It's been a few years since I wrote a Whitcomb Springs story. It's one of those series I cherish, but gets an installment only when I have time between other projects, or when I feel a strong need to visit the beautiful mountain town and its people.
This new collection includes a brand new novelette, "Whisper Ridge," along with three previous tales.
If you're new to Whitcomb Springs, you'll have some catching up to do! There are now ten short works in the series, and each one makes me want to pack up and head back to the nineteenth-century. Of course, immersing oneself in the stories is far easier.
It all began with Daniel and Evelyn Whitcomb, whose dream of a grand adventure in the Rocky Mountains became an unforgettable journey of love and perseverance in the face of loss. The war gave much to some, but for most, defending home, honor, and belief that the country could become a better place came with great sacrifice. Many remained and rebuilt while others were determined to forge a new life far away from the memories. The extraordinary resilience and faith of all those who found a way toward redemption and second chances should be remembered and honored. Monuments may crumble, statues may be needlessly destroyed, and reputations may be unkindly tarnished, but words of unwavering truth, acceptance, and forgiveness will survive. These imperfect characters face real-life heartaches and hardships, and like real life, they struggle with choices made during their worst moments. Those who are honest of heart and spirit, even if they lose their way for a time, deserve to be remembered for the good they have, can, and will do in the world.
156 years later, we can still learn from their resilience.
This is a series of hope, love, promises, and overcoming odds. Join us in laughter, tears, and joy as we experience the journeys, adventures, and sweet romances of Whitcomb Springs.
Be well, be kind, and enjoy! ~ MK
High in a mountain valley, a place for those who have loved and lost becomes a home for those who wish to hope and dream.
Set in post-Civil War Montana Territory, in the town of Whitcomb Springs, is a community of strong men and women who have worked to overcome individual struggles faced during and after the war. Amongst the majestic mountains, clear-water lakes, and hand-hewn homes, you will meet widows, heroes, mountain men, and others who seek a place of peace and renewal.
Meet a brave group of settlers whose stories and adventures celebrate the rich life of the American West with their tales of adventure, courage, mercy, tender romance, and hope for a good tomorrow.
Post updated in 2024 with the new/current cover.
Updated: Mar 13
My pal Samantha St. Claire released her Whitcomb Springs stories in a new collection. If you haven't read her Whitcomb tales yet, this is a great chance to enjoy them in one book.
“I feel certain most any reader will find something in this story with which to resonate.” —The Constant Reader
Discover the stories from a small Montana mountain town where in the post-Civil War years its residents begin to rebuild their lives. This collection of short fiction introduces its pioneers - war widows, wounded heroes, and drifters, those in search of a peaceful community in which to raise families and establish their legacy. Some stories will amuse you, while others will tug at your heartstrings. All deliver a powerful message of the pioneering courage and resilience that is our American heritage.
Find inspiration and hope. Visit Whitcomb Springs and those that live and love there.
Praise for Samantha's Whitcomb Stories
"I feel certain most any reader will find something in this story with which to resonate. Who among us, in our determination to be self-sufficient, has not undertaken a load too heavy, a road too rough - and come to understand, in a moment of doubt, that what we need is not to be rescued, but the trust of someone who believes in us? This ideal carries through Samantha St. Claire's enjoyable, uplifting writings. You'll find an offering of faith in "Tracking Amy." I hope you'll read it and share it with someone you love."
~The Constant Reader on "Tracking Amy"
"I had fun reading this short story! I kept wanting to find out about the characters and there was the perfect balance of background info and curiosity of each. I highly recommend this story!!" ~Kindle Reader on "Tracking Amy"
"An exciting, heart-warming western love story! 'Healing Fire' is a beautiful and sweet story, very well written by Samantha St. Claire! This short novella has good flow, charming characters and everything to please lovers of western romances." —Nicole Laverdure
"Samantha St, Claire's HEALING FIRE is a lovely read! I felt like I was there in the yard, my back leaning against a fence post, as I watched events unfold." —Amazon Customer
Updated: Mar 13
Emma, Hattie, Briley, and Clara are the women of a rugged and beautiful mountain town known as Crooked Creek. Set in post-Civil War Montana Territory, the stories tell of women are tender and strong, and men who are are honorable and chivalrous. Together, they all find a way to overcome the obstacles life and the aftermaths of war have thrust upon them.
10 Reasons to Escape to Crooked Creek
It's a great place to visit when you want to get away from the world. Whether you're there for a few minutes, a few hours, or a few days, you'll want to return again and again.
It's never boring. Seriously, from welcoming strangers and new babies, to figuring out how to survive a first winter or avoid dangers on the frontier, there's always something exciting happening in Crooked Creek.
It's a beautiful place. If majestic mountains, fresh air, big skies, and cool, clean water are your thing, then you'll feel right at home.
The people are wonderful. The women are strong, independent, and ready to persevere no matter what life and nature throws their way. The men are honorable, courageous, and ready to do whatever it takes to protect their families and town. However imperfect as individuals, they are perfect together.
Everyday tasks are an adventure. There are no appliances, telephones, televisions, and indoor plumbing isn't exactly commonplace, but every time a loaf of bread comes from the oven, vegetables are gathered from the garden, or you ride from one place to the next on the back of a horse while watching the sunset, you won't mind a few inconveniences.
New beginnings. Have you ever wanted to start over? Well, you'll be in good company in Crooked Creek. Everyone ends up there because they are escaping their past, fallout from the war, or they just need a new beginning in a welcoming place.
Opportunity. Crooked Creek is a small town. Like, really small. When Clara opened her inn, she didn't realize quite what she was in for. But, it worked out for her because it is a place of opportunity. Remember new beginnings? Well, with those comes the chance to build a new life, start a new business, or learn more about yourself.
Quiet. Other than the occasional gunshot, unexpected emergency, or the sound of the blacksmith pounding away on his anvil, Crooked Creek is a relatively quiet town. In the early morning hours, you can stand on your porch or walk in the woods (careful of bears) and hear only the soft sounds of nature awakening. There are plenty of places to find hours on end of peace and quiet.
You'll gain appreciation for what you have. Remember the part about everyday tasks being an adventure? We're lucky with all our modern conveniences and instant gratification, but the folks in Crooked Creek don't have much choice to toil over what we take for granted.
It's always there. If you have to walk away for a few minutes, or a few days, Crooked Creek will await your return. It's one of the best escapes you'll ever have.
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