From Goodreads: Devastated by the loss of his mother, Chase is trying to balance the life he’s been left with, a family he’s still getting to know, and power he never thought he’d have. He doesn’t understand why the Goddess has named him the Protector and granted him two gifts: the Mark, a tattoo that now covers his back, and the ring. But between getting interrogated by the Circle and psychic attacks from Riley, the Mark is the least of his concern. There’s a demon inside Rayna that’s fighting to be released, and it’s not her inner witch. It’s something else–a monster threatening to tear her apart.

As Chase struggles to control his magic, his enemies are closing in. Everyone has staked a claim on his ring, and destroying it may be his only chance to stop Riley. But Chase must decide if stopping him is worth risking the lives of everyone he cares about, or if protecting the ring will be enough to save his world.

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This novel hits the ground running and doesn’t let up until the very end.  Packed with lots of action and another amazing storyline, Merrick’s sequel to Exiled is a thrill ride for readers of all ages.  I was sucked into the pages as Merrick continues the story of Chase, Rayna, and Willy as they attempt to adjust to the many changes around them.  Picking up a few weeks after the conclusion of the first novel, Merrick drops the reader right into the middle of the action as Rayna fights for her life against a demon inside her.  I was highly intrigued by this development, and as I absolutely love her character, couldn’t help but sit on pins and needles as the scene panned out.

And, on pins and needles is where I sat for the entirety of the novel.  Merrick is a fabulous writer, able to grip the reader in such a way that it’s impossible to set his books down.  His characterization, storyline, and fantastical situations really made me feel like I was there with the characters, fighting alongside them; it’s rare that characters can touch me in such a way, but I really feel a close bond to them.  Their struggles and triumphs are extremely real, and I loved watching them all grow, especially Chase as he struggles with his intense anger over the death of his mother, his father’s betrayal, and anyone else who gets in his way.  Rayna and Willy also have their own struggles to contend with as the story progresses, and watching all the characters grow, unite, and intensify was a real treat.  I also thoroughly enjoyed introduction of the new magical elements, the cat and wolf packs, and the all around intensity of the novel itself; Merrick’s creativity and imagination makes for an amazing read, and I highly suggest picking up this series! Five stars.

To read how M.R. Merrick came up with this phenomenal series, click HERE.

Exiled (#1)

Shift (#2)

Release (#3)

Endure (#4)

I received an ARC of this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review.