Stone Temptation

Gargoyle Marked #1

by Richard Amos

Bartender. Reluctant thief. Potentially doomed.

Over the past three years, I’ve been trying to save my brother from a monster’s terrible curse. Stealing potential magical solutions, searching for a cure, desperate to get him back.
But I’m failing, life constantly getting in the way.

Damn.

And then my world is turned upside down in one eventful weekend.

I never expected the gargoyle’s mark…

After being forced to steal a strange ring by one gargoyle, I find myself marked by another.

Asher…

He becomes my bodyguard, duty-bound to be by my side.
Gargoyles never mark humans to offer their exclusive protection anymore. There’s no need. Their magical system keeps us all safe from the monsters plaguing our world.
Which means there is a different kind of nasty lurking in the shadows, waiting to take me down.

Why me?

As I search for answers, I find myself enraptured by Asher. He is a walking temptation, beyond delicious, setting my pulse on fire. But I must resist him, despite this instant attraction.
Easier said than done. And his constant proximity isn’t helping at all.
I really don’t need any more complications in my life!

But Asher would be the sweetest complication...

Stone Temptation is the first book in an M/M Paranormal Romance series featuring a human wreathed in mystery, and a gargoyle with a love for scented candles, crystal healing, and kicking monster ass. Dive into a twisty tale packed with gargoyles, monsters, magic, plenty of mayhem, and a sprinkle of spice.

This series follows the same couple, their romance blossoming across the books with an eventual HEA.

This book is not a standalone.

Genres: Fantasy, Magic, M M Romance, Romance, Paranormal, LGBT, Mystery

394 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 28, 2024

About the author

Richard Amos is an author from England who is constantly lost in the worlds he writes about, and the ones in the queue yet to be written. He also has more books in his house than anything else, and is never without a book (and chocolate) in his hands when he's not writing. He’s a proud nerd who loves to dance. Hard.

Richard writes M/M Fantasy, Urban Fantasy, and Paranormal Romance, all with tons of kick-ass action, adventure, twisty plots, and yummy times.

🔗 https://linktr.ee/richardamosauthor

Reviews

[Kristen Lewendon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my. I am so completely in love with the author’s tortured heroes. On the surface, Luke could be any of us, desperately trying to do the best under trying circumstances. But it’s possible there’s a lot more going on under the surface to make those circumstances even more challenging. And Asher? He may be a big bad gargoyle with a bit of a temper problem, but he’s just a squishy marshmallow inside. I adore this pair and I’m absolutely rabid to find out more about what’s really going on in their world.
I received a complimentary advance copy of this book from the author.

[Holly Rife · Rating 5 out of 5]

‘Stone Temptation’ is a book of monsters, humans, gargoyles and so much more.

In this supernatural world, there are protectors. And sometimes, gargoyles are sent to protect one human. Asher is sent to protect Luke and they don't know a whole lot, but what they do know is Asher will protect him until their world comes crashing down. I love the steam between them and the story… I'm looking forward to so much more in the future books!

[Richard Amos]

[Alyssa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Stone Temptation is a fun novel with monsters, gargoyles, humans, and even more than that. There’s a lot of creatures in this book!

This novel was set in the supernatural world where there are protectors. Protectors sent are occasionally gargoyles as with Asher who is sent to protect the main character Luke. As expected, both characters end up together due to the close proximity between both characters. I enjoyed reading the attraction and steamy scenes between Asher and Luke… I'm interested reading Richard Amos’ future books in this series!

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this novel.

[Kat · Rating 1 out of 5]

Couldn’t finish this one. I made it all the way to 60% before I just got bored and annoyed. This is one of those books that literally everything revolves around fucking. Life or death situation? But he has abs! Argument? But his voice is so deep it makes mc shiver!

I tried to over look this and finish the book but with this, lackluster story telling and poor character development I had to quit.

[KJ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another fascinating read from Richard Amos! This author absolutely excels in creating really neat magical systems and worlds and this first of the series does exactly that! With magic occurring from ‘motes’ released into the air that are also bringing monsters as well as magic, coupled with an element of gargoyles from another world becoming protectors for humans? Quite fascinating! An instant intrigue as well with Luke and his desire to save his brother Finn. Ultimately, a really neat beginning to a new series.


Would I go back in time and still read this book, knowing what I know now?
Certainly!


See below for the four criteria I use to decide whether and when to read a book


CHARACTERS: I love Luke. I think he’s wonderfully driven and also interesting and complex. In many ways he’s super comfortable with himself, physically and mentally, while at the same time dealing with real emotions from such traumatic situations and unrealized dreams. Navigating this world as best he can, I think my favorite is how he interacts with the different monsters that crop up during the story. Asher is truly lovely as well. A gorgeous gargoyle who has turned to crystal healing and meditation to take care of his mental health? Sign me up! Watching him reconciling how he feels about Luke and trying to keep his past and current selves separate when he’s constantly being triggered by the antagonist is also really neat to read.


PLOT: The element of mystery drives the plot to this one. Something is changing and there’s a reason that Luke is specially selected (by whom? How?) to be marked (guarded) by a gargoyle, something that hasn’t happened in decades. Attacks and strange occurrences all seeming to center around Luke and the development of intriguing powers kept me turning the page to see what exactly was the giant secret. A moderately-paced plot with plenty of action/fight scenes, which makes me a happy reader!


EMOTIONAL INTENSITY: There is no good/bad here. Sometimes I just want a low-investment entertainment read whereas other times a high-stakes 'I need a therapist to recover' is what I need.

2 out of 5/low. While it’s possible this will pick up later in the series, for now it’s an easier introduction into a new world.


CATHARTIC FULFILLMENT: Is the emotional journey worth it? Do I finish this book feeling that I've crested the wave of the climactic moment and everything has been settled, leaving me settled and fulfilled?

75%. This book ends with quite a bit unresolved (although the main mystery about whats happening with Luke specifically is answered). That being said, the book ends with a partial cliffhanger (in my opinion) and it felt like it ended too quickly. Thankfully though, the ending wasn’t frustrating, so ultimately this is a plus!

[Seraphia Bunny · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stone Temptation is the first book in the Gargoyle Marked series, and this urban fantasy novel is going to keep you page-turning to the end.
Luke Garland is a human on a mission. His brother lost his protection and had his soul stripped away by a monster. Now? He’s an immortal terror. Locked away for his and the public’s own good. There is no cure for what afflicts him, and death? Not an option. So, Luke, a thief is on a quest to find a way through using magic in the hopes of creating an artifact or cure.
What Luke has no idea of is that something big is coming. A big change is about to impact his life and it all will stem from the secret of his newest gift. Gargoyle Asher is going to hear a call, but he’s not going to know who or where it’s coming from. But when it all begins to come together, a much bigger picture begins to fall into place. Luke is the key to it all.
Luke is a fun and engaging character. His heart is in the right place, but he’s a touch mixed up with the wrong gargoyle, Seth. Seth is a complete tool, and the deeper you delve into this story, the more you’ll see that for yourself. The good news is that you get to watch Luke and Asher’s relationship grow and develop. Granted, things do move pretty quickly, but you get the sense of “fated mate” vibes, so it works.
The magic aspect of this book is really interesting. You have motes floating around that can either “grant” you more magic, or they can create monsters. To be honest, some of the monster combinations this author comes up with...they’re pretty funny. Well, they are to us, anyways. We’re sure that you’ll find them just as entertaining. These monsters have one track minds, but they help keep the story interesting while bringing a touch of humor.
Be prepared for some serious secrets that will come to light throughout this story. You’ll definitely be excited to find out what happens next when book two comes.
5 out of 5 stars

[David Wickham · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Richard is back! His current series with the zombies isn't my favorite-sorry. This is the first book in a new series with no zombies, but with gargoyles as the supernaturals. I don't think I've ever read anything with gargoyles as the main supes. He sets them up as the overlords really well.

This earth has magical motes floating around that can create all sorts of nasty monsters, but can also give humans limited magical powers. The gargoyles had invaded as the good guys to take care of them mote. Of course, not all them are actually good. We have Seth, who is "weaver". He oversees an area where one of our MCs, Luke, lives. Seth puts on a good front. Luke is human, but has managed to obtain the power of invisibility through the ingestion of some of the motes. Humans are supposed to register any powers they obtain with the gargoyle authorities. Luke didn't and Seth lets Luke know that he found out.

This sets in motion Luke meeting gargoyle knight Asher and Asher accidentally marking Luke as his own. Read the book because you'll love it just like I did. Richard is back to his old self with this book. He uses his characters like hellhound chew toys. This is the first in a series. No telling who lives and who dies, but knowing him, we get a happy ending. It's always a rough journey with him though, but the ending is always worth it.

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stone Temptation by Richard Amos is book one in the Gargoyle Marked Series. I was so excited when I read this book blurb, it just sounded so good. Plus I’m a fan of this author’s writing and is a go to for my M/M romance with paranormal fix. I flew through this book, I couldn’t put it down. I finished it in about a day. I loved the characters but especially Luke, and how he just wanted to find his brother. Then there’s Asher, I don’t even have words for him but in the best way. The characters are some of my favorite, I really like all their personalities. Every chapter just kept me interested, it had action, mystery, intrigue and twists. I definitely connected with this story. The writing was great while the plot moved at a steady and consistent pace. I enjoyed the worldbuilding so far and can’t wait to see it expand with the rest of the series. I will mention this book isn’t a standalone and I’m anxiously awaiting the next book in the series. Overall I found this to be a exciting book that just had so much life to it. I highly recommend reading if you love a good paranormal story. Plus there’s Gargoyles which is a win in my book. Highly recommend it! Two thumbs up from me.

Final review:
5 out of 5 stars

[Anne Barwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this first in a new series. The world building is fabulous, the characters not always exactly what they seem to be, and there are a lot of twists along the way. The cliffhanger at the end of this one isn’t as bad as I’d expect from this author, but as it’s only book 1, I’m sure he’ll make up for it in later books.

I loved the set up with motes and monsters and humans being protected by gargoyles. I liked that Asher wasn’t what I expected, with his love of crystals, calm, and colour. He’s not your stereotypical gargoyle. Luke is an interesting character. I loved the twists about him, and his guilt over Finn. Luke and Asher’s relationship is sweet. I liked all the denial going on.

The friendships are a highlight of the story. I love the mystery of the chimera and the humans who ride them, and curious to see how everything plays out. Seth is a horrible, self-entitled, narcissistic piece of work who has been keeping way too many secrets. I hope he gets what he deserves by the end of the story.

I also love the small-town English coastal setting, complete with lighthouse. It adds to the atmosphere of the story. One of the things I love about this author’s books are that they’re often not set in places you see a lot of in this genre.

Waiting for book 2 now.

[Ines · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every single time this author amazes me with the path his fantasy takes him on... I've read plenty of paranormal romances and after a while they tend to blend together, but this author's work always manages to stand out in the crowd. The worldbuilding is 'out of this world', with a combination of magic and monsters I never could have been able to imagine myself. I loved exploring the world he built in this first book, although I'll admit I'm happy I'm only exploring it by reading about it.

Still, this book doesn't feel dark, maybe because of the loving relationship development between Luke and Asher. The dynamic between the both of them reminds me a little of the MM dynamic in the "Curse of Dawn" series, although some revelations towards the end of the book make it sound like these two have some special hurdles to conquer. On top of that, there are plenty of side characters where I'm not sure who's good or bad, and what secrets they are keeping from our two main characters.

I'm definitely fascinated by this storyline, and already looking forward to the second book in the series!

[Yunga2013 · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's always exciting to start a new series, especially if it's the series of this author. I know that a new skillfully crafted world is waiting for me to indulge as well as lots of action and a steamy romance. Although the worlds that this author creates are not safe and happy places, quite the opposite, in fact... I'm always fascinated. This one didn't disappoint either. It's full of magic, monsters and ... sexy protectors - gargoyles. Gargoyles are amazing in real life. I can look at those incredible creatures for hours. And here, there is a sexy gargoyle with the heart of gold and a fascination of natural stones... Asher becomes a protector for Luke, who is a cute mixologist with a mystery surrounding him. The story takes a fast pace, and we get immersed into this new world where unknown danger is looming over Luke and the whole world and where our guys are scared but committed to find the answers and get their HEA. But they still have a long way to go... I loved book 1, I loved that one of the MCs is a gargoyle, and I can't wait for the story to continue. Highly recommend the book, especially for fantasy fans. It's a real treat.

[Paula Sabol (Never Choose Fantasy) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stone Temptation by Richard Amos is a paranormal romance. This book follows Luke as he deals with the loss of his brother’s soul to monsters,his own changing powers, and his interactions with the Gargoyles that have come to their realm to help protect them from the monsters.  Asher is a gargoyle that craves something new and he finds this in Luke as he marks him and becomes his bodyguard. As Luke begins to see visions, the gargoyles believe it has to do with a ring left in their care by the King.  As Luke and Asher try to discover the threat they begin to see changes in the monsters.  Will Asher be able to save Luke from the threat before it's too late.

  I really enjoyed this book.  It's a medium burn with a few pretty spicy scenes.  The world-building is amazing.  There are so many twists and turn with a crazy cliffhanger to top it off. It's fast paced and a perfect quick bringe read.  Has some great characters that I loved and hated!  

   If you enjoy MM paranormal romances that are based in alternate realities you'll enjoy this one.  It's got humans with powers, Gargoyles, magic, monster, action, and  secrets making it an exciting read that's hard to put down.

[Lene Blackthorn · Rating 4 out of 5]

The opening book in this series follows Luke, a human with unregistered invisibility ability, searching for any potential way to get his brother Finn back. His usual life, mundane though filled by everyday sights of monsters against which the gargoyles provide protection, turns around too fast when he is blackmailed into stealing a strange ring, becomes a gargoyle mark, and his life gets deeply connected with his new protector - Asher.
I found it almost funny how the monsters were popping up randomly, trying every trick to convince humans to give up protection, and the characters just brushed them off like regular annoying bugs. Interesting world building to say the least, and I have a certain soft spot for gargoyles too. Most interesting are the characters, though, especially those with personalities and motives deep into the gray, morally obscure scale - like Seth. There are lots of secrets and mysteries left uncovered and the cliffhanger is also a big bomb - so let's see what comes next.

[Daniele Stephenson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a unique story. I absolutely loved it. In this world there are tiny particles called motes and they have changed the world and brought about nightmares that like to attack humans and these motes have also gave some humans magical abilities. This has brought in gargoyles from their home world to protect the humans. This is where we meet Luke the human and Asher the gargoyle. Luke is living his life trying to find a way to save his brother Finn who he lost 3 years before in a monster attack. Luke and Asher meet by chance and form a bond with Asher marking Luke and. Ow he is tied to him as his protector till they figure out what is happening.
I love gargoyle stories and just love the twist on this one. This is my second series I have read with this author and love his style. I’m excited to see what happens in our next book as we were left with that big cliffhanger of a reveal and now I want to see what is going to happen to Luke and Asher and how this all ties together. I hope things work out and that Luke can get his brother back

[Azdude · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Richard Amos book that I just couildn't put it down. I read a lot of fantasy novels, but very few authors can create characters with the feels of those like Luke and Asher. A (hopefully) love story between a human and one of the Gargoyle knights who help govern and protect earth. You'll have to discover that dynamic by reading the book. Luke is a human bearing the pain of his brother's disappearance. Asher bears the pain of lonliness and co-worker abrasiveness. Amos creates characters with so much heart, vitality and strength that you can't help but be drawn in. This is book 1 in a series - and in true Richard Amos fashion, he leaves you with an ending that makes you wish the release date for book 2 was yesterday. But read this one now - because, like me, you'll want to reread a few times.

[Jeanette Waters · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again, Richard Amos gives us another wonderful vision of a paranormal world, set in a little town on the English coast. Luke is a bartender/thief barely able to get through a day without the guilt of his brother Finn's loss of humanity. Asher is a gargoyle, the first in a long time to receive a human's psychic call of "Help".
My problem with Amos' books is that they're too darn short. At twice the length, I think I'd have this complaint. His worldbuilding is so great, his characters come alive off the page. And then there's the cliffhangers. Arghhh. He constantly plays us on the good guy/villain issue. Just when you dislike a character, you discover that they're really just a complex, misunderstood antihero.
Also, if I never again read "pissed in the cereal", it'll be too soon.
I received an advanced copy of this book and this is my review.

[Ashley Clark · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you enjoy Gargoyle and human romance then this one’s for you. It’s also an MM paranormal romance. You also have weird creatures being made. If your a human you are protected from the monsters by the gargoyles. You might also have powers. If your a gargoyle it’s your job to fight the lobsters and save the humans. If you’re a monster then it’s your job to try and get the humans to drop their protection. Luke is a human with powers trying to save his brother. Asher is a gargoyle fighting monsters and saving humans. The two meet and Luke becomes Asher’s marked. Asher is to protect Luke no matter what. The monsters keep attacking Luke. Now it’s up to them and some friends to figure out what the monsters want with Luke. Luke and Asher are fighting the call of the mark. Will they give in? Will they find out what is going on with the monsters and Luke? Can’t wait for book 2.

[Denise · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found Stone Temptation to be very exhilarating to read, the romance to be very hot and the Characters to be amazing. I loved reading Stone Temptation.
Luke is a human that has a special talent for being a Mixologist and a couple of magical talents although there is more to Luke then we know as he is very powerful.
Seth is a male Weaver Gargoyle... which means he can weave magic and get people to do his bidding.
I love Maren because she is a caring Mermaid but not like your every day mermaid. She is very protective with Luke.
Asher is a Gargoyle Knight and Luke's Bodyguard after an incident that happened at a Gargoyle Party put on by Carissa. Asher has strong feelings for Luke too.
So, if you love Mystery, Romance, Protective Gargoyles and amazing Mixologists then this book is for you.

[Cynthia M Brow · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stone Temptation is the first book in the new Gargoyle Marked series by Richard Amos. This series is going to be amazing if the first book is any indication. This is Luke a human with a power he has hidden from everyone and Asher a gargoyle who marks Luke and becomes his bodyguard. I love the new take on gargoyles that Richard Amos does in this story. I couldn't put the book down once I started it as I needed to know what would happen next. Richard Amos does these types of books with a plot that goes through multiple books so so well. I love the characters and world building he does. I can't wait for the next book in the series. Please remember that the story will continue in the next book. I would definitely recommend this book as a 5 star read.

[Julorie Siefert · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the first new Gargoyle Marked Series, it set the scene for a story line that keeps you on your toes. All Luke wanted was to rescue his brother Finn from a monster's curse. Luke has gain a special gift that he is using to try and help his brother. He has not registered it and he is caught out by Seth. Seth agrees not to report him if he would do one little favor for him. Wow the little favor leads him in to the arms of Asher and Asher marks Luke. Thus because a wild ride and many unusual happenings. What changes will Luke go through? Is he good or bad? Is there a chance of a relationship for Asher and Luke? Where is the king? What does the ring have to do with everything? A great read and beginning I will be watching for the next book!

[Book Life With Jen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Richard has done it again with Stone Temptation, the first book in the Gargoyle Marked series. No one can write a post apocalyptic, monster loving MM romance like Amos and this one is no exception!! And trust me if you’re a fan of gargoyles and insta connections—then needless to say, you need this one! ;)

This story finds our MC Luke on a mission to find and save his brother, but finds so much more with Asher—a gargoyle knight that accidentally marks him. What follows is a must read story that will keep you on your toes till the end…and then leaves you dangling off a cliff at the end, begging mercilessly for more! Amos is a master at world building and I love how in depth and creative he is as he magically weaves his stories together. This is a definite must read!

[Lexi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the premise of the story and it more than lived up to it. In this world there is magic brought to it and some people have been changed along with monster being real. Luke the human and Asher The gargoyle end up bound together and Asher is now protecting Luke. They need to figure out what’s going on. Luke is also trying to find a way to save his brother he lost three years ago in an attack. These guys are definitely interesting together. I always love protective Gargoyled which Asher definitely is. I loved the world building so much. I can’t wait to see what else is going to happen. Get ready for lots of intense action and adventure which you won’t be able to put down from the moment it starts.

[Penny · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve enjoyed this author’s writing for a while, and I was excited to read this new series-starter by him. I was immediately drawn into the story, and what a story it is. Not only is it unique, but it’s also entertaining. Gargoyles? Yes, please. Poor Luke is just beside himself missing his brother, and he wants to get him back. Add in some interesting motes, involuntary markings, and some action-packed scenes, this is a wonderful book. I can’t wait to see what’s in store with Carissa, Luke, Asher, and Seth (ugh!). Highly recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.

[Joy Lynch · Rating 5 out of 5]

Richard gives us a fantastic beginning to the new Gargoyle Marked series! The story of Luke and Asher begins with Luke going to steal magic to try to save his brother Finn. It goes sideways and he barely escapes only to have the gargoyle, Seth, blackmail him into stealing a ring from the gargoyle leader in London. This leads to him being marked by Asher and the beginning of the crazy wild ride on the way to a blindside of a cliffhanger. Dive into this wonderfully written book with complex characters and plot twists that keep you guessing and turning pages throughout. I loved reading this story and highly recommend it. Don't miss out on this book!!

[Demetra Roussakis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great start to a new series featuring Luke and Asher. Luke is human who lived in a world of gargoyle protectors. For three years he has been trying to find a way of saving his brother. When the weaver, Seth, lets him know that he is aware of his invisibility, he tells Luke he needs to steal a ring the night of a grand ball. Asher is a gargoyle knight who is on rotation on the earthly plane. At the ball he meets Luke who he is instantly smitten. When monsters attack the tower, Asher saves Luke and marks him to be his protector. This is the start of the story of how he find out a little more of Luke backstory and why Seth is in his life. I cannot wait to read more of their story.

[Juniper · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story offers plenty of compelling elements: there's some fascinating world building (magic, intrigue, danger, touches of the dystopian, and, of course, gargoyles), some fascinating characters (Luke and Asher are each deeply interesting, as is their dynamic together, plus there are some intriguing supporting characters as well), and the groundwork for what feels like it's going to be a saga of a larger narrative-- it's easy to get caught up in the events of this book alone, and having finished it I definitely want to see more of both world and characters. 4.5 stars.

*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

[Naku · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stone Temptation is book one in the Gargoyle Marked Series by Richard Amos. This book follows Luke a thief by necessity who is an anxiety riddled mess willing to do anything to find a way to save his brother, and Archer the adventure craving gargoyle knight who is duty bound to protect him.

This book was thoroughly enjoyable and in true Richard fashion was full of wit, intrigue and twists. I absolutely loved the chemistry between Luke and Archer and cannot wait to see what secrets come to light in the next book. If you love gargoyles, sassy twinks, adorable himbos and friends that will shank a monster for you, definitely check out this book.

[Emma · Rating 4 out of 5]

Took a little while for me to really get into the story. It was an interesting read for sure. I really enjoyed some of the funnier scenes, I loved the odd action and spucet scenes the most.

It was a little confusing a times, and still habe more questions than amswers but it has made me curious to find out more in book 2. The plot twists i never saw coming drew me in. And we only just started to discover more about our powerful human Luke. Is he their saviour or their down fall. Could go either way if they don't tred carefully.

There were some lovable and interesting characters in this book. Was worth the read and I can't wait for book 2!

[Katelyn Livezey · Rating 5 out of 5]

MM
Gargoyle/Human

Our lovely little human, Luke, has an unregistered invisibility ability and is searching for any potential way to get his brother Finn back. Monsters are a thing and gargoyles provide protection. Just an everyday affair,… Well poor Luke gets blackmailed into stealing a strange ring, becomes a gargoyle mark, and his life gets deeply connected with his new protector - Asher. They try to keep their distance from each other as much as possible, but the chemistry between them is brewing.

There are a lot of secrets and mysteries left uncovered and the cliffhanger is…. A cliffhanger. So hang in there… I can’t wait to read the next book!