One Dark Window

The narrative crafting and simple yet deceptively immersive world building keeps you coming back. To count the number of times this book made me feel intensely; the CHILLS, the tears, the sensuality. 10/10. Will be reading book 2.

Loved the twist and turns! Keeps you on your toes!!

It was an interesting story and a fun adventure to go on. Characters are great and I enjoyed each characters emotion. The characters emotions really enhanced the story.

The story itself is beautifully crafted. Magic cards in my opinion aren’t that interesting, but the way the author uses them to create the story line, to build each character and their unique gifts, and how all the magic behind the cards tie the characters together on a quest truly has inspired me to believe in the magic that the author created. Each character in this story has an important role and adds depth to the unfolding of the story. Overall, I was very pleased with this book. I wish there were more parts, but two parts was sufficient so that the story wasn’t drawn out unnecessarily.

Started a little slow, but wow did it blow me away in the end

This book was so well-reviewed that I was expecting to love it, but in the end it wasn’t the book for me. The terrible rhyming poetry that starts each chapter was painful for me to read, but if I could have just skipped it after the first few chapters I would have kept reading; but I discovered that the terrible rhyming poetry is also integrated into the main text, and after several chapters of wincing every time I was forced to read it, I finally gave up. It wasn’t helped by an apparent major plot twist that seemed super-obvious to me based on the actual text (not even just hints) but which the main characters seemed to still be oblivious to at the point where I quit reading.

I love this book!!!! It had me hooked in from the start! It’s so good and I can’t wait to read the next one!!

I really enjoyed reading this book. The writing was poetic and the world-building was well done and interesting. My only critique is that the plot left something to be desired. (Spoilers ahead)I don’t think her dad should have given her the last card, that was a lost opportunity on the authors part. I also didn’t feel any connection between the main love interests. I’m hoping that they don’t actually love each other and that it’s a magic pull but since it’s a two book series I doubt it. I felt like there was more chemistry between her and Prince Elm. The Nightmare was what kept me reading. I wanted to know more about him and his motives. I liked the ending and I bought the second book but haven’t gotten into yet. A lot of it is Ravyn POV and I might just be me but I don’t feel connected to this character and I don’t feel like is relationship with the FMC is real.

“One Dark Window” stands out as a captivating romantic fantasy, rich in mystery and set in a mesmerizing, shadowy world. The story entangles intrigue with romance, led by well-crafted characters and a plot that’s consistently engaging. Its romance is emotionally deep, offering a slow burn rather than spicy scenes, focusing more on emotional connections. The writing is vivid, creating an atmospheric and enchanting world that balances fantasy and romance expertly. While it may not satisfy those seeking steamier content, it’s a compelling read for fans of dark, romantic fantasy. This four-star book impresses with its intricate narrative and beautifully eerie setting, perfect for those who love their fantasy with a strong emotional core.

"One Dark Window" holds a special place in my heart. It narrates a love story set against the backdrop of a woman's struggle to find her place in a society that perceives her as flawed. Reminiscent of the "Scarlet Letter," Elspeth and those affected by the fever endure more than surreptitious glances. A grimmer fate awaits those afflicted by this curse. The story explores themes of honor versus heart, love, and the extents one would go to protect it. Ravyn Yew emerges as a particularly fascinating character. Initially unremarkable, as the story progresses, his complexities are revealed, compelling us to question his allegiances. The inevitability of Elspeth and Ravyn's relationship isn't concealed. Instead, author Rachel Gillig presents intriguing decisions they must confront. Gilling’s gift is taking a setting that feels very much medieval and capitalizing off of it. There’s fog, most, looming darkness, and whispers that carry through the wind of a dark night. It’s immersive thanks to her choice of prose and actions that truly capture the horror feeling. One of my favorite things she does is the description of Elspeth’s dark passenger. Gilling uses terms like slick and oily to describe the voice, and the term slithering when describing the movements of the Nightmare in her mind. A memorable scene features multiple characters in a room where tension is palpable, akin to the effect of salt on the magically inclined. Gillig skillfully uses action to decelerate pacing, crafting an atmosphere reminiscent of Quentin Tarantino’s style. She weaves the light into the story through the emotions of Elspeth and I love it. The lore of the fever, magic, and the cards is presented in an easily digestible manner. The plot is straightforward: gather all 12 Providence Cards to cure those suffering from the fever's aftermath. A secret society of heroes embarks on a quest to challenge authority and offer hope to the ostracized. This group is endearing, but none more so than Jasper, with her humor, intuition, charm, and remarkable wit. For those seeking a book with fluid prose and a simple yet enchanting plot intertwining magic and love, "One Dark Window" is an excellent choice. It’s a quick, fun, and engaging read and I’m a better writer after reading it.