Fourth Wing: An honest Book Review

Recently, I made a long trek by car from Wyoming to Texas and binge-listened to the audiobook "Fourth Wing" by Rebecca Yarros. I had downloaded it a while back but just couldn't really get into it. Nothing like 1200 miles of not a lot to look at... to get me to concentrate on the storyline! While it wasn't as cerebral as I had hoped, I was hooked! Read more about it, with no spoilers, by clicking below.

"Fourth Wing" throws you into the world of twenty-year-old Violet Sorrengail, who expected to live a quiet life among books in the Scribe Quadrant. Instead, her tough-as-nails mom, who also happens to be the commanding general, forces her into the elite dragon riders of Navarre. Talk about a career change!

Violet’s journey is anything but easy. She’s smaller and more fragile than her peers, making her a target in a world where dragons don’t just reject the weak—they incinerate them. With fewer dragons willing to bond than there are cadets, the competition is fierce and deadly. If that’s not enough, she’s got Xaden Riorson, a ruthless wingleader who loathes her for her mother’s actions, breathing down her neck.

Survival at Basgiath War College means relying on her wits and determination. Violet’s character growth is a highlight as she transitions from a bookish underdog to a tenacious dragon rider. The romance angle, particularly her connection with Xaden, adds some spice, though it can feel a bit too convenient at times. Their dragons’ bond keeps them close, which makes for some interesting dynamics.

The plot is fast-paced and full of tension, keeping you on the edge of your seat as Violet faces life-or-death trials. The outside world’s war and the crumbling protective wards add to the stakes, and there’s a sense of mystery with the leadership possibly hiding something sinister.

I very much enjoyed the dragon characters in this story. They're presented as not just mounts for battle; they are intelligent beings with their own personalities and preferences. They can communicate telepathically with their riders and have a strong sense of loyalty once a bond is formed. However, they are also fiercely independent and will not hesitate to incinerate those they consider weak or unfit, making the process of becoming a dragon rider incredibly dangerous and competitive.

In "Fourth Wing," the four major dragon characters are:

1. Tairn: Tairn is one of the most significant dragons in the story. He is known for his immense size, strength, and intimidating presence. Tairn bonds with Violet Sorrengail, defying expectations due to her small stature and frail health. His bond with Violet is crucial to her survival and success as a dragon rider.

2. Sgaeyl: Sgaeyl is another prominent dragon in the narrative, known for her beauty and fierceness. She is bonded with Xaden Riorson, the powerful and ruthless wingleader. Sgaeyl’s presence emphasizes the strength and dominance of Xaden within the Riders Quadrant.

3. Andarna: Andarna is a younger and smaller dragon compared to the others, but she plays a vital role in the story. She forms an unexpected bond with Violet, adding complexity and depth to Violet’s character and her journey as a dragon rider. Andarna’s unique abilities and personality make her a key player in the unfolding events.

4. Karna: Karna is a formidable dragon known for her fiery temperament and loyalty. She is bonded with another influential rider at Basgiath War College, showcasing the diversity and dynamic nature of the dragons within the story. Karna's interactions and the challenges she faces highlight the perilous and competitive environment of the dragon riders.

These dragons, each with their distinct personalities and traits, are integral to the plot of "Fourth Wing," shaping the destinies of their riders and influencing the outcomes of the conflicts within the story.

Sure, "Fourth Wing" isn’t perfect. The writing has its rough spots, and the story leans heavily on the “chosen one” trope. Plus, the logic behind the War College’s brutal cadet-killing methods can be a bit hard to swallow. But if you’re in the mood for a fun, thrilling ride with dragons, romance, and plenty of action, this book is a great pick.

So, if you’re ready for an adventure that’s more about the ride than the destination, give "Fourth Wing" a try. You might just find yourself hooked, with or without that long drive!