By Staff Writer: Kayla Reichenbach
After months of anticipation, “Onyx Storm,” the third book in Rebecca Yarros’ bestselling Empyrean series, was released on Jan. 21, 2025, but fans are already bracing for another long wait. Speculation is swirling that the fourth installment may take longer to arrive than other books in the series have, leaving readers reeling from yet another cliffhanger.
The series, which began with “Fourth Wing” and “Iron Flame,” follows Violet Sorrengail, a physically fragile young woman forced into Basgiath War College’s brutal dragon-rider training. As she fights to survive, she uncovers dangerous secrets about her kingdom and forms a complex bond with Wingleader Xaden Riorson.
Both “Iron Flame” and “Onyx Storm” ended with shocking twists, sparking debate across social media. Portales resident and avid reader Kelsea Toombs shared her reaction to the ambiguous ending of “Onyx Storm.”
“I’m confused for sure,” Toombs said. “I don’t understand what happened at all!”
When asked if the ending set up the next book well, she added, “Yes! There’s tons of explaining Rebecca Yarros needs to do! I am definitely excited to find out what’s going on.”
For now, fans can only speculate and hope Violet’s next chapter doesn’t take too long to be published.