Release (The Protector, #3)

Dec 11, 2012 Annabelle Marie Veronica rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: paranormal, fantasy, magic, elementals, arcs, e-books, romance, i-love-a-guy-in-this-book, best-books-in-the-world, books-that-made-me-cry, cried-my-freaking-eyes-out, favorites, gorgeous-cover

*****FINAL RATING: 4.80 STARS*****

CATCHALL
Release was, without a doubt, one of my most favorite recent reads. I adored it. There's such wonderful and thrilling development in this installment, and the action is enough to give any adrenaline junkie a high. Seriously. It has a little bit of everything. Some romance, major battles, and and some serious hurdles to overcome. Essentially, I want to crawl into this book and live there. Hypothetically, because although it is awesome to read about magic...more

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Jan 06, 2013 Makayla rated it 2 of 5 stars

Well, this is definitely not a trilogy.

In this third installment (of there definitely better be more series), Chase finds himself dealing with the issue that is Riley, and his journey to find the soul pieces. Of course, much more than that occurs.

I am so incredibly happy with how the characters have developed. Tiki and Vincent in particular - Merrick did a fantastic job making these characters project off the page and into my life. But you see, I may have started to smile every time Tiki stood u...more Well, this is definitely not a trilogy.

In this third installment (of there definitely better be more series), Chase finds himself dealing with the issue that is Riley, and his journey to find the soul pieces. Of course, much more than that occurs.

I am so incredibly happy with how the characters have developed. Tiki and Vincent in particular - Merrick did a fantastic job making these characters project off the page and into my life. But you see, I may have started to smile every time Tiki stood up for Vincent and said, “awww” in my head. Which means, in fangirl language,

Yeah. That happened. Maybe it’s all in my head, but it’s all beautiful in my head. Needless to say, once you start wild shippings, you know something special is going on.

Have I mentioned Merrick’s humor? Well, the moments of sarcastic angst had me smirking all over the place. Until something major happened. Morgana faces for this book.

That being said, I had some major issues with the pacing. Specifically, this book involved more than one major action scenes. As a result, I can’t even remember how many, or specific ones because it’s all jumbled in my head. And they are described in great detail. If you’re into that thing, great. But I honestly got bored after reading Chase struggle with some demon that you know he’ll defeat somehow or other with a fantastic power play for the tenth time. I’d skim a lot of those, without losing any of the plot. I think the books pacing suffered a lot from those, and it’s a difficult to handle without cutting those intricate details (and I could understand why some wouldn’t want to).

Which leads me to the conclusion that this book was too long. For the first half, the pacing was perfect. But then more and more obstacles kept popping up - then were defeated. Until something else huge popped up - to be defeated also. It finally got to the point where I was asking if we were ever going to actually see something big happen. So much time was devoted to developing these other, smaller obstructions, that I believe a lot of the effect of the finale confrontation, that had been built up the entire book, was taken away. Anticipation is good, but there comes a point where the wait spoils the meal.

It’s unfortunate because I really enjoyed all else about the book, but the pacing ultimately through me for a looper that spoiled the rest. If you’re one to enjoy great sequence of adventures, you probably won’t have a problem! But I read for the moments of Chase’s great insight, and the sweet moments between Tiki and Vincent, as well as the pleasure of watching characters deal with hurtles - when a balance has been struck between the three. And for me, the pacing of the plot outraced all else.(less)

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Apr 09, 2013 Evie rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 2013-tbr-pile, action, adventure, best-thing-ever, canadian-author-of-awesomeness, freaking-awesome, fantasy, mind-blowing, pure-awesomeness

Completely mind-blowing.

As this is the third instalment in a planned four book series, I won't be discussing the plot in detail. I don't want to spoil this awesome story for anyone, it's something you need to experience for yourself. I will, however, tell you just how extremely entertaining, action-packed and thoroughly jaw-dropping it was! You couldn't pry this book from my hands, it was THAT good. Merrick expanded the already rich and complex world even more, exploring different dimensions,...more Completely mind-blowing.

As this is the third instalment in a planned four book series, I won't be discussing the plot in detail. I don't want to spoil this awesome story for anyone, it's something you need to experience for yourself. I will, however, tell you just how extremely entertaining, action-packed and thoroughly jaw-dropping it was! You couldn't pry this book from my hands, it was THAT good. Merrick expanded the already rich and complex world even more, exploring different dimensions, adding new interesting characters and introducing us to new legends, stories from the past and information crucial to understanding and fully appreciating the story. However, while abundant in otherworldly creatures, magic, eye-popping fight scenes and vividly described settings, Release is still comprehensive and easy to follow.

Release blends non-stop action and a journey to discovering yourself into one fascinating story, that is just as entertaining and breathtaking as it is moving and inspiring. If I was to describe this book using just one world, I'd pick EPIC. The writing is compelling and addictive, the characters are three-dimensional and truly unique, the plot twists are many and they are often shocking. And the humor! I just love the humor in these books! The dialogues are super fun to read, full of witty observations and biting remarks. And the relationship dynamics between all the characters are intensely enjoyable.

Like I said before, both the plot line and the settings are top notch, ultimately though, it's the awesome characters that make the story for me. They are all realistically drawn and depicted in a way that makes you connect with them instantly. Each character has a distinct personality and possesses some sort of unique ability (supernatural or not). They're vivid, colorful, energetic, often snarky and badass, but they're also very human. Both Chase and Rayna are tough and fierce, but they're also emotional, vulnerable and soft on the inside. They try their best to do the right thing, but they don't always know what "the right thing" is, they make mistakes, they doubt themselves. They fall and then they get back up, dust themselves off and try even harder. That's what makes them so awesome. That's what makes me love them so much. They're not perfect. No one is perfect. But they fight for what they believe in, even if it's hard. Even when it hurts. Even if you don't know who you can trust and who your real enemy is.

I thought that Chase grew a lot as a character in Release. He had to learn to control his abilities, which basically meant working on his temper and controlling his emotions. He had to search for the soul pieces, but he also had to do a lot of soul-searching within himself. He was an awesome character to follow in Exiled and Shift, but he was still very immature then. In Release he changes a lot, smartens up and learns a lot about himself. I loved that!

As much as I loved Chase, Rayna, Willy and Tiki, I must admit I absolutely adored Willy's grandmother! What a fantastic, sharp-tongued, kick-ass character she is!

All in all, if you're not familiar with The Protector series yet, you have some serious catching up to do. It's such a great series, filled with creative ideas, breathtaking action sequences and characters you'll quickly grow attached to. If you adore fantasy genre and enjoy stories that are complex, awesomely imagined and thoroughly entertaining - this is the series for you!

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Jan 17, 2013 Bonnie at A Backwards Story added it

Shelves: 2012, fantasy, blog-tour

Originality continues to abound, and readers never quite know what to expect in The Protector Series amongst all the twists and turns we're pulled into. Like with SHIFT, RELEASE dives ever deeper into the world of M.R. Merrick. Elements of the previous two books pull together to create both answers and new puzzles to solve. The mythological aspect goes deeper still, and we learn so much back story about the gods and what rules them.

This time around, Chase is finally learning to harness the power...more Originality continues to abound, and readers never quite know what to expect in The Protector Series amongst all the twists and turns we're pulled into. Like with SHIFT, RELEASE dives ever deeper into the world of M.R. Merrick. Elements of the previous two books pull together to create both answers and new puzzles to solve. The mythological aspect goes deeper still, and we learn so much back story about the gods and what rules them.

This time around, Chase is finally learning to harness the powerful elemental magic he's discovered over the past two books. At the same time, having so much power is destroying it. He's fighting himself even as he attempts to save those around him. Quests abound as Chase and his battle-ready group seek the soul pieces that can prevent Ithreal from rising, especially now that the ring has fallen into enemy hands. Rayna's destiny is more fully revealed, leaving behind startling answers and creating new ways for her to help their cause. By the end of RELEASE, Chase has also learned more about his destiny, and will follow the path set before him in the final book in the series, due out later this year. We even get more insight into our villains this time around, seeing why Chase's father Riley first set out to release Ithreal, as well as more questions about the true motives of the Dark Brothers.

Chase has come so far since EXILED. He now allies himself with those he once swore to kill, and even considers many of them to be his closest friends. He's more desperate than ever to stop his father from raising Ithreal despite the fact that the powers given to him for being the Protector and bearing the Mark are beginning to tear him apart. He will do anything to keep those he cares about from harm, and carries the weight of the deceased around on his shoulders, thinking himself responsible for all that has gone wrong on his father's power-hungry journey. Characters that, up until now, weren't fully explored have their stories unfurl as more power-struggles loom, and we're introduced to even more fantastic creatures as we world-hop to new dimensions alongside the characters. There is, however, very little resolution this late in the series, so expect a full-scale battle in the final showdown. (less)

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Jan 12, 2013 Ellen rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: arc, blog-tours

M.R. Merrick delivers again in this third installment of The Protector Series. Picking up where Shift left off, we once again catch up with Chase, Rayna, and their motley crew as they continue to search for the soul pieces in order to stop Riley's evil plans. As the Protector, Chase possess the ability to wield all the elements, fire, water, wind, and air, and they are very powerful. So powerful in fact, that Chase's body isn't able to control them, even to the point of ripping him apart at time...more M.R. Merrick delivers again in this third installment of The Protector Series. Picking up where Shift left off, we once again catch up with Chase, Rayna, and their motley crew as they continue to search for the soul pieces in order to stop Riley's evil plans. As the Protector, Chase possess the ability to wield all the elements, fire, water, wind, and air, and they are very powerful. So powerful in fact, that Chase's body isn't able to control them, even to the point of ripping him apart at times. Together with his friends, Rayna, Tiki, Willy, and Marcus, and his unfriendly ally Vincent, among others, they venture into strange and dangerous dimensions in the underworld, facing some of the deadliest creatures imaginable, barely escaping with their lives, and enduring astonishing amounts of torture and pain. Will their efforts be enough to stop Riley before it's to late? Will the loss of someone else very close to Chase be the catalyst that pushes him over the edge?

It has been interesting to see Chase's evolution throughout the series. Though still headstrong and strong willed, he is much more mature, wiser, and thinks about things before diving in blindly. He is falling into his role as leader and protector nicely, and is beginning to understand what that means as well. He is fiercely loyal to his friends, and with the help of Tiki, understands on a deeper level what it means to keep your oaths, even when you'd rather not. Rayna is beginning to understand and come into the fullness of her power. I liked the developments that took place in Chase and Rayna's relationship, and was so glad they got to share a couple of passionate moments. I hope we see more of that in the next book. We also see Tiki and Willy step forward into more prominent roles in this installment.

The fantasy in Release is taken up a notch as Merrick creates an unbelievable and imaginative world with his words. Release packs a punch with it's action-packed story line, and there is never a dull moment for these characters in thier quest against evil. If you enjoy urban fantasy, then this is a series you most definitely want to check out.
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Jan 07, 2013 Andrea rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: read-in-2012, young-adult-fantasy

Well, that was a pretty intense ride! I have to admit, my reading preferences have changed dramatically in the past few months, and I don't read a fraction of the fantasy books that I used to. I also tend to sometimes have problems with "middle" books in a series, because they often feel to be "filler" books while waiting for the finale. Having said this, I will say that I was a bit worried about starting Release. I really enjoyed Exiled and Shift, loved the fantastic world Merrick created. Woul...more Well, that was a pretty intense ride! I have to admit, my reading preferences have changed dramatically in the past few months, and I don't read a fraction of the fantasy books that I used to. I also tend to sometimes have problems with "middle" books in a series, because they often feel to be "filler" books while waiting for the finale. Having said this, I will say that I was a bit worried about starting Release. I really enjoyed Exiled and Shift, loved the fantastic world Merrick created. Would the magic still be there, for me?

It was. It did take me a while to get back into the groove, though. Chase, Rayna, Willy and the gang were all a bit lost, scrambling to find a way to fight back against Riley and the evil power he holds. Chase is understandably confused and angry. And while I found him to initially be abrasive, I got it. Every time the poor kid seems to gain a foothold, something happens that makes him question his ability and his judgment. But, Chase does experience a lot of character growth throughout Release, and for that I am proud. I'm curious, nervous, and anxious to learn where this self-reflection leads him going forward. His growing, frustrating relationship with Rayna is where I enjoy Chase the most. I guess that's because, though Chase is a powerful figure with a lot of responsibility on his shoulders...he's also a guy who is falling for a crazy-awesome girl. That in itself is a potential whirlwind of emotions and problems. Plus, it's fun to see "Territorial Rayna"!

What made me the happiest about Release was that several secondary characters were able to step forward, take a larger role in the story, and truly shine. Vincent, for one, plays a larger role. He's on the defense and needs help from those he's hurt in the past. I still don't fully trust him, am not sure that I ever will, but for some reason I sort of like the creep. My favorite character in the Protector series is Tiki. He's always been this fun, slightly odd guy (?) that I've giggled at, but didn't know a lot about. In Release, we get to learn about his tragic, brutal past, and more about his kind nature. I fell even more in awe of this wonderful character.

Release was crazy. I'm in awe of the world that Merrick has built. He did an excellent job of creating a vivid, descriptive visualization of the world the characters inhabit. The story was full of violence, revelations, intense emotional standoffs, and a tragically sad ending. Seriously, I did not see that coming and it makes me want to say "Merrick! What the hell, man?!" It was shocking, and most importantly, did the job of making the reading want more. I have to find out if *that* really happened.

If YA Urban Fantasy is your thing, or you just want to try it out, the Protector Series is a great place to start.(less)

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Jan 02, 2013 Kristin (Blood,Sweat, and Books) rated it 5 of 5 stars

Review:

Having read all three books in close succession it really made me appreciate how absolutely brilliant this series truly is. Release was incredible, I wish I had finished the book before this year as it easily would of made my list of Favorites. Yeah, it was just that damn good.

First off, Chase oh my gosh I can not even put into words how much I love this character. Chase has matured so much over the past three books and yet I still feel that his character is evolving and changing leaving...more

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Dec 27, 2012 Christina rated it 5 of 5 stars

M.R. Merrick is becoming one if my favorite people! Release was a page turner from start to finish.....and at the finish were shocked tears!!!
Chase and the Gang are still trying to end Riley, figure out Chases powers, ya there's more, and keep everyone safe!
He takes you on this wild ride with things happening everywhere. Chase seems to be running ragged and he and Rayna can't seem to catch a long enough make out break! (Hehe I want that part)
Vincent is having issue with his mom and wants Chase...more

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Dec 23, 2012 Dani Morales rated it 5 of 5 stars

So I completely was hyped up on Shift that I couldn’t wait to read Release. Usually when I do that I get majorly disappointed…. So not the case here, I was absolutely blown away again. That’s right AGAIN! I also have to say I cried in this book, specifically at the end. If you haven’t read Shift, then stop right here!!

So I love WILLY, he keeps getting better and better. He’s developed a tough skin and stands up for what he thinks is right. Since he’s become a wolf, he hasn’t been able to see Ch...more So I completely was hyped up on Shift that I couldn’t wait to read Release. Usually when I do that I get majorly disappointed…. So not the case here, I was absolutely blown away again. That’s right AGAIN! I also have to say I cried in this book, specifically at the end. If you haven’t read Shift, then stop right here!!

So I love WILLY, he keeps getting better and better. He’s developed a tough skin and stands up for what he thinks is right. Since he’s become a wolf, he hasn’t been able to see Chase and Rayna that much but that doesn’t change the fact that they are family and that’s one of the things I love about M.R. Merrick's books. Family is important, blood doesn’t mean everything, it’s the bonds that are formed. Chase, Rayna, Willy, Tiki, and Marcus are a dysfunctional family, but one none the less. They look out for each other which is good considering what they are up to face.

Riley and the Dark Brothers are unrelenting. Chase’s powers are developing faster than they thought possible, sounds good right? Well not everything is always as good as it seems. Sometimes with great power comes a great consequence. Will Chase’s power be the one thing that costs him his family? Why is his powers starting to go haywire? I hoped Chase and Rayne would be able to take their “relationship” further, but with all that was going on that didn’t happen. The attraction is still there and a few kisses may have been executed perfectly J .

TIki is awesome. He’s the one who stands up for Vincent when everyone else didn’t want to. Vincent, sigh, where to begin with him. If there was other circumstance, I might like Vincent, but as we sit now, not so much. Lol. I got a better understanding for him in this book, and the way he cares about his family. However, Vincent comes into trouble with his biological family and seeks Chase’s help. This is why Tiki stands up for him and in turn gets Chase to do the same.

The end will leave you shocked and saying, “Oh.My.God what the hell just happened?!” Then you’re going to cry, well I started to cry a little before then. I swear I did and I tweeted M.R. Merrick's as soon as I finished saying he made me cry. I love this series and can’t wait for the next book and whatever book M.R. Merrick's rights next. He has definitely made me a fan of his. It’s so easy to get swept up in the worlds he creates. Their scary beautiful and the creatures are terrifying but amazing at the same time. You can't put the book down once you've started, it's almost physically impossible. Wonderful Job M.R. Merrick's! I cannot be happier reading one of your books, seriously, you've made me change my whole opinion on male writiers. I have to say you've set the standard extremely high!(less)

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Dec 19, 2012 ReadingDiva rated it 5 of 5 stars

*** Originally posted @ ReadingDiva's Blog - Rating 5 of 5

REVIEW: I could use many words to describe The Protector Series, but only one does it justice…EPIC. Release is the 3Rd book of The Protector series and it is so far the best book in the series. The plot follows the same awesome path as Exiled & Shift; now that paths have been taken and relationships and partnerships have been formed the time to break evil has come.

Release is perhaps the best of all 3 books. I loved how much drama and...more *** Originally posted @ ReadingDiva's Blog - Rating 5 of 5

REVIEW: I could use many words to describe The Protector Series, but only one does it justice…EPIC. Release is the 3Rd book of The Protector series and it is so far the best book in the series. The plot follows the same awesome path as Exiled & Shift; now that paths have been taken and relationships and partnerships have been formed the time to break evil has come.

Release is perhaps the best of all 3 books. I loved how much drama and action this book has. There are big developments in this book. Chase has become a bad ass hero who pretty much has every power imaginable, Rayna has finally managed her shifting and hasn’t slow down as far as taking care of the bad guys. Marcus as usual is the voice of reason and keeps everyone in check. I could keep going about how much those three characters make this book and the series as a whole awesome. But one has to be fair and give big thumbs up to Willy and Tiki. Both of those characters give the series the necessary balance.

The relationship between Chase & Rayna is complicated. They are quite different but that’s pretty much what brings them together. I will stay away from spoilers about their relationship but I can’t help and share some of my favorite quotes from Vincent. I will add this much. I LOVE CHASE & RAYNA.

Vincent, one of the most powerful vampires on Earth, after some serious developments he has had to make some attitude adjustments. I think his sarcasm and attitude was so well crafted by Merrick that I couldn’t help but like him more and more.

—SPOILER—
(view spoiler)[

“Forgive me if I seem hesitant. I am a born vampire. If you haven’t put two and two together, that means I’ve never set foot in the sunlight unscathed. Can you even fathom this moment for me?”
I stared blankly at him. I didn’t really care what he was going through. We were on a tight timeline. Time on Drakar moved much slower than it did on earth. I couldn’t afford to be away longer than absolutely necessary. Vincent shook his head and released a low growl. “Five hundred years I’ve lurked in the shadows, always cautious and aware of the moment the sun might rise. I’ve never enjoyed what I imagine is the beauty of a sun setting over the ocean. Never known the warmth it can provide on a hot summer’s day. I’ve spent over five centuries in darkness, and now the moment I can walk in the light has come. I apologize if my desire to savor this hinders your patience.”

Merrick creates creditable scenarios and he is able to easily switch scenes from terrorizing to funny. Some scenes had me laughing out loud.

“Fire!” I yelled. “You’re on fire! You’re melting, Vincent, you’re melting!” Vincent didn’t stop. He launched himself back in the forest. Orange and blue leaves shot into the air as he dove into the bushes. Branches shook and leaves fell from their stems as he struggled to pull himself through the other side. I couldn’t contain myself; laughter spilled from my lips and I bent over, gasping for air. I dropped down to one knee, trying to catch my breath, but it was too much. I was laughing so hard I couldn’t breathe. Tiki’s disapproving glare aside, I basked in this moment: the panic that had covered Vincent’s face, the fear that filled his eyes…it had all been worth it.

“Thank you, Mr. Williams. Only you could manage to destroy a moment so beautiful.” “I’m sorry, I couldn’t resist.” I smirked. That wasn’t true; I wasn’t sorry at all. In fact, I’d happily repeat that moment in my mind for the rest of my life. “I’m happy you find amusement in what would otherwise be a life-changing moment for me.”

(hide spoiler)]
—END SPOILER—

Release is an adventure into the unknown. I love the descriptions, the details and the voices of each character. The reader will have no problem transporting themselves to the worlds Merrick has created. I could imagine the colors and the smells. I could picture the creatures and the magic, I am not often left in awe after reading a book but this has left me wanting and craving more.

Merrick is a fantastic author, and he has earned a place among the best in the genre. The Protector Series has everything I enjoy in a paranormal/urban fantasy series. It has tons of action, likeable characters, awesome world building/travels between worlds/kick-ass heroine/hot hero and a great group of secondary characters that bring the necessary spark and balance to the story. Release brings a lot to the table and I couldn’t help but feel sad once it was finished. I love every page of this story, I am sure readers will love it too.

Highly recommended.(less)

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Dec 13, 2012 Tee loves Kyle Jacobson rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012-must-reads, blog-tour-review, dec-2012

Release is the third book in The Protector Series and M.R. Merrick has got the lock down on this series. Man oh man poor Chase is going through so much. He has finally come to terms that his father is evil and wants to destroy the world by letting the demons in. And if that isn't enough he has Riley who is also out to destroy him and keeps attacking him. But Chase is determined not to let this get to him. He watches everyone and everything and the one thing he is sure about is that people are no...more

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Dec 16, 2012 Kayleigh {K-Books} rated it 5 of 5 stars

Wow. M.R Merrick is fast becoming one of my favourite authors of all time. Ever since I got the first book in this series, Exiled, I was completely obsessed with it. Shift was even better and I didn't know how Matthew was going to bear it... but he did. Release was an epic and phenomenal installment to one of my favourite paranormal/fantasy series. I was completely captured right from the first page and I couldn't stop reading until I had finished and found out what happened. It was just incredi...more Wow. M.R Merrick is fast becoming one of my favourite authors of all time. Ever since I got the first book in this series, Exiled, I was completely obsessed with it. Shift was even better and I didn't know how Matthew was going to bear it... but he did. Release was an epic and phenomenal installment to one of my favourite paranormal/fantasy series. I was completely captured right from the first page and I couldn't stop reading until I had finished and found out what happened. It was just incredible.

Chase, Marcus, Rayna and the others are back and preparing for an apocalypse. Not only do they have the threat of The Circle that they have been battling against in the previous 2 books but now Chase's father is on the loose playing God and Chase and the others must stop him. Even if that means journying to the darkest dimensions to find a way. But will everyone make is out alive?

I am just so in love with this series. No words can describe just how good it is. The only way you will find that out is by picking up this incredible series and going on this magical journey yourself. Trust me you will not be disappointed. M.R Merrick is a phenomenal author. One of the best in the YA Paranormal/Fantasy genre in my opinion and I could just read his books again and again and be just as shocked, obsessed and enraptured as the first time I read them. M.R Merrick's writing style is addictive. He pulls you into this phenomenal world right at the start of the first page and he will not let you go until you are done left reeling and begging for more.

Release is without a doubt the best one in the series so far and I am dying for book 4 to find out what will happen next. M.R Merrick's characters are addictive and you just become so attached to them you have to keep reading to find out what happens to them and if anything bad happened you are left with your heart in a million pieces crying... yeah this is what Release did to me. M.R Merrick is a phenomenal writer but also a evil man at times.

If you want a phenomenal, epic, intense roller-coaster ride paranormal series to be consumed by and obsessed over look no furthur. The Protector series is a must-read. It will leave you breathless and begging for more. Release is an epic, intense and heartbreaking installment to the series that left me soul-crushed but it is awesome and one of the best books I have read this year. I need book 4... like right now!
So what are you waiting for? Go pick up this series right now! It's phenomenal.(less)

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Jan 17, 2013 Mandy (I read Indie) Anderson rated it 5 of 5 stars

Merrick!! Don’t know how you do it…but you did it…and with each book the series just gets better and better. All of your characters absolutely exploded (that’s a good thing) in this one and we get so much more of them it seems. Rayna…love her more and would love my girls to grow up just like her. Well, just minus the fur. But really, the girl is fierce, confident, brave and bold. Again, I say…LOVE her. And to mention all the history we learn about Tiki and Vincent and sweet Willy…all pulled toge...more Merrick!! Don’t know how you do it…but you did it…and with each book the series just gets better and better. All of your characters absolutely exploded (that’s a good thing) in this one and we get so much more of them it seems. Rayna…love her more and would love my girls to grow up just like her. Well, just minus the fur. But really, the girl is fierce, confident, brave and bold. Again, I say…LOVE her. And to mention all the history we learn about Tiki and Vincent and sweet Willy…all pulled together makes this one powerful book.

Right from the start of RELEASE I hated someone...Eric. I was so sick of his attitude and the book had barely even started. He is vile and ugly and I just didn't like him. But who comes in and teaches him a lesson? Only one of my most favorite people in this series…Grams! I won't say what happens, but just know she is awesome. #TeamGrams

With each book of the series we see Chase's character grow and develop more and more. Who once started out as an arrogant teen, hell bent on killing any demon he comes in contact with...turns out to be a great young man with new morals and beliefs. He will do just about anything for the people he loves...even if most of them are demons. And the fact that he can’t just leave Vincent to fend for himself, speaks volumes for his character. Because after all the hell that Vincent has put Chase through; no one would blame him if he did.

We also learn a new twist to the story too. Someone might have plans of his own when it comes being leader over the Underworld. This revelation only makes matters worse for Chase and his friends. And I ain’t gonna lie…the horrid things this ‘twist’ could do actually had me scared for the group. Not only do they have to watch their back when it comes to Riley, but now they have this new threat lingering in the shadows. It could be one heck of a problem for them. And as time goes on…this ‘twist’ just gets crazy out of control and more and more people end up getting hurt.

And that ending! I am in tears thinking about it. Why Merrick? Why? Again, I won’t give away the details but keep in mind…tissues will be a must. No one is safe, absolutely no one.

So there you have my jumbled mess of a review. I had all kinds of thoughts running around in my head about the book and I apologize if it came out sporadic. But I can promise you…this series rocks…and it rocks hard. I cannot believe I had waited so long to read it but ever so glad I did.

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Jan 14, 2013 Nette rated it 3 of 5 stars

The third installment in The Protector series, Release takes readers on a journey to finding the soul pieces in order to defeat Riley...who happens to be Chase's dad and who is trying to evoke the spirit of a God in order to control all "otherworlders" are you following me?? :-)

While the overall story is engaging I felt this book dragged on at times. M.R. Merrick's ability to over-describe his fantasy world was pronounced and confused the story at times. The ending was a bit anti-climactic for a...more

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Jan 03, 2013 Ana rated it 5 of 5 stars

My Review: I know what I was expecting from this book and I got it…and more. Adventure, twists and turns and loads of mystery were my expectations but deep dives into the characters that gave me a more profound understanding of their lives and their actions was a definite bonus. I feel like the characters all grew exponentially in this book. Everyone’s story became a little bit clearer, either through their own stories or circumstances that gave me a peek into their pasts. It’s not often that a...more

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Dec 15, 2012 Kristy rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: paranormal, favourites

If you haven't read Exiled and Shift I suggest you do before reading Release.

Chase, Rayna and the rest of the gang are still attempting to collect soul pieces in order to destroy Riley's plan, which places them in constant danger. There is never a dull moment in this story. This book includes the characters we have grown to love -- or in the case of Vincent, love to hate -- as well as introducing us to some new ones. There are vampires, shifters, witches, demons and hunters and wonderful new wor...more

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Jan 30, 2013 Sphloo rated it 5 of 5 stars

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here.

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Dec 24, 2012 Alexa (Pages of Forbidden Love) rated it 4 of 5 stars

This review was originally posted at Pages of Forbidden Love

My Thoughts:

I couldn’t wait to dive back into this series since I really liked the first book and was in all out love with the second book. I really like that the author wrote a young adult book that was told in the male pov and it is a fantasy book. As a huge YA reader I hardly can ever find fantasy in the YA section that interests either interests me or exists in the first place! The same goes for YA books with a male lead! So I alwa...more This review was originally posted at Pages of Forbidden Love

My Thoughts:

I couldn’t wait to dive back into this series since I really liked the first book and was in all out love with the second book. I really like that the author wrote a young adult book that was told in the male pov and it is a fantasy book. As a huge YA reader I hardly can ever find fantasy in the YA section that interests either interests me or exists in the first place! The same goes for YA books with a male lead! So I always enjoy coming back to the world and characters that the author created because I know I’m in for a great adventure and a kick ass story.

I have to say the characters suffered in this book. I’m a very character driven reader, I know I say that all the time but the characters really matter to me. The characters in this story matter even more to me because I have already spent two books reading about them and I expected things to be a certain way for them. I have to say the character interactions were lacking a bit in this book. I was use to the characters being upbeat even in their not so bright world and I wanted them to have those witty moments like they have had in the previous books. I feel like this time around all of the characters were suffering physically and emotionally so it made it very hard to read about my favorite characters being down on themselves and not trusting themselves to survive the war that is placed at their feet. I have to say I really miss the way the characters were once acting in the previous books because this is the book in the series were the characters have to feel bad about their situations, life and death, and question themselves on if they should be in love with someone or not!! *mumbles at the very least at least Chase got to kiss her a few times*

While the characters were taken down a notch I do have to say the action and the storyline picked up. The plot started to go in so many directions that you never knew what was going to be happening. Were the characters going to be locked up in a different world or were they still on Earth but fighting off an old family of vampires for an older vampire named Vincent that they don’t even like or trust that much. So while my characters were suffering I do have to say the plot lines picked up and started to get deeper and more meaningful than they were in the first two books. So I did enjoy the fact that the fantasy elements were really enhanced during this book and the storyline became something more.

Overall, I’m sad to say my characters didn’t pull it out for me in this book. I still love all of them, even Vincent, but they just felt a little lackluster from everything they were going through. I know I know you are all going to get on my case and say that the characters have to suffer from time to time but I just miss the old spark and sass that they all had in the first two books. As I said the plot lines did become more involved so if you were waiting around for the plot to get thicker then this is a book you will love. So while I’m sad to say I didn’t love Release I do like it for the way it moved the story to the final battle stage.

4 hearts (stars)(less)

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Feb 12, 2013 Opal rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: young-adult, fantasy-sci-fi, urban-fantasy

3.5 stars

While most everyone was in love with this installment of The Protector, I was not. There were definitely some good points to it though. There was some high-powered action. It was a fun ride. If this were a movie, John Woo would have been directing it.

Another highlight was the relationships between the characters. Not just one relationship, but all of them. You could pick and choose the relationships between his friends and you’d have a quality interaction that spoke volumes. I still can...more

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Jan 10, 2013 Kelly rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: ebooks, urban-fantasy, young-adult, read-in-2013

I'm having a hard time writing this review. Like, my thoughts are all scattered and every time I try to pin them down, I get a little angry at Chase for the way he's acting. I know he's conflicted, I know he's just learning the ropes, I know he's having issues but... sometimes I just want to shake some sense into him. Chaaaassssse. Don't be a douche to the people you're supposed to be protecting.

I think his treatment of Vincent and his vampires is the thing that bothers me. Yeah, Vincent was a g...more

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Dec 29, 2012 TL Jeffcoat rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: favorite-books, reviewed, epic, modern-fantasy

What a phenomenal story. This book picks up where the last book ends. The good guys are trying to gather themselves together, but the insane Riley never lets them catch their breath and just keeps coming like an unstoppable force of nature, or evil in this case. Chase is bouncing to other dimensions once again as he begins to question the true meaning of the title he was given be the Gods as the Protector. The heart wrenching finale is this book actually made me want to throw the book the first...more

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Jan 14, 2013 Laura *Little Read Riding Hood* rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: ebooks

Why do you leave me like this?
I have got to start off by saying for some reason I had thought this was the last book in a trilogy ... no clue where I got that idea. I kept waiting for the book to wrap everything up and give me a complete ending. That didn't happen. It is obviously not the last book, otherwise Mr. Merrick and I would have some words.

I like this whole series, in that each book picks up where the previous book leaves off. You follow Chase along his journey to avenge a death and sa...more

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Dec 26, 2012 Smash added it

Shelves: ya-fantasy, favorites, read-2012

SMASHTASTIC IMPRESSIONS:

I went into this book thinking it was the final book, but that was obviously not the case. We get one more! Of course, this means I now must wait to KNOW WHAT HAPPENS. Ugh. THE ENDING! Oh, the ending will leave you so verrah sad. I was anticipating the event and was extremely touched. I was at lunch in a restaurant, and started getting sobby at the table. Alone. Reading a book. Creepy cat lady? NOT ME! I’m creepy book lady! Oh wait. I’m creepy cat lady too. Boo. Anywho, t...more SMASHTASTIC IMPRESSIONS:

I went into this book thinking it was the final book, but that was obviously not the case. We get one more! Of course, this means I now must wait to KNOW WHAT HAPPENS. Ugh. THE ENDING! Oh, the ending will leave you so verrah sad. I was anticipating the event and was extremely touched. I was at lunch in a restaurant, and started getting sobby at the table. Alone. Reading a book. Creepy cat lady? NOT ME! I’m creepy book lady! Oh wait. I’m creepy cat lady too. Boo. Anywho, the ending is a tear-jerker and the events leave you wanting sheer revenge, just like Chase!

WORLD-BUILDING: Holy. Frakin. Hell. Blown away, truly. I think I was most impressed with the settings of the different dimensions that are visited in this installment. The settings defied all logic yet Matt somehow made it all make sense. It was sometimes difficult to follow but I think my mouth was open most of the time by the sheer imagination that went into their creation. AND the action that took place while in these dangerous dimensions was just sheer awesome! Talk about a page-flipper! The creatures were also extremely imaginative and so vivid that I had no issues visualizing them.

CHARACTERS: Oh man, how I love these characters! Grams was a hoot in this installment. That old bat is spicy and doesn’t let the young folk walk all over her. Her banter with the group was so amusing. And we get more Rai time, which is just fine with me. I love this creature! One of my favorite creature sidekicks in a series. She reminds me of some sort of Pokemon with how she morphs into a fiercer form of her self. She is very protective of Chase and saves his ass a few times. Just adore her! ♥ Tiki remains wise and compassionate about the plight of others, even if they are less than savory. I love how fair he is, even though I felt like bitch slapping a few people. Or maybe trout slapping is more appropriate? We get to see Tiki’s demon come out, which was o.O-inducing!

Willy and Chase have some heart-warming talks about their friendship and how they are prepared to fight until the end. Their bond is so beautiful! I loved Willy’s positive traits being pointed out in this book. He’s such a great guy. On the opposite end of the spectrum, however, we have Vincent. I have never been a fan of Vincent and while he shows some sort of humanity and compassion in this installment, his former actions towards some characters left me really angry and disgusted. Shady bastard is the term that comes to mind. Chase and Vincent are at odds throughout the entire book, but damn if Chase doesn’t man up and help out where he is needed.

Of course, Chase is a standout, as he should be. This guy has changed drastically since Exiled, but he still holds on to some self-doubt and continues to feel guilt over all the events that have and will occur. He has surely matured, however, and uses his new-found confidence to stand up to some serious threats. He is the Protector, after all, and would definitely die saving the innocent. I hope it doesn’t come to that, or Matty boy will have some serious hate mail. And maybe a flaming bag of poo on his doorstep…I kid, of course. *shifty eyes*

Rayna and Chase have come a long way in their relationship. There are constant obstacles in the way of their happiness, but damn if they don’t fight for their right to experience love. They make me feel mushy and I so badly want this to work out for them!

FAVORITE QUOTES

”Wonderful,” I said. “We have Vincent, the day-walking vampire. Blade would be so proud. Can we go now?”

MAD PROPS FOR A BLADE REFERENCE!(less)

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Jan 12, 2013 Jackie -Sated Faery rated it 5 of 5 stars

Wow! This is just one of those stories that keeps getting better and better! The more I read, the more I’m drawn into Chase’s world and am personally devastated by his losses. I can’t tell you how many times this book made me want to scream, “Is anything ever going to go right for this guy??” I mean, I can feel his determination and frustration as things continue to come against him. Nothing keeps him down for long, though. He’s stronger than any of his enemies believe. His friends are loyal and...more

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Feb 14, 2013 Bex 'n' Books rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: bex-n-books-ya, bex-s-review

In M.R Merrick’s Release we delve into a much darker place, where life for Chase is constantly filled with danger, questions and mystery. The pace was a little slower than Shift, despite the array of action of amazing places that Merrick took Chase on. Through all of Chase’s journeys, it was impossible not to continue rooting for him and his band of merry warriors. The team he has around him are such an eclectic bunch, that they constantly entertained and amused me.

I missed Rayna a little in Shi...more

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Jan 17, 2013 Brittani (Hope, Faith & Books) rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: books-i-own-ebooks

You can find more reviews, along with this one on my blog Hope, Faith & Books

I definitely thought this was the best book yet! Still filled with tons of action! There was definitely things I didn't see coming in this book! So I guess I'll start with how many people Marcus and the group got to work together. They actually managed to get a huge amount of people to agree to work together! That's definitely not easy since a majority of those people were at odds with each other. I was disappointed...more You can find more reviews, along with this one on my blog Hope, Faith & Books

I definitely thought this was the best book yet! Still filled with tons of action! There was definitely things I didn't see coming in this book! So I guess I'll start with how many people Marcus and the group got to work together. They actually managed to get a huge amount of people to agree to work together! That's definitely not easy since a majority of those people were at odds with each other. I was disappointed however that Riley decided to take to mass attacks, attacking pretty much every group who decided to work with Marcus and everyone. A majority of those groups lost half or more of their people. Its amazing how the good guys in this battle keep getting setback no matter how hard they try to get ahead! It also sucked that some of those people working with them had to go into hiding for like half the book just to protect themselves and make sure Riley couldn't find them before resurfacing to help. And then on top of Riley's never ending attacks, they also had to deal with Arian, the old leader of the Hollowlights that Riley so felt the need to give power to. That guy was dead-set determined to turn try and turn Chase into a Shifter! It was like his obsession!

And then Chase. He was having a seriously difficult time controlling his elements! It was like one small emotional moment turned into a huge release of his powers and he couldn't control it. And to make matters worse, as the book went on his powers were becoming to much for him. They were actually hurting him. I thought Chase couldn't get a break in Shift, he seriously couldn't get one in Release! I cant imagine how much he was dealing with in this book! Especially after he lost the ring and one of the demon gods soul pieces to Riley in the previous one! And then we have Rayna. We finally find out why she was having trouble with her Witch powers. Comes to find out, she's a specific type of Witch (not spoiling which kind). So once she figured out exactly what type of magic she was supposed to be studying, her powers came to her a lot easier! I must say, even amongst the chaos in this book, I really enjoyed that Chase and Rayna still got a few moments to themselves and I loved that their relationship took a turn! :)

Seriously, how many times is Chase supposed to go into the other dimensions for soul pieces and have them taken by Riley?!?!?! I mean he got two and lost one at the end. I feel so bad for him... He is seriously doing all he can to try and stop Riley but it doesn't seem to matter! That ending crushed me! Between losing one of the soul pieces (not telling which one) and the death of one of the group I was so sad! So not cool Riley! Chase will get you eventually!!! (less)

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Jan 01, 2013 Ann rated it 4 of 5 stars

For someone so young, Chase has seen a lot of death and destruction and it doesn't look like it's going to be ending soon. This time around in the third installment of Merrick's Protector Series, Chase's title as The Protector is heavily challenged as he's hunted by the psychotic multi-shifter Arian, while racing his father Riley from dimension to dimension to get to Ithreal's soul pieces to prevent worldwide annihilation and keeping his friends breathing. But after the events of Exiled and Shif...more For someone so young, Chase has seen a lot of death and destruction and it doesn't look like it's going to be ending soon. This time around in the third installment of Merrick's Protector Series, Chase's title as The Protector is heavily challenged as he's hunted by the psychotic multi-shifter Arian, while racing his father Riley from dimension to dimension to get to Ithreal's soul pieces to prevent worldwide annihilation and keeping his friends breathing. But after the events of Exiled and Shift, Chase is cut off from the Gods and now his powers start going haywire, it seems like this whole saving the world thing would have to been done the old fashioned way with a little elbow grease and a good dagger.

I love the covers of these series, they're always so mysterious and their full meaning isn't revealed until well into the story and everything clicks and you have an "aha!" moment.

Chase has always been pretty hot headed, and with so many elements burning in his core he needs to learn emotional control fast - but with everyone rushing to deal with the coming onslaught, I felt like he was pretty isolated and left to figure things out on his own for the most part. I was really proud that he took so much initiative and really proved his worth as a leader and The Protector in some of the most trying situations.

Sometimes intriguing secondary characters never get their day, but I was so surprised how much depth and history Merrick revealed in Released that added to the growth of several characters and their story arcs in addition to Chase's story. This was especially true with Willy (my absolute favorite character) and his tragic past in conjunction with the vampire Vincent's familial problems that end up being a large thorn in Chase's side.

I especially loved that Chase's friends end up playing a more integral role to his character development. Tiki acts like The Protector's conscience, gently reminding Chase of his obligations to every poor soul in any world that needs help. They constantly clash for a while, but it's important in the road to Chase fully accepting his role as The Protector.

Since more or less solidifying their relationship in Shift, Rayna and Chase this time around are a bit more subdued. I was a bit sad that we didn't get to see more of them together (but this story isn't meant to be a bad teen romance), but the stolen moments that they do get are so cute and give such a bright flare of hope for Chase to keep trudging through the dark.

Merrick continues The Protector Series with his sharp wit, distinctive and alluring demonic dimensions and of course thrilling visceral action sequences. But here's the thing, I was so used to Merrick's action sequences I thought I knew how they'd play out - because it was formulaic. There's some equal sparring, a sudden dire situation and desperation but it all works out in the end because that's how a heroes story goes.

I have to hand a slow appreciative clap to Merrick right here because while these sequences kept me entertained, they lulled me into such a deep sense of security that I was completely blind sided by the ending. I mean, Merrick had to have some serious cajones to pull that ending off, I am both shocked and supremely pissed and can't wait to see what happens in the next installment!(less)

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Feb 15, 2013 Kerry rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: books-i-have, favorites

"You want to hug, don't you?"

What an ending! Yeah, that was rude. I bawled my eyes out. I can't believe you did that, Merrick, but I have to say, it really did up the ante!

"I'm melting!"

I love Vincent. I was very happy to see him again in this book. He is my favourite quasi villain of the series. I especially loved the scene of Vincent and the sun. I was laughing my ass off. And I couldn't help but side with chase...I would have been hard pressed not to do the same thing.

I kind of feel like a d...more

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Feb 25, 2013 Katrina Tinnon rated it 5 of 5 stars

Merrick likes to toy with my feelings and make me a wreck of emotions by the end of the book.

This is by far my favorite in the series. There is so much brutal honesty when it comes to Chase's thought process. He realizes some flaws about himself, and tries his hardest to fix them. He understands that he's hot headed, and acts on his emotions. My only complaint is he feels like he needs to blame himself for so much. Things probably wouldn't have changed had things gone differently, and he needs t...more

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Jan 08, 2013 Stephanie Ward rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: blog-tour, ebook, for-review

4.5 Stars

'Release' is the third book in the young adult fantasy Protector series. It continues where book #2 (Shift) left off, with Chase and the crew trying to find Riley and stop him, while tons of other crazy stuff keeps happening. I know that this sounds like a really flimsy summary and it is. But if I were to try to explain everything that happens in the book, let alone the series so far, this post would take 3 days to read. So, I'm improvising and making the summary really generic, which I...more 4.5 Stars

'Release' is the third book in the young adult fantasy Protector series. It continues where book #2 (Shift) left off, with Chase and the crew trying to find Riley and stop him, while tons of other crazy stuff keeps happening. I know that this sounds like a really flimsy summary and it is. But if I were to try to explain everything that happens in the book, let alone the series so far, this post would take 3 days to read. So, I'm improvising and making the summary really generic, which I hate doing.

I am so amazed and disappointed in myself for not reading this series sooner. I had read so many awesome reviews of the first two books in the series, but I never got around to reading them. So, for the last couple of days my nose has been pressed against my Nook and I have been devouring the first three books to catch up. Crazyness - pure and simple. I will tell you now and again later in the review - If you have not read this series - DO IT NOW. You will not be disappointed. I promise.

Honestly, I don't know where to start with this book or what to say about it. There's so much happening with the characters - Chase is struggling to find and stop his father, trying to figure out what's going on with Rayna, attempting to control himself, and learning some really hard life lessons. He goes through some big character changes and growth in this book. He matures a lot and learns even more, which only makes me love his character and his role in the series more. The other characters deal with heavy issues too - again, I just don't have the time to delve into all the juicy details. There are several story lines going on at once, but they don't clash with each other or confuse the reader. They flow effortlessly into one another at a good pace - not too fast to make your mind spin and not too slow that you feel like nothing will ever happen. It's a great medium pace - perfect in my opinion. The writing is superb. From the first sentence of the first book, I was hooked - immediately drawn into the magical world that the author has richly created for us. The characters, the history behind everything, the plot itself - everything is detailed with great precision and gives the series a wonderful depth and layers that make it so much richer than most novels out there. The end of the book was a big deal - it was so, so bad! WHY?! Like many others who have read and loved the series, I was crushed. I cried. I was really angry and upset. I get why it had to be that way, but I SO didn't want it to happen. No spoilers though - READ IT YOURSELF - NOW! Overall, this is an amazing continuation of a fantastically epic fantasy series. It breaks the genre barriers and definitely will appeal to fans of all types of fiction. I will undoubtedly continue to see what happens next. Seriously - read this series. I promise you'll love it!

Disclosure: I received a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.(less)

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Release (The Protector #3)

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