We have installed a lot of soapstone. It's one of our specialties. It's a great material. Durability is very similar to granite. It's non-porous so you don't need to seal it. It is easier to nick or scratch than granite, but it's very easy to take a bit of sandpaper and sand our any nicks. You can keep it a more pristine look by using a mineral oil every year, but many homeowners like the natural patina it develops over time. Soapstone usually falls in the middle of the granite price range. If you like the look and feel, go for it.

Soapstone counters are lovely. Note they tend to be dark and are of a matte finish. Therefore, your lighting requirements increase with this material.

Soapstone is great, and a very specific and unique look. It does build up a patina over time, which is part of its character. Just make sure you do your research before you decide on it, since it is a slightly softer material that scratches and dings easily make sure you are not going to be finicky about it and are ready to live with it. For that matter, whenever you choose stone, be sure you are prepared to live with its imperfections since it is natural. That's also what makes it beautiful!

Actually, there are plenty of very light gray soapstone's on the market. You don't necessarily have to get a dark one. Most of the picture on houzz seem to have soapstones that are treated to make them a darker or richer color, but you can leave it its natural, lighter, subdued color.