Stone Heart

The Gargoyles of Arrington #3

by Jenn Burke

Maybe his heart isn’t made of stone after all…

Centuries ago, Teague O’Reilly and his brothers were cursed to be gargoyles, and their only hope for freedom was to find their true loves. Teague knows he’ll be cursed forever—who would love someone who doesn’t want sex?

Chris Holt does. The bear shifter tricked Teague into binding their souls together in hopes of ending the Holt family curse. He didn’t realize how that jeopardized Teague’s chances to find true love, except… Chris is pretty sure he might be it. Him and Frankie.

Younger than the two other men, Frankie’s had a difficult life as an orphaned mountain lion shifter. He knows he belongs to both Teague and Chris, and Chris knows it too. But they’ll need to work a certain type of magic to convince the asexual gargoyle that there’s more to love than sex.

When the dark, fae-like creature who’s been tormenting them for months resurfaces with a new plan to subjugate them, Frankie will do anything to protect his men.

Anything.

Stone Heart features a male/male/male triad relationship between an oblivious asexual gargoyle, a gay himbo bear shifter, and a fierce gay mountain lion shifter. There’s also a cabin with only one bed, lots of self-discovery, and a huge found family. It’s the final book in the Gargoyles of Arrington series and has the hardest-won happily ever after, I promise.

Genres: Paranormal, M M Romance, Romance, Fantasy, Shapeshifters, Enemies To Lovers, M M M

228 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 23, 2023

About the author

Jenn Burke has loved out-of-this-world romance since she was a preteen reading about heroes and heroines kicking butt and falling in love. Now that she’s an author, she couldn’t be happier to bring adventure, romance, and sexy times to her readers.

Jenn is the author of a number of paranormal and science fiction romance titles, including the critically acclaimed Chaos Station science fiction romance series (authored with Kelly Jensen) and her newest series, Ashes & Dust, a spin-off of her fan-favorite Not Dead Yet series.

She’s been called a pocket-sized and puntastic Canadian on social media, and she’ll happily own that label. Jenn lives just outside of Ottawa, Ontario, with her husband and two kids, plus two dogs named after video game characters…because her geekiness knows no bounds.

Jenn is represented by Deidre Knight of the Knight Agency.

Reviews

[Megan [At The Cottage]]

MMM Romance
Asexual Gargoyle Love
No Rating

This is technically a DNF because I skimmed the majority of it then fell asleep and decided not to go back to it even though I’m at 90%.

This series has been an absolute bust for me but I was curious about this last one since Teague is an asexual gargoyle but unfortunately just like all the other books, the idea was better than the execution. While there was a few more sex scenes than previous books, they were incredibly lackluster and I couldn’t believe how ridiculous this ongoing plot line ended. Why couldn’t they do that from book one? Also, the relationship between the 3 was incredibly lacking and not because of the ace rep but because they were all one dimensional characters. Frankie and Chris had known they were mates for a month before telling Teague so they had been already hooking up and it made me feel like Teague was just an afterthought even though this book is supposed to be his love story. This series is definitely more action and story than sex and romance but to break the gargoyle’s curse they need to find true love so the way this was done just did not work for me in any book. They all bored me in different ways and I don’t think I’ll be reading this author in the future but I’m choosing not to rate this because I’m the problem, it’s me and I skimmed.

[Jenn]

Teague's book is available now! Happy reading!

[Cadiva · Rating 4 out of 5]

A nicely wrapped up final book from Jenn

I wasn't sure how this was going to work when there were so many obstacles in the way for Teague to get his HEA.

And, for a while, it looked like the eldest of the gargoyle shifter brothers might not manage to break his part of the curse.

No spoilers here, but I was mostly happy with how things ultimately played out.

All the necessary people got their just desserts, Chris, Frankie and Teague were able to find a way forward together that worked perfectly for them all and the future started to look like it had a brighter outcome.

I also liked how Teague's asexual nature was treated, it felt like an honest and believable approach to how he was intimate with his two mates.

I've very much enjoyed this series, it's been good to have shifters that weren't the usual.

[Marin · Rating 1 out of 5]

I have never yelled at a book in annoyance more

Ngl I really enjoyed the other books which is the only reason I didn’t dnf this one but oh my god I really hated this one.. the plot holes were bigger than a sink hole and Frankie was a fucking idiot the entire time. I felt zero chemistry between all three of them together.. even with T being ace it felt very Frankie and Chris separate and then T just meh there on the side sort of. Very disappointed all around in the story line and just ended up unfortunately being a massive no from me dog.

[The Word Nerd Reviews Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

The final book in a series is always bittersweet, but Stone Heart rounds up the series nicely and ties up the loose ends from the previous books.

I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of Stone Heart, but it wasn’t my favourite of the series. It was missing a bit of the passion of the previous two books. I’m not talking about physical heat, but that emotional connection between the MCs. I didn’t really feel it amongst the three, something was missing that prevented me from believing that they were fated mates. It wasn’t even that Teague was a gargoyle rather than a shifter, I didn’t feel it between Chris and Frankie (the shifters) either. At the end of the book, the author stated they had a hard time writing the story, and I think it’s evident. It’s a beautiful story, don’t get me wrong, but it’s missing that emotional punch that the previous two books had.

Despite the lack of chemistry though, Stone Heart had that strong found family vibe of the previous books, and it was about time the evil hag got her just desserts! I really wish there was a bit more of the brothers and their mates though. Although they were present in the story, they were very much sidelined. As a last book, it would have been nice for them all to be a bit more front and centre.

However, that last chapter! It had me in tears (in a good way), best ending to this series that I could imagine, it was simply beautiful!

I really enjoyed Stone Heart, the story kept me flipping the pages, I was just dying to see how they would finally deal with Muirloch, and there was even a little extra surprise with one of the other secondary characters.

I would not recommend reading Stone Heart as a standalone. This series builds from book to book and it’s best to start with the first book, Stone Wings.

I loved this series, and it will be a re-read. Overall, the Gargyoles of Arrington has been a hit, and while I’m sad to say goodbye to the boys, I love that they all got their happy ever afters!

[Joyfully Jay · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Joyfully Jay review.

4 stars

Stone Heart is the third book in the Gargoyles of Arrington series and closes out the trilogy. The books each feature one of the O’Reilly brothers, so there are new MCs in each story, but there are overarching series plot points that make reading these books in order beneficial. The romantic conflict here is set up at the end of Stone Skin, as Teague realizes that Chris deceived him and rather than conducting a pack ceremony, he was really binding his soul to Teague’s. And even worse, this puts Teague at risk of not being able to find his true love and break his own curse, as the connection to Chris would interfere. Author Jenn Burke sets things up well here in that we see how truly remorseful Chris is about what he has done. It is also clear that he had no idea what he set in motion in terms of the risks to Teague and was just trying to protect his family. So there is an early enemies-to-lovers vibe here as Teague and Chris are at odds, but Teague recognizes pretty early on that Chris’ actions were out of desperation and not malicious, so it doesn’t take too long for things to settle down.

Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.

[Colleen (colleenreads40) · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.75/5 ⭐

Stone Heart is the third and final book in Jenn Burke's The Gargoyles of Arrington series. You'll want to read this series in order due to world-building and overarching plot elements. Here's what you can expect from Teague, Chris, and Frankie:

🩶 MMM paranormal romance
🩶 First person triple point of view
🩶 Guaranteed happily ever after
🩶 Open door spice
🩶 Asexual representation
🩶 Gargoyle/bear shifter/mountain lion shifter
🩶 Cabin with only one bed
🩶 Self-discovery
🩶 Canadian setting

I was so excited to learn that Teague's book was not only going to be polyamorous, but there would also be asexual representation! I loved all the books in the series, but I think this one was my favourite. Like the others, it still had those cozy vibes (amplified because Chris, Teague, and Frankie head north to a cabin to hide away from the fae-like monster who continues to torment the brothers) but I loved the added exploration of their relationship dynamics. Teague could be so stubborn (as well as oblivious), and my heart hurt for him when he believed that due to his asexuality, he would never be able to break the curse like his brothers had.

Chris and Frankie were fun characters too. Chris definitely had the himbo vibes going on. I wasn't sure how to feel about him after the events of Stone Skin, but the complete adoration he had for Frankie and Teague more than redeemed him in my eyes. He was on a journey of self-discovery as he worked desperately to try to reconnect with his bear. Frankie was just so courageous, even if he didn't always make the best choices, he clearly did it out of love for Teague and Chris. I really appreciated how Jenn wrote both their polyamorous relationship and how Teague's asexuality played into that. It's representation I've never seen before, but it's very important.

We get a final resolution to the curses in this book, and I really liked how she ended the series. I'm definitely sad to see the brothers go, but I loved all of their stories and I think these could easily become comfort reads for me in the future. Don't sleep on this series, it's a great introduction to cozy paranormal romance and overall lovely reads.

[Shelby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a satisfying conclusion to this series. I finished the previous book and just had to jump into this one right away. I needed to see how Teague and Chris. Add in Frankie and this was just a great story. I liked the three of these guys together. I appreciated how Chris and Frankie felt about Teague being ace and how that was handled. Of course we had to deal with Mrs. Big Bad and she's determined to make Teague's life miserable. She is succeeding more than one would like as well.

I enjoyed this series as a whole and all of the characters. I felt for Teague as the cops he expected to have his back wavered more than he'd like when his character was called into question. This whole series was just a feel good for me and I really loved all of these guys.

[Josie · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5⭐️

This was fine; gets an extra star bc I’m happy Teague got his HEA but found the story rushed and unsatisfactory. Teague has been my favorite character since the beginning, and I’ve been looking forward to his book but maybe too much. Teague's book didn’t always feel like it was about Teague. Sure, he’s the center of the drama as he is targeted by Muirloch and targeted by his mates for Operation Love Us, but I couldn’t shake the feeling of him being a bit sidelined in his own story. There is just some connective tissue missing that makes it feel like Teague isn’t actually an active participant in the story, simply a coveted object to be won.

As a whole, what there is of the relationship bw Chris, Frankie and Teague works ok, but as individuals, there isn’t much development of the characters. The reader doesn't learn any more about Teague than what's given in the previous books, which is mostly ok as he has a distinct presence in those stories. All the reader learns about Chris is that apparently he is now a himbo (even though he didn’t come across that way previously) as everyone keeps saying he’s not the smartest. We learn that something his father did got him killed and the sleuth cursed. What is it you ask? Who knows! It’s mentioned several times to reiterate Chris is desperate to break the curse, but we know that. Frankie is only slightly better as he’s characterized by others as a small but fierce man who's been used and thrown away by every pack he’s been in, and he's shown to be a thoughtful mediator and is the principle player in figuring out how to woo Teague so he feels more developed.

Besides the narrative not having much time for character development, their relationship progression is rushed as well. While Chris and Frankie were together for a month, it takes an apology rabbit, a pine cone centerpiece and Teague walking in on Frankie and Chris throwing down on the floor for a conversation to happen and Teague suddenly to be all in, and they only have a few days together as a throuple. They get together and have some tender moments and times of comforting one another that are nice, but there's not much depth. Even the MCs all mention that they don’t know each other. There’s not even an off-page mention of any late night convos or anything.

The biggest focus of their time when all three are together is the sex. Intimate scenes involving a sex-indifferent asexual person take a deft hand at making all participants feel connected, and while Burke does a decent job, it doesn’t feel equal to me. I think that bc Frankie and Chris were together, making out and connecting with each other emotionally for a month without Teague and only coming up with something in all that time bc they are in forced into close proximity is part of the reason I feel Teague was sidelined in a way.

However, my main issue is with Chris and the inconsistencies. In each book, there is some wobbly/unexplained magic or concept that should get an explanation but doesn’t, and here it proved a distraction for me. Chris and Frankie recognized each other as mates right away and Chris has to explain this is how it works to Frankie, yet when he met Teague in person did he not know this was his mate? If no, why not since Teague is his mate just like Frankie? If yes then he’s an extra asshole for the spell bc he knowingly and willfully lied to his mate. Chris says he and Teague had been chatting for years yet the spell was supposedly done to protect him and his sleuth from the brothers? Why? Also it just leaves a bad taste in my mouth that Chris and Frankie get together on the same night Teague delivered his devastating news to Chris. Hopefully, he and Frankie had their simmering, inescapable kisses before that convo bc yikes.

And that third act…just full of stupidity. It was basically a lot of "what?, but why tho? no seriously, wtf?" bc just like everything else, it was rushed and ended with a literal deus ex machina and some more random nonsense. Having Muirloch be cursed w/impotence is a cool way to nerf a creature w/extreme powers, but that means she’s spent most of the series cackling in the background as she sends out her flying monkeys. Likewise her ending is as anticlimactic as if she melted after being hit with some water.

If Teague finding love had been stronger and better handled, I might not have cared as much about the inconsistencies or underdeveloped love interests, but alas this was not what I got so for me the series ends with a whimper.

[Melanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

good end to a wonderful trilogy

Rating: 4 🌈

Stone Heart is the finale to Jenn Burke’s terrific The Gargoyles of Arrington trilogy. Teague O’Reilly, the object of the curse, as well as the only brother not to have found his soulmate, is currently caught up in a fabricated plot, one that has him mate bound to a shifter under false pretenses. That would be Chris Holt, a bear shifter whose cursed sleuth can’t shift properly or have young. A prophecy said a trio of gargoyle brothers would lead them home so he trapped Teague into a bond without thinking of the consequences to Teague and others.

The other being Frankie, a mountain lion shifter who’s found his way through some very dramatic events to the O’Reilly brothers mansion and into Teague’s life.

Burke is giving the last book and relationship a new aspect from the previous two. Teague has been resigned to dying, especially since finding out that Chris has deceived him. However, the twist is both Chris and Frankie are not only mates but believe Teague is their mate too. So there’s a potential for a triad relationship between the three people if they all can work through the huge issues and raised barriers.

That includes the fact that Teague is asexual and doesn’t want a sexual relationship with his “mate’, a barrier Teague has raised in his mind without any evidence that it wouldn’t work out. Teague is ace , terrific representation which puts his soulmate bonding into a different light than his brothers. Both Chris and Frankie, the would be soulmates , are definitely sexual beings. So there is a need for communication. There’s the issue of age (younger) within Teague’s mind,but, tbh , everyone is younger than the O’Reilly brothers who’ve lived hundreds of years.

The author has to tackle each element that serves as a barrier to their triad soulbond and do so while finishing off the arc theme of a vengeful Fae determined to get her promised son or bring death to all.

That’s a plentiful task for Burke to take on in one novel, let alone also get rid of the curse on Chris which would allow his bear clan to become full bear shifter once again.

Did I feel all the elements were fully explored and narratively explained to their fullest potential here? Not really. I think Burke had too many interesting topics and side storylines that needed fulfillment for that to happen.

Terrific aspects of this book? The ace representation , Frankie working through his feelings of inadequacy, and the abiding love of the O’Reilly brothers for each other. Teague has been a consistently strong character and watching him grow and develop as a partner here in his own right has been one I wanted to see. I just wish I found the chemistry between the three of them to be more believable. Perhaps it just didn’t work for me, not the triad, but that we had no prior background for this to happen.

Other storylines I found less filled out? The police department element which was never well based or executed. Chris’ sleuth’ curse ending . That requires way more explanation. And then the quick work that was made of Muirloch. Plus that other last revelation.

I did love that almost bittersweet scene at the end with all three brothers reflecting on those missing loved ones and where they all ended up. It’s a lovely quiet moment and a perfect way to end the trilogy.

While Stone Heart may not have been my favorite of the series, I did enjoy it. And I’m definitely recommending all three books that make up this remarkable arc!

The Gargoyles of Arrington:
- [x] Stone Wings #1
- [x] Stone Skin #2
- [x] Stone Heart #3 - finale

[Lola · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a free copy from the author and voluntarily reviewed it.

Stone Heart is the third and last book in this gargoyle paranormal romance series and I was excited to see the last brother find his happy ending. This book has a MMM romance and I was really curious to see how the author handled it. I thought Stone Heart was an awesome ending to the series. It wraps up all the ongoing series plot lines and has a great romance for Teague as well.

This book had quite a bit of plot to wrap up. There's the Fomori that cursed the three brothers and still has her sights set on Teague. Then there is Chris and the rest of his family who are still cursed and unable to shift in their bear forms. I liked seeing how these plot lines got resolved. There was an interesting twist and I was glad to see how it all got resolved. It bothered me how the Fomori kept interfering in their lives and I got annoyed with what she was doing, but I think that's the goal here to show how nasty she is. I did feel at times that with so much plot there wasn't as much space as I wanted for the romance, but I still really enjoyed this book.

I have to admit I hadn't seen the hints that this would be a MMM romance in earlier books, but I thought it worked really well here. And Chris and Frankie are both introduced in earlier books already so that helped as I knew a bit about them already. This book has the point of views of all three of the guys and I liked the way they got together. I appreciated how it was low on drama, but there were things they had to figure out and work through. It felt very realistic. I liked how Chris and Frankie were so understanding of Teague being ace and never pushed him for more. And it was awesome to see how they helped each other out. I also really liked how Chris and Teague were there for Frankie when he needed their support. And how Chris took his best to apologize to Teague at the start of the book and showed he was really sorry and this led to some funny situations. There are some great scenes with the three of them and I really liked seeing how they interacted together and formed a throuple.

My only complaint was that I just wanted to see even more of them. They get together relatively early on in the book and then the plot shifts to dealing with the curses for a bit, till at the end there's the wrap up and epilogue where we see a bit more of how they're dealing with everything. I just would've liked to see even more of the romance and how they are together. The epilogue was awesome and I really liked seeing where it left things.

To summarize: I enjoyed this last installment in the series where the lats brother Teague finds his romance with Chris and Frankie. I liked the way the author handled the MMM romance in this book and I thought they made for a great throuple. With the book being quite plot heavy as well I did wish it was a bit longer so there was more time for the romance and to see them all grow closer. There are some great scenes with the three of them and I liked how they're there for each other. There isn't much drama, but they do have things they need to work through. The fomori who cursed them is still there and causing some serious problems in this book and I was really annoyed with her and how she interfered in their lives. I liked seeing how the plot lines regarding the curse got resolved. The epilogue was great and I liked how this book wrapped up the series.

[Taylin Clavelli · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reviewed for Love Bytes – 5 hearts.
After five-hundred years of searching, Teague is the only brother who hasn’t found love and broken the witch’s curse. He believes he will sleep in his gargoyle state for another hundred years before waking alone. However, Chris and Frankie have different ideas. The question is whether they have enough time to convince an asexual Teague that love comes in many forms. The idea is simple, but with plenty of obstacles, the execution is nigh impossible.
Having read and loved the other books in this series, I was almost shaking with anticipation before I even turned a page. I suspect it was also the most difficult of the three to write. After all, how do you finish a fantastic series? In two words - Like this.
The story is told in the first person with chapters from the named viewpoints of Teague, Chris, and Frankie. The paranormal worldbuilding began with book one and has grown with each novel. But this tale expands to a cabin, other shifters not seen before, and Teague’s own police department. Also, there’s an element of human behavior and a wicked witch intent on snatching away the happiness that has been five hundred years in the making.
Teague is a gargoyle who has served in one kind of law enforcement or another for hundreds of years. He’s a man of honor, integrity, and some special powers. When what Teague holds dear is targeted, it hits him hard. As head of the family, he feels somewhat alone, so his journey to the realization that he has people he can lean on is beautiful. But Stone Heart isn’t just Teague’s story. It is the coming together of three souls from very different backgrounds that find a home in each other.
Due to cursed influence, Chris is a shifter who, alongside his family, has connection issues with his bear. As their leader, Chris’s decisions are part of the story in book two. Therefore, he feels a need to make up for the past. Chris also likes peanut butter sandwiches and chopping wood, yet he doesn’t enjoy the outdoor lifestyle. Chris knows that Frankie is his mate, and he believes that Teague completes their triad.
Frankie is a mountain lion shifter whose cat knows Chris and Teague are his. Frankie is practical, resilient, and the voice of reason between Teague and Chris. His past has been a patchwork of pride’s where he learned many skills. They are also the source of Frankie’s demons.
Stone Heart was a story where I wanted to take in every word and, at the same time, rush the reading to see what happened. The arcs of characters come together in this wonderful story, which I will have to read again and again because I’ll need to fill the gargoyle-sized hole that these characters will leave. And each time, I’ll need to cope with the blubbering mess that I’ll be by the end.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for
Love Bytes.

[Xanthe · Rating 5 out of 5]

We've come to the final book of the Gargoyles of Arrington series which means that the final brother gets his own HEA. I like that this one is a little different in the relationship setup though as Teague identifies as asexual and he also has two mates hoping to see what he can have with them.
Chris has made this a harder possibility after he bound himself to Teague, though in his defence it was to protect his sleuth and he didn't really look into the ramifications on Teague. Now that Teague knows what happened, there is a fair bit of animosity. Then there is Frankie, a mountain lion shifter who was part of a pack fighting against the gargoyles but controlled by evil fae who is trying to get Teague, is now part of the found family that has come together with the three brothers, two mates and five shifters who left the pack as soon as they could and sought refuge. Chris and Frankie are aware of what they are to each other, now it's a case of convincing Teague. However, he is soon accused of something that jeopardises his job with the police and possibly his freedom.
A case of forced proximity has the three men growing closer, somewhat reluctantly on Teague's part, and Chris is just hilariously adorable in his attempts to make amends with his gargoyle mate. The three men balance each other very well. Frankie is young, full of life and happiness whereas Chris is more low key, very focused on what is best for his pack and now his mates. Teague has always been the protector of his family which is what makes him such a good cop but it's hard for him to accept others wanting a relationship with him when it limits what he can give them. I enjoyed the way that part of the relationship developed between the triad, once confusion and frustrations were let out, there are a lot of discussions which are especially important with more people involved. They are equally sweet and hot together and it's so good how Teague is involved in all aspects, not being closed out but happy to explore things with his two mates and learn his limits.
The ongoing battle with Muirloch comes to a head as she takes efforts to ruin Teague's name and keep him with her. The whole group is affected and some attempt to take things into their own hands creating more problems. It finished a bit quicker than I was expecting but I was happy for Teague in how it turned out. The brothers have a wonderful scene together at the end, reminiscing about family and also the future now possible for them all.
I have really enjoyed the whole series, how things developed and turned out for all three brothers and their mates. Definitely a recommended read for those who enjoy a good paranormal romance with a series plot arc.
I received an arc and am happily giving a review.

[Janette · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jenn Burke brings The Gargoyles of Arrington series to its thrilling conclusion in this MMM, fated mates romance featuring a bear, a big cat and everyone’s favorite gargoyle shifter turned man of the law.

If you’re new to The Gargoyles of Arrington series, I highly recommend reading the trilogy in order. While each book centers around one brother’s happily ever after, the overall series arc drives the action. Readers jumping in at this stage would be missing some key information that will definitely impact their ability to understand and enjoy it.

Let’s talk about that overall series arc, because to be honest, that’s partly what had me devouring this entire series. This book picks up right where the second one left off and wastes no time ramping up the action, mystery and intrigue. I love Jenn Burke’s writing; she’s a master of world building and really knows how to wield magic and witchcraft with satisfying results. Only Teague remains under the curse Muirloch cast upon their family, and if he can find his way out of the mess Chris has made, maybe he can find a way to break it.

I’ll be honest, I didn’t really see this MMM pairing coming. I was gearing up for an angsty love triangle, but what happens instead definitely works. I’m pleasantly surprised how much I enjoyed it, because polyamorous romances often get me all up in my feelings over how the pieces fit together. If you’re someone who usually shies away from these stories, don’t let it stop you.

As much as the ongoing battle and romance make this a great read, I really enjoyed how all three guys are also battling their own personal demons. Frankie’s fight might be the most compelling, because he’s working to overcome feelings of worthlessness and low value he learned at the hands of his pride. He sees his role as less important and himself as expendable in a way that absolutely made my heart ache.

I highly recommend this book and series to anyone who enjoys paranormal romance, and shifters specifically. Stone Heart features so many beautiful moments in amongst the fear, worry and threat of danger that make it well worth the ride.

*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary coly of this book*

[Elizabeth D · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5/5 This was at once a wild ride and full of some beautiful quiet moments. I did not expect the … shape of the trouble in this book, which allowed for some totally different troubleshooting. There are a lot of gargoyle-adjacent people at this point, so it was handy to have an excuse to let our three MCs have some time alone. (It was like the “only one bed” trope on steroids, lol.)

Perhaps because there were three MCs, I didn’t feel like we got to know them quite as well as the MCs in books 1 & 2, but I still thoroughly enjoyed the insights and attempts to navigate a new relationship. (Oh, apology rabbit, how can you get any better than that? 😂) Chris’s bear was an absolute sweetheart and made me laugh and grin a lot.

I loved the ace representation and the fact that despite Chris and Frankie being very different in a lot of ways, there was never any question that they were going to respect Teague and figure out how to make this work between them.

As much as it was bad for Teague, I’m actually grateful that the accusations were taken seriously by the police department. (I felt compelled by reality to step out of my “this character is innocent” and widen it to “somewhere, a cop did hurt a woman, and I need his colleagues to treat the allegation seriously”. I never wanted him to be mistreated, and I was happy he received support, too, but I didn’t want it to be swept under the carpet.) I thought the resolution was an interesting one and can imagine it working for Teague.

There were plenty of twists and turns in the overall resolution—I did not expect it all. I’m so happy that everyone got their HEAs, and I loved the brothers’ epilogue together.

I received an ARC from the author. This is my honest review.

[Lindsey Middlemiss · Rating 4 out of 5]

Teague gets his HEA

Teague gets his HEA as the story comes to a close.

This is book 3 in the Gargoyles of Arrington series/trilogy and this is Teague's story. Cursed to be a gargoyle and waking up for 25 years at a time after a hundred years in stone, the only known way to break the curse is to find true love. But eldest brother Teague has always worried that that will be more difficult for him, and that was before his soul was apparently bound to Christian. A shifter he had thought he could find a connection with, before Chris's lies came to light. But now, Teague needs to get out of town, and it would seem that Chris, and beautiful young mountain lion shifter Frankie, are both coming with him.

I really liked these 3 characters and I enjoyed reading Stone Heart. I felt the completion of the vaguely Irish mythology based overarching story was good although the battle scene felt a little rushed. However, I felt not enough page time was given to the building of their relationship, especially Teague and Frankie's. Also, Frankie having been sexually assaulted in his former pride was hinted at repeatedly and then just not followed up, which bugged me.

Definitely need to read the books in order.

In this you'll find:
✨ MMM monster romance with some spice
✨ Cursed gargoyle shifters
✨ Fierce & pretty pansexual Mountain Lion shifter
✨ Cursed Bear (in every way) gay shifter
✨ Asexual MC
✨ Enemies to lovers
✨ Age gap
✨ Forced proximity + only 1 bed
✨ Irish mythology
✨ Survivor of am abusive situation
✨ Kidnapping
✨ Shooting
✨ Coercion
✨ Found family
✨ A HEA

[Bibliophile · Rating 2 out of 5]

I normally like Jenn Burke, but this series (and this novel, in particular) didn't do it for me. I thought I would love being introduced to a new paranormal (for me, at least) which was gargoyles, but the reality was that they are just not as interesting as, say, a werewolf or vampire. They mainly sit still as a statue for years on end, are stronger when in gargoyle form, and some have tails while others have horns, etc.. But that's pretty much it.

The romance here, too, was a bit meh. Part of the challenge, I suspect, is that this story features an asexual character (which I applaud and was excited about) so some of the sexy and steaminess--becuase the character is told from his POV--just isn't there. But that challenge is compounded by the insta-love that occurs between his other two mates. Because they know they are fated instantly, the reader never gets a chance to connect to the characters or root for their romance.

So I just wasn't as invested and I found myself skimming this book which I almost never do (I try to honor the fact that an author invested a lot of time creating a story and it's a real gift that we get to read it).

It's a bummer. I liked Jen Burke's other series, however, so I suspect I'll enjoy future works by her. This one just wasn't for me.

[Sammy Higgins · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can't believe it's over, but I'm glad we finished with Teague's story.

I knew after he met Chris that Teague would be his mate, but Frankie was a nice suprise. I didn't know how Teague could get over what Chris did, but I'm glad he had Frankie to help mend that hurt. They just compliment each other, and they just work better together than apart.

I was so happy to see how they reacted Teague's asexuality and that they didn't force him to participate in sex. He could keep to his comfort level, and they made sure he still felt included.

The continuing story arc finally had its big conclusion, and it kept me worried for a bit. That fae was crazy and hell-bent on getting Teague. She used some dirty tactics, and some bits had my emotions all over the place. I'm just glad she got her comeuppance, but not before I really started worring at two points, mainly down to Frankie and Chris; they had me worried! All three of them worked hard for the happy ending!

I smiled like a crazy woman at the end; it just made me so happy that they all found their true loves. I couldn't have wished for a better outcome! I will be sad to see them go, but I hope we see them again. I'm really hoping we see more from the new pack that helped Chris, in the future.

[Annie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've really enjoyed the entire Gargoyles of Arrington series and found the final book in the trilogy to be a nice cap off to the series. Teague proved to be a really interesting piece of the brothers, and I definitely hadn't been expecting the romance that unfolded in Stone Heart.

I always enjoy when authors explore different relationship dynamics so I found the coupling of Teague with two shifters to be an interesting plotline. Moreover, the revelation that Teague is asexual made this romance a bit different than others in the series. I think the author did a wonderful job respecting Teague's feelings while still providing the reader with a good amount of romance and relationship development.

Beyond the romance in Stone Heart, the story arc that wraps the brothers battle to undo their family's curse and defeat the witch who's damaged their family proved to be exciting. There's a good bit of drama in this book, but I found the resolution satisfying and genuinely enjoyed the entire book. If you enjoy fantasy romances with some magic, suspense, and action, I'd recommend The Gargoyles of Arrington series.

*eARC received via author's ARC group. The author and PA had no influence over this review.*

[Megan Jackson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a lovely, light-hearted monster romance. With a little bit of a twist on what you would typically associate as the gargoyle mythos.

I enjoyed this entire series. This book was also written as the first and second. I think the author did a very good job at bringing closure to the series. And I like how, in the end, he ends up saving himself and not through true love. Not that there's anything wrong with how the previous books broke the curse. It just feels like justice was finally served.

I recommend all three of these books as a great autumn read. They are monster romances that almost have a cozy feel to them. This also sheds light on the different spectrums of ace. This also has three faded mates and enemies to lovers.

In this book, He has a tail, He is also a member of the local police force and basically tucking his tail into his trousers to hide it when in his human skin. He's of the three remaining brothers, He seems to have the best control at staying in his human skin.

As was book one, a lot happens in a short. Of time and picks up right where book two left off.

This was a great read and definitely recommended if you want a different take on gargoyle shifters. His faded mate is both a sort of bear shifters and lion shifters.

[Anne Barwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve enjoyed this series and am sad it’s finished, although the final book leaves all the brothers in a good place and with a future to look forward to. I loved Teague’s story, and his growing relationship with Chris and Frankie, and the part they all played in breaking the curse(s).

I loved how the author wrote Teague’s asexuality, and how Frankie and Chris respected his comfort levels. They’re all very different personalities and their relationship works with each of them balancing out each other’s strengths. I loved how Teague’s empathy is very much a part of the plot, and how Frankie and Chris are still dealing with their pasts.

The brothers’ relationship is a huge strength of this series. I enjoyed seeing Drew and Rian as human, and settled with their partners, and the others that have joined their family. I liked Neil and his pack, and the twists in this story, especially with Keelan. I’d love to see more of them.

Muirloch is a nasty piece of work especially as she ramps up her obsession with Teague. I loved how that part of the story played out with an exciting conclusion. I was seriously worried that not all of them would make it out alive!

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an incredible wrapup to our Gargoyles centuries' journey. Jenn truly saved the best for last. Each one of this amazing throuple have a brokeness in their lives. Teague wants to break the curse so he will not lose his brothers. Chris has lost his true bear through a curse . Frankie struggles with his selfworth within his pack family. In their individual journeys and their journey together, Burke treats these journeys with a tenderness, an openess, wonderful communications, such respect for Teague's sexuality. While I have read the previous books, I was hesitant to read this one becaus of the polyamory. So often for me, I get a sense of inequities in the relationship dynamics, affecting my enjoyment of the story. But Burke does an incredible job with our MCs. There's such a sense of equality, a true give and take. The suspense arc is resolved with the bad people finally getting their overdue comeuppance but the resolution does not overwhelm the narrative. And read this series just for the epilogue.

"O Raghailligh Abu!"

[Tünde Kasza tóth · Rating 3 out of 5]

I hoped this one would be better than the previous books in the series. Not to misunderstand, they were solid, good reads. As is this book. I was just hoping for a bit more.

While there was quite a bit of relationship development, we didn't really get to know any of the guys. Teague's lived for 500 years, has been awake for 150 of it, and we only kbow that he was some king's guard/soldier in his original life and he is a cop now. But everything in between? We will never know. Chris has lived with the curse for 30 years, but what else did he do besides living with it and trying to get rid of it, we will never know. The most we get to know about is Frankie, but even his dark past is explained in one sentence and that's it. How can I relate to characters like this?

Maybe the chaos station series was the exception to the rule? Or maybe it had more to do with the other author? I'll have to check her out to be sure.

Anyways, good, solid romance with more relationship building than porn and an actual plot. It's worth reading. Just don't expect the best book of your life.

[Lois · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm conflicted about this story, well the whole series to be honest, but it was one of those 'I've started and I'm determined to finish' things. I loved the idea of cursed gargoyles and I was looking forward to Teague's story - an asexual gargoyle with not one but two mates. The opportunities were endless, but sadly not realised. The overarching plot was brought to a satisfactory finish, which I was glad for, but the relationship between Teague, Chris and Frankie never really worked for me. There wasn't any real chemistry between them, it was all just a bit meh to be honest. I'm also struggling to get over the many plot holes - why don't the boys age when they're awake ? If they don't how the hell has Teague managed to work for the police for twenty years without anyone noticing ? And finally, lovely as the ending was (and I'm a bit softy so it made me cry a bit), how the hell was Finnian still alive after Teague has been asleep for 98 years ???

[Juniper · Rating 5 out of 5]

Teague is the final brother still bound by the curse (gentle note that you’ll want to check out previous books in the Gargoyles of Arrington series, if you haven’t already, for context on overarching plot, the characters, and the world these characters inhabit) and I have to say, with love to his siblings and their stories, his installment in the saga is hands down my favorite. There’s a lot to like here: plot twists and turns aplenty, some classic tropes (only one bed etc.) ace representation, a blend of fun/humor/serious/supernatural elements, an evil witch, a clever resolution, and all the glory that is Teague, Chris, and Frankie sorting themselves out and making things work in ways that are sweet and caring and just kinda perfect for them. 4.5 stars.

*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

[Jude · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this third book in the series a satisfying read. I finished it feeling happy, content, and peaceful. Perhaps because I recognized bits and pieces of myself in all three of the main characters in that way when your reading and you go "Oh! I know that feeling!" or "Yep - understand that move."

Overall, the book wrapped things up neatly and filled in holes. Was it the type of writing with twists and turns that took the reader by surprise? No - it was like traveling an unfamiliar road and coming around the corner to a new, yet familiar scene that is in some way comforting. Well worth the read for the feel-good effect, but I love the fact that one of the main characters is Ace and it blends into the story as an accepted, normal part of the relationship. Warning, if you - as a reader - do not understand Ace at a deeper level - you may react negatively. 4.5/5 for me.

[Becca · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a good end to the series, but there was a lot going on here, to the point where there wasn't enough depth for me. Everything was tied up, but I wanted more. In particular, I would have liked more relationship development between Chris, Frankie and Teague. The Frankie/ Chris part of the polycule began off page before the start of this book, and I really wished we could have had more of that on page. Because not enough time was spent with the characters, it was hard to understand some of their actions and reactions - we were told why they did the things they did, but there wasn't enough showing.

That said, I did enjoy this book. The ace rep was well done, again could have done with more exploration of it within the context of the relationship.

All the threads that needed to be tied up were, although I found the conclusion a bit anticlimactic.

[avid reader 1 · Rating 5 out of 5]

4 1/2 Stars

Stone Heart is a beautiful conclusion for The Gargoyles of Arrington series.
I enjoyed seeing the main characters from prior books and the assurance that their HEA is still strong. The secondary characters continue to support the storyline, and there are a few that I would love to see in future books.
Now, I am always a bit wary of MMM books. It's so easy for the story to go in a primarily physical direction since " more " is involved (that's good when I'm in the mood for that). But I also love a love story. And that is what I got here. The dynamic of the three conveys what each partner wants and needs, and their acceptance of each other was lovely to see. They made a somewhat difficult? different? situation easier with their patience and caring. The storyline put them through their paces, which made the ending much sweeter. Their connection is strong and HEA satisfying and believable.
The Gargoyles of Arrington is a good series. I'm sorry to see it end.
I look forward to more from this author.

[Alicia · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've enjoyed this series and love the worldbuilding. I'm not sure why I never felt completely enthralled by this installment. I love the concept (especially the poly and ace representation), but for a lot of it I was just kind of reading along: and then this happened, and then the other thing happened, and then something else happened. It could simply be that I wasn't in the right mood for this particular story. There's no huge flaw I can put my finger on, just that the characters didn't grab me as much as I expected them to.

My thanks to the author for an advance copy of this book.

[Demetra Roussakis · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book 3 in the series they must be read in order to understand the characters and overall arc of the Riley brothers. Now it is Teague’s turn to find his happy ever after. After realizing what Chris had done, he was very upset with him. Then you have Frankie whose backstory is not a pleasant one. Both Chris and Frankie realized they are mates along with Teague. This is the start of the story of how they got together, solved the curse that bound them and ended with their happy ever after. Great world building, chemistry and heat. Loved it and looking forward to more by this author.