Ex-rock star, Dusty Song, abandons her music career to become a U.S. Marshal tasked with safeguarding vulnerable people from the criminals set on silencing them. When Dusty first encounters the illustrious Honorable Judge Bidwell, she sees a woman marked by the cases she's tried.
Years later, Dusty remembers the strong-willed, audacious woman as the unlikeable star of the courtroom. When she's called in to revisit the case following a series of disturbing reports, she comes upon a Mercedes Bidwell much different than her memory recalls. The two women walk together on a path seeded by those who came before them, carrying a silent wish in hope that someday someone will see them for who they truly are.
Max grew up just outside of New York City, spending most of her formative years outdoors creating wild ghost hunts with neighborhood kids, setting booby-traps to capture unwitting family members, and building clubhouses on top of ten-foot walls. Max wrote her first story at the age of twelve and titled it Circles of Friendship. Through the years, Max has written several short-stories and poems, all of which met the wrath of the “Not Good Enough” monster and ended in fiery demise.
Max regained her confidence when she began writing scholarly articles and research theses on her first trip through graduate school. It took several years for her to break the habit of the formal writing that marred her creativity. An additional Master of Fine Arts degree in Creative Writing was Max’s biggest support in this. Max writes primarily sci-fi/fantasy, paranormal romance, and Young Adult stories.
It was bittersweet to see Mercy's walls crumble with Dusty. No pun intended. I always thought it odd that she'd be there helping others but she was always alone. Ellendale wrote Mercy a great story!
This is by far my favorite book in the Four Point Universe. I honestly thought Mermaid would always remain in the #1 spot but it has shifted to #2…
The creative vivid descriptions are amazing, there were moments where tears literally came to my eyes as I submerged myself in the emotions emanating off the pages. This story is filled with intensity, humor, adorableness, passion, love, intimacy, and even has a bit of mystery.
It’s not very often that I fall in love with characters. By page 14 Dusty caught my heart in an unexpected way… After Chapter 2 I didn’t want the story to end… By page 42 my favorite character in the Four Point Universe was confirmed... Dusty Song.
I loved getting to know Dusty and enjoyed experiencing the brilliance of this character and her journey. I’m absolutely astounded by her… her perspective, her desire to understand, her authenticity, her way with words, her desire to protect... I literally could go on and on... but I’m going to keep the rest to myself and bask in my love for her privately. Then there's Mercy... at this point I'm beyond words... you have to experience this for yourself.
It’s been awhile since I’ve been deeply touched by a book. This one is special and deserves to be read by many and reread many times by those that fall in love with this story.
I’m already looking forward to my next reread, which will happen very soon.
Another excellent addition to the Four Point Universe
This eagerly anticipated installment of the Four Point Universe did not disappoint. The usual Ellendale trademarks are there, strong but vulnerable women, great characters, chosen family and belonging.
Dax (from Hart and Stocker) features in this story too which is a major bonus for me, as along with the irreverent and endlessly entertaining enigma that is Sali, she's my favourite character in the Four Point Universe. It is heartwarming to see the skittish creature of that book blossom into the still coarse at times, but quietly supportive and insightful friend to Dee. It is equally moving to see Mercy and Sali navigating through a hurtful shared past, full of guilt on both sides.
Ellendale is the best at writing damaged, resilient women and understanding the impact of trauma. What I especially value is the hope in her writing, the balance of dark and light, seriousness and playfulness. I love how these women live, love and nurture. A totally deserved five star read.
I've read most of the books in the 4 point universe and they're all quite engaging. This book is more for people who follow the universe and are fans of the characters. This book deals with the story of Mercy, known as Sali's ex from the previous books, who thinks she is being stalked. Considering her tryst in witness protection in the past, Dusty, former punk-rockstar-turned-US Marshall is assigned to protect her. It's a relatively low stakes romance and the angst comes in the form of Mercy's mental health issues. The mystery/suspense part was wrapped up rather quickly. The characters were likeable and although Mercy came across as spoiled, she finds some redeeming qualities. 4 stars overall
I have found some of the earlier books in the series highly triggering and the characters suffer through a lot before the conclusion. It was nice to revisit them in a happier setting. I'm a little confused with the timelines in all the books and the ages of the characters though - Here's hoping Max Ellendale makes a flowchart in her next book or uploads it on her social media.
his is a beautiful romance filled with challenges, angst, thriller moments and wonderful characters. Ice Queen but not, love with all the parts that we wish were always true.
Wow, this book! Just wow! First of all, I have been reading lesfic for years and had never come across Max Ellendale or the Four Points Series. I was hesitant to read this book because it's the eleventh book in the series, and having not read any of the others, I thought I would have a difficult time understanding everything. I have to say, I'm so glad that I went with my gut and read it anyway.
This book was so much more than what I expected it to be based on the synopsis. It was way more than a US Marshall protecting a former witness and her son. For me, that main plot was about two women finally meeting the one person they could truly be vulnerable with and learning that having needs was not the same as being needy. I found the author's ability to develop two multidimensional main characters that readers could not only identify with but also identify with their pasts (dare I say baggage). The dialogue was witty and Dusty was so darn charming without really even trying! Characters from some of the other books in the series ( I looked at the synopsizes of the other books) not only made appearances but were integral to one of the story's subplots. I am truly impressed by this author and I look forward to reading all of her other books!
Max does it again. This is a brilliant book that everyone must read. The slow growth of relationship between Dusty and Mercy is truly beautiful to watch and I love how Dusty takes care of Mercy, and sometimes even vice versa. How Mercy's walls get broken down slowly and steadily and Dusty's possessiveness and affection for Mercy that starts off very early and grows exponentially as we read further. Overall, another Masterpiece by Max.
These characters never never get old... Once i start a book from her i know i wont be able to put it down till Im done... Then i have to wait for the next one... Well heres to hoping the series keeps on going... I would love to see more interactions with Salli Dax and Alice.. I think those three personalities together would be a hoot. THE WHOLE SERIES IS MUST READ.. PLEASE DO SO!!!!
What can I say? I thought that Borrowed the novel prior to this one was the best, then Ellendale follows up with this work of art. From the book cover to the actual story I felt this work was inspired. I rarely finish a book in one long read through but this had me hooked from the first page to the last. Could this be a stand alone? Yes I think it could. If you don’t read anything else by this author you will not be sorry you bought this one. High praise is not enough for this work but I give it anyway. Written in first person through the eyes of Dusty it portrays the sadness, anxiety and beauty of Mercy. In addition as a fan of the Four Point Universe you get to see again some of the much loved characters. Mercy frequently in the background in previous books is front and centre. Read it and enjoy every page. I did.
But I wasnt expecting Mercy to slingshot it's way to victory like it did! There were so many feels, as I've come to expect from Max Ellendale, and they hit me in the very best ways!
It was everything I wanted it to be and more! Hearing Mercy's story and connecting all the dots in my head, finally, I can honestly say this is rapidly becoming one of my favorite books so far from this series. Love, love, love Mercy's charcater...her growth, her courage, her soft and playful side was everything. And Dusty... wow... Can I please have one for my own?! Reading through Dusty at some points was like being blanketed in a warm hug that I didnt ever want to stop...
To say I devoured this book would be an understatement I read it so quick and it's a long book mercy was everything I hoped she would be so prickly but full of softness underneath she just needed the right person to look for it and thats Where dusty comes in she was so patient and gentle with mercy right from the start also loved seeing mercy in the court room so gorgeous, I highly recommend reading the four points trilogy Beforehand it adds a richness to mercy's character and you appreciate the amazing characters max has created so much more it's five stars from me 😊
As always, the author shares a story full of chemistry and good pacing. Her style describing every touch and feeling without being unrealistic makes you feel their connection deeply. Add to that a semi ice-queen full of layers and so scared because of her circumstances that you will feel the pull towards her instantly. Mercy is a puzzle to be solved as a character and Dusty is the perfect person to do so. Maybe I’m a little put off with the amount of hook ups among the characters but that’s just me and my silliness. The dialogues between the characters, Mercy’s vulnerability when shown and Dusty’s wiseness, might be my favorite thing in the book.
I know every book on this series has its own soul, but book 10 was my new favorite until I got my hands on this one. I wanted yo hate Mercy because she was always rude, but on her cameos, she went above and beyond to help. I love how we now get to know her...I would have been ok with less tears, but not a biggy....a big 10 from me
Another beautiful installment to the Four Point universe! Max is so good at mixing traumatic stories, crime/mystery, and romance. Her characters are well developed and their connection goes beyond physical (that part is good too ;) ). There are a lot of reoccurring characters in her books but don’t let that deter you from enjoying them! Just make sure you’re reading in order and it will all come together!
I received an ARC of this book and it was very good. A great addition to the series and it’s full of my favorite characters from previous books. I really enjoyed getting to know more about Mercy and her backstory. The other MC, Dusty, was very likable and interesting as well. As always the author gave the characters such emotional depth that you can’t help but be carried away by the story. I would 1000% recommend this book!
Ex-rock star, Dusty Song, abandons her music career to become a U.S. Marshal tasked with safeguarding vulnerable people from the criminals set on silencing them. When Dusty first encounters the illustrious Honorable Judge Bidwell, she sees a woman marked by the cases she's tried.
Years later, Dusty remembers the strong-willed, audacious woman as the unlikeable star of the courtroom. When she's called in to revisit a case following a series of disturbing reports, she comes upon a Mercedes Bidwell much different than her memory recalls. The two women walk together on a path seeded by those who came before them, carrying a silent wish in hope that someday someone will see them for who they truly are.
This book had lots of potential, but the author failed to produce The storyline’s skeleton is interesting and unique, but the writer got in her own way.
Instead of leaving the intimate scenes to late in the book in order to build romantic tension, Ellendale started those scenes early in the book while having the Marshall disregarded her duty to her protectee by becoming involved with her. The book became a series of “vanilla” sex scenes that added nothing to the plot.
The ending, while welcomed, was rushed and only meant for Dusty to reconcile and come out to her family. It was a disappointing ending.
Mercy’s story was a long time coming but worth the wait
Mercy deserved this happy ending. I’ve enjoyed her evolution over the course of this series. She’s made many cameos in other characters stories but now she got to star in her own.
Since Four Point I always thought that Mercy was a bit mis-understood and not necessarily a bad character. What ex-girlfriend gifts a house upon breaking up? Hurt people hurt people and they did it to each other.
I’m glad that Sali and Mercy reconciled their relationship and that Mercy is back in the chosen family. I’m liking Dusty entry into this world too. I’m a Sam fan period. I’m intrigued by the Songs and their entry into the Mermaid pod. I hope that Dusty will continue to pursue her art.
I was totally immersed in the story up until the end which is why I love this author. I highly recommend reading this book. Total escape...
“True value in life comes from how much love you show your kid with your time, attention, patience, and appreciation. It taught me that time is more important.”
“Lust is fine if it's coupled with relationship-building things. Love comes from that, because in the end, lust is temporary. Love isn't. If you love someone, you love everything about them.” + • + • + • +
At long last, wr finally get to Mercy's story! We'll get to know all about her & Sali's doomed history, what's the deal with her & Cin's dysfunctional nature relationship, why there's such awkwardness while interacting with the rest of the 4 Point Fam & actually find out the story behind the events that sent her & her son into into witness protection. So much-needed Mercy 411 getting filled in!
I liked it. The story is more personal than general and that is why I love this series. The characters fave challenges but they're also there for one another.
Mercy and Dusty were a good match. And Sam was good too. Thank God William wasn't bad news.
I loved that Max included that scene between Anita, Sali and Mercy because it is all connected. Part me wishes I could read these series again but the emotions are so strong and heavy, I can only move forward.
I AM VERY MUCH EXCITED TO READ BOOK 12. I have waited a while to be able to read my second favourite characters in this universe. So I am ready.
Mercy Bidwell is a mother, lawyer, university professor and former judge. She is formidable in all areas of her life. Having survived threats on her life and witness protection once before she’s forced into the protection of the U.S. Marshals again. Marshal Dusty Song, former rock star, and previous protector of Mercy and her son, Sam, is back to keep them safe. A story of love, family, friendship and survival. Great series.
This book in all the FP Universe series has the most feels to me. Coupled with the character development that went into both Mercy and Dusty, and the strengthened friendship strands, it has replaced Anita as my series favorite.
I like the glimpses we see of all the other MCs from earlier books throughout this one, esp how the babies have aged and how new ones have come along. It’s like an epilogue to the series.
If you follow the series, you know Mercy is a character from the Four Point trilogy whose made a lot of small appearances in a lot of books in this series but we finally get her whole story here. Lots of other characters appear and Mercy finally gets her "happily ever after". Love this series!
Ms Ellendale does not disappoint in this 11th installment of the Four Point series. This is a very well written tale about finding love. The characters are well developed, and the storyline flows from the pages. If you are looking for a feel-good tale of lesbian love with a happily ever after, this book belongs on your must-read list.
Another brilliant book from Max. Mercy's reputation is of fire and ferocity, Dusty has been there & heard it all before but this time her emotions get the better of her and she falls into the pit that is Mercedes Bidwell. And when you think it can't get any better, Dax, Sali & Maggie show up to protect and annoy.
Max has done it again with this wonderful installment into the Four Point Universe. It's sweet and adorable. Starts as a slow burn but picks up steam fast. The witty banter is yhe greatest and i just LOVE Mercy. Badass Lawyer to Cuddly lover. Such a good read
Every book in this series is an amazing addition. I have re read so many times. We have been told about mercy since book one in the original trilogy. Now she has her own story and it’s amazing. This is definitely my second favorite. Hart and stocker is my absolute favorite. The parts were all the characters get together, and banter is so funny. I truly wait at the edge of my seat for every new release of max.