The Trail to Crooked Creek, a new romantic and adventurous novella in the Crooked Creek series is now here to fill your hours (and e-readers) with joy. It's also available in print for those who like to hold paper.
Join me, Leah Tennyson, and Wesley Davenport on a journey of strength, selflessness, and the profound impact of love.
For devoted e-readers:
Amazon Kindle (in KU)
For the paper people:
About The Trail to Crooked Creek
Everyday heroes who find the courage to believe in extraordinary love.
Two years after the devastations of war left their mark on a country torn apart, Wesley Davenport, a former soldier haunted by his experiences on the battlefield crosses paths with Leah Tennyson, a teacher who helps him heal his emotional wounds—and discovers unexpected love in the most unlikely place.
The Trail to Crooked Creek is a novella set in the breathtaking and sometimes unforgiving landscape of post-Civil War Montana Territory.
A note . . .
I knew in my heart that I was not ready to say farewell to my people in Crooked Creek, and even now this won't be the final story in the series. Wesley and Leah became so much more than I anticipated, and their adventures ended quite differently than I had planned. They are both, in a word, beautiful. Beautiful souls and beautiful hearts, albeit a bit bruised and in need of direction to overcome their own tragic pasts.
May you always have a fire to warm your body, a book to warm your mind, hope to warm your soul, and love to warm your heart. I hope you enjoy the book. —MK McClintock
Updated: Feb 13
The day began with me not wanting to get out of bed, so I started Laura Franz's The Seamstress of Acadie. I'm not too far in yet, but so far so good. I'm really drawn to the setting and way of life, and Blackburn. I'm excited to read more!
Coffee Cake, anyone?
Before we get to more books, let's have a look at this super delicious Cinnamon-Roll Coffee Cake. Now, it tastes nothing like a cinnamon roll except that it has cinnamon, a delicious topping, and is good enough to want all the time. I've had it for breakfast and dessert, and seriously, it doesn't get old. Then again, I'm a sucker for good coffee cake.
I just can't think about all the sugar, which is why this is not an all-the-time treat. This delectable creation features a tender cake base, generously swirled with a cinnamon mixture. As it bakes, the aroma of spice fills the air, creating an irresistible scent that will have everyone eagerly awaiting a slice.
One of the highlights of this coffee cake is the topping, which, when baked, it forms a crumbly and slightly crunchy caramel layer that adds a delightful texture to each bite.
To make this treat even more decadent, a cream cheese glaze can be drizzled over the top, but since I don't want to go into sugar shock, I haven't tried it that way.
Like most coffee cakes, this is a versatile treat that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a hot cup of coffee or tea. Its warm and comforting flavors make it ideal for cozy mornings, for a brunch, or when you simply want to treat yourself.
And, it freezes well!
For your convenience, you can download a PDF of the recipe below. It comes from Cuisine's Holiday Baking Volume 1 (I couldn't find the individual recipe online.). Find more of Cuisine's Holiday Baking editions.
Featured Book
Hopes and Dreams in Whitcomb Springs
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.
Book Recommendation
The Winter Witch
This recommendation comes from my mom, who is savoring every word of The Winter Witch by Paula Brackson. She tells me that Morgana is a fascinating character and that I'm a fool not to have read this one yet. I'm a great fan of Brackston's writing, and she does a wonderful job at both character and world-building. I have read, and recommend, The Silver Witch, also a part of the same series.
May you always have a fire to warm your body, a book to warm your mind, and love to warm your heart. —MK
Snow is falling. Again. Though not a lot. Again. This morning there was a layer of ice everywhere. Again.
It's been an odd winter.
Thank goodness for baking and books. Cakes, cobblers, muffins, breads, and more have filled the house with delicious scents all winter long. Studies (somewhere, and no doubt super scientific) have shown that engaging in baking activities can reduce stress levels, improve focus and concentration, and even boost overall mood and well-being.
I'm in 100% agreement.
The aroma of freshly baked bread, the sweet fragrance of muffins just out of the oven, and the tempting smell of a warm slice of cake will always be a cherished part of my childhood memories, and they are kept alive by the making of new and everyday kitchen adventures.
These memories are what prompted me to attend culinary school with dreams of opening a French bakery or becoming a world-renowned pastry chef. Thank goodness I started writing and discovered a new, deeper dream that allows me to be chef, baker, rancher, duchess, agent, and so much more across so many times and in a variety of places.
It is never too late to discover a new dream.
