A review by lostinwords01
Two Twisted Crowns by Rachel Gillig

4.25

Book Review
Rating: 4.25 /5 Stars

"Two Twisted Crowns" by Rachel Gillig proves to be a satisfying yet veryyy slightly disappointing sequel to its strong debut, "One Dark Window." Gillig's storytelling prowess remains exceptional, creating a world that oozes opulence and gothic mystery, seamlessly complementing the narrative's unfolding complexity. The standout feature, the Providence cards and their role in shaping events, adds an engaging layer of intrigue. Elspeth's internal conflicts, particularly her battle against the Nightmare within, are portrayed with remarkable nuance, showcasing the author's commitment to character development.
While the magic system and character depth continue to shine, the sequel didn’t  fully match the intensity of the first book. A notable absence of Elspeth, the protagonist from the first installment, is a point of contention. The exploration of other character arcs, specifically Ione and Elm, is appreciated but felt forced, leaving a desire for a more prominent focus on Elspeth and Ravyn. Despite this, the book managed to leave me content and eager for Gillig's future works.