Lovers of romantic fantasy who enjoy quirky, humor-infused narratives will relish The Undertaking of Hart and Mercy by Megan Bannen. Comparable to fans of Gail Carriger's Soulless and Alix E. Harrow's The Ten Thousand Doors of January, these readers appreciate whimsical worlds where love and adventure intertwine.

The Undertaking of Hart and Mercy by Megan Bannen is a fantasy romance novel set in a world where Hart, a marshal protecting human and animal souls, and Mercy, an undertaker, form an unexpected bond. As they navigate their demanding professions, their initial animosity transforms into deeper emotions, entwining their fates.

The Undertaking of Hart and Mercy by Megan Bannen blends fantasy and romance in a unique, engaging narrative. Critics praise the distinct, quirky characters and heartfelt connections. However, some find the pacing uneven and the plot predictable at times. Overall, it's a charming story with a refreshing take on familiar tropes, appealing to fans of both genres.

**Hart Ralston**  
A demigod marshal with pale gray eyes and shaggy blond hair, known for his curmudgeonly and taciturn nature, who struggles with loneliness and questions about mortality.

**Mercy Birdsall**  
An optimistic woman with dark curly hair, who runs her family’s funeral business in the border town of Eternity and has a fiery dynamic with Hart.

**Pen Duckers**  
Enthusiastic and friendly, he is Hart's apprentice and quickly forms close relationships with the Birdsall family while encouraging honesty.

**Alma Maguire**  
Hart's boss and old friend who shares a demigod heritage; she is one of his few close connections alongside her wife, Diane.

**Zeddie Birdsall**  
Mercy's younger brother, who is expected to join the family business but reveals ambitions to become a chef, causing family tension.

**Roy Birdsall**  
Mercy’s father and owner of Birdsall and Son, who struggles with health issues and traditional expectations about the family business.

**Lillian Birdsall**  
Mercy’s sister and confidante, who supports Mercy in balancing family duties with personal ambitions.

**Curtis Cunningham**  
A rival funeral service owner and antagonist who uses unfair tactics to threaten the Birdsall family’s business.

**Horatio and Bassareus**  
Nimkilim creatures and postal workers, with Horatio being a fashionable owl and Bassareus a foul-mouthed rabbit, both bridging worlds between gods and humans.

Megan Bannen

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Chapters 1-7

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Chapters 8-14

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Chapters 15-21

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Chapters 22-28

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Chapters 29-35

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Chapter 36-Epilogue

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