by Chloe Townson
If you’re a reader who’s still chasing the high of The Hunger Games — the rush of needing to read the next chapter, regardless of whether it’s already three hours past your bed time — then I highly recommend The Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros.
Violet Sorrengail is the daughter of revered General Sorrengail — all her life she’s wanted to join the Scribe Quadrant but, when the time comes to choose, her illustrious mother forces Violet to join the cutthroat ranks of the Riders Quadrant. Because that is where a Sorrengail belongs.
The Riders Quadrant is ruthless, many of its students failing to survive to graduation. Within its ranks are the marked — the children of rebels and dissidents, whose parents were all executed by General Sorrengail. Violet not only suffers a chronic illness that makes her bones easy to break, but also has a target on her back. Her main threat? Her wingleader Xaden Riorson, son of Fen Riorson, leader of the former rebellion.
Fourth Wing is the first title from new imprint, Red Tower Books. They advertise their books as ‘fantasy and romance’ which is exactly what you’re getting into with this book. The fantasy element is satisfied with dragons and magic and plenty of action that is not overshadowed by the romance — even if the romance is spicy. The first in a series, the pacing of Fourth Wing was exactly what it needed to be. It covers about a year in the life of our electric heroine where she bonds with dragons and discovers she is more than her illness and is capable of far more than she (and others) give her credit for. There are hints of political upheaval, of impending war, enough to know that the next book will not disappoint.
Fourth Wing is suitable for readers who enjoy fantasy that isn’t weighed down by lore and politics. There’s enough depth to keep frivolity at bay — it’s high-stakes action that keeps you turning the page (possibly until 2am).