montanamomreads's reviews
699 reviews

Spells, Strings, and Forgotten Things by Breanne Randall

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? It's complicated

4.0

Thank you to @houseofrandall @randomhouse and @netgalley for the #gifted e-book and @prhaudio for the #gifted @audiobook!  

This enchanting read delivers a captivating blend of magic and sisterhood, marking the beginning of The Sisters of Light and Shadow series. 

Join the journey of three sisters—Calliope, Eurydice, and Thalia—as they navigate a fractured magical realm, fighting to save their town and each other. With the assistance of Lucien, a member of a rival coven to whom Calliope has forged a binding connection, secrets, magic, and buried memories come to light. 

The magic system is intricately crafted, the world-building is rich, and the character development is profound. What truly shines is the beautiful sisterly bond that weaves throughout the narrative. This intoxicating tale is not just a witchy romance; it envelops you in the charming atmosphere of a small town while delivering thrilling, action-packed magical scenes. The tension between Calliope and Lucien adds an irresistible enemies-to-lovers dynamic, layered with obstacles that their relationship must slowly overcome.

The narrator's performance is nothing short of exceptional, breathing life into each character, complete with a captivating French accent for Lucien and Eléa.

If you're seeking a delightful, small-town witchy tale, look no further—this book is a must-read. Mark your calendars for March 4, 2025; you won’t want to miss it!

Snapdragon by Elle Kish

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? It's complicated

5.0

Thank you to @ellekishauthor and @bookedwiththeemilys for the #gifted e-books!  

Traveler of Heart is the captivating first installment in a mesmerizing series. Follow Daphne as she navigates the heartbreaking loss of her husband, Wyatt, only to discover a beautiful mirror in their shop that serves as a portal to an enchanting world filled with magic, fae, and dragons. In this extraordinary realm, she encounters Silas and his loyal friends, embarking on an epic journey through the kingdom of Fracilonia. As Daphne uncovers her true identity and embraces her newfound self, she sets off an adventure with Silas and his crew, driven by the urgent desire to return to her children.

The prequel, Snapdragon, is a must-read after Traveler of Heart. This enchanting novella offers a deep dive into the romance between Wyatt and Daphne, presented through their alternating perspectives, enriching the emotional tapestry of the story.

I was utterly enchanted by both books, devouring them in a single day. The writing is stunning and brimming with genuine emotion. The slow-burn romance between Daphne and Silas is beautifully crafted, and the magical creatures, especially the majestic pegasi and adorable baby dragons, add a delightful charm to the narrative. Silas’ family and friends exhibit unwavering loyalty, supporting Daphne in her quest to find her way home. The unique magic system and the richly developed kingdoms are a testament to the author’s creativity. The cliffhanger at the end of Traveler of Heart left me yearning for more, eagerly anticipating what lies ahead.

If you crave adventure, dragons, magic, time travel and a touch of romance, look no further. Traveler of Heart is a treasure waiting to be discovered. The book is available now, and mark your calendars for Snapdragon, set to be released on March 14, 2025!

Traveler of Heart by Elle Kish

adventurous emotional informative 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

5.0

Thank you to @ellekishauthor and @bookedwiththeemilys for the #gifted e-books!  

Traveler of Heart is the captivating first installment in a mesmerizing series. Follow Daphne as she navigates the heartbreaking loss of her husband, Wyatt, only to discover a beautiful mirror in their shop that serves as a portal to an enchanting world filled with magic, fae, and dragons. In this extraordinary realm, she encounters Silas and his loyal friends, embarking on an epic journey through the kingdom of Fracilonia. As Daphne uncovers her true identity and embraces her newfound self, she sets off an adventure with Silas and his crew, driven by the urgent desire to return to her children.

The prequel, Snapdragon, is a must-read after Traveler of Heart. This enchanting novella offers a deep dive into the romance between Wyatt and Daphne, presented through their alternating perspectives, enriching the emotional tapestry of the story.

I was utterly enchanted by both books, devouring them in a single day. The writing is stunning and brimming with genuine emotion. The slow-burn romance between Daphne and Silas is beautifully crafted, and the magical creatures, especially the majestic pegasi and adorable baby dragons, add a delightful charm to the narrative. Silas’ family and friends exhibit unwavering loyalty, supporting Daphne in her quest to find her way home. The unique magic system and the richly developed kingdoms are a testament to the author’s creativity. The cliffhanger at the end of Traveler of Heart left me yearning for more, eagerly anticipating what lies ahead.

If you crave adventure, dragons, magic, time travel and a touch of romance, look no further. Traveler of Heart is a treasure waiting to be discovered. The book is available now, and mark your calendars for Snapdragon, set to be released on March 14, 2025!

The Teller of Small Fortunes by Julie Leong

lighthearted mysterious slow-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

3.0

Thank you to @julieleongbooks and @prhaudio for the #gifted audiobook.

This book presents a slow-paced and cozy narrative that invites readers into its enchanting world.

At its heart is Tao, a fortune teller who journeys between villages with her loyal mule, sharing small fortunes and wisdom. Along her travels, she encounters a diverse cast of characters: Mash, an ex-mercenary; Silt, a reformed thief; Kana, an aspiring baker; and a magical cat that adds an intriguing twist to their adventures. Together, they embark on a quest to find Mash’s missing daughter, nurturing both friendships and life lessons along the way.

While I enjoyed the unfolding story, I sometimes struggled to connect deeply with the characters. The writing is rich and occasionally poetic, yet certain sections felt uneven, with some moments dragging on a bit longer than necessary.

The narrator does an admirable job of capturing the story's mood, instilling an atmospheric depth that enhances the listening experience, though there were times when the narration became monotonous during slower passages, which affected my engagement.

Overall, this audiobook is a delightful choice for those who appreciate introspective tales filled with found family and life lessons. If you’re in search of something meditative and heartwarming, this book is an excellent fit—perfect for anyone who enjoys a bit of magic at a leisurely pace.

The Other March Sisters by Ally Malinenko, Linda Epstein, Liz Parker

reflective slow-paced

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

3.0

Thank you to @lindaepsteinauthor @allymalinenko @lizparkerwrites @kensingtonbooks and @netgalley for the #gifted e-book!  

As a child, Little Women held a special place in my heart, so I was eagerly anticipating this new release that delves into the lives of Beth, Meg, and Amy. Each sister's story is crafted by each one of the talented authors, drawing inspiration from the real life of Louisa May Alcott and her sisters. 

In this captivating narrative, Jo embarks on an adventure in New York, while Amy fervently perfects her artistic skills and searches for the right husband in Europe. Meg, though married and a mother of twins, seeks a deeper purpose beyond her roles as wife and mother, and Beth confronts her illness at a tender age with remarkable strength. 

The authors weave together each sister's story, creating a reading experience that truly brings the characters to life. The sisters individual journeys are distinct yet interconnected, allowing readers to witness their personal struggles and triumphant moments. Through the heartfelt letters exchanged between the sisters, we gain invaluable insight into their relationships and the depth of their shared hopes and fears. I found the negative portrayal of Marmee, especially her relationship with Meg, somewhat disappointing.  

If you're longing for a exploration of the untold stories of the March sisters, look no further. This book is set to be published on February 25, 2025.

Follow Me to Africa by Penny Haw

adventurous informative inspiring 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? It's complicated

5.0

Thank you to the @pennyhaw and @bookmarked for the #gifted book.

I am an avid fan of historical fiction, and this book offers an enthralling and unique setting—the breathtaking Serengeti plains of Tanzania.

Spanning 50 years, the narrative follows seventeen-year-old Grace as she embarks on an archaeological dig with her father. There, she encounters the remarkable Dr. Mary Leakey, who defied the odds to become an archaeologist in the 1930s without formal education. As their stories intertwine, Mary recognizes her own struggles in Grace, and through Mary’s wisdom and encouragement, Grace discovers her true place in the world.

This captivating tale, based on the extraordinary life of Dr. Mary Leakey—a pioneering British paleontologist—delves into her passionate love affair with Louis Leakey, a fellow archelogistand her deep affection for Africa and illustration. Dr. Leakey discovered many fossils during her work in Africa.  During her career she discovered fifteen new species of animals.  Her illustrations were also featured in her husband's work as well as others.  

The author’s vivid descriptions of the stunning landscapes, majestic animals, and vibrant cultures transport you right into this enchanting world. The dual timeline that reveals pivotal moments from Mary’s life, starting at the age of seventeen in 1930 is captivating.  We follow her journey with her mother after losing her father, her meeting with Louis, and her relentless pursuit of becoming an archaeologist, all interwoven with Grace’s parallel journey of loss and self-discovery. 

This masterful blend of fiction and fact not only brings Mary and her groundbreaking work to life, but also resonates deeply with themes of resilience and personal growth. 

If you cherish historical fiction enriched by stunning scenery, this book is an absolute must-read. Mark your calendars for its release on February 25, 2025!

The Paradise Problem by Christina Lauren

challenging emotional funny 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 to @christinalauren and @gallerybooks for the #gifted book.

This delightful story is a perfect blend of humor and heartwarming moments that had me laughing out loud time and time again.

Anna and Liam make the unconventional decision to marry for student housing benefits. However, after Liam graduates, Anna mistakenly believes she’s signed divorce papers. Fast forward three years, and Liam reappears, asking Anna to play the role of his fake wife for his sister’s upcoming wedding. What Anna doesn’t realize is that Liam comes from an obnoxiously wealthy family. As they journey to a luxurious private island for the wedding, chaos and comedy ensue.

Anna is a fantastic character—strong, courageous, confident, and unafraid to express her opinions. Her fearless nature inspires Liam to confront his family and stand up to his father. The evolution of the romance between Anna and Liam is both beautiful and sweet, punctuated by their hilarious, witty banter. The dysfunctional family dynamics are vividly portrayed, adding depth to the narrative. The author’s descriptive writing brings the enchanting private island to life, creating a paradise that feels almost perfect, except for the drama.

If you’re a fan of romantic comedies, this book is an absolute must-read for the beach or any sunny day. Don't miss out—grab the paperback when it releases on February 25, 2025!

The Mountains Between Us by Imogen Martin

adventurous challenging emotional 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 to @imogenmartinauthor @stormbooks_co @netgalley for the #gifted e-book.

The captivating journey of James and Grace from The Wild Horizon series unfolds against the backdrop of California during the wild gold rush of 1848. After being mysteriously discharged from the army, James carries a heavy burden, one he has yet to reveal to Grace. While they initially plan to visit Grace's brothers in Oregon, James makes a pivotal decision to venture southward to California in quest for fortune. What begins as an adventure filled with hope quickly spirals into heartache, challenging the very foundation of their marriage.

I loved the first book and the journey of Grace and James on the Oregon trail.  This story beautifully illustrates a transformation from heartbreak to triumph, showcasing Grace as a remarkable female character who defies the norms of her time. In an era when women's voices were often silenced, she exhibits incredible strength and unwavering support for James, even as he grapples with his inner turmoil alone. The moment he finally opens up about his struggles is profoundly poignant, deepening the emotional connection between them.

The vivid portrayal of the California gold rush era, alongside the hardships faced by settlers, adds to the story and brings to life California's evolution into the 31st state. The writing is exquisite, capturing both the breathtaking landscapes and the complex emotions of the characters. The theme of Providence weaves throughout the narrative, adding layers of depth and meaning.

If you're a fan of historical fiction intertwined with a compelling love story, this book is an absolute must-read. Mark your calendars—it's set to be released on February 18, 2025!

The Librarians of Lisbon by Suzanne Nelson

informative mysterious slow-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

 A heartfelt thank you to @suzannenelsonbooks @zandoprojects and @netgalley for the #gifted e-book!  

This is an enthralling historical novel set against the backdrop of World War II, immersing you in the intrigue of espionage.

Bea and Selene, two resourceful librarians and steadfast friends, are enlisted by US Intelligence to infiltrate a complex spy network in Lisbon. As they navigate this treacherous world, they independently seek to uncover informants working with the Germans, all the while experiencing unexpected romance with the men aiding their mission.

This story is a riveting blend of fast-paced narrative and nail-biting suspense, enriched by the mystery surrounding the identities of the informants. Selene’s fearless confidence contrasts beautifully with Bea’s reserved caution, creating a dynamic friendship that enhances the plot. The dual perspectives deepen the reader’s connection to both characters. As Selene teams up with Luca and Bea with Gable, the fragile trust they forge is put to the ultimate test.

The author’s meticulous research shines through, and the closing note provides compelling insights into Portugal’s neutrality during the war and its profound impact on the lives of those seeking refuge there.

If you cherish gripping historical spy fiction, this is an absolute must-read! 

Battle of the Bookstores by Ali Brady

emotional funny hopeful lighthearted 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? It's complicated

5.0

Thank you to @alibradybooks @berkleypub @berkleyromance @netgalley for the #gifted e-book.

This is my first novel by these authors, but it certainly won’t be my last.

In a charming neighborhood, Josie and Ryan each run their own bookstores on the same street. When the owner decides to merge their beloved shops, they find themselves in a fierce competition for the coveted manager position. Both harbor deep insecurities that come to the surface as their rivalry intensifies. Unbeknownst to them, however, they've already forged a connection as friends in an online community forum. What starts as a battle of wits and will becomes an unexpected journey from enemies to friends—and ultimately to lovers.

This heartwarming romance is a delightful exploration of love and vulnerability. Josie and Ryan grapple with their own fears while passionately defending their favorite book genres. The palpable chemistry between them is undeniable from their very first encounter, only deepening as they navigate their complex relationship. I particularly enjoyed the witty banter during their competition, which added an engaging layer to the story. The dual points of view invite readers into their innermost thoughts, revealing their fears and desires.

What makes this story even more special is its homage to indie bookstores—the magic of literature, the challenges of running a bookstore, and the powerful sense of community that comes from a shared love of reading. 

If you’re searching for a sweet, captivating story that will ensnare your heart and keep you hooked until the very last page, look no further.