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The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek #3
The Mountains We Call Home
From the New York Times bestselling author of The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek comes a triumphant tale of a librarian's fight to bring literacy to the prisons of Kentucky and the underserved neighborhoods of downtown Louisville, revealing a story of fierce love, quiet strength, and the healing power of books.
When Cussy Lovett, a Packhorse Librarian famed for bringing books to the people of Appalachia, is unjustly incarcerated, she finds a new calling as a prison librarian, bringing hope to downtrodden women and voiceless city residents alike, finding a home even while separated from those she loves. A vivid portrait of mid-century Kentucky, from the hills and hollers of Appalachia to a vibrant city neighborhood on the cusp of urban renewal, The Mountains We Call Home explores the effects of criminalization and incarceration on the poor and powerless, while tracing the societal consequences of fractured family bonds.
Gritty, heartbreaking, yet infused with hope, The Mountains We Call Home is an authentic American tale and a powerful testament of strength, survival, and the magic of the written word.
When Cussy Lovett, a Packhorse Librarian famed for bringing books to the people of Appalachia, is unjustly incarcerated, she finds a new calling as a prison librarian, bringing hope to downtrodden women and voiceless city residents alike, finding a home even while separated from those she loves. A vivid portrait of mid-century Kentucky, from the hills and hollers of Appalachia to a vibrant city neighborhood on the cusp of urban renewal, The Mountains We Call Home explores the effects of criminalization and incarceration on the poor and powerless, while tracing the societal consequences of fractured family bonds.
Gritty, heartbreaking, yet infused with hope, The Mountains We Call Home is an authentic American tale and a powerful testament of strength, survival, and the magic of the written word.
384 pages, Paperback
Published April 21, 2026
808 people are currently reading
27850 people want to read
About the author
Kim Michele Richardson
15 books4,311 followersThe NEW YORK TIMES, LOS ANGELES TIMES and USA TODAY bestselling author, Kim Michele Richardson is a multiple-award winning author and has written five works of historical fiction, and a bestselling memoir.
Her critically acclaimed novel, The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek is a DOLLY PARTON RECOMMENDED READ, a Goodreads Choice award nominee, and has earned the 2020 PBS Readers Choice, 2019 LibraryReads Best Book, Indie Next, SIBA, Forbes Best Historical Novel, Book-A-Million Best Fiction, and is an Oprah's Buzziest Books pick and a Women’s National Book Association Great Group Reads selection. It was inspired by the remarkable "blue people" of Kentucky, and the fierce, brave Packhorse Librarians who used the power of literacy to overcome bigotry, hate and fear during the Great Depression. The novel is taught widely in high schools and college classrooms.
Her fifth novel, The Book Woman’s Daughter, an instant NEW YORK TIMES, USA TODAY and INDIE NATIONAL bestseller, is both a stand-alone and sequel to The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek.
Kentucky-born native, Kim Michele Richardson, lives with her family in the Bluegrass State and is the founder of Shy Rabbit, a writer's residency scholarship.
Her critically acclaimed novel, The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek is a DOLLY PARTON RECOMMENDED READ, a Goodreads Choice award nominee, and has earned the 2020 PBS Readers Choice, 2019 LibraryReads Best Book, Indie Next, SIBA, Forbes Best Historical Novel, Book-A-Million Best Fiction, and is an Oprah's Buzziest Books pick and a Women’s National Book Association Great Group Reads selection. It was inspired by the remarkable "blue people" of Kentucky, and the fierce, brave Packhorse Librarians who used the power of literacy to overcome bigotry, hate and fear during the Great Depression. The novel is taught widely in high schools and college classrooms.
Her fifth novel, The Book Woman’s Daughter, an instant NEW YORK TIMES, USA TODAY and INDIE NATIONAL bestseller, is both a stand-alone and sequel to The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek.
Kentucky-born native, Kim Michele Richardson, lives with her family in the Bluegrass State and is the founder of Shy Rabbit, a writer's residency scholarship.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 346 reviews
September 4, 2025
One of my favorite literary characters is back in this third novel of the Book Woman of Troublesome Creek series . Cussy Mary Lovett brought books and taught people to read and write and brought kindness to so many in Troublesome Creek as part of the Pack Horse Library Project. In spite of the racist treatment she received as a Blue of Kentucky , she is doing the same in this novel for women in prison reading them stories and bringing them books and with a big dose of that kindness . Imprisoned for the “crime of pertinacious heredity” , for “marrying” , for “miscegenation” . She’s a Blue and her husband isn’t . With courage, determination and with a love of reading Cussy endures . “Books: a sanctuary for my heart , “ she says . But the books she brings and stories she tells are also a healing for the souls of other inmates allowing them to connect with their loved ones.
Although, extremely sad and angering to see what Cussy endures , it’s uplifting to read this next chapter in her life where she manages with will and grace to overcome obstacles in her path. Like the first two books, this one is also a tribute to the power of literature, to the women who carried not just books , but literacy to so many . Over and above that this book delves into racism, eugenics, and poverty and at the same time the uplifting beauty of friendship and love of freedom. Those who loved the first two books will certainly be happy to meet Cussy again.
I received a copy of this from Sourcebooks through Edelweiss.
Although, extremely sad and angering to see what Cussy endures , it’s uplifting to read this next chapter in her life where she manages with will and grace to overcome obstacles in her path. Like the first two books, this one is also a tribute to the power of literature, to the women who carried not just books , but literacy to so many . Over and above that this book delves into racism, eugenics, and poverty and at the same time the uplifting beauty of friendship and love of freedom. Those who loved the first two books will certainly be happy to meet Cussy again.
I received a copy of this from Sourcebooks through Edelweiss.
February 7, 2026
This is the continuation of The Book Woman story, the third in what I never knew would become a series …
I was eager to get back to Cussy and also Kentucky.
In this one, Cussy and Jackson are incarcerated simply for marrying…as It was illegal for people of color to marry white!
The time in prison for Cussy was infuriating and scary but after a time she gets an opportunity to be the prison librarian and that position makes a path for her leave the prison.
I will not say any more about the story except that it takes an amazing turn.
Cussy is such a great character with a passion for freedom … for poor hillfolk, and in this book it was illiterate prisoners.
I do hope there will be more!
Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks for the gifted copy in exchange for my honest review!
Publish date April 21
I was eager to get back to Cussy and also Kentucky.
In this one, Cussy and Jackson are incarcerated simply for marrying…as It was illegal for people of color to marry white!
The time in prison for Cussy was infuriating and scary but after a time she gets an opportunity to be the prison librarian and that position makes a path for her leave the prison.
I will not say any more about the story except that it takes an amazing turn.
Cussy is such a great character with a passion for freedom … for poor hillfolk, and in this book it was illiterate prisoners.
I do hope there will be more!
Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks for the gifted copy in exchange for my honest review!
Publish date April 21
May 1, 2026
I am late to the game, but this is the third book in The Book Woman Of Troublesome Creek series. I promise that I am now going to go back and read books 1 and 2 because this book was stunning. I would also assure future readers that the author fills in all the gaps in the character's previous storyline, making this a good standalone or companion novel. I know that I never felt lost.
As the story picks up, Kentucky book woman, Cussy Lovett and her husband, Jackson, have both been arrested and are being sent to prison. Cussy is one of the blue-skinned people of Kentucky, and her crime is that she has married a white man. Cussy has methemoglobinemia, a blood condition, not a skin condition. In people with methemoglobinemia, the skin appears blue because the veins beneath the skin are coursing with dark blue blood. If you have a hard time picturing what Cussy looked like, then, as I did, there is a lot of information out on the internet, and I would encourage you to check it out.
I had a feeling that this book might break me, as the months of her prison incarceration went on, I felt such despair. But there was also this wave of hopefulness that was always present as I read. It's all because of Cussy. Those who have read the previous books know what I am speaking about. She is one of the best literary characters in women's fiction. I know that is a bold statement, but I am making it.
An absolute favourite of the year!
Publication Date 21/04/26
Goodreads Review 25/04/26
#TheMountainsWeCallHomeTheBookWomansLegacy #NetGalley.
As the story picks up, Kentucky book woman, Cussy Lovett and her husband, Jackson, have both been arrested and are being sent to prison. Cussy is one of the blue-skinned people of Kentucky, and her crime is that she has married a white man. Cussy has methemoglobinemia, a blood condition, not a skin condition. In people with methemoglobinemia, the skin appears blue because the veins beneath the skin are coursing with dark blue blood. If you have a hard time picturing what Cussy looked like, then, as I did, there is a lot of information out on the internet, and I would encourage you to check it out.
I had a feeling that this book might break me, as the months of her prison incarceration went on, I felt such despair. But there was also this wave of hopefulness that was always present as I read. It's all because of Cussy. Those who have read the previous books know what I am speaking about. She is one of the best literary characters in women's fiction. I know that is a bold statement, but I am making it.
An absolute favourite of the year!
Publication Date 21/04/26
Goodreads Review 25/04/26
#TheMountainsWeCallHomeTheBookWomansLegacy #NetGalley.
February 23, 2026
Cussy Lovett, is a proud young woman, poor, and loving her husband, her daughter, and her literacy. She was a Book Woman who rode her mule to delivers books to the poor living in the mountains of Kentucky, but her love for her husband put her and her husband, Jackson, in prison for violating the miscegenation laws for Cussy was a blue Kentucky woman while Jackson was white.
While in prison Cussy longs for her husband and the mountains of home. She is asked by the wardens of both the men's and women's prisons to help build up a library in each one. Anxious to pass on the gift of literacy to others Cussy arises to the task and makes a success of the poor libraries giving a precious gift to many. Cussy does witness the brutality and awful conditions of prison life, especially for woman.
When she is loaned out to a pastor and his wife to help the wife, run the library in Louisville, a bustling town, Cussy gets a look at a different way of living. Her observations are touching but her heart yearns for home, Jackson, and providing people the ability to vote because they can read and write.
A lovely, heart warming story that makes one realize the privilege it is to be literate and have a say in the government by a vote.
This book can be read alone, but I do hope you will take on the other two books about the Bookwomen. It is a tribute to these woman and the Kentucky that is beloved by this author.
***The Fugates, commonly known as the "Blue Fugates" or the "Blue People of Kentucky", are an ancestral family living in the hills of Kentucky starting in the 19th century, where they are known for having a genetic trait that led to the blood disorder methemoglobinemia, causing the skin to be blue. (Wikipedia)***
While in prison Cussy longs for her husband and the mountains of home. She is asked by the wardens of both the men's and women's prisons to help build up a library in each one. Anxious to pass on the gift of literacy to others Cussy arises to the task and makes a success of the poor libraries giving a precious gift to many. Cussy does witness the brutality and awful conditions of prison life, especially for woman.
When she is loaned out to a pastor and his wife to help the wife, run the library in Louisville, a bustling town, Cussy gets a look at a different way of living. Her observations are touching but her heart yearns for home, Jackson, and providing people the ability to vote because they can read and write.
A lovely, heart warming story that makes one realize the privilege it is to be literate and have a say in the government by a vote.
This book can be read alone, but I do hope you will take on the other two books about the Bookwomen. It is a tribute to these woman and the Kentucky that is beloved by this author.
***The Fugates, commonly known as the "Blue Fugates" or the "Blue People of Kentucky", are an ancestral family living in the hills of Kentucky starting in the 19th century, where they are known for having a genetic trait that led to the blood disorder methemoglobinemia, causing the skin to be blue. (Wikipedia)***
May 9, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The third book in the series was just as incredible as the other two.
The third book in the series was just as incredible as the other two.
May 7, 2026
Through the 3 books in The Bookwoman's Trilogy, Kim Michele Richardson has had the opportunity to build a strong and admirable character.
We meet Cussy Carter at age 19 in Book 1 and learn of her "affliction" methemoglobinemia. This is a condition of a people descending from a group in France. There is not enough oxygen in the blood stream. Their blood appears brown 🟤 and their skin has a blue 🔵 cast which can darken in the hands and feet when faced with an emotional situation.
Because of the time in America when this character lived she finds herself experiencing extreme prejudice and even persecution which we find Cussy dealing with as she is unjustly imprisoned in a Kentucky prison. This happens despite the fact that she is an honored librarian and a hero of literacy.
Books of incarcerated individuals especially those unjustly imprisoned are always fascinating to me.
Having of course read both Books 1 and 2 and finding myself enjoying and appreciating them equally I was blown over by the fact that this book was much more introspective and so much more interesting than the first two books.
Without revealing any spoilers I will say you should find yourself surprised by Cussy's actions and interactions in this volume.
There are also some extremely well written and very fascinating supporting characters such as the prison warden, a pastor's wife and the pastor, a fellow inmate and her boss in the prison kitchen where she not only scrubbed and cleaned but also acted as the kitchen auditor saving the prison a good amount of money.
Equal rights to literacy as well as the importance of reading and writing skills are cornerstones to this novel.
Other important subjects found in The Mountains We Call Home are:
• Color prejudice
• Mistreatment of imprisoned individuals such as lobotomies as a form of treatment for behavior issues
• The horrible occurrences of unjust abortions and sterilizations of incarcerated females
• Separation of married lovers
• Separation of child from parent
• Interracial relationships/marriage
• The importance of the ability to both read and write as well as access to books for everyone
Make sure and read the author's thoughts as you will learn the power the books in this trilogy have had in the real world.
Of course I am going to recommend this book but only after reading books 1 and 2.
We meet Cussy Carter at age 19 in Book 1 and learn of her "affliction" methemoglobinemia. This is a condition of a people descending from a group in France. There is not enough oxygen in the blood stream. Their blood appears brown 🟤 and their skin has a blue 🔵 cast which can darken in the hands and feet when faced with an emotional situation.
Because of the time in America when this character lived she finds herself experiencing extreme prejudice and even persecution which we find Cussy dealing with as she is unjustly imprisoned in a Kentucky prison. This happens despite the fact that she is an honored librarian and a hero of literacy.
Books of incarcerated individuals especially those unjustly imprisoned are always fascinating to me.
Having of course read both Books 1 and 2 and finding myself enjoying and appreciating them equally I was blown over by the fact that this book was much more introspective and so much more interesting than the first two books.
Without revealing any spoilers I will say you should find yourself surprised by Cussy's actions and interactions in this volume.
There are also some extremely well written and very fascinating supporting characters such as the prison warden, a pastor's wife and the pastor, a fellow inmate and her boss in the prison kitchen where she not only scrubbed and cleaned but also acted as the kitchen auditor saving the prison a good amount of money.
Equal rights to literacy as well as the importance of reading and writing skills are cornerstones to this novel.
Other important subjects found in The Mountains We Call Home are:
• Color prejudice
• Mistreatment of imprisoned individuals such as lobotomies as a form of treatment for behavior issues
• The horrible occurrences of unjust abortions and sterilizations of incarcerated females
• Separation of married lovers
• Separation of child from parent
• Interracial relationships/marriage
• The importance of the ability to both read and write as well as access to books for everyone
Make sure and read the author's thoughts as you will learn the power the books in this trilogy have had in the real world.
Of course I am going to recommend this book but only after reading books 1 and 2.
April 21, 2026
I don’t usually start a review like this, but if you’re thinking about reading this book and haven’t read the other two books in this series, stop right now and read those first!
The Mountains We Call Home is the third book in the Book Woman series, and, once again, I was swept up into Cussy’s challenging world. I’m not sure I’ve ever met a braver, smarter, more determined woman than Cussy Lovett, and in this book she must face incarceration and the powerlessness that brings, along with her ongoing struggle against the bigotry that she faces on a daily basis. There are many social issues covered in this book, civil rights and the right to vote at the forefront, with literacy once again providing a means for folks to survive and thrive in an uncertain world.
I received an advance review copy of this book from the publisher.
The Mountains We Call Home is the third book in the Book Woman series, and, once again, I was swept up into Cussy’s challenging world. I’m not sure I’ve ever met a braver, smarter, more determined woman than Cussy Lovett, and in this book she must face incarceration and the powerlessness that brings, along with her ongoing struggle against the bigotry that she faces on a daily basis. There are many social issues covered in this book, civil rights and the right to vote at the forefront, with literacy once again providing a means for folks to survive and thrive in an uncertain world.
I received an advance review copy of this book from the publisher.
December 9, 2025
I’ve never read the two previous novels this standalone book was based on, so I didn’t know what to expect.
There's tons of history scattered throughout the book. I didn't know about actual lobotomies taking place in prisons, where the word "hushpuppies" originated from, and how people were imprisoned if they dated/married outside of their race.
There is so much rich history here with Kentucky, the prison system, how literacy was so widespread yet woman got together to ensure that people could read and write so they could vote, move forward with their lives, and so forth.
However, I did find there’s a huge gaping hole at the end of this book. And it left me rereading to see if I hadn’t missed something. For those who have read this, do you feel the same way as me?
There's tons of history scattered throughout the book. I didn't know about actual lobotomies taking place in prisons, where the word "hushpuppies" originated from, and how people were imprisoned if they dated/married outside of their race.
There is so much rich history here with Kentucky, the prison system, how literacy was so widespread yet woman got together to ensure that people could read and write so they could vote, move forward with their lives, and so forth.
However, I did find there’s a huge gaping hole at the end of this book. And it left me rereading to see if I hadn’t missed something. For those who have read this, do you feel the same way as me?
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Oh, how I love this authors books and the life of Cussy Mary. The characters involve soany feelings, whether you love them or hate them. It's hard knowing people can be so cruel, with a lack of regard for human life. If you enjoyed the Bookwoman of Troublesome Creek, this is also a read for you.
Thank you to Net Galley and SOURCEBOOKS for giving me this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to Net Galley and SOURCEBOOKS for giving me this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
May 11, 2026
Even though this book is the third in a series, it can be read as a standalone.
This series started with a blue-skinned Kentucky woman becoming a "Book woman" and working for the WPA program. She delivered books to extremely rural areas on her fiery donkey. The second book covered her daughter Honey, and this one returns back to Cussy.
I loved reading about these women and the historical facts go to show how important these women were and how brave and courageous. There was not a lot of tolerance for differences in the rural hills and mountains of Kentucky. The rules these women were forced to live by were incredibly cruel in a lot of cases. Downright intolerable in others.
That's all I'm going to say about this book and the others. If you enjoy historical fiction, brave female characters and books, you'll probably love this series. I highly recommend it!
*In keeping with the themes of these books, I borrowed this awesome audio from my local library. Libraries ROCK!*
This series started with a blue-skinned Kentucky woman becoming a "Book woman" and working for the WPA program. She delivered books to extremely rural areas on her fiery donkey. The second book covered her daughter Honey, and this one returns back to Cussy.
I loved reading about these women and the historical facts go to show how important these women were and how brave and courageous. There was not a lot of tolerance for differences in the rural hills and mountains of Kentucky. The rules these women were forced to live by were incredibly cruel in a lot of cases. Downright intolerable in others.
That's all I'm going to say about this book and the others. If you enjoy historical fiction, brave female characters and books, you'll probably love this series. I highly recommend it!
*In keeping with the themes of these books, I borrowed this awesome audio from my local library. Libraries ROCK!*
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I really enjoyed the first two Book Woman novels, so I was excited to read The Mountains We Call Home: The Book Woman’s Legacy. Unfortunately, this one didn’t land the same way for me.
I understand this book is meant to be more of a companion or standalone novel, but I think readers who loved the earlier books may feel a bit disappointed. The story skips ahead quickly, and I never quite got the same emotional connection or “feels” that I had with Cussy and the characters from the first two books. It felt more distant, and I missed the depth and intimacy that made the earlier novels so memorable.
At times, it seemed like the focus shifted more toward conveying the social issues of the era rather than fully grounding the story in Cussy’s life and journey. While those themes are important, I wanted more character-driven storytelling.
That said, I did appreciate the author’s heartfelt note where her love of Kentucky and libraries shines through. That personal touch reminded me of the passion behind the series and was a nice way to close the book.
Overall, this installment just didn’t resonate with me the way the first two did.
Thank you NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
#TheMountainsWeCallHomeTheBookWomansLegacy #NetGalley
I understand this book is meant to be more of a companion or standalone novel, but I think readers who loved the earlier books may feel a bit disappointed. The story skips ahead quickly, and I never quite got the same emotional connection or “feels” that I had with Cussy and the characters from the first two books. It felt more distant, and I missed the depth and intimacy that made the earlier novels so memorable.
At times, it seemed like the focus shifted more toward conveying the social issues of the era rather than fully grounding the story in Cussy’s life and journey. While those themes are important, I wanted more character-driven storytelling.
That said, I did appreciate the author’s heartfelt note where her love of Kentucky and libraries shines through. That personal touch reminded me of the passion behind the series and was a nice way to close the book.
Overall, this installment just didn’t resonate with me the way the first two did.
Thank you NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
#TheMountainsWeCallHomeTheBookWomansLegacy #NetGalley
December 13, 2025
I love The Bookwoman and Bookswoman’s Daughter books so much, so I was delighted to recently discover that the story wasn’t over. And great news, this one lives up to the others 👏
Ocurring at least partly during the time we were following Honey in Bookwoman’s Daughter, much of this book focuses on Cussy’s incarceration. As you can imagine, there are parts that are emotionally tough to read. Sooooooo many injustices are highlighted for so many marginalized groups.
Fortunately, there is some balance to that with the immense good that Cussy does for others, the hope she inspires, and the relationships she builds with people from all walks of life. My favorite of which is the bond she forms with Mrs Claxton 💄♥️
As usual, Kim Michele Richardson packs her novel with historically important moments, and follows with a thoughtful author’s note explaining her inspiration.
If you enjoyed the other books, especially if you love Cussy’s unique voice, you must read this. If you haven’t yet read The Bookwoman of Troublesome Creek but find yourself reading this review - get on it, you have time before this releases on April 21, 2026. These meaningful stories will both break and heal your heart. The writing makes them hard to put down. And for the history they share, they deserve to be read widely.
Thank you to Sourcebooks Landmark for the digital ARC 🙏🏻
Ocurring at least partly during the time we were following Honey in Bookwoman’s Daughter, much of this book focuses on Cussy’s incarceration. As you can imagine, there are parts that are emotionally tough to read. Sooooooo many injustices are highlighted for so many marginalized groups.
Fortunately, there is some balance to that with the immense good that Cussy does for others, the hope she inspires, and the relationships she builds with people from all walks of life. My favorite of which is the bond she forms with Mrs Claxton 💄♥️
As usual, Kim Michele Richardson packs her novel with historically important moments, and follows with a thoughtful author’s note explaining her inspiration.
If you enjoyed the other books, especially if you love Cussy’s unique voice, you must read this. If you haven’t yet read The Bookwoman of Troublesome Creek but find yourself reading this review - get on it, you have time before this releases on April 21, 2026. These meaningful stories will both break and heal your heart. The writing makes them hard to put down. And for the history they share, they deserve to be read widely.
Thank you to Sourcebooks Landmark for the digital ARC 🙏🏻
April 29, 2026
I so enjoy this series featuring legendary book woman, Cussy - a pack mule librarian and infamous descendant of the Kentucky Blue people and her daughter, Honey. I loved this latest and while it's described as a standalone companion, it very much felt like a reader would be a bit lost not knowing Cussy's backstory. This one follows Cussy after she is incarcerated for marrying a man not of her 'race' and her journey as the prison librarian. Filled with stories of women treated badly, it's both tragic and uplifting as Cussy helps prisoner learn to read and write. The book ends on a hopeful note though and a great afterward by the author. Well researched, good on audio and perfect for fans of stories about inspiring real life women. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy in exchange for my honest review.
April 2, 2026
I was lucky enough to get an advanced copy of this from Sourcebooks via Goodreads Giveaways. I had read the first Book Woman book a few years ago and learned quite a lot. To get prepared for this one,I did read the sequel and then continued into this one. I know they can “standalone”, but I did think it was a good idea to know the characters, and also understand the humor when reading about Junia’s shenanigans! I would rate this 4.5 stars, but I rounded up due to the beauty of the descriptions, especially the last chapter. I thought the beginning was a bit slow, the middle was great, and then the end went at hyper speed through several decades. I was pleased with how it ended but have questions- would their son have adjusted to living in the woods? Where was Honey when they moved back to the homestead?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 16, 2025
I think I'm a bit of an outlier on this book. I Read the first Book Woman of Troublesome Creek and really liked it. Although I enjoyed this book, I didn't connect with it as much as I did with the original. Most of the emotional topics in the book (racism, oppression, abuse, miscegenation, etc.) were unbelievably heavy, but the writing felt a little too light and upbeat. I respect that Cussy was the type of character that would just buckle down and get on with it, but it almost felt like the author was trying to brush over terrible things to minimize them.
I loved the unique historical perspective, and plan to read The Book Woman's Daughter when I have a chance.
Thank you, Kim Michele Richardson, Sourcebooks Landmark, and NetGalley for the ARC!
I loved the unique historical perspective, and plan to read The Book Woman's Daughter when I have a chance.
Thank you, Kim Michele Richardson, Sourcebooks Landmark, and NetGalley for the ARC!
December 8, 2025
A splendid companion novel to The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek series. Loved it!
Thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the ARC. Opinions are mine.
Thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the ARC. Opinions are mine.
April 27, 2026
"The Mountains We Call Home" is absolutely amazing! I just loved it! The book follows the story of Cussy Mary Lovett, one of the Blue people of Kentucky and a Pack Horse Librarian in the hills of Kentucky, who has been incarcerated for the crime of marrying a white man, Jackson Lovett. Cussy Mary is one of my all-time favorite book characters, and I was overjoyed with this third installment of her story! As the book opens in 1953, both are in separate prisons, with no hope of contact or release. Because of her library work, the Warden in her prison has chosen her to head a trial inmate program of literacy among the prisoners. After a slow start, the program has greatly improved both the literacy and morale of her fellow inmates. The program has captured the attention of a local colored minister and his wife, who request a temporary release for Cussy Mary so she can help them start a similar project for the poor in their town. Cussy is overjoyed by her temporary release and works diligently for the minister and his wife. Kim Michele Richardson has written a beautiful third book in this series that continues the story of Cussy Mary, Jackson, and their adopted daughter Honey through the turbulent era from 1953 into the 1960's. They face so many of the obstacles of that time, racism, outbreaks of polio, the Greenbook for colored travelers in the south, and the Sundown towns that must be avoided at night. It also touches on some of the happier times, including the music of Cab Calloway and the invention of the transistor radio. Cussy's life takes many unexpected turns, and while it is tragic at times, it also heartwarming for its story of Cussy, and her family, despite the many difficulties they face, and the resilience and love that they share. While this does work as a stand-alone, reading all three of these books as I have, is a wonderful experience. Thank you to the author, publisher and Netgalley for my advance copy. The opinions of this review are my own.
March 9, 2026
I think I might have loved this book more than the first book! The writing and story came along so much more smoothly in this book I thought. I really loved all of the history that I learned . I didn't know anything about Sun Down Towns or the map that guided people of color to safe places.
May 1, 2026
I really enjoyed this final book in the trilogy. It wrapped up nicely.
January 1, 2026
This is an outstanding continuation of The Book Woman story, by Kim Michele Richardson. This continuation of the story covers incarceration, miscegenation, poverty and literacy. It's deeply moving, while also being frustrating. The author's love for her native Kentucky shines through. Be sure to read the Author's Note at the end of the book.
When I read the first, Bookwoman of Troublesome Creek, I had no idea it would become a series. I can't help but hope there will be more.
Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for the digital ARC. Opinions are my own.
When I read the first, Bookwoman of Troublesome Creek, I had no idea it would become a series. I can't help but hope there will be more.
Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for the digital ARC. Opinions are my own.
April 9, 2026
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the chance to read and review this ARC.
TLDR: Loved it!
This is the third book in a series about Cussy Lovett, the "blue" packhorse librarian from Kentucky. Cussy has married her white love Jackson, but this is against the law in the 1950s. They are both hauled off to prison and Cussy finds what little happiness she can as the prison librarian. Her role helps her bring joy and hope to the other inmates despite the horrible treatment of the prisoners. I don't want to give too much away but Cussy's adventures continue outside the prison and in a library, where she continues to encounter racism and prejudice.
My only complaint is that the book almost seems to cram in too much history but it's a super fast read with beautiful writing. Four stars.
TLDR: Loved it!
This is the third book in a series about Cussy Lovett, the "blue" packhorse librarian from Kentucky. Cussy has married her white love Jackson, but this is against the law in the 1950s. They are both hauled off to prison and Cussy finds what little happiness she can as the prison librarian. Her role helps her bring joy and hope to the other inmates despite the horrible treatment of the prisoners. I don't want to give too much away but Cussy's adventures continue outside the prison and in a library, where she continues to encounter racism and prejudice.
My only complaint is that the book almost seems to cram in too much history but it's a super fast read with beautiful writing. Four stars.
May 1, 2026
3 stars.
I LOVED the first book, LIKED the second book, but only liked this one.
The first half of this book was really good, I would have loved more time of Cussy in prison and doing more book work in there, or even more of her doing the literacy program when she was on furlough.
Cussy’s escape was unbelievable, surely the state would be the ones to dispose of a dead body considering prisoners are considered property of the state. They’d at least need to identify the body.
I appreciated the chapter about the sundown towns. Growing up in Montana I have been blindfolded to what those were, having only learned about them in the last 5ish years and that’s my own ignorance. Knowing they’re still prevalent today makes me sick and maybe people reading that hard chapter will make others realize it as well.
The last 30% of the book just seemed rushed and thrown together like just wanting the book to end. We got the the reunion with Jackson, and the birth of the baby then just bleh here we are 11 years later, then when they’re old.
I remember when I read the first, The Bookwoman of Troublesome Creek. I was so hooked to the book I finished it during a 2 hour flight. Since then I have read that and the second story two times, and was excited when I found out this one came out. It was a little disappointing but now I’ve had my story concluded finally!
I LOVED the first book, LIKED the second book, but only liked this one.
The first half of this book was really good, I would have loved more time of Cussy in prison and doing more book work in there, or even more of her doing the literacy program when she was on furlough.
Cussy’s escape was unbelievable, surely the state would be the ones to dispose of a dead body considering prisoners are considered property of the state. They’d at least need to identify the body.
I appreciated the chapter about the sundown towns. Growing up in Montana I have been blindfolded to what those were, having only learned about them in the last 5ish years and that’s my own ignorance. Knowing they’re still prevalent today makes me sick and maybe people reading that hard chapter will make others realize it as well.
The last 30% of the book just seemed rushed and thrown together like just wanting the book to end. We got the the reunion with Jackson, and the birth of the baby then just bleh here we are 11 years later, then when they’re old.
I remember when I read the first, The Bookwoman of Troublesome Creek. I was so hooked to the book I finished it during a 2 hour flight. Since then I have read that and the second story two times, and was excited when I found out this one came out. It was a little disappointing but now I’ve had my story concluded finally!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 1, 2026
Cussy Mary Lovett, a descendant of the Kentucky Blue people & pack mule librarian, is back in Richardson's new book. The story picks up with Cussy's imprisonment for marrying a white man. The author's meticulous historical research and wonderful storytelling taught me about "sundown" towns & "moonlight schools". And, as it was with the 2 previous novels, it's the healing power of books that drives the story. I loved every page...
April 29, 2026
Who doesn't love The Book Woman!?! I actually liked this one more than the first book. (Book Woman's Daughter is still my favorite though)
April 28, 2026
Audio
December 5, 2025
I absolutely loved this book. After reading the first two, I was so excited to see parts left in ambiguity come to a full understanding of what Cussy endures in prison. I loved the historical details that show Kentucky, and the United States’ laws that truly ruined people’s lives based on prejudice and fear. The contrasts between city and rural life, prison and “freedom” are so well done. If for nothing else, the story of Jackson and Cussy is beyond romantic and shows the sheer determination they have to fight with to honor their love and marriage. What a tour-de-force this concluding book offers to the Troublesome book woman.
May 12, 2026
The Mountains We Call Home by Kim Michele Richardson was the perfect ending to a series I have absolutely loved.
I first read The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek back in 2019, fell completely in love with the story and the world Richardson created, then finally picked up The Book Woman’s Daughter earlier this year. The moment I heard there would be a third and final book, I knew I had to return to Appalachia one more time and wow, I’m so glad I did.
The Mountains We Call Home beautifully wraps up the legacy of Cussy and her family with all the heart, resilience, and deep sense of place that made this series so memorable in the first place. Richardson has such a gift for writing characters who feel real and lived in, while also shining a light on overlooked pieces of history. Every time I pick up one of her books, I walk away having learned something new.
What I continue to love most about this series is how richly layered it is. Yes, it’s historical fiction, but it’s also about community, survival, literacy, family, prejudice, and the healing power of stories. The Appalachian setting feels alive on the page, the mountains, the hollers, the rugged beauty of rural life. And of course, as someone who loves herbalism and homesteading, I always appreciate the little details connected to the land and self-reliance.
There’s also something incredibly moving about books centered around the importance of books themselves. The Pack Horse Librarian storyline continues to remind me how powerful access to stories and education can be, especially in isolated communities.
This series has honestly become one of my favorite historical fiction worlds to revisit, and while I’m sad it’s over, I think Richardson gave these characters a meaningful and heartfelt farewell.
And please don't skip the Note from the Author at the end of the book.
April 30, 2026
Many thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for an ARC of this book in exchange for a review.
The 3rd book in The Book Woman Series . A captivating story, set in 1950s, Cussy has been imprisoned for miscegenation (her husband Is a non Blue) , her strength, courage and determination to survive her ordeal coupled with the sharing of stories and books with the other women, the power of the books puts light back into their eyes and gives them hope again,
Cussy herself needs to pull on her inner strength to survive the cruelty of the prison, her worry for her husband Jackson in the male prison, the hope that they will be pardoned and the hope that she can keep her unborn baby safe until then. Cussy knows that The Warden has entrusted her with the prison library but she also knows The Warden will not allow her pregnancy to continue.
When Cussy is loaned out to a pastor and his wife, to help run the library in Louisville she sees a different way of life which fills her with hope.
This is a beautiful story which reminds us how privileged we are to be able to read and write and the power that books can have . The story is gritty, heartbreaking in places but filled with courage, hope and love.
I liked that throughout the story we knew that Cussy’s steadfast friend Junia, her book mule was being looked after by her daughter
A masterpiece 5 star read.
The 3rd book in The Book Woman Series . A captivating story, set in 1950s, Cussy has been imprisoned for miscegenation (her husband Is a non Blue) , her strength, courage and determination to survive her ordeal coupled with the sharing of stories and books with the other women, the power of the books puts light back into their eyes and gives them hope again,
Cussy herself needs to pull on her inner strength to survive the cruelty of the prison, her worry for her husband Jackson in the male prison, the hope that they will be pardoned and the hope that she can keep her unborn baby safe until then. Cussy knows that The Warden has entrusted her with the prison library but she also knows The Warden will not allow her pregnancy to continue.
When Cussy is loaned out to a pastor and his wife, to help run the library in Louisville she sees a different way of life which fills her with hope.
This is a beautiful story which reminds us how privileged we are to be able to read and write and the power that books can have . The story is gritty, heartbreaking in places but filled with courage, hope and love.
I liked that throughout the story we knew that Cussy’s steadfast friend Junia, her book mule was being looked after by her daughter
A masterpiece 5 star read.
December 4, 2025
The Mountains We Call Home by Kim Michelle Richardson was a fantastic read for me. As someone who loved the other books in this series, I felt right at home returning to this world. Cussy, especially, feels like a friend at this point, I found myself truly invested in her journey and rooting for her at every turn. The way Ms. Richardson writes makes the characters and setting feel so real and familiar, almost as if I’ve spent time in those mountains myself.
What really stood out to me was the range of emotions the novel brought up. There were moments that made me smile and ones that broke my heart, sometimes within the same chapter. The author skillfully the author weaves in several important topics, also while addressing issues of family, belonging and hardship without ever feeling heavy-handed. The characters are truly unforgettable and I know they will stay with me a long time.
Even though this novel can be enjoyed as a standalone, I strongly encourage anyone to dive into the entire series. Each book beautifully builds on the characters and their stories, creating a deeper connection that makes the experience all the more rewarding. This is series that leaves a lasting impact, filled with emotion, authenticity and relevance.
I would like to thank the publisher and author for providing me with a complimentary advanced copy. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
What really stood out to me was the range of emotions the novel brought up. There were moments that made me smile and ones that broke my heart, sometimes within the same chapter. The author skillfully the author weaves in several important topics, also while addressing issues of family, belonging and hardship without ever feeling heavy-handed. The characters are truly unforgettable and I know they will stay with me a long time.
Even though this novel can be enjoyed as a standalone, I strongly encourage anyone to dive into the entire series. Each book beautifully builds on the characters and their stories, creating a deeper connection that makes the experience all the more rewarding. This is series that leaves a lasting impact, filled with emotion, authenticity and relevance.
I would like to thank the publisher and author for providing me with a complimentary advanced copy. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
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