“Deeply felt…the feisty female protagonists do their real-life foremothers proud.”
—Publishers Weekly
“… A simultaneous examination of women’s rights, coal mining, prohibition, and Appalachian life, make this a fantastic choice for historical fiction fans.”
—Library Journal (Starred Review)
“An engaging debut… Vivid historical details, an intriguing mystery, and strong female characters.”
—Kirkus Reviews
“Beautifully plotted and filled with believable characters”
—AP News
“This amazing, thoroughly researched historical novel by debut author Jess Montgomery shows how love, determination, and courage can overcome bitterness, deceit, and violence.”
—New York Journal of Books
“Skilled storyteller Montgomery takes up the issue of racial prejudice as it existed in that place and time in this historical mystery that shines with its strong and appealing female characters.”
—Booklist
“The exploration of emotional hollowness, its origins and expressions, adds layers to this story. Montgomery has written another suspenseful mystery full of atmosphere and surprising historical details.”
—Criminal Element
“Beautifully written, poetic, and full of fascinating historical detail…”
—Crimereads
“Remarkable…[Montgomery’s] writing is brisk, yet it lingers long enough to indulge readers with beautiful prose along the way.”
—BookPage
“Women’s and workers’ rights, Prohibition, and a murder mystery come together beautifully…The book is impossible to put down or forget.”
—Mystery Scene
“The Widows is a gripping, beautifully written novel…”
—Hallie Ephron, New York Times bestselling author of You’ll Never Know, Dear
“A rich, empowering, and satisfying read.”
—Jessica Strawser, author of Not That I Could Tell