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The Monarch Alliance
“Surprises around every corner.” – Readers’ Favorite
“A suspenseful and delicate walk between mystery, history, and thriller tension.” – Midwest Book Review
A century-old secret. Hidden letters never meant to be found.
And one journalist who may pay the price for uncovering the truth.
High atop New York’s Shawangunk Ridge, the Mohonk Mountain House is a place of legend—a Victorian, castle-like resort rising above a mountain lake, where peace conferences once shaped history.
For investigative reporter Danika Vaughn, it’s supposed to be a quiet retreat.
Instead, it becomes the most dangerous assignment of her life.
After exposing a powerful global organization, Danika’s credibility is shattered, her career in ruins, and her name quietly blacklisted. Seeking anonymity, she retreats to the historic hotel—only to discover it’s soon hosting a high-profile World Peace Summit.
And the very people responsible for her downfall are on the guest list.
Searching for distraction, Danika begins reading a bundle of old letters discovered in her great-grandmother’s attic. Within them, she uncovers a forbidden romance—and hints of a secret deliberately hidden to protect the future. What Noah, a Quaker carpenter at the hotel, helped conceal wasn’t just a love story, but something powerful enough to attract dangerous attention more than a century later.
As elite guests arrive and security tightens, Danika realizes she isn’t the only one who knows the truth. Someone wants the past to stay buried—and they’ll do whatever it takes to ensure it does.
Her only ally is Cole McCain, Mohonk’s head of security and a combat veteran carrying scars of his own. Together, they follow a trail of cryptic clues toward a global conspiracy that powerful forces are determined to keep hidden.
In a place built for peace, a war for truth is about to begin.
Blending real history with heart-pounding suspense, The Monarch Alliance is perfect for fans of historical mysteries, secret societies, and modern conspiracy thrillers.
Follow the trail of clues in this page-turning mystery, where nothing is as it seems—and discover why what was hidden to protect the world may now be the only thing that can save it.
“A suspenseful and delicate walk between mystery, history, and thriller tension.” – Midwest Book Review
A century-old secret. Hidden letters never meant to be found.
And one journalist who may pay the price for uncovering the truth.
High atop New York’s Shawangunk Ridge, the Mohonk Mountain House is a place of legend—a Victorian, castle-like resort rising above a mountain lake, where peace conferences once shaped history.
For investigative reporter Danika Vaughn, it’s supposed to be a quiet retreat.
Instead, it becomes the most dangerous assignment of her life.
After exposing a powerful global organization, Danika’s credibility is shattered, her career in ruins, and her name quietly blacklisted. Seeking anonymity, she retreats to the historic hotel—only to discover it’s soon hosting a high-profile World Peace Summit.
And the very people responsible for her downfall are on the guest list.
Searching for distraction, Danika begins reading a bundle of old letters discovered in her great-grandmother’s attic. Within them, she uncovers a forbidden romance—and hints of a secret deliberately hidden to protect the future. What Noah, a Quaker carpenter at the hotel, helped conceal wasn’t just a love story, but something powerful enough to attract dangerous attention more than a century later.
As elite guests arrive and security tightens, Danika realizes she isn’t the only one who knows the truth. Someone wants the past to stay buried—and they’ll do whatever it takes to ensure it does.
Her only ally is Cole McCain, Mohonk’s head of security and a combat veteran carrying scars of his own. Together, they follow a trail of cryptic clues toward a global conspiracy that powerful forces are determined to keep hidden.
In a place built for peace, a war for truth is about to begin.
Blending real history with heart-pounding suspense, The Monarch Alliance is perfect for fans of historical mysteries, secret societies, and modern conspiracy thrillers.
Follow the trail of clues in this page-turning mystery, where nothing is as it seems—and discover why what was hidden to protect the world may now be the only thing that can save it.
425 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 21, 2026
About the author
Jessica James
29 books672 followersJessica James is an award-winning author of suspense, historical fiction, Christian fiction, and military fiction ranging from the Revolutionary War to modern day.
She is a four-time winner of the John Esten Cooke Award for Southern Fiction, and was featured in the book 50 Authors You Should Be Reading, published in 2010.
Her novels appeal to both men and women and are featured in library collections all over the United States including Harvard and the U.S. Naval Academy.
When not writing, Jessica James can be found on the back roads of the country, finding new historic sites to blog about on www.PastLaneTravels.com.
Her new novel, The Monarch Alliance, is a dual-era mystery that takes place at a real hotel in the Hudson Valley. It releases in April of 2026.
James resides in Gettysburg, Pa., and is a member of the Military Writers Society of America, the Independent Book Publishers Association, and NINC.
AWARDS:
2020 John Esten Cooke Award
2020 Finalist HOLT Medallion Award
2020 Finalist Greater Detroit RWA Booksellers Best Award
2019 Finalist Indie Excellence Award
2019 John Esten Cooke Award for Southern Fiction
2018 Silver Falchion Award Finalist in Suspense
2017 Rone Award for Best Cover (Deadline)
2017 IndieBRAG Medallion Winner
2016 Gold Metal Military Writers Society of America
2016 Readers’ Favorite International Book Award Bronze Winner Romance – Suspense
2016 Finalist for BOOK OF THE YEAR in Foreword Magazine’s IndieFab contest
2015 NJRW Golden Leaf Award
2014 Valley Forge Romance Writers Sheila Award Finalist
2014 John Esten Cooke Award for Southern Fiction
2014 Reader’s Crown Award Finalist
2014 Next Generation Indie Award Finalist in Fiction/Religious
2013 USA “Best Books 2013” Finalist in Fiction/Religious
2012 Bronze winner Foreword Magazine Book of the Year in Romance
2011 John Esten Cooke Award for Southern Fiction
2011 USA "Best Books 2011" Finalist in Historical Fiction
2011 Next Generation Indie Award for Best Regional Fiction
2011 Next Generation Indie Finalist in Romance
2011 Next Generation Indie Finalist in Historical Fiction
2011 NABE Pinnacle Book Achievement Award
2010 Military Writers Society Award in Historical Fiction
2009 HOLT Medallion Finalist for Best Southern Theme
2008 Indie Next Generation Award for Best Regional Fiction
2008 Indie Next Generation Finalist for Best Historical Fiction
She is a four-time winner of the John Esten Cooke Award for Southern Fiction, and was featured in the book 50 Authors You Should Be Reading, published in 2010.
Her novels appeal to both men and women and are featured in library collections all over the United States including Harvard and the U.S. Naval Academy.
When not writing, Jessica James can be found on the back roads of the country, finding new historic sites to blog about on www.PastLaneTravels.com.
Her new novel, The Monarch Alliance, is a dual-era mystery that takes place at a real hotel in the Hudson Valley. It releases in April of 2026.
James resides in Gettysburg, Pa., and is a member of the Military Writers Society of America, the Independent Book Publishers Association, and NINC.
AWARDS:
2020 John Esten Cooke Award
2020 Finalist HOLT Medallion Award
2020 Finalist Greater Detroit RWA Booksellers Best Award
2019 Finalist Indie Excellence Award
2019 John Esten Cooke Award for Southern Fiction
2018 Silver Falchion Award Finalist in Suspense
2017 Rone Award for Best Cover (Deadline)
2017 IndieBRAG Medallion Winner
2016 Gold Metal Military Writers Society of America
2016 Readers’ Favorite International Book Award Bronze Winner Romance – Suspense
2016 Finalist for BOOK OF THE YEAR in Foreword Magazine’s IndieFab contest
2015 NJRW Golden Leaf Award
2014 Valley Forge Romance Writers Sheila Award Finalist
2014 John Esten Cooke Award for Southern Fiction
2014 Reader’s Crown Award Finalist
2014 Next Generation Indie Award Finalist in Fiction/Religious
2013 USA “Best Books 2013” Finalist in Fiction/Religious
2012 Bronze winner Foreword Magazine Book of the Year in Romance
2011 John Esten Cooke Award for Southern Fiction
2011 USA "Best Books 2011" Finalist in Historical Fiction
2011 Next Generation Indie Award for Best Regional Fiction
2011 Next Generation Indie Finalist in Romance
2011 Next Generation Indie Finalist in Historical Fiction
2011 NABE Pinnacle Book Achievement Award
2010 Military Writers Society Award in Historical Fiction
2009 HOLT Medallion Finalist for Best Southern Theme
2008 Indie Next Generation Award for Best Regional Fiction
2008 Indie Next Generation Finalist for Best Historical Fiction
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A treasure hunt within a political thriller—old letters, peace conferences, and arms dealers. What could possibly go wrong?
Danika arrives at the Mohonk Mountain House with a stack of letters her great-grandmother had hidden in the attic, which originated from somebody at the house. That’s one of her motives. But she’s also a journalist determined to expose all that is wrong with the political world these days and to put an end to the cover-ups.
While exploring Mohonk and rediscovering places mentioned in the letters, she meets Cole—a combat veteran and head of security who is also searching for something. Something important. As everything seems to be connected to the letters, they join forces in a race against time as they don't have much of it before the peace conference commences.
I think what makes this work is that the characters are so believable. Nobody is perfect; everyone is flawed in some way, but at the same time, it’s clear who the villains are and why. The scariest part is that, as the mystery untangles, I don’t doubt for a second that this could be true. It feels like this is how world politics actually works—not to uphold peace, but to ensure no one knows who is pulling the strings or how much money they’re making from it.
It’s a great historical mystery, full of secrets and conspiracy theories, with a touch of romance. I highly recommend it, though it really hits a bit too close to home!
Thank you to the author, the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced copy.
Danika arrives at the Mohonk Mountain House with a stack of letters her great-grandmother had hidden in the attic, which originated from somebody at the house. That’s one of her motives. But she’s also a journalist determined to expose all that is wrong with the political world these days and to put an end to the cover-ups.
While exploring Mohonk and rediscovering places mentioned in the letters, she meets Cole—a combat veteran and head of security who is also searching for something. Something important. As everything seems to be connected to the letters, they join forces in a race against time as they don't have much of it before the peace conference commences.
I think what makes this work is that the characters are so believable. Nobody is perfect; everyone is flawed in some way, but at the same time, it’s clear who the villains are and why. The scariest part is that, as the mystery untangles, I don’t doubt for a second that this could be true. It feels like this is how world politics actually works—not to uphold peace, but to ensure no one knows who is pulling the strings or how much money they’re making from it.
It’s a great historical mystery, full of secrets and conspiracy theories, with a touch of romance. I highly recommend it, though it really hits a bit too close to home!
Thank you to the author, the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced copy.
April 21, 2026
Thank you to LBT for having me on this review tour and for my gifted copy of this epub.
This was really good read. I wasn’t sure what to think when I signed up for this book. I usually don’t read blurbs. I go off the cover and this book doesn’t disappoint in the least. Nope.
Ok so let’s dive into this fantastic read. We follow Danika who arrives at Mohonk Mountain House with a stack of letters from her great grandmother that were hidden away in an attic I mean I would love to find something like this !! How cool. Oh and the letters they were from someone at the house. Right ?! Oh did I mention Danika is also a journalist who wants to just expose all the political cover ups I mean I admire her for this I really do !!
Ooo so while Danika is trying to figure out these letters she meets Cole who is a combat veteran and working security but he’s also searching for something so they essentially team up to uncover all the things and how everything is connected to the letters.
I think the writing style is so good in this book and we have the characters who are so believable and real I felt like I was in the story with them !!!
This is a great historical mystery book with so many conspiracies and twist and turns you really don’t know which way to go. Oh and we do have a little romance too which I loved so much. I really seriously loved the writing. So well done. Really makes you think about world politics that’s all I’ll say. I don’t want to give anything away. Just makes you think. Really think.
Overall just go and get this book for me. So worth it !!!
This was really good read. I wasn’t sure what to think when I signed up for this book. I usually don’t read blurbs. I go off the cover and this book doesn’t disappoint in the least. Nope.
Ok so let’s dive into this fantastic read. We follow Danika who arrives at Mohonk Mountain House with a stack of letters from her great grandmother that were hidden away in an attic I mean I would love to find something like this !! How cool. Oh and the letters they were from someone at the house. Right ?! Oh did I mention Danika is also a journalist who wants to just expose all the political cover ups I mean I admire her for this I really do !!
Ooo so while Danika is trying to figure out these letters she meets Cole who is a combat veteran and working security but he’s also searching for something so they essentially team up to uncover all the things and how everything is connected to the letters.
I think the writing style is so good in this book and we have the characters who are so believable and real I felt like I was in the story with them !!!
This is a great historical mystery book with so many conspiracies and twist and turns you really don’t know which way to go. Oh and we do have a little romance too which I loved so much. I really seriously loved the writing. So well done. Really makes you think about world politics that’s all I’ll say. I don’t want to give anything away. Just makes you think. Really think.
Overall just go and get this book for me. So worth it !!!
April 21, 2026
Mohonk Mountain Resort is Upstate NY, founded by the Smiley Family in 1869, is the backdrop for this historical fiction novel.
Danika Vaughn is our narrator, an investigative journalist, who books the resort to disappear for a month.
What Danika uncovers at this resort is a pattern of corruption, misuse of power, and greed in huge proportions.
The book is really a story within a story, fitting jigsaw pieces together. There is a love story of Noah and Abigail, told completely by letters written from Noah to Abigail spanning their love during the Summers that Abigail visited the resort with her family in the 1900's. Abigail is Danika's great-grandmother, and Danika discovers these letters in her attic.
The letters become an integral part of the second plot - the Peace Summit taking place at the resort and Danika, with the help of Cole, the Head of Security, uncovers a sinister and dangerous agenda for this Summit.
The way these two plotlines intersect is the best part of this book. The author gently and masterfully unravels a brilliant story.
The characters are compelling, the settings are gorgeous, and the book took me places emotionally. This is a wonderful adventure with a perfect ending.
4.25 🌟
●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●
"The most dangerous secrets are the ones you carry alone."
"Sometimes the most courageous thing you can do is admit you don't know what you are doing - and try anyway."
●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●
Thank you to @authorjessicajames and @lovebookstours for having me on this tour.
Danika Vaughn is our narrator, an investigative journalist, who books the resort to disappear for a month.
What Danika uncovers at this resort is a pattern of corruption, misuse of power, and greed in huge proportions.
The book is really a story within a story, fitting jigsaw pieces together. There is a love story of Noah and Abigail, told completely by letters written from Noah to Abigail spanning their love during the Summers that Abigail visited the resort with her family in the 1900's. Abigail is Danika's great-grandmother, and Danika discovers these letters in her attic.
The letters become an integral part of the second plot - the Peace Summit taking place at the resort and Danika, with the help of Cole, the Head of Security, uncovers a sinister and dangerous agenda for this Summit.
The way these two plotlines intersect is the best part of this book. The author gently and masterfully unravels a brilliant story.
The characters are compelling, the settings are gorgeous, and the book took me places emotionally. This is a wonderful adventure with a perfect ending.
4.25 🌟
●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●
"The most dangerous secrets are the ones you carry alone."
"Sometimes the most courageous thing you can do is admit you don't know what you are doing - and try anyway."
●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●
Thank you to @authorjessicajames and @lovebookstours for having me on this tour.
April 20, 2026
Imagine you’re me: a certified man hater ™️
Now imagine reading this and crying over Noah and being so giddy over Cole.
I have no shame.
I fully expected Cole to ruin my life.
Anyway, for an actual review:
The writing was easy to get through. There were a couple of times I had to go back and reread a page to see if I missed something. I think there was some abrupt cutoffs between reading the letters and then telling what the letters said. Like one on page she was reading them and then the next she was meeting up with Cole discussing letters she had read but we didn’t “see” her read. I’m sure that was so it didn’t get too repetitive but it did confuse me a couple times.
The epilogue “teaser” was not it for me so I’m choosing not to believe it. I want more of the main characters but not like this plz (not bad just not for me)
I enjoyed the premise!! Can I also find someone who loves me like Noah loved Abigail?
Thank you NetGalley for the advanced ready copy!
Now imagine reading this and crying over Noah and being so giddy over Cole.
I have no shame.
I fully expected Cole to ruin my life.
Anyway, for an actual review:
The writing was easy to get through. There were a couple of times I had to go back and reread a page to see if I missed something. I think there was some abrupt cutoffs between reading the letters and then telling what the letters said. Like one on page she was reading them and then the next she was meeting up with Cole discussing letters she had read but we didn’t “see” her read. I’m sure that was so it didn’t get too repetitive but it did confuse me a couple times.
The epilogue “teaser” was not it for me so I’m choosing not to believe it. I want more of the main characters but not like this plz (not bad just not for me)
I enjoyed the premise!! Can I also find someone who loves me like Noah loved Abigail?
Thank you NetGalley for the advanced ready copy!
April 24, 2026
If you enjoy suspenseful thrillers mired in historical mystery and painful (in a good way) slow-burn romance, this is the book for you. It was so incredibly atmospheric, and the pacing really helped with that. The book was set in a mountain resort that reminded me of the pace of Southern life more so than anything I'd ever associate with New York - but then it is a place where New Yorkers go to relax, and you could feel it.
But, of course, this wasn't a vacation read - it was mired in political intrigue, historical mysteries, and more than one slow-burn, hidden romance. And every inch of it was delightful! You absolutely want to pick up this book if any of those genres are your jam. The author's lyrical and descriptive writing style built the frustration and suspense so well that I cried along with the characters, and my heartbeat was racing alongside them!
I am not sure I quite understood what I was signing up for when I picked this up, but I'm so excited for what I read. It was just not really like anything I've ever read before. Historical books are usually set in history, but this one gave us history through the setting, through letters, and other discoverable items from the past. Our main characters were an interesting pair of sleuths - a journalist (fairly typical) and a security guy (not typical, but similar, I guess, to a cop). But the bad guys, wow, they were something else! The level of conspiracy wrapped up in this story almost seems impossible and fantastical, but only if you've been living under a rock for the past several years.
The story is apparently based on some truth, and I'll definitely be investigating that! I love reading the kind of book that sends me on a research adventure! I can't wait to see more by this author!
But, of course, this wasn't a vacation read - it was mired in political intrigue, historical mysteries, and more than one slow-burn, hidden romance. And every inch of it was delightful! You absolutely want to pick up this book if any of those genres are your jam. The author's lyrical and descriptive writing style built the frustration and suspense so well that I cried along with the characters, and my heartbeat was racing alongside them!
I am not sure I quite understood what I was signing up for when I picked this up, but I'm so excited for what I read. It was just not really like anything I've ever read before. Historical books are usually set in history, but this one gave us history through the setting, through letters, and other discoverable items from the past. Our main characters were an interesting pair of sleuths - a journalist (fairly typical) and a security guy (not typical, but similar, I guess, to a cop). But the bad guys, wow, they were something else! The level of conspiracy wrapped up in this story almost seems impossible and fantastical, but only if you've been living under a rock for the past several years.
The story is apparently based on some truth, and I'll definitely be investigating that! I love reading the kind of book that sends me on a research adventure! I can't wait to see more by this author!
Currently Reading
April 15, 2026Need a reason to put The Monarch Alliance: A Dual-Timeline Historical Mystery with a Hidden Pact and a Secret Society on your TBR pile?
So happy to announce that The Monarch Alliance is a Silver Winner in the Readers Choice Book Awards! https://www.readerschoicebookawards.c...
The Video Book Trailer for The Monarch Alliance is out! TheMonarchAlliance
Here's what reviewers are saying:
“James crafts a suspenseful and delicate walk between mystery, history, and thriller tension.” – Senior Reviewer, Midwest Book Review
A masterfully crafted, utterly captivating novel." – Luxe Beat Magazine
“This clever story is a cross between historical fiction and contemporary mystery.” – Inga Buccella, Readers’ Favorite
So happy to announce that The Monarch Alliance is a Silver Winner in the Readers Choice Book Awards! https://www.readerschoicebookawards.c...
The Video Book Trailer for The Monarch Alliance is out! TheMonarchAlliance
Here's what reviewers are saying:
“James crafts a suspenseful and delicate walk between mystery, history, and thriller tension.” – Senior Reviewer, Midwest Book Review
A masterfully crafted, utterly captivating novel." – Luxe Beat Magazine
“This clever story is a cross between historical fiction and contemporary mystery.” – Inga Buccella, Readers’ Favorite
April 22, 2026
I really enjoyed this story that mixed power, manipulation of truth, and danger with history and secrets from the past. Danika, a disgraced journalist, travels to Mohonk Mountain House to relax and figure out the secret in letters to her great-grandmother sent from the resort. To get a reservation she may have stretched the truth about her credentials as a peace summit is scheduled during her time at the resort. Cole, the head of security for the event, has doubts about Danika even as he is drawn to her. When he uncovers her purpose they join forces to decipher the letters and find if a peace pact from the past exists before it is destroyed forever. The closer they get to the truth the more dangerous it becomes as the men in powerful want the secret to remain hidden and destroyed.
The story and the characters were interesting and captured my attention. I especially enjoyed the letters and how they contained a connection to the past and the answer to the mystery. I also enjoyed the connection between Danika and Cole and how the relationship evolved and grew. The way the men in power manipulated and used journalists to make the lies the truth was insightful and disturbing. This quote, “Fact by repetition. Truth by echo.” captures it and I can’t stop thinking about it. This book was more complex and layered than I expected and the more I read the more I enjoyed it. The author included extensive details of the historical past of the Mohonk Mountain House and the role it played in the book which I found fascinating and really appreciated..
I highly recommend this book to readers that enjoy multilayered books that mix mystery and historical fiction.
Thanks to Love Book Tours for the free, gifted copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The story and the characters were interesting and captured my attention. I especially enjoyed the letters and how they contained a connection to the past and the answer to the mystery. I also enjoyed the connection between Danika and Cole and how the relationship evolved and grew. The way the men in power manipulated and used journalists to make the lies the truth was insightful and disturbing. This quote, “Fact by repetition. Truth by echo.” captures it and I can’t stop thinking about it. This book was more complex and layered than I expected and the more I read the more I enjoyed it. The author included extensive details of the historical past of the Mohonk Mountain House and the role it played in the book which I found fascinating and really appreciated..
I highly recommend this book to readers that enjoy multilayered books that mix mystery and historical fiction.
Thanks to Love Book Tours for the free, gifted copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Currently Reading
May 6, 2026Excited to announce a VIP READER GIVEAWAY for The Monarch Alliance! Get the brooch I wore while writing the novel, along with a pair of earrings and pocket watch locket necklace!
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https://sweepwidget.com/c/99054-lianqhk4
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GLH26QQS
Barnes and Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-...
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/books/d...
All Retailers: https://books2read.com/u/3G0ABr
Apple: https://books.apple.com/us/book/the-m...
Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/the-...
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Review of advance copy received from Publisher
The Monarch Alliance – Jessica James – Patriot Press - 9781941020517 – Kindle edition $6.99
A mystery, a thriller, a romance, all of these. A young reporter travels to an exclusive resort in the Hudson River Valley to research what she knows will be a secret conference between movers and shakers in international politics and finance. She finds the Mohonk Mountain House to be a luxurious and extensive campus of gardens, paths, historic structures and of course, many, many rooms dedicated to meetings and clandestine skullduggery. She suspects that sinister plots will be hatched, vastly enriching the participants in the conference. What she discovers is worse even than she imagined, but there is a faint ray of hope provided by the existence of a pact made nearly a century before in the same place assuring world peace. Her hope is that the revelation of this document will reveal that the “Monarch Alliance”, which has become a cabal of arms manufacturers and political manipulators was originally dedicated to peaceful ideals. The exposure of its original purposes will show that the current organization has been corrupted and should be destroyed or rebuilt.
Upon arrival she adopts an alias to conceal her journalistic credentials but is nearly immediately found out by the head of security, a taciturn and vaguely menacing individual who becomes, bit by bit, convinced of her sincerity in seeking truth and right. As they both learn, their goals are matched in their belief in the historic and now hidden pact secreted somewhere on the site. They become tentative conspirators and eventually come to trust each other implicitly. As time progresses, a delicate truce and even a romance emerges between them and they become bonded.
The suspense in this complex tale of politics, money and corruption is palpable and maintained at a high level keeping the reader riveted to the page. The budding romance between unlikely characters is handled with delicacy and taste but is compelling in its progress. Altogether nicely constructed, this tale will keep readers of thrillers and mysteries interested, and the touches of romantic elements are handled skillfully.
Shelf Talker: A thriller, a mystery, a romance, all skillfully to constructed keep the reader in suspense, this nicely written tale of politics, money and corruption will satisfy fans of all types.
A mystery, a thriller, a romance, all of these. A young reporter travels to an exclusive resort in the Hudson River Valley to research what she knows will be a secret conference between movers and shakers in international politics and finance. She finds the Mohonk Mountain House to be a luxurious and extensive campus of gardens, paths, historic structures and of course, many, many rooms dedicated to meetings and clandestine skullduggery. She suspects that sinister plots will be hatched, vastly enriching the participants in the conference. What she discovers is worse even than she imagined, but there is a faint ray of hope provided by the existence of a pact made nearly a century before in the same place assuring world peace. Her hope is that the revelation of this document will reveal that the “Monarch Alliance”, which has become a cabal of arms manufacturers and political manipulators was originally dedicated to peaceful ideals. The exposure of its original purposes will show that the current organization has been corrupted and should be destroyed or rebuilt.
Upon arrival she adopts an alias to conceal her journalistic credentials but is nearly immediately found out by the head of security, a taciturn and vaguely menacing individual who becomes, bit by bit, convinced of her sincerity in seeking truth and right. As they both learn, their goals are matched in their belief in the historic and now hidden pact secreted somewhere on the site. They become tentative conspirators and eventually come to trust each other implicitly. As time progresses, a delicate truce and even a romance emerges between them and they become bonded.
The suspense in this complex tale of politics, money and corruption is palpable and maintained at a high level keeping the reader riveted to the page. The budding romance between unlikely characters is handled with delicacy and taste but is compelling in its progress. Altogether nicely constructed, this tale will keep readers of thrillers and mysteries interested, and the touches of romantic elements are handled skillfully.
Shelf Talker: A thriller, a mystery, a romance, all skillfully to constructed keep the reader in suspense, this nicely written tale of politics, money and corruption will satisfy fans of all types.
April 21, 2026
Jessica James has crafted a chillingly timely story in The Monarch Alliance.
When is a peace conference not a peace conference? When the participants want to stoke conflict and uncertainty.
That’s what Danika Vaughn, investigative reporter, and Cole McCain, head of security at the resort hosting the conference, realize.
The two race against time to find a peace agreement that was thought lost to history and which can upend the current conference’s nefarious goals. But the secret is hidden in the letters from Danika’s great-grandmother from the turn of the twentieth century, and they are nothing if not cryptic.
The Monarch Alliance is a dual-timeline historical mystery, but it’s much more than that. Part suspense, part romance, this book is satisfying on so many levels.
The contrast of the idyllic setting of Mohonk Mountain House, a real resort in the Hudson Valley, with the covert maneuverings of both Danika and Cole, on one side and the high-level participants of the conference on the other, created tension that kept me on the edge of my seat and turning pages.
The main characters are realistic, flawed, and easy to root for. The slow unfolding of Cole’s past added another layer of intrigue to the story. Wait. There’s the sporadic appearance of a Hollywood movie star that had me wondering throughout the story. (I can’t tell you why he was there, though.)
The plot is not only plausible, but it feels as if it were ripped out of today’s headlines. Jessica James has created a story where past and present collide, putting everyone’s future at risk.
The Monarch Alliance has something for history lovers and political junkies alike. (Wait, I’m both.)
My Rating: 4.75 stars
Reviewed by: Terry
This review first appeared: https://substack.com/@nnlightsbookhea...
When is a peace conference not a peace conference? When the participants want to stoke conflict and uncertainty.
That’s what Danika Vaughn, investigative reporter, and Cole McCain, head of security at the resort hosting the conference, realize.
The two race against time to find a peace agreement that was thought lost to history and which can upend the current conference’s nefarious goals. But the secret is hidden in the letters from Danika’s great-grandmother from the turn of the twentieth century, and they are nothing if not cryptic.
The Monarch Alliance is a dual-timeline historical mystery, but it’s much more than that. Part suspense, part romance, this book is satisfying on so many levels.
The contrast of the idyllic setting of Mohonk Mountain House, a real resort in the Hudson Valley, with the covert maneuverings of both Danika and Cole, on one side and the high-level participants of the conference on the other, created tension that kept me on the edge of my seat and turning pages.
The main characters are realistic, flawed, and easy to root for. The slow unfolding of Cole’s past added another layer of intrigue to the story. Wait. There’s the sporadic appearance of a Hollywood movie star that had me wondering throughout the story. (I can’t tell you why he was there, though.)
The plot is not only plausible, but it feels as if it were ripped out of today’s headlines. Jessica James has created a story where past and present collide, putting everyone’s future at risk.
The Monarch Alliance has something for history lovers and political junkies alike. (Wait, I’m both.)
My Rating: 4.75 stars
Reviewed by: Terry
This review first appeared: https://substack.com/@nnlightsbookhea...
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
4.5 / 5.0 Stars
This dual timeline (early 20th century/current day) suspenseful mystery transports the reader to the Mohonk Mountain House, situated above the Hudson Valley. This grand retreat, a bit away from the city's bustle, was built in 1869 by Albert Smiley and still welcomes vacationers to this day. What a glorious setting for this fun and adventurous tale.
It is also where our protagonist, political journalist Danika Vaughn, has run off to for a month of rest and rejuvenation. While prepping the house for sale, she discovered a passel of letters in her grandmother's attic, all of which were received from Mohonk Mountain House and curiously addressed to her great-grandmother. Danika settles in at Mohonk and discovers that an international peace conference is about to commence. While there, she encounters a number of interesting characters, including a much beloved movie star from her childhood. But it's Cole McCain, head of security, with whom she soon crosses paths. Initially, neither trusts the other. He's on the hunt for a missing historical document and she has historical letters which may well provide clues in that hunt. Time is of the essence and other bad actors are on scene. Can this unusual duo suss it all out and save the day? Only time will tell.
This was a delightful and engaging read. The prose is lovely and at times poetic. The mise-en-scène is richly imagined and exquisitely delivered, enticing the reader to visit this mountain aerie. The characters are well developed and their encounters emotional and intense. The suspense builds steadily through the book and leaves the reader with a hope for a continuing saga of this amazing duo.
I am grateful to Jessica James and Patriot Press for having provided a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. Their generosity, however, has not influenced this review - the words of which are mine alone.
Publisher: Patriot Press
Publication date: April 21, 2026
Number or Pages: 423
ASIN: B0GLH26QQS
File size: 4.8 MB
This dual timeline (early 20th century/current day) suspenseful mystery transports the reader to the Mohonk Mountain House, situated above the Hudson Valley. This grand retreat, a bit away from the city's bustle, was built in 1869 by Albert Smiley and still welcomes vacationers to this day. What a glorious setting for this fun and adventurous tale.
It is also where our protagonist, political journalist Danika Vaughn, has run off to for a month of rest and rejuvenation. While prepping the house for sale, she discovered a passel of letters in her grandmother's attic, all of which were received from Mohonk Mountain House and curiously addressed to her great-grandmother. Danika settles in at Mohonk and discovers that an international peace conference is about to commence. While there, she encounters a number of interesting characters, including a much beloved movie star from her childhood. But it's Cole McCain, head of security, with whom she soon crosses paths. Initially, neither trusts the other. He's on the hunt for a missing historical document and she has historical letters which may well provide clues in that hunt. Time is of the essence and other bad actors are on scene. Can this unusual duo suss it all out and save the day? Only time will tell.
This was a delightful and engaging read. The prose is lovely and at times poetic. The mise-en-scène is richly imagined and exquisitely delivered, enticing the reader to visit this mountain aerie. The characters are well developed and their encounters emotional and intense. The suspense builds steadily through the book and leaves the reader with a hope for a continuing saga of this amazing duo.
I am grateful to Jessica James and Patriot Press for having provided a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. Their generosity, however, has not influenced this review - the words of which are mine alone.
Publisher: Patriot Press
Publication date: April 21, 2026
Number or Pages: 423
ASIN: B0GLH26QQS
File size: 4.8 MB
Review of advance copy
First things first, my heart is fully contented with the ending. It made the plot twists worth it. The Monarch Alliance is a fast-paced mystery exploring the duality of timelines in one narrative.
The letters to her great-grandmother might be more than love letters. A love so profound it bypasses time. What started so innocently for Danika holds a truth that could make or break lives. Entrusting Cole with her findings happens to be another risk. Who can be trusted in Danika’s eyes?
I barely blinked reading this book. From start to finish my attention was fully grabbed. The pacing as clues are lost and others found keeps readers engaged as the narrative steadily unravels. The author’s ability to include letters from the past while focusing on the present is admirable. Jessica James writes descriptively, as one feels the longing between Noah and Abigail.
The characters were developed well from the start to the end. The book is strongly plot-driven, featuring themes of love, loss, teamwork, secrets, and past collaborations. I would love to read a book of Noah and Abigail through the letters in this story; my curiosity is piqued. I highly recommend this book to lovers of mystery.
The letters to her great-grandmother might be more than love letters. A love so profound it bypasses time. What started so innocently for Danika holds a truth that could make or break lives. Entrusting Cole with her findings happens to be another risk. Who can be trusted in Danika’s eyes?
I barely blinked reading this book. From start to finish my attention was fully grabbed. The pacing as clues are lost and others found keeps readers engaged as the narrative steadily unravels. The author’s ability to include letters from the past while focusing on the present is admirable. Jessica James writes descriptively, as one feels the longing between Noah and Abigail.
The characters were developed well from the start to the end. The book is strongly plot-driven, featuring themes of love, loss, teamwork, secrets, and past collaborations. I would love to read a book of Noah and Abigail through the letters in this story; my curiosity is piqued. I highly recommend this book to lovers of mystery.
Review of advance copy
Genre: Historical/Mystery /Suspense
Publisher: Patriot Press
5 stars for this treasure!
Holy moly! If you are looking for a treasure hunt with a touch of politics, look no further than this book. Did you ever start reading a book and have things to do and just tell yourself "just one more chapter"? Yeah, well that is exactly what just happened to me and I have neglected all tasks that needed to be performed today. I could not put it down! Danika (Dani) arrives at what I can only imagine is an high end inn with roots as deep as 500 year old trees. She went looking for answers about her heritage and opened up a can of worms, looking for a peace document allegedly written and signed there many, many years ago. With the help of her friend, Cole, they unearth secrets kept within the walls of the estate. But will they run out of time before the evil politicians get their hands on it to wreck havoc? Guess you'll have to read it to find out. Bonus, at the end of the book, there is a link to read the epilogue. I loved that I got the ending I was hoping for. Brilliant work!
Publisher: Patriot Press
5 stars for this treasure!
Holy moly! If you are looking for a treasure hunt with a touch of politics, look no further than this book. Did you ever start reading a book and have things to do and just tell yourself "just one more chapter"? Yeah, well that is exactly what just happened to me and I have neglected all tasks that needed to be performed today. I could not put it down! Danika (Dani) arrives at what I can only imagine is an high end inn with roots as deep as 500 year old trees. She went looking for answers about her heritage and opened up a can of worms, looking for a peace document allegedly written and signed there many, many years ago. With the help of her friend, Cole, they unearth secrets kept within the walls of the estate. But will they run out of time before the evil politicians get their hands on it to wreck havoc? Guess you'll have to read it to find out. Bonus, at the end of the book, there is a link to read the epilogue. I loved that I got the ending I was hoping for. Brilliant work!
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Monarch Alliance was a really engaging read from start to finish. The story pulls you in with strong characters and a steady pace that keeps things interesting without feeling rushed. I especially liked how the author balanced emotion with plot, there’s enough depth to care about what’s happening, but it never gets bogged down. Overall, it felt like a well-told story that sticks with you after you finish.
Review of advance copy
Monarch is one of those books that’s easy to get lost in.
The characters feel believable, and the story unfolds in a way that keeps you curious about what’s coming next.
There is a bit of time jumping and a mystery that is challenging and keeps you questioning what happened and what will happen.
I appreciated how the author took time to build the world without making it feel slow.
It’s thoughtful, engaging, exciting, mysterious and well worth the read.
The characters feel believable, and the story unfolds in a way that keeps you curious about what’s coming next.
There is a bit of time jumping and a mystery that is challenging and keeps you questioning what happened and what will happen.
I appreciated how the author took time to build the world without making it feel slow.
It’s thoughtful, engaging, exciting, mysterious and well worth the read.
April 21, 2026
She is left with a ruin reputation after trying to make her name with a report which upset those in higher places. She goes to the retreat for some peace and relaxation but she is about to in the centre of a peace conference. She hides away reading letters and showing a truth they want kept hidden, she will get help but it is going to get extremely dangerous. See just how it will all go
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and was a brilliant read
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and was a brilliant read
Review of advance copy received from Author
I enjoyed Monarch more than I expected. It has a nice mix of character development and storytelling that keeps you turning the pages. The writing feels natural and easy to follow, and the themes come through without being overdone. It’s the kind of book that quietly draws you in and leaves a lasting impression.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Monarch Alliance is a very well-told and intriguing story. I was especially happy to learn that the story is rooted in historical fact (and now I want to visit this area in New York state!). The mystery is revealed in pieces, so it doesn’t overwhelm; yet it also feels organic and not plotted heavily in any way. While I would have liked a bit more about the Quaker culture to give some background and depth to Noah and his quest for peace, the general information was good enough for background and didn’t slow down the pacing of the storytelling. I really enjoyed reading it.
(One critique that could be located just in the advance copy I read for review: why do the main characters always rub their temples? Inquiring minds--and temples--want to know.)
(One critique that could be located just in the advance copy I read for review: why do the main characters always rub their temples? Inquiring minds--and temples--want to know.)
May 7, 2026
My yardstick for measuring the quality of a writer is the ease "mind movies" appear while reading the story. Jessica James writes with such descriptive flair that the images are instant and fluid. Monarch Alliance is an excellent story written with exceptional clarity. If you haven't discovered Jessica's catalog yet look for it. I haven't been disappointed in any of her titles.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Monarch Alliance has a good balance of storytelling and emotional depth, and the characters feel real enough to connect with. The pacing works well, and nothing feels out of place. By the end, I felt satisfied with the journey, which is always a good sign of a well-written book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A book with a satisfying and gentle ending containing lots of good stuff in between two covers.
James’s strength lies in superb world-building and character depth. Her people undergo a slow burn to arc and become who they are by the climax. Through dialogue, gesture, and lots of critical thinking, her two protagonists: Danika and Cole are really fleshed out and believable.
That being said; the best part of this novel for me was the world-building. I had never heard of the Mohonk Mountain House, but it’s a real place and its historical, scenic setting is beautifully written throughout the story. I sense that James herself has been there exploring and sampling the lifestyles that the rich and famous experience in her plot.
From peace-pacts to trail rides, rain-soaked summer-houses to antique Indian statues, this read earns five Mohonk stars!
James’s strength lies in superb world-building and character depth. Her people undergo a slow burn to arc and become who they are by the climax. Through dialogue, gesture, and lots of critical thinking, her two protagonists: Danika and Cole are really fleshed out and believable.
That being said; the best part of this novel for me was the world-building. I had never heard of the Mohonk Mountain House, but it’s a real place and its historical, scenic setting is beautifully written throughout the story. I sense that James herself has been there exploring and sampling the lifestyles that the rich and famous experience in her plot.
From peace-pacts to trail rides, rain-soaked summer-houses to antique Indian statues, this read earns five Mohonk stars!
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