BookView Review

Amidst a tumultuous war between gods, Iris struggles to keep her family together. As she battles for a promotion at the Oath Gazette, she finds solace in writing letters to her missing brother. Little does she know, they are being intercepted by Roman Kitt, her rival journalist and secretly enamored pen pal. Their clandestine correspondence leads them on a journey that will test their love and bravery in the face of overwhelming danger and uncertain futures.

Divine Rivals seamlessly blends the brutal reality of war with a tender, unfolding romance. Set in a World War I-inspired world, where gods manipulate humans as their soldiers, the story vividly portrays the horrors of battle, especially through its stark descriptions of trench warfare.

At the center of it all is Iris, a character defined by her resilience and compassion. Her struggles with abandonment and self-doubt make her incredibly relatable, but it’s her kindness and unwavering determination to help others that truly stand out. She’s a character you can’t help but root for.

Enter Roman, Iris’s charming, witty counterpart. Despite his privileged background, Roman is determined to make his own way in life—and his devotion to Iris is undeniable. Whether he’s abandoning his family duties to be with her or enduring physical pain just to reach her, Roman’s love for Iris is deep and unwavering. His actions, from protecting her in the midst of danger to standing by her side no matter what, set a high standard for devotion.

In Divine Rivals, the rawness of war is perfectly balanced with the warmth of love, making it a story that stays with you. Iris and Roman’s journey is one of love, sacrifice, and resilience—a powerful narrative that leaves a lasting impact.

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