The Spy's Solstice

The Lost Lines #5.5

by Merri Bright

Sometimes stabbing is the only solution.

When apprentice spy Ratter stabs a handsy duke at a royal ball, she knows her crime is unforgivable.

Not the murdering. The getting caught.

Facing exile from the city she loves, she’ll need to make sure a few people are taken care of. That may even include a suspiciously handsome spy from Pict, who apparently holds a grudge.

Sure, she poisoned him, but she was protecting a dangerous secret that could destroy everyone who depends on her.

When the tall, dark, and hot-as-hell spy finds out Ratter’s secrets anyway, she may have to take care of one last loose end.

But can she kill the Alpha who gave her a red-hot first Solstice kiss?

The Spy’s Solstice is a novella in The Lost Lines fantasy Omegaverse series, featuring a 17-year-old Ratter, the orphaned girl who appeared in many of the previous interconnected standalones. This holiday story is low steam, but hints at the multiple love interests an older Ratter will meet in the next full-length book in the series.

Genres: Omegaverse, Magic, Slow Burn

136 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 5, 2024

About the author

Once upon a time, Merri Bright tucked romance novels behind all her textbooks and read love stories instead of the lessons. Now she writes the same kind of books she’s always loved, dreaming up stories about naughty angels, misunderstood demons, sexy shifters, growly Alpha males, and all sorts of dragons.

She drinks cinnamon tea while she writes, and believes in the power of naps, kitten cuddles, and long walks with her dog.
Come watch Merri be socially awkward at Merri’s FB page or Instagram @merribright, or email her at merri@merribright.com.

Reviews

[Alanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love it! I hopped on this book first without reading the other ones in The Lost Lines series. There was nothing that confused me by doing this so feel free to start here!!! I did want to know more though so I need to start at the beginning and immerse myself in this series! I absolutely love it!!!

[Merri Bright]

Thank you so much for reading The Spy’s Solstice. If you’ve been waiting for Ratter’s story, the finale of The Lost Lines series, her full-length book will be out in 2025. I hope this one will tide you over! https://books2read.com/gspy

The Spy’s Solstice features a 17-year-old Ratter, the orphaned girl who wandered onto the page (and stole the show) in many of the previous interconnected standalones. This holiday story is low steam, but hints at the multiple love interests Ratter will meet in The Goddess’ Spy.

For readers new to this series, The Lost Lines is made up of interconnected standalones. That means you do not need to read the other books to enjoy this one, though it might be more fun to start with The Guards’ Haven and meet Ratter at age eleven, along with her crew. The Spy’s Solstice takes place approximately six years after the beginning of Haven’s story, and before The Leviathan's Debt begins.

If you are unfamiliar with Omegaverse books in general, this is a fantasy, why choose, magical spin on ABO. The Alphas and Omegas in my world have distinct biological and sexual traits. Alphas are aggressive, physically larger, and usually male, Betas are average humans, and Omegas are… more or less a mystery, as they were thought extinct for three centuries, since the Omega Plagues.

What we do know is that Omegas have annual fertility cycles and build safe “nests” for this time, often triggered by meeting a compatible Alpha. Alphas have ruts, or periods of heightened sexual need, and without an Omega mate, may eventually go feral. Mature Omegas and Alphas have unique scents.

Content Warning: This low-spice story contains references to attempted sexual assault of a child, on-page violence, profanity, mentions of domestic violence, a smoking hot first kiss scene, and a hint at a future with more than one love interest.

If you enjoyed this holiday novella, please rate, review, recommend, and reach out to let me know. If you need content warnings for any of my books, or just want to say hi, please go to www.merribright.com or email me Merri@MerriBright.com. I’d love to hear from you!


Make Mischief,

Merri

[Jenlovestoread7 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having been a Merri fan for ages, this was actually my first dive into the Lost Lines series and it didn’t disappoint.

While short, Ratter’s story gave you a great sample of what’s to come and I think this might actually be some of Merri’s best writing. The story had the perfect balance of world building, character introduction/development, fantasy and thrills that I’m already desperate for the next instalment! I could easily see this book being made into a series or film.

If you like strong FMC’s, fantasy and a little spice then this is definitely the book for you.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Angela Parker · Rating 4 out of 5]

Here we get Ratters story, she’s always been an interesting character that keeps popping up in other books so it’s good to see her get her own story.
You don’t need to have read the previous “lost” stories but it definitely adds more backstory and gives rage reader a more rounded story.
Ratter is a wildcard, living by her own rules, driving her boss General Vilkurn to distraction. She has such a big heart, helping the omegas escape cruel alphas and keeping them hidden as well as caring for the street children.
I feel sorry for Serak, who’s been sent there on a secret mission, he’s enamoured with Ratter who is equally fascinated by him. They’re star crossed, both having destinies that take them in opposite directions.
Really hope they get to meet again as this ending was bittersweet.
A lovely short story.

[Mindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Merri Bright is one of my favorite authors, so of course, when this book hit my Kindle, I could not wait to dive in.

What a great way to get you excited for Ratters story. As always, I was sucked in from the first page, and I can't wait to read more.

This may be a short book, but don't worry, there is still action, banter, and of course suspense. If you have read Merri Bright's books before, you know you will be laughing out loud, and I have to say I did with one as well. Lol. You know it's good when you're laughing and your husband's looking at you like you're crazy.

[Katelyn D. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve missed Ratter. I’m so happy she’s getting her own story! I’ve loved Ratter since the first time we were introduced to her many books ago. This novella was a wonderful introduction into Ratter’s story, introducing characters who I hope will play more of a significant role when her full novel is released! As much as I love the scenes with past characters, it will be so nice to see Ratter fully branch out on her own. If this novella is any indication, I absolutely cannot wait to read The Goddess’s Spy!

[the_bibliophagist · Rating 4 out of 5]

"You're a contradiction in every possible way. Cruel and kind. Bloodthirsty and gentle. Generous to a fault, and an unrepentant thief. Somber, and filled with mischief." This quote explains Ratter nicely but I say she is just a badass. I've not read the rest of the series but after this book, I definitely will. I'm sure reading the rest of the series might have helped me understand things a little better but I didn't have to. I definitely can't wait for more from Ratter and find out what happens to her, especially with Serak.

[Molly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this peek into Ratter’s storyline and the conclusion to the Lost Lines series. This has been such a fun world that Merri has built and I’m so excited to see what trouble Ratter can get into as she begins her journey!

[Michelle The Outgoing Bookworm · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ratter’s story begins.

I have loved this character since she first appeared in other books.

Her story is going to be epic and can’t to read it.

[Lauren · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful novella! Absolutely packed full with an immersive story and fascinating, well-fleshed out characters. Definitely recommended!

I grew up on a reading diet of every fantasy book I could get my hands on, plus Agatha Christie and Arthur Conan Doyle, rounded out with the few Harlequins I could find. My eclectic tastes were so very satisfied by The Spy’s Solstice! The world building … the intrigue … the relationships… just delightful! I cannot wait to dive deeper into Ratter’s adventures, and to see the further unveiling of the overarching “good vs evil” story.

I’ve read the previous stories set in this world, but it’s been a while! I don’t believe you need to have read the others to get into this one.

If you love the Fantasy genre and have hesitated for any reason about trying this series, definitely jump in here! Some of the seeds for future romance are sown here, but the main focus is really on our strong, fascinating, female protagonist, Ratter. We get to see who she is, where she comes from, and watch her prepare for her important role in the coming Goddess-level showdown.

Like I said - I can’t wait!

[Alice · Rating 4 out of 5]

Romance: 17-year-old Pict spy omega FMC with 18-year-old Pict spy MMC

[Adriana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Its Ratter time!!!

Finally after so many years her story is coming to us by the hand of Merri.
If there is a character of hers that I love immensely other than Feather, its Ratter, we met her in the Kings Omega and since then she stole the heart of many, every single mention of her in all the other books in the series has been one of my favorites and highlighted.

In this Christmas-y novella we get a bit more information about what has happened to Ratter and her crew, how all those little street rats have grown and developed their "handsy" skills. I cannot lie, I was so excited and happy while reading that I was afraid to seem crazy, which I am but people does not need to know ok?

It is a short read BUT it feels better knowing we will have a full length book coming soon. There were so many hints and clues, and although its a stand alone book I would definitely recommend reading the other in the series because as I mentioned before we have so many scenes of Ratter in them, and a lot of them build to her character and to what will be her journey.

I have a lot of theories, and even more questions! Merri for sure knows how to create Mystery, Suspense and Romance.

Both the Main characters in this book are amazing, however they are teenagers so there are no spicy scenes, maybe a bit of steam in one of them, so beware. And soon we will know more about her mates, her future and what will happen to all those that she tried to help? Will we get a cure for the Alphas going feral? What is the true identity of Ratter?

So this book is releasing tomorrow, so go and read it!

[Veronica LaRoche · Rating 4 out of 5]

I couldn’t wait for Ratter’s story, and of course I wasn’t disappointed. This sneak peek has me wanting more. I love the connection between Ratter and Serak. Even though you don’t have to, I definitely will be going back to read the first in the Lost Lines series. Anytime I can get more of these characters, I’ll drop anything. Definitely another amazing read by Merri that I really enjoyed.

[Libby Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am so excited to be sharing my first ARC review! The lovely and kind author of the book @merribright shared a copy with me and I was so touched since I have been a fan of hers for years now.

The Spy’s Solstice by Merri Bright is a continuation of her Lost Lines series, interconnected standalone Romanasty Omegaverse Books where the FMCs end up with more one love interest. This novella can be read as a standalone but we see our main character Ratter in several of the book in the series. (And the rest of the series is so good so why not start at the beginning?)

This Novella follows Ratter, a street rat turned spy, who has been living the good life for the last few years. With loving parents, a crew who would follow her into battle, and admirers that range from peasants to princess. But one rookie mistake while trying to get rid of a creepy duke may change her future forever.

This novella was a short, exciting read with a hint of romance and holiday fun! Our main character Ratter is a dangerous spy with a heart of gold who would do anything for the people she cares about. I can’t wait to see what happens next in Ratter story. The next book will be a full length novel The Goddess’s Spy (out late 2025) that also follows Ratter but we will see more of her journey continuing her education as a spy and romanctic journey.

I would recommend this book for anyone who is a fan of or wants to dip a toe into the omegaverse genre, previous Merri Bright/Lost Lines reader, as well as those who like fantasy books with found families and rag tag groups.

*Content Warning: This low-spice story contains references to attempted sexual assault of a child, on-page violence, profanity, mentions of domestic violence, a smoking hot first kiss scene, and a hint at a future with more than one love interest*

[Tima · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 stars. Ratter, the female lead, is a spy and assassin, as well as adopted princess. She’s been keeping omegas and their children safe in a place where omegas are thought to be extinct. She’s been protecting the royal family. But now she’s in trouble for killing too many diplomats, even if they were attempting to behave inappropriately with children. Apparently there’s more appropriate ways to deal with them.

Serak, the male lead, is a Pict spy sent to ascertain whether Ratter is his God’s betrothed omega. He’s supposed to ignore his own attraction and retrieve her and a special weapon she has possession of. He didn’t expect she would poison him…

Ratter is being sent on a world tour to hone her diplomacy skills but she’s got to tidy up a few things before she departs…

This novella is dual POV, well written and edited, and a sweet, kisses only, omegaverse prequel. The author clearly states that Ratter has been a vital secondary character in numerous stories that I have not read but I found this story fast-paced, funny, and an exciting set up for the main tale, even if I didn’t have a solid grasp on background character relationships. I enjoyed Ratter’s confidence and skills, as well as her compassion and committed protection of those she deemed her charges. I enjoyed Serak’s bemused befuddlement at several events, and his unwilling ongoing attraction to Ratter. I enjoyed their relationship commencement and look forward to seeing the relationship develop through the main story. I enjoyed the element of divine engagement with the world.

I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my voluntary honest review.

[Sinti_13 · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this novella, we follow a delightfully potty-mouthed, murderous spy apprentice named Ratter. Do not let her nickname put you off from reading this! If you don’t already know her, you will understand very quickly in this novella that her nickname is oddly suited to her personality – in a good way.
If you've read any of the other books in The Lost Lines series, then you are very familiar with her but don't worry if you haven't. This novella works as a stand-alone, although I would recommend reading the series. It is another of Merri's wonderful worlds, and experiencing Ratter as a child is just a joy. A murderous joy. In the best way possible.
An additional character in the book describes Ratter perfectly: "You’re a contradiction in every possible way. Cruel and kind. Bloodthirsty and gentle. Generous to a fault, and an unrepentant thief. Somber, and filled with mischief.”
The Great Ratter of Rimholt is tough as nails with a soft heart for others in need, especially abused, vulnerable people and children. She is intelligent, hungry for knowledge, street smart with ingenious systems to communicate with other street kids, and she commands her crew like a general.
In this novella, we receive clues to the mystery of her lineage as well as hints at who she may be and what to expect from her full-length book.
If you enjoy Merri’s writing, you will love Ratter’s novella – especially if you’ve already read about her in The Lost Lines series. This is another must read from Merri, and you will be as excited as I am for Ratter’s full story!

[Amanda Lynch · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a novella set in the world of the Lost Lines series by Merri Bright. The story centers around Ratter who finds herself in a precarious situation and facing exile from the home she loves. Along the way, she discovers someone who may hold secrets about her past and her heart that she doesn’t fully want to understand or undertake.
It’s a heartwarming novella that centers around the solstice celebrations with Ratter and her people. It leaves the door wide open for her story to come full circle and all the twists and turns of her past and her heart to be discovered.
Ratter is very rough around the edges and prickly but truly has a heart of gold. She gives fiercely to those she loves and protects while taking very little for herself. She caught my attention from the very first line of the story: “Sometimes stabbing is the only solution.”
I find that even though this particular story is shorter than a full-length novel, it packs a punch! I found myself laughing, tearing up and breathless in so many parts. One of the biggest lessons this story teaches is that sometimes the thing you fear is the very thing your heart says is the thing you want.
While Ratter appears in other stories of the Lost Lines series, it can be read by itself without reading the others. I, however, will be going back to the series and starting it in the new year to discover more of the other characters in this story.
Tropes:
RH
Hidden Identiy
Magic
Omegaverse
Fantasy
Found family

[Ashley Bartlett · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this story! The Spy's Solstice is an advanced readers copy that I was given to read for an honest review.

Ratter is a standout character—confident, feisty, and fiercely protective of those she cares about. Despite being an orphan and an apprentice, she shows maturity far beyond her years. Watching her grapple with the unfamiliar emotions stirred by a spy she once poisoned to protect a dangerous secret adds a thrilling layer to the story. The tension between Ratter and the spy is palpable; his cocky and brooding demeanor only seems to draw her in more, and it’s fascinating to see how their relationship evolves.

What I loved most about this novella was its exploration of loyalty, love, and the complexity of human relationships, even when secrets are involved. The high stakes, the intricate plotting, and the constant sense of danger kept me on the edge of my seat.

This holiday-themed novella is packed with tension, heart, and enough intrigue to make me want to read the series! While the romance here is low steam, the hints at the love interests Ratter will meet as she grows older promise a series filled with even more twists and turns.

I highly recommend The Spy’s Solstice - I can’t wait to see where Ratter’s journey takes her next!

[Kealy Butler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ratter finally gets her moment in the spotlight in this compelling short story! As a character who has intriguingly appeared throughout the “Lost” series, it’s refreshing to see her take center stage. While you don’t need to have read the previous books to enjoy this one, they do add valuable context and depth to her story.

Ratter is a true wildcard, living life on her own terms and constantly pushing the boundaries of her boss, General Vilkurn’s patience. Beneath her rebellious exterior lies a big heart—her efforts to help omegas escape cruel alphas and care for street children reveal her deep compassion and courage.

The romance between Ratter and Serak is both captivating and heartbreaking. Serak, sent on a secret mission, finds himself drawn to Ratter, while she is equally intrigued by him. Their star-crossed connection adds tension and poignancy, as their destinies seem to pull them in opposite directions.

The ending is bittersweet, leaving hope for their paths to cross again. This is a beautifully crafted, emotionally resonant short story that enriches the “Lost” universe and leaves readers eager for more.

[Jennifer G · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Alpha touched her sister. It's not ideal to kill him on the dance floor of a ball surrounded by his contingent but Ratter is up to the challenge. However, she was told by her mentor, no more killing. And now there are consequences - just not what she was expecting. She's being sent away from the city she loves; the city she protects. Before she goes, she needs to make sure her people are taken care of. She needs to handle a sexy spy she's already poisoned and stabbed. And there is the Solstice to enjoy.

This is a novella celebrating everyone's favorite assassin-in-training. We get a behind-the-scenes glimpse into Ratter's world and see why she inspires love and loyalty among the people. Sassy and fierce, she is full of surprises. She's as bloodthirsty as she is generous. Her protective steak knows no bounds and there is nothing she won't do for those she loves or considers her own. She's not comfortable with her big feelings and hides behind her actions but it's clear the amazing woman she will become. This is a set-up, only the beginning, and it makes me eager for her full story.

[Anshul (stories.buddy) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ratter won my heart even before her story was in the making. She made appearances in different books written by Merri Bright and I instantly knew that I wanted to read her story if Merri decided to right it in future and see what we have now. We have Ratter or say the start of her story which will conclude in the next full-length book but this standalone is very exciting and thrilling.

Nothing with Ratter comes easy or without any mischief. Ratter’s second name is Mischief. This little thief has so much potential and, being a part of why chooses romance, she has several suitors too. Her existence is mind-blowing and I’ll be waiting for the entire story is an understatement. I will definitely be stalking Merri Bright now for the main part.

The book shows so many elements of Ratter’s life that the more I read, the more intrigued I feel by this intelligent creature. The novella sets a perfect stage for the main story, and I have enjoyed every bit of it. I highly recommend reading it. It’s fast-paced and written beautifully.

It’s a 4.5⭐️ for me.

[Ines · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh boy, I already loved this fantasy omegaverse series so much, but when the star of this series is finally getting her own book(s), my love only grows stronger. It’s impossible not to love Ratter, and Serak perfectly explains why in this book when he tells her how she’s “a contradiction in every possible way”.

Even though this is a short story, the choices Serak makes already build him up to become a perfect alpha for Ratter. I’m not sure he’ll be excited to share her in the future, but this is definitely a woman who’s built for the why choose life.

With this story being set around a 17 year old Ratter, we are not diving into a full omegaverse experience with this one. But that is absolutely no reason to skip the story: it holds some wonderful characters, a great storyline and the humor I love so much. It was a great read, making me all the more excited for a story with an adult Ratter!

[Susan Cox · Rating 5 out of 5]

Go team Ratter!!!!

Ratter is my second favorite character that Merri has written about (Feather will always be #1). Ratter is growing up. She is maturing and maybe a highly coveted omega. Serak, a Pict spy was sent to fetch her and her obsidian blade, her back to the his Lord. Ratter will always protect what is her's, all of them. As always Ratter has a million things going on in her mind at one time. By accident she slips up murdering a Lord of something or other that got handsy with her sister. She not really in trouble for killing him, just that she got caught. She has been “banished to travel the world to continue her spy education. Will Serak be able to protect her? Will the Goddess continue watch over her? Ratter’s life is changing so fast it’s hard to keep up with her. I don’t know if I can wait for the next book, but I highly recommend this book. You may want to look for any trigger warnings. Now I’m going back to the beginning of the series and reread all the books.

[Iris Norris · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my very first book in the Lost Lines series, but it most certainly will not be my last. If anything, it made me want to go back and read the entire series. I absolutely loved Ratter, her devotion to her gang, her family, and those that she serves. Oh, and her potential love interest is absolutely perfect for her, even if she doesn't want to admit it yet. I cannot wait for her/their story. Their chemistry is so on point. This story was fabulous, and sucked you in from the very first page. It was so easy to follow along, and to become fully immersed in the story. There was nothing confusing, and you didn't need to read any of the previous books in order to understand, and enjoy this book. So, feel free to start here. But, if you are like me, you are going to want to go back and read the rest. So, grab a copy and let the adventure begin.

[Miranda May · Rating 5 out of 5]

RATTER!!!!! I’m not going to lie, she’s a character that has always stolen the show for me. Not that I didn’t love the other characters in their own story, but it was clear that Ratter was something special. While this is just the start of her story, it’s amazing. She has a big journey ahead of her, that much I can tell. I just can’t wait to see who all ends up a love interest, and how she's going to handle it. As always, Ratter was snarky in all the best ways, and I love that Serak threw her off her game. While this story doesn’t bring the spice, THAT KISS WAS WORTH IT. Honestly, I didn’t even notice the lack of spice because the story kept my attention the entire time, and I just needed to know what comes next.

Guess what? I still need to know what comes next! I can’t wait to read the next part of her story.

[Booksbystarlightandshadows · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great spin off prequel; it gives the broad strokes for the other books in the series (some of which I have read but not all) but not too many spoilers.

Ratter is an intriguing FMC and although this is short novella, I was totally engaged in her journey. I am rooting for her and Serak already and all the scenes with her found family really give you a sense of who this character is. The mythology was also really interesting and I'm keen to see where this picks up after the time jump as I need more!

My interpretation of the star system;
3 stars - I enjoyed it; would read the author again
4 stars - I really liked it; I am invested and definitely want more from this author/series
5 stars - I loved it; I engaged with this book completely until I finished it and it is one I will re-read.

[Darcy’s Good Opinion · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️
Characters: 5/5
Plot: 4.5/5
Spice: 0/5

MF
Omegaverse
Assassin/Spy FMC
Rival Spy MMC
First Crush
Found Family

The Spy’s Solstice is in The Lost Lines series by Merri Bright. The books should be read in order for maximum enjoyment. The characters crossover. This is a sneak peek into Ratter’s life as a 17 year old coming into her own. The spice level is appropriate for her age.

Ratter is one of the most popular characters in The Lost Lines series, and for good reason. She has a fiery, determined, never-say-die attitude. She’s fiercely protective of the children in her care, her friends, and her adopted family.

Ratter finds herself in a completely unexpected and somewhat reluctant position - she is catching feelings for a young man. To make matters worse, he feels the same way. What is an apprentice spy and assassin to do? Clearly, poison.

This book is both heartwarming and hilarious in turns. A superb addition to the series.

[Nicole Lobato · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a part of The Lost Lines Series and is a prequel to Ratter's story. They can be read as standalone and this is my first book that I've read out of this series. After reading this book I want to read them all! This book is low on spice but has an amazing plot and  definitely lots of chemistry between Serak and Ratter to make up for it! I seriously can't wait to read more of Ratter's story in the next book. She's an amazing character that is smart, tough and has a big heart. I love all the books that I've read by this author and pretty much know that a book by her will never disappoint!

[Kasondra Cunningham · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first book in the Lost Lines universe and I really enjoyed and was not confused at all. There was enough backstory given of previous stories that I wasn’t lost but I could see how it could add even more to this one while giving small updates on prior characters and where they are now. There was also enough world building and explanation about the Omega/Alpha bond so it gave me enough background into this omegaverse. I really liked getting to know Ratter and her world, how much she cares for her city and the people she protects. Also, the connection between Ratter and Sarek 😍 can’t wait to see how their story continues and the adventures she’s going to have.

[Charlotte Battersby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ok, this novella made me more excited for Ratter's story than I originally was. The building up during this for her story and her future love interests has made me impatient to see how it plays out! I devoured the story and loved Ratter's personality, she has her own mini network within her city and is absolutely bloodthirsty when it comes to protecting her siblings! I'm looking forward to seeing what happens with Serak next too, absolutely adored their interactions throughout.

You won't regret picking up Ratter's story, it will make you hungry for the next part of her story when it is ready! Kept me gripped all the way through!