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?
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.
MY REVIEW:
This may shock some of you, but I have never read a Janette Oke book! After reading this one, however, that will definitely change! I just loved this story and the characters so much!
Beth is a girl who has been coddled by her mother because of the fact that they lost her baby brother to whooping cough when Beth was a child. Beth also caught the whooping cough, but survived and was forever deemed "fragile" by those around her after this. Going to college, graduating, and then deciding to head West to teach school in a little town is a big move for her, but she feels God's calling on her life and she heeds it.
I really love Beth's father who gives her his beloved compass (there's a special story behind it) and a Scripture to see her on her way and to let her know how much he is behind her on this. The Scripture, Philippians 4:13, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me", becomes Beth's strength when she needs it throughout her journey and as she learns to be a teacher in such a remote town.
There is romance - we're just not sure out of the two eligible men who express interest in her will be the ones that capture her heart. This doesn't become clear until the end, which makes the story more interesting.
I just loved this book!! I give it 5 out of 5 stars and I highly recommend it!
*This book was provided to me about my LitFuse Publicity Group for my honest review
You can read more reviews HERE
Blessings - Julie
Woo Hoo, love her books.
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