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Church Folk
Theophilus Henry Simmons is young, single, sexy, and just about the finest black man any wishful mother and daughter have ever seen in Charleston, Mississippi. He's also a pastor. And when he starts courting the quiet, homespun Essie Lee Lane-and she accepts his marriage proposal-a few of the church folk decide to teach Essie what it really means to be a pastor's wife, and show her how little she knows about them.
But as Theophilus gains prominence in his denomination, Essie evolves from a mousy parishioner into an independent and Godly woman. Now sporting an afro and driving her new purple Cadillac, Essie teaches the church folk what it really means to stand by your man-and your beliefs.
But as Theophilus gains prominence in his denomination, Essie evolves from a mousy parishioner into an independent and Godly woman. Now sporting an afro and driving her new purple Cadillac, Essie teaches the church folk what it really means to stand by your man-and your beliefs.
384 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2001
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August 22, 2011
Church Folk is the first installment in a two book series, which is centered within African American Baptist churches, and tells the story of an up and coming young male pastor, Theophilus Simmons, and his journey to finding love, as well as a notable place within the arduous members of his denomination.
The time period is 1960, and the prologue introduces readers to the main character, the deliciously tall, dark and handsome Theophilus Simmons, as he struggles with his main weakness, women. As an upcoming preacher in theological seminary school, Theophilus is aware of his weakness, and is convicted in his spirit to remove all temptations that could dim his promising career and calling in life as a minister. His main temptation is Glodean Benson, the vivacious and conniving woman, who is known around town as having a bodacious body with intoxicating loving. The kind that could easily make any man forget his status and position in life. When Theophilus breaks things off with Glodean, she plots to take revenge on him when he least expects it.
Church Folk opens in 1961, when Theophilus has graduated seminary school and is the head pastor of a church in Memphis, Tennessee. It is during his visit as a guest preacher in a revival in Mississippi, that he meets a radiantly beautiful woman. Essie Lee Lane encompasses not only a pretty face, but has an alluringly well-figured body to match. Essie had brains and beauty, and is not on the prowl to scoop up a preacher man, like the numerous women plotting to entice the attention of a preacher during the week of revivals. Essie’s level of grace and moral effortlessly grabs the attention of Theophilus, which begins the blossoming of a love that will be tested through the thread of lies and schemes of several churchwomen.
Author Michele Andrea Bowen does a fair job of depicting a lighthearted comical satire that addresses rather controversial aspects of the black church, which includes premarital sex, hypocritical ministers, and financial laundering. Although Bowen seems to address different issues within the church, she did not depicting the societal implications during the period of time that the book was written. Church Folk is written in the time period of 1961 and 1962, a time when African Americans, especially within the black church, where greatly involved in the Movement. Bowen focused a great deal of the book on portraying petty dramatic occurrences within the church, but did not reference any participation of the black church during the Civil Rights Movement.
Although Bowen mentioned numerously to the Civil Rights Movement taking place, not once did she involve any of the characters in the activities of the Movement. This is a huge over look, being that the novel takes place in the heart of the movement, the South. Church Folk had several instances of an amusing tone, with several serious moments included to highlight the controversial subjects being addressed. I believe that Bowen had numerous opportunities to include some characters in the Movement, and failed to do so. The construction of an entire chapter on the participation of the members in the Movement may not have been needed, however a mere mention would have been appropriate.
Furthermore, Church Folk is a rather fair quick read that does not fall short of entertaining the reader. One will readily find certain events humorous and even relatable to the actual events within the church. Aside from a few imperfections, this book is a pretty delightful read.
The time period is 1960, and the prologue introduces readers to the main character, the deliciously tall, dark and handsome Theophilus Simmons, as he struggles with his main weakness, women. As an upcoming preacher in theological seminary school, Theophilus is aware of his weakness, and is convicted in his spirit to remove all temptations that could dim his promising career and calling in life as a minister. His main temptation is Glodean Benson, the vivacious and conniving woman, who is known around town as having a bodacious body with intoxicating loving. The kind that could easily make any man forget his status and position in life. When Theophilus breaks things off with Glodean, she plots to take revenge on him when he least expects it.
Church Folk opens in 1961, when Theophilus has graduated seminary school and is the head pastor of a church in Memphis, Tennessee. It is during his visit as a guest preacher in a revival in Mississippi, that he meets a radiantly beautiful woman. Essie Lee Lane encompasses not only a pretty face, but has an alluringly well-figured body to match. Essie had brains and beauty, and is not on the prowl to scoop up a preacher man, like the numerous women plotting to entice the attention of a preacher during the week of revivals. Essie’s level of grace and moral effortlessly grabs the attention of Theophilus, which begins the blossoming of a love that will be tested through the thread of lies and schemes of several churchwomen.
Author Michele Andrea Bowen does a fair job of depicting a lighthearted comical satire that addresses rather controversial aspects of the black church, which includes premarital sex, hypocritical ministers, and financial laundering. Although Bowen seems to address different issues within the church, she did not depicting the societal implications during the period of time that the book was written. Church Folk is written in the time period of 1961 and 1962, a time when African Americans, especially within the black church, where greatly involved in the Movement. Bowen focused a great deal of the book on portraying petty dramatic occurrences within the church, but did not reference any participation of the black church during the Civil Rights Movement.
Although Bowen mentioned numerously to the Civil Rights Movement taking place, not once did she involve any of the characters in the activities of the Movement. This is a huge over look, being that the novel takes place in the heart of the movement, the South. Church Folk had several instances of an amusing tone, with several serious moments included to highlight the controversial subjects being addressed. I believe that Bowen had numerous opportunities to include some characters in the Movement, and failed to do so. The construction of an entire chapter on the participation of the members in the Movement may not have been needed, however a mere mention would have been appropriate.
Furthermore, Church Folk is a rather fair quick read that does not fall short of entertaining the reader. One will readily find certain events humorous and even relatable to the actual events within the church. Aside from a few imperfections, this book is a pretty delightful read.
September 6, 2019
This is a challenging book to review. This is a honest look at the Southern Negro Church set in 1960s. The story begins with Reverend Theophilus Simmons who appreciated the Negro woman but had a liaison with Gloria Benson whilst in seminary. She is known for being desperate to marry any preacher and for sleeping with them. Reverend Simmons repents but has to live with the consequences of his actions. He then becomes the pastor of a small church and does a good job. And then there is the romance as he meets Essie Lee Lane. This will take up a good portion of the first part of the book. And I recognize that the author uses this first portion to contrast the biblical way and the "wordly" context of sex without being preachy. But I am not a fan of romance and it wasn't what I was expecting in this novel. I was more interested in seeing more on the Civil Rights Movement and how the church was involved. But that is a personal quirk of mine. Plus I felt the sexual content after marriage was a bit too detailed. But it was used as an example of how romance continues after marriage, along with the difficulties of being newlyweds, thereby, defying the trope of happily ever after
The last portion dealt with corruption in the church. A legacy that continues today to be quite honest. This corruption not only involved money but sexual scandal. Unfortunately, the negative aspects rather than showing faith being active through prayer as well as the investigation were the highlights. It shows the evil but it needed to spend more time countering the disillusion that was addressed numerous times.
I had high hopes for this book. It challenged my concept on how Christian living can be presented authentically with all the human flaws but yet provide true hope. This book gets close to the authentic and non-preachy tone but I thought it needed more attention to handling the topics brought up in a biblical manner.
The last portion dealt with corruption in the church. A legacy that continues today to be quite honest. This corruption not only involved money but sexual scandal. Unfortunately, the negative aspects rather than showing faith being active through prayer as well as the investigation were the highlights. It shows the evil but it needed to spend more time countering the disillusion that was addressed numerous times.
I had high hopes for this book. It challenged my concept on how Christian living can be presented authentically with all the human flaws but yet provide true hope. This book gets close to the authentic and non-preachy tone but I thought it needed more attention to handling the topics brought up in a biblical manner.
February 25, 2022
Five star read. Strongly encourage this to be read. When reading this book, for the 2nd time, all I kept thinking was “the devil is in the details.” That phrase was something that I heard as a child. I was told that it meant that the details of anything can be complicated and likely to cause problems. For the life of me, I never acquainted it with the church. Bowen does a phenomenal job aiding the reader to see that for the churched or unchurched, it is a daily walk to do right by yourself, those whom you love, the church and God.
It also helps the reader to see that not all who lead are called by God. It, too, reflects how easy Christians can formulate opinions of others and really contribute to them not feeling welcomed. It’s often been said that some are so holier than thou that they are no earthly good!
Does God desire his leaders to have secretaries and others to work alongside the shepherd who leads the congregation to lie, manipulate and support bad behavior? I wonder if antics such as shifting money around and straightening up books occur in today’s church? Is there whiskey in a credenza or drinking occurring in God’s house by leaders? Forget the whiskey….is God pleased that greed surrounds such men…why has this mess be allowed?
Church Folk gives a great bird’s eye view of Bishops and Pastors, First Ladies, and actions undertaken. It goes a step further in demonstrating that some leaders of congregations feel that they are above being questioned and congregants should just contribute, support and take what they say as the gospel? Does putting Pastors and other church leaders upon a pedestal contribute to such negative behavior? Is censoring and sitting down such leaders helpful? Is the devil truly always busy in the church? Are Senior Pastors willing to take a stand when such mess is known?
I have often heard and even have had suspicions on the gossip that has enthralled various church leaders and their behavior. And, too, upon joining a church, it has also been revealed that many members have had knowledge and even assisted leaders in actions and behaviors that goes against everything that God stands for and desires.
How is it that church members stand by and accept such antics from those who are suppose to lead? Do members get so accustomed to the status quo that they just resign themselves to just accept it? Does questioning and having concerns mean that the member/members are questioning God?
Like Bowen illustrates in this work, I do believe that corruption can exist in the church. The church is made up of flawed people. At one instance, the church affirms love, encourages growth and echoes that evil will not prevail. Then, at the next turn mockery, corruption, financial draining and personal agendas, not God’s agenda, becomes the priority. I guess the million dollar question is: how should Christians respond when people shun church membership because of such vices? I don’t know what the answer is. I just know that I continue to pray for God’s guidance as I try to live right. The devil is truly in the details!
It also helps the reader to see that not all who lead are called by God. It, too, reflects how easy Christians can formulate opinions of others and really contribute to them not feeling welcomed. It’s often been said that some are so holier than thou that they are no earthly good!
Does God desire his leaders to have secretaries and others to work alongside the shepherd who leads the congregation to lie, manipulate and support bad behavior? I wonder if antics such as shifting money around and straightening up books occur in today’s church? Is there whiskey in a credenza or drinking occurring in God’s house by leaders? Forget the whiskey….is God pleased that greed surrounds such men…why has this mess be allowed?
Church Folk gives a great bird’s eye view of Bishops and Pastors, First Ladies, and actions undertaken. It goes a step further in demonstrating that some leaders of congregations feel that they are above being questioned and congregants should just contribute, support and take what they say as the gospel? Does putting Pastors and other church leaders upon a pedestal contribute to such negative behavior? Is censoring and sitting down such leaders helpful? Is the devil truly always busy in the church? Are Senior Pastors willing to take a stand when such mess is known?
I have often heard and even have had suspicions on the gossip that has enthralled various church leaders and their behavior. And, too, upon joining a church, it has also been revealed that many members have had knowledge and even assisted leaders in actions and behaviors that goes against everything that God stands for and desires.
How is it that church members stand by and accept such antics from those who are suppose to lead? Do members get so accustomed to the status quo that they just resign themselves to just accept it? Does questioning and having concerns mean that the member/members are questioning God?
Like Bowen illustrates in this work, I do believe that corruption can exist in the church. The church is made up of flawed people. At one instance, the church affirms love, encourages growth and echoes that evil will not prevail. Then, at the next turn mockery, corruption, financial draining and personal agendas, not God’s agenda, becomes the priority. I guess the million dollar question is: how should Christians respond when people shun church membership because of such vices? I don’t know what the answer is. I just know that I continue to pray for God’s guidance as I try to live right. The devil is truly in the details!
May 4, 2010
very humorous but true book on the way people act in church.
January 26, 2025
Amazing✍🏾 writing❗
This book had all the aspects of the black community and churches in the 1960s. It is unfortunate that the controversy the devil stirs continues in 2025. The author accurately expresses the culture and philosophy of the era. This book captures my attention from beginning to end.
This book had all the aspects of the black community and churches in the 1960s. It is unfortunate that the controversy the devil stirs continues in 2025. The author accurately expresses the culture and philosophy of the era. This book captures my attention from beginning to end.
April 3, 2010
This novel is about a preacher, a young, handsome African Amercan Preacher in the south who is just starting out. He meets a young woman who is a cook in a "jook joint", a place where they serve wonderful spicy food and feature spicy entertainment such as blues singing. Church Folk spans a few years beginning in 1960 (that's the year I was born), Theophilus (handsome young preacher) and Essie (down to earth, fiery-tempered woman) are the two main characters. One of the strongest secondary characters is the church itself. Not just the building, but everything there is about church-going: the congregation, the singing, the music, the church politics, the sermons, the "amens" etc. Sprinkled throughout the book, are mentions and references to the Civil Rights Movement, which was going on during the time period this book is set in, although the main focus in the story is the love story and the machinations of some of the greedy preachers and the workings of the more upstanding "church folk".
One of the subplots is the ill-use of funds and the way that some deacons, preachers and bishops seemed to use the church as a way to enrich themselves materialistically rather than enriching their souls and parishioners souls. Church Folk is also a love story and one of the other subplots was the testing of Essie and Theophilis' marriage and love for each other, as well as the growth of their marriage.
While there certainly were no graphic sex scenes, it did feel as if most of the passages involving Theo and Essie were one long session of foreplay. Boy, were those two hot for each other. Another thing that really struck me, was the way that almost all the descriptions of skin color were food related. "Caramel colored", "Dark Chocolate", "light Chocolate", even "Dark Coffee without Cream". Kind of a nice way to compare skin colors. (I would probably be Dulce de Leche, or milky caramel. Yum, Yum. What I enjoyed about this, was the sense of happiness, the non-shame of loving and appreciating their bodies while loving and appreciating the bible and bible teachings.
All in all, I enjoyed this book. I loved the narration style. I loved the dialogue between all the characters, both mean and sweet. I loved reading about the singing and music and dancing in the aisles. If I were brought up with a church like that, I might still be going! Ms Bowen tells a great story here of the triumph of a preacher and his young wife, their flaws and good points and the persevere against the "devils work" in the church. This is one impulse buy that I'm glad I bought. I would definitely recommend this book, especially if you want a good book with a little bit of history for the POC Reading Challenge. Even though most of the events in this novel took place when I was around two or three years old, I still felt a sense of nostalgia when reading about the environment, the music, the cars and clothes. Those early 60's are a very dim memory in my mind. The late 60's and early 70's kind of exploded in my memories, that was a time of extreme change for a lot of people - I'm talking about changes in general - clothes, music, tv shows, etc.
One of the subplots is the ill-use of funds and the way that some deacons, preachers and bishops seemed to use the church as a way to enrich themselves materialistically rather than enriching their souls and parishioners souls. Church Folk is also a love story and one of the other subplots was the testing of Essie and Theophilis' marriage and love for each other, as well as the growth of their marriage.
While there certainly were no graphic sex scenes, it did feel as if most of the passages involving Theo and Essie were one long session of foreplay. Boy, were those two hot for each other. Another thing that really struck me, was the way that almost all the descriptions of skin color were food related. "Caramel colored", "Dark Chocolate", "light Chocolate", even "Dark Coffee without Cream". Kind of a nice way to compare skin colors. (I would probably be Dulce de Leche, or milky caramel. Yum, Yum. What I enjoyed about this, was the sense of happiness, the non-shame of loving and appreciating their bodies while loving and appreciating the bible and bible teachings.
All in all, I enjoyed this book. I loved the narration style. I loved the dialogue between all the characters, both mean and sweet. I loved reading about the singing and music and dancing in the aisles. If I were brought up with a church like that, I might still be going! Ms Bowen tells a great story here of the triumph of a preacher and his young wife, their flaws and good points and the persevere against the "devils work" in the church. This is one impulse buy that I'm glad I bought. I would definitely recommend this book, especially if you want a good book with a little bit of history for the POC Reading Challenge. Even though most of the events in this novel took place when I was around two or three years old, I still felt a sense of nostalgia when reading about the environment, the music, the cars and clothes. Those early 60's are a very dim memory in my mind. The late 60's and early 70's kind of exploded in my memories, that was a time of extreme change for a lot of people - I'm talking about changes in general - clothes, music, tv shows, etc.
October 11, 2013
Michele Andrea Bowen's writing captures the era and the culture beautifully while Denise Burse narrates the unfolding events with the style and flavor of an American Southern town during the story's timeline.
The story puts the reader in Mississippi among people who may remind them of those with whom they grew up, interacted, or worked. If it does not, this reader can attest to the feelings of authenticity and charm these people bring to the story.
Church Folk is an enjoyable read/listen about a black community in Mississippi circa 1961-1963. The plot centers around a young, handsome, black man, Rev Theophilus Simmons, and his courtship of Essie, a young, good, black woman worthy of marrying. The story evolves through the characters' behavior with one another during the days of Civil Rights. Some of the male minor characters, including those of the cloth, use women in the community as objects to satisfy their sexual urges which makes them feel desirable and important. As one elder female citizen points out, some women think that having sex with a man of God is a pathway to grace by way of his penis. This slice of life is fraught with humorous colloquialisms like this. At first, Essie questions Rev Theophilus Simmons' intentions knowing many men, especially good looking ones, like to play the field. She did not want to be a player in any man's field. This quality in Essie is one of the reasons Theophilus courts and eventually marries her. Theophilus proves to be the man Essie believes him to be by his devotion to her and his stance against the corruption in the church.
The story puts the reader in Mississippi among people who may remind them of those with whom they grew up, interacted, or worked. If it does not, this reader can attest to the feelings of authenticity and charm these people bring to the story.
Church Folk is an enjoyable read/listen about a black community in Mississippi circa 1961-1963. The plot centers around a young, handsome, black man, Rev Theophilus Simmons, and his courtship of Essie, a young, good, black woman worthy of marrying. The story evolves through the characters' behavior with one another during the days of Civil Rights. Some of the male minor characters, including those of the cloth, use women in the community as objects to satisfy their sexual urges which makes them feel desirable and important. As one elder female citizen points out, some women think that having sex with a man of God is a pathway to grace by way of his penis. This slice of life is fraught with humorous colloquialisms like this. At first, Essie questions Rev Theophilus Simmons' intentions knowing many men, especially good looking ones, like to play the field. She did not want to be a player in any man's field. This quality in Essie is one of the reasons Theophilus courts and eventually marries her. Theophilus proves to be the man Essie believes him to be by his devotion to her and his stance against the corruption in the church.
September 1, 2007
Can I Get An Amen?!!
First-time novelist, Michelle Andrea Bowen, gives us an entertaining and soul-stirring story titled Church Folk. "Church Folk" is the latest release from Walk Worthy Press and lives up to the tradition that has made this publishing company successful…novels of real people rediscovering His plan as they confront their most difficult challenges—and face the biggest decisions of their lives.~~~~~~~The setting is the 60's in the midst of the civil rights movement in which the black church was the center of much of this causes activities. Theophilus Simmons, new pastor of Greater Hope United Church is single, new in the ministry, and falling deeply for Essie Lane. Their courtship is sweet and honest. Their marriage is put to the test by "Church Folk".
"Church Folk" shows all the elements of church life, the good, the bad, and the ugly. This book shows that there are wolves among the sheep, but the sheep ultimately overcome. While reading this book I laughed out loud, said 'Amen' several times, and reminisced of the times when I was young attending church. It isn't so "churchy" that it isn't real. It isn't so hardcore that you can't enjoy it as a christian.
First-time novelist, Michelle Andrea Bowen, gives us an entertaining and soul-stirring story titled Church Folk. "Church Folk" is the latest release from Walk Worthy Press and lives up to the tradition that has made this publishing company successful…novels of real people rediscovering His plan as they confront their most difficult challenges—and face the biggest decisions of their lives.~~~~~~~The setting is the 60's in the midst of the civil rights movement in which the black church was the center of much of this causes activities. Theophilus Simmons, new pastor of Greater Hope United Church is single, new in the ministry, and falling deeply for Essie Lane. Their courtship is sweet and honest. Their marriage is put to the test by "Church Folk".
"Church Folk" shows all the elements of church life, the good, the bad, and the ugly. This book shows that there are wolves among the sheep, but the sheep ultimately overcome. While reading this book I laughed out loud, said 'Amen' several times, and reminisced of the times when I was young attending church. It isn't so "churchy" that it isn't real. It isn't so hardcore that you can't enjoy it as a christian.
April 29, 2011
Loved book from beginning to end. Essie and Theophilus showed how a pastor and wife can exhibit true love and be themselved inside the church and outside the church doors. I loved their relationship b/c they didn't pretend to be uppity and presitigious even though they both were highly regarded in the church. To be blunt...they kept it real!!! Essie was a jook joint cook, and her personality drew this preacher man in the first time he laid eyes on her. Essie wasn't the choice folks of the church would have picked for him, but their love for one another proved to be stronger than any outside force. LOVED CHURCH FOLK, and will definitely read other books by Michelle Bowen!!
January 31, 2012
I almost stopped reading this book at first. The behavior of the main character was not appropriate for a preacher and I was really surprised and shocked. However, I kept reading and it turned out to be a great book. The behavior of men who are supposed to be Godly is shameful but that is reflective of the time and of the reality that people don't always act like they are supposed to. The characters are great and I enjoyed the redemption of Saphronia. The book is also hilarious and I know I laughed out loud frequently despite the fact I was often reading in public. I loved the church aspects. It was definitely true to life and Michele Bowen hit it right on the head.
July 2, 2024
The last 1/3 of the book was great! I’m glad I stuck with it. The vague references to the Movement without any depth was disappointing. I think it could have made the story richer. I did appreciate the “humanity” that she portrayed through the characters in reference to love. One thing was the over use of the word “mess.” Maybe a thesaurus could have been used to vary the difference between sex and church in-fighting. I loved the description of the outfits, but some were tedious at times. When I read the back of the book I was instantly in love then I cracked the cover. So just 2 stars for me. I think this book had A LOT of potential, but just didn’t quite make it.
December 17, 2010
This book was dry and I couldn't even bring myself to continue reading it.
August 25, 2011
Wonderful novel! The story and humor ..... A+! Great Job Michele
February 22, 2013
Learned of this book from a comment on FB by Tausha Walker.
Highly amusing ... it's not just the "black" church that acts this way!
Highly amusing ... it's not just the "black" church that acts this way!
October 26, 2018
Church Folk was a pleasant find. I was uncertain about what to expect from the title and description. The book did an excellent job depicting many perspectives of "church folk". No one was exempt...the preachers, bishops, preacher's wives, dedicated and not so dedicated members, and let us not forget the cynical onlookers. The author truly brought these people to life.
My reasons for the 4 stars vs 5 stars? While the characters and storyline were spot on, there were many areas I felt were underdeveloped. For example, the characters history or backdrop. We have all of these personality flaws with no plausible reason for why the characters are how they are. It would help to know a piece of at least the main character's history.
All in all I really enjoyed this read. I would advise you adding this to your "want to read".😊
My reasons for the 4 stars vs 5 stars? While the characters and storyline were spot on, there were many areas I felt were underdeveloped. For example, the characters history or backdrop. We have all of these personality flaws with no plausible reason for why the characters are how they are. It would help to know a piece of at least the main character's history.
All in all I really enjoyed this read. I would advise you adding this to your "want to read".😊
January 2, 2022
This book was a selection for a local library book club, and I admit that it was very different from what I expected. The characters were indeed "ChurchFolk" but not like any church people I had even known. They were different from any I had even read about or heard about, but I really liked them. Unfortunately, there were some 'not-so-good characters' as there are in any church, but the story was balanced and easy to follow.
The plot was not as I expected mainly because of the times and places of the action that did not go the direction that I thought they would. The early 1960's and the civil rights movement were not completely overlooked, but almost. And that was acceptable to me because I no doubt would have become emotional, remembering living through those years. On the other hand, what I learned from the church folk was worth reading. And I might add, enjoying.
The plot was not as I expected mainly because of the times and places of the action that did not go the direction that I thought they would. The early 1960's and the civil rights movement were not completely overlooked, but almost. And that was acceptable to me because I no doubt would have become emotional, remembering living through those years. On the other hand, what I learned from the church folk was worth reading. And I might add, enjoying.
August 24, 2025
What a wonderful introduction to Michelle Andrea Bowen’s church universe! Church Folk was such a sweet, engaging read that pulled me right in. I loved how real and relatable the characters felt—while I might not have experienced all of their hijinks, I definitely connected with their backstories, relationships, and the very real church politics woven throughout the story. Bowen captures the spirit of community—the laughter, the side conversations, the struggles, and the joy—in a way that feels authentic and heartwarming. I truly enjoyed every page and can’t wait to continue on with more of her books.
July 24, 2020
OH MY GOODNESS LOVED THIS
It was full of stereotypes of Church folk and what goes on in and around the church. However it was wonderfully executed.
Love how the story flowed. Though it was set in the late 50s and early 60s it wasn't laden with historical events and facts. The Civil rights movement was mentioned but they didnt dwell on it. I was gretful for that.
I really enjoyed all the characters and how they interacted with one another. I wanted to stay in this world a little longer than the book allowed. I guess I have to read it again. :)
It was full of stereotypes of Church folk and what goes on in and around the church. However it was wonderfully executed.
Love how the story flowed. Though it was set in the late 50s and early 60s it wasn't laden with historical events and facts. The Civil rights movement was mentioned but they didnt dwell on it. I was gretful for that.
I really enjoyed all the characters and how they interacted with one another. I wanted to stay in this world a little longer than the book allowed. I guess I have to read it again. :)
April 16, 2020
Excellent Book
I gave this book 5 stars because I just couldn't put it down. It is definitely a must read. It pulled the cover off of what some church folk have to deal with even today with corrupt, womanizing, money hungry pastors. Without giving away parts of the book, It showed how what's done in the dark will surely be brought to the light. No one is above God.
I gave this book 5 stars because I just couldn't put it down. It is definitely a must read. It pulled the cover off of what some church folk have to deal with even today with corrupt, womanizing, money hungry pastors. Without giving away parts of the book, It showed how what's done in the dark will surely be brought to the light. No one is above God.
April 29, 2020
This is a story about a group of ministers, Theophilus Simmon in particular, in the south in the 60's. They all belong to one denomination and the story takes place as they are getting ready to elect new bishops and decide what ministers will be at which churches.
During their convention, there is a major scandal. The interactions of the members is something to watch.
During their convention, there is a major scandal. The interactions of the members is something to watch.
November 3, 2020
Lord, have mercy! I don't know if I'm cut out to be a pastor's wife. All the trials these women endure...
This was a good read and you can't help but root for Essie (Pastor Theophilus Simmons' wife). Lots of shady characters and loads of unbelievable activity, but God saw it all! Can't wait to read More Church Folk!
This was a good read and you can't help but root for Essie (Pastor Theophilus Simmons' wife). Lots of shady characters and loads of unbelievable activity, but God saw it all! Can't wait to read More Church Folk!
November 21, 2017
When I saw this book I had to have it. The book was so good I had to go on amazon to find more books or continuation of this series. I have a copy of all of her books except the last two, and I have been searching for more than a year for them.
May 29, 2018
I really enjoy this book! I’ve read it at least one hundred times and will read it twice as much again. The book is a great fiction read. There is romance, drama, hints of sex (very tasteful), and lots of comedy. It is well written and the character are like my old friends. I just love them!!
March 6, 2019
This was the first book I'd read by Michele Andrea Bowen and I enjoyed this story from the first page to the last. Since then I also finished More Church Folks and have written a longer review on that one. Suffice it to say, I am hoping this author continues to write about church folk and their very colorful congregations and clergy.
As an afterthought, I also liked reading the descriptions of the church "finery," from the very tasteful to the outright hilarious garb sported by some of the more ostentatious church members.
As an afterthought, I also liked reading the descriptions of the church "finery," from the very tasteful to the outright hilarious garb sported by some of the more ostentatious church members.
March 14, 2021
If you are a person that has been raised in a black church in America, then you will enjoy this book.
I found that even though I didn't live in the south, we still had the same attitudes about how things were done in church. And the things that were hidden in the church also.
I found that even though I didn't live in the south, we still had the same attitudes about how things were done in church. And the things that were hidden in the church also.
July 15, 2021
This is my first time reading a book by Michele Bowen, I really enjoyed the boy. The one issue that I had with the book/story is that there were times when the author went into a lot of detail/description of an item or an event and I did not feel that it was needed. At the start of the book I was not sure that I was going to like it but I did. I have now moved on to another of her books.
August 2, 2021
This is a good book. I stumbled across this author and I’m very glad that I did. This is a pretty clean read but it had the right amount of drama and scandal to keep you interested. I would recommend this to anyone looking for a quick read.
October 1, 2021
Funny and Full of Good Reading
A book that will surprise you about the intricate workings within the church. There's humor and situations in the story that makes the book a very good read.
A book that will surprise you about the intricate workings within the church. There's humor and situations in the story that makes the book a very good read.
May 22, 2017
One of the few books I have read multiple times. For those who have family in church leadership you realize just how spot on this book is.
June 27, 2017
Cute story that will have you laughing and reminiscing on your own "church folk". Loved it...
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