That perspective is subtly woven throughout her novels.Īfter Love Comes Softly was published, Oke found her readers asking for more. Janette believes everyone goes through tough times-the key is to be prepared with a strong faith as the foundation from which decisions are made and difficult experiences are faced. Her readers of all ages and walks of life can identify with the everyday events and emotions of her characters. She reaches both religious and general markets, telling stories that transcend time and place.

This book was followed by more than 75 others. Her first novel, a prairie love story titled Love Comes Softly, was published by Bethany House in 1979. Though she yearned to be a published novelist, she devoted herself to being a wife and mother because, she says, 'there is no higher honor-that is my number-one priority.' She began serious writing when her children were entering their teens. Edward eventually became president of Mountain View Bible College and recently established a coalition of colleges that became Rocky Mountain Bible College.ĭuring her earliest years, Janette sensed the desire to write. After graduating from Mountain View Bible College in Canada where she met her husband, Edward, they pastored churches in Canada and the U.S., and they raised their family of four children, including twin boys, in both countries. Janette was born during the depression years to a Canadian prairie farmer and his wife, and she remembers her childhood as full of love and laughter and family love. She also writes engaging children's stories and inspiring gift books that warm the heart.

With over 23 million in sales, her historical novels portray the lives of early North American settlers from many walks of life and geographical settings. Janette Oke writes with a profound simplicity of what she knows best-real life, honest love, and lasting values.

Love's abiding joy book