montanamomreads's reviews
734 reviews

In the Beautiful Dark by MELISSA. PAYNE

emotional hopeful 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

A heartfelt thank you to @melissapayne_writes, @getredpr, and @brillancepublishing for the incredible #gifted book and audiobook! 

These spirited seniors truly are the best! I found myself completely captivated by the characters.  

The story follows retired business owner Birdie Allen, who wrestles with a deep secret linked to her unrequited love, Allison, and the unsolved mystery of her death from fifty years ago. As memories resurface, Birdie becomes entangled in a web of recent murders and a woman's mysterious disappearance. With the support of her quirky friends at the Sunny Pines Retirement Community and the echoes of the past, Birdie embarks on a quest to unravel the truth behind her love’s tragic end. Will solving the mystery liberate her from decades of regret and allow her to fully embrace her life?

This book is a brilliant fusion of mystery and romance. The heartbreak and guilt that Birdie endures for half a century drew me in completely. I loved that Birdie is strong, with a wonderful heart.  I adored how the unique characters in the retirement community united to unravel the murders of these women, each carrying their own haunting stories. The way they shared their burdens as they worked together was truly moving. The reveal of the killer was nothing short of extraordinary and left me utterly astounded. I also loved the chapters narrated from Allison's perspective, as she and the other murdered girls observed the seniors' making headway in solving the murders.  

This book is an absolute gem, and the narration was simply outstanding. The narrators did a fantastic job bringing these vibrant characters to life.

If you enjoy a gripping mystery, a touch of murder, and a poignant love story intertwined with the wisdom of seniors, this book is a must-read. Mark your calendar for April 22, 2025—it's a date you won't want to miss!

The Gods Time Forgot by Kelsie Sheridan Gonzalez

dark 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

A heartfelt thank you to @kelsiegonzalez and @alcovebooks for the #gifted book!

This captivating time travel story drew me in.

Set in Manhattan in 1870, we meet Rua, a young woman who has lost all memories except for her name. Mistaken for the missing Emma Harrington, she cleverly navigates her new role to uncover her true identity. As she mingles with high society, she finds herself irresistibly drawn to Finn, the enigmatic Lord of Donore. Rua's memories slowly resurface, revealing a tangled past filled with dark magic and hidden secrets. Rua and Finn embark on a journey to uncover their fated connections.

This book was intriguing, and I particularly enjoyed Rua's boldness as she expressed her thoughts in the polished world of the New York elite. In contrast, her mother, Flossie, is far less pleasant, adding tension to the narrative. The story unfolds from the perspectives of Finn and Rua, and the chemistry between them is real. The gradual unveiling of their intertwined destinies kept me eagerly turning the pages. The integration of Irish mythology also added a fascinating layer, with a mystery element.

However, the ending felt slightly abrupt, which was a slight disappointment. I yearned for more details about Rua's sisters and the intriguing ways Mara communicated with them.

Overall, this was a captivating story. If you're a fan of time travel, Celtic mythology, or the Gilded Age, this book is an absolute must-read and will be available on April 8, 2025!

A Vow of Wrath and Ruin by K.W. Foster

adventurous 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

I want to sincerely thank @authorkwfoster for the incredible #gifted e-book!

Book 2 of the Mind Breaker series is nothing short of phenomenal!

Picking up right where we left off in *Curse of Breath and Blood*, we follow Aelia as she reunites with her sister, having freed her from the clutches of Gideon and Erissa. Together with Tharan and Caiden, Aelia sets out on a thrilling quest to locate the Trinity Wells before Gideon and Erissa do. These powerful wells hold the potential to resurrect the gods and plunge the world into chaos.

This fast-paced narrative is a heart-pounding race against time as the characters strive to outmaneuver their formidable foes. Aelia's strength and determination to overcome her past are truly inspiring, and the emotional turmoil of her love for two men adds rich layers to her character. We also delve deeper into Tharan's backstory and family dynamics, further enhancing the depth of the narrative.

The world-building is exquisite, immersing you in an intricately crafted universe filled with diverse courts, each brimming with unique themes and creatures. The magic system is nothing short of breathtaking, with each character playing an indispensable role in this epic tale.

The ending left me on the edge of my seat, eagerly anticipating the next installment to see how Aelia will confront the challenges that lie ahead.

If you adore romantasy, an enchanting world filled with magic and compelling characters, this book is an absolute must-read and will be available on April 8, 2025!

If Tomorrow Never Comes by Allison Ashley

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

4.0

I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to @authorallisonashley, @amazonpublishing, and @netgalley for the #gifted e-book!

This romance captivated me from the very first page. 

Elliott's journey begins the night before her stem cell transplant when she meets Jamie, the love of her life. Their connection is instant and deep, but just as quickly as she finds him, she disappears from his life. Fast forward over a year later, and their paths cross again, only to reveal a shocking twist: Jamie is now the boyfriend of her stem cell donor. Will they brave the complexities of their circumstances and pursue their undeniable feelings for one another?

This heartwarming story beautifully captures the essence of love at first sight. The character development is wonderfully executed as they navigate their emotions and grow closer. I particularly enjoyed the vibrant friendships surrounding them and the unwavering support from Jamie’s sister. Elliott's battle with leukemia, although she's in remission, adds a poignant layer to the narrative, highlighting her lingering fears. 

This book is a delightful blend of fun and heartfelt emotion. If you cherish romance that speaks to the heart and soul, then this is the perfect read for you!

Midnight in Soap Lake by Matthew Sullivan

dark mysterious tense 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

I want to thank @mickmatthew1 @htpbooks @htphive and @harlequinbooks for the #gifted book and audiobook.

This thriller is a gripping page-turner that captivated me from the very first chapter.

Set against the eerie backdrop of Soap Lake, Washington—a town steeped in dark urban legends—Abigail's life takes a frightening turn when she discovers a young boy covered in blood, shortly after his mother, Esme, is savagely murdered. As Abigail delves into the tragedy and investigates a series of mysterious deaths, she unwittingly draws the attention of dangerous forces and begins to unravel a complex web of conspiracies. She discovers there are deep secrets about the lake and the water that intertwine her with Esme.  This chilling narrative reveals that even the smallest of towns can harbor unsettling secrets.

The story unfolds through the intertwined perspectives of Esme and Abigail, offering deep insights into their lives. As Esme’s past is uncovered, we learn about her reasons for leaving the town after high school, adding layers of intrigue that connect her to Abigail. With a blend of a sinister local legend, science fiction elements, and the nuanced dynamics of small-town life, the suspense in this novel is nothing short of extraordinary. Each twist and turn keeps readers on the edge of their seats, while the richly drawn characters breathe life into the narrative. The science of the lake and the potential possibilities provide the secrets of this small town. 

The narrator’s outstanding performance brings the characters vividly to life, enhancing the already palpable eerie atmosphere of the town.

With its chilling ambiance, intricate mysteries, and unforgettable setting, this book is an essential read for anyone who enjoys unsettling thrillers and urban legends. Don’t miss out—mark your calendars for its release on April 15, 2025.

Firebird by Juliette Cross

adventurous dark 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

I want to thank @juliettecrossauthor @brambleromance and @macmillan.audio #MacAudio2025 for the #gifted audiobook.

From the moment Julian laid eyes on Malina dancing, he was captivated by her grace and beauty. Years later, fate would reunite them on the battlefield, where Julian stands as a legendary Roman general and formidable dragon shifter, a nephew to Caesar himself. When Malina is captured, Julian knows he cannot let her suffer. His feelings surge, igniting a passion that drives him to rescue her. Together, they discover their shared mission: to dismantle the cruel reign of Caesar and reclaim their world.

The world-building is truly remarkable, transporting readers to a reimagined Ancient Rome where gods and goddesses intermingle with the fierce mythology of dragon shifters. The concept of men shifting into dragons, or partially transforming, adds an exhilarating layer to the narrative. Malina's unique ability to manipulate the emotions of others is both intriguing and powerful. The story unfolds through the gripping dual perspectives of Malina and Julian, allowing readers to deeply connect with their journeys. 

While I found the ending somewhat lacking, yearning for a more epic battle to overthrow Caesar, the narrators delivered an outstanding performance, breathing life into these complex characters. Each narrator's distinct voice heightened the emotional stakes and made the tale truly compelling.

I eagerly anticipate the next installment in this captivating series. If you revel in tales of dragons, romance, and the tension of plotting against a tyrant, this book is a must-read. Mark your calendars for its release on April 8, 2025!

The Page Turner by Viola Shipman

emotional 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

I want to extend my gratitude to @viola_shipman @netgalley and @htpbooks for the #gifted e-book, and to @harlequinbooks for the #gifted audiobook.

This was a captivating read. I was fascinated by the story's exploration of finding one’s voice, as well as the themes of sisterhood and family connection.

Emma grows up feeling like an outsider in a family that elevates serious literature above all else. Her parents, esteemed authors and publishers of The Mighty Pages, look down on popular books, while her sister, Jess, wields significant influence with her sharp critiques. Inspired by her late grandmother’s treasured summer romances, Emma sets out to pen her own love story. When she uncovers a damaging secret hidden among her Gigi’s belongings, she realizes that someone else is already on the inside, aware of the truth. Emma faces a pivotal decision: confront her parents’ egos or risk exposing The Mighty Pages, potentially shattering their legacy.

Emma’s journey, her profound connection with Gigi, and the intricate family dynamics make this story truly unforgettable. The contrast between her relationships with her parents and sister, versus the extraordinary bond she shared with her beloved grandmother, adds so much depth. Additionally, the book offers a compelling glimpse into the world of publishing.

The narrator delivered an exceptional performance, vividly bringing these characters to life. I was particularly impressed by her intonation for Emma’s parents, perfectly capturing their highbrow demeanor.

If you’re searching for a quick, immersive read that draws you in and holds your attention until the last page, this book is a must-read. Mark your calendars—it's set to be published on April 8, 2025!

A Jane Austen Year by Jane Austen

informative inspiring medium-paced

5.0

I want to extend my deepest gratitude to the Jane Austen House, Batsford Books, and Austen Prose for the incredible gifted book and the stunning leather bookmark featuring the iconic Jane Austen house.

This year marks the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen’s birth, and this remarkable book offers a captivating glimpse into her life and that of her family. 

Each uniquely crafted page is filled with exquisite artwork, inspiring quotes, intriguing facts, delightful recipes, and cherished excerpts from her beloved novels. The book is thoughtfully organized into sections by the months of the year, allowing you to savor one chapter each month and truly immerse yourself in the beauty of her life and work.

I wholeheartedly recommend this enchanting book to anyone who adores Jane Austen, is fascinated by the Regency era, or simply appreciates exquisite literature. You won’t want to miss it!

𝕋𝕙𝕖 𝔸𝕦𝕤𝕥𝕖𝕟 ℍ𝕠𝕦𝕤𝕖:
The Hampshire cottage where she spent her last eight years. This museum features a unique collection of her treasures, including jewelry, personal letters, and rare first editions of her novels, along with the table where she wrote her iconic stories. As you stroll through the preserved rooms, you’ll connect with the atmosphere of 1816, experiencing the inspiration behind her work. Since opening in 1949, the site has become a global hub for celebrating Jane Austen’s literary legacy. Don’t miss the chance to delve into the life of one of literature's most beloved figures.

Where Shadows Meet: A Novel by Patrice Caldwell

adventurous dark 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

I want to thank @pncaldwell @stmartinspress for the #gifted e-book and @macmillan.audio #MacAudio2025 for the #gifted audiobook.

This book was truly captivating. I enhanced my reading experience by enjoying it alongside the audiobook for a fully immersive journey.

The narrative centers on Favre, who courageously sacrifices her wings for the love of Thana, a young goddess. However, Thana's choices ultimately lead her to destruction. Now, a thousand years later, Favre is determined to resurrect Thana, willing to go to any lengths to achieve it. Meanwhile, Layla, the princess of the vampire nation, embarks on a quest to find her best friend, risking the awakening of an ancient evil in the process.

As the first installment in an enthralling duology, this book offers a relatively quick yet deeply engaging read. The story unfolds from multiple perspectives and timelines, enriching the backstory of a world inhabited by gods, humans, and vampires. The pacing is steady, the writing flows seamlessly, and it keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The ending delivers a tantalizing cliffhanger that leaves you eager to discover what happens next.

If you're drawn to tales of vampires, gods, and intricate mysteries, this book is a must-read. Be sure to mark your calendars for its release on April 1, 2025!

Cover Story by Celia Laskey

emotional hopeful 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? Yes

4.0

 

I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to @celia.laskey @grandcentralpub and @BookSparks for the #gifted book as part of #WRC2025.

This compelling novel is set against the vibrant backdrop of Hollywood in 2005. It follows Ali, a queer publicist, who faces the daunting challenge of keeping the next big starlet, Cara, hidden in the closet as she embarks on a promotional tour for her romantic film. Despite Cara's initial resistance, the two women collaborate to maintain the facade, only to discover that their undeniable attraction might just be the change they both need.

This is far from a lighthearted romance. Ali's neurotic tendencies have intensified since the tragic loss of her partner, Natalie, and she is grappling with the weight of her grief. When Cara enters her life, Ali begins to feel a flicker of hope amidst her turmoil. The story also delves into her complex relationship with her father as they navigate the lingering effects of her mother’s bipolar disorder. Their eventual reconciliation, as they confront their shared struggles in caring for her mother, is both poignant and cathartic. Additionally, Ali's bond with her dog, Glen, adds a heartwarming touch to her journey.

Told through Ali's perspective, the novel intricately weaves her experiences with friends, work, and family. The exploration of the Hollywood landscape, where actors are often forced to conceal their true selves, is particularly thought-provoking and relevant.

If you appreciate emotionally charged stories about finding love after loss and discovering the strength to heal, this book is an absolute must-read. It's available now, so don't miss the opportunity to dive into this powerful narrative.