Thank you, Rachel Gillig, Orbit Books, and NetGalley, for this ebook in exchange for an honest review.

This was one of my most anticipated books this year. I couldn’t wait to read what happened next in this duology for Elspeth and the Nightmare. Blunder was just as dark, gothic, and inviting this time, with just as much adventure, romance, magic, mystery, and monsters of all kinds as in One Dark Window. This is the perfect read for fall with the misty forest and old castles. I enjoyed getting to know other characters more. Writing this review is challenging for multiple reasons, including not wanting to spoil anything for anyone and not being ready for this story to be over. After finishing, I had to sit with my feelings for a while after feeling so many emotions. I was sad when it finished because I didn’t want this story to end. This duology has stolen my heart along with its characters. These two will be comfort reads for me, and I will recommend it constantly. I hope we get more of this universe at some point in the future. Please check the content warnings before reading as some parts could be triggering for some readers.

It’s hard to say anything about this book without spoiling it other than YOU NEED TO READ IT. I enjoyed One Dark Window, but this sequel was even better (no small feat). Not a single dull moment was had. There was a full chapter where I had my hand to my mouth in a gasp because Rachel Gillig did the damn thing and surprised me. I chuckled, kicked my feet, and wanted to hurl my kindle across the room because every emotion was felt deeply. The whole book is written from different POVs and I loved every single one of them. What a fantastic way to round out this duology. 4.5⭐️

Thank you Rachel Gillig, Orbit books, and NetGalley for the eARC!

I was doubtful that a sequel would prove to be as good as One Dark Window (as sequels are so often let downs), but Two Twisted Crowns was everything I wanted it to be and more.

Rachel Gillig didn’t disappoint with her beautifully written continuation/ending of the story of a girl, a King, and the monster they became. This book picks up where One Dark Window leaves off and I found myself completely unable to put it down from the first page. I fell even further in love with several of the side characters as their stories were brought to the forefront (yes, I’m mainly talking about Elm). The revelations about the Shepherd King had me dying to know more with each chapter. Even the romance was pleasantly unexpected and rounded out the story so well. Huge shout out to Rachel Gillig for not only giving us a well written story, but also knowing when to end it. I feel like too many series are dragged on and on, but Two Twisted Crowns perfectly wrapped up Elspeth’s story in the most satisfying way.

I will 100% be adding this duology to my “Top Reads of 2023” list!

Wow wow wow. I knew about 15% into this book it was going to be a 5 star. And that surprised me, because I was not the biggest fan of “One Dark Window”. But when NetGalley approved my random request I figured I would give it a shot. And I am so glad they did!!!

Book 1 ends with Elspeth finally succumbing to the Nightmare, who now has total control of her body. Hauth, the major d*ck and heir of Blunder is barely alive after his encounter with the Nightmare, and the King wants revenge, but he also wants the Twin Alders Card. And the only one who knows where to find it is the Nightmare. Now Ravyn is tasked with escorting the monster inside the woman he loves through the perilous woods of Blunder to find the lost card and free his country from the mist.

This book splits up the characters from the first book, but it is done in a way that allows each character room to grow and become more defined. One of my issues with book 1 was that I didn’t connect with any of the characters. When this book was over I would give my whole heart for some of them. (Ione is my girl)


This book has 3 POVs- Ravyn, Elm, and Elspeth, who is mostly there for exploring the Shepherd King’s backstory. Elspeth has very little of her own time in this book, so if that’s important to you you may be a wee disappointed.

Now that the magic was fleshed out in book 1, we get to spend a lot more time focused on the world of Blunder, both in the present and the past. A new romance is also explored (with a little 🌶️) that I loved even more than the romance in the first book. I can’t say there were unexpected twists and turns in this book, but the stakes were plenty high, it had some really dark moments, and the characters were much more compelling than I expected.

If you liked book one, read this. If you loved book one, read this. If you were on the fence about book one (like me) read this.

Thank you to NetGalley for a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review

Thank you to NetGalley and Orbit Books for providing me with an ARC of Two Twisted Crowns. One of my most anticipated books of the year after THAT cliffhanger in One Dark Window and now one of my favorite books and duologies everrrr!! The experience of reading TTC was continuing to fall into and be immersed in this incredible, gothic world, its characters and unique magic system. It was everything I wanted the sequel to be and more: Darker, moodier, and deliciously angsty.

Be wary, be clever, be good. 5 stars!

It’s been almost 10 days since I finished this book, and I constantly find myself in a state of longing. Longing for the world of Blunder, for Raven, for Elspeth, Elm, and the Shepard King. Rachel Gillig’s "Two Twisted Crowns" was the perfect conclusion to her dark yet whimsical duology. Safe to say, I could not be happier with the way this series ended.

"Two Twisted Crowns" picks up right where "One Dark Window" left off, but this time, we get new POVs that only add depth to the story. While Elspeth takes a bit of a back seat this time around, we are given a glimpse into the minds of Elm and Ravyn - and how could we possibly not be okay with that? The bromance between the two cousins continues, the Shepard King keeps us on our toes, and we are still rooting for love (and even new love!). What I admired most about this series was Rachel Gillig’s ability to create relationships that both intertwine and defy familial bonds. It’s a true testament to strength and love, and the ability to see past one's broken pieces to find the light that lies within.

The pacing of this series was perfect, the characters were engaging, and the magical world was unlike anything I have come across. If you are looking for a fantasy that is both unique and spellbinding, I would definitely read "The Shepard King" series; it will not disappoint.

Thank you, NetGalley, for giving me early access to this book - it truly made my year to read an advance copy.

👑 Two Twisted Crowns by Rachel Gillig 👑

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Review: The conclusion to the amazing The Shepherd King duology was absolutely stunning! When I devoured One Twisted Crown, the stakes were raised for TTC and Gillig delivered and more! Two Twisted Crowns continues the adventure of Raven and Elspeth, who together with The Nightmare, are still on their quest to gather The Providence Cards and save kingdom from the mist and infection (and more 👀).

The sequel was so unpredictable, full of twists, intrigue, and moments where I shook my kindle so hard and wanted to pick up the pace to see WHAT. HAPPENED. NEXT! It really was one of those dark books, with an intricate magic system, and flawed characters that you root for and sometimes fake yell at them 😌

I’m really glad the author wrote this book with different POVs and we got to hear more from Ravyn and Elm (which quickly became one of my faves!). I really enjoyed the development of not only Ravyn and Elspeth in TTC but also Elm and Ione! ✨

If you are looking for your next great read, pick up this duology! It was one of my top reads this year!

First off thank you to NetGalley, Orbit Books, and Rachel Gillig for this arc!

Words can not express how much I love this series. The first book was incredible and Two Twisted Crowns was just wow! After the first books ending I had to start this immediately and I was hooked on the first page. This took me on a rollercoaster. I felt so many different emotions and even cried a few times.

I especially loved finding out more about the Shepherd King. Every character is unique and has their own strong qualities that make them stand out. The concept of the magic system was unique. The ending was perfection!

A story I will come back to many many times! Absolutely recommend!

Thank you to Orbit Books and NetGalley for providing me with an eARC of this book!

This is exactly what a sequel should be. It had all the elements that I loved from the first book, but took them and elevated them and added in new twists and developments. I adored the characters and relationships in the first book, so I was both incredibly excited and incredibly nervous to read this book. I really had high hopes and expectations and Rachel Gillig met all of them easily. The angst I was really hoping for, especially with the way One Dark Window ended, was there and it was everything I could've hoped for. Ravyn's absolute misery and pining over Elspeth is just. so good. And an unexpected but delightful addition to that was his banter with The Nightmare- I was shocked by how much I really enjoyed that. I do wish Elspeth hadn't taken such a backseat, but I do understand why it had to be this way and it just made me enjoy the pieces we got with her that much more.

Another unexpected delight was Elm's entire arc. I was intrigued by him in the first book, and I am so incredibly glad that this book went deeper into his character and his backstory. I had a feeling there would be some romantic stuff happening between him and another character when I read One Dark Window, and I admit I wasn't super into the idea. Not that I hated it or anything, I just wasn't interested by that subplot. But my god, did this book change my mind real quick. I would die for Elm and his plot and romance ended up sucking me in so completely, there were points when the POV would shift and all I wanted was to go back to him and see what he was up to. I'm so glad he got more time to grow in this book.

Ione, also, was another unexpected delight, in that she was also far more prominent than I expected her to be. I also really really loved her plot, although I do wish she had been a POV character and there had been more of an emphasis on her relationship with the Maiden card (particularly in regards to how she actually feels and perceives events when under its influence).

My biggest gripe with Two Twisted Crowns is the resolution. I'll not spoil anything, but suffice it to say, it wrapped up a bit too cleanly/abruptly to me. The buildup to the plot climax of the book was so so good, I was disappointed to see it end in favor for a resolution and ending that felt too quick and not as well-paced as the rest of the book had been. However, it was still enjoyable- if only all sequels were as satisfying as this one was.

Oh, this was worth the wait. And it was worth the hype. I mean I raved over One Dark Window. OHMIGOODNESS-- so good, I just didn't know if it could maintain and continue with Two Twisted Crowns. I mean sustaining that level of tension through the second book. Could it be done? Oh, it could be done. Do it by introducing more POVs that don't detract from the story but flesh out two characters that we can fall in love with while Elspeth and Ravyn work and battle to complete the deck with the Nightmare, All the threads that have been woven together in this dark gothic fantasy reveal the answers to all the mysteries and it is a dark story, a heartbreaking story, but a satisfying conclusion to one of the best duologies I have ever read. I didn't read One Dark Window until right before Two Twisted Crowns and this duology is undoubtedly one of my top five reads for 2023. I recommend reading it right now. Five Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thank you so much to NetGalley and Orbit Books for providing me with a digital ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review! I literally screamed out loud in excitement when I saw I was approved; I've never wanted to read an early copy of a story more than this one, so it was incredibly delightful to be able to read and review it.

Two Twisted Crowns picks up immediately where One Dark Window left off. The Nightmare is in control of Elspeth's body, and he's leading Ravyn, Jespyr, and a few others to the Twin Alders card. Elm is stuck at Stone with Ione, under the king's watchful eye. The two grow closer together as Elm brainstorms a way to save Ione from his father's wrath (who is waiting for Ravyn to return before getting revenge for the attack on Hauth). The perspectives switch back and forth between Elspeth (who is trapped in the Nightmare's mind), Ravyn, and Elm. I wasn't sure exactly how Rachel Gillig would handle the perspectives this time around, given Elspeth was clearly not going to be as much of a main character. The perspectives that were included were wonderful, and I really enjoyed hearing more from Elm and Ravyn!

This book was all I could hope for and more as the second part of a duology! This review may be a bit all over the place, because I just loved the story so much that it's hard to put coherent thoughts together. In short: please pick this up immediately. If you enjoyed One Dark Window, you'll adore the sequel.

I applaud the author for lining up the plot so well. It's clear that she knew exactly where she wanted the story to go, even when she was writing the first installment. The plot, characters, and overall themes of this book match up exactly with what I expected after finishing One Dark Window. Sometimes, authors lose their steam with sequels or don't know how to end their overarching story. That absolutely is not the case here; Rachel Gillig leads the reader along a seamless path, piecing together strands that have been left throughout the entire duology. It's so satisfying to read.

It's been a very long time since I've read a series in which I adore every main character. Here, it was such a joyous experience to read more about all of the central characters (except Hauth, who is truly a monstrous villain). They all felt true to what I learned about them in the first novel, but their personalities and backstories were expanded upon and fully developed. Elm is clever and kind. Ravyn is strong and loving. Ione is fierce and dazzling. Even the Nightmare is given a fascinating backstory. He's such a complex character, and I found myself rooting for him (and Elspeth). I truly cannot pick a favorite. They're all amazing!

The plot and pacing are also fantastic. The story starts off quickly and never slows down. However, it's not so fast-paced that it hinders character development. We get to spend time watching Elm and Ione learn about one another, as well as Ravyn and the Nightmare. The story is paced well enough to give room for the characters to grow together. Oh my gosh, though... the last 30% is a whirlwind (it reminded me of the end of a Brandon Sanderson book). I made the mistake of reading right before bed, and I can't tell you how painful it was to have to stop at the most exciting part and go to sleep.

I could go on and on about how much I loved this book (everything is exquisite - the beautiful writing, the sharp dialogue, the dreamy atmosphere, etc.), but I think the biggest compliment I can give is by explaining how this story made me feel. I laughed, I cried, my heart skipped beats, and by the end, I was pretty much a blubbering mess. After finishing, I read some reviews on GoodReads, and those made me start crying all over again! Two Twisted Crowns left me a disaster in the best way. It's not often that I have such an emotional reaction upon reading. I can't even place exactly what made me so emotional with this duology - I think I just cared so much about the characters and the world that it overwhelmed me.

There are a few minor complaints I want to mention, although they really didn't affect my enjoyment of the novel. The worldbuilding issues from One Dark Window are not resolved here. I was hoping to learn more about the other families in Blunder, as well as learn about the other kingdoms outside of the mist. None of that happened. However, the story is very self-contained, so I wouldn't say I missed the worldbuilding - it would have just been a welcome addition. Also, I missed Elspeth (and to a lesser extent, her relationship with Ravyn). It makes sense as to why she's less present here, but she is so integral to the overarching story that it would've been nice to have more in-depth chapters at some point from her perspective. The moments we do get between her and Ravyn are all emotional gut punches, but I wanted more. A super small complaint, as well, is that I missed the little cards with information that we got at the beginning of chapters in One Dark Window; not including something similar in Two Twisted Crowns was a missed opportunity for a sprinkle of worldbuilding. Lastly, I felt everything got resolved a teeny, tiny bit too nicely at the end. As dark as this world is, it felt as if some of the characters' actions should have had a higher cost. It's still a satisfying conclusion, though.

This isn't a complaint, but a note: I did predict every twist. However, I want to mention it, because it just shows how well the author telegraphed her story. It was so fun to pick up on the tiny details and see them become important later. I'm not sure everyone will love the predictability, but I found it to be a nice reward for paying attention.

I can't recommend this duology enough! It's a truly engaging, thoughtful gothic fantasy series. I found it to be incredibly well-done, and I know it will stick with me for long to come. I almost don't want to stop writing this review, because it means I'll be fully finished with these books. I just wish I could keep reading them and stay with the characters for even a few pages longer. I'll eagerly pick up anything else Rachel Gillig writes. If you liked One Dark Window, please go give this a read!

4.75 stars out of 5 stars, rounded up! I can't wait to reread this someday soon.

i loved the first book but wow. this just solidified my adoration for this series !!

the pacing was just amazing !! it kept me on the edge of my seat for every juicy scene playing out. this comboned with the captivating plot, i seriously felt like i breezed through this book like crazy.

and of course the atmosphere felt just as dark and beautiful as in One Dark Window. and the angst !! oh how i devoured this book !! i absolutely love the first book, but i seriously just NEED to reread this until my vision blurs.

thank you for the opportunity to read this masterpiece !

"Two Twisted Crowns" is a spellbinding sequel that wholly ensnared me, weaving a tale of consequences and redemption. You thought the FIRST one was good? Hah, this is a step above even that.

This duology is set in a fascinating, lush, dark world that has wonderful gothic vibes that I just ate up. As Elspeth grapples with the aftermath of her actions from the previous book, the search for the elusive Twin Alders card takes her and Ravyn on a perilous journey beyond the mysterious mist-shrouded forest that envelops their isolated kingdom.

Rachel Gillig deftly manipulates the narrative lens, allowing readers to delve deeper into the lives of compelling secondary characters, notably Elm and Ione, whose complexities and intriguing storylines add incredible depth to the overarching plot. With a richly developed magic system and an evocative setting steeped in captivating lore, the book maintains a firm grip on the reader, immersing them in a world that is as enchanting as it is treacherous (and violent).

The internal conflicts and struggles faced by Elspeth as she grapples with the presence of the Nightmare within her mind are portrayed with nuance, underscoring the psychological depth that infuses the narrative. Gillig's adept storytelling keeps the suspense taut, ensuring the reader is on edge throughout the enthralling journey. The bold narrative choices and intricate character development contribute to the immersive experience, culminating in a satisfying conclusion that resonates long after the final page has been turned. Seriously, I cannot stop thinking about it.

"Two Twisted Crowns" is a stunning conclusion to an exceptional duology that showcases Gillig's talent for crafting compelling and memorable fantasy tales. Can't wait to see what she writes in the future; color me impressed.

Thank you to Netgalley and Orbit for the eARC. This is an honest review.

Thank you netgalley for the arc, I will give an honest review.
I'm still processing after finishing this story.
Well, that was an epic conclusion to such a loved series .
I enjoyed the magic system and the characters growth in this book.
The pace of the story was keeping me wanting more.
It's funny dark and of course we have our romance sprinkled through the story .
If you read book 1 you will not be disappointed with the conclusion, it is so worth it
I can not recommend this enough.
I do not want to give any spoilers, but do go read this.

Two Twisted Crowns raises the stakes for Elspeth Spindle's

When we left Elspeth Spindle at the end of One Dark Window her fate looked dismal. Cursed from the start, Elspeth was resourceful and resilient almost until the end. Leaving readers to wonder. what happened to Elspeth?

Rachel Gillig brings us back almost exactly where we left off in Two Twisted Crowns, but it's certainly no fairytale, if it ever was. Weaving in more elements of fairytale, Gillig takes us back to the start of it all. Not with Elsbeth's story, but the Shepard King. What can secrets does this old tale hold? What power did this once king possess? And, how can our heroes not only save themselves, but their world? To right old wrongs, Elspeth and Ravyn will need to unite all twelve Providence Cards before it's too late. But the once difficult task is now nearly impossible.

Lushly atmospheric, richly descriptive Gillig's storytelling is spellbinding once again. The sequel and conclusion to One Dark Window gives readers answers to questions they haven't thought to ask while expanding history only hinted at in book one. Enthralling from beginning to end, Gillig casts a spell over readers through her characters and prose.

I honestly went into this not remembering everything from the first book, but once the story started flowing I was hooked again! There is just enough to help you remember what happened without feeling like you’re delving too much into the first book. The writing was haunting and beautiful, and I absolutely loved the way the story ended. Let’s talk about Ione! GIRL.BOSS.

I've never preordered a book so fast. This hit the fantasy nerve so well - and I'm super excited to have a physical copy to add to my collection. I thought the book was evenly paced, and I thoroughly enjoyed the rotation between the three characters. It didn't seem forced to do every three-chapter rotation; I always looked forward to the next part of each story.

Definitely will be rereading the series, and suggesting it as an "intro into teen fantasy."

This was such an incredible duology. I'm in complete awe. This series gave me the same coming-home feeling that ACOTAR gave me when I first read it, but I think the writing and story here are more mature. The first book centers on Elspeth and her struggles with the infection in her blood. I was wary of book 2, as I think many were, because it seemed that Elspeth would take a backseat in this second novel. She did, but most certainly not in the way I thought.

This book centers more on Elm, who had a supporting role in the first book, but didn't really stand out to me as a character. Here, he really comes into his own. I enjoyed all the backstory we got, on everything from the Rowan family tree to the Shepherd King, and I loved learning more about Elm and his story. I didn't think I could possibly love this book more than the first one, but I think I do. The characters have such depth, the mythology and history is so rich, the magic system so different and unique, that I couldn't help but fall in love with this story all over again. I also appreciated the touch of spice in this novel. I'm not a die-hard spice reader, but if there's just the right amount, coupled with a great story and great character development, I'm a huge fan. This was just right for me. The ending tied up the story nicely and in an incredibly satisfying way. I was a little worried over how Gillig could finish this story in just two books, but she pulled it off with flying colors. If you're a fan of romantasy, fantasy, or gothic stories, this is such an amazing duology to read. I really can't recommend it enough!

Two Twisted Crowns is a decent sequel. Unfortunately, it wasn't as good as One Dark Window.

While I expected Elspeth to not be as present in the story due to how book one ended, she is barely in it. Her POV chapters are dedicated to learning more about the Shepherd King, so she's not even the main character there. I wish we got more of her throughout the book.

Admittedly, multiple point of view stories aren't usually my thing because there's always one that's more interesting than the others, and one always brings the pacing down. This is true here. I didn't mind Elm and Ione's romance, but I could've done without it, especially when we cut away from Ravyn and The Sheperd King hunting down the Twin Alders to Elm and Ione's court scenes.

A big thanks to NetGalley and Orbit Books for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

Ok, I will admit. On the first read, I didn't quite enjoy this series. But then it blew up on BookTok, I read it again, and had a change of heart. And I'm super glad I requested a copy of this one.

Two Twisted Crowns by Rachel Gillig is a fantasy novel that is the sequel to One Dark Window. Which is about Elspeth who needs a monster, but the monster might be her. Elspeth Spindle needs more than luck to stay safe in the eerie, mist-locked kingdom of Blunder—she needs a monster. She calls him the Nightmare, an ancient, mercurial spirit trapped in her head. He protects her. He keeps her secrets. But nothing comes for free, especially magic. When Elspeth meets a mysterious highwayman on the forest road, her life takes a drastic turn. Thrust into a world of shadow and deception, she joins a dangerous quest to cure Blunder from the dark magic infecting it. And the highwayman? He just so happens to be the King’s nephew, Captain of the most dangerous men in Blunder…and guilty of high treason. Together they must gather twelve Providence Cards—the keys to the cure. But as the stakes heighten and their undeniable attraction intensifies, Elspeth is forced to face her darkest secret yet: the Nightmare is slowly taking over her mind. And she might not be able to stop him.

..............I have been screaming for quite a while over this book......And I will not elaborate on it. Goodnight.