An Emporium of Hearts

Infernal War Saga #0.5

by Hailey Turner

To forget and live, or to live and fight?

THE MARSHAL. Melvin Kaur is a nobleman, a magician, and a high-ranking cog in the Clockwork Brigade working out of Istal. His well-established spot in high society is a grand cover for the smuggling his family oversees. But when a handoff goes wrong, and Melvin is forced to flee through the night with his charges, he finds unexpected help from an endearing man in the unlikeliest of places.

THE TOY MAKER. Ezra Wren is trying to keep his family’s business in the black and the banks at bay, but the numbers in his ledger do not lie. Debt bondage is a very real threat he will soon have to face, and that was before a bloodied nobleman broke into his toy shop in the dead of night. Despite the risk, Ezra can’t turn away those in need, and finds himself saying yes to a nobleman’s plea and losing his heart in the process when he can ill afford to lose anything.

Previously released through Prolific Works in 2022. No changes to the text have been made.

Genres: Fantasy, M M Romance, Steampunk, Romance, Magic, Audiobook, Novella

76 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2022

About the author

Hailey Turner is a big city girl who likes to spoil her cats rotten. She writes science fiction and fantasy with lots of action, epic plots, and romantic relationships that satisfy the heart. Hailey lives in sunny California when she isn’t adding stamps to her passport.

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Reviews

[Achim · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hailey Turner comes right to the point and shows her new world as the dark, oppressive and iniquitous society it is. Looming debt slavery for the common people made worse by vicious carelessness of the nobility but obviously it's only one country where that kind of slavery is an integral part of its economy, so there are also people trying to free those slaves by smuggling them over the border.

Ezra, due to his fathers addictions, is one of those guys with that sword of Damocles hanging above him. It was terrible to watch him being subdued at the fair and the forlornness of his struggle to get out of his red numbers. So his character shines all the more when he suddenly is faced by an escape attempt going nearly going wrong. It surely helps how Melvin, the guy who flees into Ezra's shop with 2 indebted children in tow, is distracting the debt collectors.

Of course it's only a teaser for Ms. Turner's new series, so it's short and the romance after the escape attempt is fast without much character development. So as a full-flexed story it's lacking in parts but the world building is top-notch, the character have everything I like to read and it's enough to know come May I'm going to find a reading highlight of 2022 waiting for me.

[Ben Howard · Rating 4 out of 5]

An Emporium of Hearts is a great intro to this world. In this short story we get a rundown of the politics of the country Daijal; it's use and profit off of Debt Slaves, and the rebellion trying to undermine it. All the while we get a great romance between Melvin, a member of the rebellion and Ezra, a man trying to keep his family business afloat and away from the threat of debt bondage.

There was so much packed into this short, it was really well done and I can't wait to sink my teeth into the 646 page beast that is book 1 in this series.

[Layla · Rating 4 out of 5]

Man I cannot WAIT for this series.

Thei is gonna be a steam-punk fantasy series which will be a forst for me.
I'm excited to see what Hailey has instore for us in this series.

What I'm excited about is that most of the world building happened in this novella, plus the introduction of the two MCs.

So book 1 will pick up from there I think.

[Alex (HEABookNerd) · Rating 4 out of 5]

AN EMPORIUM OF HEARTS was an intriguing introduction to the INFERNAL WAR SAGA and I'm always so impressed with the complexity of world-building in Turner's books.

Ezra and Melvin were a little bare bones in characterization but it's a novella so I expect that. They were really sweet together though and they fell hard and fast.

Add in a touch of political intrigue, some smuggling for a noble cause, and the "kiss me to hide our crime" trope, and I was all set.

Content Warning: debt slavery

[Claudia · Rating 5 out of 5]

So, I love Hailey Turner ... and I love the world she builds with this series.
So, I think I may be a bit biased ... but this story was amazing, and this may be one of only a few times, that a novella gets 5 stars from me.

Ezra and Marvin are so different but fit perennial together. I would have loved a full novel, or at least another 80 to 100 pages with them, but even thoit was short, it was perfectly done

I loved the narration, but that also was not real a surprise as the narration was done by Gary Furlong, one of my favourite narrators.

All in all, it is a great addition to the Infernal war Saga and I hope we see more of these two, during part 2 and 3

[Aimee Nicole Walker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved!!

[thosemeddlingkids · Rating 3 out of 5]

A quick novella, this managed to include quite a bit of plot backstory.

I find the "I'm being chased and must make out with you to create a plausible backstory!" trope to be a great way to add in both forced proximity and gloss over any tip toeing into the romance.

A toy maker and magician nobleman is a unique set of roles the leads have, and there's a big emphasis on debt slavery in this.

The narration was enjoyable, but there was a couple audio static issues I found in the very beginning, which cleared up after the first chapter.

Audio ARC provided by GRR.

[Ash🍉 · Rating 3 out of 5]

4/5 stars audiobook
3.5/5 stars story

Thanks to GRR for the audiobook arc ❤️

This was an interesting start to a series! There is a lot of world building in it, even for a short story, but it wasn’t too overwhelming. Gary Furlong is the narrator and does a good job, although I miss hearing his Australian accent 😂

Ezra is a toy maker who runs his family shop which sells clockwork items, and Melvin is a nobleman, and magician, who is also working for the “Clockwork Brigade” in smuggling people overseas. These two meet when one of Melvins jobs goes wrong and he has to take shelter in a store, which just so happens to be Ezra’s.

Things move quiet quickly after that which is understandable since this is a very short story, but it doesn’t feel forced either.

There was a lot of information mentioned about the world, but the author just told us enough so that we’d understand what was going on whilst leaving a bit of mystery so that we’d want to know more.

This is a promising start to a series and definitely has be intrigued for what will come next.

[DLB2572 · Rating 4 out of 5]

*Audiobook Review*
I enjoyed reading this quick story and the audiobook just added to the enjoyment. It really came to life with the wonderful narration by Gary Furlong.

I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion

[Cadiva · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read when it was part of an anthology. Lovely prequel for the Infernal War Saga and gives some background to the Clockwork Brigade underground rebellion organisation.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved it!
It's a wonderful addition to the series Q_Q <3

[Ella · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mysig liten novell om Ezra och Melvin!

[ButtonsMom2003 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Audiobook Review:
Overall – 5
Performance – 5
Story – 5

Short but really good.

I’m not at all familiar with the world that this short audiobook is part of but that didn’t matter. This story totally stands alone and I really enjoyed listening to it. It has a Steampunk feel to it, with isn’t really my favorite genre, but this story held my attention. Gary Furlong is on my list of favorite audiobook performers and he does a great job with this one.

A complimentary copy of this audiobook was provided to me at my request; my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author and/or narrator.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I decided to dip into this short story because I'm listening to the first book and Ezra and Melvin were inserted as characters. The novella functioned as a really good brief on a few of the most important points in the actual book - debt slaves and cogs (and smuggling). Ezra and Melvin were also sweet as characters.

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just me in my M/M romance era feat Hailey Turner.
This was short and sweet, and a great intro into the world of Daijal. I really wish that I had read this as a prequel before starting Prince's Poisoned Vow, but I nevertheless really enjoyed it!

[Tanner Lenz · Rating 5 out of 5]

A cute and sexy novella. This got me even more excited for The Emperor’s Bone Palace to come out. Ezra and Melvin better make an appearance or I’ll sue.

[Melissa Polk · Rating 5 out of 5]

An interesting introduction into the Infernal War Saga. I look forward to reading more.

[BevS · Rating 4 out of 5]

Freebie through Book Funnel last year.

[Ashley (Red-Haired Ash Reads) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Series: Infernal War Saga #0.5
Rating: 3 stars - I liked it

Melvin Kaur is a nobleman, a magician, and a high ranking cog in the Clockwork Brigade working out of Istal. His spot in high society is a great cover for the smuggling of debt slaves that his family oversees. When a handoff goes wrong, Melvin is forced to flee through the night with his charges but finds help in a toy maker.

This was a short but very interesting introduction to the Infernal War Saga world. I am very impressed by the worldbuilding presented, especially for how short this novella was. But, Turner always seems to do an amazing job with worldbuilding. I am very interested in learning more about this steampunk world filled with magic and debt slavery.

Melvin and Ezra were interesting characters, which is great since we are given just the bare bones of their lives and backstory. These two were extremely sweet and they fell hard and fast, which doesn’t surprise me in such a dangerous situation when emotions are high. I especially love that this had the microtrope “kiss me to hide the truth” because it's one I don’t run across enough.

Overall, this may be short but it was a great introduction to this unique world and features two great characters. I can’t wait to read more!

TW: debt slavery; gun violence;

[Kristel (hungryandhappy) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This prequel made me a thousand times more excited for the beginning of the series!! I need book 1 asap!!

Will we see Ezra and Melvin again?? I sure hope so!!

[Ink & Echo]

Very interesting ...
Onto the next *dive in*

[Ro {semi-hiatus} · Rating 4 out of 5]

melvin and ezra were so damn cute 🥹 my first time reading a novella like this and i am a fast fan.

[Bluebelle-the-Inquisitive (Catherine) · Rating 4 out of 5]

His stomach twisted at the thought the living machinery which made up the Clockwork Brigade was breaking again, that they’d lost another cog. — Melvin

Warnings: minor bullying, people smuggling

I like this. I like the world created. I like the plot and the way it flows. There are time skips. The world has some moments where it feels fleshed out others where I was left with questions. The characters are likeable enough. Ezra Wren's creative streak plays well against Melvin Kaur's chameleon skills and easy charm. Each has their own motivation that aren't made apparent readily. The idea of clockwork just works. It laces them together in the best possible way. It is a job for both. I will warm that some people may not want to engage with this, but there is an element of people smuggling, though in the ideal rather than abusive or exploitative way.

There is half a chapter of smut that just feels rushed and out of place. A kiss. More than one. A conversation. A fall into bed but the act not described would have fit much better. I know that some readers would complain if it was missing but it feels forced and out of character for Ezra. Honestly, we never know what kind of man Melvin is. In his position, a rogue would almost fit better. It's kinda implied by the conversation with Antin. This is my big complaint. I don't hate smut, if I don't like your writing or aren't up for it I'll skip it, but it needs to fit in and make sense. I really don't feel it does here.

Some quotes and comments
• "This is a short story set in my Infernal War Saga universe. The Prince's Poisoned Vow is available now." — This from the prologue. I just feel it is worth including here.
• "He ignored the other man’s stare as he decanted some excellent E’ridian whiskey into matching crystal-cut glasses." — Every culture has created three things. Bread. Booze. And blades. I like that in fantasy or scifi it is often a whisky. (Melvin)
• “As you can see, I’m a little busy, Antin,” Melvin said breathily. “What’s all this ruckus for?”
There was a heavy pause before whoever Antin was sighed irritably. “Really, Melvin? Slumming it with merchants now?”
“You know I’ve never cared about status when pleasure is in the mix. That’s never been an issue in Helia.”
“We’re in Istal.”
“He does have excellent tools of the trade, if you were wondering.”
“And you needed to see them at this hour?” Melvin shrugged but otherwise didn’t move, though his breathing came a little fast, easily explained away by their predicament. “It is the Annual Spectacular Maker’s Fair this week. He’s been busy with work. We’d be busy with other things if you’d kindly leave.”
The pointed dismissal in his tone was all arrogance, as if Melvin expected to be obeyed simply because he was noble born. And that—miraculously—seemed to be the case, Ezra realized, because a noble’s word would always carry more weight than his own. — I love this whole exchange. It is a total powerplay. It shows a whole side of Melvin that he doesn't need or want to show to Ezra. (Melvin and Antin, as seen by Ezra)
• The thought that someone could walk in and find the lord of the house bent over the desk and getting very thoroughly fucked made Ezra bite his lip, a shiver racing through his body. It didn’t make him stop, though—if anything, the idea spurred him on. — Oh man. Melvin is a bottom. Or at least wants to be for Ezra and Ezra is on a bit of a power trip. Seems he may have a side of exhibitionism in there. And you know what I'm totally here for it. (Melvin)

The map was kinda useless for this one. 80p and all set in the same city. A world map is kinda superfluous at that point. While the map is superfluous the Glossary really isn't. If you want to include both include both but put the glossary first.

Luck was an inconvenient lover. Some days she was generous, and other days she was nowhere to be found. — Melvin

A representative image:

[SHUCHI · Rating 4 out of 5]

🎧 Audiobook Review
Story ♥️♥️♥️♥️
Narration ♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️
Overall ♥️♥️♥️♥️

Hailey Turner's prequel is a wonderful premise of learning about the secretive rebellion force "The clockwork brigade". It's a story about two men again coming from different backgrounds thrown in the aftermath of a political war between powerful nations and people. Ezra and Melvin Kaur aren't suppose to ever meet let alone form a connection, yet they did and what started as a help & rescue mission turned into something much more. Ezra is a struggling toyshop maker who wants to keep the "collections gang" at bay, and Melvin is the secret "cog" worker of the clockwork brigade who is trying to save debt slaves from such collection gangs. When a rescue mission goes sideways and Melvin is just saved by his quick thinking and Ezra's on time help, both men got caught in an attraction they rather stay away from. Can they...will they be willing to give each other a chance no matter what dire circumstances they face is what this short but awesome novella explores.

It's an intriguing plot and engaging characters make it a must-read/listen for anyone interested in knowing the goings on in Maricol before all the "The Infernal War's" effect started to take precedence in the lives of the main characters. I highly recommend to read book 1 to understand the plot better as the storyteller has created an over arching and powerful world building of the fictional kingdom.of Maricol. Of course the "Game of Throne" feels is awesome! As for narration, you just immerse in the story right from the beginning, as expected from Gary Furlong. Another powerful performance . Can't wait for book 2😍😍😍😍😍.

#HaileyTurner #ClockworkBrigade #mmmysteryromance #BookRecommendation #narratorgaryfurlong #ReadingIsFun

***I received a copy of this audiobook from Gay Romance Reviews, for an honest review.***

[Dana · Rating 4 out of 5]

For as sprawling as book one was both in terms of setting and the large cast of characters, this book focuses on two. We learned of the Clockwork Brigade and their part in freeing debt slaves from the corrupt system that chews them up and spits them out only when they’ve been used up. Melvin and his noble family have been part of the brigade for quite some time. When he tries to help two slaves escape, things go wrong, and he ends up needing the help of Ezra.

Ezra is a toymaker who struggles to make ends meet and is only just shy of becoming a debt slave himself. He helps Melvin and the fleeing rescuees out of kindness and fear of being the one in their place. Also, maybe a tad because Melvin was kind to him earlier in the marketplace, and Ezra’s kind of attracted to him. The two men are from two vastly different backgrounds, but they have mutual attraction and the ability to do good for the Clockwork Brigade in the future.

This is a nice little snippet set in the world of the Infernal War Saga, and a sweet little romance. It wet the whistle in preparation for the release of book two next month. Not to be ignored, is Gary Furlong’s excellent narration. He is one of the best at his craft.

[Josie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Story: 3.5⭐️
Audio: 4.5⭐️

This introduction into the world of Marisol is a fast-paced adventure that focuses on one of the two plagues of this world—debt bondage. When people can't pay their bank loans, they and sometimes their family are sold as slaves to work of the debt; most people die before even coming close to working off the debt and its interest.

Marcus is a nobelman whose family helps smuggles slaves to safety who pulls Ezra into his orbit when a drop goes bad, and Ezra's life is forever changed in the process.

The story manages to pack in a lot of worldbuilding to make the events understandable while hinting at a lot more, but as the narrative is so fast-paced and has some heavy lifting to do, there isn't much time spent with Ezra and Marcus. We get an idea of who they are and they are interesting enough that I would have liked to have gotten a bit more. Nevertheless, it's an engaging story and a good prologue to the series. Gary Furlong is great as usual and outside of a few odd pauses, the audio production is solid.

[Gabbi Grey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fabulous Steampunk (an audio review)

I’m loving Hailey Turner’s Infernal War Saga and was thrilled to see her release her novella on audio. Although I picked it up last year, I haven’t had a chance to read it – so thank you Hailey for giving me the opportunity. And thank you, Gary Furlong, for doing a fabulous job narrating this story. As always, you deliver a fantastic performance and I could listen to you all day and never tire.

The story is about two men in a time when things can be perilous for those who owe money (which always gives me the creeps since I’m so far in debt. In this story, Ezra is on the verge of becoming indentured and all that entails. He saves Melvin’s life, without hesitation, and Melvin expresses his gratitude in some rather interesting ways. Melvin offers Ezra a way out – and Ezra gets the chance to help those less fortunate.

This is the prequel to the series. I devoured book 1 and book 2 is coming shortly (I’m doing grabby hands). I’m loving this complexly woven tale in the world of steampunk. Can’t wait for the next one.

[Helen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Steampunk MM series

A great start to a new series by Hailey Turner. Her worldbuilding goes above and beyond; you can imagine yourself amongst the drama living with the Clockwork Brigade or any other group.

What a novella this is, Marshall and the toy maker, plus the debt bonded, such a powerful story in a short but intriguing book. Well worth the read. A great addition to the series so far.

Gary Furlong tells the story well; his ability to do all the voices is incredible. It entirely made the audio experience.


An Emporium of Hearts
An Infernal War Saga Novella
By: Hailey Turner
Narrated by: Gary Furlong
Series: Infernal War Saga
Length: 1 hr and 37 mins

❤❤❤❤❤ Overall
🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧 Narration
📚📚📚📚📚 Story
Read at 1.25 speed on Audible

I received this audiobook for free from GRR at my request. My review is my opinion and an honest review - neither the author nor GRR influenced my opinion.

[Kaity · Rating 4 out of 5]

Audio: 5 stars, it's Gary Furlong, it's obviously going to be a 5 star listen. This can also be found on Everand.
Book: 4 stars

For a book less than 100 pages, the way it was written didn't make it feel like that.

I know I DNF'ed the first book of this series, but since I know that all three books are officially out, I am going to give this series another go. I did that with Hailey Turner's A Ferry of Bones & Gold, I originally DNF'ed it, but then I gave it another shot, and it is now my all-time favorite series! So I won't be surprised if the same thing happened here.

This story and the world building is incredible, but I expect nothing less than that from Hailey Turner, her writing is addictive and when she partners with Gary Furlong to narrate, you are bound to have a winner.

[L.D. · Rating 5 out of 5]

An Emporium of Hearts is the prequel novella to the Infernal War Saga, an epic sci-fi/steampunk/fantasy series with incredible worldbuilding and characters. This novella can be read as a standalone or before book one of the Infernal Wars Saga. The worldbuilding is kept to a minimum and clearly explained. The story focuses more on the romance between Melvin and Ezra as they navigate a dangerous world where one misstep can ruin not only themselves, but their entire families. For a short novella, this story has it all: romance, action, and suspense. It’s a great introduction to the Infernal War Saga and a great addition to the world.

Gary Furlong narrated the audiobook and does a fantastic job, just like always. I love Gary’s voice so much and he really knows how to embody and bring to life each character. The audiobook production was well done.