Scorched Shadows (The Hellequin Chronicles Book 7)

I've been a fan of this series since the beginning, as this is the last installment in the series, and I was not quite ready to face that, so I put off reading it. Now in some ways I wish I hadn't, while in others I wish I'd rather have not picked up this one at all. It's left me with mixed emotions, as I am wondering what comes after this, I still have more questions than answers. And I was not expecting the story to end where it did, yet at the same time I don't really see how else it could have ended unless..Well, I don't want to say..It might spoil things. That all said, and while this one got off to a slow start for me, I did enjoy it up to a point, once the story kicks into high gear, it never lets up, not even to the end. If yo've read the others, it's worth the read, I suppose, but can't really recommend it, as it left me feeling a bit let down.

I just finished Scorched Shadows and after being entranced by the first five books, I was completely let down by this one. We were led to believe this was the final book and all would be resolved. But it wasn't even close. I am disappointed and feel cheated. This opened up so many more questions and gave us few answers. ***SPOILER***. We are left with an evil Arthur in charge, the good guys on the run, and Nate with no powers for at least a year. This is not how I envisioned the "last Hellequin book" to end. And funny how the author made it work by a bed guy using the Hellequin name so Nate drops it. THAT'S how Hellequin ends? Cheater.

Simply the best book of the series, which in of itself was/is a great series. What a great job thru the series with all of the characters, especially with Mordred who became the star of the book as far as I'm concerned. If anyone did not like the series or the book then they are reading the wrong genre. Fabulous job on the editing and writing. This is the kind of series you go back and start over now that you have the whole story. This book was just great the whole way thru. I can't remember any part of the story that was not engaging. Great job by the author- and look forward to keeping this story alive. Thank you-

This book matched the previous as my favorite(s) book of the series. I thought it answered a lot of questions while leaving do much more to uncover. This series was an excellent opening to a wider story and I hope and look forward to the stories to come, both starring Nate and otherwise.

Like all of Steve McHugh's Hellequin books, this one was fast paced, engaging, and really enjoyable to read. I highly recommend it to those of you who love this series or Fantasy in general.

I got caught up in the whole story (again) and was sad to reach the end of the book. While McHugh has written that this is the last Hellequin novel, this doesn't means it's the last book featuring Nathaniel Garret. He's definitely not done with him yet. The next book is in the works. And I cannot wait to read it!!!

Hellequin end? No way! I've thoroughly enjoyed every book in this series, and waited with baited breath for each new book to come out. Well done by the author, I don't write reviews very often, only when the book moves me one way or the other, and this one moved me a great deal! I'm glad Mr McHugh is going to continue the adventures of Nate and friends. I can hardly wait! Here I am waiting with baited breath again...

Easily my favorite book in the series since Crimes Against Magic. In the book Steve wraps up tons of on-going conflicts, answers questions on who is who and even brings Remy some slight action. Mordred is fantastic and after following Steve on FB I can definitely see a lot of him in Mordred. All in all, just a great book as it gives you action, humor and one hell of a finish to Hellequin.

Essentially the bad guys manage to kill off everyone who matters other than half a dozen people. The MC is now human and is no longer a danger to anyone despite 7 books worth of build up regarding how dangerous he could be. The bad guys have literally taken control of the planet. The end. If you like dark depressing ending with zero hope in sight this is your book! It's essentially going to require a deus ex machina for the bad guys to lose.

Wow, I've been waiting for this book and was not disappointed! Holy cow was a lot explained in this book! Still a lot of unanswered questions though... Loved the look into Mordred's mind, did not like how the world was left in chaos but the promise of more books in this world is exciting. With this being the end of the Hellequin saga I cannot wait to see what is coming next!

I have loved this series since I picked up book one, and book seven does not disappoint. The story is absolutely brilliant, takes you on a great journey with twists and turns. I can honestly saw there were several times I caught myself saying "I didn't see that coming". Can't wait to read more from Steve in the future.

I got caught flat footed, I admit it. When I heard this was the last Hellequin novel I watched the pace of the storytelling quietly cursing Steve the entire way. How was he going to tie up all the loose ends so quickly without rushing the story? So much to accomplish I read my way through waiting for some cheesy and easy ending. Don't worry that won't happen. If your a fan of the series I already know you have this book. If your considering the series than I will say clearly BUY IT! You will not be disappointed.

This was one of the better Hellequin books in my opinion. It was certainly non-stop, and seemed like the kind of book that was trying to careen its way to end a series. After all, this is being marketed as "the end of the Hellequin Chronicles."

Spoiler alert - it's not. Not even close. So don't buy this looking for closure on the series. At the end you'll see that there is some room to shake things up a bit in the next book or two, but the overall story arc will continue.

And yes, I saw the author's note. That's the kind of sophistry that leads to people saying things like, "It depends in what the definition of 'is' is."

Great ending to Hellequin's story. The pacing was on point, never leaving me wishing the story would just get on with it. There was a few points where i was a little confused about what was going on and had to go over again to understand, but thankfully they were few and far between. The ending left me wanting more, making it that much harder having to wait. This was a great way to end the Hellequin Chronicles.

There is a great deal going on in this book. I am going to try to avoid spoilers here, as much as I can.

First, as the author has repeatedly said on his FB fan page, his blog, and in comments elsewhere, this is only the end of the Hellequin story arc, not the end of the overall story by any means. There are a bunch of more details that are still withheld from this book, but the book itself is a roundhouse kick in the face, with all the changes to the scenarios that have been status quo until now.

They mystery about the blood curse marks is finished, you get to find out why they were withheld. You get a bit more information about Nate's past, and his capabilities, plus a few new abilities are unlocked. Mordred gets lots of page time. I really like the quirky way he comes across in this book, someone who has obviously been through a lot, but is still ticking (mostly), and still trying to do the right thing.

The biggest changes are the alterations to the status quo that have held for the thousands of years in the story line, plus additions of characters to the story that had been sort of there, but not fully known until this book. Characters that we have seen in action change dramatically and there are losses. Uncertainties are revealed about alignments and loyalties that had been murky before. The whole 'Magic must...' rule, but I promised to try to avoid spoilers.

Brilliant book, you will be guessing until the end of it. Very well done. I can't wait til the next series starts up.

This series lost its spark some time after book 4.The author should have ended it. Instead the last one and this one are just stretched out versions of the some story.

And it's not even the story with which the arc first began. There is no cleverness in this book nor the story. I have given up on it as you can tell and this after I bought all in the series. Loved the first one, liked the next 2 or 3 then just blah.

Not the best or worst but definitely not an ending to the series. Once you read the book you will understand why, but it is bs in my mind to say the story is coming to some sort of conclusion when nothing of the sort happens. Loved the other books but this just seemed rushed and mostly filler. Hope the next series "ends" better.

The world building that Steve McHugh has done with this series has been awesome. The perspective he gives on explaining pantheons like the Greeks makes it all seem plausible. I honestly had a very hard time putting this book down, and will be marathoning all 7 once the audio book is out.

This has hands down become my all time favorite book series. I recommend it to everyone I know that enjoys this genre.

This series has long been one of my favourite series of all time. Nathaniel 'Nate' Garrett is one of the most hardcore characters that I have ever encountered in literature and Steve McHugh continues to deliver.

While this won't be the last we see of Nate according, to the author, this is the conclusion to the Hellequin arc of the series and finally brings the Head Villians into the light. This series is a must read both for fans of the genre and for fans of good literature in general.

Only read because last book in series, but doesn't end series just changes name of series. The adults forced the kids into power years ago, then the kids in power overthrow the government which they are in charge of so that they can be in charge.

This was from my point of view, very nice ending of the Hellequin chapter of Nate's life. Some of the secrets are explained, the identity of the mysterious Liege is revealed and the premise for continuation is set up.
I just hope next books dealing with Nate, Avalon and all the others will come soon.

The Hellequin Chronicles is one of the better fantasy series out there; I've been following since it was self published on the store with the first book of the series, and it is absolutely worth a read. Dresden files is the Gold Standard for the genre, and while Hellequin isn't quite at that level it's certainly silver medal worthy (Iron Druid series is a good comparison, and it's MUCH better than the Demon Accords or Nate Temple series)

Scorched Shadows in particular is an excellent book in the Urban Fantasy genre; not without faults, but also truly a good read and worth every penny of the price to pick it up. On display here are Mr. McHugh's signature high-level action scenes and descriptions, great humor from pop-culture references and snark, creative insults, and top-notch characterizations of individual characters. Criticisms: Mr. McHugh jumps into the action too early in the book (as he does in book 6), not fully developing the novel before getting into the meat of the story. Also, while fans of the novel were expecting resolution at the end of the book (this is the last of the Hellequin series), the ending doesn't actually provide it, as it mostly serves as the set up for a sequel series in the same universe with the same characters, but after some fundamental changes that take place here plot wise.

Mr. McHugh has created a wonderfully immersive universe with inventive, well thought-out, and consistent mythology. Nathan Garrett, as a character, is multi-faceted, complex, and infinitely relatable - but what sets Hellequin apart from other books is the deftness, subtlety, and skill with which all the other characters are written. Nearly every character, major or minor, has nuance and a level of realistic treatment that really enhance the story in particular and the universe as a whole. Unlike so many other fantasy writers, McHugh doesn't fall into a pattern of always needing a bigger, badder villain with each novel in the series - and though that pattern does show in part, he handles it well, making it an organic part of the story rather than formulaic, trite, or contrived, and has been building towards a specific end goal since book 2 rather than constantly transforming around the need for a new and more powerful villain each book. Excellent story telling, wonderful humor, top-notch action, and genuinely interesting mystery - the Hellequin Chronicles are Urban Fantasy done right, and done well. Enjoy!

4.5 stars from me mainly as I'm annoyed with the ending, kind of!! I was under the impression this was the last book in this series, which it is BUT the storyline, characters, arcs etc all continue under a different a name for reasons I won't give as I don't like writing spoilers!! It bugged me as I was expecting a proper ending to this whole storyline then Nate to go on in another series possibly in other realms!! Sneaky Mr McHugh, very sneaky ?

This book is all set in the present which is new for this series. Mordred plays a big role again. There is a huge loss for him & Nate, it made me teary!!?

This book is as epic as you'd expect. It crosses oceans & continents & jumps to different realms. We find out who 'My Liege' is, finally and we're left with our band of heroes trying to gather themselves & consolidate their power in hiding!!

I hope the next book comes out reasonably quickly!! These books are addictive ? I read this book using Kindle Unlimited.

Debbie, 1970, UK

I read these last 2 books back 2 back. Steve McHugh, my husband & children hate you. LMAO!!! I'm as useless as the g in Lasagna when I hit a book/series worthy of my time. And like I've said b4 Hellequin is "Squee" worthy. Actually, my oldest son is going to start reading the 1st novel. He's a reader like me & I told him he"d love Hellequin/Nate Garrett. He also gets to hear parts of it in the car on the way to school and back.
SPOILERS!!!!!! SPOILERS!!!!!!!! IF U HAVEN'T READ THE LAST 2 BOOKS STOP HERE!!!
I believe I said how hot I thought Mordred was in my 1st review but Mordred's hotness factor skyrocketed in these last 2 books. Especially during the assassinations of Viktor (strike 3 u're out), Daria, (u didn't learn) & Mara (been shoulda killed that b***h w/ fire) & their WHOLE protection squad. Woooo!!! Hot DIZAMN WAS THAT HOT! I know, I really should seek help. (U're all probably wondering if my husband knows that I 'm a psychopath? The answer is yes & all 3 kids r strange too)
Moving on, Nate & Galahad, I thought about pulling the car over, tears. Nate & Helios, I was so mad, I was aggressively driving & realised I needed to slow the hell down. (no kids n car yet) I could not help Nate kill Helios by grippin my steering wheel harder & speedin to my kid's school. Destroying those Blood Elves & killing Helios felt great OH! I forgot about Lee! I was like, "Effing LEE!" Fa Reals? I laughed at that same w/ the previous book, like KAY! Baldr was a curve ball, I thought it was gonna be Nergal, cuz no one had seen hide not hair of him, right, or did I miss something?
Anyway, Mordred & Galahad, tears again (1 child obtained). Now, Ares, I BOL'ing @ 1 of Nate's comments when they were about to fight (I hate that I have to keep this so PG for the store which is why I started skipping giving reviews on here but it's linked to Goodreads now so...) Ares was clearly insane for thinking that was a fair fight in Nate's condition but I did think he should've tried to take his soul or was he stopped by Deimos, Gawain & Abaddon?
Afterthat, I was THRILLED that Nate fought & killed Deimos but more than that, I was glad that Nate got to tell the "creepy little bag of d**ks" (BOL!) about himself. That he was a spoiled brat & that in all his thousands of years of living he should've grown up by now & stopped looking for daddy's approval. Finally, he was dead, good riddance to bad rubbish.

BUT NONE OF THAT PREPARED ME FOR WHAT Steve McHugh, U CRAFTY, BRILLIANT, KICK A** STORYTELLER, DID. He flipped the script & made Arthur Pendragon the true villain of this piece; of the ENTIRE shebang! Arthur was "My Liege" all along. He was mentally manipulating Merlin, Gawain... Hell errbody!!!
Back when I used to read books made of paper & at the end, the book was really good, I used to sail the book across the room to dash against the wall. I did that b/c in dramatic movies & soap operas, a couple would be so into each other, they would dash their champagne flutes into the fire. Steve, this is me dashing your book against the wall. U DID that series. I & the rest of your Nate Garret/ Mordred (growl mama likes) fans can't wait to see what u do next w/ them next.

To start with this book, seven in the Hellequin Chronicles, without having read the previous six books may have been a bit daring (even foolish) especially since this is also the last book the series. It's like seeing the last 20 min of a movie. It's interesting, but you feel like you have missed a lot of things that are mentioned. However, I must say, despite that did I find the book surprisingly easy to get into and even more surprisingly easy to keep a check on all the characters. And, trust me they are many. I think that the reason for the easiness is the fact that most of the characters are mythological ones. Both familiar names and new ones for me. But, the names stuck and I never felt a bit lost, instead was I intrigued by this absolutely fascinating mix of mythological beings in a modern setting. Also, this good vs bad story always work for me.

It's a thick book. And, yes there were moments I felt like, not necessary the story dragged out, but rather it was a lot of things to take in with Nate Garrett and Mordred hunt after the mysterious "My Liege". There were a lot of fights all through the books as they fought enemies, searched after missing friends and tried to find out the truth about the person behind the "My Liege" alias.

I definitely think this a book worth reading. However, you should probably start with book one. And, I know that this is the last book in this chronicle. However, I did get a feeling that this is not really the end...

If you liked the previous 6 books then this one is no surprise, just more of the same. From the the store book page "In the final chapter of the Hellequin Chronicles, secrets will be revealed, friendships tested, and destinies fulfilled." Yeah, well, not so much. See Spoiler Alert.
-2 stars for the money grubbing lies by the author advertising this as the some sort of finale" of the series.
Spoiler Alert!
The author just drops the Hellequin name and continues on Ad infinitum or should I say Ad nauseam!
Truthfully, after 6 books I was looking forward to a conclusion to the Hellequin story arc and looking for a fresh story line. Alas, not to be! A name change does not a new story make and this is just a continuum of the previous story line.
So, author off follow, last review of this series done, moving on to honest writing and fresh continent.
Just My Opinion, YMMV

I'm so very sad to see the Hellequin Chronicles end. I'm sure Nate is the main character. All the other characters are so compelling it's hard to tell. They way this all started and ended is night and day. If you have not read this how lucky that you can start on a miraculous journey. Never any slow spots, nothing overstated, just total bliss. Steve McHugh is over the top with research and talent. I will say you will also learn something thought provoking that just stays with you. I would have given 10 stars if allowed.

So seriously I loved the series when it first came out and the first 3 books were great but it slowly but surely became too convoluted and ridiculous to really enjoy. I read this book hoping to at least get some closure and enjoyment and honestly things were going pretty good until the added ridiculousness of the last quarter of the book where the author threw everything he'd built off track with an idiotic twist of who the bad guy was and a ploy to continue the story with no conclusion despite calling this the end of the saga. In all honesty it not for promising and then not delivering an end to the story I might have kept reading his works but that was such an obnoxious bait and switch that it's completely thrown me off the authors writing especially when combined with the fact that he can't really maintain consistency with his story.

I want to give this book 1 star because I was so angry at the end of it! I thought we’d get answers and closure and things would be partly wrapped up. But no. It’s a cliff hanger ending and really reads like part 1 of a 2 part or longer book (series.) So for that I was angry! Even not thinking it was the last book the ending was too abrupt for me. But the writing was excellent, the characters were compelling and the story held my interest throughout. So bah take your 4 stars and get back to writing the follow up.

To start with this book, seven in the Hellequin Chronicles, without having read the previous six books may have been a bit daring (even foolish) especially since this is also the last book the series. It's like seeing the last 20 min of a movie. It's interesting, but you feel like you have missed a lot of things that are mentioned. However, I must say, despite that did I find the book surprisingly easy to get into and even more surprisingly easy to keep a check on all the characters. And, trust me they are many. I think that the reason for the easiness is the fact that most of the characters are mythological ones. Both familiar names and new ones for me. But, the names stuck and I never felt a bit lost, instead was I intrigued by this absolutely fascinating mix of mythological beings in a modern setting. Also, this good vs bad story always work for me.

It's a thick book. And, yes there were moments I felt like, not necessary the story dragged out, but rather it was a lot of things to take in with Nate Garrett and Mordred hunt after the mysterious "My Liege". There were a lot of fights all through the books as they fought enemies, searched after missing friends and tried to find out the truth about the person behind the "My Liege" alias.

I definitely think this a book worth reading. However, you should probably start with book one. And, I know that this is the last book in this chronicle. However, I did get a feeling that this is not really the end...

I made two stupid mistakes when it came to this series - not discovering it sooner and starting off with the final instalment!!!! Now don't get me wrong, the author makes it perfectly possible to catch up on what has happened and I easily became obsessed with the characters and the story, but it is so good that I really wish I had started with the first book - a wrong I plan to rectify by treating myself to the other books for Christmas.

With mythical characters, new and old, action, magic, danger, and turbulent times, SCORCHED SHADOWS by Steve McHugh will transport you to another world where beneath the facade of human society, a magical world exists unknown to us, and as the battle rages the fate of the world will depend on the strength of a few.

The characters, setting, and fantasy elements are excellently handled and I easily lost myself in the pages of this book. I enjoy fantasy novels but I don't tend to read them as often as other genres, and SCORCHED SHADOWS reminded me of how absorbing and all-consuming this exquisite genre can be. If you love your stories brimming with action, tension, emotions, magic, and danger, then SCORCHED SHADOWS (and The Hellequin Chronicles Series) are a must for you!!

*I voluntarily reviewed this book from the tour organiser

If you liked the previous 6 books then this one is no surprise, just more of the same. From the the store book page "In the final chapter of the Hellequin Chronicles, secrets will be revealed, friendships tested, and destinies fulfilled." Yeah, well, not so much. See Spoiler Alert.
-2 stars for the money grubbing lies by the author advertising this as the some sort of finale" of the series.
Spoiler Alert!
The author just drops the Hellequin name and continues on Ad infinitum or should I say Ad nauseam!
Truthfully, after 6 books I was looking forward to a conclusion to the Hellequin story arc and looking for a fresh story line. Alas, not to be! A name change does not a new story make and this is just a continuum of the previous story line.
So, author off follow, last review of this series done, moving on to honest writing and fresh continent.
Just My Opinion, YMMV

I'm so very sad to see the Hellequin Chronicles end. I'm sure Nate is the main character. All the other characters are so compelling it's hard to tell. They way this all started and ended is night and day. If you have not read this how lucky that you can start on a miraculous journey. Never any slow spots, nothing overstated, just total bliss. Steve McHugh is over the top with research and talent. I will say you will also learn something thought provoking that just stays with you. I would have given 10 stars if allowed.

So seriously I loved the series when it first came out and the first 3 books were great but it slowly but surely became too convoluted and ridiculous to really enjoy. I read this book hoping to at least get some closure and enjoyment and honestly things were going pretty good until the added ridiculousness of the last quarter of the book where the author threw everything he'd built off track with an idiotic twist of who the bad guy was and a ploy to continue the story with no conclusion despite calling this the end of the saga. In all honesty it not for promising and then not delivering an end to the story I might have kept reading his works but that was such an obnoxious bait and switch that it's completely thrown me off the authors writing especially when combined with the fact that he can't really maintain consistency with his story.

I want to give this book 1 star because I was so angry at the end of it! I thought we’d get answers and closure and things would be partly wrapped up. But no. It’s a cliff hanger ending and really reads like part 1 of a 2 part or longer book (series.) So for that I was angry! Even not thinking it was the last book the ending was too abrupt for me. But the writing was excellent, the characters were compelling and the story held my interest throughout. So bah take your 4 stars and get back to writing the follow up.

The Hellequin Chronicles is one of the better fantasy series out there; I've been following since it was self published on the store with the first book of the series, and it is absolutely worth a read. Dresden files is the Gold Standard for the genre, and while Hellequin isn't quite at that level it's certainly silver medal worthy (Iron Druid series is a good comparison, and it's MUCH better than the Demon Accords or Nate Temple series)

Scorched Shadows in particular is an excellent book in the Urban Fantasy genre; not without faults, but also truly a good read and worth every penny of the price to pick it up. On display here are Mr. McHugh's signature high-level action scenes and descriptions, great humor from pop-culture references and snark, creative insults, and top-notch characterizations of individual characters. Criticisms: Mr. McHugh jumps into the action too early in the book (as he does in book 6), not fully developing the novel before getting into the meat of the story. Also, while fans of the novel were expecting resolution at the end of the book (this is the last of the Hellequin series), the ending doesn't actually provide it, as it mostly serves as the set up for a sequel series in the same universe with the same characters, but after some fundamental changes that take place here plot wise.

Mr. McHugh has created a wonderfully immersive universe with inventive, well thought-out, and consistent mythology. Nathan Garrett, as a character, is multi-faceted, complex, and infinitely relatable - but what sets Hellequin apart from other books is the deftness, subtlety, and skill with which all the other characters are written. Nearly every character, major or minor, has nuance and a level of realistic treatment that really enhance the story in particular and the universe as a whole. Unlike so many other fantasy writers, McHugh doesn't fall into a pattern of always needing a bigger, badder villain with each novel in the series - and though that pattern does show in part, he handles it well, making it an organic part of the story rather than formulaic, trite, or contrived, and has been building towards a specific end goal since book 2 rather than constantly transforming around the need for a new and more powerful villain each book. Excellent story telling, wonderful humor, top-notch action, and genuinely interesting mystery - the Hellequin Chronicles are Urban Fantasy done right, and done well. Enjoy!

A great series to follow, too bad the books are paced for release so far apart. Yea, I know good books take time to write. I'm just impatient to read the next one, now we have to wait for the start of the next series about Nate & the rest of the gang. Over-all a good paced book, plenty of action, lot of guessing as to what will happen next, some dry humor, a little romance, not sure about ending of book, seemed to leave Nate in a questionable location with everything else that was happening. Ending of Nate as Hellequin was okay, just left questions unanswered about Nate this book seemed to promise, hope the next delivers more answers.

******Warning on my review, while there are absolutely no spoilers, I do discuss some aspects of the flow of this book. So please skip if you want to be completely surprised

While not McHugh's best one, I still rank Scorched Shadows among the best urban fantasy books out there. I couldn't put it down as we finally had the curtains pulled back on the mysterious cabal that the team has been fighting. I can understand why some would be upset, do to the tag line of this book, but I have no issues with this only being the end of a story arch and not the overall story. I was actually pretty worried about the number of things that had to be wrapped up and how rushed they would be to get them all into this book, and I'm now relieved that some of the mysteries will still get the time they deserve on the pages. Overall, based on the story, I only had a few small issues with pace and plot additions, but still love this series and this book is a worthy addition. I'm also extremely happy with how much focus Mordred gets in this book, seeing the continuing evolution of his character just brings more to the world and gives us someone who is as equally fun to follow in stand alone chapters as Nate. So, to sum it up, read this book!

I rarely write reviews, but this one deserved to be talked about!

Scorched Shadows
Hellequin Chronicles, Book 7
By: Steve McHugh
Narrated by: Simon Mattacks
This book had a lot more of Mordred in it. So much was revealed in this book but this is to be the last but I still have questions....Ugh! Oh well, I guess I will have to use my imagination. I have really enjoyed this series! Recommend this to any fantasy lover out there, so good! You must read in order.
The narrator was great, very good with the multitude of voices and emotions. Well done!

This is one of the best fantasy series I have read in a very long time. This book answers questions for the reader and for Nate Garrett. It also gave the reader more information about some of the key characters surrounding Nate as well. As always there is lots of action and Nate Garret/Helliquin is in the thick of it. This is a great book and I wish the series would continue. Five stars is not enough.

I received this book in exchange for free in exchange for an honest review.

What happened to you Steve McHugh. The first books were action and had a main character. This book, "Scorched Shadows", split the time between two characters arguing among each other like childhood brothers. The pace and the set up for this book was disappointed. This is due to the other books in the series having more action than talking. This feels like it was rushed or ghost written by someone else. A must read in the series but by far the worst book of the series.

This review is for all 7 books as I read them one after another unable to stop except to sleep. I am looking forward to Nate and his friends' battle against Avalon. The characters make you care about them, hate them, or just want to bop them up side the head. You will join the fight right along with them sometimes wringing you out emotionally as much as the characters.
Enjoy!

Good book, interesting twist in concluding Hellequin.
To the people who thought the series would finish in this book, the author was already writing more books in this world.
I am just glad that Nate is going to continue to have a series where he is the main character.

Anyway, there is probably some metaphor about Hellequin being Nate incomplete so I understand having fully powered Nate as a separate series from a narrative perspective.

I usually don’t do book reviews. I know that is kind of cheating because I love to read them before buying a book to get a feeling if I may like it. I make an exception in this case, because I admire certain things in a book; and this one has it all. As the last book in the Hellequin saga, it’s going to reveal some secrets while on the other side builds up expectations for future books. It has nicely developed characters beside the main hero, a main plot with some interesting things going on on the side just to remind you, that the hero isn’t the Center of the world. Just the possibilities are stunning!

And this is where a really great author shows his potential. The series is well outlined ahead (at least in the secret files of the author) so you’re not pushed out of the story by contradictions. It has a solid piece of Humor and sarcasm just to spice it up and it shows, that the author is developing his style alongside the hero. Just like the adorable Jim Butcher with his Dresden Files.

Keep the coming, Sir! I’ll keep buying!

I've always liked these stories for how they portray mystical creatures in contemporary settings. In many ways these are better than Michael Scott.

I thought this would wrap up the storyline and as I read more, I grew worried that it was saving up,too much for the last few pages, but then I was dropped off another cliffhanger - thisnis the end for Hellequin but not Nate. Thankfully not Nate.

This is Nathan Garret’s seventh adventure, and the last book in the Hellequin series. Do not start here – go back to the beginning.

This is going to be short, and free of any plot details. It will contain sentiments that in some sense qualify as general spoilers, so consider this a quasi-warning.

The good:

McHugh’s writing continues to be excellent.
Several major mysteries of the series are addressed.
The book was engaging and interesting.

The less so:

A couple of the reveals were what I least wanted.
I despise bait and switch.
I feel like I just read a seven book prologue.

I still adore the series and highly recommend it, but I’m admittedly a bundle of mixed feelings on where things ended up right now. 5 stars for the writing, general quality, and certain plot developments. 1 star for other story elements, and other garbage. Averages out to 3.

I enjoyed all the books on audio book as I listened to them while working. I was bummed out when the narrator changed between books 5 and 6. I had to adjust to the new voices of the characters, and the fact that Jerry the American now had a strong Irish accent. There were a couple things that I was confused about that maybe I missed or there was an error. Nate's wife's name was Jane and in this last book she was called Mary is her full name Mary Jane? Also Catilan's mother I thought was a werelion and she was mentioned in this book to be a werewolf. But its nothing that took away from the overall enjoyment of the story. I cannot wait for the next book and hope there is much more to come from this world Steve has created.

I can't believe that this was the last book. I am going to miss reading of their awesome adventures. I had to wait a while before writing this review and just take it all in. So much has happened in this book that it kinda just blew my mind. But hope springs eternal and I wait baited breath for more.

SCORCHED SHADOWS(HELLEQUIN CHRONICLES #7) BY STEVE MCHUGH.

First off let me say how I was not looking forward to reading the final series book in the Hellequin Chronicles since I have read all of them and look forward to reading more! Second, this is not the end , but the beginning of something I hope is just a good as the Hellequin Chronicles.

This book answered questions not only for the reader but for Nate Garrett as well. I like that it wasnt all Nate this and Nate that but we got to learn more about some of the key characters or the "people" surrounding Nate as well. Mordred, who was a real nasty dude is actually trying to make amends and win back friends tells his side of the story.
The plot involved the humans as well as the sorcerers & "beings" that makes up Nates world. It has just as much kick ass action in it with Nate and his friends going after a group hell bent in blaming the Hellequin for all the death and destruction in our Earth realm as well as other realm's.

This one deserves more than five stars and a must read for anyone who likes the fast paced action in McHugh's books

I recieved this e book free from goodreads in exchange for an honest review.

I devoured the series but am not happy with the ending. To be honest I was getting a bit tired of the constant bouncing between two different parts of the timeline and now that it was just bouncing beteeen Nate and Mordred in present day thought we were accelerating toward the conclusion. Basically I am frustrated the next book isn't already out so I can get it on kindle unlimited. looking forward to hearing more about the new characters Mordred meets at the end and finding out why a whole new arc... at the moment I am not sold on it but will look forward to it.

What a huge disappointment. The series ended with not a single loose end tied up, and no promise of more about Nate. Author is transitioning to a new series without finishing this one. Makes me angry.

This book felt rushed and should have been broken into at least 2 books. It was tough trying to keep track of all the information, especially when the characters continually re-hashed who "My Liege" actually was. Just when the characters thought they had it all figured out, My Liege turned out to be someone different, but the twist felt forced, like the author was trying to pull a fast one that didn't work.
In general the characters seemed more watered down in this book, with everyone suddenly getting in touch with their feelings with the constant "Are you okay?" questions. "Are you okay?" "Yes, but I should be asking you that question." "How you doing?" Once or twice a chapter we'd go through this. If I wanted to know how a character felt, I would pick up Fifty Shades of Grey!
Overall this was a great series but the last 2 books lost a bit of focus.

I downloaded the first book on a whim, and was pleasantly surprised! This series is far outside anything I would typically read, but the first book was so interesting that it lured me in. Plenty of action and plot twists- I will be looking for more from this author.

At first I wasn't interested, then I became vested in the characters. I enjoy reading about their personalities and quirks. I would definitely recommend reading these books. Thank you for writing them, I enjoyed them

I've enjoyed the Hellequin series and was a big fan of the earlier books. Steve McHugh's Hellequin/Nate Garrett Chronicles joined my reading list of Ilona Andrews Kate Daniels / Hidden Legacy, Jim Butcher's Dresden Files, Kevin Hearne's Iron Druid, John Conroe's Demon Accords, and Simon Green's Nightside and Sercet History series..

This was suppose to be the end of the series but be warned, its really a continuation. *Spoiler alert*
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Nate's character undergoes a transformation which makes this "the end" of the Hellequin Chronicles and he will be part of the Avalon chronicles next. Quite a fake premise. I had enjoyed the series so far but the false advertising is quite a turn off. The book itself gives Mordred a lot of pages which I actually liked, but it even more shows how "gimmicky" it would be to call this an "ending". I tire of authors trying to get the next $ through trickery. If you are a good author, and I do believe Mr McHugh is a good author, you don't need to resort to gimmicks. I paid $4.99 for the "ending" and feel quite disappointed. I will be removing Steve McHugh from my author list.

Steve delivered another action packed Hellequin story. I don't think it was quite as good as book 6, but definitely worth reading and adding to your library. If you haven't read the series, you should. Steve has built a fascinating world and populated it with interesting characters.

Loved the last book in this series. I can't wait to read more about Nate Garret in whatever capacity Steve continues to include him in. Great book. Start the series if you haven't, you won't regret it.

Loved the story and can’t wait to find out what happens next! I may go back and read a second time just to get all the character story lines straight again. Lots going on with many different people. Loved every minute.

This book deserves more than a 5 star rating. I have read all 7 of the books in this series and I was looking forward to the final book. This is the end of Hellequin but not Nate Garrett. There is so much more that has to be told about Nate. He is now in a small town in Oregon, I won't say why. If you like this genre, you just have to read this seven book series. I know I will be looking for the next book by Mr. McHugh. Hopefully I won't have to wait very long for another book by this extremely talented writer.

Another great story in The Hellequin Chronicles from the oh so wonderful Steve McHugh!

Nate is his usual smart alec self in this book, working with his friends to bring down the corruption within Avalon.

But wow, are things a mess in this book! My Liege is attacking all over the world. Nate's Hellequin is taking the blame though an impostor. And Nate and friends have no idea who is on their side, or who this My Liege is so they can bring them down. Unfortunately throughout the fighting some friends are lost, and Avalon becomes a huge, huge threat to any realm within it's reach. I am so, so eager for A Glimmer of Hope to see how this story continues. The Hellequin chronicles may be over, but Nate will continue on, and I can't wait to read more!

Great series.....no end and no title to look for!
I'm tired of getting debated by authors who drop a character in the middle of a mess then leave the reader with no conclusion while they go off and write different stories and characters!
They never go back and finish the story line!
I'm going to start giving one star to everyone who does this from now on! You want more stars? And if course more money as I buy more of your books? Finish what you start!
Darn it!
If swear but the store wouldn't like it.

Authors and readers engage in a relationship of sorts. Trust is required in all relationships. The ending of this book violates trust in an annoying and stunningly juvenile way. This "series ending" book brings exactly zero closure. While perhaps lucrative to the author, it is a disingenuous way to treat readers.

I made two stupid mistakes when it came to this series - not discovering it sooner and starting off with the final instalment!!!! Now don't get me wrong, the author makes it perfectly possible to catch up on what has happened and I easily became obsessed with the characters and the story, but it is so good that I really wish I had started with the first book - a wrong I plan to rectify by treating myself to the other books for Christmas.

With mythical characters, new and old, action, magic, danger, and turbulent times, SCORCHED SHADOWS by Steve McHugh will transport you to another world where beneath the facade of human society, a magical world exists unknown to us, and as the battle rages the fate of the world will depend on the strength of a few.

The characters, setting, and fantasy elements are excellently handled and I easily lost myself in the pages of this book. I enjoy fantasy novels but I don't tend to read them as often as other genres, and SCORCHED SHADOWS reminded me of how absorbing and all-consuming this exquisite genre can be. If you love your stories brimming with action, tension, emotions, magic, and danger, then SCORCHED SHADOWS (and The Hellequin Chronicles Series) are a must for you!!

*I voluntarily reviewed this book from the tour organiser

I usually don’t do book reviews. I know that is kind of cheating because I love to read them before buying a book to get a feeling if I may like it. I make an exception in this case, because I admire certain things in a book; and this one has it all. As the last book in the Hellequin saga, it’s going to reveal some secrets while on the other side builds up expectations for future books. It has nicely developed characters beside the main hero, a main plot with some interesting things going on on the side just to remind you, that the hero isn’t the Center of the world. Just the possibilities are stunning!

And this is where a really great author shows his potential. The series is well outlined ahead (at least in the secret files of the author) so you’re not pushed out of the story by contradictions. It has a solid piece of Humor and sarcasm just to spice it up and it shows, that the author is developing his style alongside the hero. Just like the adorable Jim Butcher with his Dresden Files.

Keep the coming, Sir! I’ll keep buying!

The fact that this series was able to contain so many legendary characters, and weave them together was pure magic. I happened upon this series and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I would like to compare it to Dresden files, but that would be unfair to this series... more depth and more twists with hellequin. And the references to the supernatural series was a very nice touch. Bravo