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The Merlin Mysteries #1
License to Curse
First day on the job? Missing teens. Dangerous magic. Zero backup.
I’m Rhea Morven, rookie Merlin agent, walking magical anomaly, and proud owner of a cursed bloodline no one trusts.
My first case dumps me in Gallows Gate, a hidden town full of secrets, politics, and creatures that bite. The assignment? Find three missing paranormals before the town tears itself apart. The twist? They’re not just anyone. They’re the children of the ruling council.
Now I’m stuck navigating vampire egos, witch rivalries, and suspicious council members who’d rather see me fail.
Good thing I’ve got a sharp tongue, a dangerous kind of magic, and a very low tolerance for bullsh*t.
Also, there’s a broody shifter with eyes like gold and a tendency to save my life. Not helpful for focus.
They sent me here to fail, but I’m not leaving without a fight.
Love found-family, magical suspense, and snarky witches who bite back? Welcome to The Merlin Mysteries, where a cursed bloodline meets a case from hell.
I’m Rhea Morven, rookie Merlin agent, walking magical anomaly, and proud owner of a cursed bloodline no one trusts.
My first case dumps me in Gallows Gate, a hidden town full of secrets, politics, and creatures that bite. The assignment? Find three missing paranormals before the town tears itself apart. The twist? They’re not just anyone. They’re the children of the ruling council.
Now I’m stuck navigating vampire egos, witch rivalries, and suspicious council members who’d rather see me fail.
Good thing I’ve got a sharp tongue, a dangerous kind of magic, and a very low tolerance for bullsh*t.
Also, there’s a broody shifter with eyes like gold and a tendency to save my life. Not helpful for focus.
They sent me here to fail, but I’m not leaving without a fight.
Love found-family, magical suspense, and snarky witches who bite back? Welcome to The Merlin Mysteries, where a cursed bloodline meets a case from hell.
281 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 22, 2025
970 people are currently reading
223 people want to read
About the author
Kim Richardson
205 books1,266 followersKim Richardson is the award-winning author of the bestselling SOUL GUARDIANS series. She lives in the eastern part of Canada with her husband, two dogs and a very old cat. She is the author of the SOUL GUARDIANS series, the MYSTICS series, and the DIVIDED REALMS series. Kim's books are available in print editions, and translations are available in over 7 languages.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
August 16, 2025
Spoilers
There’s quite a bit of repetition—whether it’s in comments, descriptions, thoughts, or feelings—with some ideas popping up three or four times in just a couple of paragraphs.
The romance was also very sudden and came out of nowhere. At only 30% through, the sidekicks are asking MC what the deal is between her and the stranger because they could feel the "tension and heat" rolling off of one another. For reference, she had only just learned his name and they had only interacted about four times and half of that was him just staring at her. So whatever romance the author was trying to establish isn't effective or captivating for the audience.
At one point she even states
"Because, naturally, my brain picked this moment to play the greatest hits of Eryk’s molten golden eyes looking at me like I wasn’t just a witch on probation in a borrowed bathrobe—but something more. Something dangerous. Desired. A woman worth setting the world on fire for."
Like girl, he's said 50 words to you and gave you a couple half smirks. I don't think we're at "set the world on fire for you" stage in the relationship yet.
Actually all of the relationships aren't well developed. It's an instant friendship, instant backup, instead attraction. It's just so uncreative and lacking depth. Just a few chapters in, these two old broads bust into her house, start giving her details about the crime and info into the investigation. Then flank her into a meeting:
"I adjusted my bag and made for the front door. Marla and Selene flanked me like we were some kind of makeshift strike team. It was… weird. Not bad weird. Just unexpected."
She doesn't question it, doesn't even wonder why they're invested. She keep saying that she wears an armor to protect herself from getting attached but then immediately gets attached to anybody that shows her the slightest bit of kindness. The whole thing is written like it's to help preteens identify feelings with how obvious everything is. It really feels like the author can't trust its audience to infer any details so she just lays everything out for them.
"It hadn’t really hit me before, how trapped he must feel. How suffocating it had to be to exist in the same few rooms for decades—watching people come and go, helping them, losing them. Always the helper. Never the one who got out. “Morty…” I started. He blinked, snapped out of it, and pasted on his usual smirk. “Anyway. That coffee’s not gonna drink itself. And you’ve got a rogue witch to track down. Don’t you, Red?” Just like that, the moment passed. But it stayed with me because for the first time, I realized that Morty’s smarta** attitude wasn’t just personality. It was armor, and he wore it like a second skin."
Like this entire interaction is very obvious that he's wearing his armor like a second skin. It doesn't need to be stated. We didn't need to have the explanation that Morty's smart-a** attitude wasn't just his personality. It's just lazy writing.
And speaking of lazy writing, there were a few other things that bothered me. It was very obvious who the bad guy was, like a slap on the face type of obvious. First time he spoke, the first look he gave, the first thought that MC had just you screamed "I'm the one who took the kids"
Also you're telling me that MC couldn't figure out that a guy named “Eryk Drakmir, who happens to be super strong, super fast, hot to the touch, and ancient, was a dragon? Like, come on now. I'll repeat: Lazy writing.
I really wanted to enjoy this book but there were just so many issues with it that I can't get past. I'll give the second book a go just because I usually give every author I read a second chance but man this book was rough.
There’s quite a bit of repetition—whether it’s in comments, descriptions, thoughts, or feelings—with some ideas popping up three or four times in just a couple of paragraphs.
The romance was also very sudden and came out of nowhere. At only 30% through, the sidekicks are asking MC what the deal is between her and the stranger because they could feel the "tension and heat" rolling off of one another. For reference, she had only just learned his name and they had only interacted about four times and half of that was him just staring at her. So whatever romance the author was trying to establish isn't effective or captivating for the audience.
At one point she even states
"Because, naturally, my brain picked this moment to play the greatest hits of Eryk’s molten golden eyes looking at me like I wasn’t just a witch on probation in a borrowed bathrobe—but something more. Something dangerous. Desired. A woman worth setting the world on fire for."
Like girl, he's said 50 words to you and gave you a couple half smirks. I don't think we're at "set the world on fire for you" stage in the relationship yet.
Actually all of the relationships aren't well developed. It's an instant friendship, instant backup, instead attraction. It's just so uncreative and lacking depth. Just a few chapters in, these two old broads bust into her house, start giving her details about the crime and info into the investigation. Then flank her into a meeting:
"I adjusted my bag and made for the front door. Marla and Selene flanked me like we were some kind of makeshift strike team. It was… weird. Not bad weird. Just unexpected."
She doesn't question it, doesn't even wonder why they're invested. She keep saying that she wears an armor to protect herself from getting attached but then immediately gets attached to anybody that shows her the slightest bit of kindness. The whole thing is written like it's to help preteens identify feelings with how obvious everything is. It really feels like the author can't trust its audience to infer any details so she just lays everything out for them.
"It hadn’t really hit me before, how trapped he must feel. How suffocating it had to be to exist in the same few rooms for decades—watching people come and go, helping them, losing them. Always the helper. Never the one who got out. “Morty…” I started. He blinked, snapped out of it, and pasted on his usual smirk. “Anyway. That coffee’s not gonna drink itself. And you’ve got a rogue witch to track down. Don’t you, Red?” Just like that, the moment passed. But it stayed with me because for the first time, I realized that Morty’s smarta** attitude wasn’t just personality. It was armor, and he wore it like a second skin."
Like this entire interaction is very obvious that he's wearing his armor like a second skin. It doesn't need to be stated. We didn't need to have the explanation that Morty's smart-a** attitude wasn't just his personality. It's just lazy writing.
And speaking of lazy writing, there were a few other things that bothered me. It was very obvious who the bad guy was, like a slap on the face type of obvious. First time he spoke, the first look he gave, the first thought that MC had just you screamed "I'm the one who took the kids"
Also you're telling me that MC couldn't figure out that a guy named “Eryk Drakmir, who happens to be super strong, super fast, hot to the touch, and ancient, was a dragon? Like, come on now. I'll repeat: Lazy writing.
I really wanted to enjoy this book but there were just so many issues with it that I can't get past. I'll give the second book a go just because I usually give every author I read a second chance but man this book was rough.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 11, 2025
fun but issues with plot and characters
Rating: 3⭐️
I have written and rewritten this review several times. And finally decided to try and keep it as concise as possible.
This was a DNF multiple times for me for many reasons but ultimately I finished it and enjoyed it. But I won’t be going further with this series.
Main issues revolve around the characterization and plot issues. Things and elements that repeatedly occur throughout the story or seem to be a part of the main character makeup which makes any credibility of a magical law enforcement officer impossible.
Arcane witch Rhea Morven is a newly credited Merlin. That’s a Magical Enforcement Response League Intelligence Network. Basically they’re the magical law enforcement agents who police the paranormal world. Rhea’s got a sketchy family history and wildcard powers. And she’s a newbie. But still an agent with a badge.
And she’s sent out to an equally sketchy town, Gallows Gate, where a fellow agent disappeared and 3 teenagers have gone missing.
Should be a great mystery and law enforcement storyline.
However, author Kim Richardson gives little insight or foundation into the political structure or powers here. So instead of the Merlin coming into town as a powerful magical force or police officer, there’s nothing to this aspect of the plot.
The agency has given no resources and dumped her. Might as well be a civilian. And she’s whiny. When the Council (and parents) blame her for certain crimes/events that have happened in her absence and without an investigation, she immediately agrees she’s a failure. She’s been there one day.
People refuse to listen or talk to her. Fine. Off she goes. No procedure. What training? Zero credibility as a Merlin for me as a reader.
Rhea’s personality too is lacking. Absolutely gullible as written, especially for a trained agent and magically powerful person. Rhea who listens to the person who’s got “big bad Villain“ stamped on their forehead while suspecting the person who’s saved her repeatedly and reeks of ancient great being. Let’s do that.
While there are some funny moments and engaging characters, like the ghost who’s attached to the dilapidated house that called the local Merlin office/ home, they’re swamped by scenarios and situations that are frankly eye-rolling.
The narrative continues to grow less credible as events unfold that the reader recognizes aren’t well developed mysteries but rather easily explained events. But the author keeps insisting that Morven can’t have the intelligence to guess immediately who and what is going on.
Example: The previous Merlin who was investigating several cases disappeared ten days ago. Now a new body of a man has been discovered. Looks like he’s been there a while. Week, maybe ten days . Oh no! Whoever could it be? Not like there’s a missing person or something. SMH.
Then in the dramatic climax and battle, a character turns into a well used trope. Why not. No foundation laid but ok.
For me this became a kitchen sink paranormal narrative, with little cohesion thrown together with some likable characters but not enough to make me go forward.
Read it if you’re a fan of this author.
Cover design by Kim Richardson
The Merlin Mysteries:
License to Curse #1
Witch on Probation #2 - Oct 31,2025
Magical Misconduct #3 - Nov 30,2025
Rating: 3⭐️
I have written and rewritten this review several times. And finally decided to try and keep it as concise as possible.
This was a DNF multiple times for me for many reasons but ultimately I finished it and enjoyed it. But I won’t be going further with this series.
Main issues revolve around the characterization and plot issues. Things and elements that repeatedly occur throughout the story or seem to be a part of the main character makeup which makes any credibility of a magical law enforcement officer impossible.
Arcane witch Rhea Morven is a newly credited Merlin. That’s a Magical Enforcement Response League Intelligence Network. Basically they’re the magical law enforcement agents who police the paranormal world. Rhea’s got a sketchy family history and wildcard powers. And she’s a newbie. But still an agent with a badge.
And she’s sent out to an equally sketchy town, Gallows Gate, where a fellow agent disappeared and 3 teenagers have gone missing.
Should be a great mystery and law enforcement storyline.
However, author Kim Richardson gives little insight or foundation into the political structure or powers here. So instead of the Merlin coming into town as a powerful magical force or police officer, there’s nothing to this aspect of the plot.
The agency has given no resources and dumped her. Might as well be a civilian. And she’s whiny. When the Council (and parents) blame her for certain crimes/events that have happened in her absence and without an investigation, she immediately agrees she’s a failure. She’s been there one day.
People refuse to listen or talk to her. Fine. Off she goes. No procedure. What training? Zero credibility as a Merlin for me as a reader.
Rhea’s personality too is lacking. Absolutely gullible as written, especially for a trained agent and magically powerful person. Rhea who listens to the person who’s got “big bad Villain“ stamped on their forehead while suspecting the person who’s saved her repeatedly and reeks of ancient great being. Let’s do that.
While there are some funny moments and engaging characters, like the ghost who’s attached to the dilapidated house that called the local Merlin office/ home, they’re swamped by scenarios and situations that are frankly eye-rolling.
The narrative continues to grow less credible as events unfold that the reader recognizes aren’t well developed mysteries but rather easily explained events. But the author keeps insisting that Morven can’t have the intelligence to guess immediately who and what is going on.
Example: The previous Merlin who was investigating several cases disappeared ten days ago. Now a new body of a man has been discovered. Looks like he’s been there a while. Week, maybe ten days . Oh no! Whoever could it be? Not like there’s a missing person or something. SMH.
Then in the dramatic climax and battle, a character turns into a well used trope. Why not. No foundation laid but ok.
For me this became a kitchen sink paranormal narrative, with little cohesion thrown together with some likable characters but not enough to make me go forward.
Read it if you’re a fan of this author.
Cover design by Kim Richardson
The Merlin Mysteries:
License to Curse #1
Witch on Probation #2 - Oct 31,2025
Magical Misconduct #3 - Nov 30,2025
September 26, 2025
Too Many Metaphors
I felt like I was reading a bad Sam Snead mystery. Every single page had at least one metaphor and two similes. The plot was ok but not fleshed lit and the characters were surface level only. Pretty disappointing because it had great potential.
I felt like I was reading a bad Sam Snead mystery. Every single page had at least one metaphor and two similes. The plot was ok but not fleshed lit and the characters were surface level only. Pretty disappointing because it had great potential.
January 21, 2026
I hated it. Rhea got under my skin from the beginning. She was a terrible detective. Incompetent but she strutted around like a bad ass, who doesn't play by the rules. Cue eye roll. Constantly jumping to conclusions about what happened based on no evidence and just her gut instinct. You are a rookie and this is your first case, you have no gut instinct!
The number of similes used in the writing started to drive me insane. "like a problem he couldn't wait to solve with violence" "like a criminal trying to dodge the town mob" "Like a puzzle he didn't like the shape of" "like I'd broken into his house and pissed on the floor" These are just a few I took note of in the beginning, but it didn't stop! It probably wouldn't have bothered me so much but I was already annoyed by our supernatural prodigy detective so this just exacerbated my frustration.
Skip this! Don't read it! Save yourself!
The number of similes used in the writing started to drive me insane. "like a problem he couldn't wait to solve with violence" "like a criminal trying to dodge the town mob" "Like a puzzle he didn't like the shape of" "like I'd broken into his house and pissed on the floor" These are just a few I took note of in the beginning, but it didn't stop! It probably wouldn't have bothered me so much but I was already annoyed by our supernatural prodigy detective so this just exacerbated my frustration.
Skip this! Don't read it! Save yourself!
December 4, 2025
Sadly, it was boring. It didn’t keep me interested and I had to force myself to continue. The mystery was very predictable. Some things were very instant - attraction between the MCs, the friendship between FMC & other side characters, etc. Although I liked Rhea’s friendship with Morty, Marla & Selene, I just kept wondering why is she trusting them so much even though they just met ?
January 7, 2026
An Enjoyable, Easy Read with Room to Grow
Licence to Curse introduces Rhea, an arcane witch newly appointed as the Merlin of a small supernatural town after the unexplained disappearance of her predecessor. Almost immediately, the situation escalates: three teenagers go missing, and the truth behind the former Merlin’s fate is revealed when his murder comes to light.
Rhea is a likeable and capable protagonist who arrives carrying a fair amount of baggage. She’s on probation because her magic is somehow different from other witches’, though exactly how or why isn’t clearly explained at this stage. That lack of clarity may be deliberate setup for later books, but for now it feels a little underdeveloped.
This was my first time reading anything set in Kim Richardson’s world, and while the novel does stand alone in terms of plot, it doesn’t provide much broader context. There’s very little explanation of what Merlin society actually is, how it functions, or how the role fits into the wider magical hierarchy. The town itself exists in an openly paranormal world, complete with a governing council made up of various supernatural factions, but much of that worldbuilding remains fairly light. Given the book’s relatively short length (just under 300 pages), this feels like material being intentionally held back for the series rather than fully explored here.
The supporting cast leans into familiar urban fantasy territory. Rhea quickly forms friendships with Marla, a witch, and Selene, a vampire, and there’s the obligatory mysterious alpha male in Eyrk—the gruff, guarded stranger whose allegiance isn’t immediately clear. Fortunately, he never comes across as cruel or unpleasant, which makes the developing attraction easier to enjoy. Adding some levity is Morty, the ghostly house sidekick that comes with Rhea’s new posting.
Some of the characters do fall into recognisable genre stereotypes, but that’s very much par for the course and didn’t detract from the reading experience. The mystery arc is straightforward and satisfying: secrets are uncovered, the antagonist is revealed, and some of the missing teenagers are saved. By the end, Rhea appears to be settling into the town, finding allies, and beginning to carve out a place for herself.
The book also hints at deeper mysteries surrounding Rhea’s family history, which are only lightly touched on here and clearly intended as hooks for future instalments.
Overall, Licence to Curse is an easy, enjoyable read and a solid introduction to the series. While the worldbuilding around the Merlin role feels thin in this first book, the story, characters, and central mystery were engaging enough that I’m interested in continuing with the next one.
Licence to Curse introduces Rhea, an arcane witch newly appointed as the Merlin of a small supernatural town after the unexplained disappearance of her predecessor. Almost immediately, the situation escalates: three teenagers go missing, and the truth behind the former Merlin’s fate is revealed when his murder comes to light.
Rhea is a likeable and capable protagonist who arrives carrying a fair amount of baggage. She’s on probation because her magic is somehow different from other witches’, though exactly how or why isn’t clearly explained at this stage. That lack of clarity may be deliberate setup for later books, but for now it feels a little underdeveloped.
This was my first time reading anything set in Kim Richardson’s world, and while the novel does stand alone in terms of plot, it doesn’t provide much broader context. There’s very little explanation of what Merlin society actually is, how it functions, or how the role fits into the wider magical hierarchy. The town itself exists in an openly paranormal world, complete with a governing council made up of various supernatural factions, but much of that worldbuilding remains fairly light. Given the book’s relatively short length (just under 300 pages), this feels like material being intentionally held back for the series rather than fully explored here.
The supporting cast leans into familiar urban fantasy territory. Rhea quickly forms friendships with Marla, a witch, and Selene, a vampire, and there’s the obligatory mysterious alpha male in Eyrk—the gruff, guarded stranger whose allegiance isn’t immediately clear. Fortunately, he never comes across as cruel or unpleasant, which makes the developing attraction easier to enjoy. Adding some levity is Morty, the ghostly house sidekick that comes with Rhea’s new posting.
Some of the characters do fall into recognisable genre stereotypes, but that’s very much par for the course and didn’t detract from the reading experience. The mystery arc is straightforward and satisfying: secrets are uncovered, the antagonist is revealed, and some of the missing teenagers are saved. By the end, Rhea appears to be settling into the town, finding allies, and beginning to carve out a place for herself.
The book also hints at deeper mysteries surrounding Rhea’s family history, which are only lightly touched on here and clearly intended as hooks for future instalments.
Overall, Licence to Curse is an easy, enjoyable read and a solid introduction to the series. While the worldbuilding around the Merlin role feels thin in this first book, the story, characters, and central mystery were engaging enough that I’m interested in continuing with the next one.
September 20, 2025
Good
Rhea Morven is a Merlin, a magical law keeper… just. Her first case has sent her to the location of Gallows Gate, and it’s clear from the moment that she arrives, that she has been set up to fail. The previous Merlin disappeared, there are three teenagers missing, and there is something wrong in the woods.
When the first body is discovered, Rhea finds out that she’s on her own, no backup, nothing.
Fortunately, she manages to befriend the local M.E. (another witch), and a vampire, and between them and her rather unusual powers, she’s able to find some answers that head her in the right direction.
Rhea is an unusual witch, with an unfortunate bloodline, the curse of which has taken many of her family members before her, and she is sure that it is also responsible for her misbehaving magic. She doesn’t let it stop her though, and while it may account for her ending up in Gallows Gate, she isn’t going to let it prevent her from saving the teens.
While there were times I definitely shook my head at her, I had to admire her tenacity.
There is definitely a hint of romance in the book, but it’s just a hint, and the story itself is a fast paced suspense type mystery. The flow of the story is a little uneven, but I did enjoy the premise, the characters (although I had to agree that Selene was definitely a bit much, though she does admit it!), and the mysteries in the background. I’m curious to see where it is all leading though.
This is a contemporary fantasy mystery (not quite urban), that those who enjoy modern settings, quirky characters, unusual magic, and mythical creatures with a side of “whodunnit” will enjoy.
Rhea Morven is a Merlin, a magical law keeper… just. Her first case has sent her to the location of Gallows Gate, and it’s clear from the moment that she arrives, that she has been set up to fail. The previous Merlin disappeared, there are three teenagers missing, and there is something wrong in the woods.
When the first body is discovered, Rhea finds out that she’s on her own, no backup, nothing.
Fortunately, she manages to befriend the local M.E. (another witch), and a vampire, and between them and her rather unusual powers, she’s able to find some answers that head her in the right direction.
Rhea is an unusual witch, with an unfortunate bloodline, the curse of which has taken many of her family members before her, and she is sure that it is also responsible for her misbehaving magic. She doesn’t let it stop her though, and while it may account for her ending up in Gallows Gate, she isn’t going to let it prevent her from saving the teens.
While there were times I definitely shook my head at her, I had to admire her tenacity.
There is definitely a hint of romance in the book, but it’s just a hint, and the story itself is a fast paced suspense type mystery. The flow of the story is a little uneven, but I did enjoy the premise, the characters (although I had to agree that Selene was definitely a bit much, though she does admit it!), and the mysteries in the background. I’m curious to see where it is all leading though.
This is a contemporary fantasy mystery (not quite urban), that those who enjoy modern settings, quirky characters, unusual magic, and mythical creatures with a side of “whodunnit” will enjoy.
December 28, 2025
Very interesting characters and world, but writing is clumsy and forced at times
I really like the characters. They are different, distinct, and hold this otherwise cliche urban fantasy book together. The world-building is strong, also, but sparse in places. That is understandable: it is a first-person POV and first book in series. I am looking forward to seeing the world developed.
My biggest issue is the forced writing in places. It is so ham-fisted it knocks you out of the story.
Look, I get the tropes of most urban fantasy: snarky female supernatural protagonist, love interest that is difficult and mysterious, a supporting familiar/friend group to act as source of knowledge/exposition.
The author forces these relationships so clumsily that I was constantly rolling my eyes. The “familiar” trope is a ghost that came pre-installed in her home/office and cannot leave. The “friend group” literally barged into her home as strangers and then were just ‘there as needed’ for the story. And the “love interest”? The often written, “I don’t have time for a relationship,” “Why am I behaving like a teenage girl?” “I don’t know if I want to kiss him or kill him,” gets tiresome quickly.
For example, the one character that literally was described and written as a conceited, smarmy Dark magic user bad guy was, in fact, the bad guy. Kind of took the “who” out of “whodunnit.”
The character descriptions and personalities are amazing; how the author portrays their interactions was where I was disappointed. But it is a very entertaining book and I will continue reading. Hopefully, the writing improves.
I really like the characters. They are different, distinct, and hold this otherwise cliche urban fantasy book together. The world-building is strong, also, but sparse in places. That is understandable: it is a first-person POV and first book in series. I am looking forward to seeing the world developed.
My biggest issue is the forced writing in places. It is so ham-fisted it knocks you out of the story.
Look, I get the tropes of most urban fantasy: snarky female supernatural protagonist, love interest that is difficult and mysterious, a supporting familiar/friend group to act as source of knowledge/exposition.
The author forces these relationships so clumsily that I was constantly rolling my eyes. The “familiar” trope is a ghost that came pre-installed in her home/office and cannot leave. The “friend group” literally barged into her home as strangers and then were just ‘there as needed’ for the story. And the “love interest”? The often written, “I don’t have time for a relationship,” “Why am I behaving like a teenage girl?” “I don’t know if I want to kiss him or kill him,” gets tiresome quickly.
For example, the one character that literally was described and written as a conceited, smarmy Dark magic user bad guy was, in fact, the bad guy. Kind of took the “who” out of “whodunnit.”
The character descriptions and personalities are amazing; how the author portrays their interactions was where I was disappointed. But it is a very entertaining book and I will continue reading. Hopefully, the writing improves.
October 11, 2025
Ok, it wasn't awful, but nothing about it really drew me in. The dialogue between a few of the characters was ok. Especially the witch and vampire that show up from the start to help out - for really no reason. But the fmc was constantly down on herself and not all that bright when it came to the investigation. It was also a bit tiresome to have her do the "oh, they will see just how wonderful I am" and then she crumps it pretty quickly and is laying there expecting to die any second. The writing left a bit to be desired. There was an almost constant description about the sound her boots were making - creaking on the floor, crunching on the gravel, crunching through leaves - and more. As for the romance - well, the lusting started on page 20 and pretty much hit every single page right to the end. To say it took away from the rest of the story line would not be a stretch. I quit counting the number of times she had to pull her mind away from how wonderful he looks and focus on the horde of demons coming toward her, etc. I'm not going to mention in detail how totally demeaning the entire start of the story was. Ridiculously so. Moving into the house with mold and broken windows? I was quite shocked the water worked. Eh - I think I can pass on this one.
October 14, 2025
A romantasy paranormal urban police book. It is also craptastic.
The MC, Rhea, is a whiney do-nothing who somehow is a Merlin, a magic cop. Her blood or magic or whatever is regarded as cursed or whatever, so the agency sends her straight from training to this little magic/magical creature town to be the station officer, and there have been some disappearances. Except her immediate predecessor disappeared without a trace and without any investigation at all.
She wanders the town doing nothing except seeing the hot mystery guy who is hot, and mystery, and then goes to a town meeting where she accepts all blame for nothing being done before being assigned there, makes no efforts at all, gathers no real info, goes and takes a leisurely bath and flirts with the hot station ghost, and sleeps.
The first child is found dead and instead of, you know, investigating she takes blame for that as well. Rinse and repeat. At no time is it believable the MC had any training, and instead of her ancestry or blood being cursed, rather it is her total lack of any effort at all times that is the real issue.
I see the author has 200 some odd books. Maybe she just wasn't feeling it. This is just a poorly plotted book.
The MC, Rhea, is a whiney do-nothing who somehow is a Merlin, a magic cop. Her blood or magic or whatever is regarded as cursed or whatever, so the agency sends her straight from training to this little magic/magical creature town to be the station officer, and there have been some disappearances. Except her immediate predecessor disappeared without a trace and without any investigation at all.
She wanders the town doing nothing except seeing the hot mystery guy who is hot, and mystery, and then goes to a town meeting where she accepts all blame for nothing being done before being assigned there, makes no efforts at all, gathers no real info, goes and takes a leisurely bath and flirts with the hot station ghost, and sleeps.
The first child is found dead and instead of, you know, investigating she takes blame for that as well. Rinse and repeat. At no time is it believable the MC had any training, and instead of her ancestry or blood being cursed, rather it is her total lack of any effort at all times that is the real issue.
I see the author has 200 some odd books. Maybe she just wasn't feeling it. This is just a poorly plotted book.
December 17, 2025
This is the first book in a series about a witch that may be more than she appears to be. She's given a place to work and she's part of the Merlin group, the Magical Enforcement Response League Intelligence Network.
She's not the most popular person in that group, though, and ends up assigned to a kind of beat up place with a magical typewriter that prints out orders and messages from the League. Rhea has a feeling that the group actually wants her to fail.
There's some missing kids. a vampire, a male that's actually dragon, a kind of beaten-up pickup truck she can use and a lot of people that don't like her.
There's also some demons, an explosion, some kind of family curse, finding out what happened to her predecessor there and, if that wasn't enough, there's some odd happening with her magic. It seems to be somehow evolving.
The characters are all really interesting. The situation that she's put into is somewhat funny. The group she's working for don't seem to have her best interests in heart, to put it mildly. It all jells together quite well and I'm looking forward to further books in the series.
She's not the most popular person in that group, though, and ends up assigned to a kind of beat up place with a magical typewriter that prints out orders and messages from the League. Rhea has a feeling that the group actually wants her to fail.
There's some missing kids. a vampire, a male that's actually dragon, a kind of beaten-up pickup truck she can use and a lot of people that don't like her.
There's also some demons, an explosion, some kind of family curse, finding out what happened to her predecessor there and, if that wasn't enough, there's some odd happening with her magic. It seems to be somehow evolving.
The characters are all really interesting. The situation that she's put into is somewhat funny. The group she's working for don't seem to have her best interests in heart, to put it mildly. It all jells together quite well and I'm looking forward to further books in the series.
December 29, 2025
Rhea is a Merlin agent (think of supernatural FBI), whose Arcane magic is attached to a curse that’s hit her whole family. It scares people away.
For her first assignment, Rhea is sent to Gallows Gate, a supernatural town, that has 3 missing teenagers. All of the teens are children of the town council. The previous Merlin agent is also missing.
No one in power thinks she will solve the mystery, but she is determined to do well.
Aided by the witch coroner, Marla, a fashion plate vampire, Seline, the household ghost Morty and possibly by the mysterious bar owner Eryk – who know what he’s hiding.
This book has an interesting mystery, magic, demons, some humour, a possible romance.
But there were a few problems for me – Rhea has this strange power but there is not really an explanation of why it’s such a problem.
Marla and Selene basically become her best friends after a couple of meetings.
I enjoyed this but I’m not going onto the next book right away, it just didn’t completely enthrall me today. I will go back to it and at that time will probably read everything in this series.
For her first assignment, Rhea is sent to Gallows Gate, a supernatural town, that has 3 missing teenagers. All of the teens are children of the town council. The previous Merlin agent is also missing.
No one in power thinks she will solve the mystery, but she is determined to do well.
Aided by the witch coroner, Marla, a fashion plate vampire, Seline, the household ghost Morty and possibly by the mysterious bar owner Eryk – who know what he’s hiding.
This book has an interesting mystery, magic, demons, some humour, a possible romance.
But there were a few problems for me – Rhea has this strange power but there is not really an explanation of why it’s such a problem.
Marla and Selene basically become her best friends after a couple of meetings.
I enjoyed this but I’m not going onto the next book right away, it just didn’t completely enthrall me today. I will go back to it and at that time will probably read everything in this series.
September 8, 2025
pretty good
I liked this book but I didn’t love it. The FMC is your far too common angsty, damaged, unique woman who’s obviously always going to save the day.
There’s a cast of quirky supporting characters as expected and a super hot potential love interest.
Unfortunately, I picked up the two big reveals within the first couple chapters, it wasn’t exactly rocket science figuring out the bad guy and what Eryk was. The plot was fairly simplistic but the curse background is a different spin. However, if the curse traveled genetically through Rhea’s family, why did it take out both parents? Only one would’ve been genetically a Morven. Plus, why did she assume her “half aunt” was her mothers sister and not her fathers? Wouldn’t her mother have been a Morven by marriage not by birth? And why is the half aunt so old when Rhea is only in her 30s? Not too happy with these relatively huge inconsistencies.
There were a few minor editing errors, missing words etc. but nothing huge.
I liked this book but I didn’t love it. The FMC is your far too common angsty, damaged, unique woman who’s obviously always going to save the day.
There’s a cast of quirky supporting characters as expected and a super hot potential love interest.
Unfortunately, I picked up the two big reveals within the first couple chapters, it wasn’t exactly rocket science figuring out the bad guy and what Eryk was. The plot was fairly simplistic but the curse background is a different spin. However, if the curse traveled genetically through Rhea’s family, why did it take out both parents? Only one would’ve been genetically a Morven. Plus, why did she assume her “half aunt” was her mothers sister and not her fathers? Wouldn’t her mother have been a Morven by marriage not by birth? And why is the half aunt so old when Rhea is only in her 30s? Not too happy with these relatively huge inconsistencies.
There were a few minor editing errors, missing words etc. but nothing huge.
November 28, 2025
Oh Dragon
I have read a few series from this Author, being I read a lot it's hard to find books that are completely different that's original. This author is very good with complete new worlds and original storylines, I think this one might be slightly linked to another I sure I have read about Merlin witches before in another series of this authors but different storyline, angle and characters.
This one has a interesting mystery to the main lead she is unsure of all that she is and we take the journey with her while she figures it out oh and a old curse on her blood line don t help (I'm hoping she is Dragon but the curse stopped that side of family blood,witch mother side) we also got a fun team (Scooby gang) plus a love interest (maybe mate, will it break the curse) so far so burn romance nothing yet but a stare. (No push and pull please)
Leaves you with a few questions but the good kind. A great start to a new series.
I have read a few series from this Author, being I read a lot it's hard to find books that are completely different that's original. This author is very good with complete new worlds and original storylines, I think this one might be slightly linked to another I sure I have read about Merlin witches before in another series of this authors but different storyline, angle and characters.
This one has a interesting mystery to the main lead she is unsure of all that she is and we take the journey with her while she figures it out oh and a old curse on her blood line don t help (I'm hoping she is Dragon but the curse stopped that side of family blood,witch mother side) we also got a fun team (Scooby gang) plus a love interest (maybe mate, will it break the curse) so far so burn romance nothing yet but a stare. (No push and pull please)
Leaves you with a few questions but the good kind. A great start to a new series.
November 4, 2025
Rhea is an Arcane witch thrown into her first magical job without a clue how her powers work and no one to train her. The magical Council expects her to fail.
Rhea is thrown into a frantic frenzy trying to solve the murder of a missing magical teen and prevent the murders of two others while searching for them. The magical council that sent her there seems very unconcerned for her well being and makes it clear she is on her own, so survival is up to her. Astonishingly, Rhea accidentally manages to make unexpected allies and creates support.
The ragtag team Rhea eventually cobbles together has a chance at surviving the evil magic that is coming for them all, and the villain that is revealed at the end is a shocker - they managed to take the villain down, making this an absolutely worthwhile read
Rhea is thrown into a frantic frenzy trying to solve the murder of a missing magical teen and prevent the murders of two others while searching for them. The magical council that sent her there seems very unconcerned for her well being and makes it clear she is on her own, so survival is up to her. Astonishingly, Rhea accidentally manages to make unexpected allies and creates support.
The ragtag team Rhea eventually cobbles together has a chance at surviving the evil magic that is coming for them all, and the villain that is revealed at the end is a shocker - they managed to take the villain down, making this an absolutely worthwhile read
December 22, 2025
I wanted to love it
I only read 67% before I had to DNF. The overall story has potential - the plot, setting, and characters could be outstanding, but it needs an intense edit.
There are so many little issues that add up to an irritating read. For example, the main character "pulls out in a spray of gravel," but she's not racing to an emergency, nor angry, just driving to the next point of her investigation. Another time the author has one character say, "It's more dangerous than you think." Only for the other to reply sarcastically, "You think?" I hate being so critical of an author, but this book wasn't ready to publish, and her editor and/or beta readers did her no favours if they suggested it was.
I only read 67% before I had to DNF. The overall story has potential - the plot, setting, and characters could be outstanding, but it needs an intense edit.
There are so many little issues that add up to an irritating read. For example, the main character "pulls out in a spray of gravel," but she's not racing to an emergency, nor angry, just driving to the next point of her investigation. Another time the author has one character say, "It's more dangerous than you think." Only for the other to reply sarcastically, "You think?" I hate being so critical of an author, but this book wasn't ready to publish, and her editor and/or beta readers did her no favours if they suggested it was.
September 25, 2025
Packed full of action and some great characters!
Thoroughly enjoyed this start to the series. The downtrodden but gutsy lead character is very likeable. I enjoyed meeting the townspeople, particularly Selene and Marla, who I reckon are based on Christine Baranski and Julie Walter’s characters in Mamma Mia.
This was fast paced, with enough character building to want to know them better and hope they don’t get written out as the fights get more dangerous. I’d like a bit more of Eryk, but who wouldn’t! He sounds yum. Looking forward to the next one. Thank you for an entertaining and very enjoyable few hours Kim!
Thoroughly enjoyed this start to the series. The downtrodden but gutsy lead character is very likeable. I enjoyed meeting the townspeople, particularly Selene and Marla, who I reckon are based on Christine Baranski and Julie Walter’s characters in Mamma Mia.
This was fast paced, with enough character building to want to know them better and hope they don’t get written out as the fights get more dangerous. I’d like a bit more of Eryk, but who wouldn’t! He sounds yum. Looking forward to the next one. Thank you for an entertaining and very enjoyable few hours Kim!
October 17, 2025
Such a delightful read!
The story was excellent, along with the characters and world-building. But what I loved best was the delightful language of the story. Jackets weren’t just leather, they were “dark leather steeped in sin and secrets.” Everything is written so colorfully, and with a dark sense of humor (warning: if you’re squeamish, you might want to skip over the whole dead body burrito part).
It’s like a cross between a classic film noir and a modern Charlie’s Angels movie. But minus Charlie, and with witches, vampires, and shifters. And demons. Lots and lots of demons.
The story was excellent, along with the characters and world-building. But what I loved best was the delightful language of the story. Jackets weren’t just leather, they were “dark leather steeped in sin and secrets.” Everything is written so colorfully, and with a dark sense of humor (warning: if you’re squeamish, you might want to skip over the whole dead body burrito part).
It’s like a cross between a classic film noir and a modern Charlie’s Angels movie. But minus Charlie, and with witches, vampires, and shifters. And demons. Lots and lots of demons.
August 25, 2025
Okay, I was hooked
The opening lines were attractive to me on a dark and stormy night. I find escape from my PTSD triggered by lightning, reading about, and immersing myself in worlds away from battle. I like witches, vampires, ghosts, talking animals, and a good mystery to solve. I will readily admit that I guessed the reveal way before the end of the book. It seems that my reading of urban fiction focuses on a hierarchy. My past military service sees the snark, smirk, beauracratic mess that can be fuel for personal growth. The system works.
The opening lines were attractive to me on a dark and stormy night. I find escape from my PTSD triggered by lightning, reading about, and immersing myself in worlds away from battle. I like witches, vampires, ghosts, talking animals, and a good mystery to solve. I will readily admit that I guessed the reveal way before the end of the book. It seems that my reading of urban fiction focuses on a hierarchy. My past military service sees the snark, smirk, beauracratic mess that can be fuel for personal growth. The system works.
October 5, 2025
Could have been good. Had the potential to be good, just fell a bit short.
No real depth of characters, poorly planned and unfinished plot lines.
Lacking in plausibility ( counsel members, whose children are missing) don't look for them, try to discredit the only person trying to help look for them, yet! They are devastated by the disappearance.
Two sidekicks appear out of nowhere and without explanation. Who are these women and why are they suddenly part of team MC? Poor world building, ok no world building. Too much to continue. I did finish the story but it was hard going.
No real depth of characters, poorly planned and unfinished plot lines.
Lacking in plausibility ( counsel members, whose children are missing) don't look for them, try to discredit the only person trying to help look for them, yet! They are devastated by the disappearance.
Two sidekicks appear out of nowhere and without explanation. Who are these women and why are they suddenly part of team MC? Poor world building, ok no world building. Too much to continue. I did finish the story but it was hard going.
October 6, 2025
3 star as of 6 Oct 2025 on first reading.
Story: Decent idea though lacks some depth
Characters: FMC is interesting, but the others lack depth and feel like enjoyable props
Relationships: Can see the beginnings of them forming
Pacing: Lots of action back to back
Spice: Flirting
Audience: Magic, Dresden file lovers
Top Complaint: Would have liked a bit more depth from the sidekicks
Warning, I'm a huge re-reader of books thus my feelings on them can change over time. Any future re-read opinions will be captured below.
Story: Decent idea though lacks some depth
Characters: FMC is interesting, but the others lack depth and feel like enjoyable props
Relationships: Can see the beginnings of them forming
Pacing: Lots of action back to back
Spice: Flirting
Audience: Magic, Dresden file lovers
Top Complaint: Would have liked a bit more depth from the sidekicks
Warning, I'm a huge re-reader of books thus my feelings on them can change over time. Any future re-read opinions will be captured below.
December 1, 2025
Witty, sharp, and well paced.
So much better than the standard supernatural romance or “hack-and-slash” flotsam that seems to be so prevalent within the genre. Kim Richardson has crafted an entire world that doesn’t bog down with unnecessary world building or a myriad of genre tropes. The story is laid out with the assumption that the reader can follow this new realm without a paint by numbers guide. This refreshing take allows for more developed characters and a sharp, engaging story. Kudos!
So much better than the standard supernatural romance or “hack-and-slash” flotsam that seems to be so prevalent within the genre. Kim Richardson has crafted an entire world that doesn’t bog down with unnecessary world building or a myriad of genre tropes. The story is laid out with the assumption that the reader can follow this new realm without a paint by numbers guide. This refreshing take allows for more developed characters and a sharp, engaging story. Kudos!
January 9, 2026
Corny and a bit ridiculous
No gradual development of the story (just jumps into it with no build up) or the main character (she states all her thoughts and emotions rather than the author revealing her past and motives over time). All the characters are caricatures - extreme personalities with no depth or subtlety, stereotypes carried well beyond credulity. And the writing is just cliché and corny. I read a ton of PNR and UF, so I’ve made it through some pretty mediocre writing, but I had to DNF this one a third of the way in.
No gradual development of the story (just jumps into it with no build up) or the main character (she states all her thoughts and emotions rather than the author revealing her past and motives over time). All the characters are caricatures - extreme personalities with no depth or subtlety, stereotypes carried well beyond credulity. And the writing is just cliché and corny. I read a ton of PNR and UF, so I’ve made it through some pretty mediocre writing, but I had to DNF this one a third of the way in.
October 1, 2025
fun and exciting
Really enjoyed this book and it’s characters! The characters made me laugh and added an extra layer to the storyline. They are fun and funny. Loved their interactions and personalities that jumped right out of the book. The storyline was full of questions and intrigue. A ticking clock to find the missing and solve the case. Lots of new magic. Great mix and well developed together.
Really enjoyed this book and it’s characters! The characters made me laugh and added an extra layer to the storyline. They are fun and funny. Loved their interactions and personalities that jumped right out of the book. The storyline was full of questions and intrigue. A ticking clock to find the missing and solve the case. Lots of new magic. Great mix and well developed together.
January 11, 2026
An absolutely fun ride of a book
Judgmental small town….check
Hot mysterious guy … check
Dangerous job….check
Snark….double check
The new Merlin, our main character Rhea, in town walked into a bad situation and hit the ground well maybe not running but more doggedly persisting.
A ghost assistant, missing kids, missing predecessor and few clues start her time in her new job as magical sheriff.
She learns a lot and maybe commits some crimes.
A fun ride and a fast read
Judgmental small town….check
Hot mysterious guy … check
Dangerous job….check
Snark….double check
The new Merlin, our main character Rhea, in town walked into a bad situation and hit the ground well maybe not running but more doggedly persisting.
A ghost assistant, missing kids, missing predecessor and few clues start her time in her new job as magical sheriff.
She learns a lot and maybe commits some crimes.
A fun ride and a fast read
August 8, 2025
never fails
Kim Richardson never fails in getting me into her books hook, line and sinker. Didn’t want to put this down. Main character learning her new magic amazing. The part when they picked up the dead body and squelches and goop happened, thought it was so hilarious and so eeewwwwww at the same time. Good read. Can’t wait for the next Merlin book out.
Kim Richardson never fails in getting me into her books hook, line and sinker. Didn’t want to put this down. Main character learning her new magic amazing. The part when they picked up the dead body and squelches and goop happened, thought it was so hilarious and so eeewwwwww at the same time. Good read. Can’t wait for the next Merlin book out.
August 21, 2025
Attention Grabbing From the Start!
This book had it all! Character building a heroine that wouldn’t give up crazy events that she had to figure out so a good mystery!! Loved the other characters and learning about their stories as well! So much fun to read can’t wait for the next one!
This book had it all! Character building a heroine that wouldn’t give up crazy events that she had to figure out so a good mystery!! Loved the other characters and learning about their stories as well! So much fun to read can’t wait for the next one!
September 9, 2025
Funny
I love the sarcasm, metaphors the invoke the intended imageries. So funny.
Some parts were too much but then it relaxes.
The language use makes it easy to imagine and get attached to whichever character calls to you.
Selene's character was perfectly provoking. I both loved and hated her comments.
I love the sarcasm, metaphors the invoke the intended imageries. So funny.
Some parts were too much but then it relaxes.
The language use makes it easy to imagine and get attached to whichever character calls to you.
Selene's character was perfectly provoking. I both loved and hated her comments.
September 29, 2025
More than meets the eye
A Morven no one knows what that name means more than she does. Unnatural magic, unstable and it has brought her to the Gallows on a case due to missing people. She knows she’s on probationary basis but she doesn’t care she has a badge and she is going to make sure she solves the case and proves everyone wrong,
A Morven no one knows what that name means more than she does. Unnatural magic, unstable and it has brought her to the Gallows on a case due to missing people. She knows she’s on probationary basis but she doesn’t care she has a badge and she is going to make sure she solves the case and proves everyone wrong,
January 23, 2026
It was a fun, light read. I enjoyed the characters and plot but overall felt like it was poorly executed. Repetitive, lots of unnecessary inner monologue, and spots that were too drawn out. I found myself skimming a lot of the second half of the book and don’t think I’ll pick up the second in the series.
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