Where Oblivion Lives (#1)
In T. Frohock’s novel of supernatural intrigue in the prelude to World War II, a mysterious threat surfaces near the Black Forest to menace the nefilim of Europe…
In Catalonia, 1932, rogue nefil Diago Alvarez has given up the independence he’s prized for lifetimes and sworn allegiance to Spain’s angelic Inner Guard. Violence is brewing among immortal forces and earthly ones alike, and Diago hopes the Inner Guard’s stronghold, Santuari, will protect him, his husband, and their 7-year-old son. But Santuari’s skeptics whisper about Diago’s daimonic heritage, hinting of spies and sabotage. Diago wakes to nightmares every night. It’s not until a crisis breaks that he realizes the dreams are attacks, sent via mortal technology and Diago’s own stolen Stradivarius.
Diago must retrieve the violin, and quickly, trusting as much as he can to the Inner Guard’s underground alliances. As he crosses Spain, France, and Germany, evading brownshirts and Rhinemaidens, fragmented memories of a past incarnation are thrust upon him. Someone wants him to question the path he’s chosen. But until he reaches the decaying manor where the attacks originate, Diago can’t learn why. And once he arrives, there’s no telling what form danger might take…
Reviews
“Frohock has intricately woven a unique reinterpretation of history. Eloquent prose accompanies a lyrical theme amid prewar tensions, enriching this imaginative historical fantasy.”
“WHERE OBLIVION LIVES is a dark and beautiful historical fantasy with a strong setting and stronger characters, one that has settled under my skin and wound its way into my bones in a way that I won’t soon forget.”Realms
“WHERE OBLIVION LIVES is as full of pathos as it is thrills. Historical context, social commentary, fantastical music-magic, quick pacing, and a deeply personal narrative form a chorus that sing a story you’ll long to hear again.”
“The story builds momentum like a piece of music as the various threads converge on a Gotterdammerung crescendo.”
“I heartily recommend this to anyone who likes angel/demon stories, music magic, fantasy mixing with pre-WW2 history, and male protagonists who embrace vulnerability.”
“Dancing on the line between horror and fantasy, the adventures and situations that Diago faced kept me flipping pages long after my bedtime.”
“Anyone interested in historical-grounded dark fantasy should give the Los Nefilim verse of T Frohock a try. There are wondrous things within to be found.”
"[WHERE OBLIVION LIVES is] the kind of story that casts a spell on readers, immersing them in words as vivid and resonant as the music the nefilim imbue themselves with as they weave their magic."
“Where Oblivion Lives is a character driven story and Frohock sings [the characters] to life so well.”
“I didn’t just want everything that has to do with this novel, I needed it to soothe a part of my soul.”
“An outstanding read.”
"Where Oblivion Lives blew me away. It’s one of those books that swept my legs out from under me and left me reeling. A lot happens in these pages, not only with plot, but a lot of subtle details as well, which creates this perfect balance between relentless forward motion and personal growth. The world is so real, I felt transported there. The magic system is beautiful, and the prose are the icing on top of a positively decadent cake."
“Beautifully written. You can rely on Frohock for clear writing and, when the situation demands it, beautiful prose […] The story itself is a slow burn leading to an exciting crescendo with some genuinely creepy vibes.”Mark Lawrence, author of Red Sister
“Brooding, intense, and introspective, WHERE OBLIVION LIVES evokes an eerily plausible 1932 Spain and France full of supernatural forces skirmishing in preparation for a bigger war, right in parallel with humanity. This is dark historical fantasy that sings.”Beth Cato, author of Breath of Earth
“Frohock is a unique talent, and she has written a beautiful book. Parts of it will break your heart; the rest will make it whole again. I can’t wait to read the next installment.”Judith Tarr, author of Lord of the Two Lands and Forgotten Suns
“Gorgeously lyrical, T. Frohock weaves a lush tapestry. At times beautiful and brutal, I am in awe of this unbelievably talented story-teller. Highly recommended!”Michael R. Fletcher, author of Beyond Redemption