Promise of Vipers — Steve McHugh

Political plots, ancient foes, and old grudges lead Lucas Rurik on a dangerous mission through the Rift in the fourth book of this thrilling urban fantasy.Lucas Rurik, sole living member of the Raven Guild, hoped that killing the deranged Dr. Callie Mitchell would end her plot to stir up trouble between the Rift and Earth, bringing peace to both lands. And it did—for exactly three weeks, four days, seventeen hours, and eleven minutes. But then it all went to hell.Two years later, things still haven’t gotten much better. Tears of rift energy are slashing through the sky much more frequently—and more powerfully—than ever before, unleashing all sorts of new fiends and horrors upon the world. And just as Lucas thinks he’s uncovered an important clue as to what’s been causing the chaos, he’s dragged back into the Rift to make good on an old favor and help hunt down someone who’s been destroying riftborn settlements.Now Lucas must contend with governmental conspiracies involving Earthly cults, dangerous coups orchestrated by ancient powers, and heartrending secrets kept by those he most trusts—and fast. Because it seems there’s a new guild on the rise. And it’s members are intent on eliminating the Raven Guild once and for all . . .Praise for The Last Raven“McHugh’s pithy prose energizes the narrative, even when there’s no superpower on display, and builds intrigue with gradual reveals of Lucas’ rift-derived skills and backstory. This slick introductory supernatural tale will leave readers eager for a sequel.” —Kirkus Reviews“The Last Raven has the appeal of a great action movie. There is a nice mystery, a compelling lead, strong support, and enough adrenaline to leave you with a pleasant high afterward. . . . Eagerly looking forward to the next installment.” —The Cosmic Circus  “If you have a friend who loves both speculative fiction novels and thrillers, this is the perfect gift.” —Medium, “10 Chilling Books for Mystery/Thriller Lovers This Winter”