Love Comes Softly : Book Review

"Love Comes Softly" by Janette Oke is a heartwarming and inspiring story that takes place in the 19th century. It follows the journey of Marty Claridge, a young widow who finds herself alone and without money in the untamed frontier. Determined to survive, Marty makes the difficult decision to enter into a marriage of convenience with a widower named Clark Davis. As they navigate the challenges of their new life together, an unexpected love begins to blossom.

Oke expertly captures the hardships and struggles faced by Marty as she adjusts to her new role as a wife and stepmother. Through vivid descriptions, readers are transported to the rugged landscapes and pioneer communities of the time, adding depth and authenticity to the story. Marty's character is beautifully developed, showcasing her resilience, faith, and unwavering determination in the face of adversity.

The slow-burning romance between Marty and Clark is one of the book's highlights. Oke skillfully depicts the gradual growth of their relationship, capturing the subtleties of love that can emerge from unexpected beginnings. Their shared experiences as they build a home and care for their family bring warmth and intimacy to the narrative.

Faith is an overarching theme in the book, as Marty and Clark's journey is intertwined with their deepening relationship with God. The story explores the power of prayer, the importance of trusting in divine guidance, and the strength that comes from relying on one's faith. Oke's writing is gentle and uplifting, making this book a perfect choice for readers seeking a wholesome and spiritually enriching read.

In summary, "Love Comes Softly" is a touching and enchanting tale of love, resilience, and faith. Janette Oke's masterful storytelling and engaging characters make this book a delightful read for fans of historical fiction and inspirational literature. Dive into this captivating story and discover the power of love and faith in the face of adversity.

What are readers saying?

Janette Oke's "Love Comes Softly" has received a varied response from readers. The novel is set in the 19th century American West and follows Marty, a young woman who unexpectedly finds love after her husband dies.

A number of readers enjoyed the book and praised Oke for her ability to create a heartwarming and uplifting story. They appreciated the strong presence of faith and moral values throughout the book, as well as the wholesome and pure romance between the characters. Readers also found the simplicity of Oke's writing style to be a positive aspect, making it easy to read and follow along.

However, some reviewers found the story to be predictable and lacking in depth. They felt that the characters were one-dimensional and wished for more development and complexity. Additionally, certain parts of the book felt repetitive and the pacing was criticized for being slow.

Furthermore, a portion of readers found the religious aspects of the story to be overpowering. They felt that the book focused too heavily on preaching rather than allowing the story and characters to speak for themselves. This aspect of the book was divisive among readers, with some appreciating the strong Christian themes and others feeling alienated by them.

In summary, "Love Comes Softly" by Janette Oke appeals to readers who enjoy wholesome romance novels with a strong emphasis on faith. The heartwarming story and clean writing style were praised, but some readers found the plot predictable, the character development lacking, and the religious themes heavy-handed. If you're seeking a light and uplifting read with a focus on faith, this book may be a good choice.

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