Threshing Day

Getting to return to Basgiath and spend more time with the riders and their dragons was a treat. This companion collection has thirteen short stories about Threshing: how familiar characters meet their dragons, what they’re feeling in those moments, and some of the experiences that shape them as riders. It isn’t a continuation of Violet and Xaden’s story, but it gave me more of the world and characters I already love.

I especially enjoyed seeing these moments from the characters’ own perspectives. Their Threshing experiences aren’t all alike; each rider brings their own fears, hopes, and challenges to the bond. Xaden’s story was a highlight for me. I liked learning more about his life before Fourth Wing and seeing the beginning of his bond with Sgaeyl. I also appreciated the stories about Mira and Brennan, which gave me more insight into the Sorrengail family and the expectations placed on them.

Liam, Garrick, Bodhi, and Imogen were wonderful to revisit, too. Their stories gave me more of their histories and the loyalty between the marked ones. Liam’s was especially meaningful to me. Knowing his place in the larger series made getting this extra time with him feel all the more precious. I also enjoyed Rhiannon, Sawyer, Ridoc, Dain, Sloane, and Aaric’s stories. Each one added something to my understanding of the characters beyond what we see through Violet’s eyes.

And of course, the dragons were a joy. I loved seeing more of their distinct personalities and how differently they choose and bond with riders. They’re intelligent, independent, and very much their own characters. Some are intimidating, some are more understanding, and some have little patience for human nonsense. Honestly, fair.

I would happily have read more about every one of these characters, but I never felt the collection was missing anything. It gave me the extra glimpses I wanted and let me see familiar characters and their dragons from a new angle.

WOULD I RECOMMEND THRESHING DAY? Absolutely. I’d recommend it to readers who already love The Empyrean and want more time with its riders and dragons. I’d read Fourth Wing and Iron Flame first; knowing these characters makes the stories here more meaningful.

MY FINAL VERDICT: Threshing Day gave me exactly what I hoped for: more time in a world I love, a closer look at familiar characters, and the beginnings of their bonds with their dragons. I enjoyed all thirteen stories and finished wishing I could stay at Basgiath a little longer.

Final Book Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) | Spice Rating: 0/5 Peppers