Stone Romance

Stone Passions #2

by A.C. Warneke

Book 2 in the Stone Passions trilogy

Once upon a cold winter’s night a magnificent man enters Jenna Jacob’s life and with a kiss nothing will ever be the same again….

For almost seven years, Jenna had been sleepwalking through life, going through the motions and trying to be the best mother she could be to her precocious daughter. But she’s ready to start living again, hoping to test the water with someone safe. But the Fates, and her sister, have other plans and she is introduced to the marvelous Rhys Nosuntres, a man with a ready smile and pure erotic magnetism that draws Jenna in despite her wariness. Even when complications arise to keep them apart it is hard to stay away from one another no matter how hard they try.

Events in the form of the mysterious Omari conspire to bring them together, sending Rhys and Jenna on a journey of discovery. What Jenna discovers changes everything: Rhys is a Gargoyle, he is a Guardian between the two worlds, charming and generous and he is an inventive lover. Jenna can’t help but fall in love with him.

But the Fates can also be cruel, giving Jenna everything she thought she wanted just when she discovered everything she needed.

Stone Romance is a full length paranormal romance that teeters on the verge of being erotica, which some may find offensive; there is strong language, the scenes are spicy and the sex is explicit. Stone Romance contains: M/F. light bondage, and a scene between Jenna and Rhys in his gargoyle form that is a little out there.

Genres: Paranormal, Romance, Erotica, Paranormal Romance, Mythology, Magic, Fantasy

296 pages, Paperback

First published September 20, 2012

About the author

Like most writers, I spend most of my time telling myself stories and occasionally writing them down when they get too loud to remain in my head. The characters are also very demanding, wanting to go out into the world to be discovered by millions of adoring readers, though they are most satisfied with having only a few readers that truly love them. From the gargoyles that sit on top of the roofs to the Siren who lures her wolf astray to the Aradians and Apocritae to those who battle evil, the characters are everything.

Instead of going through the traditional gatekeepers of the publishing world I have leapt over the walls with the help of digital catapults (kindle direct, smashwords, and createspace) and messenger e-birds (goodreads, facebook, twitter, RNC, etc), going directly to the public. It has been a year and while my strong hold is small it grows larger every day as I connect with other rebels throughout the lands and the readers who support our work. It is a glorious day to be a writer.

When it comes to the actual writing I have discovered that every single one of my books likes to be created in a different way, which makes establishing an environment that is most conducive to my writing is not likely, though it occasionally involves chocolate covered raisins, music, minesweeper, occasionally Mahjong, lots of solitaire, notebooks and scraps of paper, doodling and day dreaming, and fruity, sugar-free bubble gum, not necessarily in that order and not always at the same time.

Of course, none of this would be possible without the love and support of my very loving and very tolerant family: my husband who encourages me to keep writing even when I act a little insane in regards to the worlds in my head, and my three kids who help out so much when I get lost in those same, darn worlds. They politely listen as I go on and on about my characters' motivations and back stories, their connections within the worlds created and how they fight to gain control of their destinies. But I am a cruel writer and make them earn their happy endings.

Since I am also a Romantic at heart, they are all happy endings.

Available books:

Darkness Comes (February 2012 – PNR)
Blight (March 2012 – UF)
Stone Lover (March 2012 – PNR, romantica)
Siren Song (May 2012 – PNR)
Stone Romance (September 2012 – PNR, romantica)
Blind Attraction (Jan. 31, 2013 – Contemporary)

Coming soon-ish:

Awakening (PNR/UF)
Stone Destiny (PNR)
After Blight (UF)
Darkness Comes book 2 (PNR – title to be determined)

http://www.amazon.com/author/awarneke
http://www.facebook.com/ACWarneke
http://acwarneke.wordpress.com

Reviews

[Xavier Neal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read if...you enjoyed the first book, PNR, hot sex, self discovery, and an HEA.

Side Note: The first book was definitely a great way to kick off this series, but THIS BOOK, this book has the information I felt the first book was lacking, which is probably what helped kick it up to the five stars I gave it. This book was also better written. Had more depth at times, though it felt a little long winded at others. The characters however pumped with more passion. Their love was solid and built a bond that was in deed unbreakable. It was BEAUTIFUL. And the sex, holy mother of goodness, totally trumped almost all the sex in the first book. All in all this is an incredible series, so incredible in fact that as soon as I ended book 2, I started book 3. We're talking like pausing just long enough to get a drink of water kinda starting. Lol. I've never been a huge fan of PNR (JR Ward aside) but this author has written a world I keep wanting to read. I look forward to book 3 and checking out the other books she (assuming it's a she) has out.

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another entertaining gargoyle story. I love the uniqueness of the story, a difference from the usual fare of vampires and werewolves, but at the same time the story progression was very unique as well. I thought that the storyline could have used a little more fleshing out - we still don't really see the gargoyles doing anything to protect the innocents. They seem to do a lot of carousing and impotent cursing of the imp's existence. That being said, they are still incredibly sexy and it was really a lot of fun to learn more about the gargoyles themselves in this book. There was a mix of ancient mythology and brand new ideas in this book that helped the reader to understand where they came from but at the same time realize the author had created a totally new progression of events.

I liked how Rhys' stone form related to his personality but at the same time he wasn't completely vain, laughing and annoying. He was a fun, loving guy but had enough depth to make him a completely lovable character. Jenna I found I did not connect with as well. I found her a little selfish - it seemed like everything that happened was all about her feeling better about herself. Rhys brought a lot to their relationship so it felt a little one-sided though not in terms of love.

Overall, I found this was a great read and look forward to more.

[Cindy · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I originally read the book blurb for this book, I somehow read it as Jenna going into a deep sleep, so while reading this book I kept wondering when she would do her Snow White impersonation. Well I read that blurb too fast.

I loved how this story was different than the first. It’s not a retelling of the same romance with new characters, but we really get to see something new and different in Jenna and Rhys love story. We’ve already been introduced to them and know it’s only a matter of time before they get together, but their journey is so different – full of new characters in A.C. Warneke’s world. And she’s opened up this world and given us so many more characters to care and wonder about.

While I know that the next story is Armand’s story and I’m excited to see if we see beyond this gargoyle group’s world and see the other brothers. Here’s hoping!

[Catherine · Rating 3 out of 5]

Another appealing book from A.C. Warneke. I won a copy of this book and the author was gracious enough to also provide me with the first book in this series ‘Stone Lover’. Thank you again Ms. Warneke.
This book is the second of what I assume will become a series, since there are three gargoyle brothers. Lots of fun with gargoyles and their lovers. Ms. Warneke also has an intriguing take on some of the Greek mythologies we are all so familiar with.
Overall the book was interesting and fun, but the author still needs to do some serious editing. Additionally, I found the characters to be somewhat superficial and the storyline a little thin.
Nonetheless, I quite like the style of this author and am looking forward to her next book in this series.

[Lynz · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you tired of reading about vampires and werewolves but you're not ready to throw PR out of the mix then you should read this book. I can't say that I've every fantasized about finding a gargoyle but they have quickly become one of my favorite PR creatures. Not only do they do they have rock hard bods but they can give you immortality as long as you don’t mind a rock hard bod yourself. This book had tons of emotions (good and bad), lots of yummy sex, and a great story that kept me wanting to read more. Looking forward to reading more by this author!!! Happy Reading!

[Tifferz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Like I said I love Rhys! he's everything I would want in a gargoyle but when I read about Armand, yea my brain short circuits haha. i am so glad the Jenna has finally opened up and accepted the awesomeness that is Rhys. I just hate that once she's back in the "real" world that she let's the depression back in. and how she can be wavering so much in her decision. I respect the hell out of her though, with asking to keep the memories of a path she didn't choose. I don't think I could have handled that. So glad that these to had a chance! Armand, I will be seeing seeing you shortly. ;)

[~ Lei ~ Reading Is An Adventure ~ · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5
My first gargoyle story and I enjoyed it. It was actually pretty long and started to rush through to the end. The world building was imaginative and the characters were interesting. Jenna was attracted to Rhys while he was a gargoyle and when she met him in person, it was instant attraction although both had baggage - he was after all a gargoyle and she was a young single mom with a 6-year old daughter who had finally come back to life after her fiance died prior to the wedding.

[Heather Monroe · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a paranormal romance that meets 50 Shades of Grey. This book was a great change of pace as it focused on gargoyles and interweaves magic, the Gods, and Medusa. I read Stone Lover prior and enjoyed how it took Jenna’s point of view. I expected the novel to continue from the first and learn more about Melanie. However, I like where A.C. Warneke took the story. I definitely recommend this series.

[Hbeebti · Rating 4 out of 5]

I did not read book one (but I want to now). With that said I was not lost but I was seriously curious about Megan and Vaughn. Their story continued in this book. I thought that Jenna was a little annoying but she did get better by the end. Rhys was a great character and I fell for all the brothers. I love Gargoyles and this one was really great. I loved learning about Rhys family. Where they came from, who his parents are. That was a wonderful shock. Looking forward to the rest of the series.

[Tracey Murphy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another enjoyable read from AC about stone men, but definitely not stone aged men! I read Stone Lover and enjoyed Melanie's story and I loved how this was different with Jenna and Rhys personalities and needs.

I enjoyed the twist on the Greek Mythology and Medusa's story. I liked that Jenna made a thought out decision on her situation. I am looking forward to the next book.

[Celestine]

DNF at 60%.

[Cozen · Rating 2 out of 5]

Six times in the last two hours I’ve put down than attempted to pick up and read. These love interest is not a very good one. I’ve to read pass it but it still feels very forced and not believable to me. What is worse is who I imagine that Warneke wants to pair up with Armand in the last book. If Armand and Ferris are matched, than this is garbage all the way around. Why couldn’t the writer simply write another unrelated female in this book? Jenna and Rhys just don’t feel at all right.

This was a trilogy I bought as one book for $4.99. If I had to rate it based on just these first two books, it would barely scrape by with 3 stars.

[Daisy Sloan · Rating 4 out of 5]

What If……you turned right instead of left….
What If……you stayed home instead of going out….
What If……you said no instead of yes…..

How different would your life be? Would it be better? Worse? Or just…..different?

These are questions we’ll never know the answers to. They’re games we shouldn’t play. But What If…..you knew how different things would be if you had only…….

Jenna and Rhys are off on adventure. They’re supposed to be going to visit Rhys’s mother to get some of her blood in order save Vaughn and Melanie. But things are not always what they seem.

Jenna and Rhys are a dynamic couple. They’re awesome together. He brings out the best in Jenna and he’s helping her heal. She’s been sad for so long and not really living. Rhys has brought her back to life.

My only complaint about Rhys? He’s TOO perfect. Yep, you heard me…he’s too perfect!

I am loving A.C. Warneke’s Stone Passions series. It’s so full of life, color, heartache and gloriously hottie hotties! I still want a gargoyle of my own! LOL! Where can I get one?

I love the insight into Armand. Up until now I just thought he was a hardass, but now I see him as someone who needs a little love in his life. Someone to hold. Someone to love. I’m really excited about getting his story. The little snippet we got in the Epilogue has whetted my appetite! Bring on Armand!

One of the things I REALLY liked about this story was the way Warneke delved into Greek Mythology. The stories we were told are given more depth and new insight into those myths come to light. It makes the world Warneke has built that much richer. The amazing thing about all of this; it’s our world. The world we live in now. She didn’t create an alternate world or dimension. It’s all embedded into or world, using stories we read in school or watched on TV. I really like the way she took those stories and weaved them into this story.

Makes me wonder…..What If…….

[Nickcole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stars: 4.5

Overall: The story starts with Jenna finding out that she is pregnant and her boyfriend is on his way home from the military when he gets in an accident and dies. Over the next 5 years with the help from her sister Melanie, Jenna is able to sort of heal herself and gain back some normalcy. For a month Melanie eagerly talks about Vaughn's brother Rhys and how he is perfect for Jenna. The first night they meet, they hit it off immediately and Jenna is whisked off on a journey of self discovery and learning that she can love again. They fight to save Rhys's brother Vaughn and also meet the brother's mother. At one point Jenna also becomes immortal and after spending forty years Rhys is able to give his gift to Jenna. It's just one of those stories that you have to read for yourself to truly get how wonderful and creative the story is.

Pros: I really loved how this book was a continuation from the first book. I also loved how more aspects of the gargoyle life was explained, especially where they came from and who their parents were. I'm hoping that in future books, we get to meet more of their brothers. I really liked how Rhys and Jenna connected and even though she was showed a new reality, she was able to choose the right one. There was just so many good moments in this book that I couldn't put it down. I cannot wait to read Ferris and Aramand's story.

Cons: I personally didn't have any cons with this story.

Characters: Rhys & Jenna

Page Turner: Yes

Series Cont: Yes

Recommend: I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK AND SERIES!

[Chelsea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Again another great read. This book was a little different from the first because the start of the book happens during the the first book but in Jenna and Rhys point of view. It is a curious book. A majority of the major characters in the first are mute in this and when see more new characters. Jenna and Rhys take a trip to Greece to visit Rhys mom to bring back Vaughn at least that is what they are to believed in the first book but the end of the first book we know that is not to be true. I really liked this one better and I really liked the different take on Medusa. Everyone in mythology and today's time looks at Medusa as this evil character but what if that is not that case. This author takes that and changes it so that even in the book people believe this but it is not the case. There are more twists and turns and again you get to see more into the under lining of what the bigger story might be. I cannot wait to read the next one because Armand is a tricky one and he thinks he knows what is best but he doesn't.
I really also enjoyed the tests that Jenna had to endure in this book. It shows how strong she is and also shows how strong Rhys and Jenna bond is.

[Jess · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stone Romance is book 2 in the Stone Series and it really needs to be read after Stone Lover. That said, OMGoodness, Rhys and Jenna are so freaking hot and yet so tenderly sweet together. Rhys is one of the gargoyles guarding the humans and supernatural. He's stone by day and a man by night. When things go terribly wrong between Vaughn and Melanie, Jenna and Rhys are sent on a quest to find Medusa and bring back the cure necessary to bring Vaughn back to life. While away, Rhys and Jenna get to know each other and fall in love. Rhys' lightness and humor is the perfect balace to Jenna's darkness and fear. Once on Medusa's island, Jenna will have to make some choices that will potentionally alter the course of more than just her life.

Jenna is so hurt, heartbroken by death and loss. She's raising her daughter Ferris with the help of Melanie. Rhys is laughter and light. We also meet Omari, who has his own agenda in seeing the gargoyles meeting and falling in love with their mates. Omari is a wild card, creating havoc and protecting Melanie and Jenna. I can't wait to read more about him, to see what role he has left to play.

[BookAddict ✒ La Crimson Femme · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a sad one. I devoured it after I finished the first one. This one was pretty amazing to learn the mother and father of these gargoyles.

I liked this concept Ms. Warneke presents. A life changing event can have a much bigger ripple effect than one ever anticipates. The life of one child if left unborn would have caused such dramatic impact around all, it's a bit frightening. These what if scenarios are fabulous to play out and I'm pleased Ms. Warneke did justice to it.

It's best to read these books one after another because you just can't wait to find out what happens next.

[Suzanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Unfortunately I never had the chance to read the first story in this series...that being said I couldn't put this book down! So not the norm para-romance that I read, but I loved it! I have always been a fan of Greek mythology and I was happy to see several characters leap across the page. I appreciated the turmoil and journey that Vaughn, Melanie, Jenna,.and Rhys had to endure. I can't wait for the third installment! I'm hoping its Ferris and Armand! Or the long lost brother?? After I track down the first installment, of course...

[Anne · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is 3.5 Stars. I would have given it 4, but I thought the ending was rushed. That being said, I did really enjoy the story. Rhys and Jenna are so sweet together and it was nice to see Jenna having the chance to make an informed decision. There were several good twists and the interaction with Rhys' mom was very nicely done, especially the weaving in of the mythology. Loved it when she sent the young ones home with Rhys.
I am looking forward to reading the next installment....hoping maybe Armand will find some happiness...fingers crossed.

[Lauren Seiberling (Romance Novel Giveaways) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a fun series to read! I loved this book because it explains even more of the mystery surrounding the creatures that were introduced in the first book. It's obvious that A.C. Did a lot of research, and the spin she out on the myths is nothing short of fascinating.

The hotness factor was not lessened in this book compared to the first one. Jenna is very easy to relate to, and I am so happy with the ending. I'm also ECSTATIC to read the next book!!!

[Christina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Who is this author? I usually don't care for the 2nd book of a 3 part series, but OMG....I think I may have enjoyed this one as much if not MORE than the first. What a wonderful imagination this author has. I'm even beginning to think that imps, fairies and gargoyles are as real as they are in this series. Bravo A.C., bravo!!!!

[Amanda Harter · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love how the love in this one unfolded and trying not to give any thing away, I would have loved to hear more about Ferris growing up, but I know the book can't be a 100000 pages! Grabbed me and i did not want to put it down!!! love it!!!

[Laurel Wistrom · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great read from Ms Warneke. I cried as hard as I laughed in this story. Character development was so good and the tie in from book #1 Stone Lover and the hint for Book #3 Stone Destiny is so good. Another must read!!

[Marcie Oropeza · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was book 2 and I've not read bk 1; I hate to read out of order (not that that's an issue, here, necessarily). I enjoyed this immensely and will definitely read the entire series!

[Julianna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really liked this one, but i didn't enjoy it as much as the first and third one. Really good read though!

1st read - 9-17-14
2nd read - 5-26-20

[♡ Jeri's Book Attic ♡ Jeri the Romance Bibiliophile ♡ · Rating 4 out of 5]

[Djg · Rating 2 out of 5]

I just don't know what to think.

This story just seemed to meander for so long. The first third of it is basically a recap of Stone Lover except it's from Jenna's perspective.

It just felt very uneven and I still don't feel the author has revealed the world she's trying to build. I'm a bit baffled. The story doesn't unfold it just rambles. We'll see what happens in book 3.

[Debb · Rating 4 out of 5]

For anyone interested ,it's free on amazon today!

[Lindsay]

Amazon Freebie 10/31/2012