The midnight book release is back, with readers flocking to events for Onyx Storm

The anticipation was palpable as fans packed into bookstores, bars, and breweries on Monday night, all dressed in costume and brimming with excitement over the release of the latest installment of their favorite book series. Rebecca Yarros’s Onyx Storm, the third book in the highly acclaimed Empyrean series, officially hit the shelves on Tuesday. However, eager fans across the country got their hands on copies at midnight release events, some even shelling out up to $100 for the experience.

The author herself attended a sold-out midnight release event in New York City, just one of over 1,100 events planned across the U.S. and Canada. This marked a significant increase from the release events held for the second book, Iron Flame, showcasing the immense popularity of the series.

The Empyrean series follows the story of 20-year-old Violet Sorrengail at a college for dragon riders, weaving together elements of war, intrigue, and romance. The series falls under the genre of “romantasy,” a genre that combines fantasy world-building with the intensity of romance, catering to readers in their early 20s. The first two books in the series have already topped the New York Times bestseller list and gained widespread popularity on social media.

Pre-orders for Onyx Storm were 161 percent higher than for the second book, Iron Flame, making it the second most pre-ordered book in Indigo’s history. The midnight release events saw hundreds of fans eagerly awaiting the opportunity to get their hands on the latest installment.

The resurgence of midnight book release parties harkens back to the days of Harry Potter mania, with fans lining up for hours outside bookstores. However, these events have now evolved into blockbuster ticketed affairs, with prices ranging from just under $50 to $100 per ticket. Attendees were treated to a variety of activities, including games, snacks, and even pottery painting, making the events a true celebration of the series.

The popularity of romantasy novels like the Empyrean series has been fueled by social media platforms like BookTok, where Fourth Wing went viral, sparking a revival of reading and community engagement. The pandemic also played a role in fostering a safe space for readers to connect and share their love for books online.

As fans eagerly delved into the pages of Onyx Storm, the excitement and energy of the midnight release events lingered, showcasing the enduring power of literature to bring people together and ignite a passion for storytelling. The Empyrean series continues to captivate readers and inspire a new generation of book lovers.