Book Review: Two Twisted Crowns
- Author: Rachel Gillig
- Series: The Shepherd King
- Publisher: Orbit
- Page Count: 437 pages, Paperback
- First published: October 17, 2023
- ASIN: 0356519503
- ISBN: 9780356519500 (ISBN10: 0356519503
- Available in eBook Format (ePub): Yes
- Available in Audible
Plot
A new couple steps into the spotlight — one hinted at in the first book: Elm and Ione Glough. From secondary characters, they evolve into central figures, effortlessly capturing the reader’s heart.
The story picks up immediately after the events of the previous installment. Elspeth and Ravyn now possess most of the Providence Deck, but the final — and most important — card is still missing. To destroy the looming threat, save the infected, and restore the fragile balance, they must brave the deadly mist. And the only one who can lead them through it is none other than the Nightmare.
But time is running out. If they fail to reunite the deck before the solstice, they’ll have to wait another full year — something Emory can no longer afford.
Review
The narrative unfolds through the perspectives of Ravyn, Elspeth, and Elm — a brilliant choice by the author that deepens the worldbuilding and the magic system. This approach lets us experience not just the unfolding events, but the inner battles the characters face — the struggle against the cards’ influence, the price they pay, and the path to reuniting the deck.
At first, the second romantic subplot felt like a distraction from Elspeth’s journey. But as the story progressed — especially considering where she was — I completely understood its purpose. It added emotional balance and kept the tension steady throughout.
The Nightmare continues to be an absolute favorite! Every one of his lines was a delight — sarcastic, grumpy, and constantly channeling the energy of an annoyed Venom, ready to “devour” anything that threatens his people. Behind his biting humor lies a kind heart, and his quips add charm and levity. Honestly? I need a Nightmare spin-off.
And once we learn more about the Nightmare’s past, it’s impossible not to love him. His backstory is emotionally powerful — filled with pain, hard choices, and sacrifice, making him one of the most complex and unforgettable characters in the series.
Ione pleasantly surprised me. I found her annoying in the first book, but here Gillig skillfully justifies her every action and gives her real depth. I’ll admit — she actually grew on me. And the scenes with Elm? Simply perfect. He’s like a giant teddy bear — caring, vulnerable, and completely endearing. Their romance ended up being even more compelling than the central love story in One Dark Window, offering not just attraction but warmth, trust, emotional depth, and quiet strength.
Two Twisted Crowns is distinctly more emotional. Gillig’s world continues to expand with fresh details and inventive ideas. While there are a few slower-paced moments, the final act delivers intense action and dramatic twists. Everything ties together beautifully, offering a satisfying and well-earned conclusion to the duology.
In the luscious, dark sequel to One Dark Window, Elspeth must face the consequences of what she’s wrought – perfect for readers of Hannah Whitten’s For the Wolf and Alexis Henderson’s The Year of the Witching.
Elspeth and Ravyn have gathered most of the twelve Providence Cards, but the last, and most important one remains to be found: The Twin Alders.
If they are going to find it before the Solstice and cure the kingdom of the dark magic infecting it, they will need to journey beyond the dangerous mist-cloaked forest that surrounds their kingdom.
And the only one who can lead them there is the monster that shares Elspeth’s head. The Nightmare. And he’s not eager to share any longer.
