Unfailing Love (Book 3, When Hope Comes Calling)
Janette Oke, Laurel Oke Logan
The setting is Canada. Lillian Walsh and Grace Bennet have a home for children. The children all come from unfortunate situations, some worse than others. Three of the children have run away. Everyone in the area is concerned for the children’s safety especially when a mountain lion has been seen in the area where they think the children have been. The sisters are not only concerned for the missing children they are all concerned about the future of the home. Lillian must decide between her commitment to her sister and her fiance’ Walter’s dreams of a ranch. Ben Waldin would like to find her his family settled in Canada so he can give little Janie a place to call home. Lillian’s father returns with a new bride. Lillian struggles to accept the woman as a part of her father’s life.
The missing children are Lemuel, Freddie and Victoria. Lemuel left so that he could offer protection to Victoria. He doesn’t trust Freddie who often times gets carried away. Freddie has stolen something from someone close to him. Victoria is looking for relatives.
Lemuel is such a sweet child. At first glance Freddie appears to be all trouble but he has a change of heart before the end of the tale. Victoria is ruthless to the point of being a sociopath.
I am not sure what I expected when I began this tale. I have never read a book by Janette Oke and was eager to read this one. I have heard nothing but good concerning Ms Oke’s writings, but I was disappointed in this tale. It was slow moving. The book seemed to drag on until about halfway through. It took me that long to connect with the sisters. Walter rarely seemed to listen to what was on Lillian’s heart. She loved him but the children’s home was important to her. She was expected to give up everything for his dream. Yes, I know we all sacrifice for love, but I didn’t see him making sacrifices. Lemuel was the highlight of this tale. It was a blessing to see Freddie make an about face. Lemuel was willing to offer forgiveness and Freddie repented. That was the highlight of this book. I was surprised that Victoria was not redeemed in some way. I agree she was incorrigible, but I thought there would be some type of repentance. But not everyone accepts what is freely given. I will give another of MS Oke’s books a try.

This audio book was sent to me from Netgalley for review. I do not like the different voices of the narrator. I prefer the narrator uses ONE voice to tell the story. That being said, these are some of my favorite authors...don't miss this one...it is a can't put down book...I want to read it in print for the full effect of the characters...likable characters...sweet story...enjoy.