Stone Seduction

A solid sequel in the trilogy. Incredibly fast-paced. I think it would have been slightly more enjoyable if I'd reread Stone Temptation first, as it took a little bit to get back into the world and even then I still couldn't quite remember everything, but I got there in the end! I'm definitely wishing that I'd waited to read this book until the final book arrived, however, because it has left us on quite the impressive cliffhanger!!

Knowing what I know now about this book, would I still read it if I went back in time?
Yes!

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

CHARACTERS: I have moments with both Luke and Asher where I alternate between adoring them and rolling my eyes at them. I like to think that's a sign of some complex characters, even though sometimes the dialogue is slightly stilted (a Richard Amos staple that I've learned to skim past!). With this book, our fearless heroes are fighting their feelings (mostly worried it's too deep too fast), while Asher worries about sharing the secret he knows with Luke because of how Luke may react, while also knowing that he can't truly be with Luke when there are secrets between them. Sometimes Luke would do things that made me want to yell at him, and part of that was because he has some traits of a person that's been physically and emotionally abused (so possible trigger warning there). It's never explicitly stated and I don't think Luke himself realizes it, but as a reader I can see the signs. That being said, when the secret does finally come out, I was so impressed with Luke as a character that I fell in love with him all over again. In the end, they end up closer and further away than ever, but I'm keen to see how they will truly solidify their relationship in the final book!

PLOT: We pick up right where book one leaves off and its off to the races. We truly barely stop to breathe. I think my watch last night was telling me to calm down because my stress levels were high while I was lying in bed reading. More secrets come to light as this plot with Ember develops, and we finish this book with a rather explosive reveal that I personally didn't see coming! This was a wild ride all the way through to the end and I can only imagine what the final book will be like. If I know anything about Richard Amos, it'll leave me utterly breathless.

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

3/5: medium. A wild ride that didn't leave me worried that the stakes would be too high, nor were they themes that had my heart racing. Thoroughly entertaining!

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

70%. Makes sense for a middle book in a series. I didn't feel we had a true climactic moment and then denouement because of how the reveal occurred. But I still really enjoyed the book and am grateful that in a few cases we didn't fall into any trope traps!

Kimberly

759 reviews27 followers

December 30, 2024

Stone Seduction by Richard Amos is book two in the Gargoyle Marked Series. I will start this off by saying you must read the first book before this one as it isn’t a standalone. That being said I was looking forward to this second book as I was a fan of the first and I truly enjoyed the characters of Luke and Asher. I really found myself falling for Luke in this book; he just has a hold on me. This picks up right where the first one ended and it just continues to pick up speed with this plot. What I enjoyed was how secrets were revealed but I still didn’t see some of the things that were revealed. I like that this author keeps me on my toes. It’s definitely a rollercoaster of a read, there’s highs and lows. The writing was so well done to the point I really didn’t want to put my kindle down. I will mention there is one heck of a cliffhanger; needless to say I’m anxiously awaiting the third book. One thing I can say for sure is that this author is one of my go tos for paranormal m/m relationship reads. There’s always something intriguing about the stories that are told and this series so far is up there with the rest. I would recommend this to anyone who like me tends to get way invested in their books.

Final review:
4 out of 5 stars

Daniele Stephenson

162 reviews1 follower

January 3, 2025

With this second book we just keep diving further into this story with Luke and Asher. Like it seems like we finally get a moment to breathe and another problem shows up. Neither of these two can catch a break and I just feel for them. It has taken some time but Luke finally knows what happened to his brother. He is struggling with the info and with what feels like another side of himself wanting destruction. Poor Asher is having to try and keep him safe and dodge not only Seth but his ex Billy is there as well. I was happy that they finally dealt with Seth but then we get another hit with more info and things to deal with. I love how this story and series has kept me intrigued and wanting more. I love trying to guess what is going to happen and love that the story still throws curve balls to keep me in suspense. Even if we get info that solves one of the secrets it usually unfolds into something larger or a new secret. I’m excited to see what we will get in the next installment and see how Asher and Luke are able to handle the situation. Right now the HEA looks like it’s going to be a bit of a struggle to get to for them but I’m excited to see them get there.

Yunga2013

73 reviews2 followers

action adventure bodyguards

This is the second instalment in the series, and you need to read the first one first. The world in this series is absolutely amazing. Gargoyles as protectors of humans, monsters trying to suck their soles... a lot is going on in this world. And in the middle of all that mischief - our MCs - Luke and Asher, who didn't ask for all the drama but got it anyway. This book is packed with action to the brim. You simply can't take a calming breath. Something new is coming. And all our MCs want is to hang out together. There's an interesting issue that has risen here: not everyone wants to be a hero, you just want to live a normal life... but your fate is sealed. I felt sorry for Luke, who struggled with the idea of his 'mission'. The plot takes several very unexpected turns and ends with a huge cliffhanger, which left me so intrigued and excited for the grand finale. Highly recommend the book. It's an exciting and enjoyable read.

Denise

444 reviews1 follower

December 31, 2024

OMG book 2 of the Gargoyle Marked series is so good. It pulled me into the story from page one and released me on the last page wanting more. The ending surprised me with a twist and a shock that beats all surprises. The two MMC's are superb and a delight to read about They give the story lots of deep character.
Luke and Asher are the two main characters of the story and I love there attitudes about how they feel for each other. There emotions are deep and very steamy at times plus a lot of cuddle time that I found to very sweet. We meet a few new characters that I really liked. One is a very strong female character with a caring heart for her brother. The other one is female and she caries lots of power with in her.
So, if you love Strong Male characters, Strong Female characters and Awesome Fight Scenes. Then you need to read Stone Seduction and I would recommend starting with the first book

T.A

568 reviews

January 4, 2025

Luke And Asher are put through the wringer.

Luke has become more dangerous as his powers and what's inside him keep fighting, and when he becomes angry he loses control. Asher seems to be the only one that can calm him. As Luke gains control of the two selves inside him from fighting, more trouble comes his way. He's told the truth about himself, that he not only stole his brother's (Finn) powers but his destiny. He loses control. He's kidnapped by Seth, Luna and Billy, and turned over to the burnt woman (Ember) who is set to destroy the world as they know it. As Luke is getting ready to kill Ember Luna gets her throat cut by masked humans (didn't like her anyway lol), Luke falls frozen, Ember is set loose killing Seth, not sure what happens to Billy. And then Ember swaps Luke and Finn's destinies. Luke finds himself in the cold prison his brother was in.

Once again the ending has a twist and I can't wait for the next book!

arc richard-amos

Ashley

322 reviews3 followers

December 17, 2024

So I have to say....this book kind of snuck up on me. It started off a bit slow but boy did it pick up! I felt like I was getting one revelation after another about Luke and Finn and Asher and I almost couldn't keep up. We're on a rollercoaster for this one you guys. And the ending - You. Are. Not. Ready! This book put us through the emotional ringer there at the end.
Although I've literally never been in magical crisis, I feel for Luke and what he's going through. How awful it must be to have so many chains (literally and metaphorically) wrapped around you. Not feeling like yourself and even more so being fearful of yourself and your potential. I also empathize with Asher on feelings of guilt, betrayal, and heartbreak, especially when the world won't stop and let you breathe.
I'm pretty excited to see where the gang ends up in book 3!

Azdude

21 reviews1 follower

December 21, 2024

First of all - this is the book 2 - and penultimate installment in a trilogy. This isn't a stand alone book - ya gotta read em in sequence. Having said that - this is a fantastic "middle" book. One of those age-old gargoyle-human love stories for the ages. ;). Asher and Luke are two brilliant characters. Falling hopelessly in love in a dystopian environment where existential threats abound. Whether antagonist or protagonist - Richard Amos developes all of his characters like a skilled craftsman. Stone Seduction is a great adventure from page to to the cliff hanger ending. In a society ruled gy a gargoyle court and knighthood, gargoyle knight Asher and his human Luke have to battle internal betrayal, elemental enemies and a series of events that will test their bond. I loved every page of this book! You will, as well.

AshPenny37

919 reviews2 followers

Holy moly what a wild ride. We're back in the Gargoyle Marked universe for the middle book in the trilogy. He’s still figuring out how to save his brother and there's still the threat of monster attacks, but for Luke there's at least still his gorgeous gargoyle, his best friends and strawberry creams to make life better.

No spoilers here, so I'll just say that it's all action as Luke and Asher are both tested to the max when jeopardy situations push all their buttons - for Luke it's the capability to save Finn, for Asher it's his ability to protect Luke. I have a huge soft spot for these MCs - they're such a sweet couple. Conversely, I loathe Seth - he's an absolutely hateful character, but the strength of my reaction to him just shows how well he's written. We see more of Tom and Maren, Luke's best friends, and of Asher's best friend Dane, as well as meeting more of his family.

The bottom line is that tensions are rising and the action is really ramping up…I cannot wait to see how Asher and Luke's story ends! 5*

An e-copy was provided by the author. This is my honest opinion.

Katelyn Livezey

Author 1 book11 followers

Book 2 (Must read Book 1 first)
MM
Gargoyal
PNR

Book 2 picks up right where book 1 left off. In this book we dive further into Luke and Asher’s story. The poor guys just can’t catch a break. Once they get a moment to breathe, something else happens. I’m glad Luke finally has some closure on what happened to his brother, unfortunately he’s struggling with the knowledge though. Asher has his hands full trying to keep him safe and not only dodge Seth, but his ex Billy. Seth was dealt with only for something else to happen.

This book really keeps you intrigued and on your toes. A secret is finally revealed only for another one to come into play. The characters were amazing and the storyline continues to be fantastic. The cliffhanger wasn’t what I was expecting and I’m excited for book 3!

DMCechak

1,689 reviews21 followers

Stone Seduction - Gargoyle Marked Book 2

‘There didn’t have to be any split, any war between my two halves. I was just me, only different. No dark half, light half, but a new man on a new path, keeping my brother in the center of my universe.’

In a dramatic and complex addition to his Gargoyle Marked series, Richard Amos has created a world where human Luke and his gargoyle Asher don’t get a moment’s rest because their entire relationship is in peril.

Romantic and devastatingly torturous, there are twists and turns, with secrets and deceptions battering these two as they attempt to keep their friends and family safe.

A complex effort that bypasses any sense of a quick and easy read, in Stone Seduction we are enveloped, then tossed and turned on a rough and savage sea, already knowing we will crave the next story in this amazing series

Ines

1,120 reviews35 followers

December 22, 2024

This second book in the Gargoyle Marked series absolutely didn’t disappoint. Where so many second books mean a slowing down of the plot development, this author always manages to find a way to keep up the twists and turns no matter where you are in the story. And there are definitely some interesting revelations to be found.

I think it’s fascinating how easy it is to recognize a clear writing style in this author’s work, while every story is totally original as well. I love that combination of original elements, with the recognizable characters and love story between them. I really love Luke this time, so it’s with mixed feelings I’ve been watching him struggle. I just hope the final book will provide all the relief I’m hoping for.

Jeanette Waters

1,484 reviews2 followers

Every time I think I've got the story nailed down, Richard Amos throws the plot a curve. Thank goodness Luke has Asher in his corner. Or does he? Is Luke the scapegoat or the one who needs to be annihilated?
The only thing that remained stable in the story was Asher's devotion to Luke and his guilt over the secret Seth gave him. Luke has his own host of problems. And guilt. Sweet caring moments between Luke and Asher. Surrounded by a confusing and angsty story line.
The book ends on a cliffhanger. None of my questions answered.
It was a quick read. Very, very angsty. Even for Mr. Amos. Was it enjoyable? Or just addictive?
I received an advanced copy of this book and this is my review.

Anne Barwell

Author 22 books108 followers

January 1, 2025

I’m enjoying this series with its fabulous, and different, world building and flawed characters. I particularly like how Luke’s character is unfolding with a lot of twists and turns, especially the doozy at the end of this book. I can always rely on this author for a decent cliffhanger!

I love Asher and Luke’s relationship and the effect Asher’s presence has on Luke during the dark episodes. I also like their long term friendships, and the introduction of Asher’s sister in this story.

Seth is an arse. I loved the scenes with him and Weaver Anita. And that twist at the end of the book with Luke’s brother. Very clever, and I didn’t see it coming.

I’m looking forward to seeing how all of that pans out going forward. More please.

ebook m-m

David Wickham

556 reviews8 followers

This is the second book in the trilogy. This is one of the author's better books, which is saying a lot since he's on my "they can do no wrong" list. It's also pretty amazing since this is the second book and usually the second book doesn't really do much except for setting up the final book and not really move the plot forward that much. This completely rips the plot apart and I just can't say enough about it. I don't want to give away the story because people need to read this for themselves.

Lots of blood and violence just like the author's other books. Lots of spice as well. This is a romance and Richard shines in writing spicy times. I highly recommend this. Can't wait for the final book!

dark ebook erotic

Seraphia

1,992 reviews28 followers

January 7, 2025

Stone Seduction is the second book in the Gargoyle Marked series, and this book is a page-turner. Luke and Asher are facing a litany of uphill battles just to be together. Seth insists on inserting himself because he seeks to control Luke. Ember is constantly poking looking to awaken the destructive energy that resides in Luke, but there is that pesky aspect of a secret locked away...but not for much longer.
The thing that drove me hardest concerning this book was the hints of the secret being revealed. I wanted to know what the fall-out was going to be. Well, the author has a twist in store, because the secret is deeper than we think.
Prepare for this book to devour you as you devour it.

Penny

2,749 reviews74 followers

December 16, 2024

I was happy to be back in this world, and I immediately started this second book in the series. Luke and Asher are such a cute couple, and I must tell you that I loathe Seth with the passion of a thousand suns. LOL! This latest just brought home the truths of those two statements. I can’t say much because I don’t want to give spoilers, but that end really threw me for a loop…wow. Anyway, I can’t wait to see how they are all going to get out of this latest. Recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.

caroline wilson

598 reviews4 followers

This is the second book in the series and so is a follow on from that with Luke and Asher. They had so much thrown at them that you couldn't help but feel for them and for their inner turmoil. There was so much in this book, we had questions answered and yet more were born. The world building is brilliant but I'm coming to expect that from this author. This was not a boring book and doesn't rely on it laurels. It gave emotional depth, action and intrigue with one major cliff hanger that I'm ready for the next book. Good read.

Juniper

3,231 reviews22 followers

Luke and Asher return here (gentle note to start with book one in the series, if you haven’t already) and readers get a heady blend of character development and an evolving plot (so much plot, and mind the cliffhanger at the end here, it’s a doozy). This narrative is a heck of a ride, in all the best ways, and it’s easy to invest in both people and events as things unfold (keeping descriptions vague here as they deserve to be experienced on their own terms). 4.5 stars: well worth a read.

*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

Laci Steimel

499 reviews6 followers

Asher and Luke are such an adorable fit! I love how they both accept each other's quirky sides, and they are each other's sunshines. Asher is definitely Luke's saving grace when it comes to his dark side, and the steam is *whew.* The side characters even have me invested! I love Tom, Dane, Maren and Eden, and they are all complimentary personalities that keep me wanting more. Ends on a cliffhanger and I absolutely needs to know what comes next! Tons of cuteness, action, steam and angst make this a wonderful read!

Joy Lynch

757 reviews1 follower

December 29, 2024

Richard gives us the next book in the Gargoyle Marked series and wow! Luke and Asher's story continues from the previous cliffhanger and we are treated to new twists and events and characters. Working towards the destruction of Ember, our questions are answered but more arise. To find out what happens, dive into this wonderfully written book with complex characters and plot twists that are seriously mind boggling and keep you turning pages throughout. I loved reading this story and highly recommend it. I can't wait for the final book in this series. Don't miss out on this book!!

Ida Umphers

4,863 reviews40 followers

December 26, 2024

Oh mercy, I need book three now, lol. Poor Luke and Asher. Each carrying around so much baggage both emotional and literal since this is a paranormal series. We learn so much about all the characters here, but the new knowledge opens up more questions. Richard Amos has outdone himself in this series with his ability to hook you, make you care about the characters and give you a magnificent cliffhanger until the next book.

Suzanne McNeill Taviner

1,620 reviews5 followers

Well, there was a lot going on in this installment in the series! The attacks on Luke continue and get more and more daring, will he survive them? Seth is still being controlling, not sure to what end but, I don't trust him at all!
Luke and Asher continue to fall for each other but is it enough to help Luke temper his powers?
That ending though, twisty and shocking, can't wait for the next book.

Demetra Roussakis

1,233 reviews11 followers

Dang. What a ride. This is book 2 in the series but you must read the first to understand the characters and overlaying plot. I love both Luke and Asher. Luke is trying to figure out how to save his brother Finn, and Asher, who is a gargoyle, is protecting Luke. As the story progresses we find out what is happening with Luke. I am loving the way the story is flowing. Great world building, action and suspense. Cannot wait to see what happens next.

Lynn Stifle

3,649 reviews66 followers

December 26, 2024

This is book #2 in this series and is a wild ride it was!! Luke and Asher are absolutely incredible characters and my heart hurt for all the emotional turmoil they experience throughout. With lots of twists and turns, action, and excitement I was entertained from beginning to end…and that cliffhanger ending left me screaming for more. I can’t wait to see what happens next!

Tanya

15.3k reviews99 followers

December 29, 2024

Luke and Asher are about to be pulled into a world neither of them expected. They both fall for the other hard and they now need to discover where things will go next for them both. Life is going to become interesting and different for them. What is going to happen for them? Will love bloom for them? See where that will take them

Ann Brown

2,886 reviews15 followers

January 3, 2025

A fast paced, action packed and thrilling read. There's so much going on as Luke discovers more powers and is constantly being attacked whilst Asher tries to protect him. The world building continues to be fantastic with fabulous characters. The ending was so unexpected and jaw dropping. Can't wait to read the next book.

Camilla Bratt

541 reviews5 followers