Synopsis
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.
Rating
★★★★
Thoughts
I finally got to see how Iris and Roman’s story played out after eagerly awaiting this book since finishing Divine Rivals, book #1 in the Letters of Enchantment duology, back in October! While it was a great story to start the new year with, I must admit that it felt just a bit lackluster. While Divine Rivals was a strong five-star, Ruthless Vows is a hardy four-star.
There are lots of things to love about this book. Ross’s writing is enchanting to read. Iris and Roman are such a beautiful couple. And I think that there is some satisfaction in the story’s ending.
I was expecting more from this book after the conclusion of the last. I wanted stronger emotion from our main characters and greater action from the gods. I needed more of a crescendo. I couldn’t help but feel a tad bit underwhelmed. Nevertheless, this was a lovely story to read.
Quote
“I would love to see you burn with splendor. I would love to see your words catch fire with mine.”