Book Review: Divine Rivals: A Novel (Letters of Enchantment, 1) by Rebecca Ross
When I stumbled across Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross, I felt a magnetic pull. The combination of magic, war, and the complexities of young love against a backdrop of gods felt tantalizingly rich. As a sucker for enemies-to-lovers narratives, I was immediately intrigued by how Ross would weave these elements together, especially with the added unique twist of letters—an ancient form of connection that feels particularly poignant in our digital age.
Set in a tumultuous world reawakening with divine conflict, Divine Rivals tells the story of Iris Winnow, a young journalist trying to hold her family together amidst chaos. With her brother on the front lines and her mother battling addiction, Iris is merely trying to grab a semblance of control by winning a columnist promotion at the Oath Gazette. What makes her story compelling is not just her ambition but her secret correspondence with her rival, Roman Kitt. As their letters slip under her wardrobe door, they quickly evolve into a profound connection that deepens the themes of love and sacrifice, set against the backdrop of gods battling for dominance.
Ross’s writing is nothing short of enchanting; her prose flows like poetry, creating vivid imagery that pulls you in from the very first page. The emotions run raw and real, allowing readers to share in Iris’s hope, despair, and passion. One of my favorite lines captures it perfectly: “Perhaps it begins with one person…to welcome people to see you as you are.” This message resonates deeply, especially in today’s divisive world where vulnerability feels like both a strength and a risk.
The novel’s pacing exemplifies the slow-burn romance many readers crave, though I must admit there were moments when I wished the plot moved a little faster, especially leading up to the climactic moments. The interplay of mythology and the human experience is masterfully constructed, although the origins of the gods’ conflict felt slightly overshadowed by the personal journeys of Iris and Roman.
What truly leaves an impression are the themes of love and longing. The way the characters’ connection evolves through their exchanges serves as a reminder of the power of words—and how they can bridge the gap between rivalries. Early on, Roman’s cold demeanor masks a deeper guilt and vulnerability, making his correspondence with Iris not just a competition, but a canvas for emotional exploration.
Divine Rivals is more than just a fantasy novel; it’s a poignant reflection on love, loss, and the quest for identity amidst chaos. I would recommend it to lovers of YA and romantic fantasy, especially fans of authors like Sarah J. Maas or VE Schwab. It’s the kind of book that stays with you, leaving your heart in a beautiful shambles as you anticipate the next installment.
For me, reading Divine Rivals was a journey of both heart and soul. It’s the kind of story that reminds us of the resilience of hope, even in the darkest of times, and I’m eagerly awaiting what Rebecca Ross has in store for us next. If you haven’t picked up this gem yet, trust me—you won’t want to miss it!
You can find Divine Rivals: A Novel (Letters of Enchantment, 1) here >>