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The Empyrean [Dramatized Adaptation] #2, part 1
Iron Flame (Part 1 of 2) [Dramatized Adaptation]
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.
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.
Audible Audio
Published May 17, 2024
About the author
Rebecca Yarros
68 books222k followersRebecca Yarros is a hopeless romantic and coffee addict. She is the New York Times bestselling author of over twenty novels, including Fourth Wing, The Last Letter and The Things We Leave Unfinished. She’s also the recipient of the Colorado Romance Writer’s Award of Excellence for Eyes Turned Skyward. Rebecca loves military heroes and has been blissfully married to hers for over twenty years. A mother of six, she is currently surviving the teenage years with all four of her hockey-playing sons.
Want to know about Rebecca’s next release? Check her out online at www.rebeccayarros.com.
Want to know about Rebecca’s next release? Check her out online at www.rebeccayarros.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,652 reviews
August 7, 2025
okay WAIT STOP?! why was this actually kinda good 🤭 but first off let me just say Rebecca let a girl be with her man like omg everytime I got so happy that they'd be with eachother and then you'd have them leave after five minutes like calm down its okay give...give them time I promise u ppl will actually read those parts!!
also for those who said that violet and xaden were never together im kinda giving yall a side eye bc there was a good bit of scenes where they were together and way more romantic scenes than what i was told but just saying like tho they were limited on time I for one enjoyed they cute one on one scenes ❤
lowkey im invested now and I HIGHLY RECOMMEND listening to the audiobook as a graphic version instead of reading bc its way less boring!!
so 🥂 to finding out the rest of tea in the next audiobook part 2 and hoping that no one spoils it bc thats just annoying and rude and robs ppl of their beautiful reading experience
until the next one.... 🔥🔥🔥🔥
also for those who said that violet and xaden were never together im kinda giving yall a side eye bc there was a good bit of scenes where they were together and way more romantic scenes than what i was told but just saying like tho they were limited on time I for one enjoyed they cute one on one scenes ❤
lowkey im invested now and I HIGHLY RECOMMEND listening to the audiobook as a graphic version instead of reading bc its way less boring!!
so 🥂 to finding out the rest of tea in the next audiobook part 2 and hoping that no one spoils it bc thats just annoying and rude and robs ppl of their beautiful reading experience
until the next one.... 🔥🔥🔥🔥
January 4, 2025
Hoping the dramatized adaptation and the fact it’s split into two parts makes this book more enjoyable this time around. But let’s be honest, this book could never compare to Fourth Wing.
Okay, I can confirm that splitting this into two books was 👌🏻. Part of the reasons I knocked points off the book was because it dragged and it definitely should have been two books. Well, this dramatized version is doing just that and I AM SO HERE FOR IT.
Tugged at all my heart strings. Parts of the storyline had me angry, other parts left me absolutely gutted, and I 💯 fell more and more in love with xaden and violet. Ugh, and those dragons. Forever here for ALL the banter Yarros brings to her character dynamics.
Really getting excited for onyx storm. Part two of iron flame will surely leave me distraught because that ending is absolute rubbish but hoping the audio makes the experience better.
Okay, I can confirm that splitting this into two books was 👌🏻. Part of the reasons I knocked points off the book was because it dragged and it definitely should have been two books. Well, this dramatized version is doing just that and I AM SO HERE FOR IT.
Tugged at all my heart strings. Parts of the storyline had me angry, other parts left me absolutely gutted, and I 💯 fell more and more in love with xaden and violet. Ugh, and those dragons. Forever here for ALL the banter Yarros brings to her character dynamics.
Really getting excited for onyx storm. Part two of iron flame will surely leave me distraught because that ending is absolute rubbish but hoping the audio makes the experience better.
June 30, 2025
I seriously love this series so much! 3rd time reading the 1st and 2nd books and then 2nd time reading the 3rd, they are quickly becoming comfort reads for me! I can't get enough of Violet and Xaden, and I'm so happy they kind of made up! when Violet gets caught after stealing the journals and is tortured for days and days and starts seeing Liam, I tear up every damn time! They better bring him back somehow, but I know he probably won't 😭 I also am really liking the graphic audio versions of these books! It's so cool listening to everything going on like it's a movie! It's definitely an awesome thing to do for action-packed fantasy series!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 4, 2024
Overall I am super unhappy about this graphic audio adaptation.
This is the first time that the graphic audio has IMO detracted from the overall listening experience of the book. The music that was chosen was extremely weird, to the point of being distracting at some very important moments. Some of it sounded far too modern or just strange.
The sound effects were very loud and sometimes inappropriate for whatever was going on, such as super loud footsteps while characters are supposed to be sneaking or a ton of people laughing or whispering in the background when the scene is set in a small group, etc.
The VAs did a good job, I don't really have complaints there - they've gotten a lot better about being consistent on pronouncing things which I really appreciate.
Unfortunately the editing really fell short. I listen to a lot of graphic audio and audiobooks in general and this is the first time that I really prefer the standard audio over the graphic audio. Not even Gabriel Michael can save this one.
This is the first time that the graphic audio has IMO detracted from the overall listening experience of the book. The music that was chosen was extremely weird, to the point of being distracting at some very important moments. Some of it sounded far too modern or just strange.
The sound effects were very loud and sometimes inappropriate for whatever was going on, such as super loud footsteps while characters are supposed to be sneaking or a ton of people laughing or whispering in the background when the scene is set in a small group, etc.
The VAs did a good job, I don't really have complaints there - they've gotten a lot better about being consistent on pronouncing things which I really appreciate.
Unfortunately the editing really fell short. I listen to a lot of graphic audio and audiobooks in general and this is the first time that I really prefer the standard audio over the graphic audio. Not even Gabriel Michael can save this one.
January 16, 2025
I forgot how much this feels like two books, finishing part 1 feels like a stand-alone. This was equally as epic as Fourth Wing in this dramatised audio version. I’ve never felt so immersed in an audiobook! It’s truly been the best way to recall the details ahead of Onyx Storm. Part two, let’s go!
July 15, 2024
And I knew I should have waited to listen to the graphic audio because now I have to wait for part 2 😭😭
December 29, 2024
Violet is insufferable but the voice acting made this way more palatable.
July 27, 2026
An Intense Return to Basgiath
The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💙💛💚🖤❤️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Chemistry: 🧪🧪🧪🧪
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📙📔
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌏🌏
Character development: 😋🙂😁😍🤯
Narrator(s): 🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration type: Full Cast Duet Narration – Dramatized Adaptation
Character Backgrounds and Plot Summary
Picking up after the events of Fourth Wing, Violet Sorrengail is no longer the underestimated cadet who simply wanted to survive Basgiath. She now carries dangerous knowledge about the true war while trying to balance her loyalty to her friends, her dragons Tairn and Andarna, and her complicated relationship with Xaden Riorson. What immediately stood out to me was how much pressure Violet is under from every direction. Instead of getting a chance to recover, she is thrown into even harsher training under Vice Commandant Varrish, whose obsession with breaking her creates some of the most tense moments in this first half.
The interrogation and torture sequences were especially difficult to listen to because Violet refuses to betray Xaden or reveal secrets that could cost innocent lives. Those scenes made her resilience feel earned rather than simply telling us she is strong. I also loved the quieter interactions with Tairn, whose dry humor continues to balance the darker moments, while Andarna’s growth hints that she has a much bigger role to play. On the relationship side, Violet and Xaden spend much of this installment struggling with trust after everything that was revealed at the end of the previous book. Their arguments never felt pointless to me because they stem from the impossible position they are both in, even if I wanted them to stop keeping things from each other.
Highlights and Limitations
My favorite part of this story is how Rebecca Yarros expands the world without losing sight of the characters. The scenes at Aretia gave me a much clearer picture of the rebellion and what Xaden has been fighting for all along. I also appreciated seeing Violet rely on her intelligence instead of brute strength. Whether she is piecing together historical clues or adapting during impossible training exercises, she wins by thinking differently, and that continues to be one of the series’ greatest strengths.
I loved the fact that violet still sees things from the eye of a scribe, and she constantly remembers quotes from the books she has read that deal with many of the things she goes through in her training as well as things from the history of her world. It not only adds to the world building, but also helps in developing the character of violet, who looks at things differently than many of her friends who have wanted to be dragon riders since they were young.
The dragons remain scene stealers. Every exchange involving Tairn had me smiling, especially when his sarcasm cut through the tension. The growing mystery surrounding Andarna also kept me invested because every new revelation felt meaningful rather than random.
What worked a little less for me was the pacing. Since this dramatized adaptation only covers the first half of the novel, several storylines are intentionally left unresolved. There are stretches where Violet and Xaden have similar conversations about trust more than once, and I found myself wishing their emotional progress moved a little faster before the next major crisis interrupted them. Even so, the final chapters build enough momentum that I immediately wanted to start Part 2. Many readers have also noted that splitting Iron Flame into two dramatized parts helps the pacing compared with experiencing the entire novel at once.
The one thing that I really find it so hard to understand, but is the main plot of the series is the fact that Violet’s mother and the other leaders know what the rebellion is really all about and not only do they ignore it and hide it, but they actively fight against it, when it is clear to everyone but them that they won’t be able to keep doing that for long. I know how I hope that will come to pass, I hope that when everything comes out, it puts the leaders on blast about all the secrets they have been keeping.
Narration
GraphicAudio once again delivers an incredibly immersive experience. The full cast makes every conversation feel natural, and having different actors for Violet, Xaden, Ridoc, Rhiannon, and the rest of the supporting cast gives each character a distinct personality. Gabriel Michael and Jessica Lauren Ball anchor the emotional moments beautifully, while the actors behind Tairn and the other dragons bring exactly the right amount of presence and humor.
The sound design deserves praise as well. The dragon flights, sparring matches, and magical battles have weight without drowning out the dialogue. There were a few action scenes where the background effects became a little busy, but those moments were rare and never pulled me completely out of the story. Overall, this is exactly the kind of series that benefits from a full cast production. I love the way they have a sort of echo to indicate they are talking inside their heads, to the dragons and between Xaden and Violet.
Final Opinion
I ended this first half feeling completely invested in Violet’s journey. Watching her refuse to give in despite relentless physical and emotional pressure reminded me why she is such a compelling protagonist. I cared just as much about the friendships, the dragons, and the political secrets as I did about the romance, which is not always easy for a fantasy romance series to accomplish.
While I would have liked a little more forward movement in Violet and Xaden’s relationship before this installment ended, the emotional stakes remained high from beginning to end. The dramatized adaptation amplified every victory, every heartbreaking setback, and every moment of dragon banter. If you enjoyed Fourth Wing, this adaptation is an excellent way to experience the next chapter, and I did not hesitate to queue up Part 2 as soon as the credits rolled.
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The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💙💛💚🖤❤️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Chemistry: 🧪🧪🧪🧪
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📙📔
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌏🌏
Character development: 😋🙂😁😍🤯
Narrator(s): 🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration type: Full Cast Duet Narration – Dramatized Adaptation
Character Backgrounds and Plot Summary
Picking up after the events of Fourth Wing, Violet Sorrengail is no longer the underestimated cadet who simply wanted to survive Basgiath. She now carries dangerous knowledge about the true war while trying to balance her loyalty to her friends, her dragons Tairn and Andarna, and her complicated relationship with Xaden Riorson. What immediately stood out to me was how much pressure Violet is under from every direction. Instead of getting a chance to recover, she is thrown into even harsher training under Vice Commandant Varrish, whose obsession with breaking her creates some of the most tense moments in this first half.
The interrogation and torture sequences were especially difficult to listen to because Violet refuses to betray Xaden or reveal secrets that could cost innocent lives. Those scenes made her resilience feel earned rather than simply telling us she is strong. I also loved the quieter interactions with Tairn, whose dry humor continues to balance the darker moments, while Andarna’s growth hints that she has a much bigger role to play. On the relationship side, Violet and Xaden spend much of this installment struggling with trust after everything that was revealed at the end of the previous book. Their arguments never felt pointless to me because they stem from the impossible position they are both in, even if I wanted them to stop keeping things from each other.
Highlights and Limitations
My favorite part of this story is how Rebecca Yarros expands the world without losing sight of the characters. The scenes at Aretia gave me a much clearer picture of the rebellion and what Xaden has been fighting for all along. I also appreciated seeing Violet rely on her intelligence instead of brute strength. Whether she is piecing together historical clues or adapting during impossible training exercises, she wins by thinking differently, and that continues to be one of the series’ greatest strengths.
I loved the fact that violet still sees things from the eye of a scribe, and she constantly remembers quotes from the books she has read that deal with many of the things she goes through in her training as well as things from the history of her world. It not only adds to the world building, but also helps in developing the character of violet, who looks at things differently than many of her friends who have wanted to be dragon riders since they were young.
The dragons remain scene stealers. Every exchange involving Tairn had me smiling, especially when his sarcasm cut through the tension. The growing mystery surrounding Andarna also kept me invested because every new revelation felt meaningful rather than random.
What worked a little less for me was the pacing. Since this dramatized adaptation only covers the first half of the novel, several storylines are intentionally left unresolved. There are stretches where Violet and Xaden have similar conversations about trust more than once, and I found myself wishing their emotional progress moved a little faster before the next major crisis interrupted them. Even so, the final chapters build enough momentum that I immediately wanted to start Part 2. Many readers have also noted that splitting Iron Flame into two dramatized parts helps the pacing compared with experiencing the entire novel at once.
The one thing that I really find it so hard to understand, but is the main plot of the series is the fact that Violet’s mother and the other leaders know what the rebellion is really all about and not only do they ignore it and hide it, but they actively fight against it, when it is clear to everyone but them that they won’t be able to keep doing that for long. I know how I hope that will come to pass, I hope that when everything comes out, it puts the leaders on blast about all the secrets they have been keeping.
Narration
GraphicAudio once again delivers an incredibly immersive experience. The full cast makes every conversation feel natural, and having different actors for Violet, Xaden, Ridoc, Rhiannon, and the rest of the supporting cast gives each character a distinct personality. Gabriel Michael and Jessica Lauren Ball anchor the emotional moments beautifully, while the actors behind Tairn and the other dragons bring exactly the right amount of presence and humor.
The sound design deserves praise as well. The dragon flights, sparring matches, and magical battles have weight without drowning out the dialogue. There were a few action scenes where the background effects became a little busy, but those moments were rare and never pulled me completely out of the story. Overall, this is exactly the kind of series that benefits from a full cast production. I love the way they have a sort of echo to indicate they are talking inside their heads, to the dragons and between Xaden and Violet.
Final Opinion
I ended this first half feeling completely invested in Violet’s journey. Watching her refuse to give in despite relentless physical and emotional pressure reminded me why she is such a compelling protagonist. I cared just as much about the friendships, the dragons, and the political secrets as I did about the romance, which is not always easy for a fantasy romance series to accomplish.
While I would have liked a little more forward movement in Violet and Xaden’s relationship before this installment ended, the emotional stakes remained high from beginning to end. The dramatized adaptation amplified every victory, every heartbreaking setback, and every moment of dragon banter. If you enjoyed Fourth Wing, this adaptation is an excellent way to experience the next chapter, and I did not hesitate to queue up Part 2 as soon as the credits rolled.
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July 23, 2024
they literally argue about the same thing for half the book 😭
December 27, 2024
The book overall is a 5 star for me, but I forgot how irritating Violet was.
August 18, 2024
☆ ALL THE STARS! IF I COULD GIVE THIS BOOK ONE THOUSAND STARS I WOULD! ☆
Excuse my screaming but OMG THIS WAS AMAZING I'M SO GLAD I STARTED THIS SERIES WITH THE GRAPHIC AUDIO VERSIONS I COULD CRY WITH JOY!
Tiern is still as badass and sassy as ever. Violet still has an admirable backbone to her. She's also getting just as badass as everyone else. She's great! Xaden is really getting up there on my Unofficial Book Boyfriend Ranking™ (UBBR™ for short). He's probably Top 3 at this point. I just have such a soft spot for men who unapologetically love, defend and respect their women. He will wreck his life and the world (literally) if it means she's safe and by his side.
I love how Violet's friends have now been brought into the fold somewhat. She's also managed to probably upend a good chunk of the Empyrean training forces at the academy with how she gave everyone a chance to see the truth. Her former childhood BFF (Dill, Dane, Don I hate him I still couldn't care less about his name) really grinded my gears for a good portion of this book. He still hasn't been redeemed (), but I guess he's on his way. If anyone could die in this series it would be him. My conscience wouldn't even blind twice.
Overall, this series has been FANTASTIC so far! I'm VERY excited for future books. I'm also not looking forward to the wait between releases. I'm also probably going to wait even more because I intend to read this entire series as Graphic Audio editions. We'll see if I get desperate enough to pick up the regular audiobook when the time comes.
P.S. I'd like to personally thank Graphic Audio for not cutting off Part 1 of this book at a major event/twist. My mental health really appreciates the consideration (considering where the cut-off for Book #1 Part 1 ended up being). That was the reason why I made sure to only pick this series back up until the full Book #2 was out. My heart can only take so much ♡
Excuse my screaming but OMG THIS WAS AMAZING I'M SO GLAD I STARTED THIS SERIES WITH THE GRAPHIC AUDIO VERSIONS I COULD CRY WITH JOY!
Tiern is still as badass and sassy as ever. Violet still has an admirable backbone to her. She's also getting just as badass as everyone else. She's great! Xaden is really getting up there on my Unofficial Book Boyfriend Ranking™ (UBBR™ for short). He's probably Top 3 at this point. I just have such a soft spot for men who unapologetically love, defend and respect their women. He will wreck his life and the world (literally) if it means she's safe and by his side.
I love how Violet's friends have now been brought into the fold somewhat. She's also managed to probably upend a good chunk of the Empyrean training forces at the academy with how she gave everyone a chance to see the truth. Her former childhood BFF (Dill, Dane, Don I hate him I still couldn't care less about his name) really grinded my gears for a good portion of this book. He still hasn't been redeemed (), but I guess he's on his way. If anyone could die in this series it would be him. My conscience wouldn't even blind twice.
Overall, this series has been FANTASTIC so far! I'm VERY excited for future books. I'm also not looking forward to the wait between releases. I'm also probably going to wait even more because I intend to read this entire series as Graphic Audio editions. We'll see if I get desperate enough to pick up the regular audiobook when the time comes.
P.S. I'd like to personally thank Graphic Audio for not cutting off Part 1 of this book at a major event/twist. My mental health really appreciates the consideration (considering where the cut-off for Book #1 Part 1 ended up being). That was the reason why I made sure to only pick this series back up until the full Book #2 was out. My heart can only take so much ♡
July 29, 2024
I forgot how much I enjoyed the continuation of the rider school and politics! Also liked the introduction of the new characters. There were a few things in this GraphicAudio book I didn’t care for. I found some of the sound effects didn’t match the storyline or were too loud when the voice actors were talking. Excited for the next one!
June 2, 2025
full review in part 2, but as always, the GA production was next level!
June 25, 2025
3.5 ⭐
this was actually quite dramatic if i say so myself. i hope part 2 is even better :))
I would've completed this yesterday itself but i picked this up from where i left off late at night and then fell asleep not knowing till where i had heard and the audiobook kept playing, it was over when i woke up 😭🤣
so i had to find my last mark and then continue listening lol.
some background noises are so loud that I had to really concentrate to hear what the person saying
the voice acting is cool though
the smut bhahahaha, ya there are some interesting sounds to say the least.
this was actually quite dramatic if i say so myself. i hope part 2 is even better :))
I would've completed this yesterday itself but i picked this up from where i left off late at night and then fell asleep not knowing till where i had heard and the audiobook kept playing, it was over when i woke up 😭🤣
so i had to find my last mark and then continue listening lol.
some background noises are so loud that I had to really concentrate to hear what the person saying
the voice acting is cool though
the smut bhahahaha, ya there are some interesting sounds to say the least.
August 4, 2026
Well that was definitely something…
May 29, 2024
part 1 is SO GOOD. the politics, the tension, the expanding world MWAH🤌🏼
xaden riorson i remain on my knees for you 🧎🏻♀️
xaden riorson i remain on my knees for you 🧎🏻♀️
October 14, 2025
I know this was only part 1, but so far it's even better than Fourth Wing, so I'm not sure what all the complaints were about... Guess I will find out next month!
December 13, 2024
♥️ I love these books
♥️ I love the GA the sound effects and the full cast!
Gah the dragons and the special effects in this book are amazing.
So why the low rating?
CAUSE THEY BUTCHERED THE BOOK!
WHY DID THEY EDIT SO MUCH FROM THE ORIGINAL BOOKS?!! LIKE SOOOO MUCH!
And important stuff to. Dialog and actions and tells from the characters that are SO IMPORTANT to GET THE FULL FEEL AND UNDERSTANDING of the characters.
I swear every other paragraph has pretty important edits out of it l!
Way to destroy such an amazing book and all the little things that make it special.
Like WTF!
Fourth wing is the same.
Highly disappointed.
The books themselves and the cast and special effects get 5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
♥️ I love the GA the sound effects and the full cast!
Gah the dragons and the special effects in this book are amazing.
So why the low rating?
CAUSE THEY BUTCHERED THE BOOK!
WHY DID THEY EDIT SO MUCH FROM THE ORIGINAL BOOKS?!! LIKE SOOOO MUCH!
And important stuff to. Dialog and actions and tells from the characters that are SO IMPORTANT to GET THE FULL FEEL AND UNDERSTANDING of the characters.
I swear every other paragraph has pretty important edits out of it l!
Way to destroy such an amazing book and all the little things that make it special.
Like WTF!
Fourth wing is the same.
Highly disappointed.
The books themselves and the cast and special effects get 5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
December 4, 2024
Vertinimas už audio 5⭐️, šiaip iron flame 3⭐️🫢🫢
January 11, 2025
Rating ~3.5
I had a much better time listening to this than I did attempting to read it last year. Now I’m off to finish the second part before Onyx Storm comes out 😆
I had a much better time listening to this than I did attempting to read it last year. Now I’m off to finish the second part before Onyx Storm comes out 😆
July 29, 2025
Iron Flame already had you gasping, crying, or feral-annotating your Kindle, then the GraphicAudio edition takes that emotional chaos and cranks it up to eleven. This isn’t just an audiobook, it’s an experience. Explosions, dragon roars, heart-stopping battles, raw emotion… I felt every second in my bones. It was a whole movie in my ears and how I loved it.
Hearing Violet, Xaden, Tairn, Andarna, the other side characters, all of them, voiced by a talented cast brings their personalities to life in a way that’s almost surreal. Xaden’s deep, broody voice? Wrecked me. Violet’s fear, rage, hope? Goosebumps. Tairn’s voice? ICONIC. Andarna’s playfulness? Adorable. The moment they speak telepathically? Absolute chills. You can feel the power of the bond in a way that’s unique to this format. The actors don’t just read, they live these characters.
The sound design is INSANE. You can hear sword fights, lightning strikes, screaming wyverns, ripping wings through the air, whispered betrayals and echoing halls. The immersive sound effects turn every scene into a cinematic moment. It adds tension, urgency, and visceral weight to the story, especially the action-heavy chapters.
Iron Flame is an emotional rollercoaster and here the feels hit you even harder. The heartbreaks, the near-deaths, the betrayals… they sting more when you hear Violet crying or a character’s voice break in real-time. I already knew what was coming, and I still sobbed.
The pacing feels like a movie. Even though the book is long, the GraphicAudio format keeps it moving. The production adds rhythm and momentum that makes even dialogue-heavy scenes feel alive. It’s genuinely addicting. They cut some parts of the writing to make it more fluid, though, so it's not unabridged. If that bothers you, do as I did and listen to it while reading the actual book so as not to miss any single part.
Noteworthy though, you’ll need to be fully focused. This isn’t a “listen while you do chores” kind of audiobook. It demands your full attention (and it deserves it). Make sure you use headphones. Speakers don’t do it justice, you want to feel those dragon wingbeats in your soul. Trust me!
Finally, the GraphicAudio edition of Iron Flame is a masterclass in immersive storytelling. It’s intense, electric, and emotionally shattering in the most satisfying way. Whether you’re rereading or diving in for the first time, this version will make you fall in love with the story all over again, or ten times harder. I got introduced to Graphic Audio through Fourth Wing and let me tell you, I was addicted as soon as chapter 1, I live to find new productions of books I've already read to reread or new ones to enjoy. It's a one way trip.
Hearing Violet, Xaden, Tairn, Andarna, the other side characters, all of them, voiced by a talented cast brings their personalities to life in a way that’s almost surreal. Xaden’s deep, broody voice? Wrecked me. Violet’s fear, rage, hope? Goosebumps. Tairn’s voice? ICONIC. Andarna’s playfulness? Adorable. The moment they speak telepathically? Absolute chills. You can feel the power of the bond in a way that’s unique to this format. The actors don’t just read, they live these characters.
The sound design is INSANE. You can hear sword fights, lightning strikes, screaming wyverns, ripping wings through the air, whispered betrayals and echoing halls. The immersive sound effects turn every scene into a cinematic moment. It adds tension, urgency, and visceral weight to the story, especially the action-heavy chapters.
Iron Flame is an emotional rollercoaster and here the feels hit you even harder. The heartbreaks, the near-deaths, the betrayals… they sting more when you hear Violet crying or a character’s voice break in real-time. I already knew what was coming, and I still sobbed.
The pacing feels like a movie. Even though the book is long, the GraphicAudio format keeps it moving. The production adds rhythm and momentum that makes even dialogue-heavy scenes feel alive. It’s genuinely addicting. They cut some parts of the writing to make it more fluid, though, so it's not unabridged. If that bothers you, do as I did and listen to it while reading the actual book so as not to miss any single part.
Noteworthy though, you’ll need to be fully focused. This isn’t a “listen while you do chores” kind of audiobook. It demands your full attention (and it deserves it). Make sure you use headphones. Speakers don’t do it justice, you want to feel those dragon wingbeats in your soul. Trust me!
Finally, the GraphicAudio edition of Iron Flame is a masterclass in immersive storytelling. It’s intense, electric, and emotionally shattering in the most satisfying way. Whether you’re rereading or diving in for the first time, this version will make you fall in love with the story all over again, or ten times harder. I got introduced to Graphic Audio through Fourth Wing and let me tell you, I was addicted as soon as chapter 1, I live to find new productions of books I've already read to reread or new ones to enjoy. It's a one way trip.
January 24, 2025
3.5 I love you and hate you all at the same time stars
I'm really torn on this series. On the one hand it is really readable. On the other hand the reader is sometimes asked to accept stuff, just cuz, and Violet the MC occasionally is just remarkably dumb. So much so that I almost didn't make it past the first 100 pages because I was irritated with her.
Violet has just found out (spoiler for Fourth Wing) , and she throws this big fit over it. To her it is just a huge betrayal that she wasn't trusted with the secrets. Which I found utterly ridiculous since one, they weren't just Xaden's secrets and two Violet's mother is the General so why would you give her information like that.
But it seems there needed to be some extra drama or tension between the love interest so we had to deal with this manufactured drama...ugh. But once we got over that eye rolling nonsense there was some really cool fighting and war stuff going on. Xaden and Violet have to deal with being separated at times to since Xaden has graduated and is part of the war while Violet is just in her second year.
I think what really sells the series for me so far is wanting to know more about the Dragons and the Empyrean. I love how the bonding works and I'm usually a fan of the fated mates tropes so a lot of that is working for me. Tairn is a fantastic character and I enjoy his viciousness in the protection of Violet and Andarna. Andarna's transformation from a feather tail into the color she will be as an adult and her "teenage" years are pretty funny at times and eye rolling at other times. There really was no in between.
A few items to put in the plus column for this book is the expansion of the world building. We get a clear view of who the enemy is and what they are capable of. Character development, when Violet isn't being completely stupid over some stupid secrets, she becomes a bad ass in some other ways. Introduction of the infantry and their roles in the war along with the Griffin's and some of their riders. I liked learning more about the greater world outside of the school for dragon riders. Development of the General and Violet's relationship as well gave the reader some deeper insight to the actions of the general and a very touching moment at one point in the book. I enjoyed learning more about the scribes lives as well and the true reasons why the general sent Violet to threshing.
The stakes are higher and the rebellion/revolution is on. Violet is put through some incredibly difficult situations and targeted not just because of who her mother is but also because she and Xaden are an item. Delving into Xaden's origin story and the burden placed on him to protect all of the children from the rebellion what a huge addition to the overall story.
A few of the items in the minus column are Violets "I need to know all the secrets" mentality. It was really tiresome. The continued schooling that killed off rider after rider. So many deaths that felt hollow. The length of the book. It is almost 40% longer than the first book. I think there were some things that could have been streamlined. It almost felt like 2 separate books.
The ending had a very nice twist that I should have seen coming but didn't. It will be interesting to see what comes of it in the next book. While I saw most of the twists coming the one involving Xaden at the end I did not, so well done there Ms. Yaros.
Overall, I can see why so many people seem to like this series. I will continue on but hope that some of the manufactured tension is more believable and that we get a look at the dragon culture and how the Empyrean really works. Dragon politics, I want more.
Narration:
Well this is a full cast and that just adds to ever enjoyment factor for this series. Sometimes the special effects in the background can get a little overpowering. Especially in the middle of battles. But overall having different actors for all the main voices adds so much to the overall impact of the narration. Graphic Audio always does a great job with all of their adaptations and this one is no different.
I'm really torn on this series. On the one hand it is really readable. On the other hand the reader is sometimes asked to accept stuff, just cuz, and Violet the MC occasionally is just remarkably dumb. So much so that I almost didn't make it past the first 100 pages because I was irritated with her.
Violet has just found out (spoiler for Fourth Wing) , and she throws this big fit over it. To her it is just a huge betrayal that she wasn't trusted with the secrets. Which I found utterly ridiculous since one, they weren't just Xaden's secrets and two Violet's mother is the General so why would you give her information like that.
“Stop bringing logic into an emotional argument.”
But it seems there needed to be some extra drama or tension between the love interest so we had to deal with this manufactured drama...ugh. But once we got over that eye rolling nonsense there was some really cool fighting and war stuff going on. Xaden and Violet have to deal with being separated at times to since Xaden has graduated and is part of the war while Violet is just in her second year.
“The first year is when some of us lose our lives. The second year is when the rest of us lose our humanity.”
I think what really sells the series for me so far is wanting to know more about the Dragons and the Empyrean. I love how the bonding works and I'm usually a fan of the fated mates tropes so a lot of that is working for me. Tairn is a fantastic character and I enjoy his viciousness in the protection of Violet and Andarna. Andarna's transformation from a feather tail into the color she will be as an adult and her "teenage" years are pretty funny at times and eye rolling at other times. There really was no in between.
A few items to put in the plus column for this book is the expansion of the world building. We get a clear view of who the enemy is and what they are capable of. Character development, when Violet isn't being completely stupid over some stupid secrets, she becomes a bad ass in some other ways. Introduction of the infantry and their roles in the war along with the Griffin's and some of their riders. I liked learning more about the greater world outside of the school for dragon riders. Development of the General and Violet's relationship as well gave the reader some deeper insight to the actions of the general and a very touching moment at one point in the book. I enjoyed learning more about the scribes lives as well and the true reasons why the general sent Violet to threshing.
The stakes are higher and the rebellion/revolution is on. Violet is put through some incredibly difficult situations and targeted not just because of who her mother is but also because she and Xaden are an item. Delving into Xaden's origin story and the burden placed on him to protect all of the children from the rebellion what a huge addition to the overall story.
A few of the items in the minus column are Violets "I need to know all the secrets" mentality. It was really tiresome. The continued schooling that killed off rider after rider. So many deaths that felt hollow. The length of the book. It is almost 40% longer than the first book. I think there were some things that could have been streamlined. It almost felt like 2 separate books.
The ending had a very nice twist that I should have seen coming but didn't. It will be interesting to see what comes of it in the next book. While I saw most of the twists coming the one involving Xaden at the end I did not, so well done there Ms. Yaros.
Overall, I can see why so many people seem to like this series. I will continue on but hope that some of the manufactured tension is more believable and that we get a look at the dragon culture and how the Empyrean really works. Dragon politics, I want more.
Narration:
Well this is a full cast and that just adds to ever enjoyment factor for this series. Sometimes the special effects in the background can get a little overpowering. Especially in the middle of battles. But overall having different actors for all the main voices adds so much to the overall impact of the narration. Graphic Audio always does a great job with all of their adaptations and this one is no different.
January 21, 2025
So freaking good. I don’t have enough words to express and I’m immediately going to dive into part 2. Gosh this made me feel all of the things and all of the emotions so well.. and so far it’s my favorite graphic audio I’ve listened to thus far.
The scenes with Liam.. when Violet was getting tortured by Varrish… I mean it was just so well done. I’m still having trouble putting all of my thoughts in order, I just loved it.
I do have one thing that bothers me and it is purely a ME problem. The same voice actor, Gabriel Michael (I think is his name) that voices Xaden, also voices Lucien in the ACOTAR series and I had a hard time separating the two characters. My thoughts kept going back to Lucien’s character a lot and I had to force myself to not go there lol. But, still it was great and really well done!
(Also ETA: the spice was goooood. 🌶️)
The scenes with Liam.. when Violet was getting tortured by Varrish… I mean it was just so well done. I’m still having trouble putting all of my thoughts in order, I just loved it.
I do have one thing that bothers me and it is purely a ME problem. The same voice actor, Gabriel Michael (I think is his name) that voices Xaden, also voices Lucien in the ACOTAR series and I had a hard time separating the two characters. My thoughts kept going back to Lucien’s character a lot and I had to force myself to not go there lol. But, still it was great and really well done!
(Also ETA: the spice was goooood. 🌶️)
May 28, 2024
I really love graphic audios. Its like a movie in my brain
October 1, 2025
Yall know I love me some iron flame!!
I am eating up these graphic audios. I don’t think audiobooks should be allowed to not be graphic audio
I am eating up these graphic audios. I don’t think audiobooks should be allowed to not be graphic audio
August 28, 2025
So good! Really loved everything about this part of the book. The progress, the relationships and friendships.
June 18, 2026
Ha sido un viaje lo de la dramatización con las voces de diferentes personajes y los efectos de sonido. Es totalmente como ver una película en tu cabeza.
Lo recomiendo totalmente si eres capaz de entender el inglés. La verdad es que en general pronuncian muy bien y se les entiende perfectamente, incluso puede ser divertido seguir el texto mientras escuchas.
Me ha gustado más esta relectura que la primera vez que lo leí en papel, no sé si por la forma en que te envuelve la historia con la dramatización o qué.
Voy a escuchar la segunda parte porque se ha quedado ahí en toda la mitad y aunque ya sé qué pasa, quiero escucharlo.
Lo recomiendo totalmente si eres capaz de entender el inglés. La verdad es que en general pronuncian muy bien y se les entiende perfectamente, incluso puede ser divertido seguir el texto mientras escuchas.
Me ha gustado más esta relectura que la primera vez que lo leí en papel, no sé si por la forma en que te envuelve la historia con la dramatización o qué.
Voy a escuchar la segunda parte porque se ha quedado ahí en toda la mitad y aunque ya sé qué pasa, quiero escucharlo.
December 31, 2024
is it silly of me to give the physical book only 4 stars but give this 5 stars?? i feel like i enjoyed listening to this more than physically reading it. i just KNOW part two is gonna get me so heated though, but that is when the TEA happens.
nevertheless, what a good way to end 2024☺️
nevertheless, what a good way to end 2024☺️
January 7, 2025
Chills. Tears. Lets goo.
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