Maybe it was sad news in my life as I read it. Maybe I shouldn't get so involved in the character's lives when I read a book . Maybe it really was as sad as I thought it was. But whatever the maybe or combination of maybes, I found Hope's Highest Mountain by Misty M. Beller to be a sad book. Oh, but through all the sadness, there was the hope that things would get better and a happy ending would come. So I kept on reading as the characters kept on trying to complete their mission.  And in the end, I was so thankful I read this book. Would I recommend it for someone who was looking for a happy, funny book to cheer them up? No, but I would recommend it for someone who needs hope and encouragement to continue doing what is hard even through  grief and trials. Because that is what the characters in this book do, and even though it is a fictional story, one can learn a lot from the way the characters handle the hard times. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

I have enjoyed reading many other books written by this author, so I was very excited to read this latest novel, which begins a new series. Hope’s Highest Mountain did not disappoint!

The novel was packed full of adventure and danger as the main characters made their way through the perilous Montana Territory. They battled injuries and sickness, as well as nature.

I really liked the characters in Hope’s Highest Mountain. I was able to connect to all of them right from the start. They felt so real, and the struggles they faced were enormous, yet they bravely pushed through pain and trials in order to deliver much needed vaccines to a community in need.

The author did a wonderful job of weaving in messages of God’s love and provision through the story, even as one of the characters questioned why God allowed certain events to occur. And I definitely adored the romance that blossomed between Ingrid and Micah. It was so natural and a very healing connection for both of them, as well.

I loved this story from start to finish and eagerly look forward to the next book in the series.

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

Hope’s Highest Mountain written by author Misty Beller is a Christian Historical Romance and Book one in her new Hearts of Montana series. Set in the Montana Territory in 1866 this book caught my attention within the first few pages and kept it until the end.

Author Beller is a spellbinding storyteller. This book was well planned, researched, and very well written. Parts of the story were predictable but others had twists to keep readers on their toes.

This is the story of Ingrid, daughter of a doctor on his way out west to bring most needed smallpox vaccines. It is also the story of Micah, a formerly practicing doctor. Tragedy brings them together and keeps them needing each other.

The characters in this book were so likable. It seemed as if I had made some new friends. I particularly loved that it had a little boy and a small pet dog. They both brought something to the story. Through her writing the author brought them to life on the pages.

There is a strong Christian message throughout the book. For me that is a high priority in a Christian fiction book. I learned a few things, too, which is another priority on my list for what makes a book great. There are discussion questions to help with digging deeper into the faith message.

I highly recommend this page-turning novel. It is a very good book. I was entertained, inspired, and captivated. It gets a 4.5 out of 5 stars from me. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but these are my honest words.

Can they survive winter in the Montana mountains?

I have to confess to having a few mixed emotions about Hope's Highest Mountain. Misty M. Beller is a new to me author but when I saw that the story was set in my home state I was intrigued, especially after seeing that gorgeous cover on the paperback version.

So, I'm just going to get the “mixed emotions” part out of the way. Simply, there were some factual issues that bothered me. Will the average reader notice them? I highly doubt it. And I really did enjoy the story itself. Those things just bugged me a bit. And, yes, as I said I did enjoy this story. I read most of it in a single afternoon and couldn't seem to stop turning the next page. I HAD to know if Ingrid and Micah would make it through the Montana winter storms to deliver the smallpox vaccine in time....

I think one of the things I liked the best about Hope's Highest Mountain was that author Misty M. Beller kept the action going. The characters were never left alone in endless dialogue, which can get pretty boring, for long. Danger was always a snowflake or a misstep away.

If historical romance in a dangerously beautiful setting is your thing, if you enjoy stories of strong women of faith, if you like tales of adventure, if you just want to escape from the hum-drum of modern life you should check out Hope's Highest Mountain, the start to Misty M. Beller's exciting new Hearts Of Montana series...

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

This is the first book by Misty I have read, but I can tell you it won’t be my last.

First I absolutely loved the setting. The dangers and beauty of the mountains, yes please! That added so much adventure to the story.

Next I loved the characters. Ingrid is a strong, loving woman. In the mist of her heartache she is determined to go on.

Micah is a wonderful hero. I love that he has to face his greatest fear, the one thing he never wanted to deal with again but really has no choice.

I also enjoyed the secondary characters we get to meet. I wonder if they might be in the second book? A book I can’t wait to read!

A copy of this book was given to me through the Celebrate Lit Team. All opinions are my own.

"You're going to have to handle this one, too, Lord." But in truth, didn't God handle every step? Every breath. Every moment they lived.


I've always been a fan of frontier stories starting with the Little House on the Prairie books I read as a child. This is my first, Misty Beller book and I have now found a new favorite author, wow!
I loved so much about this book.
The daughter of a traveling doctor is left an orphan in life after her father's accidental death.
She traveled with him after her mother's death and they were the world to each other.
The tragedy that causes his death leaves her with a broken femur and unfortunately I can relate since my son broke his a week ago.
Ingrid is one strong woman, her faith is so strong despite all she has going against her.
Her mission is to get vaccines her father was set on delivering to a remote village that needs them so more deaths don't occur despite her painful injury.
Now Micah he has a backstory,sadness and bitter because of the loss of his wife and child he stops practicing medicine since he couldn't save them.
Micah is this handsome,work driven, outdoors mountain man but yet he's not afraid to let his tender side show around Ingrid.
This perilous journey was literally life or death depending upon the choices they made and the mistakes they may have made. The elements and wilderness were against them, Who was for they you may say? When Micah's spirits lagged with worry and responsibility Ingrid was the one faithfully strong. She had her faith they would survive this dangerous journey.
Micah's and Ingrid's romance was a slow burn and it didn't consume the story which I liked to see.
There was a romance but the story wasn't bogged down with it.
Micah's maturity in his faith walk was so encouraging. Ingrid's strong beliefs in her faith reawakens Micah's dormant faith and he starts he heal from his deep grief through Ingrid's ministrations.
I really need to read the REST of this author's books right now!
Published October 1st 2019 by Bethany House Publishers.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.

Hope’s Highest Mountain, by Misty M. Beller, is the first book in the Hearts of Montana series. With stirring adventure, breathtaking settings, and compelling characters, this gripping historical romance novel tells an unforgettable story of courage, loss, faith, and perseverance.
Set in the Montana Territory late in the autumn of 1866, this story is enriched by Ms. Beller’s vivid, sensory descriptions. Written with thoughtful detail, the setting is truly immersive and influential. From steep slopes, to treacherous paths, to hazardous weather conditions, the setting provides myriad opportunities for impactful scenes that captivate and enthrall.
Relevant and authentic, the characters in this novel are truly special. When faced with terrible danger and great hardship, they display immense bravery and determination. In their care and concern for others, they go far beyond expectations. Through peril, fear, and heartache, they persevere, their faith grows, and hope is kindled.
Page after page, Ms. Beller’s gift for storytelling is remarkably evident. Hope’s Highest Mountain is an utterly memorable, moving, and meaningful novel. Long will I treasure the hours that I spent savoring the story within its pages. I recommend it wholeheartedly to all readers.
*I was given a copy of this novel through NetGalley and CelebrateLit. A review was not required. The review I have written is voluntary and contains opinions that are entirely my own.

HOPE'S HIGHEST MOUNTAIN is a story of hardship and adversity among the mountains in Montana during winter as a group of characters travel to deliver vaccines to a small, rural town. As these characters face challenging circumstances, grief and pain, they also find hope, friendship and love, as well as faith in God to see them through. Recommended to Christian historical romance readers!

This story started intensely from the beginning when catastrophe strikes, then mellows as the characters get to know each other and as they work through survival. I loved the characters from the start, especially as they worked together to form a strong team. The darling boy and puppy also added some tenderness and fun in contrast to the rugged mountain man and elements. The story had plenty of other climatic moments as these characters traveled and braced themselves against the harsh winter. The romance was sweet and believable. The faith element was strong, but also woven through the story well.

In the end, was it what I wished for? This is an engaging story full of faith, hope and friendship, leading to a sweet romance. Definitely worth the read!

Content: Clean
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through Celebrate Lit, which did not require a positive review nor affect it in any way.

This is a new book by this author that starts a new series. This has been one of my favorite stories by this author. This one made me laugh and cry. I love the characters that they meet and join up with. There are many twists and turns before they get to where they are going. I am really looking forward to more books in this series about Montana. I received a copy of this book from Celebratelit for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

I am thoroughly convinced that author Beller is the Queen of writing rugged, against all odds wilderness and mountain adventures through any and all kinds of weather. If you have ever read one of her novels you know what I am talking about.

This one started with a doozy of an opening and I must say that the fortitude and courage of these people really is beyond what I can understand or would want to deal with myself. I know they are fictional, but like the pioneers and those that lived in the past with out all the electronics, electricity, cars, planes, central heating that we have today, how did they do it? My only conclusion is that we have become much too reliant on modern day conveniences while the past folks forged their way through mountains and desert and relied on their own ingenuity.

Ingrid Chastain is helping her father to deliver small pox vaccines to a small town before the population is wiped out. Before they make it to their destination the unthinkable happens. The before and the after of Ingrid's journey now looks very different. Now she is very reliant on a once doctor now turned mountain man to not only help her save the townspeople, but also to save her.

There was a lot of natural drama in this story line and I wondered how these two were going to get out of their circumstances when so much was stacked against them from the get go. But you'll have to read the story for yourself and go on this very dangerous and courageous journey with them.

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

Hope’s Highest Mountain is the first book in a new series (Hearts of Montana), and is an adventurous romance set in the mountains of the Montana Territory. The main characters, Ingrid and Micah, meet as the result of a devastating wagon accident and together travel to a small town to deliver smallpox vaccines. The setting was unique and refreshing (and described so clearly—one of the best parts of the book) in that the majority of the story takes place while traveling through the mountains, and outside interaction doesn’t occur until the novel is well under way. The perils of life in that situation (injury, weather, illness, etc.) are well-managed in Beller’s hands, as the characters grapple with maintaining hope and faith in God while facing life-altering tragedies. There is a heavy Christian message of surrendering to God and of cultivating an inner peace. Ingrid and Micah develop a sweet, believable romance as they travel, and are given a happily-ever-after as the novel comes to a close.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.

I have enjoyed reading a few of Misty Beller’s earlier books and I was super excited to be able to read this latest addition to her writing collection. I was not disappointed in the least! This story delivered all the drama and beautiful word imagery that I have grown to love from this author. I especially appreciate how she seamlessly weaves the gospel truth and a deep love of God into the characters in such an organic, natural way.

Vivid and realistic these characters fairly leaped off the page and into the room with me. While I’ve never broken a bone, I could easily empathize with Ingrid. Not only the loss of her mobility but the crushing loss of her father, her only parent, and her favorite companion. Thrust into a cold, unknown world, on a mission of mercy. Ingrid’s strength of character, her deep faith, and trust in God was a beautiful thing to behold. Micah too has had more than his fair share of heartbreak, he didn’t have a strong faith to fall back on, but he’s learning from Ingrid what it looks like to have strong faith. Even the delightful secondary characters bring charm and faith to this story.

Everything in this story blends so well. From start to finish this story is a delight to read! if you enjoy stories set on the western frontier in the 1800s, then I would encourage you to pick up a copy of this book to enjoy!

(I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

Whenever I pick up a book by this author I know I'm in for a harrowing wilderness adventure! I grew up camping and backpacking with my family so I savor the epic feeling of being in the mountains, the sense of majesty but also isolation. It helps that I'm not the one going through the trials the characters are though! In this story it seems like a matter of what else could go wrong, but having read several of her other books, there are many other dangers that they didn't face, so it didn't feel like overkill. A fine balance is struck between character development, historical details, inner conflict, external obstacles, sweet romance, and spiritual growth- all throughout the course of the book. The characters feel like real people that come to life and I imagine that they authentically represent the pioneers, explorers, and mountain men and women of the era. Grit, determination, and faith see Micah and Joanna through the heartbreak and grief they endure as they traverse the rugged land, sacrificing to bring relief to the settlers who are suffering.

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)

It’s another fantastic Misty Beller journey through the Montana Territory in 1866. With her skillful blending of all the senses through her written words, the author paints a beautifully haunting landscape of the untamed west and provides a plot filled with unseen dangers on a wintery mountain and complex, relatable characters who will draw you deep into their past, fears, and hopes. If you enjoy historical fiction/romance, you will definitely enjoy this book. I can’t wait for the next installment in this Hearts of Montana series.

Ingrid is the daughter of a physician researcher who is traveling with her father to deliver small pox vaccines to a remote fort when tragedy hits her hard. Her sweet determination, loyal and tender heart, and unshakable faith draw the reclusive and guilt-ridden Micah our of his shell to help her in completing her quest. Micah is laden down with past failures and his journey to receiving God’s grace and mercy is raw, heart-breaking, and quite tangible.

I received a copy of the book from Bethany House Publishing via Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.

Hope's Highest Mountain is the most adventurous romance I think I have ever read. I absolutely loved it! It begins with a devastating wagon accident high on the cliffs of the mountains in Montana.. Then the pair travel to take precious vials of medicine to a nearby town. Various adventures occur and the medicines finally reach their destination. It has an excellent ending, but it was definitely exciting to read!

Misty M. Beller's Hope's Highest Mountain is a well written and compelling story. The premise of the book is not one I normally select but the description and setting caught my eye. The author drew me in within the first few pages. I could feel Ingrid's wariness as she submitted to this strange man's care. He was so different than anyone she had ever met. Micah was a reluctant caregiver who overcame his own self doubts and made healing Ingrid's injuries his priority. Again and again he took up her challenges, first providing for her care and then forging a difficult path to deliver the vaccines. I felt the cold and shivered as Ingrid and Micah traveled under less than ideal circumstances through the mountains.

Throughout their journey Micah was tested. His courage and willingness to stretch his will to care for Ingrid was inspiring, considering his long held feelings of guilt over the deaths of his wife and daughter. Micah is my favorite character in this book. Ingrid's determination, while admirable, wasn't practical, considering her injuries and the terrible weather conditions for travel. However, Micah risked even more as he tirelessly planned and carried out their journey to the mining town. It was dangerous. She was severely injured and the two combined made the journey all the more treacherous. The inner turmoil for him was just as much a struggle. He escaped to this life of solitude for the very reasons she was tasking him with.

This book is for the reader who likes adventurous journeys with that little added touch of romance. I have not read and of Misty M Beller's books before, but this will no doubt not be the last. Many thanks to Bethany House for the opportunity to read this book for review. My opinions are my own.

MY THOUGHTS
I use the word heart wrenching a lot in my reviews but this book gripped my heart like a vise at times.
When bad things happen in our lives they can be turned for the betterment of our lives if only we listen to God and take the path He leads us on especially when a person or persons are put in said path without explanation or reasoning.
This is what happens to Ingrid and Micah with astonishing occurrences. They are blessed with several people along their treacherous journey to aid and to be aided on getting the much needed vaccines to the Fort so as to save many lives from the deadly disease Smallpox.
Author Misty M. Beller is a new author for me and I am not to sure how I managed to not have read any of her numerous books. I am looking forward to putting her on my to read author list.

Disclosure: I received a free digital copy of this book from Netgalley / Bethany House for an honest review. I was in no way compensated for this review.

A few years ago I was introduced to Misty Beller's work. I have made sure that I have read every one of her books since then!!! So with anticipation I started to read her newest addition. I was not disappointed.

Ingrid was determined to accomplish her mission. GOD was by her side and with his guidance she would complete the task.

Micah never got over his grief. He had doubts and fears that he couldn't shake off on his own.

GOD is always there for us. He is ready and eager to hear our prayers. He can strengthen us. He can comfort us in times of need. Ingrid and Micah's survival was based on their faith and belief that GOD was with them in their struggles. He would not desert them.

I couldn't put this book down. I loved it. I enjoyed getting to know Ingrid and Micah. I look forward to the next book in this series.

I received this free from Celebrate Lit to review.

In her trademark style of bringing the challenges and danger of surviving the Montana wilderness, Misty M. Beller delivers the first book in a brand new series. Hope’s Highest Mountain is a story that thrives in the themes of man vs nature, surviving after the loss of loved ones, falling in love, and trusting God through both the valleys and the mountaintops life brings.

The stakes are high, the pace is fast, and you’re left wanting just a little more time with the characters when the story is over. It’s a good thing this is a series debut!

Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

This is the perfect book to curl up with on a chilly autumn night. The cover alone drew me in, and it being the first installation in the new Hearts of Montana series sealed the deal. Misty Beller’s work has been on my to-read list for a while now, and with “Hope’s Highest Mountain”, she just catapulted to the top of my list of must-read authors. With a plethora of Christian historical fiction set during the nineteenth century, it can be difficult to find a unique niche, but this book accomplishes it beautifully. Setting the story in the Montana mountains in late 1866 opens a fascinating world that I have not encountered before. Add to this the fact that a major part of the plot revolves around medicine and a treacherous journey through the mountains, and this is a novel that you won’t be able to put down!

There are so many ways in which Christian fiction can enhance our understanding of Biblical truths and how to apply them to our own lives, and “Hope’s Highest Mountain” is a splendid example of this. The best stories are those that can transcend their own settings to reach and connect with readers. Although this novel may take place 150 years ago, the struggles of the human heart haven’t changed. Ingrid Chastain, traveling with her father to deliver life-saving vaccines to a small town in the desolate Montana Territory, and Micah Bradley, a former doctor who now lives on his own in the wilderness, both have their share of heartache. However, their approaches are different and boil down to seeing things through the eyes of faith versus through the eyes of fear. As the narrative progresses, it is enlightening to witness their interactions and their methodologies, and it makes the reader reflect on their own attitude toward life.

Action-packed without being melodramatic, “Hope’s Highest Mountain” is a quick read, but one full of encouragement. Each character brings their own gifts and talents to the table, discovering truths about God and about themselves in the process. I particularly loved how the author shows that even those who are bedbound or very young have a divinely-given purpose to fulfill. Romans 8:28 remained at the forefront of my mind throughout the story, as even tragic and seemingly senseless situations serve as stepping stones to something good. I found the inclusion of a travois interesting and enjoyed the ingenuity of the characters in coming up with solutions to problems. I also appreciated that Beller did not fall back on a deus-ex-machina but instead created realistic resolutions and outcomes, and often unexpected ones, at that. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in survival tales, Christian historical fiction, historical romance, mountain tales, and stories full of faith and hope.

I received a complimentary copy of this book through CelebrateLit and was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.