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The Starchaser Saga #7
Wildheart
Help has come to Talheim—but at a cost.
For a year, the Middle Kingdom and their Valgardan allies have followed Princess Cistine and Chancellor Thorne in battle against King Jad and the armies of Mahasar, waging the war none of them ever wanted to fight.
But it’s more than a war…it’s a game that’s entering its final stages.
The balance tips with the arrival of a mysterious Mahasari woman offering peace for a price—one the royal family is reluctant to pay. With their people in peril and the future unsure, the cabal divides on clandestine missions, fighting to weave a strategy that will save the kingdoms they love.
Spirits must be awakened. Schemes must be thwarted. Captives must be set free. And all the while an unseen danger stalks their heels, threatening to turn the tide in the enemy’s favor through one dark, fatal truth.
Winning the war between the Three Kingdoms may mean playing directly into Jad’s hands, pushing his game to a deadly and epic conclusion—one that will alter the course of Talheim’s destiny.
For a year, the Middle Kingdom and their Valgardan allies have followed Princess Cistine and Chancellor Thorne in battle against King Jad and the armies of Mahasar, waging the war none of them ever wanted to fight.
But it’s more than a war…it’s a game that’s entering its final stages.
The balance tips with the arrival of a mysterious Mahasari woman offering peace for a price—one the royal family is reluctant to pay. With their people in peril and the future unsure, the cabal divides on clandestine missions, fighting to weave a strategy that will save the kingdoms they love.
Spirits must be awakened. Schemes must be thwarted. Captives must be set free. And all the while an unseen danger stalks their heels, threatening to turn the tide in the enemy’s favor through one dark, fatal truth.
Winning the war between the Three Kingdoms may mean playing directly into Jad’s hands, pushing his game to a deadly and epic conclusion—one that will alter the course of Talheim’s destiny.
- GenresFantasy
474 pages, Paperback
First published December 6, 2022
8 people are currently reading
204 people want to read
About the author
Renee Dugan
16 books177 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 37 reviews
May 17, 2023
I received this book as an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
Let me start off by saying, I am the absolute biggest fan of this series. I have loved it since the moment I picked up the first book, and I was extremely excited to receive this copy.
This book was everything I wanted, needed and definitely didn't expect.
I was overjoyed by the way this story went and how the author decided to end this series. I couldn’t think of any other way I would’ve wanted the story itself to go. I can’t say much more without spoiling it, but it was incredible.
Also, I <3 Thorne.
This book was absolutely incredible and the perfect way to tie up the end of the series.
Let me start off by saying, I am the absolute biggest fan of this series. I have loved it since the moment I picked up the first book, and I was extremely excited to receive this copy.
This book was everything I wanted, needed and definitely didn't expect.
I was overjoyed by the way this story went and how the author decided to end this series. I couldn’t think of any other way I would’ve wanted the story itself to go. I can’t say much more without spoiling it, but it was incredible.
Also, I <3 Thorne.
This book was absolutely incredible and the perfect way to tie up the end of the series.
November 26, 2022
Oh man, I am struggling to put words to something this deeply felt.
I finished Wildheart this morning despite being in the throws of a terrible migraine, simply because I could not put it down. Upon reflection, the headache might have been a result of the copious tears shed reading this final installment of the Starchaser Saga.
From a writing standpoint, this book had my favorite prose of the entire series. I don't know how she managed it, but Dugan somehow surpassed her own talent from books before and truly penned a magnificent masterclass in writing craft. I was blown away by some of the simple, evocative lines, and there were several moments where I caught myself whispering, "I wish I could write like that" in pure awe.
This book, and this series overall, is a story of triumph and sacrifice. It's a close examination of how bonds and relationships make and break us, and how our humanity is truly what makes us all divine and powerful.
Cistine and Thorne will forever be some of my favorite characters ever written. The conclusion to their story will echo through my head for years to come. Though the choices they made in this book were challenging, I loved that Dugan was not afraid to let her beloved characters grapple with complex decisions. And the rest of the cabal, as always, made my heart soar and ripped it out again repeatedly.
That being said, I am so satisfied with how it all turned out. There was a beautiful blend of sacrifice, loss, and triumph that left nothing to be desired.
Bittersweet, brilliant, and bold, Wildheart lives up to its name and is the perfect conclusion to the best Epic Fantasy Saga of the decade.
I finished Wildheart this morning despite being in the throws of a terrible migraine, simply because I could not put it down. Upon reflection, the headache might have been a result of the copious tears shed reading this final installment of the Starchaser Saga.
From a writing standpoint, this book had my favorite prose of the entire series. I don't know how she managed it, but Dugan somehow surpassed her own talent from books before and truly penned a magnificent masterclass in writing craft. I was blown away by some of the simple, evocative lines, and there were several moments where I caught myself whispering, "I wish I could write like that" in pure awe.
This book, and this series overall, is a story of triumph and sacrifice. It's a close examination of how bonds and relationships make and break us, and how our humanity is truly what makes us all divine and powerful.
Cistine and Thorne will forever be some of my favorite characters ever written. The conclusion to their story will echo through my head for years to come. Though the choices they made in this book were challenging, I loved that Dugan was not afraid to let her beloved characters grapple with complex decisions. And the rest of the cabal, as always, made my heart soar and ripped it out again repeatedly.
That being said, I am so satisfied with how it all turned out. There was a beautiful blend of sacrifice, loss, and triumph that left nothing to be desired.
Bittersweet, brilliant, and bold, Wildheart lives up to its name and is the perfect conclusion to the best Epic Fantasy Saga of the decade.
January 16, 2023
I’m crying as I write this. Renee, this book is the perfect conclusion to this incredible saga. It was a pleasure and a privilege to read Cistine and the Cabel’s journey. I am so sad to see their stories come to an end but I am so incredibly happy that you will not longer be destroying their happiness (leave them be please). Thank you so so so much.
August 21, 2022
Thank you to Renee who kindly sent an ARC for review! It saved me 4 months of desperately waiting for release 😂
This was the perfect conclusion to this incredible saga, tying up loose ends but also leaving room for further storytelling to come. I will lap up absolutely anything to do with this world.
Wildheart takes place 9 months after the events of Dragonfire, so we are deep into the war with Mahasar. It was so interesting learning about this new country and their culture, plus the war between countries was so different than the previous 6 books. This war is personal, and the stakes were so high with the Mad King Jad's method of capturing spies to do his bidding.
I found the beginning a little slow just because we were thrust into this new war, augments no longer played such a large part, and there was a lot of world building to create the picture of Mahasar that previously we'd only really heard of.
But when the action started it did not stop. There were constant twists and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat and I can't even begin to describe my emotions from 70% onwards.
I LOVED Aden's arc in this book, it felt like he was finally beginning to see his worth and to fight his own perceived flaws. He FINALLY let's himself be happy and it was just beautiful.
Mira has always been such a gorgeous character and seeing her as a warrior, counsellor and a mum whilst overcoming her own grief was so heart wrenching.
I loved the stability of our other Cabal members, Quill getting his own flying companion was BRILLIANT, and seeing Rozalie's character grow with the prospect of her own future romance was 😍😍😍
Thorne and Cistiiiiine. Oh my days that was a wild ride. Even though it was hard to read when they argued, it was honestly perfect. Like of course this crazy thing that's happened to Cistine is going to cause a gigantic rift, of course Thorne is going to try and be the perfect husband and think of solutions and of course Cistine is going to be her stubborn self and kick against it.
It was all just so entirely them, and I couldn't imagine it being any different.
I am so grateful that we got a happy ending. But also that it's not a fairy tale happy ever after. After all, this is a saga about warriors and rulers, so there will always be glimmers of conflict on the horizon, but I am just so happy that for at least the time that these characters have been in my life, I know that they'll be ok.
'With all my heart.'
'For all my life.'
This was the perfect conclusion to this incredible saga, tying up loose ends but also leaving room for further storytelling to come. I will lap up absolutely anything to do with this world.
Wildheart takes place 9 months after the events of Dragonfire, so we are deep into the war with Mahasar. It was so interesting learning about this new country and their culture, plus the war between countries was so different than the previous 6 books. This war is personal, and the stakes were so high with the Mad King Jad's method of capturing spies to do his bidding.
I found the beginning a little slow just because we were thrust into this new war, augments no longer played such a large part, and there was a lot of world building to create the picture of Mahasar that previously we'd only really heard of.
But when the action started it did not stop. There were constant twists and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat and I can't even begin to describe my emotions from 70% onwards.
I LOVED Aden's arc in this book, it felt like he was finally beginning to see his worth and to fight his own perceived flaws. He FINALLY let's himself be happy and it was just beautiful.
Mira has always been such a gorgeous character and seeing her as a warrior, counsellor and a mum whilst overcoming her own grief was so heart wrenching.
I loved the stability of our other Cabal members, Quill getting his own flying companion was BRILLIANT, and seeing Rozalie's character grow with the prospect of her own future romance was 😍😍😍
Thorne and Cistiiiiine. Oh my days that was a wild ride. Even though it was hard to read when they argued, it was honestly perfect. Like of course this crazy thing that's happened to Cistine is going to cause a gigantic rift, of course Thorne is going to try and be the perfect husband and think of solutions and of course Cistine is going to be her stubborn self and kick against it.
It was all just so entirely them, and I couldn't imagine it being any different.
I am so grateful that we got a happy ending. But also that it's not a fairy tale happy ever after. After all, this is a saga about warriors and rulers, so there will always be glimmers of conflict on the horizon, but I am just so happy that for at least the time that these characters have been in my life, I know that they'll be ok.
'With all my heart.'
'For all my life.'
December 6, 2022
Warning: This review may cause spoiler-y assumptions.
“Back then… it was just supposed to be an ordinary caravan raid.”
If this line doesn’t stick out to all the fans of Starchaser, they’re reading too fast. This book was the coming home and the best conclusion to the series. There is hope and growth for the best cabal I’ve ever known. I loved the entire series. I will read it again because these characters are so lovable and real, I miss them now that it’s over.
I read ¾ of this book with bated breath, terrified of what would befall my beloved friends. I was afraid for the new dragon on the scene. YES. ANOTHER DRAGON. My heart. He’s like a rambunctious puppy. I was afraid for Thorne. For Cistine. For Quill and Tatiana. I’m always worried for those two. For King Cyril. My mind wandered with terrifying possibilities.
This is a war story, after all, so sadness is lurking, but I am so satisfied with this ending. I can re-read the series without crying in a heap. Maybe that’s kind of spoilery and maybe some readers will want devastation. But I loved how it all turns out.
And I’d be remiss not to mention the humor woven throughout. Quill and Maleck will forever be my favorite banterers. I laughed out loud at many of their quips… these boys that use their teasing humor to express their love for each other and their friends.
And words like this:
“We need more nobility in this world...more love like that. The kind that would fling itself at the mercy of the gods to save what matters most.”
This book inspires. It shows the meaning of sacrifice and love. It shows what’s important: love and people over power and riches. The cabal knows. They’ve sacrificed years of their lives for it. And to bring the kingdoms to peace times, it's worth it.
Pick up this series and this book.
I was given an eArc in exchange for an honest review, but I have already read the entire series and pre-ordered Wildheart before the eArc was even a possibility in my mind. I had just finished reading book six and didn’t want to wait for Wildheart’s release any longer hahaha The opportunity arose and I jumped at it. Love the series!
“Back then… it was just supposed to be an ordinary caravan raid.”
If this line doesn’t stick out to all the fans of Starchaser, they’re reading too fast. This book was the coming home and the best conclusion to the series. There is hope and growth for the best cabal I’ve ever known. I loved the entire series. I will read it again because these characters are so lovable and real, I miss them now that it’s over.
I read ¾ of this book with bated breath, terrified of what would befall my beloved friends. I was afraid for the new dragon on the scene. YES. ANOTHER DRAGON. My heart. He’s like a rambunctious puppy. I was afraid for Thorne. For Cistine. For Quill and Tatiana. I’m always worried for those two. For King Cyril. My mind wandered with terrifying possibilities.
This is a war story, after all, so sadness is lurking, but I am so satisfied with this ending. I can re-read the series without crying in a heap. Maybe that’s kind of spoilery and maybe some readers will want devastation. But I loved how it all turns out.
And I’d be remiss not to mention the humor woven throughout. Quill and Maleck will forever be my favorite banterers. I laughed out loud at many of their quips… these boys that use their teasing humor to express their love for each other and their friends.
And words like this:
“We need more nobility in this world...more love like that. The kind that would fling itself at the mercy of the gods to save what matters most.”
This book inspires. It shows the meaning of sacrifice and love. It shows what’s important: love and people over power and riches. The cabal knows. They’ve sacrificed years of their lives for it. And to bring the kingdoms to peace times, it's worth it.
Pick up this series and this book.
I was given an eArc in exchange for an honest review, but I have already read the entire series and pre-ordered Wildheart before the eArc was even a possibility in my mind. I had just finished reading book six and didn’t want to wait for Wildheart’s release any longer hahaha The opportunity arose and I jumped at it. Love the series!
November 22, 2022
A perfect book to end an incredible series!! My heart is exploding with how much I love these characters and this world. I could've never felt this connection without Renee's masterful writing and genius storytelling. Wildheart is a culmination of all the love, triumph, and loss the Cabal have endured and brings readers to a place they will never forget. I'm so grateful for this series! It's bittersweet to finish this book. As Renee says in her acknowledgements, "The end of a saga is always painful even when it’s beautiful."
September 21, 2024
Fantastic conclusion to this series! I loved how everything wrapped up and many happy tears were shed. I will miss the cabal and already can’t wait for a re-read! Definitely my favorite series ever.
December 6, 2022
How do you write a review for the last book in one of your favorite series? I’m not sure, but I’ll try. ❤️
When I say I wept reading this book, I mean it in the most literal, bent over the pages, tears rolling down my cheeks, had to pause and let myself cry kind of way. Hopeful tears, healing tears. It had everything to do with the book and these characters that I love... and everything to do with me. 😭
“WELL, THAT’S WHAT A PRINCESS DOES. SHE SPREADS HOPE.”
Cistine and her cabal have done just that for me. This whole series has been a case of right book, right time. Of connecting deeply with characters and their journeys. I’ve read many of these books in a day. I've reached for them to re-read, getting lost in Valgard and Talheim for hours, only to realize it was the middle of the night. I’ve laughed and cried, winced and cheered my way through this series. This installment was no exception.
WILDHEART is such a warm, hopeful send off for this saga. It’s full of heartbreak and hope, hurt and healing, relationships and rebuilding. My eyes blurred with tears reading the final pages. This cabal and their story is one I’ll hold close for years to come.❤️
“TO THE NEXT HORIZON. AND WHATEVER LAY BEYOND.”
When I say I wept reading this book, I mean it in the most literal, bent over the pages, tears rolling down my cheeks, had to pause and let myself cry kind of way. Hopeful tears, healing tears. It had everything to do with the book and these characters that I love... and everything to do with me. 😭
“WELL, THAT’S WHAT A PRINCESS DOES. SHE SPREADS HOPE.”
Cistine and her cabal have done just that for me. This whole series has been a case of right book, right time. Of connecting deeply with characters and their journeys. I’ve read many of these books in a day. I've reached for them to re-read, getting lost in Valgard and Talheim for hours, only to realize it was the middle of the night. I’ve laughed and cried, winced and cheered my way through this series. This installment was no exception.
WILDHEART is such a warm, hopeful send off for this saga. It’s full of heartbreak and hope, hurt and healing, relationships and rebuilding. My eyes blurred with tears reading the final pages. This cabal and their story is one I’ll hold close for years to come.❤️
“TO THE NEXT HORIZON. AND WHATEVER LAY BEYOND.”
June 6, 2023
BEAUTIFUL CONCLUSION.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
I can’t believe I finished this series!! It’s so satisfying to do so and I’m also going to miss all of these characters.
This cast was full of the found family love that I enjoy so much. I loved watching more arcs continue through them and to even see some characters get the ending they deserved too. I can’t talk a lot about it because I want everyone to go read this series and report back. But this group is easily one of my favorites of recent fantasy book memory.
If I was being a little nit picky I do wish one plot point was resolved a bit sooner. That’s just me and my romantic heart wanting more from that angle.
Otherwise, epic conclusion. Action packed and everything is wrapped up well. I was able to close the book on the story and I have loved the thousands of pages covered over all SEVEN of these books. I know the number may seem daunting, trust me it’s worth it!
Overall audience notes:
- Fantasy + Romance
- Language: a little
- Romance: closed door
- Violence: high
- Trigger/Content Warnings: battle themes, loss of loved ones, magical and physical attacks, weapons violence, near death experiences
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
I can’t believe I finished this series!! It’s so satisfying to do so and I’m also going to miss all of these characters.
This cast was full of the found family love that I enjoy so much. I loved watching more arcs continue through them and to even see some characters get the ending they deserved too. I can’t talk a lot about it because I want everyone to go read this series and report back. But this group is easily one of my favorites of recent fantasy book memory.
If I was being a little nit picky I do wish one plot point was resolved a bit sooner. That’s just me and my romantic heart wanting more from that angle.
Otherwise, epic conclusion. Action packed and everything is wrapped up well. I was able to close the book on the story and I have loved the thousands of pages covered over all SEVEN of these books. I know the number may seem daunting, trust me it’s worth it!
Overall audience notes:
- Fantasy + Romance
- Language: a little
- Romance: closed door
- Violence: high
- Trigger/Content Warnings: battle themes, loss of loved ones, magical and physical attacks, weapons violence, near death experiences
August 26, 2022
The astounding conclusion to one of the most epic stories of friendship, love, found family, and inner strength. I can’t wait to reread the whole series start to finish. Renee Dugan has written a masterpiece of a saga and you need to read it.
January 15, 2023
Well if you are here you probably:
Have read the previous six books and know they are all five star reads, so buckle up for this incredible final installment
OR
you found yourself here because of the amazing cover and if that’s the case - go to book one and start!
I don’t even fully know how to put into words how much I loved reading this series. I equal parts couldn’t wait to read this last book but also knew I didn’t want it to be over. The arcs for characters throughout this series has been my favorite part. Each character has grown so much and I just adore them. Renee created an incredible world and truly an epic journey. I will miss the relationships amongst the cabal, the friendships, the heartache and the healing. Just everything.
I am so grateful to have read this series and experience these characters. They will forever be in my heart.
Have read the previous six books and know they are all five star reads, so buckle up for this incredible final installment
OR
you found yourself here because of the amazing cover and if that’s the case - go to book one and start!
I don’t even fully know how to put into words how much I loved reading this series. I equal parts couldn’t wait to read this last book but also knew I didn’t want it to be over. The arcs for characters throughout this series has been my favorite part. Each character has grown so much and I just adore them. Renee created an incredible world and truly an epic journey. I will miss the relationships amongst the cabal, the friendships, the heartache and the healing. Just everything.
I am so grateful to have read this series and experience these characters. They will forever be in my heart.
January 15, 2023
I have no words. This whole series was a masterpiece. I love all the characters with all my heart. Renee Dugan is one of the best authors I have had the pleasure of reading.
This book was such a heartbreaking but beautiful ending for this series. If you haven't started this series you are missing out. I cannot wait for her next series!!!
This book was such a heartbreaking but beautiful ending for this series. If you haven't started this series you are missing out. I cannot wait for her next series!!!
February 21, 2023
Yup,
With the way the series ended, it's very plausible to revisit it, especially with
Am I the only one imagining them breaking flagons like those bendy sticks that glow in the dark? Lol
With the way the series ended, it's very plausible to revisit it, especially with
Am I the only one imagining them breaking flagons like those bendy sticks that glow in the dark? Lol
January 22, 2023
Thank you to the author for the gifted ebook.
What a beautiful conclusion to this epic saga! Even after her incredible journey through the series, Cistine still has lessons to learn about what it really means to be a leader, and the aftermath of the events of Dragonfire don’t make that any easier. It was frustrating to see her struggling with her identity again, but it needed to happen. Introducing so many new settings and characters in the last book of a series is a risk, but Renee pulled it off with the way her writing comes to life.
This book brings the series full circle, back to where and why the story started. As always, this was full of both heartbreaking and lovely moments. This book left me WEEPING on a plane because I just couldn’t wait to finish it in private. I love this cabal so much and I am sad to see them go, but each character ends up exactly where they need to be. While there is satisfying resolution for the main characters and plot lines, there are enough little threads left open to show that while this may be the end of the series, it is not the end of their stories.
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What a beautiful conclusion to this epic saga! Even after her incredible journey through the series, Cistine still has lessons to learn about what it really means to be a leader, and the aftermath of the events of Dragonfire don’t make that any easier. It was frustrating to see her struggling with her identity again, but it needed to happen. Introducing so many new settings and characters in the last book of a series is a risk, but Renee pulled it off with the way her writing comes to life.
This book brings the series full circle, back to where and why the story started. As always, this was full of both heartbreaking and lovely moments. This book left me WEEPING on a plane because I just couldn’t wait to finish it in private. I love this cabal so much and I am sad to see them go, but each character ends up exactly where they need to be. While there is satisfying resolution for the main characters and plot lines, there are enough little threads left open to show that while this may be the end of the series, it is not the end of their stories.
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December 10, 2022
after the ridiculous amount of tension in the last book, this book felt like a breath of fresh air (in some ways) and also a continuation of high stakes (in other ways, aka what happened to cistine as a result of the deathmarch).
my early morning thoughts after i stayed up all night to finish reading this book because i *had* to know how it was all going to be resolved:
i enjoyed how the adversary in this book was human, even if he was mad and unpredictable. it wasn't as death defying and despairing and insurmountable as the it felt when the cabal was fighting the bloodwights and the aeroprast (sp?). like. that book i was constantly crying and on edge that at any second, any one of the cabal might be on the edge of dying because previous encounters with the aeroprast proved fatal (with a near impossible revival through a healing augment). i’m glad this book focused on cistine’s self-isolation and her drive to prove herself, but i’m also sad because i missed her closeness with the cabal throughout the conflict (you can tell how much i yearn for and live for for found family vibes).
at the same time, i’m sososo glad that the book spent a generous amount of time on resolution and showing how everyone works through their issues and fulfills (in some way) their dreams and wishes. i know a lot of books that wouldn’t have given us those domestic scenes/working out the personal fulfillment issues (lol idk what to call it, but like aden’s subplot, maleck and ashe’s decision, thorne getting to talk with cistine’s dad), so i’m very grateful that renee dugan made the choice to give us time to breath and live with the characters that i've grown to know and love so much. it was a balm to my soul. <3
my early morning thoughts after i stayed up all night to finish reading this book because i *had* to know how it was all going to be resolved:
i enjoyed how the adversary in this book was human, even if he was mad and unpredictable. it wasn't as death defying and despairing and insurmountable as the it felt when the cabal was fighting the bloodwights and the aeroprast (sp?). like. that book i was constantly crying and on edge that at any second, any one of the cabal might be on the edge of dying because previous encounters with the aeroprast proved fatal (with a near impossible revival through a healing augment). i’m glad this book focused on cistine’s self-isolation and her drive to prove herself, but i’m also sad because i missed her closeness with the cabal throughout the conflict (you can tell how much i yearn for and live for for found family vibes).
at the same time, i’m sososo glad that the book spent a generous amount of time on resolution and showing how everyone works through their issues and fulfills (in some way) their dreams and wishes. i know a lot of books that wouldn’t have given us those domestic scenes/working out the personal fulfillment issues (lol idk what to call it, but like aden’s subplot, maleck and ashe’s decision, thorne getting to talk with cistine’s dad), so i’m very grateful that renee dugan made the choice to give us time to breath and live with the characters that i've grown to know and love so much. it was a balm to my soul. <3
December 8, 2022
It’s the end of an era. I wish I could write some eloquent review like some people can but I don’t have a way with words like Dugan does. What I will say is 1) I have commitment issues when it comes to series. It’s why I usually read stand alones or duologies. I often times get bored with anything longer than a trilogy. 2) although fantasy is my fav genre I usually need some spice to be added into it for it to keep my attention 3) although I don’t like to admit this I can be harsh when it comes to judging indie books (although I usually keep those thoughts to myself).
Now with all that being said, I LOVED this series. It is much longer than I usually read, a lot tamer in terms of spice, and just so so eloquently written. I consider this a comfort fantasy read. And I will absolutely buy anything else Dugan writes. There was something so wholesome about the found family aspect of this series. I don’t have much else to say but it was lovely ❤️
Now with all that being said, I LOVED this series. It is much longer than I usually read, a lot tamer in terms of spice, and just so so eloquently written. I consider this a comfort fantasy read. And I will absolutely buy anything else Dugan writes. There was something so wholesome about the found family aspect of this series. I don’t have much else to say but it was lovely ❤️
October 24, 2022
What a great ending to the series! I was lucky enough to get an ARC of this for an honest review and I am so glad I was able to.
Watching Cistine as she continued to grow and evolve has honestly been so fun. Going into this series I wasn’t expecting to fall in love with all of these characters as much as I did but I can definitely say that I am so so so glad that I did. And more so, I am glad that they all got the ending they deserved.
Watching Cistine as she continued to grow and evolve has honestly been so fun. Going into this series I wasn’t expecting to fall in love with all of these characters as much as I did but I can definitely say that I am so so so glad that I did. And more so, I am glad that they all got the ending they deserved.
December 7, 2022
The End of a Truly Remarkable Journey
Where do I even begin to describe the heart-swelling joy that this series brings me? It also bring chest-dropping, jaw clenching, teeth biting fear, angst and heartache...bit that is due to the mastery with which one R. Dugan weaves her stories. Also the way in which she imbues her characters with complexity, intrigue and ultimately humanity. For a fantastical tale of magic wielding, dragon riding and far off lands of wonder the stories are still filled with relatable fears, doubts, traumas and overall struggles that we all face in one way or another. This ever evolving cabal has my whole heart and I could not be happier with this final installment of their collective journeys.
This book truly had everything I could have wanted from a grand finale. I ooves the new characters and challenges. Dugan always manages to up the stakes each book but make it feel like a logical evolution from the previous story. There are new dangers and even more difficult choices to be made. It was an emotional rollercoaster but SUCH a satisfying ending.
Honestly, the ending felt like a series of endings. Beautifully wrapped up but with the feeling of more to come...it remindd me lf the ending of the LOTR movies. A gentle series of beautiful resolution.
BUT OOF. These characters never have it easy. Don't be fooled, you have to work to get to the finale...but it is oh so worth every heartache and tear shed.
Thank you for your beautiful, epic stories Renee!!! I feel so fortunate to have gone on this journey with the cabal. I feel like they'll always have a piece of my heart.
I received an ARC in exchange for my review but ALL opinions and thoughts are truly me own.
Where do I even begin to describe the heart-swelling joy that this series brings me? It also bring chest-dropping, jaw clenching, teeth biting fear, angst and heartache...bit that is due to the mastery with which one R. Dugan weaves her stories. Also the way in which she imbues her characters with complexity, intrigue and ultimately humanity. For a fantastical tale of magic wielding, dragon riding and far off lands of wonder the stories are still filled with relatable fears, doubts, traumas and overall struggles that we all face in one way or another. This ever evolving cabal has my whole heart and I could not be happier with this final installment of their collective journeys.
This book truly had everything I could have wanted from a grand finale. I ooves the new characters and challenges. Dugan always manages to up the stakes each book but make it feel like a logical evolution from the previous story. There are new dangers and even more difficult choices to be made. It was an emotional rollercoaster but SUCH a satisfying ending.
Honestly, the ending felt like a series of endings. Beautifully wrapped up but with the feeling of more to come...it remindd me lf the ending of the LOTR movies. A gentle series of beautiful resolution.
BUT OOF. These characters never have it easy. Don't be fooled, you have to work to get to the finale...but it is oh so worth every heartache and tear shed.
Thank you for your beautiful, epic stories Renee!!! I feel so fortunate to have gone on this journey with the cabal. I feel like they'll always have a piece of my heart.
I received an ARC in exchange for my review but ALL opinions and thoughts are truly me own.
December 21, 2023
I have waited the whole series to write a review, and my reviews of books are few and far between. But these books. THESE. BOOOOKKKSSS! I love them, I adore them, they are some of the best books ever! The cabal is found family at its very best! I didn't think I liked found family that much, but clearly I had just never experienced a really good found family book. I love the romantic pairings, don't get me wrong, but what shines in this series are the friendships! Like it's not just neat little pair offs, instead everybody has deep relationships with each other. Aden, Maleck, and Ashe, and Quill and Cistine, and Maleck, Ashe, and Cistine, and Mira, and Tatiana and Cistine, and Ariadne. Oh my gosh, it just never ends, they're all amazing. Truly. Seeing Cistine grow and become a force to reckon with while also keeping her love of knowledge, books, and all things gentle? I love her. I love all of them, I could actually go on for hours. Seeing them all find happiness and healing in the end impacted me in a way I cannot even express, I'm just so happy for all of them, and choose to ignore the whole debacle with Rion (my characters will live peacefully forever thank you very much), and just read the books. I can never say enough good and the moments of genuine vulnerability, friendship, and growth make all the pain worth it. Also, this author likes to keep people alive is she can help it. Thank me later!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 20, 2024
Simply a beautiful, hope-filled conclusion to the absolute gut-wrenching journey this saga put us through!
I am continually impressed with Dugan’s massive world building, the way she honors her characters, and beautiful prose and messaging throughout. Gorgeous!
Cistine’s final declaration about her inner journey really sealed this whole series. It was a rough ride to get there but so satisfying. I loved the twists and turns (and hated some of them in the best way!) but the shining prize in these books is the characters IMHO. Pop-off-the-page, unique, whole people live in those pages and I felt every bit of their journeys basically viscerally lol
Thank you Renee for such a wonderful, well done fantasy epic!
I am continually impressed with Dugan’s massive world building, the way she honors her characters, and beautiful prose and messaging throughout. Gorgeous!
Cistine’s final declaration about her inner journey really sealed this whole series. It was a rough ride to get there but so satisfying. I loved the twists and turns (and hated some of them in the best way!) but the shining prize in these books is the characters IMHO. Pop-off-the-page, unique, whole people live in those pages and I felt every bit of their journeys basically viscerally lol
Thank you Renee for such a wonderful, well done fantasy epic!
August 23, 2023
A beautiful ending to a heart-wrenching, emotional and amazing book!!!
September 6, 2022
4.5 out of 5 stars
What an amazing conclusion to the series! The only reason this one is rated slightly lower is because Cistine did irritate me a little bit in this one, and this is coming from someone who absolutely adores Cistine's character. I didn't necessarily agree with some of her choices, however this was probably the only gripe I had with an otherwise amazing final novel.
Aden, Mira and Nadeem literally own my heart and I found myself just utterly enthralled by the dynamics happening there.
Some of the twists and turns were so shocking and I was astounded at how Dugan tied everything together. It has been such a wonderful ride with these characters over the series, and I think we leave them in the perfect place.
What an amazing conclusion to the series! The only reason this one is rated slightly lower is because Cistine did irritate me a little bit in this one, and this is coming from someone who absolutely adores Cistine's character. I didn't necessarily agree with some of her choices, however this was probably the only gripe I had with an otherwise amazing final novel.
Aden, Mira and Nadeem literally own my heart and I found myself just utterly enthralled by the dynamics happening there.
Some of the twists and turns were so shocking and I was astounded at how Dugan tied everything together. It has been such a wonderful ride with these characters over the series, and I think we leave them in the perfect place.
November 17, 2025
I really wanted to like this book but it just had too many issues. Spoilers ahead
First, lets talk plot. The entire conflict begins and ends with this book but nothing actually happens. The character growth seems to have stalled out, no one dies, and it all just feels like filler. The author says herself she intended to finish after book 6 and it definitely shows. Clearly they just wanted the curse lifted from Cistine, but instead of doing something clever, like having them find another one of those singular flagons, or having her dad take the curse from her in sacrifice, the gods just give her another gift. It was so underwhelming because the book before literally ended with the same thing. I didn't care about anything that was happening, it all just felt like a really long side quest that I was not emotionally invested in at all. Getting through this one felt like such a slog compared to the other books in the series.
One of my biggest gripes that has haunted this entire series is what I call the "but then syndrome". Sometimes it's ok for a plan to work, sometimes it's ok for people to die. It seems like every plot point goes exactly the same way. They plan, they execute, they should succeed, BUT THEN something bad happens and someone is knocked unconscious or almost dies BUT THEN they are miraculously saved/fine because of healing magic. This routine gets boring, it's tiring and repetitive. Not every single event needs to be the most dramatic thing in the story!!! This is only made worse in this series because no one actually dies. When the reader knows that all of this is just for the sake of drama, it fades into filler and makes it a slog to read through. Early in the series this seemed to be minimal (I mean we even lost Julian) but as it went on, the author seems to lead into this formula even harder culminating in the final battle which was all sort of a waste of time.
Then we have the issue of time and space. The entire series also suffers from inconsistent travel distance over time. It takes them 2 weeks to march up to the tunnels to find Pippet, but then once the alarm is raised, everyone including the baddies is able to get back to the camp in a single day. In Dragonfire, somehow everyone is able to get to the breach of the city of one thousand stars like 2 days after they make the plan, even though they were not all able to travel by wind. All of this I find irritating, but not so frustrating that I don't enjoy it, however the effect it has on the timeline is where it starts to aggravate me. The first 6 books all take place in like 8 months time. They are on such a rushed timeline which didn't bother me until book 7 when this new battle seems to be taking the same amount of time.
I don't understand how these folks can go up against the most powerful augers and beat them in a span of like 4 months (since the first few books were concentrated on Salvator), but the battle with the southern kingdom lingers more than 6. The battle strategy and use of magic in book 7 is such decline in quality and strategy that you just know reading it, it was all for the plot. They make terrible decisions throughout the story that feel dumb even for this group. Everyone is constantly moving around, time and space get all mixed up and things are as close or as far as the plot needs them to be, and that is what makes me drop the ratings for this book more than the others.
The characters in this one also felt more unlikable. Their personalities seemed to be less distinct, there were several times I would be a couple pages into a new POV and not realize who it was even supposed to be for. What made these books so enjoyable for me was the found family and the relationships between all the characters. Their banter and their antics were so fun to read. This book, they seemed to lack the spark and they all spent so much time apart that there were no fun interactions. The only time they see each other is when someone is saving the day in the "but then" scenario or when they were fighting amongst themselves. It just was not fun to read. Then you have Aden and Mira, which is totally fine but we are told that the velenar bond is like so sacred, bla bla bla, but it only took 4 months to get over it? Again, time and space issues.
At the end of the day, the entire thing felt like exactly what it was, the author desperately trying to hold onto this world a little bit longer. I get that, I really do, but this book really needed another round of editing and cutting. It needed some stakes, it needed a death, or it needed a plan to succeed for once. I am glad I read the series but it was a bummer this is the last book we were given.
First, lets talk plot. The entire conflict begins and ends with this book but nothing actually happens. The character growth seems to have stalled out, no one dies, and it all just feels like filler. The author says herself she intended to finish after book 6 and it definitely shows. Clearly they just wanted the curse lifted from Cistine, but instead of doing something clever, like having them find another one of those singular flagons, or having her dad take the curse from her in sacrifice, the gods just give her another gift. It was so underwhelming because the book before literally ended with the same thing. I didn't care about anything that was happening, it all just felt like a really long side quest that I was not emotionally invested in at all. Getting through this one felt like such a slog compared to the other books in the series.
One of my biggest gripes that has haunted this entire series is what I call the "but then syndrome". Sometimes it's ok for a plan to work, sometimes it's ok for people to die. It seems like every plot point goes exactly the same way. They plan, they execute, they should succeed, BUT THEN something bad happens and someone is knocked unconscious or almost dies BUT THEN they are miraculously saved/fine because of healing magic. This routine gets boring, it's tiring and repetitive. Not every single event needs to be the most dramatic thing in the story!!! This is only made worse in this series because no one actually dies. When the reader knows that all of this is just for the sake of drama, it fades into filler and makes it a slog to read through. Early in the series this seemed to be minimal (I mean we even lost Julian) but as it went on, the author seems to lead into this formula even harder culminating in the final battle which was all sort of a waste of time.
Then we have the issue of time and space. The entire series also suffers from inconsistent travel distance over time. It takes them 2 weeks to march up to the tunnels to find Pippet, but then once the alarm is raised, everyone including the baddies is able to get back to the camp in a single day. In Dragonfire, somehow everyone is able to get to the breach of the city of one thousand stars like 2 days after they make the plan, even though they were not all able to travel by wind. All of this I find irritating, but not so frustrating that I don't enjoy it, however the effect it has on the timeline is where it starts to aggravate me. The first 6 books all take place in like 8 months time. They are on such a rushed timeline which didn't bother me until book 7 when this new battle seems to be taking the same amount of time.
I don't understand how these folks can go up against the most powerful augers and beat them in a span of like 4 months (since the first few books were concentrated on Salvator), but the battle with the southern kingdom lingers more than 6. The battle strategy and use of magic in book 7 is such decline in quality and strategy that you just know reading it, it was all for the plot. They make terrible decisions throughout the story that feel dumb even for this group. Everyone is constantly moving around, time and space get all mixed up and things are as close or as far as the plot needs them to be, and that is what makes me drop the ratings for this book more than the others.
The characters in this one also felt more unlikable. Their personalities seemed to be less distinct, there were several times I would be a couple pages into a new POV and not realize who it was even supposed to be for. What made these books so enjoyable for me was the found family and the relationships between all the characters. Their banter and their antics were so fun to read. This book, they seemed to lack the spark and they all spent so much time apart that there were no fun interactions. The only time they see each other is when someone is saving the day in the "but then" scenario or when they were fighting amongst themselves. It just was not fun to read. Then you have Aden and Mira, which is totally fine but we are told that the velenar bond is like so sacred, bla bla bla, but it only took 4 months to get over it? Again, time and space issues.
At the end of the day, the entire thing felt like exactly what it was, the author desperately trying to hold onto this world a little bit longer. I get that, I really do, but this book really needed another round of editing and cutting. It needed some stakes, it needed a death, or it needed a plan to succeed for once. I am glad I read the series but it was a bummer this is the last book we were given.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 2, 2025
Whew, it’s over- peace in the kingdoms (mostly) and the cabal still standing at the end. That twist of who was the “inside man”- still freaking over it.
I loved just about every single step along the way. Issues with the series in general? Julian was such a red flag- mostly due to being young, and his father’s attitude and child-rearing methods obviously left something to be desired. My problem is then Julian sort of became part of the team in memory when really he was always off doing his own thing. I get why he was included in the storyline and why his arc went the way it did, but it was a pretty convenient wrench around which so many things hinge.
Rion seems to pop up only when you need everything to go to crap. Opinionated bigot that he is I am surprised that Cistine’s father yanked him out of retirement. Longtime friendship only goes so far when trusting someone with your armies.
Ebonni, Iron’s wife is a total throwaway. Shame. It would have been nice to allow Cistine to get a peek at what her life married to Julian could have looked like, watching Rion and Julian around her.
The cabal I LOVE. Way to give Quill a shiny new toy after I cried from the loss of Faer. The connections between them all was fun, even during the hard times. Seriously though, where is Quill storing (and getting) all those cinnamon sticks from in the middle of two wars? Mal- thank you for his arc as well as Aden’s. I wish Aden’s love life would have ended differently, but I was satisfied enough over it.
Okay, is this comment is only because, unlike the average reader who has a waiting period between each book’s release, where I binged the series in a little over a week. HOW OFTEN IS CISTINE GOING TO DOUBT HERSELF AND NEED REASSURANCE VS. HOW OFTEN SHE THINKS SHE KNOWS WHAT IS RIGHT AND TACKLES ISSUES WITHOUT TELLING ANYONE WHAT SHE IS DOING???? Good grief, that princess is a yo-yo… or maybe a top, spinning wildly across the countryside.
Oh, and how many times is the cabal to survive getting ribs smashed, crashing onto their knees and noses broken only to do it all again a short while later? Honestly, these people are human not rugged and semi-immortal elves. They all need to invest in anti-inflammatories ASAP because the arthritis is going to be horrific as they get older. Ouch.
Despite the comments above, I really did love this series and adore the characters created to fit this worldscape. I think I only really had an issue in the final book, as we do get a lot of warriors and augers and rebels that pop up in the final book- at times I was confused and trying to remind myself of ‘who is that guy again?’
Letting the group splinter off made for an interesting ending because now we are left to wonder what will happen in the future… this could have easily been a major plot point left hanging, but I thought it went over surprisingly well.
I’ve picked up the last of the author’s catalog to read, though I do plan to take a little break first as my TBR checked out on Kindle Unlimited has titles that have really been waiting.
Great series- I highly recommend if you are into fantasy kingdoms with differing politics, found family and how anyone can make a difference. Lots of heart, plenty of laughs and some no spice romance.
I loved just about every single step along the way. Issues with the series in general? Julian was such a red flag- mostly due to being young, and his father’s attitude and child-rearing methods obviously left something to be desired. My problem is then Julian sort of became part of the team in memory when really he was always off doing his own thing. I get why he was included in the storyline and why his arc went the way it did, but it was a pretty convenient wrench around which so many things hinge.
Rion seems to pop up only when you need everything to go to crap. Opinionated bigot that he is I am surprised that Cistine’s father yanked him out of retirement. Longtime friendship only goes so far when trusting someone with your armies.
Ebonni, Iron’s wife is a total throwaway. Shame. It would have been nice to allow Cistine to get a peek at what her life married to Julian could have looked like, watching Rion and Julian around her.
The cabal I LOVE. Way to give Quill a shiny new toy after I cried from the loss of Faer. The connections between them all was fun, even during the hard times. Seriously though, where is Quill storing (and getting) all those cinnamon sticks from in the middle of two wars? Mal- thank you for his arc as well as Aden’s. I wish Aden’s love life would have ended differently, but I was satisfied enough over it.
Okay, is this comment is only because, unlike the average reader who has a waiting period between each book’s release, where I binged the series in a little over a week. HOW OFTEN IS CISTINE GOING TO DOUBT HERSELF AND NEED REASSURANCE VS. HOW OFTEN SHE THINKS SHE KNOWS WHAT IS RIGHT AND TACKLES ISSUES WITHOUT TELLING ANYONE WHAT SHE IS DOING???? Good grief, that princess is a yo-yo… or maybe a top, spinning wildly across the countryside.
Oh, and how many times is the cabal to survive getting ribs smashed, crashing onto their knees and noses broken only to do it all again a short while later? Honestly, these people are human not rugged and semi-immortal elves. They all need to invest in anti-inflammatories ASAP because the arthritis is going to be horrific as they get older. Ouch.
Despite the comments above, I really did love this series and adore the characters created to fit this worldscape. I think I only really had an issue in the final book, as we do get a lot of warriors and augers and rebels that pop up in the final book- at times I was confused and trying to remind myself of ‘who is that guy again?’
Letting the group splinter off made for an interesting ending because now we are left to wonder what will happen in the future… this could have easily been a major plot point left hanging, but I thought it went over surprisingly well.
I’ve picked up the last of the author’s catalog to read, though I do plan to take a little break first as my TBR checked out on Kindle Unlimited has titles that have really been waiting.
Great series- I highly recommend if you are into fantasy kingdoms with differing politics, found family and how anyone can make a difference. Lots of heart, plenty of laughs and some no spice romance.
July 2, 2024
I’ve decided to bring you along on my reading journey of The Starchaser Saga by @reneeduganwriting. These aren’t really going to be reviews, just my random thoughts while reading. I’ll do a series review once I’m finished. I’m going to try to make these as non spoilery as possible, but read at your own risk.
Wildheart Book 7 - Final book
- I’m not sure I’m ready for this.
- Cistine, my friend, you’re being selfish. This isn’t just affecting you.
- I do not like Sacha.
- You would think Cistine would have learned her lesson, yet she’s still acting without thinking or consulting others.
- Cistine is turning back into the selfish princess we first met. I’m starting to not like her again 😅🙃
- 🪶 🐉 🥹
- Cistine is definitely not ready to lead anyone.
- I KNEW IT!
- "Ah, violence and bare tolerance. My favorite traits in a woman."
- I didn’t see that coming.
- Finally she’s realizing what a ding dong she’s been.
- 😡 👑 is completely loony tunes.
- Uh oh
- A&M ❤️
- Ummm your dad is dying. Now is not the time 😅
- Never mind. Carry on.
- "This is what it looks like, Logandir. This is what we built. Everything we fought for."
That was a wild ride! I loved (almost) every minute of it. This series is absolutely fantastic!
Wildheart Book 7 - Final book
- I’m not sure I’m ready for this.
- Cistine, my friend, you’re being selfish. This isn’t just affecting you.
- I do not like Sacha.
- You would think Cistine would have learned her lesson, yet she’s still acting without thinking or consulting others.
- Cistine is turning back into the selfish princess we first met. I’m starting to not like her again 😅🙃
- 🪶 🐉 🥹
- Cistine is definitely not ready to lead anyone.
- I KNEW IT!
- "Ah, violence and bare tolerance. My favorite traits in a woman."
- I didn’t see that coming.
- Finally she’s realizing what a ding dong she’s been.
- 😡 👑 is completely loony tunes.
- Uh oh
- A&M ❤️
- Ummm your dad is dying. Now is not the time 😅
- Never mind. Carry on.
- "This is what it looks like, Logandir. This is what we built. Everything we fought for."
That was a wild ride! I loved (almost) every minute of it. This series is absolutely fantastic!
August 31, 2022
📚ARC REVIEW📚
4
I’ve had a hard time collecting my thoughts in regards to this book.
When I first started the Starchaser Saga only four books were out, and I read them all in the space of a day and a half. I couldn’t get enough. I suffered a major book hangover and instantly fell in love with these stories and characters. So it’s very bitter sweet that this series has come to an end. But I really struggled with this one, which breaks my heart. I feel like I’m betraying the Cabal by saying that.
I really struggled to like Cisitine in this book. I get that she’s going through some stuff but man did I want to smack her, A LOT.. I felt bad for Thorne. Again, I get it, lots of struggles. But, unlike the other books, I had no issue setting this book down and walking away.
While the story was okay and I had a major question answered, I still felt like there were a lot of open ends. Wildheart didn’t feel finished. I have been left wanting more. And not in the “I don’t want this to end” kind of way.
But don’t let that fool you. I did enjoy going back to this world and spending time with these characters. Renee does a wonderful job weaving all the characters' stories together and I am so glad that I came across this series and it will forever live with me.
4
I’ve had a hard time collecting my thoughts in regards to this book.
When I first started the Starchaser Saga only four books were out, and I read them all in the space of a day and a half. I couldn’t get enough. I suffered a major book hangover and instantly fell in love with these stories and characters. So it’s very bitter sweet that this series has come to an end. But I really struggled with this one, which breaks my heart. I feel like I’m betraying the Cabal by saying that.
I really struggled to like Cisitine in this book. I get that she’s going through some stuff but man did I want to smack her, A LOT.. I felt bad for Thorne. Again, I get it, lots of struggles. But, unlike the other books, I had no issue setting this book down and walking away.
While the story was okay and I had a major question answered, I still felt like there were a lot of open ends. Wildheart didn’t feel finished. I have been left wanting more. And not in the “I don’t want this to end” kind of way.
But don’t let that fool you. I did enjoy going back to this world and spending time with these characters. Renee does a wonderful job weaving all the characters' stories together and I am so glad that I came across this series and it will forever live with me.
September 20, 2024
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 (3.5)
Steam Level: 🔥🔥 (closed door)
It's time to restore peace to all the kingdoms. But first, the cabal must face one last foe.
I wanted to give this a solid 4 stars, but in the end there were a few things that kept me from giving it that extra half star. Honestly, I think the series could have ended with the last book except for one plot point. I wasn't really invested in the new threat or all the side journeys the characters went on, and the ending went on so much longer than necessary after the enemy was defeated. So what did I like? Well, the new romances had my full attention. I have been waiting for a certain character to get a love story, and I was not disappointed. I also liked the other romance that was hinted at in the second half. I would have loved to see more of their story. And I just loved seeing the cabal continue to fight for what's right and defend each other. Those are honestly the biggest selling points of the entire series- the found family and romances. This final book definitely delivered on those, but just lost my attention a bit in a few parts. I'd still highly recommend this to fantasy lovers looking for something new!
Steam Level: 🔥🔥 (closed door)
It's time to restore peace to all the kingdoms. But first, the cabal must face one last foe.
I wanted to give this a solid 4 stars, but in the end there were a few things that kept me from giving it that extra half star. Honestly, I think the series could have ended with the last book except for one plot point. I wasn't really invested in the new threat or all the side journeys the characters went on, and the ending went on so much longer than necessary after the enemy was defeated. So what did I like? Well, the new romances had my full attention. I have been waiting for a certain character to get a love story, and I was not disappointed. I also liked the other romance that was hinted at in the second half. I would have loved to see more of their story. And I just loved seeing the cabal continue to fight for what's right and defend each other. Those are honestly the biggest selling points of the entire series- the found family and romances. This final book definitely delivered on those, but just lost my attention a bit in a few parts. I'd still highly recommend this to fantasy lovers looking for something new!
December 26, 2024
Love it all!
I bought the first book in October this year and took it on a week long vacation with me. Once I started, I could NOT STOP. I CONSUMED the first book that week and started on the second before I even got on the plane home. I just finished this last book and I already want more.
The relationships that develope between the characters are so vivid, and will leave you rooting for them! The conflicts have satisfying conclusions without being drawn out, the love interests are believable and realistic. Cistine and the Cabal will forever have a loving place on my shelf! Thank you for this awesome adventure
I bought the first book in October this year and took it on a week long vacation with me. Once I started, I could NOT STOP. I CONSUMED the first book that week and started on the second before I even got on the plane home. I just finished this last book and I already want more.
The relationships that develope between the characters are so vivid, and will leave you rooting for them! The conflicts have satisfying conclusions without being drawn out, the love interests are believable and realistic. Cistine and the Cabal will forever have a loving place on my shelf! Thank you for this awesome adventure
February 9, 2023
This was such an amazing conclusion omg. Emotions were had for sure and I maybe cried a little. It was so good to see the cabal again but also sad that it's for the last time. After the uncertain ending to book 6, I wondered how the author would handle pulling the series a little further now that the bloodwights are dealt with. But this last book is so full of intrigue and action, it kept me hooked, and the ending was satisfying and so well deserved. I loved the cabal's journey from beginning to end and while I will miss them, I look forward to seeing what Dugan writes next.
February 14, 2025
This book was the perfect conclusion for this series! It left me with everything I needed to wrap up this wonderful story that stole my heart. It took its time with the ending, nothing was rushed or pushed and it gave the reader enough time to come to terms with the end. This series holds a special place in my heart and I wish I could read stories about the cabal forever. The author brought everything to a close in a beautiful and hopeful way that left me content.
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