"Melinda and the Wild West," a Historical Fiction love story,
blends fascinating characters with Idaho's Bear Lake history and is
based on several true experiences. This story takes place in 1896. Melinda is from Boston and has come to Paris, Idaho to teach school. The idea
of going to the Wild West appeals to her. She wants to do some good in
someone s life and maybe she could do it by teaching school.
Intertwining fact and fiction, Melinda is confronted by many obstacles.

Melinda and the Wild West: A Family Saga in Bear Lake Valley, Idaho

Linda Weaver Clarke
Bedside Books (2006)
ISBN 1589823672
Reviewed by Debra Gaynor for Reader Views (10/06)


“Melinda and the Wild West” is a historical romance, loosely based on true events of the author’s great-great grandparents Gilbert and Sarah Weaver, the first pioneers who settled Paris, Idaho.  Linda Weaver Clarke has done a marvelous job of blending history, with fiction, romance and family remembrances.

Melinda found the invitation from her Aunt Martha enticing.  She’s never been out west.  A teaching position opened up in Paris, Idaho.  Against her mother’s objections she leaves her long time suitor, James, to head into an adventure.  When asked what she wants in life, Melinda says she wants “to do some good in the world, and perhaps make a difference in someone’s life.”  She hopes she can do that in the “West by teaching school.”

Bear Lake was lovely and Melinda knew she was going to enjoy her new home despite some of the “adventures” that lay ahead.  An outlaw chooses to rob the bank on the very day that Melinda decides to open an account.  The outlaws are none other than Butch Cassidy and Elza Lay. 

When Melinda takes a stroll to enjoy the fresh mountain air she finds a cool stream that entices her to do some wading.  She finds a stranger staring at her; his features take her breath away.  His name is Gilbert and he’s a widower raising his 8-year-old daughter, Jenny.  Jenny was one of Melinda’s students.  The other students were quick to tell their teacher all about Jenny, she’s been known to fight with other students and not try to learn, she’s been labeled a troublemaker.  By reaching out to Jenny, Melinda is drawn to Gilbert.

From the first page I was captivated by this book.  I had to continue reading, rushing to turn the page, I had to see what next adventure would catch up with Melinda. The plot is interesting mixing history with fiction, adventure with romance. Melinda is an endearing character and you can’t help but see things through her eyes.  Gilbert is strong and courageous.  I like this book!  This is good Christian fiction.  It is a great honor to highly recommend this book to readers of historical fictions and romance.  Ms Clarke, this is a piece to be proud of, well done!