What do you think?
Rate this book
The Merlin Mysteries #4
Witch Under Fire
Being the Merlin of Gallows Gate was supposed to get easier. It hasn’t.
My magic has changed, again, and nobody can tell me if that’s a good thing or the kind of thing that gets you quietly erased by the Merlin Group. They’ve put me “under review,” which is bureaucratic language We think you’re a walking magical catastrophe.
To be fair… they’re not wrong.
And then there’s the stranger I can’t shake.
He’s appeared out of nowhere, too calm, too curious, and far too invested in what’s happening to my magic. Nothing good ever comes from attention like that.
Meanwhile, Eryk’s dragonborne legacy is tightening its claws around him. Dragons don’t like witches. Dragons really don’t like me. And the feeling is mutual.
Now the Merlin Group is circling, the dragons are restless, and my magic is doing… whatever the hell it wants. If I can’t get control of any of it, I won’t just lose my license. I might lose the people I care about.
Maybe even myself.
No pressure. I’ve survived worse.
Probably.
My magic has changed, again, and nobody can tell me if that’s a good thing or the kind of thing that gets you quietly erased by the Merlin Group. They’ve put me “under review,” which is bureaucratic language We think you’re a walking magical catastrophe.
To be fair… they’re not wrong.
And then there’s the stranger I can’t shake.
He’s appeared out of nowhere, too calm, too curious, and far too invested in what’s happening to my magic. Nothing good ever comes from attention like that.
Meanwhile, Eryk’s dragonborne legacy is tightening its claws around him. Dragons don’t like witches. Dragons really don’t like me. And the feeling is mutual.
Now the Merlin Group is circling, the dragons are restless, and my magic is doing… whatever the hell it wants. If I can’t get control of any of it, I won’t just lose my license. I might lose the people I care about.
Maybe even myself.
No pressure. I’ve survived worse.
Probably.
384 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 9, 2025
About the author
Kim Richardson
109 books1,307 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.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
June 11, 2026
4.5 Stars:)
January 3, 2026
Rhea Morven and generations of the Morven witch family have been cursed, so that when their magic comes into its power they basically lose their sanity and go crazy. With Rhea’s magic changing, and evolving, danger is lurking with each change.
The power in the Richardson novels story development is in how Richardson builds powerful characters and communities - Rhea’s small, close knit community nurtures and supports her, Rheas’s sassy and yet nurturing friendships with her two gal pal besties and pal Monty, her deepening feelings for Eryk, and her loyalty to Gallows Gate are unwavering. She is all in for her community and fiercely defends her town as the resident Merlin even with her complicated magical job.
Throw in that Rhea falls in love with dragons Eryk, a taboo and major NOOOOooo, no crossover allowed in dragon worlds it sets off a war among dragon kin and it’s wild child on steroids week for Rhea.
Rhea also meets the god Kael that cursed her family(yet another quite unwelcome shocker for her, particularly since Kael is intrigued by her and pops in frequently at his whim regardless of what Rhea and her community want or need is irrelevant - after eons, Kael is thriving on the entertaining of “new”), the evil Director Lysander (I picture Cruella de Ville brilliantly played by Glenn Close) that wants her power is trying to steal it again is back AGAIN with new tricks and a bigger plan and this story is roller coaster OFF the rails action packed WILD for thriller action junkies and a totally worth while read.
The power in the Richardson novels story development is in how Richardson builds powerful characters and communities - Rhea’s small, close knit community nurtures and supports her, Rheas’s sassy and yet nurturing friendships with her two gal pal besties and pal Monty, her deepening feelings for Eryk, and her loyalty to Gallows Gate are unwavering. She is all in for her community and fiercely defends her town as the resident Merlin even with her complicated magical job.
Throw in that Rhea falls in love with dragons Eryk, a taboo and major NOOOOooo, no crossover allowed in dragon worlds it sets off a war among dragon kin and it’s wild child on steroids week for Rhea.
Rhea also meets the god Kael that cursed her family(yet another quite unwelcome shocker for her, particularly since Kael is intrigued by her and pops in frequently at his whim regardless of what Rhea and her community want or need is irrelevant - after eons, Kael is thriving on the entertaining of “new”), the evil Director Lysander (I picture Cruella de Ville brilliantly played by Glenn Close) that wants her power is trying to steal it again is back AGAIN with new tricks and a bigger plan and this story is roller coaster OFF the rails action packed WILD for thriller action junkies and a totally worth while read.
December 12, 2025
good
She survived the Hollowed, now Rhea has to survive the Dragon Legacy, and the judgement of the Merlin group. This might be a much surer thing, if only she knew exactly what defeating he curse had done to her magic!
Picking up a few days after the end of the last book, we find Rhea trying to come to terms with the fact that her curse is now gone. It’s not the end of her troubles though, as she has to face the one member of the Merlin group who has always had it in for her, and then there is her romance with Eryk Ro worry about (not, it’s not going smoothly).
The book ends on a fairly high note, with a lot of loose ends tied up neatly, and Rhea poised for her own new beginning- which hopefully means some more stories in the future, and a little bit more explanation about exactly what her magic is doing!
It’s a fast paced story, with some tear jerking moments, and plenty of action and magic to go with it, as well as a nicely rounded off story arc.
If you’re a fan of paranormal mystery or urban fantasy, then this is an enjoyable and intriguing series.
She survived the Hollowed, now Rhea has to survive the Dragon Legacy, and the judgement of the Merlin group. This might be a much surer thing, if only she knew exactly what defeating he curse had done to her magic!
Picking up a few days after the end of the last book, we find Rhea trying to come to terms with the fact that her curse is now gone. It’s not the end of her troubles though, as she has to face the one member of the Merlin group who has always had it in for her, and then there is her romance with Eryk Ro worry about (not, it’s not going smoothly).
The book ends on a fairly high note, with a lot of loose ends tied up neatly, and Rhea poised for her own new beginning- which hopefully means some more stories in the future, and a little bit more explanation about exactly what her magic is doing!
It’s a fast paced story, with some tear jerking moments, and plenty of action and magic to go with it, as well as a nicely rounded off story arc.
If you’re a fan of paranormal mystery or urban fantasy, then this is an enjoyable and intriguing series.
February 14, 2026
Witch Under Fire is a solid addition to the series, but it’s a bit of a mixed bag this time around. While the world-building remains engaging, the pacing felt off due to some narrative choices.
The book struggled with its focus. The introduction of Kael the Death God felt like an unnecessary subplot. Instead of raising the stakes, his presence felt like a distraction that didn't add much real depth to the overarching plot. I found myself wanting to get back to the main conflict every time his arc took center stage.
However, the resolution with Lyssandra was incredibly satisfying. It felt earned and provided the emotional payoff I was looking for after the tension built up throughout the story. Watching their dynamic reach that specific turning point was easily the most compelling part of the read.
If you’re a fan of the series, it’s worth the read just for the character development between the leads and that final act. But be prepared to wade through some filler that doesn't quite hit the mark.
The book struggled with its focus. The introduction of Kael the Death God felt like an unnecessary subplot. Instead of raising the stakes, his presence felt like a distraction that didn't add much real depth to the overarching plot. I found myself wanting to get back to the main conflict every time his arc took center stage.
However, the resolution with Lyssandra was incredibly satisfying. It felt earned and provided the emotional payoff I was looking for after the tension built up throughout the story. Watching their dynamic reach that specific turning point was easily the most compelling part of the read.
If you’re a fan of the series, it’s worth the read just for the character development between the leads and that final act. But be prepared to wade through some filler that doesn't quite hit the mark.
December 15, 2025
There's a strange message on the automatic typewriter warning her about her dragon boyfriend. That's the mildest thing that goes on as the situation gets really bad rather quickly. You have a dark god show up, having taken an interest in her. Then there's a confrontation with a dragon lady who is rather upset with her.
Things get worse as Lysandra, of the Merlin Group, shows her true colors. Her own powers start to grow quite a bit and that is yet another thing she has to adapt to, and yes, even more things go wrong for her. It all boils down to whether or not she and those she cares for can survive what Lysandra is trying to do.
So, all Rhea has to do is survive having a dark god whose taken an interest in her, survive what happens to her dragon boyfriend, survive what Lysandra is trying to do and survive whatever it is the council is planning on doing.
Probably it'll keep her rather busy for a while.
Really good conclusion to the series.
Things get worse as Lysandra, of the Merlin Group, shows her true colors. Her own powers start to grow quite a bit and that is yet another thing she has to adapt to, and yes, even more things go wrong for her. It all boils down to whether or not she and those she cares for can survive what Lysandra is trying to do.
So, all Rhea has to do is survive having a dark god whose taken an interest in her, survive what happens to her dragon boyfriend, survive what Lysandra is trying to do and survive whatever it is the council is planning on doing.
Probably it'll keep her rather busy for a while.
Really good conclusion to the series.
December 20, 2025
Simply Sensational.
The world-building and character development skills are extraordinary, with the narrative truly taking flight through the author's masterful plot construction. In this narrative, the characters—Rhea, Morty, Marla, Selene, and Eryk—leap off the page with startling immediacy, their personalities rendered with such intricate precision that readers are instantly drawn into their world. The author's masterful dialogue crackles with wit and nuance, each exchange revealing layers of complexity that illuminate the characters' inner landscapes, transforming the story into a vibrant, emotionally resonant experience.
The world-building and character development skills are extraordinary, with the narrative truly taking flight through the author's masterful plot construction. In this narrative, the characters—Rhea, Morty, Marla, Selene, and Eryk—leap off the page with startling immediacy, their personalities rendered with such intricate precision that readers are instantly drawn into their world. The author's masterful dialogue crackles with wit and nuance, each exchange revealing layers of complexity that illuminate the characters' inner landscapes, transforming the story into a vibrant, emotionally resonant experience.
February 16, 2026
Paranormal RomCom in a Small Town
I always enjoy Kim Richardson. She delivers exciting adventures, quirky characters, & witty remarks that are sure to grace your face with a smile. The series vibes are Paranormal x Cheesy Hallmark Small Town x Cutesy RomCom x Found Family x Embracing Yourself / Quirks. It checks all the boxes for a fun lighthearted engaging read. Read this series - giggles will be had, feelings will be felt, & you will leave being invested in what happens next. (I wish I could give it a 4.5 stars)
I always enjoy Kim Richardson. She delivers exciting adventures, quirky characters, & witty remarks that are sure to grace your face with a smile. The series vibes are Paranormal x Cheesy Hallmark Small Town x Cutesy RomCom x Found Family x Embracing Yourself / Quirks. It checks all the boxes for a fun lighthearted engaging read. Read this series - giggles will be had, feelings will be felt, & you will leave being invested in what happens next. (I wish I could give it a 4.5 stars)
August 23, 2026
Bruja bajo asedio.
¿Un Dios, Kael, que “acosa” a Rhea?, ¿Se libera Rhea del Dios?, ¿Prevalece el amor entre Rhea y Eryk?, ¿Otro Merlin quiere quitarle la magia a Rhea, quien?, ¿Morty, el fantasma, o ex fantasma, podrá salir de la estación Merlin?, y ¿…? Esta historia tiene tantos dramas consecutivos que la hacen extremadamente interesante. Y cuando creas que finalizo, sigue leyendo, que todavía queda mas. No te aburrirás.
¿Un Dios, Kael, que “acosa” a Rhea?, ¿Se libera Rhea del Dios?, ¿Prevalece el amor entre Rhea y Eryk?, ¿Otro Merlin quiere quitarle la magia a Rhea, quien?, ¿Morty, el fantasma, o ex fantasma, podrá salir de la estación Merlin?, y ¿…? Esta historia tiene tantos dramas consecutivos que la hacen extremadamente interesante. Y cuando creas que finalizo, sigue leyendo, que todavía queda mas. No te aburrirás.
January 30, 2026
This series was expected. FMC has weird powers, saves the day by repeatedly heading directly into danger.
Two things bugged me. One, the ancestor who started the curse was referred to as a woman then in another book as a man then I think might have been switched back to a woman in the final book. Two, FMC forgave MMC way too fast.
Two things bugged me. One, the ancestor who started the curse was referred to as a woman then in another book as a man then I think might have been switched back to a woman in the final book. Two, FMC forgave MMC way too fast.
February 27, 2026
Lets’s cheer the Merlin witches
From Tessa Davenport to Rhea Morven, Kim Richardson weaves tales of supernatural crime fighting and inter-species romance, with a cast a various greedy evil people. There is no cliffhanger or disappointment that the next book is months away. The fifth book is something to be happily anticipated.
From Tessa Davenport to Rhea Morven, Kim Richardson weaves tales of supernatural crime fighting and inter-species romance, with a cast a various greedy evil people. There is no cliffhanger or disappointment that the next book is months away. The fifth book is something to be happily anticipated.
December 14, 2025
Such a great series
I can only say how much I enjoyed this series. I couldn't wait for each book and then devoured it. Plot, characters etc. all came together and melded. Kim Richardson, it was a great read.
I can only say how much I enjoyed this series. I couldn't wait for each book and then devoured it. Plot, characters etc. all came together and melded. Kim Richardson, it was a great read.
December 31, 2025
brilliant end to the series
Well, not what I expected, but so much more. I’ve really enjoyed this series, and this last book - just brilliant! Now I need to re-read the whole lot to catch what I missed first time round…
Well, not what I expected, but so much more. I’ve really enjoyed this series, and this last book - just brilliant! Now I need to re-read the whole lot to catch what I missed first time round…
December 14, 2025
Fantastic read!
I just can’t get enough of all these characters. I love the humor and the unique storytelling. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series!
I just can’t get enough of all these characters. I love the humor and the unique storytelling. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series!
December 16, 2025
More to come?
A nice tie up that leaves room for future installments. I’m admittedly a sucker for happy endings and for the universe created here, this certainly qualifies.
A nice tie up that leaves room for future installments. I’m admittedly a sucker for happy endings and for the universe created here, this certainly qualifies.
December 23, 2025
Breath taking
Glad she finally got her man. Has girl earned it or not! Awesome time for the bottom to fall out. Lol, can't wait.
Glad she finally got her man. Has girl earned it or not! Awesome time for the bottom to fall out. Lol, can't wait.
Read
December 28, 2025Loved this series, has it all, fun, fights, fury and romance just to mellow it all.
January 1, 2026
awesome
What a great series! I loved every minute of it. I will read more by Kim Richardson. I expected the ending with Eryk but that’s okay. I read stories with good endings.
What a great series! I loved every minute of it. I will read more by Kim Richardson. I expected the ending with Eryk but that’s okay. I read stories with good endings.
January 28, 2026
A great read
Wonderful cast of characters.i don't usually like drago shifters, but this guy was different . Not a sappy romance . Lots of fun
Wonderful cast of characters.i don't usually like drago shifters, but this guy was different . Not a sappy romance . Lots of fun
February 8, 2026
God evil or just bored
Book four the storyline continues her new relationship gets tested. It ends all tidy. I think the God cares for her in his own way? Here's hoping
Book four the storyline continues her new relationship gets tested. It ends all tidy. I think the God cares for her in his own way? Here's hoping
February 10, 2026
Well this has turned into a fantastic series. The first book was a little underwhelming but it has rolled out better and better. Highly recommend this series.
February 12, 2026
EXCEPTIONAL !!!!!
I absolutely loved this book 4. It was so exciting from beginning to the very end. This whole series is definitely worth reading.
I absolutely loved this book 4. It was so exciting from beginning to the very end. This whole series is definitely worth reading.
February 15, 2026
I love this series. The characters are fun and the mysteries/crimes they solve are intriguing. I hope more books in this series come out.
April 7, 2026
Brilliant
This is another brilliant read in an already brilliant series, i thoroughly enjoy reading how far the main character has come.
This is another brilliant read in an already brilliant series, i thoroughly enjoy reading how far the main character has come.
April 12, 2026
Great series
This is a great read. I couldn't put it down.
Loved how everything flowed and the dragon and witch magic is awesome.
Absolutely will recommend to friends .
This is a great read. I couldn't put it down.
Loved how everything flowed and the dragon and witch magic is awesome.
Absolutely will recommend to friends .
May 12, 2026
This series is awesome!
I love reading Kim Richardson's books.
I get pulled into every story easily.
I am excited to see where and what Rhea does next in her Merlin journey!
I love reading Kim Richardson's books.
I get pulled into every story easily.
I am excited to see where and what Rhea does next in her Merlin journey!
May 26, 2026
fun
Light easy read. Great characters, friendships and enemies. Fast reading. Not too much filler. Very enjoyable. Once you start can’t put it doen
Light easy read. Great characters, friendships and enemies. Fast reading. Not too much filler. Very enjoyable. Once you start can’t put it doen
July 9, 2026
Excelente aventura
Cómo siempre Excelente, buen cierre de capitulo y con ansias de conocer nuevas aventuras. Felicidades Kim
Listo para el siguiente capítulo!
.......
....
....
Cómo siempre Excelente, buen cierre de capitulo y con ansias de conocer nuevas aventuras. Felicidades Kim
Listo para el siguiente capítulo!
.......
....
....
August 24, 2026
no more housework
When I’m reading this series nothing gets done. I have good intentions but, once I start I can’t put it down. I’m SO enjoying this journey.
When I’m reading this series nothing gets done. I have good intentions but, once I start I can’t put it down. I’m SO enjoying this journey.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews