In a market flooded with fantasy novels, it takes something truly special to stand out. Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross does just that — offering readers a beautifully written, emotionally rich story that weaves together romance, war, and the power of the written word. It’s a book that speaks softly but leaves a lasting echo.
A Magical Yet Grounded Premise
Set in a fictional world where ancient gods have awakened and gone to war, Divine Rivals introduces us to Iris Winnow, a young journalist trying to hold her life together after the disappearance of her brother and the collapse of her family. She’s determined, vulnerable, and refreshingly real.
To cope with the pain and uncertainty, Iris begins writing heartfelt letters to her brother and slipping them beneath her wardrobe door — not expecting a reply. But one day, someone writes back. What she doesn’t realize is that her letters have somehow reached Roman Kitt, her polished, mysterious rival at the newspaper where she works.
What follows is a slow, tender unraveling of identities, emotions, and hidden truths. The two continue to exchange letters anonymously, unknowingly falling for each other while also navigating the mounting tension of a world on the brink of collapse.
Romance Told Through Letters
The epistolary format — storytelling through letters — adds a layer of intimacy that modern novels often lack. It allows readers to get deeply personal insights into both Iris and Roman, letting their feelings unfold naturally, word by word, line by line.
Their romance is anything but rushed. It’s thoughtful and deeply emotional, founded on shared vulnerabilities rather than surface-level attraction. This isn’t just a story about two people falling in love — it’s about how they fall, and how they find comfort in a world that’s anything but comforting.
Rebecca Ross handles the emotional weight of their connection with a delicate touch. The chemistry is subtle, the buildup is patient, and the payoff is genuinely rewarding.
War, Grief, and the Gods Among Us
While the love story is the heart of the book, the backdrop is just as compelling. The war between the gods isn’t just a mythological subplot — it directly affects every character, decision, and turning point. Ross creates a world where divine beings walk among mortals, and their battles leave real scars.
But even more powerful than the gods are the very human themes threaded throughout the book. Grief, especially, plays a central role. Iris and Roman both carry immense emotional burdens — the loss of family, the pressure to stay strong, the fear of losing more. Their letters become lifelines, connecting them not just to each other, but to hope.
Ross doesn’t shy away from the realities of war either. There’s a real sense of loss, uncertainty, and moral complexity in how the characters respond to conflict. For a fantasy book, Divine Rivals feels deeply grounded in the emotional truths of what it means to survive.
Stunning Prose and Memorable Characters
One of the most praised aspects of this novel is Ross’s writing style. Her prose is elegant and poetic without being flowery. She has a gift for drawing readers in with simple lines that carry deep emotional weight. Every sentence feels intentional, and every word adds something to the atmosphere or the characters’ development.
Iris is a standout protagonist — brave but not fearless, driven but relatable. She’s not the typical “chosen one” trope often seen in fantasy. Instead, she’s a young woman trying to make sense of a broken world with a pen in her hand and courage in her heart.
Roman, too, is more than just the rival-turned-love-interest. He’s layered, thoughtful, and slowly reveals himself as someone carrying just as much hurt as Iris — perhaps even more. Their dynamic is perfectly paced and authentic.
A Story for Readers Who Love Emotion with Their Magic
Divine Rivals isn’t about flashy battles or nonstop action. Instead, it focuses on quieter moments — the kind that sneak up on you, make you feel something, and stay with you. This book is ideal for readers who enjoy character-driven stories, beautifully crafted worlds, and love that grows through shared hardship.
It’s also a novel that celebrates the written word. Letters aren’t just a plot device — they’re the emotional thread that ties the entire story together. In an age dominated by instant messages and quick communication, the novel reminds us of the profound power of a well-chosen word.
Final Thoughts
Rebecca Ross has crafted something truly remarkable with Divine Rivals. It’s a book that feels timeless, not because of its setting, but because of the emotions it evokes. Whether you’re drawn in by the idea of gods at war, a gripping slow-burn romance, or simply love a well-written story with depth, this book delivers on every front.
It’s the kind of story that whispers to your heart and leaves you thinking long after you’ve finished. And if you find yourself yearning for more, the sequel, Ruthless Vows, continues the journey in a way that’s just as powerful.
