It was my year to read The Shepherd King duology and I enjoyed every bit of it! This is a story of dark magic, revenge, and a terrifying illness brutal enough to kill. Rachel Gillig’s writing is incredible and absolutely captivating. It is very descriptive, and captures a dark atmosphere ridden with magic. She smoothly laid out the world-building and the folklore that controls this story. She tells an amazing tale of retribution, balanced with a beautiful, slowburn romance in the background (and more :D). Elspeth and Ravyn are amazing characters, and their chemistry was through the roof! The tidbits of affection that they shared in this novel was perfect. Lastly, for fans of found family, we also have a prickly brute and an ice princess roaming the pages (this is a sign telling you to read it). 

It’s been a while since I’ve lost sleep reading a book. But this magical world is filled with so many twists and turns. Elspeth and the nightmare are extremely engaging unreliable narrator and the love story has me hooked (not smutty tho only one love scene). But I immediately bought the second book and will begin reading immediately. It’s that good! 

the first YA and fantasy book i’ve enjoyed in a loooong time.

the magic system being like TCG/cards is so unique and gives me life! def the best part of the book. and the Nightmare is like Venom.

i really like how abandonment and finding a family elsewhere are portrayed. the romance is typical but nice.

this was going to be a 5! but the book drags in the last part and doesn’t conclude, just sets up a sequel—which makes me not want to read it.