The Mountain Girl

The Mountain Girl by Payne Erskine is a novel set in the early 20th century exploring themes of healing community and self-discovery. The story follows David Thryng a young doctor from Canada who travels to the Appalachian Mountains seeking recovery from an illness. Upon arriving at Carew's Crossing he encounters a young woman named Cassandra and her family who offer him shelter and hospitality. The narrative delves into the lives of the mountain people their customs and their struggles as David becomes intertwined with their community. Through his interactions with Cassandra and her family David learns about resilience simplicity and the healing power of nature. The novel paints a vivid picture of the Appalachian landscape highlighting the beauty and challenges of life in the mountains. As David navigates his own journey of healing he discovers a deeper understanding of himself and the world around him ultimately finding a sense of belonging and purpose.