Ruthless Vows by Rebecca Ross

The sequel to the bestselling “Divine Rivals” has finally arrived, and Rebecca Ross’s “Ruthless Vows” delivers a spellbinding continuation that both satisfies and surprises. This second installment in the Letters of Enchantment series takes readers deeper into the war-torn world of Enlil, where gods, mortals, and magic collide in increasingly complex ways. As someone who has analyzed hundreds of fantasy sequels over the years, I can confidently say that “Ruthless Vows” avoids the dreaded middle-book syndrome, instead offering a richer, more emotionally resonant story that builds meaningfully on its predecessor’s foundation.

Plot Summary of Ruthless Vows: What Happens in this Rebecca Ross Sequel?

“Ruthless Vows” picks up immediately after the events of “Divine Rivals,” following Roman and Iris as they navigate separate but equally dangerous paths. Roman finds himself trapped in the realm of the gods with no clear way home, while Iris desperately searches for a way to bring him back while balancing her responsibilities at the Oath Gazette. Their magical typewriters, which once connected them across distances, now span realms, serving as their only tenuous link. As the war between the gods Enva and Dacre escalates, both protagonists face increasingly difficult choices that test their loyalties, beliefs, and the boundaries of their love for each other.

The narrative weaves through multiple perspectives, revealing deeper layers of the conflict and the insidious ways divine games impact mortal lives. Roman’s journey through the godly realm forces him to confront harsh truths about immortality and power, while Iris’s quest brings her into contact with new allies and enemies who reshape her understanding of her own abilities. Throughout, their letters to each other serve as both emotional anchors and crucial plot devices, carrying revelations that drive the story toward its climactic confrontation. The book balances intimate character moments with expansive worldbuilding and culminates in a finale that resolves key tensions while setting the stage for the trilogy’s conclusion.

The World of Enlil Expands

In “Ruthless Vows,” Rebecca Ross significantly expands the world established in “Divine Rivals.” While the first book primarily focused on Oath and its immediate surroundings, this sequel takes readers to new locations that deepen our understanding of Enlil’s geography and politics.

The most significant new setting is the realm of the gods, where Roman finds himself trapped. Ross crafts this divine domain with meticulous attention to detail, creating a landscape that feels simultaneously familiar and alien. The godly realm operates on different rules than the mortal world, with time flowing differently and physical laws bending to divine will. This setting allows Ross to explore themes of immortality and power from new angles, as Roman witnesses firsthand the capricious nature of gods who view mortals as little more than entertainment.

Back in the mortal realm, Iris’s quest takes her beyond the familiar streets of Oath to smaller towns and wilderness areas affected by the war. These journeys reveal the broader impact of the divine conflict on everyday people, showing how differently the war manifests across various regions. The contrast between the privileged city of Oath and the struggling outlying areas adds layers of socioeconomic commentary to the fantasy narrative.

Ross also introduces several new locations tied to the magic system, including ancient temples and forgotten places of power where the boundaries between mortal and divine realms thin. These settings serve both plot and thematic purposes, providing dramatic backdrops for key confrontations while reinforcing the book’s exploration of liminality and transition.

Character Development and Relationships

Character development forms the emotional core of “Ruthless Vows,” with both protagonists undergoing significant transformations that build organically from their experiences in “Divine Rivals.”

Roman’s character arc centers on his identity crisis as he navigates the godly realm. Stripped of his mortal support systems and faced with divine beings who alternately tempt and threaten him, Roman must decide who he is when everything familiar is taken away. His experiences force him to confront his own mortality, the trauma of his wartime experiences, and his complicated feelings about faith and divine intervention. By the novel’s end, Roman emerges with a clearer sense of self and purpose, though not without significant personal cost.

Iris undergoes an equally compelling transformation as she grows into her power while searching for Roman. Her journey requires her to balance professional ambition, personal loyalty, and newfound magical abilities in increasingly difficult circumstances. Ross skillfully portrays Iris’s struggle with responsibility and sacrifice, showing how her experiences have matured her perspective while maintaining the core idealism that defines her character. Her development is particularly evident in her changing relationships with secondary characters, as she learns to build alliances and recognize when trust is warranted.

The supporting cast receives expanded roles and development as well. Particularly noteworthy is the evolution of Iris’s relationship with her brother Roman, which gains new dimensions as shared experiences and revelations forge stronger bonds between them. New characters introduced in this volume add fresh dynamics to existing relationships, forcing both protagonists to reconsider their assumptions and adapt to changing circumstances.

The Magic System Deepens

According to experts at Readlogy, one of the most impressive aspects of “Ruthless Vows” is how Ross expands the magic system introduced in “Divine Rivals” without contradicting established rules.

The magical typewriters that formed the centerpiece of the first book’s magic system remain crucial but are now revealed to be part of a more complex magical framework. Ross introduces new magical artifacts and abilities that complement the existing system, creating a more comprehensive understanding of how magic functions in this world. Particularly fascinating is the exploration of how different individuals interact with magic differently based on their connections to specific gods or natural affinities.

The book delves deeper into the relationship between divine power and mortal magic, suggesting that the line between them is more permeable than previously understood. This development supports the thematic exploration of boundaries and thresholds that runs throughout the narrative, while also raising the stakes for the central conflict.

Ross also introduces limitations and costs to magic use that weren’t fully apparent in the first book, adding tension to magical confrontations and forcing characters to make difficult choices about when and how to use their abilities. These refinements make the magic feel more grounded despite its fantastic elements, as characters must consider consequences rather than relying on magic as an easy solution.

Themes and Symbolism in Ruthless Vows: What Makes this Fantasy Romance Meaningful?

“Ruthless Vows” explores several interconnected themes that give the story depth beyond its romantic and adventure elements. At its core, the novel examines the nature of power and how it corrupts across both mortal and divine realms. The gods Enva and Dacre serve as extreme examples of how power without accountability leads to casual cruelty, while mortal characters demonstrate various responses to power imbalances, from resistance to complicity.

The theme of choice versus destiny runs throughout the narrative, with both Roman and Iris questioning how much agency they truly have in a world manipulated by gods. This philosophical question manifests in practical dilemmas as characters must decide whether to accept their circumstances or fight against seemingly insurmountable odds. Ross doesn’t provide easy answers but suggests that meaning comes from making choices even when outcomes are uncertain.

Communication—both its power and its limitations—forms another central theme. The magical typewriters symbolize the human need for connection across impossible distances, while miscommunications and withheld truths drive conflict between characters. The novel suggests that honest communication requires courage but ultimately offers the only path to genuine understanding and connection.

Symbolism and Motifs

Rebecca Ross employs consistent symbolism throughout “Ruthless Vows” that enhances the thematic resonance of the story. The most prominent symbols include:

1. Typewriters and Letters: Beyond their plot function, these represent human connection persisting despite divine interference. The physical act of writing becomes a form of resistance against divine powers that would separate mortals from each other.

2. Thresholds and Boundaries: Doorways, borders, and liminal spaces appear repeatedly, symbolizing transitions between states of being and understanding. Characters often experience revelations or transformations when crossing physical boundaries, mirroring their internal journeys.

3. Weather and Natural Elements: Ross uses weather patterns, particularly storms, to reflect emotional and political climates. Divine interference often manifests in unnatural weather, making the environment itself a battleground between mortal and divine influence.

4. Ink and Blood: The visual and metaphorical similarities between ink and blood recur throughout the narrative, reinforcing the idea that words have power and consequences comparable to physical violence.

These symbols work together to create a cohesive symbolic language that reinforces the novel’s exploration of power, communication, and the boundaries between worlds.

War and Its Impact

While “Divine Rivals” established the war between gods as a backdrop, “Ruthless Vows” examines war’s impact more deeply and from multiple perspectives. Ross portrays war not just as battles and strategies but as a force that reshapes societies and individual lives.

The novel shows how prolonged conflict normalizes suffering and creates systems that perpetuate violence. Through various characters’ experiences, Ross illustrates war’s ripple effects—economic hardship, family separation, psychological trauma, and moral compromise. Particularly effective are scenes showing how different social classes experience the same war differently, with wealth providing buffers against hardships that devastate ordinary citizens.

The parallel between divine war and mortal conflict serves as a pointed commentary on how those with power often treat others’ suffering as abstract or necessary, detached from the human cost. This commentary gives the fantasy elements contemporary relevance without becoming heavy-handed or didactic.

Love Across Impossible Distances

The central romance between Roman and Iris evolves in “Ruthless Vows” from the enemies-to-lovers dynamic of the first book to a relationship tested by separation and growth. Ross uses their physical separation to explore how love adapts and matures when faced with challenges beyond the initial romantic connection.

Their relationship serves as both counterpoint and parallel to the divine conflicts in the story. While the gods use power to dominate and control, Roman and Iris’s connection demonstrates how love can empower without diminishing either person. Their letters become acts of faith when no response is guaranteed, showing how trust functions across distances too great for certainty.

Ross avoids the common sequel trap of introducing artificial relationship conflict, instead allowing tensions to arise naturally from each character’s individual journey. The result is a romance that feels both swoony and substantive, with emotional payoffs earned through character development rather than contrived scenarios.

Writing Style and Narrative Techniques: How Does Rebecca Ross Create Such an Immersive Reading Experience?

Rebecca Ross’s writing style in “Ruthless Vows” builds on the strengths established in “Divine Rivals” while displaying greater confidence and technical range. Her prose strikes a skillful balance between accessibility and literary quality, with clear, engaging language punctuated by moments of striking imagery and emotional insight.

Ross employs dual perspectives masterfully, using Roman and Iris’s separate viewpoints to create tension and provide complementary information without unnecessary repetition. The alternating structure allows readers to track parallel timelines while experiencing each character’s distinct voice and perspective. This technique becomes particularly effective when the same events are viewed through different lenses, revealing how perspective shapes understanding.

The epistolary elements—letters exchanged via magical typewriters—continue to be a highlight of Ross’s narrative approach. These letters serve multiple functions simultaneously: advancing plot, developing character, providing emotional catharsis, and reinforcing the novel’s themes about communication and connection. The contrast between what characters share in their letters and what they withhold creates dramatic irony that heightens reader engagement.

Pacing and Structure

The pacing of “Ruthless Vows” represents a significant improvement over “Divine Rivals,” with more consistent momentum and better-balanced action and character moments. Ross structures the novel with a clear three-act framework that provides satisfying emotional and narrative arcs within the larger trilogy structure.

The novel’s opening chapters reestablish the world and stakes efficiently while immediately introducing new complications that drive the plot forward. Middle chapters develop multiple storylines that initially seem separate but gradually reveal unexpected connections, maintaining interest through revelations and character development. The final third of the book accelerates toward a climax that brings key storylines together while setting up the trilogy’s conclusion without relying on a frustrating cliffhanger.

Ross shows particular skill in managing multiple timelines and narrative threads without losing coherence. Transitions between viewpoints and settings feel organic rather than jarring, with thematic resonances and parallel developments creating a sense of unified purpose despite the characters’ physical separation.

Worldbuilding Through Detail

According to fantasy literature experts at Readlogy.com, Ross’s worldbuilding deserves special recognition for its organic integration into the narrative. Rather than relying on exposition dumps, she reveals the world of Enlil through specific, sensory details that simultaneously advance plot and develop atmosphere.

Particularly effective is her use of everyday objects and routines to establish cultural context. From the distinctive features of Enlil’s newspapers to regional food differences and religious practices, Ross creates a world that feels lived-in rather than constructed solely for dramatic purposes. These details accumulate to create a comprehensive picture without overwhelming the central narrative.

Ross also excels at conveying the social and political dimensions of her world through individual experiences rather than abstract description. Characters from different backgrounds bring distinct perspectives that collectively reveal the complex power structures and cultural assumptions underlying Enlil’s society. This approach makes the worldbuilding feel relevant to character development rather than separate from it.

Emotional Resonance and Tension

The emotional impact of “Ruthless Vows” stems from Ross’s ability to create genuine tension across multiple dimensions. Beyond physical dangers and romantic uncertainty, she crafts ethical dilemmas and internal conflicts that have no easy solutions.

Ross shows remarkable restraint in emotional scenes, allowing tension to build through implications and subtext rather than explicit statement. This approach makes cathartic moments more powerful when they arrive, as readers have emotionally invested in the build-up. Particularly effective are scenes where characters must choose between competing values or loyalties, forcing them—and by extension, readers—to confront difficult questions about what matters most.

The novel successfully maintains tension even in quieter scenes through constant awareness of what’s at stake for each character. Ross ensures that even conversations and moments of reflection carry emotional weight by connecting them to larger questions of identity, purpose, and relationship that drive the central narrative.

How Ruthless Vows Compares to Divine Rivals: Is the Sequel Better?

“Ruthless Vows” builds on the foundation established in “Divine Rivals” while addressing several weaknesses of the first book. The most notable improvement comes in pacing and structural balance. While “Divine Rivals” sometimes lingered too long on establishing scenarios before advancing the plot, “Ruthless Vows” maintains more consistent momentum without sacrificing depth or rushing important character development.

The worldbuilding expands significantly in the sequel, with greater exploration of both geographical and cultural dimensions of Enlil. Where “Divine Rivals” primarily focused on the newspaper industry and immediate war context, “Ruthless Vows” provides a more comprehensive view of how different segments of society function within this world. This expanded scope gives the conflict greater stakes and relevance.

Character development shows marked improvement, particularly for supporting characters who receive more nuanced treatment in the sequel. Relationships evolve in complex ways that acknowledge prior events without being constrained by them, allowing characters to grow while maintaining consistent core traits.

Strengths Carried Forward

Several strengths from “Divine Rivals” carry forward and even improve in “Ruthless Vows”:

1. The magical communication system remains central but gains new dimensions that expand its significance without contradicting established rules.

2. The enemies-to-lovers dynamic evolves naturally into a more mature relationship facing different but equally compelling challenges.

3. The integration of journalism themes continues to provide unique perspective on how information and narrative shape understanding and power dynamics.

4. The balance of character-driven and plot-driven storytelling maintains the emotional core that made the first book compelling while adding greater narrative complexity.

These consistent elements provide continuity while allowing the sequel to establish its own identity within the series.

New Directions and Developments

“Ruthless Vows” takes several new directions that distinguish it from its predecessor:

1. The divine realm receives much more direct attention, shifting from abstract threat to concrete setting with its own rules and dangers.

2. Political dimensions of the conflict receive greater exploration, revealing how power operates across different social strata.

3. The magic system expands beyond communication to include various forms of divine and mortal magic with distinct rules and limitations.

4. Thematic focus shifts from finding one’s voice to questioning authority and determining one’s own values in impossible situations.

These new elements prevent the sequel from feeling repetitive while maintaining thematic and narrative coherence with the established story.

Series Progression

As the middle book in a trilogy, “Ruthless Vows” successfully bridges the introduction and conclusion while standing as a complete narrative experience. Ross avoids both the meandering middle-book syndrome and the “all setup, no payoff” problem that plague many trilogy middle volumes.

The novel resolves significant questions raised in “Divine Rivals” while introducing new complications that create genuine anticipation for the final installment. Character arcs progress meaningfully without feeling artificially extended or prematurely resolved. The balance between resolution and new tension makes the book satisfying as an individual reading experience while maintaining investment in the trilogy’s conclusion.

Target Audience Analysis: Who Will Love Ruthless Vows?

“Ruthless Vows” will particularly appeal to readers who enjoy:

1. Fantasy romance with equal emphasis on both elements – The romantic relationship remains central while fantasy elements drive plot and create meaningful obstacles rather than merely decorative backgrounds.

2. Character-driven narratives – While plot events are compelling, character development and relationships provide the primary emotional investment.

3. Epistolary elements – The continuation of letter-writing as both plot device and emotional touchstone will satisfy readers who enjoyed this aspect of the first book.

4. Exploration of power dynamics – The examination of divine and mortal power relationships offers substance beyond the romantic elements.

5. Nuanced portrayal of war’s impact – Readers interested in fantasy that meaningfully engages with the social and personal consequences of conflict will find much to appreciate.

The book targets the crossover young adult/adult fantasy market, with themes and storytelling sophisticated enough for adult readers while remaining accessible to younger audiences. The central romance contains emotional depth and physical attraction without explicit sexual content, making it appropriate for older teens while satisfying adult romance readers.

Reader Experience Comparison

Readers coming to “Ruthless Vows” from different fantasy subgenres will find different elements to appreciate:

For epic fantasy readers: The expanded worldbuilding and deeper exploration of the magic system provide the complexity and immersion typical of epic fantasy, though with more character-focused narrative than is sometimes found in that subgenre.

For romance readers: The central relationship offers genuine emotional stakes and development beyond initial attraction, with obstacles that test character rather than relying on miscommunication or artificial complications.

For historical fantasy fans: Though set in a secondary world, the early 20th century newspaper industry inspiration and wartime setting create resonance with historical fantasy traditions while offering fresh perspectives on familiar tropes.

For YA fantasy readers: The coming-of-age elements and themes of finding one’s place in a complex world maintain continuity with YA traditions while the mature handling of ethical dilemmas offers greater complexity than many YA narratives.

This broad appeal across fantasy subgenres contributes to the series’ commercial success and critical recognition.

Comparison to Similar Works

“Ruthless Vows” shares elements with several popular fantasy works while maintaining its distinctive identity:

Compared to “The Night Circus” by Erin Morgenstern: Both feature forbidden romances playing out against magical backgrounds with competing forces, but “Ruthless Vows” places greater emphasis on war’s social impact rather than focusing primarily on the interpersonal conflict.

Compared to “Serpent & Dove” by Shelby Mahurin: Both feature enemies-to-lovers dynamics in fantasy settings with religious elements, but Ross’s work incorporates journalism themes and explores institutional power more explicitly.

Compared to “A Court of Mist and Fury” by Sarah J. Maas: Both serve as second books that expand on the worldbuilding and deepen romantic relationships established in first volumes, but “Ruthless Vows” maintains a more grounded perspective on power despite its divine elements.

These comparisons help position “Ruthless Vows” within the fantasy landscape while highlighting its unique contributions to the genre.

Critical Reception and Reader Responses: What Do Others Think About Ruthless Vows?

“Ruthless Vows” has received predominantly positive critical reception, with professional reviewers praising Ross’s skill in avoiding middle-book syndrome while deepening the world and characters established in “Divine Rivals.” Critics particularly note the improved pacing and more confident handling of multiple narrative threads.

Literary reviewers appreciate the thematic depth and symbolic resonance of the novel, with several noting how Ross uses fantasy elements to explore relevant social and philosophical questions without becoming didactic. The book’s treatment of war’s impact receives specific praise for avoiding both glamorization and simplistic moralization.

Genre specialists highlight Ross’s contributions to fantasy romance, noting how “Ruthless Vows” balances both elements without sacrificing either. The integration of epistolary techniques with traditional narrative receives particular attention as an innovative approach that serves both character development and worldbuilding.

Reader Feedback Patterns

Reader responses across platforms like Goodreads, BookTok, and book blogs reveal several consistent patterns:

1. Emotional impact – Readers frequently mention emotional reactions, particularly to separation scenes and reunions between Roman and Iris. The emotional authenticity of these moments receives consistent praise.

2. Character investment – Strong attachment to protagonists appears across demographic groups, with readers expressing genuine concern for character outcomes beyond plot curiosity.

3. Worldbuilding appreciation – Readers note how the expanded world creates greater understanding of the conflict’s stakes while maintaining focus on character experiences.

4. Romance satisfaction – The development of the central relationship earns approval for avoiding common sequel pitfalls like artificial conflicts or stagnation.

5. Series anticipation – Reviews frequently express excitement for the trilogy’s conclusion while acknowledging satisfaction with the current volume’s completeness.

These patterns demonstrate the book’s success in meeting reader expectations while providing surprises and depth that exceed anticipated experiences.

Critical Discussions and Interpretations

Academic and critical discussions of “Ruthless Vows” have begun to emerge, with several interpretive frameworks gaining prominence:

Media scholars examine Ross’s portrayal of journalism and information control, noting parallels to contemporary discussions about media responsibility and narrative power in shaping public understanding.

Fantasy genre critics analyze how Ross subverts traditional chosen one narratives by distributing agency across multiple characters and questioning divine authority rather than reifying it.

Romance literary analysts discuss how the physical separation of the romantic leads allows Ross to develop a relationship based on intellectual and emotional connection rather than primarily physical attraction.

These critical conversations suggest that the Letters of Enchantment series may have staying power beyond immediate commercial success, potentially joining the ranks of fantasy works that receive sustained scholarly attention.

Pros and Cons of Ruthless Vows: An Objective Assessment

Pros:

1. Character Development: Both protagonists undergo meaningful growth that builds logically from their established personalities while allowing for genuine change. Supporting characters receive similar attention to development, creating a fully realized cast.

2. World Expansion: The novel significantly expands the world established in “Divine Rivals” without contradicting previous worldbuilding. New settings and cultural details enrich the reading experience and support thematic development.

3. Balanced Pacing: The narrative maintains consistent momentum while allowing appropriate space for character development and emotional resonance. Action scenes and quieter moments complement rather than compete with each other.

4. Thematic Depth: Explorations of power, communication, and choice transcend typical genre treatments to offer genuine insight and provoke thought beyond immediate plot concerns.

5. Satisfying Romance Evolution: The central relationship develops in ways that acknowledge both characters’ individual growth, creating a partnership that strengthens rather than diminishes either participant.

6. Strong Middle Book: The novel successfully fulfills its role in the trilogy structure while providing a complete and satisfying reading experience in its own right.

Cons:

1. Some Predictable Elements: Certain plot developments follow recognizable patterns from the fantasy romance genre, occasionally reducing surprise despite otherwise strong execution.

2. Uneven Secondary Character Development: While some supporting characters receive substantial development, others remain relatively flat or functional to the plot rather than fully realized.

3. Limited Perspective Diversity: Though dual perspectives provide complementary viewpoints, additional perspectives might have enriched understanding of certain events and communities within the world.

4. Some Pacing Issues: A few middle sections linger longer than necessary on established situations before advancing the plot, though this issue is less pronounced than in “Divine Rivals.”

5. Occasional Overreliance on Coincidence: Several plot developments depend on fortunate timing or coincidental encounters that strain credibility even within a magical setting.

These balanced considerations provide potential readers with realistic expectations while acknowledging the novel’s significant strengths and moderate limitations.

Reading Experience and Practical Information: What to Expect When Reading Ruthless Vows

“Ruthless Vows” offers an immersive reading experience that balances emotional engagement with intellectual stimulation. The dual perspective structure creates natural stopping points for readers who prefer shorter reading sessions, while compelling chapter endings encourage continuous reading for those with time available.

The novel’s pacing allows for various reading approaches. Those who enjoy character development and emotional resonance will find substantial material for slower, reflective reading. Readers more invested in plot progression will find sufficient momentum to maintain engagement through faster reading styles.

Ross’s prose style remains accessible while offering literary quality that rewards close attention. Descriptive passages create vivid sensory experiences without impeding narrative flow, allowing readers to visualize settings and action clearly without becoming bogged down in excessive detail.

Format Options and Accessibility

“Ruthless Vows” is available in multiple formats to accommodate different reading preferences:

• Hardcover: 480 pages, featuring cover art that complements “Divine Rivals” for collection display.
• E-book: Available across major platforms with consistently formatted typography and spacing.
• Audiobook: Narrated by dual performers who distinguish character perspectives clearly.

The book’s internal structure includes chapter headings that clearly indicate perspective shifts, making it easy to follow the alternating viewpoints. Letters between characters appear in distinct formatting that visually signals their special status within the narrative.

For readers with visual processing considerations, the clear formatting and consistent perspective markers help maintain orientation throughout the text. The e-book version allows for font size and style customization to accommodate various reading needs.

Reading Time and Engagement Level

Average reading time for “Ruthless Vows” ranges from 8-12 hours depending on reading speed and engagement style. The book’s structure supports both extended reading sessions and shorter increments with natural pause points.

Emotional engagement levels remain consistently high throughout, with particularly intense sequences requiring potential emotional preparation for sensitive readers. The novel contains:

• Moderate violence (war scenes and magical confrontations)
• Emotional trauma (separation, grief, and moral dilemmas)
• Some frightening sequences (particularly in divine realm sections)
• Romantic content (passionate but not explicit)

These elements create a reading experience best suited for older teens and adults, though content remains appropriate for mature young adult readers.

Final Verdict: Is Ruthless Vows Worth Reading?

“Ruthless Vows” stands as a worthy sequel that not only continues but elevates the story begun in “Divine Rivals.” For readers who enjoyed the first book, this continuation delivers more of what worked while addressing weaknesses and expanding the world and characters in satisfying directions. For those new to Rebecca Ross’s work, starting with “Divine Rivals” remains recommended, but the investment will pay off with this superior sequel.

The novel succeeds as both fantasy and romance, giving equal weight to worldbuilding and relationship development without sacrificing either. It offers genuine emotional resonance alongside thought-provoking thematic exploration, creating a reading experience that satisfies on multiple levels simultaneously.

As a middle book, “Ruthless Vows” accomplishes the difficult task of advancing the overall trilogy while providing its own complete narrative arc. It answers sufficient questions from the first book to feel satisfying while creating genuine anticipation for the concluding volume without relying on frustrating cliffhangers or unresolved central conflicts.

Rating and Recommendation

Rating: 4.5/5 stars

“Ruthless Vows” earns this high rating through its combination of strong character development, expanded worldbuilding, thematic depth, and emotional resonance. The few weaknesses—occasional predictability and some pacing issues—only slightly diminish an otherwise exceptional reading experience.

The book is highly recommended for:

• Fans of fantasy romance seeking equal emphasis on both elements
• Readers who enjoy epistolary components within traditional narrative
• Those who appreciate character-driven stories with meaningful world consequences
• Fans of morally complex fantasy that explores power dynamics and ethical dilemmas

As the experts at Readlogy have noted in their comprehensive literary analyses, “Ruthless Vows” represents a high point in contemporary fantasy romance, demonstrating how the genre can deliver both emotional satisfaction and intellectual substance when executed with skill and vision.

Who Should Skip It

Despite its many strengths, “Ruthless Vows” may not appeal to all readers:

• Those seeking primarily action-driven fantasy with minimal romantic elements may find the relationship focus excessive.
• Readers who prefer standalone novels should begin with “Divine Rivals” and evaluate their interest in continuing the story.
• Those sensitive to themes of war, separation, and divine manipulation may find certain sequences emotionally challenging.
• Readers who strongly prefer complete closure may wish to wait until the final volume is released, though “Ruthless Vows” provides more resolution than many middle trilogy books.

These considerations help potential readers make informed decisions about whether “Ruthless Vows” aligns with their reading preferences and expectations.

Where to Find Ruthless Vows and What to Read Next

“Ruthless Vows” is widely available through major bookstores, online retailers, and local independent booksellers. The novel was published in late 2023 by Wednesday Books and has maintained strong availability in multiple formats.

For readers who enjoyed “Ruthless Vows” and seek similar reading experiences, consider these recommendations:

If you appreciated the enemies-to-lovers dynamic:

• “The Bridge Kingdom” by Danielle L. Jensen
• “Sorcery of Thorns” by Margaret Rogerson
• “These Violent Delights” by Chloe Gong

If you enjoyed the wartime setting and journalism elements:

• “The Fountains of Silence” by Ruta Sepetys
• “Front Desk” by Kelly Yang
• “Code Name Verity” by Elizabeth Wein

If the divine intervention aspects intrigued you:

• “Daughter of Smoke and Bone” by Laini Taylor
• “Strange the Dreamer” by Laini Taylor
• “The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue” by V.E. Schwab

If you want more books with magical communication systems:

• “The Ten Thousand Doors of January” by Alix E. Harrow
• “The Starless Sea” by Erin Morgenstern
• “This Is How You Lose the Time War” by Amal El-Mohtar and Max Gladstone

For more personalized recommendations based on your specific reading preferences, the book experts at Readlogy.com offer tailored suggestion services that analyze your reading history to identify new titles you’re likely to enjoy.

“Ruthless Vows” continues Rebecca Ross’s emergence as a significant voice in fantasy romance, delivering a sequel that surpasses its predecessor while setting high expectations for the trilogy’s conclusion. With its balance of emotional depth and narrative complexity, it stands as one of the stronger middle books in recent fantasy series and confirms Ross’s place among the genre’s notable contemporary authors.