Could a soiled dove be cleansed, its past forgotten and light given to grace its way?
Francine Rivers’ Redeeming Love answers this profound question with a heart-wrenching and soul-stirring tale. Published in 1991, this novel reimagines the biblical story of Hosea and Gomer in a way that resonates deeply with readers.
From the first sentence, Shakespeare’s chilling line, “The prince of darkness is a gentleman,” sets the tone for the dark journey ahead, a reminder that not all that glitters is gold.
The story begins with Sarah, a girl who endures unimaginable pain after being rejected by her father and grandparents. Forced to wander the docks with her mother Mae, Sarah learns the harsh realities of life far too early as Mae resorts to selling herself for their survival. Sarah’s innocence is shattered by the presence of many different “uncles” in their little shack. But this presence means there’ll be food, a worm bed, and a small comfort that keeps her going.
However, more tragedy strikes when Mae dies, leaving Sarah in a world that has shown her nothing but cruelty. At just eight years old, she is sold into prostitution to the Duke, who strips her of her old identity and renames her Angela, teaching her nothing but how to look good and please men.
As the “soiled dove,” these experiences harden her, growing to despise men, reject love and be determined to take revenge on her father. She sleeps with him as revenge for rejecting her, only to disclose her identity to him afterwards.
As she grows older, Angel’s thoughts turn to escape. At 18, managing to break free from the Duke’s grip, only to fall into the clutches of another brothel owner, the Duchess, after which she meets Michael Hosea, a man who will change her life forever.
Michael, a farmer guided by a deep faith, sees beyond Angel’s hardened exterior and believes that God has called him to marry her. Despite her past, Michael vows to love her unconditionally and teaches her the value of self-worth. But Angel, scarred by years of abuse and mistrust, finds it difficult to accept his love. She runs away repeatedly, unable to reconcile her past with the kindness Michael offers.
Michael soon realises that his love alone cannot save Angel, whom he now calls Amanda. He lets her go, trusting that only God can heal her broken spirit. It is through this act of surrender that the story reaches its climax, mirroring the biblical narrative of Hosea the Prophet and Gomer. Like Gomer, Angel is a symbol of humanity—flawed, sinful, yet pursued by a relentless and redemptive love.
Redeeming Love is more than just a love story; it’s a powerful reminder of the transformative power of forgiveness and grace. For anyone struggling with their past, seeking redemption, or simply yearning for a story that speaks to the soul, this book is a must-read. Francine Rivers crafts a narrative that echoes the timeless truth that no one is beyond the reach of God’s love.
