At a glance
Where Courage Calls
Christian Historical Fiction
Where Courage Calls
Book 1 of the Return to the Canadian West series
336 pages · First published 2014
Raised amid the comforts and privileges of a wealthy Eastern Canadian family, Beth Thatcher longs to prove herself when she accepts a teaching position in the rugged foothills of western Canada. But Coal Valley is still reeling from a devastating mining accident, and Beth arrives to discover a struggling community, children with little formal education, and no proper schoolhouse. Determined to make a difference, she gradually earns the trust of her students and forms unexpected friendships with townspeople whose hardships challenge everything she once took for granted. Meanwhile, two very different Mounties capture her attention—one a familiar friend from her past, the other a quiet officer whose kindness draws her toward an unfamiliar future. When a visit from her sister reminds Beth of the comfortable life she left behind, she must decide whether her calling lies in the world she knows or the community that has begun to claim her heart. Perfect for a quiet afternoon by the fire, this heartfelt historical novel invites readers to step back in time, strengthen their faith, and discover how courage, compassion, and unexpected love can transform a life.
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Jump to the pours ↓Nana’s Road Tea + Perfectly Polished Martini
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No surprises at chapter twelve
Content notes
A fatal mining accident in the recent past, leaving multiple families bereaved; grief following the deaths of husbands and fathers; poverty and economic hardship in a mining community; exploitation and pressure associated with a powerful mining company; a child becoming seriously ill and requiring hospitalization; a threatening encounter involving an illegal moonshiner; a miner living with a disability following an accident; emotional distress and difficult living conditions.
Alcohol-Free Pour
Nana’s Road Tea
Simple tea sweetened with honey and lemon offers the kind of everyday comfort Beth learns to appreciate as she builds friendships and finds purpose in a struggling frontier community.
What you'll need
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How to mix it
- Steep the tea and any herbs or whole spices in hot water according to the tea type, then strain. Stir in sweetener and juices. Serve hot.
- Garnish: Citrus peel, herb, or fruit from the recipe, if applicable.
- Glassware: Mug.
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Mug ↗Cocktail Pour · 21+
Perfectly Polished Martini
For adults of legal drinking age. Please drink responsibly.
A crisp, polished martini reflects Beth's refined upbringing before her new life in Coal Valley teaches her that true fulfillment cannot be measured by comfort or appearances.
What you'll need
- 2 1/2 oz gin
- 1/2 oz dry vermouth
- Ice
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How to mix it
- Stir gin and vermouth with ice until well chilled. Strain into a chilled martini glass.
- Garnish: Lemon twist.
- Glassware: Martini glass.
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