ARC Review: A Glimmer of Hope by Steve McHugh

From Steve McHugh, the bestselling author of The Hellequin Chronicles, comes a new urban fantasy series packed with mystery, action, and, above all, magic.

Layla Cassidy has always wanted a normal life, and the chance to put her father’s brutal legacy behind her. And in her final year of university she’s finally found it. Or so she thinks.

But when Layla accidentally activates an ancient scroll, she is bestowed with an incredible, inhuman power. She plunges into a dangerous new world, full of mythical creatures and menace—all while a group of fanatics will stop at nothing to turn her abilities to their cause.

To protect those she loves most, Layla must take control of her new powers…before they destroy her. All is not yet lost—there is a light shining, but Layla must survive long enough to see it.

**ARC provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review**

I'm always on the lookout for a new Urban Fantasy series to read, and when I read the blurb of A Glimmer of Hope I was intrigued. The thing with first books in a new series is, that there is a lot of information you have to take in as a reader. You are introduced to a new world and have to get used to the writing style of the author. I liked the beginning and was looking forward to seeing what would happen to Layla. She is attacked and brought in front of a mythical creature. From there on she is introduced to a new 'secret' world on earth. While she tries to escape she accidentally becomes a vessel for spirits, which includes having inhuman powers.

Around 35% I still hadn't been able to fully get into the story. There was a lot going on and the world didn't pique my interest as much as I thought it would. As a reader you are introduced to so many characters, which in my opinion slowed down the story a bit. However, the author came up with a very interesting and original world and story. I think the story will pick up more in the upcoming books, and I do want to find out what Layla will go up against next. I am also looking forward to seeing her grow as a character. So there is a high chance that I'll continue this series to see what the author has in store for us.

The Avalon Chronicles book 2 & 3 are up for preorder

 

Jul 3, 2018                                 Oct 23, 2018

                                   

Steve's been writing from an early age, his first completed story was done in an English lesson. Unfortunately, after the teacher read it, he had to have a chat with the head of the year about the violent content and bad language. The follow up 'One boy and his frog' was less concerning to his teachers and got him an A.

It wasn't for another decade that he would start work on a full length novel, the result of which; Crimes Against Magic is now available from Amazon.

He 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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