Hidden by the Gargoyle

by C.C. Wood

All my life, I was a human in a town full of supernatural beings.

Until I discover that I have latent magic and a dangerous destiny to fulfill.

I need protection and Dax Tremaine, a gargoyle I’ve known since childhood, volunteers for the job. He doesn’t know that I’ve been in love with him for a decade. Or that I’m still a virgin because I can’t let go of my fantasies of our future.

I never thought he would know, much less want me. Until a warlock casts a spell on me and Dax kisses me to break it.

The heat between us explodes but Dax is holding back. As the peril around me grows, I learn more about Dax’s past…and why he won’t let himself love me.

I’m determined to survive my destiny and protect everyone I love. Especially a certain gruff gargoyle.

But unless Dax can open his heart, I may not get my happily ever after.

Genres: Paranormal, Fantasy, Romance

256 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 18, 2024

About the author

Born and raised in Texas, C.C. Wood writes saucy paranormal and contemporary romances featuring strong, sassy women and the men that love them. If you ever meet C.C. in person, keep in mind that many of her characters are based on people she knows, so anything you say or do is likely to end up in a book one day.

A self-professed hermit, C.C. loves to stay home, where she reads, writes, cooks, and watches TV. She can usually be found drinking coffee or wine as she spends time with her hubby, daughter, and two beagles.

Reviews

[Lady Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC review

What a wonderfully written, saucy story.

I loved Allison's strong, sassy character, and she perfectly complimented Dax's protective, broken soul.

Great story!
Great dialogue!
Wonderful characters!

A fantastic addition to the "Devil Springs " series!

"An ARC of this book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. "

[Brandi-Lynn Weiser · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hidden by the Gargoyle is my favorite book in the series so far! I loved Dax and Ally’s story so much. The writing was so descriptive and detailed that I had no trouble visualizing what was happening. I loved how jealous Dax got over Talant, and I really enjoyed seeing Talant push his buttons at times. I really got a kick out of Talant and look forward to seeing more of him. Although there were moments I really would’ve liked to have had Dax’s POV, everything else about this book was excellent! Especially the sex! I really really liked the sex scene between Ally and Dax when he was in his gargoyle state! That was hot. Looking forward to Minerva’s story next.

[Mick C · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved Dax and Ally's story. And the continuing saga that is Devils Spring. Just when we get answers, we have more questions....

[KILLERTEMPTRESS · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky to receive an ARC copy and have the pleasure of leaving a review.

This is the third book in the series. Started with a bang. The title of the book tells you everything to expect. Yes, this book contains gargoyles, magic, witches, and more. If you are not into paranormal, shifter, and magic. Then this book may not be for you.

However, if you are like myself and love these types of books, I highly recommend giving thai series a read and book 3 had so much in it, great descriptions, character development, and strong FMC.

Great scenes, and the writing in the book really made you feel like you are a part of the story and makes visualising it in your mind very easy.

Loved this book, May be my favourite so far out of the three.

[Beth Booklover · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.7⭐️ Stone Cold Gargoyle Shifter Gets Hot & Heavy with the Woman He’s Protecting

I really like how C.C. Wood writes stories with atypical shifters. I typically prefer stories with dual perspectives b/c I like knowing what’s going on the both MCs’ heads, but C.C. did a really good job only having Ally’s perspective yet helping us connect to both MCs. Dax was a cool MC who had built up walls so he didn’t lose anyone he loved ever again. I loved reading how Ally broke those walls down. There was a bit of suspense & angst throughout the story, as well as quite a few steamy scenes. I wasn’t distracted by lots of editing mistakes, which is always a win for me. Plus, I got a HEA along with a peek into what I expect will be the next book in the series. I look forward to reading that one, too.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Nicole Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a continuation of the series and starts off where book 2 ended. I'm thrilled that Dax and Ally got a book. These two are frustrating at times. However, when they finally come together, pun intended, it's beautiful, sexy, and sweet. I love that I didn't have to wait FOREVER for them to consummate their relationship.
Seeing Dax go full gargoyle was exciting, as was seeing Ally learning how to harness her power. There's some exciting twists involving favorite characters at the end that I'm excited to see how their future unfolds. Great addition to this series.

[Clare · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another incredible book by this very talented author! Loved this book, I couldn’t put it down! The storyline kept me gripped from the start and I absolutely love Ally & Dax! I loved their interactions and the steamy moments between them. Very intrigued by the storylines unfolding for the other characters too, can’t wait to see what happens next! This is definitely one of my new favourite series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Nightbird Novels · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars

Allison Grant is in danger, but as luck would have it, she has her very own gargoyle dedicated to protecting her. The only thing is... she has the biggest crush on him, and he... definitely does not.

Dax Tremaine is a protector by nature, but Ally is someone who he would never let be touched by danger. And while living together in close quarters may be the only solution to the threats that Ally is facing, neither of them believe it will be an easy one...

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Hidden by the Gargoyle was an extremely spicy, paranormal, romance read! Ally and Dax have been at odds over her feelings for him for years, but when sharing a close proximity heats up their former friendship, neither one of them will be able to deny just how they are truly meant for each other...

Ally recently discovered that the powers she has been waiting her entire life for are finally manifesting... at the worst possible time. Her destiny may be to help awaken a God, but all Ally dreams of is getting Dax to view her in the same way she views him... utterly irresistible. And while she has been in love with Dax for years, he has been avoiding her for just as long...

Dax has always been protective by nature, but he is an altogether different gargoyle when it comes to how he treats Ally. Sure, he may be attracted to her, but he would absolutely never make a move on the witch he cares so much for...

This book was a scorching hot, ultra-sexy read that I could not put down! Ally and Dax's story revolved around their hidden feelings and ancient forces which threaten to end their love before it can even truly begin. I absolutely loved the dynamic between these two characters, and of course their chemistry was off-the-charts!

I am already completely addicted to the Devil Springs series, and I can't wait for what comes next in this absolutely fantastic world!

I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest and unbiased review.

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[Lois · Rating 5 out of 5]

She's melted the gargoyle's heart of stone. 

Dax Tremaine has been sent to collect Ally Grant. Her Aunt Minerva, or Aunt Minnie, or MinMin, as she calls her, had a premonition that something bad was going to happen to Ally. Dex is a gargoyle, and as such, he's a natural protector. She's had a crush on him for ten years. As she's gotten older, he's become more withdrawn from her. She can't figure out why. However, her aunt's premonition was correct. They were attacked by a warlock, Edgar Sommerton, using black magic. He's working with a lion shifter, Leona Mansfield, in their quest to wake the blood god, Talant. Sommerton was unsuccessful due to Dex and a protection spell Aunt Minnie had placed on his SUV. 

Ally had always thought she was human. During the attack, she felt something shift inside her, but it didn't remain. Something or someone is blocking her magic. She also realized that she is the key to waking the blood god. Her powers appeared much later than normal for a witch. Now she not only has to learn what her powers are but, more importantly, how to control them. 

Ally came to live with her aunt when she was eleven, after the death of her parents. She was deeply depressed. Dax seemed to be the only one, other than her aunt, to be able to connect with her. They had become good friends until she was a teenager. Then he began withdrawing from her. She thought it was because he was embarrassed by her crush on him. Nothing could be farther from the truth. Dax feels unworthy of her because of what he considers his greatest failure in life, his inability to save his queen and her infant son. 

When Sommerton kidnaps both Ally and Minerva, he will put his life on the line to save them. Maybe it will also be time to discuss their relationship...

I received an ARC of this book from the author via Booksprout. I am voluntarily leaving this review.

[Ellie (On a break, mostly rereading) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hidden by the Gargoyle is a standalone paranormal romance by C.C. Wood, and is the third book in the Devil Springs series. The title and blurb are pretty self explanatory and give you all you need to know, in my opinion, and if you're into shifters, witches and gargoyles, you will probably want to give this book a go.

The book follows Ally, who had always thought herself to be plain old human. She has lived with her Aunt Minnie (Minerva) since she was a teenager, and her aunt is magically inclined. And then there is the gargoyle, Dax, who she developed a crush on. Now that Ally is all grown up, finished college and has established herself, there is trouble on the horizon when she finds out that she isn't entirely human. And the gargoyle that she still crushes on is her protected. Dax is a gentle giant and is doing everything in his power to not give into any romantic feelings when it comes to Ally while he protects her from the danger that is chasing her. Dax is also gruff and broody and has built his walls a mile high.

Part of the danger and mystery that is threatening Ally is a dark witch with some nefarious plans, and another happens to be a god. Ally is on a journey of self discovery, and Dax my well miss his chance with her unless he figures out his own inner demons.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Toni · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ally is the key to waking the blood god. Her aunt is sending her away to be guarded by Dax, who is a guardian gargoyle. Her aunt sees visions and she must have seen something to cause her to have him guard her away from the town of Devil Springs. Her aunt is sending to stay in Dax's cabin on resort property.On the way they are attacked by Edgar Sommerton, a warlock, who uses the blackest of dark magic. Now here she is in his house. And there's only one bed!! She's had a crush on him since she was 17 and here she is 9 and a half years later still crushing on him. She's internally freaking because 1 BED!! But he makes a cot for himself on the floor. At night she dreams she's in a cave with Talant the blood god. Danger is heating up when Sommerton can get into her head. That's when Dax kisses her. Will they get their act together to realize they are drawn to each other? Will she ever be able to use her magic to unlock the blood god?
A fantastic story filled with love, danger, magic and friends.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Dani · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m loving how this series is going! Continuing where book 2 left off, this is the story of Ally and Dax.

Ally has come into her magic despite thinking herself powerless since she was a child. But now she has become the target of power-hungry fanatics when it was revealed that she is needed to awaken the blood god. But luckily, her gargoyle, Dax, is immune to most magic, making him a perfect choice for protection. Now they just need to handle the elephant in the room – her long lasting crush on him and what appears to be his ongoing impassiveness toward her. But he eventually shows her that he isn’t that good of an actor!

This book is told in Ally’s POV and is a slow to medium burn with a spice level of 3/5. The story line continues and should not be read as a standalone. It introduces good supporting characters that I think will become main characters in the books to come and ends on a cliffhanger. I am anxiously awaiting the next one!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Curvy Girl Book Nerd (Jen S) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hidden by the Gargoyle is
Book 3 of the Devil Springs series. It is a steamy paranormal, friends-to-lovers, grumpy-sunshine, forced-proximity, and protector romance. Allison (Ally) is a sassy witch who has just started to come into her powers. Dax is a hunky, grumpy gargoyle. Her aunt sends her to Dax for protection when she is threatened. Ally has had a crush on Dax forever. Dax has been around forever and has wall upon wall around his heart, not to mention he's afraid to lose Ally as a friend. Can he keep her safe?? Yes, but when they are forced together, the attraction in insane. OMG, the chemistry between these two was pure fire, and the sex scene with Dax in his gargoyle form was panty incinerating🔥🥵. I just loved these two and can not wait for the next book!! The whole series of Devil Springs is amazing if you love the fantasy and magic of all kinds of monsters and other creatures. The series is filled with love, steam, mystery, and magic.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Emily Pennington · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ally and Dax’s Story . . .

When Ally, who has always believed she was just a human, finally comes into her magic witch powers, she is attacked by warlock Edgar Sommerton using black magic since she is the means of awakening the blood god, Talant. She is in immediate need of protection, and Dax Tremaine quickly comes to her aid. He is a gargoyle friend she has known all her life. She has also had a long-term huge crush on him, yet he seems disinterested. Will the two of them admit their true feelings as they are in such close proximity now? Why does he seem determined to resist those feelings? Will Dax be able to defeat the evil that is desperate to get at Ally?

This story line will pull the reader in as events occur to shake things up. The characters are so good together, especially as they face evil while steadily getting closer to their own destiny. Grab your copy and cheer them on to a HEA!

[Terriann Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely devoured this book! I have been waiting on tenterhooks since the last book and I am not disappointed. This is the third book in the Devils springs series and tells the story of Allison and Dax, Allison is a witch in training that lives with her aunt in Devil's Spring. When her life is put at risk she is sent to live with Dax, a protective Gargoyle she has known for a few years, she has been secretly in love with him for a while and finds it difficult to keep her feelings hidden in such close proximity. Will she survive? Does Dax return her feelings? Absolutely adore this series and I cannot wait for the next book to be released! Its going to be torture! Please hurry 😂 Best to read the series in order.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sam · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gargoyle Protector

This is such a fun and exciting series!! Set in Devil Springs, a small town of paranormal and supernatural residents. Ally has lived in Devil Springs, to her knowledge as a human among supernatural beings. When the tables turn and it’s discovered that she’s not as human as she originally thought, she needs protection. And that protection comes in the form as a gargoyle named Dax.

Ally has loved Dax forever and now that they are forced together, feelings get exposed and passions ignite. I really liked this story and these characters. It was nice to get some content on the characters from the previous books as well. Loved it and I recommend this series!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Shawna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Hidden by the Gargoyle Book 3 of Devil Springs. Ally needs protecting and Dax is the man, or Gargoyle, for the job. He doesn’t know that Ally has loved him for as long as she can remember but he doesn’t feel the same. Or does he? While she soon finds he feels the same, he also pushes her away. Danger is coming for Ally and Dax will keep her safe but other than that, he can’t offer her what she wants. This book has all the emotions. Dax can be so frustrating but also so caring. I loved the storyline and the characters. I would definitely recommend this book and the series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lynn Sell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dax is a gargoyle who has known Ally since her teenage years. Ally has lived with her aunt who has magical powers and weave spells. Ally herself has not come into her powers and no has dark forces after her. Dax is now her shield and protector. Ally has always had a crush on Dax but felt that it may be one sided. Now they are thrown together to protect her. To see what happens with their relationship, you will need to read this story. I loved the story line and characters. I found myself laughing as well as swooning with Dax and Ally, This book was one I couldn't put down!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Becky · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a paranormal story about a lonely gargoyle, Dax, and a girl, Ally, who is in love with him. Dax has lived a long time and has lost so many people he loved and cared for that he is afraid to let Ally in. She is in grave danger so the aunt she lives with, Minerva, sends her to stay with Dax for her protection. As the book progresses there are several unexpected twists. Lots of magic and chemistry between Dax and Ally. I loved this book!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Becky Wise · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hidden by the Gargoyle is a fabulous read. I loved this one so much. I could not get enough of Dax and Ally. Dax is that protective Gargoyle that you are going to just love. Ally a witch who has yet to gain her powers is so lovely. I love how with Dax by her side finally finds her powers. Dax and Ally have amazing chemistry that just grows in this one. You feel the pull from the moment Dax is brought on to protect Ally. This has everything I was wanting and then some. I cannot wait to see where the Devil Springs series goes next

[Amber Beasley · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story drops you into a story in progress. I’ve read a previous story but must have missed one because I was lost at the beginning. Some I feel the reader is suppose to be lost about because everyone in the story is but was confusing. The end was also a bit confusing with how things were solved or weren’t solved. I liked the couple side of the story though. They are a sweet couple and I thought how they approached starting a relationship worked for them.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although this is book 3 in a series it is easy to read as a stand alone with a mild cliff hanger at the end. If mystery , hot romance and lots of magic are your cup of tea this is the right book ( or series ) for you . Very strong female characters who are not going to let the males they love get away with thinking they are in charge all the time and plenty of action both in and out of the bedroom.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Carol Demmon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good story. Ally finds herself in danger and Dax volunteers to protect her. She has been attracted to Dax since she was a teenager and finding herself living with Dax at his cabin with one bed proves to be challenging. Between trying to work out their feelings for each other, they will be in danger and will have to trust in each other. I enjoyed reading this book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Heather Burnett · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love this book. Characters in this book was so spot on. I love the passion and the protectiveness. I love how dax was this strong silent gruffy type but a cinnamon roll in the center. She was this insecure girl that didn't know how to talk to Dax about some stuff. The storyline was great. Fantastic HEA.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[PW · Rating 5 out of 5]

Paranormal material isn’t usually my go to reading material but this book was a fantastic read. The different types of characters were explained well within the context of the story. The story included a major age difference, danger, good vs evil, and mysteries. Ally and Dax have history and a very involved love story. I found the writing and storylines captivating.

This Booksprout ARC is a fantastic read. This review includes my thoughts and feelings about this book.

[Melissa B · Rating 4 out of 5]

Holy smokes, I liked the first two books, but I think this is going to be my favorite.

I found Ally and Dax's story exciting, compelling, and totally captivating. He's been a constant in her life since she lost her parents and moved to Devil's Springs with her aunt.

Hidden feelings, magic, ancient powers, insecurities and tons of steam.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Berta Greenleaf Richardson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ally was a witch without powers and was in trouble. Dax was a gargoyle protector and a friend of Ally's. He was trying to protect her and she was trying to awaken a blood god. Someone was trying to get her to do it even before she knew she could. That person was evil and scary. Dax and Ally fell in love and got their HEA. I recommend this book to all paranormal romance readers.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the first book I read of the Devil's Springs series and it wont be the last! I am going to grab the books I missed ans watch for the next release (ooh cant wait to see what happens between Minerva and Talant lol!!) the characters and world building are great! I couldn't put rhis down and took my Saturday to read the whole thing at once!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Rhonda Howell · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a new to me author, with a wonderful series. This is the third book in the series and it is best to read in order so you can follow along easier. Ally has come into her powers late and searches out Dax who is a gargoyle to protect her. She has had a crush on him for years but does he feel the same? Can he protecting her from the evil forces coming after her? Great story with great characters.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Brenda Moser · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a well written book with strong characters in Allison and Dax. The author does a great job developing the story and pulled me in with the paranormal and magic. She moves the story fluidly and delivers a terrific read.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and are freely given.