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The Langston Family Saga #1
He Restores My Soul
When the Langston sisters return home for their mother's funeral, it's not in grief, but in relief.
Though Mahalia Langston was known as a gospel music pioneer among the church community, her daughters knew her as someone else altogether.
The three women hope that, along with their mother, they can finally bury the secrets that plagued their childhood.
But that's no longer an option when tragedy strikes and the sisters are forced to deal with the past they’ve spent their whole lives trying to forget.
With the help of a praying woman, the sisters begin to think emotional healing is a real possibility. Until, that is, they learn their mother had one final secret.
A secret so earth shattering, only the grace of God will help them get through it.
Though Mahalia Langston was known as a gospel music pioneer among the church community, her daughters knew her as someone else altogether.
The three women hope that, along with their mother, they can finally bury the secrets that plagued their childhood.
But that's no longer an option when tragedy strikes and the sisters are forced to deal with the past they’ve spent their whole lives trying to forget.
With the help of a praying woman, the sisters begin to think emotional healing is a real possibility. Until, that is, they learn their mother had one final secret.
A secret so earth shattering, only the grace of God will help them get through it.
139 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 22, 2015
204 people are currently reading
236 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
July 30, 2016
This book is one of three in a series that I have decided to review together. I usually do not do this but and I am often annoyed with series that compel you to immediately secure the next installment. However, in this case I am recommending that while the books could possibly stand alone, you will want to read all three. He Restores My Souls, This Sings My Soul and My Soul is Satisfied together present a well written story about a family of three sisters moving from a difficult childhood into the spotlight of fame (Book 1). The book opens at the funeral of their sainted mother to most people but a woman remembered as childhood terror to them. Each sister has coped with her past and the memories of their mother in a different way. Yet through it all they have supported each other in ways that will touch the heart of the reader. From that past emerges a startling secret that changes their lives and forces them to reconsider the ways they have coped in the past (book 2). Their is hope for recovery and a force that compels them to reexamine their view of their mother. But it is difficult to let go of long held anger. Tragedy forces the matter in the final book which is a moving view of family, the power of faith and fragility of forgiveness. This is a Christian series unlike many that I have read that are a little too heavy handed for my enjoyment. This series carefully weaves Christian wisdom, the language of faith-filled people and miracles into a well written narrative.
I have not read this author before but I will read and recommend her to my reading friends. This is a good book club series.
I have not read this author before but I will read and recommend her to my reading friends. This is a good book club series.
October 26, 2017
Loved it
There was a message for me. Man, I was blessed. The author is a great storyteller- the twist had me like OMG. Oh, did I mention I cried a lot lol
There was a message for me. Man, I was blessed. The author is a great storyteller- the twist had me like OMG. Oh, did I mention I cried a lot lol
March 19, 2019
ONCE I STARTED READING I DIDN'T WANT TO STOP NOR DID I WANT THIS BOOK TO END I'M ALL READY TO TAKE THE RIDE WITH THE LANGSTON FAMILY...
July 4, 2016
Couldn't put this book down
This was a great story that takes you through all emotions. You will cry, want to throw the book down and smile all at one time. I look forward to book 2.
This was a great story that takes you through all emotions. You will cry, want to throw the book down and smile all at one time. I look forward to book 2.
January 7, 2026
Not my usual reading material, but try new things and all that. Granted, as this book is inspirational fiction it isn't really directed at an atheist like me, but if I only read things written by people exactly like me I'd be reading a lot less. I still find it hard to separate belief from response, though. See, if it weren't for one thing this might be a three star read from me: if I don't appreciate the religious emphasis as much as the more intended audience might, it's still a well-told story that moves along at a decent pace, with sympathetic characters (all but the horrible mother, who's the antagonist no one is supposed to like). The three sisters, survivors of extreme child abuse, are all doing their best to support each other and I did enjoy that.
But when the most-abused of them is told, quite seriously, that her childhood prayers for help and safety were refused by God because he loved her, well, that's when I call bullshit. If a human man was fully aware of the horror of Kristina's life and did nothing, we'd be all for sending him to jail as an accessory to child abuse, and to call this choice not to act an expression of love? Yeah, fuck right off with that. My instinctive reaction to that particular conversation is so revolted that it dragged down the rest of the story for me.
But when the most-abused of them is told, quite seriously, that her childhood prayers for help and safety were refused by God because he loved her, well, that's when I call bullshit. If a human man was fully aware of the horror of Kristina's life and did nothing, we'd be all for sending him to jail as an accessory to child abuse, and to call this choice not to act an expression of love? Yeah, fuck right off with that. My instinctive reaction to that particular conversation is so revolted that it dragged down the rest of the story for me.
September 12, 2019
Being Restored - Pamela, Kristina and Tamia
The first book in the Langston Family Saga. How awful it must be for Pamela, Kristina and Tamia to attend their mother's funeral and hear praises being heaped upon her head when they alone knew the horrible truths about their mother, Mahalia. How could none of the good Christians have no clue to the abuses Mahalia inflicted on the girls.
The book dealt with how the Langston sister's endured the abuse by their mother and how they came through like pure gold. It dealt with the rawness of their emotions caused by a lifetime of that abuse and how they seemingly flourished away from the abuse. Still they had severe emotional problems that they dealt with until they allowed the Lord to restore their souls.
Even though this book revealed flaws in each of the Langston girls, it is not a stand-alone book. All books in the saga must be read to discover what happened in their lives. It's obvious that the next book in the series must be read as this one ended in a cliffhanger. It is worth reading the other two books.
The first book in the Langston Family Saga. How awful it must be for Pamela, Kristina and Tamia to attend their mother's funeral and hear praises being heaped upon her head when they alone knew the horrible truths about their mother, Mahalia. How could none of the good Christians have no clue to the abuses Mahalia inflicted on the girls.
The book dealt with how the Langston sister's endured the abuse by their mother and how they came through like pure gold. It dealt with the rawness of their emotions caused by a lifetime of that abuse and how they seemingly flourished away from the abuse. Still they had severe emotional problems that they dealt with until they allowed the Lord to restore their souls.
Even though this book revealed flaws in each of the Langston girls, it is not a stand-alone book. All books in the saga must be read to discover what happened in their lives. It's obvious that the next book in the series must be read as this one ended in a cliffhanger. It is worth reading the other two books.
January 23, 2019
WOW what a powerful book I haven't read a book like this in a long time and I must say that this is a good book that can be turn into a movie that how good it is man I just can't believe that these women have been threw so much in their life. Do to their mother it seems like the mother took all of her anger out on her kids and the kids who are now adults had to suffer from their past especially Kristina because what she went through you couldn't make it up but it just goes to show you that god works in misters ways because who would of thought that Kristina life would turn around. And as for Kristina it is a good thing that she have Pam in her life because it seems like Pam is the head of the family now and they all make their decision around Pam and pam do nothing but guide them in the right with nothing put positive but most of all these girls had a heck of a life what a good story this was.
August 16, 2018
“He Restores My Soul” was a perfectly told story of three sisters who endured painful abuse at the hands of their mother, including some events that were almost too tragic and traumatic to put into words. As a result, the three sisters each suffered from their own set of issues, but for one of them, the issues were causing her to swiftly lose control…
Kristina was a famous singer who, on the outside, appeared to have it all, but on the inside, was suffering from long held secrets that not only kept her awake at night, but haunted her through the day as well. She held on as long as she could, but then one day, her life began to take a drastic turn…
This story was smoothly portrayed. The author kept the reader interested and wanting to know what would happen next. I am definitely interested in reading Part 2!
Kristina was a famous singer who, on the outside, appeared to have it all, but on the inside, was suffering from long held secrets that not only kept her awake at night, but haunted her through the day as well. She held on as long as she could, but then one day, her life began to take a drastic turn…
This story was smoothly portrayed. The author kept the reader interested and wanting to know what would happen next. I am definitely interested in reading Part 2!
September 22, 2019
First time reading
I use reading as therapy and my current favorite author was in process of writing a new book. I knew I needed something to keep me sane. I typed in google African American Christian authors and It was then I came across this book. I’m so lost at this point of my life, trying to lean on God’s understanding and not my own; and living day to day which is hard. But, reading this book and allowing it to minister to me has lightened my load. Definitely would recommend this book to anyone that is holding secrets, hindering their future and lack trusting God. You will not be disappointed.
I use reading as therapy and my current favorite author was in process of writing a new book. I knew I needed something to keep me sane. I typed in google African American Christian authors and It was then I came across this book. I’m so lost at this point of my life, trying to lean on God’s understanding and not my own; and living day to day which is hard. But, reading this book and allowing it to minister to me has lightened my load. Definitely would recommend this book to anyone that is holding secrets, hindering their future and lack trusting God. You will not be disappointed.
May 25, 2017
Loaded with lots of emotionally charged subjects. A deep read filled with lots of inspirational scripture that spoke to me. I found myself opening my Bible App to read, meditate and highlight of I hadnt already. Really good Christian Fiction.
I gave it a 4 because I felt that although this portion of the story is sort of wrapped up, it really wasn't. I understand that it's purpose is to entice readers to read the next book, but I prefer a characters complete story in one book and if they appear in the series again, it's with updates, NOT more of the story from the previous book.
I gave it a 4 because I felt that although this portion of the story is sort of wrapped up, it really wasn't. I understand that it's purpose is to entice readers to read the next book, but I prefer a characters complete story in one book and if they appear in the series again, it's with updates, NOT more of the story from the previous book.
March 14, 2018
I truly enjoyed reading this book. As with most books that I read I always try to figure out what the outcome will be for the key characters in the book. While it was dishearting to read what the sister endured at the hands of their mother. I was estatic to learn that the mother did not bury the baby, but in fact she cared for him by making sure that he was provided for. However, the way she went about the whole thing is very disturbing. No mother should treat their children that way under any circumstances.
October 24, 2018
BEAUTIFUL, SOUL-STIRRING, and HEART-WARMING.🙏💜
In each of LaShonda's stories, there is a message AND a lesson to be Learned.👌 The writing style, the editing, the storylines-just EVERYTHING is Superb, when reading a LaShonda Bowman book.......they are THAT Good and Fulfilling!👏👏👏👏 I Am so Loving this series, thus far and am Anxiously ready for the next installment *Book 2*!😘😘😘😘 It is a True BLESSING, when diving in & Indulging in one (1) of her Wonderful stories.👍🏼 AWESOME Work, Miss Bowman and 'Thank You'.......💜💜💜💜💜
In each of LaShonda's stories, there is a message AND a lesson to be Learned.👌 The writing style, the editing, the storylines-just EVERYTHING is Superb, when reading a LaShonda Bowman book.......they are THAT Good and Fulfilling!👏👏👏👏 I Am so Loving this series, thus far and am Anxiously ready for the next installment *Book 2*!😘😘😘😘 It is a True BLESSING, when diving in & Indulging in one (1) of her Wonderful stories.👍🏼 AWESOME Work, Miss Bowman and 'Thank You'.......💜💜💜💜💜
September 18, 2017
Secrets and lies
People who are famous often live with one persona in public and other one, completely different, in private. As this book unfolds, you can clearly see the difference between the public face and the private life.
I really enjoyed this book. It was tough to read sometimes, because it got very gritty, but did tell a believable story. I wasn't ready for it to end. I will definitely read more books in this series and by this author.
People who are famous often live with one persona in public and other one, completely different, in private. As this book unfolds, you can clearly see the difference between the public face and the private life.
I really enjoyed this book. It was tough to read sometimes, because it got very gritty, but did tell a believable story. I wasn't ready for it to end. I will definitely read more books in this series and by this author.
February 19, 2017
A Blessed Read!
L. Bowman you've captured a storyline and characters that cross boundaries that many dare not to do. I can't imagine living the life of Pam, Tamia and Kristina. I'm buying book 2 as I rate this and if it's anything like this one, it will deserve a 5 star rating as well!
L. Bowman you've captured a storyline and characters that cross boundaries that many dare not to do. I can't imagine living the life of Pam, Tamia and Kristina. I'm buying book 2 as I rate this and if it's anything like this one, it will deserve a 5 star rating as well!
October 1, 2017
Faith forward
The use of the biblical scriptures was on point.
The development of the story although short didn't leave empty space. Every chapter walked one to a nice conclusion. One's Life is never just your journey but a journey for each person who loves you. Look forward to book 2.
The use of the biblical scriptures was on point.
The development of the story although short didn't leave empty space. Every chapter walked one to a nice conclusion. One's Life is never just your journey but a journey for each person who loves you. Look forward to book 2.
May 22, 2018
Reminder of keeping Faith
This book was an amazing book to read of the things the sisters went through and seeing how they managed to survive. This book reminds you that God is the answer and He will see you through any obstacle. I enjoyed reading this book and look forward to book 2!
This book was an amazing book to read of the things the sisters went through and seeing how they managed to survive. This book reminds you that God is the answer and He will see you through any obstacle. I enjoyed reading this book and look forward to book 2!
November 21, 2018
The fruit of forgiveness
This was a very touching story off the entanglement unforgiveness had on our lives. It also demonstrates the prevailing power of forgiveness when we step out of the way and allow God to apply the restorative ointment of his love to our hurt. The end results is...the blossoming fruit of forgiveness.
This was a very touching story off the entanglement unforgiveness had on our lives. It also demonstrates the prevailing power of forgiveness when we step out of the way and allow God to apply the restorative ointment of his love to our hurt. The end results is...the blossoming fruit of forgiveness.
July 17, 2017
A good read for inspirational fiction
Initially I was thinking I wasn't going to finish this but after a few chapters I got more involved into the characters different layers and ended up finishing in two days.
Initially I was thinking I wasn't going to finish this but after a few chapters I got more involved into the characters different layers and ended up finishing in two days.
October 6, 2017
Loved It
This story of the Langston Family has really touched my soul! No family is perfect and issues will arise but with God's love, grace and mercy and also Langston sisters enciuraging and supporting one another they were able to make it through
This story of the Langston Family has really touched my soul! No family is perfect and issues will arise but with God's love, grace and mercy and also Langston sisters enciuraging and supporting one another they were able to make it through
January 11, 2018
I've had this book on my shelf for quite a while & I'm glad I finally read it. Although these sisters experienced their own grief due to their mother's actions, my heart especially went out to Katrina & what she endured. This story was a good example of redemption and the power of God. Looking forward to reading the next book in this series
February 26, 2022
hooked from the very beginning
This book is really good!! I did not want to put the book down. An easy read!! Took me on an emotional roller coaster!! Can’t wait to read the second book.
This book is really good!! I did not want to put the book down. An easy read!! Took me on an emotional roller coaster!! Can’t wait to read the second book.
November 27, 2016
Touching
This was a great read...full of love and hope. I'm looking forward to reading books 2 and 3. The Langston Family is full of drama.
This was a great read...full of love and hope. I'm looking forward to reading books 2 and 3. The Langston Family is full of drama.
January 22, 2017
Must read!!
This book is Definitely a page turner! Finished reading in two hours! On to book 2.... love reading good books!
This book is Definitely a page turner! Finished reading in two hours! On to book 2.... love reading good books!
May 4, 2017
Very good
This book was very good you would be surprised at how many people live with those type of secrets and pain
This book was very good you would be surprised at how many people live with those type of secrets and pain
June 14, 2017
It also shows that some
This story shares the pain behind the smiles, unresolved secretes and the love that holds families together through it with faith.
This story shares the pain behind the smiles, unresolved secretes and the love that holds families together through it with faith.
September 19, 2017
Good read
I liked it, a bit predictable, but good read. Some grammatical errors and I got confused at some point, but I didn't put it down, I wanted to keep reading.
I liked it, a bit predictable, but good read. Some grammatical errors and I got confused at some point, but I didn't put it down, I wanted to keep reading.
February 27, 2019
I could not put the book down
The twists and turns were awesome. After I take this quick nap, I’m going to start on the second book in this series. Oh snap I can’t wait!!!
The twists and turns were awesome. After I take this quick nap, I’m going to start on the second book in this series. Oh snap I can’t wait!!!
March 7, 2019
Good read!
It’s sad to think this story could be someone’s real life! I love the bond the sisters had. Im it was definitely a great read
It’s sad to think this story could be someone’s real life! I love the bond the sisters had. Im it was definitely a great read
April 20, 2019
Great Reading
Destruction with Redemption. This first book has both can’t wait to read the next one. Truly the Love of Jesus
Destruction with Redemption. This first book has both can’t wait to read the next one. Truly the Love of Jesus
February 11, 2020
Great second chance story
Burdens can be heavy we often need a reminder that we are in the valley alone.I have to read the next book!
Burdens can be heavy we often need a reminder that we are in the valley alone.I have to read the next book!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews