'Divine Rivals' Fans to Enjoy New Spin-Off Book: Rebecca Ross Shares Details
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Loading... - Ahmad Salah
- 23 Jan 2025
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Rebecca Ross, the bestselling author of the young adult fantasy novel Divine Rivals, has exciting news for her fans: a new spin-off titled Wild Reverence is set to be published on September 2. This announcement comes after numerous inquiries during her book tour about the possibility of exploring the characters of the gods in greater depth.
Wild Reverence is described as a blend of Circe and Kushiel’s Dart, set in the same universe as Divine Rivals and its sequel, Ruthless Vows. However, this new installment will cater to an adult audience, offering a fresh perspective while still retaining the enchanting elements that fans love.
The story follows Matilda, the divine messenger of the gods, who is tasked with delivering a letter to a mortal lord named Vincent, only to discover he is her long-lost childhood friend. As she grapples with her mission from Death, Matilda finds herself torn between her duty and her desire to help Vincent survive, leading to a star-crossed romance that challenges her understanding of love and magic.
Set 600 years before the events of Divine Rivals, Wild Reverence explores the intricate politics between the skyward and underling gods, as well as their interactions with humanity. Ross emphasizes that while the book features familiar characters for those who have read her previous works, it is designed to be accessible to new readers as well.
Ross drew inspiration for Wild Reverence from the enchanted typewriters in Divine Rivals, which serve as a connection between the protagonists. She wanted to trace the origins of that enchantment back to the goddess who inspired it, leading her to create Matilda's character.
Readers can expect a rich tapestry of romance tropes, including childhood friends-to-lovers, slow-burn romance, and even a fake marriage. Matilda, the child of a skyward god and an underling goddess, navigates her identity while Vincent, raised in a mortal family, grapples with his feelings for her as they reconnect after years apart.
The hardcover edition of Wild Reverence will feature a stunning jacket with gold foil and an illustration of Matilda and Vincent, paying homage to the covers of Divine Rivals and Ruthless Vows. Ross is particularly excited for fans to see the beautifully illustrated endpapers.
In crafting this new story, Ross found inspiration in her surroundings, often spending time with her six chickens, whom she affectionately refers to as her "therapy chickens." She also enjoys long walks while listening to a carefully curated playlist filled with wistful and yearning songs, which helped shape the emotional landscape of Wild Reverence.
As anticipation builds for the release of Wild Reverence, fans of Divine Rivals can look forward to a captivating new chapter in a beloved universe, filled with romance, magic, and the complexities of love across realms. The excitement surrounding Wild Reverence is palpable, as readers eagerly await the chance to immerse themselves in Matilda and Vincent's journey. Ross's ability to weave intricate relationships and emotional depth into her narratives has garnered her a dedicated following, and this spin-off promises to deliver more of the same.
In addition to the romantic elements, the book will delve into themes of identity, duty, and the consequences of choices made in the name of love. Matilda's struggle with her dual heritage and Vincent's reluctance to accept help create a dynamic tension that is sure to resonate with readers.
As the release date approaches, fans are encouraged to engage with Ross on social media, where she often shares insights into her writing process and the inspirations behind her characters. The anticipation for Wild Reverence not only highlights the popularity of Divine Rivals but also showcases Ross's talent for creating compelling stories that captivate the imagination.
With its rich world-building and relatable characters, Wild Reverence is set to become another beloved addition to the fantasy genre, appealing to both longtime fans and newcomers alike. The blend of magic, romance, and adventure ensures that readers will be enchanted by Matilda and Vincent's tale, making it a must-read for the upcoming fall season.
