‘One Dark Window’ by Rachel Gillig

Murder mysteryContemporary fantasy

May 17

Written By Katelyn

Title: One Dark Window

Genre: Gothic Fantasy, New Adult

Series: Duology

Synopsis: Elspeth Spindle needs more than luck to stay safe in the eerie, mist-locked kingdom she calls home—she needs a monster. She calls him the Nightmare, an ancient, mercurial spirit trapped in her head. He protects her. He keeps her secrets. But nothing comes for free, especially magic.

Content Warnings

Spice Rating: Mild-moderate

One open-door scene with non-graphic descriptions

Violence Rating: Mild-moderate

Blood and injury detail, swordfighting, breaking of bones, physical abuse

Profanity Rating: Mild-moderate

Less than 10 uses of f*ck

Book Review

Overall rating: 5/5 stars

I loved One Dark Window for its immersive intensity and exploration of darker themes like trust and betrayal, identity and discovery, and the ability to wield power through control and fear.

“Magic is the oldest paradox. The more power it gives you, the weaker you become. Be wary. Be clever. Be good. Magic is the oldest paradox.” (219)

Gillig’s writing style is smooth, intense, and atmospheric. I don’t typically like gothic novels, but this one doesn’t get carried away with its ghosts and nightmares. It retains an edge of fantasy over the typical historical gothic genre. Think of mists, dark castles, and trees. The nightmares that are described are bloodless and are more disconcerting than terrifying.

Elspeth is a compelling protagonist. Much of the novel occurs in her head due to her relationship with the Nightmare, but I wasn’t annoyed by this. It is introspective, but moves along at a good pace. I was completely immersed in this book. The romance is light, present but not overwhelming. It retains a feeling of young love without the angst of this trope.

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