I was captivated by this story. Unforgettable characters. Intriguing plot. Captivating drama that left you wondering what would happen next. I’m a huge fan of the East Tennessee mountains and culture, so this book created a beautiful glimpse into what life may have looked like back in those “good old days”. The romance was very sweet and the heart and faith of the heroine was as truly inspirational.

I love Pepper Basham's books. She is one of those authors that writes across multiple genres and does it well.
The Heart of the Mountains is the second book in the series. I would recommend reading the first book, Laurel's Dream, first. Although it could be read as a standalone, you would miss the connections from the first book. Laurel's Dream is mainly about Laurel and Jonathon. This book is about Jeb (Laurel's brother) and Cora (Jonathon's sister).

The Heart of the Mountains is a beautiful story of finding purpose, healing, and accepting people's differences. It is also filled with memorable characters, superstitions, and faith. It had a slow start and is more description driven than I would normally like, but it worked.

"Nothing could be as bad as a lifelong commitment to that think-headed withered-hearted pansy of a man."

The humor I consider a trade-make in Basham's books was more subtle than usual. I loved Cora and Jeb, and I enjoyed them together. The war has left its mark on them, as it would anyone, and I appreciated the way in which this was handled.

As the story closed, I still had a few questions. The main story line does come to a wonderful conclusion. Yet I wonder if there will be a third book to tie up a few loose ends from both books. It's not necessary, as we don't always get all the answers, but I would love it all the same! I would recommend this story to anyone who loves a good historical fiction novel.

Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book. I was not required to provide a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Pepper Basham transports the reader to 1919 in the Blue Ridge Mountains, where tradition and superstition runs strong. New comers are watched with suspicion and doubt, questioned at every thing that doesn't match the mountain way. The characters are brimming with grit, strength, and the willingness to help out their fellow man. Even when faced with the dated beliefs of mountain people unwilling to see the truth and good in others, the main characters move forward with the directive to serve and love others around them. The Great War has ended and those who worked on the front are still dealing, and reeling, from what all they saw and experienced. Throw together a former soldier who can't forget or let go of those left behind, and an English nurse who served on the front line and is running away from an arranged marriage. What transpires is a learning curve like no other. Cora is used to a life of privilege, but seeks to have more. When a nursing opportunity comes, she loves the challenge is brings to her life. But during war nothing is guaranteed. And help is needed on the front. After a year of healing and working on the after-effects of war, her father arranges a marriage to aid his own business. When the man turns out to the worst of the worst, Cora runs away to join her brother and Uncle in the Blue Ridge Mountains. After the months of travel, she should only need a few more months to make the man move on and then head home. But something calls to Cora as soon as she arrives, helping move her from avoiding a marriage to moving on with the life God has called her to. Jeb watched too many men fall during the Great War, the last straw being his best friend. When he turns home, only the Preacher listens to what he is dealing with and show Jeb how to move forward one day at a time with his focus on God and his calling to love others. Through his woodworking, Jeb learns to work through his memories and use his God given talents. When Cora and Jeb meet, they see the haunting memories and hard work each has put in to arrive at the peace they have in their lives. And that strength pulls them together time after time. Cora wants to use the medical knowledge she has gained during the war, and to help those who live on the mountain who are quickly coming to mean so much to her. Jeb always seems to know when Cora needs a helping hand with treatment or finding her way around the mountain. When a nosy busybody on the mountain starts to pass on gossip and lies, Jeb and Cora face daily increasing violence as a result. They will have to choose if they will let superstition and lies overcome them and their loved ones, or if they will fight for those weaker than them and the love that may be blooming between them.
Pepper Basham infuses her stories with strength of character, real to life battles that each person must fight, and enough romance to settle a sigh deep inside. This story jumps off the page and takes the reader along on a ride to the past, where learning happens every day and forward movement can only come with fighting for each step. This book should be on every TBR pile, it will delight, entertain, move, and enlighten all who read it. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

I loved this book because the opening scene made me laugh but yet at the same time hold my breath too.
Pepper did such a great job with it that I couldn't imagine doing what Cora did and keeping my cool at the same time.
Then in another scene I definitely cackled because once again I "actually " could see it happening and the look on Cora's face was priceless.
I definitely think I have to say that this book was better than Laurel's story. Too much happening in this one!
I enjoyed every minute of this book and didn't want it to end. Pepper has such talent!
Cora was a stubborn one though. I was rooting for her the whole way through because I knew that she could tough it out so to speak.
I liked Jeb immediately too. He was pretty special in my book. You'll soon see why when y'all will pick up this book and read it.
Such a fun read! Of course, I finished it in one day once I settled down to read it. A whole evening passed but I was left feeling pretty happy about it.
I think my favorite part was learning about the mountain people and their beliefs.
Pepper's legacy so to speak. How awesome!
I'm highly recommending this book! I wish I could give this story more than 5 stars. It's more than deserving!
Thank you for a copy of this wonderful book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.

Pepper Basham’s The Heart of the Mountains is the story of Cora Taylor who leaves England to escape a forced marriage. She travels to the Maple Springs in search of her brother and uncle. On the way, she meets Jeb McAdams, a man who is like no other she has ever met. Cora unexpectedly finds a life in the mountains – one full of friendship, loyalty, purpose, hope, and even love. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this lovely, well-written, uplifting book that will stay with you long after you finish it. Pepper Basham has crafted a great story with a wonderful cast of characters. If you love historical fiction, this book is for you!

It's 1919 and Cora Taylor has left England to head to the Blue Ridge Mountains to avoid an arranged marriage she wants no part of. Her doctor brother is in a small town in the heart of the Blue Ridge mountains and with her nursing skills from World War 1, she hopes to become his assistant. As an upper class English woman, Cora finds a whole new world in the Blue Ridge mountains and learns to adjust to it.

Lovely insight into the lives of the Blue Ridge people as well as their ways in this time period. It is based on Basham's own family history and pulls you in from the beginning to the end. The slowly developing relationship between Jeb and Cora was sweet and I loved the "lips itching" element as their relationship grew. This is a beautiful and heart tugging story that definitely made me want more books like this from the author.

**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.

A must read for historical romance fans!
This is a sequel to the story begun in Laurel's Dream, set in the same area in the Blue Ridge Mountains following WW1. Featuring two main characters from very different backgrounds, yet they share a common experience of the war.
Jeb McAdams (Laurel's brother) is an all around good guy, and Cora Taylor (Jonathan's sister from England) is a force to be reckoned with. He is a gentle man and puts up with a lot from her, but both are learning to work through their traumas and find their purpose in life. I loved the subtle humor and funny comments from Jeb, especially with his horse. Some serious issues drive the pair together with some action and peril.
The spiritual discussions are short but pertinent and had me thinking long after closing the book. A touching tale of redemption with one character especially had me near tears. Wish the book had been even longer. Maybe there will be another one?
It can be read as a stand alone, but readers will want to pick up the first book after getting a taste of this one.
Great storytelling with plenty of inspiration and a sweet romance! Recommend! 4.5 stars

This was a sweet romance that gave me Dr. Quinn medicine woman/Christy vibes. I enjoy a plot where the character is a bit of a fish out of water and this one was definitely that. Cora was capable and determined while also having a heart to care for the people of the mountain. Jeb was tender hearted and I loved his steady and dependable nature. These two characters shared a connection almost instantly and it was nice to see how their feelings blossomed. There were a lot of medical emergencies and a lot of other characters who added to the dynamic of this story and at times I really longed for less of that and more romance. It was present, yet the book felt a little heavier because of the constant danger looming. I gravitate towards a bit lighter plot, but it was well written and I think readers will really be glued to the pages. The conclusion was sweet and I got a lot of those romance feels I was looking for!

I enjoyed reading Cora and Jeb's story. Cora was a likeable character that I enjoyed meeting on the page. Initially, she was uncertain about how to act in her new world but was eager to get started. Jeb was a man struggling to overcome his past with such a large inner core of kindness, you just had to root for him.

Ms. Basham skillfully wove the theme of redemption through the stories of her main characters, as well as, the supporting cast.

I received an advanced reader's copy from the publisher through NetGalley and Just Read Tours; a positive review was not required.

What a lovely feel good romance!! Jeb and Cora captured my heart from the very beginning of this book all the way to the end! Their romance was sweet and beautiful to see. I loved Jeb’s family as well, I wish I could somehow meet them and sit at their supper table!!

Even though both of the main characters had been in the war, it’s not dwelled upon too much. There may have been some shady characters, but the book is written in a very lighthearted manner, nothing terribly dark or sinister.

With a setting in the mountains of Appalachia in 1919, The Heart of the Mountains by master storyteller Pepper Basham transports the reader on a fascinating cultural trip to a different way of life. Capturing the speech of the locals and the adventures awaiting the outsiders who dare to venture there, the author painted such a vivid picture that I felt I was part of the setting. The colorful, engaging characters came alive on the page and I was able to easily visualize all their adventures.

Cora Taylor is escaping a forced marriage in England when she decides to travel to the Blue Ridge Mountains to visit her brother who has relocated there. Jeb McAdams has emotional damage after returning from serving in World War I. He is trying to recover when Cora crashes into his life. I loved his gentle compassion and willingness to help others.

“Bringin’ a heap of women into a man’s life certainly sent everything into a tailspin.”

Brimming with wit and charm and full of Basham’s sense of humor and beautiful prose, this book is a delicious sequel to Laurel’s Dream. Themes of forgiveness, redemption, the importance of family, and the power of love are woven throughout the book and add to the journey into this intriguing world. 4.5 stars

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from Barbour Publishing. All opinions are my own.

Oh my gosh... even just thinking about this book is going to require a trip to the grocery store for more licorice. Since the hero smells like licorice and I love the hero, it's no wonder I consumed copious amounts of it while reading. I knew from the moment I first heard about Cora that I was going to adore her and I absolutely did. The two of them together with their lips itching had me glued to their story. I can only hope that Barbour contracts Kizzie's story so I can get another glimpse of this amazing setting and the wonderful characters! Pepper Basham excels at writing mountain stories. I should just pack my bags and head to the mountains with every book in that setting that she releases because I'm always left wanting to visit them while reading. This book felt like going home... even though it's historical. And like this book, home holds a special place in my heart.

Cora left England to escape her father and the horrible marriage he was trying to force her into - but Maple Springs doesn't match the rosy picture her brother Jonathan's letters painted. Nevertheless, since she's got to stay for a while until things settle down back home, she steps into the role she knows best - nursing. But even nursing through the war couldn't prepare her for some of the things she'll face... Jeb has been fighting to come to terms with his war experiences ever since he came home, and is gradually beginning to overcome the darkness. But the arrival of Cora changes everything. He's drawn to her, but surely no English lady could ever be happy in Maple Springs? And when her heart to help others begins to upset certain people, Jeb may have a job to even keep her alive. Can these two find the place and the work God has for them, and overcome those who are speaking (and acting) against them?

I've never visited the Blue Ridge Mountains, but books like this definitely make me wish I could. The beauty of the setting shines through clearly, despite some of the characters who call the mountains home (but perhaps because of others). But the book is far more than just its setting. It's people striving to overcome their demons with God's help, and to discover and walk in the plans God has for them. It's people doing what is right even when there are consequences. It's two people finding love when they least expected it - and working up the courage to acknowledge it. A heart-warming story that inspires faith and courage while drawing the reader into a new world. I was sorry to have to say goodbye to Jeb and Cora at the end, but happy for such a satisfying ending. Hoping for more virtual visits to the Blue Ridge Mountains soon! Recommended.

Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.

This is book two in the My Heart Belongs in the Blue Ridge series. Book One is called Laurel’s Dream and you do need to read it first. Laurel’s Dream introduces you to the setting and all the characters, which The Heart of the Mountains builds upon.

I enjoyed both books, but I especially enjoyed this book. The shared desire to overcome, to live a life worth living and the aspect of creating something beautiful in a broken world were themes that I could relate to. I loved Cora’s sense of adventure and determination. I appreciated her willingness to jump right in and her humility to learn. I also appreciated Jeb’s heart of sacrifice and gentleness of character. The setting was described so that you could feel the realities of the culture of the Blueridge mountains.

Though there were some very serious themes and heartbreaking situations the book never felt too heavy. I hope there will be more to the series.

I received a free digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

This is a beautiful story with two compelling, relatable lead characters and wonderful atmosphere. The author effortlessly transports readers to another time and place. The ensemble cast of local characters are as much a part of the setting as the unforgiving terrain. Cora was a fish out of water but not in an over-the-top kind of way. The clash of backgrounds and cultures felt realistic. The relationship at the core of the story propelled me along. I highly recommend the book.

Many thanks to Barbour and NetGalley for the ARC!

Pepper Basham's books set in Appalachia are always a treat. She very respectfully portrays an historical Appalachian lifestyle without shying away from the difficulties inherent in that lifestyle. She shines a light on the good and loving hearts while acknowledging the hearts that are hardened by adversity. Basham's characters are frequently quirky and easy to love; the characters in this book are no exception. The only thing that troubled me a bit about this book was the timeline. It wasn't the speed with which relationships were built, but the unrealistic speed with which furniture was built! I know, that won't make sense until you read the book, and you will want to read this book. As in her other books the characters have a great deal of wisdom to share.

I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy of The Heart of the Mountains from Barbour Publishing via NetGalley without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own.

The sequel to My Heart Belongs in the Blue Ridge; Laurel’s Dream, The Heart of the Mountains can be read as a stand alone, but I highly recommend book one as it will make book two much richer.

Author Pepper Basham writes a story that shows us the challenges of living in the Blue Ridge mountains, post WWI. The neglect and poverty are so sad but the fact that people find joy in the little things, not in accumulating stuff, will make you think. Wild and beautifully described, I’d love to visit.

Well developed characters draw you into the story as you watch Cora adjust to life in the mountains with the help of Jeb, who doesn’t want to help her, yet is compelled to. Both have a good sense of humor and are driven to help others, making them a joy to read about. The secondary characters are heart warming and I found myself pulling for them, especially Sam. And of course it wouldn’t be a Basham book without a sweet romance.

With God’s love and grace beautifully woven throughout, this is a wonderful story for anyone who enjoys historical inspirational fiction.

I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.

Historical fiction. A cannot put down novel that reads like nonfiction at times. This book was sent to me by Netgalley for review. This author is gifted at weaving a story. The characters are mostly likable, sometimes not so much. The setting is one of my favorites. Enjoy

I didn’t realize this was a sequel to Laurel’s Dream, but I was able to read it and enjoy it without having read the first book. Jeb and Cora are a great couple—an Appalachian woodworker and an English nurse. Both were scarred from their Great War experiences. The novel will pull at your heartstrings as the love story between Jeb and Cora unfolds. Beautifully written and highly entertaining.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

I enjoyed this return trip to the Blue Ridge Mountain area and familiar characters. However, the new characters really captured my attention as Basham has a talent for creating memorable characters. Throughout the storyline both sides of life, the sorrow and the beauty are displayed and the two main characters experienced both. The romantic tension builds as the adventurous plot enfolded. Humor was peppered in at all the right places. Some of the family and community scenes were touching and involved beautiful lessons of faith. Definitely, a place and people that I would like to revisit. I was given a copy of this book by the publisher. All opinions are my own.