The 2024 Amazon Bestseller List was dominated by a book that didn't even launch until this week: Onyx Storm, the latest installment in Rebecca Yarros's Empyrean series. If the name sounds familiar, it's likely because you've heard of Fourth Wing, the series' breakout hit. This success story owes much to BookTok, the book-loving corner of TikTok, a platform that previously propelled Colleen Hoover's It Ends With Us to phenomenal success.
Why the Empyrean Series' Success?
While TikTok undeniably played a major role, the books' inherent appeal is undeniable. Fourth Wing and Iron Flame offer a compelling blend of familiar and fresh elements: the magical school setting reminiscent of Harry Potter, the romantic tension echoing Twilight, and the dragon-centric fantasy reminiscent of the Inheritance Cycle. This familiarity, combined with a unique narrative, creates an irresistible read.
Another contributing factor to the series' popularity is the explicit depiction of the protagonist's romantic relationships. What begins as a typical young adult novel quickly transitions into a steamy adult fantasy romance, a blend that clearly resonates with readers. Dragons, fantasy, and romance – a winning combination!
AnswerSee ResultsOther 2024 Amazon Bestsellers:
Onyx Storm secured the number two spot on the 2024 Amazon bestseller list. The top spot went to Kristin Hannah's The Women, released in February 2024 and also a New York Times bestseller. 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.
