Heartless

A Born Assassin #2

by Jacqueline Pawl

Mercy gave up everything to save Tamriel’s life, and now the Assassins will never stop hunting them.


With ruthless killers stalking their tracks and a deadly plague sweeping across the kingdom, Mercy’s only chance of survival is to accompany the prince to the wild and war-torn Cirisor Islands. That is, until Tamriel threatens to cast her out unless she names the person behind the contract on his life—his own cousin.


And Calum will kill to keep his secret safe.


When secrets, betrayals, and misplaced trust threaten to tear their group apart, the three of them must work together to ensure that Cassius Bacha’s vision of the cure comes to fruition. They’ll do anything to save Tamriel’s people and right the wrongs the mad king has committed, but first, they have to survive the Islands—and each other.


Heartless is the second book of an epic fantasy series full of cutthroat court intrigue, morally gray characters, unforgettable plot twists, and slow-burn romance—perfect for fans of Throne of Glass and The Cruel Prince.

Genres: Fantasy, Romance

329 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 15, 2021

About the author

Jacqueline Pawl can be most often found reading, writing, or shopping for even more books to add to her ever-growing ‘to-read’ pile. (She swears, someday she’ll get a chance to read all of them.) MERCILESS is the first book in her Throne of Glass-esque fantasy series, complete with tough-as-nails assassins, snarky blacksmiths, a dreamy prince, and a mad king.

Reviews

[Judi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holy canolli! Heartless has completely blown my mind!

I can't remember the last time a book kept me so on the edge of my seat. So enthralled that I simply couldn't put it down. This tale of treachery, intrigue and betrayal, of love and honor, of budding romance and heartbreaking treason, captures you thoroughly and completely and with a mastery of such sympathetic imagery that your heart becomes a part of every scene, your emotions get wrapped up with every tear that falls, every laugh that rings out.

You will be doing yourself a true disservice if you don't read, first Merciless and then Heartless (and get the novella prequel Helpless too!). There are very few authors that can write with such clarity, such amazing storytelling ability for their first series. Jacqueline Pawl has done such an outstanding job that I make a point of recommending her every chance I get.

(So you all know, I don't do spoilers so that's why I give few true details. But I promise, between Mercy, Tamriel and Calum, you're in for a wonderful ride!)

I am in awe. Excellently done, Jackie, so very excellently done! Congratulations!

I received this book as part of the ARC group. This review is in my own words and of my own volition.

[ErinTurnsPages · Rating 4 out of 5]

After the near deadly attack on Tamriel & Mercy’s lives, they see little choice but to travel to the Cirisor islands with Calum in search of the one ingredient that may counter the plague sweeping the land. But when they’re greeted at the islands after a harrowing journey resulting in the loss of one of their own, they’re not exactly welcome guests. While Firesse's people gather the flowers they seek, she tries to convince Mercy to stay with her people. Even going so far as to set up a surprise at Ialathan, one that may backfire on Firesse. As strange things occur on the islands, they find they have to survive each other and make it off the island before they can save the kingdom.

Compared to the first edition of this book, it's a lot more in-depth, you see more from the other characters and get more personality from them. As always the descriptions are fantastic and beautiful. The twists somehow got better and I knew to expect most, if not all, of them. I love how the relationships weren't perfect, they're messy and imperfect, showing not just romance but quarrels as well. This is such an engrossing series and I can't wait to see what changes have been made to the following books.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review

[Beba Andric · Rating 5 out of 5]

A thrilling continuation to this series! Never a dull moment, totally engrossing! One of my favourite characters, Calum, is featured strongly in this book. Despite all the scheming and despicable things Calum has done, I still find him a remarkably likeable character. And when things started going horribly wrong for him, what he is forced to endure and commit to doing, I wanted to climb into the book and console him! On their perilous journey to find the cure for the plague, the small band find danger everywhere, none of them trusting the other. The author lulls one into a false sense of security, with beautifully written dialogue and scenery and then, wham, another scramble to stay alive! I loved how Jaqueline keeps ones attention with her writing style, how she explored the characters inner thoughts, before another battle takes place, which, for me, keeps me riveted, attentive and focused, my eyes barely leaving the pages. Very captivating. Elves and humans, dreadful necromancy, ghosts, a king lost even to himself, a usurper to the throne, a Prince who will do anything for his people, are just some of the exciting happenings. It's so easy to empathise with the characters, they are all so real. Mercy is a wonderful MC, her character steadily growing as the story progresses. She's given up the only way of life she knew, she's hunted, targeted, betrayed, yet she hold steadfast, with a few wobblies of course. Even when faced with an encounter she never deemed possible, she takes it like a trooper. Love her! I know I should also mention Tamriel, but I do confess, I'm more drawn to the badassed, snarky characters, and he's just so nice and an upstanding character. But the three of them, Mercy, Tamriel and Calum balance each other out perfectly. The tension, the scheming and the drama, twist after twist, each one unexpected, culminate to a magnificent climax that had me sucking in my breath! And now I want more!

[Debbie Eyre · Rating 5 out of 5]

This second book is so good it just captures you and draws you in straight away. Well written this is a story of treachery, treason, mystery, intrigue, betrayal, of love and honor, of slow growing romance and heartbreak. It’s such a great continuation that I found myself totally engrossed and on the edge of my seat as I once again joined these amazing characters on their journey!

[J Smart · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved all the twists and turns in this book! She did a great job weaving this story together. I can’t not wait to read the next one and see what happens.

[Charlotte · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had so many twists and turns - I couldn't stop reading!

[Megan Rivera · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great book.

[Tonja Drecker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Secrets, treachery, and revenge keep the tension high, but it's the spark of hope that makes this book shine.

Mercy is determined to keep the Prince alive. Some of it has to do with her attraction to him, but she knows their future is an impossibility. Plus, he hasn't forgiven her for what he sees as her attempt to kill him. She'd love to tell him about the true killer, her cousin, but the cousin makes it clear he'll kill her if she tries. And that's not something any of them can afford, since they need to complete the mission and find the possible cure before the plague wipes out most of the kingdom. Stuck between the two men and running against the clock to find the cure aren't her biggest worries, though. She's betrayed the Guild, and they won't let her survive much longer.

This book cannot be read as a stand-alone, since each book in the series builds on the last.

If you're looking for a slow paced read, this is not it. Mercy has her hands more than full and sticks in so much trouble that the only way she can deal with it is to take one minute at a time. She might be a deadly assassin, but by turning her back on her earlier life, she's in new waters. This makes for a nice balance on uncertainty without making her come across as weak, and it's easy to cheer for her as she tries to master so many directions as best she can.

There is so much going on in this book too. Not only is there the tough relationship with the Prince, a romance which definitely is rocky, but she has a lot to deal with when it comes to discovering who she really is and what she wants. Secrets dribble in constantly, creating unexpected twists around every bend. The 'bad guys' come from so many different directions, that there never appears to be a break, either. Fans of fast-paced fantasy with a strong heroine, who has a sensitive side, will love this series.

I received an ARC copy and enjoyed the adventure. So, I'm leaving my honest thoughts.

[Munky · Rating 3 out of 5]

My biggest issue is that the main character is supposed to be some badass assassin but we never get to see her in action. Would have rated higher if fight scenes showing her prowess were included.

[Inked Thumb · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well, it looks like we got our Tam and Mercy love story back on track! I cannot explain how cute these two were. It was saturated in cute moments and delicious scenes that just captured my attention. Heartless was a brilliant sequel to the Merciless series, I loved how Jackie incorporated some of Mercy’s heritage into the novel, as well as see more a fantasy within the writing.

I’m going to cut this review into three pieces: Tam and Mercy, Calum, the Crown!

At the conclusion of Merciless we left Mercy and Tam in a ruff patch. She was supposed to kill, he found out, it was a whole thing. But the important part is that she didn’t do it. An His Majesty is already in love. So, no take backs! I adored that Tam didn’t just give in to the connection between him and Mercy. I do love a good HEA but it’s no fun when they don’t play hard to get ;). I saw some true acceptance in their relationship and boundary settings between the two of them. It really solidifies that their love isn’t just fluff.

Calum, Calum, Calum. What can I not say about this problem child? He was a villain that you wished was an ally. The brotherhood between Tam and him was inspirational. It gives an accurate example of sibling-hood, the love and the hate. It was funny to witness their moments of ‘ride or die’ and ‘just drop dead’. The intricacy of Calum’s personality, mindset, loyalty, and relations will leave reader playing Sherlock Holmes in their attempts to see Calum’s true colors.

I won’t spoil the story but after reading the novel, I am on pins and needle in trying to figure out what the crown will do! Will they keep Mercy safe? Accept her? Will the King finally become a king worthy of his nation?! Will Tam become King?! All to be figured out in the next book of the Merciless series! I recommend this book to anyone looking for a cute, fantasy adventure. There is a lot of scenes starring Tam and Mercy and their love story, but the mystery surrounding the Elves, the curse, Calum’s father, Calum, and the future will lure you into the world of Heartless!

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another page-turner from Jacqueline Pawl! Heartless picks up where Merciless left off. Mercy, Tamriel, and Calum, along with a squad of soldiers, head for Cirisor, where it is believed they can find a cure for the plague that has stricken Sandori. Tamriel knows that Mercy was sent to kill him and is barely speaking to her - never mind the fact that she burned all her bridges with the Daughters when she killed two of them. And she can't tell him the truth about the contract on his life.

Things don't really get much better once they reach Cirisor. The Cirisian elves have no reason to trust humans, given humans' disdain for and mistreatment of them. But they appear willing to take Mercy in as one of their own, if only she is willing.

This book is a humdinger! We jump back into the world of Merciless, replete with incidents and "accidents", hints and allegations. There is tension - between Tamriel and Mercy, between Mercy and Calum, between elves and humans, between the right choices and the wrong ones. There is intrigue, an unexpected evil, and betrayal. Secrets are revealed and alliances are built. And we get to go along for the ride.

When I read Merciless, the use of third person present tense was a little distracting at first. This time, that caused no such issues. We learn more about the main characters, and the book leaves off in a spot where I have GOT to have the next one in the series to find out what happens next. Ms. Pawl does an excellent job of continuing to flesh out this universe and develop her characters into multi-faceted, and fascinating, people. Well done!

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy from the author. All opinions here are mine, and I don't say nice things about books I don't like.

[SD Jericho · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I reviewed Merciless, one of main points I mentioned that detracted from my enjoyment of the story was the following:
The book is written as a third person omniscient narrative in the present tense – and I've read books written in this way before but for some reason, this time, it made me feel like I was a peeping tom eavesdropping on these characters playing out their roles. This narrative is not my favourite as it makes it very difficult for me to feel like I am part of the story and to connect with any of the characters; even Mercy, who is our protagonist and the person I wanted to root for most.

The strange thing is that this time I didn’t mind it at all; if anything, I gloried in the flow of it which was something quite reminiscent of sitting around a campfire and having stories of lore and legends passed on to you. It was oddly comforting. And I could easily immerse myself in the story as the narrator in my mind quietly settled me into this tale.

I was enamored from beginning to end. The connection that I’d worked hard to forge with Mercy in Merciless, was created so easily this time. The battles and the triumphs are different in this leg of the adventure, but it is no less inviting, fascinating and intriguing. I was pulled in and fully committed from the first chapter and there was no end of “wow” factor as I followed through. I… FELT… this book in its entirety.

Heartless is a thrilling follow-up to Merciless and I can’t imagine how it could ever be improved upon in the next installment but when one considers the incredible talent of Ms. Pawl and her absolute dedication to the details, I think I shall prepare myself for utter epic-ness!

[Gabby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heartless is a stellar sequel!

I loved Heartless, the book starts seamlessly where Merciless ended which is Mercy, Tamriel, Calum, and the royal guards journeying to find the cure to the plague that’s descended on Sandori.

As the story unfolded I loved “watching” the push and pull that happened between Mercy and Tamriel as they traveled together. It was realistic in the sense that not all things would just immediately go back to normal between them after her “betrayal” came to light. They had to first sort through their emotional baggage before they could even begin to breach the void between them. Some aspects of that were very relatable so it really pulled me in. Adding in the obstacles and challenges they faced along the way just made me flip the pages even faster!

And of course let’s not forget about Calum and his internal struggles with the choices he’s made or wants/has to pursue, wether that be willingly or not. It was great reading his perspective and finding out that not everything is as it seems when it comes to him. He’s not just a typical villain type character that I was led to believe in the first book. Theres’s that gray area that makes you really take a second look at him and think about what led him to that point and question who is he really. I definitely enjoyed seeing more of his character throughout this book!

All in all I loved the emotional rollercoasters, amazing world building, and kick ass action throughout the story. I truly can’t wait to read the next installment in the series, Ruthless!

[Tiffany · Rating 4 out of 5]

After reading this book, I wanted to write and post this review to share my honest experiences toward the story.

This is the second book in the Born Assassin series, and I can say without hesitation that is just as great as the first! We pick up where book 1 left off, and follow Mercy, Tamriel and Calum through this action packed, suspenseful page turner. Like the first, it is very well written and keeps you reading, and also introduces a new setting and meeting a new culture, which the author has executed flawlessly and seamlessly. There wasn’t as much character development in this one, although Calum went through a great development, but the worldbuilding is amazing and the storyline got even stronger. There were so many plot twists and turns that made me want to keep on reading, and there was so much action this time around.

Again, I got a Lunar Chronicles vibe from reading this in that they are looking for a cure to the plague. It’s still a clean read, with only mild curses and no adult content, but there is a bit more romance in this book.

The first two books in this series have been great, really looking forward to seeing how the rest of the series continues!!

[Novel Grounds · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm a little late to the party with this but I totally missed the release! I KNOW GUYS. But really. I literally devoured this book. There were so many twists that I sear I spent half the book gasping.


I need more in this book. Actually I need 2 or 3 more books in this series. I cannot wait to see where these new twists go. The first book in this seers absolutely had the BEST world building and I feel like this author has only grown since them. From the moment I started the second book, I couldn't stop reading.

This was one of those 2am reads that you blink and you are up in the middle of the night reading.
All the of the drama with these characters too. I swear I spent half the book yelling at it because I could see the foreshadowing and the other half yelling because OMG the palpable chemistry guys!

I cannot wait for the next book.

[Natasha Clark-French · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great follow up in the series. We get all the action and adventure without any of the necessary backstory or world building. And there is a lot of action and adventure! Like so much! In fact, it would've been nice if there had been more moments where the action slowed down and character development could've expanded. The character growth was one of the parts most lacking in this book. There were some strong moments but there was definitely more focus on continuing the storyline. But at least there's never a boring moment and the characters are memorable. I would like to continue the series but I'm hoping the author can take a beat to flush out the characters a bit more and and work on improving the writing a bit so it flows better. Because as much as I love this story I don't think the writing is strong enough to put these books on the shelves in a store. A little reworking though and these would be 5 star books.

[Sarah Turner · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh the twists 😍 I love a good twist but they are always so predictable but not this time! I was kept on the edge of my seat with this one. For a first series this is by far written beyond expectations. If you have not yet read Merciless (book 1) and Helpless (prequel) I highly recommend you do before starting this adventure. I don't give away spoilers but I will say the characters individual stories and how they intertwine are wonderfully written you feel like you are living through it all with them.

Disclaimer I was provided a copy of this book for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

Well done Jacqueline!

[Courtney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Incredibly enjoyable! What a fantastic adventure, it's exciting and action packed. You see the development in the characters, they learn from there experiences and make unlikely allies along the way.

Tamriel really grows on this adventure. He has a lot to learn about ruling and commanding, throughout the book you see his failures and successes.

Mercy is a still a strong assassin, still skilled in fighting but she learns to fight for a purpose instead of for coin. She is strong and unyielding but also develops a more caring and sincere side.

I had a hard time putting this one down. I can't wait to start the next one to continue this adventure!

[Leah Dynes · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was great! Tamriel, Mercy, Calium, and their guards are off to try to find a cure for the plague. They’re all distrustful towards each other from past events, and once they reach the islands to find the things needed for the cure, they must work together to stay alive with the distrustful elves who live there and despise humans. This book is full of action, adventure, and twists you never see coming. I’d recommend it.

[Candice Waite · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found myself being pulled into the story very quickly and enjoyed getting to know each of the characters better in this second book. I loved seeing the softening of Mercy as she is forgiven by Tamriel and meets her parents. The journey to the islands was full of adventure. My heart hurt as we lost characters I had grown to love. This book left me with questions about how it will all work out in the end, will a cure be found? Can good win over evil? So excited. I can't wait to read more.

[MRS C MARSHALL · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read this book giving my honest review.
Wow what an adventure. Betrayal, love twists this book has it all.
I really enjoyed from beginning to end, Could not put it down.
Love all the people in it especially Callum what can you say about him and the rest.
You have to read this book for yourself. Left on a cliff hanger.

[Dawn Milligan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm really enjoying the journey Jaqueline is taking with this story she weaves a great tale with wonderful characters and I cannt wait to see where this goes! I did read the prequel and boom one and loved them!

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

*All of my reviews are voluntarily written*

Heartless is the second book in the A Born Assassin series, and I loved it!

The world building in both books has been great!

The story was never boring, and I enjoyed every minute of it. I can't wait to read more books in the series!

[corriganann · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story has been fun and engaging, at times predictable but still satisfying. There are moments you want to cry, laugh, swoon, be angry, and everything in between but it’s worth it. I look forward to starting the next book!

[Kylie · Rating 2 out of 5]

I’m not feeling this ... the present tense annoyed me a lot more in book two ... still can’t warm to the main character ...

[freya · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️

calum i am praying for you 🙏. wishing him the best of luck.

[Camillea Camillea · Rating 3 out of 5]

I usually have doubts about reading the sequel to a book I love because of the dreaded second book syndrome, but Heartless was amazing from the beginning till the end. The plot of the book rises and twists in unpredictable ways. I love that in book two, we discover more about the elven clan and their culture. It takes a lot for a book to keep me on edge. I generally I'm not the kind of reader to feel that climatic excitement easily but Heartless achieved that with me. Secondly, the character growth in this book is way better than in Merciless. The author takes the time to dwell more into her character's emotions.

Although this book has been classified as Young Adult, I do believe it is more fitting to the New Adult to Adult category. Updated: With that said, the reason I gave three stars is that the writing was not as gripping for me. I enjoyed the book but it did not really stick with me.

Book Review for MERCILESS BY JACQUELINE PAWL: AN UNLIKABLE ELF ASSASSIN, A COURT OF ESPIONAGE, AND A LAND GOVERNED BY GRIEF

A BIG THANK YOU TO THE AUTHOR FOR PROVIDING ME WITH A REVIEW COPY OF THE BOOK. HOWEVER, THIS DOES NOT AFFECT MY REVIEW.

Find me at Camillea Reads || Twitter || Instagram

[LooseBoots · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another outstanding read. A worthy sequel just as intense and exciting as the first .
I think I have fallen in love with the character of Mercy. She has been through so much . But all the characters are solid and the storyline flows beautifully ensuring that you enjoy every moment of the journey.
I’ll be pressing for book 3 every week, it’s that good.

[Lily · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved the first book and this second one didn't disappoint! I can't wait to see what Jacqueline Pawl has in store for Mercy one the third book!

*I've received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review*