Love Comes Softly is a 2003 romantic drama Western directed by Michael Landon Jr., based on the novel by Janette Oke. It is the first film in the Love Comes Softly series and follows a heartwarming story of love, loss, and faith set in the American frontier.

The film follows Marty Claridge (Katherine Heigl), a young woman traveling west with her husband Aaron Claridge in search of a better life. However, tragedy strikes when Aaron is killed in an accident, leaving Marty alone and stranded in an unfamiliar land.

With winter approaching and no way to return home, Marty is offered a marriage of convenience by Clark Davis (Dale Midkiff), a widowed farmer. Clark proposes that she stay with him through the winter, help care for his young daughter Missie (Skye McCole Bartusiak), and in the spring, she can leave if she wishes. Reluctantly, Marty accepts the offer, seeing it as her only means of survival.

At first, Marty struggles with her new life, feeling out of place in Clark’s modest home and missing her late husband. She also has difficulty bonding with Missie, who resents her presence. However, over time, Marty begins to adapt to farm life and finds comfort in Clark’s kindness and patience.
Clark, a deeply faithful and gentle man, teaches Marty the importance of faith, resilience, and love. Slowly, Marty and Missie form a close bond, and Marty starts to see Clark in a different light—not just as a protector but as a man capable of love.
As spring arrives, Marty realizes that she no longer wants to leave. She has grown to love Clark and Missie, and she finally accepts her new life on the frontier. The film ends with Marty and Clark embracing, signifying the beginning of a true love built on faith, trust, and healing.

Love Comes Softly is a heartfelt story about overcoming grief, finding love in unexpected places, and trusting in God’s plan. It was praised for its wholesome storytelling, strong performances, and emotional depth, becoming a beloved family-friendly romance. The film’s success led to a long-running Love Comes Softly series, continuing the stories of the Davis family.