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Darkling Mage #5

Midnight's Son

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The walls of our world have shattered. The Eldest are coming.Mad angels and demon princes were once the worst of Dustin Graves’s problems. Now rifts are tearing open in the fabric of reality. Eldritch abominations are slipping through, plunging the world into peril.

All signs point to the awakening of the cosmic horrors known only as the Eldest, and Dustin desperately needs immense arcane power to stop them. The quickest way is to offer himself to the Midnight Convocation, a grand assembly of the entities of night and shadow. The only question… who gets to claim his soul?

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

209 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 8, 2019

210 people are currently reading
132 people want to read

About the author

Nazri Noor

52 books394 followers
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.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
Profile Image for Carole (Carole's Random Life).
1,938 reviews607 followers
September 24, 2020
This review can also be found at Carole's Random Life in Books.

I had a great time with this book! I was excited when I learned that there was a new audiobook available in this series and I couldn't wait to get started with it. This is the fifth book in the Darkling Mage series which is a series that really should be read in order since each book builds on the events in earlier installments. I was really eager to see what Dustin and his friends would do next and I was not disappointed. This was a very entertaining book.

The characters in this series are very well done and I like the fact that in this stage in the series, I feel like I really know them. Dustin is smart, brave, and tries to do what is right. He also has a great sense of humor which helps lighten the mood of the story and is quite entertaining. I like the way that we have seen his relationships grow and change over the course of the series. I really look forward to catching up with all of the key players in this story.

This installment was really exciting. The entire world is in jeopardy and Dustin is the one that has a chance to make things right. It seems that he is up against incredible odds and one task seems like it will be absolutely impossible but that does not stop Dustin from trying. I had no idea how things would work out and I was more than a little worried for Dustin several times in the story.

Luke Daniels does an amazing job with this series. He really has been able to bring Dustin and the rest of the characters to life. I think that he is able to add a lot of excitement to the story and he delivers the humorous parts of the book expertly. I feel like Luke Daniels is the perfect narrator for this series and I really enjoyed my time with this book.

I would recommend this book to others. Nazri Noor has created an exciting world filled with wonderful characters. This book was very entertaining and I am already looking forward to the next audiobook in this wonderful series.

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

Initial Thoughts
I enjoyed this adventure with Dustin and the rest of the gang. This story was exciting and I continue to love Dustin's sense of humor. Luke Daniels did a phenomenal job with the narration.
Profile Image for Mary Enck.
Author 1 book12 followers
March 23, 2020
Midnight's Son - Darkling Mage Book #5 continues to give me breath takeaways in the prose. Here is just one quote where I stopped and let the taste of it roll around my tongue like a sip of fine wine.

"Her hair felt as cold as a winter’s evening, like the smooth surface of a leaf that had lived through the spring, and every star in every strand burned with the pale, sharp heat of summer."

How does he do it? Such beautiful writing comes along rarely. That is why I enjoy these stories so much. There is action aplenty and dialogue that is entertaining, but the brief glimpse into a scene that makes me shiver with delight is what I really love. Thank you again, Nazri.
Profile Image for Connie.
443 reviews21 followers
July 6, 2020
New Eldest rifts are appearing over Valero, and as if that's not enough, a powerful group wants Dustin dead. To fight back Dustin needs to find the Midnight Convocation and appeal for patronage, and win the crown of stars, to stand the slightest chance against the Eldest.
I'm absolutely loving this series. There's action, humour and a great cast of characters.
Right now, on to book 6.
Profile Image for Kazza.
1,551 reviews175 followers
February 26, 2019
I absolutely loved this book. It’s a great story and I already know it will be a re-reader for me. There wasn’t one thing I could fault. If you are looking for a well written urban fantasy series, one with some fun as well as gore, action, mythology, good world building, and a core group of characters who are like family and grow as the series develops, grab yourself a copy of this book. Start with the prequel – Penumbra – it’s free at Nazri Noor’s author site. Midnight’s Son is thrilling. Fun. Bloodthirsty. Dark. Action-packed and riveting, everything a good urban fantasy story should be this book is.
Blog review -
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546 reviews3 followers
February 26, 2019
Dustin does it again

Great Series. All the books are worth buying. As Dustin grows more powerful, the challenges continue to increase. Go Dustin.
Profile Image for Pamela Cunningham.
723 reviews
February 28, 2019
This is the city book in the Caroling mage series

This series get better with each book I can't wait for the next installment and yeah what's up with Herald and Dustin I hope that we get to see more interaction between them frankly I like Bastian too lol .
Profile Image for Alex (HEABookNerd).
2,440 reviews
May 11, 2024
MIDNIGHT'S SON had the usual fast paced action with Dustin and his allies fighting to protect humanity from the Eldest. This felt a little bit like a middle of the series filter book but we did get some new gods and goddess and some new powers for Dustin.
Profile Image for Nicole.
76 reviews1 follower
February 22, 2019
Hooked on the book

Love this series and this book was just as great as the others. Nazri has a great writing style that drags you in and before you know it your in his world, a world of magic and lessons and family. The boys of the boneyard keep you laughing throughout and has you rooting for their victory!
Profile Image for Joscelyn Smith.
2,299 reviews17 followers
February 16, 2019
Trust in Dustin

As the dark times get closer and closer Dustin and his friends are working their asses off to get the higher ups to take an interest. Dustin really stepped up and a bloody good time was had by all...well by those left standing. I absolutely love this entire series, Dustin is starting to come into his own and I can't wait to see what's in store for him next.
Profile Image for James Salvador A. Loverio.
4 reviews
February 24, 2019
Can't wait for the next one

Nazri has a way with words. He takes on a ride that is both enjoyable and terrifying at the same time. I can't wait to get my hands on the next one. Hope it's a bit longer though. :)
Profile Image for Lee Hall.
1,209 reviews7 followers
June 18, 2021
Incredible!

I’m completely blown away with this series! Nazri Noor has created an epic urban fantasy series that has everything I enjoy reading. Snark, heart, magic and the balls that a major character has to have. This series is amazing and well worth reading! Highly recommended
501 reviews20 followers
May 28, 2019
This series just keeps getting better.

While I have enjoyed the series immensely since the first book, as the series has progressed, the world and characters keep getting richer and more decadent. This is, by far, my favourite installment in the series (and not just because my favourite character reappears and plays a role I'm happy with!)

With the basic world-building complete in the sense that the rules are well-established, the author has been able to devote the time and energy to really develop the characters. In addition to witnessing Dust (the narrator/protagonist) develop and mature, the minor characters (some of which appeared in previous installments) are given more to chew on, revealing them to be more complex than in previous books.

I also feel that Dust's maturing is unfolding in a very natural and organic way - that is to say, he doesn't even really recognise the changes in himself. (As someone who survived my 20s, that was also my experience - I pretty much held on by my fingertips until the worst was over, and eventually realised that I had smartened up along the way).

Dust's sarcasm and wit are, as always, in evidence. Those elements, plus his naivete provide much comic relief. Again, the writing doesn't feel forced at all.

I also really appreciate the way the author handles romantic elements. There are some romantic threads woven through the series, but, to date, these have not overwhelmed the story. The notion of romance as the be-all and end-all is a trope in fiction that frustrates me to no end. Instead of torrid passion, we get a slow, gradual glow (I can't say that it's risen to a burn yet, but we seem to be headed that way). Each novel does advance the romantic element, but the characters are both too inexperienced and too busy trying to save the universe to be distracted by such utter foolishness. Again, this seems a sweet and honest element that feels true to the characters.

The more I read of this series, the more I love it. I am all-in, and am very much looking forward to reading more of Dust's adventures.

I received an ARC from the author.
Profile Image for Myriam.
645 reviews26 followers
March 24, 2019
I know I feel the same about every book in this series, but once again, this was my favourite in the series. What can I say, the author just keeps on proving over and over again why I love his work so much. Suspense is off the charts! Again!
The author's satirical style and witty dialogues still had me laughing. However, as the story progresses, the tone becomes more serious, and the fast paced action had me biting my nails once again. 
The characters continue to be amazing, the world continues expanding, and the author's writing is superb and consistent. Again we learn a bit more about Lorica and some of the characters, as well as some of the Gods and legends.
Dustin is facing more trials and new challenges and discovers more about his powers. His loyal friends continue to support him and put their faith in his abilities. In his own words: "Trust in Dustin."
This was yet another amazing book in the series and I can't wait to read the next one.
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).
Profile Image for Mandy.
4,893 reviews46 followers
February 17, 2019
Darkling Mage Dustin Graves has a new problem when rifts in reality start appearing and abominations come from them putting the world into danger. It all points towards the awakening of the Eldest and Dust is going to need some powerful arcane power to stop them. To get that quickly he will have to offer himself to the dark and shadow entities known as the Midnight Convocation - the question is which member will receive his soul as payment?

There is a heightened level of evil, drama and danger in this episode of the series as Dust tries to hone his powers and save the world which trying to avoid the might of the Lorica. I loved the way the roles for some people he did not consider friend or allies became reversed at very unexpected moments which was a bit of a surprise to me as well as Dust. I loved that there were some suggested emotions which might come to the fore in later books (you will know what I mean when you read it). Everything was well written and suitably dramatic in all the right places. A great story that leaves me wondering what next for him?
Profile Image for Barbara.
1,005 reviews8 followers
February 12, 2019
Dustin and his "Arcane Warriors" are at it again. The Elders are opening rifts into our world almost faster than they can close them. The Lorica are denying the Elders are back until they decide there is a problem and the problem is Dustin. So they set out to destroy him. However he has friends in the Lorica organization and they set out to help. Carver and the rest of the crew dig into help too. To become strong enough to defeat the Elders, Dustin decides to give up his soul and ask one of the Gods to be his Patron. He and his friends face battles, bloodshed, monsters, and the Dark room. Harold is at Dustin's side through it all as are his friends in the Boneyard and Lorica. Hints are shown in our hearts that there may be an attraction between Harold and Dustin...as I hope there is. Dustin sinks deeper into the shadows knowledge and he is now ok with that. As long as he keeps his face turned towards the sun. An exciting read. I voluntarily read and reviewed this ARC book.
Profile Image for Colin Rowlands.
240 reviews2 followers
July 18, 2020
The problems for both Dustin and the world as a whole continue to ramp up in this latest instalment of the series with rifts intruding on reality and those in charge of magical enforcement deciding that the best way to defend against this threat is to nuke Dustin from orbit.

Such a dire situation leads to desperate plans and Dustin decides that gaining sufficient power to stop these rifts is worth sacrificing his soul in the process, but will he even survive the process of gaining that power.

As expected by now, this narrator delivers a strong performance, bringing the main character and an extensive supporting cast to life even more and helping to enhance the enjoyment of the book.

Overall, another enjoyable instalment in this series with a good plot and interesting characters.

[Note - I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.]
Profile Image for Samantha.
152 reviews
January 9, 2024
This one started a little slow for me but the back half of the book was an absolute fun ride. The work Dustin goes through to get dontrol of his powers and with each book he becomes a little stronger. But I know there is going to come a catch down the rode because its slowly been hinting at the toll the Dark Room is putting on him. Also I really like Heralds and Dustins interactions in this book and the last book, they are really hinting at Herald maybe liking him more than just a friend. That or I'm just really reading too much into, even if it doesn't lead to that I really like Dustin being with his friends! The dynamics and the fights are unique and fun, sometimes I feel like I have an anime playing in my head when I read.
15 reviews
March 23, 2019
If you’re a fan of Cisco Suarez, you will love Dustin Graves!!

I’ll admit when I stumbled across the Darkling Mage on Monday (that would be 18-3-19) I honestly didn’t think too much of him, the style felt a lot like Domino Finn (possibly with a little Jim Butcher ‘Harry Dresden’ style thrown in) but by the end of the first book I was hooked!
I’m not going to tell you anything about the storyline other than to say it’s now Saturday (23-3-19) and I’m writing this review having just finished reading book 5, now I have to wait for Nazin Noor to hurry up and finish writing book 6 so that I can read it *sigh*
107 reviews1 follower
April 6, 2020
UNIQUELY NOOR TO THE TERRIFYING END

Always uniquely intriguing and edifying, and how can Dustin always have the manure-fest thrown at him and still pull us through? Still smart mouthed, still snarky, still the "handsomest" savior of this physical world. This one was a little slow to start but boy did it blow your hair back when it started down hill. The fight scenes are good and the finally, well bodily evacuations did cross my mind. Don't miss it!
Profile Image for Aethena Drake.
1,182 reviews3 followers
October 2, 2020
My favorite in the series so far. The action just doesn't stop, and I am a huge fan of interesting character development. I really enjoy getting to know all of the characters in this series. Even the villains are fascinating.

This series is perfect for audio, and the narrator does an excellent job of creating voices for the characters.

If you are looking for an action packed, fun, fantasy series, Check out this series!
937 reviews13 followers
May 23, 2022
This one switches gears a bit. Dustin & Co are still under threat, but instead of playing whack-a-mole with the enemy Dustin decides to take a more pro-active approach, leading him on a personal quest. It was fun to see reactions from each of the ancient gods involved, and it was clear that many are more than a little fond of him even while they play their games. Loved the twist during the final battle scene, though I have no idea what that means in the larger picture. Excited find out though.
Profile Image for echo1440.
177 reviews5 followers
April 9, 2023
So much happened in this book that I struggle to think of an adequate review. There was quite a bit of character development for Dustin and the found family vibes from the guys at the boneyard and their friends at the Lorica strengthened even further.

The twists and turns in this book kept me guessing and flung me violently from one plot point to the next (in the best possible way). That is one thing you can say about this author—his books are literally never boring.
Profile Image for Em Taylor.
90 reviews2 followers
March 24, 2019
Just keeps getting better

Nope has definitely hit his stride with this universe.

To be picky, a couple of errors in spelling or word choices, but not a problem. Though 'nice my time' distracted me for a few minutes. It's bided my time.

Like I said though, in the grand scheme of things who cares. A great story, can't wait for the next instalment.
84 reviews1 follower
April 10, 2020
Really great addition to series.

This one was the best so far. I'd have really liked to see the addition of the crown of stars and have mix enter the story as a mothering figure but all in all great story. His dependence on powers of his own is probably a better plot point in long run. Great job mr. Noor well done.
20 reviews
March 8, 2022
Chapter 17. I know Dust is hard headed and doesn't always think things through. He's been on the run from the supernatural FBI for less than 24 hours. They are trying to kill him. He knows they have Eyes everywhere. And the dude stops by his dad's house on the way out of town. Seriously? He's either the biggest idiot and doesn't deserve to live or...I don't know. This makes no sense.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Levi Rivas Pratt.
186 reviews
September 14, 2025
Midnight’s Son continues with a mix of sharp humor and supernatural chaos, but it doesn’t always balance the two smoothly. Dustin’s voice is consistent, though some of the jokes wear thin against the heavier, somewhat chaotic storyline. The action beats are fun, with some stretches that drag between conflicts. It’s a serviceable installment, but not one of the series’ standouts.
Profile Image for Enid Rodriguez.
42 reviews1 follower
February 19, 2019
The story gets better and better

You know it's a good story when you get all emotional. I had to put my Kindle down for two days before I finished reading. It was that intense! Can't wait for the next book in the series.
145 reviews
April 21, 2019
Great read!

Dustin is a funny likeable mage who, along with his friends , entertain me tremendously. Awesome urban fantasy series. You need to read the previous books to keep up and it is well worth it. Thanks Nazri for a great escape into the arcane world.
200 reviews
May 12, 2019
Brilliant as always

I love this series of books the characters have so much depth and have grown so well during this series of books. It is cool that you never know who they will call upon for help. A good bit of action inthis one now on to book six
184 reviews1 follower
December 23, 2019
Just plain Awesome

Honestly I did not thought this story could become any better, and then the Ice Sorcerer gave the Shadow Bitch voy his jacked and just like that this story became epic.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews

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