Midnight Release: Onyx Storm a Hit for Yarros
Okay, so you guys KNOW I'm a huge fan of Rebecca Yarros. I mean, HUGE. Like, I've reread Fourth Wing more times than I care to admit (don't judge!). So, when Onyx Storm, the highly anticipated sequel to Fourth Wing, dropped at midnight, I was, like, a bouncing-off-the-walls kind of excited. Seriously, I'd pre-ordered it months ago and even set an alarm. I know, I know…nerd alert! But honestly, the hype was REAL.
The Midnight Madness (and My Near-Disaster)
My plan was perfect. Cozy pajamas, a mug of hot chocolate (with extra marshmallows, obviously), and my comfy reading chair. I even charged my Kindle – a rookie mistake I learned from past midnight book launches! I remember one time I was so engrossed in another release I'd forgotten to charge my device. It died halfway through a cliffhanger...talk about a nightmare!
But then…the unexpected happened. My internet went down. Like, completely kaput. Five minutes to midnight, and I'm staring at a blank screen. Panic set in, people! I tried everything—restarting the router, checking the modem, even whispering sweet nothings to my internet provider (don't ask).
Finally, I ended up using my phone's data, praying it wouldn't cut out before I could finish downloading the ebook. Talk about a stressful start to my reading experience! I was sweating bullets, seriously.
Pro Tip #1: Check your internet connection BEFORE the release. This sounds obvious, but seriously, it's a game-changer.
Into the Storm: My Thoughts on Onyx Storm
Once I finally got my hands (or eyes, rather) on the book, all was forgiven. The story picks up right where Fourth Wing left off, and let me tell you – the emotional rollercoaster is even MORE intense this time around. We get deeper into Violet Sorrengail’s journey, seeing her grapple with the aftermath of the Navion tournament and her burgeoning relationship with Xaden Riorson, the hot, brooding rider who stole my heart in the first book (and possibly yours, too!).
There were so many moments that legit made me tear up; Yarros doesn't shy away from exploring complex themes of relationships, personal growth, and the consequences of one's actions. But she also injects a healthy dose of humor to balance things out, keeping things fresh and engaging throughout. There’s something for everyone. It's got action, romance, and enough angst to make your heart pound.
Pro Tip #2: Pre-order! Seriously, do it. This eliminates the stress of a midnight-release download battle and allows you to just dive right into the story from the minute the clock strikes twelve. It helps the authors out too!
Why Onyx Storm is a Must-Read
This isn't just a sequel; it's a masterclass in world-building and character development. Yarros expands the world of Navarre, revealing even more of its intricacies and secrets. She successfully builds suspense for the third book. I’m already counting down the days.
If you loved Fourth Wing, Onyx Storm is a must-read, hands down. If you haven't read Fourth Wing yet…well, what are you waiting for?! Seriously, add it to your TBR pile immediately. This is my personal favorite fantasy romance series, but to each their own!
Pro Tip #3: Be prepared for an emotional journey. Yarros doesn't pull any punches and will make you cry, laugh, and feel all the feels.
Overall, my midnight release experience was a bit of a nail-biter thanks to my internet woes, but it was totally worth it. The book itself was simply amazing, living up to and even exceeding the hype. Onyx Storm is a phenomenal sequel, and I can't recommend it highly enough. Happy reading! Let me know your thoughts in the comments!