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Coming Home #3

Hungry for Home

After a troubling encounter with a pregnant teen, Sheila Peterson-Brooks hurries from the crisis pregnancy center into the frigid Minnesota winter where she is mugged and left for dead. After a frantic search, Richard, her husband, finds her, and the police quickly nab the mugger …A hungry, homeless teen.The brother of the pregnant girl Sheila had just counseled.The girl pleads for her brother, and Sheila and Richard choose not to press charges. Instead, they open their home to the boy, a move that could cost them their possessions, and their hearts.And, in the process, teach them the true meaning of home.

362 pages, Paperback

First published September 15, 2015

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About the author

Brenda S. Anderson

35 books406 followers
Brenda S. Anderson writes authentic and gritty life-affirming fiction that shows God at work in people’s messy lives. She is a founding member of the award-winning, nontraditional publishing company, The Mosaic Collection. When not writing, she enjoys live sports and theater, walking along the shores of Lake Superior, and sharing hot cocoa with friends and family. She lives near Minneapolis with her newly retired husband and their twin mischievous kitties, Mauer and Morneau.

Readers can learn more about Brenda S. Anderson at www.brendaandersonbooks.com

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5 stars
156 (81%)
4 stars
29 (15%)
3 stars
6 (3%)
2 stars
0 (0%)
1 star
0 (0%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
387 reviews
September 6, 2019
What does family mean..

I have truly enjoyed spending time with Sheila and Richard! In this book, they really learn what and who family is and the makeup of one. From unplanned pregnancy to homeless teens, this brings a few modern issues to the forefront!
570 reviews3 followers
July 19, 2019
This has been a great journey.

This being the last book about all these interesting characters from the Coming Home series in a little sad. These stories have some of the great ones l have read. Some I have read twice. The messages and the faith shared has been a blessing.
43 reviews
February 18, 2018
Gods gentle ever-loving hand

Thank you for an accurate insightful and wonderful book I would highly recommend this to anyone interested in life's ups and downs and God's gentle hand on all of it
Profile Image for Julia.
3,262 reviews107 followers
September 17, 2015
Hungry For Home by Brenda Anderson is the third and final book in the Coming Home series. It can also be read as a stand-alone. It was a cracking end to the series, and a very compulsive read. I felt like I was saying goodbye to dear friends as opposed to finishing a novel.
Brenda Anderson clearly demonstrates her passion for some of today's teenager's problems. The novel deals with the themes of teenage homelessness which may lead to crime for desperate and hungry youngsters. As well as teenage pregnancy and the resulting pressures and problems that are associated with that. She opens the eyes of the reader to these needs in society which pricks ones conscience as the reader wonders what they can do to help.
Hungry For Home also deals with the theme of families. Some people are fortunate to be born into a loving family, others are not. Various problems may exist within blood families, but a family does not have to be made up of blood relatives. A family can be made up of people who love each other, care for each other, and who open up their homes and their hearts to others. Brenda Anderson shows families within the novel reaching out and offering grace to people who at first glance may seem undeserving. Within God's family we are all offered grace, and as members of God's family we are to never judge one another but we must dispense love and grace at all times. No-one is more or less deserving than anyone else. We are all equal.
Linked to the theme of family is the theme of searching for a home and a place to belong. Living in a house with other people is not what constitutes a home. A home is the place where one feels loved, and it does not matter whether that is a hovel or a mansion.
I love the fact that within the novel, characters pray before making decisions. They put God first, and do life in conjunction with Him. For anyone who has read the previous novels, it is a real treat to watch the characters progress in their faith journey. Brenda Anderson's characters are very realistic and likeable. Her portrayal of toddler Matthew is absolutely delightful.
If you have never read a novel by Brenda Anderson, then you are missing out. I cannot get enough of her novels, and I am certainly hoping that there will be plenty more in the pipeline.
Profile Image for Sherry Ledet.
254 reviews7 followers
April 4, 2019
From Chain of Mercy, to Memory Box Secrets, to Hungry for Home Brenda Anderson has written a series that is a page turner.
Richard and Sheila are the couple who made it happen. From the day that Sheila met her company's janitor, the day Richard left his high rise New York position to become that Janitor, they couldn't stay away from either other. In Chain of Mercy tough, determined to succeed Sheila could not believe she was attracted to the janitor, or that he avoided her every attempt to seduce him. Memory Box Secrets reveals them learning hidden secrets that could tear them apart. In Hungry for Home they both learn what the true meaning of Home is.
God is in every aspect of this couple's journey and the family and friends in their lives. It is a perfect read. For those who love a good series you must not miss it.
Profile Image for Ann.
731 reviews22 followers
September 19, 2015
This is another book from this author that I would give more than 5 stars if I could. This is the final book in the Coming Home Series, and as I finished this one I felt like I was saying goodbye to old friends. This book can be read as a standalone, but to really get all of Richard and Sheila's story, you will want to read the first two books in the series. This is a beautiful book about love and what true forgiveness really is. Through the story the author also brings brings to light the issue of plight of youth that are on the streets without a home and what a difference bringing love into their lives can make I was given a copy of this book in return for an honest review, and this is another book by this author that I definitely recommend.
1,177 reviews16 followers
September 21, 2015
The homeless and children in foster care is something Richard and Shelia are passionate about. I really enjoyed this story of compassion and giving of yourself. I liked the caring families, their faith and the way this book covered how widespread the young and homeless was. The love and family life of this couple has been interesting to watch develop. I really liked this story, I find that Brenda Anderson writes from the heart and this book will touch your heart.
171 reviews2 followers
March 18, 2021
I so enjoyed these stories. Trying to live a Christian life and raise our family to be Christ like is a constant battle, we live in a broken world. Brenda Anderson, addressed issues that many consider taboo. Just because we don’t speak out about sexuality, drugs, immoral behavior, anger, rejection, abortion, broken families... doesn’t make me t go away! It will destroy without Grace and Mercy, forgiveness & God. Thank You Brenda Anderson for speaking out 💕❤️💕
Profile Image for Margaret Lawton.
134 reviews3 followers
December 19, 2018
I loved, loved, loved this book! I cheered for all the characters and cried as they went through the struggles of life. It was a blessing to see how they relied on God to guide them. I felt like they were real people because Brenda made them so realistic. This story deals in a compassionate way with so many real life issues. Infertility, pro life choices, following God's leading, single parenting while presenting the availability of God to work through imperfect people to help the ones He places in our paths! The only drawback is that if you have not read the first books in the series, you are a little lost at the very beginning. I was blessed with a complimentary copy of this story, but have shared my truthful honest opinion without any compulsion from the author!
1,098 reviews25 followers
December 1, 2018
Hungry for Home is a well-written Christian fiction book. I loved all of the main characters, especially the toddler, Matthew, and the grandfather. God's love and mercy is received by the main characters who then show that mercy and grace to others in some challenging situations. The plot has twists and turns and moves at a good pace. The romances in this book are between husbands and wives. There is an extremely satisfying resolution. I received an ARC. I chose to write a review and share my opinion of this wonderful book.
Profile Image for Wendy Huddler.
159 reviews3 followers
November 30, 2018
Another great book by Brenda S. Anderson.
Imagine finding out you had a little boy that you knew nothing about and he is going to spend 2 weeks with you. Next add in a homeless boy who is living in his car and injured your wife. These are only 2 of the things that happen in this book. Read it and find out the many others things that happen to this couple and how leaning on God can help you handle it.
When you are done with this book, I know you will be checking out her other books.
4 reviews
July 26, 2018
Great

Really enjoyed this series of book. Story flowed and I kept wanting to read just one more page. Hated to see it end
Profile Image for Michelle Kaderly Welsh.
187 reviews10 followers
September 5, 2015
If you enjoy the genre, Women’s Fiction, then I’d like to recommend Hungry for Home by Brenda S. Anderson, the final book in the Coming Home Series.

I’ve never been homeless like Austin, nor have I been as rich as Richard and Shelia, but through Hungry for Home, I got a taste of each, and was also able to feel what it might be like to be in the shoes of each. I wrestled with some of their choices, rejoiced in the good news, and wanted to advise them in their tough choices. With fiction, you can immerse yourself in a situation to see how you might react. In this story, there were actions they took that I found I’d be cautious, even resistant in, which got me thinking about truly faith-filled actions. Fiction sometimes allows readers to test their bravery through the situations cast on the page, some ideal, some not so ideal.

I wanted to keep reading to find out how it would turn out leading to a few late nights. I think this is a good indication of a worthy read. There were shockers/unexpected turns.

I like how Anderson brings up the sacrifices that come with huge promotions, and how these affect the spouse and children. So often people gloss over these issues making it seem like you can have it all, which is totally not true. Someone or something loses or is lost in the choices we make. I like that Anderson isn’t afraid to tell the truth about real issues and the consequences that can follow.

Anderson also does an excellent job of capturing on the page a number of ranges of emotion.

I also appreciate how she weaves faith into her story and that her characters react realistically to crises. There was only one decision that Richard made that I thought was hasty and maybe not as realistic because of the time span involved.

I liked following the story through the four novels. I believe this was her best novel to date.

I received this book free of charge from the publisher, but this review consists of my honest opinions, and I have not been influenced in any way by the author or the publisher.
20 reviews
December 2, 2020
Brenda S Anderson sure know how to write a story that makes you think how you should view God. I loved this story so much that I would love all to read it.
Profile Image for Cheri Swalwell.
Author 73 books62 followers
December 22, 2015
Hungry for Home is the last book in the Coming Home Series. I had mixed emotions reading it. I have grown to fall in love with the Brooks family and I knew when it was over, I wouldn’t get to read more about them. But at the same time, I’ve grown to love them so much, I couldn’t wait to read more.
This book didn’t disappoint. It picked right up where the last one ended and I was immediately transported back into the family. I loved every single chapter and ended up reading it in one day, something I haven’t done in ages because I didn’t want to put it down. I love Sheila, Richard, Sheila’s parents, Matthew, Austin, Brittany, and the whole family. It was an amazing story and one I didn’t want to end. In fact, it hasn’t ended because I’m still thinking about them long after I read “The End.”
The book had many different layers and stories within the stories. I was entertained, I cried, laughed, thought, and was inspired and challenged and encouraged. It had all the elements of a great story because it touched me deeply and personally. I love Ms. Anderson’s style of writing and how she creates such believable characters - people who are humanly flawed yet keep looking to God to help them change more into his image daily.
I’m sad I don’t have any more in this series to look forward to, but I’m excited to think about what other series I will get to read from this amazing author. Great book - you will want to read the whole Coming Home series and have a chance to fall in love with the Brooks family like I did.

Profile Image for Sarah Harden.
223 reviews90 followers
September 11, 2015
God is “into” recycling.

What a wonderful illustration, and what an amazing conclusion to the Coming Home series!

God takes the trash of this world (for that is what we are, without Him) and recycles it into beautiful new creations. Regardless of what we were before, God can “recycle” us for His purposes.

Hungry for Home is a heart-tugging story. The characters are so genuine, and their circumstances so trying, you can’t help but love them and want to see things work out for them. From homelessness and hunger to teen pregnancy and drug abuse, Brenda Anderson doesn’t shy away from the realities of the world around us. Her characters see God working in and through their situations in a way that offers hope to each reader, that He is able to do the same in each of our lives as well.

Hungry for Home is the fourth book in the Coming Home series, and I am sad to see these characters’ stories end. It could probably be read as a stand-alone, but the story is much deeper when you understand the background from the previous stories. If you haven’t read them, start at the beginning. You won’t be sorry! :)

(This review was first published on my blog -- sarahruut.com. I received a complimentary copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review. The thoughts expressed here are entirely my own.)
Profile Image for Linda Rainey.
2,348 reviews22 followers
September 3, 2015
Grab a big box of tissues before you start Hungry for Home.
My heart is heavy when I read the last word in the book It was saying goodbye to old friends.
This is the final novel in the Coming Home series. You could read it as a stand alone but to give justice to the characters you need to read the entire series.
Richard and Sheila's story is finished in this book and I cried wanting more.
Dare you ask an author to pray about continuing a series? Well I am !!!
I loved every character and how they interacted. Matt, Richard's son is precious.
The true meaning of home is demonstrated in bringing to light the plight of homeless youth in this country.
We need to help youth reach their full potential because they are our future leaders.
If I could give a rating more than 5 ,I would.
Thank you for the privilege of reviewing this series and giving me advance copies in exchange for my honest opinion.
4,232 reviews1,772 followers
September 22, 2015
A resounding conclusion to the Coming Home series. Anderson tackles tough issues in this realistic family drama. Sheila and Richard are back, striving to create a home for a patchwork kind of family. Their happily ever after isn't turning out exactly how they'd planned. Sheila's observation sums it up rather well: "One thing she'd learned since becoming a Christian nearly two years ago was that when God threw plot twists into their lives, it meant He was up to something."

Those plot twists are surprising. Some touching, some poignant, some heartbreaking. But all eventually lead towards hope and resolution. Followers of the Coming Home series will delight in this final chapter of the Brooks family.
Author 2 books25 followers
October 23, 2015
The first book I ever read by BRENDA S ANDERSON was CHAIN OF MERCY, about Richard Brooks. So when I spotted
HUNGRY FOR HOME and discovered it was a continuance of Richards story, I had to have it. CHAIR OF MERCY remains my favorite BRENDA S ANDERSON books, it's that good. .

I could not get over the wonderful cover, and the great titles. MS ANDERSON has a way of writing as if you were involved in characters everyday life.

Richard Brooks wife is run down in an ally and robed. Though Richard wants to press charges against the young man who did this to his wife, Sheila has other ideas.

HUNGRY FOR HOME is a heartfelt story. A lesson in life of what’s really important.

*Please see my profile for more information on this review.
Profile Image for Bhriv.
604 reviews27 followers
September 19, 2015


The story of Richard and Sheila Brooks continues. You would never know them from how they started out in book 1. Now Richard is a papa to Matthew and Sheila has been offered the job as COO of her company...her dream job. A read that keeps you hooked to see how they respond to God's prompting and not only make their lives better, but also give opportunity for many others lives to be touched by being a light to the world. Yet another great read. I was gifted this book in exchange for my honest review.
Profile Image for Connie.
412 reviews2 followers
September 14, 2015
I'm sad to see this series end. The Brooks Family stories have been a wonderful set of books. The stories have been believable and challenging to my own faith. Like the others, this book drips mercy and grace like honey wrung from a honeycomb. Often in my own faith life, though I know that I am a sinner, I tend to forget the forgiveness part for others. Great story, great series, and I can see a bunch of opportunity for the characters to spin off their own series. Brenda, just saying!!!!
6,252 reviews
September 20, 2015
Hungry for Home is the third installment of the Coming Home series and continues Sheila and Richard's story. What a wonderful story it is! Brenda S Anderson really knows how to write a true to life book with all of the emotions attached. I really enjoyed these characters and have felt they are part of my family. This to me shows great talent for an author. After reading this book and the others in the series, I will most definitely be looking for more by her.
Fabulous book!
5 plus stars.
Profile Image for Joyful.
564 reviews
September 23, 2015
This Christian romance is the final book in the Coming Home Series, and I was sad to see this series end.. This book can be read as a standalone, but i recommend reading the other books in the series. The plot of this book is about love, true forgiveness, And the issue of homeless youth and what a difference bringing love into their lives can make in their lives. I was given a copy of this book in return for an honest review. I definitely recommend this book and author.
117 reviews1 follower
October 3, 2015
Excellent end to the series

Love Brenda's writing. The stories are real as are the people in them. While this was a great ending I will miss this family of characters. How about a book about Austin and/or Brittany? Keep writing and I'll keep reading.
1 review
Read
July 13, 2016
Amazing

I loved going along the journey with the Brookes family. The story is well-written with complex characters. As always the author did a great job putting unpredictable twists and bringing everything back to faith and family.
78 reviews
May 9, 2019
A wonderful ending to this series, God is good!

I have so enjoyed all the books in this series! With lots of prayer and open, and loving hearts God has led this family to fulfill so many dreams and kept their love strong.
1,366 reviews3 followers
December 31, 2018
Fantastic Book

Great series. I enjoyed reading all the books in this series. I recommend you read these books. You will definitely get a blessing.
Profile Image for Donna Kale.
1,389 reviews12 followers
February 21, 2019
Brenda Anderson could keep this series going forever, very good clean and fun series!
Profile Image for Janet.
692 reviews3 followers
February 28, 2020
Sad to finish the last book in this series. Really enjoyed getting to know Sheila, Richard and their families.
1,066 reviews9 followers
August 30, 2024
The last book in the series - minus the prequel - has big changes for everyone. Sheila is volunteering at Vivant crisis pregnancy center when a teen in foster care comes in, scared to tell her new, and very nice, foster parents, an older couple looking to mentor only teens, not younger children with whom they may be unable to keep up. Will they call CPS and send the girl away, or can they make room in their hearts for the girl and her unborn child, a child conceived when another foster brother in her previous home sexually abused her? And what about her brother, who aged out of the system quickly, before he could get his high school diploma, and thus is unemployable, esp. with no fixed address?
Doran, who sired a child with Meghan, is seriously pursuing her, but does she want him when she is dating a nice guy who has no problem with her being pregnant? And will the pair find the courage not to abort, but to let the child live?
Marcis's eldest, Nathan, has given them trouble, but seems to have forsaken being trouble. But is his younger brother Josh seeking attention because he has been easy-going, a middle child who has made no waves, not the eldest and not their youngest daughter, the diva? Or is the problem more complex?
Sharing joint custody of his child over 1000 miles is breaking Richard's heart. Is there a solution?
Are Richard and Sheila called to minister to homeless teens who are at risk for a life of crime? Or should they keep trying for a baby of their own? The big house, expanded for their family, now seems empty with Samuel dying shortly after birth and Matthew only there on rare occasions. What is God leading them to do?
Read for the answers to all these questions and take another ride on the faith train, run by God, and find out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews