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Montague & Strong Detective Agency #2
Full Moon Howl
Mystery. Malice. Revenge.
Broken bodies and bloody messages are appearing in the darkest corners of New York City. Infected werewolves are roaming the streets attacking innocents. The Dark Council demands answers. They summon Simon and Tristan to investigate. The evidence points to the work of a powerful mage, unfortunately, there is only one mage in the city powerful enough to cause this kind of infection-Tristan Montague.
Now, Simon and Tristan must locate the source of the magical infection before the Dark Council declares Tristan a dark mage, destroys the werewolves, and shatters the fragile peace in the supernatural community.
Join the Montague and Strong Detective Agency while they are hunted and chased. All while trying to uncover the identity of their unseen enemy before it’s too late!
Broken bodies and bloody messages are appearing in the darkest corners of New York City. Infected werewolves are roaming the streets attacking innocents. The Dark Council demands answers. They summon Simon and Tristan to investigate. The evidence points to the work of a powerful mage, unfortunately, there is only one mage in the city powerful enough to cause this kind of infection-Tristan Montague.
Now, Simon and Tristan must locate the source of the magical infection before the Dark Council declares Tristan a dark mage, destroys the werewolves, and shatters the fragile peace in the supernatural community.
Join the Montague and Strong Detective Agency while they are hunted and chased. All while trying to uncover the identity of their unseen enemy before it’s too late!
249 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 1, 2017
1041 people are currently reading
275 people want to read
About the author
Orlando A. Sanchez
105 books590 followersOrlando Sanchez has been writing ever since his teens when he was immersed in creating scenarios for playing Dungeon and Dragons with his friends every weekend. An avid reader, his influences are too numerous to list here. Some of the most prominent are: J.R.R. Tolkien, Jim Butcher, Kat Richardson, Terry Brooks, Piers Anthony, Lee Child, George Lucas, Andrew Vachss, and Barry Eisler to name a few in no particular order.
The worlds of his books are urban settings with a twist of the paranormal lurking just behind the scenes and generous doses of magic, martial arts, and mayhem.
Aside from writing, he holds a 2nd and 3rd Dan in two distinct styles of Karate. If not training, he is studying some aspect of the martial arts or martial arts philosophy.
He currently resides in Queens, NY with his family and can often be found in the local Starbucks where most of his writing is done.
Please visit his site at: www.OrlandoASanchez.com for more information about his books and upcoming releases.
The worlds of his books are urban settings with a twist of the paranormal lurking just behind the scenes and generous doses of magic, martial arts, and mayhem.
Aside from writing, he holds a 2nd and 3rd Dan in two distinct styles of Karate. If not training, he is studying some aspect of the martial arts or martial arts philosophy.
He currently resides in Queens, NY with his family and can often be found in the local Starbucks where most of his writing is done.
Please visit his site at: www.OrlandoASanchez.com for more information about his books and upcoming releases.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 174 reviews
June 4, 2019
Full Moon Bowl by Orlando A Sanchez and narrated by Kevin T Collins is book two in the series. This book continues with the mage and the detective getting into more situations where something is sure to be destroyed and someone maybe dead! This book has crazed werewolves, dragons, gods, mages, lots of magic, someone trying to set our guys up, and a hell hound named Peaches! An action packed book with a few side stories that blend into the main story and make it super great!
The narration was terrific! Great performance!
The narration was terrific! Great performance!
January 3, 2022
I really glad I started this series. It makes a bit of a change for me since my genre of choice is romance. But I do love books with humour and I’m a huge paranormal fan.
These books have everything except the kitchen sink. And this is only book two so there’s time for that to appear yet. They’re nonstop action, adventure and crazy let’s not forget the crazy. But I’m really enjoying the ride.
Bring on the next one….
These books have everything except the kitchen sink. And this is only book two so there’s time for that to appear yet. They’re nonstop action, adventure and crazy let’s not forget the crazy. But I’m really enjoying the ride.
Bring on the next one….
March 8, 2018
Montague & Strong Case Files: 2
This book continues the style of the last one, hoarding info so that the reader is left trying to piece together the history and worldview from what sparse tidbits are tossed out. This is another action-packed story wound thickly around a hair-thin plot. Things don't make sense, but the author distracts with various shinies that the reader doesn't realize things don't make sense until much later. Scenes follow each other without logical progression, characters act inconsistently, plot elements are needlessly repeated or contradictory, but it doesn't matter, because there's explosions and fighting and all kinds of distractions. It's kind of frustrating, but on the other hand, so much shiny! The ending here is rather abrupt. This one doesn't have the sense of closure that the first book did, since it ends without finishing off the baddie.
This book continues the style of the last one, hoarding info so that the reader is left trying to piece together the history and worldview from what sparse tidbits are tossed out. This is another action-packed story wound thickly around a hair-thin plot. Things don't make sense, but the author distracts with various shinies that the reader doesn't realize things don't make sense until much later. Scenes follow each other without logical progression, characters act inconsistently, plot elements are needlessly repeated or contradictory, but it doesn't matter, because there's explosions and fighting and all kinds of distractions. It's kind of frustrating, but on the other hand, so much shiny! The ending here is rather abrupt. This one doesn't have the sense of closure that the first book did, since it ends without finishing off the baddie.
October 3, 2022
My Thoughts:
The book picks up where the first book left off. We get more of the same action like we did in the previous book. It is still exciting, however, I fear that it is going to get monotonous soon! I hope Orlando Sanchez has some more tricks up his sleeve for the next book...
Kevin Collins ' voice is not bad, but for some reason I needed to stop listening and start reading with my own eyes instead. I don't know if it is just me wanting to savour the book, something to do with the narrator's reading, or something to do with the book, or a combination of factors... I don't know. One thing is for sure, I ended up reading this book instead of listening to it.
Anyway, at the end of it, I enjoyed this book and looking forward to the next installment in the series! Peaches is still my favouritest character!
Empirical Evaluation:
Story telling quality = 4
Character development = 5
Story itself = 4.5
Writing Style = 4
Ending = 4
World building = 4.5
Cover art = 4
Pace = 3.5
Plot = 3.5
Narration = 4
Overall Rating: 4 out of 5
The book picks up where the first book left off. We get more of the same action like we did in the previous book. It is still exciting, however, I fear that it is going to get monotonous soon! I hope Orlando Sanchez has some more tricks up his sleeve for the next book...
Kevin Collins ' voice is not bad, but for some reason I needed to stop listening and start reading with my own eyes instead. I don't know if it is just me wanting to savour the book, something to do with the narrator's reading, or something to do with the book, or a combination of factors... I don't know. One thing is for sure, I ended up reading this book instead of listening to it.
Anyway, at the end of it, I enjoyed this book and looking forward to the next installment in the series! Peaches is still my favouritest character!
Empirical Evaluation:
Story telling quality = 4
Character development = 5
Story itself = 4.5
Writing Style = 4
Ending = 4
World building = 4.5
Cover art = 4
Pace = 3.5
Plot = 3.5
Narration = 4
Overall Rating: 4 out of 5
November 26, 2020
3.5/5
https://delivreenlivres.home.blog/202...
Il s’agit de la fameuse série ou on suit un duo d’inspecteurs, Simon et Monty, dont j’avais vraiment aimé le premier tome. Ce tome était une bonne lecture page-turner. Certes il était un peu moins long que le précédent et je trouve que ça c’est senti, mais il est plus basé sur l’action et tout s’enchaîne à toute vitesse.
Dans ce tome il se passe des choses bizarre avec les garous. Ceux ci perdent le contrôle de leur moitié loup. Ils deviennent fou et se transforment même en dehors de la pleine lune. L’un d’eux se transforme en présence de nos héros et bizarrement se met à parler a Monty (le mage) comme si il le connaissait. Celui ci ne comprend pas et ne reconnait pas la personne en question.
Après un premier tome quasiment entièrement consacré à Simon, il était temps d’en savoir plus sur le second enquêteur du duo. Celui ci traîne un sacré passé derrière lui qui le rattrape totalement dans ce tome. Les conséquences des problèmes de ce tome sont énormes que ça soit pour la ville ou pour nos personnages. D’ailleurs à la fin de ce tome ci on n’a pas encore tout fini de gérer et Monty va devoir répondre de ses actes devant les autorités (et celles ci ne sont pas contentes).
Il faut savoir qu’on suit l’autre Simon (Strong), et donc que pendant l’ensemble du roman les motivations de Monty et ce qui lui arrive vraiment nous sont cachés car ils concernent un passé qu’il voudrait oublier dont il n’a pas envie de parler. Il fini bien sur par nous donner tout les éléments dont on en a besoin pour l’intrigue au fur et à mesure, mais c’est pas une personne habituée à s’étendre sur ses sentiments. Il est plus dans la retenu et il garde pour lui ce qui le dérange.
Du coup j’ai bien aimé le fait que ça ne passe pas inaperçu et que tout ai un prix. Après c’est vrai que Monty est vraiment très puissant. Peut être un peu trop. Mais c’est compensé par le fait qu’il en paye les conséquences heureusement.
J’ai trouvé que ce tome passait tout seul. On a encore pas mal de mystères qui tournent et qui rendent le tout intéressant, le tout dans un rythme effréné. En plus la dynamique entre les deux personnages est toujours aussi sympa et m’a fait passer un excellent moment !
https://delivreenlivres.home.blog/202...
Il s’agit de la fameuse série ou on suit un duo d’inspecteurs, Simon et Monty, dont j’avais vraiment aimé le premier tome. Ce tome était une bonne lecture page-turner. Certes il était un peu moins long que le précédent et je trouve que ça c’est senti, mais il est plus basé sur l’action et tout s’enchaîne à toute vitesse.
Dans ce tome il se passe des choses bizarre avec les garous. Ceux ci perdent le contrôle de leur moitié loup. Ils deviennent fou et se transforment même en dehors de la pleine lune. L’un d’eux se transforme en présence de nos héros et bizarrement se met à parler a Monty (le mage) comme si il le connaissait. Celui ci ne comprend pas et ne reconnait pas la personne en question.
Après un premier tome quasiment entièrement consacré à Simon, il était temps d’en savoir plus sur le second enquêteur du duo. Celui ci traîne un sacré passé derrière lui qui le rattrape totalement dans ce tome. Les conséquences des problèmes de ce tome sont énormes que ça soit pour la ville ou pour nos personnages. D’ailleurs à la fin de ce tome ci on n’a pas encore tout fini de gérer et Monty va devoir répondre de ses actes devant les autorités (et celles ci ne sont pas contentes).
Il faut savoir qu’on suit l’autre Simon (Strong), et donc que pendant l’ensemble du roman les motivations de Monty et ce qui lui arrive vraiment nous sont cachés car ils concernent un passé qu’il voudrait oublier dont il n’a pas envie de parler. Il fini bien sur par nous donner tout les éléments dont on en a besoin pour l’intrigue au fur et à mesure, mais c’est pas une personne habituée à s’étendre sur ses sentiments. Il est plus dans la retenu et il garde pour lui ce qui le dérange.
Du coup j’ai bien aimé le fait que ça ne passe pas inaperçu et que tout ai un prix. Après c’est vrai que Monty est vraiment très puissant. Peut être un peu trop. Mais c’est compensé par le fait qu’il en paye les conséquences heureusement.
J’ai trouvé que ce tome passait tout seul. On a encore pas mal de mystères qui tournent et qui rendent le tout intéressant, le tout dans un rythme effréné. En plus la dynamique entre les deux personnages est toujours aussi sympa et m’a fait passer un excellent moment !
May 8, 2018
Thank you Orlando for giving us a Kindle Unlimited book that does not embrace a tacky cliff hanger ending. I appreciate it and will continue with the series.
This is an action book, guy-based fast-paced action (the how many things can go wrong at once kind of action).
This is an action book, guy-based fast-paced action (the how many things can go wrong at once kind of action).
January 2, 2019
Another great Simon and a Monty book
I’m so glad I discovered this series. This had a lot of action and I’ve grown very attached to Monty and Peaches. Simon cracks me up. I liked in this book how Simon is able to communicate with Peaches now, and some of the things that come out of Peaches mouth are great! On to the next book in series
I’m so glad I discovered this series. This had a lot of action and I’ve grown very attached to Monty and Peaches. Simon cracks me up. I liked in this book how Simon is able to communicate with Peaches now, and some of the things that come out of Peaches mouth are great! On to the next book in series
January 31, 2020
Book source ~ Kindle Unlimited
Bad juju is going down and The Dark Council wants Simon and Tristan to investigate. However, the evidence is pointing a finger right at Tristan. But you know what they say? If you are pointing 1 finger at someone then there are 4 more pointing back at you. Or something like that. Because we all know it’s not Tristan who is doing this nasty stuff. Montague & Strong need to find out who is behind the nasty business. Preferably before Tristan is taken out for something he didn’t do.
There’s lots of magic and danger going on and the world is interesting. The writing is a bit sparse. Which is not necessarily a bad thing, it just seems a bit lacking in…I don’t know, filler, for want of a better word. Like I said, not necessarily a bad thing, but I like a bit more fiber to my reading meal. Simon is a smartass and it can get a bit irritating which is also why I don’t rate this higher. However, it’s decent entertainment and enough to keep me going with the series. Also, Peaches is the best character of all. Just sayin’.
Bad juju is going down and The Dark Council wants Simon and Tristan to investigate. However, the evidence is pointing a finger right at Tristan. But you know what they say? If you are pointing 1 finger at someone then there are 4 more pointing back at you. Or something like that. Because we all know it’s not Tristan who is doing this nasty stuff. Montague & Strong need to find out who is behind the nasty business. Preferably before Tristan is taken out for something he didn’t do.
There’s lots of magic and danger going on and the world is interesting. The writing is a bit sparse. Which is not necessarily a bad thing, it just seems a bit lacking in…I don’t know, filler, for want of a better word. Like I said, not necessarily a bad thing, but I like a bit more fiber to my reading meal. Simon is a smartass and it can get a bit irritating which is also why I don’t rate this higher. However, it’s decent entertainment and enough to keep me going with the series. Also, Peaches is the best character of all. Just sayin’.
March 20, 2022
Another frantic, wild magical adventure for Simon and Monty with Peaches along for the ride. Peaches, the giant TALKING?????? Hellhound who wants to bite everyone is hilarious his prim and proper character is so at odds with his desire to inflect bites on all the people 😃😂😂😂 I just love it.
This one a great fast moving plot and once the action starts it never really stops. What I do like is that even when Simon and Monty are not in scenes together, the plot nor the action suffers because the supporting/secondary characters are so well written that they enhance rather than detract from the main characters relationship, while taking on a life of their own and you’re either intensely disliking those secondary characters are rooting for them as well.
With this book, the race is on to save Monty, save NY, discover some secrets Monty has kept hidden from Simon and the overarching theme is about family. What would you do to save family? How many bodies would lie in your wake to protect your family??
Also, what is up with the Dark Council??? 😒😒🤔🤔
This one a great fast moving plot and once the action starts it never really stops. What I do like is that even when Simon and Monty are not in scenes together, the plot nor the action suffers because the supporting/secondary characters are so well written that they enhance rather than detract from the main characters relationship, while taking on a life of their own and you’re either intensely disliking those secondary characters are rooting for them as well.
With this book, the race is on to save Monty, save NY, discover some secrets Monty has kept hidden from Simon and the overarching theme is about family. What would you do to save family? How many bodies would lie in your wake to protect your family??
Also, what is up with the Dark Council??? 😒😒🤔🤔
January 2, 2019
Uncaged Review: This series is getting better - if that’s even possible. Simon and Tristan are back, with Hellhound, Peaches in tow. Werewolves are going rabid, and killing innocent people. On top of it all, something is wrong with Tristan and he may be going “dark.” Simon has to get help from another powerful mage that could put his immortal life in danger.
The fun, the action, the witty dialog and even a great supporting cast pack the pages of this urban fantasy, and this is an author that has moved high on my list of “authors not to miss.” When I finished this book, I went straight to Amazon and downloaded book three and I can’t wait to hurry back to this world. Reviewed by Cyrene
The fun, the action, the witty dialog and even a great supporting cast pack the pages of this urban fantasy, and this is an author that has moved high on my list of “authors not to miss.” When I finished this book, I went straight to Amazon and downloaded book three and I can’t wait to hurry back to this world. Reviewed by Cyrene
October 9, 2021
I see a trend. We don't get a prolonged fight with the Big Bad of the book, but we get a nonstop action with lots of humour. I like it.
Want to see what happens next with the Golden Circle. Starting the next book now.
Want to see what happens next with the Golden Circle. Starting the next book now.
June 30, 2017
Different
Lots of action, magic, and super natural creatures. Loved the Easter eggs. I would recommend this book to my family and friends.
Lots of action, magic, and super natural creatures. Loved the Easter eggs. I would recommend this book to my family and friends.
May 29, 2023
More, please!!
This series only has 6-7 books, I think, so I have to pace myself but I’m loving it!
Urban fantasy adventure, check!
Buddy riffs & eye rolls from the ‘practical one,’ check!
New ‘pet’ sidekick, check!
Dragons!! Big check!
Bonus checks for the tongue in cheek pop culture & other UF references!
Anyone who can confirm the ‘wizard in St Louis’ & point me to that series, I’d appreciate it!
This series only has 6-7 books, I think, so I have to pace myself but I’m loving it!
Urban fantasy adventure, check!
Buddy riffs & eye rolls from the ‘practical one,’ check!
New ‘pet’ sidekick, check!
Dragons!! Big check!
Bonus checks for the tongue in cheek pop culture & other UF references!
Anyone who can confirm the ‘wizard in St Louis’ & point me to that series, I’d appreciate it!
April 20, 2020
This was fun! Enjoy the many mythological appearances. And references to other fictional wizards.
April 19, 2020
I had the same problem with this book as I had with the one before, it is underdeveloped. There's a lot here that's interesting, the comedic moments made me laugh and the action was engaging, but without that development, nothing hit as hard as it should have.
The other issue I have is that the protagonist is woefully underpowered for what he's facing, and also is constantly depowered by the plot. While series like the Dresden Files have made their name by sending their protagonists into situations that are out of their weight class, I find those books only work because it feels like the protagonist is just out of their league, and usually because they underestimate themselves. In these last two books, there is no question, Strong is seriously out of his league. There's not a small gap he needs to leap to go toe to toe with his enemies, it is an enormous chasm.
To make matters worse, the author is constantly depowering him. Like the main character, I too have a strong interest in Wolverine's (from the X-MEN) powerset. This is because the idea of an immortal character is fascinating and exploring that concept is why I pick up books about that character. It is also why I'm interested in this series. Unfortunately, the author here has the same problem as many authors who handle the Wolverine character, they don't think you can create tension without the danger of death. That is a mistake.
Tension is created through conflict. The most obvious form of conflict is violence, and this is where this myth has come from. If someone can never be hurt, how can any violent conflict have consequences? However, that is not the only form of conflict. You can get conflict from something as simple as working against a deadline, or from facing an impossible choice, or from fearing for other people, or from any of a near-infinite number of story elements. By developing your characters and story further, you can easily write a story about an immortal man where you don't take away the one thing that makes him truly interesting, his immortality.
The problem with this author not doing that is that in every situation the protagonist might as well be a normal person because a loophole in his immortality is always exploited. This instantly loses my attention as a reader because I came to read a story about Superman, but instead, I got a story about
Super
man, and that's not nearly so interesting.
Overall these last two books haven't hit the mark for me. There's potential here but not enough to make me want to read more.
The other issue I have is that the protagonist is woefully underpowered for what he's facing, and also is constantly depowered by the plot. While series like the Dresden Files have made their name by sending their protagonists into situations that are out of their weight class, I find those books only work because it feels like the protagonist is just out of their league, and usually because they underestimate themselves. In these last two books, there is no question, Strong is seriously out of his league. There's not a small gap he needs to leap to go toe to toe with his enemies, it is an enormous chasm.
To make matters worse, the author is constantly depowering him. Like the main character, I too have a strong interest in Wolverine's (from the X-MEN) powerset. This is because the idea of an immortal character is fascinating and exploring that concept is why I pick up books about that character. It is also why I'm interested in this series. Unfortunately, the author here has the same problem as many authors who handle the Wolverine character, they don't think you can create tension without the danger of death. That is a mistake.
Tension is created through conflict. The most obvious form of conflict is violence, and this is where this myth has come from. If someone can never be hurt, how can any violent conflict have consequences? However, that is not the only form of conflict. You can get conflict from something as simple as working against a deadline, or from facing an impossible choice, or from fearing for other people, or from any of a near-infinite number of story elements. By developing your characters and story further, you can easily write a story about an immortal man where you don't take away the one thing that makes him truly interesting, his immortality.
The problem with this author not doing that is that in every situation the protagonist might as well be a normal person because a loophole in his immortality is always exploited. This instantly loses my attention as a reader because I came to read a story about Superman, but instead, I got a story about
Overall these last two books haven't hit the mark for me. There's potential here but not enough to make me want to read more.
June 22, 2017
Second entry in Orlando Sanchez's new urban fantasy series the 'Montague and Strong Case Files' which continues to build on the world first explored in Tombyards & Butterflies: a world in which the paranormal lives (in secret) alongside the normal, with these novels all set (so far) in New York.
Like the previous entry, this moves at a fair old lick, with the catalyst for the events this time around Montague and Strong investigating just what is happening amongst the werewolf population of New York; just why they are suddenly going all feral.
I realise we're only 2 books in to the series, but I am findig quite a few parallels (so far) between these andJim Butcher 's 'The Drresden Files' series: both concern detective magic-users in a world where the paranormal exists alongside the normal (indeed, I even thought I picked up a reference to Harry Dresden in ths one), both have a canine side-kick, in both cases there's a neutral venue and in both cases the second book in the series concerns werewolves (Fool Moon in 'The Dresden Files' case).
Don't get me wrong: if you're going to, ummm, 'be inspired', be inspired by the best: I would just like to see this series take on more of it's own identity in future, and will be looking for other entries in it.
Like the previous entry, this moves at a fair old lick, with the catalyst for the events this time around Montague and Strong investigating just what is happening amongst the werewolf population of New York; just why they are suddenly going all feral.
I realise we're only 2 books in to the series, but I am findig quite a few parallels (so far) between these andJim Butcher 's 'The Drresden Files' series: both concern detective magic-users in a world where the paranormal exists alongside the normal (indeed, I even thought I picked up a reference to Harry Dresden in ths one), both have a canine side-kick, in both cases there's a neutral venue and in both cases the second book in the series concerns werewolves (Fool Moon in 'The Dresden Files' case).
Don't get me wrong: if you're going to, ummm, 'be inspired', be inspired by the best: I would just like to see this series take on more of it's own identity in future, and will be looking for other entries in it.
June 5, 2017
I thoroughly enjoyed the second book in the Montague and Strong Detective Agency series. I love the main protagonists and in this story we learn a little more about their background. One of the things I enjoy about the series is that many of the relationships are already well established. I feel like I'm meeting new friends and, as you would in real life, getting to know more about them as you accompany them on their adventures. I enjoy the verbal sparring between Simon and Monty, as well as between their other friends and foes. We meet interesting new characters in this book. I'm not going to give you a synopsis of the story; Mr Sanchez does that far better, and I don't want to spoil any surprises! But if you enjoy a good fun, fast paced story, non-perfect good guys, thoroughly bad and misguided bad guys, magic and mayhem, then this is definitely the series for you. Do read the first book in the series, Tombyards and Butterflies, before this one though. Can't wait for the next book in the series. We still have secrets to learn, and I definitely look forward to the good fun one-liners
January 8, 2024
Still no reason why Simon has all the fancy things, and this outing he gained a refilling magic flask of healing - and get this; it's coffee from Valhalla. COFFEE... Does that makes any sense? That loud cracking noise you hear is the world building snapping. [I get how amusing it is that THAT is my last straw with the world building.]
Who IS this guy and why does he have the magic swords and immortality gift that he has?
The hellhound now talks like Vinnie Jones… and I have no clue why.
Still zero explanation on why these two are friends, let alone partners and family.
Monty is so OP now, he’s in a league of his own and its only book 2 of the series.
I think I am stopping here. The disjointed scenes, the inconsistencies, the characters having overlong chats (almost info dumps) in the middle of action scenes… I just can’t.
2 stars
Who IS this guy and why does he have the magic swords and immortality gift that he has?
The hellhound now talks like Vinnie Jones… and I have no clue why.
Still zero explanation on why these two are friends, let alone partners and family.
Monty is so OP now, he’s in a league of his own and its only book 2 of the series.
I think I am stopping here. The disjointed scenes, the inconsistencies, the characters having overlong chats (almost info dumps) in the middle of action scenes… I just can’t.
2 stars
January 13, 2019
I wish I could give it 5 stars. I really enjoy the characters, and what I can see of this universe. What I want is more. I need more details. The story rushes through at a breakneck pace, not letting you stop long enough to realize how many pieces are missing.
We get a vague explanation of what is going on with the werewolves, and an even more vague description of Tristan's problem. Tell us more. What exactly is happening with the werewolves? They are obviously intelligent and aware enough that they should have been able to be a bigger part of the story. And how on earth did both Tristan and Roxanne misinterpret what was happening to him so badly? Should they not have been able to tell? And if not, why it seems that it is not something so unusual as to be easily confused with the opposite? And what exactly WAS it, the explanation left me confused. How did Ebonsoul help?
Obviously I enjoyed the book, I still gave it 4 stars. I enjoy his style and am attached to the characters, and will read the next one, I just wish it had more detail and depth.
We get a vague explanation of what is going on with the werewolves, and an even more vague description of Tristan's problem. Tell us more. What exactly is happening with the werewolves? They are obviously intelligent and aware enough that they should have been able to be a bigger part of the story. And how on earth did both Tristan and Roxanne misinterpret what was happening to him so badly? Should they not have been able to tell? And if not, why it seems that it is not something so unusual as to be easily confused with the opposite? And what exactly WAS it, the explanation left me confused. How did Ebonsoul help?
Obviously I enjoyed the book, I still gave it 4 stars. I enjoy his style and am attached to the characters, and will read the next one, I just wish it had more detail and depth.
August 23, 2022
Follow on review from book 1.
All comments about book 1 are still in effect.
But something's happened that has perplexed me. Happily, though.
I am hooked on this series. I blew through the book in two days. That rarely happens for me. A week is about the time I need to read a book.
Not so with Montague & Strong Case Files.
Yes, some of the UF elements are still a bit clumsy but not as much as book 1. Which pleased me with my prediction that the author would mature in to the series. So far, he's showing that's the case.
I can see the larger picture slowly starting to develop. I like the direction.
Peaches is still my hero for the book. I actually love his relationship with Simon.
Not really fond of Simon's big mouth but I kind of get the UF expectation and it's kind of growing on me in that I am always interested in what shitpile shooting his mouth lands them in, only to have Monty have to mage their way out.
Overall, enjoying the story, even with the flaws.
But...what story doesn't have flaws?
All comments about book 1 are still in effect.
But something's happened that has perplexed me. Happily, though.
I am hooked on this series. I blew through the book in two days. That rarely happens for me. A week is about the time I need to read a book.
Not so with Montague & Strong Case Files.
Yes, some of the UF elements are still a bit clumsy but not as much as book 1. Which pleased me with my prediction that the author would mature in to the series. So far, he's showing that's the case.
I can see the larger picture slowly starting to develop. I like the direction.
Peaches is still my hero for the book. I actually love his relationship with Simon.
Not really fond of Simon's big mouth but I kind of get the UF expectation and it's kind of growing on me in that I am always interested in what shitpile shooting his mouth lands them in, only to have Monty have to mage their way out.
Overall, enjoying the story, even with the flaws.
But...what story doesn't have flaws?
February 5, 2025
Mystery. Malice. Revenge.
Broken bodies and bloody messages are appearing in the darkest corners of New York City. Infected werewolves are roaming the streets attacking innocents.
The Dark Council demands answers. They summon Simon and Tristan to investigate. The evidence points to the work of a powerful mage, unfortunately, there is only one mage in the city powerful enough to cause this kind of infection-Tristan Montague.
Now, Simon and Tristan must locate the source of the magical infection before the Dark Council declares Tristan a dark mage, destroys the werewolves, and shatters the fragile peace in the supernatural community.
Join the Montague and Strong Detective Agency while they are hunted and chased. All while trying to uncover the identity of their unseen enemy before it’s too late!
Heather's Notes
Another good story with Simon and Tristin. I really like the way they are both growing and learning about their powers. I also like the dog. Peaches is funny.
Broken bodies and bloody messages are appearing in the darkest corners of New York City. Infected werewolves are roaming the streets attacking innocents.
The Dark Council demands answers. They summon Simon and Tristan to investigate. The evidence points to the work of a powerful mage, unfortunately, there is only one mage in the city powerful enough to cause this kind of infection-Tristan Montague.
Now, Simon and Tristan must locate the source of the magical infection before the Dark Council declares Tristan a dark mage, destroys the werewolves, and shatters the fragile peace in the supernatural community.
Join the Montague and Strong Detective Agency while they are hunted and chased. All while trying to uncover the identity of their unseen enemy before it’s too late!
Heather's Notes
Another good story with Simon and Tristin. I really like the way they are both growing and learning about their powers. I also like the dog. Peaches is funny.
October 14, 2018
The second instalment of this hilarious series proved to be just as good as the first. Monty and Simon are flung head first straight into another brawl with high stakes players. Monty is having a bit of a personal struggle and Simon needs to find those who are able to help him. In the meantime dragons and mages of dubious powers are intent on destroying parts of New York city if not part of the continent. Oh and just to top it off the Dark Council (the supernatural local controlling power) have sent a maniac after Monty believing that he is the one behind the plots. Bad couple of days? Throw in a few explosions and Simon might just be putting his immortality to test. The limelight show stealing star however was Peaches the hellhound and yes he talks :-) :-) All in all this has the recipe for everything I like in Urban fantasy, meaning high entertainment!
February 20, 2021
Whispersync doesn’t work
When I get an ebook I normally purchase the audible. I enjoy being able to actually accomplish mundane asks while I continue a book. For some reason whispersync did NOT work. I wasn’t able to switch from my iPad to iPhone without having to try to figure out where I stopped. The ebook glossary isn’t broken down by the chapter so I spent entirely to much time trying to get to the correct part. The parts of the book that I read have frequent editing errors and the book itself is short. I don’t normally spend money on a six hour audible. After all the irritating things I went through to try to read/listen to this story it ends with a cliffhanger. The book was only 212 pages, it should have been continued. I enjoy the characters and the action. The series has some promise of enjoyment if I can get over the irritants of reading/Listening.
When I get an ebook I normally purchase the audible. I enjoy being able to actually accomplish mundane asks while I continue a book. For some reason whispersync did NOT work. I wasn’t able to switch from my iPad to iPhone without having to try to figure out where I stopped. The ebook glossary isn’t broken down by the chapter so I spent entirely to much time trying to get to the correct part. The parts of the book that I read have frequent editing errors and the book itself is short. I don’t normally spend money on a six hour audible. After all the irritating things I went through to try to read/listen to this story it ends with a cliffhanger. The book was only 212 pages, it should have been continued. I enjoy the characters and the action. The series has some promise of enjoyment if I can get over the irritants of reading/Listening.
July 21, 2017
Well, the werewolves are restless, old family and friends show up and we get to see what mages like to do in their spare time This is the second book that deals with Monty, a mage you should never call a wizard and Simon, who is cursed alive by certain Goddess he ticked off with his charming personality.
Not to forget Monty's old love interest showing up, and she is not one to tick off. A dragon whom seems to be playing both sides, and let's not forget that ever loving puppy dog Peaches. And a necromancer that can't seem to take no for an answer.
I enjoyed it very much and cannot wait to see what happens next since Monty has done a few things to make some more interesting people show up in the next book.
Not to forget Monty's old love interest showing up, and she is not one to tick off. A dragon whom seems to be playing both sides, and let's not forget that ever loving puppy dog Peaches. And a necromancer that can't seem to take no for an answer.
I enjoyed it very much and cannot wait to see what happens next since Monty has done a few things to make some more interesting people show up in the next book.
July 16, 2018
Let's call this a 3.5 star.
The story is getting better. At first I wasn't bowled over but I'm glad I'm continuing. Monty and Simon are very funny main characters and play off each other really well. Peaches is my favorite. The story is cohesive, but if I'm going to be honest, I'm getting the impression that the author wrote this out as a 2-3 book series and decided to break it up into many more smaller novels. The result is they are "ended" at weird points leaving you more than hanging. They leave you in the middle of a scene. If that's what he did, I guess I understand as the target audience tends to prefer the shorter books. But I'm finding that part of his storyline a bit frustrating.
The story is getting better. At first I wasn't bowled over but I'm glad I'm continuing. Monty and Simon are very funny main characters and play off each other really well. Peaches is my favorite. The story is cohesive, but if I'm going to be honest, I'm getting the impression that the author wrote this out as a 2-3 book series and decided to break it up into many more smaller novels. The result is they are "ended" at weird points leaving you more than hanging. They leave you in the middle of a scene. If that's what he did, I guess I understand as the target audience tends to prefer the shorter books. But I'm finding that part of his storyline a bit frustrating.
July 12, 2019
Another great book in the series. I think the relationship between the Team and the Police department is well written, a touch of antagonism and respect. The author states that he piece meals out information so we learn about things rather than dump everything in exposition. Monte's 'upgrade' should be interesting along with the developments involving the Golden Circle.
The death of one of the characters was a bit shocking, not surprising though given all the warnings and the level of enemies that were presented but if you gotta go, it was epic.
Simon. If you blended Spenser and 'that Wizard from Chicago', that's who you'd end up with. Looking forward to reading the rest of the series and discovering more about this world.
The death of one of the characters was a bit shocking, not surprising though given all the warnings and the level of enemies that were presented but if you gotta go, it was epic.
Simon. If you blended Spenser and 'that Wizard from Chicago', that's who you'd end up with. Looking forward to reading the rest of the series and discovering more about this world.
June 7, 2017
Can Strong and Montague save the day? Will they survive?
We join Simon and Tristian on their adventures. Ancient magic is being sought after.
The Phoenix Tail has been stolen from the White Phoenix which sent an extremely violent assassin to retrieve it but she is the least of the worries. Messages from brothers long dead but not; delivered by drakes (dragons). Mages of the highest caliber escape and is trying to collect all the pieces for an ancient spell.
Ramirez is director of NYTF now and dealing with the Den of Werewolves waiting for our duo to get uptown as reinforcements.
The Dark Council is sending "Beck" to erase Monty and maybe snag Strong along the way.
We join Simon and Tristian on their adventures. Ancient magic is being sought after.
The Phoenix Tail has been stolen from the White Phoenix which sent an extremely violent assassin to retrieve it but she is the least of the worries. Messages from brothers long dead but not; delivered by drakes (dragons). Mages of the highest caliber escape and is trying to collect all the pieces for an ancient spell.
Ramirez is director of NYTF now and dealing with the Den of Werewolves waiting for our duo to get uptown as reinforcements.
The Dark Council is sending "Beck" to erase Monty and maybe snag Strong along the way.
April 2, 2018
Full Moon Howl is full of action and a slightly warped sense of humour throughout from great characters with brilliant interconnectivity. Monty and Simon are back (Tombyards and Butterflies is the first book in the Series which was great but this is even better) and as their dysfunctional family grows the story goes more in depth into characters you already knew as well as introducing you to new ones. There are humans who are part of this family but so many supernatural and mythical characters that I can't be seen to have favourites by naming them?! You probably ought to set some time aside as once I started reading I really didn't want to stop.
October 28, 2019
So much fun
I love this series. So many urban fantasy series take themselves incredibly seriously, but this one is just plain irreverent and fun. It has all the usual tropes: a wisecracking narrator, his supernatural guard dog, vampires, cops, and all sorts of other things. There are good-natured references to other series (ie., "that guy in Chicago with a staff" or "the guy in St. Louis") and little Easter eggs all over that are a joy to find. I especially love that the reader is just thrown into a world full of references and unexplained backstory and left to catch up as we can. It's so refreshing to read without a ton of exposition. I'm thoroughly enjoying it.
I love this series. So many urban fantasy series take themselves incredibly seriously, but this one is just plain irreverent and fun. It has all the usual tropes: a wisecracking narrator, his supernatural guard dog, vampires, cops, and all sorts of other things. There are good-natured references to other series (ie., "that guy in Chicago with a staff" or "the guy in St. Louis") and little Easter eggs all over that are a joy to find. I especially love that the reader is just thrown into a world full of references and unexplained backstory and left to catch up as we can. It's so refreshing to read without a ton of exposition. I'm thoroughly enjoying it.
August 28, 2023
I just recently came across the M & S Detective Agency books, and I am really enjoying them! I love the way Mr Sanchez refers often to “that wizard in Chicago who blows stuff up.” (For those not in the know, that would be Harry Dresden). The interaction between these 2 guys is like watching Dresden …and himself. I love it that Strong has a (not quite so) funny remark about EVERYTHING, and Montague doesn’t seem to have any sense of humor at all. They play so well off each other! Plus, the action and the danger is enough to keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end. All in all, great series!!
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