Trigger warning for loss of a loved one and violence (war).

Divine Rivals is one of those books that keeps you on your toes until the end. The pacing is relatively quick, after the first quarter, and the language delightfully ornate, with characters that jump out and make you want to follow them until the end. It is a historical fantasy set in an era reminiscent of the early 1900s, with Gods waging war amongst mortals, and two polar opposites falling in love despite their differences (and thanks to a magical connection/long-term correspondence). After life-changing events on both sides, our two journalists set out for the front lines of the divine struggle and come face-to-face with the atrocities of war. 

As main characters go, I really connected with Iris. Like her name, she is soft, but also stubborn and headstrong. Iris is the kind of girl that moves forward despite her fears, and is loyal to the bone to those she loves. Having lost a loved one myself, I felt her grief and I admired how well the author portrayed her mourning. Grief is a vicious thing. I also enjoyed the animosity-turned-attraction between her and  Roman(“a.k.a  “nemesis”), and felt the dual POV and letters allowed us delicious peeks into both of their realities. 

The only aspects of the book I really struggled with were the world building and mythology. The would building was a bit hazy and overshadowed by characters and plot. I found myself with only a rough idea of the time frame for most of the book. I just knew it had to be between the late 1800s or early 1900s. And, aside from being the inciting force behind the war, if you took the gods out and used a mortal reason for it, the impact would have still been the same. The gods added a fantastical flare for sure, but didn’t quite land an impact (for me) until the end. That said, I have a feeling they will have a stronger presence in the second book. 

Overall, I really enjoyed this book and look forward to volume two. It will get you in the feels, so prepare tissues (and snacks for comfort) in advance.