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On Fell Dark Wings
A famous sorcerer, a young sorceress who had forgotten she was a sorceress, and an impoverished poet find themselves at the heart of a civil war in which a great dragon has been summoned to bring death and destruction to the world. Amidst treachery, murder and the violence of battle, a great contest of magic begins in which fire must be fought with fire.
368 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 30, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
June 22, 2025
Normally, I would never have picked up a novel like this. I have never been more glad to have stepped outside of my comfort zone. This book is an incredible read.
The narrative voice is truly transportive and I felt as though i had been thrust entirely into the magical realm of Toxandria with all its power and charm. The poems that prefaced each chapter were well written and were indicative of the chapter’s content without giving away any spoilers and I personally enjoyed picking them apart as a poetry enthusiast.
I enjoyed the world building and the magic system. It felt very fresh while also being logical (as much as a magic system based on the god of chaos can be) and the absurdity of the main trio brought me large amounts of joy. Each was their own individual and unique character with depth and failings that made them exceedingly endearing to me as the reader.
The pacing of the story was good and I never felt like I was stuck within a dull moment while simultaneously not being bombarded with action on every page. There was still pleasant amounts of action (with realistic outcomes which I found satisfying) my favorite being that of Chapter Twenty-Seven where (slight spoiler) Domaraya is tossed about like a rag doll.
Overall I found this book entirely enjoyable and would very much recommend it to anyone looking for a new read. And I thank Martin Dukes for sharing his world with our own
The narrative voice is truly transportive and I felt as though i had been thrust entirely into the magical realm of Toxandria with all its power and charm. The poems that prefaced each chapter were well written and were indicative of the chapter’s content without giving away any spoilers and I personally enjoyed picking them apart as a poetry enthusiast.
I enjoyed the world building and the magic system. It felt very fresh while also being logical (as much as a magic system based on the god of chaos can be) and the absurdity of the main trio brought me large amounts of joy. Each was their own individual and unique character with depth and failings that made them exceedingly endearing to me as the reader.
The pacing of the story was good and I never felt like I was stuck within a dull moment while simultaneously not being bombarded with action on every page. There was still pleasant amounts of action (with realistic outcomes which I found satisfying) my favorite being that of Chapter Twenty-Seven where (slight spoiler) Domaraya is tossed about like a rag doll.
Overall I found this book entirely enjoyable and would very much recommend it to anyone looking for a new read. And I thank Martin Dukes for sharing his world with our own
June 22, 2025
In "Fell On Dark Wings," the author masterfully weaves a tale that combines elements of fantasy, adventure, and the profound struggles of identity. The story centers around a famous sorcerer, a young sorceress who has lost her memories of magic, and an impoverished poet, all of whom are unwittingly drawn into a civil war that threatens their world.
The characters are richly developed, each representing different facets of courage and resilience. The famous sorcerer embodies the weight of experience, navigating the treachery and chaos with a wisdom that often feels burdened. In contrast, the young sorceress’s journey of self-discovery is both heartwarming and poignant, as she gradually remembers her power and purpose amidst the turmoil. The poet, with his artistic sensitivity, provides a unique perspective on the devastation of war and the beauty of hope, making him a compelling addition to the trio.
The plot is gripping, with a relentless pace that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The summoning of a great dragon as a harbinger of destruction adds an exciting layer of danger and urgency. The author skillfully balances intense battle scenes with moments of introspection, allowing readers to connect deeply with the characters’ struggles.
The magical contest that unfolds is a fascinating exploration of the theme that sometimes, one must confront darkness with their own inner fire. The author’s vivid descriptions bring the magical elements to life, immersing readers in a world where spells and incantations clash like thunder.
Overall, "Fell On Dark Wings" is a compelling read that not only entertains but also invites reflection on the nature of power, memory, and the human spirit. It’s a thrilling journey filled with twists, heart, and the enduring belief that even in the darkest times, hope can emerge victorious. Highly recommended for fans of fantasy and epic adventures!
The characters are richly developed, each representing different facets of courage and resilience. The famous sorcerer embodies the weight of experience, navigating the treachery and chaos with a wisdom that often feels burdened. In contrast, the young sorceress’s journey of self-discovery is both heartwarming and poignant, as she gradually remembers her power and purpose amidst the turmoil. The poet, with his artistic sensitivity, provides a unique perspective on the devastation of war and the beauty of hope, making him a compelling addition to the trio.
The plot is gripping, with a relentless pace that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The summoning of a great dragon as a harbinger of destruction adds an exciting layer of danger and urgency. The author skillfully balances intense battle scenes with moments of introspection, allowing readers to connect deeply with the characters’ struggles.
The magical contest that unfolds is a fascinating exploration of the theme that sometimes, one must confront darkness with their own inner fire. The author’s vivid descriptions bring the magical elements to life, immersing readers in a world where spells and incantations clash like thunder.
Overall, "Fell On Dark Wings" is a compelling read that not only entertains but also invites reflection on the nature of power, memory, and the human spirit. It’s a thrilling journey filled with twists, heart, and the enduring belief that even in the darkest times, hope can emerge victorious. Highly recommended for fans of fantasy and epic adventures!
June 30, 2025
I have read a number of Martin Dukes books now, and I must say , they never disappoint.
This book has more sorcery and magic than some of his previous work as well as a touch of humour too.
One of the characters, Tranto, who finds himself caught up in a civil war, when all he really wants to do is write poetry!
There are an array of interesting characters, one of which is a well-known sorcerer of his time and his housekeeper.The latter appears to have more skill and magic than just to cook and clean.
Without giving too much away, dragons also play a part in this story too, as the battle rages on.
This book can be read as a standalone or as part of the Toxandria series and can be enjoyed by any age not just as a YA fantasy.
I rated this book 4.85 stars and would definitely recommend it.
This book has more sorcery and magic than some of his previous work as well as a touch of humour too.
One of the characters, Tranto, who finds himself caught up in a civil war, when all he really wants to do is write poetry!
There are an array of interesting characters, one of which is a well-known sorcerer of his time and his housekeeper.The latter appears to have more skill and magic than just to cook and clean.
Without giving too much away, dragons also play a part in this story too, as the battle rages on.
This book can be read as a standalone or as part of the Toxandria series and can be enjoyed by any age not just as a YA fantasy.
I rated this book 4.85 stars and would definitely recommend it.
July 2, 2025
Mild Spoilers
On Fell Dark Wings by Martin Dukes
Book Five in the Chronicles of Toxandria – First of the First Cycle
On Fell Dark Wings marks the beginning of a new cycle within Martin Dukes’ Chronicles of Toxandria, serving as Book One of the First Cycle—despite being the fifth book overall. Having read and enjoyed the Fourth Cycle, I was excited to see how Dukes would start this new arc, and he didn’t disappoint.
Let’s start with the obvious highlight: dragons. I’m always drawn to stories featuring dragons, and getting another installment from Dukes centered around them was a real treat. The reappearance of Zaran-Gaddin (fans of When Dragons Dream will recognise the name) was a definite high point. Dukes’ portrayal of dragons as chaotic neutral rather than purely good or evil brings a refreshing depth to the genre.
The story follows three compelling main characters:
Kymeragor, the renowned sorcerer
Tranto, a struggling poet whose verses are woven beautifully into the narrative
Rissica, a young and determined sorceress whose growth arc is especially memorable
Rissica, in particular, stood out to me. Her journey, from cooking in the kitchen to confronting dragons and standing her ground in war, is a powerful transformation and one of my favorite aspects of the book.
The central conflict pits our heroes against a corrupt king and his dark sorcerer, Domaraya. While I would have liked a few chapters from the perspective of King Agarist or Domaraya to add depth to the antagonists, the confrontations still held plenty of tension and intrigue.
One thing that consistently impresses me about Dukes’ writing is his distinctive style. His integration of poetry, especially through Tranto, enriches the world and gives the narrative a lyrical touch that sets it apart from standard fantasy fare.
As a self-published author, Martin Dukes continues to deliver highly original stories with heart, creativity, and rich world-building. If you haven’t yet explored his work, I highly recommend starting with one of his series. This book, especially, is a strong entry point.
On Fell Dark Wings by Martin Dukes
Book Five in the Chronicles of Toxandria – First of the First Cycle
On Fell Dark Wings marks the beginning of a new cycle within Martin Dukes’ Chronicles of Toxandria, serving as Book One of the First Cycle—despite being the fifth book overall. Having read and enjoyed the Fourth Cycle, I was excited to see how Dukes would start this new arc, and he didn’t disappoint.
Let’s start with the obvious highlight: dragons. I’m always drawn to stories featuring dragons, and getting another installment from Dukes centered around them was a real treat. The reappearance of Zaran-Gaddin (fans of When Dragons Dream will recognise the name) was a definite high point. Dukes’ portrayal of dragons as chaotic neutral rather than purely good or evil brings a refreshing depth to the genre.
The story follows three compelling main characters:
Kymeragor, the renowned sorcerer
Tranto, a struggling poet whose verses are woven beautifully into the narrative
Rissica, a young and determined sorceress whose growth arc is especially memorable
Rissica, in particular, stood out to me. Her journey, from cooking in the kitchen to confronting dragons and standing her ground in war, is a powerful transformation and one of my favorite aspects of the book.
The central conflict pits our heroes against a corrupt king and his dark sorcerer, Domaraya. While I would have liked a few chapters from the perspective of King Agarist or Domaraya to add depth to the antagonists, the confrontations still held plenty of tension and intrigue.
One thing that consistently impresses me about Dukes’ writing is his distinctive style. His integration of poetry, especially through Tranto, enriches the world and gives the narrative a lyrical touch that sets it apart from standard fantasy fare.
As a self-published author, Martin Dukes continues to deliver highly original stories with heart, creativity, and rich world-building. If you haven’t yet explored his work, I highly recommend starting with one of his series. This book, especially, is a strong entry point.
June 18, 2025
A spellbinding tale of magic, war, and destiny
On Fell Dark Wings is a beautifully crafted fantasy that soars with imagination, rich characters, and lyrical storytelling. Martin Dukes delivers a compelling narrative that captures the timeless struggle between light and darkness, set in a world teetering on the edge of chaos.
From the very beginning, the story grips you with its atmosphere—evocative, mysterious, and steeped in ancient power. The central trio—a renowned sorcerer, a young woman rediscovering her magical past, and a struggling poet—make for a fascinating and well-balanced cast. Their paths intertwine in a way that feels both fated and deeply human.
One of the book’s strongest qualities is its depth of emotion. Themes of memory, identity, sacrifice, and inner strength run throughout, adding substance to the action-packed battles and magical duels. The dragon, a looming symbol of devastation, adds urgency and danger to every chapter, heightening the stakes as civil war threatens to unravel the realm.
Dukes’ prose is poetic without being overdone, with a rhythm that fits the high fantasy genre perfectly. His descriptions of magic and landscapes are vivid and immersive, and the pacing—while occasionally contemplative—is perfectly suited to the unfolding tension and drama.
This is not just a tale of fire and sorcery; it is a story about rediscovery, unlikely heroes, and the quiet courage it takes to stand against darkness.
An absolute gem for lovers of classic fantasy with a modern heart.
On Fell Dark Wings is a beautifully crafted fantasy that soars with imagination, rich characters, and lyrical storytelling. Martin Dukes delivers a compelling narrative that captures the timeless struggle between light and darkness, set in a world teetering on the edge of chaos.
From the very beginning, the story grips you with its atmosphere—evocative, mysterious, and steeped in ancient power. The central trio—a renowned sorcerer, a young woman rediscovering her magical past, and a struggling poet—make for a fascinating and well-balanced cast. Their paths intertwine in a way that feels both fated and deeply human.
One of the book’s strongest qualities is its depth of emotion. Themes of memory, identity, sacrifice, and inner strength run throughout, adding substance to the action-packed battles and magical duels. The dragon, a looming symbol of devastation, adds urgency and danger to every chapter, heightening the stakes as civil war threatens to unravel the realm.
Dukes’ prose is poetic without being overdone, with a rhythm that fits the high fantasy genre perfectly. His descriptions of magic and landscapes are vivid and immersive, and the pacing—while occasionally contemplative—is perfectly suited to the unfolding tension and drama.
This is not just a tale of fire and sorcery; it is a story about rediscovery, unlikely heroes, and the quiet courage it takes to stand against darkness.
An absolute gem for lovers of classic fantasy with a modern heart.
July 8, 2025
An unlikely trio find themselves at the heart of a civil war, where a dragon has been summoned to bring death to the world - fire must be fought with fire. The main character, Tranto, whose eyes we see the story tthrough, just wants to be a poet. But he’s thrust into the unexpected - politics, murder, magic and civil war. But all that makes for good poetry, right?
Book 5 in the Chronicles of Toxandria (but can also be read as a standalone). It’s also the first book chronologically, which results in a lot of worldbuilding (which isn’t dense, and is easy to understand) and lore is sprinkled throughout the story.
It’s a medieval-style fantasy, and uses that style of language. Although I found this difficult to get into to begin with, it does make you feel like you’re in a different world and pull you into the story - as does the descriptions, which are also immersive.
The story has lots of plot lines to explore, which all intertwine, and has you asking questions throughout. It’s also fairly fast paced. I also really enjoyed the magic system - it felt very Dungeon and Dragons like (which I enjoyed). It also has the found family trope (which I love). For the story’s length, the characters were fairly well developed but this is something I would’ve like to see more of! There's also dragons!!
Overall, I really enjoyed this - it’s a short, fast paced fantasy read and I’m intrigued with what the rest of The Tales of Toxandria has to offer.
Book 5 in the Chronicles of Toxandria (but can also be read as a standalone). It’s also the first book chronologically, which results in a lot of worldbuilding (which isn’t dense, and is easy to understand) and lore is sprinkled throughout the story.
It’s a medieval-style fantasy, and uses that style of language. Although I found this difficult to get into to begin with, it does make you feel like you’re in a different world and pull you into the story - as does the descriptions, which are also immersive.
The story has lots of plot lines to explore, which all intertwine, and has you asking questions throughout. It’s also fairly fast paced. I also really enjoyed the magic system - it felt very Dungeon and Dragons like (which I enjoyed). It also has the found family trope (which I love). For the story’s length, the characters were fairly well developed but this is something I would’ve like to see more of! There's also dragons!!
Overall, I really enjoyed this - it’s a short, fast paced fantasy read and I’m intrigued with what the rest of The Tales of Toxandria has to offer.
September 1, 2025
Martin Dukes did an amazing job with this book. The world-building was captivating, and within the first few chapters, I was hooked on Tranto and his story. Duke’s strength is in writing characters that fit in the lore and world they live in. The characters behave and act in a manner that fits the fantasy world they live in. The development of the primary characters throughout the book was great and fit perfectly into the length of the novel. The magic system within this book was easily understood, yet very mysterious and complex, which was quite enjoyable and kept me on my toes. It was also refreshing to read the healthy romance within this book; the two people courting one another are truly seeking to care for one another, not just have their desires fulfilled. There is a great balance between action, lore, romance, and work that had me hooked. My only critique (which likely came from my desire for this book not to end) was that the last few chapters had a much faster pace than the rest of the book. However, this does not throw any shade upon the story, and I would highly recommend this book interested in a fascinating, approachable, fantasy story.
October 28, 2025
I’ve loved all of the books in the Chronicles of Toxandria, and this one is a special standout for how it deepens our understanding of two pivotal, historical figures from that world (continent). In the previous book, When Dragons Dream, Khymeragor and Tranto are introduced as legendary figures who are still remembered 3,000 years after the era in which they made their marks. Now, with Fell Dark Wings, we get to meet those men “in person” – in the midst of great battles wonderfully depicted (this author writes amazing battle scenes) – and we see that the two are men, not legends – fallible, sometimes gullible, possessing fears and weaknesses as well as great strength and courage. It’s a fascinating deep-dive into intriguing characters who do the best they can when destiny calls – and dragons threaten. Most books in this series can be treated as standalones and read in any order, but I recommend that you take 4 and 5 – Dragons Dream and Dark Wings – in publication order. Switching them around would ruin the surprising twist in those closely connected stories.
Highly recommended, this and every other book in this outstanding series.
Highly recommended, this and every other book in this outstanding series.
July 26, 2025
This book is part of a larger series, but don’t worry—it works perfectly as a standalone! While the beginning started off a bit slow and leaned into classic medieval fantasy terminology, it quickly picked up the pace and kept me hooked. The worldbuilding was immersive—it truly made me feel like I was right there in the heart of the kingdom, watching the story unfold.
The cast of characters was just as rich and layered. Khymeragor the sorcerer, Domaraya and Rissica the sorceresses, and Tranto the secretary each brought something unique to the story. Rissica, in particular, was a standout for me. I loved watching her grow into her power—she’s strong, determined, and really came into her own by the end of the book.
The plot was gripping and full of tension: a kingdom on the edge of civil war, torn between rebels and royals. Add in fierce battles, powerful dragons, and the timeless struggle of good versus evil, and you’ve got an epic fantasy adventure.
If you’re a fan of fantasy or romantasy, this one’s definitely worth picking up!
The cast of characters was just as rich and layered. Khymeragor the sorcerer, Domaraya and Rissica the sorceresses, and Tranto the secretary each brought something unique to the story. Rissica, in particular, was a standout for me. I loved watching her grow into her power—she’s strong, determined, and really came into her own by the end of the book.
The plot was gripping and full of tension: a kingdom on the edge of civil war, torn between rebels and royals. Add in fierce battles, powerful dragons, and the timeless struggle of good versus evil, and you’ve got an epic fantasy adventure.
If you’re a fan of fantasy or romantasy, this one’s definitely worth picking up!
July 13, 2025
Prepare yourself for an unforgettable escapade through Martin Dukes’ captivating The Chronicles of Toxandria series! Explore the depths of “On Fell Dark Wings,” a hidden treasure transporting you to the dawn of the second millennium. In this realm, magic pervades every corner, but for sorcerers, it's a perilous game. The Intercessors, divine entities, show no mercy to wielders of magic, plunging their existence into a perpetual battle. Amidst turmoil and the looming shadow of a malevolent sorceress, a trio of enigmatic characters set off on a riveting odyssey featuring dragons, enchantment, and intricate bonds. Be prepared for a gripping emotional rollercoaster that will stir your soul and leave you yearning for more!
August 9, 2025
I absolutely love it when an author can take me out of my comfort zone (dark romance) and keep me captivated with their writing. Honestly, I didn't think I was going to enjoy it, but I pushed through the first few chapters and then couldn't put it down. It was the very detailed script and scenes that did it for me. You won't have to guess what they are thinking, planning, or doing and why. Makes you feel like you're right beside them along the way.
Martin Dukes took me to a fantasy world I need to learn more about. This is part of a series and can be read as a stand-alone. So now I'm off to get the rest of the books.
Martin Dukes took me to a fantasy world I need to learn more about. This is part of a series and can be read as a stand-alone. So now I'm off to get the rest of the books.
October 31, 2025
An interesting fantasy novel about sorcerers, kingdom rebellions and dragons!
I enjoyed diving into the descriptive adventures On Fell Dark Wings, with a classic feeling of fantasy that reminds me of J.R.R. Tolkien.
The main characters are a powerful sorcerer, a young sorceress that has forgotten what she is and a poet that looks more like a warrior.
We get very descriptive scenes of magic and inner thoughts of the 3 main characters and get to feel their struggles and achievements.
It was a slow read for me but I did end up really enjoying the storyline and will probably pick up the next books in the series at some point as I know there’s more to this world to explore!
I enjoyed diving into the descriptive adventures On Fell Dark Wings, with a classic feeling of fantasy that reminds me of J.R.R. Tolkien.
The main characters are a powerful sorcerer, a young sorceress that has forgotten what she is and a poet that looks more like a warrior.
We get very descriptive scenes of magic and inner thoughts of the 3 main characters and get to feel their struggles and achievements.
It was a slow read for me but I did end up really enjoying the storyline and will probably pick up the next books in the series at some point as I know there’s more to this world to explore!
July 8, 2025
This book had me gripped from the beginning. I could not put it down and it actually managed to get me out of my reading slump. Can I just say it had dragons!!! 🐉 I haven’t read any of the other books but I can certainly say I will be reading the other books in the series. There is magic and sorcery and is such a great and easy story to follow. Thank you for the opportunity for being able to read this book ❤️
July 28, 2025
On Fell Dark Wings has well developed characters, adventurous plot, sorcery/magic, fighting evil, and a Medieval-esque settings. This book was a little slower paced than I’m accustomed to, but it had several unique concepts that kept me invested. Despite the slower pacing, it doesn’t lack plot or action at all. If the list above interests you, you might enjoy this book and the bigger connected world the author has built/is continuing to build.
June 19, 2025
Absolutely fantastic read again from Martin. I am loving the Chronicles of Toxandria series. Don’t want to give to much away but reading about Toxandria over the years and the different people but who are all kind of linked in some way and have ing the two gods throughout series is brilliant. Can’t wait for next instalment
June 24, 2025
I absolutely loved this book! It’s got everything you want from a good fantasy book. It’s got dragons, magic, sibling rivalry, civil war, lovers, gods and even a poet.
It’s such a beautifully written book and the story pulls you in from the start.
It’s such a beautifully written book and the story pulls you in from the start.
August 19, 2025
Gods as Gamemasters. Dragons as Dice. Three Souls Ablaze to Defy Them All.
When I dare to believe Martin Dukes has already gifted us his greatest work, On Fell Dark Wings (The Chronicles of Toxandria) rises to prove me wrong. His prose spills like moonlight across the page, casting an ethereal glow that makes each word feel touched by something otherworldly. In this latest masterpiece, echoes of the timeless and the classic resound — yet each triumph is fresher, fiercer, and more stirring than the last, soaring far beyond even my loftiest expectations.
Here, gods and dragons share the stage with sorcerers and sorceresses, kings and poets. Battlefields clash with whispered conspiracies, and shifting alliances keep the ground unsteady beneath your feet. Every character feels carved from legend yet achingly human — their choices, flaws, and courage pulling you deep into a storm where nothing is as it first appears.
The writing is equal parts poetic and pulse‑quickening. Extraordinary characters with unfathomable arcs leap from the page — each victory, each betrayal, each fragile hope pushing the reader deeper into the storm. My heart was stolen most by the enigmatic, unfaltering courage of certain characters I dare not name for fear of robbing you of the surprises that make this journey unforgettable.
And then there is the book’s heartbeat — lines that linger long after the cover closes:
“As prophets dream and poet sings
When hammer on the anvil rings
And swords are raised by warrior kings
Then dragons rise upon fell wings.”
Prepare to be enthralled. On Fell Dark Wings is a treasure for dark‑fantasy lovers, for those who crave worlds rich with magic, war, love, and wonder, and for any reader ready to be lifted skyward on the beating wings of a story they will never forget.
When I dare to believe Martin Dukes has already gifted us his greatest work, On Fell Dark Wings (The Chronicles of Toxandria) rises to prove me wrong. His prose spills like moonlight across the page, casting an ethereal glow that makes each word feel touched by something otherworldly. In this latest masterpiece, echoes of the timeless and the classic resound — yet each triumph is fresher, fiercer, and more stirring than the last, soaring far beyond even my loftiest expectations.
Here, gods and dragons share the stage with sorcerers and sorceresses, kings and poets. Battlefields clash with whispered conspiracies, and shifting alliances keep the ground unsteady beneath your feet. Every character feels carved from legend yet achingly human — their choices, flaws, and courage pulling you deep into a storm where nothing is as it first appears.
The writing is equal parts poetic and pulse‑quickening. Extraordinary characters with unfathomable arcs leap from the page — each victory, each betrayal, each fragile hope pushing the reader deeper into the storm. My heart was stolen most by the enigmatic, unfaltering courage of certain characters I dare not name for fear of robbing you of the surprises that make this journey unforgettable.
And then there is the book’s heartbeat — lines that linger long after the cover closes:
“As prophets dream and poet sings
When hammer on the anvil rings
And swords are raised by warrior kings
Then dragons rise upon fell wings.”
Prepare to be enthralled. On Fell Dark Wings is a treasure for dark‑fantasy lovers, for those who crave worlds rich with magic, war, love, and wonder, and for any reader ready to be lifted skyward on the beating wings of a story they will never forget.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews