Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Call of the Rockies #4

Courage in the Mountain Wilderness

Rate this book
Keeping her son safe on this epic journey may be harder than she imagined.

Caleb Jackson is on a journey. And not just the mission he and his friends have embarked on to fetch the Nez Perce chief’s runaway daughter. Maybe someday, he could also find God’s plan for his life. He’d once thought being a small town minister was the Lord’s will for him, but he’d proved a failure at living under the scrutiny of his congregation. Yet the chief’s niece and her feisty toddler accompanying them on this expedition make him feel like he might be able to make a difference yet.

Otskai is eager to take on a challenge. She’s lived under the shelter of other’s choices her entire life, especially when she was betrothed to one of the village braves at the tender age of eight. Now with her husband's death, she’s finally found the freedom she always craved—even with a two-year-old to raise. She’s built her camas root harvest into a thriving trade to provide all she and her son need and more, yet she can’t seem to keep her active child safe. When she agrees to accompany her new friends on a trip to bring back her wayward cousin, she knows she’ll have her hands full managing her boy.

The journey turns out nothing like Otskai expects, and for the first time in her life, she’s thankful to have others around to help. Especially Caleb, whose gentle attentions captivate her son and occupy him for hours at a time. But as the danger escalates and her worst fears come to light, she must find the courage to choose between freedom and a love more liberating than she imagined possible.

From a USA Today bestselling author comes another epic journey through breathless landscapes and adventure so intense, lives will never be the same.

Audible Audio

Published March 5, 2021

Loading...
Loading...

About the author

Misty M. Beller

132 books2,423 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.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
793 (65%)
4 stars
281 (23%)
3 stars
102 (8%)
2 stars
19 (1%)
1 star
7 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
Profile Image for MJSH.
1,413 reviews80 followers
March 22, 2021
"He didn't want to stay on the outside, neither outside her fence nor outside her life."

I have been waiting for Caleb's story and it surely does not disappoint. Caleb's tender, compassionate, and faithful heart is on every page of this book and I think this is the most romantic of Misty Beller's books I've read so far. I loved Caleb's gentle, protective ways that earn Otskai's trust, even when verbal communication is difficult. Caleb's interactions with Otskai's toddler son are so precious. Otskai herself is quite the heroine, someone who's survived multiple tragedies yet came out strong as a survivor. I really enjoyed seeing the entire group of friends (Beaver Tail and Susanna, Joel and Elan, Adam and Meksem) together and happy; only French is left to find his happily-ever-after.

The plot involves another crossing into the wilderness to fulfill a quest in exchange for Meksem's tomahawk. They don't face the wintery mountainous struggles that the author is known to pen but still have battles in the wilderness against rivers and wildlife. Otskai's curiosity and soft heart toward God are quite endearing as is Caleb's desire to lead her to faith. Caleb's devotion to Otskai and her son is absolutely swoon-worthy. This book set in 1831 Idaho Territory is book 4 in Call of the Rockies series and the books should be read in order to fully savor the stories and characters.

I received the book via Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are solely my own.
Profile Image for Kaitlyn S..
253 reviews19 followers
March 8, 2021
This book was not my cup of tea . . . honestly, it might have been because I didn't realize this was book 4 in the series. Or it might have been because some of the characters seemed a bit forced, and I never really connected with them.
Or it might have just been me . . . and judging from the reviews on Goodreads, there is good possibility of that!

The story had great potential -- it really did. I just never connected with any of the characters. They seemed too unidimensional to me. Too simple, not complex enough. Otskai, in particular, drove me crazy. She's part of the New Perce tribe, which is known for its communal living -- and yet, she's always thinking about what's going to happen to her if she fails to harvest enough food, or trap enough skins, or . . . and on it goes. And she was the niece of the chief, and grew up in his family because she was an orphan. So I'm pretty sure that her relationship with the chief would have guaranteed her to be cared for, but that wasn't the case in the story.

She was a very strong-willed, determined woman, and it came across as very feministic, and who has ever heard of a feministic Indian woman in the 1800's? It just wasn't done, folks. This ideology hadn't been introduced to *most* American women by then, much less a tribe of people in the middle of the mountains. And I can't stand it when we take modern ideologies and force them into a historical novel. It just doesn't work very well.

The writing style also felt a bit stilted to me, and I couldn't really get into it, but, again, that could just be me. I like long, complex words, and these were simple words, which in some setting could be nice, I suppose.

I generally read a story to learn *something* and I simply didn't learn much from this one. It felt like a "potato chip" book, compared to one that could be a whole meal, if you get what I mean.

This book simply was not for me. Maybe, if light reading is your thing, you might enjoy it. Judging from the ratings on Goodreads, I'm definitely the minority here =)

*I received a copy of this book from the Celebrate Lit review program. I was not required enjoy this book, merely asked to give my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Brittany .
3,015 reviews219 followers
April 3, 2021
Courage in the Mountain Wilderness is an enjoyable addition to the Call of the Rockies series. It is book four of the series, so readers should be aware of this. If you haven’t read the other books in the series, you should still be able to enjoy this one, just know that there are other characters who are part of this traveling group whose stories have been told in earlier novels.

I really liked Caleb and Otskai, as well as Otskai’s son, River Boy. I loved the way Caleb bonded with River Boy and found joy in keeping the young toddler entertained on the trail. Otskai was drawn to Caleb, yet hesitant to allow her heart to trust another man. Caleb was the epitome of kindness. His caring heart toward Otskai and River Boy, as well as his willingness to risk his life for them, endeared him to me as a character. I’m looking forward to finding out French’s backstory in the next book!

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 Laur.
905 reviews138 followers
April 16, 2026
Although the story was fine in itself, it was predictable - almost repeating the plot (except for changing the characters involved.) I felt it was a shared storyline, not being very unique since the main plot (and events) were very similar to two other books in this series.

Although a similar storyline, it was still an enjoyable story and this is a satisfying series with likable strong characters. Anxiously awaiting next in series!

3.5 stars
Profile Image for Sarah.
641 reviews56 followers
April 16, 2021
Misty Beller never fails to deliver an adventurous, romantic historical novel that takes readers on an uplifting journey through the mountains. One of the aspects of these stories that I most appreciate is the fact that they are not sensationalized; I personally prefer a more realistic approach, with some danger and excitement written in but not belabored. My experience with Beller’s writing so far has been thoroughly satisfying: a gratifying mixture of both the serenity of nature and its inherent peril.

“Courage in the Mountain Wilderness,” book four in the “Call of the Rockies” series, weaves together the stories of former minister Caleb Jackson and Nez Perce widow Otskai, who has her hands full keeping her spirited two-year-old son, River Boy, out of trouble. Reading this series in order is not required, but I do recommend it for a more enriching experience; the main characters are part of a diverse group that travels together to accomplish missions, which in this case is bringing home the Nez Perce chief’s strong-willed daughter, Otskai’s cousin. I enjoy how they work together and take care of each other despite their ethnic differences. As Caleb thinks to himself when considering Otskai, “How hard it must be to travel with people who always spoke a foreign tongue.” The effort that they make to effectively communicate and learn each other’s language points to mutual respect and how people of different backgrounds can come together. This is a lesson that never becomes outdated!

Furthermore, the element of faith that Beller infuses into “Courage in the Mountain Wilderness” stems from recognizing and acknowledging different backgrounds. It is a gentle reminder to keep our testimony simple and to make sure that we are speaking in the hearer’s language. This doesn’t always just refer to someone’s mother tongue, but also to their level of knowledge about Christianity. People who are unfamiliar with the Bible and with church may well be intimidated if we use religious terms rather than speaking less formally. Otskai finds herself drawn to God through her struggles after Adam, another member of the group, talks to her: “He put is so simply, laid out a picture that called to her in its simplicity. In the image Adam painted, she wouldn’t have to find her own way in life. She worked so hard. And she accomplished much, yet it never seemed enough. There was always more. Always something she failed at, like protecting her son. Could God forgive those failures, put those bad things behind her? Could he show her a better way? She wasn’t sure she could stand putting her life under the control of another man who would be scrutinizing her every move. Expecting perfection. Was that what God would require?”

Overcoming trauma also plays a large role in this heartwarming story. Due to being orphaned at a young age, Otskai has fears that are put to the test along the mountain trek. She also fears failure as a mother and as an overall tribe member as she strives to keep her energetic son safe while doing daily chores. Likewise, Caleb is determined to minister to those in need on an individual level. As situations arise, both have to examine their own hearts to decide what freedom means to them, and to find their “Courage in the Mountain Wilderness.”

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 Tressa (Wishful Endings).
1,839 reviews198 followers
Read
April 22, 2021
3.5 Stars

COURAGE IN THE MOUNTAIN WILDERNESS is a story about two people of different cultures who journey together, facing challenges and building friendships and must decide if they're willing to trust their hearts. It's a story of faith, found family, and romance. Recommended to fans of the author and the genre.

I loved both of the main characters! Caleb is a steady, gentle giant. He's strong and tough, which you have to be in the wilderness, but he also has a calm and loving presence. He is especially attracted to Otskai and is slow to decide what to do about it. Otskai and her son are just sweet together, but she has had to also learn to stand on her own and support them both. She isn't sure she wants to tie herself to a man again. Their journey is a slow-build romance and also a growth faith as Otskai learns more about the faith of her companions. I loved the realistic feelings of Otskai as a mother and the antics of her son. The faith element is fairly strong, but not pushy. The romance was definitely my favorite aspect of this story.

There were a couple of issues I had with the story. One was that I wanted a more distinct difference in the voices of the two character POV's. I felt like Otskai should have used "Great Spirit" initially before using English language. It's like she just went from being a native not believing to believing and using English terms. I wanted more of a transition. I also wanted more of a transition between the characters learning each others' language. From the synopsis I was also expecting more danger and intensity. There was some, but quite a bit milder so I think I went in expecting one thing and got something a bit different. Not necessarily bad, of course.

In the end, was it what I wished for? Overall this was a steady read and enjoyable from beginning to end. Readers will fall in love with these characters and their romance.

Content: Clean
Source: I received a complimentary copy through Celebrate Lit, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Kelly-Ann ~ Sassy Bookish Mama.
723 reviews96 followers
April 6, 2021
There is a reason I try to be a stickler to reading a series in order. This is book 4 in the Call of the Rockies series and this one begins the story of Caleb. I felt like I was missing something not knowing a little bit of background on some of the characters and the storyline. So of course I added the rest of the titles to my TBR list in hopes of one day reading them. Hopefully I can find them in the library this summer. This book is set in 1831 Idaho Territory and we encounter Caleb who ya'll he derserves my title of swoon-worthy!! The way he is with Otskai and her son is just precious! I loved their interactions and the way she is drawn to knowing more about God makes it such a beautiful part of the story as she has gone through so many tragedies and difficulties.

Misty Beller once again writes an amazing story. I love her writing because its so full of vivid details that completely places you in the scene. She has an amazing way of drawing you into the story. I can't wait to read more from her.

I received this book from the author. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Betti.
1,469 reviews36 followers
March 21, 2021
This wonderful series continues with even more gorgeous views and danger. I can’t imagine what it must have been like to travel through the majestic mountains on horseback, sleeping under the stars, fording streams swollen by spring runoff and unexpected meetings with wild animals.

The plan is to find the chief’s daughter, bring her back to the camp and then the tomahawk that belongs to Meksem will be returned. With dangers, illness, accidents and more confronting them, will they manage to get to the place where Otskai’s cousin is living and will she even be interested in returning with them? It is wonderful to observe how the author brings these well loved characters back in each book and continues to develop them, especially in their faith, which continues to grow as they face great dangers.

An ARC of Call of the Rockies book 4 was received through Misty M. Beller Books and CelebrateLit. The impressions and comments are my own and were in no way solicited.
Profile Image for Janice Sisemore.
1,694 reviews19 followers
April 7, 2021
Courage in the Mountain Wilderness

The title says it all. There is definitely a lot of courage in the mountain wilderness. The book is full of adventure. A lot of very exciting scenes. The young boy River Boy is always causing trouble. He gets too close to the water a lot. He is the son of Otskai who is traveling with Caleb and others. I loved how Caleb took care of River Boy and how Otskai took care of Caleb.

Courage in the mountain wilderness is a fast reading book. Very inspiring and exciting. I enjoyed it very much.

I received a complimentary copy of the book from Celebrate Lit. This book review is my own opinion.
Profile Image for Terri.
956 reviews
March 12, 2021
We continue our journey with our band of friends as they travel once again through the treacherous rocky mountains in search of someone.

When we left off from book 3 our group were back at the camp where the poloosa horse had come from and where Adam and Joel had finally found each other and recovered from their injuries. The reason for this trip back to that village was to retrieve the precious tomahawk that Meksem had traded for the horse she gave to Adam. He is determined to get the tomahawk back for Meksem before they marry. Now we are continuing the story with Caleb. This journey is focused on Caleb and Otskai and how they find love and the struggles they must face to get together. Caleb and his friends along with Otskai and her son River Boy journey to find Otskai's cousin and the group will have many challenges along the way but together along with their faith they survive.

I have enjoyed this series so much because it continues with the same characters but each book is focused on a specific character so we continue our journey but are adding more along the way. It is well written and shows the hardships people during this time must have faced.

I received an early copy to read and review with my honest opinion. I loved it and highly recommend it. You don't have to read the first three books in this series to enjoy this book but I recommend you do as they are all terrific.
Profile Image for Sunnie.
1,029 reviews50 followers
March 19, 2021

This was a great addition to the Call of the Rockies Series. There was lots of adventure as they set forth to bring back a member of the Nez Perce tribe that was known to be with the Shoshones tribe. Lots of accidents and tribulation as Otskai and Caleb and a few others set forth to make the long trip. And don't forget the danger! It keeps you quite spellbound and you want to find our what happens to Otskai and also those that you meet from an earlier book. I really enjoyed this book. The author keeps you totally captivated as you travel along in the rough Rockies.

I received an ebook copy from the author. All thoughts are my own.
161 reviews2 followers
September 26, 2022
Another great book from Misty.

I love Misty's descriptions. It seems as she was there by the fires, cooking, sewing and cleaning hides. There is always a lot of excitement and pain thrown in. I can imagine all the hazard and pain the explorer's, Indians and frontiers went through is those hundreds of years ago. Through the pain and sorrow there is always God taking care and watching them.
Profile Image for Sylvia.
553 reviews53 followers
March 15, 2021
Another amazing story from Misty M. Beller! Courage in the Mountain Wilderness is full of amazing detail, wonderful characters, and inspiring faith. I always feel like I’m right there with the characters when I read one of Beller’s books, and this one is no exception. Beller has an impeccable ability to draw a reader into the story and never let them go. I can’t wait for more in this series! 4.5/5 stars

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
62 reviews
March 5, 2021
Courage in the Mountain Wilderness continues the saga of a group of friends that started off with Joel searching for his brother Adam. As they journeyed along more friends were added to the group and romance invaded the atmosphere and filled the air! It is amazing how God can put people together at just the right time, even in the wilderness.

Courage in the Mountain Wilderness continues the story of Caleb, Otskai, and her son River Boy. Will Caleb and Otskai end up together as a couple despite the fears and hesitations created by their past? Will Otskai realize that Caleb is a different kind of man than her late husband was? Will her need to make sure that no one controls her life take precedence over her love for Caleb?

Will Adam be able to recover the hatchet that Meksam traded for his prized Palomino horse? This hatchet was her most prized possession, belonging to the father she loved. This book is filled with more adventures, evidence of what faith in God can do, and proof that people from different cultures and ways of life can live in harmony and even merge their lives together.

You don't want to miss this out on this wonderful read!
Profile Image for Shonda.
Author 10 books50 followers
March 6, 2021
Fantastic characters that are so easy to love. This was a great story of love, courage and faith. You will be drawn in from the very first page, with every page this story embeds into your soul. The reader is taken on a journey with The hardships of the wilderness and the love of God that is evident throughout the story. Danger is always lurking ready to steal from those in its path but unity and love for each other regardless of skin color or different life styles is shown throughout, this only pulls you in deeper emotionally. Beautifully written this is a fantastic story that just keeps you believing in love between a man and women that is forever and a love for God that only grows deeper.
Was given a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Heidi Robbins (Heidi Reads...).
1,698 reviews602 followers
January 31, 2022
This series follows a group of travelers as they embark on different missions in the wilderness, and the friends they meet and join with them along the way. At this point in the series three of the men have found love amid their adventures, and in this book I enjoyed getting to know Caleb better. He is cheerful, encouraging, and quickly bonds with Otsaki's son. It takes longer for Otsaki to warm up to him, but his consistency, faith and battle with a grizzly endear him to her. As usual with this author, the Christian message is strong and the characters each grow on their own personal spiritual journey.

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
Profile Image for Mary Stalnaker.
299 reviews14 followers
February 25, 2021
This is the story of Caleb and Otskai, and the 4th book in the series. Each is a stand alone book, but reading them in order will help you with the characters. Ms Beller has done it again with this one. Each of her books is so compelling and you get pulled right into the story. You feel like you are traveling right along with the group. The author has a way of making everything seem so real. I love the way she writes. And, she always weaves in her Christian faith. That makes the books even better as far as I'm concerned. I think you will really enjoy this book, but read the whole series. You won't regret it.
I did receive a copy from the author, but this review is my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Rebekah Russell.
101 reviews1 follower
February 15, 2021
Courage in the Mountain Wilderness..is give this book 10 stars if I could! My new favorite from Misty M Beller!
This books is the 4th book in the Call of the Rockies series. You don’t have to read the others to know what’s going on in this book but I recommend reading them all because they are just so good! This is Caleb and Otskai story. The group is on another mission to get Otskai cousin to come back to her father.
Otskai lost her husband two years ago and is taking care of their son by herself. Along the way Otskai learns to let others help her and learns that love doesn’t have to be a prison sentence. She feels like a lot of mothers feel she’s not doing enough for her son or being what she should be. This is a clean Christian romance that really gets you connected to the characters. This is a fast read and you won’t want the story to end.
262 reviews1 follower
February 21, 2021
I loved this book! Very sweet romance and inspirational.

I picked up this book and could not put it down. I had not read others in the series but I will now go back and read them as this was a refreshing change of pace and a great read!
6,248 reviews
February 11, 2021
Courage in the Mountain Wilderness is yet another fabulous read by Misty M. Beller. This gives me another reason why she is among my favorite authors. I adored Otskai right from the start. I enjoyed the character of Caleb, as well. This is one of those books that will keep the readers attention from start to finish. It was great reading for me on a snowy afternoon. I loved it.

Courage in the Mountain Wilderness is getting a very well deserved five plus stars from me. I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy clean historical fiction. I can not wait for the release for Faith in the Mountain Valley, the fifth book from the Call of the Rockies series. I look forward to find out what happens next.

I received Courage in the Mountain Wilderness from the publisher. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.  
95 reviews3 followers
February 17, 2021
Misty has a way of weaving characters into a story that captures and holds your attention and wanting more. She shows how weaknesses can be turned into strength when we trust God. Her clean, clear writing style makes her one of my favorite authors.
Profile Image for Jeanette Fallon.
843 reviews18 followers
April 10, 2021
Otskai, a mom and a woman who is trying to do the best in her life.  She never feels she is worthy and is always doubting her decisions.  Does this sound familiar to any of you?
A beautiful written story of how GOD impacted the lives of people of all different races and cultures.  
Misty M. Beller can paint a picture with her words.  I find myself in the mountain wilderness with Caleb, Otskai and River Boy.  There are dangers in the wilderness.  Can Caleb survive the danger he encounters?  Can Otskai find the the courage to face the danger she encounters? 

I will continue reading every book Misty M. Beller publishes. Her books brings me enjoyment with every page.  
I received this book for free from Celebrate Lit to give a honest review.

About the Book

Book:  Courage in the Mountain Wilderness
Author: Misty M. Beller
Genre: Christian Historical Romance
Release date: April 6, 2021
Keeping her son safe on this epic journey may be harder than she imagined.
Caleb Jackson is on a journey. And not just the mission he and his friends have embarked on to fetch the Nez Perce chief’s runaway daughter. Maybe someday, he could also find God’s plan for his life. He’d once thought being a small town minister was the Lord’s will for him, but he’d proved a failure at living under the scrutiny of his congregation. Yet the chief’s niece and her feisty toddler accompanying them on this expedition make him feel like he might be able to make a difference yet.
Otskai is eager to take on a challenge. She’s lived under the shelter of other’s choices her entire life, especially when she was betrothed to one of the village braves at the tender age of eight. Now with her husband dead, she’s finally found the freedom she always craved—even with a two-year-old to raise. She’s built her camas root harvest into a thriving trade to provide all she and her son need and more, yet she can’t seem to keep her active child safe. When she agrees to accompany her new friends on a trip to bring back her wayward cousin, she knows she’ll have her hands full managing her boy.
The journey turns out nothing like Otskai expects, and for the first time in her life, she’s thankful to have others around to help. Especially Caleb, whose gentle attentions captivate her son and occupy him for hours at a time. But as the danger escalates and her worst fears come to light, she must find the courage to choose between freedom and a love more liberating than she imagined possible.
From a USA Today bestselling author comes another epic journey through breathless landscapes and adventure so intense, lives will never be the same.
 
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

 
Mom Guilt—it’s real, no matter what your race or tribe.
One of the things I love about writing the Call of the Rockies series is the cast of characters that covers almost more races than I can count on all my fingers! From Spaniards, to Frenchman, to Southern Americans, to Blackfoot, to Nez Perce, to Salish, to Shoshone. And let’s not talk about the various sectors within some of the tribes (Peigan Blackfoot, Blood Blackfoot, Pikunin of the Nez Perce…oops, we weren’t going to talk about those!).
But what I love the most about so many people groups represented is learning how much we really are alike, down deep in our cores! Sure, some are introverts, some are extroverts. Some like to swim, some hate to swim. Some like to cook, some like to play with the kids (okay, maybe most like to play with the kids!).
Yet there are common threads that connect us all. As I was writing Courage in the Mountain Wilderness, I discovered a new thread that I have in common with Otskai, the Nez Perce hero of the story.
Mom guilt.
Yep. Our situations are a little different—I’m married with four kiddos, and she’s widowed with one very energetic two-year-old son. But we both struggle with that same push and pull. That same set of conflicting longings. When I’m with my kiddos, sometimes I just desperately want time alone. Time to actually get things done. But then at night when they snuggle close at bedtime, wrapping their sweet arms around my neck and not just saying, but showing, how much they love me, I can’t imagine how I could ever want to do anything but spend time with these sweet little ones God has trusted me with.
Thus, the guilt.
Maybe Otskai and I are the only ones who’ve ever experienced that particular strain of Mom Guilt. But I’ll bet there are other ways you can relate—both to these very real fictional characters who may or may not be the same race as you. And also to the very real real-life characters you meet every day.
The great news is that God loves each and every one of us, Mom Guilt and all.

Blog Stops

lakesidelivingsite, April 6
Library Lady’s Kid Lit, April 6
Blossoms and Blessings, April 6
Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, April 7
reviewingbooksplusmore, April 7
A Modern Day Fairy Tale, April 8
cats in the cradle blog, April 8
Betti Mace, April 9
Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, April 9
For the Love of Literature, April 10
deb’s Book Review, April 10
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 11
Jeanette’s Thoughts, April 11
Texas Book-aholic, April 12
Maidens for Modesty, April 12
Inklings and notions, April 13
Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses, April 13
Older & Smarter?, April 14
Blessed & Bookish, April 14
Locks, Hooks and Books, April 15
Splashes of Joy, April 15
Wishful Endings, April 16
Mary Hake, April 15
For Him and My Family, April 16
She Lives To Read, April 17
Connie’s History Classroom, April 17
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 18
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, April 18
Adventures Of A Travelers Wife, April 19
Simple Harvest Reads, April 19 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)

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/10a1f/cour...
24 reviews
February 15, 2021
Absolutely love Misty Beller's books. I get so involved I cannot put it down. Very well written. You feel like you know each character personally.
Profile Image for Jeanie.
1,341 reviews1 follower
April 6, 2021
I was happy to read this fourth novel in its series, set in 1831 in what would one day become Idaho Territory. The friends traveling together throughout the series have added to their number. The “group had become a tight family, knitted together by the bonds of friendship…where each man’s life lay in the protection of the others.” Characters are defined primarily through their actions and comfortable dialog. The setting is ruggedly gorgeous and potentially deadly. The faith of each person grows over time, some coming to faith in the Lord because of being with the group. I suggest reading the series in order, to see as each person joins the group and the relationships.

Caleb, French, Adam, and Joel had traveled together for over 2 years, then added Susanna and Beaver Tail, Meksem, planning to marry Adam, and Elan, now married to Joel. They are at the Nez Perce camp where Meksem and Elan are from. Not long ago, Meksem had traded the only thing she had from her father, his tomahawk, to the chief of the camp for the most amazing Palouse horse to gift to Adam. Before he will marry her, Adam wants to get the tomahawk back. The monetary value of inlaid gems is nothing compared to the sentimental value to Meksem.

The chief will return the tomahawk in exchange for only one thing: Adam and his friends bringing back the chief’s daughter, Wakuese, who left with a group of Shoshone a couple years ago. He suggests they take Otskai, his niece, with them. After the death of her parents, he and his wife raised her with Wakuese as their own, and the girls were close until Wakuese left. Otskai has a two-year-old son whose father was killed before River Boy was born. River Boy is an active, adventurous lad who they rescued from the river, when frozen, a few months ago. Caleb has just rescued the boy again when he toddled to the river to play.

The group of friends, plus Otskai and River Boy, set out to find the Shoshone camp. Caleb is happy to help with River Boy, as is Susanna, pregnant with her first child. Caleb is captivated by Otskai, but she is not interested in marrying again, and does not believe in Jesus. This trip is fraught with many dangers, including a bear attack. Whether they can find Wakuese and talk her into coming back to see her parents is another challenge, as she left to make her own way and her own choices.

The author’s descriptives are excellent! I could almost taste Otskai’s terror when being pulled by the river current, and her yearning when wishing she had the white man’s God who would answer her prayers. The mountains are ruggedly beautiful yet at times brutal, providing a true challenge to anyone traveling through. I can’t imagine how folks found any place they were looking for when they meet few people on the way and trails have no markings. Some things remain the same through the centuries, one being man’s seeking the Lord and trying to believe in all circumstances, another is the need for friendship and working together. The outcome of this novel is unpredictable at any given time. Despite the severe challenges, I was very satisfied with the resolutions, and am looking forward to the next one! I highly recommend this to women of all ages who appreciate Christian historical fiction in the early 1800’s west where both men and women work together for friendship, faith, and survival.

From a thankful heart: I received a copy of this novel from the author and Celebrate Lit, and this is my honest review.
Profile Image for Blessed & Bookish.
301 reviews27 followers
April 12, 2021
Courage in the Mountain Wilderness is the fourth book in the Call of the Rockies series by Misty M. Beller. I have read every book in the series, and this one may be my favorite. (But that’s hard to commit to because I love each story!) This is Caleb and Otskai story as the regular gang (Beaver Tail, Susanna, Joel, Elan, Adam, Meksem, and French) go in search of Otskai’s cousin as a way for Joel to earn Meksem’s tomahawk back from the Nez Perce chief.
Like all of Misty M. Beller’s books, this story takes you through breath-taking mountain country while following the characters on their quest. I always enjoy the landscapes in her books, and how realistic she makes them for the readers. In this book, the rivers and waterfalls play important roles in the story, and I could definitely hear the roaring of the water as I read her words.
Caleb was always a bit quiet in the other books, but always solid, reliable, and godly in his manner. So, I was delighted to get to know him better in this story. His big physical size is proportional to his heart. It amazed me how he could see people through Jesus’ eyes and would step in to help them or pray for them. It was inspiring. I wish we could have gotten a little more information about his backstory, but I can’t complain. I loved his story.
Otskai and her son, River Boy were an excellent addition to the original traveling party. I could totally relate to her wanting a few moments to herself while feeling guilty about not taking care of her son every minute. (A mom’s life!) But it was heartwarming to see everyone in the party step up to help with River Boy--it really does take a village sometimes. And the scenes between Caleb and River Boy were too cute--all the sighs and warm fuzzies.
Overall, I loved Caleb and Otskai’s story. Their slow, tentative romance was perfect for Caleb’s personality and only highlighted what an amazing man he is. Fans of Christian historical fiction, like Tracie Peterson, would enjoy this story. But start at the beginning! You won’t want to miss a single installment of this epic journey!
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 Elizabeth Brooks.
135 reviews16 followers
April 8, 2021
This book is number four in the Call of the Rockies series, so I was a little worried reading this book first before the others. However, I didn’t have trouble understanding the story line or the characters; it was a good read in and of itself.

Historical romance is one of my favorite genres, so I was excited that it also fell in the Christian category. It did not disappoint me. I absolutely adored this book, and couldn’t put it down. I read it in one night.

Otskai has by far become my favorite characters that I’ve ever come across in a book. I could really relate to her on so many levels. Being a single mom myself, I could totally relate to many of the feelings she had as a parent (especially fear and guilt). I’ve also been through trauma that caused me crippling anxiety and PTSD, so I could relate to her intense fears – both physically, emotionally, and relational.

I really love romantic love stories, but rarely read them because they cause me to become depressed. This my first Christian romance book, and I was pleasantly surprised. It left me feeling refreshed, and full of hope. I may have found one of my new favorite things. I really loved how Beller added the pure gospel into the book when Caleb shared his faith with Otskai in a simple way. It was really inspired me reading how Caleb prayed through every aspect of his life; and I highlighted every one as I can’t reiterate enough how much I enjoyed this. I found myself thinking, man I wish I would have prayed like that.

The power of prayer was also introduced when tragedy hit Otskai, and she prayed to “Caleb’s God” to come and save them.

God, please! If you love any of us. Any of these creations Caleb says mean so much to you. Please. Save us. All three of us.

Often times it takes God’s miracles to show us how God’s hands have been on our lives, and how much he loves us. Otskai and Caleb’s story definitely showed the reader that.

Miracle – Something that seems impossible yet actually happened. An act only God could do.

I can’t wait to dive into the rest of the series this summer!
Profile Image for Deana Dick.
3,219 reviews137 followers
April 12, 2021
What I like about this author is how she writes stories that allow readers to feel like they are right there in the midst of what is going on. Her descriptive words help me see the terrain and the characters with ease. I have loved this series and how each character leaves a part of themselves in my heart. I have grown to love their adventures and an excited to see where Caleb and Otskia journey takes them.

What I like about Otskai is how much she loves her child. Her fierce protectiveness sometimes overshadows the child’s ability to have fun but I totally get it. Yes I was and still am at times a helicopter mom. I tensed up when my three boys would tell me things they had done because I was sure they were going to be hurt. What I learned was that I didn’t trust God. Otskai is curious about this God that Caleb talks about and Caleb is hopeful that he can share God to her in a way she understands.

I loved the time period and the different cultures we are introduced to. The author has done a great job in researching to make this story realistic. I’m not sure how long I would last on a horse over the land they traveled. I held my breath as they came upon a river. This part is very tense and I was right there as the water started to take Otskai’s horse adrift. The trip sees our characters encounter bears, a mission to find someone and along the way learn to trust.

The action is good and I loved how Caleb was so gentle and kind with Otskai’s son. I loved his name and how mischievous he was at times. He is a happy child who does like to explore even though danger may be close by. The relationship between Caleb and Otskai is slow and allows us to understand their past. I loved how they spent time sharing their emotions and trusting each other with their inner struggles. It is a beautiful story that spans across the land as they overcome obstacles, face danger, survive hardships and discover unconditional love.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
Profile Image for Glenda Parker.
Author 14 books22 followers
April 12, 2021
My review today is on the Western Romance, Courage in the Mountain Wilderness. This is book four in the series, Call of the Rockies. I am a huge fan of Misty's work. The way she writes puts you right in the midst of the snow storms or raging rivers. This is a book you can't set down. It's well written, action packed, and full of drama. Caleb has always been my favorite character, so I really enjoyed this book. I know you are going to love it.

Caleb Jackson is glad to return to the Nez Perce village. He loved the familiar and this village is like home. He is drawn to one of the maids, a widow with a small child, River Boy. Acute little guy that always seemed to be in trouble. He got his name by being washed away in the river but his friends had saved him. Now as he rode into the village he spotted the boy by the river alone. He manages to save the boy and takes him to his mother. The picture of the mother and child filled his heart. They were at the village to get a valued treasure for his friend so he could marry his love. They were to go on a journey to bring back the chief's daughter who had left the village to earn the family treasure.

Otskal is a beautiful young widow. She has every intention to stay that way. She doesn't want to be controlled by a man again. She has a hard time keeping up with her two year old. He has no fear. She is thrilled when Caleb make a fence to keep the boy out of trouble. She doesn't speak too much English but the women with the men can translate. They ask her to go with them to convince her cousin to return to her father. She agrees to go.

A difficult journey through the mountains with trouble in every direction. God has a plan for these three; a good plan, a plan for a hope and a future. God has a plan for you too; a plan for peace and not for destruction. Give Him your heart and watch what He has in store for you even in this time of chaos.
Profile Image for Kendra Neal.
1,938 reviews56 followers
April 18, 2021
I really enjoy Author Misty M. Beller, I discovered her books about 5yrs
ago. Courage in the Mountain Wilderness is Book 4 in the Call of the
Rockies series. I have not read the first 3 in this series, but I can
say, I want to now.

The setting is 1831 in the Idaho Territory. Book 4 is the Caleb's story.
Caleb Jackson used to be a Minister in a small town, but he and the
congregation were not a good fit. He is now on a new mission with
his friends. They are out to find runaway daughter of the Chief of
Nez Perce tribe. Otskai is a widow raising a 2 yr old son. She has
been "sheltered" since she was 8 and never really had a life where
she can decide her goals in life. She is wanting new challenges
and decides to take the journey with her new friends, Caleb and his
crew, to find her runaway cousin. The journey is a struggle at times,
as her 2yr old son is very active. She is grateful that the crew is
adoring of her son and helps her with him. Caleb especially adores
her son and Otskai. Otskai is now at a pointwhere she must make a
choice due to danger. Will she choose Freedom or will she choose
LOVE? Will Caleb choose LOVE even though Otskai doesn't believe
in Jesus?

I can honestly say this book reads great as a Stand Alone. I
had no problem jumping into this book and understanding the
storyline and the theme as soon as I began reading. Caleb and
his friends really make a great team. Though the journey was
dangerous and difficult at times, they endured. I really LOVE
how Caleb connects to Otskai's 2yr old son. The relationship
between Caleb and Otskai is heartwarming. Misty M. Beller
has another GREAT book! I highly recommend this to anyone
who enjoys Christian Historical Fiction.
Profile Image for Erin.
2,264 reviews22 followers
April 22, 2021
I love this author. She writes wonderful historical fiction. This current series, which this book is book four, focuses on the Native Americans as a people and their knowledge. I have to say I love learning about how they did things and what their lives might have been like.

If this book looks good to you I highly suggest you read the entire series in order. While you probably could read this book by itself as a stand-alone book I think you’ll get more out of it if you read the whole series. Plus, that gives you a lot more to read and you get to visit the characters for longer.

I have found reading books by this author is like coming home. They’re all wonderful. They all give me characters that I can’t wait to come back to when I need a reading break and I hate to leave when the book is over.

Otskai is a wonderful character who finally has the freedom she has long craved only to realize maybe it isn’t all she thought it would be. Now she’s glad that she has company and friends to help her out in life. But can she and her friends keep her two-year-old safe on their journey?

This is a great read but again please do read the whole series in order!

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received through 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.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews