Dear Fantasy Reader Podcast Episode Summary Episode: Ep 4 Hints and Clues Rebecca Yarros Has Dropped About Onyx Storm: PART 1
Release Date: January 8, 2025
Hosts: Hannah, Karly, and Kinsey

Introduction to Onyx Storm Preparations

Timestamp: [01:17]

In this episode, the hosts Hannah, Karly, and Kinsey delve deep into the myriad of hints and clues that Rebecca Yarros has shared regarding the much-anticipated third installment of the Empyrean series, Onyx Storm. Positioned as a preparatory season, Season 2 focuses on building excitement through recaps, theories, and insights from Yarros' recent interviews.

Series Expansion and Cliffhangers

Timestamp: [03:04] - [04:37]

Hannah reveals a significant update about the Empyrean series: "The Empyrean series will be five books total. So Onyx Storm is book three of five." This revelation surprises many fans, emphasizing that Onyx Storm will not conclude the series but instead propel it forward with substantial cliffhangers. Carly echoes this sentiment, highlighting the unsettling excitement of preparing for a continuation rather than an ending.

Themes and Emotional Undertones

Timestamp: [04:19] - [07:19]

The hosts discuss the underlying themes that Onyx Storm is set to explore:

• Emotional Complexity: Rebecca Yarros indicates a shift towards more intense emotional landscapes. Kinsey muses, "I hope that's a positive thing," referring to Yarros' hint that the book will evoke strong emotions.

• Character Development: Hannah emphasizes the growth of characters like Violet and Zaden, noting Veronica's appreciation for morally gray characters. "I really love Onyx, I think the most because I love a morally gray man and because I'm at that point where I get to expand and I get to actually know where I am and where my feet are," Hannah cites Yarros' admiration for complex character arcs.

Rebecca Yarros’ Taylor Swift Inspirations

Timestamp: [08:09] - [10:22]

A significant portion of the episode focuses on how Rebecca Yarros draws inspiration from Taylor Swift's music:

• "Reputation" Era Influence: Hannah interprets Yarros' comment, "Onyx Storm is very rep coded," suggesting that the themes mirror the transformation and self-empowerment found in Swift's "Reputation" album.

• Specific Song Inspirations: Yarros identifies "So It Goes" from "Reputation" and "Who's Afraid of Little Old Me" from "Tortured Poets Department" as the driving musical inspirations. Carly connects these songs to Violet's character arc, anticipating a "villain era" progression.

Plot Hints and World-Building

Timestamp: [10:45] - [16:06]

The hosts unpack various plot hints that Rebecca Yarros has provided:

• Cliffhanger Setup: Hannah discusses the impending cliffhanger in Onyx Storm, citing Yarros' statement on the book being fully plotted as part of a five-book series.

• Weaknesses in the Wards: Kinsey raises concerns about the strength of magical wards protecting the continent, referencing Yarros' interview where she states, "Jack is absolute evidence that they are not invincible." This suggests vulnerabilities that the protagonists will need to address.

• World Expansion: In response to queries about world-building, Yarros confirms, "There are tons of things...you will be watching it expand as Violet learns more." Hannah anticipates exploring new locations and deeper lore within the Empyrean universe.

Character Dynamics: Zaden and Violet

Timestamp: [25:28] - [35:02]

A significant focus is placed on the intricate relationship between Zaden and Violet:

• Enduring Their Bond: Yarros hints at the longevity of their relationship with the comment, "just remember that at its core, it's a romantasy." The hosts discuss the challenges of maintaining this bond amidst external conflicts.

• Conflict and Teamwork: Hannah expresses a desire for the duo to face world-threatening issues together rather than being bogged down by interpersonal drama. She states, "I want to see them fight standing side by side against the other conflicts."

• Sigail’s Betrayal: The episode delves into Sigail's strained relationship with Zaden post his transformation into Venon. Carly notes, "That was a huge betrayal on another level," anticipating emotional turmoil and its impact on the overarching narrative.

Zaden’s Intensic Abilities and Signets

Timestamp: [36:22] - [38:35]

Zaden's unique abilities are a focal point:

• Second Signet Revelation: Yarros cryptically responds to queries about Zaden's ability to remain sane despite his intense powers: "dude, book three." The hosts infer that Onyx Storm will explore the origins and implications of his second signet.

• Thought Reading Capability: Yarros hints that Zaden can read not just intentions but actual thoughts, as inferred from the quote, "he remembers you thinking that. I used that to my advantage." This deepens the complexity of his character and the potential vulnerabilities it introduces.

Violet’s Determination and Possible Venon Transformation

Timestamp: [44:03] - [52:53]

Violet’s character arc is highlighted with potential transformations:

• Unwavering Goal: Hannah cites Yarros' comment, "she has one goal, and she doesn't care what stands in her way to achieve it," indicating Violet's relentless pursuit, possibly towards finding the Seventh Den.

• Potential Venon Shift: Addressing speculations about Violet turning into Venon, the hosts discuss Yarros’ original intention to have Violet make this transformation. However, Carly believes it may not occur in Onyx Storm to maintain narrative depth and unpredictability.

World Politics and Power Dynamics

Timestamp: [52:53] - [54:20]

The episode touches upon the political landscape and power struggles within the Empyrean universe:

• Zaden's Royal Status: Hannah references Yarros' clarification that Zaden is "king of Tarandor by birth," implying his rightful place in the kingdom despite political turmoils.

• Llewellyn's Role: Discussions revolve around Llewellyn, Zaden's foster parent, and his allegiance concerning Orisha's survival and the safeguarding of the continent.

Secrets and Future Narratives

Timestamp: [54:03] - [48:35]

The culmination of the episode focuses on future storytelling elements:

• Zaden’s Secrets: Hannah relays Yarros' mention that Zaden's true POV won't be extensively explored until he ceases keeping secrets, suggesting upcoming revelations about his character.

• Violet’s Secrets: The hosts speculate whether Violet's improved ability to keep secrets pertains to her personal growth or literal magical shielding, interpreting Yarros' hints accordingly.

Emotional and Psychological Themes

Timestamp: [48:21] - [50:47]

Onyx Storm is set to delve into profound emotional narratives:

• Violet's Grief: Yarros mentions that grief will play a significant role for Violet, stating, "it's about to catch up with Violet because she's pushed aside everything with Liam and then she's just watched her mother sacrifice everything and it catches up." This indicates a deep emotional journey for Violet.

• Character Trauma: The hosts acknowledge the heavy trauma that characters like Zaden, Sigail, and Violet will endure, setting the stage for intense character development.

Final Thoughts and Teasers for Part Two

Timestamp: [54:20] - [55:35]

As the episode concludes, the hosts tease further discussions in Part Two, promising to unpack additional hints and delve into listener theories. They encourage fans to engage through Patreon and social channels to stay updated on the latest developments leading up to Onyx Storm's release.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Hannah [04:19]: "The Empyrean series will be five books total. So Onyx Storm is book three of five."

• Rebecca Yarros [05:06]: "You aren't ready." (Describing the vibe of Onyx Storm)

• Hannah [04:31]: "I really love Onyx, I think the most because I love a morally gray man and because I'm at that point where I get to expand and I get to actually know where I am and where my feet are."

• Rebecca Yarros [18:39]: "Naturally." (In response to whether Zaden has more secrets)

• Rebecca Yarros [22:00]: "You can count on that too." (Implying multiple family betrayals)

• Rebecca Yarros [30:46]: "Book three." (Regarding Zaden's mental strength and control over his abilities)

• Hannah [32:33]: "We don't know a ton about Sigail, but I Do think she chose a very level headed and discerning mate."

Conclusion

This episode provides an extensive exploration of the upcoming Onyx Storm, weaving together Rebecca Yarros' interview insights with the hosts' interpretations and theories. From character dynamics and emotional arcs to world-building and magical intricacies, fans are given a sneak peek into what promises to be a riveting continuation of the Empyrean series. The hosts adeptly balance speculation with confirmed information, ensuring listeners are both informed and eagerly anticipating the next installment.

For more detailed discussions, theories, and exclusive content, listeners are encouraged to visit the podcast's Patreon and join their Discord community.