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Love Comes SoftlyJanette Oke

Christian Historical Romance

Love Comes Softly

by Janette Oke

Book 1 of the Love Comes Softly series

192 pages · First published 1979

Marty Claridge's dreams of building a new life on the western frontier are shattered when her husband dies, leaving her widowed, pregnant, and far from home. Clark Davis, a widower struggling to raise his young daughter Missie, offers Marty a marriage of convenience that will provide her with shelter and give his daughter a mother. Although Marty agrees out of necessity, she finds it difficult to adjust to her new circumstances, especially Clark's quiet faith and the responsibilities of frontier family life. As the seasons pass, shared hardships, growing trust, and unexpected affection begin to transform their practical arrangement into something deeper. The first Love Comes Softly novel is a Christian historical romance about grief, second chances, faith, and love that develops gradually through everyday acts of kindness. Warm and quietly hopeful, this frontier romance suits readers who enjoy practical marriages, second chances, and love growing through everyday kindness.

Paired for this story

Peach Iced Tea + Lost Word Collins

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At a glance

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Spice1 of 5
Suspense1 of 5
Creepy0 of 5
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No surprises at chapter twelve

Content notes

Sudden death of a spouse; grief and bereavement; pregnancy following widowhood; emotional distress surrounding a marriage of convenience; adjustment to a blended family; mild romantic affection, including kissing.

Alcohol-Free Pour

Peach Iced Tea

Sweet peaches and refreshing tea evoke the simple comforts of prairie home life and the gentle affection growing between Marty and Clark.

What you'll need

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How to mix it

  1. Steep the tea and any herbs or whole spices in hot water according to the tea type, then strain. Stir in sweetener and juices. Chill and serve over ice.
  2. Garnish: Citrus peel, herb, or fruit from the recipe, if applicable.
  3. Glassware: Highball glass.
21+

Cocktail Pour · 21+

Lost Word Collins

For adults of legal drinking age. Please drink responsibly.

Bright lemon and botanical gin reflect the fresh beginnings Marty and Clark discover as their practical marriage slowly grows into love.

What you'll need

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How to mix it

  1. Shake gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup with ice. Strain over fresh ice and top with soda water.
  2. Garnish: Lemon wheel.
  3. Glassware: Collins glass.

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