That Which Binds Us vividly captures the feel of Appalachia, from the people to the land, as told from the perspectives of five very different characters brought together during the turmoil and devastation of the Civil War. Irish immigrant Patrick, liberal-minded schoolteacher Marilee, banjo playing Ben, strong-willed dreamer Elizabeth, and Red Hopkins, Freemason and general wise old soul — their stories weave in and around each other in the mountains of Virginia. Part love story, part reflection of the effect a brutal war had on the American south, this mildly faith-based historical novel is an engaging read.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for the opportunity to read and review this book.

Lovely historical fiction set in SW Virginia in the years culminating the Civil War. Told through the perspectives of lives interwoven with one another in a hard time.A rugged, yet breathtaking setting sets the scene for how our relationships with one another can help us truly survive. Highly recommended! #thatwhichbindsus #cathyrigg #netgalley #goodreads

An adventure through the landscape of the Appalachians, this historical fiction is a fascinating journey through the past using the real lives of the people who lived and died amongst the mountains. This novel explores themes of love, loss and family, while navigating the political landscape of the time, including war and opinions on the slave trade. Using a range of narrative voices, Rigg successfully explores the different perspectives and moods of the characters to tell an engaging story which is entirely different to anything I've read before.

“For if it should prove to be God’s will that her heart never recovered or her resolve never faded, I would spend the rest of my days loving Elizabeth Young Grubb the only way I could: from afar.”


Multiple Viewpoints 🔍
Historical Fiction 📖
Faith 🙏🏼
Family 🧑‍🧑‍🧒‍🧒

This was a sweet historical fiction full of love and heartbreak set in the Appalachian mountains of SW Virginia. This takes place during the years leading up to and through the Civil War. We see glimpses of reluctant mountaineers who wanted nothing to do with the war. I had never really thought much about the women and children left behind when conscription was enforced.

I loved the sweet young romance and the love fought for after the war had hardened the hearts of so many.

It took me a bit to get all of the characters straight with the multiple viewpoints but it added a lot of depth once you got into the story.

Patrick Hagan will be your new favorite book boyfriend. 🫶🏼

I also really appreciated the Author’s Note to give context to the real people and imagined characters.

Thank you to #NetGalley and Turner Publishing Company for the ARC of this book. Opinions are my own. #ThatWhichBindsUs