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The Song of Sourwood Mountain
While the century began with such promise, it is 1910 when Mira Dean's hopes of being a wife and mother are dashed to pieces. Her fiancé dead from tuberculosis, Mira resigns herself to being a spinster schoolteacher--until Gordon Covington shows up. No longer the boy she knew from school, Gordon is now a preacher who is full of surprises. First, he asks Mira to come to Sourwood in eastern Kentucky to teach at his mission school. Second, he asks her to marry him. Just like that. And all at once the doors that had seemed firmly shut begin to open, just a crack. With much trepidation, Mira steps out in faith into a life she never imagined, in a place filled with its own special challenges, to serve a people who will end up becoming the family she always dreamed of. From the pen of bestselling author Ann H. Gabhart comes a heartwarming story of the unexpected blessings that can come when we dare to follow the Lord's leading.
368 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 2024
46 people are currently reading
5170 people want to read
About the author
Ann H. Gabhart
49 books1,059 followersAnn H. Gabhart grew up on a farm in Kentucky. At the age of ten, she started dreaming of writing stories others would want to read. That dream has come true as she's published over thirty-five novels. She and her husband have three children married to three beautiful in-law children who have gifted her nine grandchildren. She still lives on a farm not far from where she grew up. She loves playing with her grandkids, walking with her dogs, reading, and, of course, writing. Her Shaker books, set in her fictional Shaker village of Harmony Hill in the 1800's, are popular with readers. The Outsider was a Christian Fiction Book Award Finalist in 2009. Her Heart of Hollyhill books are Small Town, America books set in the 1960's. Angel Sister, a Rosey Corner book set during the Great Depression, was a best-seller and was followed up by two more stories about the Merritt sisters. She keeps her stories in Kentucky and has enjoyed going to the Kentucky Appalachian Mountains for some stories including These Healing Hills and Along a Storied Trail. And if you like mysteries, you can try her Hidden Springs Mysteries published under the author name, A.H. Gabhart. Visit Ann's website http://annhgabhart.com to find out more. There you can sign up for her newsletter where she does giveaways several times a year.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 242 reviews
March 14, 2024
An audacious proposal!
New-to-me historical fiction romance author Ann H. Gabhart takes readers back in time to the Appalachian mountains and introduces us to her main character, Mira Dean, who is suffering from a broken heart.
Five years ago Mira lost her fiance to tuberculosis and has allowed her dreams of marriage and children to die along with him. She plods along in a mundane life as a school teacher in Louisville, Kentucky and is content with her lot. When a childhood friend, missionary Gordon Covington, passes through town he proposes a marriage of convenience to Mira and asks her to consider accompanying him to Sourwood to teach the hill children. Indignantly, she refuses.
Suddenly, things go wrong in her life; she loses her apartment and her job. It forces Mira to reconsider her options. Perhaps she was too hasty in rejecting Gordon.
Gabhart’s novel challenged me to see things from a different perspective. Sometimes when things don’t go our way, we get negative. Gabhart wants readers to consider that perhaps the challenges are meant to be in our journey and are part of a bigger picture. I loved seeing Mira’s relationship develop and see that her dreams are within reach, just not in the way she had imagined them. It was good to be reminded of the need for courage in unsettling experiences. Mira’s courage enabled her to agree to follow Gordon and accept his strange request. There’s a spiritual lesson in that for Christians. I welcomed the opportunity to relinquish control; not easy for this control freak! I enjoyed the juxtaposition that became obvious when reading about the harsh existence of mountain life and the warm, welcoming hill folk. I appreciated this spectacular novel that reminded me of God’s timing and plan.
This sweet romance and marriage of convenience is one Christian romance readers will want on their TBR list. Watch for the references to bluebirds!
I was gifted this copy by Revell and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
New-to-me historical fiction romance author Ann H. Gabhart takes readers back in time to the Appalachian mountains and introduces us to her main character, Mira Dean, who is suffering from a broken heart.
Five years ago Mira lost her fiance to tuberculosis and has allowed her dreams of marriage and children to die along with him. She plods along in a mundane life as a school teacher in Louisville, Kentucky and is content with her lot. When a childhood friend, missionary Gordon Covington, passes through town he proposes a marriage of convenience to Mira and asks her to consider accompanying him to Sourwood to teach the hill children. Indignantly, she refuses.
Suddenly, things go wrong in her life; she loses her apartment and her job. It forces Mira to reconsider her options. Perhaps she was too hasty in rejecting Gordon.
Gabhart’s novel challenged me to see things from a different perspective. Sometimes when things don’t go our way, we get negative. Gabhart wants readers to consider that perhaps the challenges are meant to be in our journey and are part of a bigger picture. I loved seeing Mira’s relationship develop and see that her dreams are within reach, just not in the way she had imagined them. It was good to be reminded of the need for courage in unsettling experiences. Mira’s courage enabled her to agree to follow Gordon and accept his strange request. There’s a spiritual lesson in that for Christians. I welcomed the opportunity to relinquish control; not easy for this control freak! I enjoyed the juxtaposition that became obvious when reading about the harsh existence of mountain life and the warm, welcoming hill folk. I appreciated this spectacular novel that reminded me of God’s timing and plan.
This sweet romance and marriage of convenience is one Christian romance readers will want on their TBR list. Watch for the references to bluebirds!
I was gifted this copy by Revell and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
January 12, 2025
I’ve always enjoyed reading historical romance/fiction and The Song of Sourwood Mountain didn’t disappoint this reader. I thought the book was very realistic and the Author made me feel as though I’d gone back in time and was there with the characters in 1910. I liked that the author blended good times and bad times in this book. It was entertaining, inspirational,unpredictable, and a page turner. The people who lived on Sourwood mountain were loyal to one another and though they were poor they lived with what God gave them.
This book has three main characters. Gordon Covington who was the preacher at the church in Sourwood Mountain. Mira Dean who was a teacher in Louisville Kentucky. Ada June Baker who was a 10 year old homeless orphan on Sourwood Mountain. All other characters are secondary but play an important role in this story. When Mira Dean’s world in Louisville falls apart she wonders if God has another plan for her. Preacher Covington makes her an offer that she isn’t sure she wants to except. Ada June gets by the best she can by helping people that live on the mountain but no one cares enough to offer her a home . God has a plan for all three of them. Find out what He has in mind for them when you read this heartwarming book.
I recommend this book to readers of historical and inspirational fiction. This book is a standalone . It is scheduled to be released on 5/7/24.
I voluntarily read an advanced reader’s copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed here in this review are my own.
#TheSongofSourwoodMountain #NetGalley
This book has three main characters. Gordon Covington who was the preacher at the church in Sourwood Mountain. Mira Dean who was a teacher in Louisville Kentucky. Ada June Baker who was a 10 year old homeless orphan on Sourwood Mountain. All other characters are secondary but play an important role in this story. When Mira Dean’s world in Louisville falls apart she wonders if God has another plan for her. Preacher Covington makes her an offer that she isn’t sure she wants to except. Ada June gets by the best she can by helping people that live on the mountain but no one cares enough to offer her a home . God has a plan for all three of them. Find out what He has in mind for them when you read this heartwarming book.
I recommend this book to readers of historical and inspirational fiction. This book is a standalone . It is scheduled to be released on 5/7/24.
I voluntarily read an advanced reader’s copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed here in this review are my own.
#TheSongofSourwoodMountain #NetGalley
April 14, 2024
Listen closely, and you'll hear the gentle melody of The Song of Sourwood Mountain, a captivating tale that resonates with the spirit of Appalachia. This 5+ star book, in my opinion, is a priceless treasure, weaving together the threads of faith, love, and the rugged beauty of the mountains.
This heartwarming and sometimes heart-wrenching story gripped me, each page a melody echoing throughout the hollows of my heart. Ann H. Gabhart has a gift for crafting characters who feel like old friends, their lives intricately woven into the very fabric of the mountains they call home.
In the heart of these ancient hills, we meet Mira Dean, a woman faced with an unexpected proposal from Gordon Covington, a preacher with a vision for a mission school in the mountains. At first, Gordon's persistence may seem overbearing, but as we explore the depths into his character, we see a man led by faith, trusting in God's plan.
The Appalachian setting comes alive with every word, painting a vivid picture of the rugged beauty and the resilient spirit of the people who call it home. As Mira and Gordon navigate the twists and turns of their new life together, we see their love story unfold with genuine tenderness, mirroring the sweet melody of a bluebird's song.
But it's not just Mira and Gordon who steal the show. Ada June and her loyal four-legged companion, Bo, capture our hearts with their courage and resilience in the face of soul-shaking adversity. Their presence in Mira and Gordon's lives adds exquisite, eternal depth and warmth to the story, reminding us of the found family that can emerge in unexpected places.
Throughout the novel, the theme of trusting in Almighty God and His plan shines brightly. I absolutely loved the Christian faith content! Here is a quote that I have memorized: “Fear has a way of paralyzing us, coloring our thoughts, making us want to believe we know more than God.”
Each character's journey, filled with joys and sorrows alike, unfolds in harmony with the Appalachian landscape, creating a symphony of faith, hope, trust, and love.
As I read, I found myself savoring every sentence, not wanting the book to end yet unable to resist the pull of the next chapter. Gabhart's masterful storytelling drew me into a world where the bluebird's melody intertwined with the whispers of the mountains.
The Song of Sourwood Mountain continues to linger in my heart long, leaving me with a deeper appreciation for the symphony of life's joys and sorrows.
For anyone seeking a soul-stirring journey through the heart of Appalachia, The Song of Sourwood Mountain is an absolute must-read. It's a bluebird's melody that will echo in your heart, reminding you of the beauty and resilience found in the heart of the mountains.
I received a digital copy of The Song of Sourwood Mountain from Revell. I am not required to write a positive review in any way or for any reason. My honest and unbiased opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing style, the pacing, and the story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.
This heartwarming and sometimes heart-wrenching story gripped me, each page a melody echoing throughout the hollows of my heart. Ann H. Gabhart has a gift for crafting characters who feel like old friends, their lives intricately woven into the very fabric of the mountains they call home.
In the heart of these ancient hills, we meet Mira Dean, a woman faced with an unexpected proposal from Gordon Covington, a preacher with a vision for a mission school in the mountains. At first, Gordon's persistence may seem overbearing, but as we explore the depths into his character, we see a man led by faith, trusting in God's plan.
The Appalachian setting comes alive with every word, painting a vivid picture of the rugged beauty and the resilient spirit of the people who call it home. As Mira and Gordon navigate the twists and turns of their new life together, we see their love story unfold with genuine tenderness, mirroring the sweet melody of a bluebird's song.
But it's not just Mira and Gordon who steal the show. Ada June and her loyal four-legged companion, Bo, capture our hearts with their courage and resilience in the face of soul-shaking adversity. Their presence in Mira and Gordon's lives adds exquisite, eternal depth and warmth to the story, reminding us of the found family that can emerge in unexpected places.
Throughout the novel, the theme of trusting in Almighty God and His plan shines brightly. I absolutely loved the Christian faith content! Here is a quote that I have memorized: “Fear has a way of paralyzing us, coloring our thoughts, making us want to believe we know more than God.”
Each character's journey, filled with joys and sorrows alike, unfolds in harmony with the Appalachian landscape, creating a symphony of faith, hope, trust, and love.
As I read, I found myself savoring every sentence, not wanting the book to end yet unable to resist the pull of the next chapter. Gabhart's masterful storytelling drew me into a world where the bluebird's melody intertwined with the whispers of the mountains.
The Song of Sourwood Mountain continues to linger in my heart long, leaving me with a deeper appreciation for the symphony of life's joys and sorrows.
For anyone seeking a soul-stirring journey through the heart of Appalachia, The Song of Sourwood Mountain is an absolute must-read. It's a bluebird's melody that will echo in your heart, reminding you of the beauty and resilience found in the heart of the mountains.
I received a digital copy of The Song of Sourwood Mountain from Revell. I am not required to write a positive review in any way or for any reason. My honest and unbiased opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing style, the pacing, and the story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.
May 26, 2024
Have you ever made a quick decision that could potentially be the best decision ever or disastrous? Mira Dean’s put in this position when an old schoolmate turned preacher offers her a teaching position in Sourwood, in the hollers of Appalachian Kentucky. Gordon Covington not only asks her to leave her home in Louisville and current teaching position, but asks for her hand in marriage. After grieving the loss of her deceased fiancé and parents, Mira never imagined her dream of a husband and family would come true, but, can she accept this rash proposal and travel to an unknown, very different community to become their teacher and a preacher’s wife?
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! I loved Mira. At first, she has no intention of accepting Gordon’s proposal, but with a little prodding from the spunky Miss Ophelia and after losing her job & home in one fell swoop, she’s willing to take it to the Lord and give it some thought. I admired her bravery and willingness to follow the Lord’s promptings. Gordon was such an enjoyable character too with his golden retriever personality. He had a crush on Mira when they were in school and still carries that attraction. I loved how he wanted to do everything he could to make her comfortable and take care of her.
I loved the people of Sourwood Mountain and the way the author captured their endearing personalities, customs, and speaking. Though considered a “brought-in flatlander” this tight knit community took Mira and “Preacher Gordon” into their hearts and offered them all they had. I especially loved ten year old Ada June and watching her flourish. There’s a bit of a mystery surrounding what happened to her ma. Ada June doesn’t speak and is a sort of wild child, that is until Mira takes her under her wing.
Along with Mira trying to fit in and learn how to help the people of Sourwood, there’s a beautiful marriage of convenience story that grows from friendship to love. Though Gordon falls first, I loved the way Mira had a positive, go with it attitude and was willing to give her marriage a real chance. They’re all in it together and I enjoyed seeing how they worked together to grow closer to each other while helping the people of Sourwood.
Highly recommend this beautiful, inspiring, gentle, endearing story to historical & Christian romance fans. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! I loved Mira. At first, she has no intention of accepting Gordon’s proposal, but with a little prodding from the spunky Miss Ophelia and after losing her job & home in one fell swoop, she’s willing to take it to the Lord and give it some thought. I admired her bravery and willingness to follow the Lord’s promptings. Gordon was such an enjoyable character too with his golden retriever personality. He had a crush on Mira when they were in school and still carries that attraction. I loved how he wanted to do everything he could to make her comfortable and take care of her.
I loved the people of Sourwood Mountain and the way the author captured their endearing personalities, customs, and speaking. Though considered a “brought-in flatlander” this tight knit community took Mira and “Preacher Gordon” into their hearts and offered them all they had. I especially loved ten year old Ada June and watching her flourish. There’s a bit of a mystery surrounding what happened to her ma. Ada June doesn’t speak and is a sort of wild child, that is until Mira takes her under her wing.
Along with Mira trying to fit in and learn how to help the people of Sourwood, there’s a beautiful marriage of convenience story that grows from friendship to love. Though Gordon falls first, I loved the way Mira had a positive, go with it attitude and was willing to give her marriage a real chance. They’re all in it together and I enjoyed seeing how they worked together to grow closer to each other while helping the people of Sourwood.
Highly recommend this beautiful, inspiring, gentle, endearing story to historical & Christian romance fans. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided.
May 17, 2024
“The Lord can speak in sundry ways.”
This sweet story follows a schoolteacher as she learns to trust the Lord and finds her bluebird of happiness in an unexpected place. It is a quaint, homey tale, with touching simplicity and heart.
It is lovely to read how God ties Mira, Gordon, and Ada June together with strands of gentle romance and loving family, amidst the ruggedly beautiful Appalachian setting. Every inhabitant of the mountains had such distinctive character, it was impossible not to be charmed by the place. I could almost envision picking wildflowers there myself.
It isn't terribly often that I find novels so saturated in reminders of God’s love. Nary a paragraph went by without some reassurance of His faithfulness or testament to the goodness of His plans.
If you like stories with heartfelt faith and clean marriage of convenience, this one might be for you 🪺🤍
Thank you so much to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this book! These are my honest thoughts.
This sweet story follows a schoolteacher as she learns to trust the Lord and finds her bluebird of happiness in an unexpected place. It is a quaint, homey tale, with touching simplicity and heart.
It is lovely to read how God ties Mira, Gordon, and Ada June together with strands of gentle romance and loving family, amidst the ruggedly beautiful Appalachian setting. Every inhabitant of the mountains had such distinctive character, it was impossible not to be charmed by the place. I could almost envision picking wildflowers there myself.
It isn't terribly often that I find novels so saturated in reminders of God’s love. Nary a paragraph went by without some reassurance of His faithfulness or testament to the goodness of His plans.
If you like stories with heartfelt faith and clean marriage of convenience, this one might be for you 🪺🤍
Thank you so much to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this book! These are my honest thoughts.
May 27, 2024
I've enjoyed reading many of the author's books over the years, but I do believe I have a new favorite.
The book is so realistic that I could have been watching a movie as I imagined all in my mind while reading this.
I absolutely love books taking place in Appalachia and the people represented there. The book just captured my heart and soul. A Christian book but not preachy or overbearing. The Appalachian people are special, considered slow and behind the times by some, they're not. They just have their own way of thinking and doing things passed down from generation to generation. They have their own way of speaking and are very wary of outsiders and you can't blame them. If outsiders come in they can change everything about the landscape of the area and make them just like everyone else. They enjoy living in the hollers, doing things their way and sticking amongst themselves. When a preacher man comes in with his new wife, they are wary of them both but the longer they are there the more assimilated they become. I really liked the character, Ada June a young half wild girl child living mainly in the forest after her mother's death. Preacher's wife, Mira has had so many trials in her life, from losing her intended fiancée to being made redundant at her teaching job but God made her a strong resilient woman and her new opportunity at life sees her shining as a preacher's wife while teaching at a mission school in rural Kentucky.
I loved this book so much and can't wait to see what the author has out next.
I was given a complimentary copy of the book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
The book is so realistic that I could have been watching a movie as I imagined all in my mind while reading this.
I absolutely love books taking place in Appalachia and the people represented there. The book just captured my heart and soul. A Christian book but not preachy or overbearing. The Appalachian people are special, considered slow and behind the times by some, they're not. They just have their own way of thinking and doing things passed down from generation to generation. They have their own way of speaking and are very wary of outsiders and you can't blame them. If outsiders come in they can change everything about the landscape of the area and make them just like everyone else. They enjoy living in the hollers, doing things their way and sticking amongst themselves. When a preacher man comes in with his new wife, they are wary of them both but the longer they are there the more assimilated they become. I really liked the character, Ada June a young half wild girl child living mainly in the forest after her mother's death. Preacher's wife, Mira has had so many trials in her life, from losing her intended fiancée to being made redundant at her teaching job but God made her a strong resilient woman and her new opportunity at life sees her shining as a preacher's wife while teaching at a mission school in rural Kentucky.
I loved this book so much and can't wait to see what the author has out next.
I was given a complimentary copy of the book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
May 10, 2024
When I have a book by Ann Gabhart, I don’t want to be bothered so I can read it and find out what happens next. I loved this novel just like the others. So many people to learn about their hearts hiding beneath the hurts that God is waiting to be brought into the light. The novel did not disappoint. I confess I do wish there are more novels coming dealing with more families up on Sourwood Mountain.
May 26, 2025
2/5 stars
I felt like so much happened, and nothing happened all at the same time.
I loved Mira & Ada June’s connection. But it felt like the book was more about them than the actual romance/relationship between Mira & Gordon. And I wish we had actually gotten to see them get to know each other and actually interact.
It felt unfinished, and I have more questions than anything.
I felt like so much happened, and nothing happened all at the same time.
I loved Mira & Ada June’s connection. But it felt like the book was more about them than the actual romance/relationship between Mira & Gordon. And I wish we had actually gotten to see them get to know each other and actually interact.
It felt unfinished, and I have more questions than anything.
April 4, 2024
Fans of Christy will love this heart tugging story! Set in 1910, the life of Mira takes a sudden turn as she accepts a post as a schoolteacher in the mountains of eastern Kentucky.
Full of interesting characters whose local speech colors in the picture of mountain life with both joys and sorrows. Mira and Gordon are a wonderful pair to watch as their marriage of convenience grows into something more. Ada June steals the show as she and Bo quickly work their way into Mira's heart. The story has plenty of spiritual elements gently added as they struggle through difficulties, growing their faith and learning to love each other. It was a wonderful story from start to finish. I wish it had been a bit longer, but there is room for a sequel perhaps.
Recommend! 4.5 stars
(An ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.)
Full of interesting characters whose local speech colors in the picture of mountain life with both joys and sorrows. Mira and Gordon are a wonderful pair to watch as their marriage of convenience grows into something more. Ada June steals the show as she and Bo quickly work their way into Mira's heart. The story has plenty of spiritual elements gently added as they struggle through difficulties, growing their faith and learning to love each other. It was a wonderful story from start to finish. I wish it had been a bit longer, but there is room for a sequel perhaps.
Recommend! 4.5 stars
(An ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.)
May 26, 2024
I knew I would enjoy The Song of Sourwood Mountain by Ann H. Gabhart (marriage of convenience! Kentucky hollers! the author!) but I didn’t realize I would fall so in love with Mira and Gordon, Ada June and Joseph, Bo the dog, and even Miss Vandercleve (who is a hoot!). From the very first page – with Gordon’s shocking proposal – I cared about these characters and I just kept finding more of them to love as Mira meets the people of Sourwood Mountain.
We are treated to three perspectives throughout this story – Mira’s, Gordon’s and 10-year-old orphan Ada June’s. This combination of voices kept me emotionally involved in the story and contributed to that character love I mentioned above. In some ways, I felt like we got young Joseph’s perspective too because Gabhart gave him such personality (and I would love to see a sequel some day featuring him and Ada June). The author uses these layered characters – along with the proud customs of the Kentucky hills – to explore questions of faith and longings for family, and my heart was moved by the lessons that can be gleaned from this story. Of particular meaning to me in this season of my husband’s unexpected unemployment was the reminder that God doesn’t always answer prayers the way we anticipate… or the way we want … but He is ever in our corner to work for our good & beyond our imaginations.
Bottom Line: In The Song of Sourwood Mountain, Ann H. Gabhart lovingly brings the hills of Appalachian Kentucky to life, fully immersing readers in the cadence of the unique dialect and the complex community dynamics. The characters are vividly drawn with deep emotions and yearned-for dreams, and readers will find themselves hurting for and rejoicing with Mira, Gordon, and Ada June as they fall in love with each other – and as we fall in love with them. I came to really adore this fictional holler and its people, and I am tucking away in my heart several faith reminders from this story. Oh – and I thought the epilogue was perfect! If you love Christy by Catherine Marshall, Appalachian Song by Michelle Shocklee, or the Blue Ridge Romances series from Pepper Basham, you will love The Song of Sourwood Mountain too!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
We are treated to three perspectives throughout this story – Mira’s, Gordon’s and 10-year-old orphan Ada June’s. This combination of voices kept me emotionally involved in the story and contributed to that character love I mentioned above. In some ways, I felt like we got young Joseph’s perspective too because Gabhart gave him such personality (and I would love to see a sequel some day featuring him and Ada June). The author uses these layered characters – along with the proud customs of the Kentucky hills – to explore questions of faith and longings for family, and my heart was moved by the lessons that can be gleaned from this story. Of particular meaning to me in this season of my husband’s unexpected unemployment was the reminder that God doesn’t always answer prayers the way we anticipate… or the way we want … but He is ever in our corner to work for our good & beyond our imaginations.
Bottom Line: In The Song of Sourwood Mountain, Ann H. Gabhart lovingly brings the hills of Appalachian Kentucky to life, fully immersing readers in the cadence of the unique dialect and the complex community dynamics. The characters are vividly drawn with deep emotions and yearned-for dreams, and readers will find themselves hurting for and rejoicing with Mira, Gordon, and Ada June as they fall in love with each other – and as we fall in love with them. I came to really adore this fictional holler and its people, and I am tucking away in my heart several faith reminders from this story. Oh – and I thought the epilogue was perfect! If you love Christy by Catherine Marshall, Appalachian Song by Michelle Shocklee, or the Blue Ridge Romances series from Pepper Basham, you will love The Song of Sourwood Mountain too!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
March 16, 2024
I reviewed this book for the Historical Novel Society, and per their policy, I cannot post the review until after it's published on their website on May 1st. I will update it then.
June 21, 2024
What a Trip to Appalachia!
From the suspicious and cantankerous to the grieving and misunderstood, Ann H Gabhart flawlessly pens a character driven story filled with insights into the Appalachian culture of the early 1900s. I felt like I was living with these characters, scaling the Kentucky hills, and struggling with its occupants to obtain food, shelter and warmth. I also came to empathize with the frequent heartache they endured.
This story helped me gain a sense of the vastly different cultures of this time and location. I truly loved sweet, ten year old Ada June and her dog, Bo. Her life, I’m sure, mimicked those true survivors that were cared for by relatives, neighbors and Appalachia itself. The courage she displayed, along with that of Mira in moving to this unknown place and the other brave women dispersed throughout this story, was inspiring and challenging. I enjoyed every minute of this story of God’s providence and grace.
This book is suitable for teens and older with no inappropriate intimate scenes and no bad language. I received this book from the author/publisher free of charge, with no expectation of a positive review.
From the suspicious and cantankerous to the grieving and misunderstood, Ann H Gabhart flawlessly pens a character driven story filled with insights into the Appalachian culture of the early 1900s. I felt like I was living with these characters, scaling the Kentucky hills, and struggling with its occupants to obtain food, shelter and warmth. I also came to empathize with the frequent heartache they endured.
This story helped me gain a sense of the vastly different cultures of this time and location. I truly loved sweet, ten year old Ada June and her dog, Bo. Her life, I’m sure, mimicked those true survivors that were cared for by relatives, neighbors and Appalachia itself. The courage she displayed, along with that of Mira in moving to this unknown place and the other brave women dispersed throughout this story, was inspiring and challenging. I enjoyed every minute of this story of God’s providence and grace.
This book is suitable for teens and older with no inappropriate intimate scenes and no bad language. I received this book from the author/publisher free of charge, with no expectation of a positive review.
April 1, 2025
A novel to leave a warm glow in your heart, and yet at the same time, bereft to leave characters which seem so real that they feel like family 🤗❤️😊
Loved this historical novel set in Sourwood mountain 1910. This beautiful, lyrical story begins with a surprise proposal from a visiting Preacher, and leads our heroine Mira Dean to accept a marriage of convenience and begin a new life as a teacher in the mountains.
There she meets a mute orphan, Ada June, a half wild child who lives in the woods half the time with her dog, Bo.
Despite being a richly layered story, for me it is very much character driven and Ann H Gabhart’s delightful prose never fails to disappoint.
Found family at its poignant best, with a gentle slow burn romance.
Another top read for me by Ann H Gabhart. This is an author I will now auto-buy anything she releases.
😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊
This book leaves the smell of the mountains in your nostrils and the light of the stars outside the cabin behind your eyes as you finish it with a satisfied smile.
✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨
Loved this historical novel set in Sourwood mountain 1910. This beautiful, lyrical story begins with a surprise proposal from a visiting Preacher, and leads our heroine Mira Dean to accept a marriage of convenience and begin a new life as a teacher in the mountains.
There she meets a mute orphan, Ada June, a half wild child who lives in the woods half the time with her dog, Bo.
Despite being a richly layered story, for me it is very much character driven and Ann H Gabhart’s delightful prose never fails to disappoint.
Found family at its poignant best, with a gentle slow burn romance.
Another top read for me by Ann H Gabhart. This is an author I will now auto-buy anything she releases.
😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊
This book leaves the smell of the mountains in your nostrils and the light of the stars outside the cabin behind your eyes as you finish it with a satisfied smile.
✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨
May 5, 2024
I adored The Song of Sourwood Mountain by Ann H. Gabhart. A southern historical romance set in the hills of Kentucky was truly heartwarming, pulling me into the lives of these spectacular characters, and making me wish for a sequel in this precious community. It was an absolute treat!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. The opinions expressed are completely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. The opinions expressed are completely my own.
April 23, 2024
Don't you just love it when a story sucks you in, and you're experiencing every feeling, every thought, every emotion with each character? When you're seeing what they see, traveling where they are? This is one of those stories.
I watched in disbelief as Gordon had the audacity to ask Mira to marry him. I watched her struggling against God, wanting to follow the path that she had already lined up for herself. I watched and giggled when Miss Vandercleve let her opinions known.
And I fell completely in love with Ada June. My heart broke for her over and over again, and also rejoiced with her.
Take a trip to Sourwood Mountain with all of us. You'll be glad you did.
~I was given a complimentary copy of this book by Revell through Interviews & Reviews. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.~
I watched in disbelief as Gordon had the audacity to ask Mira to marry him. I watched her struggling against God, wanting to follow the path that she had already lined up for herself. I watched and giggled when Miss Vandercleve let her opinions known.
And I fell completely in love with Ada June. My heart broke for her over and over again, and also rejoiced with her.
Take a trip to Sourwood Mountain with all of us. You'll be glad you did.
~I was given a complimentary copy of this book by Revell through Interviews & Reviews. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.~
March 16, 2024
Almira Dean has just found out that her teaching position has been eliminated. That bit of news comes right after she finds out her landlady wants her room to give to a niece. A former classmate has come to town to promote the mission back in the Appalachians where his church is. He asks Mira to marry him and come back into the hills with him to teach at the mission school.
Ann H Gabhart has created a lovely story about the backwoods people of the Appalachians and their lives in the early 1900s. This particular novel is one that is one of the more enjoyable books I have read this year. What begins as a marriage of convenience becomes a truly loving union. Some of the children in the book are favorite characters. The feels I had for Ada June were just too much at times. She was alone in the world and was moved from pillar to post. She spent most of her time outside in the woods or in a cave. When Mira and Gordon offer her a bed to sleep in and regular meals, she begins to blossom in ways that are most rewarding. Mira has a loving touch for all the children in the area and wants only the best for them--even the most misbehaved ones.
The Song of Sourwood Mountain is populated with the churchy busy-bodies and the recalcitrant husbands who go through life just trying to live. Most of these people don't have two pennies to rub together, but somehow they make life work. These people are not afraid to work hard and keep goods stored up for the lean times. The one telling point in their lives was the way they cared for others in need. It was a beauty to watch the way they worked together.
The book is easy to read and digest, but more importantly it is engaging to the reader. Five Stars, Two Thumbs up and a bluebird of happiness to sing outside your window.
Revell Publishing provided the copy I read for this review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.
Ann H Gabhart has created a lovely story about the backwoods people of the Appalachians and their lives in the early 1900s. This particular novel is one that is one of the more enjoyable books I have read this year. What begins as a marriage of convenience becomes a truly loving union. Some of the children in the book are favorite characters. The feels I had for Ada June were just too much at times. She was alone in the world and was moved from pillar to post. She spent most of her time outside in the woods or in a cave. When Mira and Gordon offer her a bed to sleep in and regular meals, she begins to blossom in ways that are most rewarding. Mira has a loving touch for all the children in the area and wants only the best for them--even the most misbehaved ones.
The Song of Sourwood Mountain is populated with the churchy busy-bodies and the recalcitrant husbands who go through life just trying to live. Most of these people don't have two pennies to rub together, but somehow they make life work. These people are not afraid to work hard and keep goods stored up for the lean times. The one telling point in their lives was the way they cared for others in need. It was a beauty to watch the way they worked together.
The book is easy to read and digest, but more importantly it is engaging to the reader. Five Stars, Two Thumbs up and a bluebird of happiness to sing outside your window.
Revell Publishing provided the copy I read for this review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.
June 20, 2024
Sweet, wholesome, and uplifting; this historical inspirational romance is heavy on the historical drama and light on the romance. Within the span of a week Mira Dean has lost her teaching position, her lodging, and committed to marrying a man she barely knows to be a preacher's wife and teacher in the Kentucky hills. Mira prays on it and feel that the Lord is calling her to take a leap of faith and to help the children who have never had a school or a teacher. She fervently hope that she will learn to love the stranger she married as well. When she arrives in Sourwood she finds herself instantly falling in love the community and their strange ways. A 10 year old orphan named Ada June also takes a spot in her heart and vice versa. When one door closes, another one opens.
May 6, 2024
In this unusual marriage of convenience story, Mira is also encountering a lifestyle that she knows nothing about. But when God blocks her way of life in the city, she follows the lead He provides. “You don’t have a problem, my dear. You have an opportunity.” She marries Preacher Gordon and travels to a backwoods community to become a teacher to children in Sourwood, Kentucky.
Ms. Gabhart is an extraordinary storyteller. She is an artist with words and paints a realistic picture of existence in the hollers of Appalachia in 1910. The little expressions and mountain traditions bring the story to life, the characters are likable, authentic and drew me into the story.
The portrayal of Mira as she dealt with the unknown and as she connected with the mountain folk was well written. You can tell the author has dogs by the way she depicts their behavior. A favorite character was Ada June, a lonely orphan girl who is passed from family to family because she can help with children and chores. After her mother dies, she chooses to speak to a select few. But the tender heart of Mira shows Ada June love and pulls her out of her shell.
This was a memorable story that touched on many emotions and was a very satisfying read.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell on behalf of the author. I was nit required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*
Ms. Gabhart is an extraordinary storyteller. She is an artist with words and paints a realistic picture of existence in the hollers of Appalachia in 1910. The little expressions and mountain traditions bring the story to life, the characters are likable, authentic and drew me into the story.
The portrayal of Mira as she dealt with the unknown and as she connected with the mountain folk was well written. You can tell the author has dogs by the way she depicts their behavior. A favorite character was Ada June, a lonely orphan girl who is passed from family to family because she can help with children and chores. After her mother dies, she chooses to speak to a select few. But the tender heart of Mira shows Ada June love and pulls her out of her shell.
This was a memorable story that touched on many emotions and was a very satisfying read.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell on behalf of the author. I was nit required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*
June 10, 2024
Wonderful pushed all my buttons. Review to follow nap.
I love books that are like mail order bride/marriages of convenience. This being the second of those two.. It’s not a spoiler because it’s right out there.
The way the preacher’s new wife was accepted was heartwarming. Some scary and sad moments along the way, as is life.
I loved the backwoods setting and the only thing I didn’t reconcile was a few premature births. That was a thing during that time that most babies did not survive. But I loved the interaction between teacher and students, the bone chilling winter and of course the dog.
Ann Gabhart is one of my favorite authors and another of her books to mark as read , certainly read again.
I received an ARC from the publisher through NetGalley. This did not affect my honest opinion.
I love books that are like mail order bride/marriages of convenience. This being the second of those two.. It’s not a spoiler because it’s right out there.
The way the preacher’s new wife was accepted was heartwarming. Some scary and sad moments along the way, as is life.
I loved the backwoods setting and the only thing I didn’t reconcile was a few premature births. That was a thing during that time that most babies did not survive. But I loved the interaction between teacher and students, the bone chilling winter and of course the dog.
Ann Gabhart is one of my favorite authors and another of her books to mark as read , certainly read again.
I received an ARC from the publisher through NetGalley. This did not affect my honest opinion.
June 14, 2024
I unfortunately did not like The Song of Sourwood Mountain as much as I had hoped to. I could not stand Gordon at all in the beginning. He grew on me a bit but I still wasn’t a fan of him by the end of the book. I felt like Mira was pressured into stuff, but eventually I was able to enjoy her story more. Pretty much everything that happened or what people felt they should do was “the Lord’s prompting”. God most definitely can prompt us to do stuff but this phrase was over used in my opinion.
I did enjoy the setting of the Kentucky mountains and seeing Mira settle into a new place. Ada June was a cute kid and it was nice seeing her point of view throughout the book as well.
I did enjoy the setting of the Kentucky mountains and seeing Mira settle into a new place. Ada June was a cute kid and it was nice seeing her point of view throughout the book as well.
June 24, 2024
What a fantastic and moving story from Ann H. Gabhart. I binged the entire story in less than 12 hours!
The story had me captured right from the beginning. About a woman who lost her first love and thought she would never find love again, and a preacher who is looking for a school teacher but ends up finding a wife.
I loved the characters, especially the children. The children had me wrapped around their fingers and in love with them! I think when an author has me fall in love with the children of a story, it's bound to be a great read.
*thank you to Baker Publishing for a copy of this book to read and review. All thoughts are my own.
The story had me captured right from the beginning. About a woman who lost her first love and thought she would never find love again, and a preacher who is looking for a school teacher but ends up finding a wife.
I loved the characters, especially the children. The children had me wrapped around their fingers and in love with them! I think when an author has me fall in love with the children of a story, it's bound to be a great read.
*thank you to Baker Publishing for a copy of this book to read and review. All thoughts are my own.
June 26, 2024
Based on the synopsis, I thought this book was going to be equally about Mira going into a marriage of convenience and becoming a teacher in a different community. It ended up being a lot about the marriage and there were about 5 pages total about what she experienced as a teacher in Sourwood. This made the plot way too slow for me. I loved the characters, but the plot being so different from my expectations made it putdownable.
March 11, 2024
This was a wonderfully sweet story! I loved watching the characters draw close to one another and to God. The back and forth of the story telling between Mira, Gordon, and Ada June was very well done.
July 5, 2024
4.5⭐️ What a sweet marriage of convenience set in the mountains. Loved learning about the people of Sourwood. The author grabbed me immediately with a dramatic start.
October 28, 2024
A solid, comforting book.
This delightful book has such a great winter/spring atmosphere. Our characters are learning to step out on faith and trust God’s will. Something interesting about this book: in essence of a plot…there’s not a super strong plot, but the characters are so compelling that it keeps you reading.
We begin with Mira who is a teacher with a heart for God and children. She lost her fiancée and since has not loved anyone else.
In steps Gordon who proposes to Mira right off the bat. She refuses, at first, but God directs her steps.
This is a really sweet story. The romance was gentle and there is something I would check out in the Content section below. Gordon is a preacher, so for those wanting an actually good preacher in books these days, try this book. Faith content was great! And great family/marriage/adoption messages
Content: minor violence (lightly detailed), a kiss or two (lightly detailed), married couple lays beside each other in bed (lightly detailed), soooo…there’s scene that alludes to married couple but it’s not necessarily fade-to-black (take that as you will)
This delightful book has such a great winter/spring atmosphere. Our characters are learning to step out on faith and trust God’s will. Something interesting about this book: in essence of a plot…there’s not a super strong plot, but the characters are so compelling that it keeps you reading.
We begin with Mira who is a teacher with a heart for God and children. She lost her fiancée and since has not loved anyone else.
In steps Gordon who proposes to Mira right off the bat. She refuses, at first, but God directs her steps.
This is a really sweet story. The romance was gentle and there is something I would check out in the Content section below. Gordon is a preacher, so for those wanting an actually good preacher in books these days, try this book. Faith content was great! And great family/marriage/adoption messages
Content: minor violence (lightly detailed), a kiss or two (lightly detailed), married couple lays beside each other in bed (lightly detailed), soooo…there’s scene that alludes to married couple but it’s not necessarily fade-to-black (take that as you will)
May 21, 2024
This review by librarian Christine Barth was first published in the May issue of Library Journal.
Mira Dean isn't expecting a marriage proposal on an ordinary Sunday, but the missionary speaker at church insists that God is calling her to be his wife—and the teacher at his remote Appalachian mission school.
Content in her life as a spinster teacher ever since the death of her fiancé, Mira turns Gordon Covington down. But then she loses both her job and her place to live over the next few days, so she decides to take a chance on Sourwood, KY, and Gordon.
In 1910, there are no roads into Sourwood, no electricity or running water, and not much welcome for outsiders. But Mira finds purpose in caring for an orphan girl and a widow, even as she has to take on school bullies and their parents. As Mira and Gordon try to win over Sourwood, their marriage of convenience grows into something more.
VERDICT Readers interested in the hardscrabble mountain life, as depicted in Michelle Shocklee's Appalachian Song and Lynn Austin's Wonderland Creek, will want to add the latest from Gabhart (In the Shadow of the River) to their TBR lists.
Mira Dean isn't expecting a marriage proposal on an ordinary Sunday, but the missionary speaker at church insists that God is calling her to be his wife—and the teacher at his remote Appalachian mission school.
Content in her life as a spinster teacher ever since the death of her fiancé, Mira turns Gordon Covington down. But then she loses both her job and her place to live over the next few days, so she decides to take a chance on Sourwood, KY, and Gordon.
In 1910, there are no roads into Sourwood, no electricity or running water, and not much welcome for outsiders. But Mira finds purpose in caring for an orphan girl and a widow, even as she has to take on school bullies and their parents. As Mira and Gordon try to win over Sourwood, their marriage of convenience grows into something more.
VERDICT Readers interested in the hardscrabble mountain life, as depicted in Michelle Shocklee's Appalachian Song and Lynn Austin's Wonderland Creek, will want to add the latest from Gabhart (In the Shadow of the River) to their TBR lists.
May 26, 2024
4.5 Stars
I love knowing when I open an Ann H. Gabhart book I will learn something about my state that I didn’t know. In this book I learned Sourwood is a real place on the KY map and what a Sourwood tree looks like. I’ve never seen one in person but I will be looking for one in the wild.
The Song of Sourwood Mountain swept me up and didn’t let me go. Mira was so brave as so many women in the early 1900s were. To leave a city you are comfortable with to go to a part of the state you know nothing about. To trust a man you went to school with and become his wife. To become a surrogate mother when you’ve never been a mother.
Hurry and pick up your copy today. You don’t want to miss out on this moving tale of bravery and love set in the KY Appalachian Mountains.
I love knowing when I open an Ann H. Gabhart book I will learn something about my state that I didn’t know. In this book I learned Sourwood is a real place on the KY map and what a Sourwood tree looks like. I’ve never seen one in person but I will be looking for one in the wild.
The Song of Sourwood Mountain swept me up and didn’t let me go. Mira was so brave as so many women in the early 1900s were. To leave a city you are comfortable with to go to a part of the state you know nothing about. To trust a man you went to school with and become his wife. To become a surrogate mother when you’ve never been a mother.
Hurry and pick up your copy today. You don’t want to miss out on this moving tale of bravery and love set in the KY Appalachian Mountains.
May 24, 2024
I most certainly enjoyed The Song of Sourwood Mountain -by Ann H Gabhart . She is such a great word painter that you actually feel like you've visited the mountain community in Eastern Kentucky. It's about a missionary preacher, named Gordon Covington and a school teacher named Mira Dean. She was happy teaching school where she was but when Gordon made an impassioned plea about the children of Sourwood Mountain who had no teacher. They would grow up illiterate. This touched Mira's heart. Almost she was persuaded but she already had a position. When God opens a door, just like Jonah, you can run but you can't hide from God's will. That is all I will say. It's a great read. I would like to thank the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC. I was under no obligation for a positive review. All opinions are my own.
May 17, 2024
I really enjoy novels set in Kentucky mountainsides, and this was another great historical read based in that area. Mira is happy being a teacher and living in the small rental room, but she is starting to feel the longing for a family of her own. But that would mean a husband, and giving up her teaching career and she hasn't really met anyone meeting her fancy and the two kind of go hand in hand. When a classmate from her past offers her just what she has been thinking about. She cannot believe how presumptuous this is of him! It has been years since they were in school and are different people now. But when it seems doors are closing and giving her no other options, she realizes that just maybe his offer was God's way of giving her what she has wanted. I really loved this storyline as well as the characters. I also enjoyed the other stories wound through out and especially loved little miss Ada June! This was a great heartfelt novel about trusting in the Lord in putting us where we are needed. Thank you to the author and the Revell blogger program for the complementary novel. This review is of my own opinion and accord.
May 13, 2024
I didn’t want to put this book down as I quickly fell into Mira’s life that she had relegated herself to since the death of her fiancée. But….God has different plans and as doors close God opens one to a life completely different than what she envisioned. I immediately fell in love with Ada June and in my opinion she carried the story to new heights. In the midst of all the changes in her life Mira also finds the blessings and as she grows and learns the ways of the Appalachian people she finds they have become a part of herself. I loved the characters and the storytelling as it’s like sitting on your porch listening as a storyteller immerses you in what they have to say which is part of Appalachian history. I love that this author has that ability and I am always satisfied when I turn the last page. From the beautiful cover to the ending you will find you can’t devour it fast enough but that you want to slow down so you can savor the words. I highly recommend as you won’t want to miss meeting characters that stay with you.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher/author. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher/author. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
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