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A review by theboundless_bookworm
Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross
4.0
It has been over a year since I last delved into a fantasy book, and deciding which one to read proved to be a challenge. While initially leaning towards the "Fourth Wing," I made a last-minute decision to explore "Divine Rivals," and I'm truly glad I did. I have a fondness for epistolary novels as they portray literary romance in a raw and emotionally intense manner, which is precisely why I found this book so captivating.
The enemies-to-lovers trope between Iris and Roman didn't stem from any childish repertoire or simple abhorrence; rather, their clash had a justifiable root: professional rivalry. Both are vying to become an editor at Oath Gazette. Just as a reader thinks the plot would center around their competition, the story jumps into the actuality of war, placing both of them in the middle of it.
Perhaps my only misgiving is the lack of explanation regarding what the war is about. It has to be more than just a pissed-off god seeking revenge on his rival (the one that got away), right? The focus of the sequel should be on this element because, even though mythology retellings are a tired plot device, when done well, they can still make for a compelling story.
Enchanting, lyrical, and atmospheric, "Divine Rivals" is another YA fantasy that manages to include a heavier theme for discussion. It delves into the ramifications of war and underscores the crucial role of war correspondents in disseminating news to the world. Ross was able to create a novel that caters to young adults, explaining how war is divided into two aspects: those who created it and those who were forced to be in it. Is it apt to say that the book is relevant to what is happening in the world today? I believe so. The silver lining perhaps lies in the magic that love still flourishes even at the worst of times.
The sequel arrives in a few weeks, and there's a high chance I'll be reading it on its publication day.
The enemies-to-lovers trope between Iris and Roman didn't stem from any childish repertoire or simple abhorrence; rather, their clash had a justifiable root: professional rivalry. Both are vying to become an editor at Oath Gazette. Just as a reader thinks the plot would center around their competition, the story jumps into the actuality of war, placing both of them in the middle of it.
Perhaps my only misgiving is the lack of explanation regarding what the war is about. It has to be more than just a pissed-off god seeking revenge on his rival (the one that got away), right? The focus of the sequel should be on this element because, even though mythology retellings are a tired plot device, when done well, they can still make for a compelling story.
Enchanting, lyrical, and atmospheric, "Divine Rivals" is another YA fantasy that manages to include a heavier theme for discussion. It delves into the ramifications of war and underscores the crucial role of war correspondents in disseminating news to the world. Ross was able to create a novel that caters to young adults, explaining how war is divided into two aspects: those who created it and those who were forced to be in it. Is it apt to say that the book is relevant to what is happening in the world today? I believe so. The silver lining perhaps lies in the magic that love still flourishes even at the worst of times.
The sequel arrives in a few weeks, and there's a high chance I'll be reading it on its publication day.