A review by rollie
One Dark Window by Rachel Gillig

adventurous dark emotional mysterious tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

Atmospherically, it’s AMAZING. It effortlessly thrusts you into the misty, gothic kingdom of Blunder. The specific secrets, lore, and dangers that accompany it are really what make it special. The fantasy aspects are very original, Some characters are fairly trope-y, but they’re tropes for a reason, and I love them regardless. Pacing felt at times very fast; not once did it make you trudge through unnecessary descriptions or world-building. This had the consequence of making the world feel smaller, but was perfect in this particular setting.

Also, I LOVED the “Nightmare” half of Elspeth’s mind, constantly speaking in riddles, brimming with power right below the surface and threatening to take over entirely with every use. This is exactly why the last 20% of this book was SO FREAKING GOOD. 

THIS is a gothic fantasy that is definitely worth your time