Harley Merlin and the Cult of Eris

Harley Merlin #6

by Bella Forrest

Consume the Spirit of Thine Greatest Enemy, in the Land of Erebus, on All Hallows’ Eve…

Harley has a game plan to stop the third infiltrate the Cult of Eris and steal back her mother’s soul. But her only way in is through her devious half-brother Finch—the same guy who was Katherine’s most devoted bootlicker not too long ago.

Joining a cult counts as sibling bonding time, right?

Left with no choice but to break Finch out of prison, Harley must play the part of a loyal cultist. Within Katherine’s inner circle, deadly initiation trials and watchful enemies make every moment a battle for survival.

Harley hasn’t forgotten that Finch once belonged to the cult himself, and she wonders if she’ll end up with a valuable new ally… or a knife in the back.

Buy now!

*Beware of spoilers in the reviews below that are without spoiler alerts.*

Genres: Fantasy, Young Adult, Audiobook, Urban Fantasy, Magic, Paranormal, Fiction

402 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 23, 2019

About the author

UPDATE MARCH 11, 2024:

BELLA IS BACK!

*** New, updated online store at https://BellaForrest.com

*** New books coming soon

*** Possible Film/TV series coming soon

*** Stay up to date by joining our e-mail list at https://BellaForrest.com/join

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Bella Forrest is a lover of fantasy, romance, action, and mystery infused stories with twists you don’t see coming. She has sold over fifteen million books since her first novel was published in 2012.

Check out her website for a full list of her books: https://BellaForrest.com

Official Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/BellaForrest...

Here's a list of some of Bella's books:

DARKLIGHT

Darklight (Book 1)
Darkthirst (Book 2)
Darkworld (Book 3)
Darkblood (Book 4)
Darktide (Book 5)
Darkbirth (Book 6)
Darkfall (Book 7)
Darkwilds (Book 8)
Darkhunt (Book 9)

A LOVE THAT ENDURES (Trilogy)
A Love that Endures 1
A Love that Endures 2
A Love that Endures 3

HARLEY MERLIN AND THE SECRET COVEN

Harley Merlin and the Secret Coven (Book 1)
Harley Merlin and the Mystery Twins (Book 2)
Harley Merlin and the Stolen Magicals (Book 3)
Harley Merlin and the First Ritual (Book 4)
Harley Merlin and the Broken Spell (Book 5)
Harley Merlin and the Cult of Eris (Book 6)
Harley Merlin and the Detector Fix (Book 7)
Harley Merlin and the Challenge of Chaos (Book 8)
Harley Merlin and the Mortal Pact (Book 9)
Finch Merlin and the Fount of Youth (Book 10)
Finch Merlin and the Lost Map (Book 11)
Finch Merlin and the Djinn's Curse (Book 12)
Finch Merlin and the Locked Gateway (Book 13)
Finch Merlin and the Forgotten Kingdom (Book 14)
Finch Merlin and the Everlasting Vow (Book 15)
Finch Merlin and the Blood Tie (Book 16)
Finch Merlin and the Legend of the Luminary
Persie Merlin and Leviathan's Gift (Book 18)
Persie Merlin and the Door to Nowhere (Book 19)
Persie Merlin and the Witch Hunters (Book 20)
Persie Merlin and the Dying Song (Book 21)

THE CHILD THIEF

The Child Thief (Book 1)
Deep Shadows (Book 2)
Thin Lines (Book 3)
Little Lies (Book 4)
Ghost Towns (Book 5)
Zero Hour (Book 6)

HOTBLOODS

Hotbloods (Book 1)
Hotbloods (Book 2): Coldbloods
Hotbloods (Book 3): Renegades
Hotbloods (Book 4): Venturers
Hotbloods (Book 5): Traitors
Hotbloods (Book 6): Allies
Hotbloods (Book 7): Invaders
Hotbloods (Book 8): Stargazers

THE GENDER GAME

The Gender Game (Book 1)
The Gender Secret (Book 2)
The Gender Lie (Book 3)
The Gender War (Book 4)
The Gender Fall (Book 5)
The Gender Plan (Book 6)
The Gender End (Book 7)

THE GIRL WHO DARED TO THINK

The Girl Who Dared to Think (Book 1)
The Girl Who Dared to Stand (Book 2)
The Girl Who Dared to Descend (Book 3)
The Girl Who Dared to Rise (Book 4)
The Girl Who Dared to Lead (Book 5)
The Girl Who Dared to Endure (Book 6
The Girl Who Dared to Fight (Book 7)

A SHADE OF VAMPIRE

Season 1: Derek & Sofia’s story

Books 1 to 7

Season 2: Rose & Caleb’s story

Books 8 to 16

Season 3: The Shade continues with a new hero...

Books 17 to 24

Season 4: A Clan of Novaks

Books 25 to 32

Season 5: A Dawn of Guardians

Books 33 to 41

Season 6: A Gift of Three

Books 42 to 50

Season 7: A Call of Vampires

Books 51 to 59

Season 8: A Voyage of Founders

Books 60 to 68

Season 9: A Birth of Fire

Books 69 to 77

Season 10: An Origin of Vampires
An Origin of Vampires (Book 78)
A Game of Death (Book 79)
A Veil of Dark (Book 80)
A Bringer of Night (Book 81)
A Circle of Nine (Book 82)
A Bender of Spirit (Book 83)
A Memory of Time (Book 84)
A Shard of Soul (Book 85)
A Break of Seals (Book 86)

Season 11: A Shade of Mystery
A Shade of Mystery (Book 87)
An Isle of Mirrors (Book 88)
A Sanctuary of Foes (Book 89)
A Ruler of Clones (Book 90)
A Gate of Light (Book 91)
A Dawn of Worlds (Book 92) ➜ Coming soon!

Reviews

[Crystie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I loved this series at first, but it is turning into something I cannot enjoy. I really just can't find entertainment value in misery. Umbridge is one of my least favorite characters ever simply because of how miserable she made Harry and everyone else. This series now has an Umbridge named Levi.

Things were already pretty miserable for Harley and company. Katherine kept squeaking out victories. Harley just couldn't seem to get a break. Things kept getting worse and worse. Then Levi came in and made everything craptastic.

The constant misery with no actual victorious moments for Harley just don't entertain me. I found myself taking longer and longer breaks from the book just to read other stuff. I came close to not even finishing it. Now that I've reached the end, things are set up in a way that I already expect the next book to be EVEN more craptastic.

With no victories to take the edge off the misery, I just don't see why I would want to read the next book. Additionally, I waited far too long for Harley and Wade to finally get together only for it to barely matter. They occasionally hug or think about each other but there are no sweet scenes between them. At least that would be something, but nope.

I just feel like they did more in the first book than they have since. They went to get dinner, they talked, they hunted purge beasts, they interviewed shopkeepers. Now they do nothing. Their relationship might as well not be a plot point.

I just need something happy in this series to make it worth pursuing and have not found it in the past few books. Then, when I was reading just to see Wade finally get with Harley, it was a huge letdown and totally anticlimactic.

HOWEVER, this book had tons of action and a strong plot. It isn't for me and made me bitter, but other readers may not need a dose of hope to enjoy a book. Those readers will most likely love this book since the book itself is not badly written.

[♦♣ queen of faerie ♠♥ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Really good Harley Merlin book!

Sometimes, the second PoV in Harley Merlin can be quite boring. However, this different PoV from Finch was the most enjoyable by far.

Finch Merlin - funny, sarcastic, and dangerous. I want to read the series about him now.

Harley and Wade's relationship is finally in full swing (about time! I mean - come on - book 6???)

[Sami · Rating 2 out of 5]

I honestly wanted to like these books. I thought they had a good start and good potential but by book 3 it became apparent that the ending of every book was a loss. Then it became apparent that the losses were exactly the same in each book with each ritual. Then I thought about just sticking it through to finish the story but then I realized there were 9 books and I still had 4 to go. I tried book six but it took me a full week to read it and it usually takes me no more than 24 hours to get through a novel size book. And it was just the same of everything that made the previous few books hard to read so at this point I give up and wont be finishing the series.

[Michelle's Paranormal Vault of Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it!

Wasn't surprised when I got book in this book just like the previous ones. Keeps you on the edge of your seat for sure. I highly recommend this series!

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Im definitely starting to slow down on this series. I just feel like it maybe didn't need to be this long? I mean it is fun, but they are all basically the same at this point and it is getting a bit...



Honestly though it was still good. Getting Finch's POV was fun. He is one the more exciting figures. But I just wish that something new would happen. Instead of the same thing. We will beat the person before the next ritual, then end with them getting there and messing up somehow. I want a new villain. I'm over this whole Katherine thing. IDK. Still fun, but I can see myself getting into a slump if this continues. It just needs something new in the plot to revitalize it.

[The Book Club · Rating 5 out of 5]

It gets better and better..

Oh my world!! I’m in love with the Harley Merlin series and I think this book is my favourite so far! Loved to see more of Finch as well and can’t wait to read the next one!

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

As always this is another amazing work by Bella Forrest! The classic characteristics of action, suspense, and edge-of-your-seat excitement that we all know and love. Another thing that really stood out to me was the back and forth dialog. I was dying! That's my kind of sense of humor! Just another reason to fall in love with our favorite author. You're in for some real surprises. Get your popcorn ready!

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yet again, Bella writes another great installment in the Harley Merlin series. The book is suspenseful as it builds on the story. As the action is unfolding so is the character development and interactions and relationships. I think this is one of my favorite aspects of this series, is watching each character's self get revealed more and more. You won't be disappointed with this book!

[Jo · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love this series, its a cross between Harry Potter and The mortal Instruments and is absolutely fabulous.
I only have one complaint and that is it needs to be picked up by a major publisher to I can sell it to my customers at the bookstore where I work.

[Jennifer greenwood · Rating 5 out of 5]

Never dissapointed !! Hooked !

I loved this story . This is U think the best book in the series . I thought it would come to an end . Im so glad it didnt and we still have more story librd up . I love how Harley sucjsveveryonw to her side. Her and her brother truly reunited is great . I wasnt 100% sure what side hed take but am so glad ge didn't disappoint me . Finally the 2 of them gave sone real familt . Un thrillled for them and they better remain lotal ib whats lefr to still unfold .Could Levi be more if an idiot he is . Diesnt he see what's happening . I have a feeling hes being controlled by the enemy but time will tell . The traitors never stay hidden long. April is such a long time 2 wait when your thus ubto a story . I literrally read it in 1 sitting couldnt put it down . Cant wait untill April .

[Alex Celine · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was worth reading but wasn't my favorite of the series. Loved some of the earlier ones more than this one but will keep reading the series for now. There were some aspects that felt predictable, mainly near the end. The addition of another "Rag Team" member at the end felt placed for a specific reason. I did really love seeing the sibling relationship develop between Finch and Harley. There were some places when it was Finch's point of view that felt forced but I loved getting to see their relationship finally develop into family for each other. I also really loved the ending with Finch, Harley, and Jacob (essentially making it a family matter with her and her two brothers).

[Kasandra Kurutz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Of this series so far, this is undeniably the best installment. Just the right mix of everything! I read this one faster than the ones before. The relationship between Harley and Finch is great from all aspects, nice to see the Smith's again and cannot wait to see what happens next with them. I really hope they are left to remember and Jacob can be brought back into their family, he deserves it. The bestiary, Katherine (Eris), I really don't know what to say about this without spoilers... This just needs to be read, you will not be disappointed!

[Angela Slate Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this series, it gets better with every book. I am so happy to see Wade and Harley finally in a relationship. Harley is getting better with her abilities it seems and can I just say I am not a fan of Levi.

[Kelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's a scary time for the Magical's and their secret worlds. Also, another great try at Katherine and the Cult. Finch is growing on me and the sibling banter is fun. I really enjoyed listen to this book!

[Keira Cook · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was really good. I really love this series. I want to finish the whole series.

[Sherry · Rating 4 out of 5]

FINALLY finished listening...since I only really listen on my commutes to and from work and I didn’t have a job for almost 3 mths, it’s no wonder it took so long. Feeling like the series could be a lot shorter since not much is happening in each book at this point. I can’t help myself, I need to know how it ends so I’ll keep going (after a brief listening break - to listen to something else first)

[Robin · Rating 3 out of 5]

Non-stop action would be an apt description of this book. Actually, it's getting a little too much but I'm still enjoying the books.

[Danna]

אני לא בחורה של ספרים למרחקים ארוכים. בעיניי, כחובבת רומנטיקה ברגע שהזוג כבר ביחד נעלם העניין, בעיקר ש 5 הספרים הקודמים משכו את העלילה המרכזית. בטוח הייתי צופה כסדרת טלויזיה או סרטים. בספר אני משקיעה יותר זמן וזה חייב להיות יותר מאפקטים.

[liv.for.writing · Rating 2 out of 5]

the books are getting kinda repetitive and my brain hurt reading this book🥲I love the beginning of the series but I don’t really get these books anymore. I’m hoping they get better. The only thing I really care about is Harley and Wade, but we barely got any of them

[Nancy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good YA series

[SB · Rating 3 out of 5]

I came to this series under the guise that it’s a new Harry Potter. I have to be very clear - it is no Harry Potter. One of the true magical aspects of HP is that despite things being dire, Harry learned and succeeded. This story - the protagonist has lost every single time through this book. Even when she won - she lost by betraying a supporter. At this point, I’m going to finish because 6 books down. But dang - there’s no redemption. There’s no positive at the end of the books.

[Debbie Tremel · Rating 3 out of 5]

Have to say, I'm going to take a break from Harley for a bit. When I found there were still three books to get to the end of the story it was a bit much. For the most part I've enjoyed the books, but by this one, I found myself reading the first line of paragraphs at times and skipping the rest because the dialogue and thoughts have become redundant. Obviously if I'm doing this, I'm not engrossed in the story. This was really a detriment to the pacing of the story. I will probably finish the series, but it could have been written in many fewer books. The formula is obvious now, with an added bonus book for some other random thing besides getting through the rituals. Too bad. It had a good start.

[Jessica Tierney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Almost always fed up this far into a series but Bella always keeps me wanting more. Unpredictable story lines for all characters. I can't wait to find out what happens next!

[Mallory · Rating 4 out of 5]

So much packed into this one...
I felt like it was years but only a couple of weeks in Harley's world.
Harley and Finch becoming closer is cool. I like that he's becoming a good guy.
Loved Harley getting time with her mom.
Still cannot stand Levi.... why do men in power inherently think they have the right to bully everyone i just really wanna turn Kadar loose on him.
I'm so ready for Harley to end Katherine. I know that can't happen yet but she just so darn annoying at this point. And the fact that no one else seems pisses even be making an effort is just ridiculous. And she hurt Tobe so that right there just pisses me off.
I know not one of my best reviews but I just finished it and I'm still feeling a tad emotional.

[Athena Harrelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bella, Bella, Bella. As usual you did not disappoint. I truly loved this book and they seem to just keep getting better. I did feel so sorry and sad at the end. What a cliff hanger, I almost threw my kindle. I cannot wait for the next book with the mix of emotions that stir in me while following along in Harleys life.

[Lynn · Rating 2 out of 5]

Wait for it

This series started out fun, but I feel like it's dragging way too far out and the main characters, Harley and Wade, are getting diluted. I had to get to the last few chapters to feel a connection. I don't usually put a book down and start a new one but I did on this book.

[Ashley Lusenhop · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was packed with action! I loved every minute of it besides not seeing Qade and Harley together more as a couple. Katherine is seriously the worst person ever she must be stopped! I look forward to next book hopefully the time comes!

[Becca Mee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m living for the dynamic between Harley and Finch in this book. This series is seriously underrated. I’m really enjoying it!

[Alex(Books-In-A-Storm) · Rating 3 out of 5]

https://books-in-a-storm.tumblr.com/p...

[books are love · Rating 4 out of 5]

So Harley is in the compound in this book and what we find out is that not everything is as it seems in the cult of Eris. We see betrayals to Katharine as well and not ones you would expect. We also get a better idea as to why all these people started to follow Katharine and drink her kool aid and why some are still drinking and others are wanting to defect. And defect not just because Katharine is a few fries short of a happy meal but because this cult is truly going way over the cuckoo’s nest in their thoughts and outcomes once Katharine is a god of Chaos.

Finch I think is my favorite in this book because we see him starting to really think for himself and see how much harm his mom has caused. He begins to realize what his actions cost so many and begins to change. A baby step in change but change. He sees that Harley isn’t who he thought and neither are her friends whom he thought were enemies because of his mom. Seeing him show concern for Harley when they are in the compound and watching them work together is great because we see a whole different aspect to him.

The initiation alone into the cult is dangerous and nuts but once in the way you are treated is deplorable. Watching Finch and Harley try to find out what is going to happen next and what is really going on in the cult is entertaining, dangerous and fascinating. It’s fascinating because you get to see what is happening on the other side and how some in that area are thinking. We get to see Finch and what he is thinking and more is understood about Katharine. We also get to see Harley with her mom even if it is for just a moment in time and learn more about Katharine and what makes her tick.

Only thing that frustrates me is it seems we get one step forward and two steps back again. They just get to where it looks like they will beat Katharine but last second they are thwarted.