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The Divine Between #3
Between Fear and Favor
The stakes are high, and the guilt runs deep. Haunted by their decisions, the King and Queen of Astana must defend their kingdom and protect those they hold most dear—without losing themselves. With the leader of the Myriad allied with the Nythyrian queen, desperate alliances must be forged, defenses must be fortified, and sacrifices must be made. Will that be enough?
The cost of war is steep; who will pay the price?
Please This book contains explicit and darker elements, including mature language, violence, and sexual content. It is not intended for anyone under 18 years of age. This is book three in a four book series.
The cost of war is steep; who will pay the price?
Please This book contains explicit and darker elements, including mature language, violence, and sexual content. It is not intended for anyone under 18 years of age. This is book three in a four book series.
708 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 13, 2024
125 people are currently reading
2860 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
September 29, 2024
With much sadness I give this book two stars. Between the uncaring and disconnected POVs. The confusion of the main plot. The added filler being thrown at all chapters. The lack of development and action. The lack of INTERACTIONS between the characters. And the awful ending that seemed like it was added just to end of a cliff hanger, I couldn’t justify giving this book a higher rating.
I know the author struggled to write this book, and it shows. And I can’t even say it needed more editing, this series needed to be a trilogy, there isn’t enough going on inside this book to justify not reshaping it to fit the whole plot within just three books.
I finished this book missing the story of the first two instalments, they were much better, focusing on the right characters and relationships. I couldn’t care less for most of the povs during the book. And all I wanted was for Elora to talk to her damn mother and father but not even that we got.
I know the author struggled to write this book, and it shows. And I can’t even say it needed more editing, this series needed to be a trilogy, there isn’t enough going on inside this book to justify not reshaping it to fit the whole plot within just three books.
I finished this book missing the story of the first two instalments, they were much better, focusing on the right characters and relationships. I couldn’t care less for most of the povs during the book. And all I wanted was for Elora to talk to her damn mother and father but not even that we got.
October 6, 2024
It PAINS me to say this, but… this book was pretty disappointing.
I’ll start off with a positive. Something I found unique is that there isn’t really 2 main charcaters that are the focus. Most multi POV romantasy books still usually have 2 characters that are the “main” characters. And in the first 2 books of the series, that was the case. There were other POV’s but the main romantic story revolved around Rain and Em and their story. That is not the case in this one. There is a focus on several different characters and their stories, with none of them being the main focal point or any certain characters receiving more attention. I enjoyed it. Lavenia’s POV was probably my favorite.
While I DID like the multi POV in this book, I didn’t like that we would be right in the middle of a battle or something suspenseful with one character, the chapter ends, and the next several chapters are different POV’s of a character in a completely different place. So it’s like that suspense that was built up just goes away and by the time we get back to that character’s POV, it’s not as exciting anymore. It kept pulling me out of the story, and I found myself wanting to put the book down and come back to it later.
There was nothing inherently wrong with the book, but it just never hooked me in. It felt like the story would build steam and momentum, then lose it a chapter later. Emmeline would come up with these great plans to help and I started getting excited for her to be a badass again, but they literally never worked or even really seemed to be a thought out plan once executed. It made her character seem foolish and despondent, which was a far cry from the character we got to know in previous books. It was like she was always throwing these Hail Mary plans out and not really caring what happened afterwards, then surviving and having to deal with her impulsive actions. Rain was often the same.
There was also a lot of filler and focus on things that didn’t really contribute to the overall story and important parts that pertained to the conflict were rushed. The whole scene with Emma and the Supreme in the tomb towards the end of the book was so confusing because of how rushed it was. Things kept happening off page and then the reader was left being forced to catch up to what was happening.
Things just felt disjointed and lacked passion overall. I really loved the first 2 books, but sadly struggled with this one. And the ending?? What the fuck was that and how did we go from zero to 100 so fast?
I’ll start off with a positive. Something I found unique is that there isn’t really 2 main charcaters that are the focus. Most multi POV romantasy books still usually have 2 characters that are the “main” characters. And in the first 2 books of the series, that was the case. There were other POV’s but the main romantic story revolved around Rain and Em and their story. That is not the case in this one. There is a focus on several different characters and their stories, with none of them being the main focal point or any certain characters receiving more attention. I enjoyed it. Lavenia’s POV was probably my favorite.
While I DID like the multi POV in this book, I didn’t like that we would be right in the middle of a battle or something suspenseful with one character, the chapter ends, and the next several chapters are different POV’s of a character in a completely different place. So it’s like that suspense that was built up just goes away and by the time we get back to that character’s POV, it’s not as exciting anymore. It kept pulling me out of the story, and I found myself wanting to put the book down and come back to it later.
There was nothing inherently wrong with the book, but it just never hooked me in. It felt like the story would build steam and momentum, then lose it a chapter later. Emmeline would come up with these great plans to help and I started getting excited for her to be a badass again, but they literally never worked or even really seemed to be a thought out plan once executed. It made her character seem foolish and despondent, which was a far cry from the character we got to know in previous books. It was like she was always throwing these Hail Mary plans out and not really caring what happened afterwards, then surviving and having to deal with her impulsive actions. Rain was often the same.
There was also a lot of filler and focus on things that didn’t really contribute to the overall story and important parts that pertained to the conflict were rushed. The whole scene with Emma and the Supreme in the tomb towards the end of the book was so confusing because of how rushed it was. Things kept happening off page and then the reader was left being forced to catch up to what was happening.
Things just felt disjointed and lacked passion overall. I really loved the first 2 books, but sadly struggled with this one. And the ending?? What the fuck was that and how did we go from zero to 100 so fast?
January 20, 2025
Well fuck.
**Spoilers & a summary of all that happened in this book**
I am...... confused.
Okay lets start at the beginning. First off, this series should've been a triology. There is so much fluff and unnecessary plot line in this book. But even so, I still over all had a fantastic and heartbreaking time. I thought this was the last book until I reached about 60% of the way in. Then I was extra upset because who knows when the 4th book will come out. Which unfortunately means I need a cheat sheet for the next book.
I think the easiest way is to do this by coupling.
Elora & Cyran
At the beginning of this book Vesta is in a full out war with the Supreme who is teamed up with the Nythyr. Because of this, Elora and Cyran are sent away with the queen mother, Shivani and Thrya are sent to Crown's Cottage to hide. They're suppose to be doing research on how to summon a God to ask for a favor. Elora is pissed at her mother because she let her friend Theo die while she saved Dewalt. She's refusing to speak to her which is super sad for Emma. Also a little short sided considering her parents are fighting a fucking war and could honestly die at any moment. Through spending time together Cyran and her start to develop their friendship again. Elora decides to forgive him though Cyran has a harder time trying to forgive himself. (Which makes sense seeing as he literally killed Elora.) They end up moving to Emma's parents house, Ravemont because Elora wants a break from Cyran. But of course Cyran follows her and they move on. While there Cyran recognizes Elora's Grandmother (Emma's mother) as the seer who told him he had to kill Elora. Elora is obviously super upset seeing as everyone in her life has betrayed her. Cyran comforts her and kisses her. They end up finding her Grandmother's secret rose garden and realize it's one of the things they need to summon a god. Elora realizes she forgives her Mother while they travel back to the capital. They send the flowers to her parents with someone else. When they reach the capital Cyran realizes all the novices they saved from Folterra have been murdered. He also thinks the children were killed even though we know they weren't. This spurs Cyran into action and he decides to go back to his country and take up his mantle as king. Which honestly it's about time.
Lavenia & Mairin
Lavenia wakes up and is prisoner to the sea queen Estri. Honestly her whole plot line once again was stupidly boring and I really dreaded her chapters. There wasn't enough storyline for her to hold my interest. Even as a prisoner of war basically. Lavenia is suppose to be on this self discovery journey but it never really feels that way. She basically is like, huh I'm who I've always been and that's okay. Cool story bro. Anyways. she finds out the sea queen is actually a goddess. There is a prophecy that one of her daughters will kill her so she keeps them all in prison. Mairin got her fins back for giving Estri Lavenia. Why she wanted to go back is so fucking confusing. I hope some of that is explained in the next book. The ocean is literally prisoner to Estri. She rules with an iron fist and unlimited power. And is obviously paranoid about her daughters. Elora decides she's gonna kill Estri and save Mairin even though she isn't sure if she even likes her anymore after her betrayal. She has Estri turn her into a Merrow because in her brain that makes her Estri's daughter. Which apparently is true because as she's is about to go down on her, she manages to kill Estri. She swallows some of her blood and becomes the new goddess? Sea queen thing. Whatever. She has a bunch of power now.
Nor & Dewalt
While these two are probably my favorite to be reading, they're storyline also drug a little bit. They're basically traveling the whole time. Dewalt has to go to a coastal city because the captain there is dead and he needs to take over. They're entire plotline was Nor being head over heels in love with Dewalt, and him being scared of his big feelings. Honeslty Nor should've written him off the moment he decided to call out for his ex-dead-girlfriend as he died rather than her. He honestly was so annoying in the second book. I couldn't get over his endless love for his teenage summer fling. And the only reason he decides to not feel guilty for liking Nor is because said ex=-girlfriend told him it was okay. Ugh.
Anywho. They go through a bunch of random trials. AT one point Nora falls into a frozen river. Dewalt of course saves her by getting naked with her. He then teaches her how to masturbate. They make it to the port city and he's acting all weird and cagey again because he's got the big feelings going on. While there the Nythyr assassins (Which are the queens adopted daughters) show up. Apparently the general was dating one of them. But they fell in love so I guess now she's on the good guy side? Anyways. There are two bad guy assassins and the one good one who's name I can't remember. They get into a fight with Dewalt in the middle. While that is happening in the armory, Nor is delivering a baby and realizing the assassins have inacted some illegal magic that basically is a bomb. The Mother who just had a baby has wind magic. Nor realizes the bomb is moveable so they move it up into the air and over the armory trying to get it out of the city. It goes off in the air so most of the damage is contained. Dewalt get's a tranquilizer to the leg. Nor is held hostage by one of the assassin sisters for a second. But her and Dewalt take out the other 2. (So only the "good" one is still alive.) Dewalt thinks he's dying and starts to freak out because he loves Nor but what if she dies. He doesn't die. But he fucks up the nerves in his leg because he ripped out the barbed needle. He gets healed. Nor and him have a come to Jesus. He's scared. She says grow up. He say's my dead lover Lucia told me in my half dead state we're meant to be together. I don't want to take away your choices. Nor says I didn't know about that and still fell in love with you. That was my choice. She's about to leave, he begs for forgives. She accepts. He takes her virginity. They decide to stay together always.
Emmaline & Rainer
These two are basically apart for the first 1/2 of the book again. They're in the same kingdom but he's fighting on the front lines and she is healing people. There is a lot of fighting that bores me. I don't understand how they're kingdom was so unprepared for war when they basically knew it was coming but oh well. Rainer hides the fact from Emmaline that all the supreme want's is some of her blood. All the fighting could've been avoided if she just gave him some. And instead of trusting her to make a smart decision, he hides the truth from her again. How she ever trusts him I have no idea. He continually treats her like a child. I still love them together but that fact drives me CRAZY.
They don't want to give the supreme her blood because you need the blood of the beloved to call forth a god and ask for a blessing. They realize the supreme is wanting to wake the forest god. The other gods put him into a sleep because he was destroying the world over his kid getting killed. Obviously we don't want him back.
The supreme and the queen Nereza breach the city walls and get Rain all good and trapped. Elora shows up with her dragons. Rain didn't want to use the dragons because when they get hurt Emma gets hurt. And when they die Elora forgets the memory she made them from. Elora gives some of her blood. One of the dragons rips off the Supremes arm before he can escape. They're not sure if he has Emma's blood or not. One of the dragons Ryo dies.
Emma and Rainer realize they have to stop the supreme. They rush off the the temple in Lamera where the font is to stop him from waking the forest god. They stop him and take him prisoner than head to the port city where Dewalt is because they want to ask a favor from the Goddess Aonara I think. Elora was gonna heal Dewalt but apparently there wasn't time? I really don't know what the rush was. They take the Supreme and Dewalt and Nor to the cliff to call down the goddess. It all goes very wrong. The goddess is PISSED. Apparently calling her back to the mortal realm made her mortal. (I would be mad too honestly.) Also Elora didn't use her blood. Rainer pricked his finger on one of the roses they needed. Emma realizes Rainer is the beloved not her. She is actually the Accursed. Which is interesting because this whole time I thought Rainer was the Accursed. I was so close to getting it right. The goddess is actually Lark. Who was in love with Soren (Rain's father) and the Elf king. She was pregnant when she through herself off a tower. Apparently that baby lived and was Declan. (Cyran's evil brother who thought he was the accursed.) She burns the supreme to the ground because he was her friend when she was Lark but apparently there was some bad blood there. Emma realizes Aonara is gonna kill everyone she loves so she throws herself and the goddess off the cliff to the ocean. Since Lavenia is all powerful and shit she hears Rain's prayers and heads that way. Rain get's to Emma but she's is toasty burnt and dying. Apparently no one there can heal her which is wild. Rain is the beloved and Lavenia is a literal goddess. I guess when it's your time to go it's your time to go. Emmaline says goodbye to Rain and DIES. Literally IS DEAD. All the dragons go poof. The bond is torn apart. Like no fake death here. All real. My mouth fell open. Did not see that coming.
I really was convinced she'll come back in the next book but who knows. Poor Elora never got to tell her mother she forgave her. And Rainer is gonna have big man feelings I just know it and be all depressed and shit. I don't understand what the plotline of the entire next book will be. The supreme is dead. Declan is dead. I guess maybe Queen Nereza has to be dealt with. But all her killer daughters are basically dead so what's she gonna do? I just don't know how the author will fill another 600 pages but I'm sure she'll find a way. ;)
Also Rainer and Emmaline don't use their heart slowly power enough. They could literally make so many people just pass out instead of killing them. Also Emma is suppose to have all this power and it always runs out in like 5 seconds. Why? Why is she suppose to be so powerful and strong but actually never has any power. It drives me crazy!
I also feel like I still don't understand the powers. It doesn't seem like everyone has them but every character that we read about has a power. I still don't understand the difference between conduits and other people with powers. I also thought you had to continually drink from the font to keep your slow aging but that's never really spoken of again. I'm not even sure what favor Emmaline and Rainer were gonna ask for. I hate that I still am confused over this world after reading 1800 pages.
**Spoilers & a summary of all that happened in this book**
I am...... confused.
Okay lets start at the beginning. First off, this series should've been a triology. There is so much fluff and unnecessary plot line in this book. But even so, I still over all had a fantastic and heartbreaking time. I thought this was the last book until I reached about 60% of the way in. Then I was extra upset because who knows when the 4th book will come out. Which unfortunately means I need a cheat sheet for the next book.
I think the easiest way is to do this by coupling.
Elora & Cyran
At the beginning of this book Vesta is in a full out war with the Supreme who is teamed up with the Nythyr. Because of this, Elora and Cyran are sent away with the queen mother, Shivani and Thrya are sent to Crown's Cottage to hide. They're suppose to be doing research on how to summon a God to ask for a favor. Elora is pissed at her mother because she let her friend Theo die while she saved Dewalt. She's refusing to speak to her which is super sad for Emma. Also a little short sided considering her parents are fighting a fucking war and could honestly die at any moment. Through spending time together Cyran and her start to develop their friendship again. Elora decides to forgive him though Cyran has a harder time trying to forgive himself. (Which makes sense seeing as he literally killed Elora.) They end up moving to Emma's parents house, Ravemont because Elora wants a break from Cyran. But of course Cyran follows her and they move on. While there Cyran recognizes Elora's Grandmother (Emma's mother) as the seer who told him he had to kill Elora. Elora is obviously super upset seeing as everyone in her life has betrayed her. Cyran comforts her and kisses her. They end up finding her Grandmother's secret rose garden and realize it's one of the things they need to summon a god. Elora realizes she forgives her Mother while they travel back to the capital. They send the flowers to her parents with someone else. When they reach the capital Cyran realizes all the novices they saved from Folterra have been murdered. He also thinks the children were killed even though we know they weren't. This spurs Cyran into action and he decides to go back to his country and take up his mantle as king. Which honestly it's about time.
Lavenia & Mairin
Lavenia wakes up and is prisoner to the sea queen Estri. Honestly her whole plot line once again was stupidly boring and I really dreaded her chapters. There wasn't enough storyline for her to hold my interest. Even as a prisoner of war basically. Lavenia is suppose to be on this self discovery journey but it never really feels that way. She basically is like, huh I'm who I've always been and that's okay. Cool story bro. Anyways. she finds out the sea queen is actually a goddess. There is a prophecy that one of her daughters will kill her so she keeps them all in prison. Mairin got her fins back for giving Estri Lavenia. Why she wanted to go back is so fucking confusing. I hope some of that is explained in the next book. The ocean is literally prisoner to Estri. She rules with an iron fist and unlimited power. And is obviously paranoid about her daughters. Elora decides she's gonna kill Estri and save Mairin even though she isn't sure if she even likes her anymore after her betrayal. She has Estri turn her into a Merrow because in her brain that makes her Estri's daughter. Which apparently is true because as she's is about to go down on her, she manages to kill Estri. She swallows some of her blood and becomes the new goddess? Sea queen thing. Whatever. She has a bunch of power now.
Nor & Dewalt
While these two are probably my favorite to be reading, they're storyline also drug a little bit. They're basically traveling the whole time. Dewalt has to go to a coastal city because the captain there is dead and he needs to take over. They're entire plotline was Nor being head over heels in love with Dewalt, and him being scared of his big feelings. Honeslty Nor should've written him off the moment he decided to call out for his ex-dead-girlfriend as he died rather than her. He honestly was so annoying in the second book. I couldn't get over his endless love for his teenage summer fling. And the only reason he decides to not feel guilty for liking Nor is because said ex=-girlfriend told him it was okay. Ugh.
Anywho. They go through a bunch of random trials. AT one point Nora falls into a frozen river. Dewalt of course saves her by getting naked with her. He then teaches her how to masturbate. They make it to the port city and he's acting all weird and cagey again because he's got the big feelings going on. While there the Nythyr assassins (Which are the queens adopted daughters) show up. Apparently the general was dating one of them. But they fell in love so I guess now she's on the good guy side? Anyways. There are two bad guy assassins and the one good one who's name I can't remember. They get into a fight with Dewalt in the middle. While that is happening in the armory, Nor is delivering a baby and realizing the assassins have inacted some illegal magic that basically is a bomb. The Mother who just had a baby has wind magic. Nor realizes the bomb is moveable so they move it up into the air and over the armory trying to get it out of the city. It goes off in the air so most of the damage is contained. Dewalt get's a tranquilizer to the leg. Nor is held hostage by one of the assassin sisters for a second. But her and Dewalt take out the other 2. (So only the "good" one is still alive.) Dewalt thinks he's dying and starts to freak out because he loves Nor but what if she dies. He doesn't die. But he fucks up the nerves in his leg because he ripped out the barbed needle. He gets healed. Nor and him have a come to Jesus. He's scared. She says grow up. He say's my dead lover Lucia told me in my half dead state we're meant to be together. I don't want to take away your choices. Nor says I didn't know about that and still fell in love with you. That was my choice. She's about to leave, he begs for forgives. She accepts. He takes her virginity. They decide to stay together always.
Emmaline & Rainer
These two are basically apart for the first 1/2 of the book again. They're in the same kingdom but he's fighting on the front lines and she is healing people. There is a lot of fighting that bores me. I don't understand how they're kingdom was so unprepared for war when they basically knew it was coming but oh well. Rainer hides the fact from Emmaline that all the supreme want's is some of her blood. All the fighting could've been avoided if she just gave him some. And instead of trusting her to make a smart decision, he hides the truth from her again. How she ever trusts him I have no idea. He continually treats her like a child. I still love them together but that fact drives me CRAZY.
They don't want to give the supreme her blood because you need the blood of the beloved to call forth a god and ask for a blessing. They realize the supreme is wanting to wake the forest god. The other gods put him into a sleep because he was destroying the world over his kid getting killed. Obviously we don't want him back.
The supreme and the queen Nereza breach the city walls and get Rain all good and trapped. Elora shows up with her dragons. Rain didn't want to use the dragons because when they get hurt Emma gets hurt. And when they die Elora forgets the memory she made them from. Elora gives some of her blood. One of the dragons rips off the Supremes arm before he can escape. They're not sure if he has Emma's blood or not. One of the dragons Ryo dies.
Emma and Rainer realize they have to stop the supreme. They rush off the the temple in Lamera where the font is to stop him from waking the forest god. They stop him and take him prisoner than head to the port city where Dewalt is because they want to ask a favor from the Goddess Aonara I think. Elora was gonna heal Dewalt but apparently there wasn't time? I really don't know what the rush was. They take the Supreme and Dewalt and Nor to the cliff to call down the goddess. It all goes very wrong. The goddess is PISSED. Apparently calling her back to the mortal realm made her mortal. (I would be mad too honestly.) Also Elora didn't use her blood. Rainer pricked his finger on one of the roses they needed. Emma realizes Rainer is the beloved not her. She is actually the Accursed. Which is interesting because this whole time I thought Rainer was the Accursed. I was so close to getting it right. The goddess is actually Lark. Who was in love with Soren (Rain's father) and the Elf king. She was pregnant when she through herself off a tower. Apparently that baby lived and was Declan. (Cyran's evil brother who thought he was the accursed.) She burns the supreme to the ground because he was her friend when she was Lark but apparently there was some bad blood there. Emma realizes Aonara is gonna kill everyone she loves so she throws herself and the goddess off the cliff to the ocean. Since Lavenia is all powerful and shit she hears Rain's prayers and heads that way. Rain get's to Emma but she's is toasty burnt and dying. Apparently no one there can heal her which is wild. Rain is the beloved and Lavenia is a literal goddess. I guess when it's your time to go it's your time to go. Emmaline says goodbye to Rain and DIES. Literally IS DEAD. All the dragons go poof. The bond is torn apart. Like no fake death here. All real. My mouth fell open. Did not see that coming.
I really was convinced she'll come back in the next book but who knows. Poor Elora never got to tell her mother she forgave her. And Rainer is gonna have big man feelings I just know it and be all depressed and shit. I don't understand what the plotline of the entire next book will be. The supreme is dead. Declan is dead. I guess maybe Queen Nereza has to be dealt with. But all her killer daughters are basically dead so what's she gonna do? I just don't know how the author will fill another 600 pages but I'm sure she'll find a way. ;)
Also Rainer and Emmaline don't use their heart slowly power enough. They could literally make so many people just pass out instead of killing them. Also Emma is suppose to have all this power and it always runs out in like 5 seconds. Why? Why is she suppose to be so powerful and strong but actually never has any power. It drives me crazy!
I also feel like I still don't understand the powers. It doesn't seem like everyone has them but every character that we read about has a power. I still don't understand the difference between conduits and other people with powers. I also thought you had to continually drink from the font to keep your slow aging but that's never really spoken of again. I'm not even sure what favor Emmaline and Rainer were gonna ask for. I hate that I still am confused over this world after reading 1800 pages.
Want to read
October 11, 2023Note to self Oct 10 2023: this hasn't actually been published. Goodreads in incorrect. Keep waiting.
September 13, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️+
Hiiiiii I am obsessed with this series!!!!! I honestly thought the second book couldn’t be topped but this book???!!!! I could not put it down and I’m salivating for book 4 (poor Jess just finished this one).
SPOILERS FOR BOOK 2 ahead since this is book 3…
At the end of book 2, war raged on as Emmeline and Rain became king and queen and realized the true enemy was the Supreme Leader and not the evil Declan. Lavinia had been sent to the world of the Sea Queen, Dewalt and Nor are fighting their feelings, and Elora and her murderer/friend have been sent away to safety.
Between Fear and Favor has *so* many povs because the story moved through all four pairings, all playing a pivotal role in trying to end the war without bringing destruction, and all trying to find where they fit in romantic relationships and also in the kingdom. Every chapter ended on a cliffhanger and once I started I could NOT put it down. I also cared so much about every single pov which is so hard to do in a sweeping fantasy like (mega side eye to some other authors).
Just like in her previous books, Jess does such a beautiful job with the complexities of grief, love, family, duty, and sense of self, showing the various different ways everyone handle the impossible to handle. It’s so beautiful, so sweet and somehow spicy when she wants it to spice. The found family vibes? Immaculate. She broke my heart a bunch, but she reminds me it’s a romance so an hae is coming in book 4.
Anyway for any romantasy girlies, you have to check out this series - 3 out of four books ready today
Hiiiiii I am obsessed with this series!!!!! I honestly thought the second book couldn’t be topped but this book???!!!! I could not put it down and I’m salivating for book 4 (poor Jess just finished this one).
SPOILERS FOR BOOK 2 ahead since this is book 3…
At the end of book 2, war raged on as Emmeline and Rain became king and queen and realized the true enemy was the Supreme Leader and not the evil Declan. Lavinia had been sent to the world of the Sea Queen, Dewalt and Nor are fighting their feelings, and Elora and her murderer/friend have been sent away to safety.
Between Fear and Favor has *so* many povs because the story moved through all four pairings, all playing a pivotal role in trying to end the war without bringing destruction, and all trying to find where they fit in romantic relationships and also in the kingdom. Every chapter ended on a cliffhanger and once I started I could NOT put it down. I also cared so much about every single pov which is so hard to do in a sweeping fantasy like (mega side eye to some other authors).
Just like in her previous books, Jess does such a beautiful job with the complexities of grief, love, family, duty, and sense of self, showing the various different ways everyone handle the impossible to handle. It’s so beautiful, so sweet and somehow spicy when she wants it to spice. The found family vibes? Immaculate. She broke my heart a bunch, but she reminds me it’s a romance so an hae is coming in book 4.
Anyway for any romantasy girlies, you have to check out this series - 3 out of four books ready today
September 30, 2024
Between Fear and Favor was one of my most highly anticipated fantasy romance reads and my gods, did this author deliver! This story has burrowed so deep into my soul.
The Divine Between will be my forever fantasy romance and Between Fear and Favor, book 3 in the series lived up to everything my heart had hoped it would be!
This author's writing continues to provide the most amazingly vivid and emotionally moving imagery, allowing me to feel every moment as I watched the story of these character unfold beautifully in my mind.
And the relationships all felt wholly unique and organic to the varying and complex characters.
I was beyond intrigued, swooned, laughed, and blushed A LOT, devoured all the witty banter, and I was literally blown away with the twists, turns, and revelations in this story. And please know I sobbed!! I found myself referring to once side character as main characters throughout this read each moment felt that impactful.
Their own intricate story lines folded into the overarching story in the most beautiful way, and I found myself falling more in love, and filled with immense hope for them all.
This multi-pov story is exactly what our hearts truly want and need. I was emotionally invested in every single chapter. The story lines all interconnected
seamlessly and held me utterly captivated.
Each POV furthering the plot, while also furthering incredible character growth, and bringing on new twists, revelations, and good gods, the most wonderfully interwoven epic world building.
For the love of all fantasy romance, read this story, read this series!
The Divine Between will be my forever fantasy romance and Between Fear and Favor, book 3 in the series lived up to everything my heart had hoped it would be!
This author's writing continues to provide the most amazingly vivid and emotionally moving imagery, allowing me to feel every moment as I watched the story of these character unfold beautifully in my mind.
And the relationships all felt wholly unique and organic to the varying and complex characters.
I was beyond intrigued, swooned, laughed, and blushed A LOT, devoured all the witty banter, and I was literally blown away with the twists, turns, and revelations in this story. And please know I sobbed!! I found myself referring to once side character as main characters throughout this read each moment felt that impactful.
Their own intricate story lines folded into the overarching story in the most beautiful way, and I found myself falling more in love, and filled with immense hope for them all.
This multi-pov story is exactly what our hearts truly want and need. I was emotionally invested in every single chapter. The story lines all interconnected
seamlessly and held me utterly captivated.
Each POV furthering the plot, while also furthering incredible character growth, and bringing on new twists, revelations, and good gods, the most wonderfully interwoven epic world building.
For the love of all fantasy romance, read this story, read this series!
December 27, 2024
I haven't read this since it hasn't been released yet. My rating comes solely off the previous 2 books in this series. There's no way this book would be anything less. The writing has been amazing. My interest has been kept throughout both books. They both sucked me in and every spare moment was spent wanting to know what's going to happen next with these characters. I'm even more excited to see where some of these building relationships lead to. This will definitely be a five star just like the rest!!!
September 29, 2024
I cannot actually pinpoint but halfway through, I got bored. There were too many sub-plots that left me confused.
I think having such long books should have a purpose and keep the readers hooked. The ending though was good and has made me curious for the next one.
I think having such long books should have a purpose and keep the readers hooked. The ending though was good and has made me curious for the next one.
October 2, 2024
Boring and confusing. Writing felt disconnected from the first two books. The author definitely struggled with this one.
October 19, 2024
DNF at 57% the book still wasn’t clicking with me and I gave up. Loved the beginning of the series but not this one.
September 22, 2024
Book Review: Between Fear and Favor (The Divine Between Series, Book 3)
At long last, I had the pleasure of receiving the ARC for the third installment of the beautiful The Divine Between series, Between Fear and Favor, and I couldn’t be more excited to share my thoughts. First and foremost, I have to say: Thank you, Jess! This book was so eagerly awaited and so thoroughly enjoyed.
Jess, your writing is a true gift—your ability to weave emotions into every scene, whether they're moments of joy, tenderness, difficulty, or raw vulnerability, is nothing short of extraordinary. I understand that, like all creators, you may question whether it’s "good enough." Rest assured—it absolutely is... and then some.
For those contemplating picking up this book, let me say this: Yes, do it! Between Fear and Favor is so much more than a fantasy story; it’s a deeply human one. While the divine, the magic, and the world-building are all mesmerizing, at its core, this novel is about second chances, the love we find in unexpected places, and the complexities of relationships—be they romantic, platonic, or familial. It’s about what it means to be human, to feel delicate yet powerful, and to make choices despite our fears and doubts.
In this third installment, we accompany familiar characters from books one and two: our main couple, Em and Rain; their daughter, Elora, and her complicated yet tender Prince Charming, Cy; as well as Rain's sister, Lavenia, and his best friend—and my absolute favorite character—Dewalt. My love for Dewalt has only been confirmed further in this latest book. Additionally, and thankfully, we get to read a character’s point of view that was introduced in the second book—Nor's—for it is in her eyes that Jess has allowed us a deeper view of Dewalt's character as his newest, and perhaps most important, challenge.
Rain and Em must navigate the crumbling world around them, questioning their choices repeatedly as they take on the heavy mantle of ruling a kingdom. How much are they willing to sacrifice? And, more importantly, what will they refuse to sacrifice, even as the world threatens to turn to ash and despair?
Meanwhile, Elora and Cy are consumed by their grief and guilt, struggling with the painful choice between holding on to that pain or choosing the far more difficult path of forgiveness and letting go. On the other hand, Lavenia and Nor are forced to confront their own identities, detached from the expectations of others, as they begin questioning who they want to become for themselves.
And then there's Dewalt—witty, loyal, and deeply complex. His humor and heart have long endeared him to readers, but now he faces perhaps the most difficult task of all: allowing himself to be vulnerable again after experiencing loss so profound it once felt impossible to recover from.
Least but not last, this book finally addresses the mystery behind the gods, the religious institution that worships them, the Myriad, and its most important representative, the Supreme. This has been a part much awaited for me, perhaps more than any other. The stories and references to the gods not only provide clarity but also satisfy my love for myths and legends. I adore seeing these myths deconstructed and questioned, especially when they reflect the very human emotions, desires, and ambitions of those who created them.
I cannot wait to see how the story unfolds from here, though I am beyond grateful Jess has promised us a happy ending for our main couple—no matter the shape or form it takes. I am so ready for the journey ahead!
At long last, I had the pleasure of receiving the ARC for the third installment of the beautiful The Divine Between series, Between Fear and Favor, and I couldn’t be more excited to share my thoughts. First and foremost, I have to say: Thank you, Jess! This book was so eagerly awaited and so thoroughly enjoyed.
Jess, your writing is a true gift—your ability to weave emotions into every scene, whether they're moments of joy, tenderness, difficulty, or raw vulnerability, is nothing short of extraordinary. I understand that, like all creators, you may question whether it’s "good enough." Rest assured—it absolutely is... and then some.
For those contemplating picking up this book, let me say this: Yes, do it! Between Fear and Favor is so much more than a fantasy story; it’s a deeply human one. While the divine, the magic, and the world-building are all mesmerizing, at its core, this novel is about second chances, the love we find in unexpected places, and the complexities of relationships—be they romantic, platonic, or familial. It’s about what it means to be human, to feel delicate yet powerful, and to make choices despite our fears and doubts.
In this third installment, we accompany familiar characters from books one and two: our main couple, Em and Rain; their daughter, Elora, and her complicated yet tender Prince Charming, Cy; as well as Rain's sister, Lavenia, and his best friend—and my absolute favorite character—Dewalt. My love for Dewalt has only been confirmed further in this latest book. Additionally, and thankfully, we get to read a character’s point of view that was introduced in the second book—Nor's—for it is in her eyes that Jess has allowed us a deeper view of Dewalt's character as his newest, and perhaps most important, challenge.
Rain and Em must navigate the crumbling world around them, questioning their choices repeatedly as they take on the heavy mantle of ruling a kingdom. How much are they willing to sacrifice? And, more importantly, what will they refuse to sacrifice, even as the world threatens to turn to ash and despair?
Meanwhile, Elora and Cy are consumed by their grief and guilt, struggling with the painful choice between holding on to that pain or choosing the far more difficult path of forgiveness and letting go. On the other hand, Lavenia and Nor are forced to confront their own identities, detached from the expectations of others, as they begin questioning who they want to become for themselves.
And then there's Dewalt—witty, loyal, and deeply complex. His humor and heart have long endeared him to readers, but now he faces perhaps the most difficult task of all: allowing himself to be vulnerable again after experiencing loss so profound it once felt impossible to recover from.
Least but not last, this book finally addresses the mystery behind the gods, the religious institution that worships them, the Myriad, and its most important representative, the Supreme. This has been a part much awaited for me, perhaps more than any other. The stories and references to the gods not only provide clarity but also satisfy my love for myths and legends. I adore seeing these myths deconstructed and questioned, especially when they reflect the very human emotions, desires, and ambitions of those who created them.
I cannot wait to see how the story unfolds from here, though I am beyond grateful Jess has promised us a happy ending for our main couple—no matter the shape or form it takes. I am so ready for the journey ahead!
September 15, 2024
4.5 stars
I was blessed with an ARC of this book and lemme tell y'all, it was a freaking good one
Between Fear and Favor is the third installment in this lovely series. It answers many questions from previous books, gave us way more plot for some side characters, elevating them more into main ones. And yes, while this still bothered me a bit just as it did with book 2 (you can see my review on that), the story was good so I just went with it.
Emma and Rain continue to be my favorite part of this series and Jess did not disappoint with them this time. It was hard to read through the hardship of war and siege that they were facing but their love still shone pure and true, which I loved. The spice was amazing and just the right amount of it to not overstep over the plot (which tends to be a big book ick I have sometimes with this genre, but Jess intertwines intimacy and plot incredibly).
Lavinia also had an incredible adventure of her own but I cannot mention more because SPOILERS. But I loved all her story as well.
Elora and her part of the plot were kinda meh for me but that's a *me* issue since I've never liked her much, but there were many good things in her plotline well worth reading.
And Nor and Dewalt also have my heart. Them babies do.
This book had me crying in the middle and it was due to a devastating loss but oh god, the ending felt like a massacre of my emotional state. Miss Wisecup, how dare you???? The cliffhanger, the pain you caused, the last chapter 77 with its only one sentence broke me. So, here I come therapy.
Overall I enjoyed this book more than book 2, so I'm obviously definitely going strong with my appreciation and love for this series.
Thanks to the author for the ARC! Now, about book 4...
I was blessed with an ARC of this book and lemme tell y'all, it was a freaking good one
Between Fear and Favor is the third installment in this lovely series. It answers many questions from previous books, gave us way more plot for some side characters, elevating them more into main ones. And yes, while this still bothered me a bit just as it did with book 2 (you can see my review on that), the story was good so I just went with it.
Emma and Rain continue to be my favorite part of this series and Jess did not disappoint with them this time. It was hard to read through the hardship of war and siege that they were facing but their love still shone pure and true, which I loved. The spice was amazing and just the right amount of it to not overstep over the plot (which tends to be a big book ick I have sometimes with this genre, but Jess intertwines intimacy and plot incredibly).
Lavinia also had an incredible adventure of her own but I cannot mention more because SPOILERS. But I loved all her story as well.
Elora and her part of the plot were kinda meh for me but that's a *me* issue since I've never liked her much, but there were many good things in her plotline well worth reading.
And Nor and Dewalt also have my heart. Them babies do.
This book had me crying in the middle and it was due to a devastating loss but oh god, the ending felt like a massacre of my emotional state. Miss Wisecup, how dare you???? The cliffhanger, the pain you caused, the last chapter 77 with its only one sentence broke me. So, here I come therapy.
Overall I enjoyed this book more than book 2, so I'm obviously definitely going strong with my appreciation and love for this series.
Thanks to the author for the ARC! Now, about book 4...
September 17, 2024
Please excuse me as I bawl my eyes out through the writing of this review. As Jess has already told us, she will not be taking therapy bills we did this to ourselves. And it's true, I did this to myself by reading this beautiful heartbreaking book.
Between Fear and Favor is the 3rd installment in The Divine Between series and it has finally answered many of the questions that have been building to this point. Our found family is elevated further into their rolls as main characters as their journeys continue on their own, building slowly to what I imagine is going to be an epic conclusion in the next book. We get many POV's that helped divide the pacing evenly, dragging us through a war that has hit a pause and is proving to be so much bigger than a power crazed religious leader trying to manipulate his way to overlord.
Jess did not hold back in the devastation she rained down on us in this book, there were many hard losses and dealing with trigger warning level inner thoughts. But still, she interwove light moments, and spice that helped ease the heartache of the plot and not overwhelm. I enjoyed each couples journey, Nor and Dewalt learning to love and accept love, Cyran and Elora's growth, Emma and Rain trying to do better for their people against impossible odds and Lavinia, where any sort of acknowledgement of her time in this book would be serious spoilers.
If you get emotionally attached to characters, this book will absolutely destroy your heart, I am warning you now. Jess has completely stared me in the face, ripped my heart out and then shoved it in a blender in front of me without any regrets. Even though I know you won't read this Jess, HOW VERY DARE YOU WITH THIS CLIFFHANGER!! I no longer believe your promises of a HEA. This was a crime.
And I am absolutely feral to get book 4. Like I need it. I need it so bad.
Please pick up this series, please read it Jess is an amazing author and she deserves so much more recognition than she gets. Thank you Jess and your team for giving me a chance to ARC read this book. All thoughts are my honest opinions
Between Fear and Favor is the 3rd installment in The Divine Between series and it has finally answered many of the questions that have been building to this point. Our found family is elevated further into their rolls as main characters as their journeys continue on their own, building slowly to what I imagine is going to be an epic conclusion in the next book. We get many POV's that helped divide the pacing evenly, dragging us through a war that has hit a pause and is proving to be so much bigger than a power crazed religious leader trying to manipulate his way to overlord.
Jess did not hold back in the devastation she rained down on us in this book, there were many hard losses and dealing with trigger warning level inner thoughts. But still, she interwove light moments, and spice that helped ease the heartache of the plot and not overwhelm. I enjoyed each couples journey, Nor and Dewalt learning to love and accept love, Cyran and Elora's growth, Emma and Rain trying to do better for their people against impossible odds and Lavinia, where any sort of acknowledgement of her time in this book would be serious spoilers.
If you get emotionally attached to characters, this book will absolutely destroy your heart, I am warning you now. Jess has completely stared me in the face, ripped my heart out and then shoved it in a blender in front of me without any regrets. Even though I know you won't read this Jess, HOW VERY DARE YOU WITH THIS CLIFFHANGER!! I no longer believe your promises of a HEA. This was a crime.
And I am absolutely feral to get book 4. Like I need it. I need it so bad.
Please pick up this series, please read it Jess is an amazing author and she deserves so much more recognition than she gets. Thank you Jess and your team for giving me a chance to ARC read this book. All thoughts are my honest opinions
September 12, 2024
At long last! I'll post a more thorough review soon. Thank you again to Jess and Emily for allowing me on the arc team!
------------
I have had a little time to process, and I'll try to be concise.
Firstly, for those who are unaware, this book had some serious delays. Some of them were completely understandable and reasonable, but I think at that point Jess should have just avoided a release date until it was final. There was a lot of confusion on what was going on, but I believe Jess has said this was not going to be a regular thing.
So I kind of started this with a long awaited, when is this book actually coming out mood. But I received my arc and was excited to start!
This book is going to have people who love it - that person just wasn't me. I like what Jess did with the main Emma/Rain storyline. She always delivers with their banter, and their scenes are always ridiculously hot.
However, as I had the same issue with book 2, I didn't super enjoy the side character plotlines. I think it involved too many people and too much attempting to happen that it just didn't make for the flow I was hoping for.
Jess always delivers on crazy twists and finales, and this one was no different. The revelations we get are amazing, but I am unsure how the series will continue with what happens.
Overall, I'm still glad I checked this out! I'll probably still make time to read the finale, but until then I'll just keep living in the dream that was book 1 💜
------------
I have had a little time to process, and I'll try to be concise.
Firstly, for those who are unaware, this book had some serious delays. Some of them were completely understandable and reasonable, but I think at that point Jess should have just avoided a release date until it was final. There was a lot of confusion on what was going on, but I believe Jess has said this was not going to be a regular thing.
So I kind of started this with a long awaited, when is this book actually coming out mood. But I received my arc and was excited to start!
This book is going to have people who love it - that person just wasn't me. I like what Jess did with the main Emma/Rain storyline. She always delivers with their banter, and their scenes are always ridiculously hot.
However, as I had the same issue with book 2, I didn't super enjoy the side character plotlines. I think it involved too many people and too much attempting to happen that it just didn't make for the flow I was hoping for.
Jess always delivers on crazy twists and finales, and this one was no different. The revelations we get are amazing, but I am unsure how the series will continue with what happens.
Overall, I'm still glad I checked this out! I'll probably still make time to read the finale, but until then I'll just keep living in the dream that was book 1 💜
September 18, 2024
Jess Wisecup’s The Divine Between series, Between Wrath & Mercy was one of the first fantasy books I devoured upon my return to reading. The world that Wisecup has created is amazing and intricate. The fresh take on magical abilities and different lore are refreshing.
I have been waiting with great anticipation for the third installment after finishing Between Despair & Hope. Anxiously gnawing at the bit, when it hit my e-reader, I did not hesitate. I was torn between wanting to devour it and savoring.
The characters she has created are so relatable it makes my heart ache. I feel as if I know them and there is literally a personality for everyone. As a plus-size mother, I applaud Jess Wisecup for giving us a female role model that makes a large demographic feel seen. So many heroines are teen or early 20’s and Em is in the trenches of the 30s and 40s, married life, mom life with us!
Between Fear & Favor did NOT disappoint in any way except leaving me completely devestated and caught off guard. I literally stayed up until 12:30 a.m. to finish it and was left with a stunned, “Wtf?” followed by some tears. At 1:30 a.m. I had only just started coming to terms with what I’d read. I look forward to where else this world is going to take us and how the characters are going to pivot and regroup. I couldn’t recommend picking up the series more. It is easily in my top favorites of all time.
Bibliophilebookstackswithdi on IG
I have been waiting with great anticipation for the third installment after finishing Between Despair & Hope. Anxiously gnawing at the bit, when it hit my e-reader, I did not hesitate. I was torn between wanting to devour it and savoring.
The characters she has created are so relatable it makes my heart ache. I feel as if I know them and there is literally a personality for everyone. As a plus-size mother, I applaud Jess Wisecup for giving us a female role model that makes a large demographic feel seen. So many heroines are teen or early 20’s and Em is in the trenches of the 30s and 40s, married life, mom life with us!
Between Fear & Favor did NOT disappoint in any way except leaving me completely devestated and caught off guard. I literally stayed up until 12:30 a.m. to finish it and was left with a stunned, “Wtf?” followed by some tears. At 1:30 a.m. I had only just started coming to terms with what I’d read. I look forward to where else this world is going to take us and how the characters are going to pivot and regroup. I couldn’t recommend picking up the series more. It is easily in my top favorites of all time.
Bibliophilebookstackswithdi on IG
September 16, 2024
"Love is pain and joy and sorrow and laughter. Love is trust and fear, and it is everything."
This is Book 3 of The Divine Between series.
This book was beautifully written and expertly crafted. Every chapter, every interaction, every breadcrumb was so intentional and important.
There is a lot going on following 7 POV's, but that's what makes it an epic fantasy as well as an epic romance. We are blessed with the established but every growing relationship of Em and Rain, as well as the angst, tension and banter filled potential relationship of Nor and DeWalt, and the innocent potential friendship and relationship of Cy and Elora. And may I just say, keeping the teens YA and true to teens is amazing!! Thank you!
There is so much character growth in this book, and it is both achingly heartbreaking and heartwarming.
This book dives into fleshing out it's past history with the gods, the myriad, the forestborne and the seaborne. It answered many questions the previous book posed and left us with all new ones to tackle in book 4.
I was able to feel all the feels. I laughed, I giggled, I kicked my feet and swooned, and I threw my kindle and utterly sobbed. It wouldn't be a Jess Wisecup book without utter heartbreak and desolation.
While I sit in despair and anxiously await book 4, I plan on rereading this series multiple times, to figure out how I could have remained so blissfully ignorant to what should have been clearly, right in front of me.
"What line wouldn’t I cross to protect the people I cared about?"
This is Book 3 of The Divine Between series.
This book was beautifully written and expertly crafted. Every chapter, every interaction, every breadcrumb was so intentional and important.
There is a lot going on following 7 POV's, but that's what makes it an epic fantasy as well as an epic romance. We are blessed with the established but every growing relationship of Em and Rain, as well as the angst, tension and banter filled potential relationship of Nor and DeWalt, and the innocent potential friendship and relationship of Cy and Elora. And may I just say, keeping the teens YA and true to teens is amazing!! Thank you!
There is so much character growth in this book, and it is both achingly heartbreaking and heartwarming.
This book dives into fleshing out it's past history with the gods, the myriad, the forestborne and the seaborne. It answered many questions the previous book posed and left us with all new ones to tackle in book 4.
I was able to feel all the feels. I laughed, I giggled, I kicked my feet and swooned, and I threw my kindle and utterly sobbed. It wouldn't be a Jess Wisecup book without utter heartbreak and desolation.
While I sit in despair and anxiously await book 4, I plan on rereading this series multiple times, to figure out how I could have remained so blissfully ignorant to what should have been clearly, right in front of me.
"What line wouldn’t I cross to protect the people I cared about?"
November 19, 2024
The end??? Hello??????
May 10, 2025
2.5 this rating pains me to give
November 22, 2024
Jess Wisecup, must you leave me on the edge of my seat AGAIN 😱 these books do not get nearly enough hype considering it’s a romantasy series with allllllll of the things. I can’t wait to see where the fourth and final book will take us.
February 17, 2025
I cannot with this book. Too many POVs. Too many plot holes. Too many plot lines. The author couldn’t keep it straight. It was an unorganized mess. I was actually skipping chapters to read the POV that I wanted to read. I think I will count this book as a half because I did read all the POV until 70% before I started my chapter skipping
Read
October 22, 2023When is this going to come out?? I just finished book two and need this in my life immediately! I can’t even find a preorder date or possible date anywhere, and the fact that it’s not searchable in the kindle store gives me loads of anxiety! 😦 😭
September 21, 2024
5 - ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"I don't know who I am or what I'm doing, except when I'm around you. All logical sense fails me, and all I want is to make you laugh, to keep you safe."
Between Fear & Favor is the third instalment in the Adult Fantasy Romance series, The Divine Between. Following the events of book two, the stakes have never been higher. Emmeline and Rainier must fight to protect their kingdom from powers that seek to tear down the world. Their daughter Elora must unravel her newfound magic while processing the betrayal of her mother. Raine's sister navigates the waters below to forge alliances with a cruel queen who holds many secrets. Raine's closest friend, Dewalt, is forced to take his adversary to safety for fear of what powers will do if they have the heir to the Umbroth throne in their hands...but the connection between them threatens to tear down walls. With talks of magic, deals, and gods it becomes quite clear everyone must make sacrifices...but will it be enough?
This book...I was not expecting where it went but when it hit it hit HARD!
We are now neck deep in political intrigue and seeing the lengths to which these characters are willing to go to save their world and their people.
Emmeline grapples with the distance between her and her daughter as well as the cost of her standing firm against the enemy - she feels every loss of life and to see how desperate she is to make it right draws you in. Raine is dealing with the duty of fighting alongside his men while also fearing for his sister and close friends off on his commands. He struggles with the choices he had others make on his behalf.
Elora and Cyran have this adorable romance blossoming as they not only navigate her new powers and the world around them but also through grief and resentment. They were a balm against the heaviness of other storylines.
Levania plays almost like a spy as she tries to find her way through the powers of the sea court. She is willing to do whatever it takes and the cost is HIGH. I struggled at moments with her choices and I admired her willingness to stick to her convictions for the betterment of her loved ones.
Nor and Dewalt harken us a bit back to a fresh enemies to lovers romance as these two are forced to travel together. Their story felt comfortable for a fantasy world. Their dynamic has a bit of angst from their previous interactions but watching them get closer was a delight.
This novel does contain spice - I would say 2.5 spicy peppers out of 5 spicy peppers. There are a few spicy scenes spread wide across the novel as well as moments very close to spice. The story has a mix of established couples and blossoming ones and young ones. I felt the different romances really helped keep things fresh and highlight the depth of the world. The spice is detailed and explicit but does lean more towards romantic.
"You're my dream and my nightmare. You scare to fuck out of me...But I don't want to wake up.
I HIGHLY recommend doing a reread or getting a refresher before diving into this book because there is a lot you may forget in between reads. This story holds no punches and launches you right in the middle of a conflict. There is plenty of action, political machinations, and loss but there are these beautiful moments between the characters spread out as a calm before the storm. I was drawn into each story and could not put this down with each cliffhanger chapter launching us into a new POV next. The ending leads up to a powerful sequence that absolutely devastated me...I sobbed for a good 20 minutes after I finished this book. It is a cliffhanger and it is probably one of the most painful ones I have experienced in a long time. I am DESPERATE for book four.
Overall, this is an amazing book with rich fantasy, lore, and romance to draw you in.
Thank you so much Jess for an arc! I also read this on Kindle Unlimited.
"I don't know who I am or what I'm doing, except when I'm around you. All logical sense fails me, and all I want is to make you laugh, to keep you safe."
Between Fear & Favor is the third instalment in the Adult Fantasy Romance series, The Divine Between. Following the events of book two, the stakes have never been higher. Emmeline and Rainier must fight to protect their kingdom from powers that seek to tear down the world. Their daughter Elora must unravel her newfound magic while processing the betrayal of her mother. Raine's sister navigates the waters below to forge alliances with a cruel queen who holds many secrets. Raine's closest friend, Dewalt, is forced to take his adversary to safety for fear of what powers will do if they have the heir to the Umbroth throne in their hands...but the connection between them threatens to tear down walls. With talks of magic, deals, and gods it becomes quite clear everyone must make sacrifices...but will it be enough?
This book...I was not expecting where it went but when it hit it hit HARD!
We are now neck deep in political intrigue and seeing the lengths to which these characters are willing to go to save their world and their people.
Emmeline grapples with the distance between her and her daughter as well as the cost of her standing firm against the enemy - she feels every loss of life and to see how desperate she is to make it right draws you in. Raine is dealing with the duty of fighting alongside his men while also fearing for his sister and close friends off on his commands. He struggles with the choices he had others make on his behalf.
Elora and Cyran have this adorable romance blossoming as they not only navigate her new powers and the world around them but also through grief and resentment. They were a balm against the heaviness of other storylines.
Levania plays almost like a spy as she tries to find her way through the powers of the sea court. She is willing to do whatever it takes and the cost is HIGH. I struggled at moments with her choices and I admired her willingness to stick to her convictions for the betterment of her loved ones.
Nor and Dewalt harken us a bit back to a fresh enemies to lovers romance as these two are forced to travel together. Their story felt comfortable for a fantasy world. Their dynamic has a bit of angst from their previous interactions but watching them get closer was a delight.
This novel does contain spice - I would say 2.5 spicy peppers out of 5 spicy peppers. There are a few spicy scenes spread wide across the novel as well as moments very close to spice. The story has a mix of established couples and blossoming ones and young ones. I felt the different romances really helped keep things fresh and highlight the depth of the world. The spice is detailed and explicit but does lean more towards romantic.
"You're my dream and my nightmare. You scare to fuck out of me...But I don't want to wake up.
I HIGHLY recommend doing a reread or getting a refresher before diving into this book because there is a lot you may forget in between reads. This story holds no punches and launches you right in the middle of a conflict. There is plenty of action, political machinations, and loss but there are these beautiful moments between the characters spread out as a calm before the storm. I was drawn into each story and could not put this down with each cliffhanger chapter launching us into a new POV next. The ending leads up to a powerful sequence that absolutely devastated me...I sobbed for a good 20 minutes after I finished this book. It is a cliffhanger and it is probably one of the most painful ones I have experienced in a long time. I am DESPERATE for book four.
Overall, this is an amazing book with rich fantasy, lore, and romance to draw you in.
Thank you so much Jess for an arc! I also read this on Kindle Unlimited.
November 22, 2024
• romantic fantasy
• spice
• multi POV and multiple couples (ensemble cast)
• my sweet precious baby dragons 🥹
• diverse cast
• queernorm world
• prophecies, religious trauma, and angst
• lots of plot (you’re gonna have to pay attention a LOT happens)
• book 3 of 4
• I got an early copy (it’s out now but I didn’t get to it before release due to a reading slump)
Its hard to write this review because I want to give people up to date on the series what to look forward to but don’t want to spoil the earlier books for people who haven’t started yet so I’m going to keep it as high level as possible.
While in book 1 and 2 the romance felt balanced with the plot, in this book the plot has a much stronger presence. Full scale war is ongoing and while our couples are in the same location, the ensemble is split up as they all take on different tasks - Em and Rain are embroiled in the conflict directly, Ven and Mairin are trapped in the Sea kingdom and at odds, Nor and Dewalt are traveling to another city to protect it, and Elora is sequestered away with her love interest to train her powers (who I ADORE so much but is a big spoiler for book 1 and 2 due to certain events so shall remain unnamed).
Each and every character has a lot of growth and they’re all on their own journeys. While the romance isn’t as focused on here it’s still a meaningful presence - Nor and Dewalt in particular really grew their relationship. I love all the couples but they really shined for me this book, along with Elora and her love interest. The amount of spice in this book was very balanced and hot to read!
The story had some pointed themes on religious trauma, deconstructing purity culture within organized religions, and corruption within those organizations. All excellently done and not rushed so buckle up and be patient!
This book had a lot of amazing reveals and while the author has assured a happy ending it doesn’t pull its punches either! I can’t wait for the last book and to see how it all wraps up
• spice
• multi POV and multiple couples (ensemble cast)
• my sweet precious baby dragons 🥹
• diverse cast
• queernorm world
• prophecies, religious trauma, and angst
• lots of plot (you’re gonna have to pay attention a LOT happens)
• book 3 of 4
• I got an early copy (it’s out now but I didn’t get to it before release due to a reading slump)
Its hard to write this review because I want to give people up to date on the series what to look forward to but don’t want to spoil the earlier books for people who haven’t started yet so I’m going to keep it as high level as possible.
While in book 1 and 2 the romance felt balanced with the plot, in this book the plot has a much stronger presence. Full scale war is ongoing and while our couples are in the same location, the ensemble is split up as they all take on different tasks - Em and Rain are embroiled in the conflict directly, Ven and Mairin are trapped in the Sea kingdom and at odds, Nor and Dewalt are traveling to another city to protect it, and Elora is sequestered away with her love interest to train her powers (who I ADORE so much but is a big spoiler for book 1 and 2 due to certain events so shall remain unnamed).
Each and every character has a lot of growth and they’re all on their own journeys. While the romance isn’t as focused on here it’s still a meaningful presence - Nor and Dewalt in particular really grew their relationship. I love all the couples but they really shined for me this book, along with Elora and her love interest. The amount of spice in this book was very balanced and hot to read!
The story had some pointed themes on religious trauma, deconstructing purity culture within organized religions, and corruption within those organizations. All excellently done and not rushed so buckle up and be patient!
This book had a lot of amazing reveals and while the author has assured a happy ending it doesn’t pull its punches either! I can’t wait for the last book and to see how it all wraps up
October 23, 2024
I will say the first book is still hands down my favorite.
This one had very good parts. But I did find myself skimming some points of view. Which I’m still 50/50 on. I just found it was a lot to keep up. Also way too many side characters so I would have to go back and refresh my memory like who was that again.
Dewalt and Nor .. chefs kiss. Perfect.
Anything to do with Lavenia, not really interested. I felt like she was really whiny and i just wanted to slap her a la Edna Mode and tell her to get herself together. The last few chapters of hers were good though.
Elora:
Eloras struggles I kind of understood. She’s a kid. Her back and forth with Cy drove me bananas. I felt like she was way too bratty and entitled for how she was raised. Cy. I just felt bad for the kid. I will say maybe cause I don’t like her at all, I have no idea why he even likes her other than trauma bonding.
Now on to our main couple, Rain and Em. They kind of annoyed me in this one. While the tender moments were sweet, with their relationship I was just expecting more. It wasn’t till the end that we see them really work well together. And while I understand that’s part of the story, after everything that happened in book 2, I expected a well oiled team. At the very least after Em saved him that Rain would trust her way way more than he did.
The last chapters were very edge of my seat, stay up late to finish but man these cliff hangers are killing me! That last chapter…. Gut punch.
….also all these gods are a-holes.
I do feel like this book was very rushed at the end and there was too much at the start. Which I understand cause I know the author pushed back her original publish date a few times. I just feel like the pacing was a little wonky.
Totally going to read the next one!
This one had very good parts. But I did find myself skimming some points of view. Which I’m still 50/50 on. I just found it was a lot to keep up. Also way too many side characters so I would have to go back and refresh my memory like who was that again.
Dewalt and Nor .. chefs kiss. Perfect.
Anything to do with Lavenia, not really interested. I felt like she was really whiny and i just wanted to slap her a la Edna Mode and tell her to get herself together. The last few chapters of hers were good though.
Elora:
Eloras struggles I kind of understood. She’s a kid. Her back and forth with Cy drove me bananas. I felt like she was way too bratty and entitled for how she was raised. Cy. I just felt bad for the kid. I will say maybe cause I don’t like her at all, I have no idea why he even likes her other than trauma bonding.
Now on to our main couple, Rain and Em. They kind of annoyed me in this one. While the tender moments were sweet, with their relationship I was just expecting more. It wasn’t till the end that we see them really work well together. And while I understand that’s part of the story, after everything that happened in book 2, I expected a well oiled team. At the very least after Em saved him that Rain would trust her way way more than he did.
The last chapters were very edge of my seat, stay up late to finish but man these cliff hangers are killing me! That last chapter…. Gut punch.
….also all these gods are a-holes.
I do feel like this book was very rushed at the end and there was too much at the start. Which I understand cause I know the author pushed back her original publish date a few times. I just feel like the pacing was a little wonky.
Totally going to read the next one!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 1, 2025
This is a hard one to rate. I really loved this series from the beginning. This 3rd book was good, and I had fun… But I have complaints.
The POVs were a bit much. The transitions between the POVs were not always great or I felt a little whiplash to doing something new with a character wondering how we got there. I can handle lots of POVs, but there was a lot going on and the transitions weren’t always smooth.
The side characters took on such a big role. All of the characters were off doing different things and not interacting with each other. I felt like Em and Rain were the least interesting to the point that their random sex scenes felt out of place. Dewalt and Nor had the most cohesive progression as a couple in this book, and they were still annoying being into each other and resisting it the entire time. Elora was a whiny teenager.
The ending was abrupt and unexpected in an unsatisfying way for being such a long book. I guess there is going to be another book in the series? There were a lot of loose ends for it to be the final book, and that’s was not a good ending if it was the final book. I did have fun and will continue reading the series if there are more, but my enjoyment has been going down with each book.
The POVs were a bit much. The transitions between the POVs were not always great or I felt a little whiplash to doing something new with a character wondering how we got there. I can handle lots of POVs, but there was a lot going on and the transitions weren’t always smooth.
The side characters took on such a big role. All of the characters were off doing different things and not interacting with each other. I felt like Em and Rain were the least interesting to the point that their random sex scenes felt out of place. Dewalt and Nor had the most cohesive progression as a couple in this book, and they were still annoying being into each other and resisting it the entire time. Elora was a whiny teenager.
The ending was abrupt and unexpected in an unsatisfying way for being such a long book. I guess there is going to be another book in the series? There were a lot of loose ends for it to be the final book, and that’s was not a good ending if it was the final book. I did have fun and will continue reading the series if there are more, but my enjoyment has been going down with each book.
June 30, 2025
My rating system:
5 stars - Absolutely loved it! I would definitely read again anytime!
4 stars - Really liked it! Will most likely read again sometime.
3 stars - Liked it. Glad I read it but probably won't read again.
2 stars - Didn't like it. Glad I'm done with the book and I'll never read it again.
1 star - Very rare rating. Absolutely hated the book. Will never read again and I'll probably burn any copies I come across.
The 1st book I gave 5 starts, the 2nd book I gave 4 stars, this book I'm giving 3 stars.
Most of Lavenia's chapters needed to be abridged or removed. So much detail in her storyline that I didn't find relevant and it just wasted my reading time.
A lot of time spent on Dewalt and Nor as well that I didn't find necessary.
I just didn't think this book needed to be 700 pages.
I was so confused at the end with the low gravity and the black fire? Not even sure what I read I was not understanding what was happening.
And then the sudden revelation of who is the accursed at the end? Like, what? I don't know how I feel about that.
Of course there is a dramatic ending and I would like to read the next book when it comes out.
If I decide to read this book again in the future hopefully I'll understand or comprehend more.
5 stars - Absolutely loved it! I would definitely read again anytime!
4 stars - Really liked it! Will most likely read again sometime.
3 stars - Liked it. Glad I read it but probably won't read again.
2 stars - Didn't like it. Glad I'm done with the book and I'll never read it again.
1 star - Very rare rating. Absolutely hated the book. Will never read again and I'll probably burn any copies I come across.
The 1st book I gave 5 starts, the 2nd book I gave 4 stars, this book I'm giving 3 stars.
Most of Lavenia's chapters needed to be abridged or removed. So much detail in her storyline that I didn't find relevant and it just wasted my reading time.
A lot of time spent on Dewalt and Nor as well that I didn't find necessary.
I just didn't think this book needed to be 700 pages.
I was so confused at the end with the low gravity and the black fire? Not even sure what I read I was not understanding what was happening.
And then the sudden revelation of who is the accursed at the end? Like, what? I don't know how I feel about that.
Of course there is a dramatic ending and I would like to read the next book when it comes out.
If I decide to read this book again in the future hopefully I'll understand or comprehend more.
December 9, 2024
I love this series, and the rating might be more like 4.5 stars…but I have to acknowledge that I did have some struggles with this book as a reader.
As others have mentioned, the four story lines build suspense within their individual structure, but then you lose it before cycling back as you wade through the other story lines. I wonder if the characters were communicating by letter or through a courier, if this would have helped with continuity. I also struggled because having four story lines felt like an opportunity for something to be going right in one while something was going wrong in another. However, they all seemed to follow the same basic trajectory of when things were bad, they were bad for everyone. When they had hope, they all had hope. It would have generated more interest to add some variation.
That said, Jess has me 100% invested in these characters. The nuance and complexity of their situations is relatable, and I loved her development of them throughout. They are not stagnant, striving towards growth. I cannot wait for the 4th book to see what becomes of them (even as I find the particular cliffhanger we were left on unbearable).
As others have mentioned, the four story lines build suspense within their individual structure, but then you lose it before cycling back as you wade through the other story lines. I wonder if the characters were communicating by letter or through a courier, if this would have helped with continuity. I also struggled because having four story lines felt like an opportunity for something to be going right in one while something was going wrong in another. However, they all seemed to follow the same basic trajectory of when things were bad, they were bad for everyone. When they had hope, they all had hope. It would have generated more interest to add some variation.
That said, Jess has me 100% invested in these characters. The nuance and complexity of their situations is relatable, and I loved her development of them throughout. They are not stagnant, striving towards growth. I cannot wait for the 4th book to see what becomes of them (even as I find the particular cliffhanger we were left on unbearable).
September 20, 2024
As usual, Jess Wisecup is a master of making you cry. She captures absolutely devastating emotions and translates them to page perfectly, so that the trauma happening to her characters can be felt viscerally.
For Between Fear and Favor, I highly recommend reading the CWs on her website if you are in an emotionally vulnerable state prior to starting. If not, I recommend going in blind. The CWs are more spoiler-full than usual, per Jess herself. I agree.
BFAF really connects the threads that have been present since BWAM and introduces new environments and mythology that just adds to the rich texture of the world. We also get to see two idiots falling in love, which is just a delight. This book had a lot more pairing off, so we get to see Cyran and Elora, as well as Nor and Dewalt adapt to their feelings for each other. Jess often leaves you on a cliffhanger between character POVs, but there’s so much going on with each character, I was excited to get back to whoever was up to narrate next.
I am beyond excited for the finale, whenever it is released.
For Between Fear and Favor, I highly recommend reading the CWs on her website if you are in an emotionally vulnerable state prior to starting. If not, I recommend going in blind. The CWs are more spoiler-full than usual, per Jess herself. I agree.
BFAF really connects the threads that have been present since BWAM and introduces new environments and mythology that just adds to the rich texture of the world. We also get to see two idiots falling in love, which is just a delight. This book had a lot more pairing off, so we get to see Cyran and Elora, as well as Nor and Dewalt adapt to their feelings for each other. Jess often leaves you on a cliffhanger between character POVs, but there’s so much going on with each character, I was excited to get back to whoever was up to narrate next.
I am beyond excited for the finale, whenever it is released.
November 29, 2024
So... Is the series over? I really wanted it to be a trilogy and not longer, but I didn't see this coming. There's more, right? Right???
[Edit]
I had to edit my original comment because I wrote it within minutes of having ended the book, and there is more I want to say.
There were 4 storylines in the book, which, for the most part, never intersected. It didn't impact my reading, and it's not that I disliked any one of them, but I'd like it if there was more interaction between the characters. As it was, there were 2 main characters in each storyline and they pretty much talked only with each other. In almost every pair, there was one character throwing a one-person guilt/pity party in their head, which was kinda tiring to read.
Throughout the book, there were some nice twists and reveals, but that ending was AWFUL! Nearing the end, I was thinking about giving the book 3,5 stars, but after that ending, 3 stars are more than enough!
I'm 75% confident that there will be more books (too many loose ends), but I hope we don't end up with a 6-book series...
[Edit]
I had to edit my original comment because I wrote it within minutes of having ended the book, and there is more I want to say.
There were 4 storylines in the book, which, for the most part, never intersected. It didn't impact my reading, and it's not that I disliked any one of them, but I'd like it if there was more interaction between the characters. As it was, there were 2 main characters in each storyline and they pretty much talked only with each other. In almost every pair, there was one character throwing a one-person guilt/pity party in their head, which was kinda tiring to read.
Throughout the book, there were some nice twists and reveals, but that ending was AWFUL! Nearing the end, I was thinking about giving the book 3,5 stars, but after that ending, 3 stars are more than enough!
I'm 75% confident that there will be more books (too many loose ends), but I hope we don't end up with a 6-book series...
September 15, 2024
I don’t even know how to put my thoughts into writing. This book was really REALLY good, and I’m honestly a little devastated right now. The twists and turns of this series, and the subtle hints and nuances hidden throughout are mind blowing. The writing is so layered that I almost want to go back and make a notebook to keep track of everything. Annotating isn’t enough. BFAF brought in so much growth for each of the characters, and I honestly don’t know how Jess fit it all into one book. I loved all the different POVs we got to follow this time. It was fun to see the same scenarios from the different views of 2 characters. We also had very separate storylines happening through all those POVs so it was almost like having 4 books in one. And the way they all collided at the ended? Masterful! Even if it broke my heart a little. I desperately need the next book….and possibly a strong drink 🥲
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