One Dark Window By Rachel Gillig - Book One in The Shepherd King duology

"Elspeth needs a monster. The monster might be her."

In the mist-shrouded kingdom of Blunder, magic is a dangerous thing — and survival means hiding the darkest parts of yourself. Elspeth Spindle harbors a secret: a cunning spirit called the Nightmare lives inside her mind, protecting her at a steep cost.

When a chance meeting with a mysterious highwayman pulls her into a world of treason, magic, and forbidden power, Elspeth must risk everything to save her kingdom — and herself.

Perfect for readers who love:
🖤 Gothic fantasy
🖤 Morally grey characters
🖤 Ancient, forbidden magic
🖤 Slow-burn romance
🖤 Cursed kingdoms
🖤 Eerie, atmospheric worlds

The first book in The Shepherd King duology — haunting, lyrical, and utterly addictive.