Series hub
Stonewater Kingdom
Stonewater Kingdom is Rachel Gillig's gothic romantasy follow-up lane for readers who loved the mist, omens, old faith, doomed-seeming love, and storybook dread of The Shepherd King.
Author: Rachel Gillig | Last checked: October 13, 2026.
Books in the series
| Book | Type | Where it fits |
|---|---|---|
| The Knight and the Moth | Main book | Book one; start here. |
| The Knave and the Moon | Main book | Book two; released September 1, 2026. |
Reading path
Start with The Knight and the Moth, then continue with The Knave and the Moon. Hachette lists The Knave and the Moon as the second Stonewater Kingdom title with a September 1, 2026 release date, and Gillig's release-day note says the book has arrived.
Reader fit
Choose it if you want gothic atmosphere, religious imagery, prophecy, a cursed kingdom, sharp banter, and a newer release path from a major romantasy author.
What readers tend to notice
The Stonewater Kingdom lane feels close to The Shepherd King in atmosphere, but its hook is different: cathedral faith, Omens, religious power, prophecy, and a heroine whose visions are tied to duty. It is a useful recommendation when someone wants Gillig's gothic voice but has already finished One Dark Window and Two Twisted Crowns.
The practical distinction is mood rather than timing: The Shepherd King is the older Providence Card favorite, while Stonewater is Gillig's newer gothic route now that book two has landed.
Before you start
This is a separate series from The Shepherd King. You can read it first, but Shepherd King readers are the most obvious audience because they already know Gillig's gothic rhythm. Readers starting here should expect atmosphere, faith, and folklore to matter as much as the romance thread.
Best browsing paths
This is a major current-release path for gothic romantasy, Rachel Gillig readers, and news/update browsing.
Choose this over...
Choose Stonewater Kingdom over The Shepherd King when you want a newer release path; choose The Shepherd King when you want a complete duology today.
Quick decision guide
| Reader question | Best answer |
|---|---|
| Choose it if | You want Rachel Gillig's newer gothic romantasy world. |
| Skip it if | You specifically want the older Providence Card magic of The Shepherd King. |
| Best mood | Omens, cathedrals, mist, old stories, and dangerous faith. |
| Best next click | The Shepherd King. |
Audiobook format
| Format | What it means | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Standard audiobook | Retailer listings include standard audiobook routes by title. | Listeners who want Gillig's gothic mood in traditional audio. |
| Dramatized adaptation | No GraphicAudio listing verified for this hub. | Use standard audio, ebook, or print. |
Where to buy or listen
Check current editions for Stonewater Kingdom. Availability, narration, price, and retailer listings can change by country.
Some links may be affiliate links. Always confirm the exact edition and format before buying.
Reader FAQ
Where should I start Stonewater Kingdom?
Start with The Knight and the Moth.
Is Stonewater Kingdom connected to The Shepherd King?
Treat it as a separate Rachel Gillig series. Readers may recognize Gillig's gothic style, but this is not book three of The Shepherd King.
Is The Knave and the Moon out?
Yes. Hachette lists The Knave and the Moon with a September 1, 2026 release date.
Who should read it?
Readers who want gothic romantasy, prophecy, old faith, and a newer Rachel Gillig release path.
What to read next
Try The Shepherd King, One Dark Window Recap, or Gothic Romantasy Books.