Widowed and with child, Emma Malcom is fleeing from the reward offered for her arrest. She’s innocent of the dirty dealings her deceased husband orchestrated, but the angry townspeople didn’t stop to listen to her defense before she narrowly escaped with her life. Now, she and her twin brother, Joseph, must battle the mountain wilderness of the Rockies to reach Canada and the clean start she craves. But when a fall from the rocky cliff leaves Joseph wounded and weak, could the strange mountain man they encounter be God’s gift to see them to safety?
Simeon Grant makes bad choices. His deceased wife and twin babies are lost to him now because of his reckless decisions, and the penance he pays by living alone in this mountain wilderness is only a small piece of what he thinks he deserves. When a city woman, heavy with child, appears on his doorstep with her injured brother, her presence resurrects the memories he’s worked so hard to forget. And when she asks for his help to travel deeper into the mountain country, he can’t help wonder why God would force him to relive the same mistakes he’s already suffered through. Or maybe taking these two to safety could be the way to redeem himself.
But when their travels prove more treacherous than he imagined, Simeon finds himself pressing the limits of his ability to keep Emma and her brother safe. Can he overcome the past that haunts him to be the man she needs? Will Emma break through the walls around Simeon’s heart before it’s too late, or will the dangers of these mountains be the end of them all?
Misty M. Beller is a USA Today bestselling author of romantic mountain stories, set on the 1800s frontier and woven with the truth of God’s love. For a limited time, you can get a free bestselling novel here: https://mistymbeller.com/freebook
Raised on a farm and surrounded by family, Misty developed her love for horses, history, and adventure. These days, her husband and children provide fresh adventure every day, keeping her both grounded and crazy.
Misty’s passion is to create inspiring Christian fiction infused with the grandeur of the mountains, writing historical romance that displays God’s abundant love through the twists and turns in the lives of her characters.
Sharing her stories with readers is a dream come true for Misty. She writes from her country home in South Carolina and escapes to the mountains any chance she gets.
What an adventure! I loved getting lost in the Rocky Mountains with Emma, Simeon, and Joseph, and feeling the majesty and power and danger of the untamed wilderness. Simeon is one of my favorite types of heroes- strong, quiet, and harboring a private angst that our heroine helps him release. He saves her physically, but she saves him spiritually by encouraging him to turn to the Lord and reminding him that God's love and peace are always there, even and especially in the hard times. Emma's strength and fortitude was impressive, I can't imagine undergoing such a journey during pregnancy! When the circumstances were overwhelming, she had the grit necessary to push her anxieties to the side and buckle down to help the men. I loved her relationship with her brother Joseph and the care and support they gave each other. Joseph had a good sense of humor and was quick to smile... when he wasn't injured. Emma wasn't quick to trust Simeon because of her previous experience with men, but he quickly proved himself stalwart and reliable. Their friendship grew steadily throughout the book and their romance developed naturally after that, which I loved. There is plenty of peril and nail-biting suspense balanced skillfully with the more mundane parts of an arduous journey and the reflections of characters who are searching for safety. I am looking forward to reading more by this author!
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
A-M-A-Z-I-N-G is the word I use to describe the journey this book took me on. From the Prologue to the ending it grips you in its throes and doesn’t let go. Yes it is painful, as you feel every pang due to the painted picture the words describe. You feel like you can see, hear, and taste everything from the beauty of the Rockies and the snow falling to the pangs of childbirth . I love the characters of Emma and her twin, Joseph, and most of all Simeon. The lost ness that Simeon feels is heartbreaking and the journey he takes on to help the twins is so intense that it leaves you on the edge of your seat. Make sure you have time when you settle in to read, as you won’t want to put this one down. It is a journey of faith, forgiveness, strength of character, and love. I know this will be one of my top reads this year. I received a complimentary copy from the author. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
This Treacherous Journey was a captivating read! It truly was a journey wrought with peril and difficulties. There were so many harrowing situations that these travelers faced and I was amazed with all that they endured!
Along with the journey that Simeon, Joseph, and Emma had to make, other discoveries were made along the way, as well. The author created a beautiful romance that developed between Simeon and Emma. It was natural and very well-written. But for the love that developed to ever flourish, Simeon had to learn to reach for the Lord and allow himself to let go of guilt and grief that continually pushed him down.
I loved this book from start to finish and am excited to read more stories in this series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
This was a sweet romance with a very strong faith thread, which I loved! You can't help love Emma and Simeon Grant and root for them to get together. Simeon is a tortured soul with a good heart that you just can't help but empathize with.
But I thought the twin brother and the other supporting cast were one-dimensional, and I thought several of the treacherous circumstances they found themselves in were a little far-fetched. In fact, the Indian drama made the birth anti-climatic, even though it technically should have been the climax of the main story. Maybe it was because the story of Simeon's first marriage was relegated to a prologue (btw, I've never seen a prologue part 2 like that before!). But to me, that was part of the main plot. I personally think that the first prologue should have been chapter 1.
(I received this book for free. The decision to write a review, as well as the opinions expressed in it, are all my own. I was not compensated for this review.)
This Treacherous Journey by Misty M. Beller has it all – adventure, danger, friendship, family, faith… and of course romance. It’s beautifully written and will keep your interest fully engaged from start to finish.
Simeon Grant is such a heartbreaking character, right from the very beginning. I just wanted to give him a hug. After losing his wife and twin babies, he holes up in the mountain wilderness and wallows in his grief. But let’s not give up on Simeon just yet. God is pursuing him, just as He does us when we are lost. And this, even more than the romance, is the most beautiful part of the novel.
Emma Malcom is a delightfully brave heroine. An East Coast city girl, she courageously and fiercely presses on through the western mountain wilderness. In the middle of winter. Several months pregnant. With a bounty on her head. I mean… one of those things would be enough to send me back home. But all together? She’s the kind of role model I want for my nieces.
And then there’s Joseph – Emma’s twin brother who, bless his heart, spends most of the journey deathly sick or severely injured. There’s a lot of depth to him though, and I hope we get to know him even better (and hale & hearty) in future books of this series.
“Even when we are lost, we aren’t lost from God.”
Did I mention the romance? Blissful sigh. Some delicious kisses and tender moments, but my favorite part of Simeon and Emma’s romance? The HUGS. Particularly before they have progressed into a kissing relationship… when he slides his arms around her, or she him, and they just hold each other? Oh my heart. I love. That feeling of being exquisitely cherished and protected by another person. Not just physically but emotionally, even almost soul-deep. That’s incredibly romantic to me, and I love that Beller made this such a sweet part of their friendship/romance.
Bottom Line: You might want to invest in an alternate oxygen supply for this read! Whether you’re holding your breath over imminent disaster or danger … or holding your breath over a beautifully written romantic scene … the point is that you won’t breathe much during This Treacherous Journey. Best to be adequately prepared. Misty M. Beller has written an inspiring and tender story of a wilderness trek that in many ways symbolizes Simeon and Emma’s own journey through life. The message that God has us in His hand – always – is sweetly presented and woven naturally throughout the story. A great story to cozy up with this winter … or any season!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
Well, the title definitely fit the book. Just when you thought that Emma, Joseph, and Simeon were truly over the last rough spot, another would crop up! It definitely made for an exciting story. Though, it wasn't all rough spots . . . there were some tender moments, of romance, for sure, but more importantly, places where Emma was able to remind Simeon that nothing can separate us from the love of God! 3.5 stars
What a lovely Christian historical story written with such emotions you can feel the sorrow, pain as one woman runs for her life leaving behind a dead husband only taking with her an unborn child and her brother. The author does a great job with detail of showing us how the wilderness is wild and dangerous as the characters have one set back after another. Emma has been through so much losing everything she owns because her husband was not a good man, the towns people feels she must have been in on it when in truth she knew nothing. Her brother takes her on the run trying to outrun the law and the reward on her head. Her brother has a bad fall leaving him unable to take care of her or his self when a strange steps in helping them. They want him to be their guide, there is no way he will take another woman into the wilds, but he is given little choice with one expecting woman and a man who can’t help his self must less his sister. This was a very emotional roller-coaster ride that is well worth your time. A great read with true emotions and faith.
Ms. Woodworth’s really brought this story to live for me as she pulled me in using emotion filled with sorrow, anger, hurt and pain along with excitement, danger and thrills. I had no trouble picturing the events as they unfold. Her character voices are wonderful as she held me spellbound from each character that is hiding something. Her tones are right on the mark keeping the listener on the edge waiting for the next shoe to drop. There are no volume changes, no background noise or any repeating of words. If any breaks were taken I could not tell. Her male voices were just as good as her female voices, you have no trouble knowing who is talking and just what they are feeling. Her character voices are just great as well as her normal voice is very pleasant and easy to listen to. The narrator really pulls you into the mystery as the romance unfolds under danger and deceit. You can feel the uneasiness of the characters as they work through the emotions of loss, facing the outcome and the heart break of the past. Ms. Woodworth’s has no trouble pulling of this very emotional listen that captivates you and holds your attention.
I really enjoyed this story from the start, the author gives you a wonderful story that is vivid you can picture the details she gives in each scene. My heart went out to Emma taking on a journey of this kind can never be easy but to be carrying an unborn child dealing with all the issues that brings has got to be trying to say the least. The fear of not knowing when someone will catch up with you, taking you back for the reward, wondering if your child will make it to take it first breath and if it does will it have a mother. Joseph story is just as heartbreaking he has lost so much and fears to lose even more as the love grows between him and Emma. I liked the plot, the characters, the mystery and how it all unfolds. The author knows how to pull on your heartstrings pulling you in keeping you hooked from the first page. The ending is wonderful I just about cried. The author gives a wonderful clean read with faith as the base and a growing romance coming in a close second.
I finished This Treacherous Journey a few minutes ago. Its set in early America. Emma and her twin brother leave Texas under a cloud of suspicion and travel toward Canada where their aunt lives. Joseph falls from a cliff and is seriously injured. Emma has to help her brother and comes across a rustic cabin in the Rockies. The mountain man meets them with a rifle. Simeon has become a self-imposed hermit. The journey continues toward Canada with animal attacks, Indians that are both friendly and some that are treacherous. Simeon's story comes out in pieces but Emma has her own secrets. The fact that she is expecting doesn't endear her to Simeon. He agrees to become their guide but his feelings of guilt are overwhelming.
I started this book last night and hated to put it down to sleep. Alas, the sandman overcame my desire to stay awake. I finished it this afternoon after decorating our tree. I received this book from the author. No one asked me to leave this review and all opinions are my own. The book has enough plot twist, action and I loved the book. This isn't my first book by Misty M. Beller and it won't be my last. I highly recommend this book and I think you will enjoy anything written by this author. So far I have.
Majestic mountains, perilous conditions, precious cargo, and danger at every turn more than satisfy the "treacherous" portion of the title while the longing for a "happily ever after" at the end of this journey kept me eagerly turning page after page.
Emma Malcom might be a flatlander and a city gal but she's willing to tackle an arduous journey through mountains she's never even seen in order to start anew. I admire her faith, tireless work-ethic, and straightforward personality.
Simeon Grant has experienced more than his fair share of tragic loss and sentenced himself to a life of solitude, guilt, and sorrow. Fortunately, this means he has become quite a skilled mountain man in order to survive on his own.
This is a lovely story of healing, redemption, and restoration. I recommend it to anyone who enjoys historical romance or Rocky Mountain settings!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review. The opinions expressed are my own.
This was the first book I've read by this author and was pleasantly surprised. The pages was filled with adventure (lots of it), spiritual content and characters who had to overcome personal issues with the help of God.
I loved how Emma's faith just spilled over and helped Simeon on his journey to healing and reconciliation to God and how they each first had to be whole for any relationship to be possible between them.
And poor Jospeh, so much happened to him as well. I'm really looking forward to his story which is the second book in the series.
I will definitely continue with this series. I enjoyed the adventure a lot, the faith journey the characters had to take and just the general interaction between all the characters.
If you want a wonderfully written Christian love story, you have found it here. The book is well written and keeps your interest. Misty M. Beller is a truly gifted writer. God's love shines through this book.
"There is a melody that pulls me. A tune that haunts my waking moments."
This is the first book by Misty Beller I have read and I am thrilled to have found this wonderful historical romance author. The book is well-written, the plot is engaging, the characters are achingly beautiful and lovable, the story moves at a good pace, and the redemptive love of God is evident in the book. The beauty of the Rocky Mountains along with the harsh and rough conditions during the winter in the mid 1850s is thoroughly infused into the story that I felt like I was with the characters as they travelled from Montana to Canada. Anyone who enjoys historical romance, especially set in the mountains of the West, would love this book.
The story opens up with Simeon's heart-wrenching loss that makes Simeon into who he is by the time Emma meets him. Simeon is steeped in sorrow, grief, and guilt and remains a recluse as a self-imposed punishment. Yet, even in his brokenness, he is surprisingly gentle, honest, protective, loyal, kind, and loving though he can be gruff at times. His vulnerability is so raw and heart-breaking. Emma is a fugitive, running away from the townspeople in eastern Texas who would harm her for her deceased husband's illegal and wrongful dealings. She is accompanied by her twin brother Joseph, as they try to make their way to family in Canada. Joseph's injury brings them to Simeon's cabin in Montana. Although unwilling at first, Simeon agrees to escort them through the mountains in the middle of winter and Emma, with her loving, loyal, gentle, patient, faithful, and stubborn ways, slowly thaws the ice Simeon has built up around himself against love - love from a woman, love from family, and love from God. Emma's reminder that "even when we are lost, we aren't lost from God" helps Simeon rethink his life and his choices.
Now I must go and read Misty Beller's previous books!
I was given a copy of this book by the author/publisher via Celebrate Lit Tour. I was not required to write a favorable review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
Come make a journey with characters that will bring the reader into their world. See the mountains and scenes that become an escape into your own mind. This book will transport you as the reader to a time and place that was majestic. Characters
There was so many reasons to love many of these characters, Simeon Grant a man that loses so much only to be faced with a new direction in the future, that he didn’t plan. Emma Malcom is a charming and yet broken as Simeon is. She certainly one that speaks volumes to Simeon’s memory. Joseph is Emma’s brother and wasn’t the main guy in this book, I liked what I read of him. Simeon is certainly a man looking to bury himself in the mountains alone, I wouldn’t blame him with his past, but I love that you as a reader slowly gain hope for his heart and soul to bloom again. Enjoyable Moments
The shock Simeon felt when Emma appeared was certainly a glorious moment for me, but I really loved how the writer had the characters interact. The author was detailed with her setting and personalities that it was magic for my mind to envision this book. Synoptic
This was the first time I have read a book by this author, but won’t be the last. I journeyed with characters through heart ache and love. I found solace in the setting many times and felt as though I was there in person. If that sounds like a good book then this is the book for you.
This Treacherous Journey is a fabulous start to Misty M Beller's whole new series, Heart of the Mountains. I was hooked from the beginning when I was introduced to Emma Malcolm and her twin brother, Joseph. I was not sure what I thought of Simeon Grant at first but he quickly grew on me after I was able to look through his tough and hard exterior. I loved everything about this book. It is a well written, beautiful and inspiring story of redemption, forgiving oneself, moving on and having faith. There is a wonderful setting, excellent plot, and adventure and danger. I do believe This Treacherous Journey is my new favorite by Misty M Beller. She has quickly become one of my must read and go to authors and this book can easily explain why. If a reader is looking for a great historical with a heartwarming story, then I highly, highly recommend this one. I can not wait to read book two from the Heart of the Mountains series. 100 stars. I received this book from the author. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
Beautiful, uplifting story about a man who thinks he has lost everything, and the woman who helps him recognize God's love for him. This was a great Christian fiction book and wasn't too "preachy." The story takes place about 1850 and relates the journey of a young adult woman, Emma, and her twin brother, who are travelling through the breathtaking beauty of Montana to reach Canada. They have hired a solitary, aloof (and handsome) mountain man, Simeon, to guide them, but it is Emma who really does the significant "guiding." I enjoyed reading of the bond of loyalty and love between Emma and her brother, Joseph. The kindness in the development of the relationship between Emma and Simeon made me want to be a better wife. After great hardships, the book culminates in a satisfying and lovely outcome.
This was a beautiful story of faith, love, forgiveness, healing and new discoveries. While faith was most prevalent, the power of love to strengthen, heal, instill bravery and courage won over all. The story was riveting, beautifully written, the characters fully developed, majestic scenery and skillfully narrated. I loved everything about this audible book and would not hesitate to share it with anyone.
We are not promised tomorrow. Our families mean a lot to us and we should show them just how much they do everyday. The Treacherous Journey will remind you just how valuable your family is. Emma is a widow and pregnant, she is fleeing from the people in her town due to dirty dealings her husband had done. She is traveling with her twin brother, trying to escape to Canada. Her brother, Joesph, gets hurt by falling from the rocky cliffs. They encounter Simeon, a mountain man who has lost his wife and twin babies, something that is his fault. Emma seeks his help to get them through the mountains to the border.
Simeon can't find a way to forgive hisself for the mistakes he has made. Can Emma help him?
The Treacherous Journey was a book that opened my eyes to just how important it is to tell your loved ones how much they mean to you. Forgiveness is powerful and something that truly comes from God. Forgive yourself, forgive others, and go on with your life. Don't let something stop you from telling your loved one how much they mean to you because you may not get that chance.
Mrs. Beller has outdone herself with this book and I love how much the importance of family means to her and it shows in her writings. I really look forward to reading more of her work.
“I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone."
A really enjoyable book. The setting and her vivid descriptions of the landscape and characters are well written you will think you are looking out a window into the very place. The characters are well developed. I applaud Joseph for sticking by his sisters side, in Emma you'll see amazing strength as she faces hardships that only men usually experience except for child birth. Men couldn't handle that experience. LOL! I loved that through the dramatic story there is Joseph to add funny comments and liven up the three as they journey in the bitter cold, biting snow and hard terrain. The walls that Simeon had built around himself-to not feel, to not love, to just live alone. But through the feisty Emma, will his heart thaw? Will they reach their destination and soon? I recommend this book. I enjoyed it.! Blessings, Karen Hadley Rating: 5* I received this book as a gift and all opinions are my own.
This new-to-me author definitely hit this one out of the ball park. Adventure, romance, danger, and faith all came together with 3 wonderful characters: Simeon Grant, their guide, and twins Emma and Joseph Malcom. Emma is a widow and pregnant with her first child. She is escaping from Texas due to false charges brought against her after her husband was hung when found guilty of fraudulent activities. She and her brother are headed to Alberta Canada where their only living aunt and uncle have a ranch.
Filled with detail and strong writing, Beller draws you into this story. Her spiritual thread flows beautifully throughout the plot. Both Emily and Simeon found healing, restoration, and unconditional love as they made their journey to Canada. I loved this adventure story from start to finish and am looking forward to reading the second book in this series which focuses on Joseph Malcolm.
I have really enjoyed this book! The narrator really puts a lot of feeling into the story. Simeon, Emma and Joseph have a great story to tell that will leave you almost breathless. The characters are real feeling and emotional, so much so that you can almost feel their pain, anguish and happiness. The journey is described so well that you can see the rugged mountains and their camp in your mind. At times I wanted to take deep breaths for them. If you like Inspirational Historical Romance you will love this book! Oh and the audio is wonderful because her voice is just right. At least it was for me. I received a complimentary audio copy from a Release Promo by the author and Leonor Woodworth and was not required to post a review. All opinions are my own.
This one just killed me. I’m reading the series in order so at first I couldn’t wrap my head around the time slip, but holy moly I’m so glad she wrote this book about Reuben’s birth father. I was entirely engrossed! Simeon turns out to be a wonderful person and a very hunky guy. I’m completely in love with Emma and Joseph. I laughed and I cried. My heart was in my throat. More crying. Oh, it’s a beautiful story! I can’t wait to see how she ties it all together.
What a heartwarming story that takes you on an adventure! I love all the descriptions that the author puts in. I felt like I was there on a tour. All the scenes were so vivid in my mind. The characters are well written, the storyline wasy to follow, and you will be HOOKED from the first chapter. This story depicts God's great love for us, and his grace that he extends to us. I can't wait until the next one in the series.
I received a copy of this book through the Celebrate Lit Blogging Program, all opinions are my own.
I think this is the first book I have read by this author and it will not be the last. I can’t wait for the next book in this series. I loved the characters. I could not put this down. Each character went through a lot to get to where they were going. I received a copy of this book from Celebratelit for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.
A story that shows a desperate woman with her twin brother to run and seek safety in the Canadian rookies. A mistake cost him what he loved and he too wants the vast wilderness to lose himself in. He was needed for her when life was to come, together to find healing . Given audio for my voluntary review and my honest opinion
Enjoyed this, yes, treacherous journey from Misty Beller. At times, the pace felt a little sluggish but the encounters experienced by the hero and heroine (and her twin brother) were enough to keep me reading through to the end as a sweet romance unfolded and wounded hearts were healed. Recommend this well-researched, inspirational adventure!
What words do I use to describe this amazing story of survival, second chances, and learning to live in God's grace after heartache, hurt, and guilt? This tale is all about the human spirit and its' struggle to overcome difficulties that the characters face as well as their attempts to conquer rough terrain where these mountain folk reside. The narrative is set in early American history, the 1850's, where these pioneers learn to live in rugged conditions as much of the western United States was still being settled. This is my first book to read from author, Misty M. Beller, and it is one that has enticed me to read more from her! If you want a book to transport you to a far away place where you can find a hope for own life then, please read, Misty's book! I guarantee you will find a glimmer of encouragement for your own life from the time spent reading about such an arduous adventure as, This Treacherous Journey!