My life is now marked in times of “Before Iron Flame” and “After Iron Flame.” This book was just earth shattering. I couldn’t read it fast enough. I couldn’t GET enough of Violence and Xaden. Every word out that man’s mouth, like holy moly Vi, I applaud your restraint, because if it was me, I’d do nothing but lay on my back and beg this man for MORE lmfao!!! I thought I loved him in Fourth Wing? But jfc, a Xaden in love? That’s MY MANNNN.

Okay but really, this book was somehow better than the second. Idk how it happened, but I love these characters even more. Violet, now that’s she’s had her eyes opened to the truth of Navarre, she goes full BAMF. I love watching her grow stronger physically, mentally, and emotionally. Her connections with her body, dragons, and her new powers don’t all come as naturally to her as she’d like, but she works for excellence. She refuses to fail, refuses to d*e in this college and leave the people she loves to fend for themselves. The people she’s up against are horrific, Varrish can literally join the ranks of Umbridge in terms of villains, and ugh Cat? Like I know we don’t hate hate her, but like we hate her, you know? But Violence, once again lives up to her name, proving herself a worthy partner, an equal to Xaden and worthy of her double bond at every turn. I know she’s not even at her full potential and already I’m in awe of her. And Xaddy!!!! This book was full of straight up gasp moments. This man’s mouth is something else. I seriously wish these books were dual POV, although I know why they’re not (ikykyk with the ending—no spoilers but the book wouldn’t have the same effect if we knew what he was thinking prior to this point, so MAYBE BOOK 3???). He’s so deserving of happiness, and I want nothing but good things for my baby. That’s all I can say without gushing over and over again lol.

While the character developments is incredible and they are all so dear to me, the plot is not lacking in this book either. Every time that I thought I knew what was coming, I was wrong. I was blown away by the storytelling and how fast-paced and compelling this book stayed throughout. We have peppered moments of respite, but really from the beginning we’re thrown in and facing obstacles alongside these characters. And again, the dragons. I just can’t say enough good things about Tairn and his humor. We all wish we had him bonded to us and you know it. Andarna, while still just scratching the surface is also so freaking hilarious. She’s such a firecracker, and her banter with the two are something of the best moments.

I just couldn’t believe the ending. Yet again, jaw on the floor. I have no freaking idea what’s coming, but I know that my heart is on the floor, barely hanging on. I have the utmost faith in these characters bonds at this point, but still I’m feeling apprehensive.  I want a happily ever after even just for a little bit, but I know it’s not coming any time soon ugh.