YA book about a girl who works in a mine and eventually leaves to go with an old wise leader

Such a long stretch. I was pretty sure this was YA. What I remember is that it is semi fantasy in that they are not in the normal world. The girl is sent by her father to travel with this old man who has a spiritual or religious purpose. He has to bring some fire to a temple or cathedral and she travels with him for a long time until he eventually dies and she has to bring this fire herself.

I vaguely remember the girl being on the cover and it looking very grey and cold.

Sounds like Winter of Fire to me. One edition had a black-and-white cover that reminds me of your description.

Definately Winter of Fire. Really interesting story, really interesting world.

That is 100% it.

You guys rock.

That book is already on the Frequently sought stories list on the group's home page. Maybe the link should be at the top of the page instead?!

>5 bookel: I didn't even know the list existed and I've been watching this group for years. Most people don't look at the Home Page of groups especially if they've been here awhile.

Didn't think so... :)
Though there was a huge discussion about frequently sought stories not long ago. Looks like they're still going to be asked about, but at least there's a resource there (and it links elsewhere to more books apparently seen often).