I’m entranced by the Blue Mountains of Virginia, and I love reading books set in the region. I’ve collected a handful that capture that beautiful setting that make me want to head to the mountains. Again. Even their covers beckon me.
Sons of Blackbird Mountain by Joanne BischofThe Norgaard brothers, Jargon, Thor, and Haakon, will linger in my imagination for a long, long time. And not only because they are “braw,” fierce protectors, and (for the most part) honorable gentleman. Joanne Bischof’s characterizations are extremely well done – so much so that I could be convinced the brothers were actual historical figures. I can easily imagine Thor stomping through the farm house; Haakon jumping into the pond or climbing the rafters, armed with a rifle; or Jargon steadfastly standing by each.
I recognize the challenge Thor’s character brought to the author, as he is deaf and mute. Certainly a writer’s challenge!
The rural Virginia orchard setting also took up residence in my imagination as I experienced its workings through Aven’s eyes and Thor’s other senses. The setting is its own secondary character, as well rounded as the human characters that live and work in and around the farm.
A beautifully written story that merits a re-read.
Charming the Troublemaker by Pepper D. BashamI enjoyed this second book in the Mitchell’s Crossroads series set in Appalachia much more than the first. (And I’d forgotten so many of the specifics of the first book that I think I can say you don’t need to have read A Twist of Faith to enjoy Charming the Troublemaker.)
Both Rainey and Alex are well-developed and likable, but Alex’s originality really shines. Physically, he’s your standard romance good-looker, but personality-wise, he’s a standout. Lonely with a tender heart, a little goofy yet smart – he’s memorable.
Light humor and gentle faith themes make this “kissing book” a fun, easy read. I appreciate that the romance acknowledges the challenge of premarital chastity and accompanying physical attraction, even if it’s addressed lightly.
It doesn’t hurt that the Shenandoah National Park area of Virginia is one of my favorite places in the world. It makes a great setting.
Honeysuckle Dreams by Denise HunterHoneysuckle Dreams may be my favorite Denise Hunter novel yet! Two romance conventions for the price of one: a marriage of convenience AND friends to lovers.
I loved both Hope and Brady – and their scenes with little Sam. Even the incidentals resonated with me – the radio job, the car mechanics, the panic attacks.
Overcoming fear by trusting in God sounds simple, but as Hope discovers in dramatic fashion, it’s not easy. When you’ve been hurt, true intimacy is a mighty big risk.
This is one I’ll read again!
If you’re looking for more suggestions of Christian fiction set in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, these books have been recommended to me:
- Shenandoah Home by Sara Mitchell
- Virginia Autumn by Sara Mitchell
- Swept Away by Liz Bradford
- The Highwayman by Shannon McNear
And, of course, my own Stay With Me is set, in part, in Shenandoah National Park in Virginia.
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