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The Prime Wranglers #1
SnowMaker
Desolate. Lawless. Wild.
A land where bandits rule,
and supernatural creatures known as Primes
wield the forces of nature like deadly weapons.
The West is no place to start a life,
let alone to fall in love.
But for Cazo Briggs, there was never any other choice.
From the moment he felt the first hint of attraction for another boy, Cazo knew there could be no life for him in the world where he grew up. So, he fled to a place where anything was possible. He fled to the West.
The experience nearly killed him.
Now, having barely survived his journey, it looks like he’s finally found the life he’s been searching for. He has a good job on a cattle ranch – and he has the heart of the ranch’s ruggedly handsome cowhand, Zee. But the oasis Cazo finds himself in may turn out to be little more than a mirage. When a notorious bandit comes to town looking to settle an old score with Zee, Cazo learns that the past is not so easily outrun – and that his happy ending might not have been as final as he would have liked.
Trapped on the ranch, Cazo must do battle to save the life he loves. His enemy is ruthless, and the ranch has many secrets – some that could help him, and some that could do him harm. Defeating the bandit will take everything Cazo has, and before the dust settles, he will have to ask himself one very important question: Just how much of his new life is really worth saving?
SNOWMAKER is a fantasy western set in a reimagined West. Here, powerful creatures known as Primes roam the frontier, and daring Wranglers risk their lives to capture them. Experience the beginning of a thrilling western saga!
A land where bandits rule,
and supernatural creatures known as Primes
wield the forces of nature like deadly weapons.
The West is no place to start a life,
let alone to fall in love.
But for Cazo Briggs, there was never any other choice.
From the moment he felt the first hint of attraction for another boy, Cazo knew there could be no life for him in the world where he grew up. So, he fled to a place where anything was possible. He fled to the West.
The experience nearly killed him.
Now, having barely survived his journey, it looks like he’s finally found the life he’s been searching for. He has a good job on a cattle ranch – and he has the heart of the ranch’s ruggedly handsome cowhand, Zee. But the oasis Cazo finds himself in may turn out to be little more than a mirage. When a notorious bandit comes to town looking to settle an old score with Zee, Cazo learns that the past is not so easily outrun – and that his happy ending might not have been as final as he would have liked.
Trapped on the ranch, Cazo must do battle to save the life he loves. His enemy is ruthless, and the ranch has many secrets – some that could help him, and some that could do him harm. Defeating the bandit will take everything Cazo has, and before the dust settles, he will have to ask himself one very important question: Just how much of his new life is really worth saving?
SNOWMAKER is a fantasy western set in a reimagined West. Here, powerful creatures known as Primes roam the frontier, and daring Wranglers risk their lives to capture them. Experience the beginning of a thrilling western saga!
193 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 9, 2021
2 people are currently reading
112 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
May 13, 2021
The few paranormal westerns I've tried in the past have been a bit 'hit and miss' but the unusual world with it's different use of Prime (read familiars here folks) generated magical power proved interesting and enjoyable. Most of the action takes place within an enclosed desert-bounded property with the MC and other residents being terrorized without and within by a notorious blood-thirsty bandit/outlaw (without too much of the slash/gore teen flicks TG!).
I liked MC Cazo but had mixed feelings about other MC Zee. And I especially appreciated that there was no ... which paved the way to a brighter future (as promised by the next book in the series). 4 stars for a great start-off book.
I liked MC Cazo but had mixed feelings about other MC Zee. And I especially appreciated that there was no ... which paved the way to a brighter future (as promised by the next book in the series). 4 stars for a great start-off book.
March 23, 2022
Fantasy western where good and love win in an environment with a survival-of-the-fittest mentality. While there is a love story in here, and the central conflict challenges that relationship, I wouldn’t call this a romance, and I don’t think it’s intended to be a romance. It’s the good guy idealist vs the notorious outlaw who wants to murder everyone. So we have fantasy meets the old west with a side of love, and it is delightful.
Cazo lives a happy, content life with his boyfriend Zee in a desert oasis called Seward City. Seward City is the pipe dream of a guy who’s got money and has also managed to get a SnowMaker—a fantastical creature that can make it snow in the desert, so water. Life there is everything Cazo never thought possible—the comforting routine of home and being able to have an open relationship with Zee. Then it turns out Zee is a former outlaw and his former partner-in-crime, Rattlesnake Rose, wants him back, and she’ll murder everyone in the city to get him. Everybody agrees she’s impossible to beat, except for Cazo, who decides it’s up to him to figure out a way to defeat her.
What resonated the most strongly with me was Cazo’s character—as in, his character as a person. The place he lives—the harsh desert environment of the West that almost killed him—demands that everyone prioritize their own survival over anything else. But without rejecting the value of his own life, Cazo insists that the other people in their group, even the ones who made big mistakes, are worth saving too. While his lover adopts a defeatist mentality and struggles to find a way to appease Rattlesnake Rose and keep Cazo alive, even if that means killing everyone else, Cazo insists on finding a better way. What’s remarkable is that Cazo holds none of this against Zee. He loves him at a deep enough level to not give up on Zee or their relationship when Zee’s actions don’t match Cazo’s ideal. Even when they ultimately hurt Cazo.
For a short book, this covers a lot of territory. Empathy for your beloved when they’re making decisions you don’t think are the best. Stepping up when no one around you will. The significance of home and the lengths a person will go to to save it. Reality versus veneer. Optimism versus defeatism. Plus a fantasy world of creatures called Primes and their bonded humans and how that drastically ups the stakes in every battle.
And also, this cover! It captures so well the beauty of the desert and the happy hope of the ending.
This was all around a delightful read, and I am looking forward to the second and third books in the series.
Cazo lives a happy, content life with his boyfriend Zee in a desert oasis called Seward City. Seward City is the pipe dream of a guy who’s got money and has also managed to get a SnowMaker—a fantastical creature that can make it snow in the desert, so water. Life there is everything Cazo never thought possible—the comforting routine of home and being able to have an open relationship with Zee. Then it turns out Zee is a former outlaw and his former partner-in-crime, Rattlesnake Rose, wants him back, and she’ll murder everyone in the city to get him. Everybody agrees she’s impossible to beat, except for Cazo, who decides it’s up to him to figure out a way to defeat her.
What resonated the most strongly with me was Cazo’s character—as in, his character as a person. The place he lives—the harsh desert environment of the West that almost killed him—demands that everyone prioritize their own survival over anything else. But without rejecting the value of his own life, Cazo insists that the other people in their group, even the ones who made big mistakes, are worth saving too. While his lover adopts a defeatist mentality and struggles to find a way to appease Rattlesnake Rose and keep Cazo alive, even if that means killing everyone else, Cazo insists on finding a better way. What’s remarkable is that Cazo holds none of this against Zee. He loves him at a deep enough level to not give up on Zee or their relationship when Zee’s actions don’t match Cazo’s ideal. Even when they ultimately hurt Cazo.
For a short book, this covers a lot of territory. Empathy for your beloved when they’re making decisions you don’t think are the best. Stepping up when no one around you will. The significance of home and the lengths a person will go to to save it. Reality versus veneer. Optimism versus defeatism. Plus a fantasy world of creatures called Primes and their bonded humans and how that drastically ups the stakes in every battle.
And also, this cover! It captures so well the beauty of the desert and the happy hope of the ending.
This was all around a delightful read, and I am looking forward to the second and third books in the series.
February 22, 2021
What a pleasant surprise this book was! Well written, good characters, and all the signs of a good series in the making. There's good character growth in this book and not just from the MCs.
I love the premise of Primes! It's refreshing to read creative fantasy books like this one in the MM genre.
There's no sex in this book but there's a few flirty and sweet scenes which is fine for me, I enjoy books with and without smut.
The action is good, there's tension and no small bit of drama :P The antagonist is also well done, I really hated her!
All in all, well worth the read and I'm looking forward to future books in this series!
I love the premise of Primes! It's refreshing to read creative fantasy books like this one in the MM genre.
There's no sex in this book but there's a few flirty and sweet scenes which is fine for me, I enjoy books with and without smut.
The action is good, there's tension and no small bit of drama :P The antagonist is also well done, I really hated her!
All in all, well worth the read and I'm looking forward to future books in this series!
April 30, 2021
Not sure what I'm missing that other readers loved because I was bored stiff with this. I almost DNF'd it a few times and read two other books and multiple manga in between to try to keep my reading streak going.
Cazo isn't a very distinct/developed character and has trouble carrying the story mostly on his own, while his relationship with Zee seems merely one of convenience so the "romance" also didn't grab me. Over half way through the book and, while the drama that Rose was creating was keeping the story going, it felt like nothing had really happened and we still knew next to nothing about each of the characters - at least not enough to keep this reader invested and engaged. A little over half-way through we find out that bomb that the "relationship" between Zee and Cazo is even less stable than it felt at the beginning and I about threw my book across the room.
Overall, would have been a great AU world with a Wild West tinge but just fell really flat. Read Wake of Vultures for a good queer AU Western with cryptids.
Cazo isn't a very distinct/developed character and has trouble carrying the story mostly on his own, while his relationship with Zee seems merely one of convenience so the "romance" also didn't grab me. Over half way through the book and, while the drama that Rose was creating was keeping the story going, it felt like nothing had really happened and we still knew next to nothing about each of the characters - at least not enough to keep this reader invested and engaged. A little over half-way through we find out that bomb that the "relationship" between Zee and Cazo is even less stable than it felt at the beginning and I about threw my book across the room.
Overall, would have been a great AU world with a Wild West tinge but just fell really flat. Read Wake of Vultures for a good queer AU Western with cryptids.
September 20, 2022
2.5 stars.
The reading mood I'm in definitely had a positive affect on my experience with SnowMaker, because while normally it would have been something I put down pretty quickly due to a lack of world development and character backstory being fleshed out on-page, I needed a book that didn't require too much of me, that I could be thrown into and breeze through without many emotions. Compulsively readable, the first book in the trilogy set up a pretty cool premise of an alternate Wild West with some fantasy elements in the form of Primes, animals that have unusual nature abilities that can be harnessed for various means. I also was excited to see this is largely about an established relationship, though Cazo and Zee's coming together was never given any depth beyond a brief mention. Also: more badass women that are not evil, please.
Would this have been more successful after another draft or two, with more meat to it and less repetition? For sure. But I can't deny that I'm curious enough to continue the second book, especially now that I've adjusted my expectations.
The reading mood I'm in definitely had a positive affect on my experience with SnowMaker, because while normally it would have been something I put down pretty quickly due to a lack of world development and character backstory being fleshed out on-page, I needed a book that didn't require too much of me, that I could be thrown into and breeze through without many emotions. Compulsively readable, the first book in the trilogy set up a pretty cool premise of an alternate Wild West with some fantasy elements in the form of Primes, animals that have unusual nature abilities that can be harnessed for various means. I also was excited to see this is largely about an established relationship, though Cazo and Zee's coming together was never given any depth beyond a brief mention. Also: more badass women that are not evil, please.
Would this have been more successful after another draft or two, with more meat to it and less repetition? For sure. But I can't deny that I'm curious enough to continue the second book, especially now that I've adjusted my expectations.
What can I say? Sometimes it pays to have a notorious outlaw for a boyfriend.
February 27, 2021
I was hooked right from the start. The fantasy-infused West is full of possibility and danger. I was instantly drawn into Cazo Brigg’s plight to forge a new life for himself out in the free but lawless West and the obstacles that are thrown into his way — namely one very conniving and cruel Rattlesnake Rosa who happens to be the former partner-in-crime of Cazo’s lover, Zee Calhoun. This book is the perfect blend of interpersonal drama and more action-oriented conflict. The characters are colorful and complex, and it was a true joy getting to know them. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for adventure and some wonderfully endearing characters!
November 27, 2021
SnowMaker reminds us what family, love, and genuine acceptance are all about—and why we should fight to our last breath to protect them.
From the magic system to a modern interpretation of the Western genre, SnowMaker has a lot for readers to enjoy. A diverse cast of characters (multiple colors, languages, ages, sexes, and sexualities) live in a world that's not quite as dark as the 'Dark Tower' series and is imbued with a Pokémon-esque magical creature hunting culture.
SnowMaker is a fun read for anyone who loves fantasy books. I'm already enjoying the second installment, MoonCatcher!
From the magic system to a modern interpretation of the Western genre, SnowMaker has a lot for readers to enjoy. A diverse cast of characters (multiple colors, languages, ages, sexes, and sexualities) live in a world that's not quite as dark as the 'Dark Tower' series and is imbued with a Pokémon-esque magical creature hunting culture.
SnowMaker is a fun read for anyone who loves fantasy books. I'm already enjoying the second installment, MoonCatcher!
December 18, 2023
In SnowMaker you enter the world of outlaws, the dangers of hope and the mysticism of primes.
Bentzle does an amazing job of creating dynamic characters and beautiful relationships while building an immersive world. His depictions of villainy are unmatched in Rattlesnake Rose- a truly bone chilling force, juxtaposed with Cazo's blind faith creates a wonderful and exhilarating adventure.
A story that will make you hold on to your hat and leave you wanting more.
Bentzle does an amazing job of creating dynamic characters and beautiful relationships while building an immersive world. His depictions of villainy are unmatched in Rattlesnake Rose- a truly bone chilling force, juxtaposed with Cazo's blind faith creates a wonderful and exhilarating adventure.
A story that will make you hold on to your hat and leave you wanting more.
April 14, 2021
Love the combination of fantasy and western, which made for an epic story! The concept of primes and prime wranglers was fun and inventive. I really felt for Cazo and was cheering for him to find a way to defeat Rattlesnake Rose. All the characters were well developed with back stories that were woven throughout the story. Can't wait to read the next adventure in the series!
February 15, 2021
Amazing worldbuilding and awesome book if you completely ignore the „romance“. But since i expected a good little lovestory i was sorely dissappointed. I liked the MC but he accepted way too much from everybody. He deserved better!
March 19, 2021
Great Book
I truly enjoyed this book. First it conveyed love without all the sex that so many books today contain. Second it was the first sci-fi based western that I have read. I look forward to the next book.
I truly enjoyed this book. First it conveyed love without all the sex that so many books today contain. Second it was the first sci-fi based western that I have read. I look forward to the next book.
December 20, 2022
This was a masterpiece. The queer fantasy western I’ve been dreaming of. The book that other books aspire to be.
I have to wake up in three hours, but fkk me I’m starting the second one.
I have to wake up in three hours, but fkk me I’m starting the second one.
August 28, 2021
Like many fantasy series, the Prime Wranglers begins its worldbuilding by dropping us off in a scoped location which is a part of a much bigger world. The best part of fantasy is the discovery, and we join Cazo (classic naive protagonist) in learning both about the world and about the people around him (and his feelings for them). The characters are distinct, memorable, and most importantly, fun. My favorite character was Zee, who is mysterious (to Cazo) yet powerful, and I'm most excited to read more about him in the next books.
I was particularly impressed with the author's setting and depiction of Seward City, which I can still picture in my head months after finishing the book. The descriptions of the various buildings and houses created vivid pictures of each scene (which is undoubtedly different from the author's intention, but that's the point, isn't it)? That said, I am excited for Cazo and Zee to leave the bubble of Seward City to explore the rest of the world!
Being an intersection of various genres, SnowMaker has something for everyone despite the varying expectations coming into reading the book. As a fantasy reader, I was fascinated by the magical, Prime elements of the story, which I definitely was hungry for more of and wish the mechanics of the magic played a more critical role in the plot. The romance in the book was largely unfamiliar to me, but I still found them surprisingly engaging.
I'm excited to learn more about the Prime Wranglers universe and forward to reading the next books in the series!
I was particularly impressed with the author's setting and depiction of Seward City, which I can still picture in my head months after finishing the book. The descriptions of the various buildings and houses created vivid pictures of each scene (which is undoubtedly different from the author's intention, but that's the point, isn't it)? That said, I am excited for Cazo and Zee to leave the bubble of Seward City to explore the rest of the world!
Being an intersection of various genres, SnowMaker has something for everyone despite the varying expectations coming into reading the book. As a fantasy reader, I was fascinated by the magical, Prime elements of the story, which I definitely was hungry for more of and wish the mechanics of the magic played a more critical role in the plot. The romance in the book was largely unfamiliar to me, but I still found them surprisingly engaging.
I'm excited to learn more about the Prime Wranglers universe and forward to reading the next books in the series!
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews