2024 saw many fantastic books, but one unexpected bestseller stands out: Onyx Storm, the latest installment in Rebecca Yarros's Empyrean series, which launched this week.
If you're unfamiliar with the series, you might have heard of Fourth Wing, its predecessor. The books' popularity largely stems from their viral success on BookTok, mirroring the trajectory of Colleen Hoover's It Ends With Us, a 2022 bestseller that later became a movie.
Why the Empyrean Series' Popularity?
Now Available### Onyx Storm (Standard Edition)
9Hardcover and Kindle versions available at a discount.$29.99 save 30%$20.98 at Amazon$29.99 save 50%$14.99 at Amazon KindleWhile BookTok undeniably fueled the series' viral ascent, the books' inherent appeal also played a significant role. Having read Fourth Wing and Iron Flame, I can attest to their captivating nature. They blend familiar elements—the magical world-building reminiscent of Harry Potter, the romance reminiscent of Twilight, and the dragon lore reminiscent of Inheritance Cycle—creating a unique and engaging reading experience.
Another factor contributing to the series' success is the explicit depiction of the protagonist's sexual encounters. What initially appears as a standard young adult novel quickly transitions into a steamy romance, a characteristic that persists throughout. Essentially, it's an epic fantasy romance with dragons and mature themes—a winning combination for many readers.
AnswerSee ResultsOther Amazon Bestsellers of 2024
Onyx Storm secured the second spot on Amazon's 2024 bestseller list. Kristin Hannah's The Women, released in February 2024, claimed the top position, also topping The New York Times bestseller list. Here's a glimpse at the top ten:
- The Women - Kristin Hannah
- Onyx Storm - Rebecca Yarros
- Atomic Habits - James Clear
- Hillbilly Elegy - J.D. Vance
- The Housemaid - Freida McFadden
- Mom, I Want to Hear Your Story - Jeffrey Mason
- Dad, I Want to Hear Your Story - Jeffrey Mason
- The Anxious Generation - Jonathan Haidt
- It Ends With Us - Colleen Hoover
- Good Energy - Casey Means M.D
