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Pierre and the Last Gargoyle of Paris
Pierre & the Last Gargoyle of Paris
A boy lost in life. A creature set in stone. The adventure of a lifetime.
Eleven-year-old Pierre Allard lives a quiet life in Paris with his beloved grandparents, Henri and Marielle.
Shy, uncertain and carrying questions he has never dared ask, Pierre has spent his whole life wondering why his parents abandoned him.
Then everything changes.
When a devastating fire tears through Notre-Dame Cathedral, Pierre discovers something impossible hiding in the shadows of Paris.
Wounded, frightened and believed long extinct, the mysterious creature should not exist.
But someone else is searching for it too.
As ancient secrets begin to surface and powerful enemies close in, Pierre finds himself caught in a race across the streets, rooftops and hidden places of Paris. Along the way he will discover courage he never knew he possessed, uncover the truth about his family, and learn that friendship can appear in the most unexpected forms.
Set against the dramatic backdrop of the real Notre-Dame fire, Pierre & the Last Gargoyle of Paris is a heartwarming adventure filled with mystery, humour, danger and unforgettable characters.
Perfect for readers who love magical creatures, thrilling adventures and stories about family, friendship and finding where you belong.
Join Pierre on an extraordinary journey through the City of Light and discover why some legends never truly disappear.
A boy lost in life. A creature set in stone. The adventure of a lifetime.
Eleven-year-old Pierre Allard lives a quiet life in Paris with his beloved grandparents, Henri and Marielle.
Shy, uncertain and carrying questions he has never dared ask, Pierre has spent his whole life wondering why his parents abandoned him.
Then everything changes.
When a devastating fire tears through Notre-Dame Cathedral, Pierre discovers something impossible hiding in the shadows of Paris.
Wounded, frightened and believed long extinct, the mysterious creature should not exist.
But someone else is searching for it too.
As ancient secrets begin to surface and powerful enemies close in, Pierre finds himself caught in a race across the streets, rooftops and hidden places of Paris. Along the way he will discover courage he never knew he possessed, uncover the truth about his family, and learn that friendship can appear in the most unexpected forms.
Set against the dramatic backdrop of the real Notre-Dame fire, Pierre & the Last Gargoyle of Paris is a heartwarming adventure filled with mystery, humour, danger and unforgettable characters.
Perfect for readers who love magical creatures, thrilling adventures and stories about family, friendship and finding where you belong.
Join Pierre on an extraordinary journey through the City of Light and discover why some legends never truly disappear.
337 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 3, 2026
About the author
Ian Fišermanis
3 books3 followersIan was born in England and heralds from the midlands, in the U.K., finally settling in the town of Rugby, Warwickshire with his French bulldog "Steed".
"I have always been communicating something with my fingertips.
Ever since I could pick up a pencil, I was drawing and writing stories. I was a child of seemingly limitless imagination and creativity, always telling tales and sketching pictures of monsters and heroes alike. Growing up in an era of great stories, the 1970's and 80's still had classics like "The Wizard of Oz" & "Mary Poppins" but added the summer blockbuster adventures like "Star Wars" & "E.T.".
I soaked it all up with relish.
When a diet of adventure combines with a love of words, a talent to describe, and a passion for art, it creates a great story. With this book I wanted to tell the story of every family, but to express it with fantasy and adventure, joy and sadness, with hope and dismay.
My only wish for my readers is that they enjoy it as much as I did writing it, and if you are inspired, to pick up a pencil yourself, you never know where it might take you."
Ian has also written and performed spoken word art and poetry for over 20 years, as his alter ego "BusyMrFizzy", as well as teaching at the Stanwick School of Literature amongst other locations. Previously, he was employed in the U.K. film and T.V. industry designing and creating sets and props for films such as Star Wars, Wicked, Jurassic World and Lord of the Rings.
He describes Pierre and the last gargoyle of Paris as "a love letter to the worlds most beautiful city. It's a semi autobiographical tale, wrapped in the childhood wonder of the stories I heard when I was younger. It's ultimately about family, about truth and honesty, and the strength in all of us to protect the ones we love".
"I have always been communicating something with my fingertips.
Ever since I could pick up a pencil, I was drawing and writing stories. I was a child of seemingly limitless imagination and creativity, always telling tales and sketching pictures of monsters and heroes alike. Growing up in an era of great stories, the 1970's and 80's still had classics like "The Wizard of Oz" & "Mary Poppins" but added the summer blockbuster adventures like "Star Wars" & "E.T.".
I soaked it all up with relish.
When a diet of adventure combines with a love of words, a talent to describe, and a passion for art, it creates a great story. With this book I wanted to tell the story of every family, but to express it with fantasy and adventure, joy and sadness, with hope and dismay.
My only wish for my readers is that they enjoy it as much as I did writing it, and if you are inspired, to pick up a pencil yourself, you never know where it might take you."
Ian has also written and performed spoken word art and poetry for over 20 years, as his alter ego "BusyMrFizzy", as well as teaching at the Stanwick School of Literature amongst other locations. Previously, he was employed in the U.K. film and T.V. industry designing and creating sets and props for films such as Star Wars, Wicked, Jurassic World and Lord of the Rings.
He describes Pierre and the last gargoyle of Paris as "a love letter to the worlds most beautiful city. It's a semi autobiographical tale, wrapped in the childhood wonder of the stories I heard when I was younger. It's ultimately about family, about truth and honesty, and the strength in all of us to protect the ones we love".
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
October 2, 2026
I have one word to describe this book and that is WOW. I don't read fantasy books very often, but I absolutely devolved this book and couldn't put it down.
This was an incredible read and I was completely invested with the adventure the storyline took me on while reading. The descriptions of Paris throughout were so detailed, I could picture myself there. I really liked how it was told from multiple points of view which included a gargoyle and a dog.
Overall, this was a heartfelt read full of adventure, history, grief and emotion. It's definitely a book I won't forget and a highly recommended read.
This was an incredible read and I was completely invested with the adventure the storyline took me on while reading. The descriptions of Paris throughout were so detailed, I could picture myself there. I really liked how it was told from multiple points of view which included a gargoyle and a dog.
Overall, this was a heartfelt read full of adventure, history, grief and emotion. It's definitely a book I won't forget and a highly recommended read.
Read
September 23, 2026This was an amazing YA fantasy, full of adventure, humour, heart and just the right amount of magic.
The author's love for Paris can be felt on every page, and this book is such a lovely homage to the city. From the descriptions of Paris to the little French lines and phrases woven throghtout the story, I loved how the city became a part of the narrative. By the time I finished the book,I felt like I had fallen in love love with Paris a little too.
This book had a very unique structure. It is told through multiple POVs, beginning with Pierre, the 11 yr old protagonist, but we also have POVs of Notre Dam, where she converses with ghosts from the past, we even have police report, pov of a dog, the gargoyle and so many others.
The story follows Pierre, a shy and introverted boy who lives with his grandparents. After a fire at Notre-Dame, he comes across a creature that he didn't know existed, a marghul. But there are dangerous people looking for the marghul too, and Pierre soon finds himself caught up in an adventure where he must protect him.
It was so much fun watching Pierre get into all sorts of shenanigans while hiding marghul initially. I loved seeing the quiet, introverted child solely coming out of his shell.
Beneath all the adventure and humour, this book has so much heart. There were moments that moved me to tears. The story is about found family, coming of age, history and memory, grief, guilt, secrets, and the ways in which the past continues to shape us.
And as someone who has recently developed a habit of mentally creating a TBR for my little one, books I want him to discover when he grows up, this is definitely going on that list. I would absolutely love to read this one with him someday.
This is a heartfelt adventure that I think both young readers and adults can find something to love in.
The author's love for Paris can be felt on every page, and this book is such a lovely homage to the city. From the descriptions of Paris to the little French lines and phrases woven throghtout the story, I loved how the city became a part of the narrative. By the time I finished the book,I felt like I had fallen in love love with Paris a little too.
This book had a very unique structure. It is told through multiple POVs, beginning with Pierre, the 11 yr old protagonist, but we also have POVs of Notre Dam, where she converses with ghosts from the past, we even have police report, pov of a dog, the gargoyle and so many others.
The story follows Pierre, a shy and introverted boy who lives with his grandparents. After a fire at Notre-Dame, he comes across a creature that he didn't know existed, a marghul. But there are dangerous people looking for the marghul too, and Pierre soon finds himself caught up in an adventure where he must protect him.
It was so much fun watching Pierre get into all sorts of shenanigans while hiding marghul initially. I loved seeing the quiet, introverted child solely coming out of his shell.
Beneath all the adventure and humour, this book has so much heart. There were moments that moved me to tears. The story is about found family, coming of age, history and memory, grief, guilt, secrets, and the ways in which the past continues to shape us.
And as someone who has recently developed a habit of mentally creating a TBR for my little one, books I want him to discover when he grows up, this is definitely going on that list. I would absolutely love to read this one with him someday.
This is a heartfelt adventure that I think both young readers and adults can find something to love in.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I read Pierre and the Last Gargoyle of Paris in two days. I could not put it down! From the first page I was completely invested.
This book is beautifully written, it provides the reader with interesting and lovable characters, wonderful imagery and provokes emotion of every kind from the outset; I had laughed cried and pondered my own existence by the end of chapter three!
A wonderful and powerful story from start to finish which I highly recommend you read - you will not be disappointed.
This book is beautifully written, it provides the reader with interesting and lovable characters, wonderful imagery and provokes emotion of every kind from the outset; I had laughed cried and pondered my own existence by the end of chapter three!
A wonderful and powerful story from start to finish which I highly recommend you read - you will not be disappointed.
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August 24, 2026I had the pleasure of reading this book before official release…
What a wonderful adventure! This book is a tale of friendship, grief, belonging, and of being true to ourselves. From a style of writing that at times reminds me of movie scenes from the 90s, and at others encourages self awareness and deep reflection, this book manages to provide so many things - an opportunity to feel a bond with the characters, a sense of being in Paris itself, a bit of French history, some humour yet also some cinematic intensity, plus to learn French language skills if wished by the reader. Lots of layers wrapped up in a fabulous story that I personally was engrossed in. I loved the sensory descriptions, the ideas around communication, and overall a sense of routing for the main characters. I'll be reading it again!
What a wonderful adventure! This book is a tale of friendship, grief, belonging, and of being true to ourselves. From a style of writing that at times reminds me of movie scenes from the 90s, and at others encourages self awareness and deep reflection, this book manages to provide so many things - an opportunity to feel a bond with the characters, a sense of being in Paris itself, a bit of French history, some humour yet also some cinematic intensity, plus to learn French language skills if wished by the reader. Lots of layers wrapped up in a fabulous story that I personally was engrossed in. I loved the sensory descriptions, the ideas around communication, and overall a sense of routing for the main characters. I'll be reading it again!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was an absolute delight to read. The world-building is outstanding, rich, imaginative, and incredibly immersive. Every place and character feels carefully crafted, making it easy to lose yourself in this fascinating universe. I also loved the subtle references to French culture and History throughout the story. They added a unique charm and authenticity without ever feeling forced. As the story unfolded, its evocative descriptions of Paris became my « madeleine de Proust » (meaning a warm and conforting feeling of nostalgia) transporting me back to the wonderful city where I was born and raised.
The author’s creativity shines on every page, with fresh ideas and thoughtful details that make the story feel both original and believable. The writing itself is elegant, fluid, and easy to read. Also, the plot is gripping from the beginning to the end, with just the right balance of mystery, action, and emotional depth. I found myself eager to turn each page, always wanting to know what would happen next.
Congratulations to the author for creating such a memorable and captivating world for both children and adults. I can't wait to read more!
The author’s creativity shines on every page, with fresh ideas and thoughtful details that make the story feel both original and believable. The writing itself is elegant, fluid, and easy to read. Also, the plot is gripping from the beginning to the end, with just the right balance of mystery, action, and emotional depth. I found myself eager to turn each page, always wanting to know what would happen next.
Congratulations to the author for creating such a memorable and captivating world for both children and adults. I can't wait to read more!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I took Pierre and the Last Gargoyle in Paris away with me on holiday knowing absolutely nothing about it and having no idea what to expect. What I discovered was a really enjoyable read which I highly recommend.
This story is a warmly written and engaging saga where the primary catalyst is the devastating Notre Dame fire. It weaves history, fantasy, myth and mystery in a magical storyline that has wide spread appeal. It is imaginative and clever, and will make a brilliant present for anyone interested in French, Paris and mythology.
All in all a lovely read, so pick up a copy now!
This story is a warmly written and engaging saga where the primary catalyst is the devastating Notre Dame fire. It weaves history, fantasy, myth and mystery in a magical storyline that has wide spread appeal. It is imaginative and clever, and will make a brilliant present for anyone interested in French, Paris and mythology.
All in all a lovely read, so pick up a copy now!
October 6, 2026
At its core, Pierre and the Last Gargoyle of Paris is a story about friendship, history, and finding your place in the world.
Pierre starts out as a curious boy living an ordinary life, but as he bonds with Marghul, he grows into a brave protector of his city’s hidden secrets. Meanwhile, Marghul is a living stone gargoyle who feels lonely because he has outlived his own era. Standing high above Paris, he carries the heavy duty of watching over a city that is constantly changing around him. Together, the two friends bring out the best in each other: Pierre gives Marghul a newfound purpose, and Marghul teaches Pierre to appreciate the deep history and language all around them.
Through their journey, the story shows us that history isn't just kept in old books or museum displays—it lives on through the stories we share, the connections we build, and the special places we care for.
Pierre starts out as a curious boy living an ordinary life, but as he bonds with Marghul, he grows into a brave protector of his city’s hidden secrets. Meanwhile, Marghul is a living stone gargoyle who feels lonely because he has outlived his own era. Standing high above Paris, he carries the heavy duty of watching over a city that is constantly changing around him. Together, the two friends bring out the best in each other: Pierre gives Marghul a newfound purpose, and Marghul teaches Pierre to appreciate the deep history and language all around them.
Through their journey, the story shows us that history isn't just kept in old books or museum displays—it lives on through the stories we share, the connections we build, and the special places we care for.
September 6, 2026
There’s something rather lovely about a book that sets out to create its own little world, and Pierre and the Last Gargoyle of Paris certainly does that. Ian Fisermanis’ debut takes us into the streets of Paris following the fire at Notre-Dame, where a gargoyle escapes into the city and encounters Pierre, a lonely young boy living with his grandparents.
There’s plenty going on here: mystery, mythical creatures, family secrets, tragedy and a cast of characters with their own connections to the gargoyles. I particularly enjoyed the quirky illustrations and the sprinkling of French throughout the story, which gives it a distinct sense of place. The short sections also make it a very accessible read.
As a debut novel, it’s clear that Ian has put a huge amount of imagination into creating the story and its characters, and there are some really interesting ideas here. I especially liked the way the book brings together the mythology of gargoyles with the history and atmosphere of Paris.
There’s plenty going on here: mystery, mythical creatures, family secrets, tragedy and a cast of characters with their own connections to the gargoyles. I particularly enjoyed the quirky illustrations and the sprinkling of French throughout the story, which gives it a distinct sense of place. The short sections also make it a very accessible read.
As a debut novel, it’s clear that Ian has put a huge amount of imagination into creating the story and its characters, and there are some really interesting ideas here. I especially liked the way the book brings together the mythology of gargoyles with the history and atmosphere of Paris.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I read Pierre and the Last Gargoyle of Paris by Ian Fišermanis over two days - and honestly it would have been a day if I hadn’t been so tired; because once I was swept away to 2019 Paris? I was fully invested in Pierre’s life, the carnage of the Notre Dame fire and the displaced gargoyle.
I loved how the author brings the city to life. The rich, immersive writing makes you feel as though you are there, carefully blending fantasy with both the beauty of Paris and its various arrondissements; where we meet Pierre and his grandparents. The additional element of French mixed in with English along with the dual language chapter titles help to firmly remind you that you’re in the heart of the city as fire envelops the Lady of Paris. Everything about this book feels like a love letter to a city that has seen so much and meant more to people around the world. It’s shown in the care the author has taken from his storytelling to the adorable illustrations by illustrator Christina Wells that appear on nearly every page.
For me, the story strikes a perfect balance. As a reader, you’re never weighed down—whether by the adventure of Pierre and his newfound gargoyle friend and the many twists they must survive, or by the more emotional themes of growing older, loss, and grief. Those moments still affect the characters, of course, and the reader too, but never make the book feel too difficult to continue. There were times when I had to pause briefly to acknowledge how deeply relatable it felt before returning to the story with a smile.
I think this is one of the best YA fantasy books I have read in a long time because its story reminded me of why adventures are so important; and are so long lasting in literature. It’s a story filled with wonder, magic and family - of believing in more that you can see too. There’s so many moments where you experience a plethora of emotions; and no matter your age; I think if you still love a little ‘what if’ when you look around? You’ll love this book and I’m very hopeful for more from Pierre and the Marghul.
I loved how the author brings the city to life. The rich, immersive writing makes you feel as though you are there, carefully blending fantasy with both the beauty of Paris and its various arrondissements; where we meet Pierre and his grandparents. The additional element of French mixed in with English along with the dual language chapter titles help to firmly remind you that you’re in the heart of the city as fire envelops the Lady of Paris. Everything about this book feels like a love letter to a city that has seen so much and meant more to people around the world. It’s shown in the care the author has taken from his storytelling to the adorable illustrations by illustrator Christina Wells that appear on nearly every page.
For me, the story strikes a perfect balance. As a reader, you’re never weighed down—whether by the adventure of Pierre and his newfound gargoyle friend and the many twists they must survive, or by the more emotional themes of growing older, loss, and grief. Those moments still affect the characters, of course, and the reader too, but never make the book feel too difficult to continue. There were times when I had to pause briefly to acknowledge how deeply relatable it felt before returning to the story with a smile.
I think this is one of the best YA fantasy books I have read in a long time because its story reminded me of why adventures are so important; and are so long lasting in literature. It’s a story filled with wonder, magic and family - of believing in more that you can see too. There’s so many moments where you experience a plethora of emotions; and no matter your age; I think if you still love a little ‘what if’ when you look around? You’ll love this book and I’m very hopeful for more from Pierre and the Marghul.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A magical adventure filled with heart, history and unforgettable characters.
Pierre and the Last Gargoyle of Paris is one of those rare middle-grade novels that manages to feel both exciting and comforting at the same time. Set against the backdrop of Paris and inspired by the fire at Notre-Dame, it blends real history with fantasy in a way that feels completely believable.
Pierre is a wonderfully relatable hero. Quiet, thoughtful and unsure of himself, he's the kind of character you find yourself rooting for from the very first chapter. His relationship with his grandparents is beautifully written, bringing warmth and humour to the story, while the mysterious gargoyle steals every scene it appears in.
The descriptions of Paris are vivid and atmospheric, making the city feel like a character in its own right. Whether wandering through hidden streets, exploring the cathedral or uncovering long-forgotten secrets, every chapter captures the magic and mystery of the setting.
What really sets this book apart is its balance. It's adventurous without ever becoming frightening, emotional without becoming sentimental, and genuinely funny in places. There are moments of suspense, touching family relationships, plenty of humour, and a real sense of wonder that reminded me why I fell in love with children's adventure stories in the first place.
The illustrations throughout the book are a wonderful addition, helping to bring the world and its characters to life without interrupting the flow of the story.
Although written for younger readers, this is very much a book that adults can enjoy as well. If you love stories such as The Invention of Hugo Cabret, Nevermoor, or classic adventure tales with memorable characters and a rich sense of place, this is well worth picking up.
A charming, imaginative and heartfelt adventure that leaves you hoping Pierre's journey isn't over.
Highly recommended.
Pierre and the Last Gargoyle of Paris is one of those rare middle-grade novels that manages to feel both exciting and comforting at the same time. Set against the backdrop of Paris and inspired by the fire at Notre-Dame, it blends real history with fantasy in a way that feels completely believable.
Pierre is a wonderfully relatable hero. Quiet, thoughtful and unsure of himself, he's the kind of character you find yourself rooting for from the very first chapter. His relationship with his grandparents is beautifully written, bringing warmth and humour to the story, while the mysterious gargoyle steals every scene it appears in.
The descriptions of Paris are vivid and atmospheric, making the city feel like a character in its own right. Whether wandering through hidden streets, exploring the cathedral or uncovering long-forgotten secrets, every chapter captures the magic and mystery of the setting.
What really sets this book apart is its balance. It's adventurous without ever becoming frightening, emotional without becoming sentimental, and genuinely funny in places. There are moments of suspense, touching family relationships, plenty of humour, and a real sense of wonder that reminded me why I fell in love with children's adventure stories in the first place.
The illustrations throughout the book are a wonderful addition, helping to bring the world and its characters to life without interrupting the flow of the story.
Although written for younger readers, this is very much a book that adults can enjoy as well. If you love stories such as The Invention of Hugo Cabret, Nevermoor, or classic adventure tales with memorable characters and a rich sense of place, this is well worth picking up.
A charming, imaginative and heartfelt adventure that leaves you hoping Pierre's journey isn't over.
Highly recommended.
September 3, 2026
This was such a different YA fantasy and honestly, I really enjoyed it. It felt like a fantasy story, a history lesson and a French lesson all rolled into one.
The detail in the story really stood out to me. I felt like I was actually visiting Paris while I was reading it, with so much history woven into the story. It really does feel like the history is oozing from the pages.
And then there’s the gargoyle! As soon as he appeared, he completely stole the show. 😂 Some of the interactions in the story between the characters made me actually snigger, which I wasn’t expecting.
I really liked Pierre too. He isn’t overconfident or larger than life, but he grows into the storyline really well. My favourite part of the whole book was the friendship between Pierre and the gargoyle. It becomes such a strong friendship that it felt completely believable, and I really enjoyed watching it develop.
I also loved the relationship between Pierre and his grandparents. It’s a really loving relationship, but they’re also firm with him when they need to be. The story behind the deaths in the family was heartbreaking and gave the story another emotional layer.
At its heart, this is a story about love, trust, heartbreak and secrets. It’s about friendship and love, and an adventure to protect all of that. There are plenty of twists and turns along the way which kept me engaged right through to the end.
I was really pleased with the way the book ended too, which is always important for me.
My only regret is that I didn’t listen to the audiobook, because there’s quite a bit of French and I had absolutely no idea if I was pronouncing any of it right! 😂 I definitely would have appreciated someone else doing that bit for me.
Overall, this was a really enjoyable and unusual fantasy story, with plenty of heart, history, adventure, friendship and a gargoyle who definitely knows how to steal the show.
The detail in the story really stood out to me. I felt like I was actually visiting Paris while I was reading it, with so much history woven into the story. It really does feel like the history is oozing from the pages.
And then there’s the gargoyle! As soon as he appeared, he completely stole the show. 😂 Some of the interactions in the story between the characters made me actually snigger, which I wasn’t expecting.
I really liked Pierre too. He isn’t overconfident or larger than life, but he grows into the storyline really well. My favourite part of the whole book was the friendship between Pierre and the gargoyle. It becomes such a strong friendship that it felt completely believable, and I really enjoyed watching it develop.
I also loved the relationship between Pierre and his grandparents. It’s a really loving relationship, but they’re also firm with him when they need to be. The story behind the deaths in the family was heartbreaking and gave the story another emotional layer.
At its heart, this is a story about love, trust, heartbreak and secrets. It’s about friendship and love, and an adventure to protect all of that. There are plenty of twists and turns along the way which kept me engaged right through to the end.
I was really pleased with the way the book ended too, which is always important for me.
My only regret is that I didn’t listen to the audiobook, because there’s quite a bit of French and I had absolutely no idea if I was pronouncing any of it right! 😂 I definitely would have appreciated someone else doing that bit for me.
Overall, this was a really enjoyable and unusual fantasy story, with plenty of heart, history, adventure, friendship and a gargoyle who definitely knows how to steal the show.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was lucky enough to beta-read this book and I am so pleased that I did! I am not a huge reader, and rarely re-read books, but this had me starting it again as soon as I had finished it.
From the moment you start, you are drawn into an adventure like no other. Each chapter is teased with imaginative (and often hilarious) chapter names, and the back-drop of Paris is vividly written and described so as you almost feel you are living the book. The characters, particularly Pierre, Henri and his wife Marielle, are wonderfully written with humour and heart, and are sure to become favourites of the reader.
As the story develops I found myself unable to stop turning the pages, as this novel is perfectly pitched to entice you further into the mystery that surrounds Pierre and I found myself wanting the same answers that he seeks. By the time I was half way through I was in love with the Allards and the creature they have become involved with, “Marghul”. The Gargoyle is fabulously written and will absolutely appeal to younger readers as much as it will adults. It brings a true sense of depth to the novel with its own views on the lives we lead.
A steady, page turner for children and adults alike, that accelerates with purpose to satisfying climax with care, humour, adventure and fantasy all wrapped up in story about family, belonging and truth. It reminded me of the stories I read as a kid like “The Railway Children” and more modern stories like “A Monster Calls" and certainly has the potential to be a future classic itself.
Highly recommended
From the moment you start, you are drawn into an adventure like no other. Each chapter is teased with imaginative (and often hilarious) chapter names, and the back-drop of Paris is vividly written and described so as you almost feel you are living the book. The characters, particularly Pierre, Henri and his wife Marielle, are wonderfully written with humour and heart, and are sure to become favourites of the reader.
As the story develops I found myself unable to stop turning the pages, as this novel is perfectly pitched to entice you further into the mystery that surrounds Pierre and I found myself wanting the same answers that he seeks. By the time I was half way through I was in love with the Allards and the creature they have become involved with, “Marghul”. The Gargoyle is fabulously written and will absolutely appeal to younger readers as much as it will adults. It brings a true sense of depth to the novel with its own views on the lives we lead.
A steady, page turner for children and adults alike, that accelerates with purpose to satisfying climax with care, humour, adventure and fantasy all wrapped up in story about family, belonging and truth. It reminded me of the stories I read as a kid like “The Railway Children” and more modern stories like “A Monster Calls" and certainly has the potential to be a future classic itself.
Highly recommended
September 27, 2026
I’ve been waiting (rather impatiently) for this book to be released for some time now, and it did not disappoint. Admittedly it took me a long time to read, not because it was a bad read, far from it, but because I wanted to savour each chapter.
The plot follows a turbulent period in young Pierre’s life and is a great example of the power of communities coming together. The chapters transition beautifully between the points of view of each character, the use of illustration signalling the change in a tasteful way and not interrupting the flow for the reader. You can really see the writers passion for Paris come through in the way they talk about the history and culture of the city. The extra details really add depth to the storyline, as well as making you want to book on the next Eurostar.
All in all, a 10/10 from me!
When’s the next one coming out?
The plot follows a turbulent period in young Pierre’s life and is a great example of the power of communities coming together. The chapters transition beautifully between the points of view of each character, the use of illustration signalling the change in a tasteful way and not interrupting the flow for the reader. You can really see the writers passion for Paris come through in the way they talk about the history and culture of the city. The extra details really add depth to the storyline, as well as making you want to book on the next Eurostar.
All in all, a 10/10 from me!
When’s the next one coming out?
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews