I’ve quickly become obsessed with The Shepard King series—these books are definitely a new favourite. Gothic, mysterious, and utterly gripping, they’re the first books to make me this hooked in months.

The writing style perfectly balances poetic elegance with an eerie undertone that fits the dark, magical world Gillig has created. The magic system, centered around cards, is incredibly unique and one of the most inventive I’ve come across. It’s intricately tied to the plot, adding layers of depth and intrigue that make the story even more captivating.

What I especially appreciated was the series’ brevity—just two books. It’s clear the author had the entire story mapped out before writing, allowing the plot and characters to feel meticulously thought through and fully developed. There’s no unnecessary filler or drawn-out arcs; every detail feels intentional and impactful.