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Call of the Rockies #2

Hope in the Mountain River

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This epic journey is not at all what she expected.

Joel Vargas can’t believe he’s lost his older brother in the wilds of the Rocky Mountains after surviving their harrowing voyage across the Atlantic. And he can’t shake the feeling that Adam—his only living relative—is in dire trouble. No matter what the cost, he and his band of friends won’t stop until Adam is found. He’s not sure if two Indian women they meet on the way will be a help or hindrance.

After the devastating loss of her daughter and husband to a sickness that swept through their Nez Perce camp, Elan is desperate to find an escape from her grief. As she and her friend journey through the mountains toward the great river, a band of white men is the last thing she expects to find, especially as winter blows in full force.

When the dangers increase, accomplishing Joel’s mission becomes the only hope for all their survival. If the elements don’t consume them, Elan has a feeling life will never be the same for any of them.

From a USA Today bestselling author comes another epic journey through breathless landscapes and intense adventure.

298 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 1, 2020

1275 people are currently reading
352 people want to read

About the author

Misty M. Beller

155 books2,344 followers
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.


Learn more at www.MistyMBeller.com.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews
Profile Image for Heidi Robbins (Heidi Reads...).
1,677 reviews586 followers
January 13, 2021
Another trademark wilderness adventure from this author that kept me glued to the pages as Joel and his friends team up with Elan and her friend Meksem to hunt down Adam and the elusive spotted horses. There is a strong spiritual thread with both Joel and Elan character arcs, as well as themes of grief, loyalty, friendship, and purpose. Each character is vibrant and I loved how the story came to life. The pace is steady throughout with a good balance between moments of introspection and exciting danger.

There was only one part that didn't make sense to me- that Joel, as a recent convert to God and faith, would have such a strong determination that Elan must also be a believer in order to have a relationship with him. While I understand the concept, it didn't ring true to his character and I would have thought that he would have more grace and allow her the time to learn and grow as he did. So that part seemed a little like the author inserting her own philosophy into the story rather than letting the characters develop organically.

Overall, I loved the setting, adventure, romance, and characters! I recommend reading the books in order for the best understanding of the group of men that the series centers around, but it can also be read on its own.

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
Profile Image for Brittany .
2,926 reviews211 followers
April 9, 2020
Once again, as with the other books that I have enjoyed by this author, I was captivated by characters full of depth and a dangerous journey that kept me enthralled as I turned each page. Hope in the Mountain River is book two in the Call of the Rockies series. Those who have read the first book in the series will be happy to join up once again with Beaver Tail and his wife Susannah, Caleb, French, and Joel. If you haven’t read book one, don’t worry, you should be able to jump right into this story and enjoy reading as the group meets up with two women, Elan and Meksem, who work to lead them to Joel’s lost brother.

It was wonderful to read as Joel and Elan began to build the beginnings of a connection to each other. Elan had lost so much in the recent past and was very afraid to open her heart up to anyone else. Their love story was just perfect, as was the journey they both needed to take in order to learn to trust in the one true God. I loved this story and I am really looking forward to the next book in the series.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
Profile Image for MJSH.
1,352 reviews75 followers
April 11, 2020
Another stunning historical romance from Misty Beller! This second book in Call of the Rockies series follows the five-some group of friends through the Future Montana Territory in 1830 and focuses on Joel as he searches for his brother Adam. It can definitely be read as a stand-alone but you’ll be able to appreciate Beaver Tail and Susanna’s relationship better if you read the first book.

Misty Beller has a way of painting her winter wilderness backdrop with such majestic beauty that you can’t help but be swept into the story with the characters to face trials and challenges from the elements, sickness, and injury. As with the first book, the Native American tribes and their culture are seamlessly woven into the plot and I really enjoyed learning more about these tribes. Joel is a loyal and tender man who is searching for his brother that failed to meet him at a rendezvous spot. Elan is a Nez Perce woman lost in grief who is only trying to outrun her despair. They cross paths on the wintery slopes of the mountains and forge a friendship that is sweet and transcends their language barrier as Elan and her friend Meksem guide the group to where Joel’s brother was last seen. Getting to travel with Beaver Tail, Susanna, French, and Caleb again was like hanging out with old friends.

If you enjoy historical romance set in the wilderness, you will definitely enjoy this book. I received a copy of the book from the publisher via Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
Profile Image for Shannon The Co-Captain.
1,049 reviews
January 6, 2024
3 ⭐️⭐️⭐️

I read this for a challenge where I needed certain letters within the title and this was one of two choices. This one had much higher ratings so I went with it. It’s the second in the series and I think I may have liked the first book better and I definitely plan to go back and read that book as I was more interested in their story since those characters are in this book. I just hope for their sake and mine, they had an easier road to go. Man, if it could happen to these people, it did. The Hero was shot not only once, but twice. They had their horses stolen by some Natives, they were attacked by wolves, they fell through ice in a river. It never let up and the book was short. The audio was less than 6 hours. I mean, overall it was ok but I would need to read the first book to see if I would actually recommend this or not. Most people have loved it so maybe take my opinion with a grain of salt.
Profile Image for Susan Snodgrass.
2,002 reviews273 followers
April 1, 2020
'She longed for a God she could live for. A purpose for her life.'

Misty Beller just keeps getting better and better. With each book of hers I read, I love her writing more. This time she brings us book two in her Call of the Rockies series. It is full and rich, wonderful characters, plenty to keep any reader captivated and with a wonderful ending. Yet that ending teases of more to come in this series and this reader can't wait!

Profile Image for Terri.
918 reviews
March 16, 2020
We continue the journey to find Joel's brother Adam further in the Rockies. When a snow storm hits our group they take shelter in a cave and find more than protection from the storm there.

Joel is instantly drawn to Elan and she to him even though she is still grieving the loss of her husband and child. She feels compelled to help this group find Adam since she knows where he likely is. They will face many hardships along the way and they will both grow in their love for one another as well as in their faith with God.

This is such a great series and book 2 does not disappoint. We still have the same group of characters traveling together but we add new characters and challenges with this book. It is well written and keeps your attention from beginning to end. I was on edge several times and was so tempted to skip ahead to find out what happened, I didn't but I wanted to. I loved it and highly recommend it.

I received an early copy to read and give my honest opinion. It is a 5 star book for me. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
Profile Image for Sarah.
640 reviews56 followers
April 4, 2020
“From the time she first heard the stories, something had resonated in her heart. A God who created His people, then didn’t leave them to fend for themselves but walked beside them, guiding and helping them. Every time she thought of it, an intense longing stirred deep inside her.”

Although I am a relative newcomer to this author’s work, she has quickly become a favorite. Misty Beller, perhaps more than any other author I’ve known, has a gift for writing variations on a theme without any of her work becoming entrenched in repetition. The nineteenth century has always been my favorite time period, so I was looking forward to this read, and it did not disappoint. Opening in the Bitterroot Mountains in December 1830, “Hope in the Mountain River” brings together a cast of characters who include Joel Vargas, a recent immigrant who is searching for his brother Adam, and Elan, a Nez Perce woman who is desperate to escape the grief of losing her husband and child. Both have heard of the God who loves and walks with His people, but neither have personally encountered Him. As the two groups band together to aid in locating Adam, they soon face trials that will challenge them physically, mentally, and spiritually.

Beller implements a shifting third-person narrative viewpoint in this novel, which serves to provide readers with insight into the thoughts and motives of several characters, especially Joel and Elan. Because they come from such different ethnic backgrounds, this technique is very helpful in understanding them both to a greater extent. Also, their mutual attraction is not straightforward and comes burdened with societal perceptions and their own backstories. Add to this the beautiful yet treacherous landscape and weather, and there is no shortage of conflict to keep readers engaged and anticipating the next step of the adventure.

I received a complimentary copy of this book through Celebrate Lit and was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Lynda.
1,236 reviews35 followers
August 28, 2021
Picks up right after book 1

This story focuses on Joel but all the characters from book 1 are also in this one. I believe you should read this series in order even though each book focuses on one or two characters. If you read this book first, you would not quite understand Susanna 's acceptance. Or how big Caleb is. Or the depth of Beaver.

Going from book 1 to book 2 is seamless. Yet each book does have as an ending so don't worry you'll be left hanging.

In this one Joel is intent on finding his brother, Adam. And when they run into two Shoshone women also traveling in the winter in the Rockies, which all involved know is extremely dangerous, the woman agree to escort the group to the Shoshone camp where Adam might be.

Elan is a grieving mother who lost her little girl and her husband. Her friend is a female warrior ... And yes, there were such .

Nothing is easily done. No one is easily made well. This is the winter of 1830-1831. Accidents do happen even when no one is careless.

I recommend this book too but please read these in order. All appear to be on Kindle Unlimited.
Profile Image for Debbie.
2,602 reviews4 followers
April 9, 2020
"Hope in the Mountain River " by Misty M. Beller is another great book that you can actually see the scenes in your mind as you read it. These book are written so well that you want to keep reading all after the book has ended.

This is the second in the series but it would be easy to follow even if you didn't read the first. But, as always I recommend that you do read them all, even the others in different series.

These books make me willing to face adventures knowing that God will send help along the way.

I really liked how the gospel was shared between there characters and not in a preachy way. I think even non believers wouldn't have a problem reading this book.

I would really like to see these books made into movies.

I was given a complimentary copy by the author and Celebrate Lit. These opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Janice Sisemore.
1,661 reviews16 followers
April 8, 2020
Hope in the mountain river

I loved Elan and Joel’s story. I have not heard the name Elan before, I love unique names in a book. Joel is looking for his brother Adam but he accidentally get shot. Will he recover from being shot? Elan is going to do her best to help him.

Another great historical book by the author. Set in December, 1830,Bitterroot Mountains, future Montana Territory. I loved how caring Elan is. I also enjoyed that the dog in the story. Great mountain adventure.

I received a complimentary copy of the book from Celebrate Lit. This book review is my own opinion.
Profile Image for Wendy.
525 reviews23 followers
September 14, 2021
This is yet another great story by Misty Beller, I have enjoyed every one of her books. She goes into such detail and make you feel like you are right there in the story. I also appreciate the fact that they are all clean stories and the faith her characters either have or gain.
Profile Image for Timothy Hendricks.
477 reviews6 followers
March 9, 2020
This was an exceptional story. I always enjoy reading Misty Beller's books. She is such a gifted storyteller. The stories are well researched so that they fit the time period as well as the tribes she includes in her stories. They are also very well written and she doesn't take long to get you hooked into the story to the point that it is hard to put the book down until you are finished. And when you are finished your always left wanting more. This is also true with this book. The characters were all great in this story and I enjoyed reconnecting with some of the characters of past volumes. I especially loved the characters of Elan and Meksem the two Nez Perce Indian Women that Joel Vargas and his fellow travelers meet up as they search for Joel's brother Adam. I enjoy the relationship that builds between Elan and Joel and the relationship that starts between Adam and Meksem which I am ensure will continue in the next volume in the series. The pace of the story is great as it moves through the storyline. I also like how the faith of each character builds as they meet each of the challenges that each character must face. I would recommend this book. Best of all there is no profanity and the story is very uplifting. I look forward to reading more about Meksem and Adam.
Profile Image for Ruth Ann Lingwall.
Author 1 book33 followers
May 13, 2020
When Elan journeyed from her home after the death of her daughter and husband, she never expected to meet someone who could fill the emptiness consuming her heart. She yearns for something to live for, a fulfilling purpose. These desires cause her to wonder about her relationship with God.



A seemingly accidental meeting in the wilderness leads to Elan and her friend Meksem agreeing to guide Joel Vargas and his group on their quest to find Adam, Joel’s brother. But nothing, with God involved in our lives, is really accidental. Joel and Elan are drawn to each other from their first meeting. Elan’s heart is not healed from her loss and she fears falling in love.



As they traverse the wilderness in this second book of the Call of the Rockies series, the dangers of the winter test their faith. Both Joel and Elan turn to God individually as the only source of protection and healing.

One of the things I enjoyed was reading about the different native american cultures depicted in Hope in the Mountain River. I also especially enjoyed scenes with an adorable toddler. It surprised me to realize some tribes had such negative views of each other. Yet the members of the group in this adventure worked to see the good in each other and overcome any racial prejudices.

...surely there was some good among the tribe. As Joel said, I’ve always tried to judge a man according to his own actions, not what people or tribe he was born into.


I enjoyed the little details that showed Joel’s and Elan’s growing feelings for each other. Their concern and tender care for each other is charming!

Misty M. Beller puts her characters through a lot. It was difficult to put this book down during the final chapters!

As the book concludes, Joel, Elan, and their friends embark on a new mission which I predict will be extremely challenging. All the important plot points of this novel and the romance wound up well by the end.



I want to learn how the characters make it out of their dilemmas in the next book of the series! If you love Christian historical romance, especially set in early America, check out this captivating story.

I received a free advanced reader copy of this book. All opinions are completely my own.
Profile Image for Jessica Baker (A Baker's Perspective).
1,437 reviews89 followers
April 2, 2020
The word hope is not only in the title, but woven all throughout the book. I absolutely love how Elan refers to God – as “God of white man”. What she needs to find, and you see her journey in this, is that God is her God too, not just white man. What a beautiful theme for us all to understand – God is here for everyone. Doesn’t matter race, sex, your current beliefs, etc… He wants a relationship with us all.

Once again, Beller sweeps readers into the wilderness, with her descriptive words and breathtaking settings. It’s easy to get lost in the story and forget where you are while reading. Beller has such a way with words, and in this novel I was quite impressed with the different dialogues she had to create and keep through the story – different native languages, French, English, and even slight sign language (for lack of a better term). Not once does she mix up how characters talk, and I imagine that is difficult to do in the writing world.

I was so happy to read Joel’s story, and his search for his brother (sorry no spoilers here!). But what I savored even more, was the relationship between him and Elan. The growing feelings for each other were sweet, gentle, and over time grew into something beautiful and amazing. It didn’t overtake the rest of the story either – it was the perfect amount of romance for this reader.

Readers are in for a treat, not only with this book, or this series, but with all of Misty’s books. I highly recommend Hope in the Mountain River, but suggest starting with book one. It’s too good not to! I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
6,193 reviews
April 6, 2020
Misty M Beller has done it again with, Hope in the Mountain River. It is book two from Call of the Rockies series. Even though it is part of the series, I believe readers can read it as a stand alone. Although, they definitely do not want to miss book one, Freedom in the Mountain Wind.
I absolutely loved taking this journey with Joel and Elan. Their adventure takes them to action and danger. The author has great talent to keep her readers engaged throughout her books. The details of the story were so vivid, I felt like I was right there. It is an emotional read at times that made me think.

I am giving Hope in the Mountain River a very well deserved five plus stars. I hope there will be a third book from the Call of the Rockies series. I highly recommend it to others readers.

I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
Profile Image for Jeanette Fallon.
808 reviews17 followers
April 3, 2020
Hope in the Mountain River



What a beautiful story! I am always amazed of Misty M. Beller's writing. She clearly describes the scenery and the fine details in all her books. I am not just reading her story. I am almost in her story.

Elan has suffered much sorrow. She was not sure how she can heal from this. Joel was on a mission to find his brother. The two met and this lovely story describes what they learned and discovered.

Both joe l and Elan suffered much. How can one get through so much pain? The answer is trusting GOD and believing that HE will never forsake you. He is there always. Good times and bad.

GOD hears our prayers. Always. Elan discovered GOD gives us strength and comfort. We just need to be open and listen to what HE is trying to tell us.

I received this book for free from Celebrate Lit to review.

About the Book
Book: Hope in the Mountain River
Author: Misty M. Beller
Genre: Christian Historical Romance
Release Date: March 31, 2020

This epic journey is not at all what she expected.
Joel Vargas can’t believe he’s lost his older brother in the wilds of the Rocky Mountains after surviving their harrowing voyage across the Atlantic. And he can’t shake the feeling that Adam—his only living relative—is in dire trouble. No matter what the cost, he and his band of friends won’t stop until Adam is found. He doesn’t have time to contend with the two Indian women who seem to be shadowing his every move.
After the devastating loss of her daughter and husband to a sickness that swept through their Nez Perce camp, Elan is desperate to find an escape from her grief. As she and her friend journey through the mountains toward the great river, a band of white men is the last thing she expects to find, especially as winter blows in full force.
When the dangers increase, accomplishing Joel’s mission becomes the only hope for all their survival. If the elements don’t consume them, Elan has a feeling life will never be the same for any of them.
From a USA Today bestselling author comes another epic journey through breathless landscapes and intense adventure.

Click here to get your copy.


About the Author

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.
She was raised on a farm in South Carolina, so her Southern roots run deep. Growing up, her family was close, and they continue to keep that priority today. Her husband and children now add another dimension to her life, keeping her both grounded and crazy.
God has placed a desire in Misty’s heart to combine her love for Christian fiction and the simpler ranch life, writing historical novels that display God’s abundant love through the twists and turns in the lives of her characters.

More from Misty
I’ve always been a horse lover, and was blessed to grow up on a farm. My brother and I each had ponies of our own and rode hours each day. When we were old enough to graduate to full-size horses, we met neighbors who also had horses and loved to ride together. The two mares they rode had a mottled black and white spotted look, which I knew to be part of the Appaloosa breed. Through hears of riding together, I developed a deep appreciation for those two Appaloosa horses, as well as respect for the entire breed! Those two mares proved they could outrun and outlast any of the other horses in our riding group.
I’ve long wanted to include Appaloosas in one of my stories, especially since the breed was said to have begun in the Nez Perce tribe who lived just west of the Rocky Mountains. I’m so excited for you to meet Elan, the heroine in Hope in the Mountain River!
Elan and her friend are traveling through the Rockies on their Appaloosa horses, animals who can ride faster and longer than all the other horses in their group—even through the treacherous terrain of the Rocky Mountains!
I pray you love this story as much as I loved writing it. Enjoy a glimpse of the famous Appaloosa horse!
Blog Stops
Inklings and notions, March 31
Mary Hake, March 31
Through the Fire Blogs, April 1
deb’s Book Review, April 1
A Baker’s Perspective, April 2
Genesis 5020, April 2
The Meanderings of a Bookworm, April 2
Texas Book-aholic, April 3
Jeanette’s Thoughts, April 3
For the Love of Literature, April 4
Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, April 4
Rebecca Tews, April 5
For Him and My Family, April 5
Blessed & Bookish, April 6
Splashes of Joy, April 6
Bigreadersite, April 6
Betti Mace, April 7
She Lives To Read, April 7
Book of Ruth Ann, April 8
Locks, Hooks and Books, April 8
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 8
Simple Harvest Reads, April 9 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)
D’S QUILTS & BOOKS, April 9
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 10
janicebookreviews, April 10
Blossoms and Blessings, April 11
Adventures of a Travelers Wife, April 11
Artistic Nobody, April 12 (Guest Reviewer Donna Cline)
Pause for Tales, April 12
Library Lady’s Kid Lit, April 13
Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses, April 13
Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Misty is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card!!
Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.
https://promosimple.com/ps/f73b/hope-...
Profile Image for Jeanie.
1,329 reviews1 follower
April 8, 2020
God, if You are real… This prayer is echoed throughout the crises in this second of the Call of the Rockies series. I was happy that the search begun in the first in series continues with the same core group of characters with two new, complex young women. The characters are well-defined, and I felt as if I were there with the incredibly described vistas, wildlife, and events. There are breathtaking, heart-pounding moments and many miles of true companionship amidst people who have gone through extreme ups and downs with each other.

Elan and Meksem have been traveling towards the river for quite some time. Elan needs time alone from The People, the Nez Perce village she had called home. She lost her world, the two people most important to her, in a bear attack, and simply wants to be alone to heal. She needs to find a purpose to wake up in the morning. Meksem is a woman of few words and a very close friend who is as fierce a warrior as any of the men in their village. Winter is underway, and Meksem refused to let her friend go out on her own.

A blizzard is sweeping in when the women meet four men and one woman traveling together as they seek shelter in the same small cave. The group of five friends have grown very close over recent months. Susannah and her husband Beaver Tail’s story is primarily told in “Freedom in the Mountain Wind”. Caleb, a reverend, French, a trapper, and Joel are urgently searching for Joel’s brother Adam. Adam left the camp he and Joel wintered at last year in search of the valued Palouse spotted horses and did not meet up with Joel where promised in the summer. Joel has a gut feeling that something is wrong, that Adam needs him, thus their travel in the Bitterroot mountains in winter.

Meksem knows of villages with Palouse horses. They had not seen anyone with Adam’s description, but she and Elan will take them to the nearest village. Joel is captivated by Elan when first seeing her. There are times throughout that they have whole conversations with their eyes, even as she tries to learn English and they communicate by universal hand signs used by mountain tribes.

Danger follows their every step. Impossibly narrow, icy mountain trails, braves from another tribe come to steal their horses, and pure accidents. There are little joys, as well, such as the small dog that finds and claims Elan. Three of the group of five are Christians. Elan helps Susannah prepare some of their meals and sees the other woman’s faith in the white man’s God. Elan has heard of their God and asks questions about him. Everything in her wants this kind of God, a Father. Joel is also seeing a different kind of faith modeled than what he grew up with in Spain. Their lives are threatened time and again, as if either God doesn’t care about them…or is saving them for something more. Filled with adventure, danger, and possibly romance, this unpredictable yet very satisfying novel takes us closer to where Adam might be, if they aren’t too late. I highly recommend this to anyone who appreciates mid-1800’s historical Christian fiction with gentle witnessing, faith, healing, and…dare we say…hope.

From a thankful heart: I received a complimentary copy of this from Celebrate Lit, and this is my honest review.
Profile Image for Janelle.
604 reviews1 follower
April 2, 2020
This review appears on my blog: https://confessionsofabookwormweb.wor...

’ll be honest, I was a little hesistant to start Hope in the Mountain River because I was worried it would suffer from the second book slump that sequels tend to fall into. However, I was pleasantly surprised and found myself gripped by this beautiful, fast-paced story – for the most part. I think it also helped that even though this is a sequel to Freedom in the Mountain Wind, it isn’t a direct sequel in that we are following two different main characters, with the characters from the previous book in supporting roles.

I loved getting to know Joel more and his dogged determination to find his brother Adam, however there are also times when this determination gets him and his fellow travelers into trouble. There were times, especially in the latter half of the book his character didn’t seem to be fully developed. However, he is good and I love how he is empathetic towards others most of the time.

Then there is Elan, who I loved getting to know and watching her grow as she continues to work through the grief of losing her daughter and husband in an accident sometime before the opening of the story. I also loved her friendship with Meksem, and watching her friendship with the group of traveleres in Joels’s group, as well as Beaver Tail, who comes from an enemy tribe. I also loved watching her learn more about God and faith in Jesus Christ throughout the novel, and how the characters that she encounters during the novel.

Even though I enjoyed the novel, my only complaint is that the majority of the main storyline takes place in the first half of the book and then everything that happens in the second half of the book seems to be added simply for the sake of adding some extra tension to the story that seemed a little unnecessary. However, I still plan on reading more of Misty M. Beller’s books in the future and I hope that there is another installment in this series because I need to know what happens to these characters, even if they are supporting characters in the next book. 3.5/5 Stars.
Profile Image for Blessed & Bookish.
298 reviews28 followers
April 6, 2020
I love Misty M. Beller books. They always have a spectacular setting and genuine, well-developed characters. It is easy to lose yourself in one of her stories without much effort. Hope in the Moutain River is the second book in the Call of the Rockies series, and I had been anticipating continuing the story from the first book, Freedom in the Moutain Wind, as I had fallen in love with the mismatched group of travelers and wanted to know more about each of them.
The second book focuses on Joel and his search for his brother Adam through the cold, rugged mountains of the future Montana Territory. As usual, the author paints a beautiful picture of the landscape so you can feel the bone-chilling bite to the wind and imagine the ever-rising levels of snow.
The story is full of action, as one can imagine all the dangers and obstacles a journey through the Rockies during the winter would entail. I enjoyed the camaraderie and team-work between the group of friends as they continued their journey, but I also thought the two new additions, Elan and Meksem, fit well into the party. It was interesting to learn more about the Nez Pearce people and how a woman like Meksem, could be considered an equal among the braves.
Joel seemed distant and hard in the first book, so I loved getting to know him better in this book. How he felt responsible for not only his brother but his friends as well. He definitely has a softer side, and Elan brought it out of him easily.
Elan has such a pure heart. She’s a character you wish you could know in real life. Although her world was shattered by tragedy, she gives of herself freely to those in need. I enjoyed watching her journey out of her grief and into faith. It was truly inspirational.
If you are a fan of Christian historical fiction/historical romance, you will love this book. Also, if you tend to favor a more western setting, then you will enjoy the scenery of the mountains.
I was given a copy of this book by Celebrate Lit with no expectation of a positive review. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Glenda Parker.
Author 14 books22 followers
March 9, 2020
My review today is on the Historical Western Romance, Hope in the Mountain River. This is book two in the Call of the Rockies Series. I always enjoy Misty's books and look forward to receiving the next one out. This book is an excellent example of her work; it was almost impossible to put down. I'm not sure how she does it each time. Make sure you have a warm blanket there to curl up with when you read it. This story is well written, action packed, and you won't believe everything that happened to Joel.

Elan had just lost her husband and her little daughter to an angry bear. It had been several months but she couldn't deal with all the reminders of her baby girl. She and her friend take off from the village to find some peace. A bad storm is coming up so they seek shelter in a cave. They are sheltered there when a group of three white men, one white woman, and an Indian brave came into their cave. These men are looking for one of the men's brother and want them to guide them to the village. They finally agree to take them.

Joel Vargas is seeking his brother. He feels like his brother is in trouble and has an urgent desire to find him. His brother is seeking for a special breed of horses that the Indians have raised. Joel and his friends, Caleb, French, Beaver Tail and his wife Susanna have been seeking Adam for some months and have had many adventures. (book one) He is thrilled when the women agree to escort them to the village to find him.

A terrible journey through the mountains in the middle of winter. Seven desperate people to fight the elements to find Adam praying that he is still alive. God has a plan for this group of friends. A plan for a hope and a future. God has a plan for you too; a good plan and not for evil. Give Him your heart and watch Him move in the midst of your storm.
Profile Image for Nyla Kay.
Author 1 book25 followers
April 5, 2020
Hope in the Mountain River by bestselling author Misty M. Beller is Book 2 in her Call of the Rockies Series. This is a Christian Historical Romantic fiction that brings rugged life in 1800s Montana to life. It caught my attention immediately and was a pleasant diversion while being self-quarantined.

Author Beller does extensive research and has put some fascinating details in her beautifully written novel. I enjoyed the Native American language and like the character Suzanne in Chapter wish I knew it. Everything was easy to imagine with the vivid descriptions. I pondered living in a cave and eating roasted buffalo meat. The things they did or rather had to do pulled at my heartstrings.

This is the tale of Elan. She has endured much and trying hard to heal. It is also the story of Joel. His brother is missing, and Joel has ventured out to search for him. They struggle and encounter danger, but they persevere. I was captivated with their journey and this book. It was hard to stop reading it.

The main and secondary characters are great. Each one has a unique and well established personality. The conversations were smooth and sounded authentic. I looked forward to reading them.

One of the things I loved about this fictional story was its message of faith. Reading about a character coming to God is beautiful. The author did this journey wonderfully. Her message of trusting God is spot on. Faith, hope, and love are included as inspiration in this novel in such a way that I was so moved.

While this is Book 2 in the series, it could easily be read as a stand alone. I enjoyed Book 1, Freedom in the Mountain Wind, and am glad I had already read it. This series is very good. I highly recommend it. It gets a 5 out of 5 star rating from this reader. A copy was provided by a Celebrate Lit but these are my honest words.
1,575 reviews31 followers
April 2, 2020
MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK 

Hope in the Mountain River continues from  the first book in the Call of the Rockies Series. Joel is still in search if his brother, as the group continues their journey through the dangerous Rocky Mountains. Again they are faced with so many dangers, but struggle to keep going. I was happy to see the characters from the first book again, especially Beaver Tail and his white woman wife. Though we read about all of the characters as they journey, this book focuses more on Joel, and Elan, sweet Elan.

Again Misty Beller so expertly pens a story that will grip the hearts of her readers. Just when I think she just can’t get any better, this story is even better than her last one. I love the returning characters as well as the new ones we meet in this book. And I am amazed how this author can take the same characters on the same journey as her last book, and find so many different scenes to write about. And I especially appreciate the way faith in the Lord is written in the lives of some of the characters, and in such a subtle way, it seems so real. I can not wait to read book three in this series. Ms. Beller left us with just enough suspense to make us want to continue this series.

I highly recommend this book, and especially if you love this genre. And even though this book can be read a stand alone, you will enjoy it more reading them in order. And I highly recommend this author as well. Check out all of her book, you just can’t go wrong with any of them.

A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Profile Image for Kimmie.
531 reviews24 followers
April 8, 2020
I have to say that the description of this book does not do it justice.
Hope in the Mountain River is book 2 in Misty M. Beller’s Call of the Rockies series. This book can be read as a standalone, although I recommend reading them in order as the first book sets the scene for this one. However, there are no loose threads and you can just read this one by itself if you choose too.
“This epic journey is not at all what she expected” is such an understatement 😊 Hope in the Mountain River took me on a great adventure, one that I didn’t want to come back from! I loved the characters, both Joel and Elan were very well developed and showed some great emotion. Joel is in relentless pursuit of his lost brother, he is a protector, and he overcomes some great personal and spiritual struggles. Elan is one strong woman. She struggles through so much and yet finds immeasurable happiness on the other side. I truly think that she is a great role model. Elan was also a fascinating character because of her Native American background, I thought Misty M. Beller worked that into the storyline wonderfully.
I also really enjoyed the way Misty M. Beller always manages to work in the saving grace of Jesus Christ into her books. She truly puts Jesus and at the center, and you can see it interwoven throughout the adventures, as well as the thoughts and the actions of the characters.
I give this book 5 out of 5 stars for the descriptive scenery, the great characters, and the compelling storyline. Also, because I cannot wait to read the next book in the series 😊.
*I volunteered to read this book in return for my honest feedback. The thoughts and opinions expressed within are my own.

Profile Image for Erin.
2,155 reviews20 followers
April 6, 2020
My Thoughts on Hope in the Mountain River:
I love how this series combines the white people and the native people of the Rocky Mountains. When you read this book you are getting a wonderful description of what the mountains look like and the terrain. You’re seeing what it might have been like to travel and risk your life daily. I love that about this series and this book.

Immediately after starting this book, I fell in love with Elan. She’s a new character to this series and one full of mystery but also sorry. There is so much to learn and find out about her.

Book two in a series this one follows the story started in the first. While it can be read as a stand-alone book, it’s going to be a much richer read if you have read the first book first.

I loved the cover. Misty Beiler is one of my favorite authors and I honestly could not wait for this next book in the series to arrive. As soon as it did I opened the cover and began devouring the new to me story. It did not disappoint and now I can’t recommend it enough to you. As always, I recommend reading a series in order and not skipping book one. You won’t regret it!

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
Profile Image for Donna C.
496 reviews12 followers
April 11, 2020
What I think you should know:
Hope in the Mountain River is a Western Historical Christian Romance. It is the second in the Call of the Rockies Series by Misty M. Beller. While you could jump in with this book I highly recommend that you start with the first book in the series so that you can meet and fall in love with the core groups of characters. This book starts in December of 1830 in what will become Montana.

What you might need to know:
Elan lost her Daughter and Husband suddenly.

What I think about this book:
Beller has a gift, when I read one of her stories I feel like I am in the story instead of just reading about it. Hope in the Mountain River is no exception to this, once I again I felt like I was transported back in time to a land that is wild and rugged, one that requires its inhabitants to be strong and persistent. Joel was already a favorite from the first book in the series, I loved getting to know him better. Elan and Meksem, two native women were new additions to the story, Elan had tragically lost her daughter and husband and is unsure how to face life going forward. While her story was heartbreaking. I marveled at her strength. Beller once again was able to share her beliefs naturally in the story. I loved this book and can’t wait to read the third book in the series.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Deana Dick.
3,124 reviews134 followers
April 3, 2020
The story is so descriptive that it is easy for me to feel like I’m there shivering in the snow as the horses trudge along. It is not an easy journey that Elam and Joel take through the mountains. The majestic beauty of snow topped mountains are to visualize as the story delivers a realistic look at December 1830 in Montana. As I read the story I kept thinking how we sometimes take things for granted. Can you imagine having to use a cave as a way to stay warm or a campfire that required wood throughout the night?
Elam and Joel find danger that threatens them from accomplishing their mission. I liked how the author slowly builds their relationship. What I really liked was how Elam came to know God in a way that she never thought possible. I am really enjoying this series and have to say how every story has a great message that we can all glean from. Hope, trust and faith are the main themes in this story and the author captures each one with several characters who struggle surrendering to God. The book can be read as a stand alone but I would recommend the first one to get a feel for the characters better.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
2,072 reviews
April 13, 2020
This is the second in the Call of the Rockies series and the search for Joel's brother, Adam continues. As the group heads out towards the last known rumored place he was last seen they end up meeting two Native American women, Elan and Meksam.

Elan is leaving her village after the loss of her husband and daughter as she can no longer stand the memories. But news of a sickly Adam seems to be at her village, and Joel and his group have asked them for help. Sensing a deep longing and sadness that mirrors her own, she decides to help them, especially Joel.

What follows is an adventure of one woman returning home and opening her heart to another man. Joel also finally has a glimmer of hope of finding his brother alive, and just maybe a chance for his happily ever after. However, both Joel and Elan will find a bolder and more brilliant love with a God who has always been with them. And be prepared for another heart pounding adventure!

I like how this series seamlessly blends into one another and I look forward to the next.

I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review.

https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
Profile Image for Mary Hake.
Author 4 books412 followers
March 31, 2020
The story continues from Book 1 in the Call of the Rockies series. Joel continues his search for his brother, Adam, who trekked into the Northwest wilderness and is staying with a native tribe for the winter. He teams up with others he meets and struggles to keep going despite the harsh elements and trials they meet. Their party is made up of Indians and whites, with one couple who married in the first book. The other main character in this one is Elan, a widow. So it’s best to read the series in order, but this novel can stand alone. It amazes me that with all the adventures the author has penned with similar settings that she still finds new situations and challenges to include in her books. This one certainly keeps you turning pages to see if the people survive and how it will all turn out. The setting and characters seem so real. One theme that flows through the book is dealing with loss. It also includes coming to faith. I like the way characters from various backgrounds unite and form strong bonds and work together—a good example for the world to follow. I received a copy from Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.
847 reviews14 followers
April 11, 2020

"Hope in the Mountain River" is the second book in the Call of the Rockies series. You could read this book as a standalone book, but you do lose some of the back story of Joel and his group of friends. There were many perils that they faced and it kept me guessing what was going to happen. There was a clear Biblical gospel message. A lot of the time, books have one character who is strong in faith and one who is weaker, but in this book it was interesting that both main characters were searching for God. The epilogue was not really an epilogue with it only being two days later. The end of the book kind of left you hanging. Joel and Elan acknowledge their feelings for each other, but then something happens that, I think, sets up the next book in the series. It felt like the cliffhanger you would have at the end of a television series to set it up for the next season. It left me wanting to know what was going on, but then it ended. I look forward to finding out the rest of the story.


I got a free copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own and given voluntarily. No compensation was received for my review.
Profile Image for Tabitha Bouldin.
Author 54 books706 followers
April 1, 2020
If this series gets any better, I won’t be able to stand it…Just kidding. I loved book one, and never imagined I could enjoy another book more till I read Hope in the Mountain River.

Joel and Elan’s story is filled with danger, hope, amazing landscapes, and a love story bound to make you cheer.

Once I started this book, I couldn’t put it down. I know I’ve said that before, but Misty M. Beller always manages to capture my attention through every twist and turn on her characters’ journeys. There’s no end of danger, for everyone, but the thread of hope never unravels or breaks.

I felt like I could have been riding alongside these characters, breathing in every moment of the story.

Joel has spent years running from God, and Elan only knows of God through what she has heard from others. But God has not forsaken them. He’s there in every moment, through every harrowing danger. I could feel that emotion seeping from the pages.

I requested a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. I was not required to leave a positive review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
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