Step into the shadowy streets of Nocturne City, where werewolves, witches, and black magicians roam under the moonlight, and a tough-as-nails werewolf cop keeps the chaos in check! Caitlin Kittredge’s Nocturne City series is a pulse-pounding blend of urban fantasy, detective noir, and just a hint of paranormal romance. Centered on Luna Wilder, a lone werewolf navigating a gritty city teeming with supernatural intrigue, this five-book saga delivers dark thrills and complex characters that hook readers from the first page.
With its intoxicating mix of mystery, supernatural politics, and Luna’s fierce independence, Nocturne City stands out as a gem in the urban fantasy genre. Whether you’re a fan of gritty crime dramas or enchanted by paranormal worlds, this series offers a wild ride through a city where danger lurks at every corner.
How Nocturne City Began
Caitlin Kittredge, an American author with a passion for dark fantasy and noir, launched the Nocturne City series in 2008 with her debut novel, Night Life. Inspired by pulp novels, film noir, and authors like Raymond Chandler and H.P. Lovecraft, Kittredge crafted a world where supernatural beings coexist uneasily with humans. Her love for comic books and punk rock infused the series with a gritty, rebellious vibe. Kittredge, who began writing at age 13, channeled her fascination with the supernatural—sparked by a personal eerie encounter—into Luna’s adventures, creating a fresh take on urban fantasy that feels both familiar and innovative.
The Heart of Nocturne City
The series kicks off with Night Life, where Luna Wilder, an Insoli (packless) werewolf and homicide detective, investigates ritualistic murders tied to a legendary demon. Her prime suspect, Dmitri Sandovsky, a charismatic alpha werewolf, sparks both tension and attraction, setting the stage for a thrilling partnership. In Pure Blood, Luna tackles a serial killer leaving cryptic messages, while navigating her complicated feelings for Dmitri, now demon-bitten and shunned by his pack. Second Skin introduces wendigo shapeshifters and deepens the supernatural lore, while Witch Craft sees Luna leading a supernatural crime squad against a fiery, magical threat.
Nocturne City’s strength lies in its vivid setting—a sprawling, noir-inspired metropolis where prejudice against supernaturals festers, and magical gang wars erupt. Themes of identity, independence, and loyalty weave through Luna’s journey as she battles both external threats and her own instincts. Kittredge’s sharp dialogue, fast-paced action, and layered worldbuilding create a dark, seductive atmosphere, though some fans note the series’ early books lean heavily on genre tropes. Still, Luna’s sarcastic wit and resilience make her a standout heroine in a crowded field.
Why Nocturne City Resonates
Though not as widely celebrated as some urban fantasy giants, Nocturne City carved a niche for fans craving gritty, character-driven stories. Its blend of police procedural and paranormal elements appeals to readers of Patricia Briggs’ Mercy Thompson series or Karen Chance’s Cassandra Palmer books. Luna’s struggles as an outsider resonate with those who root for underdogs, and the series’ exploration of supernatural politics feels timeless. While some critics argue it hasn’t aged as well in a saturated genre, its loyal fanbase cherishes its raw energy and atmospheric storytelling, keeping Nocturne City a cult favorite.
- Publication Years: 2008–2010
- Number of Books: 5
- Genres: Urban Fantasy, Paranormal Romance, Detective Noir
Ready to prowl the streets with Luna Wilder? Grab Night Life and dive into Nocturne City’s thrilling, shadowy world today!