Darker than the previous two - probably with trigger warning for some readers regarding consent. But better for it, because the author manages to avoid unnecessary graphical details and still provide a poignant message. Bonus absence of demons which are my least favourite antagonist.

Mercedes iis fairly sure she's settled her place in the Werewolves, comfortably outside, and navigated the shoals of the Vampire treacheries. Next up are the fae, long inteegrated with Humanity mostly by hiding, but now slightly open in Reservations but the great powers. the Grey Lords, even if they're not the gods of old, are still hidden and formidable. Their Will rules the fae. But Mercedes stands firmt o her firends whatever forces are facing them. Her long time mentor, the "gremlin" Vee is arrested at the scene of an obvious supernatural killing of a mundane human. The GreyLords are happy to let him take the blame and maintain peace and quiet. Mercy has other ideas as it's quickly obvious that Vee is innocent. But she can't stir too much as some secrets have to be maintained. And of course the werewovles are there to help, providing Mercey heals the rift in the pack her presence causes and chooses who she'll have as her mate.

Enjoybale clever fast paced, dramatic. Worth reading. ( )

2780

I really appreciate that I started this series after a good portion of the series was out. If I only had book three I’m not sure I could have continued further. It took a seriously dark turn…. And it was more detailed than I definitely felt and feel comfortable with. But the series is worth continuing into. ( )

I knew this would be a tough re-read, but I wanted to get through it again since I’m re-reading all the Mercyverse novels and stories. Besides the awfulness at the end, I had forgotten how good this installment was, with the resolution of the love triangle, the closer look at Ben’s past, and lots more detail about the fae.

One thing that I really like about this series is that Mercy isn’t always right about people, and Briggs does a great job of developing her changes of heart. Ben and Honey are good examples. And I know we see a negative example or two of this as well later on. With a character as smart and talented as Mercy, it’s gratifying to have these humanizing details, and it makes the story better.

Briggs builds on so much from her previous novels in both Mercyverse series, and this re-read has been a good review of what I’ve forgotten, as well as being a marvelously fun indulgence I don’t usually allow myself. ( )

re read ( )