My book review of Ruthless Vows by Rebecca Ross. An enthralling fantasy that seamlessly weaves together themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the complexities of love against a backdrop of political intrigue and rich world-building.
Title: Ruthless Vows
By: Rebecca Ross
Genre: Fantasy
Pages: 420
Release Date: December 26th, 2023
Publisher: Wednesday Books
Rating: ★★★★★
Summary from Goodreads:
The epic conclusion to the intensely romantic and beautifully written story that started in Divine Rivals.
Two weeks have passed since Iris Winnow returned home bruised and heartbroken from the front, but the war is far from over. Roman is missing, and the city of Oath continues to dwell in a state of disbelief and ignorance. When Iris and Attie are given another chance to report on Dacre’s movements, they both take the opportunity and head westward once more despite the danger, knowing it’s only a matter of time before the conflict reaches a city that’s unprepared and fracturing beneath the chancellor’s reign.
Since waking below in Dacre’s realm, Roman cannot remember his past. But given the reassurance that his memories will return in time, Roman begins to write articles for Dacre, uncertain of his place in the greater scheme of the war. When a strange letter arrives by wardrobe door, Roman is first suspicious, then intrigued. As he strikes up a correspondence with his mysterious pen pal, Roman will soon have to make a decision: to stand with Dacre or betray the god who healed him. And as the days grow darker, inevitably drawing Roman and Iris closer together…the two of them will risk their very hearts and futures to change the tides of the war.
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Review:
Rebecca Ross’s Ruthless Vows serves as the epic conclusion to the captivating tale that began in Divine Rivals. The story picks up two weeks after Iris Winnow returns home bruised and heartbroken, but the war is far from over. With Roman missing and the city of Oath in disbelief, Iris and her friend Attie seize another chance to report on Dacre’s movements, heading west despite the looming danger. Ross masterfully builds tension as the characters navigate a city unprepared for the encroaching conflict, creating a gripping narrative that keeps readers on edge.
The character development shines through as Roman awakens in Dacre’s realm, unable to remember his past. His gradual journey of self-discovery, alongside his correspondence with a mysterious pen pal, adds layers to the story. The internal conflict he faces—whether to align with Dacre or to embrace the god who healed him—serves as a powerful exploration of loyalty and choice. Iris’s determination to reconnect with Roman while navigating her own fears adds emotional depth, showcasing Ross’s ability to craft relatable and complex characters.
Themes of love, sacrifice, and the consequences of war permeate the narrative. Ross skillfully addresses the weight of choices in a time of turmoil, compelling readers to reflect on the cost of loyalty and the strength of love in the face of adversity. The pacing is expertly managed, with a blend of action and introspection that propels the story forward and keeps the reader invested.
The conclusion of Ruthless Vows is both satisfying and thought-provoking, weaving together the threads of romance and war in a way that resonates deeply. With its lush world-building and richly developed characters, this novel is a stunning finale to a beautifully crafted series. Ross has created a memorable journey that will leave readers eagerly anticipating her next work.
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