The Ballad of Laurel Springs

In her evocative novel, Janet Beard delves into the haunting legacies of a family in eastern Tennessee, exploring themes of passion, violence, music, and faith across generations. Ten-year-old Grace uncovers a dark family secret linked to her great-grandfather's past, a gruesome deed memorialized in a murder ballad that shapes the lives of the women in her lineage. As they confront their tangled history and the lessons woven into folk songs like “Knoxville Girl,” they navigate the shadows of desire and danger while striving to carve out a safe existence. This stirring tale, rich in Appalachian folklore, captivates with its intricate character portrayals and emotional depth.