For those who enjoyed Alexander Dan Vilhjálmsson's previous book 'Shadows of the Short Days' I think this book continues much in the same vein. Packed full of imaginative and creepy magical creatures and elements Alexander Dan Vilhjálmsson builds on the magical Iceland set out in the first book, this time moving away from the city and into the more rural and isolated parts of the country.
I enjoyed the tragic and emotional story of Elka and Solvi escaping the city only to find themselves in a worse situation (or a different but still bad situation) and the depiction of an abusive relationship was written well and thus very emotional. The book also follows a scientist with a very interesting backstory. I did enjoy those elements but found the plot harder to follow and thus leaned more into one of the narratives.
I would recommend looking up content warnings if you are planning on picking this book up, particularly abusive relationships and pregnancy elements.
Personally, I find Alexander Dan Vilhjálmsson's writing a tad dense and at times hard to follow, despite taking this book relatively slowly and doing a reread of Shadows of the Short Days I was still quite confused at times. This might be a book that warrants a reread to experience it at it's fullest.
There is a specific type of person who I think would wholeheartedly appreciate these books, for me they are not quite to my particular taste but I appreciate the creativity, the spine chilling elements and the truly unique fantasy world Alexander Dan Vilhjálmsson has created.
I received a free digital review copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley, all opinions are my own.

It's been so long since I read Shadows of the Short Days that I had to go back and check it.
This an original and fascinating fantasy series and this second book met all my expectations and kept me turning pages.
Great world building and characters.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine

This is a beautiful unique story! The characters are endearing and the world making fascinating. I really enjoyed this book!