Ruthless: An Agata Sea Novella

Agata Sea #1

by Candice Pedraza Yamnitz

Perfect for fans of Throne of Glass, Wishtress' magical redemptive arc, and Encanto's Latin vibe.Seventeen-year-old assassin Cottia is desperate to leave behind the work she’s been forced into. Her lord offers freedom in exchange for one last hit. The assignment is to start a war by killing a target during the Giddelian prince’s betrothal selection ceremony. When the prince uncovers her identity, he offers her a new opportunity. Will his invitation grant her freedom from the notorious underlord?

Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Christian, Young Adult, Christian Fantasy, Audiobook, Christian Fiction

158 pages, Paperback

Published March 14, 2024

Reviews

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

The novella Ruthless is a prequel to Unbetrothed. It focuses on Cottia, the mother of Unbetrothed's heroine, and her late teen years when she was an assassin. I kid you not! She is held in a sort of thrall by an evil man who makes Cottia use her magical talents to kill people on his orders.

Ruthless is set in a fantasy world that has a Latin flavor, not a Germanic or Nordic one. Although this is a prequel, it stands alone perfectly fine and would be a great introduction to this world for new readers. I liked the fast pacing of this novella, and how much character development for Cottia it held. I could have used more development for the prince, but I know Yamnitz is working on a sequel to this, so I expect we will get to know him better in that.

[Tiffany Goldman · Rating 5 out of 5]

07/30/24 Edit— REREAD for the second time, in audiobook form. The narrator did a great job and I enjoyed listening to this story as I tackled everyday tasks!

I need more of Cottia, Ezer, and Gemma!

This romantic fantasy novella reminded me why I fell in love with YA fantasy in the first place. I was taken back to my teenage bookworm days when I would discover a new teen fantasy book from my library and devour it within days (I know I could've done just that with RUTHLESS but alas I'm in my Adulting Era LOL). Nevertheless, I'm thankful to this author for the marvelous adventure I had while reading this book and seriously can't wait for the next one! I recommend it to everyone, especially to teens who love fantasy.

There were Encanto vibes (loved that movie!) and certain aspects did remind me of Throne Of Glass, but I love that with Ruthless, I didn't have to worry about gore, inappropriate sexual content, or profanity unlike some other fantasy reads out there. Instead, I got a swoony romance and an engaging journey that follows a main character who struggles to shake off her dark past so she and her best friend can escape their oppressive master and embrace a redemptive, free, and hopeful future.

[Storm Shultz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is another great book by Candice Yamnitz! I loved getting to know Cottia and Ezer and seeing them spark. Cottia is a sassy, yet wholesome character - and yes, she's an assassin, but really, she's so wholesome. Ezer's gentle yet persistent pursuit of her was everything I needed. I want more of their love!

I really loved the faith message in this story as well. That no matter your past, you can be washed clean if you repent and follow Christ (or the Ancient One 😉). I recommend this book for anyone who enjoys light fantasy, Puerto Rican culture, redemption arcs, sassy characters/banter, and royal love stories.

[Candice Yamnitz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am incredibly bias because I'm the author. I wrote a couple chapters of this story to work out the parents' backstory for Unbetrothed. Soon into writing the scene, I knew a short story wouldn't be enough. It turned into a novella with many other novellas to follow.

It's written for the person who feels they've messed up and don't deserve happiness.

[Valerie · Rating 4 out of 5]

An intriguing prequel novella to Unbetrothed, Ruthless has it all-- action, danger, romance, spies, assassins, "one last job" trope--you name it. I really enjoyed this short story so much, I wished it was longer so I could live in the story world for additional scenes and chapters. I appreciated the faith elements in this story and thought they were well done.

Looking forward to what this author comes up with next!

Content warnings for younger readers:
Multiple mentions of killing/assassination/murder
A few mentions of seducing/being seductive

[Stephanie Daniels · Rating 5 out of 5]

Prequel novella that can stand alone

I’d already read the first book in this series— Unbetrothed—so was excited to dive back into this world which features Princess Beatriz’ mother.

All the vivid imagery and immersive world building Yamnitz provides as well as her Latin-inspired settings that readers enjoyed in the first book reappear in this novella. But readers who have not read the first book will have no trouble following this story and experiencing this world for the first time. Cottia and Ezer are likable characters who pull us into their adventures and budding romance. I love how faith in the “Ancient One” is woven in, and a beautiful picture of freedom from our bonds. This is a perfect YA fantasy with faith themes and worry-free but heart-tugging romance.

[Emma Abrahams · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was gifted an ARC of Ruthless, and I’m so glad. This novella built and built and built in excitement, sweetness, and hope. I LOVED the biblical allegory. It reminded me all over again what a good and powerful God we have. The love story surprised and delighted me too. A great read, and for some reason I’m craving churros now.

[Christa Petzold · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fans of Unbetrothed will not be disappointed! I thoroughly enjoyed my return to this world. Cottia and the prince easily drew me in, leaving me both satisfied and longing for more.

Royal romance is my not-so-guilty pleasure genre, and this sweet, clean, and action-packed fantasy novella will satisfy anyone who longs for YA royal fantasy.

I would have loved this book as a teen, and I think both it and Unbetrothed would make great gifts. My guess on age range would be 15/16+.

[Jassie Grace 🌸 · Rating 3 out of 5]

Wasn’t good wasn’t bad it was meh.

I think because it’s only a novella it wasn’t as good as I hoped.

[Grace (bookish_things_and_dragons) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fascinating parallel to Christianity I wasn't expecting!

[Rose | Adventurous Bookworm · Rating 3 out of 5]

I think I should have read Unbetrothed before reading this. There was nothing wrong with this book in any way, I just think that I would have enjoyed it more had I read it later. In all honesty, it reminded me of Bound by Ravens by Jesikah Sundin.

3 Stars

Content: this is a Christian allegory fantasy novel with no negative content

[Lauren · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a simply beautiful and heartwarming allegory of the power of faith in the One who sets us free. I was gifted an ARC of Ruthless before its release and you know... sometimes a book comes into your life at JUST the right time.

This story follows Cottia, a gifted assassin, on a final assignment that she hopes will purchase her freedom... however, her mission is derailed by a prince who sees her for who she was created to be. He encourages her to seek the Ancient One who can bring her the freedom she truly desires and transform her life for good.

"...the ancient tomes say that you can be forgiven. All who come to the Ancient One will be heard if you seek him with your whole heart."

"There is no incantation that can free you, but only the will of the Ancient One to break the bonds of our past."

"I didn't want to be an assassin anymore. I wanted to wipe the blood from my hands and use my gift to heal."

The biblical truths of forgiveness and hope sprinkled throughout this book brought me to tears time and again. I didn't want this story to end! As a prequel to Candice Pedraza Yamnitz' novel, Unbetrothed, I'm so excited to continue reading about Cottia and her daughter's quest for her magical gifting!

[Bri · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love an assassin with a soft spot, so I loved Cottia! Her redemption arc was beautiful, and it was made even better by how great she and Ezer were together! Ezer is actually smart and can see through her right away, but still cares about her, which is really refreshing. I also thought the magic system was really cool, and I'm curious about the sister Cottia mentioned a couple times. I'm definitely looking forward to the next book!

Lisa Lynn Sandlin did a fantastic job narrating the audio book! She really brought the characters to life and drove home the emotions in each scene! Highly recommend!

[Ashlea · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished Ruthless! It was so great to step back into Unbetrothed’s world and get to see how Beatriz’s parents fell in love. A throughly enjoyable read!

If you like clean romantacy with groovy magical powers, check it out. I loved the different giftings and how this novella sets the stage for Unbetrothed. (And the magical fight scenes.💙)

So, if you’re needing a fix to hold you over between novels, definitely grab Ruthless.

[Lydia Mae · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is delightfully delicious! I loved the romance, the charming banter, the assassin wishing to escape her life, and the prince who is willing to help her, instead of turning her in. It was such a fun and fast-paced read! Perfect for anyone who loves any type of romantic fantasy, especially for those interested in royalty and redeemed assassins!

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ruthless is a prequel novella to Unbetrothed. Having already enjoyed Unbetrothed, I was excited to learn that the author was publishing a novella about Princess Beatriz’s mother—Cottia’s backstory. And wow, is it ever interesting! But it ended too soon! I want more!!

I love the world-building the author has done. Cottie, the main character, is dynamic, having significant character growth and change. Other characters are also well-rounded and believable. The faith element is woven into the story gently, yet believably.

I also love how the author weaves her Hispanic roots into her stories. Names, foods, dances, etc. are all clearly influenced by the author’s family heritage and I find it makes her stories even more beautiful.

My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 (4.5/5 stars)

I recommend both Ruthless and Unbetrothed to teen and adult readers who enjoy YA Christian fantasy.

I look forward to more stories like Ruthless and Unbetrothed from Candice Pedraza Yamnitz!

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a fun new offering from Candice Pedraza Yamnitz. This story was fast, fun, and had an engaging faith arc that added to the romance and built deeper levels into the characters.

[Marie · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a sweet, fun read. I loved Cottia's spunk and sass; she was a great main character! I also really enjoyed that the book had a Latin twist to it.

Cottia is an assassin who is controlled by her master. She looks to escape her current situation and live her life as she's wants to; not having to use her powers for killing anymore. When she is given the option to do one last job, and in return gain that freedom she longs for, she jumps at the chance. As she learns more about her intended targets and gets to know them, she must decide what her freedom is really worth.

I received an ARC copy from the author in return for an honest review.

[Liz Chapman · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Lord of the Rings" meets "Pride and Prejudice" in this gripping young adult fantasy. Candice Pedraza Yamnitz's world building is as exquisite and intricate as her characters are authentic. As a girl who grew up reading fairy tales, Prince Ezer is the exact sort of young man I wish I'd met on the page during my teen years. I thoroughly recommend this book for the young - and the young at heart - who are ready for an enchanting adventure.

[Simon · Rating 2 out of 5]

"Ruthless: An Agata Sea Novella" plunges readers into a vibrant world reminiscent of "Throne of Glass" with a unique Latin-inspired flair, setting the stage for a tale of redemption and intrigue. The story centers on Cottia, a seventeen-year-old assassin yearning to escape her forced servitude. Her chance at freedom comes with a daunting task: assassinate a target during the Giddelian prince’s betrothal ceremony, an act designed to ignite war. This mission immediately introduces us to the moral tightrope Cottia walks, setting the tone for a narrative rich in conflict and high stakes. The plot thickens when the prince discovers Cottia's identity, leading to an unexpected alliance that promises a new path, far from the clutches of the notorious underlord.

Cottia is portrayed as a conflicted character, her ruthlessness as an assassin juxtaposed with her deep desire for freedom and a normal life. This internal conflict is her defining trait, making her relatable despite her profession. Her skills in combat and infiltration are her assets, but her impulsive nature and difficulty trusting others are significant flaws. Prince Gide, on the other hand, is presented as a charismatic leader with a strong sense of justice. His willingness to see beyond Cottia's actions and offer her a chance at redemption highlights his compassionate nature. However, his idealism can also be a flaw, potentially blinding him to the true dangers around him. The underlord is a shadowy figure, pulling strings from behind the scenes. His ruthlessness and manipulative nature make him a formidable antagonist, driving much of the plot's tension. Cottia's relationship with Prince Gide evolves from suspicion to tentative trust, forming a crucial alliance that challenges both of them. Their interactions are a blend of strategy and burgeoning affection, adding a layer of romantic tension to the political intrigue.

One of the prominent themes in "Ruthless" is redemption. Cottia's journey from a coerced assassin to someone seeking a better life underscores the possibility of redemption, no matter one's past. The novel suggests that genuine change is possible when individuals are given a chance to prove themselves, challenging societal expectations and prejudices. The narrative also explores the theme of free will versus destiny. Cottia's struggle to escape the underlord's control and forge her own path highlights the importance of making one's own choices, even when external forces seem insurmountable. This theme resonates deeply as Cottia battles against her predetermined role, striving to define her own future. Loyalty is another key theme, examined through the relationships between Cottia, Prince Gide, and the underlord. Cottia's shifting allegiances force her to confront what loyalty truly means, questioning whether it should be blindly given or earned through trust and mutual respect. This theme adds complexity to the characters' motivations, driving the plot forward as they navigate treacherous alliances.

"Ruthless: An Agata Sea Novella" is a compelling blend of action, romance, and political intrigue, set against a richly detailed backdrop. Candice Pedraza Yamnitz crafts a narrative that keeps readers engaged from start to finish, with well-developed characters and thought-provoking themes. For readers who enjoyed this novella, similar reads include Sarah J. Maas's "Throne of Glass" series for its strong female lead and intricate world-building, and Kristin Cashore's "Graceling" for its exploration of unique abilities and moral complexities.

[Hailey · Rating 5 out of 5]

So I may have had this book done in one day 🤭 (I did listen to it as an audiobook but that is besides the point okay :) Anyways once I started I didn't want it to stop, it was so good! It's on the shorter side since it's a novella but so much was packed into it and it was an amazing story! Honestly I wish it was longer just so it hadn't ended lol.

The story starts off with some action and then it's pretty much non-stop from there. But there is also a good amount of back story for the characters, character building, and world building. There is such a good plot line that kept me interested and intrigued the whole time. Another great addition is the Christian influence, the author weaved it in beautifully and it was present from the beginning. It mostly focused on the FMC's unbelief in God and believing she is forever trapped in the dark world she was forced into. And then her slowly start to believe quite the opposite!

The FMC, Cottia, is an assasin with healing powers. But she longs to be free and give life instead of taking it but feels helpless and trapped. Bargains are stricked, plans are made, and chaos ensues. She may be a killer but deep down she has a big heart and cares strongly for the few she is close with. She is strong, witty, stubborn, and feisty. I really loved her character, she has the past trauma that we get to see her overcome and heal from. She also made me laugh at her comebacks, but also sad for the pain she has had to endure. And root for her in fights and when she grew to see the right path and the way out of the darkness and into the light.

The MMC, Prince Ezer, is such a golden retriever and how I adore him! He singled Cottia out immediately and knew who she was and what her goals were from the beginning but did that stop him from getting to know her? Nope. He never once was afraid of her or sent her away but instead kept a watchful eye on her, keeping her close and safe. He talked to her about the Ancient One (God) and showed her that she can have true freedom and break away from her past. He is persistent, brave, just as stubborn as her, kind hearted and everything Cottia needs in her life.

They are just so perfect, sweet, cute and sure to bring a smile to your face. The romance is fast-paced, but you get all the forbidden love tension, the back and forth snark, and I could feel their connection, they just fit so well.

And just to touch on world building, it is set in the same world as her other novels so those probably expand on the world more, but I could still imagine everything and get all the latin vibes in this story. There is also magical gifts and those are described very clearly and explained very well, so its really easy to understand, and I always love learning about new magic systems in books so it was great!

So if you want a cute, quick, fun read that still will get you in the feels, and possibly make your heart pound, have you rooting for the characters then you should pick this book up, I promise you won't be disappointed!

Content: No-spice/kisses only, no swearing, some violence/wounds (only briefly described, not gory)

[Kirsten Anderson · Rating 3 out of 5]

ruthless
3 ✨

overview: this was a short, tender story that had descriptions of food that made me hungry lol.

characters: I enjoyed Cottia’s character; she’s strong and determined and has a good heart.
Ezer comes off a bit vanilla, and maybe having a savior complex, but I still really liked his gentle protectiveness. He didn’t clip Cottia’s wings, even if it was dangerous; he worried about her, but simply followed wherever she went.

romance: Cottia and Ezer were so pure and sweet!! Ezer is such a respectful, honorable man and so tender and understanding! BUT WE DIDNT GET A KISS 😭😭😭

A tear slipped along my cheek, and I curled into Ezer. He kissed my forehead and whispered against my skin, “You’re such a fighter. You’re doing great.” I looked up into his lamplit eyes. In that instant, I knew I was a goner. With his strong arms keeping me aloft and the warmth of his kiss lingering on my forehead, he had my heart.

You’re going to live, and when you do, I’m going to marry you.” He kissed my forehead with a gentle press of his warm lips.

writing: pretty and thoughtful, with Spanish influences. Some themes of forgiveness, freedom, and faith.

atmosphere: scarlet ball gowns, the look of betrayal, the deep richness of wine, the allure of dark eyes.

The moon rose a fraction, cascading its pale light onto broad leaves, stone, and the forest floor.

Tiptoeing, I slipped out and sneaked up a narrow stairwell to the second floor. Torches lit the passage above, revealing gilded portraits of refined people on chiseled stone walls. Red carpet lined the center of the corridor, muffling my steps as I explored. I opened one door to the right and got a glimpse of a wooden horse perfect for a small child to sit upon.

I sped through the darkened corridor that opened up to a courtyard and down several flights of stairs. A remnant of those working the kitchen carried trays of empanadas, cuero de pernil, and spiced tamarindo. My mouth watered at the savory dishes, but I plucked the tamarindo into my mouth. An explosion of sweet and spicy coated my tongue and caused a reflexive hiss to push between my teeth.

I spun around toward a torch-lit road leading to the town square. Musicians plucked their lutes, pressed their bows to their viols, and smacked palms on the drums. The rhythmic music pulsed through the air, setting in motion old women’s hips and young dance partners. In a flurry of masks and colorful dresses, the mass of humanity gathered under banners running from one pole to another.

season: summer.

———

content: language (n/a). sexual (innocent touches and forehead/wrist kisses). other (planned murder, some action scenes, mentions of magic, no gory details).

———

💌PS (I LOVE YOU)
— Kirsten <3

[M.H. Elrich · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Latin-inspired heartfelt fantasy...
When I read Unbetrothed, I didn't really notice Beatriz's parents. Yet, curiosity about their background the intriguing premise (assassins, dancing, adventure), drew me in. And I'm so glad I decided to read it!
Cottia is a sympathetic main character. She is forced to assassinate others because of magical bindings, using her natural gift of healing in a twisted way. This part of the world building fascinated me because I think that's exactly what sin does-it corrupts the very goodness of the gifts that God has bestowed on you. Whether that was intentional on Candice's part or not, it made her someone that I could root for, and since the novella is told exclusively from her point of view, I was glad for it.
The Prince is also an interesting character. He falls in love with Cottia despite her background, and his noble actions to help her see the truth of the Ancient One was nice to read.
Speaking of the Ancient One, I really enjoyed how Candice incorporated Christian elements into the book in a realistic manner. Cottia is very doubtful about the Ancient One's power, and her path to faith is so natural you barely notice it.
The plot was fast-paced, and I wished there was more of Cottia and her prince. Now, I want to read Unbetrothed again, looking for the personalities of the characters I've grown to love.
The last praise I have for this book is the Latin inspired world. I could practically taste the empanadas and hear the Latin music during the dancing. I like how she has titles for different members of nobility (Whyzers) and how she calls the "magic" portion giftings. It's all very unique and explained just enough for me to understand.
If you're looking for a unique Christian Fantasy book with romance, adventure, and magic, then you've come to the right book.

[DJWman · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Ruthless" by Candice Pedraza Yamnitz is an enjoyable novella that immerses readers into a world of action, danger, and intrigue. Set in a Latin-flavored world filled with assassins, spies, and forbidden romance, the story follows seventeen-year-old assassin Cottia as she grapples with her desire to leave behind her life of violence.

As my first introduction to Candice Pedraza Yamnitz's work, "Ruthless" impressed me, particularly through it’s weaving together elements of the "one last job" trope with biblical allegory, creating a compelling narrative. The faith elements are well integrated into the story, reminding readers of the power of redemption and the presence of a good and powerful God.

Yamnitz's writing is fast-paced, drawing readers into the central characters' journey while providing glimpses into the richly imagined world. While the story primarily focuses on character development rather than extensive world-building, readers still get a sense of the vibrant and unique setting.

The romance in the novella is sweet and clean, adding depth to the characters' relationships without overshadowing the main plot. The author's creation of a fresh and intriguing magic system adds an additional layer of complexity to the story although further exploration of these giftings and how they are controlled, may be beneficial leaving readers eager to explore more of the world in the main book series, "Unbetrothed."

Although there are some aspects of the novella slightly harder to follow or some that could have been further developed, overall, "Ruthless" is an enjoyable read that leaves readers intrigued and eager for more. Yamnitz's finely crafted characters, lush setting, and gentle exploration of faith make this novella a solid addition to the Christian fantasy genre.

[Carrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this YA fantasy/Christian allegory, Cottia has lost her parents and has been forced to become an assassin by the corrupt Whyzer Patro, using her gifting power of healing to kill instead. The only way she can be free of her service to Patro is through death or Patro's willingness to release her, as he has magically bound her to him. When in close proximity, he can compel her to do his bidding, even against her will. Cottia has only one friend, Gema, who is gifted with fire magic and who is also a captive of Patro. Patro sends Cottia, undercover, to attend the Giddelian Prince Ezer's betrothal selection ceremony to kill an attendee and start a war, or to fool the prince into choosing to marry her, allowing Patro to influence the prince through Cottia, in exchange for Cottia's freedom from the life of an assassin - with one caveat... if she fails, Gema will pay the price. When Prince Ezer discovers Cottia's true identity, he does not imprison her. Instead, he tells her of the Ancient One (Jesus) who can give her true freedom and forgiveness for all her sins. Can Cottia be persuaded to believe? And with Gema's life in the balance, will Cottia trust that the Ancient One is more powerful than Patro? The world-building is outstanding and provides a rich Latin flavor. The action is engrossing and the stakes are high - I read this in one day! I highly recommend this for fans of YA, faith-based fantasy/adventure!

[Basemath N. A. Abernathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

From beginning to end the listener is swept off their feet and into the world of Agata, where magic (giftings) are real and wizers who are charged to protect, turn to evil. Where assassins who join the Order, never leave..

Such was Cottia, gifted and powerful, yet bound forever to beatings and nightmares.

This is my first audiobook with Lisa Lynn, and I love her narration style. You could feel the characters emotions and I really appreciate that Lisa took the time to learn how to pronounce the Spanish words. I hate it when narrators mispronounce names, and I am very happy to have found a narrator I can trust. I would highly recommend listening to this audiobook!

Usually, I find that books with Christian themes are preachy, but I love how Candice Yamnitz handles this! The message is there, but is interwoven into the plot so that you do not notice.
I loved Cottia! She is snarky and sneaky and everything you want in an assassin, and I love her romance! Those two are absolutely perfect for each other. I want more!
I appreciated that the bad guy was actually evil, not some misunderstood sop with a traumatic backstory.
Negatives: Nothing. Except that I don’t have the next book! I love this world and can’t wait to return.
Cussing: none
Gore: characters are wounded and bleeding (not very graphic)
Magic: Yes!
Romance: Yes! It was so sweet!

I received an ALC from the narrator. I was not compensated for this review, all thoughts are my own.

[Jodi · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was the first of her works I've ever read. Cottia, is an assasin with healing powers. But she longs to be free and give life instead of taking it but feels helpless and trapped. Bargains are stricked, plans are made, and chaos ensues. She may be a killer but deep down she has a big heart and cares strongly for the few she is close with. She is strong, witty, stubborn, and feisty. I really loved her character, she has the past trauma that we get to see her overcome and heal from. This novella is a fast-paced read, spending most of its time on the central characters instead of extensive world-building. Despite that, you get a feel for the Latin-flavored world that Yamnitz has created. I enjoyed the fact that there is a redemption arc for the main character Cottia, and the romance is sweet and clean. I did feel as though the story was quite rushed, but I realize that this is a novella, not a full novel. Overall, the story is creative and enjoyable, but it was difficult to follow the action at times. I would have liked to know a little more about the giftings and where they come from, and I think a few aspects of the story could have been more developed. Still, all in all, this was an interesting story, and it did intrigue me enough to want to read the author's other work. Well done!

[Julia N White · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cottia’s life is not the one she would have chosen. A seventeen-year-old assassin is unusual
but her deadly gifting makes it easy. A mere mental ‘pinch’ and any of the Whyzer’s enemies fall
down lifeless. Cottia is sick of being used as a tool in a game of power but how can she free herself
when her friend’s life hangs in the balance? She makes a deal with the Whyzer for her freedom, but
it's not as easy as it seems. She must seduce a prince and start a war by assassinating a noble. Can
Cottia finish this last hit and gain her freedom? Can she even have a life outside this lethal
profession?
Ruthless is a fantastic fusion of Latin regency and fantasy.
A steamy slow-burn romance without the spicy scenes. Cottia’s headstrong spirit and
determination kept me rutting for her even as she acted out her deadly mission. Her protectiveness
over her friend and battle for both of their freedoms is admirable. Don’t even get me started about
the hunk known as Prince Ezer! His noble spirit, wit, and all-around well-mannered nature will make
you swoon.
Score sheet.
Spice/Romance: Mild kissing/embracing.
Violence: No excessive gore, but death and assassination mentioned multiple times.
Morals/Worldview: Christian worldview/allegorical God.
Recommended reading age: 16+

[Megan Parmerter · Rating 4 out of 5]

I just finished reading Ruthless: An Agata Sea Novella by Candice Pedraza Yamnitz. This was the first of her works I've ever read, and I enjoyed it very much! It was my first foray into the world of Christian fantasy, and it gives me hope that there is a place for such stories.

This novella is a fast-paced read, spending most of its time on the central characters instead of extensive world-building. Despite that, you get a feel for the Latin-flavored world that Yamnitz has created, and I would love to see more of it (guess that means I'll have to check out Unbetrothed!). I enjoyed the fact that there is a redemption arc for the main character Cottia, and the romance is sweet and clean. I did feel as though the story was quite rushed, but I realize that this is a novella, not a full novel.

Overall, the story is creative and enjoyable, but it was difficult to follow the action at times. I would have liked to know a little more about the giftings and where they come from, and I think a few aspects of the story could have been more developed. Still, all in all, this was an interesting story, and it did intrigue me enough to want to read the author's other work. Well done!

[Michelle Kaderly Welsh · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Ruthless by Candice Pedraza Yamnitz, an Agata Sea Novella, Cottia’s next assignment as an assassin lands her in a contest to become betrothed to the prince. This complicates her plan to escape an evil whyzer.

Because Cottia fails to kill a target, the man who owns her bargains with her. For her freedom, she must not fail this assignment. He holds her best friend as collateral. But some power greater than her magical gifting is at work preventing her from completing her assignment.

How will Cottia escape to freedom and save her best friend and the prince who has taken a fancy to her?

Ruthless examines the themes of using our gifts for good and changing our choices by changing our allegiances.

This well-written, fantasy novella leads into another novel that readers will want to pick up so that they may know the end of the story. I was hoping for the story to continue so I could learn about how they get together. I know they marry eventually since I read Unbetrothed. Ruthless is about the mother of Princess Beatriz in the novel, Unbetrothed.