I enjoyed the sweet and tender love story between Jeremiah Sutphin and Ava Burcham. I liked Jeremiah’s faithfulness, patience and how he encouraged Ava in her writing talents. I liked Ava’s spunk and determination. I liked how the author took readers to a Corn Silk Dance and showed how a Corn Sucking kiss can create lots of drama. Things get dangerous for Ava and Jeremiah when they help a family seeking refuge and safety as they grieve the loss of their oldest child. Both Jeremiah and Ava had lost their family in a tragic way, so they were sympathetic as Granny Burcham helped love on them both.

GrannyBurcham Quote, “Sometimes, girl, you gotta live life like a squirrel. Jump, even if the limb looks too far, ‘cause the one you’re standin’ on is bound to break, if you don’t. “

I enjoyed learning about Ava’s dress designs and how she was a creative and cheerful giver. I got a chuckle out of the different quotes that started each chapter. They were fun. I also like how the Red Ribbons play an intricate part in the adventure of this story. It was fun to learn and read the many ways Ava used them.

The author does a wonderfully job submerging readers into this small Appalachian community giving them an inside look at what happened leading up to the event which history has dubbed “The Courthouse Massacre.”

I liked that the author talks about this event in note to readers she says, “till this day no one knows who fired the first shot” I like that the author notes that there are so many variations to what actually happed as each family member wants to keep their family name clean.


Each author in the True Colors series exposes an actual crime. They add their creative talents, with intriguing fictional characters that walk readers through some brutal stories that try to keep historical events close to the truth and leave readers with a satisfying hopeful ending. I like how this author breaks down each character and tells the “rest” of the story telling what actually happened.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”

Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog www.bookfun.org

This is the first novel I have read by this author, and it will not be the last! It is also my favorite in Barbour’s exciting True Colors series so far. It is centered around true crimes that occurred in 1911 and 1912 Virginia. The two main characters are fictional and have the same kinds of fears and faith challenges that many readers have. There are elements that I enjoy, being a fan of Christian historical fiction and mysteries. The characters are engaging and well-defined, the history has been very well-researched, and the faith challenges are an encouragement to readers.

Nestled in the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains are Hillsville and Fancy Gap, Virginia, where running blockade liquor is a way of life for many. Ava, orphaned at age twelve, lives with and works for the Temples. She is a gifted seamstress who brings many clients in to the alterations shop to purchase new, custom-made dresses. She has had a close friend, Jeremiah, since school days. One who always looks for the silver lining in any situation, he has been in love with Ava for years. Because of her mother’s mental illness and her fear of having “bad blood”, Ava is determined to not marry, especially not someone as good and kind as Jeremiah. Yet Jeremiah only sees the good in her, the woman God created and loves.

In these mountains are long-time feuds between various families, and young men willing to take risks to either support their families or get a few laughs. Joe Creed was a young man trying to take care of his mother and younger sister. After being arrested for stealing from Ava and discharging his gun when startled, Joe hung himself in jail. Another young man chose to kiss another young man’s girlfriend at a corn shucking, which gets fuels the flame between two families already up in arms against each other.

When reading historical fiction or mysteries, whether they include romance is not a priority for me. In the case of this novel, I completely appreciated Ava and Jeremiah and absolutely rooted for them throughout. Ava’s faith struggles have mirrored some of mine. Circumstances may be different, but anyone who struggles with whether they have value, or if the Lord hears their prayers or even has a purpose for their life will appreciate this. The spiritual lessons and scriptures used (including the very beautiful Zephaniah 3:17) are a balm to the struggling soul.

The author is a gifted wordsmith who offers excellent descriptions of both the physical and emotional landscapes. There are plot twists and turns, some from real life, and enough history to keep the story fascinating. Ava’s disappearance heightens the suspense, as does the violence against Jeremiah and others. With the reader in mind, violence that takes place is not described in detail, only enough information to understand what occurred. This is a very satisfying, inspirational read from beginning to end. I highly recommend it to those who appreciate well-written Christian historical fiction that includes real faith struggles, the Lord’s love and healing, mystery and true crime, and suspense.

From a thankful heart: I received a copy of this novel from Celebrate Lit and NetGalley, and this is my honest review.

I really enjoyed this great read. I have loved all the books in this series. It is a great idea for these writers to take a true crime and build another story around it. This shows how people that might have been innocent bystanders could get involved with the people that commit the crime. This story made me cry at times. I loved Ava and how strong she was. I enjoyed seeing how everyone might see something a little differently from each other. I received a copy of this book from Celebratelit for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

Of the eight True Colors books published by Barbour thus far, this latest one by Pepper Basham is my favorite. “The Red Ribbon” is based on the 1912 Hillsville Courthouse Massacre in Carroll County, Virginia, an event unknown to me before reading this book. Nothing says historic Appalachia like a feud, and this story illustrates how deeply grudges run through generations and how it takes only one small spark to set them ablaze: “A terrible foreboding rife with long-held anger and blind rage breathed out from the crowd, with fingers from the past twisting half truths and hard hearts.” As a resident of northern Appalachia myself, I have always loved the rural and the rustic, preferring the backwoods over the city any day. Therefore, I was fairly certain that I was going to enjoy this book, and having no foreknowledge of the crime was an added bonus in the suspense department!

With skilled authenticity, Basham interlaces the historical record with fictional characters to create a tragic and inspirational tale complete with wholesome romance. As much as I love language, usually thick dialect distracts and even outright bothers me because it slows my pace and causes me to have to translate, but in this case it didn’t. None of the dialogue is at all difficult to figure out, and much of it reflects what I’ve grown up hearing, which lends it a comfortable familiarity. In this way and so many others, I feel a special connection with this book. I can easily connect with Ava Burcham and her fondness for writing, and with Jeremiah Sutphin’s bond with his dog, Wolf. The strength of family ties, whether biological or chosen, continues to be a mainstay for many in the Appalachian and other rural regions today.

Because the main characters are fictional, “The Red Ribbon” has an intriguing sense of unpredictability. Up until the final chapter or two, how the ending will play out is largely a mystery, which makes me appreciate it all the more. Basham explores the dynamics of mountain life, including tragedy and trauma and how they shape the characters in both the past and the present. The subject of faith comes up mostly with regard to Ava, for whom “God had always seemed so far away, so distant, from the shadows waving a sinister hand over the works of the world. She’d asked Him into her heart as a little girl, but with so much brokenness in her past, could she really trust Him with her future?” A struggle with which we all contend sometimes, trusting God comes more naturally when we go through difficult circumstances and, with each one, see how He provides for us and cares for us.

Epigraphs for each chapter consist of Appalachian aphorisms from either Granny Burcham or Granddaddy Sutphin; they set the scene for the chapter and impart mountain wisdom. A cast of characters appears at the front of the book, which can be very helpful but which does have some spoilers for the story’s outcome (particularly for those with no prior knowledge of this historical event), so read it with caution! Given how reactive some of the characters are, it is easy to draw parallels between the early twentieth century and the present. As Ava realizes, though, we all have a choice: “She could focus on the losses and pain, allowing those dark thoughts to color the filter of every other scene in her life, or she could choose thankfulness, gratitude, and the belief that God touched it all with hope—held it all—and never took His attention away from her.” Which will you choose?

I received a complimentary copy of this book through Celebrate Lit and was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.

The Red Ribbon by Pepper Basham is a treat for those who like a like true crime novel. Basham blends historical figures with fictional characters to recreate the Courthouse Massacre that took place in 1912 Virginia. Drawing from real events that Basham has knowledge of (the setting is her home town,) she creates a page-turner complete with an endearing heroine, a hunky leading man, and some seriously nefarious goings-on. This reader felt like she had stepped right into a world of feuds, backwoods justice, and less than legal activities. Ava Burcham is alone in the world, but for her Granny and her best friend, Jeremiah Sutphin. She is haunted by a past filled with violence. Convinced by her own beliefs and the accusations of others that bad blood will out, she despairs of every having a real family. But this spunky, never shy away from a challenge character has truth spoken into her life about who she is and her place in God’s family. I loved how Ava’s granny uses down-home wisdom and truth right from the scripture to proclaim that the only blood of any worth is that shed by Jesus. The suspense builds, as does the sweet romance between Ava and Jeremiah. Caught between rivals, they rely on each other and God.

So if you are looking for an historical novel filled with authenticity, check out The Red Ribbon. This one is a great look into the long ago days and ways of Appalachian mountain folk. A great addition to the True Colors series, and a winner from Basham!

Recommended.

Audience: Adults.

I can’t get enough of these True Colors books. Add Pepper Basham to the mix and it’s an explosion of history, romance, and spirituality.

The Appalachian mountains come alive under her pen and the blood of the mountains runs thick. A slight to the wrong family, a kiss to the wrong girl, and you’ll find yourself on the wrong side of the entire clan.

I loved how the story of Ava and Jeremiah was woven together with the history and tragedy. Ava’s ability to find trouble brings levity and a bit of humor to a story that could easily become grisly. And it’s here too that the spiritual thread wove its way into the tale, through Ava and her belief that God has stopped listening. That her “bad blood” is a curse she will never escape.

And can I just say, we all need a Granny Burcham in our lives. Her spunk, grit, and ability to see right through to Ava’s hurts brought about some of my favorite moments from the book.

I thought this fictional book about the very real Hillsville Courthouse Massacre was extremely fascinating! The history is well researched. The plot is attention grabbing with its complex storyline and interesting characters. I think this is my first novel by this author, but I really enjoyed her writing style and will definitely be adding more of her books to my list! I liked the plot twists in the novel and the romance was definitely clean but swoon worthy. It is very easy to become invested in the book and it is hard to put down. I think this might be one of my favorites in this series! Highly recommended!

I received a complimentary ecopy of this book from Celebrate Lit Tours. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

“Solomon Dunn was found dead in a ditch by the road four nights ago.”

“Someday you’ll see who you really are. Not what the fools say about the whole bad-blood nonsense. No. How I see you. How God sees you.”

“It’s not what I want to be known for...The girl with the ribbons.”

I tried to like this more than I did. I’ve been hearing good things about this book and author. But I’m thinking I am not the right target market. After reading “The White City” by Grace Hitchcock last year, I think the True Colors series might be a little too lite and dare I say girly. This one had a lot of dialogue in it and just didn’t do it for me. I keep thinking I will get more of a crime read that’s a little grittier. Still giving it three stars, though, as it was enjoyable at times and I can see how for the genre and target audience, it would be an enjoyable read.

I received this book free from Netgalley and publisher Barbour in exchange for an honest review.

Deep in the Blue Ridge Mountains, a way of life all of its own existed in the 1900s. Generations worth of grudges existed between different families until one day it all came to the final tension point. What started as a simple action turns into the deadly Courthouse Tragedy. Pepper Basham does a remarkable job of taking the reader into the story and into the community through Jeremiah Sutphin and Ava Burcham. The reader begins to understand a little more of how this might have taken place.

The two are best friends but they soon discover their friendship might be the best way to start a relationship of something more. There are some things that need to be worked through before they can move forward. Can Ava get past the stigma of her mother’s mental health as she is marked as having “bad blood” or can God help her overcome who she is in Christ?

This is the first historical fiction book I have read by Pepper Basham and I enjoyed it immensely. One of my favorite parts of the book were the advice written at the beginning of each chapter by the character’s wise elders. As part of the True Crime series, this book takes you through the crime, but I appreciated Basham’s approach of making it part of the story but not the entire focus.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own and I was not required to leave a positive review.

What a well-crafted, intriguing tale! The author really captured a feeling of mystery and unease in this story. It was clear that there were many goings on up in these mountains that were not on the up and up, leading to many senseless tragedies that occurred both before the book began and throughout the timeline of the story.

I appreciated that in this true crime drama, the main characters were written to allow the reader to be right in the middle of the action, creating a way to follow the true tragic events , yet also be able to remain hopeful about a happy ending for them. I loved Jeremiah and Ava! They were wonderful characters and the author included so many beautiful scenes between the two that highlighted their love for each other.

This was a fascinating story and I always appreciate reading the author’s notes at the end of these true crime novels to find out what is fact and what is fiction.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

Woo, a lot going on in this book. This is one of the less “scary” books I have read in this series, but it was good none-the-less. And if you are more sensitive to crime novels this might be an easier one to take in. However, there is still murder and bad things happening.

This really is kind of a sad story when you read the Author’s Notes at the end. But don’t do that until you have finished the book.

I enjoyed Jeremiah and Ava’s romance. It was sweet and I loved how Jeremiah loved Ava no matter what the future might bring.


A copy of this book was given to me through the Celebrate Lit Team. All opinions are my own.

Wow. First, I have loved this series. The True Crimes really pull me in and I have a hard time putting the books down. They are that good and then I find myself researching the crimes and seeing what was real and what was a bit of fiction.

I do have to say that this book took me longer to get into than the others. It has a slow start. The culmination of the story happens towards the end of the book so you really don’t start running and moving in the book until you’re several chapters in. It’s the first book in the series that I haven’t been captivated from chapter one.

Now, that’s not to say I didn’t love it! It’s still a five-star book for me! It just took me longer to get into it. I couldn’t figure out what this was going to have to do with the story.

The setting is wonderful. I visited the Appalachian mountains as a child and I can envision what they look like. The time period is great and I have visions of the dresses and clothes in my head already too.

I loved meeting Ava and admire her tenacity. She has a head to fix things and help fix the wrongs of the world. Somehow though she has to figure out how to do it without hurting those she loves and getting more people hurt.

I highly recommend you read not just this book but the entire series. It’s amazing and I can’t recommend them enough!

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received through Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.

Long-held grudges meet greed, manipulation, and more in Pepper Basham’s The Red Ribbon. While this story is anchored by the Hillsville Courthouse Massacre of 1912, a good portion of the book centers on fictional events leading up to the event.

Through the eyes Ava Burcham, whose dream is to write, and Jeremiah Sutphin, whose dream is Ava, readers experience the uncertainty, the tension, the kindness, and the darker side of life in the hills of Appalachia.

Basham fans will not be disappointed in the relationship development between Ava and Jeremiah (with plenty of those kissing scenes we all expect and love), and while this particular book does not focus on multiple crimes (unless you count the moonshine-related ones), it did give me an education on a little-known piece of history.

The Red Ribbon is an excellent edition to the True Colors series, and I would definitely pick up another romantic suspense from Basham if she is so inclined to write one.

Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

I’ve loved every Pepper Basham book I’ve read and I’ve read all but one—but this book, The Red Ribbon, is the best one she’s written yet! The way Ms. Basham pulls the reader into the story, the way her characters are alive—the colorful mountain sayings, the history, the authenticity! A story by Ms. Basham is a visit to Appalachia.
But more than bringing history to life, Ms. Basham exposes the damage and brokenness of abuse: Ava Burcham. Scarred not only by her mother’s unpredictable behavior, but by witnessing [SPOILER,] Ava has closed herself off to love, courtin’ trouble instead (as Ms. Basham says) and pursuing a man’s profession—journalism. But behind her bold front, Ava has a heart of gold.
I adored Jeremiah and his utter and absolute faith and love for Ava. His persistence, his tenderness, his devotion.
I forgot at times that I was reading a fictional tale with history woven in, so honest the telling. I could see the vistas, cloaked in fog. I read with great apprehension when the courthouse scene unfolded, and sped through the pages in the aftermath.
Though I only visited a handful of times as a girl, I, too, have some family roots in Appalachia, and doubly appreciate Ms. Basham’s stories that bring that history to life.

“God ain’t sittin’ up in heaven watchin’ a show down here on earth. He don’t mind getting’ His hands dirty. Else, He’d never sent the Savior.” – Granny Burcham

ROBIN’S FEATHERS
ALL | THE | FEATHERS!

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.

#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day, #TRD, Book Review, The Red Ribbon, Pepper Basham, Celebrate Lit Publicity tours

In Carroll County, a corn shucking is the social event of the season, until a mischievous kiss leads to one of the biggest tragedies in Virginia history. Ava Burcham isn’t your typical Blue Ridge Mountain girl. She has a bad habit of courtin’ trouble, and her curiosity has opened a rift in the middle of a feud between politicians and would-be outlaws, the Allen family. Ava’s tenacious desire to find a story worth reporting may land her and her best friend, Jeremiah Sutphin, into more trouble than either of them planned. The end result? The Hillsville Courthouse Massacre of 1912.

My Thoughts: This is a story that will keep the reader entertained until the very end. It has twists and turns at every corner that keeps the reader interested and on their toes. I truly do like these novels based on true life events. The story here is based on the Virginia courthouse massacre of 1912. The author has done a lot of research to help us understand exactly what happened and why. Her characters are good, and even her fictitious ones fit in so well with the story. Readers will enjoy this novel; it is for those who like suspense and for those who like a little romance. This is book 8 in the series but each one is a stand-alone read.

The Red Ribbon, #8 True Colors Series by Pepper Basham is one of the best novels in the series so far. Each book seems better than the one before, if possible. Why did I love this book?
First, I loved this story for its setting, taking place in the Appalachian Mountains in 1911. A time when mountain life was a culture unto itself, stills were known but not discussed, bootlegging was common, and families held unto feuds for generations.
Second, Pepper Basham writes with such an engaging style. Flowing and descriptive, Basham’s beautifully painted details plunk the reader down smack dab in the middle of the uncertainty of unrest between two mountain clans.
Thirdly, the romance between Ava and Jeremiah is so wonderfully sweet as it swings from childhood friends to grown young adults in love.
Fourth, there are so many pearls of wisdom from both Ava’s granny and Jeremiah’s grandfather. Each chapter opens with a quote from one or the other. Solid wisdom.
Fifth, there are so many repeated Scripture nuggets, and truths that are life-changing. They help Ava overcome her struggles and some of them are truths I am reminded to cling to in hard times. A book is great when it seamlessly includes these.
Sixth, last, but not least, the horrific crime that is not what it seems. All compelling factors to produce an exciting book. A must-read!
I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher through Celebrate Lit and NetGalley. I am voluntarily leaving these opinions, which are solely my own.

What I Loved: Wow! I’m slowly picking through Basham’s list of offers. If you’re like me and haven’t read any or many by Basham before, The Red Ribbon is certainly a solid place to start.
The setting welcomes you like a true friend. It’s vivid and rich. But it’s also real and comfortable. Basham has a way of expressing the setting that makes you feel like you’re part of the story instead of simply looking in.
The romance was heart-stoppingly sweet and carried throughout the entire story at a natural pace.
I particularly loved the quotes of wisdom from the main characters’ family members at the top of every chapter. These were fitting for the story but also refreshing for my soul as well.
I also appreciated how we didn’t have to wait until the end to see the spiritual theme but it was sewn into the fabric of the story, much like the beloved quilts of Appalachia.
But this story isn’t just about setting, romance, or religion. It’s about a real crime that took place in Carroll County. While the crime itself was brutal, the retelling of it was well done. The facts were respected as they were tucked inside the fictional story. It was interesting to watch the events unfolding.

Rating and Recommendations: I’m giving The Red Ribbon 5 stars and recommending it to those who enjoy true crime, Christian historical, or Appalachian fiction.

~ I received a copy from the publisher. I was not compensated for this review or required to give a favorable one. All thoughts are my own.

I’m a long-time fan of Pepper Basham’s books, but I have to say there’s something extra special about her books set in historical Appalachia. (That’s pronounced apple-atcha, folks. You’re welcome.) She brings the culture to life with a warmth and vivacity that draws you right into the community and the setting, and she presents it in all its humanity—the good and the bad. The dialogue is about as authentic as you’ll get, peppered (if you’ll pardon the pun) with Appalachian sayings and wisdom. (Love you Granny Burcham and Grandpa Sutphin!) I truly did feel transported.

Not only that, but this was a great suspense read. I loved Ava and Jeremiah, and their story was woven so seamlessly in and around the historical events that it was difficult to believe it wasn’t just as real. In some ways, their story was more believable! Let’s just say you should never underestimate the power of a kiss—and not necessarily for good! Although, this being a novel by Pepper Basham, you can be sure the good kisses still predominate. 😉

One of the things I found especially intriguing was the way Basham handled the unanswered questions surrounding the Hillsville Courthouse Massacre. There’s not a lot of black and white to be found in either the facts as they’re known or the people involved, which had the potential to make for a less-than-satisfying read. But Basham used this to her advantage, creating a story that was both honest and sensitive in its portrayal of those involved.

And really, I could have spent so much more time with Ava and Jeremiah. Best friends to more is one of my favourite tropes, and Ava and Jeremiah’s romance is all the reasons why.

I am enjoying reading this series and learning about historical crimes that made headlines. This story was especially fun to read because I loved the western feel of it. We get a glimpse of what it was like to live during 1912 in the Appalachian Mountains. The author does a great job of making readers feel as though they are right there in the middle of the story.

Ava is one feisty young woman who is determined to find out the truth when she sets her mind to something. She is hesitant to let her heart fall for anyone for fear she may turn out like her mama. Some say her mama was crazy in the head and Ava thinks she will have the same affliction. I liked how Ava had this quality of never giving up. Her lack of trust holds her back at times and she will need to learn to give her fears to God.

Jeremiah was probably my favorite character because he has such a good heart. He is trustworthy, hardworking and fair. He has had his eyes on Ava for awhile and knows he must let her know his true feelings. The kiss they share is sweet and gave me hope that we would see a relationship develop between them. The author does a great job of using Jeremiah to share his faith with Ava.

I can’t forget to mention a very special character who I adored. Ava’s grandma was the sweetest woman ever. She was always there to listen to Ava when she felt she would never be able to marry. Ava’s grandma reminds her to have faith in God and to trust Him with everything.

The story is an adventure into moon shining, deceit, greed and a lesson in faith. There is a mighty big storm brewing in the town as families start to turn on each other. It’s hard to keep the peace when there are men willing to do anything to protect their secrets. The courthouse scene is one I won’t soon forget. I didn’t know anything about The Courthouse Tragedy, but the author delivers history mixed with a bit of fiction to bring this historical event to the surface. I can’t imagine what it must have been like as the sound of gunfire started. I’m sure people were trying to find a place to hide as men took to violence in the middle of a trial. I read the Historical Note at the end of the book and found many interesting facts. No one knows who shot first and I like that the author kept true to the facts. In her notes she explains that pride did get in the way and perhaps forced someone to take action. I loved how she explains about the people involved in this tragedy and what happened to them.

I really enjoyed reading this book and appreciate how the author shares , “In a fallen world, broken things happen, but Christ came to mend the broken-hearted and raise up those who have fallen.” Even in the midst of tragedy like this story describes, God was there to heal the pain and give them hope for a better future as he restores their faith.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

Wow, blown away by another book in the True Colors series!
Author Pepper Basham writes her books about the Appalachian area and my oh my are they authentic, from the area portrayed to the dialect to the crushing poverty.
Very well researched, this author with her Appalachian heritage brings an authenticity to her writing.
I am loving this series, all based on true criminal events that have been fictionalized in some way.
Jeremiah and Ava's story kept me captivated as I read.
I had to look up the Hillsville Courthouse Massacre of 1912 myself because the book fascinated me so much. I love when I can learn more from a book I am reading and frequently look things up as I read.
Romance comes alive in this book as does the humor.
I highly recommend this book and the whole True Colors series.

Publication Date : October 1, 2020
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.