Two Twisted Crowns picks up where One Dark Window ended, rejoining Elspeth as she finally pays the price for her magic use. Ravyn is tragically late to save Elspeth and the two must reckon with how to free themselves from their circumstances. Ione and Elm have a larger role to play in this sequel, which involves hunting for magical cards and navigating treacherous politics. As time begins to run out, Elspeth and her friends must decide how far they will go to save the kingdom and themselves. 

I really enjoyed Two Twisted Crowns! It is a very satisfying sequel that contains the delightful atmosphere and creative characters from book one. I particularly loved Elspeth and Ione’s journeys and how in some ways they mirrored each other- both fighting for freedom from magic that comes with a terrible price. Ravyn and Elspeth have wonderful chemistry and I loved how they found their way back to each other. The Nightmare was one of my surprise favorite characters! His dry and witty sense of humor was hilarious. I enjoyed learning about his past and why he made some of his unfathomable choices. Ione and Elm’s relationship deepened as they searched for Ione’s card and led to some fantastic scenes and chemistry between them. 

In this duology, magic always comes with a price that will be collected at the worst possible time. The magic system that Rachel Gillig has designed is truly ornate and beautifully detailed. I enjoyed this story of dreams, nightmares, action-packed adventures, and romance against all odds. I would highly recommend The Shepherd King duology, especially for fans of Hannah Whitten, Ava Reid, and Allison Saft. I can’t wait to see what Rachel Gillig writes next! 

Thank you so much to Rachel Gillig, Orbit Books, and Netgalley for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.