Onyx Storm’s New Jack Barlowe Replacement Proves to be Even Worse

Warning: SPOILERS for Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros.

In Onyx Storm, Rebecca Yarros introduces a new character to take the place of Jack Barlowe, but this replacement proves to be equally frustrating. Following the climax of Iron Flame, where Jack had increasingly become a nuisance for Violet, his absence leaves a notable void. Even from within his prison cell, Jack still manages to vex Violet. However, his screen time is significantly reduced, particularly towards the conclusion of Onyx Storm.

Introduction of Aura Beinhaven in Onyx Storm

From Background Character to Lead Antagonist

Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros Book Cover — Custom image by Yeider Chacon

Aura Beinhaven, a character previously relegated to the sidelines, steps into the spotlight as Violet’s new rival in Onyx Storm. This abrupt shift in her role is puzzling; she had not been substantially mentioned prior and had no relationship with Violet worth noting. Xaden had moved Aura to Second Wing in Fourth Wing to oversee Violet’s squad, which contributed to her minimal interaction with Violet.

In Iron Flame, Aura ascends to senior wingleader status within the Riders Quadrant after significant upheaval at Basgiath. Despite her grievances regarding Violet and Xaden’s rebellion, it seemed limited to typical rivalries, lacking any real depth. Consequently, it feels jarring when Onyx Storm positions her as a direct adversary to Violet, as her hostility appears sudden and contrived. Aura’s attempts to undermine Violet at every opportunity lead to numerous confrontations that echo Jack’s previous behavior, but without a clear motivation behind her animosity.

Aura Beinhaven: More Annoying Than Jack Barlowe

Flawed Arc and Lack of Character Depth

Jack Barlowe in Fourth Wing Iron Flame Onyx Storm — Art by MiraMirage Art

Unfortunately, Aura’s character comes across as distinctly irritating in Onyx Storm. While Jack Barlowe was undeniably cruel, his antagonistic behavior had roots in his character traits, leading to a more consistent and believable narrative. Even after Jack was revealed to be venin, his actions aligned with his established nature.

In stark contrast, Aura appears simply unable to cope with the changing dynamics around her. Stubbornly clinging to her grievances—including the death of a cousin at the hands of fliers—she ruthlessly targets Violet rather than seeking to reconcile. While many of her peers have managed to forgive past transgressions for a common cause, Aura’s refusal seems unfounded and excessively dramatic.

Aura’s narrative presence in Onyx Storm serves primarily to generate unnecessary tension, particularly during the quest to discover the seventh dragon breed. Her antagonistic behavior escalates to the point where it becomes unrealistic, even within the fantastical context of the series. Ultimately, her arc concludes in dissatisfaction as she and her temporary allies meet fatal ends, making her antagonism feel utterly pointless.

Avoiding a Repetition of Jack Barlowe’s Venin Arc

Unappealing Plot Twist

In a pivotal moment in Onyx Storm, Aura seemingly meets her end at the hands of a wyvern, experiencing a gruesome fate that leaves little room for survival. However, one could recall Jack Barlowe’s apparent demise in Fourth Wing, after which he returned due to his transformation into venin.

Should Aura undergo a similar resurrection, it would likely be viewed as a regrettable narrative misstep. While there may be grounds for her to have hidden depths similar to Jack’s, reusing the same plot device would undermine the story’s originality and value.Aura’s entire narrative arc serves little fundamental purpose, so her survival or revival would feel redundant.

For the success of the forthcoming installment in the Empyrean Series, it is essential that Aura remains sidelined, allowing for new developments and character growth without echoes of past storylines.

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