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DarkWing Clan #1

A Highland Gargoyle's Lucky Star

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A gargoyle hotter than Goliath (IYKYK) meets a human bad luck magnet with a coveted power that attracts trouble like catnip to cats. Is it destiny or disaster?

Noah Price

When a mysterious magic shop owner draws the lucky tarot Star card for me, I drop everything and hop on a plane to Scotland for the bucket-list trip of a lifetime. Outlander (and Highlander, for my fellow nerds), eat your heart out!

But instead of my constant bad luck finally turning to good, chaos ensues from the moment I arrive, and sketchy creeps keep following me everywhere. Then a smoking hot gargoyle-slash-Highland warrior swoops (literally) in to rescue me—and in a super sexy kilt, no less. Swoon!

Who cares about the threats to my life and my newfound magical abilities when I’ve met the man—I mean gargoyle—of my dreams? But Elryk DarkWing isn’t as thrilled as I am to find out he’s my fated mate, and trying to win his heart might be my biggest challenge yet. That’s okay though, because I believe in destiny—and he’s mine.

Elryk DarkWing
Guarding a powerful magic ley line in the heart of the Highlands has been the responsibility of the DarkWing clan for centuries. This wasn’t the path I’d wanted for my life, but here I am.

That is, until my fated mate shows up, an attractive wee human with a surprising ability and all kinds of trouble hot on his heels.

My clan is thrilled but I’m less enthused. Can such a delicate being survive among battle-hardened gargoyles that risk life and limb every time there’s a threat to the ley line we protect? Can he adapt to this isolated life, removed from most of human society? Answer—not bloody likely.

And Noah’s unique power has drawn the unwanted attention of friend and foe alike. Accepting our mate bond in the midst of all this is complicated enough, but I soon realize keeping Noah safe is a Herculean task I might not be ready for. I won’t back down though, because this sweet man is starting to make me believe that true love exists and our destiny together might just be written in the stars…

A Highland Gargoyle’s Lucky Star is the first book in a spinoff series set in the Monsters Hollow universe and featuring the DarkWing gargoyle clan in Scotland.

269 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 17, 2024

51 people are currently reading
274 people want to read

About the author

Chloe Archer

16 books279 followers
Chloe Archer writes queer sci-fi and paranormal rom-coms with laugh out loud humor, zany shenanigans, silly acronyms, and plenty of spice!

She currently call Minnesota home, but has lived abroad in places like Montreal, Edinburgh, and Tokyo. She’s hoping to relocate to Scotland permanently in the next few years if the stars align.

Chloe is a fur mama to two adorable Yorkies, Jasper and Teddy, and she loves them in a crazy dog mama kind of way. When she isn’t busy writing, she enjoys visiting friends and family, traveling, reading, binge watching movies and TV shows, and practicing her karaoke skills. She does a mean cover of Pat Benatar and Cher, or so she’s been told.

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 156 reviews
Profile Image for Dani.
1,656 reviews309 followers
October 24, 2024
This was so fun! I loved how the fated mates just accepted it straight away too and the conflict of the story was elsewhere - I get so fed up with these fated mates being in denial or refusing to accept what's right in front of them, so this was really refreshing!

I love the humour, Noah's constant references to film and TV were so funny and I now have the urge to go watch men in kilts throwing trees...

I think my favourite character was actually Nasser (aka Nessie) though, and I'm hopeful he gets a book soon because I really want to know his story!

*****

I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review
Profile Image for Mx. T *Chaotic Reader*.
622 reviews115 followers
October 27, 2024
✨ARC REVIEW✨
When Noah gets fired from his job because bad luck seems to find him, he's inspired to visit Scotland after a mysterious shop owner reads the Tarot cards for him. There he discovers his a magical Conduit, meets his sweet gargoyle fated mate Elryk and gets to live in a castle for all eternity. This was a fun light read, with zero angst, a really sassy MC and a very protective gargoyle. The movie and TV references were funny af and now I need the rest of the gargoyle (and Nessie) to find their fated mates too.
Profile Image for Cadiva.
3,993 reviews435 followers
May 13, 2025
So much fun

I loved this spin-off from the Mystic Hollow series, tied in to the Tales from the Tarot one also.

The premise is fairly simple, Noah's got rotten luck, things mess up around him even when it's not his fault directly and after another incident where he loses his job, he's despondent.

On his way home though he spies a magic shop that he's never seen before, goes in and gets a Tarot reading and ends up deciding to head to Scotland, a bucket list trip he's been wanting to make for years.

Of course, nothing is that simple, on landing in London before making his way to the station for a sleeper train to Inverness, he ends up on a dodgy situation on a bus.

Having met a bunch of Scotsmen in kilts, nearly getting kidnapped and being rescued by a gargoyle, Noah ends up at the destination of his dreams - a remote Highland castle - with a fated mate in tow!

I'll leave the rest of the shenanigans for you to discover, but I loved every bit of this story!
Profile Image for Bee.
1,096 reviews222 followers
November 21, 2024
4.5 stars, rounded up!

Ah, this was exactly what I needed! Chloe's brand of hilarious shenanigans with lots of heart and fun characters are perfect at pulling me out of my slump. I've loved all of her other books, so I knew I'd be safe with this one as well. I adore Elryk and Noah and the BlackWing clan! I also want to visit Scotland now...

While this book is part of the Tales from the Tarot anthology series, it's also connected to Chloe's Monster Hollow series (which I also adore). I don't think you necessarily need to have read those before going into this one, but I do recommend it. Because they're great. Obviously. The story itself is fun, low angst, and entertaining. It's easy to just sink into this world and have a good time. It's a fated mates romance, so there is some level of insta-love going on, but I don't mind it at all. Done well, within a fated mates story, insta-love feels natural. And it did in this one! I also love that they were both all-in almost right away. (Elryk took a wee bit of convincing.) The bit of angst that is there, is from an external source and doesn't affect the romance at all, which I love.

I always love Chloe's characters, so it didn't take me long to fall in love with the ones from this story either. I'm very eager for a few side-characters to get their own HEA. (Looking at you, Nasser! And Braewyn!) As for the stars of this story, well... I couldn't not love them. Elryk is such a sweetheart and Noah is like sunshine. I love them both.

Another win for Chloe Archer, which was entirely expected. I can't wait for more stories in this world, but - quite frankly - I will read everything Chloe Archer writes because it always gives me happy, fuzzy feels. If you haven't read this - or, gasp!, any other Chloe book, then get on with it, dangit! You're missing out.
Profile Image for Kashonna Shaw.
493 reviews4 followers
October 14, 2024
This was a great read. I loved that even though it's connected to another series you don't need to have read that one first.
Noah, our lovely human, is down his luck. He just got fired, his friends with benefits dumps him and he's about the be homeless if he doesn't find a new job. All this bad luck in one night, luckily for him he stumbles upon a magic shop that gives him the push he needs to follow his hearts desire. Queue taking a trip to Scotland to check off an item from your bucket list. I loved that Noah, didn't even hesitate to go on this trip. Granted he has a mom that a new age gal and believes in the mystical. He still didn't have fear going off, even though his luck isn't the greatest. And lucky for him he was able to discover a new ability/power he didn't know he had.
Elryk, our grumpy gargoyle, is just too serious for words. I get that he has a huge responsibility that makes it impossible to relax, but he took it to the extreme. He literally made that his personality for so long. He never thought of a life where he could do anything else. For him his duty was all he allowed himself to think of. I was really happy that the Oracle of his clan gave the clan the news that fated mates would be making their way to them. It gave him a little hope that someday someone may show up for him. And it happened sooner than he expected.
The meet cute for Noah & Elryk was so funny. I couldn't have wished for better one for the. But of course it wasn't all rainbows & roses. What follows next is explaining the danger Noah's in, telling him about his new gift, finding way a to say what they are to one another and defeating the looming threat! All within days of meeting each. So much chaos but I loved it. Definitely recommend reading this book.
Profile Image for Jacqueleen the Reading Queen♡.
1,542 reviews104 followers
October 21, 2024
This was such an adorable fated mates story. It was also pretty darn funny too. I was dying when Elryk took Noah flying for the first time when not in danger and Noah called their safety harness "the gargoyle BDSM version of a Baby Bjorn!" Having owned a baby wearing contraption I could just picture it in my head and it had me giggling all over again.

Noah was so cute with how determined he was to stick by his mate. Elryk was so worried that Noah would resent him for the fact that if they bonded, Noah would be condemned to living deep in their hidden Highlands castle for the rest of their lives. Elryk's job as the Gargoyle who powers their protective wards makes it so he can't stray too far and too long away from their home. He needn't have worried so much though. Noah was just fine living in a huge castle and he already was making fast friends with some of the other gargoyles who lived there. Elryks bestie in particular got on famously with his new mate, much to his annoyance.

I really enjoyed meeting some of the other supernaturals in this book, especially Nessie. It's my hope that Chloe Archer expands on this universe in the future and luckily based on a few tidbits in this book it looks like that may be the case.
Profile Image for AshPenny37 .
1,023 reviews5 followers
October 24, 2024
So when did I discover I have a thing for gargoyle MCs in romance stories? When I read this author's gargoyle book in the series A Highland Gargoyle’s Lucky Star is adjacent to. Though this is part of a multi author series with a tarot card concept, it's actually the start of a Monster Hollow spin-off. Everything expected from this universe is front and centre - bold, sassy human falls for a strong, brilliant Otherkind - but in a Scottish Highlands setting. There's more than a touch of insta as Noah and Elryk are a fated mates couple so it works perfectly, and the book leans nicely into the grumpy/sunshine trope…one of my favourites.

Both MCs are great, with strong characteristics that really shine through in how protective they are of each other, how committed they are to developing their relationship and in the humour they find in each other’s company. Oh yeah, there's a lot of laughs to be had with Noah and Elryk. And movie references galore - it was so entertaining to see how many of Noah's references I got...all of them! The other side of that coin is the serious situation they find themselves in with the task that they have to perform together to preserve the safety of the Terran realm from otherworldly baddies. There's a bit of jeopardy, but the tone is very much on the side of the characters and their relationship; with the threats to the ley line Elryk protects serving as the backdrop.

I really like the side characters, too. Noah's parents are fun, and Elryk’s friends Nassar and Braewyn are great. I'm looking forward to hopefully seeing those guys meet their fated mates, too! In the meantime I'll definitely check out some of the other books in the Tales From The Tarot series.

An ARC was provided by GRR. This is my honest opinion.
Profile Image for San Lemonade.
129 reviews11 followers
October 21, 2024
A Highland Gargoyle's Lucky Star by Chloe Archer
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 stars

📚 18th Book In The Tales From The Tarot Series

The Star Card
Upright: hope, faith, purpose, renewal, spirituality
Reversed: lack of faith, despair, self-trust, disconnection

😍 My first book by Chloe Archer
⬆️ Ebook ARC

😏 Adult MM Paranormal Romance
📖 Fantasy Contemporary
👆 Action & Adventure
📖 Sweet and Captivating Story
🔀 Dual First-Person POV
👉🎬 A Lot Of Movie References 🎞😅
👉😲🤤 Magical Mayhem
🔥🔥 Hotter & Shirtless Gargoyle x Human w/ Underwear Always Has Something Cheeky To Say
🧲😏 Sassy MC Who Attracts Trouble Like Catnip To Cats
😡😁 Grumpy x Sunshine
👉 Opposites Attract 🧲
🧲 Attraction At First Sight
❤️‍🔥💥 Insta-Love
💞 Fated Mates
🥵 Shameless Sinful
😏 Size difference (I love it🥵)
🥵 Spicy: 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
🥵🎶 It's Raining Men (in Kilts)... ALLELUIA...🎶
🤣 Hilarious moments

MC's:
🖍📑📚👉 Noah Price: he/him, human, 26yo, honey-brown eyes, small frame and lean, he's tenderhearted, kind, funny, and bold. Despite his bad luck, he stays positive, like a feisty ray of sunshine.
👉 Born and raised in Chicago, he’s very close to his amazing family. He writes and illustrates LGBTQ+ children’s books but hasn’t been able to get published yet, the publishers keep saying they're looking for "something else." To make things worse, he’s lost twelve jobs in the last nine months and got ghosted by his FWB all on the same night.
(♐️ As always his mom says "he’s just tied to his complicated astrological circumstances!!")
👉 So that when, he stumbles upon a mysterious shop, which feels oddly familiar since he grew up around crystals and aromatherapy (his mother, Delilah, is an astrologer who owned a store called 'Delilah’s Amethyst Moon'). The shop owner offers him a free tarot reading (we know very well who he is 😉), and when Noah chooses the Star card, his life changes. But he must decide what his heart truly desires.
When a late-night call from his mom helps him realize it: his heart’s desire is to go to Scotland. He’s dreamed of it since childhood, a dream strengthened by "Outlander" being filmed there. When he tells his parents, they reveal his grandpa left him an inheritance, enough to make the trip possible.
👉 Upon arriving in London, Noah’s adventures begin. He didn’t expect to fight for his life, but growing up in Chicago’s tough neighborhoods taught him how to be scrappy and brave. Even though he’s small, he can be fierce. He manages to defend himself from his attacker but never expected to end up trying to stop the same person from jumping off a moving train. Without thinking, he tried to help, and things could have worsen if...
👆 Unexpectedly, he’s saved from falling off the train by a mysterious figure, someone he never imagined would be his perfect soulmate. Soon after, with some unexpected surprises, he discovers a rare and powerful gift within himself, one he never knew he had. Now, he must learn how to use it, with the help of the hottest gargoyle, who’s very distracting to be around.

🛡⚔️🤨👉 Elryk DarkWing: he/him, Gargoyle, jade-green eyes, big and brawny. He's broody, serious, and takes his duties as a protector very seriously, but he’s honest and has a big heart. He lives in DarkWing Castle, guarding a powerful magic ley line in the Highlands—a responsibility his clan has upheld for centuries.
👉 When their oracle predicts danger and the arrival of "their savior", Elryk feels an instant connection when he meets said savior aka Noah.
👉 Though he's open to finding his fated mate, Elryk worries that Noah won’t want to stay in the isolated castle. He knows it's not easy being the mate of a Barrier Master, especially since Elryk can’t leave the barrier. What he doesn’t realize, is that Noah is up for the challenge and quickly discovers that he is everything Noah ever wanted (his very own Scottish warrior, just like his Outlander dreams 💭).
👉 Together, Elryk helps Noah harness his new powers, and alongside the other gargoyle warriors, they face the return of a powerful and dangerous enemy.

⚠️ Low-Angst
⚠️ (Past)Death Of A Family Member
👉 Descriptions Of Meals
⚠️ Casual Alcohol Consumption
⚠️ Attempted Non-Consensual Drugging
⚠️ Attempted Kidnapping
⚠️ Physical Violence & Blood Scenes
⚠️ Graphic Gore & Battle
👏 Solid Character Development
💯 Best Side Characters
👉 Can Be Read As A Standalone
😍 Love The Ending
😍 HEA

Cover: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 stars

📖👏 The world in this book is so well-built. Every detail feels rich and immersive, creating a setting that feels as though it could truly exist, wonderfully written, and easy to read .
It’s described with such clarity and depth that you can easily picture every corner of this fantastical realm.
One of the things that I really loved was "Mama Delilah’s Daily Horoscope Reading", in Noah's chapters. It was really creative.


❤️‍🔥 The MCs are simply lovable (Grumpy x Sunshine)👌😅. Their personalities are so well-rounded and relatable, you can’t help but root for them. 🤜🤛🥰 Meanwhile, the side characters shine in their own right.
I'm so excited to read the next books in this Monsters Hollow Series, especially Braewyn and Nessie's story, and maybe a Sorwyn's story?! Please...🙏🙏🙏
They’re amazing and truly deserve their fated mate.
📚

🤩🪄 As expected, the introduction of the character, "The Owner," is perfect and well-developed. I loved it! 😍

✅️ I highly recommend this book. It's a beautifully well written paranormal story.

▪︎FAV QUOTES▪︎

😏x😳 ■ "Elryk: He gifts me with a blindingly bright smile. “You’re awesome. Thanks. Oh! You can touch me too. Fair’s fair. Don’t have wings, but you could touch some other part of me.” He waggles his eyebrows suggestively."


⚡️⚡️ ■ "Noah: But even as the zing of electrical power starts to fade to a hum, something else remains. I don’t know how to describe it exactly. It’s a bit like being wrapped in a heated blanket in the winter—cozy, comfy, and soothing.
I can’t seem to let go of Elryk’s hand, which is so much bigger and rougher than mine, and I stare up into his jade-green eyes. Moving closer, I find myself sniffing and then letting out a dreamy sigh. “You smell really good. Like musk and rain and sandalwood, all mixed up.” I inhale deeply and press closer, wanting to get all up in his personal space. “Mmmmm. Love it.”
Elryk’s eyes flash dangerously, but then he pulls back and swallows, a low rumble sounding in his chest that makes me downright giddy.'"


🌋 ■ "Noah: ...“among those in this clan, we dinnae wear anything underneath.”
Sweet. Baby. Jesus. New weakness activated!" 🚨🚨🚨


👌 ■ "Noah: “So noted, my darling. But I do appreciate you doing this for me.” He leans in and nuzzles my hair, inhaling deeply.
I still. “Uh, what are you doing?”
“I’m smelling you.”
He says that as if it’s the most normal thing in the world.
“Why are you sniffing me?”
“Because you smell fabulous. Like wild heather and gorse bush. Like home.” His voice deepens. “Like mine.”
I shiver all over..." 🔥🔥🔥


🥰 ■ "Noah: I’m startled when he unravels his discarded kilt and covers me with it.
“Wear this, mo ghràidh.”
I try not to let my giddiness show. That’s the second time he’s called me that. He might not realize it, but I understand what that means. I’ve watched Outlander enough to know the Gaelic for “my love.”"


👍I'm definitely going to read this again

Thanks for reading hope this helps you out!

I received this book as a gift from the author and am voluntarily leaving this review.

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Profile Image for Kristel (hungryandhappy).
1,858 reviews91 followers
December 22, 2025
This was so much fun and the narrator of the audiobook is one of my faves. Gary Furlong is amazing and his scottish accent was divine.
I love seeing more of the world outside of Monsters Hollow and here we have the Darkwing clan that we know of because we got to see Vash, Ekryk's cousin, falling in love.
In this book we see unlucky Noah deciding on a Scottish vacation where he finds out his mate in a gargoyle highlands hottie and that he has magical powers that will be needed for a prophesied battle.
The book is plenty fun and plenty steamy, with action and humour. Seeing Elryk and Noah get closer and realise they can't fight the pull was great and so sweet. And hot because omg, those were some sexy scenes, I'm still blushing!
I can't wait for more books in this series!
October 24, 2024
💚 RTC 💚

Tales From The Tarot Series:
💙 4. King Of Hollywood by Fae Quin - 4,5 stars 💙
💜 5. My Minotaur Daddy by Laura Lascarso - 40% DNF For Now 💜
🖤 6. Across Space And Time by Kit Barrie - 10% DNF Forever 🖤
7. Chariot Of Souls by Morgan Mason - 3 stars
💚 8. The Nephilim’s Touch by Morgan Lysand - 4 stars 💚
🧡 9. By Rude Strength by K.L. Hiers - 4 stars 🧡
💛 10. Found In Obscurity by A.M. Rose - 2 stars 💛
💜 14. Death Song by B. Ripley - 42% DNF For Now 💜
💛 17. Camelot's Tower by Brooke Matthews - 5+++ stars 💛
💚 18. A Highland Gargoyle's Lucky Star - 4 stars 💚
💙 19. Trust In The Moon by Delaney Rain - 4 stars 💙
💜 20. Raising The Sun by Eryn Hawk - 4 stars 💜
Profile Image for isthisakink.
1,197 reviews23 followers
October 18, 2024
This series was the perfect place to snuggle in a story from the Monsters Hollow universe. That it’s a spin-off and we know we’ll get more of it just ices the cake on how good it is.

If you already know and love the MH books, you’ll for sure be into this. If not, it’s funny, steamy, swoony, and the fated mates instalust/basically instalove vibes are STRONG. It’s a light, entertaining read that adds some B&G (blood and guts) for razzle-dazzle. The theme of this series is also well-repped.

4.75/5. There’s nothing to dislike here. You’re getting a quality romance with a ton of humour and solid movie references. I will say (with no bearing on rating or opinion) that Amazon ruined the formatting, and I really hate that for the author. That’s not fair considering all the money they pay for things like that. I may have received an ARC, but why not give those pages read when I’m able? Anyway, I can’t wait to see the two authors wreak havoc on their mates together in the rest of the series and spin-off (hopefully), and I’m excited to keep reading through the rest of the TotT series.





**[I received an ARC from Gay Romance Reviews (GRR). All ratings, reviews, and opinions are my own.]**
Profile Image for Demian Grimm.
264 reviews3 followers
November 4, 2024
4.5 ⭐

A Highland Gargoyle's Lucky Star is part of the multi-author Tales from the Tarot series, but is also connected to Chloe Archer's Monsters Hollow series. Despite that, it’s a standalone book and you can jump right into this story without reading the others first. The stories in Tales from the Tarot series all draw inspiration from a different tarot card, and as evident from the title, this book draws its inspiration from the Star card.

This is a fun, light-hearted paranormal romance filled with magic and humour. It tells the story of Noah, a human with a chronic bad luck, and Elryk, a duty-bound gargoyle from the Darkwing clan. Noah is this funny, sassy and nerdy guy with a sunny outlook despite everything he's been through. While Elryk is his total opposite, as a serious, guarded protector who takes his responsibilities a bit too seriously. Their opposites-attract chemistry is charming. And with Noah's humor and optimism balancing Elryk's stoic, duty-bound nature, their personalities fill in the gaps in each other's lives. Their journey to finding love and building a new family together is both sweet and entertaining.

The story is packed with Chloe Archer’s signature humor, playful banter, loads of movie and TV references, and just the right amount of magical mayhem. The dialogue between characters is often snarky and light-hearted, and the humour has the vibe of a teen comedy, with plenty of quick wit and silly moments. If you’re a fan of pop culture, you’ll love spotting all the little nods and Easter eggs scattered throughout the book.
I mean, I don’t think I’m the only one who thinks throwing in a David Tennant reference automatically makes the book even better. ;)

What I loved the most is the books Scottish setting. For me the Scottish setting, with the lore of the Darkwing clan, added a mystical touch to the story. The world-building is wonderful, and it feels rich and full of possibilities. As the story unfolds, we also get to dive deeper into gargoyle culture and explore the magic of this world. There are also some great side characters like Braewyn and Nassar who I hope get their own HEA.
You will also spot some fun nods to characters from earlier books in Monsters Hollow series, especially since Elryk’s brother is Vash DarkWing from book two of that series.

A Highland Gargoyle's Lucky Star is a feel-good, low-angst romance with plenty of action, humour and magical charm. It’s a delightful read for anyone who enjoys a mix of supernatural adventure and sweet love stories. I’m definitely looking forward to read other books in this universe.

I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my unbiased review.

______________________

CW: violence, battle, some gore, injury, attempted kidnapping.
Profile Image for Tab_Reads.
138 reviews7 followers
November 8, 2024
4⭐️ 2🌶️
MOOD: lighthearted, funny, emotional
TROPES: fated mated,
GENRES: contemporary, fantasy, lgbtq+

MAIN CHARACTERS: Noah Price and Elryk Darkwing
TAROT CARD: The Star

THE GOOD: This is a super cute story revolving luck, or the lack of it, and a Scottish gargoyle - how could you not want to read that? The luck angle was super interesting and since I'm someone who does enjoy magical things like ley lines and Loch Ness, those aspects of the story were enjoyable too. As always, Chloe Archer knows how to write a low angst, cozy monster romance.
THE NEUTRAL: Not so much MEH but I guess a heads up - this is a spinoff from Chloe's Monsters Hollow universe, which is mentioned in the preface materials, with a repeat overall villain and some of the Main characters are mentioned. I did notice a name switch - Elryk is called Vash (another Darkwing gargoyle and MC of The Gargoyle and the Romance Writer) at one point but I'm hoping that was fixed before wide release and that didn't affect my rating but if you hadn't read the Monster's Hollow you wouldn't know who that was
THE MEH: I got stuck at like 80% (around Chapter 17) and just didn't have the desire to finish. The final battle was worth it but for a shorter story I did kind of have to force myself to read a few chapters to get there.

CW: sexual content, violence, attempted kidnapping
DISCLAIMER: I received an advance review copy. This is my honest review.
Profile Image for TeeReads.
623 reviews24 followers
October 28, 2024
4.25 stars

I had so much fun with this! I didn't have Scottish gargoyles on my reading bingo card for this year, but here we are, and I'm not upset about it. I really enjoyed the universe in which this story exists. Monsters and mythical creatures just going about their lives openly, with a little magic for the fun of it. I liked that there really wasn't any relationship angst. I was not in the mood for that. All the drama exists outside of the romance. Noah and Elryk really just accept fate and roll with it. All in all, this is a great time. This was my first read by Chloe Archer, and I don't think it will be my last. This Tales From The Tarot series is a lot of fun so far. I really like what each of the authors I've read have done, and Chloe Archer is definitely one of them.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Saskia Veldhuis .
1,892 reviews15 followers
October 26, 2024
Noah not giving up on himself after suffering through the most appalling bad luck is impressive, and staying so sunny and positive is amazing. His use of language is inventive and hilarious, I would happily read more books full of that specifically. There was a lot of action and emotional development packed into a few days, but it worked. I'd be very interested in reading more about this world.
Profile Image for nic✨.
334 reviews17 followers
October 29, 2024
this was such a cute and fun read. I loved reading about Noah and his fated gargoyle mate. It was really enjoyable to see their meet cute and how grumpy Elryk was. This author sure knows how to hook a reader in and I can’t wait to see what else they have in store.
Profile Image for Stephanie Murillo.
184 reviews1 follower
October 20, 2024
Great book!

Another great by this author! Definitely hoping there will be a next book for this clan. Amazing storyline from start to end.
Profile Image for DLB2572.
3,243 reviews26 followers
October 19, 2024
I Loved It

I absolutely loved this story. Noah and Elryk were so much fun to read about and I loved how it was also connected to another of Chloe Archer's series. I would love to read more about the DarkWing clan.

I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
Profile Image for Cynthia M Brow.
1,290 reviews17 followers
December 14, 2025
A Highland Gargoyle's Lucky Star is one of the books in the multi author Tales from the Tarot series. Each book can be read as a standalone but why not enjoy the rest of the series. This is the story of Noah a human with chronic bad luck and Elryk a gargoyle from the Darkwing clan. The magic shop strikes again with another tarot card, this time the star card. Chloe Archer made me laugh out loud so many times while reading this book. I loved the plot and all the side characters so much. Noah and Elryk are perfect for each other because they both have something in their personality that the other needs. I want more books in the world that Chloe Archer created and I hope we get them. If get the audio narration, Gary Furlong does a wonderful job of narrating this book. He makes the change in characters seamlessly. This book was so fun to listen to. I would definitely recommend this book and series as 5 star reads.
655 reviews16 followers
October 20, 2024
A Highland Gargoyle’s Lucky Star by Chloe Archer is the first book in her Tales from the Tarot series. It is the story of a guardian gargoyle and a human with bad luck who has some special powers and how they confront evil as they discover they are fated mates and fall in love. Noah Price has had bad luck for as long as he can remember and can’t figure out why. Then one night, after he has been fired from his 12th job in 9 months, he passes a shop where an odd looking man comes out and can tell he is in need of guidance. He offers him a free tarot reading and when Noah chooses the star card it changes his life. He decides his heart’s desire is to go to Scotland, which he has loved since a child especially since Outlander was filmed there, and when he confides in his parents they tell him that his grandfather has left him an inheritance that will allow him to go there with some left over. His adventures start as soon as he arrives in London when he feels a strange electrical zap through his body and meets some Otherkind who mention what he is but he doesn’t understand. He saves some people in a weird accident and then heads to Scotland, not knowing that others have figured out who and what he is and want him. When he gets caught up with one of them, he falls out of the train and is suddenly scooped up by Elryk DarkWing, a gargoyle who takes him to their castle in the highlands that is shrouded from humans. It is there that their Orcale tells them 3 things: there is a threat coming from the west, someone has arrived to help them, and she foresees the coming of new blood and fated mates. It turns out that Elryk is the only Barrier Master left who can charge and strengthen the barrier while also keeping the magic from the most powerful ley lines around that lie under the castle from outsiders that may want to steal it for their own malevolent purposes. He tries his best but needs help to make it stronger and it turns out Noah is the one to help him. And he’s also his fated mate. But Noah has no clue that he has powers so he has to learn about them and how to control and use them which he does with some help from an interesting highland creature as well as the rest of the gargoyles at the castle. Meanwhile Elryk is worried that Noah may not want to stay at the castle because he can’t leave and there is nothing around them but Noah is up to the challenge as he realizes that Elryk is everything he has ever wanted, and believe me, with all the references to Outlander and other TV series that captivate him, he knows what he wants which leads to some very hot love scenes as he discovers just what a Gargoyle can do in bed! Then the other predictions come true with some bad mystical beings attacking the castle for the power but they are vanquished with Elryk leading the way and both of them know they are fated mates and want to be together forever. I really enjoyed this book, in fact it is one of my favorites from my reading this year. Noah is snarky yet strong and is willing to do whatever it takes to protect Elryk, the castle, the ley lines, and the other gargoyles that he considers his family. Elryk is stoic and somewhat grumpy but he wants Noah to do what is best for him, even if it means he leaves him. Luckily Noah does not want to do that. Braewyn, Elryk’s best friend, is also up to teasing both of them, and also helps defend the castle. Mama Delilah’s Daily Horoscope Readings give a hint at what is to come in each chapter as well as excerpts from ‘Guardians of the Line: A Hidden History’ by Dr. Targan Wildthorne that gives information about gargoyles and what they do. It is also interesting how Noah acquired his powers and why he had bad luck for all those years. There is a lot of funny happenings and banter throughout the book and I love how the creature that helped Noah with his powers is someone that we never would have guessed had that ability. This book kept me highly entertained as well as on the edge of my seat throughout. I highly recommend it, especially if you like stories about a gargoyle and the human that helps him protect the world, something that is out to take it all away, lots of action and romance, and finally fated mates that fall in love.
2,835 reviews3 followers
October 28, 2024
very entertaining, great story

Rating: 4🌈

A Highland Gargoyle's Lucky Star, while definitely in the Tales from the Tarot multi-author series, is firmly rooted in Chloe Archer’s Monster Hollow universe and her latest novel from that, The Gargoyle and the Romance Writer.

The main gargoyle characters here (and an unfortunate member under going punishment here), are met for the first time in that book. And in a delightful fashion, several characters get mentioned here too in terms of written passages from their own books or novels. It will make the reader seek out those novels to see what happens with them and their romantic adventures.

But there’s plenty to keep a reader entertained and invested in the shenanigans and adventures of one outgoing, positive human, Noah Price , and his gargoyle fated mate, Elryk DarkWing.

From the moment he connects with The Magic Shop and its mysterious Owner who, with the gift of a tarot reading, Noah gets a renewed happy energy and direction in his life that sees him flying off to Scotland and his fate.

Archer’s character of Noah is instantly likable. Positive and outgoing without being naive, able to take care of himself, he’s so easy to connect with. Easily that American abroad in Scotland or human amidst a bunch of otherworldly beings, he’s that person who can make it work either way.

This is a fated mate instant bonding relationship but it does work here because of Noah and Elryk. Archer has them in an isolated place and precarious situation, and then creates other characters we can equally enjoy and relate to as a support group for them.

As this is the first is a new sequel series set in Scotland, I can’t wait to see the others get their partners/fated mates too. Should be entertaining as this one.

If you’re a fan of Archer’s Monster Hollow series or the author, definitely grab this up. The characters are charming, the story entertaining, and the ending satisfying. I look forward to the next one in this series.


Tales from the Tarot- 22 books

🔷 Where Fools Have Tread by Jennifer Cody❤️
🔷The Magician's Heart by J.P. Jackson
🔷Cleric of Desire by Amanda Meuwissen❤️
🔷The Nephilim’s Touch by Morgan Lysand
🔷King of Hollywood by Fae Quin
🔷My Minotaur Daddy: An MM Romantasy by Laura Lascarso
🔷Across Space and Time by Kit Barrie
🔷Chariot of Souls by Morgan Mason
🔷By Rude Strength ❤️by K.L. Hiers
🔷Found in Obscurity by A. M. Rose
🔷Twisted Fates by Adam J. Ridley
🔷No Justice for the Damned by Hellie Heat
🔷The Angel's Kiss by Nicholas Bella
🔷Death Song by B. Ripley
🔷Arcanum by Ashlyn Drewek
🔷The Devil's Dilemma by Alex J. Adams
🔷Camelot's Tower by Brooke Matthews
🔷A Highland Gargoyle's Lucky Star
by Chloe Archer
🔷Trust in the Moon by Delaney Rain
🔷Raising the Sun by Eryn Hawk
🔷Zero Judgment by Kota Quinn
🔷The End of the World by Drake LaMarque
Profile Image for Sandy Kay.
754 reviews60 followers
October 29, 2024
Sweet and steamy fated mates human-gargoyle PNR

This little charmer is short but sweet, featuring human MC Noah, who might have a touch of different heritage to him, and gargoyle MC Elryk, a guardian of Scotland’s most powerful ley line.

Noah’s always had the worst possible luck, and when his most recent fiasco leaves him jobless and directionless, a random visit to a magic shop and a tarot reading has him drawing the Star card, seizing the day, and traveling off to Scotland to live his lifelong dream of surrounding himself with natural beauty and hot men in kilts.

As he lands in the UK, he experiences a strange, sizzling energy burst. But carries on…and meets several otherkind (they’re around and normal in the world) who start talking about conduits. When a near-disaster involving a runaway bus brings attention Noah doesn’t want, he slips away to catch his train to Edinburgh…and a startling and dangerous confrontation leads to him being swept away by a strong and silent type gargoyle. Cue…

Elryk DarkWing is the last guardian to be able to channel the magic of the most powerful ley line around. When he learns there’s talk of a Conduit being sighted in Britain, he and his family know they must find the Conduit before their enemies do, because such a powerful person could be used for great good or great evil. Rescuing Noah in the nick of time, Elryk brings him home to the secret hidden gargoyle castle…and realizes this man is his fated mate and the conduit-magic is directly complementary to his own power in every way. Exactly what they need to shore up the gargoyles' magic and ley line defenses. But how can he ever dream Noah will want to stay with him, secluded from the world, with barely any ability to travel for longer than a few days lest the ley line be tapped by evil? And now a deadly enemy is approaching…

Their romance is sweet, charming, sexy, full of great adult communication and fun. I love fated mates, and their growing connection and bond combined with the “will he stay or won’t he” question made for an entertaining read. I enjoyed seeing them together, and while it’s not the deepest story, it delivers a delightful few hours entertainment and just what’s promised—a sweet and steamy fated mates story with danger and magic abounding. Secondary characters add layers and promise of future tales to the read—their oracle has foreseen more fated mates on the way! I particularly liked Noah’s mom and dad, and Nessie, the Loch Ness guardian. And all the gargoyles.

HEA, fated mates, human-gargoyle pairing, size difference, magic. No cheating, no other-person drama at all (though could have used fewer mentions of Noah’s former lovers, apparently there were many; none are named, but, just be quiet about it already?!). Recommended.

My thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for the ARC; this is my free and impartial opinion.
Profile Image for Bette.
3,284 reviews24 followers
December 17, 2025
Magically Amazing Story, Narration & Listen🎧

A Highland Gargoyle's Lucky Star
DarkWing Clan , Book 1
By: Chloe Archer
Narrated by: Gary Furlong

Chloe Archer does it again, penning another wonderful novel, a paranormal fantasy male/male romance novel that captivates your attention, warms your heart and puts a smile on your face. Noah Price’ luck has never been good, and he has a tendency to attract trouble, but he never lets that bring him down or break his spirit. He leaves for an adventure, a trip of a lifetime to the place he always wanted to go, Scotland, and not just for the Scottish men in kilts. His trip starts off with a hitch, which he handles in a Noah way, but after a wild encounter on the train, his luck is about to change in the most amazing of ways, thanks to Elryk, a gargoyle and guard with the DarkWing clan in the Highlands. Noah was a hit with the other gargoyles, lots of laughs, but getting Elryk on board is another story. These two were great together and for each other, Elryk was super protective, but Noah was not as fragile as he first thought. Noah brings hope to the others in the clan, hope they will find their own mates, plus abilities to strengthen the clan. Archer created a fascinating tale, a fun and adventurous journey for Noah, a learning experience, finding his people, his power and his fated mate. I loved all the layers of the story and how it all played out, with amazing humor and witty dialogue, drama, a touch of angst, exciting twists and turns, heartfelt emotions and steamy romance. As always, the writing, plot and world building are fantastic, as are the character growth and development. Chloe Archer, thank you for another fabulously entertaining story and wild ride.

🎧📚🎧 Gary Furlong’s talent and versatility truly shine as he delivers an exceptional performance voicing these characters, handling the witty dialogue with ease and landing the humor effortlessly. Believable in every role, giving each character their own distinct voice, making it easy to follow along and tell who was who. He nailed it as both lead characters, Noah and Elryk, showcasing both of their personalities perfectly, and he was just as fabulous embodying the roles of the side and secondary characters too. Furlong is an entertaining storyteller, and his captivating performance not only keeps you glued to the story, but he takes the already amazing story to another level.
Profile Image for Mu.
268 reviews
November 2, 2024
The Star in the Tales from the Tarot series! As of reading this, there are only two more left in the series for me! The upright Star representing hope, faith, purpose, renewal, and spirituality. The reverse being lack of faith, despair, self-trust, and disconnection.
The book starts in the reverse and slowly moves into the upright as represented by the relationship between Noah and Elryk.

To start off, I have something very silly to confess. I thought his name was Elyryk this whole time. I don't know where I got that extra Y or if I'm just delulu.

While reading this book, I just really got the feeling that the author loves Scotland. Looking at Chloe Archer's Goodreads biography, my suspicions are confirmed.
"She’s hoping to relocate to Scotland permanently in the next few years if the stars align."
No shade intended though, simply an observation.

I would say this book felt like a speed run almost. Everything in it happens really quickly. It spent a decent amount of time on all the different plot points but as soon as it was resolved, it moved straight onto the next one. It's not necessarily bad or good, it's just convenient. Like Noah picking up on his powers after a couple tries.
Definitely I feel like it's due to the constraints of it being a shorter book.

The author does warn you in the beginning there are a lot of movie references. There's also a ton of memes as well. I did not expect to see the words 'Le Sigh' in 2024. I'll say it every single time though. Cringe is dead, enjoy what you like, be free!
So of course, personally Noah's bombastic personality does not bother me but I can understand it won't be everyones cup of tea.

Both of the characters are fairly simple but there are some cute moments between the two of them. I do like how much they're into each other. It's sweet.

Like I said though, this book is quick. So we're also talking about the relationship being extremely fast. They are confessing their love to each other in a matter of days.

If you just want some sweet, silly, and sappy love story, this'll be up your alley. Don't think too hard, just enjoy the ride.
Profile Image for Josie.
1,409 reviews13 followers
December 21, 2025
4.25⭐️
Audio: 4.75⭐️


This is sweet, light-hearted fare where the stakes/sense of danger are low. It takes place after Elryk’s brother Vash finds his mate in the Monsters Hollow series, which causes Elryk’s buried loneliness and wish for more freedom to surface. Elryk’s clan has been entrusted to protect a key ley line, and he’s honored and dedicated to being the Guardian that upholds the barrier around it.

However, he’s resigned himself to being alone because he worries that the constraints and responsibilities of being his partner would be unfair. He can’t leave the area for more than a few days, and even if he found someone to court, the chances they’d want to live in the remote Highlands are slim. Guardians are supposed to have fated mates to overcome this, but his clan hasn’t had any in years and bumping into them is improbable. . . unless you're Noah.

Noah has epic bad luck, the kind that hurts and disrupts others’ lives too so it prohibits lasting relationships and jobs. Yet, he’s positive, confident, fun-loving and fierce. Meeting Elryk is wish fulfillment and ample recompense as he gets an amalgamation of all his Outlander/Gargoyles dreams. He also discovers his calling, unlocks magical powers, and levels up as fast as an 80’s montage. Elryk’s shocked to meet his fated-mate, and his concerns make him reluctant to be with Noah. Still, the pull is strong, and Noah’s sassy strength, generous and courageous personality, and delight in living in the clan is irresistible.

This is definitely the Noah show, but Elryk has his own grumpy charm. All the characters are fun, and Archer does a good job sowing seeds for their upcoming books w/o them stealing the show. Outside the first threat to Noah, the action feels secondary, and there’re things that don’t make sense e.g. not questioning someone who might give them information early on. The focus is on the MCs’ relationship, establishing the Darkwing clan, and training Noah.

I definitely enjoyed this book a bit more because of Gary Furlong’s performance. His comedic timing, choices, and voices are in top form. He seems to have so much fun with Noah’s spunky and cheeky personality; his energetic line delivery makes all the dialogue and jokes pop. This story is entertaining, and Furlong makes it an absolute blast.
Profile Image for Theresa Derwin.
1,135 reviews43 followers
November 4, 2024
A HIGHLAND GARGOYLE’S LUCKY STAR TALES FROM THE TAROT CHLOE ARCHER
Noah has just lost his twelth job in nine months; a new record for him. His mother, Delilah Price, who runs a psychic business, told him his permanent bad luck was being born under the wrong moon.
On his way home after his latest set of incidents -
Fired, book rejection and his booty call is now in a relationship and blocks him - he literally falls across and into The Magic Shop. The shop used in the multi-author series of Arcane Tarot LGBTQIA+ romances.
However, as with the other books, Archer blends this scenario into her own worlds.
Readers will recognise this author ....
—Guardians of the Line: A Hidden History, by Dr. Targan Wildethorne
She also utilises her epistolary style with sections from texts and from "Mama Delilah’s Daily Horoscope Reading.
I love that Archer does this and in every novel she writes it becomes larger and more fun.
After his really bad day, Noah's mom tells him his grandad put away funds for him to use at the right time. As a fan of Outlander and Scottish blokes in kilts, he heads off for the dream holiday to Scotland.
In the Castle in Scotland we have our gargoyles. Kelywn and the Oracle plus Elryk related to Vashyk of Monsters Hollow books 1 and 2.
A newly awakened Conduit has been spotted in London and the gargoyles at the Castle in Scotland must find him before anyone else gets to him first.
Elryk is the last of the Barrier Masters since his grandad passed away and a conduit will help strength him and the barrier
Then there's also the promise that fated mates are coming.
This is everything you want and expect from a Chloe Archer book; chaos, but fun chaos, romance, spice, adorable sweet mates, action, resolution, lots of laughter and a HEA.
More Gargoyles please!
Profile Image for Megan McGrath .
578 reviews5 followers
October 28, 2024
Noah & Elryk
I love Noah's relationship with his mother. They seem very close, and I love how supportive she is of Noah and pushes him to find what he needs to make his life better.

I loved having the chance to really dive into Elryk's story. We know of him from his brother Vash's book in the Monster's Hollow series, and it's great to get the information regarding his position in the clan as a Barrier Master. It's an important position that was bestowed upon him, and he takes his role very seriously. Knowing that he would someday have a mate to share his burden stressed him out because he's such a sensitive gargoyle and never wanted to put that life onto anyone else. But his first interactions with Noah were so powerful, that he knew he couldn't avoid their bond even if he'd tried. It was incredibly sweet --while also incredibly spicy-- and I loved how the two men continued to work together to enhance their love along with their powers. Noah had a lot to overcome to find himself, but Scotland and Elryk were his anchors and he knew he was where he needed to be, no matter how many times Elryk tried to make it sound like he shouldn't stay.

As with all Chloe Archer novels I've delved into, A Highland Gargoyle's Lucky Star was just as incredible as I'd imagined. I cannot get over the depth of the visual details; they really enhance and engage the imagination in such a way that you almost feel like you're truly there with the characters.

I seriously hope that Nasser has a story sooner rather than later. He sounds very worthy of one. Are we also meant to assume the lads Noah met on the train will be involved in future stories as well? If that is the case, I'm excited to see who will pair with whom. I don't know how many stories following the Highland Gargoyles will be written, but I'm guessing something for at least Braewyn, Kelwyn, and Sorwyn. 🤞

I received an advance copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
Profile Image for Zoë Miranda.
602 reviews10 followers
October 28, 2024
Major Arcana Card: The Star

1st person, present tense, dual POV
Noah David Price, human Conduit
Elryk DarkWing, gargoyle Barrier Master


Fated mates is a bit of a hard sell for me. I know I read light fluffy romance complete with HEAs practically guaranteed, but I prefer for a couple to connect, build their relationship and choose each other rather than be presented with what is essentially a fait accompli. I find the chemistry often feels shallow as fate takes care of all those pesky details like exploring compatibility. Thankfully, while I found the romance not entirely to my taste, the story was very engaging and I could not put this book down.

I loved Noah and Elryk together, their opposites attract dynamic is one I never tire off. Elryk's possessive rumbles and instincts were hot (yes, like Goliath) though. I loved how well they worked together, bringing out the best in each other.

This was a bit of a slower burn in the bedroom as the guys had other priorities; ley lines to tap into, barriers to strengthen and an invading army of Sluagh. I'd have liked a little more from those storylines, especially from the angle of Noah being a target for his newly awakened powers as a Conduit as on the whole thing transpired a little too seamlessly with Noah learning to wield his new powers like the chosen one and the horde being defeated relatively quickly.

I loved all the secondary characters, especially Nessie (yes, that Nessie) and Elryk's best friend, Braewyn, the banter was wonderful and everyone's personality shone off the page, making for an bonny story.

As a whole, I loved this book but I'm not a huge fan of it essentially being the first book of a new series while being part of another multi-authored series like this. At the end of the day, the Tarot angle is a little weak with this installment and even with the 'series' as a whole so I'm not really sure what the point is.

I enjoy Chloe's zany writing style so it's no surprise that I enjoyed this story and can't wait for more.

I was given an ARC and voluntarily wrote an honest review.
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