The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek
- Judith D Collins
- 2 days ago
- 14 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
Deluxe Collectors Limited Edition
The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek #1
Narrator: Katie Schorr
Blackstone Audio
ISBN: 978-1464246524
Publisher: Sourebooks Landmark
Publication Date: 11/04/2025
Format: Paperback
Deluxe Collectors Limited Edition
My Rating: 5 Stars +
THE LIMITED EDITION COLLECTOR'S EDITION WITH DESIGNED EDGES!
The bestselling historical fiction novel from Kim Michele Richardson, this is a novel following Cussy Mary, a packhorse librarian and her quest to bring books to the Appalachian community she loves, perfect for readers of William Kent Kreuger and Lisa Wingate. The perfect addition to your next book club!
The hardscrabble folks of Troublesome Creek have to scrap for everything―everything except books, that is. Thanks to Roosevelt's Kentucky Pack Horse Library Project, Troublesome's got its very own traveling librarian, Cussy Mary Carter.
Cussy's not only a book woman, however, she's also the last of her kind, her skin a shade of blue unlike most anyone else. Not everyone is keen on Cussy's family or the Library Project, and a Blue is often blamed for any whiff of trouble. If Cussy wants to bring the joy of books to the hill folks, she's going to have to confront prejudice as old as the Appalachias and suspicion as deep as the holler.
Inspired by the true blue-skinned people of Kentucky and the brave and dedicated Kentucky Pack Horse library service of the 1930s, The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek is a story of raw courage, fierce strength, and one woman's belief that books can carry us anywhere―even back home.
The collector's edition includes: Bonus Content, New Photos, Revamped cover, Designed edges, Foil cover details & French flaps
For autograph copies, order at Carmichaels and they will happily ship
Your Local library and where ever books are sold
About the Author
Photo Credit: Leigh Photography
A native-born Kentuckian, Kim Michele Richardson is the New York Times, L.A. Times, USA Today bestselling author who has written six novels, a memoir and most recently, two children’s picture books. The works have been published in more than 18 languages.
Her novel The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek is taught widely in high schools and college classrooms and has been adopted as a Common Read selection by states, cities, and colleges across the country and abroad, and was a Favorite Read by Dolly Parton in People’s Magazine. Kim Michele was inducted into the Kentucky Women’s Remembers Exhibit in 2025 by Gov. Andy Beshear for her contributions to Kentucky, and was awarded a Doctorate in Humanities from Eastern Kentucky University. She lives with her family in Kentucky and is the founder of Shy Rabbit, a writers residency, and a literacy initiative Courthouses Reading Across Kentucky & Beyond. WEBSITE
Exceptional Authors.
Standout Books. Elevator Talk.
Behind the Scenes with New York Times Bestselling Author Kim Michele Richardson & The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek.
NOTE: Taken from my #AuthorElevatorSeries Q&A with Michele in May 2019, when the original Book Woman was released. Welcome, Kim!
Behind the Book
Give Us Your "Best" Elevator Pitch for—
THE BOOK WOMAN OF TROUBLESOME CREEK
"Inspired by the true and historical blue-skinned people of Kentucky and the brave and dedicated Kentucky Pack Horse library service of the Depression, The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek showcases a historical first for the introduction of Pack Horse Librarians in literary novels — a tale of fierce strength and one woman's belief that books can carry us anywhere — even back home."
Q. What drew you to the stories of the packhorse librarians and the blue-skinned people of Kentucky?
As a Kentuckian, I’ve always loved and deeply admired the heroic librarians of the Great Depression, and years ago when I learned about the rare blue-skinned Kentuckians, I couldn’t stop thinking about them. I wanted to embrace both their strengths and uniqueness in the story. There was such rich, magnificent history in the two, I was surprised I hadn’t seen them in a novel, that neither had been given a footprint in literary history with the exception of two wonderfully-done children’s books. I knew it was time for the wider world to experience them in a novel, to learn about, to see, the glorious, Kentucky female packhorse librarians and the precious blue-skinned mountain folk.
Q. Your novel is deeply rooted in the history of Appalachia, what research did you do to bring this time period to life?
Research is my favorite part of the writing process. BOOK WOMAN was nearly five years in the making, and I spent thousands of hours exploring everything from fauna to flora to folklore to food, and longtime traditions indigenous to Appalachia. I’m also able to live in that landscape and spend time with the native Appalachians who have taught me the lyrics and language of their people and ancestors. Other research took me to coal-mining towns and their history, visiting doctors, speaking with a hematologist to learn about congenital Methemoglobinemia, and exploring fire tower look-outs and their history. Years ago, I started collecting everything I could find on the packhorse librarians, poring over archives, old newspapers, pictures, the history, etc. I spent many hours on Roosevelt’s New Deal and WPA programs, and also conducted interviews. And last, there was the fun and interesting research on mules.
Q. What does your writing process look like?
I’ve long been a kitchen table author—one who sets aside the recipe, forsakes the rules—the do’s and don’ts, the shant’s, shouldn’ts and won’ts. This doesn’t mean I don’t respect the rules—it simply allows me the unleashed freedom to create the story intimately and lyrically, as if I’m sitting at my kitchen table across from you and telling it. There’s the occasional detour, of course, and sometimes I take out the guardrails going 100 mph. And there are the piles of research papers, the countless scraps and sticky notes littered everywhere in my office, on my desk and shelves.
My dear husband usually creates cool, detailed drawings of my fictional towns to anchor and keep me straight. At all times, there are my beloved rescue pets wandering in and out of my office. Music is a must-have, and I try to create a playlist to reflect the moods and themes in my stories. My musical influence is broad, passionate, and can dip into everything from opera to bluegrass to rock, and on to classical, big band, jazz, rap, country, and indie. During edits, all is quiet, and I’m slow, turtle-slow, and also painfully meticulous, and can absolutely sit on a single paragraph for days, working and fretting it. I generally devote anywhere from 8 to 14 hours a day to writing, research and book-related stuff.
Q. Did your own experiences living in Kentucky inspire or influence any of the descriptions in the book?
Yes, Kentucky is both a beautiful and brutal place full of fascinating history, varied landscapes, complex people and culture, and I’m fortunate to live in a region that I can draw on from the heart.
Q. Do you see any similarities between yourself and Cussy? Differences?
I grew up under the grinding heels of poverty, spending my first decade in a rural Kentucky orphanage and then on to foster care, and beyond, to finding myself homeless at age fourteen. I can relate to marginalized people and have much empathy for Cussy and her family, anyone who has faced or faces prejudices and hardships. It’s easy to feel their pain deeply, particularly if you’ve gone through hardships in your own life.
Q. If you had to choose, what is one of your favorite moments from the novel?
One of my dearest moments is when young Angeline takes Cussy Mary’s hand despite knowing the implication of being friendly with a blue hand and rings a simple truth by saying, “Hain’t no harm. Our hands don’t care they’s different colors. Feels nice jus’ the same, huh?”
Q. Throughout the novel, we see the positive effects the packhorse library service has on this small, remote community. Do you think libraries still have that kind of impact today?
Absolutely, and now more than ever. As I mentioned earlier, I was raised in an orphanage. Later, as a foster child in 1970, I remember going to my first library one lonely summer and checking out a book. The librarian sized me up and then quietly said, “Only one? You look smarter than a one-book read, and I bet we can find you more than just one.” She reached under her counter, snapped open a folded, brown paper sack, handed it to me, and then marched me over to shelves filled with glorious books. I was shocked that I could even get more than one book, much less a bag full of precious books, and I was moved by her compassion, kindness, and wisdom. Librarians are lifelines for so many, giving us powerful resources to help us become empowered.
Q. What are some of your favorite libraries to visit?
I love hitting the backroads to seek out small-town libraries. These places are treasured cornerstones filled with special mores—hidden gems that offer an opulence of customs, inspiration and warm hospitality.
Q. Who are some of your favorite authors to read?
There are so many talented writers out there to pick from, it makes the choice difficult. However, one influence and much-loved author of mine has always been E.B. White. Charlotte's Web is a jewel that tapped into my love for nature and animals. And every time I read it, I learned something new. It has that wonderful Hitchcockian first line: "Where is papa going with that axe?" and is infused with magical verses of dewy spider webs, "Some Pig" miracles and unconditional friendship. Some Book—Some Author! Harriette Simpson Arnow, John Fox, Jr., Gwyn Hyman Rubio and Walter Tevis, are some of my longtime, favorite, Kentucky novelists who wrote unforgettable masterpieces. Each one brings the pages to life with rich, evocative landscapes, beautifully told stories and highly skilled prose.
Q. What do you hope readers will ultimately take away from Cussy’s story?
Poverty and marginalization are not so much economics or politics or societal issues as much as they are human issues. They are best grappled with by reaching deep into the lives of those suffering them. Knowing one small piece of this world—the earth, the sky, the plants, the people and the very air of it—helps us understand the sufferings and joys of others—ourselves.
Continue reading below for more up close and personal with the author!
Behind the Author
1. BIRTH STATE?
Kentucky
2. CURRENT STATE?
Kentucky and part-time Western North Carolina
3. ZODIAC SIGN?
Libra
4. FAVORITE COLOR?
Green
5. FAVORITE FOOD/DRINK?
Bread and bread and bread and ice tea
6. MORNING/NIGHT PERSON?
Afternoon
7. DOG/CAT LOVER? (or neither):
Both
8. FAVORITE HOBBY?
Over the years I have enjoyed volunteering, building for Habitat for Habitat, though with meeting deadlines, tours and writing books lately, I haven’t been able to in a while. Gardening is another favorite.
9. FAVORITE TYPE OF MUSIC?
I’m all across the board on my music, anything from rap to rock, opera, blues, country and on.
10. FAVORITE HOLIDAY OR SEASON?
Fall
11. FAVORITE READING FORMAT?
Paperback and Audio
These old eyes like paperback for ease, and I love audio for car rides and chores
.
12. FAVORITE TV SERIES? (or Movie/Video Binge-watch)
I’m not a big TV fan, but I stop everything for Wednesday night to watch “Survivor”. I haven’t missed but a handful of episodes since it started. It’s comfort food for the mind and a nice homecoming of sorts. And since I am a Kentucky gal, “Justified” was a series I very much enjoyed and always recommend to others.
13. IF YOU WERE GRANTED 3 MONTHS OF UNINTERRUPTED WRITING TIME—WHERE WOULD IT BE? #2
2. A Quiet Scenic Mountain Cabin surrounded by nature
Since I have done this many times in the mountains of Western North Carolina and had a shoebox of an apartment there, it will be the quiet mountain cabin.
14. WHEN YOU RECEIVE A SPARK OF INSPIRATION FOR A BOOK:
1. Do you immediately get out of bed or stop what you are doing and start typing? Totally immersed
Everything is immediate, and a friend gave me a pack of Aqua Notes if that tells you anything.
15. YOUR FAVORITE PLACE TO WRITE?
Any place that provides a window to nature.
16. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE BREAKFAST?
I have toasted muffins with peanut butter and berries atop almost every day, so I have to say that might be my favorite.
17. YOUR FIRST CAR?
My first was this old, rust-bucket, wood-paneled station wagon. I rode it to death until one day I was at the laundromat and was heading home and the drive gear went out and I could only use the reverse. I tried to sneak it back home down side-streets and alleys a few miles. Alas, it didn't make it and bit the dust for good.
18. WHAT BOOK (s) IS CURRENTLY ON YOUR NIGHTSTAND? (2019 QA)
IN THE TRAIL OF THE WIND, by Bierhorst, NEWS OF THIS WORLD, Paulette Jiles, THE FARM, Wendell Berry, and THE COMMON MAN, Maurice Manning
19. YOUR FAVORITE SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORM? (or would you prefer none of them).
I enjoy visiting Instagram.
20. WHAT INSPIRES YOU?
Besides nature, I find inspiration in talking with the elderly and learning of their lives and old ways.
21. WHICH ONE OF YOUR BOOK (s) TITLES WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE A MOVIE BASED UPON? (or TV series)
I would absolutely love to see my fearsome, brave BOOK WOMAN, Cussy Mary, atop her mule, riding up the Kentucky hills and across creeks to deliver literacy to the mountain folk, but I would also love to see GODPRETTY IN THE TOBACCO FIELD come to life on the screen, too.
22. WHAT IS THE MOST MEMORABLE PLACE YOU HAVE TRAVELED (or) WHAT DO YOU LOVE BEST ABOUT THE AREA WHERE YOU LIVE?
For over a decade, I’ve been running back and forth to Swain and Jackson Counties of Western North Carolina. I adore the people and the small community.
23. NAME TWO THINGS YOU CONSIDER YOURSELF TO BE VERY GOOD AT?
Laundry Queen, also what’s first on my business cards, because when my daughter was in Kindergarten, the teacher asked each student their parents’ profession, and since this was always something my mister fondly called me, my daughter proudly announced Laundry Queen to the class.
And I’m an extremely fast one-finger typist.
23. FAVORITE HORROR (or love story) MOVIE?
“The Birds” did me in for future horror movies, but I have several favorites in romance,
“Ghost”, “An Officer And A Gentleman” and “The Fault In Our Stars”.
25. FAVORITE FLOWER?
Sunflower
26. INTROVERT OR EXTROVERT?
A little of both, leaning more toward introvert the older I get.
27. WHAT IS SOMETHING YOU CANNOT LIVE WITHOUT? (excluding computer, tablet, phone)
I have a favorite pillow and soft, worn quilt I carry when traveling. Yeah, I’m that baby.
28. A FAVORITE CHARACTER FROM YOUR BOOK (S)?
RubyLyn of GODPRETTY IN THE TOBACCO FIELD.
There was also Henny, Baby Jane, Ada, Rose Law, Dusty and Dirty—all of the women of GODPRETTY who faced poverty, injustices, and with grace and grit.
And we had the strict patriarch, Gunner, who was a retired executioner for the state that had his moral compass compromised.
29. WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO BE REMEMBERED FOR?
Kindness with maybe a little dash or two of feisty and fierceness.
30. IF YOU WERE STUCK IN AN ELEVATOR ALONE WITH ONE CELEBRITY OR AUTHOR (or both) — WHO WOULD IT BE? (Male or Female)
Hah, I was so stuck in an elevator once with actor John Forsythe.
But if I could choose, it would be President Jimmy Carter. I think he’s fascinating and a beautiful humanitarian.
And Dolly Parton! Dolly’s a fierce book woman with her Imagination Library Foundation, and we could talk big books.
Thank you, Kim, for spending time with us today!
My Review
Renowned New York Times bestselling author, Kim Michele Richardson, a cherished favorite of mine for many years, reintroduces a gem from 2019 that captivated my heart. My top choice for Southern historical and literary fiction that year, “The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek,” is now elegantly reimagined in a stunning Deluxe Collector's Limited Edition paperback.
This elegantly crafted collector’s edition is a feast for the senses, featuring an array of bonus content that enhances the reading experience. Inside, you’ll find captivating new photographs and a revamped cover, complemented by intricately designed edges adorned with elegant foil accents and sumptuous French flaps.
The exquisite details extend far beyond aesthetics; they offer a rich tapestry of historical context and personal insights. Within its pages, you’ll discover handwritten Kentucky superstitions, practical household hints inspired by the courageous Pack Horse Librarians, and delicious recipes from Appalachia, including a special dish from the author herself. The edition also showcases poignant newspaper clippings and photographs from the Pack Horse Library Project, an intimate conversation with the author, a comprehensive reading group guide, valuable resources, and a heartfelt letter from Kim.
This stunning edition deserves a place in every library, a true treasure to behold. Plus, it offers an exciting sneak peek into Kim's upcoming release on April 21, 2026, titled “THE MOUNTAINS WE CALL HOME: The Book Woman's Legacy.” My anticipation for this new story is palpable!
Reflecting on my original review from 2019:
“The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek” by Kim Michele Richardson is a mesmerizing piece of historical fiction set against the backdrop of 1930s Kentucky. It follows the remarkable journey of Cussy Mary Carter, a young woman burdened with a rare genetic condition that turns her skin blue. Despite her challenges, Cussy serves as a passionate and dedicated librarian for the Pack Horse Library Project, delivering books to those in need.
As an avid admirer of Kim’s work, I can confidently say this novel is her best yet! Deeply entrenched in the rich tapestry of Appalachian history, it stands as a "must-read" for every book lover, blogger, author, teacher, historian, librarian, and especially for those with ties to the South. The story is rich in character and emotion—a moving narrative of hope that will have you laughing and crying in equal measure.
Set in Kentucky in 1936, this haunting tale is a testament to one woman’s unyielding belief that books can transport us anywhere, even back home. Meticulously researched and eloquently penned, I found myself unable to put “The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek” down. It masterfully weaves fact and fiction into a seamless narrative.
You will be enthralled by the insights into Roosevelt's Kentucky Pack Horse Library Project and the valiant spirit of Cussy Mary Carter, a blue-skinned heroine. Despite facing mistreatment and insurmountable obstacles, her resilience shines brightly; she is truly unstoppable! I became enamored with her character and her loyal mule companion, Junia—a heartwarming duo that will linger with you long after the final page is turned.
The book is laden with intriguing historical information. Kim leaves no stone unturned, delving into the lives of the blue-skinned Fugates of Kentucky and their struggles for justice. Her intimate knowledge of her home state is palpable.
The Pack Horse project transformed countless lives, showcasing the bravery of the men and women who traversed treacherous terrain on horseback or by foot to deliver vital resources to isolated communities.
Having read all of Kim’s novels (she is undoubtedly one of my favorite Southern authors), I fell in love with her writing from the very beginning. Her strength, resilience, and determination reflect the spirit of her character, Cussy. Both women navigate an array of challenges with grace and determination; nothing will keep them down.
Kim’s authenticity and compassion shine through in her work. Her meticulous attention to detail is commendable, and her storytelling is nothing short of masterful. If you haven't yet experienced her brilliance, I wholeheartedly recommend that you delve into her books. “The Book Woman” should undoubtedly be at the pinnacle of your reading list! I can easily envision a film adaptation that brings this incredible story to the screen.
I am continually amazed by Kim's literary talent and her profound love for words, people, places, and history. Her passion resonates in every book she writes, as well as in her philanthropic efforts both in and out of her community. I am eager to share with you her latest bold, altruistic project that exemplifies her commitment to giving back. Kim has built a tiny home in the wilds of Kentucky, a writers / artists residency, named Shy Rabbit, for writers who seek a contemplative and tranquil place to work and create. A NYC literary and film agent will review and select from the applicants.
Kim, you are truly born to tell this extraordinary story! What a remarkable gift you possess.
A special thanks to Sourcebooks Landmark for gifting a beautifully finished autographed paperback copy. #LandmarkPartner
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
My Rating: 5 Stars +
Pub Date: Nov 4, 2025
The Mountains We Call Home
Kim Michele Richardson Returns to Kentucky with The Mountains We Call Home! (Exclusive)‘The book club favorite's newest novel examines 'strength, survival and the magic of the printed word'
In a standalone to the bestselling Book Woman series comes a heroine for the ages, legendary book woman Cussy Lovett returns in The Mountains We Call Home. A journey that will transport you through the rugged Appalachians, to a Kentucky prison and its nearby 1950s bustling business district of Louisville, to a quaint Ohio town and into Detroit’s golden age and beyond.
The Mountains We Call Home is a powerful testament of strength, survival and the magic of the printed word wrapped into a vivid portrait which examines criminalization, exploring the effects on the poor and powerless, the societal consequences of fractured family bonds along with the nostalgic glimpses of a bustling multifaceted business district. Meticulously researched, richly detailed with a new cast of absorbing and complex characters, and glimpses of beloved older ones: this beautifully rendered, authentic Kentucky tale is gritty and heartbreaking and infused with hope, spirit and courage known only to those with no way out.
COMING APRIL 21, 2026
