Rachel Gillig biography

Rachel Gillig is an American author who has rapidly become a leading voice in the gothic fantasy and "romantasy" genres. Raised on the California coast, her upbringing by the sea continues to influence the atmospheric, mist-cloaked settings of her narratives. Gillig holds a Bachelor of Arts in Literary Theory and Criticism from the University of California, Davis, a background that informs her intricate world-building and nuanced character development.

Before her career as a full-time writer, Gillig worked as a preschool teacher and an artist. She achieved international acclaim with her debut duology, The Shepherd King, consisting of One Dark Window (2022) and Two Twisted Crowns (2023). These titles reached the top of the New York Times and Sunday Times bestseller lists, celebrated for their unique magic systems and dark folklore. In 2025, she expanded her literary footprint with the release of The Knight and the Moth, the first installment in her Stonewater Kingdom series.

Currently residing in California, Gillig balances her writing life with a passion for gardening. When not dreaming up new stories, she can often be found walking along the coast with her husband, son, and their poodle, Wally.

All Rachel Gillig Reviews

Authors you may also enjoy