The Echoes

A Novel

The Echoes

Ever since the publication of her first novel, I have looked forward to each yearly entry in this historical mystery series.

The books that Ms. Montgomery writes follow a number of characters, many of whom are women of principle living in a town where they are continually challenged. Lily became Sheriff after the death of her husband. She has subsequently faced many difficult situations. Lily’s friend Marvena has a strong presence on the page as well as does Hildy. These are characters for whom readers will care. Each novel seems to bind them more closely together. In this entry, there is a new person in Esme. Readers will learn how she is connected to Lily and will hope that she is able to survive her own challenges.

At the same time, there is a local situation calling for Lily’s skills in investigation. An amusement park opening that should be fun leads to complex doings that span generations.

I both read and listened to this one. The narrator does a good job of telling this story. She speaks so clearly that readers are easily able to follow and become involved with the characters and plot. I had read the other books so it was a treat to listen and hear the voices of characters who had previously existed in my mind.

The books in this series are best read in order. They can be both bleak and life affirming. These are small town stories that are anything but cozies. I recommend them all.

Many thanks to NetGalley, St. Martin’s Press, and Macmillan audio. All opinions are my own.

Pub Date 29 Mar 2022