What do you think?
Rate this book
How far would you go to outrun the person you used to be?
In search of freedom and a fresh start, Cassius Vera sails for unexplored lands in the hope that he can forget the one woman he has ever truly loved, the only one to look past his gifts and superficial charm to the real man beneath. But Cass is carrying more than bad memories, and one slip in front of his new shipmates could send him back into slavery once again . . . or worse.
Fleeing heartbreak and false accusations of murder, werebeast Zaire Delmar stows away onboard a ship, wanting to get as far away from Caldera as possible. She doesn't expect to meet Cass, an alter whose stunning good looks rival even hers, nor does she anticipate the surprising affinity she shares with him. When Cass offers his protection, Zaire spurns his help. She is half beast--she can take care of herself. And the last thing she needs is to get closer to a man in whose presence she cannot lie, even if he's offering to share her sorrow.
But after a shipwreck catapults them into a new world even more dangerous than the land they left behind, Zaire is forced to depend on the only ally she has left. The same man she betrayed, not so many months ago.
J. J. Fischer is an award-winning author whose book Calor won the 2023 Realm Award Book of the Year as well as the Realm Award for Best Fantasy. The second book, Lumen, was a 2024 Christy Award Finalist. The Nightingale Trilogy is a fantasy transformation of Hans Christian Andersen's beloved 1843 tale The Nightingale, with echoes of the myths of Hades and Persephone. Caligo is a sequel to the trilogy and is best read after reading the first three books, but can be enjoyed as a stand-alone.
In search of freedom and a fresh start, Cassius Vera sails for unexplored lands in the hope that he can forget the one woman he has ever truly loved, the only one to look past his gifts and superficial charm to the real man beneath. But Cass is carrying more than bad memories, and one slip in front of his new shipmates could send him back into slavery once again . . . or worse.
Fleeing heartbreak and false accusations of murder, werebeast Zaire Delmar stows away onboard a ship, wanting to get as far away from Caldera as possible. She doesn't expect to meet Cass, an alter whose stunning good looks rival even hers, nor does she anticipate the surprising affinity she shares with him. When Cass offers his protection, Zaire spurns his help. She is half beast--she can take care of herself. And the last thing she needs is to get closer to a man in whose presence she cannot lie, even if he's offering to share her sorrow.
But after a shipwreck catapults them into a new world even more dangerous than the land they left behind, Zaire is forced to depend on the only ally she has left. The same man she betrayed, not so many months ago.
J. J. Fischer is an award-winning author whose book Calor won the 2023 Realm Award Book of the Year as well as the Realm Award for Best Fantasy. The second book, Lumen, was a 2024 Christy Award Finalist. The Nightingale Trilogy is a fantasy transformation of Hans Christian Andersen's beloved 1843 tale The Nightingale, with echoes of the myths of Hades and Persephone. Caligo is a sequel to the trilogy and is best read after reading the first three books, but can be enjoyed as a stand-alone.
342 pages, Hardcover
First published May 15, 2025
3 people are currently reading
123 people want to read
About the author
J.J. Fischer
13 books286 followersJasmine’s writing dream began with the anthology of zoo animals she painstakingly wrote and illustrated at age five, to rather limited acclaim. Thankfully, her writing (but not her drawing) has improved since then. She is a clinically-trained psychologist but no, she cannot read your mind. When she isn’t killing defenseless house plants, Jasmine enjoys devouring books, dabbling in floristry, playing the piano, eating peanut butter out of the jar, and wishing it rained more often. Jasmine is married to David, and together they make their home a couple of hours’ north of Sydney, Australia, where they live to satisfy the every whim of their ginger overlord cat, Simba.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
September 9, 2025
Genre: Christian Fantasy
Rating: 4 stars
Do I recommend it? Yes!
This. Was. Crazy.
The ups and downs, mostly downs to be honest. This book was just crazy. I am so happy to have Cass’s ending now and watching his redemption arc was beautiful. It was also amazing getting to see Zaire’s redemption arc.
I loved getting to know both Cass and Zaire better through their own POV’s. It was incredible.
I did not enjoy this book quite as much as the trilogy but if you’ve read the trilogy this is a must read.
This book was definitely a little darker but oh how the light shines through!
‼️‼️‼️ (SPOILER) A thing I would’ve liked done differently is I was really hoping for a reunion between Dorian and Seph, and Cass. But we didn’t get that. ‼️‼️‼️‼️‼️
The world building in this book was crazy. The society that Cass and Zaire find themselves a part of, insane.
Just go read the book 😂I have nothing more to say.
Content:
Language- 0/5
Violence- 0/5
Sexual- 0/5
Cleannn
Rating: 4 stars
Do I recommend it? Yes!
This. Was. Crazy.
The ups and downs, mostly downs to be honest. This book was just crazy. I am so happy to have Cass’s ending now and watching his redemption arc was beautiful. It was also amazing getting to see Zaire’s redemption arc.
I loved getting to know both Cass and Zaire better through their own POV’s. It was incredible.
I did not enjoy this book quite as much as the trilogy but if you’ve read the trilogy this is a must read.
This book was definitely a little darker but oh how the light shines through!
‼️‼️‼️ (SPOILER) A thing I would’ve liked done differently is I was really hoping for a reunion between Dorian and Seph, and Cass. But we didn’t get that. ‼️‼️‼️‼️‼️
The world building in this book was crazy. The society that Cass and Zaire find themselves a part of, insane.
Just go read the book 😂I have nothing more to say.
Content:
Language- 0/5
Violence- 0/5
Sexual- 0/5
Cleannn
July 5, 2025
Wow. I don’t even know what to say. I just finished this book, and I can’t even begin to figure out how to talk about it, but let me try.
Obviously, Cassius being my fav character of all from the Nightingale trilogy, I was very excited to continue his story here in Caligo.
When the book first started, I was immediately hooked and invested in the story, though I will admit, once certain events (spoilers) happened, I grew frustrated and even a little angry. I mean…precious little Cass had to go through all that??? But I see now why he did and the man he became through it. It was hard, and it broke my heart and ripped it to shreds, but in the end, just like Cass, I saw the hope and promise of a new beginning.
A lot of the truths Cass was having to come to terms with in this book were things I needed to hear, specifically about surrender and his burdens. I tend to carry much on my shoulders, and hold on to it with a death grip. Walking that journey with Cass and getting to see and experience it through his eyes helped me to focus and actually reflect on my own life and see what I’ve been doing, that I’ve been holding onto control and scared to let God have it. Scared to let go and trust Someone else with my pain and hurt.
I didn’t cry reading the book, surprisingly enough, but I was very deeply moved and for that reason alone makes me want to cry. Just thinking about God’s goodness, and His love for us. That He loves us that much, that He’s take all our ugliness and pain upon Himself, just because of love. But it’s our choice to give it to Him, to surrender it to Him and let go.
All that to say, I ended up loving this book. While I think Memoria is my top fav of the series, Cailgo takes place as a close second, and will be in my thoughts often.
Thank you, J. J. Fischer, for writing the story that God has laid upon your heart, and for sharing it with all of us. I am very grateful and blessed that I’ve been able to read your books, and that through them, God has opened and changed my heart, deepening my relationship with Him.
Alsooo I approve of who Cass ended up with 🥹
Obviously, Cassius being my fav character of all from the Nightingale trilogy, I was very excited to continue his story here in Caligo.
When the book first started, I was immediately hooked and invested in the story, though I will admit, once certain events (spoilers) happened, I grew frustrated and even a little angry. I mean…precious little Cass had to go through all that??? But I see now why he did and the man he became through it. It was hard, and it broke my heart and ripped it to shreds, but in the end, just like Cass, I saw the hope and promise of a new beginning.
A lot of the truths Cass was having to come to terms with in this book were things I needed to hear, specifically about surrender and his burdens. I tend to carry much on my shoulders, and hold on to it with a death grip. Walking that journey with Cass and getting to see and experience it through his eyes helped me to focus and actually reflect on my own life and see what I’ve been doing, that I’ve been holding onto control and scared to let God have it. Scared to let go and trust Someone else with my pain and hurt.
I didn’t cry reading the book, surprisingly enough, but I was very deeply moved and for that reason alone makes me want to cry. Just thinking about God’s goodness, and His love for us. That He loves us that much, that He’s take all our ugliness and pain upon Himself, just because of love. But it’s our choice to give it to Him, to surrender it to Him and let go.
All that to say, I ended up loving this book. While I think Memoria is my top fav of the series, Cailgo takes place as a close second, and will be in my thoughts often.
Thank you, J. J. Fischer, for writing the story that God has laid upon your heart, and for sharing it with all of us. I am very grateful and blessed that I’ve been able to read your books, and that through them, God has opened and changed my heart, deepening my relationship with Him.
Alsooo I approve of who Cass ended up with 🥹
June 26, 2025
I have a confession to make: I preordered this standalone sequel to the Nightingale Trilogy before I had even started the first book. I was that sure that I would love the series. That bet paid off. It’s not often that every single book in a series is a five-star read, but the Nightingale saga was that for me. And that includes Caligo. This sequel was just as fantastic as the main trilogy, if not even better.
Our two main perspective characters, Cass and Zaire, start out as enemies. They were originally on opposite sides of a war that ended in a way no one could have expected, resulting in their two sides coming together in the end. Both Cass and Zaire have lived enslaved to a variety of things — abusive loved ones, alcohol, sex, actual slavery, the altered gifts they view as curses. Both are broken and on the run from heartache, failure, and regret. When they find themselves aboard the same ship amidst their respective flights from Caldera, they come to an uneasy truce, though there’s still a lot of distrust between them. The way the two grew, both as individuals and in their changing relationship with each other, was wonderfully believable and very well done.
We also have a fantastic supporting cast comprised of new faces and favorites from the original trilogy. My favorite of these recurring characters is Spartan, who is just so easy to love. There’s a purity to him and his faith in the Three that I find inspiring. And then there’s Synth, one of the weirdest, funniest animal companions I’ve come across. He’s a Gallus, a small, prophetic chicken. I provided some much needed comic relief on more than one occasion. Also, in keeping with the light touches of Greek mythological influence woven into the series, there are monsters that have been nicknamed Scylla and Charybdis. I love these small nods to Greek myth.
I loved the variety Fischer gave us in terms of setting, and how different those settings were from those that comprised the bulk of the main trilogy. I love nautical stories, so having the initial setting be aboard a ship was fun for me. The nautical first act of the book is followed by a combination of desert and subterranean cavern settings, both of which were captivatingly portrayed. It is here that we meet the Virago, cave-dwelling Amazons with a color-based caste system. Interactions with the Virago comprise the bulk of the story, and it is through these interactions we see some of the larger themes come into play, such as abuse and the ways those being abused often excuse it, sanctity of live, and infertility. As someone who struggled with infertility only to have to undergo a radical hysterectomy at 26, there was an aspect of this story that was healing for me. Which isn't always the case with books that utilize infertility in such a way. There is also a great—if brief—portrayal of going through physical withdrawals when being forced to detox from something to which you've been addicted for a long time.
But as will the main trilogy, my favorite element of this installment was the spiritual aspect. I love the illustration Fischer uses of followers of the Three drinking from tiny vials containing the waters of a particular pool in the Garden. These bottles never run dry, no matter how deeply you drink or how much you share with others. When you consume these waters, they give memories of things past and visions of things to come, all of them anchored in Truth. It's a wonderful allegorical representation of Scripture, of the encouragement and source of Truth it should be in the lives of all believers. And there was a moment toward the end of the book that reminded me of one of my favorite scenes in The Voyage of the Dawn Treader. It's a powerful portrayal of rebirth.
I loved Caligo so much. I would be hard-pressed to chose a favorite among the four books in the Nightingale universe. But if I absolutely had to choose, Caligo would be neck-and-neck with Memoria for that top slot. I’m already looking forward to revisiting this world. And in the meantime, I’m excited to read everything else Fischer has penned. What a gift she has!
Our two main perspective characters, Cass and Zaire, start out as enemies. They were originally on opposite sides of a war that ended in a way no one could have expected, resulting in their two sides coming together in the end. Both Cass and Zaire have lived enslaved to a variety of things — abusive loved ones, alcohol, sex, actual slavery, the altered gifts they view as curses. Both are broken and on the run from heartache, failure, and regret. When they find themselves aboard the same ship amidst their respective flights from Caldera, they come to an uneasy truce, though there’s still a lot of distrust between them. The way the two grew, both as individuals and in their changing relationship with each other, was wonderfully believable and very well done.
We also have a fantastic supporting cast comprised of new faces and favorites from the original trilogy. My favorite of these recurring characters is Spartan, who is just so easy to love. There’s a purity to him and his faith in the Three that I find inspiring. And then there’s Synth, one of the weirdest, funniest animal companions I’ve come across. He’s a Gallus, a small, prophetic chicken. I provided some much needed comic relief on more than one occasion. Also, in keeping with the light touches of Greek mythological influence woven into the series, there are monsters that have been nicknamed Scylla and Charybdis. I love these small nods to Greek myth.
I loved the variety Fischer gave us in terms of setting, and how different those settings were from those that comprised the bulk of the main trilogy. I love nautical stories, so having the initial setting be aboard a ship was fun for me. The nautical first act of the book is followed by a combination of desert and subterranean cavern settings, both of which were captivatingly portrayed. It is here that we meet the Virago, cave-dwelling Amazons with a color-based caste system. Interactions with the Virago comprise the bulk of the story, and it is through these interactions we see some of the larger themes come into play, such as abuse and the ways those being abused often excuse it, sanctity of live, and infertility. As someone who struggled with infertility only to have to undergo a radical hysterectomy at 26, there was an aspect of this story that was healing for me. Which isn't always the case with books that utilize infertility in such a way. There is also a great—if brief—portrayal of going through physical withdrawals when being forced to detox from something to which you've been addicted for a long time.
But as will the main trilogy, my favorite element of this installment was the spiritual aspect. I love the illustration Fischer uses of followers of the Three drinking from tiny vials containing the waters of a particular pool in the Garden. These bottles never run dry, no matter how deeply you drink or how much you share with others. When you consume these waters, they give memories of things past and visions of things to come, all of them anchored in Truth. It's a wonderful allegorical representation of Scripture, of the encouragement and source of Truth it should be in the lives of all believers. And there was a moment toward the end of the book that reminded me of one of my favorite scenes in The Voyage of the Dawn Treader. It's a powerful portrayal of rebirth.
I loved Caligo so much. I would be hard-pressed to chose a favorite among the four books in the Nightingale universe. But if I absolutely had to choose, Caligo would be neck-and-neck with Memoria for that top slot. I’m already looking forward to revisiting this world. And in the meantime, I’m excited to read everything else Fischer has penned. What a gift she has!
September 30, 2025
Heart-pounding and heart-warming, this is the perfect sequel to a wonderful trilogy. I highly recommend the whole series.
July 8, 2025
Another great adventure to the trilogy, I just love the way this authors writes and her ability to make me feel so connected to the characters and their stores and trials. Love it 🥰🥰
March 14, 2025
This is one of my top Christian fantasy series, and I think this sequel might be my favorite of all four! These two characters were so fantastic together, and I loved the mini chicken sidekick. I just wish Cass and Zaire had their own sequel!
April 11, 2025
Okay, I'll admit, I'm in the minority who preferred Dorian over Cass in the Nightingale Trilogy (sorry, JJ!), but I was still super excited to read Cass's story in Caligo. And it certainly didn't disappoint!
The author has a way of pulling you into the story from the very first page, and not letting you go until long after the book is finished. Seriously, it's been over a week and (and a few other books) I'm still thinking about this story. I love the adventure, the language, the depth, the romance, the subtle yet somehow so hard-hitting themes, the tension and wonder on every page - not so much that I can't handle the read but the perfect amount to make me positive if I put the book down for even a second, I'll miss something important (or leave someone hanging because, come on, we all know these characters are real. Yes, Cass, you're amazing. More amazing than the chicken. Who's also pretty funny.) It's a story, yes, but it's so much more than words on a page. There's heart there on every page. Deep faith and literal laugh out loud humor too. Which somehow totally works.
Such a perfect end/sequel to a trilogy that was already five (six, seven, ten?) stars out of five in my books. Absolutely brilliant and I cannot WAIT to read more from this author. Sign me up for anything she writes. I'm in.
Many thanks to the author for an early copy of the book, which I may have begged for as soon as I heard it was being written. All opinions are most decidedly my own (including my thoughts on the chicken.)
The author has a way of pulling you into the story from the very first page, and not letting you go until long after the book is finished. Seriously, it's been over a week and (and a few other books) I'm still thinking about this story. I love the adventure, the language, the depth, the romance, the subtle yet somehow so hard-hitting themes, the tension and wonder on every page - not so much that I can't handle the read but the perfect amount to make me positive if I put the book down for even a second, I'll miss something important (or leave someone hanging because, come on, we all know these characters are real. Yes, Cass, you're amazing. More amazing than the chicken. Who's also pretty funny.) It's a story, yes, but it's so much more than words on a page. There's heart there on every page. Deep faith and literal laugh out loud humor too. Which somehow totally works.
Such a perfect end/sequel to a trilogy that was already five (six, seven, ten?) stars out of five in my books. Absolutely brilliant and I cannot WAIT to read more from this author. Sign me up for anything she writes. I'm in.
Many thanks to the author for an early copy of the book, which I may have begged for as soon as I heard it was being written. All opinions are most decidedly my own (including my thoughts on the chicken.)
April 17, 2025
Caligo is a follow up book for the Nightingale Trilogy & follows the story of Cass & Zaire, after they leave Caldera. Cass was a major character in the first book, & a favorite of mine, so I was glad to see him learning and growing in spite of heartache. Like the series, this has some deep themes like redemption, grace & self sacrifice. It has some monsters we don’t see in the trilogy, as it takes place outside of Caldera in the Bonelands. Fischer is gifted with beautiful prose & deep themes, & Caligo has both. I didn’t give it a full 5 stars (4 3/4, because there was a lot to explain about new monsters, magic & culture in the book, combined with filling the reader in on information from the trilogy left the book with a little more tell, and less show. I am quite pleased to see both Zaire & Cass get a happy ending, as well as Spartan getting a gf. Yep, that’s right. Now, you’ve gotta read it!!
October 23, 2025
MARVELOUS follow up to the Nightingale Trilogy!! I loved seeing the continuation of Cass's arc, learning more about Zaire, and of course seeing Spartan again. All the characters grew in such beautiful ways! The romance was super well done and well earned, and I loved how it turned out. And also, I loved Synth. Because who doesn't?
I also really liked how this story seemed to address some real issues in our society today, even if it's fantasy or extreme versions of what's going on. It was both nuanced and boldly honest, and I respect that a lot.
I also really liked how this story seemed to address some real issues in our society today, even if it's fantasy or extreme versions of what's going on. It was both nuanced and boldly honest, and I respect that a lot.
May 21, 2025
Oh my goodness! This will break your heart and put it back together again. It was full of a powerful message of the gospel that we all need to hear.
May 21, 2025
(If you haven't read The Nightingale Trilogy, read with caution, because I couldn't avoid some vague spoilers of the last book.)
If you were to ask me which I like better, The Nightingale Trilogy (featuring Calor, Lumen, and Memoria) or its sequel standalone, Caligo, I honestly don’t know if I could choose between the two. They’re on the exact same level of the same shelf, albeit in different categories. So please don’t ask me to choose.
Instead, let me tell you why I loved Caligo ALMOST more than The Nightingale Trilogy:
1. Cass
If you’ve read The Nightingale Trilogy, you know Cass’s character: sharp-witted, sarcastic, more than a little charming (gotta love that devil-may-care attitude), and, deep down, with a good heart beneath the flirting and, um, sometimes questionable morals.
Now imagine a whole book of Cass. Yes, that’s right. An entire, 100,000-word book rich with Cass’s glib wit, droll comments, and laugh-out-loud one-liners. Yet before you hesitate over Cass’s flaws, know that this Cass is not the same Cass of the trilogy; that surface charm has been worn thin, almost away entirely, by hurt from Sephone’s rejection and the reality of his own mortality, showing us a humbler, more serious, and even frightened Cass beneath.
From conversations in Lumen and Memoria, it’s not a surprise that his time with Sephone, ill-fated as it may have been, was good for Cass. He says so in his own words. What DID surprise me was this next story: where he goes after watching the woman he loves marry another, and how he comes to terms with himself, his gift, and his curse. To say more would be to give spoilers, so let me put it this way: this story is as authentic to Cass’s character as it is to Fischer’s writing. It’s perfect, believable, thought-provoking, and satisfying.
2. Zaire
Cass as one POV character makes this book great already. What also makes it great is the other main POV character: Zaire Delmar. I won’t say too much about why she’s in the book, because that would spoil what you’ll learn for yourself in the first few chapters. But I will say she’s the perfect counterpart—perhaps the perfect main character—for this story. Exotically beautiful in one form, terrifyingly powerful and ruthless in another. Which one is the real Zaire?
It takes a lot of story—adventures, dangers, encounters, struggles, and other characters—to help Zaire learn more about herself and, like Cass, understand how to move on beyond her past. She faces hurt and vulnerability that any reader can relate to, and her own journey toward truth will resonate with—and offer hope to—many readers as well.
As for the other part of her story, well, let’s just say Cassius Vera has met his match at last. I really liked the way their stories intertwine, with more fire and grit than Sephone and Dorian, and more boots-on-the-ground action as they deal with each other and deal with events together. Both their forward momentum is gradual, natural, and with plenty of (also natural) steps back along the way. By the end, though . . . it couldn’t be more perfect.
3. The Other Characters
I don’t want to say much here either, because I want you to enjoy the same surprise and delight I did the first time I read Caligo. But know that Cass and Zaire are not the only characters from the trilogy you’ll see again in this book. Some you’ll like, some you won’t, but they all deepen the story—and have their own stories deepened—in authentic, credible ways.
4. The Themes
One theme explores the various facets of human relationships and their role in the human heart: what it means to be strong, to be weak, to be independent, to need others, to love, to be loved. Cass and Zaire balance this theme well as they respectively struggle to understand the truth, beauty, and freedom of wholesome relationships with good people (romantic and otherwise), compared to the lies they’ve told themselves and have been told by others over the years. Many readers will relate to and find encouragement in these layers of the story.
Another theme relates to the monstrosity of humanity, in ourselves and in others, and facing and overcoming our pasts. Cass isn’t perfect. Neither is Zaire. (Neither, in fact, is any other character in this book. Well, Aedon, but as one of the Infinitum, he doesn’t count.) Both these characters especially must come to terms with what they’ve done and make moral choices in response to the actions of others. Caligo portrays honestly some deep darkness of the human heart, while also showing the light of hope and redemption that cannot come from ourselves. This light gleams more brightly through the pages of Caligo than in most other Christian fiction I’ve read.
A final theme I took from this book is somewhat related to the first theme, couched in the specific context of feminism. Again, I won’t give details because I don’t want to spoil your reading experience, but suffice to say, the Virago aren’t just a group of women fighting to survive; they’re a cult, representing the false doctrine, deceit, and gross crimes of today’s extreme feminism. While these women despise men and call them oppressors, throughout the entire story (this makes me want to cheer) we see strong male characters acting in kindness, compassion, sacrifice, loyalty, gentleness, and love, while also wielding weapons and fighting monsters and being handsome—not-so-subtly challenging this false view of their sex. As a woman, I LOVED reading about these men as protectors, defenders, and strong companions to their female counterparts, portraying the beauty of God’s design for the different genders. (I read Caligo while I was finishing Rosaria Butterfield’s Five Lies of Our Anti-Christian Age, and the two books could not have been more complementary.)
One last note: while The Nightingale Trilogy explores the theme of sorrow, its cost on those who carry it, and the way Aedon can relieve it, Caligo delves even deeper into these ideas through Cass’s personal character journey. When Aedon (a representation of Jesus) visits Cass for the last time in the dark grime of his prison cell . . . I cried. It was so beautiful, so powerful, so gently, intimately true to Scripture’s depiction of Christ as the man who bears our sorrows. Even though our world doesn’t have the magic gifts of Fischer’s imagined land (more’s the pity), I borrowed this visualization into my own relationship with Jesus, and it really ministered to me through a time of hurt.
So there you go. If you've read and enjoyed The Nightingale Trilogy, you'll love Caligo. If you've never heard of The Nightingale Trilogy, you'll also love Caligo---you don't need to have read the trilogy to understand and enjoy this standalone sequel novel.
Now that I've written this review, don't tell anyone, but I think . . . *hides behind Caligo and whispers* I think the scales have tipped just a little in favor of Caligo. Seph and Dorian are great and all, but give me Cass and Zaire---and their featherduster---any day. :)
If you were to ask me which I like better, The Nightingale Trilogy (featuring Calor, Lumen, and Memoria) or its sequel standalone, Caligo, I honestly don’t know if I could choose between the two. They’re on the exact same level of the same shelf, albeit in different categories. So please don’t ask me to choose.
Instead, let me tell you why I loved Caligo ALMOST more than The Nightingale Trilogy:
1. Cass
If you’ve read The Nightingale Trilogy, you know Cass’s character: sharp-witted, sarcastic, more than a little charming (gotta love that devil-may-care attitude), and, deep down, with a good heart beneath the flirting and, um, sometimes questionable morals.
Now imagine a whole book of Cass. Yes, that’s right. An entire, 100,000-word book rich with Cass’s glib wit, droll comments, and laugh-out-loud one-liners. Yet before you hesitate over Cass’s flaws, know that this Cass is not the same Cass of the trilogy; that surface charm has been worn thin, almost away entirely, by hurt from Sephone’s rejection and the reality of his own mortality, showing us a humbler, more serious, and even frightened Cass beneath.
From conversations in Lumen and Memoria, it’s not a surprise that his time with Sephone, ill-fated as it may have been, was good for Cass. He says so in his own words. What DID surprise me was this next story: where he goes after watching the woman he loves marry another, and how he comes to terms with himself, his gift, and his curse. To say more would be to give spoilers, so let me put it this way: this story is as authentic to Cass’s character as it is to Fischer’s writing. It’s perfect, believable, thought-provoking, and satisfying.
2. Zaire
Cass as one POV character makes this book great already. What also makes it great is the other main POV character: Zaire Delmar. I won’t say too much about why she’s in the book, because that would spoil what you’ll learn for yourself in the first few chapters. But I will say she’s the perfect counterpart—perhaps the perfect main character—for this story. Exotically beautiful in one form, terrifyingly powerful and ruthless in another. Which one is the real Zaire?
It takes a lot of story—adventures, dangers, encounters, struggles, and other characters—to help Zaire learn more about herself and, like Cass, understand how to move on beyond her past. She faces hurt and vulnerability that any reader can relate to, and her own journey toward truth will resonate with—and offer hope to—many readers as well.
As for the other part of her story, well, let’s just say Cassius Vera has met his match at last. I really liked the way their stories intertwine, with more fire and grit than Sephone and Dorian, and more boots-on-the-ground action as they deal with each other and deal with events together. Both their forward momentum is gradual, natural, and with plenty of (also natural) steps back along the way. By the end, though . . . it couldn’t be more perfect.
3. The Other Characters
I don’t want to say much here either, because I want you to enjoy the same surprise and delight I did the first time I read Caligo. But know that Cass and Zaire are not the only characters from the trilogy you’ll see again in this book. Some you’ll like, some you won’t, but they all deepen the story—and have their own stories deepened—in authentic, credible ways.
4. The Themes
One theme explores the various facets of human relationships and their role in the human heart: what it means to be strong, to be weak, to be independent, to need others, to love, to be loved. Cass and Zaire balance this theme well as they respectively struggle to understand the truth, beauty, and freedom of wholesome relationships with good people (romantic and otherwise), compared to the lies they’ve told themselves and have been told by others over the years. Many readers will relate to and find encouragement in these layers of the story.
Another theme relates to the monstrosity of humanity, in ourselves and in others, and facing and overcoming our pasts. Cass isn’t perfect. Neither is Zaire. (Neither, in fact, is any other character in this book. Well, Aedon, but as one of the Infinitum, he doesn’t count.) Both these characters especially must come to terms with what they’ve done and make moral choices in response to the actions of others. Caligo portrays honestly some deep darkness of the human heart, while also showing the light of hope and redemption that cannot come from ourselves. This light gleams more brightly through the pages of Caligo than in most other Christian fiction I’ve read.
A final theme I took from this book is somewhat related to the first theme, couched in the specific context of feminism. Again, I won’t give details because I don’t want to spoil your reading experience, but suffice to say, the Virago aren’t just a group of women fighting to survive; they’re a cult, representing the false doctrine, deceit, and gross crimes of today’s extreme feminism. While these women despise men and call them oppressors, throughout the entire story (this makes me want to cheer) we see strong male characters acting in kindness, compassion, sacrifice, loyalty, gentleness, and love, while also wielding weapons and fighting monsters and being handsome—not-so-subtly challenging this false view of their sex. As a woman, I LOVED reading about these men as protectors, defenders, and strong companions to their female counterparts, portraying the beauty of God’s design for the different genders. (I read Caligo while I was finishing Rosaria Butterfield’s Five Lies of Our Anti-Christian Age, and the two books could not have been more complementary.)
One last note: while The Nightingale Trilogy explores the theme of sorrow, its cost on those who carry it, and the way Aedon can relieve it, Caligo delves even deeper into these ideas through Cass’s personal character journey. When Aedon (a representation of Jesus) visits Cass for the last time in the dark grime of his prison cell . . . I cried. It was so beautiful, so powerful, so gently, intimately true to Scripture’s depiction of Christ as the man who bears our sorrows. Even though our world doesn’t have the magic gifts of Fischer’s imagined land (more’s the pity), I borrowed this visualization into my own relationship with Jesus, and it really ministered to me through a time of hurt.
So there you go. If you've read and enjoyed The Nightingale Trilogy, you'll love Caligo. If you've never heard of The Nightingale Trilogy, you'll also love Caligo---you don't need to have read the trilogy to understand and enjoy this standalone sequel novel.
Now that I've written this review, don't tell anyone, but I think . . . *hides behind Caligo and whispers* I think the scales have tipped just a little in favor of Caligo. Seph and Dorian are great and all, but give me Cass and Zaire---and their featherduster---any day. :)
April 13, 2025
🛑*If you have not read The Nightingale Trilogy, I recommend not reading my review nor the book blurb as there are major spoilers for that trilogy in both.*🛑
Not everyone gets their happily-ever-after, but of all characters I have read who really needed to have one, Cass is at the top of the list. He did not get his HEA in the last book of The Nightingale Trilogy, and I was both relieved that the author didn't wrap up his story so easily and dismayed that Cass was left to drift away unredeemed.
Until I read the author's note at the end and found out that she had a plan for Cass!💜 Caligo is that plan, and I am pleased to have been an arc reader for this story. (While I did receive a free ebook, all opinions expressed in this review are solely mine.)
Caligo was a wonderful story that did more than just give Cass his HEA. Cass is joined by Zaire and also Spartan and Kaesie from the trilogy. The author brings them together and delves into a tale of hardship, distrust, and abuse that will be touched by Aedon and radically changed.
👍Things I loved about Caligo:👍
✨I loved getting to know Zaire (the FMC) and her backstory.
✨I loved having Cass's POV for the first time. (He's such a great character!)
✨I loved that the author kept things realistic in terms of hard-won redemption arcs.
✨I loved that Cass has grown since his time with Sephone and Dorian, but that he still needs redemption. In other ways, Cass is still Cass in both the bad ways and the good ways.
✨A person doesn't know s/he needs a Savior until they understand they are dying in sin. The author brings that truth to light in the prologue that answered a question I had about something in the trilogy. Something happened in Caligo's prologue that demonstrated that Cass was on Aedon's path for him. I got chills when I read that part of the prologue.💜
✨The story had good pacing, and Fischer's beautiful writing style was on display.
For all that I loved about the characters and story, I felt as though Caligo was a little "loose" in the editing department. It sometimes felt disjointed in switching POVs, 🛑🛑🛑🛑🛑🛑, and I felt that this story needed an epilogue showing us what happened when they 🛑🛑🛑🛑🛑🛑 I also would have loved to have seen a redeemed Cass reunited with Dorian and Sephone.
However, despite the few things I would have liked to have seen improved or different, I was thrilled with the story and its message which is deeply rooted in redemption, God's love for and pursuit of his people, and the beauty God makes out of ashes. Fischer is now an auto-buy author for me!
Not everyone gets their happily-ever-after, but of all characters I have read who really needed to have one, Cass is at the top of the list. He did not get his HEA in the last book of The Nightingale Trilogy, and I was both relieved that the author didn't wrap up his story so easily and dismayed that Cass was left to drift away unredeemed.
Until I read the author's note at the end and found out that she had a plan for Cass!💜 Caligo is that plan, and I am pleased to have been an arc reader for this story. (While I did receive a free ebook, all opinions expressed in this review are solely mine.)
Caligo was a wonderful story that did more than just give Cass his HEA. Cass is joined by Zaire and also Spartan and Kaesie from the trilogy. The author brings them together and delves into a tale of hardship, distrust, and abuse that will be touched by Aedon and radically changed.
👍Things I loved about Caligo:👍
✨I loved getting to know Zaire (the FMC) and her backstory.
✨I loved having Cass's POV for the first time. (He's such a great character!)
✨I loved that the author kept things realistic in terms of hard-won redemption arcs.
✨I loved that Cass has grown since his time with Sephone and Dorian, but that he still needs redemption. In other ways, Cass is still Cass in both the bad ways and the good ways.
✨A person doesn't know s/he needs a Savior until they understand they are dying in sin. The author brings that truth to light in the prologue that answered a question I had about something in the trilogy. Something happened in Caligo's prologue that demonstrated that Cass was on Aedon's path for him. I got chills when I read that part of the prologue.💜
✨The story had good pacing, and Fischer's beautiful writing style was on display.
For all that I loved about the characters and story, I felt as though Caligo was a little "loose" in the editing department. It sometimes felt disjointed in switching POVs, 🛑🛑🛑🛑🛑🛑, and I felt that this story needed an epilogue showing us what happened when they 🛑🛑🛑🛑🛑🛑 I also would have loved to have seen a redeemed Cass reunited with Dorian and Sephone.
However, despite the few things I would have liked to have seen improved or different, I was thrilled with the story and its message which is deeply rooted in redemption, God's love for and pursuit of his people, and the beauty God makes out of ashes. Fischer is now an auto-buy author for me!
June 26, 2025
What can I say about this book?
I am so happy that Fischer wrote it. Cass's story was left unfinished in the Nightingale Trilogy and needed to be told. And I wasn't disappointed!
To be honest, I was a little hesitant going into Caligo. I loved Cass in the Nightingale Trilogy, but I was a bit worried that I wouldn't like Zaire. I just didn't think I would like her as the love interest for Cass. I shouldn't have worried. Fischer is a fantastic writer and she pulled off what I thought was going to be impossible! I ended up really liking Zaire. She has had a hard life, being used as a weapon by others, and had deep personal struggles. She was strong on the outside, but had a vulnerability that made you want to give her a hug.
Cass was his delightful self. Struggling with losing the woman he loved, and trying to hide his truth-telling gift, he is eager to escape his old life. He never expects to meet Zaire, and her sidekick chicken on his travels. When they are forced to help each other, a bond forms between them, but with two broken hearts, they are cautious about letting the other in.
What I love most about Cass is just how fiercely loyal and protective he is.
There was an addition of some characters from the Nightingale Trilogy I wasn't expecting. And one I was very glad to see. Spartan is one of my favourite characters and I was so excited that he was in this book. His story was so sweet and perfect!
The chicken was also a standout, as all animal sidekicks should be. The interactions between him and Cass were hilarious.
My favourite part of this book was the redemption arc for Cass and Zaire. For me, it was even more powerful than the redemption arc for Dorian and Sephone as they had further to go to be redeemed because of they way they had chosen to live.
After reading the Nightingale Trilogy I should have known this was going to be a wild ride. I wasn't expecting anything that happened in this book, and I loved that. (It's much more fun that way.)
It was such a deep, powerful and impactful story. And of course there was an edge of your seat ending! I was left wanting more! This is definitely one not to be missed.
Content warning: This was clean with no swearing or spice. There is some violence and mention of infanticide. (But done tastefully without unnecessary excess.)
#I received an eARC copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. I also brought a physical copy so I can have this beautiful book on my shelf next to my copies of the Nightingale Trilogy.
I am so happy that Fischer wrote it. Cass's story was left unfinished in the Nightingale Trilogy and needed to be told. And I wasn't disappointed!
To be honest, I was a little hesitant going into Caligo. I loved Cass in the Nightingale Trilogy, but I was a bit worried that I wouldn't like Zaire. I just didn't think I would like her as the love interest for Cass. I shouldn't have worried. Fischer is a fantastic writer and she pulled off what I thought was going to be impossible! I ended up really liking Zaire. She has had a hard life, being used as a weapon by others, and had deep personal struggles. She was strong on the outside, but had a vulnerability that made you want to give her a hug.
Cass was his delightful self. Struggling with losing the woman he loved, and trying to hide his truth-telling gift, he is eager to escape his old life. He never expects to meet Zaire, and her sidekick chicken on his travels. When they are forced to help each other, a bond forms between them, but with two broken hearts, they are cautious about letting the other in.
What I love most about Cass is just how fiercely loyal and protective he is.
There was an addition of some characters from the Nightingale Trilogy I wasn't expecting. And one I was very glad to see. Spartan is one of my favourite characters and I was so excited that he was in this book. His story was so sweet and perfect!
The chicken was also a standout, as all animal sidekicks should be. The interactions between him and Cass were hilarious.
My favourite part of this book was the redemption arc for Cass and Zaire. For me, it was even more powerful than the redemption arc for Dorian and Sephone as they had further to go to be redeemed because of they way they had chosen to live.
After reading the Nightingale Trilogy I should have known this was going to be a wild ride. I wasn't expecting anything that happened in this book, and I loved that. (It's much more fun that way.)
It was such a deep, powerful and impactful story. And of course there was an edge of your seat ending! I was left wanting more! This is definitely one not to be missed.
Content warning: This was clean with no swearing or spice. There is some violence and mention of infanticide. (But done tastefully without unnecessary excess.)
#I received an eARC copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. I also brought a physical copy so I can have this beautiful book on my shelf next to my copies of the Nightingale Trilogy.
May 16, 2025
Caligo is a spinoff/sequel to the Nightingale Trilogy. It can be read on its own but you would majorly spoil the three previous books, so highly recommend you read those first!
Stop here if you have not read the Nightingale Trilogy as my review will contain spoilers for the previous books. Seriously go read them! You will not regret it!
The Nightingale Trilogy is very character driven, whereas Caligo feels a little more plot driving the story. Not to say Caligo does not have the same amazing character growth we have seen in Fischers writing previously. Infact the growth of the characters in Caligo is possibly my favorite part! Caligo also feels way faster paced, it has more violence as well. The violence is not super descriptive and all lends itself to the plot. Caligo does have some heavy themes that might lend it to a slightly higher age recommendation than the previous books. Where the Nightingale Trilogy I would say is fine for as young as around 14-15 this book I would say more 16-17.
*This bit contains minor spoilers. If you are the person who does not even like to read the back cover blurb probably stop here.*
Caligo might be my favorite of the series so far. Something I find pretty funny considering I did not like Cass in Nightingale. I love his character arc though now! He grows and learns so much. Caligo very much is a book about what it is to be human, to be male and female created equal but different. Cass learns to be a man, Zaire learns to be woman. They both learn the importance of each other and how a true relationship builds and bolsters each other. Even outside of a relationship Cass learns what being a true good man is supposed to be. That's right! Cassius Vera learns what it means to be truly selfless!
I was not sure how I felt about Zaire at the beginning of the book. I can see now how perfect she is for both Cass and the plot. I won't mention to much but wow her story! I am so glad we get to delve into her character. Zaire was a pretty minor character in the previous books, reading Caligo will make you rethink some things for sure. Zaire thinks she is strong but here she finds her true strength.
Caligo explores a different land where the people reacted differently to the end of the world that was. This book is much more heartbreaking and has more of a post apocalypse feel. I hesitate to say more for fear of spoilers.... but I REALLY want to!
The new land and new creatures was a great addition to the series! Especially the creatures! There are so many possibilities for more books now! (please, please write more books!). For being a standalone Caligo sure has some loose ends. I very much want to know what happens to the people of the Boneland, why are Cass and Zaire needed back in Caldera? What happens to certain characters I will not mention as that would be a spoiler! This is a book that will keep you up late reading and not let you go once you are done.
I received an arc copy of Caligo from the author. My opinions, as always, are my own.... especially about Cass 🤣.
Stop here if you have not read the Nightingale Trilogy as my review will contain spoilers for the previous books. Seriously go read them! You will not regret it!
The Nightingale Trilogy is very character driven, whereas Caligo feels a little more plot driving the story. Not to say Caligo does not have the same amazing character growth we have seen in Fischers writing previously. Infact the growth of the characters in Caligo is possibly my favorite part! Caligo also feels way faster paced, it has more violence as well. The violence is not super descriptive and all lends itself to the plot. Caligo does have some heavy themes that might lend it to a slightly higher age recommendation than the previous books. Where the Nightingale Trilogy I would say is fine for as young as around 14-15 this book I would say more 16-17.
*This bit contains minor spoilers. If you are the person who does not even like to read the back cover blurb probably stop here.*
Caligo might be my favorite of the series so far. Something I find pretty funny considering I did not like Cass in Nightingale. I love his character arc though now! He grows and learns so much. Caligo very much is a book about what it is to be human, to be male and female created equal but different. Cass learns to be a man, Zaire learns to be woman. They both learn the importance of each other and how a true relationship builds and bolsters each other. Even outside of a relationship Cass learns what being a true good man is supposed to be. That's right! Cassius Vera learns what it means to be truly selfless!
I was not sure how I felt about Zaire at the beginning of the book. I can see now how perfect she is for both Cass and the plot. I won't mention to much but wow her story! I am so glad we get to delve into her character. Zaire was a pretty minor character in the previous books, reading Caligo will make you rethink some things for sure. Zaire thinks she is strong but here she finds her true strength.
Caligo explores a different land where the people reacted differently to the end of the world that was. This book is much more heartbreaking and has more of a post apocalypse feel. I hesitate to say more for fear of spoilers.... but I REALLY want to!
The new land and new creatures was a great addition to the series! Especially the creatures! There are so many possibilities for more books now! (please, please write more books!). For being a standalone Caligo sure has some loose ends. I very much want to know what happens to the people of the Boneland, why are Cass and Zaire needed back in Caldera? What happens to certain characters I will not mention as that would be a spoiler! This is a book that will keep you up late reading and not let you go once you are done.
I received an arc copy of Caligo from the author. My opinions, as always, are my own.... especially about Cass 🤣.
August 2, 2025
A handsome and sarcastic rouge, a beautiful yet hideous werebeast, and a colorful chicken embark on a unique adventure into the bone lands.
Cassius Vera decides the best way to heal his rejected heart is to return to the seas and find a new life, away from women and the strange alter that seems to enjoy making his life a shipwreck.
Zaire Delmar feels her new kingdom to mourn the death of her only love. She stows away on a ship with the last gift he ever gave her, a chicken-like bird said to be gifted in telling prophecy.
These two gray-hearted souls encounter each other and though they would rather live the other marooned, they are forced to work together to keep their alter abilities secret, so they won’t even up enslaved yet again to power-hungry mercenaries.
Their journey takes an unexpected twist when they find an old enemy among a tribe of women in the bone lands.
Caligo is a standalone novel tied to the Nightingale trilogy. You do not have to read the trilogy ahead of time but you may get a few spoils if you start here.
I thoroughly enjoyed this sequel and following Cass on his seemingly never-ending journey to find his place in the world. His sarcasm and charm always leave me spell bound but now that Zaire is in the mix he is about to get a run for his money!
I am so happy J. J. Fischer wrapped up these and other characters' stories that were left slightly ambiguous at the end of Memoria. I do have to say though, that end dedication made me choke up.
J.J. Fischer, like me and so many other women, deals with infertility and decided to weave her story into her characters in a beautiful way that encourages and strengthens those on this seemingly never-ending struggle.
Thank you for sharing your story as well as Cass and Zaire’s!
Scoresheet:
Category: YA/NA Dystopian fantasy
Spice/Romance: Clean read/No spice. Only a brief mention of intercourse without marriage from a characters past.
Violence: No excessive gore. Death, broken bones, and some blood prevalent.
Morals/Worldview: Christian worldview. Good morals.
Recommended reading age: 16+
Cassius Vera decides the best way to heal his rejected heart is to return to the seas and find a new life, away from women and the strange alter that seems to enjoy making his life a shipwreck.
Zaire Delmar feels her new kingdom to mourn the death of her only love. She stows away on a ship with the last gift he ever gave her, a chicken-like bird said to be gifted in telling prophecy.
These two gray-hearted souls encounter each other and though they would rather live the other marooned, they are forced to work together to keep their alter abilities secret, so they won’t even up enslaved yet again to power-hungry mercenaries.
Their journey takes an unexpected twist when they find an old enemy among a tribe of women in the bone lands.
Caligo is a standalone novel tied to the Nightingale trilogy. You do not have to read the trilogy ahead of time but you may get a few spoils if you start here.
I thoroughly enjoyed this sequel and following Cass on his seemingly never-ending journey to find his place in the world. His sarcasm and charm always leave me spell bound but now that Zaire is in the mix he is about to get a run for his money!
I am so happy J. J. Fischer wrapped up these and other characters' stories that were left slightly ambiguous at the end of Memoria. I do have to say though, that end dedication made me choke up.
J.J. Fischer, like me and so many other women, deals with infertility and decided to weave her story into her characters in a beautiful way that encourages and strengthens those on this seemingly never-ending struggle.
Thank you for sharing your story as well as Cass and Zaire’s!
Scoresheet:
Category: YA/NA Dystopian fantasy
Spice/Romance: Clean read/No spice. Only a brief mention of intercourse without marriage from a characters past.
Violence: No excessive gore. Death, broken bones, and some blood prevalent.
Morals/Worldview: Christian worldview. Good morals.
Recommended reading age: 16+
April 30, 2025
Overall Rating: 5/5
Literary Value: 5/5 Caligo isn’t a literary book (by which I mean the prose serves the plot and not vice versa), but it has a lot of literary value. The prose is both clear and beautiful, and the vocabulary used is neither simplistic nor overly complicated.
Worldview: 5/5 I didn’t disagree with anything in the author’s worldview. I will say, Caligo has a lot of religious elements in it (never preachy, though). I personally enjoy theology in fiction, but if you’re not a fan of that, Caligo might not be your new favorite book.
Enjoyability: 5/5 I absolutely loved this book. I read it on my laptop (because I was reading the e-ARC) and I hate reading books as PDFs on my laptop… and I still loved it. If you haven’t read The Nightingale Trilogy, it might take a little longer to get into Caligo, but you should still find it enjoyable. The plot and pacing held my interest without fail (including keeping me up late two nights in a row right before a plane flight!), and the characters felt very nuanced and human. I really enjoyed all of The Nightingale Trilogy, but it has been incredible to watch the author’s skills grow with each book! I can’t wait to see what she writes next….
Caveats: Caligo is intended for an adult audience, and so it does go into some darker subject matter, including infertility and infanticide. I also found the violence to be slightly higher than the other books in The Nightingale Trilogy. That being said, since Caligo is by a Christian author, the darkness is never excessive or gratuitous, but well-balanced by hope and faith. As far as other content goes, there was no language or sexual content. A main character’s previous unchastity is mentioned, but not glorified. There is some romance (noticing a character is attractive, brief kisses, etc.), which was very tastefully done. I’d recommend Caligo for 15+ because of the discussion of infertility and infanticide, but a mature 13-year-old would probably enjoy it also.
Literary Value: 5/5 Caligo isn’t a literary book (by which I mean the prose serves the plot and not vice versa), but it has a lot of literary value. The prose is both clear and beautiful, and the vocabulary used is neither simplistic nor overly complicated.
Worldview: 5/5 I didn’t disagree with anything in the author’s worldview. I will say, Caligo has a lot of religious elements in it (never preachy, though). I personally enjoy theology in fiction, but if you’re not a fan of that, Caligo might not be your new favorite book.
Enjoyability: 5/5 I absolutely loved this book. I read it on my laptop (because I was reading the e-ARC) and I hate reading books as PDFs on my laptop… and I still loved it. If you haven’t read The Nightingale Trilogy, it might take a little longer to get into Caligo, but you should still find it enjoyable. The plot and pacing held my interest without fail (including keeping me up late two nights in a row right before a plane flight!), and the characters felt very nuanced and human. I really enjoyed all of The Nightingale Trilogy, but it has been incredible to watch the author’s skills grow with each book! I can’t wait to see what she writes next….
Caveats: Caligo is intended for an adult audience, and so it does go into some darker subject matter, including infertility and infanticide. I also found the violence to be slightly higher than the other books in The Nightingale Trilogy. That being said, since Caligo is by a Christian author, the darkness is never excessive or gratuitous, but well-balanced by hope and faith. As far as other content goes, there was no language or sexual content. A main character’s previous unchastity is mentioned, but not glorified. There is some romance (noticing a character is attractive, brief kisses, etc.), which was very tastefully done. I’d recommend Caligo for 15+ because of the discussion of infertility and infanticide, but a mature 13-year-old would probably enjoy it also.
May 15, 2025
Cassius Vera is running from his past and his pain, but for all his charm, he can't run from his problems. Especially when the ship he chooses for his escape carries an all-too-familiar stowaway and a rooster bound to be the death of him.
When he and his fellow runaways land themselves on a desert island, they must form a tentative alliance to survive the dangers of the wilderness. The sands hide monsters and secrets, and deep underground lies a darkness as deadly as the poison inking Cass's veins. How far will Cass go to protect an enemy-turned-friend? What will it take to overcome the most dangerous beast of all, the monster lurking within the heart?
Caligo is a fantastic sequel to The Nightingale Trilogy, wrapping up Cass's story, as well as the tales of a few other favorite characters from the series. This character-driven adventure twists with intrigue, as Cass and his companions uncover truths that many in the desert would do anything to keep buried. Witty banter and daring rescues mark the journey, and a budding love story grows from a hesitant friendship to deep trust. This is the perfect story for anyone who loves sassy characters, immersive worldbuilding, and/ or slightly-magical roosters.
For a full review, visit: https://litwyrm.com/book-review-calig...
***
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. (Including my great obsession with this whole series!)
When he and his fellow runaways land themselves on a desert island, they must form a tentative alliance to survive the dangers of the wilderness. The sands hide monsters and secrets, and deep underground lies a darkness as deadly as the poison inking Cass's veins. How far will Cass go to protect an enemy-turned-friend? What will it take to overcome the most dangerous beast of all, the monster lurking within the heart?
Caligo is a fantastic sequel to The Nightingale Trilogy, wrapping up Cass's story, as well as the tales of a few other favorite characters from the series. This character-driven adventure twists with intrigue, as Cass and his companions uncover truths that many in the desert would do anything to keep buried. Witty banter and daring rescues mark the journey, and a budding love story grows from a hesitant friendship to deep trust. This is the perfect story for anyone who loves sassy characters, immersive worldbuilding, and/ or slightly-magical roosters.
For a full review, visit: https://litwyrm.com/book-review-calig...
***
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. (Including my great obsession with this whole series!)
April 28, 2025
SO. SO. GOOD.
Caligo was SUCH a satisfying conclusion to Cass's story, as well as all the other characters we loved from Memoria who came back into this novel.
Let me be real for a second: I liked Cass in Lumen. I didn't like him much in Memoria, lol. BUT I was stoked for this book because I wanted him to have a real arc. Somewhere along the way in Caligo, I truly loved him as a character more than I ever did in the Nightingale Trilogy. 🥹
AND...ZAIRE!!! Oh my gosh, I loved her so much. My heart ached for her on every single page. And the dynamic between her and Cass was pure GOLD. I think I laughed out loud repeatedly while reading and also melted into my chair at other times.
Just like Memoria, Caligo had incredible spiritual moments of redemptive encounters and, WOW! Nobody writes those like JJ Fischer. I just want to reread those scenes from Memoria and Caligo over and over again. They are amazing.
And finally, I can't complete this review without mentioning Synth/the feather duster/the prophetic chicken. Animal companion characters don't always sit well with me, but this one rocked. 😆 Not overdone, it was just right. And Synth was the best kind of companion chicken.
A resounding five stars all around. I would love to remain in this series forever. (Another spin-off, JJ Fischer...maybe?? 😉)
Caligo was SUCH a satisfying conclusion to Cass's story, as well as all the other characters we loved from Memoria who came back into this novel.
Let me be real for a second: I liked Cass in Lumen. I didn't like him much in Memoria, lol. BUT I was stoked for this book because I wanted him to have a real arc. Somewhere along the way in Caligo, I truly loved him as a character more than I ever did in the Nightingale Trilogy. 🥹
AND...ZAIRE!!! Oh my gosh, I loved her so much. My heart ached for her on every single page. And the dynamic between her and Cass was pure GOLD. I think I laughed out loud repeatedly while reading and also melted into my chair at other times.
Just like Memoria, Caligo had incredible spiritual moments of redemptive encounters and, WOW! Nobody writes those like JJ Fischer. I just want to reread those scenes from Memoria and Caligo over and over again. They are amazing.
And finally, I can't complete this review without mentioning Synth/the feather duster/the prophetic chicken. Animal companion characters don't always sit well with me, but this one rocked. 😆 Not overdone, it was just right. And Synth was the best kind of companion chicken.
A resounding five stars all around. I would love to remain in this series forever. (Another spin-off, JJ Fischer...maybe?? 😉)
April 30, 2025
I rarely pre-order books.
But there have been two exceptions within the past couple of years, and both by the same author.
Lumen.
And Caligo.
Both by the amazing J. J. Fischer!
And both, I admit, because of the same character: Cassius Vera. Cass intrigued me from the very beginning with his hidden depths (and visible sass!), and I was thrilled to bits when I heard he was getting his very own book! And SUPER THRILLED to receive an e-arc of what is - quite frankly - my most anticipated read for the year.
And Caligo DID NOT DISAPPOINT.
********mild spoilers for the Nightingale Trilogy ahead********
It has heart, adventure, humour, and a chicken - can't forget the chicken - and provides a wholly satisfying conclusion for the stories of Cass, Zaire, Spartan and Kaesi. I found the character's individual arcs to be perfectly paced and loved the interactions between Cass, Zaire and Spartan especially.
Caligo is set in a completely new land, which did take some getting used to, and the new characters are quite unlike the ones seen in the original trilogy. But once I got my footing, it was hard not to be intrigued by the people and monsters inhabiting the land.
This was the perfect book to conclude Cass's journey, but - and I cannot emphasise this enough - I'm still hoping for more Cass-ventures to come!
But there have been two exceptions within the past couple of years, and both by the same author.
Lumen.
And Caligo.
Both by the amazing J. J. Fischer!
And both, I admit, because of the same character: Cassius Vera. Cass intrigued me from the very beginning with his hidden depths (and visible sass!), and I was thrilled to bits when I heard he was getting his very own book! And SUPER THRILLED to receive an e-arc of what is - quite frankly - my most anticipated read for the year.
And Caligo DID NOT DISAPPOINT.
********mild spoilers for the Nightingale Trilogy ahead********
It has heart, adventure, humour, and a chicken - can't forget the chicken - and provides a wholly satisfying conclusion for the stories of Cass, Zaire, Spartan and Kaesi. I found the character's individual arcs to be perfectly paced and loved the interactions between Cass, Zaire and Spartan especially.
Caligo is set in a completely new land, which did take some getting used to, and the new characters are quite unlike the ones seen in the original trilogy. But once I got my footing, it was hard not to be intrigued by the people and monsters inhabiting the land.
This was the perfect book to conclude Cass's journey, but - and I cannot emphasise this enough - I'm still hoping for more Cass-ventures to come!
May 5, 2025
Cassius Vera won our hearts and became our friend in the deeply compelling Nightingale Trilogy. Brace yourself for Caligo, as JJ Fischer brings us along with Cass into a deeply heart rending and ultimately heart warming journey through richly imaginative landscapes, surprising layers of plot revelations, soul-changing confrontations with darkness, and relationships filled with betrayal, misunderstanding, compassion, sacrifice, and love. Cass’s charming wit, struggles with truth and sorrow, and brushes with eternal Hope are woven throughout this brilliant story. Other complex, colorful, and even feathery, characters have extraordinary gifts that bless and curse those around them, and become dear to us as they struggle with deep anguish and consider Hope. As Cass faces deadly darkness from within and from without, he discovers…but this is Cass’s story to tell. And you are not going to want to put this book down.
If you feel like you’re a part of this story, it’s because you really are. JJ Fischer’s novel touches our soul because she masterfully mirrors our own reality, our own stories, our loves, our losses, our sorrows, our struggles with darkness, and most importantly, our opportunity to choose the One whose hope, truth, strength, courage, peace, and love outshines, and ultimately, redeems, all.
If you feel like you’re a part of this story, it’s because you really are. JJ Fischer’s novel touches our soul because she masterfully mirrors our own reality, our own stories, our loves, our losses, our sorrows, our struggles with darkness, and most importantly, our opportunity to choose the One whose hope, truth, strength, courage, peace, and love outshines, and ultimately, redeems, all.
May 15, 2025
This sequel to the Nightingale Trilogy was fantastic! Caligo revolves around and resolves the story of one of the main characters from the trilogy, Cassius Vera. I highly recommend reading the first three books in the series before Caligo as they give a deeper insight into the story and characters.
The story follows Cass and Zaire as they are both escaping Caldera to get away from memories and circumstances they want to forget. When they discover they are both aboard the same ship, Cass feels responsible for Zaire and works to protect her from those on the ship that want her gone. After a shipwreck, they are both stranded on what appears to be a desert island but they quickly discover that the land they are stuck on is inhabited by monsters and a community of women who are not welcoming.
Cass and Zaire have to learn to work together to escape the Virago women, and their growing relationship is hard fought for. I was happy to get to see some other secondary characters from the first three books and get some closure for their stories as well. Once I started reading I had to finish quickly to know how it all would end!
Caligo is a fast paced, exciting read that shows the power of friendship, belonging, bravery and redemption. I highly recommend The Nightingale Trilogy and now Caligo!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from J. J. Fischer. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
The story follows Cass and Zaire as they are both escaping Caldera to get away from memories and circumstances they want to forget. When they discover they are both aboard the same ship, Cass feels responsible for Zaire and works to protect her from those on the ship that want her gone. After a shipwreck, they are both stranded on what appears to be a desert island but they quickly discover that the land they are stuck on is inhabited by monsters and a community of women who are not welcoming.
Cass and Zaire have to learn to work together to escape the Virago women, and their growing relationship is hard fought for. I was happy to get to see some other secondary characters from the first three books and get some closure for their stories as well. Once I started reading I had to finish quickly to know how it all would end!
Caligo is a fast paced, exciting read that shows the power of friendship, belonging, bravery and redemption. I highly recommend The Nightingale Trilogy and now Caligo!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from J. J. Fischer. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
May 21, 2025
Hands down, J.J. Fischer knows how to write a fantastic ending! Her well-delivered story starts with intrigue and adventure as Cass and Zaire run from their pasts and find themselves working together to escape from a crew of sailors who despise alters.
I loved getting to know Cass better and it was so much fun to cheer him on in his redemptive journey! I knew it was going to be hard fought, but it was well worth ever moment of struggle as the finale of this book brought me to tears with how good it was.
Seeing a whole new side of Zaire was a fun surprise and it was easy to love her and hope for her to find healing too. I loved her heart and hated seeing people from her past use hurtful words against her. But those scenes made me cheer all the harder for her to find the Truth that would set her free. Caligo is such a beautiful story, with an immensely satisfying ending! J.J. Fischer does a wonderful job weaving her faith into a story and leaving the reader deeply inspired and full of hope.
I highly recommended J.J. Fischer as a must-read author. Her books are beautiful, the message on point, and the story engaging. I’ve come to trust her to deliver an excellent story that challenges me to think deeper and connect with my faith through well-written fiction. Just keep a box of tissues ready for the ending because the well-orchestrated ending will initiate cleansing tears!
I loved getting to know Cass better and it was so much fun to cheer him on in his redemptive journey! I knew it was going to be hard fought, but it was well worth ever moment of struggle as the finale of this book brought me to tears with how good it was.
Seeing a whole new side of Zaire was a fun surprise and it was easy to love her and hope for her to find healing too. I loved her heart and hated seeing people from her past use hurtful words against her. But those scenes made me cheer all the harder for her to find the Truth that would set her free. Caligo is such a beautiful story, with an immensely satisfying ending! J.J. Fischer does a wonderful job weaving her faith into a story and leaving the reader deeply inspired and full of hope.
I highly recommended J.J. Fischer as a must-read author. Her books are beautiful, the message on point, and the story engaging. I’ve come to trust her to deliver an excellent story that challenges me to think deeper and connect with my faith through well-written fiction. Just keep a box of tissues ready for the ending because the well-orchestrated ending will initiate cleansing tears!
April 18, 2025
Caligo is a sequel to The Nightingale Trilogy. It is a continuation…what happens after the original story, but with a couple of the side characters becoming the focus. I would NOT recommend this as a standalone read. There are several important plot twists in the trilogy that are referenced in Caligo, and I believe reading this book first would completely spoil their reveals. Please do yourself a favor and start by reading Calor and the rest of the trilogy first.
But if, like me, you’ve already enjoyed Calor and Lumen and Memoria, and if you’re a fan of Cassius Vera and want to know what happens to him after Memoria, then you’ll definitely want to read Caligo!
I love the world that Fischer has created for this series. Her characters are well-developed. And her stories have depth and intrigue. I especially love that there is a strong faith thread in this series that is also woven into Caligo. It’s beautiful and fits within the world-building perfectly.
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5 stars!!)
As with the original trilogy, I’d recommend this to adult readers (and perhaps some older teens too) who enjoy fantasy or dystopian stories.
I received an ebook ARC of Caligo from the author or publisher. All opinions expressed in this review are my honest thoughts about this book.
But if, like me, you’ve already enjoyed Calor and Lumen and Memoria, and if you’re a fan of Cassius Vera and want to know what happens to him after Memoria, then you’ll definitely want to read Caligo!
I love the world that Fischer has created for this series. Her characters are well-developed. And her stories have depth and intrigue. I especially love that there is a strong faith thread in this series that is also woven into Caligo. It’s beautiful and fits within the world-building perfectly.
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5 stars!!)
As with the original trilogy, I’d recommend this to adult readers (and perhaps some older teens too) who enjoy fantasy or dystopian stories.
I received an ebook ARC of Caligo from the author or publisher. All opinions expressed in this review are my honest thoughts about this book.
May 15, 2025
The Nightingale trilogy re-sparked my interest in fantasy. I don't love all the magic and spells in other books, but the rich worlds and beautiful allegories call to me. Thus, J.J. Fischer has become my go-to fantasy author. I literally clapped when I heard that Cass was getting his own spin-off sequel.
Without giving anything away, I laughed out loud at the main setting of this book. What better place to throw a recovering womanizer! Cass brings everything we already loved about him to the table, yet shows a new depth and development that I wanted for him so bad. (Team Dorian right here.) Zaire made an intriguing and captivating counterpart with her internal—and external—struggles.
This book is so ripe for discussion and deep thought. What lies are we believing or creating about ourselves? Which parts of our identity are we feeding, so to speak? Aedon's presence in this story was achingly beautiful. As always, the Truth within the fiction is what makes Fischer's novel sing.
While you could follow the story without reading the Nightingale trilogy first, the experience will be much richer if you've finished Calor, Lumen, and Memoria before delving into Caligo.
Without giving anything away, I laughed out loud at the main setting of this book. What better place to throw a recovering womanizer! Cass brings everything we already loved about him to the table, yet shows a new depth and development that I wanted for him so bad. (Team Dorian right here.) Zaire made an intriguing and captivating counterpart with her internal—and external—struggles.
This book is so ripe for discussion and deep thought. What lies are we believing or creating about ourselves? Which parts of our identity are we feeding, so to speak? Aedon's presence in this story was achingly beautiful. As always, the Truth within the fiction is what makes Fischer's novel sing.
While you could follow the story without reading the Nightingale trilogy first, the experience will be much richer if you've finished Calor, Lumen, and Memoria before delving into Caligo.
May 19, 2025
Caligo. The perfect sequel and ending for one of my favorite characters from The Nightingale Trilogy, Cass *heart eyes*
Caligo checks my boxes
Enemies to lovers
Fantasy
Faith-based
Redemption
Plot twists
It truly is a story about Cass and Zaire but the surprise appearances of familiar characters (if you have read the trilogy) was the cherry on top of a delicious romantasy sundae.
I did not see the plot twist coming—no spoilers—which is impressive, because I’m usually good at spotting what is to come.
I love the banter between Zaire and Cass and Cass’s feelings for Synth :P .
Even though he is brokenhearted over Sephone, Cass doesn’t lose his signature snark.
Zaire has grown up thinking she’s a monster. She is strong, but insecure. Believing she is unworthy to be loved.
And Synth, well you’ll learn about him.
If you have read The Nightingale Trilogy, you will enjoy the expansion of the world. Caligo takes place on a completely different island, with new monsters and magic.
Caligo is a story of love, not just romance, but loving and forgiving yourself and others. It’s a story of healing and accepting with a good dose of adventure and snark.
Caligo checks my boxes
Enemies to lovers
Fantasy
Faith-based
Redemption
Plot twists
It truly is a story about Cass and Zaire but the surprise appearances of familiar characters (if you have read the trilogy) was the cherry on top of a delicious romantasy sundae.
I did not see the plot twist coming—no spoilers—which is impressive, because I’m usually good at spotting what is to come.
I love the banter between Zaire and Cass and Cass’s feelings for Synth :P .
Even though he is brokenhearted over Sephone, Cass doesn’t lose his signature snark.
Zaire has grown up thinking she’s a monster. She is strong, but insecure. Believing she is unworthy to be loved.
And Synth, well you’ll learn about him.
If you have read The Nightingale Trilogy, you will enjoy the expansion of the world. Caligo takes place on a completely different island, with new monsters and magic.
Caligo is a story of love, not just romance, but loving and forgiving yourself and others. It’s a story of healing and accepting with a good dose of adventure and snark.
November 9, 2025
Cassius finally has a story of his own!! I have loved this irreverent, smart-mouthed, reckless character since meeting him in the first book Calor. Through the trilogy, Cass matured and showed us his bruising past but also his tender heart and loyal and protective soul. In this book, we get a deeper understanding of his pain, grief, loss and sorrow - particularly with his mother and Sephone. Zaire was an interesting match for Cass. It broke my heart to see what happened after the conclusion of Memoria and I grieved for Asa along with Zaire. She was truly a minor secondary character in the trilogy but her past wounds and insecurities came out in full display in this book. Both Cass and Zaire seemed to be running away from their mistakes and cowardice to drown their guilt and grief in anger or oblivion. Forgiveness and purpose pursue them in visions and dreams until they both realize the way of Aedon is truly the only way. Despite starting out as enemies, they wind up as teammates and soulmates on a path to save a corner of the post-apocalyptic world.
Spartan joining this adventure was quite delightful. We did not get to see Dorian or Sephone but did encounter a new Amazonian-like civilization and some old foes. The fast-paced plot with its twists and turns, surprises and betrayals kept me absolutely enthralled.
Those who love YA fantasy will adore this book. Even without reading the preceding trilogy, it will be an epic adventure full of action, suspense, faith, and true love (but I highly recommend reading the trilogy).
Spartan joining this adventure was quite delightful. We did not get to see Dorian or Sephone but did encounter a new Amazonian-like civilization and some old foes. The fast-paced plot with its twists and turns, surprises and betrayals kept me absolutely enthralled.
Those who love YA fantasy will adore this book. Even without reading the preceding trilogy, it will be an epic adventure full of action, suspense, faith, and true love (but I highly recommend reading the trilogy).
May 6, 2025
Cass and Zaire were not ready for the story to be over, thus you have a sequel to the Nightingale trilogy. Cassius Vera is larger than life and cannot be easily contained; I am so glad he demanded his own book! Cass finds himself stranded with Zaire, a beautiful, sassy, distrustful werebeast he has encountered before. Stuck together on an island teeming with danger, new magic, new creatures, and strange customs, they both learn that not all things are as they seem. There are some fun twists in this story, as well the return of some characters from the trilogy. The new ones, especially “feather duster”, are quite a treat! While there are some very heavy topics in this book, I am so glad Cass experiences the Light and the freedom found in forgiveness. Zaire learns the true purpose and intent in her gifting and discovers her own unique version of self, created for so much more than she ever imagined.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and all opinions expressed are solely my own, freely given.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and all opinions expressed are solely my own, freely given.
August 19, 2025
J.J. Fischer has the beautiful ability to draw you into a world and root you there, and somehow you don't even realize that it's happening until it has. The worldbuilding in this series is flawless and endlessly surprising. As a new setting, or creature, or ability, or people group is introduced, the reader doesn't question whether it belongs there, is simply does. The world seamlessly expands under the author's imaginative guidance.
I was thrilled when I learned that this book would further Cass's story, and even more thrilled when I met Zaire and realized how perfect she was for our restless rogue. Among the many intricate layers, the theme of healing is woven and beautifully rendered. That (along with the humor and originality!) was my favorite part of the story: The true, solid, and reassuring presence of healing, depicted with true-to-life tenderness.
Read The Nightingale Trilogy, and then read Caligo. You'll be uplifted, entertained, and thankful that you did!
I was thrilled when I learned that this book would further Cass's story, and even more thrilled when I met Zaire and realized how perfect she was for our restless rogue. Among the many intricate layers, the theme of healing is woven and beautifully rendered. That (along with the humor and originality!) was my favorite part of the story: The true, solid, and reassuring presence of healing, depicted with true-to-life tenderness.
Read The Nightingale Trilogy, and then read Caligo. You'll be uplifted, entertained, and thankful that you did!
June 5, 2025
“You have endured great sorrow, aye. But you were given this burden so that you might learn to share it. So that it would drive you to the one person capable of sharing it without cost.”
What can I say that’s different than what I’ve said about Fischer’s other books, especially in the related trilogy? I’ve spent over a week trying to come up with the words, and they just aren’t there - not because this story is too similar or not good, but because the level of excellence in writing and incredible themes shared are par for the course with Fischer.
From the first time I heard about this sequel, I had high hopes and expectations for it, and I was not disappointed. The continued exploration of the Nightingale world was interesting, natural, and exciting to experience. Cass and Zaire’s journeys, both physical and spiritual, continued seamlessly from the end of Memoria, unraveling the history and pain of two of the most enigmatic characters of the trilogy.
Each page drips with mystery, unique world-building, and the kind of truths palatable only in stories. Although this is a complete story, I wouldn’t mind returning to the world, whether it’s for more of Cass and Zaire, Sephone and Dorian, or some of the other characters we met. Fischer is a master storyteller, and I cannot wait to read more of her work.
What can I say that’s different than what I’ve said about Fischer’s other books, especially in the related trilogy? I’ve spent over a week trying to come up with the words, and they just aren’t there - not because this story is too similar or not good, but because the level of excellence in writing and incredible themes shared are par for the course with Fischer.
From the first time I heard about this sequel, I had high hopes and expectations for it, and I was not disappointed. The continued exploration of the Nightingale world was interesting, natural, and exciting to experience. Cass and Zaire’s journeys, both physical and spiritual, continued seamlessly from the end of Memoria, unraveling the history and pain of two of the most enigmatic characters of the trilogy.
Each page drips with mystery, unique world-building, and the kind of truths palatable only in stories. Although this is a complete story, I wouldn’t mind returning to the world, whether it’s for more of Cass and Zaire, Sephone and Dorian, or some of the other characters we met. Fischer is a master storyteller, and I cannot wait to read more of her work.
April 23, 2025
If you have read any of JJ Fischer's books, you will know she is an absolute phenomenal writer!
This one is no exception! Caligo (sequel to the Nightingale Trilogy) is like the encore at the end of a beautiful concert. The perfect ending!
All of her books are exceptional and skillfully written. They leave you breathless and emotional as you are not only a spectator, but a participant on every adventurous page.
What I like about this book? It can be read as a stand-alone, however, to read Calor, Lumen and Memoria, creates a genuine sentiment and understanding for why this last book, Caligo, was added to this collection. I am Team Cass and Caligo makes his story most satisfying!
~Psloan
This one is no exception! Caligo (sequel to the Nightingale Trilogy) is like the encore at the end of a beautiful concert. The perfect ending!
All of her books are exceptional and skillfully written. They leave you breathless and emotional as you are not only a spectator, but a participant on every adventurous page.
What I like about this book? It can be read as a stand-alone, however, to read Calor, Lumen and Memoria, creates a genuine sentiment and understanding for why this last book, Caligo, was added to this collection. I am Team Cass and Caligo makes his story most satisfying!
~Psloan
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews