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Death's Embrace #1
Heart of Dust
'Doran had a problem, and it wasn't that he'd been stabbed.'Iole City is in turmoil. Doran Ó Seanáin, leader of the Black Lung Gang, is determined to bring the Archon, Arajon's tyrannical ruler, down for his brutal treatment of the miners. But Doran has more to deal with than getting stabbed and a city-wide lockdown that's seeing his gang of ex-miners being slowly starved out of their base. His daughter Grace has turned against him, and the weight of his wife's death haunts them both.Things start to look up when he's inexplicably drawn to Nathaniel Morgenstern, the apotheker with a mysterious past he owes his life to, but Doran is in way over his head. The fate of the mines hangs in the balance; the clock is ticking and the Archon is closing in.Doran's plan to break the cycle may very well be his last.
250 pages, Paperback
First published February 19, 2018
About the author
H.L. Moore
12 books53 followersH. L. Moore (she/they) is the author of the Death’s Embrace fantasy series and the Tales from the Jovian Empire sci-fi novella series.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
April 29, 2026
Reviewed as part of the SPFBO XI for team Abel.
Heart of Dust is an urban fantasy that pulls you in from the very start. We get thrown into the mix of a conflict between the Black Lung Gang lead by our MC Doran and Lord Archon. The tension felt a bit pushed in the beginning but as the story continues it becomes more of a natural state of things. I did enjoy how Moore used the city wide announcements to remind us that while Doran is doing all of these things, he is wanted. I enjoyed the approach to the romantic elements of the story, a very slow burn but not focal point of the overall plot that felt real and not forced.
The class system has some great exploration of themes while also flipping the normal power dynamic on its head a bit. The action was palpable and kept me interested throughout.
This is a shorter read but definitely one that felt like a complete story but leaves me wanting to continue the series when I can to see how everything plays out.
Overall I have this a 3.75/5(rounded to 4 here).
Heart of Dust is an urban fantasy that pulls you in from the very start. We get thrown into the mix of a conflict between the Black Lung Gang lead by our MC Doran and Lord Archon. The tension felt a bit pushed in the beginning but as the story continues it becomes more of a natural state of things. I did enjoy how Moore used the city wide announcements to remind us that while Doran is doing all of these things, he is wanted. I enjoyed the approach to the romantic elements of the story, a very slow burn but not focal point of the overall plot that felt real and not forced.
The class system has some great exploration of themes while also flipping the normal power dynamic on its head a bit. The action was palpable and kept me interested throughout.
This is a shorter read but definitely one that felt like a complete story but leaves me wanting to continue the series when I can to see how everything plays out.
Overall I have this a 3.75/5(rounded to 4 here).
May 6, 2018
Good luck at the coalface
The story follows Doran Ó Seanáin, the leader of the Black Lung Gang, an underground group (literally, they're miners) fighting for the rights of the miners in Iole. The book starts with Doran staging a riot where he is stabbed. He runs for his life and ends at the door of an apothecary owned by Nathaniel Morgenstern, a stranger who patches him up and saves his life, without asking anything in return.
Nathaniel and Doran will end up attracted to each other, but a dark secret in Nathaniel’s past will throw a wrench in their relationship. Don’t expect steamy sex or hot kisses because there will be none. The romance is a subplot of the story and in the first book it's just in its budding phase.
The main story is about the fight Doran and his gang lead against Archon Bryson Carlyon, the big fish in Iole who owns the mines. The miners’ demands are simple, standard rights: more ventilation shafts in the mines, better wages, repairs to the mines ridden with sinkholes and collapsing tunnels. The Archon turns a deaf ear to the demans.
Through the book, Doran and the Archon will play cat and mouse which will culminate with Doran threatening him he will blow up the mines if the demands are not met by Samhain.
In this cat and mouse play, one thing was getting on my nerves. This announcement, which appeared 7 times in the book. By the end, I was able to recite it by heart.
“As a reminder to all citizens, it is a crime to aid and abet a fugitive. If you are harbouring the terrorist Doran Ó Seanáin or any other members of the Black Lung Gang, you will be arrested and charged as disrupters of the peace and accessories to crimes against Iole City. The reward for surrendering Doran Ó Seanáin to authorities is 10,000 gold coins. “However, Archon Bryson extends an offer of truce and mercy to Doran Ó Seanáin. Turn yourself over to the authorities, end the strike, and release the citizens held hostage by your gang in Diamond District, and Archon Bryson promises that you will face a fair trial. “This has been an emergency broadcast. Archon Bryson wishes the citizens of Iole City serenity and prosperity.”
This was an interesting world. We understand there is some magic as we are told there are Druids, and secret assassin guilds, so I hope we will get more of them in the next book.
All in all the plot was a little predictable, but the book was entertaining to read.
Writing: The writing was good, although I did have some issues with the info dumps (mostly done via dialogue) from the first 50 pages. But if I wanted to read an infodump I’d rather read it in a dialogue than in a monologue or during the narration. 4 stars.
Characters: I liked the female characters the most. All of them from Lien, to Rhian, to Grace, even to Gertrude Harrington were strong women who didn’t take any bullshit from no one. I liked the boys too. Each of them had distinct qualities, had their own voices and none of them were stereotypical. 5 stars.
Plot: Character driven plot with one or two plot holes here and there. 3 stars
Entertainment: This was a nice, easy book to read during the weekend. 3 stars.
That would take my average rating to 3.8 stars.
I received this free copy from the author in return for an honest review via the M/M Romance Group DBML program
The story follows Doran Ó Seanáin, the leader of the Black Lung Gang, an underground group (literally, they're miners) fighting for the rights of the miners in Iole. The book starts with Doran staging a riot where he is stabbed. He runs for his life and ends at the door of an apothecary owned by Nathaniel Morgenstern, a stranger who patches him up and saves his life, without asking anything in return.
Nathaniel and Doran will end up attracted to each other, but a dark secret in Nathaniel’s past will throw a wrench in their relationship. Don’t expect steamy sex or hot kisses because there will be none. The romance is a subplot of the story and in the first book it's just in its budding phase.
The main story is about the fight Doran and his gang lead against Archon Bryson Carlyon, the big fish in Iole who owns the mines. The miners’ demands are simple, standard rights: more ventilation shafts in the mines, better wages, repairs to the mines ridden with sinkholes and collapsing tunnels. The Archon turns a deaf ear to the demans.
Through the book, Doran and the Archon will play cat and mouse which will culminate with Doran threatening him he will blow up the mines if the demands are not met by Samhain.
In this cat and mouse play, one thing was getting on my nerves. This announcement, which appeared 7 times in the book. By the end, I was able to recite it by heart.
“As a reminder to all citizens, it is a crime to aid and abet a fugitive. If you are harbouring the terrorist Doran Ó Seanáin or any other members of the Black Lung Gang, you will be arrested and charged as disrupters of the peace and accessories to crimes against Iole City. The reward for surrendering Doran Ó Seanáin to authorities is 10,000 gold coins. “However, Archon Bryson extends an offer of truce and mercy to Doran Ó Seanáin. Turn yourself over to the authorities, end the strike, and release the citizens held hostage by your gang in Diamond District, and Archon Bryson promises that you will face a fair trial. “This has been an emergency broadcast. Archon Bryson wishes the citizens of Iole City serenity and prosperity.”
This was an interesting world. We understand there is some magic as we are told there are Druids, and secret assassin guilds, so I hope we will get more of them in the next book.
All in all the plot was a little predictable, but the book was entertaining to read.
Writing: The writing was good, although I did have some issues with the info dumps (mostly done via dialogue) from the first 50 pages. But if I wanted to read an infodump I’d rather read it in a dialogue than in a monologue or during the narration. 4 stars.
Characters: I liked the female characters the most. All of them from Lien, to Rhian, to Grace, even to Gertrude Harrington were strong women who didn’t take any bullshit from no one. I liked the boys too. Each of them had distinct qualities, had their own voices and none of them were stereotypical. 5 stars.
Plot: Character driven plot with one or two plot holes here and there. 3 stars
Entertainment: This was a nice, easy book to read during the weekend. 3 stars.
That would take my average rating to 3.8 stars.
I received this free copy from the author in return for an honest review via the M/M Romance Group DBML program
September 28, 2018
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
The plot sounded more than intriguing and I decided to try it and I’m glad I did. Heart of Dust is well written and hooked me from the first page. The author has done an excellent job of conveying the poverty and danger in which the coal mining families of Iole City are forced to live. Death is constant and suffering a way of life. But it’s the only job for the poor and the conditions are beyond horrific. Doran’s strike is well intended, but since the murder of his wife, Doran has struggled to be the leader his people need. His desperation and despondency are palpable and I found it impossible not to feel for him. Nathaniel is more mysterious and we know his secrets can’t be good ones. But when he and Doran are together, they have a natural chemistry that is both sweet and engaging. This romance is a slow burn to be sure, but if feels more realistic because of that.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
4 stars
The plot sounded more than intriguing and I decided to try it and I’m glad I did. Heart of Dust is well written and hooked me from the first page. The author has done an excellent job of conveying the poverty and danger in which the coal mining families of Iole City are forced to live. Death is constant and suffering a way of life. But it’s the only job for the poor and the conditions are beyond horrific. Doran’s strike is well intended, but since the murder of his wife, Doran has struggled to be the leader his people need. His desperation and despondency are palpable and I found it impossible not to feel for him. Nathaniel is more mysterious and we know his secrets can’t be good ones. But when he and Doran are together, they have a natural chemistry that is both sweet and engaging. This romance is a slow burn to be sure, but if feels more realistic because of that.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
November 6, 2020
This story grips you hard and never lets go. It hit the ground running and kept its steady pace with suspense, grit and ever so subtle love subplot that was barely there but at moments felt so potent. There was no steam between the MCs Doran and Nate but plenty of longing, restraint and intensity. But the plot twists in the end, oh wow, just blew my mind and made me look at Nate with my eyes wide open as well as many others. I didn't see it coming. The story is told from single POV, Doran's, so all the emotions we experience are through him and his experience which are harsh and desperate but show how much he has endured.
The author created this new world that I could get lost in. I devoured the struggles of Black Lung Gang, the despair and effort it took to stand up for their beliefs and continue going when it was an impossibility. That said I felt a tad confused with the some of past events mentioned that never got explained. I hope that they become clear to me in the next book. Yes, I am so looking forward to the next book.
I found the descriptions of Iole City and its districts very detailed and so vivid that I could see the soot and darkness, could feel the pressure on the people who lived there. The author did a smashing job on it. The characters were diverse, complex and a bit rough around the edges. Their relationships were so well sewn into the fabric of the story, everything flowed just seamlessly. I could not put it down.
To put it in a nutshell, this was a story with suspenseful and well thought out plot, many unexpected twists, diverse and intricately constructed characters, no steam but such a gentle romantic undertone that made me root for both men and get them their happy ever after and the villain so nasty that I loved hating them! Awesome!
The author created this new world that I could get lost in. I devoured the struggles of Black Lung Gang, the despair and effort it took to stand up for their beliefs and continue going when it was an impossibility. That said I felt a tad confused with the some of past events mentioned that never got explained. I hope that they become clear to me in the next book. Yes, I am so looking forward to the next book.
I found the descriptions of Iole City and its districts very detailed and so vivid that I could see the soot and darkness, could feel the pressure on the people who lived there. The author did a smashing job on it. The characters were diverse, complex and a bit rough around the edges. Their relationships were so well sewn into the fabric of the story, everything flowed just seamlessly. I could not put it down.
To put it in a nutshell, this was a story with suspenseful and well thought out plot, many unexpected twists, diverse and intricately constructed characters, no steam but such a gentle romantic undertone that made me root for both men and get them their happy ever after and the villain so nasty that I loved hating them! Awesome!
May 31, 2022
I adored this. This was a fast paced, lightly romantic gay fantasy story featuring coal miner's, rebellion, assassin's and an apothecary. It had just the right amount of sarcastic humor, non-stop action and the romance was believable between the characters. Really give this a try. It's quick, at under 300 pages, and it's worth it. 5 ⭐
February 17, 2024
Really enjoyed the story but didn't hold my attention as much as I wanted for some reason... Might just be because I haven't had that much time to read lately.
Full review to come. Rating might change.
Absolutely love the cover!
(Some day I'll get to all my reviews... D: )
-
Edit: Apparently, I have no screenshots of this book. For me, that means a lot. Read this a couple months ago and, if I'd realized that, I might've tried to write a full review sooner. However, here we are. So the above stays, as well as the rating since... I just don't have anything more to add.
A few more bits are coming to me about the book as I'm trying to think for this review but nothing noteworthy. Maybe that'll change...
A lot of the daughter's part really bothered me. For multiple reasons.
Probably won't continue the series.
Full review to come. Rating might change.
Absolutely love the cover!
(Some day I'll get to all my reviews... D: )
-
Edit: Apparently, I have no screenshots of this book. For me, that means a lot. Read this a couple months ago and, if I'd realized that, I might've tried to write a full review sooner. However, here we are. So the above stays, as well as the rating since... I just don't have anything more to add.
A few more bits are coming to me about the book as I'm trying to think for this review but nothing noteworthy. Maybe that'll change...
A lot of the daughter's part really bothered me. For multiple reasons.
Probably won't continue the series.
March 11, 2018
Awesome!
Great world building, intriguing characters, compelling plot, and lovely writing--exactly what I'm looking for in a book. Definitely recommend, and can't wait to read the next book!
Great world building, intriguing characters, compelling plot, and lovely writing--exactly what I'm looking for in a book. Definitely recommend, and can't wait to read the next book!
May 2, 2018
A free copy of the book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
(I wavered a bit on the rating - this is probably more of a 3.5)
It seems fitting that I read most of this book on May Day, since Heart of Dust is really about labor disputes and organizing. This was, for me, probably the most compelling aspect of the story - there are no easy answers to be found here when it comes to balancing the costs of revolutionary action against their hoped-for benefits. Organizing and activism are very relevant to me right now, so I really appreciated seeing them given so much focus in a fantasy novel. However, as another reviewer commented, the story puts too much emphasis on individuals (heroes and villains) and not enough on groups of people and systems. (Like, how did Doran think that a riot was somehow going to lead to a revolution without anyone else's help? An uprising is not something that typically just happens spontaneously. It takes many people working together to lay the groundwork and, often, to lead the charge.) I think the book does have some interesting things to say about fractures within movements, especially regarding tactics, but... well, no wonder Doran is having so little success - he's terrible at working with his co-leaders, and even worse at working with the community. Now, the hero-centric thing is fairly typical for fantasy, but I found it disappointing given the focus in the story on labor and resistance.
I thought the setting was very cool, especially with the use of color in the cave. The author did a pretty good job of weaving the history of this unusual settlement into the story. I also appreciated the lack of judgement around gender and sexuality that was evident throughout. Though the information about other societies in this world was limited, there was enough to be intriguing.
The romance was pretty sparse (which was actually totally okay with me), and Nathaniel remained pretty mysterious for much of the book. There were some other interesting, complicated relationships, but I sometimes found the other secondary characters (especially those in the mines and the Black Lung Gang) to be hard to tell apart. I will agree with other reviewers in wishing to hear some of the story from Grace's perspective, although I do understand why that wasn't done in this book - maybe in book 2?
The ending seemed a bit too tidy for me. Several pieces of it felt very predictable, and some of the transitions were a bit too easy. But this is only the first book, so again - maybe things will be more complicated in book 2?
(I wavered a bit on the rating - this is probably more of a 3.5)
It seems fitting that I read most of this book on May Day, since Heart of Dust is really about labor disputes and organizing. This was, for me, probably the most compelling aspect of the story - there are no easy answers to be found here when it comes to balancing the costs of revolutionary action against their hoped-for benefits. Organizing and activism are very relevant to me right now, so I really appreciated seeing them given so much focus in a fantasy novel. However, as another reviewer commented, the story puts too much emphasis on individuals (heroes and villains) and not enough on groups of people and systems. (Like, how did Doran think that a riot was somehow going to lead to a revolution without anyone else's help? An uprising is not something that typically just happens spontaneously. It takes many people working together to lay the groundwork and, often, to lead the charge.) I think the book does have some interesting things to say about fractures within movements, especially regarding tactics, but... well, no wonder Doran is having so little success - he's terrible at working with his co-leaders, and even worse at working with the community. Now, the hero-centric thing is fairly typical for fantasy, but I found it disappointing given the focus in the story on labor and resistance.
I thought the setting was very cool, especially with the use of color in the cave. The author did a pretty good job of weaving the history of this unusual settlement into the story. I also appreciated the lack of judgement around gender and sexuality that was evident throughout. Though the information about other societies in this world was limited, there was enough to be intriguing.
The romance was pretty sparse (which was actually totally okay with me), and Nathaniel remained pretty mysterious for much of the book. There were some other interesting, complicated relationships, but I sometimes found the other secondary characters (especially those in the mines and the Black Lung Gang) to be hard to tell apart. I will agree with other reviewers in wishing to hear some of the story from Grace's perspective, although I do understand why that wasn't done in this book - maybe in book 2?
The ending seemed a bit too tidy for me. Several pieces of it felt very predictable, and some of the transitions were a bit too easy. But this is only the first book, so again - maybe things will be more complicated in book 2?
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May 26, 2026(RTC)
December 14, 2025
Full Disclosure: I received a free copy of the book (ebook) in exchange for an honest review.
Further disclosure: I was looking for a book to read after reading the Captive Prince trilogy.
So, I'm going to say this. Anyone wanting to read something after Captive Prince when they are in love with or obsessed with Captive Prince probably should step away and read something really different before diving back in with something similar. If you are obsessed with Captive Prince (CP), then I'm guessing everything else will pale in comparison.
So. Heart of Dust.
Moore has built a very interesting world. I feel like there is way more to this world than what we get to experience in this first book. The world we come to know is industrial, but not in the steampunk industrial way. It's just hard labor, death and despair.
Of course, there's the elite, with their shiny clean roadways and big houses. Untouchable and unattainable.
Where Captive Prince had multiple threads of tension that were kept taut throughout the entire trilogy, this book falls short. But, falling short of CP Standards is well, like, falling short of beating the world record marathon time when you can't even run around your block. It's a very high standard.
Doran (the main character) has a tragic past. You get to understand his past. What you don't fully realize is how all the other characters figure into his life. And honestly, at the end of this book, while there's closure on the story arc of THIS book, there are still questions that need to be answered.
If you like character driven books with great world building this is a really good book.
Here's something else to like. The main characters are older. Well, it's something to like if, as a reader, you are also not a 20-something young upstart. These MC have lived long enough to have seen offspring grow up.
Yeah. Soul of Ash is next in the series. And it's on my "Want to Read" list.
Why? Moore has managed to create a set of characters that I give a F'k about.
I want to know what happens to Doran, and Nate, Lien, Tiernan, and Sam….
Further disclosure: I was looking for a book to read after reading the Captive Prince trilogy.
So, I'm going to say this. Anyone wanting to read something after Captive Prince when they are in love with or obsessed with Captive Prince probably should step away and read something really different before diving back in with something similar. If you are obsessed with Captive Prince (CP), then I'm guessing everything else will pale in comparison.
So. Heart of Dust.
Moore has built a very interesting world. I feel like there is way more to this world than what we get to experience in this first book. The world we come to know is industrial, but not in the steampunk industrial way. It's just hard labor, death and despair.
Of course, there's the elite, with their shiny clean roadways and big houses. Untouchable and unattainable.
Where Captive Prince had multiple threads of tension that were kept taut throughout the entire trilogy, this book falls short. But, falling short of CP Standards is well, like, falling short of beating the world record marathon time when you can't even run around your block. It's a very high standard.
Doran (the main character) has a tragic past. You get to understand his past. What you don't fully realize is how all the other characters figure into his life. And honestly, at the end of this book, while there's closure on the story arc of THIS book, there are still questions that need to be answered.
If you like character driven books with great world building this is a really good book.
Here's something else to like. The main characters are older. Well, it's something to like if, as a reader, you are also not a 20-something young upstart. These MC have lived long enough to have seen offspring grow up.
Yeah. Soul of Ash is next in the series. And it's on my "Want to Read" list.
Why? Moore has managed to create a set of characters that I give a F'k about.
I want to know what happens to Doran, and Nate, Lien, Tiernan, and Sam….
February 20, 2018
I read this book all in one day, no, all in one sitting. I found myself enthralled, absorbed and unable to put this book down from start to finish. H.L. Moore made me care about these characters in a way that made me physically ache when they struggled, when they hurt. I wanted the protagonists to succeed, and when they suffered hardship, I hurt for them.
I screamed when Doran - the downtrodden title character - lost his daughter to his mortal enemy. I cried when he recounted the particulars of his wife's death. And I raged as the romance burned slowly enough to nearly go out before the wick reached the explosive powder.
The world building is so lovingly crafted that it feels as though the place is real - as though it existed or did exist in the past. the religious portions are so seamless that it's neither preachy nor heavy-handed. The "fantasy Jewish" blended with "fantasy Paganism" fits so well together that both belief systems are perfectly complimented. It's not shoved down your throat, the way so many religious or faithful portions of books can do, but seemed a rich story portion that was interesting - even necessary - to the books overall feel.
The plot itself twists and turns and caused me to gasp out loud several times. My heart pounded, I closed the book twice, and when I reached the end, I mourned because there were no more pages to read. I didn't want it to end and I'm so beyond excited to read the coming sequel. I require more of this universe, more of these characters, just more, more, more.
6/5, would recommend and read again and again, for as many times as I can. Please give this book a chance, I promise you won't be disappointed.
I screamed when Doran - the downtrodden title character - lost his daughter to his mortal enemy. I cried when he recounted the particulars of his wife's death. And I raged as the romance burned slowly enough to nearly go out before the wick reached the explosive powder.
The world building is so lovingly crafted that it feels as though the place is real - as though it existed or did exist in the past. the religious portions are so seamless that it's neither preachy nor heavy-handed. The "fantasy Jewish" blended with "fantasy Paganism" fits so well together that both belief systems are perfectly complimented. It's not shoved down your throat, the way so many religious or faithful portions of books can do, but seemed a rich story portion that was interesting - even necessary - to the books overall feel.
The plot itself twists and turns and caused me to gasp out loud several times. My heart pounded, I closed the book twice, and when I reached the end, I mourned because there were no more pages to read. I didn't want it to end and I'm so beyond excited to read the coming sequel. I require more of this universe, more of these characters, just more, more, more.
6/5, would recommend and read again and again, for as many times as I can. Please give this book a chance, I promise you won't be disappointed.
April 24, 2021
An interesting fantasy, with definite steampunk elements, or should I say coalpunk? Is that even a thing? Anyway Doran is the leader of a The Black Lung Gang a band of coal miners who've banded together to strike against poor pay and dangerous conditions in the mines underneath the city. Doran's wife was murdered years previously in their home in front of their young daughter by an unknown man in a presumed robbery gone bad. The bad guy who is in control of the city and owner of the mines Archon Bryson, has a bounty placed on our MCs head, oh and he's now engaged to Grace, Doran's estranged daughter. After being injured in an attempt to start a riot our MC stumbles across an apothecary owned by Nathaniel Morgenstern, who takes him in and treats his wounds. The two become friends and eventually Doran admits to himself that there's an attraction there.
There's a lot going on in this book, Dorans relationship with his estranged daughter, his loosening grip on leadership of the gang as the situation with the mines get worse and his inner turmoil over his feelings for Morgenstern. Although I thought the book didn't really start to get going until after the half way mark, I'm glad I persevered. I do like a slow burn and this is definitely a slow burn.
There's a lot going on in this book, Dorans relationship with his estranged daughter, his loosening grip on leadership of the gang as the situation with the mines get worse and his inner turmoil over his feelings for Morgenstern. Although I thought the book didn't really start to get going until after the half way mark, I'm glad I persevered. I do like a slow burn and this is definitely a slow burn.
February 23, 2018
I downloaded this and read it in one evening. It is set an incredibly well crafted world with normalised queerness. The romance is incredibly slow burn and complex and is part of the story rather than it's entire focus. I loved it and can't wait for the next one.
January 11, 2025
Absolutely tore through this book!! Incredibly compelling world, characters, twists, and romance development. Highly recommend.
February 9, 2021
Heart of Dust is an adult fantasy that follows the POV of Doran Ò Séanain- the leader of the black lung gang- a group of professional miners, and families of the lower class that are tired of unfair negotiations, little pay and food, and losing their loved ones to the mines. Doran is fighting for equality between the nobles and the poorer population. However, the Archon- sort off like the king- sits in his castle and refuses, and so Doran wants to start a revolution.. only things don’t go as planned.
Honestly- I found the plot to be very boring and while the world building was intriguing- Doran’s character fell flat. He read more like angry sixteen year old throwing a tantrum, rather than a leader. He made the most RIDICULOUS decisions and we’re constantly told about his wife and how great she was. And yes, she sounded amazing but she’s dead and the constant flashbacks grew tiresome.
Doran also projects his wife’s personality onto their daughter and constantly belittles the fact that she’s nothing like her. Their relationship is complex to say the least and I did love how she proved him wrong!!
There were two saving graces ( the sole reason I will read the sequel) and they were Lien- badass second in command who constantly saves Doran from himself- and Nate- tired apothecary with deadly secrets.
There’s also hints of a romance between Nate and Doran and I’m curious- especially after what happens.
Overall, not for me, but it is short and easy to read. I am going to read the sequel.
Honestly- I found the plot to be very boring and while the world building was intriguing- Doran’s character fell flat. He read more like angry sixteen year old throwing a tantrum, rather than a leader. He made the most RIDICULOUS decisions and we’re constantly told about his wife and how great she was. And yes, she sounded amazing but she’s dead and the constant flashbacks grew tiresome.
Doran also projects his wife’s personality onto their daughter and constantly belittles the fact that she’s nothing like her. Their relationship is complex to say the least and I did love how she proved him wrong!!
There were two saving graces ( the sole reason I will read the sequel) and they were Lien- badass second in command who constantly saves Doran from himself- and Nate- tired apothecary with deadly secrets.
There’s also hints of a romance between Nate and Doran and I’m curious- especially after what happens.
Overall, not for me, but it is short and easy to read. I am going to read the sequel.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 16, 2026
A very well written story. No spice in this first book of the series. Fairly quick read as well! I enjoyed the world building and character building as this book will set up the following books. Nice twist, or two, in the book as well that you won't see coming. It is mostly action and adventure and slightly touches on the romance that I think will play a larger part in the story in the future books of the series.
January 15, 2026
4.5/5
“Doran had a problem, and it wasn't that he'd been stabbed.”
Heart of Dust by H.L. Moore is an amazing story about leading a resistance, dealing with heavy duty of leadership, and grief.
Doran is the leader of the Black Lung Gang, a resistance group fighting for rights of the miners, oppressed and exploited by the leader of the city. It’s written very well and I could understand his fight and feel his grief and anger.
This book had a great exploration of leadership and how tough it can be to lead a resistance when you are backed into a corner, and every move you make only seems to make everything worse for people that you fight for.
The book somehow reminded me of the John Wick
quote.
“Killing a man can turn him into a martyr. Letting him live, tells the world he's a coward or a turncoat.”
I enjoyed the story a lot, the language was very vivid, the world gritty and realistic, and the themes important and timely.
The resolution of the conflict might have been a tiny bit too fast for my taste, but overall I really recommend this story, it’s fast paced, grabs you from the first page and doesn’t let go.
Thank you to the author for providing a copy in hopes of an honest review. All opinions and thoughts are my own.
“Doran had a problem, and it wasn't that he'd been stabbed.”
Heart of Dust by H.L. Moore is an amazing story about leading a resistance, dealing with heavy duty of leadership, and grief.
Doran is the leader of the Black Lung Gang, a resistance group fighting for rights of the miners, oppressed and exploited by the leader of the city. It’s written very well and I could understand his fight and feel his grief and anger.
This book had a great exploration of leadership and how tough it can be to lead a resistance when you are backed into a corner, and every move you make only seems to make everything worse for people that you fight for.
The book somehow reminded me of the John Wick
quote.
“Killing a man can turn him into a martyr. Letting him live, tells the world he's a coward or a turncoat.”
I enjoyed the story a lot, the language was very vivid, the world gritty and realistic, and the themes important and timely.
The resolution of the conflict might have been a tiny bit too fast for my taste, but overall I really recommend this story, it’s fast paced, grabs you from the first page and doesn’t let go.
Thank you to the author for providing a copy in hopes of an honest review. All opinions and thoughts are my own.
February 11, 2022
Doran Ó Seanáin has a lot on his plate right now. His wife is dead, his daughter hates him, and he’s the leader of a group of rebel miners, the Black Lung Gang, who are trying to bring down the corrupt Lord Archon. To top it all off, he’s just been stabbed while trying to start a revolution and he’s on the run from the guards who are hunting him through the night streets. Looking for help, he stumbles through the door of Nathaniel Morgenstern, a mysterious apotheker with an unparalleled gift for healing, and Doran is drawn in. Even as tensions rise between the Black Lung Gang and the Lord Archon, Doran can’t stay away from Nathaniel and is determined to uncover his secrets.
I want to clarify my rating for this book before we get too far into this review, because I know 3 stars can sometimes be seen as average or middling. I decided many years ago that I wouldn’t use half-stars until Goodreads made it an option. It’s probably never going to happen, but this is a hill I will die on. If I gave half stars, Heart of Dust would be somewhere between a 3 and a 4. But I don’t, so I had to compare it to other fantasy books I’ve read and it came out of that comparison with a strong 3. It’s certainly one of the better self-published novels I’ve read and it’s clear that Moore has taken the time to think about the world and the politics, and how the characters fit into them. The plot is not overly complex – it’s actually much more straightforward than I was expecting it to be, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. If you want a solid fantasy that’s fast to get through, I would definitely tell you to pick up this one. But if you’re looking for something that’s going to really dive deep into the politics surrounding the situation Doran and the Gang find themselves in, you won’t find that here. As someone who reads a lot of in-depth fantasy, I had mixed feelings. I was a little disappointed about the lack of complexity and in-depth study of the world, but at the same time, I enjoyed it enough to burn through it in two days. A lot of that enjoyment comes down to the characters. Doran is engaging as a main character, and at times much more light-hearted than I was expecting him to be, but he was conflicted in a number of ways. I enjoyed the tension that existed between him and his daughter, although I often scratched my head over his acceptance of her situation.
In many ways, the ending of Heart of Dust is what makes it really interesting. This is a spoiler-free review, so I won’t go into specifics, but I was not expecting things to conclude the way they did. In many ways, the world that Doran inhabits is completely changed and that makes me excited to read the second book. I want to see how he adapts and how he meets the new challenges that he will inevitably face. I also want to see more of Nathaniel. If I had to choose a favourite character from Heart of Dust, it would probably be him, because I’m a sucker for a guy with a dark and mysterious past. But I want to see how the relationship between Nathaniel and Doran develops. I could understand why Doran was so drawn to him in this book, but of course there was a big reveal that shifted that dynamic. I also want to know more about where Nathaniel comes from and how he got into the life he has.
Moore has said that she was influenced by C. S. Pacat and I can see that in her writing. Pacat is one of my favourite authors, so maybe it’s not a surprise that I enjoyed Heart of Dust. I’m hoping that Moore can build on what she set up in the first book in the same way that Pacat did. I don’t expect to have to wait long, because I’ve already bought book 2.
If you’re looking for a quick and engaging fantasy read, or if you’re a fan of Pacat’s Captive Prince, give Heart of Dust a go. If you’ve already read it, let me know what you think!
CW: References to being buried alive
I want to clarify my rating for this book before we get too far into this review, because I know 3 stars can sometimes be seen as average or middling. I decided many years ago that I wouldn’t use half-stars until Goodreads made it an option. It’s probably never going to happen, but this is a hill I will die on. If I gave half stars, Heart of Dust would be somewhere between a 3 and a 4. But I don’t, so I had to compare it to other fantasy books I’ve read and it came out of that comparison with a strong 3. It’s certainly one of the better self-published novels I’ve read and it’s clear that Moore has taken the time to think about the world and the politics, and how the characters fit into them. The plot is not overly complex – it’s actually much more straightforward than I was expecting it to be, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. If you want a solid fantasy that’s fast to get through, I would definitely tell you to pick up this one. But if you’re looking for something that’s going to really dive deep into the politics surrounding the situation Doran and the Gang find themselves in, you won’t find that here. As someone who reads a lot of in-depth fantasy, I had mixed feelings. I was a little disappointed about the lack of complexity and in-depth study of the world, but at the same time, I enjoyed it enough to burn through it in two days. A lot of that enjoyment comes down to the characters. Doran is engaging as a main character, and at times much more light-hearted than I was expecting him to be, but he was conflicted in a number of ways. I enjoyed the tension that existed between him and his daughter, although I often scratched my head over his acceptance of her situation.
In many ways, the ending of Heart of Dust is what makes it really interesting. This is a spoiler-free review, so I won’t go into specifics, but I was not expecting things to conclude the way they did. In many ways, the world that Doran inhabits is completely changed and that makes me excited to read the second book. I want to see how he adapts and how he meets the new challenges that he will inevitably face. I also want to see more of Nathaniel. If I had to choose a favourite character from Heart of Dust, it would probably be him, because I’m a sucker for a guy with a dark and mysterious past. But I want to see how the relationship between Nathaniel and Doran develops. I could understand why Doran was so drawn to him in this book, but of course there was a big reveal that shifted that dynamic. I also want to know more about where Nathaniel comes from and how he got into the life he has.
Moore has said that she was influenced by C. S. Pacat and I can see that in her writing. Pacat is one of my favourite authors, so maybe it’s not a surprise that I enjoyed Heart of Dust. I’m hoping that Moore can build on what she set up in the first book in the same way that Pacat did. I don’t expect to have to wait long, because I’ve already bought book 2.
If you’re looking for a quick and engaging fantasy read, or if you’re a fan of Pacat’s Captive Prince, give Heart of Dust a go. If you’ve already read it, let me know what you think!
CW: References to being buried alive
May 7, 2018
I received the book in exchange for a honest review
4-Stars,
4-Stars for the first sentence alone:
"Doran had a problem, and it wasn’t that he’d been stabbed."
That first sentence was actually, what made me request the book for review.
The book is well written. The characters are well thought out and distinguishable.
As that first sentence indicates, the story starts with Doran, the rebell leader being stabbed and fleeing the (city) guards of the Lord Archon. In all the hectic and blood loosing he runs past the hidden tunnel entrances and has to think fast on his feet. The gushing wound in his side decides for him and he tries for a apothecary where he literally stumbles upon Nathaniel Morgenstern...
For what ever reason I didn't expect so much of the story to take place in the mines. Don't ask me why. At first I wasn't sure if that would be my cuppa, but the story drew me in quick. The rebells all have the same goal, but there are different oppinions on how to get there. There are quarrels due to rations, living conditions, lock down, splinter groups etc.. Which was well done.
Nathaniel remains a mystery almost throughout the entire book and even when some of it is lifted, there are still enough questions to retain most of the mystery, which I quite like.
Although it hints on there being a romance between Morgenstern and Ó Seanáin, don't expect too much, as it's done very Jane Austen-y. With lingering looks and a touch on the shoulder here and there.
But I have to say, the way it is done, I wasn't too upset about it. It actually fitted the story quite well. Though don't misunderstand, I ship these two guys hard! Book two, Pretty please?
I also loved that none of the characters had a problem, that Doran felt attracted to a man. They had other issues but more with his character and not with the fact that he was a man, wich was quite refreshing.
Towards the end there were some scenes that were too neat and questionable at the same time. Also the way Grace, Dorans daughter behaves when introduced to the story remains odd. Or maybe that's just me?
However the future is not all well yet and there's some work to be done. A certain relationship to build. Hint, Hint. I'm waiting for the next book.
4-Stars,
4-Stars for the first sentence alone:
"Doran had a problem, and it wasn’t that he’d been stabbed."
That first sentence was actually, what made me request the book for review.
The book is well written. The characters are well thought out and distinguishable.
As that first sentence indicates, the story starts with Doran, the rebell leader being stabbed and fleeing the (city) guards of the Lord Archon. In all the hectic and blood loosing he runs past the hidden tunnel entrances and has to think fast on his feet. The gushing wound in his side decides for him and he tries for a apothecary where he literally stumbles upon Nathaniel Morgenstern...
For what ever reason I didn't expect so much of the story to take place in the mines. Don't ask me why. At first I wasn't sure if that would be my cuppa, but the story drew me in quick. The rebells all have the same goal, but there are different oppinions on how to get there. There are quarrels due to rations, living conditions, lock down, splinter groups etc.. Which was well done.
Nathaniel remains a mystery almost throughout the entire book and even when some of it is lifted, there are still enough questions to retain most of the mystery, which I quite like.
Although it hints on there being a romance between Morgenstern and Ó Seanáin, don't expect too much, as it's done very Jane Austen-y. With lingering looks and a touch on the shoulder here and there.
But I have to say, the way it is done, I wasn't too upset about it. It actually fitted the story quite well. Though don't misunderstand, I ship these two guys hard! Book two, Pretty please?
I also loved that none of the characters had a problem, that Doran felt attracted to a man. They had other issues but more with his character and not with the fact that he was a man, wich was quite refreshing.
Towards the end there were some scenes that were too neat and questionable at the same time. Also the way Grace, Dorans daughter behaves when introduced to the story remains odd. Or maybe that's just me?
However the future is not all well yet and there's some work to be done. A certain relationship to build. Hint, Hint. I'm waiting for the next book.
November 2, 2020
Heart of Dust is an excellent read, and even so I would say it is superseded by its sequel, Soul of Ash.
I found the book slightly dense at first: there was a fair bit of exposition where we got familiar with the world and its systems (a dystopian fantasy genre where a workforce, in this case miners, are being exploited by a rich elite class). Where the book really shines is the core cast of characters: Doran, Nathaniel, and Grace. They are complex characters that are actually flawed; they have complex emotional lives that sometimes inflict pain on the people around them. This is what kept me reading. By the time I hit about a third of the way through the book, I couldn't put it down.
The book's twist took me totally by surprise. I credit to this to how strongly Doran's POV influences the reader-- what he knows, I know, and so when something takes him by surprise, I found myself just as shocked.
Moore doesn't give their characters the 'easy way out' of making problems be hand-waved as miscommunications. Characters work through their interpersonal problems, bit by bit, and every scrap of character development is earned. No one is perfect, but everyone is expected to try, and in the act of trying-- making the effort-- is at the heart of the story.
Although some of the pacing with the exposition and flashbacks is slightly awkward, the rest of the book shone. I picked up the second immediately and devoured it in its entirety the next day.
I found the book slightly dense at first: there was a fair bit of exposition where we got familiar with the world and its systems (a dystopian fantasy genre where a workforce, in this case miners, are being exploited by a rich elite class). Where the book really shines is the core cast of characters: Doran, Nathaniel, and Grace. They are complex characters that are actually flawed; they have complex emotional lives that sometimes inflict pain on the people around them. This is what kept me reading. By the time I hit about a third of the way through the book, I couldn't put it down.
The book's twist took me totally by surprise. I credit to this to how strongly Doran's POV influences the reader-- what he knows, I know, and so when something takes him by surprise, I found myself just as shocked.
Moore doesn't give their characters the 'easy way out' of making problems be hand-waved as miscommunications. Characters work through their interpersonal problems, bit by bit, and every scrap of character development is earned. No one is perfect, but everyone is expected to try, and in the act of trying-- making the effort-- is at the heart of the story.
Although some of the pacing with the exposition and flashbacks is slightly awkward, the rest of the book shone. I picked up the second immediately and devoured it in its entirety the next day.
November 8, 2020
A stunning story that weaves deftly crafted characters and intriguing storylines without falling into the pitfalls of becoming tropey. So much care and precision is evident in the plotting and pacing of the action that it’s hard to believe this is a debut!
The world, including Iole City, is built so easily and cleverly that within pages you are transported into the land of the Black Lung Gang. The rivalries, friendships, heartbreaks and restrained passion are all sublimely real and engaging. Can’t wait to get started on book two!
The world, including Iole City, is built so easily and cleverly that within pages you are transported into the land of the Black Lung Gang. The rivalries, friendships, heartbreaks and restrained passion are all sublimely real and engaging. Can’t wait to get started on book two!
February 20, 2025
I picked up this book not really knowing what to expect. When I read it, I was absolutely blown away. The slow burn between Doran, a down-on-his-luck would-be revolutionary struggling with the death of his wife and past alcoholism, and Nathaniel, a mysterious apothecary owner who has a deadly addiction of his own, was phenomenal. Skillfully crafted. So glad the rest of the series is already out otherwise I'd go crazy waiting for the resolution after THAT ending.
Side note, I ADORE Grace.
Side note, I ADORE Grace.
February 22, 2018
fantastic book! i couldn't put it down :)
October 10, 2020
I've read this book twice so far and every time has been a pleasure. There is some grade A slow burn happening here along with some quality angst. I can't wait to dive into Book 2!!!!❤️
March 5, 2021
⭐️ 4.5 stars ⭐️
November 29, 2022
A solid first novel! I recommend it for folks who like slow burn romance.
Starting the second right now and I'm sure I will be begging the author for the third.
Starting the second right now and I'm sure I will be begging the author for the third.
December 12, 2024
bem impressionante pra um livro auto-publicado, mesmo que vários erros de digitação ainda tenham passado batidos na revisão.
September 16, 2020
This book was given to me by the author in exchange for an honest review and I am actually glad that I agreed on this deal, because that way I was forced to keep reading just for the sake of human decency alone even though it took me a while to step into the special world of „Heart of Dust“. I am not sure whether I would have persevered without having given the promise to write a review, because – and that is already my biggest issue with this book – I could not for the life of me imagine the world and the outer environment the author was depicting. The red prismatic zone? The Gold, the Bronze, the Methyr, the soot slums, Sionnan Falls? How many districts are there all in all, what is that expansion into the cavern supposed to look like? And how does the Labyrinth fit in?
I know I am not very adept at visual imagining at the best of circumstances but for this book I really feel I need help! I need pictures and a map of the city as well as the neighboring countries, and I sincerely beg H.L. Moore to help me out and add those devices in the next installments.
As soon as I laid my frustration about not being able to imagine the world the author was seeing aside and just plowed on despite the “visual chaos” in my head, the story got quite interesting. At the latest during the wonderfully dysfunctional scene between Doran and Grace, when he visited his daughter at her grandparents’ mansion, I was hooked. This scene was masterfully done – precisely because it was so horribly stiff and emotionally stunted it felt especially real and therefore somehow vibrant. From that scene on the action kept coming. I don’t want to spoil the story for you, I just want to say it is narrated lively and full of suspense.
I could have maybe done with a little less self-consciousness on Doran’s side, because it didn’t feel coherent to me that a person with that kind of massive insecurity would be accepted as the leader of a difficult and life-threatening rebellion. (Sure, Doran never was the instigator of the movement in the first place, he just tried to keep his late wife’s legacy alive, but nevertheless, maybe fewer self-doubts would be in order for the next book…)
The author’s forte is the construction of relationships between her characters. They are multi-layered and never one-dimensional, just like relationships in real life. Whether it is between parent and child, between lovers, between colleagues, between fellow rebels, there is never just love, never just hate, never just respect or disgust, it is always a mix of all emotions we humans have on hand and even as an observer on the outside you are kept on your toes because you never know where your protagonists really stand with each other. I deeply enjoyed that. (Well, maybe the Archon was a bit one-dimensional in his role as the bad guy, but )
So thank you, H.L. Moore, for gifting me with this book. I am looking forward to delving into your world again with the sequel, but as I said before, some aid and guidance for those who like me are “stunted in the area of visual imagination” would be appreciated.
I know I am not very adept at visual imagining at the best of circumstances but for this book I really feel I need help! I need pictures and a map of the city as well as the neighboring countries, and I sincerely beg H.L. Moore to help me out and add those devices in the next installments.
As soon as I laid my frustration about not being able to imagine the world the author was seeing aside and just plowed on despite the “visual chaos” in my head, the story got quite interesting. At the latest during the wonderfully dysfunctional scene between Doran and Grace, when he visited his daughter at her grandparents’ mansion, I was hooked. This scene was masterfully done – precisely because it was so horribly stiff and emotionally stunted it felt especially real and therefore somehow vibrant. From that scene on the action kept coming. I don’t want to spoil the story for you, I just want to say it is narrated lively and full of suspense.
I could have maybe done with a little less self-consciousness on Doran’s side, because it didn’t feel coherent to me that a person with that kind of massive insecurity would be accepted as the leader of a difficult and life-threatening rebellion. (Sure, Doran never was the instigator of the movement in the first place, he just tried to keep his late wife’s legacy alive, but nevertheless, maybe fewer self-doubts would be in order for the next book…)
The author’s forte is the construction of relationships between her characters. They are multi-layered and never one-dimensional, just like relationships in real life. Whether it is between parent and child, between lovers, between colleagues, between fellow rebels, there is never just love, never just hate, never just respect or disgust, it is always a mix of all emotions we humans have on hand and even as an observer on the outside you are kept on your toes because you never know where your protagonists really stand with each other. I deeply enjoyed that. (Well, maybe the Archon was a bit one-dimensional in his role as the bad guy, but )
So thank you, H.L. Moore, for gifting me with this book. I am looking forward to delving into your world again with the sequel, but as I said before, some aid and guidance for those who like me are “stunted in the area of visual imagination” would be appreciated.
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