That Which Binds Us

by Cathy Rigg

2025 Foreword INDIES Book of the Year Awards Finalist (Historical Fiction)

In the 1860s, on Virginia’s Appalachian frontier, the fates of five people are forever linked as they navigate love, loss, and the cost of buried secrets amid the strife and turmoil of an unimaginable civil war.

In 1854, on the lawless western edge of Virginia, Elizabeth Young stands among the throngs and watches as her beloved uncle is hanged for murder. She can tell that there is more to this spectacle than meets the eye, and she vows then and there she’ll discover the truth then leave these godforsaken mountains. She’ll go where the land is flat, where life is in the open, where dreams have room to roam.

But fate has another idea. Three strangers with dreams and secrets of their own come into her Patrick Hagan, Irish Catholic immigrant and a bright young attorney with a dogged determination to do good and make good; Mary Lenore Kitchens, the sophisticated teacher who’s come to Virginia’s hinterlands, for who knows why; handsome Ben Grubb, local boy, banjo prodigy, a mischievous sort who wants only to play. Soon their lives become inextricably linked, along with that of Red Hopkins, an old friend to Elizabeth’s Papa, and in marches the Civil War.

Punctuated by class and the realities of a devastating conflict, That Which Binds Us is a broad work of historical fiction that celebrates our best and explores our worst, that serves to remind us that across continents and cultures and generations, love holds the greatest power of all.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction

320 pages, Hardcover

First published June 10, 2025

About the author

Cathy Rigg is an author and maker with far more interests than she has time. Born and raised in Virginia’s Appalachian Mountains, her debut novel, THAT WHICH BINDS US, was published by Keylight Books in June of 2025. A work of historical fiction, the story is set in those beloved mountains and centers around five people whose lives intersect during the tumultuous years of the Civil War.

Reviews

[Amina · Rating 3 out of 5]

✰ 2.75 stars ✰

“It is love, not war, that does the most damage of all.”

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ That Which Binds Us is a heartfelt historical tale of the people residing in the Southern Appalachian of Virginia and a testament of their resilience and courage and an homage to the ever-reaching love and connection to the land on which they live - an unbreakable bond that stands the test of time, as well as fate. Set during the years before and after the Civil War, it is a nonlinear narrative told through alternating multi-faceted perspectives that brings forth a story of longing and grief and redemption, and of how the ties that bind us compel us to our roots, despite our personal desires, which ultimately set us forward the path our lives will follow forever.

“And still there is a kinship I feel with this land... There is so much to gain, and there is so much to lose.”

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ It is the hanging of her father's twin brother, Uncle Ruck, that thirteen-year-old Elizabeth witnessed at the start of the story that set the stage for what will transpire as the plot progresses. The secrets and guilt we carry onto ourselves for the sake of family - bound by a code that cannot be broken to protect our hearts from grief unbeknownst to them.

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ​Loyal, fierce, and defiant​ Elizabeth is an inquisitive young girl with the desire for more, which is as offensive, and almost unbearable for how there is no hope for it. Duty and responsibility to familial obligations stifles her imagination and limits her mind to the mountain rural life she wishes to escape. But, amidst the moments which hold her back, there are brief moments of respite. The dawning attention from handsome young Banjo Ben, that strikes up a bittersweet but rather cute romance between the two of them that I liked. 'I wanted to be there. I wanted you to see me there.'​ It serves as the catalyst for much as time and events weave together to paint the tapestry of the lives of those caught up in the Civil War.

“We was just going on with our days, our land and our families being what we valued most; our land and our families, it turning out, being what we was fierce to protect.”

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ The​ writing was filled with respect and beauty for family and religion and the mountains they call home - 'they will not let you go. You are theirs forever' - that shines in the narrative. Rich with characters from different backgrounds and social status, it is a testament to each of their strength and convictions - moral obligations that propels them to behave that they do, to still be grateful for the opportunities they are blessed with Intertwined is the inescapable faith of trusting in love and commitment and yielding their hearts and dreams to a future unbeknownst to them. Times are tough and tragedy prevails, but the author steadfastly guides her readers through a journey of courage during a time when war is here, even in the mountains that they hold so dear.

“... a cry against the woes of life, the pain that comes with loss, the price of loving somebody so much.”

​ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ The story is divided into four time periods, and I would have preferred if the years of the war had not transpired in an epistolary format as it takes away the essence of emotions of the lives affected by it​.​ Although, perhaps, it belonged to the one character that my heart felt for the most - one of such pure determination and kindness - 'my will nor my heart will they break, so strong is my promise, the love I've for you.' I felt​ such a loss of the unflinching courage and loneliness displayed on both sides​ and despite how their riches may be in ruin, hateful differences coursing on both sides, they would still find ways to begin again.

​ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ I know with the right target audience there will be a beautiful message to walk away from​ ​- an ode to women who wear scars like armor, when 'life is a battle'. And perhaps if events had transpired differently, my heart would be more at ease with the final outcome - for which I will address my grievances in a vague manner afterwards. But, for the most part, I was fully committed and interested in Elizabeth's story - both her own and that of her​ parent's past - the crossroads of life with decisions we do not foresee​. It is those very secrets that willingly compels us to what we believe is right, even if it disappoints. It was a hard-fought and determined journey, one not without its sadness and secrets, but ultimately, one which captured what it means when one accepts what it means to be wholeheartedly content by That Which Binds Us for our happiness and protection and our future.

Personal Rant - Feel Free to Ignore

I do believe that the author ​does​ convincingly portray that Elizabeth's end was more pure and purposeful than what she desired; but a part of me could not overlook the fact that she lost out on what she had hoped to achieve. That the circumstances of life prevented her from having what she truly desired. A girl who really believed she could have it - a girl with hopes and dreams - that were shattered by uncontrollable acts of fate. While I do feel it is worthwhile to stay true to your family - loyal to your roots, it seemed disheartening to see sacrifices taken to keep it. I don't think I felt entirely comfortable with Elizabeth's future - personally. Maybe I am projecting my own hurt for characters - even if it turned out okay, I didn't feel that it was fair. It was not depressing, but I was despondent - cuz as much as what we cannot fight and those are the ties of fate.

'What do we know of destiny, Patrick? What do we know of fate?'

Fate is something never once mentioned, but it is prevalent in everything. Choices and actions that lead to circumstances and eventual decisions that may not exactly be warranted or welcome, but we have no choice but to accept them for however long it may be. That reasoning is a tough pill for me to swallow, despite how the narrative convinces me otherwise. For it is in relation to the setting and time that draws out the nature and well-being of said characters that makes it unworthy and undeserving of me to be critical of it. The eventual romance was also unsettling; the two-fold setting up of it left me uneasy and upset. I understand the realism of it, but I was not in favor of it.

It diminished my appreciation for the forward thinking Irishman that Patrick Hagan was; it left an unpleasant taste in my mouth, especially considering that he met her when she was thirteen and he was twenty-three, so how we just have to yield our hearts to simply what must be, because there is no better alternative... It is a tough spot; maybe because it seems so relatable that it hurts to see what one has to give up in order to stay true to our roots - our principles. It pains me to see how love can be lost so easily as how it was achieved so willingly. Perhaps in that aspect, I failed to see the message the author wished to convey - that even when fate changes what we wanted, it still gives us something worthwhile in return. I still do commend the author for beauty and reality she captured, but my heart is pained pain and sorrow and anger for what had to happen - could've would've, should've - that could not help but affect my overall thoughts on the story.

*Thank you to Edelweiss for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.

[Terrie Timms · Rating 5 out of 5]

I will preface my review by telling you that historical fiction is not my first choice in genres. I began the book sitting on my deck on a sunny afternoon and was so engrossed that it was dark and a little chilly when I moved inside to complete the book! The characters are well developed, funny, strong willed, kind and loving At first I wasn’t sure I would like the chapters being labeled and told from different characters points of view, but that actually was the perfect way to present this wonderful story of the trials of the Appalachian mountain people just before and during the Civil War.
Definitely recommend!! I think we will see more from this author and I look forward to reading her next novel!

[Brynn Sowder · Rating 4 out of 5]

“For if it should prove to be God’s will that her heart never recovered or her resolve never faded, I would spend the rest of my days loving Elizabeth Young Grubb the only way I could: from afar.”


Multiple Viewpoints 🔍
Historical Fiction 📖
Faith 🙏🏼
Family 🧑‍🧑‍🧒‍🧒

This was a sweet historical fiction full of love and heartbreak set in the Appalachian mountains of SW Virginia. This takes place during the years leading up to and through the Civil War. We see glimpses of reluctant mountaineers who wanted nothing to do with the war. I had never really thought much about the women and children left behind when conscription was enforced.

I loved the sweet young romance and the love fought for after the war had hardened the hearts of so many.

It took me a bit to get all of the characters straight with the multiple viewpoints but it added a lot of depth once you got into the story.

Patrick Hagan will be your new favorite book boyfriend. 🫶🏼

I also really appreciated the Author’s Note to give context to the real people and imagined characters.

Thank you to #NetGalley and Turner Publishing Company for the ARC of this book. Opinions are my own. #ThatWhichBindsUs

[Tonia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. As an avid reader of historical fiction, I've read many books set during WWII, but this is the first I've read set during the Civil War era. It was a refreshing change. The story comes to life through the viewpoints of the five main characters. Rigg brings these characters to life in a way that is true and authentic. I hope this debut novel will lead to more from this author.

[Catherine Stewart · Rating 5 out of 5]

Being of the Appalachian Mountains, I was very excited to read this book. The vivid imagery paints a portrait of the mountains I love perfectly. There are so many stand out sentences and paragraphs that I had to write them down so that I can keep them with me forever. The women depicted in this novel, while set during the Civil War era, are still the types of women you will find in these mountains— strong, resilient, hardworking, loyal. The characters and this story will stay with you long after you put the book down. I so hope this becomes a movie, because I believe it is a story that would translate well on screen. The author did immense research while writing the novel, as she tells in the Author’s note at the end of the book. It was interesting to see how many of the characters and places were very authentic. Even if you aren’t from these mountains, or even a lover of historical fiction, I feel that you will enjoy this book. I could not put it down and had to find out what would become of these beloved characters! I need more from this author!!

[Holly Browning · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lovely historical fiction set in SW Virginia in the years culminating the Civil War. Told through the perspectives of lives interwoven with one another in a hard time.A rugged, yet breathtaking setting sets the scene for how our relationships with one another can help us truly survive. Highly recommended! #thatwhichbindsus #cathyrigg #netgalley #goodreads

[Lyndi (mibookobsession) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Told from the perspective of five people with intertwining stories in the time just before and after the start of the Civil War, the story is an immersive page-turner. The character development was excellent and I was impressed that this is a debut novel. It describes the Appalachian mountain people in Virginia in a time period that I haven't read much about. I look forward to reading more by this author.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Michelle Kimber · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an engrossing historical fiction. I enjoyed each of the MCs struggles and the hard emotions it stirred up in me. I couldn't put the book down. It was so very well written.

[Jeanne Mayo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lovely such a truly lovely escape into the hills of Southwest Virginia and into history. I thought at first I would have trouble with the chapters being told from different character’s perspectives- but as I continued, I got to know each character. They are lovely people.

[Hannah Maiberger · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a delightful read! A beautiful story set in Appalachia in the Civil War — I enjoyed every minute of this!

[Carolyn Newton · Rating 5 out of 5]

“That Which Binds Us” by Cathy Rigg is a novel with ambition and heart. It is a gorgeous, heartbreaking, and ultimately, hopeful story of people caught up in the savage American Civil War. There are shades of “Cold Mountain” here - poor mountain folk who are clawing out a hardscrabble life yet who are swept up into a war instigated by and for the wealthy and powerful. Through Rigg’s deft storytelling, we experience the angst of the times in the endearing and distinct voices of a cast of memorable characters. A beautiful debut!

[Kathy Hunter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Descriptive painting of the time period and landscape. Excellent character development. I feel like I know them personally. I highly recommend this book!

[Vicki F · Rating 4 out of 5]

That Which Binds Us by Cathy Rigg is set in western Virginia in the Appalachian Mountains. Mutiple characters weave their way through the novel with the main characters of Elizabeth and Patrick. As each character 'takes the stage' the story is told from their point of view which makes it important to pay attention to who that character is by the title of the chapter. In some ways I found this frustrating, but it offered a deeper understanding of each character. The strength of the characters is vividly displayed, especially during the time period during the Civil War.

Releases June 10th. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Claire Chaloupka · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful, captivating historical fiction surrounding themes of love, loss, grief, and the choice to overcome all the death and destruction of the civil war. The characters are ones you will both root for and fall in love with. What an incredible story to come out of the Appalachian Mountains. If Atmospheric is your thing, you’ll love this writing!!

[Libba · Rating 3 out of 5]

Based on my overall impression of this book, I'd rate it a 3, but I bumped it up to a 3.5 because of the intimacy and authenticity with which Cathy Rigg tells her story. As 13-year-old Elizabeth Young tearfully observed the public hanging of her beloved Uncle Ruck, her father's estranged twin brother, she vowed to leave forever the mountains that she believes to have betrayed her family. But it was a vow she was unable to keep. For she was held in place by many and varied ties that bound her to the close-knit mountain community in Southwest Virginia that had harbored her family and its secrets for generations. They were ties of love for family, for her young husband who was swept into the cruel whirlwinds of the Civil War and a premature death in a Union prison camp; for her father, devastated by the fate of his brother and by his own age and disability. And they were the ties of love for the community that was part of her being and had needs of its own as its widows, children, and others who were left behind struggled to cope with the effects of the long and brutal war. We hear Elizabeth's story through the voices of five narrators: Elizabeth herself, her young soldier husband, the newly-minted Irish attorney who loves and protects her, the elegant schoolteacher who becomes her close friend and mentor, and the all-knowing surrogate father who guides the family and guards its secrets. Drawing from real incidents and characters discovered by the author in her ten years of research on life in the Virginia hills during the tumultuous mid-eighteenth century, she uses these voices to immerse the reader in the lives of ordinary folk buffeted by the extraordinary challenges of the times in which they lived. It is a fascinating time of adaptation and transition, lingering hostilities, and near-anarchy that affected every corner of daily life. Cathy Rigg does justice to this fascinating material with her beautiful rendering of the place, the characters, and their loyalty and love for one another.

If you are interested in "ordinary life" during the turbulent Civil War and post-Civil War years, I also recommend Paulette Jiles' novels, especially Simon the Fiddler and Chenneville; Nowhere Else on Earth, by Josephine Humphries; Night Watch, by Jayne Ann Phillips; and (of course) Cold Mountain, by Charles Frazier.

[Fran Hawthorne · Rating 3 out of 5]

Clearly, Cathy Rigg loves the rugged Appalachian Mountains of southwestern Virginia where her family ties go back seven generations. The four narrators of this beautifully written Civil War-era novel—Riggs’s debut—feel that land’s pull with varying but intense passions:

Elizabeth Young, the smart and outspoken daughter of a local shop owner, is 13 years old when the novel begins in 1854 and itching to escape to the bigger world.

Mary Lenore (Marilee) Kitchens, the new schoolteacher, arrives in the mountains from her privileged life in Charlottesville, Virginia, feeling compelled to educate the “people of such limited experience, stuck like they are in the hills.” She becomes a mentor to Elizabeth–and also, though she won’t really admit it, a rival.

Patrick Hagan managed to escape the potato famine of his native Ireland thanks to the help of a successful uncle. After studying law, he ends up with his uncle in Appalachia and slowly begins to feel like he belongs with the land and its people, even though he is so different from them in terms of class, money, and religion. As the area’s only two educated outsiders, he and Marilee would seem to make a perfect couple.

Red Hopkins, a farmer born-and-bred to the rugged terrain, is a close friend to Elizabeth’s father and his brother, who themselves have become bitter enemies. Red has never lived anywhere else and never wanted to.

Riggs, the author, does an amazing job at finding unique voices for each of these four—plus Ben Grubb, another love interest, who writes many letters home to Appalachia from the Civil War’s increasingly bloody frontlines. (The book’s main flaw is that the section containing his letters goes on too long.)

In addition, the characters offer an unusual vantage point into slavery and the origins of the war. These impoverished folks are instinctively loyal to their homeland, the Confederacy; yet, other than Marilee’s family, they have never been enslavers. So this is far from another Gone with the Wind.

In the years leading up to the war, Patrick and Marilee engage in strongly matched debates. She points out that “slavery is protected in the Constitution.” He believes that slavery is wrong but also wants to avoid a war over the issue.

The plot is also compelling in other ways, with surprising twists and turns, and secrets that keep unraveling.

Altogether, the book raises important questions about loyalty and belonging—questions that will linger with the reader. (A longer version of this review was first posted on Story Circle Network)

[Angie Hyche · Rating 5 out of 5]

I met the author at a book festival at my local public library in Kingsport, Tennessee. We had a great conversation as fellow local authors, and I bought this book. From the first pages, I could see that the quality of the writing was superb. It drew me in immediately.

I’m including a few of my favorite quotes from early in the book. After jotting down quotes for a while, I decided to just let myself get lost in the story.

Reading the Author’s Note at the end where Cathy describes her research, especially the characters who were based on real people from the area, was fascinating and gave me even more appreciation for the book. A phenomenal story!

1. “Look up, girl. Even in the snow, you can see the stars.”
2. “I peeked around to catch a glimpse of Papa’s face, which had drooped like a sad little flower gone too long without water. His skin was the color of ashes and sagged loose from his bones, his back hunched over like it couldn’t hold up his shoulders anymore.”
3. “Rufus has been working on this death sentence since we was six years old.”
4. “Just that fast all my feelings drained out making room for a whole big load of sad.”
5. “The tiniest smile got surrendered by Uncle Ruck, and I gave it a moment, liking the feel of him and me and a little sweetness surrounding us.”
6. “She was all rough and tumble, this one, her spirit propelling her forward faster than common sense could regulate.”
7. “His fingers moved across those strings, picking up speed and turning ‘Amazing Grace’ into something else entirely—a cry against the woes of life, the pain that comes with loss, the price of loving somebody so much.”

[Dina Ovando-Brown · Rating 4 out of 5]

That Which Binds Us" by Cathy Rigg is her debut book and I look forward to reading any subsequent books based on this one.
Set in the Appalachian Mountains in West Virginia during the Civil War, this beautifully descriptive book draws you not only into rugged mountains, the historical details makes you feel a part of the town, its characters and the culture built in family, loyalty, faith, friendship and strength.
Based on 5 main characters POV's, the book opens with the main protagonist, 13 year old Elizabeth, witnessing her uncle's death, then introduces the rest of the characters, Patrick, Mary Lenore, Ben, and Red with depth in layered stories, weaving their connections throughout the story. . There is suspense, surprises, war, struggle's and plot twists with authentic characters that will capture your attention and keep you engaged.
There is some violence, both local and during the war, appropriate to the story and history.. The romance is sweet and clean and language mostly clean as well.
I really appreciated the Author’s Note explaining the real people in history and imagined characters, her research is outstanding.

I strongly recommend this captivating historical read that brings in a unique perspective to the Civil War through engaging characters set in the beautiful landscape of the Appalachian Mountains, sprinkled with Freemasonry history and mysteries revealed in a well paced unveiling.

A big note of gratitude to NetGalley and Turner Publishing Company for the ARC, it was a pleasure reading this book. All opinions expressed are my own.

[CYNTHIA · Rating 5 out of 5]

In 1854, on the lawless western edge of Virginia, Elizabeth Young stands among the throngs and watches as her beloved uncle is hanged for murder. There is more to this spectacle than meets the eye, she can tell, and she vows then and there she’ll get to the bottom, she’ll uncover truths, then she’ll leave these godforsaken mountains. She’ll go where the land is flat, where life is in the open, where dreams have room to roam.

But fate has another idea. Into her life come three strangers with dreams and secrets of their Patrick Hagan, Irish Catholic immigrant and a bright young attorney with a dogged determination to do good and make good; Mary Lenore Kitchens, the sophisticated teacher who’s come to Virginia’s hinterlands, who knows why; handsome Ben Grubb, local boy, banjo prodigy, a mischievous sort who wants only to play. Soon their lives become inextricably linked, along with that of Red Hopkins, an old friend to Elizabeth’s Papa, and in marches the Civil War.

Punctuated by class and the realities of a devastating conflict, That Which Binds Us is a broad work of historical fiction that celebrates our best and explores our worst, that serves to remind us that across continents and cultures and generations, love holds the greatest power of all.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

That Which Binds Us is a sweeping yet intimate portrait of 1860s Appalachian Virginia. From the very first chapter, Riggs’s depth of research is undeniable and evident in her portrayal of legal tensions, class divides, folk traditions, and the Civil War. I was truly blown away by how immersive this book was. The mountains are no passive backdrop, they are living, breathing. I could feel the land in this book as it bore witness to the characters’ journeys. Elizabeth, Patrick, Mary Lenore, Ben, and Red each bring their own rich, layered stories. Riggs masterfully captures their inner monologue and spoken voice with such clarity and distinction that I could hear each one individually. Their experiences of love, loss, and connection felt achingly real. If you enjoy multi-POV historical fiction novels that slowly reveal connections, you’ll love this book. I believe this novel will resonate with fans of Cold Mountain by Charles Frazier and Horse by Geraldine Brooks. A stunning debut that will stay with me for years to come!

[Dhparduegmail.com · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Powerful and Immersive Read

I can’t say enough good things about THAT WHICH BINDS US. From the moment I picked it up, I was hooked. The story is beautifully written with rich, descriptive language that made me feel like I was right there—I could hear the music, see the landscape, and feel every emotion the characters experienced.

The use of native speech and dialect from the western Appalachian Mountains adds so much authenticity. The historical details are spot-on, especially the insights into Appalachian life and the Freemason brotherhood. It’s clear a lot of research and heart went into this book.

The plot flows smoothly through the lives of the main characters as they live through the harsh realities of the Civil War. Their struggles felt deeply personal and moving.

If you love historical fiction with strong characters, emotional depth, and vivid settings, I highly recommend this novel. Perfect for your book club—you’ll be glad you picked it up!

[N.J. Mastro · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had this book on my TBR list for a few months, thinking it was a Civil War novel and that I knew everything I needed to know about the war. How wrong I was. That Which Binds Us is so much more. It's a story about people on the Confederate side who didn't necessarily want to be there but found themselves in the thick of things by virtue of where they lived.

Rigg grew up in Appalachia and writes about the region with passion and insight, reminding me of Barbara Kingsolver in Demon Copperhead. The language and the characters themselves feel true to their unique and sometimes heart-rending Appalachian ways. What varies, of course, is the era. That Which Binds Us takes place prior to and up through the end of the U.S. Civil War.

Two things stood out to me that make the novel so remarkable. One is the utterly interesting and dynamic characters Rigg has created. They're colorful, unique, and part of Appalachia itself. The second is the manner in which she brings each character's voice alive. Told from five different POVs, the story weaves through the lives of these mountain people in ways that will take your breath away. I don't say that about many novels, but I do about this one. I hated to see it end. Definitely a 5-star read!

[Fran Bouknight · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can’t wait for everyone to have an opportunity to join me in reading this novel by Cathy Rigg! I loved getting to know each character and (as a Southerner myself) appreciate the local dialogue/dialect of Ms. Rigg’s characters- especially Elizabeth. The characters are authentic and experience real events of their time.

That Which Binds Us brings to life the difficulty of surviving in the Appalachian Mountains, the authenticity of the Appalachian people and takes us through their days of the Civil War. The characters are beautifully created, honest and believable.

I am a huge fan of historical fiction and this one is a gem! The author’s attention to historical and geographical details paint a vivid portrait for the reader. I could just “see” the mountains. For lovers of historical fiction this is a Must Read!

[Teresa Coles · Rating 5 out of 5]

So much has been written about the Civil War, and the Appalachian people are well known for their storytelling tradition. Yet That Which Binds Us reaches well beyond these standard bearers and carves out its own position of historical fiction. Cathy Rigg combines intense historical research that brings readers front and center to the moment with language that is both lyrical and transcendent, placing us within the hearts of the characters and the landscape that is the beating heart of this novel.

Through the author’s loving craftsmanship, That Which Binds Us once again reminds us that regardless of our circumstances or place in history we are all human, and we experience in equal measure the intricate dimensions of love: joy, loss, forgiveness and redemption. You will be swept away by this tale.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was one of the most heartbreakingly beautiful historical fiction stories I have ever read. The story takes place in Southwest Virginia immediately prior to, during, and following the civil war. The author was inspired by real people from this area during the time the book takes place. I think it can be difficult to navigate the civil war and the issue of slavery with the sensitivity it deserves while remaining historically accurate in literature, and I think author does this well. She does a masterful job weaving tales of change, love, and tragedy throughout the story while giving readers an ultimately hopeful ending. I think she captured so much of what makes the Appalachian people so unique; their fortitude and strength, and their love and devotion to their families and the land. 5⭐️

[Lucille Guarino · Rating 5 out of 5]

Through memorable characters and the native Appalachian dialect, author Rigg vividly brought Civil War Virginia in the 1860s to life for me. The historical accuracy and nuances she conveyed were extraordinary, fully immersing me in the era that marked the beginning of our indivisible country. I also appreciated hearing from five distinct characters and getting their perspectives. Elizabeth, though, was the character I found most fascinating—when she sneakily went to see her Uncle Ruck, accused of murder, then witnessed his hanging. When she had to assist the doctor with a bloodletting procedure to save her father's life. She possessed a relentless spirit and never gave up. A twisty, secret-filled novel, That Which Binds Us is an exemplary historical fiction that is impossible to put down once you start it.

[adele · Rating 5 out of 5]

This isn't the sort of book I'd normally read — civil war southern historical fiction, with a lack of diverse characters — but it was so well written, I can't deny that the story and characters touched me deeply.

The novel is clearly very well-crafted, with a strong sense of control over language, structure, and historical detail, and I especially admired how thoughtfully it engages with multiple religious traditions and real historical figures. It’s the kind of book I respect for its technical and intellectual achievements, even if it wasn’t one that fully clicked with my personal tastes, and I can absolutely see how it would be a powerful and rewarding read for others, particularly those drawn to historically grounded fiction that thoughtfully explores questions of love, war, faith, morality, and human connection.

[Bee · Rating 4 out of 5]

That Which Binds Us vividly captures the feel of Appalachia, from the people to the land, as told from the perspectives of five very different characters brought together during the turmoil and devastation of the Civil War. Irish immigrant Patrick, liberal-minded schoolteacher Marilee, banjo playing Ben, strong-willed dreamer Elizabeth, and Red Hopkins, Freemason and general wise old soul — their stories weave in and around each other in the mountains of Virginia. Part love story, part reflection of the effect a brutal war had on the American south, this mildly faith-based historical novel is an engaging read.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for the opportunity to read and review this book.

[Leslie · Rating 5 out of 5]

That Which Binds Us is an excellent historical fiction novel that is very well written and researched. While there are many fine novels set in Civil War times, I have not run across many that take place in the remote areas of the Appalachian Mountains. Detailed descriptions of the mountains and landscape made me feel like I was right there in that beautiful setting, almost as if it was a sixth main character. The character development was intriguing, both the main characters and side characters such as the colorful Abijah Alley, who I was amazed to find was a real person. Even Edgar Allen Poe makes an appearance! I love when historical fiction encourages me to learn more by researching real people and places as this novel did. Highly recommend!!

[Heather R. · Rating 5 out of 5]

There is so much that Cathy Rigg knocks out of the park--setting, voice, ache of the human heart. I felt as if I time traveled to the late 1860s, sat on a peaceful riverbank in southwest Virginia, and listened to a heart wrenching tale of love and war from 5 different characters. Most transportive were the voices of Elizabeth and Mister Red with their authentic southern Appalachian dialogue, word choice, and cadence. The war-time letters from Ben Grubbs, filled with extensive, fascinating battlefield history, were rendered all the more captivating with his yearning for Elizabeth and home. Riggs nails the emotional weight, understated in just the right way. I look forward to reading more from this poetic author whose love for her native home rises sweetly from every page.