Oblivion Heart

Darkling Mage #4

by Nazri Noor

A massacre, a manuscript, and a demonic midnight bargain.

Dustin Graves goes on a rare night out with the boys from the Boneyard, but things go horribly wrong. Over a hundred revelers drop dead at a pop diva’s concert, bleeding from their eyes and their ears. Miraculously, Dustin and his undead associates survive.

But the troubles have just begun. Soon Dust is dealing with a bloodthirsty imp, a grizzled Scion, and a strange man covered in even stranger tattoos. Then Mammon, the demon prince of greed, comes knocking, eager to collect on Dustin’s end of the bargain…

If you like snarky heroes, snappy dialogue, and a bit of grit and gore, you'll love the fourth book in Nazri Noor's series of urban fantasy novels. Explore the Darkling Mage universe and discover Oblivion Heart today.

Genres: Fantasy, Urban Fantasy, Paranormal, Audiobook, LGBT, Magic, Supernatural

288 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 18, 2018

About the author

Hi, I'm Nazri, a Filipino-Malaysian author based in California. I’m trilingual, but I really only write in English. I can also speak just enough Sindarin and Valyrian to impress absolutely no one. My urban fantasy novels focus on realistic heroes who use wits, style, and their wildly unpredictable magic to (try) and save the day. Think sass and class, while kicking ass.

My influences come from horror and fantasy: HP Lovecraft, Anne Rice, George R.R. Martin, Chuck Palahniuk, Terry Pratchett, and Neil Gaiman. Growing up I was shaped by the Blood Sword, Fighting Fantasy, Lone Wolf, and Grey Star game book universes. I'm also inspired by video games, specifically the Castlevania, Final Fantasy, and Persona series.

TL;DR: I'm a huge nerd. And yes, that's my real hair. I try to donate it to the American Cancer Society as often as I can. Also, have you heard? You can get a free book at www.NazriNoor.com.

Reviews

[Carole (Carole's Random Life) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This review can also be found at Carole's Random Life in Books.

I really enjoyed this book! I have really had a good time with this series and have been looking forward to the release of each new audiobook. This book was just as entertaining as the previous installments in this series. I am so glad that I discovered this series.

Dustin's life is never boring. He goes along with his friends to a pop star's concert where things go very wrong and almost all of the concert-goers end up dead. Dustin also has a little deal with a demon to fulfill and must find a very special book that can't seem to stay in one place. There was no shortage of excitement in this story and I really enjoyed watching Dustin deal with everything thrown at him. There were some moments where I wasn't sure how things would work out but Dustin was able to find a solution even if it required a bit of luck.

I am really enjoying the characters in this series. Dustin is funny, smart, and good under pressure. He has a solid group of friends that always seem to have his back. I enjoyed getting to know a few characters a bit better in this installment and was thrilled to spend some more time with Vanitas, Dustin's sword with a very big personality.

Luke Daniels is one of my favorite narrators and I think he does an amazing job with this series. He really is able to bring Dustin to life, including his sense of humor. He handles all of the character voices very well and is able to make the story feel even more exciting. I think that his narration added to my overall enjoyment of this story.

I would recommend this series to others. This is the fourth book in the Darkling Mage series which I recommend reading in order. I found this book to be highly entertaining and look forward to reading more of Dustin's adventures very soon!

I received a review copy of this audiobook from the author.

Initial Thoughts
I enjoyed this book! This has been such a fun series and this book was no exception. The story drew me in from the beginning and held my attention until the very end. I enjoyed seeing the regular group of characters work to set things right and was very happy to see Vanitas once again. Luke Daniels did an amazing job with the narration.

[Kazza · Rating 4 out of 5]

I laughed at the beginning of this book - Sterling in love with a bubblegum popstar. Sterling the vampire who dresses in dark and leather and is edgy and snarky. But hey, Sterling will not be stereotyped. Mind you, the night turns to the bloody side, with humans dying all around them when Mona hits some... interesting notes while a silver light causes big issues. The Lorica is called, and Sterling, Asher and Dustin find themselves in situation-normal. Chaos.

This book started strong, then took its foot of the pedal for a while, but then the writing stepped back up again, building and bringing it home hard.

I missed Sterling in this instalment, he came in and out of the story, sure, but his usual back and forth banter with Dustin was mostly MIA. I guess his fragile side had to have a platform because these characters, while magic or paranormal, are not unbelievably OTT in their actions or their feelings for what they do and who they do it with. They're in the trenches together.

There was a new character fleetingly but importantly introduced, Sam, and I'd like to think that somehow, someway he can be reintroduced. Given he's theoretically kind of the antithesis of the Boneyard crew I'm not sure, but here's hoping. The nippy, fry-stealing little imp Scrimshaw is also welcome back.

Vanitas had good page time and I liked that his remodelling has made him more gleeful of the kill. Hmm, what demonic tinkering is this?

Mammon, Prince of Greed, collects on a debt, making Dustin work hard for the fulfilment of a contract - demon contracts being painful and detailed.

Shout out to the Esthers. Just something that made me grin.

[Connie · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's been a while since an Urban fantasy series has had me hooked. I've become very attached to Dustin and the family at the Boneyard. The stories are intense and action packed,
the character and world building is getting better with each book. Got five more books to read in this series and I'm looking forward to them all.

[Myriam · Rating 5 out of 5]

I know I say this every time but this was an amazing book, very intense, full of action and I love love love Dustin Graves.
This time, the trouble strikes very close to home, some alliances are tested, new ones created, and Dustin is growing up, becoming stronger and more serious. A very special person is back and we get to know them so much better. This was my favourite part of the story, I cannot deny it.
I am still not sure how I feel about a more capable and more serious all grown up Dustin, but I guess it was inevitable. He was so adorable being saved all the time and escaping trouble by pure luck, that I am still getting used to him being fully capable of taking care of himself.
Sterling is still amazingly cool, and Asher is just as adorable as Dustin was, only a lot more in touch with his powers. Carver becomes a little less of a mystery and Bastion has a family! It did seem at times that all the Lorica people were hatched from eggs and had no relatives whatsoever. 
The action in this book was so nerve wrecking, probably due to all the very personal stuff that was happening with the characters, I had to pause reading several times! This was an amazing book, as expected. This author never disappoints and I can't wait to read more. Fortunately, the next book is almost here. 
The books are best read in order. Reading order is Penumbra (Darkling Mage Book 0), Shadow Magic (Darkling Mage Book 1), Dark Harvest (Darkling Mage Book 2), Grave Intentions (Darkling Mage Book 3), Oblivion Heart (Darkling Mage Book 4), Midnight's Son (Darkling Mage Book 5) and Last Rites (Darkling Mage Book 6).

[Alex (HEABookNerd) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Things are really getting serious for Dustin in OBLIVION HEART and I can tell the series is ramping up to something big. With more control over his powers Dustin is becoming a force to be reckoned with and he's a lot more confident in his abilities.

Dustin's "voice" makes this series so enjoyable to read and I love him as our lead. He's sarcastic, a little goofy, and he can roll with the punches (literally and figuratively) with an easy going demeanor. He might have started the series as unsure and lacking purpose but he's quickly developed friendships that become like family. And I think it's becoming clear how important having those allies will be in the coming fight.

As for the side characters, Sterling has really grown on me and I love how protective he is of his friends while also trying to act like he doesn't care. He's cocky and brash but it somehow works. I've also enjoyed seeing more of Herald and how he and Dustin have become great friends.

[Mary Enck · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just as the novels have been, I can see this becoming a fascinating series that would be a favorite on HBO television. It's a unique and well-told story of great challenges for the beloved wisecracking characters. I find myself laughing out loud at the dialogue that is at times so realistic. Yes, this is really how people talk today. Words in a lively vernacular fit in this story and is part of what makes it all the more real.

There are enough reviews that divulge some of the events and tell you just what happens in the storyline. I see no reason to repeat those revelations but rather, I like to address why I have enjoyed the writing of someone who has chosen to share long hours of his time to gift readers with his skill and talent to spin a worthy tale for us.

Oblivion Heart was some of the best reading thus far for me. Every novel I have read as our hero Dustin continues to grow his magical prowess has become more exciting. Author, Nazri Noor is a master at introducing new characters to blend with established players on the stage of his imagination.

There were answers to questions I have held since the last reading of the prior novels. There is a certain timing that goes with this great storytelling ability that Mr. Noor shares with his fans. When you read his writings you certainly should feel motivated to speak up and say how great you think they are as you enjoy reading his tales that move so fast. From the good-humored banter to the fearsome battle scenes, you will most assuredly have a good time with these guys.

I love the last sentence on the last page of Oblivion Heart. Our hero says, "My name is Dustin Graves. And my story isn't over." Thank goodness. I am so eager to enjoy more of these magical journeys and surprising turn of events that play for our entertainment.

[Buttercupp77 · Rating 5 out of 5]

As always, trouble finds Dust in the least likely of places - then it gets worse when he opens his smart mouth! The appeal of this series for me is the sarcasm of the protagonist and his motley crew. I find that I appreciate the series more and more as it progresses, as progressive installments in the series get stronger.

The main strengths, which are very much evident in Book 4, are:
- the pacing. The story is full of action, and manages to convey necessary information without stopping the forward momentum of the plot.
- the character development/cameos. While there are fewer cameos in this installment that I would have liked, we are introduced to some new characters, who I fervently hope will settle in and become a bigger part of Dust's gang!
- the overarching plot. There most definitely is something awful brewing. Each installment lays groundwork that, I think, will play a key role when the big build-up pays off.

There were a couple of story arcs that I missed seeing - a major character did not make an appearance (which I believe was the absolute correct decision lest this series turn into something disappointing), and a minor character (to whom we are introduced in this installment) disappears and doesn't return - yet. (I hope we'll see more that one in the future - for me, this one stole the show and I'll be crushed if that's all we get!)

All in all, this is an excellent entry in the canon and I'm eager to see where Dust's penchant for trouble will strike again!

I received an ARC from the author.

[Mandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dustin Graves is on a rare night out but everything goes wrong when over 100 people drop dead at the pop diva's concert they are attending. The people who died started bleeding from their eyes and ears but it becomes apparent that it does not affect those who are not completely human so Dustin and his companions survive. Soon Dustin has to cope with a bloodthirsty imp, grizzled scion and a strange man with many strange tattoos. Then Mammon (the demon prince of greed) calls in the favour from Dustin.

This was a great story featuring lots of different sorts of supernatural being and the darkling mage Dustin coping with move evil in the world. I loved the story in this book and the way it developed in order to push Dustin to use more of his powers in an inventive way as he battled evil from n unexpected source. Plenty of twists and turns this story had me hooked all the way through so that I was both heartened when the story ended in a good result but also quite sad that I had reached the end of the book. Well written I'm definitely looking forward to the next book in the series.

[Colin Rowlands · Rating 5 out of 5]

While you will obviously lose something by not knowing the characters beforehand, this book does also work on it's own and not simply as part of a larger series, so people should be put off by it being book four, although I would recommend checking out the earlier books in the series.

Things just can't go smoothly for the main character, even a simple night out can take a drastic change for the worse for Dustin and his friends and once again set him on a path of more enemies that are far more powerful than him. This time round he has a new adversary at the Lorica to deal with, a demonic deal to be paid off and an enemy that seems determined to kill off all non-magical humans, so it is a good job a friend has returned to help him.

The performance of the narrator is a typically strong one with his usual array of voices helping to bring the story to life even more.

Overall, rather than simply trying to ramp things up with each book, the author expands the scope of the world to introduce new but still challenging enemies for the hero and it works out really well again.

[Note - I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.]

[Jose Cruz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another hit!
Dustin Graves goes to a pop concert with some friends from work, but Dustin can't have a normal night, so this is when things go horribly wrong. Over a hundred concert goers dead and Dustin is found in the middle of the problem by the Lorica. Dustin has to contend with demons, a Scion of the Lorica, and a strange man covered in stranger tattoos.

Nazri Noor has crafted a great world here full of magic and divinity, and I found myself thinking how a cross over with Harry Dresden (Dresden Files by Jim Butcher) would go; THIS IS HIGH PRAISE FROM ME, BY THE WAY. After book 3 I was looking forward to this book, and after this 4th book I was hungry for the next book. Sadly, as of the righting of this review the next several books have not been narrated into audio book form yet. Some of my favorite moments were Dustin's investigative work/antics, Dustin evolving and really developing his own fighting style, and the funny moments when characters call Dust out when he thinks he is being sneaky and mysterious.

Luke Daniels, perfect narrator for the series, as I have mentioned in earlier reviews.

[Chancey "Does not give out 5's like candy" Knowles · Rating 4 out of 5]

Less a review; more a few observations since 4 stars. This is strictly a supernatural adventure story. After 4 books, there is still not even a hint of a romance except between two side characters. It appears to be geared as a YA (young adults) series. That being said, as long as no one is expecting any romance not even "puppy love", it is an interesting ride. I am not sure how memorable it will be, but it kept me entertained and engaged. The author continues to put a real effort into creating a world and story that is engaging and where the characters are definitely growing and developing.

I still nfeel those who enjoyed Hailey Turner's Soulbound series will also enjoy this one as long as the reader is not looking for a romance. The books were solid. There were a few editing / proofing issues but nothing that was problematic.

I will eventually continue to read this series even without a bundle. But, I am taking a break. It seems to me the author does a great job reminding readers of previous events, so I'm going to test that theory in the future.

This is the 2nd series I have started from this author. I also really enjoyed Nazri's "Arcane Hearts" which is based in the black market mentioned here.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dustin, even when relaxing finds trouble. Now he and his cohorts must find the reason one hundred people drop dead after a concert. Sterling is afraid for the first time as they explore what happened and why. In the meantime Dustin must find a Book that had devastating magic spells in it or loose his soul as his half of a bargain with a demon comes due. Violence reins as his enemies get meaner and faster. Thankfully his friendships grow deeper and are like family. Beware as this book hold murderous intent, beings that Dustin didn't know existed, violence, mind control, growing knowledge about the Loreric, Evil books of magic, Soul bargains, Demon royalty, a rock star and lots of other stuff that add twists and turns to this awesome story. This author just keeps on giving to the entertainment of his readers. I voluntarily read and reviewed this ARC book.

[Pamela Cunningham · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the fourth book in this series it's about a young man who finds himself with a kind of magic called shadow magic this series is about how he became a shadow mage and the people around him and the adventure 's they have .

This was the best book in the series as of yet so much went down I'm really liking the relationship between all the characters have at the end of this book . Especially Bastian and Dustin I don't know where it's going but I get the feeling that there's more there than has been explored looking forward to the next installment .

[echo1440 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This installment of the Darkling Mage series has the characters we’ve grown to love but their plight is different than what we’ve seen in the previous three books. There is a new bad guy in town and he is…extremely misguided. No word on the eventual emergence of the eldest but this book is jam packed with action and intrigue.

Like all books by Nazri Noor, this one features all of his hallmarks: sass, snark, plot for days, and a whole lot of heart. I have especially enjoyed watching Dustin’s found family develop.

[Samantha · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was like a bag of chips. I could stop with just reading one chapter. I had to sit down and binge a bunch. I never know where this series is going to go and I'm perfectly fine with that. It was rough getting into this series but I haven't been able to put this series down since book 2. I don't see myself stopping until I get to the end.
It's refreshing to read a story where there is no romance but instead such a hard focus on forming friendships and family relationships. Dustin had no one at the beginning and now he has so many people. And I can't wait to see what comes next.

[Joscelyn Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Our friendly neighborhood shadow mage is back

It was just supposed to be a night out with friends to a concert but we all know Dusty's luck. Things go from pop music to FUBAR, then things get really bad. It's a blood-soaked, shadow stepping rollercoaster ride from beginning to end and one hard fought battle whose outcome is iffy at best. I absolutely loved it, I can't get enough of this series. Book five can't come soon enough.

[Lisa Cripe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic urban fantasy

Following Dustin during his journey ever deeper into the arcane world is a fun trip. Dustin and friends always try to do good things. This is what you get when a mage, a vampire, and a necromancer go to a concert and the singer happens to be a siren. It does not go well. Things are not what they seem..... Grab a beer, settle in and enjoy this darkling mage book I'm off to read the next installment in this series.

[Dolorianne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series gets better with every book. Loving all the cross agency cooperation, even though some of the higher-ups either don't know or don't approve. Dustin is taking huge risks in this one, crossing his fingers that honoring his word won't come back to bite everyone on the butt. The magic and mayhem comes in a different form than expected and the payoff at the end gets a little emotional. Was not expecting that.

[Levi Rivas Pratt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oblivion Heart takes the Darkling Mage series to a sharper, more confident place, with higher stakes and a darker edge that finally delivers on its promise. Dustin’s voice still carries the trademark snark, though it blends better here with the heavier tone. The action is tight and engaging, even when the story slows down for exposition. It’s a compelling turning point that shows the series hitting its stride.

[Tara Ramanatarakindal.Com]

A keeper

There are very few series out there that keep you coming back. This is definitely one of them. I've read this entire series several times now and have yet to tire of it. Every time something new pops up I didn't notice the first time. The characters are fully developed and engaging. Trust me when I say this series will be a keeper for anyone who gives it a read

[Sheelagh Regan · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story continues

I love the writing style of these fun with adventure the skills of all the characters seem to get better each book. I want to see how far he will evolve please stay human and don’t go to far into the dark Dustin

[Lee Hall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Incredible!

This series just gets better and better! I’m so glad to have discovered Nazri Noor’s urban fantasy series. His writing style is amazing, his characters are always well thought out and the storyline is amazing. Highly recommended

[Dick SantaCruz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Read

This series is good. All the books are worth buying. Dustin is a quirky character who somehow survives each disastrous encounter. Lots of action.

[Selena · Rating 4 out of 5]

Even better

Lightening quick and chock full of excitement. He just gets better as the books go on. Can't wait to see what's next!

[William Dickie]

Sweet read

Another wonderful book. I'm just reading away with these books. Well book five is next and ready for more fun.

[Richin109 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this book.

Recommend this and series to anyone. Cannot wait to read the next book in the series. Well written and interesting

[Franklin J. Vergara M. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best in the series

This is by far the best book in the series, you definitely need to give this book a try. This series keeps getting better and better.

[Grimm646 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome

Awesome read just like the last 3, love the series cant wait to read the the rest thankyou for the adventures

[Jan van Es · Rating 5 out of 5]

AWESOME MASTERPIECE SEEIES. I TOTALLY RECOMMEND. DIVING INTO BOOK 5 after 2 days no internet so hindered progress to start book 5

[Denise White · Rating 5 out of 5]

First five star review of the series I really am starting to love Dustin Graves, his Snark, his loyalty to his friends and the books just keep getting better and better off the book 5