Thirteen witches. Five swords. One sacrifice.Dustin Graves is grotesquely outnumbered. Agatha Black has completed her Coven of One, splitting her soul across thirteen bodies. One power-hungry witch razing the universe was bad enough. Thirteen of them can only mean total hell.
But there may be a way. Hecate, triune goddess of magic, whispers her forbidden secrets, showing Dustin a path too terrible to the Apotheosis, a ritual of five bloody blades that will finally grant the darkling mage the arcane might he needs to annihilate the Eldest. The result? Power overwhelming. The price?
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.
I love this series, and writing of the calibre of Endless Knight is the reason why.
Dustin and the gang are all here - Team Borica FTW
Daddy's Little Murderer and Daddy's Little God-Detector, aka Banjo the corgi, makes me laugh because the long-lived Carver is so affected by this adopted doggo
The potential of Dustin and the Apotheosis is a trip
Sterling is angry but at least we get an oldie but a goodie, "die in a fire" - how I missed that back and forth between Dustin and Sterling. Besides, anyone who stands in front of you, albeit with a katana from Susanoo, when Zeus is hurling lightning bolts your way is more than okay by me
It took me a couple of days to collect myself for this review. I loved this series addition
The story continues. The most powerful of witches, Agatha Black has completed her coven of one and the Eldest are on their way. It's starting to look like the end for humanity and the world as we know it. Hecate, Triune Goddess, hints to Dustin of a way to defeat Agatha, the coven, and save humanity, it's a ritual that will need five magic swords and a sacrifice. But will the price be to high? I have really enjoyed this series, it's fast, funny and the characters are great. I look forward to reading the Sins of the Father series
ENDLESS KNIGHT was an emotional "ending" to Dustin's journey. He's come a long way from book 1 and I've really enjoyed watching him conquer his powers, build friendships as strong as family, and even fall in love. The battle to defeat Agatha Black and the Eldest wasn't easy and required a big sacrifice but it all worked out in the end. I'm looking forward to seeing what's next for Dustin and reading all the other arcane underground books and see what everyone gets up to.
Dustin‘s story is not over, even though THIS book brought an end to the entire storyline. Needless to say, I am rushing through this review in order to get to that final book that shouldn’t even be there.
I don’t know what Nazri is going to do, for one more book, but I am excited beyond belief to find out!
So, start from the beginning, if you haven’t already, catch up, and ENJOY!
I finished the series featuring Dustin Graves, continuing from book 6 though book 9. There are two prequels and a short in there too. I've loved every second of the stories. Lots of action/adventure. Lots of family and friends time. Dustin gains new allies in every book leading up to the finale showdown in book 9. The tasks get harder and the sacrifices get bigger. His abilities are tested. Resources are lost and found. The Deities continue to play with him, but as it turns out, their 'lessons' prepare him for something huge so maybe they can be forgiven? And Dustin falls in love. While this series is not a romance, their relationship adds depth to Dustin's character, both as a person and his motivations.
I can't pick out a favorite part since everything was so good. The end of book 9 easily wraps up this part of the overall Arcane Universe story arc, but I'm sure there will be more from Dustin Graves sprinkled around.
Reading order notes: - There are no spoilers in Penumbra and can be read as a true prequel to the Darkling Mage series. - Crystal Brawl is early days, with Dustin still figuring things out. I'd put it somewhere after book 1 but before book 3. He learns a skill in Grave Intentions (book 3) that he is unable to do in the freebie short. - The next prequel is for a spinoff series that features a different character. Something happens in book 4, Oblivion Heart, that immediately triggers something elsewhere. That's where Ex Nihilo comes in. We don't actually have the resulting crossover until a few books later, but if you're a chronological reader like me, then you'll want to treat the Sins of the Father prequel as book 4.5 in the overall Arcane universe reading order. Otherwise, it can be read anytime after book 7 of the Darkling Mage series.
This ninth installment in the Darkling Mage series is my favourite - hands down. It picks up just after the eighth installment finished, and sees some familiar faces popping up in the course of Dust's ongoing quest to save the universe, eat fast food, and enjoy an afternoon in good company (not necessarily in that order).
The pacing and world-building are both excellent, as always. The character development remains impeccable, with Dust continuing to flail around a bit socially, and incrementally (and painfully) learning how to be a good friend/son/partner/mentor/student.
As the series has developed, the major thematic content has focused on the relationships that Dust has built in his life, and I find this to be a major strength. As a young adult, Dust lacks maturity and wisdom (as do most of us at that age), and his mistakes in relationships are relatable and absolutely realistic, despite the fantastic elements of the narrative. Moreover, Dust's sarcasm tends to get him into trouble - I can relate, although I am significantly better at discerning what should remain my "inside voice" - most days. Given that Dust is the narrator, his motivations (often to protect) for omitting details are always good-hearted, but I think it's pretty obvious that they're also wrong-headed, which leaves everyone but Dust aware that he's facing a train wreck in his personal life.
I thought this was painful and beautiful - truly, a perfect way to tie up some of the threads hinted at in earlier installments. I am eagerly anticipating what comes next.
The author is really increasing the heat with each book, and now the dramatic developments from the first couple of books seem like peanuts compared to the culmination of this book. And if any of the previous books seemed like a game changer, they weren't, this book was. I don't even know how to express my feelings for this book. Literally everything I might say is a spoiler. I can say that Dustin grows and yet stays the same lovable clumsy little cutie we met in the first book. So much changes with this book, and I even expected it to be the last, but fortunately the author has other plans. I can say though that events in this book are epic and that I loved it to pieces. I can't get enough of this author and I jumped into his new series immediately. The series is 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), Last Rites (Darkling Mage Book 6), Blood Pact (Darkling Mage Book 7), Crystal Brawl (Darkling Mage Short Story) in Urban Magic – Hungry, Young & Clever: An Urban Fantasy Anthology, Soul Fire (Darkling Mage Book 8) and Endless Knight (Darkling Mage Book 9). The new series featuring one of the characters is coming Ex Nihilo (Sins of the Father Book 0), Fallen Reign (Sins of the Father Book 1), False Gods (Sins of the Father Book 2), and Morning Star (Sins of the Father Book 3).
Dustin Graves came back to defeat the Lioness with a bang. This book had me laughing and crying. The hunt for the ritual swords gave us a great journey into the world that Nazri has created. Seeing Mammon and Loki who both have tried to kill Dustin now offer him a small piece to his future as a godling was ironic but very fitting.
The secret Dust held of his future after the ritual was a great plot device to throw some discord between our boneyard family. It broke all the boys' hearts and my own knowing that Dust may never see his loved ones except for the immortals again. It truly showed how willing he was to stop the evil of the eldest.
Dust’s goodbye to Harold was probably the hardest part of the book. Those two have built such a sweet relationship and the only thing that got me crying more was when he FINALLY was able to summon Dust after six months of trying. Also laughing that was a Happy Cow burger and fries that brought our shadow mage back from the dark room.
Luke Daniels does a great job as usual in narrating this series giving even more life to every character that Nazri created. Also, I always enjoy Luke’s blooper reel at the end of the audiobook.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Darkling mage Dustin Graves is incredibly outnumbered as Agatha Black has created a coven of one where her soul was split between 13 bodies. The combination will mean total hell and destruction of the Universe. But Hecate, triune goddess of magic, has come up with a way to save everyone - a ritual called the Apotheosis which need five magical blades that will finally grant the darkling mage the arcane might he needs to annihilate the Eldest and Agatha Black - the problem is the price is everything he loves.
Wow - this was a really emotional story where once again we have to "trust in Dust" but he also has to take a giant leap in faith and be prepared to lose everyone he holds dear. It was so nice to finally see Harold and Dustin having a proper relationship even if there were a big decision and sacrifice that had to be made. Loved the ending even though he still has a lot of work to do after everything is completed. Well written and a great story. Easy to read, feel and understand.
And here we are. The last, so far, in this series. It only left me wanting more. What an accomplishment to hold this story up like some magic star that moves through the night sky like a meteor. I hear there will be more adventures for Dustin Graves in some future novels. I will patiently wait and this time, it will be done with more anticipation than I have felt for very many series.
There was tremendous growth and development of maturity by this last book. I felt so good about the ending and knew that the author really cares about us, his readers, and how we view his work. He has a creative mind that is of some of the best in this world of fantasy he has designed for us.
It is difficult to express more except to say you need to read to see the source of my enthusiasm Thank you Nazri Noor for gifting us with this excellent series.
Dustin has to make a decision. Trying to fight a witch who has split herself into five is impossible odds seeing as how powerful she is. The world is in true danger and only Dustin, his friends in the boneyard and the Lorica are willing to step forward to stop her and The Elders. The goddess "Hecate" has a solution for that. Dustin can increase his powers by an "Ascension," but at what cost? His friends don't want him to do it, Harold, his boyfriend, begs him not to do it. Now Dustin has to decide if he wants to give up all that he knows and loves to save the world and all that he loves. Can he do it? Another wonderful, suspenseful, intense, violent, magical story that takes us further into Dustin's dark world. a book and the series that are must reads if you are a believer in magic.
Totally enjoyed this book. Dustin is becoming more and more intriguing. The boys of the boneyard are waiting for Agatha to do her worst. When they try to relax it just doesn't work for them. The Lorica are helping because they realize it's going to take everything they can throw at the crazy Agatha. Fun, funny, serious, lots of great moments in this book. The characters are evolving well and As always they should just "trust in, Dustin! I don't want to spoil anything, I'll just tell you read this book you won't be sorry.
This is the ninth book in the Darkling Mage series
This was a amazing read this is one of the best paranormal/supernatural fantasy series I've ever read and I've read a lot . Not every Author can consistently raise the bar with each new book but this Author does . The characters are likable and relatable we care about them we want the best for them . The world building is too notch set in modern day which makes it even easier to relate . Looking forward to Dustin's new adventures .
For me this book was the weakest in a very strong series
I loved this series. The story is consistent, characters develop in interesting ways and the quick pace is just what I needed to distract me for other very dense very mandatory reading.
But man I was not expecting this book to be so bland. All in all this is a very cool series. But this book could be a chapter of the previous book instead of a whole new book in the series.
Still this author has a lot of talent and I will definitely give the next series a chance.
This book was very well written with twists and turns I didn’t see coming. Dustin is prepared to do whatever it takes to end the threat of the eldest in our world. But he doesn’t tell his friends, which leads to drama and hurt feelings when they find out what’s in store for him.
My one complaint, and the reason it wasn’t quite five stars for me, was the ritual towards the end. It seemed a little thin I guess? I expected more, considering the stakes.
That being said, this book was in no way a disappointment.
Endless Knight amplifies the looming mythic menace and sacrificial stakes that make every choice feel catastrophic. Noor keeps his trademark snark and razor wit, but the book reads like the penultimate thunderclap that finally lets Dustin’s power and conscience collide on a massive, devastating scale. A few threads sprint forward toward the finale—some moments land with brutal clarity while others are compressed in service of setup—but the emotional weight and escalating consequences carry the story.
Yet another great book in The Darkling Mage series. If you haven't read the first eight books stop and go back!! Whilst each book is a story in its own right, the plot arc and character development throughout the series means it is worth reading in sequence. If you like your fiction full of snark, mythology, and adventure with a side of pathos, this is definitely for you.
This book has a believable character base that respond to situations like you would expect them to, especially emotionally. The story was amazing, slightly unexpected and full of little surprises. My only complaint would be it was overall a bit short, only took two consecutive hours to read. The ending could have also been extended a bit. Overall, it was a fantastic book that carries on the reputation of the previous books.
I've just finished the series in complete order. Very well crafted universe mr. Noor has created blending mythology and humanity seamlessly. The personalities of all the characters are wonderfully diverse and well crafted culminating in a well plotted story up to this book being the topper. Normally series get less of a good story for expediency but with these you won't go wrong. Well done.
The penultimate before the final book. I really like this book, it felt more mature in how Dustin acted and reacted to what he has to do. It was good and had some solid story telling and character development. I love the whole cast of characters we have been introduced to in this series and I'm a little saddened to only have one last book in the series. I have genuinely enjoyed the twists and turns this series has turned and where we have ended up at.
Nazri has done it again. This book keeps you on edge the whole time. You will not be able to put it down. There is such a twist in this one that makes you wonder about everything you’ve read in the other eight books. Funny, heart wrenching, and with a good battle it has all...
OMG! It's all been leading to this, every friendship and connection made culminates in one kickass battle royal. For Dustin it's all about sacrifice, as he began, so he ends. There is nothing I didn't enjoy in this and I am so ready for Mason's spin-off series, I have no doubt that it will be keeper-shelf material too.
Loved it so much I’m all caught up now with only one question: okay, 2... WHAT WILL HAPPEN NEXT?! And WHEN WILL BOOK 10 BE OUT?! Either way, I can’t wait for the next one, be it a DUSTIN, MASON OR QUILLIAM J. ABERNATHY book. PEOPLE, let NAZRI NOOR into your book hearts. You won’t ever be disappointed.
Best one yet! It is a great story and Dustin has grown throughout the books. Such fun/excitement in every chapter; from the demon manifestation, the Puppy Yum incantation to Herald’s summing circle. I am really looking forward to more of Dustin’s and his crews’ adventures.
I have really enjoyed reading this series so far,as the story and it's participate have grown in their depth and character. I look forward to the continuing story.
I rarely give five stars, but this book truly deserves it. Watching Dustin’s journey from a cocky boy to...what he becomes, has been a complete joy. I can’t wait to see what comes next!
Loves these books since the beginning and while this almost feels like a goodbye to our favorite speck of Dust, it also feels like new beginnings. Great series, fantastic author.
This was an epic ending to an Epic series! Nazri Noor has created an incredible series that I was completely entranced with. I’m looking forward to reading all of his amazing books. Highly recommended
Audio review The best one yet! Dustin's journey to defeat Agatha culminates in this book. He's showing great character growth while remaining true to himself. Excellent narration for all the characters. Luke Daniels is quickly becoming a top 5 narrator for me. On to the final.book!