Marietta Native Jessica Raney Conjures Appalachian Magic in New Book
The year is two-thousand-twenty-four, and for author Jessica Raney, it marks a significant milestone—the release of her eighth book. But this isn’t just any release; it’s a homecoming. “Root and Bone,” a rural fantasy novel steeped in the lore and landscape of Appalachia, is a testament to Raney’s own roots and a captivating story of magic, murder, and sisterhood.
Whispers of Murder and the Magic of Kinship
Imagine a place where the mist clings to the mountains, and secrets linger in the hollers like morning fog. This is the setting for “Root and Bone,” where two witchy sisters find themselves at the heart of a chilling murder mystery in their quiet Appalachian town. The line between myth and reality blurs as they delve into the town’s dark underbelly, using their knowledge of folk magic and herbal medicine to uncover the truth.
This isn’t your run-of-the-mill whodunnit, though. Raney masterfully blends elements of mystery and fantasy, weaving a suspenseful tale that keeps you guessing until the very end. It’s a story that will appeal to fans of both genres, and then some. Think “Practical Magic” meets “Sharp Objects,” with a dash of Southern charm and a whole lot of heart.
From Marietta to the Mountains of Imagination
Though she now calls Houston home, Jessica Raney’s heart beats with the rhythm of the Mid-Ohio Valley. Raised in Lowell and a proud product of Fort Frye Local Schools, her connection to Marietta runs deep. It was during her time at Ohio University that her passion for writing blossomed, but it’s the spirit of her hometown that continues to infuse her work with a distinct sense of place.
There’s a certain magic woven into the fabric of Appalachia, a legacy of storytelling and folklore passed down through generations. It’s this magic that Raney bottles in “Root and Bone,” transporting readers to a world both familiar and extraordinary, where the past and present intertwine in a spellbinding embrace.
Honoring Heritage, Empowering Women
Inspiration can be found in the most unexpected places—a family photograph, a shared memory, a whispered story on a porch swing. For Jessica Raney, the seeds of “Root and Bone” were sown in the lives of two extraordinary women: her grandmother and great-aunt. These weren’t your average women; they were forces of nature, strong and independent in a time when society often dictated otherwise.
Raney’s grandmother, a true visionary, embraced progress and challenged the status quo, even in the conservative landscape of the 1950s. Her spirit of resilience and her unwavering belief in her own strength left an indelible mark on Raney, inspiring the fiercely independent female characters that populate her books.
Honoring Heritage, Empowering Women (Continued)
“My grandmother always said, ‘Why blend in when you were born to stand out?’” Raney shared in a recent interview. “She and my great-aunt were pioneers in their own right, defying expectations and embracing their individuality. They taught me the power of a woman who knows her own worth, and that’s a lesson I carry with me in my writing.”
“Root and Bone” is more than just a spooky tale; it’s a celebration of Appalachian heritage, a testament to the enduring strength of women, and a love letter to the art of storytelling. It’s a story that resonates on a deeply personal level, reminding us that magic can be found in the most ordinary of places, and that the stories we inherit from our past have the power to shape our present.
A New Chapter Unfolds
Exciting news for fans eager to delve deeper into this world of mountain magic: “Root and Bone” is just the beginning! This captivating tale marks the first installment in a planned series, promising more twists, turns, and supernatural intrigue to come.
Cursed Dragon Ship Publishing, a champion of genre fiction with a penchant for fresh voices and captivating narratives, is proud to bring Raney’s latest work to the world. With a commitment to showcasing diverse perspectives and pushing the boundaries of imagination, Cursed Dragon Ship provides a platform for authors like Raney to share their unique visions and enthrall readers.
Unearth the Magic: Your Appalachian Adventure Awaits
Ready to embark on a journey into the heart of Appalachia, where secrets whisper through the trees and magic simmers beneath the surface? “Root and Bone” is available now in both eBook and paperback formats.
You can find your copy at major retailers, including:
To delve deeper into the world of Jessica Raney and her captivating stories, be sure to visit her website or connect with her on social media!
