Description:
Her courage and her heart will be tested in ways she never expected…
Beth Thatcher has spent her entire life in the safe, comfortable world of her family, her friends, and the social outings her father’s wealth provides. But Beth is about to leave it all behind to accept a teaching position in the rugged foothills of western Canada. Inspired by her aunt Elizabeth, who went west to teach school several years ago, and gently encouraged by her father, Beth resolves to put her trust in God and bravely face any challenge that comes her way.
But the conditions in Coal Valley are even worse than she’d feared. A recent mining accident has left the town grieving and at the mercy of the mining company. The children have had very little prior education, and many of the locals don’t even speak English. There isn’t even a proper schoolhouse. In addition, Beth’s heart is torn between two young men–both Mounties, one a lifelong friend and the other a kind, quiet man who comes to her aid more than once.
Despite the many challenges, Beth is determined to make a difference in the rustic frontier town. But when her sister visits from the East, reminding her of all the luxuries she’s had to give up, will Beth decide to return to her privileged life as soon as the school year is over?
Where Courage Calls begins with Beth Thatcher, who is following in the footsteps of her aunt and namesake, Elizabeth Thatcher from “When Calls the Heart”, one of my favorite Janette Oke series. She travels to the west to become a teacher in a very small town. Soon she grows to love the residents of Coal Valley and it becomes her home and the residents become her family.
The characters in this novel were just wonderful. Beth is so inspirational. She was always striving to be better and to honor God. She was caring, loving, intelligent, and compassionate. At times she was almost too good to be true but she certainly inspired me to be a better person, which is always good. Meet Molly, owner of the boarding house and Beth’s dear friend. Oh, what gems of wisdom Molly had! Not only that, but she was immediately lovable. And then there’s Edward and Jarrick (aka Jack). Edward was quite annoying at first, but as the book progressed he was much more likable. Jarrick seemed to come out of nowhere. You hardly noticed him at the first introduction but you slowly realize what a great character he is. Last but not least, the children! The kids were so cute and made the story a million times better.
I loved this novel! I was excited to cozy up and start reading it every night. Janette Oke has done it again, with the help of her daughter Laurel Oke Logan! I grew up on her books, and reading Where Courage Calls reminded me of why I love her so much. It was inspirational, encouraging, romantic, funny, and just plain enjoyable. Beth’s story in Where Courage Calls will stay with me for a very long time!
**I received this book for free from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts are completely my own.
LOVE, LOVE, LOVE your blog and this review Bekah!! I have a review blog also and love yours! Your bio is awesome..I could copy and paste that whole first line onto mine except I’m 15 not 19. 😉 Following you! 🙂
http://bookreviewsforchristianmenandwomen.blogspot.com/