Review: The Exploits of The Damned Spirit, Mercer
Rating: 3 out of 5
Date: 07 7, 2013
Soul Smuggler is a collection of four tales revolving around Mercer, a John Constantine like character, (see the DC/Vertigo Hellblazer comic books) who smuggles suicide souls into Heaven and is the device of the suicides, all for a price.  The powers that be in Heaven do not approve of Mercer bending the rules and routinely send a Holy assassin - a Samurai sword wielding priest - to dispatch him.  Problem is Mercer isn't mortal, but a damned two thousand year old spirit (possibly Judas) who can acquire new mortal flesh should his current container be destroyed.  Hence, Mercer requires regular dispatching until the Holy powers figure a way to contain or destroy him for good.  This is Mercer's world and the stage for these four tales.The first two tales, "The Coyote" and "Soul Smuggler" are more flash fiction pieces that lack a complete conflict layered plot.  Rather, Mercer's services are sought out and then rendered, or in the case of "Soul Smuggler," partially rendered.  Still, they do provide our first enticing look into Mercer's world and his gritty character.In "The Second Option," we see Mercer tangle with the Holy assassin, the hunchbacked Father Thomas, for the first time.  Hence, here we have conflict.  Moreover, we learn about Father Thomas' order, the Terra Sacra and Mercer's ability to acquire new flesh.With "Abomination of Desolation," Father Thomas uses an unholy abomination in the form of a young boy to attempt to ensnare Mercer.  Considering his history with Father Thomas, Mercer does seem to fall for the trap a little too easily.  Yet the confrontation with Billy and Father Thomas pays off well.Mercer and his ongoing conflict with the Heavenly powers has great potential for longer and deeper works.  I would like to see Mercer's motivation alluded to.  Why does he do what his does?  For the money?  To vex the Heavenly powers that damned him?