Rachel Gillig

Rachel Gillig (born September 23, 1989) is an American gothic romantic fantasy author. She is known for her duologies The Shepherd King and Stonewater Kingdom.

Early life and education Gillig was born and raised on the coast of California. Both of her grandmothers were artists—one was a painter and the other, a pianist.

She has a bachelor's degree from University of California, Davis. Originally majoring in art history, she eventually switched to literary theory and criticism.

Her first duology, The Shepherd King, consists of One Dark Window (2022) and Two Twisted Crowns (2023). Her second Stonewater Kingdom duology starts with The Knight and the Moth (2025) while its conclusion The Knave and the Moon is set for release in September 2026.

Many of her stories are inspired by folklore, particularly folk ballads. For instance, The Knight and the Moth was inspired by The Outlandish Knight.

Personal life Gillig lives in California with her husband and son.

She is outspoken against artificial intelligence, calling it "theft" and opposing its impact on the environment and on users' critical thinking skills.

Works

The Shepherd King series

One Dark Window (2022) Two Twisted Crowns (2023)

Stonewater Kingdom series

The Knight and the Moth (2025) The Knave and the Moon (2026)