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Mystic Wolves #1A

Without Mercy

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This novella is no longer available. It is now part of the full-length novel "Mystic Wolves".

What would you do if a simple errand takes a deadly twist, turning you from cautious prey to dangerous predator?

When Darcy's outing takes a turn for the worst and tests her to the point of breaking, she struggles to maintain her humanity. Where loyalty and pack mean everything, she surrenders to the inevitable and only an act of complete trust can touch her. When all is said and done, with memories flooding her mind, Darcy holds tightly to the only thing that makes sense...it was all a dream. Or was it?

300 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 7, 2011

16 people are currently reading
1434 people want to read

About the author

Belinda Boring

55 books1,269 followers
A homesick Aussie living amongst the cactus and mountains of Arizona, Belinda Boring is a self proclaimed addict of romance and all things swoon worthy. It wasn’t long before she began writing, pouring her imagination and creativity into the stories she dreams. Whether urban fantasy, paranormal romance or romance in general, Belinda strives to share great plots with heart and characters that you can’t help but connect with. Of course, she wouldn’t be Belinda without adding heroes she hopes will curl your toes.

Surrounded by a supportive cast of family, friends and the man she gives her heart and soul to, Belinda is living the good life. Happy reading!

You can find me:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Belind...
Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/BelindaBoring
Instagram: www.instagram.com/BelindaBoring

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
Profile Image for Stacey (sassysreadingnook).
640 reviews74 followers
July 31, 2011
The cover and name alone are simply AMAZING!! But what lies beneath the cover well, what else can I say but O.M.G...

This story was wonderfully written, the more I read the more it made me feel like I was there watching it all unfold before my eyes. I was captured from the first sentence and was drawn deeper in as the story progressed. I was literally perched on the edge of my seat gripping the keyboard with anticipation of what was coming next.

For a short story the emotion portayed just blew me away. Reading from Darcy's perspective I could feel what she was feeling. The fear for her sisters life, pure rage, heartbreaking sadness and the love she had for her mate Mason. (can't wait to hear more about him *winks*)

Belinda has created a new and exciting world, one that captivates the reader and will leave you wanting more. I know that I was. *winks*



Profile Image for Tishia (Paperback Opinion).
345 reviews27 followers
July 26, 2011
Without Mercy is a very short novella-length book. It goes by very quickly without a dull moment. The story centers around a werewolf named Darcy and the awful predicament she is in. All it takes is a trip to the store, and her life is in danger. It reminds you that things can happen to anyone at any time. Darcy is a wonderful person, and wants to settle things in the least violent way possible. This decision, however, turns tragic.

Darcy is a strong female lead character. She is very brave and un-selfish. We are introduced to Mason in this story – the pack leader, and Darcy's future mate. Even with what little we see of him, it is obvious that this guy is amazing. He is a very swoonworthy character, and a perfect pack leader. I can't wait to read more about him in future books.

One word that describes this story is “smooth”. It flows wonderfully and has great pacing. I love how novellas are quicker paced, so you don't have all the boring descriptions to wade through. This novella is Belinda Boring's debut, and I was quite impressed. She is a wonderful writer and I'm looking forward to reading much more from her.
Profile Image for Heather Book Savvy Babe.
495 reviews134 followers
August 10, 2011
This is going to be a quickie review to fit a quickie story. Without Mercy is a very short novella, a quick story, but an excellent one. So many times in novellas, the stories can be complex, which is very difficult to pull off in a short story. In Without Mercy, Belinda Boring does an excellent job of keeping the story on-track, and not making the plot overly complicated. This story is a teaser, and a wonderful introduction to a new series and new characters.

In this novella, emotions run high as two female werewolves are cornered and betrayed by a man they thought was a friend. As the danger escalates, Darcy and her future sister-in-law struggle to keep their inner-wolves at bay. I felt for Darcy and her struggle to try to maintain the balance between her humanity and her inner wolf. I also liked Marcus, the alpha wolf, and how he handled the aftermath of the dangerous encounter the girls faced. I loved the characters, I loved the plot, I loved this novella. I am now very much looking forward to reading more about these characters.

Without Mercy is the perfect prelude to a promising new series. Kudos to Ms. Boring for such an excellent debut!
Profile Image for Laurie.
616 reviews132 followers
July 29, 2011
To be accosted while on a simple errand was about last thing Darcy expected. But when a steady hand holds a gun in a threatening stance, Darcy knows she better think quickly. A few minutes, a spurned rival, and innocence is forever lost.

This short story, told in first person, introduces a new werewolf pack in a novelette series called Mystic Wolves which will be continued in the next adventure, Cherished. This short urban fantasy kept me glued to my kindle screen and the outcome was surprising. Darcy is a spirited female alpha and the little peak we were given of Mason, her mate, definitely left me yearning for more. I would have preferred this story to be fleshed out a bit more with a little more background included, but my guess is that the background details will be unveiled in future escapades – doled out in stingy rations to us ravenous readers. The foundation is being carefully set and I think the author’s imagination will ensure this becomes a “must read” series.

Reviewed by Laurie-J
Profile Image for Marsha.
3,053 reviews58 followers
January 2, 2012
"Without Mercy" is a short story introducing the Mystic Werewolves. It is also a painful lesson as to what can happen when we ignore our intuition. Darcy is at a pack football game where she and her intended mate,Mason are playing a flirtatious game of cat and mouse. After the game is over and the barbecue is about to begin, Darcy and Mason's sister go to the store to pick up A-1 steaksauce of all things. Unfortunately, they are held by someone they know with a gun. The result will be deadly and 'without mercy.'

I enjoyed this short story and since it was free at Amazon.com I enjoyed it even more. I was a little surprised by the ending and wanted or hoped for more. Unfortunately, that was not the case. The ending just seemed unfinished and little too abrupt for me. At this point, I am not sure how to proceed. ebook two is $5.99 and if it is another short story, I will not pay that price for it. Also, I believe it might be about other characters rather than these. Oh well, I guess I will have to read all of the reviews to determine my next step. Don't you just hate that!
Profile Image for Crystal _ Reading Between the Wines Book Club.
1,550 reviews329 followers
July 30, 2011
Without Mercy is a quick wolfish bite of tragedy and trust weaved together in one fabulous novella.

In this debut novella from new author Belinda Boring we are introduced to her heroine and the alpha’s intended mate of the Mystic Wolves, Darcy. When a simple trip to the store turns to tragedy, she finds herself not only up against a gun wielding advisory but the wolf inside as well. Right off the bat Darcy comes off as a strong and confident woman, loyal to her pack and willing to give her life for those she loves.

The plot moved at a fast clip, keeping the reader on a constant edge. Smoothly written, filled with tension, action, loss and a deep internal struggle; the story almost brought me to tears at one point.

Mason is the strong and sensitive alpha of the pack that we received a few glimpses from and from what I’ve seen so far me likey and I cannot wait to read more about him! Sadly though, no smexy time...yet!

With less than 25 pages though I was hungering for more!
Profile Image for Stephanie Roberts .
52 reviews7 followers
July 8, 2011
Darcy and Jasmine were only suppose to run into town for a quick stop and come right back. Mason, the pack Alpha and future mate of Darcy, had "fought" with Darcy about this very topic. He didn't want them out without back up, but he gave in and allowed them to go . . Now, Darcy is wishing she hadn't fought for this freedom. Staring down the barrel of a gun and no possible way to call for back up, Darcy tries to pull together a plan. . .

You won't want to miss how this story plays out. Be prepared to feel a handful of emotions come rushing at you while you read this short tale of Pride loyalty.

I for one will patiently await for more from this up and coming author.

Ok, so I never wait patiently for anything . .
Profile Image for Sarah.
1,085 reviews101 followers
July 30, 2011
This is a short yet powerful glimpse into Darcy's life during an emotional scene. She is trying to save her life, as well as that of another werewolf without resorting to violence.

I liked the way the wolf portion was portrayed, as if it were separate from Darcy, and yet inside her. It was unique and intriguing. The idea of the two of them in the same body fighting for control was something new to me.

I can't wait to read more episodes from this world. The second in the series is apparently already in the works, so hopefully it wouldn't be too long of a wait.
Profile Image for Dianne.
96 reviews2 followers
August 16, 2017
I thoroughly enjoyed Without Mercy. It was a quick short read that pulled you in ti the actions and emotions if the characters. I enjoyed Ms. Belinda Boring's style of writing and the ease and flow of the story. I would definitely purchase any future books from Ms. Boring.
Profile Image for Laurie Treacy.
Author 57 books94 followers
July 31, 2011
The one time werewolf Darcy decides to wander away from Pack territory to go to the store with her Alpha mate's sister, Jasmine, without the watchful eye of any members, it just happens to be the day danger comes calling. With her heightened sense of smell this wolf already knows her stalker is lurking in the shadows behind her, waiting, and he's dangerous. With his weapon drawn, what Darcy hadn't figured on was his familiar smell. She knew him but all she wonders is why. Why does he want to kill her and what can she do to stop him?

And so begins the opening scene of Belinda Boring's debut novella, Without Mercy, Book One of Mystic Wolves. This novel may be short in pages but it certainly doesn't skimp on anything else. This urban fantasy yarn spins an enticing web, grabbing the reader from the first tense moment. Darcy gives us an insightful view of a young werewolf still learning when and how to loosen the feral beast inside of her. I enjoyed how her other fur-covered half would interject observations or feelings as the human Darcy's fights to keep the confrontation violence-free. As she watches over her younger, inexperienced friend, we see her inner battle for control and to do what is right, until she has to no choice but to finally give in to the beast inside of her.

Aside from a few typos, Without Mercy was a gripping and emotional story. Tension-filled from beginning to end, we are privy to one she wolf's interactions with a crazed human and the fight she undertakes to keep her humanity intact. Though her scene with her mate, Mason, was short, the strength of their bond was obvious, as was his love for her. I used to believe werewolves were not my favorite kind of supernatural creature, but quite a few adult and YA authors have proven me wrong with their stories. I must now add Belinda Boring to my list of writers convincing me to keep on reading their engrossing wolf tales. Move over vampires, angels and fey, make room for the wolves.
Profile Image for Karysa Faire.
Author 2 books9 followers
January 16, 2012
Without Mercy, a Mystic Wolves novelette, is Belinda Boring’s first published work. I loved it! With immediate danger, werewolves, hints of love, and uncontrollable grief, it satisfied my inner urban-fantasy fanatic. From the first sentence, the tension grabbed me and held tight until the end. I found myself yelling out-loud at the protagonist in a few spots--my poor dog was so startled at my unexpected howl that he fell off his perch on the couch. You know a story is good when you talk to it.

It is written in a short-story style, basically one scene from beginning to end. And it is masterfully done. There are no side trips down memory lane or introduction of characters that are not important. Tidbits of information are seamlessly added (such as a reference to vampires) that explain the current situation and hint at the possible stories to come. The pacing is fantastic and takes us through the plot as if we were there, direct observers of the scene that unfolds.

While the character descriptions were solid, only one character was really developed. The protagonist, Darcy, a female werewolf who believes that non-violent resolutions are possible in every situation, has her beliefs put to the test with some heart-stopping consequences. She was absolutely believable as a character. Mason, the leader of the pack, on the other hand, reacted in a way that was unexpected given that he was alpha. There were some hints to his motivations, but not quite enough to make him believable for me. However, Without Mercy is not about Mason, it’s about Darcy. He was a minor part of the story so he was easy to overlook.

I’m looking forward to the next in the series. There is another, right?
Profile Image for Nikki .
804 reviews114 followers
July 31, 2011
Without Mercy was an action packed, fast paced read that was like a drink of water on a parched throat. Refreshing. I enjoyed it immensely for what it was. A novelette. Belinda does a great job of starting the story in a interesting position and giving the reader back story in few words. I read this short novelette in under an hour so it’s extremely quick.

Without Mercy starts with a gun leveled at Darcy’s chest by someone who her pack thought of as a friend. Turns out he was only after Darcy’s soon to be sister in law and after being denied marriage, he well, for lack of a better phrase, flipped his lid. What follows is a desperate attempt to calm him down while not riling the sister, Jasmine, who doesn’t have control over her wolfish side quite yet.

I enjoyed this a lot, but I did have a bit of trouble connecting because it was extremely fast. I wasn’t convinced completely with the relationship between Darcy and the alpha of the pack, Mason. I think had there been a short novelette with them coming together beforehand I might have felt a bit differently. I have trouble just being told it is what it is..I like to be shown. I like the evolving, even if short, of a relationship. The villain and Jasmine I didn’t have any trouble with. Well rounded characters and interactions I bought in to.

Belinda plans on publishing more of these short novelettes every few weeks and I for one am eagerly awaiting more of this new world. Quick bursts of story to read on a lunch break or while sitting pool side this summer are a go from me!

I give Without Mercy by Belinda Boring 4 stars
57 reviews2 followers
July 11, 2011
Without Mercy is Belinda Boring’s debut novelette in the Mystic Wolves series. Bel is an amazing person and I am so excited for her and her new career as an author. She is an awesome writer as you will get to know if you read her work.

Without Mercy is a short story introducing you to the pack of wolves that are the centre of this urban fantasy series. From the very beginning, this story is action packed and had me filled with intrigue as to where the story would lead. I was literally sitting on the edge of my seat waiting to read what the characters did next and what the outcome would be.

My favourite part was when Darcy was shielding Jasmine. To me, this set Darcy aside from the very beginning as the heroine in this story. Not only is she strong but she is also brave. I can’t say there were any parts of the story that I hated as I loved it all..although there was certain scene that tug at my heart strings. Damn you Bel!

And when we meet Mason..wowzee!! I had to be careful that I didn’t drool. He had me swooning from the offset. Darcy you are one lucky girl. I especially loved the interaction between Darcy and Mason near the end. I don’t want to say too much as it would give the story away but it’s very cute and heart felt.

Overall, great introduction to a series that I know I will be following all the way through. You guys should definitely check this out!

Disclaimer: I own this book and bought it with my own money from Smashwords.com. I have not been paid to review this book and everything is of my own honest opinion.
Profile Image for Lori {Romancing the Dark Side}.
402 reviews270 followers
August 1, 2011
Romancing the Dark Side Review:

An exciting debut by a new author to look out for!

This short novelette introduces us to Darcy, a werewolf who runs into trouble while out with her future sister in law one evening. Using violence only as a last resort, Darcy attempts to settle things peacefully but her plan unfortunately backfires and ends in tragedy. These events unleash the beast within Darcy which threatens to take over completely, putting her humanity in peril.

Darcy is an excellent protagonist. She's smart, strong, level-headed and tries to avoid conflict whenever possible, which proves to be her downfall in this story. Her love interest and future mate is the pack leader, Mason, who plays a small but memorable role; this is one Alpha I want to learn more about! We also meet Gary, the story's villain who gets his just deserts.

Without Mercy is a fast paced story whose entirety takes place in just one scene. The writing flows effortlessly and keeps you on the edge of your seat with suspense. There's just enough backstory without getting too carried away in detail, which often takes away from a great story. Belinda gives you a peek into her mystifying world of Mystic Wolves that will have you yearning for more!

{ebook courtesy of author for review}
Profile Image for Jodie.
444 reviews49 followers
August 3, 2011
4.5/5
www.booksforcompany.com
This is only 23ish pages long so I was doubtful as to whether Belinda could establish the characters alongside a good plot in such a small amount of pages. Without Mercy managed to do it perfectly in such a small amount of time I was left wanting more before I even got past the second page!
Without Mercy jumps straight into the action and gripped me from the first line. There was the constant wondering what's going to happen, who's behind the attack, why they are attacking Darcy and don't forget, who is Darcy herself?!
The plot seems so simple but there is little things added throughout this book which make everything much more intriguing and engrossing. Darcy is the perfect character for this sort of book and the further I got into the book the more I got to know her but the more I wanted to get her. The other characters in this book were also all very unique and each added to the plot and Darcy's actions. I liked how Belinda helped me, as the reader, get to know the other characters who I hadn't even yet met through Darcy. This mean't when they came into the story I didn't feel like they were 'strangers'.

Overall Without A Mercy is a great read which will both hook you and intrigue you within a matter of 2 lines! Belinda has a great skill to write a story which flows perfectly alongside a great pace. My only wish is that it was longer!
Profile Image for Cyle.
966 reviews143 followers
July 30, 2011
GENRE: Urban Fantasy
THEME: Wolves
RECEIVED: Request to Review by Author
BLOG: http://seeingnight.blogspot.com/

REVIEW:
Belinda Boring is such a tease, but of course in a good way, by introducing her novelette Without Mercy. I was gripping my kindle; with every click of the page I never wanted the short story to end. Boring did a fantastic job captivating me with her protagonist Darcy, who is a smart female werewolf that is in a pretty sticky situation.

The readers are introduced to Darcy who has to prepare for possibly the worst, which I pretty much held my breath through the whole scene. Also introduced is the Alpha of her pack, Mason, which the readers were only spoiled a little bit about him. The whole story is an introduction to Darcy, her personality, love, and the dangers that her pack has to go through.

I can’t say much more without spoiling too much, but I loved how Boring pulled you right into the story without the long background of each character. I was easily drawn to the characters and the plot was intense. I can’t wait for the next tidbit and to know more about Darcy and Mason’s relationship. So now Ill just wave my hands wildly hoping Belinda Boring will let me read the next part early.
Profile Image for Donna (BLHmistress).
171 reviews85 followers
July 31, 2011
When I found out this novella was going to be on tour, I quickly signed up and I have to say I wasn't disappointed. It drew me in from the beginning and kept me entranced to the very end. This book though short it delivered a massive punch. The only thing I hated was to see it end.

Darcy is my kind of girl, she would do anything to protect the people she loved and wow did she ever. I would have loved to see more of Mason, her mate and I hope we will in the future.

I am struggling with this review because I just can't find the right words to do this book justice even for as short it is and without giving away spoilers. I could just say I loved loved loved loved it- would that do ?? It honestly left me craving for more, So in my book that is a mark of a great author.

If you love werewolves which is quickly becoming tied with my first love then you must must check out this fantastic debut by Belinda Boring.
Profile Image for ѦѺ™.
447 reviews
July 28, 2011
For the strength of the Pack is the Wolf, and the strength of the Wolf is the Pack. - Rudyard Kipling


Darcy's trip to the convenience store with Mason's sister Jasmine turned out to be a really bad thing for both of them when they encounter a crazed gunman. will Darcy's humanity be in control or will the wolf in her lord it over?
Belinda Boring's debut novelette is very promising. the author captures in detail Darcy's harrowing moments as the man and beast within her battle for supremacy. we get to experience the drama and emotional conflict that lead Darcy to make her choice and the consequence of that decision.
i look forward to reading the next installment in this smoothly written and fast-paced page turner and find out more about how Darcy's decisive act affects her life, Mason's and those in her pack.
Profile Image for Kim.
Author 15 books246 followers
July 29, 2011
Without Mercy is the debut novelette in the new Mystic Wolves series by Belinda Boring, and the perfect start to both the series and the writing career of the author! The action starts from the very first page and doesn't let up. It is a story with a whole lot of "bite", pun completely intended! The story opens with Darcy and Jasmine, her mate's sister, alone and in a potentially perilous situation. The emotions are so raw and powerful, amazing in a such a short piece. You could practically taste the emotions rolling off of the characters: the fear, the anger, the rage, the grief, and even the love. The fact that the story was so riveting and so full within the boudaries of a small novelette speaks volumes to the author's skill with words. I cannot WAIT for the next book, Cherished, coming soon.
Profile Image for Beverly.
361 reviews
July 15, 2011
My thoughts:
This story is fantastic! The first sentence grabbed me and never let go!
This is a wonderfully written piece of work. Descriptive wording, clever plot, interesting and carefully created characters, a smooth flowing storyline, and an ending that both satisfies and leaves you wanting MORE stories from the author.

I found my heart in my throat as the story unfolded before me. Who would prevail? The woman...the wolf...desire...and who would save her from herself?

A MUST read for shifter fans! Fantastic debut from a talented writer and fellow book blogger! Be sure to check this one out! I know I am looking forward to reading more books in this series and more books in general from Belinda Boring.
Profile Image for Amber I..
335 reviews69 followers
July 16, 2011
My only complaint, that it ended too fast. In just a short novella we got everything you would want from a full length novel. This story was pretty intense from the beginning and had you glued to it the whole way through.

I really hope Belinda writes more about these wolves. Darcy was a very strong character and I instantly loved her when she put herself before Jasmine. Then there is also Mason, who I am dying to get to know. (So Bel if you read this pretty please write more with these characters.)

This is a perfect book for anyone who loves reading Urban Fantasy.

34 reviews1 follower
August 6, 2011
First off, I have to be honest: I’ve never been one for books on werewolves. But my oh my did Belinda Boring surprise me! The first page will have you reeling as she jumps straight into the action. 10% in and you feel like you belong to the pack. You will find yourself anxious, grieving and in love all in the same moment as you watch Darcy fight her inner wolf in a metaphoric act for self-control through heart-breaking situations.

To read more of my reviews please visit: ink-puddle.blogspot.com
Profile Image for Freda Mans-Labianca.
1,294 reviews125 followers
July 31, 2011
This might have been short but don't let that fool you into thinking it wasn't awesome. It totally was!
The idea of having to hold back the wolf inside of you, when faced with a you-or-me situation, that was exciting and cool to read! Probably my favorite part of the story.
A really great job at introducing us to your writing Belinda! Kudos!
Profile Image for Shari.
434 reviews18 followers
August 4, 2011
Seriously WOW! I think this is my favorite novelette ever!!! Belinda Boring did an incredible job of pulling me right in and not letting go. So much action and emotion in just twenty pages. I can't wait for the next installment and more of Darcy and Mason. If you love werewolves, you won't be sorry that you picked up Without Mercy.
Profile Image for ParaYourNormal.
51 reviews25 followers
August 3, 2011
Review written by Morgan Wylie

Without Mercy may be a novelette, but it is packed full from the very beginning with hints preparing us for hopefully more to come with the Mystic Wolves... this little gem definitely left me wanting more.

Read the entire review at ParaYourNormal
2 reviews1 follower
August 16, 2011
Belinda Boring created a world that delivers the emotional equivalent of a sucker punch to the gut. There is love, action, betrayal, heartache and romance delievered in each sentence of this story. As an author, I respect and hope to learn from her. As a friend, I am honored to read all that she puts on the page.
15 reviews7 followers
August 10, 2011
I literally devoured this in one night, I couldn't put it down. It had everything I love - Action, chemistry, and emotion. Darcy is a strong female lead and Mason is H-O-T! Can't wait to read the next installment. My only complaint.. I need more.
143 reviews20 followers
August 16, 2011
This story sucks you in from the very 1st sentence. The tension does not let up. Belinda Boring is now an author on my 'must read' list,which means an automatic purchase whenever a new book by her comes out.
Profile Image for Jenny  Zimmerman.
1,664 reviews71 followers
January 22, 2012
OMG! What a rip your heart out story!!! I may never get my heart put back right after reading this! Ready for book 2!!! MUST read!
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