Justified: The Legacy Chapters Book 2

by V. Romas Burton

Two years after fleeing the enslavement of Kadeshian general, General Yada, Rae Salvar does all she can to survive the besieged city of Yekel.

While her work at the outer wall and business selling scarves keep her from poverty, her secret identity as the Crimson Cord, a street fighter in Yekel's Dark Market, is what Rae enjoys the most. But when General Yada threatens Rae and demands she finds the recently escaped Seer, Devora Medee, Rae is desperate to do anything to locate the Seer and give her over to the general and Kadesh.

However, a mysterious fighter enters the Dark Market and defeats Rae. With her undefeated title ruined and her life crumbling around her, Rae begins to wonder if the path she's on will lead to her freedom from Kadesh or her destruction.

Genres: Fantasy, Christian Fantasy

358 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 6, 2024

About the author

V. Romas Burton grew up bouncing up and down the East Coast where she wrote her first story about magical ponies at age seven. Years later, after studying government and earning an M.A. in Theological Studies, V. Romas Burton realized something even bigger was calling out to her--stories that contained great adventures and encouraging messages. When she's not writing, she's taking care of her three rambunctious sons. You can find future updates and news on her website: www.vromasburton.com

Reviews

[Kayla E. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Justified is the second installment of The Legacy Chapters series, following book one, Fortified. I read Fortified earlier in the year, and I did enjoy it. But, I enjoyed Justified even more! The books are little-to-no-magic fantasy, but there are curses and gifts in the fictional world. This New Adult series, specifically Justified, is a mix of action, clean romance, coming-of-age, and biblical themes. Plus, there are sprinkles of fairytales with an evil witch and a shapeshifting curse.

Justified primarily follows Rae, a young woman who live is a town governed by an enemy nation. When first invaded, Rae disguised as many young women and girls as she could as boys and sent them away. However, her heroic actions did not give her enough time to get herself to safety. She was forced into life as a se* slave at the corrupted temple. In order to purchase her freedom, Rae disguised herself and entered in illegal street fighting matches to earn funds. Since buying her own freedom, she continues to fight to purchase freedom for other women.

Book one's storyline connects to book two as Nadia, who grew up with Rae, returns. Through Nadia, Rae learns the fugitive Seer (Devora) is near, and she plans to turn the Seer into the corrupt General who makes her life, and anyone's life he crosses path with, miserable. Rae, understandably bitter and angry with the trauma she has been forced to endure, has no qualms with finding the Seer and reporting her to the General, even if the Seer is friends with Nadia. But when Rae crosses path with a giant-like man who is the first person to ever beat her in a fight, she is placed on a path that shows her the world is less black-and-white than she first believed.

Readers should know that the forced se* is a big component of the plot, and it, along with the traumatic experiences it created and continues to create, is a huge factor in Rae's identity and worldview. I appreciate how the author refrains from graphic descriptions, and I think the topic of trafficking is approached tactfully and in a manner to stir discussion about this very real-world issue. Further, I appreciate how the series is for a new adult rather than young adult audience. Though se* assault is very real, and the author doesn't get graphic in descriptions of acts of assault, I think it may be too much for the younger end of the YA spectrum (14/15).

My favorite part of the book, hands down, is the romance. The romance is sweet and it illustrates that everyone is worthy of authentic love, no matter their past. It is a wonderful reflection, and reminder, of Christ's love for each and every person---no matter their choices or the choices forced upon them. I also love the lesson that growth is always possible; we are never broken though we all need to be remade from time to time. In addition, it reminds readers that sincere love does not rely on physical acts.

Overall, I recommend this low-magic fantasy to both new adult and adult readers who are looking for stories with compelling and sympathetic characters, a sweet romance, and real-life takeaways. I won't give details because of spoilers but this book contains my new favorite OTP!


*I received an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book. I am leaving a review of my own volition, and all thoughts and opinions are my own.*

[Tabitha Caplinger · Rating 5 out of 5]

After Fortified’s ending, I’ve been dying for this sequel. It did not disappoint! Burton has done a wonderful job weaving together multiple threads to create a story full of intrigue and action. I’m left on the edge of my seat again.

[Brittany Eden · Rating 5 out of 5]

Picking up after the shocking events at the end of Fortified, Justified is a soulful, classic fantasy that delivers the unashamed biblical themes that I've come to expect from a V. Romas Burton book. While the overarching plot continues with beloved characters, this story also introduces new characters in a meaningful romance that will find a place in your heart. Once again I was left thrilled by the twist at the end and cannot wait to get my hands on the next book!

[Briana Briggs · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so good! Dark in all the right places, but with enough light and hope to balance it out! And the ending/set up for the next book was intense. I love it, and yes, I know, this is a brand new book, but I already can't wait for the next one.

[V. Romas Burton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always love re-reading this book because the emotions are so raw and real. I adore Rae and Ben and the trials they overcome together. I hope you enjoy the second installment of The Legacy Chapters!

[Marie Lynch · Rating 5 out of 5]

reread fortified before jumping into this book and y’all i am shooketh.

Just like Fortified… It was amazing… I was so invested in fact that I messaged Ms.Burton just to tell her how shooketh I was 😂

I was a One shot girl and a Captain Blake girl in book 1… and well that didn’t change still am. But like there was a plot twist I did not see coming and you will just have to read the book to understand.

And yea I am babbling, but that is just what I do when I am in awe of talent and have just finished a book that broke me in so many ways that only a third book could bring my broken pieces together.

So until then I remain amazed and shook.

I Definitely recommend both Fortified and Justified if you like fantasy/fighting/ plot twists / literally something in it for everyone

I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review

[Tracie Renfrow · Rating 5 out of 5]

An incredible of continuation of V. Romas Burton's Legacy Chapters Series. I enjoyed the further development of the characters I loved in Fortified and the introduction of new characters like Rae. Burtons intricate plot kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time. Though this story features darker themes than its predecessor, it’s not graphic. Burton did not disappoint. I absolutely loved this rollercoaster of a book and can’t wait for what’s to come. 10/10 I would recommend for any dystopian lovers. ♥️ 👑

[Riley Perrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Justified was a beautiful story about grace and redemption. I loved how Burton dove into hard topics of human trafficking and finding forgiveness. Rae is such a strong character, and she's definitely one of my favorites in the Legacy Chapters.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

The love story in this book was so sweet, and I loved watching the main characters' growth as their relationship unfolded.

[Aryauna Valdez · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book had some good parts but was Nothing like the first book.

And sadly, I have to say I will be leaving this series and author. The first book had Biblical things but the second one got mystical and I’m worried about the new one.

[Stephanie Mccall · Rating 4 out of 5]

V. Romas Burton is back, and once again, she crafts an amazing story that unites Biblical fiction and fantasy, two genres that I don't think I've ever seen put together well. This time, she gives us the story of Rahab set in a kingdom at war--but a kingdom full of magic, secret identities, and almost mythical twists and turns. Yet she does this while staying true to the core of Rahab's Scriptural story and Who God is. He goes by Tunri here, but is still the same Alpha and Omega we know in our world.

Here, Rahab is Rae, a multifaceted, gifted woman whose soul is filled with anger, fear, and bitterness. Yet though V. Romas never sugarcoats these emotions, she doesn't let Rae become unsympathetic, either. Instead, she lets us see how much of her heroine's pain comes from a desire for, and lack of, justice. She lets us experience in real time how Rae cares for the people around her, not with expected warmth and compassion perhaps, but practical "tough love" that ensures those people are fed, safe, warm, and able to thrive in a world that wants to crush them.

Speaking of that world, the setting of Yekel sparkles just as much if not more than that of the Fortress. Once again, V. Romas balances the light and dark elements perfectly. Living in captivity, especially in the Temple, is a horrible circumstance, and Rae, Master Monham, Nadia, and the other Yekelians feel it every day. Simultaneously, scenes of Sancti preparation, gritty, stubborn faith in Tunri, and even the small details like the vibrancy of Rae's scarves, give Yekel just enough hope and brightness for readers to stick around and root for the characters to succeed.

Those characters, both new and old, are as three-dimensional as before. I'm not sure I agree with the balance of points of view here, or how some of the character development progressed, which I'll get to in a minute. That said, each secondary character got the exact amount of page time for me to know them as a person and care about why they were in the story. Former major characters like Devorah still shine; it never feels like they've "taken a backseat." Even characters who weren't on page as such, like Rae's parents, quickly won my heart.

As with Fortified, V. Romas' plot is deftly written, a great balance of adventure, intrigue, and the tender introspection that comes with the best emotional and spiritual journeys. Rae's identity as the Crimson Cord is expanded beyond, "being a fighter to free captive women," although that's a noble motive that kept my pages turning at a great clip. In Justified, though, her two identities are allowed to push, pull, and war within her, creating some intense moral dilemmas and raw spiritual moments. The same could be said for Rae's "sisterhood" with Nadia. And as for her budding relationship with One Shot--that's one of the most well-written secondary romances I've seen in a while. V. Romas manages to give these two both chemistry and growing, mutual respect without pulling Rae into a cliched sweet romance that wouldn't fit her character.

I did remove a star based on the POV switches. I didn't mind them as such, but one or two in particular (can't say anything without spoilers), felt incongruous and as if the viewpoint was switching among too many people. There's also a twist with a secondary/major character (secondary here, major in the series arc) that, while it works for *that person,* comes a bit out of left field. As in, it's mentioned several times that this character has a secret, but for me, there wasn't enough setup for a secret of that ilk.

Those notes aside, Justified is a strong, intriguing book that I wouldn't have minded giving all five stars if not for those mild to moderate pitfalls. As it is, Justified brings Rahab to life in a brand new, innovative way and kindles both justice and faith in the reader's heart. I can't wait to read Sanctified and definitely want more like these books from V. Romas Burton.

[M.H. Elrich · Rating 5 out of 5]

Joy comes in the morning, but Rae doesn't know it yet...
This was a fantastic sequel to Fortified! Although I liked the first one, I think I enjoyed this one more. That's because of Rae, the main character. Her heartbreak and struggles with "beasts" of envy, wrath, and fear were so relatable. Rae's character is revealed piece by piece, and it is a beautiful story to read. Coming alongside her is Nadia, Devora, Matthias, and One Shot. Devora was her usual assertive self, and it was nice to see her again and get a little behind the scenes with Matthias. One Shot was the most surprising new character added to the cast. His history and true traits were revealed, and I found myself rooting for his romance with Rae throughout the story.
As for the plot itself, it wasn't necessarily action packed (though there are plenty of fights and suspense). The twisting and turning as secrets were revealed and relationships were tested was enough to keep me glued to the page. General Yada definitely made a creepy antagonist as his lustful, predatory actions towards Rae intensified the plot.
Speaking of creepy, there is a demonic element in this book, where an old hag steals stoles using a statue of a goddess. However, more powerful is the counter to evil: Tunri, the name that Burton uses for the Christian God. Tunri helps Rae break the chains around her heart, and his light shines in the midst of the darkness. The spiritual message in this book is strong, along with an allusion to one of my favorite Bible stories.
Overall, this is a fantastic story and well worth reading!
Content Warnings:
Language: None
Alcohol/Drug/Gambling Content: Drugs are used to get in touch with the demonic goddess, Pahga. They are portrayed negatively. There is a character who has a gambling problem.
Sexual Content [spoilers]: Rae worked at the Temple of Pahga as a sex slave. General Yada was her primary "client," and his predatory nature may trigger some people. Although the reader does not get any explicit view of what Rae has experienced, it is obvious as she struggles with physical touch. The most we find out about this is more an exit scene where Rae is crying in a bedroom after a man leaves, and then tries to cut herself out of depression. A special character comes alongside her to free her from it. Rae is almost raped and a person saves her just in time.
Violent Content: Rae fights as the Crimson Cord at an Underground Arena. She does this to earn money to free some of the Temple priestesses/sex slaves. However, this also means she associates with some terrible men, and often gives in to her "Beast of Rage" to beat them up. The fights are described Sherlock Holmes style as she thinks about how to disable her opponents. That being said, she does not kill them, and there isn't blood/guts shown. One Shot's background is also reviewed and [spoilers] he killed his sister's rapists. War is described but not gone into detail. Rae headbutts General Yada, resulting in bruising on his face. He is [spoilers] crushed by the statue of Pahga.

[Kelly Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Justified is book two in the Legacy chapters, and it’s V’s best book yet! Partially inspired by the Biblical story of Rahab, Justified deals with some hard themes, but ultimately is a story of hope and redemption.

If you’ve already read book one, you’ll still get to see Devora and Matthias, but this book focuses more on Rae, a girl with a dark past who’s leading a double life – by day, she sells colorful scarves and bakes, but by night, she’s a street fighter in the illegal Dark Market.

The plot is well-paced and character-driven. The characters are the strongest aspect of the book. Rae has a very strong and touching character arc, and I loved Master Monham. There’s not as much magic in this book, but there are hints, plus some interesting hints toward an evil coming in book three. 👀

As for the writing, I think this is the strongest of V’s books yet. Previous books I felt had a not uncommon tendency toward strange word choices, but that is not true for this book.

If you’re a fan of Christian fantasy, this is a series to check out!



*I received an ARC for an honest review.*

[Jennifer Dyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this one. Perhaps it as my favorite of the series although the it was perhaps the one with the heroine who had the hardest back story. Rae has a lot of pain in her past and a lot of reasons not to trust anyone, especially any man. I loved the evolution of her character and also seeing the double life she leads.

Maybe this is a spoiler? Maybe? So don’t read on if you don’t want any spoilers.

Rae had a Batman vigilante secret identity and it was fun to see that in a character like hers.

There were also some surprises with characters in this book (and the series). People I thought were bad turned out to be good. Captain Blake was one (if you’re on book 2, Blake being a good guy shouldn’t be a spoiler. But just in case I put this here). And I think this is where we get a big surprise with Blake that I won’t spoil here. But it was a fun surprise.

And that Queen. Oof. She gets worse and worse. I am definitely hoping she gets a dose of justice in book 4.

Overall, this series offers a lot of depth, great characters, adventure, twists and turns, and some great strong females who feel feminine and multi-faceted.

[Laurie Lucking · Rating 5 out of 5]

3 things I LOVED about this book:

1. One Shot
I was quite intrigued by this surprisingly gentle giant in Fortified, so I was thrilled he got a larger role in Justified! Such a humble, skilled, loyal guy with a great sense of humor that sneaks through every once in a while :)

2. The Setting
Burton has an immersive writing style that vividly brings the setting to life. By the end, I felt like I could walk the streets of Yekel with familiarity, hear the bustle of the marketplace, and taste Rae's amazing orange blossoms - yum!

3. Devora
While she wasn't the primary focus of this book, my girl Devora was back! It was so satisfying to see her acting with confidence, courage, and wisdom after all she went through in Fortified. I can't wait to see where her journey leads next!

Justified is a powerful story with some dark moments but so much light and hope. If you enjoyed Fortified, don't miss this epic second installment!

*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.*

[Melissa Cate · Rating 5 out of 5]

OH. MY. GOODNESS. I hadn't read about it being inspired by Rahab, but I figured that out. I also didn't know that the author was inspired by RDJ's Sherlock (like when he's thinking through a fight scene), but I definitely caught that, too.

I LOVE One Shot. He is so gentle with those he loves.

Rae's desire and journey to not allow the enemy within to keep her grip was a beautiful thing to see. What I LOVED (besides everything): I love that fear, rage, and envy are called out for what they are - internalized BEASTS. They thrive in the darkest recesses of one's mind, and are defeated when light shines on them, beginning with envy, when Rae addresses it head on for the first time. I loved how Burton wrote it. I will say - Rae's story is HEARTBREAKING. Redemption is a beautiful thing, though, and hers is no exception.

What I didn't like: Devora and Kanna? Hellooooo?! I hate cliffhangers. LOL Really, this is my only complaint.😉(The good news is book 3 is already out and ready for me to read.😉)

[Dawnell Towning · Rating 5 out of 5]

Justified opens where Book 1, Fortified, left off; however instead of being in Devora’s head, we are immediately introduced to a new character, Rae, Nadia’s friend prior to her time at the Fortress.

Burton takes us on yet another whirl-wind adventure. But this one includes back allies, a black market fighting arena, and a cursed temple.

While we do get to see our favorites from Book 1 (Matthias and Devora), Burton focuses on reforming the souls of Rae and One-Shot. Both have pasts they are trying to forget and atone for; they make you, the reader, reflect and ponder your own inner monologues.

They make you smile at their conversations and beg each of them to stop being foolish and just be honest with the other.

Burton keeps you on your toes, predicting what will happen next. If that weren’t enough, she’ll leave you on a cliff-hanger. So make sure you have Book 3, Sanctified, ready to go so you don’t miss any time in finishing this trilogy.

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Justified was an amazing continuation of V. Romas Burton’s the Legacy Chapters. Not only were our favorite characters from the first book back but the book had amazing new characters too! Our main character Rae is an amazing new edition to this series! We get to see Rae go from trying to seek revenge and feeling unworthy of love to feeling redeemed, that God and others can love her, and that she can love herself!
This is a great message that hits hard and real topics encountered in life, while being wonderfully written.

[Heather Griffin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story delves into some tough issues in a unique fantasy world. Rae is gritty and cares deeply for those she loves (sometimes to the detriment of caring for herself), but she also possesses a deep brokenness that she struggles with. Her arc was satisfying, and I was pleased to see how the characters from Book 1 were woven into the story. There were some parts that moved a bit slower than I wanted, but overall, a really great read that I think older teens would enjoy!

Also, beautiful themes of redemption!

[Lydia Mae · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was happy to pick up the sequel to V. Romas Burton's Fortified. This is a fantasy novel inspired by the biblical story of Rahab. I enjoyed the world in this book and the characters. Rae, our main character, has a wonderful growth arc, and I loved her path to healing. Beloved characters from book 1 return, including Devorah, whose story isn't finished yet. I look forward to discovering what will happen with her in the next book.

[Jenna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Justified manages to be intense and sweet (sometimes literally) and honest to both the dark and light throughout. The story doesn’t shy away from its darker realities, but it strives for hope every step of the way. Burton’s characters new and familiar are vivid and relatable. Their struggles are poignant and their joy feels real. The Legacy Chapters is a thoroughly enjoyable read, and the ending of this book, just like the first, leaves you excited for more.

[S.H. Dontell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an absolutely magnificent follow up to Fortified!! I loved learning more about One Shot's backstory, as well as meeting Rae. Her story was devastating, but handled with such tact and grace, and I loved seeing her grow. I also loved the continuation of Devora's story, and I can't wait to see where it goes next!
One of my favorite parts (other than the romance and how it was written) was the incorporation of the Bible stories! Such a cool and creative way of doing it

[J.M. Hackman · Rating 4 out of 5]

Burton has written a great follow-up to Fortified. Justified follows a new main character, Rae, (also known as the fighter the Crimson Cord) as she journeys from trauma to trust. Former favorite characters show up, and from the ending, the reader knows there's more to come in this series! :-) I'm interested to see how the author will tie everything up.

[Amaya · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Whatever happened to you in the past, you're not ruined, you just need to be remade. - Justified.

I love the mutiple POVs and the powerful story of redemption! It reminds me that God will always pursue us, even when we want nothing to do with Him! There is a plot twist near the end that I think is really cheesy. Overall was a pretty good book!

[Victoria LaChapell · Rating 5 out of 5]

SO GOOD

Absolutely drawn in to these characters and the plot! So well done, beautiful, captivating, intriguing! Addressed hard subjects but in a hopeful and non-heavy manner. Sucked in from the first chapter! This book had a chokehold on me. Can’t wait for more!

[Tyler Worley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an amazing series!

[Ken · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh, wow! This story is so good. I live the action, adventure and characters. I cannot wait to see what happens next!

[Ashanti · Rating 5 out of 5]

amazing

The cliff hanger was so unfair but I loved this book!! I’m running to go read the last book! Your writing is so engaging and the stories pull you in for a wild ride!

[Alyssa Feliciano · Rating 4 out of 5]

book two divides and conquers. I like how things are "seperated" and we get insight to lots of other characters simultaneously. book two has me so ready for book 3.

the Legacy Chapters has become my new favorite series!

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Prepare for another action-filled installment in this amazing series! Book 2 easily lives up to book 1—dare I say it might be even better?

We meet new characters in this book but also get to journey with our old favorites. And did someone ask for romance? *swoon* I love watching the slow-burn romance unfold in a story, and this one doesn't disappoint!

Romas' writing style is flawless and allows the reader to become immersed in the world of The Legacy Chapters. The characters are relatable and the world-building welcomes the reader to dive into this fantasy world!

Highly recommended for those looking for clean, NA fantasy reads!