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The Edge of Mercy
I don’t have time to fall in love.
I barely have time to breathe.
Between relocating my family law practice from Chicago, building a new house while I live with my sister's family, and raising my infant grandson, I'm operating beyond my limits. The last thing I need is more complication.
Then Elise Novac walks back into Colson Creek.
She’s more than I remembered—breathtaking, intelligent, composed, and completely impossible to ignore. I should keep my distance while she goes through an ugly, very public divorce.
Elise didn’t come home for a fresh start. She came because she ran out of options. Her husband is powerful, relentless, and very much done pretending he’ll let her go. And even though he lives in New York, his reach extends all the way to Colson Creek, Minnesota.
So I make her an offer.
A job. A place to stay. A way to buy some time and put her life back together while she figures out her next chapter.
She says yes—but with rules.
There are lines she'll never allow me to cross, and no matter how much I want her, she refuses to blur them.
In Colson Creek, nothing stays private for long. Not secrets. Not desires. Not the kind of past that follows you home.
I barely have time to breathe.
Between relocating my family law practice from Chicago, building a new house while I live with my sister's family, and raising my infant grandson, I'm operating beyond my limits. The last thing I need is more complication.
Then Elise Novac walks back into Colson Creek.
She’s more than I remembered—breathtaking, intelligent, composed, and completely impossible to ignore. I should keep my distance while she goes through an ugly, very public divorce.
Elise didn’t come home for a fresh start. She came because she ran out of options. Her husband is powerful, relentless, and very much done pretending he’ll let her go. And even though he lives in New York, his reach extends all the way to Colson Creek, Minnesota.
So I make her an offer.
A job. A place to stay. A way to buy some time and put her life back together while she figures out her next chapter.
She says yes—but with rules.
There are lines she'll never allow me to cross, and no matter how much I want her, she refuses to blur them.
In Colson Creek, nothing stays private for long. Not secrets. Not desires. Not the kind of past that follows you home.
ebook
Published September 15, 2026
About the author
Erin FitzGerald
32 books163 followersErin believes every story should have a happy ending and that very few characters are completely irredeemable.
She lives in the Metro DC area with her husband and two children, in a house full of pets and plants.
She lives in the Metro DC area with her husband and two children, in a house full of pets and plants.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
October 4, 2026
Thank you for the arc Erin!! When you said slow burn, you meant it for this one! The tension & yearning finally came to a head in the last 15-ish%, and thank goodness it did. Poor Gage (and us readers) may have combusted otherwise 😂
Gage Campbell finds himself the newly appointed guardian of his grandson Nico. Hiring Elise as a live-in nanny not only provides him with reliable care for Nico, it also gives Elise a place to hide while she awaits the finalization of her divorce. Gage has been in love with Elise for years, so it’s too bad she plans on leaving for a convent as soon as her divorce is recognized by the church.
Elise is (lovingly and respectfully) delusional if she thinks she’ll still leave for a convent after spending time with Gage & Nico 😂 that man is a walking green flag, who sees what needs to be done and just simply does it. And the fact that Elise was willing to move mountains for him just as much?? Ugh I wanted to cry 🫠
Erin has surprised me with plot twist endings before, but I’m happy to say I clocked this one! Leave it to me to question why two characters had such fiery chemistry if one wasn’t actually available?? Why would you do this Erin?? Unless… 😉😂
I’ll note that this book does lean heavier into Elise’s religion and faith than previous books in this series have. Which, makes sense, given the fact that her faith is extremely important to her. It’s not normally my thing to read, but I’m pretty neutral about it overall, considering how far into this series I am, knowing full well that faith is an underlying tone with the Benson family. I just know some people prefer not to read about it at all, which is the only reason I’m mentioning it :)
Gage Campbell finds himself the newly appointed guardian of his grandson Nico. Hiring Elise as a live-in nanny not only provides him with reliable care for Nico, it also gives Elise a place to hide while she awaits the finalization of her divorce. Gage has been in love with Elise for years, so it’s too bad she plans on leaving for a convent as soon as her divorce is recognized by the church.
Elise is (lovingly and respectfully) delusional if she thinks she’ll still leave for a convent after spending time with Gage & Nico 😂 that man is a walking green flag, who sees what needs to be done and just simply does it. And the fact that Elise was willing to move mountains for him just as much?? Ugh I wanted to cry 🫠
Erin has surprised me with plot twist endings before, but I’m happy to say I clocked this one! Leave it to me to question why two characters had such fiery chemistry if one wasn’t actually available?? Why would you do this Erin?? Unless… 😉😂
I’ll note that this book does lean heavier into Elise’s religion and faith than previous books in this series have. Which, makes sense, given the fact that her faith is extremely important to her. It’s not normally my thing to read, but I’m pretty neutral about it overall, considering how far into this series I am, knowing full well that faith is an underlying tone with the Benson family. I just know some people prefer not to read about it at all, which is the only reason I’m mentioning it :)
September 20, 2026
There’s a lot going on in Colson Creek, Minnesota. Gage is busy raising his infant grandson and relocating his family law practice from Chicago. His ex is determined to gain custody of the child, not because she’s actually interested in raising her grandchild but because she knows it will hurt Gage.
Elise has returned to Colson Creek hoping to find some peace. She’s in the middle of a nasty, contested divorce. Her husband refuses to let her go. Not because he loves her but because he likes to keep up appearances. He has mob connections and is playing dirty. He’s also having her watched and things are escalating.
Gage had a huge crush on Elise in high school and finds he’s just as attracted to her now as he was back then. He offers Elise a job as nanny to his grandson, Nico (Nicolas). She’s reluctant but finally agrees. She quickly falls in love with Nico and realizes she’s developing feelings for Gage as well, but refuses to act on them because she’s already made future plans for when her divorce is finalized, and they don’t include romance, another traditional marriage, or a baby.
Things aren’t always as they seem. There’s more going on than meets the eye.
I didn’t see that ending coming! There’s a cliffhanger and a bit of a wait to see what happens next. An edge-of-your seat thriller.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Elise has returned to Colson Creek hoping to find some peace. She’s in the middle of a nasty, contested divorce. Her husband refuses to let her go. Not because he loves her but because he likes to keep up appearances. He has mob connections and is playing dirty. He’s also having her watched and things are escalating.
Gage had a huge crush on Elise in high school and finds he’s just as attracted to her now as he was back then. He offers Elise a job as nanny to his grandson, Nico (Nicolas). She’s reluctant but finally agrees. She quickly falls in love with Nico and realizes she’s developing feelings for Gage as well, but refuses to act on them because she’s already made future plans for when her divorce is finalized, and they don’t include romance, another traditional marriage, or a baby.
Things aren’t always as they seem. There’s more going on than meets the eye.
I didn’t see that ending coming! There’s a cliffhanger and a bit of a wait to see what happens next. An edge-of-your seat thriller.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 22, 2026
I don’t think I have to say it again, but I will anyway lol: Erin is one of those authors where, if she writes it, I’m reading it without hesitation.
I loved Elise and Gage and I will say once again that one of my absolute favorite things about Erin’s books is that her characters are older, usually in their 40s and 50s. They’ve lived lives, they have history, and they come into their relationships with experiences that shape who they are. These two were no different. They were both coming out of horrible marriages, Elise dealing with a shady, and vindictive ex, while Gage was not only dealing with his own pretty ex but also caring for his grandson.
I really enjoyed how slow the buildup was. We got their relationship in pieces, and I kept finding myself thinking, And I have to say…the moment was absolutely worth waiting for, honestly Trish was my favorite but I’m glad she stepped in and kept Elise prepped and ready
Which brings me to my next point, I was literally like 80% into this book when I realized there haven’t been ONE single scene of spice. And I was extremely happy about that, the romance and buildup were allowed to actually develop without the spice taking over the story.
Now, that plot twist?! wtf .I truly didn’t see that coming, but at the same time, I feel like I should have. Looking back, the clues were definitely there, and I kept thinking how are the next couple going to end up together!
Which leads us to Malachi’s story.. I already felt the tension but I’m looking forward to seeing how it plays out
September 16, 2026
The Edge of Mercy is another great installment in the Colson Creek series. Gage is in a custody battle for his infant grandson and Elise is trying to get a divorce from her very dangerous husband. Gage has had feelings for Elise for quite some time and becomes very protective of her once he finds out she's in danger. I hope you have some patience because the burn is slow in this one and the suspense definitely kept me turning the page. It was a definite adventure for these two to get to their HEA. I loved seeing the Benson family and love how they step up and protect each other. This group is fiercely loyal and will do anything to protect the ones they love.
This story didn't end on a cliffhanger but it definitely let me with some questions!! Can't wait for more!
Thank you Erin FitzGerald for this e-ARC. All opinions are my own.
This story didn't end on a cliffhanger but it definitely let me with some questions!! Can't wait for more!
Thank you Erin FitzGerald for this e-ARC. All opinions are my own.
September 16, 2026
This book is a wonderfully twisty and suspenseful tale with fascinating and compelling characters. Gage is a divorced family law attorney who is doing his best to raise the grandson his daughter abandoned. His spiteful ex-wife is also suing for custody, not because she actually wants to raise her grandson, but because Gage does. Gabe has moved back to Colson Creek to be close to family and live life at a slower pace. He intends to open his own law practice, but will be working remotely for a bit once he is off parental leave. Seeing Elise, his teenage crush, back in their small home town is a surprise. Then he learns she is seeking a divorce from her powerful and wealthy husband of almost thirty years. Gage puts her in touch with a lawyer, one who will not be intimidated by her husband. Shortly thereafter, Elise takes on the job of nanny for young Nico, his grandson. Security becomes a major concern as Elise’s husband, who has mob or mafia connections, is having her watched. Thankfully, this community is well used to protecting their own and has plenty of contacts and connections with security experts.
Gage struggles to hide his attraction to Elise. All the old feelings he once had for her are resurfacing, but she has made it clear that she is not interested in anything other than being his friend. She has made a decision to enter a convent once her divorce is final and the church allows her to do so. Seeing Elise with little Nico stirs all sorts of feelings and desires in Gage, but he will not pressure Elise in any way. The security team, their friends and their families all notice the lingering glances Gage and Elise give each other when they think the other isn’t looking, as well as the palpable pull between them. Some encourage Gage to make his feelings known, while the ladies try to persuade Elise to reconsider entering a convent.
Frustrated with her husband who is stonewalling the divorce, Elise decides to play hardball and offers information to the authorities about her husband’s businesses. This puts her in even more danger, not only from her husband, but from those associated with him. A terrifying accident brings that fact home. She faces a long recovery and even more security put in place. Elise’s time with Gage and little Nico is extended as she awaits her divorce and now a criminal case against her husband. Gage and Elise have come to know each other very well and both have feelings that go well beyond friendship. Still, she insists that her future is in a convent. Not even her sharp-tongued and very bossy sister can convince her to change her mind. This story takes another very unexpected twist, one that changes everything for Gage and Elise, and unfortunately for people close to them.
While this book has it dark and emotional moments, it also has some very funny and sweet moments. The ladies in Elise and Gage’s extended friends and family group are sassy, irreverent, boss ladies. They offer unconditional support when needed, but they can be pushy, bold and outspoken. They don’t take no for an answer, are very sure of themselves and for the most part it is better to get out of their way. They all have hearts of gold, and will ride or die for each other. The guys in the group are also ride or die, given to teasing and thumping each other, and known for showing up at a moments notice when there is trouble. They are all possessive, protective and fiercely loyal. Gage, Elise and little Nico are part of the extended family, well supported, loved and protected.
This book was an exceptional read and I look forward to reading the next books in the series.
Gage struggles to hide his attraction to Elise. All the old feelings he once had for her are resurfacing, but she has made it clear that she is not interested in anything other than being his friend. She has made a decision to enter a convent once her divorce is final and the church allows her to do so. Seeing Elise with little Nico stirs all sorts of feelings and desires in Gage, but he will not pressure Elise in any way. The security team, their friends and their families all notice the lingering glances Gage and Elise give each other when they think the other isn’t looking, as well as the palpable pull between them. Some encourage Gage to make his feelings known, while the ladies try to persuade Elise to reconsider entering a convent.
Frustrated with her husband who is stonewalling the divorce, Elise decides to play hardball and offers information to the authorities about her husband’s businesses. This puts her in even more danger, not only from her husband, but from those associated with him. A terrifying accident brings that fact home. She faces a long recovery and even more security put in place. Elise’s time with Gage and little Nico is extended as she awaits her divorce and now a criminal case against her husband. Gage and Elise have come to know each other very well and both have feelings that go well beyond friendship. Still, she insists that her future is in a convent. Not even her sharp-tongued and very bossy sister can convince her to change her mind. This story takes another very unexpected twist, one that changes everything for Gage and Elise, and unfortunately for people close to them.
While this book has it dark and emotional moments, it also has some very funny and sweet moments. The ladies in Elise and Gage’s extended friends and family group are sassy, irreverent, boss ladies. They offer unconditional support when needed, but they can be pushy, bold and outspoken. They don’t take no for an answer, are very sure of themselves and for the most part it is better to get out of their way. They all have hearts of gold, and will ride or die for each other. The guys in the group are also ride or die, given to teasing and thumping each other, and known for showing up at a moments notice when there is trouble. They are all possessive, protective and fiercely loyal. Gage, Elise and little Nico are part of the extended family, well supported, loved and protected.
This book was an exceptional read and I look forward to reading the next books in the series.
September 15, 2026
𝔸𝕍𝔸𝕀𝕃𝔸𝔹𝕃𝔼 ℕ𝕆𝕎
𝒯𝒽𝑒 𝐸𝒹𝑔𝑒 𝑜𝒻 𝑀𝑒𝓇𝒸𝓎
Book 6 in the Colson Creek Series
By Erin Fitzgerald
👓📿𝓐𝓡𝓒 𝓡𝓮𝓿𝓲𝓮𝔀📿👓
Gage. He’s a smitten golden retriever who has crushed on Elise since HIGH SCHOOL and he’s almost 50. Not gonna lie, Gage stole my heart immediately especially as a newly single dad, fighting for custody of his grandson. He’s moved back to Colson Creek to be near his sister and the Benson family who’ve basically adopted him and baby Nico.
Elise. She’s in a bit of a hot mess, trying to divorce her very dangerous, powerful husband and ultimately join a convent. Yep. You read that right. In the meantime, she’s also returned to Colson Creek to be near her sister but her husband isn’t about to let her go and doesn’t care who’s in the way. However, he’s never gone up against the Benson family, a fierce protective group of both family and friends who unite to protect their own.
“𝘎𝘢𝘨𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘨𝘰𝘳𝘨𝘦𝘰𝘶𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘢𝘨𝘯𝘦𝘵𝘪𝘤, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘨𝘭𝘢𝘴𝘴𝘦𝘴 𝘥𝘪𝘥 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘮𝘺 𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨-𝘥𝘦𝘢𝘥 𝘭𝘪𝘣𝘪𝘥𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘐 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘪𝘢𝘵𝘦.” A complication Elise doesn’t want but . . . a possible future she never expected.
This is a very slow burn, romantic suspense story about second chances after years of being with the WRONG partner. It’s about life changing decisions. Choices. Found family dynamics. Good versus evil and that grey area in-between. And it gives us a taste of small town family life that provides a certain peace among the chaos.
“𝘐𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘳𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘢𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘋𝘰𝘯𝘯𝘢 𝘉𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘰𝘯 𝘩𝘢𝘥 𝘣𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘢 𝘴𝘢𝘷𝘪𝘰𝘳 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘺, 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘣𝘪𝘨𝘨𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘣𝘰𝘥𝘺.”
There’s a great deal of turmoil in this book and Gage and Elise have to navigate their emotions thru it all. As we barrel on toward the conclusion (which is fraught with drama) Elise finally discovers her truth (Gage is worth every moment of her angst) and just as the danger may be subsiding. . . buckle up.
No actual cliffhanger here as Erin does give us a HEA , BUT she leaves us with certain questions unanswered and relationships that have been turned upside down. Most importantly, she teases us with the next Colson Creek book that quite frankly has me salivating!
𝒯𝒽𝑒 𝐸𝒹𝑔𝑒 𝑜𝒻 𝑀𝑒𝓇𝒸𝓎
Book 6 in the Colson Creek Series
By Erin Fitzgerald
👓📿𝓐𝓡𝓒 𝓡𝓮𝓿𝓲𝓮𝔀📿👓
Gage. He’s a smitten golden retriever who has crushed on Elise since HIGH SCHOOL and he’s almost 50. Not gonna lie, Gage stole my heart immediately especially as a newly single dad, fighting for custody of his grandson. He’s moved back to Colson Creek to be near his sister and the Benson family who’ve basically adopted him and baby Nico.
Elise. She’s in a bit of a hot mess, trying to divorce her very dangerous, powerful husband and ultimately join a convent. Yep. You read that right. In the meantime, she’s also returned to Colson Creek to be near her sister but her husband isn’t about to let her go and doesn’t care who’s in the way. However, he’s never gone up against the Benson family, a fierce protective group of both family and friends who unite to protect their own.
“𝘎𝘢𝘨𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘨𝘰𝘳𝘨𝘦𝘰𝘶𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘢𝘨𝘯𝘦𝘵𝘪𝘤, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘨𝘭𝘢𝘴𝘴𝘦𝘴 𝘥𝘪𝘥 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘮𝘺 𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨-𝘥𝘦𝘢𝘥 𝘭𝘪𝘣𝘪𝘥𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘐 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘪𝘢𝘵𝘦.” A complication Elise doesn’t want but . . . a possible future she never expected.
This is a very slow burn, romantic suspense story about second chances after years of being with the WRONG partner. It’s about life changing decisions. Choices. Found family dynamics. Good versus evil and that grey area in-between. And it gives us a taste of small town family life that provides a certain peace among the chaos.
“𝘐𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘳𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘢𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘋𝘰𝘯𝘯𝘢 𝘉𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘰𝘯 𝘩𝘢𝘥 𝘣𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘢 𝘴𝘢𝘷𝘪𝘰𝘳 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘺, 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘣𝘪𝘨𝘨𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘣𝘰𝘥𝘺.”
There’s a great deal of turmoil in this book and Gage and Elise have to navigate their emotions thru it all. As we barrel on toward the conclusion (which is fraught with drama) Elise finally discovers her truth (Gage is worth every moment of her angst) and just as the danger may be subsiding. . . buckle up.
No actual cliffhanger here as Erin does give us a HEA , BUT she leaves us with certain questions unanswered and relationships that have been turned upside down. Most importantly, she teases us with the next Colson Creek book that quite frankly has me salivating!
September 19, 2026
Rating: Loved it / Slightly Obsessed
👩❤️👨 Second Chance Romance
🔥 Slowest of Slow Burns
😍 He Falls First & Harder
👶 Single Guardian
🏡 Small Town
💔 Angst & Longing
🛡️ Protective Found Family
⚖️ Midlife Romance
🚨 Romantic Suspense
👶 Cute Baby Snuggles
🧸 Found Family
Gage may be a Pitbull in Golden Retriever clothing, and I loved him. He’s been crushing on Elise since high school, and this man stole my heart. He’s newly single and focused on winning custody of his grandson, Nico. Watching him care for that baby and fight for him warmed my heart. That little boy will want for nothing with Gage and the Bensons around him.
I LOVE that the Benson family continues to expand their found family. Watching Donna and the Bensons treat their found family like blood family is one of my favorite parts of this series.
Elise is leaving her dangerous husband and dealing with a contentious divorce, with plans to enter a convent once it’s finalized. Meanwhile, she’s helping care for Nico and trying VERY hard to keep Gage in the friend zone.
This was the slowest of slow burns, and I loved it SO much. Every scene between Gage and Elise was dripping with angst, longing, tension, and quiet little gestures that had me screaming internally. We love a man who yearns and pines, and Gage spends this entire book YEARNING and PINING. I was losing my mind.
And when that string finally snapped? Those two are HOT. Hot!! HOT!!!
Then Erin did what Erin does and threw a twisty, turvy ending at me that I absolutely did NOT see coming. I literally jumped into her DMs at 2am and dropped every gif I was feeling because…OUCH. It did not go down the way I expected, and it HURT.
This might be my first Erin cliffy, and now I am antsy for the next book. I need Elise’s ex to get what he deserves, and I NEED to see the fallout from that ending.
Sweet, emotional, suspenseful, funny, and packed with found family, this was another fantastic addition to Colson Creek. I am still fully invested in this family.
Thank you, @erinfitzgeraldwrites for the ARC!
👩❤️👨 Second Chance Romance
🔥 Slowest of Slow Burns
😍 He Falls First & Harder
👶 Single Guardian
🏡 Small Town
💔 Angst & Longing
🛡️ Protective Found Family
⚖️ Midlife Romance
🚨 Romantic Suspense
👶 Cute Baby Snuggles
🧸 Found Family
Gage may be a Pitbull in Golden Retriever clothing, and I loved him. He’s been crushing on Elise since high school, and this man stole my heart. He’s newly single and focused on winning custody of his grandson, Nico. Watching him care for that baby and fight for him warmed my heart. That little boy will want for nothing with Gage and the Bensons around him.
I LOVE that the Benson family continues to expand their found family. Watching Donna and the Bensons treat their found family like blood family is one of my favorite parts of this series.
Elise is leaving her dangerous husband and dealing with a contentious divorce, with plans to enter a convent once it’s finalized. Meanwhile, she’s helping care for Nico and trying VERY hard to keep Gage in the friend zone.
This was the slowest of slow burns, and I loved it SO much. Every scene between Gage and Elise was dripping with angst, longing, tension, and quiet little gestures that had me screaming internally. We love a man who yearns and pines, and Gage spends this entire book YEARNING and PINING. I was losing my mind.
And when that string finally snapped? Those two are HOT. Hot!! HOT!!!
Then Erin did what Erin does and threw a twisty, turvy ending at me that I absolutely did NOT see coming. I literally jumped into her DMs at 2am and dropped every gif I was feeling because…OUCH. It did not go down the way I expected, and it HURT.
This might be my first Erin cliffy, and now I am antsy for the next book. I need Elise’s ex to get what he deserves, and I NEED to see the fallout from that ending.
Sweet, emotional, suspenseful, funny, and packed with found family, this was another fantastic addition to Colson Creek. I am still fully invested in this family.
Thank you, @erinfitzgeraldwrites for the ARC!
Review of advance copy
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐄𝐝𝐠𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐌𝐞𝐫𝐜𝐲 is the 6th book in the Colson Creek series by Erin FitzGerald, featuring a suspenseful midlife second chance romance for Gage and Elise. Talk about a plot twist palooza! This one starts with Gage’s custody battle for his infant grandson, Elise’s contentious divorce from her nefarious husband, and the apparent danger that follows her home to Colson Creek. She agrees to be a nanny for Nico, but with very clear personal boundaries for Gage, despite their obvious connection and chemistry. Ooh boy, this couple takes slow burn to another level. I’m not even Catholic, and I felt like I needed Elise’s rosary beads to cope with the frustration!😅 It was okay, though, because there were so many layers of emotion, drama, and activity going on in this story that I didn’t get stuck on that too much. I knew there would be surprises in the storyline, as there always are with this author, but a couple scenes in this book took my breath and had me tearing up from the shock. There’s also just something special about this fictional town and the bond between the characters. The way people come together, even from outside, to help when trouble comes is so inspiring and such a thrill to read. Let me be honest, I was extra excited to see more of Lancaster, even if just in small doses.😉 And, now we have a new mysterious man named Malachi that quickly had my radar pinging, and I cannot wait for more of him! I am completely emotionally drained right now, but I loved every second of it! So, if you love more mature main characters, with some high octane and high emotion romantic suspense, with small town charm and cute baby snuggles, don’t miss this roller coaster ride!
I received an ARC for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I received an ARC for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
September 21, 2026
I have loved this series and looked forward to reading this one. This story is around Gage and Elise -both wonderful characters who are going through significant changes in their lives. Gage is trying to raise his grandchild whilst trying to stop his vengeful ex wife from taking the baby away. Elise is trying to divorce her cheating ex husband whose mafia links make him a slippery dangerous character and he is fighting this . I love the slow burn of this - I loved the friendship that Gage and Elise develops and how she helps with looking after the baby. This story is so immersive - the sweet relationship building but the danger of Elise’s ex and the threat that brings. Elise also considering joining a convent and you have a multi layered story and it’s such a page turner. Funny , banter, full of love yet suspenseful and exciting at times.
No spoilers but there is a huge twist at the end which I didn’t see coming. Although there is a HEA for the main characters, the story will continue focusing on other family characters. I can’t wait for more of this wonderful family and all the characters.
Fabulous story - could be read standalone
No spoilers but there is a huge twist at the end which I didn’t see coming. Although there is a HEA for the main characters, the story will continue focusing on other family characters. I can’t wait for more of this wonderful family and all the characters.
Fabulous story - could be read standalone
September 19, 2026
A huge thank you to @erinfitzgeraldwrites for sending me this wonderful #gifted e-book!
I have adored the Colson Creek series since its debut in 2025, and this sixth book can be enjoyed as a standalone.
Erin’s stories always weave mystery and suspense into romantic tales, and her characters are beautifully flawed. Gage and Elise’s slow-burning romance intensifies when Elise’s life is threatened. Gage steps into the protector role, watching over her with unwavering resolve. I absolutely loved that Gage was also fighting for custody of his adorable grandson, Nico who stole the hearts of everyone who held him. Elise’s sister, Trish, was so direct and supportive, adding depth to the story.
The Colson brothers and their parents make heartfelt appearances, banding together to shield Elise. The ending provided a satisfying closure for Gage and Elise’s journey. I still have questions about who was behind the threats to Elise and her sisters’ tragic situation. I can't wait for the next book, coming in April 2027!
I have adored the Colson Creek series since its debut in 2025, and this sixth book can be enjoyed as a standalone.
Erin’s stories always weave mystery and suspense into romantic tales, and her characters are beautifully flawed. Gage and Elise’s slow-burning romance intensifies when Elise’s life is threatened. Gage steps into the protector role, watching over her with unwavering resolve. I absolutely loved that Gage was also fighting for custody of his adorable grandson, Nico who stole the hearts of everyone who held him. Elise’s sister, Trish, was so direct and supportive, adding depth to the story.
The Colson brothers and their parents make heartfelt appearances, banding together to shield Elise. The ending provided a satisfying closure for Gage and Elise’s journey. I still have questions about who was behind the threats to Elise and her sisters’ tragic situation. I can't wait for the next book, coming in April 2027!
September 29, 2026
An incredible story from Erin. She always brings out all the emotions in her books.
I’m a firm believer that we are put in the right place at the right time for a reason…that’s what happens to Gabe and Elise. They don’t realize how much they need one another and how good they are together….until they give it a chance.
Gabe is a patient, kind and wonderful man. He is dealing with a lot in his life but always manages to help and take care of others…he’s very selfless. He is a positive light for Elise who is also dealing with a lot.
Elise is running from her past, trying to right her wrongs and is on a journey of faith. She is determined to stay committed to the next step in her life…but then she reconnects with Gabe. She has an internal battles with herself that she can’t shake…but with Gabe’s help and love…she finally realizes what her future is supposed to look like.
This slow burn, suspense filled love story will give you all the feels and you won’t want to stop reading. I just love this family.
I’m a firm believer that we are put in the right place at the right time for a reason…that’s what happens to Gabe and Elise. They don’t realize how much they need one another and how good they are together….until they give it a chance.
Gabe is a patient, kind and wonderful man. He is dealing with a lot in his life but always manages to help and take care of others…he’s very selfless. He is a positive light for Elise who is also dealing with a lot.
Elise is running from her past, trying to right her wrongs and is on a journey of faith. She is determined to stay committed to the next step in her life…but then she reconnects with Gabe. She has an internal battles with herself that she can’t shake…but with Gabe’s help and love…she finally realizes what her future is supposed to look like.
This slow burn, suspense filled love story will give you all the feels and you won’t want to stop reading. I just love this family.
September 19, 2026
Small Town/Romantic Suspense/Second Chances
What did I just read! This book will keep you on the edge of your seat. Wait til you see what happens! That twist was something I didn’t see coming.
It seems Gage has had a thing for Elise for quite some time. Her sister is married to his brother. Gage is raising his grandson and trying to keep custody of him. His ex-wife isn’t making it easy though. Wait til you see what Elise has to do with helping Gage out. Elise in Colson Creek trying to get away from her crazy ex. Not only is she being watched, but something more sinister is going on. What could that be? Let’s put it this way, Gage offers her a nanny job, she has to have bodyguards and she’s run off the road.
In the end, it seems Gage and Elise start to really build feelings for each other. Is this truly what Elise wants or will she join the convent? Yup you read that right. Wait til you see what this amazing book has in store for you. You won’t want put it down!
What did I just read! This book will keep you on the edge of your seat. Wait til you see what happens! That twist was something I didn’t see coming.
It seems Gage has had a thing for Elise for quite some time. Her sister is married to his brother. Gage is raising his grandson and trying to keep custody of him. His ex-wife isn’t making it easy though. Wait til you see what Elise has to do with helping Gage out. Elise in Colson Creek trying to get away from her crazy ex. Not only is she being watched, but something more sinister is going on. What could that be? Let’s put it this way, Gage offers her a nanny job, she has to have bodyguards and she’s run off the road.
In the end, it seems Gage and Elise start to really build feelings for each other. Is this truly what Elise wants or will she join the convent? Yup you read that right. Wait til you see what this amazing book has in store for you. You won’t want put it down!
September 20, 2026
The Edge of Mercy is the sixth romance in the Colson Creek series. Elise has finally gathered the courage to leave her powerful husband and it finds her in Colson Creek. Gage is in the process of relocating to Colson Creek, as well, as he raises his infant grandson. Gage is in need of a nanny and Elise is the perfect fit. Together they might just be able to help each other settle into their new lives and if sparks fly in the process, all the better.
I have enjoyed this series since the beginning and was just as pleased with this romance as the others. Gave and Elise fit together well and I liked their relationship. The drama and intrigue that came with Elise’s divorce made for a good storyline and it pulled me into this story’s this was a slow burn romance and well done. I was pulled into this book from the beginning and didn’t see the twists at the end coming. This was a fun, twisty romance read with just enough suspense to keep me enthralled until the very end.
I have enjoyed this series since the beginning and was just as pleased with this romance as the others. Gave and Elise fit together well and I liked their relationship. The drama and intrigue that came with Elise’s divorce made for a good storyline and it pulled me into this story’s this was a slow burn romance and well done. I was pulled into this book from the beginning and didn’t see the twists at the end coming. This was a fun, twisty romance read with just enough suspense to keep me enthralled until the very end.
September 30, 2026
Have I said I really like romantic suspense's? Erin's book always hit their mark with a good story and enough suspense to keep us on our toes and in this one it had me guessing and wondering for a long time.
In this one we had a painfully slow burn that had me twitching and rooting for Gage. He was such a perfect gentleman and sweetheart. I loved his character, his personality and way of being. I loved how patient he was, how loyal and how understanding and how much love he had to give. Elise was a strong woman with a bad past that put her in danger and had her questioning a lot of decisions and giving up on many desires and she had for herself. We see her struggling, both about her safety and also about her true feelings and how to let go of both her past and her fears.
It had that protective edge with all the protective team that also became friends and it had the ending twist that I did not see coming but made the perfect escape and entrance for the next story.
In this one we had a painfully slow burn that had me twitching and rooting for Gage. He was such a perfect gentleman and sweetheart. I loved his character, his personality and way of being. I loved how patient he was, how loyal and how understanding and how much love he had to give. Elise was a strong woman with a bad past that put her in danger and had her questioning a lot of decisions and giving up on many desires and she had for herself. We see her struggling, both about her safety and also about her true feelings and how to let go of both her past and her fears.
It had that protective edge with all the protective team that also became friends and it had the ending twist that I did not see coming but made the perfect escape and entrance for the next story.
September 20, 2026
I loved this! It's Gage & Elise's story & it was a great one! They've known each other a long time & he's always had feelings for her; but she left town a long time ago. When she comes back, she's trying to get a divorce & she learns a lot of things about her soon to be ex; he has dangerous acquaintances. Gage's feelings come back full force when he sees her again. But both have changed a lot & he's going through his own issues. The more that comes out about her ex the more of a dangerous situation she's in & inadvertently Gage & his newborn grandson. Everyone rallies around them all & a lot happens here. There are twists that I did not see coming & I loved the more mature characters. I loved the story & catching up with everyone. The spice was fantastic & I loved the story! Highly recommend this book & author!
September 17, 2026
The Edge Of Mercy by Erin Fitzgerald
There was so many emotions heart-pounding suspense and danger. All the yearning from Gage for Elise. The adorable baby cuddles and love for Nico. I love a single dad (he is a dad but the child is his grandson who he is fighting for custody of). Expect slowww burn in this one but know that the danger, trying to slow what is going on will have you focused and invested.
These two get a happy ending but the epilogue and the last few chapters open up a lot of questions and will lead us into the next book.
FMC in danger • Single dad • Found family • Life changing decisions • Midlife (50’s) second chance • All the yearning • Romantic Suspense • Friends to Lovers • Slowwww Burn • MMC Glasses
There was so many emotions heart-pounding suspense and danger. All the yearning from Gage for Elise. The adorable baby cuddles and love for Nico. I love a single dad (he is a dad but the child is his grandson who he is fighting for custody of). Expect slowww burn in this one but know that the danger, trying to slow what is going on will have you focused and invested.
These two get a happy ending but the epilogue and the last few chapters open up a lot of questions and will lead us into the next book.
FMC in danger • Single dad • Found family • Life changing decisions • Midlife (50’s) second chance • All the yearning • Romantic Suspense • Friends to Lovers • Slowwww Burn • MMC Glasses
September 19, 2026
Erin has done it again with another great story set in Colson Creek, the Benson family and those associated with them. This latest instalment focuses on Gage and Elise. Elise is going through a very public divorce and her very powerful husband is not making life easy for her. She returns to Colson Creek not knowing if she will ever be free. Gage is relocating his law practice, bringing up his grandson and finding himself totally exhausted, running on auto pilot. Circumstances bring the two together and as their friendship develops Gage becomes determined to do all he can to make life easier for Elise. What neither of them had counted on was the attraction between them but there are lines that can’t be blurred.
It is great how Erin weaves characters new and old through her books. It’s also really easy to work out how everyone is related and where they fit into the dynamics. The wonderful loyalty the main characters all have for each and how the Benson family embraces their extended family really shows throughout this.
Sexual tension, twist and turns, feisty strong women, gorgeous mysterious men who put their lives on the line and plenty of drama make this a great read. It kept me totally engaged and I’m so looking forward to Erin’s next book.
It is great how Erin weaves characters new and old through her books. It’s also really easy to work out how everyone is related and where they fit into the dynamics. The wonderful loyalty the main characters all have for each and how the Benson family embraces their extended family really shows throughout this.
Sexual tension, twist and turns, feisty strong women, gorgeous mysterious men who put their lives on the line and plenty of drama make this a great read. It kept me totally engaged and I’m so looking forward to Erin’s next book.
September 21, 2026
The Edge Of Mercy is the 6th book in the Colson Creek series. It's always a joy to return to Colson Creek. Once again Erin has created a suspenseful slow burn romance that I didn't want to put down. The story follows the MCs Elise and Gage. Elise is dealing with a lot of baggage from her ex and had to return home under non-ideal circumstances. Gage offers her a place to stay and soon the sparks between them kick into full force. This story was heartfelt, angsty, and emotionally compelling. If your looking for your next small town adventure, head on over to Colson Creek.
✨Themes & Tropes:✨
🩵Romantic Suspense
🤎Small Town
💛Second Chance
🩵Returning Home
🤎Found Family
💛Slow Burn
🤎Divorce
Overall, loved this read. ♥️
✨Themes & Tropes:✨
🩵Romantic Suspense
🤎Small Town
💛Second Chance
🩵Returning Home
🤎Found Family
💛Slow Burn
🤎Divorce
Overall, loved this read. ♥️
September 22, 2026
I have been enjoying this series so very much. This Author is one of my personal favorites and I love her writing and the way she makes you feel like you are a character in the story. There’s not a single book by the Author that I have not enjoyed. This story definitely held my attention and interest from the very first page to the very last page. I truly enjoy a small town romance read. I’m again truly enjoying this series with characters. I enjoyed Gage and Elise’s story. Two characters that I really enjoyed reading about. What a great read. I highly recommend reading all the books in the series and you can definitely read as a standalone, but you will be missing out. I look forward to the next book in the series.
September 27, 2026
Gage has moved back to Colson Creek and is raising his infant grandson Nico and is busy trying to open a law firm while still working remotely. While having to fight his ex for custody of Nico. Elise has come back to Colson Creek because she has left her very influential husband and wants a divorce. Gage has had a crush on Elise since high school, and now that he’s seen her he knows it hasn’t gone away. And it continues to grow when he sees how good Elise is with Nico. But she’s determined to keep Gage in the friend zone because she wants to keep them safe and away from her ex. There definitely was a twist that I didn’t see coming. This can be read as a standalone. But there are some things that have been left unanswered. I’m looking forward to the next book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
5+⭐️
Ooooooo Emmmmm Geeeee…my heart has been on warp speed the entire reading of this most amazing romance between Elise and Gage!!
The want, the need, the fear, the strength…literally will keep you on edge with the who , the what and the why that seems to be chasing Elise. And Gage is there for how ever and whenever she needs.
Grab this nail biter and get ready for a heart whirling journey of abuse, terror, fear, murder, mayhem, heartbreak but also a growing love coming out of the chaos!
Ooooooo Emmmmm Geeeee…my heart has been on warp speed the entire reading of this most amazing romance between Elise and Gage!!
The want, the need, the fear, the strength…literally will keep you on edge with the who , the what and the why that seems to be chasing Elise. And Gage is there for how ever and whenever she needs.
Grab this nail biter and get ready for a heart whirling journey of abuse, terror, fear, murder, mayhem, heartbreak but also a growing love coming out of the chaos!
Review of advance copy
Gage is juggling buisness relocation, and his young grandson Nico, when Elise comes back into town, seeking a sanctuary from her very public and volatile divorce. Gage offers her a job as a nanny to Nico but she sets some firm boundaries, ones Gage would like to cross, but this small towns got more secret to unravel. Where will it leave these two? Well written high emotions, desires, second chances, later in life love, and some more Lancaster!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Another win for Colson Creek. The beginning of this story is all about the yearning before the story changes to fear. Underneath it all is a strong current of love coming from not only Gage but the whole Benson clan. Having read all the other books in this series, I can tell you that once the Benson’s adopt you then you are always family.
I was given an ARC by the author. All opinions are my own.
I was given an ARC by the author. All opinions are my own.
September 16, 2026
Returning to Colson Creek was everything I wanted and more!! Two people that had already had me intrigued by their stories in previous book but the connections just kept coming drawing them together more and more. Gage will steal your heart and Nico definitely stole mine. I also absolutely loved Elise and found her just precious but I loved when she got a little witty with it. I am sooo excited for the next book because I just know it’s going to fill a few more answers left untold in this one!!
September 22, 2026
I absolutely love the way Erin Fitzgerald writes. There is a fantastic balance of emotions in this book. The laughs will have you doubled over and the angst will have tears streaming down your cheeks and I dare you to figure out the answer to the crime. There are so many twists it will make your head spin. Gage and Elise had my heart from the very beginning and the story has me ACHING for the next ini the series. HOLY COW this book was AWESOME!
September 26, 2026
🩵The Edge Of Mercy🩵
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review:
I’ve been patiently waiting for this book and it did not disappoint.
It felt so good to be back in Colson Creek again!
I was wanting the best for Elise and Gage from the very beginning! They’ve both been through so much so it was really lovely to see them get their happily ever after.
I felt all the emotions reading this book - from laughing to crying and everything in between!
The suspense and the twists had me on the edge of my seat the entire time I was reading.
Erin is such a fantastic author - I would read anything she writes. I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book! 🩵
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review:
I’ve been patiently waiting for this book and it did not disappoint.
It felt so good to be back in Colson Creek again!
I was wanting the best for Elise and Gage from the very beginning! They’ve both been through so much so it was really lovely to see them get their happily ever after.
I felt all the emotions reading this book - from laughing to crying and everything in between!
The suspense and the twists had me on the edge of my seat the entire time I was reading.
Erin is such a fantastic author - I would read anything she writes. I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book! 🩵
September 25, 2026
Erin wrote another suspenseful story full of twists and turns.
Gage is wrapped up in raising his grandson and battling his ex-wife for the custody of him. All this time Elise, his teenage crush, is trying to get a divorce from her powerful husband.
Their story is full of surprises and their chemistry is definitely there. I had a great time reading it and finding out how they get their happy ending. Definitely recommend if you like suspense romance novels.
Gage is wrapped up in raising his grandson and battling his ex-wife for the custody of him. All this time Elise, his teenage crush, is trying to get a divorce from her powerful husband.
Their story is full of surprises and their chemistry is definitely there. I had a great time reading it and finding out how they get their happy ending. Definitely recommend if you like suspense romance novels.
October 13, 2026
Erin Fitzgerald's books never disappoint me! I know what I'm getting every time which is refreshing and comforting: small town, mystery, forced proximity, and someone falling first! I was looking forward to this one as soon as I learned Elise wanted to be a nun. I would have liked to see more of that! I was expecting some naughty nun action, haha! On a serious note...the heartbreaking event took me by surprise! I just want to hug Trish and never let go! Can't wait for her story!
September 22, 2026
I don’t know how she does it, but Erin always brings all the suspense and drama. She is always keeping you on the edge of your seat, creating a real connection with the characters and still making you fall in love.
Gage and Elise….phew what a ride.
Two souls and two different paths… each facing every imaginable obstacle that would make them not believe in fate, love or second chances.
One who has gotten a second chance at being a father in an unconventional way. And maybe the possibility of having love in his life in more ways than one.
The other believing a happy ending isn’t in the cards and she is destined for a life of solitude. She’s not deserving of a family who loves her…or so she thinks.
Can life give them a do over in more ways than one?
Or will the people in their pasts ,who want nothing but their downfall and demise. Stop at nothing to keep them from finding happiness…
Take a chance on Gage and Elsie…they won’t disappoint and they will lead you to some amazing characters.
Gage and Elise….phew what a ride.
Two souls and two different paths… each facing every imaginable obstacle that would make them not believe in fate, love or second chances.
One who has gotten a second chance at being a father in an unconventional way. And maybe the possibility of having love in his life in more ways than one.
The other believing a happy ending isn’t in the cards and she is destined for a life of solitude. She’s not deserving of a family who loves her…or so she thinks.
Can life give them a do over in more ways than one?
Or will the people in their pasts ,who want nothing but their downfall and demise. Stop at nothing to keep them from finding happiness…
Take a chance on Gage and Elsie…they won’t disappoint and they will lead you to some amazing characters.
September 26, 2026
The Edge of Mercy by Erin FitzGerald is the sixth book in the Colson Creek Series. Elise and Gage’s story felt like coming home. I love Colson Creek and these two fit perfectly. I love how Erin mixes the mystery with romance but I also love that her main characters are older and more mature.
This book honestly hooked me from the start and I couldn’t put it down. Can’t wait for more!
This book honestly hooked me from the start and I couldn’t put it down. Can’t wait for more!
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