Review By: Sara Tripp
Published: 2023
Series: The Empyrean #2
Genre(s): Young Adult, Fantasy, New Adult
Audience: Grades 12; Adult
Content Warnings: Death, dismemberment, torture
Goodreads Link: Iron Flame
Publisher’s Summary:
“The first year is when some of us lose our lives. The second year is when the rest of us lose our humanity.” Everyone expected Violet Sorrengail to die during her first year at Basgiath War College—Violet included. But Threshing was only the first impossible test meant to weed out the weak-willed, the unworthy, and the unlucky. Now the real training begins, and Violet’s wondering how she’ll get through it. It’s not just that it’s grueling and maliciously brutal, or even that it’s designed to stretch the riders’ capacity for pain beyond endurance. It’s the new vice commandant, who’s made it his personal mission to teach Violet exactly how powerless she is—unless she betrays the man she loves.
Although Violet’s body is weaker and frailer than everyone else’s, she has her wits—and a will of iron. Leadership forgets the most important lesson Basgiath taught her: Dragon riders make their own rules. But determination to survive won’t be enough this year, because Violet knows the secret hidden for centuries at Basgiath War College—and nothing, not even dragon fire, may be enough to save them in the end.
Review:
This book is a whirlwind of twists, surprises, and interconnected plotlines that demand your full attention. It is the kind of story where readers may find themselves rereading pages to catch every detail.
The world building is rich and immersive, pulling you deeper into the high stakes lives of the characters. The author balances intense action with emotional character moments, revealing new layers and hidden motivations with each chapter. The gradual way information is revealed adds to the suspense and makes the characters feel incredibly real.
One of the most compelling aspects of Iron Flame is how long it lingers in your mind. The reviewer immediately sought out online discussions to unpack the ending, theories, and subtle clues woven throughout the story. With so much detail packed into every chapter, a reread feels almost necessary.
Be prepared for a major cliffhanger that leaves you full of questions. Fortunately, book three will arrive in January 2025.
This is an excellent choice for students who love intricate, character driven fantasy filled with mystery, action, and heart. It is a thrilling, rewarding read that will leave readers eager for the next installment.
