Ensnared by the Stone Freak

Twisted Carnival

by Vala Stone

At the Twisted Carnival, the ‘Stone Freak’ can turn anyone to stone—but when he meets her, she’s the one who stops him in his tracks.

Camryn
Being called the ‘Ice Queen’ stings, but after my ex shattered my trust, keeping my distance feels safer. When my best friend drags me to the Twisted Carnival, I expect a night of cheap thrills—not a collision with the impossible.

The moment I meet the Stone Freak’s gaze in the middle of the ring, my world tilts. Heat ignites, shattering the walls I built. Halvard is powerful, mesmerizing… dangerous. But for the first time in forever, I want to take a risk.

Forget contracts and a stalker ex—I’m about to embark on the wildest adventure of my life. And it begins with him.

Halvard
My gift was once a blessing. Now it’s a curse. My gaze turns flesh to stone, making me a monster in the eyes of the world. The Twisted Carnival is the only place I belong—until a Seer’s prophecy changes everything.

Then I see her. Camryn. My mate. And suddenly, nothing else matters.

I will seduce her. I will claim her. I will show her that a life with a Stone Freak is the greatest adventure of all.

But when her past comes hunting, I’ll do more than fight—I’ll unleash the beast within. No warlock, no shadow, no force in this world will take her from me.

Let them try.

This standalone novella is part of the multi-author Twisted Carnival series. It features a passionate half-gargoyle, half-basilisk 'Stone Freak,' a pet boar named Hogzy, a lawyer with a stalker, and a guaranteed steamy HEA.

Genres: Paranormal, Monsters, Novella, Paranormal Romance, Romance, Fantasy

73 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 28, 2025

About the author

Vala Stone is a passionate storyteller who weaves together romance and the supernatural in her enthralling paranormal romance novels. When she’s not writing, she enjoys crocheting and binge-watching her favorite shows like Supernatural. Vala lives in a quaint, little town with her loving family and a mischievous tortoise cat, whom she adopted as a stray.

You can check out her website: https://www.valastone.ink
Or find her on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/valastoneaut...

Reviews

[Susie]

We Want More!!

So, we have two drastically different people, meeting in colourful circumstances, but neither are who they seem from the outset.

We have Camryn “Cammy” Mayfield, a top-tier lawyer, who’s a workaholic but secretly fed up with her job.

Then we have Halvard the “Stone Freak”; no surname, but has Gargoyle* lineage.

And with a host of side characters, including a Seer, Cammy's friend who she doesn’t know is a Siren, a Warlock stalker ex, and the absolutely fabulously wonderful and cute Wild Boar Hogzy!

So, Halvard is cursed to turn everyone he gazes upon to stone. Yet he’s told that his curse will be lifted with one glance. He doesn’t believe it one bit but, considering who the two main characters are, we know who it has to be... And she pushes his belief to the limit, just as he pushes hers, she having never known that magical creatures really existed.

And, with them together, she finally has the courage to face up to her stalker ex, whose powers have made him overly obsessive and on the edge of sanity.

I suppose there’s a little bit of adventure in here (perhaps I don’t see it completely so, as I’m so used to fantasy). But it’s romance with an edge of danger, really, overcoming themselves plus adversity, with a little nudge and help now and then.

Of course, the adult part was fun, too, and once they started they had to push all the way... But it felt a little unfinished, missing a couple of descriptors, going from all guns blazing, to just... Ending. I expected as much fire to end the second scene as the first.

Additional notes:
* Gargoyles are a pretty specific type of Grotesque, Grotesques being the statues you find on ancient buildings, and Gargoyles being the water features found at the end of guttering (think “gargle”, which has the same root). It’s a common misconception, so I thought it best to educate everyone at the same time.

All that aside, it took me time in the beginning to get used to the author’s voice but, once I had, the words just flew by! I was fully entranced and captivated, apart from the couple of niggles mentioned above, but I still thoroughly enjoyed it. Ms. Stone has a new fan.

Final rating: ★★★★☆ – Really liked

*I received a free digital ARC via the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.*

[Dru]

⭐️⭐️.5
🌶🌶 (one scene at the end and very short)
🔥🔥

When the circus comes into town, Cammy is forced to go by her best friend, since she has been a hermit due to working overtime at the law firm. She didn't expect to run into a tall handsome Stone Freak that sets her on fire. Could she fit into his life in the circus? Or will she have to let him go, while she stays to help her dad with the firm?

Halvard was getting tired of always turning people to stone. Once he found his mate, his curse would be broken. Well, when he sees Cammy in the stands, what does he do? Makes her come down and be a volunteer of course. Can he convince her to give up a life of luxury to join the circus with him? Or will he not be enough for her to leave her family and friends behind?

The book had some good moments, but I think overall it may have been trying to do too much within the pages it allowed. I really wanted to know the backstory of the ex-boyfriend...and we never really get one in the book. Something happened with Cammy and her ex, and it was never elaborated on, which is frustrating because I wanted to know why Cammy doesn't like him.

I think both MC's were written well overall, and I would have liked to see their relationship take the main stage in this book honestly. I would rather read the focus about them, and less overall plot but more character depth with more spice (can always add more spice). I became more invested of the characters than I did about the whole entire story.

Also, what is a monster book without decent şmüt? I really wanted more from this book in the spice department. There is one full scene and it is rushed. It felt so rushed that even the build up to it fell flat. I wish the author did less with the plot, and did more with the şmüt to give it more detail and length. Something definitely can be more developed in that department.

⟣Tropes⟢
✅ Obsessive/JP MMC
✅ Fated Mates
✅ Dual POV’s (first person)
✅ Insta-Love
✅ OM drama (no cheating, just crazy ex)
✅ FMC not Virgin
✅ MINE
✅ HEA

***I was given this as an ARC for free and writing a review voluntary. All opinions are my own.***

[Lynn_G]

Attorney Camryn is invited out by her bestie to an alternative carnival/circus whose performers all seem to have some extrahuman qualities. When a smoking hot hulk of a man wearing only snug leather pants and boots enters the ring in front of them, asking for her assistance, Camryn is captured by his presence and the night becomes a whole lot more than she’d hoped for.

Gargoyle Halvard hasn’t ever been able to make direct prolonged eye contact with humans without temporarily immobilizing them - or turning them to stone, if you will. Camryn, however, seems immune to the danger, and every one of his instincts is screaming that she’s his mate.

When her possessive ex tries to get between them, Halvard can’t help but default into protector mode. Camryn, however, is no shrinking violet, and she’s had enough of her ex boyfriend’s fixation on her, and she’s not about to let him ruin what she and Halvard could have together.

This was a short, steamy instalove paranormal read that paints just a corner of a larger mosaic that is the Twisted Carnival world. I look forward to subsequent volumes and other characters’ stories.

I received an advance reader copy from the author and booksirens, and I’m sharing my honest thoughts.

[Cami♡]

I simply love the Fated Mates trope. It never fails, even though it was a super short novel, I really liked it, but I would have liked there to have been more development, but I understand that it wasn't very possible due to the size of the book. I'm really looking forward to the next book in the series. Read it, it's really good.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Mackenzie Janssen]

I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This in no way impacted my opinions.

I had high hopes for ‘Ensnared by the Stone Freak’, but unfortunately, it didn’t quite deliver what I was looking for. While the premise was intriguing, the execution fell a bit flat, and I found myself wanting more in terms of depth, tension, and engagement.

Plot: ★★☆☆☆
The idea behind this story had potential, but it didn’t quite live up to my expectations. I was hoping for a darker, more intense experience with high stakes and gripping tension, but instead, the mystery and intrigue felt lacking. The pacing was uneven, and the romance, while present, didn’t have the depth or intensity I was craving. Even the spice, which could have elevated the story, was fairly mild and underwhelming.

Character: ★★☆☆☆
The characters didn’t feel fully developed, and their relationship seemed to be the only defining aspect of their personalities. I wanted to see more growth, individual struggles, and chemistry between them, but instead, they felt one-dimensional. I never truly connected with them or felt invested in their journey.

Setting: ★★★☆☆
The Twisted Carnival setting is the strongest aspect of the book. It has an eerie, intriguing vibe that could have been explored even further. I loved the idea of a carnival with a dark, supernatural twist, but I wish the world-building had been more immersive and detailed.

Engagement: ★★☆☆☆
I struggled to stay engaged with this one. The lack of strong tension or stakes made it easy to put down, and I found myself pushing through rather than eagerly turning the pages. I kept waiting for that moment when everything would hook me in, but it never quite came.

Readability: ★★★★☆
The writing itself is smooth and easy to follow, which is a plus. The descriptions were decent, and the dialogue flowed well. If the story had been stronger, the readability would have made it a much more enjoyable experience.

Enjoyment: ★★★☆☆
Despite my issues with the plot and characters, I didn’t completely dislike the book. There were elements of the setting that intrigued me, and I did appreciate some aspects of the romance. However, it just didn’t fully capture my interest the way I had hoped.

While the Twisted Carnival setting is intriguing, the plot and characters didn’t quite deliver for me. If you’re looking for something quick and easy to read with a light paranormal romance, you might enjoy ‘Ensnared by the Stone Freak’ more than I did. However, if you’re hoping for deep tension, intense chemistry, or rich storytelling, this one might not be the best fit.

[Nisha]

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

This book had me hooked from the jump with its vibes and characters that actually make you feel something. Camryn, our main girl, is such a vibe—confident, knows her worth, and isn’t here to settle for less. That “Ice Queen” label? Please. She just has standards, and I love that for her. I was instantly rooting for her.

The energy between her and Halvard? Electric. Their first interaction at the carnival had me giggling, blushing, and just fully invested. The way their connection builds is such a chef’s kiss—it never feels rushed or forced. And can we talk about Halvard? Protective, mysterious, AND respectful? Ugh, he had me swooning. His little pet boar, Hogzy, was also a delightful bonus.

The book really shines with its humor and magical elements. There were moments that had me laughing out loud (boar + mud = chaos in the best way), but also some darker twists that kept me on edge. The banter, the protective energy, the slow reveal of powers—it was giving everything I needed.

Lis, the bestie, was such a standout character too. Loved how calm and collected she was, but still ride-or-die. I won’t spoil anything, but her reveal? Whew, didn’t see that coming but it made so much sense.

Now, why 3 stars instead of 5? I think the world-building could’ve used a bit more depth. There were hints of a really rich magical universe, but sometimes it felt like we were skating on the surface. I wanted more—more backstory, more clarity about how the powers work, and more time with some side characters who felt interesting but underused.

Also, some transitions between scenes felt a little abrupt, especially when it came to emotional moments or action scenes. Just a bit more buildup would’ve made those moments hit harder.

That said, the chemistry, the sass, the magic, the drama—it all worked. I really enjoyed the ride, and I’m excited to see what this author does next!

[Francesca]

Ensnared By The Stone Freak - Twisted Carnival Series -  By - Vala Stone

This is the first book that I have read by this new to me author and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was a romantic read set in a supernatural environment. Filled with the mythical, mystical and magical, seers, warlocks, sirens and our sexy gargoyle Halvard to name but a few! Halvard is a gargoyle suffering with being cursed. He finds himself travelling around working for the Twisted Carnival putting on shows for visitors every night. A place like no other that draws the spectators in and bewitches them with the spectacular. He thought that was what his life would be, going from place to place him and his best friend Hogzy who is just brilliant as a character, a scene stealer for sure lol. However the main story is between Camryn "Cammy" Mayfield a lawyer trying to get her life back on track after breaking up with her last boyfriend Thorne, who is more that meets the eye. Cammy goes to see the Carnival with her best friend Lis and gets more that she could of ever hoped for. One look at the delicious Halvard and her heart is smitten, he is as affected as she is however Thorne is desperately unimpressed with their attraction and tries to ruin everything. He should know though that when a gargoyle finds his mate nothing will stop him from protecting and claiming her no matter what. It was a good story, I enjoyed the characters and the supernatural elements. I just wished it was a longer story as it all progressed quite quickly. I know with fated mates it is a case of when you know, you know. I just thought it could of been drawn out more. Overall it was an enjoyable read and I look forward to reading more about the members of the Twisted Carnival. Happy Reading. Please note that I was given an arc of this book for my honest review which is exactly what I have given.
4 out of 5 stars.

[Emily Pennington]

Camryn and Halvard’s Story . . .

Camryn is a workaholic lawyer whose best friend Lis insists she go to the spooky Twisted Carnival with her. Ever since her ex-boyfriend Thorne made her doubt everyone, work became the best way to block out anything that might hurt her. She expects even Lis will get tired of her and walk out on her one day. She still refuses to date anyone and has been labeled as “Ice Queen”. But it doesn’t matter… she just feels numb.

Halvard, half-gargoyle, half-basilisk, is getting similar taunting from Freddy at the carnival saying he needs to find a woman. Visitors think the carnival performers are giving them illusions and trickery, but they are actually the “real deal”. It’s not fake at all. Turning flesh to stone makes him a monster to outsiders, even though it only lasts a terrifying minute. Then Sally the fortune teller moved up beside him and told him tonight was the night… a gaze is all it takes. Then she walked away with no further explanation. Hogzy, the carnival’s pet boar, came over and rubbed against his leg to be scratched behind the ear while he tried to figure out what Sally had meant. When he meets Camryn at his performance, the prophecy made sense. Camryn is not affected by his transforming gaze! She is his mate, and they are both drawn to each other! Unfortunately, her stalker ex decides to cause trouble. Will he scare her away from the handsome performer? Or will she finally have a reason to stand up for herself? As Halvard walked Lis and Camryn to their car, Lis, whom he knew was a Siren, told him that she thought Throne was a warlock, and Halvard nodded since he had already considered that. Was a fight coming soon? Or would Thorne have enough sense to leave them alone now?

[Vicki]

4.5 stars!

This is the second book in the author’s Twisted Circus series and features Halvard, the Stone Freak, one of the attractions at the Twisted Circus; he could turn himself into stone at will or others into stone temporarily with the removal of his sunglasses if their eyes met. Those sunglasses were the only thing that protected others but he longed for the curse to be broken so they were no longer necessary.

Cammy couldn’t say no to her best friend when she wanted to go to the circus that everyone in town had been talking about but she never expected the feelings she experienced when she first saw the man they called the Stone Freak—or the feelings, part of which was protective—he seemed to feel for her.

This was a super short little PNR read with an obsessed semi-gargoyle, a human completely unaware of the supernatural world around her, an eerie circus that seemed to thrive on the fears of its patrons, a vindictive shadow golem and the most adorable fat little boar named Hogzy. There wasn’t a whole lot of steam involved but what there was, was nice and best of all, there was no drama or third act breakup. PNR lovers are sure to love it as well as those who love their MMCs obsessed and falling hard and fast and an FMC who recognizes her mate without all the do I, don’t I back and forth (that gets on my nerves!). I can’t honestly say I’ll ever read it again but I definitely enjoyed it as a little bit of a break from the longer, slow burn, books I’ve been reading and recommend it to others. 4.5 stars!

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

[Jennifer D]

This short paranormal romance was sooooo gooood!!!!

Vala Stone is new to me but I’ll def be looking for more from her🤗🤗🤗

Camryn is a corporate lawyer coming off a bad relationship, only she vowed to herself she would never be like her own father, a workaholic, and now she seems to be following his footsteps, hiding from life in her office and boring work.

Her best friend Liz convinces her to go out to the new carnival in town that everybody is talking about, just a girls night out…. But what happens when her ex shows up ready to make trouble??? She feels like her life may not ever be the same again after tonight…

Halvard is feeling down tonight as he gets ready for the show to start, his curse is wearing on him. He’s unable to turn his powers on and off anymore, they’re just stuck on…. But the seer of the show gives him a cryptic message just before the show starts… “Tonight is the night. Remember that. A gaze is all it takes.”

Omg this book is so awesome!!! Cammie is feeling awful since she broke up with her ex, and nobody knows the half of it, she feels broken, the nickname “Ice Queen” that everybody at work is calling her because she won’t date because is more fitting than anybody knows…and the few times she has tried to go on a date her ex has showed up…ugh…

The writing is amazing, I really loved this book…Cammie really blossoms…. And the chemistry that her and Halvard have is perfectly steamy.

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

[Dionne Muller]

Ensnared by the Stone Freak, a standalone novella from the multi-author Twisted Carnival series by Vala Stone, is an entertaining quick read that delivers an intriguing premise.

The story follows Camryn Mayfield, an ambitious and career-driven lawyer who finds herself dealing with the unwanted advances of an ex-boyfriend turned stalker who refuses to accept that their relationship is over. As if Camryn's life wasn't complicated enough, she soon crosses paths with Halvard, a mysterious figure known as the Stone Freak, who has lost control over his supernatural ability to turn people into stone with a mere glance.

The novella explores the unlikely connection that forms between Camryn and Halvard, hinting at a prophecy from a seer that could tie their fates together. While the shorter format of the novella doesn't allow for extensive worldbuilding or in-depth character development, the author still manages to craft an engaging story that moves at a brisk pace, keeping readers turning the pages to see how Camryn and Halvard's stories intertwine and unfold.

If you're looking for a fast-paced paranormal romance with a unique premise and don't mind the constraints of the novella format, Ensnared by the Stone Freak offers an enjoyable escape into a world where supernatural abilities and human struggles collide.

[Nora Ellen (Nbbookery)]

When Cammy's friend drags her to a freak show carnival, the last thing she expects is to be drawn in by one of the performers. Halvard has been doing the carnival circuit so long it's all a blur until he catches the eye of a stunning woman. Desperate for more, he gets Cammy on stage as his volunteer, and after she knicks her finger, one taste of her blood reveals she's his mate. What kind of future can there be between an ice queen lawyer and a traveling sideshow performer that can turn people to stone? They're about to find out.

The plot was fun, and honestly, for as much as the author crammed into the 76 pages, I enjoyed it. It just felt very rushed. Lots of foreshadowing and some build-up for what seemed like a lackluster conclusion. There's barely any interaction with any characters besides the two MCs, with the FMC's best friend getting a brief glance of spotlight with little explanation and only one or two lines from the main antagonist. I would have loved to explore more of the MMC's hybrid gargoyle/basilisk nature or the connection between our MCs. I'd even settle for a little more of the carnival itself. This author has written some great other works, so I still recommend them. Just not this one if you're looking for a deep escape.

[Alicia Walton]

When I read half-gargoyle, half-basilisk that turns everyone to stone and then he meets his soul mate, I had so many questions and had to read this book. I was intrigued from the very beginning. I have never read a book that featured a twisted carnival and I thoroughly enjoyed every minute. For a novella this had great world building. It left me wanting to know if this was a stand alone or if there would be more to this series. I have never read this author but will be looking up more of her work. These characters were very well written. I felt all the emotions and connection between all the characters. I would have loved it more if it was a full book with all the elements of the story but it was still a fantastic read for a short book. Halvard was so intense and sweet and Cammy was so intrigued by everything it flowed nicely. Then you add in the comic relief of a pet boar named Hogzy it made it so much better. I was surprise and intrigued but her ex as well. This was the whole package. This was a great read with a HEA and I recommend all to try this book.

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

[kymagirl]

Camryn (h) has spent years keeping her head down, her heart locked away, and her past buried beneath long work hours. Dubbed the "Ice Queen," she's convinced herself that love isn't worth the risk, especially after escaping her controlling ex, Thorne. But when her best friend drags her to a strange traveling carnival, everything changes. Halvard (H) isn't just a performer with a dangerous act—he's something else entirely. A man who turns to stone, a man whose gaze can petrify, a man who has spent a lifetime keeping his distance from others. Until Camryn. The moment she steps into his world, she defies everything he thought he knew about himself. She's immune to his curse. She's something impossible. Their attraction is dangerous, their connection undeniable, but Camryn's past refuses to let go. She finds herself caught in a battle of magic, obsession, and power, forcing Halvard and Camryn to fight together against dark forces for the future they want. A steamy paranormal romance where curses can be shattered, but some bonds are unbreakable, exploring love, danger, and destiny. Plus he has a pet boar, Hogzy.

[Amy]

ARC Review:

Being a novella, this was a very quick and easy read.

Halvard was a very interesting character to me. His ability to turn people to stone really caught my attention. At first I wasn't sure how this would come into play with the premise of the story but it worked. And it worked well. Camryn's character was a little bland for me. She's a lawyer who's ex is still obsessed with her. We don't really get too much description on either of the main characters.

However, I really liked some of the side characters, Hogzy for example. I thought that Halvards pet pig, Hogzy, added humor and further interest to this book.

To me, the plot in this book felt all over the place and elements seemed to come out of nowhere. The whole 'fated mates' thing isn't really explained other than Halvard knows it and Camryn fells an unnatural pull towards Halvard that makes her feel safe.

I did very much enjoy this book and it did get a couple laughs out of me.

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

[Ellie (On a break, mostly rereading)]

Ensnared by the Stone Freak is a standalone paranormal romance by Vala Stone, and is part of the Twisted Carnival series.

This was a fun read, although the setting of a carnival filled with paranormal beings as the show gives it a gritty, darker feel. This is an over the top, instalove, fated mate kind of situation, which will please many who can't resist a paranormal being finding their destined mate. There's a bit of spice, but mostly this is about Halvard (the half gargoyle, half basilisk who feels that his gifts are actually a curse) and Camryn (a human lawyer who isn't satisfied with her lot in life).

I really enjoyed getting to know both Halvard and Camryn, on the outside they seem mismatched, but as we get to know the characters (and we see the lust and mating give way to more), we do find out that this unlikely pair have more in common than just fate.

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

[Linley Adams]

This isn’t as long as some stories however, it delivers and I enjoyed it very much, felt happy with the setting in a carnival with the so called carnies that have been mentioned in stories over centuries and having a gargoyle in it I found fascinating. I love dragons, gargoyles and all the fantasy creatures so very much got into this easily and finished it quickly because of that. Look forward to reading more of this authors books. I love reviewing books as there are so many talented authors out there who I’d never be introduced to except through this forum. And also because I am Australian and a lot of popular authors may be in Kindle under special offers but often aren’t in those we can access through Amazon Australia. And I can’t afford the monthly Kindle subscription. So I enjoy these books and can access so much more fantasy by reviewing than any other method. I definitely recommend this book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Ingrid]

This paranormal romance stands out by weaving in the unsettling “carnival freak” fears that were very much part of the 19th century mindset. That historical undercurrent adds an intriguing, slightly dark edge to the story and gives it a distinctive atmosphere compared to more conventional paranormal romances.
The pacing is fast and keeps the story moving smoothly, making it an easy and engaging read. While it doesn’t linger too long on heavy themes, it uses them effectively to create tension and curiosity, which works well for a shorter, escapist novel.
Overall, this is a quick, enjoyable paranormal romance that offers something a little different through its historical influences. It’s a solid choice if you’re looking for a fast-paced escape with an unusual premise and a touch of darker flavor woven into the romance.I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Carole]

Ensnared by the Stone Freak is an engaging paranormal romance that has MFC Camryn being coerced by her best friend Lis to join her at a newly arrived carnival for some fun.
They both work for her dad in his law firm and Camryn always has her nose to the grindstone, besides trying to avoid her stalker ex Throne.
It’s a night to remember though when she agrees to go and a gaze with MMC Halvard the Stone Freak gargoyle, one of the carnival acts sets her on a path towards passion and danger.
Halvard knows she is his mate because looking into his eyes doesn’t turn her to stone.
This was a tantalizing novella laced with intrigue, spice, personal vulnerabilities, magic, a pet boar, surprises, nice writing, and pleasant characters, in an entertaining read that will lead to a perfect HEA.

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

[Debra's Midlife Library]

Imagine a life where you've hudden yourself away because of a particularly bad relationship. Working as a lawyer, but doing little else. Then, you are convinced to go to a dark Carnival and everything changes.

Cammy seemingly takes this new view on life, and the creatures living in it, in stride. Little seems to phase her, making this fast paced and short novella an easy, but enjoyable, read.

Though enjoyable, there is so much missing that the story felt as it was. Rushed. The authors descriptions were top tier, even rushed we get in depth details from the dual points of view. The spice at the end of the book was extremely well written, as well, and left you wishing there had been more given to us. Greedy readers unite!

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

[Debbie]

Halvard and Cammy
Cammy is stuck in a job she doesn't enjoy. She never dates because her ex threatens them everytime she goes out. She's become a workaholic. But that changes when her best friend convinces her yo go to a paranormal carnival one evening. There she meets Havard. He's hot and dressed in leather. Halvard is a gargoyle. He can turn his skin to stone and can turn people to stone for a few minutes. He uses his skill in a carnival. When he meets Cammy and she doesn't turn to stone, he knows she's his mate. Her ex is after her and he'll protect her from his threats.
Original, wonderful characters, action, danger, entertaining, steamy, fated mates and happily-ever-after.

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

[Bookwyrm_in_KC]

This is the 2nd novella by Vala Stone that I have got to ARC read. Vala has a talent for packing a whole lot of story and character development into a small number of pages. Even though Ensnated by the Stone Freak is short it's still a great fun and spicy urban fantasy read.

Camryn is a burned out, relationship phobic lawyer. After her bff Liz convinces her to go to a carnival, Cammie finds herself inextricably drawn to one of the performers.

Halvard, AKA "The Stone Freak" is rattled when he makes sees a Camryn in the crowd and realizes she his fated mate. But he is cursed to turn anyone who looks into his eyes into temporarily into stone.

Together they must overcome their wildly different backgrounds, a curse and a stalker ex to get their HEA.

[Trina Jones]

Great story. It was a steamy page turner and the suspense was intense. I was on the verge of my seat and I couldn't even put it down. Their love was forbidden he was intrigued with her beauty. There were so many creatures around this Carnival at Halvard's Airstream campground. He was going to make her his own but her life was not boring enough to turn her life upside down. He was fallen in love with her and she was feeling something strange in her heart and soul. The chemistry between them was captivating and spicy hotness of passion and romance .

I highly recommend this book and you won't be disappointed.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Trina Jones

[Gleeful Goblin Reviews]

Gleeful Goblin Review: This is an author I really enjoy and I was interested to see how a book with slightly darker than the normal cozy romances from Hillcrest Hollow Shifters and Rescued from Ruin series I've read from the author before. Interestingly this is a book in a multi author connected world but stand alone novels universe of The Twisted Carnival and like the name implies, things here are a bit...odd in the best way. This is a short story at 73 pages so it's a great way to spend a few hours immersing yourself in this mysterious and slightly foreboding setting. The author packs a ton of fun into short pages and I found the concept of a half gargoyle, half basilisk character totally fascinating! 5/5 Stars.

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

[Tima]

Camryn, the female human lawyer lead, came to the circus where Halvard, the male gargoyle/basilisk lead, is part of the troupe because her best friend harassed her into the expedition. Whilst the attraction is immediate, Halvard is sure he’s a risk to Camryn’s health, even if she is his mate. But when Camryn’s ex shows up, still stalking her, Halvard is determined to protect her…

This short story is dual POV, and a sweet and steamy, contemporary fantasy romance. I enjoyed Camryn’s dawning awareness that she could have more life than she was allowing herself. I enjoyed Halvard’s determined care for Camryn, even at the risk of personal loss. I enjoyed the contrast of wanted versus unwanted attention, and wish that all stalking situations were as easily resolved in real life. I enjoyed the physical intimacy of the characters, and the supportive secondary characters.

I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my voluntary honest review.

[Sandra Sanches]

I'm a fan of the author's work under her other pen name so I jumped into this one right away
A unlikely connection between Camryn and Halvard,a prophecy from a seer ,a ex that isn't exactly what he seems and fate working ....
While being a short story without lots of worldbuilding or in-depth character development, Vala Stone manages to weave a captivating story ,fast paced ,keeping me engrossed in the story to see how Camryn and Halvard's stories intertwine and unfold.
I very much liked of the premisse of the story and hope to see more of the Carnival unhabitants stories!.

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

[Michelle]

When offered the chance for a free copy of this book, it seemed like a great introduction to Vala Stone.

I really enjoyed this book. I think that I would feel the came way as Camryn, in her situation. Who wouldn't be? But, I love that she had a friend like Lis to pull her out of her comfort zone. If not, she never would have had the chance to meet Halvard. He's a man that knows what he needs, and will do what is necessary to get it. And the best part, is that he doesn't seem to care who knows it or what they think. The instant, undeniable attraction? Yes, please!

I think we all deserve to find someone like that.

[Sara Sigler]

Camryn was talked into got to the carnival by her best friend Lis who knew the real story behind the carnival. Halvard had to wear special glasses so he wouldn’t turn people to stone, he had been told by the seer that he would find the person for him. Camryn felt drawn to him saw his skin turn to stone so the knives bounced off him, had her check that the knives were sharp and pricked her finger. He ex showed up Lis realized that he was a warlock took them awhile to make him see that she didn’t want to be with him. Camryn takes her law degree and goes with Halvard on the road.

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

[Julie]

This was a creative and imaginative story. I adored Halvard and his 'quirk' of turning people to stone. The twisted circus idea entranced me from the outset and I was fascinated by the various secondary characters. Camryn was an entirely sympathetic FMC who was struggling to get out from under not only her father's thumb but also her ex. Turns out, the world was a much larger place than she ever imagined it could be. Good thing she had Liz in her corner!

This story swept me up in not only the characters but the storyline itself. I can't wait to read more of this series! I voluntarily reviewed a gift copy of this book. Happy Reading Y'all 📚

[Claire Turvey]

Fine as a mindless read

The first part of the book is very much characterised by a moody and eerie feel, which eases as the storyline gets established. Overall, the story is a simple and easy read, and if you approach it as such, it is fun and enjoyable. I found that there were a couple of issues that negatively impacted my enjoyment of the story: there were some continuity issues, it seemed unlikely how little the FMC questioned her friend and how easily she lets her friend off the hook, and the final confrontation seemed unlikely and somewhat out of character for some of those involved.

Full disclosure: I was given an ARC of the book, however this review is my own honest opinion.