One Dark Window by Rachel Gillig
A cult classic for a reason, One Dark Window is a captivating tale of mist and magic.
Trapped in a mist-shrouded kingdom, Elspeth harbours a monstrous secret – a nightmare trapped within her mind. When a mysterious highwayman crosses her path, their destinies intertwine in a perilous quest to break the curse that binds their world.
The writing was beautiful. Gillig has such a way with words and poetry. She’s able to paint vivid landscapes and unforgettable characters, creating a world both hauntingly beautiful and deeply unsettling.
I’ll admit that the story unfolds somewhat slowly. I didn’t finish both books in one sitting. There were times I was rather impatient for the story to move along. That said, once I completed both novels, I absolutely adored the plot. The plot is intricate and engaging, and the world-building is nothing short of exceptional. The magic system is also unlike any I’ve ever read.
My only gripe was with Elspeth (the FMC) – she’s somewhat fearful and hesitant. While I’m not a huge fan of her character, I LOVED LOVED LOVED Taxus. I’d argue that he was the main character of the series and what a gripping character he was.
If you’re a fan of gothic fantasy with a touch of darkness, One Dark Window is an absolute must-read.
“Be wary. Be clever. Be good.”
Overall: ★★★★
Plot: 9/10
Writing: 10/10
Romance: 4/10 (the romance is more of a sub-plot)
World Building: 10/10
Age: 16+ (leans towards YA but there are a couple of sexual scenes)
Where to find it: Amazon


Leave a comment