Saddle up and step into the vibrant world of Beverly Jenkins’ Old West series, where romance, history, and African-American stories blaze new trails in the Western genre! This captivating trilogy—Forbidden, Breathless, and Tempest—reimagines the 19th-century American West with heart-pounding love stories and sharp social commentary, proving that the frontier was far more diverse than traditional tales suggest.
With her signature wit and meticulous research, Jenkins crafts a world where Black heroes and heroines shine, challenging stereotypes and weaving narratives that are as educational as they are swoon-worthy. Ready to explore a West where love conquers all? Let’s dive in!
How Old West Began
Beverly Jenkins, a trailblazer in African-American historical romance, launched the Old West series in 2016 with Forbidden. Inspired by the often-overlooked contributions of Black Americans in the post-Civil War West, Jenkins sought to fill the gaps in traditional Western narratives. Her research, rooted in primary sources like The Journal of Negro History, uncovered stories of Black cowboys, entrepreneurs, and settlers, which she wove into her novels with authenticity and heart. Jenkins’ mission? To create inclusive romance that celebrates Black resilience and love against a rugged frontier backdrop.
The Heart of Old West
The Old West series kicks off with Forbidden (2016), where Eddy Carmichael, a determined cook, crosses paths with Rhine Fontaine, a saloon owner with a secret past. Their romance unfolds in Virginia City, Nevada, blending passion with themes of racial identity and community. Breathless (2017) follows Portia Carmichael, Eddy’s niece, a fiercely independent hotel manager who reconnects with drifter Kent Randolph in Arizona. Their slow-burn love story tackles trust and personal growth against a backdrop of women’s voting rights discussions.
Tempest (2018) wraps the trilogy with Regan Carmichael, Portia’s adventurous sister, who becomes a mail-order bride in Wyoming. Her unexpected shooting of her groom-to-be, Dr. Colton Lee, sparks a marriage-of-convenience tale filled with humor and heart. Across all three books, Jenkins explores themes of empowerment, family, and justice, highlighting the struggles of Black, Native, and Chinese communities. Her vivid settings and strong, witty heroines make the series a standout in historical romance.
Jenkins’ style is both cozy and bold, balancing steamy romance with gritty historical details, like the harsh realities of racial injustice or the vibrancy of multicultural frontier towns. Fans praise her for crafting characters who feel real and communities that pulse with life, making every page a journey.
Why Old West Resonates
The Old West series has left an indelible mark on historical romance by centering Black voices in a genre long dominated by white narratives. Jenkins’ work has earned accolades, including the 2016 Romantic Times Reviewers’ Choice Award for historical romance, and has inspired readers to explore African-American history. Her inclusive storytelling resonates with fans seeking diversity in romance, while her educational approach—blending love with history—has made the series a cultural touchstone.
Beyond its literary impact, Old West fosters a sense of pride and discovery, encouraging readers to rethink the West’s history. Its blend of heart, humor, and heritage ensures it remains a beloved gem for romance enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
- Publication Years: 2016–2018
- Number of Books: 3 (Forbidden, Breathless, Tempest)
- Awards: 2016 Romantic Times Reviewers’ Choice Award for historical romance
- Setting: Post-Civil War American West
Grab Forbidden and gallop into the Old West’s irresistible blend of romance and history—you won’t want to leave this vibrant frontier!