5 Things That Made Fourth Wing an Instant Favorite

FOURTH WING by Rebecca Yarros

"Fly… or die." And I did both while reading this book.

If Fourth Wing was a dragon, it would’ve incinerated every reading slump I’ve ever had. From the moment Violet Sorrengail is forced into Basgiath War College—a deadly, elite training ground for dragon riders—you know you’re about to enter a world where survival is anything but guaranteed.

This book isn’t just good. It’s obsessive, heart-racing, and painfully addictive. Here’s why Fourth Wing had me dog-earing pages, texting friends in all caps, and looking up “how to bond with a dragon in real life.”

5 Things That Made Fourth Wing an Instant Favorite

1. Violet’s not your usual fantasy heroine.

She’s small, bookish, chronically ill—and utterly brilliant. Watching her outsmart and outlast everyone in a world that’s trying to kill her is the most satisfying thing I’ve read all year.

2. Xaden Riorson. Period.

He’s everything you want in a brooding love interest: morally gray, emotionally guarded, and intensely loyal. The tension between him and Violet? Absolute fire and SWOONWORTHY.

3. The dragons are characters, not props.

They’re clever, stubborn, and hilarious. Think grumpy old mentors with wings and fire. Their bond with riders is emotional and sacred—don’t get too attached. (Just kidding. Definitely get too attached.)

4. The pacing is merciless (in the best way).

The training scenes. The battles. The betrayals. Every chapter ends with a reason to keep reading. Sleep? Don’t know her.

5. That ending.

Let’s just say… I screamed. I was in desperate need for book two my poor husband had to visit 3 different Targets to find a copy. Mind you I decided to start this series a few days before the release of book two, so I learned to pre-order everything.

Final Thoughts:
Fourth Wing is Divergent meets How to Train Your Dragon meets every dark fantasy romance you’ve ever loved. If you want a heroine to root for, a romance to die for, and a fantasy world that feels real and dangerous, this book needs to be at the top of your TBR.

Currently Obsessed With:
Xaden and Xaden Riorson alone.
Tairn’s grumpy old man energy.
“Fly or die.” (Tattoo it on my soul.)

Already read it? Tell me what moment made you fall in love with the book (no spoilers in the comments, please!).