One Dark Window
⭐⭐⭐⭐.5 4.5 out of 5 stars
Title: One Dark Window
Author: Rachel Gillig
Publisher: Little, Brown Book Group UK
Format: ARC, ebook
Publication: 27th of September 2022
In the Kingdon of Blunder, isolated from the outside world by dangerous mist, Elspeth Spindle has too many secrets to keep. She is a daughter of a nobleman and an Infected— one of the few people that survived a mysterious fever that spread throughout the land. The victims are prosecuted as they are believed to spread the disease and because of their rare magical gifts. In Blunder, magic can only be wielded through Providence Cards, granted only to those in power. Elspeth believed that the illness left her without the gift until she understood how wrong she was. Fascinated by Providence Cards and their magic, she touched one of the most powerful— The Nightmare card and absorbed its power. From that day, the monster depicted on the card dwells inside her, helping her and gradually gaining control over her…
I loved this gothic YA novel. Especially the mysterious atmosphere and exciting world-building. Blunder is a place full of secrets, intrigues and magic. One Dark Window has a fascinating and original magic system, one of the best I read about. The idea of Providence Cards and the mystery surrounding them kept me interested in the plot. Also, the characters in this book are multifaceted and likeable. The story of Elspeth and her relationship with the Nightmare made this novel an addictive read. The perfectly presented slow-burn romance only added to the pleasure of reading.
To sum up, I genially enjoyed this gothic fantasy novel. It is a perfect Autumn read, and I recommend it to all fantasy fans.
Thank you, NetGalley and publisher, for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
A bookish daydream 