Say Amen, Again

Say Amen #3

by ReShonda Tate Billingsley

The spirited Houston congregation featured in ReShonda Tate Billingsley’s Let the Church Say Amen and Everybody Say Amen has a major scandal unfolding—and, as always, the outspoken Rachel Jackson Adams is at the heart of the drama.

As the First Lady of Zion Hill, Rachel is not only Pastor Lester Adams’ wife—she’s currently his eight-months-pregnant wife, who’s going toe-to-toe with Lester’s onetime mistress, congregant Mary Richardson, also pregnant. Her baby may or may not be Lester’s, but Mary’s doing all she can to win sympathy and turn her fellow churchgoers against Rachel—even threatening to blackmail Pastor Adams with a paternity agreement. After all, where can an unmarried mother-to-be go but to the Lord? Rachel has a few choice answers for exactly where Mary can go . . . but as these expectant moms do battle, hostilities erupt into a drama unlike anything Zion Hill has ever seen! Something has to give, and while Rachel contemplates everything from transferring her lifelong church membership to packing up and leaving Lester, she knows deep down God is calling her to forgiveness. Will the arrival of the new babies bring a new understanding? Or harden forever the anger that’s dividing them?

Genres: Christian Fiction, Fiction, Audiobook, Christian, Urban, Drama

294 pages, Paperback

First published July 5, 2011

About the author

ReShonda Tate Billingsley is a general assignment reporter for KRIV-TV, the Fox affiliate in Houston, Texas. She is the author of the nonfiction book Help! I've Turned Into My Mother! and three previous adult novels: My Brother's Keeper, for which she received the prestigious Gold Pen Award for Best New Author from the Black Writer's Alliance and the Nova Lee Nation Award from the Greater Dallas Writing Association; the national bestseller Let the Church Say Amen, chosen for Library Journal's Best of 2004 list for Christian fiction; and I Know I've Been Changed, a Main Selection of the Black Expressions Book Club.
Her previous Christian teen novels are Nothing But Drama and Blessings in Disguise, both available from Pocket Books.
She is also a contributor to the story anthology Have a Little Faith.

Reviews

[Myesha-Tiara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Favorite Quote: “You didn’t intend to go to the hospital, just like you didn’t intend to get her pregnant. What did you intend to do, Lester?”~Rachel

I love to hat Mary as the main antagonist. She has just the right amount of audacity. This third installment in the Amen Series delivers just like the first two. I can’t get enough of Billingsley’s writings

[Carmen Blalock · Rating 5 out of 5]

*******SPOILER ALERT IF YOU HAVEN'T READ THE FIRST 2 BOOKS!!!*******
Rachel is 8 months pregnant and having nightmares after finding out that her husband's mistress, Mary is also pregnant and it could possibly be Lester's baby!!! As much as Rachel and Mary have fought over Lester, this seems like the straw that broke the camel's back. Rachel just can't take anymore, now it is a matter of keeping her mind right for herself and her children.

Mary can see that Rachel is not going to let her and Lester be together so she does whatever she can to make sure that she is forever in Rachel's life. Adding to the list of low-down underhanded things that Mary can think of her next adventure in making Rachel's life miserable is to start dating her brother, David who is unaware that this is the infamous Mary that has been trying to destroy his sister's life. But the one thing that Mary does not count on is the Adams family, however dysfunctional they are they are FAMILY!

Life for Jonathan is starting to look better. After all of the drama with being in love with Tracey, Angela finding out about his sexuality and hiding his son from him and going to court to get visitation rights to see Chase, Jonathan is doing well for himself. Jonathan is seeing Chase on a regular basis and working as a school guidance counselor but his Aunt Minnie is a bible-totting christian who is trying to "pray away the gay" and that is just the start of trouble for Jonathan once again.

The beginning of Say Amen, Again, ReShonda Tate Billingsley gives you the background story on the cast of characters in this book but you are doing yourself an injustice by not reading the first two in this series, Let The Church Say Amen and Everybody Say Amen. This is an excellent series written by an author who makes you want to participate in the conversations going on or help clear some of this drama up! There were times while I was reading these books where I was giving advise to the characters or saying "I would do . . .", indication of a great author! ReShonda Tate Billingsley is doing great things with her writing and I look forward to more

[Monique · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rachel Adams has worked hard to change her life and be right with God and as Zion Hil’s First Lady her work in the church speaks for itself. That is until Mary Richardson lures her husband, Pastor Lester Adams, into her bedroom. The crazy thing is that they are both pregnant and Lester may have two babies on his hands. Rachel and Mary take off the gloves and go toe to toe during this everybody in the church ain’t right installment of the Amen series.

Obviously, ReShonda has a gift from God with her comedic pen and witty words. She tackles issues that we hear about but don’t openly talk about – praying the gay away, busy body single church women, and womanizing pastors. As the scandal unfolds the drama steps up a notch with every page. There are points that I thought were predictable and a couple of areas that slowed in action but this was definitely a must-read addition to the Amen series. Keep’em coming ReShonda…

[Adrienna · Rating 4 out of 5]

The schemes we try to do can backlash back in our faces. Not everyone is easily convinced for one's conniving tactics, Rachel Adams hunches were proven correct. Jonathan stood up to his Aunt Minnie, moral lesson is that sometimes religious people will say what is an abomination and point out sin but we need to get the plank out of our own eye. Do you know if you are going to heaven? God is our Judge on Judgment Day, not man. So glad the author pointed this notion out. We quote the Holy Bible, we know the parts that are against God, but are we living the godly way ourselves.

[Dee Cherry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rachel has surely matured since book 1 of this series. Although I had anticipated the old Rachel to reappear, she held it together the best she could. Mary had no idea whom she was up against in that battle. Aunt Minnie was in the way, she needed what Simon gave her. Storyline kept me reading, anxious to find out what would happen. Ending was bittersweet as I look forward to reading about this First Family.

[Denise Hutchinson · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was the first book that I received as a giveaway. I enjoyed the book. I read it on a recent flight and it held my interest. I didn't realize that it was part of a series until I was already into it. I will read the other books in the series. I would recommend it, especially for someone who wants a book that is written from a Christian perspective.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful book! The highs and lows throughout the writing really keep you tuned in for what's next. So much passion and pain!

[Carisma · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG i love Rachel and her character development ! this book is beautifully written . i love every minute of it . i couldn’t put it down . it had me wanting for more , i absolutely hate it finish this series .

[His Wife7474 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rachel is a mess. And I love it! Her growth is even more evident in Say Amen, Again, the last book in the trilogy. Though to me Rachel is the standout character in the trilogy; however, all of the characters struggle with their own issues. Each of the characters have their faith tested in one way or another. I have enjoyed reading how they overcome AND fall short.

Rachel's story continues in another series written by ReShonda Tate Billingsly & Victoria C. Murray. In order the titles are Sinners & Saints, Friends & Foes, Fortune & Fame, Blessings & A Curse. In these titles Rachel's story crosses paths with Lady Jasmine, a character from Victoria C. Murray's books. Currently, I've started reading Jasmine's journey from the beginning. Looking forward to when these two ladies meet!

[reneeNaDaCherry · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was the best ending to the "Amen" series because First Lady Rachel Jackson Adams has definitely changed her life for the better. I was surprised when she stepped up to the plate to raise Mary Richardson's son Lester Jr/Lewis as her own. Rachel had sympathy and did not want the baby to be turned over to CPS. Unfortunately, Mary and her baby daddy, Craig, had been brought up in the foster care system and had a rough life. Then, all of the false charges against her husband, Pastor Lester of Zion Hill Church, had been dropped. That conniving Mary aka Tammy Westerland aka Lola Franklin has been sent to prison for identity theft, credit card fraud and accessory to murder. Karma is a mutha.

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great continuation of the series. Rachel went through a lot of back and forth and drama that didn't have to happen because of Mary. Pastor Lester got himself into situations that he should never get into. Rachel's father Simon was a wise man and I enjoyed him so much more than in the first book. Johnathan and David have both come a long way too. I would highly recommend this book.

[Belinda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Say Amen, Again was an exceptional read! I really did'nt see the end coming. This book was so powerful. There is so much about forgiveness in this book. Rachel was remarkable in the end. Poor Mary never stood a chance, she had so many strikes against her. I enjoyed this family and how they stood up for each other. If you read this book, read them in order. There are 2 before this one.

[Brandi Armstead · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good book

Rachel has really grown up spiritually. There is still some of the old her that has remained. Her brother is still struggling to find himself. There is always one relative in the family that likes to tell others how to live. I really enjoyed this book!

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the words of TLC,"Baby,baby,baby. " Wonderful, fab, great!!!!!

[Dorothy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another AWESOME book by, Reshonda Tate Billingsley! The end was shocking but awesome! I loved it! :)

[Sheryl Boyce · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a good book. Can't believe it ended like it did, but it held my interest all the way to the end. It will be interesting to see if she continues the storyline into another book.

[Karin · Rating 1 out of 5]

I'm guessing I'm the first person to give this one star because I inadvertently read the third one first, so those who didn't like the first or second one stopped reading this series. I checked and there were low ratings for at least the first book, although it's overall well liked by readers.

This is the third book I've read by Billingsley, but the first one I didn't like. It read more like a soap opera and, to be frank, I'd never stay in a church with that much scandal with pastors, etc. I've been one of a handful of non-blacks in a black church before, and have to say that while there may be black churches like this one, I haven't personally seen it. Normally I go to more mixed-culture churches, but I've lived in a number of places. However, even though no church is perfect, I wouldn't hang around when where a pastor had an affair and wasn't suspended or fired because the Bible is clear on the behaviour of clergy. I've known pastors/ministers fired for this very type of behaviour even in liberal churches.

I finished it since I borrowed it from the library (glad this isn't one I bought) for a challenge, but this has turned me off her books, at least any in this series. The other two were three star likes for me.

[K Lamb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Whew! Lord! Have! Mercy! All I can say is that this read was a hot mess. The old Rachel returned (though she's a work in progress) and Mary is a no good, manipulator, home wrecker, and thief. Billingsley won me over with the first installments, Let the Church Say Amen and Everybody Say Amen. This one was a page turner from the very first page. It seems as if drama follows the Adams' regardless. Rachel was a good wife because many women would have left their spouse with no questions asked. Mary got what she deserved. She truly had it coming. Aunt Minnie needs to get a life and stay outta folks business. Hence the saying, "sweep around your own front door, before you try to sweep around mine." Finally, Jonathan chose to free himself and be his true self. Life is too short to dull one's shine because others throw shade your way.

[Kat Ferguson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Turn a 304 into a housewife then put her on a pedestal. Complete bizarro world by surrounding her with an evil white lady trying to steal her man (the one she treats like utter trash), simpleton men without 3 brain cells amongst them and friends who couldn't STFU if their lives depended on it. Oh and the fake self-righteous (Ill do it if I feel like it) religion thrown in. Tyler Perry 101. UGH & let's highlight kicking your beaten down down husband from the home then denigrating him for designing to show up for the delivery of their baby. He sleeps outside in the vehicle and she BITCHES about that. ALL of this woman's focus is on her husband cheating but she's the original cheat hood rat herself. Just as ratchet. I hoped she'd lose her baby, no such luck. The author is a sadist.

[Demetrica Boling · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well Well. The plot thickens.
If Rachel's faith hasn't ever been tested it has now. Pastor Jackson is no longer in remission, remarried, and living life to the fullest. David gets involved with MARY, Johnathan is a counselor at the school and is tested when a confused kids needs his help. Lester goes to jail. Mary goes to jail and Rachel has to take care of the baby. OMGGGG These books was amazing and was almost sad it was ending. Well I'm going to keep this review short cause I DO NOT WANT to SPOIL the ending!!!

If you read on Audible the narrator is amazing!!!

[Amy Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’re wondering what DRAMA looks like, Book #3 did not disappoint!

I don’t condone violence, but for a few seconds, the old Rachel came back—and she let Mary have it. I laughed so hard I was in tears!

This book truly brings to life the meaning of “He will make your enemies your footstool” and shows how God humbles us, leading to both asking for and granting forgiveness.

It was also refreshing to see the parental growth between Jonathan and Angela.

The Say Amen series was an absolutely fun and engaging read—I highly recommend it!

[Pat Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Church Drama

Even though I didn't read the first two books in this series, i didn't hesitate to read this free thanks to kindle unlimited.
There was so much going on with these church folks and I'm praying only the teeniest, tiniest percentage of congregations ever have to suffer through such drama in church, especially by its leadership.
Some things that stood out:
You shouldn't forgive someone yet continually throw their transgressions at them.
It takes two to make a marriage work.
A cheating spouse is responsible for his or her decision - there's no being driven to do the deed.
You never know who God will choose to bless you.
Karma is real.

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pastor and First Lady Adams had leaps and bounds to deal with.

Again we get to see Rachel grow to a whole new level.

Like most people, Rachel's past did not speak to how her life would turn out. Mary gave her a dose of her own medicine, but her old ways came in handy to take Mary down.

The Jackson kids ended up in a good way in Book 3.

Physically read via Scribd 5 stars

[Marsha Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

If drama was a book!😳

This book should definitely be made into a movie! It would be a good book club discussion but it may be too long for a group. It’s a great reminder of life challenges and how we choose to handle them.

I had to ask myself the questions in the end of this book because I truly went back and forth. We all know these characters and some of them are us😩

[Yolanda Fann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rachel came full circle in this series. From a spoiled brat to a grown woman with fire. The author brought all of characters to life in this trilogy. I recommend reading them all together. You will thank me.

[💖📚BOOKZAMILLION📖💘 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read!!! Rachel surprised me in the end.

[Autumn · Rating 5 out of 5]

My enjoyment with this series increased with each book. Rachel Jackson Adams is a certified mess and a fun character. More to come...

[Constance Hannah]

This book was very interesting and it kept my attention.

[Constance Hannah]

Great Book!!!

[Dr. Joy C. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Literally finished this in two days! Could not put it down.