Hellgates. Interdimensional portals that lead to a parallel world some call The Pit. Others call it Hell, a place of brutality, torture and unbelievable suffering. There is only one force that can protect the Earth from the vile creatures that crawl out of these Hellgates.
The Hidden Hand. It is a ruthless and secret organisation that guards the world of humanity. For centuries, its agents have hunted down the invaders from that other world. Be you human or monster, the Hidden Hand will show you no mercy.
A second chance? Special Forces officer, Craig Armstrong, made a mistake and innocent people died. With his career in ruins, he faces disgrace and ten brutal years in military prison. Instead, he is offered a chance at redemption, and joins the elite ranks of the Hidden Hand.
There's just one problem. His first month on the job and the Hidden Hand is faced with its greatest threat yet. Worldwide, the Hellgates are waking up, threatening to unleash the apocalypse upon the Earth.
Craig is about to discover that keeping secrets comes with a terrible price.
Hellgates is book 1 in the Hidden Hand Case Files, a pre-apocalyptic horror series.
Demons, secret societies, conversant AIs, a world on the edge of an apocalypse - this book has it all. Featuring an ensemble cast who come together in some rather unexpected ways through a complex story line. It's a bit of a sci-fi take on a potentially apocalyptic demon incursion with plenty of action. Just who is manipulating who, their motivations and how the pieces come together continued to surprise me.
This book has similar themes to Deville's other books, but he puts it together in a totally different way. Which is to say if you like The Apocalyptic Prophesies, you will like this one, fresh take on a similar type story. Hidden Hand Case Files has more a sci-fi/multiverse feel where Apocalyptic Prophesies was more religious conspiracy theory/paranormal. It is horror, and features some rather evil characters as well as a fair amount of violence. Additionally, no good deed goes unpunished. Dark book, frighteningly plausible. Some of the creepiest parts are things that are verifiably true in London today. Book 1 in the series this book is a crazy adventure that ends with a big setup for things to come.
Really good story and a great cast. Lots of action, suspense and adventure. It keeps your attention and on the edge of your seat. This is one apocalypse I wouldn't want to live through. I recommend reading.
Sean has a style of delivery which really works for me. Intertwining the story with characters with a subtle sledgehammer. It works, leaves you wanting more. A great addition to this author's works. Looking forward to the next!!!
I did enjoy this demonic apocalyptic end of the world adventure! Good pace & excitement, scary idea! I liked the overall style & energy of the story, a good fun read!
Craig, Lucy and Stuart were called back to the Hidden Hand an organization that no one knows about to help keep the Hellgates portals from opening in order to keep the demons and chaos from coming to earth and causing destruction. Lots of intense action and some very scary situations. Will keep you reading till the end. Greatly written.
Merged review:
Craig, Lucy, and Stuart were called back to the Hidden Hand an organization that no one knows about to help keep the Hellgates portals from opening in order to keep the demons and chaos from coming to earth and causing destruction. Lots of intense action and some very scary situations. Will keep you reading till the end. Greatly written.