montanamomreads's reviews
603 reviews

The Love Elixir of Augusta Stern by Lynda Cohen Loigman

adventurous mysterious medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

Thank you to @netgalley, @stmartinspress, and @lloigman for the gifted e-book. Thank you to Macmillan Audio @macmillanaudio #MacAudio2024 for the gifted audiobook.

This enchanting tale is skillfully woven through dual timelines, transporting you from 1920s New York to 1987 Florida. Augusta's unwavering determination to pursue her passion for pharmacy, coupled with her fascination with her aunts' potion-making skills, makes her a truly compelling character. The poignant love story between Augusta and Irving unfolds seamlessly across the two timelines, keeping you hooked until the very end. The supporting characters add humor and warmth to the narrative, making it a truly delightful read.

I had the pleasure of experiencing this story through its narration, and the narrator's skillful delivery brought the characters to life in a way that truly enhanced the storytelling. Her voice and pacing were absolutely perfect.

If you're a fan of magical, heartfelt stories, I highly recommend this book! The book will be available on October 8. 

The Crescent Moon Tearoom by Stacy Sivinski

adventurous emotional mysterious medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

Thank you to @netgalley, @atriabooks, and @stacy_sivinski for the gifted e-book.

This captivating debut novel is an enchanting blend of cozy atmosphere and witchy charm. From the very first page, I found myself utterly spellbound by the entwined lives of the three sisters as they embarked on a journey of self-discovery. The portrayal of their bond unraveling as they pursued their individual destinies was both poignant and mesmerizing. The addition of the enchanted house, attuned to their emotions, added an extra layer of magic to the story.

The author's skillful writing brought the teas and their meanings to life, making them almost tangible for the reader. The delightful tea cup illustrations and the tea reading interpretations at the beginning of each chapter were a delightful touch that added depth to the narrative.

If you're a fan of cozy, witchy tales, I wholeheartedly recommend immersing yourself in the enchanting world of this book. It's a truly bewitching read that will leave you longing for more.

Letters in the Attic by Meredith Lindsey

adventurous mysterious medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

Thank you to the author for the gifted audiobook.  

Reading this book was a captivating experience. It had it all - fantasy, magic realism, romance, mystery, and murder, all expertly woven together. The magical letters that appeared to Cami in the attic completely drew me into the story, and as she meets the author, Z, she discovers a world of witches living in the cursed woods. The romance and the mystery of the young girls being murdered in the woods added so much depth to the plot.

The characters were so well-developed, and the dynamics between Cami and her mom, as well as her high school friends, were incredibly engaging. I definitely didn't see the twist and the ending coming – it completely blew my mind. This YA novel was written so well that it kept me on the edge of my seat as the romance and thriller elements unfolded.

The narrator of the audiobook did a superb job of bringing the characters to life. Her tone and pace were just perfect.

The book is already available, and the audiobook will be available on most listening platforms starting October 31st. You won't want to miss out on this gripping story!

Mistress of Lies by K.M. Enright

mysterious slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.0

Thank you to @orbitbooks_us and the author for the gifted book and @hachetteaudio for the free audiobook.

I couldn't wait to dive into this book because the premise sounded incredibly captivating. However, I was disappointed to find that it didn't quite meet my expectations. The story kicks off with a thrilling assassination as Shan takes down the King, her own father. But after that explosive start, the pace slows down, and the plot loses some of its momentum. The characters tasked with investigating the murders seem more interested in partying than solving the case.

The magic system in the book is undeniably fascinating, particularly the dynamic between the blooded and unblooded, representing the elite and the working class. Yet, the world-building fell short, and the story needed to unfold quicker. The writing lacked vivid descriptions and felt tiresome at times.

On a positive note, the narrator's tone and pacing were commendable. Her accent added an extra layer of enjoyment to the listening experience. 

Based on other reviews, you either loved it or thought it was ok  I leave it up to you, the reader, to decide. This book is available now. 

A Tribute of Fire by Sariah Wilson

adventurous informative mysterious medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

Thank you, @literarymediatours, @sariahwilsonauthor, and Montlake Publishing for #gifted book and being part of the book tour.

I couldn't put it down from page one. The characters drew me in, and the plot kept me on the edge of my seat. The story's foundation in Greek mythology was brilliantly executed. Lia's unwavering strength and determination as she fought to save her nation were truly captivating. The dynamic between Lia and Jason, the sailor, was enchanting and the romance swoon-worthy.  The writing was seamless, and the attention to detail was extraordinary. I admired Lia's reliance on her sisters in the temple, finding strength in their bond.

The shocking twists and betrayals at the end of the book left me reeling and yearning for the sequel. How will these betrayals impact Lia, Jason, and her sisters?

If you're a fan of fantasy with a touch of romance and Greek mythology, mark your calendar for November 1st. This book is a must-read! 

The Christmas Inn by Pamela Kelley

inspiring lighthearted relaxing medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

Thank you to Macmillan Audio @macmillanaudio #MacAudio2024 and @pamelamkelley for the gifted audiobook.

This delightful book felt like it could be a Hallmark movie come to life! Riley loses her job right before the holidays and returns home to help her mom manage the inn. Little did she know that this move would lead her to rekindle her romance with her high school sweetheart, Aiden, and rediscover the true meaning of family. Set in a charming small town during Christmas, this heartwarming happily ever after will surely capture your heart.

The rich descriptions of the town, the inn, the food, and the characters are so vivid that they transport you right into the story. The narrator did an outstanding job of bringing Riley, Aiden, and all the other characters to life. This is the second book I've listened to with Stephanie as the narrator, and her tone and pace were absolutely perfect.

If you're a fan of second-chance romance and holiday cheer, this book is an absolute must-read! 

All to Pieces by Susan Henshaw

emotional funny hopeful inspiring medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

Thank you, @bookedwiththeemilys and @susanhenshawauthor, for #gifted book and part of the book tour.

I just finished reading the the third book in the Seddledown Series, and I have to say, it completely captivated me. The story of Anna and Blue, high school sweethearts who take different paths only to find their way back to each other, is both heart-wrenching and heartwarming. The alternating perspectives of Anna and Blue allowed me to truly empathize with their struggles and triumphs. I found myself laughing at the outrageousness of Anna's family and friends, shedding tears at the heartbreak they endured, and feeling the urge to shake some sense into them at times.

Susan's writing skillfully blends poignancy and humor, making the characters feel incredibly real and relatable. The first two Seddledown books were fantastic, but this third installment took the series to a whole new level. I'm eagerly anticipating Susan's next book, which will focus on Anna's Uncle Ashton.

If you're a fan of romance, I can't recommend this book enough. It's an emotional rollercoaster that you won't want to get off. Go ahead and grab your copy today – you won't regret it!

Betrayal at Blackthorn Park by Julia Kelly

adventurous mysterious medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

Thank you to NetGalley, St. Martins Press and the author for the gifted e-book.  Thank you to Macmillan Audio @macmillanaudio #MacAudio2024 for the gifted audiobook.

This is the second book in the Parisian Orphan series.  The story follows Evelyne Redfern as she embarks on her first mission after returning from field agent training. Teaming up with her former partner David Poole, they find themselves entangled in a murder investigation during what was supposed to be a routine security check.

The author's storytelling is so gripping, and the way the characters and the plot unfold kept me on the edge of my seat. The hint of a budding romance between Evelyne and David adds a thrilling layer to the narrative, and the unexpected twist at the end left me craving for more.

I listened to the audiobook while I simultaneously read the book. Marisa Calin's narration was absolutely superb. Her performance added depth and personality to the characters, making the experience even more immersive.

If you're a fan of historical fiction with a mystery, mark your calendars for October 1st, because this book is a must-read! Trust me, you don't want to miss out on this thrilling adventure.

Rewitched by Lucy Jane Wood

adventurous lighthearted mysterious slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

Thank you to Berkley Publishing, NetGalley, and the talented author for the gifted e-book!

This enchanting tale is brimming with cozy witchy vibes that had me spellbound from start to finish. The magical system and characters are utterly captivating, especially Bella's empowering journey as she embraces her magical prowess. Artorius's role in helping Bella unlock her potential added an extra layer of charm to the story, keeping me hooked with its mystery and intrigue. 

 While the book starts off a bit slow as the author sets the stage, the world-building and character development only add to the enchantment. My only wish was for more insight into the relationship between Bella and Rune, her protector. 

 If you're a fan of witches and magic, this book is an absolute must-read! Grab your copy now and get ready to be bewitched!

The Serial Killer Guide to San Francisco by Michelle Chouinard

adventurous lighthearted mysterious medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

Thank you to Macmillan Audio @macmillanaudio #MacAudio2024 and @mmchouinard for the gifted audiobook.

I was completely captivated by this book. The storyline and characters were absolutely engaging. Capri's character and her quest to solve her mother-in-law’s murder, intertwined with her grandfather's case, kept me hooked. Although the relationship with her dad was a bit heartbreaking, I admired her determination to uncover the truth. 

The narrator's delivery was exceptional, drawing me in with her tone and pace. 

If you enjoy a mystery with a lighthearted touch, I wholeheartedly recommend this book.