Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros
Cliffhanger City
Struggling to gather my thoughts after that ending – it’s left me in quite a whirlwind. Admittedly, it’s been a few weeks since I turned the final page of Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros. Yet, despite the passage of time, I’ve found myself unable to muster the energy to pen a review devoid of my frustration with its conclusion. However, I’ll strive to offer a balanced perspective.
Let me begin by acknowledging that Iron Flame serves as a commendable sequel to Fourth Wing, earning a solid 4-star rating akin to its predecessor. I approached this book with deliberate pacing, opting to immerse myself fully by simultaneously listening to the audio version while reading. Additionally, a physical copy of Iron Flame is needed to grace my shelf.
The dynamic between Violet and Xaden, while captivating, also incited a fair share of exasperation. Their love is undeniable, yet their constant skirmishes grew wearisome. Amidst the fiery passion, the abundance of arguments overshadowed the narrative’s enjoyment. While a couple of discussions about trust would suffice, the repetitive nature of their exchanges became draining, detracting from the story’s allure.
Furthermore, my admiration for Violet waned throughout the novel. In Fourth Wing, she epitomized strength and resilience, employing her intellect to navigate challenges. However, in Iron Flame, her character seemed diminished, particularly in her inability to grasp Xaden’s predicament. Despite his efforts to elucidate his constraints, she remained obstinate, a trait that proved irksome and diminished her appeal.
Violet’s vacillation regarding her role compounded my frustrations. Oscillating between self-blame and a sense of inadequacy, she struggled to find equilibrium. While burdened with immense responsibilities, her inconsistency and emotional volatility detracted from her character’s depth, at times rendering her portrayal somewhat grating.
The narrative’s exposition occasionally overwhelmed, bogging down the initial chapters. While essential for world-building, the deluge of information proved taxing, leading to a sluggish start that hindered engagement.
However, amidst these criticisms, Iron Flame’s merits endure. Its intricate plot and unique storytelling captivated my imagination, ensuring my investment in the characters and their tumultuous journey. Despite my grievances, the novel’s twists and turns continue to intrigue, underscoring its compelling narrative.
As a final plea to the author, I implore an end to cliffhangers, as they only compound the emotional toll of prolonged anticipation
