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The Protector #1
Exiled
Chase Williams is a demon hunter in the Circle, or at least he was supposed to be. On his fifteenth birthday, Chase stepped up to the altar to claim his elemental power, but it never came. Elemental magic is passed down to a hunter through the bloodline, but on Chase's birthday, the bloodline stopped.
Exiled without the Circle's protection, Chase has spent two years trying to survive a world riddled with half-demons and magic. When he has a run in with a frightened and seemingly innocent demon, he learns the Circle's agenda has changed: the Circle plans to unlock a portal and unleash pure-blood demons into the world. Vowing to stop them, and knowing he can't do it alone, Chase forms a reluctant alliance with Rayna — a sexy witch with an attitude and a secret.
In their attempt to stop them, Chase and Rayna find themselves in the middle of the Circle's plan, leaving one of them to decide what their friendship is worth, and the other's life depending on it.
Exiled without the Circle's protection, Chase has spent two years trying to survive a world riddled with half-demons and magic. When he has a run in with a frightened and seemingly innocent demon, he learns the Circle's agenda has changed: the Circle plans to unlock a portal and unleash pure-blood demons into the world. Vowing to stop them, and knowing he can't do it alone, Chase forms a reluctant alliance with Rayna — a sexy witch with an attitude and a secret.
In their attempt to stop them, Chase and Rayna find themselves in the middle of the Circle's plan, leaving one of them to decide what their friendship is worth, and the other's life depending on it.
264 pages, Paperback
First published June 28, 2011
80 people are currently reading
4555 people want to read
About the author
M.R. Merrick
8 books320 followersM.R. Merrick is a Canadian writer and author of The Protector Series, and The Rise of Genesis. Having never traveled, he adventures to far off lands through his imagination and in between cups of coffee. As a music lover and proud breakfast enthusiast, he's usually found at the computer between a pair of headphones and a large bowl of cereal.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 235 reviews
March 31, 2012
M.R. Merrick takes YA paranormal to a whole new level with his debut novel, Exiled, where we're taken on an enthralling action adventure filled with creatures from demons to trolls, alongside our strong, determined protagonist - Chase.
A heartbreaking and powerful start; we're immediately introduced to our dear Chase, when we're taken to his childhood, seeing him exiled from the Circle for having no elemental magic. Fast forward a few years, we meet a teenager who has matured beyond his years by having to keep himself and his mother alive, while constantly on the lookout for demons - killing them when necessary. We do see that he still has some boyish innocence however, when he meets the sexy, smart, and witty Rayna. Both of them are enticing, easily likeable characters, but together, they're infinitely entertaining. The amusing banter between them enlivens the story, giving us a great balance of lightheartedness inside this dark tale.
These are not the only people we get to know and love in this novel. It holds a fantastic cast of secondary characters that are just as enchanting, along with villains that are ruthless. From the unfortunate trolls we meet along the way, to Willy - the always delightful demon - we've got vivid personalities that clearly sets them apart, giving them important supporting roles that adds quite a bit more charm to the story.
It's hard to pinpoint which genre I would consider this; Urban Fantasy would be my pick: It's a fast paced adventure with plenty of fantasy and paranormal elements, a touch of romance, and non stop action. Surprisingly, it all fits incredibly well. I'm not a big fan of fantasy especially - they mostly overwhelm me with the endless hierarchies and politic, so I was relieved this was not the case with Exiled. I was kept intrigued by the inner workings of the demons and hunters. Their conspiracies and prophecies had me engrossed; impressing me with twists I never expected. Its plot is overall immensely creative, giving us a story that is unique, with an ending that will leave you dying for more.
Even though I'm hesitant to get into fantasy, I'm glad that I finally caved to all thethreats rave reviews and gave Exiled a try. Intense and high in action, you should find yourself easily immersed in M.R. Merrick's imaginative world. It has a whole hell of a lot to offer for any and all reading preferences.
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For more of my reviews, visit my blog at Xpresso Reads
A heartbreaking and powerful start; we're immediately introduced to our dear Chase, when we're taken to his childhood, seeing him exiled from the Circle for having no elemental magic. Fast forward a few years, we meet a teenager who has matured beyond his years by having to keep himself and his mother alive, while constantly on the lookout for demons - killing them when necessary. We do see that he still has some boyish innocence however, when he meets the sexy, smart, and witty Rayna. Both of them are enticing, easily likeable characters, but together, they're infinitely entertaining. The amusing banter between them enlivens the story, giving us a great balance of lightheartedness inside this dark tale.
These are not the only people we get to know and love in this novel. It holds a fantastic cast of secondary characters that are just as enchanting, along with villains that are ruthless. From the unfortunate trolls we meet along the way, to Willy - the always delightful demon - we've got vivid personalities that clearly sets them apart, giving them important supporting roles that adds quite a bit more charm to the story.
It's hard to pinpoint which genre I would consider this; Urban Fantasy would be my pick: It's a fast paced adventure with plenty of fantasy and paranormal elements, a touch of romance, and non stop action. Surprisingly, it all fits incredibly well. I'm not a big fan of fantasy especially - they mostly overwhelm me with the endless hierarchies and politic, so I was relieved this was not the case with Exiled. I was kept intrigued by the inner workings of the demons and hunters. Their conspiracies and prophecies had me engrossed; impressing me with twists I never expected. Its plot is overall immensely creative, giving us a story that is unique, with an ending that will leave you dying for more.
Even though I'm hesitant to get into fantasy, I'm glad that I finally caved to all the
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For more of my reviews, visit my blog at Xpresso Reads
March 15, 2013
I put off reading this book for a long time and I’m not sure why. I asked Matt if there was any sexy times in it, and he said not really. That may have had something to do with it. But if he’d told me that there was so much chemistry between Chase and Rayna, I might have checked it out faster. Because it kind of had the potential to stroll into bow chica wow wow territory, and probably would have more if they hadn’t all been so busy fighting to survive. Also, Merrick, what are you doing wasting all that potential sexual chemistry?! And have you ever considered writing romances?
Exiled is like a diamond in the rough. I see so much of Merrick’s potential as an author. I think given time, attention, and hardwork – his books are going to be pretty damn great. Exiled itself was a difficult book to me to rate. The raw material, itself, was pretty excellent. There was certainly plenty to appreciate about the novel and I had a great deal of enjoyment while reading it. This was Merrick’s first novel, though, so there are always going to be things that an author can learn and improve on. When I said diamond in the rough, I meant it. I got the sense throughout reading it, that it really needed an experienced editor to cut and polish it to help Merrick bring out the best parts, and chip off the parts that were cumbersome or unnecessary.
In case you can’t tell – that’s Aladdin and that’s someone explaining the process of how they perfected his look. Isn’t this, like, the most appropriate GIF for a review ever?!
The intro needed to be a little smoother, and the back end of the story contained some unnecessary story telling that I could see was probably setting up for the next novel, but that really punched the pacing in the gut and detracted from the overall plot.
The characters were a big positive for this book. Chase was endearing in that way that little brothers are. Overly-confident and just adorable enough to pull it off. Rayna was a great counter-balance, providing maturity and a gravity that Chase could aspire to. Marcus played the ever-patient and ever-ignored father figure while Chase’s mum gave the novel a sweet, grounding, human touch. Then, of course, there’s Vincent if you want a mature romantic lead.
And whilst I am eager to follow up on the lives and adventures of Chase and crew, I can’t help but want to take a red pen to this book. I enjoyed it so much but feel like its potential was cut short, like a world-class athlete with no one to train it. Merrick made a couple of astounding female characters, which I’d like to see him do more of. The novel does feel a little unbalanced and overpopulated with powerful men in leadership/destiny roles. I feel like they’re especially necessary to balance out the damsel in distress-heavy plot toward the second half of the book.
You’re probably going to like this book if you’re into a younger version of The Dresden Files with a main protagonist who is almost as exasperating. It’s certainly not a perfect novel, but also not without merit.
Ultimately, I want to see more from Merrick. This was a really hard book to rate. I feel like it deserved more stars based on my enjoyment, but the issues with the plotting and pacing tripped me up. I think he has the signs of an excellent story teller, though, and I’m eager to read the next in the series, Shift.
This review can also be found on my blog, Cuddlebuggery Book Blog.
Exiled is like a diamond in the rough. I see so much of Merrick’s potential as an author. I think given time, attention, and hardwork – his books are going to be pretty damn great. Exiled itself was a difficult book to me to rate. The raw material, itself, was pretty excellent. There was certainly plenty to appreciate about the novel and I had a great deal of enjoyment while reading it. This was Merrick’s first novel, though, so there are always going to be things that an author can learn and improve on. When I said diamond in the rough, I meant it. I got the sense throughout reading it, that it really needed an experienced editor to cut and polish it to help Merrick bring out the best parts, and chip off the parts that were cumbersome or unnecessary.
In case you can’t tell – that’s Aladdin and that’s someone explaining the process of how they perfected his look. Isn’t this, like, the most appropriate GIF for a review ever?!
The intro needed to be a little smoother, and the back end of the story contained some unnecessary story telling that I could see was probably setting up for the next novel, but that really punched the pacing in the gut and detracted from the overall plot.
The characters were a big positive for this book. Chase was endearing in that way that little brothers are. Overly-confident and just adorable enough to pull it off. Rayna was a great counter-balance, providing maturity and a gravity that Chase could aspire to. Marcus played the ever-patient and ever-ignored father figure while Chase’s mum gave the novel a sweet, grounding, human touch. Then, of course, there’s Vincent if you want a mature romantic lead.
And whilst I am eager to follow up on the lives and adventures of Chase and crew, I can’t help but want to take a red pen to this book. I enjoyed it so much but feel like its potential was cut short, like a world-class athlete with no one to train it. Merrick made a couple of astounding female characters, which I’d like to see him do more of. The novel does feel a little unbalanced and overpopulated with powerful men in leadership/destiny roles. I feel like they’re especially necessary to balance out the damsel in distress-heavy plot toward the second half of the book.
You’re probably going to like this book if you’re into a younger version of The Dresden Files with a main protagonist who is almost as exasperating. It’s certainly not a perfect novel, but also not without merit.
Ultimately, I want to see more from Merrick. This was a really hard book to rate. I feel like it deserved more stars based on my enjoyment, but the issues with the plotting and pacing tripped me up. I think he has the signs of an excellent story teller, though, and I’m eager to read the next in the series, Shift.
This review can also be found on my blog, Cuddlebuggery Book Blog.
September 27, 2012
In all honesty here, I have read a lot of books this year with Demons and recently have found them all kind of mixing together in my head and not remembering much about them only weeks after reading the book.
This book however completely stood out on it's own and incredibly entertaining and memorable.
I had been hearing some good things about the book in some blogs, so I had it on my radar, it's a great price right now and jumped at the opportunity to review it. Needless to say when I started reading it I was unsure how it was going to turn out for me, but about halfway through is when I really knew it was going to get the 5 star rating and worth every penny in my opinion.
What I did like immediately from page one was that it's told from a male perspective. I am starting to appreciate this more and more as it is not so common in Young Adult books out there (I read mostly young adult books for review) I find a the male's perspective on things refreshing and different especially when it is written so well.
This book has great characters, they interacted well with each other, I also like a story with a great evil villain that really adds content that keeps me entertained and guessing at what will happen next. Also the mixture of characters and the world building and traveling was a unique mixture and really fit the story.
I don't know why I find it important to emphasize that the 2nd half of the book rocked! Once the characters were established and we get a feel for everything, it takes off into a crazy adventure and incredible fighting scenes. Rounded off nicely with a epilogue that is very fitting and not a cliffhanger! :)
This book however completely stood out on it's own and incredibly entertaining and memorable.
I had been hearing some good things about the book in some blogs, so I had it on my radar, it's a great price right now and jumped at the opportunity to review it. Needless to say when I started reading it I was unsure how it was going to turn out for me, but about halfway through is when I really knew it was going to get the 5 star rating and worth every penny in my opinion.
What I did like immediately from page one was that it's told from a male perspective. I am starting to appreciate this more and more as it is not so common in Young Adult books out there (I read mostly young adult books for review) I find a the male's perspective on things refreshing and different especially when it is written so well.
This book has great characters, they interacted well with each other, I also like a story with a great evil villain that really adds content that keeps me entertained and guessing at what will happen next. Also the mixture of characters and the world building and traveling was a unique mixture and really fit the story.
I don't know why I find it important to emphasize that the 2nd half of the book rocked! Once the characters were established and we get a feel for everything, it takes off into a crazy adventure and incredible fighting scenes. Rounded off nicely with a epilogue that is very fitting and not a cliffhanger! :)
June 26, 2012
I've had a difficult time trying to write a review for this book.
1) I find it really weird that the author has given himself a 5 star review.
It makes me uncomfortable and makes me feel like the author is stalking his review page. Perhaps this is why there hasn't been much descent toward the book? People are afraid to get reamed out for a negative review, which has been happening a lot lately on goodreads.
2) I have no idea how this book has 4.5 stars out of 5. When I see a book with this high of a review rating, I expect something extraordinary, and this book is far from extraordinary.
My issues: 1) This book was very predictable. So predictable that I feel the characters were extremely moronic to not have figured everything out sooner.
I managed to figure it out after the first hint was given, and since we're experiencing everything from Chase's viewpoint, I have no idea why he couldn't figure it out sooner.
2) There were a ton of misspellings and grammatical errors. I found myself playing a game of "Where'sWaldo The Next Grammatical Error" (doesn't quite have the same "ring" as Waldo, but whatever).
3) I felt like the antagonist in this book (Chase's dad) was way over done...like a characterature of an evil villain.
Chase's father could have still been a dick (still been evil) without going so far overboard. Instead of hating him, I found myself rolling my eyes every time Chase had a flashback.
4)
While I didn't totally hate the book, I didn't think it was outstanding either. It was as my star rating indicates, merely "ok".
1) I find it really weird that the author has given himself a 5 star review.
It makes me uncomfortable and makes me feel like the author is stalking his review page. Perhaps this is why there hasn't been much descent toward the book? People are afraid to get reamed out for a negative review, which has been happening a lot lately on goodreads.
2) I have no idea how this book has 4.5 stars out of 5. When I see a book with this high of a review rating, I expect something extraordinary, and this book is far from extraordinary.
My issues: 1) This book was very predictable. So predictable that I feel the characters were extremely moronic to not have figured everything out sooner.
I managed to figure it out after the first hint was given, and since we're experiencing everything from Chase's viewpoint, I have no idea why he couldn't figure it out sooner.
2) There were a ton of misspellings and grammatical errors. I found myself playing a game of "Where's
3) I felt like the antagonist in this book (Chase's dad) was way over done...like a characterature of an evil villain.
Chase's father could have still been a dick (still been evil) without going so far overboard. Instead of hating him, I found myself rolling my eyes every time Chase had a flashback.
4)
While I didn't totally hate the book, I didn't think it was outstanding either. It was as my star rating indicates, merely "ok".
August 9, 2011
Posted on K-Books
http://k-booksxo.blogspot.com/2011/08...
When I got this book sent to me for review I was really excited to start it. I was really looking forward to reading it and seeing what would happen. I really loved it.
I think this is a book that anyone can enjoy no matter what age they are. It has something for everyone in it, Vampires, Witches, Demons, Warlocks, you name it this book has it.
Chase is a demon hunter, people who are brought up to protect humans from the demons in the world. At fifteen, they go through a ritual to find their elemental power. When Chase doesn't show any elemental magic he and his mother are exiled to live among humans and try to survive among demons. Little does he know that his exile is the best blessing he could get as the Circle are corrupted and he was saved from the biggest evil of them all: his father.
I really loved this book, it was action packed and there were times when I could hardly breathe and no way that I could stop reading. Many times in the book I got the feeling that sometimes you get when watching a movie, you can't look at the screen but you can't stop watching at the same time. Close to the end of the book this was what I was like, so many things were going wrong I couldn't bare to read on because I didn't want anything else to go wrong but at the same time I couldn't possibly stop reading as I just needed to find out what was going to happen.
I really loved the characters in this book, Chase was just such an amazing lead character. In most books I read the lead character is female so I wasn't sure how I would relate to the character but I did. I loved Chase, he's just amazing and so strong. I loved how loyal he is to his mother and would do anything to protect her and how he soon becomes the same to Rayna.
I really loved Rayna, I just wanted to hug her and tell her everything would be okay. She has been through so much and I really admire how strong she is.
The ending of the book was just amazing, I loved how you got closure for things that happened in this first book but also left you needing the next one as well. I was so sad and cried a little at the ending and I love when books make me cry. That to me is a sign of a great author if their words can wield so much emotion in you then they are amazing. M. R. Merrick is definitely an amazing author and I can't wait to see what happens next in this series.
A great start to a series and I will definitely be following it right the way through until the end.
http://k-booksxo.blogspot.com/2011/08...
When I got this book sent to me for review I was really excited to start it. I was really looking forward to reading it and seeing what would happen. I really loved it.
I think this is a book that anyone can enjoy no matter what age they are. It has something for everyone in it, Vampires, Witches, Demons, Warlocks, you name it this book has it.
Chase is a demon hunter, people who are brought up to protect humans from the demons in the world. At fifteen, they go through a ritual to find their elemental power. When Chase doesn't show any elemental magic he and his mother are exiled to live among humans and try to survive among demons. Little does he know that his exile is the best blessing he could get as the Circle are corrupted and he was saved from the biggest evil of them all: his father.
I really loved this book, it was action packed and there were times when I could hardly breathe and no way that I could stop reading. Many times in the book I got the feeling that sometimes you get when watching a movie, you can't look at the screen but you can't stop watching at the same time. Close to the end of the book this was what I was like, so many things were going wrong I couldn't bare to read on because I didn't want anything else to go wrong but at the same time I couldn't possibly stop reading as I just needed to find out what was going to happen.
I really loved the characters in this book, Chase was just such an amazing lead character. In most books I read the lead character is female so I wasn't sure how I would relate to the character but I did. I loved Chase, he's just amazing and so strong. I loved how loyal he is to his mother and would do anything to protect her and how he soon becomes the same to Rayna.
I really loved Rayna, I just wanted to hug her and tell her everything would be okay. She has been through so much and I really admire how strong she is.
The ending of the book was just amazing, I loved how you got closure for things that happened in this first book but also left you needing the next one as well. I was so sad and cried a little at the ending and I love when books make me cry. That to me is a sign of a great author if their words can wield so much emotion in you then they are amazing. M. R. Merrick is definitely an amazing author and I can't wait to see what happens next in this series.
A great start to a series and I will definitely be following it right the way through until the end.
November 27, 2011
**** Originally posted to Bookish Blog as a part of MEN in YA Event
Supernatural (the TV Show) meets The Mortal Instruments in Matt Merrick's insanely addictive, action-packed novel, Exiled. This excellent debut sparks and crackles with so much detail and emotion that it's virtually impossible not to fell in love with it. A superb cast of characters, clever dialogues, exciting plot twists and rich visual tapestry - all that makes it a book that readers simply can't afford to pass up! An absolute must-read!
No matter how many times I survived, there was always another danger around the corner, and I still wasn't used to being the victim. I was Chase Williams, a demon hunter. I wasn't supposed to be the one looking over my shoulder, I was supposed to be stalking prey.[Chase]
Chase Williams is a demon hunter who once belonged to the Circle (group of warriors bearing elemental magic). He was raised and trained to become a hunter. At the age of fifteen his powers were supposed to manifest themselves, but, well, they didn't. He's a magic-free zone, null, zero, nada. Together with his mother, he gets kicked-out of the Circle as a punishment for being a disgrace to his father and other Hunters. But that is only the beginning of his problems. Not only does he have to learn how to live among mortals on Earth, but it also appears that our MC is a magnet for all sorts of trouble, always crossing paths with Underworlders, and having to fight his way through life.
Now that we have the pissing contest out of the way, we need information. [Rayna]
Two years after his exile, he runs into a weird looking demon(ess) and a hunter who seems to be protecting her. Imagine his surprise when these two end up saving his life! Like that wasn't enough, they also tell him that things have changed in the Circle. And not for good at all. Something weird is going on, demon hunters are kidnapping Underworlders and no one knows why. Chase is about to uncover a disturbingly sophisticated web of lies and a plot to take over the world. He will also learn that not all demon hunters are noble and good willed, and not all Underworlders deserve to die.
Yeah, yeah, you expected better from me, being the son of the big, scary Riley Williams and all. Save it, I've heard it.[Chase]
OMG! Exiled exceeded all my expectations! Seriously, I did not think it would be THAT good. I saw people raving about it on Twitter, and I noticed that its Goodreads page is literally bombarded with tons of 5 star reviews, but I really didn't anticipate to be so amazed by it! OH-MY-GOSH!! It's just... unbelievably good! I know we all have those moments when we're hesitant to pick up a self published book, but let me just tell you - this book is nothing short of awesome. Passing up on it would be like saying no to a huge box of brand new books (or Starbucks Gingerbread Latte) - impossible to resist!
All the characters are fabulous. From the overly confident, charming, sexy and incredibly witty MC (Chase), to all the fantastic supporting characters, like the hilarious and insanely cute Underworlder, Willy (he is soooo adorable!!!). And then there's also Rayna! Wow, what a great chick! She's hot, totally kick-ass, sassy, funny, thoughtful, temperamental and loyal. Most importantly - she's not in the least whiny - thank goodness for that! I love Rayna (sorry Chase, you're awesome, too, but she's better!) Merrick's character-and-world-building is simply splendid. I honestly don't know how he does it! There's so much detail to the story, every scene, place and person is described so well, you can easily visualize all that in your head. The plot itself is brilliant, I wouldn't change a thing! I found myself wanting to learn more about the Circle and the Underworld, discover all the mysteries, get to know the characters! I genuinely cared about all that stuff, how extremely rare is that! The wait for the second part is going to be painful for sure, I can't wait to get my hands on it.
To sum it all up: Exiled is a mesmerizing, spine-tingling wonder of a book. It's the perfect blend of action, magic, mystery, thriller, romance and humor. A one-of-a-kind reading experience that you'll never forget! Read it!
Supernatural (the TV Show) meets The Mortal Instruments in Matt Merrick's insanely addictive, action-packed novel, Exiled. This excellent debut sparks and crackles with so much detail and emotion that it's virtually impossible not to fell in love with it. A superb cast of characters, clever dialogues, exciting plot twists and rich visual tapestry - all that makes it a book that readers simply can't afford to pass up! An absolute must-read!
No matter how many times I survived, there was always another danger around the corner, and I still wasn't used to being the victim. I was Chase Williams, a demon hunter. I wasn't supposed to be the one looking over my shoulder, I was supposed to be stalking prey.[Chase]
Chase Williams is a demon hunter who once belonged to the Circle (group of warriors bearing elemental magic). He was raised and trained to become a hunter. At the age of fifteen his powers were supposed to manifest themselves, but, well, they didn't. He's a magic-free zone, null, zero, nada. Together with his mother, he gets kicked-out of the Circle as a punishment for being a disgrace to his father and other Hunters. But that is only the beginning of his problems. Not only does he have to learn how to live among mortals on Earth, but it also appears that our MC is a magnet for all sorts of trouble, always crossing paths with Underworlders, and having to fight his way through life.
Now that we have the pissing contest out of the way, we need information. [Rayna]
Two years after his exile, he runs into a weird looking demon(ess) and a hunter who seems to be protecting her. Imagine his surprise when these two end up saving his life! Like that wasn't enough, they also tell him that things have changed in the Circle. And not for good at all. Something weird is going on, demon hunters are kidnapping Underworlders and no one knows why. Chase is about to uncover a disturbingly sophisticated web of lies and a plot to take over the world. He will also learn that not all demon hunters are noble and good willed, and not all Underworlders deserve to die.
Yeah, yeah, you expected better from me, being the son of the big, scary Riley Williams and all. Save it, I've heard it.[Chase]
OMG! Exiled exceeded all my expectations! Seriously, I did not think it would be THAT good. I saw people raving about it on Twitter, and I noticed that its Goodreads page is literally bombarded with tons of 5 star reviews, but I really didn't anticipate to be so amazed by it! OH-MY-GOSH!! It's just... unbelievably good! I know we all have those moments when we're hesitant to pick up a self published book, but let me just tell you - this book is nothing short of awesome. Passing up on it would be like saying no to a huge box of brand new books (or Starbucks Gingerbread Latte) - impossible to resist!
All the characters are fabulous. From the overly confident, charming, sexy and incredibly witty MC (Chase), to all the fantastic supporting characters, like the hilarious and insanely cute Underworlder, Willy (he is soooo adorable!!!). And then there's also Rayna! Wow, what a great chick! She's hot, totally kick-ass, sassy, funny, thoughtful, temperamental and loyal. Most importantly - she's not in the least whiny - thank goodness for that! I love Rayna (sorry Chase, you're awesome, too, but she's better!) Merrick's character-and-world-building is simply splendid. I honestly don't know how he does it! There's so much detail to the story, every scene, place and person is described so well, you can easily visualize all that in your head. The plot itself is brilliant, I wouldn't change a thing! I found myself wanting to learn more about the Circle and the Underworld, discover all the mysteries, get to know the characters! I genuinely cared about all that stuff, how extremely rare is that! The wait for the second part is going to be painful for sure, I can't wait to get my hands on it.
To sum it all up: Exiled is a mesmerizing, spine-tingling wonder of a book. It's the perfect blend of action, magic, mystery, thriller, romance and humor. A one-of-a-kind reading experience that you'll never forget! Read it!
March 31, 2012
Rayne was quick to comment. “My, can it be true? One day you’re calling me a filthy demon, and next you’re having sleepover with an Underworlder?” “What can I say, he was prettier than you.”~ Rayne and Chase
What a read! Exiled by Mathew Merrick was a fantasy-action novel at its best! If you’re looking for an awesome, action, paranormal novel with a male main character then look no further! Exiled will have you up late at night needing to know what Chase was going to get himself in and out of next!
Chase is a part of the Circle, a group of hunters who have elemental powers to help them save the innocent from demons. Today is Chase’s 15th birthday, today he is supposed to finally receive his elemental power, but when at the ceremony..no elemental power comes. In return his powerful father , a fire elemental has his own son Chase, and Tessa, Chases mother exiled from the circle.
Almost three years later, and Chase still relives that day, every day. As if that wasn’t bad enough, even though he has been exiled, and has no elemental power, he is still regularly attacked by demons. But one day everything changes, he meets Rayne, a beautifully fierce girl that is part demon and hunter… according to what the circle taught him, Rayne shouldn’t even exist...after meeting Rayne, Chase is learning that there is much more going on in the Circle then he could ever imagine..
What a ride! Exiled was one of the best fantasy novels I have ever read, it had everything you want when looking for a great paranormal read, there were hunters, demons, vampires, werecats, goblins, trolls, giants, I think you get my point! This novel completely satisfied my paranormal needs, the part I especially loved about the fantasy beings was how the hunters worked, most books that have hunters, means they are just really strong and good fighters. But in Exiled hunters had magical powers; each hunter had an element they could use; air, fire, water, or earth! Scenes that involved hunters using such awesome powers were my favorite parts throughout the book!
Besides the fantasy aspect of Exiled, I also enjoyed the action throughout it. I don’t normally get to into action scenes in books, but with Exiled I was completely spellbound! The action scenes were so intense with lots of blood and so well written, I normally can’t picture battle/fights in my head very good, but with every one of Matthew Merrick’s action scenes, I pictured it picture perfect clear in my mind, it was incredible! More or so I guess that just means I completely loved the author Matthew Merrick’s writing, even outside of battle scenes each page flowed perfectly, and I was able to easily imagine what was going on!
Last, but not least the characters! The variety of characters was wonderful! There were so many different characters that Chase runs into throughout Exiled, and each and every one of them was easy to remember! No one was really all that similar; each character had a distinctive personality. My favorite hands down though were Chase, Rayne, and Willy. And each one of them is different, Chase is insanely strong headed, Rayne is flat out fierce, and Willy is the guy always scared and stuttering! Their each so different, yet I loved every one of them!
Overall Exiled is not a book any YA fantasy/paranormal readers want to miss. This book had me going crazy over what Chase was going to get him and his friends into next, and I cannot wait to see where book 2 Shift will take him next, I can only hope all the characters I have come to love will make it out of book 2 alive!
What a read! Exiled by Mathew Merrick was a fantasy-action novel at its best! If you’re looking for an awesome, action, paranormal novel with a male main character then look no further! Exiled will have you up late at night needing to know what Chase was going to get himself in and out of next!
Chase is a part of the Circle, a group of hunters who have elemental powers to help them save the innocent from demons. Today is Chase’s 15th birthday, today he is supposed to finally receive his elemental power, but when at the ceremony..no elemental power comes. In return his powerful father , a fire elemental has his own son Chase, and Tessa, Chases mother exiled from the circle.
Almost three years later, and Chase still relives that day, every day. As if that wasn’t bad enough, even though he has been exiled, and has no elemental power, he is still regularly attacked by demons. But one day everything changes, he meets Rayne, a beautifully fierce girl that is part demon and hunter… according to what the circle taught him, Rayne shouldn’t even exist...after meeting Rayne, Chase is learning that there is much more going on in the Circle then he could ever imagine..
What a ride! Exiled was one of the best fantasy novels I have ever read, it had everything you want when looking for a great paranormal read, there were hunters, demons, vampires, werecats, goblins, trolls, giants, I think you get my point! This novel completely satisfied my paranormal needs, the part I especially loved about the fantasy beings was how the hunters worked, most books that have hunters, means they are just really strong and good fighters. But in Exiled hunters had magical powers; each hunter had an element they could use; air, fire, water, or earth! Scenes that involved hunters using such awesome powers were my favorite parts throughout the book!
Besides the fantasy aspect of Exiled, I also enjoyed the action throughout it. I don’t normally get to into action scenes in books, but with Exiled I was completely spellbound! The action scenes were so intense with lots of blood and so well written, I normally can’t picture battle/fights in my head very good, but with every one of Matthew Merrick’s action scenes, I pictured it picture perfect clear in my mind, it was incredible! More or so I guess that just means I completely loved the author Matthew Merrick’s writing, even outside of battle scenes each page flowed perfectly, and I was able to easily imagine what was going on!
Last, but not least the characters! The variety of characters was wonderful! There were so many different characters that Chase runs into throughout Exiled, and each and every one of them was easy to remember! No one was really all that similar; each character had a distinctive personality. My favorite hands down though were Chase, Rayne, and Willy. And each one of them is different, Chase is insanely strong headed, Rayne is flat out fierce, and Willy is the guy always scared and stuttering! Their each so different, yet I loved every one of them!
Overall Exiled is not a book any YA fantasy/paranormal readers want to miss. This book had me going crazy over what Chase was going to get him and his friends into next, and I cannot wait to see where book 2 Shift will take him next, I can only hope all the characters I have come to love will make it out of book 2 alive!
July 1, 2012
Matt gives us one hell of a story in Exiled, one that I didn’t want to put down and super glad I already had Shift - the second novel in the series - when I was finished. We are thrown into a world of demon hunters, demons, half-breeds, trolls, goblins - and on that note, never piss one of those off, things can get a bit scary - witches, and other dimensions. I was instantly hooked and couldn’t flip the page - or in my case tap the screen - quick enough to find out what was happening next.
Chase Williams has lived, studied, and trained in the Circle his whole life awaiting the day he could claim his elemental powers; that day would come on his fifteenth birthday however no powers would. This resulted in himself and his mother being exiled from the Circle; a society of hunters sworn to protect the innocent from demons that they are faced with almost every day. His own father, Riley, was one that went with the decision to cast them out.
After being exiled Chase still had his fair share of fights with demons because everyone in the Underworld wants to be the one to kill him, just because he is the son of Riley. One night he senses a demon - Rayna - and things in his life change drastically after that. He learns that things aren’t the same as they use to be and something is going on inside the Circle that goes against all their rules and beliefs.
I loved the characters and watching Chase realize what was going on, adapt to the change, stand up for what he thought was right, dealing with dark family issues, and of course there’s the girl. I absolutely loved Raynas smirky character; she was full of that sarcastic charm I adore. There wasn’t any romance or insta-love but a friendship growing from an I’d-never-associate-with-someone-like-you to possibly being something more in the future…guess I’ll find out soon enough. If you want something with action, well then my friends, this is the one. There are threats, tons of fights, magic, all the goodies all thrown together into this action packed wonderfully paced book. With all this said you may not believe me when I say that I had some tears, so Matt you are one sneaky sneak for doing that just want you to know.
Exiled takes us to another world where the demons we’ve all read about are told from a different angle; to which I loved. It’s one that you’ll be rooting for the characters while they are going through their journey while your emotions are running all over the place…not to mention your adrenaline pumping until the very end. This is one that I’d highly recommend to anyone; especially those that haven’t read a good book in a while because this will get that I-wanna-read leave-me-the-hell-alone gear back in place.
Chase Williams has lived, studied, and trained in the Circle his whole life awaiting the day he could claim his elemental powers; that day would come on his fifteenth birthday however no powers would. This resulted in himself and his mother being exiled from the Circle; a society of hunters sworn to protect the innocent from demons that they are faced with almost every day. His own father, Riley, was one that went with the decision to cast them out.
After being exiled Chase still had his fair share of fights with demons because everyone in the Underworld wants to be the one to kill him, just because he is the son of Riley. One night he senses a demon - Rayna - and things in his life change drastically after that. He learns that things aren’t the same as they use to be and something is going on inside the Circle that goes against all their rules and beliefs.
I loved the characters and watching Chase realize what was going on, adapt to the change, stand up for what he thought was right, dealing with dark family issues, and of course there’s the girl. I absolutely loved Raynas smirky character; she was full of that sarcastic charm I adore. There wasn’t any romance or insta-love but a friendship growing from an I’d-never-associate-with-someone-like-you to possibly being something more in the future…guess I’ll find out soon enough. If you want something with action, well then my friends, this is the one. There are threats, tons of fights, magic, all the goodies all thrown together into this action packed wonderfully paced book. With all this said you may not believe me when I say that I had some tears, so Matt you are one sneaky sneak for doing that just want you to know.
Exiled takes us to another world where the demons we’ve all read about are told from a different angle; to which I loved. It’s one that you’ll be rooting for the characters while they are going through their journey while your emotions are running all over the place…not to mention your adrenaline pumping until the very end. This is one that I’d highly recommend to anyone; especially those that haven’t read a good book in a while because this will get that I-wanna-read leave-me-the-hell-alone gear back in place.
October 17, 2011
I love when a book launches right out of the chute and never quite slows down. That’s how Exiled by M. R. Merrick, started – and stayed – for me.
I didn’t know much about this book going in. Some books are like that. Sometimes you know about a book and think you should buy it and maybe you will and then finally you do. Other times it kind of happens fast and you’re a little blind going in and, bam, pleasant surprise x 200!
I ran across the author in a Twitter exchange, clicked on a link to get to his website, read about 45 gazillion 5-star reviews and immediately went to Amazon and downloaded Exiled for my Kindle for PC.
I’m so glad I did. Exiled is one of those books that takes you someplace new and unexpected; it’s hard to describe. It’s not just a YA book, it’s not just a demon book, it’s not just a revenge book or a mystery or a race against time, it’s not just about vampires or even goblins… it’s got all of that and so much more.
I love it when the author has really taken the time to not just build but explore a new world in ways that make it exciting for the reader. I’m not trying to be purposefully vague about the plot points, but for me this was such a fun and surprising “find,” I’m trying to allow you to have the same experience.
In summary, Exiled is a debut novel from a talented new author who I look forward to reading more from very, very soon. Do yourself a favor and read Exiled; you won’t be disappointed. Far from it, you’re far more likely to get addicted instead!
I didn’t know much about this book going in. Some books are like that. Sometimes you know about a book and think you should buy it and maybe you will and then finally you do. Other times it kind of happens fast and you’re a little blind going in and, bam, pleasant surprise x 200!
I ran across the author in a Twitter exchange, clicked on a link to get to his website, read about 45 gazillion 5-star reviews and immediately went to Amazon and downloaded Exiled for my Kindle for PC.
I’m so glad I did. Exiled is one of those books that takes you someplace new and unexpected; it’s hard to describe. It’s not just a YA book, it’s not just a demon book, it’s not just a revenge book or a mystery or a race against time, it’s not just about vampires or even goblins… it’s got all of that and so much more.
I love it when the author has really taken the time to not just build but explore a new world in ways that make it exciting for the reader. I’m not trying to be purposefully vague about the plot points, but for me this was such a fun and surprising “find,” I’m trying to allow you to have the same experience.
In summary, Exiled is a debut novel from a talented new author who I look forward to reading more from very, very soon. Do yourself a favor and read Exiled; you won’t be disappointed. Far from it, you’re far more likely to get addicted instead!
January 25, 2013
Ive re-read this book about a million times- it would be faire to say I am obsessed. I read this book ages ago and noticed i hadnt even wrote a review! I know right?
Well anyways back to the book, it is action-packed, thrilling and intense. I loved every word, sentance and page. I just fell in love with Chase and Rayna! Read this book and then youll know why!
It draw you in on the first page and then leaves you begging for more on the last. (Lucky for you guys, the second book is now available)
It is by far one of my favorites and those who have not read it are mising out on one heck of a story.
Once you start reading this book you will not be able to stop-it took all of my will-power to stop for 2 seconds just to have a drink. It is the type of book that you will not be able to put down and will finish quickly.
Throughout this book-even when re-read i re-expierience all of the feelings I felt when I first read the book. It leaves me sad, happy, anguished,humoured, angry, surprised-every emotion known to man.
No one can say after finishing this book that M.R. Merrick didnt produce one heck of a new series!!
After this book I pre-ordered Shift the sequel and read that in the first hour after i received it only to re-read it again once I had finished.
Well anyways back to the book, it is action-packed, thrilling and intense. I loved every word, sentance and page. I just fell in love with Chase and Rayna! Read this book and then youll know why!
It draw you in on the first page and then leaves you begging for more on the last. (Lucky for you guys, the second book is now available)
It is by far one of my favorites and those who have not read it are mising out on one heck of a story.
Once you start reading this book you will not be able to stop-it took all of my will-power to stop for 2 seconds just to have a drink. It is the type of book that you will not be able to put down and will finish quickly.
Throughout this book-even when re-read i re-expierience all of the feelings I felt when I first read the book. It leaves me sad, happy, anguished,humoured, angry, surprised-every emotion known to man.
No one can say after finishing this book that M.R. Merrick didnt produce one heck of a new series!!
After this book I pre-ordered Shift the sequel and read that in the first hour after i received it only to re-read it again once I had finished.
October 25, 2011
Chase is a demon hunter- without an elemental power. For this disgrace to his father's legacy, he was cast out of the 'protection' of the Circle with his mother to live among the humans.
However, the demons that roam our world seek Chase out without fail... OVER and OVER again... night after night... Let me explain quickly, a demon can be any creature of the Underworld: vamp, shifter, witch... etc. And there are only a few ways to kill said demons,
"Cut off his head or pierce his black heart- those were my options. I could light him on fire, but I was fresh out of matches." *grin* I loooove my Chase...
Chase is thoroughly (rather slowly... as he is slightly LOSING) figuring out HOW he wants to rid the world of this particular demon when out of nowhere, RAYNA comes up from behind and takes the kill shot before Chase has the chance!
Rayna... OMG! I TOTALLY freaking LOVE her! Seriously- from her green, shifter eyes to her wickedly hot witchy ways... She was EPIC! Ahem! Moving on...
After Rayna takes out the demon, she starts to lay the smack down on Chase! (Okay, my guy TOTALLY held his own... but Rayna let him HAVE IT!) It becomes clear to Chase as they're fighting, that she- HERSELF- is a demon.
Then someone calls Rayna off! Not just anyone either... A HUNTER! A powerful, air-elemental with the ability to manipulate the shadows. Beyond that, Marcus was also Chase's DAD'S old partner... who has been thought dead by the Hunters for years, when in reality he has been training demons!
This is unfathomable to Chase! Demons and Hunters can't be FRIENDS, and they certainly don't work together! But there is a lot that Chase doesn't know, not all Underworlder's are evil- and not all members of the Circle are good.
RIGHT? I know... and that's just the freaking BEGINNING! I totally looooved Chase and his thought process... and I had a WICKED crush on him! *giggles*
"There were a lot of problems with living in the slums. I could deal with the noisy neighbors. I could handle the random gunshots during the night, but the lack of water pressure was at the top of my list of complaints. This was clearly a sign my life wasn't normal."
Then Chase finds himself doing something that he thought he'd NEVER do... SAVING the life of a demon- from the very Hunter's he used to train with. He takes quite a beating from his former 'brothers', and Willy (the demon) takes him home and has his Gram (freaking AWESOMESAUCE old lady) heal him.
Upon returning home, his mother is FREAKING out because he's been gone for DAYS- healing... at the DEMON'S house. Marcus is there, and Chase finally agrees to help him and Rayna fight against the Hunter's, so they won't be able to procure this half-breed blood they're looking for.
"My can it be true? One day you're putting knives to my throat and calling me a filthy demon, and the next you're having sleepovers with an Underworlder?" ~Rayna
"What can I say, he was prettier than you." ~Chase
I absolutely REFUSE to give ANYTHING more away about the story... but i can assure you it just gets BIGGER & BETTER from there on... I know, it's hard to imagine right?
Now I must mention how much I completely adored the secondary characters in Exiled. They were just as detailed and descriptively written as any of the main characters!
Willy was freaking FABULOUS, Tiki completely ROCKED my face off and even the villainous characters were beautifully fantastic! The vividness in which I experienced the worlds that M.R. Merrick created within Exiled is too hard to put into words. Everything was perfectly executed, so that when I picked up this book- I was instantly transported from my couch, into Chase William's world so completely that I could have been standing next to him.
THIS is why I love indie books... Exiled is the PERFECT example of the EPICNESS that can exist in independent work and therefore so easily go unnoticed!
Part fantasy, part action/adventure, part YA and part romantic comedy without all the dramatics of a love triangle... there's not even kissing! (I'm hoping for some in SHIFT though) I'm kicking myself for having waited so long to read this book. Exiled was completely KNOCK YOUR SOCKS OFF AWESOME!
I LOVED Exiled. It was in all it's glory- A grand adventure, filled with guts, glory, mythical creatures, AMAZING story-telling and we mustn't forget... a golden torrent. And for all this and more, it is joining the ranks with only FOUR other books to ever have received a CROWNED REVIEW.
SERIOUSLY- READ this book, NOW!
However, the demons that roam our world seek Chase out without fail... OVER and OVER again... night after night... Let me explain quickly, a demon can be any creature of the Underworld: vamp, shifter, witch... etc. And there are only a few ways to kill said demons,
"Cut off his head or pierce his black heart- those were my options. I could light him on fire, but I was fresh out of matches." *grin* I loooove my Chase...
Chase is thoroughly (rather slowly... as he is slightly LOSING) figuring out HOW he wants to rid the world of this particular demon when out of nowhere, RAYNA comes up from behind and takes the kill shot before Chase has the chance!
Rayna... OMG! I TOTALLY freaking LOVE her! Seriously- from her green, shifter eyes to her wickedly hot witchy ways... She was EPIC! Ahem! Moving on...
After Rayna takes out the demon, she starts to lay the smack down on Chase! (Okay, my guy TOTALLY held his own... but Rayna let him HAVE IT!) It becomes clear to Chase as they're fighting, that she- HERSELF- is a demon.
Then someone calls Rayna off! Not just anyone either... A HUNTER! A powerful, air-elemental with the ability to manipulate the shadows. Beyond that, Marcus was also Chase's DAD'S old partner... who has been thought dead by the Hunters for years, when in reality he has been training demons!
This is unfathomable to Chase! Demons and Hunters can't be FRIENDS, and they certainly don't work together! But there is a lot that Chase doesn't know, not all Underworlder's are evil- and not all members of the Circle are good.
RIGHT? I know... and that's just the freaking BEGINNING! I totally looooved Chase and his thought process... and I had a WICKED crush on him! *giggles*
"There were a lot of problems with living in the slums. I could deal with the noisy neighbors. I could handle the random gunshots during the night, but the lack of water pressure was at the top of my list of complaints. This was clearly a sign my life wasn't normal."
Then Chase finds himself doing something that he thought he'd NEVER do... SAVING the life of a demon- from the very Hunter's he used to train with. He takes quite a beating from his former 'brothers', and Willy (the demon) takes him home and has his Gram (freaking AWESOMESAUCE old lady) heal him.
Upon returning home, his mother is FREAKING out because he's been gone for DAYS- healing... at the DEMON'S house. Marcus is there, and Chase finally agrees to help him and Rayna fight against the Hunter's, so they won't be able to procure this half-breed blood they're looking for.
"My can it be true? One day you're putting knives to my throat and calling me a filthy demon, and the next you're having sleepovers with an Underworlder?" ~Rayna
"What can I say, he was prettier than you." ~Chase
I absolutely REFUSE to give ANYTHING more away about the story... but i can assure you it just gets BIGGER & BETTER from there on... I know, it's hard to imagine right?
Now I must mention how much I completely adored the secondary characters in Exiled. They were just as detailed and descriptively written as any of the main characters!
Willy was freaking FABULOUS, Tiki completely ROCKED my face off and even the villainous characters were beautifully fantastic! The vividness in which I experienced the worlds that M.R. Merrick created within Exiled is too hard to put into words. Everything was perfectly executed, so that when I picked up this book- I was instantly transported from my couch, into Chase William's world so completely that I could have been standing next to him.
THIS is why I love indie books... Exiled is the PERFECT example of the EPICNESS that can exist in independent work and therefore so easily go unnoticed!
Part fantasy, part action/adventure, part YA and part romantic comedy without all the dramatics of a love triangle... there's not even kissing! (I'm hoping for some in SHIFT though) I'm kicking myself for having waited so long to read this book. Exiled was completely KNOCK YOUR SOCKS OFF AWESOME!
I LOVED Exiled. It was in all it's glory- A grand adventure, filled with guts, glory, mythical creatures, AMAZING story-telling and we mustn't forget... a golden torrent. And for all this and more, it is joining the ranks with only FOUR other books to ever have received a CROWNED REVIEW.
SERIOUSLY- READ this book, NOW!
October 25, 2011
More of my reviews @ www.obsessionwithbooks.blogspot.com
Exiled is all sorts of amazing! It is the first book in The Protector series and pulled me in from the very first page.
Mr Merrick has written a real page turner, the main hero is Chase Williams – an exiled Demon Hunter forced out of the Circle (a group of Guardians protecting the human world) with his mother for not obtaining his power over an element on his 15th birthday – he has disgraced his father who saw him only as his legacy and has lost the Circle’s protection. He spends his days fighting off demons from the Underworld and trying to earn a living to keep the bills paid and a roof over his and his mothers head.
Chase spent the first 15 years of his life living and training in the Circle but everything he has been taught and was led to believe changes when he has a run-in with a half-demon named Rayna and a Hunter named Marcus who happens to be Chase’s dads ex-partner and believed dead.
Chase has always thought demons (which include Vamps, trolls, witches, shifters etc) are bad so is shocked to learn about Rayna who is part witch with shifters eyes/part hunter. When they discover the Circle’s plan to unleash pure-blood demons into the world, they take it upon themselves to work out a way to put a stop to it before all hell breaks loose. There was non-stop action, mystery and suspense throughout which I absolutely loved; there was never a dull moment and quite a few unexpected twists and turns.
This is only the second book I have read with a male as the main character and I certainly have an appreciation for it, Chase was amazing in every way possible and I loved the relationship he had with his mother, the bond they shared was beautiful. Exiled is written from Chase’s POV which I thoroughly enjoyed.
Each of the secondary characters were well-developed and compelling, Rayna I absolutely adored, she was sassy, snarky, kick-butt yet compassionate and she worked alongside Chase perfectly, their interactions were intense and entertaining from the moment they first met; they were a pair you wouldn’t want to mess with. Willy, Vincent, Ishmar, Tiki and Marcus were also fabulous in there own ways and played an important role in this story.
I was literally a blubbering mess at the end, a heart-wrenching moment which I won’t reveal but certainly tugged at the heart-strings.
Exiled was fast paced and engaging, I loved Mr Merrick’s writing style, the banter and the dialogue between Rayna and Chase had me laughing out loud, I loved every word.The plot was solid, the world-building amazing and the characterizations spot on – I enjoyed every single moment of this book and cannot recommend it highly enough.
All in all, Exiled is fantastic paranormal/fantasy debut novel, I couldn’t put it down at all and I’m really looking forward to reading more books written by this amazing author.
Exiled is all sorts of amazing! It is the first book in The Protector series and pulled me in from the very first page.
Mr Merrick has written a real page turner, the main hero is Chase Williams – an exiled Demon Hunter forced out of the Circle (a group of Guardians protecting the human world) with his mother for not obtaining his power over an element on his 15th birthday – he has disgraced his father who saw him only as his legacy and has lost the Circle’s protection. He spends his days fighting off demons from the Underworld and trying to earn a living to keep the bills paid and a roof over his and his mothers head.
Chase spent the first 15 years of his life living and training in the Circle but everything he has been taught and was led to believe changes when he has a run-in with a half-demon named Rayna and a Hunter named Marcus who happens to be Chase’s dads ex-partner and believed dead.
Chase has always thought demons (which include Vamps, trolls, witches, shifters etc) are bad so is shocked to learn about Rayna who is part witch with shifters eyes/part hunter. When they discover the Circle’s plan to unleash pure-blood demons into the world, they take it upon themselves to work out a way to put a stop to it before all hell breaks loose. There was non-stop action, mystery and suspense throughout which I absolutely loved; there was never a dull moment and quite a few unexpected twists and turns.
This is only the second book I have read with a male as the main character and I certainly have an appreciation for it, Chase was amazing in every way possible and I loved the relationship he had with his mother, the bond they shared was beautiful. Exiled is written from Chase’s POV which I thoroughly enjoyed.
Each of the secondary characters were well-developed and compelling, Rayna I absolutely adored, she was sassy, snarky, kick-butt yet compassionate and she worked alongside Chase perfectly, their interactions were intense and entertaining from the moment they first met; they were a pair you wouldn’t want to mess with. Willy, Vincent, Ishmar, Tiki and Marcus were also fabulous in there own ways and played an important role in this story.
I was literally a blubbering mess at the end, a heart-wrenching moment which I won’t reveal but certainly tugged at the heart-strings.
Exiled was fast paced and engaging, I loved Mr Merrick’s writing style, the banter and the dialogue between Rayna and Chase had me laughing out loud, I loved every word.The plot was solid, the world-building amazing and the characterizations spot on – I enjoyed every single moment of this book and cannot recommend it highly enough.
All in all, Exiled is fantastic paranormal/fantasy debut novel, I couldn’t put it down at all and I’m really looking forward to reading more books written by this amazing author.
May 23, 2013
I should first admit that this was the first Indie book I've ever read. Sad, I know! The thing was that I figured Indie books would be very hit or miss, but I guess the same could really be said for any book. My biggest fear was that I'm Twitter-pals with M.R. Merrick and he's an AWESOME human being, but what if I didn't like his book? Really glad to say that wasn't the case ;)
Merrick offers us a fresh, new take on an old concept. Chase, our male lead was trained to be a Hunter (the good guys) but when he is exiled by his father for not having an elemental power, he and his mother are forced to live on their own, away from the refuge of The Circle. However, just because he's not officially a part of that world anymore does not mean he's not still a target for Demons (the bad guys). One day, during a battle with a demon, he's rescued...er...helped by another Hunter, Marcus who was working alongside a demon, Rayna. Wait, aren't demons supposed to be bad? This was a huge turning point for Chase because he's forced to rethink everything he's ever learned about Hunters versus Demons.
Chase was a great character because there was so much to him. He was impulsive, protective, vulnerable, strong and a fighter through and through! He did frustrate me at times because he was a bit too impulsive. He meant well, but going off half-cocked usually gets you into more trouble (not less). Rayna was a total badass! I love strong female leads and this chick is as tough as they come, but she too has her share of vulnerabilities. One of my favorite aspects of reading any book is character growth and I loved watching these two characters mature and learn to trust in each other. Of course, we can't forget the secondary characters. Merrick gives us a motley crew of Hunters and Demons who have to work together, even when they're at odds with each other and most of it is quite humorous. (Side note: You'll learn a bit more about them over the course of this week's feature posts *wink*)
As for world building, Merrick gets two thumbs up from this gal. There are actually three worlds in this book and he connected them together almost seamlessly. Each world is vastly different and completely fascinating and all relevant to the plot of the book. They were all beautifully described and it's just as easy to get lost in them as Chase and Rayna did. There's also no lack of action! The fight scenes practically leaped off the page and I was tempted to duck a few times. Ok...not really...but you get my point!
With layered and likable characters, an interesting plot, solid world-building, and good writing, this was a wonderful debut to what promises to be a great series by M. R. Merrick.
Actual Rating: 4.5 stars
Read review on Book Soulmates: http://booksoulmates.blogspot.com/201...
Merrick offers us a fresh, new take on an old concept. Chase, our male lead was trained to be a Hunter (the good guys) but when he is exiled by his father for not having an elemental power, he and his mother are forced to live on their own, away from the refuge of The Circle. However, just because he's not officially a part of that world anymore does not mean he's not still a target for Demons (the bad guys). One day, during a battle with a demon, he's rescued...er...helped by another Hunter, Marcus who was working alongside a demon, Rayna. Wait, aren't demons supposed to be bad? This was a huge turning point for Chase because he's forced to rethink everything he's ever learned about Hunters versus Demons.
Chase was a great character because there was so much to him. He was impulsive, protective, vulnerable, strong and a fighter through and through! He did frustrate me at times because he was a bit too impulsive. He meant well, but going off half-cocked usually gets you into more trouble (not less). Rayna was a total badass! I love strong female leads and this chick is as tough as they come, but she too has her share of vulnerabilities. One of my favorite aspects of reading any book is character growth and I loved watching these two characters mature and learn to trust in each other. Of course, we can't forget the secondary characters. Merrick gives us a motley crew of Hunters and Demons who have to work together, even when they're at odds with each other and most of it is quite humorous. (Side note: You'll learn a bit more about them over the course of this week's feature posts *wink*)
As for world building, Merrick gets two thumbs up from this gal. There are actually three worlds in this book and he connected them together almost seamlessly. Each world is vastly different and completely fascinating and all relevant to the plot of the book. They were all beautifully described and it's just as easy to get lost in them as Chase and Rayna did. There's also no lack of action! The fight scenes practically leaped off the page and I was tempted to duck a few times. Ok...not really...but you get my point!
With layered and likable characters, an interesting plot, solid world-building, and good writing, this was a wonderful debut to what promises to be a great series by M. R. Merrick.
Actual Rating: 4.5 stars
Read review on Book Soulmates: http://booksoulmates.blogspot.com/201...
October 22, 2011
This is not first time that I’ve read something that I didn’t feel as enthused as everyone did. I’ve just gone through the reviews for this on Goodreads and everyone seems to be in complete agreement. Heck, it averages 4.74 stars, a quick indication that it truly is an awesome read.
Once again, I’m on the outside looking in.
This book is short, and such, should’ve taken me a day or two – tops to read. But I’ve had this fermenting on my currently reading shelf since last Saturday and it just wasn’t holding my attention. For the life of me, I can’t figure out why that is. Surely, I can’t complain about the writing. It was done perfectly well. There is something about the author's style that I found refreshing, direct to the point and most certainly non-convoluted. It’s not even the world building because MR Merrick created one that parallels an exceptional paranormal world where vampires, shifters, witches and warlocks were the norm.
I have a feeling that my reading taste is evolving. Vampires no longer excite me – heck, other mythical creatures no longer excite me. Should I really feel bad that I’m feeling a bit excluded from everyone’s enthusiasm over this book? A little bit. I found myself asking, “What the heck am I missing?”
This book is written from a male’s POV, a rare find amongst the hundreds of books in my reading pile. I usually enjoy those – but I couldn’t with this book. There is a certain detachment to Chase that I regretfully, unable to empathize. I also couldn’t summon enough interest to find out what Rayna was. I feel so bad because I think I’m not giving this book a fighting chance and doubly awful because this is from my Indie shelf.
Perhaps I should’ve just stopped halfway through the book and re-shelved it for future reading but I pushed on because I kept hoping that the book would incite some excitement in me. The funny thing is, this book was paced well. There was no lull as soon as you get to page one. The action was non-stop, enough to give you a pulse pounding high. But I was at an automaton mode, reading for the sake of that feeling I get after i finished a book - accomplished and somehow sated by the fact that I gave the book a chance.
I think this is the most contradicting review I’ve written as of yet. I can’t fault the book or the author but I can honestly say, that this time, it’s all on me, folks.
It just wasn’t my book.
Once again, I’m on the outside looking in.
This book is short, and such, should’ve taken me a day or two – tops to read. But I’ve had this fermenting on my currently reading shelf since last Saturday and it just wasn’t holding my attention. For the life of me, I can’t figure out why that is. Surely, I can’t complain about the writing. It was done perfectly well. There is something about the author's style that I found refreshing, direct to the point and most certainly non-convoluted. It’s not even the world building because MR Merrick created one that parallels an exceptional paranormal world where vampires, shifters, witches and warlocks were the norm.
I have a feeling that my reading taste is evolving. Vampires no longer excite me – heck, other mythical creatures no longer excite me. Should I really feel bad that I’m feeling a bit excluded from everyone’s enthusiasm over this book? A little bit. I found myself asking, “What the heck am I missing?”
This book is written from a male’s POV, a rare find amongst the hundreds of books in my reading pile. I usually enjoy those – but I couldn’t with this book. There is a certain detachment to Chase that I regretfully, unable to empathize. I also couldn’t summon enough interest to find out what Rayna was. I feel so bad because I think I’m not giving this book a fighting chance and doubly awful because this is from my Indie shelf.
Perhaps I should’ve just stopped halfway through the book and re-shelved it for future reading but I pushed on because I kept hoping that the book would incite some excitement in me. The funny thing is, this book was paced well. There was no lull as soon as you get to page one. The action was non-stop, enough to give you a pulse pounding high. But I was at an automaton mode, reading for the sake of that feeling I get after i finished a book - accomplished and somehow sated by the fact that I gave the book a chance.
I think this is the most contradicting review I’ve written as of yet. I can’t fault the book or the author but I can honestly say, that this time, it’s all on me, folks.
It just wasn’t my book.
April 5, 2016
Chase Williams is a hunter within the Circle who lives with his parents. His mom a water elemental and his dad a fire elemental. During his ceremony where his element is called forth, nothing happens. His own father denounces his son and wife and together they are exiled to live with humans.
Now I had reason to believe this was targeted towards boys but even so I enjoyed reading it very much. There's enough action packed into these pages as many as there are words. The story keeps us moving along and it gains momentum until the climax which wasn't too surprising. Nonetheless, the characters, plot, and setting all tied nicely together which added to the development of the story. The fight scenes are descriptive and fast and I couldn't help but be intrigued as I watch them battle it out in my imagination.
Chase is an arrogant hero, yet his intentions are pure and when he finds The Circle are not what they seem to be, he is resistant at first but there was too much evidence to back up the claims. Rayna on the other hand is quick to act, and has a lot more fight in her than most of the characters I read about. All the secondary characters like bad-ass vampire Vincent and resourceful but scaredy-cat demon Willy all add to te story and don't deter the reader from the plot.
Truly, a story worth reading and I can't wait what M.R. Merrick has in store for Chase and his demon hunting skills.
Now I had reason to believe this was targeted towards boys but even so I enjoyed reading it very much. There's enough action packed into these pages as many as there are words. The story keeps us moving along and it gains momentum until the climax which wasn't too surprising. Nonetheless, the characters, plot, and setting all tied nicely together which added to the development of the story. The fight scenes are descriptive and fast and I couldn't help but be intrigued as I watch them battle it out in my imagination.
Chase is an arrogant hero, yet his intentions are pure and when he finds The Circle are not what they seem to be, he is resistant at first but there was too much evidence to back up the claims. Rayna on the other hand is quick to act, and has a lot more fight in her than most of the characters I read about. All the secondary characters like bad-ass vampire Vincent and resourceful but scaredy-cat demon Willy all add to te story and don't deter the reader from the plot.
Truly, a story worth reading and I can't wait what M.R. Merrick has in store for Chase and his demon hunting skills.
September 21, 2011
My Thoughts:
The summary of this book sounded so good. So, when Matt contacted me to review it I was very excited to read it. I get the cover too, after reading it. At 1st I was like... "wassssup with the tree?" But now, after reading it I think the cover fits perfectly.
This book had so much action. From page one. I was very in the book. Literally, all day! The story doesn't concentrate on love. There is no love triangle. You are not filled with so much overwhelming information, that it is hard for you to understand what is going on. M. R. Merrick brings the story to life while you are reading it. Every description. Every battle. Every moment it felt like you were their. Feeling what the characters were. Fighting with Chase until the very end. The style of M. R. Merrick's writing is impeccable.
Chase is sent away from everything that he has known his whole life. He was exiled, along with his mother. Sent away without a care from anyone besides his mother, Tessa. He never received his power. His father, Riley, is a heartless man. Who only cares about one thing. Power.
For FULL review Please go to: http://www.betweenthepagesreviews.com...
The summary of this book sounded so good. So, when Matt contacted me to review it I was very excited to read it. I get the cover too, after reading it. At 1st I was like... "wassssup with the tree?" But now, after reading it I think the cover fits perfectly.
This book had so much action. From page one. I was very in the book. Literally, all day! The story doesn't concentrate on love. There is no love triangle. You are not filled with so much overwhelming information, that it is hard for you to understand what is going on. M. R. Merrick brings the story to life while you are reading it. Every description. Every battle. Every moment it felt like you were their. Feeling what the characters were. Fighting with Chase until the very end. The style of M. R. Merrick's writing is impeccable.
Chase is sent away from everything that he has known his whole life. He was exiled, along with his mother. Sent away without a care from anyone besides his mother, Tessa. He never received his power. His father, Riley, is a heartless man. Who only cares about one thing. Power.
For FULL review Please go to: http://www.betweenthepagesreviews.com...
March 18, 2012
A lot of the reviews on here said the writing was very childish and not great. I have to disagree. I enjoyed the writing of this particular novel. I thought MR Merrick did a nice job setting the scene early on in the book and throughout the book. The idea of "The Circle" was a bit hokey but it fit the premise of what Chase and his mother were dealing with. I really enjoyed the demon hunter working with the demons on this one. I found the female lead Rayna fun and edgy with a take no BS attitude and I liked that.
The character of Marcus and his connection to Chase's mother was great. It was not a love thing which I have to say I respected, but it was a bond that was very nice to see. I did not like Chase's father in the least but I can understand his issue of his son not seeming to have power. I did not agree with the exile at all and I found him to be a huge asshole. (Just my opinion of course) I am looking forward to the next book in this series as I will be reading it. I may also be picking this up as a physical book as this was read as a freebie on my Kindle. I give this 4 stars due to the idea of "The Circle" I think there could have been a better name chosen.
The character of Marcus and his connection to Chase's mother was great. It was not a love thing which I have to say I respected, but it was a bond that was very nice to see. I did not like Chase's father in the least but I can understand his issue of his son not seeming to have power. I did not agree with the exile at all and I found him to be a huge asshole. (Just my opinion of course) I am looking forward to the next book in this series as I will be reading it. I may also be picking this up as a physical book as this was read as a freebie on my Kindle. I give this 4 stars due to the idea of "The Circle" I think there could have been a better name chosen.
February 16, 2012
I picked up Exiled because of all the hype surrounding Shift. I though perhaps M.R. Merrick is just extremely good at P.R., but people seemed to genuinely love this series, so I thought I would give it a try. While M.R. Merrick may be a PR genius, he is also a talented author. Exiled was a very fun read! It was extremely fast paced with never a dull moment, but it was executed well. No confused faces or flipping back trying to figure out what was going on. Nope, overall I was very pleased with the story. Chase is a likable fellow and made an excellent main character: brave and loyal, even when his worldview starts to crumble. I also loved the strong female characters. Rayna is an awesome, kick-butt kind of girl and I loved her from the start. I also liked Tessa, Chase’s mom. She seems so kind and motherly, but when the time comes, she can kick butt with the best of them!
Overall, a great book I would recommend to anyone looking for an action-packed adventure complete with magic, demons, vampires and really awesome birds. 4 stars from me! Now I just need to go buy Shift...
Overall, a great book I would recommend to anyone looking for an action-packed adventure complete with magic, demons, vampires and really awesome birds. 4 stars from me! Now I just need to go buy Shift...
December 3, 2011
Review: 5x5
WOW! Let me just say that I totally loved this story!! You have demon hunters, demons, witches, warlocks, halfies, and The Circle. This is an action packed thrill ride that will blow your socks off.
Chase, well he is just an intense character! He is fiercely loyal to his mother and slowly comes to trust some others. He has a great personality and you will like him instantly! Chase' mother has the same great personality as her son or should I say he gets that from her? They are on their own and it's her and him always.
Step in Rayna, she throws a wrench in his life, but in a good way. She is an amazing character and I can't wait to see more of her!
The story line is a great original spin on things and takes you at a fast pace. The world building is spot on and the world created will leave you in awe. Get this book NOW and enjoy the ride!!
WOW! Let me just say that I totally loved this story!! You have demon hunters, demons, witches, warlocks, halfies, and The Circle. This is an action packed thrill ride that will blow your socks off.
Chase, well he is just an intense character! He is fiercely loyal to his mother and slowly comes to trust some others. He has a great personality and you will like him instantly! Chase' mother has the same great personality as her son or should I say he gets that from her? They are on their own and it's her and him always.
Step in Rayna, she throws a wrench in his life, but in a good way. She is an amazing character and I can't wait to see more of her!
The story line is a great original spin on things and takes you at a fast pace. The world building is spot on and the world created will leave you in awe. Get this book NOW and enjoy the ride!!
May 3, 2012
This is an extremely fast paced exciting read. The plot line is one that I found interesting and Mr Merrick did not let me down. I grow tired of the typical lengthy plot intro, massive amounts of back story, tons of introductory character development and then small snippets of action. If that is what you are looking for then this book is not for you. If you like fast paced action, epic fights, on the fly character development (which I found I relate more to charaters this way) and a new and fresh look at a good vs. evil with a twist then grab this book. Be carefull when finishing the book though, you will need to have the second book, Shift close at hand. M.R. Merrick's portrayal of Chase and his struggle to find himself throughout the book is one of the highlights. He depicts his struggles with his father, his beliefs, and his new found abilities flawlessly.
July 23, 2011
Excellence in it's purest form. Fantastic pace, from beginning to end the book never let's break. The writing style and plot was stunning, it will keep you guessing. The characters were marvelously created. The author has an amazing talent for character building and development. Over all this book was a complete WOW factor I still can't believe. I definitely will move this to the top of my recommend list. Buy the book, you'll love it.
October 4, 2011
Very well written!!
July 31, 2011
4.5 Stars to be exact - Fans of The Mortal Instruments series by Cassandra Clare will LOVE this book! See full review here: http://www.memyshelfandi.com/2011/07/...
September 12, 2016
(a similar version of this review can be found here at Into the Hall of Books: http://www.intothehallofbooks.com/201...)
Boy you are a sly one, Merrick! You basically handed this story to me - also widely available to everybody - and pretty much made my day. Reading EXILED was like watching one of my favorite movies on TV - I'm thinking something like Matrix meets Underworld... There was tons of action and fighting and sword and daggers and stuff. It was awesome.
1. The Characters.
All of these characters are super likable, developed well, and deserve awards of some sort for being the kind of characters you love to read.
2. The Magic & Elements. The members of The Circle and The Underworld use not only regular methods of fighting - swords and kicking and stuff - but they are able to use magic and elements to help. The magic is fun although sometimes pretty dark...but it is the author's use of the elements that sort of won my heart. See, Chase's father Riley could manipulate fire to his advantage - he used it to fight and kill. Chase's mother could use water to fight and to heal. On the day that Chase became an official hunter, his element should have shown itself and become apparent - that's how it usually worked - but no element chose him, which led to his exile. Ridiculed among his own for this, Chase was an outcast. Despite this, however, Chase was a very powerful hunter because of who is father was - if Chase ever were to gain elements, the bad guys had better watch out...
3. The World. The majority of the book takes place in and outside of Stonewall, which is a town in a world much like ours except it is crawling with things like vampires, witches, demons, werewolves, and warlocks. In all honesty, the world Chase lives in isn't all that outstanding in terms of world-building - because it's a regular world. The demon creatures use glamour (you know, like tricking our human eyes to not see the things they can see?) to hide their Underworld hangouts and places so they can blend in easily. HOWEVER, there is another world in this book that we get taken to and WOWSERS it was a feast for this girl. Nothing was like Stonewall and everything was awesome. The author used his imagination like crazy to create this sort-of parallel universe that not only had the types of underworlders that I just mentioned, but also goblins, trolls, and giants too. The landscape was different, the atmosphere was different, and the animals were different. LOVED it.
4. The Story. The story is all-systems-go from the first scene until the last scene. The pacing is fast and the plot is awesome. I won't go into any details about it here because to do so is to spoil it big-time, but just trust me when I say that if you are looking for a good time and an action-driven plot, you need to read this book.
5. The Romance. There is great chemistry between Chase and Rayna throughout the book, but it is toward the end that some deeper feelings start to slowly come out. Throughout EXILED, however, the two never show interest in anyone else, and the feelings that they have for each other develop slowly. In fact, I feel like it is okay to tell you (since this is book one of a series) that at the end of this book, the feelings are STILL slow-burn developing. I like it.
6. The Cover. You guys, I never really understood the cover for EXILED - but I realize now that it is because I hadn't read the book. I totally get it now. ELEMENTS, y'all. Fire and water. On the cover. Makes perfect sense. Brilliant.
Friends, I picked up EXILED after reading two contemporary YA books and it was the perfect post-contemporary Sunday afternoon read for me. I was fist pumping and cheering on the antics of this crazy demon-hunting team. While the story may have been a teensy bit predictable here or there, I didn't care at all because I was having the time of my life while I was reading it. The author has created a strong, action-packed beginning to a series that is well-deserving of the mad love that everyone is giving it.
I love the story and I love how it picked up right away. I love the action and all of the fighting (hooray for swords, daggers, and the butt-kicking female!). I loved the mythology of all of the creatures. I loved holding my breath in the bigger fights and catching my breath at all the right places. I love the fact that Merrick used almost all of the paranormals that we know in the same book and even threw in a portal to another universe. It all worked together really well, and I'm PUMPED that I have SHIFT (book two) waiting for me so I can keep going with this story.
I need to know what's happening next! There are things, you guys...things that happened at the end that make me wonder where the plot is headed...So you know what I'm gonna do? I'm gonna keep on with the next book. I love Chase and Rayna and I need to see what they're gonna do with the situation they've been dealt. MY recommendation to YOU is that you start with EXILED pretty quickly if you like action-packed stories with swords, daggers, and paranormals.
**I received a review copy from the author in exchange for an honest opinion and review. I received no compensation for my thoughts. Thank you SO MUCH, Matt!
Boy you are a sly one, Merrick! You basically handed this story to me - also widely available to everybody - and pretty much made my day. Reading EXILED was like watching one of my favorite movies on TV - I'm thinking something like Matrix meets Underworld... There was tons of action and fighting and sword and daggers and stuff. It was awesome.
Let's Discuss:
1. The Characters.
**Chase & Rayna. Chase is a demon hunter - not just any regular demon hunter, but one without an element. Since this was disgraceful and disgusting to his father, Chase was exiled from The Circle a few years ago along with his mother. Rayna enters the scene as a demon - Chase is alerted to her right away and tries to fight/kill her. However, he soon realizes that she isn't a bad demon and therefore it wouldn't be right to kill her. WHAT? You mean not all demons are bad? ~ Since learning new information about demons and other underworlders being not-always-bad, Chase's world is basically turned upside down pretty hard-core. And Rayna, well, she's not only not-bad, she's half-demon & half-hunter: a half-breed! Chase has no idea what to make of things at all. But he likes the way she looks. But wait! she's a filthy demon, he can't have those thoughts, right? ~ Chase and Rayna make a great team and they have super great chemistry. I like them both, although I really love a good butt-kicking female that can hold her own anyday. Rayna makes Chase look good, in my opinion, especially since he makes a few mistakes here and there. But DO NOT count Chase Williams out, my friends. He has some qualities that are redeeming, sexy, and awesome. LOVE these two.
**Marcus Starkraven. Marcus is a towering, dark figure that comes outta nowhere when Rayna and Chase are fighting. But he's a good guy. Before faking his death, Marcus was a demon-hunting member of The Circle. Marcus left the group when he realized they were corrupt and up to no good. He came across Rayna, an outcast among both The Circle and The Underworld, and he took her in. Marcus taught her well, taught her to be kind and good, because that is what he is. He is also wise and very strong. He is a central figure in the story, although he is not the main character. Basically, even though Marcus isn't in every scene, he is awesome. I can imagine he wears his sunglasses indoors and at night.
**The Secondary Cast. MAN I wish I could list them all and talk about them all for days. There's Willy the demon, who will win everyone's heart with his stutter and shy selflessness. There's Vincent, the powerful, well-dressed, very rich vampire that can communicate with his mind and acts as a go-between between Chase/Rayna and The Underworlders - for a price, of course. Vincent's role is large and his character is tons of fun. There's Riley Williams, Chase's awful father, who is just...so bad. So bad that you can't help but like him as a villain. There's Tessa Williams, Chase's sweet and kind mother, who teaches him well, treats him like a king, and gives to him even when she goes without. I loved Tessa. And there's Tiki, the warrior from the other world that looks very different but helps Chase in very big ways.
All of these characters are super likable, developed well, and deserve awards of some sort for being the kind of characters you love to read.
2. The Magic & Elements. The members of The Circle and The Underworld use not only regular methods of fighting - swords and kicking and stuff - but they are able to use magic and elements to help. The magic is fun although sometimes pretty dark...but it is the author's use of the elements that sort of won my heart. See, Chase's father Riley could manipulate fire to his advantage - he used it to fight and kill. Chase's mother could use water to fight and to heal. On the day that Chase became an official hunter, his element should have shown itself and become apparent - that's how it usually worked - but no element chose him, which led to his exile. Ridiculed among his own for this, Chase was an outcast. Despite this, however, Chase was a very powerful hunter because of who is father was - if Chase ever were to gain elements, the bad guys had better watch out...
3. The World. The majority of the book takes place in and outside of Stonewall, which is a town in a world much like ours except it is crawling with things like vampires, witches, demons, werewolves, and warlocks. In all honesty, the world Chase lives in isn't all that outstanding in terms of world-building - because it's a regular world. The demon creatures use glamour (you know, like tricking our human eyes to not see the things they can see?) to hide their Underworld hangouts and places so they can blend in easily. HOWEVER, there is another world in this book that we get taken to and WOWSERS it was a feast for this girl. Nothing was like Stonewall and everything was awesome. The author used his imagination like crazy to create this sort-of parallel universe that not only had the types of underworlders that I just mentioned, but also goblins, trolls, and giants too. The landscape was different, the atmosphere was different, and the animals were different. LOVED it.
4. The Story. The story is all-systems-go from the first scene until the last scene. The pacing is fast and the plot is awesome. I won't go into any details about it here because to do so is to spoil it big-time, but just trust me when I say that if you are looking for a good time and an action-driven plot, you need to read this book.
5. The Romance. There is great chemistry between Chase and Rayna throughout the book, but it is toward the end that some deeper feelings start to slowly come out. Throughout EXILED, however, the two never show interest in anyone else, and the feelings that they have for each other develop slowly. In fact, I feel like it is okay to tell you (since this is book one of a series) that at the end of this book, the feelings are STILL slow-burn developing. I like it.
6. The Cover. You guys, I never really understood the cover for EXILED - but I realize now that it is because I hadn't read the book. I totally get it now. ELEMENTS, y'all. Fire and water. On the cover. Makes perfect sense. Brilliant.
Friends, I picked up EXILED after reading two contemporary YA books and it was the perfect post-contemporary Sunday afternoon read for me. I was fist pumping and cheering on the antics of this crazy demon-hunting team. While the story may have been a teensy bit predictable here or there, I didn't care at all because I was having the time of my life while I was reading it. The author has created a strong, action-packed beginning to a series that is well-deserving of the mad love that everyone is giving it.
I love the story and I love how it picked up right away. I love the action and all of the fighting (hooray for swords, daggers, and the butt-kicking female!). I loved the mythology of all of the creatures. I loved holding my breath in the bigger fights and catching my breath at all the right places. I love the fact that Merrick used almost all of the paranormals that we know in the same book and even threw in a portal to another universe. It all worked together really well, and I'm PUMPED that I have SHIFT (book two) waiting for me so I can keep going with this story.
I need to know what's happening next! There are things, you guys...things that happened at the end that make me wonder where the plot is headed...So you know what I'm gonna do? I'm gonna keep on with the next book. I love Chase and Rayna and I need to see what they're gonna do with the situation they've been dealt. MY recommendation to YOU is that you start with EXILED pretty quickly if you like action-packed stories with swords, daggers, and paranormals.
EXILED will appeal to fans of:
Swords and Daggers
Butt-Kicking Females
Urban Fantasy/Paranormal
Action-Driven Stories with Excellent Characterization
Slowly developing friendship-into-romance; No love triangle
Quick pacing
Stories that contain magic with the use of the elements
EXILED by M.R. Merrick is currently available for purchase.
**I received a review copy from the author in exchange for an honest opinion and review. I received no compensation for my thoughts. Thank you SO MUCH, Matt!
August 18, 2012
4.5 Stars
Recommendation : If you enjoy books like the Percy Jackson series, about a boy coming of age with challenges and danger all around than give this book a try. It really does stand out among the Young Adult Paranormal Genre.
Look at that cover! I love it! Love. It.
I absolutely love books that are not the typical girl or guy on the cover. I love trying to figure out what part of the book resembles the cover, it’s like a game of pictionary but more like covionary. lol Okay I am done with that. You get the idea.
This book hooked me from the beginning. Now you will have to forgive me because while I was reading this I kept flashing to Percy Jackson. If you know the series I am talking about than you know how awesome it was so seriously give this book a try!
Chase Williams has blond hair and blue eyes but the overall feel that Logan Lerman had in the movie is how I picture Chase. That kid that knows he has to do what needs to be done and just does it. He takes no shit from people but he still makes mistakes because he is at that point in life where he is transitioning from teenager to adult.
Now back to what I was saying about the beginning of the book. We get a glimpse of what Chase might be before we get a flashback.
“I knew the scratches would fade, the scabs would heal, and the throbbing ache of having been thrown into a brick wall would be gone. By tomorrow I’d be good as new: one of the few perks to being a hunter.”
Oh yeah this is going to get good. We got a hunter who is going to go out and hunt down evil.
Then we shift into how Chase got to be where he is. Let me tell you it is a sad, sad story. I have to say it, I cried during this book. Just letting you know up front there are some tear-jerker moments.
We flashback to Chase having just completed killing a demon and he is getting ready to find out what gift he has been given that will aid him. Now this part is cool because these gifts are elemental. His father has fire and his mother water. So it is up in the air about what he is going to get.
“But there wasn’t even a spark.”
Well you can imagine that it devastated him. But that wasn’t the worst part of it all. Oh no! His father goes and throws Chase’s mother out because no son of his could ever be without a power, therefore he must not be his son.
Horrible, Terrible, No Good, Very Bad things were running through my mind that I want to do to his father! Seriously, that is just F*-ing ridiculous.
So Chase and his mother now have to live outside of the Circle. Honestly, that was the best thing for them, but like most hard choices in life, it takes Chase a while to see that.
Now Chase is living in a crappy apartment with his mother who works herself to the bone. Chase has almost daily attacks by demons who are out to prove they can best Riley Williams son, since he is a legend among the hunters & demons.
One day Chase runs into someone he didn’t expect. A half-blood who actually helped him kill a demon. Man, is he ever confused. The boy can’t help but be attracted to her but with her being half-demon he is also repulsed too.
Meet Rayna :
“Raven hair spilled over her pale shoulders with hints of red highlighting the occasional strand. A tight leather top revealed a sliver of toned stomach and a tease of cleavage. Black pants hugged her hips and long slender legs and met knee-high boots. Her skin glistened in the light, but the most noticeable of her features were her eyes.
Bright green orbs sparkled with an odd glow: demon’s eyes. They had the slit pupils of a cat that I’d never seen on anything other than a house pet or a shifter in animal form.”
But the interesting part is that Chase’s father’s old “dead” partner (yes I know that is a mouthful) happens to be Rayna’s keeper. I know interesting twist right. Marcus Starkraven offers to help Chase out. However, Chase is in overload so he decides to sit on this information till he has a chance to digest it.
Once at home he finds out that his mother has known about Marcus all along and encourages him to take Marcus up on his offer.
“We’re giving you an opportunity to belong to something and not fight alone for what you believe in. Believe me when I say that feels pretty good.”
We all see where this is going, right? Chase goes over to Marcus’ place and he gets to workout and train etc. But while that is taking place Chase and Rayna are trying to track down what the Circle’s big secret is. Something is going down and they want to know what. Rayna gets to take him into territory where demons aren’t that different from hunters or humans. The question remains : Can he change the way he was raised to think in order to fight for what is right?
You will just have to read it to find out. *wink* *wink*
Challenge Time:
Oh yes, Chase does have to face a challenge or two throughout this book. I don’t want to give it all away. All I can say is that it is really cool and Chase may or may not find out he has a talent after all. Just Saying.
The ending of this book was bittersweet but I think it was a perfect start to a great series. I can honestly say that I am looking forward to reading the next book Shift. So…
If you are looking for a book that:
*is about a boy becoming a man
*complete with challenges to fulfill deals
*danger from all sides
*protecting the innocent
&
*finding out where one belongs
“You and me, always.”
Than you need to read this book because it is definitely for you.
What I loved about this book :
*I loved the challenges that Chase faces in order to find what he is looking for.
*I loved Chase’s mother and thought she was important role model.
*I loved that M.R. Merrick used elemental powers. I honestly haven’t read very many books with this kind of setting. I think the only other one that comes to mind is Jennifer Estep’s Elemental Assassin series.
*I thought that the flashbacks were a great way to slowly introduce history that we, the reader, needed to know. I loved that we weren’t hit over the head with fact upon fact. There was always just enough for us to get the idea but never letting on to too much.
*Rayna’s character was hard not to fall in love with. She has that sassy-sweet-do-what-I-say-or-die vibe. I loved it! It is always refreshing to have a heroine who can keep up with the hero and not rely on him to get everything done.
*Riley Williams played the perfect douchebag-of-the-year or life father! Honestly, from the moment he entered the story I just wanted to hate him and did well still do.
*Last, but not least, that ending was pure gold. I can’t believe that M.R. Merrick went there with the first book but Damn, it was tragically awesome.
The reason it did not get 5 Stars:
Obviously it is only .5 away from a 5 star rating so I don’t have much to say in this area. I really only found one thing that didn’t sit well with the rest.
*There were a few spots scattered here and there where the flow seemed to become disrupted. It seemed like Mr. Merrick knew what needed to be said but just seemed to miss it just a little. I can’t explain it very well, other than the flow of the words and emotions seemed to break off for half a page or so and then it jumped right back on track.
Favorite Quotes:
“…people fear what they don’t understand.”
“But he’s so cute when he gets all determined and commanding, isn’t he? … It’s not cute, it’s very manly!”
“Take care in your actions, hunter. There will be many who wish you harm. You stand in the way of many wills and they will all try to overcome you. You must remember: you cannot fight fire with fire,”
Before I end I want to thank M.R. Merrick for gifting me a copy of this wonderful book for an honest review.
Recommendation : If you enjoy books like the Percy Jackson series, about a boy coming of age with challenges and danger all around than give this book a try. It really does stand out among the Young Adult Paranormal Genre.
Look at that cover! I love it! Love. It.
I absolutely love books that are not the typical girl or guy on the cover. I love trying to figure out what part of the book resembles the cover, it’s like a game of pictionary but more like covionary. lol Okay I am done with that. You get the idea.
This book hooked me from the beginning. Now you will have to forgive me because while I was reading this I kept flashing to Percy Jackson. If you know the series I am talking about than you know how awesome it was so seriously give this book a try!
Chase Williams has blond hair and blue eyes but the overall feel that Logan Lerman had in the movie is how I picture Chase. That kid that knows he has to do what needs to be done and just does it. He takes no shit from people but he still makes mistakes because he is at that point in life where he is transitioning from teenager to adult.
Now back to what I was saying about the beginning of the book. We get a glimpse of what Chase might be before we get a flashback.
“I knew the scratches would fade, the scabs would heal, and the throbbing ache of having been thrown into a brick wall would be gone. By tomorrow I’d be good as new: one of the few perks to being a hunter.”
Oh yeah this is going to get good. We got a hunter who is going to go out and hunt down evil.
Then we shift into how Chase got to be where he is. Let me tell you it is a sad, sad story. I have to say it, I cried during this book. Just letting you know up front there are some tear-jerker moments.
We flashback to Chase having just completed killing a demon and he is getting ready to find out what gift he has been given that will aid him. Now this part is cool because these gifts are elemental. His father has fire and his mother water. So it is up in the air about what he is going to get.
“But there wasn’t even a spark.”
Well you can imagine that it devastated him. But that wasn’t the worst part of it all. Oh no! His father goes and throws Chase’s mother out because no son of his could ever be without a power, therefore he must not be his son.
Horrible, Terrible, No Good, Very Bad things were running through my mind that I want to do to his father! Seriously, that is just F*-ing ridiculous.
So Chase and his mother now have to live outside of the Circle. Honestly, that was the best thing for them, but like most hard choices in life, it takes Chase a while to see that.
Now Chase is living in a crappy apartment with his mother who works herself to the bone. Chase has almost daily attacks by demons who are out to prove they can best Riley Williams son, since he is a legend among the hunters & demons.
One day Chase runs into someone he didn’t expect. A half-blood who actually helped him kill a demon. Man, is he ever confused. The boy can’t help but be attracted to her but with her being half-demon he is also repulsed too.
Meet Rayna :
“Raven hair spilled over her pale shoulders with hints of red highlighting the occasional strand. A tight leather top revealed a sliver of toned stomach and a tease of cleavage. Black pants hugged her hips and long slender legs and met knee-high boots. Her skin glistened in the light, but the most noticeable of her features were her eyes.
Bright green orbs sparkled with an odd glow: demon’s eyes. They had the slit pupils of a cat that I’d never seen on anything other than a house pet or a shifter in animal form.”
But the interesting part is that Chase’s father’s old “dead” partner (yes I know that is a mouthful) happens to be Rayna’s keeper. I know interesting twist right. Marcus Starkraven offers to help Chase out. However, Chase is in overload so he decides to sit on this information till he has a chance to digest it.
Once at home he finds out that his mother has known about Marcus all along and encourages him to take Marcus up on his offer.
“We’re giving you an opportunity to belong to something and not fight alone for what you believe in. Believe me when I say that feels pretty good.”
We all see where this is going, right? Chase goes over to Marcus’ place and he gets to workout and train etc. But while that is taking place Chase and Rayna are trying to track down what the Circle’s big secret is. Something is going down and they want to know what. Rayna gets to take him into territory where demons aren’t that different from hunters or humans. The question remains : Can he change the way he was raised to think in order to fight for what is right?
You will just have to read it to find out. *wink* *wink*
Challenge Time:
Oh yes, Chase does have to face a challenge or two throughout this book. I don’t want to give it all away. All I can say is that it is really cool and Chase may or may not find out he has a talent after all. Just Saying.
The ending of this book was bittersweet but I think it was a perfect start to a great series. I can honestly say that I am looking forward to reading the next book Shift. So…
If you are looking for a book that:
*is about a boy becoming a man
*complete with challenges to fulfill deals
*danger from all sides
*protecting the innocent
&
*finding out where one belongs
“You and me, always.”
Than you need to read this book because it is definitely for you.
What I loved about this book :
*I loved the challenges that Chase faces in order to find what he is looking for.
*I loved Chase’s mother and thought she was important role model.
*I loved that M.R. Merrick used elemental powers. I honestly haven’t read very many books with this kind of setting. I think the only other one that comes to mind is Jennifer Estep’s Elemental Assassin series.
*I thought that the flashbacks were a great way to slowly introduce history that we, the reader, needed to know. I loved that we weren’t hit over the head with fact upon fact. There was always just enough for us to get the idea but never letting on to too much.
*Rayna’s character was hard not to fall in love with. She has that sassy-sweet-do-what-I-say-or-die vibe. I loved it! It is always refreshing to have a heroine who can keep up with the hero and not rely on him to get everything done.
*Riley Williams played the perfect douchebag-of-the-year or life father! Honestly, from the moment he entered the story I just wanted to hate him and did well still do.
*Last, but not least, that ending was pure gold. I can’t believe that M.R. Merrick went there with the first book but Damn, it was tragically awesome.
The reason it did not get 5 Stars:
Obviously it is only .5 away from a 5 star rating so I don’t have much to say in this area. I really only found one thing that didn’t sit well with the rest.
*There were a few spots scattered here and there where the flow seemed to become disrupted. It seemed like Mr. Merrick knew what needed to be said but just seemed to miss it just a little. I can’t explain it very well, other than the flow of the words and emotions seemed to break off for half a page or so and then it jumped right back on track.
Favorite Quotes:
“…people fear what they don’t understand.”
“But he’s so cute when he gets all determined and commanding, isn’t he? … It’s not cute, it’s very manly!”
“Take care in your actions, hunter. There will be many who wish you harm. You stand in the way of many wills and they will all try to overcome you. You must remember: you cannot fight fire with fire,”
Before I end I want to thank M.R. Merrick for gifting me a copy of this wonderful book for an honest review.
January 28, 2012
Chase Williams was exiled.
Unable to tap into his elemental power, the Circle deemed him unworthy and sent him away.
He is a demon hunter.
Even without the protection of the Circle, Chase knows who he is. It’s in his blood. It’s what he was born to be.
He is a fighter.
He fights for what he believes to be right. He fights for the safety of those who can’t fight for themselves. He fights because it’s all he knows.
And now he’s ready to fight back.
Alongside those he once thought were his enemies. Against those he used to call friends. In order to keep a dangerous adversary from unleashing an unimaginable evil on the world.
But he may be too late.
To stop his enemy. To protect his friends. And to save those he loves most.
***
Exiled is an intense, thrilling and action-packed urban fantasy meets epic adventure story with an electrifying pace that will keep readers racing through the pages. With a unique and incredibly imaginative set of characters, from witches to warlocks, from vampires to werecats and from gremlins to giants, this story has them all, and more, and integrates them into the world the author created seamlessly.
Chase Williams is a demon hunter born and raised. But when his elemental powers aren’t revealed to him on his birthday in front of the Circle, not only is he disgraced but so is his father, who immediately chooses sides against him and his mother.
After years in exile things are only getting worse. Not only are the half-demon attacks escalating, but now it seems that someone is kidnapping them, putting them more on edge than ever and making Chase’s life even more dangerous.
When Chase learns that not all Underworlders are the evil monsters he always thought them to be and that the Circle isn’t as righteous, he is forced to question everything he’s learned and everything he knows. And he will have to rely on a mysterious half-demon named Rayna to help him find answers.
Author M.R. Merrick has written an exciting and highly addictive story with Exiled. Told in the first person, his story takes readers to Stonewall where half-demons lurk in the shadows, where exiled hunters fight against the most dangerous of their kind and where a renegade member of the Circle seeks to release an unspeakable evil in their quest for power.
Exiled is a quick read, with captivating characters and an intriguing plot, that grabs hold from the opening sentence and won’t shake readers loose until they’ve experienced the action, discovered the mystery and gone on the adventure with Chase through the dark and dangerous streets of Stonewall to the fantastical fairytale world beyond.
An enthralling one-sit-read filled with action, betrayal, excitement, magic, prophecies, mystery and surprises, Exiled will keep readers submersed in the story and will leave them eager to continue the adventure in the next installment in the series.
On a personal note:
Awesome. Awesome. Awesome. Awesome. Awesome. Ad infinitum.
Wait? Do I have to say something else? Well, I suppose I can find a few more things to say about this book.
Yes. I loved Exiled. I have been wanting to read it for a couple months now. Ever since I first heard about it. I was drawn in by the title. There’s nothing quite like the idea of a character being exiled that will spark my curiosity.
Then there was that cover. What a gorgeous and absolutely perfect match that cover is for the title. The colors, the forlorn image of that tree and the ravaged looking font completely lured me in. And once I read that description… well, I just had to have this book.
I mean, it has demons. And demon hunters. Two of my very favorite types of characters to read about. Still, I didn’t immediately fall in love…. Until I read the first line.
Oh yeah, the claws came out. And I mean literally. Right there in that first sentence.
There was no slow introduction to Chase or to his world. You are right in it from the very beginning. There is no question about how the story will progress from that point. There is no confusion about who Chase is or how he exists.
His world is filled with danger. It’s exciting. It’s action-packed. It’s electrifying. And Chase? He’s fearless. He’s impulsive. He’s a definite risk-taker. And he’s one pretty kick-a** demon hunter.
Yep. Chase is so totally awesome. But what I love most about him is the fact that he isn’t perfect. Which of course makes me love him all the more. He is frustrating. He doesn’t listen. He can be rude at times. He is unbelievably stubborn. But he is also very brave. And he isn’t so stubborn that he isn’t willing to keep an open mind.
The world in Exiled is definitely dark, dangerous and gritty as seen through Chase’s eyes, which is just the kind of world I want to read about. I loved being able to follow Chase as he tried to uncover just what the Circle was up to in his world and in that other one.
I also love Rayna. She’s a total curiosity. I’m still dying to find out exactly… no… no I can’t say what I’m dying to find out about her. But a huge part of the mystery in this story and the next surrounds Rayna.
And I loved reading about all the different types of characters that existed in this book. Some of them good, many of them bad, but all of them interesting and a few rather unique.
How amazingly creative this author is and what a dynamic story he wrote. I absolutely loved it and can’t wait to see what’s coming up next in Shift. And from what I hear, once I start reading that first chapter I won’t be able to put it down.
Unable to tap into his elemental power, the Circle deemed him unworthy and sent him away.
He is a demon hunter.
Even without the protection of the Circle, Chase knows who he is. It’s in his blood. It’s what he was born to be.
He is a fighter.
He fights for what he believes to be right. He fights for the safety of those who can’t fight for themselves. He fights because it’s all he knows.
And now he’s ready to fight back.
Alongside those he once thought were his enemies. Against those he used to call friends. In order to keep a dangerous adversary from unleashing an unimaginable evil on the world.
But he may be too late.
To stop his enemy. To protect his friends. And to save those he loves most.
***
Exiled is an intense, thrilling and action-packed urban fantasy meets epic adventure story with an electrifying pace that will keep readers racing through the pages. With a unique and incredibly imaginative set of characters, from witches to warlocks, from vampires to werecats and from gremlins to giants, this story has them all, and more, and integrates them into the world the author created seamlessly.
Chase Williams is a demon hunter born and raised. But when his elemental powers aren’t revealed to him on his birthday in front of the Circle, not only is he disgraced but so is his father, who immediately chooses sides against him and his mother.
After years in exile things are only getting worse. Not only are the half-demon attacks escalating, but now it seems that someone is kidnapping them, putting them more on edge than ever and making Chase’s life even more dangerous.
When Chase learns that not all Underworlders are the evil monsters he always thought them to be and that the Circle isn’t as righteous, he is forced to question everything he’s learned and everything he knows. And he will have to rely on a mysterious half-demon named Rayna to help him find answers.
Author M.R. Merrick has written an exciting and highly addictive story with Exiled. Told in the first person, his story takes readers to Stonewall where half-demons lurk in the shadows, where exiled hunters fight against the most dangerous of their kind and where a renegade member of the Circle seeks to release an unspeakable evil in their quest for power.
Exiled is a quick read, with captivating characters and an intriguing plot, that grabs hold from the opening sentence and won’t shake readers loose until they’ve experienced the action, discovered the mystery and gone on the adventure with Chase through the dark and dangerous streets of Stonewall to the fantastical fairytale world beyond.
An enthralling one-sit-read filled with action, betrayal, excitement, magic, prophecies, mystery and surprises, Exiled will keep readers submersed in the story and will leave them eager to continue the adventure in the next installment in the series.
On a personal note:
Awesome. Awesome. Awesome. Awesome. Awesome. Ad infinitum.
Wait? Do I have to say something else? Well, I suppose I can find a few more things to say about this book.
Yes. I loved Exiled. I have been wanting to read it for a couple months now. Ever since I first heard about it. I was drawn in by the title. There’s nothing quite like the idea of a character being exiled that will spark my curiosity.
Then there was that cover. What a gorgeous and absolutely perfect match that cover is for the title. The colors, the forlorn image of that tree and the ravaged looking font completely lured me in. And once I read that description… well, I just had to have this book.
I mean, it has demons. And demon hunters. Two of my very favorite types of characters to read about. Still, I didn’t immediately fall in love…. Until I read the first line.
Oh yeah, the claws came out. And I mean literally. Right there in that first sentence.
There was no slow introduction to Chase or to his world. You are right in it from the very beginning. There is no question about how the story will progress from that point. There is no confusion about who Chase is or how he exists.
His world is filled with danger. It’s exciting. It’s action-packed. It’s electrifying. And Chase? He’s fearless. He’s impulsive. He’s a definite risk-taker. And he’s one pretty kick-a** demon hunter.
Yep. Chase is so totally awesome. But what I love most about him is the fact that he isn’t perfect. Which of course makes me love him all the more. He is frustrating. He doesn’t listen. He can be rude at times. He is unbelievably stubborn. But he is also very brave. And he isn’t so stubborn that he isn’t willing to keep an open mind.
The world in Exiled is definitely dark, dangerous and gritty as seen through Chase’s eyes, which is just the kind of world I want to read about. I loved being able to follow Chase as he tried to uncover just what the Circle was up to in his world and in that other one.
I also love Rayna. She’s a total curiosity. I’m still dying to find out exactly… no… no I can’t say what I’m dying to find out about her. But a huge part of the mystery in this story and the next surrounds Rayna.
And I loved reading about all the different types of characters that existed in this book. Some of them good, many of them bad, but all of them interesting and a few rather unique.
How amazingly creative this author is and what a dynamic story he wrote. I absolutely loved it and can’t wait to see what’s coming up next in Shift. And from what I hear, once I start reading that first chapter I won’t be able to put it down.
July 13, 2012
4.5 stars
As posted on booknook - YA book reviews
First, I'd like to Brenna from Esther's Ever After for gifting me a copy of this book! She is such a sweetheart! I had my eye on this series for a while now but just wasn't able to buy my own copy. So thank you Brenna, you're amazing!
Fans of Cassandra Clare's The Mortal Instruments series will love this book! I've actually only read City of Bones so far, but there are a lot of similarities in style between that book and Exiled. I actually liked Exiles more than City of Bones. :D So if you like Cassandra Clare, definitely check out Exiled!
Exiled is a super awesome story about demons, demon hunters, vampires, warlocks, trolls, and more! This is exactly the kind of story I like: magical powers, secret world/society that humans don't know about, corrupt organization, and war! Chase Williams—a demon hunter—is the main character in this story. He's part of an organization called The Circle, the purpose of which is to protect the world from demons. On his fifteenth birthday, he steps up to claim his elemental power, which is passed down through demon hunter bloodlines, but it doesn't come. Since he's now labeled 'powerless,' The Circle decides to exile him and his mother. And awesome, unexpected adventures ensue!
I loved Chase's character because he actually reminded me a lot of myself, and as a girl, I don't usually relate that well to male characters. But I definitely saw a lot of myself in Chase and that was a pleasant surprise for me. He's loyal, determined, a little too stubborn, doesn't like to admit when he's wrong, and often gets a little overpowered by guilt. He's fiercely loyal to his friends so he hates it when his friends are put in danger because of his actions.
Rayna was also a terrific character! She's sexy, badass, super smart, and talented. Rayna is half half-demon and half hunter, and possibly one of a kind. She has so many interesting and unique powers, that even she is still discovering. Plus she has cat eyes — that's awesome.
There was a really interesting almost-romance brewing between Chase and Rayna. They start off kind of hating each other, but soon their jibes start straying away from dislike and towards the kind of playful banter that happens when flirting. Nothing ever officially develops between them, but the tension and chemistry are there, so I really hope this is something we see more of in book 2!
What's great about Exiled is that it's so full of action and there is never a dull moment. Chase is constantly being attacked by demons, striking deals with vampires, or going on some adventure to discover the truth or rescue his friends. There are plenty of battle scenes, some of which are a little gory, but they're all described in wonderful detail and clarity. M.R. Merrick introduces us to a wide variety of characters and creatures, from goblins to trolls to shifters. At one point, Chase acquires an animal companion he names Rai. This is the most awesome bird ever and I totally want one! But she doesn't get introduced until near the end of the story, so I won't reveal too much about her awesomeness. :P
Speaking of the end, it's really quite sad and totally had me tearing up, which was a little embarrassing since I was at an airport. :D But this is definitely an intriguing story that any magic lover or urban fantasy addict will enjoy! There are so many awesome characters, intriguing lore, and new worlds to learn about. Merrick really excelled at creating interesting characters with interesting and unique personalities. Each one had a very distinctive voice and I fell in love with all of them for different reasons.
Exiled is a self published book, but you'd never know it. Many people are turned off by self published books — and I often am too — but I really hope that doesn't dissuade you from picking up Exiled. During my reading, there was never a time where I was thinking, "This is a great story but it could really use some editing." The story flows well, the characters are interesting and develop, and I didn't encounter the spelling/grammatical errors that are often present in self published works. Exiled is a great book and I can't wait to read the second one in the series!
As posted on booknook - YA book reviews
First, I'd like to Brenna from Esther's Ever After for gifting me a copy of this book! She is such a sweetheart! I had my eye on this series for a while now but just wasn't able to buy my own copy. So thank you Brenna, you're amazing!
Fans of Cassandra Clare's The Mortal Instruments series will love this book! I've actually only read City of Bones so far, but there are a lot of similarities in style between that book and Exiled. I actually liked Exiles more than City of Bones. :D So if you like Cassandra Clare, definitely check out Exiled!
Exiled is a super awesome story about demons, demon hunters, vampires, warlocks, trolls, and more! This is exactly the kind of story I like: magical powers, secret world/society that humans don't know about, corrupt organization, and war! Chase Williams—a demon hunter—is the main character in this story. He's part of an organization called The Circle, the purpose of which is to protect the world from demons. On his fifteenth birthday, he steps up to claim his elemental power, which is passed down through demon hunter bloodlines, but it doesn't come. Since he's now labeled 'powerless,' The Circle decides to exile him and his mother. And awesome, unexpected adventures ensue!
I loved Chase's character because he actually reminded me a lot of myself, and as a girl, I don't usually relate that well to male characters. But I definitely saw a lot of myself in Chase and that was a pleasant surprise for me. He's loyal, determined, a little too stubborn, doesn't like to admit when he's wrong, and often gets a little overpowered by guilt. He's fiercely loyal to his friends so he hates it when his friends are put in danger because of his actions.
Rayna was also a terrific character! She's sexy, badass, super smart, and talented. Rayna is half half-demon and half hunter, and possibly one of a kind. She has so many interesting and unique powers, that even she is still discovering. Plus she has cat eyes — that's awesome.
There was a really interesting almost-romance brewing between Chase and Rayna. They start off kind of hating each other, but soon their jibes start straying away from dislike and towards the kind of playful banter that happens when flirting. Nothing ever officially develops between them, but the tension and chemistry are there, so I really hope this is something we see more of in book 2!
What's great about Exiled is that it's so full of action and there is never a dull moment. Chase is constantly being attacked by demons, striking deals with vampires, or going on some adventure to discover the truth or rescue his friends. There are plenty of battle scenes, some of which are a little gory, but they're all described in wonderful detail and clarity. M.R. Merrick introduces us to a wide variety of characters and creatures, from goblins to trolls to shifters. At one point, Chase acquires an animal companion he names Rai. This is the most awesome bird ever and I totally want one! But she doesn't get introduced until near the end of the story, so I won't reveal too much about her awesomeness. :P
Speaking of the end, it's really quite sad and totally had me tearing up, which was a little embarrassing since I was at an airport. :D But this is definitely an intriguing story that any magic lover or urban fantasy addict will enjoy! There are so many awesome characters, intriguing lore, and new worlds to learn about. Merrick really excelled at creating interesting characters with interesting and unique personalities. Each one had a very distinctive voice and I fell in love with all of them for different reasons.
Exiled is a self published book, but you'd never know it. Many people are turned off by self published books — and I often am too — but I really hope that doesn't dissuade you from picking up Exiled. During my reading, there was never a time where I was thinking, "This is a great story but it could really use some editing." The story flows well, the characters are interesting and develop, and I didn't encounter the spelling/grammatical errors that are often present in self published works. Exiled is a great book and I can't wait to read the second one in the series!
April 3, 2012
Original review at www.gothicangelbookreviews.blogspot.com
EXILED was not what I was expecting. I'm not quite sure exactly what I expected, but I can say that it surpassed my expectations and hopes for how good it would be. It was amazing and has fast become one of my new favourite books by one of my new favourite authors.
For a start, it came from a male POV, how unusual is that in this market?! Well I have only read 2, perhaps 3, so it's unusual for me, at least.
Demon hunter Chase Williams is the son of Riley and Tessa Williams. The family are part of the Circle. Or at least they were. Until now.
(you can find out exactly what the Circle is for yourself)
On Chase's 15th birthday, he stepped up to the altar, ready to invoke his elemental power. Only trouble is, it never came. Riley's dad is a proud man and he has an affinity for fire. So it is a disgrace to him that his son, his flesh and blood has no elemental power. Not only has Chase brought shame on himself, but his dad and the Circle as a whole. Or at least that's what Riley believes.
Chase's mom however, isn't ashamed of her son. She loves him and is proud of him, no matter what.
It's because of this that Chase and his mom are exiled from the Circle. Forever to spend their lives on the outside. Everything they once had, torn from them in an instant.
But that doesn't really bother Chase. Him and his mom have each other and at the end of the day, that is what matters.
Life on the outside of the Circle isn't without it's problems. There's always a demon or two that needs dispatching. Chase is always coming home with cuts and bruises. It's a good thing then that his mom's affinity is for water, a calming, healing element.
It's during an altercation with a demon that Chase meets Rayna and Marcus. Oh boy is that an explosive meeting. Alas, I will not spoil it for you. You need to read it and see for yourself.
Life just isn't the same after meeting them though. Rayna is a chick with attitude. Or should that be a demon with an attitude? Anyway, her bark is almost as bad as her bite. But it has to be said I loved Rayna. She is such a sassy, smart, kickass chick. Demon or no.
At this point, I am loathe to stop talking about the story itself, but I know I must as I fear I will spoil your reading pleasure.
All I can tell you is that this book really is superb. It has demons, vampires, a kick-ass hero and heroine. EXILED truly has it all.
I am one of those people who is on the fence about the vampire genre. There was a time when it was all I read, but then my reading tastes broadened. I know some people will look at a vampire book and think "Oh god no, not another vampire book" and others will think the opposite. Me? I sit on the fence because I know that though some people think that vampires are on their way out, I know that there are still some good books to be had. This is one of those books. It's not just vampires in EXILED, it's true, but the ones that are in it? They are a whole new take on vampires. I won't tell you how, or why. All I can say is, I love Matthew Merrick's take on them. It's refreshing and shakes up what you believe.
I want to share with you one of my Goodreads status updates, I think it pretty much sums up how I feel:
"More than just mere words on a page, Matthew Merrick is an artist of the greatest kind. Every word paints a picture, the beauty of which I cannot describe- you must behold it yourself to believe it. A talented author draws you into the world they create, there is not yet a word invented for the mastery with which this book pulls you in, sucks you under and doesn't release it's grip"
The cast of characters in this story were so much fun. Whether it was Rayna being sassy, Chase complaining, Willy stuttering, I loved it all. Wait til you meet Willy. He's a demon with a stutter and I just adore him. This story would not be the same were it not for the inclusion of the stu-stuttering Willy!
EXILED was fast-paced, action packed and from the get-go I was hooked. I was literally on the edge of my seat, biting my nails, waiting to see what happened next.
I am delighted that Matthew Merrick gave me this book to review. It's safe to say that I will be reading SHIFT (The Protector#2) when I get a chance. I can't wait to find out what happened next.
EXILED was not what I was expecting. I'm not quite sure exactly what I expected, but I can say that it surpassed my expectations and hopes for how good it would be. It was amazing and has fast become one of my new favourite books by one of my new favourite authors.
For a start, it came from a male POV, how unusual is that in this market?! Well I have only read 2, perhaps 3, so it's unusual for me, at least.
Demon hunter Chase Williams is the son of Riley and Tessa Williams. The family are part of the Circle. Or at least they were. Until now.
(you can find out exactly what the Circle is for yourself)
On Chase's 15th birthday, he stepped up to the altar, ready to invoke his elemental power. Only trouble is, it never came. Riley's dad is a proud man and he has an affinity for fire. So it is a disgrace to him that his son, his flesh and blood has no elemental power. Not only has Chase brought shame on himself, but his dad and the Circle as a whole. Or at least that's what Riley believes.
Chase's mom however, isn't ashamed of her son. She loves him and is proud of him, no matter what.
It's because of this that Chase and his mom are exiled from the Circle. Forever to spend their lives on the outside. Everything they once had, torn from them in an instant.
But that doesn't really bother Chase. Him and his mom have each other and at the end of the day, that is what matters.
Life on the outside of the Circle isn't without it's problems. There's always a demon or two that needs dispatching. Chase is always coming home with cuts and bruises. It's a good thing then that his mom's affinity is for water, a calming, healing element.
It's during an altercation with a demon that Chase meets Rayna and Marcus. Oh boy is that an explosive meeting. Alas, I will not spoil it for you. You need to read it and see for yourself.
Life just isn't the same after meeting them though. Rayna is a chick with attitude. Or should that be a demon with an attitude? Anyway, her bark is almost as bad as her bite. But it has to be said I loved Rayna. She is such a sassy, smart, kickass chick. Demon or no.
At this point, I am loathe to stop talking about the story itself, but I know I must as I fear I will spoil your reading pleasure.
All I can tell you is that this book really is superb. It has demons, vampires, a kick-ass hero and heroine. EXILED truly has it all.
I am one of those people who is on the fence about the vampire genre. There was a time when it was all I read, but then my reading tastes broadened. I know some people will look at a vampire book and think "Oh god no, not another vampire book" and others will think the opposite. Me? I sit on the fence because I know that though some people think that vampires are on their way out, I know that there are still some good books to be had. This is one of those books. It's not just vampires in EXILED, it's true, but the ones that are in it? They are a whole new take on vampires. I won't tell you how, or why. All I can say is, I love Matthew Merrick's take on them. It's refreshing and shakes up what you believe.
I want to share with you one of my Goodreads status updates, I think it pretty much sums up how I feel:
"More than just mere words on a page, Matthew Merrick is an artist of the greatest kind. Every word paints a picture, the beauty of which I cannot describe- you must behold it yourself to believe it. A talented author draws you into the world they create, there is not yet a word invented for the mastery with which this book pulls you in, sucks you under and doesn't release it's grip"
The cast of characters in this story were so much fun. Whether it was Rayna being sassy, Chase complaining, Willy stuttering, I loved it all. Wait til you meet Willy. He's a demon with a stutter and I just adore him. This story would not be the same were it not for the inclusion of the stu-stuttering Willy!
EXILED was fast-paced, action packed and from the get-go I was hooked. I was literally on the edge of my seat, biting my nails, waiting to see what happened next.
I am delighted that Matthew Merrick gave me this book to review. It's safe to say that I will be reading SHIFT (The Protector#2) when I get a chance. I can't wait to find out what happened next.
September 9, 2016
Exiled is a series I was very excited to start. And when that happens I try not to put too much on the book, just in case, to not get my hopes up. Now, was Exiled, the first book in the protector series, a book that got my hopes up and wasn’t what I thought it would be? It wasn’t. I really enjoyed Exiled. It was pretty much all the awesome I thought it would be, though, in honesty, I did feel like it could have been a bit more awesome.
Exiled is an action packed, demon slaying, element wielding kind of book. It had a great mixture of so many different supernatural elements thrown in, that it was a book that stands out in a way. It is hard to find a book that stands out, and though Exiled doesn't stand out too much, it is an interesting world to get lost in. I loved all the elements that Merrick wove into his story. And boy, do I wish I picked up this baby sooner!!
“You know, you're like a walking magnet for weird shit, Chase.”
In Exiled, you are in Chase Williams' head, and let me just say, I thoroughly loved reading the book from his cocky, and a bit arrogant, viewpoint. It’s always refreshing to read from a male’s POV, and that is what Chase is, refreshing. As I stated before, he is an interesting, cocking and arrogant character, but that is Chase’s charm. You get to really see and experience his world, his problems and his development through his eyes. And seeing his world was amazing. With all the problems Chase faced in Exiled, I say he is a very strong character and I cannot wait to see where he will go.
Another character that was as kick-ass as Chase would have to be the half demon *drum roll* Rayna! Man, that girl is tough, and I loved every second her and Chase bumped heads! It could get a bit intense! Like Chase, when reading Exiled, you get to see Rayna’s character, and who she is. See the trouble, pain and suffering she has to endure. Now, where Chase is arrogant and sometimes acts before he thinks, Rayna is the opposite. She, in a way, balances him out. And getting to see her grow, too, was pretty darn amazing.
Though, Rayna and Chase are amazing characters, every character in Exiled is unique. Merrick did pretty amazing creating the characters within the circle, outside the circle and in the other dimensions that Chase and Rayna travel to.
“Chase, the first thing you need to know is that you don't know anything.”
With a great round up of characters, you also have a world that is very interesting in Exiled. You have a secret society, built on old traditions. You then have the underworld, with many other dimensions thrown in. Not only that, but you have an array of supernatural creatures and powers to add a bang to the story. And, well, it’s pretty much amazing. With the wielding of elements, going to be honest, got a very Avatar: the Last Airbender (yeah I loved that show, not the movie, the show) feel going on, with the ability the Circle, or the hunters, are able to control. Nothing wrong with that, but even with that feeling, I enjoyed it. Then you have the creatures of Exiled, and boy, they were something else. Very creepy!
Let's not forget the trouble that brews in Exiled. In Chase's world, he thought, in a way, it was all black and white. But then, he is thrown into something he cannot believe. I like that Merrick challenged the main characters view point on demons and the society he is suppose to be helping. It creates a good conflict for Chase to overcome.
The only complaint I have is that at times, I felt the book was too fast paced and was skipping out on details that, as a reader, I would love to have. Not saying the book wasn't great paced, with detail that fully immersed me into that world, it was just at points in the book it felt like there should have been more detail and a slower pacing.
With the trails Chase has to face, to the challenges that are presented to him and Rayna, Exiled was an action filled, and bad ass element wielding book. So, if you enjoy those components, give this one a try. I enjoyed it, and I can’t wait till I get the next book in my hands!
Exiled is an action packed, demon slaying, element wielding kind of book. It had a great mixture of so many different supernatural elements thrown in, that it was a book that stands out in a way. It is hard to find a book that stands out, and though Exiled doesn't stand out too much, it is an interesting world to get lost in. I loved all the elements that Merrick wove into his story. And boy, do I wish I picked up this baby sooner!!
“You know, you're like a walking magnet for weird shit, Chase.”
In Exiled, you are in Chase Williams' head, and let me just say, I thoroughly loved reading the book from his cocky, and a bit arrogant, viewpoint. It’s always refreshing to read from a male’s POV, and that is what Chase is, refreshing. As I stated before, he is an interesting, cocking and arrogant character, but that is Chase’s charm. You get to really see and experience his world, his problems and his development through his eyes. And seeing his world was amazing. With all the problems Chase faced in Exiled, I say he is a very strong character and I cannot wait to see where he will go.
Another character that was as kick-ass as Chase would have to be the half demon *drum roll* Rayna! Man, that girl is tough, and I loved every second her and Chase bumped heads! It could get a bit intense! Like Chase, when reading Exiled, you get to see Rayna’s character, and who she is. See the trouble, pain and suffering she has to endure. Now, where Chase is arrogant and sometimes acts before he thinks, Rayna is the opposite. She, in a way, balances him out. And getting to see her grow, too, was pretty darn amazing.
Though, Rayna and Chase are amazing characters, every character in Exiled is unique. Merrick did pretty amazing creating the characters within the circle, outside the circle and in the other dimensions that Chase and Rayna travel to.
“Chase, the first thing you need to know is that you don't know anything.”
With a great round up of characters, you also have a world that is very interesting in Exiled. You have a secret society, built on old traditions. You then have the underworld, with many other dimensions thrown in. Not only that, but you have an array of supernatural creatures and powers to add a bang to the story. And, well, it’s pretty much amazing. With the wielding of elements, going to be honest, got a very Avatar: the Last Airbender (yeah I loved that show, not the movie, the show) feel going on, with the ability the Circle, or the hunters, are able to control. Nothing wrong with that, but even with that feeling, I enjoyed it. Then you have the creatures of Exiled, and boy, they were something else. Very creepy!
Let's not forget the trouble that brews in Exiled. In Chase's world, he thought, in a way, it was all black and white. But then, he is thrown into something he cannot believe. I like that Merrick challenged the main characters view point on demons and the society he is suppose to be helping. It creates a good conflict for Chase to overcome.
The only complaint I have is that at times, I felt the book was too fast paced and was skipping out on details that, as a reader, I would love to have. Not saying the book wasn't great paced, with detail that fully immersed me into that world, it was just at points in the book it felt like there should have been more detail and a slower pacing.
With the trails Chase has to face, to the challenges that are presented to him and Rayna, Exiled was an action filled, and bad ass element wielding book. So, if you enjoy those components, give this one a try. I enjoyed it, and I can’t wait till I get the next book in my hands!
December 1, 2011
I had heard a lot of chatter about this book on Twitter before I finally broke down and bought it. Everything I heard was good, so I figured it would at least be an entertaining read if nothing else. That my dear readers is an understatement. Merrick starts Exiled off with a bang and things don’t slow down much throughout the rest of the book. Not only that, but it’s a great story with spunky characters that have a wealth of personality and new twists on some old paranormal mythology that fit perfectly in the world that Merrick creates. Have I got you convinced? Well then, allow me to continue….
Chase’s story just about broke my heart. His exile was particularly cruel because of how it was dealt, but I’m not going to spoil anything for you. You need to learn to loath the character in question all on your own and trust me, you will. Because of his exile, Chase had to fend for himself, with the support of his mother. It made it harder for him to trust anyone other than her, but it also made him stronger than he would have been if he would have remained sheltered within the Circle. He wasn’t a perfect hero, but he grew during Exile and became a totally different person by the end, which made it possible for the reader to relate to him even more.
Rayna does have secrets, but not many she is purposely keeping from anyone. Most of her secrets she doesn’t even realize. I’m sure that as the series continues we will find out many more. She is nothing like any other person that Chase has ever met and it’s great watching their friendship and trust grow throughout the book. She could easily be a totally broken character for all she’s been through, but Merrick gives her loyalty and strength to overcome all of it. I think it’s safe to say that Rayna may be one of my favorite YA heroines that I’ve read this year.
Merrick also has quite a group of supporting characters that add a lot to the plot of the story and keep it moving. Of course there is Chase’s mother, Tessa; Marcus, another hunter with a mysterious past; Willie (who is probably one of my favorite characters) a demon who can’t catch a break and Vincent, a vampire who is easy to hate. There also others, but besides the ‘bad guys,’ these are the main characters that the story centers around.
Merrick’s descriptions of the worlds he has created make it easy to vividly picture the character’s surroundings. I’m always amazed when an author describes a setting that is not like anything that you’ve ever seen. You know that it doesn’t exist anywhere but in the author’s imagination, yet, as you’re reading you get totally lost in the description and take for granted that it’s reality for now and you don’t question it. That’s magic and Exiled is full of it.
Exiled starts with a bang and ends with one too. The climax is powerful and I’m warning you now, there will be tears. At least there were for me. It doesn’t exactly end in a cliff hanger, but it is obvious that Chase’s story is far from over. After the Epilogue in Exiled (which evoked more tears by the way) I literally can’t wait until Shift, the next book in this continuing series, is released.
Okay readers, I know I gushed. You also know if you’ve read any of my other reviews that I save the gushing for the books that I really, really like and Exiled is obviously one of them. It’s got a little bit of everything for anyone who enjoys YA books. Hopefully my gushing will entice a few of you to give it a try. I, for one and glad I did and sorry I waited so long to read it.
Chase’s story just about broke my heart. His exile was particularly cruel because of how it was dealt, but I’m not going to spoil anything for you. You need to learn to loath the character in question all on your own and trust me, you will. Because of his exile, Chase had to fend for himself, with the support of his mother. It made it harder for him to trust anyone other than her, but it also made him stronger than he would have been if he would have remained sheltered within the Circle. He wasn’t a perfect hero, but he grew during Exile and became a totally different person by the end, which made it possible for the reader to relate to him even more.
Rayna does have secrets, but not many she is purposely keeping from anyone. Most of her secrets she doesn’t even realize. I’m sure that as the series continues we will find out many more. She is nothing like any other person that Chase has ever met and it’s great watching their friendship and trust grow throughout the book. She could easily be a totally broken character for all she’s been through, but Merrick gives her loyalty and strength to overcome all of it. I think it’s safe to say that Rayna may be one of my favorite YA heroines that I’ve read this year.
Merrick also has quite a group of supporting characters that add a lot to the plot of the story and keep it moving. Of course there is Chase’s mother, Tessa; Marcus, another hunter with a mysterious past; Willie (who is probably one of my favorite characters) a demon who can’t catch a break and Vincent, a vampire who is easy to hate. There also others, but besides the ‘bad guys,’ these are the main characters that the story centers around.
Merrick’s descriptions of the worlds he has created make it easy to vividly picture the character’s surroundings. I’m always amazed when an author describes a setting that is not like anything that you’ve ever seen. You know that it doesn’t exist anywhere but in the author’s imagination, yet, as you’re reading you get totally lost in the description and take for granted that it’s reality for now and you don’t question it. That’s magic and Exiled is full of it.
Exiled starts with a bang and ends with one too. The climax is powerful and I’m warning you now, there will be tears. At least there were for me. It doesn’t exactly end in a cliff hanger, but it is obvious that Chase’s story is far from over. After the Epilogue in Exiled (which evoked more tears by the way) I literally can’t wait until Shift, the next book in this continuing series, is released.
Okay readers, I know I gushed. You also know if you’ve read any of my other reviews that I save the gushing for the books that I really, really like and Exiled is obviously one of them. It’s got a little bit of everything for anyone who enjoys YA books. Hopefully my gushing will entice a few of you to give it a try. I, for one and glad I did and sorry I waited so long to read it.
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