A Genuine Taste of the Mountains: It’s a well-respected maxim in literature that you should write what you know, and in the case of Catbird Winter, Monte Hill’s debut novel set in 1916 Western North Carolina, it’s clear that Hill knows her subject. The people, the flora and fauna, the folklore, the history and the culture of Hickory Nut Gorge, where the story is set, all come to brilliant life in Hill’s work. She paints a detailed and vibrant picture of the area as it must have been a century ago, before tourism and technology transformed it.

Donna Frelick, Author.

I found this novel to be totally fascinating. It took me to another time and place. The characters were so well developed that I felt like I knew them. I loved all the descriptions of the flora and topography which added to making the novel seem real. I could picture the characters and place in my mind’s eye as if it were a movie. I think that it could be made into a great film and I would look forward to seeing it. Once I got into it I couldn’t put it down.

Don B.

Set in the Appalachian mountains, the story accurately depicts the rich history of the region in vivid detail. Characters and plot are well developed, and the plot flows so feverishly that I could not put it down until it was finished. Good thing I had time off or I may have had to call out from work to finish! It is a definite must read. You will feel like you are nestled in the mountains of western North Carolina in the early 1900s.

Janice B.

Catbird Winter uses the setting of rural NC during WWI to explore the relationships, prejudices and challenges of this era. Through rich characters, Hill allows the reader to immerse themselves in this bygone era in a unique setting. I loved the historical information and family stories that formed this story. I can’t wait for more!

Patricia R.