Darci's Review 

This is a stunning sequel to Fourth Wing. Yarros delivered on her world-building in the first novel, setting up the political boundaries and magic systems that continue on through Iron Flame. This sequel is where Yarros delves into her character development. Many relationships in Violet’s world are tested, from her romance with Xaden, to her family bonds with Mira and General Sorrengail, and especially her friendships between Rhiannon and the Iron Squad. Yarros also unveils more details about the history of the continent and the Empyrean, which entwines with the upcoming battle Violet and Xaden face. The Iron Squad have survived the dangers of first year, but will they endure the torture of second year? I am excited to see where Yarros brings the story next.

Publisher's Review

From the NUMBER ONE SUNDAY TIMES BESTELLING author, Rebecca Yarros, comes the eagerly anticipated sequel to TIKTOK SENSATION and RADIO TWO BOOK CLUB pick Fourth Wing . . .

"The first year is when some of us lose our lives. The second year is when the rest of us lose our humanity." - Xaden Riorson

'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 already wondering how she'll get through. 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 might be weaker and frailer than everyone else's, she still has her wits, and a will of iron. And leadership is forgetting the most important lesson Basgiath has taught her: Dragon riders make their own rules.
But a determination to survive won't be enough this year.
Because Violet knows the real secret hidden for centuries at Basgiath War College - and nothing, not even dragon fire, may be enough to save them in the end.'