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Monstrous Matches #2
Deceived by the Gargoyles
A curvy librarian looking to start a family, a clan of gargoyles, and the deception that starts it all.
My family has always found me lacking. From the way I dress, how I look, to the type of magic I have. My family name is full of pomp and prestige, and I want nothing to do with it.
I’m a witch that knows how to set a goal and I have one in mind.
I want a real family.
Dating is a travesty. All the suitors I meet are looking for a connection to the family name I left behind. I need help.
Enter the matchmaker. It seems too good to be true that I can give her the list of traits I want in a partner and have my deepest desire answered, but I’m out of options.
Love comes along in the most unexpected ways.
From the very first moment I meet Elliot Bramblewick, I have hope. But he’s tricky.
I’m not expecting him to be hiding two other mates. Mates who are as alarmed and intrigued by my presence as I am by theirs.
He thinks I’m a perfect fit for them, but can I open my heart and discard my list long enough to see if this is the family I’m looking for?
None of my lists and plans prepared me for being courted by three gargoyles.
Deceived by the Gargoyles is a standalone monster romance in the same world as Stalked by the Kraken with multiple love interests who are in relationships with each other. There will be no choosing among the love interests.
Content Warning: This book includes breeding, knots, and size difference
My family has always found me lacking. From the way I dress, how I look, to the type of magic I have. My family name is full of pomp and prestige, and I want nothing to do with it.
I’m a witch that knows how to set a goal and I have one in mind.
I want a real family.
Dating is a travesty. All the suitors I meet are looking for a connection to the family name I left behind. I need help.
Enter the matchmaker. It seems too good to be true that I can give her the list of traits I want in a partner and have my deepest desire answered, but I’m out of options.
Love comes along in the most unexpected ways.
From the very first moment I meet Elliot Bramblewick, I have hope. But he’s tricky.
I’m not expecting him to be hiding two other mates. Mates who are as alarmed and intrigued by my presence as I am by theirs.
He thinks I’m a perfect fit for them, but can I open my heart and discard my list long enough to see if this is the family I’m looking for?
None of my lists and plans prepared me for being courted by three gargoyles.
Deceived by the Gargoyles is a standalone monster romance in the same world as Stalked by the Kraken with multiple love interests who are in relationships with each other. There will be no choosing among the love interests.
Content Warning: This book includes breeding, knots, and size difference
414 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 31, 2022
2485 people are currently reading
12083 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,823 reviews
March 29, 2022
If I never read the word “seed” again it’ll be to soon
December 16, 2021
i fudging love Lillian Lark.
Read
February 20, 2022This one really picked up for me when Grace meets the rest of the gargoyles (what's one more than a throuple? quadruple? who knows). I really liked how devoted they were to each other and how instantly Grace was just theirs, no questions asked.
March 18, 2023
it's crazy that a book like this could work. but damn. it works.
there's something so satisfying about a world where the main character is a plus sized woman and instead of a human love interest having to convince her she's still beautiful despite it, her non-human lover can just toss her around like she's nothing and passes no judgment on her body because they're just as big, if not bigger. maybe that's why i love em!
but also, the characters in this were so great. i am a self proclaimed skim reader in genres like this if the plot around the smut is too boring, but i was actually pretty captivated with everything going on. i loved the slow ("slow") burn, the development of trust, and all the power dynamics within the clan/polyamorous group.
i took some stars off because like in book one, i hate that this series has all these side plots about crazy ex boyfriends doing criminal shit. i'd much prefer a third act breakup than all the characters splitting up to go solve a crime. also, this has a sprinkling of unbearable dialogue every few pages, so i docked a star for some cringe. but i'm also reading fucking gargoyle porn, so who out here was expecting it to be perfect?
there's something so satisfying about a world where the main character is a plus sized woman and instead of a human love interest having to convince her she's still beautiful despite it, her non-human lover can just toss her around like she's nothing and passes no judgment on her body because they're just as big, if not bigger. maybe that's why i love em!
but also, the characters in this were so great. i am a self proclaimed skim reader in genres like this if the plot around the smut is too boring, but i was actually pretty captivated with everything going on. i loved the slow ("slow") burn, the development of trust, and all the power dynamics within the clan/polyamorous group.
i took some stars off because like in book one, i hate that this series has all these side plots about crazy ex boyfriends doing criminal shit. i'd much prefer a third act breakup than all the characters splitting up to go solve a crime. also, this has a sprinkling of unbearable dialogue every few pages, so i docked a star for some cringe. but i'm also reading fucking gargoyle porn, so who out here was expecting it to be perfect?
February 2, 2022
This story was like a warm mug of tea and cuddling by the fire. I would recommend this book to readers who like a steamy but sweeter, gentler take on their monster romances.
Book features the following:
FMMM
Sword crossing
Knotting
Plus size FMC
Wings, fangs, claws, horns
Tail sex
Breeding
This is a story about acceptance. The characters are well developed, and their emotions felt genuine and heartfelt.
Often in RH, the men can start to blend together. Not this one! Each male was clearly defined with such wonderful personalities it was very easy to tell them apart. The Bramblewicks are: Alasdair, the broody, gentle giant, clan leader. Broderick, the artist, charmer, and handyman. Elliot, the young chef, and troublemake.
I LOVED Grace’s witch ability! The old manuscripts, books, and texts!?
The steam was steamy. That first scene with Broderick and Elliot, smokin HOT. Who knew I needed tail sex in my life? I’m sure it’s a fine balance to write a RH/poly with MM elements and keep the readers from feeling jealous when the h is left left out. Maybe I’m a complete perve, but
Small issues with the story:
The main conflict in the story made sense, but felt kinda out of place. The only other part I questioned was with Lachlan and the clan.
Overall, I love Lillian Lark’s writing and look forward to throwing money at any future books she wants to write.
Book features the following:
FMMM
Sword crossing
Knotting
Plus size FMC
Wings, fangs, claws, horns
Tail sex
Breeding
This is a story about acceptance. The characters are well developed, and their emotions felt genuine and heartfelt.
Often in RH, the men can start to blend together. Not this one! Each male was clearly defined with such wonderful personalities it was very easy to tell them apart. The Bramblewicks are: Alasdair, the broody, gentle giant, clan leader. Broderick, the artist, charmer, and handyman. Elliot, the young chef, and troublemake.
I LOVED Grace’s witch ability! The old manuscripts, books, and texts!?
Carefully, I slide my fingers over the paper and the history of it fills my mind. The familial love hits me first and I gasp at the fierceness of it. This book had been passed down a line of matriarchs who worshiped the warmth of the sun, the damp of rich soil, and the tender sprouts of new life.With four different POV’s I had a wonderful vision into what everyone was thinking which I appreciated! I do wished Lark had developed their world a bit more. I wanted to know more about the gargoyle family structure, about the other clans in general. I wanted to know more about Grace's witch ability too.
The steam was steamy. That first scene with Broderick and Elliot, smokin HOT. Who knew I needed tail sex in my life? I’m sure it’s a fine balance to write a RH/poly with MM elements and keep the readers from feeling jealous when the h is left left out. Maybe I’m a complete perve, but
Small issues with the story:
The main conflict in the story made sense, but felt kinda out of place. The only other part I questioned was with Lachlan and the clan.
Overall, I love Lillian Lark’s writing and look forward to throwing money at any future books she wants to write.
August 18, 2022
4.5/5 ⭐️s
I finished this book two days ago and still can’t get it off my mind. I loved Grace and her three gargoyles so much!
This book works because Lillian Lark took the time to not just establish the relationships between Grace and each gargoyle, but also the relationships between the three gargoyles themselves. This book begins after Elliot has been mated to Broderick and Alisdair for years. We get to see their genuine love for each other, and I loved them enough to worry that Grace wouldn’t fit in their dynamic. But, just like Elliot said, it felt like they were complete once she was there. I loved her relationship with each gargoyle, but I genuinely adored them as a whole.
The side arc of a stalker ex harassing Grace gave the story some tension and helped push the plot forward. I felt the ending was a little rushed, but this book was about the relationships, so I’m not upset about it.
*Slight Spoiler: I am really eager to get to Emilia’s book after her introduction to this world though!**
Spice: 5/5 🌶
I finished this book two days ago and still can’t get it off my mind. I loved Grace and her three gargoyles so much!
This book works because Lillian Lark took the time to not just establish the relationships between Grace and each gargoyle, but also the relationships between the three gargoyles themselves. This book begins after Elliot has been mated to Broderick and Alisdair for years. We get to see their genuine love for each other, and I loved them enough to worry that Grace wouldn’t fit in their dynamic. But, just like Elliot said, it felt like they were complete once she was there. I loved her relationship with each gargoyle, but I genuinely adored them as a whole.
The side arc of a stalker ex harassing Grace gave the story some tension and helped push the plot forward. I felt the ending was a little rushed, but this book was about the relationships, so I’m not upset about it.
*Slight Spoiler: I am really eager to get to Emilia’s book after her introduction to this world though!**
Spice: 5/5 🌶
January 23, 2022
Stalked by the Kraken was one of my favorite monster romances last year, so when I saw the author had a new book in this series I was so excited! This series centers around Love Bathhouse, the premier place for paranormals of certain appetites to indulge in their sexual fantasies. It is also where paranormals can seek out appointments with the matchmaker, Rose (the heroine from Stalked by the Kraken). This read is a MMMF (no one is choosing, includes group activities 🔥), includes knotting and breeding talk.
Grace is a curvy librarian witch with an obsession for planners and lists. After growing up in a toxic family environment, Grace left behind the judgement and cruel words. Grace desperately wants a loving family of her own and after multiple failed dating attempts, she has taken matters into her own hand by visiting the matchmaker to find her mate. She is immediately paired with Elliot and is surprised how fast she hits it off with the handsome gargoyle. Now if only Elliot can get up the nerve to tell Grace he already has two mates of his own (poly relationships are common in this paranormal world), but he knows Grace is the missing piece for their already-established triad…
I adored this world and romance! The found family was so strong in this book and this gargoyle community that supports one another was so beautiful to see. We get multiple POVs in this book and I felt for every single character. Elliot the younger troublemaker gargoyle with a flair for fashion and cooking, Broderick the sensual artistic gargoyle, and Alasdir the protective strong leader of the gargoyle clan who doesn’t know how to put his feelings into words. I loved the addition of everyone’s work life, Grace in the library (her magic allows her to feel emotions through paper) and the restoration/architecture work for the gargoyle heroes. I loved the wooing and courting of Grace and how each of her relationships with the gargoyles was different and special. There is a bit of suspense happening in the story with Grace in danger a few times, and all of the protection and caretaking this brought about was just everything.
Thank you to the author for an e-ARC, I am voluntarily leaving my honest thoughts and review. Deceived by the Gargoyles has a publish date of January 31, 2022.
Grace is a curvy librarian witch with an obsession for planners and lists. After growing up in a toxic family environment, Grace left behind the judgement and cruel words. Grace desperately wants a loving family of her own and after multiple failed dating attempts, she has taken matters into her own hand by visiting the matchmaker to find her mate. She is immediately paired with Elliot and is surprised how fast she hits it off with the handsome gargoyle. Now if only Elliot can get up the nerve to tell Grace he already has two mates of his own (poly relationships are common in this paranormal world), but he knows Grace is the missing piece for their already-established triad…
I adored this world and romance! The found family was so strong in this book and this gargoyle community that supports one another was so beautiful to see. We get multiple POVs in this book and I felt for every single character. Elliot the younger troublemaker gargoyle with a flair for fashion and cooking, Broderick the sensual artistic gargoyle, and Alasdir the protective strong leader of the gargoyle clan who doesn’t know how to put his feelings into words. I loved the addition of everyone’s work life, Grace in the library (her magic allows her to feel emotions through paper) and the restoration/architecture work for the gargoyle heroes. I loved the wooing and courting of Grace and how each of her relationships with the gargoyles was different and special. There is a bit of suspense happening in the story with Grace in danger a few times, and all of the protection and caretaking this brought about was just everything.
Thank you to the author for an e-ARC, I am voluntarily leaving my honest thoughts and review. Deceived by the Gargoyles has a publish date of January 31, 2022.
February 4, 2022
Plus size MC? Check. Hot monster men? Check. Sword crossing? Checkcheckcheck. Knots? Ummm...🥵 yeah! This book has a lot to offer and it’s wrapped up in a really lovely (and spicy) story about found family! I’ve read quite a few of Lillian Lark’s books and this one absolutely did not disappoint. I laughed, I cried, I got a little hot under the collar 😅. I know monster romance isn’t for everybody but I can’t help the feeling those people scared off by some wings and claws are missing out on something special here. Sure these heroes may be made of stone but they’ve got the softest teddy bear hearts for their girl and they’re willing to do anything to protect her and their future together. I love this Monsterous Matches series and I really hope there will be more books down the line because I cannot get enough of this paranormal world!
Tiktok Review
*Thank you so much to Lillian Lark for the eARC of this book! I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.*
Tiktok Review
*Thank you so much to Lillian Lark for the eARC of this book! I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.*
February 7, 2022
Emotional and Romantic!!
4.5 Stars
I loved how Grace stood up for herself and what she wanted out of life. Not what her overbearing family decided she should do, or who she should date, or how she should look and dress. She opened her mind and heart to find her mates that would fulfill everything one of her checkboxes. Grace held out for the males that appreciated who she was and found her beautiful and sexy.
I just loved these sexy gargoyles. They were sweet and pampered the hell out of Grace. At the same time they supported her and showed her how a real family should be. Loving and uplifting. Alasdair, Broderick and Elliot were everything Grace hadn't realized she needed. The sexy times were spicy as hell too. With a couple of the guys being dirty talkers and one being very dominant. Knots, growls and purrs galore! Lots of MM and MMFM.
I'm loving this series and can't wait to see the next magical or paranormal couple that our matchmaking witch finds!
4.5 Stars
I loved how Grace stood up for herself and what she wanted out of life. Not what her overbearing family decided she should do, or who she should date, or how she should look and dress. She opened her mind and heart to find her mates that would fulfill everything one of her checkboxes. Grace held out for the males that appreciated who she was and found her beautiful and sexy.
I just loved these sexy gargoyles. They were sweet and pampered the hell out of Grace. At the same time they supported her and showed her how a real family should be. Loving and uplifting. Alasdair, Broderick and Elliot were everything Grace hadn't realized she needed. The sexy times were spicy as hell too. With a couple of the guys being dirty talkers and one being very dominant. Knots, growls and purrs galore! Lots of MM and MMFM.
I'm loving this series and can't wait to see the next magical or paranormal couple that our matchmaking witch finds!
March 26, 2022
Spicy monster goodness and one of only a select few RH that I like.
4 stars
3.5 on the spice scale.
4 stars
3.5 on the spice scale.
February 2, 2022
tw: fatphobia, stalking,
I'm grumpy that I didn't enjoy this as much as I was hoping to, but I'm hoping this is another case of something like Rooksgrave, where even if I don't like it, my friends will!
Grace is a witch from a prominent witch family who is tired of bad dates and just wants to settle down and find a family. She goes to a matchmaker and is matched with a gargoyle named Elliot. Everything seems to be working out but she can't figure out why he hasn't sealed the deal, but his perspective is illuminating: he has two other male mates that he's keeping from her.
Now, deceived is in the title! So I completely get that it comes with the territory with this book. I simply didn't like how the deception goes down. Grace is asked if she'd be interested in a group relationship and she says no. Elliot hears this and then plans his deception from there. If she had not been asked and Elliot had simply assumed she wouldn't be interested and needed to be convinced, that would be fine. But he has to lie to the matchmaker in order to continue the match and it just felt a little smarmy to me. I was expecting him to keep them a secret from her, yes, but not to go to the lengths he did. It felt parallel to when a guy is 'certain' his advances towards a woman will be accepted, despite her saying no. I just simply didn't love it going down that way.
I wanted more romance overall, I think. We skirt over a lot of the dates with Elliot and the romance with Broderick felt like instalove - the only one that takes any time is Alasdair and a fair bit of it still happened off page. I'm really into romance for the connection between the characters, and I simply didn't get enough of that in this book. Grace wanted a family and a place to belong, and that seemed to rush the relationship along a fair bit. It's personal preference, but it kept my enjoyment down when there wasn't enough build-up romantically.
Fatphobia plays a role in this book, though it's not done by anyone that isn't a villain. I'm still annoyed when it has to pop up - there's a line from the villain and I really feel like it was unnecessary. There were a million awful things he could have said.
I really did love Eloise, though. She was a sweet addition even when I was like "these people gonna have a foursome with an old lady downstairs?"
The next book looks like it will be a boss romance with Emilia, and I'll try that one to see if I like it more!
I'm grumpy that I didn't enjoy this as much as I was hoping to, but I'm hoping this is another case of something like Rooksgrave, where even if I don't like it, my friends will!
Grace is a witch from a prominent witch family who is tired of bad dates and just wants to settle down and find a family. She goes to a matchmaker and is matched with a gargoyle named Elliot. Everything seems to be working out but she can't figure out why he hasn't sealed the deal, but his perspective is illuminating: he has two other male mates that he's keeping from her.
Now, deceived is in the title! So I completely get that it comes with the territory with this book. I simply didn't like how the deception goes down. Grace is asked if she'd be interested in a group relationship and she says no. Elliot hears this and then plans his deception from there. If she had not been asked and Elliot had simply assumed she wouldn't be interested and needed to be convinced, that would be fine. But he has to lie to the matchmaker in order to continue the match and it just felt a little smarmy to me. I was expecting him to keep them a secret from her, yes, but not to go to the lengths he did. It felt parallel to when a guy is 'certain' his advances towards a woman will be accepted, despite her saying no. I just simply didn't love it going down that way.
I wanted more romance overall, I think. We skirt over a lot of the dates with Elliot and the romance with Broderick felt like instalove - the only one that takes any time is Alasdair and a fair bit of it still happened off page. I'm really into romance for the connection between the characters, and I simply didn't get enough of that in this book. Grace wanted a family and a place to belong, and that seemed to rush the relationship along a fair bit. It's personal preference, but it kept my enjoyment down when there wasn't enough build-up romantically.
Fatphobia plays a role in this book, though it's not done by anyone that isn't a villain. I'm still annoyed when it has to pop up - there's a line from the villain and I really feel like it was unnecessary. There were a million awful things he could have said.
I really did love Eloise, though. She was a sweet addition even when I was like "these people gonna have a foursome with an old lady downstairs?"
The next book looks like it will be a boss romance with Emilia, and I'll try that one to see if I like it more!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 28, 2022
4.5 stars. Very cute and smut was top tier.
March 23, 2022
4.5
Loved this so much. Hit all my favorite tropes and each love interest all my favorite kinds of love interests 😅
Loved this so much. Hit all my favorite tropes and each love interest all my favorite kinds of love interests 😅
January 17, 2023
I loooved it. Gosh, this author writes the best chemistry ever. Seriously, I don't know how she manages to make even the smallest interactions to become the hottest reading experiences - but I hope she never stops.
I agree with Rain's review, each POV was so well written, it waas easy to understand who was talking at what moment and it was extremely important for a book with four main characters.
And I loved each of them!
It's not easy to write a polyamorous book (I've read a few horrible examples) but Lark managed to put everything in such a wonderful way, didn't skip over important issues, and I believed every moment.
It was hot, fun, and romantic.
I agree with Rain's review, each POV was so well written, it waas easy to understand who was talking at what moment and it was extremely important for a book with four main characters.
And I loved each of them!
It's not easy to write a polyamorous book (I've read a few horrible examples) but Lark managed to put everything in such a wonderful way, didn't skip over important issues, and I believed every moment.
It was hot, fun, and romantic.
February 24, 2022
I adore Lillian Lark. Full disclosure, we are mutuals on TikTok and I think she's just a great person and great author.
I was super excited for this book because I've enjoyed all her other books (especially Stalked by the Kraken, still my fav from her), and gargoyles are vastly underrepresented in monster romance. Also... that cover. CHILLS.
Lillian does a great job at building distinct character personalities, relationships, and history. In both this book and Three of Hearts the men have pre-existing relationships, and the heroines have to learn how to "add" to this.
I really liked Grace as a heroine. She's a plus sized and confident witch from a prestigious and buttoned up family that cares more about appearances than love. She craves the close family dynamic she's never had, and that's what she's seeking when she applies for a matchmaking program.
I don't want to give too many details about the plot of the book, as I went in blind and really enjoyed it (something I've been liking doing lately) - but it's obviously about Grace and three gargoyles who are part of an existing clan.
There were certain things I felt were a bit rushed, like
I will read anything Lillian writes, she is Monster Queen.
I was super excited for this book because I've enjoyed all her other books (especially Stalked by the Kraken, still my fav from her), and gargoyles are vastly underrepresented in monster romance. Also... that cover. CHILLS.
Lillian does a great job at building distinct character personalities, relationships, and history. In both this book and Three of Hearts the men have pre-existing relationships, and the heroines have to learn how to "add" to this.
I really liked Grace as a heroine. She's a plus sized and confident witch from a prestigious and buttoned up family that cares more about appearances than love. She craves the close family dynamic she's never had, and that's what she's seeking when she applies for a matchmaking program.
I don't want to give too many details about the plot of the book, as I went in blind and really enjoyed it (something I've been liking doing lately) - but it's obviously about Grace and three gargoyles who are part of an existing clan.
There were certain things I felt were a bit rushed, like
I will read anything Lillian writes, she is Monster Queen.
Read
December 14, 2022DNF @ 60%
This was another paranormal/sci-fi Kindle Unlimited/ audiobook via Scribd pairing… but I couldn’t get into it. *The rest will have relationship arrangement spoilers.*
I’m not a huge RH/Poly fan because typically all the focus is on the smut and not the relationship dynamic. There’re a few problems here but the biggest one is at 60% there’s barely been a whiff of smut, and nothing (feelings of the mc’s) is being explored.
The blurb sets this up (a little too well IMO), Gracie is a witch frustrated with the dating scene and decides to try a matchmaker. She’s matched with Elliot, a gargoyle that she has an instant spark, but he’s hiding a secret… two other mates. Problem 1- we already know what the “deceived” part is before even starting the book. Problem 2- the feelings of those deceived (Grace, Broderick, & Alasdair) is barely discussed. Basically, we’re told they’re hurt but immediately get over it because they all have the hots for each other. This was such a HUGE missed opportunity to explore and generate some actual angsty feels. How are there no feelings of jealousy, betrayal, inadequacy??!! Such a bummer. He’s kissing her and sleeping with them, and no one seems to care.
The other miss for me was the failure to paint a clear picture of their actual relationship. It’s described as a triad, the three men are mates… But, later we’re told that basically Broderick and Alasdair don’t really consider themselves true mates… they just share Eliott. And, they’ve allowed him to date outside their mating…What??
From Eliott-“You know neither of my mates mind me dating outside of the clan.”
From Alasdair- Broderick and I don’t consider ourselves each other’s mate. We’re physically intimate at times, but Elliot has always sparked different wants in us.
We’re both mated to the same male and at the beginning, had to navigate the feelings that came with.
From Broderick- Ours is a love that is closer to friendship than mates, but from time to time we give each other a hand, or a mouth.”
Bottom Line- This is too long and lacks the spice to be a smut read but lacks any emotional connection to be a romance. I feel zero connecting them except lust. At this point I’m over halfway through and there’s been 4 (I think) vanilla sex scenes all done separately in groups of two. And, I’ve been told how they’re feeling but feel nothing. Not to mention, I feel zero chemistry or loyalty from any of them. IMO, they needed to work on their triad before ever thinking about adding to the mix. 🤷♀️It feels like 4 friends with benefits- not mates.
This was another paranormal/sci-fi Kindle Unlimited/ audiobook via Scribd pairing… but I couldn’t get into it. *The rest will have relationship arrangement spoilers.*
I’m not a huge RH/Poly fan because typically all the focus is on the smut and not the relationship dynamic. There’re a few problems here but the biggest one is at 60% there’s barely been a whiff of smut, and nothing (feelings of the mc’s) is being explored.
The blurb sets this up (a little too well IMO), Gracie is a witch frustrated with the dating scene and decides to try a matchmaker. She’s matched with Elliot, a gargoyle that she has an instant spark, but he’s hiding a secret… two other mates. Problem 1- we already know what the “deceived” part is before even starting the book. Problem 2- the feelings of those deceived (Grace, Broderick, & Alasdair) is barely discussed. Basically, we’re told they’re hurt but immediately get over it because they all have the hots for each other. This was such a HUGE missed opportunity to explore and generate some actual angsty feels. How are there no feelings of jealousy, betrayal, inadequacy??!! Such a bummer. He’s kissing her and sleeping with them, and no one seems to care.
The other miss for me was the failure to paint a clear picture of their actual relationship. It’s described as a triad, the three men are mates… But, later we’re told that basically Broderick and Alasdair don’t really consider themselves true mates… they just share Eliott. And, they’ve allowed him to date outside their mating…What??
From Eliott-“You know neither of my mates mind me dating outside of the clan.”
From Alasdair- Broderick and I don’t consider ourselves each other’s mate. We’re physically intimate at times, but Elliot has always sparked different wants in us.
We’re both mated to the same male and at the beginning, had to navigate the feelings that came with.
From Broderick- Ours is a love that is closer to friendship than mates, but from time to time we give each other a hand, or a mouth.”
Bottom Line- This is too long and lacks the spice to be a smut read but lacks any emotional connection to be a romance. I feel zero connecting them except lust. At this point I’m over halfway through and there’s been 4 (I think) vanilla sex scenes all done separately in groups of two. And, I’ve been told how they’re feeling but feel nothing. Not to mention, I feel zero chemistry or loyalty from any of them. IMO, they needed to work on their triad before ever thinking about adding to the mix. 🤷♀️It feels like 4 friends with benefits- not mates.
February 14, 2023
—Strong heroine & heroes with different personalities.
—Monster romance, emotional growth, found family, forced proximity.
—their relationships takes time to develop and I enjoyed that so much.
— scorching hot🔥.
— fantastic characterisation and loved all the secondary characters.
—story and characters had depth.
—Unique writing style and I enjoyed the language and dialogues.
Safe, KU and recommended.
—Monster romance, emotional growth, found family, forced proximity.
—their relationships takes time to develop and I enjoyed that so much.
— scorching hot🔥.
— fantastic characterisation and loved all the secondary characters.
—story and characters had depth.
—Unique writing style and I enjoyed the language and dialogues.
Safe, KU and recommended.
April 11, 2024
3,0 ✨✨✨
(Audiobook)
(Audiobook)
October 16, 2022
hmm...I liked but at the same time I had some issues.
So we have our h, Grace, who comes from a long line of prestigious witches- and she has always been told she doesn't quite measure up. Now enjoying her time as a librarian, Grace also wants romance and a family of her own. Hello matchmaker!
To her surprise Grace is immediately paired with a seriously sexy and fun man by the name of Elliot- and while they get along well and have great chemistry...it seems like he's holding back and hiding something.
Could this all be too good to be true?
x-----------------------------------x
So yeah, I had fun reading, but I didn't like the deception aspect that started off the romance too much and it kind of colored the rest of the story for me.
Sure I eventually got over it a bit later than the characters-but Elliot not only deceived his mates but made Grace a part of it without her consent. (it was talked about but I thought the forgiveness was pretty easy and quick)
Like what if Grace was only honestly interested in a monogamous relationship? That kinda stuff needs to be upfront and discussed with all parties before hand!
Also on a personal note- might just be me- but I'm not into reading harem or poly relationships that have an established unit and then add to it. Not talking real life- just in book the dynamics it doesn't always jive with me if you know what I mean?
Also, Also
All that being said I did enjoy the read overall- and If the above ^ is not a problem for you then I would suggest this book if you have KU if your looking for a quick fantasy RH/poly romance read.
So we have our h, Grace, who comes from a long line of prestigious witches- and she has always been told she doesn't quite measure up. Now enjoying her time as a librarian, Grace also wants romance and a family of her own. Hello matchmaker!
To her surprise Grace is immediately paired with a seriously sexy and fun man by the name of Elliot- and while they get along well and have great chemistry...it seems like he's holding back and hiding something.
Could this all be too good to be true?
x-----------------------------------x
So yeah, I had fun reading, but I didn't like the deception aspect that started off the romance too much and it kind of colored the rest of the story for me.
Sure I eventually got over it a bit later than the characters-but Elliot not only deceived his mates but made Grace a part of it without her consent. (it was talked about but I thought the forgiveness was pretty easy and quick)
Like what if Grace was only honestly interested in a monogamous relationship? That kinda stuff needs to be upfront and discussed with all parties before hand!
Also on a personal note- might just be me- but I'm not into reading harem or poly relationships that have an established unit and then add to it. Not talking real life- just in book the dynamics it doesn't always jive with me if you know what I mean?
Also, Also
All that being said I did enjoy the read overall- and If the above ^ is not a problem for you then I would suggest this book if you have KU if your looking for a quick fantasy RH/poly romance read.
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October 16, 2023
4.25 ⭐️ Me and my infinite love for MMFM books!
I am so in love with this series, even though I'm reading through it backwards. I'm aware that I should have read this one before reading book #3, but I wanted to know about the basilisks, ok?-what can I say?
Here we get Grace, a witch whose magic is considered inferior by those of her own kind and her abusive family. Tired of going on useless and frustrating dates, she decides to visit a matchmaker to hopefully make her dream come true: to have a loving family. After being matched with the wonderful gargoyle Elliot, she thinks she might have found the one... except Elliot is keeping quite a handful of secrets that could ruin everything for them. Especially since one of them is that he's already mated to two other male gargoyles.
I loved this book. I love MM romances, I love FM romances, and then there are books like this one, where they intermix and poly love seeps from every page -and I just can't get enough. I usually like the brooding, quiet kind of MMCs, especially when they have their own POV chapters and we can read about their thoughts and feelings even when they don't express them. That happens here, but I didn't really connect a lot with Alasdair. Elliot and Broderick were amazing and I loved them, but Alasdair gave me grief for most of the book. I didn't think him inconsequential, but I think I would've been happy if he and Grace had never really solidified into a romantic relationship -kind of like what Broderick and Alasdair's relationship is like. They are metamours and love each other in a platonic sort of way, and I think I may have enjoyed this book a bit more if Grace and Alasdair would've had that too.
Still, the ending is great -predictable- but incredibly appropriate and fitting for the plot. I 100% recommend this book to any and all who are looking for a top-tier monster romance!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25 / 5
🌶🌶🌶.5 / 5 *(Also, FYI, the cüm/breëding k!nk here is insanely good, so beware).
I am so in love with this series, even though I'm reading through it backwards. I'm aware that I should have read this one before reading book #3, but I wanted to know about the basilisks, ok?-what can I say?
Here we get Grace, a witch whose magic is considered inferior by those of her own kind and her abusive family. Tired of going on useless and frustrating dates, she decides to visit a matchmaker to hopefully make her dream come true: to have a loving family. After being matched with the wonderful gargoyle Elliot, she thinks she might have found the one... except Elliot is keeping quite a handful of secrets that could ruin everything for them. Especially since one of them is that he's already mated to two other male gargoyles.
I loved this book. I love MM romances, I love FM romances, and then there are books like this one, where they intermix and poly love seeps from every page -and I just can't get enough. I usually like the brooding, quiet kind of MMCs, especially when they have their own POV chapters and we can read about their thoughts and feelings even when they don't express them. That happens here, but I didn't really connect a lot with Alasdair. Elliot and Broderick were amazing and I loved them, but Alasdair gave me grief for most of the book. I didn't think him inconsequential, but I think I would've been happy if he and Grace had never really solidified into a romantic relationship -kind of like what Broderick and Alasdair's relationship is like. They are metamours and love each other in a platonic sort of way, and I think I may have enjoyed this book a bit more if Grace and Alasdair would've had that too.
Still, the ending is great -predictable- but incredibly appropriate and fitting for the plot. I 100% recommend this book to any and all who are looking for a top-tier monster romance!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25 / 5
🌶🌶🌶.5 / 5 *(Also, FYI, the cüm/breëding k!nk here is insanely good, so beware).
February 20, 2022
An enjoyable sweet polyamory monster romance. Here the heroine Grace actually enters an already established mate circle slotting in like a cog they never even realised was missing. This is set in a world of humans and the paranormal. The humans are unaware of the supernatural beings living right amongst them. Grace is from a prominent witch clan and she has never felt she fitted in with her family who constantly berate her choices Job and even her appearance.
Wanting a family she can call her own she contracts a supernatural matchmaker service to find her a mate and it’s here she meets Elliot. Everything about Eliot draws Grace in and she’s not even put off by the fact that he’s a gargoyle and it’s not long before she’s falling deep. But Elliot hasn’t been exactly truthful he already has two mates at home but from the moment he spots Grace, he knows that she is the one they need to complete their little family. He just now needs to convince her as well as Broderick and Alasdair.
This was a very sweet romance and courtship but it was also spicy hot and had lots of chemistry. It did manage to strike a good balance between the two. It’s told from multiple POVs and all the male gargoyles had their own distinct personality’s. Elliot was the fun mischievous one a bit of a schemer and a lot of a brat. He likes to cook hover and mother Grace he’s definitely the more submissive one of the triad except with Grace that is. whilst Broderick is artsy passionate and caring and Alasdair is all dominant serious stoic protector, he’s not one to reveal his emotions easily and struggles to express this side of himself he also has zero experience courting a woman. Between them, they have everything on Grace's must-have list.
At times this did feel a little plodding and it was very instalove and then any problems did resolve fairly easily but It also then had such a feel-good vibe. It’s not an overly complicated story. There’s some danger thrown in for good measure and overall it’s a solid read. I liked the unique aspect of having an already established relationship and to clarify Alasdair and Broderick are both Elliot’s mates here but not each other’s though they do play occasionally for Elliot’s benefit. Grace though will be mating and courting all three gargoyles.
This was well written and if you're looking for something that’s a bit different and where you don’t have to think too much this should work for you. It’s essentially a very spicy but sweet multi gargoyle romance.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
January 22, 2023
This was fun, I really liked the polyam relationship and Grace as a character. It was fun to see how the three gargoyles combined to make up her perfect mate. It did have some breeding kink which is not my favorite.
January 27, 2022
Thank you, Lillian Lark, for sending me an ARC for this book. I have been eager to get my hands on this romance since Rose and Gideon :)
In a poly romance that began by making me nervous with the deception and lies made with good intentions, I was happy to see the conflict stick and a focus on apologies and rebuilding take form. This is a romance that not only prioritizes open communication and the importance of transparency, but a special focus in the varying boundaries when it came to intimacy (in all its forms) between our Main character Grace and the three Gargoyles whose clan she is being courted to enter.
I thoroughly enjoyed that in spite of the timeline of the overall story being short, the relationship-building feels stretched out. There are are varying build-ups to characters saying, "I love you" and it was nice to see the different members of the romance moving at different paces with Grace. I also really loved the distinct personalities of the gargoyles and how chemistry manifested very differently for all of them.
A monster romance that's equal parts thoughtful and steamy with a nice cameo from book 1 and an interesting set-up for what seems to be book 3 👀
CW: explicit sexual content, references to child abandonment, abusive parents/family, death, grief, stalking, assault, brief reference to body shaming
In a poly romance that began by making me nervous with the deception and lies made with good intentions, I was happy to see the conflict stick and a focus on apologies and rebuilding take form. This is a romance that not only prioritizes open communication and the importance of transparency, but a special focus in the varying boundaries when it came to intimacy (in all its forms) between our Main character Grace and the three Gargoyles whose clan she is being courted to enter.
I thoroughly enjoyed that in spite of the timeline of the overall story being short, the relationship-building feels stretched out. There are are varying build-ups to characters saying, "I love you" and it was nice to see the different members of the romance moving at different paces with Grace. I also really loved the distinct personalities of the gargoyles and how chemistry manifested very differently for all of them.
A monster romance that's equal parts thoughtful and steamy with a nice cameo from book 1 and an interesting set-up for what seems to be book 3 👀
CW: explicit sexual content, references to child abandonment, abusive parents/family, death, grief, stalking, assault, brief reference to body shaming
January 15, 2022
I received this book as an ARC from the author. I am a huge fan of Lillian's books! She has had me HOOKED since Three of Hearts! I can see Lillian's writing getting stronger with each book she has published, but I can honestly say I never expected her to be able to write a story that would beat out Three of Hearts as my favorite romance. However, she has finally done it! Every single one of her characters pulls on my heart strings, but this story elevates that for me. She touches on each characters sense of rejection from their own family and just how much finding this particular chosen family has healed those wounds, which brought so much to the table in terms of the emotional satisfaction of reading this book! The relationship featured is a poly RH and the spice is so incredibly written! Please be sure to check the TW on the first page before reading, but I sincerely do not think you will be disappointed!
January 17, 2022
I was lucky enough to get an ARC and Im so trilled I did.
This is a spicy RH/polyam monster romance
✔Big Winged Men 🦇
✔Group Activity >.> ⚔
✔Size Difference and🪢
✔Plus Sized FMC 💋
This book follows a witch whos gift is reading objects, paper especially. She can see emotions and thoughts connected to an object. After a string of horrible dates (mostly due to her family name being connected to snoody jerks) she decided to visit her old friend and match maker. Being set up with what seemed to be the perfect man. He is beautiful, funny and knows all the best places to eat, and checks off a bunch of her boxes. But he is holding back and she quickly finds out why and what being with him and his... family will mean
I highly recommend this book and the rest of Lillians work!
This is a spicy RH/polyam monster romance
✔Big Winged Men 🦇
✔Group Activity >.> ⚔
✔Size Difference and🪢
✔Plus Sized FMC 💋
This book follows a witch whos gift is reading objects, paper especially. She can see emotions and thoughts connected to an object. After a string of horrible dates (mostly due to her family name being connected to snoody jerks) she decided to visit her old friend and match maker. Being set up with what seemed to be the perfect man. He is beautiful, funny and knows all the best places to eat, and checks off a bunch of her boxes. But he is holding back and she quickly finds out why and what being with him and his... family will mean
I highly recommend this book and the rest of Lillians work!
March 26, 2023
A witch named Grace finds herself in a courtship with a preexisting throuple of Gargoyles.
Gargoyles that have KNOTS. And they're growl-y and protective and dote on the FMC.
I adore the way Lillian Lark writes characters. They feel so substantial, distinct, and real (despite the fact that this features a witch, gargoyles, and a demon lol). My only gripe is how instalove and quick their relationship progresses.
Other than that, this is high heat (NOT slow burn at all) and I highly recommend if you're interested in seeing 3 males make an absolute mess of the heroine.
Rating 3.25 out of 5 stars.
Gargoyles that have KNOTS. And they're growl-y and protective and dote on the FMC.
I adore the way Lillian Lark writes characters. They feel so substantial, distinct, and real (despite the fact that this features a witch, gargoyles, and a demon lol). My only gripe is how instalove and quick their relationship progresses.
Other than that, this is high heat (NOT slow burn at all) and I highly recommend if you're interested in seeing 3 males make an absolute mess of the heroine.
Rating 3.25 out of 5 stars.
April 25, 2022
Deceived by the Gargoyles by Lillian Lark
Monstrous Matches book 2. Paranormal romance with considerable erotica elements. Present tense. Multiple POV, all in first person. Polyamory.
Grace longs for a family of her own. She goes to a matchmaker to find that family. She gets more than she bargained for but somehow it’s the perfect match, match, match.
For me, it was too many first person POV’s. Most were Grace but each of the matches males also had chapters. Highly erotic with sharing, voyeurism, and tails.
My favorite line:
They gave me a library. Consider me seduced.
Monstrous Matches book 2. Paranormal romance with considerable erotica elements. Present tense. Multiple POV, all in first person. Polyamory.
Grace longs for a family of her own. She goes to a matchmaker to find that family. She gets more than she bargained for but somehow it’s the perfect match, match, match.
For me, it was too many first person POV’s. Most were Grace but each of the matches males also had chapters. Highly erotic with sharing, voyeurism, and tails.
My favorite line:
They gave me a library. Consider me seduced.
September 30, 2023
Had to DNF this one. I don’t know how this book ends. It probably has some sort of twisted HEA. But I physically cannot do this « multiple mates » thing, especially not since the main love interest starts everything by lying, hiding and deceiving everyone involved. Hard pass. I don’t think I would have warmed up to Eliot at all. Or to whoever else.
February 6, 2022
Disappointed
Well, it's a shame rating this book so poorly considering everybody seems to love it so much😅😕 Personally I very much prefered the first book of the serie about Rose and her kraken.
I really had to motivate myself finishing this book because for me everything was done after only 20% of the story. This is the time when Eloise discovered Elliot's deception and forgave him only a few hours after because she "likes him"🙄 That's it!
After that, the only interesting things in the story were the slow building relationship with Alastair and maybe the stalking thing with Theo but this sounded so predictable it didn't keep me entertained.
I expected Eloise being much more reluctant to forgive Elliot and making him work hard for her pardon. Here some pondering would have been more realistic and have given the impression that Eloise isn't totally desperate to find love. The problem is that she wanted so much a family that her forgiveness and sudden acceptance of a group relationship seemed rushed. So there was a lack of connection between the characters and it was a bit too "instalove" for me.
I will maybe read the next one about Emilia but I didn't really like her character...😕
Well, it's a shame rating this book so poorly considering everybody seems to love it so much😅😕 Personally I very much prefered the first book of the serie about Rose and her kraken.
I really had to motivate myself finishing this book because for me everything was done after only 20% of the story. This is the time when Eloise discovered Elliot's deception and forgave him only a few hours after because she "likes him"🙄 That's it!
After that, the only interesting things in the story were the slow building relationship with Alastair and maybe the stalking thing with Theo but this sounded so predictable it didn't keep me entertained.
I expected Eloise being much more reluctant to forgive Elliot and making him work hard for her pardon. Here some pondering would have been more realistic and have given the impression that Eloise isn't totally desperate to find love. The problem is that she wanted so much a family that her forgiveness and sudden acceptance of a group relationship seemed rushed. So there was a lack of connection between the characters and it was a bit too "instalove" for me.
I will maybe read the next one about Emilia but I didn't really like her character...😕
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