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Montague & Strong Detective Agency #12
Walking the Razor
The brightest light casts the darkest shadow.
Would you kill to save a life?
In order to save those closest to him, Tristan has stepped closer to darkness.
In order to save Tristan, Simon must do the impossible.
When Monty uses blood magic, he enters a schism—which puts him, and everyone close to him, in mortal danger. His use of blood magic has alerted the Black Orchid, a mage sect tasked with apprehending and eliminating dark mages.
Now, Simon, with help from Monty’s closest allies and family, must find a way to stop him from going over to the darkness. If they fail, Monty will surrender to darkness, the Black Orchid will attempt to eliminate him, and Evers will be one step closer to her goal: the destruction of magic.
No one said it was ever easy in the Montague & Strong Detective Agency.
Would you kill to save a life?
In order to save those closest to him, Tristan has stepped closer to darkness.
In order to save Tristan, Simon must do the impossible.
When Monty uses blood magic, he enters a schism—which puts him, and everyone close to him, in mortal danger. His use of blood magic has alerted the Black Orchid, a mage sect tasked with apprehending and eliminating dark mages.
Now, Simon, with help from Monty’s closest allies and family, must find a way to stop him from going over to the darkness. If they fail, Monty will surrender to darkness, the Black Orchid will attempt to eliminate him, and Evers will be one step closer to her goal: the destruction of magic.
No one said it was ever easy in the Montague & Strong Detective Agency.
302 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 5, 2020
329 people are currently reading
117 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.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 113 reviews
January 20, 2022
3.5*
I’d decided going in this would be my last M&S book. While Peaches is simply adorable Simon and Monty however are wearing thin. Parts of this I enjoyed more than normal. The story seemed better and had some interesting new characters thrown in (I’m considering reading Grey’s books after these). But Simon seemed even more dense and annoying. I know what you’re thinking how is that even possible? Trust me it is.
But it looks like his past might be catching up with him. So I’m going to stick around and see. Hopefully I won’t be disappointed.
I’d decided going in this would be my last M&S book. While Peaches is simply adorable Simon and Monty however are wearing thin. Parts of this I enjoyed more than normal. The story seemed better and had some interesting new characters thrown in (I’m considering reading Grey’s books after these). But Simon seemed even more dense and annoying. I know what you’re thinking how is that even possible? Trust me it is.
But it looks like his past might be catching up with him. So I’m going to stick around and see. Hopefully I won’t be disappointed.
December 12, 2020
Wow! Action, snark, Easter Eggs and life lessons. Orlando Sanchez is totally amazing. This story just never stopped it is so great!
And, some of my favorite characters make appearances. Of course, Peaches is still my favorite. I really want to give Peaches meat and pet him.
I think that my favorite line begins-“Hallo, my name is Simon Strong...”.
If you like action, humor and great stories, you will love Walking the Razor!
And, some of my favorite characters make appearances. Of course, Peaches is still my favorite. I really want to give Peaches meat and pet him.
I think that my favorite line begins-“Hallo, my name is Simon Strong...”.
If you like action, humor and great stories, you will love Walking the Razor!
December 7, 2020
Dynamic. The pace, occurrences, wit, and sense of anticipation throughout was exhilarating. So many past threads and nuggets of information given in the past helped weave this tale. Left me on the edge of my seat ordering my eyes to process faster, almost like surfing a runaway train and enjoying it. Awesome work.
October 21, 2022
Well, shit! All hell broke loose in this book. Hunted down by every magical sect and by enemies from Monty's past things don't look well for any of the involved.
Simon must do the impossible and then more to try and save Monty. But he is not without allies: TK and LD particularly. And Dex, OMG! Dex is beyond powerful and, yeah, he didn't fool me for a second, but I understood why he did what he did.
Kali... terrifying, yes, but also the giver of powerful gifts when Simon was in dire need. She's not kind and yet she helped Simon; the cost, though? We still don't know it.
Simon's development in this book is probably the best part of it. His reluctance to accept his place in the supernatural world is addressed, and, for the first time, his need for this found family is as evident as his fierce protectiveness of them.
All that said, do I still need to say that I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys urban fantasy?
Simon must do the impossible and then more to try and save Monty. But he is not without allies: TK and LD particularly. And Dex, OMG! Dex is beyond powerful and, yeah, he didn't fool me for a second, but I understood why he did what he did.
Kali... terrifying, yes, but also the giver of powerful gifts when Simon was in dire need. She's not kind and yet she helped Simon; the cost, though? We still don't know it.
Simon's development in this book is probably the best part of it. His reluctance to accept his place in the supernatural world is addressed, and, for the first time, his need for this found family is as evident as his fierce protectiveness of them.
All that said, do I still need to say that I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys urban fantasy?
December 7, 2020
Get ready for a ride!!
Simon is fighting for Monty"s life, almost literally. Monty is in danger of going dark mage and Simon is the one that can stop him but what he needs to do to prepare is unbelievable. Kali makes another appearance, Dex is on a tear, Grey Stryder helps fight off one of the bad guys, and TK & LD are up to their usual in this latest from Orlando Sanchez. Simon must learn to harness his skills, old and new, to fight both Monty and those against him, but is told to use the unlikliest of talents in his battles this time. Love some of the new terminlogy!! Great read!!
Simon is fighting for Monty"s life, almost literally. Monty is in danger of going dark mage and Simon is the one that can stop him but what he needs to do to prepare is unbelievable. Kali makes another appearance, Dex is on a tear, Grey Stryder helps fight off one of the bad guys, and TK & LD are up to their usual in this latest from Orlando Sanchez. Simon must learn to harness his skills, old and new, to fight both Monty and those against him, but is told to use the unlikliest of talents in his battles this time. Love some of the new terminlogy!! Great read!!
December 7, 2020
This book maybe my favorite, it's hard to say because each book keeps getting you more involved in Simon and Monty's world. In this story we get involvement from TK, LD, Dex, Grey, and a few others each doing their part to save not only Monty, but Simon as well! With everything that happens I think both Monty and Simon will be changed forever. I couldn't put this story down, the pages just kept turning, the action just kept coming! Well done. As the history of the individuals in this world keep getting revealed we are going to be in for some surprises.
September 22, 2021
Always a pleasure
Orlando Sanchez will have to screw up beyond any destruction Montague and Strong create to get me to stop reading this series! Fun fast paced and always full of action but always leaving me wanting more.
Orlando Sanchez will have to screw up beyond any destruction Montague and Strong create to get me to stop reading this series! Fun fast paced and always full of action but always leaving me wanting more.
December 11, 2020
Physical book
December 28, 2020
Orlando Sanchez has mastered the non cliffhanger, cliffhanger. Crisis obverted. Bad-guy eliminated. Situation Normal? Hell no, there's a freight barreling down on us. Hurry the hell up Orlando, you can't leave us here.
December 6, 2020
What's next
Each book just keeps better with the character development as well as revelations about their past. Really enjoyed this one and will be eagerly anticipating the next!
Each book just keeps better with the character development as well as revelations about their past. Really enjoyed this one and will be eagerly anticipating the next!
December 26, 2020
The book needs more Peaches
I usually like Simon, his silly act and silliest jokes, but it feels like too much. The fact that he is just a piece in the gods' games is even more obvious now, and even if they went on and on over choices, it felt like everything was already decided. Simon's stupid act is starting to get old, and I feel there's so much we don't know that is missing, and would help us understand better everything that's going on.
Tristan is in danger, and only Simon can save him, but first he must go through a lot of pain and problems, visit a lot of places, do a lot of stupid, dangerous things, and face some scary people, but as we know, everything works out at the end. And I really hope he learns his lessons and stops being so oblivious all the time. Several times he gets called for whinning about his situation, and it's not only people around him, I'm getting tired of his excuses, but it seems that in the next book we will get a taste of his past, I really hope it helps understand everything a little better and makes him less annoying.
I usually like Simon, his silly act and silliest jokes, but it feels like too much. The fact that he is just a piece in the gods' games is even more obvious now, and even if they went on and on over choices, it felt like everything was already decided. Simon's stupid act is starting to get old, and I feel there's so much we don't know that is missing, and would help us understand better everything that's going on.
Tristan is in danger, and only Simon can save him, but first he must go through a lot of pain and problems, visit a lot of places, do a lot of stupid, dangerous things, and face some scary people, but as we know, everything works out at the end. And I really hope he learns his lessons and stops being so oblivious all the time. Several times he gets called for whinning about his situation, and it's not only people around him, I'm getting tired of his excuses, but it seems that in the next book we will get a taste of his past, I really hope it helps understand everything a little better and makes him less annoying.
July 3, 2021
I love this series. They definitely don't have the best writing in the world, but the story is just so good that I am able to completely ignore that fact. I don't know how the author came up with this story, but he did a really good job. The story just keeps getting better and better to the point where I'm still reading the series twelve books in. Plus, I love Simon, he is definitely one of my favorite characters in the series. That, and his bond with Peaches. There was a bit of a cliffhanger ending, which makes me really excited about the next one in the series.
November 26, 2021
3 1/2 stars. This is Monty lite and not as destructive as normally but still lots of fun. Some things are finally cleared up but don't worry, what happened here is setting up for the next 10 books so there is plenty to look forward to.
September 8, 2022
I've skipped several book reviews simply because I can't put the books down fast enough to pull together cogent thoughts and write a review. I just get the next book and keep reading. Sometimes staying up all night to do so.
However...
There's always one of those, right?
Simon's idiot schtick is getting tiresome. Sometimes it's not like reading about a grown man who has an awesome (awesome as in impressive or awe inspiring with a hard cost) set of powers and equally awesome responsibility on his shoulders. I get it, he didn't ask for it, even if his mouth continues to write checks that his body can barely cash.
Sometimes the thick convoluted mage-talk gets wearisome. Yes, yes, yes, I get it. This is some mind bending technical mage power we have going but for him to continue to be a snarky, smart-mouthed asshole who suddenly develops the intellect of a 12 year old...come on. He's been thrown in the deep end but after this many books, don't you think he'd be able to do more than dog paddle?
Seriously, if I were one of the powers in the world and he continued to be disrespectful, he'd be a burned spot on the ground. Why none of them do is beyond me.
That said, the story is really ramping up. Things are happening to Monty. Deep, serious, world altering/ending things and poor Simon with this diminished ability to do anymore than think in movie quotes and irritating cliches (really, the author needs to crank back on the pop culture references. those never age well), has to keep up before Monty finally is consumed by his decisions isn't really up to the task except for the deus ex machina association with goddesses who all think the only response to his smart mouth is not utter oblivion but a good slap in the face.
Seriously, can these overpowered female characters do more than punch and slap him or *any* of the overpowered characters look at him like he's mentally damaged? Surely another specimen could be found to do their bidding other than this child trapped in a man's body.
Then there's Monty who is supposed to be this ultra badass mage and yet he is not willing to admit that he's done some sketchy things and they're starting to take its toll on him. Even going so far as to deny to the very partner who can see it happening and is *trying* to warn him he can see the sliding into the dark. If he goes into denial that he was at the edge in the subsequent books, if he isn't apologetic that he said some really nasty stuff to Simon under the influence of this darkness (which is supposedly to touch on what the mage undergoing this schism really thinks and feels as they fall into that darkness), the star rating is going to start sliding down too. And don't give me the whole 'Monty wasn't fighting at full power, deep down he knew what was happening and he was trying to save Simon'. That may be true, but he...and Dex...both owe Simon an apology for blaming him over the current circumstances.
I don't actually agree with every other character in the book that Simon is just as guilty of the wholesale destruction as Monty. Monty is a mage of extraordinary power. Monty's culpable, yet he always sidesteps, deflects it onto Simon and denies it. This piling on of Simon is getting old. Even if he is irritating.
Peaches is Peaches and sometimes the schtick of Meat is Life and the long conversations as Peaches (or Simon) willfully misunderstand and they get into this Laurel and Hardy routine to get their point across gets a little redundant. It's like listening to two children quarrel in the back seat of a loooong vacation drive. But I love Peaches so...I'm cutting him a break. Even though Meat is important, he does come through for Simon. Simon's protective streak and attachment to him is actually touching.
So...you may be asking...if I actively dislike Simon Strong *so much* and appear to have *such issue* with the stance that the characters take sometimes, why am I plowing through the books to the tune of one every two days?
I love the world building, I love the surrounding characters, I love the magic system (although I could do without the author pontificating about the magic in detail which then sets up Simon to be a dick about it, leading to pages and pages of trying to explain patiently to this man-child who takes nothing seriously the magnitude of the situation/power/magic that is happening...and skim through those tedious paragraphs as it feels more like word padding than anything needed). The plots and stories themselves are interesting enough and reading to see what Simon, Monty and Peaches do to help resolve the situation (and the wholesale physical collateral damage) is satisfying enough to keep me reading and give it four stars for being engaging.
The books have been slow in developing the maturity of the author's ability but I have seen it. Then Simon gets all Wile E. Coyote and I just sigh...and then skim to get to the *really* interesting characters and action.
However...
There's always one of those, right?
Simon's idiot schtick is getting tiresome. Sometimes it's not like reading about a grown man who has an awesome (awesome as in impressive or awe inspiring with a hard cost) set of powers and equally awesome responsibility on his shoulders. I get it, he didn't ask for it, even if his mouth continues to write checks that his body can barely cash.
Sometimes the thick convoluted mage-talk gets wearisome. Yes, yes, yes, I get it. This is some mind bending technical mage power we have going but for him to continue to be a snarky, smart-mouthed asshole who suddenly develops the intellect of a 12 year old...come on. He's been thrown in the deep end but after this many books, don't you think he'd be able to do more than dog paddle?
Seriously, if I were one of the powers in the world and he continued to be disrespectful, he'd be a burned spot on the ground. Why none of them do is beyond me.
That said, the story is really ramping up. Things are happening to Monty. Deep, serious, world altering/ending things and poor Simon with this diminished ability to do anymore than think in movie quotes and irritating cliches (really, the author needs to crank back on the pop culture references. those never age well), has to keep up before Monty finally is consumed by his decisions isn't really up to the task except for the deus ex machina association with goddesses who all think the only response to his smart mouth is not utter oblivion but a good slap in the face.
Seriously, can these overpowered female characters do more than punch and slap him or *any* of the overpowered characters look at him like he's mentally damaged? Surely another specimen could be found to do their bidding other than this child trapped in a man's body.
Then there's Monty who is supposed to be this ultra badass mage and yet he is not willing to admit that he's done some sketchy things and they're starting to take its toll on him. Even going so far as to deny to the very partner who can see it happening and is *trying* to warn him he can see the sliding into the dark. If he goes into denial that he was at the edge in the subsequent books, if he isn't apologetic that he said some really nasty stuff to Simon under the influence of this darkness (which is supposedly to touch on what the mage undergoing this schism really thinks and feels as they fall into that darkness), the star rating is going to start sliding down too. And don't give me the whole 'Monty wasn't fighting at full power, deep down he knew what was happening and he was trying to save Simon'. That may be true, but he...and Dex...both owe Simon an apology for blaming him over the current circumstances.
I don't actually agree with every other character in the book that Simon is just as guilty of the wholesale destruction as Monty. Monty is a mage of extraordinary power. Monty's culpable, yet he always sidesteps, deflects it onto Simon and denies it. This piling on of Simon is getting old. Even if he is irritating.
Peaches is Peaches and sometimes the schtick of Meat is Life and the long conversations as Peaches (or Simon) willfully misunderstand and they get into this Laurel and Hardy routine to get their point across gets a little redundant. It's like listening to two children quarrel in the back seat of a loooong vacation drive. But I love Peaches so...I'm cutting him a break. Even though Meat is important, he does come through for Simon. Simon's protective streak and attachment to him is actually touching.
So...you may be asking...if I actively dislike Simon Strong *so much* and appear to have *such issue* with the stance that the characters take sometimes, why am I plowing through the books to the tune of one every two days?
I love the world building, I love the surrounding characters, I love the magic system (although I could do without the author pontificating about the magic in detail which then sets up Simon to be a dick about it, leading to pages and pages of trying to explain patiently to this man-child who takes nothing seriously the magnitude of the situation/power/magic that is happening...and skim through those tedious paragraphs as it feels more like word padding than anything needed). The plots and stories themselves are interesting enough and reading to see what Simon, Monty and Peaches do to help resolve the situation (and the wholesale physical collateral damage) is satisfying enough to keep me reading and give it four stars for being engaging.
The books have been slow in developing the maturity of the author's ability but I have seen it. Then Simon gets all Wile E. Coyote and I just sigh...and then skim to get to the *really* interesting characters and action.
December 8, 2020
Mr I'm not a mage is now on a dangerous mage watchlist.
What does it mean to be dark? Does it necessarily equate to evil? Just how far would you go for family? These, and other lightweight questions are the core of this book.
Orlando Sanchez has created a multifaceted world with the Montague and Strong detective agency novels and with each subsequent venture into the world we get to learn more about Simon and Tristan as these characters evolve.
Simon's energy signature is all over the place. Tristan is missing presumed contemplating a future as Darth Monty. The Black Orchid, the mages tasked with oversight of the sects have sent one of their own to the slaughter‐though who'll do the slaughtering remains up in there air as she cluelessly keeps poking the bear that is Simon wanting to protect Monty. Add in a touch of Dex going Dex and we're at the first precipice of the roller-coaster ride we got on in Dark Glass.
Do you have to have read the earlier books to get the best out of Walking The Razor; yes, all of them. Luckily books 1-3 and 4-6 are complations if you haven’t read any of the M&S books and the series is well worth curling up with. Snark, sass, coffee, and a hunger hell-hound will keep you amused. Buckle in and join us on the ride of a lifetime with a series where the characters grow as the story is told. This series is really about family: those who stand with you, and those who catch you when you fall.
More please, Mr Sanchez.
That is the strength of this series above all else: growth.
What does it mean to be dark? Does it necessarily equate to evil? Just how far would you go for family? These, and other lightweight questions are the core of this book.
Orlando Sanchez has created a multifaceted world with the Montague and Strong detective agency novels and with each subsequent venture into the world we get to learn more about Simon and Tristan as these characters evolve.
Simon's energy signature is all over the place. Tristan is missing presumed contemplating a future as Darth Monty. The Black Orchid, the mages tasked with oversight of the sects have sent one of their own to the slaughter‐though who'll do the slaughtering remains up in there air as she cluelessly keeps poking the bear that is Simon wanting to protect Monty. Add in a touch of Dex going Dex and we're at the first precipice of the roller-coaster ride we got on in Dark Glass.
Do you have to have read the earlier books to get the best out of Walking The Razor; yes, all of them. Luckily books 1-3 and 4-6 are complations if you haven’t read any of the M&S books and the series is well worth curling up with. Snark, sass, coffee, and a hunger hell-hound will keep you amused. Buckle in and join us on the ride of a lifetime with a series where the characters grow as the story is told. This series is really about family: those who stand with you, and those who catch you when you fall.
More please, Mr Sanchez.
That is the strength of this series above all else: growth.
December 8, 2020
A brilliant, turning point story. Not a standalone, TBC in the next book
Before starting on “Walking the Razor,” I suggest you read “Dark Glass” (M&S #11), and book #3 of the “Blood Rule” series which features Director Nakatomi Michiko and Night Warden Grey Stryder. Events in these earlier books take place just before “Walking the Razor.”
I enjoyed the “Simon must save Monty” storyline, but I was more invested in the dangerous changes Simon is suffering. There are lots of Simon and Peaches in “Walking the Razor,” so warning: repetitive meat-eating dialogue and snarky repartee. At times, I wanted to smack Simon upside the head just to shut him up. Happily, Simon meets Grey and havoc ensues.
The action is great, but I really enjoyed the character-driven aspects of this story. Yes, Monty will undergo a dangerous change, but I’m right there with Simon as he, too, grows and changes—stretching his character, with hints of more changes to come. Also, I was tickled to read about the mage trio of TK, LD, and Dex (minus his partner, the Morrigan). As for newbie trainees, I like Byako of “Blood Rule,” and Koda, Grey’s trainee. IMHO, Jessikah is too annoying.
I’m happy this rollercoaster of a book has a partial ending, but I await the next entry. I knocked off a star for the incomplete ending and Simon’s cliffhanger.
Before starting on “Walking the Razor,” I suggest you read “Dark Glass” (M&S #11), and book #3 of the “Blood Rule” series which features Director Nakatomi Michiko and Night Warden Grey Stryder. Events in these earlier books take place just before “Walking the Razor.”
I enjoyed the “Simon must save Monty” storyline, but I was more invested in the dangerous changes Simon is suffering. There are lots of Simon and Peaches in “Walking the Razor,” so warning: repetitive meat-eating dialogue and snarky repartee. At times, I wanted to smack Simon upside the head just to shut him up. Happily, Simon meets Grey and havoc ensues.
The action is great, but I really enjoyed the character-driven aspects of this story. Yes, Monty will undergo a dangerous change, but I’m right there with Simon as he, too, grows and changes—stretching his character, with hints of more changes to come. Also, I was tickled to read about the mage trio of TK, LD, and Dex (minus his partner, the Morrigan). As for newbie trainees, I like Byako of “Blood Rule,” and Koda, Grey’s trainee. IMHO, Jessikah is too annoying.
I’m happy this rollercoaster of a book has a partial ending, but I await the next entry. I knocked off a star for the incomplete ending and Simon’s cliffhanger.
April 30, 2024
Just Keeps Getting Better!
Truly a masterful piece of fiction! I have never yelled out loud at a book so many times. I FELT things reading this book. To be clear, Orlando Sanchez has ALWAYS written books that entertained me and amused me. This might be the first one that...hurt me a bit. In the best possible way. Simon, Monty and Peaches have become comfort characters for me. I always want them safe and whole and healthy. Which is ridiculous given the lives they lead, I know, but I cannot stop myself. I just want to wrap all three of them in blankets and feed them snacks, coffee and tea (and sausage) until they are a little less traumatized.
But even more than my desire to comfort these fictional characters, I walked away from this book with a DEEP gratitude for my loved ones. I have amazing family and friends. And, much like Simon, they have become my family. This particular book made me really look at those relationships and appreciate them even more. It made me think about what I would do for them and what they would do for me. Just...really good stuff from Mr. Sanchez. A BEAUTIFUL story of resilience and purpose. This series is ramping up and I cannot wait!
Truly a masterful piece of fiction! I have never yelled out loud at a book so many times. I FELT things reading this book. To be clear, Orlando Sanchez has ALWAYS written books that entertained me and amused me. This might be the first one that...hurt me a bit. In the best possible way. Simon, Monty and Peaches have become comfort characters for me. I always want them safe and whole and healthy. Which is ridiculous given the lives they lead, I know, but I cannot stop myself. I just want to wrap all three of them in blankets and feed them snacks, coffee and tea (and sausage) until they are a little less traumatized.
But even more than my desire to comfort these fictional characters, I walked away from this book with a DEEP gratitude for my loved ones. I have amazing family and friends. And, much like Simon, they have become my family. This particular book made me really look at those relationships and appreciate them even more. It made me think about what I would do for them and what they would do for me. Just...really good stuff from Mr. Sanchez. A BEAUTIFUL story of resilience and purpose. This series is ramping up and I cannot wait!
December 8, 2020
Welcome to the Dark Side
What do you do when family takes a dark path? You grab your Hellhound bondmate and go drag their butt back to the light. It's bad enough when you are talking about a rebellious teen with weapons forged of sarcasm and hubris; but, when you are talking about an uber powerful mage, trained to stand and die in battle? Well that's a whole other ballgame. Simon is faced with just this after Tristan gets hit by an enemy thought long dead, knocking him into the mage version of the Matrix. Once this is known publicly, every faction out there will send hitters to take Tristan out before he becomes a danger they cannot control. Meanwhile, Simon must wrangle a disgraced covert ops rep, Tristan's crazy Uncle Dex, and 2 of the scariest mages to ever walk this, or any planet, all while trying to get to Tristan and talk some sense into him, before his past comes to collect its dues. Tristan may be facing his greatest challenge, but it seems Simon is the one walking the razor's edge--and the clock is ticking. Will he get to him in time--and will he survive the encounter if he does? Grab your copy and find out!
What do you do when family takes a dark path? You grab your Hellhound bondmate and go drag their butt back to the light. It's bad enough when you are talking about a rebellious teen with weapons forged of sarcasm and hubris; but, when you are talking about an uber powerful mage, trained to stand and die in battle? Well that's a whole other ballgame. Simon is faced with just this after Tristan gets hit by an enemy thought long dead, knocking him into the mage version of the Matrix. Once this is known publicly, every faction out there will send hitters to take Tristan out before he becomes a danger they cannot control. Meanwhile, Simon must wrangle a disgraced covert ops rep, Tristan's crazy Uncle Dex, and 2 of the scariest mages to ever walk this, or any planet, all while trying to get to Tristan and talk some sense into him, before his past comes to collect its dues. Tristan may be facing his greatest challenge, but it seems Simon is the one walking the razor's edge--and the clock is ticking. Will he get to him in time--and will he survive the encounter if he does? Grab your copy and find out!
December 10, 2020
This series just gets better as it goes along. Tristan is the one walking the razor between the darkness and the light, but the story focuses on Simon's efforts to find and save his friend. I don't want to spoil the story for anyone, so I won't go into much detail here, but Simon's personal growth and determination to help Monty while he himself is experiencing wild fluctuations in his own energy signature feature in the story. He gets help and advice from LD, TK, and even the Night Warden and Erik. Simon fights someone he thought was a friend and battles an avowed enemy of magic, in a unique pocket of reality, all while on the run from the Dark Council and the Black Orchid. With Peaches by Simon's side, philosophizing on life and meat, and Kali meting out painful life lessons, Simon negotiates a harrowing trail to both survive and try to bring his friend back from the edge. Exciting, fast-paced, and surprising, this story is a must read for fans of the Montague and Strong Detective Agency!
December 8, 2020
Well! This was an awesome story. M&S are in a serious mess. Monty is in a schism and is sinking into the dark side. Strong is trying his best to help him and he rounds up some of his and Monty's friends and Uncle Dex to help. Simon is caught up with a Black Orchid that is being set to be killed, he needs to find Monty, Kali gives him a lot of pain, Peaches says he stinks, the Black Orchids are after him and Monty and his "signature" is off and other magical beings can track him like he is a beacon. Now I tell you, if that isn't enough to "wet" your appetite, I don't know what is. Can Simon find Monty before he falls into the schism and the dark side. Can he learn enough about his new powers before it is too late...or is it already simply too late. This is one you will want to read
December 15, 2020
I loved this book! I have read all of the M&S books to date with the exception of a couple of the side books. I love the trio of Monty, Simon and Peaches. For the most part in my opinion Peaches is the star but Monty and his teacup would most assuredly disagree. In Walking the Razor Monty my old friend has gone dark-ish and Simon goes to hell and back, somewhat literally to save him, cause he is FAMILY! We don't leave family to go dark, and a Dark Monty, would be a disaster to end all disasters.
So, for the first time ever Simon Strong gets to shine all on his lonesome and boy does he ever shine. If you haven't read this yet RUN to your bookstore, pull up Amazon or whoever you buy your books from and buy or use KU to get this awesome book. NOW.. did you think that was a suggestion?
So, for the first time ever Simon Strong gets to shine all on his lonesome and boy does he ever shine. If you haven't read this yet RUN to your bookstore, pull up Amazon or whoever you buy your books from and buy or use KU to get this awesome book. NOW.. did you think that was a suggestion?
September 16, 2023
Wow a contest of stupid
Yes it's an official contest of stupid between Simon and Jessikah wow. In this world of lots of made up terms and the ever constant flowing many many sci-fi references star trek "red shirts" going "dark side" doctor who "tardis" and simon's constant avoidance and fear issues. The constant rush rush pace gets a bit tiring at times.
It tries too hard at times and just doesn't flow very well at time. The Simon and Monty comedy pars are funny and don't forget Peaches that alone makes the stories good.
I wish I had an opportunity to help write or create a series. I live to read and read all the time so I should know how a good plot flow looks like.
Yes it's an official contest of stupid between Simon and Jessikah wow. In this world of lots of made up terms and the ever constant flowing many many sci-fi references star trek "red shirts" going "dark side" doctor who "tardis" and simon's constant avoidance and fear issues. The constant rush rush pace gets a bit tiring at times.
It tries too hard at times and just doesn't flow very well at time. The Simon and Monty comedy pars are funny and don't forget Peaches that alone makes the stories good.
I wish I had an opportunity to help write or create a series. I live to read and read all the time so I should know how a good plot flow looks like.
December 7, 2020
Walking the Razor may be the best Montague and Strong book yet! It’s got a meaty plot, brings in some of our old friends plus newer enemies, and we learn more about the backgrounds of some of them. The story involves personal growth for several characters. Simon’s development is especially interesting, and Jessikah shows some growth with potential for much more in future books. I really enjoyed this book, it has its full share of snark, sarcasm, action, mayhem, and humor. And it includes this excellent observation: “You should always fear an old man in a profession where people die young.” What more could you ask for?
March 29, 2021
Fun book!
I really enjoy these books, they’re so much fun!
One (of the many) reasons I enjoy these books is that the female characters are really well written. Yes, they tend to be strong (which I appreciate) but more importantly, you get the sense that they all have lives outside the main characters. I notice that that tends to be pretty rare in fantasy novels with male main characters. I’ve missed seeing Chi in the last couple of books but loved her mini-series.
Now that I’ve read (or listened) to all the books currently out in this series, I’m going to have to start reading Orlando Sanchez’s other books!
I really enjoy these books, they’re so much fun!
One (of the many) reasons I enjoy these books is that the female characters are really well written. Yes, they tend to be strong (which I appreciate) but more importantly, you get the sense that they all have lives outside the main characters. I notice that that tends to be pretty rare in fantasy novels with male main characters. I’ve missed seeing Chi in the last couple of books but loved her mini-series.
Now that I’ve read (or listened) to all the books currently out in this series, I’m going to have to start reading Orlando Sanchez’s other books!
December 7, 2020
OHMYGOSH!!! this book is SO INCREDIBLE!! It was an adventure from cover to cover. The dialogue is as always AMAZING, JAW DROPPING, FUNNY, WITTY, and MOVING, in a nutshell, the best of Sanchez!! The book moves along at a heart racing pace that had me white knuckling my poor Kindle. The characters are ALL so realistic, most I'd LOVE to meet on the street, invite home, or be terrified of. OH, the ending! was so good with a glimpse of the next book that has me as always WANTING IT NOW.
December 7, 2020
What a fantastic follow-up to the previous instalment of this series and a real rollercoaster ride from beginning to end. Not quite such a cliffhanger as the last book, but this one certainly leaves you with so many questions and I can hardly wait for the next one. I love the character development in this episode, some role reversal, and the snarkfest between Simon and Jessikah... and everyone else is well up to standard ;p. Peaches is in his usual good form. As for Monty... well, you’ll just have to buy it to see! Not to be read as a stand-alone. Love it!
January 14, 2021
Loved this one!!!
I have really liked all the Monty and Simon stories but this one really got into back story. We finally get more of Simon and a brief glimpse of his back story. This one took a few turns I didn't expect but it all made sense by the end. Sorry to tell you that you need to really have read the others especially the last one before trying this one. It really takes everything we've learned about these two to really get the most from this story. And it's a great story!!!
I have really liked all the Monty and Simon stories but this one really got into back story. We finally get more of Simon and a brief glimpse of his back story. This one took a few turns I didn't expect but it all made sense by the end. Sorry to tell you that you need to really have read the others especially the last one before trying this one. It really takes everything we've learned about these two to really get the most from this story. And it's a great story!!!
November 21, 2025
Awsome
I loved that. great battle between Dex and and Simon. Dex just shredded him and in such a funny way. Forgive me for still believing in good VS bad. I still do. I loved that sort of battle or teaching moment. It was great. That is American values. I still believe. We must fight for it. You can help. Fight to preserve our country with the tools you have, great writing and humor. They are powerful tools. We are Americans we still have honor and integrity love your books they have real value. A teaching moment
I loved that. great battle between Dex and and Simon. Dex just shredded him and in such a funny way. Forgive me for still believing in good VS bad. I still do. I loved that sort of battle or teaching moment. It was great. That is American values. I still believe. We must fight for it. You can help. Fight to preserve our country with the tools you have, great writing and humor. They are powerful tools. We are Americans we still have honor and integrity love your books they have real value. A teaching moment
December 17, 2020
The perfect palate cleanser
Another great story in the M&S world. With these books I feel aligned with Peaches' love of sausages, finish one and you just want another. The new character Jesikah finds an ally in Strong and with me. On what side of luck it is probably up in the air. The one thing I love about Orlando's stories is they allow me to switch gears between other authors and worlds almost like coming back home after spending too much time on the road.
Another great story in the M&S world. With these books I feel aligned with Peaches' love of sausages, finish one and you just want another. The new character Jesikah finds an ally in Strong and with me. On what side of luck it is probably up in the air. The one thing I love about Orlando's stories is they allow me to switch gears between other authors and worlds almost like coming back home after spending too much time on the road.
December 19, 2020
Yes! They are back!
Been waiting patiently for this book and it didn't disappoint. From new characters to old alies and family this book had it all. This ride was none stop and everything you expect from Montague and strong. We didnt hear alot from Monty as he goes through some stuff but Strong was there 8n all his sarcastic glory! Loved every minute of it and can't wait for the next book!
Been waiting patiently for this book and it didn't disappoint. From new characters to old alies and family this book had it all. This ride was none stop and everything you expect from Montague and strong. We didnt hear alot from Monty as he goes through some stuff but Strong was there 8n all his sarcastic glory! Loved every minute of it and can't wait for the next book!
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