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House of Stone
A modern knight, a noble quest, and a magical sword. What could go wrong?
Welcome to the City, where gods run nightclubs, goblins hire out as mercs, sorcerers work their magic, the Fae hold court over every neighborhood…and humanity is blissfully ignorant of it all.
For minor Fae noble Richard Stone, life is going well. He has a decent fiefdom (okay, it’s a slum), a budding acting career (okay, so it’s porn), and one of only five magical swords in the City. An arranged marriage is barely a blip on his worry meter—until his family blade loses its magic. The shame of it puts his noble standing in jeopardy.
To regain his status, Richard needs help. Fortunately, his new bride is a sidhe knight and his servant Simaron has, er, his back. Together they embark on a quest to find the demon who slew his father, investigate a conspiracy that goes to the highest echelons of Fae nobility, and discover a secret family legacy that could ruin his House.
All while keeping up appearances to a society that demands perfection. And they say a noble’s life is easy…
This book contains explicit gay sex, not-so-explicit gay sex, explicitly implied gay sex, routine breaking of the fourth wall, occasional bouts of Pearl Jam fanboy-ism, and plot. Side effects include confusion and headaches, and are best avoided by reading the pages therein in numerical order.
Welcome to the City, where gods run nightclubs, goblins hire out as mercs, sorcerers work their magic, the Fae hold court over every neighborhood…and humanity is blissfully ignorant of it all.
For minor Fae noble Richard Stone, life is going well. He has a decent fiefdom (okay, it’s a slum), a budding acting career (okay, so it’s porn), and one of only five magical swords in the City. An arranged marriage is barely a blip on his worry meter—until his family blade loses its magic. The shame of it puts his noble standing in jeopardy.
To regain his status, Richard needs help. Fortunately, his new bride is a sidhe knight and his servant Simaron has, er, his back. Together they embark on a quest to find the demon who slew his father, investigate a conspiracy that goes to the highest echelons of Fae nobility, and discover a secret family legacy that could ruin his House.
All while keeping up appearances to a society that demands perfection. And they say a noble’s life is easy…
This book contains explicit gay sex, not-so-explicit gay sex, explicitly implied gay sex, routine breaking of the fourth wall, occasional bouts of Pearl Jam fanboy-ism, and plot. Side effects include confusion and headaches, and are best avoided by reading the pages therein in numerical order.
298 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 22, 2010
6 people are currently reading
462 people want to read
About the author
Vaughn R. Demont
19 books153 followersWriter, Scorpio, and self-professed waffle-addict, Vaughn R. Demont received his Bachelor of Arts from Oswego State University, and his Master of Fine Arts from Goddard College, where he studied Creative Writing and being poor. He has published several novelettes and novellas, including The Last Paladin series, House of Stone, the Broken Mirrors series, and the new Blackwarren Heists series.
Vaughn currently lives in Central New York, where he is working on his next novel.
Vaughn currently lives in Central New York, where he is working on his next novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
March 23, 2016
Well, stab me in the face—that was plain fun.
I have difficulty understanding how (given the extent of my god-like powers) a writer like this can toil away so productively for so long without coming to my attention.
No matter. I see him now.
This was great.
A little tough; a little too ....chewy, with regards to the plot. But it's entirely because Mr. Demont's imagination is so fertile he casts fascinating and meaty ideas out upon the page like a rabbit poops: in discrete little balls of perfect symmetry—more or less constantly.
But beyond the twisty density of the plot, this thing went from runway to Mach-4 like a Harrier: straight up in the air, baby.
Ignore the cover. Ignore both covers—neither serve this story as well as it deserves.
With a pace that rockets along without cease until a denouement so intensely badass I forgot to trawl twitter for two days, this book places me firmly on #TeamDemont.
Recommended, and with relish.
I have difficulty understanding how (given the extent of my god-like powers) a writer like this can toil away so productively for so long without coming to my attention.
No matter. I see him now.
This was great.
A little tough; a little too ....chewy, with regards to the plot. But it's entirely because Mr. Demont's imagination is so fertile he casts fascinating and meaty ideas out upon the page like a rabbit poops: in discrete little balls of perfect symmetry—more or less constantly.
But beyond the twisty density of the plot, this thing went from runway to Mach-4 like a Harrier: straight up in the air, baby.
Ignore the cover. Ignore both covers—neither serve this story as well as it deserves.
With a pace that rockets along without cease until a denouement so intensely badass I forgot to trawl twitter for two days, this book places me firmly on #TeamDemont.
Recommended, and with relish.
September 13, 2014
So nice I read it twice.
Vaughn Demont is our September 2014 Author of the Month. My pal Sunny and I loved this book so much we decided to buddy re-read. Here's my thoughts...
Announcing Her Grace, Duchess Ariana Kathryn Josephine Jenni Lea Fuschiamane, Lady of the House of Knots, Champion of the Pregnant Males, Defender of the Shifters, Warden of the Stable Boys and Guardian of Her Two Front Teeth:
That was fantastic! A perfect balance of action, adventure, drama, romance and humor. Exquisitely detailed, the complexities of the story made my heart leap whenever I discovered yet another twist in the plot. I was on the edge of my seat throughout the entire book.
Vaughn Demont put so much depth into this story that I felt as though I was actually there. I think that stems from his complete and total mastery of the fourth wall. Rarely have I read a book that knows how to break through that fourth wall correctly. He makes it feel as though you're not reading the story but that the main character is relating it to you as he stands next to you. Now that's talent!
And such details! I could see everything, hear everything. I had such a clear picture in my mind.whilst reading.
And the best part (for me, at least) is all the humor and emotions that are infused in the story. Oh, the feels! Mr. Demont certainly has a firm grasp on how it feels to love. *sigh*
I recommend this book to anyone out there that is looking for a wild adventure filled with hope, betrayal, swordplay, car crashes, secrets and fun. Read it people! This is my decree.
****************************************************************
ORIGINAL REVIEW 11/26/13:
4.5 stars
That was fantastic! A perfect balance of action, adventure, drama, romance and humor. Exquisitely detailed, the complexities of the story made my heart leap whenever I discovered yet another twist in the plot. I was on the edge of my seat throughout the entire book.
How is it I've never heard of this author?
Full review, including Sunny's thoughts, available on the blog.
Vaughn Demont is our September 2014 Author of the Month. My pal Sunny and I loved this book so much we decided to buddy re-read. Here's my thoughts...
Announcing Her Grace, Duchess Ariana Kathryn Josephine Jenni Lea Fuschiamane, Lady of the House of Knots, Champion of the Pregnant Males, Defender of the Shifters, Warden of the Stable Boys and Guardian of Her Two Front Teeth:
That was fantastic! A perfect balance of action, adventure, drama, romance and humor. Exquisitely detailed, the complexities of the story made my heart leap whenever I discovered yet another twist in the plot. I was on the edge of my seat throughout the entire book.
Vaughn Demont put so much depth into this story that I felt as though I was actually there. I think that stems from his complete and total mastery of the fourth wall. Rarely have I read a book that knows how to break through that fourth wall correctly. He makes it feel as though you're not reading the story but that the main character is relating it to you as he stands next to you. Now that's talent!
And such details! I could see everything, hear everything. I had such a clear picture in my mind.whilst reading.
And the best part (for me, at least) is all the humor and emotions that are infused in the story. Oh, the feels! Mr. Demont certainly has a firm grasp on how it feels to love. *sigh*
I recommend this book to anyone out there that is looking for a wild adventure filled with hope, betrayal, swordplay, car crashes, secrets and fun. Read it people! This is my decree.
****************************************************************
ORIGINAL REVIEW 11/26/13:
4.5 stars
That was fantastic! A perfect balance of action, adventure, drama, romance and humor. Exquisitely detailed, the complexities of the story made my heart leap whenever I discovered yet another twist in the plot. I was on the edge of my seat throughout the entire book.
How is it I've never heard of this author?
Full review, including Sunny's thoughts, available on the blog.
August 11, 2016
ETA: Mr. Demont is Author of the Month at Boy Meets Boy Reviews, and Jenni Lea and I couldn't resist doing a re-read of this fabulous story. See our review here.
Updated review September 11, 2014:
Take one minor Fae noble who also happens to be a snarky (and ginger!) porn star and one ever so proper, half blood manservant, throw in some intrigue, and you get a crazy, fun filled, sexy adventure with moments of nail biting suspense. Incredibly entertaining, reminiscent of Month Python or Mel Brooks, but darker and more intense.
I have to start with the characters because they made the story for me. Richard and Sim were so well drawn, and with such distinctive personalities, I couldn't get enough of them. Their complex relationship was full of humor, and a sweet devotion to each other. I loved every bit of it.
The world building was also well done, with so many great details. I admit there were moments I got a little lost in all those details, though. Part of the confusion was probably due to Richard being the one who shared the information. He tended to ramble, and sometimes threw out facts without full explanation, leaving the reader to try fitting it all in to the existing framework.
The story, though! What a story! A unique and intricate plot containing surprising twists and turns. Definitely a rollercoaster of a ride. As things came together, you could see the genius of it all. I loved the intrigue and how everything played out. It was so intense! Especially the climax.
Me, during said climax: "OMG! OMG! OMG!"
Stunning.
*bows to Mr. Demont*
************************************************************
Original review January 8, 2014:
Jenni Lea, thank you for bringing this epic story to my attention, and Julio, thank you for reminding me I wanted to take a peek. That peek led to an exhilarating, fantastical time.
See their reviews, they nailed it.
What a story.
Updated review September 11, 2014:
Take one minor Fae noble who also happens to be a snarky (and ginger!) porn star and one ever so proper, half blood manservant, throw in some intrigue, and you get a crazy, fun filled, sexy adventure with moments of nail biting suspense. Incredibly entertaining, reminiscent of Month Python or Mel Brooks, but darker and more intense.
I have to start with the characters because they made the story for me. Richard and Sim were so well drawn, and with such distinctive personalities, I couldn't get enough of them. Their complex relationship was full of humor, and a sweet devotion to each other. I loved every bit of it.
The world building was also well done, with so many great details. I admit there were moments I got a little lost in all those details, though. Part of the confusion was probably due to Richard being the one who shared the information. He tended to ramble, and sometimes threw out facts without full explanation, leaving the reader to try fitting it all in to the existing framework.
The story, though! What a story! A unique and intricate plot containing surprising twists and turns. Definitely a rollercoaster of a ride. As things came together, you could see the genius of it all. I loved the intrigue and how everything played out. It was so intense! Especially the climax.
Me, during said climax: "OMG! OMG! OMG!"
Stunning.
*bows to Mr. Demont*
************************************************************
Original review January 8, 2014:
Jenni Lea, thank you for bringing this epic story to my attention, and Julio, thank you for reminding me I wanted to take a peek. That peek led to an exhilarating, fantastical time.
See their reviews, they nailed it.
What a story.
November 19, 2013
One of the better urban fantasy books I've read in awhile the fact it's m/m is just icing on the cake. I like the world building, and the idea of fairies in this story. It's a slightly different take on things, without being too silly or different for the sake of being different. The characters are complex, and well developed. I liked seeing how Richard developed, and grew over the course of the story. It's nice to read something where the main character manages to learn, and mature over the course of the story especially when it's almost in spite of themselves. The child character felt like a child, and wasn't too wise beyond her years no matter what her powers were. The plot is nicely convoluted, and I liked following the twists, and turns it took. I'm really looking forward to reading more. I stayed up passed my bedtime to finish this one. It made for a hard morning, but I don’t regret it.
December 2, 2013
4.5 Stars
Wow. Just ... wow. I LOVED this. Vaughn R. Demont has a new fan!
This story takes place in the City. There are gods, demons, goblins, Fae, sorcerers, humans, and half-bloods. Richard Stone is a minor Fae noble and porn star. Yup, porn star. Sounds like he'd be a pompous ass, right? But he's not. He's actually a pretty good guy. He's got a bunch of responsibilities and obligations (goes hand-in-hand with being a Count), including being the keeper of one of only five magical swords in the City. On his way to get hitched in an arranged marriage, Richard discovers that his family blade is on the blink. No magic; sorry, Charlie. This is big and Richard is screwed ... not in a good way. He must regain his rightful status and fix this or be shamed into oblivion (read: a commoner). With his new bride (Jen, a sidhe knight) and his manservant (Simaron) by his side, Richard goes for broke.
This book swept me off my feet and into an intriguing wold of mystics and mystery. The world building was amazing. First off, I loved Richard. You have to or you won't enjoy this book. As the narrator, everything is told from his POV, which includes his stream of consciousness, if you will. He's witty, snarky, and fun. Granted, this isn't a "fast" read. Not because the story is slow-moving (it's the opposite, in fact) but because the dialogue is funny, fresh and filled with subtleties and nuances. I don't like to make comparisons but to provide some context in this case, I will: in some ways, this book felt and read like The Dresden Files by Jim Butcher. Now, there are obvious differences (hello, this is m/m ... YAY!) but if you're a fan of JB's work (as I am), I think you'll understand. Richard is a good guy but flawed (my favorite type of protagonist). We watch him screw up and we watch him do it sooooo right. It's exciting, entertaining, and - in my opinion - one hell of a ride.
Okay, I have to mention Simaron. I loved, Loved, LOVED him. His character was so original and interesting. The relationship between he and Richard warmed my heart. It was truly romantic! I also thoroughly enjoyed the supporting characters. They made for a very robust story.
Bottom-line: a first-rate urban fantasy, m/m style. Highly recommend!
Wow. Just ... wow. I LOVED this. Vaughn R. Demont has a new fan!
This story takes place in the City. There are gods, demons, goblins, Fae, sorcerers, humans, and half-bloods. Richard Stone is a minor Fae noble and porn star. Yup, porn star. Sounds like he'd be a pompous ass, right? But he's not. He's actually a pretty good guy. He's got a bunch of responsibilities and obligations (goes hand-in-hand with being a Count), including being the keeper of one of only five magical swords in the City. On his way to get hitched in an arranged marriage, Richard discovers that his family blade is on the blink. No magic; sorry, Charlie. This is big and Richard is screwed ... not in a good way. He must regain his rightful status and fix this or be shamed into oblivion (read: a commoner). With his new bride (Jen, a sidhe knight) and his manservant (Simaron) by his side, Richard goes for broke.
This book swept me off my feet and into an intriguing wold of mystics and mystery. The world building was amazing. First off, I loved Richard. You have to or you won't enjoy this book. As the narrator, everything is told from his POV, which includes his stream of consciousness, if you will. He's witty, snarky, and fun. Granted, this isn't a "fast" read. Not because the story is slow-moving (it's the opposite, in fact) but because the dialogue is funny, fresh and filled with subtleties and nuances. I don't like to make comparisons but to provide some context in this case, I will: in some ways, this book felt and read like The Dresden Files by Jim Butcher. Now, there are obvious differences (hello, this is m/m ... YAY!) but if you're a fan of JB's work (as I am), I think you'll understand. Richard is a good guy but flawed (my favorite type of protagonist). We watch him screw up and we watch him do it sooooo right. It's exciting, entertaining, and - in my opinion - one hell of a ride.
Okay, I have to mention Simaron. I loved, Loved, LOVED him. His character was so original and interesting. The relationship between he and Richard warmed my heart. It was truly romantic! I also thoroughly enjoyed the supporting characters. They made for a very robust story.
Bottom-line: a first-rate urban fantasy, m/m style. Highly recommend!
August 23, 2014
Review is now up on Prism Book Alliance
So, on the surface, as you may be reading the blurb for this story, you may be thinking, “Porn actor? Swords? Pearl Jam? Fae?! Shyeah, right.” Just stop right there, don’t even do the eye roll. This story is not your fourth-cousin-thrice-removed’s ‘urban fantasy'. It is, in fact, a cleverly crafted piece of fiction.
Let’s get right to it: he calls him Sim, and he “punishes” Sim by having Sim call him Richard. We’d had a few really good laps up to this point in the book, but this truly gets us off to the races. This is when I felt a wee bit of… glee. Yes, ok? Glee. I felt glee. Don’t even look at me like that, it’s true and you’ll feel it, too. HA.
When you build your own world, especially one that is a mix of highly recognizable “our world” details and those of total fantasy, your rules must be strong, ironclad in their believability and consistency. Well done, author, well fucking done. Why is this important? Because if that all isn’t there, you don’t get the tension, the consequences, the relief and joy when resolutions come. You don’t feel that right to be protective of this story and the people who make up its constantly changing rippling patterns of life. HA.
As many of you know, I like surprises in my books, I love not knowing what’s going to happen, that the story is written so that I have very little chance of figuring things out much before any character does the same. This also goes for unexpected emotion from a story that is filled with fun, snark, sarcasm, sexy banter and glowing swordplay. Yup, I like me some surprises and I gots ‘em here. HA.
When I think about what must have been the flowchart for this book, the mind reels and embraces the giddy. And yet, it’s not overwhelming, like when you feel no hope of keeping it all straight. Somehow, someway, I could follow the lines, crazy curves and all. I both enjoyed the experience and felt a sense of accomplishment, not unlike our man, Richard in a rare moment of victory and comprehension of the twisted nature of his City.
The surprises keep happening all the way through to the very end. There is one thing that we are not given, as a reward, and it would have been intense, incredible and indulgent perfection. All good, yeah? However, and I can’t believe I’m saying this, but to have included it would have slowed down the story, lessened the tension that vibrates through everything. So, from an editing standpoint, it was the better choice, even if it “robbed” me of that pure pleasure that it would have been.
The writing style fits the story, I never felt a mismatch. The dialogue flows and never felt halting or ever removed me from the story. The point of view completely drew me in and kept me there, made me a part of the whole shebang. Very smart.
You know how when you get to the end of a story, and you think back to how and where it all began, and you can’t believe you got to experience all of this in the span of a few hours, by reading? Proper storytelling, people. Reading IS fundamental. That is this book. Despite my “I wuz rawbbed” moment, I honestly can’t think of anything that disappointed or felt out of place or wasn’t connected inside the story or made me tilt my head and think, “huh… ok…” or anything like that.
So, for me, I think I have to make this a five-star, would definitely re-read, almost a comfort read type book because it was that kind of reading adventure. Oh, bonus: it caused me to make a brand new shelf in the form of ‘faves read in 2014’. I feel completely satisfied.
So, on the surface, as you may be reading the blurb for this story, you may be thinking, “Porn actor? Swords? Pearl Jam? Fae?! Shyeah, right.” Just stop right there, don’t even do the eye roll. This story is not your fourth-cousin-thrice-removed’s ‘urban fantasy'. It is, in fact, a cleverly crafted piece of fiction.
Let’s get right to it: he calls him Sim, and he “punishes” Sim by having Sim call him Richard. We’d had a few really good laps up to this point in the book, but this truly gets us off to the races. This is when I felt a wee bit of… glee. Yes, ok? Glee. I felt glee. Don’t even look at me like that, it’s true and you’ll feel it, too. HA.
When you build your own world, especially one that is a mix of highly recognizable “our world” details and those of total fantasy, your rules must be strong, ironclad in their believability and consistency. Well done, author, well fucking done. Why is this important? Because if that all isn’t there, you don’t get the tension, the consequences, the relief and joy when resolutions come. You don’t feel that right to be protective of this story and the people who make up its constantly changing rippling patterns of life. HA.
As many of you know, I like surprises in my books, I love not knowing what’s going to happen, that the story is written so that I have very little chance of figuring things out much before any character does the same. This also goes for unexpected emotion from a story that is filled with fun, snark, sarcasm, sexy banter and glowing swordplay. Yup, I like me some surprises and I gots ‘em here. HA.
When I think about what must have been the flowchart for this book, the mind reels and embraces the giddy. And yet, it’s not overwhelming, like when you feel no hope of keeping it all straight. Somehow, someway, I could follow the lines, crazy curves and all. I both enjoyed the experience and felt a sense of accomplishment, not unlike our man, Richard in a rare moment of victory and comprehension of the twisted nature of his City.
The surprises keep happening all the way through to the very end. There is one thing that we are not given, as a reward, and it would have been intense, incredible and indulgent perfection. All good, yeah? However, and I can’t believe I’m saying this, but to have included it would have slowed down the story, lessened the tension that vibrates through everything. So, from an editing standpoint, it was the better choice, even if it “robbed” me of that pure pleasure that it would have been.
The writing style fits the story, I never felt a mismatch. The dialogue flows and never felt halting or ever removed me from the story. The point of view completely drew me in and kept me there, made me a part of the whole shebang. Very smart.
You know how when you get to the end of a story, and you think back to how and where it all began, and you can’t believe you got to experience all of this in the span of a few hours, by reading? Proper storytelling, people. Reading IS fundamental. That is this book. Despite my “I wuz rawbbed” moment, I honestly can’t think of anything that disappointed or felt out of place or wasn’t connected inside the story or made me tilt my head and think, “huh… ok…” or anything like that.
So, for me, I think I have to make this a five-star, would definitely re-read, almost a comfort read type book because it was that kind of reading adventure. Oh, bonus: it caused me to make a brand new shelf in the form of ‘faves read in 2014’. I feel completely satisfied.
May 4, 2016
Richard Firemane is many things. He is Lord of the House of Stone. He is a Knight of the Realm. He is Viscount of the Benedict Shores. He is custodian of the Azure Blade. He is a blue-blooded Fae.
He’s also the star of the Assmaster series, a production of Blue Line Studios. And, apparently, he’s very good.
I loved the odd, wry, modern world in which Vaughn Demont has placed his anti-hero. I loved that he has disguised a very American city (given the Blue Line clue, possibly Chicago?) with Fae names, because the Fae care little for the human world and its geopolitics. I love Lord Stone’s snarky, world-weary language. He is a self-indulgent, callow young man who cares little for others.
The Fae live in their own dream world, and indeed are defined by the dreams of humans from whom they draw their existence, while providing humans with wonder and beauty in turn. The only humans who can see the Fae are those who are the progeny of interbreeding, and these half-bloods are shunned by the Fae, aristocracy and commoners alike. Richard is cared for by his half-human (and hence tainted) servant, Simaron Gray. Sim is appalled by his master’s lack of respect for Fae protocol; Richard finds Sim to be sexually convenient and enjoys irritating him.
Fae protocol is deeply rooted in honor and shame, in inherited prestige and rigid social hierarchy. While Richard may be gay—like many Fae nobles—he also must follow tradition and get married to produce an heir. When Richard is finally forced to marry a bride he’s never met, his haphazardly constructed life begins to unravel. As his true feelings for Sim begin to surface, a deadly subterfuge emerges, and the feckless Richard Firemane finds himself in a battle for everything he holds dear.
An excellent, moving and gripping fantasy, spiced with humor and tenderness.
He’s also the star of the Assmaster series, a production of Blue Line Studios. And, apparently, he’s very good.
I loved the odd, wry, modern world in which Vaughn Demont has placed his anti-hero. I loved that he has disguised a very American city (given the Blue Line clue, possibly Chicago?) with Fae names, because the Fae care little for the human world and its geopolitics. I love Lord Stone’s snarky, world-weary language. He is a self-indulgent, callow young man who cares little for others.
The Fae live in their own dream world, and indeed are defined by the dreams of humans from whom they draw their existence, while providing humans with wonder and beauty in turn. The only humans who can see the Fae are those who are the progeny of interbreeding, and these half-bloods are shunned by the Fae, aristocracy and commoners alike. Richard is cared for by his half-human (and hence tainted) servant, Simaron Gray. Sim is appalled by his master’s lack of respect for Fae protocol; Richard finds Sim to be sexually convenient and enjoys irritating him.
Fae protocol is deeply rooted in honor and shame, in inherited prestige and rigid social hierarchy. While Richard may be gay—like many Fae nobles—he also must follow tradition and get married to produce an heir. When Richard is finally forced to marry a bride he’s never met, his haphazardly constructed life begins to unravel. As his true feelings for Sim begin to surface, a deadly subterfuge emerges, and the feckless Richard Firemane finds himself in a battle for everything he holds dear.
An excellent, moving and gripping fantasy, spiced with humor and tenderness.
June 30, 2010
3.5 stars
House of Stone is an amusing, fun read much in the same vein as the previous offering by the same author, Vampire Fred. Those fans that enjoyed the engaging first person narrator of the previous book will also enjoy Richard, or Dick, here as he tells the reader about his adventures in the lands of the Fae. Richard has a self depreciating quality that lets you laugh along side his self absorbed, humorous actions. The entire story is told to the reader with Richard often telling background information and secondary information that’s needed and relevant to the world building and plot. So this is not a story you experience alongside the characters but one that told to you in amusing and often outlandish ways. For the most part it works but some of the narrator’s quirks do wear over the course of the story.
Immediately we’re introduced to Dick. He’s a viscount within Fae royalty and loosely oversees a patch of the city that is pretty close to a ghetto. He has the requisite mansion but has turned to doing gay porn films to pay for the property taxes. At the start of the film Dick is working on his latest film when he’s informed that he’s due to be married. Despite a close emotional and sexual relationship with his butler, Sim, Dick is pragmatic about his upcoming nuptials and he needs an heir anyway. Unfortunately Richard soon realizes that danger is afoot and mysteries abound involving his new wife, his family past, the family honor, and his half blood lover/butler.
The plot is decent with all the classic political machinations you expect of a ruling class. Here it’s just simply the Fae and there is some decent to pretty good world building and concepts drawn in. Some of the plot twists are predictable or humorous, but the even hand and quick pace keeps the story moving well. The narrator is Richard in first person, present tense. This may bother some readers but I didn’t have an issue with it. As I mentioned, Richard tells you the reader everything going on. He often pauses to relate some bit of information he feels is necessary. This is a double edged sword. While it conveys any world building, background information, and details the reader needs to know to follow along, it constantly reminds you that someone is telling you a story versus showing you.
Richard is a decent character and the most developed of the cast. He has an engaging voice and slacker mental attitude that you can’t help but like. He’s aware he’s lazy but he doesn’t really mind. Some of his habits start to grate over the course of the book, such as his constant saying “ye gods” which I quickly tired of and started to resent. However, he throws in humorous references such as the classic Princess Bride movie line that are fun additions. Yet these are juxtaposed to the deep suspicion that cell phones receive among the Fae. So the Fae can watch cult classics but not use cell phones? It’s a bit corny but then again, the book itself is in probably the most enjoyable ways. I didn’t hold this against the story and it remains a fun, enjoyable tale filled with epic creatures and life lessons.
Beyond Richard as the main character, the others revolve around his sphere but none of the other cast really comes alive. They’re enjoyable and entertaining in various ways but they feel largely incomplete and one note against the most developed character of Richard. There is Richard’s lover/butler/friend Sim who seems to bounce from personality to personality. First he’s an uptight butler, than he’s a passionate lover, than he’s an angry friend, and so on which shows different facets of his personality. Unfortunately all of these feel false and manipulated to give Richard whatever he needs at that time. This extends to all the other characters as well. From his new wife Jen to the mystics, the duke, the queen, and even his aunt, these men and women exist to support and prod Richard into life lessons and changed behavior. They rarely come across as independent entities.
Overall the House of Stone is a fun read filled with fantasy, adventure, and humor. Whether readers will enjoy the tale is largely based on their feelings for the narrator. If you enjoy a first person (present tense) narrator talking to you and telling you his story, this could be an entertaining romp. If you find this boring or too static, perhaps this isn’t for you. While not perfect I found it to be engaging and worth the time to read. As always make your own decisions.
House of Stone is an amusing, fun read much in the same vein as the previous offering by the same author, Vampire Fred. Those fans that enjoyed the engaging first person narrator of the previous book will also enjoy Richard, or Dick, here as he tells the reader about his adventures in the lands of the Fae. Richard has a self depreciating quality that lets you laugh along side his self absorbed, humorous actions. The entire story is told to the reader with Richard often telling background information and secondary information that’s needed and relevant to the world building and plot. So this is not a story you experience alongside the characters but one that told to you in amusing and often outlandish ways. For the most part it works but some of the narrator’s quirks do wear over the course of the story.
Immediately we’re introduced to Dick. He’s a viscount within Fae royalty and loosely oversees a patch of the city that is pretty close to a ghetto. He has the requisite mansion but has turned to doing gay porn films to pay for the property taxes. At the start of the film Dick is working on his latest film when he’s informed that he’s due to be married. Despite a close emotional and sexual relationship with his butler, Sim, Dick is pragmatic about his upcoming nuptials and he needs an heir anyway. Unfortunately Richard soon realizes that danger is afoot and mysteries abound involving his new wife, his family past, the family honor, and his half blood lover/butler.
The plot is decent with all the classic political machinations you expect of a ruling class. Here it’s just simply the Fae and there is some decent to pretty good world building and concepts drawn in. Some of the plot twists are predictable or humorous, but the even hand and quick pace keeps the story moving well. The narrator is Richard in first person, present tense. This may bother some readers but I didn’t have an issue with it. As I mentioned, Richard tells you the reader everything going on. He often pauses to relate some bit of information he feels is necessary. This is a double edged sword. While it conveys any world building, background information, and details the reader needs to know to follow along, it constantly reminds you that someone is telling you a story versus showing you.
Richard is a decent character and the most developed of the cast. He has an engaging voice and slacker mental attitude that you can’t help but like. He’s aware he’s lazy but he doesn’t really mind. Some of his habits start to grate over the course of the book, such as his constant saying “ye gods” which I quickly tired of and started to resent. However, he throws in humorous references such as the classic Princess Bride movie line that are fun additions. Yet these are juxtaposed to the deep suspicion that cell phones receive among the Fae. So the Fae can watch cult classics but not use cell phones? It’s a bit corny but then again, the book itself is in probably the most enjoyable ways. I didn’t hold this against the story and it remains a fun, enjoyable tale filled with epic creatures and life lessons.
Beyond Richard as the main character, the others revolve around his sphere but none of the other cast really comes alive. They’re enjoyable and entertaining in various ways but they feel largely incomplete and one note against the most developed character of Richard. There is Richard’s lover/butler/friend Sim who seems to bounce from personality to personality. First he’s an uptight butler, than he’s a passionate lover, than he’s an angry friend, and so on which shows different facets of his personality. Unfortunately all of these feel false and manipulated to give Richard whatever he needs at that time. This extends to all the other characters as well. From his new wife Jen to the mystics, the duke, the queen, and even his aunt, these men and women exist to support and prod Richard into life lessons and changed behavior. They rarely come across as independent entities.
Overall the House of Stone is a fun read filled with fantasy, adventure, and humor. Whether readers will enjoy the tale is largely based on their feelings for the narrator. If you enjoy a first person (present tense) narrator talking to you and telling you his story, this could be an entertaining romp. If you find this boring or too static, perhaps this isn’t for you. While not perfect I found it to be engaging and worth the time to read. As always make your own decisions.
June 24, 2010
Vaughn Demont returns to the City once again in his latest work "House of Stone", and I have to say that while it's clear Mr. Demont still has an issue or two with his writing execution, he's definitely moving in the right direction.
Let's start with the good: I've been reading Demont's City stories, and I have to say that Richard Stone's story is the strongest entry in the City canon thus far. The narrator is 1st person, as is the norm with Demont's stories, but is much more "user-friendly" that his previous narrators as he tends to explain any new terms or concepts to the reader. Granted, after a while some readers might see this as hand-holding, but for the reader making a first-time sojourn into Demont's ever-growing setting, it can be a bit of a relief.
Demont's humor is as always laced through the book, making Richard a definitely entertaining protagonist, and there are quite a few lines that stuck in my head after I finished reading.
The plot is more complex than his previous offerings, but better paced, there's no feeling that he was trying to shoehorn anything, and the subplots weave in nicely. The resolution, as can be expected, sets up a potential series, which I'll admit I'm hoping happens, as I certainly wouldn't mind reading more of Richard's ongoing story.
By far, though, the strongest element of the story is Richard's growth as a character. His transition from likable asshole to actually likable is believable and well-tracked.
Okay, onto the not-so-good: The language is good, but Demont tends to repeat himself here and there, and over-explain. I suspect this might be from the critiques levied at The Vampire Fred, but I'm hoping that Demont will tweak the balance a bit better in his next offering.
Next, Demont again seems to be finding difficulty in letting you know exactly what kind of story he's writing. Readers looking for steamy M/M scenes will be pleased with the beginning, but will more than likely lose interest as the story moves on. I noticed this with Vampire Fred as well: Demont will keep the story an M/M romance for a certain period into the book, and then suddenly you cross a line and it's urban fantasy. With "House of Stone", there's no real line to speak of, the M/M romance and urban fantasy are blended much better, but even though you can't see the line, you still get the feeling it's there.
The bottom line: I read it in two days, which is always a good sign, and its shortcomings are outshined by its triumphs. I'd recommend it, definitely. :) 4/5
Let's start with the good: I've been reading Demont's City stories, and I have to say that Richard Stone's story is the strongest entry in the City canon thus far. The narrator is 1st person, as is the norm with Demont's stories, but is much more "user-friendly" that his previous narrators as he tends to explain any new terms or concepts to the reader. Granted, after a while some readers might see this as hand-holding, but for the reader making a first-time sojourn into Demont's ever-growing setting, it can be a bit of a relief.
Demont's humor is as always laced through the book, making Richard a definitely entertaining protagonist, and there are quite a few lines that stuck in my head after I finished reading.
The plot is more complex than his previous offerings, but better paced, there's no feeling that he was trying to shoehorn anything, and the subplots weave in nicely. The resolution, as can be expected, sets up a potential series, which I'll admit I'm hoping happens, as I certainly wouldn't mind reading more of Richard's ongoing story.
By far, though, the strongest element of the story is Richard's growth as a character. His transition from likable asshole to actually likable is believable and well-tracked.
Okay, onto the not-so-good: The language is good, but Demont tends to repeat himself here and there, and over-explain. I suspect this might be from the critiques levied at The Vampire Fred, but I'm hoping that Demont will tweak the balance a bit better in his next offering.
Next, Demont again seems to be finding difficulty in letting you know exactly what kind of story he's writing. Readers looking for steamy M/M scenes will be pleased with the beginning, but will more than likely lose interest as the story moves on. I noticed this with Vampire Fred as well: Demont will keep the story an M/M romance for a certain period into the book, and then suddenly you cross a line and it's urban fantasy. With "House of Stone", there's no real line to speak of, the M/M romance and urban fantasy are blended much better, but even though you can't see the line, you still get the feeling it's there.
The bottom line: I read it in two days, which is always a good sign, and its shortcomings are outshined by its triumphs. I'd recommend it, definitely. :) 4/5
January 20, 2014
Alright, alright already, here's the actual review. I always think my reviews are a little pedantic and not all that exciting, but here goes.
First of all, obviously, I liked it. I was surprised I liked it, because the world building is frankly derivative to the point of sending me screaming for the high hills because if one more person gets hung up on the jockeying for political advantage in the Unseelie Court I am going to tear my hair out in frustration, to mix a few metaphors. Especially since this seems to be a literary convention rather than any solid basis in folklore. That said, the author seems to have a sly sense of humor and takes delicate little pokes at the convention.
He also successfully mixes romance with fantasy, which is no easy task. It's emotionally plausible despite all the Fae window dressing. The author is good at creating character with just a few literary strokes. And I loved the way he debunked the myth of the sword without making the revelation come out of left field.
The cover, BTW, while appealing in a cheesy fashion, is not a very good match for the story.
First of all, obviously, I liked it. I was surprised I liked it, because the world building is frankly derivative to the point of sending me screaming for the high hills because if one more person gets hung up on the jockeying for political advantage in the Unseelie Court I am going to tear my hair out in frustration, to mix a few metaphors. Especially since this seems to be a literary convention rather than any solid basis in folklore. That said, the author seems to have a sly sense of humor and takes delicate little pokes at the convention.
He also successfully mixes romance with fantasy, which is no easy task. It's emotionally plausible despite all the Fae window dressing. The author is good at creating character with just a few literary strokes. And I loved the way he debunked the myth of the sword without making the revelation come out of left field.
The cover, BTW, while appealing in a cheesy fashion, is not a very good match for the story.
August 7, 2014
Review originally posted at Three Dollar Bill Reviews
I found it hard to get into this story. The pace of the first half of it feels off. As if things haven’t quite started getting going yet. Stuff is happening and yet somehow it all still feels preliminary. The pace does improve after about the halfway mark, but by that point it had lost me really. I’d have skimmed the rest if I hadn’t been reading it for a review.
One reason could be the way the narrator gives us explanations of the world throughout the story. It’s probably not fair to call these “info dumps” as they are usually kept short and being in first person they don’t feel as dull as such things do in third person. But still, they do feel like interruptions and damage the forward momentum of the story. I started to glaze over at some of them, even when they were quite short. It’s tough to feel the proper reaction to an event in the story if we’re only given an explanation about what it means after we first see it happening.
The first person present tense narration is okay, but never really sparks into life. Richard’s voice isn’t distinctive enough. I didn’t find I warmed to him and never felt very engaged with him, which might be another reason I struggled to get through this story. He often didn’t appear that engaged himself. Even at moments of supposed high emotion he comes across a bit too cool and detached.
The other characters are either rather cliché – Jen, Richard’s wife, a kickass warrior chick without much depth – or rather inconsistent – like Sim, Richard’s valet and lover. Rather than making a gradual change from servant to equal I thought he jumped back and forth too much. Of course it’s natural he’d have some wobbles on the road, drop back to old behaviour patterns, but there’s too much jumping around for it to feel like a progression.
The ending is a bit too neat. I feel unsatisfied when a character does something brave and noble, makes a sacrifice, but then has what they’ve lost given back to them, along with more. To me that cheapens what they did. I like to see a sacrifice that sticks!
I’m not sure about the aspect of Richard being a porn star. It doesn’t serve much purpose in the story aside from supposedly being edgy or shocking. It doesn’t have much effect on the plot.
There are irritants too, like Sim having a twelve-and-a-half inch cock. I know he’s not fully human, but for goodness sake! And who counts half inches once you’ve got a foot-long anyway? Richard’s Pearl Jam fannishness just makes him appear immature. Having quite as many t-shirts for a band as he seems to have is kind of teenager-like. He has magical accelerated healing powers, so recovers more quickly from a car crash he’s in than a human would. The trouble is with that power is it means scenes where the character is in physical danger lose some of their sense of jeopardy.
It’s not a bad story as such, and the writing it clear and readable, the copy-editing good, but it just never quite caught on with me. Some things in it are tiresome and in general I didn’t feel emotionally connected enough to it. It took me nearly a week to finish it, and it should really have only taken a couple of days at that length. It’s okay, but for me no more than that.
Oh and in case the mention of a wife worries those of you who prefer m/m only and no surprise m/f or whatever sneaked in, rest assured the marriage is just an arranged political thing. The only sex scenes in the book are m/m.
I found it hard to get into this story. The pace of the first half of it feels off. As if things haven’t quite started getting going yet. Stuff is happening and yet somehow it all still feels preliminary. The pace does improve after about the halfway mark, but by that point it had lost me really. I’d have skimmed the rest if I hadn’t been reading it for a review.
One reason could be the way the narrator gives us explanations of the world throughout the story. It’s probably not fair to call these “info dumps” as they are usually kept short and being in first person they don’t feel as dull as such things do in third person. But still, they do feel like interruptions and damage the forward momentum of the story. I started to glaze over at some of them, even when they were quite short. It’s tough to feel the proper reaction to an event in the story if we’re only given an explanation about what it means after we first see it happening.
The first person present tense narration is okay, but never really sparks into life. Richard’s voice isn’t distinctive enough. I didn’t find I warmed to him and never felt very engaged with him, which might be another reason I struggled to get through this story. He often didn’t appear that engaged himself. Even at moments of supposed high emotion he comes across a bit too cool and detached.
The other characters are either rather cliché – Jen, Richard’s wife, a kickass warrior chick without much depth – or rather inconsistent – like Sim, Richard’s valet and lover. Rather than making a gradual change from servant to equal I thought he jumped back and forth too much. Of course it’s natural he’d have some wobbles on the road, drop back to old behaviour patterns, but there’s too much jumping around for it to feel like a progression.
The ending is a bit too neat. I feel unsatisfied when a character does something brave and noble, makes a sacrifice, but then has what they’ve lost given back to them, along with more. To me that cheapens what they did. I like to see a sacrifice that sticks!
I’m not sure about the aspect of Richard being a porn star. It doesn’t serve much purpose in the story aside from supposedly being edgy or shocking. It doesn’t have much effect on the plot.
There are irritants too, like Sim having a twelve-and-a-half inch cock. I know he’s not fully human, but for goodness sake! And who counts half inches once you’ve got a foot-long anyway? Richard’s Pearl Jam fannishness just makes him appear immature. Having quite as many t-shirts for a band as he seems to have is kind of teenager-like. He has magical accelerated healing powers, so recovers more quickly from a car crash he’s in than a human would. The trouble is with that power is it means scenes where the character is in physical danger lose some of their sense of jeopardy.
It’s not a bad story as such, and the writing it clear and readable, the copy-editing good, but it just never quite caught on with me. Some things in it are tiresome and in general I didn’t feel emotionally connected enough to it. It took me nearly a week to finish it, and it should really have only taken a couple of days at that length. It’s okay, but for me no more than that.
Oh and in case the mention of a wife worries those of you who prefer m/m only and no surprise m/f or whatever sneaked in, rest assured the marriage is just an arranged political thing. The only sex scenes in the book are m/m.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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August 29, 2010This fantasy novel by Vaughn R. Demont is a mess… a totally ingenious one! It mixes savage romance with fairy tale with erotica, but it manages to make it all a perfect melting pot.
Count Pembroke Kendrick Llewellyn Richard Firemane, Lord of the House of Stone, Knight of the Realm, Viscount of the Benedict Shores, and Custodian of the Azure Blade, Dick for his friends, is a sidhe nobleman, perfect in body and naughty in soul. He has to maintain the estate his father left him, and more important than the property he has to preserve all the artists living inside it. Since Richard is not exactly prone to the mastery of the swords brandishing, he decided for an alternative career that seems to fit him better: he is a porn star! But don’t worry, he is not disgracing his House, since he always tops… on the screen. But when he goes back home, he forces himself on his squires Simaron, imposing him to perform for his master… as a top. Sim is always complaining that what they are doing is not proper, that his sir should not lower himself, but it’s hard to make Richard understand, after all he has always had Sim by his side and you can say that Sim was and still is the only man Richard has really ever loved.
Meet Lady Delia Isolde Jennifer Heartwood, Daughter of Countess Isolde of the Emerald Shores, soon-to-be bride of Richard. As Richard himself she has not intention to oblige what nobility is expecting from her, she is after all a knight, and a better warrior than Richard will ever be. When indeed they married, Richard takes the first chance he has to go on a quest, a search that will lead him to discover some unexpected roots in his family tree.
The story starts almost as an erotica tale, with Richard first acting in a porn movie and than having a private performance with Sim. Even if the matter was pretty much earthly, the language was flowery and rich, and it was like reading a medieval bard describing a porn movie set. The author is plenty joking on all the common myths about both medieval savage romance than fairy tale, but he decided to turn upside down all of them, or maybe not: Lord Richard is a bored aristocrat who would prefer to sing and write poems all day long, but he has indeed to provide for his people; of course “working” is not in question, and so acting in the porn industry is the best option so far. He is probably in love with his squire Sim, but even if no one will forbid him to have a sexual intercourse with him, to be in love is highly forbidden; servants can be at the same level of cherished pet, but sooner or later he will have to marry with a woman and have an heir or two (one t spare).
It is strange because basically the author deals with all the story in a very light and funny way, and then suddenly decided it was time to make Richard pays for all his carelessness: not that he dispossessed Richard and Sim of their happily ever after, but in a way he made Richard pay his toll.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B003NX6U1E/?...
Count Pembroke Kendrick Llewellyn Richard Firemane, Lord of the House of Stone, Knight of the Realm, Viscount of the Benedict Shores, and Custodian of the Azure Blade, Dick for his friends, is a sidhe nobleman, perfect in body and naughty in soul. He has to maintain the estate his father left him, and more important than the property he has to preserve all the artists living inside it. Since Richard is not exactly prone to the mastery of the swords brandishing, he decided for an alternative career that seems to fit him better: he is a porn star! But don’t worry, he is not disgracing his House, since he always tops… on the screen. But when he goes back home, he forces himself on his squires Simaron, imposing him to perform for his master… as a top. Sim is always complaining that what they are doing is not proper, that his sir should not lower himself, but it’s hard to make Richard understand, after all he has always had Sim by his side and you can say that Sim was and still is the only man Richard has really ever loved.
Meet Lady Delia Isolde Jennifer Heartwood, Daughter of Countess Isolde of the Emerald Shores, soon-to-be bride of Richard. As Richard himself she has not intention to oblige what nobility is expecting from her, she is after all a knight, and a better warrior than Richard will ever be. When indeed they married, Richard takes the first chance he has to go on a quest, a search that will lead him to discover some unexpected roots in his family tree.
The story starts almost as an erotica tale, with Richard first acting in a porn movie and than having a private performance with Sim. Even if the matter was pretty much earthly, the language was flowery and rich, and it was like reading a medieval bard describing a porn movie set. The author is plenty joking on all the common myths about both medieval savage romance than fairy tale, but he decided to turn upside down all of them, or maybe not: Lord Richard is a bored aristocrat who would prefer to sing and write poems all day long, but he has indeed to provide for his people; of course “working” is not in question, and so acting in the porn industry is the best option so far. He is probably in love with his squire Sim, but even if no one will forbid him to have a sexual intercourse with him, to be in love is highly forbidden; servants can be at the same level of cherished pet, but sooner or later he will have to marry with a woman and have an heir or two (one t spare).
It is strange because basically the author deals with all the story in a very light and funny way, and then suddenly decided it was time to make Richard pays for all his carelessness: not that he dispossessed Richard and Sim of their happily ever after, but in a way he made Richard pay his toll.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B003NX6U1E/?...
June 24, 2010
The book is intricately plotted, with enough machinations to twist the story in a new direction with each chapter. It’s sometimes difficult to keep it all straight and requires going back and re-reading to put the details in the right order, but the engaging narrative voice helps a lot.
The 1st person POV is a good choice, since Richard has a definite self-deprecating humor. It's funny, more than a little glib, and highly literate. However the author also uses parentheticals extensively, sometimes too much. After the second or third chapter, I was finding the constant asides a little tedious. What was a charming device at first ended up less so, the overall effect diminished by the overproliferation. It was a relief when they became fewer and fewer as the book progressed.
What the 1st person does, however, is end up endearing the narrator to me. Privy to all of his thought processes, I can appreciate his growth throughout the story, and end up really liking him as a result. He doesn’t really want me to at first. He’s not really proud of who or what he is, and he doesn’t seem to like the Fae in general most of the time. In fact, the only person he seems to truly respect is Simaron. But that doesn’t stop me from slowly warming to him, feeling for his confusion and frustration with events that are out of his control, respecting the choices he ends up making to try and rectify everything. He and the nonstop action are the two best reasons to read this, because both supply a steady source of surprises.
Because I like Richard so much, I really wish I believed the romance more. The problem is, Richard and Simaron have known each other their entire lives. They’ve been sexually involved for a long time. A lot of what their relationship is based on is already established at the start of the book. That’s not always a problem, but in this case, when there is so much happening that doesn’t seem to have much at all to do with their romance, that lack of involvement proved detrimental for me. I never felt like I ever really got to know Simaron. His position and attitude are very distanced, and though I recognize that he’s a good guy, I don’t feel it. And it’s that lack of emotional connection that messed with the romance for me.
That being said, it didn’t keep me from enjoying the book. Between Richard’s accomplished characterization and the intriguing twists of the plot, this was an absorbing, entertaining read.
The 1st person POV is a good choice, since Richard has a definite self-deprecating humor. It's funny, more than a little glib, and highly literate. However the author also uses parentheticals extensively, sometimes too much. After the second or third chapter, I was finding the constant asides a little tedious. What was a charming device at first ended up less so, the overall effect diminished by the overproliferation. It was a relief when they became fewer and fewer as the book progressed.
What the 1st person does, however, is end up endearing the narrator to me. Privy to all of his thought processes, I can appreciate his growth throughout the story, and end up really liking him as a result. He doesn’t really want me to at first. He’s not really proud of who or what he is, and he doesn’t seem to like the Fae in general most of the time. In fact, the only person he seems to truly respect is Simaron. But that doesn’t stop me from slowly warming to him, feeling for his confusion and frustration with events that are out of his control, respecting the choices he ends up making to try and rectify everything. He and the nonstop action are the two best reasons to read this, because both supply a steady source of surprises.
Because I like Richard so much, I really wish I believed the romance more. The problem is, Richard and Simaron have known each other their entire lives. They’ve been sexually involved for a long time. A lot of what their relationship is based on is already established at the start of the book. That’s not always a problem, but in this case, when there is so much happening that doesn’t seem to have much at all to do with their romance, that lack of involvement proved detrimental for me. I never felt like I ever really got to know Simaron. His position and attitude are very distanced, and though I recognize that he’s a good guy, I don’t feel it. And it’s that lack of emotional connection that messed with the romance for me.
That being said, it didn’t keep me from enjoying the book. Between Richard’s accomplished characterization and the intriguing twists of the plot, this was an absorbing, entertaining read.
July 7, 2016
Ok so I gotta say, I wanted to bang my head into the wall with the first chapter or two of this book. It was everything I hated in a storyline, porn plot, first person narrative breaking the fourth wall, ugh! Especially when Richard would break the fourth wall and his utterances didn't make much sense out of context of the world. Hated the beginning. Was dreading getting through this book.
And then it happened...Richard heads to his wedding. After that all porn mentions are just that mentions of things he's done not his current standings, and I finally got used to Richard's voice and the world he lived in so it didn't bother me so much anymore. From that point on the story picked up and had some really fun twists and turns as Richard strives to recover his family honor and make a life for himself.
This is truly a case where the main character really does grow up over the course of the story. I really liked his and Sim's relationship as they owned up to the real feelings between them. And the side characters were entertaining and served the story well.
So I'd rate this one 4.5 stars overall as those first two chapters lose a bit for me. But really ultimately the downside to this book is that it's the only book. This one deserves a sequel. I would love to see more of Richard and Sim and this brave new world they've created for themselves.
And then it happened...Richard heads to his wedding. After that all porn mentions are just that mentions of things he's done not his current standings, and I finally got used to Richard's voice and the world he lived in so it didn't bother me so much anymore. From that point on the story picked up and had some really fun twists and turns as Richard strives to recover his family honor and make a life for himself.
This is truly a case where the main character really does grow up over the course of the story. I really liked his and Sim's relationship as they owned up to the real feelings between them. And the side characters were entertaining and served the story well.
So I'd rate this one 4.5 stars overall as those first two chapters lose a bit for me. But really ultimately the downside to this book is that it's the only book. This one deserves a sequel. I would love to see more of Richard and Sim and this brave new world they've created for themselves.
January 10, 2020
4.25 Stars
Holy cow, what an adventure!
Wouldn't mind a follow-up given that revelation at the end...you just know that's gonna be a hoot!
Holy cow, what an adventure!
Wouldn't mind a follow-up given that revelation at the end...you just know that's gonna be a hoot!
May 8, 2012
This is only my second Demont book. I read Coyote's Creed: Broken Mirrors #1 first and loved it so much, I had to read more of Mr. Demont's work. I loved this book, too, though slightly less than Coyote. This book was more of a romance, though it was done in possibly the only way I could truly enjoy it. Nothing cloying or ridiculously feminine. And while Dick was emotionally immature, he wasn't an adolescent girl. Not that I'd expect a man to write unrealistically female male characters, but I am comparing this work to others of the genre, and the genre is rife with adolescent girls in men's bodies. Hairless men's bodies, anyway.
Proofing and editing were professional caliber--I caught two possible errors and no straight-up typos. There were a couple of times I felt like things were said that weren't supposed to be talked about (oaths), but the rules of that stuff are so convoluted, I didn't really feel confident in my understanding. Besides, I was so caught up in the story, I didn't want to use any extra time to go back and double-check details. I rarely reread books (read: almost never) but I feel that a rereading will benefit both this book and Coyote, as there's a lot to catch.
Things I didn't like as well (but not disliked): The constant Pearl Jam. It was a huge part of Dick's life, and I tend to dislike pop music references in stories, because they place people into categories rather automatically in the author's mind--and anyone's who knows and has an opinion about the music--but for those of us who don't know the music or, even worse, outright dislike the music.... Well, at best, the character seems a little shallow and silly for liking music we don't know; or at worst, ends up typed into a group the reader doesn't like and so ends up less sympathetic or even unlikeable. Pop music is not anywhere close to universal, and that is getting more and more true. In this case, I happen to like some Pearl Jam so it was okay for me, and just contributed to my impression of Dick as being a bit immature and shallow, which only enhanced the story.
Also, I could have used a little better description of Sim, because I kept seeing him as an older, kinda paunchy British butler, but I doubt that's what Mr. Demont had in mind. It was okay for me, because I think fat old men should get to have sex, too; but...yeah.
I've read some criticism of the book that complained that the relationship that develops is a little unrealistic because of the difference in station between the characters. But I felt that it was handled expertly, because Dick's immaturity and sometimes idiocy has brought him off the pedestal already. No one sees Dick as perfect or even respectable, and, without spoiling anything, I think that later conversations bear me out in this.
I was never completely clear on a couple of the conversations, but most of the time, Mr. Demont makes sure to explain things in enough detail that I managed to get it by the end of all the explaining. I think this will also improve with a second reading.
As usual, my review is rambling and nearly free of information (due to my not wanting to spoil anything). So I summarize: This is not much like your typical m/m romance. If you are into that stuff, or Yaoi, this probably won't work for you. The men are men, the romance is subtle, and there's very little sex and a whoooooole lot of plot. The plot is stunning, the characters are great fun, and while it's not quite the wild ride of Coyote, it was still great! I'd give this 4.5 stars if I could, and I may revise up after a second reading. I can't wait to get into the next book by Mr. Demont. Mr. Demont has single-handedly restored my faith in the m/m genre. Thank you!!
Proofing and editing were professional caliber--I caught two possible errors and no straight-up typos. There were a couple of times I felt like things were said that weren't supposed to be talked about (oaths), but the rules of that stuff are so convoluted, I didn't really feel confident in my understanding. Besides, I was so caught up in the story, I didn't want to use any extra time to go back and double-check details. I rarely reread books (read: almost never) but I feel that a rereading will benefit both this book and Coyote, as there's a lot to catch.
Things I didn't like as well (but not disliked): The constant Pearl Jam. It was a huge part of Dick's life, and I tend to dislike pop music references in stories, because they place people into categories rather automatically in the author's mind--and anyone's who knows and has an opinion about the music--but for those of us who don't know the music or, even worse, outright dislike the music.... Well, at best, the character seems a little shallow and silly for liking music we don't know; or at worst, ends up typed into a group the reader doesn't like and so ends up less sympathetic or even unlikeable. Pop music is not anywhere close to universal, and that is getting more and more true. In this case, I happen to like some Pearl Jam so it was okay for me, and just contributed to my impression of Dick as being a bit immature and shallow, which only enhanced the story.
Also, I could have used a little better description of Sim, because I kept seeing him as an older, kinda paunchy British butler, but I doubt that's what Mr. Demont had in mind. It was okay for me, because I think fat old men should get to have sex, too; but...yeah.
I've read some criticism of the book that complained that the relationship that develops is a little unrealistic because of the difference in station between the characters. But I felt that it was handled expertly, because Dick's immaturity and sometimes idiocy has brought him off the pedestal already. No one sees Dick as perfect or even respectable, and, without spoiling anything, I think that later conversations bear me out in this.
I was never completely clear on a couple of the conversations, but most of the time, Mr. Demont makes sure to explain things in enough detail that I managed to get it by the end of all the explaining. I think this will also improve with a second reading.
As usual, my review is rambling and nearly free of information (due to my not wanting to spoil anything). So I summarize: This is not much like your typical m/m romance. If you are into that stuff, or Yaoi, this probably won't work for you. The men are men, the romance is subtle, and there's very little sex and a whoooooole lot of plot. The plot is stunning, the characters are great fun, and while it's not quite the wild ride of Coyote, it was still great! I'd give this 4.5 stars if I could, and I may revise up after a second reading. I can't wait to get into the next book by Mr. Demont. Mr. Demont has single-handedly restored my faith in the m/m genre. Thank you!!
April 21, 2013
This is one of the few novels I have read in the last couple of years to have kept me up at night, a hard feat as, growing older, I tend to treasure my sleep more and more.
The blurb in the "product description" is accurate, for once, but I shall repeat some of it just in case it gets altered in the future:
This striking debut novel is set in a fictitious contemporary American city where humans happily ignore their peaceful coexistence with all sort of traditional supernatural creatures called the Fae. Among them are the Sidhe (elves, I should say) who are -literally- made of the stuff dreams are made of.
Their society, parallel to ours, is classist to a fault, convolutely involved in a complex network of uses and habits called the "protocol" which tend to create a schizoid dicotomy between spotless, genteel, subdued appearances and a much cruder reality of suffering, rage and violence.
Richard is a minor noble, a good person all in all, very likable and leads a rather uneventful life as a gay porn actor (the first chapter is set at his workplace and is extremely graphic, so prudes beware) until a chain of events forces his hand to make him become not only likable but also mature and unafraid of his responsibilities as a -minor- leader and as a reliable companion for his longtime (male) lover.
All the above should not make you think of a dark fantasy: this is not such, on the contrary: a delightful lightness of touch and constant humour will keep the reader constantly entertained through this delightful romp. Darker issues are just hinted, only there for those willing to think about them. My guess is that readers just looking for fun will get it and be happy.
The writing is surprisingly good, grammar in order, rhythm and plotting nearly flawless. There are nearly no inconsistencies (except perhaps about the details of the grand duel) and characterization is well done even if the first person POV necessarily implies that the main character, Richard, is much better known to the reader than all the others. Only the side character of Rem is well defined throgh the dialogue and one can wonder if the same could not have been done for the others as well.
The first person POV has been the object of some criticism from other reviewers and I may agree to a point.
Richard CONSTANTLY breaks through the fourth wall, dialoguing with the reader and giving all the necessary explanations and world building. It is extremely well done, no mean feat for the author, but it could get on some readers' nerves. Rightly so, sometimes, as I am convinced that the reader should not get world building through "descriptions" and because sometimes the constant humour, though really funny, gets in the way of the dialogues.
(As a side note, paging is not well done and it takes some effort to understand who is speaking a line).
I might point out that the second half of the book is less polished than the first and it looks a bit hurried. More fleshing out could have been needed to improve quality and reader's satisfaction. It is nothing serious, this book is a fun and quality read throughout but, as it always happens with me, I demand more from the authors who I suppose to be good enough to deliver it.
As it is the book is perfectly self contained with a satisfying happy ending. I do not know whether the author plans on a sequel or not. If he does I hope he will live up to my -at this point rather high- expectations.
After the very graphic first chapter (the one you get as a sample on kindle) the book remains very explicit, emotionally speaking, but rather chaste while the author seems more interested in developping a good plot. For this reason I suppose that it could be appreciated by any general reader provided he/she is not disturbed by homosexuality. A very mature teen could read it safely as well.
The blurb in the "product description" is accurate, for once, but I shall repeat some of it just in case it gets altered in the future:
This striking debut novel is set in a fictitious contemporary American city where humans happily ignore their peaceful coexistence with all sort of traditional supernatural creatures called the Fae. Among them are the Sidhe (elves, I should say) who are -literally- made of the stuff dreams are made of.
Their society, parallel to ours, is classist to a fault, convolutely involved in a complex network of uses and habits called the "protocol" which tend to create a schizoid dicotomy between spotless, genteel, subdued appearances and a much cruder reality of suffering, rage and violence.
Richard is a minor noble, a good person all in all, very likable and leads a rather uneventful life as a gay porn actor (the first chapter is set at his workplace and is extremely graphic, so prudes beware) until a chain of events forces his hand to make him become not only likable but also mature and unafraid of his responsibilities as a -minor- leader and as a reliable companion for his longtime (male) lover.
All the above should not make you think of a dark fantasy: this is not such, on the contrary: a delightful lightness of touch and constant humour will keep the reader constantly entertained through this delightful romp. Darker issues are just hinted, only there for those willing to think about them. My guess is that readers just looking for fun will get it and be happy.
The writing is surprisingly good, grammar in order, rhythm and plotting nearly flawless. There are nearly no inconsistencies (except perhaps about the details of the grand duel) and characterization is well done even if the first person POV necessarily implies that the main character, Richard, is much better known to the reader than all the others. Only the side character of Rem is well defined throgh the dialogue and one can wonder if the same could not have been done for the others as well.
The first person POV has been the object of some criticism from other reviewers and I may agree to a point.
Richard CONSTANTLY breaks through the fourth wall, dialoguing with the reader and giving all the necessary explanations and world building. It is extremely well done, no mean feat for the author, but it could get on some readers' nerves. Rightly so, sometimes, as I am convinced that the reader should not get world building through "descriptions" and because sometimes the constant humour, though really funny, gets in the way of the dialogues.
(As a side note, paging is not well done and it takes some effort to understand who is speaking a line).
I might point out that the second half of the book is less polished than the first and it looks a bit hurried. More fleshing out could have been needed to improve quality and reader's satisfaction. It is nothing serious, this book is a fun and quality read throughout but, as it always happens with me, I demand more from the authors who I suppose to be good enough to deliver it.
As it is the book is perfectly self contained with a satisfying happy ending. I do not know whether the author plans on a sequel or not. If he does I hope he will live up to my -at this point rather high- expectations.
After the very graphic first chapter (the one you get as a sample on kindle) the book remains very explicit, emotionally speaking, but rather chaste while the author seems more interested in developping a good plot. For this reason I suppose that it could be appreciated by any general reader provided he/she is not disturbed by homosexuality. A very mature teen could read it safely as well.
November 27, 2013
This was a really good urban fantasy. The narrator Richard is snarky, opinionated and fun. He starts off a little whiny, but has to grow up fast as his family's heirloom (a magic sword with Azure fire) ceases to work. To fix it he needs to do something, although no-one seems quite sure what, but it probably involves a quest and maybe a demon.
My only complaint is that it leant itself in style and tone to more explicit sex scenes, but they didn't materialize, most of the sex was off-page or implied, which was a shame because Richard is seriously hot!
Still, it was a really good, fun read and I'd like to read some more about this world.
My only complaint is that it leant itself in style and tone to more explicit sex scenes, but they didn't materialize, most of the sex was off-page or implied, which was a shame because Richard is seriously hot!
Still, it was a really good, fun read and I'd like to read some more about this world.
December 6, 2015
I loved this book. It's exciting, funny, moving, and just really great. I absolutely love this author's brand of smart, fast-paced, really entertaining fantasy. This book is great fun and it's so full of energy and heart. The writing is lively and smooth and so snappy. I love this world he's created and I enjoyed the crossovers with the phenomenally good Broken Mirrors series. It's great to see another side of that awesome world and to learn more about it. There's a lot going on in this book, so pay attention and keep up. It's a wild ride, and I loved every minute.
January 7, 2014
I'm apparently not a fan of 1st person writing. There were times when I didn't know wtf was going on but simply plowed through and hoped it didn't matter.
If you're looking for romance, this isn't it. It reminded me of an episode from Supernatural....but not.
If you're looking for romance, this isn't it. It reminded me of an episode from Supernatural....but not.
May 21, 2013
I've had House of Stone in my to-be-read pile for a while until I came around to reading it. And why did I procrastinate? Because of the cover. Seriously, I looked at the cover and thought, "hmm, is this a book you want to read next? No, better not." Looking back at that, I should better have read the blurb again instead of being misled by that picture on the front because, seriously, you could have put an abandoned warehouse or a potted narcissus or a giant phallus there and it would have fit the story just as little and told you exactly the same - namely nothing.
The thing is, this book is funny. And absolutely unique in the world described, with lots of fantastical elements mixed with contemporary equipment. The speech itself is a tribute to that, a lot of it old-fashioned (especially when the servants are talking to their lords and ladies), and at other times full of slang (okay, that is mostly Richard). And would you have guessed any of that by looking at the cover? Because I sure didn't. But what a pleasant surprise all of it was.
Richard is a sidhe and the lord of the House of Stone since his parents died several years ago and he's living his life as he sees fit together with his servant and occasional sex partner Sim. Richard isn't one for old values and traditions and, since his county is a rather run-down part of the city, he chooses to support the arts (a generally noble cause for any fae lord or lady) by starring in porn films. Sim, on the other hand, is keen on serving in accord with the strict protocol of the fae court - which shuns him because of his half-blood status - but Richard does his best to make this task very hard for him.
Then, Richard is summoned to marry an (to him) unknown lady, the sword his family bears with pride seems to lose its magic and thus threatens the already meagre standing and reputation of the Stone family and, suddenly, someone seems to want him either dead or playing the puppet on strings. And that's only the very beginning of what Richard has to find out, has to recognize, and has to become to get out of the whole mess alive. Thank the Gods, Sim's there lending a helping hand and giving a pleasant distraction while Richard can only remember the peaceful times of working in adult films.
This is not a perfect book, and a few times I thought the story could move a bit quicker. I didn't get all the details of the world and not everything made perfect sense. However, the story was still awesome, with many twists and turns, with character development, interesting ideas, and lots of imagination. Richard was brilliant - and I'm just sorry that I didn't get to know Sim better. Sim is so detached over many pages of this book, caught up in his role as a servant and nothing more, that the depth of his character is more hinted at than actually spelled out.
I still had a lot of fun reading this book, though, so I'd definitely recommend reading it! :-D
The thing is, this book is funny. And absolutely unique in the world described, with lots of fantastical elements mixed with contemporary equipment. The speech itself is a tribute to that, a lot of it old-fashioned (especially when the servants are talking to their lords and ladies), and at other times full of slang (okay, that is mostly Richard). And would you have guessed any of that by looking at the cover? Because I sure didn't. But what a pleasant surprise all of it was.
Richard is a sidhe and the lord of the House of Stone since his parents died several years ago and he's living his life as he sees fit together with his servant and occasional sex partner Sim. Richard isn't one for old values and traditions and, since his county is a rather run-down part of the city, he chooses to support the arts (a generally noble cause for any fae lord or lady) by starring in porn films. Sim, on the other hand, is keen on serving in accord with the strict protocol of the fae court - which shuns him because of his half-blood status - but Richard does his best to make this task very hard for him.
Then, Richard is summoned to marry an (to him) unknown lady, the sword his family bears with pride seems to lose its magic and thus threatens the already meagre standing and reputation of the Stone family and, suddenly, someone seems to want him either dead or playing the puppet on strings. And that's only the very beginning of what Richard has to find out, has to recognize, and has to become to get out of the whole mess alive. Thank the Gods, Sim's there lending a helping hand and giving a pleasant distraction while Richard can only remember the peaceful times of working in adult films.
This is not a perfect book, and a few times I thought the story could move a bit quicker. I didn't get all the details of the world and not everything made perfect sense. However, the story was still awesome, with many twists and turns, with character development, interesting ideas, and lots of imagination. Richard was brilliant - and I'm just sorry that I didn't get to know Sim better. Sim is so detached over many pages of this book, caught up in his role as a servant and nothing more, that the depth of his character is more hinted at than actually spelled out.
I still had a lot of fun reading this book, though, so I'd definitely recommend reading it! :-D
June 15, 2014
I have been entertained. Honestly, there are times that's the highest praise a book can garner and now is one of those times. From the first page to the last, Richard amused me with his irreverent narrative, ignoble commentary, and ironic observations. This is without mentioning his capacitous ability for internal and emotional growth. I enjoyed him when he was a shiftless cad in the beginning and when he was a noble hero at the end.
However, I also found this same personal growth problematic, in that it largely invalidated he and Sim's pre-established love. Richard changes so much from the beginning to the end as to be almost a new man. Sim is shown to be a lot more (and different) that Richard ever knew. I ask then, how they were to have known one another enough to love beyond their lust? They were not yet (or yet known to be) the men they would love the other for being. It felt a little hollow to me.
I also thought that Richard (and to a lesser degree, Rem) were the only wholly fleshed out characters. The rest were likeable enough (or unlikeable when appropriate), but I never felt I knew them particularly well.
Regardless of my few irritants here and there, I was happy throughout. Demont shows a real talent for timing and dramatic disclosures. I especially appreciated that he could drop a verbal bombshell or subtle joke and leave the reader to furrow out the meaning. Something is lost in a joke if the punchline has to be explained to you. I also was pulled in by the idea of elves being the stuff of dreams. I'll definitely be seeking out more of Demont's writing.
However, I also found this same personal growth problematic, in that it largely invalidated he and Sim's pre-established love. Richard changes so much from the beginning to the end as to be almost a new man. Sim is shown to be a lot more (and different) that Richard ever knew. I ask then, how they were to have known one another enough to love beyond their lust? They were not yet (or yet known to be) the men they would love the other for being. It felt a little hollow to me.
I also thought that Richard (and to a lesser degree, Rem) were the only wholly fleshed out characters. The rest were likeable enough (or unlikeable when appropriate), but I never felt I knew them particularly well.
Regardless of my few irritants here and there, I was happy throughout. Demont shows a real talent for timing and dramatic disclosures. I especially appreciated that he could drop a verbal bombshell or subtle joke and leave the reader to furrow out the meaning. Something is lost in a joke if the punchline has to be explained to you. I also was pulled in by the idea of elves being the stuff of dreams. I'll definitely be seeking out more of Demont's writing.
June 28, 2012
Not quite sure about this one. It started out strong - very funny and hot (fae as gay porn star...), but somehow lost the drive over the next 200 pages. I am not even sure why I lost all interest in the story, but it happened. It was not a overall bad read, it just didn't hit me in the right way and was one of the few books I felt just glad to have finished.
January 14, 2014
I almost loved this one - would have been 4 stars half-way in, despite a lot of infodumps - but it dragged on and I didn't find the resolution satisfying.
We're told that the MC has changed, but I didn't really see the change, as it happened. Apparently he used to be selfish and shallow, but then somehow, at some point over the few days of the book, that changed... except maybe it didn't, really, because .
So once that quest is ignored, what exactly did our MC do during the book? He got rescued a lot, often by women, so... it's nice to have the gender equity there, but hard to care about a hero who never really pulls things together. I guess he's self-sacrificing, but then his one real sacrifice is nullified with mystic magic, so...?
Damn, I should stop writing before I have to knock another star off.
Like I said, for the first part of the book I was engaged and considering it a four-star read. So... that's something...
We're told that the MC has changed, but I didn't really see the change, as it happened. Apparently he used to be selfish and shallow, but then somehow, at some point over the few days of the book, that changed... except maybe it didn't, really, because .
So once that quest is ignored, what exactly did our MC do during the book? He got rescued a lot, often by women, so... it's nice to have the gender equity there, but hard to care about a hero who never really pulls things together. I guess he's self-sacrificing, but then his one real sacrifice is nullified with mystic magic, so...?
Damn, I should stop writing before I have to knock another star off.
Like I said, for the first part of the book I was engaged and considering it a four-star read. So... that's something...
August 2, 2014
Honestly, and we must always keep in mind every review is a persons own opinion (unless somebody else's opinion has already taken up residence in your mind), I absolutely loved this book. The writing is wonderful, the descriptions are poetic and so much fun whilst invoking the perfect images into a persons mind. I think there was one page in particular where I ended up putting the book down for about 2 minutes so I wouldn't crinkle the pages while I convulsed with laughter. I honestly think that Mr. Demont is the best author at bringing to mind amazing scenes and giving them such splendor and vividness that it often leaves me sitting with a thoughtful, if somewhat vacant look if we are to believe my mother, on my face as I reflect on it. So if you want to take my advice, I suggest purchasing this novel.
March 5, 2013
I seem to have read this book out of order, since it was apparently published before Coyote's Creed and Lightning Rod. Interestingly, the plot of this book appears to take place some time after the events of Lightning Rod, suggesting that the story arc was plotted out in advance. In sappiness, it was more than CC, but less than LR, and it certainly developed the backstabbing intrigues of the Fae with excellent flair. It was an enjoyable read, and a nice counterpoint to the Broken Mirror series.
September 6, 2016
4.5 stars. Vaughn Demont's main character Count Stone is irreverent and self-deprecating, fiercely loyal and flawed as only a human can be (well he's part fae too). This and his quirky sense of humor just makes him so likeable! He reminds me of other great fantasy/paranormal protagonists- Jim Butcher's Harry Dresden and Kevin Hearne's Atticus O'sullivan come to mind. This is not primarily a romance but more like a contemporary fantasy with a gay male main character and romantic elements. In any case, I really liked this book and I'm excited to start Mr. Demont's Broken Mirrors series.
June 30, 2014
This was chosen for me as a "Pick it for me" book. I'd never have read it otherwise, and I'm so glad I did. It's funny and a bit crazy, Richard is a sort of modern day knight (he's a porn star) yet it also felt like a throwback (there are demons, fae, duels, etc). It's a crazy mish mash but it works for entertainment.
June 30, 2016
I'm in a minority here, but I didn't enjoy this.
I found it confusing and difficult to follow and couldn't get an understanding of Sim's personality at all. For all the professions of love, his relationship with Richard felt cold.
I found it confusing and difficult to follow and couldn't get an understanding of Sim's personality at all. For all the professions of love, his relationship with Richard felt cold.
November 12, 2011
3.5 stars
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