Picture a Dayton storyteller who spun tales of grit and mystery in 1920s Appalachia—meet Jess Montgomery! This acclaimed author, known for her Kinship Historical Mystery series, has captivated readers with her vivid prose and strong female characters. Inspired by Ohio’s first female sheriff, Montgomery’s novels blend historical depth with thrilling plots, making her a standout in contemporary historical fiction.
Beyond her books, Montgomery’s a literary force in her Ohio community, penning columns and nurturing writers. Ready to dive into her world? Let’s explore the life and stories of this remarkable author!
The Making of Jess Montgomery
Jess Montgomery, the pen name of Sharon Short, hails from Dayton, Ohio, where her roots in the literary scene run deep. Growing up in a region rich with history, she developed a love for storytelling that blended the past with human resilience. Before becoming a novelist, Montgomery honed her craft as a columnist for the Dayton Daily News, writing about books, authors, and the literary life. This experience sharpened her ability to weave compelling narratives, setting the stage for her leap into fiction.
Her shift to novels came with a spark of inspiration from Maude Collins, Ohio’s first female sheriff in 1925. This real-life figure became the cornerstone of Montgomery’s Kinship series, where she channels her passion for history and strong women into stories that resonate with modern readers.
Jess Montgomery’s Unforgettable Stories
Montgomery’s Kinship Historical Mystery series, starting with The Widows in 2019, introduces Lily Ross, a sheriff navigating love, loss, and corruption in 1920s Ohio. Inspired by Maude Collins, the novel weaves a tale of two women—a sheriff’s widow and a coal miner’s wife—seeking justice. Critics praised its rich historical detail and emotional depth, earning Montgomery an Ohio Arts Council grant.
The series continues with The Hollows (2020), exploring labor struggles and family secrets, and The Stills (2021), tackling Prohibition-era crime. The fourth book, The Echoes (2022), shifts to 1928, delving into mother-daughter bonds and lingering World War I ghosts. Montgomery’s style shines through her lyrical prose, vivid Appalachian settings, and themes of women’s resilience against societal barriers, making each book a layered, immersive read.
Her work stands out for its blend of historical accuracy and modern relevance, offering readers a lens into the challenges women faced in the early 20th century. Fans of historical fiction and mystery find her stories both thrilling and thought-provoking, cementing her place in the genre.
Why Jess Montgomery Matters
Jess Montgomery’s impact extends beyond her page-turning novels. By spotlighting strong women like Lily Ross, she honors trailblazers like Maude Collins while addressing timeless issues like gender equality and justice. Her Kinship series has earned critical acclaim, including praise from Mystery Scene for its unforgettable storytelling, and has built a loyal readership among historical fiction fans.
In Dayton, Montgomery’s contributions as a columnist and former Executive Director of the Antioch Writers’ Workshop have nurtured a vibrant literary community. Her work inspires aspiring writers and readers alike, proving that stories rooted in history can speak to today’s world. Montgomery’s legacy is one of storytelling that uplifts and empowers, making her a vital voice in contemporary fiction.
About Jess Montgomery
- Pen Name: Jess Montgomery is the pseudonym of Sharon Short.
- Key Works: The Widows (2019), The Hollows (2020), The Stills (2021), The Echoes (2022).
- Awards: Ohio Arts Council grant for literary arts.
- Hometown: Dayton, Ohio, where she wrote for the Dayton Daily News.
Snag The Widows and dive into Jess Montgomery’s thrilling world of historical mystery! Her tales of courage and Appalachia await—perfect for cozy nights and book club chats.