Title: Two Twisted Crowns (The Shepherd King #2)
Author: Rachel Gillig
Source: Pasco County Library System
Publication Date: October 17, 2023
Synopsis: Goodreads
Purchase Link: Amazon

Other books in this series: One Dark Window (The Shepherd King #1)

Why did I choose to read this book?

After finishing One Dark Window I had to know how the duology ended. It’s as simple as that.

What is this book about?

This book puts all the plans from book one into motion, with the help of the Nightmare who knows where everything is and how everything works and is now operating Elspeth’s body and she’s trapped in her own mind. It’s a race to collect the deck of Providence Cards and restore the kingdom.

What is notable about this story?

This story explores the concept of consent much more deeply than the first book. From Elspeth being shoved to the background of her own mind, to her cousin’s use of a Maiden card, you’ll constantly be asking why no one is allowed to control their own bodies.

I also enjoyed the inclusion of “with great power comes great responsibility” in relation to the use of Providence Cards. There are people (including the High Prince) who use them to hurt, but others who use them only when necessary or to save people. The combo of consent is important and wield power thoughtfully made this book a nice expansion on the themes introduced in the first book.

The ending was nicely done and reminded me of The Shadow Glass (the conclusion to The Bone Witch trilogy by Rin Chupeco). Tying up the magic system with a nice bow while restoring the ability to choose to the populace was a great way to conclude the character’s efforts.

Was anything not so great?

This conclusion to the duology really drags out the hunt for the cards. The book felt a little too long with some characters and storylines either coming across as boring or unnecessary. The ending was satisfying enough that I didn’t mind so much, but it was noticeable enough that there were several times where I thought “ugh just get on with it already.”

What’s the verdict?

4 stars on Goodreads and if you read the first one you’ll have to read this one too. Go get it!

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