When Is The Next Fourth Wing Book Coming Out? The Onyx Storm Release Timeline Explained
When is the next Fourth Wing book coming out? This single, burning question has united millions of readers worldwide since they turned the final page of Iron Flame. The visceral thrill of Violet Sorrengail’s journey through the treacherous Basgiath War College has become a cultural phenomenon, leaving fans desperate for more. The wait for the next installment isn't just about a release date; it's a collective holding of breath across book clubs, TikTok, and Discord servers. We’re here to dissect every official clue, author hint, and industry pattern to give you the most comprehensive, up-to-date forecast for when you can finally get your hands on the next chapter of the Empyrean series.
This article is your definitive guide. We’ll move beyond simple speculation to explore the publishing realities that shape these timelines, delve into the creative process of author Rebecca Yarros, and provide actionable strategies to stay informed without falling for rumors. Whether you’re a seasoned dragon rider fan or just hearing the buzz, prepare for a deep dive into the world of Fourth Wing and the highly anticipated Onyx Storm.
The Mastermind Behind the Series: Rebecca Yarros
To understand the timeline for the next book, we must first understand its creator. Rebecca Yarros isn't just an author; she's a former military spouse and English teacher who channels her experiences with resilience, love, and sacrifice into her storytelling. Her breakout hit, Fourth Wing, was a #1 New York Times bestseller that exploded on TikTok's #BookTok, praised for its perfect blend of fantasy, romance, and relentless tension.
Rebecca Yarros’s personal life deeply informs her work. She has spoken openly about drawing from her own family's military history and the challenges of balancing a demanding writing career with motherhood. This authenticity is what gives characters like Violet and Xaden their heartbreaking depth and relatable struggles. Her commitment to thorough research, especially regarding military protocols and dragon lore, adds a layer of gritty realism that fans adore.
Here is a snapshot of the author driving this literary sensation:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Rebecca Yarros |
| Profession | Novelist, Former Teacher |
| Best-Known For | The Empyrean Series (Fourth Wing, Iron Flame) |
| Writing Genres | Fantasy Romance, New Adult, Military Romance |
| Key Inspiration | Personal experiences as a military spouse; themes of resilience and found family |
| Social Media | Active on Instagram (@rebeccayarros) and TikTok, where she shares updates and interacts with fans |
| Upcoming Project | Onyx Storm (Empyrean #3), plus a contemporary romance duet |
The Current State of the Empyrean Series: Where We Are Now
Before predicting the future, let's solidify the present. The Empyrean series is planned as a trilogy, with a potential fourth book serving as a spin-off or continuation focusing on other characters. The first two novels are firmly on shelves:
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- Fourth Wing(Released May 2, 2023): The explosive debut that introduced us to Violet Sorrengail, the unlikely cadet with a secret, and the devastatingly attractive dragon rider, Xaden Riorson. It set the stage for the political intrigue, deadly bondings, and slow-burn romance that define the series.
- Iron Flame(Released November 7, 2023): The direct sequel that picked up moments after the first book's cliffhanger. Violet and her allies face new threats, deeper betrayals, and the harsh realities of war, all while navigating the complexities of their dragon bonds and their relationship.
The critical and commercial success of both books is staggering. Fourth Wing sold over 2 million copies worldwide within its first year and has been translated into dozens of languages. Its sequel, Iron Flame, shattered pre-order records and debuted at #1 on multiple bestseller lists. This level of success guarantees a massive, global print run and marketing push for the next book, but it also creates immense pressure on the author and publisher to deliver a worthy successor.
The Big Question: Onyx Storm Release Date Predictions
So, when is the next Fourth Wing book coming out? The third novel, titled Onyx Storm, is the immediate focus. Based on the release pattern of the first two books—approximately 18 months apart—and standard publishing industry timelines for major fantasy releases, a late 2025 release window is the most widely accepted and logical prediction among industry analysts and informed fans.
Here’s the breakdown of why:
- The 18-Month Pattern:Fourth Wing (May '23) to Iron Flame (Nov '23) was a 6-month gap, which is exceptionally fast. This was due to the first book's unexpected viral success, allowing the publisher (Red Tower Press/Entangled) to fast-track the sequel. A more sustainable pace for a complex fantasy novel of this length (500+ pages) is 12-18 months. An 18-month gap from Iron Flame (Nov '23) points to mid-to-late 2025.
- Author's Writing Pace: Rebecca Yarros has stated she is a "pantser" (writing by the seat of her pants) and that these books are meticulously researched and emotionally draining. In interviews and newsletters, she has indicated that Onyx Storm requires a new level of world-building, particularly exploring the Aretian province and the politics of the gryphon fliers. This complexity necessitates a longer writing and revision period.
- Publisher Production Schedules: Major publishers like Entangled plan their biggest titles (like a #1 NYT bestseller's sequel) for key seasonal windows: spring (March-May) or fall (September-November). A late 2025 date aligns with the fall holiday season, the biggest period for book sales.
- Official Statements: While Yarros and her publisher have been characteristically vague to avoid pressure, the most concrete hint came from a 2024 newsletter where she mentioned being "deep in the writing trenches" for Onyx Storm and that it would be "a beast" to write. The term "beast" in author-speak often implies a longer, more challenging manuscript.
Important: No official, specific publication date has been announced yet. Any website or social media post claiming a precise day (e.g., "October 15, 2024") is spreading misinformation. The only reliable sources are Rebecca Yarros's official newsletter, her verified social media accounts, and announcements from her publisher, Entangled Publishing.
What to Expect From Onyx Storm: Plot Theories and Character Arcs
While details are scarce, we can extrapolate from the ending of Iron Flame and Yarros's known plans. Onyx Storm is expected to be the darkest and most politically charged book yet. Violet and Xaden's relationship will be tested by external threats and their own traumas. The title suggests a significant focus on the onyx dragons—a rare, powerful, and historically ominous breed—and the storm of war brewing on the horizon.
Key anticipated plot points include:
- The Aretian Province: Violet and Xaden are likely to travel to Xaden's home province, introducing new cultures, dragon types (like the gryphons), and political factions.
- Violet's Secret: The full extent and origin of Violet's secret—her signet and her connection to the venin—will be revealed, forcing her to redefine her identity.
- The War Escalates: The conflict with the venin and the fractured Navarrian army will move from skirmishes to full-scale warfare, raising the stakes for every character.
- Dragon Dynamics: The bonds between riders and their dragons will evolve. We may see new signets manifest and the unique abilities of the onyx dragons explored.
How to Stay Updated Without Losing Your Mind
The wait is long, but you don't have to be left in the dark. Here’s how to get legitimate updates:
- Subscribe to the Author's Newsletter: This is the #1 most reliable source. Rebecca Yarros uses her official newsletter (via her website) for major announcements, exclusive snippets, and personal updates. Sign up there, not on third-party sites.
- Follow Verified Social Media: Follow @rebeccayarros on Instagram and TikTok. She occasionally shares writing progress photos, mood boards, and "word count" updates. Be wary of fan accounts posing as the author.
- Check the Publisher's Website: Entangled Publishing's blog and social media will post official cover reveals, release date announcements, and pre-order links.
- Engage with the Community (Wisely): Join official or large, well-moderated fan groups on Facebook or Discord. These are great for discussing theories and sharing found information, but always cross-check any "leaked" dates or covers against the sources above.
- Pre-Order When Available: Once the official pre-order goes live (usually 3-6 months before release), do it! Pre-orders help publishers gauge demand and can sometimes come with exclusive bonuses like special covers or chapter samplers.
Addressing the Biggest Fan Questions
Q: Could the release be sooner than late 2025?
A: It's highly unlikely. The manuscript for a book of this scale likely isn't even complete. Publishing, editing, cover design, and printing for a global release takes a minimum of 6-9 months after the final manuscript is delivered.
Q: Will there be a Fourth Wing movie or TV show?
A: The rights to the Empyrean series were optioned for television by a major studio (Amazon MGM Studios, as of early 2024). This is in early development stages. A show, if made, would be years away and would not affect the book release schedule.
Q: What is the {{meta_keyword}} for this series?
A: Key semantic keywords and phrases include: "Empyrean series release schedule," "Rebecca Yarros Onyx Storm," "Fourth Wing sequel news," "when does Iron Flame sequel come out," "Basgiath War College book 3," and "dragon rider fantasy series next book."
Q: Is a Fourth Book Confirmed?
A: Rebecca Yarros has stated the core story of Violet and Xaden is a trilogy. However, she has also mentioned potential for a fourth book set in the same world, possibly following other POV characters like Rhiannon or Miryam. This would be a spin-off, not a direct sequel to Onyx Storm, and would follow years later.
Making the Wait Productive: What You Can Do Now
The 18+ month gap is an opportunity to deepen your fandom:
- Re-Read with a Purpose: Do a slow re-read of Fourth Wing and Iron Flame, this time tracking political alliances, foreshadowing, and dragon lore. You'll catch details missed the first time through the adrenaline.
- Dive into the Lore: Create your own timeline of the Tyrrish wars, map the provinces, and research the real-world military ranks and protocols that Yarros adapted.
- Engage with Creative Works: Write fanfiction, create fan art, or design your own dragon rider character. The community is incredibly creative and supportive.
- Explore Rebecca Yarros's Backlist: If you haven't read them, try her earlier adult romance novels (The Last Letter, Revival). They showcase her talent for emotional, character-driven stories and will tide you over.
- Support the Genre: Read other fantasy romance authors. The more the genre thrives, the more attention and resources publishers give to its top titles.
Conclusion: The Storm is Coming, and It Will Be Worth the Wait
The relentless question—when is the next Fourth Wing book coming out?—finally has a clear, evidence-based answer: look for Onyx Storm to arrive in late 2025. This timeline respects the creative process required for a novel of epic scope and emotional weight. Rebecca Yarros is crafting a story that must match the astronomical expectations of a global fanbase, and that simply cannot be rushed.
While the wait tests our patience, it also builds anticipation for what promises to be the most explosive chapter yet. The foundation is set: a fractured kingdom, a secretive heroine, a broken bond, and an onyx dragon whose storm is yet to break. By following official channels, engaging thoughtfully with the community, and exploring the rich world already built, you can transform the period of waiting into a deeper appreciation for the saga.
The release of Onyx Storm will be a major publishing event. Mark your calendars for late 2025, subscribe to that newsletter, and trust that the storm gathering on the horizon will be one for the history books. The dragons are coming.