** Thank you so much to the author for the ARC **
Aphrodite and Konstantin’s story continues in “Rivals” where destiny once again seems to be wanting to tear them apart. Aphrodite, now a member of Noir, has found herself with a new purpose in her life. Long gone are her days living for Paradiso, now she has missions to complete. Her relationship with Konstantin has been estranged and she is focused on the new path her life has taken her. However, it seems that while destiny keeps separating her from Konstantin, he does not accept that. He has been watching her and when the time has come for Aphrodite to search for something in another man’s arms, Konstantin reminds her of whom she belongs to.
In “Muse,” we saw a different Aphrodite, she was cunning, observant but also a little naïve for Konstantin’s love. In “Rivals,” she knows where that love will lead. Aphrodite, in her rationality, knows she belongs with Konstantin, and he knows he’ll never find her equal. She matches his spirit, his cunning spirit, and she knows how to bring him to his knees. Konstantin has never been hotter! He remains protective of Aphrodite, and he tries to win everything by playing his game. He wants to reclaim Aphrodite and right his father’s wrongs. Konstantin is in battle with himself to fight for a different society, one that is not controlled by those who caused the epidemic, but also he is aware that Aphrodite’s new job is not going to help him.
I love Aphrodite in her new role, everyone keeps doubting her, but she still has that sparkle that made her amazing in Paradiso. She wants to fight and do good and Konstantin hiding things from her and wanting to protect her frustrates her, which I understand. I was glad she put her foot down several times and tried to prove herself. With no resources and limited funds, she could find a lot of information. But there’s no denying that Konstantin is a swoon-worthy character! He is just manly, hot, so much of an ahole sometimes, but when he begged. Dear Lord, I can only think of a waterfall gif! I love when a man shows vulnerability and Konstantin mask fell a little in this book. You know a woman is powerful when she gets a billionaire to beg her things.
And that ending! Kate Pirate is going to break my heart one day! I’m really looking forward to “Outlaws” to see how Aphrodite and Konstant will patch things up and how she will have even more experience to take down the regime.
“Rivals” may be the second book of a series, but it is still a breath of fresh air with new elements that shed light on Aphrodite and Konstantin's story. “Muse” focused on their relationship but in “Rivals” although apart, they are just meant to be together, and the universe can tear them apart. I love that Konstantin will keep fighting for them!