Magic of the Gargoyles by Rebecca Chastain

A mid-level earth elemental reaches down deep into her very soul to pull out a win against those that abuse mythical creatures. Go Mika!

FTC Notice: This book was provided free in exchange for an honest review. This is no way impacts my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

Title: Magic of the Gargoyles
Author: Rebecca Chastain
Series: Guardian Gargoyle Chronicles
Publish Date: October 20, 2014
Genre: Fantasy
Source: Provided by the author

Publisher’s Description: Mika is a mid-level earth elemental with ambitions of becoming a quartz artisan, and her hard work is starting to get noticed. But when a panicked baby gargoyle insists Mika is the only person she’ll trust with her desperate mission, Mika must jeopardize everything she’s worked so hard for to save the baby gargoyle from the machinations of a monster—and to stay alive…

Nervous Nellie’s nervousness necessitates knowledge of the novel (or, in other words, SPOILERS).

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Nervous Nellie says…

This is a fantasy story that incorporates a lot of magic and mythical creatures. There is no sex, lots magical violence and an echo of serious animal abuse. Prepare for righteous indignation at the villainous treatment of baby gargoyles.

This is a novella length story where Mika has to reach down deep in order to work up the courage and resources to save five little gargoyle hatchlings. This story parallels our world as well so be prepared if you are a serious animal lover.

There is success for the downtrodden heroine and a happy ending for the babies. It’s a good story to spend an afternoon reading.

Invested Ivana says…

What drew me to this book: Saving baby gargoyles! I’m up for any book about saving animals, mythical or real, from horribly abusive humans. I’m also a fan of the author’s Madison Fox series.

Why I kept reading: It’s been a while since I’ve read a Rebecca Chastain novel, and I forgot how much I enjoy her writing. Like in the Fox series, the voice in Magic of the Gargoyles is clear and sweet; it’s glossy as opposed to gritty. There’s a lightheartedness to the stories, even though serious things do happen; and there is always humor.

The magic system Chastain creates is well thought-out and a lot of fun. Magic is based on the four elements; each element is good for doing different things. Mika is only a mid-level magic worker, but is particularly adept at working with quartz. Kylie’s magic is air based; I adore how she uses it to support her aspirations as a journalist. While the idea of elemental magic is not new in fantasy, it’s always fun to see how different authors will use the idea of the elements to create practical magic.

Chastain creates some lovable characters. I’m already attached to Mika, Kylie, and the baby gargoyles. Also like Fox, Mika is a normal “everygal” who discovers she has a rare talent. She’s not perfect, but does her best for the people around her. These are the kinds of characters to whom we can all relate.

Why I recommend it: Magic of the Gargoyles is a tenderhearted novella that will leave you with a warm fuzzy feeling. It’s a great choice if you’re feeling sad or want a change from the gritty urban fantasy. I enjoyed it quite a lot and am happy there will be more stories to come about Mika, Kylie, and the gargoyles.

Other reviews in this series…

• Magic of the Gargoyles, Book 01
• Curse of the Gargoyles, Book 02
• Secret of the Gargoyles, Book 03

Other reviews…

• Books that Hook
• Feeling Fictional
• Laurie’s Paranormal Thoughts and Reviews

If you like this book…

For other adorable gargoyles and great stories, try the Allie Beckstrom series by Devon Monk, the Black Wings series by Christina Henry, and the Hollows by Kim Harrison.

FTC Notice: This book was provided free in exchange for an honest review. This is no way impacts my opinion of the book or the content of my review.