The Gilded Crown by Marianne Gordon (Review by Jessica Heatherly)

I was very surprised to learn that this is the author’s debut! The story is expertly woven and I was quickly consumed by the atmospheric setting. Necromancy is one of my favorite abilities in fantasy fiction and Marianne was able to make it unique. The main character, Hellevir, can not only speak to and raise the dead but she has to visit Death to do so. Every trade comes with a price so Hellevir’s ability has to be used sparingly or she will be reduced to nothing. When she is called upon by the Queen to save her only living heir, Hellevir becomes entangled in a web of royal politics, romance, and deals with Death she never expected. This is a little bit of a slow burn but once all of the characters are introduced and the magic system is explained, Marianne digs in deep and doesn’t let go until the very end. The relationship between Hellevir and the princess is complex and my heart hurt for them both at different times. Both women are strong and independent yet stuck in a role neither of them chose. This story is exciting, heartbreaking, adventurous, and gripping. I definitely recommend reading this one with friends!