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Love Comes Softly #5
Love's Unending Legacy
Book 5 of the bestselling Love Comes Softly series. Marty Davis had thoroughly enjoyed her visit with daughter Missie, even though a tragic accident had extended it far longer than originally planned. But now she and Clark are home again, and there are changes to make. The family begins to adjust to Clark's crutch, and Clark and Marty recognize their children's new maturity and independence. But Nandry seems unable to come to terms with Clark's handicap; is she blaming God for the accident? The "baby of the family" is going to be a doctor. Ellie has blossomed into a lovely young woman, but is there any fellow around special enough to ask for her hand? Clare and Kate eagerly anticipate their new baby, but has life prepared them for what lies ahead?
240 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1984
181 people are currently reading
3798 people want to read
About the author
Janette Oke
356 books3,394 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 201 reviews
May 18, 2020
I so enjoy reading these Love Comes Softly Classics by Janette One. She truly is The Sweetheart of Christian Fiction. I have enjoyed keeping up with the large family. However as time passes Marty and Clark's family seems to be spreading out further away from them. As heart breaking as it is to Marty and Clark they want what's best for their family. All they can do is raise them in a home where God's ways are taught and lived out in their daily lives . Marty and Clark weren't rich in wealth but rich in love for their family and that is the legacy they left their children as they grew to adulthood and left the nest to begin their new life.
Marty has a secret she is keeping from her family. In time she shares it . How will her family react to the truth she has kept from them? These much loved classics are very good for family reading and can be enjoyed from youth to adulthood. Good clean reading by a well known author. Loves Unending Legacy is the fifth book in this series.
These books are a part of my personal library. I was fortunate to find the entire set of the original books at a garage sale. A review wasn't requested or needed for that matter. Because I treasure these books it is my pleasure to do so.
Marty has a secret she is keeping from her family. In time she shares it . How will her family react to the truth she has kept from them? These much loved classics are very good for family reading and can be enjoyed from youth to adulthood. Good clean reading by a well known author. Loves Unending Legacy is the fifth book in this series.
These books are a part of my personal library. I was fortunate to find the entire set of the original books at a garage sale. A review wasn't requested or needed for that matter. Because I treasure these books it is my pleasure to do so.
June 8, 2009
Fifth in the "Love Comes Softly" series about a family in the pioneer days in the USA. In this book, Marty and Clark return from their long visit out west to see Missie and family, after a terrible accident that left Clark with only one leg. Marty takes a long time to recover from the journey, prompting her family to worry about her.
Meanwhile, their son Clare and his wife Kate anticipate the birth of their first baby, and their youngest son Luke prepares to leave for medical college. Only Ellie is left at home, and when Ellie falls in love she can't imagine how she could ever break her mother's heart by leaving too.
It's very light Christian fiction, but the characters somehow get under my skin and I found myself with tears in my eyes two or three times as I read this book. Easy reading that's somehow difficult to put down.
Meanwhile, their son Clare and his wife Kate anticipate the birth of their first baby, and their youngest son Luke prepares to leave for medical college. Only Ellie is left at home, and when Ellie falls in love she can't imagine how she could ever break her mother's heart by leaving too.
It's very light Christian fiction, but the characters somehow get under my skin and I found myself with tears in my eyes two or three times as I read this book. Easy reading that's somehow difficult to put down.
September 17, 2011
I enjoyed this story. It chronicles the life of a growing family and has a small amount of romance. The story is clean, easy to read, and touching. My only complaint would be that some of the problems are overcome too easily. I love that the book talks about relying on God, but even when you are able to rely on Him and accept that your trials are for your good, there is heartache and struggle. Nandry in particular struggles for so long, then is able to completely accept everything after one conversation.
July 23, 2019
This starts off right where the last book ended. The family has to come to terms with Clark’s new predicament and the exciting twist that awaits Marty and Clark a few months after they arrive back home. Faith will be tested, tears will be shed but the Davis’s never give up. They always know how to keep on going no matter what life throws at them.
August 16, 2018
Loved this book in the seires, back at their home. I loved seeing the characters all again and Marty's little plot twist. <3
Can't wait to read book six!
Can't wait to read book six!
October 15, 2021
I love this book so much! This is definitely my favorite so far. I loved the scriptural truths in this book. The last chapter was the best ending of any book I have read. It has such great truth and leaves me with a happy, and thankful feeling. I am so glad that God is such an amazing God and I have parents who taught me how to have an unending legacy through Him.
December 31, 2009
This is probably my favorite in series, because this book is about Clark, Marty and their children that are still at home. When I was reading the books that were more about other family members, I found myself wondering, What is happening at Clark and Marty's house? Not that I didn't like the other books, I just missed reading about Clark and Marty. I love how Clark and Marty are so in love, because at first, Marty didn't even talk to Clark. I LOVE the movies, but I LOVE the books more.
May 3, 2021
Sweetly written and filled with hope. Strenghtening my faith and enlarging my own desires. 💕
"It starts with a Father who loved us enough to send His Son. It starts with a man an' a woman determined to follow His ways. It starts when two people are willin' to give a child back to the Lord. It starts with all thet - but there never needs to be an end to it. It's the kind of legacy thet truly lasts."
"It starts with a Father who loved us enough to send His Son. It starts with a man an' a woman determined to follow His ways. It starts when two people are willin' to give a child back to the Lord. It starts with all thet - but there never needs to be an end to it. It's the kind of legacy thet truly lasts."
May 20, 2019
Another book where I'm not offering a full review. It was a pretty good book, and fairly realistic as well. It covers a large time span and jumps sometimes, but it is done very naturally.
I love Lane, and I felt so bad for Kate. I loved Ellie and her dedication as well.
I love Lane, and I felt so bad for Kate. I loved Ellie and her dedication as well.
January 30, 2016
Finally getting back into this series; I had missed it.
Read
January 28, 2018Marty and Clark Davis returned home after having been gone for a year. The had been to visit Missie and Willie. Clark had an accident which caused him to lose a leg. They were met in town by their extended family and had dinner at the hotel. They returned home after dark and Marty's exploration of home had to wait until the next morning. She seemed very tired lately and wondered that the trip had worn her out so much.
She went to visit Clare and Kate who had moved into the old house to see what changes they had made and she was waiting to meet Arnie's girl. She went to see Wanda and saw that there was no change in Rett. He was still an adult with a child's mind but seemed to care for animals of many different varieties. They were introduced to Anne who Arnie asked to marry after she had met his parents. His announcement was made on Sunday when he returned from taking her home after Sunday dinner. Clare announced to the family at that dinner that Kate was pregnant. That was when Marty realized the reason she was so tired lately. She also was pregnant but embarrassed to tell anyone since she was now 43. Clark and the family were worried about her being so tired so she told him when he said that he had made an appointment for her to see the doctor. He was a happy man to have another child with the others so close to all being grown and gone.
Willie's father had gone to visit Willie and Missie and they heard that he had made it safely. Missie had her a new baby. Marty felt guilty that she wasn't very excited about her new baby but learned to love it after it started moving. All the family seemed excited.
Nandry seemed to have something bothering her and it was wondered about. Luke left to go back east to start learning to be a doctor. He had put off his leaving until Clark and Marty returned and now it was time to go. He would be back at Christmas to be the best man at Arnie & Anne's wedding.
Ma's husband, Ben had a heart attack and died. Marty took the time to visit her and provided comfort as her friend. Zeke LaHaye had decided to stay longer out West with Willie and Missie and had the rest of his family join him there. He sent Lane Howard to look after his place near Clark and Marty's. Lane came to see them and first saw Ellie in the barn with the new puppies. Lane was instantly taken with Ellie and she seemed to care for him too.
Christmas came and Luke came home for a visit. He was living near Pastor Joe and Clae and their daughter. He was often busy and didn't see them too often. Luke talked to Clark about the advancements being made it artificial limbs and thought that Clark might be a good candidate to try one out. Nandry walked outside during this discussion. It was clear that something was still bothering her. Arnie was married and the family was together for Christmas with the exception of Clae and her family and Missie and hers. Lane bought a locket for Ellie but she refused it. She told Lane that she couldn't accept it because he would soon be leaving and she didn't think she could leave her family. After everyone went their way after the holiday, Marty noticed that Ellie didn't seem happy and thought that is was because she was overworked in taking over the care of the house because of Marty being pregnant. She was determined that Ellie should have time to rest.
Neither Clark nor Marty noticed that the problem with Ellie was Lane and that Lane was staying away due to Ellie's rejection of his interest. It wasn't until the middle of January arrived and Marty went to see Kate that it was suggested that they might have had an argument. Marty thought that it might be possible and the she would talk to Clark before approaching Ellie to talk about what was bothering her. Marty thought it might be that Ellie was afraid of leaving home.
Clark had a talk with Ellie and told her that her mother would rather have her happy and Ellie was relieved. She thought that she had lost her chance with Lane but Clark told her that he didn't think that Lane would give up so easily. Ellie hoped so because she wasn't confident in herself to approach him first. She would sort it out in the morning but felt she could finally get a good night's rest.
Clark and Marty were woke up early in the morning and Marty felt it wasn't for good news. Kate had gone into labor and it was too early. Clare was crying and Clark left to get the doctor. Marty went to see Kate. The doctor arrived and told them that there was no heartbeat. Ellie woke up to an empty house and went to fix breakfast at Kate's. Kate delivered a stillborn girl just before noon. Marty felt guilty for having prayed that God take her child rather than Clare & Kate's. She couldn't bring herself to visit Kate because she didn't know how Kate would accept her still being pregnant.
Nandry came to visit and this caused Marty to see the error in her thinking. Nandry still had something bothering her and she finally talked to Marty about it. She felt guilty for blaming God for allowing Clark to lose his leg. She also blamed God for taking Clare's baby girl. Ellie arrived to hear what Nandry said and they both explained to Nandry that it wasn't the fault of God. Good things had happened as a result of everything that had happened and they had come to accept it as God's will. Clark was no less of a man than he was before the accident. Ellie told Nandry that for a while she had thought that she would be embarrassed to be seen with her father an invalid but she prayed about it and she no longer felt that way. Nandry felt better for having confessed her feelings and went home feeling much relieved for having rid herself of the burden of guilt. Marty went to see Kate.
Kate was feeling much better and had missed seeing Marty. She told her that she wasn't bitter that Marty was still pregnant. She had felt something was wrong for a couple of days before the miscarriage. She still had her health and the doctor told her that she could have another child. She was looking forward more now to seeing Marty's child. Marty insisted that it would be another girl. She invited Kate and Clare to dinner and Lane came along too.
Lane and Ellie worked out their problems when Ellie told Lane that she had talked to her mother and was told that it was acceptable for her to leave home. They began seeing each other regularly again. They received a letter from the LaHaye's telling them that they wanted Lane to stay until they could sell the farmland in the spring. Ellie and Lane decided that Ellie would remain at home until the baby was born in February. She and Lane would be married when the baby was a month old at the end of March. This would give them all time to adjust to her leaving and for Marty to be able to recover from having a child and take over the running of her household once again.
The baby came and Ellie ended up delivering the baby while Clark went to get the doctor. Ellie said she was scared beyond herself but she did well. Luke sent some baby shoes, Clae sent a gown and Missie sent a sweater. Ellie got to name the baby, Belinda May.
The time came for Ellie to get married and they arrived at the church where Fran took charge of the baby. Clark kissed Elvira Davis for the last time knowing that she was soon to be Elvira Howard. He couldn't be prouder to have Lane for his son-in-law.
They had a Sunday dinner soon after the wedding and Arnie announced that Anne was pregnant. Marty was concerned how Kate would feel about it and was surprise when Kate announced just afterwards that she was pregnant too.
It was short time later that everything was sold on the LaHaye farm where Lane and Ellie were staying. Lane needed something to do and Ellie suggested finding a job in town. Lane began working at the livery. An attorney paid them a visit and Lane found out that the man who had married the aunt who had raised him had left him everything he had. They were given a legacy. They were so excited and began dreaming of what they could do once the farm was sold. The farm was sold during the summer months and they headed West. They had money now to purchase their own ranch. Lane wouldn't have to go to work for someone else trying to earn enough money. They bought an organ for the church and left money to be used later on before they moved on.
Clark explained to Marty that they had their own legacy. It began when Christ sent his son to die for us. Then in follows that a man and a woman are determined to follow his ways. Then those two people are willing to give their child back to the Lord. This seems to happen over and over again to become a legacy that has no end.
She went to visit Clare and Kate who had moved into the old house to see what changes they had made and she was waiting to meet Arnie's girl. She went to see Wanda and saw that there was no change in Rett. He was still an adult with a child's mind but seemed to care for animals of many different varieties. They were introduced to Anne who Arnie asked to marry after she had met his parents. His announcement was made on Sunday when he returned from taking her home after Sunday dinner. Clare announced to the family at that dinner that Kate was pregnant. That was when Marty realized the reason she was so tired lately. She also was pregnant but embarrassed to tell anyone since she was now 43. Clark and the family were worried about her being so tired so she told him when he said that he had made an appointment for her to see the doctor. He was a happy man to have another child with the others so close to all being grown and gone.
Willie's father had gone to visit Willie and Missie and they heard that he had made it safely. Missie had her a new baby. Marty felt guilty that she wasn't very excited about her new baby but learned to love it after it started moving. All the family seemed excited.
Nandry seemed to have something bothering her and it was wondered about. Luke left to go back east to start learning to be a doctor. He had put off his leaving until Clark and Marty returned and now it was time to go. He would be back at Christmas to be the best man at Arnie & Anne's wedding.
Ma's husband, Ben had a heart attack and died. Marty took the time to visit her and provided comfort as her friend. Zeke LaHaye had decided to stay longer out West with Willie and Missie and had the rest of his family join him there. He sent Lane Howard to look after his place near Clark and Marty's. Lane came to see them and first saw Ellie in the barn with the new puppies. Lane was instantly taken with Ellie and she seemed to care for him too.
Christmas came and Luke came home for a visit. He was living near Pastor Joe and Clae and their daughter. He was often busy and didn't see them too often. Luke talked to Clark about the advancements being made it artificial limbs and thought that Clark might be a good candidate to try one out. Nandry walked outside during this discussion. It was clear that something was still bothering her. Arnie was married and the family was together for Christmas with the exception of Clae and her family and Missie and hers. Lane bought a locket for Ellie but she refused it. She told Lane that she couldn't accept it because he would soon be leaving and she didn't think she could leave her family. After everyone went their way after the holiday, Marty noticed that Ellie didn't seem happy and thought that is was because she was overworked in taking over the care of the house because of Marty being pregnant. She was determined that Ellie should have time to rest.
Neither Clark nor Marty noticed that the problem with Ellie was Lane and that Lane was staying away due to Ellie's rejection of his interest. It wasn't until the middle of January arrived and Marty went to see Kate that it was suggested that they might have had an argument. Marty thought that it might be possible and the she would talk to Clark before approaching Ellie to talk about what was bothering her. Marty thought it might be that Ellie was afraid of leaving home.
Clark had a talk with Ellie and told her that her mother would rather have her happy and Ellie was relieved. She thought that she had lost her chance with Lane but Clark told her that he didn't think that Lane would give up so easily. Ellie hoped so because she wasn't confident in herself to approach him first. She would sort it out in the morning but felt she could finally get a good night's rest.
Clark and Marty were woke up early in the morning and Marty felt it wasn't for good news. Kate had gone into labor and it was too early. Clare was crying and Clark left to get the doctor. Marty went to see Kate. The doctor arrived and told them that there was no heartbeat. Ellie woke up to an empty house and went to fix breakfast at Kate's. Kate delivered a stillborn girl just before noon. Marty felt guilty for having prayed that God take her child rather than Clare & Kate's. She couldn't bring herself to visit Kate because she didn't know how Kate would accept her still being pregnant.
Nandry came to visit and this caused Marty to see the error in her thinking. Nandry still had something bothering her and she finally talked to Marty about it. She felt guilty for blaming God for allowing Clark to lose his leg. She also blamed God for taking Clare's baby girl. Ellie arrived to hear what Nandry said and they both explained to Nandry that it wasn't the fault of God. Good things had happened as a result of everything that had happened and they had come to accept it as God's will. Clark was no less of a man than he was before the accident. Ellie told Nandry that for a while she had thought that she would be embarrassed to be seen with her father an invalid but she prayed about it and she no longer felt that way. Nandry felt better for having confessed her feelings and went home feeling much relieved for having rid herself of the burden of guilt. Marty went to see Kate.
Kate was feeling much better and had missed seeing Marty. She told her that she wasn't bitter that Marty was still pregnant. She had felt something was wrong for a couple of days before the miscarriage. She still had her health and the doctor told her that she could have another child. She was looking forward more now to seeing Marty's child. Marty insisted that it would be another girl. She invited Kate and Clare to dinner and Lane came along too.
Lane and Ellie worked out their problems when Ellie told Lane that she had talked to her mother and was told that it was acceptable for her to leave home. They began seeing each other regularly again. They received a letter from the LaHaye's telling them that they wanted Lane to stay until they could sell the farmland in the spring. Ellie and Lane decided that Ellie would remain at home until the baby was born in February. She and Lane would be married when the baby was a month old at the end of March. This would give them all time to adjust to her leaving and for Marty to be able to recover from having a child and take over the running of her household once again.
The baby came and Ellie ended up delivering the baby while Clark went to get the doctor. Ellie said she was scared beyond herself but she did well. Luke sent some baby shoes, Clae sent a gown and Missie sent a sweater. Ellie got to name the baby, Belinda May.
The time came for Ellie to get married and they arrived at the church where Fran took charge of the baby. Clark kissed Elvira Davis for the last time knowing that she was soon to be Elvira Howard. He couldn't be prouder to have Lane for his son-in-law.
They had a Sunday dinner soon after the wedding and Arnie announced that Anne was pregnant. Marty was concerned how Kate would feel about it and was surprise when Kate announced just afterwards that she was pregnant too.
It was short time later that everything was sold on the LaHaye farm where Lane and Ellie were staying. Lane needed something to do and Ellie suggested finding a job in town. Lane began working at the livery. An attorney paid them a visit and Lane found out that the man who had married the aunt who had raised him had left him everything he had. They were given a legacy. They were so excited and began dreaming of what they could do once the farm was sold. The farm was sold during the summer months and they headed West. They had money now to purchase their own ranch. Lane wouldn't have to go to work for someone else trying to earn enough money. They bought an organ for the church and left money to be used later on before they moved on.
Clark explained to Marty that they had their own legacy. It began when Christ sent his son to die for us. Then in follows that a man and a woman are determined to follow his ways. Then those two people are willing to give their child back to the Lord. This seems to happen over and over again to become a legacy that has no end.
May 22, 2022
Loved these books as a teen and young adult until I read Mrs. Mike and realized that this author merely copied another author's work as her own without giving them credit. She plagerized almost the entire Canadian West series but it really put a bad taste in my mouth for any of her other books including her animal series.
December 7, 2017
Strike 2 for this author. If the sixth book is as bland and preachy as this, I won't be able to finish the series, which is such a shame because her Canadian West series is fantastic. I'm so disappointed that this series isn't matching that, especially since this one had so much potential!
There are two main plots in this book. The first is the rest of the family now needs to adjust to Clark's injury. The second is Marty is pregnant again, but she's having doubts. First with Clark: I ranted in my review of the fourth book that Clark never doubted his faith in frustration. He just accepted his new life. This made the story boring and, frankly, uninspirational. When their adopted daughter starts doubting her faith, she becomes angry and reserved. I would think "conflict! yes!" However, I was disappointed because her doubt was mentioned a couple of times in the beginning of the book and then not at all until one chapter near the end. She basically disappeared from the story, so the struggle didn't build. It was resolved in a very bland way.
Second, Marty's pregnancy. Marty doesn't want this child because she's older than when she gave birth to her other children, and she's concerned about her health. This is a fair concern. She lives in a rural area during a time when medicine was still very primitive. There was no prenatal care of any kind back then. Marty worries for a couple of chapters, thinking about how she doesn't want the baby, worrying about how others will perceive her, worrying about appearance when she gives birth at the same time as her daughter-in-law. Again, these are all fair concerns, and I was invested in Marty's journey to love and accept her new child. Similar to the adopted daughter's subplot, this also had a quick resolution. The first time she felt the baby kick, she fell in love with the child. That was it. To be fair, I've never been pregnant. I don't know what it would be like to carry a child. Still, I expected more inner wrestling with Marty. Perhaps she accepted the child at that moment, but then she still has reservations once the thrill goes away. Nope. She is thoroughly thrilled to have that baby and has no more qualms about it.
This book was more episodic than narrative, and that's probably why I struggled with it. I prefer to read about someone struggling to overcome some odd or achieve some goal. I want to read about characters developing, growing, overcoming obstacles. To me, watching a flawed character evolve through hardship is more inspirational than a happy-go-lucky family planting in their field and celebrating Christmas. Even when hardship does hit, it's overcome by the next chapter. This doesn't engage me. However, if you don't like grit, and this is your castle in the sky, go for it.
There are two main plots in this book. The first is the rest of the family now needs to adjust to Clark's injury. The second is Marty is pregnant again, but she's having doubts. First with Clark: I ranted in my review of the fourth book that Clark never doubted his faith in frustration. He just accepted his new life. This made the story boring and, frankly, uninspirational. When their adopted daughter starts doubting her faith, she becomes angry and reserved. I would think "conflict! yes!" However, I was disappointed because her doubt was mentioned a couple of times in the beginning of the book and then not at all until one chapter near the end. She basically disappeared from the story, so the struggle didn't build. It was resolved in a very bland way.
Second, Marty's pregnancy. Marty doesn't want this child because she's older than when she gave birth to her other children, and she's concerned about her health. This is a fair concern. She lives in a rural area during a time when medicine was still very primitive. There was no prenatal care of any kind back then. Marty worries for a couple of chapters, thinking about how she doesn't want the baby, worrying about how others will perceive her, worrying about appearance when she gives birth at the same time as her daughter-in-law. Again, these are all fair concerns, and I was invested in Marty's journey to love and accept her new child. Similar to the adopted daughter's subplot, this also had a quick resolution. The first time she felt the baby kick, she fell in love with the child. That was it. To be fair, I've never been pregnant. I don't know what it would be like to carry a child. Still, I expected more inner wrestling with Marty. Perhaps she accepted the child at that moment, but then she still has reservations once the thrill goes away. Nope. She is thoroughly thrilled to have that baby and has no more qualms about it.
This book was more episodic than narrative, and that's probably why I struggled with it. I prefer to read about someone struggling to overcome some odd or achieve some goal. I want to read about characters developing, growing, overcoming obstacles. To me, watching a flawed character evolve through hardship is more inspirational than a happy-go-lucky family planting in their field and celebrating Christmas. Even when hardship does hit, it's overcome by the next chapter. This doesn't engage me. However, if you don't like grit, and this is your castle in the sky, go for it.
April 2, 2015
I'm going through and re-reading the whole series. In 2012 I only read 6/8 of the books. My goal is to read all 8 this year.
I really like the pacing of this book. In many of the books I feel like you miss big chunks of time (especially #2 which covered more than a decade and would skip years at a time). This one covers a year and doesn't skip large chunks of time.
SPOLIER: I really appreciate the honesty Marty had with regards to pregnancy. It's not always easy having a surprise baby. One thing that kind of surprised me though is I did the math and Luke would have been born when Marty was 27/28 years old. Marty is 43 in this book with her surprise child. How did she not have children for 17 or so years? Not saying it couldn't happen, but she had all her other kids in quick succession and there is no talk of pregnancy issues or child loss. I suppose the reader is to assume she had issues, but one thing I would have liked to see in this series is more talk of child loss/ infant mortality since it was at a high percentage. Yes, there are a few families mentioned who have had issues in this series but in order to reflect reality it should have been pretty much every family.
Another thing that isn't talked about enough is disease (although it seems like books 6-8 will get into that more-we’ll see). Diseases like cholera, dysentery, smallpox, measles, mumps, TB, and so many others were super common and "normal" back then, yet I hear nothing of them in the first 5 books. Once again, in order to reflect reality better it should have been much more prevalent in the books.
Going back to this book though, even though it is more romance-y than any of the books before it (I am not a big romance buff) I do like this book better than some of the other ones in the series. Unlike the movies the series is based off of, it is not cheesy and when discussing Ellie's relationship, although there is a lot of emotion, it comes from very practical problems which I can appreciate instead of scoff at. Also, this is the first book in the series that didn't have a big "plot hole" (see my other reviews to understand what I mean) so that's awesome.
I really like the pacing of this book. In many of the books I feel like you miss big chunks of time (especially #2 which covered more than a decade and would skip years at a time). This one covers a year and doesn't skip large chunks of time.
SPOLIER: I really appreciate the honesty Marty had with regards to pregnancy. It's not always easy having a surprise baby. One thing that kind of surprised me though is I did the math and Luke would have been born when Marty was 27/28 years old. Marty is 43 in this book with her surprise child. How did she not have children for 17 or so years? Not saying it couldn't happen, but she had all her other kids in quick succession and there is no talk of pregnancy issues or child loss. I suppose the reader is to assume she had issues, but one thing I would have liked to see in this series is more talk of child loss/ infant mortality since it was at a high percentage. Yes, there are a few families mentioned who have had issues in this series but in order to reflect reality it should have been pretty much every family.
Another thing that isn't talked about enough is disease (although it seems like books 6-8 will get into that more-we’ll see). Diseases like cholera, dysentery, smallpox, measles, mumps, TB, and so many others were super common and "normal" back then, yet I hear nothing of them in the first 5 books. Once again, in order to reflect reality better it should have been much more prevalent in the books.
Going back to this book though, even though it is more romance-y than any of the books before it (I am not a big romance buff) I do like this book better than some of the other ones in the series. Unlike the movies the series is based off of, it is not cheesy and when discussing Ellie's relationship, although there is a lot of emotion, it comes from very practical problems which I can appreciate instead of scoff at. Also, this is the first book in the series that didn't have a big "plot hole" (see my other reviews to understand what I mean) so that's awesome.
April 11, 2020
I honestly believe that after the first movie, the writers decided to just ditch the book plot lines and do their own thing.
Again, this book was NOTHING like the movie. There were several things I liked about this story. The lessons of trust, forgiveness and faith. The budding romance with Ellie and Lane. From book 1 I've always liked Clark. I thought the emotions were pretty accurate for all the tragedies and deaths that happened. Except for the one part where Ellie went from cool and collective to uncontrollable sobs in seconds. That part still doesn't make sense to me. I did like the fact that one of the characters had a bitterness toward God. The Davis family always seem so positive, no matter what happens. I get that their faith has a strong and grounded foundation, but it's not realistic to NEVER doubt or struggle spiritually. I wish there would be more spiritual struggles like this.
Very few parts of this book were predictable and I liked that. A story that never surprises is boring. I'm very excited for book 6. Since I'm almost through with the series, I'm a bit worried about who's going to die off within the last two books...
Again, this book was NOTHING like the movie. There were several things I liked about this story. The lessons of trust, forgiveness and faith. The budding romance with Ellie and Lane. From book 1 I've always liked Clark. I thought the emotions were pretty accurate for all the tragedies and deaths that happened. Except for the one part where Ellie went from cool and collective to uncontrollable sobs in seconds. That part still doesn't make sense to me. I did like the fact that one of the characters had a bitterness toward God. The Davis family always seem so positive, no matter what happens. I get that their faith has a strong and grounded foundation, but it's not realistic to NEVER doubt or struggle spiritually. I wish there would be more spiritual struggles like this.
Very few parts of this book were predictable and I liked that. A story that never surprises is boring. I'm very excited for book 6. Since I'm almost through with the series, I'm a bit worried about who's going to die off within the last two books...
April 4, 2022
Heartwarming
Revisting this series 30 years after I read it for the first time has been a delight. The stories, the sentiment, the setting and the writing have not aged. They are still as sweet, warm, wise and encouraging now as they were to my teenage self. I really like how engaging and positive these books are, despite the slow pace of events.
Revisting this series 30 years after I read it for the first time has been a delight. The stories, the sentiment, the setting and the writing have not aged. They are still as sweet, warm, wise and encouraging now as they were to my teenage self. I really like how engaging and positive these books are, despite the slow pace of events.
November 27, 2022
This one was good too.. I’m learning that while I hated Marty + Clark’s love story.. Their children are cute and tolerable and have big prairie adventures and that’s become okay for me. I’ve been reading these books for a while now. Three more left.
May 10, 2022
Just giving all of these 5 ⭐️’s cause I’d forgotten how good they are!
January 17, 2022
Notes for me to remember: Marty and Clark are back home. Family has to get use to him having one leg. Ellie marries Lane.
February 19, 2024
Another great book in the Love Come Softly series. Definitely different than the Hallmark movie but I personally love the book more.
November 14, 2024
Book #5 in the series - Marty & Clark are back from visiting Missie out west. Marty is adjusting to being back, while also adjusting to all the family changes that keep occurring. Another good book in the series! It’s as heartfelt as the last.
March 27, 2025
These keep getting worse. I’ll finish the series I think because the movies are so central to my childhood, but the books are so 80s church in all the wrong ways. No true failings in any of the characters. All of the conflict and tensions are straw men that are easily resolved. Also the “quotations” used for emphasis drive me nuts. Don’t recommend.
March 18, 2021
These books get better and better!
March 18, 2025
Reading these books feels like a warm hug. They are so wholesome and good and I love the Christian values that are weaved into the fabric of the story.
The pining between Ellie and Lane in this one was so good.
The pining between Ellie and Lane in this one was so good.
May 31, 2024
*contented sigh*
What a sweet, sweet story.
I love Ellie -- she's such a sweet, considerate daughter. I really enjoyed getting to know her more in this book. She reminds me of Missie when she was her age.
I was so excited when Marty realized she was expecting another child! But I don't understand her embarrassment. She's only forty-three, and so what if she's a grandmother? My own mother had her youngest when she was forty-two, and lost the one after that when she was forty-four. Anyway, what a joy Belinda is to her family! I know she made it much easier on her parents when Ellie left.
I love Lane. He is the sweetest. My love for him only grew in this book. I loved his romance with Ellie! Most would probably hate it, but I cackled with glee. It was adorable! I know I'll definitely miss them, though -- I shed a few tears with Marty. She'll be a blessing to Missie, though.
Poor Clare and Kate... I cried. I cried because I understand the pain. No, I've never experienced it (not with a child, though I have with a sibling), but I know how I'd feel if it happened to me. Excited waiting for eight months -- only to lose that precious child. Oh, the pain. 💔
I'm so happy for Arnie! He really loves his Anne and it's so sweet. Arnie is the best. I'm so excited for him to be a father!
Poor Ma Graham... I can only imagine. Losing her Ben must be so hard... Harder than Thornton, I'd think. I don't know. I hope she can heal. 💜
This one is probably tied with two and three, honestly... It was really good. I love this series. It makes me excited to have a family of my own, but also terrified. O Lord, if that be Your will, prepare me. I want it, Lord. Just prepare me.
What a sweet, sweet story.
I love Ellie -- she's such a sweet, considerate daughter. I really enjoyed getting to know her more in this book. She reminds me of Missie when she was her age.
I was so excited when Marty realized she was expecting another child! But I don't understand her embarrassment. She's only forty-three, and so what if she's a grandmother? My own mother had her youngest when she was forty-two, and lost the one after that when she was forty-four. Anyway, what a joy Belinda is to her family! I know she made it much easier on her parents when Ellie left.
I love Lane. He is the sweetest. My love for him only grew in this book. I loved his romance with Ellie! Most would probably hate it, but I cackled with glee. It was adorable! I know I'll definitely miss them, though -- I shed a few tears with Marty. She'll be a blessing to Missie, though.
Poor Clare and Kate... I cried. I cried because I understand the pain. No, I've never experienced it (not with a child, though I have with a sibling), but I know how I'd feel if it happened to me. Excited waiting for eight months -- only to lose that precious child. Oh, the pain. 💔
I'm so happy for Arnie! He really loves his Anne and it's so sweet. Arnie is the best. I'm so excited for him to be a father!
Poor Ma Graham... I can only imagine. Losing her Ben must be so hard... Harder than Thornton, I'd think. I don't know. I hope she can heal. 💜
This one is probably tied with two and three, honestly... It was really good. I love this series. It makes me excited to have a family of my own, but also terrified. O Lord, if that be Your will, prepare me. I want it, Lord. Just prepare me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 29, 2017
Clark and Marty are back home and the family is adjusting to Clark's handicap. He doesn't let it slow him down and rigs up all sorts of harnesses for his farm equipment. Clare and Kate are married and Arnie gets married to a girl named Anne.
Luke is off in the city learning to be a doctor. The LaHayes go out to visit Willie and Missie and someone comes to stay and care for their farm - Lane, Willie's ranch hand. Lane spends a good amount of time with the Davis family and falls in love with Ellie. She loves him back, but it will never work. She saw how hard it was (is) for her mother to have Missie so far away and couldn't hurt her mother like that. Lane is willing to farm (if he can find a farm that he can afford) even though he'd rather ranch. That's love.
After talking with Clark and Marty, Ellie is at peace with going west, so she and Lane can marry. She's sad to leave her family, but thrilled to be going to live by Missie! Lane also gets an unexpected inheritance, which makes starting a ranch a lot easier!
Clare and Kate are expecting baby and so is - Marty?! Yes, Mary. At first, she's embarrassed and does not want the baby. Everyone else is excited, even Kate. When Kate's baby is born too early and is stillborn, Marty doesn't know what to do. But Clare and Kate grow closer to each other and God through the trial and are even more thankful for Marty's new baby. Having little Belinda also eases the pain of Ellie leaving. Kate and Anne are both expecting at the end of the book.
The Davis clan is growing and quick!
Luke is off in the city learning to be a doctor. The LaHayes go out to visit Willie and Missie and someone comes to stay and care for their farm - Lane, Willie's ranch hand. Lane spends a good amount of time with the Davis family and falls in love with Ellie. She loves him back, but it will never work. She saw how hard it was (is) for her mother to have Missie so far away and couldn't hurt her mother like that. Lane is willing to farm (if he can find a farm that he can afford) even though he'd rather ranch. That's love.
After talking with Clark and Marty, Ellie is at peace with going west, so she and Lane can marry. She's sad to leave her family, but thrilled to be going to live by Missie! Lane also gets an unexpected inheritance, which makes starting a ranch a lot easier!
Clare and Kate are expecting baby and so is - Marty?! Yes, Mary. At first, she's embarrassed and does not want the baby. Everyone else is excited, even Kate. When Kate's baby is born too early and is stillborn, Marty doesn't know what to do. But Clare and Kate grow closer to each other and God through the trial and are even more thankful for Marty's new baby. Having little Belinda also eases the pain of Ellie leaving. Kate and Anne are both expecting at the end of the book.
The Davis clan is growing and quick!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 25, 2024
A cute romance, a wonderful surprise for everyone (especially Clark and Marty!), and lots of good family moments. I really understood how Ellie felt, because I, too, was a young lady (17) when my youngest sister was born, and I know how it is to not want to leave your family even to start your own during such an exciting time! God didn't do that in my life, but He could have, and I think I would have struggled like she did. A thoughtful read!
October 31, 2019
This has been a disappointing reread. The first time I read this book, my mother had just given birth to my sister at 42. Since the story focuses on Marty and her pregnancy at 44, I enjoyed it. I actually read it in one day because I couldn't put the book down. I have been excited to reread it.
And then I started it. All the charm I had found with it was pretty much gone. I still find the story about Marty's unplanned pregnancy encouraging (particularly since a lot of people put my mom down and told her she was "too old" or asked her why she did that to herself). But the other plot lines going on made me dread reading it.
Most of this book has unnecessary drama because people can't figure out what's wrong with someone so they sit back and go "hmm." Then they wait until something emotionally exploded to do anything. This is seen primarily in what happens with Ellie but also a bit with Nandry too.
But my biggest gripe was with how they handled spiritually struggling. Can't wrap your head around how God can let bad things happen to good people? It's OK! We'll just have a little pep talk/ mini sermon and then you'll suddenly get it and all your problems will magically disappear! Yay! Except… That's not how life works. You need lots of conversations, prayers, and time to accept what God's will in these situations is.
And then I started it. All the charm I had found with it was pretty much gone. I still find the story about Marty's unplanned pregnancy encouraging (particularly since a lot of people put my mom down and told her she was "too old" or asked her why she did that to herself). But the other plot lines going on made me dread reading it.
Most of this book has unnecessary drama because people can't figure out what's wrong with someone so they sit back and go "hmm." Then they wait until something emotionally exploded to do anything. This is seen primarily in what happens with Ellie but also a bit with Nandry too.
But my biggest gripe was with how they handled spiritually struggling. Can't wrap your head around how God can let bad things happen to good people? It's OK! We'll just have a little pep talk/ mini sermon and then you'll suddenly get it and all your problems will magically disappear! Yay! Except… That's not how life works. You need lots of conversations, prayers, and time to accept what God's will in these situations is.
January 7, 2019
This is my favorite book in the series so far. Getting to see the younger Davis children grow and start families of there own was great. Once again I was drawn in and had a hard time putting this down. Mrs. Oke did a fantastic job with this story. Love’s Unending Legacy did make me shed some tears. Once you read it though you’ll understand.
Like I mentioned above Love’s Unending Legacy is definitely my favorite in this series. Why they strayed so far from the books when making these into move I’ll never understand. Heck they would have turned out better. I’m looking forward to seeing were this family goes next and really hope the next book focuses on Ellie and Lane and their journey west. Although I wasn’t big on Missie and Willies story I’d definitely be interested in Ellie and Lanes.
As I’ve stated in my previous reviews for the other books in this series this is one I’d definitely recommend.
Like I mentioned above Love’s Unending Legacy is definitely my favorite in this series. Why they strayed so far from the books when making these into move I’ll never understand. Heck they would have turned out better. I’m looking forward to seeing were this family goes next and really hope the next book focuses on Ellie and Lane and their journey west. Although I wasn’t big on Missie and Willies story I’d definitely be interested in Ellie and Lanes.
As I’ve stated in my previous reviews for the other books in this series this is one I’d definitely recommend.
May 26, 2021
I've often wondered why Michael Landon Jr. decided to leave out so many of Clark and Marty's children. Ellie was such an important part of this book, as was Nandry and Luke, and why they were left out of the movie is beyond my comprehension. This book has one of the most touching storylines of the series. Janette Oke covers the loss of a dear friend and a baby, Marty has to let go of her "baby" who leaves for school, but then gains another member to her brood. The puppies do make an appearance, but luckily, none stop breathing and require resuscitation. There was very little similarity between them but if you look at them separately, the book and the movie were both good. Personally, I rate the book higher.
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