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Aspect and Anchor #2
Sworn to the Shadow God
22 hours and 15 minutes
Adventure.
It's what my boring life is missing, so when I fall through a portal into another world, I'm excited. Here, I'm important. Here, I'm special.
I find out just *how* special when I meet Death.
Yup. That guy. He's been exiled to the mortal realm to work through his flaws, and he's just as spoiled and awful as you'd think. Rhagos, the Shadow Lord, is arrogant and rude and controlling and demands to get his way. He's selfish. He's impossible.
He's also utterly gorgeous. Magnetic. Lonely. And strangely protective of me.
Thanks to a magic bond, I now serve him as his anchor to the mortal realm. It means that I'm his conscience, his guide...and the target for any assassin or glory-seeker. After a few days of this, I'd rather go home than continue on this 'adventure'. I need a way back to Earth, and fast.
As the world falls down around us and we're hunted simply for existing, I find myself wondering what it'd be like to serve the lonely god of death...in all ways. To kiss him. To touch him. To bed him.
Except...I'm supposed to be finding a way home, not trying to kiss Rhagos. No matter how tempting he is. No matter how much he stares at my lips.
No matter how much I want it.
Adventure.
It's what my boring life is missing, so when I fall through a portal into another world, I'm excited. Here, I'm important. Here, I'm special.
I find out just *how* special when I meet Death.
Yup. That guy. He's been exiled to the mortal realm to work through his flaws, and he's just as spoiled and awful as you'd think. Rhagos, the Shadow Lord, is arrogant and rude and controlling and demands to get his way. He's selfish. He's impossible.
He's also utterly gorgeous. Magnetic. Lonely. And strangely protective of me.
Thanks to a magic bond, I now serve him as his anchor to the mortal realm. It means that I'm his conscience, his guide...and the target for any assassin or glory-seeker. After a few days of this, I'd rather go home than continue on this 'adventure'. I need a way back to Earth, and fast.
As the world falls down around us and we're hunted simply for existing, I find myself wondering what it'd be like to serve the lonely god of death...in all ways. To kiss him. To touch him. To bed him.
Except...I'm supposed to be finding a way home, not trying to kiss Rhagos. No matter how tempting he is. No matter how much he stares at my lips.
No matter how much I want it.
23 pages, Audible Audio
First published February 14, 2020
1338 people are currently reading
4732 people want to read
About the author
Ruby Dixon
161 books19.7k followersRuby Dixon is an author of Science Fiction Romance. She likes fated mates, baby-filled epilogues, and cinnamon roll heroes. She also likes to write biographies of herself in the third person, because it feels more important that way.
Ruby also loves coffee and dirty books and will probably be a cat lady at some point. :)
Ruby also loves coffee and dirty books and will probably be a cat lady at some point. :)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,098 reviews
February 16, 2020
I spent the last 24 hours with the stupidest person who ever lived in book-land. I mean, guys, I have met many stupid characters through the years, but no one touches the idiot heroine in this book.
If you read the first book, this will all make sense to you. If you didn't, you might as well leave now.
We'll wait....
Oh, but before you go, just know this: don't bother reading the first book now because this one sucked so much that it should literally take points from the first one.
Ok. Leave now.
So, you remember the most annoying part of the first book? The part you hated the most? That's this whole book.
Plus, it's a going-back-in-time book so Ragos can do the Anticipation all over again with an anchor of his choosing.
Our heroine, Max, is the anchor to Ragos - god of death. Every single thought that Max has is wrong. Know that. Her instincts are terrible, and she constantly jumps to the wrong conclusion. She has the emotional maturity of a 12 year old girl. It's ridiculous. I spent all of the first half of the book yelling at her because she couldn't figure out the most obvious thing going on that I knew within 3 sentences out of Ragos' mouth.
Imagine reading a description of this scene for 300 pages. That is what happens here.
"But, oh Jilly, she couldn't possibly know why she was so wrong! She didn't have the knowledge of the first book like you did."
As soon as she gets to the world she meets an oracle who tells her what to do and she can't follow simple directions. Then, her first three days with Ragos was her consulting with all of the wise men of the world who filled he in on how it all worked. There was no reason for her not to figure things out.
Except that she's an idiot.
When you put that together with the aspect of Ragos? I think this might have been the most annoying combination of characters ever to exist.
Yikes! Oh yeah, that happened.
Still.... I stand by what I said.
If you read the first book, this will all make sense to you. If you didn't, you might as well leave now.
We'll wait....
Oh, but before you go, just know this: don't bother reading the first book now because this one sucked so much that it should literally take points from the first one.
Ok. Leave now.
So, you remember the most annoying part of the first book? The part you hated the most? That's this whole book.
Plus, it's a going-back-in-time book so Ragos can do the Anticipation all over again with an anchor of his choosing.
Our heroine, Max, is the anchor to Ragos - god of death. Every single thought that Max has is wrong. Know that. Her instincts are terrible, and she constantly jumps to the wrong conclusion. She has the emotional maturity of a 12 year old girl. It's ridiculous. I spent all of the first half of the book yelling at her because she couldn't figure out the most obvious thing going on that I knew within 3 sentences out of Ragos' mouth.
Imagine reading a description of this scene for 300 pages. That is what happens here.
"But, oh Jilly, she couldn't possibly know why she was so wrong! She didn't have the knowledge of the first book like you did."
As soon as she gets to the world she meets an oracle who tells her what to do and she can't follow simple directions. Then, her first three days with Ragos was her consulting with all of the wise men of the world who filled he in on how it all worked. There was no reason for her not to figure things out.
Except that she's an idiot.
When you put that together with the aspect of Ragos? I think this might have been the most annoying combination of characters ever to exist.
Yikes! Oh yeah, that happened.
Still.... I stand by what I said.
February 20, 2020
Waw, finally finished it. I binged this book and it took me the whole day, I haven’t been this excited for a new release in a long time.
This one was quite different than the first. I say this because I was worried we were gonna journey through another traditional Anticipation journey but that’s because of my lack of imagination as I couldn’t think of ways in which this could deviate from that plot line. I’m so glad this was nothing I could have predicted or imagined, in the best way possible of course.
Not only was the plot pretty great but the characters were uniquely developed as well.
Max was quite different from Faith, less inquisitive, more naive, less experienced, more trusting, less independent, more kindhearted. If we were to draw parallels yes there were certain things I liked more about Faith and certain things I appreciated more in Max but that just goes to show that Ruby does such a great job at creating believable characters that are relatable at the same time.
As for Rhagos, that was a tough nut to crack because the whole time I was trying to asses his intentions. After the Prologue, I was left with so many questions that were not really answered until about the 90% mark in the story. But then again, that’s not a bad thing, it made for an interesting read, kept me guessing and assuming.
One thing that surprised me was his willingness to really admit his emotions and just bare them for everyone, we often have these heroes who are too proud or damaged or jaded to admit they are in over their heads for someone and act as if it’s beneath them until the very end. It was a pleasant surprise to see Rhagos deviate from that pattern, even more so because he is the God of Death and Shadows - not exactly a great environment to nurture new emotional depths.
In comparison to Aron he was once again differently portrayed yet you can sense a certain commonality, probably the badass vibes and the feelings they get from the disappointments that come with a long life of being served and feared. I imagine it gets tedious and they basically become hardened cynics.
Anyway, I loved him. I loved Max and I love the recurrent theme of redemption by going through certain trials or by experiencing the world through someone else’s perspective.
I cannot wait for Kassam’s book. (He’s on Earth apparently- I wonder if the story will take place on that realm?!)
I was lucky enough to read Bound to the Battle God just 2 weeks ago and so I didn’t wait long for this one, I hope Ruby releases the 3rd book soon-ish.
This one was quite different than the first. I say this because I was worried we were gonna journey through another traditional Anticipation journey but that’s because of my lack of imagination as I couldn’t think of ways in which this could deviate from that plot line. I’m so glad this was nothing I could have predicted or imagined, in the best way possible of course.
Not only was the plot pretty great but the characters were uniquely developed as well.
Max was quite different from Faith, less inquisitive, more naive, less experienced, more trusting, less independent, more kindhearted. If we were to draw parallels yes there were certain things I liked more about Faith and certain things I appreciated more in Max but that just goes to show that Ruby does such a great job at creating believable characters that are relatable at the same time.
As for Rhagos, that was a tough nut to crack because the whole time I was trying to asses his intentions. After the Prologue, I was left with so many questions that were not really answered until about the 90% mark in the story. But then again, that’s not a bad thing, it made for an interesting read, kept me guessing and assuming.
One thing that surprised me was his willingness to really admit his emotions and just bare them for everyone, we often have these heroes who are too proud or damaged or jaded to admit they are in over their heads for someone and act as if it’s beneath them until the very end. It was a pleasant surprise to see Rhagos deviate from that pattern, even more so because he is the God of Death and Shadows - not exactly a great environment to nurture new emotional depths.
In comparison to Aron he was once again differently portrayed yet you can sense a certain commonality, probably the badass vibes and the feelings they get from the disappointments that come with a long life of being served and feared. I imagine it gets tedious and they basically become hardened cynics.
Anyway, I loved him. I loved Max and I love the recurrent theme of redemption by going through certain trials or by experiencing the world through someone else’s perspective.
I cannot wait for Kassam’s book. (He’s on Earth apparently- I wonder if the story will take place on that realm?!)
I was lucky enough to read Bound to the Battle God just 2 weeks ago and so I didn’t wait long for this one, I hope Ruby releases the 3rd book soon-ish.
May 30, 2023
4 stars
Review now posted. 26/4/20
Contains small early spoilers.
The first book, Bound To The Battle God, really satisfied that craving for a good, immersive fantasy book. I truly love the world RD has created. The mythos, the Gods, the lands/map, the powers, the punishment, the whole plot just really works for me. And I was really looking forward getting stuck in it again with this one.
Though I loved everything about the book, the heroine disappointed me a bit.. The beginning started off great. She's a gamer, wears glasses and is a bit of a stressed-out, clutzy employee. All things I could identify with. Especially, the making coffee for the boss. Eons ago when I was a PA for a CEO, I used to use it as an excuse to take a break from him. I took my time and did it as slow as I could possibly do it and really tried hard to a)not spill it and b)have the right amount of foam (kaimaki) on top. And yes, I got told off if it wasn't just right and no I'm not kidding. So, almost immediately I felt for Max. Her excitement about getting together with her guild on the end of a crappy day really resonated too. Things started going down hill a bit after Max meets Rhagos, the Shadow God, aka Mr Death aka Grimreaper aka alternate version of Hades. But we'll circle back to the Death hunk later.
Max was much luckier than Faith (the h of the previous book). The minute she travels to the alternate universe she's is found by a spinner (a sort of crone witch/oracle) and given basic explanations and instructions. Something poor Faith didn't get until we were almost half way into the book. The author makes several points that she's too trusting and naive but I felt in several instances in the book that the problem wasn't so much her being too trusting but her being a bit slow on the uptake. She becomes so focused on questing and being Chosen that she doesn't question the things she should or realise things that are right in her face. Though, I loved her loyalty and her eventual relationship with Rhagos.
At first Rhagos is the epitome of a God in the Aos realm. Arrogant, selfish, demanding, a general ass. Little wonder that the High Father keeps punishing them. As the story progresses you see the changes in him. I don't want to say too much as I think you should go in blind where he is concerned. A lot of his story can be construed as spoilers.. I feel that I can say that he is plagued with that enmity that follows all versions of Death in all lore. Everyone hates Death. And Death is always alone.
I read this massive book in a day and while Max might not have been the perfect heroine, for me, I still truly enjoyed being back in this world and I cannot wait to see what Ruby Dixon has in store for us next.
15/2/20
Review now posted. 26/4/20
Contains small early spoilers.
The first book, Bound To The Battle God, really satisfied that craving for a good, immersive fantasy book. I truly love the world RD has created. The mythos, the Gods, the lands/map, the powers, the punishment, the whole plot just really works for me. And I was really looking forward getting stuck in it again with this one.
Though I loved everything about the book, the heroine disappointed me a bit.. The beginning started off great. She's a gamer, wears glasses and is a bit of a stressed-out, clutzy employee. All things I could identify with. Especially, the making coffee for the boss. Eons ago when I was a PA for a CEO, I used to use it as an excuse to take a break from him. I took my time and did it as slow as I could possibly do it and really tried hard to a)not spill it and b)have the right amount of foam (kaimaki) on top. And yes, I got told off if it wasn't just right and no I'm not kidding. So, almost immediately I felt for Max. Her excitement about getting together with her guild on the end of a crappy day really resonated too. Things started going down hill a bit after Max meets Rhagos, the Shadow God, aka Mr Death aka Grimreaper aka alternate version of Hades. But we'll circle back to the Death hunk later.
Max was much luckier than Faith (the h of the previous book). The minute she travels to the alternate universe she's is found by a spinner (a sort of crone witch/oracle) and given basic explanations and instructions. Something poor Faith didn't get until we were almost half way into the book. The author makes several points that she's too trusting and naive but I felt in several instances in the book that the problem wasn't so much her being too trusting but her being a bit slow on the uptake. She becomes so focused on questing and being Chosen that she doesn't question the things she should or realise things that are right in her face. Though, I loved her loyalty and her eventual relationship with Rhagos.
At first Rhagos is the epitome of a God in the Aos realm. Arrogant, selfish, demanding, a general ass. Little wonder that the High Father keeps punishing them. As the story progresses you see the changes in him. I don't want to say too much as I think you should go in blind where he is concerned. A lot of his story can be construed as spoilers.. I feel that I can say that he is plagued with that enmity that follows all versions of Death in all lore. Everyone hates Death. And Death is always alone.
I read this massive book in a day and while Max might not have been the perfect heroine, for me, I still truly enjoyed being back in this world and I cannot wait to see what Ruby Dixon has in store for us next.
15/2/20
February 5, 2025
Okay, I donno what's happening with all the negativity (and a lot of misogyny, really) toward the heroine. I get it, someone found her annoying and stuff... But I also get that Max might have been neurodivergent and with that realisation, all of her messy and chaotic energy made sense.
Max was a little bit naive, a little bit too trusting, a little bit too kind. She grew into a strong and quite a badass woman at the end of her quest and I loved it.
Rhagos was a bit complicated and everything in the first maybe 20% was kinda all over the place; but because of the prologue and also because of the way he treated Faith in the first book, I trusted his character development and it did not disappoint.
I loved how their relationship progressed, how they slowly came together. And their adventures on the way were really lots of fun (even if some of them were quite disgusting).
All in all, the little details here and there, their chemistry and devotion made me so damn happy, I loved the story and feel like I will reread it again at some point.
Max was a little bit naive, a little bit too trusting, a little bit too kind. She grew into a strong and quite a badass woman at the end of her quest and I loved it.
Rhagos was a bit complicated and everything in the first maybe 20% was kinda all over the place; but because of the prologue and also because of the way he treated Faith in the first book, I trusted his character development and it did not disappoint.
I loved how their relationship progressed, how they slowly came together. And their adventures on the way were really lots of fun (even if some of them were quite disgusting).
All in all, the little details here and there, their chemistry and devotion made me so damn happy, I loved the story and feel like I will reread it again at some point.
February 25, 2020
I loved every thing about this book. I didn't want to punch max in the face. I don't wish I could take back the time it took to read this book. Best book ever!
See what I did there?
That shit was too much and my head hurt (I'm back to saying the truth)
Max was so bossy and childish and she is so dumb for not knowing what aspect Rhagos was. I guessed it right away.
Can't stand it when the h tries to change her man. I don't know what he saw in her, she had no personality. And she is basically running the show, cause he has to get better and be a nicer sweet lord of death.....give me a break!!! She emasculated Rhagos and probably has his balls in her purse.
See what I did there?
That shit was too much and my head hurt (I'm back to saying the truth)
Max was so bossy and childish and she is so dumb for not knowing what aspect Rhagos was. I guessed it right away.
Can't stand it when the h tries to change her man. I don't know what he saw in her, she had no personality. And she is basically running the show, cause he has to get better and be a nicer sweet lord of death.....give me a break!!! She emasculated Rhagos and probably has his balls in her purse.
February 17, 2020
I have come to an overwhelming decision in my life....
The reason that Ruby Dixon is able to write such enthralling, steamy, "eat some leftovers cause I'm staying in tonight" books about Gods.....
Is because.....She is in fact....
REAL TALK
I just happened to be browsing on my kindle when suddenly BOOM, this bad boy immediately pops on my screen.
Like Hi, Hello, How are ya? Were you doing anything today?
PSYCH NOW YOUR NOT BISH.
AND ON VALENTINES DAY NO LESS!
For those who haven't read the first book in the Aspect and Anchor series,
Go.
Embrace.
Enjoy.
Make sure you don't have any important events coming up CAUSE HONEY.
These books become your daily events.
I have been Dieing LOL for Rhagos' book for what feels like a gah damn eternity now.
and suddenly...
I have it.
And its just as GAH DAMN fantastic as I was hoping it would be.
Max: She's the average joe gal: glasses, awkward, hates her boss, works a job where the Dick Penis DingDong rules the roost. You get it.
(side Bonus: She doesn't have immaculate breastesses. IBTC for the win! Rep us girl!)
Anyways, how does Max end up in the next anticipation?
Well, fate.....for minimal spoilers sake. Fate.
She's awkward, horrifyingly optimistic, and faces so many difficult decisions, and yet always stays true to her. She chooses others happiness and health over her own (even when she damn well shouldn't), which in some stories can be a real drag.
"Oh she chose them, she's so selfless, ohhh look at her in all her selflessness..." BLEH.
But, Max is selfless without the worship. She gives and cares for others because she genuinely cares about them. I seriously liked her.
This is now two solid female characters that feel like what any of us (women who dream of being transported into a chaotic dreamworld to partner with the love of our lives) would probably face, and give realistic reactions and responses (AKA. Non-Insta-Katniss-Everdeen). BonusBonus: she's funny. Not like a HAHAHAHAHA funny, but more like a 'unattractive snort to yourself' kind of funny.
Quotes:
"Their faces are dirty, their clothing rough, and one of the men leering at me has like, three teeth. If someone picks up a banjo and starts playing the Deliverence theme, I'm out of here."
"I am the Goddess of Knowledge. You think there is anything i don't know?"
"Do you know what this means?" I snap, flipping her the bird.
Seriously. Max was a delight.
Rhagos: BISH. biiiiiiiiishhhh. Rhagos is so friggin' book boyfriend material that, as we speak, I am immediately making changes to said list now. As the God of Death he has lived a lonely existence, and longs for the bond connection he has seen another God ( book one in the series coughcough go read it coughcough ) have with his anchor.
BONUS: he's the God of Death which totally reminds me of Hades (who is myth boytoy #1) so this automatically means I love him. I don't make the rules here, it's just logic.
He's tricky, powerful, but above all else, he just wants someone to talk to. To care for him. Someone who doesn't fear him and wants to be by his side for all eternity.
Through fate COUGHEMMGHHFLLEE Max and Rhages are paired for the next anticipation, and go through trials unlike we saw in the first book.
And....
well...
Im floundering...because at this point it is nearly impossible to tell you much more about the book without giving away spoilers, key plot points, or any GD SPOILERS.
This world is so fantastically magical, and in a way we haven't seen done a million times over. The Gods are cruel, the world is unforgiving of the weak, and to watch the main pair struggle through this is truly something to delight/throw your money at.
And did I mention, THERES A MAP AT THE BEGINNING OF THE DAMN BOOK?
Cause I'll say it once, I'll say it twice, I love me a damn book map.
(particularly when I'm confused exactly where we are, and also for times when I just want to explore the overall landscape we've been transported to.)
And when I say we get transported to the world, I mean it.
Now, Ruby Dixon is not just a God simply because of the imaginative, beautiful and entertaining story that she has created here.
Sit down students, class is in session
Sworn to the Shadow God is 645 pages.
Bound to the Battle God was 666 pages.
They were written, published and delivered to our greedy paws 9 months apart.
We all know what it's like to have to sit and wait what feels like eons for a new book in a series we love, and must find other ways to pass the time, BUT WAIT THERES MORE.
But between those 9 months of lonely waiting for our God of Death, Ruby Dixon published 8 other books (yes some of which are novellas but a BOOK is a GD book homie).
8
other
books.
That's essentially a book a month while we're waiting.
This gal y'all. Not only can she write such an incredibly fantastic tale of adventure, love, loss and dedication, BUT she can also put out 8 other dang good books to bide some dang time and keep our greedy little hearts happy.
I know authors always have things waiting on the back burner, and have multiple things going at once, but honestly you'd never know it reading this book. You'd swear she went on sabbatical for a month to focus all her time on this beautiful puppy.
![](https://media.giphy.com/media/TvFCUSiRUfeIU/giphy.gif"<br%20/>Which%20I%20<u>%20more%20</u>%20than%20believe%20puts%20Ruby%20Dixon%20on%20the%20true%20throne%20of%20author%20Godhood.<br%20/><br%20/>She%20is%20truly%20the%20Goddess%20of%20sci-fi,%20adventure,%20steamy%20reads.<br%20/><br%20/>And%20Good%20Giddy%20Aunt%20I%20will%20recommend%20this%20book%20to%20anyone%20who%20wants%20to%20get%20lost%20in%20a%20world%20that%20you)
5 give-me-Death-give-me-war-Gods-Damn-It-Give-Me-MORE! stars
The reason that Ruby Dixon is able to write such enthralling, steamy, "eat some leftovers cause I'm staying in tonight" books about Gods.....
Is because.....She is in fact....
REAL TALK
I just happened to be browsing on my kindle when suddenly BOOM, this bad boy immediately pops on my screen.
Like Hi, Hello, How are ya? Were you doing anything today?
PSYCH NOW YOUR NOT BISH.
AND ON VALENTINES DAY NO LESS!
For those who haven't read the first book in the Aspect and Anchor series,
Go.
Embrace.
Enjoy.
Make sure you don't have any important events coming up CAUSE HONEY.
These books become your daily events.
I have been Dieing LOL for Rhagos' book for what feels like a gah damn eternity now.
and suddenly...
I have it.
And its just as GAH DAMN fantastic as I was hoping it would be.
Max: She's the average joe gal: glasses, awkward, hates her boss, works a job where the
(side Bonus: She doesn't have immaculate breastesses. IBTC for the win! Rep us girl!)
Anyways, how does Max end up in the next anticipation?
Well, fate.....for minimal spoilers sake. Fate.
She's awkward, horrifyingly optimistic, and faces so many difficult decisions, and yet always stays true to her. She chooses others happiness and health over her own (even when she damn well shouldn't), which in some stories can be a real drag.
"Oh she chose them, she's so selfless, ohhh look at her in all her selflessness..." BLEH.
But, Max is selfless without the worship. She gives and cares for others because she genuinely cares about them. I seriously liked her.
This is now two solid female characters that feel like what any of us (women who dream of being transported into a chaotic dreamworld to partner with the love of our lives) would probably face, and give realistic reactions and responses (AKA. Non-Insta-Katniss-Everdeen). BonusBonus: she's funny. Not like a HAHAHAHAHA funny, but more like a 'unattractive snort to yourself' kind of funny.
Quotes:
"Their faces are dirty, their clothing rough, and one of the men leering at me has like, three teeth. If someone picks up a banjo and starts playing the Deliverence theme, I'm out of here."
"I am the Goddess of Knowledge. You think there is anything i don't know?"
"Do you know what this means?" I snap, flipping her the bird.
Seriously. Max was a delight.
Rhagos: BISH. biiiiiiiiishhhh. Rhagos is so friggin' book boyfriend material that, as we speak, I am immediately making changes to said list now. As the God of Death he has lived a lonely existence, and longs for the bond connection he has seen another God ( book one in the series coughcough go read it coughcough ) have with his anchor.
BONUS: he's the God of Death which totally reminds me of Hades (who is myth boytoy #1) so this automatically means I love him. I don't make the rules here, it's just logic.
He's tricky, powerful, but above all else, he just wants someone to talk to. To care for him. Someone who doesn't fear him and wants to be by his side for all eternity.
Through fate COUGHEMMGHHFLLEE Max and Rhages are paired for the next anticipation, and go through trials unlike we saw in the first book.
And....
well...
Im floundering...because at this point it is nearly impossible to tell you much more about the book without giving away spoilers, key plot points, or any GD SPOILERS.
This world is so fantastically magical, and in a way we haven't seen done a million times over. The Gods are cruel, the world is unforgiving of the weak, and to watch the main pair struggle through this is truly something to delight/throw your money at.
And did I mention, THERES A MAP AT THE BEGINNING OF THE DAMN BOOK?
Cause I'll say it once, I'll say it twice, I love me a damn book map.
(particularly when I'm confused exactly where we are, and also for times when I just want to explore the overall landscape we've been transported to.)
And when I say we get transported to the world, I mean it.
Now, Ruby Dixon is not just a God simply because of the imaginative, beautiful and entertaining story that she has created here.
Sit down students, class is in session
Sworn to the Shadow God is 645 pages.
Bound to the Battle God was 666 pages.
They were written, published and delivered to our greedy paws 9 months apart.
We all know what it's like to have to sit and wait what feels like eons for a new book in a series we love, and must find other ways to pass the time, BUT WAIT THERES MORE.
But between those 9 months of lonely waiting for our God of Death, Ruby Dixon published 8 other books (yes some of which are novellas but a BOOK is a GD book homie).
8
other
books.
That's essentially a book a month while we're waiting.
This gal y'all. Not only can she write such an incredibly fantastic tale of adventure, love, loss and dedication, BUT she can also put out 8 other dang good books to bide some dang time and keep our greedy little hearts happy.
I know authors always have things waiting on the back burner, and have multiple things going at once, but honestly you'd never know it reading this book. You'd swear she went on sabbatical for a month to focus all her time on this beautiful puppy.
5 give-me-Death-give-me-war-Gods-Damn-It-Give-Me-MORE! stars
November 18, 2021
its been 3 days since i finished this book and i still can't get over the way Rhagos was always rescuing Max's glasses 😍😍😍 (i'm blind af 👩🦯 and losing my glasses is an intense fear of mine 💀)
December 27, 2023
I thought it was impossible for Ruby Dixon to write boring book, but here we are!
Don’t mind the cover, in reality it’s not some cheap erotica (but when I think about it now...).
I loved the first book Bound to the Battle God. It was funny, lovely, interesting, so I was excited when I found out that there’s going to be a sequel.
It took the author more than 3 years (I think) to write the first book and it was kinda obvious, because it was done really good. But then the sequel was written in a few months and yeah, it end up horribly. Like okay, I know she publishes book like every month and it’s good, but what the heck is this?
This long slow-burn romance book it’s not her style so I get it why it took her so long to write it and therefore I think she should also took more time for the second book.
It was dull, confusing and disappointing.
I was praying through the whole book to be finally over. It was like never ending story.
There was a lot of names of people and places , it made it difficult for me to focused on everything. It was just too much.
Too much names, too much informations, too much dumb decisions, too much odd dialogs, too much annoying characters and yada yada yada.
Believe me, I am sad so much because I thought I would adore this.
2,35⭐️
Don’t mind the cover, in reality it’s not some cheap erotica (but when I think about it now...).
I loved the first book Bound to the Battle God. It was funny, lovely, interesting, so I was excited when I found out that there’s going to be a sequel.
It took the author more than 3 years (I think) to write the first book and it was kinda obvious, because it was done really good. But then the sequel was written in a few months and yeah, it end up horribly. Like okay, I know she publishes book like every month and it’s good, but what the heck is this?
This long slow-burn romance book it’s not her style so I get it why it took her so long to write it and therefore I think she should also took more time for the second book.
It was dull, confusing and disappointing.
I was praying through the whole book to be finally over. It was like never ending story.
There was a lot of names of people and places , it made it difficult for me to focused on everything. It was just too much.
Too much names, too much informations, too much dumb decisions, too much odd dialogs, too much annoying characters and yada yada yada.
Believe me, I am sad so much because I thought I would adore this.
2,35⭐️
September 29, 2023
max was fun and pretty relatable. the bite scene will forever be one of the most iconic moments in a ruby book i've ever read 🤣
i enjoyed watching their relationship grow and evolve. i thought it was so sweet how rhagos kept her glasses safe through a damn SHIPWRECK.
this series has original and interesting worldbuilding and lore, i will most likely continue reading.
i enjoyed watching their relationship grow and evolve. i thought it was so sweet how rhagos kept her glasses safe through a damn SHIPWRECK.
this series has original and interesting worldbuilding and lore, i will most likely continue reading.
November 14, 2020
After book one I was really looking forward to this read but whilst there were some moments that drew me in overall I felt underwhelmed and the MCs just didn't have me curling into my sofa in delight like the MCs from book one.
It was also pretty obvious which Aspect Rhagos was so how Max got it wrong I don't know.
Looking forward to Kassam’s book.
Acquired via KU.
It was also pretty obvious which Aspect Rhagos was so how Max got it wrong I don't know.
Looking forward to Kassam’s book.
Acquired via KU.
April 19, 2025
“Sworn to the Shadow God” by Ruby Dixon
5⭐️/5⭐️
4🌶/5🌶
“His gaze immediately swings to me. Those green eyes look so vivid that I feel seared as he stares at me. He makes no move to greet me, or say anything at all, but he doesn't look away. In fact, he just keeps staring at me, and the look in his eyes is so hungry and full of yearning that it makes me ache.”
Welcome to Aos, ruled by the High Father and twelve gods and goddesses. Periodically, the twelve are cast out of the heavens and forced to live among the mortals during what is called the Anticipation. The gods and goddesses are split into four aspects, qualities that they must rid themselves of in order to return to their celestial plane: lies, arrogance, apathy, and hedonism. Each aspect is guided by a mortal anchor, someone who will help humble them and guide the god or goddess through their journey. The last remaining aspect can ascend once more, and their anchor is granted immortality and the ability to live alongside their god or goddess in the celestial plane.
Rhagos, the god of death, is fed up with his existence. He resents being attached to a weak anchor, someone who cowers in fear and never challenges his opinion, and decides to approach the gods of fate in order to have an ‘Anticipation do-over’. This time, he wants a specific type of mortal, someone who isn’t from their world. Max works unhappily as an executive assistant for a gaming company. One day she notices the apartment two doors down is unlocked. It seems unoccupied, but something strange is pulling her toward the unit. Suddenly she is thrust into a totally new world, Aos, and told she must seek out the god of death. Max’s destiny seems threaded with Rhagos, but she doesn’t understand why she is here, or how to get home. Can Rhagos and Max work together and become the last aspect and anchor standing?
-I first read “Sworn to the Shadow God” about a year and a half ago, but the story has stuck with me; I think about it all the time. The Aspect and Anchor series is Ruby’s best example of writing, and it’s criminally underrated! It blows my mind when people either haven’t heard of the series, or they haven’t read the series, or they have only read the standalone novellas. If you aren’t reading the main books in this series then you’re missing out on some of the most enjoyable fantasy romance stories available on Kindle Unlimited. I would even go so far as to say “Sworn to the Shadow God” is one of the most romantic books I’ve ever read, and I only read romance books!
-For months I’ve been contemplating when to reread this book, and at first I was going to read the entire series. But then I thought “no, I just want to read about Max and Rhagos”, so I skipped the first book and went with the second. Reading this book for a second time has deepened my appreciation for the series, the story, the characters, Ruby’s writing. There is no doubt, this is one of my favorite books of all time.
-A big question I get asked when I recommend this book is: Do I have to read the first book before reading “Sworn to the Shadow God”? And it’s a complicated answer. The two books have events that occur concurrently, but the start of this book spoils the end of the first book. Most events that happen in “Bound to the Battle God” don’t affect the plot of “Sworn to the Shadow God”, but it does provide much-needed context on world building and why Max has certain emotional reactions in various points of the story. If you don’t mind the spoilers, and want to fast forward the gentle introduction to Aos, then it’s perfectly fine to skip “Bound to the Battle God” in order to read “Sworn to the Shadow God”.
-Now, earlier I said this book was one of the most romantic books I’ve ever read. It’s a bold claim, but I 100% stand by this statement. Why? Because of the MMC. Rhagos is a ‘sad boi’ and a loner. He has zero friends, and his relationship with the other gods and goddesses is purely transactional. All he has ever wanted was someone to be on his side, to support him, accept him, and provide a genuine partnership. He begins the book manipulating fate in order to get what he wants, and it’s because of this that he never takes Max for granted. Even when Max argues with him, challenges him, goes against his wishes, he always takes her side. If Max said she wanted to change the course of their journey, he would immediately go along with it. That’s not to say he is a doormat and lets Max do whatever they want, but there is implicit trust between the two of them, which is something he’s never had before. Rhagos has never had someone in his life that he could trust to have his best intentions in mind, but he has that with Max.
-This is a story of a guy that falls first, and he falls HARD. Rhagos shows his love for Max in every single interaction they have. Whether he’s combing her hair, giving her his robe, shielding her with his body, protecting her glasses, listening patiently, engaging with her ideas; every single exchange reflects his appreciation for their partnership.
-I see many people complaining about Max, saying she’s so naïve, she’s too trusting, she makes too many mistakes. Well…those are all relatable traits. I’d rather read about an FMC that has some rough qualities to her personality, or who messes up occasionally. Max doesn’t have it all figured out, but she’s always trying to do better. She knows her faults and weaknesses. I’ve noticed many fantasy romance FMCs are portrayed as total badasses. They’re sassy, weirdly talented in the fantasy world they’re in, and this character type gets a bit old after a while. I think Max is a realistic depiction of how most people would act in her situation. Most people would use whatever skills they have to try and figure out how to get home, even if those skills don’t translate perfectly. Max worked in the corporate side of a gaming company, so she approaches Rhagos’ situation pragmatically. I enjoyed reading about an FMC that really tried to problem solve her situation in the most sensible way possible.
-Let’s talk about the smut, because although I give this book four chili peppers, it’s kind of a slow burn. Max and Rhagos have a rocky start to their physical relationship. There are some misunderstandings, feelings get hurt, and Rhagos backs off to give Max her space. However, when they seek each other out later in the story, it’s a nice gradual progression toward fulfilling their desire for one another. There are so many scenes that take my breath away, their love for each other is evident before they ever utter the words. Max is a virgin, but she’s not totally inexperienced. And Rhagos has a sexual history, but it was purely physical, he’s never had someone express desire for him as an individual. Rhagos is an enthusiastic lover, he worships Max and her body, and he isn’t deterred by anything. For example, once they are regularly engaging in physical intimacy, Max gets her period. But Rhagos doesn’t mind a bit of blood, he still desires Max and wants to give her pleasure.
-While this is a romance book, I cannot discount the fantasy portion of the book. If you’re in the mood for a fantasy book that has easy world building, is approachable, and will suck you right into the story, this is the book for you. The mythology of Aos and the Anticipation is very straight forward, this is definitely a fantasy book that doesn't feel like you have to keep track of ten billion things throughout the story.
-There is a big plot twist roughly ~35% into the story. The first time I read the book I was shocked, but the second time I read it I put the pieces together a lot sooner. Maybe most people picked up on this twist before I did (the first time), but I thought it was so cleverly written and thought out. This twist irrevocably changes Max and Rhagos’ relationship, and the story takes a nice shift toward a more progressive path. I won’t say any more, it’s truly something you need to experience as a reader!
-I would recommend this book if you want to read about a lonely MMC becoming an absolute simp for the FMC, a super approachable fantasy book, a fantasy book that has a slight bit of humor (as do all Ruby Dixon books), is highly romantic, contains amazing smut, or just want a fun reading experience. I truly cherish this series, it marked a turning point in my reading journey. If I hadn’t read the Aspect and Anchor series then I would probably have avoided most fantasy books and series.
ETA: I wanted to also add that Rhagos is inspired by the aesthetics of Kylo Ren, so if you're into that…you will love this book.
5⭐️/5⭐️
4🌶/5🌶
“His gaze immediately swings to me. Those green eyes look so vivid that I feel seared as he stares at me. He makes no move to greet me, or say anything at all, but he doesn't look away. In fact, he just keeps staring at me, and the look in his eyes is so hungry and full of yearning that it makes me ache.”
Welcome to Aos, ruled by the High Father and twelve gods and goddesses. Periodically, the twelve are cast out of the heavens and forced to live among the mortals during what is called the Anticipation. The gods and goddesses are split into four aspects, qualities that they must rid themselves of in order to return to their celestial plane: lies, arrogance, apathy, and hedonism. Each aspect is guided by a mortal anchor, someone who will help humble them and guide the god or goddess through their journey. The last remaining aspect can ascend once more, and their anchor is granted immortality and the ability to live alongside their god or goddess in the celestial plane.
Rhagos, the god of death, is fed up with his existence. He resents being attached to a weak anchor, someone who cowers in fear and never challenges his opinion, and decides to approach the gods of fate in order to have an ‘Anticipation do-over’. This time, he wants a specific type of mortal, someone who isn’t from their world. Max works unhappily as an executive assistant for a gaming company. One day she notices the apartment two doors down is unlocked. It seems unoccupied, but something strange is pulling her toward the unit. Suddenly she is thrust into a totally new world, Aos, and told she must seek out the god of death. Max’s destiny seems threaded with Rhagos, but she doesn’t understand why she is here, or how to get home. Can Rhagos and Max work together and become the last aspect and anchor standing?
-I first read “Sworn to the Shadow God” about a year and a half ago, but the story has stuck with me; I think about it all the time. The Aspect and Anchor series is Ruby’s best example of writing, and it’s criminally underrated! It blows my mind when people either haven’t heard of the series, or they haven’t read the series, or they have only read the standalone novellas. If you aren’t reading the main books in this series then you’re missing out on some of the most enjoyable fantasy romance stories available on Kindle Unlimited. I would even go so far as to say “Sworn to the Shadow God” is one of the most romantic books I’ve ever read, and I only read romance books!
-For months I’ve been contemplating when to reread this book, and at first I was going to read the entire series. But then I thought “no, I just want to read about Max and Rhagos”, so I skipped the first book and went with the second. Reading this book for a second time has deepened my appreciation for the series, the story, the characters, Ruby’s writing. There is no doubt, this is one of my favorite books of all time.
-A big question I get asked when I recommend this book is: Do I have to read the first book before reading “Sworn to the Shadow God”? And it’s a complicated answer. The two books have events that occur concurrently, but the start of this book spoils the end of the first book. Most events that happen in “Bound to the Battle God” don’t affect the plot of “Sworn to the Shadow God”, but it does provide much-needed context on world building and why Max has certain emotional reactions in various points of the story. If you don’t mind the spoilers, and want to fast forward the gentle introduction to Aos, then it’s perfectly fine to skip “Bound to the Battle God” in order to read “Sworn to the Shadow God”.
-Now, earlier I said this book was one of the most romantic books I’ve ever read. It’s a bold claim, but I 100% stand by this statement. Why? Because of the MMC. Rhagos is a ‘sad boi’ and a loner. He has zero friends, and his relationship with the other gods and goddesses is purely transactional. All he has ever wanted was someone to be on his side, to support him, accept him, and provide a genuine partnership. He begins the book manipulating fate in order to get what he wants, and it’s because of this that he never takes Max for granted. Even when Max argues with him, challenges him, goes against his wishes, he always takes her side. If Max said she wanted to change the course of their journey, he would immediately go along with it. That’s not to say he is a doormat and lets Max do whatever they want, but there is implicit trust between the two of them, which is something he’s never had before. Rhagos has never had someone in his life that he could trust to have his best intentions in mind, but he has that with Max.
-This is a story of a guy that falls first, and he falls HARD. Rhagos shows his love for Max in every single interaction they have. Whether he’s combing her hair, giving her his robe, shielding her with his body, protecting her glasses, listening patiently, engaging with her ideas; every single exchange reflects his appreciation for their partnership.
-I see many people complaining about Max, saying she’s so naïve, she’s too trusting, she makes too many mistakes. Well…those are all relatable traits. I’d rather read about an FMC that has some rough qualities to her personality, or who messes up occasionally. Max doesn’t have it all figured out, but she’s always trying to do better. She knows her faults and weaknesses. I’ve noticed many fantasy romance FMCs are portrayed as total badasses. They’re sassy, weirdly talented in the fantasy world they’re in, and this character type gets a bit old after a while. I think Max is a realistic depiction of how most people would act in her situation. Most people would use whatever skills they have to try and figure out how to get home, even if those skills don’t translate perfectly. Max worked in the corporate side of a gaming company, so she approaches Rhagos’ situation pragmatically. I enjoyed reading about an FMC that really tried to problem solve her situation in the most sensible way possible.
-Let’s talk about the smut, because although I give this book four chili peppers, it’s kind of a slow burn. Max and Rhagos have a rocky start to their physical relationship. There are some misunderstandings, feelings get hurt, and Rhagos backs off to give Max her space. However, when they seek each other out later in the story, it’s a nice gradual progression toward fulfilling their desire for one another. There are so many scenes that take my breath away, their love for each other is evident before they ever utter the words. Max is a virgin, but she’s not totally inexperienced. And Rhagos has a sexual history, but it was purely physical, he’s never had someone express desire for him as an individual. Rhagos is an enthusiastic lover, he worships Max and her body, and he isn’t deterred by anything. For example, once they are regularly engaging in physical intimacy, Max gets her period. But Rhagos doesn’t mind a bit of blood, he still desires Max and wants to give her pleasure.
-While this is a romance book, I cannot discount the fantasy portion of the book. If you’re in the mood for a fantasy book that has easy world building, is approachable, and will suck you right into the story, this is the book for you. The mythology of Aos and the Anticipation is very straight forward, this is definitely a fantasy book that doesn't feel like you have to keep track of ten billion things throughout the story.
-There is a big plot twist roughly ~35% into the story. The first time I read the book I was shocked, but the second time I read it I put the pieces together a lot sooner. Maybe most people picked up on this twist before I did (the first time), but I thought it was so cleverly written and thought out. This twist irrevocably changes Max and Rhagos’ relationship, and the story takes a nice shift toward a more progressive path. I won’t say any more, it’s truly something you need to experience as a reader!
-I would recommend this book if you want to read about a lonely MMC becoming an absolute simp for the FMC, a super approachable fantasy book, a fantasy book that has a slight bit of humor (as do all Ruby Dixon books), is highly romantic, contains amazing smut, or just want a fun reading experience. I truly cherish this series, it marked a turning point in my reading journey. If I hadn’t read the Aspect and Anchor series then I would probably have avoided most fantasy books and series.
ETA: I wanted to also add that Rhagos is inspired by the aesthetics of Kylo Ren, so if you're into that…you will love this book.
November 27, 2025
I enjoyed this book, but it was missing some of the elements from the first book that I really enjoyed, so compared to that it fell flat. It was also so long! I think this could have been shortened a bit, which would have streamlined the story more and helped keep me more engaged. There were parts that I loved and I couldn't put the book down, but there were other spots that felt too long.
preread
As soon as we heard about the God of Death/Shadows in the first book I just KNEW he was going to get his own story.
preread
As soon as we heard about the God of Death/Shadows in the first book I just KNEW he was going to get his own story.
October 11, 2020
3 Stars
Overall Opinion: I like this world that Ms. Dixon has created. I just think this wasn’t as good as the first book. While I liked the h, I didn’t feel like I really connected with the H. I also felt like it was too long. I appreciate the idea of an adventure, but a lot of it didn’t seem necessary in the grand scheme of things and could’ve been edited down. I knew going in that this was like the first book and long, but I guess I also had high hopes that it would keep me interested enough to not feel long (like I remember the first book doing). Overall, I still like this world she has created and I might even read the next book because it sounds fun — but I sadly didn’t love it.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Max and Rhagos’s story. Max is looking for her friend and neighbor when she gets sucked into another dimension and a world very different from her own. She immediately meets a ‘spinner’ that tells her that her fate is with death but that it’s not her own death, meaning that she is to become the God of death’s mortal anchor. She is unsure what all this means but Max is a gamer, so she decides to approach it all like a quest that she has to complete to get back home. They go on an adventure to get what they both want, there are some suspenseful scenes, and some sexy times... and they get a HEA ending.
Point Of View (POV): This was told in Max’s POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Not the best. This was another long one (626 pages in kindle app). I knew that going in, so it’s my bad. But! It definitely felt long in that it dragged at times. I never skimmed though.
Instalove: No, they take a while to develop stronger feelings.
H (Hero) rating: 3 stars. Rhagos. I thought he was alright. I think it would’ve helped a lot if we got some of his POV throughout the book.
h (heroine) rating: 4 stars. Max. I liked her. I appreciated her strength, how she tried to always stay positive, and her loyalty.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Not really
Heat level: Hot. They have some hot tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story. The take a while to be intimate so I’d say it’s more of a slow-burn in the heat department.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: No
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: Yes, but only physically
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had pretty good closure and what I would call a HEA ending (even though it doesn’t quite fit all my usual requirements because it’s a different world/reality).
Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
Overall Opinion: I like this world that Ms. Dixon has created. I just think this wasn’t as good as the first book. While I liked the h, I didn’t feel like I really connected with the H. I also felt like it was too long. I appreciate the idea of an adventure, but a lot of it didn’t seem necessary in the grand scheme of things and could’ve been edited down. I knew going in that this was like the first book and long, but I guess I also had high hopes that it would keep me interested enough to not feel long (like I remember the first book doing). Overall, I still like this world she has created and I might even read the next book because it sounds fun — but I sadly didn’t love it.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Max and Rhagos’s story. Max is looking for her friend and neighbor when she gets sucked into another dimension and a world very different from her own. She immediately meets a ‘spinner’ that tells her that her fate is with death but that it’s not her own death, meaning that she is to become the God of death’s mortal anchor. She is unsure what all this means but Max is a gamer, so she decides to approach it all like a quest that she has to complete to get back home. They go on an adventure to get what they both want, there are some suspenseful scenes, and some sexy times... and they get a HEA ending.
Point Of View (POV): This was told in Max’s POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Not the best. This was another long one (626 pages in kindle app). I knew that going in, so it’s my bad. But! It definitely felt long in that it dragged at times. I never skimmed though.
Instalove: No, they take a while to develop stronger feelings.
H (Hero) rating: 3 stars. Rhagos. I thought he was alright. I think it would’ve helped a lot if we got some of his POV throughout the book.
h (heroine) rating: 4 stars. Max. I liked her. I appreciated her strength, how she tried to always stay positive, and her loyalty.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Not really
Heat level: Hot. They have some hot tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story. The take a while to be intimate so I’d say it’s more of a slow-burn in the heat department.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: No
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: Yes, but only physically
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had pretty good closure and what I would call a HEA ending (even though it doesn’t quite fit all my usual requirements because it’s a different world/reality).
Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
October 26, 2021
I LOVE THIS WORLD!!! I’m already dying for more (I’m ready for you Kassam!). I love the delicious slow burn (let me tell you, when things heat up things HEAT UP 🔥) and I love the heroes. I struggled with the heroine in this but I could see why RD wanted to write her this way (naive/innocent). Rhagos was dreamy as hell even though I still don’t know how to pronounce his name lol. I can’t wait for book 3!!
February 20, 2020
It feels bad giving my first 1* rating to a book by Ruby Dixon (she’s probably my favorite romance writer) but I had to be honest with myself. To say this is by far the worst material I’ve ever read from her would mean little, since I love her books, so what I’m saying is: this is just bad, period.
Let’s start at the beginning. When the first book in the series came out, I read the blurb and had a bad feeling about it. Somehow it didn’t sound like the Ruby Dixon I know and enjoy, but more like an Eve Langlais’ book - good for you if you like that chick-lit feel to your sci-fi and fantasy romance books but I definitely do not. So I skipped it. However, people were so hyped about the first book that I had to give the second a try, after all, the blurb seemed more interesting to me.
Oh boy, was I wrong... You couldn’t pay me enough to finish this train wreck, I would rather jump out the window.
This heroine is beyond stupid, and I was at first so happy that she was Mexican like me! Now it’s almost insulting... It took me a minute to figure out what was happening with the main guy (sorry, didn’t care enough to memorize his name) and she had YET to find out when I quit reading. According to other reviews, if you read the first book it’s even easier to see what’s going on and I suppose even more frustrating.
Anyway, that isn’t the only problem with this book. There’s been a couple of heroines for whom I didn’t care much in Ruby’s books, but the story was still compelling. This story is not interesting at all. I just couldn’t bring myself to care for anyone nor anything in this world. Everything felt so flimsy, so half-hearted, so half-built. Also, the writing is... meh... like she had the story stuck in her head and she just let it out - short lines/paragraphs, jumpy scenes, no deep characterization.
I’m just so disappointed.
Let’s start at the beginning. When the first book in the series came out, I read the blurb and had a bad feeling about it. Somehow it didn’t sound like the Ruby Dixon I know and enjoy, but more like an Eve Langlais’ book - good for you if you like that chick-lit feel to your sci-fi and fantasy romance books but I definitely do not. So I skipped it. However, people were so hyped about the first book that I had to give the second a try, after all, the blurb seemed more interesting to me.
Oh boy, was I wrong... You couldn’t pay me enough to finish this train wreck, I would rather jump out the window.
This heroine is beyond stupid, and I was at first so happy that she was Mexican like me! Now it’s almost insulting... It took me a minute to figure out what was happening with the main guy (sorry, didn’t care enough to memorize his name) and she had YET to find out when I quit reading. According to other reviews, if you read the first book it’s even easier to see what’s going on and I suppose even more frustrating.
Anyway, that isn’t the only problem with this book. There’s been a couple of heroines for whom I didn’t care much in Ruby’s books, but the story was still compelling. This story is not interesting at all. I just couldn’t bring myself to care for anyone nor anything in this world. Everything felt so flimsy, so half-hearted, so half-built. Also, the writing is... meh... like she had the story stuck in her head and she just let it out - short lines/paragraphs, jumpy scenes, no deep characterization.
I’m just so disappointed.
October 20, 2022
3 stars... so it took me a LONG time to finish this book. I really struggled with it especially at the beginning (and ok the middle too) because the heroine was the biggest moron ever. I couldn’t take how dumb she was acting, and it made me quit reading several times. I finally decided to come back to this one and finish it... and I’m glad that I did. I ended up really liking the ending. Was it worth reading the whole thing? Not sure tbh.
This book is available on kindle unlimited and hoopla audiobook, I did a combo of both.
Spoilers below ...
So at the end of the book, Ruby Dixon has a note to the reader explaining why she chose to make Max(the heroine) behave as she did. Supposedly, RD meant to make Max very trusting which is why she believes Rhagos when he tells her he isn’t lying to her. But here’s the thing... Max is told about all the possible aspects. She barely even considers him being lies.... she glosses over that one like it’s not a real possibility. Meanwhile, it’s very obvious to the reader that he’s lying constantly. I wish this was done in either a more subtle way, or, Max needed to be kept in the dark about the four different aspects so she didn’t know to ask. I think the way it was written just made Max into a total moron and that was extremely frustrating to read for an entire VERY LENGTHY novel. Plus, her constantly overlooking his obvious lies was just a small part of what made her dumb. She couldn’t think two seconds ahead to save her life and trusted everyone so blindly, that imo, she often deserved to just die for her stupidity.
Safe; heroine was a virgin, hero’s past not rubbed in my face, thanks RD 🤗
This book is available on kindle unlimited and hoopla audiobook, I did a combo of both.
Spoilers below ...
So at the end of the book, Ruby Dixon has a note to the reader explaining why she chose to make Max(the heroine) behave as she did. Supposedly, RD meant to make Max very trusting which is why she believes Rhagos when he tells her he isn’t lying to her. But here’s the thing... Max is told about all the possible aspects. She barely even considers him being lies.... she glosses over that one like it’s not a real possibility. Meanwhile, it’s very obvious to the reader that he’s lying constantly. I wish this was done in either a more subtle way, or, Max needed to be kept in the dark about the four different aspects so she didn’t know to ask. I think the way it was written just made Max into a total moron and that was extremely frustrating to read for an entire VERY LENGTHY novel. Plus, her constantly overlooking his obvious lies was just a small part of what made her dumb. She couldn’t think two seconds ahead to save her life and trusted everyone so blindly, that imo, she often deserved to just die for her stupidity.
Safe; heroine was a virgin, hero’s past not rubbed in my face, thanks RD 🤗
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 20, 2021
The world-building, and adventure part is a solid 5 stars.
No question.
It solid.
I could literally just read about people travelling around in this world. I find it that fascinating.
Why 4 stars then?
Personality wise I found both characters really appealing.
It was a contrast that really spoke to me, but I wasn’t 100% sold. The hooks didn’t sink in as deep as I had hoped.
I liked Max. She was sweet, loyal, a little gullible but overall kind. The gamer parts I couldn’t see. And that was the only thing about her personality that didn’t click with me. But I really liked how Max you “see” Rhagos. For what he needed.
Rhagos was less “deadly” than I thought he would be. Granted, he did kill, but he didn’t do it because he enjoyed it and thought people worthless and I kinda had the expression that he was a “cares for no-one/all will die by my hand if I will it”.
I guess I thought he was gonna be worse? And since I expected that and it never came I don’t really feel like Rhagos was bad “Dark Brother”. I don’t know.
I still have mad respect for how well Dixon portrayed this type of Aspect. It was so much fun! Really frustrating at times, but in a good way. It really worked💪
Read: 20/04/2021
1st rating: 4 stars
Genre/tropes: Fantasy/romance/adult
Cover: 2 stars
POV’s: Single -1st person (Max)
Will I recommend: Yes🌺
No question.
It solid.
I could literally just read about people travelling around in this world. I find it that fascinating.
Why 4 stars then?
Personality wise I found both characters really appealing.
It was a contrast that really spoke to me, but I wasn’t 100% sold. The hooks didn’t sink in as deep as I had hoped.
I liked Max. She was sweet, loyal, a little gullible but overall kind. The gamer parts I couldn’t see. And that was the only thing about her personality that didn’t click with me. But I really liked how Max you “see” Rhagos. For what he needed.
Rhagos was less “deadly” than I thought he would be. Granted, he did kill, but he didn’t do it because he enjoyed it and thought people worthless and I kinda had the expression that he was a “cares for no-one/all will die by my hand if I will it”.
I guess I thought he was gonna be worse? And since I expected that and it never came I don’t really feel like Rhagos was bad “Dark Brother”. I don’t know.
I still have mad respect for how well Dixon portrayed this type of Aspect. It was so much fun! Really frustrating at times, but in a good way. It really worked💪
Read: 20/04/2021
1st rating: 4 stars
Genre/tropes: Fantasy/romance/adult
Cover: 2 stars
POV’s: Single -1st person (Max)
Will I recommend: Yes🌺
March 3, 2025
*Re-read
I loveed this book, The first book in this series really surprised me. I never thought Ruby Dixon could top her Ice Planet series and then I read this book and fell head over heals in love. Book one was one of my favorites in a very small list for last year. When I saw this book I was so thrilled and then I was actually a little scared I loved book one so much I was scared this book couldn't live up to book one. But I finally couldn't hold off anymore. Reading this book was so amazing going back to this very interesting world that she took so much care in creating with not only the world building but the details and characters. I loved this book it was so so good. In fact I can say now it will again be one of my favorite books of 2020. I really hope we don't have to wait too long for book three because I can't wait for this book. Once I read about this male character I knew he had to be the next book and I was so happy he is. Then I read Ruby Dixon's notes at the end and I am even more excited. I am just blown away. I can't recommend this book enough
I loveed this book, The first book in this series really surprised me. I never thought Ruby Dixon could top her Ice Planet series and then I read this book and fell head over heals in love. Book one was one of my favorites in a very small list for last year. When I saw this book I was so thrilled and then I was actually a little scared I loved book one so much I was scared this book couldn't live up to book one. But I finally couldn't hold off anymore. Reading this book was so amazing going back to this very interesting world that she took so much care in creating with not only the world building but the details and characters. I loved this book it was so so good. In fact I can say now it will again be one of my favorite books of 2020. I really hope we don't have to wait too long for book three because I can't wait for this book. Once I read about this male character I knew he had to be the next book and I was so happy he is. Then I read Ruby Dixon's notes at the end and I am even more excited. I am just blown away. I can't recommend this book enough
March 28, 2020
3/28/20 This month marks the second year anniversary of my discovery of Ruby Dixon. 🥰🥰 I am so glad I stumbled upon her work. She has def become one of my fave authors. Anywho...
This was not as good as the first book in the series. Overall it was still good but compared too the first one it is lacking. I loved Rhagos's character and, yea, Max was a little to trusting at times but I still liked the story and the chemistry between Max and Rhagos. And there were quite a few times I laughed out loud. I can't wait for Kassam's story!
At this point I am trash for Ruby Dixon. I have an entire shelf dedicated to her books just to keep track of what I've read of hers. Her books are definitely ones I reach for when I need a comfort read or some smut in my life.
Pre-reading thoughts:
I have not been in the mood to read any PNR lately. BUT one look at this and I am so ready now! CANNOT wait!
This was not as good as the first book in the series. Overall it was still good but compared too the first one it is lacking. I loved Rhagos's character and, yea, Max was a little to trusting at times but I still liked the story and the chemistry between Max and Rhagos. And there were quite a few times I laughed out loud. I can't wait for Kassam's story!
At this point I am trash for Ruby Dixon. I have an entire shelf dedicated to her books just to keep track of what I've read of hers. Her books are definitely ones I reach for when I need a comfort read or some smut in my life.
Pre-reading thoughts:
I have not been in the mood to read any PNR lately. BUT one look at this and I am so ready now! CANNOT wait!
August 7, 2024
Wow
I held off reading this for a while because I didn't know if it would be as good as the first. Man, but I gotta say I really loved this one. The characters couldn't have been more different from book one, but it was just as good if not better. Knowing what Rhagos had set in motion from the beginning allows us to see as it becomes real for him, and he takes care of and falls in love with Max.
Rhagos was so desperate for love and companionship he was willing to bend the rules and manipulate time just for a taste. Max was caring, sweet, loyal, and a tad too trusting. Some may think she was too forgiving, but Rhagos knew his actions were like a guillotine hanging over his head from the start, and so all his care and actions with Max were like a whole book redemption/grovel arc. Rhagos completely melted my heart and like Max I found him easy to forgive.
The books in this series so far have been amazing. Each one a romantic fantasy epic or saga, well worth the read.
I held off reading this for a while because I didn't know if it would be as good as the first. Man, but I gotta say I really loved this one. The characters couldn't have been more different from book one, but it was just as good if not better. Knowing what Rhagos had set in motion from the beginning allows us to see as it becomes real for him, and he takes care of and falls in love with Max.
Rhagos was so desperate for love and companionship he was willing to bend the rules and manipulate time just for a taste. Max was caring, sweet, loyal, and a tad too trusting. Some may think she was too forgiving, but Rhagos knew his actions were like a guillotine hanging over his head from the start, and so all his care and actions with Max were like a whole book redemption/grovel arc. Rhagos completely melted my heart and like Max I found him easy to forgive.
The books in this series so far have been amazing. Each one a romantic fantasy epic or saga, well worth the read.
December 11, 2021
Somewhere between a 3.5 and 4 stars -- I really enjoy the world building of this series! It's a little bit different than anything I've read, and genre wise, it feels pretty distinct. Like if you are into the tone of a romcom but in an epic fantasy, this is for you, and I would definitely recommend this as a series for romance readers interested to get used to the pacing of an epic fantasy. I personally really like this version of the Anchor/Aspect dynamic where there is a hero in pursuit set up, and I'm always down for a god of death as a hero, but I do think some of the reveals were a bit too obvious. Like the one that happens around the 1/3 mark - I wish that hadn't been drawn out so long. Still, this delivers the voice, plot, and characters I've come to love from Ruby Dixon and I will certainly continue in the series
December 11, 2022
Gods, spiders, fates oh my! What a great addition to the series!
I seriously can’t get enough!! This Aspect had the funniest communication problem 🤫😅
PLEASE WRITE MORE FOR THIS SERIES RUBY 🙏
I seriously can’t get enough!! This Aspect had the funniest communication problem 🤫😅
PLEASE WRITE MORE FOR THIS SERIES RUBY 🙏
June 29, 2023
I had such mixed feelings about this book because I think some of the world building for the characteristics of certain aspects was a bit inconsistent. I had to frequently reread lines of the books.
But I fucking LOVED the MCs.
The FMC is immediately thrilled to be dropped into a fantasy world to have her own adventure. At least for a little bit. She was the naive sunshine (and I’m diagnosing her with autism because she’s totally autistic coded) sweetheart who grows into herself. The MMC was the desperate to be loved tragic back story morally grey/villainous dreamboat and they were perfect for each other. The ending was fabulous and sweet and I love them.
Spice: 4/5
Triggers: author lists at front of book
But I fucking LOVED the MCs.
The FMC is immediately thrilled to be dropped into a fantasy world to have her own adventure. At least for a little bit. She was the naive sunshine (and I’m diagnosing her with autism because she’s totally autistic coded) sweetheart who grows into herself. The MMC was the desperate to be loved tragic back story morally grey/villainous dreamboat and they were perfect for each other. The ending was fabulous and sweet and I love them.
Spice: 4/5
Triggers: author lists at front of book
March 21, 2021
Wow. That was a long book. I think I need to take a short break after this. My brain is exhausted. Plus, having to discern what the hero was saying all the time, it was hard on my poor brain.
Onto the book! The premise of this book began with the Anticipation where all the gods fell down from their plane/world of existence to the mortal world in Aos, fragmented into 4 aspects (i.e. Arrogance, Lies, Hedonism and Apathy). The same one as in Book 1 but a restart for the God of Death, Rhagos. Early on from the prologue, he wasn't satisfied with his anchor and made a deal with Spidae or Lords of Fate.
So, we got Maxine a.k.a. Max, the heroine of this book, a video game company secretary (ehem, executive assistant) who was transported into this new world, humourous, quick to trust, kind and overall nice. She was destined for God of Death, of course. So, you kinda can say it's similar to Hades and Persephone retelling.
I like it. Very much so. Sure, she was too forgiving and too trusting, but in her forgiveness, I found strength. I actually didn't find much fault in this. I like that she didn't draw out the drama and was compassionate and understanding. That part didn't bother me. The one that did was how innocent she was, trying to save everyone, thinking everyone could be redeemed. She was just too naive and nice, things that I didn't find attractive in heroines nowadays. Granted, having Lord of Underworld as your partner, you need to have balance between good and evil, but still this book didn't fully immerse itself with the idea of Underworld. Plus, with the speech barrier we had in the book, it was hard to get a proper explaining of these things. So, I ended up getting frustrated.
I still love the world though. The many places they ventured, especially Hrit Unth/Svala. The interaction. The ending. Rhagos. The slowwww burrrnnnnnn.
Onto the book! The premise of this book began with the Anticipation where all the gods fell down from their plane/world of existence to the mortal world in Aos, fragmented into 4 aspects (i.e. Arrogance, Lies, Hedonism and Apathy). The same one as in Book 1 but a restart for the God of Death, Rhagos. Early on from the prologue, he wasn't satisfied with his anchor and made a deal with Spidae or Lords of Fate.
So, we got Maxine a.k.a. Max, the heroine of this book, a video game company secretary (ehem, executive assistant) who was transported into this new world, humourous, quick to trust, kind and overall nice. She was destined for God of Death, of course. So, you kinda can say it's similar to Hades and Persephone retelling.
I like it. Very much so. Sure, she was too forgiving and too trusting, but in her forgiveness, I found strength. I actually didn't find much fault in this. I like that she didn't draw out the drama and was compassionate and understanding. That part didn't bother me. The one that did was how innocent she was, trying to save everyone, thinking everyone could be redeemed. She was just too naive and nice, things that I didn't find attractive in heroines nowadays. Granted, having Lord of Underworld as your partner, you need to have balance between good and evil, but still this book didn't fully immerse itself with the idea of Underworld. Plus, with the speech barrier we had in the book, it was hard to get a proper explaining of these things. So, I ended up getting frustrated.
I still love the world though. The many places they ventured, especially Hrit Unth/Svala. The interaction. The ending. Rhagos. The slowwww burrrnnnnnn.
February 17, 2020
Hoo okay, it pains me to give a 2 star rating to Ruby Dixon because, hello? Its Ruby fucking Dixon. But when I think about how much time and patience I've put up with this book, yup. 2 stars it is.
I did it, I am ashamed, but I did it. I got affected by the hype. When I first read the blurb, I've had my doubts. But with the success of the first book and as a sucker for slowburn romance, I decided to read it right after I finished Bound To The Battle GodBound To The Battle God.
I mean it was okay at first, Max's naivety and positive attitude was sort of endearing. I mean the book is 600+ pages long, growth must happen at some point right? Right?
Bitch, wrong.
Fast forward maybe 200+ pages and her brain is annoying. I find her admirable at times but mostly I just think she's stupid. And she's so adorably "dorky" and blushes all the time, its aggravating.
I cannot care less about the plot, the action and the romance. I mean I gotta say, the first book wasn't perfect, but this book is just no.
DNF at 71%
I tried man, I really tried.
I did it, I am ashamed, but I did it. I got affected by the hype. When I first read the blurb, I've had my doubts. But with the success of the first book and as a sucker for slowburn romance, I decided to read it right after I finished Bound To The Battle GodBound To The Battle God.
I mean it was okay at first, Max's naivety and positive attitude was sort of endearing. I mean the book is 600+ pages long, growth must happen at some point right? Right?
Bitch, wrong.
Fast forward maybe 200+ pages and her brain is annoying. I find her admirable at times but mostly I just think she's stupid. And she's so adorably "dorky" and blushes all the time, its aggravating.
I cannot care less about the plot, the action and the romance. I mean I gotta say, the first book wasn't perfect, but this book is just no.
DNF at 71%
I tried man, I really tried.
July 9, 2020
Let it be known, the level with which I fangirled over Rhagos is probably embarrassing.
All 5 stars are for him and only him. My sad & lonely cinnamon roll of death deserves them.
All 5 stars are for him and only him. My sad & lonely cinnamon roll of death deserves them.
August 27, 2023
3.75 stars
I found the FMC mildly annoying for a good part of the book, because Max was SO dumb, but by the end of the book I found her really endearing. Her kindness and empathy were definitely her best qualities, and her made her the perfect match for Rhagos, the lonely God of Death. 🥹
I probably would have enjoyed this book more if I gone in blind, instead of with certain expectations about the storyline after reading (and absolutely loving) the first book.
I found the FMC mildly annoying for a good part of the book, because Max was SO dumb, but by the end of the book I found her really endearing. Her kindness and empathy were definitely her best qualities, and her made her the perfect match for Rhagos, the lonely God of Death. 🥹
I probably would have enjoyed this book more if I gone in blind, instead of with certain expectations about the storyline after reading (and absolutely loving) the first book.
Read
March 10, 2022𝗱𝗻𝗳 @20%
Yeah I'm not sure what's happening with me and Sworn to the Shadow God but I'm just not feeling it. With the first book in the series I didn't really feel the length much but with this I really am.
I guess what I'm not getting is 1. how our heroine had no idea what spector he was! and 2. I get why she likes him but I'm not seeing why he liked her so much right away. I felt like in the first one Faith and Arron really grew to love and respect each other and with this one not so much.
So I think I'm gonna pick this one up again at a later date.
┍━━━━━━━━━━━━━━┑
𝗔𝗦𝗣𝗘𝗖𝗧 𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗔𝗡𝗖𝗛𝗢𝗥 𝗦𝗘𝗥𝗜𝗘𝗦
𝟬.𝟱. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗞𝗶𝗻𝗴'𝘀 𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗕𝗿𝗶𝗱𝗲 ~ 𝘁𝗯𝗿 👑
𝟭. 𝗕𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗕𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗹𝗲 𝗚𝗼𝗱 ~ 𝟰.𝟳𝟱 ⚡️
𝟮. 𝗦𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗻 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝗵𝗮𝗱𝗼𝘄 𝗚𝗼𝗱 ~ 𝗱𝗻𝗳 💀
𝟯. 𝗪𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗪𝗶𝗹𝗱 𝗚𝗼𝗱 ~ 𝗱𝗻𝗳 🍃
┕━━━━━━━━━━━━━━┙
Yeah I'm not sure what's happening with me and Sworn to the Shadow God but I'm just not feeling it. With the first book in the series I didn't really feel the length much but with this I really am.
I guess what I'm not getting is 1. how our heroine had no idea what spector he was! and 2. I get why she likes him but I'm not seeing why he liked her so much right away. I felt like in the first one Faith and Arron really grew to love and respect each other and with this one not so much.
So I think I'm gonna pick this one up again at a later date.
┍━━━━━━━━━━━━━━┑
𝗔𝗦𝗣𝗘𝗖𝗧 𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗔𝗡𝗖𝗛𝗢𝗥 𝗦𝗘𝗥𝗜𝗘𝗦
𝟬.𝟱. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗞𝗶𝗻𝗴'𝘀 𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗕𝗿𝗶𝗱𝗲 ~ 𝘁𝗯𝗿 👑
𝟭. 𝗕𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗕𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗹𝗲 𝗚𝗼𝗱 ~ 𝟰.𝟳𝟱 ⚡️
𝟮. 𝗦𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗻 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝗵𝗮𝗱𝗼𝘄 𝗚𝗼𝗱 ~ 𝗱𝗻𝗳 💀
𝟯. 𝗪𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗪𝗶𝗹𝗱 𝗚𝗼𝗱 ~ 𝗱𝗻𝗳 🍃
┕━━━━━━━━━━━━━━┙
February 17, 2020
This is fast becoming one of my favourite fantasy series. Loved this one as much as the first one and I’m super excited for the next book. If you are a fan of the Hades and Persephone myth, then you will absolutely love this story and I would highly recommend it and the first book to you.
March 1, 2020
Well, this was so disappointing after really loving the last book. I think because the female characters were so different. I loved Faith's snarkiness, it added to the hilarity of the book, while Max wasn't quite as funny. These books are long so it really needs something more than we got to totally keep my interest.
The book was ok but I felt it could've been better. Sometimes it was hard to follow because this Aspect was Lies so you had to work through the double-speak and it just took away from some of the romance of it all. It could be sweet but it was hard to get through.
She is writing a 3rd book and this time the god is actually in Earth's realm and not Aos so that will hopefully make the story more interesting.
The book was ok but I felt it could've been better. Sometimes it was hard to follow because this Aspect was Lies so you had to work through the double-speak and it just took away from some of the romance of it all. It could be sweet but it was hard to get through.
She is writing a 3rd book and this time the god is actually in Earth's realm and not Aos so that will hopefully make the story more interesting.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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