Such a great ending to the dualogy! Wow! The last 25% of the book was so heart wrenching and intense. I loved this booked and loved being in this world with Iris and Roman again but I loved the first book a bit more. This one was focused more on the war as the first was on the love letters.
Read if you like-
-times of war novels
-ww1 vibes
-gods & goddesses
- magic
- found family
- happy moments and intense moments
**my procreate reviews are on my mini review channel on my instagram :)
... Read moreOkay, fellow bookworms, let's talk about "Ruthless Vows" by Rebecca Ross! As the second and concluding part of this incredible duology, I had so many expectations, and it absolutely delivered. While "Divine Rivals" swept us away with its enchanting love letters, "Ruthless Vows" plunges us headfirst into the brutal realities of war, expanding the world of gods and goddesses, magic, and found family in ways I never anticipated.
The shift in focus from the more intimate romance of the first book to the larger-scale conflict of war was handled brilliantly. Rebecca Ross truly builds out the world, showcasing the devastating impact of the ongoing fight not just on the main characters, Iris and Roman, but on everyone around them. You feel the weight of every strategic decision, every sacrifice, and the desperate hope for peace. It’s definitely a must-read if you enjoy times of war novels, but with a unique, magical twist that sets it apart. The WWI vibes are palpable, yet completely reimagined with powerful deities and ancient enchantments.
What truly resonated with me, beyond the epic battles and magical elements, was the continued emphasis on found family. Iris and Roman's bond deepens under immense pressure, but so do their connections with their allies. Watching these characters lean on each other, fight for each other, and find solace in unexpected places was incredibly moving. It adds such a rich layer to the story, reminding us that even in the darkest times, connection and loyalty can be a guiding light. This 419-page journey feels substantial, allowing ample space for these relationships to develop authentically.
Now, for the question many of you are probably asking: "What happens at the end of Ruthless Vows?" and "Does Ruthless Vows have a happy ending?" Without giving away any major spoilers, I can tell you that the conclusion is nothing short of breathtaking. The original review mentioned the last 25% being heart-wrenching and intense, and I stand by that wholeheartedly. Rebecca Ross doesn't shy away from emotional stakes or difficult choices. It's a finale that truly earns its resolution. While 'happy ending' can mean different things to different people, especially in a story steeped in war and sacrifice, I found the ending to be incredibly satisfying and deeply profound. It brings a powerful sense of closure to Iris and Roman's journey, making all the intense moments and emotional turmoil feel worthwhile. It gave me that warm, satisfying glow you get from a 5-star read, much like the comforting scent of a mulberry and sugar plum candle. It's a hard-won peace, full of hope, but also reflective of the struggles endured. You'll definitely want to have tissues ready!
Overall, "Ruthless Vows" is a magnificent conclusion to a truly special duology. If you've been on the fence, or if you're looking for a fantasy romance that blends war, magic, gods, and an unforgettable found family narrative with a deeply emotional and satisfying ending, then pick this up immediately. You won't regret diving back into this world.