I don’t give a damn about labels. I never have. Not when it comes to me. But stay the hell away from my brothers. All of them. I’ve sacrificed a lot for them, and I’m more than willing to give a lot more.
If my blood, sweat, tears, and life were needed, I’d give it all up. Every damn drop. For my brothers, there was nothing I wouldn’t lose.
Until her.
Reckless, ferocious, and seemingly born to match me in temperament and spirit, Hellspawn is not the fragile flower they all think she is. I don’t think she ever has been. She will not be left behind, she will not hide, and she will not take the crap that life has been throwing at her.
She’s saved our lives, defended us, fought for us, and sacrificed herself for us. I have no questions about what she would do if they tried to leverage us against her. This is why I won’t allow anyone to put her to that test. She has nothing to prove to us.
She’s a Vandal.
My name is Liam O’Connell. Hellspawn is mine. Emersyn is ours. We aren’t going to wait around for the next attack. No, we’re taking the fight right to them.
MERCILESS SPY is a full length mature dark, new adult romance with enemies-to-lovers/love-hate themes. The dark romance aspects of this tale continue. Please be aware some situations may be uncomfortable for readers. Trigger warnings can be found in the foreword should you require them. This is a reverse harem novel, meaning the main character has more than one love interest. This is book seven in the series.
I love books. Not just a little bit, but a lot. Books were my best friends when I was growing up. Books didn’t care if I was new to a town or to a class. They were always there, my trustiest of companions. Until they turned on me and said I had to write them.
I can tell you that my own personal happily ever after included writing books. I’ve always said that an HEA is a work in progress. It’s true in my marriage, my friendships, and in my career. I am constantly nurturing my muse as we dive into new tales, new tropes, new characters and more.
After seventeen years back in Texas, we relocated to the Pacific Northwest in search of seasons, new experiences, and new geography. I can’t wait to discover what life (and my muse) have in store for me.
Maybe writing was always my destiny and romance my fate. After all, my grandmother wasn’t a fan of picture books and used to read me her Harlequin Romance novels.
Friends to lovers, enemies to lovers, friends to enemies to lovers, you name it, I love them and love to write them. I started with Earth Witches Aren’t Easy, the first in the Chance Monroe trilogy, but my characters and I have traveled a long way since I created that urban fantasy world.
One of the series I hear my readers recommend the most is the Untouchable series followed in quick succession by the Vandals, and that just delights me. No lie, whenever one of my readers brings up my wolves, I do a little a fist pump.
I’m active on social media, and I love hearing from readers. Feel free to tag me with a question about any of my books, or just say hi!
As much as it pains me to DNF as series 7 books in, I just can’t bring myself to keep punishing myself by forcing a read that lost me along the way.
The writing itself is good, the author is funny on her posts online, the personalities of *some* characters are distinguishable and unique which isn’t always easy to do in an RH that largr,
But I would love to see more authors making the effort to branch out in not having every FMC be teeny tiny rail thin and having just turned 18, and all the men being humongous jacked dudes who are too old to be involved with her. And everyone is white. All of them. Every character in the books, white. You’re telling me that in a populated city with many gangs running various areas, every single person in the entire city is white? Wild 😵💫
Anyway - you may love this series! I did in the beginning! I think 6 books would’ve been enough and 9 is way too many to drag out this incredibly long story line. By book 7, the almost total lack of progress forward is stunning. At this point, we still have almost no information about plot from book 1.
Oh my wow! Words are somewhat difficult still, especially because I’m not fully sure I’m processing that beyond vicious cliffhanger! Emersyn’s back with the Vandals and we pick up soon after Dangerous Renegade. This time we learn more about Liam’s backstory while so much else is going on. There’s so many things being juggled, but everything has been written in such a way that it’s not overwhelming yet you’re still on edge for a lot of the things. I adore Emersyn & the Vandals. Their relationships are absolutely amazing and the love and support is truly incredible! Learning more about each one’s backstories and how that feeds their relationships with Emersyn is really a testament to how well Heather writes because making something painful relate to something so positive and in such a clear way is amazing. The journey this book takes us on gave me just about every feeling and a few muscle cramps. However, that cliffhanger… yeah, it was shocking and I’ll be on edge now until we get Reckless Thief. Fabulous installment!
Oh Heather- the emotional torture continues! I can’t believe we’re this close to the end- only two books away from the finale. But don’t be deceived- we are far from the finish line. Heather still delivers a book full of an enigmatic aura, a foreboding tension still permeates the pages. And there is still so much to discover. Heather doles out some answers in Merciless Spy, and we get to delve deeper into the histories of our leading men as always, this time with a focus on the edgy twin, Liam. And if you thought Rome stole your heart, buckle up- sweet baby Liam goes through so much…past and present. He’s been one of my favorite men to dig more deeply into, in part because his growth in the series is one of the most visible character journeys. The initial sour patch kid, completely walled up but brimming with intensity has allowed Emersyn to slowly chip away at his wall, and we’re seeing a more emotionally expressive and open hearted man in every passing book. I love that he still has some of his bristles- he’s still a volatile landmine of surly energy just waiting to erupt, but that energy is mostly unleashed out of love and care. For Emersyn. For his brothers.
Emersyn continues to be a marvel- and I loved how Liam’s perspective of her positions us to see the warrior she’s become. She’s always been a survivor, but now she’s thriving more. Despite all she’s been through and sacrificed, she’s become more self-possessed, armed for the first time by an open heart and people who love her in a healthy and restorative way. Emotional safety isn’t something that ANY of these characters have reveled in much over the course of their traumatic lives, but as this crew gets deeper and deeper into the ISH, they find security and home in each other. It’s a beautiful juxtaposition- the worse things get, the more they go through, the more they rip open their past wounds and bleed them out on each other, the more they all heal, the more they find safety in each other. Heather contrasts the darkness of all they have to face and HAVE faced with the light they find in each other- it makes the growing relationships, the crew and each guy with Emersyn all the more restorative and meaningful. And it continues to bolster Emersyn’s strength and confidence to connect, to both lean on them and stand on her own. And, fortunately, Heather also gives us some light moments, and some humor, amidst all the heavy.
Heather continues to sparkle as a character writer. Truth be told, long series and expansive harems aren’t my favorite in general - plots meander and loser their way, filler suffocates momentum, and characters get lost in a huge harem. But Heather has so carefully meted out each characters’ journey, ensured each has so much depth and meaningful layers, and developed a chemistry between each fella and our heroine that feels vividly unique and mutually impactful…no one feels unnecessary and the plot strategically unfolds.Even if my favorite guy has been the same from the start- I licked him, he’s mine. Ut, iIt’s an extraordinary talent to balance this vast cast of leading characters amidst such a complicated plot- but she does it seamlessly.
Of course, we’re left with a insane cliffhanger that will have us all gasping for months while we wait for the penultimate installment. We get some answers, but we have all new questions to answer, new things to puzzle. And puzzling I am, but I know we’ve got lots of drama to go! Can’t wait to find out what’s in store for these vandals next.
Merciless Spy had me absolutely gripped, I dragged out the book for as long as I could because I just didn’t want it to end! As always, just as you think you’re getting some answers, hello I’m looking at you the King, I somehow ended up with more questions than before and my mind working overtime on theories.
Emersyn and the guys’ relationships are growing more than ever, especially hers and Freddie’s. Freddie really shone for me in this book and he is SO strong, I was so proud of him when witnessing his journey and wish I could just give him a big hug! There were also some (yes, more than one) sandwiches here and well, sign me up for more because WOW, one took me by surprise and left me a little weak kneed! I loved seeing Emersyn get some much deserved time with her ropes and getting back on her feet, especially with what she’s been through in the last few books.
Now.. let’s address the elephant in the room because my jaw is still dropped. That ending. Oh my wow. It is cliffhanger of all cliffhangers, just when you think someone’s safe… nope, Heather (I imagine whilst cackling) swung her hammer of crushing hopes and dreams. I’m not okay, bring on April immediately for Reckless Thief!
We won't make decisions for her... we won't cage her up.... over and over we are told this ...... Until they know her decision would not a line with theirs and then they do whatever the hell they want. When they do go behind her back do we get the strong, determined female lead that the author has been trying to make her? No! She gets upset and cries, and then someone removes their clothes of course. (I have no issues with the sex but where did the plot go?) The decisions made would have broken the trust we are to believe they have been building for 7 books now, but she just lets it all go. I am so sad that I would have called this series my favorite back in 2022 I loved books 1-5, what happened? I think the story has to end here for me, the choices the author has made within the story make me uneasy with the whole series as a reader and survivor.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
We already know I have such strong love for this series-- especially the twins. So finally getting to the book where Liam is featured... perfection.
We pick up right where we left off at the end of Dangerous Renegade. This book had an ominous vibe from the beginning, just waiting for the other shoe to drop the whole time. We're in the thick of it now and the pressure just seems to increase with each book that's released. One of my favorite things about this series will always be the relationship that she has with each of the guys and how they are unique. We can always tell the difference between the guys, it's so clear who each of them are, and we can see the differences in how they each interact with her. They all love her but it's in the way they show it. I've been very vocal on my love for the Twins, Kel and Freddie from the beginning and I can say, that hasn't changed.
I'm glad we got the answer of who the King is... but then that just opened the door for even more questions. I remember reading the scene and just thinking "wtf" the whole time. Because any prediction I had for him-- I was dead wrong. I know it's going to be a major plot point later in the series but I won't lie and say that I've made the connection yet. Which is why I CANNOT wait to see how all of this unfolds in the last two books.
Liam, my baby. He goes through so much in this book and I'm just impressed that he doesn't lose it more than he already does. He's grown so much from when we first met him and he nicknamed our girl. I love that he's finally expressing himself. The moments where he is super mad are the one that make me laugh out loud. Because the back and forth between him and Em are just... perfection.
I love how despite the absolute mess that is her life, and their life really, this book is so funny. I found myself laughing out loud so many times while reading this book. I just couldn't help myself. I appreciate that despite all of the drama and darkness, there are still so many moments where there can be a laugh happening. One of my favorite things about Heather's writing.
Oh and I'll think positive thoughts for you and that cliffhanger... cause it's a WILD one.
Steam: 5/5 I am not okay. Let me repeat: I. AM. NOT. OKAY. I won’t be for a while… at least until Reckless Thief comes out.
This book is my favorite installment of the Vandals. I thought I loved Dangerous Renegade, but Heather has seriously outdone herself with Merciless Spy. My emotions ran the gamut during this read. I laughed, I cried, I took a few breathers from sweating so much… my heart and my head were taken for the ride of the century. And just when I thought the Vandals had been through enough… wham! The Pain Train came flying through at the end with a hell of a cliffhanger.
I loved every moment of reading this ARC. Heather gave us so much that I couldn’t believe it was all contained in one book. I’m really trying not to ruin it for anyone, so if you want to go in blind, stop reading my review now! Just know that you will love it, you laugh and cry and scream, but you will love every minute of the pain and pleasure!
So many good moments: - Rome and Liam sandwich 🥪 - Jasper and Liam joining forces 🤝 lol - Freddie having a breakthrough - Emersyn sharing her past with more of the Vandals - More Bodhi!
How do I know this book is not just good but amazing?? I’ve got answers to questions I had, but now I have more questions; I can’t stop thinking about this book. I’m super suspicious of everyone who’s not a vandal. My brain short-circuited after I finished, and I could only write down random words and phrases as I tried to write this review. I’m emotional, and I didn’t think it was possible to fall more deeply in love with all my Vandals.
Can I also just say: LIAM. Liam has my whole heart. It’s hard to pick a favorite Vandal, but Liam… there are no words.
“I laughed until tears were running down my cheeks. Then I laughed some more. When Liam turned me around, I went this time and wrapped my arms around his neck as he picked me up. Somewhere along the way, the laughter turned to sobs, but he didn’t let me go. And he never let me fall.”
I will never again remark on one of Heather’s cliffhangers being less brutal than the others, because she seems to take that as a challenge for the next book 😅
This was a super emotional part of Em and the Vandals’ story. Lots of revelations, relationships moving forward, and people taking steps to better themselves in ways that work for them. And the spice level went 🔥🔥🔥 - especially in the sandwich department 😏
I absolutely loved this book, emotional upheavals and all. The plot continues to surprise me and keep me intrigued. Two more books left in the series and there are still plenty of questions to be answered!
This series is always keeping me on my toes. I loved the new (non-romantic) relationships and seeing how everyone is coming together to take down the common enemy.
There is a lot happening in Merciless Spy. A LOT. I never felt like there was a slow moment, because it doesn't slow down. From beginning to end, there is action.
That cliffhanger has all my emotions in a twist. Hopefully the next book comes out soon because I need to see how things are going to resolve.
When i found out this series was nine books about the same MC's, i was scared it would feel dragged out - but it really doesn't. I love how Emersyn is finding herself, how she is building healthy relationships, and i'm so invested in their story. I find myself thinking about them when i'm not reading, and incredibly grateful to not have started this series before it was finished because some of these endings got me grabbing the next book before i even processed what just happened. So yeah, up to book eight!
Ohhh book 7 🤯🤯😭🤯🥹🤯 holy smokes!!! My heart is racing, I’m sweating the ending has me all kinds of shook!! I have a whole month for book 8 to come out and then another month for book 9! Oh my anxiety, but I CANNOT wait!
Merciless Spy by Heather long is a reverse harem romance. This is the seventh book in the 82 Street Vandals series.
I absolutely love this series! Heather does an amazing job pulling me in from the first chapter and keeping me hooked until the very end. I am loving the relationship between Emersyn and the Vandals.
I really enjoyed getting Emersyn, Kellan, Doc, Vaughn, Liam, Jasper, Rome, Liam, and Freddie's point of views throughout the book. It really brought the story to life.
The book ends on another amazing cliffhanger. I can't wait to dive into the next book in the series Reckless Thief.
I would recommend this series to anyone who loves dark romances, enemies-to-lovers romance, new adult romances, reverse harems, or romantic suspense.
This book comes with trigger warnings, please head the foreword from the author
Book seven picks right up from where book six ended
Be still my heart, this book will exceed your expectations and then some!
Emersyn rips the Band-Aid off and finally discloses to Jasper and Liam the trauma she endured by her uncles hands. The strength and determination of what she had to overcome to get to this point is awe inspiring.
There’s a new player involved, Bodhi, the Vandals are wary off his intentions and are on high alert, they consider him a foe, but him being friends with Freddie and Emersyn have them dividing their opinions, not yet sure what his motives are.
Emersyn’s relationship with Jasper, Liam, Rome, Kellan and Vaughan continues to grow and develop. What they have with her, they will protect at all costs. For they each give her a piece of themselves, different parts of themselves, that make them unique to just her. Emersyn responds to each of them in different ways, they love her quick wit, banter and sassy humour, it’s what makes them love her, and her them.
Emersyn and Freddie’s friendship is like no other. Post Pinetree, he is still very protective of her, they support each other through those challenging moments, aware of each other’s boundaries and what is and isn’t acceptable, and in one moment that changes, and there dynamics shift. Freddie seeks help and support, two of the biggest things that he has struggled with his entire life, and yet again the incredible strength he has show, this far, his determination, to prove that he can rise above those demons, and his family will be there with him every step of the way.
Doc knows he hurt Emersyn, by pushing her away, he was only protecting himself and her. He knows better than anyone else what she endured. He knew it wasn’t right, but still…. Doc is determined to mend his relationship with her, and he gives her permission to make it hurt, in some parts she does, where in others they get to experience moments of happiness, something they have both longed for and I cannot wait to see where it leads.
Emersyn still struggles with her past and the trauma she has endured, the nightmares still fleeting, but the more she opens up about everything, accepting herself and knowing what she cannot change, she is taking back her power, breaking the hold of the vicious cycle that she is circling.
And in one pivotal moment between herself, Liam and Rome, does she make a choice, where she pushes her limits and boundaries, where they take away her most painful moments and replace it with the most pleasurable experience, taking control of that fear, wielding in, then smashing it to smithereens.
However, something Liam has been trying to hold off on, he now no longer can, for the elusive King has requested an audience with Emersyn. And these turn of events could not prepare them for the Kings request, for whether Emersyn is part of this world or not, by association, she is now a Royal. And what the King wants, is what the King gets.
Lainey was noticeable absent from the book, but for good reason, which sees a brooding Milo accepting the fallout of his choice. Milo’s brotherly affection for Ivy is bittersweet. He has come to accept her relationship with her guys, but at times can become awkward when he overhears and or walks into a situation that he doesn’t want to hear or see. That connection of sibling banter, is simply them making up for lost time. Milo continues to share stories of his life growing up with there mother, as they continue to build there sibling relationship further.
Ms. Stephanie is an important part of the series, and has a connection to each of the Vandals and Emersyn’s guys, oh the mischief they got up to when growing up, the stories she tells, helps Emersyn to understand her guys but see and feel them in a new yet different light. Liam’s parents made a surprise visit, and were ever so delighted to meet Emersyn, and she them, but with having them here could make them potential targets, more-so collateral damage.
And we finally meet the elusive Mrs. Sharpe. Emersyn’s mum. The Vandals came to her aid, at Emersyn’s behest, removing her from the volatile situation that she was in. But she has an uphill battle, with Doc’s support and assistance they get her through the most challenging part. But what is most heartbreaking is her revelation, about what she believes happened to Emersyn, yet it is not clear as to what she did or didn’t know, and the part she may have played in all of this.
What is disconcerting, is how quiet is has been, there trip to the nightclub uneventful, yet is has them all on edge and for very good reason, because uncle Bradley and or this unknown entity is determined to hurt those closest to the Vandals and Emersyn, to weed out the weakest link and hit them where it will hurt the most, for if that ending is anything to go by, only time will tell to see who and what of the Vandals remain and how Doc will deal with this magnanimous fallout.
This book has it all dark romance, seven possessive dominant alpha males, a strong female protagonist who gives as good as she gets, love, murder, madness, mayhem, revenge, vengeance, violence, trauma, intrigue, defiance, adrenaline seeking suspense, humour, friendship, jealousy, twists, turns, truths, deception and betrayal.
This story is told from multiple POV, it will take you on a wild ride, having you turn page after page, this book had me from the beginning to the end. Reading this story, it enables the readers to really connect with the characters, and as the story continues to unfold the readers see the development and growth from the characters singularly and together.
It’s what shapes our characters, telling the readers who they are flaws and all, that they are in fact humans who all feel but handle what happened to them differently. The author definitely knows how to write and I’ll be coming back for more.
And those s*x scenes were steamy, yet sensual, dirty, hot, intense, physical, provocative, it had all the angry angst, hate, jealousy, pleasure and passion one would except when Kellan, Vaughan, Jasper, Rome and Liam, showing Emersyn that she is more than the darkness inside of her, breaking down her walls and removing those barriers, respecting her limits and boundaries, wants and needs. For they take what they want within reason, each giving Emersyn the pain and pleasure she deserve, their possessive and obsessive need for control and dominance, it was off the charts and had all of the feels.
Despite Emersyn’s trauma, Kellan, Vaughan, Jasper, Rome, Liam, Doc and Freddie work well together in there own way, because nothing and no one will come between them. They love each other, regardless of there differences, because they are in this together. Milo continues to accept the dynamics of Emersyn’s relationship with Doc, Freddie, Kellan, Vaughan, Jasper, Rome and Liam as is Emersyn is with Milo and Lainey.
Now here’s to anticipating what book 8 Reckless Thief brings!
Highly recommend both book and author!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
This series just keeps getting better. Emerson and her boys and going through soo many trials and misfortunes. Some new secrets come to life and Emerson finally has the courage to discuss things that have happened to her. The ending was absolutely brutal.
Back for round seven in Braxton Harbor with our favourite gang, the 82nd Street Vandals. And as usual, I devoured it in one sitting, because when we get a new book to this series I'm so starved for these guys that I don't even pause for breath!
The intricate, exciting and layered plot of the Vandals continues and as always we get right back into the thick of it, I love how Heather revealed some answers as players made more moves on the board, we met anonymous people and put names and faces to them but it actually raised more questions which am itching to work out!
I'm going to say the word 'love' a lot so keep that in mind but I LOVE how Heather dedicates a book to a Vandal, I made a bold statement for book 6 because it was Rome's book, the literal love of my life, and I stick by saying that was my favourite purely for that fact, but Liam, Liam, Liam. My god the star of book 7. What a pleasure it was to get to spend more time with you, seeing you become more vulnerable, playful and protective, I love how he thinks and cares for Hellspawn, his Twin and his brothers. We saw such a different side to him and I was so here for it.
My feelings have not faltered when it comes to the Vandals since book 1 to be fully honest. Freddie is so precious I could weep. So similar to his boo-boo in many ways. When he's vulnerable and shows how much what happened to Emersyn affects him, saying how much he hated that it happened to her, and all Kellan thought was "I hate that it happened to both of you" because Kellan is so damn nurturing, patient and protective.
I really felt this sense of nostalgia in this book, even though it's not the end of the series I just found myself reminiscing about how everything has changed from book one. How Emersyn has grown in herself and how the guys have grown too and all become someone she needs for many reasons. Jasper is her forever protector, Kellan is her confidant, Vaughn is her big Teddy bear and makes her feel heard and safe, Freddie is the one she plays with, Rome is her quiet support system and all round bodyguard and the one who knows details about her that nobody else ever would, Liam is the one who gives her strength. Doc is her healer and Milo is her blood.
There was so much I got from this book that I was waiting for, that alone time with Kellan, Emersyn opening up to the last few guys, her and Doc making progress (FINALLY), Jasper and Liam airing the skeletons in their closet and finally connecting again, and of course there is so much im dying to see and know. That date with Kellan, more and more twin sandwiches 🤤 who the "king" really is, answers to all these plots going on which are still such a mystery, and I say it every time but dammit I NEED Freddie to be happy, well, tactile and in the same position as the rest of them. Everything feel off kilter when Freddie isn't OK and leaves 😭
That cliffhanger was the worst of them so far in all seven books. Heather, babe, the AUDACITY! 😭 but I'm holding on hope that she will make this right because I refuse to live my life in fear whilst I wait for book 8!
Oh and if I've ever mentioned it before, this truly is one or the greatest RH series I've ever indulged in, I'll forever be obsessed with these Vandals and everything they bring to the table!
Liam has always had big plans for his life. He wanted money and power to ensure those he cared about had better lives. He wanted to keep them safe, and if sacrifices were needed, he would gladly give them. He has only ever wanted to be selfish twice in his life. He wanted to be adopted, and he wants Emersyn. When he saw that Rome wanted her, he tried to stay away. Turned out, sharing her was a much better option. Emersyn is theirs. They are hers. She is a Vandal. And while she may not be a Princess, she may well be a Royal.
This is not going to go over well with many readers but this book was a bit of a letdown for me. It was wonderfully written but for me, it missed the mark. I had looked forward to Liam's story. I wanted to understand how he could love his brother so fiercely yet leave him to be adopted. How he could be so loyal to his friends yet leave the Vandals for the Royals. Yes, yes, I know what we have been told; I was just hoping for more, deeper reasoning underneath the surface explanations. It was simply for power and money. His motives might have been to protect those he cared for but only partly. Despite his belief that he sacrificed for his brothers, I felt he was more selfish than anything. I read every other book and fell more for the guy after getting to know them but not this one. I didn't feel Liam had enough of a story. I already admired his love for his brother and knew his passion for Emersyn. There were no revelations. Emersyn is continuing to develop into the woman she was always meant to be. Additionally, I respect the attention paid to mental health in this book. Working in a BH setting, the struggles faced were written with care and truth. There were no shortcuts, and I appreciate the author allowing the characters to express their pain. The journey towards mental health takes commitment and hard work and is never a straight path. This was portrayed beautifully.
The book was difficult for me to disappear inside until the final third. I think I'm starting to be weary of the pace. I want more forward momentum. There are such fantastic dangers on multiple fronts, there are intriguing mysteries, and there are scores to be settled but it seems to be getting mired in the setup. I know I sound like I am contradicting myself. I want the characters to be true and not rush to recovery, yet I want more to happen. I want the Vandals to get the upper hand or at least catch a break. I want a win on at least one front, not defeats on every front. And although expected, that ending is definitely not what I wanted. I'm beginning to think this author wants to break me. I'm lucky I didn't break my Kindle! I think they caught some lucky breaks among the misfortune there at the end. I'm counting on them.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.
The fierce twin. The dark brother. The wild one. I don't give a crap about labels. I never have. Not when it comes to me. But stay away from my brothers. All for them. I've scarified a lot for them, and I'm more than willing to give a lot more. If my blood, sweat, tears, and life were needed, I'd give it all up. Every damn drop. For my brothers, there was nothing I wouldn't lose. Until her. Reckless, ferocious, and seemingly born to match me in temperament and spirit, Hellspawn is not the fragile flower they all think she is. I don't think she ever has been. She will not be left behind, she will not hide, and she will not take the crap that life has been throwing at her. She saved our lives, defended us, fought for us, and sacrificed herself for us. I have no questions about what she would do if they tried to leverage us against her. this is why I won't allow anyone to put her to that test. She has nothing to prove to us. She's a Vandal. My name is Liam O'Connell. Hellspawn is mine. Emersyn is ours. We aren't going to wait around for the next attack. No, we're taking the fight right to them.
This is a dark romance. You will want to heed the warnings in the beginning of the book. It will contain triggers for some readers. I don't even know how to review this book. I feel like it would be so easy to give a spoiler. If you have read Dangerous Renegade then you know who Emersyn is and she is now back. This book picks up on that time line after Dangerous Renegade. I loved that in this book we got to know a lot more about Liam's backstory and oh what a back story it is. Liam and Emersyn are just perfection together and I loved every second of them. There is a lot that goes on in this book and a lot of the backstory that will show you why Emersyn and Liam work so well. You have to go through the painful to get to the light and I loved how that was shown so clearly in this book. However this is a series and I have to warn you that you don't wanna throw your kindle at the end of the book. Its a dozy of a shocking ending and I can not wait to have the next book in my hands.
O.M.G.!! I can’t believe the ending!! I had to go back several times to read it. I need Reckless Thief to be here now now April (as it is saying on Amazon)! I admit that I had to wait two days before writing my review as the ending blew me away. Just brace for it!! Loved catching up with Emersyn (Kellen’s Sparrow, Liam’s Hellspawn, Rome’s Starling, Freddie’s Boo Boo, Doc’s Little Bit, Vaughn’s Dove, Jasper’s Swan, Milo’s Ivy and much to the guys annoyance Bodhi’s PPG…I know she has more names that anyone one person should lmao) and the Vandals!! I love learning more about the guys and how Emerson’s relationships are evolving. Also, loved slowly learning more about the mysterious “King”. Part of me thinks contrary to evidence presented it is Emersyn’s Uncle Bradley. I am sure he is smart enough to have someone impersonate him since he seems to be one step ahead of Emersyn and the Vandals. I might have to visit the Spoiler Room as I have a theory on it but won’t bring it up here as I really don’t want to spoil Merciless Spy for anyone. If you have not read the first 6 books then I highly suggest you go to book 1, Savage Vandal. I love reading books more than once and I am thinking of going back Savage Vandal. Heather Long, author, is one of my favorite authors as she has books that I just love to get lost in. Heather has the talent of drawing you in and keeping you hooked from the very first page of the very first book in a series until the very last epilogue of the last book in a series. Her characters are down to earth, original, and have past that builds them up to show their characteristics and personalities. I loved the way Heather set up the 82 Street Vandals (we get to know more about each of them in one of the books along the way. Doc’s will be Reckless Thief and I am hoping Milo will be the crossover (🤞🏽🙏🏼🤞🏽🙏🏼🤞🏽) to switch over to Lainey, Adam, Ezra, and Milo!! Not to mention how very spicy hot her books are!! I highly recommend Merciless Spy(Only after reading the first six books in the series), 82 Street Vandals, and Heather Long as an author. If looking for a new adult, bully, RH series check out Heather’s Untouchable series!! It is a complete series and readers will love it. Happy Reading!!
Merciless Spy is the seventh book in the 82 Street Vandals series and they absolutely must be read in order. Also, do yourself a favor and read the foreward in the beginning of the book. It has a recap from the last book just to refresh your memory.
Now onto this book. If I could leave this review at what the actual fuck just happened I would. That about sums up the whole thing. I have been with Heather for a while now. I've read every single RH book that she has put out. Not once have I ever really been on #teammadatheather. UNTIL NOW. When I finished reading this book last night I was so....mad, distraught, speechless, irate, sad, shocked. I don't even know, there were so many emotions going through me. I think I'm going to have to go back and read the last chapter again. I'm still processing all the shit she threw at us. I should have known. The book was just flowing so well. Everyone was happy. So many good things were happening. Liam was so freaking sweet. There was that moment with Liam, Rome and Em. It was just perfection. It was the quiet before the storm. The major fucking storm that just destroyed everything!!!!!!!!! Ugh!
Now there were some other high point moments in the book. Good and bad. Freddie is still my favorite and he struggled a little in this book. I just love him so much and I want to bundle him up and protect him forever. All the other guys had shining moments during this as well. They are all growing and maturing and it's so great to see. As far as side characters, I was really excited when Bhodi showed up but I'm not so sure about him anymore. The way he pushes the guys buttons just to do it, I just don't know. We shall see. And Ezra, I really like him. That increased in this book. Then there is Em's mom. Does she or doesn't she know what happened? Will they be able to get her out? So, yes, this book was full of moments.
With all of that though, then we have that seriously fucked up ending. I don't know if I will ever recover from that. I have never wanted, no NEEDED, the next book in a series so bad in my life.
HOLY CRAP HOLY CRAP HOLY CRAP! If you have not started this series this is your immediate PSA to do that NOW! This series has me in an absolute chokehold. If you like dark romance, reverse harems, found family, protective MMCs, a strong FMC with a traumatic past, and you are ready for a series with an epic emotional rollercoaster, this is for you!
I am writing this review about 5 minutes after finishing the book, it took me that long to get a hand on myself after the EPIC CLIFFHANGER Heather left us with, but before I start from the end, let me go back to the beginning. In Dangerous Renegade, the last book, we spent a lot of the time building the “family” and rebuilding the club house. Quite a bit of happiness for Emersyn and the guys, which they deserve after some of the stuff they’ve been through! We were left on a small cliffy, but nothing major. When we kick off this book there are a lot of balls in the air for our Vandals, and a lot of balls to manage for Emersyn as well 😉 Boy oh boy the spice was nice — thank you for the Cleary sandwich and the O’Connell mansion marathon 🥵😮💨
Some of our characters underwent significant personal growth in this book - most notably Emersyn moving past some of her trauma in big ways, and Freddie making strides with his own demons. We made some interesting strides on the King front, but we also had some notable absences: Adam and his captors and Emersyn’s Uncle. I have proposed and discarded a number of theories by this stage in the series and I honestly don’t know what to expect as far as a connection, if any, between the multiple enemies that have it out for our Vandals.
Now back to where I started. THE CLIFFHANGER OF ALL MOTHER FREAKING CLIFFHANGERS! The guys knew something was up, I knew something was up, and sure enough something was up! My heart was in my throat as a threat was leveled and events played out. How will our precious Vandals fare? We’ll find out on April 11th when Reckless Thief releases! I’ll be counting down the days!
Tropes: Reverse harem, Dark new adult gang romance, crime
Triggers: Violence, mention of sexual abuse and addiction, assault
Standalone or series?: Series
POV: Multiple
Wow, holy moly. This book. While it doesn’t have much hard-core action throughout the story many things do happen, and you do know that at some point the other shoe is going to drop. Then we suddenly get the biggest most merciless cliffhanger in the story yet. The story continues its emotional journey. Some people have started taking steps to better themselves and their life, some relationships are just starting to get defined and finally moving forward, while some relationships just keep evolving.
We do get some answers to some of our questions like who the King is, but that only brings up more questions that need to be addressed. It just shows that even though there are only two books left there is still many secrets left to be uncovered and revealed. Emersyn is getting more and more comfortable being her own person, while trusting and opening up more to all the guys with her darkest secrets.
While I do love, love, love this series and characters I do still feel the series could have been shorter. Yes there is a lot of characters, background stories and trauma and that’s why I haven’t been vocal about it, but I also think there is a lot unnecessary filler to the story that could have been cut out and too much drama with Milo and Lainey, which I felt like was not interesting and too soon considering Milo and Ivy barely have had time to know each other when that whole drama started. So I’m glad Milo and Lainey’s relationship weren’t a focus point in the book.
This seventh instalment of the story has steam, emotional and painful moments, but also happy and laughable ones. But that’s what I have come to expect from these savage Vandals. Even though the cliffhanger is a brutal one, I know all the Vandals are going to come back stronger than ever, ready to fight and enforce justice towards those who have wronged them.
Nine books is a lot and so I am only going to write a series review not an individual review for each book. The series started out with 5 stars but then it got boring and did not have enough interesting things to keep my attention. Books 6-8 can be completely skipped. I read them but after reading them I felt they could have been skipped.
There were a lot of things that happened thought the series that were not needed the most annoying one being her mother. Throwing her mother's rescue and recovery in the book was way too much I didn't care enough about the mother for it to be worth reading. Also when I read RH I expect each guy to be completely unique and distinct and have different personalities so they don’t blend together. In this series, the guys all blend together. There was only one of her guys who stood out and had a completely unique personality and he became by far hands down my favorite guy Rome. I also loved how unique Freddy was but I considered him a friend in books 1-5 so I don’t consider him one of her guys. The biggest problem red flag with this aeries was how long it took the guys to realize who her abuser was and for them to take nine books before they get rid of her abuser is way way way too long. When he was not gone and still a problem in book four I lost a lot of respect for the guys.
I would give books 2-5 and book 9 ⭐️5 stars. But when you add in all the filler things that happened thought the series that were not needed it becomes a 3-star series that being said ai am a sucker for unique nicknames and tattoos. Both of which the book has lots of so I am putting the series at ⭐️ 4 stars. The reason it gained a star was because each guy had a truly unique and beautiful different nickname for the heroine. The other reason for gaining a star was how much detail the author goes into describing each of Romes's art pieces and the guys and the heroine's tattoos. The author did a great job painting the picture in my mind so I can give the series ⭐️4 stars!
If you haven't read the other books in this series, STOP! Go back and read them, this book starts where the last one left off.
Emersyn Sharpe has grown in these books. She has a bunch of nicknames that are specific to each of the guys. This book while somewhat centered on Liam and his 'Hellspawn', it also delves into all of them and their relationship with her.
There are important milestones here, for Emersyn overcoming the damage her uncle has done to her is cathartic. She's so much more than she was, she's stronger both physically and mentally. The hurdles she's overcome so far make us love her even more.
The guys, well, I've loved all of them from the start and in this one we get to see how they are adjusting the way they think of Emersyn. They are still a bit overprotective, but not to the extreme they were. They recognize that through their efforts and her determination she is far more capable of protecting not only herself but them as well.
In the last book, Emersyn and Rome were taken when Liam and Rome had a surprise planned for her. In this book that surprise reaches fruition.
Rome and Liam in the silks with her, was breathtaking to read. I felt the jubilation from Emersyn, she needed to know she could fly again.
No, I am not forgetting the cliffhanger of the last book, and getting Emersyn's mother out of that facility is something that will be accomplished. There's also the 'King's' demand to meet Emersyn, that will be addressed. That doesn't give the satisfaction I thought it would.
Lots of sizzling heat in this book, as well as a relationship that gets a challenge. Miss Stephanie gets an awesome moment in this book, and we also meet Liam's parents.
Then of course is the ending that even now I am still processing. I really need the next book as soon as possible. This suspense is killing me...
Send help ❤️🖤 *reverse harem *contemporary *multi-pov *established harem (7) *mid burn 🔥 *gangs *abused FMC *📕7/9 Wow, well I’m just getting over the trauma of that ending to write this review!! This book picks up immediately after the reveal concerning Little Bits mother and what to do to retrieve her, but this throws up complicated feelings for Dove 😢 There’s all the emotions in this one as Swan/Hellspawn reveals her past to the remaining members of her harem, and yes it’s the two most volatile she’s left for last…but honestly they really come through for her and they fight their natural instincts to really put her first! 😍 After the real family building in the last book it continues in this one, they get to build on their relationships with different dates but also come together as a uni - the birthday party scene is just and BooBoo really gets to see the connection her boys have 🥰🥰 and we’ll throughout this book they are rally teaching Starling some new tricks and more about herself 🔥🔥🔥 what’s more is situations really force Milo and Ivy to talk and develop a deeper sibling bond 🥰 And they’re going to need those bonds with things closing in around them…things are heating up with them the Royals and whilst the vandals are doing all they can to protect her, Sparrows stubborn nature means she wants to be there for them as well! What’s more although her uncle seems to have disappeared he’s certainly making his presence known 😫😫😫 And honestly that ending, seriously prepare yourselves!!
WHAT THE FUDGE HAVE I JUST READ?!?! If you haven’t guessed already then the cliffhanger is Brutal. You will be crying maybe, you will be pulling out your hair and you know that moment when you can see something happening and you’re holding your breath… yeah I’m still holding it. My heart is aching, my blood pressure sky high, and my mind is racing. I am desperate already for the next book. Each ending hurts my heart and has my BP skyrocketing more and more that my nerves are gone already for the next one! Cannot wait for it. Throughout this series, it’s been an emotional rollercoaster and yes this book has had me feeling all kinds, but I loved the moments between them. I loved the bravery Emersyn shows and seeing the trust she has in the guys (I have been waiting for that moment with abated breath… so hot, get your batteries ready, and yet heartwarmingly good). I love the moments between the guys, whether it’s as a group dynamic or even mending bridges that were broken a while ago. I’m still struggling to pick a favourite although the twins are just something special. I’m looking forward to seeing a specific relationship develop after such a passionate moment. I am here for more, praying that they find their way together. This world is amazing and the author’s writing is absolutely phenomenal especially how she’s writes such characters with complex dynamics between them. This series is brilliant, and if you haven’t read it, then if I could recommend one book to RH/WhyChoose lovers then this would be it. Incredible!
I don’t know where even to start with this book review. I guess to start I love this series and I LOVE all of the Vandals. This book was such a great 7th addition to the story. We get things that we needed. Reading it was like being wrapped up into a cozy blanket comforted on a thundery rainy day, there might have been tough moments but you felt that comfort and then boom someone, yes that’s you Heather, ripped the blanket away and push us into the rain. But it’s okay, everything is okay, and will be okay. I am sooo pumped for the next book. Even though some great wonderful sandwiches and conversations happened and the intense ending happened we have two books left of the series and I know it’s just going to be so good and so worth all of it.
I know my review is vague but to sum it up I LOVED Merciless Spy, just like Ive loved all of the books before it and I can not wait for the rest.
6 stars out of 5. Because it was just such a good read. - Well written - page tuner found myself slowing down to savor it. - Can’t wait for more - Storyline progressed gave me what I needed and more
Everything that happened in this book was needed. The slow moments, the intimate , the set backs, the talks, all of it was needed to move us forward to what we were set up for at the ending and for things that have been at play the whole series so far. I am so thankful I picked up this series and can not wait to read the next book.
I'm going to start off by saying OH MY GAWD!!!!! This was the wildest ride yet. So much happens. The feels, the shock. I was not at all prepared.
Merciless Spy is the 7th book in the Vandals series and I think it has the most world building and character development to date. This time we got a further glimpse into Liam's other world. And I'm loving the natural progression and the dynamics between Emersyn and her guys, it's beautiful to see. I fell in love with them all a little more after this one.
Milo seemed off a little more than usual and I think it mostly boils down to a certain snarky bestie. Lainey is just the best. And I love his nickname for her, too cute!!!! Everything surrounding them has been quite vague so I'm really hoping that is an indication we might get their story one day. I'm here for it.
After 6 books, we finally got introduced to the King and I still have no idea who he is. Confused? Yep, me too. And I am on the edge of my seat wondering what it is that mama Sharpe knows. I now have more questions than ever before. And don't even get me started on that ending!!!! Well done Heather Long, for creating absolute beautiful chaos. I was left reeling. Waiting ever so (im)patiently for April.
I really didn’t see how I could love this series more, but well-done Heather, book 7 is just as amazing as book 1!
This book was everything I knew it would be and more. Being book 7 for the series, we are at a place where we get to see Emersyn and the guys build their relationships a bit deeper. Which means this book had me in my feelings a lot!! I loved everything about that though, to hear some of the truths get revealed, the struggles, and fears spoken of. This series really does embrace a lot of different perspectives about recovery, be it from abuse or substance. The way Emersyn & Guys have grown to be the family they needed, is everything I love about ‘found family’ relationships. Let’s not forget about the sensual & passionate side of these relationships…I mean Rome, Liam, Kellan, Vaughn, Doc and yes even Freddie brings something to the table that make this group a perfect WhyChoose. But with true Heather Long style, I’m finishing this book thinking this is going to smooth…yeah welcome to the end of all ends!!! Dang, do I love a good cliffie, but this cliffie left a mark. 😱🥺🤯! If you haven’t started this series, what are you waiting for? If you have, buckle up it’s going to get bumpy.