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Review: The Pastor's Hope

The Pastor's Hope book cover on blue background

Meghann Whistler is one of the authors that was first introduced to me by LibraryThing, and I'm grateful that I've been able to follow her books ever since! She still stands out to me as writing some of the best medical scenes I've come across, and it's always a treat to get to enjoy each new release. The Pastor's Hope is her latest Love Inspired title, and the cover is quite fun with all of the blue 💙

Many thanks to Meghann Whistler and LibraryThing for providing a complimentary copy of this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own. Book Thoughts content is also posted on LibraryThing.

Book Synopsis

Can they let go of the past… to find a fresh start?

When pastor Nate Anderson says yes to being his father’s best man, he certainly doesn’t expect to be matched up with the maid of honor. The widowed single dad has been alone a long time but has never wanted to give his heart to anyone. Thankfully, recent widow Amanda Kobayashi feels the same way. But when Nate and Amanda are forced to take dance lessons before the wedding, there’s an undeniable connection between them. Can they ever overcome their losses and give love a second chance?

Source: Amazon

Book Thoughts

If you've read Meghann Whistler's previous books, you'll enjoy getting to see cameos from her previous stories. It was a pleasant surprise to encounter those characters again and to see them play a role in Nate and Amanda's interactions. I loved the representation of Asian Americans through the Kobayashi family, and Ivy was simply an adorable character who brought charm and levity to the story as Amanda's precocious daughter. The scenes with Nate and his father stood out to me as it depicted a pastor in his more vulnerable moments, providing a glimpse into his humanity beyond the pulpit. I appreciated that he came across as a true shepherd of his congregation, elevating the role of pastoral care beyond simply a duty. As a result, Nate came across as a genuinely kind man called into ministry for the right reasons, which was reflected in how he raised his son, Hayden, as well.

The pacing of this book allowed for both romance and spiritual growth to take place, along with lessons around forgiveness and letting go of bitterness and hurt by entrusting them to God. Though Amanda initially runs away from her problems, the author takes her through a journey of maturity that is reflective of how we might try to address things in our own strength as well. Reading about the complex emotions of a widower and a widow, I found this book to be insightful and gracious when tackling sensitive topics like medical guilt, resentment, and blame. Readers looking for a redemptive story about flawed characters who hold on tightly to God amid tragic circumstances will enjoy the hope that comes from believing that He is still doing a good work in us.

Book Summary

  • Format of book: 📱
  • Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
  • Recommendation: 👍
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