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Energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transformed.

Tristan Montague has had his ability to cast magic broken.

When his confrontation with Edith and Verity leave him unable to access his magic, he must seek out another technique to regain his access.

He must learn the Restoring Palm.

Now, together with Simon and the help of a dark mage, they must seek out someone who knows the technique and is willing to teach it to Tristan.

They must find the Caretaker.

Together they must evade Verity, who believes Tristan and Simon are going dark.

To Verity, the only solution to darkness is erasure and elimination—a solution they intend to unleash before Tristan can restore his magic.

270 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 28, 2022

271 people are currently reading
93 people want to read

About the author

Orlando A. Sanchez

104 books590 followers
Orlando 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.

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5 stars
640 (70%)
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222 (24%)
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35 (3%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
Profile Image for ShannaBanana✨.
548 reviews40 followers
January 17, 2023
I need the next book now! Monty must be protected at all costs. That ending was intense and leaves me wanting so much more. There is no stopping the terrible trio that I love oh so much.
Profile Image for Deborah.
3,841 reviews496 followers
January 2, 2023
4.5*

And we’re back.
This book was fabulous and I’m thrilled. I didn’t like the previous one and I wondered if the series had run it’s course for me. But obviously not.

This is the magnificent three (aka Terrible Trio) at their very best. Fighting for their lives. And it’s not just Simon, Tristan and the Mighty Peaches. We have Dex, Mo and Grey.
And I couldn’t be happier. Bring on the next book asap.
Profile Image for Larry Tushman.
220 reviews4 followers
December 31, 2022
Casting the storm blood and interrupting palm had dire repercussions. Not only has Verity redoubled efforts to end the Renovation Trio, but also Monty has been cut off from his mage power, forcing him to resort to the use of a focus and resemblance to a particular W word he finds offensive. In an attempt to reverse the latter in order to address the former, Dex recovers a dark exile to assist the hunt for knowledge of the restoring palm. But not all is as it seems.
They seek truth in the usual Montague & Strong manner, meaning via rushing into danger, dancing with death, embracing snark, refurbishing a building or two, high velocity auto maneuvering, and a great cameo. All leading to equal parts answers and showdown in true M&S fashion that is a blast to behold.
Profile Image for Shawnie Nicole.
1,259 reviews13 followers
June 17, 2023
whew

This was a nice change of pace… and what I mean by that is that there wasn’t as much going on as there usually is. This book seemed more cut and dry, black and white. It was to the point and you could very well see what was going to happen as you read. Not a bad thing, at all. I throughly enjoyed this.
Profile Image for M.
1,576 reviews
January 13, 2023
Monty lost his magic? Is he a mere wizard now? How humiliating. OTOH, less destruction is a welcome change.

Note: this is not a stand-alone novel.

Simon and the Mighty Peaches must help Monty regain his ability to access his magic. More, Monty has to use a wizard’s staff—no matter that it was created by Aria, the most powerful of wordweavers. A mage is weapon, so what’s a mage who needs a staff? A wizard-mage hybrid—a “wizage,” suggests Simon.

Then, the Morrígan, the Goddess of Death, manifests before S&M. She’s dressed in “darkness and fear,” but fortunately she’s not in battle crow aspect, Badb Catha. But . . . The Morrígan was requested to fetch them by her partner, Dexter Montague—the beyond-archmage powerful uncle to Monty. The Chooser of the Slain, would be their escort, because Dex was too angry to be in their presence. Wow. Author Orlando Sanchez is off and is he on a tear!

Besides Dex, there are agents of Verity and the High Tribunal, plus a hereto unknown, evil great-uncle to Monty. Albert Montague is a prisoner of the Living Library, which means Ziller appears! A certain lizard—possibly a dragon—is mentioned, but a surprise (!) guest character appears. Simon meets him in an underground garage: “I like the whole under-the-museum thing you have going on here. Very Dark Knight of you. Where do your park the Beast?”
No, the dark mage didn’t dust Simon.
221 reviews2 followers
January 2, 2023
WOW!! What an incredible adventure!!! OhMyGosh!!! I am very limited on words b/c this book BLEW MY MIND!!! here's a list of words that do come to mind though.

TOTALLY AWESOME!!!
Amazing characters, OOOO and one of my favorites is in this one. Got more info. on him and it's darn good!! another book on HIM would be FABULOUS.
THE DIALOGUE!!! Funny, hilarious, scary, awesome as always.
This book really shows the close bond between the characters both main characters and the others in the story.
OOO a new character shows up with all kinds of mysticism, magic--if you can call what he does magic, I'm thinking it's BEYOND magic. LOVED this character!! AND what he is/does/everything!! soooo clever of the author to just create this character and HIS world . It's amazing what this author can do!!!
All the action and technical words on weapons, fight scenes, cars, clothes, etc. are just another aspect of this book that is incredible--and the series for that matter. BUT, the author delves deep DEEP into philosophy/psychology/LIFE in general and touches your soul with profound quotes by ancient philosophers and his OWN wisdom. I have so many passages highlighted for inspiration for so many situations. He just weaves these philosophical/life gems in seamlessly with the Urban FANTASY adventure that is this book and series.
'
To summarize:::: OMG TOTALLY AWESOMELY AMAZING BOOK!!!!
It's 3 am I don't do punctuation on a GOOD Day.

9 reviews
May 21, 2024
The Thrills Don't Stop!!!

Another ridiculously good time from Orlando Sanchez. Monty is probably my favorite character. I've always loved the mage/wizard/sorcerer in stories. I guess I'm a suckered for a brooding figure with mind-numbing powers and a good heart.

Monty is doing some real growing and I love to see it. I'm scared for him. The path he's walking is treacherous and it would take nothing for him to slip into darkness. But, like Simon, I believe in him. He's a good mage and a better man.

Speaking of Simon, I am loving his growth as well! I can see him starting to accept what his life is now. He's never been dumb but now he's starting to GET it. Once he's fully read in he's going to be a problem for everything that goes bump in the night. Him, Monty and the Mighty Peaches are not to be trifled with!

Mr. Sanchez is making it hard for me to put these books down! Which is a problem because what happens when I catch up?? Oh, well, that's a problem for future me. On to the next!
Profile Image for Tami.
209 reviews5 followers
December 30, 2022
WOW!!! Monty and Simon are saddled with Uncle Albert, a not cool relation, to try and remain Monty's link to his magic. Uncle Albert has been sentenced to several hundred years in Zliller's Living Library due to his becoming a black Mage and taking on and out several of the established good guys. Now, Dex has requested and negotiated time off for his assistance in getting what Monty needs to get his magic back. Meanwhile, Monty and Simon must deal with an agency that has deemed that they are a "clear and present danger" and therefore must be taken out of the equation. All hands are on deck in this latest thrill ride! Does Monty get back his Magic? Does Peaches get more meat? Can Simon keep Monty from going to the dark side? And what happens with the crazy uncle enlisted to help with plans of his own? Read it to find out!
Profile Image for Justjeanette.
167 reviews4 followers
December 31, 2022
This series just keeps getting better.

I was thinking about "What exactly it was that makes Broken Magic stand out?" For me, it's the fact I could probably talk for 2-3 hours on the underlying discussion of what it means to be dark, or light.
Broken magic has destruction taking a back seat, for a change, as we delve a little more into the philosophy of darkness.
One of my very long-term favourite book series is the Time Master Series by Louise Cooper: this series is where I identified with the discussion of good versus evil through the lense of Chaos versus Order. The engagement of my interest is reawakened in the M&S series with Broken Magic hitting all the right notes.
Go, read, it's amazing.
Profile Image for Jolene Tangherlini.
15 reviews
January 11, 2023
Excellent addition to the series

No spoilers here. I read it, I thought it was great, can't wait for the next book!

I do wish that every once in a while we would get to see a little of the peaceful side of their lives, just enough to really reinforce why they go through everything they do - maybe Tristan and Roxanne on a date, Simon and Chi just together in the same room even, a party or gathering where you get to see them enjoying life. Just a little bit, then back to the crazy destruction they are always causing!!

The story lines continue to surprise me and interest me, and the banter between Tristan and Simon (and Simon and everyone else) is always entertaining. The bits of hell hound wisdom are always appreciated and make me smile.

Can't wait for the next book!
579 reviews32 followers
December 29, 2022
As always when you're with Monty, Simon, and Peaches be prepared for the ride to be fast and dangerous.
Monty needs to find a way to reverse the interrupting Plam to gain back access to his magic. What Simon and Monty don't expect is the person Dex sends to help them. This story has dangerous enemies, help from a source you might not expect, but will enjoy seeing again, and possibly a new acquaintance they will see more of in the future.
When I read a Montague & Strong agency book it feels like visiting old friends. I enjoy the snark and the sense of family between these characters. I also like getting to see the new situations they get themselves into and hopefully out of.
Profile Image for Diane.
621 reviews4 followers
January 3, 2023
Verity is closing in and trying to eliminate Monty, Simon, and Peaches. Monty's magic is 'broken', and with the constant threat of someone trying to take out Simon, as the Marked of Kali, our intrepid trio are desperate to find a source of a certain type of ancient knowledge who can help Monty recover. Help comes from an unexpected source - but can it be trusted?

Read on to find out if you like fast-paced urban fantasy with likeable characters, a riveting story, and terrific, often humorous, dialog. Better yet, start with the first book in the series, 'Tombyards and Butterflies' to get the backstory on the characters. It's on KU and well worth reading.
Profile Image for Renee Minor-Ramage.
140 reviews
January 12, 2023
Broken Magic delivers!

We've all been worried about how Monty and Simon were dealing with what's happened to them in the last several stories. Some of that gets to the fore front in this book. There's also many serious philosophical questions in this one. Some of these questions apply to all of us. We all have holes in us from circumstances in real life. It's how we deal with them that makes us who we are. Would Monty and Simon ever go truly dark? I personally can't imagine that ever happening. They've had opportunities to go there and never do. I can't wait for the next book, as crazy as we can be waiting for book 19!
679 reviews13 followers
December 30, 2022
Amazing Story!

Broken Magic by Orlando Sanchez is amazing. So many references. So many things to think about.
Even one of the opening quotes reminds me of Kintsugi. And the conversations in regard to light vs dark and the self-sabotage of ‘can’t’ are thought provoking.
Hard as it may be to think it, this book is the best so far, and that is saying something because the earlier books are great.
This story has everything. A great plot! Great characters! Non-stop action.
This book is a ‘Must-Read’!
Profile Image for Craig Zimick.
40 reviews3 followers
December 31, 2022
There is No Spoon

While the title of my review gives you the basics of the plot, do yourself a favor and read this series and then put them on the to be read again pile… As Orlando gets further along with this world (and all of the tangential stories) his storytelling is creating bigger and better mind movies that flow from the pages to the silver screen in your brain, except you can hear the orchestral accompaniment and smell the smoke from the explosions… Mark My Words, this author is worthy of the big awards, and expect to see film adaptions… SOON™️
Profile Image for Gail.
618 reviews1 follower
January 8, 2023
Oh boy, these books just keep getting better!

We find our trio with Tristan without his power, well so he thinks, and using his Wizard staff 😂😂😂

This book doesn't have the destruction the Boys usually have to hand out to stay alive.

But the mental toll on them is immense.

To help Tristan over come his 'block' they need the help of a family member, who went Dark and liked it, Albert.

Will he help them or is he in it for himself??

Lovely to see Grey.

I like Stu 😁👍🏻

Can't wait for book 19 😮😮😮😁😁😁😁
Profile Image for Glen.
60 reviews
January 8, 2023
Good ending, following another great story!

Orlando Sanchez has created a unique and wonderful trio in "Montague & Strong" & Peaches. I've liked them from the first time I encountered them, and like them more with each book. I'm now back in "impatiently awaiting" mode for the next book. No spoilers, but lots of action - and a bit of unexpected "didn't happen" - and, as I said in the title here,a good ending. "Meat is life" - but Deathwish coffee helps make life more worthwhile and productive!
3 reviews
January 18, 2023
Adore!

I love these books so much! The worlds and their intersections are amazing and I love your attention to detail. These books exemplify what books should be with the depths of the characters and the stories themselves. My only complaint (which is more of a compliment really, a complimaint maybe. Oh , that’s bad, lol) is that I want more. More adventures, more Michiko and more Frank - I want a Frank and Simon showdown so bad!! Thank you for writing these and giving a little escape from a world that can be straight nuts sometimes.
1 review
April 23, 2023
Excellent Read!!!!

This entire series and its various characters fleshed out in its related books are so much fun to read. I really want to more about the10. We've barely scratched the surface of that group. Simon's overall power is steadily growing, coming from all sorts of directions along the way, and we still don't know why he was given Ebonsoul, or what effect his new powers will have on it. It hasn't been mentioned much, but I still think the dragons blood will play a factor in some way,as this progression continues. Can't wait for the next book!!!! Meat is Life!!!
107 reviews1 follower
October 16, 2023
YOU FORGE YOUR OWN FAMILY, SOMETIMES THRU FIRE AND FURY.

Simon, the hothead quick-draw and Monty , the level-headed, pragmatic mage. Back to back, with the Sprawl-meister, M&S head into the expanding world of magic. There is less collateral damage ,but personal damage strengths guys bond.
The story is fast paced, but our guys don't wait for anything. They foresee what's coming, and there are enough clues that the reader can to. The genius is how the heck are they going to get out of this one?
READ FAST!!
Profile Image for Todd.
2,226 reviews8 followers
January 5, 2023
Just as you say Orlando won't be able to top this one, he comes out with the next M&S book and sets a new standard.
After performing the "Storm Blood" ritual with Strong in the previous book leaves Monty without the ability to access his magic they go for help.
This help is a dark mage out on parole, but he's family. What could go wrong?
Another exciting installment in the Montague and Strong series
Profile Image for Richard.
191 reviews
January 8, 2023
Sooo Good

Book 18 of Montague & Strong is a slight respite from usual Monty and Strong destructive running and fighting stories. Don’t worry, there is plenty of action. And, an old “friend” Grey surfaces, but is it to help or hinder our heros? Monty must accept help form someone in his family. someone he does not want hep for. Dex, sends them on a quest to texts both Monty and his Family member. Will they both pass the test.
Profile Image for Cat.
64 reviews2 followers
January 9, 2023
Grey ...that is all

Absolutely loved it , it's not dark/light .. it's the merging of the 2 to reach who you are & can be , Simon has come a long way , monty might be finally understanding humour ...we live in hope & Dex is just Dex ...loved it & bring on the next , these lads & peaches are nearly family after 18 books ...more please and oh Grey ...my absolute favourite & only Night Warden .
215 reviews
September 19, 2023
Too much talkie talk

Wow so predictable, about 85% of this book is just filler of mostly conversations. No real content honestly if you removed the needless chatter I think this book would be maybe 4 chapters at most. This book was mostly a waste of time. I am very grateful I have my Amazon Kindle subscription and didn't have to waste my time on these books. For real this is book 18 and no real direction, so much time spent as an old 80's sitcom rather than a story.
28 reviews
December 31, 2022
Best book yet

I can’t believe we are already on book 18! Peaches is growing up. Strong is starting to own his power and Monty has fully embraced what family means to him. This book was a real surprise on many levels. It is almost like a confluence of ley lines. All the little stray ends meet here and get ready for the next phase.
2,226 reviews4 followers
December 31, 2022
Energy just is

We are on the rollercoaster ride of a lifetime and much like Hecate, we are sometimes the pebble & sometimes the target. We scream down the road, all the while looking for the exit that will answer all our questions, only to discover we simply haven't been listening closely. What a long crazy ride it's been, good thing it's not over yet.
Profile Image for Cindy Deporter.
197 reviews1 follower
December 31, 2022
Monty and Simon are family and brothers but not by blood. Is Monty’s Magic broken or not? Simon is not convinced and the Night Warden gives Simon insight. Monty’s great Uncle Albert a banished dark mage is needed to help find a way to unlock the magic or will hie stay true to his nature? Questions answered and more created. Love the writing and the insight into life. Enjoy!
Profile Image for Enid Rodriguez.
42 reviews1 follower
December 31, 2022
Another great story!

Simon is learning, oh so much, so fast. But so is Tristan. No more black or white, good or evil, now it's the dance to learn balance. Everyone is learning their place and every definition is tested. Peaches even is growing and better at understanding things.
Meat is life!
And so is javambrosia!
26 reviews
January 4, 2023
The best one yet!

This one is the best in the series so far. It has it all, Peaches, Dex, Simon, Monty and Gray. This book shows a lot of growth for Tristan Montague. Sure he's a mage, a very classy gentleman with his, to quote Peaches, leaf water. But, we get to see Monty in a deeper way. Don't miss out. This is a must read!
27 reviews1 follower
January 12, 2023
The Case for the Case Files

... must include the fact that, after 18 volumes, I'm still looking forward to the next book. Sanchez has proven himself a master of creating and combining varied aspects of a supernatural culture with roots spanning ancient mythology through current cultural icons. More, please!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews

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