Book Review: Hands of the Order: A Kiss of Glass
When I first stumbled upon "Hands of the Order: A Kiss of Glass" by J.D. Brubaker, the blend of dark fantasy and sapphic romance immediately piqued my interest. A unique retelling of Cinderella, this book promises magic and mayhem, and it certainly delivers. I was curious: Could a story that begins with betrayal and hardship evolve into a narrative rich with friendship and love? Spoiler alert—absolutely!
At its core, the novel follows Nasya Ember, a girl sold into an enigmatic organization called The Order. From the tender age of eight, she endures rigorous training by the ruthless Mothers, molded into an assassin with burgeoning powers she neither understands nor fully controls. I found myself rooting for her in a world that feels unforgiving—a classic tale of making hard choices under dire circumstances. Brubaker does an incredible job of weaving Nasya’s internal struggles with the external pressures of her reality.
What truly struck me was the dual narrative. The story oscillates between Nasya’s harrowing past and her present, a structure that enhances our understanding of her character. It’s reminiscent of weaving threads in a tapestry, where every timeline enriches the larger narrative. Speaking of rich storytelling, Brubaker’s use of descriptive language is phenomenal. I could practically feel the shadows of the forest pressing in as Nasya navigates her dark world, with vivid imagery that makes each location resonate on an emotional level.
Among the standout moments is the deeply evocative relationship between Nasya and her best friend, Scarlet. Their romance unfolds with a delicate balance of tenderness and realism. One moment, they share innocent laughter while training; the next, you feel the heat of their burgeoning attraction, beautifully captured in thoughtful and well-paced sex scenes. Their relationship provides a refreshing layer, showcasing the complexities of love between friends—a theme that deeply resonated with my own experiences.
A noteworthy highlight from the book is how Brubaker integrates messages about female empowerment and solidarity. The characters are not just survivors; they embody resilience, honor, and an unwavering spirit. I found myself reflecting on the importance of female friendships, especially under societal constraints, and how these bonds can spark profound transformation—a theme that carries a poignant weight throughout the narrative.
Perhaps one of the most intriguing reviews I encountered mirrored my sentiments perfectly: readers have hailed it for its intricate world-building and engaging character arcs. J.D. Brubaker’s storytelling shines through, making it a noteworthy addition to the world of LGBTQ+ fantasy literature. If you’re seeking a novel that intricately combines themes of magic, love, and self-discovery, "Hands of the Order: A Kiss of Glass" is a must-read.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend this book to fans of dark fantasy and sapphic romance. Whether you’re a longtime lover of the genre or just dipping your toes into its depths, the emotional resonance and magical intrigue in Brubaker’s debut will leave you eagerly awaiting the sequel. I certainly can’t wait to see where Nasya’s journey takes her next!
You can find Hands of the Order: A Kiss of Glass: A Sapphic Legends & Mythology Dark Fantasy here >>