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Arcane Hearts #5
Hand of Glory
Glamor, glitter, and gold.
Jackson Pryde and the great guilds of the Black Market are recovering in the aftermath of the fae attacks. With Xander Wright at his side, Jackson finds the strength and spellpower to rebuild.
Yet the fae keep coming, infiltrating under cover of illusions and glamor. And then there’s the upcoming Grayhaven gala, a gathering that’s sure to attract their destructive appetites.
Whispers speak of a strange and powerful candle, one that will help Jackson find the source of the fae and stop their attacks forever. Where are the fae coming from? Who is sending them to spread chaos?
And most important of all: where will Jackson find the time and courage to propose?
Hand of Glory is a 77,000-word M/M urban fantasy romance with a HFN ending. Join a fast-talking artificer and a snarky sorcerer, childhood friends who become bitter enemies, then lovers, as they explore a world filled with strange flora, mythical fauna, and magical murders. If you like your urban fantasy with humor, horror, and a whole lot of heart, you’ve come to the right place. Experience Hand of Glory today.
Jackson Pryde and the great guilds of the Black Market are recovering in the aftermath of the fae attacks. With Xander Wright at his side, Jackson finds the strength and spellpower to rebuild.
Yet the fae keep coming, infiltrating under cover of illusions and glamor. And then there’s the upcoming Grayhaven gala, a gathering that’s sure to attract their destructive appetites.
Whispers speak of a strange and powerful candle, one that will help Jackson find the source of the fae and stop their attacks forever. Where are the fae coming from? Who is sending them to spread chaos?
And most important of all: where will Jackson find the time and courage to propose?
Hand of Glory is a 77,000-word M/M urban fantasy romance with a HFN ending. Join a fast-talking artificer and a snarky sorcerer, childhood friends who become bitter enemies, then lovers, as they explore a world filled with strange flora, mythical fauna, and magical murders. If you like your urban fantasy with humor, horror, and a whole lot of heart, you’ve come to the right place. Experience Hand of Glory today.
281 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 25, 2022
49 people are currently reading
91 people want to read
About the author
Nazri Noor
52 books397 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 - 27 of 27 reviews
July 19, 2023
3.5 stars for the story, 5 for the narration
Nazri Noor's Arcane Hearts series continues to be highly imaginative and entertaining, but after the last instalment - which was a real highlight - this one feels a little bit... flabby around the middle by comparision. There are a couple of great set-pieces and an epic showdown, but there's not a lot of progression of the main plot arc here and most of the book is taken up with Jackson mooning over how much he loves Xander and obsessing over finding the right ring and situation to propose. There's a bit more steam in this one, as well - and I'm finding that sometimes it's getting just a leetle bit OTT - not because of the number of sex scenes, but because the language can be a bit... cringey.
I enjoyed meeting Zephyr again, and Lore getting to be a badass - and Reza FINALLY gets a clue! (I wish his romance with Nico was more of an on-page subplot - there's great potential there but I suspect it's going to be all 'oh, they're a couple now' by the time we see them again.)
Zachary Johnson is going great guns in this series, and delivers another wonderfully energetic performance with a wide variety of vocal characterisations - including some seriously creepy fae voices.
It's a fun listen, but could have lost the Flint sub-plot and done with a little tightening up.
Nazri Noor's Arcane Hearts series continues to be highly imaginative and entertaining, but after the last instalment - which was a real highlight - this one feels a little bit... flabby around the middle by comparision. There are a couple of great set-pieces and an epic showdown, but there's not a lot of progression of the main plot arc here and most of the book is taken up with Jackson mooning over how much he loves Xander and obsessing over finding the right ring and situation to propose. There's a bit more steam in this one, as well - and I'm finding that sometimes it's getting just a leetle bit OTT - not because of the number of sex scenes, but because the language can be a bit... cringey.
I enjoyed meeting Zephyr again, and Lore getting to be a badass - and Reza FINALLY gets a clue! (I wish his romance with Nico was more of an on-page subplot - there's great potential there but I suspect it's going to be all 'oh, they're a couple now' by the time we see them again.)
Zachary Johnson is going great guns in this series, and delivers another wonderfully energetic performance with a wide variety of vocal characterisations - including some seriously creepy fae voices.
It's a fun listen, but could have lost the Flint sub-plot and done with a little tightening up.
April 7, 2022
The Good Stuffs
Jackson . Also it seemed that Reza finally realized that Niko was this gorgeous young man, and they could be great couple *grin*
The Not So Good Stuffs
Yeah, fae making havoc. But it begins to be very repetitive without actual progress about their plan. It's moving veeeeeryyyyy slowly this arc :(
Jackson . Also it seemed that Reza finally realized that Niko was this gorgeous young man, and they could be great couple *grin*
The Not So Good Stuffs
Yeah, fae making havoc. But it begins to be very repetitive without actual progress about their plan. It's moving veeeeeryyyyy slowly this arc :(
March 25, 2022
"Lord have mercy!" This story of Jackson and Xander was excellent. Jackson is working at rebuilding his families Guild back to his reigning glory. His real goal though is to have a ring made for Xander and ask him to marry him. It takes precedence over everything in his life. Xander is with him all the way in getting the building back to its usefulness not knowing what Jackson really wants with the money. They both are picking up jobs around the Black Market to get money for the construction. Sedgewick has hired them to get beeswax from the Candle Guilds hives. Sedgewick dreams of making a "Hand of Glory" in order to find the portals the fae are coming through, but in the meantime he has candles to destroy the delusions the fae hide behind. The Grayhaven School is having it's gala much to the Seer's, Xander's and Jackson's distress. Xander wants both Jackson and himself to look great so they turn to Beatrice for making them shine. Beatrice locates a ring maker from the Jewelry and Gem Guild to make Jackson his ring and that's where the fun begins. Jackson does everything but stand on his head, enlisting Zyphyr even, and sneaking around to keep his secret hidden from Xander. Danger also is in the wings as the fae are planning an attack and they still don't know how the fae are getting into the Black Market without being seen. Will Sedgewick accomplish his dream candle in order help out finding their portals before it's too late? Danger lurks at every turn and the two heroes have to be on their toes as well as their friends to save the Market and the world from the fae invasions. Lore, Jackson's A1 is becoming more mature and the A2 is slowly being re-energized. A happy HFN faces the reader and we are once again entertained with a "can't put the down" story. Great read.
April 11, 2022
Highly Imaginative and incredibly entertaining
Rating: 4.75🌈
Hand of Glory is the penultimate book in Nazri Noor’s fantastic Arcane Hearts fantasy series. I’ve been sitting here thinking about the story, all the incredibly imaginative elements, and wide range of engaging characters that Hand of Glory alone showcases.
It’s made me realize, not for the first time, how limiting our rating system is. Especially for novel’s outside the contemporary spectrum. I wish I could have a list for rating some truly outstanding aspects of fantasy/Other storytelling. And now for Best IA Characters, Best Use of Loki, Best Special Effects, Best Universe…you get my drift. Just too limited.
Like other marvelous authors of fantasy or genres of fiction that allows a writer create unique universes, build cultures and characters of their own, Noor has built something spectacular with his Arcane Hearts series. And with each new installment, he expands and exponentially gives his readers even more character growth , new imaginative elements and key new characters to think about as the series arc moves forward.
Bees. Candles. Wax. All in a way I’ve never thought about before. I loved that! A major element here . It also brings more depth to a character who’s part of the found family that Jackson Pryde and Xander Wright have been bringing together, friends from the the various Guilds, helping to rebuild the artificers guild hall. Each person within their circle is getting more layers to their personalities and more powerful.
Which is to be expected, as after the disastrous battle in the Black Market, and at the Ball, the new dangers they face from the purple crystal and the Fae becomes even more perilous.
What I look forward to in these stories, is, in between all the battles, the investigations, the sexy scenes, the fantastical mythology lie the heartwarming ones. The small bits , the tiny moments when Jackson, often when Xander is present, is reunited with his deceased parents, through the remarkable capabilities of Lore and his parents foresight to put a series of memories inside Lore for Jackson, to access just when he needs them. It’s unbelievably poignant and emotional.
It’s just one more amazing aspect of this story that makes me happy just when I know everything will be falling apart fast in the next novel. A moment to treasure.
Just like this series. And the bees.
I’m highly recommending this novel and series. Read them in the order they are written for story and characters relationships development.
I’ve listed them below. Now to wait until July for A Clap of Thunder to be released!
Arcane Hearts series, 6 of 6 books:
- [x] A Touch of Fever #1
- [x] A Stroke of Brilliance #2
- [x] An Iron Fist #3
- [x] A Velvet Glove #4
- [x] Hand of Glory #5
- [ ] A Clap of Thunder #6 - July 29, 2022 (finale)
Rating: 4.75🌈
Hand of Glory is the penultimate book in Nazri Noor’s fantastic Arcane Hearts fantasy series. I’ve been sitting here thinking about the story, all the incredibly imaginative elements, and wide range of engaging characters that Hand of Glory alone showcases.
It’s made me realize, not for the first time, how limiting our rating system is. Especially for novel’s outside the contemporary spectrum. I wish I could have a list for rating some truly outstanding aspects of fantasy/Other storytelling. And now for Best IA Characters, Best Use of Loki, Best Special Effects, Best Universe…you get my drift. Just too limited.
Like other marvelous authors of fantasy or genres of fiction that allows a writer create unique universes, build cultures and characters of their own, Noor has built something spectacular with his Arcane Hearts series. And with each new installment, he expands and exponentially gives his readers even more character growth , new imaginative elements and key new characters to think about as the series arc moves forward.
Bees. Candles. Wax. All in a way I’ve never thought about before. I loved that! A major element here . It also brings more depth to a character who’s part of the found family that Jackson Pryde and Xander Wright have been bringing together, friends from the the various Guilds, helping to rebuild the artificers guild hall. Each person within their circle is getting more layers to their personalities and more powerful.
Which is to be expected, as after the disastrous battle in the Black Market, and at the Ball, the new dangers they face from the purple crystal and the Fae becomes even more perilous.
What I look forward to in these stories, is, in between all the battles, the investigations, the sexy scenes, the fantastical mythology lie the heartwarming ones. The small bits , the tiny moments when Jackson, often when Xander is present, is reunited with his deceased parents, through the remarkable capabilities of Lore and his parents foresight to put a series of memories inside Lore for Jackson, to access just when he needs them. It’s unbelievably poignant and emotional.
It’s just one more amazing aspect of this story that makes me happy just when I know everything will be falling apart fast in the next novel. A moment to treasure.
Just like this series. And the bees.
I’m highly recommending this novel and series. Read them in the order they are written for story and characters relationships development.
I’ve listed them below. Now to wait until July for A Clap of Thunder to be released!
Arcane Hearts series, 6 of 6 books:
- [x] A Touch of Fever #1
- [x] A Stroke of Brilliance #2
- [x] An Iron Fist #3
- [x] A Velvet Glove #4
- [x] Hand of Glory #5
- [ ] A Clap of Thunder #6 - July 29, 2022 (finale)
March 24, 2022
Artificer Jackson Pryde and his boyfriend Xander Wright and the great guilds on the Black Market are finding the strength and spell power to rebuild in the aftermath of the fae attacks. But the fae keeps on coming using illusion and glamour to infiltrate. The upcoming Greyhaven Gala seems to be a perfect opportunity to attract them. Hearing whispers of a strange and powerful candle that will help Jackson to find the fae source he does his best to work out what he needs to complete that task. Jackson is also building up the courage to move on to the next phase in his relationship with Xander - he just needs to find the time!
I loved this book which made some progress on what was causing the fae to be so bold and attack as well as include some adventures for Jackson and Xander to do what they do best and work with kindness. I loved the descriptions of the events and their impact on the two of them which meant it was as if I was there. I also loved the actions of some of the guild masters and feel that it will be enough to make almost all of Jackson's dreams come true. Lore was fantastic as normal. Easy to read and understand.
I loved this book which made some progress on what was causing the fae to be so bold and attack as well as include some adventures for Jackson and Xander to do what they do best and work with kindness. I loved the descriptions of the events and their impact on the two of them which meant it was as if I was there. I also loved the actions of some of the guild masters and feel that it will be enough to make almost all of Jackson's dreams come true. Lore was fantastic as normal. Easy to read and understand.
March 25, 2022
Nazri Noor’s Hand of Glory is Book 5 in the Arcane Hearts series. Jackson and Xander are just so sweet together and Jackson is ready for a permanent commitment, but first there are a few things to take care of; like the fae. Just who is behind all of this?
The Guilds are finally working together to help protect the Black Market and are producing some amazing magical items like the glamor-glow candle. They are even helping Jackson.
And Madame Cathee has decided that a big gala at Grayhaven is just what everyone needs. What could possibly go wrong?
Lore is still a favorite character of mine and we get to learn more about some secondary characters, like Lobelia and Flint; especially as some learn to deal with issues surrounding tolerance.
I think that my favorite scene is with Hecate, but that is probably not surprising when dealing with the goddess of magic. And there is a scene with one of my favorite pieces of music, Waltz of the Flowers.
To sum things up, I just love reading Nazri Noor’s books and am really looking forward to the next book. Great plots. Relatable characters. You will love this book too!
The Guilds are finally working together to help protect the Black Market and are producing some amazing magical items like the glamor-glow candle. They are even helping Jackson.
And Madame Cathee has decided that a big gala at Grayhaven is just what everyone needs. What could possibly go wrong?
Lore is still a favorite character of mine and we get to learn more about some secondary characters, like Lobelia and Flint; especially as some learn to deal with issues surrounding tolerance.
I think that my favorite scene is with Hecate, but that is probably not surprising when dealing with the goddess of magic. And there is a scene with one of my favorite pieces of music, Waltz of the Flowers.
To sum things up, I just love reading Nazri Noor’s books and am really looking forward to the next book. Great plots. Relatable characters. You will love this book too!
October 14, 2023
Moving, moving, always moving forward
So Noor has definitely crafted a “power-couple” here, and they shine BRIGHTLY!
There are a lot of small steps in this installment, many of them seem almost like independent short stories. However, they hang from and rest upon each other in an intricate way that nonetheless leaves this feeling like a unified whole.
Now despite that, not a lot really happens until the final pages of the book. But each of these steps is integral to the story’s progression, and all of it culminates in the final chapters with a battle, and a very tender moment that I am sure most readers have been waiting for, including me.
It’s also refreshing and validating to see that Noor has continued to fulfill the promise of his writing and has not back, slipped into old habits. There weren’t as many memorable quotes from this book, but neither was it a long littany of “telling” us rather than “showing” us.
Finally, the explicit sex scenes are becoming less “distracting,“ as they now provide a vehicle for expressing the characters true love for one another, rather than seeming merely gratuitous.
All in all, I recommend it heartily.
So Noor has definitely crafted a “power-couple” here, and they shine BRIGHTLY!
There are a lot of small steps in this installment, many of them seem almost like independent short stories. However, they hang from and rest upon each other in an intricate way that nonetheless leaves this feeling like a unified whole.
Now despite that, not a lot really happens until the final pages of the book. But each of these steps is integral to the story’s progression, and all of it culminates in the final chapters with a battle, and a very tender moment that I am sure most readers have been waiting for, including me.
It’s also refreshing and validating to see that Noor has continued to fulfill the promise of his writing and has not back, slipped into old habits. There weren’t as many memorable quotes from this book, but neither was it a long littany of “telling” us rather than “showing” us.
Finally, the explicit sex scenes are becoming less “distracting,“ as they now provide a vehicle for expressing the characters true love for one another, rather than seeming merely gratuitous.
All in all, I recommend it heartily.
February 19, 2023
Hand of Glory is the fifth book in the Arcane Hearts series. This is an ongoing series and should be read in order otherwise you’ll be lost.
The moment I have been waiting for finally happens! I was so giddy throughout this book waiting for the big question, but the author kept us on our toes. I won’t spoil it, but overall, it thought it was done with just the right amount of sass and sweetness. Sedgewick was so impressive in this book. He’s been this sweet young guy who kind of faded to the background in the other books, but Sedgewick has a spine of steel. This entire book – from the interaction with Hecate (that was a creepy ceremony, the Grayhaven school dance, and even the fascinating building process of Jackson’s guild – was fantastic. I got sucked into the storyline and enjoyed every moment of it.
The audiobook was narrated by Zachary Johnson who does a great job. Zachary performed this book with skill and energy. The voices were spot on and the action scenes were engrossing. I loved every moment of it.
The moment I have been waiting for finally happens! I was so giddy throughout this book waiting for the big question, but the author kept us on our toes. I won’t spoil it, but overall, it thought it was done with just the right amount of sass and sweetness. Sedgewick was so impressive in this book. He’s been this sweet young guy who kind of faded to the background in the other books, but Sedgewick has a spine of steel. This entire book – from the interaction with Hecate (that was a creepy ceremony, the Grayhaven school dance, and even the fascinating building process of Jackson’s guild – was fantastic. I got sucked into the storyline and enjoyed every moment of it.
The audiobook was narrated by Zachary Johnson who does a great job. Zachary performed this book with skill and energy. The voices were spot on and the action scenes were engrossing. I loved every moment of it.
April 2, 2022
After the enforced short break I had to take from this series while awaiting the release of book five, I was glad to be back for another ride with Jackson, Xander, and their ever expanding group of friends and acquaintances. With various guild masters stepping up to help, Jackson's dream of rebuilding the Halls of Making finally begins to take shape. Fae infiltrators keep both the Black Market and SEER on their toes though, and the upcoming Grayhaven gala is bound to attract trouble in these fraught times. A new guild is introduced, Sedgewick finally gets his turn to shine, Reza finally gets a clue regarding romantic matters (about time!), and amidst all the other chaos, Jackson is devoting considerable energy to acquiring the perfect ring and staging the perfect proposal... there is, as usual, a lot going on, and all of it once again proved to be wildly entertaining. Now, what do you mean I have to wait months for book six?
September 23, 2023
I'm enjoying this series, and I'm glad there are 7 books out so that I can binge read them all at once. I'm a fan of fantasy books with great characters, and these books definitely have that.
Jackson can be a loud, boisterous, proud, and loud guy, but it still doesn't hide the courage and kindness in his heart. I love the growth that Xander has made through the series, especially after he got out of the clutches of his horrible parents. The two of them are opposite, but oh so complimentary. I love how their "magical" talents work so well together; it's quite clever.
The secondary characters add so much to the stories. Jackson and Xander's core group of friends continues to grow with each book. I love how Jackson has led the healing needed between all the guilds and how that has worked for the benefit of all against the fae.
Two more books to go, and I'm happy with that.
Jackson can be a loud, boisterous, proud, and loud guy, but it still doesn't hide the courage and kindness in his heart. I love the growth that Xander has made through the series, especially after he got out of the clutches of his horrible parents. The two of them are opposite, but oh so complimentary. I love how their "magical" talents work so well together; it's quite clever.
The secondary characters add so much to the stories. Jackson and Xander's core group of friends continues to grow with each book. I love how Jackson has led the healing needed between all the guilds and how that has worked for the benefit of all against the fae.
Two more books to go, and I'm happy with that.
February 14, 2023
Usually I find as I read through a series the books get a little less captivating as the story goes on but it is the exact opposite with the Arcane Hearts series. There isn’t much I can say without spoilers but it was really cool seeing how this series and another intersects. I can’t wait to see what becomes of that. I also absolutely LOVE that this author doesn’t end everything on a cliff hanger. So far all the books I’ve read by him end in a way that still makes you excited to read the next book but thoroughly wrapping up that chapter of the story. The end of this book had me in this-is-so-adorable-I’m-going-to-die tears by the time it was all told. I am almost sad to start book 6 knowing that I’ll have to wait for book seven.
March 28, 2022
Things are heating up. The board is set and the future is beginning to be realized.
This next installment does not disappoint, absurd jokes, strong friendship, and all of the ridiculous shut you could ever want.
This series really has become a staple, and for good reason.
Some have wrongly described it as "kitschy" and for those people I present two middle fingers. If you have gotten this far into the series then you have already succumbed to the blissfully masterful chaos that is this series. Who doesn't love a story about lightly damaged magical and hirny dorks? 💜
100 out of 10. I love everything about this book including the cringe.
This next installment does not disappoint, absurd jokes, strong friendship, and all of the ridiculous shut you could ever want.
This series really has become a staple, and for good reason.
Some have wrongly described it as "kitschy" and for those people I present two middle fingers. If you have gotten this far into the series then you have already succumbed to the blissfully masterful chaos that is this series. Who doesn't love a story about lightly damaged magical and hirny dorks? 💜
100 out of 10. I love everything about this book including the cringe.
May 4, 2022
Interesting mix of action, adventure, myth and magic.
I really enjoyed a previous series by this author but got turned off at the end of the series when then hero decided he wanted to semi-dump his boyfriend and sleep with someone else. I watch all those true crime shows and open relationships always end with someone being buried in a basement. But, nonetheless, I gave this series a chance and it has been great so far and I plan to read everything I have missed by this author because the books are always fun and entertaining.
I really enjoyed a previous series by this author but got turned off at the end of the series when then hero decided he wanted to semi-dump his boyfriend and sleep with someone else. I watch all those true crime shows and open relationships always end with someone being buried in a basement. But, nonetheless, I gave this series a chance and it has been great so far and I plan to read everything I have missed by this author because the books are always fun and entertaining.
June 29, 2022
Jackson and Xander continue to fight off fae incursions with the Guilds helping as they're able. But Grayhaven is hosting a gala, which will be sure to draw out a fae attack. Jackson and Xander just have to save the world... again.
All the hallmarks that I look for are here: excellent pacing, fantastic world-building, excellent character development, and a lot of sarcasm!
I particularly liked the bees in this installment, and I can't wait to see what comes next!
I received a copy of this novel via the author.
All the hallmarks that I look for are here: excellent pacing, fantastic world-building, excellent character development, and a lot of sarcasm!
I particularly liked the bees in this installment, and I can't wait to see what comes next!
I received a copy of this novel via the author.
September 7, 2025
Hand of Glory pushes the series forward by throwing Jackson Pryde and Xander Wright into Grayhaven, an academy where magic is drilled like combat and students are trained as if for war. Noor uses the contrast between Grayhaven’s rigid, militaristic order and the duo’s chaotic, improvisational style to heighten both tension and chemistry. The romance glows brighter against that backdrop, balancing playful banter with moments of true emotional weight. It’s a sharp, dynamic installment that blends heart, heat, and high-stakes magic.
February 23, 2023
Too much sex, not enough story
The characters are likeable, the story line (when you can find it) is enjoyable, but it's virtually hidden under an ever increasing avalanche of sexual innuendo, attraction, joking, pining, hooking up, etc that ultimately just becomes boringly repetitive and I start flipping through frustratedly trying to find when the next bit of story is actually going to happen.
The characters are likeable, the story line (when you can find it) is enjoyable, but it's virtually hidden under an ever increasing avalanche of sexual innuendo, attraction, joking, pining, hooking up, etc that ultimately just becomes boringly repetitive and I start flipping through frustratedly trying to find when the next bit of story is actually going to happen.
March 27, 2022
oh my gods!!!!!
Could not put this down! From start to finish a masterpiece. I love love love Jackson and Xander. They are perfect together. Their relationship is real and genuine. Could not keep myself from smiling the entire last chapter. Brilliant story from a brilliant author. Bravo Nazri!!!!
Could not put this down! From start to finish a masterpiece. I love love love Jackson and Xander. They are perfect together. Their relationship is real and genuine. Could not keep myself from smiling the entire last chapter. Brilliant story from a brilliant author. Bravo Nazri!!!!
January 2, 2023
Jackson and Xander continue to build their lives together, forging friendships and discovering they have more allies than they realized. There are of course more secrets. More battles fought. Sacrifices made as they continue to rebuild the guild and attempt to stop the fae. The story is well paced and a great continuation of the series.
Zachary Johnson is an outstanding voice actor and excels in this genre. He has immense range and distinct character voices that are so well suited to this series.
Zachary Johnson is an outstanding voice actor and excels in this genre. He has immense range and distinct character voices that are so well suited to this series.
September 30, 2022
Hand of Glory
What an intense ride this book was! All the action, love, magic and bad guys getting their butts kicked, you know, the usual brilliant writing from Nazri Noor! This was an incredible addition to the series!! Highly Recommended
What an intense ride this book was! All the action, love, magic and bad guys getting their butts kicked, you know, the usual brilliant writing from Nazri Noor! This was an incredible addition to the series!! Highly Recommended
March 25, 2022
I love it!
I wish there more gay action fantasy romance like this. All around fun book, I just wish we get some short stories of the side character and their relationships.
I wish there more gay action fantasy romance like this. All around fun book, I just wish we get some short stories of the side character and their relationships.
January 9, 2023
3.5 Stars
I loved seeing my boys again but I wish the plot had had a stronger presence throughout the book, but this was great for character ... and smut :D
I loved seeing my boys again but I wish the plot had had a stronger presence throughout the book, but this was great for character ... and smut :D
January 24, 2023
This means war
February 23, 2023
i've really enjoyed this series so far. i like how each story builds introducing new characters, but not in a way that feels forced or overwhelming. there is magic, mystery, romance, and spice.
July 30, 2024
Enjoyable story that is well written with likeable characters and good world building.
April 7, 2024
Narrated by Zachary Johnson A
Glamor, glitter, and gold.
Jackson Pryde and the great guilds of the Black Market are recovering in the aftermath of the fae attacks. With Xander Wright at his side, Jackson finds the strength and spellpower to rebuild.
Yet the fae keep coming, infiltrating under cover of illusions and glamor. And then there’s the upcoming Grayhaven gala, a gathering that’s sure to attract their destructive appetites.
Whispers speak of a strange and powerful candle, one that will help Jackson find the source of the fae and stop their attacks forever. Where are the fae coming from? Who is sending them to spread chaos?
And most important of all: where will Jackson find the time and courage to propose?
I’ve listened to all the Arcane Hearts books and they are clever, funny, and action-packed. Hand of Glory is definitely funny, sometimes clever, and has some action, but not much actual plot. In short, this book seems to be suffering a bit from middle-itis. While there’s talk of the fae and how to defeat them, there’s not much forward momentum and only one real action scene related to it. This feels more meandering and less focused than the previous books. At one point a new character is introduced who then has an adventure with Jackson. It’s entertaining, but it feels like a short story dropped into the middle of the book. What we do get is a lot of Jackson thinking about his love for Zander, plus several sex scenes in more-than-usual detail, which I’m still not sure fits with these stories.
As always, Zachary Johnson does an excellent job with the narration. He’s been amazingly consistent in voicing the large cast of characters and is equally adept at infusing his narration with realism and life.
I do hope the next book gets back on track and this isn’t a case of stretching the story arc to fill an 8-book series when 6 books would have worked.
Glamor, glitter, and gold.
Jackson Pryde and the great guilds of the Black Market are recovering in the aftermath of the fae attacks. With Xander Wright at his side, Jackson finds the strength and spellpower to rebuild.
Yet the fae keep coming, infiltrating under cover of illusions and glamor. And then there’s the upcoming Grayhaven gala, a gathering that’s sure to attract their destructive appetites.
Whispers speak of a strange and powerful candle, one that will help Jackson find the source of the fae and stop their attacks forever. Where are the fae coming from? Who is sending them to spread chaos?
And most important of all: where will Jackson find the time and courage to propose?
I’ve listened to all the Arcane Hearts books and they are clever, funny, and action-packed. Hand of Glory is definitely funny, sometimes clever, and has some action, but not much actual plot. In short, this book seems to be suffering a bit from middle-itis. While there’s talk of the fae and how to defeat them, there’s not much forward momentum and only one real action scene related to it. This feels more meandering and less focused than the previous books. At one point a new character is introduced who then has an adventure with Jackson. It’s entertaining, but it feels like a short story dropped into the middle of the book. What we do get is a lot of Jackson thinking about his love for Zander, plus several sex scenes in more-than-usual detail, which I’m still not sure fits with these stories.
As always, Zachary Johnson does an excellent job with the narration. He’s been amazingly consistent in voicing the large cast of characters and is equally adept at infusing his narration with realism and life.
I do hope the next book gets back on track and this isn’t a case of stretching the story arc to fill an 8-book series when 6 books would have worked.
November 4, 2023
- 2nd: 04/11/2023
3,25/5
A quick reread of book 5 and 6 so I can dip into book 7.
- 1st: 25/12/2022
3,5/5
As good as the previous one. Adventure, action, love, relatable characters, strong friendship and interesting plot.
3,25/5
A quick reread of book 5 and 6 so I can dip into book 7.
- 1st: 25/12/2022
3,5/5
As good as the previous one. Adventure, action, love, relatable characters, strong friendship and interesting plot.
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