READER REVIEWS

WOW!!!  Well….let me start by saying, I’m not a “book person”….reader, per se, but after reading Treasure atop the Mountain, I’ll have to say, I may have changed my mind!  I’ve only read one other book, “The Notebook” and a friend suggested I read this book that she’d recently read. I found myself not wanting to stop reading this novel, just like I did with that one.  I laughed and cried…it was such a moving novel. I found myself “lost in the moment” as I read chapter after chapter. Gerri Smith

I am not usually one to read a book that is not set in present day, but man this was a good book. The plot is one that could be placed in the present day. I picked this up a couple times in the beginning when I had some time here and there, and then I couldn't put it down. I am in love with these characters and I relate to them all in different ways. Gene really reminded me of my Grandfather and he was probably my favorite character. I also now want to own my own ice cream shop. I highly recommend reading this book. Katie Norman

Thank you for creating strong characters without chapters of sex. Thank you for many details, and also including locations that are real add to the story. While fiction isn't something I frequently read; I certainly would like to know when the second book is available. Topics that are real with true love strong enough to care for one another unconditionally is refreshing. Thank you! Angela Buckles

A sweet coming-of-age story, Treasure atop the Mountain sucked me in within the first few pages. It was easy to become immersed in the small-town culture and the backgrounds of the characters. Emotionally deep enough for an adult audience, the characters and subject matter are also completely appropriate for a younger audience, lending itself to broad appeal. I’m excited to read what comes next! Robin Cox

Treasure Atop the Mountain is an engaging, heartwarming story about loss and love during a simpler time. I found myself pulled in to the characters' imperfect lives and wanting them to find the missing pieces that would make them complete. The unexpected revelations at the conclusion will make you close the book with a smile! Laura Briggs

Treasure Atop the Mountain is a sweet faith filled story about resilience and fighting adversity. Together it knits a love story and the love from a community for each other. It captures the tender hearts of two people dealing with their painful past. I quickly fell in love with Kage and Gracie's characters. Both characters have personal struggles and carry the burdens of past experiences. That, in the end, might drive them apart. They fight their fears to build a future together. I loved how the author expressed the relationship between Gracie and her grandparents. What a powerful example of prayer, a lasting legacy worth more than silver or gold. Treasure Atop the Mountain represents beautifully how hope and healing can grow from our deepest wounds. With God all things are possible.  Allison Duff

A beautiful story of overcoming and displaying how God can raise good things from the ashes of our lives. The final “Thought from the Author” was a powerful finishing touch. Can’t wait for the sequel! Mary Hammerstone

Although the setting is a simpler time and a simple place, the story and the emotions are timeless. It is a beautiful story.  The characters are very real. It is easy to care about them.  It's about the deep pain felt when love is violated by tragedy and loss.  Sometimes the pain I felt when reading it was heart wrenching but then the joy brought tears. It is a story of love, yet it’s not a typical love story.  It's about the kind of love you feel for your children, your grandparents, and your lover.  I believe this book will reward you if you choose to read it. Jason Hines

I loved the ending! I always love a book with a good ending. I felt like the characters could be real people. I would consider this book very comparable to many of the published books I’ve read. I can also visualize it as a movie! Tonja Duggins

I loved reading about Gracie and Kage and their story. I have drawn on every emotion and found myself lost in their lives. Since reading it, its message has lifted me. I started marking favorite lines, paragraph and clever wording but there were too many. Virginia Ransdell

I thought the book was fantastic! I am not a huge reader, but I would recommend this to my friends and family after the first and even the second time I read it! After the first few chapters, I was hooked. For me it ranks right up there with someone like Nicholas Sparks and David Baldacci. Kristen Lester

The tale of Gracie and Kage hugged my heart with its simplicity and true love. The author of Treasure Atop the Mountain writes a compelling and on occasion a wryly humorous novel. Not only does the reader become familiar with the characters but also the reader can relate to the intricacies of their world. Gail Abney

This masterfully crafted story weaves a strong thread of hope amidst the tale of abandonment, loss and suffering.  You will find facets of yourself and your community in the endearing characters, and enjoy the immersive experience of Ridgewood.  This is a book you will definitely lend out to friends of any age, but you’ll expect them to return it to you!  What a pleasure to read a work that is real without having to be raunchy.  I look forward to Matthews’ next book! (not related) Stephanie Matthews

Loved Treasure atop the Mountain. Page turner; couldn’t get enough of the wonderful characters. Tonya, you are a gifted writer. And thinker!!! Anne Murray

Gracie's story is one of acceptance and healing that takes years and trust in God. Life wasn't easy for Gracie and my heart went out to her and I grieved with her many times during this book. I was glad when Kage started noticing her, though their times together were not always the best for Gracie. This is my first book by Tonya L. Matthews, and I thoroughly enjoyed her writing style and getting to know her characters and their devotion to their town. I think the hidden treasure rumor added a lot of fun and enjoyment to the story. There are some twists and turns that threw me off track and kept me reading to see what was going to happen next. Matthews does an excellent job of keeping her readers entertained enough to want to finish the book. With so much going on in the story, I wondered about how it would end, but the author weaves it all together beautifully. Joy Hannabass