Scarlett of the Mounted

"Scarlett of the Mounted" by Marguerite Merington is an early 20th-century novel set in a lawless mining camp teeming with boisterous miners and captivating women. It follows Sergeant Scarlett of the Mounted Police as he struggles to maintain order while dealing with the confusing arrival of Evelyn Durant, the daughter of a miner who isn't exactly who he appears to be. The story begins at Lost Shoe Creek with Parson Maclane as he enters the chaotic scene and encounters a group of unruly miners with their playful banter that hides a world of temptation and darkness. Scarlett faces off with Bully Nick, while we also meet Evelyn's father Matthew Durant who appears to be chasing a fake claim. The story builds a world of desire, reputation, and morality as the characters grow and change as the story unfolds in its setting.