What do you think?
Rate this book
The Shadow Deception: A Pix and Gabe Adventure
A 2024 Wishing Shelf Book Awards bronze winner.
Pixies play pranks. That’s what we do.
Except my latest trick got me banished to the human realm, with that grumpy angel Gabe as my guardian.
While Gabe is determined to stop me from putting a wing out of line, I discover he has more secrets than a toad’s got warts, including a mysterious trinket crafted by my long-lost dad.
When I’m kidnapped by an army of imps, their scary human leader tells me that the trinket holds more power than I can imagine.
What’s more, he’ll tell me what happened to my dad… If I get it for him.
Making stink bombs stinky enough used to be my biggest worry. Now, it’s who to trust more. The guardian angel who never answers my questions or the imp leader who scares the pixie dust off me?
Rich with sass and secrets, The Shadow Deception is a fast-paced, action-packed adventure story that will keep you on the edge of your toadstool.
Pixies play pranks. That’s what we do.
Except my latest trick got me banished to the human realm, with that grumpy angel Gabe as my guardian.
While Gabe is determined to stop me from putting a wing out of line, I discover he has more secrets than a toad’s got warts, including a mysterious trinket crafted by my long-lost dad.
When I’m kidnapped by an army of imps, their scary human leader tells me that the trinket holds more power than I can imagine.
What’s more, he’ll tell me what happened to my dad… If I get it for him.
Making stink bombs stinky enough used to be my biggest worry. Now, it’s who to trust more. The guardian angel who never answers my questions or the imp leader who scares the pixie dust off me?
Rich with sass and secrets, The Shadow Deception is a fast-paced, action-packed adventure story that will keep you on the edge of your toadstool.
- GenresFantasy
237 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 12, 2024
About the author
Kate Machon
4 books15 followersKate grew up in the Midlands in the UK, but escaped to the island of Jersey at the age of twenty. Her working life has been spent with numbers, but her head has always been full of stories. One day, she decided to write them down. Now she spends her time creating fantastical characters and places.
She lives with her husband and two children. When not at her keyboard, she can be found walking her two rescue dogs or looking after her cheeky Shetland pony and tortoise.
She is currently working on book 3 in the Pix and Gabe Adventure series.
She lives with her husband and two children. When not at her keyboard, she can be found walking her two rescue dogs or looking after her cheeky Shetland pony and tortoise.
She is currently working on book 3 in the Pix and Gabe Adventure series.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
June 21, 2024
This was an amazing magical MG read! It has been a while since I have picked up and read a middle-grade novel and this brought back all the nostalgia of how fun they can be when they are well written!
The Shadow Deception by Kate Machon was a fun, witty story with amazing characters! You can't help falling in love with Pix (Ariadne) who portrayed the exact personality I pictured of a pixie and the banter between the ever aloof Gabe was perfect.
This world really brings out your imagination in the best way and I 100% recommend to younger audiences and adults who still have that spark for magic.
This story keeps you on your toes and and takes you through a wonderful adventure with an ending that had me smiling from ear to ear!
While I still enjoy these types of stories now into adulthood, I know for a fact my younger self would have been addicted to this story and future adventures that these characters will go on!
Thank you to Kate Machon, BooksGoSocial & NetGalley for an advanced reader copy (ARC) in exchange for my honest review.
The Shadow Deception by Kate Machon was a fun, witty story with amazing characters! You can't help falling in love with Pix (Ariadne) who portrayed the exact personality I pictured of a pixie and the banter between the ever aloof Gabe was perfect.
This world really brings out your imagination in the best way and I 100% recommend to younger audiences and adults who still have that spark for magic.
This story keeps you on your toes and and takes you through a wonderful adventure with an ending that had me smiling from ear to ear!
While I still enjoy these types of stories now into adulthood, I know for a fact my younger self would have been addicted to this story and future adventures that these characters will go on!
Thank you to Kate Machon, BooksGoSocial & NetGalley for an advanced reader copy (ARC) in exchange for my honest review.
July 19, 2024
I got introduced to Gabe and Pixie on twitter. I was thrilled to find out Kate a Machon had written a whole adventure about them and I was not disappointed. When Pixie's prank goes wrong, she is temporarily banished from the fairy realm and stuck with angel Gabe who is meant to supervise her rehabilitation. What she doesn't expect is that there is more to Gabe's strict exterior and that the two will be called to save the world.
Sweet, whimsical and heartwarming the Shadow Deception will delight younger and older audiences. alike. Wholeheartedly recommend.
Sweet, whimsical and heartwarming the Shadow Deception will delight younger and older audiences. alike. Wholeheartedly recommend.
July 12, 2024
Bursting with adventure, humour and heart, this book is an absolute gem!
The meticulous worldbuilding coupled with charming characters swept me away, and I had to read the entire thing in one sitting. The story is engaging, with fun, realistic banter between Pixie and Gabe, and Pixie herself is a tiny whirlwind of vibrant energy who instantly worms her way into your heart.
While the overall vibe is bright, edgy and entertaining, scenes with the antagonist bring enough suspense to give the novel some heft. I was on the edge of my seat far more than I expected to be, and I haven't rooted for characters as much as I have for this duo in a long time.
Also, I must praise the author's talent for the fact that reading this book is the only time in my life I've felt affection for a spider!
If you're looking for a fun escape from the daily mundane, you've found the right book. The Shadow Deception is definitely one of my favourite reads of 2024.
(I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily - but I have also bought a copy for my bookshelf because it's one of those stories that begs to be reread!)
The meticulous worldbuilding coupled with charming characters swept me away, and I had to read the entire thing in one sitting. The story is engaging, with fun, realistic banter between Pixie and Gabe, and Pixie herself is a tiny whirlwind of vibrant energy who instantly worms her way into your heart.
While the overall vibe is bright, edgy and entertaining, scenes with the antagonist bring enough suspense to give the novel some heft. I was on the edge of my seat far more than I expected to be, and I haven't rooted for characters as much as I have for this duo in a long time.
Also, I must praise the author's talent for the fact that reading this book is the only time in my life I've felt affection for a spider!
If you're looking for a fun escape from the daily mundane, you've found the right book. The Shadow Deception is definitely one of my favourite reads of 2024.
(I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily - but I have also bought a copy for my bookshelf because it's one of those stories that begs to be reread!)
July 17, 2024
Charming tale about a wayward pixie and her minder-angel
Ariadne is a rambunctious pixie who has played one too many practical jokes. As punishment, the Queen of the faeries has banished her to the realm of humans with an Angel named Gabe as her minder.
The book is a delightful romp as it depicts Ariadne’s growth from a self-centered, kind-hearted pixie to a hard-working, innovative savior. Highly recommend.
Ariadne is a rambunctious pixie who has played one too many practical jokes. As punishment, the Queen of the faeries has banished her to the realm of humans with an Angel named Gabe as her minder.
The book is a delightful romp as it depicts Ariadne’s growth from a self-centered, kind-hearted pixie to a hard-working, innovative savior. Highly recommend.
August 3, 2024
Adored it
I read this in two days, and that's a record for me. Loved Kate’s prose, wit, and development of heartwarming relationships. But what truly impressed me was Ariadne (Pix) and Gabe’s dynamics. The way it evolved was so believable and wonderfully written. Looking forward to many of their adventures.
I read this in two days, and that's a record for me. Loved Kate’s prose, wit, and development of heartwarming relationships. But what truly impressed me was Ariadne (Pix) and Gabe’s dynamics. The way it evolved was so believable and wonderfully written. Looking forward to many of their adventures.
September 19, 2024
A Brilliant Romp
A rompish pixie and an angel with some secrets set out on a mission. As they argue, spat, and enjoy a mutual love of brownies (the food not the creature), the two also settle into an uneasy and tenuous admiration of each other.
Told with whimsy and superlative writing, this is a story all ages might enjoy.
Highly recommended
A rompish pixie and an angel with some secrets set out on a mission. As they argue, spat, and enjoy a mutual love of brownies (the food not the creature), the two also settle into an uneasy and tenuous admiration of each other.
Told with whimsy and superlative writing, this is a story all ages might enjoy.
Highly recommended
March 27, 2025
An adventurous tale with lots of action and emotion-eliciting scenes. Pix and Gabe make a great duo, despite their differences. The entire cast of characters have endearing qualities that make this an enjoyable book.
July 25, 2024
Pix and Gabe are an unlikely duo who find a kind of friendship amongst their difficult tasks.
This is a sweet tale that draws one into their adventures with gasps. Even when you think you have perceived which way things will go, Kate adds a little intrigue to keep the story turning smoothly. For me and I hope there's more to follow, and I'm sure others will agree, as it's a well written story.
This is a sweet tale that draws one into their adventures with gasps. Even when you think you have perceived which way things will go, Kate adds a little intrigue to keep the story turning smoothly. For me and I hope there's more to follow, and I'm sure others will agree, as it's a well written story.
July 17, 2024
A fab read, ideal for the target audience and for adults alike. Gabe and Pixie are such interesting characters in a stunning fictional world. I received an ARC for this book.
June 26, 2024
What worked:
The story is told through the eyes of an unruly, feisty, self-centered pixie who’s been sent to the world of humans to atone for her dangerous antics. Pix will be exiled from the faery world if she messes up this chance for redemption. However, the threat doesn’t stop her from making sassy comments to her guardian or being mischievous at every opportunity. Pix’s prickly personality makes her an unusual protagonist. However, readers will become fond of Pix as she gradually changes her attitude and learns to see how her actions affect others.
The plot includes several secrets that add intrigue and mystery to the main storyline. The queen appoints an angel as Pix’s guardian but his patience and understanding are constantly tested by Pix’s sharp tongue and impulsiveness. Gabe won’t share any thoughts with her and she’s getting tired of the strictness of his rules and procedures. Pix suspects something’s going on with him and she wonders if it has anything to do with her missing father. She’s also confused that he’s not more concerned about the imps they find. Why is an imp hiding in a human’s bookbag and why have hundreds of imps congregated inside a human school? Gabe may not be worried but Pix is determined to find out what’s going on.
Pix insists magic doesn’t exist despite the charms and potions that are concocted; she says it’s only science. Gabe can cloak a van from being seen by humans and he masks his physical appearance from them in a similar way. Pix “scientifically” grows in size when entering the van and immediately shrinks to pixie size upon leaving. These constant transformations are annoying for her character and result in mild, fairy swearing. “Dancing dung beetles” and “badger’s buttocks” are examples of her colorful tongue. Pix’s special talent is creating charms and she uses it to cause more mischief and later resolve sticky problems. Pix idolizes her father and watching him create special, powerful charms helps her better understand the growing threat to the fairy, human, and imp worlds.
What didn’t work as well:
The story moves around quite a bit so readers may sometimes have trouble feeling immersed in the different settings. The focus is on the characters and action, as it should be, but the settings may feel generic. This isn’t a large problem or concern as the other story elements are done so well.
The final verdict:
The author creates engaging, amusing characters and relationships in an emotional, fun-filled adventure. Pix’s flamboyant, energetic personality carries the story, and her dynamic character will appeal to most middle-grade readers. Overall, this is a non-stop thrill ride with an unpredictable pixie and I recommend you give it a shot.
The story is told through the eyes of an unruly, feisty, self-centered pixie who’s been sent to the world of humans to atone for her dangerous antics. Pix will be exiled from the faery world if she messes up this chance for redemption. However, the threat doesn’t stop her from making sassy comments to her guardian or being mischievous at every opportunity. Pix’s prickly personality makes her an unusual protagonist. However, readers will become fond of Pix as she gradually changes her attitude and learns to see how her actions affect others.
The plot includes several secrets that add intrigue and mystery to the main storyline. The queen appoints an angel as Pix’s guardian but his patience and understanding are constantly tested by Pix’s sharp tongue and impulsiveness. Gabe won’t share any thoughts with her and she’s getting tired of the strictness of his rules and procedures. Pix suspects something’s going on with him and she wonders if it has anything to do with her missing father. She’s also confused that he’s not more concerned about the imps they find. Why is an imp hiding in a human’s bookbag and why have hundreds of imps congregated inside a human school? Gabe may not be worried but Pix is determined to find out what’s going on.
Pix insists magic doesn’t exist despite the charms and potions that are concocted; she says it’s only science. Gabe can cloak a van from being seen by humans and he masks his physical appearance from them in a similar way. Pix “scientifically” grows in size when entering the van and immediately shrinks to pixie size upon leaving. These constant transformations are annoying for her character and result in mild, fairy swearing. “Dancing dung beetles” and “badger’s buttocks” are examples of her colorful tongue. Pix’s special talent is creating charms and she uses it to cause more mischief and later resolve sticky problems. Pix idolizes her father and watching him create special, powerful charms helps her better understand the growing threat to the fairy, human, and imp worlds.
What didn’t work as well:
The story moves around quite a bit so readers may sometimes have trouble feeling immersed in the different settings. The focus is on the characters and action, as it should be, but the settings may feel generic. This isn’t a large problem or concern as the other story elements are done so well.
The final verdict:
The author creates engaging, amusing characters and relationships in an emotional, fun-filled adventure. Pix’s flamboyant, energetic personality carries the story, and her dynamic character will appeal to most middle-grade readers. Overall, this is a non-stop thrill ride with an unpredictable pixie and I recommend you give it a shot.
July 11, 2024
Dancing dung beetles, this is fabulous!
A madcap young pixie has played a prank too far, putting the faery world in jeopardy. Her punishment is banishment to the human realm under the guardianship of a rather humourless angel named Gabe.
As the two characters inevitably clash, mysteries surface and fabulous adventures ensue. Can the two learn to work together to put not just one, but three worlds to rights?
The characterisation is nothing short of marvellous in this story. The contrast between sparky, mischievous Ariadne Greenlegs aka Pix, and Gabe the angel who does absolutely everything by the book, is great. Pix is impulsive, stroppy and cheeky, while Gabe is ruled by rational thought and dismisses intuition and emotion. And there’s a super cast of supporting characters – a Bond-style villain amongst them. I was particularly drawn to the strangely endearing giant spider.
I also enjoyed the inventiveness – the ways and beings of the faery realm, from Pix’s expressions and charms to the rainbow surfing, tree-shaping and other superpowers. (OK, Pix – NOT magic!)
It’s a captivating novel which works like a charm. You’re enchanted into the world and feel quite disorientated when you slip back into the human realm. I did occasionally have a little trouble following the action or picturing the settings. But maybe I’m lacking the imagination of a younger reader.
“The Shadow Deception” is a pixie-dust-sprinkled, high-energy adventure, mystery and comedy in a fantasy world. Definitely recommended for 9 – 12s of all ages – faery, angel or human!
(Thank you to the author for the free advance copy. I am voluntarily leaving this review.)
A madcap young pixie has played a prank too far, putting the faery world in jeopardy. Her punishment is banishment to the human realm under the guardianship of a rather humourless angel named Gabe.
As the two characters inevitably clash, mysteries surface and fabulous adventures ensue. Can the two learn to work together to put not just one, but three worlds to rights?
The characterisation is nothing short of marvellous in this story. The contrast between sparky, mischievous Ariadne Greenlegs aka Pix, and Gabe the angel who does absolutely everything by the book, is great. Pix is impulsive, stroppy and cheeky, while Gabe is ruled by rational thought and dismisses intuition and emotion. And there’s a super cast of supporting characters – a Bond-style villain amongst them. I was particularly drawn to the strangely endearing giant spider.
I also enjoyed the inventiveness – the ways and beings of the faery realm, from Pix’s expressions and charms to the rainbow surfing, tree-shaping and other superpowers. (OK, Pix – NOT magic!)
It’s a captivating novel which works like a charm. You’re enchanted into the world and feel quite disorientated when you slip back into the human realm. I did occasionally have a little trouble following the action or picturing the settings. But maybe I’m lacking the imagination of a younger reader.
“The Shadow Deception” is a pixie-dust-sprinkled, high-energy adventure, mystery and comedy in a fantasy world. Definitely recommended for 9 – 12s of all ages – faery, angel or human!
(Thank you to the author for the free advance copy. I am voluntarily leaving this review.)
July 14, 2024
I was grateful to receive an advanced copy of The Shadow Deception by Kate Machon. Right away Kate transports you to another world as Ariadne (Pix) gets a good look at the Hall of Hearing for her sentencing after her latest prank. Pix has a strong personality that shines throughout the book. She is stubborn and can’t understand why no one finds her pranks as funny as she does. After she is paired up with the Angel Gabe as her punishment, she begins to see how important it is to take responsibility for her actions.
There is no shortage of pixie lingo and items to let you forget pix is anything other than a pixie. Would you like to eat some honeyed beetles? Her banter with grumpy Gabe is fun and they have quite a difficult time learning to work together. When Ariadne makes a big mistake that puts not only her home in danger, but also the human world, Gabe stays by her side, and they work through it together.
In all, I really enjoyed this book. I think it a perfect read for kids 8+ and even younger if reading with a parent. It is light-hearted and funny, but has some serious moments, too. This is a great read.
There is no shortage of pixie lingo and items to let you forget pix is anything other than a pixie. Would you like to eat some honeyed beetles? Her banter with grumpy Gabe is fun and they have quite a difficult time learning to work together. When Ariadne makes a big mistake that puts not only her home in danger, but also the human world, Gabe stays by her side, and they work through it together.
In all, I really enjoyed this book. I think it a perfect read for kids 8+ and even younger if reading with a parent. It is light-hearted and funny, but has some serious moments, too. This is a great read.
August 27, 2025
Chaotic pixie, lawful angel
Great opening chapter. The plot kept me interested. Characterization is the star here, in that Pix is one of the most vivid characters I’ve ever read. Pix and her sidekick/foil, Gabriam, are a perfect matchup and contrast between lawful good and chaotic good. Short chapters really keep things moving. The book also has absolutely delightful chapter heading art. As fantasy worlds go, this one definitely has soft world building building, rather than hard. If I have any criticism at all, it’s that the line between soft world building and deus ex machina can get blurry sometimes. But in a story aimed at kids that might not be too big a deal.It also succumbs to the Return of the King temptation of an ending that doesn’t want to end. But that’s very minor, and by the time you get there, you love the characters enough to keep on ‘til the end. Overall, I loved this novel for the vivid characters, for the playful, not to say joyful world, and for the mystery.
Great opening chapter. The plot kept me interested. Characterization is the star here, in that Pix is one of the most vivid characters I’ve ever read. Pix and her sidekick/foil, Gabriam, are a perfect matchup and contrast between lawful good and chaotic good. Short chapters really keep things moving. The book also has absolutely delightful chapter heading art. As fantasy worlds go, this one definitely has soft world building building, rather than hard. If I have any criticism at all, it’s that the line between soft world building and deus ex machina can get blurry sometimes. But in a story aimed at kids that might not be too big a deal.It also succumbs to the Return of the King temptation of an ending that doesn’t want to end. But that’s very minor, and by the time you get there, you love the characters enough to keep on ‘til the end. Overall, I loved this novel for the vivid characters, for the playful, not to say joyful world, and for the mystery.
July 23, 2024
The Shadow Deception is a great debut by Kate Machon. Her writing is full of wit and it was a difficult story to put down!
Whether or not you've read the daily exploits of Pix and Gabe on Twitter/ X, you're in for a real treat. In this tale, Pix and Gabe are introduced and from there they embark on a great adventure.
Along the way, they both grow and learn to trust each other, other magical creatures and some humans as well. Pix is funny as always in her interactions with Gabe and at times I'd laugh out loud. Due to the plot though, we are also shown a more sensitive and contemplative side of Pixie.
Gabe is often blunt and stodgy, but along the way he loosens up a little.
Kate's story has an excellent pace, and cool plot twists. She's very imaginative.
This story is perfect for all ages. If you enjoy magical high jinks in a coming of age tale, you'll love The Shadow Deception.
(I received an advance review copy for free, and I'm leaving this review voluntarily.)
Whether or not you've read the daily exploits of Pix and Gabe on Twitter/ X, you're in for a real treat. In this tale, Pix and Gabe are introduced and from there they embark on a great adventure.
Along the way, they both grow and learn to trust each other, other magical creatures and some humans as well. Pix is funny as always in her interactions with Gabe and at times I'd laugh out loud. Due to the plot though, we are also shown a more sensitive and contemplative side of Pixie.
Gabe is often blunt and stodgy, but along the way he loosens up a little.
Kate's story has an excellent pace, and cool plot twists. She's very imaginative.
This story is perfect for all ages. If you enjoy magical high jinks in a coming of age tale, you'll love The Shadow Deception.
(I received an advance review copy for free, and I'm leaving this review voluntarily.)
September 5, 2024
A joy to read!!!
I whizzed through this book about as fast as Pixie's wings flutter and enjoyed every word of it. Then, at the end, wished there was more. A brilliantly written, delightful, and whimsical story of a pixie who starts off being paired up with an angel to atone for her mischief and ends up saving the day. Pixie's personality and voice kept me smiling, and I loved the banter between her and Gabe, the angel. They are the perfect odd couple who you know are going to end up best friends despite their challenges and differences. If you want a clean, fun, and endearing fantasy, then you must meet Gabe and Pixie. The author says their adventures will continue. So happy to hear that. Will be looking out to read their next chapter.
I whizzed through this book about as fast as Pixie's wings flutter and enjoyed every word of it. Then, at the end, wished there was more. A brilliantly written, delightful, and whimsical story of a pixie who starts off being paired up with an angel to atone for her mischief and ends up saving the day. Pixie's personality and voice kept me smiling, and I loved the banter between her and Gabe, the angel. They are the perfect odd couple who you know are going to end up best friends despite their challenges and differences. If you want a clean, fun, and endearing fantasy, then you must meet Gabe and Pixie. The author says their adventures will continue. So happy to hear that. Will be looking out to read their next chapter.
June 14, 2024
It’s been a long time since I read a middle-grade novel that I couldn’t put down. The plot kept me guessing and the stakes kept building, but it's the characters, Pix and Gabe, that stole the show. So many times, I found myself smiling or chuckling at something Pix says or thinks, but even though Pixie is fun and has a voice that rocks, Gabe is my favorite character. He’s complex and three-dimensional, and I’m head over heels in love with him! I can't wait to see what trouble they encounter on their next adventure! I was fortunate to receive an ARC of this novel.
July 4, 2024
If you like a wonderful cast of engaging characters in a superbly imagined and beautifully described world with fast moving action and flashes of wit, then The Shadow Deception is for you. There is real jeopardy courtesy of the dark character, Shadow, but best of all is the love/hate relationship between playful Pix and grumpy guardian Gabe. It'll keep you reading and rooting for them with loads of fun along the way. The humour makes the story a really enjoyable romp and the world-building and jeopardy makes it a real adventure. The best of both worlds! (I read an Advanced Reader Copy).
July 11, 2024
Pix and Gabe's adventure is exciting and unpredictable. From the beginning I was pulled into their world and shown an adventure that will forever live in my mind. They bicker and argue, but care for and help each other in ways that make you love the characters and root for them to succeed on their mission, a mission that keeps you on the edge of your seat. Author Kate Machon does a wonderful job showing us a world that is beyond our imagination. With her attention to detail and colorful descriptions, you can picture the world of Pix and Gabe.
September 14, 2024
The Shadow Deception by Kate Machon is a middle-grade fantasy about Ariadne, a pixie whose penchant for practical jokes gets her banished when one goes very badly wrong. As she undergoes her punishment among humans, she's guided by a grumpy angel named Gabe, and their magical rollercoaster of a journey shifts from real life to the faery realm and back while Ariadne learns to consider others in a quest to save herself. I enjoyed the imaginative world-building, sympathetic characters, and beautiful writing in this highly recommended book.
October 12, 2025
Full of heart and humor, The Shadow Deception is a highly entertaining MG urban fantasy that will charm young readers and the young at heart. I adored the mischievous pixie “Pix” and her dynamic with the rule-following angel “Gabe,” as they both learned to balance pranks with purpose and believe in themselves when no one else does. Normally, I don’t like spiders, but I will make a huge exception for Rachel. Highly recommend for MG readers or anyone who needs a good chuckle wrapped in a fun adventure.
June 11, 2024
A wonderful MG book. If you like a fun, faced pace, witty and well written book, then this is the one to pick up.
Pix is a great character, you cannot not love her despite everything she's doing to Gabe.
I won't spoil the end, but it's exciting and keep you turning the pages. I just loved how I was drawn into this magical world and didn't want to leave it at the end.
I received and ARC copy
Pix is a great character, you cannot not love her despite everything she's doing to Gabe.
I won't spoil the end, but it's exciting and keep you turning the pages. I just loved how I was drawn into this magical world and didn't want to leave it at the end.
I received and ARC copy
July 5, 2024
Well written book. I am sure younger readers will love the adventures of Pix and Gabe. Pix is just the mischievous character you would expect from a Pixie. Colourful and fun story takes you on twists and turns. Fun rollercoaster.
August 10, 2024
A great adventure story, two very appealing characters in Pix and Gabe, and lots of fun and wit. The tension builds to a very satisfying ending, in which the story's threads are cleverly pulled together, and there's a pleasing promise of more Pix and Gabe adventures to come. A very enjoyable read.
April 8, 2025
The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
EDITORIAL REVEW
16th October 2024
TITLE: The Shadow Deception : A Pix and Gabe Adventure
AUTHOR: Kate Machon
Star Rating: 5
‘A suspense-filled, fantasy adventure packed with wit and charm. Highly recommended to 9 to 12 year olds – and possibly even older!’ The Wishing Shelf
REVIEW
With a playful pixie and a grumpy angel, along with a fast-paced plot and plenty of magic, this is a gem of a book for 9 to 12 year olds. The author, Kate Machon, is a talented writer who seems to understand what her young readership wants - lots happening all of the time, and lots of playful bantering (and chemistry) between the two protagonists.
So, what's it about? Well, in a nutshell, it's the story of Pix who's being banished to the human world. There, an angel by the name of Gabe attempts to keep her from getting into trouble - which, I might add, she’s rather talented at. It’s a fun-filled adventure involving a powerful trinket, lots of imps, and a family mystery.
I must say, there were lots of elements to this middle grade novel I enjoyed. Firstly, the pacing is strong and, to be perfectly honest, there's never a dull moment. Secondly, I liked the way the author worked with speech, using it to not only develop her two MCs, but also her fantasy plot. And, thirdly - and this is possibly what impressed me the most - there's the chemistry between Pix and Gabe. In many ways, this is the jam that holds the story together- and it’s often rather amusing too.
So, if you happen to be a grandparent, parent, or school looking for an exciting, suspense-filled, fantasy adventure for a 9 to 12 year old, you can't go too far wrong with The Shadow Deception. I suspect most young readers will enjoy all the magical twists and turns, and rooting for Pix and Gabe to save the day.
A ‘Wishing Shelf’ Book Review
www.thewsa.co.uk
This book was entered in The Wishing Shelf Book Awards. This is what our readers thought:
Title: The Shadow Deception : A Pix and Gabe Adventure
Author: Kate Machon
Star Rating: 5 Stars
Number of Readers: 15
Stats
Editing: 10/10
Writing Style: 10/10
Content: 10/10
Cover: 5/5
Of the 15 readers:
15 would read another book by this author.
14 thought the cover was good or excellent.
15 felt it was easy to follow.
15 would recommend this book to another reader to try.
Of all the readers, 6 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘plotting a story’.
Of all the readers, 4 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘developing the characters’.
Of all the readers, 5 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘writing style’.
14 felt the pacing was good or excellent.
15 thought the author understood the readership and what they wanted.
Readers’ Comments
“This book is so much fun. I loved the two characters – Pix is sweet but naughty, Gabe is strong and full of mystery.” Boy, aged 12
“Very exciting from the first page. I laughed a lot reading this book – Pix and Gabe sort of get on but they bicker like crazy. It’s very funny.” Boy, aged 10
“I liked how exciting it was, that there was a lot of suspense in the second half, and how the two MCs work together but still quarrel. I think they’ll end up falling in love.” Girl, aged 12
“I think the author should write another Pix and Gabe adventure. I would read it. But do it fast, I’m getting older!” Girl, aged 12
“This book is unpredictable which is the way all good books should be. Loved how it ended! Keep writing, Kate Machon.” Girl, aged 12
To Sum It Up:
‘A fantasy spectacular filled with magical twists and turns. A BRONZE MEDAL WINNER and highly recommended!’ The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
EDITORIAL REVEW
16th October 2024
TITLE: The Shadow Deception : A Pix and Gabe Adventure
AUTHOR: Kate Machon
Star Rating: 5
‘A suspense-filled, fantasy adventure packed with wit and charm. Highly recommended to 9 to 12 year olds – and possibly even older!’ The Wishing Shelf
REVIEW
With a playful pixie and a grumpy angel, along with a fast-paced plot and plenty of magic, this is a gem of a book for 9 to 12 year olds. The author, Kate Machon, is a talented writer who seems to understand what her young readership wants - lots happening all of the time, and lots of playful bantering (and chemistry) between the two protagonists.
So, what's it about? Well, in a nutshell, it's the story of Pix who's being banished to the human world. There, an angel by the name of Gabe attempts to keep her from getting into trouble - which, I might add, she’s rather talented at. It’s a fun-filled adventure involving a powerful trinket, lots of imps, and a family mystery.
I must say, there were lots of elements to this middle grade novel I enjoyed. Firstly, the pacing is strong and, to be perfectly honest, there's never a dull moment. Secondly, I liked the way the author worked with speech, using it to not only develop her two MCs, but also her fantasy plot. And, thirdly - and this is possibly what impressed me the most - there's the chemistry between Pix and Gabe. In many ways, this is the jam that holds the story together- and it’s often rather amusing too.
So, if you happen to be a grandparent, parent, or school looking for an exciting, suspense-filled, fantasy adventure for a 9 to 12 year old, you can't go too far wrong with The Shadow Deception. I suspect most young readers will enjoy all the magical twists and turns, and rooting for Pix and Gabe to save the day.
A ‘Wishing Shelf’ Book Review
www.thewsa.co.uk
This book was entered in The Wishing Shelf Book Awards. This is what our readers thought:
Title: The Shadow Deception : A Pix and Gabe Adventure
Author: Kate Machon
Star Rating: 5 Stars
Number of Readers: 15
Stats
Editing: 10/10
Writing Style: 10/10
Content: 10/10
Cover: 5/5
Of the 15 readers:
15 would read another book by this author.
14 thought the cover was good or excellent.
15 felt it was easy to follow.
15 would recommend this book to another reader to try.
Of all the readers, 6 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘plotting a story’.
Of all the readers, 4 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘developing the characters’.
Of all the readers, 5 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘writing style’.
14 felt the pacing was good or excellent.
15 thought the author understood the readership and what they wanted.
Readers’ Comments
“This book is so much fun. I loved the two characters – Pix is sweet but naughty, Gabe is strong and full of mystery.” Boy, aged 12
“Very exciting from the first page. I laughed a lot reading this book – Pix and Gabe sort of get on but they bicker like crazy. It’s very funny.” Boy, aged 10
“I liked how exciting it was, that there was a lot of suspense in the second half, and how the two MCs work together but still quarrel. I think they’ll end up falling in love.” Girl, aged 12
“I think the author should write another Pix and Gabe adventure. I would read it. But do it fast, I’m getting older!” Girl, aged 12
“This book is unpredictable which is the way all good books should be. Loved how it ended! Keep writing, Kate Machon.” Girl, aged 12
To Sum It Up:
‘A fantasy spectacular filled with magical twists and turns. A BRONZE MEDAL WINNER and highly recommended!’ The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews