Two years after fleeing the enslavement of Kadeshian general, General Yada, Rae Salvar does all she can to survive the besieged city of Yekel.
While her work at the outer wall and business selling scarves keep her from poverty, her secret identity as the Crimson Cord, a street fighter in Yekel's Dark Market, is what Rae enjoys the most. But when General Yada threatens Rae and demands she finds the recently escaped Seer, Devora Medee, Rae is desperate to do anything to locate the Seer and give her over to the general and Kadesh.
However, a mysterious fighter enters the Dark Market and defeats Rae. With her undefeated title ruined and her life crumbling around her, Rae begins to wonder if the path she's on will lead to her freedom from Kadesh or her destruction.
V. Romas Burton grew up bouncing up and down the East Coast where she wrote her first story about magical ponies at age seven. Years later, after studying government and earning an M.A. in Theological Studies, V. Romas Burton realized something even bigger was calling out to her--stories that contained great adventures and encouraging messages. When she's not writing, she's taking care of her three rambunctious sons. You can find future updates and news on her website: www.vromasburton.com
Justified is the second installment of The Legacy Chapters series, following book one, Fortified. I read Fortified earlier in the year, and I did enjoy it. But, I enjoyed Justified even more! The books are little-to-no-magic fantasy, but there are curses and gifts in the fictional world. This New Adult series, specifically Justified, is a mix of action, clean romance, coming-of-age, and biblical themes. Plus, there are sprinkles of fairytales with an evil witch and a shapeshifting curse.
Justified primarily follows Rae, a young woman who live is a town governed by an enemy nation. When first invaded, Rae disguised as many young women and girls as she could as boys and sent them away. However, her heroic actions did not give her enough time to get herself to safety. She was forced into life as a se* slave at the corrupted temple. In order to purchase her freedom, Rae disguised herself and entered in illegal street fighting matches to earn funds. Since buying her own freedom, she continues to fight to purchase freedom for other women.
Book one's storyline connects to book two as Nadia, who grew up with Rae, returns. Through Nadia, Rae learns the fugitive Seer (Devora) is near, and she plans to turn the Seer into the corrupt General who makes her life, and anyone's life he crosses path with, miserable. Rae, understandably bitter and angry with the trauma she has been forced to endure, has no qualms with finding the Seer and reporting her to the General, even if the Seer is friends with Nadia. But when Rae crosses path with a giant-like man who is the first person to ever beat her in a fight, she is placed on a path that shows her the world is less black-and-white than she first believed.
Readers should know that the forced se* is a big component of the plot, and it, along with the traumatic experiences it created and continues to create, is a huge factor in Rae's identity and worldview. I appreciate how the author refrains from graphic descriptions, and I think the topic of trafficking is approached tactfully and in a manner to stir discussion about this very real-world issue. Further, I appreciate how the series is for a new adult rather than young adult audience. Though se* assault is very real, and the author doesn't get graphic in descriptions of acts of assault, I think it may be too much for the younger end of the YA spectrum (14/15).
My favorite part of the book, hands down, is the romance. The romance is sweet and it illustrates that everyone is worthy of authentic love, no matter their past. It is a wonderful reflection, and reminder, of Christ's love for each and every person---no matter their choices or the choices forced upon them. I also love the lesson that growth is always possible; we are never broken though we all need to be remade from time to time. In addition, it reminds readers that sincere love does not rely on physical acts.
Overall, I recommend this low-magic fantasy to both new adult and adult readers who are looking for stories with compelling and sympathetic characters, a sweet romance, and real-life takeaways. I won't give details because of spoilers but this book contains my new favorite OTP!
*I received an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book. I am leaving a review of my own volition, and all thoughts and opinions are my own.*
After Fortified’s ending, I’ve been dying for this sequel. It did not disappoint! Burton has done a wonderful job weaving together multiple threads to create a story full of intrigue and action. I’m left on the edge of my seat again.
Picking up after the shocking events at the end of Fortified, Justified is a soulful, classic fantasy that delivers the unashamed biblical themes that I've come to expect from a V. Romas Burton book. While the overarching plot continues with beloved characters, this story also introduces new characters in a meaningful romance that will find a place in your heart. Once again I was left thrilled by the twist at the end and cannot wait to get my hands on the next book!
This book was so good! Dark in all the right places, but with enough light and hope to balance it out! And the ending/set up for the next book was intense. I love it, and yes, I know, this is a brand new book, but I already can't wait for the next one.
reread fortified before jumping into this book and y’all i am shooketh.
Just like Fortified… It was amazing… I was so invested in fact that I messaged Ms.Burton just to tell her how shooketh I was 😂
I was a One shot girl and a Captain Blake girl in book 1… and well that didn’t change still am. But like there was a plot twist I did not see coming and you will just have to read the book to understand.
And yea I am babbling, but that is just what I do when I am in awe of talent and have just finished a book that broke me in so many ways that only a third book could bring my broken pieces together.
So until then I remain amazed and shook.
I Definitely recommend both Fortified and Justified if you like fantasy/fighting/ plot twists / literally something in it for everyone
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
An incredible of continuation of V. Romas Burton's Legacy Chapters Series. I enjoyed the further development of the characters I loved in Fortified and the introduction of new characters like Rae. Burtons intricate plot kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time. Though this story features darker themes than its predecessor, it’s not graphic. Burton did not disappoint. I absolutely loved this rollercoaster of a book and can’t wait for what’s to come. 10/10 I would recommend for any dystopian lovers. ♥️ 👑
Justified was a beautiful story about grace and redemption. I loved how Burton dove into hard topics of human trafficking and finding forgiveness. Rae is such a strong character, and she's definitely one of my favorites in the Legacy Chapters.
This book had some good parts but was Nothing like the first book.
And sadly, I have to say I will be leaving this series and author. The first book had Biblical things but the second one got mystical and I’m worried about the new one.
Joy comes in the morning, but Rae doesn't know it yet... This was a fantastic sequel to Fortified! Although I liked the first one, I think I enjoyed this one more. That's because of Rae, the main character. Her heartbreak and struggles with "beasts" of envy, wrath, and fear were so relatable. Rae's character is revealed piece by piece, and it is a beautiful story to read. Coming alongside her is Nadia, Devora, Matthias, and One Shot. Devora was her usual assertive self, and it was nice to see her again and get a little behind the scenes with Matthias. One Shot was the most surprising new character added to the cast. His history and true traits were revealed, and I found myself rooting for his romance with Rae throughout the story. As for the plot itself, it wasn't necessarily action packed (though there are plenty of fights and suspense). The twisting and turning as secrets were revealed and relationships were tested was enough to keep me glued to the page. General Yada definitely made a creepy antagonist as his lustful, predatory actions towards Rae intensified the plot. Speaking of creepy, there is a demonic element in this book, where an old hag steals stoles using a statue of a goddess. However, more powerful is the counter to evil: Tunri, the name that Burton uses for the Christian God. Tunri helps Rae break the chains around her heart, and his light shines in the midst of the darkness. The spiritual message in this book is strong, along with an allusion to one of my favorite Bible stories. Overall, this is a fantastic story and well worth reading! Content Warnings: Language: None Alcohol/Drug/Gambling Content: Drugs are used to get in touch with the demonic goddess, Pahga. They are portrayed negatively. There is a character who has a gambling problem. Sexual Content [spoilers]: Rae worked at the Temple of Pahga as a sex slave. General Yada was her primary "client," and his predatory nature may trigger some people. Although the reader does not get any explicit view of what Rae has experienced, it is obvious as she struggles with physical touch. The most we find out about this is more an exit scene where Rae is crying in a bedroom after a man leaves, and then tries to cut herself out of depression. A special character comes alongside her to free her from it. Rae is almost raped and a person saves her just in time. Violent Content: Rae fights as the Crimson Cord at an Underground Arena. She does this to earn money to free some of the Temple priestesses/sex slaves. However, this also means she associates with some terrible men, and often gives in to her "Beast of Rage" to beat them up. The fights are described Sherlock Holmes style as she thinks about how to disable her opponents. That being said, she does not kill them, and there isn't blood/guts shown. One Shot's background is also reviewed and [spoilers] he killed his sister's rapists. War is described but not gone into detail. Rae headbutts General Yada, resulting in bruising on his face. He is [spoilers] crushed by the statue of Pahga.
Justified is book two in the Legacy chapters, and it’s V’s best book yet! Partially inspired by the Biblical story of Rahab, Justified deals with some hard themes, but ultimately is a story of hope and redemption.
If you’ve already read book one, you’ll still get to see Devora and Matthias, but this book focuses more on Rae, a girl with a dark past who’s leading a double life – by day, she sells colorful scarves and bakes, but by night, she’s a street fighter in the illegal Dark Market.
The plot is well-paced and character-driven. The characters are the strongest aspect of the book. Rae has a very strong and touching character arc, and I loved Master Monham. There’s not as much magic in this book, but there are hints, plus some interesting hints toward an evil coming in book three. 👀
As for the writing, I think this is the strongest of V’s books yet. Previous books I felt had a not uncommon tendency toward strange word choices, but that is not true for this book.
If you’re a fan of Christian fantasy, this is a series to check out!
1. One Shot I was quite intrigued by this surprisingly gentle giant in Fortified, so I was thrilled he got a larger role in Justified! Such a humble, skilled, loyal guy with a great sense of humor that sneaks through every once in a while :)
2. The Setting Burton has an immersive writing style that vividly brings the setting to life. By the end, I felt like I could walk the streets of Yekel with familiarity, hear the bustle of the marketplace, and taste Rae's amazing orange blossoms - yum!
3. Devora While she wasn't the primary focus of this book, my girl Devora was back! It was so satisfying to see her acting with confidence, courage, and wisdom after all she went through in Fortified. I can't wait to see where her journey leads next!
Justified is a powerful story with some dark moments but so much light and hope. If you enjoyed Fortified, don't miss this epic second installment!
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.*
Justified opens where Book 1, Fortified, left off; however instead of being in Devora’s head, we are immediately introduced to a new character, Rae, Nadia’s friend prior to her time at the Fortress.
Burton takes us on yet another whirl-wind adventure. But this one includes back allies, a black market fighting arena, and a cursed temple.
While we do get to see our favorites from Book 1 (Matthias and Devora), Burton focuses on reforming the souls of Rae and One-Shot. Both have pasts they are trying to forget and atone for; they make you, the reader, reflect and ponder your own inner monologues.
They make you smile at their conversations and beg each of them to stop being foolish and just be honest with the other.
Burton keeps you on your toes, predicting what will happen next. If that weren’t enough, she’ll leave you on a cliff-hanger. So make sure you have Book 3, Sanctified, ready to go so you don’t miss any time in finishing this trilogy.
Justified was an amazing continuation of V. Romas Burton’s the Legacy Chapters. Not only were our favorite characters from the first book back but the book had amazing new characters too! Our main character Rae is an amazing new edition to this series! We get to see Rae go from trying to seek revenge and feeling unworthy of love to feeling redeemed, that God and others can love her, and that she can love herself! This is a great message that hits hard and real topics encountered in life, while being wonderfully written.
This story delves into some tough issues in a unique fantasy world. Rae is gritty and cares deeply for those she loves (sometimes to the detriment of caring for herself), but she also possesses a deep brokenness that she struggles with. Her arc was satisfying, and I was pleased to see how the characters from Book 1 were woven into the story. There were some parts that moved a bit slower than I wanted, but overall, a really great read that I think older teens would enjoy!
I was happy to pick up the sequel to V. Romas Burton's Fortified. This is a fantasy novel inspired by the biblical story of Rahab. I enjoyed the world in this book and the characters. Rae, our main character, has a wonderful growth arc, and I loved her path to healing. Beloved characters from book 1 return, including Devorah, whose story isn't finished yet. I look forward to discovering what will happen with her in the next book.
Justified manages to be intense and sweet (sometimes literally) and honest to both the dark and light throughout. The story doesn’t shy away from its darker realities, but it strives for hope every step of the way. Burton’s characters new and familiar are vivid and relatable. Their struggles are poignant and their joy feels real. The Legacy Chapters is a thoroughly enjoyable read, and the ending of this book, just like the first, leaves you excited for more.
Burton has written a great follow-up to Fortified. Justified follows a new main character, Rae, (also known as the fighter the Crimson Cord) as she journeys from trauma to trust. Former favorite characters show up, and from the ending, the reader knows there's more to come in this series! :-) I'm interested to see how the author will tie everything up.
"Whatever happened to you in the past, you're not ruined, you just need to be remade. - Justified.
I love the mutiple POVs and the powerful story of redemption! It reminds me that God will always pursue us, even when we want nothing to do with Him! There is a plot twist near the end that I think is really cheesy. Overall was a pretty good book!
This story of two broken souls seeking forgiveness for their past and hoping for a brighter future is both beautiful and moving! Inspired by the biblical character, Rahab, Justified is a story for lovers of fantasy, action, and romance!
The cliff hanger was so unfair but I loved this book!! I’m running to go read the last book! Your writing is so engaging and the stories pull you in for a wild ride!
Prepare for another action-filled installment in this amazing series! Book 2 easily lives up to book 1—dare I say it might be even better?
We meet new characters in this book but also get to journey with our old favorites. And did someone ask for romance? *swoon* I love watching the slow-burn romance unfold in a story, and this one doesn't disappoint!
Romas' writing style is flawless and allows the reader to become immersed in the world of The Legacy Chapters. The characters are relatable and the world-building welcomes the reader to dive into this fantasy world!
Highly recommended for those looking for clean, NA fantasy reads!
I Don't talk about faith much in my reviews. But I feel like leaving my faith outside of this book review does the book a disservice. I love books that challenge you and makes you think, this book takes you on an emotional path as the main character questions Her beliefs and ask the question why? why did this happen? This author writes with her whole heart and you can see it on the pages. I am trying not to throw out spoilers which is so hard on a second book. I said in my review of the first book fortified that I loved the world building and this book takes it up a notch the author has a way of making you feel you are sitting at the same table as the characters. Each scene is crafted with love and care to bring you on this journey . The characters are a solid team and have grown in such a short time and I found the additions to this group are wonderfully complex and a welcome addition. The color red means sacrifice; that says so much about the Character Rae. I love that the author made this her signature color and the color for her Redemption. I love seeing a strong faith message in a book that is not forced but is genuine. I am now impatiently waiting for book three to release in 2025. So far this is the best book I have read this year...... Last year was Fortified and I will say it is going to take something Amazing to knock this book off my top read of the year!!!!
Justified is a fantastic sequel to Fortifed. Rae is just as much of a complex powerhouse as Devora. Devora is in the story, but this is Rae’s tale. It’s another story of growth, which I love. This time though it’s about finding confidence in who you are and trusting yourself. Rae has a sordid past and does not believe she is worthy of happiness, but she still does her best in her way to help others find theirs. There is a couple I ship and I may ship them more than Devora and her guy :P I love the redemption of this book. The battles Rae faces that are on the inside, I believe everyone can relate to. I’m going to start needing recipes at the end of Burton’s books if she keeps highlighting these amazing-sounding desserts. I need some of Rae’s Orange Blossom Rolls! V. Romas Burton has done a great job in her world building. Creating different cultures and keeping it feeling natural. I chuckled and I cried and I absolutely loved the ending!
This book isn’t just a good adventure with romance, action, and treachery, but it is a book that speaks messages to heal wounds and sooth hearts.
I cannot wait for the next installment in The Legacy Chapters!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This was a great continuation of book 1 Though book 1 was better in my opinion, it was nice to revisit this story and figure out where everyone is! Also One shot X Rae are so cute!! I’m very excited for book 3 when it comes out!