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Cattle Valley #31
Snake Charmer
Sometimes it takes finding an opposite to show us the beauty within ourselves.
When security consultant and ex-mercenary, Gabrielo ‘Snake’ Barbas, thwarts an attack of one of his co-workers, Riley Banks, he takes it upon himself to keep the smaller man safe. His job is made harder when he discovers the attacker is actually Riley’s ex-boyfriend, a ruthless man from a very wealthy and powerful family.
After a night of passion, Snake decides to take Riley far away from Richmond, Virginia to a town in Wyoming for the annual Cattle Valley Days celebration. He should have known that sex with Riley wouldn’t be enough, but he feels he has nothing else to give such a nice guy. Riley is the sexiest man Snake’s ever taken to his bed despite Riley’s claim otherwise.
Riley knows he’s average-looking at best, so why does Snake continue to flatter him? It’s obvious he’s not going to kick Snake out of bed, even after Snake informs him that sex is all he has to give. Why does Snake see him so differently than the rest of the world?
While Riley is busy trying to figure out the man who touches him like no other has before, Snake is busy trying to protect him from a monster in a business suit.
When security consultant and ex-mercenary, Gabrielo ‘Snake’ Barbas, thwarts an attack of one of his co-workers, Riley Banks, he takes it upon himself to keep the smaller man safe. His job is made harder when he discovers the attacker is actually Riley’s ex-boyfriend, a ruthless man from a very wealthy and powerful family.
After a night of passion, Snake decides to take Riley far away from Richmond, Virginia to a town in Wyoming for the annual Cattle Valley Days celebration. He should have known that sex with Riley wouldn’t be enough, but he feels he has nothing else to give such a nice guy. Riley is the sexiest man Snake’s ever taken to his bed despite Riley’s claim otherwise.
Riley knows he’s average-looking at best, so why does Snake continue to flatter him? It’s obvious he’s not going to kick Snake out of bed, even after Snake informs him that sex is all he has to give. Why does Snake see him so differently than the rest of the world?
While Riley is busy trying to figure out the man who touches him like no other has before, Snake is busy trying to protect him from a monster in a business suit.
100 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 7, 2014
14 people are currently reading
170 people want to read
About the author
Carol Lynne
251 books1,197 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
July 22, 2014
I really like the Cattle Valley series although it seems the stories are getting shorter and shorter.
This story is an opposites attract story with Snake, the crass, violent and somewhat vulgar ex-mercenary coming to the rescue of Riley, a nerdy, accountant who is fleeing a violent ex-boyfriend.
Snake begins to feel quite deeply for Riley which goes against his rules. Snake doesn't do relationships, he only does sex. Riley who is happy to be with Snake if only for a short while suddenly realises both his own self worth and his love for Snake. The story tells us how these two men, very opposite in nature, find a way through their personal issues and make a new life for themselves.
A kind of predictable story but lovable and I enjoyed it. I wish the author would write more books in this series but make them longer. It would be great to revisit some of the older characters and to be able to really immerse myself in Cattle Valley just like I did when the series was new.
This story is an opposites attract story with Snake, the crass, violent and somewhat vulgar ex-mercenary coming to the rescue of Riley, a nerdy, accountant who is fleeing a violent ex-boyfriend.
Snake begins to feel quite deeply for Riley which goes against his rules. Snake doesn't do relationships, he only does sex. Riley who is happy to be with Snake if only for a short while suddenly realises both his own self worth and his love for Snake. The story tells us how these two men, very opposite in nature, find a way through their personal issues and make a new life for themselves.
A kind of predictable story but lovable and I enjoyed it. I wish the author would write more books in this series but make them longer. It would be great to revisit some of the older characters and to be able to really immerse myself in Cattle Valley just like I did when the series was new.
July 18, 2014
So good. I love this series.
September 9, 2014
I received this book via Goodreads' Don't Buy My Love program in exchange for an honest review.
Riley is a petite gay man working as an accountant for a security company. He has an ex-boyfriend, Cal, who was incarcerated for domestic abuse, but he's out now, and wanting revenge. Cal accosts Riley in the parking lot at work, and is abruptly stopped by Snake.
Snake is an ex-special ops military man, working now for a private security firm. He had observed Cal laying in wait for Riley on the video feeds and he stepped in---not only because Riley is a tempting man. Snake agrees to take care of Riley, and protect him from Cal, pretty much moving Riley into his apartment in order to do so. Snake is openly gay, and he's an active sort--which is (apparently) why he insists that he and Riley hit it. Because, also apparently, Snake can't go more than a day or so without sex.
It seems that Snake has lots of bad memories, etc, from his military days, and having sex keeps them at bay. Riley isn't exactly comfortable with casual sex, but he adapts. Cal is still a big problem, however, so Snake takes Riley out to Cattle Valley, all the better to hide him. Of course, there are more problems in Cattle Valley--namely an alcoholic ex of Snake's. Cal is dealt with and it seems life will be okay for Riley and Snake, but not so fast.
It has an HEA, and the smexytimes are fun, but it all seemed a bit rushed for me. I liked Riley bunches, but I wished I could have gotten to know/like Snake sometime sooner. The Cattle Valley connection was lost on me, as I haven't read any of the preceding books, but it was still okay because the story didn't rest on me knowing these secondary characters.
Riley is a petite gay man working as an accountant for a security company. He has an ex-boyfriend, Cal, who was incarcerated for domestic abuse, but he's out now, and wanting revenge. Cal accosts Riley in the parking lot at work, and is abruptly stopped by Snake.
Snake is an ex-special ops military man, working now for a private security firm. He had observed Cal laying in wait for Riley on the video feeds and he stepped in---not only because Riley is a tempting man. Snake agrees to take care of Riley, and protect him from Cal, pretty much moving Riley into his apartment in order to do so. Snake is openly gay, and he's an active sort--which is (apparently) why he insists that he and Riley hit it. Because, also apparently, Snake can't go more than a day or so without sex.
It seems that Snake has lots of bad memories, etc, from his military days, and having sex keeps them at bay. Riley isn't exactly comfortable with casual sex, but he adapts. Cal is still a big problem, however, so Snake takes Riley out to Cattle Valley, all the better to hide him. Of course, there are more problems in Cattle Valley--namely an alcoholic ex of Snake's. Cal is dealt with and it seems life will be okay for Riley and Snake, but not so fast.
It has an HEA, and the smexytimes are fun, but it all seemed a bit rushed for me. I liked Riley bunches, but I wished I could have gotten to know/like Snake sometime sooner. The Cattle Valley connection was lost on me, as I haven't read any of the preceding books, but it was still okay because the story didn't rest on me knowing these secondary characters.
July 12, 2019
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest.
I love the Cattle Valley series. I'm still loving it after three years of reading and following this series. You can never read just one book. You really just breeze through the story and always surprise that you brief look into Cattle Valley is over till the next book comes along. I miss Snake introduction in one of few books I haven't had a chance to read yet. I love Snake and his no filter having mouth. I want know his story and I have to admit that I had more interested in where he is going then Riley. Riley character really didn't click for me. His character was just sort of there for Snake to love somebody and sort of settle in Cattle Valley. I was more particularly worried about the character Guy and what Carol is going to end up going with him. I really hope his character is redeem somehow and not end up being completely destroyed like Fallon from Campus Cravings.
Overall I still enjoyed Snake Charmer and will be continuing with this series to the unforeseen end. But I must say that story are become shorter and bit more rush at the end. I would recommend to those that this series should be read in order but don't feel intimidated about 20 + books. Carol Lynne is Gold star comfort read author. Her writing in these books seems so effortless that you just have to read them all.
I love the Cattle Valley series. I'm still loving it after three years of reading and following this series. You can never read just one book. You really just breeze through the story and always surprise that you brief look into Cattle Valley is over till the next book comes along. I miss Snake introduction in one of few books I haven't had a chance to read yet. I love Snake and his no filter having mouth. I want know his story and I have to admit that I had more interested in where he is going then Riley. Riley character really didn't click for me. His character was just sort of there for Snake to love somebody and sort of settle in Cattle Valley. I was more particularly worried about the character Guy and what Carol is going to end up going with him. I really hope his character is redeem somehow and not end up being completely destroyed like Fallon from Campus Cravings.
Overall I still enjoyed Snake Charmer and will be continuing with this series to the unforeseen end. But I must say that story are become shorter and bit more rush at the end. I would recommend to those that this series should be read in order but don't feel intimidated about 20 + books. Carol Lynne is Gold star comfort read author. Her writing in these books seems so effortless that you just have to read them all.
November 11, 2016
¡Qué lindo es volver a un mundo conocido!, la saga de Cattle Valley de Carol Lynne es una de mis favoritas dentro del género del romance homosexual.
A principios del año leí del número 28 al 30 de esta saga, y ya que luego conseguí un par más este mes me decidí a ponerme con ellos, así llevo la saga al día.
Como bien dice la sinopsis, la pareja principal en este libre es la de Snake y Riley. En libros anteriores se puede ver de pasada algo sobre Snake pero aquí realmente vemos cómo es. En cuanto a Riley, es un empollón en todo regla pero de lo más bonito, este contador creo que es capaz de traer de cabeza a cualquiera y de todas formas ese menospreciarse a sí mismo dan ganas de darle un coscorrón para que se dé cuenta de lo que vale. Snake tiene un pasado duro y oscuro, pero como siempre cuando el amor llega puede producir grandes milagros, las cicatrices pueden seguir allí, pero ya no duelen tanto.
En este libro vemos mucho drama, de la mano de tipos abusivos y fuera de sí, pero también logramos ver el amor que va naciendo entre los personajes y que los acerca más a cada segundo. Además, llegamos a vislumbrar a algunas de las parejas de libros anteriores y ver cómo va su vida.
En definitiva, creo que es una historia más que recomendable, tanto de la autora como dentro de la saga.
A principios del año leí del número 28 al 30 de esta saga, y ya que luego conseguí un par más este mes me decidí a ponerme con ellos, así llevo la saga al día.
Como bien dice la sinopsis, la pareja principal en este libre es la de Snake y Riley. En libros anteriores se puede ver de pasada algo sobre Snake pero aquí realmente vemos cómo es. En cuanto a Riley, es un empollón en todo regla pero de lo más bonito, este contador creo que es capaz de traer de cabeza a cualquiera y de todas formas ese menospreciarse a sí mismo dan ganas de darle un coscorrón para que se dé cuenta de lo que vale. Snake tiene un pasado duro y oscuro, pero como siempre cuando el amor llega puede producir grandes milagros, las cicatrices pueden seguir allí, pero ya no duelen tanto.
En este libro vemos mucho drama, de la mano de tipos abusivos y fuera de sí, pero también logramos ver el amor que va naciendo entre los personajes y que los acerca más a cada segundo. Además, llegamos a vislumbrar a algunas de las parejas de libros anteriores y ver cómo va su vida.
En definitiva, creo que es una historia más que recomendable, tanto de la autora como dentro de la saga.
August 4, 2014
The Blogger Girls
I have been a huge fan of the Cattle Valley series from day one and will read every book that is ever written in this series. This book, however, tested me, and it took a while for me to warm up to Snake. I am almost positive that was the author’s intention, because Snake appears to have been intentionally written as an asshole. He had no filter for whatever he said and expected to be obeyed without question. He was not the kind of alpha that makes you go all teenage girl sigh, but one that made you want to punch him in the throat.
Riley was his complete and total opposite. Whereas Snake was big, built, tattooed, and a mercenary, Riley was small, shy, bullied, beaten up, and an accountant. No one would have pictured these two together except for Snake. Snake saw what others didn’t, and that, my friends, is what warmed me up to the big ol’ knucklehead; that, and his history. Once you learn all about Snake as a child, when you find out how he views himself; then you will allow yourself to open up to the possibility that he might not be such a big jerk after all. Well, yeah, he still is, but you understand why and love him regardless.
We have the requisite visits from some the Cattle Valley residents, and nothing makes me happier then to revisit with Rio and Ryan. Too bad we didn’t get any hot and nasty nookie-nookie from them, but I do love to check in on my favorite hotties. Who I wasn’t happy to see, and what I didn’t expect, was the shit-storm and fallout caused by Guy. Yeah, the man’s an ass and an idiot, and I really hated on him, but I did not predict that ending coming. Now I have to wait to see how it all gets settled. I am not sure what the right solution would be, but I will leave that to Carol Lynne. Whatever happens, I will be there to read it.
I have been a huge fan of the Cattle Valley series from day one and will read every book that is ever written in this series. This book, however, tested me, and it took a while for me to warm up to Snake. I am almost positive that was the author’s intention, because Snake appears to have been intentionally written as an asshole. He had no filter for whatever he said and expected to be obeyed without question. He was not the kind of alpha that makes you go all teenage girl sigh, but one that made you want to punch him in the throat.
Riley was his complete and total opposite. Whereas Snake was big, built, tattooed, and a mercenary, Riley was small, shy, bullied, beaten up, and an accountant. No one would have pictured these two together except for Snake. Snake saw what others didn’t, and that, my friends, is what warmed me up to the big ol’ knucklehead; that, and his history. Once you learn all about Snake as a child, when you find out how he views himself; then you will allow yourself to open up to the possibility that he might not be such a big jerk after all. Well, yeah, he still is, but you understand why and love him regardless.
We have the requisite visits from some the Cattle Valley residents, and nothing makes me happier then to revisit with Rio and Ryan. Too bad we didn’t get any hot and nasty nookie-nookie from them, but I do love to check in on my favorite hotties. Who I wasn’t happy to see, and what I didn’t expect, was the shit-storm and fallout caused by Guy. Yeah, the man’s an ass and an idiot, and I really hated on him, but I did not predict that ending coming. Now I have to wait to see how it all gets settled. I am not sure what the right solution would be, but I will leave that to Carol Lynne. Whatever happens, I will be there to read it.
March 31, 2015
I love this series... I thought they were all done and imagine my surprise when I look the order up and noticed there were two more I haven't read! BONUS!!
Snake is an ex army turned mercenary turned security recruiter... He's kind of a jerk at first, I wasn't sure I liked him much... He had no filter and was rude and more blunt than I would have liked he hurt Riley a couple times with him just throwin out his words without thinking lol and when he saved Riley in the very beginning and then had him up against the wall in the parking garage I was like ...WOW that escalated quickly!! LOL
AND
Riley, trying to escape an abusive ex meets Snake as the security at his job. Snake needing to take him away until he'd be safe from the ex, they go to Cattle Valley.... I loved seein all the regulars, I love Nate, Ryan and Rio which I don't understand cuz I don't dig the m/m/m thing, but they work so well I love all three of them. Snake feels like he doesn't deserve Riley, he's done too much bad in his life... understandable, but Riley brings out the best in him and even though he knows it, he's still prepared to walk away once the threat is gone.... but all it takes something drastic to make Snake realize that he loves Riley and he doesn't wanna be without him... so of course we get our HEA... and it's well deserved for both of them I'd say!
This was a perfect addition to the series even though I would have liked to have seen Cal pay for all the crap he did to Riley instead of just getting scared one night... blah, I would have at least castrated him or something lol
Overall, I was glad I found it and I can't wait to read the next one!
5 stars from me!
Snake is an ex army turned mercenary turned security recruiter... He's kind of a jerk at first, I wasn't sure I liked him much... He had no filter and was rude and more blunt than I would have liked he hurt Riley a couple times with him just throwin out his words without thinking lol and when he saved Riley in the very beginning and then had him up against the wall in the parking garage I was like ...WOW that escalated quickly!! LOL
AND
Riley, trying to escape an abusive ex meets Snake as the security at his job. Snake needing to take him away until he'd be safe from the ex, they go to Cattle Valley.... I loved seein all the regulars, I love Nate, Ryan and Rio which I don't understand cuz I don't dig the m/m/m thing, but they work so well I love all three of them. Snake feels like he doesn't deserve Riley, he's done too much bad in his life... understandable, but Riley brings out the best in him and even though he knows it, he's still prepared to walk away once the threat is gone.... but all it takes something drastic to make Snake realize that he loves Riley and he doesn't wanna be without him... so of course we get our HEA... and it's well deserved for both of them I'd say!
This was a perfect addition to the series even though I would have liked to have seen Cal pay for all the crap he did to Riley instead of just getting scared one night... blah, I would have at least castrated him or something lol
Overall, I was glad I found it and I can't wait to read the next one!
5 stars from me!
August 26, 2014
This book has been given to me free in exchange for an honest review.
This book brings together Snake, an ex-merc who is now employed with a security company, and Riley, an accountant with the same company. Snake sees Riley being harassed by his ex,via security cameras, and comes to his rescue. He then decides Riley needs to have a personal guard (him), while his ex is taken care of (his ex is well connected).
This book is an easy read. Snake, however is not a character that I thought too much about. As stated in the book he had no filters and not very like able.. Within hours of rescuing Riley from an abusive ex, he's all over him and basically telling him that with him not to expect anything more than just sex. And Riley is ok with that, although he falls pretty quickly. In the end Snake's vulnerabilities come out.
This is book 31 in the series and I have read others that I liked much more. I didn't feel the characters would have really come together, but it was also stated in the story that they both saw things in the other that no one else did. And so in the end they fell for one another.
Again not my favorite of this authors, but a nice easy read
This book brings together Snake, an ex-merc who is now employed with a security company, and Riley, an accountant with the same company. Snake sees Riley being harassed by his ex,via security cameras, and comes to his rescue. He then decides Riley needs to have a personal guard (him), while his ex is taken care of (his ex is well connected).
This book is an easy read. Snake, however is not a character that I thought too much about. As stated in the book he had no filters and not very like able.. Within hours of rescuing Riley from an abusive ex, he's all over him and basically telling him that with him not to expect anything more than just sex. And Riley is ok with that, although he falls pretty quickly. In the end Snake's vulnerabilities come out.
This is book 31 in the series and I have read others that I liked much more. I didn't feel the characters would have really come together, but it was also stated in the story that they both saw things in the other that no one else did. And so in the end they fell for one another.
Again not my favorite of this authors, but a nice easy read
July 17, 2014
More a 2,5
I love this series, I really do. I love the people I love the place and I love the drama before the HEAs. But I do not like the way smut and porn seems to of taken over. Snake is a great character but straight away we get the crudeness. It was almost enough to turn me off him.
I also had issues with the speed of certain things. Example
I really hope this series can pull back to the way it started. The last few books seem to be going in the wrong direction for me, (food porn and crassness), but I don't want to leave Cattle Valley yet.
July 18, 2014
I adore this series I honestly can say their isnt a book in this series that i read and didnt like!
This series was my first introduction to this author and she has me hooked every since
reading nearly everything I could find of her hand
This book I can imagine might be difficult for some but for me it felt great
i loved the way the author wrote how snake stands in life
his fierceness , standing tall , arrogance even . but his protective site still you know because of his friends he has and maintains , his loyalty
Great addition to the series and I cannot wait for the next already :)
Carol Lynne keeps bringing in awesome characters to Cattle Valley I hope she isnt done by a long time!
This series was my first introduction to this author and she has me hooked every since
reading nearly everything I could find of her hand
This book I can imagine might be difficult for some but for me it felt great
i loved the way the author wrote how snake stands in life
his fierceness , standing tall , arrogance even . but his protective site still you know because of his friends he has and maintains , his loyalty
Great addition to the series and I cannot wait for the next already :)
Carol Lynne keeps bringing in awesome characters to Cattle Valley I hope she isnt done by a long time!
July 18, 2014
This must be my favourite loooong series ( I often get to the point where I feel I've had enough after about 12-15 books or so!) not so with Cattle Valley. First on my to buy and read piles. This one is no different for me. I loved Snake and his no filter mouth and Riley a much more reserved individual taking to him anyway.
It is ways good to catch up with the guys from the valley. I hope Guy Hoisington learns his lesson this time!
It is ways good to catch up with the guys from the valley. I hope Guy Hoisington learns his lesson this time!
September 3, 2014
2.5 Stars
Well, it started off fun and all, but really petered out in the end. Ended up too rushed, so all that fun and connection that started fizzled out. I am interested in some of the other characters, so maybe I'll read some of the other 30 books before this one. Maybe.
Well, it started off fun and all, but really petered out in the end. Ended up too rushed, so all that fun and connection that started fizzled out. I am interested in some of the other characters, so maybe I'll read some of the other 30 books before this one. Maybe.
March 17, 2021
The story of Snake and Riley. Riley is an adorkably geeky accountant at a security company, who is dealing with a violent ex who is stalking and threatening him. Snake saves him from an attack at their workplace and decides to whisk him away to Cattle Valley to protect him.
I have mixed feelings about this one. I really liked Riley, but didn't like Snake at all. I hated how he treated Riley, which was at times downright abusive. I didn't think he was much of an improvement over the ex. They certainly were opposites.
This story had great potential, full of angst and suspense regarding the violent ex, but I had hoped for more justice/vengeance against the jerk. He got off too easy. Those aspects of the story were glossed over in favor of lots of sex scenes between the 2 MCs who didn't have anything in common and didn't seem like a good match chemistry wise. It all just felt wrong. Towards the end, the story was rushed to a neat little HEA.
I have mixed feelings about this one. I really liked Riley, but didn't like Snake at all. I hated how he treated Riley, which was at times downright abusive. I didn't think he was much of an improvement over the ex. They certainly were opposites.
This story had great potential, full of angst and suspense regarding the violent ex, but I had hoped for more justice/vengeance against the jerk. He got off too easy. Those aspects of the story were glossed over in favor of lots of sex scenes between the 2 MCs who didn't have anything in common and didn't seem like a good match chemistry wise. It all just felt wrong. Towards the end, the story was rushed to a neat little HEA.
June 12, 2021
Snake Charmer Carol Lynne Cattle Valley series book 31. Book was hot from the start. I've been wanting to read Snake's books for a while now cuz everybody said he was blunt into the point no filter. That was for most this book but he finally started letting more his mouth and body control things.
There was plenty of sex which I crave in a book. I definitely didn't see what happened near the end coming. This actually starts the hitting of rock bottom for one the town's people.
Snake finally has a reason not to do the one thing he's always done, well two things when comes to Riley. He usually does men and leaves also kills people for hire in the past. Things change though for the better Nate, Rio and Ryan get in his head along with his own feelings.
Snake even tells him his real name which was wonderful and sweet. Showed what Riley really meant to Snake. It was so better than thought would be too. Knew would be happy cause it's Carol but still my heart was melting.
There was plenty of sex which I crave in a book. I definitely didn't see what happened near the end coming. This actually starts the hitting of rock bottom for one the town's people.
Snake finally has a reason not to do the one thing he's always done, well two things when comes to Riley. He usually does men and leaves also kills people for hire in the past. Things change though for the better Nate, Rio and Ryan get in his head along with his own feelings.
Snake even tells him his real name which was wonderful and sweet. Showed what Riley really meant to Snake. It was so better than thought would be too. Knew would be happy cause it's Carol but still my heart was melting.
December 14, 2020
Cattle Valley
This long ongoing series has a few of this trope included and the author is fantastic at spinning a tale of redemption for these former mercenaries who think they’re unlovable
This long ongoing series has a few of this trope included and the author is fantastic at spinning a tale of redemption for these former mercenaries who think they’re unlovable
July 24, 2014
I do love the Cattle Valley books! Unfortunately this is not my favorite....
Riley is a very stereotypical nerdy gay man, small, plain, quiet, and bullied. His ex lover is the son of a big family and abused him repeatedly, getting away with it due to his family connections. Riley moves, but not out of town, and gets a job in the accounting department of a security firm. Of course Cal, the ex, finds him and attacks him in the parking garage. Snake comes to the rescue, and Cal gets taken away but will not be held, due to a paperwork issue. Snake and Riley's boss says he won't help Riley, because of the family of his abuser. Snake calls a co-owner and gets permission to help him anyway. His help come in the form of bossing him around, scaring him, insulting him, and fucking him. It was one of the least sexy sex scenes I've read. Then off to Cattle Valley they go.
Snake is not particularly nice. He's in security at the moment, but used to be in the military, special forces, then some secret government agent. He has no manners, no filter, is big and obnoxious. He's the son of a biker and seems to have been raised by a biker gang. He's rude and crude. He sees Riley at work but doesn't fuck were he works, so he ignores him. Until he sees he's having a problem in the parking garage and jumps in to help. That may well be a good deed. But. Within minutes he's kissing poor Riley, who has just been ATTACKED by his ex-lover, then running rough shod over him and whisking him away to his apartment, having no understanding or sympathy really, for a man who has obviously been abused by a lover. He is not very nice to Riley, even though he's trying to help him. He decides he needs to get him out of town until he can deal with Cal, and Cattle Valley is a safe place.
So the basic plot was good, these books are all short and slightly rushed, there isn't a lot of time to build a big story. I'm ok with that, I know what to expect. We jump in, get a story, sex, drama, love, and a happy ending. That happens with this one, and it is ok, but I did not like Snake at all. I did not like the way he treated Riley, I don't know why Riley put up with him, I didn't like them as a couple at all. It starts with Riley being attacked by his ex in a parking garage, within minutes Snake has his tongue down Riley's throat and tells him he wants to fuck him. But it's ok, because he doesn't want a relationship only sex. As he tells Riley "God made dicks to be sucked and holes to be filled". Yuck. Then I couldn't get past his poor treatment of Riley, and how he comes pretty close to bullying him. Their first night together he points out that he has a big dick and wants Riley to keep himself lubed so he can take his big dick easier, and so he can finger him when he wants. Then the next morning he makes him wear a plug in his ass with no underwear while they fly from Virginia to Wyoming so he's nice and stretched when they land and he can have him anytime. Ugh. When they get to CV he is an ass to Riley, who is completely baffled by his behavior, and certainly doesn't deserve it. They agree to be fuck-buddies until this gets resolved then go their separate ways. Of course we know that won't happen! Drama does happen however, and Snake gets somewhat better. There is some good drama and action, and some of the other CV boys pop in and out, offering help as needed which was nice to see.
I can usually get past not liking a character and still like the book, but I have to be honest and say my strong dislike of Snake’s treatment of Riley did color my enjoyment of this book. A big thing happens toward the end of the story and Snake does get better, a little to late though. It started out rough for me, and I had a hard time getting in to the groove and liking them together. I still liked the basic plot, there were a few things I didn't understand though. Why didn't Riley leave town after the last attack? Snake freaks when he sees Riley has a phone with him, they turn it off so Cal can't track him, but keep turning it back on to check the messages and texts, never shutting the number off and getting him a new phone. Riley's dad comes to visit, after this big thing happens, then he's not mentioned again. Also, the big thing that happens is caused by another character, but we never find out what happened to him.
The writing was ok, however a big part of the enjoyment of a romance story for me is the connection between the characters and I didn't get it with this one. The sex was hot physically but it lacked an emotional connection. I think if Snake had been more sympathetic and caring of Riley sooner in the story, I could have really liked this one, but it didn't work for me.
A copy of this book was provided for reviewing. This an many more reviews can be seen at www.lovebytesreviews.com!
Riley is a very stereotypical nerdy gay man, small, plain, quiet, and bullied. His ex lover is the son of a big family and abused him repeatedly, getting away with it due to his family connections. Riley moves, but not out of town, and gets a job in the accounting department of a security firm. Of course Cal, the ex, finds him and attacks him in the parking garage. Snake comes to the rescue, and Cal gets taken away but will not be held, due to a paperwork issue. Snake and Riley's boss says he won't help Riley, because of the family of his abuser. Snake calls a co-owner and gets permission to help him anyway. His help come in the form of bossing him around, scaring him, insulting him, and fucking him. It was one of the least sexy sex scenes I've read. Then off to Cattle Valley they go.
Snake is not particularly nice. He's in security at the moment, but used to be in the military, special forces, then some secret government agent. He has no manners, no filter, is big and obnoxious. He's the son of a biker and seems to have been raised by a biker gang. He's rude and crude. He sees Riley at work but doesn't fuck were he works, so he ignores him. Until he sees he's having a problem in the parking garage and jumps in to help. That may well be a good deed. But. Within minutes he's kissing poor Riley, who has just been ATTACKED by his ex-lover, then running rough shod over him and whisking him away to his apartment, having no understanding or sympathy really, for a man who has obviously been abused by a lover. He is not very nice to Riley, even though he's trying to help him. He decides he needs to get him out of town until he can deal with Cal, and Cattle Valley is a safe place.
So the basic plot was good, these books are all short and slightly rushed, there isn't a lot of time to build a big story. I'm ok with that, I know what to expect. We jump in, get a story, sex, drama, love, and a happy ending. That happens with this one, and it is ok, but I did not like Snake at all. I did not like the way he treated Riley, I don't know why Riley put up with him, I didn't like them as a couple at all. It starts with Riley being attacked by his ex in a parking garage, within minutes Snake has his tongue down Riley's throat and tells him he wants to fuck him. But it's ok, because he doesn't want a relationship only sex. As he tells Riley "God made dicks to be sucked and holes to be filled". Yuck. Then I couldn't get past his poor treatment of Riley, and how he comes pretty close to bullying him. Their first night together he points out that he has a big dick and wants Riley to keep himself lubed so he can take his big dick easier, and so he can finger him when he wants. Then the next morning he makes him wear a plug in his ass with no underwear while they fly from Virginia to Wyoming so he's nice and stretched when they land and he can have him anytime. Ugh. When they get to CV he is an ass to Riley, who is completely baffled by his behavior, and certainly doesn't deserve it. They agree to be fuck-buddies until this gets resolved then go their separate ways. Of course we know that won't happen! Drama does happen however, and Snake gets somewhat better. There is some good drama and action, and some of the other CV boys pop in and out, offering help as needed which was nice to see.
I can usually get past not liking a character and still like the book, but I have to be honest and say my strong dislike of Snake’s treatment of Riley did color my enjoyment of this book. A big thing happens toward the end of the story and Snake does get better, a little to late though. It started out rough for me, and I had a hard time getting in to the groove and liking them together. I still liked the basic plot, there were a few things I didn't understand though. Why didn't Riley leave town after the last attack? Snake freaks when he sees Riley has a phone with him, they turn it off so Cal can't track him, but keep turning it back on to check the messages and texts, never shutting the number off and getting him a new phone. Riley's dad comes to visit, after this big thing happens, then he's not mentioned again. Also, the big thing that happens is caused by another character, but we never find out what happened to him.
The writing was ok, however a big part of the enjoyment of a romance story for me is the connection between the characters and I didn't get it with this one. The sex was hot physically but it lacked an emotional connection. I think if Snake had been more sympathetic and caring of Riley sooner in the story, I could have really liked this one, but it didn't work for me.
A copy of this book was provided for reviewing. This an many more reviews can be seen at www.lovebytesreviews.com!
August 26, 2014
3.5 star review by Vicki
I do love the Cattle Valley books! Unfortunately this is not my favorite….
Riley is a very stereotypical nerdy gay man, small, plain, quiet, and bullied. His ex lover is the son of a big family and abused him repeatedly, getting away with it due to his family connections. Riley moves, but not out of town, and gets a job in the accounting department of a security firm. Of course Cal, the ex, finds him and attacks him in the parking garage. Snake comes to the rescue, and Cal gets taken away but will not be held, due to a paperwork issue. Snake and Riley’s boss says he won’t help Riley, because of the family of his abuser. Snake calls a co-owner and gets permission to help him anyway. His help come in the form of bossing him around, scaring him, insulting him, and fucking him. It was one of the least sexy sex scenes I’ve read. Then off to Cattle Valley they go.
Snake is not particularly nice. He’s in security at the moment, but used to be in the military, special forces, then some secret government agent. He has no manners, no filter, is big and obnoxious. He’s the son of a biker and seems to have been raised by a biker gang. He’s rude and crude. He sees Riley at work but doesn’t fuck were he works, so he ignores him. Until he sees he’s having a problem in the parking garage and jumps in to help. That may well be a good deed. But. Within minutes he’s kissing poor Riley, who has just been ATTACKED by his ex-lover, then running rough shod over him and whisking him away to his apartment, having no understanding or sympathy really, for a man who has obviously been abused by a lover. He is not very nice to Riley, even though he’s trying to help him. He decides he needs to get him out of town until he can deal with Cal, and Cattle Valley is a safe place.
So the basic plot was good, these books are all short and slightly rushed, there isn’t a lot of time to build a big story. I’m ok with that, I know what to expect. We jump in, get a story, sex, drama, love, and a happy ending. That happens with this one, and it is ok, but I did not like Snake at all. I did not like the way he treated Riley, I don’t know why Riley put up with him, I didn’t like them as a couple at all. It starts with Riley being attacked by his ex in a parking garage, within minutes Snake has his tongue down Riley’s throat and tells him he wants to fuck him. But it’s ok, because he doesn’t want a relationship only sex. As he tells Riley “God made dicks to be sucked and holes to be filled”. Yuck. Then I couldn’t get past his poor treatment of Riley, and how he comes pretty close to bullying him. Their first night together he points out that he has a big dick and wants Riley to keep himself lubed so he can take his big dick easier, and so he can finger him when he wants. Then the next morning he makes him wear a plug in his ass with no underwear while they fly from Virginia to Wyoming so he’s nice and stretched when they land and he can have him anytime. Ugh. When they get to CV he is an ass to Riley, who is completely baffled by his behavior, and certainly doesn’t deserve it. They agree to be fuck-buddies until this gets resolved then go their separate ways. Of course we know that won’t happen! Drama does happen however, and Snake gets somewhat better. There is some good drama and action, and some of the other CV boys pop in and out, offering help as needed which was nice to see.
I can usually get past not liking a character and still like the book, but I have to be honest and say my strong dislike of Snake’s treatment of Riley did color my enjoyment of this book. A big thing happens toward the end of the story and Snake does get better, a little to late though. It started out rough for me, and I had a hard time getting in to the groove and liking them together. I still liked the basic plot, there were a few things I didn’t understand though. Why didn’t Riley leave town after the last attack? Snake freaks when he sees Riley has a phone with him, they turn it off so Cal can’t track him, but keep turning it back on to check the messages and texts, never shutting the number off and getting him a new phone. Riley’s dad comes to visit, after this big thing happens, then he’s not mentioned again. Also, the big thing that happens is caused by another character, but we never find out what happened to him.
The writing was ok, however a big part of the enjoyment of a romance story for me is the connection between the characters and I didn’t get it with this one. The sex was hot physically but it lacked an emotional connection. I think if Snake had been more sympathetic and caring of Riley sooner in the story, I could have really liked this one, but it didn’t work for me.
A copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review. Please visit www.lovebytesreviews.com to see this and many more reviews!
I do love the Cattle Valley books! Unfortunately this is not my favorite….
Riley is a very stereotypical nerdy gay man, small, plain, quiet, and bullied. His ex lover is the son of a big family and abused him repeatedly, getting away with it due to his family connections. Riley moves, but not out of town, and gets a job in the accounting department of a security firm. Of course Cal, the ex, finds him and attacks him in the parking garage. Snake comes to the rescue, and Cal gets taken away but will not be held, due to a paperwork issue. Snake and Riley’s boss says he won’t help Riley, because of the family of his abuser. Snake calls a co-owner and gets permission to help him anyway. His help come in the form of bossing him around, scaring him, insulting him, and fucking him. It was one of the least sexy sex scenes I’ve read. Then off to Cattle Valley they go.
Snake is not particularly nice. He’s in security at the moment, but used to be in the military, special forces, then some secret government agent. He has no manners, no filter, is big and obnoxious. He’s the son of a biker and seems to have been raised by a biker gang. He’s rude and crude. He sees Riley at work but doesn’t fuck were he works, so he ignores him. Until he sees he’s having a problem in the parking garage and jumps in to help. That may well be a good deed. But. Within minutes he’s kissing poor Riley, who has just been ATTACKED by his ex-lover, then running rough shod over him and whisking him away to his apartment, having no understanding or sympathy really, for a man who has obviously been abused by a lover. He is not very nice to Riley, even though he’s trying to help him. He decides he needs to get him out of town until he can deal with Cal, and Cattle Valley is a safe place.
So the basic plot was good, these books are all short and slightly rushed, there isn’t a lot of time to build a big story. I’m ok with that, I know what to expect. We jump in, get a story, sex, drama, love, and a happy ending. That happens with this one, and it is ok, but I did not like Snake at all. I did not like the way he treated Riley, I don’t know why Riley put up with him, I didn’t like them as a couple at all. It starts with Riley being attacked by his ex in a parking garage, within minutes Snake has his tongue down Riley’s throat and tells him he wants to fuck him. But it’s ok, because he doesn’t want a relationship only sex. As he tells Riley “God made dicks to be sucked and holes to be filled”. Yuck. Then I couldn’t get past his poor treatment of Riley, and how he comes pretty close to bullying him. Their first night together he points out that he has a big dick and wants Riley to keep himself lubed so he can take his big dick easier, and so he can finger him when he wants. Then the next morning he makes him wear a plug in his ass with no underwear while they fly from Virginia to Wyoming so he’s nice and stretched when they land and he can have him anytime. Ugh. When they get to CV he is an ass to Riley, who is completely baffled by his behavior, and certainly doesn’t deserve it. They agree to be fuck-buddies until this gets resolved then go their separate ways. Of course we know that won’t happen! Drama does happen however, and Snake gets somewhat better. There is some good drama and action, and some of the other CV boys pop in and out, offering help as needed which was nice to see.
I can usually get past not liking a character and still like the book, but I have to be honest and say my strong dislike of Snake’s treatment of Riley did color my enjoyment of this book. A big thing happens toward the end of the story and Snake does get better, a little to late though. It started out rough for me, and I had a hard time getting in to the groove and liking them together. I still liked the basic plot, there were a few things I didn’t understand though. Why didn’t Riley leave town after the last attack? Snake freaks when he sees Riley has a phone with him, they turn it off so Cal can’t track him, but keep turning it back on to check the messages and texts, never shutting the number off and getting him a new phone. Riley’s dad comes to visit, after this big thing happens, then he’s not mentioned again. Also, the big thing that happens is caused by another character, but we never find out what happened to him.
The writing was ok, however a big part of the enjoyment of a romance story for me is the connection between the characters and I didn’t get it with this one. The sex was hot physically but it lacked an emotional connection. I think if Snake had been more sympathetic and caring of Riley sooner in the story, I could have really liked this one, but it didn’t work for me.
A copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review. Please visit www.lovebytesreviews.com to see this and many more reviews!
March 2, 2016
“I wish you could see yourself through my eyes...you would see just how beautiful you are, and the extraordinary miracle of being you. If you could climb inside of me right now and feel what I feel for and about you, you would know you are accepted and loved…all of you…just the way you are...” ~Jim Palmer
For years Gabrielo ‘Snake’ Barbas has gone out of his way to avoid emotional involvement, but when he decides to protect Riley Banks, something inside of him shifts. Riley brings out the best in Snake and, although he doesn't know why or how, he can't seem to shake off the feeling that this man is going to be near impossible to keep out of his heart.
Riley is a good guy who has gotten himself into in a bad situation. He trusted the wrong person and now he's paying dearly for it. The man he became involved with turned out to be manipulative and violent. It takes Riley a long time and several visits to the hospital ER before he finally leaves him; unfortunately, no matter where he goes, his abusive ex always finds him and dispenses retribution. In his ex's most recent attempt at harassment, his ex is stopped by an almost immovable object named Snake. This makes his ex want to hurt him even more. Riley is grateful and accepts Snake's protection, which includes a sexual component, although he can't imagine what Snake sees in him. They make a trip to Cattle Valley where Snake believes Riley will be safer. Riley is overwhelmed by the whole series of events, but, he sticks with Snake, although he fears that his growing feelings for him will be rebuffed. He has, after all, been warned that it's just sex and nothing else; but Riley persists because he can see beyond Snake's rough exterior into a softer side, and before Snake knows it, Riley has slithered under his defenses and into Snake's heart.
Snake is a very strong individual with no filters at all. He says what he wants to whenever he wants to regardless of the situation. His bluntness is partially due to his years of having to be cold and calculating in his job as a mercenary. There's no room for emotion when he is in a situation where he may have to kill someone who he becomes involved with. Somewhere along the way, Snake decides that his soul is so black that he has nothing to offer anyone, especially someone like Riley who is so clean-cut, sweet, and loving. The thing is, the heart wants what the heart wants and no amount of reasoning will help. Snake falls in love with Riley before he even realizes it; before now, he was convinced that he is incapable of emotions altogether, much less have the capacity to love. Snake tells Riley about his upbringing, even giving him his real name, Gabrielo. Snake knows that in order for it to work, Riley has to love and accept both parts of him, good or bad. When tragedy strikes, Snake is faced with the depth of his love for Riley and the fact that he never wants to let Riley go.
This is the thirty-first book in the 'Cattle Valley’ series and the thirty-first book I've read. For many, Cattle Valley remains a place of healing, self-discovery, and new beginnings and this holds true for Snake and Riley. I recommend this story to fans, who I am certain will enjoy it; but I also urge others, new to the series, to join us on the Cattle Valley bandwagon. Once you've started reading, it's going to be hard to stop. Thanks, Carol, for another trip to the town, and, especially, for giving Snake and Riley a happy ending. Turning a badass like Snake into a decent guy was no small task, but you managed it brilliantly.
NOTE: This book was provided by Pride Publishing for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews
For years Gabrielo ‘Snake’ Barbas has gone out of his way to avoid emotional involvement, but when he decides to protect Riley Banks, something inside of him shifts. Riley brings out the best in Snake and, although he doesn't know why or how, he can't seem to shake off the feeling that this man is going to be near impossible to keep out of his heart.
Riley is a good guy who has gotten himself into in a bad situation. He trusted the wrong person and now he's paying dearly for it. The man he became involved with turned out to be manipulative and violent. It takes Riley a long time and several visits to the hospital ER before he finally leaves him; unfortunately, no matter where he goes, his abusive ex always finds him and dispenses retribution. In his ex's most recent attempt at harassment, his ex is stopped by an almost immovable object named Snake. This makes his ex want to hurt him even more. Riley is grateful and accepts Snake's protection, which includes a sexual component, although he can't imagine what Snake sees in him. They make a trip to Cattle Valley where Snake believes Riley will be safer. Riley is overwhelmed by the whole series of events, but, he sticks with Snake, although he fears that his growing feelings for him will be rebuffed. He has, after all, been warned that it's just sex and nothing else; but Riley persists because he can see beyond Snake's rough exterior into a softer side, and before Snake knows it, Riley has slithered under his defenses and into Snake's heart.
Snake is a very strong individual with no filters at all. He says what he wants to whenever he wants to regardless of the situation. His bluntness is partially due to his years of having to be cold and calculating in his job as a mercenary. There's no room for emotion when he is in a situation where he may have to kill someone who he becomes involved with. Somewhere along the way, Snake decides that his soul is so black that he has nothing to offer anyone, especially someone like Riley who is so clean-cut, sweet, and loving. The thing is, the heart wants what the heart wants and no amount of reasoning will help. Snake falls in love with Riley before he even realizes it; before now, he was convinced that he is incapable of emotions altogether, much less have the capacity to love. Snake tells Riley about his upbringing, even giving him his real name, Gabrielo. Snake knows that in order for it to work, Riley has to love and accept both parts of him, good or bad. When tragedy strikes, Snake is faced with the depth of his love for Riley and the fact that he never wants to let Riley go.
This is the thirty-first book in the 'Cattle Valley’ series and the thirty-first book I've read. For many, Cattle Valley remains a place of healing, self-discovery, and new beginnings and this holds true for Snake and Riley. I recommend this story to fans, who I am certain will enjoy it; but I also urge others, new to the series, to join us on the Cattle Valley bandwagon. Once you've started reading, it's going to be hard to stop. Thanks, Carol, for another trip to the town, and, especially, for giving Snake and Riley a happy ending. Turning a badass like Snake into a decent guy was no small task, but you managed it brilliantly.
NOTE: This book was provided by Pride Publishing for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews
January 21, 2016
Snake Charmer was given to me by the author through the Goodreads M/M Romance Group’s Don’t Buy My Love Program for an honest review. The story was told in third person through the eyes of Gabrielo “Snake” Barbas and Riley Banks.
November 2, 2014
2-2.5 stars
I receieved a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This was book 31 (wow!) in the Cattle Valley series, and even if it easily reads as a stand alone there are still a confusing amount of side characters and couples introduced, which are obviously MCs in other books in the series...
Snake Charmer tells the story of ex-mercenary Gabrielo 'Snake' Barbas and accountant Riley Banks. Riley is fleeing an abusive partner when he encounters Snake at his work place. Snake steps in and saves Riley from his ex.
The ex is out of a very influential family and restraining orders is not enough to keep him away from Riley, so Snake takes it upon himself to protect the guy by relocating him to the mountain village of Cattle Valley.
Cattle Valley is apparently a gay utopia, where everyone from the Mayor to the bartenders are gay men - there are 3 women mentioned in the book, one is Riley's work colleague, whom we never meet, the two others are a receptionist at a hotel and a transgender partner of one of the guys we meet. This seemed ridiculous and unrealistic to me, but I guess the setting ment that Snake and Riley didn't have to worry about homophobia or discretion among all of their other problems.
The writing flows nicely and the story is easily read. A few editing errors, but nothing major to pull you out of the story. The story itself however was a bit too rushed and cliche for my liking.
I am all for insta-lust, but Riley and Snake have met for about 4 minutes when they are rubbing off on each other up against a wall in their work place and Snake is promising to take Riley home and fuck him! I would have preferred a bit of a lead up to be honest. Even if Riley did feel attracted to the guy, he had JUST been held up by his stalker ex and this big brawny stranger had broken said ex's nose against a car door... I am not sure my first instinct would be to agree to go home with that guy to get fucked?
There was so much potential for angst: Snake's past as a contract killer, his alcoholism, his ex'es (we meet two of them), Riley's insecurities about his looks, Rileys abusive ex... But the book never reaches deep enough to really touch anything emotional.
They both end up declaring their love for one another, but I never saw that love develop. I saw sex and I was told that they fell in love, but I didn't feel it unfortunately. So the whole relationship was a bit lacking for me... And unfortunately the sex I saw really wasn't that interesting or hot. Just because a guy's got a big dick, does not make him a fantastic lover...
All in all though, easily read but not a story which will make me go back to read the others in the series. But don't take my word for it, I can see that many love these stories...
I receieved a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This was book 31 (wow!) in the Cattle Valley series, and even if it easily reads as a stand alone there are still a confusing amount of side characters and couples introduced, which are obviously MCs in other books in the series...
Snake Charmer tells the story of ex-mercenary Gabrielo 'Snake' Barbas and accountant Riley Banks. Riley is fleeing an abusive partner when he encounters Snake at his work place. Snake steps in and saves Riley from his ex.
The ex is out of a very influential family and restraining orders is not enough to keep him away from Riley, so Snake takes it upon himself to protect the guy by relocating him to the mountain village of Cattle Valley.
Cattle Valley is apparently a gay utopia, where everyone from the Mayor to the bartenders are gay men - there are 3 women mentioned in the book, one is Riley's work colleague, whom we never meet, the two others are a receptionist at a hotel and a transgender partner of one of the guys we meet. This seemed ridiculous and unrealistic to me, but I guess the setting ment that Snake and Riley didn't have to worry about homophobia or discretion among all of their other problems.
The writing flows nicely and the story is easily read. A few editing errors, but nothing major to pull you out of the story. The story itself however was a bit too rushed and cliche for my liking.
I am all for insta-lust, but Riley and Snake have met for about 4 minutes when they are rubbing off on each other up against a wall in their work place and Snake is promising to take Riley home and fuck him! I would have preferred a bit of a lead up to be honest. Even if Riley did feel attracted to the guy, he had JUST been held up by his stalker ex and this big brawny stranger had broken said ex's nose against a car door... I am not sure my first instinct would be to agree to go home with that guy to get fucked?
There was so much potential for angst: Snake's past as a contract killer, his alcoholism, his ex'es (we meet two of them), Riley's insecurities about his looks, Rileys abusive ex... But the book never reaches deep enough to really touch anything emotional.
They both end up declaring their love for one another, but I never saw that love develop. I saw sex and I was told that they fell in love, but I didn't feel it unfortunately. So the whole relationship was a bit lacking for me... And unfortunately the sex I saw really wasn't that interesting or hot. Just because a guy's got a big dick, does not make him a fantastic lover...
All in all though, easily read but not a story which will make me go back to read the others in the series. But don't take my word for it, I can see that many love these stories...
July 29, 2014
What can I say? Carol Lynne has successfully written thirty-one stories about Cattle Valley, and I cannot wait for number thirty-two. I have read every one of these books, and I can honestly say that I absolutely love over 99% of them. The only ones that are not my favorite are the ones that are WAY TOO SHORT! I think I have read this entire series twice. If you are a fan of this series or a fan of Carol Lynne, you will love it! Reading Carol Lynne is like crack. I am totally addicted and have read every book she has written.
This story begins with a newer character that was developed in Fingerprints and Muddy Feet, Gabrielo “Snake” Barbas. He is a security consultant, ex-merc and love interest from Ryan’s past. He was also raised in a MC gang, covered with beautiful tattoos and rides a Harley (what else needs to be said?). Snake works for Tisdale security and has had his eye on Riley, a cute accountant with glasses and a “bubble butt”. He has always wanted to approach him for his famous one night stands but is afraid that it might be against company policy, until Riley is threatened by his ex-lover, Cal Nieman, a tobacco plantation heir from North Carolina. Riley was previously hospitalized because of Cal’s abuse, for which Cal actually served some time. Riley has a restraining order against Cal, which he ignores, and becomes a threat to Riley again. Snake steps in and feels the need to protect Riley even if it costs him his job. Due to the influence of the Nieman name, Snake decides to take Riley to Cattle Valley while he tries to extinguish the threat back East.
Obviously, there is an immediate attraction between the characters, and they both struggle with their own personal issues about having a relationship. Snake is extremely blunt, and Riley is more of the self-deprecating type but does have his moments where he becomes feisty and sticks up for himself. You cannot help but to fall in love with both of these characters. I wanted to shake both of them several times until their teeth rattled, but that is normal occurrence with Carol Lynne’s characters.
We get to see many of our favorite characters from the series, and then we see a few of our not-so-favorites, who create havoc. Tragedy strikes the duo and Cattle Valley does what they do best—rally around their own for support. This is a great addition to the series, and I cannot wait until the next one! You will not be disappointed. Enjoy.
This story begins with a newer character that was developed in Fingerprints and Muddy Feet, Gabrielo “Snake” Barbas. He is a security consultant, ex-merc and love interest from Ryan’s past. He was also raised in a MC gang, covered with beautiful tattoos and rides a Harley (what else needs to be said?). Snake works for Tisdale security and has had his eye on Riley, a cute accountant with glasses and a “bubble butt”. He has always wanted to approach him for his famous one night stands but is afraid that it might be against company policy, until Riley is threatened by his ex-lover, Cal Nieman, a tobacco plantation heir from North Carolina. Riley was previously hospitalized because of Cal’s abuse, for which Cal actually served some time. Riley has a restraining order against Cal, which he ignores, and becomes a threat to Riley again. Snake steps in and feels the need to protect Riley even if it costs him his job. Due to the influence of the Nieman name, Snake decides to take Riley to Cattle Valley while he tries to extinguish the threat back East.
Obviously, there is an immediate attraction between the characters, and they both struggle with their own personal issues about having a relationship. Snake is extremely blunt, and Riley is more of the self-deprecating type but does have his moments where he becomes feisty and sticks up for himself. You cannot help but to fall in love with both of these characters. I wanted to shake both of them several times until their teeth rattled, but that is normal occurrence with Carol Lynne’s characters.
We get to see many of our favorite characters from the series, and then we see a few of our not-so-favorites, who create havoc. Tragedy strikes the duo and Cattle Valley does what they do best—rally around their own for support. This is a great addition to the series, and I cannot wait until the next one! You will not be disappointed. Enjoy.
March 30, 2016
Title: Snake Charmer
Author: Carol Lynne
Publisher: Totally Bound
ISBN: 9781784301132
Buy Link: https://www.totallybound.com/snake-ch...
Reviewer: Teresa Fallen Angel
Blurb:
Cattle Valley 31
Sometimes it takes finding an opposite to show us the beauty within ourselves.
When security consultant and ex-mercenary, Gabrielo ‘Snake’ Barbas, thwarts an attack of one of his co-workers, Riley Banks, he takes it upon himself to keep the smaller man safe. His job is made harder when he discovers the attacker is actually Riley’s ex-boyfriend, a ruthless man from a very wealthy and powerful family.
After a night of passion, Snake decides to take Riley far away from Richmond, Virginia to a town in Wyoming for the annual Cattle Valley Days celebration. He should have known that sex with Riley wouldn’t be enough, but he feels he has nothing else to give such a nice guy. Riley is the sexiest man Snake’s ever taken to his bed despite Riley’s claim otherwise.
Riley knows he’s average-looking at best, so why does Snake continue to flatter him? It’s obvious he’s not going to kick Snake out of bed, even after Snake informs him that sex is all he has to give. Why does Snake see him so differently than the rest of the world?
While Riley is busy trying to figure out the man who touches him like no other has before, Snake is busy trying to protect him from a monster in a business suit.
Summary:
Riley and Snake's lives and personalities couldn't have been more different. Snake's job as a mercenary kept him apart from people and he never became emotionally attached to anyone until he came to Riley's rescue. Riley was determined to start over if only his ex-boyfriend would stop harassing and abusing him. Snake was all big and bad until he found he couldn't keep his emotional distance from Riley. Taking Riley to Cattle Valley may have began just to keep him safe, but soon Snake began to feel different especially after he saw how happy Riley was. Can Snake see that your past can't hold you back especially if one very special person sees the good in you. Riley may not be the strongest man, but his will to start a new and better life may be just what Snake needs.
Author: Carol Lynne
Publisher: Totally Bound
ISBN: 9781784301132
Buy Link: https://www.totallybound.com/snake-ch...
Reviewer: Teresa Fallen Angel
Blurb:
Cattle Valley 31
Sometimes it takes finding an opposite to show us the beauty within ourselves.
When security consultant and ex-mercenary, Gabrielo ‘Snake’ Barbas, thwarts an attack of one of his co-workers, Riley Banks, he takes it upon himself to keep the smaller man safe. His job is made harder when he discovers the attacker is actually Riley’s ex-boyfriend, a ruthless man from a very wealthy and powerful family.
After a night of passion, Snake decides to take Riley far away from Richmond, Virginia to a town in Wyoming for the annual Cattle Valley Days celebration. He should have known that sex with Riley wouldn’t be enough, but he feels he has nothing else to give such a nice guy. Riley is the sexiest man Snake’s ever taken to his bed despite Riley’s claim otherwise.
Riley knows he’s average-looking at best, so why does Snake continue to flatter him? It’s obvious he’s not going to kick Snake out of bed, even after Snake informs him that sex is all he has to give. Why does Snake see him so differently than the rest of the world?
While Riley is busy trying to figure out the man who touches him like no other has before, Snake is busy trying to protect him from a monster in a business suit.
Summary:
Riley and Snake's lives and personalities couldn't have been more different. Snake's job as a mercenary kept him apart from people and he never became emotionally attached to anyone until he came to Riley's rescue. Riley was determined to start over if only his ex-boyfriend would stop harassing and abusing him. Snake was all big and bad until he found he couldn't keep his emotional distance from Riley. Taking Riley to Cattle Valley may have began just to keep him safe, but soon Snake began to feel different especially after he saw how happy Riley was. Can Snake see that your past can't hold you back especially if one very special person sees the good in you. Riley may not be the strongest man, but his will to start a new and better life may be just what Snake needs.
September 5, 2014
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
Snake Charmer is the 31st book in the Cattle Valley series and my first read in the series. I wondered if it would be a problem jumping in at this point in a long running series, but found that in this story about Snake and Riley who don’t originate in Cattle Valley, I didn’t feel lost at any point. Having read other long running series, I know that sometimes the background on the story arc and characters seems to be continually regurgitated, but it didn’t seem that way in here.
I enjoyed meeting Snake, a security consultant and ex-mercenary and Riley, an accountant. Snake and Riley work at the same security firm, and when Snake observes Riley being attacked by his ex-boyfriend at the workplace, Snake appoints himself Riley’s protector. To best protect Riley, Snake takes him to Cattle Valley where Snake has friends.
Riley is insecure in his appearance and doesn’t think he’s attractive enough for Snake, and Snake believes he has a black stain on his soul and isn’t worthy of anyone, much less someone as great as he believes Riley to be. I feel the story was too short in page length and length of time for the relationship between Riley and Snake to develop as strongly as it was portrayed. For two guys who have lived with their insecurities for as long as they have, they overcame those obstacles in a matter of days.
I am interested in reading other stories in this series and from looking at blurbs of some of the other books, I will have to carefully choose an appropriate starting point other than book 1, but a reader should not fear reading this one as a stand-alone or as an introduction to the folks of Cattle Valley.
Snake Charmer is the 31st book in the Cattle Valley series and my first read in the series. I wondered if it would be a problem jumping in at this point in a long running series, but found that in this story about Snake and Riley who don’t originate in Cattle Valley, I didn’t feel lost at any point. Having read other long running series, I know that sometimes the background on the story arc and characters seems to be continually regurgitated, but it didn’t seem that way in here.
I enjoyed meeting Snake, a security consultant and ex-mercenary and Riley, an accountant. Snake and Riley work at the same security firm, and when Snake observes Riley being attacked by his ex-boyfriend at the workplace, Snake appoints himself Riley’s protector. To best protect Riley, Snake takes him to Cattle Valley where Snake has friends.
Riley is insecure in his appearance and doesn’t think he’s attractive enough for Snake, and Snake believes he has a black stain on his soul and isn’t worthy of anyone, much less someone as great as he believes Riley to be. I feel the story was too short in page length and length of time for the relationship between Riley and Snake to develop as strongly as it was portrayed. For two guys who have lived with their insecurities for as long as they have, they overcame those obstacles in a matter of days.
I am interested in reading other stories in this series and from looking at blurbs of some of the other books, I will have to carefully choose an appropriate starting point other than book 1, but a reader should not fear reading this one as a stand-alone or as an introduction to the folks of Cattle Valley.
July 24, 2014
This is book 31 of this series and it stands alone quite well.
Snake is an ex-mercenary that is working for a security company and not quite satisfied with his life. He has made a lot of changes, quit drinking got out of the field but feels his soul is irrevocably darkened.
Riley is a sweet, innocent geek that is on the run from an abusive rich boyfriend. All Riley wants is someone to love him and accept him as an equal, show him respect and not control him.
I loved both men and the story line. I have a soft spot for tough, men with a secret soft side and I love a geek that is tougher than he looks or appears. I also like broken men that get at least a very good HfN or HEA and a bad man that is redeemed. I got it all here. I absolutely loved the end.
I would have loved it to be a bit longer and perhaps had a bit more refresher on Guy and a little less predictability. I felt the storyline part of Cal and Riley could have been drawn out a bit more but I was very happy with the resolution. Having read quite a few of the Cattle Valley books I have a bit of issue with it seeming the entire town is gay, but then again this is fiction and every story I have read is awesome.
If you like strong, dark, mysterious men with a softer side, Mercenaries, Geeks, A sweet sexy romance with drama, suspense and intrigue, some hot mansex and a touching ending this is definitely for you!
* I received a copy of this book free-of-charge from MMgoodbookreviews http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com/ in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own*
Snake is an ex-mercenary that is working for a security company and not quite satisfied with his life. He has made a lot of changes, quit drinking got out of the field but feels his soul is irrevocably darkened.
Riley is a sweet, innocent geek that is on the run from an abusive rich boyfriend. All Riley wants is someone to love him and accept him as an equal, show him respect and not control him.
I loved both men and the story line. I have a soft spot for tough, men with a secret soft side and I love a geek that is tougher than he looks or appears. I also like broken men that get at least a very good HfN or HEA and a bad man that is redeemed. I got it all here. I absolutely loved the end.
I would have loved it to be a bit longer and perhaps had a bit more refresher on Guy and a little less predictability. I felt the storyline part of Cal and Riley could have been drawn out a bit more but I was very happy with the resolution. Having read quite a few of the Cattle Valley books I have a bit of issue with it seeming the entire town is gay, but then again this is fiction and every story I have read is awesome.
If you like strong, dark, mysterious men with a softer side, Mercenaries, Geeks, A sweet sexy romance with drama, suspense and intrigue, some hot mansex and a touching ending this is definitely for you!
* I received a copy of this book free-of-charge from MMgoodbookreviews http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com/ in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own*
April 13, 2016
I recently read the first 30 books in this series and while they are not epic stories and will probably not go down in history as any kind of literary masterpieces. I've quite enjoyed my little foray into the town of Cattle Valley and it's residents.
I believe one of my previous reviews compared the series to a soap opera. Well that hasn't changed but this last episode pulled at a few more of my heartstrings than I had been prepared for and I thoroughly enjoyed it, tissue in hand.
Snake is our big bad ex-mercenary, who just happens to believe that men like him just aren't loveable especially to someone like sweet geekie accounting department employees like Riley.
These two men are both so filled with issues and each has things from their past that haunt them or in Riley's case stalks him.
Whatever the reason these two guys just clicked for me. Everything about them had me gushing like a star-struck school girl. I wanted them to find their happily ever after, to be together and lovin' on each other like no one else could.
But one should always be careful what they wish for because what these two men went through to get there broke my heart and this was where the tissue came in handy. Still all in all it was by far my favourite story in this series so far and I have a sneaky suspicion that no matter what else may come Riley and Snake will always be at the top of my list for Cattle Valley residents I adore.
I believe one of my previous reviews compared the series to a soap opera. Well that hasn't changed but this last episode pulled at a few more of my heartstrings than I had been prepared for and I thoroughly enjoyed it, tissue in hand.
Snake is our big bad ex-mercenary, who just happens to believe that men like him just aren't loveable especially to someone like sweet geekie accounting department employees like Riley.
These two men are both so filled with issues and each has things from their past that haunt them or in Riley's case stalks him.
Whatever the reason these two guys just clicked for me. Everything about them had me gushing like a star-struck school girl. I wanted them to find their happily ever after, to be together and lovin' on each other like no one else could.
But one should always be careful what they wish for because what these two men went through to get there broke my heart and this was where the tissue came in handy. Still all in all it was by far my favourite story in this series so far and I have a sneaky suspicion that no matter what else may come Riley and Snake will always be at the top of my list for Cattle Valley residents I adore.
September 1, 2014
Hearts on Fire Review
****4 1/2 stars****
Original Review Published here: http://heartsonfirereviews.com/?p=28786
Snake Charmer is the thirty first book in the Cattle Valley series by Carol Lynne. While this book is part of a series, it can be read and enjoyed as a standalone novel.
Gabrielo “Snake” Barbas works for a security firm since leaving the military. He has done things in his life that he is not proud of and internalizes a lot of guilty for what he has done. Its apparent that he has a heart of gold because he stepped into an argument that he did not have too to do the right thing.
Riley Banks seems to taken advantage of a lot. He got involved with a guy that others around town do not want to mess with so they don’t even bother helping. Riley falls head over heels for Snake. He sees the man underneath the exterior.
The connection between Snake and Riley is blistering. They fit each other is ways neither expected. I liked how Snake did not understand why others did not see how sexy Riley was. The sex scenes were scorching.
I found this book is well written. The overall plot was very enchanting. The main and secondary characters were fascinating. The ending was a bit predictable but I enjoyed all the twists and turns in the story. Overall, this was a great book. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series
****4 1/2 stars****
Original Review Published here: http://heartsonfirereviews.com/?p=28786
Snake Charmer is the thirty first book in the Cattle Valley series by Carol Lynne. While this book is part of a series, it can be read and enjoyed as a standalone novel.
Gabrielo “Snake” Barbas works for a security firm since leaving the military. He has done things in his life that he is not proud of and internalizes a lot of guilty for what he has done. Its apparent that he has a heart of gold because he stepped into an argument that he did not have too to do the right thing.
Riley Banks seems to taken advantage of a lot. He got involved with a guy that others around town do not want to mess with so they don’t even bother helping. Riley falls head over heels for Snake. He sees the man underneath the exterior.
The connection between Snake and Riley is blistering. They fit each other is ways neither expected. I liked how Snake did not understand why others did not see how sexy Riley was. The sex scenes were scorching.
I found this book is well written. The overall plot was very enchanting. The main and secondary characters were fascinating. The ending was a bit predictable but I enjoyed all the twists and turns in the story. Overall, this was a great book. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series
January 24, 2015
3.5 stars. After making my way through 11 of these books for a challenge, I discovered this series mostly sticks to a certain pattern. Big, strong, man paired with a "little" man. A defined top and bottom. A fair amount of sex. Big problems, easy solutions. Insta-love.
Even though these stories are formulaic, I couldn't help but get sucked into the charm of Cattle Valley and its residents. I liked catching up with the other couples, and of course, seeing that big Mary Sue about town, Nate.
"Snake Charmer" follows the formula. Snake or Riley barely know each other's names before they were hopping into bed and having the most meaningful sex of their lives. Snake intercedes when Riley is threatened by an abusive ex. Only one place to take him for his safety -- Cattle Valley, of course, where everyone is welcome and you're sure to meet he man of your dreams. Were Riley and Snake a believable couple? No. Did I buy into their love? Not really. Will I be reading more from this series? Yes. You have to take these couples at face value.
I was most intrigued with Guy. His fate was left up in the air. I'm hoping that's not the last we see of him. I'd love to see him star in his own story.
Even though these stories are formulaic, I couldn't help but get sucked into the charm of Cattle Valley and its residents. I liked catching up with the other couples, and of course, seeing that big Mary Sue about town, Nate.
"Snake Charmer" follows the formula. Snake or Riley barely know each other's names before they were hopping into bed and having the most meaningful sex of their lives. Snake intercedes when Riley is threatened by an abusive ex. Only one place to take him for his safety -- Cattle Valley, of course, where everyone is welcome and you're sure to meet he man of your dreams. Were Riley and Snake a believable couple? No. Did I buy into their love? Not really. Will I be reading more from this series? Yes. You have to take these couples at face value.
I was most intrigued with Guy. His fate was left up in the air. I'm hoping that's not the last we see of him. I'd love to see him star in his own story.
August 30, 2014
I received this book from the Author through the m/m romance group's Don't Buy Me Love Program in exchange for an honest review.
Although this is #31 in Cattle Valley Series, it's the first one that I've read. I can't really say why but for some reason I've just never actually gotten around to reading this series. That is most definitely an oversight that I will be rectifying soon. Though I had no problem reading this out of order I must read more about all of the citizens of Cattle Valley.
Ms. Lynne, has created such a nice little town filled with nice people and into this town we follow Snake & Riley. Two very different men who each have issues and baggage to deal with before they too can find their HEA. Along the way we meet a slew of characters and told enough about them that I didn't feel lost at all. I enjoyed getting to know rough around the edges, no verbal filter, Snake and sweet, scared Riley.... Oh, I just want to hug him and assure him that small, nerdy guys are sexy too!
I highly recommend this book. The only thing that kept it from being a 5 star for me is the length, I just would have liked to spend more time with these great guys.
Although this is #31 in Cattle Valley Series, it's the first one that I've read. I can't really say why but for some reason I've just never actually gotten around to reading this series. That is most definitely an oversight that I will be rectifying soon. Though I had no problem reading this out of order I must read more about all of the citizens of Cattle Valley.
Ms. Lynne, has created such a nice little town filled with nice people and into this town we follow Snake & Riley. Two very different men who each have issues and baggage to deal with before they too can find their HEA. Along the way we meet a slew of characters and told enough about them that I didn't feel lost at all. I enjoyed getting to know rough around the edges, no verbal filter, Snake and sweet, scared Riley.... Oh, I just want to hug him and assure him that small, nerdy guys are sexy too!
I highly recommend this book. The only thing that kept it from being a 5 star for me is the length, I just would have liked to spend more time with these great guys.
September 21, 2014
I received this book from the Author through the m/m romance group's Don't Buy Me Love Program in exchange for an honest review.
Let's start saying this book is the 31st in the Cattle Valley series and I'm ashamed to tell you it's my first. Why didn't I read anything about this series before? I need to start reading it from the start cause I'm curious about Nate, Rio and Ryan.
Don't worry this book can be read as a standalone and you'll miss nothing. It was an easy read, full of love, friendship and sex, just what I like to read.
I was disappointed because Snake Charmer was too short and I'd have liked to know more about Riley and Snake.
At the beginning I was afraid their relationship could be stereotypical, Snake, all alpha, an ex-mercenary rescue Riley, a nerdy accountant with an abusive ex-boyfriend, and I'm sorry to say I was right. But still it was an enjoyable reading and a lovely story.
Let's start saying this book is the 31st in the Cattle Valley series and I'm ashamed to tell you it's my first. Why didn't I read anything about this series before? I need to start reading it from the start cause I'm curious about Nate, Rio and Ryan.
Don't worry this book can be read as a standalone and you'll miss nothing. It was an easy read, full of love, friendship and sex, just what I like to read.
I was disappointed because Snake Charmer was too short and I'd have liked to know more about Riley and Snake.
At the beginning I was afraid their relationship could be stereotypical, Snake, all alpha, an ex-mercenary rescue Riley, a nerdy accountant with an abusive ex-boyfriend, and I'm sorry to say I was right. But still it was an enjoyable reading and a lovely story.
August 24, 2014
I have received this book in exchange for an honest review, many thanks to the author for being brave and believing in her story enough to do this.
This is my first story in the Cattle Valley Series and it is number 31. Yes I know, I'm late to the party but thankful I got here.
Do not be perturbed that this is #31 in a series, it can be read as a standalone. From reading a Campus Cravings story I was introduced to Cattle Valley and the wonderful community found within its borders. However, even that introduction was not needed to full enjoy this tale.
Snake and Riley are two different men, physically and vocationally, and yet they form a bond of love that goes beyond looks and deep into the heart. This is a tale of running from yourself, because you deem yourself unworthy and finding yourself when who you are is exactly what you should be.
A wonderful introduction to the series and I can’t wait to enjoy some more.
This is my first story in the Cattle Valley Series and it is number 31. Yes I know, I'm late to the party but thankful I got here.
Do not be perturbed that this is #31 in a series, it can be read as a standalone. From reading a Campus Cravings story I was introduced to Cattle Valley and the wonderful community found within its borders. However, even that introduction was not needed to full enjoy this tale.
Snake and Riley are two different men, physically and vocationally, and yet they form a bond of love that goes beyond looks and deep into the heart. This is a tale of running from yourself, because you deem yourself unworthy and finding yourself when who you are is exactly what you should be.
A wonderful introduction to the series and I can’t wait to enjoy some more.
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