I didn’t realize I had missed book #2, so I was glad that author filled in me, Phillip was shot, and Grandma Shepherd died, ok, didn’t need to read. I have to say, I LOVED Yadda Yada books, thought 1st book in this series was a let down after those, but so glad I read this one. Gabby was a cry baby in the 1st book, this one, with her husband leaving her homeless in 1st book and her mother dying in book #2, I felt that she had a reason to be a cry baby. I was getting aggravated that she kept getting ahead of herself and God, but don't most of us do that? Think we know the timetable better than Him? And I was also glad that we got the low down on what else is happening in Yada Yada girls lives, as after what 7-8 books, they really do seem like old friends. I may even read Harry Bentleys books now too! (the men's version of the Yadda Yadas that Neta Jacksons husband wrote.) Having anxiously awaited this third installment in Neta Jackson’s House of Hope series, I couldn’t wait to see what happened with Gabby and her boys. Who Do I Lean On? did not disappoint at all! In fact, this was my favorite book in the series yet! Last year I read the first two books, Where Do I Go? and Who Do I Talk To? of Neta Jackson’s new series. Jackson is also the best-selling author of the Yada Yada Prayer Group series, which I hope to get through someday too (so many books, so little time…)What was refreshing about these books is that they are set in Chicago. Seems simple, but I had discovered these books after reading Jennifer Weiner and Emily Giffin (both of whom I love!) but most of their novels are set in New York City. After a while, the same city gets bored and a reader wants to read about a new location! So I very much welcomed the Chicago scenes. (And as it would be, I’ll be traveling to Chicago for the first time- albeit for business- in just two weeks!)I loved reading where Gabby is now after learning how to piece her life back together. I feel this book moved at a perfect pace, introducing new situations and scenarios and keeping the reader’s interest the entire time. Gabby’s faith is definitely stronger in this novel, as she learns to trust God more with her life and decisions. Funny how the tables turn when Philip asks her for a loan. It’s obvious how Gabby has grown as a woman and Christian based on how she handles that situation. Looking back, she was really all over the place in the first novel (who wouldn’t be, given the plot line) but she is absolutely more together in Who Do I Lean On? and it’s easy to root for her.Jackson wraps this one up nicely as she prepares readers for the finale, Who Is My Shelter?, coming March 2011. While it’s exciting to see how it will end, it will be sad to say goodbye. This is the first “series” of books I’ve read, and with the exception of Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers, my first experience with Christian fiction novels. Neta Jackson develops her characters in a way that makes you feel comfortable from the very first page. I would love to see this series turned into a movie because I can just picture the Manna House and the new Shepherds Fold recreational room! It’s been a fun journey with these characters.Gabby is much more “likable” this time around as she is finding her independence and holding her head high. This one can definitely make you think. When the rug is completely pulled out from under you, it’s important to turn to the One that knows everything about you (Psalm 139) and knows what the future holds. This series is a fantastic reminder of those things, and I really have enjoyed the fictional stories with the Christian theme. Jackson is an engaging, inspiring, and creative author who keeps readers coming back for more. (No wonder the Yada Yada Prayer Group series is on book #7!) While it might be anti-climactic to read that series now (some characters from that series make appearances in the House of Hope series), I still want to read them. And the good part is I won’t have to wait several months for the next one!If you like Christian fiction, I’d recommend this book. And even if you don’t like Christian fiction, but like an inspiring read with characters that will feel like your extended family, I recommend the House of Hope series. And if you read the first three books before March, we can all read the finale together! ;) I know I’m anxious to see what happens to Philip with his gambling debts and where he is now as well as what comes of the House of Hope. If you do read this series (or if you have already), please let me know your thoughts! Happy reading all!
What do You think about Who Do I Lean On? (2010)?
Too predictable. Seems like have read one in the series you have read them all. Very disappointed.
—swetha
I love this series...easy quick reads with good afterthoughts.
—tatyveli
didn't know it was a prayer group series....interesting.
—soccer107
I really did enjoy this series and the one before it.
—mrdere
