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Hellequin Chronicles #2.5
Infamous Reign
In late 15th century England, two young princes are given over by Merlin to the protection of their uncle, King Richard III. They soon vanish from sight, igniting tales of their demise at Richard’s hand and breeding unrest throughout the land.
Nathanial Garrett, also known as Hellequin, is sent to London to decipher fact from rumor and uncovers a plot to replace the king. But his investigation quickly becomes personal when he learns that an old nemesis is involved. He soon finds himself racing against time to rescue the boys before their fate, and the fate of all England, is sealed in blood.
Infamous Reign is a novella in the popular Hellequin Chronicles series, mixing gritty and action-packed historical fantasy with ancient mythology.
Nathanial Garrett, also known as Hellequin, is sent to London to decipher fact from rumor and uncovers a plot to replace the king. But his investigation quickly becomes personal when he learns that an old nemesis is involved. He soon finds himself racing against time to rescue the boys before their fate, and the fate of all England, is sealed in blood.
Infamous Reign is a novella in the popular Hellequin Chronicles series, mixing gritty and action-packed historical fantasy with ancient mythology.
90 pages, ebook
First published December 7, 2013
197 people are currently reading
775 people want to read
About the author
Steve McHugh
35 books1,901 followersSteve is a bestselling author of Urban Fantasy. His book, Scorched Shadows, was shortlisted for a Gemmell Award for best novel.
Steve was born in a small village called Mexborough, South Yorkshire, but now lives with his wife and three young daughters in Southampton
Steve was born in a small village called Mexborough, South Yorkshire, but now lives with his wife and three young daughters in Southampton
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
April 23, 2018
Great shorter story
Infamous Reign is a Hellequin version of what happened to the two princes in the London tower. Quite interesting and clever!
Infamous Reign is a Hellequin version of what happened to the two princes in the London tower. Quite interesting and clever!
May 12, 2018
Book 1: 3*
Book 2: 3*
Book 2.5: 3.25*
Maybe it was the fact this was shorter or perhaps that all of it took place in the past but I enjoyed this more than the full novels. It just seemed a little less cheesy overall.
Book 2: 3*
Book 2.5: 3.25*
Maybe it was the fact this was shorter or perhaps that all of it took place in the past but I enjoyed this more than the full novels. It just seemed a little less cheesy overall.
May 27, 2018
RTC <3
March 21, 2015
Wow, this novella is so action-packed, it feels like a full-length book! I seriously love this series now. The magic is fantastic and McHugh clearly knows his legends. Nate is a guy I would love defending me, but I'd hate to have as an enemy. This is a series not to be missed.
Reviewed for Bitten by Books. http://bittenbybooks.com.
Reviewed for Bitten by Books. http://bittenbybooks.com.
January 8, 2014
Thank you kindly to Steve McHugh for sending me this and helping me with my chronic impatience.
In late 15th century England, two young princes are given over by Merlin to the protection of their uncle, King Richard III. They soon vanish from sight, igniting tales of their demise at Richard’s hand and breeding unrest throughout the land.
Nathanial Garrett, also known as Hellequin, is sent to London to decipher fact from rumor and uncovers a plot to replace the king. But his investigation quickly becomes personal when he learns that an old nemesis is involved. He soon finds himself racing against time to rescue the boys before their fate, and the fate of all England, is sealed in blood.
Oh how I love Nate Garrett so I was very much looking forward to this novella, a short but sweet addition to the Hellequin series.
As usual Mr McHugh weaves a magical tale blending myth, legend, history and fantasy with terrific effect. Taking the story of “The Princes in the Tower” as a backdrop and putting Nate Garret bang at the centre of it, this is a beautifully fast paced action driven instalment in Nate’s story.
If you are a fan of this series this will certainly wet the appetite for the next book. If you have yet to dip your toes into Nate’s world this is a gorgeous little taster for you that will have you rushing out to get the rest.
Happy Reading Folks!
In late 15th century England, two young princes are given over by Merlin to the protection of their uncle, King Richard III. They soon vanish from sight, igniting tales of their demise at Richard’s hand and breeding unrest throughout the land.
Nathanial Garrett, also known as Hellequin, is sent to London to decipher fact from rumor and uncovers a plot to replace the king. But his investigation quickly becomes personal when he learns that an old nemesis is involved. He soon finds himself racing against time to rescue the boys before their fate, and the fate of all England, is sealed in blood.
Oh how I love Nate Garrett so I was very much looking forward to this novella, a short but sweet addition to the Hellequin series.
As usual Mr McHugh weaves a magical tale blending myth, legend, history and fantasy with terrific effect. Taking the story of “The Princes in the Tower” as a backdrop and putting Nate Garret bang at the centre of it, this is a beautifully fast paced action driven instalment in Nate’s story.
If you are a fan of this series this will certainly wet the appetite for the next book. If you have yet to dip your toes into Nate’s world this is a gorgeous little taster for you that will have you rushing out to get the rest.
Happy Reading Folks!
September 19, 2020
This is what happens when you read so many books. When I saw Frozen Rage available on Audible, I also saw this one (Infamous Reign) just becoming available on the 15th of September, so I clicked "buy". As I was listening, I started thinking, boy, this sounds familiar. Then it got to the point that I thought, uh oh, I think I've read this before. So, I went to trusty Goodreads to see and darn it, I read this in 2015. It must have just had a new Audible version that was released. So, what did I do? Well, silly me couldn't remember exactly what happened at the end, so I went ahead and listened to the entire thing.
This is a novella that takes place near the very beginning of the series. I mean, REALLY near the beginning. It was interesting to see the relationship between Nate and Tommy - he still calls him Thomas. Also, Merlin and Arthur are the good guys and Mordred is Nate's mortal enemy. Remember those days? Quite a mind ***k.
This kept my attention, and it also took me back. It was actually fun to think about how much has happened in Nate's life, with his friendships, his powers, his enemies....so much craziness. But, I guess that's why I'm hooked on this series. Never a dull moment.
This is a novella that takes place near the very beginning of the series. I mean, REALLY near the beginning. It was interesting to see the relationship between Nate and Tommy - he still calls him Thomas. Also, Merlin and Arthur are the good guys and Mordred is Nate's mortal enemy. Remember those days? Quite a mind ***k.
This kept my attention, and it also took me back. It was actually fun to think about how much has happened in Nate's life, with his friendships, his powers, his enemies....so much craziness. But, I guess that's why I'm hooked on this series. Never a dull moment.
December 11, 2013
If you've already stepped into the world of Hellequin via Crimes Against Magic and Born of Hatred, you'll be completely unsurprised to learn that this novella is awesome. If you have yet to experience the pleasure of reading the first two novels, you're in luck - you can jump right in here and get a feel for the Hellequin world before you (inevitably) read them both!
Steve's writing is a real treat to any fan of fantasy literature, especiwlly fans of Jim Butcher's Dresden Files, but his novels also include historically accurate context, and he has created a believable world for his characters to operate in. The result is a slick, fast-paced read, that will draw you in from the very beginning and leave you desperate for more when you reach the end.
Infamous Reign gave me a much-needed Hellequin hit between finishing Born of Hatred and awaiting the release of the eagerly-anticipated third novel. To my delight, it centres around one of my favourite periods of English history, the short-lived reign of richard III. This alternative version of events does justice to what we now know of Richard III, whilst rooting it firmly in Hellequin's world.
I cannot recommend this novella, and Steve's other books, highly enough. Try them - you won't regret it!
Steve's writing is a real treat to any fan of fantasy literature, especiwlly fans of Jim Butcher's Dresden Files, but his novels also include historically accurate context, and he has created a believable world for his characters to operate in. The result is a slick, fast-paced read, that will draw you in from the very beginning and leave you desperate for more when you reach the end.
Infamous Reign gave me a much-needed Hellequin hit between finishing Born of Hatred and awaiting the release of the eagerly-anticipated third novel. To my delight, it centres around one of my favourite periods of English history, the short-lived reign of richard III. This alternative version of events does justice to what we now know of Richard III, whilst rooting it firmly in Hellequin's world.
I cannot recommend this novella, and Steve's other books, highly enough. Try them - you won't regret it!
July 18, 2021
This is a pleasant short story that I assume sets up the next book in the series, "Prison of Hope."
I enjoyed the first half, but after that it seemed uninspired, even mechanical...doing the necessary things to finish the story, but that's all.
I guess there were also too many unbelievable twists. The fact that his life long enemy always slips out of whatever seemingly sure death is at hand gets annoying. If they really hated each other so much, they'd stop slinging threats and insults and get on with it...fight to the death...one would live and one would die...and the story would move on. Instead they argue like an old married couple, hurl threats, get slight advantages one over the other, but then they always get away.
In fact, I think by the end there's only one or two characters Helliquin doesn't say he's going to kill when in fact he kills none of them...only faceless/nameless soldiers that go down in obligatory, but totally uninspired, battles.
I'm sure by now you get my drift. I love this authors books and look forward to "Prison of Hope." But this short story was all I'd read by him, I would definitely not read another.
I enjoyed the first half, but after that it seemed uninspired, even mechanical...doing the necessary things to finish the story, but that's all.
I guess there were also too many unbelievable twists. The fact that his life long enemy always slips out of whatever seemingly sure death is at hand gets annoying. If they really hated each other so much, they'd stop slinging threats and insults and get on with it...fight to the death...one would live and one would die...and the story would move on. Instead they argue like an old married couple, hurl threats, get slight advantages one over the other, but then they always get away.
In fact, I think by the end there's only one or two characters Helliquin doesn't say he's going to kill when in fact he kills none of them...only faceless/nameless soldiers that go down in obligatory, but totally uninspired, battles.
I'm sure by now you get my drift. I love this authors books and look forward to "Prison of Hope." But this short story was all I'd read by him, I would definitely not read another.
October 2, 2016
Provides Context
Being a novella it is inevitably short, but provides quite a lot of context to remarks made in books later in the novel sequence. Worth a read to flesh out the overarching plot further.
Being a novella it is inevitably short, but provides quite a lot of context to remarks made in books later in the novel sequence. Worth a read to flesh out the overarching plot further.
November 3, 2017
A nice little short. Looking forward to the next book.
January 23, 2025
Симпатична повест, която се развива 1485 година. Или иначе казано между двете сюжетни линии в първата книга от поредицата, седемдесет години след ретроспективната.
Макхю си е написал домашното и ни дава своя версия на изчезването на „Принцовете от кулата“ по времето на краткото управление на Ричард Трети. Фигурите на дъската са самият крал на Англия, двамата му племенници, вторият дук на Бъкингам и за финал Хенри Седми. От измислените участници имаме Алекуин и Томи, Мордред, няколко японски демона полупаяци и един призоваващ.
Тук Нейт още бачка за Мерлин, а Томи вече служи на Авалон. Двамата са изпратени да спасят изчезналите принцове от интригантска игра на Мордред. Има доволно количество изненади и битки, а развръзката си е строго погледнато исторически достоверна. Само някой да каже, че не е имало левитани, кръвна магия и дългата ръка на Мерлин, защитаваща кръвната линия на Артур в образите на Едуард Пети и Ричард от Шрусбъри.
Та, ако искате да разберете как и защо е свършила Войната на розите, това е вашата повест. :D :P
Макхю си е написал домашното и ни дава своя версия на изчезването на „Принцовете от кулата“ по времето на краткото управление на Ричард Трети. Фигурите на дъската са самият крал на Англия, двамата му племенници, вторият дук на Бъкингам и за финал Хенри Седми. От измислените участници имаме Алекуин и Томи, Мордред, няколко японски демона полупаяци и един призоваващ.
Тук Нейт още бачка за Мерлин, а Томи вече служи на Авалон. Двамата са изпратени да спасят изчезналите принцове от интригантска игра на Мордред. Има доволно количество изненади и битки, а развръзката си е строго погледнато исторически достоверна. Само някой да каже, че не е имало левитани, кръвна магия и дългата ръка на Мерлин, защитаваща кръвната линия на Артур в образите на Едуард Пети и Ричард от Шрусбъри.
Та, ако искате да разберете как и защо е свършила Войната на розите, това е вашата повест. :D :P
January 13, 2024
Rating: 3.5 stars
Pages: 87 (Kindle Edition)
I suggest that readers new to the Hellequin Universe start with Crimes Against Magic (at least) prior to reading this short story. Infamous Reign reimagines the reign of King Richard III and the fate of his two royal nephews.
In late 15th century England, two young princes are given over by Merlin to the protection of their uncle, King Richard III. They soon vanish from sight, igniting tales of their demise at Richard’s hand and breeding unrest throughout the land. Nathanial Garrett, also known as Hellequin, is sent to London to decipher fact from rumor and uncovers a plot to replace the king. But his investigation quickly becomes personal when he learns that an old nemesis is involved. He soon finds himself racing against time to rescue the boys before their fate, and the fate of all England, is sealed in blood.
Pages: 87 (Kindle Edition)
I suggest that readers new to the Hellequin Universe start with Crimes Against Magic (at least) prior to reading this short story. Infamous Reign reimagines the reign of King Richard III and the fate of his two royal nephews.
In late 15th century England, two young princes are given over by Merlin to the protection of their uncle, King Richard III. They soon vanish from sight, igniting tales of their demise at Richard’s hand and breeding unrest throughout the land. Nathanial Garrett, also known as Hellequin, is sent to London to decipher fact from rumor and uncovers a plot to replace the king. But his investigation quickly becomes personal when he learns that an old nemesis is involved. He soon finds himself racing against time to rescue the boys before their fate, and the fate of all England, is sealed in blood.
March 17, 2019
Avalon and Magic in OldEngland
A well written novella focused on Old England. Avalon 's involvement with Earth's human governments is fascinating. The magic used by those from Avalon to protect and battle friends, as well as, enemies is intriguing. Being familiar with the series makes it easier to follow and understand this novella. A reader not familiar with the Avalon world would be a bit lost, but might be interested enough to read the other books. I would recommend this novella.
A well written novella focused on Old England. Avalon 's involvement with Earth's human governments is fascinating. The magic used by those from Avalon to protect and battle friends, as well as, enemies is intriguing. Being familiar with the series makes it easier to follow and understand this novella. A reader not familiar with the Avalon world would be a bit lost, but might be interested enough to read the other books. I would recommend this novella.
November 28, 2018
I classified this one as fantasy because it's historical and the pace is different. I really enjoyed seeing more of Nathan back in time with a well-known event. Of course Hellequin puts his own stamp on the events! We meet individuals with new powers and are introduced to characters that will recur in the series. Although it's not available on KU, I highly recommend spending the money to take in this adventure.
November 11, 2019
I love these books so so much, but this one didn't do anything for me.
I know it was only a short novella, but short or not, where was Nate's personality?
I still loved how Mordred got away in the end.
I'll summarise:
Nate: So you ran away again.
Mordred: No, I'm just waiting here for you.
Fight breaks out. They almost kill each other.
Nate gets distracted and Mordred gets stolen by a Leviathan...
Mordred will wait............. he always does.
I know it was only a short novella, but short or not, where was Nate's personality?
I still loved how Mordred got away in the end.
I'll summarise:
Nate: So you ran away again.
Mordred: No, I'm just waiting here for you.
Fight breaks out. They almost kill each other.
Nate gets distracted and Mordred gets stolen by a Leviathan...
Mordred will wait............. he always does.
September 3, 2025
A novella that provides additional backstory to the early feud between Nate and Mordred before the Hellequin Chronicles series takes place but not enough that reading it is necessary. It's entertaining and a quick read so it was worth my time. I like the camaraderie and friendship between Nate (Nathaniel) and Tommy (Thomas) so it was nice to see them working together. Pre-redemption Alan is also introduced.
October 21, 2018
A nice little short story set in the Hellequin world. As usual, a well thought out, intriguing story that introduces more monsters to the world. About the only fault I really had with this story was it didn't give enough time to expanding on what a summoner could do, or really let us see it in action.
I hope the next book is just as good, if not better.
I hope the next book is just as good, if not better.
October 15, 2019
Background to Nate Story
This book, which I didn't read till after reading the whole Hellequin serues, now really make sense. It ties the background with the present in all the books. It gives a bit of background for Thomas "Tommy" Carpenter also and now the whole Hellequin series fully makes sense as a whole! Well worth the $3 for this novella.
This book, which I didn't read till after reading the whole Hellequin serues, now really make sense. It ties the background with the present in all the books. It gives a bit of background for Thomas "Tommy" Carpenter also and now the whole Hellequin series fully makes sense as a whole! Well worth the $3 for this novella.
Read
March 24, 2017It stands up well.
As a novella, it is probably excellent. But for those who are expecting Hellequin writing, don't hold your breathe. But I would surely read 10 more novellas to await the next Hellequin installment.
As a novella, it is probably excellent. But for those who are expecting Hellequin writing, don't hold your breathe. But I would surely read 10 more novellas to await the next Hellequin installment.
Read
March 20, 2018Good read
After reading the whole collection of Hellequin chronicles I very much enjoyed this short story/novella. I really enjoy this author's work and cannot wait to find out what the future for Nate Garret contains!!
After reading the whole collection of Hellequin chronicles I very much enjoyed this short story/novella. I really enjoy this author's work and cannot wait to find out what the future for Nate Garret contains!!
June 14, 2018
Short and sweet.
I chose to give a five star rating because a novella I feel is a smaller version of one of your wonderful full story books and i love all of your Hellequin Chronicles books and I hope you are looking to write some more of those sort of books soon.
I chose to give a five star rating because a novella I feel is a smaller version of one of your wonderful full story books and i love all of your Hellequin Chronicles books and I hope you are looking to write some more of those sort of books soon.
July 27, 2018
This was not what I expected more from a hellequin book . Probably being read out of turn did not help.
May be better to come. The hellion is very lucky against his foes . I must attempt not to go in reverse with the series .
May be better to come. The hellion is very lucky against his foes . I must attempt not to go in reverse with the series .
May 6, 2019
A short novella highlighting one of the many interactions Nate had with Thomas by his side and against Mordred. It was a quick read that gives the reader more insight into the characters and their relationships. I wouldn’t read it without knowing the characters already though.
August 9, 2019
Shirt story but a good tale
Sticking to the original story and the strength of his characters in Nathaniel Garrett and Thomas. Mixing fiction with accurate historical fact makes the story more real.
Sticking to the original story and the strength of his characters in Nathaniel Garrett and Thomas. Mixing fiction with accurate historical fact makes the story more real.
December 17, 2019
im really liking the Hellequin series so far but this one felt like it spent the whole book establishing the back story then rushed through the climax and left me feeling like there were pieces missing at the end
March 24, 2020
Fantastic twist on the fabled Avalon
I love reading the Hellequin Chronicles and this novella is no exception. Nathaniel plays an interesting character all wrapped around the fabled history of Avalon.
I love reading the Hellequin Chronicles and this novella is no exception. Nathaniel plays an interesting character all wrapped around the fabled history of Avalon.
August 6, 2020
Great companion piece to the series
Loved seeing some of the history between Nate and Alan fleshed out. With the main books the animosity seemed a bit extreme, you had to assume they had run afoul of one another before, but this explains part of why it was so personal for Nate.
Loved seeing some of the history between Nate and Alan fleshed out. With the main books the animosity seemed a bit extreme, you had to assume they had run afoul of one another before, but this explains part of why it was so personal for Nate.
June 15, 2021
This was a fun, but brief romp in the world of Hellequin. The story follows Nate as he and Tommy search for the missing princes of England. At less than 100 pages, it was a quick read with some strong action through. A fun break.
August 2, 2022
Hellequin allows infamous Reign
I always enjoy Nate and Thomas working together to right the wrongs of evil doers. Mordred played a part in this story as the bad guy. To my surprise both Nate and Mordred lived after their short battle against each other.
I always enjoy Nate and Thomas working together to right the wrongs of evil doers. Mordred played a part in this story as the bad guy. To my surprise both Nate and Mordred lived after their short battle against each other.
May 29, 2023
A nice addition to the Hellequin Chronicles. I binged the entire series but somehow I missed this story. I enjoyed it. Probably will have to go back and reread the entire series again. Good way to spend time.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews