Rachel Gillig Books – Complete List & Reading Order (2025 Update)

1. Introduction

If you're a fan of dark fantasy filled with rich world-building, haunting magic, and unforgettable characters, Rachel Gillig is a name you need to know. With a writing style that blends lyrical prose and gothic storytelling, she has quickly become one of the most exciting new voices in fantasy fiction.

In this guide, you’ll find a complete list of Rachel Gillig’s books, including summaries, release dates, reading order, and insights into her writing themes. Whether you’re just discovering her work or looking to explore her books in the right order, this blog is your one-stop resource.

2. Who is Rachel Gillig?

Rachel Gillig is a fantasy author best known for her dark, atmospheric storytelling. With a background in literary studies and an eye for poetic language, her books often explore themes like power, identity, and transformation.

Writing Style and Themes

Gillig’s writing is known for its immersive world-building, lyrical prose, and emotionally complex characters. Her stories often blur the lines between light and dark, creating layered narratives that appeal to both fantasy and romance readers.

Recognition and Adaptations

Though early in her career, Rachel Gillig has already built a dedicated fanbase and earned critical acclaim within the fantasy community. Her books are frequently discussed in reader forums and have made appearances on several “Best Fantasy Books” lists.

3. Rachel Gillig Book Series

The Shepherd King Series

Rachel Gillig’s primary fantasy series, The Shepherd King, has captivated readers with its gothic atmosphere and slow-burn storytelling. Set in a world of ancient curses, forbidden magic, and unraveling secrets, the series is both a character-driven romance and a dark fantasy epic.

Genre: Dark Fantasy / Romantic Fantasy
Perfect For: Fans of Leigh Bardugo, Erin A. Craig, and Stephanie Garber

4. Rachel Gillig Books in Order

Chronological Reading Order

1. One Dark Window

  • Release Date: September 27, 2022

  • Summary: A story of a cursed forest, forbidden magic, and a mysterious man hiding dark secrets. Elspeth Spindle must navigate a kingdom ruled by fear while contending with the monster inside her mind.

  • Themes: Identity, sacrifice, dark magic, inner conflict

2. Two Twisted Crowns

  • Release Date: October 17, 2023

  • Summary: The sequel picks up where the first book left off, diving deeper into Elspeth's journey as power, prophecy, and rebellion collide.

  • Themes: Legacy, resistance, loyalty, emotional reckoning

Upcoming Releases (2025 Update)

As of 2025, no new titles have been officially confirmed, but fans speculate future works may either expand The Shepherd King universe or introduce an entirely new world. Stay tuned to Rachel Gillig’s official channels for announcements.

Recommended Reading Order

Since The Shepherd King series follows a continuous storyline, it’s best to read the books in their published order:

  1. One Dark Window

  2. Two Twisted Crowns

5. Standalone Novels and Short Works

As of now, Rachel Gillig has not released any standalone novels or published contributions in anthologies. Her writing career is currently focused on the Shepherd King series.

6. Themes and Writing Style

Rachel Gillig’s novels explore:

  • Recurring Motifs: Ancient curses, transformation, dual identities, power dynamics, loyalty

  • Tone: Gothic, atmospheric, emotional

  • Writing Style: Poetic prose with a focus on internal struggles and slow-burn relationships

Her stories are character-driven, often centered around protagonists grappling with inner demons and moral ambiguity.

7. Where to Start Reading Rachel Gillig

For new readers, the best place to begin is with One Dark Window. It introduces you to the core characters and sets the tone for the series. If you're a fan of dark fairy tales, complex heroines, and forbidden magic, this book will pull you in from page one.

8. Upcoming Rachel Gillig Books (2025 and Beyond)

While there are no official announcements as of mid-2025, readers are eagerly awaiting news of a third installment or an entirely new series. To stay updated:

  • Follow Rachel Gillig on Instagram or Twitter

  • Subscribe to her publisher’s newsletter

  • Join fantasy book communities on Reddit or Goodreads

9. Where to Buy Rachel Gillig’s Books

Rachel Gillig’s books are available in various formats to suit your preferences:

  • Online Retailers: Amazon, Bookshop.org, Barnes & Noble

  • Independent Sellers: Rarebiblio (for collector editions like leather-bound books)

  • Formats Available: Hardcover, paperback, Kindle, audiobook

For those looking for exclusive editions or gifts, leather-bound versions may be available through specialty retailers like Rare Biblio.

10. Conclusion

Rachel Gillig’s books blend the poetic and the powerful, drawing readers into haunting worlds filled with emotional depth and magical intrigue. If you enjoy atmospheric fantasy with strong female leads and dark twists, her writing is not to be missed.

Whether you’re starting with One Dark Window or exploring deeper into Two Twisted Crowns, her stories offer a rich, unforgettable experience.

Have you read her books? Share your thoughts in the comments or let us know which Rachel Gillig novel is your favorite.

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