Taking His Confession

Cloth & Stone #1

by P.J. Friel, Saffron Hart

Sparks fly when a man of the cloth teams up with a cursed creature of stone to save a troubled teen from a ruthless drug lord. 

Gideon Fawkes longs to meet the handsome young deacon who teaches at St. Anthony’s Boys Academy. There’s just one problem. Gideon is a gargoyle, and he’s pretty sure Deacon Cruz only dates humans.

Cordero Cruz knows a lot about forgiveness. It’s the cornerstone of his calling. Too bad he can never offer it to himself. Because of him, people died, and there’s no redemption for that kind of mistake.

But a lack of humanity and a heart filled with guilt are nothing compared to a young man’s life. When a merciless criminal threatens Cordero and one of his students, Gideon will have to risk more than his stony hide to protect them. Cordero must do the unthinkable to prove he’s deserving of the gargoyle turned guardian angel. But when their road to hell is paved with good intentions, they must learn only trust and redemption can pave the way for love.

Genres: M M Romance, Paranormal, Fantasy, Romance

278 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 3, 2020

About the author

PJ writes steamy, action-packed paranormal romance novels starring characters from both ends of the Kinsey scale and everything in between. She delves into themes like fate and overcoming the past. Her characters are strong, capable, and complex regardless of gender, and her worldbuilding is a little...intense.

When PJ isn't terrorizing the highways of Ohio in her red, mid-life crisis sports car or crunching numbers in Excel spreadsheets, she's writing or playing with her grandpuppies.

She is currently single and lives with her son and his two dogs, who all think they're the boss of her. They're probably right.

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Website: http://www.pjfriel.com
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/authorpjfriel/
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Twitter: https://twitter.com/pj_friel
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Reviews

[PaperMoon · Rating 3 out of 5]

The premise whereby a man of the cloth (who's lost his faith) teaming up with a cursed creature doomed to hear/witness the prayers of the faithful promised great things. I had envisaged a modern take on that '80s Linda Hamilton/Ron Perlman series (which I quite enjoyed) but not quite ... just two very dark and complex MCs, loaded up with guilt and regrets, who second-guess (usually wrongly) and deeply offend/wound each other with every second sentence.

Whilst the action sequences were quite dynamic, and the inevitable M-M action sufficiently explosive, I got quite frustrated with their attract/repel dynamic in the end. However, I am sufficiently intrigued as to how Gideon 'became' a gargoyle to continue with the next book.

[Stephanie W · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reader's Warning: This is book is a part of an ongoing series: You must read the entire trilogy for full effect.
PJ Friel and Saffron Hart are both new authors for me. I've loved gargoyles since I was a kid. Imagine how giddy I was to find this book had a gargoyle main character.
**************************************************************************
Gideon Fawkes - is a teacher, a deacon, and a gargoyle at St. Anthony's Boys Academy. He is infatuated with another man but is hesitant to make his move because he thinks the man only dates humans. Lives are at risk and he must help. Putting his life and secret in the way to do so.

Cordero Cruz - is is a deacon who lost his brother and best friend to violence. Carrying that horrible burden from the past seems to drive him every single day with his decisions. He helps others forgive but is never able to do it for his peace of mind. Cordero works to keep his best friend's younger brother from succumbing to the very same violence that took his best friend.

Ironically Gideon feared he was not good enough for Cordero's heart. Turns out Cordero is working overtime to prove his worth to his protector/guardian angel .

Each character has in depth story lines, real world emotions, protectors in their own rights, learning to trust, and worthy road to their happily ever after.



**I received an ARC via Gay Romance Reviews for my honest feedback.**

[Georgiana · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m a sucker for gargoyles so I was excited to see a new series about one, especially with a possible love interest with a Deacon.

Overall, I really liked this story. There were just a few times I found it a little slow, but not enough to draw my attention elsewhere. I did like the story-line and the last half of the book sucked me in. I thought I still had twenty mins. left to read when “to be continued” appeared and I was a bit disappointed. I definitely need to know what’s going to happen to Cordero and Gideon, and even with Myles.

[Patricia Nelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely LOVED this marvelous, poignant, slow burning, fresh, original, bittersweet, raw, gritty, grab-you-by-the-feels, gripping, unconventional, unexpected, emotionally charged, and totally awesome story. It's the start of an intriguing new series by a new-to-me author, and I can't wait to see what happens next.

[Kaila · Rating 4 out of 5]

i freakin adore gargoyles and this one was very unique and interesting. i enjoyed the storyline and characters. it made me happy and kept me on the edge of my seat curious. i cant wait to see what is next in this series

[Laura Holland · Rating 5 out of 5]

Now having already read one of PJ Friel's books I already had high expectations, but also trepidation.

Let me explain...
Co written books have always been hit and miss for me. It either works and you don't notice two different writers or unfortunately it can fall flat. I haven't read any of Saffrons work before but what I can say was these two weaved a beautiful story together and at no point did I detect separate styles of writing. It all just flowed naturally into a exceptional crafted piece of writing.

My next trepidation was this is trope I don't tend to read, after having had a bad experience reading it. You know the ones where it leaves an inky taste in your mouth and you sort of need a bleach bath. But I love PJ and I trust she wouldn't leave me feeling yuck. And I am so glad I did trust her, these ladies smashed it and left me excited to continue their story.

Gideon and Cordero stole my heart! Gideon is all alpha male, broody, and a little bit broken. Then you have Deacon Cordero who has his own demons to battle but has a heart of gold. These together were an absolute pleasure to read. Seeing them grow and embrace their chemistry was captivating but amongst all that their love doesn't come easily but the loyalty and devotion they possess for each other has far more strength.

They endure many battles together and alone but the war has only just begun in Taking His Confession. I cannot wait to see where their story is going to take me but I have no doubts it will be just as enthralling as the first.

[Christina Poteet · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I first learned that PJ was writing a new book—I geeked out a smidge. Then I find out that it’s a collaboration with this as the description...I nearly lost it (in a good way).

As someone who has read more than her fair share of books, I wholeheartedly praise and recommend what these two talented authors have come together to create. Seriously, I lost count of the times I awww’d after a scene or felt my heart tug in response to what they were going through (don’t get me started on the steamy scenes too, because whew...).

After a while, ANY genre and all of its usual tropes can get very boring, especially when it involves romance. It’s always billionaire bad boy this or werewolf alpha that. This book falls prey to none of that.

I was pleasantly surprised as I read about the odd relationship Cordero and Gideon struggle towards in their world—one that tries its hardest to wipe out any trace of hope, love, and miracles (there were so many times I wanted to leap into the pages to knock Dane Stevens, or ANY of the bad guys mentioned flat on his/their rear end(s). Even that parking lot jackass! I may have gotten a tad protective over Cordero myself).

I never would’ve thought that an eager but weary man of the church like Cordero and a cursed man turned stony statue like Gideon could work (in any sense of that word). But here they are, in this first installment of the series, quite literally um...rocking it? (Bad joke, I know heh).

P.S. I am in love with all the sassy attitudes, by the way. If they both get snarkier in the second book...that would be fine with me!

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

[Alexis Woods · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

So this was really, really good. There was wonderful world building and lovely descriptions throughout the story. Basic opening: Gideon was cursed by God during the Prohibition Era. He is locked in stone as a gargoyle during the day, but by night he becomes living stone. He resides on the rooftop of Cordero Cruz's church/school where he lives as deacon and teacher. When Gideon accidentally reveals himself in an attempt to warn Cordero, it sets in motion and epic love affair.

Yeah, I totally blew off everything I should have been doing to devour this book. The plot was engaging and didn't stray from its course. As I mentioned, the descriptions of the various setting were flowing and light, enough to whet my appreciative brain without overloading it. The religious aspect was dialed back too, which I appreciated. I am definitely looking forward to getting my hands on book two. There's so much more to this. HFN but a very strong sense of HEA to come.

ARC copy. So I had one major issue that I sent to author which they've chosen to go with author's voice and I can't fault them for it, but when I got pulled out the story multiple times by it, I think it's worth mentioning. The problem for me was the non use of italics for proper thoughts. The story is told from first person alternating POVs, but still contained true thoughts that I felt would have been better defined if they'd been in italics. Again, this is totally my opinion.

[Juniper · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cordero is a young deacon trying to live a righteous life to atone for tragedy in his past. Gideon is a gargoyle, cursed by God (he thinks) for his unrighteous actions a century ago. By day, he's stone. By night, he's something more. I could not love the premise of this novel any more if I tried-- the tormented yet sexy gargoyle angle was definitely not one I was expecting, but it absolutely works. There's a delightful vein of snark running through this novel, in addition to a considerable amount of angst and a mysterious supernatural system that not even the supernatural being himself seems to fully understand. I loved Gideon from the start. Cordero was more frustrating, in part because he got himself caught in a "what is God's plan" feedback loop that Gideon ended up paying for, emotionally and physically. Still, he grew on me after a while, and I can't wait to see what happens to these two next.

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

[Raven and Chris · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gideon is a gargoyle, a man cursed to be stone during the day and flesh at night. He has been watching Cordero for years and listening to his prayers as he attempts to minister to his church as a deacon. This was the first book I had read by either author. It is a beautiful story; both characters very complex and full of conflicting emotions. They each have their own motivations for fighting the drug lord that has his grip on the Cleveland community. This is not a light read but it is worth it. Cordero struggles with what he feels is his commitment to God and his lack of faith in the parish and school where he works. Gideon has little faith in God because he believes that God has cursed him into his gargoyle form. It will be very interesting to see where their crusade goes and what answers we may get to Gideon’s curse.

[Liya · Rating 4 out of 5]

*** 3.5 ***

Engaging storytelling, dual POV, fleshed out MCs. I really like Gideon - cursed to be a gargoyle by unknown force. He watches over people on the street and doesn't really connect with their struggles until Cordero. Then he gets involved and the story unfolds from this point.
I found it harder to connect with Cordero. He is guided by guilt over what happened with his brother and best friend and chose his path based on this. He struggles with unjustice around him but does nothing until it affects somebody he knows and his meeting with Gideon. I'm not a believer and his constant inner monologs with or about God were annoying. I think I expected more magic and less matters of faith.
The story ends with HFN and heroes heading into the unknown.
Rounded up since despite my issues with everything faith related (emphasis on my) I'm still hooked and will definitely read the next book in the series.

[Susan Bee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omigosh LOVED

I wasnt sure about this when I first started reading it. Cordero is a Deacon at a Catholic church. He lost his brother and his bestfriend to gang violence and he isntrying to prevent the same thing from happening to his bestfriends little brother. He prays for help to keep Myles, a high schooler, safe from drug dealers.

Gideon has been curses for almost a century. By day he sits atop the church rooftop as a stone gargoyle. He comes alive at night, flying through the skies unseen.

By day or night, he watches and he hears the prayers of the city. But the voice he hears distinctly is the voice of Deacon Cordero Cruz.

Gideon believes he was cursed into becoming this gargoyle because he was a bad man in his human life. He believes God turned him into what he is. He doesn't think God hears him or even cares.

Cordero prays for everyone, he truly is a good guy. His feelings for Gideon get confusing and he has to keep his distance if he wants to become a priest.

This story had me hanging on every page. Truly original. Action packed. To me justice is important so I was all about getting even with the drug dealers. Reading both Cordero thoughts and definitely Gideon thoughts was heartbreaking. Just so sad Gideon has been locked into a gargoyle for so long.

Both of the characters questioned their faith, their fate, and their feelings toward each other. So good.

Then I was mad because at the end I realize its a trilogy and the story isn't resolved yet! But, just means I have more to read.

[Diane · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a really good start to a new series from a new me author. I really enjoyed it. Cordero is a Deacon who is trying to protect his community and the kids at his school, from the drug lord who is running the streets. What I loved is this is set in my hometown. I live in a suburb of Cleveland and recognize the locations that the author talks about in the book. Gideon is a gargoyle who believes that he has been cursed by God. He sits on top of Cordero's church during the day and breaks his stone shell once the sun goes down. He also hears all the prayers of the parishioners and can't believe how selfish they are. All except for Cordero. All his prayers are for others. When Cordero runs into Gideon he doesn't really freak but believes that he can help him clean up the streets, Gideon is up for that. We do get to see these two grow close together & Gideon's heart start to thaw.

Arc provided by Gay romance reviews in exchange for an honest review

[Maggie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I admit, it was the gargoyle angle that sucked me in. I've had a secret thing for gargoyle romances ever since a certain cartoon was on the air years ago. But I've never seen an m/m gargoyle book, m/m being my preferred style of romance these days.

I read and loved PJ Friel's other book so I jumped at the chance of this one, and I'm glad I did. Well constructed characters, an intriguing plot and the romance my younger self didn'tk ow she was missing in the cartoon!

Can't wait for the next book!

[Elaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

A slow burn, paranormal romance the features two deeply flawed men seeking redemption.
Cordero is a deacon on his way to taking his vows to be a priest. His dark past makes him determined to help make things better for his neighborhood, especially the kids who attend the Catholic High school run by his church. But his desire to make life better for the kids is thwarted by a drug lord who has the ear of the priest in charge of the church. When his attempt to make things right goes awry, Cordero is saved by that thing he expected—the gargoyle that sits on top of the church.
Gideon is cursed. For almost ninety years he has been the gargoyle sentinel of St. Anthony’s church. He doesn’t know how it happened, only that God has cursed him as a punishment for his sins. All day long he sits as a stone ornament atop the church. Only at night does he turn into flesh and is able to spread his wings and fly over Cleveland. Part of his curse is the ability to hear all the prayers of the people of the city. The only prayers that mean anything to him are the prayers of Deacon Cordero. He could listen to that angelic voice forever.
When Gideon and Cordero meet, it is definitely not love at first sight—at least not for Cordero. But as they work together to clean up the city, as Cordero convinces Gideon to care, their relationship develops into friendship and then something more.
I enjoyed reading this first book of the series. The growth of the two men in the story is gradual and seems natural and not forced. I look forward to seeing where their adventure take them.

[Latecia Jennings · Rating 4 out of 5]

**First Time Reader** I didn't know what to expect when I started this book. It look interesting...a romance with paranormal elements involving a man of God and a gargoyle. I really enjoyed this first installment. Normally I don't too much care for books with cliff hangers but this one ended well leaving the reader(atleast in my opinion) wanting to continue on reading because you are invested in these wonderful characters. From beginning til end I fell in love with Gideon. He is a gargoyle but he didn't lose his human tendencies. He kept me either laughing, smiling and constantly cheering him on. Now it did take me a bit to warm up to Cordero. To be a man of God he had some selfish ways but I gradually realized most came from a place of fear and care...he is human and not all perfect. He cares deeply and I give him credit he does evaluates his actions and tries to correct his actions....especially his relationship with Gideon. Poor Gideon doesn't know if he coming or going with Cordero push and pull antics. But the guys get it together toward the end which leaves us with a HFN and more to come with their story and the every growing issues with the bad guys. I'm invested...gotta keep going to the next story.

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

[Lexi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really loved this first book! The characters are very engaging and made me want to know even more about them. It was a joy getting to know Gideon and Cordero. There was definitely some angst but there was also sweet moments to balance out the angst. I want to know even more about these characters and their history. Hopefully we will learn more about them in subsequent books. Gideon is the gargoyle and still retains his humanity and human qualities throughout this story and his life. He gets to be flesh at night and is stone during the day listening to the prayers of the partitioners along with Cordero who is the only one not making selfish prayers which intrigues the gargoyle. The two getting to know each other was definitely fun to read. The author did a fantastic job laying the groundwork for this story and making this I world I want to find out more about. I definitely want to know more and read the rest of the books. This has a HFN and I hope for their HEA in later books.

[Katie · Rating 4 out of 5]

A gargoyle and a deacon

I’ve not paid any attention to gargoyle books before this one and I’m glad I took the chance. This book is well written with characters that are easy to get attached to. There’s just enough angst to get you all worked up, and just enough sweetness to make it worth it. It’s a great start to an interesting series from new-to-me authors. I’ll definitely finish this series.

[Felicity · Rating 4 out of 5]

The concept for this book was definitely intriguing, as I began to read it became bingeworthy. I couldn't put it down. I needed to know what happens next. In my opinion thats the perfect way to start a series!! Thank you GRR for hooking me up with this one.

[Ida Umphers · Rating 5 out of 5]

I cannot wait to read the rest of this series. I find gargoyles fascinating, and this one acting as the protector of a church deacon and his student is a wonderful character. We don't get the ending of the story here, this is definitely not a standalone story. Fortunately, it won't be long before the subsequent volumes arrive. If you were a fan of the Gargoyles cartoon, you must read this story. It's as though Goliath has been allowed to be in an m/m relationship. Suspenseful with a great romantic relationship.

[RACHEL REED · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book 1 in the series and is part of a continuing series, best enjoyed in the series order. They are not standalones.

I was in awe of the world building created by the Author.
It was unique, compelling and well introduced.
The chemistry between Gideon and Cordero was well developed.
Both characters were likeable and enjoyable to read.
I loved the premise and the book didn't dissapoint in the slightest.
It was everything I was expecting and more.
I can't wait to dive into the next book of this series.

If you like gargoyles, curses and finding true love, you will love this.

[Amber Antus · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gideon and Cordero are such an interesting couple. I loved that their relationship is so unique. I really loved seeing the two of them grow closer and see Cordero accepting Gideon. I absolutely adored the paranormal aspects of this book and think it's a great take on Gargoyles. There is a great deal of snark and I loved that. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series, I would recommend this book.

[N · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC through Gay Romance Reviews. I was intrigued because Gideon was described as a cursed creature of stone with a lack of humanity. I had hoped Deacon Cordero would slowly turn Gideon's stony heart to the light. I didn't expect Gideon to have been pining for Cordero for so long. It makes him innocently devoted to Cordero, trying to help the deacon protect his student. Cordero is very human in his search for a sign to point him onto the right path, so much so I felt a little annoyed at him at some points. While Gideon was willing to do anything for Cordero, Cordero vacillated. Gideon definitely carried the story for me. The story ends on a soft cliffhanger, so I will be reading the next book. Hopefully Cordero will be more courageous!

[Ariel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyed this more than I thought I would! This book had just the right amount of sweetness and angst to balance the story, and Cordero and Gideon make a very unique couple.

I don’t really read books that involve religion but this was really well done. The characters are almost from two different sides of the faith. One who tries to give himself fully to God while the other blames God for his curse. This dynamic between the characters works really well and I’m looking forward to seeing it play out more as the series goes on and we get some more info on Gideon’s past.

Overall, an exciting and emotional read! I’m eager to start book two and find out how the MCs are going to get out of their current predicament.

3.5-4 Stars

[Rachwithheadinabook · Rating 4 out of 5]

The trilogy written by two new to me authors, I was very intrigued especially as it was about a gargoyle and a man of the cloth.

This first book was filled with action and about the tentative beginnings of the relationship between church Deacon Cordero and gargoyle Gideon. The menace and urgency of Dane Stevens and his gang run through out. This book is so well collaborated on, that even the distinctly separate voices of Cordero and Gideon can not upset the seamless storytelling. I was entertained, I enjoyed this book and I look forward to what the authors, Gideon, Cordero and Dane Stevens have in store for us readers next.

[Janet Hunt · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I read the blurb for this about a Gargoyle, I was hooked! I absolutely loved this story!! Cordero was a man of the cloth and Gideon a gargoyle by day and man by night. Both main characters had a lot of depth. Their relationship had a realism that I could feel. The story line was excellent, I cannot wait to read more of the series. I’m voluntarily reviewing from an advanced copy I received. This was solely based on my honest thoughts and views.

[Triin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved it

I absolutely loved this book.
I found both Gideon and Cordero to be very interesting characters. I would have loved to get more of their history and I hope to see that in the next book.
I really liked the aspect of Gideon being a gargoyle. Makes their relationship interesting and gives the story a whole new set of problems to overcome.
Can't wait for the next book.

[Siobhan Flynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing, awesome and a very good plot with interesting characters. Funny too.

[Aimee · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an excellent start to a very intriguing series and I can’t wait to continue the journey. Gideon is a man turned into a gargoyle who thinks it’s a curse from God for something done in his past. Cordero is a Deacon who lives with a ton of guilt for actions of his past, so he turned to God to try to redeem those actions. The men meet and it’s an instant attraction built on lies and trying to help each other. The story was fast paced and lively and I love how they come together to help Myles. Both men are sweet in their own ways and I know they perfect for each other.

[Scarolet Ellis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Taking His Confession by PJ Friel is a wonderful story that I have read. This is book number one in this wonderful start to a brand new series written by a brand new author for me to read. I can not wait to read the rest of this wonderful series. I highly recommend this story to everyone who loves reading about LGBT and paranormal romance.

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