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The Assembly #2

A Deliberate Act of Violence: A Vampire Thriller

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An undead investigator hunts a recently turned vampire with a lust for violence in this dark urban fantasy from the author of the Riftborn series.

The peace between humans and vampires balances on a knife’s edge, ready to descend into murderous chaos at any moment. It’s up to the Assembly to discreetly clean up conflicts and track down criminals before bloodshed becomes a cause for concern. That’s where Miles Watson comes in. As an Arbiter, he has free reign to find, adjudicate against, and punish perpetrators. And he operates just far enough outside the law to make sure those who break it get what’s coming to them.

But even with unlimited scope and centuries of experience, Miles’s latest case has his back against the wall. A series of murders are sweeping through the streets of London, and all evidence points toward a new, young vampire as the perpetrator. The only the vampire in question is also the son of a very powerful businessman backed by the Assembly.

Now Miles must navigate not only the Assembly’s usual red tape but also a twisted web of politics, underground crime, and dangerous alliances to stop the villain before the body count gets too high—or the powers that be catch wind of what he’s up to.

Bestselling author Steve McHugh blends the best of horror with classic detective noir in this unforgettable continuation of the blood-curdling adventure that began with Those Who Dwell in Darkness.

329 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 25, 2025

174 people are currently reading
112 people want to read

About the author

Steve McHugh

35 books1,901 followers
Steve 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

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198 (27%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
Profile Image for Julia Sarene.
1,685 reviews203 followers
March 27, 2025
A Deliberate Act of Violence by Steve McHugh 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, and it’s not 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!) The characters build strong bonds with colleagues, family, and friends. Instead of the toxic “alpha male” tropes, the characters work together, respect one another, and are unafraid to ask for help when needed. 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. 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.
Profile Image for Kristine.
3,404 reviews52 followers
April 1, 2025
4.5 Stars 🌟

As usual, I never know what to expect when I pick up a Steve McHugh book, I just know that I am going to be entertained. This book was no exception. For whatever reason, I had a hard time remembering the first book in this series, so I just decided to jump right into the second book. Honestly, I think it would be absolutely fine to read as a stand alone because I had no issues with feeling lost or thoughts of confusion - I was just along for the ride.

In this book, we are focused on Miles Watson, who is a vampire and who is an "Arbitor" for the Assembly. Apparently, in this world, vampires are out and co-exist along with the humans fairly peacefully. There is a governing group called the Assembly - who handles vampire crimes and issues in order to try to keep the peace with the humans.

So Miles. He is an extremely funny and sarcastic MMC with a very dry wit and apparently has the ability to back up what he dishes out. He has a side kick - an absolutely wonderful dog/vampire named Church. She is amazingly intelligent and loyal to a fault, and scarily effective. There were some scientists working with combining vampire DNA with canine DNA and the result was Church and one other litter mate. Miles' love of her and his protectiveness of her takes his character up a level. The two of them together are awesome.

So- the case. Miles starts investigating a couple of cases that do not seem to be related at first and then all of a sudden, it becomes apparent that there is more going on than meets the eye. What started as several separate cases, end up all being scarily related with some pretty bad possible outcomes. Before you know it, Miles, Church and team are desperately trying to stop some really bad people/vampires from releasing some crazed vampires into London.

This story was more like a crime or detective storyline. Miles is involved and then gathers additional help from friends that he trusts as it becomes apparent that the scope of the crimes is much bigger than first thought. It was fun to follow the clues. I loved the comradery between friends, the craziness of the plot and in the end, the build to the climax.

All in all, another great series - but really, did I ever doubt it? Nope.
Profile Image for Todd.
2,226 reviews8 followers
April 11, 2025
The second book in Steve Mchugh's Assembly series is a bloody fun ride, emphasis on bloody.

Miles is drawn in to the events that will fill the book simply by investigating a small group who are robbing vampire jewelers. They are using vampire killing weapons they shouldn't have access to.

One clue leads to another, which leads to several skirmishes, all while members of the Umbra group (fallout from events in the first book) are out to get revenge on Miles.

As expected Church the dog steals the show.
Profile Image for Orlando Sanchez.
Author 104 books589 followers
May 26, 2025
Excellent addition!

Steve does it again! Fast paced action and tight storytelling! Looking forward to book 3! Kudos on the new addition.
16 reviews
March 29, 2025
Delivered what it promised!

So. Where to start? Vampires, action, intrugue, justice, a couple of twists and a most awesome sidekick. Church. (Who's a good girl?!?).

Steve (can I call you Steve?), always serves up well written stories with complicated, imperfect heroes.

Read it, would recommend it!
Profile Image for John.
31 reviews
April 27, 2025
These books have no business being as good as they are. The premise of this series sounds a bit cheeseball, admittedly, but the characters and action always seem to find the sweetspot between not taking themselves too seriously and being too hammy (is that even a word?). I'll be in low-key anticipation of the final book in the series, and will immediately devour it when it arrives (see what I did there?....vampire book...."devour"....I do entertain myself so)......

Easy 4/5 stars
84 reviews4 followers
April 6, 2025
I just finished reading "A Deliberate Act of Violence" by Steve McHugh, and wow, what a ride! I devoured the entire book in just 24 hours — it was THAT gripping. Steve McHugh has officially solidified himself as one of my favourite authors. His pacing is intense from start to finish, with each chapter building up suspense and action in a way that made it nearly impossible to put down.

The story itself is absolutely outstanding. You get so invested in the characters, especially the “good guys.” Watching them grow and develop through the twists and turns is such a rewarding experience. McHugh knows how to write characters you care about, and you really feel the stakes as they fight to overcome increasingly dangerous odds.

One of the things that really stood out to me was how much more fleshed out the power systems and lore are in this book. McHugh really dives deep into the world-building, making the magic and powers feel more intricate and evolving. It's a joy to see how the lore unfolds and adds layers to the overall narrative.

In short, *A Deliberate Act of Violence* is a must-read for anyone who loves intense, character-driven fantasy with a deep and evolving world. If you haven’t checked out Steve McHugh yet, this book is the perfect introduction. Can't wait for more!
Profile Image for L.G..
1,036 reviews20 followers
April 7, 2025
Rating: 4 stars

Steve McHugh has done it again! This book is the second in a new series (The Assembly) and is currently available in KU. One of the best characters in this story (IMO) is a part-vampire dog named Church. The next book in this series (The Pilgrims of the Damned) is listed but I don't see a publication date. I'm looking forward to spending more time with Miles and Church!

SUMMARY: 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. Miles’s latest case has his back against the wall. A series of murders are sweeping through the streets of London, and all evidence points toward a new, young vampire as the perpetrator. The only problem: the vampire in question is also the son of a very powerful businessman backed by the Assembly. Now Miles must navigate not only the Assembly’s usual red tape but also a twisted web of politics, underground crime, and dangerous alliances to stop the villain before the body count gets too high—or the powers that be catch wind of what he’s up to.
12 reviews
November 1, 2025
This is the second book I've read by this author and I have to say I am hooked. I love the characters and the storyline. The MC is well written and easy to love. Hard not to love a man who loves and protects his dog and considers her his best friend, right?
The MC is a vampire and an Arbiter, basically an investigator, kinda like an FBI agent for a human government, only he works alone and rarely reports to anyone until he finishes what he is investigating. Very few question his opinion or his methods of dealing with it. Many fear him. However he has morals and he does save many lives.
He often finds himself in deep and does sometimes call in others to help when he feels it's needed.
The story is packed with action and as we proceed we learn more about him, his past , the structure of the vampire government and how it came to be. We also learn more about those he considers family and the few he calls friends.
The author is an incredible worldbuilder and story teller and it's easy to lose yourself in his books. I can't wait for the next adventure.
6 reviews
April 19, 2025
Intricately well written descriptions of characters

The way McHugh describes characters is brilliant, you are able to get inside of their heads and think as them. I loved the London, English and Scottish locations described as a Brit, using correct language. Many other writers from USA do not use British terminology when describing British scenes and even some other authors not from USA, write using American descriptions to please the potential audience, but McHugh is authentic. Good well thought out plots running alongside with some twists. Hope there will be another in the series.

474 reviews4 followers
December 10, 2025
Don't hurt the dog and everything will be OK. Not really, but it could be worse.

Miles has a target on his back, just like always. The difference falls to who is after him. It turns out there are traitors in places higher up. And all those involved are after only money and power. Not a surprise there but Miles is like the Energizer Bunny, takes a licking, keeps on ticking. I'm sure a few of his enemies have thought that movie line, "Why won't you just....". But this time the people they killed, the interrupted vacation, and then someone tried to hurt Church, they sealed their own fate.
2,390 reviews
May 9, 2025
Can anymore action be stuffed into one book? It was just the right amount of action as Miles and Church and a few others went after all kinds of bad apples. Miles did it with amazing moves often being damaged/hurt/bloodied but he does not stop until the job is done. I get quite a kick out of Mr. McHugh's slant on vampires and plan to read whatever he writes with Miles and Church as the main characters. Actually, I plan to read Mr. McHugh's back list of books. Even though I wince at some of the grammar issues, I push them aside as I the read is terrific.
Profile Image for Bookish Satty.
953 reviews32 followers
April 11, 2025
Wow. I just loved this story so much as well as the characters. Church and Miles were an awesome pair and I loved the characters of Rosa and Charlotte too. The secondary characters were well fleshed out. The plot was quite engaging and the action scenes were written beautifully. Definitely recommend this fast paced, action packed Vampire story where Vampires are the creatures that you fear and not make heart eyes to.
275 reviews1 follower
April 18, 2025
dang this guy’s good!

I read all of McHugh’s other books with Greek and Norse Gods and terrific mythology and was mesmerized do I thought I’d try his vampire stories and OMG, didn’t think it was possible for me to love a character more than Nate but Miles might be my new favorite hardass! On to the next installment and hoping Mr. McHugh can keep up with my voracious appetite for his storytelling.
51 reviews
April 3, 2025
One of the best writers around

When I finish a book, there are 3 questions. Did I finish it and wish it wasn't done? Yes. Do I eagerly look for the next in the series. Yes again.. do I look for anything else the author has written? Yes again. Although sadly I've read everything this author has written... Several times. I suggest you do the same. You won't regret it.
Profile Image for John E.
696 reviews2 followers
April 10, 2025
A different vampire society

I an will not sure about this series but like everything McHugh writes, the supernatural political structure is crazily good. The MC is an vampires anti-hero and darn good at his job. maybe Silk the series A vampire and his dog? Fans of bloody conflicts will enjoy this newest story.
4 reviews
June 3, 2025
Another Corker by Steve McHugh!

Once again, Steve McHugh has written a book that captures the attention from page one and doesn’t let go. Humor, horror and fantastic characters leave us begging for more. Read this - you won’t be sorry! Looking forward to book three in the series.
Profile Image for Will Dorey.
74 reviews2 followers
August 6, 2025
If you have ever read an action thriller and thought to yourself, this would be better if it contained a brooding, centuries old Scottish vampire and his genetically enhanced Doberman - and who hasn't - then this is the book for you. Easy to read with an engaging plot and action scenes to make Jason Bourne stop and ask for a breather. I can't speak highly enough of this book.
102 reviews1 follower
March 29, 2025
If you love the world created in the first book of the series you’ll love this. Ultra violent and humorous is always a difficult balance but Steve sails those waters seamlessly, new characters new baddies impossible to put down. Look forward to the next.
54 reviews3 followers
April 3, 2025
Solid action

I hesitate to describe any of the book - in fact, I won't. I wouldn't want to spoil the read for anyone. Suffice it to say Mr McHugh has hit it out of the park again. This series is every bit as good as the Helliquin Chronicles (IMO). Highly recommend.
Profile Image for Andy Venn.
54 reviews1 follower
April 5, 2025
Another book of the type I've come to expect from Steve. Easy to read, packed with action and just a damned good story. He seems to me to the modern Louis L'Amour or Robert E Howard, chucking out good books one after the other.
23 reviews
April 14, 2025
Wonderful

I've come to the realization that if a book has two main characters and one is a Dog the books are going to Awesome. Miles and church are a great example of this fact . hopefully this trend continues!!!!
29 reviews
April 19, 2025
Wow

I don't know what I was expecting when I picked up this book, but it was brilliant! Steve McHugh is one of my favorite writers already and this might be his best book to date!!!!
4 reviews
April 20, 2025
Gripping and page turner.

Really great book, very interesting.couldn't put it down.can't wait to read the next book about miles and church..just as brilliant as the hellium chronicles.
341 reviews2 followers
June 1, 2025
Great Vampire Story

I loved Steve's Hellequin novels, and naturally when I seen a Vampire series, I had to read them. Awesome take on Vampires too, especially how they are integrated into human society. Keep Writing !!
2 reviews
October 25, 2025
Quality as usual

Steve McHugh is as consistent as ever. A good storyteller laced with wit and energy. The characters are developing nicely and hopefully there will be a lot more books in this series.
477 reviews1 follower
March 26, 2025
This was another amazing story with Miles and his dog Church. They get into some interesting places that could get them "dead". But then that's part of his job.
27 reviews1 follower
March 30, 2025
Hard to Put Down

McHugh has the gift of making one slow down and enjoy. Reading this series is like watching a movie. I'm looking foreword to meeting Church's sibling.
John R
3 reviews
March 30, 2025
brilliant again.

Steve has done it again. Great read. Fast paced, action packed, just the right amount of humour thrown in. Thoroughly recommended.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews

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