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The Gargoyle Prophecies #1
The Gargoyle Prophecies, Part I, The Savior Rises
With a tattered Raggedy Ann doll as her only companion, Stefani has spent her entire life immersed in self isolation. As a 10-year-old child she was the lone witness to her mother's murder. She vowed to find the man who robbed her of all she held dear in the world and ensure he suffers as she has before he takes his final breath.Her childhood is consumed with training in the hopes of one day finding the scar-faced killer. But her world up-ends as her 21st birthday looms when she discovers she isn't the hunter. She is the one being hunted, and her predators are not human. Stefani finally opens herself up for the first time, allowing Dennis into her life, revealing her emotions to her hopeful protector. But her fear and confusion mount when he reveals he is a gargoyle - and she is, as well. Dennis claims Stefani is the key to the future of the gargoyle world. She is the Chosen One, and she is in danger. Dark forces covet her imminent power and will use any means to steal it. Stefani's mind swims with peril she neither understands nor is sure she believes. She questions everything, including her grip on reality.As Stefani battles the damned across the globe, she searches for answers about her identity. Is she truly the savior of an inhuman race or has her solitude and the trauma of her mother's death finally infected her sanity?
220 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 1, 2010
3 people are currently reading
430 people want to read
About the author
Christopher C. Payne
6 books219 followersChristopher C. Payne was born in January 1967 and grew up in DeSoto, IL. He received his bachelor’s degree in finance from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale, graduating in 1990. Currently, he lives in San Francisco, CA. In his spare time, he enjoys biking and snowboarding with his two daughters and an amazing wife.
Chris dabbled with writing in his spare time before deciding he would be better served focusing on the publishing side of the literary industry. He founded JournalStone in April of 2009. JournalStone began as a blog before transitioning to a publishing company in the fall of 2010.
Journalstone shot out of the gate by immediately launching a short story contest, then a full blown novel writing contest and quickly began to sign authors. Getting some help from a few HWA members Chris established some author friendly procedures and was well on his way to publishing books. That Which Should Not Be, the winner of the inaugural writing contest in 2011, received a warm welcome on its publication date and was subsequently honored by being nominated for a HWA 2011 Bram Stoker Award for Superior Achievement in a First Novel. Ghosts of Coronado Bay, another 2011 JournalStone offering was also nominated for a HWA 2011 Bram Stoker Award for Superior Achievement in a Young Adult novel.
With two books nominated for awards in JournalStone’s first 12 months of operation, Chris is still not willing to slow down. 2012 has already seen JournalStone on the front cover of Publishers Weekly magazine in an April issue; with three of its authors highlighted on the inside cover. Additionally, Joseph Nassise (international bestselling author), Jonathan Maberry (New York Times bestselling author), and Benjamin Kane Ethridge (2010 Bram Stoker Award winner), have been added as JournalStone signed authors, complimenting Brett J. Talley and Anne C. Petty on a shared world anthology titled Limbus, to be released in the fall of 2012.
Look for more announcements from JournalStone as they continue to flourish, establishing their place as one of the premier genre publishing companies in today’s rapidly fluctuating market.
Chris dabbled with writing in his spare time before deciding he would be better served focusing on the publishing side of the literary industry. He founded JournalStone in April of 2009. JournalStone began as a blog before transitioning to a publishing company in the fall of 2010.
Journalstone shot out of the gate by immediately launching a short story contest, then a full blown novel writing contest and quickly began to sign authors. Getting some help from a few HWA members Chris established some author friendly procedures and was well on his way to publishing books. That Which Should Not Be, the winner of the inaugural writing contest in 2011, received a warm welcome on its publication date and was subsequently honored by being nominated for a HWA 2011 Bram Stoker Award for Superior Achievement in a First Novel. Ghosts of Coronado Bay, another 2011 JournalStone offering was also nominated for a HWA 2011 Bram Stoker Award for Superior Achievement in a Young Adult novel.
With two books nominated for awards in JournalStone’s first 12 months of operation, Chris is still not willing to slow down. 2012 has already seen JournalStone on the front cover of Publishers Weekly magazine in an April issue; with three of its authors highlighted on the inside cover. Additionally, Joseph Nassise (international bestselling author), Jonathan Maberry (New York Times bestselling author), and Benjamin Kane Ethridge (2010 Bram Stoker Award winner), have been added as JournalStone signed authors, complimenting Brett J. Talley and Anne C. Petty on a shared world anthology titled Limbus, to be released in the fall of 2012.
Look for more announcements from JournalStone as they continue to flourish, establishing their place as one of the premier genre publishing companies in today’s rapidly fluctuating market.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
October 8, 2010
Title: humility and other failures.
forward: I am not really sure how to review this book. I didn't really like the beginning, but I have to say I found the end to be one of the most genius things I have read on the level of harkaway and Nicholls, I know I complained bitterly about both of them, fucking deal I'm a complicated girl. so this review will be done in parts one or more of which may be labeled for spoilers, I haven't decided yet.
Prologue: this has no relevance to the book really feel free to skip it.
There are many ways to love the greeks designated well probably a lot but three I know off the top of my head: eros, agape, philia. Eros being romantic love, specifically between two men, something mfso will sadly never experience. agape being the love god feels for man which none of us will ever experience. and philla beign friendship and much less interesting than all that other stuff. In arabic(at least in lebanon I don't know how many of these are dialect and slang) there are separate words for romantic love and "I want to have sex with you" love among other things. I don't remember the specific words anymore sadly but I think I was given maybe 10 words that were different types of love.
So now lets talk the actual reality of the situation there are several ways to love another person. We will for this review refer to there as mom, dad, and DG (trying to protect identity however poorly here).
Now my mother and I have a very weird relationship. Basically one that wasn't one until fairly recently. And I do these days believe that my mother loves me. But she sure as fuck isn't jumping in front of a train to save me. However, on some emotional level there would be an issue for her if I didn't exist. On a scale of 1 to 10 we are going to call this a solid 5.
My father on the other hand has a more guilt driven rational thing going on. He doesn't care terribly that I'm around or think about my existence much. But he knows rationally he is suppose to love me to make up for this he gives me large presents. I mean if you cant have love really payoffs are the next best thing, or the actual best thing. This will be 1 on our scale a rational attachment that is not mediated by any irrational emotional contexts.
Last we have the DG issue. Here we are going to mark 10 on our scale. This is when we are talking about the destructive brand of love. The sort that makes people reasonably dysfunctional in the presence of the person, constantly terrified, and commonly miserable. Basically the type of love most people think they want but would be annoyed if they actually found. From my experience it tends to be the end product of years of friendship fairly chaotic and a really really good time.
Review:
This book has a lot of weird annoying plot structure "issues" (they are for me not for a lot of people I'm sure). It at points read heavily like genre fiction and I mean I'm really not a giant fan of genre fiction.
The female character was a no for me for a lot of the book. I mean I'm sorry but the chick is just downright stupid.
Okay I don't want to be mean though cause I did like this book a lot. The end is great and the last 40 pages makes up for everything that I disliked in the rest of the book.
That bit in the prologue actually now becomes relevant to the review. Stefani has a tendency to love only in the destructive manner, and to get there very quickly. I mean there is a serious problem for her as a person because she can't actually manage any real type of relationship. You can't just jump into the intense fear/obsession stage of love you have to start with something a hell of a lot more banal like acquaintance. Basically there is something wrong in this chicks head. I think if you can accept this early in the book you will enjoy the book a lot it took me a long time to get over the fact she just downright bugged me as a human being.
Afterward:
I can't tell you any of the really awesome stuff about this book cause it is all spoilers, but I can tell you the book is totally awesome and definitely worth a read. and has a Mr. peanut worthy ending.
I am sleepy and that is all.
forward: I am not really sure how to review this book. I didn't really like the beginning, but I have to say I found the end to be one of the most genius things I have read on the level of harkaway and Nicholls, I know I complained bitterly about both of them, fucking deal I'm a complicated girl. so this review will be done in parts one or more of which may be labeled for spoilers, I haven't decided yet.
Prologue: this has no relevance to the book really feel free to skip it.
There are many ways to love the greeks designated well probably a lot but three I know off the top of my head: eros, agape, philia. Eros being romantic love, specifically between two men, something mfso will sadly never experience. agape being the love god feels for man which none of us will ever experience. and philla beign friendship and much less interesting than all that other stuff. In arabic(at least in lebanon I don't know how many of these are dialect and slang) there are separate words for romantic love and "I want to have sex with you" love among other things. I don't remember the specific words anymore sadly but I think I was given maybe 10 words that were different types of love.
So now lets talk the actual reality of the situation there are several ways to love another person. We will for this review refer to there as mom, dad, and DG (trying to protect identity however poorly here).
Now my mother and I have a very weird relationship. Basically one that wasn't one until fairly recently. And I do these days believe that my mother loves me. But she sure as fuck isn't jumping in front of a train to save me. However, on some emotional level there would be an issue for her if I didn't exist. On a scale of 1 to 10 we are going to call this a solid 5.
My father on the other hand has a more guilt driven rational thing going on. He doesn't care terribly that I'm around or think about my existence much. But he knows rationally he is suppose to love me to make up for this he gives me large presents. I mean if you cant have love really payoffs are the next best thing, or the actual best thing. This will be 1 on our scale a rational attachment that is not mediated by any irrational emotional contexts.
Last we have the DG issue. Here we are going to mark 10 on our scale. This is when we are talking about the destructive brand of love. The sort that makes people reasonably dysfunctional in the presence of the person, constantly terrified, and commonly miserable. Basically the type of love most people think they want but would be annoyed if they actually found. From my experience it tends to be the end product of years of friendship fairly chaotic and a really really good time.
Review:
This book has a lot of weird annoying plot structure "issues" (they are for me not for a lot of people I'm sure). It at points read heavily like genre fiction and I mean I'm really not a giant fan of genre fiction.
The female character was a no for me for a lot of the book. I mean I'm sorry but the chick is just downright stupid.
Okay I don't want to be mean though cause I did like this book a lot. The end is great and the last 40 pages makes up for everything that I disliked in the rest of the book.
That bit in the prologue actually now becomes relevant to the review. Stefani has a tendency to love only in the destructive manner, and to get there very quickly. I mean there is a serious problem for her as a person because she can't actually manage any real type of relationship. You can't just jump into the intense fear/obsession stage of love you have to start with something a hell of a lot more banal like acquaintance. Basically there is something wrong in this chicks head. I think if you can accept this early in the book you will enjoy the book a lot it took me a long time to get over the fact she just downright bugged me as a human being.
Afterward:
I can't tell you any of the really awesome stuff about this book cause it is all spoilers, but I can tell you the book is totally awesome and definitely worth a read. and has a Mr. peanut worthy ending.
I am sleepy and that is all.
November 16, 2010
This book was wild and non-stop gargoyle action from start to finish. I don't even know how to describe it. I'll just say that it's not for the really squeamish or kids. I really enjoyed it and look forward to reading more. Well done,Mr.Payne.
June 4, 2016
The Gargoyle Prophecies, Part 1, The Savior Rises, has an interesting story - or more specifically, it has an interesting idea that hasn't been fully fleshed out into a story. As I read the book, I felt as though I was reading the first draft of a novel, one with many flaws and rough spots. Had this been a rough draft, I would have announced the book to be a success. Unfortunately, the book is masquerading as a finished product and therefore, I can't be as kind.
I read the book over two nights, and both nights I found myself laughing at dialogue passages that sounded stilted, strange, or just plain silly. I ground my teeth in frustration over choppy descriptive sections, and I wondered over parts of the story that needed to be cut, while others should have been fleshed out. At one point, I had to stop reading to tell my husband that I desperately wanted to mail the author a thesaurus. It's obvious to me that he really enjoys the words "ironically" and "luckily", but when these words are used multiple times within two pages of each other, I have to question why no one else pointed this out to him before the book was published.
The story is one that could be good, but before the story can be enjoyed it needs to transcend the technical issues that are holding it back. I think that with the help of an honest editor and a few re-writes, this book could be worthy of a look.
I read the book over two nights, and both nights I found myself laughing at dialogue passages that sounded stilted, strange, or just plain silly. I ground my teeth in frustration over choppy descriptive sections, and I wondered over parts of the story that needed to be cut, while others should have been fleshed out. At one point, I had to stop reading to tell my husband that I desperately wanted to mail the author a thesaurus. It's obvious to me that he really enjoys the words "ironically" and "luckily", but when these words are used multiple times within two pages of each other, I have to question why no one else pointed this out to him before the book was published.
The story is one that could be good, but before the story can be enjoyed it needs to transcend the technical issues that are holding it back. I think that with the help of an honest editor and a few re-writes, this book could be worthy of a look.
November 9, 2010
I have been reading much more sci-fi and paranormal then I usually do, I have no idea why. That being said, I thought I would just start to get into a groove and sit back and enjoy the reading. I hit a couple winners for this week. Today I am featuring Christopher Payne and his debut The Gargoyle Prophecies. Debuts are a mixed grab bag; this one sits near the top. The plotline is different from anything I have read or seen about gargoyles. He has set himself apart with this.
Here is the synopsis of the novel: “With a tattered Raggedy Ann doll as her only companion, Stefani has spent her entire life immersed in self isolation. As a 10-year-old child she was the lone witness to her mother's murder. She vowed to find the man who robbed her of all she held dear in the world, and ensure he suffers as she has before he takes his final breath.
Her childhood is consumed with training in the hopes of one day finding the scarred-face killer. But her world up-ends as her 21st birthday looms when she discovers she isn't the hunter. She is the one being hunted, and her predators are not human. Stefani finally opens herself up for the first time, allowing Dennis into her life and revealing her emotions to her hopeful protector. But her fear and confusion mount when he reveals he is a gargoyle - and she is, as well.
Dennis claims Stefani is the key to the future of the gargoyle world. She is the Chosen One, and she is in danger. Dark forces covet her imminent power and will use any means to steal it. Stefani's mind swims with peril she neither understands nor is sure she believes. She questions everything, including her grip on reality. As Stefani battles the damned across the globe, she searches for answers about her identity. Is she truly the savior of an inhuman race or has her solitude and the trauma of her mother's death finally infected her sanity? “
Pretty serious stuff and it is a well done novel with plenty of action on both ends. The beginning is like getting shot out of a rocket and then the story builds from there till we hit a very unique and power packed ending. I am glad he already has it in the title that this is going to be a series because I would like to follow Stefani and find out where she goes, what she does and how she finally , if she ever does, find her place in this world or any other.
The Gargoyle Prophesies is definitely worth the time of the read. I don’t hesitate to suggest it for the reasons I mentioned and many more. Ruining the story and giving spoilers is not my thing and if I say anymore I feel I may ruin a good read. Check out Christopher Payne’s debut novel; follow the life and times of a young Stefani as she begins to find her way.
What are you reading today? Check us out and become our friend on Shelfari & Linkedin. Go to Goodreads and become our friend there and suggest books for us to read and post on. You can also follow us on Twitter, and the Gelati’s Scoop Facebook Fan Page. Did you know you can shop directly on Amazon by clicking the Gelati’s Store Tab on our blog? Thanks for stopping by today; We will see you tomorrow. Have a great day. http://www.gelatisscoop.blogspot.com
Here is the synopsis of the novel: “With a tattered Raggedy Ann doll as her only companion, Stefani has spent her entire life immersed in self isolation. As a 10-year-old child she was the lone witness to her mother's murder. She vowed to find the man who robbed her of all she held dear in the world, and ensure he suffers as she has before he takes his final breath.
Her childhood is consumed with training in the hopes of one day finding the scarred-face killer. But her world up-ends as her 21st birthday looms when she discovers she isn't the hunter. She is the one being hunted, and her predators are not human. Stefani finally opens herself up for the first time, allowing Dennis into her life and revealing her emotions to her hopeful protector. But her fear and confusion mount when he reveals he is a gargoyle - and she is, as well.
Dennis claims Stefani is the key to the future of the gargoyle world. She is the Chosen One, and she is in danger. Dark forces covet her imminent power and will use any means to steal it. Stefani's mind swims with peril she neither understands nor is sure she believes. She questions everything, including her grip on reality. As Stefani battles the damned across the globe, she searches for answers about her identity. Is she truly the savior of an inhuman race or has her solitude and the trauma of her mother's death finally infected her sanity? “
Pretty serious stuff and it is a well done novel with plenty of action on both ends. The beginning is like getting shot out of a rocket and then the story builds from there till we hit a very unique and power packed ending. I am glad he already has it in the title that this is going to be a series because I would like to follow Stefani and find out where she goes, what she does and how she finally , if she ever does, find her place in this world or any other.
The Gargoyle Prophesies is definitely worth the time of the read. I don’t hesitate to suggest it for the reasons I mentioned and many more. Ruining the story and giving spoilers is not my thing and if I say anymore I feel I may ruin a good read. Check out Christopher Payne’s debut novel; follow the life and times of a young Stefani as she begins to find her way.
What are you reading today? Check us out and become our friend on Shelfari & Linkedin. Go to Goodreads and become our friend there and suggest books for us to read and post on. You can also follow us on Twitter, and the Gelati’s Scoop Facebook Fan Page. Did you know you can shop directly on Amazon by clicking the Gelati’s Store Tab on our blog? Thanks for stopping by today; We will see you tomorrow. Have a great day. http://www.gelatisscoop.blogspot.com
November 6, 2010
Stefani saw her mother murdered when she was ten, and now at 21 things are getting weird. She's throwing up black vomit and seeing people turn into flying gargoyles. The action and fight scenes are fun and surprisingly brutal (you have to kill a gargoyle by stabbing it in the heart and cutting of its head) and I was really liking the beginning of the book.
When Stefani started waking up back in her bed every morning after having crazy globe-trotting adventures, and began to question reality - that's where it all fell apart for me. I respect the author for trying to add in another dimension to your normal fantasy novel, but it became SO repetitive, I literally skimmed the last 50 pages to just see if it was all real or not. She wakes up in her bed like this at least five times. And then there's her mother not being dead, her dad being the bad guy, and the annoyingly incessant times where a new boy sidekick character is introduced and immediately killed. It came to the point where I could tell right of the bat if they would die: you have a penis, and you get within five feet of this chick = death. Not so surprising after the seventh time.
It was just way too all over the place. And then I thought I was getting what I wanted in the end, and was like "Hell yeah, I'll read the next ones" and then I read the epilogue. It's like the author couldn't decide himself if he wanted it to be really happening or not, so kept changing his mind every chapter.
There's also the repetitive writing and characters you can't relate to because A) she's the main character who's the kind of person that knows she looks good and immediately falls in love with any d-bag with a six pack or B) a guy who you know will die soon anyway, so who cares anymore?
Just, avoid.
When Stefani started waking up back in her bed every morning after having crazy globe-trotting adventures, and began to question reality - that's where it all fell apart for me. I respect the author for trying to add in another dimension to your normal fantasy novel, but it became SO repetitive, I literally skimmed the last 50 pages to just see if it was all real or not. She wakes up in her bed like this at least five times. And then there's her mother not being dead, her dad being the bad guy, and the annoyingly incessant times where a new boy sidekick character is introduced and immediately killed. It came to the point where I could tell right of the bat if they would die: you have a penis, and you get within five feet of this chick = death. Not so surprising after the seventh time.
It was just way too all over the place. And then I thought I was getting what I wanted in the end, and was like "Hell yeah, I'll read the next ones" and then I read the epilogue. It's like the author couldn't decide himself if he wanted it to be really happening or not, so kept changing his mind every chapter.
There's also the repetitive writing and characters you can't relate to because A) she's the main character who's the kind of person that knows she looks good and immediately falls in love with any d-bag with a six pack or B) a guy who you know will die soon anyway, so who cares anymore?
Just, avoid.
October 31, 2010
This book is an action-packed psychological thriller with some touches of fantasy content. It is about a young woman with a tragic past that a lot of bad things happened to and continues to happen to. At least on the surface, as the book goes on the author tries to make you doubt the story told from the beginning. At least three separate stories are told that arrive at the end of the book from different directions. Which one that is true is still not shown at the end of the book.
What I disliked about this book was the lack of descriptions. I often found myself wondering what things looked like. It felt like the background areas were sketched in, the author instead choosing to focus on moving the action and plot forward. For some this might lead to them sitting on the edge of their seat and breathlessly turning the pages. For me it led to a break in immersion when I tried to create the surroundings the action took place in.
I would recommend this for people that want a psychological thriller with a lot of action, not for fans of epic fantasy or similar genres.
I think I will read the next part just to find out how it continues, the completionist in me strikes. :)
What I disliked about this book was the lack of descriptions. I often found myself wondering what things looked like. It felt like the background areas were sketched in, the author instead choosing to focus on moving the action and plot forward. For some this might lead to them sitting on the edge of their seat and breathlessly turning the pages. For me it led to a break in immersion when I tried to create the surroundings the action took place in.
I would recommend this for people that want a psychological thriller with a lot of action, not for fans of epic fantasy or similar genres.
I think I will read the next part just to find out how it continues, the completionist in me strikes. :)
October 30, 2010
I loved this book. I honestly did. I got it today and started reading it by about 4:30 pm. I stopped reading long enough to feed my family and put my kids to bed. I finished the book about 10:30pm.
It was fast paced and exciting. There is no good place to stop because you keep telling yourself that in the next few pages, you will find out more. Those few pages turn into chapters. Pretty soon, the night is late and the book is done.
This story was incredible and I found myself staring with my mouth hanging wide open thinking " OH MY GOSH did that just happen". TOTAL suprises all the time. I did get confused a few times but realized I was supposed to be confused. The main character is Stefanie.I love her. I cannot wait to read more about her.
Gargoyles are not usually the main characters in a book. This one they are and I really love gargoyles now. They have always fascinated me and I now I know more about them. I cannot wait to get back into their world and live through their lives.
Super story Christopher. Looking forward to the next book!
Thank you!!!!
It was fast paced and exciting. There is no good place to stop because you keep telling yourself that in the next few pages, you will find out more. Those few pages turn into chapters. Pretty soon, the night is late and the book is done.
This story was incredible and I found myself staring with my mouth hanging wide open thinking " OH MY GOSH did that just happen". TOTAL suprises all the time. I did get confused a few times but realized I was supposed to be confused. The main character is Stefanie.I love her. I cannot wait to read more about her.
Gargoyles are not usually the main characters in a book. This one they are and I really love gargoyles now. They have always fascinated me and I now I know more about them. I cannot wait to get back into their world and live through their lives.
Super story Christopher. Looking forward to the next book!
Thank you!!!!
November 1, 2010
This is nothing like anything I've read before and I extremely enjoy it! I won a copy of the e-book and unsure of what to expect, as soon as I started I had a hard time stopping. Easily read the book in two sittings. It is a very unique story of a girl named Stefani, who has survived a tragic life only to be thrown into something completely unreal, taking you on an exciting, action packed adventure. I am definitely interested in seeing what lies ahead for Stefani in the next chapter of her life.
This is something I would definitely recommend to anyone bored with their typical genre and looking for something new, fun and exciting!
This is something I would definitely recommend to anyone bored with their typical genre and looking for something new, fun and exciting!
November 15, 2010
Stefani saw her mother brutally murdered when she was only ten years old. After being sent to live with a foster family, they were killed in a drive-by shooting that has never been solved. Stefani has spent her life training to someday kill the man responsible for destroying her life. Now just a week shy of her twenty-first birthday Dennis has fallen into her life as a protector. After hearing his story, Stefani concludes he’s crazy and leaves him behind. Stefani soon learns, however that the story Dennis related may not be so strange after all.
After suffering two attempts on her life Stefani really listens to Dennis’ tale. He is a gargoyle and gargoyles have been around at least as long as humans. There are two rival clans that have been at war for thousands of years. There is a legend that tells of a Chosen One who will inherit more power than any gargoyle has ever had. The Chosen One will either unite the gargoyles or destroy them all. Dennis and his brother Greg have been at odds for years because Greg left his family and made a deal with their rivals. Greg is also looking for the Chosen One and they both believe Stefani is the key. Stefani was given something by her mother to protect and that something may be a ring that is the source of this great power that the gargoyles are seeking.
While trying to stay alive until her birthday, Stefani encounters Greg, as well as a young police officer named Matt who wants to help her find the answers she is seeking. Through England, Italy and Mexico Stefani becomes even more confused than ever before. Along the way Stefani finds herself waking up repeatedly in a mental hospital and being pumped full of medication. Was it all just the imagination of a traumatized young woman? Are the people helping her really gargoyles or is Stefani merely unstable?
Christopher C. Payne has penned a very good and original story. He gives an excellent back story and character development is well-done. As it is only the first part of a longer story to come, we are given enough to make The Gargoyle Prophecies an enjoyable read but leaves us anticipating more. While I had an issue with the main character “passing out” at various times—too many times—I can see where it may have been a tool to advance certain aspects of the story. Overall I enjoyed the book and look forward to the next installment.
After suffering two attempts on her life Stefani really listens to Dennis’ tale. He is a gargoyle and gargoyles have been around at least as long as humans. There are two rival clans that have been at war for thousands of years. There is a legend that tells of a Chosen One who will inherit more power than any gargoyle has ever had. The Chosen One will either unite the gargoyles or destroy them all. Dennis and his brother Greg have been at odds for years because Greg left his family and made a deal with their rivals. Greg is also looking for the Chosen One and they both believe Stefani is the key. Stefani was given something by her mother to protect and that something may be a ring that is the source of this great power that the gargoyles are seeking.
While trying to stay alive until her birthday, Stefani encounters Greg, as well as a young police officer named Matt who wants to help her find the answers she is seeking. Through England, Italy and Mexico Stefani becomes even more confused than ever before. Along the way Stefani finds herself waking up repeatedly in a mental hospital and being pumped full of medication. Was it all just the imagination of a traumatized young woman? Are the people helping her really gargoyles or is Stefani merely unstable?
Christopher C. Payne has penned a very good and original story. He gives an excellent back story and character development is well-done. As it is only the first part of a longer story to come, we are given enough to make The Gargoyle Prophecies an enjoyable read but leaves us anticipating more. While I had an issue with the main character “passing out” at various times—too many times—I can see where it may have been a tool to advance certain aspects of the story. Overall I enjoyed the book and look forward to the next installment.
February 3, 2011
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway... Thanks Chris for the signed copy!!!
***This review contains spoilers!!!***
Overall, I really liked the book. It was fast-paced and kept me wanting to know what was going to happen next (I completed it within 2 days). Although frustrating, I love how you were never really sure if Stefani was dreaming or if everything was really happening. I also especially loved how the book ended exactly the same (as if she were dreaming or hallucinating). The story was great. I loved how her history of abuse was intertwined with the "fantasy" side of the story.
One thing I wasn't too fond of was that it seemed Stefani's character could be rather superficial at times. I don't know how else to describe it except I could tell it was not written by a woman ;-). I like to think that most women are deeper than Stefani seemed most of the time. We aren't really likely to run off holding hands with every guy who saves our lives (and it seemed she did a pretty good job of saving herself anyway--which I appreciated!)...spilling our guts about all our problems and our life's story. After the first guy or two betrayed us, you can be sure we would not be nearly as trusting regardless of the situation.
Seeing how the story progressed, it was easy to overlook this minor flaw and enjoy the read overall. It was written very well, and I am curious about the author's other work!!
***This review contains spoilers!!!***
Overall, I really liked the book. It was fast-paced and kept me wanting to know what was going to happen next (I completed it within 2 days). Although frustrating, I love how you were never really sure if Stefani was dreaming or if everything was really happening. I also especially loved how the book ended exactly the same (as if she were dreaming or hallucinating). The story was great. I loved how her history of abuse was intertwined with the "fantasy" side of the story.
One thing I wasn't too fond of was that it seemed Stefani's character could be rather superficial at times. I don't know how else to describe it except I could tell it was not written by a woman ;-). I like to think that most women are deeper than Stefani seemed most of the time. We aren't really likely to run off holding hands with every guy who saves our lives (and it seemed she did a pretty good job of saving herself anyway--which I appreciated!)...spilling our guts about all our problems and our life's story. After the first guy or two betrayed us, you can be sure we would not be nearly as trusting regardless of the situation.
Seeing how the story progressed, it was easy to overlook this minor flaw and enjoy the read overall. It was written very well, and I am curious about the author's other work!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 9, 2010
With a tattered Raggedy Ann doll as her only companion, Stefani has spent her entire life immersed in self isolation. As a 10-year-old child she was the lone witness to her mother’s murder. She has vowed to find the man who robbed her of all she held dear in the world, and ensure he suffers as she has, before he takes his final breath.
Her childhood is consumed with training in hopes of one day finding the scarred-face killer. But her world up-ends as her 21st birthday looms, when she discovers she isn’t the hunter. She is the one being hunted, and her predators are not human. Stefani finally opens herself up, allowing Dennis into her life, revealing herself for the first to her hopeful protector. But her fear and confusion mount when he reveals he is a gargoyle – and she is as well.
Dennis claims Stefani is the key to the future of the gargoyle world. She is the Chosen One, and she is in danger. Dark forces covet her imminent power and will use any means to steal it. Stefani’s mind swims with peril she neither understands nor is sure she believes in. She questions everything, including her grip on reality.
As Stefani battles the damned across the globe, she searches for answers about her identity. Is she truly the savior of an inhuman race or has her solitude and the trauma of her mother’s death finally infected her sanity?
Her childhood is consumed with training in hopes of one day finding the scarred-face killer. But her world up-ends as her 21st birthday looms, when she discovers she isn’t the hunter. She is the one being hunted, and her predators are not human. Stefani finally opens herself up, allowing Dennis into her life, revealing herself for the first to her hopeful protector. But her fear and confusion mount when he reveals he is a gargoyle – and she is as well.
Dennis claims Stefani is the key to the future of the gargoyle world. She is the Chosen One, and she is in danger. Dark forces covet her imminent power and will use any means to steal it. Stefani’s mind swims with peril she neither understands nor is sure she believes in. She questions everything, including her grip on reality.
As Stefani battles the damned across the globe, she searches for answers about her identity. Is she truly the savior of an inhuman race or has her solitude and the trauma of her mother’s death finally infected her sanity?
October 27, 2010
I have read all three of Christopher C. Payne's novels. They range from fair to excellent and each one is totally different from the others. Part I of The Gargoyle Prophecies fit in the middle with a rating of good to very good. It is a fantasy tale but of a very unusual quality. In fact, I was not always sure if this was a fantasy novel. At first, mainly due to the cover art, I thought it might be YA but the extensive gore and violence placed that out of my mind quickly. Without giving any spoilers, the basic goal of the reader is to determine whether we are in an alternative world involving clans of gargoyles or are we in the mind of a very troubled girl. It is not really clear, which is one of the author's strength in keeping us guessing, even at the end. Yet the author has created a different and imaginative take on the gargoyle mythology. Over all, I found it entertaining and it kept me on my toes as I tried to figure out the little twists and turns. I felt the ambiguity of the story was successful to a certain point and there are some nice surprises and action sequences but if the author chooses to write a part II the reader will need to be grounded at where this saga is going; fantasy or psychological novel?
P.S. Originally rated this at three and a half star but I kept thinking about it. Deserves more like four stars due to its originality so I changed it.
P.S. Originally rated this at three and a half star but I kept thinking about it. Deserves more like four stars due to its originality so I changed it.
November 5, 2010
I won this book as an Ebook from a goodreads contest.
This book is a bit of a head scratcher at times and pretty confusing yet it still draws you right in.
The only concrete fact is that the main character's name is Stefani Hernandez and that she owns a Raggedy Ann doll. She is what you would call an unreliable narrator. The plot goes in many different directions, just when you think you know what's going on a kind of Groundhog's Day movie type scenario starts to happen. Soon even Stefani is not sure what is going on.
She may or may not be turning into a gargoyle on her 21st birthday. Many different people try to help her along the way but they usually end up dead. The characters are very easy to visualize but the only character that's get any depth is Stefani.
I don't really like the whole is this or is this not happening type of stories but I found myself engrossed with this story waiting to see what happened next. Also the line, "Drew Carey is on The Price is Right, honey, and you love Drew Carey.”, has never sounded so creepy.
Frustrating but fun I really want to see where this story is going next.
This book is a bit of a head scratcher at times and pretty confusing yet it still draws you right in.
The only concrete fact is that the main character's name is Stefani Hernandez and that she owns a Raggedy Ann doll. She is what you would call an unreliable narrator. The plot goes in many different directions, just when you think you know what's going on a kind of Groundhog's Day movie type scenario starts to happen. Soon even Stefani is not sure what is going on.
She may or may not be turning into a gargoyle on her 21st birthday. Many different people try to help her along the way but they usually end up dead. The characters are very easy to visualize but the only character that's get any depth is Stefani.
I don't really like the whole is this or is this not happening type of stories but I found myself engrossed with this story waiting to see what happened next. Also the line, "Drew Carey is on The Price is Right, honey, and you love Drew Carey.”, has never sounded so creepy.
Frustrating but fun I really want to see where this story is going next.
November 26, 2010
I havent read a book which featured gargolyes before so its always refeashing to read something new.
I'm a real softy at heart and the first thing i loved is that this book is dedicated to his daughters, its nothing to do with the story but it made me like the author before i'd even started reading.
I'd have to say the book itself is probably more of a mans book, it has plenty action and plenty gore but for me lacking in a little romance. This will appeal to lots of people im sure and it certainly does not reflect on the quality of the book, just my own personal oppinion, im a sucker for romance.
You find yourself feeling so sorry for the heroine because everyone is out to kill her, everyone! or so it seems.
I would have given this book an extra half a point but they dont let you do that so ive ive given it a three.
This is based on the fact that i do usually read more romantic books. This book will definatly appeal to those who don't like the gushy love stuff, it's hard core action.
I enjoyed all the new ideas christopher portraits in this book and his writing styles flows and is easy to follow.
I'm a real softy at heart and the first thing i loved is that this book is dedicated to his daughters, its nothing to do with the story but it made me like the author before i'd even started reading.
I'd have to say the book itself is probably more of a mans book, it has plenty action and plenty gore but for me lacking in a little romance. This will appeal to lots of people im sure and it certainly does not reflect on the quality of the book, just my own personal oppinion, im a sucker for romance.
You find yourself feeling so sorry for the heroine because everyone is out to kill her, everyone! or so it seems.
I would have given this book an extra half a point but they dont let you do that so ive ive given it a three.
This is based on the fact that i do usually read more romantic books. This book will definatly appeal to those who don't like the gushy love stuff, it's hard core action.
I enjoyed all the new ideas christopher portraits in this book and his writing styles flows and is easy to follow.
October 22, 2010
I’m a mom of two kids under age 4, so it takes a lot these days for anything other than their antics to hold my attention for longer than a few minutes. This book was one I virtually couldn’t put down. The plot is hard-charging, going a mile a minute, and the twists keep you guessing from one page to the next about what is coming. You find yourself being tossed back and forth between two possible realities, and you can’t help but wonder which one is real for the main character Stefani. Is she really becoming an inhuman creature or is she delusional? Either way, something bizarre and interesting is happening in her life. For me, the confusion in Stefani’s world was intriguing because she seemed like a lost soul with a good heart. She was trying to be strong, but everyone seemed to want to prevent her from using that strength. The ending is poignant and well worth the mental energy you expend trying to keep up with all the plot changes. If you’re looking for a book that will be an instant page-turner, this will definitely satisfy your desire.
November 1, 2010
Without a doubt one of my favorite books I have read this year! I read the whole thing within 2 hrs. I just couldn’t stop!!
Amazing storytelling with twists and turns that left me reeling. What was truth, what was a lie? Everything told and retold until I couldn’t tell what reality was. The story is superbly told and wrapped and twisted around until you are not sure which way is up and what is good or bad. LOVED every minute of reading this story!!!
The characters are rich and full and the descriptions were right on. The blend of innocence and kick but action in our heroine was a masterful touch. You can’t help but identify and sympathize with her. The other characters were told so well, you couldn’t help but have a connection with them. Even when you aren’t sure who is good or bad. The lines blurred and switched and then switched again so many times.
Truly one of the best books, I highly recommend to anyone who wants to be entertained.
Can hardly wait for the next part, I have to know what is going on desperatley!!!!
Amazing storytelling with twists and turns that left me reeling. What was truth, what was a lie? Everything told and retold until I couldn’t tell what reality was. The story is superbly told and wrapped and twisted around until you are not sure which way is up and what is good or bad. LOVED every minute of reading this story!!!
The characters are rich and full and the descriptions were right on. The blend of innocence and kick but action in our heroine was a masterful touch. You can’t help but identify and sympathize with her. The other characters were told so well, you couldn’t help but have a connection with them. Even when you aren’t sure who is good or bad. The lines blurred and switched and then switched again so many times.
Truly one of the best books, I highly recommend to anyone who wants to be entertained.
Can hardly wait for the next part, I have to know what is going on desperatley!!!!
November 6, 2010
An interesting plot, but it got me confused quite a bit. First I thought it was a Fantasy-story set in the Gargoyle universe. Then it turns into a deja-vu-relive your crap-day again and again (the author himself makes a reference to Groundhog Day!), then again it turns into a psycho-terror-thriller in an asylum, then it is about child abuse, and then it is the Fantasy-story again? and I'm still not sure what the main line really is.
I couldn't find any character I really like, which is a downside for me - I like to have someone to identify with.
Then I found it a bit far-fetched to say that all fantasy-races are really Gargoyles - doesn't fit in my concept of Fantasy-worlds.
And: why do so many authors (especially from the US) seem to HAVE to put a Hitler or Nazi reference in their books? And here it is so far of no consequence for the story.
Nice and fast read, but no keeper for me, I think.
I couldn't find any character I really like, which is a downside for me - I like to have someone to identify with.
Then I found it a bit far-fetched to say that all fantasy-races are really Gargoyles - doesn't fit in my concept of Fantasy-worlds.
And: why do so many authors (especially from the US) seem to HAVE to put a Hitler or Nazi reference in their books? And here it is so far of no consequence for the story.
Nice and fast read, but no keeper for me, I think.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 31, 2010
There's more to life (and books, for that matter) than vampires. Granted, the premise of the book might (with an awful lot of good will) have worked with the creatures of the night as well, but it wouldn't have been the same. Let's just say that I appreciate the introduction to a species unbeknown to me, not only because I am sick of the ever present vampires in fantasy books, but because they were introduced to me in such a fresh and well written manner.
Christopher Payne takes the reader on a fast-paced ride through the life of the main character Stefani. A fantasy story with believable and well developed characters, written in a fluent style, and suspension building up through twists and turns up to the surprising end. To me it was a truly engaging read and I can't wait for book number two!
In short: Forget about vampires, gargoyles are way more awesome! Fantasy fans should absolutely read it!
Christopher Payne takes the reader on a fast-paced ride through the life of the main character Stefani. A fantasy story with believable and well developed characters, written in a fluent style, and suspension building up through twists and turns up to the surprising end. To me it was a truly engaging read and I can't wait for book number two!
In short: Forget about vampires, gargoyles are way more awesome! Fantasy fans should absolutely read it!
January 12, 2011
I'm trying to decide exactly how to review this book. It was written extremely well. The story was not dull, and it was not difficult to read. It is a book that young adults and adults can read for an interesting, complex story and not struggle through tedious wording.
The book left me scratching my head in several places. I thought I had it figured out, then suddenly, I didn't. This happened more times than I care to admit. I usually do not get thrown off the scent so many times, especially in a book so short! The plot is very well written. Our heroine is not exactly lovable, but you desperately want to know what is going to happen with her next.
I hope the story becomes longer as the series progresses, I was left feeling like a few hundred pages were missing. It did the job it was intended to do in 219 pages on e-book, but I felt like I was missing a few things in many of the characters and some of the scenes.
The book left me scratching my head in several places. I thought I had it figured out, then suddenly, I didn't. This happened more times than I care to admit. I usually do not get thrown off the scent so many times, especially in a book so short! The plot is very well written. Our heroine is not exactly lovable, but you desperately want to know what is going to happen with her next.
I hope the story becomes longer as the series progresses, I was left feeling like a few hundred pages were missing. It did the job it was intended to do in 219 pages on e-book, but I felt like I was missing a few things in many of the characters and some of the scenes.
November 4, 2010
This was an excellent book, and an enjoyable read. Don't let the rather lengthy
title fool you, the actual prose is very well crafted, and flows easily. The only
real drawback was that it was a rather short book. It is the first in a series of
books, and it is a positive thing when the only real negative aspect is that
the story ends.
It is easy to relate to the protagonist, the villains are nice and despicable,
the way they should be, and there are enough subtle twists to keep you engaged
without having to resort to a flowchart to keep track of who did what when.
I would readily recommend this book to anyone looking for a quick and enjoyable
weekend read. The fantasy elements are present, but not overwhelming, and the focus
remains solely on the protagonist.
I received this book as part of the Goodread's First reads program.
title fool you, the actual prose is very well crafted, and flows easily. The only
real drawback was that it was a rather short book. It is the first in a series of
books, and it is a positive thing when the only real negative aspect is that
the story ends.
It is easy to relate to the protagonist, the villains are nice and despicable,
the way they should be, and there are enough subtle twists to keep you engaged
without having to resort to a flowchart to keep track of who did what when.
I would readily recommend this book to anyone looking for a quick and enjoyable
weekend read. The fantasy elements are present, but not overwhelming, and the focus
remains solely on the protagonist.
I received this book as part of the Goodread's First reads program.
November 3, 2010
I just finished reading this book, I don't want to spoil it too much, but I do want to say I liked Stefani's decision (at the end), as well as the twists that let to her decision. I definitely questioned what was real and what wasn't and I really enjoyed the fantasy of the gargoyles (and roguls). It was packed with action and it was fast paced, which I enjoyed. I also liked the visual descriptions and her travels (always full of surprise). On a side note, I have never walked into a bar and then suddenly discovered it was actually a stripclub; but I think that might be a touch to intrigue the male readers. lol. I'm not sure if the sequels have already been written but I'd love to see Greg go through what Stefani has, I think revenge is well deserved, and after all the tribulation she went through, her soul needs to be put at rest.
November 15, 2010
Christopher Payne’s first novel, The Gargoyle Prophecies, is a sure fire winner, a five star blast that assuredly marks this new author as a person to watch for. Christopher not only makes his characters come to life, he put the reader right into the mix. I could not put this novel down and am hoping that the next installment comes out soon.
From page one the reader is slammed into the mixed up world of Stefani Hernandez. You follow this young lady as the world that she thinks she has known is flipped upside down, and the world that could only exist in your imagination comes to life.
This novel is a must read for every fan of horror, fantasy and science fiction. Christopher crosses all three aspects and does it very well.
Shawn Weaver – Co-Author Ripper’s Row
From page one the reader is slammed into the mixed up world of Stefani Hernandez. You follow this young lady as the world that she thinks she has known is flipped upside down, and the world that could only exist in your imagination comes to life.
This novel is a must read for every fan of horror, fantasy and science fiction. Christopher crosses all three aspects and does it very well.
Shawn Weaver – Co-Author Ripper’s Row
November 11, 2010
This book was amazing. I loved how realistic Stefani was in the beginning. I could believe the confusion and state of mind she was in. It was pretty cool. It got a little confusing the way it would switch back to what was going on in the beginning, so you really had to pay attention to understand what was going on. The major twist in the last part of the book, made me stop in my tracks. I was like "what just happened?" It's been awhile since would recommend it to anyone who wants to read a book that provides a little bit of a challenge.
March 10, 2016
First Reads Win
10 year old Stefani was the lone witness to her mother's murder. Eleven years later, the murderer comes back into her life and things get crazy.
This book takes off around page fifty and becomes very hard to put down. The usage of Gargoyles rather than the heavily used vampires, werewolves or zombies was an interesting change. I'm very much looking forward for Part II.
10 year old Stefani was the lone witness to her mother's murder. Eleven years later, the murderer comes back into her life and things get crazy.
This book takes off around page fifty and becomes very hard to put down. The usage of Gargoyles rather than the heavily used vampires, werewolves or zombies was an interesting change. I'm very much looking forward for Part II.
October 28, 2010
Move over vampires,goblins,and lycans there's a new creature in town and it's known as the gargoyle. This book was awesome! I loved it so much I finished it in a day! It starts of at such a fast pace, and doesn't stop. I loved how every page was filled with action and adventure. You totally don't know what way to turn, or what is going to happen next. I can tell you now you will not regret reading this. From the minute you turn that last page you will be screaming for more.
November 10, 2010
What a great story!! “The Gargoyle Prophecies - The Savior Rises” captured my attention from start to finish. Christopher C. Payne’s story of Stefani and her bid to reach her 21st birthday is well written, fast paced and full of conflict and chaos.
I couldn’t put it down!!! I only have one question - when does the sequel come out?
Received for free to review. I am a member of Goodreads, Librarything, BookDivas and the Penguin book club.
I couldn’t put it down!!! I only have one question - when does the sequel come out?
Received for free to review. I am a member of Goodreads, Librarything, BookDivas and the Penguin book club.
December 4, 2010
Fantastic story, a must read. Received this book from the author and once I picked it up, I couldn't put it down. The fast paced adventure with several surprises along the way is excellently written as Mr Payne style of writing keeps you engrossed and actively involved. As I finished the book, I so wanted to have the next book in hand so I could continue with Stephani's adventure and so wanting to find out if Greg gets what he deserves. This book goes on my highly recommmended list.
November 4, 2010
I won this book as a part of the Goodreads giveaways and was pleasantly surprised. It was refreshingly different than other books of this genre. It was fun to read about gargoyles instead of vampires again. This book keeps you guessing until the end with some amazing plot twists. I can't wait to see what this author will do next.
September 21, 2010
This was a fun and twisted ride with lots of action and confusion to keep the reader guessing. Another Goodreads author gets my thumbs up.
October 22, 2010
This book surprised me in every chapter. I did not know what to expect and I highly recommend this book for anyone looking for a "ride" through a book. Looking forward to the next one!
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