Podcast Summary: Dear Fantasy Reader - Episode 5: "Hints and Clues Rebecca Yarros Has Dropped About Onyx Storm: PART 2"

Release Date: January 8, 2025
Hosts: Hannah, Kinsey, and Carly

Introduction

In the latest installment of Dear Fantasy Reader, Episode 5 delves deep into the anticipated release of Onyx Storm, the forthcoming book in Rebecca Yarros’ Empyrean series. This episode, aptly titled "Hints and Clues Rebecca Yarros Has Dropped About Onyx Storm: PART 2," continues the trio's exploration of the latest revelations and subtle hints shared by Yarros about what readers can expect in the new installment.

Unveiling Dragon Society and Secrets

The hosts begin by dissecting Yarros’ recent insights into the dragon society within the Empyrean universe.

• Hannah (02:51): Quotes Yarros discussing dragons’ hidden society:
  “They have a whole society that we don't get to see because they just don't. We aren't cool enough for them. We are temporary to them.”
• Kinsey (04:11): Ponders the enigmatic dragon Indarna, highlighting her potential knowledge:
  “She's like a teenager who's the queen of her own breed. She can do whatever she wants.”

The discussion reveals that dragons will remain largely mysterious, with more information expected primarily through the character Indarna. The hosts speculate on the implications of dragon secrets, linking them to broader themes of trust and betrayal within the series.

Dragon Family Dynamics and Culture

Yarros’ interviews shed light on the intricate family structures and cultural norms among dragons.

• Carly (05:27): Explores the negative effects of dragon secrecy:
  “The secrecy is really one of those things that's going to have really hurt them more than it's helped them.”

The hosts connect these insights to character interactions in previous books, emphasizing how withheld information among dragonkind has set the stage for upcoming conflicts and challenges for the protagonists.

Violet’s Evolving Powers and Signets

A significant portion of the episode focuses on Violet’s mysterious second signet and its implications.

• Hannah (24:57): Highlights Yarros’ hint about Violet’s second signet:
  “Violet's second signet… is it going to be revealed in book three.”
• Carly (52:13): Discusses the subtlety of signet clues buried within "Iron Flame":
  “Every single hint you would need to know what her second signet is is in Iron Flame.”

The hosts analyze Yarros’ intention for Violet’s second signet to be an “obvious” detail, yet one that many fans have dedicated extensive analysis to uncovering. They debate potential abilities, including distance wielding and other magical powers, drawing connections to previous books' lore.

Character Arcs and Potential Sacrifices

The episode delves into character development and speculates on possible sacrifices and pivotal moments in "Onyx Storm."

• Kinsey (75:10): Predicts Taryn’s ultimate fate:
  “I think Zaden is going to feel jealous… Maybe not even a healthy amount.”
• Carly (76:31): Offers a heartfelt hope regarding Ri’s safety:
  “Please don’t touch Rhi.”

The hosts express their fears and hopes for beloved characters, anticipating significant emotional scenes and character departures that will drive the narrative forward.

Provocative Ending and Emotional Stakes

Yarros hints at a climactic and emotionally charged ending for "Onyx Storm."

• Brit in Bookland (60:53): Shares Yarros’ excitement for a pivotal scene:
  “A really cool scene early on when everything's going to shit with Bezgaeth…”
• Hannah (65:06): Reflects on the impending emotional impact:
  “Fill in a lot of our questions about the theories that we're building.”

The discussion underscores the high stakes and emotional depth that readers can expect, with the hosts preparing themselves for both joyous and heartbreaking moments.

Speculative Theories and Final Thoughts

In the concluding segment, the hosts exchange theories and prepare for the upcoming challenges posed by the new book.

• Carly (73:18): Speculates on unexpected character deaths:
  “Someone else dies in this book than she expected to…”
• Kinsey (78:22): Anticipates Dane’s redemption arc:
  “It's gonna be his end. Redemption, I think.”

The conversation culminates in a blend of excitement and anxiety, with the hosts eagerly awaiting the release of "Onyx Storm" and the ensuing revelations that will shape the future of the Empyrean series.

Conclusion

Episode 5 of Dear Fantasy Reader offers an engaging and comprehensive analysis of Rebecca Yarros’ hints about Onyx Storm. Through meticulous discussion and insightful speculation, Hannah, Kinsey, and Carly provide listeners with a rich understanding of what to expect, fueling anticipation for the next chapter in the Empyrean saga. Whether you're a seasoned fan or new to the series, this episode is a treasure trove of theories, easter eggs, and heartfelt fandom moments that prepare you for the thrilling journey ahead.

Notable Quotes:

• Hannah (02:51):
  “They have a whole society that we don't get to see because they just don't. We aren't cool enough for them. We are temporary to them.”

• Kinsey (04:11):
  “She's like a teenager who's the queen of her own breed. She can do whatever she wants.”

• Carly (05:27):
  “The secrecy is really one of those things that's going to have really hurt them more than it's helped them.”

• Hannah (24:57):
  “Violet's second signet… is it going to be revealed in book three.”

• Carly (52:13):
  “Every single hint you would need to know what her second signet is is in Iron Flame.”

• Hannah (65:06):
  “Fill in a lot of our questions about the theories that we're building.”

Note: All timestamps correspond to the moments within the podcast where the quotes were mentioned.