The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek: A Novel

The bestselling historical fiction from Kim Michele Richardson, this is a novel following Cussy Mary, a packhorse librarian and her quest to bring books to the Appalachian community she loves, perfect for readers of Lee Smith and Lisa Wingate.

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320 pages

Average rating: 7.9

1,052 RATINGS

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Community Reviews

Anonymous
Apr 19, 2025
6/10 stars
3.75 stars. The 2nd half was better than the first. I felt like the book was preachy at times. (Preaching to the reader) I think that if the story was a bit stronger the reader could figure out for themselves the wrongs and injustice of the time and place.
wardbunch
Mar 26, 2025
10/10 stars
Really enjoyable visit to Appalachia.
IrishNana54
Mar 19, 2025
9/10 stars
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and it was eye opening to say the least about what these women went through to ensure that people were given the opportunity to have reading materials.
mpaetow
Mar 15, 2025
9/10 stars
Great Historical Fiction. Well researched. Wonderful book to reflect on our own bias. Great discussion on prejudices! Highly recommend for anyone who likes historical fiction. Kentucky history that can be used for any history class in any state! Some of Depression Era public works projects I wasn’t aware of!
leroyreads_365
Mar 06, 2025
8/10 stars
This book contains a couple of scenes that I, personally, found to be borderline triggering - sexual violence, beatings, racism, and detailed medical scenes.
However, I am glad that I listened to this book. I was definitely researching parts of it on my own while I was listening. The Fugate Family in Kentucky is a fascinating part of history that I was not aware of, and I enjoyed learning about the pack horse library system that was created in America. Richardson has created a really interesting historical fiction piece and has extensively researched her time period for this book. I was constantly rooting for the good characters, you can't help but fall in love with them and their morals when they stand up for the Bookwoman and show her kindness. However, I will always root for the good ole mountain folk.

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