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The Starchaser Saga #3
NIGHTWING
Princess Cistine Novacek is a prisoner of Valgard.
Facing unbearable loss and the revelation of her own formidable power, Cistine battles her captor's cruel games in a fight to escape. Her only hope for survival lies in her own cunning, a surly guard, an imprisoned beast with his own reasons for seeking freedom, and an unexpected ally who will risk everything to bring her home.
Tatiana and Quill are on the hunt. Far from the familiar, they search the shadowy corners of Valgard for their lost princess. But to rescue Cistine, they may be forced to pay a higher cost than either of them bargained for—a choice that unearths an old darkness lurking at the door of their kingdom, waiting to be let inside.
Banished for betrayal, Asheila Kovar hatches a daring plan to find the princess she’s sworn to protect. But a pair of unlikely companions will guide her on a journey she never expected, with enemies she never foresaw and revelations that will change her understanding of Talheim's past - and the course of all their futures.
Lines must be crossed. Lives must be given. Answers must be unveiled. And in order to thwart a tyrant's madness, sacrifices are demanded of the cabal…a price that will alter the fate of the Three Kingdoms forever.
★
Praise for
★★★★★ "This is certainly a darker story than the first two, but there is also so much love and healing even in the face of trauma and violence. I think it was definitely a logical path for Cistine to go down." - Maddie Jensen, author of THE LEGACY OF THE LOST Trilogy
★★★★ "This is a great book. It was a little slow to start as the characters are all separated but once you get your bearing with where everyone is the story sucks you in and doesn’t let go. This is an amazing chapter in a truly incredible series." - Holly Ash, author of THE JOURNEY MISSIONS and the CLEANSING RAIN duology
★★★★★ "I truly cannot put into words how much I adore this series more and more with each book I read! Renee Dugan does such a fantabulous job developing each character in the book even if they aren't the main focus." - Lucy Gould, author of THE TALES OF NEVERLAND trilogy
★
Experience the COMPLETE STARCHASER SAGA now!
DARKWINDDAWNSTARNIGHTWINGLIGHTFALLBLOODSINGERDRAGONFIREWILDHEART
Facing unbearable loss and the revelation of her own formidable power, Cistine battles her captor's cruel games in a fight to escape. Her only hope for survival lies in her own cunning, a surly guard, an imprisoned beast with his own reasons for seeking freedom, and an unexpected ally who will risk everything to bring her home.
Tatiana and Quill are on the hunt. Far from the familiar, they search the shadowy corners of Valgard for their lost princess. But to rescue Cistine, they may be forced to pay a higher cost than either of them bargained for—a choice that unearths an old darkness lurking at the door of their kingdom, waiting to be let inside.
Banished for betrayal, Asheila Kovar hatches a daring plan to find the princess she’s sworn to protect. But a pair of unlikely companions will guide her on a journey she never expected, with enemies she never foresaw and revelations that will change her understanding of Talheim's past - and the course of all their futures.
Lines must be crossed. Lives must be given. Answers must be unveiled. And in order to thwart a tyrant's madness, sacrifices are demanded of the cabal…a price that will alter the fate of the Three Kingdoms forever.
★
Praise for
★★★★★ "This is certainly a darker story than the first two, but there is also so much love and healing even in the face of trauma and violence. I think it was definitely a logical path for Cistine to go down." - Maddie Jensen, author of THE LEGACY OF THE LOST Trilogy
★★★★ "This is a great book. It was a little slow to start as the characters are all separated but once you get your bearing with where everyone is the story sucks you in and doesn’t let go. This is an amazing chapter in a truly incredible series." - Holly Ash, author of THE JOURNEY MISSIONS and the CLEANSING RAIN duology
★★★★★ "I truly cannot put into words how much I adore this series more and more with each book I read! Renee Dugan does such a fantabulous job developing each character in the book even if they aren't the main focus." - Lucy Gould, author of THE TALES OF NEVERLAND trilogy
★
Experience the COMPLETE STARCHASER SAGA now!
DARKWINDDAWNSTARNIGHTWINGLIGHTFALLBLOODSINGERDRAGONFIREWILDHEART
- GenresFantasyFantasy Romance
491 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 1, 2020
21 people are currently reading
317 people want to read
About the author
Renee Dugan
16 books179 followersRenee Dugan is an Indiana-based fantasy author who grew up reading fantasy books, chasing stray cats, and writing stories full of dashing heroes and evil masterminds.
Now with over a decade of professional editing, administrative work, and writing every spare second under her belt, she has authored THE CHAOS CIRCUS, a portal fantasy novel, and THE STARCHASER SAGA, an epic high fantasy series.
Living with her husband, son, and not-so-stray cats in the magical Midwest, she continues to explore new worlds and spends her time in this one encouraging and helping other writers on their journey to fulfilling their dreams.
Now with over a decade of professional editing, administrative work, and writing every spare second under her belt, she has authored THE CHAOS CIRCUS, a portal fantasy novel, and THE STARCHASER SAGA, an epic high fantasy series.
Living with her husband, son, and not-so-stray cats in the magical Midwest, she continues to explore new worlds and spends her time in this one encouraging and helping other writers on their journey to fulfilling their dreams.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
December 10, 2020
Alright…where do I begin?
I first stumbled upon this series during the peak of lockdown and ever since, I find myself constantly thinking about this series.
Nightwing is Book 3 in The Starchaser Saga. I’ve said it before but I’ll say it again, the series has one of the best character developments I’ve read this year. Even I get surprised by how much Cistine has grown and matured since book 1… It’s perfection.
Dugan is brilliant as ever with her writing. Nightwing in general was high on everything: Emotions were high, the fantasy aspect of the storyline was better than ever (Which is weird because I knew I was reading a fantasy book but I legit went “whhhhaaaaatttt???!!!” on certain scenes), the adventures and escapades were daring, the villains were horrible and I hated them more than ever (Brilliant Dugan!)and the romance was heartbreaking and beautiful!
Now, Lets talk about Cistine and Thorne. But first..let’s talk about Cistine. Princess Cistine Novacek is a warrior of the cabal, the Wild Heart of Fire and she’s POWERFUL. I love this character…. I can’t explain just how much. Maybe Thorne can?
Thorne! Take it away!
“Cistine,” he said, “You defy every standard they hold you to. There is more nobility, compassion, and wisdom in your fingertips than in every man’s spirit in this stars-damned mountain. And that is just the beginning. I rank you above them- above all of us. I rank you among the stars, Logandir, and I would follow your light to find my way home…as long and as far as I wander, for the rest of my life.”
Let’s now talk about Cistine and Thorne because if you know me, you know that I’ve been ‘shipping’ them since book 1. These two make my heart race. When Dugan wrote “He was her blended heart”, I found myself nodding and saying YES!
“I would cross oceans for you, Cistine. I would cross borders and Kingdoms for you. Nothing will keep me away from you when you need me…not even a stars-damned mountain prison or my father’s fury.”
Throne is divine and I love him more for his dedication to Cistine.
“I will follow you always, Wildheart.” He traced the curve of her cheek with his thumb, forging a glowing oath in the darkness. “With my whole heart. For my whole life.”
DO NOT tell me that these quotes didn’t make you swoon.
The characters in this series are brilliant and having read chapters from their POVs, I’ve fallen more in love with them. Let’s not forget the cabal because they are just as badass as before, if not more. Tatiana, Quill, Maleck even Pippet, Ashe, Aden and Kristoff.... I knew I was invested in them, but I’m officially declaring my loyalty to these characters.
Renee Dugan has given us another outstanding book. Told in multiple POVs, Nightwing is wilder, darker, more emotional (was not prepared for all the crying), more EVERYTHING!
https://sentrancedjem.wordpress.com/2...
October 10, 2021
For a moment, I debated giving this one 4 stars instead of 5. But then my heart won over my brain, so I went with 5 anyway. Why? Let's see...
As the saga progresses, we have more POVs. Book 1 had only 1,which I think was glorious in how well it was managed. Book 2 changed between 2 POVs in a way that felt so flawless and amazing, leaving me in the right place each time. But with this third one, and 3 POVs, I found at times that my brain was being takes from one place to the other too quick. There were too many changes too quickly for my liking (this is just my personal opinion, and this pov changes might seem perfect for others!).
If you're reading this, have in mind that I was so obsessed that I finished this book in the span of 30 hours during which I was exhausted, which is definitely not something healthy to do haha, so this might have also hindered my perception of this third book.
But overall, it still held my heart in a tight fist. I love how through all these books Renee has touched on soo many important subjects in such a delicate way. I love seeing our heroine grow even through her pain, see her battle against herself and her demons as well as every external obstacle thrown at her. I love each and every relationship.
Thinking about it, *mild spoiler ahead* I think what I didn't like as much was Tati's POV and I think it's for mega personal reasons. I think I was expecting something different from 2 characters I have learned to love with my whole heart and then found myself in a thigh rope, not sure how to feel about them anymore. (I'm very particular with relationships, toeing on the ace and aro specs, so relationships sometimes are hard for me to love/understand in books). I think I felt like I was missing a little soemthing there, which is why halfway through the book, I felt unsure.
But I pushed, and every other character arc in there, I loved. I loved how they all kept running into each other here and there and how complicated and vast this universe is.
I can't wait to jump into the next one! (even tho I'll make myself take a day away from the saga to recharge my emotions and brain haha)
Thanks again Renee for bringing us such amazing characters! 💕
As the saga progresses, we have more POVs. Book 1 had only 1,which I think was glorious in how well it was managed. Book 2 changed between 2 POVs in a way that felt so flawless and amazing, leaving me in the right place each time. But with this third one, and 3 POVs, I found at times that my brain was being takes from one place to the other too quick. There were too many changes too quickly for my liking (this is just my personal opinion, and this pov changes might seem perfect for others!).
If you're reading this, have in mind that I was so obsessed that I finished this book in the span of 30 hours during which I was exhausted, which is definitely not something healthy to do haha, so this might have also hindered my perception of this third book.
But overall, it still held my heart in a tight fist. I love how through all these books Renee has touched on soo many important subjects in such a delicate way. I love seeing our heroine grow even through her pain, see her battle against herself and her demons as well as every external obstacle thrown at her. I love each and every relationship.
Thinking about it, *mild spoiler ahead* I think what I didn't like as much was Tati's POV and I think it's for mega personal reasons. I think I was expecting something different from 2 characters I have learned to love with my whole heart and then found myself in a thigh rope, not sure how to feel about them anymore. (I'm very particular with relationships, toeing on the ace and aro specs, so relationships sometimes are hard for me to love/understand in books). I think I felt like I was missing a little soemthing there, which is why halfway through the book, I felt unsure.
But I pushed, and every other character arc in there, I loved. I loved how they all kept running into each other here and there and how complicated and vast this universe is.
I can't wait to jump into the next one! (even tho I'll make myself take a day away from the saga to recharge my emotions and brain haha)
Thanks again Renee for bringing us such amazing characters! 💕
January 6, 2022
I can't express enough how much I love this series. The character development is so well done that it creates a immediate bond towards the whole found family. I fell in love with them ALL even more In this book. They are all my favorite that I want to protect and hold close.
December 19, 2021
Oof, my heart! ❤️ That’s it. That’s the review. 😂
(Note: do mind the content warnings for this one especially. They’re listed in the book before the start of the story!)
(Note: do mind the content warnings for this one especially. They’re listed in the book before the start of the story!)
February 13, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5
𝙂𝙚𝙣𝙧𝙚: Fantasy series (book 3)
𝙁𝙤𝙧𝙢𝙖𝙩: eBook
𝙁𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙌𝙪𝙤𝙩𝙚:
"Cistine," he said, "You defy every standard they hold you to. There is more nobility, compassion, and wisdom in your fingertips than in every man's spirit in this stars-damned mountain. And that is just the beginning. I rank you above them-above all of us. I rank you among the stars, Logandir, and I would follow your light to find my way home...as long and as far as I wander, for the rest of my life.”
𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙄 𝙇𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙙:
✨Faster pace
✨Slow burn
✨Side character journeys are FANTASTIC
✨Multi POV
✨Several romantic subplots
𝙁𝙪𝙡𝙡 𝙍𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬:
This is another fantastic book in the Darkwind series 👏🏻 with several side characters going on their own adventures, the plot felt faster than ever and I loved it. The multi POV is so effective at developing multiple plot lines that are happening on the same timeline, and I love how this allows us to get to know several side characters better. I honestly don’t think the slow burn can get any slower, but it’s so well done and angsty and tense and I loved it!
Ashe, Tatiana and Quill were honestly some of my favorite characters in this book. Their stories are extremely well developed and it was refreshing to see side characters play such integral roles. Of course I still love Cistine and Thorne, and can’t the world just be nice to them for once so they can be happy?!
The separation of characters was a LOT in this book, and I had a love/hate relationship with it 😂 I just want to see the cabal back together and kicking ass again, but I think it’s necessary for certain characters to go on their own journey for a bit.
I can’t wait to continue this series! Highly recommend!
𝙂𝙚𝙣𝙧𝙚: Fantasy series (book 3)
𝙁𝙤𝙧𝙢𝙖𝙩: eBook
𝙁𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙌𝙪𝙤𝙩𝙚:
"Cistine," he said, "You defy every standard they hold you to. There is more nobility, compassion, and wisdom in your fingertips than in every man's spirit in this stars-damned mountain. And that is just the beginning. I rank you above them-above all of us. I rank you among the stars, Logandir, and I would follow your light to find my way home...as long and as far as I wander, for the rest of my life.”
𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙄 𝙇𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙙:
✨Faster pace
✨Slow burn
✨Side character journeys are FANTASTIC
✨Multi POV
✨Several romantic subplots
𝙁𝙪𝙡𝙡 𝙍𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬:
This is another fantastic book in the Darkwind series 👏🏻 with several side characters going on their own adventures, the plot felt faster than ever and I loved it. The multi POV is so effective at developing multiple plot lines that are happening on the same timeline, and I love how this allows us to get to know several side characters better. I honestly don’t think the slow burn can get any slower, but it’s so well done and angsty and tense and I loved it!
Ashe, Tatiana and Quill were honestly some of my favorite characters in this book. Their stories are extremely well developed and it was refreshing to see side characters play such integral roles. Of course I still love Cistine and Thorne, and can’t the world just be nice to them for once so they can be happy?!
The separation of characters was a LOT in this book, and I had a love/hate relationship with it 😂 I just want to see the cabal back together and kicking ass again, but I think it’s necessary for certain characters to go on their own journey for a bit.
I can’t wait to continue this series! Highly recommend!
January 4, 2021
I'd heard this one was dark but man, Dugan is not kidding around. This book is BRUTAL. The cabal go through so much, especially Cistine, who's having to deal with grief and constant fear. The way Dugan writes, the emotions just scream right off the page. I found myself stressing out over the fate of the characters and loving them even more deeply than before. I absolutely love how much Cistine has grown and how every attempt to break her only makes her stronger. I also really hate Salvator and hope he dies. I will laugh. Ha ha. Ha. Ahem, anyway. I love the turn the series takes here and seeing all the characters learn from their mistakes and grow. Bonus hugs for Quill and Ashe <3. I am very much looking forward to seeing where things go from here.
June 12, 2021
Incredibly thrilling, heart-wrenching, and an emotional rollercoaster, Nightwing is a masterpiece of high fantasy. Renee does it again with a story that leaves you holding your breath until the very last page. Youll become more invested in each character, all of which are well fleshed out. Every word plays out like a movie in my mind, making Renee's writing style one of my favorites. Onto the next adventure in the Starchaser saga!
October 27, 2022
Phenomenal.
With every book my love for this series grows. This story is so complex, so intense, so amazing that I am just completely sucked in. I love so much about each unique character. I am so excited to continue reading and see where this goes (though slightly afraid for some heartbreak as well). If you love fantasy I just can’t recommend this book enough - please pick it up!
With every book my love for this series grows. This story is so complex, so intense, so amazing that I am just completely sucked in. I love so much about each unique character. I am so excited to continue reading and see where this goes (though slightly afraid for some heartbreak as well). If you love fantasy I just can’t recommend this book enough - please pick it up!
January 14, 2021
This is a great book. It was a little slow to start as the characters are all separated but once you get your bearing with where everyone is the story sucks you in and doesn’t let go. This is an amazing chapter in a truly incredible series.
December 4, 2020
Review coming soon!!!
April 24, 2021
Another amazing story. I’m dying for book four. This book took us a lot of places and it was fascinating. I love the cabal. So much.
August 31, 2021
BOOK 3, HOLY CRAP! Renee Dugan, you bloody genius! This is probably the most action packed book so far, with traumatic events as far as the eye can see. This book stressed me out so much, but in the best ways possible.
Some of these have spoilers, so read at your own risk.
We finally get to see Tatiana's POV, who is my second favorite character behind Quill. She's badass, and with what happened during Dawnstar, I'm glad to see her getting the development she deserves. She feels the most regret I think, with Cistine getting kidnapped. She and Quill (QuillIana for the WIN!) set off on their own adventure. They discover that ancient horrors are returning to their world, but they also work through their own personal issues, and the way they are written, they feel equally important. I appreciate that in a book because weaving interpersonal drama with objective plot stuff is not easy. It is handled spectacularly here.
Cistine has been kidnapped by her most powerful enemy, and Ashe is banished from the cabal. She has nowhere to turn except back home, where she can hopefully get help. She is joined by my third favorite character, Pippet, which is a brilliant choice because they're basically the same person. They are found by Rion, someone who Ashe respects and admires, and some of her allies from Talheim. Aden finds them not long after, and they all travel north to figure out a way to get Cistine back. I love the character development for Ashe in this one, because she finally begins to push back against to the bigotry she was raised in. Standing up to enemies is easy. Standing up to friends is hard.
Meanwhile, Cistine is imprisoned, tortured, and humiliated, and every time I started one of her chapters, I felt dread. Many books, movies, and TV shows like to skip over the parts where the protagonists go through trauma, or they downplay them, or maybe have one (1) traumatic event; but not Dugan. The stakes start high, and only get higher. Cistine is the only woman among an unholy amount of men, but at least she's not alone. Thorne gets [his stupid ass] caught, and they
give each other hope. I'm keeping the best character a secret though, because spoilers. This whole arc just stressed me out in so many ways: the humiliation, the crawling through the vents, the fact Salvotor is there the whole time and has NO MERCY (and Dugan by proxy), and the utter physical harm these characters went through. Oh, and Devitrius can go die. The trauma is real, and it'll continue to be real, because that's the way PTSD works. I'm looking forward to seeing Cistine overcome this and grow into the queen she is meant to be.
I mostly love this book because of how hyped I got when our heroes gained even one inch against their opponents. The lows are low, but the highs are exciting as hell. The end is cathartic, and wraps up in such a beautiful way, and I can't wait for more.
Some of these have spoilers, so read at your own risk.
We finally get to see Tatiana's POV, who is my second favorite character behind Quill. She's badass, and with what happened during Dawnstar, I'm glad to see her getting the development she deserves. She feels the most regret I think, with Cistine getting kidnapped. She and Quill (QuillIana for the WIN!) set off on their own adventure. They discover that ancient horrors are returning to their world, but they also work through their own personal issues, and the way they are written, they feel equally important. I appreciate that in a book because weaving interpersonal drama with objective plot stuff is not easy. It is handled spectacularly here.
Cistine has been kidnapped by her most powerful enemy, and Ashe is banished from the cabal. She has nowhere to turn except back home, where she can hopefully get help. She is joined by my third favorite character, Pippet, which is a brilliant choice because they're basically the same person. They are found by Rion, someone who Ashe respects and admires, and some of her allies from Talheim. Aden finds them not long after, and they all travel north to figure out a way to get Cistine back. I love the character development for Ashe in this one, because she finally begins to push back against to the bigotry she was raised in. Standing up to enemies is easy. Standing up to friends is hard.
Meanwhile, Cistine is imprisoned, tortured, and humiliated, and every time I started one of her chapters, I felt dread. Many books, movies, and TV shows like to skip over the parts where the protagonists go through trauma, or they downplay them, or maybe have one (1) traumatic event; but not Dugan. The stakes start high, and only get higher. Cistine is the only woman among an unholy amount of men, but at least she's not alone. Thorne gets [his stupid ass] caught, and they
give each other hope. I'm keeping the best character a secret though, because spoilers. This whole arc just stressed me out in so many ways: the humiliation, the crawling through the vents, the fact Salvotor is there the whole time and has NO MERCY (and Dugan by proxy), and the utter physical harm these characters went through. Oh, and Devitrius can go die. The trauma is real, and it'll continue to be real, because that's the way PTSD works. I'm looking forward to seeing Cistine overcome this and grow into the queen she is meant to be.
I mostly love this book because of how hyped I got when our heroes gained even one inch against their opponents. The lows are low, but the highs are exciting as hell. The end is cathartic, and wraps up in such a beautiful way, and I can't wait for more.
November 30, 2020
Though slower paced than the first two in this series, Nightwing delved deeper into each of the characters that I have grown to love with my whole heart. I enjoyed having space to breathe with their development, and getting to know them at a level beneath the surface.
•
My gut soured in every of Cistine’s early scenes, though it made her eventual success all the much sweeter. Though Dugan had me on tender hooks there too for a hot minute!!!
•
Nightwing is so much darker and more emotionally driven than the rest, but if you know me you know I guiltily love the darkness. I found myself messaging Renee a few times with my heart in my hands going “WHY?!”
•
I wasn’t able to devour this book as quickly as the first and second, whether that was due to the pace, my fear of turning the page for more daunting situations for my favourite characters of all time, or my muggle life getting in the way — we’ll never know, but I loved every moment.
•
Another glowing five star read from Dugan, and I’m gonna be a mess if I can’t read the fourth soon!
•
My gut soured in every of Cistine’s early scenes, though it made her eventual success all the much sweeter. Though Dugan had me on tender hooks there too for a hot minute!!!
•
Nightwing is so much darker and more emotionally driven than the rest, but if you know me you know I guiltily love the darkness. I found myself messaging Renee a few times with my heart in my hands going “WHY?!”
•
I wasn’t able to devour this book as quickly as the first and second, whether that was due to the pace, my fear of turning the page for more daunting situations for my favourite characters of all time, or my muggle life getting in the way — we’ll never know, but I loved every moment.
•
Another glowing five star read from Dugan, and I’m gonna be a mess if I can’t read the fourth soon!
July 4, 2023
4 stars - I just didn't love this as much as the other installments! The writing was still great as usual, but because the characters were all separated, I feel like we lost a lot of the camaraderie and humour that we see when they're all together.
Nightwing is unique in the series because I think for the first time we see a lot more depth into the fantasy elements of this world, maybe things that have been alluded to previously but not shown, so that was interesting for sure.
It must have been tough to write, which is why I'm still giving it a good rating. For the purpose of the book, which was essentially one big rescue mission plus a few very important character arcs, it achieved what it needed to. It was brutal to read a lot of the time, Dugan doesn't shy away from writing horrible characters and the actions that make them so evil.
I didn't love Ashe's perspective in this book, but I did really enjoy her character arc, it definitely needed to happen the way it did, and Cistine grew a whole lot too, I loved seeing her being all queenly and independent against people who still saw her as a useless, bookish princess.
Now the gang is back together again, I'm excited for book 4.
SPOILER AHEAD:
If Pippet doesn't get a chance to ride that dragon I'm gonna be really sad.
Nightwing is unique in the series because I think for the first time we see a lot more depth into the fantasy elements of this world, maybe things that have been alluded to previously but not shown, so that was interesting for sure.
It must have been tough to write, which is why I'm still giving it a good rating. For the purpose of the book, which was essentially one big rescue mission plus a few very important character arcs, it achieved what it needed to. It was brutal to read a lot of the time, Dugan doesn't shy away from writing horrible characters and the actions that make them so evil.
I didn't love Ashe's perspective in this book, but I did really enjoy her character arc, it definitely needed to happen the way it did, and Cistine grew a whole lot too, I loved seeing her being all queenly and independent against people who still saw her as a useless, bookish princess.
Now the gang is back together again, I'm excited for book 4.
SPOILER AHEAD:
If Pippet doesn't get a chance to ride that dragon I'm gonna be really sad.
April 29, 2021
Well, this was a much darker book than the others. A lot happens which each member of the cabal. We get more POVs in this book.
Ashe is one of my favorites and I loved seeing her learn from her mistakes and become this amazing fierce person who wants to do what’s right in heart and not listen to those who tell her otherwise. She has a lot of back and forth, but in the end the good always wins. Then we get to see from Tati’s POV and I am all about that! Her and Quill, such a great team and seeing them grow as a team and as friends was emotional but so good. And then Cistine who is still learning about herself and what she can do, and now having to go through some quite traumatic experiences, and having to learn to be an even stronger person. I love how they all come together to help each other no matter where they are, or who they’re with, they’re always there for each other, just like a family should be.
This poor cabal goes through so much in this book, and after that ending, can’t imagine what more is in store for them. Quill is my favorite and he needs to be okay, forever. And I’m super excited to read about Ashe and Maleck in the next book, FINALLY.
Ashe is one of my favorites and I loved seeing her learn from her mistakes and become this amazing fierce person who wants to do what’s right in heart and not listen to those who tell her otherwise. She has a lot of back and forth, but in the end the good always wins. Then we get to see from Tati’s POV and I am all about that! Her and Quill, such a great team and seeing them grow as a team and as friends was emotional but so good. And then Cistine who is still learning about herself and what she can do, and now having to go through some quite traumatic experiences, and having to learn to be an even stronger person. I love how they all come together to help each other no matter where they are, or who they’re with, they’re always there for each other, just like a family should be.
This poor cabal goes through so much in this book, and after that ending, can’t imagine what more is in store for them. Quill is my favorite and he needs to be okay, forever. And I’m super excited to read about Ashe and Maleck in the next book, FINALLY.
December 1, 2020
This book is absolutely incredible! When I received the chance to read it, I could not put it down until I had read every last word. The moment you think you have a handle on what’s going on, Dugan throws another twist at you that equally shred your heart, makes you gasp and motivates you to keep turning the page.
The multiple points of view allow you to connect to so many characters. You root for them, you sympathize with them, and you want to fight next to them every step of the way (hint, hint, my favorite girl is Ashe and I was SCREAMING through most of her story, ready to rip people apart for her.)
Dugan creates this world in the most epic and immersive ways. It’s as if you are standing right next to these characters, feeling the damp walls of a cell, the biting freeze of snow whipping across your face or smelling the burning of wood as the blazing fire in front of you flushed your cheeks.
𝐍𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐰𝐢𝐧𝐠 is a story unlike any other, ready to take you on a journey that you will finish with a spinning mind and an overwhelming craving for more.
The multiple points of view allow you to connect to so many characters. You root for them, you sympathize with them, and you want to fight next to them every step of the way (hint, hint, my favorite girl is Ashe and I was SCREAMING through most of her story, ready to rip people apart for her.)
Dugan creates this world in the most epic and immersive ways. It’s as if you are standing right next to these characters, feeling the damp walls of a cell, the biting freeze of snow whipping across your face or smelling the burning of wood as the blazing fire in front of you flushed your cheeks.
𝐍𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐰𝐢𝐧𝐠 is a story unlike any other, ready to take you on a journey that you will finish with a spinning mind and an overwhelming craving for more.
January 13, 2021
Another book, another favorite read!
This installment in the Starchaser Saga only deepens the character relationships set up in the first two books. It was darker, yes, but it made the pay-off that much more satisfying. We also got several character moments we've anticipated for two books now!
I also enjoyed the tone of this book. While NIGHTWING dealt with some intense issues, it was nice to see the relationships deepen through the conflict. We also delved a little more into the lore of the world, which aside from the characters, is where this series really shines.
I cannot wait to read the next installment! I needed it yesterday, ha.
This installment in the Starchaser Saga only deepens the character relationships set up in the first two books. It was darker, yes, but it made the pay-off that much more satisfying. We also got several character moments we've anticipated for two books now!
I also enjoyed the tone of this book. While NIGHTWING dealt with some intense issues, it was nice to see the relationships deepen through the conflict. We also delved a little more into the lore of the world, which aside from the characters, is where this series really shines.
I cannot wait to read the next installment! I needed it yesterday, ha.
October 17, 2021
Another solid example of fantastic storytelling by the very talented Ms. Dugan. As before, I am so impressed with Ms. Dugan's ability to pull me so deeply into her world. This book has a darker tone than the first two, but the author handles the tough topics and themes with maturity and grace.
September 27, 2021
Loved the book!
Amazing as the rest of the Starchaser series!
Can't wait to read the rest of it.
Amazing as the rest of the Starchaser series!
Can't wait to read the rest of it.
November 30, 2020
*I received an ARC of the book in exchange for an honest review*.
This book has CAPTURED my heart and soul! Nightwing is absolutely triumphant. Usually by book three of a series, I begin to lose interest, but despite the slower pace of this book, I was enthralled.
Nightwing has a noticeable tonal shift from the first two books. It’s dark, mature, and so layered, showing the characters growth and development as well as the author’s style. I loved the emotional elements present in this book. Cistine and Thorne’s accurate to life exploration of trauma and their communication styles was beautifully written, and shows Dugan’s mastery of characterization and plot.
The return characters- the loveable cabal- all get deeper and more compelling, but that does not mean they outshine the new faces we meet. Dugan has a talent for capturing a character’s essence in a few words, especially the new villains introduced. The worldbuilding is equally rich and vast, somehow both detailed and expansive at the same time. And while I’m sure Dugan will continue to surprise me, the direction of the series at this point feels well earned and well plotted. The soft cliff hanger has me desperate for more.
Magical, emotional, and heart stopping, Nightwing is the perfect third installment to the Starchaser Saga. It’s well worth a read, and maybe a reread.
This book has CAPTURED my heart and soul! Nightwing is absolutely triumphant. Usually by book three of a series, I begin to lose interest, but despite the slower pace of this book, I was enthralled.
Nightwing has a noticeable tonal shift from the first two books. It’s dark, mature, and so layered, showing the characters growth and development as well as the author’s style. I loved the emotional elements present in this book. Cistine and Thorne’s accurate to life exploration of trauma and their communication styles was beautifully written, and shows Dugan’s mastery of characterization and plot.
The return characters- the loveable cabal- all get deeper and more compelling, but that does not mean they outshine the new faces we meet. Dugan has a talent for capturing a character’s essence in a few words, especially the new villains introduced. The worldbuilding is equally rich and vast, somehow both detailed and expansive at the same time. And while I’m sure Dugan will continue to surprise me, the direction of the series at this point feels well earned and well plotted. The soft cliff hanger has me desperate for more.
Magical, emotional, and heart stopping, Nightwing is the perfect third installment to the Starchaser Saga. It’s well worth a read, and maybe a reread.
December 31, 2020
What a story!
Honestly, I havent read something with such rich characters for a while!
A little confession here- I read the first book and then jumped onto the third one. I still have to read the second part. Which I cannot wait to coz I have heard it has great character building.
Reading Nightwing never made me feel like I have missed on a second part though. Everything was so well written and the story carried out itself so perfectly that from the beginning you just sink in the world and would not want to return again.
I connect to the main character Cistine on so many levels. I love her character so much!
The action and thrill is what kept me reading on.
This book is surely darker compared to the initial story and every emotion is so well balanced in this book.
The writing style is something I absolutely love about this book and whole series.
I plan on finishing the second part very soon. I am pretty sure I am going to love it because I love these characters so much.
A rich storyline with near perfect characters. Highly recommend this series.
Honestly, I havent read something with such rich characters for a while!
A little confession here- I read the first book and then jumped onto the third one. I still have to read the second part. Which I cannot wait to coz I have heard it has great character building.
Reading Nightwing never made me feel like I have missed on a second part though. Everything was so well written and the story carried out itself so perfectly that from the beginning you just sink in the world and would not want to return again.
I connect to the main character Cistine on so many levels. I love her character so much!
The action and thrill is what kept me reading on.
This book is surely darker compared to the initial story and every emotion is so well balanced in this book.
The writing style is something I absolutely love about this book and whole series.
I plan on finishing the second part very soon. I am pretty sure I am going to love it because I love these characters so much.
A rich storyline with near perfect characters. Highly recommend this series.
December 28, 2020
Oh my god what to even say? This is certainly a darker story than the first two, but there is also so much love and healing even in the face of trauma and violence. I think it was definitely a logical path for Cistine to go down, and nothing in the story ever feels gratuitous, there's a necessary explanation behind all of Renee's choices.
As always, I am such a huge fan of Renee's writing, and I feel that it shines immensely during this story. In darkness there is also light, and Renee always strives to show us this. I also love the development of Cistine and Thorne's dynamic!
As always, I am such a huge fan of Renee's writing, and I feel that it shines immensely during this story. In darkness there is also light, and Renee always strives to show us this. I also love the development of Cistine and Thorne's dynamic!
April 5, 2023
"I will follow you always, Wildheart." He traced the curve of her cheek with his thumb, forging a glowing path in the darkness. "With my whole heart. For my whole life."
I’m not ready for what’s to come 💀
I’m not ready for what’s to come 💀
October 16, 2021
Another book done! And I have zero words. Actually, I probably have some words 👀 but I don't know if I should say them - for fear of spoilers🙈
This book...THIS BOOK is so much more than the others before it. I tried listening to the soundtrack that Mama Nay sent me and I just couldn't 😭😭😭 I can pictured every song going for A SPECIFIC SCENE OR COUPLE and I'm just 😭😭😭
When I say torturous - I MEAN TORTUROUS - I have NEVER liked The Chancellor Salvotor (I mean, who would!) But I feel like he just set in motion something The Cabal is NOT prepared for in the slightest...and I don't know if I'm prepared for it either...I might need a break before hitting Lightfall😭😭😭 because I know certain characters leave and go someplace else on a super important mission and I don't know if I'm ready for the torture of what they and the rest of The Cabal will no doubt go through...😭
How do you do this to you babies?😭😭 Asking for a friend. As a writer myself, this is just 💔💔💔😭😭😭
This book...THIS BOOK is so much more than the others before it. I tried listening to the soundtrack that Mama Nay sent me and I just couldn't 😭😭😭 I can pictured every song going for A SPECIFIC SCENE OR COUPLE and I'm just 😭😭😭
When I say torturous - I MEAN TORTUROUS - I have NEVER liked The Chancellor Salvotor (I mean, who would!) But I feel like he just set in motion something The Cabal is NOT prepared for in the slightest...and I don't know if I'm prepared for it either...I might need a break before hitting Lightfall😭😭😭 because I know certain characters leave and go someplace else on a super important mission and I don't know if I'm ready for the torture of what they and the rest of The Cabal will no doubt go through...😭
How do you do this to you babies?😭😭 Asking for a friend. As a writer myself, this is just 💔💔💔😭😭😭
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 13, 2023
Started out slow but really pickup up again; I love these characters so much!!
July 16, 2024
The Starchaser Saga’s third instalment is filled with higher stakes, ups and downs, twists you won’t have seen coming, and an emphasis on resilience at its core. With revelations coming to light, intense conflict and wholesome character development, it makes for a compelling continuation of Cistine’s story…
“They could do this. And they would; they’d bring their princess home.”
I was transfixed by events in each location, and wanting to hear what happened next there whenever we were left on a cliff-hanger. But then I'd read the next instalment from another location and want to hear about that one most instead! This was a great way to continuously hold tension, passing it between the 3 different locations until they interlinked.
There was a noticeable shift away from what we have come to expect, keeping us on our toes. Relationship dynamics progress, the cabal are separated for longer, and challenges are harsher.
I enjoyed how even the villainous characters (besides Salvotor) were normal people in bad situations – not faceless guards representing evil, but each nuanced and human. This not only made them more believable, but brought solace from the otherwise harsh reality of the circumstances.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and can't wait for the next!
“They could do this. And they would; they’d bring their princess home.”
I was transfixed by events in each location, and wanting to hear what happened next there whenever we were left on a cliff-hanger. But then I'd read the next instalment from another location and want to hear about that one most instead! This was a great way to continuously hold tension, passing it between the 3 different locations until they interlinked.
There was a noticeable shift away from what we have come to expect, keeping us on our toes. Relationship dynamics progress, the cabal are separated for longer, and challenges are harsher.
I enjoyed how even the villainous characters (besides Salvotor) were normal people in bad situations – not faceless guards representing evil, but each nuanced and human. This not only made them more believable, but brought solace from the otherwise harsh reality of the circumstances.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and can't wait for the next!
December 18, 2022
AMAZING.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
I am sincerely hooked on this series and hopefully these reviews are convincing y’all to pick these books up. They need more love.
This will be a more vague review to keep away from spoilers, but know I LOVED IT.
I love this entire cast. There’s so many fantastic people. All with unique personalities, common goals, strengths and weaknesses. It’s all there. I love that they don’t always make the exact right choice. They’re flawed and growing and it’s my favorite.
There’s a few romance sub plots that got a little more speed this time and I ADORE them. Seeing some of those kiss scenes finally happen, HECK YEAH.
The ending hurt. Oh it did. I love the flow of story with rises and falls and how Dugan always leaves me wanting more.
Overall audience notes:
- Fantasy + Romance
- Language: very little
- Romance: kisses; an implied closed door
- Violence: high
- Trigger/Content Warnings: mentions of rape and sexual assault, PTSD, sexual assault and harassment , physical and weapons violence, abuse, torture, war themes
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
I am sincerely hooked on this series and hopefully these reviews are convincing y’all to pick these books up. They need more love.
This will be a more vague review to keep away from spoilers, but know I LOVED IT.
I love this entire cast. There’s so many fantastic people. All with unique personalities, common goals, strengths and weaknesses. It’s all there. I love that they don’t always make the exact right choice. They’re flawed and growing and it’s my favorite.
There’s a few romance sub plots that got a little more speed this time and I ADORE them. Seeing some of those kiss scenes finally happen, HECK YEAH.
The ending hurt. Oh it did. I love the flow of story with rises and falls and how Dugan always leaves me wanting more.
Overall audience notes:
- Fantasy + Romance
- Language: very little
- Romance: kisses; an implied closed door
- Violence: high
- Trigger/Content Warnings: mentions of rape and sexual assault, PTSD, sexual assault and harassment , physical and weapons violence, abuse, torture, war themes
January 16, 2023
Once again I am singing Renee Dugan's praises, this book exceeded all my expectations (and I had high ones considering the first 2 books were fantastic too)! There is more mature, darker content that I think is very appropriate given the plot. Cistine has been taken prisoner and is abused and sexually harassed and while I hate for anyone, fictional or not, to go through that I found it very compelling. I am so happy that even though there is so much suffering in this book, there is also some pure joy. Tatiana and Quill finally join and Cistine and Thorne finally share their first beautifully romantic and magical kiss!
I truly cannot put into words how much I adore this series more and more with each book I read! Renee Dugan does such a fantabulous job developing each character in the book even if they aren't the main focus. I love the covers and the obvious thought that went into them and the book titles (I see what you did there Renee).
I can't wait to start reading Lightfall (literally the moment I post this review)! Lots of love!
I truly cannot put into words how much I adore this series more and more with each book I read! Renee Dugan does such a fantabulous job developing each character in the book even if they aren't the main focus. I love the covers and the obvious thought that went into them and the book titles (I see what you did there Renee).
I can't wait to start reading Lightfall (literally the moment I post this review)! Lots of love!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 7, 2020
This book has ruined me heart and soul. Renee does an amazing job with everything in this book and I can’t wait to see what she has next for my babies (although I hope she starts being a bit nicer to them).
December 16, 2020
This was heartbreaking, exhilarating, and just---the story is GETTING BETTER.
CISTINE AND THORNE 😭
CISTINE AND THORNE 😭
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