Book: Ruthless Vows by Rebecca Ross
Reviewed by Ashley M
Rating: 5/5
Plot Summary: Picking up after the cliffhanger of Divine Rivals , Iris Winnow must navigate a war-torn landscape to find Roman Kitt, who has been stripped of his memories by the god Dacre. To save him and the world, she must journey into the Under Realm and find a way to break through the walls Dacre has built in Roman's mind.
Writing Style & Pacing: A "masterclass" in concluding a story. Ross uses lyrical, gorgeous, and gut-wrenching prose that balances cosmic stakes with intimate, quiet devastation.
Character Development: Iris shines as a resourceful and brave protagonist whose journalistic drive becomes her greatest weapon. Roman’s arc of regaining his identity is handled with "incredible sensitivity."
World-Building: Expands into the Under Realm and introduces the concept of magical ley lines used as shelters during divine bombings.
Emotional Impact: A "searing, relentless fight for survival." The heart-stopping moments of recognition and the emotional payoff of the reunion are described as "worth every page."
Themes & Messages: The resilience of the human heart, the power of written words to overcome oblivion, and the enduring nature of true love against the "scars that war leaves behind."
Content Warnings: War-related violence, psychological manipulation/memory loss, and grief.
Recommendation & Rating: A "triumphant end" to an outstanding romantasy duology. Highly recommended for fans of wartime romance and "lost identity" tropes.