I like Grave Mercy. 
 ***** 
 Warning: the action-packed scenes is just average in Grave Mercy. Three, four times? I was prepared to be whipped by a butt-kicking heroine but it just didn't happen. the romance was okay. But the true purpose of Mortain's Handmaidens of Death is simply... noble. The complete turnaround of Ismae's beliefs was surprising. 
 The premise is unique, i'd tell you that. The characters are alright; in the end, i loved deLornay the most (not because he is pretty) and following him is Beast. 
 The play for political intrigue is too long, though. Also, I was expecting a lot of fights (battles, even) but i was disappointed. 
 The paranormal elements of Grave Mercy was enjoyable. I don't get to read that kind of thing everyday. If you are to pick this up, don't think too much. Just go with the flow and i'm sure you'll like it.