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The Nightfall #1
Nightfall in the Forest of Betrayal
The Nightfall Series is an epic Fantasy tale featuring multiple POVs. Content Warning: mild violence, coarse language, and romance (MF Book 1, MF & MM Book 2 onwards).
Good versus Evil... Or not?
Surrounded by ancient forest, the Kingdom of Aneirin is bound by magic and deception. Can shattering the lies and betrayals of the past make a difference to the looming threat of a brutal war?
A mysterious magic user, haunted by a violent past, must confront the darkness within while navigating the treacherous paths of revenge and betrayal.
A young Elf embarks on a perilous journey, with a complicated Dragon as her only companion. As the line between good and evil blurs, she finds herself questioning everything she thought was true.
A man of dubious morals searches for power with such ruthlessness that not even the innocent stand in his way.
A seemingly innocent prince falling for the determined Elf set to spill his blood… What could go wrong?
Dive into The Nightfall Series today, a gripping tale of magic, secrets, lies and love.
'There was no time to close her eyes.
After a single, aching heartbeat, a great shape appeared, looming below. It was an impossible shape, woven out of shifting light, shimmering, polished scales, and wickedly spread blades reaching out towards her.
There was a jolt.
There was pain.
Then there was nothing.'
Praise for Nightfall in the Forest of Betrayal after taking a sneak peek...
'The voice and the writing are awesome' - Susan Barnes Editing
'Expertly hooking' - Whitney's Book Works
Good versus Evil... Or not?
Surrounded by ancient forest, the Kingdom of Aneirin is bound by magic and deception. Can shattering the lies and betrayals of the past make a difference to the looming threat of a brutal war?
A mysterious magic user, haunted by a violent past, must confront the darkness within while navigating the treacherous paths of revenge and betrayal.
A young Elf embarks on a perilous journey, with a complicated Dragon as her only companion. As the line between good and evil blurs, she finds herself questioning everything she thought was true.
A man of dubious morals searches for power with such ruthlessness that not even the innocent stand in his way.
A seemingly innocent prince falling for the determined Elf set to spill his blood… What could go wrong?
Dive into The Nightfall Series today, a gripping tale of magic, secrets, lies and love.
'There was no time to close her eyes.
After a single, aching heartbeat, a great shape appeared, looming below. It was an impossible shape, woven out of shifting light, shimmering, polished scales, and wickedly spread blades reaching out towards her.
There was a jolt.
There was pain.
Then there was nothing.'
Praise for Nightfall in the Forest of Betrayal after taking a sneak peek...
'The voice and the writing are awesome' - Susan Barnes Editing
'Expertly hooking' - Whitney's Book Works
- GenresFantasy
395 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 27, 2024
6 people are currently reading
1526 people want to read
About the author
Loren Tuxford
3 books19 followersLoren Tuxford is the author of The Nightfall Series, an epic fantasy tale of magic, secrets, lies & love. She enjoys writing about conflicted heroes, seductive villains and complicated dragons.
After making her own books as a small child, Loren decided it was time to share her stories with the world, much to the delight of her dark sense of humor.
When Loren isn’t transcribing the conversations taking place in her imagination, she can be found stargazing, birdwatching, drinking strong coffee, and wandering around overgrown cemeteries. With a background in Print & Graphic Design, Loren is also a proud staff member at Book Fair Australia, a literary festival that celebrates stories of all genres.
After making her own books as a small child, Loren decided it was time to share her stories with the world, much to the delight of her dark sense of humor.
When Loren isn’t transcribing the conversations taking place in her imagination, she can be found stargazing, birdwatching, drinking strong coffee, and wandering around overgrown cemeteries. With a background in Print & Graphic Design, Loren is also a proud staff member at Book Fair Australia, a literary festival that celebrates stories of all genres.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
January 21, 2024
A great start to a new fantasy series. I have more questions after finishing the first book and I'm honestly confused about who is good and who is evil. I like that the reader is kept guessing throughout the book. It made for a great page turner, and this leaves you with wanting to find out what happens next. I will definitely be reading the next book.
January 8, 2024
Betrayal and intrigue
The story weaves complex characters with magic and fantasy. And as a romance lover, I adore romance as a complication to the goals and best laid plans of the characters.
- His other hand moved around her waist, pulling her close. It felt like holding the sun.
Aurelia.
The torch flickered again.
My light in the dark. -
Amazing. I highly recommend.
I received an ARC and also purchased the book!
The story weaves complex characters with magic and fantasy. And as a romance lover, I adore romance as a complication to the goals and best laid plans of the characters.
- His other hand moved around her waist, pulling her close. It felt like holding the sun.
Aurelia.
The torch flickered again.
My light in the dark. -
Amazing. I highly recommend.
I received an ARC and also purchased the book!
Read
July 23, 2025Dear Readers,
I'm so thrilled to have The Nightfall Series in your hands. Expect old-school twisty multi-POV Epic Fantasy, filled with conflicted heroes, seductive villains, emotional stakes and characters who defy easy labels.
Start here with Book One: Nightfall in the Forest of Betrayal. In a kingdom cloaked in magic and secrets, an Elf must spill a prince’s blood to break a curse. But nothing is ever as it seems — especially in the forest, where betrayal grows like roots and the line between good and evil is never clear.
If you love dark humour, slow-burning secrets, and morally grey characters who unravel the world around them, you’re in for a page-turning journey that was so much fun (and an unforgettable challenge) to write.
Please note: Book One features coarse language, mild violence and on-page romance (MF, later books MF and MM).
The Nightfall Series is for lovers of Katharine Kerr, Guy Gavriel Kay, Janny Wurts and Margaret Weis, to name just a few.
Thank you for your support and I look forward to sharing this journey with you all.
💛 Loren
I'm so thrilled to have The Nightfall Series in your hands. Expect old-school twisty multi-POV Epic Fantasy, filled with conflicted heroes, seductive villains, emotional stakes and characters who defy easy labels.
Start here with Book One: Nightfall in the Forest of Betrayal. In a kingdom cloaked in magic and secrets, an Elf must spill a prince’s blood to break a curse. But nothing is ever as it seems — especially in the forest, where betrayal grows like roots and the line between good and evil is never clear.
If you love dark humour, slow-burning secrets, and morally grey characters who unravel the world around them, you’re in for a page-turning journey that was so much fun (and an unforgettable challenge) to write.
Please note: Book One features coarse language, mild violence and on-page romance (MF, later books MF and MM).
The Nightfall Series is for lovers of Katharine Kerr, Guy Gavriel Kay, Janny Wurts and Margaret Weis, to name just a few.
Thank you for your support and I look forward to sharing this journey with you all.
💛 Loren
Read
July 29, 2024The novel combines complicated people with magic and imagination. And, as a romance fan, I appreciate romance as a complicating factor in the characters' aspirations and best-laid plans.
March 18, 2024
I don’t think I have ever read a true epic fantasy novel before, something about being willing to suspend disbelief and growing up with an older brother who spent hours playing Dungeons & Dragons put me off this genre.
Clearly, I have been missing out because by page 99 of this book, I had been laughing, frowning, confused, curious and disgusted, and stayed up way too late. There hadn’t been tears yet, but it was only the beginning.
There are plenty of twists and turns, a little steam, and a few characters whom I love on one page and hate by the next.
By the time I had finished the last page, I was torn between wanting to throw the book against the wall, or immediately going back to the first page to read it all over again.
I have so many questions and the riveting cliff-hanger at the end has made me an official convert to the genre and this series.
Loren Tuxford, your mind is a wondrous and magical thing and I’m excited to read the second instalment.
Clearly, I have been missing out because by page 99 of this book, I had been laughing, frowning, confused, curious and disgusted, and stayed up way too late. There hadn’t been tears yet, but it was only the beginning.
There are plenty of twists and turns, a little steam, and a few characters whom I love on one page and hate by the next.
By the time I had finished the last page, I was torn between wanting to throw the book against the wall, or immediately going back to the first page to read it all over again.
I have so many questions and the riveting cliff-hanger at the end has made me an official convert to the genre and this series.
Loren Tuxford, your mind is a wondrous and magical thing and I’m excited to read the second instalment.
June 9, 2025
Loren Tuxford delivers a truly riveting read, captivating from beginning to end with its constant twists and turns. I found myself quickly immersed in the richly created world, captivated by the provocative language and distinctive style.
The characters of Aurelia and Rhydian are commendably believable and deep, ensuring constant engagement with their journeys across the vastly different realms of Aneirin and Lolihud. I'm eagerly anticipating the next installment, with a quiet hope that the narrative will transport us to the mysterious City of Seers in the north.
This is a phenomenal start to the series, and one I thoroughly recommend.
The characters of Aurelia and Rhydian are commendably believable and deep, ensuring constant engagement with their journeys across the vastly different realms of Aneirin and Lolihud. I'm eagerly anticipating the next installment, with a quiet hope that the narrative will transport us to the mysterious City of Seers in the north.
This is a phenomenal start to the series, and one I thoroughly recommend.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 25, 2024
I Love It...
Let's see... what do we get.
Great storytelling, not your standard elves, scheming dragons, characters to love and hate, crystal magic, a strange woman called Jessica and then throw in some very witty dialogue.
What's not to like...
Let's see... what do we get.
Great storytelling, not your standard elves, scheming dragons, characters to love and hate, crystal magic, a strange woman called Jessica and then throw in some very witty dialogue.
What's not to like...
February 29, 2024
The author creates complex characters, vivid descriptions and keeps the reader guessing as to who is good and who is evil/bad. Nightfall in the Forest of Betrayal has all the elements of a great fantasy novel. I can't wait to read what happens in book two.
August 6, 2024
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4 stars)
Thank you for the giveaway read!
Loren Tuxford’s Nightfall in the Forest of Betrayal is a captivating fantasy novel that skillfully blends intrigue, magic, and complex characters within a richly imagined world. This gripping tale delivers a compelling narrative with a few standout elements that make it a noteworthy read.
The story is set in a lush, enchanting forest where betrayal and dark forces threaten the fragile peace of its inhabitants. Tuxford excels in world-building, creating a vivid and immersive setting that draws readers into the heart of the forest’s mysteries. The intricate details and atmospheric descriptions contribute to a setting that feels both magical and ominous, enhancing the overall reading experience.
Character development is one of the book’s strong points. The protagonists are well-rounded and face significant personal and external challenges that drive the story forward. Their growth throughout the novel is engaging, and Tuxford’s portrayal of their struggles and relationships adds emotional depth to the narrative. The interactions between characters are nuanced and contribute to a sense of realism in a fantastical context.
The plot is well-paced, with a mix of suspense, action, and moments of introspection. Tuxford effectively balances these elements, maintaining a steady rhythm that keeps readers invested in the unfolding drama. The twists and turns in the story are both surprising and well-executed, adding layers of complexity to the central conflict.
However, some parts of the story may feel slightly predictable to seasoned fantasy readers. While the novel has many original and intriguing aspects, certain plot developments might not offer the level of novelty expected by those familiar with the genre. Nonetheless, this does not detract significantly from the overall enjoyment of the book.
Overall, Nightfall in the Forest of Betrayal is a well-crafted fantasy novel that combines an enchanting setting, strong character development, and an engaging plot. Loren Tuxford’s skillful storytelling and immersive world-building make it a highly enjoyable read. With its minor predictability aside, it earns a solid 4-star rating and is recommended for fans of fantasy looking for a captivating new adventure.
Thank you for the giveaway read!
Loren Tuxford’s Nightfall in the Forest of Betrayal is a captivating fantasy novel that skillfully blends intrigue, magic, and complex characters within a richly imagined world. This gripping tale delivers a compelling narrative with a few standout elements that make it a noteworthy read.
The story is set in a lush, enchanting forest where betrayal and dark forces threaten the fragile peace of its inhabitants. Tuxford excels in world-building, creating a vivid and immersive setting that draws readers into the heart of the forest’s mysteries. The intricate details and atmospheric descriptions contribute to a setting that feels both magical and ominous, enhancing the overall reading experience.
Character development is one of the book’s strong points. The protagonists are well-rounded and face significant personal and external challenges that drive the story forward. Their growth throughout the novel is engaging, and Tuxford’s portrayal of their struggles and relationships adds emotional depth to the narrative. The interactions between characters are nuanced and contribute to a sense of realism in a fantastical context.
The plot is well-paced, with a mix of suspense, action, and moments of introspection. Tuxford effectively balances these elements, maintaining a steady rhythm that keeps readers invested in the unfolding drama. The twists and turns in the story are both surprising and well-executed, adding layers of complexity to the central conflict.
However, some parts of the story may feel slightly predictable to seasoned fantasy readers. While the novel has many original and intriguing aspects, certain plot developments might not offer the level of novelty expected by those familiar with the genre. Nonetheless, this does not detract significantly from the overall enjoyment of the book.
Overall, Nightfall in the Forest of Betrayal is a well-crafted fantasy novel that combines an enchanting setting, strong character development, and an engaging plot. Loren Tuxford’s skillful storytelling and immersive world-building make it a highly enjoyable read. With its minor predictability aside, it earns a solid 4-star rating and is recommended for fans of fantasy looking for a captivating new adventure.
July 12, 2024
What a stunning (like STUNNING) debut novel! I love the history, the world and the characters that have been developed in this book. I loved the intrigue of not quite knowing who was good and who was evil - it felt so much more realistic, because characters all carried aspects of both. The style of writing is also just beautiful! So eloquent. I've never read anything by an Australian author quite like this. Honestly, can't believe this hasn't been picked up by a major publishing house. Am DEFINITELY invested in this series. 🐉🦉🌲🏰
December 28, 2024
This was a very unique read. It took me a little bit to actually get into it, but once I breeched that hump it was so so worth it. The story building was awesome, and the characters were all top notch and likeable. All in all i really enjoyed this.
January 15, 2026
2.75 ⭐️ This book had so much potential! I feel like there were so many aspects of the book that I loved but as a whole I just feel like I didn’t care about anything? I want to give it another go down the track.
January 25, 2024
I found this story to be a Brilliant Read.
I like the characters, Elves, Dragons and Humans all for different reasons. Some I love, some are amusing and some I love to hate so it's hard to say who is my favorite, but I think Cas and Aurelia are up there. The story, environment and characters are richly described so you almost feel like you know them personally.
The story is captivating and takes you along with it.
The writer's tongue-in-cheek sense of humor caught me by surprise and made me laugh out loud at times.
Can't wait for the next book. I'm hooked.
I like the characters, Elves, Dragons and Humans all for different reasons. Some I love, some are amusing and some I love to hate so it's hard to say who is my favorite, but I think Cas and Aurelia are up there. The story, environment and characters are richly described so you almost feel like you know them personally.
The story is captivating and takes you along with it.
The writer's tongue-in-cheek sense of humor caught me by surprise and made me laugh out loud at times.
Can't wait for the next book. I'm hooked.
January 26, 2024
This is not your usual Elves, Dragons and humans story. Elves are not necessarily good, Dragons of all sorts, even a kind of cowardly dragon and a mixed bag of humans, nothing is what it seems to be. Nothing is black and white in this story there are many layers to it and I absolutely loved it. It has everything humour, love, sex, death, sadness and much, much more. Characters that you will get really invested in like my favourite Cas gorgeous, charismatic and attractive in an evil, deadly way but still loveable and funny in a twisted way. Can’t wait for book two so much more to unravel. Karen
February 1, 2024
Very exciting story about an adventure filled with magic, wizards and dragons.
Not a childrens book though!
I loved part 2 as well.
Not a childrens book though!
I loved part 2 as well.
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews