Onyx Storm Highlights the Major Flaw in the Empyrean Series

WARNING: Spoilers Ahead for Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros

Rebecca Yarros’ Empyrean Series has captivated fans with its imaginative storytelling; however, the latest installment, Onyx Storm, exposes a prominent flaw that has become increasingly apparent. Currently, the book enjoys an impressive rating of 4.47 on Goodreads. Despite this, its rating has been in gradual decline since its release, as more casual readers and critics absorb the story’s conclusion.

Violet & Xaden: Stagnation in Emotional Growth

Toxic Relationship Dynamics

The central conflict within the Empyrean Series revolves around its two primary characters, Violet and Xaden. On the surface, they seem to embody the potential for a transformative romantic arc; however, their relationship has not evolved positively, and this has become a significant hurdle. Instead of demonstrating growth, both characters continue to exhibit toxic behaviors that impact those around them.Violet and Xaden’s emotional development has regressed rather than advanced.

For three installments, readers have witnessed Violet and Xaden excel in their signet abilities and combat skills, yet emotionally, they remain as immature and stunted as ever. Violet, despite previous resolve, once again jeopardizes her friends’ safety by concealing Xaden’s venin status, betraying the trust her friends placed in her. After being confronted in the previous book, it was hoped that she would break free from her pattern of deception; instead, she clings to old habits.

In Onyx Storm, her repeated lies not only put her friends at risk but further illustrate her lack of growth. Xaden, on the other hand, has devolved into a jealous and possessive figure, displaying alarming aggression that stems from his own insecurities. This dynamic reflects a profound stagnation in their relationship, marked not by growth, but by a bleak spiral that ultimately diminishes their character arcs.

External Observations of Their Toxic Dynamics

Confrontation from Friends

Violet and Xaden’s friends are not blind to the dysfunction within their dynamic. In Onyx Storm, Violet is called out for her hypocrisy and dishonesty, especially as she often accuses Xaden of the same faults. This moment, framed humorously, nevertheless contains truths that resonate with the ongoing narrative:

“[Rhiannon] shoots a sideways glance my way.‘But he’s right, you and Riorson bicker like you’ve been married fifty years and neither of you wants to do the dishes.’

‘That is not true, ’ I protest as Sawyer nods.

‘Agreed, ’ Ridoc says.‘And it’s always the same fight.’ He lifts his hand to his chest.‘I’ll trust you if you stop keeping secrets!’ He drops the hand and scowls.‘It’s my secretive nature that attracted you, and why can’t you just stay out of harm’s way for five f**king minutes?’

Rhi laughs so hard she nearly chokes.”

This exchange underscores that at their core, Violet and Xaden are embroiled in a cycle of conflict, rarely breaking free from their repetitive arguments. The stagnant nature of their relationship considerably weakens its foundation as they continue to grapple with issues they’ve vowed to address since the series began.

Series Weaknesses Highlighted by Onyx Storm

Growth of Supporting Characters

What makes Violet and Xaden’s stalled development even more pronounced is the evident growth of their peers. In contrast to their stagnation, the friends around them are evolving in meaningful ways. For instance, Rhiannon and her partner Tara engage in constructive conversations that nurture their relationship, laying a foundation for a healthy partnership.

Furthermore, Sawyer’s journey in Onyx Storm is remarkably poignant. He embarks on a journey of healing and reclamation following the trauma of losing his leg, demonstrating resilience and ingenuity by crafting a prosthetic to reclaim his sense of mobility. His developing relationship with Jesinia encapsulates the hopeful narrative of personal growth and emotional healing.

Meanwhile, Ridoc emerges as a character of considerable depth, stepping out of the background and into a significant role. His accountability towards Violet is a testament to his growth, showcasing the maturity he has attained. Ridoc’s forthrightness in demanding honesty from Violet starkly contrasts with her continued evasiveness, further highlighting her stagnation as a character.

The Necessity for Change in the Fourth Installment

Evolving Characters for Continued Success

The reliance on Violet and Xaden as the central figures of the Empyrean Series poses a critical dilemmas; their stagnation threatens the progression of the narrative itself. With two more books slated for release, it becomes increasingly vital for these characters to undergo substantial development. The repetitive dissatisfaction derived from their relationship dynamics hints at a troubling pattern that could compromise the series’ overall integrity.

With the introduction of new plotlines in Onyx Storm, it is imperative that the upcoming fourth book seizes the opportunity to allow Violet and Xaden to break free from their toxic patterns. There is ample room for growth, both individually and as a couple, which could reinvigorate their characters and enrich the narrative. Failure to achieve this would result in yet another installment marked by predictable conflicts. Readers are eager for more than just recycled storylines; they deserve nuanced characters who can learn, evolve, and surprise them.

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