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Gargoyle and Sorceress #1
Sorceress Awakening
As a child, a near-drowning accident stole Lillian’s old life. Her new life began the moment she awoke at the foot of a brooding, stone gargoyle.
Years later, Lillian still finds comfort in Gregory, her gargoyle, never guessing he is more than cold stone until demonic creatures called the Riven attack. Gregory senses her terror and wakes from his healing sleep.
After the battle, Lillian learns the humans she thought were her family are a powerful coven of witches at war with the Riven. Lillian is something more than human, a powerful worker of magic, an Avatar to the gods. Gregory has been her protector for many lifetimes, but troubles in their homeland forced him to flee with her to the human world. And it wasn’t an accident which stole her memories—it was Gregory. He suspects Lillian is host to an infant demon, one capable of evil greater than the Riven.
Despite everything, Lillian fears she’s falling in love with her guardian. While she might be able to defeat the Riven with Gregory’s help, she doesn’t know if her fragile new love can survive the evil growing in her own soul...
Author's Note: Sorceress Awakening was previously published as Stone’s Kiss and was part of the Urban Fantasy series called The Avatars.
Years later, Lillian still finds comfort in Gregory, her gargoyle, never guessing he is more than cold stone until demonic creatures called the Riven attack. Gregory senses her terror and wakes from his healing sleep.
After the battle, Lillian learns the humans she thought were her family are a powerful coven of witches at war with the Riven. Lillian is something more than human, a powerful worker of magic, an Avatar to the gods. Gregory has been her protector for many lifetimes, but troubles in their homeland forced him to flee with her to the human world. And it wasn’t an accident which stole her memories—it was Gregory. He suspects Lillian is host to an infant demon, one capable of evil greater than the Riven.
Despite everything, Lillian fears she’s falling in love with her guardian. While she might be able to defeat the Riven with Gregory’s help, she doesn’t know if her fragile new love can survive the evil growing in her own soul...
Author's Note: Sorceress Awakening was previously published as Stone’s Kiss and was part of the Urban Fantasy series called The Avatars.
257 pages, ebook
First published November 25, 2011
701 people are currently reading
1571 people want to read
About the author
Lisa Blackwood
48 books312 followersLisa Blackwood is the USA Today bestselling author of the Gargoyle and Sorceress Urban Fantasy series. She and her new co-author, S.M. Schmitz, are also embarking upon a new Space Opera Romance series. Book one is titled, Vengeance: Warships of the Spire. It can be found in the Dominion Rising boxset anthology.
As well as writing, Lisa is also an avid gardener, horse enthusiast, and dog lover. She grudgingly lives in a small town in Southern Ontario, though she would much rather live deep in a dark forest, surrounded by majestic old-growth trees. Since she cannot live her fantasy, she decided to write fantasy instead. Freya, her ever faithful and beloved hellhound, ensures Lisa takes breaks from the computer so they can rid the garden of cats with delusions of conquest.
As well as writing, Lisa is also an avid gardener, horse enthusiast, and dog lover. She grudgingly lives in a small town in Southern Ontario, though she would much rather live deep in a dark forest, surrounded by majestic old-growth trees. Since she cannot live her fantasy, she decided to write fantasy instead. Freya, her ever faithful and beloved hellhound, ensures Lisa takes breaks from the computer so they can rid the garden of cats with delusions of conquest.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 143 reviews
January 9, 2018
This book in one gif:
You are quite welcome.
You are quite welcome.
February 28, 2019
Sorceress Awakening has a interesting storyline but I just couldnt get into it. Something was missing. The beginning had me intrigued and then the book kinda plateaued. I'm not saying dont read it. Actually, I encourage everyone to pick up the book. This just wasnt my cup of tea.
May 24, 2018
Three and a half
I really wanted to read some urban fantasy to take me away from reality and remembered I had this on my kindle. Plus it’s about a gargoyle so I was really keen to see exactly what this story was about. Lilian has no memories about her early childhood and has been brought up by her grandmother. She’s always felt that one tree on their land was special and spent many an hour curled up on the statue that sat near it. A peaceful, happy existence until one day monsters show up ! Lilian never really believed in vampires, werewolves or creepy fae types but here they are large as life and twice as nasty. Lilian tries to run but she’s hurt badly and only just makes it to her favourite place in the wood and yet when she does a strange urge to call for help pushes through her subconscious. If seeing a vampire was a shock what will Lilian think when an eight foot gargoyle springs to life ?
I’m honestly struggling to review this book. It’s not bad or particularly predictable but for some reason didn’t wow me. There’s lots going on, numerous supporting characters and the central couple have antecedents that are frankly very unusual. So why am I on the fence ? Ok the essential love story is beautiful and yet cruel at the same time. The evil ( I cannot say more as it gives too much away) is surprising and yet at the same time frustrating to read about. It’s essentially a trope with a young woman coming to terms with a world she didn’t know existed whilst learning to understand her powers and then just to up the ante there’s Gregory and the all consuming love they share. I just think perhaps too much was thrown in which meant some depth and emotional connections somehow got overlooked.
I really wanted to read some urban fantasy to take me away from reality and remembered I had this on my kindle. Plus it’s about a gargoyle so I was really keen to see exactly what this story was about. Lilian has no memories about her early childhood and has been brought up by her grandmother. She’s always felt that one tree on their land was special and spent many an hour curled up on the statue that sat near it. A peaceful, happy existence until one day monsters show up ! Lilian never really believed in vampires, werewolves or creepy fae types but here they are large as life and twice as nasty. Lilian tries to run but she’s hurt badly and only just makes it to her favourite place in the wood and yet when she does a strange urge to call for help pushes through her subconscious. If seeing a vampire was a shock what will Lilian think when an eight foot gargoyle springs to life ?
I’m honestly struggling to review this book. It’s not bad or particularly predictable but for some reason didn’t wow me. There’s lots going on, numerous supporting characters and the central couple have antecedents that are frankly very unusual. So why am I on the fence ? Ok the essential love story is beautiful and yet cruel at the same time. The evil ( I cannot say more as it gives too much away) is surprising and yet at the same time frustrating to read about. It’s essentially a trope with a young woman coming to terms with a world she didn’t know existed whilst learning to understand her powers and then just to up the ante there’s Gregory and the all consuming love they share. I just think perhaps too much was thrown in which meant some depth and emotional connections somehow got overlooked.
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April 11, 2017
I really enjoyed this book. It was different to what I was expecting. Lillian lives with her grandmother and in her garden one day she is attacked by a group of people with magical powers. A voice tells her to run into the maze to the gargoyle statue there and that changes everything! She is seriously injured, but her gargoyle wakes up and saves her. She soon finds out that she is not human, but a dryad instead and the gargoyle is her protector. Her grandmother is not fully human either and soon a whole new world opens up for Lilian, one she suddenly finds herself lost in, yet still has many secrets she has to deal with.
The Riven are a group of vampires who need Lilian to complete a powerful spell, but if they do the whole world will change and Lilian may find herself in a worse situation than she is right now. She has to battle against them, giving herself up to the magic, even though it may cost her soul at the least, or her life at the most. She finds out that she is an Avatar to the gods and the Lady of Battles wants her! She must do everything that she can to prevent herself from falling into the Lady's hands.
I thoroughly enjoyed this first book in the series and am looking forward to reading the rest of it. Lilian was a likeable character, although she did run ff a lot and get herself into tricky situations. She likes to think for herself and doesn't like to follow the advice/instructions of others if she think she can help. The gargoyle, Gregory, was frustrating to me. He constantly held back secrets to reveal them later, yet Lilian was fine with his secret keeping. I would have been much more annoyed at him for that than she was!
The Riven are a group of vampires who need Lilian to complete a powerful spell, but if they do the whole world will change and Lilian may find herself in a worse situation than she is right now. She has to battle against them, giving herself up to the magic, even though it may cost her soul at the least, or her life at the most. She finds out that she is an Avatar to the gods and the Lady of Battles wants her! She must do everything that she can to prevent herself from falling into the Lady's hands.
I thoroughly enjoyed this first book in the series and am looking forward to reading the rest of it. Lilian was a likeable character, although she did run ff a lot and get herself into tricky situations. She likes to think for herself and doesn't like to follow the advice/instructions of others if she think she can help. The gargoyle, Gregory, was frustrating to me. He constantly held back secrets to reveal them later, yet Lilian was fine with his secret keeping. I would have been much more annoyed at him for that than she was!
December 18, 2016
The story was dull and uneventful. The heroine was a little miss perfect type, one of those whose only "flaw" was that she rushed into danger without thinking about her safety first. Really not much of a flaw, and it made her a very boring character, I can't even remember her name.
I found it far more interesting that she never gave a second thought to the rest of her family, and only spoke to her Gran when she needed information from her. Her uncle and her brother were supposedly there in the same house as her but she never spoke to them at all. Not even one word!
The only saving grace here was the Gargoyle Gregory. He was rather lovely and was the only reason I finished the book.
I found it far more interesting that she never gave a second thought to the rest of her family, and only spoke to her Gran when she needed information from her. Her uncle and her brother were supposedly there in the same house as her but she never spoke to them at all. Not even one word!
The only saving grace here was the Gargoyle Gregory. He was rather lovely and was the only reason I finished the book.
February 12, 2018
I've had this book on my kindle for a while, and I don't know why it took me so long to read it.
Classic girl doesn't know she had power or who she is until some big bad shows up to take said power from her.
Then it gets better.
Witches, Fae, direwolves, vampires, Gods and Goddess', Unicorns!!
Even lesser know beings like leshii and dryads. You don't get many books like this.
It's a love story and a battle and awesome!!
Classic girl doesn't know she had power or who she is until some big bad shows up to take said power from her.
Then it gets better.
Witches, Fae, direwolves, vampires, Gods and Goddess', Unicorns!!
Even lesser know beings like leshii and dryads. You don't get many books like this.
It's a love story and a battle and awesome!!
August 25, 2018
As one would guess from the title, this is one of those "hidden powers" type of books where the protagonist has no idea of their powers until a catastrophic event unfolds. The difference here is that our heroine, Lillian, isn't all-powerful (as many tend to be), and she doesn't have the key to everything. Most things, just not everything. And...there just happens to be this little romantic thing with the gargoyle.
The pacing of the book is good and it was easy to go through, even with starts and stops. My two biggest issues were that I never got attached to anyone (something that can happen in the first book of a series) and Lillian's powers seemed to come and go as needed, having her "remember" things suddenly in time to use them, then have the knowledge disappear again. I know that part of the plot is that Gregory is keeping her from remembering things, but some of these things happened without his intervention.
I did like this book (not enough to go into the series), but whereas some books are like reading TV shows, this one felt more like CGI than actors. Things going "whiz" and "bang" and "boom," but the human element is just not fully there. And then mixing vampires and gargoyles and fairy creatures all together just felt disjointed to me. I could just never buy in.
Again, I liked this book, but not a lot, and certainly not enough to read more. Still, it's not bad, and if you like female heroines coming into their own, this book will likely appeal to you. Just don't expect deep, meaningful thought to come out of you afterwards.
The pacing of the book is good and it was easy to go through, even with starts and stops. My two biggest issues were that I never got attached to anyone (something that can happen in the first book of a series) and Lillian's powers seemed to come and go as needed, having her "remember" things suddenly in time to use them, then have the knowledge disappear again. I know that part of the plot is that Gregory is keeping her from remembering things, but some of these things happened without his intervention.
I did like this book (not enough to go into the series), but whereas some books are like reading TV shows, this one felt more like CGI than actors. Things going "whiz" and "bang" and "boom," but the human element is just not fully there. And then mixing vampires and gargoyles and fairy creatures all together just felt disjointed to me. I could just never buy in.
Again, I liked this book, but not a lot, and certainly not enough to read more. Still, it's not bad, and if you like female heroines coming into their own, this book will likely appeal to you. Just don't expect deep, meaningful thought to come out of you afterwards.
November 12, 2017
Earlier this week, I got notice from Amazon that I had purchased this book for $0.00 -- I thought it might be a Goodreads Giveaway but couldn't find any other e-mails about it and didn't even find the book in my list of Giveaways entered or won!
I took a peek at it and confess - I was hooked! It's not my usual genre of reading, but Lisa Blackwood is a very good writer and has obviously thought through a lot of the loopholes. The protagonist thinks she's a 22 year old human woman, but it turns out that she's a dyad -- but then turns out she's got a demon embedded in her consciousness that takes over. There are spells cast to block her memory to keep the demon's activity from reaching strength -- and the author does a really nice job of reflecting the protagonist's inner life and "who's in charge now" -- like Sybil.
The author also does a nice job of writing up titillating attraction dialogue - and it's all tease - the protagonist and her soul mate are never ever allowed to consummate or Bad Things Will Happen. Keeps the whole thing rather PG and forces focus on developing more of the characters and plots. I could see this going to the silver screen.
I took a peek at it and confess - I was hooked! It's not my usual genre of reading, but Lisa Blackwood is a very good writer and has obviously thought through a lot of the loopholes. The protagonist thinks she's a 22 year old human woman, but it turns out that she's a dyad -- but then turns out she's got a demon embedded in her consciousness that takes over. There are spells cast to block her memory to keep the demon's activity from reaching strength -- and the author does a really nice job of reflecting the protagonist's inner life and "who's in charge now" -- like Sybil.
The author also does a nice job of writing up titillating attraction dialogue - and it's all tease - the protagonist and her soul mate are never ever allowed to consummate or Bad Things Will Happen. Keeps the whole thing rather PG and forces focus on developing more of the characters and plots. I could see this going to the silver screen.
September 2, 2016
I had seen a lot of reviews about this book and I was pretty sure I wasn't going to like it. I'm not a massive fan of fantasy magic and I hate romance so it wasn't looking great. But I LOVE the book cover and I liked the short prequel I read to the series and decided to give it a try anyway.
Gregory is a gargoyle who can take human form and is sworn to protect his sorceress. They have been reborn to different forms over the many years together and always unite in a partnership to defeat evil. This time, the sorceress has been born in the kingdom of and brought up by the evil Lady of Battles and Gregory fears his mistress may have been tainted by evil when he rescued her and left her as a child in the protection of a witch coven. Now Lillian is a young women with no memory of her magic or who she really is, and is under attack by supernatural enemies and Gregory must awaken from his healing sleep to come to her aid.
I liked the plot of the book. Lillian and Gregory are trying to deal with the complex emotional relationship that they have which is made difficult by Gregory trying to prevent her from discovering the truth and her real memories and magical power. The Coven and the Clan, allied supernatural creatures in the area, are banding together to help Gregory fight the monsters and protect their land, but some are wary of whether to trust Lillian, especially when her true nature is revealed. Lillian herself is unsure if all of their allies can be trusted, and she doesn't even know if she can trust herself.
What really works for me in this series are the characters. I love Gregory, especially in his gargoyle protector form. He stole Lillian's memories when she was rescued as he was unsure what the Lady of Battles had done to her. If she could remember nothing of magic and her past lives, she would be safe from whatever evil may be hidden inside her, until Gregory can determine what it is and how to cure it. It does mean that Lillian is not aware of being his Sorceress and Mistress and struggles to accept what is happening around her. Gregory is a proper hero-brave, dedicated and willing to die for Lillian. He also loves her, knowing that mating is forbidden and punishable by death, which causes him great anguish.
Lillian is discovering that her whole life has been based on lies and that the family she grew up in are protecting her from evil and are not related to her in blood. She knows that Gregory is keeping secrets from all of them, and she feels magic and rage stirring within her that both excites and scares her. What I liked about her is that she is not a whiny brat who lashes out at them over the secrets. She quickly accepts her situation and tries to deal with it the best she can. I prefer that to chapters of 'life is unfair' stroppy kid angst! It was interesting to see Lillian developing her dryad and demon magic, and fighting not to lose control of herself.
The other characters are decent but I'd like to see them fleshed out a bit more. We only see flashes of Lillian's 'brother' Jason so I don't really have any thoughts about them. Her Gran is a great character-a powerful witch who loves Lillian as if she was her own blood, and she will fight to protect her. I want to see more of the amusing conflict between the unicorn and the pooka as I feel a bit more humour would add to the book. We also have dire wolves, dryads, evil vampires, fae, evil hounds and The Wild Hunt featuring in the battle scenes. There are no shortages of interesting creatures and different types of magic to enjoy through the book.
There are several action scenes spaced out throughout the book. The first is used to set the scene and introduce us to the characters , and it certainly gets the book off to an exciting start. We then delve into Lillian's changing world, whether or not the other Coven and Clan members will accept her and her confusing relationship with Gregory. The big battle occurs in the middle of the book and I very much enjoyed the way it was written. It leads to some of the secrets starting to be revealed to Lillian. There is more action towards the end of the book where we get a decent resolution to this part of the story without a terrible cliffhanger. There are also flashes of humour and the endearing relationship between Gregory and Lillian.
There are no sex scenes in the book as that is forbidden in their relationship but we explore their love in several lustful scenes, but mostly through their emotional connection to each other. I think that is why I was so invested in their relationship, despite my aversion to paranormal romance in general. Their agony over not being able to be together was almost heartbreaking at times and I hope they can find a solution where they can be happy together in a later book. Their hurt feelings over a thought in the other's head was very endearing at times and the urge to protect each other at their own expense was bittersweet.
I got quite involved in the emotional aspects of the book and despite it being slower paced than my normal reads, I found myself wanting to know what happens next. I liked the way the author put the story together, the way she developed the characters, and I certainly want to read more in the series. I recommend this for fans of fantasy and paranormal romance, yet those like me not heavily into the genres might enjoy it as well.
3.5 stars I think...
Gregory is a gargoyle who can take human form and is sworn to protect his sorceress. They have been reborn to different forms over the many years together and always unite in a partnership to defeat evil. This time, the sorceress has been born in the kingdom of and brought up by the evil Lady of Battles and Gregory fears his mistress may have been tainted by evil when he rescued her and left her as a child in the protection of a witch coven. Now Lillian is a young women with no memory of her magic or who she really is, and is under attack by supernatural enemies and Gregory must awaken from his healing sleep to come to her aid.
I liked the plot of the book. Lillian and Gregory are trying to deal with the complex emotional relationship that they have which is made difficult by Gregory trying to prevent her from discovering the truth and her real memories and magical power. The Coven and the Clan, allied supernatural creatures in the area, are banding together to help Gregory fight the monsters and protect their land, but some are wary of whether to trust Lillian, especially when her true nature is revealed. Lillian herself is unsure if all of their allies can be trusted, and she doesn't even know if she can trust herself.
What really works for me in this series are the characters. I love Gregory, especially in his gargoyle protector form. He stole Lillian's memories when she was rescued as he was unsure what the Lady of Battles had done to her. If she could remember nothing of magic and her past lives, she would be safe from whatever evil may be hidden inside her, until Gregory can determine what it is and how to cure it. It does mean that Lillian is not aware of being his Sorceress and Mistress and struggles to accept what is happening around her. Gregory is a proper hero-brave, dedicated and willing to die for Lillian. He also loves her, knowing that mating is forbidden and punishable by death, which causes him great anguish.
Lillian is discovering that her whole life has been based on lies and that the family she grew up in are protecting her from evil and are not related to her in blood. She knows that Gregory is keeping secrets from all of them, and she feels magic and rage stirring within her that both excites and scares her. What I liked about her is that she is not a whiny brat who lashes out at them over the secrets. She quickly accepts her situation and tries to deal with it the best she can. I prefer that to chapters of 'life is unfair' stroppy kid angst! It was interesting to see Lillian developing her dryad and demon magic, and fighting not to lose control of herself.
The other characters are decent but I'd like to see them fleshed out a bit more. We only see flashes of Lillian's 'brother' Jason so I don't really have any thoughts about them. Her Gran is a great character-a powerful witch who loves Lillian as if she was her own blood, and she will fight to protect her. I want to see more of the amusing conflict between the unicorn and the pooka as I feel a bit more humour would add to the book. We also have dire wolves, dryads, evil vampires, fae, evil hounds and The Wild Hunt featuring in the battle scenes. There are no shortages of interesting creatures and different types of magic to enjoy through the book.
There are several action scenes spaced out throughout the book. The first is used to set the scene and introduce us to the characters , and it certainly gets the book off to an exciting start. We then delve into Lillian's changing world, whether or not the other Coven and Clan members will accept her and her confusing relationship with Gregory. The big battle occurs in the middle of the book and I very much enjoyed the way it was written. It leads to some of the secrets starting to be revealed to Lillian. There is more action towards the end of the book where we get a decent resolution to this part of the story without a terrible cliffhanger. There are also flashes of humour and the endearing relationship between Gregory and Lillian.
There are no sex scenes in the book as that is forbidden in their relationship but we explore their love in several lustful scenes, but mostly through their emotional connection to each other. I think that is why I was so invested in their relationship, despite my aversion to paranormal romance in general. Their agony over not being able to be together was almost heartbreaking at times and I hope they can find a solution where they can be happy together in a later book. Their hurt feelings over a thought in the other's head was very endearing at times and the urge to protect each other at their own expense was bittersweet.
I got quite involved in the emotional aspects of the book and despite it being slower paced than my normal reads, I found myself wanting to know what happens next. I liked the way the author put the story together, the way she developed the characters, and I certainly want to read more in the series. I recommend this for fans of fantasy and paranormal romance, yet those like me not heavily into the genres might enjoy it as well.
3.5 stars I think...
September 5, 2022
I tried. DNF at around 20% - soooooo cheesy :( such a shame since the rest of the series seemed to get decent reviews….may have to give it another whirl in the future if I can get past all the “she’s my lady and I am her gargoyle who wears a loincloth” business…..
August 6, 2019
Enjoyable but nothing really new
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June 17, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (6/17/2020)! 🎁
April 7, 2018
This book starts off really good. The characters had a good basis for development, the plot was interesting, and the setting was decent. Sadly, about 25% of the way through the book, it starts going downhill. First, no one seems to want to Lillian what is going on. I understand Gregory's concerns about what happened to her, but the least everyone can do is fill her in on the reality of the world she is living in. Instead, she takes showers, eats, and makes goo-goo eyes at Gregory. Which is another issue... The book quickly went from a good fantasy novel to a sickening-sweet romance. (I have no problem with romance novels, but they have to have some kind of plot underlying the romance.) The book would have been a lot better if the author had left out many of the unrequited love scenes and just gotten on with the story.
October 8, 2019
This story feels magical. I can’t actually explain how, but reading this made me feel like this could actually happen next door. The magic system was very natural, the romance tantalising and the action was immersive.
While I felt there was a lot of explaining going on, I was actually so hooked on this book. This one was a real page-turner. There are some really immersive scenes, a lot of the magical aspects of the story are inventive and unexpected and the plot twists are up there with the best.
I felt like the beginning of the book was a bit rushed. I didn’t have any time to get to know Lillian at all or really care about her as a person before the action started happening. I know you’re supposed to start a book where the action happens but it started off in a bit of a mundane scene so I was sort of expecting a little bit of an intro.
The end stakes didn’t feel that important, as Lillian’s brother Jason is used as bait to lure her by demons. But the only time we meet Jason is right at the beginning of the book, very briefly. I didn’t have any time to connect with him so although it’s supposed to be quite important that her brother has been kidnapped, neither Lillian or the reader has actually connected with Jason.
The only other thing was that Lillian’s gargoyle, Gregory, while in his gargoyle form, does behave a little bit like a dog and it makes the romance a little bit awkward at the beginning. He does have a human form and that makes things a lot less awkward but to start with I was thinking: what the hell is going on here?
All in all, enjoyed very much!
While I felt there was a lot of explaining going on, I was actually so hooked on this book. This one was a real page-turner. There are some really immersive scenes, a lot of the magical aspects of the story are inventive and unexpected and the plot twists are up there with the best.
I felt like the beginning of the book was a bit rushed. I didn’t have any time to get to know Lillian at all or really care about her as a person before the action started happening. I know you’re supposed to start a book where the action happens but it started off in a bit of a mundane scene so I was sort of expecting a little bit of an intro.
The end stakes didn’t feel that important, as Lillian’s brother Jason is used as bait to lure her by demons. But the only time we meet Jason is right at the beginning of the book, very briefly. I didn’t have any time to connect with him so although it’s supposed to be quite important that her brother has been kidnapped, neither Lillian or the reader has actually connected with Jason.
The only other thing was that Lillian’s gargoyle, Gregory, while in his gargoyle form, does behave a little bit like a dog and it makes the romance a little bit awkward at the beginning. He does have a human form and that makes things a lot less awkward but to start with I was thinking: what the hell is going on here?
All in all, enjoyed very much!
June 2, 2017
3.5 stars, actually.
I was impressed with the obviously complicated and rich backstory behind the two main characters of Lillian, who accidentally wakes a stone statue of a Gargoyle when she's attacked by evil strangers one day, and Gregory, aforementioned Gargoyle.
Things aren't as simple as they seem; she isn't just a Sorceress, and he isn't just a gargoyle. There are other powers in other realms at work here, and lots of interesting conflict to discover.
I was also confused at times by the complicated backstory. And some of that confusion is because this story uses terms I thought I was familiar with in new ways (Lillian, besides being a Sorceress, is also a dryad, but she calls her tree her "hamadryad" etc).
There is no denying the angsty, forbidden love quotient here is high, though. Gregory and Lillian are forbidden, but that doesn't seem to stop them from willingly dying for each other and getting in some quick muzzle-nuzzling or first base nookie.
In my paranormal/urban fantasy, one thing that's a personal preference is for the magic system or supernatural to have rules and be logical and constrained. I, know, right, that seems a tad ironic. What can I say? It doesn't seem like a contradiction to me. In this book, Lillian and Gregory both have amorphous "power" that they draw from several different sources and seem to be able to do most anything with that power. Not my favorite magic system.
So high marks on angsty love, but not my personal taste for world-building.
I was impressed with the obviously complicated and rich backstory behind the two main characters of Lillian, who accidentally wakes a stone statue of a Gargoyle when she's attacked by evil strangers one day, and Gregory, aforementioned Gargoyle.
Things aren't as simple as they seem; she isn't just a Sorceress, and he isn't just a gargoyle. There are other powers in other realms at work here, and lots of interesting conflict to discover.
I was also confused at times by the complicated backstory. And some of that confusion is because this story uses terms I thought I was familiar with in new ways (Lillian, besides being a Sorceress, is also a dryad, but she calls her tree her "hamadryad" etc).
There is no denying the angsty, forbidden love quotient here is high, though. Gregory and Lillian are forbidden, but that doesn't seem to stop them from willingly dying for each other and getting in some quick muzzle-nuzzling or first base nookie.
In my paranormal/urban fantasy, one thing that's a personal preference is for the magic system or supernatural to have rules and be logical and constrained. I, know, right, that seems a tad ironic. What can I say? It doesn't seem like a contradiction to me. In this book, Lillian and Gregory both have amorphous "power" that they draw from several different sources and seem to be able to do most anything with that power. Not my favorite magic system.
So high marks on angsty love, but not my personal taste for world-building.
April 22, 2018
I was going through my Kindle, trying to decide what my next read would be, and found this novel tucked in amidst my expected books. I do not remember where I had heard of this book or the author, but buying this e-book wa definitely one of my better choices.
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Dryads & gargoyles & demons, oh my! And werewolves & vampires & unicorns and ... Suffice it to say that any mythical, magical creatures you have read about are involved in a war waging throughout the three realms; Spirit, Magic and Mortal. Lillian has always had a special place in her heart for the gargoyle statue in her backyard, next to her favorite tree. When she is attacked by monsters out of a nightmare, her gargoyle comes to life to protect her. Lillian's
life will never be the same. She not only is a dryad, a woodland spirit, but she is also the Sorceress, the avatar of the Divine Ones, the male and female gods above all others. Now Lillian and her gargoyle Protector, Gregory, are in a battle to save all three realms from being destroyed by the Lady of Battles.
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This novel was a lot longer than the page count would lead the reader to believe. Lisa Blackwood has created an entire world, in which the impossible becomes normal, and she ensnares the reader in a well-crafted and smartly-written story. The storyline is easy to follow, and the pace of action is sure to keep the reader flipping pages at a frantic rate. The ending to this superb definitely ensures the reader will be getting the next book in the series.
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My Rating: 4.5/5 stars
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Dryads & gargoyles & demons, oh my! And werewolves & vampires & unicorns and ... Suffice it to say that any mythical, magical creatures you have read about are involved in a war waging throughout the three realms; Spirit, Magic and Mortal. Lillian has always had a special place in her heart for the gargoyle statue in her backyard, next to her favorite tree. When she is attacked by monsters out of a nightmare, her gargoyle comes to life to protect her. Lillian's
life will never be the same. She not only is a dryad, a woodland spirit, but she is also the Sorceress, the avatar of the Divine Ones, the male and female gods above all others. Now Lillian and her gargoyle Protector, Gregory, are in a battle to save all three realms from being destroyed by the Lady of Battles.
.
This novel was a lot longer than the page count would lead the reader to believe. Lisa Blackwood has created an entire world, in which the impossible becomes normal, and she ensnares the reader in a well-crafted and smartly-written story. The storyline is easy to follow, and the pace of action is sure to keep the reader flipping pages at a frantic rate. The ending to this superb definitely ensures the reader will be getting the next book in the series.
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My Rating: 4.5/5 stars
May 6, 2018
I've just run out of love on this one I guess. I just finished reading three of this author's books in a row and I have to say I'm simply not impressed. I like the books well enough but nothing stands out as special or makes me really want more.
I like the world here. I guess it's "portal fiction". There are three realms: the mortal realm, magic realm, and spirit realm. The book takes place almost entirely in the mortal realm but the others are mentioned often. The major powers are interesting and complex enough that there is room for many great stories. It's a good world that the author has created.
But the problem is in the characters. They just stumble from one crisis to the next until at the end they stumble blindly onto a solution.
Also the writing style bothers me. The author can't seem to decide whether to write sensual erotica or straight fantasy. Most of it is just normal fantasy, but when the occasional intimate scene comes up (and they do, more often than is standard) the descriptions are exceptionally detailed and worded erotically. But then before the scene gets anywhere it gets interrupted by something else and we're back to regular fantasy again. If you're looking for erotica it will be frustrating, and if you're looking for just fiction it's a bit uncomfortable. Maybe there's a subset of readers who actually find that desirable, but it isn't me, that much I know.
Overall the book was okay - just okay. The other two of hers I read for free but this one I paid for, and I don't regret that, though I won't be doing that again.
I like the world here. I guess it's "portal fiction". There are three realms: the mortal realm, magic realm, and spirit realm. The book takes place almost entirely in the mortal realm but the others are mentioned often. The major powers are interesting and complex enough that there is room for many great stories. It's a good world that the author has created.
But the problem is in the characters. They just stumble from one crisis to the next until at the end they stumble blindly onto a solution.
Also the writing style bothers me. The author can't seem to decide whether to write sensual erotica or straight fantasy. Most of it is just normal fantasy, but when the occasional intimate scene comes up (and they do, more often than is standard) the descriptions are exceptionally detailed and worded erotically. But then before the scene gets anywhere it gets interrupted by something else and we're back to regular fantasy again. If you're looking for erotica it will be frustrating, and if you're looking for just fiction it's a bit uncomfortable. Maybe there's a subset of readers who actually find that desirable, but it isn't me, that much I know.
Overall the book was okay - just okay. The other two of hers I read for free but this one I paid for, and I don't regret that, though I won't be doing that again.
March 26, 2019
Reading the other reviews, I surmise this is not a book for everyone. However, I personally thoroughly enjoyed it. I read the Ishtar's Legacy series with great enjoyment, so gave this a try. Here are my notes I took while reading:
Meet Lillian, a dryad and her gargoyle protector, who is brought back to life just in time to save her from a group of evil Riven who demanded her magic. A joyful reunion after the battle. She is not who she thought: she is the Mother's Sorceress, and he is the God-blessed Protector. They are in a continuing war against the Lady of Battles. The Wild Hunt awakens her magic, but she is interrupted by a brutal attack by the Riven. Gregory is severely wounded. Lillian delves deep into her magic to save him, and defeat the Riven. Then she finds out more about the relationship between her and Gregory. Fearing the worst, Gregory searches her soul for evil, and finds even worse than he expected: a demon seed, planted by the Lady of Battles, growing from Lillian's magic, who will eventually control Lillian. A terrific battle ensues when the Riven want to sacrifice Lillian to gain the power of the sword of the Lord of the Underworld. How the threat from the demon is neutralized is in the concluding chapters, very neatly done. Great world-building; strong, well-developed characters; lots of sexual tension; gripping action; self-sacrifice to protect others; a well-developed plot and storyline - everything I could ask for in a book.
Meet Lillian, a dryad and her gargoyle protector, who is brought back to life just in time to save her from a group of evil Riven who demanded her magic. A joyful reunion after the battle. She is not who she thought: she is the Mother's Sorceress, and he is the God-blessed Protector. They are in a continuing war against the Lady of Battles. The Wild Hunt awakens her magic, but she is interrupted by a brutal attack by the Riven. Gregory is severely wounded. Lillian delves deep into her magic to save him, and defeat the Riven. Then she finds out more about the relationship between her and Gregory. Fearing the worst, Gregory searches her soul for evil, and finds even worse than he expected: a demon seed, planted by the Lady of Battles, growing from Lillian's magic, who will eventually control Lillian. A terrific battle ensues when the Riven want to sacrifice Lillian to gain the power of the sword of the Lord of the Underworld. How the threat from the demon is neutralized is in the concluding chapters, very neatly done. Great world-building; strong, well-developed characters; lots of sexual tension; gripping action; self-sacrifice to protect others; a well-developed plot and storyline - everything I could ask for in a book.
April 15, 2020
I really, really wanted to love this book. Gargoyles are criminally underrated in fantasy books, and the idea of it is just so much fun. And I will give credit where credit is due: This book does not lack in creativity, imagination, action, bold choices or writing style. It really does sweep readers up in that category.
Sadly, it just didn't strike any other chords for me. It really stretched the urban fantasy realm, introduced characters and then didn't bring them back or explain their relationship to Lillian or Gregory, and fell into the trope of the main character being capable of doing incredible things without needing to think about it. There were some loops in regards to this, but I still didn't buy it.
Nor did I buy the romance. The characters are OBSESSED with each other, but even the fated mate trope seemed exaggerated here. I also didn't feel like Lillian and Gregory were "real people."
I also struggled with understanding some of the creatures and world building. Maybe all these things will be expanded on later, and I would say it's great for anyone who is open to wild rides and inventive writing, but it sadly is not for me.
Sadly, it just didn't strike any other chords for me. It really stretched the urban fantasy realm, introduced characters and then didn't bring them back or explain their relationship to Lillian or Gregory, and fell into the trope of the main character being capable of doing incredible things without needing to think about it. There were some loops in regards to this, but I still didn't buy it.
Nor did I buy the romance. The characters are OBSESSED with each other, but even the fated mate trope seemed exaggerated here. I also didn't feel like Lillian and Gregory were "real people."
I also struggled with understanding some of the creatures and world building. Maybe all these things will be expanded on later, and I would say it's great for anyone who is open to wild rides and inventive writing, but it sadly is not for me.
July 20, 2017
My Disclaimer: I was provided a free copy of this book by the author’s representative. I am providing an honest review for which I am receiving no compensation of any kind. All opinions are fully my own.
~ Judi E. Easley for Blue Cat Review
My Review: ✮✮✮✮
This was a good story. Gregory sounds like a whole lot more fun than the gargoyles in The Hunchback of Notre Dame! He’s a lot bigger for one thing. And he’s sexy!
I felt the characters were well-written. Humorous at times. While Lillian had no memory of their joint history, what Gregory shared was really interesting. In this life, Lillian is a young woman, so the book seems to be more YA than NA. She responds and acts out more childishly than I would prefer in some instances. I think I would have liked her to be a more mature character to handle all that’s thrown at her. It also kept the relationship between the two on a certain level. So, it almost seemed like this was written to prepare for a series where she grows up and their relationship changes. That was a bit frustrating when I could see their relationship already.
Finding out that she is more than just what she appears changes the whole picture and possibilities for Lillian and Gregory. The ideas that went through my head when I found out left me with a bunch of questions, but I can’t mention them without spoilers. So, I can’t go into this like I’d like to. But what it does mean is that I’d like to read at least one more book in this series to see if any of my ideas and questions carry through or get answered. But for now, nothing can happen while Lillian’s trapped in her Hamadryad and purifying the baby demon she’s been carrying.
Sit down and read Sorceress Awakening this summer and see if you decide to add gargoyles to your garden! I’m definitely adding them to mine!
~ Judi E. Easley for Blue Cat Review
My Review: ✮✮✮✮
This was a good story. Gregory sounds like a whole lot more fun than the gargoyles in The Hunchback of Notre Dame! He’s a lot bigger for one thing. And he’s sexy!
I felt the characters were well-written. Humorous at times. While Lillian had no memory of their joint history, what Gregory shared was really interesting. In this life, Lillian is a young woman, so the book seems to be more YA than NA. She responds and acts out more childishly than I would prefer in some instances. I think I would have liked her to be a more mature character to handle all that’s thrown at her. It also kept the relationship between the two on a certain level. So, it almost seemed like this was written to prepare for a series where she grows up and their relationship changes. That was a bit frustrating when I could see their relationship already.
Finding out that she is more than just what she appears changes the whole picture and possibilities for Lillian and Gregory. The ideas that went through my head when I found out left me with a bunch of questions, but I can’t mention them without spoilers. So, I can’t go into this like I’d like to. But what it does mean is that I’d like to read at least one more book in this series to see if any of my ideas and questions carry through or get answered. But for now, nothing can happen while Lillian’s trapped in her Hamadryad and purifying the baby demon she’s been carrying.
Sit down and read Sorceress Awakening this summer and see if you decide to add gargoyles to your garden! I’m definitely adding them to mine!
October 1, 2020
Dryers, gargoyles,a unicorn ,witches and a host of other magical creatures...delightful!
I have avoided reading The Sorceress Awakening because frankly a fantasy that includes a romance between a living gargoyle and a Sorceress was just too much for even my magic fantasy loving mind. But, WOW! Lisa Blackwood's way of weaving a tale full of good and evil magical creatures is masterful. She has an amazing ability to create a fantasy world and bring it to life so that it seems you are one with the characters. I was not just an outside observer I was immersed in this world, running in the fields with the Clan and Coven. I fought the evil enemy along with them and cried when characters I had come to love were injured or killed. I am hooked and can hardly wait to start book 2 in this series. If like me you think a stone gargoyle and a Sorceress is just not your cup of tea, I urge to set aside your prejudice and pick up one of the most exciting, riveting fantasies In have read in awhile!
I have avoided reading The Sorceress Awakening because frankly a fantasy that includes a romance between a living gargoyle and a Sorceress was just too much for even my magic fantasy loving mind. But, WOW! Lisa Blackwood's way of weaving a tale full of good and evil magical creatures is masterful. She has an amazing ability to create a fantasy world and bring it to life so that it seems you are one with the characters. I was not just an outside observer I was immersed in this world, running in the fields with the Clan and Coven. I fought the evil enemy along with them and cried when characters I had come to love were injured or killed. I am hooked and can hardly wait to start book 2 in this series. If like me you think a stone gargoyle and a Sorceress is just not your cup of tea, I urge to set aside your prejudice and pick up one of the most exciting, riveting fantasies In have read in awhile!
October 9, 2025
Sadly disappointing
Good and evil magical creatures battle it out in the fields and woodlands of the North American countryside. Inter-dimensional barriers need to be protected. Demons, magic, witches, dryads, vampires, shapeshifters, unicorns, goddesses, shared consciousness, reincarnation and romance. All these elements contribute to a fantastic make-believe world and the storyline flows smoothly, laced with action and angst as the heroine bumbles through her memory loss and forbidden love.
The author has linked these threads into a cohesive story that will appeal to many. It has a lot of promise.
But wait, is Lillian, the heroine, on the side of good or is she being manipulated by evil forces? May be you have to buy the next in the series to find out. And please explain why a 12 year old girl and a 4 day old gargoyle can't stop thinking about having sex with each other! There is a lot of characters, a lot of confusion and the plot devices of memory loss and reincarnation just don't help.
Good and evil magical creatures battle it out in the fields and woodlands of the North American countryside. Inter-dimensional barriers need to be protected. Demons, magic, witches, dryads, vampires, shapeshifters, unicorns, goddesses, shared consciousness, reincarnation and romance. All these elements contribute to a fantastic make-believe world and the storyline flows smoothly, laced with action and angst as the heroine bumbles through her memory loss and forbidden love.
The author has linked these threads into a cohesive story that will appeal to many. It has a lot of promise.
But wait, is Lillian, the heroine, on the side of good or is she being manipulated by evil forces? May be you have to buy the next in the series to find out. And please explain why a 12 year old girl and a 4 day old gargoyle can't stop thinking about having sex with each other! There is a lot of characters, a lot of confusion and the plot devices of memory loss and reincarnation just don't help.
April 13, 2024
An enjoyable story with a very lovable but fierce and protective gargoyle (I am sure most readers love him). I think people should read the ‘prequel’ to this story, if they haven’t already, it will give you some insight about the sorceress and her gargoyle. It’s a story full of potential, so I will be reading the next book soon to find out if the series is worth it.
I do agree with other reviewers that not much is known about the other characters and ‘species’ in the book, I even forgot Lilian had an uncle! (Some reviewer mentioned him, and I was so confused…who?). The sorceress, Lillian, and the demon soul, they feel like completely different characters. Yes, the demon soul I can understand…but Lilian is talking about the sorceress as if it’s someone else entirely. Her brother does get a bigger role in other books, so hopefully, readers will get to know other characters better and have more answers.
I do agree with other reviewers that not much is known about the other characters and ‘species’ in the book, I even forgot Lilian had an uncle! (Some reviewer mentioned him, and I was so confused…who?). The sorceress, Lillian, and the demon soul, they feel like completely different characters. Yes, the demon soul I can understand…but Lilian is talking about the sorceress as if it’s someone else entirely. Her brother does get a bigger role in other books, so hopefully, readers will get to know other characters better and have more answers.
April 19, 2021
I'm a little bit disappointed. I thought this would be a little better. Actually, someone's whole review is "Lame-a-saurus" and I think that sums it up. It starts out with Lillian being a Dryad and Gregory is her Gargoyle. There is no such things as male Dryads nor female gargoyles, so you see how this is going. But we're going to mix things up by actually having Lillian and Gregory two beings with one soul who are the Mother & Father God's avatars. Forever reborn and destined to be together but never allowed to be together. I'm just so confused. And to be honest, I kind of fazed out towards the end.
I'm going to give the author a second chance. I happen to own the first 3 books and this was her first book written, adding the fact that book 2 came out 5 years later, I'd like to think she gets better.
I'm going to give the author a second chance. I happen to own the first 3 books and this was her first book written, adding the fact that book 2 came out 5 years later, I'd like to think she gets better.
July 18, 2017
This book was brilliant I got it from a freebie special for the month in paranormal and had no idea what it was about.
The cover got me hook line and sinker,It's a brilliant story of the paranormal world,it's unique different and a style of its own.
I almost peed my pants when I realized there was a gargoyle in it,Squeeeeeeee gargoyles are the hottest paranormal beings out!
I have loved them since I was a child and it was a real treat to discover this book and author I needed a ripper of a read and this book was it.
Massive thumbs up a highly recommended, I think any book lover would love,especially if your a paranormal fantasy fan.
I'm in lurve with this story and I want to read more from this author!
Assassins Reading Reviewing Group ~
The cover got me hook line and sinker,It's a brilliant story of the paranormal world,it's unique different and a style of its own.
I almost peed my pants when I realized there was a gargoyle in it,Squeeeeeeee gargoyles are the hottest paranormal beings out!
I have loved them since I was a child and it was a real treat to discover this book and author I needed a ripper of a read and this book was it.
Massive thumbs up a highly recommended, I think any book lover would love,especially if your a paranormal fantasy fan.
I'm in lurve with this story and I want to read more from this author!
Assassins Reading Reviewing Group ~
November 11, 2017
I wanted to love this book. I mean, gargoyle and sorceress, right? What a combo, sure to be awesome. Except it isn’t. Bummer!
I was left too many times while reading going, “Wait, what?” Too many weird left turns. She’s his sorceress, no she’s a dryad. She may have been contaminated by the Lady of Battles, oh no she has a demon inside her. She has no memory, she has a memory, so take away her memory. Is she evil? Or isn’t she evil and if she says she’s evil is she really trying to protect the gargoyle? We’ve loved each other through many lifetimes, but we can’t have sex, because we’re so fertile you’ll get pregnant and give birth to a god and then we’ll be killed. Huh?
Yeah... I made it through this one, but I won’t be reading the next. So bummed!
I was left too many times while reading going, “Wait, what?” Too many weird left turns. She’s his sorceress, no she’s a dryad. She may have been contaminated by the Lady of Battles, oh no she has a demon inside her. She has no memory, she has a memory, so take away her memory. Is she evil? Or isn’t she evil and if she says she’s evil is she really trying to protect the gargoyle? We’ve loved each other through many lifetimes, but we can’t have sex, because we’re so fertile you’ll get pregnant and give birth to a god and then we’ll be killed. Huh?
Yeah... I made it through this one, but I won’t be reading the next. So bummed!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 15, 2018
This is the first book I’ve read by this author and it was great! It’s the first book in the series and was so interesting with all the supernatural creatures. Dryad, gargoyle, unicorn, vampires, and it goes on!
Lillian comes into her powers after an attack by vampires and wakes up her gargoyle statue who ends up saving her. She and the gargoyle, who she names Gregory, have a very special connection, but you have to read the book to see what it is.
This story flowed very smoothly and I finished it in a couple of days. I’m looking forward to the next book and wish the series was still on KU.
There are a lot of fight scenes in the story and are a bit graphic so just be prepared. No sex scenes, completely clean.
Lillian comes into her powers after an attack by vampires and wakes up her gargoyle statue who ends up saving her. She and the gargoyle, who she names Gregory, have a very special connection, but you have to read the book to see what it is.
This story flowed very smoothly and I finished it in a couple of days. I’m looking forward to the next book and wish the series was still on KU.
There are a lot of fight scenes in the story and are a bit graphic so just be prepared. No sex scenes, completely clean.
November 23, 2021
This is a story about little girl whose parents were killed when she was 9 years old. She then went to live with her gran. There she was attacked by evil and possessed by a demon she did not know existed. Demon attacked her and as she was dying she crawled to a statue of a gargoyle. She didn’t want to die alone she wanted to die in his embrace. Lillian did not know that her embrace would turn the gargoyle into a man. She did not know if what kind of man he was human alien, it did not matter. The Gargoyle was a protector and he would give his life for her. This is wonderfully written. It is a story of life and death. A story of love and hate. Once you read this story you will learn a little more about your self and how you see the world we live in.
March 1, 2023
A touching romance wrapped in a very good urban fantasy. Good world building and engaging characters.
One stinker of a complaint though, the first chapter is a "drop the reader into the action" timeline jump of a few minutes ahead which I found confused the plot, added nothing to the narrative experience as the events are covered in greater (and more organic) detail over the next two chapters and ultimately leaves the first contact with the book feeling like the author didn't trust in their ability to keep the reader engaged from page 1.
My suggestion? Skip chapter 1 and start from chapter 2. You will avoid a narrative dissonance while still experiencing all the major and minor beats of the narrative.
One stinker of a complaint though, the first chapter is a "drop the reader into the action" timeline jump of a few minutes ahead which I found confused the plot, added nothing to the narrative experience as the events are covered in greater (and more organic) detail over the next two chapters and ultimately leaves the first contact with the book feeling like the author didn't trust in their ability to keep the reader engaged from page 1.
My suggestion? Skip chapter 1 and start from chapter 2. You will avoid a narrative dissonance while still experiencing all the major and minor beats of the narrative.
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