Homespun Bride, by Jillian Hart

Review by Jen Nofziger

This book got my attention on the very first page, where I read: “For 60 years, Harlequin has been providing millions of women with pure reading pleasure. We hope you enjoy this great story!” Now, I don't know what “Harlequin romance” conjures up in your mind, but I will tell you, an eyebrow was raised a little when I read that little snippet! It appears Harlequin is in the “inspirational historical romance” business now. Who knew?!

So, with this rather intriguing information roaming around in the back of my mind, I started Homespun Bride by Jillian Hart. As you may have guessed, from its Harlequin beginnings, Homespun Bride is a romance; a mushy, sappy, predictable love story that I happened to find myself enjoying.

Jillian Hart writes a story that effortlessly whisks you off to another time and place. While there in the Montana Territory during the 1880's, you get to know Noelle. Noelle has lost just about everything: her parents, her eyesight, the love of her life, and the hope for a family of her own. But then her long lost love returns to town after ten years – and breaking her heart – and they both discover God's plans for each of them may not be what they expected.

There were a few things that I did not enjoy about this story, but they may only be applicable to me. A common plot in romantic fiction that makes me crazy is when the protagonist seems to slip into a martyr role, believing that she must make incredibly difficult, self-sacrificing decisions, thinking she knows what is best for someone else, whether or not she really knows what is best. I know it adds layers to the story, but I can find it tiring. Toward the end of the book, the author uses the word “darlin'” a gazillion times (give or take).  It was awkward and distracting, which probably seems nit-picky, but it really was annoying. Also (and I hope you read this book and get back to me, because I wonder if I am losing my mind), the author seems to switch perspectives in the story randomly, so sometimes I found myself a little confused.

In spite of these shortcomings, I thought the story was sweet and pleasant. I found the characters to be interesting and enjoyed spending some time with them. Their story was endearing and their hopes and obstacles were pleasant to share with them. In this book, love and determination triumph (surprise!) and all is well in the end.

It's not great literature.  It's not going to change your life, but if you have some time to snuggle up and be taken to another time and place by a (mostly) well written story where the characters will remind you of God's faithfulness, timing, and plans, this is a good book just for that!