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On the Mountain
One feels he’s not worthy of love. The other fears he doesn't know how. But the sizzling chemistry between them has both tempted to explore the unknown.
Cyrus
I was intrigued by Crow at first glance. Who wouldn't be? He's a mountain of a man, who was raised in a cult, and now lives secluded in the wilderness. But the draw I feel to him goes beyond mild interest. When his intense gaze falls my way it feels like he can see into my soul, to my deepest yearnings and desires.
I took a bold chance venturing to his mountain uninvited. But I can't help myself. Despite Crow’s dangerous facade, I feel at home when I’m near him. I've never felt wanted or needed… until the mountain man took me in his arms.
Crow
The mountain is my home, the only place that truly suits me. I reveled in my solitude... until Cyrus showed up looking as lonely as I felt. The warmth in his gaze made me welcome someone into my home and my heart for the very first time.
The way he smells. The way he feels. I come apart with his every touch. The past haunts us both. Yet when we’re together the weight of them is more manageable. Cyrus is mine and I don’t ever want to let him go. Still, I fear eventually he’ll want to leave the mountain... and for the first time in my life, I don’t want to be alone.
Cyrus
I was intrigued by Crow at first glance. Who wouldn't be? He's a mountain of a man, who was raised in a cult, and now lives secluded in the wilderness. But the draw I feel to him goes beyond mild interest. When his intense gaze falls my way it feels like he can see into my soul, to my deepest yearnings and desires.
I took a bold chance venturing to his mountain uninvited. But I can't help myself. Despite Crow’s dangerous facade, I feel at home when I’m near him. I've never felt wanted or needed… until the mountain man took me in his arms.
Crow
The mountain is my home, the only place that truly suits me. I reveled in my solitude... until Cyrus showed up looking as lonely as I felt. The warmth in his gaze made me welcome someone into my home and my heart for the very first time.
The way he smells. The way he feels. I come apart with his every touch. The past haunts us both. Yet when we’re together the weight of them is more manageable. Cyrus is mine and I don’t ever want to let him go. Still, I fear eventually he’ll want to leave the mountain... and for the first time in my life, I don’t want to be alone.
276 pages, Paperback
First published January 24, 2024
490 people are currently reading
2233 people want to read
About the author
Riley Hart
114 books7,154 followersRiley Hart is the girl who wears her heart on her sleeve. She's a hopeless romantic. A lover of sexy stories, passionate men, and writing about all the trouble they can get into together. If she's not writing, you'll probably find her reading.
Riley lives in California with her awesome family, who she is thankful for everyday.
Riley lives in California with her awesome family, who she is thankful for everyday.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 667 reviews
February 7, 2024
~4.5~
I loved this unconventional story of passion and obsession. Cyrus and Crow's relationship is anything but typical.
Cyrus is trying to build a new life for himself after overdosing and going through rehab. He was raised by an addict and followed in her footsteps, but he's trying to do better, BE better. This isn't easy as Cyrus struggles with mental illness and low self-esteem.
Crow is the only son of a cult leader. His father exerted control and dominance over Crow's life, teaching Crow lessons no child should have to learn. Crow lives as a recluse on a large swathe of land on top of a mountain. He's selectively mute and deeply traumatized.
Crow and Cyrus don't meet as much as collide. Crow needs to dominate and control, and Cyrus lets him. There's no sweet love-making in this book. The sex scenes are raw, desperate, and rough. Crow makes his little lamb take it all.
If you're looking for slow burn, soulful romance, or standard relationship development, you won't find it here. The men fall quickly and deeply. It's codependence to the max, but that's what works for them.
Crow and Cyrus have to learn to trust: themselves and each other. This is not a lighthearted story. It's filled with angst, pain, and loss.
Despite this, there are unexpected glimmers of joys: Crow's smile, Cyrus learning to ride a snowmobile, the baths they share.
After all, to quote St. Francis of Assisi, All the darkness in the world cannot extinguish the light of a single candle.
I loved this unconventional story of passion and obsession. Cyrus and Crow's relationship is anything but typical.
Cyrus is trying to build a new life for himself after overdosing and going through rehab. He was raised by an addict and followed in her footsteps, but he's trying to do better, BE better. This isn't easy as Cyrus struggles with mental illness and low self-esteem.
Crow is the only son of a cult leader. His father exerted control and dominance over Crow's life, teaching Crow lessons no child should have to learn. Crow lives as a recluse on a large swathe of land on top of a mountain. He's selectively mute and deeply traumatized.
Crow and Cyrus don't meet as much as collide. Crow needs to dominate and control, and Cyrus lets him. There's no sweet love-making in this book. The sex scenes are raw, desperate, and rough. Crow makes his little lamb take it all.
If you're looking for slow burn, soulful romance, or standard relationship development, you won't find it here. The men fall quickly and deeply. It's codependence to the max, but that's what works for them.
Crow and Cyrus have to learn to trust: themselves and each other. This is not a lighthearted story. It's filled with angst, pain, and loss.
Despite this, there are unexpected glimmers of joys: Crow's smile, Cyrus learning to ride a snowmobile, the baths they share.
After all, to quote St. Francis of Assisi, All the darkness in the world cannot extinguish the light of a single candle.
August 12, 2024
*4.5* Two very broken men discover emotional recovery in the arms of each other. It felt an authentic portrayal of life after growing up in a cult, what it means to be lonely, and the internal healing it takes to come out the other side from crippling depression.
Gay love story
Cult survivalist
Hurt/comfort
Selective mutism
Hint at primal play
Trauma/mental illness
Artist
Beautiful HEA
I really loved how both Cyrus and Crow never once said anything bad about their mothers. They felt that each woman did her best to love them in her own way, and that was such a refreshing take.
Crow’s mother was married to a cult leader, and Cyrus’s mother was a drug addict. Both men lose their mothers as teens.
Zane Daniels does a wonderful job at narrating the audiobook. I’m not sure if I would have felt the same amount of emotion reading this book as I did listening to it.
Gay love story
Cult survivalist
Hurt/comfort
Selective mutism
Hint at primal play
Trauma/mental illness
Artist
Beautiful HEA
I really loved how both Cyrus and Crow never once said anything bad about their mothers. They felt that each woman did her best to love them in her own way, and that was such a refreshing take.
Crow’s mother was married to a cult leader, and Cyrus’s mother was a drug addict. Both men lose their mothers as teens.
Zane Daniels does a wonderful job at narrating the audiobook. I’m not sure if I would have felt the same amount of emotion reading this book as I did listening to it.
February 11, 2024
5 Stars
Deeply moving and breathtakingly romantic, On the Mountain pulls on the heartstrings in a way that reminded me, like a slap to the face, just how damn good a Riley Hart story can be when her character depth, relationship chemistry, and emotional tone is just right.
This may, in fact, be my new favourite of Hart’s stories to date, which is saying something, having now read upwards of 40 books of hers over the past decade. She’s one of the most prolific authors in the M/M genre today and popular for obvious reasons, but every so often she goes beyond just phoning it in with her effortless romances, instead delivering an exceptional story—one that feels more intimate, personal, and raw—ensuring that I keep coming back time and time again, so I don’t miss those standout gems.
On the Mountain is one such standout, telling the simple but profound story of two very different, very complex men, who find love in their previously lonely and isolated lives.
Crow grew up in a cult, away from civilisation, living on a family-owned property high up in the mountains. Having survived the terror and emotional abuse of his youth, that came to a cataclysmic end when his father murdered his mother and the cult was disbanded, Crow was forever scarred, struggling to assimilate into society as he grew into adulthood. Feeling forever the outcast, Crow spent the next ten years on the mountain, living on and working the land, financially sustained by his mother’s inheritance, and preferring the solitude only the wilderness could offer his damaged, misfit heart.
As a selective mute, Crow always experiences fear and sometimes aggression the few times he ventures down the mountain for supply runs, preferring to avoid human interaction at all costs. But after meeting Cyrus, the devastatingly beautiful young man newly working in the hardware store, he finds his mind conflicted with new, seemingly unattainable thoughts of claiming the man who very quickly and permanently burrows his way into Crow’s heart and home.
After Cyrus moves to a small-town in the mountains of Colorado, he’s hoping to find solace and peace, starting afresh as a recovering addict who wants to stay the course, while taming his mental health demons and hopefully building a better life for himself in the process. He’s all alone in the world and that weighs heavy on his heart, but after an intense encounter with the local mountain man one unassuming day, Cyrus finds himself alert and interested in a way he has never felt before around another person, leaving him desperate for another encounter with the wild, untamed man, who’s damaged past might just make them a perfect match.
My heart ached for everything Crow and Cyrus had been through in their relatively young lives, but the pureness of their connection and the intensity of their chemistry, despite their vast and ongoing mental health struggles, was so beautiful and intimate to witness. Their love story was complicated and simple all at once, and I loved how they grew and healed together, slowly shedding the layers (upon layers) of the unbearably heavy traumas of their pasts, like sunshine slowly breaking through the clouds after a storm.
This was a damn-near perfect hurt-comfort romance, in my opinion, making it an instant M/M favourite, not only by Hart, but also probably of my 2024 reading year in general.
If you enjoyed Hart’s earlier, more emotionally-charged stories, like Endless Stretch of Blue, Weight of the World or Murphy's Law, then I implore you to give On the Mountain your consideration. It’s an emotional ride, but one full of sweetness, tenderness and a deep, lasting love that will leave you feeling all warm and satisfied in the aftermath.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! <3
Deeply moving and breathtakingly romantic, On the Mountain pulls on the heartstrings in a way that reminded me, like a slap to the face, just how damn good a Riley Hart story can be when her character depth, relationship chemistry, and emotional tone is just right.
This may, in fact, be my new favourite of Hart’s stories to date, which is saying something, having now read upwards of 40 books of hers over the past decade. She’s one of the most prolific authors in the M/M genre today and popular for obvious reasons, but every so often she goes beyond just phoning it in with her effortless romances, instead delivering an exceptional story—one that feels more intimate, personal, and raw—ensuring that I keep coming back time and time again, so I don’t miss those standout gems.
On the Mountain is one such standout, telling the simple but profound story of two very different, very complex men, who find love in their previously lonely and isolated lives.
Crow grew up in a cult, away from civilisation, living on a family-owned property high up in the mountains. Having survived the terror and emotional abuse of his youth, that came to a cataclysmic end when his father murdered his mother and the cult was disbanded, Crow was forever scarred, struggling to assimilate into society as he grew into adulthood. Feeling forever the outcast, Crow spent the next ten years on the mountain, living on and working the land, financially sustained by his mother’s inheritance, and preferring the solitude only the wilderness could offer his damaged, misfit heart.
As a selective mute, Crow always experiences fear and sometimes aggression the few times he ventures down the mountain for supply runs, preferring to avoid human interaction at all costs. But after meeting Cyrus, the devastatingly beautiful young man newly working in the hardware store, he finds his mind conflicted with new, seemingly unattainable thoughts of claiming the man who very quickly and permanently burrows his way into Crow’s heart and home.
After Cyrus moves to a small-town in the mountains of Colorado, he’s hoping to find solace and peace, starting afresh as a recovering addict who wants to stay the course, while taming his mental health demons and hopefully building a better life for himself in the process. He’s all alone in the world and that weighs heavy on his heart, but after an intense encounter with the local mountain man one unassuming day, Cyrus finds himself alert and interested in a way he has never felt before around another person, leaving him desperate for another encounter with the wild, untamed man, who’s damaged past might just make them a perfect match.
My heart ached for everything Crow and Cyrus had been through in their relatively young lives, but the pureness of their connection and the intensity of their chemistry, despite their vast and ongoing mental health struggles, was so beautiful and intimate to witness. Their love story was complicated and simple all at once, and I loved how they grew and healed together, slowly shedding the layers (upon layers) of the unbearably heavy traumas of their pasts, like sunshine slowly breaking through the clouds after a storm.
This was a damn-near perfect hurt-comfort romance, in my opinion, making it an instant M/M favourite, not only by Hart, but also probably of my 2024 reading year in general.
If you enjoyed Hart’s earlier, more emotionally-charged stories, like Endless Stretch of Blue, Weight of the World or Murphy's Law, then I implore you to give On the Mountain your consideration. It’s an emotional ride, but one full of sweetness, tenderness and a deep, lasting love that will leave you feeling all warm and satisfied in the aftermath.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! <3
January 23, 2024
I loved this story so much!!! I love it when a story captures your emotions so vividly and effortlessly due to the development of such complicated characters. Crow and Cyrus are two broken, misunderstood, and lonely men who share an instant connection. I also loved the use of nonverbal communication within Crow and Cyrus's relationship. Crow is very selective in who and how he speaks to others and seeing the slow unraveling of his defensive walls was so well done that I loved his beautiful display of growth and trust.
Another amazing element in this story is the use of primal play. Crow has such intense animalistic instincts that makes him the perfect match for someone like Cyrus who feeds off of physical touch and gestures, their complementary natures shows how compatible Cyrus and Crow are for one another.
Together they help one another heal from their past traumas and current struggles. Crow and Cyrus are patient with one another, which includes many swoon-worthy moments. Overall I devoured this story from start to finish and was so sad when their story ended. Crow and Cyrus have a unique love story that I could not get enough of. Their love for one another is so beautifully captured that it leaves you easily wanting more.
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***
Another amazing element in this story is the use of primal play. Crow has such intense animalistic instincts that makes him the perfect match for someone like Cyrus who feeds off of physical touch and gestures, their complementary natures shows how compatible Cyrus and Crow are for one another.
Together they help one another heal from their past traumas and current struggles. Crow and Cyrus are patient with one another, which includes many swoon-worthy moments. Overall I devoured this story from start to finish and was so sad when their story ended. Crow and Cyrus have a unique love story that I could not get enough of. Their love for one another is so beautifully captured that it leaves you easily wanting more.
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***
June 9, 2024
A phenomenally good mixture of pain, smut and love. Beautifully written and emotionally moving.
Unfortunately, I had to read it in stages because Crow's story was a bit exhausting.
Crow
Didn’t they understand I just didn’t want to be here? That it was too big, everything and everyone so close that it felt like it was suffocating me? I just wanted to go home. I wanted to be on my mountain. That was where I belonged. 🥺💗🥺
Cyrus
Sometimes it was scary how easy it was to fake it, to pretend you were happy and life was great. Most people didn’t take the time to look, not really, because if they did, they would see most of us were barely hanging on. 🥺💗🥺
These two up on their mountain and months full of snow and isolation from everything was perfect. Of course, that leaves plenty of time for sex.
“Little lamb…” he said, his voice throaty.
A tingling sensation shot through me, landing in my groin. I backed away from him, hiding behind trees, a whooshing in my ears.
“Where are you, little lamb?” Shivers ran the length of me now, but it had nothing to do with being cold. This was…unexpected and hot. My dick throbbed as he called for me, stalking me. Jesus, I wanted to feel hunted by him. I wanted to be Crow’s prey. 🤤🌶️🤤
And it's really beautiful the way more and more develops between them.
“I love you,” I whispered, then held my breath. Crow released my fingers, confusion clear on his face.
“Why?”
“Because I was meant to love you. I exist to love you, to belong to you.” 😍💞😍
Unfortunately, I had to read it in stages because Crow's story was a bit exhausting.
Crow
Didn’t they understand I just didn’t want to be here? That it was too big, everything and everyone so close that it felt like it was suffocating me? I just wanted to go home. I wanted to be on my mountain. That was where I belonged. 🥺💗🥺
Cyrus
Sometimes it was scary how easy it was to fake it, to pretend you were happy and life was great. Most people didn’t take the time to look, not really, because if they did, they would see most of us were barely hanging on. 🥺💗🥺
These two up on their mountain and months full of snow and isolation from everything was perfect. Of course, that leaves plenty of time for sex.
“Little lamb…” he said, his voice throaty.
A tingling sensation shot through me, landing in my groin. I backed away from him, hiding behind trees, a whooshing in my ears.
“Where are you, little lamb?” Shivers ran the length of me now, but it had nothing to do with being cold. This was…unexpected and hot. My dick throbbed as he called for me, stalking me. Jesus, I wanted to feel hunted by him. I wanted to be Crow’s prey. 🤤🌶️🤤
And it's really beautiful the way more and more develops between them.
“I love you,” I whispered, then held my breath. Crow released my fingers, confusion clear on his face.
“Why?”
“Because I was meant to love you. I exist to love you, to belong to you.” 😍💞😍
June 14, 2024
Managed to finish despite really not wanting to.
Even with my hot and cold feelings toward Hart’s writing, I was looking forward to this book because it sounded like something I’ve managed to not read yet.
This book is just miserable. The characters are miserable, their pasts are miserable, the sex is miserable and repetitive, they have no hope for the future. There’s very little lightheartedness to break up the misery until the very end. It was just really damn depressing and I really struggled to get through it.
*** Spoilers I’m not hiding***
I don’t know what happened to authors writing love stories where they don’t fuck their first intimate interaction, but this trend of “fuck first and feelings later” kind of ruins the build up for me. It ruins the development. And in this story it actually added to the misery. I almost DNF’d after their first cold fuck (with spit as lube and little prep I might add). And from what I’ve read of Hart, is very out of character for her. Of her books I HAVE liked, I liked them because she tells love stories and the growth of a relationship REALLY well. But there isn’t any development here. It’s a toxic insta-love/obsession where the characters don’t get healthy, they just rely on each other to keep their mental health somewhat stable. Not my jam.
And this isn’t the kind of sad and angsty that makes the HEA all the sweeter…
This felt very OTT-how-much-drama-and-pain-can-I-add-to-every-sentence storytelling which I have exactly zero patience for.
I understand some of this is “it’s me not the book” but even if I take out my hatred of the misery, I didn’t really feel connected to the characters at all. I wanted an HEA that felt complete and this just felt like they are doomed.
And by the end when they were saying all of these sweet things to each other, it just felt forced and cheesy.
I guess one positive is the quick passage in the epilogue that both were in virtual therapy. 🥴
I think it may be time for me to finally hang my hat on this author. Based on her posts about all of the effort and love she put into this book.. and this is the result. Yea. I think I’m done.
Even with my hot and cold feelings toward Hart’s writing, I was looking forward to this book because it sounded like something I’ve managed to not read yet.
This book is just miserable. The characters are miserable, their pasts are miserable, the sex is miserable and repetitive, they have no hope for the future. There’s very little lightheartedness to break up the misery until the very end. It was just really damn depressing and I really struggled to get through it.
*** Spoilers I’m not hiding***
I don’t know what happened to authors writing love stories where they don’t fuck their first intimate interaction, but this trend of “fuck first and feelings later” kind of ruins the build up for me. It ruins the development. And in this story it actually added to the misery. I almost DNF’d after their first cold fuck (with spit as lube and little prep I might add). And from what I’ve read of Hart, is very out of character for her. Of her books I HAVE liked, I liked them because she tells love stories and the growth of a relationship REALLY well. But there isn’t any development here. It’s a toxic insta-love/obsession where the characters don’t get healthy, they just rely on each other to keep their mental health somewhat stable. Not my jam.
And this isn’t the kind of sad and angsty that makes the HEA all the sweeter…
This felt very OTT-how-much-drama-and-pain-can-I-add-to-every-sentence storytelling which I have exactly zero patience for.
I understand some of this is “it’s me not the book” but even if I take out my hatred of the misery, I didn’t really feel connected to the characters at all. I wanted an HEA that felt complete and this just felt like they are doomed.
And by the end when they were saying all of these sweet things to each other, it just felt forced and cheesy.
I guess one positive is the quick passage in the epilogue that both were in virtual therapy. 🥴
I think it may be time for me to finally hang my hat on this author. Based on her posts about all of the effort and love she put into this book.. and this is the result. Yea. I think I’m done.
January 20, 2025
5 ⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5/5
Format: audiobook
Narration: 🎤🎤🎤🎤🎤/5
How am I only just now reading a Riley Hart book?!
I loved everything about this.
Crow’s backstory had me intrigued immediately from the prologue. Cults never fail to fascinate me just in general, but I had the biggest soft spot for Crow and just loved seeing his character development and the way his worldview changed completely upon meeting Cyrus.
Cyrus is my favorite kind of character. A sweet, broken boy, just waiting for someone to come in and love them the way they deserve. The way he had instant empathy for Crow and always treated him with kindness and basic human decency.
The forced proximity, the hurt/comfort, the possession and codependency… it was all perfect.
The spice was great but I honestly was so much more interested in their intimate moments. They were just so cute together and I’m obsessed with them.
And as usual, Zachary Johnson (who also goes by Zane Daniels apparently) just nailed the story, the characters, the emotions, and the spice. Perfect narration from a perfect narrator.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5/5
Format: audiobook
Narration: 🎤🎤🎤🎤🎤/5
How am I only just now reading a Riley Hart book?!
I loved everything about this.
Crow’s backstory had me intrigued immediately from the prologue. Cults never fail to fascinate me just in general, but I had the biggest soft spot for Crow and just loved seeing his character development and the way his worldview changed completely upon meeting Cyrus.
Cyrus is my favorite kind of character. A sweet, broken boy, just waiting for someone to come in and love them the way they deserve. The way he had instant empathy for Crow and always treated him with kindness and basic human decency.
The forced proximity, the hurt/comfort, the possession and codependency… it was all perfect.
The spice was great but I honestly was so much more interested in their intimate moments. They were just so cute together and I’m obsessed with them.
And as usual, Zachary Johnson (who also goes by Zane Daniels apparently) just nailed the story, the characters, the emotions, and the spice. Perfect narration from a perfect narrator.
January 26, 2024
2.5 ⭐️
This book has everything I should love, but didn’t.
Crow was reasonably well fleshed out as a character but his mutism written in a way that felt extremely unrealistic. He hadn’t spoken to anyone in over a decade but suddenly is able to speak to Cyrus when it was convenient?
Cyrus was a very un-fleshed out character. We get told he’s a drug addict but we don’t delve into that at any point. His character felt extremely inconsistent throughout making you feel like you never really got to know of understand him.
One of the reasons I was looking forward to reading this is because I’m fascinated by cults. It became evident quite quickly that the author hadn’t done much research around cults and didn’t understand them very well so that was disappointing.
My main issue with this book, I don’t think there was a single bit of dialogue in the entire story that felt natural. It was all so stilted and bizarre I found myself grimacing whenever they spoke.
Lot of potential, horrific delivery.
This book has everything I should love, but didn’t.
Crow was reasonably well fleshed out as a character but his mutism written in a way that felt extremely unrealistic. He hadn’t spoken to anyone in over a decade but suddenly is able to speak to Cyrus when it was convenient?
Cyrus was a very un-fleshed out character. We get told he’s a drug addict but we don’t delve into that at any point. His character felt extremely inconsistent throughout making you feel like you never really got to know of understand him.
One of the reasons I was looking forward to reading this is because I’m fascinated by cults. It became evident quite quickly that the author hadn’t done much research around cults and didn’t understand them very well so that was disappointing.
My main issue with this book, I don’t think there was a single bit of dialogue in the entire story that felt natural. It was all so stilted and bizarre I found myself grimacing whenever they spoke.
Lot of potential, horrific delivery.
April 3, 2024
***3.75 rating***
"You are...everything to me. My salvation, my reason for being"
"On the Mountain" stands out as Riley's latest literary work, showcasing a departure from her usual style refreshingly and compellingly. Entering this literary journey, I found myself pleasantly surprised by Riley's latest book. The narrative unfolds around the intriguing characters of Crowe and Cyrus.
At the introduction of Crowe and Cyrus, both emerge as solitary and fractured individuals, unexpectedly sharing more common ground than one might anticipate. Crowe resides alone on the secluded mountain property he inherited, a place with a haunting history tied to his family's involvement in a cult known as the Enlightened. This dark past significantly shapes Crowe into a guarded, protective individual with a reluctance to trust anyone.
Similarly, Cyrus, a man seeking to escape his tumultuous history, arrives in town. He is captivated by the mysterious Crowe, a silent figure dwelling on the mountain, shrouded in an air of enigma.
The union of Cyrus and Crowe may appear unconventional at first glance, but as their stories intertwine, their connection becomes evident and compelling. Despite their unconventional nature, they complement each other in unexpected ways. However, it's worth noting that the pace of their relationship feels a bit hurried; a slower development would enhance the overall experience.
Riley skillfully steps out of her comfort zone to explore uncharted territories in storytelling, pushing the boundaries of conventional relationships. Crowe and Cyrus, though not everyone's cup of tea, manage to win over readers with their unique connection. Despite the swiftness of their romance, there's an undeniable sense that they are destined to be together.
While "On the Mountain" may not resonate with everyone, the compelling journey of Crowe and Cyrus has the potential to captivate hearts if given the opportunity!
I received a complimentary copy of this arc for free and this is my honest opinion/review
"You are...everything to me. My salvation, my reason for being"
"On the Mountain" stands out as Riley's latest literary work, showcasing a departure from her usual style refreshingly and compellingly. Entering this literary journey, I found myself pleasantly surprised by Riley's latest book. The narrative unfolds around the intriguing characters of Crowe and Cyrus.
At the introduction of Crowe and Cyrus, both emerge as solitary and fractured individuals, unexpectedly sharing more common ground than one might anticipate. Crowe resides alone on the secluded mountain property he inherited, a place with a haunting history tied to his family's involvement in a cult known as the Enlightened. This dark past significantly shapes Crowe into a guarded, protective individual with a reluctance to trust anyone.
Similarly, Cyrus, a man seeking to escape his tumultuous history, arrives in town. He is captivated by the mysterious Crowe, a silent figure dwelling on the mountain, shrouded in an air of enigma.
The union of Cyrus and Crowe may appear unconventional at first glance, but as their stories intertwine, their connection becomes evident and compelling. Despite their unconventional nature, they complement each other in unexpected ways. However, it's worth noting that the pace of their relationship feels a bit hurried; a slower development would enhance the overall experience.
Riley skillfully steps out of her comfort zone to explore uncharted territories in storytelling, pushing the boundaries of conventional relationships. Crowe and Cyrus, though not everyone's cup of tea, manage to win over readers with their unique connection. Despite the swiftness of their romance, there's an undeniable sense that they are destined to be together.
While "On the Mountain" may not resonate with everyone, the compelling journey of Crowe and Cyrus has the potential to captivate hearts if given the opportunity!
I received a complimentary copy of this arc for free and this is my honest opinion/review
Read
August 10, 2024DNF for now… Not in the mood for this type of plot.
December 24, 2025
⭐️ 3 stars ⭐️
This one missed the mark for me. The most interesting bit, Crow’s cult upbringing, wasn’t shown much on page. The writing was all tell no show, and it made On The Mountain a bore to get through.
A case of ‘intriguing plot, bad execution’. Same for the romance. It was nice, I love a good opposites attract, silent vs rambler, broken boys who fix each other. But it lacked more emotion. I didn’t feel their connection. It was more ‘this is the first person who’s cared, so it must be love’ .
The spice was good, especially the primal play, but the missing feels made the rest just blend together. Ultimately, this read didn’t really stand out either way — it wasn’t terrible, but it also didn’t make me feel any warm fuzzies.
CW and NSFW info (spoilers):
- Mentions of cult upbringing
- Loss of a loved one (past)
- Discussion of a murdered parent
- Past drug abuse
- Past childhood neglect/abuse
- Depression/mental illness
- Violence
- Sex on page w/ OP (before MCs become intimate)
- Top/bottom
- Spit as lube
- Hand necklace
- Cock-warming
- Primal play
- Biting
- Rimming
I didn’t want to touch him again.
I wanted to touch him everywhere.
This one missed the mark for me. The most interesting bit, Crow’s cult upbringing, wasn’t shown much on page. The writing was all tell no show, and it made On The Mountain a bore to get through.
How can you love someone as broken as me?
A case of ‘intriguing plot, bad execution’. Same for the romance. It was nice, I love a good opposites attract, silent vs rambler, broken boys who fix each other. But it lacked more emotion. I didn’t feel their connection. It was more ‘this is the first person who’s cared, so it must be love’ .
Jesus, I wanted to feel hunted by him. I wanted to be Crow’s prey.
The spice was good, especially the primal play, but the missing feels made the rest just blend together. Ultimately, this read didn’t really stand out either way — it wasn’t terrible, but it also didn’t make me feel any warm fuzzies.
“I’ve spent my life being an outsider. It’s where I belong.”
“It’s where I belong too.”
CW and NSFW info (spoilers):
- Mentions of cult upbringing
- Loss of a loved one (past)
- Discussion of a murdered parent
- Past drug abuse
- Past childhood neglect/abuse
- Depression/mental illness
- Violence
- Sex on page w/ OP (before MCs become intimate)
- Top/bottom
- Spit as lube
- Hand necklace
- Cock-warming
- Primal play
- Biting
- Rimming
June 13, 2024
Well written hurt/comfort romance between two loners.
Let me start with praising Zane Daniels narrating this book: he was the perfect choice, and I’m sure I wouldn’t have empathised with both characters as much as I did if it wasn’t for him. It’s the story of Crowe, who grew up in a cult and who doesn’t speak (I guess it’s some form of mutism?), but whose inner thoughts, his turmoil and emotions were told in a hoarse, sometimes broken and almost growly voice. And I know that some of the readers said that he growls too much, but if you actually “hear” his real voice, it fits his character perfectly.
I’m not sure if you know what I mean 🤣 listen to the audio, then you’ll know.
Crowe lives on a mountain, the place where the cult lived before, a place he owns because it was bought with his mother’s money. And because he’s such a taciturn recluse, people in the town he occasionally visits think he’s mad, or at least not trustworthy.
And then there’s Cyrus, who recently moved to that small town after getting out of rehab (he’s a drug addict like his late mother). And Cyrus… he’s a good man, without any prejudices against Crowe. And he’s weirdly attracted to the mysterious giant.
I won’t spoil the story, you all know how these things go 😬 there’s not overly much drama, in fact, I’d go as far as to say that it’s almost lighthearted in a way. There’s a lot of trauma both lived through, but both aren’t really broken characters. They’re wary, but not hostile. They have low self esteem, but they’re no pushovers. There’s light kink, but it feels natural and isn’t really the focus. It’s hot, almost in a shifter-romance way (like when Crowe “hunts” his “little lamb” through the woods 🔥).
It has its lengths, but I really enjoyed listening to it. Well done, Ms Kent, not at all what I expected the book to be!
Let me start with praising Zane Daniels narrating this book: he was the perfect choice, and I’m sure I wouldn’t have empathised with both characters as much as I did if it wasn’t for him. It’s the story of Crowe, who grew up in a cult and who doesn’t speak (I guess it’s some form of mutism?), but whose inner thoughts, his turmoil and emotions were told in a hoarse, sometimes broken and almost growly voice. And I know that some of the readers said that he growls too much, but if you actually “hear” his real voice, it fits his character perfectly.
I’m not sure if you know what I mean 🤣 listen to the audio, then you’ll know.
Crowe lives on a mountain, the place where the cult lived before, a place he owns because it was bought with his mother’s money. And because he’s such a taciturn recluse, people in the town he occasionally visits think he’s mad, or at least not trustworthy.
And then there’s Cyrus, who recently moved to that small town after getting out of rehab (he’s a drug addict like his late mother). And Cyrus… he’s a good man, without any prejudices against Crowe. And he’s weirdly attracted to the mysterious giant.
I won’t spoil the story, you all know how these things go 😬 there’s not overly much drama, in fact, I’d go as far as to say that it’s almost lighthearted in a way. There’s a lot of trauma both lived through, but both aren’t really broken characters. They’re wary, but not hostile. They have low self esteem, but they’re no pushovers. There’s light kink, but it feels natural and isn’t really the focus. It’s hot, almost in a shifter-romance way (like when Crowe “hunts” his “little lamb” through the woods 🔥).
It has its lengths, but I really enjoyed listening to it. Well done, Ms Kent, not at all what I expected the book to be!
May 31, 2024
A hot ass mountain man who only talks to u . Yes pls
Definitely check this out if you love mountain men vibes i really enjoyed it . Lots of swoonworthy moments
Definitely check this out if you love mountain men vibes i really enjoyed it . Lots of swoonworthy moments
January 8, 2024
Riley Hart's catalog is diverse, and you never know what she's going to write next, which I like in an author. I've not read all of her books, but I have read quite a few and On the Mountain is at once different from anything else she's written and totally on brand for her.
First off, I'm going to be honest and say that I am not a huge fan of books with cults in them. They make my skin crawl. I don't know why I have such an aversion to them - maybe it's because I'm from Texas, and the spirit of David Koresh still hovers over the state at times. And, I'm old enough to remember the Jim Jones Kool-Aid party and that group of folks who thought a spaceship was going to come pick them up. But I digress.
However, Crow is an interesting enough character that I was able to get through the descriptions of his background without being too uncomfortable. He intrigued me, and I wanted to know more. I loved watching him grow as he let Cyrus get closer and closer to him.
I loved Cyrus, too, for his sunshiny attitude despite his battles with mental health, which Riley did an excellent job of depicting, and his experiences with his mother's addiction, which she also nailed.
Beyond all that, the story is a sweet slow burn that, once it's ignited, is sexy and hot. These two are right next to Joey and Gage as some of my favorite Riley characters.
First off, I'm going to be honest and say that I am not a huge fan of books with cults in them. They make my skin crawl. I don't know why I have such an aversion to them - maybe it's because I'm from Texas, and the spirit of David Koresh still hovers over the state at times. And, I'm old enough to remember the Jim Jones Kool-Aid party and that group of folks who thought a spaceship was going to come pick them up. But I digress.
However, Crow is an interesting enough character that I was able to get through the descriptions of his background without being too uncomfortable. He intrigued me, and I wanted to know more. I loved watching him grow as he let Cyrus get closer and closer to him.
I loved Cyrus, too, for his sunshiny attitude despite his battles with mental health, which Riley did an excellent job of depicting, and his experiences with his mother's addiction, which she also nailed.
Beyond all that, the story is a sweet slow burn that, once it's ignited, is sexy and hot. These two are right next to Joey and Gage as some of my favorite Riley characters.
March 3, 2024
I don't even have words... I just loved this a lot
January 28, 2024
I really, really wanted this book to click for me at some point, which is why I finished it instead of DNFing. The concept is solid, and both of the MMCs have been so hurt in the past and find each other.
This book is heavy on the insta-lust and will be very popular with anyone searching for the "possessive caveman drags off his chosen to his compound" trope, which I know is 'in' right now. The way the MMC is written makes me almost wonder if this was supposed to be a shifter book, because he is constantly growling, snarling, etc.
Due to their pasts and how much trauma both MMCs are carrying, there are tremendous misunderstandings and miscommunications in every chapter. If you're someone who can't stand when characters can't just talk things through, this book is going to be a tough read for you. So many conversations follow a set pattern: character 1 says something vulnerable, character 2 frowns/furrows his brow/looks away/walks out of the room, character 1 lashes out at character 2 for hating him/judging him, character 2 provides context, character 1 feels bad. It is normal for this to show up in virtually every romance novel at some point, but it feels so exhausting in this one because of how often it happens. In one four-page period around the 30-40% mark, there were 4 angry misunderstandings-turned-understandings within the span of 4 pages. It's very much the "men will do XYZ" instead of going to therapy meme at points.
It's also wild how much brutality occurs to one MMC and the other just kind of hand-waves it away at some points? At the grocery store,
I know I'm rambling at this point, but one last thing did make me laugh:
This book is heavy on the insta-lust and will be very popular with anyone searching for the "possessive caveman drags off his chosen to his compound" trope, which I know is 'in' right now. The way the MMC is written makes me almost wonder if this was supposed to be a shifter book, because he is constantly growling, snarling, etc.
Due to their pasts and how much trauma both MMCs are carrying, there are tremendous misunderstandings and miscommunications in every chapter. If you're someone who can't stand when characters can't just talk things through, this book is going to be a tough read for you. So many conversations follow a set pattern: character 1 says something vulnerable, character 2 frowns/furrows his brow/looks away/walks out of the room, character 1 lashes out at character 2 for hating him/judging him, character 2 provides context, character 1 feels bad. It is normal for this to show up in virtually every romance novel at some point, but it feels so exhausting in this one because of how often it happens. In one four-page period around the 30-40% mark, there were 4 angry misunderstandings-turned-understandings within the span of 4 pages. It's very much the "men will do XYZ" instead of going to therapy meme at points.
It's also wild how much brutality occurs to one MMC and the other just kind of hand-waves it away at some points? At the grocery store,
I know I'm rambling at this point, but one last thing did make me laugh:
April 8, 2024
OH MY GOD. Crying sobbing throwing up at this book!!
My first Riley Hart book as well! I loved it so much.
My favorite quotes as always below:
“No one has ever been this nice to me. No one has ever made me feel like I matter. I’ve always been something people can throw away. I don’t know how to deserve this.” “You already do.” I’d told him last night. Cyrus gave me himself. That was all I needed. “She said you were her sun, but you’re mine too.”
“Sometimes my mental illness makes these feelings of worthlessness and sadness feel so much bigger, like they’re breaking me down. It lasts a little while; sometimes days, sometimes more.”
“Sometimes it was scary how easy it was to fake it, to pretend you were happy and life was great. Most people didn’t take the time to look, not really, because if they did, they would see most of us were barely hanging on”
“He looks as lonely as I feel. Maybe lonelier”
Loved the mental health representation!! I will definitely be checking out more books by this author!
My first Riley Hart book as well! I loved it so much.
My favorite quotes as always below:
“No one has ever been this nice to me. No one has ever made me feel like I matter. I’ve always been something people can throw away. I don’t know how to deserve this.” “You already do.” I’d told him last night. Cyrus gave me himself. That was all I needed. “She said you were her sun, but you’re mine too.”
“Sometimes my mental illness makes these feelings of worthlessness and sadness feel so much bigger, like they’re breaking me down. It lasts a little while; sometimes days, sometimes more.”
“Sometimes it was scary how easy it was to fake it, to pretend you were happy and life was great. Most people didn’t take the time to look, not really, because if they did, they would see most of us were barely hanging on”
“He looks as lonely as I feel. Maybe lonelier”
Loved the mental health representation!! I will definitely be checking out more books by this author!
January 27, 2024
2⭐️ Sadly, this missed the mark.
Similar to Risk the Fall, this was just way too rushed and felt very surface level. I didn’t feel anything between these two. Cyrus wasn’t a fully fleshed-out character, so I just couldn’t bring myself to care about him. A lot of the mental health stuff felt preachy and “telling instead of showing” the pain and struggle.
The dialogue between Cyrus and Crow was stilted and unnatural. I found myself cringing at a lot of it.
The instalust didn’t make any sense. I just didn’t buy their instant obsession with one another. I started skimming at 40% when the first sex scene was emotionless and disappointing.
Similar to Risk the Fall, this was just way too rushed and felt very surface level. I didn’t feel anything between these two. Cyrus wasn’t a fully fleshed-out character, so I just couldn’t bring myself to care about him. A lot of the mental health stuff felt preachy and “telling instead of showing” the pain and struggle.
The dialogue between Cyrus and Crow was stilted and unnatural. I found myself cringing at a lot of it.
The instalust didn’t make any sense. I just didn’t buy their instant obsession with one another. I started skimming at 40% when the first sex scene was emotionless and disappointing.
March 2, 2024
Rating: 5
Steam: 3
PoV: dual, 1st person
Genre: contemporary romance, MM
Main tropes: hurt / comfort, mental health, close proximity
On the Mountain was such an incredible story - I had high expectations for this book and it exceeded every single one of them! I totally devoured Cyrus and Crow’s story, it was just one of those stories I couldn’t put down and I loved every page of it!
These men had both been through so much and were still fighting their own battles, and seeing them find comfort and trust in each other was everything. Both Cyrus and Crow had amazing character growth, and it was beautiful to see how they slowly built a relationship out of their almost palpable connection.
I loved how intense and feral Crow could be at times, but he was also so gentle with Cyrus, and it was obvious that he enjoyed taking care of him. I adored Cyrus and how he managed to stay sunshiny despite everything that had happened to him. They fit so well together, and I kept swooning with how sweet they were together and the way they understood each other. The primal play between them felt very natural considering Crow’s personality and I really liked how it added another layer to their relationship.
Crow and Cyrus were both complex characters, and while their connection and chemistry were fantastic, there were still quite a few obstacles that these two needed to overcome. It got heavy at times, but I felt like the mental health struggles and the past trauma and abuse were very skilfully handled and written.
On the Mountain was absolute fantastic - it was an emotional, captivating and passionate read. It’s a story I’ve thought a lot about ever since I finished it, and I’ll definitely go back to it many, many times.
-
Thanks to the author for the opportunity to read and review this book. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
Steam: 3
PoV: dual, 1st person
Genre: contemporary romance, MM
Main tropes: hurt / comfort, mental health, close proximity
On the Mountain was such an incredible story - I had high expectations for this book and it exceeded every single one of them! I totally devoured Cyrus and Crow’s story, it was just one of those stories I couldn’t put down and I loved every page of it!
These men had both been through so much and were still fighting their own battles, and seeing them find comfort and trust in each other was everything. Both Cyrus and Crow had amazing character growth, and it was beautiful to see how they slowly built a relationship out of their almost palpable connection.
I loved how intense and feral Crow could be at times, but he was also so gentle with Cyrus, and it was obvious that he enjoyed taking care of him. I adored Cyrus and how he managed to stay sunshiny despite everything that had happened to him. They fit so well together, and I kept swooning with how sweet they were together and the way they understood each other. The primal play between them felt very natural considering Crow’s personality and I really liked how it added another layer to their relationship.
Crow and Cyrus were both complex characters, and while their connection and chemistry were fantastic, there were still quite a few obstacles that these two needed to overcome. It got heavy at times, but I felt like the mental health struggles and the past trauma and abuse were very skilfully handled and written.
On the Mountain was absolute fantastic - it was an emotional, captivating and passionate read. It’s a story I’ve thought a lot about ever since I finished it, and I’ll definitely go back to it many, many times.
-
Thanks to the author for the opportunity to read and review this book. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
February 10, 2025
“I love you,” I whispered, then held my breath.
Crow released my fingers, confusion clear on his face. “Why?”
“Because I was meant to love you. I exist to love you, to belong to you.”
I loved the idea of this story... an isolated moutain man who wasn't looking for love meets a beautiful young man in desperate need of it. It was a match made in heaven; a story definitely worth telling. Crow and Cyrus were interesting characters, with interesting backgrounds, and they really complimented each other. Their animalistic relationship was sexy and I enjoyed all the ways in which it manifested.This hunting game they liked to play was especially hot. I mean..
"Shivers ran the length of me now, but it had nothing to do with being cold. This was…unexpected and hot. My dick throbbed as he called for me, stalking me. Jesus, I wanted to feel hunted by him. I wanted to be Crow’s prey.
“I’ll find you,” he said. “You can’t hide from me, little lamb. I can smell you…smell how much you want me…the muskiness of your desire, the scent of sugar that always clings to your skin. I’m going to find you, and I’m going to fuck you.”
🤤🤤🤤 I loved this aspect of their relationship.
It's too bad that the overall story wasn't everything I thought it could be. Something was missing and because of that I wasn't as invested in the story as I should've been. I was able to finish it, though...and while I did like it, I couldn't help feeling like this could've been so much better. 3 stars
Crow released my fingers, confusion clear on his face. “Why?”
“Because I was meant to love you. I exist to love you, to belong to you.”
I loved the idea of this story... an isolated moutain man who wasn't looking for love meets a beautiful young man in desperate need of it. It was a match made in heaven; a story definitely worth telling. Crow and Cyrus were interesting characters, with interesting backgrounds, and they really complimented each other. Their animalistic relationship was sexy and I enjoyed all the ways in which it manifested.This hunting game they liked to play was especially hot. I mean..
"Shivers ran the length of me now, but it had nothing to do with being cold. This was…unexpected and hot. My dick throbbed as he called for me, stalking me. Jesus, I wanted to feel hunted by him. I wanted to be Crow’s prey.
“I’ll find you,” he said. “You can’t hide from me, little lamb. I can smell you…smell how much you want me…the muskiness of your desire, the scent of sugar that always clings to your skin. I’m going to find you, and I’m going to fuck you.”
🤤🤤🤤 I loved this aspect of their relationship.
It's too bad that the overall story wasn't everything I thought it could be. Something was missing and because of that I wasn't as invested in the story as I should've been. I was able to finish it, though...and while I did like it, I couldn't help feeling like this could've been so much better. 3 stars
January 27, 2024
This is one of those books that is going to stick with me for a very long time. If you have read Riley Hart before, you know she is an amazing writer, but this book takes that into the next level.
She handles delicate topics of mental health awareness with such poise that you feel the emotions, but they aren't used just to make the book better. These men need each other in a way so deep and primal that once they truly connect their is no turning back for either. They both have mental health issues, but they both accept them as they are and do work through them together, slowly but surely.
OK, so the content warning page can be scary, but the topics are handled in a way you are eased into them and see how they have affected how the characters became they way they are. As I said the mental health awareness was handled masterfully, and I so happy to have read this beautiful story.
She handles delicate topics of mental health awareness with such poise that you feel the emotions, but they aren't used just to make the book better. These men need each other in a way so deep and primal that once they truly connect their is no turning back for either. They both have mental health issues, but they both accept them as they are and do work through them together, slowly but surely.
OK, so the content warning page can be scary, but the topics are handled in a way you are eased into them and see how they have affected how the characters became they way they are. As I said the mental health awareness was handled masterfully, and I so happy to have read this beautiful story.
May 24, 2024
Audio - 5 stars
Story - 4.5 stars
Story - 4.5 stars
January 26, 2024
* 4 stars *
On the Mountain is the story of two people living solitary lives who eventually find each other.
Crow never had a childhood having grown up as the only child in a cult on a mountain. His mother wasn't allowed to show him love or affection and his father, the leader of the cult, was a cruel man who had unreasonable expectations of him and wasn't afraid to deal out punishments. At sixteen, he came into contact with the outside world suddenly and for the first time but he couldn't adapt to life there. Once he became an adult he returned to live on the mountain where he felt most at home.
Cyrus had a slightly different childhood if only for having a mother who showed him love. She was an addict and was selfish a lot of the time, but he was always sure that she loved him and he had fond memories of her and their time together. When he was older and once he had lost her and felt alone, he turned down the same paths as her.
After he ODed he decided it was time for a change so he left. One and a half year after being sober he ended up in a small town called Tranquility located at the foot of a mountain.
And yes, that was Crow's mountain.
The connection and attraction between them was there from the start. There was curiosity too, especially from Crow's side as Cyrus was the cause of emotions he had never experienced before.
At first, the relationship between them wasn't the healthiest as they were codependent, possessive and completely focused on each other. But it was something that worked for them and made them happy and content.
I liked how Crow started opening up and relaxing around Cyrus little by little. How Cyrus was able to coax him out of his shell and help him experience some of the outside world in a positive way. They were mostly alone on the mountain with minimal contact with the outside world but they had the life they wanted and that's all that counted.
~ I read an ARC of this book. ~
On the Mountain is the story of two people living solitary lives who eventually find each other.
Crow never had a childhood having grown up as the only child in a cult on a mountain. His mother wasn't allowed to show him love or affection and his father, the leader of the cult, was a cruel man who had unreasonable expectations of him and wasn't afraid to deal out punishments. At sixteen, he came into contact with the outside world suddenly and for the first time but he couldn't adapt to life there. Once he became an adult he returned to live on the mountain where he felt most at home.
Cyrus had a slightly different childhood if only for having a mother who showed him love. She was an addict and was selfish a lot of the time, but he was always sure that she loved him and he had fond memories of her and their time together. When he was older and once he had lost her and felt alone, he turned down the same paths as her.
After he ODed he decided it was time for a change so he left. One and a half year after being sober he ended up in a small town called Tranquility located at the foot of a mountain.
And yes, that was Crow's mountain.
The connection and attraction between them was there from the start. There was curiosity too, especially from Crow's side as Cyrus was the cause of emotions he had never experienced before.
At first, the relationship between them wasn't the healthiest as they were codependent, possessive and completely focused on each other. But it was something that worked for them and made them happy and content.
I liked how Crow started opening up and relaxing around Cyrus little by little. How Cyrus was able to coax him out of his shell and help him experience some of the outside world in a positive way. They were mostly alone on the mountain with minimal contact with the outside world but they had the life they wanted and that's all that counted.
~ I read an ARC of this book. ~
May 11, 2024
Again, thank you to Tristan for recommending me Riley Hart, because I just read two books that MADE ME GIGGLE AND SQUEAL 100% °❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･
On the Mountain was quite different from Hard Knox because while Hard Knox was fluff and sweet, On the Mountain was heavy and intense. Still it was low on angst in terms of problems outside of the two of the characters. No one got involved with their relationship; their issues and conflicts arised from each other and their past.
Cyrus is a former drug addict and to get away from his toxic ex, he moves to this little town in the mountains. He's still struggling and now moving to a new place, he feels so very much alone. There, he encounters Crow, the mountain man who everyone in that town hates and fears. He doesn't talk to anyone, barely comes down from his cabin, and if so, he does it quickly and goes away again. Cyrus is instantly intrigued by him and wants to talk to him, only to be ignored. On the other side, Crow is also very much intrigued as well but because of his past (he grew up in a cult), he feels like he cannot grow relationships with people outside his mountain so he doesn't even try.
They both have to deal with stuff from their past and inside of themselves before they start to think about anything between them. That's the main "conflict" in the book and it's so amazing to see the development and how the little things make a difference throughout the book. How Crow doesn't fuck if it's not from behind because he hates seeing people's face but that soon changes when it's with Cyrus. Crow doesn't like to kiss either but of course if it's with Cyrus, he totally can't keep his mouth away from him. Crow is a reclusive who doesn't let anyone into his heart, life, home. But Cyrus starts living with him (because THEY CANNOT GET AWAY FROM EACH OTHER) and it feels like it was meant to be. It's the little things that matter!!!!
There is no third-act breakup <3 I sometimes feel that a third-act breakup is needed ngl. I still love a book without a third-act breakup, like I can breathe easily and don't get nervous that they will breakup and be miserable without each other. But yeah, sometimes I CRAVE ONE ♡
I feel like many won't like this book because I think... literally nothing really happens. It's just a book about them co-habiting in a cabin in the mountain for months and trying to see if there's something there and if they can trust each other to never let go, you know? Nothing happens, it's like a slice of life book where they're just living their lives and creating relationships with people. While there is one scene (where Crow gets sick) that makes you think something terrible is going to happen, I think that if you're looking for a book that tells the story of two men who have never had people that stay for them learn that they can find that person, read this one.
On the Mountain was quite different from Hard Knox because while Hard Knox was fluff and sweet, On the Mountain was heavy and intense. Still it was low on angst in terms of problems outside of the two of the characters. No one got involved with their relationship; their issues and conflicts arised from each other and their past.
Cyrus is a former drug addict and to get away from his toxic ex, he moves to this little town in the mountains. He's still struggling and now moving to a new place, he feels so very much alone. There, he encounters Crow, the mountain man who everyone in that town hates and fears. He doesn't talk to anyone, barely comes down from his cabin, and if so, he does it quickly and goes away again. Cyrus is instantly intrigued by him and wants to talk to him, only to be ignored. On the other side, Crow is also very much intrigued as well but because of his past (he grew up in a cult), he feels like he cannot grow relationships with people outside his mountain so he doesn't even try.
They both have to deal with stuff from their past and inside of themselves before they start to think about anything between them. That's the main "conflict" in the book and it's so amazing to see the development and how the little things make a difference throughout the book. How Crow doesn't fuck if it's not from behind because he hates seeing people's face but that soon changes when it's with Cyrus. Crow doesn't like to kiss either but of course if it's with Cyrus, he totally can't keep his mouth away from him. Crow is a reclusive who doesn't let anyone into his heart, life, home. But Cyrus starts living with him (because THEY CANNOT GET AWAY FROM EACH OTHER) and it feels like it was meant to be. It's the little things that matter!!!!
There is no third-act breakup <3 I sometimes feel that a third-act breakup is needed ngl. I still love a book without a third-act breakup, like I can breathe easily and don't get nervous that they will breakup and be miserable without each other. But yeah, sometimes I CRAVE ONE ♡
I feel like many won't like this book because I think... literally nothing really happens. It's just a book about them co-habiting in a cabin in the mountain for months and trying to see if there's something there and if they can trust each other to never let go, you know? Nothing happens, it's like a slice of life book where they're just living their lives and creating relationships with people. While there is one scene (where Crow gets sick) that makes you think something terrible is going to happen, I think that if you're looking for a book that tells the story of two men who have never had people that stay for them learn that they can find that person, read this one.
December 3, 2024
First of all, bravo to Zane Daniels for the narration on this one because I don't think I would have enjoyed it nearly as much if it wasn't for him 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
This one surprised me a bit because I liked it more than I'd expected I would. I had added and removed it from my tbr a couple of times because I wasn't sure it was for me. In the end, I decided to give it a shot because I needed an audiobook to listen to, it was on Hoopla, and I love Zane Daniels/Zachary Johnson.
I'm really glad I decided to try this because it was an enjoyable read despite the heavy topics mentioned. I had expected it to be more painful and dark than it actually ended up being. The stuff that happened to Crow (and Cyrus) was certainly traumatic, but it was mostly glossed over, if I'm being honest - a high level trauma overview of sorts. I'm not sure that much of this was any sort of accurate representation of someone in Crow's position, but honestly I don't know, so I can't comment.
Taking it for the face value love story it was though, I enjoyed it a lot. Crow and Cyrus had great chemistry, and I loved their slow but intense connection 🔥 The way they healed each other was beautiful to read 🥹 Not to repeat myself, but Zane Daniels really sold this story. I loved his interpretation of the characters, though I did find the sound effects (if that's what you'd call them?) an odd choice and not one I particularly cared for. I'm not sure if that was his choice or the author's, but I hope that's not something that becomes a thing. Throughout the vast number of audiobooks I've listened to, I've never had a problem distinguishing internal thoughts to the point that I felt the need to have a "talking in a tin can" type effect added to distinguish them 🙃
This one surprised me a bit because I liked it more than I'd expected I would. I had added and removed it from my tbr a couple of times because I wasn't sure it was for me. In the end, I decided to give it a shot because I needed an audiobook to listen to, it was on Hoopla, and I love Zane Daniels/Zachary Johnson.
I'm really glad I decided to try this because it was an enjoyable read despite the heavy topics mentioned. I had expected it to be more painful and dark than it actually ended up being. The stuff that happened to Crow (and Cyrus) was certainly traumatic, but it was mostly glossed over, if I'm being honest - a high level trauma overview of sorts. I'm not sure that much of this was any sort of accurate representation of someone in Crow's position, but honestly I don't know, so I can't comment.
Taking it for the face value love story it was though, I enjoyed it a lot. Crow and Cyrus had great chemistry, and I loved their slow but intense connection 🔥 The way they healed each other was beautiful to read 🥹 Not to repeat myself, but Zane Daniels really sold this story. I loved his interpretation of the characters, though I did find the sound effects (if that's what you'd call them?) an odd choice and not one I particularly cared for. I'm not sure if that was his choice or the author's, but I hope that's not something that becomes a thing. Throughout the vast number of audiobooks I've listened to, I've never had a problem distinguishing internal thoughts to the point that I felt the need to have a "talking in a tin can" type effect added to distinguish them 🙃
January 26, 2024
DNF 65%
I have loved so many of Riley Hart’s books. She has written some of my absolute faves and is part of the reason I fell in love with M/M romance. Unfortunately, this one just didn’t work for me. It lacked any of the emotional depth that I’ve come to expect from her writing.
Both of these characters have had difficult lives. They’re both lonely. Neither feel they fit in anywhere.
As their backstories are revealed, I would have expected to have at least a few tears, but I had no emotional connection to either of these characters or their stories. The book felt repetitive at times without the character growth to support it. We did see slow changes in Crow, but Cyrus pretty much remained the same up to the point that I stopped reading.
And, it’s sad because this had so many tropes that I love: a reclusive mainly mute MC and another MC that struggles with mental health. I feel she skimmed their character development to focus more on plot points and kinks she wanted to write in to the book and the depth to support them was lacking.
I really wanted to love this and kept hoping it would turn the tide, but I just lost interest and didn’t really care how their story ended. I was expecting a more emotional read and just didn’t find it here.
Endearments / Nicknames: Little Lamb
I have loved so many of Riley Hart’s books. She has written some of my absolute faves and is part of the reason I fell in love with M/M romance. Unfortunately, this one just didn’t work for me. It lacked any of the emotional depth that I’ve come to expect from her writing.
Both of these characters have had difficult lives. They’re both lonely. Neither feel they fit in anywhere.
As their backstories are revealed, I would have expected to have at least a few tears, but I had no emotional connection to either of these characters or their stories. The book felt repetitive at times without the character growth to support it. We did see slow changes in Crow, but Cyrus pretty much remained the same up to the point that I stopped reading.
And, it’s sad because this had so many tropes that I love: a reclusive mainly mute MC and another MC that struggles with mental health. I feel she skimmed their character development to focus more on plot points and kinks she wanted to write in to the book and the depth to support them was lacking.
I really wanted to love this and kept hoping it would turn the tide, but I just lost interest and didn’t really care how their story ended. I was expecting a more emotional read and just didn’t find it here.
Endearments / Nicknames: Little Lamb
January 21, 2024
4.5 rounded to 5
[ I received a digital arc for an honest review]
On the Mountain by Riley Hart is a MM romance between two broken men who have an instant connection and help each other heal.
Crow, who grew up in a cult and lost his mother by his father's hand, Carry's a whole lot of trauma on his shoulders. He lives in the mountains he was raised, but has claimed them for his own. He struggles with words and is quick to anger. Cyrus grew up with an addict mother who loved him the best he could, but after her death he turned to drugs himself until he hit rock bottom. Now he lives a lonely life but doesn't think he deserves more. When he first sees Crow, he recognizes his sadness and instantly wants to get to know him. After a series of events, Cyrus finds himself moving in with Crow on his mountain and the two indulge in their sexual chemistry, the comfort of each other's presence , and the longer they spend together the more Crow opens up. They might not have known each other long, but they never want to be apart.
The short time we had known each other didn’t matter, only our connection did, the deep-rooted feeling inside me that said Cyrus belonged to me.
Ok not sure how I did on that little recap but Oh well. I loved both main characters. Crow is a giant brute of a mountain man who has been hurt by the people he called family. And when ever he steps outside the mountain, people don't give him any reason to stay. His backstory hurt my heart so much, and I just wanted to give him the biggest hug , ( but he wouldn't have enjoyed that ). Then we have Cyrus, who struggled on a daily basis with depression and mood swings that he thought made him unlovable. I was here for all his nervous ramblings and trauma dumping. His backstory and relationship with his mom also broke my heart . These two men just brought all the feels.
“Mine,” I gritted out, biting and kissing his ass cheeks. “Show me. Show me I’m yours. Make me believe you.”
Together they were lovely. Cyrus was patient with Crow, while still encouraging him to express himself and let him in. Crow showed how much he cared not with words but with every little action. He made Cyrus feel wanted and loved, which was exactly what Cyrus needed. The two have some insane sexual chemistry 🔥🔥🔥 they more enjoy rough encounters and some primal play. But they were more than intense, hot and heavy. Their relationship is also full of tender acts like cock warming , leisurely baths , and caring for each other.
“I love the way you smell.” His lips ghosted close to mine, but they didn’t touch me. I growled in response. “The way you feel. The way you make me feel. If I could, I would take away every bad memory you have and replace them with something good.”
Overall On the Mountain a wonderful MM romance with two broken souls , trust , obsessive love , snow days , high steam , heavy feels, and a happy ending.
Other Favorite Quotes
[ I received a digital arc for an honest review]
On the Mountain by Riley Hart is a MM romance between two broken men who have an instant connection and help each other heal.
Crow, who grew up in a cult and lost his mother by his father's hand, Carry's a whole lot of trauma on his shoulders. He lives in the mountains he was raised, but has claimed them for his own. He struggles with words and is quick to anger. Cyrus grew up with an addict mother who loved him the best he could, but after her death he turned to drugs himself until he hit rock bottom. Now he lives a lonely life but doesn't think he deserves more. When he first sees Crow, he recognizes his sadness and instantly wants to get to know him. After a series of events, Cyrus finds himself moving in with Crow on his mountain and the two indulge in their sexual chemistry, the comfort of each other's presence , and the longer they spend together the more Crow opens up. They might not have known each other long, but they never want to be apart.
The short time we had known each other didn’t matter, only our connection did, the deep-rooted feeling inside me that said Cyrus belonged to me.
Ok not sure how I did on that little recap but Oh well. I loved both main characters. Crow is a giant brute of a mountain man who has been hurt by the people he called family. And when ever he steps outside the mountain, people don't give him any reason to stay. His backstory hurt my heart so much, and I just wanted to give him the biggest hug , ( but he wouldn't have enjoyed that ). Then we have Cyrus, who struggled on a daily basis with depression and mood swings that he thought made him unlovable. I was here for all his nervous ramblings and trauma dumping. His backstory and relationship with his mom also broke my heart . These two men just brought all the feels.
“Mine,” I gritted out, biting and kissing his ass cheeks. “Show me. Show me I’m yours. Make me believe you.”
Together they were lovely. Cyrus was patient with Crow, while still encouraging him to express himself and let him in. Crow showed how much he cared not with words but with every little action. He made Cyrus feel wanted and loved, which was exactly what Cyrus needed. The two have some insane sexual chemistry 🔥🔥🔥 they more enjoy rough encounters and some primal play. But they were more than intense, hot and heavy. Their relationship is also full of tender acts like cock warming , leisurely baths , and caring for each other.
“I love the way you smell.” His lips ghosted close to mine, but they didn’t touch me. I growled in response. “The way you feel. The way you make me feel. If I could, I would take away every bad memory you have and replace them with something good.”
Overall On the Mountain a wonderful MM romance with two broken souls , trust , obsessive love , snow days , high steam , heavy feels, and a happy ending.
Other Favorite Quotes
March 12, 2025
Two MC's with troubled past help each other to heal. Crow grew up with his family in a cult all secluded on the mountain. Cyrus has a past with drugs and abuse when theese two meet. They are instantly drawn to each other and you could make a joke about the "snowed in a the cabin scenario" that happends but this was actually real good and emotional.
September 23, 2024
Uff this one was heavy and really sad, both MCs had gone through a lot. I was so happy when they finally met and found happiness with one another.
January 3, 2025
"I love you, you are...everything to me. My salvation, my reason for being."
"I love you, Crow. You're my reason too."
𝘚𝘶𝘮𝘮𝘢𝘳𝘺
Crow, a former cult member now recluse, has lived in the mountains all his life. One of his few infrequent trips to town catches the attention of Cyrus, who’s new to town and far too curious. Both Cyrus and Crow are missing something in their lives, and they may have found it in each other.
𝘗𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘰𝘯𝘢𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴 & 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴
Almost all of my favorite 5-star reads have been very emotional, and after reading the synopsis, I thought this book had potential! In the end, this book felt incomplete, and I think it was the storytelling and execution that I didn't really care for. Cyrus and Crow were intriguing characters, and I enjoyed some of their romance, but this story as a whole lacked spark or something that would have made it stand out and be memorable.
I’ve heard good things about this author and some of her other books, so I’m down to give her another try with one of her more popular/beloved books, but for now I'm unsure how I feel about her writing.
𝘎𝘦𝘯𝘳𝘦𝘴
🏔️ mm romance
🏔️ contemporary romance
𝘛𝘳𝘰𝘱𝘦𝘴
🏔️ snowed in
🏔️ small town
🏔️ hurt x comfort
🏔️ forced proximity
🏔️ grumpy x sunshine
"I love you, Crow. You're my reason too."
𝘚𝘶𝘮𝘮𝘢𝘳𝘺
Crow, a former cult member now recluse, has lived in the mountains all his life. One of his few infrequent trips to town catches the attention of Cyrus, who’s new to town and far too curious. Both Cyrus and Crow are missing something in their lives, and they may have found it in each other.
𝘗𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘰𝘯𝘢𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴 & 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴
Almost all of my favorite 5-star reads have been very emotional, and after reading the synopsis, I thought this book had potential! In the end, this book felt incomplete, and I think it was the storytelling and execution that I didn't really care for. Cyrus and Crow were intriguing characters, and I enjoyed some of their romance, but this story as a whole lacked spark or something that would have made it stand out and be memorable.
I’ve heard good things about this author and some of her other books, so I’m down to give her another try with one of her more popular/beloved books, but for now I'm unsure how I feel about her writing.
𝘎𝘦𝘯𝘳𝘦𝘴
🏔️ mm romance
🏔️ contemporary romance
𝘛𝘳𝘰𝘱𝘦𝘴
🏔️ snowed in
🏔️ small town
🏔️ hurt x comfort
🏔️ forced proximity
🏔️ grumpy x sunshine
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