Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers is based on the biblical story of Hosea and Gomer. One day, Michael Hosea was in town and saw a beautiful woman. He knew instantly that she would be his wife. He was shocked to discover that she was a prostitute. However, he does end up marrying her. She runs away several times but her husband keeps on coming back for her. I could certainly see the love of Jesus in him.
This is a remarkable book that is filled with bitter and beautiful emotion. I think that this book will end up being a classic. I will say that Redeeming Love is rated PG-13. Only adults and mature teens should read it. The subject matter it deals with is extremely heavy. But Redeeming Love is a book that can change lives.
I wasn't sure how the book would be at first because it shifts to different points of view in a single paragraph. However, this was necessary to get the full impact of the book. Francine Rivers has an enchanting, wondrous way of writing. I was drawn deep into the characters thoughts from the first page. The prologue is so very poignantly sad. Angel starts out as a sweet, beautiful child who is the victim of her circumstances. I loved Michael Hosea, who forgave and loved Angel no matter what she did to him.
This book is very sad, but it has a wonderful ending for anybody who wants to read it. However, be warned that your life could be changed by this book.
Francine Rivers is an extraordinary author who is fearless in dealing with any subject. If any book deserves a movie, then this one does. I could see every character so clearly in my mind that I was half surprised to come back to the book and find that it wasn't one. This retelling of the story of Hosea and Gomer is an awesome book that should not be ignored. If you think you can't forgive somebody because of something they did to you, then read Redeeming Love. It will give you a whole new perspective on life.