What Happens in Montana

by Kim McCollum

“...a beautifully written tale of strong female relationships that draws you in from the beginning and won’t let go. Reading this book is like spending the afternoon with comforting friends. Enjoy the experience.” –Diane Dickinson, author of Final Transaction

A ghost's antics, a harrowing moose chase, a hypnosis session, and smuggled booze lead to spilled secrets and betrayal, but do they also lead to murder?

At a hot springs retreat in Montana, whiskey-swigging Maude, the nearly eighty-year-old chef, longs for the glory days when the retreat hosted martini-sipping celebrities instead of long-haired hippies who refuse to wear deodorant. Brooke, feisty, adventurous, and a bit reckless, proposes a reunion at the retreat with her best friends to get away from the chaos of her life with teenagers and the emotional aftermath of her postponed wedding. One of those friends, Tracy, has devoted her life to her children and her husband despite her excruciating boredom. But a long-held secret could cost her the most important friendships in her life. Haunting the place is a ghost who, in life, dealt with tragedy by turning to prostitution which led to her murder over 100 years ago at the very place they all are staying.

What Happens in Montana explores friendship, betrayal, and forgiveness with blunt truth and witty insights. Together, these friends learn to navigate empty nests, infidelity, deception, and poltergeists. Most importantly, they learn their friendship is strong enough to get them through it all.

Genres: Mystery, Fiction, Womens Fiction, Adult Fiction, Adult, Contemporary

335 pages, Paperback

Published January 24, 2024

About the author

Kim McCollum graduated from Barnard College with a major in Japanese and was soon navigating the hustle and bustle of Wall Street. When her first child was born, she stayed home to raise her children. Once they headed off to school, Kim finally found time to pursue her passion for writing. Her award-winning debut novel, WHAT HAPPENS IN MONTANA, was published in January 2024, and her short stories have appeared in several publications. She lives in Bozeman, Montana, with her supportive husband, Brian, and their blended menagerie of five kids and three spoiled pets.

Reviews

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoy reading debut novels and this one didn't disappoint. Although I suspect that most readers connect with the four younger women who have come to this Montana resort for a "girls" reunion, I loved Maude & Simone. Maude, the resort's chef, has reached the age where she knows what matters to her, not caring what others think. Simone is a 100-year-old ghost who was murdered at the resort and her life story was beautifully written. Her struggles to survive were not uncommon for women. As she said, "No one hopes to become a prostitute. Involuntarily, life turns you into one."

The four friends struggled with secrets and issues many women can identify with. Reading about their relationships made me happy that I've been married to my husband for 50 years and he still makes me laugh every day. This book has much to offer...a bit of history, a touch of paranormal, a murder mystery, and women's friendships. A very impressive debut novel.

My thanks to NetGalley and Black Rose Writing for the digital ARC. All opinions and the review are entirely my own.

[Literary Reviewer · Rating 4 out of 5]

What Happens in Montana by Kim McCollum elegantly weaves a tapestry of mystery and interpersonal dynamics set against the backdrop of the Bridger Hot Springs Retreat in Montana. McCollum introduces us to Maude, a seasoned chef and gardener at the resort, who has an affinity for solitude, her loyal dog Toby, and an unusual friendship with Simone, the resort’s famed ghost. This paranormal element adds a unique twist to the narrative, particularly as the plot thickens with the arrival of a group of women from Las Vegas.

Each character in this ensemble, notably the women from Las Vegas, is meticulously crafted, revealing the complexities of their lives in their forties. McCollum’s skill in character development shines through in the portrayal of Brooke, who resonates deeply with Maude, evoking memories of her late daughter, Jenny. The inclusion of a diverse cast, including the resort’s owner and a young yoga instructor named Max, enriches the narrative.

The novel’s strength lies in its exploration of human nature, capturing emotions like drama, passion, heartbreak, and the enduring power of friendship. Even the supernatural elements are handled with a sense of authenticity, lending an additional layer of intrigue to the story. McCollum’s attention to detail in developing the backstory for each character, particularly the ghostly Simone, is commendable. The novel balances its elements of mystery with themes of personal growth and the complexities of adult friendships. It’s a refreshing take on the genre, blending suspense and emotional depth in a way that keeps the reader engaged.

What Happens in Montana is a compelling read for those who appreciate mysteries interlaced with rich character studies and themes centered around friendship and growth. McCollum’s novel is a testament to the intricacies of human and supernatural connections, making it a recommended read for fans of drama and mystery alike.

[Iskra Dimitrova · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a great mind reset, when friendship takes you on an adventure, through the eyes of these women. A mystery, and a ghost to keep you on the edge of your seat.

A reminder that friendships are the strongest bond.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
10/10 recommend for my mystery lovers. 😮‍💨👌🏻

[Diane Nagatomo · Rating 5 out of 5]

What Happens in Montana is women’s fiction at its best! There are the four best friends (from their “Mommy and Me” days) getting away for a girls’ week at a yoga-health retreat at a Montana lodge that is well past its heyday. And then, there is the elderly cook, Maude, who is on communication terms with the lodge’s resident ghost, Simone. Maude is automatically drawn to one of the women because of the resemblance to her deceased daughter. Ordinarily standoffish with guests, she not only initiates contact with this group, she also observers them carefully and becomes concerned after one of them has been selected by the unsavory yoga instructor as his next conquest. As the week progresses, the women’s secrets, desires, and concerns are revealed. Will their friendship be strong enough to handle all of this? And at the same time, Simone is telling her story, realizing that it might be up to her to make sure Maude prevents what had happened to her a hundred years earlier to one of these women.

Kim McCullum’s debut novel is a real page turner, and I was transported straight to the Montana of today and to the rustic Montana of yesterday. When I reached the end of the book, I was reluctant to put it down. I wanted to stay connected to these women for much longer! A strong five stars!

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful debut novel that I very much enjoyed. I read well past midnight with this one cause I didn't want to put it down.
I loved comparing the two very different Montanas past and present.
Wish I could give this story than 5 stars. It was so very good.
Lots of strong character development and an awesome plot.
This story shows that even the best of friends have their problems and it also shows how strong their friendships stayed together throughout this endearing novel.
Test of time is what I like to call it.
Hope, love, friendship and family with a ghost in the midst makes this read all the worth while.
Lots of twists and turns along with some action will keep you turning the pages until you're finished.
I'm going to honestly say I love Maude. I love her fiestiness at her age and she made me smile more than once.
Women's fiction at its best. I highly recommend!
My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Kathy Boehm · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story opens four days before the body of a 28-year-old man was found at the base of the wooden stairs outside of a old rundown retreat in Montana. Elderly Maude, who has worked there for thirty years as the head chef and waitress, is a sharp cookie. She and Toby, her bloodhound, seem to be everywhere at once. Maude tells it like it is. She turns out to be fiercely protective of anyone whom she deems to be in danger. Her invisible, yet omnipresent sidekick happens to be a 100-year-old ghost by the name of Simone who was murdered at age twenty at that very lodge. She is not at rest. Her life as a dance hall girl and prostitute has made her street smart and tough.

Staying at the retreat for a week-long reunion, away from husbands and kids, are four friends of twenty years, Tracy, Brooke, Quinn, and Krista. Each of them carries her own burdens, and one of them has a tightly held secret which threatens to tear the group apart. Maude, their touchstone, bonds with each of them early in their stay.

A fun read, chick lit at its finest, with a wild west setting, a murder mystery, a ghost, a wise, older woman, and four other women seeking peace in their lives, whatever it takes. The epilogue, told many months later, was a nice wrap-up to the story, a memorable one for its uniqueness and creative approach. Brava to the author Kim McCallum, for a fine first effort.

Thanks to Book Sirens for a digital copy of this book. (Publication date: January 25, 2024). My review is voluntarily and gladly written.

[Jacqueline · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am an ARC reader and this is my honest opinion.
This is not the kind of book I usually read so I found it a bit hard to get into at first. This is a sort of double timeline contemporary/historical story, which I enjoy. Four friends who have known each other for 20 years, since they met at their "Mommy and Me" group with their babies. Having scattered to different states, they decide to have their first physical reunion for years. They choose the Bridger Hot springs Resort in Montana, a dry vegan resort (but one of them smuggles alcohol in sun cream bottles!). The resort is inhabited by the ghost of a young woman who was murdered 100 years before when she was 20, and an older lady who'd been living and working at the resort for over 30 years and has a rapport with Simone, the ghost. It is a revelatory experience for all concerned and did pull me in when Simone began to reveal her story. What lead to her death was the kind of situation in life that could happen to any young woman in impoverished circumstances in the 19th century. A good cozy read

[Cherie Garcelon · Rating 3 out of 5]

Eh, It was an okay read, Probably wouldn't read anything else by the author
Book Club February

[Kristine L. · Rating 2 out of 5]

Four middle-aged women go on a “girls reunion” to a rundown “holistic” yoga center thingy in Butte, Montana. Brooke, Krista, Quinn and Tracy first met at a Mommy and Me group when their kids were little. A long time ago. Now the quartet is headed to Big Sky Country and a retreat for body, soul, and mind.

Just beneath the chummy surface, however, all is not well in ex-Mommy and Me Land. There are secrets. Betrayals. A harrowing run-in with a moose. And a hiking guide/yoga instructor who’s not who he seems to be. In fact, hunky “Max Williams” isn’t even the dude’s real name.

There’s also a tyrannical retreat owner, Barb, and eighty-ish Maude, the retreat’s chef. Maude is on a first-name basis with the retreat’s resident ghost, Simone. A prostitute from 100 years ago, Simone was murdered at the retreat. She puts in an appearance now and then, but mostly makes lights flickers and people chilly. There’s also yoga. Weight loss hypnosis. The tree bark and twigs-ish menu. The complexities of female friendships. And while the four gal pals seem like they’re all great friends on the surface, all huggy and chitty-chatty and all, there’s a lot going on beneath the smiling facades. Oh, and by the way. Even though they're at a "dry" retreat, booze seems to solve everything with these four. Or not.

There's a dead body later. Well, that’ll sure put a hitch in your weekend get-along. 

Scene stealer: Geriatric Maude, irrepressible chef at Bridger Hot Springs Retreat. Other scene stealer: Maude’s faithful canine companion, Toby.


The novel also delves into the seedy, seamy underside of 19th century Butte, Montana. This was the weakest part of the story. The fact that the timeline ticks between past and present like a metronome on steroids doesn't help. Neither do the multiple POVS. Kindly pass the Excedrin. And with the exception of Maude, the characters feel contrived and brittle, the plot thin and predictable. It just tries too hard.

There’s also the occasional typo such as the repeated use of the word “taught” when the context indicates “taut.” As in, “Brooke swore they kept her neck and jawline much more taught…” (p. 34). Also, what happened to "Jenny" and why is never really spelled out. A loose end left dangling. Or maybe I just didn't care anymore.

Some peeps are gonna love this book. I'm not one of 'em. While What Happens in Montana has its moments and the writing is solid, it's just not my cuppa.  

[Gemma · Rating 4 out of 5]

Actual rating 3.5*

I loved the idea of a relaxing retreat in the middle of nowhere in Montana where secrets start to spill and the addition of the ghost haunting the place made for a very intriguing book. First of all, I loved the setting. A once glorious, famous retreat for celebrities, it has long since become a rather rundown place and is in major need of a renovation. This adds to the dark and dangerous vibe of the retreat even though it is supposed to be relaxing and the 4 women on a reunion are unsure what to make of it. I also liked that the women were in their 40/50s, quite a bit older than you usually expect to see in these types of stories.

The story is told from the POVs of 4 of the main characters: Maude, the retreat’s chef who has been there for 30+ years, Tracy and Brooke, 2 from the girl’s reunion and there is even a POV from the resident ghost Simone, which I really didn’t expect but I ended up loving it! I did wonder why we only had 2 of the 4 friends POVs but it worked really well as Tracy has been living with a huge secret for 20 years and Brooke was going through her own problems with her fiancé at home. I loved Maude and she was definitely my favourite character.

At first I wasn’t sure if I was going to like Simone’s chapters but she turns out to be a huge part of the plot and I loved reading about her life 100 years ago. From growing up with her mum on the homestead to the heartbreaking and emotional story of how she ends up as a prostitute, Simone now haunts the retreat where she was killed and is waiting for the right moment to move on. I did think the ghostly aspect was a bit disappointing as she could only cause a slight shiver but she grows stronger throughout the novel until the twist at the end.

I really enjoyed the ending of the novel and thought the twists and the differences between the women on the reunion came together nicely. Simone and Maude were the standout characters for me and I would have loved to have found out more about Maude’s life such as how her own daughter died and how she ended up at the retreat.

What Happens in Montana is a book full of complex characters and friendships and strong female characters with a supernatural element included. This debut novel by Kim McCollum is a perfect read for fans of mysteries, secluded retreats and ghosts.

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[Leslie aka StoreyBook Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story blends friendship with a hint of mystery and a ghost!

Four women decide to take a weekend getaway to a hotel in Montana, in need of much repair. At least parts of it. But what they don't anticipate is finding their true selves, uncovering some secrets, and making new friends.

This story is told from multiple points of view. This can get distracting, but it helps, especially when Simone, the ghost, is telling her story. I really enjoyed learning about her life and why she died and was stuck at this hotel. I really liked Maude. She has been at the hotel/retreat center for thirty years. That is a long time in one spot, but she loves it there and has a connection with Simone. She may not know why Simone is there or what she needs to move on, but she still feels a connection to her. Then, there are the four women who came to this retreat to reconnect. While they had met as younger women, they were spread out across the country now. There are secrets that come to light, and it is amazing how revealing those secrets freed the women up to be themselves and not in fear of the secret being revealed before the right time.

I enjoyed the story and can appreciate how this weekend away might impact their lives. There is a sideline story about Maude's daughter who died and how Brooke reminds her of that daughter. But we are left hanging as to what happened to the daughter and how it impacted her marriage. I would have liked to have known more about that scenario. There is also a lothario at the hotel, Max. Let's just say that Max is not who you think he is, and luckily, no one is hurt in their interactions with him.

This was a fun read, and we give it 4 paws up.

[Daniel D. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Forget all of those preconceptions concerning novels about friendship and the distructive power of secrets. This psychologically perceptive and skillfully narrated tale by Kim McCullum is different. McCullum has taken on some significant challenges, with combining different points of view, as well as usage of first and third person narration, and clearly succeeded in mixing stories within stories to concoct a portrait of what complex elements comprise long term relationships. She has very accurately show us the lasting value of loyalty and forgiveness.

The introduction of the a spiritual element, in the form of the ghost, Simone, is made more believeable by the distinct and well developed character of Maud and her unique perceptions about people and what is going on around them. Maud is Simone’s intermediary with the living world, and she is perceptive enough to undersand and articulate Simone’s motivations.

The pacing is excellent, and the characterizations of the four friends: Brooke, Quinn, Tracy and Krista are spot-on. The thematic intertwining of Brooke’s victimization by Max and the the murder of Simone is orchestrated brilliantly, and Tracy’s secret is hinted at early on, with her ambivilent feelings concerning Qwinn. All-in-all, the narrative strands are tightly woven and expertly unwound.

This is clearly a five star work, which I highly recommend to all readers.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

"At a hot springs retreat in Montana, whiskey-swigging Maude, the nearly eighty-year-old chef, longs for the glory days when the retreat hosted martini-sipping celebrities instead of long-haired hippies who refuse to wear deodorant. Brooke, feisty, adventurous, and a bit reckless, proposes a reunion at the retreat with her best friends to get away from the chaos of her life with teenagers and the emotional aftermath of her postponed wedding. One of those friends, Tracy, has devoted her life to her children and her husband despite her excruciating boredom. But a long-held secret could cost her the most important friendships in her life. Haunting the place is a ghost who, in life, dealt with tragedy by turning to prostitution which led to her murder over 100 years ago at the very place they all are staying."

This right here has become my favorite book so far! I felt so connected to all the characters in so many ways. Beautifully and truthfully written tale of true friendship, from the amazing times of having first children to the heartaches of loss and betrayal. Maude was a wonderful character and watching through her eyes was so emotional. Simone, well, the pain and heartache for this poor girl, her story, her tragedies, it was very emotional to hear her story.

I laughed, and I cried....and I loved every page of it.

Thank you @Kim McCollum and @goodreads for this copy. I will treasure it always.

[Bibliophiles_lair · Rating 4 out of 5]

What Happens in Montana, Kim McCollum dives deep into the intricate web of female friendships, layered with mystery and a touch of the supernatural.
The narrative unveils not just personal struggles but the resilient bonds of friendship that define them.
McCollum's writing shines as she crafts each character with depth and nuance, particularly through Maude's poignant reflections that paint the struggles of both the living and the deceased.
The interplay between the contemporary lives of the women and Simone's tragic history creates a captivating contrast, illustrating the timelessness of female experience.
McCollum's touch of the paranormal is not merely gimmicky; it enhances the emotional gravitas of the tale, reminding us that past traumas can haunt us, much like Simone's lingering presence.
The exploration of themes such as infidelity, betrayal, and personal growth resonates powerfully, as each character's journey mirrors the complexities faced by women today.
McCollum's ability to blend humor with heartache keeps the tone light yet introspective, leading readers to reflect on their own friendships and the secrets that bind them.
For anyone seeking a heartwarming yet thought-provoking story, What Happens in Montana offers a delightful escape filled with laughter, tears, and the unbreakable bonds of friendship.
It's a beautifully woven tale that will linger with you long after you've turned the final page—a truly impressive debut that should not be missed.

[Nanasbookreviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.

What Happens in Montana by Kim McCollum is a heartwarming and captivating story about friendship.

The book follows four friends who plan a reunion at a remote retreat in Montana. They choose a location that’s rumored to be haunted by the ghost of a person who was murdered there. What was meant to be a relaxing getaway soon turns into a whirlwind of ghostly encounters, a wild chase by a moose, poor decision-making, and the unraveling of secrets that could jeopardize their once unbreakable bond.

This novel beautifully explores the strength and complexity of true friendship. The plot is engaging, and the story is told from multiple perspectives, which adds depth and variety. In addition to the main storyline, there’s also a side narrative involving the ghost, and the combination of these two threads creates a rich, immersive experience. The characters feel incredibly real, and their personal struggles resonate deeply.

My favorite part of the book was the emotional ending, which brought me to tears.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys heartfelt stories about friendship, mystery, and the unexpected twists life can take.

[Alina Bădică · Rating 4 out of 5]

This isn’t my usual kind of read, but I have to admit—it had me hooked. A mix of mystery, friendship, and a touch of the supernatural, this book kept me flipping pages just to see how it all played out.
Maude and Simone were easily my favorite characters. Maude, the no-nonsense cook, has been through enough to know what really matters, and she’s not afraid to speak her mind. Then there’s Simone—a ghost who’s been stuck at the lodge for a century, carrying the weight of a tragic past. Her story was heartbreaking but beautifully written, and one line in particular really hit me: “No one wants to be a prostitute. Life unintentionally transforms you into one.”
The heart of the book is friendship. Tracy, Brooke, Quinn, and Krista have been close for years, but this retreat brings up secrets and struggles that could change everything. Meanwhile, Maude, who usually keeps her distance from guests, can’t help but feel protective of them—especially one woman who reminds her of someone she lost. And when things take a dangerous turn, Simone realizes she has to step in before history repeats itself.
It’s a mix of suspense, emotions, and eerie vibes, all set in an old Montana lodge that adds to the atmosphere. And that epilogue? Such a satisfying way to wrap it all up.

[Troy Hollan · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Kim McCollum’s debut novel, historical and individual worlds collide, and explosive secrets are revealed. “What Happens in Montana” deftly alternates between a well-researched journey to the past of Prohibition-era speakeasies, and an exploration of the entanglement of the lives of five women in present-day Montana and Vegas. Shifting between several points of view, which include those of a troubled spirit, a quartet of women struggling under the burden of their respective secrets, and a lonely old cook who will ultimately unite them, McCollum has created a big-hearted, gently humorous novel about forgiveness, redemption, and the power of connection. “What Happens in Montana” is an unexpected delight - a quick and engaging read that uses parallels between the past and the present to illustrate the myriad ways in which the very best and worst of human nature remain largely unchanged over time. With a natural gift for story-telling, reminiscent of Elin Hilderbrand’s, McCollum is definitely an author to watch! Highly recommended for readers of historical and contemporary fiction, and those who enjoy a fast-paced, feel-good read with a satisfying conclusion.

[Chelsie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This novel had me giggling at times, I really loved Maude's character. Four friends agree to a girls weekend together at a retreat in Montana. A weekend away from the kids, the significant other all the other mother/wife duties sounds like a dream vacation to most, until the women find out what this retreat really is. Dry - no alcohol, healthy plant eating, adventurous hikes, and the best part there are springs to relax in. But this turns into anything but a relaxing weekend when there is a supposed ghost who has ramped up its visits, a moose, a murder and a long held secret that come spilling out. The ghost needs Maude's help and is seeing its past reoccurring to someone else. It is anything but a quiet weekend for the women but this reminds them of their friendship and that life often doesn't follow the way we want things to go. I really enjoyed the historical storyline woven through out this novel. Thank you to the author for the complementary novel and WOW! Women on Writing for the tour invite. This review is of my own opinion and accord.

[Gail Olmsted · Rating 5 out of 5]

A girls' getaway leads to danger, hijinks, murder and more. The four women have been friends for nearly twenty years and all have a child going off to college in the fall. It's a perfect time to relax, reconnect and recharge at a rundown hot springs resort in Montana. Except one of the women has a secret, a big one, that if revealed could destroy the lives of two families. And another woman might be getting cold feet as she imagines her upcoming wedding plans. To complicate things even further, there's a womanizing yoga instructor with anger issues on the staff, a nearing 80 year old head chef who prefers whiskey to her own vegan fare, and a ghost who roams around the resort- she's a murdered prostitute who is trying to warn the living of life's dangers.

The bonds of friendship are put to the test as the women deal with empty nests waiting for them back home, infidelity, trust issues and forgiveness. What Happens in Montana by Kim McCollum is a compelling tale that is both humorous and honest. Highly recommended.

[Zebaish James · Rating 5 out of 5]

what could be more perfect than a haunted resort where a new murder takes place and a group of bored moms happen to investigate it? Kim McCollum’s “What Happens in Montana” brings exactly that! I was hooked the minute I started reading the book, there’s such a sense of subtle haunting atmosphere and sadness that Simone’s ghostly presence adds to the story, there’s also a vintage feel to the whole story that just makes it such a cozy comfortable read with all the vivid descriptions of the beautiful Montana and the retreat in particular. I loved the author’s exploration of the nuanced female relationships as well, the way Tracy, Brooke, Krista and Quinn love each other despite their complicated feelings and insecurities is such a real and truthful depiction in my opinion. there are some crazy plot twists waiting for you in this one too. Delving into Simone’s heartbreaking tale was a profound experience for me as well, just learning about her past and all she went through. In a nutshell I truly enjoyed this incredible story.

[what.rincy.reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Maude, an elderly woman who works at a holistic
retreat and lives a quiet life with Toby her dog. She has one friend though, Simone, the ghost that has haunted the premises for decades.

Simone is not our usual ghost. Even though she has been around for years, she is not very good at haunting.
After all this time she could only make a small connection with Maude, who knew of her presence but didn't know what she wanted from her.

Then there is a group of 4 women in probably their late 40's early 50's, Tracy, Krista, Quinn and Brooke who have been friends since their mommy and me group days and have come to the retreat for a weekend getaway from their busy lives.

Simone and Maude immediately feel a pull towards them. Like they want to protect them from something, both in their own ways. By the time their little holiday is over, the women go through a roller coaster of emotions, revealing secrets, making mistakes, but they emerge from it with an even stronger friendship. I was so happy with all of the endings.

What happens in Montana is a medium paced yet quirky and fun read that focuses on aspects like women friendships, independent and strong women, with touches of fiction, paranormal and murder mystery. I really liked the author’s writing style. It has multiple povs including our resident ghost, which was not confusing at all for someone who struggles with multiple narrations. Simone's story was quite fun, l could not have guessed her reason for haunting the place, what she needed to move on was quite entertaining to read. This was a really light and cozy read and I enjoyed it very much.

[Ruth Stevens · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such an absorbing novel! What Happens in Montana combines contemporary women’s fiction and historical fiction—with a little mystery thrown in—in a dual timeline story that is well-crafted and fun to read. In the modern-day story, where four friends celebrate a reunion at a hot springs Montana retreat that manages to be upscale and seedy at the same time, I found echoes of Liane Moriarty and Lucy Foley. The historical timeline takes us back to the Montana of a century ago, when life was hard, and women were sometimes forced into prostitution to survive.

The two stories are so skillfully interwoven, I forgot that I was reading the work of a debut author. The tension and mystery mount as the action progresses, and I found myself racing through the second half to find out what would happen. I look forward to seeing more from Kim McCollum. I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Cam Torrens · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the opportunity for an early read of Kim McCollum's debut novel, "What Happens in Montana." What a way to close out my 2023 reading list!

McCollum does character and voice like Moriarty's "Nine Perfect Strangers" meets Sebold's "The Lovely Bones!"

Four close friends reunite for a "gals trip" at a quirky Montana spa retreat. The unresolved drama between the women could have carried the story on its own, but McCollum spices it up with a hot yoga instructor known as a "player," an opinionated octogenarian chef, and a possible spirit from Montana's past. A brisk plot, intriguing setting, and relationship themes make this story a page-flipper, but I highlight character development as McCollum's métier. She creates personalities readers can't help but react to. And that's what good writing does!

[Dace ჯ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Four friends from a Mommy&Me group in Las Vegas, whose babies are already about to leave the nest and start college, decide to go to Bridger Hot Springs, Montana (based on Boulder Hot Springs, it seems) for a reunion. The reunion turns out to be a turning point for at least three of them, Maude, the elderly woman who works as a chef at the retreat, and the resident ghost Simone. There are two parallel timelines - the present day, which is the summer of 2022 - and a century ago when Simone lived. So, it's partly a historical fiction telling a story of farming, prohibition, bootlegging, and the red-light district of Butte, Montana. There is also a bit of murder mystery and magical realism, but mostly it's a tribute to women friendship.

I won the e-book as an EarlyReviewers giveaway and this is my honest review.

[Miia Salomäki · Rating 4 out of 5]

Four middle aged women decide to have a Mommy and me 20 th reunion at a remote spa in Montana that has seen its glory days. While they get together and bond, secrets are revealed, and there's a ghost, and even a body. The story is told in four pov’s - Brooke and Tracy from the group of friends, Maude who’s an employee of the resort in her 80s, and Simone, the ghost of a young prostitute who was murdered at the resort almost a hundred years ago. There’s also dual timeline between present and Simone’s background story.
McCollum’s debut book is a mixture of contemporary and historical, drama and mystery, and most of all it’s an ode to friendship that endures through good times and bad. The characters seem like genuine American middle aged women. I liked that the chapters were short and that we got more insight into things through different narrators. All and all, this was a nice read.

[Jackie Welcel · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very good book. I did enjoy the relationships between the best friends. It was almost like reading 3 different stories, the one about the besties, the one about Maude, and then Simone's past. The book was well-written and interesting with a few shockers. At the beginning of the book I really thought I would like Maude but she was just too grumpy and cantankerous for me to like her. I did like Brooke, Quinn, Krista, Tracy and Simone. When I got near the end of the book there was still so much that I knew had to happen I couldn't see how it would all be told but it sure did and I was pleased with the way everything was explained and nicely wrapped up. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Ralph Ellis · Rating 5 out of 5]

In "What Happens in Montana," four women who’ve known each other for decades travel to a holistic resort in the Rockies for a relaxing girls’ getaway. Nothing goes as planned. The resort is run down and in need of repair. The women, instead of laughing over old times, share the problems in their lives and their relationships and unearth long-buried secrets. And the eighty-something, whiskey-swigging cook keeps injecting herself into the four womens’ lives, thanks to clues from her best friend, the ghost of a slain prostitute who haunts the resort. Author Kim McCollum skillfully uses different points of view and flashbacks to keep the story moving along at full speed. The novel ends with an affirmation of the importance of friendships.

[Ramona Mead · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a little bit of everything. It has mystery, a ghost story, historical fiction, and women's fiction elements. It made for a compelling reading experience, I didn't want to put it down!

Four women meet for a girlfriends' renuion at a creepy holistic hot springs retreat in Montana. They bond with Maude, the old chef, and have lots of adventures at the retreat. Scrects are spilled, betrayals occur, it's a juicy mess! Interspersed with the 5 women's stories is the perscpective of a ghost who has inhabited the retreat for nearly 100 years.

The writing is weak in spots and at times it feels like the book needed one more good round of edits but in general it's great for a debut novel. Highly recommend.

[Jan · Rating 4 out of 5]

There are four best friends (from days of living in Vegas and being new mothers some twenty years ago) want to get away for a girls’ week at a yoga-health retreat/spa at a Montana lodge that is well past its heyday. The story delves into the problems the friends are facing here in the current day, as well as those of the somewhat elderly cook, and definitely those of the resident ghost. There is shared personal growth as shown i the development of realistic characters. The story is well crafted and memorable. Me, I just want to go visit and stay at that quiet retreat in the back country.
I requested and received an EARC from Black Rose Writing via NetGalley. Thank you