The Price of Mercy

Dying for Love #2

by Misti Wilds

Wishing for things you shouldn't makes them come true.

Like craving the touch of the man who wants to kill you.
Feeling the heat of his lover's jealous gaze.
Or tasting the desire on your best friend's lips.

Some people would call me selfish for wanting three wicked men, but if you knew the strings attached--saw the shadows they keep--you'd pity my heart for the pain. Because these men don't just love--they covet. They bleed. What started as a game becomes a battle for love, and none of us are coming out unscathed.

Playing with hearts has deadly consequences.



Book 2 of the Dying for Love duet, immediately following the events of book 1, Begging for Mercy.
Dark, angsty romance. HEA guaranteed.

Genres: Dark, Why Choose, Dark Romance, College, BDSM, Menage, Romance

438 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 21, 2025

About the author

Misti Wilds is a lover of all things romance, especially when the spice is habanero hot and the men are morally gray and dangerous. She devours angst like her favorite M&M cookies--all at once with no regrets. When she isn't writing why choose romance, she can be found floating in the lake with her favorite sun hat or playing video games while surrounded by Squishmallows. She lives in Southern USA with her number one fans (an adoring husband and two precious pups).

Reviews

[Nimi (Warner's Wife ) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not bad, not great just vibes. A few fun moments, but nothing that stayed with me.

[Kelly Money-Birchard · Rating 4 out of 5]

Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶🌶

We love a good Why Choose, don't we ladies?

Book 2 of Dying for Love The Price of Mercy is filled with slow-burning angst that leaves you questioning which MMC you are routing for. Ultimately taking you on an emotional ride.

Following up from Book 1, Begging for Mercy, is she able to make Reaper fall in love with her? Does she manage to seduce Zane into having sex with her. Or does she truly love Sam?

Mercy finds herself immersed in a situation she never even considered possible for her. Stereotyped as "The Dead Girl" not only due to the family's Mortuary business, but her dark Gothic inspired wardrobe and love of painting and sketching, she is not exactly the social butterfly or one to focus on boys. Until the infamous campus Sex God "Reaper" (Kane) decides to make her his sole mission. Not only to torment and play with, but to murder.

Sam is your gorgeous, caring, attentive best friend who always shows up regardless of the situation. He loves Mercy and has for their entire friendship, but he has had the worst luck breaking through that friend zone barrier; that is until Mercy's life is on the line. Now its a race to save her from the Reaper (Kane). Not just saving her life, but protecting her virginity too.

Rounding out our trio of men is Zane. Who would like nothing more than for Mercy to disappear and preferably no longer be breathing as she is the biggest threat to his complex relationship with Reaper (Kane). But the longer they play this Murder inspired "Kitten" (yes, I said kitten) and mouse game, will Zane also succumb to all things Mercy? Is sharing something he can do?

Opinions and Spoilers ahead. Readers be aware:

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I liked this book as a whole. It is full of angst and Misti Wilds has you questioning who Mercy should/would chose and why. While I always rooted for Sam, there was a strong desire for her to let Reaper "take her". As for Zane, his Character was frustrating for me because one second you really thought he was coming around to Mercy and that he was just hiding his true feelings. But then he would revert back to plotting her murder and figuring out how to keep Reaper (Kane) from falling in love with her. His whiplash of indecision was exhausting and annoying for me personally. For me he is Katy Perry 🎼 🎵 🎶 YOU'RE HOT THEN YOU'RE COLD! YOU'RE YES THEN YOU'RE NO! YOU'RE IN THEN YOU'RE OUT! YOU'RE UP THEN YOU'RE DOWN!🎶🎵🎼 He eventually makes his way around, but the road to get there was repetitive.

I was excited for this book because I like dark romance and enjoy a good murder plot, but that storyline took a backseat to Mercy's virginity and that part was disappointing. I would have also loved for Sam's family situation (Evil Father) to make an earlier appearance and play more of a role in overall story. While the plot of the book fell short for my liking, the spice and attraction levels of most of the Characters was very well written!

[Morally_Gray_Nola · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this second, and final, installment of the Dark College duet, author Misti Wilds lives up to her name, because ‘The Price of Mercy’ is WILD. There was something thrilling happening in every chapter. I think Sam got the shaft a bit and deserved … better. But, in the end, I feel overall their dynamics made more sense/were more cohesive by the last page—The family as a whole was settling.

I would like to see a story for Malachi. After the terrors he suffered through, he deserves to find his own happiness. His own version of ‘Mercy’.

*** Recommended ***

MMC:
✨Kane ‘Reaper’
✨Sam
✨Zane
FMC:
✨Mercy
HEA/Cliffhanger:
✨HEA
Epilogue:
🌗yes
Tropes:
👉Dark bully college romance
👉Why Choose
👉Virgin FMC
👉Foster brother lovers
👉Enemies to lovers
Triggers:
💥18+
💥sex - graphic, on-page, pretty much anything you can think of sex/kink/bdsm/play
💥profanity
💥violence
* physical, physical and verbal between MMC & FMC, guns, potential SA situation, dismemberment, torture
💥death
* homicidal fantasies, suicidal thoughts - brief, murder, attempted smother w/pillow,
💥mental
* depression, medications, suicidal thoughts - brief, self-loathing, lack of self care
* manipulation
* emotional, mental
💥betrayal
💥stalking
* to include: cameras in bedroom, spying
💥jealousy
💥frat/college parties w/alcohol
💥horrible parent
Burn Speed:
✨fast
Spice Level:
✨🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ 1/2
✨MF
✨MM
✨MFM
✨MMF
✨MMFM.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Dawn Smit · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read Begging For Mercy 1st!!

I'm reviewing both books together because you can't - well you can but you shouldn't - read one without the other

A serial killer, a football star, a goth girl and a jealous stalker 🙋🏻‍♀️🖤 yes please

We start book 1 with a 'game' Mercy has to play after tripping over a dead body and disturbing the killers

It's a simple game… follow the rules and win…
1) Avoid falling for Reaper as he tries to sleep with me or die
2) Seduce the man who hates me or die
3) Fall in love with my best friend or die

But now what started as a game becomes a battle for love and no-one is coming out unscathed.

This is a why choose, reverse harem, enemies to lovers, friends to lovers, MMFM, slow burn, dark romance 🖤 and Misti Wilds knows how to write them dark and spicy!!!

These books grabbed hold of me so hard I devoured them with only the shortest essential nap needed to keep going 🙈

The spice, the burn, the yearning, the thrill 😱 book 2 delivers all the character growth we were craving, reveals all the secrets and tests the loyalties

These 3 boys will be living rent free in my heart forever

If you like your books dark and smutty 😈 then read these 2 and enjoy!! pack snacks and stay hydrated 🖤

Thank you Misti, my dark romance smutty queen, for another incredible book and the ARC opportunity

[Mimi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Begging for Mercy left me hanging off a cliff, and the second I grabbed The Price of Mercy, I knew Misti Wilds was about to ruin my life in the best way. And WOW—she did not disappoint.

Book two is dark, twisted, and deliciously HOT from start to finish. The chemistry? Explosive. The tension? Off-the-charts. And the way they all come together—emotionally and physically—creates a romance that is just as intense as it is addictive.

This is a story that burns, consumes, and rewards you with a sinfully perfect HEA.
If you love your romance bold, wicked, and absolutely unforgettable, this series is a must-read!

[Lian Carver · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book, and I recommend reading begging for mercy first before jumping into this one!!

We jump right back in from where we left off in book one, and this is better than the first book… The characters development is beautiful and you can relate to them and fall in love.

This does grip you from the start and I personally lived this book!!

Highly recommend both of these books!!

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW!!! Freaking amazing read!!! Lots of twists throughout the book to keep my attention. Storyline was well written and full of awesome details. Main characters were relatable, their journey together wasn't without hurdles. Read cover to cover, it was that good.

[MarQueX · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn’t realize a slow burn could be so spicy until reading this book. And I am usually not a big fan of slow burns, but this was definitely the exception. You want to read Begging for Mercy first otherwise the book doesn’t make sense. Maybe you could get what is going on, but you really won’t get the impact of the relationships of the characters - and boy are they significant. The multi - POV allows you to get a glimpse into everyone’s side of the story so you feel like you are immersed in the book. As a whole, this was a great read and definitely was not predictable. It is a good RH book because it doesn’t follow the pattern you would expect and the each relationship develops uniquely - though I will say Kane has a way of being very much a focal point in a way that your morally black character can only do.

Spoilers-

So I absolutely loved Kane! He was by far my favorite because he had such a vibe to him. He is the honesty, no filter, you have to love him energy. You can feel Zane’s struggle and emotions through the book, but once he falls its like a tidal wave and it is so well written because you see it there all along so that you just are waiting on the edge of your seat for it to fall together. And Sam- he carries the golden retriever with a dark edge very well. I was all for the relationship that developed between Sam and Kane and I think it made the story that much better. Plus I loved the Morningstar family- both Dad and Grandma and how they just work with the guys is great.

This was a really great book that I not only enjoyed reading, but couldn’t put down. I wanted to find out what was going on and it moved so fast that you didn’t feel like you were being pulled along just for unnecessary writing. I also loved the multiple POVs because they were genuinely different, not the same stuff recapped from different POV. Wilds was not giving you fluff, but a complete book where every part was needed and added to the story!

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

+Edited post-Bonus Epilogue

A delicious dark romance that flirts with the line between desire and death...

Part 2 of the Dying for Love Duology, The Price of Mercy, picks up seamlessly where Begging for Mercy left off, following Mercy and her men as they navigate the murky waters of love, loyalty, and lethal intentions.

One of the story’s brightest spots is the slow-burn bromance between Kane and Sam. It is charming, humorous, and genuinely endearing. Equally delightful is the budding connection between Kane, Zane, and Mercy’s family, which adds warmth and levity. I especially appreciated Kane’s fierce protectiveness over Mercy in the aftermath of book one’s harrowing conclusion. Not to mention, the rising sexual tension from Begging for Mercy is paid in full.

However, the original central conflict is replaced by a less compelling antagonist, who is defeated easily. At the end, though, there is a callback to the beginning conflict that is fun and appropriate to the relationship development throughout the duology.

There are other issues that present as well. Kane and Zane’s darker tendencies are teased but never fully explored, leaving their motivations frustratingly vague. The narrative also feels fragmented, often abandoning scenes mid-beat to leap into new perspectives or settings without resolution.

As a devoted fan of Begging for Mercy and the broader Baranova universe, I came in with high hopes, and ultimately, I wasn't disappointed. If you enjoy a dark romp through a MMFM reverse harem, put this series on your TBR.

The Price of Mercy 3.5🌟 5🌶
Dying for Love Duology 4🌟 5🌶

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn’t wait to get my hands on the second installment of this duet, and I'm thrilled to say that while I loved Begging for Mercy, The Price of Mercy was even better than I anticipated! This conclusion delivers the intensity, darkness, and character growth I was craving.

The story picks up right where the first book left off, throwing us immediately into the intense aftermath of the party and the resulting fallout. Secrets are revealed, loyalties are tested and relationships shift.

What I loved most was the character development and how this foursome’s relationship grew. Misti Wilds expertly navigated the emotional baggage of Mercy, Sam, Kane, and Zane, making their union messy, complex, and incredibly earned.

Mercy, known around town as ‘The Dead Girl’, finds her voice and strength. Her comfort in her art and at her family's mortuary gives her such a unique, quiet resilience that blossoms beautifully in this book.

Sam is Mercy’s loyal best friend, and he wants her more than the air he breathes. All he wants is Mercy and to make his own choices in life over what his father wants and the legacy he will be forced to take over. He vows to protect her and make her happy, even if that means he has to share her.

Kane is probably my favorite character in this duet. Yes, he’s a serial unaliver but once I reached the end of this story – I got it. I understood the ‘why’ behind it and what motivated him. In real life I would be running from all his red flags, but in fiction? Yes, please…give me more! In the beginning, he looked at Mercy as #44. He had plans for her that didn't include feelings... until they did. Watching him contend with the depth of his unexpected emotions was perfect.

Zane…oh, my beautiful Zane. His deep-seated fear of being replaced and the intense obsession/need he has for Kane drives him to some really messed up (but totally understandable in context) decisions. His growth and acceptance were the most rewarding to witness.

The way these four come together is messy and, at times, downright dangerous, but in the end, they make it work. One thing I adored was the preservation of individual relationships: the powerful bond between Mercy and Sam, and the deep, possessive love between Kane and Zane. Maintaining these separate, strong connections was vital and did justice to the overall group dynamic.

Beyond the four main characters, I absolutely loved the found-family aspect. Vinicius and Grandma Star opening their home and hearts to Kane and Zane was perfect. The relationship development between Vinicius and Kane was a highlight that added a touch of warmth to the chaos. Grandma Star was so endearing. I loved how she kept a quiet watch over those she cared for. And I am totally intrigued by Malachi – I’m keeping my fingers crossed that he gets his own book!

My only minor criticism is that a few scenes felt a little rushed at times; I just wanted more depth in those moments. However, this in no way took away from my overall enjoyment of the book.

If you’re looking for a dark, why choose romance featuring a feisty FMC, deliciously dark ‘brothers’, and a loyal best friend with a vicious bite, this duet is a must-read!

[Brandy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book gets a good solid 4 stars stars. Please make sure that you read triggers and have read the first book until diving into this one. If you try and read this by itself, there are a lot of aspects you will not understand.

So let me start off with why this got a 4 star rating. While yes I did read it in 1 day (took all Saturday reading), I found myself still thinking about a few things that were not answered. Now do they really hurt the story one way or another? Probably not but for my reading brain, I wanted them. The best examples I can give without giving spoilers is how did dear old dad know where he was at (I have my assumptions but would have liked to know for sure - but also can't say more without spoilers) and why not the sister...... OH and why was the dear old dad more interested in her???? Once you read it, you will understand. The last was once everything was done and there was the HEA, did the boys not continue doing what they were doing? I assume not but it isn't specified.

Ok, so here is my quick"ish" breakdown of the story. The book starts off right where the last ended. Mercy is still a virgin and is in a triangle with these 3 guys (Kane, Zane, and Sam). The first half of the book is spicy. It is about the game, Mercy loosing her virginity and how they all start to come together. While Sam doesn't like to share, he is going to have to learn how to share. Then a little after 50%, something happens while they are away that turns the world upside down. Sam has to make some choices while Mercy works on Zane and trying to stay alive. As the book progresses, you learn that these characters find their found family and they all have 1 thing in common... Yep you guessed it, Mercy..... And you also learn that Mercy for just having lost her virginity a short period of time enjoys her 3 men..... Each in their own way.

While this book is predictable, it was enjoyable to read. I was thinking it was going to be mainly spice with the way the first half of the book was going (for me to enjoy a spicy book, I need at least 50% plot). This did deliver on plot as even during the spicy scenes in the first half of the book, there was meaning behind what was going on.... This book has multiple scenes where all 3 guys are involved in some shape or fashion during the spicy scenes. And if you remember from book 1, Kane likes all types and isn't picky. Zane prefers males but has also been with females. So again, check the triggers to make sure before diving into this duo logy. I appreciate the author sending me a copy of the book. I will definitely read more of her books.

[Renee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.

This is the final book in the Dying for Love Duet. You have to read Begging for Mercy first or you are going to be very lost. This book picks up where the first book ended. I really couldn't wait to get this book in my hands. After the way Begging For Mercy ended I needed to know what was going to happen. I thought that book was really a great read but this one is even better. Now we are diving back in at the point where the party is over and these characters are dealing with the aftermath of the party. There is a lot of fallout happening and you will get to hear some secrets that will be revealed. These character that we have gotten to know Mercy, Sam, Kane and Zane really go though some serious growth in this book. Their relationship grows and it doesn't feel like four different people in four relationship. It feels like one relationship where they are sticking together and all on the same page. I love that Mercy finds her strength and voice in this book. Sam is still her loyal best friend that wants her with his very being. He really wants her to make her own choices and not live under her fathers thumb. He just wants her happy and to protect her always. Kane is a man you certainly want to your side. I'd had to be on the list of a serial killer. I promise that by the time you get to the end of the book you know why he does what he does. He is waving all the red flags and you can't help but fall of this guy. He sure never thought a girl carry a number that means something to him would be the woman that finally he loves and to be having all these feelings for her. Then we have Zane. He is the man that will break your heart at times. He is so fearful of being replaced while being having this deep need and obsession for Kane. He is going to make some decisions that will have you rattled but you will get it all by the end of the book. I highly recommend this duet. This is also the first duet I have read by Misti Wild and I loved every single second of it.

[Rechal · Rating 4 out of 5]

Getting into this book — it slid back into the story exactly how I wanted. No over-explaining, no weird pacing issues, just straight back into the tension, the arguments, the chaos, like I’d never left. The vibe shift from book one was smooth, and watching these characters slowly unknot themselves around each other again had me locked in from the jump.

And the character development?? Sam and Zane were carrying the entire emotional arc like it was their 9-to-5.

This book leans heavily into their POVs, and honestly, it worked.

Sam — Mr. “I don’t share” — suddenly realizing not only is he okay with it, but he enjoys Mercy enjoying it? Growth so loud it shook the room.
And Zane?? From “I hate her” to “I will die for her and smile while doing it”? Please. I was kicking my feet.

Kane, meanwhile, stayed the chaotic artistic menace we needed. Violent energy, soft hands, emotionally confusing — and somehow the one who makes Mercy feel the safest. Iconic behavior.

And not to be dramatic, but these three deserved the happy ending they got. After everything? Yeah. They earned that.

BUT!!

The ending did feel like someone hit the fast-forward button a little too hard. There was a LOT of information suddenly yeeted at us, and Samson’s exit? That man disappeared quicker than my will to study. He definitely deserved a bit more… suffering. Just saying.

Solid. Enjoyable. Fun. But it didn’t have that feral, unhinged, throw-your-phone-across-the-room energy book one had.The final spicy scene, though? Yeah, she did not hold back. That one hit.

Also — apparently Enzo has a book?? Hello? Why did no one tell me this? I need to dive into that chaos next.

Overall, this was an easy 4/5 for me.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5

I liked it a lot — didn’t completely dethrone book one for me — but it was still addictive, dramatic in the best way, and filled with the messy, morally questionable men I signed up for.

Thank you so much for the ARC!!

[Kinjal Patel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unhinged men and messy emotions

This duet has been living rent-free in my head since Begging for Mercy, so diving into book two was a mustand honestly, it gave me everything I was hoping for and then some. The story picks up right where the chaos left off, and from the first few chapters you can tell that things are about to get darker, messier, and a whole lot more intense.

What stood out the most in this book was the character work. Mercy really grows into her ow there’s this quiet strength in her now. For someone who’s been called “The Dead Girl” her whole life, she finally takes control of her story, and I loved watching that shift.

The guys were just as addictive for me. Sam is still that fiercely loyal best friend who would burn the world for her, but we finally see him fighting for what he wants, not just what’s expected of him. Kane somehow became my favorit. By the end, I finally understood the “why” behind all of his choices. And Zane… his fear of losing the people he loves makes him act out in the worst (and most understandable) ways. His growth was one of the strongest parts of the story.

Their dynamic as a group is messy, toxic, emotional, and surprisingly tender in the moments where it counts. I loved that their connections don’t blur into one, they each have their own bond with Mercy, and Kane and Zane’s relationship stays just as important as ever.

Beyond them, the found family element was such a good touch. Vinicius and Grandma Star brought warmth to a book that’s otherwise drenched in violence and obsession. And Malachi? I’m not done thinking about him. I need his story yesterday.

Overall, this finale is dark, steamy, chaotic, and completely addictive. If you’re into unhinged men, messy emotions, and a why-choose that actually develops its characters, this duet is absolutely worth binge-reading.

[Caitie Christian · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / Price of Mercy by Misti Wilds — Book 2 Review

Dying for Love Duet Finale | Misti Wilds (@mistiwildsauthor)

If Begging for Mercy started with a bang, Price of Mercy rips the gate off the cemetery, throws everyone back into the grave, and says good luck surviving this one. Book two takes every dark, delicious thread from book one and turns it into a full-blown, obsession-fueled inferno.

Where book one simmered, this one erupts. The spice?
⛓️🔥 Off. The. Charts.
And not just “extra spicy”… I mean feral, jealous, possessive levels of heat.

Mercy is still the goth heroine of my dark little heart—witty, chaotic, disaster-coded but so easy to root for. But her men?

They are done pretending they’re not obsessed.

💀 Kane (Reaper) — unholy, magnetic, and dangerously devoted
🗡️ Zane — sharp edges, buried secrets, angst for days
💋 Sam — the best friend who’s officially crossed the line from “maybe” to “mine”

This book leans hard into:
• Why-choose chaos but darker and more intense
• Open-door spice that escalates wildly
• Jealousy, possessiveness, and everyone finally cracking
• MM tension woven throughout
• Devotion that feels carved in bone
• Dark themes + emotional unraveling + obsession turned love

The “game” from book one becomes a full-scale battle of hearts, shadows, and secrets—and Mercy is no longer just the dead girl watching the storm… she is the storm.

But even with all the shadows and sharp edges, the duet delivers the HEA these characters bleed for.

If you loved the unhinged energy, the red-flag parade, and the slow-burn tension of book one, Price of Mercy takes everything to the next level. Darker. Spicier. Bloodier. More chaotic. And the perfect finale to this twisted love story.

[Leslie Brambila · Rating 2 out of 5]

*ARC*

For the most part I enjoyed this duology. I really enjoyed book one and was really looking forward to book 2.

It was overall a fun read. Fast paced and smutty. But the characters started to get on my nerves a bit. Our FMC Mercy doesn’t seem to really overcome her insecurities and her inner monologues reflecting that started to get on my nerves by the end of my reading.

There were definitely some cringey bits with the language used and some of the over the top ways the characters react. Don’t get me wrong, love an unhinged character. But I guess these ones just weren’t for me. 🤷🏽‍♀️

Sam had this moment early in the book of feeling like he’s not good enough for Mercy even his skin tone seemed dirty compared to hers? I genuinely hated that and considered DNFing then.

“My golden skin stands out against hers, making me look like the dirty one. I shouldn’t touch her.”

I took a short break then came back thinking maybe we’ll have a little redemption moment of self acceptance from him later on? Will the author acknowledge this weird moment of his? Nope. Didn’t happen. Honestly left me disappointed and likely won’t read anything else by this author. In retrospect with all the obsession in the language over how white Mercy was I probably should have seen it coming but when this is a book about obsession with serial killers you’re gonna get some obsessive language over everything about the MC including skin, comes with the territory. It usually not like that and gave me the ick.

Smutty scenes were good tho. So if that’s what you’re looking for I think you’ll be happy with it.

[Nicanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic Duet!

📚Book = Duet 2/2,
💕Burn = Slow,
🎭OW/OM Drama = No,
🐺 Alpha Men = Yep,
🔥Heat/spice = 5/10,
😬Angst = Med,
🍆🌮 MM/FF = Yes, MM
🌈RH/ Poly = Poly,
🔹POV = 1st Person, MPV,
🔸Genre = Contemporary Romance,
🔹Tropes = MMFM✨Sėrial Unaliver MMCs✨Life Bets and Games✨ Enėmíes to Løvėrs✨Friends to Løvėrs✨Stälkíng✨Jėaløus/pøssëssíve MMC✨Hidden Cameras✨Gäslìgħting✨Secret & Cønceäled feeling✨
Cliffhanger✨
‼️PLEASE Check TW’s before reading‼️


I'm torn, I loved it all so much, but sometimes it left me asking questions that weren’t really answered, especially in regard to Malachi and Lilith (unless those will be answered more future books?). I also wish the ending could have gone into a lot more details regarding Samuels “punishment”, but then I‘m a bit of a vengeful soul 😈.

We get a deeper connection into Zane in this book, which I absolutely love. I especially adored how Kane knew what Zane needed and how to help him get there, with Mercy’s help of course. Zane is just slowly and reluctantly falling, but when he does fall, he really goes in full throttle.

I loved the character development as we dive more into each character! Sam's possessive side was extra yummy, and my heart broke when he was forced back home with his horrendous dad when they get ensnared with Samuel and have to outsmart their way out from under his thumb.

Kanes personality, is lighthearted and intense all in the best ways, although his psycho ways weren’t as extreme in this one, so I did miss that side of him as he settles for the life besides Mercy and her family, however he never looses his wonderful cheekiness!!

How they all loved Mercy, each in their own ways was fantastically written, you really get the sense of both Kane, Zane and Sam. It was nice and a little refreshing to see a why choose romance where all three men aren't 100% into sharing, but somehow they all still do and secretly they don’t mind it!


Brilliant duet, lots of spice and wonderful characters.

[Samantha Mayes · Rating 4 out of 5]

Begging for Mercy:
When I first read the synopsis way back in August, I jumped in without realizing the series was incomplete. I was bummed for multiple reasons. One, I obviously had to wait for book 2, and two, with the number of books I read as a binger—averaging 250 a year—ongoing series tend to become forgettable over time; this one, however, stuck with me!

The Price of Mercy:
Just like in book one, the characters from beginning to end, while similar to types often depicted in dark romance, were still very much their own. Each POV stood on its own. I never questioned whose POV I was reading at any point.

Everyone’s arc progressed and landed well. The ending made me smile. Like so many others, Sam was my favorite, with Kane in close second!

My biggest issue:
The rate at which Mercy forgave Zane after he assaulted her. He’s a very complex, troubled character that I think could’ve been explored a little more. He definitely had another layer or two that needed peeled back. I know Mercy is kindhearted which is why we love her so much, but she forgave him so quick, too quick—in my personal opinion. Groveling was definitely needed and I definitely think Sam & Kane (especially) should’ve pressed him and supported Mercy more.

As a series/overall:
The premise was unique and kept me invested! Was it action packed or as busy or as plot driven as others? No. Were there big twists or turns? Also no, but that’s ok! This series was very much character driven which is why I enjoyed it.

ARC review ❤️

[Lake Eerie Mermaid · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ The Price of Mercy by Misti Wilds
The explosive finale to The Dark College Duet

If you’ve been counting the days waiting to see how Mercy’s story ends… trust me, it’s worth every minute of the wait.

Misti Wilds delivers a finale that hits every emotional beat—hard—and then follows it up with heat levels that should honestly come with a warning label.

First things first: read Begging for Mercy before diving into this. This duet is meant to be devoured in order, and the payoff in The Price of Mercy lands so much harder when you’re already invested in every twisted, tender, infuriating, delicious dynamic.

✨ What You’ll Get:

Reverse harem done right

Enemies to lovers enemies to obsessed lovers

Slow-burn tension that finally erupts

Friends-to-lovers beats that crack your heart open

And the MMFM smut? INTENSE.
Like—wildly, unapologetically intense.
I’m not kidding when I say I vibrated waiting for this book because I needed to know how it all wrapped up… and Wilds did not disappoint for a single page.


The emotional payoff is gorgeous, the character growth is satisfying, and the spice is dialed up to a level that should be illegal on campus grounds. Each relationship feels earned, layered, and fully realized.

If you love morally black men, and a heroine who grows sharper and stronger with every chapter… this duet is exactly what you should be reading.

The Price of Mercy is everything I hoped for and more. An absolute must-read for reverse harem lovers.

[Danni Drummond · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Prince Of Mercy
Dying for Love Duet Book 2
By Misti Wilds

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶


🖤Dark college romance
☠️Bully romance
🖤Twisted game of life and death
☠️Why choose
🖤Enemies to Lovers
🎄V¡rg¡n FMC
🖤Foster Brothers turned Boyfriends


Misti you have done it again! 👏 😍
This second and final instalment of the Dying for Love Duet threw us right back into the thick of where book one finished off, with Mercy and her men unravelling their emotions after what happened at the Frat party IYKYK. (You MUST read book one for this book to make any sense) but this book was dare I say...steamier? 🥰
Emotions are running high while Zane has no clear idea on whether he wants to f*ck, kiss or K¡ll Mercy UNTIL HE DOES! he realises he would rather die for her and smile doing so than to k¡ll her 😆.
Sam the ever faithful boyfriend is possess¡ve as always until he realises he actually doesn't mind sharing or...watching 😉 because Mercy likes it too!
And Kane oh Kane, always the cheeky flirt who may very well be the referee of the entire thing, and yes while he is a serial unaliver he happens to be the one who makes Mercy feel the safest 😍

This was an absolutely incredible finish to the Duet, the tension, the angst of the boys battling of conflicting emotions, the spice was on point, the bad boys being soft and sweet only for her 😍 I absolutely couldn't get enough!

The Prince Of Mercy is available everywhere NOW 😘🖤

[Jozlynn Curney · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t even know where to start with this review, I thought the first book was my favorite by Misti but this one quickly body slammed it out of the way and claimed the title.

The development of the characters was beautiful to read, especially as someone with both depression and anxiety I could relate with Mercy and Zane in a way that I don’t normally do with characters and that drew me in even more.

I also loved the parallels between Sam’s and Mercy’s relationship, and Kane’s and Zane’s and how both relationships came together, yet has their own separate identities. Although I’ll admit I’m greedy and silently wished Sam had a fun moment with the boys, in a way I’m also happy that he didn’t.

There’s was a few moments where the story/plot felt rushed with how the characters were acting but then you flipped to a different POV and got to see/read the other side(s) of it and it ends up giving the scenes more depth.

There’s so much more I can say about this book, but I might give out spoilers and I try to avoid that. I will say it was a pleasant surprise to see Enzo for a small moment. I would give this book 5/5 stars, and recommend it to all of my dark romantic lovers.

As always, make sure to read the trigger warnings and always protect your mental health.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Mache · Rating 5 out of 5]

If Begging for Mercy had me hooked, The Price of Mercy had me fully obsessed. Misti Wilds raises the stakes in every possible way—emotionally, romantically, and psychologically—while keeping the same dark, intoxicating energy that made book one impossible to put down.

This installment dives deeper into the tangled relationships at the heart of the series, pulling the characters into even more intense territory. The bonds between Mercy and the guys become richer, more complicated, and more vulnerable in ways that feel both earned and explosive. The emotional tension is constant, the character growth is sharp, and the romantic slow burn eventually becomes something even more consuming.

Wilds balances danger, devotion, and darkness with a steady hand, delivering a story where every choice carries weight and every connection feels like it could either save or destroy. The found-family undertones, the loyalty forged under pressure, and the fiercely protective love woven through these pages made this book incredibly satisfying.

By the time I reached the final chapter, I felt like I had survived something right alongside them—and I absolutely loved it.

If you enjoyed the first book’s blend of shadows, desire, and psychological tension, this sequel will give you everything you were craving and more.

[The_Book_Brat · Rating 4 out of 5]

*Why Choose
*Contemporary
*Multi-1st-PoV
*Dark Romance
*College Setting
*☠️ deals
*Gothic Vibes
*Friends to Lovers
*Building Harem (3)
*MM relationship
*Fast Burn
*Book 2 / 2
Darker, deeper and twisted!
Thankfully this book picks up immediately after the first one’s ending and you get to see the very sloooooow beginnings of the possible found family Mercy is the centre of! 😅 You get to see some real character development in this book; Sam is desperate to support Mercy however he can even if it means going against his own nature to share; Zane also had to let go of his own hang ups and realise what Mercy could be for him as well; Kane was erratic as ever but you got to see more depth in his caring side especially after the incident at beginning of the book 🥰 the first section of this book is quite smut focused 🔥🌶️ as Mercy loses her V to the guys she gets to explore a whole let and they definitely realise sharing is caring 🥵
The second half has more plot/action to it and focused on the outer villain threatening the group rather than their bargain 😳 however it did feel that the ending if said villain was rather quick - to fit with the darker and more chaotic themes of the book I’d have liked that a bit more developed and more suffering but that’s just me 😅 overall a satisfying ending to this duology!

[Kilee Goode · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Price of Mercy is a fierce, shadow-soaked ride full of longing, danger, and beautifully messy emotions. Misti Wilds drops you right into a world where desire is a weapon, love comes with sharp edges, and the heart always pays a price.

The dynamic between the heroine and the three men is intense from the start—equal parts craving, fear, and that irresistible, forbidden pull that makes you turn pages way too fast. Each man brings something different to the table: obsession, jealousy, devotion… and the chemistry between all of them is absolutely electric. You can feel the tension simmering in every scene.

I loved how the story balances heat with real emotional stakes. There’s jealousy, loyalty, betrayal, and those moments where you aren’t sure if they’ll kill each other or fall even deeper. The “strings attached” are darker than expected, and the moral grayness makes the relationship dynamics even more compelling.

My only reason for knocking off a star is that some plot points felt a bit rushed—I wanted just a touch more world-building and clarity around the shadows these men carry. But the atmosphere, the writing, and the character chemistry easily kept me hooked.

Wicked, seductive, and full of heartache, The Price of Mercy is a dangerous little treat for readers who love their romance dark, tangled, and emotionally loaded.

[addictedtodarkromance · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is heavily invested in the 4 MCs' relationship growth. Zane and Kane together are kind of "sweet" in an unhinged way. I felt bad for Sam, his true love for Mercy and how he would do anything for her. I wanted to hug him. Then there is still that deal they made from book 1, and they are still trying to work that out.

There was a lot that was going on with each of them, and they had to navigate their demons. Each of them was different, and the relationships between each couple were also unique. I did find it took a little while for them to finally get together, but I think it's because of some of the doubts and insecurities of some of the MCs.

The spicy scenes were HOT and detailed! And the connections were strong.
 
Overall: 4 out of 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice/Heat Intensity: 5 out of 5 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Main Characters: Sam, Kane, Zane & Mercy
Darkness: 3 out of 5 🖤🖤🖤
Type of book: MMMF, Why Choose, Multiple 1st Person POV
Reading Order: Books need to be read in order
Title: Dying for Love Duet- The Price of Mercy: Book 2
Audiobook: n/a as of Dec 2025
Epilogue: Yes
Ending Type: HEA
 
 
*OTT Possessive, obsessive, dominant, and protective MMC
*Love Triangle that ends in HEA for everyone
*Unalivers
*⚔️
*No cheating or sharing outside of the 4 MCs
 
 
⚠️ This book has descriptive parts that may be offensive or triggering to some. Please check all the authors' TW/CW before reading! 18+
 
*I received an early copy of this book & am voluntarily leaving this review.

[Havok · Rating 5 out of 5]

I truly enjoyed this book just as much as the first, if not more.... especially with the smut being turned all the way up 🔥. What I appreciated most is that it isn’t only sex; there’s still plot, emotional moments, and scenes that exist outside the bedroom, which makes everything hit harder.

Kane completely stole my heart. He’s that golden retriever energy with a dangerous, dark edge, and I’m obsessed. Zane feels like the lost puppy, he isnloud, defensive, all bark and no bite but there’s something deeply vulnerable about him that pulls you in and then there’s Sam.… the guardian Rottweiler. Solid, protective, intense. Each of them carries their own darkness, and it’s incredible how that darkness reaches for one another instead of pushing them apart.

Even Mercy fits so seamlessly into their dynamic. You can tell how deeply she loves them all in her own way, and that emotional connection elevates everything. The smut scenes? Absolutely phenomenal. Honestly, some of the best I’ve ever read: intimate, intense, and full of real feeling. The love between Kane and Zane, especially the male/male moments, was deliciously written and added so much depth to their bond.

Misti Wilds introduced an entirely new trope experience for me, and now I’m hooked. I desperately want more of her books because if this is the standard, I’m all in.

[stephanie gaskill · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved loved loved the first book in this series. I JUMPED to be an Arc reader. After discovering Misti through Begging for Mercy, I ate up all her books!

I loved how Misti deep dived into Zane’s brain. We get a deeper connection to him in the first few chapters. I loved the character development! Sam’s possessive side, chefs kiss! Kanes personality was just what we needed to break up those tense moments. I could see how much Kane loved Mercy through the entire book!

🌶️🌶️🌶️.5 spice was there, however it did not have my heart pound at the edge of my seat like the first book in the series.

I will read the series again. However, I do have to say, It did not give me the same feels as the first book, Begging for Mercy.

My thoughts….. I feel as it ended in a hurry, forced ending. Could have been dragged out a bit more; go more in depth with certain characters, done SR more damage.

Seemed like a lot of closed door spice. I’m torn, I liked it but then wondered: THEN WHAT HAPPENED.

I confused the characters Zane and Kane while reading…… I wish the names where different.

I will admit, that last scene 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ at the end of the book. Lord have Mercy! She ended it with a bang 💥or five.

[Keri · Rating 4 out of 5]

After reading Begging for Mercy, I remember wondering how Mercy, Sam, Kane, and Zane would continue to develop and explore their captivating situationship and whether Halloween would be the end of it. The Price of Mercy, which begins at the end of the first book after that tantalizing cliff-hanger, explores how relationships progress between all four characters as Kane and Zane enhance their romance by including Mercy, Mercy and Sam strengthen their romance by finally owning and acting on their feelings for each other, and Sam and Kane form a sort of alliance that could be called a bromance. I love how these relationships evolve and how each character learns something new about themselves, becoming more secure in their relationships, more trusting of others, and more hopeful about the future. I also love that this book has all the angst, danger, drama, humor, and violence of the first book but features even more steam (in many different and amazing ways).

I will say that this would have been a five-star read had Misti Wilds made the antagonist a little more realistic (i.e., difficult to deal with) and provided more information on the Morningstar family after introducing certain intriguing characters; however, maybe readers will learn more about Mercy's brother and sister in another book or series (I'd love that), and maybe Misti wanted to focus on Mercy and her men more than anyone else. In any case, The Price of Mercy is an entertaining dark romance with a satisfying HEA, and overall, the Dying for Love series is engaging, exciting, and sexy, with interesting characters who demonstrate that blood does not make one family and that obsession can lead to freedom, healing, and love as well as danger. I love Misti's complex characters and stories, and I can't wait to read her next book.

[Sydney Aymar · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Price of Mercy is the second book in the Dying for Love duet and it completely exceeded my expectations. I already loved the first book Begging for Mercy but this one somehow manages to be even better. I recommend checking the triggers because this story does explore some sensitive themes.

What stood out most to me was the character development. This book gives a deeper look into the characters internal struggles and the reasons behind their choices and reactions. It adds so much emotional weight and makes every scene feel more meaningful. The saying walking a thin line between love and hate fits this story perfectly. The tension, the longing, and the push and pull between the characters kept me completely invested.

I do not want to spoil anything but the growth of each character was beautiful to read. The way they learned to express fears, acknowledge insecurities, and put each other first created such a powerful group dynamic. Watching them open up and find love and happiness felt incredibly rewarding.

I definitely loved this book even more than the first and I highly recommend the duet to anyone who enjoys emotional, intense, character driven dark romance.

[Jasmin · Rating 5 out of 5]

**ARC REVIEW**

The Price of Mercy by Misti Wilds is book two in the Dying For Love series, and it picks up exactly where Begging for Mercy left off—so definitely read book one first. I devoured this sequel in a single day because I simply had to know what happened next. The writing is sharp, the pacing is relentless, and the suspense, twists, and emotional punches had me hooked from the very first page.

The character dynamics in this book are phenomenal. Mercy, Sam, Kane, and Zane each grow so much, and watching their relationships deepen, fracture, and rebuild was incredibly satisfying. The chemistry? Off the charts. The tension? Perfectly crafted. The emotional stakes? Brutal in the best way.

This was a fantastic ending to the duet. I’m sad it’s over, but completely satisfied with how everything wrapped up—especially with the HEA these characters earned after all the pain, chaos, and love they endured.

A must-read for fans of dark romance, suspense, and tangled hearts.


Please make sure to check trigger warnings before diving in.

Thank you to Misti Wilds for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.