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It’s uncomfortable between a rock and a hard place.
When the NYTF reports that a golem, a large rock creature, is terrorizing parts of the city and destroying hubs of power, Ezra calls on Montague & Strong to investigate and stop the creature.
Their first reaction is to refuse.
Except there’s one problem.
No one refuses Ezra, a personification of Death, without grave consequences.
Now, Monty and Simon, together with Ursula of the DAMNED, must uncover how the golem was created and who would use it to destroy hubs of power, without being crushed in the process.
What they uncover, will have them face a power beyond their abilities and make choices with dire consequences.
Consequences they may not be ready for...yet.
241 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 22, 2019
467 people are currently reading
161 people want to read
About the author
Orlando A. Sanchez
105 books592 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 118 reviews
January 12, 2022
This one was okay but I didn’t enjoy it as much as the earlier ones. I don’t know if the series has just run out of steam or if it’s me.
Peaches as always completely stole the show
Peaches as always completely stole the show
January 20, 2020
They really just keep getting better and better. Liking where the series is taking the two and eager to see what comes next.
January 14, 2020
Book copy
March 4, 2020
3 1/2 stars. Another fun episode. As what you can expect in a Montague & Strong Case File: explosions, snark, double dealing. Just plain fun. Not sure why I don't like it quite as much as some of the others. But I am glad to see they didn't destroy Times Square.
December 29, 2019
May the snark be with you
This is the BEST book in the entire Montague & Strong Universe!
In this novel, Monty and Simon have the best chemistry that I’ve read in any of their books. Their relationship has evolved into the perfect best friend, buddy cop, husband wife, odd couple relationship I have ever read. The insane level of snark and banter is incredible. The way they play off of each other is magnificent. Monty even has a sense of humor. Don’t even get me stared on Peaches. Peaches’ entry into any scene is hysterical. This is laugh out loud funny.
The plot is also amazing. It’s not just great writing. We get to see true growth in Simon. We also get to see a side of both Simon and Monty, that I think they didn’t know existed, thanks to a certain cold girl.
The supporting characters are some of the best in the M&S Universe. We get to revisit some of our favorite characters and we get to meet some extremely interesting new characters.
So don’t dawdle, Death should never be kept waiting. Start reading NOW!
This is the BEST book in the entire Montague & Strong Universe!
In this novel, Monty and Simon have the best chemistry that I’ve read in any of their books. Their relationship has evolved into the perfect best friend, buddy cop, husband wife, odd couple relationship I have ever read. The insane level of snark and banter is incredible. The way they play off of each other is magnificent. Monty even has a sense of humor. Don’t even get me stared on Peaches. Peaches’ entry into any scene is hysterical. This is laugh out loud funny.
The plot is also amazing. It’s not just great writing. We get to see true growth in Simon. We also get to see a side of both Simon and Monty, that I think they didn’t know existed, thanks to a certain cold girl.
The supporting characters are some of the best in the M&S Universe. We get to revisit some of our favorite characters and we get to meet some extremely interesting new characters.
So don’t dawdle, Death should never be kept waiting. Start reading NOW!
October 19, 2022
I should have known it, when they mentioned a Golem a couple of books ago, that one of them would show up *laughs* Luckily, it wasn't Monty who summoned it. It's something, isn't it? :P
What we have here is Monty's disciple having a massive shift that almost left them without a home, a couple of bumbling paranormal investigators showing up (Bangers and Mash, seriously? I'm hungry, now!), some massive manipulation, the usual level of backstabbing and, of course, golems...
Strangely enough, they don't have to answer for any destruction in the city. Not because there wasn't any, mind you, but because they manage to get a powerful elder to fix it *dies laughing*
One thing I really liked was that I can see some growth in the characters, too. Monty is becoming less... Monty, in a good sense. He even smiled! And he's showing some sense of humour :P Simon is learning to accept whom he is now, and Peaches has a new, amazing power unlocked.
So, yes, another fun, entertaining book in this series, as always greatly narrated by Kevin T. Collins.
What we have here is Monty's disciple having a massive shift that almost left them without a home, a couple of bumbling paranormal investigators showing up (Bangers and Mash, seriously? I'm hungry, now!), some massive manipulation, the usual level of backstabbing and, of course, golems...
Strangely enough, they don't have to answer for any destruction in the city. Not because there wasn't any, mind you, but because they manage to get a powerful elder to fix it *dies laughing*
One thing I really liked was that I can see some growth in the characters, too. Monty is becoming less... Monty, in a good sense. He even smiled! And he's showing some sense of humour :P Simon is learning to accept whom he is now, and Peaches has a new, amazing power unlocked.
So, yes, another fun, entertaining book in this series, as always greatly narrated by Kevin T. Collins.
June 21, 2020
Here they go again
Another book high in the manipulation and back stabbing. I feel like we don't have enough info. Again, our heroes get played and involved in things that are high over their heads, and they are thrown in the middle of another potential catastrophe. Again, they manage to save the day, and this time, at least there are no huge amounts of destruction left in their wake, but they are still hated and not everyone is giving them the recognition they deserve.
There are a couple of characters that I just didn't get, what were they doing there? I don't know, are they another loose end we are going to find later? I think they deserve a little vacay after everything they've done, I know they won't get it and soon we will have them in another thankless job saving the city. I just hope we are going to finally get to learn what the deal with the Dark Council is.
Another book high in the manipulation and back stabbing. I feel like we don't have enough info. Again, our heroes get played and involved in things that are high over their heads, and they are thrown in the middle of another potential catastrophe. Again, they manage to save the day, and this time, at least there are no huge amounts of destruction left in their wake, but they are still hated and not everyone is giving them the recognition they deserve.
There are a couple of characters that I just didn't get, what were they doing there? I don't know, are they another loose end we are going to find later? I think they deserve a little vacay after everything they've done, I know they won't get it and soon we will have them in another thankless job saving the city. I just hope we are going to finally get to learn what the deal with the Dark Council is.
May 8, 2021
Book number 10 in Orlando Sanchez's 'Montage and Strong' series, and - much like Simon Strong - I'm beginning to feel lost with just what is going on.
According to Wikipedia:
"A golem is an animated anthropomorphic being in Jewish folklore that is created entirely from inanimate matter (usually clay or mud) ... The most famous golem narrative involves Judah Loew ben Bezalel, the late-16th-century rabbi of Prague"
Modern readers might be more familiar with them from their inclusion in the later entries in Terry Pratchett's superlative Discworld series.
In this one, a Golem has been created and is terrorizing select parts of New York, with Montague and Strong called in to deal - reluctantly - with the threat it represents.
According to Wikipedia:
"A golem is an animated anthropomorphic being in Jewish folklore that is created entirely from inanimate matter (usually clay or mud) ... The most famous golem narrative involves Judah Loew ben Bezalel, the late-16th-century rabbi of Prague"
Modern readers might be more familiar with them from their inclusion in the later entries in Terry Pratchett's superlative Discworld series.
In this one, a Golem has been created and is terrorizing select parts of New York, with Montague and Strong called in to deal - reluctantly - with the threat it represents.
December 24, 2019
Another fun entertaining story that sweeps you up into the Montague & Strong world. Explosions, maybe, destruction? well, that is something Monty and Simon try to prevent. But as we learned magic and mage made creations don't always work as planned, sometimes things get a little rocky!
To try and stop the newly created Golem from destroying New York and it's people both Simon and Monty are going to have to learn to view a few things differently. I definitely enjoyed the snark and dialogue between the characters, along with all the little easter eggs. When I met Bangers and Mash well let's just say I couldn't stop smiling, a few laughs might have slipped out also. Peaches, he's still his adorable, logical self. Seems his spending time with Frank has taught him a few things! Love that Hellhound.
To try and stop the newly created Golem from destroying New York and it's people both Simon and Monty are going to have to learn to view a few things differently. I definitely enjoyed the snark and dialogue between the characters, along with all the little easter eggs. When I met Bangers and Mash well let's just say I couldn't stop smiling, a few laughs might have slipped out also. Peaches, he's still his adorable, logical self. Seems his spending time with Frank has taught him a few things! Love that Hellhound.
December 24, 2019
This review is going to sound like ALL the others for the Montague and Strong Detective Novel's I've done but it a fact; IT'S AMAZING!!! They just get better and better with each new one!!! They all have a high stress level/edge of your seat, wondering what's going to happen!!! HOW are they going to defeat THIS baddie, the amazing banter between Monty and Strong is just soooo soooo FUNNY and witty!!! The Golem was a REALLY scary seemingly unstoppable force I thought but M&S pulled it off again!!! with more intrigue and closer calls than before.
I am still trying to decide who I like best but I can't imagine them apart or without the REST of the amazing cast of characters that I've come to LOVE SO VERY MUCH!!! This series is SIMPLY PERFECT!!! STILL dying to get Roxanne's story though. I await the next installment as "patiently" as ever!! ahahaa
I am still trying to decide who I like best but I can't imagine them apart or without the REST of the amazing cast of characters that I've come to LOVE SO VERY MUCH!!! This series is SIMPLY PERFECT!!! STILL dying to get Roxanne's story though. I await the next installment as "patiently" as ever!! ahahaa
May 11, 2022
The 10th book in the series, and it comes out swinging. I’ve missed reading in this series and the series is still as strong as ever. This time they have to take care of a mage that wants all the power and has created a golem to help him get to the magical hubs of power. Some fun parts are always in this series, and this one is no exception, with some supernatural wannabes in Bangers and Mash, Simon is at his best. The snark, the action and laugh out loud moments are all here, tucked within a great storyline.
If you are looking for a good urban fantasy series, I can’t recommend this one enough. It’s another series that would do well on film or series, but the casting would need to be perfect. We learn even more about Simon and Monty, and we can’t ever forget Peaches, and he may have finally eaten too much meat in this one. Reviewed by Cyrene
If you are looking for a good urban fantasy series, I can’t recommend this one enough. It’s another series that would do well on film or series, but the casting would need to be perfect. We learn even more about Simon and Monty, and we can’t ever forget Peaches, and he may have finally eaten too much meat in this one. Reviewed by Cyrene
January 19, 2020
Another great M&S story
After a cuppa with another new era author, I learned the importance of the reader review. If you enjoy urban fantasy, Sci-Fi or just a good read, go no further grab this or any of the M&S universe of books. Mr. Sanchez delivered as always. So I start here with one of the first of many reviews. Strong along with us finds there are many things to learn about this new world and where he fits in with it. Monty seems to finally be separating himself from the life he imagined to the reality of what is. Peaches would say "Meat is life" and I would agree if you added caffeine and a page to turn. Orlando if you are reading this... Stop.. Get some coffee and get back to work my bowl is empty!
After a cuppa with another new era author, I learned the importance of the reader review. If you enjoy urban fantasy, Sci-Fi or just a good read, go no further grab this or any of the M&S universe of books. Mr. Sanchez delivered as always. So I start here with one of the first of many reviews. Strong along with us finds there are many things to learn about this new world and where he fits in with it. Monty seems to finally be separating himself from the life he imagined to the reality of what is. Peaches would say "Meat is life" and I would agree if you added caffeine and a page to turn. Orlando if you are reading this... Stop.. Get some coffee and get back to work my bowl is empty!
January 15, 2020
The Golem
Wow! So good! I love Monty, Strong and Peaches. Orlando has written another cracker! I love seeing peaches grow and his obsession with meat, his way of working things out and of course his and Simon 's banter and their relationship. Simon is great and he is doing well, getting to grips with all of this. He is loyal and a good partner for Monty. Monty needs Simon and vice versa. I enjoyed this story and the journey it takes the characters on. I liked how the Gollum was dealt with... I'm not even gonna correct how auto correct spelt Golem.. Simon would appreciate it.
Wow! So good! I love Monty, Strong and Peaches. Orlando has written another cracker! I love seeing peaches grow and his obsession with meat, his way of working things out and of course his and Simon 's banter and their relationship. Simon is great and he is doing well, getting to grips with all of this. He is loyal and a good partner for Monty. Monty needs Simon and vice versa. I enjoyed this story and the journey it takes the characters on. I liked how the Gollum was dealt with... I'm not even gonna correct how auto correct spelt Golem.. Simon would appreciate it.
June 22, 2020
Once again Montague and Strong detective agency is on the case! What will Simon, Peaches, and Monty need to do to defeat a power hungry mage and his Golem? The answer, cause mayhem and destruction, while preventing Armageddon, of course. As Simon cause into better understanding of who and what he is and isn't, his connection with Peaches grows. But will he come to terms with his immortal existence in time to face his newest challenge? Once again Orlando Sanchez shows us: meat is life, a good cuppa or swig of javambrosia helps in any situation, and you really shouldn't keep Death waiting. Can't wait to see what happens next and how Michiko comes back and what the Dark Council will do.
July 27, 2021
Absolutely engaging battle mage action
Book 10 of Montague and Strong’s continuing struggle to save New York without destroying it, “one building at a time,” is a fast read, doesn’t lag when characters get injured and introduces new friends and foes.
Science Fiction cultural movie and tv references were hilariously overflowing in this installment by Orlando Sanchez.
I wonder if each book in the series could stand alone? There seems to be some repetition of introductory character descriptions, but these phrases would also be helpful if there were time gaps in between the reading of each book to remind us of Simon and Tristan compatriots from the previous books.
Book 10 of Montague and Strong’s continuing struggle to save New York without destroying it, “one building at a time,” is a fast read, doesn’t lag when characters get injured and introduces new friends and foes.
Science Fiction cultural movie and tv references were hilariously overflowing in this installment by Orlando Sanchez.
I wonder if each book in the series could stand alone? There seems to be some repetition of introductory character descriptions, but these phrases would also be helpful if there were time gaps in between the reading of each book to remind us of Simon and Tristan compatriots from the previous books.
December 24, 2019
Explosive magic and action along with sarcastic humor makes The Golem an amazing read!
The Golf pits two of my favorite characters Simon and Monty) up against a monstrous evil. This book is fantastic and full of explosive fun, magic and action. Simon gets stronger and there is, as always, sarcastic fun and hilarious dialogue. Monty and Simon, along with Peaches, race to save the city. I'm always incredibly entertained when I read these books. I can't put them down when I start and The Golem is no different. Simon, Monty, and Peaches always entertain. Love this series!
The Golf pits two of my favorite characters Simon and Monty) up against a monstrous evil. This book is fantastic and full of explosive fun, magic and action. Simon gets stronger and there is, as always, sarcastic fun and hilarious dialogue. Monty and Simon, along with Peaches, race to save the city. I'm always incredibly entertained when I read these books. I can't put them down when I start and The Golem is no different. Simon, Monty, and Peaches always entertain. Love this series!
December 30, 2019
Better than ever
Wow! Each M&S story is complete, stands well on its own yet clearly flows from one story to the next. Simon and Monty once again have to save New York city. They do it with their usual style, subtlety, and snark. Times Square survives as does the rest of the city (slightly surprising actually) in spite of a power-mad mage.
You can dive right in here and it's a wonderful read. If you go to the beginning you'll be able to truly appreciate the back references. Bottom line, this series always delivers. Enjoy.
Wow! Each M&S story is complete, stands well on its own yet clearly flows from one story to the next. Simon and Monty once again have to save New York city. They do it with their usual style, subtlety, and snark. Times Square survives as does the rest of the city (slightly surprising actually) in spite of a power-mad mage.
You can dive right in here and it's a wonderful read. If you go to the beginning you'll be able to truly appreciate the back references. Bottom line, this series always delivers. Enjoy.
January 26, 2020
Review
Simon and Monty have another earth-shattering problem to handle, but first they have to get CeCe the little ice mage to unfreeze the Warsaw, and expel the evil that has possessed the child.
And Peaches severely crushes on Rags. So
cute.
Then the guys must deal with Bangers and Mash, paranormal investigators who shouldn't be.
The big one-destroying a stone golem and the mage who created it.
Simon must keep Monty from going dark to destroy the enemy.
All while coming to terms with his immortality.
I love these guys, and Peaches.
Simon and Monty have another earth-shattering problem to handle, but first they have to get CeCe the little ice mage to unfreeze the Warsaw, and expel the evil that has possessed the child.
And Peaches severely crushes on Rags. So
cute.
Then the guys must deal with Bangers and Mash, paranormal investigators who shouldn't be.
The big one-destroying a stone golem and the mage who created it.
Simon must keep Monty from going dark to destroy the enemy.
All while coming to terms with his immortality.
I love these guys, and Peaches.
February 14, 2020
Clay Man
Another adventure of Simon, Monty and Peaches! Such excellent story with plenty of action but the humor of Simon, Monty and Peaches keeps everything flowing along. This story is a favor for Ezra but the person involved is a person of the Red Mountain group who needs help and is undergoing a growth spurt. Well you will discover that Jen, is not entirely truthful but in the end she does her part. Follow the story through humor twists and turns but you will enjoy the book as Simon is never dull!
Another adventure of Simon, Monty and Peaches! Such excellent story with plenty of action but the humor of Simon, Monty and Peaches keeps everything flowing along. This story is a favor for Ezra but the person involved is a person of the Red Mountain group who needs help and is undergoing a growth spurt. Well you will discover that Jen, is not entirely truthful but in the end she does her part. Follow the story through humor twists and turns but you will enjoy the book as Simon is never dull!
December 23, 2019
Power corrupts
Once again M&S are thrown into what could become an impossible task and they have to deal with two of them. Tristan proves once again that hes willing to make the ultimate sacrifice when faced with no other option & Strong is his shield bearer, protecting him against himself. Peaches is the star of the show and grows right before our eyes, it's a beautiful thing to watch.
Once again M&S are thrown into what could become an impossible task and they have to deal with two of them. Tristan proves once again that hes willing to make the ultimate sacrifice when faced with no other option & Strong is his shield bearer, protecting him against himself. Peaches is the star of the show and grows right before our eyes, it's a beautiful thing to watch.
December 24, 2019
Golems are only legend, mindless rock creatures requiring tremendous power to create and control. Impossible or highly improbable. But this is the world of Monty & Simon where anything can happen and someone has created a Golem and it's attacking the hubs of power threatening "their" city. It'll take new friends and allies to defend Times square, can they stop the Golem and the powerful mage controling it? A great new adventure in the Montague & Strong world.
December 24, 2019
Overpowered mage with a stolen artifact? Check. Ability for said artifact to create & control indestructible Golems while siphoning magic sources? Check. Failed couples therapy? Check. What do you do when NY is faced with a threat nobody wants to face? Call in the Trio of Devastation, landmark decorators extraordinaire! But, when faced with a landmark even they hesitate to relocate from the physical plane, all bets are off.
A truly action-packed and hilarious installment of M&S.
A truly action-packed and hilarious installment of M&S.
January 5, 2020
Note to newbie readers: IMHO this book isn’t a stand-alone.
Montague & Strong (and Peaches) return in their tenth outing, this time battling a Golem. I enjoy this series, because I like how author Orlando Sanchez allows his already-well-developed characters to learn and continue growing into their powers. As always, the author adds more lore to the M&S universe, continuing to build a richer world.
Montague & Strong (and Peaches) return in their tenth outing, this time battling a Golem. I enjoy this series, because I like how author Orlando Sanchez allows his already-well-developed characters to learn and continue growing into their powers. As always, the author adds more lore to the M&S universe, continuing to build a richer world.
January 6, 2020
Monty and Strong (and Peaches) are back with all of the landmark destroying prowess that you have come to expect. A rival mage, in order to grow his power, has released an unstoppable Golem on M&S's city. If they can't stop this one, there won't be a city left, and maybe much worse. This one is full of the antics that you have come to expect, as well as introducing an..."interesting"....new team for our trio to work with. Definitely a fun ride.
June 13, 2020
The saga of Peaches continues
I really need to pace myself. I’ve chewed through all ten Montague and Strong novels plus all the short stories and Chi’s arc. To paraphrase Peaches, books are life. And I need more. Every time Amazon notifies me there is a new Orlando Sanchez book available, I’ll happily hand over my money to get another fix of snark, pop culture references, magic and pastrami.
I really need to pace myself. I’ve chewed through all ten Montague and Strong novels plus all the short stories and Chi’s arc. To paraphrase Peaches, books are life. And I need more. Every time Amazon notifies me there is a new Orlando Sanchez book available, I’ll happily hand over my money to get another fix of snark, pop culture references, magic and pastrami.
July 15, 2020
Great character development.
The characters have grown throughout the series but remain true to themselves - quite a feat for book #10. I like how Simon grows angrier and more powerful in each volume. Fast paced drama that is hard to put down. Even though each book has a solid ending I immediately find the next volume & start reading. Looking forward to seeing these characters in other series.
The characters have grown throughout the series but remain true to themselves - quite a feat for book #10. I like how Simon grows angrier and more powerful in each volume. Fast paced drama that is hard to put down. Even though each book has a solid ending I immediately find the next volume & start reading. Looking forward to seeing these characters in other series.
December 23, 2021
Triple Trouble....
To the rescue????
There are some days that is wives want to take out a hit on their husbands, but we don't do it. We sigh and make loud noises while plotting their demise, in various ways, mentally lol.
But Simon, Tristan and Peaches get hired to capture a Mage gone wild.
But not till they're well into him kicking their butts, do they find a little nugget that they SHOULD have been told/ask at the start.I
Oh and I adore Peaches crush 💖💖💖
To the rescue????
There are some days that is wives want to take out a hit on their husbands, but we don't do it. We sigh and make loud noises while plotting their demise, in various ways, mentally lol.
But Simon, Tristan and Peaches get hired to capture a Mage gone wild.
But not till they're well into him kicking their butts, do they find a little nugget that they SHOULD have been told/ask at the start.I
Oh and I adore Peaches crush 💖💖💖
December 1, 2022
Book 10 Golem does not disappoint
I really liked the character Jen who stepped in to meter out justice to her husband. Monty and Strong were there holding both Toson and the Golem keeping them away from the hub and fighting them with everything they had. Peaches did his part and spewed hellfire at the Golem and Toson. Of course Jen assisted in nudging this new power for peaches. Loved all the action.
I really liked the character Jen who stepped in to meter out justice to her husband. Monty and Strong were there holding both Toson and the Golem keeping them away from the hub and fighting them with everything they had. Peaches did his part and spewed hellfire at the Golem and Toson. Of course Jen assisted in nudging this new power for peaches. Loved all the action.
Read
December 24, 2019The best M&S,and Peaches yet!
This was one helluva ride! As usual the action and wit were nonstop. Simon was snarky, Tristan was ( not so vaguely ) condescending and Peaches was awesomely hellhoundish, (not to mention perpetually hungry). And the whole crew were, as usual, devastatingly devestating! I LOVE THIS BOOK!
This was one helluva ride! As usual the action and wit were nonstop. Simon was snarky, Tristan was ( not so vaguely ) condescending and Peaches was awesomely hellhoundish, (not to mention perpetually hungry). And the whole crew were, as usual, devastatingly devestating! I LOVE THIS BOOK!
December 24, 2019
The guys are back home and things are already getting exciting! And Peaches is right in the middle of everything. I just love the conversations between Monty and Simon and between Simon and Peaches. Of course, Simon, Monty and Peaches save the day but how they get there is a great journey. Make time for this book because you won’t be able to put it down once you start it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 118 reviews