Venture into the rugged heart of the American frontier with the Wilderness series, where adventure, survival, and the untamed Rockies collide! Penned by David Robbins, this sprawling saga follows Nathaniel King, a New York accountant turned mountain man, as he carves a life amidst wild beasts, fierce tribes, and breathtaking landscapes. With over 60 books, Wilderness is a thrilling blend of historical fiction and Western grit that’s captivated readers for decades.
Unlike typical Westerns, Wilderness weaves a generational tale, tracing Nathaniel’s family through love, loss, and epic battles. Its vivid storytelling and historical authenticity make it a standout, inviting readers to saddle up for a journey that’s as heartfelt as it is harrowing. Ready to explore the frontier? Let’s dive in!
How Wilderness Began
In 1990, David Robbins, writing initially as David Thompson, launched Wilderness with King of the Mountain. Inspired by the allure of the early 19th-century American West, Robbins crafted a saga rooted in the mountain man era, a time when only the bold dared venture beyond the Mississippi. His background in diverse fields—Air Force sergeant, broadcaster, law enforcement—infused his writing with a rugged realism that resonates with readers. The series, published by Dorchester and later Piccadilly, grew into a 35-year phenomenon, blending meticulous research with pulse-pounding action.
The Heart of Wilderness
The series kicks off with King of the Mountain (1990), where Nathaniel King leaves New York in 1828, lured by his Uncle Zeke’s promise of treasure. His journey transforms him from a city dweller into a skilled frontiersman, facing grizzly attacks and tribal encounters. Lure of the Wild (1990) deepens his saga, as Nate falls for a Shoshone woman, Winona, building a cabin in what’s now Estes Park, Colorado. Later, books like Black Powder Justice (1991) and Frontier Fury introduce Nate’s son, Zach, navigating new dangers, from scalp-hunting foes to treacherous trappers.
Wilderness shines through its themes of resilience, family, and cultural clash. Robbins paints the Rockies as both a paradise and a perilous frontier, where survival demands courage and cunning. The series balances gritty action—think bloody standoffs and daring rescues—with heartfelt moments, like Nate’s bond with Winona. Its historical detail, from Shoshone customs to mountain man lore, immerses readers in an authentic 1820s West, while its generational scope keeps the stakes personal and profound.
Why Wilderness Resonates
Wilderness stands as a titan in Western fiction, its 71 books and counting earning praise from outlets like Western Fiction and Pulp Rack for its authenticity and scope. Fans cherish its blend of high-stakes adventure and rich character arcs, making it a staple for historical fiction buffs. By portraying Native tribes with nuance—not just as foes but as complex communities—Robbins challenges stereotypes, adding depth to the genre. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to transport readers to a time when the frontier was a crucible for the human spirit.
- Publication Span: 1990–present
- Total Books: Over 71, including double editions
- Formats: Paperback, eBook, audiobook
- Setting: Early 19th-century Rocky Mountains
Ready to ride into the Rockies? Grab King of the Mountain and discover why Wilderness remains a thrilling cornerstone of Western adventure!