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The Assembly #3
The Pilgrims of the Damned: A Vampire Thriller: The Assembly, Book 3
A vampire and a journalist team up to stop a witch on a rampage in the third book of this urban fantasy from the bestselling author of the Hellequin Chronicles.
Undead investigator Miles Watson has seen his share of violence, but after his last case left a trail of dead bodies in its wake—some of which had belonged to people he actually liked—he's decided to take a break from policing the tenuous peace between vampires and humankind. Unfortunately, the powers that be aren't keen on him going off the grid, and the new mission they bring to his door isn't the kind that's easily ignored.
It seems a rogue human has his hands on some powerful chaos magic, and he's strayed right into the midst of one of the most dangerous lands in the Maine. It's filled with deranged, hungry desolates and has become a hotbed for political squabbles between various powerful factions. The former US state is exactly where you don't want a newly minted—and very homicidal—witch running amok.
Now Miles will have to venture into seriously dangerous territory to play babysitter to the one witch who can bring monsters to justice. Because if the menace isn't stopped soon, the consequences for humans and vampires alike could be apocalyptic.
Pairing quick-witted dialogue and unparalleled world-building with classic noir and horror elements, The Pilgrims of the Damned is the edge-of-your-seat continuation of a series that will grab you by the throat and refuse to let go until the very last moment.
Undead investigator Miles Watson has seen his share of violence, but after his last case left a trail of dead bodies in its wake—some of which had belonged to people he actually liked—he's decided to take a break from policing the tenuous peace between vampires and humankind. Unfortunately, the powers that be aren't keen on him going off the grid, and the new mission they bring to his door isn't the kind that's easily ignored.
It seems a rogue human has his hands on some powerful chaos magic, and he's strayed right into the midst of one of the most dangerous lands in the Maine. It's filled with deranged, hungry desolates and has become a hotbed for political squabbles between various powerful factions. The former US state is exactly where you don't want a newly minted—and very homicidal—witch running amok.
Now Miles will have to venture into seriously dangerous territory to play babysitter to the one witch who can bring monsters to justice. Because if the menace isn't stopped soon, the consequences for humans and vampires alike could be apocalyptic.
Pairing quick-witted dialogue and unparalleled world-building with classic noir and horror elements, The Pilgrims of the Damned is the edge-of-your-seat continuation of a series that will grab you by the throat and refuse to let go until the very last moment.
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Published September 23, 2025
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About the author
Steve McHugh
36 books1,899 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 37 reviews
November 20, 2025
The Pilgrims of the Damned
by Steve McHugh
I was so happy to get my hands on this book! I loved the first two books so much. This did not disappoint. So much crazy action, magic, creature features, wizard fights, and more. The witty dialogue, dry humor, and unusual characters made the book that much better and unique. Loved it!
by Steve McHugh
I was so happy to get my hands on this book! I loved the first two books so much. This did not disappoint. So much crazy action, magic, creature features, wizard fights, and more. The witty dialogue, dry humor, and unusual characters made the book that much better and unique. Loved it!
October 5, 2025
Another excellent story!
An exciting ride from start to finish ! Steve does it again! Looking forward to more Miles and Church!
Kudos!
An exciting ride from start to finish ! Steve does it again! Looking forward to more Miles and Church!
Kudos!
October 8, 2025
Pilgrims of the Dead is the third book in The Assembly series, and while this one takes a slightly more meandering route, it is still another excellent installment in what has become one of my favourite urban fantasy series. The story takes a while to really show where it is going, and especially in the beginning it did not feel quite as strong as the first two books. But I honestly did not mind. The characters, the humour, the sarcasm, and the action are so good that they easily carry everything along, and once the plot reveals itself it delivers in spades.
The antagonists this time around are a bit over the top, but that is almost a trademark of Steve McHugh by now. Ridiculously overpowered bad guys and crazy, cinematic action sequences are part of the fun. Just take this moment, which combines violence, anger, and morality in one perfect beat:
These are vampires who make choices about what kind of people they want to be, not mindless predators, and I love that mix of grit, gore, and moral conviction.
The world building also deepens in this book, and that was a real highlight for me. Every detail makes the setting feel richer, stranger, and more layered. We meet new characters and reconnect with familiar ones, and both the fresh additions and the returning faces add something valuable.
There is even a touch of romance here, which normally would make me roll my eyes. I usually have no patience for typical romance tropes and can spot them a mile off. But in this case it actually worked for me, because it felt organic. It grew naturally out of friendship and respect, without the drama, angst, or tired friction that often put me off. That is about as rare as a pink unicorn, and I truly enjoyed how it was written.
And then there is **Church**. She remains one of the absolute stars of the series, and in this book she even gets her own chapter. It was an utter delight to see the world briefly through her eyes:
Church is a powerhouse who can rip enemies apart, but she is also funny, loyal, and full of personality. She is every bit as engaging as the human cast, if not more so.
McHugh also continues to excel at writing characters who are believable in their personalities and relationships, even if their supernatural abilities are off the charts. These people are strong, sarcastic, often violent, but they are also vulnerable. They form bonds, they admit when they struggle, and they rely on each other for help. No one has to put on the performance of being the “extra strong man.” Trauma leaves marks, and the characters acknowledge that. This honesty makes them feel three dimensional in a way that many urban fantasy books miss.
It also bears repeating: I want more urban fantasy like this, where women are not ogled, objectified, or shoved into the damsel role. That trope is still far too common, and it is such a relief to read a series that avoids it completely. Here, women are respected, capable, and treated as full characters with agency.
Of course, all of this is wrapped up in McHugh’s trademark combination of action, sarcasm, and banter. It is impressive how he can pull off over the top set pieces without losing sight of the characters at the heart of the story. Take this moment, which shows the kind of brutal, efficient action that punctuates the quieter scenes:
That blend of grit and wry humour runs through the entire book.
*Pilgrims of the Dead* might wander more than its predecessors, but it still brings everything I want from urban fantasy. Larger than life action, sarcasm and banter, compelling characters, deepening world building, and a loyal vampire-dog who steals the show. If you want action that goes big, characters who feel real, and a story that balances blood, humour, and heart, then this series deserves a place on your shelf.
The antagonists this time around are a bit over the top, but that is almost a trademark of Steve McHugh by now. Ridiculously overpowered bad guys and crazy, cinematic action sequences are part of the fun. Just take this moment, which combines violence, anger, and morality in one perfect beat:
Miles brought the machete down onto the neck of the desolate, decapitating it, before tossing the weapon at Jenny’s feet. “We don’t torture for fun.”
“They’re desolate,” Jenny said, picking up the machete. “Who gives a fuck?”
Miles turned back to Jenny, anger in his eyes. “We do nae torture for fun. We kill, we move on, we don’t linger, we don’t inflict needless suffering on those we deem lesser than us. We’re vampires, nae monsters.”
These are vampires who make choices about what kind of people they want to be, not mindless predators, and I love that mix of grit, gore, and moral conviction.
The world building also deepens in this book, and that was a real highlight for me. Every detail makes the setting feel richer, stranger, and more layered. We meet new characters and reconnect with familiar ones, and both the fresh additions and the returning faces add something valuable.
There is even a touch of romance here, which normally would make me roll my eyes. I usually have no patience for typical romance tropes and can spot them a mile off. But in this case it actually worked for me, because it felt organic. It grew naturally out of friendship and respect, without the drama, angst, or tired friction that often put me off. That is about as rare as a pink unicorn, and I truly enjoyed how it was written.
And then there is **Church**. She remains one of the absolute stars of the series, and in this book she even gets her own chapter. It was an utter delight to see the world briefly through her eyes:
She wanted them to get complacent. She wanted to see the look on their face when she grabbed them by the throat and squeezed. Dog revenge was the best revenge.
Church is a powerhouse who can rip enemies apart, but she is also funny, loyal, and full of personality. She is every bit as engaging as the human cast, if not more so.
McHugh also continues to excel at writing characters who are believable in their personalities and relationships, even if their supernatural abilities are off the charts. These people are strong, sarcastic, often violent, but they are also vulnerable. They form bonds, they admit when they struggle, and they rely on each other for help. No one has to put on the performance of being the “extra strong man.” Trauma leaves marks, and the characters acknowledge that. This honesty makes them feel three dimensional in a way that many urban fantasy books miss.
It also bears repeating: I want more urban fantasy like this, where women are not ogled, objectified, or shoved into the damsel role. That trope is still far too common, and it is such a relief to read a series that avoids it completely. Here, women are respected, capable, and treated as full characters with agency.
Of course, all of this is wrapped up in McHugh’s trademark combination of action, sarcasm, and banter. It is impressive how he can pull off over the top set pieces without losing sight of the characters at the heart of the story. Take this moment, which shows the kind of brutal, efficient action that punctuates the quieter scenes:
Miles walked back toward the unconscious werewolf, who instead of hitting the trees had missed them and smashed into what remained of the road in front of the Toyota, making quite the mess in the process. Miles killed him in the same way he had the first, tossing the werewolf’s head into a nearby bush. He was very much done with playing nice.
That blend of grit and wry humour runs through the entire book.
*Pilgrims of the Dead* might wander more than its predecessors, but it still brings everything I want from urban fantasy. Larger than life action, sarcasm and banter, compelling characters, deepening world building, and a loyal vampire-dog who steals the show. If you want action that goes big, characters who feel real, and a story that balances blood, humour, and heart, then this series deserves a place on your shelf.
September 30, 2025
Best book of The Assembly series so far!
Miles is assigned as a bodyguard for a reporter who happens to be a witch on a mission to Maine. Years ago something happened in Maine that left it the home for many Desolate (basically feral vampires) and only pockets of civilization populated by humans and a small number of vampires.
Supposed to be an easy mission, but no one can say what they might find there. Obviously there is trouble once they arrive or it wouldn't be much of a book.
Vampires, witches, werewolves and an ancient vampire predecessor make for very interesting reading.
Miles is assigned as a bodyguard for a reporter who happens to be a witch on a mission to Maine. Years ago something happened in Maine that left it the home for many Desolate (basically feral vampires) and only pockets of civilization populated by humans and a small number of vampires.
Supposed to be an easy mission, but no one can say what they might find there. Obviously there is trouble once they arrive or it wouldn't be much of a book.
Vampires, witches, werewolves and an ancient vampire predecessor make for very interesting reading.
October 16, 2025
4.75 Stars 🌟
This was the third book in this series and one that I very much enjoyed.
We are back with Arbiter Miles Watson, a powerful Vampire who is taking some time off after his last crazy case when the story begins. He is asked to accompany our new FMC Amelia Roberts as she embarks on a quest/investigation/story. She is a journalist and will be writing a story, basically using her "investigation" as a cover.
One of her best friends, a Chaos Witch, was murdered for her grimoire and Amelia has decided that she is going to find the witch responsible and bring him to justice. It just so happens that the journey is taking them into the former state of Maine which has been overrun with deranged, hungry desolates and not a safe place.
And so begins the adventure.
Miles and Amelia (and Church - his vampire dog) find themselves in the middle of events that neither of them were expecting. There are crazy cult like vampires, werewolves, giant desolates and a sleeping vampire (almost) god that is close to waking. Yep, crazy times.
There is non stop action and drama from the very beginning and things do not let up until the very last page. As usual, it is so wonderful to see the relationship between Miles and Church and we even get a brief POV from Church.
This series is only getting better with each book and while this may be the last book in the series - I hope that it is not.
This was the third book in this series and one that I very much enjoyed.
We are back with Arbiter Miles Watson, a powerful Vampire who is taking some time off after his last crazy case when the story begins. He is asked to accompany our new FMC Amelia Roberts as she embarks on a quest/investigation/story. She is a journalist and will be writing a story, basically using her "investigation" as a cover.
One of her best friends, a Chaos Witch, was murdered for her grimoire and Amelia has decided that she is going to find the witch responsible and bring him to justice. It just so happens that the journey is taking them into the former state of Maine which has been overrun with deranged, hungry desolates and not a safe place.
And so begins the adventure.
Miles and Amelia (and Church - his vampire dog) find themselves in the middle of events that neither of them were expecting. There are crazy cult like vampires, werewolves, giant desolates and a sleeping vampire (almost) god that is close to waking. Yep, crazy times.
There is non stop action and drama from the very beginning and things do not let up until the very last page. As usual, it is so wonderful to see the relationship between Miles and Church and we even get a brief POV from Church.
This series is only getting better with each book and while this may be the last book in the series - I hope that it is not.
September 30, 2025
Always delivers!
I love every book Steve McHugh writes. While Hellequin will likely always be my favorite, Miles is a great character. I love the eternal struggle between good and evil and the gray areas that could be either. Great characters and storyline.
I love every book Steve McHugh writes. While Hellequin will likely always be my favorite, Miles is a great character. I love the eternal struggle between good and evil and the gray areas that could be either. Great characters and storyline.
September 28, 2025
If you like your heroes ultra competent and willing to kick all kinds of ass to win the day then The Assembly books are for you. Miles, a sort of vampire super cop, just wants a quiet life with his best dog friend, Church. Unfortunately there are things that need doing and throats that need ripping out so peace will have to wait.
A chapter focusing on Church's POV was a brilliantly welcome addition. More of that please.
A chapter focusing on Church's POV was a brilliantly welcome addition. More of that please.
September 28, 2025
Loved the book
As usual Steve wrote a gripping story, I liked all the characters and I couldn't stop reading the book. Miles and Church are some of my favourite characters that Steve has written and I definitely can recommend the whole series.
As usual Steve wrote a gripping story, I liked all the characters and I couldn't stop reading the book. Miles and Church are some of my favourite characters that Steve has written and I definitely can recommend the whole series.
October 21, 2025
Rating: 4 stars
This is the 3rd book in The Assembly series. I suggest new readers start the series from the first book (Those Who Dwell in Darkness: A Vampire Thriller). Miles (the MC) powers up as the story progresses. I've become a fan of Mile's canine partner (Church). Church has her own side story (First Hunt) that I'm going to read next.
SUMMARY: Undead investigator Miles Watson has seen his share of violence, but after his last case left a trail of dead bodies in its wake—some of which had belonged to people he actually liked—he’s decided to take a break from policing the tenuous peace between vampires and humankind. Unfortunately, the powers that be aren’t keen on him going off the grid, and the new mission they bring to his door isn’t the kind that’s easily ignored.
It seems a rogue human has his hands on some powerful chaos magic, and he’s strayed right into the midst of one of the most dangerous lands in the world: Maine. It’s filled with deranged, hungry desolates and has become a hotbed for political squabbles between various powerful factions. The former US state is exactly where you don’t want a newly minted —and very homicidal— witch running amok. Now Miles will have to venture into seriously dangerous territory to play babysitter to the one witch who can bring monsters to justice. Because if the menace isn’t stopped soon, the consequences for humans and vampires alike could be apocalyptic.
This is the 3rd book in The Assembly series. I suggest new readers start the series from the first book (Those Who Dwell in Darkness: A Vampire Thriller). Miles (the MC) powers up as the story progresses. I've become a fan of Mile's canine partner (Church). Church has her own side story (First Hunt) that I'm going to read next.
SUMMARY: Undead investigator Miles Watson has seen his share of violence, but after his last case left a trail of dead bodies in its wake—some of which had belonged to people he actually liked—he’s decided to take a break from policing the tenuous peace between vampires and humankind. Unfortunately, the powers that be aren’t keen on him going off the grid, and the new mission they bring to his door isn’t the kind that’s easily ignored.
It seems a rogue human has his hands on some powerful chaos magic, and he’s strayed right into the midst of one of the most dangerous lands in the world: Maine. It’s filled with deranged, hungry desolates and has become a hotbed for political squabbles between various powerful factions. The former US state is exactly where you don’t want a newly minted —and very homicidal— witch running amok. Now Miles will have to venture into seriously dangerous territory to play babysitter to the one witch who can bring monsters to justice. Because if the menace isn’t stopped soon, the consequences for humans and vampires alike could be apocalyptic.
October 3, 2025
I never really know what to say about Steve's books. They are the urban fantasy version of Die Hard, bad language and gratuitous violence. They will never win the Nobel prize for literature but they should win a prize for being books that people want to read. This one is no exception. Mil
e's and Church doing what they do best. I dread to think what will happen if anyone really hurts Church, John Wick would have nothing on Miles...
Go on, buy it and read it. You know you want to.
e's and Church doing what they do best. I dread to think what will happen if anyone really hurts Church, John Wick would have nothing on Miles...
Go on, buy it and read it. You know you want to.
October 3, 2025
Fantastic read
Based on the excellence of how the two previous books, and Steve's little hints of how his writing it was progressing, I expected this one to be amazing. I was not disappointed. I even tried my best to draw out my reading of this book to make the enjoyment last. I failed in the last ten chapters, and couldn't stop reading. I loved it so much I'm going to reread via the audio. : ))
Based on the excellence of how the two previous books, and Steve's little hints of how his writing it was progressing, I expected this one to be amazing. I was not disappointed. I even tried my best to draw out my reading of this book to make the enjoyment last. I failed in the last ten chapters, and couldn't stop reading. I loved it so much I'm going to reread via the audio. : ))
December 29, 2025
Some believe there is nothing more than power
Miles and Church were on vacation. Until a request for help with a Chaos Witch turned into much worse. Deep into Maine they hunt the witch who has teamed with House Idolator. Their goal is to bring back an original Dusk, one if the first vampires. Alk of those involve in the awakening are self motivated, caring nothing for anyone or anything. Luckily Miles has friends from different groups who step up.
Miles and Church were on vacation. Until a request for help with a Chaos Witch turned into much worse. Deep into Maine they hunt the witch who has teamed with House Idolator. Their goal is to bring back an original Dusk, one if the first vampires. Alk of those involve in the awakening are self motivated, caring nothing for anyone or anything. Luckily Miles has friends from different groups who step up.
October 11, 2025
Another masterpiece
There are few authors as consistent as Steve Mchugh. I've enjoyed his books since I first found "crimes against magic". His books are still created, imaginative and carry the reader on a magic carpet into the world Steve created. If you haven't read him before you should start now. This book is excellent.
There are few authors as consistent as Steve Mchugh. I've enjoyed his books since I first found "crimes against magic". His books are still created, imaginative and carry the reader on a magic carpet into the world Steve created. If you haven't read him before you should start now. This book is excellent.
October 17, 2025
Thank you
This series, A Vampire Thriller, is now a favorite series for me. After the third one was released, I went back to read the first two. This author has become another of my repeat authors,along with Laurell K Hamilton, Patricia Briggs, and Faith Hunter. I just wanted to thank the author, Steve McHugh for writing this wonderful adventure. Where you lead,I will follow.
This series, A Vampire Thriller, is now a favorite series for me. After the third one was released, I went back to read the first two. This author has become another of my repeat authors,along with Laurell K Hamilton, Patricia Briggs, and Faith Hunter. I just wanted to thank the author, Steve McHugh for writing this wonderful adventure. Where you lead,I will follow.
December 3, 2025
Love Miles and Church
One of the best vampire series yet. You have to keep going with this series like with Nate. We need to know what happened to the other dusk and who was talking to Miles in his dreams. We need to see what happens with Miles and Amelia! So much left that needs to be taken care of!
One of the best vampire series yet. You have to keep going with this series like with Nate. We need to know what happened to the other dusk and who was talking to Miles in his dreams. We need to see what happens with Miles and Amelia! So much left that needs to be taken care of!
September 26, 2025
Unputdownable!
Make sure you have time to read before you start, because it's very hard to put down! Full of action and compelling characters who are just plain fun to read!
Great conclusion to Miles's story, and Church is always the bestest girl.
Make sure you have time to read before you start, because it's very hard to put down! Full of action and compelling characters who are just plain fun to read!
Great conclusion to Miles's story, and Church is always the bestest girl.
September 28, 2025
Great Read
O would definately recommend this book to people who want to read a great vampire fantasy without most of being just another love story. It has alot of great twists and action.
O would definately recommend this book to people who want to read a great vampire fantasy without most of being just another love story. It has alot of great twists and action.
October 2, 2025
Miles and Church kick ass
I truly love this series. And i didn't think anything would top Hellequin. Steve just makes the characters come to life, and you feel like you are friends with them. It's a great storyline, and hopefully, there will be many more to come.
I truly love this series. And i didn't think anything would top Hellequin. Steve just makes the characters come to life, and you feel like you are friends with them. It's a great storyline, and hopefully, there will be many more to come.
October 6, 2025
He did it again!
I didn't realize how much I like this series until this book came out and I did a quick reread. That being said, this might be the best one yet!!!! I wish there a little more at the end though, no spoilers! I just want more story!!!! I can't wait for the next one.
I didn't realize how much I like this series until this book came out and I did a quick reread. That being said, this might be the best one yet!!!! I wish there a little more at the end though, no spoilers! I just want more story!!!! I can't wait for the next one.
October 12, 2025
I REALLY hope for Another!
Excellent story! Full and complex and entertaining! Give Un another, plz! Love the plot, as so much happens in each book. I feel Mikes changing with each new story, and Drest…lots to do there.
Excellent story! Full and complex and entertaining! Give Un another, plz! Love the plot, as so much happens in each book. I feel Mikes changing with each new story, and Drest…lots to do there.
October 22, 2025
Another amazing book
This series just gets better and better!! An amazing world with in depth characters and a storyline that make you feel like you're there. I can't wait for the next book to come out... PLEASE don't make me wait too long for the next one.....
This series just gets better and better!! An amazing world with in depth characters and a storyline that make you feel like you're there. I can't wait for the next book to come out... PLEASE don't make me wait too long for the next one.....
October 22, 2025
Not standard vampires
A fierce vampire with convictions and his powerful Doberman companion again team up to fight back against horrors you have to read about. It you like a gory, alternate modern world complete with supernatural villains, this is a great book and series.
A fierce vampire with convictions and his powerful Doberman companion again team up to fight back against horrors you have to read about. It you like a gory, alternate modern world complete with supernatural villains, this is a great book and series.
November 5, 2025
While I really enjoyed the book and keenly awaited another. It felt a little like the ending could have been a bit more spaced out. With a lot of space for the middle of the story and not so much for the beginning or end.
December 22, 2025
This was great if you were a fan of the previous books, but
September 24, 2025
still action packed
Still one of my favorite fantasy authors, although just slotting him in as fantasy doesn’t really do it justice either. He’s got everything I want in a novel.
Still one of my favorite fantasy authors, although just slotting him in as fantasy doesn’t really do it justice either. He’s got everything I want in a novel.
September 25, 2025
Fantastic
Another fantastic book. The series is great and I really enjoyed Church's parts in the book. Can't wait for the next one.
Another fantastic book. The series is great and I really enjoyed Church's parts in the book. Can't wait for the next one.
September 26, 2025
Another Great Offering from Steve Mchugh
No spoilers. It's just a fun fast paced read and you should just sit your arse down and read it.
No spoilers. It's just a fun fast paced read and you should just sit your arse down and read it.
September 30, 2025
Very good book
This is a fine fantasy adventure novel. It is well written and edited. I especially like Church the dog. I anxiously await the author's next book.
This is a fine fantasy adventure novel. It is well written and edited. I especially like Church the dog. I anxiously await the author's next book.
October 2, 2025
More of the same
If you liked the first two the action continues. More world view expansion and depth in more than one sense.
If you liked the first two the action continues. More world view expansion and depth in more than one sense.
October 10, 2025
Great 3rd in the Series
Each one of the series gets better and better and that’s saying something since all are so good. Can’t wait for the 4th. Keep up the great work.
Each one of the series gets better and better and that’s saying something since all are so good. Can’t wait for the 4th. Keep up the great work.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews