A Cumberland Vendetta   By: John Fox (1863-1919)

A Cumberland Vendetta is a gripping tale of love, revenge, and the unforgiving nature of the Appalachian Mountains. Set in the rugged countryside of Kentucky during the late 19th century, John Fox masterfully weaves together a story that is both hauntingly beautiful and deeply unsettling.

The story follows the feud that arises between the Harkins and the Falin families, two long-standing adversaries with a history of bloodshed and animosity. As the tensions escalate, the precarious balance between justice and vendetta becomes the driving force behind the narrative. The author cleverly explores the various themes of loyalty, duty, and the destructive power of unchecked rage.

Fox's vivid descriptions transport the reader to the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, allowing them to experience the enchanting yet dangerous landscape firsthand. From the dense forests to the mist-covered mountains, the author effortlessly captures the essence of this wild and untamed territory, immersing the reader in the story and giving it an authentic backdrop.

At the core of A Cumberland Vendetta are the characters, each meticulously crafted and richly developed. The protagonists, Judd, and Mary Harkins, epitomize the resilience and determination of the Appalachian people. As they navigate their way through tragedy and sorrow, their undying love fuels their relentless pursuit of justice.

One of the book's strengths lies in the author's ability to portray the intricate dynamics of family and community in this harsh environment. The characters' ties to their kin, as well as their unwavering loyalty to their values, highlight the complex and often conflicting motivations that drive them.

Although the book is beautifully written, it does suffer from a somewhat slow and uneven pace at times. The author spends ample time delving into the historical context and the intricate details of the region, which, while fascinating, may prove distracting to some readers. However, for those who appreciate a more immersive reading experience, this attention to detail serves to enhance the overall atmosphere and authenticity of the story.

A Cumberland Vendetta is a captivating tale that explores the infinite power of love and the dangerous consequences of allowing vengeance to consume one's soul. John Fox's masterful storytelling and evocative descriptions make this novel an unforgettable journey through the rugged and untamed landscape of the Cumberland Mountains. It is a must-read for those who crave a thought-provoking and emotionally charged narrative.

First Page:

Parting the bushes toward the dim light, they stood on a massive shoulder of the mountain, the river girding it far below, and the afternoon shadows at their feet. Both carried guns the tall mountaineer, a Winchester; the boy, a squirrel rifle longer than himself. Climbing about the rocky spur, they kept the same level over log and bowlder and through bushy ravine to the north. In half an hour, they ran into a path that led up home from the river, and they stopped to rest on a cliff that sank in a solid black wall straight under them. The sharp edge of a steep corn field ran near, and, stripped of blade and tassel, the stalks and hooded ears looked in the coming dusk a little like monks at prayer. In the sunlight across the river the corn stood thin and frail. Over there a drought was on it; and when drifting thistle plumes marked the noontide of the year, each yellow stalk had withered blades and an empty sheath... Continue reading book >>