Apostles of Mercy is the third installment in Lindsay Ellis' Noumena series, an alternative history, first-contact sci-fi saga.

After struggling through the first two books in the Noumena series, I’m honestly surprised I even picked up the third one. I guess my need to finish what I started won out. I went into Axiom's End with high expectations, but I was let down. With Truth of the Divine, my expectations were lower, but still, it didn’t hit the mark for me. By the time I started Apostles of Mercy, my expectations were practically underground. Maybe that’s why it finally worked for me—because, for once, I wasn’t disappointed.

Don’t get me wrong, there are still plenty of issues. Some of the relationships feel forced, and a few moments are a bit jarring. But overall, the improvement in both writing and pacing is impressive. This book almost makes the struggle of the first two worth it. That said, I still don’t like Cora. She’s less annoying and whiny here, and her character has grown since book one, but she’s still not my favorite.

One thing this series made me realize: I really hate when authors use pop culture references to describe things—it dates the book immediately. I get it, you don’t like Bill Maher! Also, I’m beyond relieved not to hear 'animal brain/human brain' again. The repetition of those phrases in the first two books almost drove me insane. There was a new variation of it - but it was only used once or twice so I'm gonna give it a pass.

After finishing Truth of the Divine, I felt a sense of relief to be done. But Apostles of Mercy did the opposite—it left me hopeful. If the original plan for five books comes through and the improvements continue, I could see the Noumena series becoming a sci-fi classic one day.

Rating: ★★★★☆ 4/5

Book & Author Information:

Apostles of Mercy: Goodreads

Lindsay Ellis: Goodreads, Official, Instagram

I wanted to give a quick update on my health-related hiatus. I'm feeling a bit better, and as of now, I plan to return to regular posting by the end of September or early October. However, I won’t be accepting new ARC/review requests until November. I’ve made commitments to several authors, and I want to prioritize those reviews before taking on anything new.

Once I’m caught up, I plan to change how I accept requests, especially when it comes to the volume. I wish I could review every book I’m contacted about, but realistically, I’m no longer able to manage that. This was a difficult decision to make.

To be honest, the stress of regular health appointments and the daily demands of life have taken a toll on my energy and time. It’s been really hard for me not to post as regularly as I would like, and it’s something that has upset me deeply. Reviewing books brings me so much joy, and not being able to do it consistently has been frustrating.

Once again, I want to reassure the authors I’ve promised reviews to that I will absolutely fulfill those commitments. I haven't forgotten any of you and I assure you I am working on those reviews.  

Finally, I want to mention how incredibly grateful I am for the kindness and understanding shown by those who reached out after my last update. I did not expect anyone to care. You are the reason I continue to review books and the reason I still love doing so.

I've always been pretty open about my health and disability, so I wanted to give a quick update. With some upcoming health appointments and a current flare-up, I need to temporarily pause accepting ARCs and review requests.

If we've been in touch and I've confirmed you're in my queue, don't worry—you're still there. I'll do my best to get those reviews out promptly, but please bear with me as it might take a little longer than I'd hoped. If you've read my review policy, this shouldn't come as a surprise.

I'm hopeful things will return to normal soon, and I'll be able to reopen requests then. Thanks for your understanding!