Completed duology!
This book did not disappoint. The writing is beautiful, the world rich with heartbreak and sorrow.
I saw some people were disappointed that there wasn't more about the gods. However, this is not a 'high' fantasy. This is a YA story about two people falling in love. There was enough world building to ground the story and the fact we don't know much about the gods is pretty true to life.
Have you read it and what did you think?
#Rebeccaross #ruthlessvows #bookcommunity #bookishthings #epicreads #lovebook #BookReview #lemon8bookclub
After diving deep into the world of 'Ruthless Vows' by Rebecca Ross, I can honestly say it's solidified my love for YA fantasy romance duologies. There's something so incredibly satisfying about a two-book series – just enough time to fall completely in love with the characters and world, without feeling stretched out over too many installments. This duology, beginning with the equally captivating 'Divine Rivals' and culminating in 'Ruthless Vows,' is a prime example of how to get that balance just right. For anyone specifically hunting for a truly immersive 'love story from the end of the world,' you absolutely need to pick this up. The stakes here are incredibly high, with a brutal war between gods threatening to consume everything. Yet, despite the grand scale of conflict, at its heart, it’s the poignant, powerful romance between Iris Winnow and Roman Kitt that truly drives the narrative. Their connection, their journey, their struggles, sacrifices, and unwavering devotion are so beautifully written and unfold in a way that makes for an unforgettable experience. It’s that perfect blend of an epic fantasy backdrop with a deeply personal, emotional core that I always look for. The image OCR also highlighted the 'romance and longing' – and believe me, 'Ruthless Vows' delivers on that in spades! What I particularly appreciate about this series is how it manages to tell a sweeping fantasy story without becoming 'high' fantasy in the traditional, often dense, sense. Instead, it grounds its fantastical elements in a way that allows the characters' human emotions, their relationships, and their personal growth to shine. It's truly a quintessential YA story about first love, profound loss, finding your voice, and discovering your strength amidst chaos. The world-building is rich enough to transport you to another realm, but it never overwhelms the intimate character development. This focus makes it incredibly accessible for those new to fantasy, or for seasoned readers who crave character-driven plots. If you're like me and constantly searching for compelling YA duologies that offer both magic and heartfelt romance, this series deserves a prime spot on your shelf. The 'epic conclusion' mentioned in the OCR isn't an exaggeration; it ties everything up in such a satisfying and emotional way, leaving you with that warm, bittersweet feeling only the best stories can provide. It's a journey filled with hardship and hope, and the resolution for Iris and Roman definitely earns its 'five-star rating' from me. I wholeheartedly recommend 'Ruthless Vows' and its predecessor 'Divine Rivals' to fellow book lovers seeking a powerful fantasy romance. Have you read them? I'd love to hear your thoughts on this fantastic duology!
