uh, okay, I have quite a bit to say as someone who gave One Dark Window 5 stars...

This was not my favorite sequel. The story felt so jumbled as compared to the singular POV of Elsbeth in book one to having multiple POVs in book two. The timeline felt a little off because we could go through the events in one POV, then jump back in time and relive the same events in the POV of another character that then led to to where we just saw them in the previous chapter? I made the pacing of the book go all over the place and felt really messy. I did enjoy the beginning and then ending, but I feel like had some chapters been rearranged this would make for a much more seamless read. There were also some plot points that were driven home mmuullttiippllee times, like okay, we get it, we are hunting for the Twin Alders card...

Overall this was a 3.5 star read for me. it was a... fine read?

Thank you to Netgalley and Orbit books for this ARC!

I am honestly close to tears with finishing this book with this being one of my most anticipated reads of the year. Rachel Gillig didn't disappoint and has become a new favorite author. As a lot of sequels are I feared it wouldn't be as good as the first book but I have to say this was better than the first.

We follow Elspeth who has finally been taking over by the Nightmare, Hauth is nearly dead but still alive, Ravyn is trying to get Elspeth back, Elm doesn't want to be king, and Ione is still under the maiden card. This was a whirlwind of emotions and I was freaking out wandering where this was going to happen. Some of my favorite scenes were getting the real name of the Shepard King and the backstory of his life. You start to fall in with the Shepard King. The love that Ravyn has for Elspeth is incredible and I was rooting for them every step of the way.

I literally was rocking back and forth at the end of the climax and I just was like WHAT IS GOING TO HAPPEN but I couldn't ask for a better ending.

"Two Twisted Crowns" by Rachel Gillig is the enchanting conclusion to The Shepherd King series, and it left me utterly captivated from start to finish. As someone who cherished "One Dark Window" so deeply, I approached this final installment with a mix of excitement and trepidation. I hate to admit it, but I was certain that there was no way Gillig could possibly wrap up the story in a way that would leave readers satisfied. I mean, there are very few authors in this world who could do such a tremendous task.

Here I am though....eating my own doubts....because I can now say with absolute certainty that Gillig not only wrapped up this series perfectly...I may have also liked it more (gasp!) than "One Dark Window."

The true magic of "Two Twisted Crowns" lies in its ability give readers a deeper understanding of the supporting characters from "One Dark Window", and the fact that Gillig offers readers a beautifully crafted conclusion that is nothing short of perfect. All the characters we grew to love in the first book, Elspeth, Ravyn, The Nightmare, Elm, Ione, are all given the closure they deserve. It's rare to find a series that wraps up with such grace and completeness, and Gillig has certainly delivered on that front.

One of the most enchanting aspects of Gillig's writing is her ability to create a dark gothic setting that feels so vivid and immersive that it's as if readers have stepped through a secret portal into the kingdom of Blunder. I am not kidding when I say that you can practically feel the mist settling on their skin and taste the salt in the air. It's a testament to Gillig's talent that her world-building is so immersive that it becomes an integral part of the reading experience, adding depth and atmosphere to the story.

But it's not just the setting that's magical; the entire story is infused with a sense of enchantment. The characters' journeys are emotionally resonant, and the plot unfolds with a masterful touch that keeps you turning the pages with bated breath. I could not read this fast enough. The book has everything we all loved in "One Dark Window," but somehow Gillig has deepened our ties to the story by giving us more from the perspective of Ione and Elm. Whereas in One Dark Window, I didn't really care for Ione - I found myself resonating more with her. I'm glad that Gillig took this approach rather than just giving us Ravyn and Elspeth/The Nightmare. It rounded out The Shepherd King story in a way that wouldn't have been possible without these different views.

This is a magnificent conclusion to The Shepherd King series and will linger in my heart for a long time to come, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone seeking a magical and beautifully crafted story - so much so that I'm forcing my book club to read the series as a whole. :)

I can't help but give it the highest praise. Bravo, Rachel Gillig, for a captivating and unforgettable series that will remain etched in my memory.

Wow! This book was so beautifully written. I loved One Dark Window so much and had high hopes and expectations for its conclusion and I was not disappointed! Rachel Giillig wrote the absolute perfect conclusion. The whole story is just stunning. The world she let us into with it’s strange magic and wonderful characters is perfect and I didn’t want to leave. Thank you so much for letting me have this ARC, I cannot wait to reread this whole story over and over again!

I really enjoyed the sequel, and I enjoyed the first book as well. If I teach a class one day about fantasy literature, I would love to teach the series. I think that it is a very unique series and I love the magic system.

the benefit of getting an arc of an anticipated sequel is that you get an arc of an anticipated sequel.
the cost of getting an arc of an anticipated sequel is you suffer in silence. all alone. for weeks.

yes, I am being melodramatic. did I have a marvelous time? quite so, until, of course, the plot events caused me severe nervous system dysregulation (at one point I practically hyperventilated and made myself gulp down an entire glass of ice water).

to put it frankly and spoiler-free, this was a delicious, riveting ending to a one-of-a-kind duology, filled with adventure, court politics, gothic imagery, high stakes, excellent character development, and a clever magic system. it exceeded my expectations. truly well done.

thank you to orbit books for the arc

✦ 5 stars

Thank you to NetGalley and Rachel Gillig for an ebook in exchange for an honest review!

Rating 5/5

WOW! I am so honored to have received this arc. It was incredible! The writing was amazing, kept me hooked and interested the whole time. Obsessed is an understatement!

After reading One Dark Window earlier this year, Two Twisted Crowns was at the top of my anticipated reads for 2023. I was swept away by the rich history aspect and the originality of the story and magic system. It was unlike anything I had read before! Book two of The Shepherd King Duology picked up right where the first left off. In this epic conclusion to the story of Elspeth and the Nightmare, we uncover more secrets, explore hidden parts of Blunder, and race against the clock to lift the mist and cure the kingdom of its infection. In Two Twisted Crowns we get multiple POVs and dive deeper into the minds and histories of some of our favorite side characters. The Nightmare's witty remarks, sarcasm and rhymes were one of the many highlights. Two Twisted Crowns story was captivating and gave me the much needed closure to one of my very favorite books.

What a satisfying conclusion to the twisty journey of Elspeth and the Nightmare. (!!!!!!!!!!!!) It's so rare for a duet to end in a way that feels conclusive, but I really felt like every question was answered and we got all of the history we could've asked for. I LOVED this book.

“Be wary. Be clever. Be good.”

This was an incredible, enchanting, and moving conclusion to a wonderfully unique and gothic atmospheric fantasy duology. Two Twisted Crowns picks up immediately where One Dark Window left off and things are bleak as the mist in Blunder.

Elspeth has succumbed to her degeneration, letting the Nightmare take over her body and mind. Ravyn is desolate, fearing he has lost Elspeth forever, but is still hopeful that he can find the last Providence card in order to unite the deck and save Emory and Blunder. However, the Solstice is fast approaching, and the Rowan King is out for blood. Meanwhile, the Nightmare has returned, harboring five hundred years of anger and wrath and seeking his own revenge.

I absolutely adored this book! Two Twisted Crowns was the perfect ending to this incredibly enthralling duology. I loved the unique magic system with the Providence Cards, the rich history and world-building of Blunder, and the creepy, gothic vibes. Our characters are flawed, they have secrets and are hesitant to open themselves up, yet are learning to grow and lean on each other.

I especially loved the different character point of views in this second book. While One Dark Window was primarily in Elspeth’s POV, in Two Twisted Crowns we also have chapters from Ravyn and Elm. This change was very effective as we get to experience the story from multiple perspectives and personalities, and also helped moved the story forward as our characters are split up and in different locations. I especially loved Elm’s chapters, and it was wonderful to dive a little deeper into his character. Elm projects a confident and humorous exterior that hides deep hurts, but he is also clever and refreshing to read. I also loved seeing things from Ravyn’s perspective, and how he wants to not only save his brother and Elspeth, but also Blunder itself. While we “see” less of Elspeth in this second book, it makes sense given the story progression, and her POV chapters give us more insight into The Shepherd King and the history and how the cards came to be. I especially loved this element, as I think it helped to draw the past and present together, leading us to a fantastic conclusion.

One Dark Window and Two Twisted Crowns are among my favorite reads for 2023, and together are one of the best-written fantasy duologies I have read. I absolutely loved every minute of it!

Thank you to NetGalley and Orbit Books for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.

God bless my former student and current friend Talia for forcing me to read One Dark Window because Two Twisted Crowns - the second in this fantasy duology - was so incredible that I kept stopping reading so that it wouldn’t end too soon but also couldn’t put it down. It comes out next month, so there is plenty of time to read the first installment before you dive in. My summary below will have a couple of spoilers for One Dark Window since it sets the scene, so be careful if you haven’t read it!

In the conclusion of the story, Ravyn has to travel with the Nightmare - with Elspeth hidden in the recesses of their shared brain - to find the Twin Alders card to lift the mist and save Blunder and his brother. At the same time, Prince Elm and Elspeth’s cousin Ionne are trying to bide time at the palace, keeping her safe from his father and incapacitated brother. The points of view switch back and forth between the search party in the woods and the couple at the palace, building tension throughout because truly I didn’t think everyone was going to be able to save themselves / each other. The love between Ravyn and Elspeth grows as much as it can with her body being controlled by the nightmare, but the blossoming physical and emotional relationship between Elm and Ionne was so beautiful.

Truly if you like fantasy, you HAVE to read this duet. It’s SO beautiful, the world building is immersive in a way that also made sense. The relationships between friends, family, and lovers have depth and aren’t cliched and I cared about every single character so so much. This may be my fave fantasy series ever and I need every single person to read it so we can talk about it!!!

<b><i>"Be wary, Be Clever, Be good." </i></b>

5 ⭐️
1.5 🌶️
I was over the moon to see the email from NetGalley telling me I was approved for an eARC. I cannot stress how much I loved One Dark Window - truly one of my favorite reads of 2023 and the end of The Shepard King duology does not disappoint.

Two Twisted Crowns seamlessly picks up at the end of One Dark Window. To avoid spoilers, all I will say is the we shift from the single POV of Elspeth to some additional POVs from the cast of returning main character from the last one. We get a better look into Elm's story and the aftermath of what happened at Spindle House at the end of One Dark Window. Elm's POV reasserted how charming, thoughtful and well developped he was as a character.

The plot really focused on three major points: finding the Twin Alders Providence Card, Elspeth and the Nightmare's mind-state, and the things happening at Stone. They all progress decently that it wasn't a chore to leave one to jump to another plot point. Personally, I loved the storyline relating Elspeth and The Nightmare's history, it was the ultimate shining star of the story for me. The breadcrumbs from book one start to fall into place with every "flashback" or scene Elspeth gets to see from The Nightmare's eyes.

Twisted, Gothic Setting
Flashbacks
High stakes action
Multi-POV, large cast characters
Magical items & intricate Magic System

If you love an eerie, gothic romantic fantasy, a large cast of characters, revenge and creative, lyrical writing, you will LOVE this. This is a phenomenal crescendo to The Shepard King duology by Rachel Gillig.
Two Twisted Crowns publishes October 17, 2023, you will not regret reading this.!

Thank you to Orbit Books and NetGalley for this digital galley in return for my honest review.

4.5⭐️
This sequel absolutely delivered on the eerie, mysterious and dark atmosphere I loved in One Dark Window. It had the unique magic system we were captivated by, but seemed to incorporate more classical fairytale elements, which contributed to the tense and mysterious tone. The alternating POVs made it very difficult to put down, as each plot surged forward and was interrupted by the other. I initially didn’t care for Ione and Elm’s POV as I didn’t love them in the first book, but by the end I was enraptured, and am now in love with Renelm Littlespoon Rowan.

There were times I wish the story was more immersive, namely the action scenes (especially in the forest). I wanted to feel completely immersed in the drama and tension, especially because the narrative holds so much suspense. But I felt they moved a bit too quickly for me to be completely swept up.

It also felt a bit predictable, like the clues were a bit too obvious and repetitive, making the reveals less powerful.

Overall, I thought this was a great conclusion to the duology: with the same spooky dark atmosphere, and with a relentless and captivating plot.

Wow, honestly all I can say is wow 🤌🏻
Sometimes with duologies one book is better than the other. That was NOT the case with this one. They were both phenomenal.
I absolutely loved that there were multiple POVs this time around and we got to see another side to Ione.
The spice this time had me gasping!!!! “Beg me” 🧎‍♀️

I said it before I’ll say it again, it’s beautiful, dark and full of magic. If this is the vibe you like you need to read these! The way the author describes is beautiful. It should be on everyone’s fall TBR!

You have time to read the first before this one releases on October 19th!

Thank you so so much for the ARC! 🍂🍁🖤

Trees...

Two Twisted Crowns was everything I wanted from One Dark Window and more! I am over the moon about how perfectly it followed up and concluded our story in Blunder. The writing continued to be atmospheric and crafted with care! Sometimes prose that tries to be clever can end up reading confusing or too much but Rachel definitely has a way with words. The mist got creepier, the trees came alive, and the stakes with the cards became higher.

We pick up a few days after the events at the end of One Dark Window with some new character POVs. I was curious about how the big thing that happened at the end of ODW would be handled regarding POV, but Rachel wove this masterfully and it felt so right. Elm and The Nightmare stole the show for me in ODW and I was thrilled to see them shine here. The Mist, the Magic, and the Spirit all felt just a tiny bit out of reach for me throughout book one but the way it was all built upon and came together in TTC was satisfying!

I have noticed recently that I am begging for MMC with a personality other than being mysterious and brooding. I want wit, I want snark, I want SOMETHING and Elm gave me that. Watching him grow and stand up to his abusers and do the right thing even when it was difficult or he was scared, made me so proud. The tension with Ione had me fanning myself (I am a sucker for a game with a kiss as a wager)! Speaking of Ione, my heart shattered so many times for her. I do not think our story would have had the same ending without the bravery of Ione and Elm together. They really needed each other to lean on at Stone. At first, I was iffy about everyone being separated but it worked out in the best way to see both storylines unfold.

The uniqueness of the Providence Cards continued and was built upon. I really enjoyed learning more about them and their history and the idea of balance throughout the story. It was really intriguing how a card that was mostly considered useless or for women held a secret for so long. It reminded me of the way there's this kind of unspoken knowledge between women about the dangers of simply existing. It seems to fill a need that might be sorely needed for women who might be subject to using this card against possible abuse. It was very cleverly hidden.

The Nightmare/Shepherd King! I am his biggest fan! His banter had me laughing out loud! This man has been waiting for 500 years and has absolutely no more forks to give other than getting done what needs to be done. My big ole grumpy pants! His and Elspeth's POVs were handled perfectly and I loved the way we caught glimpses of his memory to learn the history of everything flowed nicely, though it was pretty heartbreaking at times. It's clear that he has many regrets and wants to try to right wrongs, that even actions with seemingly altruistic intentions can have devastating consequences or can go too far. The fatherly love he felt for Elspeth truly broke me and left me in tears.

There was not a single page wasted and the pacing was *chef's kiss*. I could not put this down! This whole book will have you on the edge of your seat. The stakes felt high, the dangers felt real, and our villains were villainous. This conclusion solidified this duology as a favorite for me! I cannot wait to read more stories from Rachel!


Big thanks to NetGalley, Orbit, and Rachel Gillig for the eARC! I actually squealed when I got my email!

I really enjoyed TTC. I was nervous that so much had happened in book 1 that such a short book 2 wouldn’t be long enough to tie up every loose end. But it was marvelously. I ended every moment of it. It’s so refreshing to read a book that is pure plot and every chapter and interaction pushes the book forward. I loved all the characters and the ending was so satisfying.

What do you even say about this masterpiece? The story- immaculate. The love- so realistic. The ending- fantastic! Wow, I am so thankful to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.

The details: I really liked the multiple POV here- I think that Gillig's choices were spot on for keeping the story engaging and things moving forward. I found as soon as I started thinking about another character we were back to the POV I was missing. The intimate scenes were incredibly well done with a lot of emotional depth, which I appreciated. I think that the storylines were tied together well and made sense. Like many others have mentioned, the magic system is incredible and so unique, it would be hard to find an equal comparison! Overall, this series has been a favorite of mine this year.

I will certainly be adding Rachel Gillig to my auto buy author's list. I can't wait to see what she does next.

Wow! I've lost my words for how amazing this duology is! I've never read a story like one dark window and two twisted crowns.

Rachel Gillig created a world that is both memorizing, enticing, and incredibly well written with those Gothic elements that bring the story together beautifully.

I love the card elements in the book and the bad and good that came from them.

Not to mention the characters that come to life in this story. I loved having POVs from Rayvn, Elspeth, Shephard King, Ione, and Elm. Each of their sides drew you in deeper into the world.

Again, I am blown away by this duology, and I am excited to read it again.

Read this if you like
♡Gothic Fantasy
♡ Multi POVs
♡Captivating characters
♡Family ties and found family
♡Light romance


Overall ☆☆☆☆☆/5
Spice 🌶/ 5 (there is romance, but it's not the main plot)

A perfect follow up and conclusion to One Dark Window. I love everything about this duology. From the storyline, the atmosphere, the characters, the emotional scenes. We get another romance storyline, and it was delicious. I’m already looking forward to rereading.

My review for One Dark Window starts with “do you ever have trouble finding words to describe your favourite book…”
And honestly, the best thing I can say for Two Twisted Crowns is that it exceeded my expectations and has now bumped this into the category of my Favourite Duology. Sometimes the sequel fails to live up to the first, but that’s not the case here.

I was absolutely THRILLED to have Elms point of view among the chapters this time, and in the end my love for him was on par with my love for Ravyn. My girl Rachel sure can write fictional men. Phewwww.
I was also absolutely stoked that his love story went in the direction I had hoped for in book one. But there were still MANY surprises along the way which made this read so enthralling. The storytelling was weaved in such a brilliant way that I devoured 50% in the first day I received my ARC- including on extra stolen moments reading at work.
The Nightmare was everything I had hoped he’d be. The background, the history, how everything came together and intertwined… just magnificent. Read these books!! Now!