What Happens in Montana - captivating friendship and secrets read

What Happens in Montana by Kim McCollum is a captivating story about friendship, secrets, and the unexpected ways our past shapes us. Set at a retreat in Montana, the novel alternates between multiple points of view, including that of Simone, a ghost haunting the property. Along with the various points of view, the story unfolds with shifting timelines, weaving Simone’s tragic history with the present-day struggles of four women facing midlife.

 

At first, I had a little trouble connecting with the characters. The women were once close friends when their children were babies but have grown apart, over the years. As the story opens, their kids are ready to head off to college and one of the women, Brooke, plans a reunion at an old hot springs resort in Montana. At first, I felt like an outsider at a reunion, not quite knowing who everyone was. But as the story unfolded I got to know them better and started to appreciate the depth of their relationships and struggles. What initially felt like a story full of strangers soon turned into a rich narrative about women facing personal challenges and rediscovering the bonds that once held the friends together.

 

BookHookup Review: What Happens in Montana

⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

I’m typically not a fan of novels told from multiple viewpoints, as they often get muddled and confusing. It kept me off kilter at the start, but as the story progressed McCollum executed this structure flawlessly, giving each character a unique perspective that enriched the story rather than detracting from it.

I enjoyed how McCollum layered in seemingly trivial details that later proved unexpectedly significant, adding depth and complexity to the plot. The inclusion of the ghost Simone, a young woman murdered decades ago, is a brilliant touch, as is the character of Maude, the elderly, often cantankerous chef at the retreat. If I were to choose a favorite character in this story, it would be Maude. She is the uniting force that brings the story into a cohesive narrative. Through her, McCollum adds another layer, telling the story of three distinct generations of women.

Without giving away spoilers, it's clear that McCollum is subtly addressing the pressures placed on women—both physical and emotional—across different periods. I appreciated that the messages about society and women’s roles are woven into the narrative naturally, without being preachy or heavy-handed. McCollum manages to be pro-female without being anti-male, offering an affirming, empowering message that feels honest and heartfelt.

The emotional journey these women take, from confronting long-held secrets to rediscovering the importance of friendship, is powerful. The supernatural element of Simone’s ghost adds intrigue and mystery, but at its core, this is a story about real women facing the challenges of life, love, and change.

What Happens in Montana is an enjoyable, thought-provoking read that expertly balances character-driven storytelling with a touch of the supernatural. If you’re a fan of novels that explore complex relationships, personal growth, and a bit of ghostly intrigue, this book is well worth picking up. I’m happy to give it 4 out of 5 stars.

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As BookHookup, I am a longtime book reviewer. I received a free review copy of this book from Black Coffee Book Tours and have not received compensation for reviewing or recommending it. Some links in this post are affiliate links. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to amazon.com and affiliate sites. 

A Discovery of Time and Space: A Mixed Review

Lesley L. Smith's A Discovery of Time and Space presents a thought-provoking premise wrapped in a science fiction tale that blends time travel, self-discovery, and friendship. The story centers on Tiffani Taylor, a college student at the University of Colorado, who finds herself in a bewildering situation when she wakes up in a crosswalk, aided by an older woman who looks eerily like her. From that moment, Tiffani's world begins to unravel, revealing that she may not just be an ordinary student with ADHD—she might possess the rare ability to travel throughout time and space.

BookHookup Review: A Discovery of Time and Space

⭐⭐⭐☆☆

The plot is engaging and certainly kept me turning the pages. Tiffani’s journey, alongside her three best friends, Rory, Lin, and Ethan, is intriguing as they try to uncover the mysteries surrounding her powers. The twists, the puzzles surrounding her identity, and the potential multiverse she’s navigating all contribute to a storyline that has the potential to be exciting for fans of time travel and science fiction.

However, the novel does have its flaws. Tiffani and her friends, while endearing in their loyalty and wit, often feel like they are behaving more like junior high students than twenty-somethings. This disjointed age portrayal was a bit jarring, as their dialogue and actions often came across as immature for their age. Another issue for me was redundancy. In particular, Tiffani's internal thoughts, followed immediately by her saying the same thing aloud, felt repetitive and detracted from the narrative. Additionally, certain details—like dorm rules and Tiffani’s condition—were repeated multiple times, which slowed the pacing. A little tighter editing could have helped eliminate these redundancies and sharpened the pacing.

Despite these critiques, the author's execution of the time travel and multiverse elements is impressive. Smith’s ability to weave complex ideas without bogging the reader down in scientific jargon is a major strength. The plot is carefully constructed, and the time travel logic is well-thought-out. I was especially intrigued by the concept of "future selves" meeting their present counterparts—a neat idea that adds depth to the world-building.

While A Discovery of Time and Space does an excellent job with its core concept and the time travel elements, the disjointed age portrayal of the characters and the occasional repetitiveness detract from the overall experience. I would rate it 3 out of 5 stars. It's worth the read, and I’d pick up the next book in the series to check it out. Fans of time travel stories and college settings will likely find it a fun read, but those looking for deeper character development may find it lacking.

A Kestrel Circles - Smith's storytelling is nothing short of brilliant

An unpredictable, thrilling ride into the mind of a gifted detective, A Kestrel Circles is a brilliant blend of suspense, mystery, and fascinating character exploration.

G. Michael Smith's A Kestrel Circles is nothing short of captivating. From the very first page, the novel pulls readers into an intricate world where the boundaries of reality, perception, and intellect blur in the most engaging ways. The protagonist, Mathew Brown (also known as Augustus Cervantes), is a unique and eccentric character whose unusual abilities—specifically, his skill to "find anything" through his mind's eye, which he calls "the canvas"—form the heart of this deeply compelling story.

About the Book: A Kestrel Circles

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Initially, I found myself a little disoriented, much like stepping into a foreign language that has a few recognizable words but no clear context. It was a deliberate and purposeful confusion, however, as the narrative unfolds in the voice of Mathew, whose perspective seems disjointed yet strangely profound. At times, I wondered if I was witnessing the world through the eyes of someone with autism, struggling with communication but gifted in ways that elude the average person. Soon, however, I was fully invested in Mathew's world, eager to decode his thoughts and understand the significance of the "canvas" that guides him through his life.

What truly elevates this novel is how Smith introduces Mathew’s detective work. As an adult, Mathew has been largely written off by those around him—particularly his overbearing mother—who thinks him incapable of independent survival. Yet, Mathew is far from ordinary. His ability to navigate the chaos of the world through his strange mental lens becomes his superpower. The transition from a seemingly fragile individual to an extraordinary detective is flawlessly executed. As Mathew embarks on his latest case, the search for a missing pocket watch, the suspense escalates to dizzying heights.

BookHookup Review: A Kestrel Circles

Smith's storytelling is nothing short of brilliant. The multi-layered plot keeps readers on the edge of their seats, filled with unexpected twists and turns. The idea of the "canvas," a metaphorical space that Mathew uses to process information, provides a unique and almost surreal quality to the narrative. It’s as if we are peering into a Wonderland of his mind, where logic meets mystery and every puzzle is a challenge to unravel. It’s in these moments that the book truly shines, taking on an almost dreamlike quality as Mathew races to uncover the truth.

As the plot unfolds, Mathew finds himself entangled in a cat-and-mouse chase across Europe, pursued not only by criminals but also by his own sense of foreboding about the case. The stakes rise as he uncovers deeper secrets about the missing watch, and the tension builds toward a gripping conclusion. What’s remarkable is that, despite his incredible abilities, Mathew is not infallible—his humanity is woven into every page, making him a character you can't help but care about.

Minor details, like a brief confusion over a character’s name and the unresolved fate of a pizza delivery man, didn’t detract from the overall enjoyment of the novel. These are mere blips in an otherwise stellar narrative. And while the book does contain some profanity and mild violence, it never feels gratuitous—just an authentic reflection of the stakes Mathew faces.

In a literary landscape full of formulaic thrillers, A Kestrel Circles stands out as something unique and thought-provoking. It’s a novel that demands to be experienced, one that will leave readers eager for more. With its unpredictable plot, compelling lead, and the tantalizing mystery that lingers long after the final page, this book is a must-read for fans of intelligent thrillers.

I would rate it a solid 5 out of 5, and I’m certainly hoping for a sequel that continues Mathew’s journey.

Warning: Profanity, mild violence.

 

The Serpant Woman - a thought-provoking crime novel

S.Z. Estavillo delivers another gripping, page-turning thriller in The Serpent Woman, the second book in the Serpent Series. Having been blown away by the first book, The Serpent’s Bridge, I eagerly dove into this sequel—and it did not disappoint. Once again, Estavillo combines a tight, complex plot with deeply developed characters and an intense emotional core that keeps the reader hooked from start to finish.

About the Book: The Serpent Woman

At the heart of the story is LAPD Detective Anaya Nazario and FBI Supervising Special Agent Blake Huxley, who must team up to track down a dangerous and enigmatic serial killer known as The Serpent Woman. As the body count rises, Nazario and Huxley are forced to confront not only the complexity of the case, but also their own complicated relationship. The killer herself is a fascinating and multi-dimensional character—at once a victim and a vigilante—making it easy for readers to sympathize with her, even as they recognize the horror of her actions. Estavillo’s ability to make us care about such a morally ambiguous character is a testament to her skill as a writer.

The mystery is tantalizingly intricate. The Serpent Woman leaves behind disturbing evidence at each crime scene—folders containing classified documents, criminal records, and other revealing materials—that add layers of intrigue to the investigation. As Nazario’s sharp instincts and keen eye begin to unravel the puzzle, the story keeps readers guessing. The cast of suspects is well-crafted, each with their own believable motivations and alibis, creating a web of uncertainty that keeps the pages turning in anticipation.

The stakes are high, not just for the characters, but for the reader as well. The story raises fascinating questions about justice, morality, and revenge, forcing the characters—and us—to wrestle with who truly deserves justice: the killer or her victims? This is a case that is anything but straightforward, and the resolution, while surprising, feels earned and satisfying.

BookHookup Review: The Serpent Woman

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

One of the standout elements of The Serpent Woman is Estavillo’s characterization. From Nazario’s no-nonsense approach to her investigations to the endearing bond between Von Schlange and her loyal canine sidekick Zeus, the characters feel alive and real. The relationship between Von and Zeus adds a unique emotional layer to the story, blending action and tenderness in a way that enhances the overall reading experience. The dynamics between the characters are multifaceted, and their personal struggles add depth to the already intricate crime story.

The book does come with a warning for sensitive readers, as it contains graphic content including violence, abuse, and sexual themes that are central to the case at hand. However, Estavillo handles these difficult subjects with care and respect, ensuring that they serve the narrative rather than shock for shock’s sake.

In conclusion, The Serpent Woman is a thrilling, thought-provoking crime novel that expertly blends suspense with character-driven storytelling. The intricate plot, complex characters, and moral dilemmas make it an exceptional read. If you’re a fan of crime fiction with strong, multi-dimensional leads and a relentless pace, this is a book you won’t want to miss. I’m already looking forward to the next installment in the Serpent Series. Highly recommended!

The Hangman's Master: Historical fantasy with a supernatural twist

As a fan of Elyse Hoffman’s books, I was eager to dive into The Hangman's Master. However, I did find myself struggling to fully engage with the plot at first. It took me about a quarter of the way into the book to really connect with the story. Since I’ve only read the first two books in the series (The Vengeance of Samuel Val and Black Fox One), I think I was still getting reacquainted with the world and some new characters (though I did recognize a few from books one and two). That being said, once I got past that initial hurdle, I couldn’t put the book down.

BookHookup Review: The Hangman's Master

⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

The main character, Stefan Harkel, is brilliantly complex—someone you can both love and hate at the same time. His internal conflict and growth throughout the story make him one of the most intriguing protagonists I’ve encountered in Hoffman’s work. The plot itself is unpredictable, with twists that kept me on the edge of my seat. As with Hoffman's style, the ending is satisfying yet leaves just enough open to make you eager for more.

 

The Hangman's Master is a historical fantasy that blends the horrors of WWII with a supernatural twist. It touches on themes of vengeance, redemption, and power, all wrapped in Hoffman’s signature gripping writing. It’s a captivating and dark read, and I’d recommend it to fans of historical fiction with a supernatural twist, as well as those who enjoy complex characters and unpredictable plots.

Warnings:

• Profanity
• Sexual themes (not graphic)

Rewriting Success: Lillian Brummet on the Art of Evolving Books and Building Reader Engagement (Part 2)

This is part 2 of 2 with award-winning poet, author, blogger, and entrepreneur Lillian Brummet. She joins us to discuss how she’s rewritten the narrative of her own career, from the healing power of poetry to evolving her books for lasting success. Lillian also reflects on Poetic Wanderings, a collection of her father-in-law's poetry, which she and her husband published as a tribute to his life. Learn more about Lillian’s creative journey, explore her blogs, and discover her books via this link, or visit her Amazon page.

 

BookHookup: With so many projects in the pipeline, including Poetic Wanderings and the upcoming memoir collection, how do you manage your time and prioritize tasks?

We do so with a plan–an organized but flexible action plan that will walk us through each step, eventually leading to our goals. We allowed for 1 year of promotional activities after releasing Poetic Wanderings. During that timeframe, promotional activities were balanced with getting the memoir (Down The Road) readied for publication. When it is published, our attention will be redirected to promotional activities for 6 months, before we are ready to release the next book... or take on the next major project.

I like to space out the project or product release dates to allow for appropriate promotions to take place. Creating space in the action plan also allows us to maintain other business services and activities, like managing the blogs and channel.  

 

BookHookup: How do you maintain consistency in your writing voice and quality when working on multiple projects simultaneously?

Scheduling is the solution. We get anywhere from 20,000 to 240,000 visits per month on Brummet's Conscious Blog, so I will prioritize 80% of my time to create content for a short period. When I have generated enough content to last several months ahead, I can relax and focus on creating content for the other blog.

The Drum It With Brummet blog does not take as long to schedule content for several months in advance. So we will focus on that project for just a couple of weeks. At that point, I am ready to create 7-10 videos for the Brummet Media Channel, which I can accomplish in just a couple of days. Once I have all the content scheduled for publication on those 3 platforms I can relax; I can go back to focusing on either writing the next book, querying new markets, or creating promotional opportunities depending on the action plan.

 

BookHookup : What challenges have you faced during the update and republishing process?

I felt the logistics and data analysis tasks were wearying and draining. However, now that I have learned the formula I feel the process will be easier in the future. I mean, we really had to plan what CTA's and which tools to use for improved read through and reader engagement. That took a lot of time, a lot of research, a lot of mentors helping us out before we got the hang of it and decided which ones to use for each audience. It got easier with each book we updated and we have learned how to improve upcoming publications giving them a better chance at success from the get-go.

 

BookHookup: Can you tell us more about the upcoming memoir collection, Down The Road?

This is a passion project honoring Dave's family ancestors (the Brummet clan). It shares 3 generations of memoirs. It starts with Dave's grandmother who writes in broken English, as an elderly woman looking back on her life beginning with her childhood memories of a rural Romanian village to her journey to Canada where she met her new husband and his children. She tells about witnessing a suicide, a neighbor who was murdered on the farm nearby, and raising her children. Her intense religious upbringing intensifies as she ages and becomes her main focus before her passing. 

Her eldest son, Dave's Uncle (Tony Brummet), started his career as a high school principal and later became an Education Minister and then Environment Minister within the Canadian government. His biography is included, sharing the impact of his father's death on his childhood.

Dave's father, (Frank Brummet), also shares his life experiences growing up during the depression, sharing how various spots around the Okanagan (BC, Canada) got their names, stories of early settler families from that area, and his personal experiences re: being a father, grieving a wife and facing the end of his own life–he shares it all.

To complete the story... Dave and I are publishing all of this in one book: Down The Road (November 2024).

 

BookHookup: What are you most excited about in the release of the backyard garden guidebook and the short story collection?

Well the garden guidebook is a personal bucket list project. It captures 3 generations of education and experience–master gardeners who really know their stuff... or "knew" their stuff, since everyone but us are passed on now. We felt it was important to share this now that they have passed, especially now that Dave and I have downsized and are not gardening like we once were. Gardening is coming back again and people are struggling with finding ways to reduce the workload, conserve water, increase variety, get better nutrition and learn what to do with those harvests too. So we put a plan together for them. From One Small Yard is in rough draft manuscript stage, but will act like a "sister" or companion to the FromOne Small Garden cookbook. 

Fiction is where we really want to head next... and so the short story collection is a way to introduce readers to our fiction. I'm super excited about releasing this one too!

 

BookHookup: How has the relocation transition period affected your work, and what strategies have you used to get back on track?

As we aged it became too heavy to bear the financial and physical burden of running a 1,900 sq. ft. home, the large yard, edible landscaping and 10 raised garden beds. The business was gaining speed and our upcoming projects were weighing us down. We decided to pursue a semi-retirement lifestyle, slowly transitioning Dave from his former "day job" to working the business from home full time.

Downsizing to a smaller home in a retirement community meant we had to shut down the office for a few months in order to accommodate the transition. Once we started up the office again I felt totally overwhelmed and depressed, actually exhausted, by all that needed to be done. I felt so far behind–that there was so much to do, that I didn't even want to face it. Instead of letting myself feel defeated before I even started–we decided to create a simple list of things that we felt were a priority. We started with clearing the clutter by catching up on emails and reorganizing the filing cabinet. Then we focused on the follow-up activities (reconnecting with the previous year's contacts) and creating content for the main blog.

Now that these things are done, I can schedule time for creating content for the channel. Doing things in this order will allow us to get back to the publication schedule with less pressure, less weight on our shoulders.

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Some links in this post are affiliate links. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to amazon.com and affiliate sites