"Journey" is the second book in the Franchise series of the Ridgelands saga. The previous book, "Preparation," follows Belak Laboot as he organizes the technical team to expand Laboot City's iron production with a franchise to BuelaVisu, which lies across the continental divide ridgelands. The primary characters continue into "Journey," which follows the venture team across the ridgelands on road under construction, while beset by organized resistance.
Road construction and guerrilla attacks are the backdrop for growing pains in the relationships of all venture members, especially between Belak and his little sister, Louise. Triceratops power moves blasted rock and raises wagons and oxen up cliffs with block and tackle. Military ambushes are executed with bows and crossbows, swords and pikes. The caravan is assisted by a cave-dwelling mountain clan.
Once across the ridgelands, more trouble awaits. A power struggle within BuelaVisu sparks a riot, affecting the viability of the franchise venture. The Elder Council's representative is exposed as covering up details from Laboot City's council, which undermine the venture. Belak and his team work to overcome difficulties and advance the venture.