Last update : 12/06/24
Author : Rachel Gillig
Length : 12h44
Narrated by : Lisa Cordileone
Category : Horror
Possibility of free reading : YES
In the spectral, fog-bound realm of Blunder, Elspeth Spindle requires more than mere fortune for her safety—she requires a beast. She refers to him as the Nightmare, an age-old, unpredictable spirit confined within her consciousness. He safeguards her. He conceals her truths.
However, nothing is without a price, particularly sorcery.
Upon encountering an enigmatic highwayman on the woodland path, Elspeth’s existence takes an unexpected twist. Propelled into a universe of shadows and deceit, she embarks on a perilous mission to rid Blunder of the malevolent magic plaguing it. Coincidentally, the highwayman is none other than the King’s nephew, the leader of Blunder’s most feared men…and a traitor.
Together, they have until the Solstice to collect twelve Providence Cards—the solution to the curse. But as the pressure escalates and their undeniable chemistry deepens, Elspeth is compelled to confront her darkest revelation yet: the Nightmare is gradually, ominously, seizing control of her psyche. And she may be powerless to prevent him.
I just finished the One Dark Window duo and I loved them!!
— Laura Crunk (@teachtechlc) June 10, 2024
Dive into the mysterious world of "One Dark Window", a gothic fantasy where Elspeth Spindle needs more than luck to navigate the treacherous kingdom of Blunder. This dark tale is expertly brought to life by narrator Lisa Cordileone over a span of nearly 13 hours of captivating storytelling.
Experience this narrative with a free trial period, cancel at any time, and rest assured that the story remains yours forever, even if you decide not to continue the subscription.
Should you wish to discontinue your journey through this enchanted and shadowy realm, a guide for the cancellation process can be found at the bottom of this page.
In the realm of dark fantasy, Rachel Gillig’s "One Dark Window" stands out as a compelling narrative that deftly blends gothic elements with a richly developed magic system. The audiobook, narrated by Lisa Cordileone, has garnered attention for its immersive quality and engaging performance, making it a notable entry in the genre.
"One Dark Window" follows the story of Elspeth Spindle, who resides in the mist-locked kingdom of Blunder. The kingdom is plagued by dark magic, and Elspeth herself harbors a dangerous secret: a monstrous entity known as the Nightmare lives within her mind. This entity, both a curse and a source of power, adds a layer of psychological complexity to the narrative, as Elspeth navigates her dual existence while striving to save her kingdom. The plot intensifies when she meets a mysterious highwayman who draws her into a quest involving magical Providence Cards, which are crucial to curing the kingdom's afflictions.
The audiobook’s strength lies significantly in Cordileone’s narration. Her ability to transition between sinister and joyful tones enhances the eerie atmosphere of the story. Reviewers have praised her portrayal of the Nightmare’s voice as particularly effective, contributing to the tension and dark allure of the tale. This dynamic performance helps listeners engage deeply with Elspeth’s internal struggles and the overarching suspense.
Critics have noted the innovative magic system, inspired by tarot, as a standout feature. The use of Providence Cards, which exact a toll on the user, introduces a refreshing take on magical consequences, raising the stakes for each character’s decisions. This system ensures that magic is not used frivolously, adding depth to the narrative and making the characters’ choices more impactful.
However, the audiobook is not without its criticisms. Some listeners found the pacing uneven, with certain sections dragging and detracting from the overall experience. Additionally, while the romance subplot has been appreciated for its slow-burn approach, it may not appeal to all listeners, especially those looking for a more fast-paced narrative.