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Montecito
“A gripping crime drama … an engrossing story … a marvelously entertaining suspense tale. OUR VERDICT: GET IT."
– Kirkus Reviews (Critical Recommendation)
“Anyone interested in a compelling character-driven mystery will devour this story. It’s unlike any crime novel I’ve read before but is no less gripping for it.”
– Independent Book Review (Starred Review)
Montecito: Where having it all sometimes means having the most to hide.
For a smart guy, Hollis Crawford has certainly fouled things up. He planted his family in California’s wealthiest town, backed his wife’s transition from high-powered public relations partner to non-profit volunteer, and then got fired—not once, not twice, but three times. Now, with his savings drained and his prospects dwindling, Hollis is desperate for one last chance to keep his family afloat.
Which is why the mysterious Wimby family—Montecito’s latest imported millionaires—seem heaven sent. Towering Cyrus Wimby commands a sprawling mansion, a winery, and a stunning wife as pedigreed as his stable of horses—a life of wealth and privilege. But Cyrus has his eyes on a bigger prize. To get it, he will need help. The help of someone hungry. Someone desperate. Someone like Hollis.
It’s a chance for Hollis to save his career, his marriage, and his family. All he has to do is say yes …
– Kirkus Reviews (Critical Recommendation)
“Anyone interested in a compelling character-driven mystery will devour this story. It’s unlike any crime novel I’ve read before but is no less gripping for it.”
– Independent Book Review (Starred Review)
Montecito: Where having it all sometimes means having the most to hide.
For a smart guy, Hollis Crawford has certainly fouled things up. He planted his family in California’s wealthiest town, backed his wife’s transition from high-powered public relations partner to non-profit volunteer, and then got fired—not once, not twice, but three times. Now, with his savings drained and his prospects dwindling, Hollis is desperate for one last chance to keep his family afloat.
Which is why the mysterious Wimby family—Montecito’s latest imported millionaires—seem heaven sent. Towering Cyrus Wimby commands a sprawling mansion, a winery, and a stunning wife as pedigreed as his stable of horses—a life of wealth and privilege. But Cyrus has his eyes on a bigger prize. To get it, he will need help. The help of someone hungry. Someone desperate. Someone like Hollis.
It’s a chance for Hollis to save his career, his marriage, and his family. All he has to do is say yes …
326 pages, Paperback
Published June 30, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
June 3, 2026
NetGalley early ARC. A solid 3.5⭐️ rounded up for such a unique and compelling debut. The author does a great job immersing the reader in the world of the novel, especially through the vivid sense of place. Having visited Santa Barbara and heading back again next week, I especially loved how grounded and locally descriptive the setting felt.
The relationship-building was strong, and the emotional dynamics kept me invested throughout. There were definitely moments where I found myself thinking, “Hollis, you are smarter than this — why are you signing these papers?!” And from the very beginning, Vlad felt like one giant red flag.
Knowing the story was inspired by a real-life experience made it all the more unsettling and compelling. A strong debut with an atmospheric setting and enough tension to keep me turning the pages.
The relationship-building was strong, and the emotional dynamics kept me invested throughout. There were definitely moments where I found myself thinking, “Hollis, you are smarter than this — why are you signing these papers?!” And from the very beginning, Vlad felt like one giant red flag.
Knowing the story was inspired by a real-life experience made it all the more unsettling and compelling. A strong debut with an atmospheric setting and enough tension to keep me turning the pages.
July 6, 2026
I received this book as a good reads giveaway. This author was new to me and I was most impressed that the author not only took the time to sign my copy but also include a hand written note thanking the reader. This really showed how much love and care went into making sure each copy felt special and personal.
The story begins with a very complex main character who you struggle to decide if you are rooting for or are rather annoyed by. I enjoyed that he was written to be rather unlikable but you couldn’t help but hope the best for him.
Even though the plot feels pretty predictable in the beginning, it has such a great pace and introduction of characters that I stayed curious throughout. The plot continues to pull enough surprises that I ripped through this on vacation and couldn’t put it down! The promised twists at the end absolutely delivered!
My favorite part is he set this up for a continuation. I look forward to seeing what happens next!
The story begins with a very complex main character who you struggle to decide if you are rooting for or are rather annoyed by. I enjoyed that he was written to be rather unlikable but you couldn’t help but hope the best for him.
Even though the plot feels pretty predictable in the beginning, it has such a great pace and introduction of characters that I stayed curious throughout. The plot continues to pull enough surprises that I ripped through this on vacation and couldn’t put it down! The promised twists at the end absolutely delivered!
My favorite part is he set this up for a continuation. I look forward to seeing what happens next!
July 13, 2026
Mysterious investors? Unsavory foreign characters? Forensic accounting via hacking?
Right up my alley. There was a short portion of the book where I wasn't sure if it was for me, but I was quickly proven wrong. Once the story grows legs and starts running, it doesn't stop. I'm shocked by how few people have read this and I hope that more people will soon read this as well. What a great debut from this new author.
Right up my alley. There was a short portion of the book where I wasn't sure if it was for me, but I was quickly proven wrong. Once the story grows legs and starts running, it doesn't stop. I'm shocked by how few people have read this and I hope that more people will soon read this as well. What a great debut from this new author.
July 1, 2026
My favorite book of the year. The book grabbed my attention from the first chapter. This fast moving novel was compelling, had great characters I was rooting for, and had me gasping out loud at the twists and turn. I enjoyed the setting, it’s almost as if the town of Montecito was a character in the novel. It’s fun to feel like you’re getting an inside peak into the lifestyle of the rich and poorly behaved. “Montecito”has made me a fan of this author, what a home run of a debut novel. I will read any book this author writes.
June 24, 2026
This is really good! It’s an entertaining, engaging thriller that grabbed my attention from the very first chapter.
Hollis is exactly the kind of protagonist you want to root for. He’s brilliant, devoted to his wife and children, and somehow gifted at getting himself fired from one job after another. When he accepts the position of CEO for Cyrus Wimby’s new company, every instinct tells him something isn’t right. And in Hollis’s case, it’s not just a figure of speech, his gut is literally warning him that something is off.
After tragedy strikes his family, Hollis becomes determined to uncover the truth behind Cyrus’s company, no matter how dangerous the answers may be. What follows is a mix of suspense, mystery, and high stakes tension that kept me eagerly turning pages.
The setting is also a standout. With its laid back surfer vibe, and sprawling multimillion dollar estates, Montecito California feels like a character in its own right. The contrast between the idyllic lifestyle and the darker undercurrents is both alluring and unsettling.
Fast paced, intriguing, and filled with mounting suspense, this was a thoroughly enjoyable read that kept me invested until the very end.
Thank you NetGalley and Inveniam Viam Press for this eARC
Hollis is exactly the kind of protagonist you want to root for. He’s brilliant, devoted to his wife and children, and somehow gifted at getting himself fired from one job after another. When he accepts the position of CEO for Cyrus Wimby’s new company, every instinct tells him something isn’t right. And in Hollis’s case, it’s not just a figure of speech, his gut is literally warning him that something is off.
After tragedy strikes his family, Hollis becomes determined to uncover the truth behind Cyrus’s company, no matter how dangerous the answers may be. What follows is a mix of suspense, mystery, and high stakes tension that kept me eagerly turning pages.
The setting is also a standout. With its laid back surfer vibe, and sprawling multimillion dollar estates, Montecito California feels like a character in its own right. The contrast between the idyllic lifestyle and the darker undercurrents is both alluring and unsettling.
Fast paced, intriguing, and filled with mounting suspense, this was a thoroughly enjoyable read that kept me invested until the very end.
Thank you NetGalley and Inveniam Viam Press for this eARC
June 25, 2026
Once this book got going I could not put it down. I felt like I needed as many antacids as Hollis! Pick this up for a good read and cannot wait to see if there is more in store for him.
July 7, 2026
Fast paced, short chapters. (Took a while to read bc of life.) Good tale of mayhem, a little predictable and a little twisty.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Many thanks to NetGalley and Inveniam Viam Press for an early copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
4.25-4.5⭐
I loved this book! I truly feel like I've found a buried treasure in this debut financial thriller, recommended by Kirkus. Montecito takes us to the central coastal California paradise where everyone is rich, everyone is beautiful, and where Hollis Crawford, a smart man and loving husband and father can't seem to keep his mouth shut and keep a job.
When what seems like the opportunity of a lifetime falls randomly in Hollis' life by way of the wildly rich and glamorous Cyrus Whimby, he jumps on it. It's not long though before it becomes evident that something is rotten in Denmark (or in this case, Montecito). Hollis is no fool, and his gut is literally screaming at him that he needs to abort mission, but in his desperation to support his family and be the husband and father he wants to be, he convinces himself he's being paranoid and stays put. But things continue to unravel quickly.
This book is smart and fast paced. Cox worked on Wall Street for years and actually lives in Montecito, so he knows of what he speaks, and that's very evident. In the acknowledgements, he reveals that this book was based on a real case he found himself involved in, which makes it even better. There are some twists at the end, both of which I saw coming, but this didn't take away from my enjoyment. They both tracked with the story and weren't silly.
I also really, really loved Hollis and his family. Even though he makes foolish choices, Hollis is very self aware and taking an honest look at some things he needs to work on. It's also a wonderful depiction of marriage, which I certainly don't expect to find in a book like this. Hollis doesn't just love his wife, he admires her, and it comes across as so genuine. It just added to my enjoyment of the entire story and made me even more invested in how this would all work out. It's also a fascinating examination of how even the most successful and brilliant people can be manipulated by a con with the right amount of ego/greed, and charisma. I thought often of Bernie Madoff and Elizabeth Holmes.
I highly recommend this book! It's a perfect summer read, but great any time of year. Great work, Mr. Cox! I hope we hear more from you in short order.
4.25-4.5⭐
I loved this book! I truly feel like I've found a buried treasure in this debut financial thriller, recommended by Kirkus. Montecito takes us to the central coastal California paradise where everyone is rich, everyone is beautiful, and where Hollis Crawford, a smart man and loving husband and father can't seem to keep his mouth shut and keep a job.
When what seems like the opportunity of a lifetime falls randomly in Hollis' life by way of the wildly rich and glamorous Cyrus Whimby, he jumps on it. It's not long though before it becomes evident that something is rotten in Denmark (or in this case, Montecito). Hollis is no fool, and his gut is literally screaming at him that he needs to abort mission, but in his desperation to support his family and be the husband and father he wants to be, he convinces himself he's being paranoid and stays put. But things continue to unravel quickly.
This book is smart and fast paced. Cox worked on Wall Street for years and actually lives in Montecito, so he knows of what he speaks, and that's very evident. In the acknowledgements, he reveals that this book was based on a real case he found himself involved in, which makes it even better. There are some twists at the end, both of which I saw coming, but this didn't take away from my enjoyment. They both tracked with the story and weren't silly.
I also really, really loved Hollis and his family. Even though he makes foolish choices, Hollis is very self aware and taking an honest look at some things he needs to work on. It's also a wonderful depiction of marriage, which I certainly don't expect to find in a book like this. Hollis doesn't just love his wife, he admires her, and it comes across as so genuine. It just added to my enjoyment of the entire story and made me even more invested in how this would all work out. It's also a fascinating examination of how even the most successful and brilliant people can be manipulated by a con with the right amount of ego/greed, and charisma. I thought often of Bernie Madoff and Elizabeth Holmes.
I highly recommend this book! It's a perfect summer read, but great any time of year. Great work, Mr. Cox! I hope we hear more from you in short order.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A true five star read!
Knowing this was inspired by a true story made it all the more compelling. Hollis Crawford - if you don't know someone just like him, you are likely just like him yourself. Intelligent but invisible, reticent and yet argumentative; he describes his likely neurodivergence as 'the fog'. I can honestly relate to Hollis in many ways. Self-deprecating and really quite funny, and a truly loving family man who just wants to make his family proud. After losing three jobs he feels quite helpless and lost and that's when he literally stumbles into the world of Cyrus Wimby.
Cyrus is like the sun and everyone else oribits around him. Physically commanding and attractive and with a golden tongue, he lures people to his snake-pit in the sun of Montecito. The enclave of paradise for those that can afford it. With platitudes and promises he builds up our friend Hollis to feel like he just might be able to come through with earning the pride of his family after all. A job offer that seems to good to be true leads Hollis to the gateway of greed, fraud and corruption. But Cyrus only ever wanted Hollis as a figure head, someone to sign signatures and dance to the beat of his drum.
It doesn't take long for Hollis to start to suspect something isn't right, but he feels like he just can't take another punch to the gut, so tries to stay positive and trust Cyrus. This is where the reader starts yelling at the book - "Hollis ffs", "You have to do something NOW Hollis", "Don't sign it Hollis, DO NOT SIGN IT"...
And then as things continue to spiral and get dangerous, you sit on the edge of your seat just waiting and WHAT AN ENDING!
I highly recommend this book for the beautiful writing, the fully-fleshed out characters, the perfectly described setting and a truly gripping literary crime/mystery. I can't wait for Michael Cox's next book!
Much thanks to NetGalley and Inveniam Press for the ARC.
Knowing this was inspired by a true story made it all the more compelling. Hollis Crawford - if you don't know someone just like him, you are likely just like him yourself. Intelligent but invisible, reticent and yet argumentative; he describes his likely neurodivergence as 'the fog'. I can honestly relate to Hollis in many ways. Self-deprecating and really quite funny, and a truly loving family man who just wants to make his family proud. After losing three jobs he feels quite helpless and lost and that's when he literally stumbles into the world of Cyrus Wimby.
Cyrus is like the sun and everyone else oribits around him. Physically commanding and attractive and with a golden tongue, he lures people to his snake-pit in the sun of Montecito. The enclave of paradise for those that can afford it. With platitudes and promises he builds up our friend Hollis to feel like he just might be able to come through with earning the pride of his family after all. A job offer that seems to good to be true leads Hollis to the gateway of greed, fraud and corruption. But Cyrus only ever wanted Hollis as a figure head, someone to sign signatures and dance to the beat of his drum.
It doesn't take long for Hollis to start to suspect something isn't right, but he feels like he just can't take another punch to the gut, so tries to stay positive and trust Cyrus. This is where the reader starts yelling at the book - "Hollis ffs", "You have to do something NOW Hollis", "Don't sign it Hollis, DO NOT SIGN IT"...
And then as things continue to spiral and get dangerous, you sit on the edge of your seat just waiting and WHAT AN ENDING!
I highly recommend this book for the beautiful writing, the fully-fleshed out characters, the perfectly described setting and a truly gripping literary crime/mystery. I can't wait for Michael Cox's next book!
Much thanks to NetGalley and Inveniam Press for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is one of those books where you’re not just reading… you’re actively talking to the main character the entire time.
Like, Hollis… what are you doing??
Set in Montecito, everything looks polished, wealthy, and put together—but underneath it’s all pressure, appearances, and people trying to hold onto a lifestyle they can’t afford to lose. That tension is there from the very beginning.
Hollis is hanging on by a thread—lost jobs, money slipping, trying to keep his family in a life that clearly isn’t sustainable anymore. And when Cyrus Wimby steps in with what looks like a solution, you already know… this is not going to end well.
And Hollis knows it too.
That’s what got me.
He knows something isn’t right, and he still keeps saying yes. Every time you think, okay this is where he’s going to stop, he doesn’t. It’s that slow spiral where you’re literally reading like:
“Just walk away. Please just walk away.”
But he doesn’t—and you can’t look away either.
Cyrus brings that quiet, controlled kind of tension. He never fully shows his hand, and that uneasiness carries through the entire book. This isn’t a twist-every-five-pages thriller—it’s more about watching how far someone will go when they feel like they have no other choice.
The pacing builds steadily, and the pressure just keeps stacking. It’s less about shock value and more about that constant feeling that everything is about to fall apart.
And the ending? It delivers.
For me, this was such a bingeable read because I needed to see how it was all going to play out—even while being completely frustrated with Hollis the whole time.
4 stars — if you like character-driven thrillers where you’re yelling at the main character but still can’t stop reading, this one hits.
Like, Hollis… what are you doing??
Set in Montecito, everything looks polished, wealthy, and put together—but underneath it’s all pressure, appearances, and people trying to hold onto a lifestyle they can’t afford to lose. That tension is there from the very beginning.
Hollis is hanging on by a thread—lost jobs, money slipping, trying to keep his family in a life that clearly isn’t sustainable anymore. And when Cyrus Wimby steps in with what looks like a solution, you already know… this is not going to end well.
And Hollis knows it too.
That’s what got me.
He knows something isn’t right, and he still keeps saying yes. Every time you think, okay this is where he’s going to stop, he doesn’t. It’s that slow spiral where you’re literally reading like:
“Just walk away. Please just walk away.”
But he doesn’t—and you can’t look away either.
Cyrus brings that quiet, controlled kind of tension. He never fully shows his hand, and that uneasiness carries through the entire book. This isn’t a twist-every-five-pages thriller—it’s more about watching how far someone will go when they feel like they have no other choice.
The pacing builds steadily, and the pressure just keeps stacking. It’s less about shock value and more about that constant feeling that everything is about to fall apart.
And the ending? It delivers.
For me, this was such a bingeable read because I needed to see how it was all going to play out—even while being completely frustrated with Hollis the whole time.
4 stars — if you like character-driven thrillers where you’re yelling at the main character but still can’t stop reading, this one hits.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I loved Montecito!
When Hollis Crawford lost his third job, I thought it was going to be a heartbreaking story. There were serious incidents in this story, but mostly, I winced and shook my head when Hollis agreed to work with the smarmy Cyrus Wimby.
The setting is the name of the novel, and everyone is very rich. Oprah Winfrey is a regular at places the Crawford family frequents. Cyrus and his beautiful wife, Genevieve, are newcomers. The couple throws large dinner parties at their palatial home, talk about wanting to make friends in their new community. Besides the Hollis family, all the guests are rich and well placed in the world of corporate money. Cyrus makes one mistake that turns this satire into a suspense thriller. He says, 'Yes.'
Michael Cox has written a sly, tongue-in-cheek thriller. I enjoyed the ridiculous millionaire lifestyle details and felt the right amount of angst over how it would all turn out. I'm predicting much success for this debut novel!
Thank you to Inveniam Viam Press via NetGalley for this digital ARC. The book will be published on June 30, 2026.
When Hollis Crawford lost his third job, I thought it was going to be a heartbreaking story. There were serious incidents in this story, but mostly, I winced and shook my head when Hollis agreed to work with the smarmy Cyrus Wimby.
The setting is the name of the novel, and everyone is very rich. Oprah Winfrey is a regular at places the Crawford family frequents. Cyrus and his beautiful wife, Genevieve, are newcomers. The couple throws large dinner parties at their palatial home, talk about wanting to make friends in their new community. Besides the Hollis family, all the guests are rich and well placed in the world of corporate money. Cyrus makes one mistake that turns this satire into a suspense thriller. He says, 'Yes.'
Michael Cox has written a sly, tongue-in-cheek thriller. I enjoyed the ridiculous millionaire lifestyle details and felt the right amount of angst over how it would all turn out. I'm predicting much success for this debut novel!
Thank you to Inveniam Viam Press via NetGalley for this digital ARC. The book will be published on June 30, 2026.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Michael Cox’s Montecito is a smart, gripping thriller that pulls back the curtain on the wealth, beauty, and hidden dangers of one of America’s most exclusive communities. Set in glamorous Montecito, the story feels especially timely, blending suspense with real-world scandal in a way that makes it hard to put down.
Cox does a fantastic job capturing both the allure of Montecito and the darker side of ambition, status, and desperation. The story is fast-paced, full of twists, and made even more fascinating by its basis in true events that still feel relevant today. For anyone who loves Montecito, the setting adds an extra layer of enjoyment.
What I really appreciated was that Montecito isn’t just a thriller—it also explores how easily people can get caught up in appearances, power, and bad decisions. It’s an entertaining, thoughtful read that feels both escapist and very current.
If you enjoy thrillers set in affluent communities with a true-crime edge, this is definitely worth picking up.
Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC
Cox does a fantastic job capturing both the allure of Montecito and the darker side of ambition, status, and desperation. The story is fast-paced, full of twists, and made even more fascinating by its basis in true events that still feel relevant today. For anyone who loves Montecito, the setting adds an extra layer of enjoyment.
What I really appreciated was that Montecito isn’t just a thriller—it also explores how easily people can get caught up in appearances, power, and bad decisions. It’s an entertaining, thoughtful read that feels both escapist and very current.
If you enjoy thrillers set in affluent communities with a true-crime edge, this is definitely worth picking up.
Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
What a crazy ride!
Montecito drops you into a polished, extravagant, and polished world. The suspense never stops.
Hollis Crawford is on the brink. He has lost multiple jobs, and his financial security is slipping. The life he built in one of California's wealthiest enclaves with his lovely wife and two kids is unsustainable. When the Wimby family enters the scene, they offer him a way back in, and the Cox sets up the central tension: how far will someone go to keep up appearances?
The story follows Hollis as he becomes closely entangled with Cyrus Wimby, who exudes wealth but never explains it. The opportunity Cyrus has offered feels like a rescue, but it quickly becomes clear that the opportunity is one of complicity, one that Hollis can barely stomach.
The pacing is excellent as Hollis slowly trades away his integrity and his freedom. This is a character-driven thriller that focuses less on shocking twists and more on the gradual erosion of safety. What in the world can Hollis do to save himself and his family? The end is stupendous, and this is a standout book!
Montecito drops you into a polished, extravagant, and polished world. The suspense never stops.
Hollis Crawford is on the brink. He has lost multiple jobs, and his financial security is slipping. The life he built in one of California's wealthiest enclaves with his lovely wife and two kids is unsustainable. When the Wimby family enters the scene, they offer him a way back in, and the Cox sets up the central tension: how far will someone go to keep up appearances?
The story follows Hollis as he becomes closely entangled with Cyrus Wimby, who exudes wealth but never explains it. The opportunity Cyrus has offered feels like a rescue, but it quickly becomes clear that the opportunity is one of complicity, one that Hollis can barely stomach.
The pacing is excellent as Hollis slowly trades away his integrity and his freedom. This is a character-driven thriller that focuses less on shocking twists and more on the gradual erosion of safety. What in the world can Hollis do to save himself and his family? The end is stupendous, and this is a standout book!
July 7, 2026
Hollis is a very messed up man. He has been fired three times, always because he never could keep quiet and spoke up for what he felt was right but was not considered right by the big boss. Now in an affluent neighbourhood with fancy house neighbours, he is trying to do right by his very supportive family. Keeping up with the Joneses is not going to be easy.
A chance encounter turns out into what is supposedly a lucrative business offer, but what is too good to be true is really just that. Obvious from the word go, Hollis is taken for a ride from the word go, and unfortunately because he never disclosed the nitty gritty to his astute wife, he sailed on more and more towards disaster. How unsuspecting a manager could be is astounding in this story. Almost stupid.
It does get sorted in the end with murder, international money laundering, the Soviets getting involved and the FBI. That Hollis escaped with his life is a miracle.
The story is based on a real life experience, which makes it rather depressing. But it is a tense story nevertheless.
A chance encounter turns out into what is supposedly a lucrative business offer, but what is too good to be true is really just that. Obvious from the word go, Hollis is taken for a ride from the word go, and unfortunately because he never disclosed the nitty gritty to his astute wife, he sailed on more and more towards disaster. How unsuspecting a manager could be is astounding in this story. Almost stupid.
It does get sorted in the end with murder, international money laundering, the Soviets getting involved and the FBI. That Hollis escaped with his life is a miracle.
The story is based on a real life experience, which makes it rather depressing. But it is a tense story nevertheless.
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
Montecito is an engaging mystery novel that combines suspense, family drama, and secrets hidden beneath the surface of a wealthy California community. Michael Cox creates an intriguing story filled with unexpected twists, complex relationships, and characters whose motivations are not always clear. As the mystery unfolds, readers are drawn deeper into a world where appearances can be deceiving.
One of the book’s strengths is its vivid setting, which brings the upscale town of Montecito to life. The author does an excellent job building tension and keeping the reader guessing about what will happen next. The characters are believable, and their personal struggles add emotional depth to the story.
Overall, Montecito is a compelling and entertaining read for fans of mystery and suspense. I enjoyed the combination of drama, intrigue, and strong storytelling, and I would recommend it to readers who enjoy novels filled with secrets, twists, and unexpected revelations.
One of the book’s strengths is its vivid setting, which brings the upscale town of Montecito to life. The author does an excellent job building tension and keeping the reader guessing about what will happen next. The characters are believable, and their personal struggles add emotional depth to the story.
Overall, Montecito is a compelling and entertaining read for fans of mystery and suspense. I enjoyed the combination of drama, intrigue, and strong storytelling, and I would recommend it to readers who enjoy novels filled with secrets, twists, and unexpected revelations.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Hollis Crawford is smart, very smart. The I-told-you-so kind of smart. The kind that gets you pissing off the CEO and sacked kind of smart.
Questioning his whole existence and desperate for a break, Hollis meets Cyrus Wimby. Handsome, intelligent, charming. Cyrus is the lifeline Hollis needs.
As Hollis rebrands himself into lackey-in-chief, desperate to prove himself, he can't quite silence the niggling in the back of his mind. How much does he know about Cyrus exactly?
A smart, page-tuning mystery that draws you into the dazzling world of Montecito!
If you want:
1. an immersive, dazzling setting
2. an anti-hero you want to root for
3. fantastic writing that keeps you completely hooked
4. and a mystery to die for
then GET THIS BOOK!
All it takes is one little "yes"....
Questioning his whole existence and desperate for a break, Hollis meets Cyrus Wimby. Handsome, intelligent, charming. Cyrus is the lifeline Hollis needs.
As Hollis rebrands himself into lackey-in-chief, desperate to prove himself, he can't quite silence the niggling in the back of his mind. How much does he know about Cyrus exactly?
A smart, page-tuning mystery that draws you into the dazzling world of Montecito!
If you want:
1. an immersive, dazzling setting
2. an anti-hero you want to root for
3. fantastic writing that keeps you completely hooked
4. and a mystery to die for
then GET THIS BOOK!
All it takes is one little "yes"....
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
5 Stars
An impressive debut from Michael Cox. WOW I’m already excited to see what he writes next. The Buzz about this book is legit!
Do NOT sleep on this book. Mark your calendar and read it on release day: June 30, 2026.
Fantastic story with superb writing from beginning to end—and wow, that ending… let’s talk about it!
This suspenseful, twisty thriller is set in glamorous, elite Montecito, where reputation is everything and secrets are dangerous currency. Hollis knows more than he lets on, but he keeps going—because losing isn’t an option.
The fast-paced writing had me completely hooked. I binged this book and couldn’t put it down.
Thank you Micheal Cox, Inveniam Viam Press, and Netgalley for the ARC. 5 FANTASTIC STAR READ
An impressive debut from Michael Cox. WOW I’m already excited to see what he writes next. The Buzz about this book is legit!
Do NOT sleep on this book. Mark your calendar and read it on release day: June 30, 2026.
Fantastic story with superb writing from beginning to end—and wow, that ending… let’s talk about it!
This suspenseful, twisty thriller is set in glamorous, elite Montecito, where reputation is everything and secrets are dangerous currency. Hollis knows more than he lets on, but he keeps going—because losing isn’t an option.
The fast-paced writing had me completely hooked. I binged this book and couldn’t put it down.
Thank you Micheal Cox, Inveniam Viam Press, and Netgalley for the ARC. 5 FANTASTIC STAR READ
July 15, 2026
Thank you so much to @goodreads for this free copy of Montecito! This was a great book that caught my attention quickly!! There were some parts about global trading and banking that were over my head, but I got the gist. I felt like the more the author tried to explain it, the more confused I got. But I still really liked the story.
Hollis isvteh sole provider for his family and has recently been laid off. He questions everything to the point it gets him in a bit of trouble. Now unemployed, he meets Cyrus, a mesmerizing businessman. He talks a good talk and walks a good walk. He offers Hollis a CEO position in his new start up company (what this company actually does, I dont know, but I think its like an Amazon) Cyrus is going around collecting millions of investors money and loving it amongst different overseas banking accounts. Hollis makes it his mission to unravel what exactly Cyrus is doing.
Hollis isvteh sole provider for his family and has recently been laid off. He questions everything to the point it gets him in a bit of trouble. Now unemployed, he meets Cyrus, a mesmerizing businessman. He talks a good talk and walks a good walk. He offers Hollis a CEO position in his new start up company (what this company actually does, I dont know, but I think its like an Amazon) Cyrus is going around collecting millions of investors money and loving it amongst different overseas banking accounts. Hollis makes it his mission to unravel what exactly Cyrus is doing.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Montecito is a captivating read. Hollis is relatable, self deprecating and humorous. Having lived and worked in Montecito, it gave me an extra hook into the storyline which is absolutely believable while also having twists throughout. After I finished reading it, I started sharing it with everyone I know who appreciates a good author when they come across one. It does offer insight into the town Montecito, but it most distinctly sets a background to the story that captivates you from start to finish.
July 6, 2026
Excellent Read
This book from a debut author had me captivated from the beginning. Set in rich and beautiful Montecito complete with realistic details of the community. The main character Hollis has you onboard immediately. Even as Hollis maneuvers his way thru potential pitfalls you keep rooting for a better outcome. Always there is this suspense hanging over the story that keeps you turning the pages. Character driven the ending is still a surprise. Can't wait to read Michael Cox's next book.
This book from a debut author had me captivated from the beginning. Set in rich and beautiful Montecito complete with realistic details of the community. The main character Hollis has you onboard immediately. Even as Hollis maneuvers his way thru potential pitfalls you keep rooting for a better outcome. Always there is this suspense hanging over the story that keeps you turning the pages. Character driven the ending is still a surprise. Can't wait to read Michael Cox's next book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Love, Love, Love!!
Such a great story- page turner and couldn't set it down. The location is fabulous, the characters real and the story is super relatable. Enjoyed the writer's style and wit. Funny, charming and flawed main character Hollis living the dream in a posh town just a tad too expensive. Can't wait to see what else the author writes next. Definitely will be recommending to friends.
Thank you NetGalley and Inveniam Viam Press for this Advanced Reader Copy.
Such a great story- page turner and couldn't set it down. The location is fabulous, the characters real and the story is super relatable. Enjoyed the writer's style and wit. Funny, charming and flawed main character Hollis living the dream in a posh town just a tad too expensive. Can't wait to see what else the author writes next. Definitely will be recommending to friends.
Thank you NetGalley and Inveniam Viam Press for this Advanced Reader Copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Hollis is unemployed and looking for work.
He is flattered and excited when a new family move into town and he is offered a job in a new business they are setting up.
Hollis soon finds out that nothing is how it seems and is now worried that he has made the wrong choice working with this family.
An exciting read that I didn’t want to put down.
I’ll be looking out for more work from this author.
Thank you to NetGalley and Invenian Vian Press for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
He is flattered and excited when a new family move into town and he is offered a job in a new business they are setting up.
Hollis soon finds out that nothing is how it seems and is now worried that he has made the wrong choice working with this family.
An exciting read that I didn’t want to put down.
I’ll be looking out for more work from this author.
Thank you to NetGalley and Invenian Vian Press for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Utterly captivating from start to finish! Montecito is a vivid and immersive read that hooked me from the first page. Hollis's smart, witty and self-deprecating nature makes him immediately relatable and the author's sensory narrative makes you feel as if you are living his thrilling story. Knowing it's drawn from true events in such a singular setting makes it all the more mesmerizing. Still thinking about it. 5 stars!
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC of this book
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC of this book
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
4.5 stars! Such an exciting story! I did struggle to get into it for a few chapters, but once a certain incident happened (that I won't mention but happens fairly quickly) I was hooked and didnt put it down until I finished reading (even when I almost dropped it in food I was cooking for dinner haha). Absolutely amazing and while somewhat predictable, it kept you engaged enough that it didn't matter and still had plenty of surprising moments. I would definitely read more by this author
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
3.5. A good debut and quick, engaging prose. What I struggled with was the bumbling clueless man archetype, particularly in the beginning. I feel like Hollis was meant to be different with his "fog", which was an interesting character choice for sure until it felt like it veered too far into the cliche of helpless man with superwoman wife. Overall though, I enjoyed the setting, pacing and plot.
July 6, 2026
Had me on the edge of my seat—I couldn't put it down. I finished it in just a few days while on vacation because it was that good. It's a really well-written mystery with interesting, relatable, and well-developed characters. I found myself rooting for Hollis, even when he was frustrating at times. I'm already looking forward to the author's next book!
July 11, 2026
I truly loved reading this novel. Michael Cox’s quick, witty writing style had me hooked from the start. The protagonist, Hollis Crawford, shows such humor and vulnerability throughout his harrowing ride. You will be rooting for him throughout the entire compelling and fast-paced journey as he tries to keep his career and family afloat. Five stars!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Favorite.Vacay.Read.EVER!!!!!! Had force myself to put it down - didn’t want it to end! The language, the twists, the humor, the ending.. all SO GOOD!!!! Incredible debut novel, cannot wait to read more from Michael Cox.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I read the first version of "Montecito"...... it was a terrific read. I love the characters, the plot and I'm excited to see how the plot develops in the soon to be released version. I truly am looking forward to reading more from this author.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A gripping crime thriller serialized to rave reviews for 32 weeks in the Montecito Journal. I could not put this down!
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