Those Who Dwell in Darkness: A Vampire Thriller

The Assembly, Book 1

By: Steve McHugh

Narrated by: John Banks

The hunt for a serial killer leads a vampire agent to uncover a terrifying conspiracy in this dark urban fantasy by the author of the Hellequin Chronicles.

Vampires and humans live side by side thanks to an uneasy peace maintained by the Assembly. As an Arbiter for the powerful organization, Miles Watson is authorized to act as judge, jury, and executioner for anyone—living or undead—who breaks the law. But now Miles is up against a threat more sinister than anything he's seen in his centuries as a vampire.

A criminal network in London is offering wealthy humans the chance to become vampires without the Assembly's consent. When the process goes disastrously wrong, the Boss wants to eliminate any trace of the fiasco. But a rogue enforcer refuses to play along, and trouble quickly escalates out of anyone's control.

As Miles sets off searching for the illegal vampires, he finds himself on the trail of a monstrous serial killer. The twisty investigation takes him from London's deadly underworld to the rural backwaters of the Pacific Northwest—where an even more devious criminal enterprise threatens all of vampire-kind . . .

Known for his terrifying tales of urban fantasy, author Steve McHugh goes even deeper into the shadows with this noirish vampire thriller, which masterfully combines suspenseful plotting and intricate world-building.

©2023 Steve McHugh (P)2023 Podium Audio

Loved the book

So once again Steve didn't disappoint I love the character of this world, just liked all the other Steve McHugh worlds. I would love to learn more of where Church and Miles come from so I hope there are more books.

I’m pretty sure it was the narrator

I just pushed through because the narrator was distracting. I liked his voice but I don’t think this was the right book and cast of characters for his range

Fast paced blood-thirsty fun.

I love supernatural sub-cultures especially when they are presented alongside humans! I'm always a fan of the wealth of social commentary that flows from this union. Having said that, this is also a really fun romp through the eyes of an heroic vampire working to solve a mystery the consequences of which could set their world on fire. So fun.

Stilted narration

I liked the concept of the book. I likes the overall character and tone of the narrators voice. in general, I had a hard time following the many characters. I didn't care for the affectation or the stilted cadence of the narration. If felt like it was applied to all the characters. Sort of like how NYPD blue tv series characters in the 90s talked. There may have been action, but the narration just made this feel like one monotonous experience. I loved the bond between Church and the main character, however, once I finish trudging through , I won't be revisiting this series.

Phenomenal Story

Excellent character and world building. I appreciate the connection between Myles and Church. The depth of the characters and the balance of what one considers right and wrong add to the richness of the story.

Interesting

Liked that it was difficult to guess what was happening. Interesting world building elements. Looking forward to the continuation of miles Watson’s story.

Very enjoyable

This was a nice change from most vampire stories. I liked the main protagonist. I liked the action sequences. I will be buying others in this series with the world building done so we’ll.

Great story line

I really enjoyed the plot, the characters and the narration. Went at a good pace and tied everything together well.

Great book, horrible narration.

The book is great and is a fun ride throughout. The narration however is horrible. There are parts where it sounds like the "Virtual Voice" they are starting to use on audible, which is horrible. Proceed with caution.

Edited:

The more i listen to this book the more i believe they are using an "AI Generated Voice" for at least some of the voices. Robotic tone with no inflection. Although it is better than the "Virtual Voice" audible has started using, it still sucks.

Terrific!

Those Who Dwell in Darkness
By Steve McHugh
This book was so awesome! Two of my favorite series is from McHugh! If this is the start of another series then I am onboard!
It has vampires, corruption, illegal changing of people to vampires. A serial killer. An Arbiter named Miles, (who decides cases on his own, decides if they are guilty, what do do about it, then punishes), is following this case that leads him further into darker secrets.
This book has a good mystery, horror, creatures, great world building, the creep factor, and had me cheering for Miles who is a powerful being himself! I was never bored! Very exciting and fresh!
Love the cover too! Love his dog too! That's Church! Part vampire!