So, picture this: I’m scrolling through TikTok, minding my own business, when suddenly, bam, my For You page is flooded with this book called “Fourth Wing.” It’s like, every other video was about this dragon-riding, war college drama. I’m talking full-on obsession central. All my friends were freaking out about it, throwing theories around like confetti, and counting down the days till the sequel dropped.
I mean, who wouldn’t be obsessed? The author, Rebecca Yarros, basically admitted she’s a total fantasy nerd. She told Today, “I love dragons, okay? Who doesn’t? We’re all fantasy girlies, let’s be real.” And can we talk about the whole enemies-to-lovers, morally gray hero thing? It’s like she knows exactly what we want.
Now that the sequel, “Iron Flame,” is out, I’m in this weird book hangover. If you’re also suffering, don’t worry, I’ve got you. I’ve rounded up some books that might scratch that “Fourth Wing” itch. Think new adult vibes, enemies-to-lovers drama, dragons, magic schools, and all that good stuff. But before that, let us get to know the person behind the book.
Rebecca Yarros: A Deeper Dive
Rebecca Yarros is more than just a bestselling author; she’s a storyteller who has captured the hearts of millions with her ability to create worlds that feel both familiar and extraordinary.
A Military Wife and Mother: Behind the pen of this talented writer is a dedicated military wife and mother of six. Her personal experiences have undoubtedly shaped her characters and their journeys.
A Passion for History: With a degree in European history, Yarros brings a unique perspective to her storytelling. Her historical knowledge often serves as a rich foundation for her fantastical worlds.
A Champion for Children: Beyond her literary accomplishments, Yarros is a co-founder of the nonprofit OneOctober, dedicated to improving the lives of children in the foster system. This humanitarian aspect adds another layer of depth to her already compelling author persona.
Synopsis:
Fourth Wing follows Violet Sorrengail, a young woman from a prestigious military family. Despite her physical fragility, she’s determined to defy expectations and become a dragon rider like her mother. Forced into the brutal training academy, Violet must overcome her limitations and prove her worth while navigating a world of intense competition, dangerous rivals, and forbidden attraction.
Themes:
- Overcoming adversity: Violet’s journey is a testament to resilience and determination.
- Finding one’s identity: She grapples with the pressure to live up to her family’s legacy and discovering her own path.
- Love and loyalty: The complexities of relationships, both romantic and platonic, are explored in depth.
- Power and corruption: The story delves into the darker aspects of the military and political landscape.
Tone:
The tone of Fourth Wing is intense, gritty, and often dark. It’s a world filled with challenges, both physical and emotional. While there are moments of hope and camaraderie, the overall atmosphere is one of survival and struggle.
Age Appropriateness:
Fourth Wing is definitely intended for mature audiences. It contains explicit sexual content, violence, and mature themes that may not be suitable for younger readers. It is categorized as New Adult fiction, which typically targets readers aged 18 and older.
Expanding Her Works
The Empyrean Series
This series has skyrocketed Rebecca Yarros to fame, introducing readers to a world of dragons, military academies, and forbidden love.
- Fourth Wing: This is the first book in the series and introduces readers to Violet Sorrengail, a young woman determined to become a dragon rider. It’s a thrilling tale of friendship, love, and the challenges of a rigorous military training.
- Iron Flame: The sequel to Fourth Wing, this book continues Violet’s journey as she navigates the complexities of power, war, and her growing relationship with Xander.
The Flight & Glory Series
A departure from the fantastical world of dragons, this series offers contemporary romance with a military backdrop.
- Full Measures: The series opener introduces readers to the world of military pilots. It’s a story of love, loss, and the challenges of military life.
- Eyes Turned Skyward: This book continues the story, exploring deeper into the characters’ lives and relationships.
- Beyond What is Given: The third installment delves further into the complexities of love, loyalty, and sacrifice.
- Hallowed Ground: The fourth and final book in the series brings the series to a satisfying conclusion.
The Renegades Series
This series takes readers on a thrilling adventure filled with mystery, suspense, and unexpected twists.
- Wilder: The first book introduces a world of secrets, danger, and a strong female protagonist.
- Nova: The second book deepens the mystery and introduces new challenges for the characters.
- Rebel: The third book brings the series to a thrilling climax.
Standalone Novels
In addition to her series, Yarros has also penned several standalone novels:
- The Last Letter: A poignant story about love, loss, and the power of human connection.
- The Things We Leave Unfinished: This novel explores themes of family, forgiveness, and second chances.
- Reason to Believe: A story of hope, resilience, and the power of love.
Books Similar to “Fourth Wing”
Book Club Recommendation
The Priory of the Orange Tree (The Roots of Chaos) by Samantha Shannon Queen Sabran’s tenuous hold on power and the secret priestess Ead protecting her make for an epic fantasy with rich world-building.
Immortal Longings (Flesh & False Gods 1) by Chloe Gong Inspired by Shakespeare’s “Antony and Cleopatra,” this novel features Princess Calla entering a deadly contest to overthrow her uncle, King Kasa. A romance amid a deadly backdrop—just like “Fourth Wing.”
Divine Rivals (Letters of Enchantment, 1) by Rebecca Ross A #BookTok favorite, this epic rivals-to-lovers fantasy focuses on two journalists as a war among the gods breaks out.
The Serpent and the Wings of Night (Crowns of Nyaxia) by Carissa Broadbent Oraya, the adopted human daughter of a vampire king, enters a legendary tournament. A steamy romantasy with a great enemies-to-lovers plot.
An Unkindness of Magicians by Kat Howard In New York City’s magical houses, a sudden Turning throws the magical world into chaos. A dark and intriguing tale.
Reddit Suggestion
From Blood and Ash (Blood and Ash Series) by Jennifer L. Armentrout Poppy, chosen from birth to save the kingdom, has her beliefs challenged by Hawke, a guard assigned to her.
A Deadly Education (The Scholomance) by Naomi Novik A dark school of magic where young magicians must fight monsters to survive until graduation.
Throne of Glass (Throne of Glass, 1) by Sarah J. Maas Assassin Caleana must serve the kingdom for three years in exchange for her freedom. An epic fantasy series with eight books.
The Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi by Shannon Chakraborty Set in medieval Oman, Amina, a retired pirate, is pressured to take one last adventure to rescue a young girl.
Black Leopard, Red Wolf (The Dark Star Trilogy Book 1) by Marlon James Inspired by African mythology, Tracker’s quest to find a mysterious boy makes for an innovative fantasy novel.
Fireborne (The Aurelian Cycle 1) by Rosaria Munda Childhood friends Annie and Lee compete to become dragonriders amidst political intrigue and emotional drama.
Best of #BookTok
Daughter of the Drowned Empire by Frankie Diane Mallis Lady Lyriana must survive warrior training after revealing her power in a ceremony. A blend of magic, fantasy, and slow-burn romance.
Dragonflight (The Dragonriders of Pern, 1) by Anne McCaffrey A classic dragon fantasy series where humans and dragons form telepathic bonds.
Red Queen (Red Queen, 1) by Victoria Aveyard In a world where social hierarchy is determined by blood, Mare navigates the world of the Silver elite.
Eragon (Inheritance, Book 1) by Christopher Paolini The classic dragon fantasy series begins with 15-year-old Eragon discovering a dragon egg.
A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas Another #BookTok favorite, this series blends romance and fantasy in a binge-worthy read.
Iron Flame (The Empyrean Book 2) by Rebecca Yarros The sequel to “Fourth Wing” is a must-read for fans eager to continue Violet’s journey.
Would you like to know more about a specific book or series? Or perhaps you’re interested in a particular theme or character?
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