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The Avalon Chronicles #2
A Flicker of Steel
Avalon stands revealed, but the war is far from over. For Layla Cassidy, it has only just begun.
Thrust into a new world full of magic and monsters, Layla has finally come to terms with her supernatural powers—and left her old life behind. But her enemies are relentless.
Sixteen months after her life changed forever, Layla and her team are besieged during a rescue attempt gone awry and must fight their way through to freedom. It turns out that Avalon has only grown since their last encounter, adding fresh villains to its horde. Meanwhile, revelations abound as Layla confronts twists and betrayals in her own life, with each new detail adding to the shadow that looms over her.
As Layla fights against the forces of evil, her powers begin to increase—and she discovers more about the darkness that lies in her past. As this same darkness threatens her future, will she be ready to fight for everything she holds dear?
Thrust into a new world full of magic and monsters, Layla has finally come to terms with her supernatural powers—and left her old life behind. But her enemies are relentless.
Sixteen months after her life changed forever, Layla and her team are besieged during a rescue attempt gone awry and must fight their way through to freedom. It turns out that Avalon has only grown since their last encounter, adding fresh villains to its horde. Meanwhile, revelations abound as Layla confronts twists and betrayals in her own life, with each new detail adding to the shadow that looms over her.
As Layla fights against the forces of evil, her powers begin to increase—and she discovers more about the darkness that lies in her past. As this same darkness threatens her future, will she be ready to fight for everything she holds dear?
367 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 3, 2018
1003 people are currently reading
1282 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 174 reviews
June 6, 2018
This book epitomises the worst of McHugh’s writing style, being nothing more than a massive list of characters having short, info dumping conversations between battle set pieces. As the Hellequin series progressed, the sheer number of characters shoehorned in wiped out any real character depth or development, save the occasional moments for Mordred or Nate. The first in the Avalon Chronicles, A Glimmer of Hope, offered just that, focusing largely on one main character, Layla Cassidy, and her discovery of the shadowy, supernatural world only now noticed by normals. While the author managed to avoid throwing in every goddamn character he could think of in that offering, this one went right back to doing so. People arrive, have a few lines, say how awful shit is, maybe throw a few punches, leave. And, as much as i’ve loved seeing what comes next, it’s becoming too tiresome. On top of all that, the plot seems to be nothing more than escape, fight, escape, fight, oh no this person is bad really, fight, talk about ‘powers’, oh no some more, the end. Layla has had sixteen months to turn into an attitudey badass (read: arsehole) who nobody seems to be able to do without- but come on people, she’s not even as good as Magneto and nowhere near as interesting. I can’t even evaluate it more than this, there’s not enough meat to chew.
ARC via Netgalley
ARC via Netgalley
July 10, 2018
So here we are again with Steve McHugh and his Avalon Chronicles, this time we have the second book, A Flicker Of Steel and the continuations of Layla Cassidy's story.
I must say that while I enjoyed this book I did have a few issues with it and the main thing thing was all the new characters that I felt were being thrown at me at a rate of knots. I understand that this series is a spin off from McHugh's previous series and that many of the characters have been featured in that series so would be familiar to those who have read them but I haven't so all these characters were new to me and there were an awful lot of them to digest and get to know, though there were so many there wasn't much of a chance to get to know them at all. The other issue I had was the time jump from the previous book as when we hit this book we've jumped a year and suddenly Layla has come to grips with her powers and is a confident fighter which is pretty much the opposite of where we left her last time. I felt like while reading this book that I had missed something, like there should've been a book in between this one and the last.
Don't get me wrong though the book was still enjoyable despite this and it was a thrilling and fun ride to catch up with the gang and their ongoing fight against Avalon. I will still be reading book three but to those wanting to read this series I might now suggest that it would probably be beneficial to read the other series first, I don't know though.
I must say that while I enjoyed this book I did have a few issues with it and the main thing thing was all the new characters that I felt were being thrown at me at a rate of knots. I understand that this series is a spin off from McHugh's previous series and that many of the characters have been featured in that series so would be familiar to those who have read them but I haven't so all these characters were new to me and there were an awful lot of them to digest and get to know, though there were so many there wasn't much of a chance to get to know them at all. The other issue I had was the time jump from the previous book as when we hit this book we've jumped a year and suddenly Layla has come to grips with her powers and is a confident fighter which is pretty much the opposite of where we left her last time. I felt like while reading this book that I had missed something, like there should've been a book in between this one and the last.
Don't get me wrong though the book was still enjoyable despite this and it was a thrilling and fun ride to catch up with the gang and their ongoing fight against Avalon. I will still be reading book three but to those wanting to read this series I might now suggest that it would probably be beneficial to read the other series first, I don't know though.
September 23, 2018
Wow, these books are getting better and better! Cannot wait for Thunder of War!!
Review will follow!
Review will follow!
September 27, 2018
It was a nice change of pace reading a paranormal book. It's been awhile since I've read one. Sorcerers, werebears, umbra, gods and other species alongside humans.
I didn't read the previous book in this series but it was easy to follow the storyline. I just wish it was more stimulating. While i thought it was good I really wanted closer to great.
Thanks to NetGalley for providing me a copy to honestly review.
I didn't read the previous book in this series but it was easy to follow the storyline. I just wish it was more stimulating. While i thought it was good I really wanted closer to great.
Thanks to NetGalley for providing me a copy to honestly review.
June 22, 2018
3.5 stars
Hmmm, I admit I am a little unsatisfied with this second installment of McHugh's The Avalon Chronicles series.
On the one hand, the fast-paced action scenes are good. I loved how McHugh developed the umbra's various powers ... it was like bunch of X-Men characters descending from the comics.
On the other hand, the way the story flow felt repetitive, and lack of characters' development and emotion. I mean, Layla discovered that but I didn't feel any troubled emotion from her.
I like action but I also want this to be more. In fact, the scenes I loved the most from this book was when Layla and her father, Caleb, were meeting and talking. It was definitely a COMPLICATED relationship, nonetheless I thought it was a good way to 'crack' Layla, so to speak. I look forward to more of scenes like this.
PS: No Nate at all in this book, and if the first book happened several months before the event in Scorched Shadows, this one is set after.
The ARC is provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
Hmmm, I admit I am a little unsatisfied with this second installment of McHugh's The Avalon Chronicles series.
On the one hand, the fast-paced action scenes are good. I loved how McHugh developed the umbra's various powers ... it was like bunch of X-Men characters descending from the comics.
On the other hand, the way the story flow felt repetitive, and lack of characters' development and emotion. I mean, Layla discovered that but I didn't feel any troubled emotion from her.
I like action but I also want this to be more. In fact, the scenes I loved the most from this book was when Layla and her father, Caleb, were meeting and talking. It was definitely a COMPLICATED relationship, nonetheless I thought it was a good way to 'crack' Layla, so to speak. I look forward to more of scenes like this.
PS: No Nate at all in this book, and if the first book happened several months before the event in Scorched Shadows, this one is set after.
The ARC is provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
September 19, 2018
Over a year has passed between the end of book one, and this one. Layla has joined Tommy's organization in the fight against the bad guys that have taken over Avalon, primarily Nergal. Nergal is still after Layla and her father. This time around, his primary henchman (or henchwoman) is Kristin who has the ability to clone herself. She is a piece of work, a crazy piece.
Good second book in the series. The big picture plot comes more into focus. There were also plenty of surprises - There was something that bugged me a bit - the villains monologued a LOT. Now, maybe because I was listening to the audio version of the book and it might have highlighted the fact, but Kristin's character in particular, REALLY liked the sound of her own voice. I knew anytime one of her clones confronted Layla that I was in for a speech. The other villains were pretty chatty too. Not that it detracted from the book too much, but I did notice it and I think you might too. I still liked the book and I think I am going to enjoy this series almost as much as the Hellequin series. I've already put the next book on my TBR list for when it comes out in November.
Good second book in the series. The big picture plot comes more into focus. There were also plenty of surprises - There was something that bugged me a bit - the villains monologued a LOT. Now, maybe because I was listening to the audio version of the book and it might have highlighted the fact, but Kristin's character in particular, REALLY liked the sound of her own voice. I knew anytime one of her clones confronted Layla that I was in for a speech. The other villains were pretty chatty too. Not that it detracted from the book too much, but I did notice it and I think you might too. I still liked the book and I think I am going to enjoy this series almost as much as the Hellequin series. I've already put the next book on my TBR list for when it comes out in November.
July 13, 2018
*Source* NetGalley
*Genre* Urban Fantasy
*Rating* 3.5
*Thoughts*
A Flicker of Steel is the second installment in author Steve McHugh's The Avalon Chronicles. I'll will start with the fact that this story does NOT begin where A Glimmer of Hope ended. Nope! Apparently 16 months have passed, or 2 years since Layla Cassidy was dragged into this world with the murder of her friends and co-workers. I honestly thought the author would pick up right from where he left off with Layla understanding her new powers (ability to manipulate metal) and her relationship with the three spirits (Rosa, Servius, Gyda, and Terhal) she now carries, and her new role that she accepted at the end of the previous installment.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
http://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/201...
*Genre* Urban Fantasy
*Rating* 3.5
*Thoughts*
A Flicker of Steel is the second installment in author Steve McHugh's The Avalon Chronicles. I'll will start with the fact that this story does NOT begin where A Glimmer of Hope ended. Nope! Apparently 16 months have passed, or 2 years since Layla Cassidy was dragged into this world with the murder of her friends and co-workers. I honestly thought the author would pick up right from where he left off with Layla understanding her new powers (ability to manipulate metal) and her relationship with the three spirits (Rosa, Servius, Gyda, and Terhal) she now carries, and her new role that she accepted at the end of the previous installment.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
http://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/201...
July 10, 2018
This is an urban fantasy with so much action in it than the previous book, this really does kick off from where the previous book left off. Layla has not only come to terms with but actually seems to relish her new-found powers. She is still wary abut completely letting go to them but is forming bonds with her spirits and embracing her lifestyle as the game players in the battles are becoming more known.
I love the way the author has used mythological characters, gods and deities, legendary figures dwarves, elves and a whole range of others to wrap them into an urban fantasy setting. I really like this meld of old and new to create a really addictive read.
It was great to be able to catch up with these characters once more and it didn’t take me long to get back up to speed with who was who, and I got to learn more about the key players. I do have a couple of favourites like Remy, Chloe and Harry as well as the main focus character Layla. They have a certain bond and ease with each other as they deal with what lies in their path.
The book is based around the age-old battle of good and evil and not everyone fits where you expect adding to the intrigue, though you do become aware of who the evil side is. The battle scenes and skirmishes have been wonderfully described to a point where I could visualise as I was reading. They are creative as the characters have some very particular skill sets, choices of weaponry and there is of course an element of magic, it always adds a bit of spice.
I would recommend reading the first book as there is a lot of information as to the how, why and who of the characters and it does do a great job of building a foundation for what is following.
I think this is a very accessible book as the names of characters can be pronounced at a glance, it has a setting that people would be familiar with and an ease with which it is read. I would highly recommend A Flicker Of Steel to readers who love Urban Fantasy, Fantasy, Battles, Mythological and Legendary Figures, Battles between Good and Evil with some great characters and a very addictive read. It is a brilliant story and I cannot wait for the next one.
I love the way the author has used mythological characters, gods and deities, legendary figures dwarves, elves and a whole range of others to wrap them into an urban fantasy setting. I really like this meld of old and new to create a really addictive read.
It was great to be able to catch up with these characters once more and it didn’t take me long to get back up to speed with who was who, and I got to learn more about the key players. I do have a couple of favourites like Remy, Chloe and Harry as well as the main focus character Layla. They have a certain bond and ease with each other as they deal with what lies in their path.
The book is based around the age-old battle of good and evil and not everyone fits where you expect adding to the intrigue, though you do become aware of who the evil side is. The battle scenes and skirmishes have been wonderfully described to a point where I could visualise as I was reading. They are creative as the characters have some very particular skill sets, choices of weaponry and there is of course an element of magic, it always adds a bit of spice.
I would recommend reading the first book as there is a lot of information as to the how, why and who of the characters and it does do a great job of building a foundation for what is following.
I think this is a very accessible book as the names of characters can be pronounced at a glance, it has a setting that people would be familiar with and an ease with which it is read. I would highly recommend A Flicker Of Steel to readers who love Urban Fantasy, Fantasy, Battles, Mythological and Legendary Figures, Battles between Good and Evil with some great characters and a very addictive read. It is a brilliant story and I cannot wait for the next one.
July 6, 2018
Where to start on this?
I don't normally write reviews for books but I hated this one so much I felt obliged to. I've read all of the Helleqin series and enjoyed them all so far. I have always felt they were a little 'soppy' but never so much that it has effected me enjoying the series.
The problems I had with this book are as follows:
Some like 10% of this book is one character asking another character if they are OK or hugging it out (don't worry guys, we must be the good guys because we all hug it out all the time), it feels like 50%.
If characters are not asking if your OK, the Layla is wondering if things will every get better or if it will just get worse.
Despite there being Several very old/powerful/wise leaders around (Hades / Tommy/ Presephonie/ Olivia/Diana) they all wait around for Layla (new to magic and the Magic world) to act. This happens several times in the book and at no point are any of these people busy in a way that would make this make sense.
The characters talk about their anger in really abstract ways 'it feels like raw anger bubbling to the surface' who says that?
In addition to this the whole book feels really rushed/poorly edited, Steve re uses descriptions over and over. Sometimes in the same paragraph. Good guy uses their considerable strength to attack bad guy, but bad guy user their considerable strength back! Horrific.
Considerable strength - Considerable force - Incredible force So. Many. Times.
sentences that done make sense like Layla thinking about how she cannot fight Abbadon and she doesn't know where her friends are but ' Layla's only though was to find her friends and make sure they were okay. No you literally just said she was worried about running into Abbadon...
Then we get the Star Wars ending... are you kidding me Steve?
Now its possible if I didn't hate this book that I wouldn't mind this, I'm not sure.
Overall I hated the book from cover to cover, I stayed with it as it part of the series and then by 30% in I just felt I had to leave a review for it.
I don't normally write reviews for books but I hated this one so much I felt obliged to. I've read all of the Helleqin series and enjoyed them all so far. I have always felt they were a little 'soppy' but never so much that it has effected me enjoying the series.
The problems I had with this book are as follows:
Some like 10% of this book is one character asking another character if they are OK or hugging it out (don't worry guys, we must be the good guys because we all hug it out all the time), it feels like 50%.
If characters are not asking if your OK, the Layla is wondering if things will every get better or if it will just get worse.
Despite there being Several very old/powerful/wise leaders around (Hades / Tommy/ Presephonie/ Olivia/Diana) they all wait around for Layla (new to magic and the Magic world) to act. This happens several times in the book and at no point are any of these people busy in a way that would make this make sense.
The characters talk about their anger in really abstract ways 'it feels like raw anger bubbling to the surface' who says that?
In addition to this the whole book feels really rushed/poorly edited, Steve re uses descriptions over and over. Sometimes in the same paragraph. Good guy uses their considerable strength to attack bad guy, but bad guy user their considerable strength back! Horrific.
Considerable strength - Considerable force - Incredible force So. Many. Times.
sentences that done make sense like Layla thinking about how she cannot fight Abbadon and she doesn't know where her friends are but ' Layla's only though was to find her friends and make sure they were okay. No you literally just said she was worried about running into Abbadon...
Then we get the Star Wars ending... are you kidding me Steve?
Now its possible if I didn't hate this book that I wouldn't mind this, I'm not sure.
Overall I hated the book from cover to cover, I stayed with it as it part of the series and then by 30% in I just felt I had to leave a review for it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 11, 2018
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in order to provide an honest review.
The second instalment of the Avalon Chronicles jumps forward two years, and gives fans of the Hellequin Chronicles their first look at a post-Scorched Shadows world. Now that Avalon is out in the open, Layla has joined Hades to stop Arthur. It is another fast-paced, energetic novel, full of loveable (or, in some cases, detestable) characters, witty dialogue and a plot that pulls the reader along at breakneck speed. Also, there’s Remy. Lots of Remy! Remy is awesome, as always.
I’m now eagerly awaiting the third Avalon Chronicles novel, as I can’t wait to see how things pan out for Layla, Tommy, Hades and the rest of their motley crew.
The second instalment of the Avalon Chronicles jumps forward two years, and gives fans of the Hellequin Chronicles their first look at a post-Scorched Shadows world. Now that Avalon is out in the open, Layla has joined Hades to stop Arthur. It is another fast-paced, energetic novel, full of loveable (or, in some cases, detestable) characters, witty dialogue and a plot that pulls the reader along at breakneck speed. Also, there’s Remy. Lots of Remy! Remy is awesome, as always.
I’m now eagerly awaiting the third Avalon Chronicles novel, as I can’t wait to see how things pan out for Layla, Tommy, Hades and the rest of their motley crew.
May 26, 2019
Was this an accident? I read (and enjoyed) most of the Hellequin books as well as the first one of the "Avalon Chronicles" series.
But this second installment was, really, a catastrophy.
There was no real story apart from going from one battle to another, written in a "and then he hit her like this, and she hit him like that" kind of way. Boring.
After the 3rd or 4th battle I just skimmed the pages until, finally, some dialogue started again.
Oh, and the dialogues...what happened here? Nobody, not even in a "fantasy, sorcerer, werewolves..." novel is talking like that!
Oh and don't get me started on some basic logic, like Layla (the main character, a young girl) going into battle and giving orders to century old warriors on strategy? Come on! Not even in a fantasy novel!
This book really made no sense at all from beginning to the end.
Ok, I'll stop here.
Lets just sum it up: worst case scenario in terms of storytelling, character development, dialogue and tension.
I'll give the next one a chance, fingers crossed that this one was just an exception.
But this second installment was, really, a catastrophy.
There was no real story apart from going from one battle to another, written in a "and then he hit her like this, and she hit him like that" kind of way. Boring.
After the 3rd or 4th battle I just skimmed the pages until, finally, some dialogue started again.
Oh, and the dialogues...what happened here? Nobody, not even in a "fantasy, sorcerer, werewolves..." novel is talking like that!
Oh and don't get me started on some basic logic, like Layla (the main character, a young girl) going into battle and giving orders to century old warriors on strategy? Come on! Not even in a fantasy novel!
This book really made no sense at all from beginning to the end.
Ok, I'll stop here.
Lets just sum it up: worst case scenario in terms of storytelling, character development, dialogue and tension.
I'll give the next one a chance, fingers crossed that this one was just an exception.
July 14, 2018
Having come late to Steve McHugh's Hellequin Chronicles series when I read the final book in the series Scorched Shadows last year, I jumped at the chance to begin his new series, the Avalon Chronicles from the beginning and loved A Glimmer of Hope when I read it in March. I've been eagerly awaiting the next instalment ever since and from the very start of A Flicker of Steel I knew I was in for more top quality urban fantasy.
It's worth saying here that though I'm sure A Flicker of Steel can be thoroughly enjoyed as a standalone, I would recommend reading A Glimmer of Hope first if possible as this is a sequel rather than a separate story. For newcomers to the series, Layla Cassidy is an umbra since she inadvertently activated an ancient spirit scroll giving her immense powers. However, it also meant she now has three spirits and a demon living inside her and to access the full extent of her power she must merge with them entirely. She learned that what she thought were myths and legends are real; familiar faces from Camelot and Ancient Greece, werewolves, dwarves, ogres and sorcerers all exist - although just who the heroes and villains really are isn't as clear cut as the stories would have had us believe...
It's sixteen months since Layla was thrust into this world and in this time she has come to terms with her new life and her abilities. She has honed her powers and become a valuable member of the resistance who strive to fight Avalon before they become too powerful to overcome. Humans are no longer in the dark about Avalon's existence after its leader, Arthur exposed non-humans to the world. Governments have willingly ceded control with the people believing that Avalon will protect humanity. A Flicker of Steel opens as it means to go on, with Layla and friends about to carry out what she describes as "an astonishingly bad plan." Sure enough, they soon find themselves in the thick of it again as the fast-paced story sees them race from one violent confrontation to another.
There is so much packed into this story that it's quite hard to know where to begin; this is such a thrilling novel with more explosions, more violence and even more horrible ways to die. There's an awful lot of really brutal hand to hand combat, with more punches thrown in this book than in a boxing ring and the characters have some gruesomely imaginative ways to kill one another. There are some jaw-dropping twists as well, I was absolutely shocked by some of the revelations. Though the excitement never lets up, character develop is never sacrificed and for me, one of the (many) strengths of this series is just how invested I have become in the lives and relationships of this disparate group of rebels. Layla is such a wonderful character, a proper kick-ass heroine who still has to struggle with her feelings about her unconventional upbringing - something that she will have to face up to sooner or later with both sides trying to take control of her serial killer father. She's not the only strong female character however and I love how her best friends Chloe and Kase, Diana the werebear and even Persephone face the same dangerous situations as the male characters. I was delighted too, to see that my favourite character, Remy the wise-cracking fox-human hybrid returns and is as brilliantly inappropriate as ever. The villains are equally as well drawn, old enemies return bearing grudges and there are some particularly nasty new faces they must pit their wits and skills against too.
It's clear by the end of A Flicker of Steel that there is so much more to come. Though some enemies have been dispatched, the world remains in chaos. Layla's progression from the start of A Glimmer of Hope to the conclusion of A Flicker of Steel has been so engrossing and I can't wait to see what lies in store for her. With its sharp wit and snappy pop culture references, superb character development, vividly described and immersive action scenes and a beautifully crafted story arc, this is urban and mythological fantasy at its absolute finest. I suspect I've already made it clear just how much I loved this book but just in case there is any doubt, I honestly cannot recommend this fabulous novel - and series - highly enough. Absolutely brilliant!
It's worth saying here that though I'm sure A Flicker of Steel can be thoroughly enjoyed as a standalone, I would recommend reading A Glimmer of Hope first if possible as this is a sequel rather than a separate story. For newcomers to the series, Layla Cassidy is an umbra since she inadvertently activated an ancient spirit scroll giving her immense powers. However, it also meant she now has three spirits and a demon living inside her and to access the full extent of her power she must merge with them entirely. She learned that what she thought were myths and legends are real; familiar faces from Camelot and Ancient Greece, werewolves, dwarves, ogres and sorcerers all exist - although just who the heroes and villains really are isn't as clear cut as the stories would have had us believe...
It's sixteen months since Layla was thrust into this world and in this time she has come to terms with her new life and her abilities. She has honed her powers and become a valuable member of the resistance who strive to fight Avalon before they become too powerful to overcome. Humans are no longer in the dark about Avalon's existence after its leader, Arthur exposed non-humans to the world. Governments have willingly ceded control with the people believing that Avalon will protect humanity. A Flicker of Steel opens as it means to go on, with Layla and friends about to carry out what she describes as "an astonishingly bad plan." Sure enough, they soon find themselves in the thick of it again as the fast-paced story sees them race from one violent confrontation to another.
There is so much packed into this story that it's quite hard to know where to begin; this is such a thrilling novel with more explosions, more violence and even more horrible ways to die. There's an awful lot of really brutal hand to hand combat, with more punches thrown in this book than in a boxing ring and the characters have some gruesomely imaginative ways to kill one another. There are some jaw-dropping twists as well, I was absolutely shocked by some of the revelations. Though the excitement never lets up, character develop is never sacrificed and for me, one of the (many) strengths of this series is just how invested I have become in the lives and relationships of this disparate group of rebels. Layla is such a wonderful character, a proper kick-ass heroine who still has to struggle with her feelings about her unconventional upbringing - something that she will have to face up to sooner or later with both sides trying to take control of her serial killer father. She's not the only strong female character however and I love how her best friends Chloe and Kase, Diana the werebear and even Persephone face the same dangerous situations as the male characters. I was delighted too, to see that my favourite character, Remy the wise-cracking fox-human hybrid returns and is as brilliantly inappropriate as ever. The villains are equally as well drawn, old enemies return bearing grudges and there are some particularly nasty new faces they must pit their wits and skills against too.
It's clear by the end of A Flicker of Steel that there is so much more to come. Though some enemies have been dispatched, the world remains in chaos. Layla's progression from the start of A Glimmer of Hope to the conclusion of A Flicker of Steel has been so engrossing and I can't wait to see what lies in store for her. With its sharp wit and snappy pop culture references, superb character development, vividly described and immersive action scenes and a beautifully crafted story arc, this is urban and mythological fantasy at its absolute finest. I suspect I've already made it clear just how much I loved this book but just in case there is any doubt, I honestly cannot recommend this fabulous novel - and series - highly enough. Absolutely brilliant!
July 10, 2018
With the whole of Avalon against her, and several contesting spirits in her psyche, Layla has her work cut out. What she doesn't need is the return of her serial-killer father in her life.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
This is the second book in the Avalon series, and I wish I had started with the first book first, because I was left feeling out of the loop on a lot of the references to the history of the characters. That being said, it was still an enjoyable story and easily pulled you along on a new adventure, so I didn't feel like I'd missed out too much.
So this story follows Layla and her friends/colleagues, as they fight back against King Arthur (cool twist - he's the bad guy), and his minions. Mostly the minions. There's some significant magic-users that want to cause Layla & co as much pain as possible, whilst they retrieve her father.
I really liked the character of Layla's dad, he is surprisingly complex. He used to be in the FBI, and was considered a good guy, until they discovered he was a serial killer. After a few years in jail, painted as one of the most evil men on the planet, he is calm and cool, and can't understand why people are upset by the blood on his hands.
He really stood out for me in this cast of characters.
What this book does well, it does really well.
The action scenes are awesome, and they definitely get the adrenaline going.
Kinda linked with that, Layla's friends are a diverse cast of creatures, humans and empowered people. I want to find a way to put it professionally, but come on, it's so much fun to have a supernatural brawl!
The not-so-good.
There is a huge cast of characters and, despite the fact they're all various manner of spirit, werewolf, demon, witch, mythical figure etc, none of them stood apart (except Daddy Cassidy).
May be it would have been different if I'd read A Glimmer of Hope first, and got to know some of these charries; but I felt thrown in the deep end, and couldn't keep track of any of them. I couldn't even remember which were the bad guys and good guys, and had to skim back to work out why X was torturing Y, and why I should care about it.
The third-person narration drifts between characters, even within the same paragraph, so I often lost track of whose point of view I was dealing with.
There is also a lot of posturing and explanations in this book, which I felt slowed the whole thing down.
I quickly got bored of "Bad Guy" standing and stating all their intentions, and giving every detail. It left nothing to the imagination.
The other characters, including Layla, spend a lot of time laboriously going over every detail of who, what and why. Every thought is over-thought, and over-explained. I thought it could have easily been condensed into something smoother and shorter.
Overall, this was a 3.5 out of 5 for me. I would be interested in reading the rest of the series, as I think it has some great ideas.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
This is the second book in the Avalon series, and I wish I had started with the first book first, because I was left feeling out of the loop on a lot of the references to the history of the characters. That being said, it was still an enjoyable story and easily pulled you along on a new adventure, so I didn't feel like I'd missed out too much.
So this story follows Layla and her friends/colleagues, as they fight back against King Arthur (cool twist - he's the bad guy), and his minions. Mostly the minions. There's some significant magic-users that want to cause Layla & co as much pain as possible, whilst they retrieve her father.
I really liked the character of Layla's dad, he is surprisingly complex. He used to be in the FBI, and was considered a good guy, until they discovered he was a serial killer. After a few years in jail, painted as one of the most evil men on the planet, he is calm and cool, and can't understand why people are upset by the blood on his hands.
He really stood out for me in this cast of characters.
What this book does well, it does really well.
The action scenes are awesome, and they definitely get the adrenaline going.
Kinda linked with that, Layla's friends are a diverse cast of creatures, humans and empowered people. I want to find a way to put it professionally, but come on, it's so much fun to have a supernatural brawl!
The not-so-good.
There is a huge cast of characters and, despite the fact they're all various manner of spirit, werewolf, demon, witch, mythical figure etc, none of them stood apart (except Daddy Cassidy).
May be it would have been different if I'd read A Glimmer of Hope first, and got to know some of these charries; but I felt thrown in the deep end, and couldn't keep track of any of them. I couldn't even remember which were the bad guys and good guys, and had to skim back to work out why X was torturing Y, and why I should care about it.
The third-person narration drifts between characters, even within the same paragraph, so I often lost track of whose point of view I was dealing with.
There is also a lot of posturing and explanations in this book, which I felt slowed the whole thing down.
I quickly got bored of "Bad Guy" standing and stating all their intentions, and giving every detail. It left nothing to the imagination.
The other characters, including Layla, spend a lot of time laboriously going over every detail of who, what and why. Every thought is over-thought, and over-explained. I thought it could have easily been condensed into something smoother and shorter.
Overall, this was a 3.5 out of 5 for me. I would be interested in reading the rest of the series, as I think it has some great ideas.
October 5, 2019
I thought the first book in Avalon Chronicles was okay but this one was downright disappointing. It was sloppy and confusing at best. Two years are gone by and Avalon has shown it's true colors. It's now up to Hades, Thomas, Olivia and the rest of the crew to make a stand with Nate out of the picture. I was looking forward to see how it plays out but it was one chaotic mess of numerous fights, lame dialogues and repetitive scenes. Being a fan of the Hellequin Chronicles I know how well Steve McHugh can handle a huge cast and complex plot. I was in doubt if this was actually written by the same author. The thing is I haven't liked Layla from the first book. Being the protagonist of this spinoff, Layla sounds like an immature, YA heroine who is too whinny and self absorbed to be part of the badass world of this series. Even though I don't care much about Layla, I'm thoroughly invested in this world so I'm going to make myself read the last book. Can't wait for Sorcery Reborn. I need my favorite sorcerer back!!
May 31, 2020
Overall, I still love the series. But I do like Nate as a MC better than Layla. Although I grew to appreciate Layla in this book (meaning she didn’t annoy me quite as much), she’s just not my fave.
As this book, good character development and the story is finally linking back to where the Hellequin Chronicles left off. IMO, book 1 reads almost like a prequel, providing Layla’s backstory, how she connects to the characters we know, and how she became and adapted to being an umbra. This book really gets into the heart of the overarching story—the war against Arthur. A few scenes surprised me (no spoilers). And many familiar faces appear, although the majority of the book, of course, focuses on Layla, Chloe, Harry, Case, and a few others.
I will say, I am glad there’s only 3 books in this series before we get back to Nate. And I’m happy that Mordred returned to the story. I love his character.
As this book, good character development and the story is finally linking back to where the Hellequin Chronicles left off. IMO, book 1 reads almost like a prequel, providing Layla’s backstory, how she connects to the characters we know, and how she became and adapted to being an umbra. This book really gets into the heart of the overarching story—the war against Arthur. A few scenes surprised me (no spoilers). And many familiar faces appear, although the majority of the book, of course, focuses on Layla, Chloe, Harry, Case, and a few others.
I will say, I am glad there’s only 3 books in this series before we get back to Nate. And I’m happy that Mordred returned to the story. I love his character.
August 29, 2019
I enjoyed McHugh's Hellequin Chronicles. Sure, they're a bit self conscious in terms of ticking urban fantasy boxes, but they kept the interest and had engaging characters and decent plots. I can't say I was quite so into the newer series when the first book came out, even though the books take place in the same Universe, albeit a bit more opened up, but I stuck with it.
However, this feels so horribly by the numbers that I'm checking out. I didn't like any of the characters, even the one's I've 'met' before in the Hellequin Chronicles, the story dragged and felt rushed at the same time and I came to realise I just wasn't enjoying it anymore. Having to push through the pain barrier is no recommendation for a book!
However, this feels so horribly by the numbers that I'm checking out. I didn't like any of the characters, even the one's I've 'met' before in the Hellequin Chronicles, the story dragged and felt rushed at the same time and I came to realise I just wasn't enjoying it anymore. Having to push through the pain barrier is no recommendation for a book!
February 19, 2019
I loved A Glimmer of Hope, but this one just lost me. The fact that it jumps over a year ahead from the ending of the previous one really threw me off. I felt like I missed something. Granted this series is a companion to another one written by McHugh, but I was under the impression that I could read this one without needing to read the other. There are also so many characters that I had a hard time keeping track of who was who and what was going on at times.
Read
November 18, 2024Didn't realize this was the second in a series until I started reading.
Love books about King Arthur but in this King Arthur is the bad guy. Read other reviews and realized I probably wasn't going to understand what was going on because I didn't have the background. Since I wasn't enjoying it, I stopped. Not my thing.
DNF 4%
Love books about King Arthur but in this King Arthur is the bad guy. Read other reviews and realized I probably wasn't going to understand what was going on because I didn't have the background. Since I wasn't enjoying it, I stopped. Not my thing.
DNF 4%
October 7, 2019
Quick thoughts: Fine overall, but lacking a sequel to the Hellequin series. Trilogy feels like a side story and largely biding time until Nathan's return. Still solid writing and some interesting turns, but in a rough spot because of it's relation to the previous and forthcoming series and doesn't really overcome it.
September 14, 2018
I really like the Nate Garrison storyline and didn't think I would take to a spinoff. I was wrong. I look forward to reading the next one.
September 29, 2018
A bit disappointed
I wanted to really like this but i forced myself to read thru most of the chapters. This wasn't like the books w Nate or even the first in this series where i couldn't put things down. The book picked up pace and was great the last three chapters and i wish it had been like that at the onset. I won't say the beginning was fluff but it felt a bit like a YA novel and i can't even tell you what happened in most of it.
That said when the book got good it kept going. You learn that Layla's past isn't what she thought it was at all and that her dad is crazy but nuanced. There are a couple of surprises in here that were unexpected and interesting. I really liked the first book, this one was ok but i hope things pick up in the next. At this point i want to happens next because I'm more so vested in this world more than I am in Layla.
I wanted to really like this but i forced myself to read thru most of the chapters. This wasn't like the books w Nate or even the first in this series where i couldn't put things down. The book picked up pace and was great the last three chapters and i wish it had been like that at the onset. I won't say the beginning was fluff but it felt a bit like a YA novel and i can't even tell you what happened in most of it.
That said when the book got good it kept going. You learn that Layla's past isn't what she thought it was at all and that her dad is crazy but nuanced. There are a couple of surprises in here that were unexpected and interesting. I really liked the first book, this one was ok but i hope things pick up in the next. At this point i want to happens next because I'm more so vested in this world more than I am in Layla.
June 12, 2018
A hell of a lot of characters thrown into the storyline made this book much too confusing to keep up with. I'm sad to say that this was a big fat DNF for me. If the writer had simplified this a bit more. Then I would have given it more stars. As it was it was too rushed and too overwhelming
July 7, 2018
2 books in and I have to say that this new series just isn't working for me. I'm a big fan of the Hellequin books and I think that is where this series falls short. The Hellequin novels have multiple books getting you interested in a world and a whole cast of characters. Now this new series comes along that relegates the main characters we (or maybe "I" would be more accurate) want to read about to the role of supporting characters at best, and no shows at worst.
Therefore no matter how competently written these books are, I just can't get interested in what feels like a B-Team story when I know the A-team is out there somewhere where I want to be. I lost count of the number of times in this book when I kept thinking (and hoping), "I wonder if Nate will show up here to save the day."
What is worse is that the protagonist of these books isn't even the most interesting character these stories could be explored through. Kasey (Tommy and Olivia's daughter) would have been a great better choice (for me at least). She's a character that has been built up in other novels, she is unique in her own right, had genuine connections to all the major players and larger stories, and is all round a much more interesting character than Layla.
The annoying thing is that Mr McHugh is well aware that he's writing about a lower tier of characters and story. For starters the stories themselves are only tangentially related to the larger story arc, and are much smaller in scope. Then there are the constant references everyone keeps making about how they are out of their league with all of the big players (like sorcerers, ancient god characters, etc). Finally there are even pop culture references that the main characters don't even live up to in their own story (Layla is basically discount magneto).
Basically, these last two books have felt like novellas about side stories in this world that have run on a little long.
I think there's one more to get through before we are mercifully back with Nate, and I can't wait for that. I think I might just have to Kindle Unlimited the next one to see how it goes, and go back to physical book when the real story picks up again.
Overall a book that could have been much better. I wonder if my reaction would be different if it was set in a new world completely unrelated to Hellequin. As it stands though, it's a competent 3-stars and not much more.
Therefore no matter how competently written these books are, I just can't get interested in what feels like a B-Team story when I know the A-team is out there somewhere where I want to be. I lost count of the number of times in this book when I kept thinking (and hoping), "I wonder if Nate will show up here to save the day."
What is worse is that the protagonist of these books isn't even the most interesting character these stories could be explored through. Kasey (Tommy and Olivia's daughter) would have been a great better choice (for me at least). She's a character that has been built up in other novels, she is unique in her own right, had genuine connections to all the major players and larger stories, and is all round a much more interesting character than Layla.
The annoying thing is that Mr McHugh is well aware that he's writing about a lower tier of characters and story. For starters the stories themselves are only tangentially related to the larger story arc, and are much smaller in scope. Then there are the constant references everyone keeps making about how they are out of their league with all of the big players (like sorcerers, ancient god characters, etc). Finally there are even pop culture references that the main characters don't even live up to in their own story (Layla is basically discount magneto).
Basically, these last two books have felt like novellas about side stories in this world that have run on a little long.
I think there's one more to get through before we are mercifully back with Nate, and I can't wait for that. I think I might just have to Kindle Unlimited the next one to see how it goes, and go back to physical book when the real story picks up again.
Overall a book that could have been much better. I wonder if my reaction would be different if it was set in a new world completely unrelated to Hellequin. As it stands though, it's a competent 3-stars and not much more.
July 7, 2018
Over a short amount of time, I powered through Mr McHugh's the last three books of Hellequin Chronicles and then straight on to the first book of The Avalon Chronicles. After reading A Glimmer of Hope and seeing that the second book was up for pre-order, I was extremely excited.
So I have finished A Flicker of Steel, and now want to read the next one... but I have to wait until November...
I guess I should start with this review. Where was I? Oh yes, A Flicker of Steel. FoS expanded a lot from the last one, it been two years since the previous book and is set after Scorched Shadows (So now I understand the timeline), we pick up with Layla as a full-time agent. As this expands what happened after the takeover (if you want to know more read Hellequin Chronicles) and catch up Tommy, Oliva, Cassy, Chloe and Harry.
Seeing how they have grown and have been dealing with this new status quo and how they all need desperately need a win. There is not much I can say about this book without spoiling the heck of it.
The growth of Layla from the first book to the end of this one was marvellous to watch. In the first one, she thought she was a monster like her father, in this one she has accepted that darkness exists within herself, but you don't need to lose yourself.
The book is action-packed and fantastic.
And again my hat goes off to Elizabeth Knowelden's narration as it allows the humour, excitement, emotion and characters come to life. Her skill to give the listener/reader the full picture from her use different tones, accents and pitch. Miss Knowelden is brilliant and brings the level of the book beyond five stars!
Just like Mr McHugh has written so far, every book builds on the previous books and finally this book it connects to the larger storyline. Which make me want to read the next book to see what happens!
5 out of 5 stars! (With Miss Knowelden 10 out of 5 stars!)
So I have finished A Flicker of Steel, and now want to read the next one... but I have to wait until November...
I guess I should start with this review. Where was I? Oh yes, A Flicker of Steel. FoS expanded a lot from the last one, it been two years since the previous book and is set after Scorched Shadows (So now I understand the timeline), we pick up with Layla as a full-time agent. As this expands what happened after the takeover (if you want to know more read Hellequin Chronicles) and catch up Tommy, Oliva, Cassy, Chloe and Harry.
Seeing how they have grown and have been dealing with this new status quo and how they all need desperately need a win. There is not much I can say about this book without spoiling the heck of it.
The growth of Layla from the first book to the end of this one was marvellous to watch. In the first one, she thought she was a monster like her father, in this one she has accepted that darkness exists within herself, but you don't need to lose yourself.
The book is action-packed and fantastic.
And again my hat goes off to Elizabeth Knowelden's narration as it allows the humour, excitement, emotion and characters come to life. Her skill to give the listener/reader the full picture from her use different tones, accents and pitch. Miss Knowelden is brilliant and brings the level of the book beyond five stars!
Just like Mr McHugh has written so far, every book builds on the previous books and finally this book it connects to the larger storyline. Which make me want to read the next book to see what happens!
5 out of 5 stars! (With Miss Knowelden 10 out of 5 stars!)
July 6, 2018
I was a bit disappointed with this latest addition to the Hellequin universe. A lot of space was used to reintroduce characters that people who read the previous books should already know.. Also, I can understand how this book is following Layla's pov but making her the team leader and having other characters waiting around while she recovers from various injuries before making decisions didn't make sense. These are characters that have been alive for hundreds if not thousands of years but cant decide anything until a twenty something year old tells them her opinion. Before this series all the other books switched from either various time periods or pov's. I think this book would have benefited from two main characters, Layla and either say her father, Hades, Tommy, Chloe or another previously established person. This would have given us a better picture on what was happening in the big picture. I still plan on following this series and I am eagerly waiting for Nate to return and the ass whipping to start!
July 10, 2018
Well I am lost for words again trying to sum up Steve’s book . I was worried when book one of this series came out due to no Nate but that fear was not warranted . This book I feel has been really well thought out and every chapter slots in to make this way better than first especially how well the main character has grown into a bad ass umbra, I also loved hove supporting cast from friends and the rebellion have been entwined with this and Nate’s books . The arc of this series has been incredible with lyla and her dysfunctional family playing more important role and learning some facts about her dad and mum history around her dads serial killing spree. I loved mordreds cameo at the end saying that one character has stole every book he’s been in since we where introduced to him way back Remy , he’s my favorite and this book seems to be his best so far his wise cracking humor is hysterical please give Mr fantastic fox his own book
July 23, 2018
Recieved from Netgalley. I read the first one back in March and didn’t do a recap so I started off a little confused. So the story dives straight into the action with Layla now tasked to transfer her murderous father out of prison. With enemies on all sides it’s up to her friends, metal power and spirits. Remy is still my favourite character, although I adore Harry. Remy because of the humour and Harry because he’s the powerless brainbox with a heart of gold. Kristen was a whack job, Caleb was pretty awesome. I’d say my favourite bit was the helicopter rotor but the goomba line beat it. Definitely looking forward to reading the next one.
July 25, 2018
I so wanted to like this book and the continuing adventures of Layla and Chloe...but I couldn't. I put it aside for a day or two and started again.
SPOILERS
First off, we time jump two years. So we didn't get to see how Layla grew into her spirits. I believe this is a missed opportunity to see growth. Avalon has changed. Arthur is a bad guy and the world is at war. We now are setting off to get Layla's father. There are a number of betrayals, but oddly enough, not her father. He is who he is. But going over and over and over about how Layla doesn't trust her father and how he will kill people.
Just stop right there. The readers have just found out there is a war going and and Layla doesn't want to kill people, though she is being trained or has been trained in the last couple of years to fight and kill people. Not only that, she's the one in charge of the gods and goddesses in the story. WHAT? Yup, she's the leader of the group. Not getting it.
Remy develops a new pop in and out power out of the blue in mid book. SMH! Shouldn't that have been mentioned in the beginning.
Layla is also betrayed by one of the prison guards and her own boyfriend. Okay, enough. There are some plot holes big enough to drive an oni through.
Mommy Dearest is now a revenant and it is just overkill with the number of characters in the story. POV bounces. It is not just from Layla's POV, but new character Kristin as well. Then, her spirits begin to bond with her and disappear. I liked them! Now they will only come out when she dreams.
I liked the first story and was really looking forward to this one. However, I was disappointed. The author brings out how this is his tenth book and it feels like it is his first. I will read the next one as well and I really hope it reads better.
SPOILERS
First off, we time jump two years. So we didn't get to see how Layla grew into her spirits. I believe this is a missed opportunity to see growth. Avalon has changed. Arthur is a bad guy and the world is at war. We now are setting off to get Layla's father. There are a number of betrayals, but oddly enough, not her father. He is who he is. But going over and over and over about how Layla doesn't trust her father and how he will kill people.
Just stop right there. The readers have just found out there is a war going and and Layla doesn't want to kill people, though she is being trained or has been trained in the last couple of years to fight and kill people. Not only that, she's the one in charge of the gods and goddesses in the story. WHAT? Yup, she's the leader of the group. Not getting it.
Remy develops a new pop in and out power out of the blue in mid book. SMH! Shouldn't that have been mentioned in the beginning.
Layla is also betrayed by one of the prison guards and her own boyfriend. Okay, enough. There are some plot holes big enough to drive an oni through.
Mommy Dearest is now a revenant and it is just overkill with the number of characters in the story. POV bounces. It is not just from Layla's POV, but new character Kristin as well. Then, her spirits begin to bond with her and disappear. I liked them! Now they will only come out when she dreams.
I liked the first story and was really looking forward to this one. However, I was disappointed. The author brings out how this is his tenth book and it feels like it is his first. I will read the next one as well and I really hope it reads better.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 9, 2018
Not what I expected
What happened?? The first book was so amazing that I could hardly wait to read this one.
I started reading this book and became confused. I had to check to make sure I was reading the right book. I thought I’d skipped to the third one on accident. But no? It was the second so I figured a few months had been skipped and then I realized I hardly recognized the character.
Turned out the author had skipped one-two years. Which made me very sad. I missed out on so much. The friendships, her first kill, her boyfriend, Avalon going bad. It was a struggle to catch up and then the book switched to a different character.
As the reader I had no idea what was going on. Freeness were introduced and had a connection with the main character and I almost felt like a third wheel because I had missed out on getting to know them. The author tried to explain what had happened too late in the book. I couldn’t keep up.
The new villains didn’t seem real enough. Their dialogue too forced or cheesy I’m not very sure. I only got halfway through the book and now I can’t go on.
I wanted to be there when she met her father so I read up until that point and just can’t continue.
The main character changed too much by jumping so far ahead. She had released her demon twice and I don’t get to experience that with her.
Good book but just too much changed for me to feel that connection.
What happened?? The first book was so amazing that I could hardly wait to read this one.
I started reading this book and became confused. I had to check to make sure I was reading the right book. I thought I’d skipped to the third one on accident. But no? It was the second so I figured a few months had been skipped and then I realized I hardly recognized the character.
Turned out the author had skipped one-two years. Which made me very sad. I missed out on so much. The friendships, her first kill, her boyfriend, Avalon going bad. It was a struggle to catch up and then the book switched to a different character.
As the reader I had no idea what was going on. Freeness were introduced and had a connection with the main character and I almost felt like a third wheel because I had missed out on getting to know them. The author tried to explain what had happened too late in the book. I couldn’t keep up.
The new villains didn’t seem real enough. Their dialogue too forced or cheesy I’m not very sure. I only got halfway through the book and now I can’t go on.
I wanted to be there when she met her father so I read up until that point and just can’t continue.
The main character changed too much by jumping so far ahead. She had released her demon twice and I don’t get to experience that with her.
Good book but just too much changed for me to feel that connection.
October 19, 2018
More background magic
I only got to the 58% mark and couldn't finish. The book would probably work for most people but the main character constantly worrying that she'll become a monster wore me down. The dialogue had a little too much banter for me to take some critical scenes seriously. Once in a while, I could handle but as it was, I felt overloaded by it.
The main character seemed more YA/Teen in this book for some reason. Her reluctance to kill enemies who tried to kill her and/or her friends got hard to swallow. The overriding need to arrest villains who are dedicated to escaping and killing as many people as possible in the process, didn't make sense. I realize that I have an american sensibility, which includes "leave no live enemies behind you", but I thought that the main character would accept her circumstances and do what she needs to do. I don't think that her reluctance to kill is a bad thing but it slows down the story in parts.
Man, does that say something about me. I know that years ago, I would have preferred a character with these qualms but now, it feels unbelievable. I still like the writer and the story but it may take some time to work my way back to accepting the flow of this series. Overall, I think most people will enjoy the books, if they try them.
I only got to the 58% mark and couldn't finish. The book would probably work for most people but the main character constantly worrying that she'll become a monster wore me down. The dialogue had a little too much banter for me to take some critical scenes seriously. Once in a while, I could handle but as it was, I felt overloaded by it.
The main character seemed more YA/Teen in this book for some reason. Her reluctance to kill enemies who tried to kill her and/or her friends got hard to swallow. The overriding need to arrest villains who are dedicated to escaping and killing as many people as possible in the process, didn't make sense. I realize that I have an american sensibility, which includes "leave no live enemies behind you", but I thought that the main character would accept her circumstances and do what she needs to do. I don't think that her reluctance to kill is a bad thing but it slows down the story in parts.
Man, does that say something about me. I know that years ago, I would have preferred a character with these qualms but now, it feels unbelievable. I still like the writer and the story but it may take some time to work my way back to accepting the flow of this series. Overall, I think most people will enjoy the books, if they try them.
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