It has been a long time since I read a book set in the west or about that time periods.

I cannot imagine the conditions miners used to work in and I do not blame them for wanting to make it better.

I loved the characters in this story. I also cannot imagine what the doctor saw and went thru.

Would love to see this book come to life as a movie!

This is the fictionalized version of the fight on Blair Mountain. When the coal miners are treated so horribly they tried to join a union and the mine operators fired them, threw them out of their homes and beat them.

There were a lot of characters and this took me longer to read than it should have. Perhaps I just didn't have enough time to devote to it and at one point but I found the amount of characters overwhelming and had trouble keeping track of what side they were on. I like stories more character driven and the only characters I found to be really fleshed out were Doc Moo and Big Frank. On the other hand I give high marks for writing, plot, intrigue and atmosphere and would definitely recommend this.

Thank you to Netgalley and St. Martin's Press for providing me with a digital copy.

Thank You to St Martin's Press and NetGalley for an advance digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

This novel showcases the dangers of mining in the 1920's mining industry and the power of the owners of mines as well as the lack of control the miners had over their own lives. This novel based on true events following miners trying to gain rights and safety measures to protect their lives through the development of unions. The owners are more interested in profit then the safety of their workers which leads to a violent confrontation between the different factions.
This is a great historical novel that I thoroughly enjoyed from page 1 to the very last page. Full of action, desperate measures, corrupt authorities and a fight for a better life.

“Law only serves them that’s in power. Ain’t no different than always...’Tis the victor who writes the history—and counts the dead.”

I’ve been an enthusiastic fan of author Taylor Brown since reading Gods of Howl Mountain, which was published in 2018. His new novel, Rednecks, is out now, and as with his earlier work, it is outstanding. My great thanks go to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for the invitation to read and review.

Brown tells the story of the Battle of Blair Mountain, a very real large scale battle, complete with machine guns, helicopters, tens of thousands of angry, armed miners, and the U.S. Army, an event which really did take place in the Appalachian Mountains in 1921. Over a million rounds were fired, and then the story was suppressed by the government, bosses, and big business media.

In his author’s note, Brown tells us that the character of Dr. Muhanna, a heroic individual sympathetic to the cause of the miners, is based on his own great-grandfather. There is a meaty explanation of what parts of the story are based on the actual historical record, and what parts—small ones, to be sure—he has changed.

Apart from his skill as a writer and researcher, the thing that I have always loved best about Brown is his deep respect for the working class. It shines through every page of this novel. Mother Jones, the fiery Socialist labor organizer, is here as well, and she is possibly my favorite figure in American history. Unfortunately, she is not at her best here. Past ninety years of age and in poor health, she attempts to deceive the miners into quitting their struggle early once she learns that Washington, D.C. intends to send troops. It’s a pity that her many years of inspirational organizing and leadership are not on display here, but the facts are the facts, and this story is not, after all, chiefly about Mother, but about the miners, so I suppose that Brown has written it in the only honest way that it could be written. There are indeed passages that demonstrate her eloquence and loyalty to workers of every race and ethnicity.

As I read, I like to highlight passages to include as quotes in my review. This time, I came away with 53 quotes. Reluctantly, I am setting most of them aside; you will have to find them yourself. They’re better within the context of the story, anyway.

As a personal aside, I will mention that my own grandfather—“Papaw”—died of Black Lung disease in 1978 after having worked in a nonunion mine in South Dakota beginning in the eighth grade. He had to leave school and work fulltime, as there was not a social net back then, and he and his family would have starved if he had done otherwise. World War II brought him better fortunes, but coal dust, once lodged in the lungs, never leaves.

This is a gritty tale to be sure, one full of bloodshed and suffering, but also of immense courage and inspirational leadership. I read it in small bites lest it work its way into my dreams, until I reached the climax, at which point I had no choice in the matter, and was unable to put it down. This book is one of the year’s best. I highly recommend it to those that love labor history, historical fiction, or that just love a well-told story.

An accurate portrayal of the most violent labor strike in the US that has been ignored. There was an all out war in the mountains of West Virginia against King Coal, the mine operators, the hired detective agencies and all else who fought against the miners and union men who wanted to be their fair due for working the mines.

The book is quite violent and told like a war story, and that is because this union strike turned into a war.

The book was well written, had some great phrases and descriptions, however my one gripe is the other side was shown as completely in the wrong with no redeeming quality. Not every person is fully evil or bad, and having a bit of humanity in portraying the other side does lend for a better read.

That said, this book returns a history that has been forgotten and needs to be remembered.

I’ve been a fan of Taylor Brown’s books ever since I read his first best-seller, Fallen, shortly after it was published in 2016. Even though I have read every book he has written since then (five in all) it has remained my favorite, until now. With las month’s release of , a fictionalized account of the largest armed uprising since the American Civil War, Brown has cemented himself as one of the leading authors of historical fiction to come out of the American South since Shelby Foote.

West Virginia’s <i> Battle of Blair Mountain</i> is also the largest and deadliest labor uprising in United States history, in which as many as 10 thousand striking coal miners fought against state police, local militias and private detectives hired by the mine owners. Although the miners held a vast advantage in numbers, the mines’ owners employed surplus gatling guns and airplanes which dropped bombs and poison gas on the strikers’ positions.* The strike finally ended when the president ordered U. S. Troops into the area to quell the <i>insurrection</i>. As many of the miners had served in the military during the Great War, they didn’t want to fire on the soldiers and most chose to surrender rather than do so. By its end, more than 100 people on both sides were killed, mostly miners.

Brown did an excellent job of breathing life into the actual historical characters such as Mary <i>Mother</i> Jones, UMW president Bill Blizzard, Logan County Sheriff Don Chafin, and Smilin’ Sid Hatfield (yes, one of <i>those Hatfields</i>), but his portrayal of his more-or-less fictional characters was magnificent. In most cases, he cobbled together bits and pieces of several actual participants into a single heroic entity such as that of ‘Big Frank Hugham’ who survived an attempted murder by Baldwin-Felts Detective and went on the become a leading figure in the battle. My favorite character, though, was Doctor Domit ‘<i>Moo</i>’ Muhanna, an immigrant doctor whose dedication to the Hippocratic Oath took him into the worst of the fighting to treat combatants on both sides. This character was based on Brown’s own grandfather, whose story bears striking similarities to his fictional counterpart.

Until Franklin Roosevelt signed the National Recovery Act in 1933, stories involving labor movements rarely had happy endings. Not only did the mine and factory owners control the money, the weapons and the politicians, they also controlled what the rest of us heard about such movements. Had we lived back then, we would not have been reading stories sympathetic to them or their cause. Brown portrays this brilliantly when he describes how censors handled a story that a reporter had risked his life to get.<blockquote>“Cut this,” he said, setting the paper on the table, striking a sentence with his thumbnail, hard enough to leave a crease: <i>Gaunt-faced women, barefooted and expressionless watched the troops pass. Some of them waved half-heartedly.</i>
“No sob stuff for these Rednecks,” he said. He went on cutting and deleting, killing more lines, turning images into ghosts. People who once existed in the story were cut out. They disappeared between the lines, into the margins, like they’d never been.
Sparkes ground his teeth. He’d followed the American Expeditionary Force across Europe in the Great War, working on the bloody edge of the campaign, and never faced such a knife. The man before him seemed so sure of himself, so certain of his rightness. “No patriotic stuff from these people,” he said, cutting another line.
“You seem pretty cavalier about this, Major. You’re cutting awfully close with the United States Constitution right now, don’t you think?”
Bad Tony raised one eye at him. “All that time on the front lines, writing your stories, and you ain’t learned how it works yet. <i>’Tis the victor who writes the history—”
“And counts the dead.</i> Yes, I know the quote.”</blockquote>Bottom line: I can’t recommend this book highly enough. If you are thinking about reading this, stop thinking and start reading.



* The book’s characters claimed that this was the first time that American’s had subjected other Americans to aerial bombardment in the United States, but this is incorrect. Three months previously, bombs were dropped on the Greenwood District during the Tulsa Race Massacre in Oklahoma. It’s highly unlikely that anyone in West Virginia would have known that, though, so the author can be forgiven.

Quotations are cited from an advanced reading copy and may not be the same as appears in the final published edition. The review was based on an advanced reading copy obtained at no cost from the publisher in exchange for an unbiased review. While this does take any ‘not worth what I paid for it’ statements out of my review, it otherwise has no impact on the content of my review.

FYI: On a 5-point scale I assign stars based on my assessment of what the book needs in the way of improvements:
*5 Stars – Nothing at all. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.
*4 Stars – It could stand for a few tweaks here and there but it’s pretty good as it is.
*3 Stars – A solid C grade. Some serious rewriting would be needed in order for this book to be considered great or memorable.
*2 Stars – This book needs a lot of work. A good start would be to change the plot, the character development, the writing style and the ending.
*1 Star – The only thing that would improve this book is a good bonfire.

With an overall length of under 330 pages, Rednecks is packed with history. A history that not many people are familiar with. I had never heard of the West Virginia Mine Wars until this book. Brown did his research and brought real-life characters to the story along with well-crafted fictional characters.

The way the story is written, you will feel yourself invested in it and cheer for the miners. All they wanted was the right to have a life—is that too much to ask? These men came from all walks of life, trying to make way for themselves and their families. They were promised the sun, the moon, and the stars and found themselves living in horror. And many of these men weren’t men but young boys trying to help their families survive.

After reading Rednecks, I have a better understanding of the term redneck. As someone who spent their formative years in the South, I never truly understood the word. I always assumed it was an insult and not a name someone wanted to be called. Now, I know better! I will hold my head high when someone uses that word to describe me!

Who do I feel should read Rednecks? Everyone, especially if they are interested in American history. Or even if they are curious about the rise and fall of labor organizations. Rednecks will make you stop and think about what our ancestors went through to survive.

Amazing writing about a horrific incident and lifestyle. There is definitely some kindness which helps balance. I had a difficult time envisioning myself in this setting but that is another testament to the quality of writing. It’s always worthwhile to learn about history which I wasn’t previously aware. Thank you NetGalley for the ARC

good mystery and i loved the friends too. I really enjoyed the romance and how it solved . I also loved reading this author. Really enjoyed her friends. Great book.

This historical fiction is set in 1920/21 an chronicles the real Battle of Blair Mountain, which was between the coal mines and the miners who were trying to improve the horrible conditions and unionize. The author has included real people and other characters inspired by real people. It is a very educational read but suffers a little due to the need to keep true to the real story and the number of characters. It is, however, a fascinating, albeit violent, story and one that is worthy of your time. 3.75/5

See full review in the "Atlanta Journal-Constitution"

The fight to unionize America’s coal industry culminated in a cataclysmic clash in 1921 between 10,000 Appalachian coal miners and 3,000 law enforcement and civilian coal supporters. The Battle of Blair Mountain is still ranked as both the largest armed uprising since the Civil War and the largest labor revolt in U.S. history. This tumultuous time period is brought to vibrant, palpable life in “Rednecks,” Savannah author Taylor Brown’s propulsive work of historical fiction that vividly re-imagines this stormy slice of history...

https://www.ajc.com/things-to-do/coal-miners-fight-for-their-rights-in-atlanta-authors-historical-novel-rednecks/A4RTNA7XNVDUNFU4ACYS4DUXO4/

The West Virginia-Kentucky border has been home to volatile events from the Hatfields and McCoy Feud through coal Mining and the beginning of unions. This story is set during the later, with miners caught in the middle of a reckless job, violent union conflicts and poverty. Fraught with violence that rivals the Wild West, Rednecks delves into the lives of these characters and their plight for safe working and living conditions amidst racism and poverty-ism. Interesting and at times confounding, the plot moves through these events with heart wrenching detail and a need for triumph.

What a fascinating read about the struggles of the 1920s coal miners. It was eye opening of the physical and mental struggles they went through to fight for basic protection and rights. I always appreciate a novel that makes me want to learn more about history. This was also a beautiful story of friendship and the power of a community coming together.
Thank you for the advanced reader copy. It was one I won’t forget.

I was blown away by this story! Growing up in the south I have heard bits and pieces about this part of our history, but had no idea the scoop until I read this book. I highly recommend reading this. You will be furious, heartbroken, and inspired.

This was a very interesting retelling of a part of American history that I had no previous knowledge off. Rednecks is the story of the Battle of Blair Mountain between unionized Miners and Mine owners, state militia and the American Government in the largest labour uprising in American history.

The story was beautifully told by Brown and I really enjoyed a number of the characters. I found it a bit hard to follow at times as the author seemed to get a bit bogged down in details.

If you are interested in American history, give this one a read.

This novel offers a breathtaking portrayal of the early 20th-century struggles of West Virginia coal miners as they fought to unionize and secure their basic dignity and independence from mining companies. The story captivates with its stunning beauty and harrowing realities. Though fictional, the author’s meticulous research into the labor battles and real-life figures shines through in every character. It's a period of time that I previously knew nothing about and it peaked my interested to learn more. I recommend this book to people who like historical fiction.

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.

“Rednecks” by Taylor Brown is a poignant and evocative novel that transports readers to the heart of the American labor movement, specifically the Battle of Blair Mountain. Brown’s narrative is a masterful blend of historical fact and rich, imaginative storytelling that resurrects the voices of those who fought valiantly for workers’ rights in the coal mines of West Virginia.

The novel’s strength lies in its characters, particularly “Doc Moo” Muhanna, a Lebanese-American doctor whose compassion and dedication to the miners’ cause is as deep as the mines they toil in. Frank Hugham, a Black World War One veteran, and his grandmother, Beulah, are the embodiment of resilience and the human spirit’s unyielding desire for justice.

Brown’s prose is as rugged and powerful as the Appalachian landscape, with a narrative that is both intimate and grand in scope. He captures the essence of a time when the term “redneck” was redefined, not as a derogatory label, but as a badge of honor worn by those who dared to stand up against oppression.

“Rednecks” is more than just a historical novel; it is a timely reminder of the ongoing struggles for labor rights and equality. It is a story of unexpected friendships, heroism in the face of injustice, and the power of love and community against all odds. Taylor Brown has not only penned a compelling tale of America’s past but has also shone a light on the issues that continue to resonate today.

In conclusion, “Rednecks” is a must-read for anyone interested in the roots of American labor unions and the sacrifices made by those who paved the way for the rights we often take for granted. Brown’s storytelling is a tribute to the unsung heroes of the past and a call to remember the importance of solidarity in the face of adversity. A truly exceptional piece of literature that is both a century old and blisteringly contemporary.

As the great-granddaughter of a coal miner, I read this book with interest. I knew about the many clashes between the miners and the coal barons. I knew about the harsh working conditions and living conditions that the coal miners and their families suffered. I knew about the dangers of the job. I knew that those trying to unite were blacklisted. I did not know anything about the Battle of Blair Mountain.

This book is well researched, and is a story that should be told lest we forget the struggles that our forefathers overcame for a safe and fair work place. The Battle of Blair Mountain is an eye opener as to how far King Coal (the barons, czars) would go to undermine (no pun intended) miners and their families.

I received a free copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Thank you St. Martin's Press for allowing me to read and review Rednecks on NetGalley.

Published: 05/14/24

Stars: 4

First time reading about coal mining. I enjoyed the historical experience. The times were as dirty as all other periods of history that I've read or studied. I would like to reread to achieve fully the author's intent. Brown did a lot of research. I was caught up in the story and wonder how much history did I miss.

The characters are a mixed bag and sometimes confused me. However, I think it was the times and the need to survive.

These are coal miners, mountain men, union men: there is profanity.

The union henchmen sent in with orders versus the local miners and their families bring a lot of pain and suffering.

I was able to feel for most of the characters. However, I still don't fully understand Doc.

I recommend this.

In a sometimes disturbing but absorbing story, Taylor Brown tells the tale of an uprising of coal miners who became known as rednecks. The working conditions and total disregard for the miners’ safety led to the formation of a union. Hired by the mines’ owners, private security firms were used to evict miners who joined from their company owned homes. In May of 1920 the Baldwin-Felts agency came to Matewan, WV to evict the miners, which led to a shoot-out, killing the mayor as well as one of the Felts brothers. The miners moved to a tent city where they faced food shortages and squalid conditions. It was just the beginning of what would become an all out war. Sid Hatfield, Matewan’s sheriff, supported the miners and had their respect. When he was gunned down on the steps of a court house, miners from all over gathered in Marmet, donning the red bandana that would give them their name. The violence continued to escalate until the army was finally called in to end the rebellion.

Brown’s story is filled with memorable figures. Mary Harris Jones, known as Mother Jones, spoke in support of the Union and rallied the miners. She considered every one of them to be her boys. Doctor Muhanna, called Dr. Moo, was respected by the people of Matewan and would treat anyone of either side. Having witnessed the conditions in the tent city and the treatment of the miners, his conscience forced him to take a stand. Big Frank, warned by his grandmother, Miss Beulah, to always be careful, was randomly arrested and almost beaten to death. Saved by Dr. Moo, he realized that it was war between the miners and owners. He used his experiences in the war to help train the armed miners. This was an important event in American history that led to Americans’ rights to join a union. Brown brings the story to life in a way that will stay with the reader long after the last page. I would like to thank NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for providing this book.