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Mercy Kilpatrick #2
A Merciful Truth
An Amazon Charts and Wall Street Journal bestseller.
Raised by a family of survivalists, FBI agent Mercy Kilpatrick can take on any challenge—even the hostile reception to her homecoming. But she’s not the only one causing chaos in the rural community of Eagle’s Nest, Oregon. At first believed to be teenage pranks, a series of fires takes a deadly turn with the murder of two sheriff’s deputies. Now, along with Police Chief Truman Daly, Mercy is on the hunt for an arsonist turned killer.
Still shunned by her family and members of the community, Mercy must keep her ear close to the ground to pick up any leads. And it’s not long before she hears rumors of the area’s growing antigovernment militia movement. If the arsonist is among their ranks, Mercy is determined to smoke the culprit out. But when her investigation uncovers a shocking secret, will this hunt for a madman turn into her own trial by fire?
Raised by a family of survivalists, FBI agent Mercy Kilpatrick can take on any challenge—even the hostile reception to her homecoming. But she’s not the only one causing chaos in the rural community of Eagle’s Nest, Oregon. At first believed to be teenage pranks, a series of fires takes a deadly turn with the murder of two sheriff’s deputies. Now, along with Police Chief Truman Daly, Mercy is on the hunt for an arsonist turned killer.
Still shunned by her family and members of the community, Mercy must keep her ear close to the ground to pick up any leads. And it’s not long before she hears rumors of the area’s growing antigovernment militia movement. If the arsonist is among their ranks, Mercy is determined to smoke the culprit out. But when her investigation uncovers a shocking secret, will this hunt for a madman turn into her own trial by fire?
311 pages, Paperback
First published June 6, 2017
9262 people are currently reading
5928 people want to read
About the author
Kendra Elliot
46 books6,279 followersAn Amazon #1 selling author, Kendra Elliot has sold over 14 Million books and been on the WSJ best seller more than a dozen times.
She grew up in the lush Pacific Northwest and still lives, but spends most of the time in the high desert in flip flops.
She grew up in the lush Pacific Northwest and still lives, but spends most of the time in the high desert in flip flops.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,036 reviews
May 1, 2018
Oh, this is just what I needed! Another series that I love and have to add to my list of must reads. In this, the second book in the series, what starts as some minor fires quickly turns into full out arson and two deputies are killed. This brings in the FBI, with Mercy Kirkpatrick being the main agent investigating the crimes.
I just really like Mercy and her backstory. Born to a family of preppers, but shunned by them since her late teens, she hasn’t been able to shed herself of the ideas she was raised with. And the hurt her family caused her makes it difficult for her to trust. Truman Daly, the local police chief, is not only involved with the investigation, but also with Mercy. And the addition of Kaley, Mercy’s niece and now responsibility, adds a whole new dimension as Mercy struggles to figure out how to handle a teenager and her hormones.
Kendra Elliot does a superb job painting the spectrum of anti-government sentiment in Eagle’s Nest, Oregon. Everything from the “why must I pay so much in taxes?” to a full out militia.
The ending here was great! Lots of moving parts but everything gets tied together in a believable way.
I would suggest reading the books in order as the first book, A Merciful Death, explains the reason for the shunning. I’m just so happy there are two more books in the series I haven’t read (book four to be published this June).
And I have got to say that Teri Schnaubelt is one of the best narrators I’ve ever heard. She does an amazing job of giving each character a different voice.
June 11, 2017
Good story,
Great characters, it goes from lowest of low of humanity to all the way up. FBI agent Mercy has a steel armor around her, but finally breaking down. If you read many books written by this author, you'll guess the ending.
Plot is about one man trying to build militia group, paranoid, isolated and wary of government. Will keep you you reading.
Great characters, it goes from lowest of low of humanity to all the way up. FBI agent Mercy has a steel armor around her, but finally breaking down. If you read many books written by this author, you'll guess the ending.
Plot is about one man trying to build militia group, paranoid, isolated and wary of government. Will keep you you reading.
April 16, 2020
It’s been two months since FBI Agent Mercy Kilpatrick’ s return to her hometown of Eagle’s Nest, Oregon and she’s adjusting to her relocation to the bureau’s Bend office. Additionally, she’s taken in her 17-year old niece, Kaylie, and is in a relationship with Police Chief Truman Daly. She and local law enforcement are responding to several nuisance fires, thinking they are the handiwork of area teens until it escalates and two deputy sheriffs are murdered. The investigation takes an ominous turn that involves people very close to Mercy.
I really like how this series continues to be a slow burn, meaning that Mercy’s reunion with her estranged family isn’t being resolved overnight and her relationship with Truman is progressing gradually, with all the normal considerations you’d expect in a new one. The setting, including the cultural lifestyles of the community, is one of the most important elements of the stories, including this one and I’m getting quite the education. It’s also realistic that even in a community where the majority of the residents share similar values, the shape of those perspectives can vary greatly. It’s at the heart of the matter here and Mercy’s troubles with her older brother, Owen, provide the perfect backdrop to illustrate them.
The tension and suspense in this story were off the charts. I developed a higher level of respect for Mercy after seeing her in action, specifically that she’s not only got a steel spine but a high functioning brain. Her skill in understanding human behavior helped her navigate some truly scary situations, and I can’t emphasize enough how terrified I was on her behalf. I’m loving the narrator as her performance is seriously enhancing my enjoyment and I highly recommend the audio format. Two books in and I’m loving this series.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
I really like how this series continues to be a slow burn, meaning that Mercy’s reunion with her estranged family isn’t being resolved overnight and her relationship with Truman is progressing gradually, with all the normal considerations you’d expect in a new one. The setting, including the cultural lifestyles of the community, is one of the most important elements of the stories, including this one and I’m getting quite the education. It’s also realistic that even in a community where the majority of the residents share similar values, the shape of those perspectives can vary greatly. It’s at the heart of the matter here and Mercy’s troubles with her older brother, Owen, provide the perfect backdrop to illustrate them.
The tension and suspense in this story were off the charts. I developed a higher level of respect for Mercy after seeing her in action, specifically that she’s not only got a steel spine but a high functioning brain. Her skill in understanding human behavior helped her navigate some truly scary situations, and I can’t emphasize enough how terrified I was on her behalf. I’m loving the narrator as her performance is seriously enhancing my enjoyment and I highly recommend the audio format. Two books in and I’m loving this series.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
June 3, 2018
This is a decent mystery. I hadn’t read the first book in the series, but the author caught me up quickly enough. FBI agent Mercy Kilpatrick relocates to Eagle’s Nest, Oregon. Her boyfriend is police chief Truman Daly.
She was raised by a family of survivalists, most of whom shun her for becoming an FBI agent. There is a strong community of folks who do not like the government, including cops. When a series of fires breaks out and three people are dead, Mercy and Truman have to figure out who is responsible, and their intrusion of asking questions makes them even less popular than they already were.
I liked the characters of Mercy and Truman well enough, but I didn’t fall in love with any of the characters or their problems. I wasn’t hanging on the edge of my seat for the agents to figure out who the bad guy(s) were. I doubt I’ll read another book in this series.
For more reviews, please visit: http://www.theresaalan.net/blog
She was raised by a family of survivalists, most of whom shun her for becoming an FBI agent. There is a strong community of folks who do not like the government, including cops. When a series of fires breaks out and three people are dead, Mercy and Truman have to figure out who is responsible, and their intrusion of asking questions makes them even less popular than they already were.
I liked the characters of Mercy and Truman well enough, but I didn’t fall in love with any of the characters or their problems. I wasn’t hanging on the edge of my seat for the agents to figure out who the bad guy(s) were. I doubt I’ll read another book in this series.
For more reviews, please visit: http://www.theresaalan.net/blog
March 16, 2020
now i am hooked. This was such a great, easy and creative book. i was hooked after the first page.
The characters were easy to fall in love with and follow, along with the story. the author made the mental visions so easy and vivid of the surroundings and the characters actions felt so real.
i would highly recommend this author and this book.
The characters were easy to fall in love with and follow, along with the story. the author made the mental visions so easy and vivid of the surroundings and the characters actions felt so real.
i would highly recommend this author and this book.
June 21, 2017
I really liked Ms. Elliot's first book in this series, A Merciful Death and couldn't wait to get my hands on book #2, A Merciful Truth. The Story line and the characters in this series feels fresh and new and not your run of the mill romantic suspense. For romance lovers, there is probably not enough romance. However, I prefer suspense with a dash of romance so for me it's a perfect fit.
Initially I though the book started a little slow as it reintroduced the characters from the 1st book, their relationships and some of the events from book #1. It also had to introduce a lot of new characters that weren't present in the first book. The recurring ones are primarily Mercy's family, her partner Eddie and her love interest police chief Truman Daly.
Then the plot started to reel me in and I didn't want to book the book down. When fires and murders start to happen, the FBI and Truman's department start looking into a local group with anti-government sentiments. Mercy's relationship with her family is a strong theme in this book and her conflict with her brother Owen was a really good element to the story line.
Although this book could be read as a stand-alone, the nuances of Mercy's family are better appreciated by reading Book #1 first. I will definitely continue to read this series and look forward to the next book.
Initially I though the book started a little slow as it reintroduced the characters from the 1st book, their relationships and some of the events from book #1. It also had to introduce a lot of new characters that weren't present in the first book. The recurring ones are primarily Mercy's family, her partner Eddie and her love interest police chief Truman Daly.
Then the plot started to reel me in and I didn't want to book the book down. When fires and murders start to happen, the FBI and Truman's department start looking into a local group with anti-government sentiments. Mercy's relationship with her family is a strong theme in this book and her conflict with her brother Owen was a really good element to the story line.
Although this book could be read as a stand-alone, the nuances of Mercy's family are better appreciated by reading Book #1 first. I will definitely continue to read this series and look forward to the next book.
June 20, 2017
FBI Agent Mercy Kilpatrick, having moved to Eagle's Nest, Oregon to be close to Police Chief Truman Daly is facing a dangerous arsonist turned killer.
Small fires have been set, generally thought to be by teenagers. Up until now, it's only been arson .... but since the fire starter has now killed two cops at one site, Mercy and Truman are looking for a murderer. And then another body is found at another fire .. only no one knows who this man is or why he is there.
Mercy is still considered an outsider ... although her entire family lives there, she was told years ago to leave and never come back. Most of her family believe she is the one who is responsible for a brother's death. No one wants to talk to her, let alone rat out anyone who may be responsible for the fires or the murders.
The only possible lead is a rumor of a man building what they call an anti-government movement. And when a 'prepper' is burned out, Mercy takes it personally, as she is also a prepper.
SO .... random fires, maybe started by teens with nothing better to do? Or ... are they looking at more than one perpetrator.. for the murders?
The closer Mercy and Truman get to the truth, long hidden secrets are exposed and the nearer to danger they become.
I have read many of this author's books and never been disappointed. Her plots are well thought out, well written, with interesting characters that come to life. There's always an element of romance, but mostly left to the imagination rather than being explicit.
There are no cliff hangers involved, so it's not necessary to start at the beginning ... but I highly recommend it.
Many thanks to the author / Montlake Romance / Netgalley. The opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
Small fires have been set, generally thought to be by teenagers. Up until now, it's only been arson .... but since the fire starter has now killed two cops at one site, Mercy and Truman are looking for a murderer. And then another body is found at another fire .. only no one knows who this man is or why he is there.
Mercy is still considered an outsider ... although her entire family lives there, she was told years ago to leave and never come back. Most of her family believe she is the one who is responsible for a brother's death. No one wants to talk to her, let alone rat out anyone who may be responsible for the fires or the murders.
The only possible lead is a rumor of a man building what they call an anti-government movement. And when a 'prepper' is burned out, Mercy takes it personally, as she is also a prepper.
SO .... random fires, maybe started by teens with nothing better to do? Or ... are they looking at more than one perpetrator.. for the murders?
The closer Mercy and Truman get to the truth, long hidden secrets are exposed and the nearer to danger they become.
I have read many of this author's books and never been disappointed. Her plots are well thought out, well written, with interesting characters that come to life. There's always an element of romance, but mostly left to the imagination rather than being explicit.
There are no cliff hangers involved, so it's not necessary to start at the beginning ... but I highly recommend it.
Many thanks to the author / Montlake Romance / Netgalley. The opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
May 25, 2017
FBI Agent Mercy Fitzpatrick has returned to her hometown of Eagle's Nest, Oregon to a chilly reception from her family. Mercy's family members are survivalists who believe in living off the land and being prepared for disaster. Not all of her siblings are speaking to her while others have welcomed her back with open arms. On top of being an FBI agent, Mercy is also raising her deceased brother's teenage daughter.
A series of fires have been set around the rural community and Mercy gets involved when two police officers are murdered while on the scene of a barn fire. Her boyfriend, Truman Daly; who just happens to be the police chief, is working the arson cases as well. While attempting to solve the case of the arson(s) and murders, Mercy and Truman learn that there is something else going on the community. A survivalist group that is anti-government, anti-police and anti-FBI is forming.
Kendra Elliot is a very underrated Author. She writes mystery/thrillers that will appeal to most readers. Her books are not graphic, there is not a lot of harsh language or any content that would turn off most readers. Kendra Elliot delivers time after time. This book is #2 in a series, but worked very well as a stand alone book. I really enjoyed learning Mercy's backstory and getting a glimpse into why Mercy's family is not very welcoming to her. This book was very well written. I enjoyed how the plot and subplots were all woven together. As the story unfolded, everything made sense, everything seemed plausible and this book was a good solid read. I found "A Merciful Truth" to be fast paced and enjoyable. Not only will I be reading the next book in this series, I will also be going back and reading the first book in this series. I really hope to see more people reading Kendra Elliott. I have read several of her books and they were all wonderful.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
See more of my reviews at www.openbookpost.com
A series of fires have been set around the rural community and Mercy gets involved when two police officers are murdered while on the scene of a barn fire. Her boyfriend, Truman Daly; who just happens to be the police chief, is working the arson cases as well. While attempting to solve the case of the arson(s) and murders, Mercy and Truman learn that there is something else going on the community. A survivalist group that is anti-government, anti-police and anti-FBI is forming.
Kendra Elliot is a very underrated Author. She writes mystery/thrillers that will appeal to most readers. Her books are not graphic, there is not a lot of harsh language or any content that would turn off most readers. Kendra Elliot delivers time after time. This book is #2 in a series, but worked very well as a stand alone book. I really enjoyed learning Mercy's backstory and getting a glimpse into why Mercy's family is not very welcoming to her. This book was very well written. I enjoyed how the plot and subplots were all woven together. As the story unfolded, everything made sense, everything seemed plausible and this book was a good solid read. I found "A Merciful Truth" to be fast paced and enjoyable. Not only will I be reading the next book in this series, I will also be going back and reading the first book in this series. I really hope to see more people reading Kendra Elliott. I have read several of her books and they were all wonderful.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
See more of my reviews at www.openbookpost.com
August 1, 2018
Fires originally mistaken as teenage pranks turn deadly and police officers lose their lives. The FBI assigns a team to investigate the murders in Eagle’s Nest, Oregon. Mercy along with Police Chief Truman Daly are hunting for the arsonist turned killer. The closer Mercy gets to the truth, the deadlier the hunt becomes.
Mercy was raised in a survivalist family until a disagreement led to her father and family shunning her. Since transferring to Bend she is beginning the process of reconnecting with her siblings and parents. It isn't easy, particularly with Mercy's career choice. Her brother Owen blames her for the events of the previous book and Mercy struggles not to blame herself.
Elliot does a delightful job of blending Mercy's daily life and trails within the community as Mercy investigates. It gives a nice balance to the suspenseful thread. Mercy is raising a teenager, and it scares the heck out of her as does the growing connection she feels with the local police chief.
As the reader we know who is responsible for the fires and killings which added suspense particularly as Mercy grew closer. Insider looks into different preppers from your average joe to secular groups were fascinating. It forced me to consider what I would do if everything shut down. I rarely carry cash or keep more than a weeks supply of food in my home. Sure, I prepped for Hurricanes and Snowstorms but this is quite bigger. What if the banks crashed? This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
Mercy was raised in a survivalist family until a disagreement led to her father and family shunning her. Since transferring to Bend she is beginning the process of reconnecting with her siblings and parents. It isn't easy, particularly with Mercy's career choice. Her brother Owen blames her for the events of the previous book and Mercy struggles not to blame herself.
Elliot does a delightful job of blending Mercy's daily life and trails within the community as Mercy investigates. It gives a nice balance to the suspenseful thread. Mercy is raising a teenager, and it scares the heck out of her as does the growing connection she feels with the local police chief.
As the reader we know who is responsible for the fires and killings which added suspense particularly as Mercy grew closer. Insider looks into different preppers from your average joe to secular groups were fascinating. It forced me to consider what I would do if everything shut down. I rarely carry cash or keep more than a weeks supply of food in my home. Sure, I prepped for Hurricanes and Snowstorms but this is quite bigger. What if the banks crashed? This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
June 8, 2017
Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) provided by the Author and Publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an fair and honest review
After reading A Merciful Death, I didn't know how I'd wait for this book. I had really hoped the slow simmer romance between Mercy and Truman would heat up to a boil in this book, but if you are looking for a scorched page romance, you'll need to read another book. Mercy and Truman are hooked up, but the author is keeping the juicy details private. What you get is a suspense that grabs you from the first page and doesn't let you go till the end.
Truman is called to the scene of an arson fore where he is joins two Deschutes County Sheriff deputies already on the scene. The old barn is a total loss, but they decide to walk the perimeter. Truman goes right and the deputies go left and end up being shot and killed. Fate. Truman is pretty shook up. This is the worst in a series of small arson fires that have plagued Eagle's Nest, OR.
Mercy is an FBI agent who grew up in a survivalist family outside of Eagle's Nest and has returned after leaving home at 18. She and Truman have started a relationship, but since Mercy now has custody of her 17 year old niece, Kaylie, she has limited time to see him. Mercy is trying to reestablish a relationship with her family, but that is going to take time.
This area is rife with survivalists, preppers and militia. Kaylie's boyfriend, Cade, is working for a local rancher with grand plans and a lot of angry men surrounding him, one of whom is Mercy's oldest brother, Owen. After another murder, Mercy pays a visit to the ranch and is met with outright hospitality, which Cade finds odd as she is only doing her job. He also overhears some disturbing information on top of discovering a cache of dynamite, but this job pays really well so he keeps his info to himself. Keeping yourself to yourself, minding your own business and a visceral dislike of law enforcement doesn't help Mercy and Truman as the seek to solve the murders.
After reading A Merciful Death, I didn't know how I'd wait for this book. I had really hoped the slow simmer romance between Mercy and Truman would heat up to a boil in this book, but if you are looking for a scorched page romance, you'll need to read another book. Mercy and Truman are hooked up, but the author is keeping the juicy details private. What you get is a suspense that grabs you from the first page and doesn't let you go till the end.
Truman is called to the scene of an arson fore where he is joins two Deschutes County Sheriff deputies already on the scene. The old barn is a total loss, but they decide to walk the perimeter. Truman goes right and the deputies go left and end up being shot and killed. Fate. Truman is pretty shook up. This is the worst in a series of small arson fires that have plagued Eagle's Nest, OR.
Mercy is an FBI agent who grew up in a survivalist family outside of Eagle's Nest and has returned after leaving home at 18. She and Truman have started a relationship, but since Mercy now has custody of her 17 year old niece, Kaylie, she has limited time to see him. Mercy is trying to reestablish a relationship with her family, but that is going to take time.
This area is rife with survivalists, preppers and militia. Kaylie's boyfriend, Cade, is working for a local rancher with grand plans and a lot of angry men surrounding him, one of whom is Mercy's oldest brother, Owen. After another murder, Mercy pays a visit to the ranch and is met with outright hospitality, which Cade finds odd as she is only doing her job. He also overhears some disturbing information on top of discovering a cache of dynamite, but this job pays really well so he keeps his info to himself. Keeping yourself to yourself, minding your own business and a visceral dislike of law enforcement doesn't help Mercy and Truman as the seek to solve the murders.
June 20, 2017
I have real issues with this series. The main character is a former anti-government survivalist turned FBI agent. Her misogynist father and patriarchal family abandoned her at 18. Yet the FBI first sends, then reassigns her to the area.
Most of the town resents any and all Law enforcement and as closed and secretive. Much of Mercy's family won't talk to her. But she is now the guardian for her 17 year old niece. Most of the women in the story need a good consciousness raising to learn that it is 2017 and not 1817. There are a couple of decent men but they are few and far between with the majority being violent assholes.
For a trained LE professional Mercy does a ton of stupid, dangerous stuff. And she is so emotionally broken from the ill treatment of her family she is unable to see when something good is in front of her.
Mercy should put in for a transfer to Louisiana or Hawaii and let her dysfunctional family rot.
Most of the town resents any and all Law enforcement and as closed and secretive. Much of Mercy's family won't talk to her. But she is now the guardian for her 17 year old niece. Most of the women in the story need a good consciousness raising to learn that it is 2017 and not 1817. There are a couple of decent men but they are few and far between with the majority being violent assholes.
For a trained LE professional Mercy does a ton of stupid, dangerous stuff. And she is so emotionally broken from the ill treatment of her family she is unable to see when something good is in front of her.
Mercy should put in for a transfer to Louisiana or Hawaii and let her dysfunctional family rot.
March 17, 2019
4.5 Stars
Really good! Loving this series.
Really good! Loving this series.
June 7, 2017
Kendra Elliot’s A MERCIFUL TRUTH delivers an intriguing mystery storyline focusing on with issues of trust, family relationships, and romance. Elliot’s protagonists FBI Special Agent, Mercy Kilpatrick and Truman Daly, Chief of Police of the Eagle’s Nest Police Department join forces to investigate a case of involving fires set by and serial arsonist that has escalates when two responding deputy sheriffs’ are shot and die at the scene. Elliot provides her readers with backstories for Mercy and Truman, including details of their connection with the prepper community. She also brings her readers up to speed regarding Mercy’s reasons for returning to Eagle’s Nest to help raise her niece and be close to Truman. The author skillfully shows the human side of Mercy and Truman as she continues adding additional information about them as the story proceeds
The fast moving storyline picks up momentum as Mercy begins her investigation into the two deputies’ deaths, the serial arsonists, and the rumors of developing militia group that could connect to domestic terrorism. Many prepper residents feel that government, on all levels are exercising to much control. Elliot creates subplots changing the storyline’s direction. She adds several twists and turns keeping her readers on edge as events unfold in the investigation. Elliot places her readers close to Mercy as she deals with issues relating to her niece and existing trust issues with members of her family. The author keeps the sharing details of the developing romance between Mercy and Truman. She attempts to help readers understand how the stress and strain of their current investigation affect Mercy and Truman’s relationship.
Kendra Elliot introduces several support characters who add to the suspense and intrigue of the storyline. The author gives details of each characters' history and their roles they play as she introduces them to the plot. Readers are dealing direction changes at the turn of each page. A MERCIFUL TRUTH keeps Elliot’s readers on pins and needles to the very unpredictable ending.
The fast moving storyline picks up momentum as Mercy begins her investigation into the two deputies’ deaths, the serial arsonists, and the rumors of developing militia group that could connect to domestic terrorism. Many prepper residents feel that government, on all levels are exercising to much control. Elliot creates subplots changing the storyline’s direction. She adds several twists and turns keeping her readers on edge as events unfold in the investigation. Elliot places her readers close to Mercy as she deals with issues relating to her niece and existing trust issues with members of her family. The author keeps the sharing details of the developing romance between Mercy and Truman. She attempts to help readers understand how the stress and strain of their current investigation affect Mercy and Truman’s relationship.
Kendra Elliot introduces several support characters who add to the suspense and intrigue of the storyline. The author gives details of each characters' history and their roles they play as she introduces them to the plot. Readers are dealing direction changes at the turn of each page. A MERCIFUL TRUTH keeps Elliot’s readers on pins and needles to the very unpredictable ending.
July 12, 2017
I received a copy of A Merciful Truth from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
A Merciful Truth is the second book in Kendra Elliot’s Mercy Kilpatrick series. While I really enjoyed the first book in the series, A Merciful Death, I found the sophomore entry to be less engaging. Following the events in book one, Mercy, an FBI agent, and her young partner, Eddie Peterson, have been transferred to the FBI office in Bend, Oregon. The move puts her closer to her estranged family and to the man she’s now in a relationship with, Truman Daly, the Police Chief of Eagle’s Nest, Oregon.
The story centers around several fires that have been set in Eagle’s Nest. The fires are small and seem more like the work of bored teenagers. No homes are targeted and no one has been physically hurt. That is, until two police officers are gunned down while responding to a barn fire. Truman is a witnesses to the cold-blooded murders and even tries to save one of the officers but there is nothing he can do. Mercy and Eddie join the investigation after the execution of the two officers. Things get more complicated after another officer is shot at when responding to yet another fire and when a dead man is found at the same scene.
While they investigate, Mercy is also trying to reconcile with her family. In the first book, it was revealed that she’d left town about fifteen years before and has had no contact with her family. She’s been trying to rebuild her relationship with them since she was first called to Eagle’s Nest for the previous case. Her mother and sisters have been more welcoming but her father and oldest brother are not willing to reconnect. She’s also taken in her niece who appeared intelligent in the first book but acts like a sullen, stupid teenager several times in this book. I really could have done without her. Her boyfriend, Cade, isn’t much smarter.
The previous book dealt with survivalists, people who stockpile supplies to prepare for the end of the world as we know it. There are references to them in A Merciful Truth but the driving force here is a militia. The members hate the government and law enforcement and are full of anger and resentment. They are a powder keg ready to explode.
It’s a great subject but I found the crime aspect often overshadowed by the sappy, almost teenage relationship between Mercy and Truman. I found myself skimming some of their scenes together because it was just too much for me. I’m not super into romance so it’s not surprising I grew tired of it but I felt it could be handled differently. Also, as in the first book, I feel the Eddie character should be used more. He’s described as a young city guy with fancy clothes and shoes and he’s been plunked down in the sticks - he’s definitely a fish out of water. He could be a comic relief element but he remains a secondary, underused character.
After such a good start to the series, I feel a bit let down by A Merciful Truth. The mystery/crime is good but the book as a whole is not as strong as its predecessor. The “twist” at the end is out of left field and on the weak side. It didn’t really shock me, it just felt forced. I had difficultly connecting with Mercy this time and grew frustrated with Truman. I will, however, continue to read the series because, though they test my patience, I do like the characters, and I feel the series has a lot of potential.
A Merciful Truth is the second book in Kendra Elliot’s Mercy Kilpatrick series. While I really enjoyed the first book in the series, A Merciful Death, I found the sophomore entry to be less engaging. Following the events in book one, Mercy, an FBI agent, and her young partner, Eddie Peterson, have been transferred to the FBI office in Bend, Oregon. The move puts her closer to her estranged family and to the man she’s now in a relationship with, Truman Daly, the Police Chief of Eagle’s Nest, Oregon.
The story centers around several fires that have been set in Eagle’s Nest. The fires are small and seem more like the work of bored teenagers. No homes are targeted and no one has been physically hurt. That is, until two police officers are gunned down while responding to a barn fire. Truman is a witnesses to the cold-blooded murders and even tries to save one of the officers but there is nothing he can do. Mercy and Eddie join the investigation after the execution of the two officers. Things get more complicated after another officer is shot at when responding to yet another fire and when a dead man is found at the same scene.
While they investigate, Mercy is also trying to reconcile with her family. In the first book, it was revealed that she’d left town about fifteen years before and has had no contact with her family. She’s been trying to rebuild her relationship with them since she was first called to Eagle’s Nest for the previous case. Her mother and sisters have been more welcoming but her father and oldest brother are not willing to reconnect. She’s also taken in her niece who appeared intelligent in the first book but acts like a sullen, stupid teenager several times in this book. I really could have done without her. Her boyfriend, Cade, isn’t much smarter.
The previous book dealt with survivalists, people who stockpile supplies to prepare for the end of the world as we know it. There are references to them in A Merciful Truth but the driving force here is a militia. The members hate the government and law enforcement and are full of anger and resentment. They are a powder keg ready to explode.
It’s a great subject but I found the crime aspect often overshadowed by the sappy, almost teenage relationship between Mercy and Truman. I found myself skimming some of their scenes together because it was just too much for me. I’m not super into romance so it’s not surprising I grew tired of it but I felt it could be handled differently. Also, as in the first book, I feel the Eddie character should be used more. He’s described as a young city guy with fancy clothes and shoes and he’s been plunked down in the sticks - he’s definitely a fish out of water. He could be a comic relief element but he remains a secondary, underused character.
After such a good start to the series, I feel a bit let down by A Merciful Truth. The mystery/crime is good but the book as a whole is not as strong as its predecessor. The “twist” at the end is out of left field and on the weak side. It didn’t really shock me, it just felt forced. I had difficultly connecting with Mercy this time and grew frustrated with Truman. I will, however, continue to read the series because, though they test my patience, I do like the characters, and I feel the series has a lot of potential.
April 4, 2019
Thank you, Luli, for introducing me to Kendra Elliot.
Survivalism, arson and murder are the main themes of A Merciful Truth. After finishing A Merciful Death, I recommend following the series and not attempt this story as a standalone. I enjoyed A Merciful Death but I really, really liked A Merciful Truth. This is why I read RS and suspenseful-thrillers. Though to be honest, it was heavier on the suspense with the romance taking a backseat at times.
I didn’t mind.
We see more of Mercy and Truman together: they are an interesting pair of protagonists who are romantically involved now. There was a slow but constant build of tension from day one because of arson and two law officers who were shot to death. We see more of Mercy’s Dysfunctional family with a capital D. It made me wonder how she was able to leave her family at the age of eighteen and become a stable adult. Yes, I know she has a few quirks but who wouldn’t?
I felt a rush towards the end that had me reading as fast as I could. And, lastly, a twist that I never saw coming. I can’t wait to see what happens next in Eagle’s Nest, Oregon.
Survivalism, arson and murder are the main themes of A Merciful Truth. After finishing A Merciful Death, I recommend following the series and not attempt this story as a standalone. I enjoyed A Merciful Death but I really, really liked A Merciful Truth. This is why I read RS and suspenseful-thrillers. Though to be honest, it was heavier on the suspense with the romance taking a backseat at times.
I didn’t mind.
We see more of Mercy and Truman together: they are an interesting pair of protagonists who are romantically involved now. There was a slow but constant build of tension from day one because of arson and two law officers who were shot to death. We see more of Mercy’s Dysfunctional family with a capital D. It made me wonder how she was able to leave her family at the age of eighteen and become a stable adult. Yes, I know she has a few quirks but who wouldn’t?
I felt a rush towards the end that had me reading as fast as I could. And, lastly, a twist that I never saw coming. I can’t wait to see what happens next in Eagle’s Nest, Oregon.
January 20, 2019
A MERCIFUL TRUTH (Mercy Kilpatrick #2) by Kendra Elliot is the newest book in this continuing romantic suspense/mystery/suspense series. I have been looking forward to reading more about Mercy!
FBI Special Agent Mercy Kilpatrick and her partner, Eddie have transferred to the Bend FBI field office. Eddie likes the wilderness of central Oregon over Portland and Mercy wants to be closer to Truman and her family. Mercy is getting closer to her sisters and mother, but her father and brother blame her for the violence and change in her family from book #1.
Eagle’s Nest Police Chief Truman Daly is investigating a series of small fires that he believes are being started by teenagers. When a barn is set on fire, everything changes when two county sheriffs are shot and killed when they respond. Arson has become murder. At the next fire the murdered body of an unidentified man is found at the scene. No one is talking and Mercy and Truman have no idea why these fires are being set or who is setting them.
As they investigate the unidentified dead man, Mercy’s niece is learning that the teenagers her new boyfriend is hanging out with are trouble and that her boyfriend is having second thoughts about working at his job on a large secluded ranch outside of town. There are rumors of many outside men coming to town and living on the ranch. Mercy’s brother is also somehow tied to the ranch and reciting a lot of anti-government hate rhetoric.
The closer Mercy and Truman get to the truth, long buried secrets are exposed and their personal danger escalates.
I loved Mercy in the first book and I am now hooked for good. Her character is so interesting. The balance between her life as an FBI agent and her hidden life as a prepper makes for very interesting reading. I love that Truman “gets” Mercy and her unique life and does not try to change her. Mercy’s family and all of the secondary characters are becoming more fleshed out and interesting. The plot builds in intensity and wraps everything up at the end. This book can be read as a standalone, but like so many other similar series, the relationships grow and change in each book as in real life, so I recommend reading them in order. This has become a must read series for me!
FBI Special Agent Mercy Kilpatrick and her partner, Eddie have transferred to the Bend FBI field office. Eddie likes the wilderness of central Oregon over Portland and Mercy wants to be closer to Truman and her family. Mercy is getting closer to her sisters and mother, but her father and brother blame her for the violence and change in her family from book #1.
Eagle’s Nest Police Chief Truman Daly is investigating a series of small fires that he believes are being started by teenagers. When a barn is set on fire, everything changes when two county sheriffs are shot and killed when they respond. Arson has become murder. At the next fire the murdered body of an unidentified man is found at the scene. No one is talking and Mercy and Truman have no idea why these fires are being set or who is setting them.
As they investigate the unidentified dead man, Mercy’s niece is learning that the teenagers her new boyfriend is hanging out with are trouble and that her boyfriend is having second thoughts about working at his job on a large secluded ranch outside of town. There are rumors of many outside men coming to town and living on the ranch. Mercy’s brother is also somehow tied to the ranch and reciting a lot of anti-government hate rhetoric.
The closer Mercy and Truman get to the truth, long buried secrets are exposed and their personal danger escalates.
I loved Mercy in the first book and I am now hooked for good. Her character is so interesting. The balance between her life as an FBI agent and her hidden life as a prepper makes for very interesting reading. I love that Truman “gets” Mercy and her unique life and does not try to change her. Mercy’s family and all of the secondary characters are becoming more fleshed out and interesting. The plot builds in intensity and wraps everything up at the end. This book can be read as a standalone, but like so many other similar series, the relationships grow and change in each book as in real life, so I recommend reading them in order. This has become a must read series for me!
June 20, 2020
Another winner from Kendra Elliot!
Loved this book, loved the suspense and the intrigue, and the undercurrent of romance between Truman and Mercy. Absolutely loved them!
Loved this book, loved the suspense and the intrigue, and the undercurrent of romance between Truman and Mercy. Absolutely loved them!
April 16, 2020
A series of arson fires in Eagle's Next has Police Chief Truman Daly worried. In the past weeks a car and a couple of sheds have been set on fire. Truman believes it may be a group of teens up to mischief until a barn fire leaves two deputies dead. FBI Special Agent Mercy Kilpatrick has recently moved back to Eagle's Nest to be close to Truman and to work on her strained relationship with her family. She is assigned to investigate the deputies' murders. Another fire yields yet another body. While investigating, Mercy hears rumors of an anti-government movement in the area. Could they be behind the murders?
After reading the first book in the Mercy Kilpatrick series, I was anxious to continue the series. This book does not disappoint. In the midst of working on this new case, Mercy is trying to re-establish a relationship with her siblings, and has taken in her 17-year-old niece, Kaylie. This is cutting into Mercy's time with Truman. I love Mercy and Truman. He understands her and knows that she needs time to accept him into her life.
The arson/murder plot had a lot of suspense. I couldn't put this book down. Can't wait to get to the next book in the series. My rating: 5 Stars.
After reading the first book in the Mercy Kilpatrick series, I was anxious to continue the series. This book does not disappoint. In the midst of working on this new case, Mercy is trying to re-establish a relationship with her siblings, and has taken in her 17-year-old niece, Kaylie. This is cutting into Mercy's time with Truman. I love Mercy and Truman. He understands her and knows that she needs time to accept him into her life.
The arson/murder plot had a lot of suspense. I couldn't put this book down. Can't wait to get to the next book in the series. My rating: 5 Stars.
March 30, 2020
A Merciful Truth by Kendra Elliot is book 2 in the Mercy Kilpatrick and Truman Daly series.
This series is definitely a fast read so far you can read one a day (or that's because I'm on lock down and have all the time in the world at the moment 🤦) but its definitely an easy, pacy read the story line is one of those that you can believe in happening.
Mercy and Truman have to investigate some local fires and the killing of 3 people and that's where the twists begin, nothing is what it would seem 😏
It's definitely worth reading 📖
This series is definitely a fast read so far you can read one a day (or that's because I'm on lock down and have all the time in the world at the moment 🤦) but its definitely an easy, pacy read the story line is one of those that you can believe in happening.
Mercy and Truman have to investigate some local fires and the killing of 3 people and that's where the twists begin, nothing is what it would seem 😏
It's definitely worth reading 📖
April 22, 2020
A fantastic addition to an awesome series! I've switched to audio in this series and am loving it! I hope to return with a full review but meantime...I highly recommend this book & series.
June 30, 2017
3.5 Better than the first. However, there were still a lot of problems. Questions weren't asked that even a passable cop would. It made Mercy and Truman appear incompetent at times. Ben the cop, I think his name was, walked into danger so easily after cops had been shot the night before. It was so obvious. Are the cops in that town that stupid? Kade thinks there are illegal activities and he goes there alone. Another stupid move. All of these were written to further the plot but come off as amateur crime writing. Better reasons for the characters actions could have been thought of. Plus Mercy never challenges her dad. She continues allowing this men elitist mentality. She lost points with me. Otherwise a decent read.
April 22, 2025
3.5 Stars
'A Merciful Truth’ (2017) is the second Mercy Kilpatrick book. I didn’t enjoy it as much as the first book ‘A Merciful Death’ but it was still entertaining enough for me to want to continue with the series.
Second books in a series can be a challenge. They lack the novelty of the first book and there hasn't yet been enough development of the core cast of characters to keep the reader engaged.
The first book centred around Preppers being murdered. The second book centred on fires and deaths associated with an emerging militia. Just as the first book took pains to show the appeal of the Prepper view of the world, the second book offered a more-empathetic-than-usual look into why and how militias are formed. The discontent and frustrations caused by an often remote Federal government imposing changes that affect the lives and the livelihoods of local people were explained and the 'We Are Freemen' rhetoric was given an airing. Even so, the wannabe militia men came off more as cult members than visionary patriots.
'A Merciful Truth' was more a thriller than a mystery. It was an OK thriller with some very tense moments towards the end but, for me, it had one twist too many in the plot. I also felt that Mercy got off lightly in a situation that could have been very ugly (I was glad of this. If the book had followed a darker path, I'd have been done with the series).
I sighed when the romance (which seemed over-blown and unrealistic to me.) inevitably took centre stage. Why do the romance bits always focus so much on eye colour? Still, I was grateful that Kendra Elliot kept the romance to a simmer.
One of the things that draws me to this series is Mercy's complicated relationship with her Prepper family. I was pleased that Mercy's relationships with her sisters, her niece and her mother all moved forward. Her father and her brother will be tougher nuts to crack.
I've downloaded the third book 'A Merciful Secret', which has Mercy investigating ritual killings, to listen to in May.
'A Merciful Truth’ (2017) is the second Mercy Kilpatrick book. I didn’t enjoy it as much as the first book ‘A Merciful Death’ but it was still entertaining enough for me to want to continue with the series.
Second books in a series can be a challenge. They lack the novelty of the first book and there hasn't yet been enough development of the core cast of characters to keep the reader engaged.
The first book centred around Preppers being murdered. The second book centred on fires and deaths associated with an emerging militia. Just as the first book took pains to show the appeal of the Prepper view of the world, the second book offered a more-empathetic-than-usual look into why and how militias are formed. The discontent and frustrations caused by an often remote Federal government imposing changes that affect the lives and the livelihoods of local people were explained and the 'We Are Freemen' rhetoric was given an airing. Even so, the wannabe militia men came off more as cult members than visionary patriots.
'A Merciful Truth' was more a thriller than a mystery. It was an OK thriller with some very tense moments towards the end but, for me, it had one twist too many in the plot. I also felt that Mercy got off lightly in a situation that could have been very ugly (I was glad of this. If the book had followed a darker path, I'd have been done with the series).
I sighed when the romance (which seemed over-blown and unrealistic to me.) inevitably took centre stage. Why do the romance bits always focus so much on eye colour? Still, I was grateful that Kendra Elliot kept the romance to a simmer.
One of the things that draws me to this series is Mercy's complicated relationship with her Prepper family. I was pleased that Mercy's relationships with her sisters, her niece and her mother all moved forward. Her father and her brother will be tougher nuts to crack.
I've downloaded the third book 'A Merciful Secret', which has Mercy investigating ritual killings, to listen to in May.
February 5, 2020
3,5 / 5
Kötü adam ile ilgili son anda çıkan detaya ne derece gerek vardı ki 🤔
Kötü adam ile ilgili son anda çıkan detaya ne derece gerek vardı ki 🤔
October 17, 2024
Second book just as good as the first. I am starting to feel like I know this town and these people. The world building and characterization are fantastic. I also really enjoy the insight into groups of people and their localized cultures that we normally wouldn't see in these types of books. We aren't in a city or a typical middle America small town. A town of preppers, anti-government, and militia, with that same people-supporting-people that you find in any small town.
As far as slow-burn romantic suspense goes, this is a high recommendation.
As far as slow-burn romantic suspense goes, this is a high recommendation.
August 29, 2024
Na, o mes su FTB agente Merse Kilpatrik susitikome vėl. Ji vėl vedžiojo po uždaro miestelio gyvenimo vingius, supažindino su “pasiruošusių” žmonių bendruomene ir įsivėlė į tikrą detektyvą. Tai buvo antras šansas rašytojai Kendrai Elliot, nes pirma pažintis su Merse nebuvo tokia, kad su nekantrumu laukčiau antrosios dalies.
Na, bet po truputį įsivažaivau. Šioje dalyje vėl viskas sukasi apie Mersę, jos vaikystę ir “pasiruošusių” bendruomenei priklausiusančius jos tėvus, brolius, seserį… Rašytoja rutulioja ir pačios agentės meilės istoriją su vietiniu policijos viršininku, dėl kurio ji apsistojo savo gimtinėje. Na, ir žinoma, gaisrai, lavonai ir kiti dalykėliai šalia viso to. Kadangi nelaimės vyksta viena po kitos, skubama išsiaiškinti kaltininkus.
Kaip ten bebūtų bet JAV kultūra Europiečiams ne visad artima. Nors esame ir maitinami amerikietišku kinu, amerikietiško gyvenimo idealizavimu, bet kai kurie aspektai leika tolimi. Niekad nesupratau būrimosi į uždaras bendruomenes. Raidikalias, prieštaraujančias ir su kokiu puspročiu lyderiu. Kiesta, kad atsiranda grupė žmonių nekvescionuoja vertybių - tiesiog nori paklusti lyderiui. O šis trileris būtent apie grupuotes. Nuo senų iki naujų, o gal tik užmirštų…
O pats trileris tai visai neblogai sukaltas. Netrūko siužeto posūkių, paslapčių lendančių paviršiun. Veikėjai buvo gana logiški ir dėliojosi viskas viena kryptimi, o po to buvo pasukta į priešingą pusę ir visa pabaiga išgelbėjo.
O mano įspūdis - tai nėra wow, kur nenori pabaigti. Nebuvo ir labai blogai. Toks per vidurį trileris, kurio daugiau į tą gerą pusę. Turbūt kad skaitysiu ir trečią dalį, jei tik išleis.
Na, bet po truputį įsivažaivau. Šioje dalyje vėl viskas sukasi apie Mersę, jos vaikystę ir “pasiruošusių” bendruomenei priklausiusančius jos tėvus, brolius, seserį… Rašytoja rutulioja ir pačios agentės meilės istoriją su vietiniu policijos viršininku, dėl kurio ji apsistojo savo gimtinėje. Na, ir žinoma, gaisrai, lavonai ir kiti dalykėliai šalia viso to. Kadangi nelaimės vyksta viena po kitos, skubama išsiaiškinti kaltininkus.
Kaip ten bebūtų bet JAV kultūra Europiečiams ne visad artima. Nors esame ir maitinami amerikietišku kinu, amerikietiško gyvenimo idealizavimu, bet kai kurie aspektai leika tolimi. Niekad nesupratau būrimosi į uždaras bendruomenes. Raidikalias, prieštaraujančias ir su kokiu puspročiu lyderiu. Kiesta, kad atsiranda grupė žmonių nekvescionuoja vertybių - tiesiog nori paklusti lyderiui. O šis trileris būtent apie grupuotes. Nuo senų iki naujų, o gal tik užmirštų…
O pats trileris tai visai neblogai sukaltas. Netrūko siužeto posūkių, paslapčių lendančių paviršiun. Veikėjai buvo gana logiški ir dėliojosi viskas viena kryptimi, o po to buvo pasukta į priešingą pusę ir visa pabaiga išgelbėjo.
O mano įspūdis - tai nėra wow, kur nenori pabaigti. Nebuvo ir labai blogai. Toks per vidurį trileris, kurio daugiau į tą gerą pusę. Turbūt kad skaitysiu ir trečią dalį, jei tik išleis.
January 8, 2018
I liked this. I remembered the characters and the world very well from the first book. I only vaguely remembered the mystery/ homicide case.
I like the main character Mercy. She's smart and careful rather than stupid. Although thinking she knows people because they are like her family - preppers - she gets herself into a bit of trouble. The villain was clear throughout this story and the twists were more on her personal life. It was good and I like the character growth.
I like the main character Mercy. She's smart and careful rather than stupid. Although thinking she knows people because they are like her family - preppers - she gets herself into a bit of trouble. The villain was clear throughout this story and the twists were more on her personal life. It was good and I like the character growth.
March 4, 2020
I did not enjoy reading about a militia of misogynistic white assholes and none of the rest of the story made up for it.
But I am glad Mercy has made some strides with her family/community and will give further stories a try.
April 14, 2024
Dar įdomesnė nei pirma knyga. Skaitėsi greit, buvo daugiau veiksmo ir šiek tiek netikėta pabaiga.
June 28, 2024
3.5 Stars!
This one was okay but I'm just not a huge fan of the whole prepping community setting. I hope the next in the series is not as focused on it as this one, I do like the characters and would like to see where this series goes.
This one was okay but I'm just not a huge fan of the whole prepping community setting. I hope the next in the series is not as focused on it as this one, I do like the characters and would like to see where this series goes.
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