by Kendra Elliot
Series: Mercy Kilpatrick #3
Genres: Mystery
Source: Kindle Unlimited
Purchase*: Amazon | Audible *affiliate
A pair of ritual murders could expose Mercy Kilpatrick to something terrifying: her own past…
Raised off the grid by survivalists, Mercy Kilpatrick believed in no greater safeguard than the backwoods of Oregon. Unforgiven by her father for abandoning the fold for the FBI, Mercy still holds to her past convictions. They’re in her blood. They’re her secrets—as guarded as her private survival retreat hidden away in the foothills.
In a cabin near her hideaway, Mercy encounters a young girl whose grandmother is dying from multiple knife wounds. Hundreds of miles away, a body is discovered slashed to death in a similar way. The victims—a city judge and an old woman living in the woods—couldn’t be more different. With the help of police chief Truman Daly, Mercy must find the killer before the body count rises. Mercy knows that the past has an edge on her. So does her family. How can she keep her secrets now…when they’re the only things that can save her?
I am continuing my quest to read all the Mercy Kilpatrick novels available in Kindle Unlimited before my three-month deal expires. A Merciful Secret by Kendra Elliot is the third book of the series. Set in Oregon, it features an FBI Agent who grew up in a survivalist household. Mercy, the FBI and Police Chief Truman Daly, investigate the murder of an old woman rumored to be a witch.
I am really enjoying this series from the rural setting, to tidbits about preppers included in these suspenseful and deadly cases. As Mercy is returning from her cabin in the wood, a young girl jumps out in front of her car. She lives in a remote wood cabin with her grandmother and mother. The mother isn’t home, but the little girl’s grandmother dies as Mercy tries to aid her. The killer in a rage slashed the poor woman with a blade. When a similar murder occurs the FBI steps in.
This was a fantastic case with a likely suspect and people with secrets. While other agents are quick to point fingers, Mercy continues to dig. I loved how Elliot tied in secondary threads and characters to weave a believable tale and timeline.
The series has romance as Mercy learns to open-up and trust. Elliot serves the developing relationship as a side dish along with a nice helping of Mercy’s estranged family. I adore Mercy’s sister Rose and enjoyed getting updates and seeing a possible love interest for her.
While arc in the series develops the relationships and shows character growth, they will work on their own. Each book has a case that the author takes us through and wraps up before the end. The flow to the stories are easy and I can usually read them in one or two sittings. I can usually deduce who the killer is, but not always, the why, until it’s revealed.
Fans of crime thrillers, small-town series and those interested in learning more about survivalist will enjoy A Merciful Secret and the Mercy Kilpatrick series.
A Merciful Secret by Kendra Elliot offered a thrilling murder-mystery and life developments for FBI Agent Mercy Kilpatrick #thriller, #mystery Share on X
About Kimberly
Kimberly is a coffee loving book addict who reads and listens to fictional stories in all genres. Whovian, Ravenclaw, Howler and proud Nonna. She owns and manages Caffeinated PR. The coffee is always on and she is ready to chat. Twitter | Facebook | Instagram
Melanie Simmons
This sounds like a really interesting series. I’m going to have to look it up.
Kimberly
It’s in KU and comes with audiobook.
Melanie Simmons
I haven’t tried KU, I could still do the free trial. I might have to try that.
Mary @StackingMyBookShelves!
This sounds good. I will have to check out this series. I like reading them in order. That way I don’t feel like I missed something. Great review Kim!
Mary
Kimberly
Yes, I am the same.
sjhigbee
As ever, an excellent review, Kimberly. This is an author I think I need to read.
Kimberly
Not sure about that, but I do hope you try the series.
sherry fundin
Fabulous cover. I am familiar with the author’s name, but I’m not sure if I have read any of her work. I’ll be checking on that.
Kimberly
I hope you do Sherry. I am on book 4 and each book has a unique murder-mystery
Melissa (Books and Things)
Oh I love a good mystery. I may have to get this one for my mom… she loves them more. Now to bug the library… 🙂 Brilly review!
Kimberly
LOL. Good luck!
Angela Adams
The name of the lead character, Mercy Kilpatrick, sticks with readers. Sounds like a great series, too!
Kimberly
Yes, you are right. It was good choice.
Debbie Haupt - The Reading Frenzy
I have seen your reviews and even though I don’t watch TV I know I would like this series. Thanks for sharing your thoughts Kim!
Kimberly
I hope you give them a try.
Anne
I’ve been enjoying this series also.l I like the self sufficiency and the planning aspect of the preppers. Anne – Books of My Heart
Kimberly
Agreed, I am reading the 4th one now. Although I have Magic Triumphs on audio and have set it down for the moment..because…. KATE!
ShootingStarsMag
Sounds like another good addition to the series. I like mystery series that are like this – the characters grow throughout but each book has a new mystery.
-Lauren
Kimberly
Thanks Lauren, I am reading the 4th book in the series now. Each murder mystery is fresh.
Ash
I loooove this cover. I’ll have to look up the first of the series.
Kimberly
I hope you check them out Ash,
Melliane
I always love series like that, it’s fun and interesting. I should try
Kimberly
I hope you decide too.
Angie Elle
So glad you enjoyed this one! I’m a huge Criminal Minds fan, so I love anything to do with the FBI!
Great review.
Kimberly
We enjoy Criminal Minds too.
Nick
I am glad to hear this series is continuing to be a hit for you, Kim! Your reviews have got me totally interested.
Kimberly
The cases are fresh and I like how the relationships and townsfolk continue to develop,