Edge of Mercy

Sugar & Vice #3

by Allie Therin

In this fight, feelings are the most dangerous weapon of all.

In the gripping conclusion to Allie Therin’s slow burn urban fantasy MM romance series, an empath and an empath hunter face off as the fate of an alternate-universe Seattle—and their own future—hang in the balance. 

Caught in the crosshairs of a deadly conspiracy, empath Reece Davies was forced to embrace his darker nature to protect the enemy he’d fallen for. Now, joining forces with others like him, drawn to chaos and vengeance by the corruption in his veins, Reece is being hunted…by the very man he saved. 

Evan Grayson, a notorious empath hunter known as the Dead Man, was engineered to never falter from his mission—until he met Reece. Even corruption can’t cool their desire for each other, but with Reece’s dark side in control and all of Seattle at stake, Grayson must stop him, no matter the personal cost.

As the battle between the two enemies heats up, so does their forbidden attraction. But the danger is growing and closing in on them from all sides. Because Grayson isn’t the only one hunting the empaths—and they both may have finally met their match…

Sugar & Vice Book 1: Liar City Book 2: Twisted Shadows Book 3: Edge of Mercy

Genres: Fantasy, Romance, M M Romance, Urban Fantasy, Slow Burn, Paranormal, Audiobook

Kindle Edition

Expected publication June 23, 2026

About the author

Allie Therin is a bicultural author of award-winning romance and urban fantasy. She also is, or has been, a bookseller, an attorney, a Parks & Rec assistant, a boom operator, and a barista for one (embarrassing) day.

A longtime fan of romance, mystery and speculative fiction, she now strives to bring that same delight to her readers. Allie grew up in a tiny Pacific Northwest town with more bears than people, although the bears sadly would not practice Spanish with her.

Reviews

[Evie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bless these two dumbos but it is SO HARD to take them remotely seriously as enemies because they literally NEVER stop being SUPER HORNY for each other at all fucking times.

I have only recently binged this series in preparation for the release of the third instalment and it has quickly become a favourite. The tension between Reece Davies and Evan Grayson across all three books has been some of the most entertaining, delicious and intoxicating tension I have encountered for a long time. I was really impressed with how much Therins skill in writing romantic and intimate connections has progressed.

Rest assured I wont say anything to spoilery about the plot. I think that Therin did a great job bringing together the story lines she lay down in the first two books, although she clearly has more to say about this world and these characters, which if you have read her Spellbound series won’t come as a surprise (and I wouldn’t be at all shocked to hear news of more books being released in this world). With that being said, people who have been waiting to pick up the series until the third book has been released will be satisfied with the reading experience if they jump in now.

Given the current geopolitical landscape, I enjoyed how Therin wove in themes of government corruption and the influence of lobbyists as well as the role of denial and moral culpability in the process of sanctioning and committing some real atrocious actions.

I am not sure if I am 1000% sold on some parts of the ending; it kind of came together a little TOO easily, but at the end of the day it didn’t stop me from having a great time and needing to thousand-yard-stare at the wall after reading how hot some of the scenes were 🥵. This book is probably a 4.5 stars realistically speaking, but I am rounding it up for the series as a whole and just being an addictive and engaging read.

As always, I was very appreciative to have Teru to hand hold me during ARC reads that make me need to yell at someone a little bit. After the collective neurosis we experienced waiting for these ARCs to drop I am so glad they ended up living up to expectations.

Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Romance for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.

✨ Planned release 23 June 2026 ✨





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[Revy]

THERE'S GONNA BE A THIRD ONE FUCK YES FUCK YES FUCK YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS

[Kassu · Rating 5 out of 5]

5-⭐

Feelings when starting the book:
I am scared & horny, and also annoyed that I need to work for a living.

Review:
Liar City grabbed me and flushed my brain down the toilet. I've seen other people complain about plot and whatever (who even cares when it's Care Bear and not-really-Dead Man?) and honestly felt like I didn't even notice anything weird, I am the Blind Man.

Now, I am explaining all this because I feel like I have to justify that little minus up there after the five. Because, while I loved this book to bits, this time I was left with a couple of teeny tiny niggling feelings. It's much like Captive Prince part 3, which is great, and I love the whole trilogy, but there was two pretty stupid things in there. And I don't think things here were stupid, but as we've sort of followed the whole trilogy hoping and believing that all that talk about irreversible is bullshit, some of the resolutions in the end felt just a bit too simple.

Now that I let that out, I can focus on loving this book. Danger Bear and Thirsty Man completely suck at being enemies, which was really fun to read. And this trilogy brings me everything I want from a romance. Slow burn, mutual pining, banter, sort-of-enemies-to-sort-of-friends-to-sort-of-lovers-to-sort-of-enemies... I can't explain the dynamic neatly, but it is delicious. And actually I need to get back to slow burn, because this sort of isn't, though? It is, because the relationship doesn't start in the whole first book, but then again that book happens in a span of two days. Really this is a whirlwind romance, where both parties are totally consumed by thoughts about the other after knowing each other for two days!

There are horrible, greedy politicians benefiting from villainising the empaths and it's heartbreaking, and unfortunately not far-fetched at all. All three books are page-turners, I even love the fricking car chases. The first book is a great mystery but the sequels deliver good suspense stories. But the main feature is still the two leads and their epic relationship.

I really wish we would get more of Alex. Is there more books coming set in this universe? Is there, please? The corrupted empaths in general are interesting, as they obviously were not quite as b&w sadistic evils as initially portrayed. (Just like pretty much everything was either mis- or disinformation from the actual villains.)

This trilogy is among my favourites and up for reread in the future again. I have never been as excited to get an ARC, and I'm so relieved this third book lived up to my expectations. My thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley.

[viktoria]

Words cannot express how badly I want this book.

[Lily S (Cover Lover) · Rating 5 out of 5]

5++++++ Stars!!!!

I loved this so much! I’m sad it’s over. This series really surprised me. The first book lost me a bit and was good but I was waiting for more to happen. The second book pulled me in and kept me in the story and I became enamored with it. This book cemented this as my favorite read so far this year. It will be hard to top.

I didn’t know if we would get a resolution before the end. I was sort of hoping we wouldn’t and that maybe Allie Therin decided to write one more book for Reece & Evan and their siblings and friends. But it ended and it was everything!

I really had a hard time putting this down. There are multiple POV’s in this series and they work so well. I love these characters and I became invested in them. Because of this writing style the story moves quickly and keeps you in suspense and on the edge with anticipation.

Reece and Evan were so fun! Their interactions, starting with texts then phone calls, FaceTime and eventually face to face, were filled with their sarcastic humor. I liked Reece being corrupted because it showed a side to him that was less careful and so he pushed the limit with everything. Him still caring about his loved ones showed that the corrupted empaths aren’t as horrible as they are perceived to be.

I do feel like this isn’t the end to this story. It could be wishful thinking but there is so much I want to know! What happens to the corrupted empaths at Orion? Where are Alex and Gretel? What can Reece and Evan discover together to help turn the thinking about empaths around? Plus I just want more!

Thank you to NetGalley, Harlequin Romance & Carina Adores for this arc
All thoughts and opinions are my own

[Jane (whatjanereads) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the PERFECT ending for this series!!!
I seriously couldn’t have imagined a better plot or solution.
Allie Therin is putting crack in her books, this had me gasping, giggling and kicking my feet.

Reece and Evan as enemies? Those two were flirting so hard and nonstop thinking about humping each other! I just love their banter so damn much.
The evil empaths who just protect all their loved ones and other sweet empaths? I loved it.
Everyone at Stone solutions? Please jump off your multiple million dollar building.
Jamie? You’re the only one in this book with more than one braincell, I love you.
Gretel and Alex? I ship them so hard!!! Please, I need a shortstory!

I flew through this once again and almost cried when I had to put it down to go to bed.
Reece and Evan forever. 🥹

[Annabella · Rating 5 out of 5]

Literally amazing. I read this this non stop all day. The banter, the flirt- threatening, the steamy scenes, all of it was the best thing ever. Such a good conclusion to the story and I’m so sad it’s over now! I will definitely be re reading this. 10/10
*I received an advanced reader copy from NetGalley

[akira · Rating 4 out of 5]

edge of mercy was my most anticipated read since i finished book 2 (twisted shadows) last year. i'm probably not the most objective here, but this is going to be my honest feeling on this book, the series, and these characters.

after reece becomes fully corrupted to save evan's life, he and evan find themselves on opposite sides. reece is dangerous; to himself and others. and evan made him a promise - to keep reece from hurting anyone - that he intends to keep.

if this was meant to be the 'enemies' part of their love story, then it genuinely did not work. they had more palpable tension in book 1 than here. speaking of book 1, having recently reread liar city, there's a very distinct tonal shift from book 1 (where things feel more dire and serious, it reads like a genuine murder mystery) to here (despite the circumstances, it reads a lot more lighthearted?).

some of that is probably deliberate. neither reece nor evan are the same people they were in book 1, recee especially with the whole corruption thing. I can't say I quite like the change, it leads to some very awkward characterization. reece, who I generally saw as a very decisive character, waffles a lot, this way or that, here. evan, who was the character that knew everything before we even knew it was relevant, who took a bullet for an emapth he knew was walking a dangerous line, is so set in what he believes he thinks is the truth - that there's no coming back for reece.

there's also this scenario that pops up where both of them will think 'i really shouldn't do that thing' and then proceed to do that thing. for example:

'I really shouldn't open his message.' *opens the message*
'I really shouldn't reply to the dead man.' *replies to the dead man*
'there's no way I'm accepting his call.' *accepts call*
'it's stupid to invite reece to meet me.' *meets reece*

part of this is them genuinely being unable to let go of each other, which i understand and appreciate. but after the fifth 'my fingers moved before I could even think' it gets repetitive rather than descriptive.

the last 70 pages is the best part of the book in my opinion. it has everything I could have wanted from the end of this trilogy; reece being pushed to the edge of his corruption, evan wanting him and siding with him regardless, evan confronting his lack of emotions. that said, the way reece's corruption arc was wrapped up feels like a cop-out. I get it, it would probably be debilaiting for an empath with a conscience to remember everything he did when corrupted. but one of my favourite bits of book 1 was the existentialism of being an empath. I've said it before, and I'll say it again, but this world has my favourite depiction of Empathy as an ability (or in this case; a state of being). I wish that that Empathy without a conscience was explored more, the way what empathy means for an Empath was explored in the first book.

there are a lot of other things I could nitpick about (only because I loved the first two books so much), but none of them really took away my from enjoyment of this story. sure, everything is a bit too neatly wrapped up in the end, but I was just genuinely happy to see them happy and together and in-love. it eclipses everything else :)

Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins Publishers for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Cadiva · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jeeeeeeeze what a way to end this amazing series!

Honestly, I had absolutely no clue where Allie was going to take this story, or how she could possibly find a conclusion which would leave everyone happy.

The tension just kept ramping up over and over as all things seemed to be indicating no way out for Reece and his corrupted empath friends Alex and Cora.

For Evan, the Dead Man, it seems his path is now an irreconcilable collision with the man who has stolen his attention - as he no longer has any feelings - and who he once swore he would protect from anything.

But Reece is corrupted now, he's joined forces against those who seek to control the empaths, and do much, much worse, as we discovered in book two.

So how can Evan not bring him in? The odds are stacked against him, evidence is piling up that Reece has been involved in multiple incidents, including murder, and things are looking bleak.

Fortunately, Reece's big sister Jamey won't ever give up on her brother, she's using every bit of her detective brain to show Evan that things are not as they seem, and it's this parallel plotline - with insights into the villains' plans - that keeps the reader on the edge as the story continues to grow.

No spoilers here, but I will just say that the multiple POVs once again is an intriguing narrative choice, I just wish they were more clearly delineated because sometimes the jump is a jaring one and it takes a minute or two to work out whose head we're in away from the main ones of Reece and Evan.

Not to say I don't enjoy it, I do love getting the villain monologuing their way to doom as it were, I just wish there'd be a more clear textual divide in the formatting.

As with the first two books, the UST between Reece and Evan is off the charts, even more so here where they're apart for at least half of the book, resorting to snarky texts and ever more flirty interactions as the actions of the opposition force them unknowingly closer together.

The twists and turns are magnificent, you never know what's going to happen next, but Allie keeps a tight control of the storyline, so things don't ever become a deus ex machina, instead it seems that the incredible can only be the ultimate outcome.

Everything about this book worked for me, apart from the fact it ended! I want so much more in this universe that Allie has created. I want to see Reece and Evan after the major threat to their lives has been removed.

I want to see what Alex and Cora will do, I want to know what happens to the empaths in the future, I just need more of this alternative Seattle.

Loved, loved, loved!

Not once has Allie Therin let me down. She's a mastercraftswoman when it comes to urban fantasy and world building, providing enough to give a flavour of our real world to anchor the setting, but providing all the needed differences to bring the sense of danger and strangeness.

I've loved every single thing she's written and I cannot see that ever changing.

ARC kindly received from the author/publishers Harlequin via NetGalley, I am voluntarily leaving a review

[Eden · Rating 3 out of 5]

**ARC received from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.**

I liked the first book of this series, was obsessed with the second book, and was so excited for this third and final book. Romance arc wise, I am very satisfied. Reece and Evan had the ultimate slow burn with some pretty big obstacles and I really like how these were resolved. The loyalty and protectiveness they have for each other is so strong and shines through. They also extend that to other people, Reece to his close circle and Evan to empaths. Great characters with some cool supporting characters as well, Reece’s sister Jamey especially. There was also a nice wrap up of the overall villain arc with companies and people out to make money on or against empaths. The series really dived into the idea that people aren’t necessarily all good or bad. They can have moments where they help and protect people, they can have moments where they use people, and they can have moments where they use people to protect others. You can grow from your past and you don’t have to be defined by it. My main reason for not giving this a solid 4 stars is that I felt like there were new elements to empathy powers that were revealed towards the end of the book that were not explored or explained and it made the series feel unfinished. The only thing I could think of is if Allie Therin is hoping to do another trilogy following different characters that explores these new ideas. If she does, I’m all for it and it would make me love this book even more. If she doesn’t, I am admittedly disappointed in not getting to explore these new potential perspectives of empathy and what empaths can really do.

For more specific and bigger spoiler thoughts: I also was a little off put that Reece can’t remember anything that happened while he was corrupted. I get the logic that maintaining that knowledge would just corrupt him all over again, but that feels like too black and white an explanation of good vs bad almost and that feels like it undoes the point of the messaging of the books, saying that people are more complex than that. Again, if we have another trilogy or at least another book that then explores this further (maybe he slowly gains back the memories but learns better control of the corruption?), I’ll be less upset by that choice. Additionally regarding the world building around empaths powers and corruption vs pacifist, I get that the leading force behind understanding empaths was the military and they were trying to find new weapons, but why was there nothing that taught empaths how to control their powers? That would be something I would love to dive deeper into and explore.

[Teru · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perfection. No notes. And I usually do take notes while reading, but I was literally unable to take my eyeballs off. Allie Therin, what are you doing to me?!

As this is the third book in this trilogy, I won’t go into the plot for obvious reasons. But the theory everyone has been going off in the story is that corrupted empaths turn to sadists, permanently. The world, including the empath hunter Evan Grayson, believes that. Maybe it’s time this belief is challenged - and time to look into who actually profits most from it.

God this series is the definition of compulsively readable - fast-paced, heart-pounding, exciting. I would say it’s one big cat and mouse game, but make it more like several jungle cats playing a deadly hide and seek and chase.

Now that’s out of the way...OH MY GOD THIS SERIES!!! I swear to god it’s been driving some pretty inhuman noises out of me since book one and I’m happy to report, Edge of Mercy was no different. Biting into my hand while screeching, foaming at the mouth over Reece and Evan, kicking my feet and generally making me look like a caffeine-pumped chinchilla on crack 🐹

The size difference! “Sugar” by Evan! 😳 Angry flirting! THE FRISKING AGAINST THE WALL scene!! 🔥 One sleeping bag!!!
...sorry I flat-lined for a second here. Let me just wipe that droll off and continue, much obliged...
did I mention the freaking size difference??? 😳😳

I think I found my new favorite relationship dynamic - enemies to oh-god-he’s-still-cute/hot-can’t-resist-must-touch to even more of enemies to... now that would be telling! Go read it if you want in on all that fun, babes 🤭
(Also, the author definitely upped her smut game because jfc that was delicious 🥵)

My absolute favorite MM urban fantasy series, hands down. It’s objectively not flawless or perfect, but the minor plot holes for plot convenience were clocked and promptly discarded, together with some too-easy resolutions. These books turned my brain off in the best way possible and I LOVED every second of it. The story, the world, all the characters!

The book ended on a satisfying note for Reece and Evan, but the stage is still set for more. And as this world is absolutely fantastic and feels like a vault full of unexplored ideas and plotlines, I’m keeping my fingers crossed for Therin to keep coming back to it!

Biggest thank you to Harlequin-Romance and Netgalley for allowing me access to this e-arc, you made my entire month with it! Expected publication date is June 23, 2026.

And thank you to Evie for braving the wait with me because I would’ve probably lost my mind without someone to commiserate about it ❤️

[Dísir · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love this urban fantasy that Allie Therin has created: a parallel universe where empaths are deemed both a danger and a solace for a society that can’t really decide whether they are heroes or villains. But in the ‘Sugar & Vice’ series, they are increasingly seen as threats that should be managed, blamed and possibly neutralised when the murders pile up. That narrative keeps gaining traction when experiments gone wrong have made empaths the guilty party, and best exemplified in the dynamic between the emotionless empath-hunter Evan Grayson and the impulsive, emotionally-laden empath Reece Davies.

As the third book in the series, ‘Edge of Mercy’ isn’t a standalone, even for those who have read the first 2 books might find themselves scrambling to keep up. It’s a direct continuation of the cat-and-mouse chase that has already been set up from the last book, and definitely not a gentle glide into the sequel as it plunges you into (what can be) empath-management, the politics surrounding it, as well as the opposing sides that Evan and Reece have found themselves on. But it’s gratifying to see that they still watch out for each other without admitting it and how their decisions reflect the conflict they wrestle with each time this happens.

There’s a lot going on, though, maybe too much at times. If the multiple POVs offer more outsider perspectives, they also detract from the main pairing and their actions, resulting in a lack of Grayson/Reece together moments. Grayson/Reece’s connection for much of the first half is limited to reluctant and snarky texts and they do spend quite a bit of time apart in this until at least the halfway point and beyond. It takes quite a bit to get them physically together and even then, their weird mix of trust, suspicion and unwavering devotion leads to a somewhat convenient climax with an ending that still leaves a few questions unanswered.

Even so, Therin’s plot is complex and thoughtful, and both her writing/characterisation sharply nuanced. It makes me wonder if she is going to delve a little deeper into this world though, if only to get the loose ends tied up.


*ARC by the publisher via Edelweiss

[KtMos · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story that began in Liar City and Twisted Shadows is so very close to my heart. 🥰 Liar City was a breakneck thriller with a hint of underlying romance. Twisted Shadows was an adorably thrilling romance with a tragic, yet fitting ending. And I have spent over a year wondering what an Edge of Mercy would bring for Reece and Evan (my sweet babies). To my immense satisfaction, I got an ARC. 🥳🥳🥳

So here’s the scoop:
Twisted Shadows ends with Reece corrupted and Evan feeling confused and hopeless. As a reader, it ripped out my heart, no matter how inevitable it seemed. As I feared, Edge of Mercy begins on a just as heart-wrenching note. Though I enjoyed the new pairings (Reece with Alex and Cora, Evan with Jamey), I felt that too much time was spent with Evan and Reece apart. Also, it was hard to watch Reece being mean to Evan. Evan may say he doesn’t have feelings, but we all know that’s a crock of shit. He was hurting over his Care Bear’s ruthless words. 😩 I’m not saying I would change this. It’s probably necessary, but prepare yourself for the pain.

One of the things that makes Therin a fabulous writer is her ability to make you genuinely care about her secondary and even tertiary characters. That being said, Edge of Mercy jumped rapidly between characters and storylines I just wasn’t as interested in. It was literary whiplash 😵‍💫 With such a huge cast of characters and a complicated storyline—Stone, AMI, Gretel, Aisha and Diesel (criminally underused in this one), Jamey, Nichols, Marist, Alex and Cora— we only made it back to Reece and Evan sporadically. I wanted to be with them SO much more, and even more than that, I wanted them to be together. This doesn’t happen until 2/3 of the way into the book— but after that, it’s gold.

Their chemistry, their banter, their obvious FEELINGS for each other. 😍 From Port Angeles to the end, they were very nearly everything I needed! Sweet and protective and sexy and oh-so-IN-LOVE! God! They are adorable.

Then we drew close to the end— and it came a bit too easily. Without spoiling a thing, I’ll say that both their transformations took about one sentence. Then, it was pretty much over, and I was left with SO many questions and concerns! I thought this was supposed to be the last book! Will it be like Magic in Manhattan and continue in a second trilogy with different leads? How will Alex find his way back? How will the new empaths fair? Will Diesel and Aisha find empaths of their own, or are they destined for each other? Reece and Evan certainly found some closure, but what about everyone else?!?

Regardless of these questions, I know this: I will auto buy ANYTHING Allie Therin puts out. She is an amazing writer with a knack for capturing my heart, over and over again.

[Kristel (hungryandhappy) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have so much to say and absolutely no way to convey everything with simple words. How can I translate the fury, the pain, the love, the humour without telling everything? Every single word on page is important, essential, builds the base of everything that has happened and that is going to happen. This last book starts right after the ending of its predecessor. You have no breathing space, you are launched right into the action, your brain at full capacity, trying to capture every nuance because one can't miss the subtle ways Allie Therin tells you everything you need to know, and even if it's not said clear on page, you know, because you know these characters, you scream at them when they're been fools, when they make questionable decisions, and the make many, and you see how even the most miniscule change can alter the outcome.
I know these characters, I love these characters, I'm along the ride. I adore Reece and how prickly he can be, how he can't help himself in certain situations, how he flirts when he tells himself he's not doing that. I love Evan and how much he actually feels without really being able to feel, like emotions are so many his unemotional self just can't fight them anymore. I love them together, the banter, the way they're magnets for the other when they were sorts of allies and now that they're enemies.
Did I like the ending? I did! Am I happy about the ending? I'm not but only because I need at least 5 more chapters of them going on road trips and fighting about traffic regulations and being so turned on the truck will serve its new apparent purpose of being their love hut for emergency situations.
But I'm happy I got to see this slownurn flourish, the feelings growing; I was so lucky to get to witness this story and now I say goodbye (until I reread the whole thing in audio as soon as it's released!).

[Tenny · Rating 5 out of 5]

Do you know those books which live in your head rent-free? Yeah, this is one of them. I am spinning these characters in my head so much.

We left the second book on quite a cliffhanger and boyyy, does the third book deliver in resolution. Evan Grayson is on a mission to catch Reece, who fell into corruption. But even despite the fact they now should be on the opposite sides, they can't help but text, communicate and snark at each other with lot of sexual tension.
The romance is absolutely 5*. I loved every scene these two were in, you could taste the tension. And some of the tropes which appeared... just *chef's kiss*. This romance is really very well crafted and I love the dynamic Evan and Reece have. And their flirting regarding traffic safety. (but also the angsty bits, where both realize just how much the other does care)

The wordbuilding is bit less exciting but nontheless important for some revelations later. I will admit I was bit "yeah okay okay, evil scientist scienting, gimme more Reece and Evan!". But the lore is important for overall story.

I am giving 5* because I absolutely enjoyed the ride and really loved the romance... BUT! There are some misgivings I do have - while romance stuff is absolutely resolved, some of the other (lore) stuff seems bit... open-ended. When I finished the book, I was wondering if author planned to add more in the series, bcs some of the questions still felt unanswered. So I guess the final rating depends on "Will we get more of this universe"? Not neccesarily with Evan and Reece, as much as I love them, but I think the book is really begging for continuation.
Spoilers: Especially the ending of Alex and Gretel felt very open-ended and I would enjoy a book with them.

But you should definitely read this whole trilogy because its magnificent.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

*4.5 stars*

This is the third book in a slowburn romance/SF thriller trilogy that absolutely does have to be read in order, and book 2 ended with a twist that seemed to make it impossible for the romance to ever work...

So it was *intensely* satisfying to watch it play out, especially because even when pitted against each other as official feuding enemies, Reece and Evan are still 100% helpless for each other. One of my favorite lines (with the context that Reece has a paranormal ability to sense lies when spoken by anyone, including himself):
"Well, Evan, you *are* my obsession," Reece said, infusing it with years of practiced sarcasm. "Practically my every thought is about you."
As the words left his tongue, he had to bite back a swear. They hadn't been a lie.
Their game of cat-and-mouse is so compelling that I found myself getting frustrated with all the scenes from other characters' PoVs and occasionally skim-reading those in my rush to get back to the main pair, but I loved how beautifully Therin orchestrated the final showdown for all the characters and brought the full story to just a perfect conclusion - and ohhhh was the final culmination of that slow-burn romance satisfying.

There were so many lines I highlighted for re-reading, but they would be far too spoilerific to share! So I'll just say: if you've read the first two books, you HAVE to read this one for an incredible final payoff. And this was a really fun trilogy!

[lindsey · Rating 4 out of 5]

*4.25 stars!!

thank you to Harlequin Romance for the e-arc on netgalley! all thoughts and opinions are my own.

this was such a great conclusion to a super fun series and i'm so glad that i decided to read it! since this is the third book, we're in a place where reece and grayson have reached an ultimate divide. similar to the previous books in this series, we experience the longing and obsession between these two characters and it's done in a nice slow burn that made me actually feel feral. whether it be through their own wandering thoughts, texting, phone calls, or eventually in person, this romance is defined by a constant yearning. especially when it's been built over 3 books, this final book was pretty satisfying where the romance is concerned. and that one scene in the truck had me doing laps in my room...allie therin your MIND.

in terms of the actual urban fantasy plot, i was maybe expecting it to be a bit more dramatic? it just felt like everything was building to this big reveal, specifically regarding the extent of reece and grayson's abilities. i had so many theories in my mind as to how these things would be resolved and although it was still something that made sense, i thought it would have been more nuanced or complicated. there was still lots of intrigue and reveals along the way that made it hard to put the book down.

overall, i really had such a FUN time with this finale! i loved this series for the urban fantasy landscape, investigative mysteries, and a romance that really snuck its way into my heart. when it finally came to an end i just wanted even more from the world of empaths and i'm definitely going to miss my favourite sarcastic care bear and dead man duo!

[liv · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love everything queer and Sugar & Vice had all the best things, paranormal romance, action, a gripping slow burn and amazing characters that you can't help but love. The Edge of Mercy was the cherry on top of this spectacular trilogy.

Allie Therin couldn't have given Evan and Reece, and us readers, a better ending after so much sweet slow burn. Just like with the first two books, I devoured the third. Her writing continues to be captivating as she presents to us complex issues mixed with fun sass and passion from all the characters; her character development and her worldbuilding are equally incredible.

The only reason I'm giving this a 4⭐ even though I loved it so much is precisely because I loved it so much and her world building was amazing. I was intrigued with everything until the very last moment of conclusion and because of that I feel like there are still answers we didn't get. Evan and Reece did get their very much deserved happy ending and even with some things left up in the air I'm totally fine with that but maybe one single book isn't enough to tie all the ends and close all the door the author opened after introducing the new possibilities.

Putting that small detail aside, I loved, loved it. I'm so happy I got to meet Evan and Reece again after a year and read the whole book in one sitting and I can say it was totally worth the wait.

Thank you to NetGalley and Carina Adores for  sending this ARC in exchange for an honest review

[Devoted❤️Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

The squeals I made when I saw the Edge of Mercy on my ereader. But then, the dilemma, do I savor or devour it?

NGL, I was low-key terrified to begin this as I knew my precious Care Bear and his sexy cowboy agent were in for a world of UST with some definite hurt, while hoping for a metric ton of comfort.

“Gone was the perfectly groomed and photo-ready Dead Man. In his place was something much more raw: Evan the Unedited Hot Mess.
And Reece couldn’t tear his eyes away.”

The questions keeping me up at night since Twisted Shadows: How are Reece and Evan ever going to overcome the seemingly insurmountable obstacles they face? How can these two who are 1000% meant to be going to find a way to be together without the world trying to keep them apart?

All I’ll say is devour, choose devour. Allie Therin with her brilliant writing, her craft for weaving a masterful, immersive story, will take you on an unforgettable experience full of hope, heat, and heart that will have you alternating between holding your breath, rubbing your chest, and falling even more in love with this fantastic, beautiful duo who will never leave your soul.

My wish after finishing this dazzling conclusion is for another trip into the lives of Evan, Reece, and Jamey as I’m not ready to say goodbye. I want more of this extraordinary Seattle AU, and obviously even more Reece and Evan. I will never get enough of these two and so will make this spellbinding trilogy a staple of my annual rereads.

[Lia · Rating 5 out of 5]

MM
Multiple POV
Magic realism
Political intrigue
Soft for him
Forbidden romance
They can't touch
Slow burn
Banter
Nicknames

Rating: 5/5 - I loved this book and I think I will reread it
🌶️: 1/5 - there were a couple explicit intimate scenes

TLDR: It's OK. You don't have to fear. It's a good ending.

I was so worried about this book because of the cliffhanger of book 2. Everything that happened with Reese made me super worried that this was not going to be satisfying and I'm here to tell you that it is. It's so good. It maintains the same tension and political intrigue of the first two books. And it pulls at the heartstrings even more. It's very good and I'm very happy. I will absolutely reread the whole series. It's definitely an intricate story with lots of details that I needed my memory jogged for. And the author did do a great job of the little "Hey, you might have forgotten so here you go" things. It didn't feel too long or repetitive. Just a wonderful ending to a very good series.

Ultimately, I'd recommend this book to anyone. I honestly think that this book is highly palatable. Anyone who likes political intrigue I think will enjoy this book. Unless they really can't jive with magic realism.

Thank you to the author, Harlequin, and Netgalley for the advanced review copy of this book. My opinions are my own.

[Ines · Rating 5 out of 5]

FIVE GLORIOUS STARS 🤩

The slow burn in the Sugar & Vice series is almost painfully restrained at times, but that restraint is exactly what makes the emotional payoff in its last installment, Edge of Mercy, feel so rewarding. Framed as a character-driven speculative romantic fantasy with a slow-burn M/M romance at its core, the story leans fully into emotional intimacy over external spectacle. Every interaction carries a quiet undercurrent of longing and vulnerability, and the narrative takes its time letting intimacy unfold naturally instead of forcing it. I loved that patience so much.

What truly stayed with me is the empath premise. It’s such a strong concept, but more importantly, it’s used in a way that deepens the emotional texture of the entire novel. Feelings become impossible to fully hide, closeness becomes charged with meaning, and even small moments between Reece and Grayson end up carrying so much weight. There’s a constant, simmering sexual tension between them, shaped entirely by restraint and emotional vulnerability.

There’s also a real tenderness at the heart of this story that made me deeply attached to the characters very quickly. Even during quieter moments, I felt completely invested in their emotional journey and in the atmosphere of the world around them. The blend of yearning, softness, and intimate emotional stakes worked beautifully for me.

Thank you, Allie Therin, for Reece and Grayson.

[Alyssa Reads and Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Edge of Mercy is a fantastic conclusion to the Sugar and Vice series. Allie Therin helps her characters overcome seemingly insurmountable odds, as well as solve a long running mystery in a plot filled with wonderful twists and turns.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This book picks up immediately after the huge cliffhanger at the end of Twisted Shadows. This series must be read in order, both for the mystery and suspense related to corrupted empaths in an alternate universe Seattle, and for the wonderful slow burn romance between empath Reece Davies and Evan Grayson, aka the Dead Man, who can’t even touch each other.

It’s no secret that I adore these characters and their slowest slow burn romance. In fact, early in this installment, Reece and Evan’s romance takes a back seat to figuring out the overarching mystery. The trick is that Therin manages to make both the mystery and the romance equally satisfying for the characters and the reader. Sure, there are some loose ends, but that just makes me hope that it’s not the last we’ve seen of these amazing characters.

I love Edge of Mercy, and this entire series. If you are a fan of a slow burn, opposites attract queer romance with a dose of mystery and alternate reality thrown in, Allie Therin’s entire Sugar and Vice series is a must read.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[lindsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

thank you netgalley for the arc!

i requested this... a while ago? then forgot i had requested it. but when i got approved i downloaded it right away and here we are five days later.

i really like allie therin's work, and this series is incredible. had me stressed down to the wire but it all came together in the end! i think there is more work to be done in this world if she feels like it, and i really hope she does.

it occasionally occurred to me that i should be annoyed by how it kept getting explained who people were the first time we met them in this book, but also i couldn't remember who they were so that was probably a good call. and it wasn't all at once so it wasn't too annoying.

i loved seeing all the complicated pieces come together, from reece and evan's relationship to the whole mess at stone solutions and everything in between. i cared about so much of what was happening, and i didn't feel like anything was overshadowed or got too much attention. masterful! a great book! an excellent series! weird fucking magic (?) that was super cool to think about! what's not to love?

anyways read this series, you will like it (or else).

thanks again to netgalley for the arc, and of course this is my honest review!

[T Darcy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I think the first two books in this series worked because, even when they weren't on the same side - or even working together, Reece and Grayson were together on page. Their flirtation carried the series, and the character shifts in this book resulted in less flirtation, and therefore a less engaging story. The second half of this book was stronger than the first half, with the two grudgingly reunited and fiercely protective of one another. The series plots were tied up and a satisfying HEA earned, so ultimately it was worth the read.

Worked well:
- The reveal of Grayson's history and how his story was concluded.
- Jamey's fierce loyalty to her brother.
- Friendships and relationship between characters, romantic and not. This is something Therin does well in all her books. While the main plot is romantic, the platonic and familial relationships between all characters are thought out and well represented.

Didn't work well:
- A lot of repetition of texts and previous conversations, repeating content without adding new perspectives or connections.
- Too many perspectives, particularly of minor characters, which required more attention than I had to give and made the story less engaging.

ARC received from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Anxietea · Rating 5 out of 5]

First, thank you so much to NetGalley and the author for the opportunity to read an advanced copy. I absolutely devoured this book and adored every second of it!

Reece and Grayson are completely addictive, and even while they’re very much enemies in this one, these two little dodos still can’t stay away from each other. Therin absolutely nails the friends-to-lovers-to-enemies-to-lovers dynamic. Normally, I’m not a huge fan of that trope because it is hard for me to believe when characters suddenly do a complete 180 with their feelings toward each other. But Therin handles it perfectly. Reece and Grayson may be on completely opposing sides, but that never erases the relationship and connection they built before the corruption. And honestly, corrupted Reece’s sass level being dialed up to an 11 had me cackling!

I was on the edge of my seat waiting to see how this story would wrap up, and Therin DELIVERED!!! (Not that I ever doubted it — I’ve read and loved everything she’s written.) No spoilers, of course, but the ending was sweet, satisfying, but still seems to leave the door open for more stories in this world. But that could be just me hoping for a companion or sequel series like Magic in Manhattan and Roaring 20s.

10/10. No notes. I can’t recommend this series enough!

[Guusje Bressers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Where to even start :). This was the conclusions of the gripping urban fantasy MM romance serie. This is series is quite the ride. The sugar & vice series is a very slow burn paranormal romance with political intrigue, complex family dynamics, (unexpected) friendships, love and complicated enemies. The character's and character development is complex and excuted very well. You have to pay attention while reading or listening to this series. The first two books I listened to and are narrated very well by one of my favourite narrator's. This last book I had the honour of receiving an ARC in exchange for my honest review. I recommend either platform (listening and reading).
This book had me on the edge of my seat it tension and action was intense. However Allie therin is great in breaking this tension with humour, banter and snark. Which makes the tension so much easier to navigate and handle. I was scared for the ending and reading other reviews I have seen mixed responses to the ending. Without spoiling anything I really loved the ending I think it was executed very well and with integrity for the story and the MMc's. It might even leave room for more books set in this world. I highly recommend reading this (series) book.

[Shelly Cerullo · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think I still have the same quibbles about the world building as I did with the first two books (like, were empaths created or did they evolve spontaneously? SURELY there are some empaths who enjoy contact sports?! Why are they all so uniform in what does and doesn’t cause harm, humans don’t work like that? Unless they WERE the product of experiments and then we’re back to my first and overarching confusion about the world building) but honestly the ship was landed SO GOOD on an emotional level I just can’t help but adore the ride. Also I demand a spinoff book with Gretel and Alex, they are such delightful weirdos together??? Gosh that really was worth the wait and the buildup as long as you’re OK with the world building possibly making less sense than the X-Men 😂

(This is an honest review given in exchange for a free earc. Y’all, please this entire trilogy ASAP and thank me later, iajs.)

[Heather Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a fantastic finish to the series! It picks up almost immediately after book two. This was fast-paced and full of feelings. I didn’t want to put it down!

I had no idea how everything was going to work out. It was so satisfying to see it all come together. Evan and Reece spent a lot of this one as enemies but it’s obvious they still want each other. This leads to plenty of snarky texts interactions where the tension is through the roof.

I thought the new mysteries and overarching plot were handled well. It felt like we were getting another piece of the puzzle with every POV swap. There wasn’t a POV that I didn’t enjoy but I do wish we got a little more Evan and Reece. As well as Alex! I would’ve like for him and Evan to interact a little more.

I loved these characters and while I’m sad it’s over everything came together for a great conclusion. The culmination of their slow-burn romance was done so well! Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for my eARC!

[Corinne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Much closer to three stars on paper and in some ways, five stars in my heart, so I'm splitting the difference.

I read this book in one day and then re-read my favourite bits the next day. I'm still thinking about Reese and Grayson today and expect I will be for a while (as I did after book two.)

Here's the thing: the plot holes in this series are numerous and immense, and yet, I totally feel like I get what the author was going for (plus I am not one who is much for plot.) The fact that I bought into the moral of the story, and that I found the characters and their connection so compelling was enough for me to make a deliberate decision to not look too closely at the plot, to take the often clumsy exposition as a gift and to spend my energy focusing on the characters. If you think you can do the same, then I would recommend reading this for the relationship payoff alone.

P.S. I would pay good money to read any kind of bonus epilogue material!

I received a digital Advance Reader Copy from NetGalley and Harlequin/Carina Adores in exchange for an honest review.

[Ele · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm very grateful to have received the ARC

ARC COPY REVIEW
no spoilers just vibes

genre: urban paranormal thriller mmromance series
queer: yes: bi, mm, some sapphic thirst traps (i enjoy those) and even some cool straights
spicy on page: yes, romantic & spicy, in line with the plot & pacing

Very good pacing, skilled use of limited POV writing, sweet & funny at times, not for care bears at other times

"TW": Readers torture by author through romantic suspense: hot & cold push & pull!

I loved the slow burn & the step-by-step progress the mc were making, loved the eventual turn of events, the choices they made, the how, the why. Hated my impatience and being torn between rushing the romance to their HEA and taking in the thriller plot, and aaaall the other players. I love how in her books the side-characters matter throughout the series a

I loved reading it, sad & happy after reading it

Secretly hoping there will be more