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Ellery Hathaway #2
No Mercy
Police officer Ellery Hathaway and FBI profiler Reed Markham take on two difficult new cases in this stunning follow-up to The Vanishing Season.
Police officer Ellery Hathaway is on involuntary leave from her job because she shot a murderer in cold blood and refuses to apologize for it. Forced into group therapy for victims of violent crime, Ellery immediately finds higher priorities than "getting in touch with her feelings."
For one, she suspects a fellow group member may have helped to convict the wrong man for a deadly arson incident years ago. For another, Ellery finds herself in the desperate clutches of a woman who survived a brutal rape. He is still out there, this man with the Spider-Man-like ability to climb through bedroom windows, and his victim beseeches Ellery for help in capturing her attacker.
Ellery seeks advice from her friend, FBI profiler Reed Markham, who liberated her from a killer's closet when she was a child. Reed remains drawn to this unpredictable woman, the one he rescued but couldn't quite save. The trouble is, Reed is up for a potential big promotion, and his boss has just one condition for the new job―stay away from Ellery. Ellery ignores all the warnings. Instead, she starts digging around in everyone's past but her own―a move that, at best, could put her out of work permanently, and at worst, could put her in the city morgue.
Police officer Ellery Hathaway is on involuntary leave from her job because she shot a murderer in cold blood and refuses to apologize for it. Forced into group therapy for victims of violent crime, Ellery immediately finds higher priorities than "getting in touch with her feelings."
For one, she suspects a fellow group member may have helped to convict the wrong man for a deadly arson incident years ago. For another, Ellery finds herself in the desperate clutches of a woman who survived a brutal rape. He is still out there, this man with the Spider-Man-like ability to climb through bedroom windows, and his victim beseeches Ellery for help in capturing her attacker.
Ellery seeks advice from her friend, FBI profiler Reed Markham, who liberated her from a killer's closet when she was a child. Reed remains drawn to this unpredictable woman, the one he rescued but couldn't quite save. The trouble is, Reed is up for a potential big promotion, and his boss has just one condition for the new job―stay away from Ellery. Ellery ignores all the warnings. Instead, she starts digging around in everyone's past but her own―a move that, at best, could put her out of work permanently, and at worst, could put her in the city morgue.
307 pages, Hardcover
First published January 15, 2019
266 people are currently reading
4595 people want to read
About the author
Joanna Schaffhausen
12 books1,216 followersJoanna Schaffhausen wields a mean scalpel, skills she developed in her years studying neuroscience. She has a doctorate in psychology, which reflects her long-standing interest in the brain―how it develops and the many ways it can go wrong. Previously, she worked as a scientific editor in the field of drug development. Prior to that, she was an editorial producer for ABC News, writing for programs such as World News Tonight, Good Morning America, and 20/20. She lives in the Boston area with her husband, daughter, and an obstreperous basset hound.
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July 6, 2022
No Mercy is another fine offering in the Ellery Hathaway series. Police officer Ellery Hathaway and FBI profiler Reed Markham are back, in this second book in the series. Ellery is living in an apartment in Boston, away from her job, having to attend group therapy due to shooting a serial killer, in cold blood, last summer, and not apologizing for doing so. She immediately begins looking into the cases of two women in her victims therapy group and asks Reed for his help, because his expertise and resources as an FBI agent can open doors that are shut or have never been open to Ellery.
Ellery tends to do things her way, often the most dangerous way and I usually roll my eyes when a main character throws themselves into obvious, unneeded danger but in Ellery's case, she thinks she's living on borrowed time, that she shouldn't even be alive anyway. The torture, rape, and continued emotional abuse thrown at her from the behind bars, serial killer that killed sixteen girls before she was rescued, will never leave Ellery. She doesn't understand why she was the one to live and she can't ever stop allowing what happened to her when she was fourteen, to color all of her present life. So Ellery throws herself at these two cases, an arson, that killed a two year old boy, over twenty five years ago and a rape that took place in the past year.
Reed risks his potential promotion with the FBI, to help Ellery. Rescuing Ellery from her serial killer has affected him forever also. The rescue and the book he wrote about it has made him a hero, although he later fell from grace. Still he can never stop trying to rescue Ellery, from the danger she runs headlong into and from herself.
Pub January 15, 2019.
Thank you to St. Martin's Press/Minotaur Books and NetGalley for this ARC.
Ellery tends to do things her way, often the most dangerous way and I usually roll my eyes when a main character throws themselves into obvious, unneeded danger but in Ellery's case, she thinks she's living on borrowed time, that she shouldn't even be alive anyway. The torture, rape, and continued emotional abuse thrown at her from the behind bars, serial killer that killed sixteen girls before she was rescued, will never leave Ellery. She doesn't understand why she was the one to live and she can't ever stop allowing what happened to her when she was fourteen, to color all of her present life. So Ellery throws herself at these two cases, an arson, that killed a two year old boy, over twenty five years ago and a rape that took place in the past year.
Reed risks his potential promotion with the FBI, to help Ellery. Rescuing Ellery from her serial killer has affected him forever also. The rescue and the book he wrote about it has made him a hero, although he later fell from grace. Still he can never stop trying to rescue Ellery, from the danger she runs headlong into and from herself.
Pub January 15, 2019.
Thank you to St. Martin's Press/Minotaur Books and NetGalley for this ARC.
February 23, 2019
⭐️ 4 WOOT! I found a new series to LOVE stars!
❤️
Ellery Hathaway has a tendency to run head first into trouble. Once a victim of a sadistic serial killer who abducted her and held her hostage she is now a champion of victims. Only problem is she is currently on mandated leave from her job in law enforcement after shooting a murderer. Of course, that doesn't stop her from delving in to help those in need.
As part of her suspension Ellery must attend therapy sessions. As part of her therapy she attends group sessions where she meets victims of violent crimes. Of course, instead of delving deep and looking inward Ellery gets drawn into not 1 but 2 cases.
Wendy was brutally raped and her assailant never caught. She is unable to move on, living in constant fear that he will return for her. Can this sexual predator be caught before there are more victims?
Mayra is the lone survivor of a fire that destroyed her family's business, claimed the life of her young son and left her wheelchair bound and both physically and emotionally scarred. The man who was arrested for the fire is up for parole and his lawyer claims he was innocent. Is he? What really happened that fateful night and who was responsible?
Without her police resources at her disposal Ellery is limited in what she can do but there is no doubt that she has to help. What's a girl to do but call on her favorite FBI agent, Reed Markham for assistance.
I absolutely love the tangled relationship between these two. What are they? Friends? Hero and Victim/Survivor? Professional Acquaintances? Or is there more brimming beneath the sexually charged surface?
Both of the mysteries were compelling packed with tense moments for both Ellery and Reed. Ellery is a strong female lead (which I'm a HUGE fan of!) facing emotional demons from her tortured past. You can't help but root for her even when you want to shake her for being reckless! Reed is the calm to her storm. He just can't seem to stay away from this girl he once saved. The bond they share, the bubbling emotions simmering just beneath their interactions all add up to an amazing duo that I want to see lots more of - bring on Book 3!
Thank you to Joanna Schaffhausen, St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for providing me with an arc of this book to review.
Ellery Hathaway has a tendency to run head first into trouble. Once a victim of a sadistic serial killer who abducted her and held her hostage she is now a champion of victims. Only problem is she is currently on mandated leave from her job in law enforcement after shooting a murderer. Of course, that doesn't stop her from delving in to help those in need.
As part of her suspension Ellery must attend therapy sessions. As part of her therapy she attends group sessions where she meets victims of violent crimes. Of course, instead of delving deep and looking inward Ellery gets drawn into not 1 but 2 cases.
Wendy was brutally raped and her assailant never caught. She is unable to move on, living in constant fear that he will return for her. Can this sexual predator be caught before there are more victims?
Mayra is the lone survivor of a fire that destroyed her family's business, claimed the life of her young son and left her wheelchair bound and both physically and emotionally scarred. The man who was arrested for the fire is up for parole and his lawyer claims he was innocent. Is he? What really happened that fateful night and who was responsible?
Without her police resources at her disposal Ellery is limited in what she can do but there is no doubt that she has to help. What's a girl to do but call on her favorite FBI agent, Reed Markham for assistance.
I absolutely love the tangled relationship between these two. What are they? Friends? Hero and Victim/Survivor? Professional Acquaintances? Or is there more brimming beneath the sexually charged surface?
Both of the mysteries were compelling packed with tense moments for both Ellery and Reed. Ellery is a strong female lead (which I'm a HUGE fan of!) facing emotional demons from her tortured past. You can't help but root for her even when you want to shake her for being reckless! Reed is the calm to her storm. He just can't seem to stay away from this girl he once saved. The bond they share, the bubbling emotions simmering just beneath their interactions all add up to an amazing duo that I want to see lots more of - bring on Book 3!
Thank you to Joanna Schaffhausen, St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for providing me with an arc of this book to review.
December 21, 2018
4.25*
I am so happy to have a new series to enjoy!
This is book 2 of the Ellery Hathaway series, but no worries if you want to jump right in! It easily stands on its own! Joanna Schaffhausen cleverly gives enough detailed background that will make it possible to put you into the middle of the action.
Ellery has seen more than her fair share of horror. Remarkably, she’s survived a serial killers’ attempts on her life. On not one, but two separate occasions!
She is currently on leave from the police department while she completes her department-mandated therapy.
Except sending Ellery to therapy doesn’t quite achieve the Zen-like, inner-peace they were hoping for. Just the opposite! She’s made it her personal mission to help two women from her therapy group, putting her own need for help on the back-burner.
Wendy was brutally raped and left a shell of the woman and the person she was. Her rapist never caught. Can Ellery bring this animal to justice and give Wendy her life back?
Myra is confined to a wheelchair, covered in severe burns. She still mourns the loss of her dear, young son who died in the fire. The arsonist just came up for parole. Can she find enough reasons to keep him behind bars? But is that really where he belongs?
Ellery calls on her long-time confidant, close friend and FBI agent Reed Markham to return to Boston to help re-examine both these cases. Of course, Reed cannot say no. He can never say no to Ellery!
But is that purely for professional reasons? Hmmmm…🤔
Joanna Schaffhausen writes a powerful, suspenseful read that I quickly devoured in just a couple sittings.
Fasten your seat-belts…Oh my gosh, the ending!!
WOW! I cannot wait for book 3!!
A buddy read with Susanne!☃️
Thank you to Danielle Prielipp at St. Martin’s Press- Minotaur Books via NetGalley and Joanna Schaffhausen for an ARC to read and review.
I am so happy to have a new series to enjoy!
This is book 2 of the Ellery Hathaway series, but no worries if you want to jump right in! It easily stands on its own! Joanna Schaffhausen cleverly gives enough detailed background that will make it possible to put you into the middle of the action.
Ellery has seen more than her fair share of horror. Remarkably, she’s survived a serial killers’ attempts on her life. On not one, but two separate occasions!
She is currently on leave from the police department while she completes her department-mandated therapy.
Except sending Ellery to therapy doesn’t quite achieve the Zen-like, inner-peace they were hoping for. Just the opposite! She’s made it her personal mission to help two women from her therapy group, putting her own need for help on the back-burner.
Wendy was brutally raped and left a shell of the woman and the person she was. Her rapist never caught. Can Ellery bring this animal to justice and give Wendy her life back?
Myra is confined to a wheelchair, covered in severe burns. She still mourns the loss of her dear, young son who died in the fire. The arsonist just came up for parole. Can she find enough reasons to keep him behind bars? But is that really where he belongs?
Ellery calls on her long-time confidant, close friend and FBI agent Reed Markham to return to Boston to help re-examine both these cases. Of course, Reed cannot say no. He can never say no to Ellery!
But is that purely for professional reasons? Hmmmm…🤔
Joanna Schaffhausen writes a powerful, suspenseful read that I quickly devoured in just a couple sittings.
Fasten your seat-belts…Oh my gosh, the ending!!
WOW! I cannot wait for book 3!!
A buddy read with Susanne!☃️
Thank you to Danielle Prielipp at St. Martin’s Press- Minotaur Books via NetGalley and Joanna Schaffhausen for an ARC to read and review.
November 23, 2021
Ellery Hathaway is a “final girl”.
Saved, by FBI profiler, Reed Markham, just in time, when she was just a young girl. Her story is told in “The Vanishing” and this book is #2 in the series.
Now, all grown up, she is a Police Officer, on involuntary leave because she shot a Murderer in cold blood, and isn’t showing remorse. She is ordered to attend counseling, before she can return to work.
Ellery is either, BRAVE or RECKLESS.
She is either very IMMATURE, or SOCIALLY AWKWARD.
But, one thing she isn’t is “open to talking about her feelings”.
So, she manages to find not one, but TWO cases, amongst her fellow “group therapy” members, which need some attention, and she just so happens to have some free time.
What she doesn’t have is the “resources” she needs, so she calls up, the only man she trusts, Reed Markham, and reunites with him for the second time, since becoming a Cop, hoping to persuade him to help…again.
Reed has a soft spot for Ellery-the girl he feels he “rescued” but wasn’t able to “save”, so he arrives on the scene and together they will look for an elusive rapist, and investigate an Arson.
The story is fast paced, and engaging and my only issue with the series is that although my heart goes out to Ellery, and what she endured as a child-I wish she would find romance elsewhere. It seems like these two are destined to become a couple as the series continues, and it is off-putting to me.
3.5 ⭐️
A buddy read with DeAnn.so be sure to watch for her wonderful review! We have two more to read before we are caught up, and ready to read #5, “Last Seen Alive” publishing January 25, 2022.
A thank you to my local library for the loan of this title!
Saved, by FBI profiler, Reed Markham, just in time, when she was just a young girl. Her story is told in “The Vanishing” and this book is #2 in the series.
Now, all grown up, she is a Police Officer, on involuntary leave because she shot a Murderer in cold blood, and isn’t showing remorse. She is ordered to attend counseling, before she can return to work.
Ellery is either, BRAVE or RECKLESS.
She is either very IMMATURE, or SOCIALLY AWKWARD.
But, one thing she isn’t is “open to talking about her feelings”.
So, she manages to find not one, but TWO cases, amongst her fellow “group therapy” members, which need some attention, and she just so happens to have some free time.
What she doesn’t have is the “resources” she needs, so she calls up, the only man she trusts, Reed Markham, and reunites with him for the second time, since becoming a Cop, hoping to persuade him to help…again.
Reed has a soft spot for Ellery-the girl he feels he “rescued” but wasn’t able to “save”, so he arrives on the scene and together they will look for an elusive rapist, and investigate an Arson.
The story is fast paced, and engaging and my only issue with the series is that although my heart goes out to Ellery, and what she endured as a child-I wish she would find romance elsewhere. It seems like these two are destined to become a couple as the series continues, and it is off-putting to me.
3.5 ⭐️
A buddy read with DeAnn.so be sure to watch for her wonderful review! We have two more to read before we are caught up, and ready to read #5, “Last Seen Alive” publishing January 25, 2022.
A thank you to my local library for the loan of this title!
November 6, 2018
I read the first in the series The Vanishing Season and loved it! Of course, I had to get my hands on the second in the series and Ellery she never disappoints ;).
First off, can I just saw how much I love Ellery's dog Speed Bump?! Ugh... my heart <3.
Ellery Hathaway has been suspended from her job as a cop due to killing a vile man that was a psychopath. Hathaway has quite the childhood trauma herself from being targeted by a serial killer that now sits on death row for targeting her as child and many other girls.
Hathaway can never get away from her past and the trauma that she endured. She takes on cases to help other victims that have experienced trauma like her. Hathaway is ordered to do group therapy sessions to come back to work after killing a vile man in the last case she solved.
Hathaway soon finds herself involved in some of the individuals of her group therapy where the violent crimes haven't been solved which include brutal assault and losing a son that was burned a fire years ago.
Of course... Hathaway can't solve her crimes without FBI profiler/agent Markham Reed who pulled her out of that closet years ago.
Joanna definitely doesn't leave her readers without tension, anxiety, and relationships that flourish. She does it again with this high packed tension mystery!
I'd recommend starting from book 1 to get the background story for Hathaway and Markham Reed.
Huge thank you to Minotaur/St. Martin's Press for the arc in exchange for my honest review.
Published to GR: 11/6/18
Publication date: 1/15/19
First off, can I just saw how much I love Ellery's dog Speed Bump?! Ugh... my heart <3.
Ellery Hathaway has been suspended from her job as a cop due to killing a vile man that was a psychopath. Hathaway has quite the childhood trauma herself from being targeted by a serial killer that now sits on death row for targeting her as child and many other girls.
Hathaway can never get away from her past and the trauma that she endured. She takes on cases to help other victims that have experienced trauma like her. Hathaway is ordered to do group therapy sessions to come back to work after killing a vile man in the last case she solved.
Hathaway soon finds herself involved in some of the individuals of her group therapy where the violent crimes haven't been solved which include brutal assault and losing a son that was burned a fire years ago.
Of course... Hathaway can't solve her crimes without FBI profiler/agent Markham Reed who pulled her out of that closet years ago.
Joanna definitely doesn't leave her readers without tension, anxiety, and relationships that flourish. She does it again with this high packed tension mystery!
I'd recommend starting from book 1 to get the background story for Hathaway and Markham Reed.
Huge thank you to Minotaur/St. Martin's Press for the arc in exchange for my honest review.
Published to GR: 11/6/18
Publication date: 1/15/19
October 16, 2018
I started reading No Mercy on 10/7/2018 and finished it on 10/16/2018. This book is a fantastic read! The plot is intriguing and I just couldn’t get enough of the main characters’ working relationship, their sharp tongue at each other and at interrogations is exhilarating. I like Ellery’s dog, Speed Bump’s role in both books. It’s been almost a year since I read the first book and I’m glad that the author brings back snippets of what happened scattering around in this book. I like how Ellery continues to move on with her life despite the constant threats she received. I like the career discussions in this story as well as family troubles.
This book is told in the third person point of view following Ellery Hathaway as she makes her way to a group meeting for survivors of violent crimes. She can’t continue her job as a police officer until she attend this meeting the court mandated. At the meeting, she meets Wendy, who was raped but the rapist got away. Ellery also meets Myra, who survived a fire from a burning building while the arsonist stand by to watch. Ellery’s secret life in this book is now all over the news and she can sympathize with these two survivors. Wendy is reaching out to Ellery to help her catch her rapist. The second point of view is Agent Reed Markham, FBI Profiler well known for his role in rescuing one victim from a serial killer. As Ellery digs around the arsonist case, she found herself being threatened and her truck is set on fire.
No Mercy is very well written and a fast paced read! I couldn’t put the book down every time I pick it up because the cases they work on are fascinating. I smile often at the main characters’ witty conversations. The cool part is that more than two people could be accused of the crime. I like that I couldn’t guess who it is. I like the mini cliffhangers. I like Reed Markham and his strong will to stand his ground and not let his boss threaten him with his dream job. I enjoy the detective work and the twists. I like the hint of romance. I highly recommend everyone to read this duology because it’s an addicting read!
Pro: fast paced, page turner, humor, couldn’t put down, adrenaline rush, suspense, mystery,
Con: none
I rate it 5 stars!
***Disclaimer: Many thanks to Minotaur Books for the opportunity to read and review. Please be assured that my opinions are honest.
xoxo,
Jasmine at www.howusefulitis.wordpress.com for more details
This book is told in the third person point of view following Ellery Hathaway as she makes her way to a group meeting for survivors of violent crimes. She can’t continue her job as a police officer until she attend this meeting the court mandated. At the meeting, she meets Wendy, who was raped but the rapist got away. Ellery also meets Myra, who survived a fire from a burning building while the arsonist stand by to watch. Ellery’s secret life in this book is now all over the news and she can sympathize with these two survivors. Wendy is reaching out to Ellery to help her catch her rapist. The second point of view is Agent Reed Markham, FBI Profiler well known for his role in rescuing one victim from a serial killer. As Ellery digs around the arsonist case, she found herself being threatened and her truck is set on fire.
No Mercy is very well written and a fast paced read! I couldn’t put the book down every time I pick it up because the cases they work on are fascinating. I smile often at the main characters’ witty conversations. The cool part is that more than two people could be accused of the crime. I like that I couldn’t guess who it is. I like the mini cliffhangers. I like Reed Markham and his strong will to stand his ground and not let his boss threaten him with his dream job. I enjoy the detective work and the twists. I like the hint of romance. I highly recommend everyone to read this duology because it’s an addicting read!
Pro: fast paced, page turner, humor, couldn’t put down, adrenaline rush, suspense, mystery,
Con: none
I rate it 5 stars!
***Disclaimer: Many thanks to Minotaur Books for the opportunity to read and review. Please be assured that my opinions are honest.
xoxo,
Jasmine at www.howusefulitis.wordpress.com for more details
December 12, 2019
4 stars for an entertaining mystery/thriller. This is book 2 in the series and I have previously read book 1, The Vanishing Season . I enjoyed that one also and decided to continue reading this series. Ellery Hathaway was abducted when she was 14 by a serial rapist/murderer. She was rescued by FBI agent Reed Markham. She is now required to attend group therapy sessions for people who experienced violent crime. The crime in this case happened in book 1, and I cannot explain more without a spoiler for book 1. She befriends Wendy, a victim of a rapist who wants Ellery to help find Wendy's rapist who has never been caught. Ellery is a police officer in fictional Woodbury, Mass., but she is not allowed to perform any duties until she completes mandatory counseling/group therapy.
She calls Reed for help in finding the rapist.
They do find the rapist, but there are several twists and turns in the plot. In addition, there is a developing relationship between Ellery and Reed.
Thanks to Joanna Schaffhausen and St Martin's Press for sending me this eBook through NetGalley.
She calls Reed for help in finding the rapist.
They do find the rapist, but there are several twists and turns in the plot. In addition, there is a developing relationship between Ellery and Reed.
Thanks to Joanna Schaffhausen and St Martin's Press for sending me this eBook through NetGalley.
January 6, 2019
No Mercy by Joanna Schaffhausen is the second book of the thrilling Ellery Hathaway series. This series follows Ellery Hathaway who is now a police officer but Ellery wasn’t her original name, she changed and became the person she is today thanks to once being the victim herself.
Years ago Ellery Hathaway became victim number seventeen of serial killer Francis Michael Coben when she was abducted and held captive. Ellery was lucky enough that FBI Agent Reed Markham saw something other investigators hadn’t and followed clues to Coben’s home where he managed to rescue Ellery and put Coben behind bars making Ellery the one that survived.
However, while on a case in search of another killer Ellery’s worse nightmare came about and she and Reed had to solve both cases. Now after everything that happened Ellery is once again in the spotlight and forced to take a break from her job and enter therapy where Ellery meets another victim. Not being able to pass by helping another victim Ellery again finds herself asking Reed Markham to come help her with a case.
Being the second book of this series I already know what to expect and dare I say I think this one just got a little better than the first leaving me to rate it at 4.5 stars. What you have in this series is a small town vibe with a flawed main character that has taken her tortured past and turned into one heck of a strong female lead. Pair that up with a determined FBI partner that is still very much wanting to rescue and keep her safe and it makes for a great dynamic duo chasing down these killer cases. Definitely a fan and will look forward to more in the series.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
Years ago Ellery Hathaway became victim number seventeen of serial killer Francis Michael Coben when she was abducted and held captive. Ellery was lucky enough that FBI Agent Reed Markham saw something other investigators hadn’t and followed clues to Coben’s home where he managed to rescue Ellery and put Coben behind bars making Ellery the one that survived.
However, while on a case in search of another killer Ellery’s worse nightmare came about and she and Reed had to solve both cases. Now after everything that happened Ellery is once again in the spotlight and forced to take a break from her job and enter therapy where Ellery meets another victim. Not being able to pass by helping another victim Ellery again finds herself asking Reed Markham to come help her with a case.
Being the second book of this series I already know what to expect and dare I say I think this one just got a little better than the first leaving me to rate it at 4.5 stars. What you have in this series is a small town vibe with a flawed main character that has taken her tortured past and turned into one heck of a strong female lead. Pair that up with a determined FBI partner that is still very much wanting to rescue and keep her safe and it makes for a great dynamic duo chasing down these killer cases. Definitely a fan and will look forward to more in the series.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
January 6, 2019
No Mercy is the type of book I try not to read anymore; a crazed killer, a damaged heroine, and a slight will they/ won’t they subplot. Except when the book is written by Joanna Schaffhausen. Then I am on the hunt for the book.
Evidently you can’t shoot a crazed killer in cold blood. Especially you can’t pull that trigger if you are a cop. Even if you are Ellery Hathaway, the only survivor of the serial killer that the most recent dead serial killer is emulating. Confused? Then read The Vanishing Season. Not because it is necessary to understand No Mercy but just for the sheer pleasure. Read it and weep.
Anywhohows, as my ol’ daddy would say, Ellery is on suspension and is in forced therapy. Ellie doesn’t think she needs individual therapy much less group therapy for crime victims. She won’t apologize for shooting the psychopath and she already knows she is damaged w-a-a-a-a-a y beyond healing.
Some of these members have been in this group for a good many years, which is a pretty damn depressing realization on its own merit. In order to get through group therapy hell, Ellie decides to help out a few of the other members of her therapy group.
Ellery realizes early on that she can’t help these people alone and that she needs the help of the FBI agent, Reed Markham, who saved her once. He was drawn to help the young police officer once again in The Vanishing Season. For some odd reason Reed is told that he will pay a tough professional price if he aids Ellie again. Serial killers, the gift that just keeps on giving.
Schaffhausen has written such wonderfully damaged characters with Ellery and Reed. Ellery is haunted by why she survived when no other victims did. Reed is haunted by the “if only” thoughts of why he couldn’t have been faster, smarter and saved more victims. Ellery is his victory, and maybe now his downfall. Again.
Schaffhausen certainly kept me guessing. The crimes Ellery are asked to look into aren’t unusual but they are vicious and the victims are still hoping for some kind of peace and closure. Ellery, however, knows there is no such thing. With one villain, the leads were there, with the other storyline being a true whodunit. Ellie is also reminded of the law of unintended consequences.
Reed utilizes his analytic profiling skills to help Ellie despite the professional price he might pay, which sucks as he is finally coming to accept the personal price he has paid to be an agent.
Schaffhausen’s secondary characters were intriguing and spent no time in the “flat character green room” waiting to be brought on-page. When the other characters appear, they can be mesmerizing.
There are secondary plots with surprising family issues that are just as compelling and will have you eagerly looking for the third book.
There is a hint of romance between Ellie and Reed, but it never goes anywhere because the two numbskulls don’t seem to realize there are lots of airplanes, trains and buses that travel between Virginia and Boston. Which makes me crazy.
The pace is perfect; the dialogue is smooth until it explodes in unexpected directions. This nascent series is one of the best I’ve read in recent years.
My thanks to NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Evidently you can’t shoot a crazed killer in cold blood. Especially you can’t pull that trigger if you are a cop. Even if you are Ellery Hathaway, the only survivor of the serial killer that the most recent dead serial killer is emulating. Confused? Then read The Vanishing Season. Not because it is necessary to understand No Mercy but just for the sheer pleasure. Read it and weep.
Anywhohows, as my ol’ daddy would say, Ellery is on suspension and is in forced therapy. Ellie doesn’t think she needs individual therapy much less group therapy for crime victims. She won’t apologize for shooting the psychopath and she already knows she is damaged w-a-a-a-a-a y beyond healing.
Some of these members have been in this group for a good many years, which is a pretty damn depressing realization on its own merit. In order to get through group therapy hell, Ellie decides to help out a few of the other members of her therapy group.
Ellery realizes early on that she can’t help these people alone and that she needs the help of the FBI agent, Reed Markham, who saved her once. He was drawn to help the young police officer once again in The Vanishing Season. For some odd reason Reed is told that he will pay a tough professional price if he aids Ellie again. Serial killers, the gift that just keeps on giving.
Schaffhausen has written such wonderfully damaged characters with Ellery and Reed. Ellery is haunted by why she survived when no other victims did. Reed is haunted by the “if only” thoughts of why he couldn’t have been faster, smarter and saved more victims. Ellery is his victory, and maybe now his downfall. Again.
Schaffhausen certainly kept me guessing. The crimes Ellery are asked to look into aren’t unusual but they are vicious and the victims are still hoping for some kind of peace and closure. Ellery, however, knows there is no such thing. With one villain, the leads were there, with the other storyline being a true whodunit. Ellie is also reminded of the law of unintended consequences.
Reed utilizes his analytic profiling skills to help Ellie despite the professional price he might pay, which sucks as he is finally coming to accept the personal price he has paid to be an agent.
Schaffhausen’s secondary characters were intriguing and spent no time in the “flat character green room” waiting to be brought on-page. When the other characters appear, they can be mesmerizing.
There are secondary plots with surprising family issues that are just as compelling and will have you eagerly looking for the third book.
There is a hint of romance between Ellie and Reed, but it never goes anywhere because the two numbskulls don’t seem to realize there are lots of airplanes, trains and buses that travel between Virginia and Boston. Which makes me crazy.
The pace is perfect; the dialogue is smooth until it explodes in unexpected directions. This nascent series is one of the best I’ve read in recent years.
My thanks to NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
December 2, 2021
What you did.....but did you do what you did?
Joanna Schaffhausen has a winner, once again, in her second edition in the Ellery Hathaway Series. We meet up with Police Officer Ellery Hathaway who has been placed on involuntary leave while she's being investigated for outright shooting a cold-blooded murderer. Since when are apologies necessary? And to add insult to injury, Ellery must attend group counseling now.
It's here during one of the group sessions that Ellery meets a young woman who was brutally raped. The police no longer even consider it an active case since there was no DNA or other evidence left behind.....only the words of the victim. Ironically, the victim lives on the second floor of her apartment building with no fire escape or access to her window where he gained entrance. Unless he's Velcro Man, it seems impossible.
Ellery agrees to look into the case out of sympathy for the victim, but she's coming up with dead ends as well. She contacts FBI Profiler Reed Markham who saved her life when she was abducted herself and nearly died at the scene. Reed knows exactly which switches to flick and what doors to open. But Reed is in a tight spot as he was told by his own boss to stay away from Ellery or jeopardize his upcoming promotion. Ellery doesn't back away from a challenge herself. But this time, what she bloodhounds toward, may sink its teeth into her.
I'm enjoying this series by the talented Joanna Schaffhausen. You may want to start with the first book, The Vanishing Season. Well written, creative, sharply honed, and characters out of the ordinary, No Mercy is one to check out. Highly recommend.
Joanna Schaffhausen has a winner, once again, in her second edition in the Ellery Hathaway Series. We meet up with Police Officer Ellery Hathaway who has been placed on involuntary leave while she's being investigated for outright shooting a cold-blooded murderer. Since when are apologies necessary? And to add insult to injury, Ellery must attend group counseling now.
It's here during one of the group sessions that Ellery meets a young woman who was brutally raped. The police no longer even consider it an active case since there was no DNA or other evidence left behind.....only the words of the victim. Ironically, the victim lives on the second floor of her apartment building with no fire escape or access to her window where he gained entrance. Unless he's Velcro Man, it seems impossible.
Ellery agrees to look into the case out of sympathy for the victim, but she's coming up with dead ends as well. She contacts FBI Profiler Reed Markham who saved her life when she was abducted herself and nearly died at the scene. Reed knows exactly which switches to flick and what doors to open. But Reed is in a tight spot as he was told by his own boss to stay away from Ellery or jeopardize his upcoming promotion. Ellery doesn't back away from a challenge herself. But this time, what she bloodhounds toward, may sink its teeth into her.
I'm enjoying this series by the talented Joanna Schaffhausen. You may want to start with the first book, The Vanishing Season. Well written, creative, sharply honed, and characters out of the ordinary, No Mercy is one to check out. Highly recommend.
October 25, 2019
I really enjoyed The Vanishing Season and loved Ellery and I enjoyed No Mercy but it wasn't as creepy or as suspenseful for me but the tension in the story had me at the edge of my seat.
Joanna Schaffhausen does a good job developing our strong and interesting yet flawed character here with Ellery. I loved the dynamics even more here between Ellery and Reed. I can't believe I am going to say this but the romantic tension between them had me turning those pages as fast as I could to see more of that dynamics. They grow closer here in this one and become a little reckless in their own investigation that created even more tension and I couldn't help but cheer them on.
That ending has me wanting more and I am looking forward to reading All The Best Lies
I received a copy from the publisher on NetGalley.
Joanna Schaffhausen does a good job developing our strong and interesting yet flawed character here with Ellery. I loved the dynamics even more here between Ellery and Reed. I can't believe I am going to say this but the romantic tension between them had me turning those pages as fast as I could to see more of that dynamics. They grow closer here in this one and become a little reckless in their own investigation that created even more tension and I couldn't help but cheer them on.
That ending has me wanting more and I am looking forward to reading All The Best Lies
I received a copy from the publisher on NetGalley.
September 19, 2018
So she killed a guy. Hellooo..…he was a vile, psychopathic murdering dirtbag. Why all the fuss? Well, it might be due to the fact she’s a cop. But it’s probably because she’s Ellery Hathaway.
At least that’s what she calls herself now. She had a different name as a young teen. That’s when she was abducted & kept in a closet by a man who now sits on death row. Of all the girls he snatched she was the only one rescued & the media attention was endless. In time the damaged girl grew up, changed her name & became a cop in a small town where no one knew her face. But that all changed after her identity was revealed during her last case when she killed a killer. And the media rejoiced.
Which led to her current situation…. a forced “time out” from the job & mandatory group therapy. Ellery decides she might have to attend the sessions but that doesn’t mean she has to speak. So she listens. To Wendy, a woman who was raped & is still waiting for justice. And to Myra, an older lady still grieving for the baby son she lost decades ago in a fire. Hmmm…
Ellery has always led a solitary life. Her beloved hound Speed Bump & the job were enough. But now her days are empty & with too much time on her hands, she begins to dig into the investigations surrounding Wendy & Myra’s tragic events. All she needs is the help of one person. Enter Reed Markham, the FBI agent who pulled her from the closet all those years ago.
Buckle up, peeps. It’s about to get bumpy. I won’t get into the investigative plot lines. Suffice to say Ellery & Reed make a good team as he puts his profiling skills to use & she does the footwork. But this is also the story of their unique relationship. Ellery is a damaged soul, a woman who can’t stand to be touched & keeps her closet doors nailed shut. The only person she tolerates (besides “Bump”) is Reed. He knows her history & what she endured unlike all the others who stare or pry for sensational details. He also provides a levelling influence.
As Ellery’s investigations become increasingly dangerous, there were times I wanted to sit her down & ask her just what the hell she was thinking (thankfully, Reed does that for me). She seems to have no sense of self preservation. And then I realized she didn’t care if she died because living with all her fears & personal tics was just so hard. She believes (wishes?) she should have died in that closet & it’s left her with a fatalistic feeling that she’s walking around on borrowed time.
By the end, cases are solved & old secrets unearthed. But the final pages put the focus squarely on Reed as he discovers he might have his own closet full of ghosts to deal with. It’s a tense & exciting read that stands well on it’s own but I recommend The Vanishing Season to get the full background on these characters.
At least that’s what she calls herself now. She had a different name as a young teen. That’s when she was abducted & kept in a closet by a man who now sits on death row. Of all the girls he snatched she was the only one rescued & the media attention was endless. In time the damaged girl grew up, changed her name & became a cop in a small town where no one knew her face. But that all changed after her identity was revealed during her last case when she killed a killer. And the media rejoiced.
Which led to her current situation…. a forced “time out” from the job & mandatory group therapy. Ellery decides she might have to attend the sessions but that doesn’t mean she has to speak. So she listens. To Wendy, a woman who was raped & is still waiting for justice. And to Myra, an older lady still grieving for the baby son she lost decades ago in a fire. Hmmm…
Ellery has always led a solitary life. Her beloved hound Speed Bump & the job were enough. But now her days are empty & with too much time on her hands, she begins to dig into the investigations surrounding Wendy & Myra’s tragic events. All she needs is the help of one person. Enter Reed Markham, the FBI agent who pulled her from the closet all those years ago.
Buckle up, peeps. It’s about to get bumpy. I won’t get into the investigative plot lines. Suffice to say Ellery & Reed make a good team as he puts his profiling skills to use & she does the footwork. But this is also the story of their unique relationship. Ellery is a damaged soul, a woman who can’t stand to be touched & keeps her closet doors nailed shut. The only person she tolerates (besides “Bump”) is Reed. He knows her history & what she endured unlike all the others who stare or pry for sensational details. He also provides a levelling influence.
As Ellery’s investigations become increasingly dangerous, there were times I wanted to sit her down & ask her just what the hell she was thinking (thankfully, Reed does that for me). She seems to have no sense of self preservation. And then I realized she didn’t care if she died because living with all her fears & personal tics was just so hard. She believes (wishes?) she should have died in that closet & it’s left her with a fatalistic feeling that she’s walking around on borrowed time.
By the end, cases are solved & old secrets unearthed. But the final pages put the focus squarely on Reed as he discovers he might have his own closet full of ghosts to deal with. It’s a tense & exciting read that stands well on it’s own but I recommend The Vanishing Season to get the full background on these characters.
December 13, 2018
3.85 Stars.
Ellery Hathaway has a tendency to run towards trouble instead of running from it. When she was young, she was the 17th victim of Serial Killer Francis Coben. She was the only survivor, thanks to FBI Agent Reed Markham. After that, she became a Cop - though she is currently on suspension - due to killing a serial killer (sounds crazy right?). Now she’s in mandated therapy hoping to get her job back. In group, she meets likeminded people who’ve also survived violent crimes. Hearing their stories she’s sure can assist some of them in finding justice, if only she can convince Reed Markham to help.
“No Mercy” is an interesting, fast-paced, suspenseful read. The characters of Ellery and Reed are tormented in their own ways. Both however are extremely likable and immediately draw you in. This is book two in the Ellery Hathaway series - though it was my first foray into her story. While some of the backstory was explained, some was not. Luckily for me, I read this with my trusted book buddy Kaceey who thankfully explained everything I needed to know. We both thoroughly enjoyed this and at one point, both of our eyes just about popped! Based on that alone, we will definitely be tuning in for the next installment!
This was another fabulous buddy read with Kaceey!
Thank you to NetGalley, St. Martin’s Press and Joanna Schaffhausen for an arc of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Published on Goodreads and NetGalley on 12.13.18.
Ellery Hathaway has a tendency to run towards trouble instead of running from it. When she was young, she was the 17th victim of Serial Killer Francis Coben. She was the only survivor, thanks to FBI Agent Reed Markham. After that, she became a Cop - though she is currently on suspension - due to killing a serial killer (sounds crazy right?). Now she’s in mandated therapy hoping to get her job back. In group, she meets likeminded people who’ve also survived violent crimes. Hearing their stories she’s sure can assist some of them in finding justice, if only she can convince Reed Markham to help.
“No Mercy” is an interesting, fast-paced, suspenseful read. The characters of Ellery and Reed are tormented in their own ways. Both however are extremely likable and immediately draw you in. This is book two in the Ellery Hathaway series - though it was my first foray into her story. While some of the backstory was explained, some was not. Luckily for me, I read this with my trusted book buddy Kaceey who thankfully explained everything I needed to know. We both thoroughly enjoyed this and at one point, both of our eyes just about popped! Based on that alone, we will definitely be tuning in for the next installment!
This was another fabulous buddy read with Kaceey!
Thank you to NetGalley, St. Martin’s Press and Joanna Schaffhausen for an arc of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Published on Goodreads and NetGalley on 12.13.18.
November 6, 2018
Bring on book #3!
Second in her mystery-crime series, NO MERCY, Joanna Schaffhausen brings back the tough-skinned Officer Ellery Hathaway and FBI profiler Reed Markham....as well as Speed Bump the dog.
Everyone knows Ellery....or at least the story of her well publicized and disturbing past, but for now she is supposedly off the streets, suspended for shooting a murderer and being "shrinked up" along with a group of others who have experienced violent crime.
But Ellie's quick-witted investigative mind is always set on overdrive so as she judiciously meets her new groupies, she ends up deeply involved in two old cases that require the help of an old friend....an FBI agent friend with a mysterious and complicated past of his own....a friend she must tread cautiously around....a friend who knows the horrors of her past and just may win her heart....or not.
A complex plot makes for an intriguing storyline here, but highly recommend reading THE VANISHING SEASON first to enhance your reading experience.
Many thanks to Minotaur Books/St. Martin's Press via NetGalley for the arc in exchange for an unbiased review.
September 23, 2018
Occasionally a book is so well written that anything they write will hit your TO READ SHELF. Joanna Schaffhausen's Ellery Hathaway series wins on all fronts. Love Ellery and Reed and the romantic tension that has been going on. (Hope that blooms so relief is felt by all) Ellery's childhood still holds terror for her but her hero and now friend Reed seems to sooth her. A Couple unsolved crimes come to the attention of Ellery while in a group therapy session. Challenges to unravel these are due to the fact that Ellery has been suspended from the police force. Enjoyed this mostly because of the in depth characters. Suggest ready "Vanishing Season #1 to understand fully what Ellery and Read have been through together. CAN'T WAIT for #3!! A copy of this book was provided by St. Martin's Press via Netgalley with no requirements for a review. Comments here are my honest opinion."
September 2, 2019
No Mercy by Joanna Schaffhausen is th follow up to the fantastic Vanishing Season featuring police officer Ellery Hathaway. I read the first book earlier this year and I am a bit behind in my review for this one. Once I picked this up I couldn't put it down, reading it quite quickly. The story is fast paced and full of action, keeping my interest all the way.
After the explosive events of The Vanishing Season Ellery is on forced leave to recover, both physically and mentally. If she has any chance of getting her job back with the force she has to behave herself and do as she is told. She begrudgingly starts to attend group therapy with other victims of crime. It is here that she meets the victim of a brutal rape, whoever attcker is still out there. She also meets a woman who lost her son in a fire, but was the right man convicted. She manages to get Reed Markham from the FBI back to town. Help her investigate these 2 cases, outing herself in danger once again. Will she be able to help these women and stay alive?
Thanks to St Martins Press and NetGalley for my advanced copy of this book to read. All opinions are my own and are in no way biased
After the explosive events of The Vanishing Season Ellery is on forced leave to recover, both physically and mentally. If she has any chance of getting her job back with the force she has to behave herself and do as she is told. She begrudgingly starts to attend group therapy with other victims of crime. It is here that she meets the victim of a brutal rape, whoever attcker is still out there. She also meets a woman who lost her son in a fire, but was the right man convicted. She manages to get Reed Markham from the FBI back to town. Help her investigate these 2 cases, outing herself in danger once again. Will she be able to help these women and stay alive?
Thanks to St Martins Press and NetGalley for my advanced copy of this book to read. All opinions are my own and are in no way biased
January 11, 2019
After reading the fantastic THE VANISHING SEASON, I was eager to get my hands on the sequel, NO MERCY. I was not disappointed!
Police officer Ellery Hathaway is now on involuntary leave because she shot a murderer at the end of the last book. The public also knows that she once was the single living survivor of a serial killer, which makes her something of a curiosity. Ellery hates this unwanted attention, as well as being required to attend group therapy for victims of violent crimes. All of this leads to her starting to investigate both an arsonist and a serial rapist. So she turned to her friend, FBI profiler Reed Markham for help, the man who saved her all of those years ago
READ THE REST OF THE REVIEW OVER AT FRESH FICTION!
Police officer Ellery Hathaway is now on involuntary leave because she shot a murderer at the end of the last book. The public also knows that she once was the single living survivor of a serial killer, which makes her something of a curiosity. Ellery hates this unwanted attention, as well as being required to attend group therapy for victims of violent crimes. All of this leads to her starting to investigate both an arsonist and a serial rapist. So she turned to her friend, FBI profiler Reed Markham for help, the man who saved her all of those years ago
READ THE REST OF THE REVIEW OVER AT FRESH FICTION!
January 30, 2019
Thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for an e-Arc in exchange for an honest review.
3.5 stars
Here I go again.....adding another series to the bulging bookshelf and I am not even sorry. Although this was book 2, the author sheds enough light on Ellery and Reed's backstories that it makes a good stand alone. Both characters are pretty damaged and yet together they make a fantastic team as they try to look into an arson case and a rape case. Neither of these cases were connected except that two of the victims are in Ellery's support group. But even before that I was hooked from the lead sentence You kill one guy one time , and suddenly everyone thinks you need therapy.
Now I might not describe this story as fast paced, but it was still highly engaging and makes me think that I might want to continue exploring this author in the future.
3.5 stars
Here I go again.....adding another series to the bulging bookshelf and I am not even sorry. Although this was book 2, the author sheds enough light on Ellery and Reed's backstories that it makes a good stand alone. Both characters are pretty damaged and yet together they make a fantastic team as they try to look into an arson case and a rape case. Neither of these cases were connected except that two of the victims are in Ellery's support group. But even before that I was hooked from the lead sentence You kill one guy one time , and suddenly everyone thinks you need therapy.
Now I might not describe this story as fast paced, but it was still highly engaging and makes me think that I might want to continue exploring this author in the future.
January 19, 2020
Picking up after the harrowing events of book one, NO MERCY finds Officer Ellery Hathaway on leave. She's going to mandated therapy, attending a group for victims of violent crime. This isn't exactly Ellery's "cup of tea," as she's not one for sharing her feelings. In group, she meets Myra, a victim of a deadly fire years ago that killed her young son. Ellery quickly gets caught up in Myra's case and becomes convinced that the wrong man--who is up for parole--was convicted of the crime. Another group member, Wendy, was brutally raped, and she asks Ellery for help finding her rapist, who is still on the loose, leaving Wendy a shadow of her once vibrant self. Ellery turns to her friend, FBI agent Reed Markham, the man who rescued her so many years ago. Reed comes, of course; he can never say no to Ellery. But Reed is also in line for a big promotion, and his boss doesn't want him near Ellery. As the two start digging, they uncover secrets: lots of them.
"You kill one guy, one time, and suddenly everyone thinks you need therapy..."
I picked up this book immediately after reading book one, because I was so captivated by Reed and Ellery. They are an amazing duo, with wonderful chemistry, both for solving crimes and in the "will they, won't they" department. Schaffhausen writes in this steady, easy-to-read way that effortlessly brings her characters to life and makes it so easy to flip the pages. Just like the first book, I tore through this one in less than 24 hours.
There are plenty of twists and turns and lots of drama. But there's also a personal and touching element to these books. Ellery and Reed have such a connection. He supposedly rescued her all those years ago, pulling near-dead Ellery from the clutches of a serial killer. But, of course, that experience has formed and hardened her in so many ways. She's a tough cookie. And it's truly just Reed who can see past her outer shell. Ellery will only allow Reed to see little glimpses of her actual self.
The mystery in this book is exemplary. We go back in time to a series of fires in Boston. Even better, it has some ties to Reed's boss, McGreevy, who worked the Boston beat back in the day (see, everything is personal). The more present-day case, Wendy's rapist, fuels Ellery, who feels as if perhaps she is worthless, unable to affect change as a police officer. It's also personal, on a whole different level. Both are compelling. Each kept me guessing and while I had some inkling about the fires, nothing would stop me from frantically turning the pages!
In the end, this was an excellent book. I love the relationship between Ellery and Reed and how it's developing. Both cases were intriguing and kept me hooked from the beginning. I immediately turned to book three, and I'm so sad it's the last one (hopefully just for now)! 4 stars.
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"You kill one guy, one time, and suddenly everyone thinks you need therapy..."
I picked up this book immediately after reading book one, because I was so captivated by Reed and Ellery. They are an amazing duo, with wonderful chemistry, both for solving crimes and in the "will they, won't they" department. Schaffhausen writes in this steady, easy-to-read way that effortlessly brings her characters to life and makes it so easy to flip the pages. Just like the first book, I tore through this one in less than 24 hours.
There are plenty of twists and turns and lots of drama. But there's also a personal and touching element to these books. Ellery and Reed have such a connection. He supposedly rescued her all those years ago, pulling near-dead Ellery from the clutches of a serial killer. But, of course, that experience has formed and hardened her in so many ways. She's a tough cookie. And it's truly just Reed who can see past her outer shell. Ellery will only allow Reed to see little glimpses of her actual self.
The mystery in this book is exemplary. We go back in time to a series of fires in Boston. Even better, it has some ties to Reed's boss, McGreevy, who worked the Boston beat back in the day (see, everything is personal). The more present-day case, Wendy's rapist, fuels Ellery, who feels as if perhaps she is worthless, unable to affect change as a police officer. It's also personal, on a whole different level. Both are compelling. Each kept me guessing and while I had some inkling about the fires, nothing would stop me from frantically turning the pages!
In the end, this was an excellent book. I love the relationship between Ellery and Reed and how it's developing. Both cases were intriguing and kept me hooked from the beginning. I immediately turned to book three, and I'm so sad it's the last one (hopefully just for now)! 4 stars.
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January 18, 2019
No Mercy is the second novel in the Ellery Hathaway series featuring the feisty policewoman alongside FBI profiler Reed Markham and for all intents and purposes it's a fantastic follow-up to The Vanishing Season. The writing pulls you in very early on and the action moved at a speedy pace making it difficult to put the book down. The plot is well crafted with many surprising twists and turns which helped me to race through it. It's important to mention that this novel doesn't stand well on its own as you don't get to see the dynamic and ever-evolving relationship between Ellery and Reed and you're not privy to information about Ellery's background which goes some way to explaining.her impulsive nature.
Many thanks to Minotaur Books for an ARC.
Many thanks to Minotaur Books for an ARC.
July 7, 2020
4.5
Take down the monster when you have a clean shot because you might not get a second one.
No Mercy is the second in the Ellery Hathaway series and is as well-written, fast paced and engaging as the first book.
Police officer Ellery Hathaway is on involuntary leave and has to attend a survivors’ group meeting. Little does she know she is going to be helping two other victims in the group find closure by solving the crimes committed against them.
Wendy is a young woman who cannot rest until her rapist is behind bars.
Myra who has survived a fire which has claimed her 2 year old son’s life 26 years ago. The perpetrator is behind bars but is up for parole. He claims he is innocent. Did he set the fire or did the police arrest the wrong person?
Take down the monster when you have a clean shot because you might not get a second one.
No Mercy is the second in the Ellery Hathaway series and is as well-written, fast paced and engaging as the first book.
Police officer Ellery Hathaway is on involuntary leave and has to attend a survivors’ group meeting. Little does she know she is going to be helping two other victims in the group find closure by solving the crimes committed against them.
Wendy is a young woman who cannot rest until her rapist is behind bars.
Myra who has survived a fire which has claimed her 2 year old son’s life 26 years ago. The perpetrator is behind bars but is up for parole. He claims he is innocent. Did he set the fire or did the police arrest the wrong person?
January 22, 2019
Thanks to St. Martin’s Press for granting my wish to read an electronic review copy of this recently published book and introducing me to author Joanne Schaffhausen. This was a quick dark read with several interesting subplots surrounding law enforcement officer Ellery Hathaway while she is attending a required group for victims of violent crime. My only regret is that I didn’t read the first book in the series, Vanishing Season, first before reading this one. I am now very invested in the characters and am looking forward to seeing what happens next. However, reading the second one first gave a little spoilers and left me racing to catch up with the characters. The events in the book were true to the characters and showed their struggles. I recommend this series.
December 28, 2020
This series is really growing on me - though it might seem they're a fairly standard version of the investigative thriller genre, beneath the surface there's more than initially meets the eye.
Ellery Hathaway is still dealing with the fallout of the last book, and while attending mandatory group therapy, meets a fellow survivor who provides the first thread of the central mystery. When she asks Reed for help to get her foot in the door with the case, the gang's all back together and it all begins to unfold - while at the same time a historical case begins to show signs that it may not be just history for long.
So there are definitely aspects of this series that adhere to the tropes - man and woman investigating crimes, one a survivor of a similar crime, the other with a broken home life because they just can't stop giving their all to the job, the both of them with fantastic chemistry and enough baggage to keep it on a low burn for at least a few books. But though these have both been on the shorter side, there's more going on that makes me want to see where Joanna Schaffhausen is going with this. For a start, though there's the option to see some of the perpetrators as the smart, organised, and diabolical puppet-masters this genre loves so much, they're not actually written that way. Scheming, sure, but there's no sense of any great intelligence behind it - just good luck, and a lack of links to their victims. It's not entirely out of the ballpark, but far enough that it hits the sweet spot for this kind of book without making me roll my eyes.
The continuity with the last book is handled well, too - they both could be read on their own, there's a nice amount of development, but things move at a believable pace, and follow realistic paths; consequences happen, but don't snarl up the storyline.
All in all, a good followup to the last book, still an entertaining quick read, and has built on the good points of the series so far. Looking forward to continuing!
Ellery Hathaway is still dealing with the fallout of the last book, and while attending mandatory group therapy, meets a fellow survivor who provides the first thread of the central mystery. When she asks Reed for help to get her foot in the door with the case, the gang's all back together and it all begins to unfold - while at the same time a historical case begins to show signs that it may not be just history for long.
So there are definitely aspects of this series that adhere to the tropes - man and woman investigating crimes, one a survivor of a similar crime, the other with a broken home life because they just can't stop giving their all to the job, the both of them with fantastic chemistry and enough baggage to keep it on a low burn for at least a few books. But though these have both been on the shorter side, there's more going on that makes me want to see where Joanna Schaffhausen is going with this. For a start, though there's the option to see some of the perpetrators as the smart, organised, and diabolical puppet-masters this genre loves so much, they're not actually written that way. Scheming, sure, but there's no sense of any great intelligence behind it - just good luck, and a lack of links to their victims. It's not entirely out of the ballpark, but far enough that it hits the sweet spot for this kind of book without making me roll my eyes.
The continuity with the last book is handled well, too - they both could be read on their own, there's a nice amount of development, but things move at a believable pace, and follow realistic paths; consequences happen, but don't snarl up the storyline.
All in all, a good followup to the last book, still an entertaining quick read, and has built on the good points of the series so far. Looking forward to continuing!
February 21, 2020
This was a great follow-up to The Vanishing Season by promising new author Joanna Schaffenhausen. It starts shortly after the ending of the previous book. Ellery Hathaway is on enforced leave following the shooting where she killed the man terrorising her and in so doing also saved Reed’s life. She moves back to Boston and must attend counselling, including group therapy for victims, as part of the conditions to be considered fit for duty as a police officer.
Ellery hates being seen as a victim and finds herself deeply affected by the stories of two of the other attendees. Myra, who was burnt in a furniture shop fire 25 years ago in which her two year old son died, is now in a wheelchair from her injuries and still feels her son’s loss deeply. However the man convicted of this crime is due to be considered for parole and his lawyer claims he was wrongly convicted. Ellery thinks it is worth double checking the facts of this case. Also, a young woman who was brutally raped some months ago pleads for Ellery’s help in finding her attacker, who is still at large, as she is severely traumatised by the rape.
No longer having the resources of a police department at her disposal, Ellery asks Reed Markham, the FBI profiler who rescued her from a serial killer 14 years ago, for help again. Reed comes straight away, he is drawn to Ellery and cannot countenance her being possibly in danger if she goes off half cocked again.
What follows is an action packed, suspense filled search for the truth which sends the two protagonists into more danger than they could have dreamed of. The truth is a bitter pill to swallow in this one as the layers of deceit and lies are slowly unpeeled with heartbreaking results. It ends in a cliffhanger as Reed gets an unexpected result from a DNA test.
Ellery hates being seen as a victim and finds herself deeply affected by the stories of two of the other attendees. Myra, who was burnt in a furniture shop fire 25 years ago in which her two year old son died, is now in a wheelchair from her injuries and still feels her son’s loss deeply. However the man convicted of this crime is due to be considered for parole and his lawyer claims he was wrongly convicted. Ellery thinks it is worth double checking the facts of this case. Also, a young woman who was brutally raped some months ago pleads for Ellery’s help in finding her attacker, who is still at large, as she is severely traumatised by the rape.
No longer having the resources of a police department at her disposal, Ellery asks Reed Markham, the FBI profiler who rescued her from a serial killer 14 years ago, for help again. Reed comes straight away, he is drawn to Ellery and cannot countenance her being possibly in danger if she goes off half cocked again.
What follows is an action packed, suspense filled search for the truth which sends the two protagonists into more danger than they could have dreamed of. The truth is a bitter pill to swallow in this one as the layers of deceit and lies are slowly unpeeled with heartbreaking results. It ends in a cliffhanger as Reed gets an unexpected result from a DNA test.
February 17, 2019
Years ago Ellery Hathaway was the seventeenth victim of serial killer Francis Michael Coben . FBI Agent Reed Markham managed to rescue Ellery and years later helped her solve another case. As a result of the case she is currently on leave from the police department while she completes her department-mandated therapy where she meets Wendy who was brutally raped and Myra who is confined to a wheelchair, covered in severe burns. Can Ellery help find Wendy’s rapist and find enough reasons to keep Myra’s arsonist behind bars?
No Mercy by Joanna Schaffhausen is the second book in Ellery Hathaway series. This is another action packed thriller with lots of twists & turns that will keep you hooked and to top that has an explosive ending. I cannot wait for the next book in the series !
I would like to thank St. Martin’s Press & NetGalley for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest and fair review.
This and more reviews at https://chloesbooksblog.wordpress.com/
No Mercy by Joanna Schaffhausen is the second book in Ellery Hathaway series. This is another action packed thriller with lots of twists & turns that will keep you hooked and to top that has an explosive ending. I cannot wait for the next book in the series !
I would like to thank St. Martin’s Press & NetGalley for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest and fair review.
This and more reviews at https://chloesbooksblog.wordpress.com/
January 14, 2019
Content warnings include sexual assault and family violence.
I fell in love with Bump immediately in The Vanishing Season and now he’s back, shedding fur throughout the pages of No Mercy. Ellery and Reed are back, too. After the events of the first book (you could read this book as a standalone but I’d highly recommend reading them in order) Ellery has been suspended from her job and forced into group therapy with other survivors of violent crimes.
Because this is Ellery she’s not so interested in looking inward because, ugh, feelings! Rather, this is the perfect opportunity to get herself personally involved in the crimes affecting some of the other group members. Ellery starts investigating an unsolved sexual assault, whose perpetrator may be responsible for a number of other assaults. She also manages to get entangled in a historic arson case despite the convicted arsonist having already spent decades in prison.
Naturally Ellery, who is strong, determined and at times petulant, jumps in head first and pretty soon Reed, FBI profiler and the man who rescued her from Francis Coben’s closet many years ago, has joined her in Boston. Even though Ellery basically has Reed wrapped around her little finger I still really like him, or maybe I just want him to cook for me. No matter how much I like Reed he’s a runner up to his adorable daughter, Tula, who’s my favourite human character of this book. Sorry, but no human could ever own a piece of my heart like Bump does!
I loved that there was more of a focus on Ellery and Reed’s relationship in this book. Their initial interactions in the first book were understandably awkward because of their shared history up to that point. While they’re still finding their way they’re more comfortable in each other’s presence and they’re building a more equal relationship, although Reed still feels the need to protect Ellery and Ellery still understandably chafes at physical and emotional closeness with any man, even Reed.
Cover Rant: When I reviewed The Vanishing Season I’d only seen the American cover and thought it was nice enough, if a bit tame as a representation of Ellery’s personality and story. Then I saw the UK version which, pardon the pun, nailed it! The American cover for No Mercy again falls short for me while the UK version shines. The American cover for this book doesn’t give the reader any sense of who Ellery is or what this story is about. I think Ellery would be disappointed that there isn’t anything gritty or honest about this cover. Sure, looking outside the window you can tell that the story has moved to the city, but the matches on the UK cover? They grab my attention and make me want to know more!
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Minotaur Books, an imprint of St. Martin’s Press, for the opportunity to read this book. Please publish the third book soon! I’m hanging off a cliff here waiting to find out what’s next for Reed!!!
I fell in love with Bump immediately in The Vanishing Season and now he’s back, shedding fur throughout the pages of No Mercy. Ellery and Reed are back, too. After the events of the first book (you could read this book as a standalone but I’d highly recommend reading them in order) Ellery has been suspended from her job and forced into group therapy with other survivors of violent crimes.
Because this is Ellery she’s not so interested in looking inward because, ugh, feelings! Rather, this is the perfect opportunity to get herself personally involved in the crimes affecting some of the other group members. Ellery starts investigating an unsolved sexual assault, whose perpetrator may be responsible for a number of other assaults. She also manages to get entangled in a historic arson case despite the convicted arsonist having already spent decades in prison.
Naturally Ellery, who is strong, determined and at times petulant, jumps in head first and pretty soon Reed, FBI profiler and the man who rescued her from Francis Coben’s closet many years ago, has joined her in Boston. Even though Ellery basically has Reed wrapped around her little finger I still really like him, or maybe I just want him to cook for me. No matter how much I like Reed he’s a runner up to his adorable daughter, Tula, who’s my favourite human character of this book. Sorry, but no human could ever own a piece of my heart like Bump does!
I loved that there was more of a focus on Ellery and Reed’s relationship in this book. Their initial interactions in the first book were understandably awkward because of their shared history up to that point. While they’re still finding their way they’re more comfortable in each other’s presence and they’re building a more equal relationship, although Reed still feels the need to protect Ellery and Ellery still understandably chafes at physical and emotional closeness with any man, even Reed.
Cover Rant: When I reviewed The Vanishing Season I’d only seen the American cover and thought it was nice enough, if a bit tame as a representation of Ellery’s personality and story. Then I saw the UK version which, pardon the pun, nailed it! The American cover for No Mercy again falls short for me while the UK version shines. The American cover for this book doesn’t give the reader any sense of who Ellery is or what this story is about. I think Ellery would be disappointed that there isn’t anything gritty or honest about this cover. Sure, looking outside the window you can tell that the story has moved to the city, but the matches on the UK cover? They grab my attention and make me want to know more!
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Minotaur Books, an imprint of St. Martin’s Press, for the opportunity to read this book. Please publish the third book soon! I’m hanging off a cliff here waiting to find out what’s next for Reed!!!
February 6, 2020
4.5 stars
No Mercy is the second book in Ellery Hathaway series and is best enjoyed after reading the first book, The Vanishing Season. In No Mercy, Ellery is on involuntary leave and is forced to attend group therapy sessions in order to keep her police job. At the group therapy she meets other victims of violent crimes. With the help of an FBI agent and her only friend, Reed Markham, she starts to investigate two different crimes, an unsolved brutal rape of a young woman and 26 years-old deadly arson for which possibly a wrong man was convicted.
I enjoyed the first book immensely and No Mercy was just as good as the fist book. I liked both mysteries in this book, but for me the best part of the series is Ellery and Reed's relationship. It’s so dynamic and complex and at the same time confusing both for Ellery and Reed, and for the reader too. After the horrendous trauma Ellery endured at the hands of a serial killer when she was a teenager, she is unable to let go of the past, unable to form new relationships and her life in general is just a mess. Reed is one of very few people who can understand what she went through because he was the agent who rescued her. Sixteen years later he is still there when she needs him. As a reader, it was painful to watch Ellery struggle with her past, unable to open up to anyone, even Reed. I just wanted Ellery to break the prison walls she built around herself. I am looking forward to the next installment, to seeing how their relationship progresses and what other investigations they will undertake together.
*ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
No Mercy is the second book in Ellery Hathaway series and is best enjoyed after reading the first book, The Vanishing Season. In No Mercy, Ellery is on involuntary leave and is forced to attend group therapy sessions in order to keep her police job. At the group therapy she meets other victims of violent crimes. With the help of an FBI agent and her only friend, Reed Markham, she starts to investigate two different crimes, an unsolved brutal rape of a young woman and 26 years-old deadly arson for which possibly a wrong man was convicted.
I enjoyed the first book immensely and No Mercy was just as good as the fist book. I liked both mysteries in this book, but for me the best part of the series is Ellery and Reed's relationship. It’s so dynamic and complex and at the same time confusing both for Ellery and Reed, and for the reader too. After the horrendous trauma Ellery endured at the hands of a serial killer when she was a teenager, she is unable to let go of the past, unable to form new relationships and her life in general is just a mess. Reed is one of very few people who can understand what she went through because he was the agent who rescued her. Sixteen years later he is still there when she needs him. As a reader, it was painful to watch Ellery struggle with her past, unable to open up to anyone, even Reed. I just wanted Ellery to break the prison walls she built around herself. I am looking forward to the next installment, to seeing how their relationship progresses and what other investigations they will undertake together.
*ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 16, 2019
No Mercy is the 2nd book in the Ellery Hathaway series. I recommend reading the first book prior to reading this one.
The book was ok for me. There is a lot going on. Police officer Ellery Hathaway is on involuntary leave from her job because she shot a murderer in cold blood. She is forced to see a psychiatrist to see if she is capable to return back to work. Her doctor ordered her to go to group meetings for survivors of violent crime. There, she meets Wendy, a rape survivor, and Myra, who survived a burning building but lost her 2-yr old son. It's been 25 years since Myra's ordeal and the person responsible the fire is up for parole. Ellery and FBI profiler Reed Markham join forces once again to catch Wendy's raper and to find out who really started the fire.
I found Ellery to be more irritating as I was reading the book. She is supposed to be a police office with training, but her actions are impulsive and irrational. I like Reed's character but the things he was doing wasn't believable. Disobeying boss' orders and giving up not only his career but a chance for a promotion that would let him spend more time with his daughter. And all because he is "hot" for a girl. A girl that he rescued when she was 14 years old. The "romance" between them has no chemistry and seems forced. It's actually downright creepy and wrong to me.
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for a copy of Joanna Schaffhausen's "No Mercy" in exchange of an honest review.
The book was ok for me. There is a lot going on. Police officer Ellery Hathaway is on involuntary leave from her job because she shot a murderer in cold blood. She is forced to see a psychiatrist to see if she is capable to return back to work. Her doctor ordered her to go to group meetings for survivors of violent crime. There, she meets Wendy, a rape survivor, and Myra, who survived a burning building but lost her 2-yr old son. It's been 25 years since Myra's ordeal and the person responsible the fire is up for parole. Ellery and FBI profiler Reed Markham join forces once again to catch Wendy's raper and to find out who really started the fire.
I found Ellery to be more irritating as I was reading the book. She is supposed to be a police office with training, but her actions are impulsive and irrational. I like Reed's character but the things he was doing wasn't believable. Disobeying boss' orders and giving up not only his career but a chance for a promotion that would let him spend more time with his daughter. And all because he is "hot" for a girl. A girl that he rescued when she was 14 years old. The "romance" between them has no chemistry and seems forced. It's actually downright creepy and wrong to me.
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for a copy of Joanna Schaffhausen's "No Mercy" in exchange of an honest review.
September 22, 2024
This is the second in the Ellery Hathaway series. I read books 1 and 3-5 and wanted to go back and read this one that I missed.
Ellery is on leave from the Woodbury MA police department as a result of actions that occurred in Book 1. Receiving therapy and enrolled in a survivors group, she is approached by a young rape victim for assistance in finding her tormentor; the police are getting no where. She also encounters a victim of a fire that killed the victim’s son and thinks that the person arrested many years ago for the crime is not the true culprit. She feels compelled to investigate and calls upon FBI agent Reed Markham to assist. They have a history. Ellery was kidnapped by a serial killer when she was fourteen. She survived because Markham figured out who the killer was and saved her. Markham puts in job in jeopardy once again to rush to Ellery’s side.
I really like Schaffhausen’s writing and this book is no exception. Once again, I stayed up late into the night to finish it because I could not put it down. It is another well plotted addition to the the series with good character development. The reader is also given insight into the role of behavior analysis in identifying criminals.
Thanks to #NetGalley and @StMartinsPress #MinotaurBooks for the DRC.
Ellery is on leave from the Woodbury MA police department as a result of actions that occurred in Book 1. Receiving therapy and enrolled in a survivors group, she is approached by a young rape victim for assistance in finding her tormentor; the police are getting no where. She also encounters a victim of a fire that killed the victim’s son and thinks that the person arrested many years ago for the crime is not the true culprit. She feels compelled to investigate and calls upon FBI agent Reed Markham to assist. They have a history. Ellery was kidnapped by a serial killer when she was fourteen. She survived because Markham figured out who the killer was and saved her. Markham puts in job in jeopardy once again to rush to Ellery’s side.
I really like Schaffhausen’s writing and this book is no exception. Once again, I stayed up late into the night to finish it because I could not put it down. It is another well plotted addition to the the series with good character development. The reader is also given insight into the role of behavior analysis in identifying criminals.
Thanks to #NetGalley and @StMartinsPress #MinotaurBooks for the DRC.
February 8, 2020
In book two in the Ellery Hathaway series, Ellery is on suspension from the police department after a shooting death and needs to attend group therapy sessions to prove she has recovered from the trauma she has lived through. At the meetings, she meets two women and becomes involved in their cases, even calling in FBI agent Reed Markham once again to help. Ellery seems willing to risk her life for these women in pursuit of the truth and in doing so, reveals some of her own psychological damage. The sexual tension between Ellery and Reed grows in this story--will their relationship ever have a 'happily ever after' ending? This book ends with an interesting revelation for Reed which I am sure will be pursued in book 3. Can't wait!
I received arcs of all three books in this series from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. Many thanks for the opportunity!
I received arcs of all three books in this series from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. Many thanks for the opportunity!
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