Mercykill: Killers by Michael Barnette is the second book in the Mercykill Series.

Mercykill is a J-Rock band that became embroiled in a dangerous situation when their handler and lover Kita was murdered. After given a tip about the murder, they took matters into their own hands, and the only thing that would keep them out of prison or worse was to join the covert group Perseverance to become killers. The training has been arduous for Kei and Juro, but Aki has more difficulties when he is found to be a ghost speaker, which explains his sensitivity and feelings towards others. Each is determined to protect their lovers at all costs especially Aki who in appearance and spirit shows little ability to fight. Kei is the most capable as a killer, but his childhood emotional scars were only starting to heal before Kita was killed. All Aki and Juro can do is love him and hope that things will get better. Juro will do what he must to protect Kei and Aki. After months of training, in spite of the objections from their trainer, Mercykill are given their first assignment that starts with a comeback concert for their rock group. Things at Perseverance may not be as they seem, and the guys from Mercykill will have to pit their skills and wits against a dangerous murderer. Can Aki, Kei and Juro find a way to overcome fate to stay together or will they loose each other for all time?

Mr. Barnette has continued his earlier book Mercykill: Shattered Melody with this phenomenal story that ensnares the reader from the very start. The love that Aki, Juro, Kei, and Kita feel for each other is both beautiful and very erotic. The idea that even though Kita is dead, she will stay with them to protect them is very beautiful. Aki’s ability to see and talk to ghosts isn’t a new one, but the way they incorporate the skill with their work is fascinating. The suspense, drama, love scenes and paranormal situations combine to create an incredible story that reminds us that there maybe things of this world that are beyond our experience, but if we keep our eyes open to the possibilities we could see wondrous things. I for one will be impatiently waiting to learn the fate of the members Mercykill. Thanks go to Mb>Mr. Barnette for another extraordinary story!!

Reviewed by: Teresa