Simple Jess by Pamela Morsi is a historical romance set in Appalachia in the late 19th and early 20th century. The story follows Althea, a young widow with a son, who is pressured by her community to remarry. She hires Jess, a man with intellectual challenges but a kind heart, to help around her farm. As Althea gets to know Jess, she discovers his true nature and begins to see him as a potential partner. The book explores themes of love, acceptance, and community in the Ozarks, creating a heartwarming tale of overcoming obstacles and finding true love.

Characters:

The characters are well-developed, with Althea being a strong, independent woman and Jess a gentle, hardworking man often underestimated by society.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style balances emotional complexity and simplicity, particularly in reflecting the main character's mindset.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot revolves around a widow pressured to remarry who hires a simple-minded man to help her with her farm, leading to unexpected love.

Setting:

The setting is a rural Ozark community in the early 20th century, which shapes the characters' interactions and societal norms.

Pacing:

The pacing of the story is slow and methodical, enhancing character development and emotional authenticity.

Althea Winsloe was hopping mad. Her face was red, her teeth were clenched, and she was marching down the well-worn mountain path with such determined haste that she was completely unaware of the brigh...

Notes:

The main character, Jesse, is nicknamed Simple Jess due to disabilities caused by an umbilical cord issue at birth.

Althea Winsloe is a widowed mother trying to maintain her farm for her son without remarrying.

The novel is set in a tight-knit village in the Ozarks during the early 1900s.

Jesse is portrayed as a hard worker with a gentle nature, despite being treated as less capable by others.

Althea's resistance to remarriage is a central theme, highlighting her determination to protect her son from a stepfather's influence.

Jesse’s character challenges societal perceptions of disability, showing that he is capable and deserving of love.

The book's perspective often shifts to Jesse, providing insights into his thoughts and feelings without portraying him as an inspiration or victim.

The romance develops slowly amidst community pressures, making it relatable and realistic.

Characters are well-developed, including both protagonists and antagonists, enhancing the story's richness.

The novel steers clear of pity in the romantic relationship, showcasing genuine affection and partnership.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

The book contains content warnings for questionable consent in a side plot.

Has Romance?

The romance in Simple Jess is prominent, focusing on the developing relationship between Althea and Jess.

implied steam level

From The Publisher:

Given an ultimatum by her interfering neighbors-to find a husband by Christmas or have one selected for her-reluctant widow Althea Winsloe searches for a possible mate and finds herself drawn to Simple Jess, a sweet and gentle man of less-than-average intelligence.

Proclaimed "a refreshing new voice in romance" by Jude Deveraux, award-winning author Pamela Morsi has charmed millions with her touching stories of simple pleasures and heartfelt romances. Her novels, including Garters, Wild Oats and Something Shady, have won her rave reviews and loyal fans. Now, she presents an endearing story about what can happen when love turns up in the most unlikely place…

The last thing widow Althea Winsloe wanted to do was remarry. Unfortunately, her meddlesome mountain neighbors had other plans. So, one autumn night they banded together and gave Althea a shocking ultimatum: She was to find herself a husband by Christmas…or the town would do it for her! Althea knew she had her choice of any single man in Marrying Stone, Arkansas. Yet the only one she felt truly comfortable with was Simple Jess. Sweet, gentle, Jess wasn't as smart as your average man. But his tender manner stirred Althea's heart in ways she had never dreamed possible.

It would take a miracle to find a husband in Marrying Stone. But sometimes miracles are right under your nose … more

Ratings (8)

Incredible (4)
Loved It (2)
Liked It (1)
It Was OK (1)

Reader Stats (14):

Read It (9)
Want To Read (2)
Not Interested (3)

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