It Happened One Doomsday

May 9, 2016
The first entry in MacNaughton’s (Conspiracy of Angels) new urban fantasy series features sorcery, magic, nearly indestructible classic cars, and characters who run the gamut from faintly noir to slightly horrific. When a man named Greyson finds his way to Dru Jasper’s crystal shop in present-day Colorado looking for some last-ditch help with his nightmares, investigating the cause of those bad dreams leads Dru and her friends Opal and Rane into a race to stop the book’s villains from using a magical scroll to bring forth the apocalypse. Dru is trapped between needing Greyson’s help to stop it and keeping him away for fear that he’ll fulfill the prophecy of doom. The quest to save the world is tinged with romance and takes some predictable turns along with the odd unexpected twist. The story relies heavily on fast-paced car chases and adventure. MacNaughton has created a strong foundation for a fascinating series where anything is possible and everything has a cost. Agent: Kristin Nelson, Nelson Literary.

July 1, 2016

Dru Jasper knows that magic is real. Her shop, the Crystal Connection, allows her to scrape by selling artifacts, crystals, and other enchanting items. But times are tough, and she worries that she could lose the business if she doesn't get more sales. Then in walks Greyson. He's tall, dark, handsome--and owns a possessed car and is turning into a demon prophesied to end the world in six days. Strangely, Dru's own minor crystal abilities seem to flare with him around. Searching for a cure for Greyson, Dru discovers the work of seven sorcerers called the Harbingers. They, along with the Apocalypse Scroll, show that a new, supernatural beginning will end all humankind. It seems extremely unlikely that Dru has the power to stop the approaching doomsday and free Greyson from his curse, but she's going to give it her best shot anyway. MacNaughton (The Spider Thief) blends a good bit of humor, intriguing secondary characters, and a pinch of romance, yet the doomsday plot isn't overshadowed by these elements. VERDICT This engaging urban fantasy will have readers anticipating the next book in the series.--KC

Copyright 2016 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.