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Love Comes Softly #1
Love Comes Softly
This is an alternate cover version of Love Comes Softly (Love Comes Softly #1) by Janette Oke with the ISBN number of 0871233428
Marty and Clem set out for the pioneer West full of hopes and dreams. They would stake a claim of their own on the new frontier, and build a home for themselves and their family.
But just after they'd arrived and Clem had chosen the perfect setting for their new home, an accident took his life...leaving Marty alone and pregnant. Then, on the day of his funeral, Clark Davis came along...and asked Marty to marry him!
Marty was infuriated -- but with no money, no shelter, and a baby on the way, what choice did she have? Besides, Clark said he only wanted her to be a mama to his baby girl, Missie. If Marty was still unhappy come spring, he would pay for her ticket back East.
Determined not to be a burden to Clark, and intending only to earn her keep. Marty threw herself into her new role of "Mama." But she had never been anyone's mama before, and she didn't even know how to keep a house! If only she could do right by this lonely man and his daughter just long enough to earn her train fare back home...
Now, Marty must learn wholeness and love through patience and faith
Marty and Clem set out for the pioneer West full of hopes and dreams. They would stake a claim of their own on the new frontier, and build a home for themselves and their family.
But just after they'd arrived and Clem had chosen the perfect setting for their new home, an accident took his life...leaving Marty alone and pregnant. Then, on the day of his funeral, Clark Davis came along...and asked Marty to marry him!
Marty was infuriated -- but with no money, no shelter, and a baby on the way, what choice did she have? Besides, Clark said he only wanted her to be a mama to his baby girl, Missie. If Marty was still unhappy come spring, he would pay for her ticket back East.
Determined not to be a burden to Clark, and intending only to earn her keep. Marty threw herself into her new role of "Mama." But she had never been anyone's mama before, and she didn't even know how to keep a house! If only she could do right by this lonely man and his daughter just long enough to earn her train fare back home...
Now, Marty must learn wholeness and love through patience and faith
188 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1979
1832 people are currently reading
17879 people want to read
About the author
Janette Oke
347 books3,449 followersJanette Oke is a Canadian author known for her inspirational fiction, often set in a pioneer era and focused on female protagonists. Her debut novel, Love Comes Softly (1979), became the foundation for a successful series, followed by over 75 other novels. The first book in her Canadian West series, When Calls the Heart (1983), inspired the popular television series of the same name.
Born in Champion, Alberta, to farmers Fred and Amy (née Ruggles) Steeves during the Great Depression, Oke went on to graduate from Mountain View Bible College in Didsbury, Alberta, where she met her future husband, Edward Oke, who later became the president of the college. The couple has four children, including a daughter who has collaborated with Janette on several books.
A committed Evangelical Christian, Oke has authored numerous works exploring themes of faith. She has received various accolades for her contributions to Christian fiction, including the 1992 President's Award from the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association and the 1999 CBA Life Impact Award.
Born in Champion, Alberta, to farmers Fred and Amy (née Ruggles) Steeves during the Great Depression, Oke went on to graduate from Mountain View Bible College in Didsbury, Alberta, where she met her future husband, Edward Oke, who later became the president of the college. The couple has four children, including a daughter who has collaborated with Janette on several books.
A committed Evangelical Christian, Oke has authored numerous works exploring themes of faith. She has received various accolades for her contributions to Christian fiction, including the 1992 President's Award from the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association and the 1999 CBA Life Impact Award.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,882 reviews
May 9, 2017
~4.5 stars~
This was the first book that I read by Janette Oke ^_^ I saw the movies for this series a long time ago and didn't remember too much about them...also I watch When Calls the Heart with my mom and sisters all the time :P But this was the first time I actually read something from her and I was surprised by how much I liked it! :D The things Marty would think/say always made me smile or crack up laughing xD It was such a relaxing book to read for me...if that makes sense lol I do plan on continuing with the series! I have also heard that people like the other books more so I'm anxious to start reading the second book! :)
This was the first book that I read by Janette Oke ^_^ I saw the movies for this series a long time ago and didn't remember too much about them...also I watch When Calls the Heart with my mom and sisters all the time :P But this was the first time I actually read something from her and I was surprised by how much I liked it! :D The things Marty would think/say always made me smile or crack up laughing xD It was such a relaxing book to read for me...if that makes sense lol I do plan on continuing with the series! I have also heard that people like the other books more so I'm anxious to start reading the second book! :)
September 18, 2017
Well, that ended up being better than I thought.
Overall, I really enjoyed the story. It was very sweet and well-paced. I can't say I'm a huge fan of Oke's writing style. (Please nobody hit me.) It's very stripped down, and doesn't really delve much into the characters emotions. Very prosey. I prefer something with a little more "life" to it. And the dialogue . . . I wanted to hit myself over the head with the book a few times because of it. Each character has a very thick backwoods accent, and whether that was realistic or not, it really drew me out of the story. I had to reread a bit of dialogue two or three times just to know what the character was saying. While I often times like the authentic feel accented dialogue gives a character, I think it was too much in this case. I couldn't focus on the story because of it. That was probably my main beef with this book.
The characters were very lovable and sweet, and the story was intriguing and interesting.
All in all, this was kind of a "meh" book for me. I may or may not read more in the series.
Overall, I really enjoyed the story. It was very sweet and well-paced. I can't say I'm a huge fan of Oke's writing style. (Please nobody hit me.) It's very stripped down, and doesn't really delve much into the characters emotions. Very prosey. I prefer something with a little more "life" to it. And the dialogue . . . I wanted to hit myself over the head with the book a few times because of it. Each character has a very thick backwoods accent, and whether that was realistic or not, it really drew me out of the story. I had to reread a bit of dialogue two or three times just to know what the character was saying. While I often times like the authentic feel accented dialogue gives a character, I think it was too much in this case. I couldn't focus on the story because of it. That was probably my main beef with this book.
The characters were very lovable and sweet, and the story was intriguing and interesting.
All in all, this was kind of a "meh" book for me. I may or may not read more in the series.
August 8, 2010
I love this entire series of books.
Janette Oke is such a wonderful author. The characters have flaws, but they always, always try to do the right thing. The stories are sweet, real, and always teach a valuable lesson.
If you're looking for a "feel good" Christian romance that doesn't contain any explicit sexual content, then I'd strongly encourage you to give these stories a try.
Janette Oke is such a wonderful author. The characters have flaws, but they always, always try to do the right thing. The stories are sweet, real, and always teach a valuable lesson.
If you're looking for a "feel good" Christian romance that doesn't contain any explicit sexual content, then I'd strongly encourage you to give these stories a try.
August 11, 2023
This is such a Christian classic. The writer in me wonders why I love it so much, when Janette Oke writes an older style that breaks so many modern rules. But I truly do love this book. It’s like eating comfort food. Revisiting it now was a delight. I love the Biblical themes that Oke weaves through her stories, the realistic characters, the true-to-life events without being melodramatic, and the old-fashioned feel.
I remembered the Gospel message in this book being one of my favorites. It still is. Marty’s spiritual journey is gradual and so tenderly crafted. Very realistic. I also appreciate that, while she questioned how life could be so hard yet God is Love, she didn’t become angry against God or bitter. Her search was one of an honest heart.
Yes, it is a romance, but it’s a romance between a married couple, which I find sweet. When I first read this book in my teens, the romance was a little too much for me (perhaps I should note that this was probably the first book I read with any romance to speak of). Now, it seems like very mild romance. Not until the end does Marty begin to have emotional feelings, and it is done in a very chaste manner. Unlike many modern books written, this one doesn’t at all go too far; other marriage-of-convenience books tend to mention being married “more than in name only” and that whole topic is pretty much avoided. Clark and Marty are two grieving souls who need help from each other. Really, I find it beautifully done.
In short, I still like this book. I had feared that, because of everything I learned in writing, it would destroy my enjoyment of the story. I was able to shrug them off and love the story for what it is.
I remembered the Gospel message in this book being one of my favorites. It still is. Marty’s spiritual journey is gradual and so tenderly crafted. Very realistic. I also appreciate that, while she questioned how life could be so hard yet God is Love, she didn’t become angry against God or bitter. Her search was one of an honest heart.
Yes, it is a romance, but it’s a romance between a married couple, which I find sweet. When I first read this book in my teens, the romance was a little too much for me (perhaps I should note that this was probably the first book I read with any romance to speak of). Now, it seems like very mild romance. Not until the end does Marty begin to have emotional feelings, and it is done in a very chaste manner. Unlike many modern books written, this one doesn’t at all go too far; other marriage-of-convenience books tend to mention being married “more than in name only” and that whole topic is pretty much avoided. Clark and Marty are two grieving souls who need help from each other. Really, I find it beautifully done.
In short, I still like this book. I had feared that, because of everything I learned in writing, it would destroy my enjoyment of the story. I was able to shrug them off and love the story for what it is.
August 14, 2017
This entire series is just GOLD. One of my favorites. <3
June 2, 2018
3 stars.
Not my favourite, but it wasn’t bad, just what I needed to pass the time.
Not my favourite, but it wasn’t bad, just what I needed to pass the time.
September 4, 2018
This series was first published in 1979, and I probably read it around that time.
Janette Oke introduced me to "Christian fiction" when there wasn't such a thing. I remembered it being a lovely story, but I wondered if I'd like it as much nearly 40 years later.
The answer is YES!
This story is beautiful written with strong characters and plenty of action.
And now I want to re-read the rest of the series.
Strongly recommend.
Janette Oke introduced me to "Christian fiction" when there wasn't such a thing. I remembered it being a lovely story, but I wondered if I'd like it as much nearly 40 years later.
The answer is YES!
This story is beautiful written with strong characters and plenty of action.
And now I want to re-read the rest of the series.
Strongly recommend.
May 29, 2024
"إن الحب أحياناً يأتي متسللاً إليك بالتدريج، لا صائحاً بكلمات صريحة أو ملوحاً بأعلام زاهية، حتى إنكِ لا تدرين أنه ينمو وينمو ويَقوى إلى أن .. لست أعلم. فجأة يستولي عليكِ بصورة مباغتة، فتفكرين: منذ متى وأنا أشعر بمثلِ هذا الشعور، ولماذا لم ألاحظ ذلك من قبل؟"
August 31, 2016
This is among my top favorite books! Why?
~ Pioneer courage. A young woman goes West with her new husband, suffers his death, and goes on. Not in the modern way of most books(Pregnant widow goes to town! Gets job with local blacksmith! Teaches town that women can shoe horses too! Oh, please...), but in the quiet way of the times. She simply does what she has to do for her own survival and that of her unborn child, and does it the best she can despite her grief.
~ Pioneer practicality. Marty and Clark accept their situation and do their best not to make each other or little Missie any more miserable than they have to be. Marty tries to feed and care for Clark to the best of her ability; Clark tries to provide for and protect Marty to the best of his. That's what God ordained marriage for, whether feelings of 'love' are there or not.
~ Pioneer faith. Clark lives his faith every single day. He doesn't get in Marty's face and demand whether she knows God or not - but he is Christ to her in every way, until the day when she accepts 'Clark's God'. He is the first she wants to know about the new state of her soul, expressed in a simple clasp of the hand and a look of wonder and joy. It is enough. No psychology, no emotional hoops to jump through. Praise God! How refreshing.
~ Pioneer decency. Marty will be living in his house, so Clark marries her, even though her position will be only the caregiver of his daughter. It is never even suggested that they would do otherwise. He doesn't try to express anything towards her until he knows she shares his feelings, and it is shown in the book in a way that does not violate purity. He's a complete gentleman, in every meaning of the word.
~ Pioneer determination. They don't give up. Not on life, or the West, or each other, or their faith. Good times or bad. Period. May God give us all the grace to hold on to what is most important as those who have gone before.
***Big warning: If at all possible, get a copy from the 1980's. Newer editions are revised and are not as good - the author made some changes that really messed with the feel of the story, possibly to make it more appealing to the movie crowd; but Marty is like a different person, and it ruins it completely!
*Little warning: It might make you want to clean house, learn a new recipe or two, and work harder to be the best wife/mother/daughter you can be. Not a bad thing at all, is it?
~ Pioneer courage. A young woman goes West with her new husband, suffers his death, and goes on. Not in the modern way of most books(Pregnant widow goes to town! Gets job with local blacksmith! Teaches town that women can shoe horses too! Oh, please...), but in the quiet way of the times. She simply does what she has to do for her own survival and that of her unborn child, and does it the best she can despite her grief.
~ Pioneer practicality. Marty and Clark accept their situation and do their best not to make each other or little Missie any more miserable than they have to be. Marty tries to feed and care for Clark to the best of her ability; Clark tries to provide for and protect Marty to the best of his. That's what God ordained marriage for, whether feelings of 'love' are there or not.
~ Pioneer faith. Clark lives his faith every single day. He doesn't get in Marty's face and demand whether she knows God or not - but he is Christ to her in every way, until the day when she accepts 'Clark's God'. He is the first she wants to know about the new state of her soul, expressed in a simple clasp of the hand and a look of wonder and joy. It is enough. No psychology, no emotional hoops to jump through. Praise God! How refreshing.
~ Pioneer decency. Marty will be living in his house, so Clark marries her, even though her position will be only the caregiver of his daughter. It is never even suggested that they would do otherwise. He doesn't try to express anything towards her until he knows she shares his feelings, and it is shown in the book in a way that does not violate purity. He's a complete gentleman, in every meaning of the word.
~ Pioneer determination. They don't give up. Not on life, or the West, or each other, or their faith. Good times or bad. Period. May God give us all the grace to hold on to what is most important as those who have gone before.
***Big warning: If at all possible, get a copy from the 1980's. Newer editions are revised and are not as good - the author made some changes that really messed with the feel of the story, possibly to make it more appealing to the movie crowd; but Marty is like a different person, and it ruins it completely!
*Little warning: It might make you want to clean house, learn a new recipe or two, and work harder to be the best wife/mother/daughter you can be. Not a bad thing at all, is it?
July 24, 2017
If you dislike stories that tell instead of show, don't read this.
If lots of "hick" accents annoy you, don't read this.
If you want sappy romance, don't read this.
If possible historical inaccuracies bother you, don't read this.
If you prefer books where you live with the characters instead of watching from the sidelines, don't read this.
Otherwise, enjoy the story.
I have never read any book by Janette Oke, but I had heard so much about them and how good they are, that when I found the kindle version for free, I got it. I can't say I was impressed. The story was fine, and I liked the ending. I liked the characters, but never felt like I would cry or laugh with them. Much of the story was told instead of shown, which didn't bother me, but I was a little surprised. The fact that the main character who had just arrived from the east, had the exact same "hick" accent as the westerners made me raise my eyebrows. Huh? Some historical things that didn't sound accurate to me at all.
Overall, I enjoyed the story okay, I might read it again, but it's not on my recommend or read again soon list.
If lots of "hick" accents annoy you, don't read this.
If you want sappy romance, don't read this.
If possible historical inaccuracies bother you, don't read this.
If you prefer books where you live with the characters instead of watching from the sidelines, don't read this.
Otherwise, enjoy the story.
I have never read any book by Janette Oke, but I had heard so much about them and how good they are, that when I found the kindle version for free, I got it. I can't say I was impressed. The story was fine, and I liked the ending. I liked the characters, but never felt like I would cry or laugh with them. Much of the story was told instead of shown, which didn't bother me, but I was a little surprised. The fact that the main character who had just arrived from the east, had the exact same "hick" accent as the westerners made me raise my eyebrows. Huh? Some historical things that didn't sound accurate to me at all.
Overall, I enjoyed the story okay, I might read it again, but it's not on my recommend or read again soon list.
April 5, 2025
I don't read much romance just because I know myself well enough to know it's not good for me to just read that and it can be hard for me to read something else after I start reading romance. But something I really appreciate about Janette Oke's books are that she doesn't show romance/love as cheap. I don't like how so much of the world today sees love as something that's honestly pretty temporary. I love this book and I love the fact that it's in a series. Janette Oke's books will always be favorites of mine, I love how she weaves really good values in to all of her books.
This book itself is just good. It's very clean (All of Oke's are), heartwarming, and such an easy read. I loved everything about the book except Marty and Clark's names. Like really, Clem and Emma were such pretty names and than you've got the stark Marty and Clark 😂 Absolutely no offense to any of the Martys and Clarks reading this, there's nothing wrong with the name, I just would've picked others. lol
This book itself is just good. It's very clean (All of Oke's are), heartwarming, and such an easy read. I loved everything about the book except Marty and Clark's names. Like really, Clem and Emma were such pretty names and than you've got the stark Marty and Clark 😂 Absolutely no offense to any of the Martys and Clarks reading this, there's nothing wrong with the name, I just would've picked others. lol
April 2, 2024
I love this.
July '23: Really great. And I need to stop rereading :)
March '24: I still marvel at Oke's wonderful storytelling ability and character development.
July '23: Really great. And I need to stop rereading :)
March '24: I still marvel at Oke's wonderful storytelling ability and character development.
March 10, 2022
Awwww guys this is such a wholesome book!
Having watched the movie so many times in my childhood (not necessarily by my choice XD), I was curious to see what the book was like.
I would agree that the book is different than the movie. For example, the characters talk in a more 'western way' if you will, and I wasn't expecting this because in the movie they don't, at least not that I remember. But that's alright.
Also, the 'skunk incident' is nowhere in this book, and Missy isn't as sassy or as old as she is in the movie.
But I don't mind that very much, in my opinion they still did a good job adapting it to film.
This book doesn't have a lot of exciting action, or passionate romance, or anything like that. What it does have is a lot of good hearted, kind people living out their lives on the western frontier. And that in itself, in a world where the moral fabric of society is crumbling, is very refreshing and soothing. It's like rich, slow music that's quieting to the soul in book form. And guys, I do enjoy a plot twisting, angsty, and powerfully written novel, I really do. But sometimes its good to have a nice, slow burn type of novel like this.
Having watched the movie so many times in my childhood (not necessarily by my choice XD), I was curious to see what the book was like.
I would agree that the book is different than the movie. For example, the characters talk in a more 'western way' if you will, and I wasn't expecting this because in the movie they don't, at least not that I remember. But that's alright.
Also, the 'skunk incident' is nowhere in this book, and Missy isn't as sassy or as old as she is in the movie.
But I don't mind that very much, in my opinion they still did a good job adapting it to film.
This book doesn't have a lot of exciting action, or passionate romance, or anything like that. What it does have is a lot of good hearted, kind people living out their lives on the western frontier. And that in itself, in a world where the moral fabric of society is crumbling, is very refreshing and soothing. It's like rich, slow music that's quieting to the soul in book form. And guys, I do enjoy a plot twisting, angsty, and powerfully written novel, I really do. But sometimes its good to have a nice, slow burn type of novel like this.
December 16, 2020
The emotions in this story—particularly those of grief and loss—were quite palpable from the beginning. This hooked me in right away and kept me intrigued throughout. The stakes were raised high in chapter one and continued to surprise me all the way through the story. I loved that Clark set a great example of what a God-fearing husband and father are supposed to be like, specifically in his teaching his family the Word of God and praying for them. This was an exquisite look at how God intended for the family unit to be directed, according to biblical instruction.
Content: replacement expletives
Content: replacement expletives
March 25, 2011
Reviewed for THC Reviews
I first read Love Comes Softly when I was only about 15 or 16 years old, and if memory serves, it was my very first romance novel. It seems I must have picked well, because not only is it an appropriate story for younger readers content-wise, but it has stood up to the test of time. I still enjoyed it every bit as much today as I did 25 years ago, perhaps even more because I'm seeing it through more mature eyes. Love Comes Softly is something of a Little House on the Prairie story aimed at a slightly older audience. Janette Oke captures that same spirit of the pioneers, depicting their day-to-day lives in a way that made me feel like I was there with them. It amazes me how hard-working and courageous these people were. Ms. Oke paints a picture of joys and sorrow, hardships and laughter against the backdrop of the frontier where close-knit communities of people existed who were willing to help each other in any way they could. She also really brings home the harsh reality for people in that time period, especially women, and how few choices they had. Marty would have been in unbelievably dire straits, and could possibly have even died, if Clark, a stranger to her, hadn't proposed a marriage of convenience. Under the circumstances, it couldn't have been an easy thing for him to do either, but he needed her almost as much as she needed him, even though she didn't want to admit it.
The vast majority (probably more than 95%) of the story is told from Marty's third-person point of view. Marty was a great female lead, but she was also a character who had to slowly grow on me. The author did a wonderful job of palpably expressing Marty's grief over the loss of her first husband. Then Clark came along immediately after her husband's funeral with his proposal. After some thought, Marty, being a practical woman, realized that she really had no other choice, but it didn't stop her from stubbornly resenting Clark for it. Although Marty never gave voice to her angry thoughts in Clark's presence, the reader is certainly privy to them. There were times when I felt like she was being ungrateful for this man taking her in and treating her with kindness and respect, and that she was rather selfish in not even considering the fact that he too might still be grieving the loss of his wife. In her defense though, I carefully considered what it would be like to be in her shoes, and decided that she was for the most part simply having a fairly normal human reaction to being placed in such an untenable position. During these times, I wish that a little more background information had been given about Marty so that I could better understand her reluctance to be beholden to a man, her being suspicious about Clark's kindness, and her inability to perform some of the simplest household tasks. I did admire her determination to uphold her end of the bargain (one way in which her stubbornness served her well), her willingness to learn, and that she always tried her best even when it didn't turn out right. Marty's initial ineptness at cooking and doing household chores could be pretty funny at times. As I continued to read, I realized that the story was really all about Marty's journey back to wholeness and being able to open her heart to love again, and I really enjoyed watching her learn, and change, and most of all grow as a person.
There is a part of me that wishes we could have had a little more insight from Clark's point of view. There were only a handful of times in the entire book where we get to see things from his perspective, and they only last for a couple of paragraphs. However, I think that the author meant for the reader to experience Clark through his actions, and the message that actions speak louder than words came across very clearly through his character. Clark was an incredibly kind and gentle man. He only asked for a mutually beneficial marriage in name only, and even offered Marty an out if she chose to take it. He gave her the space she needed to grieve the loss of her husband. He was never mean or demanding like she expected, but instead treated her with respect and patience when she burned dinner or made a mess of her attempts at cleaning. He even ate pancakes every meal for several days without complaint, and helped with some of the cooking and other chores until Marty got her feet under her. Clark was always caring, thoughtful and understanding, especially after he found out that Marty was expecting. He was an amazing father to Missie, and later, to Marty's child as well. Even Marty realized that Clark always did what was right and best for others, even if it hurt him to do it. I think that the best thing about Clark though was how he quietly “lived” his faith in God through example. He never, ever used it to beat Marty over the head. He just accepted her as she was. It would have been impossible not to love a romantic hero like Clark, and slowly but surely his love (as well as God's love) stole into Marty's heart softly and unexpectedly.
There were a couple of other elements in Love Comes Softly that really drew me in. First was the marriage of convenience which I haven't really read much of in romance before, and I guess had never really thought much about either. After reading this book, I am quite curious to try more romances with this theme. The other was simply the underlying Christian message of the story which I found to be utterly inspiring. I've been very reluctant to read inspirational romances lately because of the preachiness I often find in them, but Love Comes Softly was a truly uplifting novel that brought me back to some simple spiritual truths that had somehow gotten lost in the busy hustle and bustle of everyday life. For that reason alone, I am so grateful that I decided to re-read this book. In fact, the one and only small problem I had with the story was the author's use of backwoodsy vernacular that seemed a little extreme even for the frontier. In my opinion, it made the characters seem somewhat unintelligent which they clearly weren't. Overall though, it was a minor issue, and otherwise, I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of the book. Love Comes Softly is the first volume in the series of the same name. I can't recall how many of the books I read as a teen, but since the latter three were published several years later, I know that I never made it past #5. This all makes me very eager to revisit/discover the rest of the series soon.
I first read Love Comes Softly when I was only about 15 or 16 years old, and if memory serves, it was my very first romance novel. It seems I must have picked well, because not only is it an appropriate story for younger readers content-wise, but it has stood up to the test of time. I still enjoyed it every bit as much today as I did 25 years ago, perhaps even more because I'm seeing it through more mature eyes. Love Comes Softly is something of a Little House on the Prairie story aimed at a slightly older audience. Janette Oke captures that same spirit of the pioneers, depicting their day-to-day lives in a way that made me feel like I was there with them. It amazes me how hard-working and courageous these people were. Ms. Oke paints a picture of joys and sorrow, hardships and laughter against the backdrop of the frontier where close-knit communities of people existed who were willing to help each other in any way they could. She also really brings home the harsh reality for people in that time period, especially women, and how few choices they had. Marty would have been in unbelievably dire straits, and could possibly have even died, if Clark, a stranger to her, hadn't proposed a marriage of convenience. Under the circumstances, it couldn't have been an easy thing for him to do either, but he needed her almost as much as she needed him, even though she didn't want to admit it.
The vast majority (probably more than 95%) of the story is told from Marty's third-person point of view. Marty was a great female lead, but she was also a character who had to slowly grow on me. The author did a wonderful job of palpably expressing Marty's grief over the loss of her first husband. Then Clark came along immediately after her husband's funeral with his proposal. After some thought, Marty, being a practical woman, realized that she really had no other choice, but it didn't stop her from stubbornly resenting Clark for it. Although Marty never gave voice to her angry thoughts in Clark's presence, the reader is certainly privy to them. There were times when I felt like she was being ungrateful for this man taking her in and treating her with kindness and respect, and that she was rather selfish in not even considering the fact that he too might still be grieving the loss of his wife. In her defense though, I carefully considered what it would be like to be in her shoes, and decided that she was for the most part simply having a fairly normal human reaction to being placed in such an untenable position. During these times, I wish that a little more background information had been given about Marty so that I could better understand her reluctance to be beholden to a man, her being suspicious about Clark's kindness, and her inability to perform some of the simplest household tasks. I did admire her determination to uphold her end of the bargain (one way in which her stubbornness served her well), her willingness to learn, and that she always tried her best even when it didn't turn out right. Marty's initial ineptness at cooking and doing household chores could be pretty funny at times. As I continued to read, I realized that the story was really all about Marty's journey back to wholeness and being able to open her heart to love again, and I really enjoyed watching her learn, and change, and most of all grow as a person.
There is a part of me that wishes we could have had a little more insight from Clark's point of view. There were only a handful of times in the entire book where we get to see things from his perspective, and they only last for a couple of paragraphs. However, I think that the author meant for the reader to experience Clark through his actions, and the message that actions speak louder than words came across very clearly through his character. Clark was an incredibly kind and gentle man. He only asked for a mutually beneficial marriage in name only, and even offered Marty an out if she chose to take it. He gave her the space she needed to grieve the loss of her husband. He was never mean or demanding like she expected, but instead treated her with respect and patience when she burned dinner or made a mess of her attempts at cleaning. He even ate pancakes every meal for several days without complaint, and helped with some of the cooking and other chores until Marty got her feet under her. Clark was always caring, thoughtful and understanding, especially after he found out that Marty was expecting. He was an amazing father to Missie, and later, to Marty's child as well. Even Marty realized that Clark always did what was right and best for others, even if it hurt him to do it. I think that the best thing about Clark though was how he quietly “lived” his faith in God through example. He never, ever used it to beat Marty over the head. He just accepted her as she was. It would have been impossible not to love a romantic hero like Clark, and slowly but surely his love (as well as God's love) stole into Marty's heart softly and unexpectedly.
There were a couple of other elements in Love Comes Softly that really drew me in. First was the marriage of convenience which I haven't really read much of in romance before, and I guess had never really thought much about either. After reading this book, I am quite curious to try more romances with this theme. The other was simply the underlying Christian message of the story which I found to be utterly inspiring. I've been very reluctant to read inspirational romances lately because of the preachiness I often find in them, but Love Comes Softly was a truly uplifting novel that brought me back to some simple spiritual truths that had somehow gotten lost in the busy hustle and bustle of everyday life. For that reason alone, I am so grateful that I decided to re-read this book. In fact, the one and only small problem I had with the story was the author's use of backwoodsy vernacular that seemed a little extreme even for the frontier. In my opinion, it made the characters seem somewhat unintelligent which they clearly weren't. Overall though, it was a minor issue, and otherwise, I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of the book. Love Comes Softly is the first volume in the series of the same name. I can't recall how many of the books I read as a teen, but since the latter three were published several years later, I know that I never made it past #5. This all makes me very eager to revisit/discover the rest of the series soon.
April 27, 2025
I loved the movie growing up, and wanted to read the book that inspired it. It did not disappoint, painful yet beautiful.
I still love the movie more, they're surprisingly different stories, and I like that one better. But I loved the book. If you love the movies, I think you will too.
I still love the movie more, they're surprisingly different stories, and I like that one better. But I loved the book. If you love the movies, I think you will too.
December 16, 2011
This book was picked up, exactly because it looked really old, sitting on the shelf in the library at the school that I work at. I was bored, and I always do strange things every time it happened.
I was never a fan of romance story, especially one that is so sappy my teeth actually hurt. However, this romance is different. The book is thinner than books I usually read, but it captures me just the same. A friend told me once, that books usually cover two or more of the four main features: Characters, Plot, Setting, and Language. Since English is not my first language, I can't even categorize the type of English that was used in the book. I do know that it was a struggle to understand the conversation parts. Despite that, however, the book describe the Setting excellently, that I was able to picture the places, and the transition of the seasons in the book. It's quite impressive, considering I am living in a tropical country which doesn't experience all 4 seasons. Then, the plot is also developed well, with all the correct development. Nothing seemed rush, all went by just at the correct pace. Then, there's the characters. There wasn't a colorful physical description, but you get to know the characters emotionally. The best kind of knowing characters. It's truly captivating.
What I admire the most, however, is the Christian theme that is carefully woven throughout the book. It came by really naturally, and we get to experience the struggle Marty (the main character) had with the God that was being introduced to her at the time when she is most miserable. The idea that we can indeed find God at any circumstance, and even more so, I believe, when we are hitting the lowest point of our lives - which is often the point when every body seems to desert us - is truly comforting. Oke also sent the message that God's providence will never fail us, if only we allow ourselves not to be blinded by our so often wrong focus, and she sent it in a familiar and realistic way. God's love is so fierce, but it can come to us softly.
I was never a fan of romance story, especially one that is so sappy my teeth actually hurt. However, this romance is different. The book is thinner than books I usually read, but it captures me just the same. A friend told me once, that books usually cover two or more of the four main features: Characters, Plot, Setting, and Language. Since English is not my first language, I can't even categorize the type of English that was used in the book. I do know that it was a struggle to understand the conversation parts. Despite that, however, the book describe the Setting excellently, that I was able to picture the places, and the transition of the seasons in the book. It's quite impressive, considering I am living in a tropical country which doesn't experience all 4 seasons. Then, the plot is also developed well, with all the correct development. Nothing seemed rush, all went by just at the correct pace. Then, there's the characters. There wasn't a colorful physical description, but you get to know the characters emotionally. The best kind of knowing characters. It's truly captivating.
What I admire the most, however, is the Christian theme that is carefully woven throughout the book. It came by really naturally, and we get to experience the struggle Marty (the main character) had with the God that was being introduced to her at the time when she is most miserable. The idea that we can indeed find God at any circumstance, and even more so, I believe, when we are hitting the lowest point of our lives - which is often the point when every body seems to desert us - is truly comforting. Oke also sent the message that God's providence will never fail us, if only we allow ourselves not to be blinded by our so often wrong focus, and she sent it in a familiar and realistic way. God's love is so fierce, but it can come to us softly.
December 20, 2023
Wow, what a delightful read! Janette Oke can always be counted on to deliver a beautiful faith-filled story. A true classic in Christian fiction!
After reading (and really loving) the series man years back, I came to reread it and can I say, it was just as good, if not better than the first times I read it! It was so beautiful to see God working through and in the lives of Marty and Clark. Their love wasn't a fireworks kind of love, but a slow and steadily burning love and the kind of love that lasts a lifetime. It had me sighing with contentment and growing wistful as the book came to an end. I literally sat down and finished the whole novel in one go. I just couldn't put it down!
The plot was nice and solid. The characters were all amazing and I loved all of them, including some of the secondary characters: especially Ma Graham and Missie. I can't wait to go on to the next books in the series! Overall, I really enjoyed it and I highly recommend it!!
RATING: 5 points
1-5 SCALE:
1: I couldn’t even finish it
2: I hope I didn’t pay for this / disappointing
3: I didn’t hate it, but I didn't like it either
3.5: On the line between good and ok
4: Solid story / worth reading
4.5: So very close to perfection! / must read
5: I could not put it down and I’m still thinking about it!
After reading (and really loving) the series man years back, I came to reread it and can I say, it was just as good, if not better than the first times I read it! It was so beautiful to see God working through and in the lives of Marty and Clark. Their love wasn't a fireworks kind of love, but a slow and steadily burning love and the kind of love that lasts a lifetime. It had me sighing with contentment and growing wistful as the book came to an end. I literally sat down and finished the whole novel in one go. I just couldn't put it down!
The plot was nice and solid. The characters were all amazing and I loved all of them, including some of the secondary characters: especially Ma Graham and Missie. I can't wait to go on to the next books in the series! Overall, I really enjoyed it and I highly recommend it!!
RATING: 5 points
1-5 SCALE:
1: I couldn’t even finish it
2: I hope I didn’t pay for this / disappointing
3: I didn’t hate it, but I didn't like it either
3.5: On the line between good and ok
4: Solid story / worth reading
4.5: So very close to perfection! / must read
5: I could not put it down and I’m still thinking about it!
August 30, 2017
This was one of the sweetest, most endearing little books I've ever read. It was gripping, sweet, and realistic- all in one incredible package. Loved it.
December 28, 2024
This series is so nostalgic for me!
Growing up, the movies were for girls’ nights, with my mum or my cousin or my aunts and nana. As a teen, I read the books, and the simple life & strong faith of these frontier families where neighbours relied on each other was every bit as enchanting then as it is now.
I heard the argument that these books were setting girls up for failure due to the unrealistic romance standards. But honestly, that stance misses the whole point of the book. Sure there’s romance—and it’s as squeaky clean as you’ll find short of no romance—but it’s about grief and community, finding Jesus and an everyday faith, weathering the hard times and finding joy in the simple things.
And when “that’s a good cup of coffee” in its own way means “I love you.”
Growing up, the movies were for girls’ nights, with my mum or my cousin or my aunts and nana. As a teen, I read the books, and the simple life & strong faith of these frontier families where neighbours relied on each other was every bit as enchanting then as it is now.
I heard the argument that these books were setting girls up for failure due to the unrealistic romance standards. But honestly, that stance misses the whole point of the book. Sure there’s romance—and it’s as squeaky clean as you’ll find short of no romance—but it’s about grief and community, finding Jesus and an everyday faith, weathering the hard times and finding joy in the simple things.
And when “that’s a good cup of coffee” in its own way means “I love you.”
October 31, 2023
4.5 stars & 5/10 hearts. I wasn’t sure if I’d like this story at first. The dialogue/language got on my nerves. But I quickly warmed up to the story. Missy is pretty sweet, and I found Marty relatable, especially her cooking struggles! Clark was an amazing man, too. Ma Graham was lovely. The story was exciting and interesting and sweet and well-written—very clean & non-detailed romance. And I loved the Christian content. I’m eager to start the second book!
A Favourite Quote: “‘Seems the storm nearly won,’ she acknowledged slowly, ‘but it can’t win unless ya let it, can it?’”
A Favourite Beautiful Quote: “Marty looked out toward the west. Far beyond the rolling hills the blue mountains rose in majesty. Was it from here that Clark was seeking the help of his God?”
A Favourite Humorous Quote: “She stood by one of the trees, not sure if it was an apple tree or not, but should it be, she implored it to please, please have some apples next year. She then remembered that even if it did, by then she would have left for the East. She didn’t bother to inform the apple tree of this, for fear that it would lose heart and not bear after all.”
A Favourite Quote: “‘Seems the storm nearly won,’ she acknowledged slowly, ‘but it can’t win unless ya let it, can it?’”
A Favourite Beautiful Quote: “Marty looked out toward the west. Far beyond the rolling hills the blue mountains rose in majesty. Was it from here that Clark was seeking the help of his God?”
A Favourite Humorous Quote: “She stood by one of the trees, not sure if it was an apple tree or not, but should it be, she implored it to please, please have some apples next year. She then remembered that even if it did, by then she would have left for the East. She didn’t bother to inform the apple tree of this, for fear that it would lose heart and not bear after all.”
May 18, 2019
الرواية مميزة بكل معنى الكلمة. تبين الرواية كيف ياتي الحب على الرغم الظروف الصعبة والمحزنة؟ كيف تجد بذرة الحب جذورها في قلب الأراضي المقفرة بسبب الالم والماضي والاحساس بالضياع. كيف يتواجد الحب علي خلاف ما اعتدنا عليه من القصص الرومانسية؟ وكيف يكون الحب اختياراً عندما لا تتواجد اختيارات؟
December 8, 2009
Sial...
Ok, belajar dr cerita HQ, chicklite, teenlite, dan sebangsanya, saia tidak terlalu berharap pada novel-novel romance. Bahkan, kalau disodorkan dua buah buku, satu komik Nubè, satu novel romance, tanpa pikir panjang saya akan memilih komik Nubè. Jadi, kalaupun memang ada novel romance di to-read list saia, paling saia cuma baca sekilas, skimming, dan baca beberapa helai halaman terakhir. Begitu juga saat akan membaca buku ini.
Yeah, niat awalnya gituh…
- Hei, buku Love Comes Softly yang dipinjem, kapan mu dibalikin? Ada yang mu minjem neh!
+ *omigosh, lupa... padahal dah nongkrong 4 bulanan lebih di rak* Hehe... maab, lupa dibaca, habis daftar bacaan dah membengkak jadi ratusan gituh, jd ketumpuk ma buku lain. Maab ya. Seminggu lagi deh kasih tengat, nanggung neh, masa dah minjem tapi gak sempet dibaca? *ngeles, mang sapah suruh ngasih pinjem buku romantis-romantisan coba?*
- iya deh, seminggu yah, jangan lebih *kebayang ekspresi keki dan sebal, seperti kucing yang kesiram air*
+ iyeh bawel, btw, buku ini bagus gak? Males ah baca buku romance mah. Bahasa Inggris pula *pasang tampang ngeyel, bukan mau dibaca, tapi biar gak balikin buku, males soalnya, jauh*
- Bagus banget tau! Beda lah ma HQ atau novel romantis picisan sejenis. Best seller bgt tau buku ini! Dah jutaan eksempelar laris manis. Lagian settingnya juga klasik. Pokoknya manteb. Coba dulu ajah baca. Kalau dah kelar, cepat yah balikin *promosi sehebat apapun, gak akan banyak ngaruh tuh!*
+ *sambil ngedumel* iye-iye Bu. Ntar dicoba baca. Kalo bukunya jelek, awas yah! Harus tanggung jawab! Apalagi mirip2 HQ, alamat mau nuntut ganti rugi *gakmaurugidotcom*
- makanya, baca dulu. Kalo gak suka kan tinggal gak usah diterusin
Emang niatnya awalnya gak akan dibaca. Tapi, dua hari yang lalu, mulai bertebaran sms teror yang isinya menitahkan agar segera mengembalikan buku ini. Daripada rewel, wik-en ini dijanjiin mu dibalikin. Malemnya, iseng gak ada kerjaan *kebetulan seminggu ini gak ada kuliah, semua dosen jurusan lagi ikut seminar di jakarta selama seminggu, thanks*, daripada rugi dah minjem tapi gak dibaca, ya mulailah membuka buku ini *setelah menimang-nimang bukunya dan mikir beberapa menit, mending dibaca atau langsung dibalikin*
dicoba dulu lah, kalo gak suka, hentikan bacanya. selesai.
Buka halaman awal dah gak berselera gituh... kisahnya dibuka dg sejoli yang sedang bemesraan. Pfuihh... nyaris mau dihentikan pembacaannya, namun, pas dah sekitar 10-an halaman... ooppss
Sial, saia baca buku ini sampai tamat... dan suka :P
+ bukunya dah kelar neh. Kapan dibalikin? Sabtu rencananya mu maen ke Lembang neh ma temen. Minggu mu full hibernasi, hehe.. jd kapan?
- Syukurlah, Jumat ajah gimana? Kan saya ga ada kuliah, kamu juga kan? Ketemuan di Gramed jam 3.00, gak pake telat
+ beuh, mang sapa coba yang suka telat! Saia bukan hanya tipe orang on-time, tapi juga in-time! *sapa coba yang dulu dateng lebih dr 45 menit telat tanpa konfirm, hmmm, kayaknya dia harus direfresh ingatannya*
- sekalian juga bawa dua buku yang mau saya pinjem yah, yang Dostoyevsky, The Brothers Karamazov ma The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time. eh, gimana cerita bukunya? Baguskan? Jd gak saya gak perlu ngasih ganti rugi. *sial nanya juga, padahal ini pertanyaan yang paling dihindari. Maklum, sempat mengikrarkan diri sebagai anti novel HQ :D, apa jadinya kalau dia tau saya suka buku ini? Bisa jadi bahan bulan-bulanan :P*
+ *pasang nada sedatar mungkin* yah, lumayan lah, apalagi settingan waktu dan tempatnya mirip banget dengan salah satu novel fav saya, yg serial Little House on the Praire-nya Wilders terus rada-rada mirip cerita si Anne Green Gables juga... *berdoa dalam hati, semoga tak tampak sebagai pujian*
- tuh kan, apa kata saya? Bagus kan bukunya!
+ *dasar, ini jebakan!* saya bilang lumayan, bukan bagus! *pura-pura kesal dan bete*
- yeee... ya udahlah, padahal menurut saya, bukunya sangat bagus. Mengharukan banget. Apalagi kalau kamu dah baca kelanjutannya *kaget, dooohh... jebakan lagi!!!*
+ ada kelanjutannya toh? *berusaha sebaik mungkin biar tidak terdengar terlalu antusias*
- ada, ini kan novel berseri, mau pinjem lanjutannya? *arghhh... *
+ sok ajah kalo ada mah... *siaalll!!! Sambaran saya terlalu cepat beberapa detik, jadi keliatan deh kalo saia suka dan tertarik sama buku ini. Tapi sebelum dia menyambar dengan cercaan dan ledekan... hehe... kaw harus bisa berpikir lebih cepat agar bisa meledek saya!*
+ Eh yang si Karamazov jd pinjem kan? Males neh kalo dah bawa ternyata gak jadi pinjem... *pengalihan topik pembicaraan selalu menjadi ramuan manjur dalam menghindari topik yang tak diinginkan, ayo... apa kata dunia kalau dia tahu saya suka buku ini? Hehe*
- serial Love Comes Softly ada 8 seri dan... *dari nadanya terbayang dia tersenyum puas dengan ekspresi seperti kucing yang melihat mangsa gemuk dan gurih, tikus yang terperosok di mangkuk susu*
+ *beberapa mikrodetik sebelum bencana tiba* ... jadi kan minjemnya? Yang si Karamazov keren banget tau! Beda lah dengan karya Dostoyevsky yang lain. Ada pembunuhannya juga. Bla-bla-bla-..,
Pfiuhh.... satu hari terselematkan... entah kalau entar pas peminjaman buku kedua :P
Konon, cinta pada pandangan pertama bukanlah cinta sesungguhnya, tapi nafsu, tak lebih dari sekedar rasa antusiasme... cinta yang sejati akan datang kemudian seiring waktu. Cinta akan datang seiring eratnya kebersamaan... Cinta, akan datang secara manis dan diam-diam, bersemayam di lubuk hati..halah... :P
Sometimes love isn't fireworks. Sometimes, love just comes softly…
PS : niatnya cuma mu ngasih 3 bintang saja, tp karena settingan ceritanya lucu, nambah setengah bintang. 3.5. tapi coz ga ada rate setengah, terpaksa didongkrak jd 4 :P
Ok, belajar dr cerita HQ, chicklite, teenlite, dan sebangsanya, saia tidak terlalu berharap pada novel-novel romance. Bahkan, kalau disodorkan dua buah buku, satu komik Nubè, satu novel romance, tanpa pikir panjang saya akan memilih komik Nubè. Jadi, kalaupun memang ada novel romance di to-read list saia, paling saia cuma baca sekilas, skimming, dan baca beberapa helai halaman terakhir. Begitu juga saat akan membaca buku ini.
Yeah, niat awalnya gituh…
- Hei, buku Love Comes Softly yang dipinjem, kapan mu dibalikin? Ada yang mu minjem neh!
+ *omigosh, lupa... padahal dah nongkrong 4 bulanan lebih di rak* Hehe... maab, lupa dibaca, habis daftar bacaan dah membengkak jadi ratusan gituh, jd ketumpuk ma buku lain. Maab ya. Seminggu lagi deh kasih tengat, nanggung neh, masa dah minjem tapi gak sempet dibaca? *ngeles, mang sapah suruh ngasih pinjem buku romantis-romantisan coba?*
- iya deh, seminggu yah, jangan lebih *kebayang ekspresi keki dan sebal, seperti kucing yang kesiram air*
+ iyeh bawel, btw, buku ini bagus gak? Males ah baca buku romance mah. Bahasa Inggris pula *pasang tampang ngeyel, bukan mau dibaca, tapi biar gak balikin buku, males soalnya, jauh*
- Bagus banget tau! Beda lah ma HQ atau novel romantis picisan sejenis. Best seller bgt tau buku ini! Dah jutaan eksempelar laris manis. Lagian settingnya juga klasik. Pokoknya manteb. Coba dulu ajah baca. Kalau dah kelar, cepat yah balikin *promosi sehebat apapun, gak akan banyak ngaruh tuh!*
+ *sambil ngedumel* iye-iye Bu. Ntar dicoba baca. Kalo bukunya jelek, awas yah! Harus tanggung jawab! Apalagi mirip2 HQ, alamat mau nuntut ganti rugi *gakmaurugidotcom*
- makanya, baca dulu. Kalo gak suka kan tinggal gak usah diterusin
Emang niatnya awalnya gak akan dibaca. Tapi, dua hari yang lalu, mulai bertebaran sms teror yang isinya menitahkan agar segera mengembalikan buku ini. Daripada rewel, wik-en ini dijanjiin mu dibalikin. Malemnya, iseng gak ada kerjaan *kebetulan seminggu ini gak ada kuliah, semua dosen jurusan lagi ikut seminar di jakarta selama seminggu, thanks*, daripada rugi dah minjem tapi gak dibaca, ya mulailah membuka buku ini *setelah menimang-nimang bukunya dan mikir beberapa menit, mending dibaca atau langsung dibalikin*
dicoba dulu lah, kalo gak suka, hentikan bacanya. selesai.
Buka halaman awal dah gak berselera gituh... kisahnya dibuka dg sejoli yang sedang bemesraan. Pfuihh... nyaris mau dihentikan pembacaannya, namun, pas dah sekitar 10-an halaman... ooppss
Sial, saia baca buku ini sampai tamat... dan suka :P
+ bukunya dah kelar neh. Kapan dibalikin? Sabtu rencananya mu maen ke Lembang neh ma temen. Minggu mu full hibernasi, hehe.. jd kapan?
- Syukurlah, Jumat ajah gimana? Kan saya ga ada kuliah, kamu juga kan? Ketemuan di Gramed jam 3.00, gak pake telat
+ beuh, mang sapa coba yang suka telat! Saia bukan hanya tipe orang on-time, tapi juga in-time! *sapa coba yang dulu dateng lebih dr 45 menit telat tanpa konfirm, hmmm, kayaknya dia harus direfresh ingatannya*
- sekalian juga bawa dua buku yang mau saya pinjem yah, yang Dostoyevsky, The Brothers Karamazov ma The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time. eh, gimana cerita bukunya? Baguskan? Jd gak saya gak perlu ngasih ganti rugi. *sial nanya juga, padahal ini pertanyaan yang paling dihindari. Maklum, sempat mengikrarkan diri sebagai anti novel HQ :D, apa jadinya kalau dia tau saya suka buku ini? Bisa jadi bahan bulan-bulanan :P*
+ *pasang nada sedatar mungkin* yah, lumayan lah, apalagi settingan waktu dan tempatnya mirip banget dengan salah satu novel fav saya, yg serial Little House on the Praire-nya Wilders terus rada-rada mirip cerita si Anne Green Gables juga... *berdoa dalam hati, semoga tak tampak sebagai pujian*
- tuh kan, apa kata saya? Bagus kan bukunya!
+ *dasar, ini jebakan!* saya bilang lumayan, bukan bagus! *pura-pura kesal dan bete*
- yeee... ya udahlah, padahal menurut saya, bukunya sangat bagus. Mengharukan banget. Apalagi kalau kamu dah baca kelanjutannya *kaget, dooohh... jebakan lagi!!!*
+ ada kelanjutannya toh? *berusaha sebaik mungkin biar tidak terdengar terlalu antusias*
- ada, ini kan novel berseri, mau pinjem lanjutannya? *arghhh... *
+ sok ajah kalo ada mah... *siaalll!!! Sambaran saya terlalu cepat beberapa detik, jadi keliatan deh kalo saia suka dan tertarik sama buku ini. Tapi sebelum dia menyambar dengan cercaan dan ledekan... hehe... kaw harus bisa berpikir lebih cepat agar bisa meledek saya!*
+ Eh yang si Karamazov jd pinjem kan? Males neh kalo dah bawa ternyata gak jadi pinjem... *pengalihan topik pembicaraan selalu menjadi ramuan manjur dalam menghindari topik yang tak diinginkan, ayo... apa kata dunia kalau dia tahu saya suka buku ini? Hehe*
- serial Love Comes Softly ada 8 seri dan... *dari nadanya terbayang dia tersenyum puas dengan ekspresi seperti kucing yang melihat mangsa gemuk dan gurih, tikus yang terperosok di mangkuk susu*
+ *beberapa mikrodetik sebelum bencana tiba* ... jadi kan minjemnya? Yang si Karamazov keren banget tau! Beda lah dengan karya Dostoyevsky yang lain. Ada pembunuhannya juga. Bla-bla-bla-..,
Pfiuhh.... satu hari terselematkan... entah kalau entar pas peminjaman buku kedua :P
Konon, cinta pada pandangan pertama bukanlah cinta sesungguhnya, tapi nafsu, tak lebih dari sekedar rasa antusiasme... cinta yang sejati akan datang kemudian seiring waktu. Cinta akan datang seiring eratnya kebersamaan... Cinta, akan datang secara manis dan diam-diam, bersemayam di lubuk hati..halah... :P
Sometimes love isn't fireworks. Sometimes, love just comes softly…
PS : niatnya cuma mu ngasih 3 bintang saja, tp karena settingan ceritanya lucu, nambah setengah bintang. 3.5. tapi coz ga ada rate setengah, terpaksa didongkrak jd 4 :P
October 29, 2025
الحب... ما هو الحب؟
خدعونا حين أخبرونا بأن الحب هو ذلك الحب الافلاطوني الموجود في كتب و أفلام القرنين العشرين و الحادي والعشرين.
أذلك حقاً الحب؟
ربما يكون أحد أوجه الحب الكثيرة، و لكن أجملهم و أعمقهم و أقواهم هو ما وصفه رب العالمين ب "المودة و الرحمة"... فكم من حبٍ إفلاطوني تحول بعد حين إلى بغضٍ و كراهية و ربما إلى عداوة؟
أما الحب المبني و ربما الناتج من المودة والرحمة، فهو الباقي الخالد في القلوب إلى اخر نبضٍ لها.
هذا كان جانباً واحداً في هذه الرواية الجميلة، التي كذلك صورت لنا العديد من المعاني اللي نفتقدها بشدة في هذه الأيام المقفرة، مثل الإيمان بالقضاء و القدر "من منظور مسيحي إنما مشابه لمنظورنا الإسلامي"، الرجولة و ما تقتضيه من الشهامة و المروءة و الجد في العمل و تحمل المسئولية و كيف أن الرجل هو عمود المنزل إن صلح صلح البيت و إن فسد فقد فسد، المرأة و دورها في بيتها و مع زوجها و أبنائها و نحو المجتمع و أنها داعمة للرجل يستشيرها و يرجع إليها و يحتاج دعمها كحاجتها لدعمه، التفهم لحاجات الطرف الآخر و تقدير مجهوداته و التغاضي عن زلاته مما يجعل الحياة أجمل و المشاعر أعمق -حتى الباهت منها-، التعاون المجتمعي الجميل الذي صار شبه منقرض إلا لدى من رحم ربي، البساطة في التعامل و المراعاة و المحبة دون مصالح و حب الخير للآخرين إلخ... الرواية مليئة بمعانٍ مختلفة و جميلة و رقيقة تلمس القلب.
أما أسلوب السرد و الحوار فهو سلس و سريع و مضاد للملل :)
أرشحها جداً، تقييمي ما بين 4 - 4.5 ⭐
4 أكتوبر 2024
خدعونا حين أخبرونا بأن الحب هو ذلك الحب الافلاطوني الموجود في كتب و أفلام القرنين العشرين و الحادي والعشرين.
أذلك حقاً الحب؟
ربما يكون أحد أوجه الحب الكثيرة، و لكن أجملهم و أعمقهم و أقواهم هو ما وصفه رب العالمين ب "المودة و الرحمة"... فكم من حبٍ إفلاطوني تحول بعد حين إلى بغضٍ و كراهية و ربما إلى عداوة؟
أما الحب المبني و ربما الناتج من المودة والرحمة، فهو الباقي الخالد في القلوب إلى اخر نبضٍ لها.
هذا كان جانباً واحداً في هذه الرواية الجميلة، التي كذلك صورت لنا العديد من المعاني اللي نفتقدها بشدة في هذه الأيام المقفرة، مثل الإيمان بالقضاء و القدر "من منظور مسيحي إنما مشابه لمنظورنا الإسلامي"، الرجولة و ما تقتضيه من الشهامة و المروءة و الجد في العمل و تحمل المسئولية و كيف أن الرجل هو عمود المنزل إن صلح صلح البيت و إن فسد فقد فسد، المرأة و دورها في بيتها و مع زوجها و أبنائها و نحو المجتمع و أنها داعمة للرجل يستشيرها و يرجع إليها و يحتاج دعمها كحاجتها لدعمه، التفهم لحاجات الطرف الآخر و تقدير مجهوداته و التغاضي عن زلاته مما يجعل الحياة أجمل و المشاعر أعمق -حتى الباهت منها-، التعاون المجتمعي الجميل الذي صار شبه منقرض إلا لدى من رحم ربي، البساطة في التعامل و المراعاة و المحبة دون مصالح و حب الخير للآخرين إلخ... الرواية مليئة بمعانٍ مختلفة و جميلة و رقيقة تلمس القلب.
أما أسلوب السرد و الحوار فهو سلس و سريع و مضاد للملل :)
أرشحها جداً، تقييمي ما بين 4 - 4.5 ⭐
4 أكتوبر 2024
December 26, 2022
I absolutely LOVE this book. Marty is incredibly relatable. The narration feels genuine. I laughed and cried throughout the whole book. I enjoyed the themes of family and coming closer to God held within this book. My mom read this book to us, and I loved every second of it.
Reading this book made me want to become a better person and more reliant on God. I would recommend this book to anyone who wants inspiration to become better.
Reading this book made me want to become a better person and more reliant on God. I would recommend this book to anyone who wants inspiration to become better.
February 22, 2025
Loved this book so much! I love books that feature homesteading, and what life was like for pioneer women who had to live without any modern conveniences, and this book definitely had that! A good bit of the book focused on daily routines for both Marty and Clark, and what life was like for them
living completely off the land, having to make pretty much everything they had. It was a bit heavy at times and dealt with grief and struggling to overcome life's difficulties. I really loved the intimate community feel and “the ways” of that time, like how the women all brought something hand made to a new baby in the community, because back then, everything a baby had was handmade. The faith based threads were also very strong! I have to admit, even though she was grieving, I didn't care for Martys character and couldn't relate to her pride in the beginning of the book. But somewhere during her journey towards living again and her hope in "Clarks God”, I found myself rooting for her and being proud of her. And Clark! Oh man, I do believe he's one of the most considerate male characters ever written into a book. His patience and his gentleness just really made the book what it was. I'm very much looking forward to the next book in the series.
living completely off the land, having to make pretty much everything they had. It was a bit heavy at times and dealt with grief and struggling to overcome life's difficulties. I really loved the intimate community feel and “the ways” of that time, like how the women all brought something hand made to a new baby in the community, because back then, everything a baby had was handmade. The faith based threads were also very strong! I have to admit, even though she was grieving, I didn't care for Martys character and couldn't relate to her pride in the beginning of the book. But somewhere during her journey towards living again and her hope in "Clarks God”, I found myself rooting for her and being proud of her. And Clark! Oh man, I do believe he's one of the most considerate male characters ever written into a book. His patience and his gentleness just really made the book what it was. I'm very much looking forward to the next book in the series.
July 5, 2025
4.5✨
Sweet and meaningful, an enjoyable read with lovable characters. 🥹🫶🏼 I loved it, and can’t wait to read the next one!!! 🥰🥰🥰
CW: (Non-specific spoilers) A girl becomes pregnant out of wedlock, is found dead before the baby is born, and her abuser is the suspect.
Sweet and meaningful, an enjoyable read with lovable characters. 🥹🫶🏼 I loved it, and can’t wait to read the next one!!! 🥰🥰🥰
CW: (Non-specific spoilers) A girl becomes pregnant out of wedlock, is found dead before the baby is born, and her abuser is the suspect.
September 19, 2009
This is my first Janette Oke novel, and I plan to read more by her. This was a bit like Little House on the Prairie. Oke's prose style is simple and doesn't call attention to itself. The only things I found to be a little bit annoying were the bumpkin dialect she writes in for the dialogue, and how the characters are always drinking coffee-- as though the author were in a rut and couldn't decide what else to do with them! But the story is a good one, sweet and simple, and I'm looking forward to reading the rest in the series. It's a sweet contrast to other westerns that delve into immoral themes. Janette Oke brings us the Christian side of the frontier.
August 8, 2015
A wonderful read.
April 4, 2024
This was so fun to re-read! I love the how it showed Marty's everyday life without ever feeling slow. Her duel love of Christ and Clark slowly building through the book was just delightful.
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