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Range #7
A Chaotic Range
Stories from the Range: Book Seven
Most of the time ranchhand David rescues stray cattle, but this time he and his fellow cowboys Wally and Haven save a stranded motorist. David is surprised to find his former high school classmate nearly frozen in his car. After learning that Brian Applewright's boss fired him from his ranch for being gay, they invite him back to theirs to take a job.
David and Brian moved in different social circles at school, but working together brings them closer. However, David has a rocky history on the ranch. The foreman is his ex, and he only recently returned after a heartbreakingly unsuccessful attempt to find greener pastures. He can't risk his heart getting close to anyone.
But on a ranch, nature has a way of forcing an issue. When a snowstorm threatens, David and Brian head out to mend a fence and round up some stray cattle. David gets injured, and they must survive in the snow, cold, and wind. It might be the start of a relationship... or the end of their lives.
Most of the time ranchhand David rescues stray cattle, but this time he and his fellow cowboys Wally and Haven save a stranded motorist. David is surprised to find his former high school classmate nearly frozen in his car. After learning that Brian Applewright's boss fired him from his ranch for being gay, they invite him back to theirs to take a job.
David and Brian moved in different social circles at school, but working together brings them closer. However, David has a rocky history on the ranch. The foreman is his ex, and he only recently returned after a heartbreakingly unsuccessful attempt to find greener pastures. He can't risk his heart getting close to anyone.
But on a ranch, nature has a way of forcing an issue. When a snowstorm threatens, David and Brian head out to mend a fence and round up some stray cattle. David gets injured, and they must survive in the snow, cold, and wind. It might be the start of a relationship... or the end of their lives.
200 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 1, 2014
12 people are currently reading
280 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
November 13, 2014
Andrew Grey has a series of "range" stories with overlapping characters. This is the newest of those stories. It's been a while since we have been back at the range for a story. Now you have to realize that Andrew Grey's stories follow a basic formula -- for the range stories, there is always an outcast who finds his love. Knowing that, you could write the entire story of this book after reading the first 20 pages.
In this story, the outcast is Brian, and the lover is David. Well, it doesn't take long until the two are involved in a sexual relationship. The problem with this book is my criticism of many of Andrew Grey's books. He writes passionate sex scenes; but, he gets bogged down in them. There is a good story here between two emotionally damaged people who find mutual healing in their love. But, I think the author does not explore the healing between these two main characters. Instead, in accordance with his formula, there is insta-love/lust and then an epilogue.
Despite its flaws, this book gets my recommendation. Use your own imagination to fill in the gaps of the story. Overall, this book gets 3.5 stars from me on the Goodreads' scale.
In this story, the outcast is Brian, and the lover is David. Well, it doesn't take long until the two are involved in a sexual relationship. The problem with this book is my criticism of many of Andrew Grey's books. He writes passionate sex scenes; but, he gets bogged down in them. There is a good story here between two emotionally damaged people who find mutual healing in their love. But, I think the author does not explore the healing between these two main characters. Instead, in accordance with his formula, there is insta-love/lust and then an epilogue.
Despite its flaws, this book gets my recommendation. Use your own imagination to fill in the gaps of the story. Overall, this book gets 3.5 stars from me on the Goodreads' scale.
November 29, 2014
This installment was the usual warm fuzzies,and was a great lazy day read. My only issue was the fight at the end, it seemed so forced.
November 8, 2014
Brian Applewright is searching for a home, a safe place where he can just be himself without fear of persecution when he winds up stranded in a ditch in the middle of a horrible snow storm. When the dust settles Brian finds himself on a Ranch surrounded by people like him, and one very familiar face. Brian remembers David from school even if they weren’t friends, even back then Brian wouldn’t act on his attraction to David.
David hasn’t made the wisest decisions as of late, turning away from his long term boyfriend Mario when the two drifted apart. Neither one of them ever really faced up to their own faults where as the demise of their relationship was concerned, but with Brian in the picture now, David feels like he needs to face his past and own his mistakes before they permanently damage the future.
Snow storms, frost bite, broken ankles and angry ex boyfriends turn out to be the least of their worries. The biggest obstacle Brian and David will have to overcome is their equally large and wounded pride. Brian fears getting close to anyone, every time he does it only brings him heartache, and being gay has only brought chaos into his life. David has yet to accept his own part in his ill fated relationship with the Ranch’s foreman, and his trust issues threaten the still fragile relationship with Brian when David chooses to believe a lie. Will their mutual inability to let go of the past destroy their chance at a future?
I was drawn into this story from the start in the mind of a man that was so beat down, he was ready to lie down and die. Only to be rescued and shown that not everyone is hateful and vindictive, there are people out there that care and will help without any expectations. While most of this story is told from Brian’s point of view, starting in his car stuck in the snow storm, occasionally you get to take a ride with David. It was definitely a treat to see what each man was thinking, then getting to see how they perceived each other as well. David is sort of broken after what he has been through, scared to dare to hope for happiness. And then he gets a glimpse of it only to feel like the rug is being pulled out from under his feet, again, it was almost heart breaking.
And while I wanted to hate David after his storyline in the previous books, watching him struggle with the decisions he’d made and then coming to terms with things made me warm up to him a bit. Then he went all out to convince Brian his feelings were true and sincere, even sharing with him how he really saw him in high school, so he quickly went from someone I disliked to someone I loved and was rooting for by the end. That is a testament to Grey’s writing prowess, that he took a character he initially wrote as a bad guy and literally transformed him with his words and thoughts.
Definitely a must read for Cowboy romance junkie fans, but there is a story here that I think any fans of the M/M genre will enjoy. I really liked the sexier edge to this story as well. Brian and David share an obvious chemistry that is fuelled by passion and emotions, and it was conveyed well in the story. This one will probably be permanently qued on my kindle so I can go back and read it over and over, whenever I want!
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
David hasn’t made the wisest decisions as of late, turning away from his long term boyfriend Mario when the two drifted apart. Neither one of them ever really faced up to their own faults where as the demise of their relationship was concerned, but with Brian in the picture now, David feels like he needs to face his past and own his mistakes before they permanently damage the future.
Snow storms, frost bite, broken ankles and angry ex boyfriends turn out to be the least of their worries. The biggest obstacle Brian and David will have to overcome is their equally large and wounded pride. Brian fears getting close to anyone, every time he does it only brings him heartache, and being gay has only brought chaos into his life. David has yet to accept his own part in his ill fated relationship with the Ranch’s foreman, and his trust issues threaten the still fragile relationship with Brian when David chooses to believe a lie. Will their mutual inability to let go of the past destroy their chance at a future?
I was drawn into this story from the start in the mind of a man that was so beat down, he was ready to lie down and die. Only to be rescued and shown that not everyone is hateful and vindictive, there are people out there that care and will help without any expectations. While most of this story is told from Brian’s point of view, starting in his car stuck in the snow storm, occasionally you get to take a ride with David. It was definitely a treat to see what each man was thinking, then getting to see how they perceived each other as well. David is sort of broken after what he has been through, scared to dare to hope for happiness. And then he gets a glimpse of it only to feel like the rug is being pulled out from under his feet, again, it was almost heart breaking.
And while I wanted to hate David after his storyline in the previous books, watching him struggle with the decisions he’d made and then coming to terms with things made me warm up to him a bit. Then he went all out to convince Brian his feelings were true and sincere, even sharing with him how he really saw him in high school, so he quickly went from someone I disliked to someone I loved and was rooting for by the end. That is a testament to Grey’s writing prowess, that he took a character he initially wrote as a bad guy and literally transformed him with his words and thoughts.
Definitely a must read for Cowboy romance junkie fans, but there is a story here that I think any fans of the M/M genre will enjoy. I really liked the sexier edge to this story as well. Brian and David share an obvious chemistry that is fuelled by passion and emotions, and it was conveyed well in the story. This one will probably be permanently qued on my kindle so I can go back and read it over and over, whenever I want!
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
September 29, 2015
In the best tradition of the ‘Stories from the Range’ series, this final book focuses on two men who have made mistakes in the past and are trying to build a new life for themselves. That one of them was David, the runaway ex-lover of ranch foreman Mario from the previous book, made me especially happy. Yes, he made a huge mistake, but everyone deserves a second chance. That is, after all, what this series is all about. Most of the men at Dakota, Wally, Phillip, and Haven’s merged ranches are “rescues”, so David and Brian with their checkered pasts fit right in. As always with Andrew Grey’s books, their journey to love had a few stops and starts and some heartache, but it was a joy to follow. The scary moments and encounters with a freezing cold Wyoming winter kept up the suspense.
Brian is desperate when he arrives at the ranch, and almost dies in a snow storm. He has been fired because the ranch hands where he used to work didn’t like that he is gay and set him up. He has no money, no food, and runs out of gas not far from the ranch house – except he can’t see anything due to nonexistent visibility. Luckily David, Phillip, and Haven find him and take him in. And even though he is determined never to look at another man again, David quickly works his way into his heart. Brian is hesitant, having been a man’s “dark little secret” before. And he also still has a lot of rumors to deal with, so things aren’t as easy as they look.
David is back at Dakota and Wally’s ranch despite the fact he left Mario, their foreman, two years ago to be with another man. Now that Mario is with Gordon, David has some truths to face and feelings to deal with, and it isn’t easy. He feels awful about having run and doesn’t really believe he deserves a second chance. His attraction to Brian is undeniable and after a couple of life-threatening close encounters with more snow storms, David needs to reconsider. But he also has to learn to stop running when things get tough, and that is hard for him.
If you liked the other books in this series, you will love this volume. If you like reading abut life n a ranch and what some cowboys get up to behind closed doors (and elsewhere!), this is your opportunity to find out. And if you’re looking for a sweet story about two men who are fighting their pasts as much as their own nature of jumping to conclusions, then you will probably like this novel as much as I did. It’s a shame this is the final book, so I’ll just have to go back to the beginning and read them all again!
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Brian is desperate when he arrives at the ranch, and almost dies in a snow storm. He has been fired because the ranch hands where he used to work didn’t like that he is gay and set him up. He has no money, no food, and runs out of gas not far from the ranch house – except he can’t see anything due to nonexistent visibility. Luckily David, Phillip, and Haven find him and take him in. And even though he is determined never to look at another man again, David quickly works his way into his heart. Brian is hesitant, having been a man’s “dark little secret” before. And he also still has a lot of rumors to deal with, so things aren’t as easy as they look.
David is back at Dakota and Wally’s ranch despite the fact he left Mario, their foreman, two years ago to be with another man. Now that Mario is with Gordon, David has some truths to face and feelings to deal with, and it isn’t easy. He feels awful about having run and doesn’t really believe he deserves a second chance. His attraction to Brian is undeniable and after a couple of life-threatening close encounters with more snow storms, David needs to reconsider. But he also has to learn to stop running when things get tough, and that is hard for him.
If you liked the other books in this series, you will love this volume. If you like reading abut life n a ranch and what some cowboys get up to behind closed doors (and elsewhere!), this is your opportunity to find out. And if you’re looking for a sweet story about two men who are fighting their pasts as much as their own nature of jumping to conclusions, then you will probably like this novel as much as I did. It’s a shame this is the final book, so I’ll just have to go back to the beginning and read them all again!
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
November 7, 2014
Let's start with a life threatening event and a rescue. Then rinse, wash, and repeat until spring. A Chaotic Range is one of Andrew Grey's most thrilling books. The latest in a favorite series, the Range series, Mr. Grey lets us see some of our favorite characters from the series and at least one that, well, wasn't my favorite until this book.
Brian is smart, knowledgeable about ranching, and gay. Despite those first two characteristics he is fired from his job in the middle of a deadly winter for the last one, with no place to go and no job prospects. David, whom we've met before, does a 180 in this book and finds redemption from previous mistakes.
When something happens to David a tight bond is forged between David and Brian and we get our happy ever after. I respected the characters, who didn't fall into a happy ever after easily, loved following a somewhat complex plot, and found myself to be awfully glad I live where it doesn't snow. Great story, highly recommended.
Brian is smart, knowledgeable about ranching, and gay. Despite those first two characteristics he is fired from his job in the middle of a deadly winter for the last one, with no place to go and no job prospects. David, whom we've met before, does a 180 in this book and finds redemption from previous mistakes.
When something happens to David a tight bond is forged between David and Brian and we get our happy ever after. I respected the characters, who didn't fall into a happy ever after easily, loved following a somewhat complex plot, and found myself to be awfully glad I live where it doesn't snow. Great story, highly recommended.
November 9, 2014
comfort reading and this book in the series I enjoyed a lot more than the last couple of books
October 25, 2015
Reviewed at The Blogger Girls.
Fired from his job right in the middle of winter, ranchhand Brian tries to find work and a place to stay elsewhere when he ends up crashing his car during a horrible storm. Thankfully, David, Haven and Phillip find him before he can freeze to death and bring him home to the range. Offering him to stay and work the range, Brian’s all too willing to accept especially when his high school crush is one of the people who saved him. It’s been years since David saw Brian and while they weren’t in the same social circles, David still remembers Brian. And they may be interested in each other but both men don’t want to have any type of relationship. But when David gets injured when they try to round up some stray cattle and end up stranded in a snow storm instead, will they be able to resist the attraction between them?
This was such a sweet story. I loved the fact that Brian and David sort of knew each other from when they were young and even though their hometown is miles and miles away, they still ended up on the same range. Coincidence or fate? More than that, I adored the fact they both had crushes on each other. Brian was geeky in school while David was a jock but that didn’t stop them from noticing each other even if they never actually spoke to one another. As adults, they’re both a bit jaded. Brian was just let go because his co-workers didn’t like the fact he was gay and started sabotaging his work. And David is struggling with being back on the range after how he treated not just his ex-lover (who works on the same range, sort of) but also his friends when he left them to go off with some trick. They have their own issues but the connection they have from the start is easy and alluring to the point that they get close very fast even though they didn’t want to pursue anything.
I really enjoyed this one but I found some parts of the story to be a bit repetitive. Mostly, the inner monologue of both David and Brian. I LOVED them but David would bring up hurting Mario or Brian would bring up crushing on David in high school just a few times too many. There were other things they’d repeat as well and I could understand WHY they’d constantly think about those things but it didn’t stop me from wishing they’d move on from harping on certain issues.
In the end, I really liked this one. While I haven’t read any of the other Range series, I was still able to read this one as a standalone because while there were hints about past relationships and conflicts, it wasn’t so overbearing or confusing to follow along and understand when/what happened during those times. I loved the setting, the easy acceptance and behavior around the ranch but I also liked that Brian and David, while not friends when they were young, still had a past in common. Now that I’ve read this story, though, I’ll definitely be going back and reading the first books in the series. Plus, I’d love to see how Haven and Phillip got together!
Fired from his job right in the middle of winter, ranchhand Brian tries to find work and a place to stay elsewhere when he ends up crashing his car during a horrible storm. Thankfully, David, Haven and Phillip find him before he can freeze to death and bring him home to the range. Offering him to stay and work the range, Brian’s all too willing to accept especially when his high school crush is one of the people who saved him. It’s been years since David saw Brian and while they weren’t in the same social circles, David still remembers Brian. And they may be interested in each other but both men don’t want to have any type of relationship. But when David gets injured when they try to round up some stray cattle and end up stranded in a snow storm instead, will they be able to resist the attraction between them?
This was such a sweet story. I loved the fact that Brian and David sort of knew each other from when they were young and even though their hometown is miles and miles away, they still ended up on the same range. Coincidence or fate? More than that, I adored the fact they both had crushes on each other. Brian was geeky in school while David was a jock but that didn’t stop them from noticing each other even if they never actually spoke to one another. As adults, they’re both a bit jaded. Brian was just let go because his co-workers didn’t like the fact he was gay and started sabotaging his work. And David is struggling with being back on the range after how he treated not just his ex-lover (who works on the same range, sort of) but also his friends when he left them to go off with some trick. They have their own issues but the connection they have from the start is easy and alluring to the point that they get close very fast even though they didn’t want to pursue anything.
I really enjoyed this one but I found some parts of the story to be a bit repetitive. Mostly, the inner monologue of both David and Brian. I LOVED them but David would bring up hurting Mario or Brian would bring up crushing on David in high school just a few times too many. There were other things they’d repeat as well and I could understand WHY they’d constantly think about those things but it didn’t stop me from wishing they’d move on from harping on certain issues.
In the end, I really liked this one. While I haven’t read any of the other Range series, I was still able to read this one as a standalone because while there were hints about past relationships and conflicts, it wasn’t so overbearing or confusing to follow along and understand when/what happened during those times. I loved the setting, the easy acceptance and behavior around the ranch but I also liked that Brian and David, while not friends when they were young, still had a past in common. Now that I’ve read this story, though, I’ll definitely be going back and reading the first books in the series. Plus, I’d love to see how Haven and Phillip got together!
April 5, 2017
Ive enjoyed this series of books set on a Wyoming ranch where alot of the cowboys are gay and are accepted.
This story focused onDavid and Brian. David finds Brian after he loses control of his car in a bad snow storm. Although not hiring, Brian is given a place to stay.
There was some angst here but not alot. There were plenty of appearances from previous couples. I had stretched this series out but alas I had to read the final book. A great series.
This story focused onDavid and Brian. David finds Brian after he loses control of his car in a bad snow storm. Although not hiring, Brian is given a place to stay.
There was some angst here but not alot. There were plenty of appearances from previous couples. I had stretched this series out but alas I had to read the final book. A great series.
May 29, 2015
Note: This audiobook was provided to me by the publisher through Hearts on Fire Reviews in exchange for an impartial review.
This is the seventh in the range series, which I’ve enjoyed immensely, but the first audiobook I’ve listened to in this series. Listening to audio gave voice to many of the characters I had come to know, and I found that it reinforced my view of a few characters and simply added to my enjoyment of the whole series.
This story features David, the man who broke Mario’s heart when he left him years ago and returned six months previously to find that Mario had found the love of his life in the intervening years. David’s been at loose ends all this time, not making peace with Mario, and still thinking about what could have been. He’s working on Haven and Phillip’s part of the ranch because Wally and Dakota felt it was better to have him away from Mario and his new partner, Gordon.
David and a group of men are out patrolling the ranch when they discover a car ditched in a snowbank during a particularly bad snowstorm. The man inside, Brian Applewright, was trying to find shelter and lost his way as his car ran out of gas. He’d been fired from the ranch he previously worked at, ostensibly because he was stealing things, but in reality it was because he was gay and he was set up.
Once they get him back to the ranch, David and Brian discover that they attended high school together and they’re immediately drawn to each other. They begin a tenuous relationship, one that is shattered when David hears the rumors about Brian and blindly believes them.
David has to find the answers within himself before he can go forward with proving to Brian that he is worthy of Brian’s trust again, and the surprising ally he finds backing him makes the story all the more endearing.
This story is fairly simple, without any major drama. I enjoyed this one, and I honestly hope the series continues because I’ve come to enjoy Wally and Dakota and their gay and not-so-gay ranch-hands with all their life dramas.
Andrew McFerrin did a great job with the vocalizations, providing a different tone for each character. Some of the voices were exactly what I would picture for the character, others were a surprise. I would recommend this story in this audiobook format since it’s fairly short and easy listening.
3.5 stars
This is the seventh in the range series, which I’ve enjoyed immensely, but the first audiobook I’ve listened to in this series. Listening to audio gave voice to many of the characters I had come to know, and I found that it reinforced my view of a few characters and simply added to my enjoyment of the whole series.
This story features David, the man who broke Mario’s heart when he left him years ago and returned six months previously to find that Mario had found the love of his life in the intervening years. David’s been at loose ends all this time, not making peace with Mario, and still thinking about what could have been. He’s working on Haven and Phillip’s part of the ranch because Wally and Dakota felt it was better to have him away from Mario and his new partner, Gordon.
David and a group of men are out patrolling the ranch when they discover a car ditched in a snowbank during a particularly bad snowstorm. The man inside, Brian Applewright, was trying to find shelter and lost his way as his car ran out of gas. He’d been fired from the ranch he previously worked at, ostensibly because he was stealing things, but in reality it was because he was gay and he was set up.
Once they get him back to the ranch, David and Brian discover that they attended high school together and they’re immediately drawn to each other. They begin a tenuous relationship, one that is shattered when David hears the rumors about Brian and blindly believes them.
David has to find the answers within himself before he can go forward with proving to Brian that he is worthy of Brian’s trust again, and the surprising ally he finds backing him makes the story all the more endearing.
This story is fairly simple, without any major drama. I enjoyed this one, and I honestly hope the series continues because I’ve come to enjoy Wally and Dakota and their gay and not-so-gay ranch-hands with all their life dramas.
Andrew McFerrin did a great job with the vocalizations, providing a different tone for each character. Some of the voices were exactly what I would picture for the character, others were a surprise. I would recommend this story in this audiobook format since it’s fairly short and easy listening.
3.5 stars
April 6, 2015
Another brilliantly written story of the Range Series by Andrew Grey. The Story line in this series continues to grow as the lives of the people on the merged ranches of Dakota/Wally and Haven/Phillip intertwine with those on their ranches and the outside world. The continuity between these stories is amazing as you find yourself a part of them. They are in the middle of a very harsh winter in the midst of a blizzard. Brian has been fired from another ranch because he was gay and the ranch hands had set him up as a thief to get rid of him. With hardly any money and very little gas he finds himself in the middle of this storm unable to see anything other than white! Ending up in a ditch, almost freezing to death, David, Haven, and Wally find him, getting him out of the car and to Haven's Ranch home. Brian finds out that this ranch was different than most, a gay friendly ranch where they are all accepted. David, who has had a very recent rocky past, realizes that he and Brian went to the same High School and knew each other. David was the School Football Captain and Brian was a quiet, gay man who had secretly had a crush on David. Haven/Dakota gives Brian a job and a place to live. During the storm the two find themselves having to go out to look for cattle that had gotten out. David sprains his ankle and Brian brings his skills in to provide warmth and shelter until someone could find them. That's when the two connect!!! The Sex gets Hot and their lives come together in a beautiful mesh, until rumors get around about Brian supposed stealing. The people on the ranch hear the rumors and check them out, but David only hears them and doubts Brian causing a distrust which causes Brian to think about running. This is a beautiful story of two people who fall in love and are strong enough to get through the struggles that life can bring. Andrew has done a great job with the character development especially of the new man who comes to them. There is such a personal touch that draws you into their lives. I highly recommend this book and this series! Love Andrew's work!!
May 24, 2016
It All Comes Down to Family
Through this extraordinary series of gripping stories set on the Wyoming range Andrew Grey has continually drawn us into a web of intrigue, lust, love, and adventure that is held together and nurtured by a concept of family he brings to most of his series: That men in love with each other who can develop friendships and trusts with similar couples in a geographical setting become the foundations for very strong families.
In this one he reunites us with the family builders, Dakota and Wally and Haven and Phillip, as they come to grips with the former high school mates accidentally reunited in a howling snowstorm--Brian and David, two early-30s guys whose lives, loves and unrequited teenage lust for each other clash, crash and almost burn in front of a whole set of ranch hands and even the small town they live near.
It's beautifully written (and hot) as always and what Grey has done here is recap what has gone before in the other six books by summarizing for Brian through the words of others how this family came together and grew. This includes the fact that David was once part of it (in another book), screwed up and came back under extreme duress as sort of a prodigal son, if not lover, to Mario, whose story was chronicled in Book 6, "A Volatile Range." How Grey does this makes the reader flow through the first couple of chapters and then he grabs you with the plot and interweaving characters and will not let you go.
I read this book in virtually one sitting--and I never planned that but I could not get away, which is typical of this series. Grey even introduces a couple of characters here and there that tantalize readers into thinking there could be a Book 8 coming along (please, please). But even if he doesn't do that, like his "Love is ..." series which takes place on farms in Michigan, this series sets a standard for how to start, grow and hold families together. Grab it now!
Through this extraordinary series of gripping stories set on the Wyoming range Andrew Grey has continually drawn us into a web of intrigue, lust, love, and adventure that is held together and nurtured by a concept of family he brings to most of his series: That men in love with each other who can develop friendships and trusts with similar couples in a geographical setting become the foundations for very strong families.
In this one he reunites us with the family builders, Dakota and Wally and Haven and Phillip, as they come to grips with the former high school mates accidentally reunited in a howling snowstorm--Brian and David, two early-30s guys whose lives, loves and unrequited teenage lust for each other clash, crash and almost burn in front of a whole set of ranch hands and even the small town they live near.
It's beautifully written (and hot) as always and what Grey has done here is recap what has gone before in the other six books by summarizing for Brian through the words of others how this family came together and grew. This includes the fact that David was once part of it (in another book), screwed up and came back under extreme duress as sort of a prodigal son, if not lover, to Mario, whose story was chronicled in Book 6, "A Volatile Range." How Grey does this makes the reader flow through the first couple of chapters and then he grabs you with the plot and interweaving characters and will not let you go.
I read this book in virtually one sitting--and I never planned that but I could not get away, which is typical of this series. Grey even introduces a couple of characters here and there that tantalize readers into thinking there could be a Book 8 coming along (please, please). But even if he doesn't do that, like his "Love is ..." series which takes place on farms in Michigan, this series sets a standard for how to start, grow and hold families together. Grab it now!
November 10, 2014
4 star review by Dan
Another successful chapter in the Stories from the Range series.
A Chaotic Range starts out with a blizzard, and a man named Brian who has given up hope. He is almost out of gas and out of money. Brian has just been fired from his last job as a cowboy on the Flying C ranch, where he worked for three years, because the other cowboys found out he was gay. When he slides off the road into a ditch it seems his time is up. Although he puts on every bit of clothes he has, the cold is quickly killing him.
Luckily David has noticed a spot of red in a snowbank by the road in front of the ranch during a break in the storm. With the help of others, they find Brian in time to save him. Thus begins the story of David and Brian. Along the way they are trapped again in the snow after David is injured. They also face prejudice and rumor in town after the men from the Flying C spread vicious rumors about why Brian was let go.
Can they work past the part of Brian’s story that he isn’t sharing? Can they work past the unresolved tension between David and his ex Mario, the foreman of the ranch? And finally can they work past the uncertainty both feel about their relationship?
I really liked this book, as I have the entire series. I recommend Andrew’s books highly. Honestly, I’ve never read one of his that I didn’t enjoy. Do yourself a favor and pick up one today. With this particular series, you would be better served to start on book one and work your way through the series. While you could read this book as a standalone, it would lose something if you didn’t know the background on all the characters that flow through the story.
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, author interviews, guestposts and giveaways!
Another successful chapter in the Stories from the Range series.
A Chaotic Range starts out with a blizzard, and a man named Brian who has given up hope. He is almost out of gas and out of money. Brian has just been fired from his last job as a cowboy on the Flying C ranch, where he worked for three years, because the other cowboys found out he was gay. When he slides off the road into a ditch it seems his time is up. Although he puts on every bit of clothes he has, the cold is quickly killing him.
Luckily David has noticed a spot of red in a snowbank by the road in front of the ranch during a break in the storm. With the help of others, they find Brian in time to save him. Thus begins the story of David and Brian. Along the way they are trapped again in the snow after David is injured. They also face prejudice and rumor in town after the men from the Flying C spread vicious rumors about why Brian was let go.
Can they work past the part of Brian’s story that he isn’t sharing? Can they work past the unresolved tension between David and his ex Mario, the foreman of the ranch? And finally can they work past the uncertainty both feel about their relationship?
I really liked this book, as I have the entire series. I recommend Andrew’s books highly. Honestly, I’ve never read one of his that I didn’t enjoy. Do yourself a favor and pick up one today. With this particular series, you would be better served to start on book one and work your way through the series. While you could read this book as a standalone, it would lose something if you didn’t know the background on all the characters that flow through the story.
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, author interviews, guestposts and giveaways!
January 11, 2015
This one is about Brian, a cowboy that is down on his luck. And David a ranch hand that has had his own bad luck in life and in love. Brian finds himself jobless, penniless and driving through a bad snow storm, destination unknown. As Brian makes a turn to what he hopes will take him to someplace safe, he overcompensates a bad turn and ends up in a snow bank. Stuck he has no choice but to hunker down and hope he is found before the worse happens. David and some of the ranch crew happen to come by and spot the car, coming to the rescue just in time. Bringing Brian back to the ranch, David and he quickly realize they knew each other in high school. And start a friendship based on that knowledge. After a few days all the workers get into easy work/friendship camaraderie. Brain and David start to develop a deeper friendship, starting a sexual relationship until David finds out what he feels is the real reason for Brian being fired from his last Ranch.
This was my first Range series but I had heard that you didn't need to read the previous ones and I found that to be mostly true. The only time I got confused is when they brought in Mario, David’s old love interest. I didn't get that Mario was the foreman and when the David/ Mario thing happened that it was just David that left. Not until we got the back story, later in the story, was it explained better. I also found that Brian was pretty forgiving, almost too forgiving. I would have expected more confrontation between Brian, David and couple of characters. But over all a great read and I will be going back and reading the rest of the series.
I was given this book for an honest review by Crystals many review
This was my first Range series but I had heard that you didn't need to read the previous ones and I found that to be mostly true. The only time I got confused is when they brought in Mario, David’s old love interest. I didn't get that Mario was the foreman and when the David/ Mario thing happened that it was just David that left. Not until we got the back story, later in the story, was it explained better. I also found that Brian was pretty forgiving, almost too forgiving. I would have expected more confrontation between Brian, David and couple of characters. But over all a great read and I will be going back and reading the rest of the series.
I was given this book for an honest review by Crystals many review
November 7, 2014
From the very beginning of this book I was sucked in and held hostage by Andrew Grey’s writing and the vivid feel of the characters. I have to admit, I really didn’t like David after the previous book. I wasn’t looking forward to this one as much because I hate cheaters, BUT – yes, there’s a very good reason for the all caps, I promise – David is so much more than I thought. Such a wonderful character that made bad choices, but then don’t we all fail others and ourselves at times? I loved seeing David develop into such a rich character. I rooted for him almost from the beginning and found that many assumptions I’d made (some his ex on the ranch had made as well) were not quite true.
Enter Brian, and what a terrifying entry it is (see the excerpt below to see what I mean), the ranch hand running from another ranch where lies and homophobia cost him everything, almost including his life. But when these two men come together, much more than their hearts are healed. David’s past is dealt with as is Brian’s and seeing the rest of the ranch crew was wonderful!
A Chaotic Range is a must read! I love this series, but honestly, this has to be one of my very favourites, not just of the series, but of the western m/m romances I’ve read. Period. If you love hot men, characters that grow and bloom, abominable snowmen, and love, then this is the book for you.
Thank you Andrew Grey for the chance to read along with your wonderful characters!
Enter Brian, and what a terrifying entry it is (see the excerpt below to see what I mean), the ranch hand running from another ranch where lies and homophobia cost him everything, almost including his life. But when these two men come together, much more than their hearts are healed. David’s past is dealt with as is Brian’s and seeing the rest of the ranch crew was wonderful!
A Chaotic Range is a must read! I love this series, but honestly, this has to be one of my very favourites, not just of the series, but of the western m/m romances I’ve read. Period. If you love hot men, characters that grow and bloom, abominable snowmen, and love, then this is the book for you.
Thank you Andrew Grey for the chance to read along with your wonderful characters!
April 27, 2015
Chaotic Range - Andrew Grey
M/M Western
This has some gay hate hints
4 stars
I was given this book for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.
I loved this story. It was one where the community within the story was one of acceptance and respect. I really enjoyed how David and Brian were able to feel their way through the situation they found themselves in.
David and Brian saved each other in more ways than one. When Brian found himself at death's door, David and his friends were able to come to his rescue. Then, conversely, Brian was able to save David when he was injured in a snow storm.
While I wanted to pound the men that Brian worked with into the snow banks, I did appreciate that his "dismissal" was addressed and not just left hanging. It helped to create a stronger sense of community.
Also, I really enjoyed how the workers/friends of David were able to say it how it is. There was not sugar coating or hand holding. When he needed a kick, they gave it to him.
The love that these two share was not only genuine, but one where trials and tribulations were overcome together. I enjoyed this story.
M/M Western
This has some gay hate hints
4 stars
I was given this book for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.
I loved this story. It was one where the community within the story was one of acceptance and respect. I really enjoyed how David and Brian were able to feel their way through the situation they found themselves in.
David and Brian saved each other in more ways than one. When Brian found himself at death's door, David and his friends were able to come to his rescue. Then, conversely, Brian was able to save David when he was injured in a snow storm.
While I wanted to pound the men that Brian worked with into the snow banks, I did appreciate that his "dismissal" was addressed and not just left hanging. It helped to create a stronger sense of community.
Also, I really enjoyed how the workers/friends of David were able to say it how it is. There was not sugar coating or hand holding. When he needed a kick, they gave it to him.
The love that these two share was not only genuine, but one where trials and tribulations were overcome together. I enjoyed this story.
January 24, 2015
I was so excited to see another book in the Range series, I love all the characters in it. This book doesnt disappoint. Brian is from a neighboring ranch and is fired in the middle of a snowstorm. He makes his way out of town on an empty tank and ends up stuck in a snowbank. Luckily he's close to Haven's farm, they find him when he's close to freezing to death. Brian recognizes David immediately, they went to school together and Brian had a crush on him long ago. They spend more time together and find they have alot in common. When they're both stuck in the snow after trying to round up some strays they realize they both are attracted to each other. They both have some things to work through before it can all be a HEA, but thankfully it all turns out perfectly. I really liked both main characters, and I love how AG always brings in the characters from past books. Really a good read.
April 26, 2015
Chaotic Range by Andrew Grey.
M/M cowboys
5 stars
I was given this in return for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.
Chaotic Range is part of the Range series by Andrew Grey. I love these books. They are always about someone troubled who comes to the ranch and finds a home there.
It was written with warmth and love. You could only feel sorry for Brian, he finds himself lost with nothing to look forward to, then he meets David. Their relationship that develops is like so many in the series, but still has a way of making it into your heart. All the characters from the other books are back and add so much to the storyline.
If your looking for a book that will give you warm and fuzzy feelings try this series.
M/M cowboys
5 stars
I was given this in return for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.
Chaotic Range is part of the Range series by Andrew Grey. I love these books. They are always about someone troubled who comes to the ranch and finds a home there.
It was written with warmth and love. You could only feel sorry for Brian, he finds himself lost with nothing to look forward to, then he meets David. Their relationship that develops is like so many in the series, but still has a way of making it into your heart. All the characters from the other books are back and add so much to the storyline.
If your looking for a book that will give you warm and fuzzy feelings try this series.
November 9, 2014
This is truly one of the best installments to the entire Range series and a must read. There are lots of ups and downs with no easy path to love.
Brian is out driving in the middle of a snowstorm after being fired from his last ranch. He ends up getting found by David, Phillip, and Hayden but doesn't hold much hope for the future. Brian remembers David from high school although they ran in different circles. Side by side they work and slowly grow closer. David has his own set of problems and lets old doubts and unsettled issues creep in. Both Brian and David have to work together for any hope of a future together.
Brian is out driving in the middle of a snowstorm after being fired from his last ranch. He ends up getting found by David, Phillip, and Hayden but doesn't hold much hope for the future. Brian remembers David from high school although they ran in different circles. Side by side they work and slowly grow closer. David has his own set of problems and lets old doubts and unsettled issues creep in. Both Brian and David have to work together for any hope of a future together.
August 14, 2021
In "Chaotic Range", David finally gets his love story. He's shown up in previous books as the partner of ranch foreman, Mario. That relationship didn't work out, but in this book, David connects with Brian when he spots Brian in his disabled vehicle and near death, stuck in a snow bank during a blizzard. They knew each other in high school, but weren't friends at the time. Brian is jobless, having been run out of his previous ranch when it became known that he was gay. As David and Brian draw closer to each other, they experience other hazards and each has to confront his past mistakes.
I was really sorry to see this series end, as it's been very special to read. Andrew Grey created appealing characters living in a ranch full of acceptance, lifelong friendships, family, perseverance, mutual respect, healing, and love. It's realistic, not all rosy, yet optimistic. Characters evolved and showed up in subsequent books in the series, spanning some years. "Chaotic Range" was a perfect conclusion to a lovely series that will stay with me for a long time.
I was really sorry to see this series end, as it's been very special to read. Andrew Grey created appealing characters living in a ranch full of acceptance, lifelong friendships, family, perseverance, mutual respect, healing, and love. It's realistic, not all rosy, yet optimistic. Characters evolved and showed up in subsequent books in the series, spanning some years. "Chaotic Range" was a perfect conclusion to a lovely series that will stay with me for a long time.
September 27, 2017
Another great book in the Range series! David finally gets his happy after ever, after watching him flounder in at least two of the previous books as a secondary character it was nice to see him finally find love on his own. While he messes up, he also has some hard truths thrown at him and is able to make amends fairly quickly.
Brian on the other hand has it rough, being fired from his job in the middle of winter is never easy for a cowboy, and then getting lost an stranded during a snowstorm makes matter's worse. When he runs into David, he expect the boy that he used to be rather than the jaded man David has become now.
I truly loved his series and can't wait to see any more stories come from this world.
Brian on the other hand has it rough, being fired from his job in the middle of winter is never easy for a cowboy, and then getting lost an stranded during a snowstorm makes matter's worse. When he runs into David, he expect the boy that he used to be rather than the jaded man David has become now.
I truly loved his series and can't wait to see any more stories come from this world.
May 30, 2020
I've read several of the books in this series a while ago, so I remember the overall setting and characters. This story, while mostly unobjectionable, was bogged down by the insta-love the characters felt. Yes, they knew each other in the past but there was no past relationship upon which to build. Mostly a good story to check in on the rest of the characters in the series and how they are doing.
November 5, 2019
** 3.5 Stars **
August 1, 2023
3.5
Another in the Range series. It's OK but not the best. After a while they begin to follow the same formula but with less interesting detail about ranch life.
Another in the Range series. It's OK but not the best. After a while they begin to follow the same formula but with less interesting detail about ranch life.
February 10, 2015
There is a reason why Andrew Grey is one of my favorite authors, and I'll tell you why. He's the master of writing character driven pieces that take you by the collar and demand that you care. I've read several of his books, from a variety of series, and I can honestly admit that I keep coming back for the fascinating and engaging characters he writes. The icing on the cake? His plots rock like nobody’s business. Seriously. A Chaotic Range, the seventh installment in the Stories From The Range series is no exception. Before I get into specifics, allow me to mention that I have not read the other books in the series, and I was able to follow along just fine. However, I suspect that I'm missing the full depth of the SFTR world, so I'll be working through the backlist to catch up.
Brian is more than down on his luck - he's literally on his way to freezing to death after being fired from his last position. Luckily when he's rescued, it's by guys who own a ranch where they don't care if you like “broncos instead of phillies”, as long as you work hard and can do the job. He also sees David, the jock he'd crushed on in high school, looking a lot less shiny than Jed remembered.
Brian quickly squashes any trip down memory lane, because he's sworn off of men, deciding that he's done with being used. David, on the other hand, is still on the outside looking in with his ranch family, having left a lover (and the ranch) behind to chase a guy that in the end broke his heart. Watching the two men reconnect and build a relationship was painful at times, simply because Brian didn't come clean about his former employers up front. I felt that he was his own worst enemy at times. Sure he'd been through something awful – no one likes having their integrity questioned –but he seemed convinced that people would automatically believe the worst in him. I felt like I was right there with Brian, watching him as he worked through his fears and insecurities. His personal struggle showed such an incredible inner strength that I think even he was surprised by.
A Chaotic Range by Andrew Grey is an emotionally charged piece that will put you through the ringer, but make you glad that you were along for the ride.
Five Shooting Stars
Brian is more than down on his luck - he's literally on his way to freezing to death after being fired from his last position. Luckily when he's rescued, it's by guys who own a ranch where they don't care if you like “broncos instead of phillies”, as long as you work hard and can do the job. He also sees David, the jock he'd crushed on in high school, looking a lot less shiny than Jed remembered.
Brian quickly squashes any trip down memory lane, because he's sworn off of men, deciding that he's done with being used. David, on the other hand, is still on the outside looking in with his ranch family, having left a lover (and the ranch) behind to chase a guy that in the end broke his heart. Watching the two men reconnect and build a relationship was painful at times, simply because Brian didn't come clean about his former employers up front. I felt that he was his own worst enemy at times. Sure he'd been through something awful – no one likes having their integrity questioned –but he seemed convinced that people would automatically believe the worst in him. I felt like I was right there with Brian, watching him as he worked through his fears and insecurities. His personal struggle showed such an incredible inner strength that I think even he was surprised by.
A Chaotic Range by Andrew Grey is an emotionally charged piece that will put you through the ringer, but make you glad that you were along for the ride.
Five Shooting Stars
May 12, 2015
If you have read the other books in the series, this one follows the same pattern. Loner-outcast arrives in a near believable part of Wyoming. In some manner - (trapped in a snow storm and rescued in this book) he arrives on a ranching operation owned by several gay characters whose stories are told in prior books. Character development within a specific book is adequate for the story line. But it suffers from book to book to the level of the author assigning different last names (David's last name is different in this book than in a prior book and it is kind of a challenge to totally match personality between the books).
The books can be read individually because the necessary information needed from the prior books is included. But as with any series reading all of the books in order can give some expanded information to understand the current book. I have read all seven in order.
The books have conflict, love, anger, and an interesting but not complex plot line with enough hot sex that you will not be disappointed.
The books are average to above average romance novels - gay or straight.
The books can be read individually because the necessary information needed from the prior books is included. But as with any series reading all of the books in order can give some expanded information to understand the current book. I have read all seven in order.
The books have conflict, love, anger, and an interesting but not complex plot line with enough hot sex that you will not be disappointed.
The books are average to above average romance novels - gay or straight.
July 18, 2015
I loved this book and as I spent the summer rereading Andrews stories of the range series. I loved seeing Andrews previous characters in this book Haven Phillip Dakota Wally and all the boys Andrew knows how to allow his readers to feel the connection between the two MCs Brian and David were perfect together I hope for more cowboys I took my time reading this book as I didn't want it to end and with Casper WY freezing right now I was hoping the Dakota family didn't lose any cattle and that David and Brian were safe inside. Thats how great a story this was I was truly worried about these characters not freezing to death. Al Roker was trying for a new Guiness Book of world records and I told my husband about Brian and David he rolled his eyes and asked about family friends who have 30,000 head of cattle in Bozman MT.
January 6, 2017
this was a wonderful book as all of them have been. its sad that the series is at an end but I hope to read more of Andrew's books in the future.
the characters in this series have become like family and to see them get all they deserved and then some was wonderful.
I was glad that after all the love loss that David finally found a reason to stop running in Brian. I do believe they saved each other
the characters in this series have become like family and to see them get all they deserved and then some was wonderful.
I was glad that after all the love loss that David finally found a reason to stop running in Brian. I do believe they saved each other
November 9, 2014
Andrew Grey delivers another great story about redemption and finding love ...
When Brain lost hope ... He found in the range the thing he wanted and needed the most ... He found love.
David needed redemption ... He needed to change... He needed to accept the past was no longer important.
Brain and David found that happiness is something you can have with the right person ...
When Brain lost hope ... He found in the range the thing he wanted and needed the most ... He found love.
David needed redemption ... He needed to change... He needed to accept the past was no longer important.
Brain and David found that happiness is something you can have with the right person ...
March 22, 2015
Good book
This is the first book that I've read from the series . The two main characters Brian and David were well written and I liked both characters . However I'm not sure if I liked this book enough to go back and read any of the other books in the series. I don't think there's anything wrong with this book it just didn't grab me the way some books can.
This is the first book that I've read from the series . The two main characters Brian and David were well written and I liked both characters . However I'm not sure if I liked this book enough to go back and read any of the other books in the series. I don't think there's anything wrong with this book it just didn't grab me the way some books can.
June 12, 2015
3.5/5
This was a fun, sweet and fluff read. Brian was a likable character. David, on the other hand is quite questionable. The dude's persona need more work. XD The little drama that the books has are minor but they raised some big issue. Nothing too intense nor heavy tho. All in all, it was fun and light.
This was a fun, sweet and fluff read. Brian was a likable character. David, on the other hand is quite questionable. The dude's persona need more work. XD The little drama that the books has are minor but they raised some big issue. Nothing too intense nor heavy tho. All in all, it was fun and light.
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