3.93
Part of "Ballad" series
"Ghost Riders" by Sharyn McCrumb is a haunting and evocative novel that blends history, folklore, and mystery in a tale that spans centuries. The story is set in the Appalachian Mountains, a region that McCrumb knows well and brings to life with vivid descriptions and a deep understanding of its people and culture. The novel centers around the legend of the Ghost Riders, a group of Confederate soldiers who are said to ride through the mountains at night, forever searching for the battle they lost. The legend has been passed down through generations, and many people in the region believe it to be true. When a young lawyer named Nora Bonesteel moves to the area, she becomes intrigued by the legend and begins to investigate its origins. As she delves deeper into the history of the region, she discovers a dark secret that has been buried for over a century. McCrumb skillfully weaves together multiple storylines, including Nora's investigation, the tale of the Ghost Riders, and the history of the region during the Civil War. The characters are well-drawn and believable, and the dialogue is authentic and engaging. One of the strengths of "Ghost Riders" is McCrumb's ability to bring the region to life. She captures the beauty and harshness of the mountains, the tight-knit communities, and the deep-seated traditions that define the area. The novel is also a meditation on the power of legend and the ways in which the past can continue to shape the present. "Ghost Riders" is a beautifully written and deeply moving novel that will appeal to fans of historical fiction, mystery, and folklore. It is a testament to McCrumb's storytelling abilities and her deep understanding of the Appalachian region and its people...
Michael Shaara
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