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The dramatized adaptation of Yarros's gripping and swoony first entry in "The Empyrean" series is a fantastic listen. It includes a cast that, almost to a role, captures character and tone perfectly. It is deftly paced, has excellent production values, and provides immersive sound effects and music. Word by word, it delivers the story in a manner Yarros's fans will thrill to, as Violet Sorrengail enters battle school against her will, forced by her mother, the commanding general. There she must be selected by a dragon and learn to fight from its back—or she will be killed. Watching her every move is Xaden Riorson, son of a murdered rebellion leader, and her ruthless wingleader. Librarians will want to note that the single novel is separated into two audio volumes, each with its own ISBN number and sold separately. VERDICT Defining whole collection RA, the best read-alike to Yarros's genre-changing hit is this audio performance, which will delight audiences not yet ready to leave Violet and Xaden's world. Listeners who want to experience this touchstone of romantasy for the first time should pick this version, which is the best of the available audio editions. A key title for all collections.—Neal Wyatt