This Homeward Journey by Mistie M. Beller

I'm getting behind on my reviews again and since most of them are Christmas stories I'm going to be doing some extra post this week and next.
My review today is on the Historical Novel, This Homeward Journey. This is the fifth book in the Hearts of the Mountains Series. I love Mistie's books and this one didn't let me down; it's awesome. You will need to wrap up in a blanket when you read it. It's description of the frozen North will have you shivering and reaching for hot cocoa.
Rachel Bray is a widow with a twelve year old son. After the death of her abusive husband; a mean drunk and a gambler. She sells what is left after the creditor take what is owed and buys two horses and two guns and heads to Canada to find her brother. Her son although only twelve is almost the size of a man and works harder than all the men she's known. She is determined to go alone and through the mountains. She asks a clerk in Montana if he has a map for the mountain trail. He tries to talk her out of going that way but finally agrees to draw her one. When they are attacked by a bear she decides to join the man who came to talk to her. She watches them first to make sure all is safe.
Seth and Samuel Grant are on their way to Canada to join their brother and sister. They left California with a guide, Elias Benbow; they stop in Montana and talk to a clerk. He tells them that a woman is also going that route. Seth goes to talk to the woman but she refuses to go with them. It easy to tell she fears them. A couple of nights later they hear a couple of shots and Seth hopes the woman is okay. She joins them a couple of nights later for safety sake she says but she and her son will stay off to the side and form their own camp.
This is a journey across treacherous terrain, Indians, and vicious outlaws. God has a plan for these travelers, a good plan and not for evil. God has a plan for you two, a plan for a hope and a future. Give Him your heart and watch Him move in your life.