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A review by asipofcozy
A Rival Most Vial by R.K. Ashwick
adventurous
emotional
funny
lighthearted
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
If looking for something "similar" (not like) Legends and Lattes but with more sustenance, then I highly recommend picking up A Rival Most Vial. It has everything one would want in a cozy fantasy, but with a little more fantasy, low-stakes, and a lot more romance thrown in.
I was instantly enraptured in the world, the diverse cast of characters, and the low-stakes plot. For a cozy low-stakes fantasy, we were given a lot about the world and it was wonderful. I loved learning about all the creatures that existed in this world and how they interacted with each other. The dungeon and dragons vibes were coming to life and I was here for it.
And the characters are all cinnamon rolls that you want to bundle up and hold close, especially Ambrose. The character development between Ames and Eli really hit home and you got to see that slow progression from rivals to lovers (the best trope out there). With Ambrose, we got to see a lot behind his character. He comes off as a know-it-all with his nose in the air when it comes to his mastery in potion making. However, as we delve deeper into the book, we get more of his sad story and his true fear of abandonment.
Then with Eli we get this happy-go-lucky man who is excited for his new career path. However, we also see get to see him overcome his own woes of internalized fear of sticking with just one thing and fear of failure. But watching them grow together was what really hit home for me.
When a book makes me laugh, smile not stop, squeal over the romantic moments, and just make me feel things it becomes an instant favorite.
I can't wait to read more of what Ashwick writes in this world.
I was instantly enraptured in the world, the diverse cast of characters, and the low-stakes plot. For a cozy low-stakes fantasy, we were given a lot about the world and it was wonderful. I loved learning about all the creatures that existed in this world and how they interacted with each other. The dungeon and dragons vibes were coming to life and I was here for it.
And the characters are all cinnamon rolls that you want to bundle up and hold close, especially Ambrose. The character development between Ames and Eli really hit home and you got to see that slow progression from rivals to lovers (the best trope out there). With Ambrose, we got to see a lot behind his character. He comes off as a know-it-all with his nose in the air when it comes to his mastery in potion making. However, as we delve deeper into the book, we get more of his sad story and his true fear of abandonment.
Then with Eli we get this happy-go-lucky man who is excited for his new career path. However, we also see get to see him overcome his own woes of internalized fear of sticking with just one thing and fear of failure. But watching them grow together was what really hit home for me.
When a book makes me laugh, smile not stop, squeal over the romantic moments, and just make me feel things it becomes an instant favorite.
I can't wait to read more of what Ashwick writes in this world.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Abandonment
Minor: Child abuse