By RORY MOORE
Tiger Media Network
The Hays Public Library hosted a release party on Tuesday for “Onyx Storm,” the third book in the “Empyrean” fantasy romance series written by Rebecca Yarros. Themed food and drinks were served to fans of the series who also participated in pressing T-shirts with “Empyrean” graphics and trivia to win a free copy of the new book.
Empyrean-themed food was served at the party. 
Styrofoam eggs were covered with metal pins for fans to take home as part of the dragon theme in the books. 
Fans of the series placed graphics of the Basgiath War College in the story on T-shirts. 
HPL Catalog Coordinator Sara Doyle shows Takira Blick how to press a T-shirt with the “Empyrean” logo. 
Samantha Gill, Adult Services Manager, leads a “Empyrean” trivia. 
Attendees were given study guides to prepare for the trivia related tot eh franchise. 
Fans write their answers on paper for a free copy of “Onyx Storm.”
HPL Adult Services Manager and fan of the books Samantha Gill organized the event to bring readers together for the latest story.
“The series is about Violet Sorenngail, who enters the Basgiath War College, where people become dragon-riders,” she said. “Sorenngail bonds with not just one but two dragons and becomes one of the most sought-after riders in her generation, and a lot of things happen. They’re fighting enemies, and romance happens.”
Gill appreciates the uniqueness of the series, which includes “Fourth Wing” and “Iron Flame,” with “Fourth Wing” being her favorite.
“When it came out, it was like no other fantasy I’d read,” she said. “It has a strong female lead, which is important. It’s unique in itself in that the dragons are the best characters. They have personalities, bond with their riders, communicate telepathically with them, and their lives are intertwined. If a dragon dies, the rider dies. If a rider dies, the dragon doesn’t die, but it gravely devastates them.”
The party was attended by people within and outside of the “Empyrean” fandom, including some who have not read the series but plan to.
“It’s one of my most anticipated reads of the year,” Biology Major Jadynn Doyle said. “I’m an avid romantic reader, so I’m super excited to read the books and experience this world. I have yet to read one with dragons, and I think it’ll be a nice new book avenue to read about.”
Her expectations of the series have built up her excitement to read the books.
“I expect a lot of hardship [in the story],” Doyle said. “I’ve heard that Yarros does her books in a way where one ends on a high and the next book ends on a low. I’m excited to experience that and the emotions that come with it.”
Through leading activities at the party, Gill wanted to connect people through their shared enjoyment of reading and love of the books.
“I like when people have an opportunity to come together and talk about books that have inspired them or ignited their passion for reading,” she said. “I’ve heard people say that the series reignited their love of fantasy. So, I think it’s fun when people get together and talk about books they love, no matter what it is. Whether it’s fantasy, romance, thrillers, or nonfiction, they get to bond and have some meaningful conversations.”