Mercy Blade (Jane Yellowrock, #3)

Apr 06, 2011 Erika Badass rated it 4 of 5 stars Recommends it for: Urban Fantasy Fans, Fans with Kick ass Heroines, not a lot of romance

Shelves: jan-2011

This was a fast paced gut wrenching read, and I will admit that I went to bed last night, right after I read the part where Jane goes to the restaurant to meet Rick for Breakfast, only he had already been there...(view spoiler) Then I went to bed. And had ALL SORTS of little dreams about what happened, and what ~~who~~ Rick was doing. It was awful and I slept shallowly and debated whether to get up and read in order to assuage my curiosity. I didn't, but now I'm s...more

7 likes · like · see review

Jan 02, 2011 Angela James rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2011, arc, urban-fantasy

I came to add a review that said "I don't know what to think about this book" but before I did that, I read some of the other reviews. And found someone else had already left that review. Glad I'm not alone! The thing is, I didn't dislike this book. But I do know I also didn't feel satisfied when I closed it, and I had a harder time getting into this installment.

I think part of my difficulty with this book, and the series, is that I'm not really sure where it's going as an overarching series. I...more

9 likes · like · see review

May 05, 2011 Chichipio rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: urban-fantasy

Another 2.5. My masochism knows no bounds. The sad part is that, next year, I'll probably read the fourth installment when it comes out. Yeap, I do stupid things like that.

Writing a review for this one feels a little repetitive since little has changed in terms of what I like/dislike since the first book. In fact, I could copy the review of the second book verbatim and have it work this time as well.

In this one, two new species of supes make their appearance. One that we don't know much about it...more Another 2.5. My masochism knows no bounds. The sad part is that, next year, I'll probably read the fourth installment when it comes out. Yeap, I do stupid things like that.

Writing a review for this one feels a little repetitive since little has changed in terms of what I like/dislike since the first book. In fact, I could copy the review of the second book verbatim and have it work this time as well.

In this one, two new species of supes make their appearance. One that we don't know much about it—the little we do know would be a spoiler—and the weres. Again, Hunter's supes are very well done and the weres are no exception. The explanation of their origin as a legend/history lesson was one of the only parts that worked for me. For that kind of thing, Hunter's descriptive style works really well. Sadly (for me, at least), she uses it for everything.

Writing this a few days after reading the book made me realize something else. I'm now in the middle of the 6th Mercy Thompson novel, River Marked, and I noticed another thing that might contribute to my not liking Jane a bit more. The (lack of) humor.

When Mercy thinks or says a stupid joke, I usually find it funny. Not all of them, of course. But that's alright because she never calls attention to her joking. We all say stupid things from time to time—some of us, most of the time. Some people will think a comment funny while others will think it odd, obvious, lame, a bit stupid, or possibly the product of an addled mind. Nobody can be universally funny all the time.

When I'm reading a book, only my sense of humor is the judge of what's funny and what isn't. Not calling attention to any comment will let my brain pick the jokes on its own. When there's a joke that I don't get or simply find lame, my brain will likely ignore it and only absorb the information in it. No harm done.

Jane's jokes do nothing for me, but I don't even have the chance of not noticing them, because Hunter punctuates each of them with a sentence about how Jane "almost laugh about it," or "barely managed to contain the titter bubbling up in her chest," or "would one day die because of her sense of humor." I think subtlety works better for this. Throw the joke out there without calling attention to it. The same number of people will find it funny, but at least you avoid pointing it out to those who don't.

So, not much else to say. Fans of the series will probably be very pleased with this book since I can say that, of the three, this one is the best one plot- and action-wise. People on the fence or waiting for some things to change in the characters will better skip it since it's pretty much more of the same.(less)

5 likes · like · see review

Jul 15, 2011 drey rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2011-reads, ebooks, urban-fantasy, favorites

In this highly-anticipated third installment in Faith Hunter's Jane Yellowrock series, Jane's headed to the Big Easy, to do a job for the Master of the City, Leo Pellisier. Not too much of a hardship, as her new main man--undercover cop Rick--is there too. But it's not too long before their jobs get in the way of their relationship...

To add to the man-undercover-angst, her boss Leo's not too fond of Jane right now (after the events in Blood Cross), so she also has stay-under-the-radar angst. But...more In this highly-anticipated third installment in Faith Hunter's Jane Yellowrock series, Jane's headed to the Big Easy, to do a job for the Master of the City, Leo Pellisier. Not too much of a hardship, as her new main man--undercover cop Rick--is there too. But it's not too long before their jobs get in the way of their relationship...

To add to the man-undercover-angst, her boss Leo's not too fond of Jane right now (after the events in Blood Cross), so she also has stay-under-the-radar angst. But when trouble shows up in the form of weres (dogs AND cats), that doesn't stop her from trying to head off a revenge-motivated retaliation against Leo. Unfortunately for Jane, all of this action's just the side dish to Leo's main task for her: find the vamp who's returned to his territory, and tell him to get lost. Or else.

Character: Jane rocks. She's tough, mentally and physically. And yet she's still vulnerable, especially when trusting her heart to others. So you're totally with her when she starts having doubts about Rick, especially when she hasn't seen him in ages, and it looks like he's hanging with another gal. But I'd expect her to not be so darn wishy-washy about him. You get the facts and then deal with it. Not dwell in angst.

I really like Bruiser in this installment, his character's much more fleshed out, and if Rick weren't in the picture (is he still? I'm not telling!), I'd say take Bruiser for a ride! *wink* The werecats who show up could've been featured more, I think, but maybe that's just because I'm curious, darn it. Yes, yes, I know all about curiosity and cats... Still...

Pace & Plot: Well. Faith Hunter doesn't make you wait for the action, that's for sure. And when the plot gets going, you want to make sure you've got a chunk of time carved out for this book, because this is jam-packed with stuff. If this were an action film, there'd be car chase scenes and explosions and death-defying feats all over it... (cue Quantum Solace theme song... yes, I'm a Daniel-Craig-as-Bond girl...) But since it's a book, you just get fight scenes, fight scenes, and more fight scenes. Phew.

Lest you think it's all action and no substance, you also get Jane wondering about her and Beast, and why there aren't more of them... Some questions get brought up, and I sure hope they get answered! I'm impatiently waiting on the next one.

If you haven't read Faith Hunter's Jane Yellowrock urban fantasy yet, well, why not?(less)

4 likes · like · see review

Aug 11, 2011 Dana rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: fiction-contemporary, fantasy-epic, fantasy-paranormal, fantasy-urban, magic, witch-wizard-mage-sorcerer, shifters, vampire

★ ★ ★ ½

I could have eeked out a 4 star on this but the begining stank of a newer model Anita Blake novel, and that I just cannot stomach, urgh!

Quickly though, it became a Faith Hunter novel and I enjoyed the book very much. This seemed to be the 'getting ready to turn the corner' book as far as plot development. It had some very predictable outcomes and a couple that were not so much a suprise, as they were shocking in their source. The romance aspect was formulaic until the very last page. The...more

2 likes · like · see review

Mar 11, 2011 Anita rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: urban-fantasy, five-star-favorites, paranormal-romance, paranormal-mystery

As of 2011, this is the most current book (3rd) in the Jane Yellowrock urban fantasy series, which has only covered a couple months of time in Jane's life so far. I absolutely love this series - it's made me a big fan of this author and I'l going to look into her other works now. If you like kick-ass, supernatural female protagonists in the urban fantasy subgenre, you will like this series. It's very well written and the cast of characters comes alive. Highly recommended, but read the series in...more

2 likes · like · see review

Jan 03, 2013 Elaine rated it 3 of 5 stars

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

2 likes · like · see review

Aug 27, 2011 Melissa rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: urban-fantasy, shape-shifter

I love the Jane Yellowrock novels because of the themes they explore. One of the big, big themes in this series is that of two equal but opposing sides and exploring how those two sides can live and work together. Vampire and human; human and witch; vampire and werewolf; woman and panther; Christian and Cherokee; warrior and woman. There are probably more that I’ve missed.

I like the fact that Jane isn’t a perfect character. She has flaws, she messes up, she makes bad choices – she is REAL. I wis...more
I love the Jane Yellowrock novels because of the themes they explore. One of the big, big themes in this series is that of two equal but opposing sides and exploring how those two sides can live and work together. Vampire and human; human and witch; vampire and werewolf; woman and panther; Christian and Cherokee; warrior and woman. There are probably more that I’ve missed.

I like the fact that Jane isn’t a perfect character. She has flaws, she messes up, she makes bad choices – she is REAL. I wish she’d chosen anyone other than Rick, but I get why she did. It’s easy to stand outside of a relationship and say, “This man is bad for you.” It’s not so easy to be one of the involved parties and do that. I don’t think there are a lot of women out there who haven’t made that mistake a time or two. One doesn’t have to like or agree with the main character’s motivations or actions in order to realize that the story is well-crafted.

In the end, MERCY BLADE is very well-crafted. For myself, I wish Jane could feel less guilt over her out-of-wedlock activities, but I understand the motivation behind it. Some other reviews have taken an issue with her guilt over unmarried sex and said that it is at odds with her vampire killer career, but I disagree. Jane does not see vampires (or werewolves, I think) as human. As a matter of fact, I think it’s reasonable to assume that her Christian upbringing, at least, may view her career as destroying evil — and thus, not a bad thing at all. Religion gets freaky and hypocritical sometimes, and this book shows that really well.

The mystery is solid and not one of those throw away UF or paranormal “mysteries” where you can figure out the bad guy within the first 10 pages. The characters are conflicted, make bad choices, and have to deal with their own mistakes (A LOT of mistakes). Jane’s world doesn’t pull it’s punches and doesn’t keep its characters wrapped in plastic. And Jane doesn’t always come out ahead by herself (or at all)– a woman can be strong and still need to ask for help. (Note to self: going up against an entire biker bar of werewolves is a time to ask for help.)

This is a dark world and really explores some not too bright and cheery themes. If you’re afraid of that, you might want to seek your stories elsewhere. If you want stale, formulaic mysteries and too-strong-for-their-own-good heroines, there are plenty of other places to look. If you want a peek into the world of an extraordinary, supernatural woman with real flaws, then I’d urge you to give Jane a chance.(less)

2 likes · like · see review

Jan 29, 2011 Tori smexys_sidekick rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: review-for-smexybooks

Originally posted at http://www.smexybooks.com/2011/01/rev...

Favorite Quote: ”Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.” “But not this time God. You had your chance.”

Jane Yellowrock, rogue vampire hunter and employee to Leo Pellissier, Blood Master of the City, finds herself caught in the crossfire when were-animals decide to announce their presence to the mortal world. When Jane is attacked by 5 were-wolves she is grateful but mystified when her life is saved by the mysterious Girrard. G...more

3 likes · like · see review

Mar 10, 2011 James E rated it 5 of 5 stars

OK i loved this book so much i just had too write a review. Jane aka Rogue Vampire hunter for hire. Is at it again this time its wheres..the closest thing to finding out what she is but this time its not her butt on the line its her boss aka Leo head vampire...hes also a head vampire being accused of murder. This book i liked better then the others its more dark and has more action the only thing i think it lacked was more beast...Yes i said it beast...i love the way faith hunter portrays beast....more

1 like · like · see review

Jan 02, 2011 Mud rated it 5 of 5 stars

I get tired reading about romantic vampires, be they with fangs, sparkling, tattooed, or preordained to meet their mates. Don't get me wrong, I still paranormal romance, but what happened to the dark vampire, the charismatic, blood sucking vamp, that doesn't fall in love with the female lead and go off softly into the sunset?

That's one why I am totally enthralled by Faith Hunter's Urban Fantasy series with Jane Yellowrock. Jane was introduced in Skinwalker, a Cherokee Skinwalker, apparently the...more I get tired reading about romantic vampires, be they with fangs, sparkling, tattooed, or preordained to meet their mates. Don't get me wrong, I still paranormal romance, but what happened to the dark vampire, the charismatic, blood sucking vamp, that doesn't fall in love with the female lead and go off softly into the sunset?

That's one why I am totally enthralled by Faith Hunter's Urban Fantasy series with Jane Yellowrock. Jane was introduced in Skinwalker, a Cherokee Skinwalker, apparently the last of her kind. If that wasn't bad enough, Jane actually is more than a Skinwalker. Black magic in her past bound her to the soul of another, a panther known simply as beast.

Another is Hunter's remaining true to natural laws, placing this Urban Fantasy as completely possible, a parallel reality to our own.

In Mercy Blade, we pick up where Jane left off with her boyfriend, undercover cop Rick. They make an interesting couple, Rick can't share work stories anymore than Jane can. Rick investigates the paranormal, Jane is a Vampire Hunter, killing rogues for the Master Of the City in New Orleans. If that weren't enough, Rick is not aware that Jane is a shape shifter. Common interests, including their motorcycles, makes it work this early in their relationship.

The story leads back into the dark world of the paranormal community. The weres are coming out of the closet, a black Wereleopard shifts on national television, giving Jane some possible clues to her own background.

Unfortunately, the Werewolves and the Vampires in New Orleans have a longtime dispute. Although they have stayed out of the city, the Werewolves take up a long run grudge against Leo, the MOC, and crash the Vamp/Were meeting. They were not invited.

Murder, mayhem, and new characters are introduced. What is the Mercy Blade, and what does he have to do with vampires and saving them from the madness of dolore? Jane has to decide if Rick is just undercover again, playing around on her, or if she needs to save him. There are other men interested in Jane, not just what she is. But as Beast says, big cats don't mate for life.
The paranormals in Hunter's universe have long memories. Jane's may even be longer.

As usual, more clues are scattered as to Jane's past, and new lines are opened for future books. As with other favorite books in this genre, if there are any real issues with the book is that it takes too long to wait for the next.(less)

1 like · like · see review

Jan 09, 2011 Tori [Book Faery] rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: read-in-2011, arc, highly-recommended, reviewed

See this review in it's entirety at:
http://www.book-faery.blogspot.com

Once again, Faith Hunter has completely wowed me with another amazing story in the Jane Yellowrock series. Fans familiar with the series will be thrilled to discover that all established characters in the past two books make some sort of appearance in MERCY BLADE. That means we finally discover some unanswered questions, we witness new and blooming relationships, and we figure out whether or not Leo is actually batshit crazy.

A...more See this review in it's entirety at:
http://www.book-faery.blogspot.com

Once again, Faith Hunter has completely wowed me with another amazing story in the Jane Yellowrock series. Fans familiar with the series will be thrilled to discover that all established characters in the past two books make some sort of appearance in MERCY BLADE. That means we finally discover some unanswered questions, we witness new and blooming relationships, and we figure out whether or not Leo is actually batshit crazy.

A recent relationship in Jane's life, while brief in the beginning, adds a new, complicated element to our heroine's persona. On one hand, the young woman struggles with physical wants and desires, but then on the other, she struggles with a guilt that surfaces, reminding her that she is a bad Christian. At some points, the religious and political commentary seemed like it was a little overdone, but I felt that I could easily overlook that tiny bit.

There is so much sexual tension in this book. I admit that I was not a fan of Bruiser in SKINWAKER, however, he slowly grew on me in BLOOD CROSS. Now, in MERCY BLADE, I was begging my book for him and Jane to hook up. The chemistry and attraction between these two characters had me wanting to fan myself, while also feeling guilty because of Rick. When the heck has a book made me feel GUILTY about the heroine lusting after guys? Never. I think it has to do with the fact that Jane kept reflecting back on her guilt, which in turn, made me feel guilty. I'm still in shock that I felt bad! Nevertheless, I love the interactions between them now. I adore how flirty they are and how pushy Beast is when Jane and Bruiser are alone together. It just... was perfect.

Speaking of Beast, once again, I was not disappointed with our furry friend. I think that the relationship evolving between Beast and Jane has evolved to hilarious levels. I felt the comfortable bond the two share now, which made me smile. Looking back on this series, our lovable duo has come a long way.

The attention to detail is spot on in this book. I don't know anything about motocycles, guns, and weapons in general, but after reading MERCY BLADE, I feel like I can name a few facts. While I thought that all of this information provided was interesting, and reveals the author did her homework, I also felt that some description scenes went into a little too much detail for my tastes. I'm not into weapons or crime scenes, which is why I felt the need to skim over a paragraph or two regarding these points. For those who are interested, I believe these descriptions will impress the reader and draw them into the Jane Yellowrock world. As for me, it made the beginning in particular a little more difficult to get into. However, once the action in the story picks up, the detail gives way to heart-thumping action and the pages are no longer bogged down with pages of descriptions.

Too much description was actually my only complaint with this story. I almost cried by the end because I felt as emotionally exhausted as Jane did. I wanted to kick and scream and punch that stupid were-bitch early on. I wanted Jane to finally be happy...but I won't know until book four because of the cruel (okay I'm exaggerating a little bit) cliffhanger at the end. I'm hoping--no, praying--that the next book in this series will come out later this year. I don't think I could wait until 2012 for another Jane Yellowrock book.

MERCY BLADE, like I've stated earlier, does not disappoint. It is solid proof that Faith's writing continues to improve with each book published. I find that this is one universe chock full of characters that I fondly remember whenever discussing this series to a fellow reader. If you're looking for a dark, gritty tale where vampires are psychotic and not lovey dovey, where werewolves aren't sexy beasts, and where there is sexual tension up the wazoo, then MERCY BLADE and the Jane Yellowrock series is the series for you. Highly suggest buying this book today, and reading the prior novels ASAP! (less)

1 like · like · see review

Feb 11, 2011 Shelley aka Gizmo's Reviews rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2011-releases, shifters, vampires, fantasy

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. Synopsis: Her name is Jane Yellowrock and she is a skinwalker; the last of her kind. To survive she's also a rogue vampire slayer. She shares her body and mind with Beast and are able to communicate with each other. When Jane shapeshifts she usually turns to Beast, but she can change into any animal she chooses. Now the Weres have gone public and Jane works exclusively for the Blood Master of New Orleans, Leo Pellissier. Leo hates werewolves and when a clan of weres arrives to stake a claim in L...more

1 like · like · see review

Mar 06, 2011 Darcy rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2011, 2012, audio-book, listened-to-at-work, shifters, uf, vampires

For some reason I was a little bored while reading this one and I am not sure why as there was a ton of action in it. The start of the book shows us Jane and her new happiness with Rick, where they quickly learn along with the rest of the world, of were creatures. Jane has a big interest in this because of her secret.

Back home in New Orleans things seem to get back to normal, or at least as normal as they can get for Jane as she works for the vampires and it is surprising how fast this new disc...more

1 like · like · see review

Jan 09, 2011 Joe rated it 3 of 5 stars

I was super high on this series, until Mercy Blade.

Eventually Jane will learn not to attend vampire parties, they always end in violence.

Eventually Jane will learn that vampires lie because they are not good people and don't want the fact that they are cold and manipulative to be common knowledge.

Eventually Jane will learn that vampires are emotionally unstable and seem to suffer from universal manic-depression and schizophrenia.

The cliff hanger ending with Ricky Bo is a little on the nose.

2 likes · like · see review

May 19, 2013 Rie Conley rated it 4 of 5 stars

I hate being annoyed with series, but I am. I simply am. Jane has huge hangups when it comes to sex due to being raised in a church school. She is sex negative that I'm like you have to be effing kidding me. The amount she allows this view of sex to affect how she judges not only herself, but others pisses me off. Not only is she being judgmental of others by a standard that even her Beast thinks isn't natural, but she has let it affect every single case so far.

This book seemed overally long and...more

like · see review

Mar 30, 2013 TallMocha rated it 2 of 5 stars

Just finished the book, still upset and I'm probably done with series beware of spoilers

So, what to say. This woman is ridiculous when it comes to her love life. I was annoyed with her reaction when she found out about Rick's cheating and after about his torture. There has been just a slight jealousy when she heard what he was doing after that it was ok because he was working undercover. No it's not ok. When she met him he worked undercover, she knew (saw him, heard him) that he had sex with wom...more

like · see review

Mar 11, 2013 Christa rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: urban-fantasy, vampires, paranormal, weres

Wow. I really enjoyed the first two books in this series, but the third, Mercy Blade, is the volume that sunk its claws into me and wouldn't let go. I think this is the fourth time I've read this book and it still hits me like a steel-toed boot to the gut. It's an emotional roller coaster with revelations that upend Jane's world, a tricky mystery and plenty of action.

Elation. Rage. Heartache. Guilt. Hope?

For all that is going on around her, Jane has some fabulous coping strategies. She doesn't c...more

like · see review

Mar 03, 2013 Mistress of the Dark Path rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: urban-fantasy

Jane Yellowrock is back at it again for this third book in the series. Though things start out a bit slow with Jane and her boyfriend Rick out of town in the Appalachian mountains, it quickly heats up. After seeing startling media reports that show Weres (particularly werecats in the beginning) are finally coming out in the open, they are both called back to duty in New Orleans. Jane continues her duties as an employee of Leo, the Master Vampire of the city, and Rick continues his as an undercov...more Jane Yellowrock is back at it again for this third book in the series. Though things start out a bit slow with Jane and her boyfriend Rick out of town in the Appalachian mountains, it quickly heats up. After seeing startling media reports that show Weres (particularly werecats in the beginning) are finally coming out in the open, they are both called back to duty in New Orleans. Jane continues her duties as an employee of Leo, the Master Vampire of the city, and Rick continues his as an undercover cop. Though they apparently began growing close over their one month relationship, this latest crisis certainly puts a strain.

Upon arriving back, Rick quickly disappears to his undercover job and Jane is requested to head up security for upcoming talks among the supernatural creatures. Other duties and tasks quickly pile up as she gets into the swing of things and, as usual, nothing in her job goes exactly as planned. In the aftermath of some bloody battles, she is forced to work quickly to solve mysteries that have a far more reaching impact than she has faced yet. New creatures and secondary characters add to her growing list of troubles, but add also to the excitement. The action is as deadly and bloody as previous books. Jane is left with little time to recover before the next confrontation begins keeping the reader in suspense. This latest installment brings back many of the characters seen before and delves further into their backgrounds. While some questions are answered, many more are brought out. Janes ability to keep her identity a secret will also become difficult. She is exposed to more supernatural races and they join the others in being suspicious of her nature.

Though I thoroughly enjoyed this novel, there are two main problems I would mention. As stated in others reviews, Jane spent far too much time in angst over Rick. For only dating him a short time and having avoided serious relationships up to meeting him, it just didn't seem credible for her to be so obsessive. The author could have shown Jane had some concern without it going overboard. Also, it seemed that Jane spent entirely too much time worrying over her religious sins. Particularly over having slept with Rick out of wedlock and nearly sleeping with another man. She is a woman that kills others for a career. Technically, Christianity emphasizes peace and turning the other cheek. She obviously doesn't follow those tenets so why all the inner dialog on her sinning? This happens frequently as the story goes along. It should also be considered that Jane follows some of her Indian heritage beliefs. This puts the two belief systems at odds. It would have been better to leave out all the unnecessary religious connotations. Her Indian beliefs have far more importance for this series anyway. If these two complaints were taken out, I would certainly label this a five star review for everything else in the story was excellent.

For those who have not read the first two books in the series, I would recommend reading them first. It is possible you could read this one alone, but it would be difficult to gain the emotional attachment and understanding of all the characters without reading the others. This is an excellent series and well worth the time to read. It is not romance heavy, but there is some elements to it. The Jane Yellowrock series is best suited for those who enjoy a bit of mystery, a tough [...] heroine, and lots of paranormal elements. (less)

like · see review

Feb 25, 2013 Bookmom rated it 4 of 5 stars

Jane is requested to handle security and arrange guest comforts at the Vampire’s HQ for negotiations with African were-cats right after they announce their presence to the world. Traditionally the shifters and vampires do not get along. But as Jane soon discovers, werewolves also exist and they’ve got a bone to pick. At the same time Rick has apparently gone undercover and he’s not calling. And the vampire/were-cat party doesn’t quite go as planned.

There are so many sides to this story. We learn...more

like · see review

Apr 01, 2012 Fangs for the Fantasy rated it 4 of 5 stars

Jane Yellowrock is still serving Leo Pellissier, vampire leader of New Orleans – and she’s needed more than ever as a whole new revelation sweeps the world – werecreatures exist. Not only do they exist, but New Orleans is going to be ground zero of a whole new series of diplomatic meetings between the werecats of Africa and the Vampires – and these are 2 groups that don’t get on very well.

One thing that does untie them is their hatred of the werewolves – werewolves that are also coming back to N...more Jane Yellowrock is still serving Leo Pellissier, vampire leader of New Orleans – and she’s needed more than ever as a whole new revelation sweeps the world – werecreatures exist. Not only do they exist, but New Orleans is going to be ground zero of a whole new series of diplomatic meetings between the werecats of Africa and the Vampires – and these are 2 groups that don’t get on very well.

One thing that does untie them is their hatred of the werewolves – werewolves that are also coming back to New Orleans after Leo drove them out many years before. They want their territory back, they’re harbouring a grudge against the vampires and they’re willing to use any tool – violence or human law or human media – to get their territory back and drive Leo out.

Then here’s the vampires themselves s-living for centuries means vampires and blood servants can develop so many grudges and feuds between them. Someone’s definitely plotting among the vampire clans – and targeting Leo and Bruiser, his chief blood servant – in an elegant legal frame.

On top of that there’s Girrard DiMercy, the Mercy Blade who has come back to town – an old friend and servants of Leo’s and now a bitter enemy. He’s coming back and hanging around with powers Jane doesn’t understand and an agenda no-one knows and he’s not leaving.

And Katie chooses now, of all times, to rise from her crypt irrational and lost from her long healing from Skinwalker

Into this mix – one of the were-leopards dies and Jane’s boyfriend, Rick, disappears. Now to find who dunnit in this maze.

The plot, I have to admit, confused me at times. I got a bit lost not so much on who is who but on how everything was connected. We seemed to have several clues at once and I’m not entirely sure how we got onto each one. I don’t think it was poorly written, but I do think it’s a book that needs reading carefully or maybe reading twice to keep a track of the twists and turns. I’m not sure about some of the links and leaps Jane made, but that could be because I was flailing a little in the many threads.

Despite that – or perhaps, because of that – it was a good mystery. It’s complex but the clues – the many many many clues – are there. There’s a lot of information to piece together and some red herrings and distractions – but not many. All the information forms a part of the puzzle but the puzzle is so bemusing until all those pieces are together and you can see it as a whole. Again, it’s a book that would be worth a re-read just to see how the pieces are laid and fit the clues into the puzzle now I know what the full puzzle looks like.

Read More (less)

like · see review

Mar 29, 2012 Star (The Bibliophilic Book Blog) rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: reviewed

Jane's been through so much lately and now she's been called upon to deliver a message for Leo Pellissier, the Master of the City. In the meantime, weres have decided to make themselves known to the world - starting with were-cats, which is causing all sorts of complications. When she goes to deliver Leo's message, she's ambushed by a pack of werewolves. While she's fighting, unexpected assistance comes in the form of Girrard (Gee) - who used to be Leo's 'Mercy Blade'. Being a Mercy Blade is a v...more

like · see review

Mar 04, 2012 Janet Whalen-Jones rated it 5 of 5 stars

Jane Yellowrock is my new most fave series character. A Cherokee Skinwalker with 2 souls: one of the People and one of Puma Concolor. In this 3rd installment, we are seeing more of the supernatural species in our world, and beginning to understand personalities and politics. Set in an alternate Post Katrina New Orleans, where Vamps have been plentiful since Marilyn Monroe got busted trying to turn Jack Kennedy, they engage in clan warfare, and there is much more to Jane's magical world than meet...more

like · see review

Nov 08, 2011 Madame X rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: paranormal-urban-fantasy, vampires

I've considered dropping the Jane Yellowrock series. I liked books one and two, but I didn't love them, and MERCY BLADE wasn't the book pull me back on board. On the plus side, I'd forgotten how much I like the relationship between Jane and Beast. It's the best thing about this series.

On the negative side, I've always thought Jane's bark is worse than her bite and MERCY BLADE really highlights that flaw. Eery time Jane dresses, undresses, or passes through a security check we get a recitation o...more I've considered dropping the Jane Yellowrock series. I liked books one and two, but I didn't love them, and MERCY BLADE wasn't the book pull me back on board. On the plus side, I'd forgotten how much I like the relationship between Jane and Beast. It's the best thing about this series.

On the negative side, I've always thought Jane's bark is worse than her bite and MERCY BLADE really highlights that flaw. Eery time Jane dresses, undresses, or passes through a security check we get a recitation of the weapons she's wearing. If she's not arming herself, she's thinking about whether or not she's adequately armed, or worrying about not being adequately armed. Jane is a legitimate badass, but she oversells it to the point of being silly.

In MERCY BLADE, Faith Hunter introduces a couple of new, mythical creatures - a grindylow houseguest and the mysterious Gee - as well as werewolves. Hunter is great at worldbuilding but she lets the grindylow and Gee fall by the wayside while she focuses on the werewolves. As usual, she has a neat reason why werewolves are different from other shifters, but I thought the book was too busy. There's so much going on that there's no time to really get to know the new characters or what they're about; by the end, the only thing I knew about the main werewolf alpha was the color of his hair.

As far as romance is concerned, the book starts with a scene of connubial bliss between Rick and Jane. This worried me because I don't like Rick, but, luckily, right after that he disappears and doesn't show up again until nearly the end of the book. While Rick's away doing the undercover cop thing, Bruiser takes on the job of generating some sexual tension. Unfortunately, the best thing I can say about Bruiser is that I like him better than Rick and, yeah, that's not saying much.

This is my least favorite book in the series so far, though I ended up being glad that I read it - better to go back to characters I like and an author I can count on for a certain level of skill than keep trawling through the endless deluge of debuts.(less)

2 likes · like · see review

Aug 23, 2011 L-D rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: vampires, magic-witches-mages, shifters-weres, military-soldier-spec-ops, favorites, series

This was my favorite book of the series so far. I found the action to be riveting and the pace was great. I couldn't put it down until I finished it at 2:30 am. In this book, Leo is working through his delore (grieving over his dead son) and no longer blames Jane for his son's death. In fact, he hires her to be part of his security and she moves her things to New Orleans. In the last book, she made the choice between Bruiser and Rick. Since Bruiser is Leo's blood-servant, she knows that she will...more

1 like · like · see review

Jul 29, 2011 Book Binge Blog rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: for-review, roc-publishing, science-fiction-romance

The third installment in the Jane Yellowrock series, Mercy Blade is the best so far. For the time being, Jane moves to New Orleans so she can fulfill her contract with the vamps to beef up their security and so she can be closer to her boyfriend, Rick, an NOPD undercover cop. But she’s barely had time to set down her boxes when trouble comes a-knocking in the form of furry shapeshifters who’ve decided to come out of the proverbial closet and into the public eye.

I don’t really understand why Jane...more The third installment in the Jane Yellowrock series, Mercy Blade is the best so far. For the time being, Jane moves to New Orleans so she can fulfill her contract with the vamps to beef up their security and so she can be closer to her boyfriend, Rick, an NOPD undercover cop. But she’s barely had time to set down her boxes when trouble comes a-knocking in the form of furry shapeshifters who’ve decided to come out of the proverbial closet and into the public eye.

I don’t really understand why Jane’s working for the crazy vamps, especially after Leo tried to kill her earlier. He’s nothing but trouble, and he dumps it all over Jane. The now-out-in-the-world werecats are coming to New Orleans and, in a political maneuver, the vamps are having a party for them. With press coverage. Human press coverage. Security for this potential fiasco falls to Jane. Leo also asks Jane to meet up with someone for him, but doesn’t tell her anything else. Unfortunately for her, some very pissed off werewolves attack her and do their best to try and kill Leo’s messenger. Darned vamps. Always causing trouble.

Then Rick goes missing. He doesn’t answer any of Jane’s texts or voicemails, which gives Jane fits. She’s trying her best to stay loyal to Rick but this is made especially hard because Beast, Jane’s big cat self, insists cats are not meant to be monogamous. Beast wants Jane to get herself some of Bruiser, Leo’s head of security and primary blood servant. The sexual tension between Jane and Bruiser leaps off the page but, unfortunately, not much comes of it.

I'm with Beast. Jane needs to get her some of that hot Bruiser. Not that I think Jane should date Bruiser or anything. His loyalty is to Leo first and, despite any feelings he might have for her, Jane would always come second. As for Jane and Rick, they’re not a great couple and, personally, I don’t really see a future for them. There’s no real tension, no spark. They’re comfortable together but it seems like it’s more of a friends-with-benefits thing. I’m thinking she can do better than both of those guys but she may as well have a good time while they’re around. Live it up, Jane!

There’s so much going on in this story: vamp politics and power plays; murder and kidnapping; and new characters and creatures including big cat weres, grindylows, Molly’s witchy sister who’s staying with Jane, and Girrard, the vamps’ ex-Mercy Blade (someone who helps vamps stay sane and can heal them) and a creature unknown to Jane. As she watches the public reaction to the reveal of another supernatural creature, Jane is worried that her secret may come out soon. And she doesn’t really want everyone to know what she is though there is a little part of her that hopes another skinwalker might appear so she’s not the only one in the world. The plot gets a bit twisted and convoluted, which might be confusing if you haven’t read the prior two novels, but it shakes out in the end.

Filled with twists and turns, sexual tension, and revelations amidst a pile of action and one bad-assed chick decked out in leather and bristling with weapons, Mercy Blade rocks the urban fantasy genre.

Rating 4.5/5.0

This review was originally posted on Book Binge by Mary.(less)

like · see review

Mar 11, 2013 Maria rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: magic, vampires, werewolves

This was by far the best book in the series! A dark urban fantasy book in all its glory! Jane Yellowrock is definitely one of the best heroines in an urban fantasy series and a unique one.

When the story begins, Jane finds herself in a new situation: she has a boyfriend. While she’s trying to get used this new fact in her life, she’s having a new job to do for the master vampire Leo and Rick, her boyfriend, has to work undercover without telling her where/why/when. And then all hell breaks loose...more

like · see review

Mar 02, 2012 BamaGal rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: pnr-uf

In this book, Skinwalker Jane Yellowrock is firmly ensconced in New Orleans. She has recently taken on the job of rogue vampire hunter for Leo Pellissier, the Blood Master of the city. While on vacation with her bf, the undercover cop Rick LaFleur, she is called back to NO by Leo for a job. Seems the weres he had thrown out of the city years ago are back, and have come out to the human world, as vampires had a few years previously. When a high ranking were woman is killed, Leo sets Jane loose to...more

1 like · like · see review

Jul 13, 2011 MaryBookSwarm rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: roc

The third installment in the Jane Yellowrock series, Mercy Blade is the best so far. For the time being, Jane moves to New Orleans so she can fulfill her contract with the vamps to beef up their security and so she can be closer to her boyfriend, Rick, an NOPD undercover cop. But she’s barely had time to set down her boxes when trouble comes a-knocking in the form of furry shapeshifters who’ve decided to come out of the proverbial closet and into the public eye.

I don’t really understand why Jane...more The third installment in the Jane Yellowrock series, Mercy Blade is the best so far. For the time being, Jane moves to New Orleans so she can fulfill her contract with the vamps to beef up their security and so she can be closer to her boyfriend, Rick, an NOPD undercover cop. But she’s barely had time to set down her boxes when trouble comes a-knocking in the form of furry shapeshifters who’ve decided to come out of the proverbial closet and into the public eye.

I don’t really understand why Jane’s working for the crazy vamps, especially after Leo tried to kill her earlier. He’s nothing but trouble, and he dumps it all over Jane. The now-out-in-the-world werecats are coming to New Orleans and, in a political maneuver, the vamps are having a party for them. With press coverage. Human press coverage. Security for this potential fiasco falls to Jane. Leo also asks Jane to meet up with someone for him, but doesn’t tell her anything else. Unfortunately for her, some very ticked off werewolves attack her and do their best to try and kill Leo’s messenger. Darned vamps. Always causing trouble.

Then Rick goes missing. He doesn’t answer any of Jane’s texts or voicemails, which gives Jane fits. She’s trying her best to stay loyal to Rick but this is made especially hard because Beast, Jane’s big cat self, insists cats are not meant to be monogamous. Beast wants Jane to get herself some of Bruiser, Leo’s head of security and primary blood servant. The sexual tension between Jane and Bruiser leaps off the page but, unfortunately, not much comes of it.

I’m with Beast. Jane needs to get her some of that hot Bruiser. Not that I think Jane should date Bruiser or anything. His loyalty is to Leo first and, despite any feelings he might have for her, Jane would always come second. As for Jane and Rick, they’re not a great couple and, personally, I don’t really see a future for them. There’s no real tension, no spark. They’re comfortable together but it seems like it’s more of a friends-with-benefits thing. I’m thinking she can do better than both of those guys but she may as well have a good time while they’re around. Live it up, Jane!

There’s so much going on in this story: vamp politics and power plays; murder and kidnapping; and new characters and creatures including big cat weres, grindylows, Molly’s witchy sister who’s staying with Jane, and Girrard, the vamps’ ex-Mercy Blade (someone who helps vamps stay sane and can heal them) and a creature unknown to Jane. As she watches the public reaction to the reveal of another supernatural creature, Jane is worried that her secret may come out soon. And she doesn’t really want everyone to know what she is though there is a little part of her that hopes another skinwalker might appear so she’s not the only one in the world. The plot gets a bit twisted and convoluted, which might be confusing if you haven’t read the prior two novels, but it shakes out in the end.

Filled with twists and turns, sexual tension, and revelations amidst a pile of action and one hard-core chick decked out in leather and bristling with weapons, Mercy Blade rocks the urban fantasy genre.(less)

like · see review

Jul 05, 2011 Tara (box5angel) rated it 4 of 5 stars Recommends it for: urban fantasy fans and fans of bad-ass, kick-ass women

Recommended to Tara (box5angel) by: nobody

Shelves: books-i-own, urban-fantasy-or-paranormal-romance, 2011-finished-in, favorites

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

Wow, just wow! I think this one so far is the best of the bunch. So much going on but not in a jumbled up mess. lol Rick is missing. Jane still has feelings for Bruiser. The wolves and were-cats have come out of the closet. There is backstabbing, twists, turns, suspense, surprises. You don't know who to trust. My goodness! And that ending! WTF! Why, Faith Hunter, why leave us like that???? LOL I can't wait for the fourth book. Jane even shifts into another animal. I love her conversations w...more Done!

Wow, just wow! I think this one so far is the best of the bunch. So much going on but not in a jumbled up mess. lol Rick is missing. Jane still has feelings for Bruiser. The wolves and were-cats have come out of the closet. There is backstabbing, twists, turns, suspense, surprises. You don't know who to trust. My goodness! And that ending! WTF! Why, Faith Hunter, why leave us like that???? LOL I can't wait for the fourth book. Jane even shifts into another animal. I love her conversations with Beast. I have to admit, usually when Beast shifts, I'm not that into it. I'm like, I want more Jane, but in this I loved Beast (always liked her of course, though). And we get to see a jealous Beast. lol

What I do like about the books is that Beast and Jane share a body and can talk to each other. It's not like Jane shifts to Beast and is still Beast, she's in Beast but it's Beasts body and they can communicate. You don't get that a lot in Urban Fantasy. I think it's a brilliant concept.

Jane is feeling guilty over her feelings for Bruiser and that shower scene - kind of hot. I don't know who I ship her more with Bruiser or Rick. Rick has A LOT of explaining to do to Jane. I can't wait to hear what he has to tell her. Does Jane forgive him mainly because of what he's been through? Does she turn her back on him? She was leaving but he didn't want to see her and shows up at the end. I really felt bad for her when she didn't hear from him. And he did leave a clue though - the whole diner breakfast thing but still, he slept with those women (although, I think with Magnolia Sweets it was against his will, but not with Safia). How can you forgive that?

And with Bruiser he is with Leo (as his primo blood-servant) and will forever be with Leo and Jane doesn't share (that's another reason why she didn't sleep with Bruiser and also the fact that her Christian upbringing was making her feel guilty).

I love how we get to see Jane badass with her clothes and weapons. Love her hair. Everytime she mentioned the chainmail that she lost, I referred to the cover because she was actually wearing it on the cover.

Oh, and I like how she still goes to church and tries to be a good Christian but with her lifestyle it's hard and she feels guilt over that and debates about it. It's good to see that.

I know there is probably more I'm forgetting but I'm sad it's over. Book 4 please come soon. lol Gotta find out what's going on with that. (less)

like · see review

title link	preview: Mercy Blade
avg rating	preview: Mercy Blade Goodreads rating: 4.19 (5600 ratings)
small image	preview: click here [close]
med image	preview: click here [close]
BBCode	[url=http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/8100979-mercy-blade?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book][img]http://d.gr-assets.com/books/1311704427l/8100979.jpg[/img][/url] [url=http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/8100979-mercy-blade?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book]Mercy Blade by Faith Hunter[/url]

Mercy Blade (Jane Yellowrock #3)

Friend Reviews

Lists with This Book

Community Reviews

new topic
Discuss This Book

combine
Other Editions (5)

Genres

Readers also enjoyed similar books

About Faith Hunter

Books by Faith Hunter

Share This Book

Share This Book on Your Website

Trivia About Mercy Blade

Quotes from Mercy Blade