My Thoughts:
Where Courage Calls, written by Janette Oke and Laurel Oke Logan, is a lovely story detailing the adventures of Beth Thatcher, a privileged young lady on the journey of a lifetime. I have fond memories of reading Love Comes Softly many years ago as a teen and when approached to review Where Calls Courage, I was truly excited! The story had a bit of slow beginning but I quickly fell in love with Beth. She's an inspiring heroine with tremendous inner strength, a tender heart and an unfailing love of the Lord. When Beth leaves the comforts (and pressures) of home to teach in the small mining village of Coal Valley she really has no idea what's waiting for her at the end of her travels...
Where Courage Calls had so many shining moments! The story truly touched my heart. I loved the characters and the tender relationships that developed as the story rolled along. Molly, the mothering Irish lady that runs a guest house, deserves a book all her own! She's pure gold...
"You ain't better- just richer an' better schooled." Molly chuckled, then sighed and dried her hands. "The world's not fair, dearie. It don't help 'em none to pretend otherwise. Your comin' is gonna make it clear that others got more'n them. A child don't know what their lackin' till they see somebody else got more. But I hope you can help 'em figure it out past that too- that with the learnin' comes better chances in life. Just help 'em see that books'll take 'em further than slaving away here."
I also fell in love with Frank, a kindly Italian immigrant who watched over the widows and children of Coal Valley...
When his voice came again, it was controlled and resigned. "I lost my Colette in the spring when the baby, she was'a born. I lost'a them both, All the little spring flowers was a'blooming around her when we laid's her here. And so I stay. How can I leave her alone?"
Edward and Jarrick, the RCMP's (Royal Canadian Mounted Police), were dashing and brave. Their presence was a mystery until almost the very end of the story. I won't tell you why they're there (don't want to ruin the story) just be aware that there is a villain lurking in Coal Valley that needs to be stopped. Yes, not all is as it seems...
I had tears in my eyes many times as I turned the pages of this book. My heart ached for Beth as she longed to find a way to help the town of Coal Valley, particularly the children. It was beautiful the way the authors kept the focus on God and how He helps those who look to Him. When Courage Calls was fabulously inspirational and a joy to review.
About the book: 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?
Purchase a copy and read an excerpt: http://ow.ly/tyWJH
About the Authors:
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?
Purchase a copy and read an excerpt: http://ow.ly/tyWJH
About the Authors:
Janette Oke Celebrated for her significant contribution to the Christian book industry, Janette Oke is the recipient of numerous awards. Her novels have sold more than 30 million copies and are beloved by readers around the world. Janette lives with her husband, Edward, in Alberta, Canada.
Laurel Oke Logan is the daughter of Edward and Janette Oke, is the author of "Janette Oke: A Heart for the Prairie," as well as the novel "Dana's Valley," which she co-wrote with her mom. Laurel and her husband have six children and two sons-in-law and live near Indianapolis, Indiana.
Laurel Oke Logan is the daughter of Edward and Janette Oke, is the author of "Janette Oke: A Heart for the Prairie," as well as the novel "Dana's Valley," which she co-wrote with her mom. Laurel and her husband have six children and two sons-in-law and live near Indianapolis, Indiana.
Janette Oke's newest book, Where Courage Calls (co-written with her daughter, Laurel Oke Logan), is receiving rave reviews. It is the companion story to Hallmark Channel's TV series When Calls the Heart, set in the Canadian west.
Janette and Laurel are celebrating with an iPad Mini giveaway and a Facebook author chat party on March 4th.
One winner will receive:
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on March 4th. Winner will be announced at the Where Courage Calls Facebook Party on March 4th. Connect with Janette and Laurel for an evening of book chat, trivia, laughter, and more!
Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP today by clicking JOIN on the event page. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 4th!
*I was given a copy of this book from Litfuse in exchange for my honest opinion. No other compensation was received.*
2 comments:
Hi there!
I came across your blog while doing some research on bloggers who might be interested in reviewing a new title by Dannah Gresh and Dr. Juli Slattery. They have co-authored a book called Pulling Back the Shades (releasing March 1 from Moody Publishers), that exposes the dangers of erotica for both single and married women.
Dr. Slattery and Gresh examine erotica from a spiritual and sexual standpoint, providing Biblical teaching, personal stories and testimonies from those affected by erotica to help women navigate this uncharted territory and discover how to embrace their sexuality and spirituality. While the Bible is clear on topics such as adultery and incest, Slattery and Gresh point out where even God is “grey” on sexual matters.
Would you be interested in reading and reviewing this title for us? We're looking for reviews to post during the month of March, and would be happy to provide an extra copy if you'd be interested in hosting a giveaway.
I look forward to hearing from you. Thanks!
Caylen
Icon Media Group
blogs@iconmediagroup.us
when calls the heart is a new series on hallmark and it is fabulous!!!
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