What do you think?
Rate this book
Mercy Temple Chronicles #1
Acts of Mercy
An alternative cover edition for this ASIN can be found here.
Mages. Sirens. Demons. Dragons. Gryphons. A Federal Paranormal Unit. Attackers of magic. The Mercy Temple Chronicles will hook you!
Mercy Temple lives in a world where paranormals are a thing. Humans know of their existence, but the two species don’t interact. Or so it is thought. She works for a bounty hunter, doing any job he needs done. From killing someone, to finding someone, to bringing them in. She has a love/hate relationship with the bounty hunter. He knows her secret and that’s how he keeps her working for him. But still, he pays her well.
Rafael is a demon. He isn’t a good guy, but not a bad guy either. He wants to know Mercy’s secret, but he has one of his own. He works for the Federal Paranormal Unit. Undercover. And he is hunting the same person she is.
Warning: Unputdownable action-packed fantasy, with mages, sirens, demons, dragons, gryphons and a Federal Paranormal Unit
Mages. Sirens. Demons. Dragons. Gryphons. A Federal Paranormal Unit. Attackers of magic. The Mercy Temple Chronicles will hook you!
Mercy Temple lives in a world where paranormals are a thing. Humans know of their existence, but the two species don’t interact. Or so it is thought. She works for a bounty hunter, doing any job he needs done. From killing someone, to finding someone, to bringing them in. She has a love/hate relationship with the bounty hunter. He knows her secret and that’s how he keeps her working for him. But still, he pays her well.
Rafael is a demon. He isn’t a good guy, but not a bad guy either. He wants to know Mercy’s secret, but he has one of his own. He works for the Federal Paranormal Unit. Undercover. And he is hunting the same person she is.
Warning: Unputdownable action-packed fantasy, with mages, sirens, demons, dragons, gryphons and a Federal Paranormal Unit
222 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 6, 2018
796 people are currently reading
1044 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
January 23, 2019
Got this book free on Amazon. I'm glad I decided to read new books to me this month because I've come up with some really good reads. This one is definitely on top.
This book is about a bounty hunter named Mercy, she gets a bounty that is going to pay a high amount, well she comes across a demon named Raphael. And an interesting pairing comes to light.
What I love about this book, is that it's super easy to get into, and honestly, I did not want to put it down, two the heroine and main male didn't instantly get into the sack. They're building up into something, what it will become will be fun to read. But the best part is that they both have some kind of history that they tend to keep on the back burner, and I love how you find little details here and there.
I cannot wait to read the next in the series.
This book is about a bounty hunter named Mercy, she gets a bounty that is going to pay a high amount, well she comes across a demon named Raphael. And an interesting pairing comes to light.
What I love about this book, is that it's super easy to get into, and honestly, I did not want to put it down, two the heroine and main male didn't instantly get into the sack. They're building up into something, what it will become will be fun to read. But the best part is that they both have some kind of history that they tend to keep on the back burner, and I love how you find little details here and there.
I cannot wait to read the next in the series.
August 23, 2020
dnf 50%
Meh, boring and confusing wich POV was wich.
The characters felt bland and kind of blend into each other.
Meh, boring and confusing wich POV was wich.
The characters felt bland and kind of blend into each other.
August 8, 2025
Good beginning
This was a fast past action packed story. It was fun and I liked the characters. I'll be reading the next one.
This was a fast past action packed story. It was fun and I liked the characters. I'll be reading the next one.
September 14, 2020
bad. murky. lot of pieces glued together from other writers work. even name.
November 28, 2021
Audible version. Sadly I didn’t find this story as entertaining as I’d like. I wasn’t a fan of any of the characters ( apart from the witch). In fact I disliked the FMC & the demon detective who I suspect was the romantic interest. 1 star DNF’d it at 50%.
March 12, 2020
Rough
The concept intrigues me but the story ended up falling flat. There were notable typos and awkward sentences, but more important to me was how one dimensional the characters were. The main characters are practically interchangeable, their voice so similar and their topics of discussion so similar that I often forgot whose POV I was reading from. The book ended up feeling like endless whining ( "No one can love me") with an amorphous plot centered on constant reminders that "No one does/can know who/what I am." While I don't expect notable character development in book 1 of a series, I do expect more stage setting than that.
Speaking of stage setting, I am utterly baffled by the rules in this universe. I am a fan of dropping the reader in and forcing them to figure some of it out based on what happens in the book but something then needs to happen to show those rules. We get very little of that here, except various brawls where our supposedly awesome heroine gets her butt kicked and her demon love interest gets his kicked too. To sum up what I know about the universe is that these two have almost no special skills tied to their species and are barely stronger than humans, though they know how to throw a goblin or five. Though I thought it odd they didn't seriously wound anyone, or kill them. Guess there's a moral or legal component to why but it's never addressed. Maybe they are just incompetent fighters.
On top of this is a fairly standard plot in which things are conveniently revealed only when they become relevant. No foreshadowing, no introducing a concept to build on it later when it becomes more central; instead they are plot devices dropped in with a heavy hand to explain something.
I won't be continuing with this series, but I suspect a more patient reader could stick this series out and be rewarded.
The concept intrigues me but the story ended up falling flat. There were notable typos and awkward sentences, but more important to me was how one dimensional the characters were. The main characters are practically interchangeable, their voice so similar and their topics of discussion so similar that I often forgot whose POV I was reading from. The book ended up feeling like endless whining ( "No one can love me") with an amorphous plot centered on constant reminders that "No one does/can know who/what I am." While I don't expect notable character development in book 1 of a series, I do expect more stage setting than that.
Speaking of stage setting, I am utterly baffled by the rules in this universe. I am a fan of dropping the reader in and forcing them to figure some of it out based on what happens in the book but something then needs to happen to show those rules. We get very little of that here, except various brawls where our supposedly awesome heroine gets her butt kicked and her demon love interest gets his kicked too. To sum up what I know about the universe is that these two have almost no special skills tied to their species and are barely stronger than humans, though they know how to throw a goblin or five. Though I thought it odd they didn't seriously wound anyone, or kill them. Guess there's a moral or legal component to why but it's never addressed. Maybe they are just incompetent fighters.
On top of this is a fairly standard plot in which things are conveniently revealed only when they become relevant. No foreshadowing, no introducing a concept to build on it later when it becomes more central; instead they are plot devices dropped in with a heavy hand to explain something.
I won't be continuing with this series, but I suspect a more patient reader could stick this series out and be rewarded.
March 1, 2020
Oh, what a tangled web we weave.
I had a lot of fun reading this. Mercy is a complex, and broken, character who is indebted to her boss, Damien, but while after her latest bounty the sh!t hits the fan and things really get messy.
Loved the characters. Mercy is scarred and tormented, yet intelligent and resourceful. Rafael also scarred and tormented, but has a core of steel tempered with intelligence. Damien comes across as dangerous and self serving, yet there is a glimpse of something else. Bowen and Shep are more unknowns and Iris was a real cow (potentially a future jealous nemesis).
The antagonist was suitably nasty, and yet there was a mysterious element to his character which made for great future plot points. Fast paced and action packed. I’m definitely moving on to the next book in the series.
4 stars ⭐️
I had a lot of fun reading this. Mercy is a complex, and broken, character who is indebted to her boss, Damien, but while after her latest bounty the sh!t hits the fan and things really get messy.
Loved the characters. Mercy is scarred and tormented, yet intelligent and resourceful. Rafael also scarred and tormented, but has a core of steel tempered with intelligence. Damien comes across as dangerous and self serving, yet there is a glimpse of something else. Bowen and Shep are more unknowns and Iris was a real cow (potentially a future jealous nemesis).
The antagonist was suitably nasty, and yet there was a mysterious element to his character which made for great future plot points. Fast paced and action packed. I’m definitely moving on to the next book in the series.
4 stars ⭐️
July 20, 2020
DNF 75%
While it wasn't spectacularly bad, it wasn't very good either.
While it wasn't spectacularly bad, it wasn't very good either.
August 15, 2023
Was just introduced to this series..
A fun read about a badass 😎 bounty hunter and a growly deamon FBI agent for the supernatural division, both with painful pasts..
A fun read about a badass 😎 bounty hunter and a growly deamon FBI agent for the supernatural division, both with painful pasts..
January 5, 2021
Good characters, including a jealous work partner, a half demon and a bounty hunter. Plenty of action, enough background and description to keep the plot flowing, and a cliff hanger finish, sufficiently intriguing for me to seek out the follow up.
August 11, 2023
This book doesn’t just walk in the footsteps of the great kickass female magic authors like Patricia Briggs and Ilona Andrews, it’s steppes all over their toes. There’s not too much original in the story, in fact, some of it is downright eye roll worthy. If you haven’t read the Mercy Thompson or Kate Daniels series I’d suggest you start there first. If you have, and are looking for more in the same vein, this book is an OK start to a series. Just know you’re going to run into All of the stereotypes, including an asshole boss, a love triangle, werewolves and vampires, a girl with a blade who is both special and misunderstood… seriously, I think she’s wearing Bo’s Lost Girl outfit, and last but not least, dry curtains.
July 1, 2020
I really liked this book. The storyline was great - lots of action, drama, danger and mystery with a hint of romance coming through. The main characters were dysfunctional but likeable, and there were lots of other characters I didn't know whether to like or dislike. I like books where things aren't black and white.
It could have done with a proofreader. I expect a few errors in books, but there were obvious things that shouldn't have been missed by a good proofreader.
It is the first of a series, so it did finish up in the air, but I have already downloaded the next book ready to go and am looking forward to starting it.
It could have done with a proofreader. I expect a few errors in books, but there were obvious things that shouldn't have been missed by a good proofreader.
It is the first of a series, so it did finish up in the air, but I have already downloaded the next book ready to go and am looking forward to starting it.
June 17, 2020
So much fun!
A bit of snark and a lot of mystery surround this newest heroine! Who is she really? Read the book and find out the juiciest tidbit of the whole book at the end. But read the whole damn thing to get invested with to people who share a struggle and don’t even know it. The tension in this book was amazing. I’m still thinking of the last fight scene and wondering wth happened. And really... siren or not, take no for an answer Iris. Back off 🤣
A bit of snark and a lot of mystery surround this newest heroine! Who is she really? Read the book and find out the juiciest tidbit of the whole book at the end. But read the whole damn thing to get invested with to people who share a struggle and don’t even know it. The tension in this book was amazing. I’m still thinking of the last fight scene and wondering wth happened. And really... siren or not, take no for an answer Iris. Back off 🤣
June 21, 2020
Different!
I've read lots of bounty hunter stories, this is a different slant on them.
Mercy is her name, bounty hunting is her game. But don't be fooled she doesn't take after her name, she'd sooner kill if you pee her off!
Throw in a handsome demon who's more likely to growl at you than talk,it makes a very entertaining book.
I've read lots of bounty hunter stories, this is a different slant on them.
Mercy is her name, bounty hunting is her game. But don't be fooled she doesn't take after her name, she'd sooner kill if you pee her off!
Throw in a handsome demon who's more likely to growl at you than talk,it makes a very entertaining book.
October 2, 2020
What a great read
I am not a scolar. I like books to read not to analize. If a book does not capture my attention after the second page I do not often make the effort to read anymore. This book got my attention on the first page and I couldnt put it down. It had all my favorite super naturals almost as if it were written exclusively for me. WOW. Thanks for a wonderful read
I am not a scolar. I like books to read not to analize. If a book does not capture my attention after the second page I do not often make the effort to read anymore. This book got my attention on the first page and I couldnt put it down. It had all my favorite super naturals almost as if it were written exclusively for me. WOW. Thanks for a wonderful read
March 17, 2019
Read : March 17th 2019
Rating : 5 Stars
This was free on amazon and I'm really glad i got it because it is simply awesome!
Mercy Temple is a great character, she is no simpering damsel in distress which makes her very fun to read.
Rating : 5 Stars
This was free on amazon and I'm really glad i got it because it is simply awesome!
Mercy Temple is a great character, she is no simpering damsel in distress which makes her very fun to read.
June 18, 2020
Not bad
A little repetitive with the inner monologue, but I liked the relationship between the two main characters. We but a few questions answered me, but There are still a few mysteries to be revealed in future books.
A little repetitive with the inner monologue, but I liked the relationship between the two main characters. We but a few questions answered me, but There are still a few mysteries to be revealed in future books.
June 29, 2020
Oh my gosh
Had no idea what this book was about. Had me from the first paragraph. Can't wait to start the next one. Full of action, secrets and just a hint of unrequited desire. Love it.
Had no idea what this book was about. Had me from the first paragraph. Can't wait to start the next one. Full of action, secrets and just a hint of unrequited desire. Love it.
July 20, 2020
Loved
Really enjoyed this book and look forwards to seeing how the characters develop. We're just scratching the surface of some complex characters and there's a definite will they won't they going on.
Really enjoyed this book and look forwards to seeing how the characters develop. We're just scratching the surface of some complex characters and there's a definite will they won't they going on.
January 19, 2019
Great Book
Great Book and powerful I love the book and I think that you might like it too
Thank You For Letting Me Read This Book I love it
Great Book and powerful I love the book and I think that you might like it too
Thank You For Letting Me Read This Book I love it
June 18, 2020
Acts of Mercy
Ah Mercy, what a great character and kickass bounty hunter. I cannot wait for the next book which ,hopefully, will reveal more of her backstory.
Ah Mercy, what a great character and kickass bounty hunter. I cannot wait for the next book which ,hopefully, will reveal more of her backstory.
June 19, 2020
Action packed book with every supernatural creature that one can think of. I was wrong about the MC heritage...but nice twist.
June 28, 2020
Something new, I like it.
July 27, 2020
was good.
August 13, 2020
Well done.
I don't buy a lot of books but I do read a lot. Looking for the next series I like. Know I will buy the next one in this.
I don't buy a lot of books but I do read a lot. Looking for the next series I like. Know I will buy the next one in this.
August 14, 2020
I’ve found a new author to add to my must read list. This book is again full of everything I would look for in urban fantasy and more besides. Highly recommended.
October 18, 2020
Sector wow
Loved every second of it. Didn't expect it to be this riveting.
I'll be looking out for the next one
Loved every second of it. Didn't expect it to be this riveting.
I'll be looking out for the next one
June 27, 2021
Reread
December 23, 2022
Mercy Temple is a young woman with a hardened shell around her heart and a thick skin, but that is part of the job description when you are a bounty hunter, especially a paranormal bounty hunter and your boss hold pretty much all of the cards, but she doesn't let that stop her and she also knows that she is damn good at her job regardless. As she is going after her latest bounty, she comes across some problems which she shouldn't have to deal with, but she still gets her man, or goblin in this case, but when her next case lands in her hands, she doesn't have much to go on and she needs to call in some favours and hit up some of her informants to see if she can find anything else out about her target.
Rafael is a demon with an agitated spirit and a whole lot of rage, but he tries to keep a lid on it thanks to the destruction it could cause if he lets look his firepower, but his latest case as an agent of the Federal Paranormal Unit getting snagged by the same bounty hunter as the last one grates on his last nerve, so when his next target comes across his desk, he is determined to catch them first. The only thing is that his old partner is back in town and they have to go to a black tie event in the last place he wants to go.
When Mercy is told that she has to go to a balck tie ball to retrieve her target, she is less than impressed and it is especially rankling when it is being held in a place where if someone recognises her she will probably die, but what the hell, you only live once and she may not get another chace, so she attends but ends up biting off more than she can chew, especially when she runs into a problem which is tall, dark and handsome, but what is worse is that she can't seem to shake him or catch a break on her target, so how can she handle all these problems without gettinf herself killed? This is a whirlwind race around a supernatural world which has blended in with the human one, in order to catch a predator and save the lives of those around her before time runs out.
Rafael is a demon with an agitated spirit and a whole lot of rage, but he tries to keep a lid on it thanks to the destruction it could cause if he lets look his firepower, but his latest case as an agent of the Federal Paranormal Unit getting snagged by the same bounty hunter as the last one grates on his last nerve, so when his next target comes across his desk, he is determined to catch them first. The only thing is that his old partner is back in town and they have to go to a black tie event in the last place he wants to go.
When Mercy is told that she has to go to a balck tie ball to retrieve her target, she is less than impressed and it is especially rankling when it is being held in a place where if someone recognises her she will probably die, but what the hell, you only live once and she may not get another chace, so she attends but ends up biting off more than she can chew, especially when she runs into a problem which is tall, dark and handsome, but what is worse is that she can't seem to shake him or catch a break on her target, so how can she handle all these problems without gettinf herself killed? This is a whirlwind race around a supernatural world which has blended in with the human one, in order to catch a predator and save the lives of those around her before time runs out.
May 9, 2023
Let me try again since I've written 2 that didn't make it...
What's awesome... I got the first book for free, so thank you, Miss Graves! Seriously.
It's strange to be as confused at the end of a first book... the world building was not so great to me since the whole she's cursed so she can't use her magic... cursed by mages?! Really? I've never heard of "Mages" doing curses... witches on the other hand TONS... the characters hate mages who are apparently using dark magic?! Maybe it's me but did anyone else see Harry Potter in their heads? Down to the scar hurting her... I don't know smh...
Thing is I shouldn't be applying another author's universe's rules to a different author's book!! Though I don't remember the book offering any type of clear delineation between the two magics and that's fundamental.
The book needs editing properly. It's not a fill-in-the-blank book afterall! Though I realise this is a completed book series so editing it now may not matter too much...
I found myself not connecting to the protagonist nor the co-protagonist? Mercy feels one dimensional, and Rafael is just I don't know all growly one dimensional. Their stories or the way they view themselves was just to similar that I found myself forgetting who I was reading about for bits of time which threw me off. I get people connecting because they can understand one another's pain only it was just too much the same.
Overall, now that I'm finished I don't find myself really invested to the point that I will buy the second book and that's not good. Out of all the characters the one I want to know more about is Bowen which makes NO sense since he's, at this point, a background character! I'm not even sure why I'm so curious. Is this supposed to end up as a reverse harem since she's feeling these things for two men? Ugh. I'm going to go read something else and I'll figure out I'd I'm curious enough about Bowen that I'll be buying book 2.
Happy reading!!!
What's awesome... I got the first book for free, so thank you, Miss Graves! Seriously.
It's strange to be as confused at the end of a first book... the world building was not so great to me since the whole she's cursed so she can't use her magic... cursed by mages?! Really? I've never heard of "Mages" doing curses... witches on the other hand TONS... the characters hate mages who are apparently using dark magic?! Maybe it's me but did anyone else see Harry Potter in their heads? Down to the scar hurting her... I don't know smh...
Thing is I shouldn't be applying another author's universe's rules to a different author's book!! Though I don't remember the book offering any type of clear delineation between the two magics and that's fundamental.
The book needs editing properly. It's not a fill-in-the-blank book afterall! Though I realise this is a completed book series so editing it now may not matter too much...
I found myself not connecting to the protagonist nor the co-protagonist? Mercy feels one dimensional, and Rafael is just I don't know all growly one dimensional. Their stories or the way they view themselves was just to similar that I found myself forgetting who I was reading about for bits of time which threw me off. I get people connecting because they can understand one another's pain only it was just too much the same.
Overall, now that I'm finished I don't find myself really invested to the point that I will buy the second book and that's not good. Out of all the characters the one I want to know more about is Bowen which makes NO sense since he's, at this point, a background character! I'm not even sure why I'm so curious. Is this supposed to end up as a reverse harem since she's feeling these things for two men? Ugh. I'm going to go read something else and I'll figure out I'd I'm curious enough about Bowen that I'll be buying book 2.
Happy reading!!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews