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Stolen Hearts #2
Elixir of Strife
Water, water, everywhere.
Leon Alcantara and Maximilian Drake have barely caught their breath after saving the city from an untimely fate. Now the Jade Spider has a new assignment. A local magical plant shop has requested a strange elixir, the liquid essence of purest water.
In pursuit of the ocean potion, Max stumbles upon a tormentor from his past. Leon faces the challenge of hosting a second dragon, a legend much closer to home. And the mysterious Masques are more watchful than ever, shadowing the boys at every turn.
But strangest of all is a fresh spate of elemental anomalies in Dos Lunas. Life or death, sink or swim, Leon and Max must rise to the challenge — or drown under a tide of wicked magic.
Leon Alcantara and Maximilian Drake have barely caught their breath after saving the city from an untimely fate. Now the Jade Spider has a new assignment. A local magical plant shop has requested a strange elixir, the liquid essence of purest water.
In pursuit of the ocean potion, Max stumbles upon a tormentor from his past. Leon faces the challenge of hosting a second dragon, a legend much closer to home. And the mysterious Masques are more watchful than ever, shadowing the boys at every turn.
But strangest of all is a fresh spate of elemental anomalies in Dos Lunas. Life or death, sink or swim, Leon and Max must rise to the challenge — or drown under a tide of wicked magic.
187 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 28, 2023
37 people are currently reading
59 people want to read
About the author
Nazri Noor
52 books395 followersHi, 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.
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 - 18 of 18 reviews
December 21, 2023
I really loved this - the chemistry between Leon and Max is hot as sun - I like that their sniping has continued even though they’re not enemies like they were in book 1.
I listened to this on Audible and John Solo did an amazing job at the narration. It was SO good!
As a side note, I love a comedy villain and Devina was definitely that in this book!
I listened to this on Audible and John Solo did an amazing job at the narration. It was SO good!
As a side note, I love a comedy villain and Devina was definitely that in this book!
February 7, 2024
B- / 3.5 stars
I like the characters and the writing is lively, but I'm not sure the plot is gelling.
I like the characters and the writing is lively, but I'm not sure the plot is gelling.
August 5, 2023
not sure it passes the all important second book test.
Rating: 3.25🌈
Elixir of Strife is the second in the Stolen Hearts series by Nazri Noor and I’m not sure it passes the all important second book test.
That’s the one that’s supposed to deepen the arc plot while further engaging the reader in the main characters storylines and relationships. While it does tick some of those boxes, it actually makes the reader take a harder look at the main characters personalities, relationships, and elements thereof.
Those don’t come off as good as they did in the first book unfortunately.
Elixir of Strife (Stolen Hearts Book 2) by Nazri Noor is a strange mix of terrifically intriguing ideas, great secondary beings, increasingly irritating main characters, and a flawed plot. It’s so hard to find a good way to find a way through the entire story without having to stop at the bits that just don’t work.
It’s starts off with the best and worst of the elements. It’s a 2-person narrative, Leon Alcantara or Witch Boy and Maximilian Drake, who’s also a member of the Brilliant family. They are practicing their thievery skills but it’s their individual voices that’s becoming problematic.
For Max, the rich son whose rejected his wealthy arcane family for a semi independence, it’s a borderline self-indulgent, sexed up rich bad boy , “look at me” attitude that’s becoming sort of off putting. Especially when combined with his feelings towards Leon (confused) and his family (waffling).
Then there’s Leon. He’s still my favorite but now he’s leaning towards that deadly character tendency called TSTL. Combined with utter magical greediness, it makes sense he’s marching towards this aspect of the arc storyline without any real thought, but it’s enough to make a reader want to smack him.
“Consider this. How does it benefit us to weaken and kill a human who has willingly presented themself as a conduit for our power? Early man could not have traversed the oceans without a seaworthy vessel. Why would we break the best vessel we’ve found in a long while, knowing that the rest of our kind may still want a turn on the raft?”
My gut was so prepared to send me running away from all sea dragons, blaring warning sirens throughout my body. But yet again the lure of power left me standing with feet firmly planted”
That’s Leon taking on yet another dragon inside him, after questioning what’s the cost for the experience/power exchange. A bit of his soul? Yeah, let’s do it! Cause I’m not thinking through this. SMH. A classic TSTL.
But it’s right in the middle of a truly interesting aspect of this series storyline, that of sea dragons that approach Leon with a deal to inhabit his body in exchange for water magic/powers. So far we’ve met the god Tiamat and now we get Bakunawa, Filipino sea serpent, command of storms, fury of the seas.
I love the cultural aspect of the dragons and my only wish is that this is explored further.
Also great. New character Edel Wise (say that fast) , a hagiculturalist who’s a Demon gardener. They/she worked in the prime hells but was ready for something new! Loved her.
The new mission involves Daniel D Lyon from a large arcane family and his new business.
That’s Succulence and it’s forbidden evil olive. It needs an elixir. One wanted by many.
The mission is involved with lots of layers. Including the fabulous Jade spider herself , another fabulous woman and aspect of the series.
Noor keeps mixing bits that absolutely work with ones that make the reader question whether they should continue with the series. Wonderful details and character development with Leon meshing together the dragon of the moment. The way it goes wrong. The way is supposed to be a “hidden Entity “ but Leon basically tells everyone. Then at the end , after Leon has even let Bakunawa talk through him to a group of people, the Jade Spider says she forgives him his secrets. What secrets? He’s basically shouted it to the universe! Another SMH moment..
We go back and forth like this. Small betrayals, secrets that aren’t, and villains that always get away.
I’ll continue with the series but my frustration is increasing with the books.
Do i recommend reading this ? Read over my review and decide for yourself.
Stolen Hearts:
- [x] Hex and the City #1
- [x] Elixir of Strife #2
- [ ] All Out of Flux #3 -Sept 29,2023
Rating: 3.25🌈
Elixir of Strife is the second in the Stolen Hearts series by Nazri Noor and I’m not sure it passes the all important second book test.
That’s the one that’s supposed to deepen the arc plot while further engaging the reader in the main characters storylines and relationships. While it does tick some of those boxes, it actually makes the reader take a harder look at the main characters personalities, relationships, and elements thereof.
Those don’t come off as good as they did in the first book unfortunately.
Elixir of Strife (Stolen Hearts Book 2) by Nazri Noor is a strange mix of terrifically intriguing ideas, great secondary beings, increasingly irritating main characters, and a flawed plot. It’s so hard to find a good way to find a way through the entire story without having to stop at the bits that just don’t work.
It’s starts off with the best and worst of the elements. It’s a 2-person narrative, Leon Alcantara or Witch Boy and Maximilian Drake, who’s also a member of the Brilliant family. They are practicing their thievery skills but it’s their individual voices that’s becoming problematic.
For Max, the rich son whose rejected his wealthy arcane family for a semi independence, it’s a borderline self-indulgent, sexed up rich bad boy , “look at me” attitude that’s becoming sort of off putting. Especially when combined with his feelings towards Leon (confused) and his family (waffling).
Then there’s Leon. He’s still my favorite but now he’s leaning towards that deadly character tendency called TSTL. Combined with utter magical greediness, it makes sense he’s marching towards this aspect of the arc storyline without any real thought, but it’s enough to make a reader want to smack him.
“Consider this. How does it benefit us to weaken and kill a human who has willingly presented themself as a conduit for our power? Early man could not have traversed the oceans without a seaworthy vessel. Why would we break the best vessel we’ve found in a long while, knowing that the rest of our kind may still want a turn on the raft?”
My gut was so prepared to send me running away from all sea dragons, blaring warning sirens throughout my body. But yet again the lure of power left me standing with feet firmly planted”
That’s Leon taking on yet another dragon inside him, after questioning what’s the cost for the experience/power exchange. A bit of his soul? Yeah, let’s do it! Cause I’m not thinking through this. SMH. A classic TSTL.
But it’s right in the middle of a truly interesting aspect of this series storyline, that of sea dragons that approach Leon with a deal to inhabit his body in exchange for water magic/powers. So far we’ve met the god Tiamat and now we get Bakunawa, Filipino sea serpent, command of storms, fury of the seas.
I love the cultural aspect of the dragons and my only wish is that this is explored further.
Also great. New character Edel Wise (say that fast) , a hagiculturalist who’s a Demon gardener. They/she worked in the prime hells but was ready for something new! Loved her.
The new mission involves Daniel D Lyon from a large arcane family and his new business.
That’s Succulence and it’s forbidden evil olive. It needs an elixir. One wanted by many.
The mission is involved with lots of layers. Including the fabulous Jade spider herself , another fabulous woman and aspect of the series.
Noor keeps mixing bits that absolutely work with ones that make the reader question whether they should continue with the series. Wonderful details and character development with Leon meshing together the dragon of the moment. The way it goes wrong. The way is supposed to be a “hidden Entity “ but Leon basically tells everyone. Then at the end , after Leon has even let Bakunawa talk through him to a group of people, the Jade Spider says she forgives him his secrets. What secrets? He’s basically shouted it to the universe! Another SMH moment..
We go back and forth like this. Small betrayals, secrets that aren’t, and villains that always get away.
I’ll continue with the series but my frustration is increasing with the books.
Do i recommend reading this ? Read over my review and decide for yourself.
Stolen Hearts:
- [x] Hex and the City #1
- [x] Elixir of Strife #2
- [ ] All Out of Flux #3 -Sept 29,2023
September 3, 2023
Are we really doing this again?
Same exact review as book one, just for book two.
I don’t even know what’s going on anymore, honestly, because there’s just not enough information. Like, I get it. I’m not stupid, so I know the gist of everything that’s happening. But with the absolute bare minimum of tiny scraps of detail about the world and the lore, with even less detail on each MC and satellite character, it’s almost too difficult to try and make sense of things.
The mechanics aren’t it, either. The pacing and the choppy writing are still huge issues, as well as the “romance”. I wouldn’t call this a romance at all. It’s giving… nothing. It’s giving me nothing. And the only reason I made it this far was my brain doing the thing where I simply cannot leave something unfinished.
Again, it’s not the worst, but it’s definitely not doing it for me. And that whole scene in the shower? Is that what we’re gonna say is “dirty” and “filthy”? Really? Come on, my fellow human in Cheese Christ, you and I both know that’s not even remotely close to either one of those words. Try playin’ games with someone else. 🙄😬
3/5. Edel is the best character, thank you, that is all.
Same exact review as book one, just for book two.
I don’t even know what’s going on anymore, honestly, because there’s just not enough information. Like, I get it. I’m not stupid, so I know the gist of everything that’s happening. But with the absolute bare minimum of tiny scraps of detail about the world and the lore, with even less detail on each MC and satellite character, it’s almost too difficult to try and make sense of things.
The mechanics aren’t it, either. The pacing and the choppy writing are still huge issues, as well as the “romance”. I wouldn’t call this a romance at all. It’s giving… nothing. It’s giving me nothing. And the only reason I made it this far was my brain doing the thing where I simply cannot leave something unfinished.
Again, it’s not the worst, but it’s definitely not doing it for me. And that whole scene in the shower? Is that what we’re gonna say is “dirty” and “filthy”? Really? Come on, my fellow human in Cheese Christ, you and I both know that’s not even remotely close to either one of those words. Try playin’ games with someone else. 🙄😬
3/5. Edel is the best character, thank you, that is all.
July 30, 2023
Max and Leon are becoming more attracted to each other as time goes on. Vera, the Jade Spider, gives them and job. Not only that, Leon has another dragon who wants a turn in using his body. One that controls the oceans waters. Good thing too as the dragon must help Leon and Max out of serious trouble more than once. Max's cousin enters his life again and that isn't a good thing. Trouble follows their footsteps and the Masques keep an eye on them. Friends help as much as they can and Vera helps...or not. Once again we have a story with excellent adventures, sexy times and a promise that we will get to read more of our two new friends. An excellent series that lover's of the paranormal will definitely want to read.
August 4, 2023
After Leon and Max's previous adventure, the Jade Spider has another job for them. They continue to learn about one another as they pursue the next item that needs finding. But their pasts come a-calling.
This novel picks up immediately after the events of book 1. The characters are developed further, deepening the reader's understanding of their backgrounds and behaviours. The pacing is excellent. The snark is strong.
I am really enjoying this series and looking forward to the next installment in the series!
I received an ARC via the author.
This novel picks up immediately after the events of book 1. The characters are developed further, deepening the reader's understanding of their backgrounds and behaviours. The pacing is excellent. The snark is strong.
I am really enjoying this series and looking forward to the next installment in the series!
I received an ARC via the author.
July 27, 2023
This is book 2 in the series and should be read in order as it features the same characters. Leon and Max are tasked to find an elixir. As they try to find it, Max sees his cousin again, who is bad news. Meanwhile Leon houses another dragon off the ocean. Great steamy read as they are off finding this elixir. Great chemistry between them, lots of action and world building. Loved it and cannot wait to read more.
March 4, 2025
Now they’re settling into their relationship, navigating those early days when the push to know everything about your new love battles the need to pull back and hide the little facets of yourself that might be judged too harshly by the one person you want to see you in your best light. They’re under that rosy glow of new love when every gesture seems significant and every action the sexiest thing you’ve ever seen.
September 25, 2024
Second Finder Case
Leon & Max are hired to find an elixir for a client. They once again run into problems, which end in the Quartz Spider getting both vials and almost killing them, they are only save because of the dragon that’s temporarily sharing Leon’s body. I loved seeing Roscoe, Johnny and Tina again.
Can’t wait for the next one.
Leon & Max are hired to find an elixir for a client. They once again run into problems, which end in the Quartz Spider getting both vials and almost killing them, they are only save because of the dragon that’s temporarily sharing Leon’s body. I loved seeing Roscoe, Johnny and Tina again.
Can’t wait for the next one.
July 28, 2023
Elixir of Strife by Nazri Noor continues the adventures of relic finders Leon and Max. So now they are looking for a bottle of water. Ok, it’s a special bottle of water, the Aqueous Elixir. What can go wrong? It’s just water, isn’t it? You will have to read the book to find out! (MM-explicit).
July 31, 2023
Max and Leon are adorable
These just get better with every book! Another mission, some cool new characters, a new dragon, family issues, and a deepening of bonds between our pretty boys. This is one of Nazri's best yet!
These just get better with every book! Another mission, some cool new characters, a new dragon, family issues, and a deepening of bonds between our pretty boys. This is one of Nazri's best yet!
April 11, 2024
Elixir of Strife
I love this series! Max and Leon are a fantastic pair. The story is full of excitement, snark, fun, magic and love. I’m sooooo looking forward to reading more in this world. Highly Recommended
I love this series! Max and Leon are a fantastic pair. The story is full of excitement, snark, fun, magic and love. I’m sooooo looking forward to reading more in this world. Highly Recommended
August 5, 2023
Hate to say it, but as fun as these are, they're starting to get sloppy. A few continuity errors and slips too many in this one.
July 15, 2024
Slightly better
Read
September 16, 2024No rating!
This second book ended up being exactly like the first: I did not care for any of it. I didn't hate it but I was totally indiferrent to it!
This second book ended up being exactly like the first: I did not care for any of it. I didn't hate it but I was totally indiferrent to it!
August 18, 2023
Elixir of Strife did not disappoint.
The book kept me guessing as the story progressed. The tension was balanced perfectly by the quick wit and snark I’ve come to expect from this author. Who *doesn’t* want to read a book with lines like this?: “We weren’t cruciferous vegetables, for fuck’s sake. No one steamed Maximilian Drake and got away with it.” The romance aspect progresses naturally and is handled maturely, which is a breath of fresh air in fantasy of any kind these days.
As an aside, I like the descriptions of Californian weather this author uses (even for made up locales). As a native Californian, it reminds me of home.
The book kept me guessing as the story progressed. The tension was balanced perfectly by the quick wit and snark I’ve come to expect from this author. Who *doesn’t* want to read a book with lines like this?: “We weren’t cruciferous vegetables, for fuck’s sake. No one steamed Maximilian Drake and got away with it.” The romance aspect progresses naturally and is handled maturely, which is a breath of fresh air in fantasy of any kind these days.
As an aside, I like the descriptions of Californian weather this author uses (even for made up locales). As a native Californian, it reminds me of home.
August 24, 2024
Second in series (Stolen Hearts), must be read in order. Paranormal urban fantasy. Established couple. Found family. Dual POV. A new job assignment (ahem heist) from the Jade Spider, and of course Leon and Max are ready to sign up. What seems to be a straightforward find introduces Leon and Max to some new interesting clients, but someone else is in the hunt, and Leon and Max have to fend off their rival but also a manipulative family member and some other problems from their past. The relationship between Leon and Max is building and becoming more than just work partners as they share more about their powers, their working together now is pretty effortless and familiar. Max is more schmoopy with Leon which is sweet, and Leon loves it. Plenty of action, steamy times, and friends helping them out, this was a fun adventure to read. Every time Leon and Max interact makes me smile, their banter and caring and absolute attraction is all the swoon. Loving this series.
April 8, 2025
More magic and sarcastic quips from this great pair, Leon and Max had a fun start in the last book now things are looking a bit more domestic and also a bit more dangerous, fun continuation on the series, I like the new dragon lore introduced and the mystery though out the story. the main character and all the friend make a fun bunch and is a fun story overall.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews