Books Similar To Fourth Wing And Iron Flame
So, you devoured Fourth Wing and Iron Flame faster than a dragon hoards gold? I get it. Those books grab you, shake you around, and leave you begging for more. You're probably sitting there, staring at your bookshelf, wondering what magic potion to drink next to get that same oomph. Fear not, fellow fantasy fan! We're going on a treasure hunt for books that scratch that same dragon-sized itch, but with their own unique sparkle.
Let's talk about that feeling, shall we? The one where you're invested in characters so much you'd personally fight off a rogue griffin for them. You loved the tension, the banter, the sheer audacity of it all. You want more of that feeling where your heart races with the characters, you snort-laugh at witty comebacks, and maybe even shed a happy tear or two (or a frustrated sob, no judgment here!). We're not just looking for dragons, although, let's be real, dragons are pretty darn awesome. We're looking for the vibe.
That Dragon Rider Spark
First up, if you're all about the incredible bond between a rider and their dragon, you absolutely have to check out The Temeraire Series by Naomi Novik. Imagine a world where dragons are part of the Napoleonic Wars! Yep, you read that right. Instead of planes and airships, it's dragons soaring through the skies, breathing fire and being generally majestic. The star here is the incredibly intelligent and surprisingly philosophical dragon, Temeraire, and his human companion, Captain Will Laurence. Their relationship is the heart of it all, a deep friendship that transcends species. It's got a more historical feel than Fourth Wing, but the loyalty, the epic battles, and the sheer wonder of dragon flight are all there.
Another one that hits those dragon-rider sweet spots is Serpent & Dove by Shelby Mahurin. Now, this one leans more into forbidden romance and secret magic. Think witches and witch hunters, a fake marriage that starts to feel very real, and a whole lot of simmering tension. While there aren't literal dragons, there are powerful magical beings and a sense of high stakes that will keep you glued to the page. The banter between the main characters, Louise and Reid, is chef's kiss. It's witty, it's sharp, and you'll be rooting for them to finally admit they're into each other from the get-go.
Enemies, Lovers, and Everything In Between
Okay, let's talk about that delicious "enemies to lovers" trope that Fourth Wing does so well. If you want more of that slow-burn, hate-then-maybe-just-a-little-bit-smitten dynamic, then you need to meet the characters in From Blood and Ash by Jennifer L. Armentrout. This series throws you into a world with a sheltered protagonist, Poppy, who has a destiny she doesn't quite understand. Then enters a mysterious, broody, and incredibly attractive guard, Casteel. The sparks between them are practically visible on the page. There's danger, secrets, and a whole lot of swoon-worthy moments that will have you flipping pages late into the night. It’s got that same addictive quality of feeling like you’re discovering secrets alongside the characters.
For a slightly different flavour of forbidden attraction with a magical twist, try A Deal with the Elf King by Elise Kova. This is the first book in her Married to Magic series. It features Elara, who is sent to the dangerous and alluring Elflands to become the human queen. Her new husband, King Theron, is… well, let’s just say he’s not exactly Mr. Sunshine. Their relationship is a slow burn, full of misunderstandings and gradual understanding. You'll find yourself drawn to the world-building and the intricate political dance, but it's the growing connection between Elara and Theron that truly makes this one shine. It’s got that feeling of slowly peeling back layers of someone you thought you knew.
Academy Life, But Make It Dangerous
Fourth Wing and Iron Flame really nail the feeling of being in a high-stakes academy where one wrong move can be your last. If you miss that thrilling sense of constant peril mixed with training and friendships, you should definitely pick up The Cruel Prince by Holly Black. This is the first book in her Folk of the Air series, and it's pure, unadulterated fae drama. Our main character, Jude, is a mortal living in the treacherous world of the fae. She’s underestimated, she’s defiant, and she’s constantly trying to survive and thrive amongst powerful, often cruel, beings. The political intrigue, the dangerous court dynamics, and Jude’s fierce determination are incredibly compelling. And let’s not forget the undeniable chemistry that simmers between her and the infuriatingly charming Prince Cardan. It's a classic tale of a mortal outsmarting immortal beings, and it's utterly addictive.
Finally, for something with a strong military fantasy feel and a sense of duty battling personal desires, consider The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang. While this one is darker and more serious than Fourth Wing, it shares that academy setting where raw talent is pushed to its absolute limits. Rin, the protagonist, is an orphan who aces a military academy entrance exam and finds herself in a world of magic, warfare, and impossible choices. The magic system is fascinating, and the stakes are incredibly high. You’ll witness her growth and her struggles as she grapples with her power and the devastating consequences of war. It’s a more intense ride, but the sense of a young person finding their strength in a brutal world is a powerful thread that connects it.
So there you have it! A few paths to take when the dragon dust settles and you're left yearning for more epic adventures, intense relationships, and a dash of danger. Happy reading!