Iron Flame

“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.

What is The Iron Flame About?

The Iron Flame picks up where The First Flame left off, plunging readers back into the tumultuous world of the Empyrean, where dragon riders and their bonded beasts fight to protect their kingdom from dark forces. The story follows our fierce heroine, Kira, as she grapples with the weight of her newfound powers and the responsibilities they entail. As war looms on the horizon, Kira must navigate treacherous alliances, uncover hidden truths, and confront her own fears to save those she loves.

Yarros masterfully balances high-stakes action with deeply emotional moments, creating a story that is as much about the bonds of love and friendship as it is about epic battles and dragon-fueled adventures. The Iron Flame is a testament to the power of resilience, loyalty, and the unbreakable spirit of those who fight for what they believe in.

Fun Facts About The Iron Flame

Dragons with Depth: Yarros spent months researching dragon mythology and behavior to create the unique personalities of the dragons in the Empyrean Series. Each dragon is as distinct and complex as their human counterparts, making them unforgettable characters in their own right.

A Playlist for the Ages: Just like with The First Flame, Yarros curated a playlist for The Iron Flame to capture the mood and emotions of the story. From haunting ballads to adrenaline-pumping anthems, the playlist is the perfect companion for your reading journey.

Hidden Easter Eggs: Fans of Yarros’ previous works will delight in spotting subtle references and connections to her other books. These hidden gems add an extra layer of enjoyment for longtime readers.

A Cover with Meaning: The striking cover of The Iron Flame features a dragon’s eye wreathed in flames, symbolizing the fierce determination and fiery spirit of the characters within. The intricate design is a visual feast that hints at the epic tale inside.

A Drink to Pair with The Iron Flame

“Dragon’s Breath”, a fiery and flavorful drink that mirrors the intensity of the story:

Ingredients:

1.5 oz spiced rum (for a bold, fiery kick)
0.5 oz cinnamon schnapps (for a touch of warmth)
2 oz pineapple juice (for a hint of sweetness)
A splash of lime juice (for balance)
A dash of hot sauce or a cinnamon stick for garnish (for that extra fiery flair)