Rating: 4.75⭐️
I am absolutely in love with this series and the main character of Merritt Vale. While Merlin’s Waif exists within an established mythology and multi-series universe, this is one that can easily be read on its own entirety.
Authors Renée Jaggér and Michael Anderle have done a fantastic job in creating the universe, and when necessary, supplying the information that is needed from the preceding series so that the reader feels comfortable with the events and characters of the story.
How to describe exactly incredible Merritt Vale is, the details, the absolute devastating background of her story and the beauty and believable growth of character she shows here throughout this book.
She’s the last of her kind. And she’s lost her memory of her species, her family. And this traumatic loss pops up here in unexpected and heartbreaking moments . It brings Merritt’s pain and loss closer to the reader and our connection to her becomes stronger and deeper.
A misplaced orphan who has been rehomed multiple times, never fitting in. Little Avalon, a community in Brooklyn, of likewise misplaced otherworldly beings, becomes her last refuge.
This has great elements to the story. She is ignorant of technology so that is a journey, she’s got prejudices left over from the war, and so much to learn about her own life and powers as well as her ability to make decisions and become part of the community.
Each element and aspect of this narrative is rich in emotion, imagery and colorful details. And don’t get me started here on the food.
There’s no romance. But adventure, mystery and found family.
I’m so happy I found this book and series.
Highly recommended!
Outstanding covers and artwork. One of the things that drew me to this book.
Cover by Mihaela Voicu
Merlin’s Waif (4 book series):
Little Waif Justice #1
Bet on the Waif #2
Waif Too Much #3
No Waif Out #4
Related/preceding series:
Valerie Stonehold (9 book series)
Buy link
A Little Waif Justice (Merlin’s Waif Book 1)
Blurb
Blood doesn’t recognize magic. Earth magic doesn’t recognize rules.
Merritt Vale guards a devastating secret: she’s the last of a legendary species, with powers that could get her killed—or enslaved.
When she stumbles into Little Avalon, a hidden sanctuary thrumming with ancient magic, the earth itself responds to her presence. Roses burst through concrete. Trees bend to her whispers.
For the first time, Merritt dares to hope she’s found a home among its extraordinary residents.
As vicious gangsters terrorize nearby Brooklyn Bridge Park, Merritt discovers her uncontrollable earth magic might be exactly what the city needs.
She prowls the shadowy paths as something ancient and terrifying—a protector the likes of which neither world has seen. Yet every transformation risks exposing her true nature to her newfound family, and the darker truth of why she’s really the last Leshbolg alive.
Can Merritt protect both worlds without losing control of her devastating powers? Or will saving innocent lives mean sacrificing the first place that’s ever felt like home—and the chosen family she’s always dreamed of?
Don’t miss this spellbinding new urban fantasy series that readers are calling “a fresh voice in supernatural fiction.” MERLIN’S WAIF introduces a bold new heroine who must learn that true belonging means embracing every wild, untamed part of yourself—even the parts that terrify you.
DISCLAIMER: If you’ve started the Valerie Stonehold series but haven’t finished it, this contains spoilers. However, it can be read as a stand-alone series.
- Publisher: LMBPN Publishing; 1st edition (February 20, 2025)
- Publication date: February 20, 2025
- Language: English
- Print length: 340 pages
Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words 