The vampiric hunt and bone-chilling conspiracies continue in the next installment of the Assembly, a dark urban fantasy by the author of the Hellequin Chronicles. Known for his terrifying tales, Steve McHugh delves even deeper into the shadows of London’s seedy underworld with this noirish vampire thriller series, which masterfully combines suspenseful plotting and intricate world-building.
A Deliberate Act of Violence is the second book in “The Assembly” series.
This series is one of the best things to happen in years! Finally, a vampire book that isn’t about romance, nor just another horror novel. It firmly belongs in the urban fantasy category, and I really wish there were more like it.
So, aside from vampires, who are too busy with political scheming, committing terrible acts, killing people, selling weapons, or trying to stop each other, to think about sex all day, what makes this series so good?
Quite a few things:
1) McHugh excels at writing diverse, well-rounded characters with healthy relationships. (Again, this isn’t a romance! I’m talking about friendships, colleagues, families, … There are romantic relationships in his other books, but those are also just natural parts of the characters, not the romance tropes.)
Instead of the toxic “alpha male” tropes, the characters work together, respect one another, and are unafraid to ask for help when needed. Unless they are stubborn and trying to protect others. They don’t just brush off trauma, they deal with it. No matter a character’s gender, race, sexuality, or religion, if they’re a good person and do their job well, they’re respected. And if they’re a Nazi? Well, they’ll get punched in the face – if they’re lucky.
The conflicts in this story arise from the antagonists or the plot, not from unnecessary drama or miscommunication. I so enjoy spending time around genuinely good people. Not perfect, not pure heroes, they do have flaws and some have a checkered past. They’re happy to do violence when needed, they just try to not harm people without a good reason.
And there’s no objectification of women, either. More urban fantasy like this, please!
2) The story may seem straightforward at first, but as it unfolds, it weaves in twists and turns that form a compelling mystery you’ll want to solve.
3) The world-building is done organically, and as the story progresses, I find myself more intrigued with every new detail.4) McHugh’s writing is smooth and unobtrusive. I easily lost myself in the story and became fully immersed in this world. The dialogue feels authentic, and I love the tone and voice throughout.
5) Church! And no, I’m not talking about religion. Church is the giant vampire-hybrid dog, and she’s a delight! She’s an absolute powerhouse, ripping off the heads of bad guys, but also loves a good belly rub or a tasty burger. What a good girl!
6) The book provides a satisfying conclusion to this story arc, while still leaving enough unanswered questions to leave you eager for the next installment.
It’s clear that I’m thoroughly enjoying this series and would highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys a slightly gory, action-packed urban fantasy.
Why do vampiric dark fantasy worlds always get me XD. I hope I was a vampire in my previous life (but how!?), or later in this one. Love your words on this piece dear! Will subscribe for the next one. <3