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The Creek, The Crone, and the Crow
Not yet published
Expected 24 Mar 26An outsider to the Carolina hills inherits a gift that could change everything for her beloved village on the verge of dying out, from an author of whom NPR said writes "with a deep knowledge of the enduring myths of Appalachia...vividly portraying real people and sorrows."
Welcome to Baines Creek, a town hidden deep in Appalachia, where one of the last one-room schoolhouses in America is on the brink of closing. It's summer 1980, and Kate Shaw has lived in Baines Creek for ten years. A skeptic by heart, she rejects superstition and the belief in Appalachian folklore, much to the chagrin of local legend Birdie Rocas, a lively and reclusive witch with a trove of secrets. Yet when Birdie dies and leaves Kate her collection of handmade books and a trunk of illuminated manuscripts and journals, Kate is thrown into world of things she doesn't understand. Enter Lydia Brown, a psychic with a curious birthmark whose visions stopped the day her parents died. Grief-stricken, without her gift, and in need of spiritual guidance, she travels to Appalachia in search of Birdie and the answers she might provide.
The third novel by acclaimed author Leah Weiss, The Creek, The Crone, and the Crow is the tale of a powerful crone, two women cut from the cloth of loss, and a secret sisterhood of empowerment that may be the key to healing them all.
Welcome to Baines Creek, a town hidden deep in Appalachia, where one of the last one-room schoolhouses in America is on the brink of closing. It's summer 1980, and Kate Shaw has lived in Baines Creek for ten years. A skeptic by heart, she rejects superstition and the belief in Appalachian folklore, much to the chagrin of local legend Birdie Rocas, a lively and reclusive witch with a trove of secrets. Yet when Birdie dies and leaves Kate her collection of handmade books and a trunk of illuminated manuscripts and journals, Kate is thrown into world of things she doesn't understand. Enter Lydia Brown, a psychic with a curious birthmark whose visions stopped the day her parents died. Grief-stricken, without her gift, and in need of spiritual guidance, she travels to Appalachia in search of Birdie and the answers she might provide.
The third novel by acclaimed author Leah Weiss, The Creek, The Crone, and the Crow is the tale of a powerful crone, two women cut from the cloth of loss, and a secret sisterhood of empowerment that may be the key to healing them all.
304 pages, Paperback
Expected publication March 24, 2026
6469 people want to read
About the author
Leah Weiss
5 books737 followersCome visit me at LeahWeiss.com where you can subscribe to my CREEKRISE author news. You'll also find a longer version of my official bio:
Leah Weiss is a bestselling author born in eastern North Carolina and raised in the foothills of Virginia. She retired in 2015 from a 24-year career as an Executive Assistant at Virginia Episcopal School and published her debut novel, IF THE CREEK DON’T RISE in August, 2017; it has sold over 100,000 copies. ALL THE LITTLE HOPES will be released in July 2021. It is a southern story of friendship forged by books and bees, when the timeless troubles of growing up meet the murky shadows of WWII. Leah writes full time, enjoys meeting with book clubs, and speaking about writing and publishing later in life, after retirement.
Leah Weiss is a bestselling author born in eastern North Carolina and raised in the foothills of Virginia. She retired in 2015 from a 24-year career as an Executive Assistant at Virginia Episcopal School and published her debut novel, IF THE CREEK DON’T RISE in August, 2017; it has sold over 100,000 copies. ALL THE LITTLE HOPES will be released in July 2021. It is a southern story of friendship forged by books and bees, when the timeless troubles of growing up meet the murky shadows of WWII. Leah writes full time, enjoys meeting with book clubs, and speaking about writing and publishing later in life, after retirement.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
November 26, 2025
Atmospheric, gripping, mesmerizing and hard to put down! Leah Weiss delivered once again with The Creek, The Crone, and the Crow! I loved the setting, the characters, the folklore, and emphasis on the strength of women. I enjoyed how this book had some mystery, some empowerment, some belief, some disbelief, and some secrets. I was drawn in by Leah Weiss's wonderful writing, the setting, and the use of local folklore.
Baines Creek, Appalachia
It's the 1980's and the last one room classroom in America is going to close. Birdie Rocas is a reclusive witch and holder of local folklore and secrets. Kate Shaw is the teacher at the school that is closing, and Lydia Brown is a psychic who lost her power but has an unusual birthmark. All three of these women play a part in this richly detailed book. I enjoyed the emphasis on the women, their strengths, and how each was the keeper of knowledge and secrets. Each had her own strength and the author showed how women often carry the past, the path to healing, and the stories of where they come from.
Wonderfully written, captivating, thought provoking, and atmospheric.
*A Witches Words buddy read with Carolyn. Please read her review as well to get her thoughts on The Creek, The Crone, and the Crow.
Thank you to SOURCEBOOKS Landmark | Sourcebooks Landmark and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖
Baines Creek, Appalachia
It's the 1980's and the last one room classroom in America is going to close. Birdie Rocas is a reclusive witch and holder of local folklore and secrets. Kate Shaw is the teacher at the school that is closing, and Lydia Brown is a psychic who lost her power but has an unusual birthmark. All three of these women play a part in this richly detailed book. I enjoyed the emphasis on the women, their strengths, and how each was the keeper of knowledge and secrets. Each had her own strength and the author showed how women often carry the past, the path to healing, and the stories of where they come from.
Wonderfully written, captivating, thought provoking, and atmospheric.
*A Witches Words buddy read with Carolyn. Please read her review as well to get her thoughts on The Creek, The Crone, and the Crow.
Thank you to SOURCEBOOKS Landmark | Sourcebooks Landmark and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖
January 12, 2026
If the Creek Don't Rise was one of my favorites books of 2017. I was excited to have the opportunity to return to Baines Creek, NC and meet again some of characters I fell for in this new novel. Ten years has passed and changes are coming to this remote town in Appalachia, a place where folklore, healing, seeing and witchery permeate the culture. The one room school house is being closed; a beloved community member dies ; a young girl goes missing. The narrative alternates between Kate Shaw, the teacher who has brought literacy, friendship and caring to Baines Creek and a new character Lydia Brown, who has lost her gift of seeing and goes to Baines Creek seeking the counsel of Birdie, the reclusive town healer, capable of magic.
You definitely need the capability of suspending your disbelief and while I could do that with this story of healers, folklore, witchery and ghosts to a point, the quest to discover Birdie’s powers and secrets of the past went just way too far in the past. It felt convoluted and the details of it all lost me . Having said that, I wanted to know what would happen to Kate. I loved knowing more about Sadie Blue’s life after the traumas of her young life in the first book, and it was enlightening once again to learn about the remote community life in Appalachia. 3.5 rounded up because I loved revisiting Baines Creek.
I received a copy of this book from Sourcebooks Landmark through NetGalley.
You definitely need the capability of suspending your disbelief and while I could do that with this story of healers, folklore, witchery and ghosts to a point, the quest to discover Birdie’s powers and secrets of the past went just way too far in the past. It felt convoluted and the details of it all lost me . Having said that, I wanted to know what would happen to Kate. I loved knowing more about Sadie Blue’s life after the traumas of her young life in the first book, and it was enlightening once again to learn about the remote community life in Appalachia. 3.5 rounded up because I loved revisiting Baines Creek.
I received a copy of this book from Sourcebooks Landmark through NetGalley.
September 29, 2025
This novel is an absolute treasure to read—one that lingers with you long after you’ve turned the final page. It carries a kind of weight, but not in a burdensome sense. Instead, it’s the powerful, resonant weight of generations of women whose stories, struggles, and strengths echo through time. The narrative beautifully captures how women so often carry the legacies of those who came before us, weaving them into their own lives in ways both seen and unseen.
What makes this book truly special is the way it grounds that theme in the richness of Appalachian history and lore. The setting is more than just a backdrop; it breathes life into the story, giving it texture and authenticity. Folklore, traditions, and the deep ties to the land all create a world that feels both rooted in the past and urgent in the present.
At the heart of it all are three women whose lives intertwine in ways I didn’t expect. Each carries her own story, her own pain, her own strength, yet together their journeys form something far greater. The intersections of their lives are moving, surprising, and deeply human.
This is the kind of book that reminds you of the resilience of women, the importance of remembering where we come from, and the bonds that tie us across time and experience. It is layered, lyrical, and powerful—an unforgettable read that I wholeheartedly recommend.
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway. This did not reflect my review.
What makes this book truly special is the way it grounds that theme in the richness of Appalachian history and lore. The setting is more than just a backdrop; it breathes life into the story, giving it texture and authenticity. Folklore, traditions, and the deep ties to the land all create a world that feels both rooted in the past and urgent in the present.
At the heart of it all are three women whose lives intertwine in ways I didn’t expect. Each carries her own story, her own pain, her own strength, yet together their journeys form something far greater. The intersections of their lives are moving, surprising, and deeply human.
This is the kind of book that reminds you of the resilience of women, the importance of remembering where we come from, and the bonds that tie us across time and experience. It is layered, lyrical, and powerful—an unforgettable read that I wholeheartedly recommend.
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway. This did not reflect my review.
December 26, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book.
Sadly, dnf at 50%
This book was haunting and atmospheric and I was so immersed and so hooked until I wasn't. I even got spoked and had to tuck myself underneath a blanket.
BUT, whilst the vibe is edible, halfway through there's... Not much of a plot and I'm growing bored of just inhaling the world. And i found myself starting to skim pages, so I knew my time to part with this book has come.
Sadly, dnf at 50%
This book was haunting and atmospheric and I was so immersed and so hooked until I wasn't. I even got spoked and had to tuck myself underneath a blanket.
BUT, whilst the vibe is edible, halfway through there's... Not much of a plot and I'm growing bored of just inhaling the world. And i found myself starting to skim pages, so I knew my time to part with this book has come.
September 29, 2025
4.5
This is a delightful read. It is heavy in a wonderful way—women carry the weight of the women who come before us and this story beautifully illustrates that. Rich in Appalachian history and lore, the lives of three women intersect in surprising ways.
Thank you to Sourcebooks and Goodreads Giveaways for sending this Advance Reader’s Copy.
This is a delightful read. It is heavy in a wonderful way—women carry the weight of the women who come before us and this story beautifully illustrates that. Rich in Appalachian history and lore, the lives of three women intersect in surprising ways.
Thank you to Sourcebooks and Goodreads Giveaways for sending this Advance Reader’s Copy.
Want to read
October 29, 2025Thank You, Donna for mentioning this one. I really love this Author. Do I need another Book is always the question. I had agreed, no more, since have 50 ARC’s, but…..this one well I want it.
Probably, will put in for.
🩷 🩷 🩷 📚 📚 📚
Probably, will put in for.
🩷 🩷 🩷 📚 📚 📚
November 5, 2025
Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for the digital ARC. Opinions are my own.
As I got a little past the 90% mark, my eyes started to tear, and by the time I finished the book, big, fat tears were spilling over. When I read “If the Creek Don’t Rise,” a few years ago I fell in love with Birdie, Sadie Blue, and Kate. My review then stated I hoped to meet these people again in another book - and here they are. I’m still not quite ready to let them go.
While the book does contain several mysteries, what it really addressed for me are the other mysteries - the life mysteries of women’s knowing. This story is also filled with the special way of life of deep Appalachia, which is fascinating to me. Leah Weiss ties it all together with characters full of heart, and a highly readable and compelling story. What a voice.
It gives me great pleasure to learn that the author didn’t start to write till she was in her 70s. Maybe that’s her part of the knowing.
As I got a little past the 90% mark, my eyes started to tear, and by the time I finished the book, big, fat tears were spilling over. When I read “If the Creek Don’t Rise,” a few years ago I fell in love with Birdie, Sadie Blue, and Kate. My review then stated I hoped to meet these people again in another book - and here they are. I’m still not quite ready to let them go.
While the book does contain several mysteries, what it really addressed for me are the other mysteries - the life mysteries of women’s knowing. This story is also filled with the special way of life of deep Appalachia, which is fascinating to me. Leah Weiss ties it all together with characters full of heart, and a highly readable and compelling story. What a voice.
It gives me great pleasure to learn that the author didn’t start to write till she was in her 70s. Maybe that’s her part of the knowing.
November 24, 2025
Solid 4.5 or 4.75.
I really enjoyed this book. I loved the mix of history, mystery, and Appalachian folklore, especially because some of the folklore tied into things I’ve actually seen or heard living in the southeastern US. Those little familiar details made the story feel extra intriguing.
I also loved the witchy vibes throughout the book and the presence of the crow companion Samuel— it added to the atmosphere.
Most of all, the women in this book were incredible. Strong, brave, brilliant, and bold! love.
I really enjoyed this book. I loved the mix of history, mystery, and Appalachian folklore, especially because some of the folklore tied into things I’ve actually seen or heard living in the southeastern US. Those little familiar details made the story feel extra intriguing.
I also loved the witchy vibes throughout the book and the presence of the crow companion Samuel— it added to the atmosphere.
Most of all, the women in this book were incredible. Strong, brave, brilliant, and bold! love.
December 3, 2025
This is a captivating tale of strong women tasked with keeping the knowledge passed down by past generations of women. Birdie Rocas is the ancient crone of the title, a wise woman skilled in medicines and healing, the last of a long line of ‘Keepers’ of the lore. The tale is alternatively narrated by Kate, a teacher, sceptical and pragmatic and Lydia, a librarian with an interest in folklore and witchcraft. When they meet, they are both grieving, Lydia for her husband who died suddenly and Kate for the closure of the one room schoolhouse where she has been teaching.
Lydia and Kate first meet when Kate takes Lydia to talk to Birdie about an article she is writing for a folklore magazine. Although Birdie refuses to talk to her, their brief meeting will have important repercussions for both Kate and Lydia and shape the direction of their future lives.
I loved the setting of the tiny town of Baines Creek in Appalachia, where the old beliefs and superstitions still abound, even in 1980. The setting of the hills and rugged landscape not only makes the tale atmospheric but also provides a background steeped in folklore and ancient knowledge.
Having not read If the Creek Don't Rise, I hadn't previously met Birdie or Kate and initially found I had to concentrate to differentiate Kate and Lydia’s narratives. However, their individual voices soon came through, particularly by the second half of the novel. They are both strong and resilient women with their individual attributes making for a good partnership. The mysteries they uncover together are deep and profound and the legacy left by Birdie and those who came before her deeply moving.
With thanks to Sourcebooks Landmark for a copy to read via Netgalley
This was an enjoyable buddy read with Debra from Witches Words
Lydia and Kate first meet when Kate takes Lydia to talk to Birdie about an article she is writing for a folklore magazine. Although Birdie refuses to talk to her, their brief meeting will have important repercussions for both Kate and Lydia and shape the direction of their future lives.
I loved the setting of the tiny town of Baines Creek in Appalachia, where the old beliefs and superstitions still abound, even in 1980. The setting of the hills and rugged landscape not only makes the tale atmospheric but also provides a background steeped in folklore and ancient knowledge.
Having not read If the Creek Don't Rise, I hadn't previously met Birdie or Kate and initially found I had to concentrate to differentiate Kate and Lydia’s narratives. However, their individual voices soon came through, particularly by the second half of the novel. They are both strong and resilient women with their individual attributes making for a good partnership. The mysteries they uncover together are deep and profound and the legacy left by Birdie and those who came before her deeply moving.
With thanks to Sourcebooks Landmark for a copy to read via Netgalley
This was an enjoyable buddy read with Debra from Witches Words
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4 Appalachian Stars
I read Leah Weiss’ book “If the Creek Don’t Rise” back in 2017, and I loved it! Somehow, I missed her second book, “All the Little Hopes,” so I will be going back to read it, as there are characters from both books in this one. I really wanted a sequel to Creek, and here it is!
We are back in isolated Baines Creek with Sadie Blue, Birdie Rocas, and Kate Shaw, the teacher for the last 10 years at one of the last one-room schoolhouses in North Carolina. Sadly, state officials have decided to close the school, forcing the children to go “down the mountain” to a larger school. This means that Kate is out of a job and changes are coming. The residents of the mountain town are not pleased.
We also have Lydia Brown, a researcher and writer, who is lost after the loss of her husband. She’s also a psychic, hoping to find some answers over the summer. She’s joined by her niece Gus, who also has a gift.
Birdie Rocas is the local healer, some call her a witch, who has a pet crow. Lydia wants to write a story about her but is turned away.
There are sad deaths, moonshine stills, hidden tunnels, mysterious lights, a missing child, lots of folklore, and superstition. Filled with strong female characters, I loved this return to Appalachia and these characters.
My thanks to Sourcebooks Landmark for the opportunity to read and honestly review this book. Scheduled to release on 3.24.2026.
I read Leah Weiss’ book “If the Creek Don’t Rise” back in 2017, and I loved it! Somehow, I missed her second book, “All the Little Hopes,” so I will be going back to read it, as there are characters from both books in this one. I really wanted a sequel to Creek, and here it is!
We are back in isolated Baines Creek with Sadie Blue, Birdie Rocas, and Kate Shaw, the teacher for the last 10 years at one of the last one-room schoolhouses in North Carolina. Sadly, state officials have decided to close the school, forcing the children to go “down the mountain” to a larger school. This means that Kate is out of a job and changes are coming. The residents of the mountain town are not pleased.
We also have Lydia Brown, a researcher and writer, who is lost after the loss of her husband. She’s also a psychic, hoping to find some answers over the summer. She’s joined by her niece Gus, who also has a gift.
Birdie Rocas is the local healer, some call her a witch, who has a pet crow. Lydia wants to write a story about her but is turned away.
There are sad deaths, moonshine stills, hidden tunnels, mysterious lights, a missing child, lots of folklore, and superstition. Filled with strong female characters, I loved this return to Appalachia and these characters.
My thanks to Sourcebooks Landmark for the opportunity to read and honestly review this book. Scheduled to release on 3.24.2026.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This may have been set in Baines Creek where “If the Creek Don’t Rise” was set, but it fell far short of that lovely book.
Alternating chapters between first person accounts of Kate and Lydia (both outsiders) was bad enough, but sadly there was even worse. We had animals, a male dog named Rachel and a female cat named Uncle. How confusing. There were also lots of inhabitants strolling through the pages of this tale – so many it was hard to keep track of just who was who – or who used to be who – or who had changed their name from this to that.
As the plot continued, it got more and more bizarre and more and more unbelievable until it was simply a compendium of WOKE agendas! We had discussion of abortion being commonplace in the 17 hundreds or maybe 1800s (what did that have to do with the story?). Then we find out that our main character, Lydia, and the researcher she has brought in are Lesbian which brings in a whole different train into the story line. That, in no way, advances the original plot.
I’m not sure what this book was supposed to be about. It was quite a disappointment after “If the Creek Don’t Rise.”
I appreciate this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. I wish Weiss well as I certainly enjoyed If the Creek Don’t Rise.
Alternating chapters between first person accounts of Kate and Lydia (both outsiders) was bad enough, but sadly there was even worse. We had animals, a male dog named Rachel and a female cat named Uncle. How confusing. There were also lots of inhabitants strolling through the pages of this tale – so many it was hard to keep track of just who was who – or who used to be who – or who had changed their name from this to that.
As the plot continued, it got more and more bizarre and more and more unbelievable until it was simply a compendium of WOKE agendas! We had discussion of abortion being commonplace in the 17 hundreds or maybe 1800s (what did that have to do with the story?). Then we find out that our main character, Lydia, and the researcher she has brought in are Lesbian which brings in a whole different train into the story line. That, in no way, advances the original plot.
I’m not sure what this book was supposed to be about. It was quite a disappointment after “If the Creek Don’t Rise.”
I appreciate this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. I wish Weiss well as I certainly enjoyed If the Creek Don’t Rise.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book was an unexpected delight, aligning with more than a dozen of my favourite literary themes: strong female characters, witches, healers, folklore, and the supernatural. I approached it with little expectation, as the title seemed off. Only later did I realise it was a continuation and blend of two of Weiss’ previous acclaimed works. With curiosity in hand, I dove in and was thoroughly enchanted by the experience.
Leah Weiss is a great storyteller. The way she brought this together in an alluring, witchy, folklore-infused tale about loss, legacy, and women rediscovering their inner power is commendable. The setting was rich, female-centric, and blurred the line between reality and the supernatural. Through the POVs of both a believer and a non-believer, Weiss lets the reader draw their own conclusions. By the end, you would likely believe most of it, or at least I did.
Coming to what didn't work for me was the pacing. Some chapters were quite fast-paced, while some felt really slow. Also, some chapters were unusually short compared to others, which hindered my rhythm.
I will definitely be checking out the other two works in this series as soon as I can.
Thanks to Sourcebooks Landmark and Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Publication Date: March 24th, 2026.
3.75/5🌟.
Leah Weiss is a great storyteller. The way she brought this together in an alluring, witchy, folklore-infused tale about loss, legacy, and women rediscovering their inner power is commendable. The setting was rich, female-centric, and blurred the line between reality and the supernatural. Through the POVs of both a believer and a non-believer, Weiss lets the reader draw their own conclusions. By the end, you would likely believe most of it, or at least I did.
Coming to what didn't work for me was the pacing. Some chapters were quite fast-paced, while some felt really slow. Also, some chapters were unusually short compared to others, which hindered my rhythm.
I will definitely be checking out the other two works in this series as soon as I can.
Thanks to Sourcebooks Landmark and Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Publication Date: March 24th, 2026.
3.75/5🌟.
November 27, 2025
Thank you to Net Galley for the Advanced Reader Copy of The Creek, the Crone and The Crow by Leah Weiss. I love historical novels that are set in Appalachia, and this is my third novel by this author. In this novel we revisit some of the characters in If the Creek Don’t Rise and I wish I had reread it as it would have added depth to the story. This novel is a mix of mystery and folklore, with plenty of heart thrown in. One of the best things about Weiss’s writing is her characters. The Crone (Birdie) is especially memorable—she’s tough, wise, and not afraid to speak her mind. The author does a great job with the setting, making you feel like you’re right there in the woods and mountains. Each chapter flips between two main characters and I found that this to be a bit confusing at times as I often resumed reading after leaving the book in mid-chapter. I would have to reference back to which character was telling the story. While this technique gives us insight into the unique perspectives of Lydia and Kate, I found the frequent shifts to be disorienting. However, I did enjoy how the relationship between these two women evolved. Overall, this was a really enjoyable read but my favorite Leah Weiss novel is still All the Little Hopes.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Kate teaches at a one-room school somewhere in Appalachia. Her school is about to be shut down and students will be bussed from the remote settlement to a town school. Kate knows many of these students will simply vanish when it comes time to go to school. Kate's neighbor, Birdie, is the crone in this story, the keeper of ancient knowledge, the healer. She keeps notebook after notebook, writing in them all sorts of local lore, healing remedies, as well as some of the activities of her neighbors. Lydia, a librarian and writer of folklore, comes to the community to try to interview Birdie and learn firsthand about the community. Birdie shuts her out.
Following a tragedy, Kate finds herself the owner of stacks and stacks of Birdie's notebooks. What to do with them? What to make of the information found in those notebooks? Kate and Lydia find themselves working together to solve, and to save, the folklore and the ancient knowledge. They also work to solve what turns out to be an even greater puzzle.
Kate and Lydia are both grieving, but for different reasons; they are able to turn their grief into strength and resilience as they draw Birdie's knowledge into themselves.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark, in exchange for a review.
Following a tragedy, Kate finds herself the owner of stacks and stacks of Birdie's notebooks. What to do with them? What to make of the information found in those notebooks? Kate and Lydia find themselves working together to solve, and to save, the folklore and the ancient knowledge. They also work to solve what turns out to be an even greater puzzle.
Kate and Lydia are both grieving, but for different reasons; they are able to turn their grief into strength and resilience as they draw Birdie's knowledge into themselves.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark, in exchange for a review.
November 27, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for the advanced copy of The Creek, the Crone, and the Crow by Leah Weiss.
Weiss’s writing is the standout here—lush, atmospheric, and rooted deeply in Appalachian folklore. She brings Baines Creek to life with vivid detail, weaving mystery, superstition, and women’s wisdom into a story that feels like an oral tale passed down through generations. Birdie Rocas is especially unforgettable, and the interplay between her legacy, the closing schoolhouse, and the town’s hidden lore is beautifully handled.
The shifting perspectives between Kate and Lydia occasionally felt disorienting, but they offer a rich, layered view into the women at the heart of the story. The pacing is steady, immersive, and filled with emotional depth, making the unraveling of secrets feel both intimate and haunting.
A compelling, atmospheric read with gorgeous writing and characters full of grit and heart.
All opinions are my own.
Weiss’s writing is the standout here—lush, atmospheric, and rooted deeply in Appalachian folklore. She brings Baines Creek to life with vivid detail, weaving mystery, superstition, and women’s wisdom into a story that feels like an oral tale passed down through generations. Birdie Rocas is especially unforgettable, and the interplay between her legacy, the closing schoolhouse, and the town’s hidden lore is beautifully handled.
The shifting perspectives between Kate and Lydia occasionally felt disorienting, but they offer a rich, layered view into the women at the heart of the story. The pacing is steady, immersive, and filled with emotional depth, making the unraveling of secrets feel both intimate and haunting.
A compelling, atmospheric read with gorgeous writing and characters full of grit and heart.
All opinions are my own.
December 1, 2025
The Creek, the Crone, and the Crow is another beautifully crafted Appalachian tale from Leah Weiss, blending folklore, history, and deeply human storytelling. The novel follows Kate, a devoted schoolteacher in a disappearing one-room schoolhouse, and Lydia, a grieving archivist who feels inexplicably connected to an elderly woman named Birdie. As their lives intertwine, they uncover long-hidden stories, generational secrets, and the power of women who preserve memory when the world tries to forget it.
Weiss excels at atmosphere: the mountains feel alive, the folklore adds rich texture, and the themes of grief, healing, and cultural preservation resonate long after the closing pages. Fans of character-driven fiction with touches of mystery and Appalachian magic will absolutely love this one. A quiet, haunting, and ultimately hopeful novel.
Thank you to Sourcebooks Landmark for the opportunity to read this early.
Weiss excels at atmosphere: the mountains feel alive, the folklore adds rich texture, and the themes of grief, healing, and cultural preservation resonate long after the closing pages. Fans of character-driven fiction with touches of mystery and Appalachian magic will absolutely love this one. A quiet, haunting, and ultimately hopeful novel.
Thank you to Sourcebooks Landmark for the opportunity to read this early.
November 8, 2025
I cannot get enough of novels about the women of Appalachia. They are set apart for their raw strength, wisdom and beauty. Weiss's new novel focuses on the aspect of the bonds shared by women and secrets they harbor to survive in a world not always designed for them. Loved the aspect of creating a sequel of sorts for characters in If The Creek Don't Rise. (Weiss excellent debut) There were just a few loose ends that didnt come together that well in the end, and at times I felt the author's views/bias speaking through the characters. I still highly recommend, especially for fans of Appalachian fiction or Weiss's writing. #thecreekthecroneandthecrow #leahweiss #netgalley #goodreads
November 20, 2025
This had some interesting aspects of folklore and Appalachia. It was a bit of a slow burn, and I did lose interest at times. This is the first book I’ve read by this author and I would be interested in checking out some previous works. The writing was well done and the characters felt well developed. There were a few throughlines that could’ve become confusing, but it was done in a way that it was easy to follow along. I would recommend it if you’re interested in folklore and Appalachia.
Thank you, NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for allowing me to read this book early. The opinion in this review is my own.
Thank you, NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for allowing me to read this book early. The opinion in this review is my own.
November 30, 2025
I loved the setting of Appalachia. I even liked some of the characters.
However the plot was much too thin.
I kept reading about this big mystery and I kept thinking what was the mystery? Was it the runaway child? The witch? How the keepers with the hand symbols?
I wasn't sure if this was one book or 3 books smoshed all together.
The characters were flat and not flushed out. I wished that the author had focused upon one thing, like the school closing instead of 15 other things that this book tried doing.
It was an easy read, but one that was without depth.
Thank you to netgalley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for this honest review.
However the plot was much too thin.
I kept reading about this big mystery and I kept thinking what was the mystery? Was it the runaway child? The witch? How the keepers with the hand symbols?
I wasn't sure if this was one book or 3 books smoshed all together.
The characters were flat and not flushed out. I wished that the author had focused upon one thing, like the school closing instead of 15 other things that this book tried doing.
It was an easy read, but one that was without depth.
Thank you to netgalley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for this honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I received an advanced copy in exchange for my honest opinions:
I really wanted to like this book as the description got my attention from the first time I read it. However, the character hopping in chapters was something that I just could not keep track of. With each new chapter I began to feel confused about the story and where it was going. It was hard to keep the timeline straight as well, as dates and years seem to be thrown out willy nilly. As much as I wanted to keep going I had to just walk away because it was a struggle to continue trying to read.
I really wanted to like this book as the description got my attention from the first time I read it. However, the character hopping in chapters was something that I just could not keep track of. With each new chapter I began to feel confused about the story and where it was going. It was hard to keep the timeline straight as well, as dates and years seem to be thrown out willy nilly. As much as I wanted to keep going I had to just walk away because it was a struggle to continue trying to read.
February 9, 2026
This was such a different book from what I usually read. What an intriguing story! I don’t really believe in mystical things, but this book gave me some insight into how these things could be true. We live alongside people we think we know, but they are more complex and have parts of their lives that we aren’t privy to. The book also makes it clear that we are all different, but made from the same cloth.
November 8, 2025
This has elements of greatness but I got lost in the details. Too many ancillary characters that didn't come alive for me. I read If the Creek Don't Rise and couldn't recall it enough to make the connections to this book as a sequel of sorts. I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was actually a 4.5 stars read for me. Beautifully written, captivating and overall a great story! Natural magic, folklore, history, the struggles of living deep in the Appalachian mountains, all wrapped in a beautiful story about about belief and strong women.
November 7, 2025
Review to come.
November 23, 2025
Another stellar book by Leah Weiss.
November 23, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley for ecopy for my Kindle.
Appalachian folklore at its best!
Appalachian folklore at its best!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
“‘Yes, but how can that be? Ghosts aren’t real. Or at least I don’t believe in them.’
‘Maybe they believe in you,’ Theresa says, then continues.”
I have absolutely no idea how this book ended up on my tbr, but I’m so glad it did.
Kate Shaw is a teacher in Baines Creek. Her one room schoolhouse is being closed and the children are being shuttled to a nearby regional school. Kate has spent ten years in this tiny Appalachian town and still feels like an outsider.
Lydia Brown is a researcher and a recent widow. As a child she had prophetic dreams but those have long since left her, though the stories of the healers and witches of Appalachia fascinate her. It is through one such healer, Birdie Rivas, that the two women meet.
This was honestly just a beautiful story about women and friendship and the difficulties of being a woman in the 1980s. I think I may need to go back and read Weiss’ first two novels, just because I’d like to visit all these characters again.
‘Maybe they believe in you,’ Theresa says, then continues.”
I have absolutely no idea how this book ended up on my tbr, but I’m so glad it did.
Kate Shaw is a teacher in Baines Creek. Her one room schoolhouse is being closed and the children are being shuttled to a nearby regional school. Kate has spent ten years in this tiny Appalachian town and still feels like an outsider.
Lydia Brown is a researcher and a recent widow. As a child she had prophetic dreams but those have long since left her, though the stories of the healers and witches of Appalachia fascinate her. It is through one such healer, Birdie Rivas, that the two women meet.
This was honestly just a beautiful story about women and friendship and the difficulties of being a woman in the 1980s. I think I may need to go back and read Weiss’ first two novels, just because I’d like to visit all these characters again.
November 25, 2025
This is a mystical, magical tale set deep in Appalachia. A small one room school house on the verge of closing down, a legendary witch, and a psychic outsider with mysterious connections to local lore all come together in this beautiful story. Kate isn’t sure what she’s going to do when she receives notice that the schoolhouse will be closing down, with the handful of her students being bussed to the closest public school. Baines Creek has been her home for the last decade. Matters are further complicated when Birdie Rocas, the local witch, dies. Birdie has left her entire collection of journals and manuscripts to Kate. It’s a huge responsibility that leaves Kate puzzled. When Lydia Brown shows up, it seems to be the answer to Kate’s question. Between the two of them, as well as some other local residents, they dig deep into the mystery that was Birdie Rocas. Along the way, they find connections they didn’t realize existed. This is a great story, full of rich details about the legends and atmosphere of the Appalachian Mountains. The ending felt a bit rushed to me, but other than that it was a great story.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was a thought-provoking read about female resilience during the 1980s. In this story taken place in Baines Creek, Appalachia, Weiss did a great job weaving local folklore into a story about the strength of women. The story centers around two women: Kate and Lydia. Kate was a teacher at a school that faced closing while Lydia, a librarian, was well-versed in folklore, mystics, and witchcraft. This book had heart and mysterious witchy vibes. The character development for both women was the key highlight of this book.
Thank you Leah Weiss, Sourcebooks Landmark, and NetGalley for this ARC!
3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
Thank you Leah Weiss, Sourcebooks Landmark, and NetGalley for this ARC!
3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Leah Weiss has the ability to transport you right into the mountains of Western North Carolina. The Creek, The Crone and The Crow marks the return of Kate Shaw, Birdie Rocas, Sadie Blue and the rest of the Blaine’s Creek community. But it can easily work as a stand-alone.
Kate has been teaching in the Blaine Creek one room schoolhouse for ten years when the community learns it’s to be closed and the children sent down the mountain. The community includes Birdie, a witch/healer, whom Kate has an uneasy relationship with. When Birdie dies, Kate is shocked to learn she’s been left all of Birdie’s handwritten books. Kate elicits help from Lydia, a folklorist who has a touch of the psychic as well. The characters are all beautifully rendered. The book’s narration switches between Kate and Lydia.
The book covers magical/mystical events in a way that will have you believing. I’ve always had an interest in folklore and this weaves the stories in perfectly. I loved the clever way that Weiss included all sorts of fun facts, whether about sin-eaters, shape-shifters, Wolpertingers, moonshine stills or even medieval reading glasses without ever slowing down the story.
The writing is beautiful and I was highlighting passages. One of my favorites: “Home is a place you belong until the person who is home is gone.” But even trivial passages caught me. “Where does she find such things? Did she make them or dye them or hire a tailor who worked for the circus? The woman doesn’t have a reticent bone in her body.”
Leah Weiss is one of the few authors who I’ve awarded five stars for each of their books.
My thanks to Netgalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for an advance copy of this book.
Kate has been teaching in the Blaine Creek one room schoolhouse for ten years when the community learns it’s to be closed and the children sent down the mountain. The community includes Birdie, a witch/healer, whom Kate has an uneasy relationship with. When Birdie dies, Kate is shocked to learn she’s been left all of Birdie’s handwritten books. Kate elicits help from Lydia, a folklorist who has a touch of the psychic as well. The characters are all beautifully rendered. The book’s narration switches between Kate and Lydia.
The book covers magical/mystical events in a way that will have you believing. I’ve always had an interest in folklore and this weaves the stories in perfectly. I loved the clever way that Weiss included all sorts of fun facts, whether about sin-eaters, shape-shifters, Wolpertingers, moonshine stills or even medieval reading glasses without ever slowing down the story.
The writing is beautiful and I was highlighting passages. One of my favorites: “Home is a place you belong until the person who is home is gone.” But even trivial passages caught me. “Where does she find such things? Did she make them or dye them or hire a tailor who worked for the circus? The woman doesn’t have a reticent bone in her body.”
Leah Weiss is one of the few authors who I’ve awarded five stars for each of their books.
My thanks to Netgalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for an advance copy of this book.
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