“Divine Rivals,” the first book in the “Letters of Enchantment” duology by the incomparable Rebecca Ross, was my favorite read of 2023 and possibly of my life. 

I was on pins and needles for “Ruthless Vows” to publish because I just had to know what happened to my fictional favs. When my library hold came through (I was too impatient to wait for my copies to be delivered in the mail), I dragged my feet on starting it. I read a few chapters at a time, reluctant to start because I would be that much closer to the end. But just like with “Divine Rivals,” Ross’s words pulled me into the story and before I knew it I couldn’t read fast enough. 

“Ruthless Vows” had its publication date pushed up several months because of how popular the first book became and I admit I was initially concerned that it might affect the quality of the finished work. My fears were unfounded. “Ruthless Vows” was a sensational story and an excellent sequel. It introduced a great new character, expanded the roles of previous side characters, and fulfilled the plot established in the first book in an extremely satisfying way. 

Just as with “Divine Rivals,” there was equal portions of joy and sorrow that balanced the story and made it feel so realistic. Ross also did an admirable job blending  fantasy elements with a war based on the World Wars. 

Another thing that I really admired is how Ross included some unlikeable characters. In the first book, one of the main characters is almost cartoonishly villainous, but his character has evolved in the sequel to be a bit more realistic. There is also an unlikeable character, who I thought was going to have a redemption arc but didn’t actually. And I loved that!

I am heartbroken to be writing this review because it means the book is over. If you haven’t already, bump “The Letters of Enchantment” duology up on your TBR. You won’t regret it.