Novel, A Stranger Came Among Them

I grew up with westerns. My father watched them all the time and that was our “quality time” many times throughout my childhood. So reading this book was a bit of a nostalgic experience for me. I was drawn to the rugged demeanor and description of the cowboys, and even more to the headstrong women who played them like a fiddle. One of the most impressive things about this story was that there was never much of a lull. Every time I began to think there was a part that wasn’t quite necessary and the story could have moved along without it, the author explained exactly why that piece was part of the puzzle. The sex scenes were well written and steamy, but not like contemporary romance, more fitting to that particular genre–with the applicable terminology and all. The gunfight scenes were just as exciting and described vividly enough for me to almost taste the blood on Sampson’s lip. <Read More>

Romance, Intrigue and History All Rolled into One.  A fabulous look at the post Civil War West and South with two unforgettable characters. The descriptions were so rich and meticulously researched I felt like I was there. This the second book in a series about Arley and John Sampson, their steamy love affair and their quest to unravel a mystery that will have you turning the pages. From the ranch in Colorado, to the Planter's Hotel in St. Louis to the journey on the elegant riverboat, this book will propel you back to another time, thick with romance and intrigue. Don't miss it!  

This is the 2nd book in a trilogy. Again, Mr. Montano's writing is superb with plot twists that made me keep reading. New "bad guys" keep popping up and John Sampson, "the good guy" and his ingenious mind, move the story forward with a combination of ease and action. Looking forward to Book 3.

Novel, A Stranger Came Among Them

I enjoyed reading this novel in particular because it crossed over into a number of genres ranging from historical fiction, action, a Western, romance. But most interesting to me was the dual perspectives of the machismo cowboy (with the soft heart) interacting with the powerful female characters that one would not normally find in a typical western. There is enough of a history lesson in here to make the enjoyable read also feel intellectually rewarding. Lastly, the characters were developed into full personalities, so the actions became so logical because one "knew that is exactly what that character would have done." Character flaws were exposed and sometimes some of the characters rose above their weaknesses and became better versions of themselves.

I didn't want to put it down. Each time I did I found myself wanting to pick it up and find out what happens next. The characters leap off the pages as do the historical facts woven throughout. At times I felt like I was there with the characters as they traveled from Colorado to Charleston. Makes me appreciate how much easier we have it in America today Be prepared for some steamy scenes!

Novel, A Stranger Came Among Them

You have got to be kidding! This is the first book written by this guy and being in love with the western genre all my life, I could not believe what he accomplished. This story goes off with a "bang" pardon the pun, and never runs out of ammunition. The characters, their stories, the backdrop and attention to details kept me going as if I literally was watching a terrific movie. It has action, intrigue, suspense and mixed with a bit of sex thrown in for good measure the only let down is it ends.

But take heart, Montano didn't just write one book about this cast of characters, he wrote two more. The second one and the third are as good if not better than the first. You get to know these people as if you are part of an on going saga that takes hold and doesn't let go.

You might as well buy all three so you don't have to waste time going from one to another. I hope Montano keeps this saga going with a fourth book. I can't wait!

Novel, An Ill Wind Is Blowing

This is the third book in the series and it delivers! This is a quality writer who artfully builds suspense and keeps you turning the pages. In the first two books, he created mystery and tension and everything culminates into an exciting, satisfying ending with An Ill Wind is Blowing. His main characters were well-developed with a thorough back-story, so you understand them and care about them. Mr. Montano uses history as a character too. Clever and creative tactics to undo enemies in this book is fascinating, and something I have never seen in a book before. I am not a reader of Westerns, so this series was out of my comfort zone, and to capture my interest in this genre was a coup itself! I just hope this is not the last we have seen of John and Arley--an excellent read. I recommend, especially to Western romance lovers.

Novel, A Stranger Came Among Them

What an intriguing and engaging novel, that is extremely well written. It drew me into the world of the old west, and into the lives of Arley and John. There's was a fascinating relationship from the start, that had me emotionally invested. "A Stranger Came Among Them" is a romance, an adventure, an exciting glimpse into a world captured brilliantly by the author. I plan to read the next book in the series.

Novel, Escape Back to Charleston

A fabulous look at the post Civil War West and South with two unforgettable characters. The descriptions were so rich and meticulously researched I felt like I was there. This the second book in a series about Arley and John Sampson, their steamy love affair and their quest to unravel a mystery that will have you turning the pages. From the ranch in Colorado, to the Planter's Hotel in St. Louis to the journey on the elegant riverboat, this book will propel you back to another time, thick with romance and intrigue.

Novel, A Stranger Came Among Them

As a fictional author I appreciate the complexity of creating a story that is captivating and compelling. Author Donald Montano post civil war-western will hold your attention with his eloquent, descriptive style. He brings the surrounding to life and gives you the amazing feeling of being there as an invisible voyeur. The characters are real in so many ways, tridimensional and well developed. You can almost feel the emotion of their trials and tribulation as you follow John Sampson's difficult journey as he overcomes obstacles and tribulations. There are so the many twists and turns that make your head spin. You will have difficulty putting this book down until the very end. One of my favorite characters is the stunning and passionate Arley; the complexity of her persona is particularly interesting and will surely captivate the readers. This western novel is written with creativity and style by the talented author. I look forward of reading more offerings from Mr. Montano. Well worth your time and highly recommended.