10 Things I Love About Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross
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If you grew up in my decade, chances are 10 Things I Hate About You left a lasting impression. (Let’s be honest, who didn’t fall for Heath Ledger’s charm or root for Julia Stiles’ unapologetic snark?) That movie shaped a generation with its wit, heart, and perfect blend of love and sarcasm.
Now, I figured—why not bring that same energy to my reviews? Instead of just telling you why a book is great (or not), I’m breaking it down into ten bite-sized, straight-to-the-point reasons. Whether it’s a thriller that kept me up all night, a romance that made me swoon, or a book that made me question my life choices, you’ll get the real deal—fast, fun, and spoiler-free.
So, welcome to 10 Things I Love About the Book, where I give you the highs, the lows, and the must-know moments of my latest reads. Because let’s face it—some books deserve a spotlight, and others? Well, let’s just say I’ll save you the trouble.
Next on my list? Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross—a gorgeously written fantasy romance that blends magical letters, rival journalists, and a war between gods.
Divine Rivals Summary
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10 Reasons to Read Divine Rivals
- A Love Letter in Every Sense – The letter-writing magic is not just a plot device—it’s the story’s emotional core. Seeing young rival journalists unknowingly pour their hearts out to each other? Devastatingly romantic.
- Enemies-to-Lovers with a Journalistic Twist – The main characters constantly try to outwrite each other at the Oath Gazette, but their rivalry is laced with tension and hidden admiration—the perfect blend of ambition and attraction.
- Rebecca Ross’s Poetic Prose – Her writing makes every sentence feel like a spell—beautiful, vivid, and full of heart.
- The War Between Gods Feels Real – The story’s conflict isn’t just metaphorical—deities are actually waging war, and the fate of humans hangs in the balance. This divine clash adds depth and urgency to every choice the characters make.
- Roman Kitt: The Ultimate Brooding Rival – A handsome rival with sharp wit, hidden scars, and a reluctant heart? Yes, please. Watching him open up through the letters makes his transformation even more rewarding.
- Iris Winnow’s Fierce Determination – Eighteen-year-old Iris Winnow is fighting not just for a columnist promotion but for survival, purpose, and the chance to find her missing brother. She’s resilient, passionate, and impossible not to root for.
- A War-Torn, Atmospheric Setting – Whether it’s the bustling newsroom of the Oath Gazette or the haunting front lines of battle, the world feels immersive and alive. The looming war adds stakes that make every scene hit harder.
- That Wardrobe Door… – A simple, enchanted doorway becomes the passage between love and longing. Every time a letter disappears, it feels like a tiny act of fate at work.
- Centuries of Sleep and Divine Influence – The warring gods have been dormant for centuries of sleep, but their awakening spells disaster. The way their influence seeps into the world—subtle yet catastrophic—is chilling.
- That Cliffhanger Ending?! – You will need the next book (Ruthless Vows) immediately. The final pages hit like a gut punch, and you’ll be desperate to see how Iris and Roman’s journey unfolds.
Divine Rivals Printable Discussion Guide
Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross
Divine Rivals blends romance, war, and divine influence into a compelling, atmospheric story. With young rival journalists at its heart, the book explores ambition, fate, and the power of words. As eighteen-year-old Iris Winnow and Roman Kitt navigate the front lines of battle—both in war and love—there’s plenty to unpack. Here are some thought-provoking questions to guide your discussion.
Book Discussion Guide
- What did you think about the magical letter-writing system? Would you want one?
- How does the war between the gods shape the main characters’ decisions?
- Did you enjoy the rivals-to-lovers dynamic between Iris and Roman?
- What moment in the book hit you the hardest emotionally?
- How do you think journalism plays a unique role in the story?
- Iris and Roman’s relationship develops in two ways—through letters and in person. Which felt more meaningful to you?
- Did you predict the ending? How did it impact your feelings about the book?
- Which character did you relate to the most?
- How does grief influence Iris’s choices throughout the novel?
- What do you think about Roman’s backstory and how it shaped him?
- How do the gods in Divine Rivals compare to other fantasy deities you’ve read about?
- The setting feels both historical and fantastical. Did that work for you?
- What do you think was the most powerful theme in the book?
- Were there any side characters you wished had more page time?
- Do you think Iris and Roman’s story would work in a different setting?
- What would you write if you could send love letters into the void?
- How did the prose enhance (or detract from) your reading experience?
- If you could ask Rebecca Ross one question about this book, what would it be?
- How do you think Ruthless Vows, the next book, will continue the story?
- Would you recommend this book to others? Why or why not?
Closing Thoughts: Is Divine Rivals Worth Your Time?
If you love novels with a magical twist, heart-wrenching romance, and high-stakes storytelling, Divine Rivals is for you. Rebecca Ross delivers a beautifully written, emotionally charged novel that’s as much about love as it is about fate and war. Perfect for fans of romance books that make you feel everything.
Looking for more? Try these equally enchanting reads that mix romance, war, and a touch of magic:
