The Starry-Eyed Revue

You had me at gargoyles.
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Actual Rating:  1/2

Gargoyles!  That's the only word I needed to see in the summary to know that I had to read this book.  And then, I immediately started picturing this:




What?  You didn't?  :P  In all seriousness, I'm usually a little squeamish about inter, um, species (?) relationships in books...I mean, how would that even work?  Especially since the gargoyle in his true form lacks any reproductive organs.  ;0)

Now that that's out there...I kind of loved this novel.  It takes place right at the turn of the century, in beautiful Par-ee (that's Paris for those of you who don't speak French), and though I've never been to The City of Light myself, it wasn't hard to imagine myself there among les grotesques, basking in the beauty and the culture, while hoping that this missing brother turned up unharmed.



This book was everything I was hoping for and more.  From the sometimes complicated relationship between siblings to the history of the gargoyles in Paris, I was utterly captivated.  Throw in shape-shifting gargoyles, a secret alliance that keeps their existence hidden, and crazy underworld magic, and I am a very happy girl.  I'm usually iffy when it comes to multiple third person perspectives because they tend to give away too many secrets while providing glimpses at each characters circumstances, but I rather enjoyed reading from Ingrid, Gabby, Luc, and yes, even Grayson's point-of-view.  Though, Luc was probably my favorite because he was such a tortured soul...I have a soft spot for characters that cling to their guilt and the remorse that comes with it.  Also, I loved his fierce protectiveness.

There is some swooning to be had from this book, as well...no chaste pecks on the cheek or hand, despite the time period.  It nicely counteracts the ugliness of the situation but doesn't detract from the overall plot.  But I feel I must warn you that a love triangle is afoot, if all indications prove to be true.  I hope that doesn't come to fruition, though.  It's the standard safe choice versus dangerous and brooding guy, and you can probably guess which one Ingrid is leaning toward.  Her sister Gabby, on the other hand, has no such decision to make.  If only she didn't love to hate her own swoon-worthy rogue.  *sigh*



Above all else, I loved the lush use of descriptive imagery, from the way the author describes the physical attributes of the gargoyles to the way she depicts their shifts.  The book cover immediately grabbed my attention.  The mention of gargoyles held it.  But the writing ensured that I will be back for more of this beautiful story and its tragic characters.  And that I'm going to be pestering the husband for a trip to Paris for months to come.


Thanks to Random House for providing an ARC for review!

This review can also be found at The Starry-Eyed Revue.