When the Mountain Crumbled

A Day to Remember #4

by Angela K. Couch

Though Mountains Crumble, Hope Is Not Buried

Enjoy a series of 6 exciting novels featuring historic disasters that transformed landscapes and multiple lives. Whether by nature or by man, these disasters changed history and were a day to be remembered.

Discipline and rules are the foundation on which Samantha Ingles has built her life—the life of a spinster schoolteacher in a small mining town in the Canadian Rockies. All that crumbles from her grasp when part of a mountain crashes down on their community.

Constable David Harty has little patience for the strict schoolmarm but has no choice but to leave his three young nieces in her care while he tries to discover the fate of his brother. Already, the girls have lost their mother and a brother to the landslide and require comfort and love while they await the fate of their father, possibly buried in the coal mine.

With the mountain looming over their heads threatening more lives, and the town scrambling to save who they can from the rubble, can hearts find healing—both for their own sakes and the children in their care?

Also available in the A Day to Remember series:
When the Waters Came by Candice Sue Patterson
When the Flames Ravaged by Rhonda Dragomir
When Hope Sank by Denise Weimer

Genres: Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction, Historical, Fiction, Christian Historical Fiction, Inspirational

256 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 2024

About the author

Fascinated by history and in love with creating fiction, Angela K Couch has been lost in writing novels most of her life. As a passionate believer in Christ, she can't help her faith from permeating the stories she tells. Often her martial arts training, love of horses, and appreciation for good romance sneaks in there as well.

To learn more and to see her latest news, please visit:

Reviews

[DevotedToHope · Rating 5 out of 5]

What would you cling to if your world suddenly came crashing down like a landslide? What holds you steady when life’s landslide threaten to bury you?

Angela K. Couch's When the Mountain Crumbled plunges readers into a story of loss and hope amidst the majestic yet perilous Canadian Rockies. This tale gripped me from the start and left a lasting impact on my Christian walk, highlighting the unshakeable hope we find in God and God alone, even when everything is sliding away.

Couch paints a vivid picture of life after a catastrophic mountain landslide, where the characters face heart-wrenching loss and struggle to piece their lives back together. I found myself shedding tears alongside them, feeling the weight of their grief, but also smiling at those precious moments of joy and triumph that shone through the darkness.

This story beautifully captures the essence of survival and the power of faith. Each character's journey through their personal landslide of emotions and challenges felt so real, and I couldn’t help but root for them every step of the way. Couch’s storytelling made it easy to imagine myself standing right there with them, experiencing the turmoil and the hope firsthand.

Reading When the Mountain Crumbled reminded me that, even when our world seems to be falling apart, God’s sovereignty, love, and mercy remain a constant, unmovable force. It reinforced my belief in His presence during our toughest trials, and inspired me to trust in His plans, even when they’re hard to understand.

Let’s cling to Jesus every second of every day as He holds us steady!

I couldn’t put this book down. If you’re looking for a story filled with hope, faith, miracles, and the reminder that God’s love can withstand any landslide, this one’s for you.

Five stars for an amazing, heart-wrenching read filled with miracles that I didn’t want to end. Highly recommended!

I received a digital ARC of When the Mountain Crumbled from Barbour Publishing via NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review in any way or for any reason. My honest and unbiased opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the story’s content ensuring transparency and reliability.

[Katja Labonté · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.7 stars (5/10 hearts). As a Canadian I’ve heard the story of the Frank slide several times, and I was eager to read about it again from a Christian perspective. (Also, I love the idea of this series!) This was my first Angela Couch and I enjoyed it. The school teacher + RCMP constable pairing is cliché, but so fun! I also really enjoyed discovering the backstory of both Samantha & Nathan and how it wove into the tragedy of Turtle Mountain. The little girls were well done also. I wasn’t the biggest fan of the romance just because it consisted of WAY too much misunderstanding and while they kept almost confronting each other they also kept giving up, which drove me wild! Also I was bothered that while Nathan is a Christian (…I think?…) Samantha never becomes one, at least before they marry. Apart from that it was cute and slow burn. Also, I appreciated the messages of miracles, accepting love, and being seen. A solid four star read!

*I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*

[Readingintheweehours · Rating 5 out of 5]

Attention all When Calls the Heart fans:
this is the book for you!
Check the back cover (slide 4) for a synopsis, but here’s what you need to know:
This book is an excellent example of the experience of wrestling faith in the aftermath of real tragedy. In fact, the historical event in this story was real.
Samantha has used seriousness and practicality to protect her heart. Nathan has assumed that his value to others is inconsequential.
When God uses a tragedy to call each of them to life and teach them the value of their lives to others, it’s nothing short of beautiful.
My favorite scenes included unintentional hide and seek, that first baby snuggle, and the recollection of miracles.
Heartfelt and lovely.

[Staci · Rating 3 out of 5]

1903 Canada

This series continues to highlight tragedies I've never heard of. In this fourth of the series, it's a mountain that damages much of a thriving town in western Canada. I would have liked more focus on the event and aftermath and less on Nathan and Samantha.

[Betsy · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Whatever else came, she hoped they could always see God’s intervention on their behalf, no matter how slight it might seem.”

While a series dealing with historic and tragic events can be difficult to read, each novel in Barbour’s A Day to Remember series has its highly uplifting and hope-filled messages. This book tugged at the heart strings not only for the tragic landslide that occurred, but for the two souls, Samantha and Nathan, each dealing with their own personal and deep wounds which were gradually revealed as the story moved along. I had never heard of this landslide before and thought the author created a realistic and believable depiction of events. What made it so engrossing for me were the numerous mentions of miracles and God’s provision over such a terrible event. I loved the journal Nathan wrote in which not only kept his own faith grounded but ultimately helped lead another to faith. I couldn’t help but feel for the three orphaned sisters and their plight and hoped for things to work out for their best interests. Such a heart wrenching yet hope-filled and inspiring book!

I received an advanced reader copy from the publisher. A positive review was not required and these are my own and honest opinions.

[Jeanine Reed · Rating 4 out of 5]

When the Mountain Crumbled is the story of a fictionalized account of the heartbreaking tragedy that befalls a small mining town at the turn of the century. It follows town school mistress Samantha Ingles as she tries to recover from the disaster of the slide and the swell of suppressed grief from many years before triggered by the loss. She is thrust into the lives of three little girls who lost both parents and four brothers, when their uncle David comes in search of survivors. Being a bachelor and a Mountie, he has no inkling of how to care for young children nor the home required to shelter them. And the strict, seemingly indifferent schoolteacher continues to frustrate him with her attempts to distracts their sorrowful thoughts.

This is harrowing tale of survival and sacrifice, of coming together as a community, of loss and of discovery. There is beauty in tragedy and healing in pain. Once Samantha begins to heal old wounds she finds herself looking for miracles from a God she hadn’t believed it. David begins to realize that family is a precious thing to hold tight to.

I have always enjoyed Angela’s writing. She infuses historical events with faith and hope. Her romances are always tender and touching. As with her other reads I definitely recommend this one.

[Karen R · Rating 5 out of 5]

An engaging story based on a real tragedy, with a focus on the people who experienced it. Well written with characters who grow through the process of grieving and surviving a traumatic event.

The author expertly incorporates real people and their stories into the tale, and brings out the 'miracles' that happened. Both main characters changed a lot as they concerned themselves in the welfare of the children left behind in their care. I liked how Nathan wrote the incidents down to recount later and see how Divine providence played a hand in it all. His hard stance softens along with Samantha's as they see God's hand in their lives and know He cares for them. We ask along with Nathan, "Why God?" No easy answers are given, but seeing Him "in the details" and knowing we aren't abandoned by Him gives us much comfort and hope.

Highly recommend! Excellent historical read with faith elements and some romance. 5 stars

(An ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.)

[Rebecca Trump · Rating 4 out of 5]

When the Mountain Crumbled by Angela K. Couch is the 4th book in the A Day to Remember series. All the stories in this series have been taken from true events. The landslide in the town of Frank, near Calgary, Canada was a tragedy I had never heard about. I can’t even imagine the terror and pain of the survivors. But God’s miracles are seen throughout this tale and the author brought all those to light. I highly recommend this book!!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. The opinions expressed are completely my own.

[Cindy aka "The Book Fairy" · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an enjoyable story overall despite the fmc being rather uptight and prickly at first. As the story unfolded, it was revealed what had happened to her during her childhood sadly that had affected her concept of relationships and her own self image. It made me ponder so much how the lack of love and attention makes people grow up thinking they aren't worthy.

A glaring I suppose I will call this typo error was how on the back cover the constable with three young nieces was named David Harty yet throughout the book it was actually Nathan Stanford...Just amusing as it didn't lessen the enjoyment of the story.

It took the two characters awhile to come together with their past hurts shaping their outlooks but it was satisfying. There were plenty of spiritual elements throughout with a theme of trusting God to help heal and comfort despite experiencing horrible tragedies during our lives as we certainly will on this earth. There were many miracles that occurred as some lives were spared as their house was shifted, the miners dug themselves out another way, a train was delayed which kept those passengers from being hit by the landslide.

As this was based on one of the many disasters that happened as this series centers around, it was quite informative as I hadn't known about until now....Barbour Publishing provides such excellent stories! I can certainly recommend this author as I have read others by her and will gladly read more.

[Lucy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book four in A Day To Remember series where each book is a standalone about a disaster that changed history. I love knowledge and this is very informative about Turtle Mountain breaking loose and crashing down on Crowsnest Valley crushing everything in its path. It is a story of heartbreak and unimaginable loss but also one of hope and miraculous moments. Woven into the historical account and characters are fictional characters that have an impact as their story unfolds. It is all woven together flawlessly and draws you in. I loved Constable David Harty and how he wrote down every small account that gave him hope. Samantha was hard to get to know because of the hard shell she had around herself due to past circumstances but as the mountain crumbled so does her defenses and it is beautiful to witness her become the person God had intended. Two flawed characters thrown together as they care for three young children amid disaster and chaos will capture your heart. I could tell it was well researched and very creative writing with well developed characters has you turning pages quickly. Historical fiction lovers will especially want to read asap.
I received a complimentary copy from CelebrateLit. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.

[Connie Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Thoughts

When the Mountain CrumbledIs written by Angela K. Couch. This is book four in the A day to remember series that is written by multiple authors but focus on real life events. I’ve enjoyed this series so much. This story is set in April of 1903. It focuses on a rockslide that crashes down on a mining community.

The author did a wonderful job in writing a story to showcase this small mining town that dealt with a devastating loss. Samantha is a spinster school teacher. She’s built her life and it all comes crashing down (literally).

Constable David Harty is desperate to find his brother. He’s not a fan of Samantha but he does not have a choice when he needs someone to look after his nieces. Their world has fallen apart yet they see the power of faith. I loved the author reminder that even when things are bleak, God’s love is there.

The story is well written. You can feel the characters emotions coming off the pages. I love when authors bring historical events to life. I’ve not heard of this rock slide.

Thank you to the author, publisher and JustRead Publicity Tours for allowing me to read a copy of this book - all thoughts are my own.

[Lisa M. · Rating 4 out of 5]

When the Mountain Crumbled is the next installment in the "Day to Remember" series about major natural or man made disasters that have happened in North America in history. This particular one focuses on a horrendous landslide that occurred in 1903 a small mining town of Frank in the Canadian Rockies. It was the deadliest landslide in Canadian history-- 70-90 of the town residents died--most still buried under the rubble.

The novel begins the day prior to the landslide in the life of the local schoolteacher Samantha Ingles. She is an "uptight" highly disciplined schoolteacher who puts education above all else. Especially fun and feelings. She's built her life on rules and discipline which all crumbles around her when she's trapped in a home with some of her students due to the slide. Her lifework has been suddenly taken away from her.

Constable Nathan Stanford is a member of the Northwest Police Force who loves his job even if it has separated himself from his family. When he hears the thunder of a landslide and learns it happens in Frank--he drops everything and races there. His brother's family lives in Frank.

When he arrives, he discovers the only survivors of his family are his three nieces--now left without a home or parents and with a dubious future. He desperately wants to care for them--and asks their boarder (The local schoolteacher) who also survived to help.

Throughout the book we see constant reference to the passage from Psalm 46:11, “Be still and know that I am God.” as both Samantha and Nathan try to manipulate and control every experience they have in an effort to avoid dealing with things they are afraid of. Samantha wants nothing to do with a God who stripped her of her own family so many years ago--and now stripped so many families of their loved ones. Nathan feels like he's never been good enough in his family and has fought tooth and toenail to make a name for himself.

But through it all--both learn they must set aside their mindsets to accept what God has for them. To recognize the miracles that God has done even in the midst of the chaos and disaster.

The Christian message is strong in this book--just as it is throughout the other books in the series. I appreciated learning more about another event I knew nothing about.

4 Stars

*I was given a free copy of the book by the publisher and Net GAlley. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

[Jasmine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Things are forever changed in 100 seconds...

Wow... as I'm sitting here after turning that last page just a moment or two ago it's hard to put my thoughts into words. The emotion of When The Mountain Crumbled is as enormous as the mountain that fell. The loss and grief standing in opposition to the miracles of survival simply tugs at the heart.

I had never heard of the Frank Slide prior to reading this fourth A Day To Remember novel but I have found the tragic and inspiring story to be quite fascinating. And to look at photos of before, just after, and now, is still a bit difficult to wrap your head around.

3 decades ago my family lived through disaster that struck our town, losing our home and most of our possessions. Like the people of Frank some were removed before the disaster hit and some, like my family, had to go through it. So that question of why some and not others is one that I understand. Angela K. Couch made her story even better and realistic by the inclusion of that personal struggle for her characters as she acknowledges those unanswered questions.

Anyway, Angela K. Couch has a pretty good story with When The Mountain Crumbled. Her characters are quite human as there are moments when you positively dislike them and others when you just want to give them a hug. So prepare to need a tissue or two and dive into this standalone book in the A Day To Remember historical series that is based on true events across the years....

(I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)

[Vicki F · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have learned so much from the 'A Day to Remember' series (listed below). The actual events, actual survivors, and what happened after the disasters is such a powerful story. Strong characters, strength through extremely difficult situations, reliance on God, and recognizing His miracles are woven throughout the stories. When the Mountain Crumbled by Angela K. Couch intricately weaves these details in a poignant manner with characters I didn't want to leave behind in the story.

Releases Sept. 1st. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

A Day to Remember series:
When the Waters Came by Candice Sue Patterson
When the Flames Ravaged by Rhonda Dragomir
When Hope Sank by Denise Weimer

[Jeanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This novel focuses on the “Frank Slide”, the deadliest rockslide in recorded North American history, and its aftermath. Spiritually, we see the faith of the fictional characters, many based on real people. One man began to see miracles that took place after the rockslide. Emotions run the full gamut, from devastating grief to joy.

Frank, a mining town in what is now Alberta, Canada, was growing rapidly. Samantha Ingles, the new teacher, was staying at the Stanford home. She had one room in the attic and the older Stanford girls, Abby and Mary, had the other one. During the wee hours of April 29, 1903, millions of tons of rock slid down Turtle Mountain, blocking entrances to the coal mine and destroying almost everything in its path. Samantha was pinned under the roof in her room, as were Mary and Abby in theirs, until they were rescued. The rest of the girls’ family died.

Mounted Police constables from the nearby fort went to help with the rescue. When Constable Nathan Stanford heard where the rockslide was, he volunteered to go. He had not yet accepted his brother Peter’s attempts to reconcile; would he have another chance?

Nathan’s niece, Mary, recognized him from a picture her father, Peter, had. He talked with them briefly before getting to work. He thought that being in the care of their teacher, they would be in good hands. Samantha, however, had no experience with caring for babies, and couldn’t quiet Lucy.

Nathan helped look for survivors, even after learning that his three nieces were the only survivors of Peter’s family. The girls wanted to stay together, with him, but he lived at the fort. He wired his parents and siblings to let them know what happened and asked for one of them to take the three sisters together. Nathan asked Samantha to watch over the girls until his family arrived.

When Nathan saw unusual, unexpected outcomes, he began writing a list of miracles. One of those miracles was his year-old niece, Lucy, who was thrown from her family’s cottage and landed, uninjured, on a hay bale.

Nathan and Samantha did not like each other from the beginning. They each had past wounds and memories that were ripped open after the rockslide. Nathan had faith in the Lord, as did his two older nieces. Samantha did not.

While very informative with interesting elements, this novel was hard for me to get into at first. Several chapters in, I began to appreciate it. Samantha’s and Nathan’s walled-in hearts began to open as they and the girls faced continued trials. Three of Nathan’s brothers arrived to each take one of the girls home with them. The night before they were to get on separate trains to separate cities, the sisters disappeared.

There are memorable times, such as when Samantha realized there were “miracles she could no longer refute, from a God she could no longer ignore”. Abby, who refused to talk with anyone, took Samantha’s hand. The quiet voice telling Samantha what she needed to hear, such as “Be still”.

There are excellent spiritual lessons and fascinating people. What impacted me most was Nathan’s looking for God’s miracles, and their being open to people He put in their lives. The ending was unexpected and extremely satisfying. I highly recommend this to readers who appreciate Christian historical fiction, faith struggles, and romance.

From a thankful heart: I received a pre-published copy of this novel from the publisher and Celebrate Lit through NetGalley, and this is my honest review.

[Becky Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

“‘Our story doesn’t have to be a tragedy,’ he tried. ‘Yes, there has been a lot of tragedy—I have felt it as keenly as anyone who has lost family and friends. But there is a place for faith and hope as well.’”

This quote, as spoken by Constable Nathan Stanford in When the Mountain Crumbled, by Angela K. Couch, is as valid in real life as in the novel. Truly, coming closer recently to a real-life tragedy than I would like, this story was another reminder of the uncertainty of life. Yet God’s sovereign Hand is providing care and blessings in the midst of a storm.

The “storm” in the book takes place as a rockslide on a mountain, destroying much of a small Canadian mining town in 1903. The town’s uptight, rigid, and uncaring teacher (Samantha Ingles)survives, as do three girls of the large family Samantha is boarding with. One of the Mounties to help in the town’s rescue is the estranged brother of the girls’ father.

At first, there was no love lost between Samantha and Nathan. Each was well-set in their own ways and not interested in the well-being of others. I was hardly interested in their well-being, either! But, slowly, the girls’ needs begin to thaw out hearts that have been closed off to love and hope.

Mary is quite the mature young lady, though only a young girl. Somehow, she takes a shine to both her uncle and Samantha, even as Samantha hands out homework in their time of loss. Mary’s ability to put her emotions into words far exceeds that of the two adults she now must rely on. “To lose so much—to be left alone, And yet somehow, I survive. Now how to live when all is gone, I don’t know how to try.” Oh, my aching heart! Your heart will ache as well, at the tragedy of the town, the future of the Stanford girls, and the ups and downs of the relationship between Nathan and Samantha.

I received a copy of the book from Celebrate Lit. I also bought my own copy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.

Notable Quotables:

“You were not alone. Be still, and know that I am God.”

“Love is a choice.”

“The truth of it? I don’t think she ever wanted me.” Had anyone ever? He’d always been just one more mouth to feed, one more child to discipline. Even now, he was just another constable on the force—one more uniform to order around.”

“Life was a risk, with no guarantee of how much of it you’d get. Don’t waste it.”

“The question was, would she bury her feelings back behind her walls of emotionless candor, or allow herself to heal and help the girls in the process.”

[✨ ੈ✩‧April ♡ ʚ♡⃛ɞ✨ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Angela K. Couch’s When the Mountain Crumbled is a gripping and emotionally charged historical novel that delves into themes of resilience, loss, and the indomitable human spirit. Set against the backdrop of a mining town during a tumultuous period, Couch crafts a compelling narrative that immerses readers in the struggles and triumphs of her characters.

The story follows the journey of the protagonist, who faces both personal and collective challenges as her community grapples with the aftermath of a catastrophic event. Couch’s vivid descriptions and attention to detail bring the setting to life, allowing readers to feel the weight of the mountain’s crumbling and its impact on the lives of those who inhabit the town. The sense of place is palpable, and the author expertly captures the atmosphere of both hope and despair.

Couch’s character development is a standout aspect of the novel. The protagonist is relatable and multi-dimensional, embodying the complexities of navigating grief and the search for identity in the face of adversity. The supporting characters are equally well-crafted, each contributing to the rich tapestry of the story. Their individual arcs intertwine beautifully, showcasing the strength of community bonds during times of crisis.

One of the strengths of When the Mountain Crumbled is its exploration of resilience. Couch highlights how characters confront their fears, face their pasts, and find the strength to rebuild their lives after devastation. This theme resonates deeply, making the story not only compelling but also inspiring. Readers will find themselves rooting for the characters as they navigate their challenges, providing a sense of hope amid the turmoil.

However, while the narrative is engaging, there are moments where the pacing slows down, particularly in the middle sections. Some readers may feel that certain plot points could have been streamlined to maintain a more consistent momentum. Additionally, while the emotional depth is commendable, a few scenes might benefit from further exploration to enhance their impact.

Overall, When the Mountain Crumbled is a beautifully written and heartfelt novel that captures the essence of resilience in the face of adversity. Angela K. Couch has crafted a story that is both poignant and uplifting, reminding readers of the strength that can emerge from even the darkest of circumstances. For those who enjoy historical fiction with rich character development and a strong sense of place, this book is definitely worth reading.

[Deana Dick · Rating 5 out of 5]

A gripping story about the destruction of a town where many lives were lost sets the stage for miracles, budding relationships and hope. Oh how hard it was to read how a town is wiped out by a mountain that threatens to destroy everything in its path. You can hear the rumblings as the chaos starts. Homes are destroyed and people are trapped beneath the places they called home.

Samantha is the school teacher for the little town. She is not very well liked and some call her unkind names. She does have a desire to teach but not everyone thinks children should be at school all the time. When tragedy happens she finds herself trapped in the home she shared with a family. She can hear the screams of the children in another part of the house. Her life will never be the same as she is finally rescued. Her heart breaks for the ones who didn’t make it.

Constable Nathan comes to town to see if his brother and family survived. To his dismay all that is left is his three nieces. It is hard for him to believe his brother didn’t make it out of the mine. When Nathan sees Samantha caring for his nieces he hopes they can help each other out. It is quickly evident that Samantha isn’t quite the nurturing type but he needs her help with the children.

The story is very emotional and the loss of lives overwhelming. I was heartbroken when those precious girls were left without parents. Nathan is trying so hard to help and Samantha is doing what she can. When a misunderstanding makes Nathan ask Samantha to leave, I knew it was out of hurt. He longs to give his nieces a home yet he doesn’t feel equipped. When Samantha finally opens up and shares her past with Nathan he starts to see the pain in her eyes. Discovering that they both are hurting in similar ways brings them closer. I liked how they learned that they both are looking for a place to belong, a family of their own and love that will last a lifetime.

The ending is so wonderful yet brought me to tears. Through everything they have gone through Samantha says, ‘I’m grateful for the good that God had brought about from something so horrible.” “If not for the bad, how would they recognize or appreciate the good.”

Don’t miss the author notes at the end of the book. It gives historical facts of the deadliest landslide in North American recorded history, claiming the lives of more than seventy people. I had no idea this happened but now after reading the story I understand how God performed miracles that day.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

[Jeannine Bennett · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve always enjoyed reading Angela Couch’s books—she’s such a fantastic writer, and When the Mountain Crumbled is no exception. This historical Christian fiction novel is book four in a series of six, each centered around real disasters that not only altered landscapes but also deeply affected the lives of the people who lived through them. Couch’s ability to bring history to life while weaving in strong, relatable characters is what makes her writing so captivating.

In this novel, we meet Samantha Ingles, a disciplined and rule-bound schoolteacher living in a small mining town in the Canadian Rockies. She’s built her life around order, but everything changes when part of a mountain crashes down, leaving the town in ruins. Samantha’s controlled world is shattered, forcing her to confront not only the devastation around her but also the emotional walls she’s carefully built.

On the other side of the story is Constable David Harty, who reluctantly leaves his three young nieces in Samantha’s care as he searches for his brother, feared to be buried in the coal mine after the landslide. The disaster has already taken much from his family, and the tension between him and Samantha adds another layer to the challenges they face as they navigate survival and loss.

One thing I loved about this book is how Couch captures the raw emotions of a community grappling with tragedy while also highlighting the resilience of the human spirit. The landslide is more than just a physical disaster—it becomes a metaphor for the crumbling emotional walls between the characters. As Samantha cares for David’s nieces, we see her soften, learning to comfort in a way that contrasts sharply with her strict, controlled nature. Similarly, David’s initial frustration with Samantha turns to understanding as they both learn to lean on one another during the crisis.

The backdrop of the Canadian Rockies and the looming threat of more destruction adds to the tension, but what really shines through is the message of hope and healing. Despite the devastation, Couch reminds us that love and faith can grow even in the darkest of times.

When the Mountain Crumbled is a heartfelt, beautifully written story that blends history, romance, and faith. It reminds us that even when life feels out of control, there’s always room for hope. Angela Couch once again proves why she’s such a talented storyteller, and I’m excited to see where this series goes next.

Note: I received a copy of this book from the author and was not required to write a positive review.

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have been given the opportunity to review an Advanced Reader Copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and Netgalley. This is the fourth of five books in their “A Day to Remember” series.
This book is set in the early 1900’s and is based on an actual event and an actual town. The town of Frank was a mining town situated in the Canadian Rockies. The mudslide disaster really happened.
Samantha has been hired as the school teacher for the town. She is the typical stereotype “schoolmarm” and takes education very seriously. She boards with the family of some of her students when the disaster strikes. Their home is buried under the rocks and only Samantha and three daughters survive. She is left with their care until other family members can be found.
Nathan is a Mountie and also the uncle of the surviving children. He makes it his mission to try to locate his brother and family. When he does, he enlists Samantha’s help until he can make other arrangements. They develop a common bond caring for the girls and their shared faith draws them closer.
Nathan’s siblings arrive and plan to take charge of the children but plan to divide them amongst each other. Nathan, being single, is deemed to be not appropriate to adopt them. He and Samantha must work together to ensure the girls are together and loved.
This is a well written story, often sad but there are many happy moments showing that happiness can come out of devastating circumstances. The dialog is engaging and easy to follow.
Faith plays an important role in many of the characters lives. Samantah and Nathan share a deep faith that grows deeper as the story develops.
I look forward to reading other books by this author.
I received a complimentary ARC of this book from the publisher through Netgalley and their book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own.

[Debbie · Rating 2 out of 5]

This is Christian fiction set in the Canadian Rockies in 1903. Historical details about the Frank landslide were woven into the story. Most of the focus was on the loss of family and how their lives changed. I wouldn't call this a romance. Nathan had such distain for Samantha in the first half of the book. He deliberately spent very little time with her or getting to know her until his promise to do so at 95%. Then we abruptly jumped to them being married.

Nathan spent the first half of the story disliking Samantha and being mean to her. He repeatedly thought of her as a witch and as looking like a rat. He broke her glasses, told her that he'd get them fixed, then neglected to do so for about a week (leaving her to see the world in a blur). He pushed her to do things she didn't want to do, decided things for her without asking her or considering her stated desires, and criticized her for doing her best to take care of the girls while injured and traumatized. He offered her no pay, refused to take over when given leave to do so, and basically avoided taking any responsibility for them. He'd asked his siblings to take the girls. But when they showed up, he didn't want them to take the girls anymore mostly because he didn't like his siblings taking charge.

Nathan didn't start changing what he thought about Samantha until he'd broken her down into tears with his cruel words (at 58%). Then he thought her not so bad looking after all (with tear-filled eyes). At 77%, he proposed marriage 'for the sake of the girls' and so he could spite his oldest brother. He wanted to marry someone, and she seemed the mostly likely to accept on the spot.

Samantha was neglected by her parents and raised in boarding schools, making no lasting friendships and being told to rigidly control her feelings. Even though she's a respectable woman, the men and sometimes women went out of their way (even though she clearly wasn't looking for a husband) to mock her saying no one would ever marry her. Samantha felt lonely, liked the girls, and felt like Nathan was her only prospect for a husband.

The tragedy of the landslide both made Nathan doubt that God cared but also showed that God had a hand in numerous miracles that happened to save people's lives. He struggled with why some people died while others lived. There was no sex or bad language.

I received an ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.

[Sara Wise · Rating 5 out of 5]

** “You were not alone. Be still, and know that I am God.” **

Angela K. Couch adds another exciting addition to the “A Day to Remember” series — a fictionalized series about actual horrific historical events — with “When the Mountain Crumbled.”

On April 28, 1903, in Western Canada, a devastating landslide occurs on Turtle Mountain. Waking up frontier teacher Samantha Ingles, she realizes she has survived, along with the three daughters of the family with which she boards. The rest have tragically died. But even though she has suffered a bad ankle injury, the stiff-upper-lip Samantha with very little motherly tendencies does her best to keep Mary, Abby and Lucy together.

Nearby, North-West Mounted Police Constable Nathan Stanford learns of the tragic landslide in the town of Frank, where his brother Peter lives with his family. As he races to find them, he doesn’t know what kind of tragedy and devastation faces him.

As Samantha’s and Nathan’s paths cross, can they get over their pre-conceived notions of each other and work to save the three little girls. And can they overcome their own past traumas and disappointments to deal with the tragedy?

Couch does a great job of bringing an historical tragedy to life, intertwining real characters who experienced the landslide, as well as new characters like Samantha and Nathan to personalize it. She expertly fills the story with drama, misunderstandings and simmering romance. And she also fills “When the Mountain Crumbled” with several great themes, like denial and hope (“Denial liked to linger at the beginning, threatening you with hope when there was none”); God is in the details; dealing with grief; stuffing down feelings; not wanting to burden others; wanting to belong; and how can one balance tragedy with miracle.

Fans of historical fiction and stories about overcoming tragedy will love “When the Mountain Crumbled,” which is due out Sept. 1.

Five stars out of five.

Barbour Fiction provided this complimentary copy through NetGalley for my honest, unbiased review.

[Sally Mander · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars, Horrific Natural Disaster

WHEN THE MOUNTAIN CRUMBLED (A DAY TO REMEMBER SERIES BOOK 4)
by Angela K. Couch

Canada, 1903

Samantha Ingles is a schoolteacher in the small town of Frank, the home of a coal mine. She lives with the family of several of her students. They are caught in a devastating landslide in their mountain town. Samantha hasn't been trained to deal with deadly natural disasters. She's stuck.

Constable Nathan Stanford is a member of the North-West Mounted Police. He is awakened by a deep rumble. He wants to go investigate what it was. It sounded like it came from the west, possibly near where his brother works and lives with his family in Frank.

These two people are thrown together and are trying to make sense of the horrific natural disaster that swallowed most of the town of Frank.

Day to Remember is a series that is about historic disasters that affected a lot of people. Some of the disasters were manmade and some occurred naturally. Some you may have heard of, others you may not have. This series of six books brings them forward, so all who reads them can remember.

I have been in historic mines, I would be terrified if a mountain I was in crumbled around me. The location of Frank is only an hour's drive from the author's home.

Highly recommend.

I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy of #whenthemountaincrumbled of the #adaytorememberseries from #barbourbooks #barbourfiction I was not obligated to post a review.

#miningdisasters #Mounties #Canada #schoolmarm #1903 #ChristianFiction #inspirational #historicalfiction #AngelaKCouch #bingedbook

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Day to Remember series continues with this story about a deadly avalanche in the Canadian Rockies. I have to say, that reading this story, especially after all the hurricane disaster news that has affected so many, really made it hard and caused this tragedy to feel so tangible. These day tragedy's that this series highlights is doing a good service of reminding us of the tragedies of the past.

Like I said, this one was a particularly hard one to read through, due to the avalanche, the many souls lost, the miraculous way some were saved, and just the feelings of suffocation and entrapment some of our characters experienced. However, within the horrific accounts of this disaster, there was hope. The author gives us a beautiful romantic story in the midst of such tragedy.

If you can think of a couple more unsuited than uptight, or so it seems schoolteacher and spinster Samantha Ingles and somewhat severe, free as a bird, or so his family thinks, Mounty Nathan Stanford, let me know. These two could hardly stand each other. So there falling in love was a pleasant escape from the horrors that they and Nathan's orphaned nieces faced. I actually had to keep checking to see if this was a romance, because their interactions with one another was something else. But oh boy, when they decide they like each other, so worth the wait.

So, though this is a hard read, there is a shining hope and love that pours out of this story.

I was provided a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review, and all views and opinions are my own.

https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...

[Claudia · Rating 4 out of 5]

This fourth book in Barbour Publishing's A Day to Remember series is just as wonderful as its predecessors. Each book tells an account of fictional characters set within the very real events of a North American disaster. The books are well-researched and closely based on actual occurrences. When the Mountain Crumbled is set beginning in April of 1903 in the Crowsnest Valley in Alberta, Canada. It was around 4:10 a.m. on the 29th of the month when millions of tons of limestone broke off from the side of Turtle Mountain and crashed into the town of Frank, killing more than seventy people. Couch based her characters' experiences on those of real-life people residing in Frank at that time. Samantha, her main character, is a schoolteacher who assumes the care of three sisters after the death of their parents and brothers, eventually sharing the responsibility with the girls' Uncle Nathan, a mounted police officer. The schoolmarm and the Mountie rarely agree on what is best for the girls which leads to a growing sense of tension.

Couch treats the victims of this natural disaster with respect and sensitivity as she develops a story that reveals the impact one's past may have on the lens through which they view the present, and also explores the presence of God in the midst of disaster. I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy of When the Mountain Crumbled from Barbour Publishing via NetGalley without obligation, and feel comfortable recommending it to other fans of historical fiction. All opinions expressed here are my own.

[Cover Lover Book Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh, I just love this series! “When the Mountain Crumbled” is book 4 of 6 in the A Day to Remember series. Each story is written by a different author and features an American historical disaster. I’ve read the previous 3 and have learned about a lot of American history! And don’t even think about asking which is my favorite. They are all so special in their own ways. And oh-my-goodness, I love all the covers!

Set in the Canadian Rockies, this story grabbed me quickly. It took me a bit longer to connect with Samantha than it did with Nathan, but I empathized with them and wanted to console them both. I enjoyed witnessing their growth and change as the story progressed.

It was easy to feel the atmosphere of danger, fear, and tragedy—especially with the southeast US recently experiencing two very powerful hurricanes (Helene and Milton.) But this story shows us that God is with us, and our faith will see us through—even in the darkest days.

First Line: Looming shadows stretched across the schoolroom, but the coldness seeping into Samantha Ingles’ bones had nothing to do with the cool mountain air sweeping through the open window from the snow-crested peaks of Turtle Mountain and its confederates.
Series: A Day to Remember, book 4
Genre: Christian Historical Fiction
Author: Angela K Couch
Page Count: 256

#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book.
Opinions are 100% mine.

[Christi · Rating 4 out of 5]

When life begins to crumble all around you, it’s easy to lose yourself in anything and everything to take your mind off of your situation. But what happens when a mountain literally falls apart around you and you’re faced with your mortality and a whole new reality? That’s what happens in the Canadian Rockies when an avalanche falls on a small mining town. Lives are lost, but hope still has an opportunity to shine in When The Mountain Crumbled.

This story is based on a true story and it is one that I was not familiar with until I read this book. I cannot even begin to imagine the fear that these brave souls went through as they tried to pick up the pieces and go on with life with so many lost and their town in shambles.

Everyone in this novel felt so real and my heart went out to each and every one of them, particularly the young girls, who truly lost everything. Samantha’s haughty attitude is clearly a front for deeper-seated issues that come bubbling to the surface after the avalanche. There is a lot of inner turmoil with the schoolteacher as well as the constable as they not only figure out the new roles they are thrust into but also as they start to look inward and take stock of their own flaws and shortcomings.

My only complaint is I would’ve liked to have heard more facts pertaining to the actual tragedy and not so much focus on Samantha and Nathan but other than that this was a touching story of the will to survive in the face of tragedy and shows the power of perseverance and faith.

[LA · Rating 4 out of 5]

A beautiful telling of the tragic story of Frank, Alberta.

I’m always looking for stories set in Canada (as I don’t think there are enough of them!), but especially ones written for the CBA market. This book did not disappoint.

School teacher Samantha Ingles isn’t a likeable character at the start. She’s cold, strict, and people in her story world would say she’s unfeeling. It isn’t until the rock slide that buries a good section of town that readers are exposed to the softening of Samantha’s heart. Hers is a tragic backstory which only endears her to readers as the story unfolds.

David Harty has his own set of issues which causes a lot of friction between him and several characters. It almost seems impossible that David and Samantha would get along at any point in the story. But with David’s recently orphaned nieces, the two have to figure things out.

The narrative pulls readers in from the start, giving just enough detail for readers to imagine the setting. The story moves along well, keeping readers engaged with every page.

A slew of characters – both real and fictional – help readers connect to the intensity of the situation. The author provides a fascinating historical review of what happened in Frank when Turtle Mountain collapsed and killed nearly 100 people.

A great retelling of a piece of Canadian history.

I received a copy of the book from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Patti Wolff · Rating 4 out of 5]

A poignant and emotional read, "When the Mountain Crumbled" is Angela Couch's contribution to the A Day to Remember series. Chronicling events before and afterward of the tragic 1903 Turtle Mountain slide, Couch delivers a strong message of faith despite the devastating consequences.

When one thinks of the term "spinster", it conjures up images of a prim, severe and humorless woman. At first glance, Samantha Ingles appears to fit the bill. We should never judge a book by its cover, of course, yet everyone does. However, it's extremely disappointing that the male protagonist falls into line with everyone else. Nathan Stanford, somewhat overlooked by his large family, nurses a grudge from long ago that made it difficult for me to like him. That, and his mistaken assumptions about the heroine, are disheartening in a hero. Samantha is an extremely sympathetic character, though, and her backstory is so sad.

Characters are well-drawn, and they deal with the disaster in different ways. The Stanford girls' behavior is touching. The account of the slide is vividly described, and at times somewhat grisly. The ending is incredibly moving, as Nathan has documented the miracles that have occurred notwithstanding the horrible circumstances.

Thanks to NetGalley and Barbour Publishing for an ARC of this inspiring tale.

[Vicki · Rating 4 out of 5]

When the Mountain Crumbled was an emotionally stirring novel about a tragic landslide that destroyed an entire town. The focus is on the loss of human life and faith in spite of tragedy. In the midst of the grief there was hope, faith, and often miracles that shown thru the loss.
Couch did a great job of intertwining fictional characters with some people who really did experience this disaster. She moved the timeline for one of the events to fit her plot. This would normally have dropped my review rating to see history rewritten. However, it was astounding how many historical facts she managed to place into When the Mountain Crumbled . I was really impressed by that and would gladly read any additional historical fiction books by this author.
I really disliked the main character in the novel to the point of almost not finishing the book. But once again , Couch’s writing style gripped me from the start and the need to hear more about this landslide kept me reading. By the end of the book, while I still was not overly impressed by Samantha, I understood her a lot better and her behavior. It was definitely worth reading to the end.
I received a copy of When the Mountain Crumbled from NetGalley. There were no requirements or expectations in exchange for this copy. And all the opinions expressed are my own.