Disclosure: I received a free copy of the book.  Post contains affiliate links; if you make a purchase, I may earn commission. Opinions shared are mine.

Do the mountains call to you?  If you’ve been longing for a tender historical novel that’s so much more than a romance, look no further.  Sons of Blackbird Mountain by Joanne Bischof is a stunner!

There’s such an exquisite thread of history woven into this book.  From racial battles to fighting addictions, there’s so much to the story.  The beautiful Appalachian setting stirs the heart.  It’s perfect for Sharon McCrumb fans!

Remember the movie Legends of the Fall?  Or maybe, Sabrina?  The Norgaard brothers have similar issues with women.  I loved how Ida and her family kept the brothers in line!  I’m thrilled that it will be a series so I can follow what happens with these characters.

Bichof presents Thor’s communication problems with gentleness and grace. Before reading Sons of Blackbird Mountain, I didn’t know much about the nuances of Sign Language, or even written communication from a Deaf person like Thor.   It’s always fun to learn something new.

Though it’s categorized as Christian fiction, there are some pretty nontraditional topics broached in Sons of Blackbird Mountain.  The story line revolves around brewing cider and other types of alcohol, which some conservative readers may be uncomfortable about.  I wasn’t offended about it.  The cidery was appropriate for the plot and helped to explain the brothers’ standing in the community.

Don’t read this book on an empty stomach. At least have a cup of tea and some cookies nearby.  With all the talk about homemade pies, apple butter, and stew, you’ll have a snack attack by chapter 3!

Do you like books about Appalachia?