What do you think?
Where the Snakes Sleep
Ryan Smith inherited a house from a grandfather he barely knew, in a country he’s never been to. Once he sets foot into the rural village in the South of France, he discovers his grandfather’s name carries a dark scandal that drove the old man to America decades ago.
No one except the frankly gorgeous man who lives on the neighboring estate is willing to explain his grandfather’s ruin, but even then, Ryan knows there’s something more that he’s hiding from him.
Camille Moreau is a reclusive venomologist with a beautiful mouth, a patient stare, and a grief he wears like armor. And he knows exactly what Ryan’s grandfather helped conceal. Decades ago, Ryan’s grandfather was involved with a notorious man whose crimes left bodies, secrets, and silence in his wake.
One of those bodies belonged to Camille’s mother.
Now the old man is dead, his house belongs to Ryan, and Camille believes something hidden on the property may finally expose the truth. Unfortunately, he is not the only one looking for it.
Ryan came to France looking for answers about a grandfather he never loved. What he finds is a legacy of blood, a man with every reason to hate him, and a dangerous kind of devotion that might be worse than the threat hunting him.
Where the Snakes Sleep is a dark MM gothic romance featuring an American trans man, a reclusive French venomologist, an inheritance mystery, obsessive protection, deadly snakes, and love with a venomous bite.
No one except the frankly gorgeous man who lives on the neighboring estate is willing to explain his grandfather’s ruin, but even then, Ryan knows there’s something more that he’s hiding from him.
Camille Moreau is a reclusive venomologist with a beautiful mouth, a patient stare, and a grief he wears like armor. And he knows exactly what Ryan’s grandfather helped conceal. Decades ago, Ryan’s grandfather was involved with a notorious man whose crimes left bodies, secrets, and silence in his wake.
One of those bodies belonged to Camille’s mother.
Now the old man is dead, his house belongs to Ryan, and Camille believes something hidden on the property may finally expose the truth. Unfortunately, he is not the only one looking for it.
Ryan came to France looking for answers about a grandfather he never loved. What he finds is a legacy of blood, a man with every reason to hate him, and a dangerous kind of devotion that might be worse than the threat hunting him.
Where the Snakes Sleep is a dark MM gothic romance featuring an American trans man, a reclusive French venomologist, an inheritance mystery, obsessive protection, deadly snakes, and love with a venomous bite.
- GenresM M Romance
484 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 19, 2026
About the author
E. Baileu
13 books175 followersHi!
I’m a new author in the MM romance space. I primarily write dark romance, but like wholesome dark romance? You won’t find any verbal abuse or bullying in my books. I understand some people like that, but some people (me) prefer our morally grey men to dote on us.
My education background is in Criminology and Psychology, but I’ve always had a love for literature. I grew up writing short stories and poetry. As I got older, my creativity seemed to fade away and I became stuck in a monotonous routine. In December 2024, I suddenly decided to write Under Your Care. It felt like I had finally found what I was supposed to be doing with my life. I am so excited to share even more romantic, depraved, and kinky stories with everyone!!
Thank you,
E. (Elizabeth) Baileu
I’m a new author in the MM romance space. I primarily write dark romance, but like wholesome dark romance? You won’t find any verbal abuse or bullying in my books. I understand some people like that, but some people (me) prefer our morally grey men to dote on us.
My education background is in Criminology and Psychology, but I’ve always had a love for literature. I grew up writing short stories and poetry. As I got older, my creativity seemed to fade away and I became stuck in a monotonous routine. In December 2024, I suddenly decided to write Under Your Care. It felt like I had finally found what I was supposed to be doing with my life. I am so excited to share even more romantic, depraved, and kinky stories with everyone!!
Thank you,
E. (Elizabeth) Baileu
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
I trust E. Baileu to deliver a fantastic book, even if it isn’t always my cup of tea. There’s something very addicting about the way they write, the romances they tell, and the stories that unfold, and this one is absolutely no exception.
I adored There’s Something in the Water (my beloved), and it’s probably my favorite book I’ve read in 2026, and this book is definitely close behind it! This is a standalone, but it felt very similar to the first book in this series, just from the setting alone.
This is a quiet, self contained story that takes place primarily in one setting (two if you squint), and has us following our two main characters with each other. The side characters are few and far between, and yet, this story is so rich and full. I never felt bored, despite the book being so contained and having just two main characters in it almost the entire time. The writing, the incredible two main characters, and the mystery plot kept me engaged the entire time.
I absolutely adored both characters, and how their relationship ended up unfolding. It’s the perfect example of two imperfect people being perfect for one another and still having to work on themselves and issues within the relationship. I love realistic relationships in romance books, and relationships that feel like I’m looking in on them like a fly on the wall. And the banter that Camille and Ryan have, their frustrations with one another, their adoration and admiration for one another all feel so real, and it all works so well.
I especially love Ryan as the main character. This is a dual POV book, but Ryan has more chapters, so I was endeared more toward him. He is distrustful and stubborn, but it’s never too much. He’s not pigheaded, he doesn’t make poor choices for the sake of being stubborn, there’s reasoning behind it, and I loved his independent streak and the way that he stood up for himself. He’s also a surprisingly empathetic person for what his life became, and I loved that he still had hope, and that quality to him despite everything that life threw at him. He was such a real, well-rounded character, and one of my favorite characters that this author has made.
My favorite part about the story is just the overall theme of autonomy and making choices and second chances and what you do with them. What your choices do not only to yourself, but to other people and how you can redeem yourself, if redemption is even available. There were so many different conversations happening about these topics at the same time this book, and it never felt clunky. It never felt like the author was hitting us over the head with them, and I thought everything was very well executed. I loved seeing everything come together in the end, not just the overall mystery of the book, but these topics that the author is tackling, I thought were very well resolved in the end.
The mystery was well done, and it did hold my attention, even if mysteries aren’t exactly my thing. I definitely came here for the romance and the snakes, and while I feel like the book could’ve had more to do with the snakes, it’s still delivered on the romance! I do think the banter between the characters did cut some of the tension in the more dramatic scenes toward the end of the book, but that’s also just my opinion. If something is going to be dramatic, I like it to be fairly dramatic with no humor braided into it. So that’s just more of a personal preference, but I was still extremely intrigued by where the author was going by the end of the book with the mystery and the combination of everything that we had read up until that point. It didn’t feel like a letdown, and again, everything wrapped up really neatly.
Also: I’m from Pennsylvania, so the inclusion of Ryan being in Pennsylvania and passing a Sheetz gas station, added like 5000 points to this book for me 🤭
Anyway, I’m absolutely over the moon to have received this ARC because of how much I loved the first book in the series, and I’m so tickled that I love this book just as much! It’s safe to say, that if E. Baileu writes 50 more books in this series, which I hope they do, I will read each and every one and gobble it up for breakfast, lunch, and dinner 🫡🙂↕️
I adored There’s Something in the Water (my beloved), and it’s probably my favorite book I’ve read in 2026, and this book is definitely close behind it! This is a standalone, but it felt very similar to the first book in this series, just from the setting alone.
This is a quiet, self contained story that takes place primarily in one setting (two if you squint), and has us following our two main characters with each other. The side characters are few and far between, and yet, this story is so rich and full. I never felt bored, despite the book being so contained and having just two main characters in it almost the entire time. The writing, the incredible two main characters, and the mystery plot kept me engaged the entire time.
I absolutely adored both characters, and how their relationship ended up unfolding. It’s the perfect example of two imperfect people being perfect for one another and still having to work on themselves and issues within the relationship. I love realistic relationships in romance books, and relationships that feel like I’m looking in on them like a fly on the wall. And the banter that Camille and Ryan have, their frustrations with one another, their adoration and admiration for one another all feel so real, and it all works so well.
I especially love Ryan as the main character. This is a dual POV book, but Ryan has more chapters, so I was endeared more toward him. He is distrustful and stubborn, but it’s never too much. He’s not pigheaded, he doesn’t make poor choices for the sake of being stubborn, there’s reasoning behind it, and I loved his independent streak and the way that he stood up for himself. He’s also a surprisingly empathetic person for what his life became, and I loved that he still had hope, and that quality to him despite everything that life threw at him. He was such a real, well-rounded character, and one of my favorite characters that this author has made.
My favorite part about the story is just the overall theme of autonomy and making choices and second chances and what you do with them. What your choices do not only to yourself, but to other people and how you can redeem yourself, if redemption is even available. There were so many different conversations happening about these topics at the same time this book, and it never felt clunky. It never felt like the author was hitting us over the head with them, and I thought everything was very well executed. I loved seeing everything come together in the end, not just the overall mystery of the book, but these topics that the author is tackling, I thought were very well resolved in the end.
The mystery was well done, and it did hold my attention, even if mysteries aren’t exactly my thing. I definitely came here for the romance and the snakes, and while I feel like the book could’ve had more to do with the snakes, it’s still delivered on the romance! I do think the banter between the characters did cut some of the tension in the more dramatic scenes toward the end of the book, but that’s also just my opinion. If something is going to be dramatic, I like it to be fairly dramatic with no humor braided into it. So that’s just more of a personal preference, but I was still extremely intrigued by where the author was going by the end of the book with the mystery and the combination of everything that we had read up until that point. It didn’t feel like a letdown, and again, everything wrapped up really neatly.
Also: I’m from Pennsylvania, so the inclusion of Ryan being in Pennsylvania and passing a Sheetz gas station, added like 5000 points to this book for me 🤭
Anyway, I’m absolutely over the moon to have received this ARC because of how much I loved the first book in the series, and I’m so tickled that I love this book just as much! It’s safe to say, that if E. Baileu writes 50 more books in this series, which I hope they do, I will read each and every one and gobble it up for breakfast, lunch, and dinner 🫡🙂↕️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
(ARC)
This book was freaking amazing. My biggest issue with book one in this series was the pacing, where i found the first bit of the book a bit slow and the second bit way too fast, but this book didn't have that problem at all. i thought this book was paced amazingly and when you add the great setting, the interesting and captivating plot and storyline, and really fleshed-out and enjoyable characters, you get an amazing book. I instantly fell in love with both Ryan and Camille and was truly interested to see how their story went. I thought their backgrounds and past made for their characters and the way they behaved and i found their love story really believable as well. I also like the fact that the snake motif blended together with the story as well as it not being heavy-handed with the fun facts to the point where it felt like i was reading a wikipedia article. I adored this book and i hope this series continues because i really like the theme and I think a lot of fun concepts can come out of it.
🌶️🌶️🌶️
(ARC)
This book was freaking amazing. My biggest issue with book one in this series was the pacing, where i found the first bit of the book a bit slow and the second bit way too fast, but this book didn't have that problem at all. i thought this book was paced amazingly and when you add the great setting, the interesting and captivating plot and storyline, and really fleshed-out and enjoyable characters, you get an amazing book. I instantly fell in love with both Ryan and Camille and was truly interested to see how their story went. I thought their backgrounds and past made for their characters and the way they behaved and i found their love story really believable as well. I also like the fact that the snake motif blended together with the story as well as it not being heavy-handed with the fun facts to the point where it felt like i was reading a wikipedia article. I adored this book and i hope this series continues because i really like the theme and I think a lot of fun concepts can come out of it.
September 19, 2026
I think this is my favorite E Baileu book!
To the surprise of no fans of Baileu's work, this one starts out really dark. But honestly, after that I also thought it had the most romance and yearning between the couple that worked so very well for me. From the first page when they meet each other you can tell they're fighting their attraction to each other (for very different reasons)
I related to Ryan on a deep deep level. The way that he was determined to do everything himself even when he was out of his depth and offered help? Like that related so well to me. But, even though the intentions weren't pure, I loved that Camille saw this and pivoted and instead provided what Ryan needed on a different level. There's a lot of build up and then a large crash you can see coming from a mile away, but I also thought the grovel and the rebound was so well done and left me so so happy with their HEA.
To the surprise of no fans of Baileu's work, this one starts out really dark. But honestly, after that I also thought it had the most romance and yearning between the couple that worked so very well for me. From the first page when they meet each other you can tell they're fighting their attraction to each other (for very different reasons)
I related to Ryan on a deep deep level. The way that he was determined to do everything himself even when he was out of his depth and offered help? Like that related so well to me. But, even though the intentions weren't pure, I loved that Camille saw this and pivoted and instead provided what Ryan needed on a different level. There's a lot of build up and then a large crash you can see coming from a mile away, but I also thought the grovel and the rebound was so well done and left me so so happy with their HEA.
September 14, 2026
Spectacular, give me 14 more of em’ 🙂↔️
Suspense with a lil mystery and a lot of romance?! YES PLEASE. The chemistry between Ryan and Camille was radiant, as if they’ve known each other all their life and that only made the banter and not so subtle flirtation the cherry on top. Even the spice was chefs kiss. What truly made my heart soar was Ryan finding his happy ending despite the trauma he was working through. MY SWEET BOY IS SO DESERVING OF LOVE.
Camille fascinated me so much and made me swoon every single time. (I understand Ryan) I was so giddy every time I got to one of his chapters. *sigh* when can I have a French man who only has eyes for me?!
Suspense/Mystery
Dark Romance
Hurt Comfort
Age Gap
Trans MC
Obsessive
Protective
Touch Him and 💀
Suspense with a lil mystery and a lot of romance?! YES PLEASE. The chemistry between Ryan and Camille was radiant, as if they’ve known each other all their life and that only made the banter and not so subtle flirtation the cherry on top. Even the spice was chefs kiss. What truly made my heart soar was Ryan finding his happy ending despite the trauma he was working through. MY SWEET BOY IS SO DESERVING OF LOVE.
Camille fascinated me so much and made me swoon every single time. (I understand Ryan) I was so giddy every time I got to one of his chapters. *sigh* when can I have a French man who only has eyes for me?!
Suspense/Mystery
Dark Romance
Hurt Comfort
Age Gap
Trans MC
Obsessive
Protective
Touch Him and 💀
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book literally slithered into my brain in the best way because it wasn't quite what I had expected, even though I'd been eating up every detail E. Baileu shared on IG as teasers leading up to the ARC release. Baileu knows how to tell a unique, complex, and dark story with some of the hottest spice I've ever read in my life. It's a delicious combination.
There's Something in the Water was possibly my favorite read so far this year. I have gone back and re-read most of it, because certain phrasings and character reactions imprinted on me. The psychological aspects of --yes--predators and prey are explored so well in this series. As much as I adored Tobias and Cove, I sincerely love that Book 2's story goes to different places with Ryan and Camille and with entirely different tones and motivations.
Three things stand out as I reflect back on this book:
1) The core themes of taking back autonomy, making choices, and surviving things like abuse, trauma, and grief by standing up and taking action were handled so well. BE SURE TO RESPECT THE CWs for this book! There is on-page SA with an ex-partner that had me locked in place, not blinking, as Ryan made his escape. This ex was a true predator, manipulating and taking what he wanted, gaslighting and trying to keep Ryan in his snare over and over again... but when Ryan took a stand and it was so early in the book, I was SO attached to him and the kneejerk bravery it took to get away.
Later in the novel there's a passage where Ryan is mentally working through what's happened as he's reading the old, hidden journals. He draws very intuitive parallels regarding how angsty it can be to recognize abuse in all its forms, along with its impacts regarding what you believed about the person and yourself that I had to highlight the text:
Boom. That part hit me right in the gut. I've lived that realization myself, many moons ago when it took me a couple years to finally leave a psychologically abusive relationship. Baileu has an incredible talent for emotional depth and the complex inroads her characters must endure to come out at the end of the book where they need to be. Maybe that's why I am so hooked on their stories.
2) The central mystery felt so fresh and intriguing. I love that this story had a rich backstory and all sorts of details to peel away, like strips of ancient wallpaper. Each piece was unraveled slowly and with more meticulously-researched aspects layered in (in TSITW, it was deadly fish; here, it's snakes and venom) along with evocative prose that perfectly showed the settings and moods of each scene so well. Also, how fun to read all the French! I don't speak or read French, LOL. But thankfully, the translation was right there every time so nothing was missed. I also appreciated that the French locals weren't super charming and idyllic, as I kind of was picturing the impossibly-cozy country cottage from the movie "The Holiday" when I first envisioned the inherited cottage... which was not at all what any of it ended up being. No Hallmark-y, friendly locals adopting Ryan as their own. Nope, instead they were rude and trying to rip him off for home repairs. Heh. Honestly, I liked this. It felt more realistic and added a level to the story that fit the tone.
3) The romance. So this wasn't anything like Tobias and Cove's relationship, which I have to say was a relief because the heaviness of their captive/captor relationship is intense even after the book ends. Ryan is fully free throughout this story. He calls so many of the shots, even when Camille's initial motives for getting close are so shady and self-serving. Camille wants something in the walls of that cottage, and he angles to get close to Ryan and manipulate him into complacency so he can get what he wants. Yet... even in the times Camille seems to be doing just that, Ryan still has a feisty, 'give me what I want' streak pushing him to also take what HE wants. Their fast leap into primal intimacy proves it. While Camille intentionally flaunted the bait, the way Ryan not only took the bait but chomped down and devoured it whole was really hot.
Camille, too, transformed along the way. His inner development and atonement scenes were really awesome. Camille and Ryan get a fantastic HEA and it feels healthy. Whereas Tobias and Cove left me kind of haunted in their HEA, Camille and Ryan have a strong dynamic that I think will help them get through anything as a solid front. Am I overthinking this? Probably. But I'm telling you, that's what this series does to me. ;-)
...Wait, here's part 3B of what sticks with me:
The erotic scenes with fear and breath play were fan-f*cking-tastic. I didn't expect any of it, but the scene And so many other scenes were spicy as hell, rough and primal, but with a really lovely sensitivity and consent undertone clearly in place.
I genuinely love E. Baileu's style and all of her books have been incredible. They're my primary "I'll read anything they write" author in MMromance right now. Thank you, E., for trusting me with an ARC a second time. It's an honor.
There's Something in the Water was possibly my favorite read so far this year. I have gone back and re-read most of it, because certain phrasings and character reactions imprinted on me. The psychological aspects of --yes--predators and prey are explored so well in this series. As much as I adored Tobias and Cove, I sincerely love that Book 2's story goes to different places with Ryan and Camille and with entirely different tones and motivations.
Three things stand out as I reflect back on this book:
1) The core themes of taking back autonomy, making choices, and surviving things like abuse, trauma, and grief by standing up and taking action were handled so well. BE SURE TO RESPECT THE CWs for this book! There is on-page SA with an ex-partner that had me locked in place, not blinking, as Ryan made his escape. This ex was a true predator, manipulating and taking what he wanted, gaslighting and trying to keep Ryan in his snare over and over again... but when Ryan took a stand and it was so early in the book, I was SO attached to him and the kneejerk bravery it took to get away.
Later in the novel there's a passage where Ryan is mentally working through what's happened as he's reading the old, hidden journals. He draws very intuitive parallels regarding how angsty it can be to recognize abuse in all its forms, along with its impacts regarding what you believed about the person and yourself that I had to highlight the text:
I understand fear.
Fuck. I understand it so well that it makes me sick.
How many times did I stay with Paul because leaving seemed bigger and more dangerous than enduring one more day?
How many times did I tell myself something wasn't really abuse because admitting it was abuse would require me to do something about it?
How many times did I accept an apology because the alternative was recognizing that the man I loved was choosing to hurt me?
"...he is right often enough that I have learned to distrust my own indignation whenever it stands opposite his certainty."
That sentence.
God.
Boom. That part hit me right in the gut. I've lived that realization myself, many moons ago when it took me a couple years to finally leave a psychologically abusive relationship. Baileu has an incredible talent for emotional depth and the complex inroads her characters must endure to come out at the end of the book where they need to be. Maybe that's why I am so hooked on their stories.
2) The central mystery felt so fresh and intriguing. I love that this story had a rich backstory and all sorts of details to peel away, like strips of ancient wallpaper. Each piece was unraveled slowly and with more meticulously-researched aspects layered in (in TSITW, it was deadly fish; here, it's snakes and venom) along with evocative prose that perfectly showed the settings and moods of each scene so well. Also, how fun to read all the French! I don't speak or read French, LOL. But thankfully, the translation was right there every time so nothing was missed. I also appreciated that the French locals weren't super charming and idyllic, as I kind of was picturing the impossibly-cozy country cottage from the movie "The Holiday" when I first envisioned the inherited cottage... which was not at all what any of it ended up being. No Hallmark-y, friendly locals adopting Ryan as their own. Nope, instead they were rude and trying to rip him off for home repairs. Heh. Honestly, I liked this. It felt more realistic and added a level to the story that fit the tone.
3) The romance. So this wasn't anything like Tobias and Cove's relationship, which I have to say was a relief because the heaviness of their captive/captor relationship is intense even after the book ends. Ryan is fully free throughout this story. He calls so many of the shots, even when Camille's initial motives for getting close are so shady and self-serving. Camille wants something in the walls of that cottage, and he angles to get close to Ryan and manipulate him into complacency so he can get what he wants. Yet... even in the times Camille seems to be doing just that, Ryan still has a feisty, 'give me what I want' streak pushing him to also take what HE wants. Their fast leap into primal intimacy proves it. While Camille intentionally flaunted the bait, the way Ryan not only took the bait but chomped down and devoured it whole was really hot.
Camille, too, transformed along the way. His inner development and atonement scenes were really awesome. Camille and Ryan get a fantastic HEA and it feels healthy. Whereas Tobias and Cove left me kind of haunted in their HEA, Camille and Ryan have a strong dynamic that I think will help them get through anything as a solid front. Am I overthinking this? Probably. But I'm telling you, that's what this series does to me. ;-)
...Wait, here's part 3B of what sticks with me:
The erotic scenes with fear and breath play were fan-f*cking-tastic. I didn't expect any of it, but the scene And so many other scenes were spicy as hell, rough and primal, but with a really lovely sensitivity and consent undertone clearly in place.
I genuinely love E. Baileu's style and all of her books have been incredible. They're my primary "I'll read anything they write" author in MMromance right now. Thank you, E., for trusting me with an ARC a second time. It's an honor.
September 19, 2026
Disclosure: I received a complimentary eARC of
Where the Snakes Sleep
by E. Baileu in exchange for an honest review.
Where the Snakes Sleep by E. Baileu is a dark MM gothic romance released as the second book in the Predators & Prey series.
The story follows Ryan Smith, an American trans man who inherits a cottage in a rural French village from an estranged grandfather he barely knew. Upon arrival, Ryan discovers his grandfather Aleberto's name is tied to a dark scandal and a notorious man whose past crimes left bodies and silence in their wake—including the mother of Camille Moreau, a reclusive local venomologist. Camille approaches Ryan looking for answers hidden on the property, sparking a dangerous, high-tension collision of legacy, grief, and venomous attraction.
This is a profoundly contemplative story that goes far beyond a simple romance, exploring the sinister and painful implications of grief. E. Baileu weaves a gripping mystery that is less about a traditional whodunit and more about how the past echoes into the present. The parallels between Ryan’s grandfather and Ryan’s own painful past in America anchor the story in raw emotional truth, exploring the devastating belief that if they could just love hard enough, forgive enough, and stay long enough, they could get back the men they fell for before trust dissolved into lies and violence. Meanwhile, Camille’s childhood was stolen by the shadow of his mother Nadia's disappearance in the early 2000s, turning an eight-year-old waiting for letters into a seventeen-year-old gathering evidence for justice after his father's tragic suicide. His lifelong pursuit of justice for his parents infuses the narrative with a heartbreaking sense of sorrow and resilience.
Baileu’s writing captures the exquisite mental gymnastics and moral dilemmas the leads' endure. It is exceptional, treating every dialogue, banter, and moral dilemma with immense grace and weight. The dynamic between Camille’s controlled exterior and Ryan’s fear of losing control creates exquisite tension. When Ryan uncovers the truth behind Camille’s murky, manipulative motivations for approaching him, the resulting break in trust cuts deep—especially when paired with the agonizing fear of wondering whether someone's affection was real or manufactured. Yet, dialogue anchored by devastating lines like "That hand has opened doors for me, cooked for me, held me—let me bind it because I needed proof I could. People shouldn't be this complicated" carries staggering emotional weight. Paired with top-notch spice and a moody gothic atmosphere, every page drips with intensity.
Where the Snakes Sleep is an absolute triumph of gothic romance and character-driven storytelling. If you love complex trans protagonists, brooding hermits, dark inheritance mysteries, psychological depth, and romance with real emotional bite, this is an unmissable read.
Where the Snakes Sleep by E. Baileu is a dark MM gothic romance released as the second book in the Predators & Prey series.
The story follows Ryan Smith, an American trans man who inherits a cottage in a rural French village from an estranged grandfather he barely knew. Upon arrival, Ryan discovers his grandfather Aleberto's name is tied to a dark scandal and a notorious man whose past crimes left bodies and silence in their wake—including the mother of Camille Moreau, a reclusive local venomologist. Camille approaches Ryan looking for answers hidden on the property, sparking a dangerous, high-tension collision of legacy, grief, and venomous attraction.
This is a profoundly contemplative story that goes far beyond a simple romance, exploring the sinister and painful implications of grief. E. Baileu weaves a gripping mystery that is less about a traditional whodunit and more about how the past echoes into the present. The parallels between Ryan’s grandfather and Ryan’s own painful past in America anchor the story in raw emotional truth, exploring the devastating belief that if they could just love hard enough, forgive enough, and stay long enough, they could get back the men they fell for before trust dissolved into lies and violence. Meanwhile, Camille’s childhood was stolen by the shadow of his mother Nadia's disappearance in the early 2000s, turning an eight-year-old waiting for letters into a seventeen-year-old gathering evidence for justice after his father's tragic suicide. His lifelong pursuit of justice for his parents infuses the narrative with a heartbreaking sense of sorrow and resilience.
Baileu’s writing captures the exquisite mental gymnastics and moral dilemmas the leads' endure. It is exceptional, treating every dialogue, banter, and moral dilemma with immense grace and weight. The dynamic between Camille’s controlled exterior and Ryan’s fear of losing control creates exquisite tension. When Ryan uncovers the truth behind Camille’s murky, manipulative motivations for approaching him, the resulting break in trust cuts deep—especially when paired with the agonizing fear of wondering whether someone's affection was real or manufactured. Yet, dialogue anchored by devastating lines like "That hand has opened doors for me, cooked for me, held me—let me bind it because I needed proof I could. People shouldn't be this complicated" carries staggering emotional weight. Paired with top-notch spice and a moody gothic atmosphere, every page drips with intensity.
Where the Snakes Sleep is an absolute triumph of gothic romance and character-driven storytelling. If you love complex trans protagonists, brooding hermits, dark inheritance mysteries, psychological depth, and romance with real emotional bite, this is an unmissable read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
FEAR PLAY!!!! Definitely a kink that I don’t see a lot of that definitely played so well with the story between Ryan and Camille. Ryan’s story in the beginning really did make me pause because it was heavy without you knowing every little detail, until it all happened and when it did you could just relate to him on some level. Camille, the ling of secrets, I wouldn’t call him a monster, but he definitely did what needed to be done without thinking twice about how Ryan could actually affect him. This wasn’t a murder mystery, but it definitely had a mysterious vibe with the amount of questions that Camille needed answered. I also learned that I loved the intimacy of control between Ryan and Camille, at some point there was a power exchange of some sorts and I wouldn’t say for redemption… it was definitely something bigger
FEAR PLAY!!!! Definitely a kink that I don’t see a lot of that definitely played so well with the story between Ryan and Camille. Ryan’s story in the beginning really did make me pause because it was heavy without you knowing every little detail, until it all happened and when it did you could just relate to him on some level. Camille, the ling of secrets, I wouldn’t call him a monster, but he definitely did what needed to be done without thinking twice about how Ryan could actually affect him. This wasn’t a murder mystery, but it definitely had a mysterious vibe with the amount of questions that Camille needed answered. I also learned that I loved the intimacy of control between Ryan and Camille, at some point there was a power exchange of some sorts and I wouldn’t say for redemption… it was definitely something bigger
September 15, 2026
The feelings! Whether it’s pain and heartbreak for what Ryan was going through or love and longing as Camille realizes his feelings are no longer calculating, but inevitable. Ryan is jaded and stubborn and afraid of even the illusion of depending on someone else. I love how patient and calm Camille is. Even in their intimate moments, he is tentative and gives Ryan just what he needs. Their banter had me giggling so much. The murder mystery kept me up way past my bedtime with just one more chapter. I love this book!
September 19, 2026
Where the Snakes Sleep
I received an advance copy of this book and these are my honest thoughts.
This story was very good. I loved the little mystery that the characters were trying to parse out. The emphasis put on setting and maintaining healthy boundaries, and the importance of being self-reliant while also being ok with asking for and allowing help from others was very well executed.
I received an advance copy of this book and these are my honest thoughts.
This story was very good. I loved the little mystery that the characters were trying to parse out. The emphasis put on setting and maintaining healthy boundaries, and the importance of being self-reliant while also being ok with asking for and allowing help from others was very well executed.
Review of advance copy received from Author
As always, fantastic! I loved the suspense of this. It kept me reading and wanting to know what's going to happen next. Absolutely loved Ryan from the beginning. Everything he had went through just hurt my heart. And Camille, as Ryan described him, "creepy hot French fuck" 🤣 loved it! And the dynamic between these two.. hot!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This one isn’t as dark as a lot of E’s books, but still, mind your trigger warnings. Just cause it’s not someone literally falling in love with their kidnapper/captor doesn’t mean there aren’t any sketchy things either between characters or otherwise.
But I love Camille and Ryan. Ryan is a hoot of hyper independence and snark, and Camille is…well, Camille is a French academic with an antisocial streak a mile wide and literal tolerance for incompetence. Which is fair considering he works with some of the most venomous snakes in the world- incompetence can literally get you killed.
What begins as a relationship of convenience, with ulterior motives and careful orchestration on Camille’s part develops into a genuine affection that is decidedly more normal and sane than E’s books usually go for.
But when secrets come out and Camille’s manipulation and lies are revealed, Ryan doesn’t take it lightly, given his past history. Nor should he. And in different circumstances, I really think he would’ve walked away and never looked back. But circumstances forcing proximity and Camille realizing his feelings toward Ryan are far more than just a means to an end means both of them have to navigate how, and even if, to keep the relationship going.
All while trying to solve the mystery of the murder of Camille’s parents and what Ryan’s grandfather had to do with it.
It was a really good read, very spicy, and not as dark as much of E. Baileu’s offerings- no literal kidnappings, no actual captivity, no mindbreak HEAs, no one regularly murders someone on random Tuesday afternoons or runs a crime syndicate. We’re talking almost normal humans here, folks, not Daddies who should probably be in maximum security prisons (which I do love those, but I honestly wasn’t expecting this degree of fairly normal human behavior.).
And Ryan’s snark had me constantly snorting in laughter because I, too, speak sarcasm fluently and use it liberally. Ryan really felt like someone I would be friends with. Or even could potentially be. I really loved him as a character, and the way he exasperated the hell out of Camille had me laughing a lot.
Anyway, go read this one.
-MM romance
-Trans man MC
-BIPOC MC
-French academic x American who inherited a cottage in France from a grandfather he didn’t know existed
-Age gap (7 years)
-Forced proximity
-Manipulation
-So many snakes
-Murder mystery
-Family secrets
But I love Camille and Ryan. Ryan is a hoot of hyper independence and snark, and Camille is…well, Camille is a French academic with an antisocial streak a mile wide and literal tolerance for incompetence. Which is fair considering he works with some of the most venomous snakes in the world- incompetence can literally get you killed.
What begins as a relationship of convenience, with ulterior motives and careful orchestration on Camille’s part develops into a genuine affection that is decidedly more normal and sane than E’s books usually go for.
But when secrets come out and Camille’s manipulation and lies are revealed, Ryan doesn’t take it lightly, given his past history. Nor should he. And in different circumstances, I really think he would’ve walked away and never looked back. But circumstances forcing proximity and Camille realizing his feelings toward Ryan are far more than just a means to an end means both of them have to navigate how, and even if, to keep the relationship going.
All while trying to solve the mystery of the murder of Camille’s parents and what Ryan’s grandfather had to do with it.
It was a really good read, very spicy, and not as dark as much of E. Baileu’s offerings- no literal kidnappings, no actual captivity, no mindbreak HEAs, no one regularly murders someone on random Tuesday afternoons or runs a crime syndicate. We’re talking almost normal humans here, folks, not Daddies who should probably be in maximum security prisons (which I do love those, but I honestly wasn’t expecting this degree of fairly normal human behavior.).
And Ryan’s snark had me constantly snorting in laughter because I, too, speak sarcasm fluently and use it liberally. Ryan really felt like someone I would be friends with. Or even could potentially be. I really loved him as a character, and the way he exasperated the hell out of Camille had me laughing a lot.
Anyway, go read this one.
-MM romance
-Trans man MC
-BIPOC MC
-French academic x American who inherited a cottage in France from a grandfather he didn’t know existed
-Age gap (7 years)
-Forced proximity
-Manipulation
-So many snakes
-Murder mystery
-Family secrets
Review of advance copy received from Author
🚩🚩 Now before we head into everything I will say it is VERY important to check the TWs with this one as it is a Dark Romance with heavy themes throughout.
***There is on page SA (not between MCs), Manipulation, Emotional abuse and a few others you should be prepared for. There is a hard earned HEA here with emphasis on hard earned. Always remember your mental health matters 🖤
🌶🌶🌶🌶
This is also a bit of a Romantic Suspense story so I will try and give a spoiler free review.
Ryan received basically a gift from fate when he found out his Grandfather left him a small estate in France after he died. Ryan is trying to get away from his abusive Ex and this cottage in France seems like a good place. When he gets there though he soon finds out that this isn't just a regular run down cottage and his Grandfather didn't just up and leave France but he fled. There are secrets here that Ryan wasn't prepared for and his too friendly new neighbor Camille isn't giving them up even though it's obvious he knows.
Camille has been obsessed with the cottage as well as Ryan's Grandfather for 18 years after his mother disappeared and Ryan's grandfather was tied up in the disappearance. Camille just has to get close enough to Ryan to be able to check the place out finally. When these two start getting closer though Camille is feeling the guilt of manipulating Ryan but this mystery is one he has been chasing his whole life and now he has to make a decision before it's made for him....
Poor Ryan just can't catch a break man 🥺 this story puts an emphasis on No is not just a word, it's a whole sentence and all Ryan wanted was to be listened to. The strength he has to just keep going was incredible. I was flying threw this book and I didn't even realize it! It's so easy to get lost in this plot I needed the answers as much as the Characters did!! I'm definitely recommending this one to those who love a little mystery in their reads.....and holy hell the spice in this 🥵🔥🥵 definitely not lacking! The chemistry Ryan and Camille had was off the charts and the banter was fantastic 🤣 definitely another great one by E. Baileu!
Tropes/Tags
Dark Romance
Suspense/Mystery
Hurt/Comfort
Age Gap (23/30)
Trans MC (FtM)
Obsessive MC
Protective MC
Touch Him and 💀
Fear Play
Kneel🧎🏻♂️
Fisting 🤜🏻
Marking
Breath Play
Feasting 👅
***There is on page SA (not between MCs), Manipulation, Emotional abuse and a few others you should be prepared for. There is a hard earned HEA here with emphasis on hard earned. Always remember your mental health matters 🖤
🌶🌶🌶🌶
This is also a bit of a Romantic Suspense story so I will try and give a spoiler free review.
Ryan received basically a gift from fate when he found out his Grandfather left him a small estate in France after he died. Ryan is trying to get away from his abusive Ex and this cottage in France seems like a good place. When he gets there though he soon finds out that this isn't just a regular run down cottage and his Grandfather didn't just up and leave France but he fled. There are secrets here that Ryan wasn't prepared for and his too friendly new neighbor Camille isn't giving them up even though it's obvious he knows.
Camille has been obsessed with the cottage as well as Ryan's Grandfather for 18 years after his mother disappeared and Ryan's grandfather was tied up in the disappearance. Camille just has to get close enough to Ryan to be able to check the place out finally. When these two start getting closer though Camille is feeling the guilt of manipulating Ryan but this mystery is one he has been chasing his whole life and now he has to make a decision before it's made for him....
Poor Ryan just can't catch a break man 🥺 this story puts an emphasis on No is not just a word, it's a whole sentence and all Ryan wanted was to be listened to. The strength he has to just keep going was incredible. I was flying threw this book and I didn't even realize it! It's so easy to get lost in this plot I needed the answers as much as the Characters did!! I'm definitely recommending this one to those who love a little mystery in their reads.....and holy hell the spice in this 🥵🔥🥵 definitely not lacking! The chemistry Ryan and Camille had was off the charts and the banter was fantastic 🤣 definitely another great one by E. Baileu!
Tropes/Tags
Dark Romance
Suspense/Mystery
Hurt/Comfort
Age Gap (23/30)
Trans MC (FtM)
Obsessive MC
Protective MC
Touch Him and 💀
Fear Play
Kneel🧎🏻♂️
Fisting 🤜🏻
Marking
Breath Play
Feasting 👅
September 21, 2026
ARC REVIEW
This book completely sucked me in. I already enjoyed the first book in the series, but I think I connected with this one even more. Ryan and Camille had such an interesting dynamic, and I loved watching their relationship slowly develop.
Ryan especially stood out to me. He’s incredibly independent and stubborn, sometimes to his own detriment, but it made so much sense considering everything he’d been through. Watching him start to recognize what he actually deserved and take back control of his own life was probably my favorite part of his character arc.
And then there’s Camille, who is definitely not as straightforward as he first seems. Their relationship starts with plenty of secrets and questionable intentions, but somehow the emotional connection between them still felt believable. I really liked that Ryan wasn't just along for the ride either. He had his own wants, boundaries, and decisions throughout the story.
The mystery was another huge highlight for me. The whole snake and venom element fit the story so well, and I loved slowly uncovering what was actually happening. The setting added so much atmosphere too, especially with the old cottage and all the secrets surrounding it.
There’s a lot of darkness here, so definitely check the content warnings, but underneath all of that is a surprisingly emotional story about healing, trust, and finding your way forward.
Ryan and Camille absolutely put me through it, but that ending made everything worth it. I had the honor of reading the first book and I can say that I’m officially invested in this series and need to know what comes next.
This book completely sucked me in. I already enjoyed the first book in the series, but I think I connected with this one even more. Ryan and Camille had such an interesting dynamic, and I loved watching their relationship slowly develop.
Ryan especially stood out to me. He’s incredibly independent and stubborn, sometimes to his own detriment, but it made so much sense considering everything he’d been through. Watching him start to recognize what he actually deserved and take back control of his own life was probably my favorite part of his character arc.
And then there’s Camille, who is definitely not as straightforward as he first seems. Their relationship starts with plenty of secrets and questionable intentions, but somehow the emotional connection between them still felt believable. I really liked that Ryan wasn't just along for the ride either. He had his own wants, boundaries, and decisions throughout the story.
The mystery was another huge highlight for me. The whole snake and venom element fit the story so well, and I loved slowly uncovering what was actually happening. The setting added so much atmosphere too, especially with the old cottage and all the secrets surrounding it.
There’s a lot of darkness here, so definitely check the content warnings, but underneath all of that is a surprisingly emotional story about healing, trust, and finding your way forward.
Ryan and Camille absolutely put me through it, but that ending made everything worth it. I had the honor of reading the first book and I can say that I’m officially invested in this series and need to know what comes next.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review (and thank you so much for the ARC!). Encore!! This book is amazing, the setting, the plot and the pacing is perfection. I loved reading the French with the translation afterwards, amazing, thank you for that, loved the setting of rural France and that Ryan was an outsider looking for his place but also hiding/running away from his absolutely horrible ex boyfriend. Ryan then finds himself in the middle of a bizarre mystery involving his dead grandfather who he inherited the cottage he’s living in and trying to learn about. Enter Camille, a very handsome man who knows more than he lets on and someone Ryan is having a hard time trusting given his past. I mean fair and valid!
I enjoyed all of it. The story of Ryan’s grandfather, Camille’s family, Ryan and Camille’s relationship and how it progresses is amazing because Camille accepts Ryan as a trans man, no questions, he’s attracted and wants him, doesn’t care about anything else. I loved that for Ryan given how much he went through with his past boyfriend, he deserved so much more and deserved to be loved for who he is not what someone wants him to be.
The feelings in this book are so complicated and complex, the parallels between Ryan and his grandfather stories are perfect and then there is the parallel for betrays as well which is so well done. The plot is woven so perfectly throughout, told in flashbacks at times via journal entries and memories. I cannot recommend this one enough!
I enjoyed all of it. The story of Ryan’s grandfather, Camille’s family, Ryan and Camille’s relationship and how it progresses is amazing because Camille accepts Ryan as a trans man, no questions, he’s attracted and wants him, doesn’t care about anything else. I loved that for Ryan given how much he went through with his past boyfriend, he deserved so much more and deserved to be loved for who he is not what someone wants him to be.
The feelings in this book are so complicated and complex, the parallels between Ryan and his grandfather stories are perfect and then there is the parallel for betrays as well which is so well done. The plot is woven so perfectly throughout, told in flashbacks at times via journal entries and memories. I cannot recommend this one enough!
Review of advance copy received from Author
As soon as I finished There's Something in the Water, I knew I had to read Where The Snakes Sleep as soon as possible and man oh man did E. Baileu not let me down!
This book was SO damn amazing and I finished it all in one go. I have to say, this book starts out with some potentially triggering things, so please check the CW before you start reading.
I adored Ryan so damn much. From leaving the first boyfriend, heading off to France and doing his fucking BEST with the house, the community and language. Him attempting to everything on his own, including repairs was inspiring and slightly hilarious. That poor wall 🤣
That poor plumbing! Surviving on spite and French witchcraft!
Camille was doing HIS best to manipulate Ryan in every way he could, taking away all of Ryan's choices, and DAMN. I was so ready to absolutely hate this character, especially when he admits it to Ryan, but damn. "But he admitted it... And he gave the choices back."
That POWER SCENE?! EXCUSE ME?!
Watching it all happen while you know what's going on is so damn painful, especially while Ryan is down in the hole, reading the journal and everything clicking and how much he's been lied to.
E. Bailey is just an autobuy author now and my gosh. These two are also SO fucking hilarious.
That expression is far too pleased for a man who has done absolutely nothing to earn credit for my Duolingo streak.
"Don't patronize me." "I complimented you." "You complimented me in French. It sounded smug." "I am French. Everything sounds smug to you." 🤣🤣
"You're staring," Camille says.
"I'm objectifying you."
"Thank you for clarifying."
"You're welcome."
ENOCRE! 😭🤣
This book was SO damn amazing and I finished it all in one go. I have to say, this book starts out with some potentially triggering things, so please check the CW before you start reading.
I adored Ryan so damn much. From leaving the first boyfriend, heading off to France and doing his fucking BEST with the house, the community and language. Him attempting to everything on his own, including repairs was inspiring and slightly hilarious. That poor wall 🤣
That poor plumbing! Surviving on spite and French witchcraft!
Camille was doing HIS best to manipulate Ryan in every way he could, taking away all of Ryan's choices, and DAMN. I was so ready to absolutely hate this character, especially when he admits it to Ryan, but damn. "But he admitted it... And he gave the choices back."
That POWER SCENE?! EXCUSE ME?!
Watching it all happen while you know what's going on is so damn painful, especially while Ryan is down in the hole, reading the journal and everything clicking and how much he's been lied to.
E. Bailey is just an autobuy author now and my gosh. These two are also SO fucking hilarious.
That expression is far too pleased for a man who has done absolutely nothing to earn credit for my Duolingo streak.
"Don't patronize me." "I complimented you." "You complimented me in French. It sounded smug." "I am French. Everything sounds smug to you." 🤣🤣
"You're staring," Camille says.
"I'm objectifying you."
"Thank you for clarifying."
"You're welcome."
ENOCRE! 😭🤣
September 19, 2026
Loved this so much!
So, recently I reviewed the first book in this series, "There's Something in the Water," and it was brilliant and beautiful. This book is quite different while remaning completely on theme w/ the series, which I really enjoyed. Reading the same book twice would have been disappointing, but that didn't happen at all.
WTSS is beautiful and brilliant in its own way. The language sounds less lyrical than TSITW, but the knowledge of venomous snakes and use of French in the book add so much flavor. Also, Ryan and Camille (pronounced kah-me-yah) are so unique in their own ways. Camille is intense, and Ryan is fiercely independent. They make an unusual pairing w/ their differing personalities, and that's part of what makes them so interesting as a couple. And the banter was so entertaining!
I really enjoyed this entry into the series. Not as much as the first book, but I adore Tobias (from TSITW) more than is healthy. lol And as much as Camille makes my heart flutter, he can not compete w/ Tobias. 😅
~~~
Things to consider when reading this book:
1.) There is an on page pure non-con scene (not between MCs). The book still feels morally gray to me, but that was a hard scene to read.
2.) This has so much mystery! I loved it!
3.) The spice is omg so hot, and it starts around 25% of the way through, so intense fast burn.
4.) As per usual, check your TWs/CWs!!
Anyway, I loved it and absolutely recommend it!
So, recently I reviewed the first book in this series, "There's Something in the Water," and it was brilliant and beautiful. This book is quite different while remaning completely on theme w/ the series, which I really enjoyed. Reading the same book twice would have been disappointing, but that didn't happen at all.
WTSS is beautiful and brilliant in its own way. The language sounds less lyrical than TSITW, but the knowledge of venomous snakes and use of French in the book add so much flavor. Also, Ryan and Camille (pronounced kah-me-yah) are so unique in their own ways. Camille is intense, and Ryan is fiercely independent. They make an unusual pairing w/ their differing personalities, and that's part of what makes them so interesting as a couple. And the banter was so entertaining!
I really enjoyed this entry into the series. Not as much as the first book, but I adore Tobias (from TSITW) more than is healthy. lol And as much as Camille makes my heart flutter, he can not compete w/ Tobias. 😅
~~~
Things to consider when reading this book:
1.) There is an on page pure non-con scene (not between MCs). The book still feels morally gray to me, but that was a hard scene to read.
2.) This has so much mystery! I loved it!
3.) The spice is omg so hot, and it starts around 25% of the way through, so intense fast burn.
4.) As per usual, check your TWs/CWs!!
Anyway, I loved it and absolutely recommend it!
September 12, 2026
ARC review.
Everything about this book was perfection!!! From start to finish. And it starts out with a bang, so check CWs.
I love both Ryan and Camille so much. Their relationship and how it evolved was truly beautiful. The instant attraction/connection to the betrayal and then finally to love. Camille worked so hard to prove to Ryan he could still have all his own choices after taking that away initially. I also loved that Ryan didn’t forgive right away.
The mysteries about his grandfather and cottage kept me guessing the whole time. There really weren’t many side characters to this story outside of Ryan and Camille. But the writing was so complex and beautiful they really held the whole story together. I thought Tobias from the first book was E Baileu’s best written MC, but Ryan and Camille are very close behind.
Let not forget the spice 🥵. Chapter 8 has to be the most beautiful and well written spice I think I’ve ever read. I actually reread the chapter a few times because it was that amazing!!
E Baileu is always a must read author for me and this is now one of my favorites. So grateful for the opportunity to do this ARC review. Can’t wait to see what’s next with this series.
Everything about this book was perfection!!! From start to finish. And it starts out with a bang, so check CWs.
I love both Ryan and Camille so much. Their relationship and how it evolved was truly beautiful. The instant attraction/connection to the betrayal and then finally to love. Camille worked so hard to prove to Ryan he could still have all his own choices after taking that away initially. I also loved that Ryan didn’t forgive right away.
The mysteries about his grandfather and cottage kept me guessing the whole time. There really weren’t many side characters to this story outside of Ryan and Camille. But the writing was so complex and beautiful they really held the whole story together. I thought Tobias from the first book was E Baileu’s best written MC, but Ryan and Camille are very close behind.
Let not forget the spice 🥵. Chapter 8 has to be the most beautiful and well written spice I think I’ve ever read. I actually reread the chapter a few times because it was that amazing!!
E Baileu is always a must read author for me and this is now one of my favorites. So grateful for the opportunity to do this ARC review. Can’t wait to see what’s next with this series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Encore
Before I start my review, I would like to thank the author for sending me an Arc!! As a big fan, I was super excited to have the opportunity!! Now, onwards to my thoughts:
I think this has become my top favorite E. Bailiue book. There was so, so much about this book that just really did it for me. One thing that really made me want to read this as soon as I could was Ryan being a trans character; As someone who is also trans, I’m always searching for books with characters I can relate to in that way, and I can say that Ryan really spoke to me. Alot of the things he struggles with I could understand.The mystery element of this was enjoyable ! It’s different from what I’ve seen from this author for sure, however I think it really worked with the plot! Another thing I very much enjoyed is how different Ryan and Camille’s relationship is from couples of the authors other works. Because of Ryan’s trauma, he hates being manipulated and lied to, and when Camille does it, he doesn’t just accept the behavior. Camille has to work to gain back Ryan’s trust, and see that Ryan doesn’t want him making choices for him. The atmosphere, spice scenes, and descriptions of the French landscape was *chiefs kiss*. Overall, I really, truly, loved this story!! I highly recommend!
Before I start my review, I would like to thank the author for sending me an Arc!! As a big fan, I was super excited to have the opportunity!! Now, onwards to my thoughts:
I think this has become my top favorite E. Bailiue book. There was so, so much about this book that just really did it for me. One thing that really made me want to read this as soon as I could was Ryan being a trans character; As someone who is also trans, I’m always searching for books with characters I can relate to in that way, and I can say that Ryan really spoke to me. Alot of the things he struggles with I could understand.The mystery element of this was enjoyable ! It’s different from what I’ve seen from this author for sure, however I think it really worked with the plot! Another thing I very much enjoyed is how different Ryan and Camille’s relationship is from couples of the authors other works. Because of Ryan’s trauma, he hates being manipulated and lied to, and when Camille does it, he doesn’t just accept the behavior. Camille has to work to gain back Ryan’s trust, and see that Ryan doesn’t want him making choices for him. The atmosphere, spice scenes, and descriptions of the French landscape was *chiefs kiss*. Overall, I really, truly, loved this story!! I highly recommend!
Review of advance copy received from Author
5 WONDERFUL "ENCORE" (if yk, yk) STARS
OMG WDYM I was CRYING with all the feelings.
From the very begining this book start strong, but the pase of the whole story? It´s exquisite. Every part of the construction of this book is envolve with care and that care is translated to "need" for knowing more, need to read more, need to devour this history.
The characters gained my heart. Ryan and Camille were two damaged souls that found their path and found a home fot their hearts in such a beautiful way that I ended up crying. And obviously, the SPICE WAS SO SOARCHING HOT THAT MY EYES COULD NOT BELIEVE WHAT IN THE SMUT HELL I WAS READING.
The plot is super captivating, there were times where all the mistery and the angst transform me in a detective and when all the hell went loose I was super surprised (in a very good way).
I LOVE very much the way E. Baileu writes and I am SO grateful that she gave the opportunity to have this amazing story in advance. I hope I can be able to discover more of her marvelous stories and I hope E. Baileu never stops writting because she is a pro in the MM field.
OMG WDYM I was CRYING with all the feelings.
From the very begining this book start strong, but the pase of the whole story? It´s exquisite. Every part of the construction of this book is envolve with care and that care is translated to "need" for knowing more, need to read more, need to devour this history.
The characters gained my heart. Ryan and Camille were two damaged souls that found their path and found a home fot their hearts in such a beautiful way that I ended up crying. And obviously, the SPICE WAS SO SOARCHING HOT THAT MY EYES COULD NOT BELIEVE WHAT IN THE SMUT HELL I WAS READING.
The plot is super captivating, there were times where all the mistery and the angst transform me in a detective and when all the hell went loose I was super surprised (in a very good way).
I LOVE very much the way E. Baileu writes and I am SO grateful that she gave the opportunity to have this amazing story in advance. I hope I can be able to discover more of her marvelous stories and I hope E. Baileu never stops writting because she is a pro in the MM field.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I'm not crying, you are!
Also I am an addict. It's official I am now certainly addicted to E. Baileu's books.
PLEASE READ THE CWs, I know this author means what they say about this because I have see them say it.
The start to this book explains everything about the start of Ryan's journey, but it is not easy to read.
You will follow Ryan's journey to as he says "My inheritance, my fresh start."
Then you will meet Camille, meet his snakes because he is a venomologist and hear his story. And you will read that Ryan calls him " Creepy-ass hot French fuck"
As the story progresses the hints come, of the town's opinion of Ryan's family, of the cottage and what it may contain, Camille's plan for Ryan and much more sinister stuff, like why the town feels as it does.
I could make this review much longer but I will hope you will read it for yourselves.
I just want to add two things imo that made this book so special. The Banter. I love good banter and Ryan calls himself a petulant toddler but that made him so good at what he says and Camille was the perfect one to receive it. And The Smut. It was just the right amount and 🔥🔥🔥 af.
Will you love the ending, I did!
Also I am an addict. It's official I am now certainly addicted to E. Baileu's books.
PLEASE READ THE CWs, I know this author means what they say about this because I have see them say it.
The start to this book explains everything about the start of Ryan's journey, but it is not easy to read.
You will follow Ryan's journey to as he says "My inheritance, my fresh start."
Then you will meet Camille, meet his snakes because he is a venomologist and hear his story. And you will read that Ryan calls him " Creepy-ass hot French fuck"
As the story progresses the hints come, of the town's opinion of Ryan's family, of the cottage and what it may contain, Camille's plan for Ryan and much more sinister stuff, like why the town feels as it does.
I could make this review much longer but I will hope you will read it for yourselves.
I just want to add two things imo that made this book so special. The Banter. I love good banter and Ryan calls himself a petulant toddler but that made him so good at what he says and Camille was the perfect one to receive it. And The Smut. It was just the right amount and 🔥🔥🔥 af.
Will you love the ending, I did!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 15, 2026
E. Baileu has done it again. The way E. writes is so compelling - once again I got so engaged in this story, I just loved it! I felt for Ryan immediately and wanted so much more for him. I was so excited for his second chance. And Camille's story was intriguing - I needed all the details like immediately. I loved how E. combined the trauma healing, spice, intrigue all into one and they all blended into a fabulous story. I could not put this one down. It's hard to articulate just what it is about E.'s writing that sucks you in and brings you on this journey with the characters, to the point where you feel like you're in the story. The slow burn/ buildup of trust was so good and the mystery slowly unraveling... just chef's kiss. I loved the power dynamics and Camille's total ability to show Ryan his feelings for him by giving him his choice back. It was so swoony. The banter between these two is also amazing. I highlighted whole conversations because they made me chuckle. I loved Ryan's snarkiness and how Camille just takes it with a smirk. E. Baileu has been an automatic read for me for awhile now, and this one has just reinforced that decsion.
September 20, 2026
E Baileu is just one of my favorite authors and nothing they write is ever bad. WtSS is just another example of that. The story starts off really dark for Ryan and leads to him ending up in France at a cottage left to him by his grandfather. From there, Ryan meets Camille who is so suave. Their relationship does not start off with the best intentions unbeknownst to Ryan. Once Ryan figures out though, the groveling is actually phenomenal. I am extremely picky about groveling and I need it to be exquisite and E goes beyond the mark! I absolutely loved watching these two slowly learn to heal various parts of themselves and learn what it takes to be together. Aside from the romance, these two are working to solve a deadly mystery that is the main plot throughout the story and really drives the romance aspect as well.
September 21, 2026
After reading the first book in this series, I was excited to see how the second book would compare and WOW did I really enjoy this book!! I loved the mystery and the way the relationship developed between the two MCs in a way that was more realistic and not just an insta-love, immediate forgiveness type storyline (not that there’s anything wrong with that). I also love the way the trans MC was treated as just another human with their own personality and not just reduced down to his gender like how some romance books with trans MCs can be. (As a trans guy myself who’s dealt with horrible relationships, it was really nice to see how Ryan was just accepted as he was by Camille after everything he went through with his ex)
Overall, I absolutely LOVED this second installment with the mystery and romance (and some really good spicy scenes), 10/10 would recommend!
Overall, I absolutely LOVED this second installment with the mystery and romance (and some really good spicy scenes), 10/10 would recommend!
September 23, 2026
I enjoyed the other standalone in this series because it was stunningly well written, but it was dark romance with a capital D which is not at all my thing. This one was much lighter. Boy inherits a house from the grandfather he barely knew, moves to France, and takes up with the incredibly attractive venomologist neighbor — who happens to be investigating a murder that said grandfather was involved with. It’s lyrically written, fan yourself hot, and the banter is fantastic. Two complicated, untrusting people trying to figure out how to trust one another in a beautiful if complicated love story. Just fantastic. (Also, cool stuff with snakes. I love snakes.)
Trans MMC, some medium BDSM, there are a number of snakes in this one if you’re less enthusiastic about them than me, and fair warning for on page sexual assault of one MMC by a past partner in the first chapter. (There’s a full list of content warnings by the author in the intro.) But - yes, it has a HEA!
Trans MMC, some medium BDSM, there are a number of snakes in this one if you’re less enthusiastic about them than me, and fair warning for on page sexual assault of one MMC by a past partner in the first chapter. (There’s a full list of content warnings by the author in the intro.) But - yes, it has a HEA!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Before my review, I just wanted to mention that checking Trigger Warnings is important. Please make sure you check them.
Ok.... this was so much more than a romance book. There is, trauma, suspense, mystery, tragedy, and a lot of emotions. This book follows Ryan's journey from leaving a traumatic situation in America, to going to France where he inherits a cottage from his estranged grandfather. Let's just say that is was not quite the "fresh start" he was hoping for. He is (not-so)welcomed by this tiny village in the country side in a country that he can't speak the language of. However, his new hot as heck neighbor, Camille, is very friendly...... maybe a little "too friendly." E. Baileu is really good at writing original stories that are complex and oh so lovely to devour.
Ok.... this was so much more than a romance book. There is, trauma, suspense, mystery, tragedy, and a lot of emotions. This book follows Ryan's journey from leaving a traumatic situation in America, to going to France where he inherits a cottage from his estranged grandfather. Let's just say that is was not quite the "fresh start" he was hoping for. He is (not-so)welcomed by this tiny village in the country side in a country that he can't speak the language of. However, his new hot as heck neighbor, Camille, is very friendly...... maybe a little "too friendly." E. Baileu is really good at writing original stories that are complex and oh so lovely to devour.
Review of advance copy received from Author
When I tell you I clung till every word to the very end. I know this book isn't a mystery, but the mysterious elements, the thrilling aspect of snakes, and a hot, elusive French neighbor. Sign me up. What I love about Baileu is the uniqueness of their stories, characters, etc. They always do the unexpected, and they do it well. A venomologist, and the inheritance that helps Ryan escape a tumultuous situation. I just ate this book up, and don't get me started on the representation.
This is another hit for E Baileu and yet again I love the way their brain works, and the stories they create.
This is another hit for E Baileu and yet again I love the way their brain works, and the stories they create.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 19, 2026
This was such a beautifully woven mystery/thriller/romance. Ryan flees to France when he inherits a home there. He’s looking to start over and sparks quickly fly with his mysterious neighbor Camille. But Camille has a lot of secrets and so does Ryan’s home. I truly enjoyed the banter and the chemistry between them. But the best part was the delicious power shift after Ryan figures out what’s really going on. And right in the middle of their growing attraction and the mystery they are trying to solve, is a backstory so tragic and heartbreaking that makes you wonder how far you would go for love. All the stars! — Thank you to E. Baileu for the early copy of this engaging ride.
September 21, 2026
Where the snakes sleep.
When you start this book you think its going to be about snakes. Dangerous , poisonous reptiles.
But they are not the ones being treacherous, deceitful, violent and murderous.
Ryan just trying to find a place of peace away from his ex, away from the pain of his betrayal. His estranged gradnfathers Frech countryside cottage seems to be where he can find this.
Camille has been serchring for the truth for 20 years. And is not above manipulating Ryan to find it.
Add in hidden rooms, secret relationships and a hefty dose of spice.
Ryan and Camile find each other, survive betrayal and a old mad man.. and yes revenge is sweet.
When you start this book you think its going to be about snakes. Dangerous , poisonous reptiles.
But they are not the ones being treacherous, deceitful, violent and murderous.
Ryan just trying to find a place of peace away from his ex, away from the pain of his betrayal. His estranged gradnfathers Frech countryside cottage seems to be where he can find this.
Camille has been serchring for the truth for 20 years. And is not above manipulating Ryan to find it.
Add in hidden rooms, secret relationships and a hefty dose of spice.
Ryan and Camile find each other, survive betrayal and a old mad man.. and yes revenge is sweet.
September 15, 2026
Review of advance copy received from Author…
I really enjoyed this book! I will say it did take me awhile to get into it. But that could be because I’m fighting a major slump 🫠
I absolutely loveeeeeeeeeeee Camille & Ryan but I do wish that we got to see more of their relationship. Besides just the sex and dealing with the cottage and Ryan’s grandfather but other than that. The storyline was great, characters are great, the spice was great but that ending!?!? I was at the edge of my seat the whole time 😂 that stressed me out.
I really enjoyed this book! I will say it did take me awhile to get into it. But that could be because I’m fighting a major slump 🫠
I absolutely loveeeeeeeeeeee Camille & Ryan but I do wish that we got to see more of their relationship. Besides just the sex and dealing with the cottage and Ryan’s grandfather but other than that. The storyline was great, characters are great, the spice was great but that ending!?!? I was at the edge of my seat the whole time 😂 that stressed me out.
September 23, 2026
The plot was good. The snakes were really cool. Loved Camille. Ryan just sucked. Like, I hated him so much. He's petty, unreasonable, and just mean. Watching Camille walk on eggshells for the entire 2nd half of the book and be belittled and treated like absolute sh*t just wasn't a good time. There were also some plot holes (like the entire timeline makes absolutely no sense), but my rating is mostly because Ryan is just the worst.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews