Killing Gods: Martin, Hayley & Maria

This is the first of a series of character and group updates for my new book Killing Gods (the sequel to Powerless) which is out on the 22nd July. Please note some minor SPOILERS may apply for those who haven’t yet read the first book, so that’s your own fault.

Martin, Hayley & Maria

Following the events of Powerless, Martin has moved into a new apartment (one with all four walls) thanks to a generous donation from Jack. Unfortunately he hasn’t had the same luck in finding new employment and so remains at the mercy of Hayley, who has decided that they will become a superhero duo. When he does manage to avoid the paparazzi trying to grab a shot of him, his Heroic past having been made public after years of keeping it secret, he still suffers panic attacks in crowds, meaning most of his days are spent indoors, waiting for Hayley to teleport in or for Maria to pay him a visit. Then one day, an enemy from his past decides to come to him with an unusual request.

Meanwhile, Hayley is still hiding her Heroics from the world and her employers. In this version of England it is illegal to openly use your powers or to work in the emergency services if you are powered. So she is forced to work two shifts: one as a Police Constable and the other as a Hero. Having finally found someone to confide in about her abilities, and a famous 90s Hero at that, she is determined to make use of the street gossip and take down criminals with her new partner. When a violent gang start killing old Heroes in public, she takes advantage of both her roles to help track them down.

Maria is still recovering from her injuries and, despite losing an eye and being forced to wear a leg brace, is as stubborn as ever. She knows nothing of Martin’s night-time Heroics with Hayley and when she isn’t trying to save her funding for her psycho-psychiatry studies she visits him for company and friendship, their affair in the 90s always at the back of her mind. After Martin gets his surprise visit she is desperate to prevent him getting involved, in case he should get drawn back into the life they both shared and gave up all those years ago. More than anything else she wants a fresh start for him. For the both of them.