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Mercy, A Gargoyle Story
My will to survive is the first thing to drown.
I know, because I hold it under myself.
After facing severe tragedy in life, Madeline assumes her death will be easy.
But the angels do not come to take her to Heaven.
Instead, what retrieves her is something she never expected: a gargoyle.
Delivered to Truce, the King of the Gargoyles, Madeline now has choices she never wanted. She has the ability to take over the entire Gargoyle Kingdom, if she is willing to kill the king. However, looking to prevent takeover, Truce transforms Madeline, thereby granting her the ability to achieve the thing she wants most—death—if she can just find the human recipient for the Gargoyle Gift that she now has to give. It should be easy.
But lives, whether they are lived or not, are seldom simple, and Madeline’s past still stands in her way. Now, only a voyeur in the life of The Boy with the Golden Rod Voice, Madeline’s must reconcile her own life and death, if she ever hopes to have free reign of her soul.
I know, because I hold it under myself.
After facing severe tragedy in life, Madeline assumes her death will be easy.
But the angels do not come to take her to Heaven.
Instead, what retrieves her is something she never expected: a gargoyle.
Delivered to Truce, the King of the Gargoyles, Madeline now has choices she never wanted. She has the ability to take over the entire Gargoyle Kingdom, if she is willing to kill the king. However, looking to prevent takeover, Truce transforms Madeline, thereby granting her the ability to achieve the thing she wants most—death—if she can just find the human recipient for the Gargoyle Gift that she now has to give. It should be easy.
But lives, whether they are lived or not, are seldom simple, and Madeline’s past still stands in her way. Now, only a voyeur in the life of The Boy with the Golden Rod Voice, Madeline’s must reconcile her own life and death, if she ever hopes to have free reign of her soul.
ebook
First published December 1, 2010
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About the author
Misty Provencher
38 books333 followersMisty Provencher offers readers a shelf full of stories to enjoy.
Writing under Misty Provencher, her young adult genres include stories dealing in fantasy, including magic, sci-fi, vampires, shifters, and dark fantasy.
Writing under Misty Paquette, adult readers will enjoy contemporary beach-read romances, based-on-true event stories, a romantic 80s mystery, and even a sci-fantasy.
While Provencher can ride a motorcycle, knows how to Karate chop, and has learned enough French, Spanish, and Sign Language to get herself slapped, Misty's life is dedicated to connecting with, and understanding, the people who cross her path. She is totally enchanted with the world and spends her days trying to translate her everyday muses into words.
Misty Provencher lives in the Mitten. Knock on her internet blog door at www.mistyprovencherauthor.com and wherever great coffee is sold.
Writing under Misty Provencher, her young adult genres include stories dealing in fantasy, including magic, sci-fi, vampires, shifters, and dark fantasy.
Writing under Misty Paquette, adult readers will enjoy contemporary beach-read romances, based-on-true event stories, a romantic 80s mystery, and even a sci-fantasy.
While Provencher can ride a motorcycle, knows how to Karate chop, and has learned enough French, Spanish, and Sign Language to get herself slapped, Misty's life is dedicated to connecting with, and understanding, the people who cross her path. She is totally enchanted with the world and spends her days trying to translate her everyday muses into words.
Misty Provencher lives in the Mitten. Knock on her internet blog door at www.mistyprovencherauthor.com and wherever great coffee is sold.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
September 22, 2014
On a second thought: 4 STARS
this is one of those books that delaying the review would only do harm. I'll explain in a bit, but before...
3 stars, and only because I'm really torn in here. I loved this book, I really did. but at the same time there were too many things that didn't quite work for me.
the reason for the urgency to write a review upon finishing the book is, simply put, the emotions I experienced while reading it. the longer I'll wait, the harder it will be to pour it down to words.
so...what didn't work? simply, the love (at the ending), and the whole part about the Gargoyles. it was just SO confusing, I didn't understand how it worked, I would have loved more explaining and myth on that part (I understand that they were used as a tool to gain the clarity with which things were revealed to us as well as to Maddy, I do, but that doesn't stop me from wanting them to be a solid well explained instrument), also, too many times there were confusing lines, times I was fighting to understand what was said and what was going on, and more importantly what was MEANT. I can't say that the confusion is all cleared out by the end, but if you stick around long enough then, eventually, you'll discover you've gotten used to it and it does not disturb you that much anymore. the question is whether you can, personally, I think you SHOULD. (as i shall explain).
WHAT I LIKED, EVEN LOVED:
first of all, Maddy, her story was heart breaking, het life were tough, and yet she was full of compassion that I couldn't help but love her.
also, regarding Maddy, as the story unfolds she wises up.
second, Truce's story, his love, his guilt, his emotions and fears. He was intruiging.
third, the Gargoyles, so ugly , yet, so fragile, some very kind, harboring their humanity with a lesson they missed and needed to learn.
fourth, the story, Misty Provencher manages to write something different, she's thinking outside the box, in fact so outside and so different that i have never encountered something like that before.
Last but not Least, Misty Provencher's writing is Amazing. it's truly beautiful, and the feelings that overwhelm Maddy are flying through the pages straight to your heart.
there were many lines I loved (as you can see at the end of this review).
I also would like to state that despite the story being different, unique, and extraordinary in it's core it's about people, emotions, relationships and love. And from my experience that seems to be the important part in any story.
the capacity to love and be loved, the way feelings can fill you, how sometimes something ugly is not so ugly once you love it. the fact that sometimes even though you love so deeply, your feelings are not returned (no matter how hot, smart, kind or absoultely fantastic you are), or the burden of being loved by someone more then you love that someone back, because sometimes you just don't feel it. while another times it strikes like lightning, unexplained. Feelings are the same for everyone, and as a result different incidents may evoke the very same feelings inside us- two people would feel grieve, pain and sorrow over different things in life, yet the feeling shall unite them. also the many ocassions that guilt rises deep within, eating us alive.
In the end of the day it is a story about love, guilt, feelings, people and the will to live even when we think we lost it.
as such a story it is beautiful and well worth the read.
so I plead, i know, I rated it only 3 Stars, but these stars has such a deeper meaning, they are better then 5 Stars on this very rare occasion. I plead you, read this story...
a little teaser:
and I suddenly want [her] to love him. I want her to tell him not to do anything foolish. I want her to wrap him in her arms and say the everything will be okay, that she could love him, that she would try. I want this moment to be the fairy tale ending that begins a perfect new life for them, where this ordinary boy learns how to be a prince and this everyday princess falls for him.
and the ashen snow falling on my heart become an avalanche. I see The Boy as something I never have before. as Just a boy. He's the same as any body who eats, talks....He's just a boy who liked me, but didn't love me, and didn't know how else to tell me.
"I would love you for the heart that you opened up once, and gave away. I would love you enough to hope that you would find love again. I would endeavor myself worthy of you, even if you choose to never give it again all the same."
"I have been loved more then I have loved. I have not loved someone else more than I have loved myself. it's a pleasure of the living, to love."
"people love to varying degrees and it is not a sin, but certainly a shame, that I was not a more worthy competitor for [her]....that I didn't love her as much doesn't mean that I didn't love her at all."
The song cascades from the open window and twist into a beautiful, jealous tune of worship, about a lover who realized that the thing they treasured wasn't such a treasure at all. it is a horrible love song, but it's still a love song.
I left a long dark mark
Across your heart
And let your light be dim
So no one but I,
With such eager eyes
Would come to look within
The golden fleece in the boy's voice will probably thin out beneath the spotlight and the boy will whisper my name like he doesn't know me at all. "Madeline?"
The sergeant will give it a minute to sink in and say, "That's right. what do you know about her?"
"Nothing. Absolutely nothing," is what the boy will answer. It's his one last chance to be cruel. And honest.
this is one of those books that delaying the review would only do harm. I'll explain in a bit, but before...
3 stars, and only because I'm really torn in here. I loved this book, I really did. but at the same time there were too many things that didn't quite work for me.
the reason for the urgency to write a review upon finishing the book is, simply put, the emotions I experienced while reading it. the longer I'll wait, the harder it will be to pour it down to words.
so...what didn't work? simply, the love (at the ending), and the whole part about the Gargoyles. it was just SO confusing, I didn't understand how it worked, I would have loved more explaining and myth on that part (I understand that they were used as a tool to gain the clarity with which things were revealed to us as well as to Maddy, I do, but that doesn't stop me from wanting them to be a solid well explained instrument), also, too many times there were confusing lines, times I was fighting to understand what was said and what was going on, and more importantly what was MEANT. I can't say that the confusion is all cleared out by the end, but if you stick around long enough then, eventually, you'll discover you've gotten used to it and it does not disturb you that much anymore. the question is whether you can, personally, I think you SHOULD. (as i shall explain).
WHAT I LIKED, EVEN LOVED:
first of all, Maddy, her story was heart breaking, het life were tough, and yet she was full of compassion that I couldn't help but love her.
also, regarding Maddy, as the story unfolds she wises up.
second, Truce's story, his love, his guilt, his emotions and fears. He was intruiging.
third, the Gargoyles, so ugly , yet, so fragile, some very kind, harboring their humanity with a lesson they missed and needed to learn.
fourth, the story, Misty Provencher manages to write something different, she's thinking outside the box, in fact so outside and so different that i have never encountered something like that before.
Last but not Least, Misty Provencher's writing is Amazing. it's truly beautiful, and the feelings that overwhelm Maddy are flying through the pages straight to your heart.
there were many lines I loved (as you can see at the end of this review).
I also would like to state that despite the story being different, unique, and extraordinary in it's core it's about people, emotions, relationships and love. And from my experience that seems to be the important part in any story.
the capacity to love and be loved, the way feelings can fill you, how sometimes something ugly is not so ugly once you love it. the fact that sometimes even though you love so deeply, your feelings are not returned (no matter how hot, smart, kind or absoultely fantastic you are), or the burden of being loved by someone more then you love that someone back, because sometimes you just don't feel it. while another times it strikes like lightning, unexplained. Feelings are the same for everyone, and as a result different incidents may evoke the very same feelings inside us- two people would feel grieve, pain and sorrow over different things in life, yet the feeling shall unite them. also the many ocassions that guilt rises deep within, eating us alive.
In the end of the day it is a story about love, guilt, feelings, people and the will to live even when we think we lost it.
as such a story it is beautiful and well worth the read.
so I plead, i know, I rated it only 3 Stars, but these stars has such a deeper meaning, they are better then 5 Stars on this very rare occasion. I plead you, read this story...
a little teaser:
and I suddenly want [her] to love him. I want her to tell him not to do anything foolish. I want her to wrap him in her arms and say the everything will be okay, that she could love him, that she would try. I want this moment to be the fairy tale ending that begins a perfect new life for them, where this ordinary boy learns how to be a prince and this everyday princess falls for him.
and the ashen snow falling on my heart become an avalanche. I see The Boy as something I never have before. as Just a boy. He's the same as any body who eats, talks....He's just a boy who liked me, but didn't love me, and didn't know how else to tell me.
"I would love you for the heart that you opened up once, and gave away. I would love you enough to hope that you would find love again. I would endeavor myself worthy of you, even if you choose to never give it again all the same."
"I have been loved more then I have loved. I have not loved someone else more than I have loved myself. it's a pleasure of the living, to love."
"people love to varying degrees and it is not a sin, but certainly a shame, that I was not a more worthy competitor for [her]....that I didn't love her as much doesn't mean that I didn't love her at all."
The song cascades from the open window and twist into a beautiful, jealous tune of worship, about a lover who realized that the thing they treasured wasn't such a treasure at all. it is a horrible love song, but it's still a love song.
I left a long dark mark
Across your heart
And let your light be dim
So no one but I,
With such eager eyes
Would come to look within
The golden fleece in the boy's voice will probably thin out beneath the spotlight and the boy will whisper my name like he doesn't know me at all. "Madeline?"
The sergeant will give it a minute to sink in and say, "That's right. what do you know about her?"
"Nothing. Absolutely nothing," is what the boy will answer. It's his one last chance to be cruel. And honest.
December 7, 2012
I have to say first that I just love gargoyles. I think they are wicked, sinister, unique and intriguing statues. Protectors of their domain sitting high atop of their buildings. They are just plain fascinating to look at.
So, when Misty Provencher started telling us about her new dark fantasy coming with the premise around gargoyles, I admit...EXCITED!!
Then, cover reveal...Oh yeah, I was stoked seeing this cover because it just started to bring to life the thrill of these statues. So, I was eagerly awaiting to see what tale Misty was going to weave with these mysterious little beings.
And now...Book in hand, open to chapter one, and I am sinking in to the illustrious darkness that Misty has brought to us. I mean, WOW!! We begin Mercy with submerging ourselves in to the death of Madeline and it is not an easy one to travel through. But, we see what she is experiencing and hear her thoughts as she is relinquishing herself over to death. BUT, it somehow evades her and we are introduced to a little winged creature that snatches her up and drops her in front of the Gargoyle King.
What does this all entail for Madeline? Why was she so ready to die? These questions were right there, forefront in my mind while I was reading, hanging on to each word, each dialog to find my answers. Oh, but, Misty knows how to keep us twisted in knots, squirming to know more, shocked to find out new twists, and ultimately BLOWN AWAY at how it all comes together at the end.
There are so many details that if I divulge any right here, it will give something away and Mercy is a book that YOU HAVE TO READ!!
Madeline is such a fantastic character. We see her transpire through soooo much in this book, that when I reached the end, I was ecstatic to see her growth. To see her in one light at the beginning and then a whole different, better one at the end...pure brilliance on Misty's writing ability. Having connected to Madeline, emotionally, mentally, you gain an understanding of everything she endured, how she processed what happened to her, and how she ultimately dealt with the events and situations placed before her.
And don't let me forget to mention the fascinating, alluring lore of the gargoyles. Misty created a refreshing, exotic, dark, compelling world centered around the mysticism of these gruesome creatures.
I don't know if I am doing this book justice. I absolutely LOVED Mercy. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND that you add it to your TBR/TRL. A DEFINITE MUST READ!!!
www.tsktskwhattoread2.blogspot.com
So, when Misty Provencher started telling us about her new dark fantasy coming with the premise around gargoyles, I admit...EXCITED!!
Then, cover reveal...Oh yeah, I was stoked seeing this cover because it just started to bring to life the thrill of these statues. So, I was eagerly awaiting to see what tale Misty was going to weave with these mysterious little beings.
And now...Book in hand, open to chapter one, and I am sinking in to the illustrious darkness that Misty has brought to us. I mean, WOW!! We begin Mercy with submerging ourselves in to the death of Madeline and it is not an easy one to travel through. But, we see what she is experiencing and hear her thoughts as she is relinquishing herself over to death. BUT, it somehow evades her and we are introduced to a little winged creature that snatches her up and drops her in front of the Gargoyle King.
What does this all entail for Madeline? Why was she so ready to die? These questions were right there, forefront in my mind while I was reading, hanging on to each word, each dialog to find my answers. Oh, but, Misty knows how to keep us twisted in knots, squirming to know more, shocked to find out new twists, and ultimately BLOWN AWAY at how it all comes together at the end.
There are so many details that if I divulge any right here, it will give something away and Mercy is a book that YOU HAVE TO READ!!
Madeline is such a fantastic character. We see her transpire through soooo much in this book, that when I reached the end, I was ecstatic to see her growth. To see her in one light at the beginning and then a whole different, better one at the end...pure brilliance on Misty's writing ability. Having connected to Madeline, emotionally, mentally, you gain an understanding of everything she endured, how she processed what happened to her, and how she ultimately dealt with the events and situations placed before her.
And don't let me forget to mention the fascinating, alluring lore of the gargoyles. Misty created a refreshing, exotic, dark, compelling world centered around the mysticism of these gruesome creatures.
I don't know if I am doing this book justice. I absolutely LOVED Mercy. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND that you add it to your TBR/TRL. A DEFINITE MUST READ!!!
www.tsktskwhattoread2.blogspot.com
December 17, 2012
Let me start by saying that this book is not for everyone, and I believe the author is aware of that fact. However, it is extremely well written, and very different from anything Misty has done previously. She goes so far outside the box that the box is no longer visible.
Madeline is driven to a dark place, she cannot see past this darkness and it consumes her. She believes that she will find peace by ending her life, but instead she finds that one does not necessarily escape their choices that easily.
We watch Madeline go through the painful process of facing who she was, the choices she made bringing her to the desperate place causing her to take her own life. She has to come to terms with what she has become, and figure out how to fly. Learning to see past what she could not in life will be the key to moving forward.
Misty writes about such raw pain, and it makes me wonder if some of the "ugliness" of the gargoyles isn't representation of the ugliness and pain that was in their previous lives. I do believe that the book shows that there is hope, even when there does not appear to be any, and that the seed of hope can come from the most unlikely of events.
As always, I'm not going to go too much deeper into my thoughts because I believe that a reader should experience the book fresh and feel what the author intends you to feel.
What I enjoyed about the book was how I could relate to the story. Not so much as I've been where Madeline has been, but everyone goes through heartbreak, and at a young age it can be devastating.
What I didn't like is that it ended where it did. I wanted it to go on just a bit longer, but then I'm greedy like that.
All-in-all, this book made me think, and I love it when books do that! I thoroughly enjoyed it and would recommend it to anyone who can deal with such depths of pain.
Misty - I will never look at a Gargoyle the same way again!
Madeline is driven to a dark place, she cannot see past this darkness and it consumes her. She believes that she will find peace by ending her life, but instead she finds that one does not necessarily escape their choices that easily.
We watch Madeline go through the painful process of facing who she was, the choices she made bringing her to the desperate place causing her to take her own life. She has to come to terms with what she has become, and figure out how to fly. Learning to see past what she could not in life will be the key to moving forward.
Misty writes about such raw pain, and it makes me wonder if some of the "ugliness" of the gargoyles isn't representation of the ugliness and pain that was in their previous lives. I do believe that the book shows that there is hope, even when there does not appear to be any, and that the seed of hope can come from the most unlikely of events.
As always, I'm not going to go too much deeper into my thoughts because I believe that a reader should experience the book fresh and feel what the author intends you to feel.
What I enjoyed about the book was how I could relate to the story. Not so much as I've been where Madeline has been, but everyone goes through heartbreak, and at a young age it can be devastating.
What I didn't like is that it ended where it did. I wanted it to go on just a bit longer, but then I'm greedy like that.
All-in-all, this book made me think, and I love it when books do that! I thoroughly enjoyed it and would recommend it to anyone who can deal with such depths of pain.
Misty - I will never look at a Gargoyle the same way again!
June 24, 2015
This book was not at all what I expected. It was SO much more...
"My will to survive is the first thing to drown. I know because I hold it under myself."
Madeline is a tortured girl who has been through hell. Looking to end her torment and finally find some peace, she decides to kill herself. Unfortunately, Madeline cannot catch a freaking break, and ends up becoming a "Slip"- someone who has slipped through the heavenly cracks. No one came to save her, and no Angels came to guide her into that coveted peace.... So Madeline becomes a gargoyle. I loved the way Misty has created the gargoyles in this story. I've never heard them portrayed this way and frankly, I thought it was genius. They're hideous, flawed creatures with a noble purpose.
"Ugly understands the world because it has nothing to stare at in the mirror."
I loved everything about this book; the wonderfully horrible characters, the unique paranormal twist, the very real, heart-breaking struggles it talks about, the dark, gritty atmosphere it drags you into... It is also the most beautifully written thing I have come across in a very long time.
I thought this was just going to be another interesting fantasy read, but what I discovered was a rare gem that made me really think deeply about life. The paranormal aspect is really just a backdrop for this intense, life-changing story about human weakness, and the struggle to find our own hidden strength.
"What I see are the stars, little aluminum shavings drifting in the deep blue of the midnight sky, sparkling like all they want in the world is for me to see them.
And I do.
I finally do."
I am truly glad that I found this book. I am not the same after reading it, and I'm grateful for its existence.
"My will to survive is the first thing to drown. I know because I hold it under myself."
Madeline is a tortured girl who has been through hell. Looking to end her torment and finally find some peace, she decides to kill herself. Unfortunately, Madeline cannot catch a freaking break, and ends up becoming a "Slip"- someone who has slipped through the heavenly cracks. No one came to save her, and no Angels came to guide her into that coveted peace.... So Madeline becomes a gargoyle. I loved the way Misty has created the gargoyles in this story. I've never heard them portrayed this way and frankly, I thought it was genius. They're hideous, flawed creatures with a noble purpose.
"Ugly understands the world because it has nothing to stare at in the mirror."
I loved everything about this book; the wonderfully horrible characters, the unique paranormal twist, the very real, heart-breaking struggles it talks about, the dark, gritty atmosphere it drags you into... It is also the most beautifully written thing I have come across in a very long time.
I thought this was just going to be another interesting fantasy read, but what I discovered was a rare gem that made me really think deeply about life. The paranormal aspect is really just a backdrop for this intense, life-changing story about human weakness, and the struggle to find our own hidden strength.
"What I see are the stars, little aluminum shavings drifting in the deep blue of the midnight sky, sparkling like all they want in the world is for me to see them.
And I do.
I finally do."
I am truly glad that I found this book. I am not the same after reading it, and I'm grateful for its existence.
December 25, 2012
I am reeling from just finishing this book. My eyes are wet and I want to cry some more. The words are I'm trying to type are having an extremely difficult time coming out to explain how I feel. Please bare with me...
From the very first page I felt as if I was transported to another place and another time. It flowed like a poem. Please be patient as it does give you allot of information that you do not understand at first. However, hang tight, because you do get there and you completely start to get it and see the flow and understanding of what Misty presents.
Mercy had so many different meanings & layers throughout the whole book. There is so much to take from it. You have a girl who is so desperate to have love and be loved. Who went through a horrific experience, to be thrown out and feel so desperate that she would throw her own life away and beg to die. I found myself heartbroken for this poor beautiful girl that truly had know one to love her. That saw her surface, her beauty as the only redeeming quality. I'm not sure I have felt such rawness and pain in a book that made me feel in "the" moment. Misty does not sugarcoat things. She lays them all out for you and makes you feel.
This is such a different and unique and beautifully written book. I'm sorry if my review is not helpful to you. I may have to come back and revise after I have had more time to think about it. I highly recommend it and I do believe you will take something from it as I have!
From the very first page I felt as if I was transported to another place and another time. It flowed like a poem. Please be patient as it does give you allot of information that you do not understand at first. However, hang tight, because you do get there and you completely start to get it and see the flow and understanding of what Misty presents.
Mercy had so many different meanings & layers throughout the whole book. There is so much to take from it. You have a girl who is so desperate to have love and be loved. Who went through a horrific experience, to be thrown out and feel so desperate that she would throw her own life away and beg to die. I found myself heartbroken for this poor beautiful girl that truly had know one to love her. That saw her surface, her beauty as the only redeeming quality. I'm not sure I have felt such rawness and pain in a book that made me feel in "the" moment. Misty does not sugarcoat things. She lays them all out for you and makes you feel.
This is such a different and unique and beautifully written book. I'm sorry if my review is not helpful to you. I may have to come back and revise after I have had more time to think about it. I highly recommend it and I do believe you will take something from it as I have!
July 26, 2016
This was absolutely astounding! I never thought I'd get spellbound by Gargoyles the instant I read about Madeline's attempts at death. This isn't my first time to encounter gargoyle stories, but this is definitely one of the best I've read so far.
Madeline wasn't an easy character to like. From the moment I read that she chose to dive and die, it definitely had me intrigued. I wanted to smack her in the head and kill her instead. But I reeled. I went into the deep recesses of her soul and spent the night gawking, sobbing, breathing and finally understanding how and why it all has to happened. Truce, on the other hand, was a delight to read. I've never met a character as willful as him. And The Boy with the Golden Rod Voice? He surprised me. I swear I was prepared to strike him with an anvil to put some sense into his head, as I saw everything what he did, through Madeline's eyes. This character is definitely something.
Madeline's turning into a gargoyle and how she could finally achieve that one thing she desired is a definite must read. Mercy is undoubtedly dark, but at the same time, it was beautiful. It's my first time to read Misty Provencher, and she already me got me transfixed to this crazy amazing world of Truce & Mercy. Why, she even had me enchanted in all things ugly. Gargoyles do that, definitely!
Madeline wasn't an easy character to like. From the moment I read that she chose to dive and die, it definitely had me intrigued. I wanted to smack her in the head and kill her instead. But I reeled. I went into the deep recesses of her soul and spent the night gawking, sobbing, breathing and finally understanding how and why it all has to happened. Truce, on the other hand, was a delight to read. I've never met a character as willful as him. And The Boy with the Golden Rod Voice? He surprised me. I swear I was prepared to strike him with an anvil to put some sense into his head, as I saw everything what he did, through Madeline's eyes. This character is definitely something.
Madeline's turning into a gargoyle and how she could finally achieve that one thing she desired is a definite must read. Mercy is undoubtedly dark, but at the same time, it was beautiful. It's my first time to read Misty Provencher, and she already me got me transfixed to this crazy amazing world of Truce & Mercy. Why, she even had me enchanted in all things ugly. Gargoyles do that, definitely!
June 20, 2013
I LOVED THIS BOOK!! I was kindly given a copy to include in a feature I'm doing on my blog http://www.mouseheadandtales@weebly.com that are all books given to me to read,review and some of these amazing authors even donated e-copies of their books for blog followers to win!!
I am going to write a review worthy of the beauty in this story,the writing itself was stunning, the book cover,alluring. I would recommend if you haven't read this book yet to RUN to your closet computer and buy it on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, if you're lucky enough to still have an actual bookstore near you, (a mom and pop store preferably, my heart is in those stores).
Regardless of how read about Madeline,her brilliantly written emotional tale that so many can relate to.
This book surpassed my expectations and left me immediately wanting to read EVERYTHING Misty Provencher has written. A 5$ $ $ $ $ $ review on my blog means" I would grab this book before fleeing my burning home. This book will get the review and accolades it deserves, & will be featured in a special way for the goodreads authors feature.
I loved this book and want to personally thank Misty Provencher for sharing this book with me.
I am going to write a review worthy of the beauty in this story,the writing itself was stunning, the book cover,alluring. I would recommend if you haven't read this book yet to RUN to your closet computer and buy it on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, if you're lucky enough to still have an actual bookstore near you, (a mom and pop store preferably, my heart is in those stores).
Regardless of how read about Madeline,her brilliantly written emotional tale that so many can relate to.
This book surpassed my expectations and left me immediately wanting to read EVERYTHING Misty Provencher has written. A 5$ $ $ $ $ $ review on my blog means" I would grab this book before fleeing my burning home. This book will get the review and accolades it deserves, & will be featured in a special way for the goodreads authors feature.
I loved this book and want to personally thank Misty Provencher for sharing this book with me.
December 5, 2012
I love Misty. I really do, however I was a little unsure about this book. I was unsure because I usually don't read dark fantasy books. But, its Misty and I knew that she was not going to disappoint me.
So, let me explain how I felt about this book: good......ok....huh?....confused.....more confusion.......oh, I understand.......WHAT!?.....OMG!!!......ARE YOU KIDDING ME!?!?!?!
That is most simplest way I know how to sum it up!!
Best part of the book: As always, I am going to be honest here. The best part of the book was the ending. Let me explain!! Misty wrote a great story but through out the book there were a lot of questions that were not getting answered. Once we learned more of Madeline's story (which was so sad), began to understand Truce a bit more and figure out if death is really the right answer for Madeline, the story got much better!!
Not so great of the book: Like I said before it was a little bit confusing at parts BUT just stick with it because Misty pulls it altogether and the ENDING IS GREAT!!!
Misty just proved that she can do it all with this book!!
So, let me explain how I felt about this book: good......ok....huh?....confused.....more confusion.......oh, I understand.......WHAT!?.....OMG!!!......ARE YOU KIDDING ME!?!?!?!
That is most simplest way I know how to sum it up!!
Best part of the book: As always, I am going to be honest here. The best part of the book was the ending. Let me explain!! Misty wrote a great story but through out the book there were a lot of questions that were not getting answered. Once we learned more of Madeline's story (which was so sad), began to understand Truce a bit more and figure out if death is really the right answer for Madeline, the story got much better!!
Not so great of the book: Like I said before it was a little bit confusing at parts BUT just stick with it because Misty pulls it altogether and the ENDING IS GREAT!!!
Misty just proved that she can do it all with this book!!
November 7, 2016
I did like this book. It felt like it was all over the place sometimes. (Like the girl was crazy) Sometimes it was so very poetic in its pain. Yeah, I definitely liked it.
October 2, 2013
Three and half stars: A unique and different story featuring gargoyles.
Madeline plunges into the cold, dark water. Her heart is shattered. She wants nothing more than to sink into the murky depths and let go of her broken life. Unfortunately, fate has other plans for her. Madeline doesn't exactly die. She is rescued by Moag a large, hideous gargoyle and taken to the gargoyle kingdom. Here she meets Truce the king of the gargoyles. Madeline is transformed into a monstrous gargoyle and perched up on a roof. She must find courage and strength and make a difficult decision. Will she find a worthy recipient for her gargoyle gift?
What I Liked:
*It is no secret that I am a fan of Misty Provencher's work. Misty has proven time and time again to me that she is not only incredibly talented but creative as well. I have read all of Misty's published books, and I am always amazed at her originality. Mercy: A Gargoyle Story wins the prize for her most creative story to date. Misty brings an interesting tale featuring gargoyles. It is a dark, sad tale that involves redemption and forgiveness. I haven't read anything like it, and I loved that this was fresh and original.
*I was blown away by the writing. Misty takes her writing to a whole another level. The descriptions are detailed, there are stunning metaphors and it was beyond anything I have read by her before. I loved the complexity and the emotion that was packed into this one. One of my favorite aspects is that Misty describes events without spelling everything out. You gather what happened through the emotions and feelings. I know I am not doing it justice by trying to explain, just read it and see for yourself. If you are someone, like me, who enjoys complex and beautiful writing, you must check this out.
*I was intrigued by the gargoyles. The gargoyles are so much more than weird, ugly statues adorning buildings. In this book, the gargoyles embody the souls of the lost, the souls that slipped into death when they weren't supposed to die. In Madeline's case, she is a suicide who wasn't meant to die. Souls that aren't destined for death are scooped up by the gargoyle Moag, and they are called Slips. The souls are transformed into gargoyles, and they must bide their time waiting until they find the right recipient to receive their gargoyle gift. A gargoyle's gift is their heart bestowed upon someone who needs a second chance. Once the gargoyle has given their heart, they move on. So in a sense, a gargoyle is a dark form of an angel. A savior who gives hope to the lost. As you can see, this is a very interesting concept. Besides, how often do you get to read about gargoyles?
*Even though the overall storyline is a bit dark because it takes on tough topics like depression, abortion and suicide, there is a bit of hope at the end. I liked that I never knew what was coming and that this story was completely unpredictable. I appreciated Madeline's growth and transformation as well. This is certainly a NA book that strays far, far from the NA books that are flooding the market.
And The Not So Much:
*I was left wondering about the fates of Selene and Moag. Was there any hope for Selene or was she destined to her sad fate? What about Moag? Did he earn his freedom? I was fascinated by Moag and I wished I had a better understanding of his role and purpose.
*This book is dark, gritty and a little depressing and disturbing. There is nothing over the top gross in this nor is it scary, but it tackles the dark side of mankind as we see the characters grappling with the things in life we don't like to talk about. There is guilt, sadness, despair and bad decisions.
*At times, things get a bit confusing, and I often didn't have a clear picture of what was going on. For instance, the whole thing with Trickle was puzzling. I never understood what he was supposed to see, and I didn't have a firm grasp on the whole trial thing.
Mercy: A Gargoyle Story is a brisk, interesting read that shows us the dark side of humanity. The writing is absolutely stunning and the storyline is completely original. I recommend you give this little novel a try if you are desperate for something fresh and unique. Misty has proven to me once again that she is a writer that I want to be reading.
Favorite Quotations:
"I remember the boy's voice like a Swiss Army Knife, useful, quick and serrated. It was used for hunting, for trapping for feeding me. He could slide his whisper right along my skin and separate me from my clothing with three clean words. His voice enchanted the other girls too."
"It's funny how an ugly person can become the most handsome just by how he looked at me and listened and smiled when I spoke."
"What I see are the stars little aluminum shavings drifting in the deep blue of the midnight sky, sparkling like all they want in the world is for me to see them. And I do."
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and I was not compensated for this review.
Posted@
Rainy Day Ramblings.
Madeline plunges into the cold, dark water. Her heart is shattered. She wants nothing more than to sink into the murky depths and let go of her broken life. Unfortunately, fate has other plans for her. Madeline doesn't exactly die. She is rescued by Moag a large, hideous gargoyle and taken to the gargoyle kingdom. Here she meets Truce the king of the gargoyles. Madeline is transformed into a monstrous gargoyle and perched up on a roof. She must find courage and strength and make a difficult decision. Will she find a worthy recipient for her gargoyle gift?
What I Liked:
*It is no secret that I am a fan of Misty Provencher's work. Misty has proven time and time again to me that she is not only incredibly talented but creative as well. I have read all of Misty's published books, and I am always amazed at her originality. Mercy: A Gargoyle Story wins the prize for her most creative story to date. Misty brings an interesting tale featuring gargoyles. It is a dark, sad tale that involves redemption and forgiveness. I haven't read anything like it, and I loved that this was fresh and original.
*I was blown away by the writing. Misty takes her writing to a whole another level. The descriptions are detailed, there are stunning metaphors and it was beyond anything I have read by her before. I loved the complexity and the emotion that was packed into this one. One of my favorite aspects is that Misty describes events without spelling everything out. You gather what happened through the emotions and feelings. I know I am not doing it justice by trying to explain, just read it and see for yourself. If you are someone, like me, who enjoys complex and beautiful writing, you must check this out.
*I was intrigued by the gargoyles. The gargoyles are so much more than weird, ugly statues adorning buildings. In this book, the gargoyles embody the souls of the lost, the souls that slipped into death when they weren't supposed to die. In Madeline's case, she is a suicide who wasn't meant to die. Souls that aren't destined for death are scooped up by the gargoyle Moag, and they are called Slips. The souls are transformed into gargoyles, and they must bide their time waiting until they find the right recipient to receive their gargoyle gift. A gargoyle's gift is their heart bestowed upon someone who needs a second chance. Once the gargoyle has given their heart, they move on. So in a sense, a gargoyle is a dark form of an angel. A savior who gives hope to the lost. As you can see, this is a very interesting concept. Besides, how often do you get to read about gargoyles?
*Even though the overall storyline is a bit dark because it takes on tough topics like depression, abortion and suicide, there is a bit of hope at the end. I liked that I never knew what was coming and that this story was completely unpredictable. I appreciated Madeline's growth and transformation as well. This is certainly a NA book that strays far, far from the NA books that are flooding the market.
And The Not So Much:
*I was left wondering about the fates of Selene and Moag. Was there any hope for Selene or was she destined to her sad fate? What about Moag? Did he earn his freedom? I was fascinated by Moag and I wished I had a better understanding of his role and purpose.
*This book is dark, gritty and a little depressing and disturbing. There is nothing over the top gross in this nor is it scary, but it tackles the dark side of mankind as we see the characters grappling with the things in life we don't like to talk about. There is guilt, sadness, despair and bad decisions.
*At times, things get a bit confusing, and I often didn't have a clear picture of what was going on. For instance, the whole thing with Trickle was puzzling. I never understood what he was supposed to see, and I didn't have a firm grasp on the whole trial thing.
Mercy: A Gargoyle Story is a brisk, interesting read that shows us the dark side of humanity. The writing is absolutely stunning and the storyline is completely original. I recommend you give this little novel a try if you are desperate for something fresh and unique. Misty has proven to me once again that she is a writer that I want to be reading.
Favorite Quotations:
"I remember the boy's voice like a Swiss Army Knife, useful, quick and serrated. It was used for hunting, for trapping for feeding me. He could slide his whisper right along my skin and separate me from my clothing with three clean words. His voice enchanted the other girls too."
"It's funny how an ugly person can become the most handsome just by how he looked at me and listened and smiled when I spoke."
"What I see are the stars little aluminum shavings drifting in the deep blue of the midnight sky, sparkling like all they want in the world is for me to see them. And I do."
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and I was not compensated for this review.
Posted@
Rainy Day Ramblings.
April 5, 2013
I didn't label this one because it's New Adult, and has a warning on it, but I feel that many YA readers would enjoy it and it wouldn't be too dark for them. Actually, I have read MUCH worse in YA, but be warned that there's a bit of gory grossness, but it's just in the beginning. Later the story is dark in that so much of Madeline's past plays a role. We learn about the things she went through that led her to her suicide.
I believe that this book is the best written of all of Misty's books. She's brilliant, I LOVE all her books and I actually like the Cornerstone series better then this one, but her writing in this completely blew me away. It was a totally different style and was absolutely stunning. I honestly believe that she could have sold this book in a heartbeat to a big publishing house. So please don't let the fact that it's an indie title hold you back from reading it.
This is a slower paced story, it felt so much more about the emotion, the deep emotion, of it all and not so much about action and things happening. Things unfold slowly but as the story goes on we start to know Madeline how she was before. About how things went wrong. And in Misty's clever way of writing we also see where Madeline wasn't a perfect person (well, obviously) through a her eavesdropping on someone from her past and hearing some things about herself.
This is definitely a deep story, and it's not going to be one for everyone, but I don't think anyone can dispute the fact that Misty can put together some gorgeous words. She also created a story so different from anything else that you can't even compare it to a different sort of paranormal or fantasy.
While I didn't always have the urge to pick the book up to read it, once I did I found myself entranced. I was curious to see where things went but it really was Misty's writing that I loved. And all the emotion, I could feel so much connection to it all even though my own past was so different. I just felt myself really understanding and connecting with it all.
I don't even know who to recommend this too. I guess those who aren't afraid of something different, who can truly appreciate gorgeous writing, who love some deep emotion and who aren't afraid of shedding a tear or two. There's some bad language, some gory scenes and sexual insinuation, but nothing on the page. I suggest mature YA readers and up only.
You can find this review, and others like it, on my blog at http://www.candacesbookblog.com
I believe that this book is the best written of all of Misty's books. She's brilliant, I LOVE all her books and I actually like the Cornerstone series better then this one, but her writing in this completely blew me away. It was a totally different style and was absolutely stunning. I honestly believe that she could have sold this book in a heartbeat to a big publishing house. So please don't let the fact that it's an indie title hold you back from reading it.
This is a slower paced story, it felt so much more about the emotion, the deep emotion, of it all and not so much about action and things happening. Things unfold slowly but as the story goes on we start to know Madeline how she was before. About how things went wrong. And in Misty's clever way of writing we also see where Madeline wasn't a perfect person (well, obviously) through a her eavesdropping on someone from her past and hearing some things about herself.
This is definitely a deep story, and it's not going to be one for everyone, but I don't think anyone can dispute the fact that Misty can put together some gorgeous words. She also created a story so different from anything else that you can't even compare it to a different sort of paranormal or fantasy.
While I didn't always have the urge to pick the book up to read it, once I did I found myself entranced. I was curious to see where things went but it really was Misty's writing that I loved. And all the emotion, I could feel so much connection to it all even though my own past was so different. I just felt myself really understanding and connecting with it all.
I don't even know who to recommend this too. I guess those who aren't afraid of something different, who can truly appreciate gorgeous writing, who love some deep emotion and who aren't afraid of shedding a tear or two. There's some bad language, some gory scenes and sexual insinuation, but nothing on the page. I suggest mature YA readers and up only.
You can find this review, and others like it, on my blog at http://www.candacesbookblog.com
July 13, 2016
This book intrigued me from its very first lines. The opening sequence has a dream like quality and is beautifully written, simply poetic in form. Death pervades the pages of this book, in one form or another, and yet Madeline’s journey seems to be an unconscious, and sometimes unwilling, struggle toward hope.
Provencher gambles with this book and its subject matter. Not only does she weave fantastical elements in with highly sensitive contemporary issues, she challenges the usual stereotypes and clichés that one normally finds in dark urban fantasy (or fiction in general.) And for the most part (a little on this further on,) I feel she succeeds.
There are moments in Mercy that are so poignant, so universal, that my breath was literally taken away. In my opinion, an underlying theme of this book is maternal guilt and the journey to absolution. It is not blatant, and some may disagree, but as a mother, it was so clear to me. I wept so many times, the images painted so vividly. They called to me on a visceral level. What mother does not have some kind of guilt? But at the same time, Provencher hits on other dark issues that would speak to a wide audience and perhaps it’s not just maternal guilt, but guilt in general that the characters strive to escape.
Negatives that I can touch on, but shouldn’t be a deal breaker, are the idea of gargoyles. It took me some time to suspend my disbelief, mostly because I was confused as to what was happening to Madeline –still, I’m not exactly sure why her transformation happened the way it did or why it was significant. As I read on, however, I soon forgot those issues.
Also, something that bothered me to a degree was the lack of setting. Most of the book is set in a central location or one kind of central location. I found myself wishing she would go somewhere else, or get away.
Over all, Provencher was incredibly brave to write this book. Her insight to the human state is profound and her ability to delineate our experiences in such a vibrant and insightful way deserves praise.
Provencher gambles with this book and its subject matter. Not only does she weave fantastical elements in with highly sensitive contemporary issues, she challenges the usual stereotypes and clichés that one normally finds in dark urban fantasy (or fiction in general.) And for the most part (a little on this further on,) I feel she succeeds.
There are moments in Mercy that are so poignant, so universal, that my breath was literally taken away. In my opinion, an underlying theme of this book is maternal guilt and the journey to absolution. It is not blatant, and some may disagree, but as a mother, it was so clear to me. I wept so many times, the images painted so vividly. They called to me on a visceral level. What mother does not have some kind of guilt? But at the same time, Provencher hits on other dark issues that would speak to a wide audience and perhaps it’s not just maternal guilt, but guilt in general that the characters strive to escape.
Negatives that I can touch on, but shouldn’t be a deal breaker, are the idea of gargoyles. It took me some time to suspend my disbelief, mostly because I was confused as to what was happening to Madeline –still, I’m not exactly sure why her transformation happened the way it did or why it was significant. As I read on, however, I soon forgot those issues.
Also, something that bothered me to a degree was the lack of setting. Most of the book is set in a central location or one kind of central location. I found myself wishing she would go somewhere else, or get away.
Over all, Provencher was incredibly brave to write this book. Her insight to the human state is profound and her ability to delineate our experiences in such a vibrant and insightful way deserves praise.
January 15, 2013
I can't help it, I really liked how this one started out. So sad and forlorn, so mysterious and dark. It fit the cover beautifully.
This was one of those stories that completely took me by surprise. I learned to expect the unexpected.
I haven't read a lot of books about gargoyles, in fact this is only my second but I am really liking the different-ness of it. That it is something new in the YA genre.
This was definitely darker feeling, not goth, just dark. A little depressing at times as the main character tells her story. You know that something bad must have happened to her, after all, she wanted to die, in fact, she even tried to kill herself, so yeah, I knew this wasn't going to be a fluff read and it wasn't.
It wasn't all dark though either. As Madeline's story starts to unfold throughout you understand her and some might even be able to relate to her. She didn't always have it easy. She fell in love and that love was her downfall.
I don't want to get into specifics because it will just give too much away. But Madeline is a strong character. One that isn't at first but grows as the story goes. Learns to deal with things that she never though she would. Really goes from being a child to an adult and has to make decisions about others and herself that she never wanted to deal with before.
Misty did a fabulous job with her growth and making it happen in such a way that it was totally compelling and unique. The details of the story and characters were rich and made you feel like you were there along with them and a part of the story.
If you want something very well written and not the norm right now in the genre, I highly recommend Mercy to you. If I hadn't already purchased Misty's other books I would have after finishing this one.
She really knows how to suck you into the story and want to keep reading.
This was one of those stories that completely took me by surprise. I learned to expect the unexpected.
I haven't read a lot of books about gargoyles, in fact this is only my second but I am really liking the different-ness of it. That it is something new in the YA genre.
This was definitely darker feeling, not goth, just dark. A little depressing at times as the main character tells her story. You know that something bad must have happened to her, after all, she wanted to die, in fact, she even tried to kill herself, so yeah, I knew this wasn't going to be a fluff read and it wasn't.
It wasn't all dark though either. As Madeline's story starts to unfold throughout you understand her and some might even be able to relate to her. She didn't always have it easy. She fell in love and that love was her downfall.
I don't want to get into specifics because it will just give too much away. But Madeline is a strong character. One that isn't at first but grows as the story goes. Learns to deal with things that she never though she would. Really goes from being a child to an adult and has to make decisions about others and herself that she never wanted to deal with before.
Misty did a fabulous job with her growth and making it happen in such a way that it was totally compelling and unique. The details of the story and characters were rich and made you feel like you were there along with them and a part of the story.
If you want something very well written and not the norm right now in the genre, I highly recommend Mercy to you. If I hadn't already purchased Misty's other books I would have after finishing this one.
She really knows how to suck you into the story and want to keep reading.
January 8, 2013
This is one heck of a dark read. I started reading this book a few days before Christmas. Not a good idea. I put it down because it just isn’t a happy story. This is one viciously dark, disturbing tale. But I have to tell you first: I’m not a big fan of dystopian novels because of the depressing nature of the setting. I like my books full of fast action, happiness, love, hot men, smart chicks…. basically a Michael Bay film on ‘roids. But this story really grabbed me in, took my soul and squeezed it hard.
From the very start, you know this isn’t a typical urban fantasy. Ms. Provencher is writing about gargoyles – awesome!! I love gargoyles!!! But her gargoyles have a world all their own and Ms. Provencher does a great job building it up. I think she really could have spent a ton more time on world building but for the sake of one book, she did what she could with what time she had. And it was enough to satisfy me. Character development was okay but what really drove the plot was the story. I had no clue where this was going, what was going to happen, and I was often confused on what was happening (but it was the good confused, the kind I like to be, where everything unfolds in front of you).
Honestly, not everyone is going to like this one. Its dark subject matter isn’t really for kiddies or the weak of heart. Or, maybe you think it is; if you’re a parent, that’s your job to decide. I, personally, had trouble with it. But I can see the story for what it is – a great dark tale with excellent Misty Provencher writing.
From the very start, you know this isn’t a typical urban fantasy. Ms. Provencher is writing about gargoyles – awesome!! I love gargoyles!!! But her gargoyles have a world all their own and Ms. Provencher does a great job building it up. I think she really could have spent a ton more time on world building but for the sake of one book, she did what she could with what time she had. And it was enough to satisfy me. Character development was okay but what really drove the plot was the story. I had no clue where this was going, what was going to happen, and I was often confused on what was happening (but it was the good confused, the kind I like to be, where everything unfolds in front of you).
Honestly, not everyone is going to like this one. Its dark subject matter isn’t really for kiddies or the weak of heart. Or, maybe you think it is; if you’re a parent, that’s your job to decide. I, personally, had trouble with it. But I can see the story for what it is – a great dark tale with excellent Misty Provencher writing.
January 19, 2013
Misty Provencher is seriously an amazing author. Her talent transcends genres. I loved her Cornerstone series and was excited to read this book. I knew that it would be different from anything I had previously read.
When I first started reading it, I was really confused, but I continued to read. I'm so glad that I did. This story is so much more than I was expecting. I've never read anything about gargoyles before, so I honestly had no idea what was going to happen when I started reading that first page.
I knew from the first chapter that this wasn't going to be a happy, cheerful book. Without giving anything away, the story starts off without a sad tone. I was shocked at the beginning. Madeline went through something in life that made her...reevaluate everything. During the progression of this story, we see Madeline grow. She becomes stronger as she faces everything from her previous life.
This review doesn't give Misty's book the justice it deserve. I don't think there is anything I could say or do that would give this book justice. It's a beautiful book that is so well written, you forget that you're actually reading a book. I was completely sucked into this world and forgot all about my surroundings. I was experiencing everything with Madeline.
Like a lot of people have said, this book may not be for everyone, but I beg everyone to give it a chance. Misty Provencher is a phenomenal author and you won't be disappointed with this read.
When I first started reading it, I was really confused, but I continued to read. I'm so glad that I did. This story is so much more than I was expecting. I've never read anything about gargoyles before, so I honestly had no idea what was going to happen when I started reading that first page.
I knew from the first chapter that this wasn't going to be a happy, cheerful book. Without giving anything away, the story starts off without a sad tone. I was shocked at the beginning. Madeline went through something in life that made her...reevaluate everything. During the progression of this story, we see Madeline grow. She becomes stronger as she faces everything from her previous life.
This review doesn't give Misty's book the justice it deserve. I don't think there is anything I could say or do that would give this book justice. It's a beautiful book that is so well written, you forget that you're actually reading a book. I was completely sucked into this world and forgot all about my surroundings. I was experiencing everything with Madeline.
Like a lot of people have said, this book may not be for everyone, but I beg everyone to give it a chance. Misty Provencher is a phenomenal author and you won't be disappointed with this read.
December 31, 2012
I can honestly say I have never read another book like this.
Mercy is no fairy tale, that's for sure.
Madeline is a girl who has suffered much in her life and part of that suffering was inflicted by loving a boy more than he loved her.
I felt so sorry for her, I just wanted to reach in and take her pain away.
Madeline died and the angels didn't come for her, she was a Slip because she fell through the cracks.
Now she's faced with choosing a suitor but all of them have secrets and lies, ulterior motives for wanting her to be their Queen.
Who will she choose? What kind of life is she likely to have as a Gargoyle Queen? These are the questions she must ask herself before making her final decision.
Madeline struggles to face up to things from her previous life. The boy she loved and the best friend that made her feel worthy of the boy even when he didn't.
I must say, this book may not be to everyone's tastes. There's a lot of hardship and truths that Maddy must face up to.
But I absolutely loved it from the first word to the last.
Misty Provencher is a great writer and I look forward to reading much more from her in the future.
Mercy is no fairy tale, that's for sure.
Madeline is a girl who has suffered much in her life and part of that suffering was inflicted by loving a boy more than he loved her.
I felt so sorry for her, I just wanted to reach in and take her pain away.
Madeline died and the angels didn't come for her, she was a Slip because she fell through the cracks.
Now she's faced with choosing a suitor but all of them have secrets and lies, ulterior motives for wanting her to be their Queen.
Who will she choose? What kind of life is she likely to have as a Gargoyle Queen? These are the questions she must ask herself before making her final decision.
Madeline struggles to face up to things from her previous life. The boy she loved and the best friend that made her feel worthy of the boy even when he didn't.
I must say, this book may not be to everyone's tastes. There's a lot of hardship and truths that Maddy must face up to.
But I absolutely loved it from the first word to the last.
Misty Provencher is a great writer and I look forward to reading much more from her in the future.
December 28, 2012
Ms. Provencher is easily one of my favorite authors. This book did not disappoint.
I was a little surprised by the book as it wasn't a sweeping urban fantasy spanning many locations with lots of action, but instead was much more like an in-depth character study. I found it to be a beautiful, heartbreaking tale of love, loss, and death and how everything, no matter how painful to live through, balances out in the end. Life is defined by our choices, but sometimes, when we make mistakes, we are granted second chances. Above all else this book was about redemption and acceptance. As always, Ms. Provencher's voice is well-defined and colors this fantastic new world using all five senses from a surprising point of view. You would think, as this is the fourth book of hers I've read, I would be less amazed by her descriptive abilities, but it never fails to catch me off guard and suck me back into the achingly beautiful tale she spins. I read this one in under four hours, as I'm a pretty fast reader, and I'm very glad I could do so in one sitting. This is one that sucks you in and holds you, entranced, for the entirety of the story.
I was a little surprised by the book as it wasn't a sweeping urban fantasy spanning many locations with lots of action, but instead was much more like an in-depth character study. I found it to be a beautiful, heartbreaking tale of love, loss, and death and how everything, no matter how painful to live through, balances out in the end. Life is defined by our choices, but sometimes, when we make mistakes, we are granted second chances. Above all else this book was about redemption and acceptance. As always, Ms. Provencher's voice is well-defined and colors this fantastic new world using all five senses from a surprising point of view. You would think, as this is the fourth book of hers I've read, I would be less amazed by her descriptive abilities, but it never fails to catch me off guard and suck me back into the achingly beautiful tale she spins. I read this one in under four hours, as I'm a pretty fast reader, and I'm very glad I could do so in one sitting. This is one that sucks you in and holds you, entranced, for the entirety of the story.
July 29, 2016
Mercy, A Gargoyle Story by Misty Provencher is a New-Adult Urban Fantasy, heavier on the fantasy side. This is the story of Madeline, fairly forgotten by her family, sought love where none was to be found. Kicked out of her home and dumped by her boyfriend, Madeline leaves this world only to be resurrected as a gargoyle. A lonely and confused gargoyle. Still among those she left behind, but unacknowledged, Madeline sees the world in a new light and tries to right some of the wrongs as she can. To complicate matters, she must fend advances by a bevy of gargoyles seeking her hand and her best friend can only talk in the rain.
This was an interesting, albeit unusual, read. It started fairly slow but there was a lot of world building that went into the beginning to shape the story. Ms. Provencher has an appealingly poetic writing style, one of my favorite passages was "All I want is to rip him to pieces. Like a love letter that never meant a thing." Just a perfect line. I look forward to reading more of her books.
review by JO
August 1, 2016
Mercy, A Gargoyle Story by Misty Provencher is a New-Adult Urban Fantasy, heavier on the fantasy side. This is the story of Madeline, fairly forgotten by her family, sought love where none was to be found. Kicked out of her home and dumped by her boyfriend, Madeline leaves this world only to be resurrected as a gargoyle. A lonely and confused gargoyle. Still among those she left behind, but unacknowledged, Madeline sees the world in a new light and tries to right some of the wrongs as she can. To complicate matters, she must fend advances by a bevy of gargoyles seeking her hand and her best friend can only talk in the rain.
This was an interesting, albeit unusual, read. It started fairly slow but there was a lot of world building that went into the beginning to shape the story. Ms. Provencher has an appealingly poetic writing style, one of my favorite passages was "All I want is to rip him to pieces. Like a love letter that never meant a thing." Just a perfect line. I look forward to reading more of her books.
This was an interesting, albeit unusual, read. It started fairly slow but there was a lot of world building that went into the beginning to shape the story. Ms. Provencher has an appealingly poetic writing style, one of my favorite passages was "All I want is to rip him to pieces. Like a love letter that never meant a thing." Just a perfect line. I look forward to reading more of her books.
February 24, 2013
I bought this book after reading Misty Provencher's Cornerstone series. I found the description of this book intriguing and it didn't disappoint.
Although at times a bit confusing, this book was worth reading every page. It is original, bizarre, heart-breaking, dark and thoughtful. It might not be a story for everyone. But the ones that give it a chance won't be disappointed.
Centered around the main character Madeline who tries to kill herself after experiencing tragedy and ends up not being alive or dead but a gargoyle, the story allows us follow the heroine's quest of self-discovery and learning. The story has so many twists and turns, you just don't even attempt to anticipate how it will end. And it is for the better as the ending is surprising and beautiful.
Coming up with an idea for a story like this takes incredible amounts of creativity and talent. And to then writing it in such a wonderful, nearly poetic way, is just absolutely amazing.
Although at times a bit confusing, this book was worth reading every page. It is original, bizarre, heart-breaking, dark and thoughtful. It might not be a story for everyone. But the ones that give it a chance won't be disappointed.
Centered around the main character Madeline who tries to kill herself after experiencing tragedy and ends up not being alive or dead but a gargoyle, the story allows us follow the heroine's quest of self-discovery and learning. The story has so many twists and turns, you just don't even attempt to anticipate how it will end. And it is for the better as the ending is surprising and beautiful.
Coming up with an idea for a story like this takes incredible amounts of creativity and talent. And to then writing it in such a wonderful, nearly poetic way, is just absolutely amazing.
October 10, 2013
Mercy is like nothing I have ever read before. Going into it, I was thinking , gargoyles...hmmmm, I wonder how this is going to play out.it is not something I would normally read. I did so because Misty Provenchr is one of my most favorite authors. Everything she has written, I absolutely love. Back to Mercy- I am going to be honest, the first 5 chapters were a bit confusing and I was thinking, wtf...whoa. It was so bizarre, but had me so pulled into the story,. I grew to love and have some compassion for certain characters and gargoyles. I was also able to relate to some of them and parts of the story. This is a very tragic and complex tale. I am always so amazed with Misty's imagination and her ability to write such colorful,and grey, characters.Her word play, although at times in Mercy very complex, is award worthy.I am dying to find out what happens with these characters and the world of the gargoyles.
April 17, 2013
Unique and fascinating examination of a young girl's self-discovery as she finds herself in the dark world of the gargoyle after taking her own life after a regretted abortion.
Although the theme is dark, there is much to be admired in the way this author has handled the difficult subjects of love, loss, guilt, resentment, and the path to forgiveness with such tenderness and insight.
I'm used to Ms. Provencher's wonderful mix of romance, adventure, humor and great dramatic moments in her other books, but this is a much darker examination of human nature at its most vulnerable level. Another thoughtful and amazing adventure from the mind of Misty Provencher.
Although the theme is dark, there is much to be admired in the way this author has handled the difficult subjects of love, loss, guilt, resentment, and the path to forgiveness with such tenderness and insight.
I'm used to Ms. Provencher's wonderful mix of romance, adventure, humor and great dramatic moments in her other books, but this is a much darker examination of human nature at its most vulnerable level. Another thoughtful and amazing adventure from the mind of Misty Provencher.
March 4, 2013
Okay this was seriously just too cool. At first I wasn't sure about this book but quickly my opinion changed! It was so different, so interesting, so full of emotion and mystery and wasn't filled with a bunch of nonsense to increase the number of pages in the book.
It's so wonderful knowing their are authors out there that push past what is common and huge right now and make something as awesome and as one of a kind as this story. Granted its not for everyone but I sure was in love with these characters. I wish this was a series.
Kudos Misty!
It's so wonderful knowing their are authors out there that push past what is common and huge right now and make something as awesome and as one of a kind as this story. Granted its not for everyone but I sure was in love with these characters. I wish this was a series.
Kudos Misty!
June 7, 2014
Do you wonder about the gargoyle's on buildings, are they real? I know my kids wonder and now I know. I started this book knowing it was different and it was but good different. It took hold of me and didn't let go, once I started reading I didn't want to put it down because I needed to know what would happen next. You feel for all the characters not just the main ones and they appear so real that how well written the story is. The ending pulled it all together and was not what I expected but it satisfied me. This is the 1st book I've read by this author and I plan to read more.
Read
July 14, 2016...
This book... Where to begin? It's a very dark story dealing with choices, consequences, and regrets. Touching on topics of suicide, abortion, love, and hate. I really enjoyed reading this book and I think it is an incredible book older teens and above should read. With the heartbreak of unreturned love and regretted decisions... Learning that letting someone else make your decisions or influence your choices is not the way to go and will leave you with heartache in the end.
This book... Where to begin? It's a very dark story dealing with choices, consequences, and regrets. Touching on topics of suicide, abortion, love, and hate. I really enjoyed reading this book and I think it is an incredible book older teens and above should read. With the heartbreak of unreturned love and regretted decisions... Learning that letting someone else make your decisions or influence your choices is not the way to go and will leave you with heartache in the end.
January 18, 2013
I love this concept! I read a lot of paranormal fiction, but this is the first time I've encountered gargoyles as the main characters. A great story, and a great main character in Madeline. Only one thing...I wanted MORE! I'd love to read more about the mythos of the gargoyles, about their traditions & rules. Very fascinating!
June 29, 2015
Very well written. The beginning draws the reader in quickly and I was glued to the pages. When the gargoyle Moag first appeared, I admit I was confused, same with the first conversation with Truce, but as time went on, everything became clearer and this turned out to be a lovely story of love and redemption.
Full review to come.
Full review to come.
December 22, 2012
Where did my review go? Ugh! This is an A-MAZ-ING story. I'll re-add my review soon. In the meantime, just GET THE DAMN BOOK for yourself. It's BRILL! <3
January 1, 2013
Not my cup of tea. Just couldn't get into this one. Sorry
Want to read
January 19, 2013Gargoyles.. O___O
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