Onyx Storm: The Phenomenal Success of Rebecca Yarros' Empyrean Series
2024 saw a plethora of captivating books, but one title unexpectedly dominated Amazon's bestseller list: Onyx Storm, the latest installment in Rebecca Yarros' Empyrean series, which launched this week. Even if unfamiliar with the series, you've likely encountered its predecessor, Fourth Wing. This series' remarkable success is largely attributed to its viral ascent on BookTok, mirroring the trajectory of other romance novels, most notably Colleen Hoover's It Ends With Us, a 2022 bestseller that later became a film.
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 spread, its inherent appeal is equally significant. The plot and genre blend familiar elements—the magical world reminiscent of Harry Potter, the romantic tension echoing Twilight, and the dragon presence reminiscent of the Inheritance Cycle—creating a unique yet comfortably familiar reading experience.
Another contributing factor to the series' popularity is the explicit depiction of the protagonist's sexual encounters. This unexpected level of mature content sets it apart from typical young adult novels, adding a layer of intrigue to the epic fantasy romance. Dragons, romance, and mature themes—a compelling combination for readers.
AnswerSee ResultsAmazon's 2024 Bestsellers: Beyond Onyx StormOnyx 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 reigning supreme on 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.