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Pam’s divorce broke her heart. The cruelty of her ex-husband broke her spirit. A bottle of sleeping pills almost took her life. Four years later the scars of Alan Archer’s emotional abuse are beginning to fade under the love of her new husband. When Alan returns to Garfield, Pam must learn that buried secrets and carefully cultivated indifference do not equal forgiveness.Alan Archer has returned to Garfield with a new wife and a terminal heart condition. His mission? To leave a Christian legacy for his children and to gain Pam’s forgiveness for the sins of his past. Two hearts hang in the balance waiting for the delicate touch of God’s healing hands.
303 pages, Paperback
First published April 10, 2014
289 people are currently reading
366 people want to read
About the author
Sharon Srock
44 books299 followersSmall-town Oklahoma and the friendships they produce are embedded in Sharon Srock’s heart. After spending her first fifteen years on the move, living in fourteen homes and attending thirteen schools, she landed in a tiny central Oklahoma community and made it her own. As someone who’s been blessed to be a part of the same hometown church for more than five decades, Sharon writes stories of hope built from her own unique perspective—stories that demonstrate a sisterhood formed not by blood but by heart, where ordinary women are able to do extraordinary things thanks to the friends who surround them and the faith that pulls them through. Sharon still lives in the middle of nowhere, Oklahoma, with her husband and three very large dogs. When she isn’t writing, she loves to read, cook, and travel. One of these days, she’s going to figure out how to do all three at the same time.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
November 2, 2017
To be honest, I was disappointed with this book. I had really liked the first book in this series, the 2nd book was good except for one small scene, but this one isn't one I'll be reading again.
What I liked:
I liked that the characters from the other books were pulled into this story.
I liked Harrison.
I really enjoy this authors writing style.
Things I didn't like:
I did not like the sibling bickering, picking on each other, and arguing. It was all treated as though it was normal and all siblings act that way. News Flash–They don't.
There was one "love scene" between a husband and wife that was going beyond anything I was comfortable with. It wasn't even needed in my opinion, and that was enough to know I wouldn't recommend the book.
While this book dealt with a tough issue (emotional abuse and forgiving the abuser), I kept waiting for someone to tell Pam that no, she couldn't forgive Alan, but Christ could. It didn't happen. It seemed as though everyone expected her to forgive instead of pointing her to the only One who could truly forgive.
So, overall, this is not a book I'll reread or recommend. But I am willing to try some other books by this author as I've really enjoyed some.
What I liked:
I liked that the characters from the other books were pulled into this story.
I liked Harrison.
I really enjoy this authors writing style.
Things I didn't like:
I did not like the sibling bickering, picking on each other, and arguing. It was all treated as though it was normal and all siblings act that way. News Flash–They don't.
There was one "love scene" between a husband and wife that was going beyond anything I was comfortable with. It wasn't even needed in my opinion, and that was enough to know I wouldn't recommend the book.
While this book dealt with a tough issue (emotional abuse and forgiving the abuser), I kept waiting for someone to tell Pam that no, she couldn't forgive Alan, but Christ could. It didn't happen. It seemed as though everyone expected her to forgive instead of pointing her to the only One who could truly forgive.
So, overall, this is not a book I'll reread or recommend. But I am willing to try some other books by this author as I've really enjoyed some.
November 25, 2022
3 ⭐⭐⭐ - OK, or decent reads.
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I have a big problem with the act of forgiving. Forgive maybe, but never forget. Our heroine suffered a lot and was psychologically affected by her ex-husband's actions. I think that with time and a lot of soul-searching, maybe she would have processed everything she went through and come to the conclusion that forgiveness would be an option for herself to overcome everything that happened.
But when a presence is forced upon her that for her is toxic and reopens still fresh wounds, I don't think it's very appropriate for her mental well-being.
I really felt all the heroine's anguish and discomfort and sympathized with her.
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I have a big problem with the act of forgiving. Forgive maybe, but never forget. Our heroine suffered a lot and was psychologically affected by her ex-husband's actions. I think that with time and a lot of soul-searching, maybe she would have processed everything she went through and come to the conclusion that forgiveness would be an option for herself to overcome everything that happened.
But when a presence is forced upon her that for her is toxic and reopens still fresh wounds, I don't think it's very appropriate for her mental well-being.
I really felt all the heroine's anguish and discomfort and sympathized with her.
"Oh, I forgot. This is Alan 'No-Brain' Archer we're talking about. He doesn't think. He just plows ahead with whatever piece of stupidity that feels good to him at the moment."
April 4, 2014
Pam, by Sharon Srock. 5*****
Sharon, you have done it again, you never cease to amaze me with your stories and characters! Pam, #3, in the Women of Valley View collection, is no exception!
A story of commitment, feelings of failure, dedication to God and family, Pam has shown so much courage and strength battling the struggle of divorce, pain and raising her children on her own. She will teach all of us readers, young and elder, that in life there will be heartache, times in which you won't know how to handle a situation, and times you feel like you lost all hope. She shows us through her own struggles that if you lean on God, our Father, you will overcome, you will conquer, you will become stronger. I fell in love with her character and you will too.
Pam's story is not only emotional but inspiring. It shows you both sides of a failed commitment between loved ones. Alan, oh sweet Alan, I didn't like you at first, but through this story, you showed my heart how a betrayal can turn to love and forgiveness, all with the power of prayer and the guidance of following your heart with God by your side. You stole my heart sweet man!
Friends, you will treasure Pam, her family and their story as well as catch up on the characters from books #1 & #2, Callie & Terri. You will shed a tear often, you will laugh often, and you will very touched! Happy reading one of the best series in the world!
Thank you, Sharon, for another powerful novel!
Sharon, you have done it again, you never cease to amaze me with your stories and characters! Pam, #3, in the Women of Valley View collection, is no exception!
A story of commitment, feelings of failure, dedication to God and family, Pam has shown so much courage and strength battling the struggle of divorce, pain and raising her children on her own. She will teach all of us readers, young and elder, that in life there will be heartache, times in which you won't know how to handle a situation, and times you feel like you lost all hope. She shows us through her own struggles that if you lean on God, our Father, you will overcome, you will conquer, you will become stronger. I fell in love with her character and you will too.
Pam's story is not only emotional but inspiring. It shows you both sides of a failed commitment between loved ones. Alan, oh sweet Alan, I didn't like you at first, but through this story, you showed my heart how a betrayal can turn to love and forgiveness, all with the power of prayer and the guidance of following your heart with God by your side. You stole my heart sweet man!
Friends, you will treasure Pam, her family and their story as well as catch up on the characters from books #1 & #2, Callie & Terri. You will shed a tear often, you will laugh often, and you will very touched! Happy reading one of the best series in the world!
Thank you, Sharon, for another powerful novel!
March 27, 2014
“Pam” is book three of The Women of Valley Series. Sharon Srock has written a beautiful story about family and learning to forgive and appreciate life. Remarried with a wonderful and caring husband, Pam still hasn’t gotten over the emotional abuse from her first husband, Alan. After learning that Alan is moving back to the community to be closer to their children and hoping to make amends with Pam, she is furious. This story is a prime example of how one needs to forgive in order to heal and lead a happy life. One must learn to move beyond the heartaches of the past and focus on the future.
This book tackles some pretty difficult issues and does so admirably. From marriage and commitment, to death and step-parenting we see it all from varying perspectives. I connected immediately with Pam because this was such a true to life story. This is a beautifully written story that I couldn’t wait to get back to each and every day. It is an emotionally charged story with complex and memorable characters. It is part of the series but it certainly can be read as a standalone.
I read all three books in the series and would highly recommend all of them.
This book tackles some pretty difficult issues and does so admirably. From marriage and commitment, to death and step-parenting we see it all from varying perspectives. I connected immediately with Pam because this was such a true to life story. This is a beautifully written story that I couldn’t wait to get back to each and every day. It is an emotionally charged story with complex and memorable characters. It is part of the series but it certainly can be read as a standalone.
I read all three books in the series and would highly recommend all of them.
April 6, 2014
Pam
By: Sharon Srock
Pam is book three of a series by Sharon Srock. I loved the story. The book kept me glued to it there was no putting it down. Wonderful characters. Pam is divorced. Her husband was abusive to her. After all the years together thinking they would always be together broke apart. It has been four years and Alan moves back to town with his new wife and with a health problem. Pam can't figure out why did he come back to town. It his really messing with her emotions and well being. What could he possibly want? She is happily married and has moved on with her life and her kids. Can she do the Christian thing and forgive him? I love the Christian values over tuff subjects that Sharon puts in her books. Warning have tissues. 5 Star book.
By: Sharon Srock
Pam is book three of a series by Sharon Srock. I loved the story. The book kept me glued to it there was no putting it down. Wonderful characters. Pam is divorced. Her husband was abusive to her. After all the years together thinking they would always be together broke apart. It has been four years and Alan moves back to town with his new wife and with a health problem. Pam can't figure out why did he come back to town. It his really messing with her emotions and well being. What could he possibly want? She is happily married and has moved on with her life and her kids. Can she do the Christian thing and forgive him? I love the Christian values over tuff subjects that Sharon puts in her books. Warning have tissues. 5 Star book.
April 6, 2014
Sharon Srock has done it again with this book. What I love about these Valley View books is that the women depicted are all normal women. They're flawed and funny and angry and everything else you can think of. They're like the kinds of women I'd like to be friends with. Heck, they're like my own friends. And yet they do extraordinary things, and in this book, Pam does an amazing thing. All divorce is hard, but in this case, she has the right to be angry--and to stay angry forever. Watching Pam go from devastated to...well, I won't give it away, but let's just stay, it's a story you don't want to miss.
November 9, 2025
Sharon has done it again, yall! The Women of Valley View has quickly became one of my favorite Christian Fiction family/friend series. I didn’t know of/ever think I’d enjoy a series similar to Karen Kingsbury’s Baxter series but I do! It’s different though and each book deals with different themes that give each book a unique twist while still getting to see the characters you come to love. Sharon is fantastic at writing books that have excellent comedy and sweet romantic/friendship moments that provide a nice break from the more serious themes. One scene out of many in PAM that I especially love is when Alan’s old best friends (who’re the husbands of Pam’s friends) agree to keep his secret and one of them wonders if they can take a vow of silence and not speak to their wives for some time. If it’s a religious reason they might be for it 😂😂 Funny moments like this helped me get through the parts that I had to stop myself before I sobbed. This book both helped me with my own heart and also broke it in pieces. But I’d read it again happily lol.
I’m also so happy that Sharon included Alan, Kate, and Patrick’s POVs to the story! If it was only in Pam’s POV I would’ve completely backed up her immediate reaction and attitude towards Alan because I wouldn’t get to see him as he is now. And while I understand why she reacted the way she did at first, because of getting the other three POVs, I found myself being annoyed with Pam and downright angry at one scene and a mean comment she made to Kate. I was also heartbroken at the pain Alan’s secret brings his wife, stepson, and him. I can say it ended with me loving Pam again (😂🙂) and enjoying ALL of the characters. Life is precious. Family and friends are precious. And forgiving someone really does heal us. Holding onto that pain/bitterness does you no good.
I’m also so happy that Sharon included Alan, Kate, and Patrick’s POVs to the story! If it was only in Pam’s POV I would’ve completely backed up her immediate reaction and attitude towards Alan because I wouldn’t get to see him as he is now. And while I understand why she reacted the way she did at first, because of getting the other three POVs, I found myself being annoyed with Pam and downright angry at one scene and a mean comment she made to Kate. I was also heartbroken at the pain Alan’s secret brings his wife, stepson, and him. I can say it ended with me loving Pam again (😂🙂) and enjoying ALL of the characters. Life is precious. Family and friends are precious. And forgiving someone really does heal us. Holding onto that pain/bitterness does you no good.
June 27, 2019
Written by Sharon Srock, Pam is the third book in the Women of Valley View series.
Pam, the main character in this book, is struggling with forgiveness after an abusive ex-husband unexpectedly shows up. Although she is now happily remarried to a great husband, Alan's return threatens to shatter the wall she has built for herself after he humiliated her - and quite frankly - broke her heart.
This story really touched at my heart strings. Even though I could not relate to divorce, this story makes you live through the heartache Pam felt. You can feel every emotion she is experiencing, loss of her dreams, fear for her children, acceptance and finally welcoming of extended family.
Divorce, step-parenting, the different forms of abuse and the ultimate theme of forgiveness are all entwined to pack this book with a powerful punch.
I highly recommend, not only this book, but the whole series. Women of Valley View is packed with strong, motivated and God-fearing women. It makes for a refreshing read.
Pam, the main character in this book, is struggling with forgiveness after an abusive ex-husband unexpectedly shows up. Although she is now happily remarried to a great husband, Alan's return threatens to shatter the wall she has built for herself after he humiliated her - and quite frankly - broke her heart.
This story really touched at my heart strings. Even though I could not relate to divorce, this story makes you live through the heartache Pam felt. You can feel every emotion she is experiencing, loss of her dreams, fear for her children, acceptance and finally welcoming of extended family.
Divorce, step-parenting, the different forms of abuse and the ultimate theme of forgiveness are all entwined to pack this book with a powerful punch.
I highly recommend, not only this book, but the whole series. Women of Valley View is packed with strong, motivated and God-fearing women. It makes for a refreshing read.
July 7, 2021
What an emotional roller-coaster ride this book was! Sharon Srock dares to take on the difficult and heart-wrenching situations that would make you question God, your faith, your friends and even your family. This book confronts the very real struggle to truly forgive someone who has subjected you to emotional abuse, adultery, and the annihilation of the happy home Pam thought she had. The journey to complete healing seemed impossible and no one seemed to understand. These characters are developed so well that feel like real people instead of characters in a book and you find yourself not only wanting to pray for them but to pray with them! Please invest in a box of tissues before reading this book!
August 15, 2017
The story of Pam is the third book in The Women of Valley View series, and I can honestly say I've loved every installment. I've grown attached to the characters, and I want to keep reading the rest of the series! Reading about Pam and her horrible past made me feel for her; and when she had to face the person who made her suffer - her ex-husband - I wondered how she'd handle it. I appreciate that she wasn't perfect in her attitude and behavior at first. It was realistic. Yet I loved how her faith, friends, and family counseled her through this difficult time.
Also, I enjoyed reading about a side story - Samantha and Patrick - and look forward to reading their story!
Also, I enjoyed reading about a side story - Samantha and Patrick - and look forward to reading their story!
November 8, 2019
If you haven't been keeping up, The Women of Valley View is about (initially at least) 4 women and their husbands that attend Valley View Church and have a Ladies Bible Study at one of their homes on Monday nights. Each story focuses on one of the ladies; either back story or going forward. This one is about Pam and you are going to have to read it yourself. What I appreciate about the writer is that she keeps the focus on staying in touch with Christ and each other. It's about the body of Christ at it's best.
March 12, 2020
Forgiveness
I recommend this story and book. It starts out a woman named pam is dismayed that her husband alan was having a fling with his secretary. It caused pam to turn to pills to end her life but a friend harrison finds her and gets her to hospital in time. She goes now stays where she gets help but she keeps telling drs she is fine. She marries harrison. She has two children from alan her ex. She finds her faith again during her journey . You must read this book how God can help us in our lifes.
I recommend this story and book. It starts out a woman named pam is dismayed that her husband alan was having a fling with his secretary. It caused pam to turn to pills to end her life but a friend harrison finds her and gets her to hospital in time. She goes now stays where she gets help but she keeps telling drs she is fine. She marries harrison. She has two children from alan her ex. She finds her faith again during her journey . You must read this book how God can help us in our lifes.
December 7, 2022
I really enjoyed this book! Gave great grovel by the former ex cheating husband and really showed how he suffered after the affair by moving away from his kids. I loved the dual POV because you really get a glimpse into many of the main characters' thoughts but I thought it an odd omission we never find out if the cheating ex Alan still had romantic feelings for Pam. The book made it quite clear he just messed up and really regretted his actions, not that they had a failing marriage, and we certainly got Pam's feelings about Alan but I don't think we ever did vice versa.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 22, 2022
Pam and Harrison; Kate and Alan
Pam and Alan had two wonderful children together. They had an ugly marriage the 4th year of their marriage and divorced. Pam & Harrison wow she still carried a lot of baggage but they were okay. Kate met Alan after he got his life straight and then their came marriage and her son Patrick finally had a great father. Bring a lot of Kleenex with you as you read this wonderful wonderful book.
Pam and Alan had two wonderful children together. They had an ugly marriage the 4th year of their marriage and divorced. Pam & Harrison wow she still carried a lot of baggage but they were okay. Kate met Alan after he got his life straight and then their came marriage and her son Patrick finally had a great father. Bring a lot of Kleenex with you as you read this wonderful wonderful book.
April 22, 2023
Real life and forgiveness
Wow, this was a very impactful story about God’s forgiveness and forgiving others. Among other themes. Bring Kleenex! But it was such a good book! We also get glimpses of Samantha’s story, which is next in line. I like that we see the families and ladies Bible study group and the caring, sharing, praying. They are all such good close friends/families!
Wow, this was a very impactful story about God’s forgiveness and forgiving others. Among other themes. Bring Kleenex! But it was such a good book! We also get glimpses of Samantha’s story, which is next in line. I like that we see the families and ladies Bible study group and the caring, sharing, praying. They are all such good close friends/families!
May 23, 2017
A struggle to forgive
Excellent story line. Well written. Consistent behavior by characters. This is a heart wrenching story of forgiveness sought for great wrongs done and the struggle by the main character to give it. A story reflecting how God works in the hearts of believers in Christ. Be sure to keep a box of tissues nearby.
Excellent story line. Well written. Consistent behavior by characters. This is a heart wrenching story of forgiveness sought for great wrongs done and the struggle by the main character to give it. A story reflecting how God works in the hearts of believers in Christ. Be sure to keep a box of tissues nearby.
August 23, 2017
Forgiveness at its Highest
This is a definite tear jerker. Well written with the vital concept of forgiveness covered very well. No trite or dogmatic phrases, this book deals with real people and real life. I especially like how this author did not just tout the need for forgiveness while stuffing emotions. Well conceived and covered. Nice read!
This is a definite tear jerker. Well written with the vital concept of forgiveness covered very well. No trite or dogmatic phrases, this book deals with real people and real life. I especially like how this author did not just tout the need for forgiveness while stuffing emotions. Well conceived and covered. Nice read!
August 31, 2017
Hard forgiveness
Not a fun story but one that shows how even the most unforgivable people might be forgiven, or rather, how it needs to be done, and can be done, when it's tough. Pretty happy ending, although I hoped Alan would remember Pam too. I loved the characters, especially the youth pastor. Well done!
Not a fun story but one that shows how even the most unforgivable people might be forgiven, or rather, how it needs to be done, and can be done, when it's tough. Pretty happy ending, although I hoped Alan would remember Pam too. I loved the characters, especially the youth pastor. Well done!
January 15, 2018
Pam’s story is truly amazing. The things Alan put Pam through will have you on the edge of your seat waiting to see what happens next. The characters in this book are all very special people. You will feel God working throughout this whole book. I had the honor to review this book for the author for a honest review.
May 10, 2018
True forgiveness.
Author Sharon Stock wrote a primer on the choice to forgive. She showed the difference of trying to forgive by her own strength to forgiving through strength o my God can give. At first I was thinking, enough Pam, forgive Alan and move on! Ms. Stock unfolded a beautiful story of forgiveness God' s way. A good read!
Author Sharon Stock wrote a primer on the choice to forgive. She showed the difference of trying to forgive by her own strength to forgiving through strength o my God can give. At first I was thinking, enough Pam, forgive Alan and move on! Ms. Stock unfolded a beautiful story of forgiveness God' s way. A good read!
June 18, 2018
This is a beautiful story of unconditional forgiveness!! Pam haas gone through many hurts and has a difficult time offering forgiveness. When she comes face to face with the need to forgive, you wonder whether or not she will. Ane this does not only affect Pam, it affects the entire community. Great read!!! Looking forward to the next book.
Sharon Srock is a wonderful story teller!!!
Sharon Srock is a wonderful story teller!!!
October 22, 2022
Pam women of valley view
I really like that the characters were so realistic and that they were very much in tune with problems we face in society today. It was so insightful and inspirational dealing with divorce and death situations. I'd recommend this book to an audience that reads good Christian books about real life situations.
I really like that the characters were so realistic and that they were very much in tune with problems we face in society today. It was so insightful and inspirational dealing with divorce and death situations. I'd recommend this book to an audience that reads good Christian books about real life situations.
August 11, 2017
Lots of tears
Sharon has a distinctive style that will lift you up and believe that these characters actually exist and live in a town not so very far away. I think I would like to live there also. Men and women who actually believe and live a spiritual life. Phenomenal
Sharon has a distinctive style that will lift you up and believe that these characters actually exist and live in a town not so very far away. I think I would like to live there also. Men and women who actually believe and live a spiritual life. Phenomenal
August 13, 2017
Loved this book
What a great book. Its always nice to read a great book and not have skip over language or sex. This book brought me a feeling of peace knowing that in the end we are all God's .
What a great book. Its always nice to read a great book and not have skip over language or sex. This book brought me a feeling of peace knowing that in the end we are all God's .
August 21, 2017
A wonderful christian romance with real life details. Well worth reading. Pam must overcome her anger and welcome her former husband back to town. He has come back with a new wife and a step-son whom he has adopted. He wants to apologize for his actions because he is dying.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 22, 2017
Forgiveness
I haven't cried this much in awhile. This story told so much more about Pam and what she experienced. And she drew her strength from God, her family and her close friends.
I haven't cried this much in awhile. This story told so much more about Pam and what she experienced. And she drew her strength from God, her family and her close friends.
September 6, 2017
Kleenex a MUST!
What lovable, REAL characters inhabit Sharon Srock's tales, and what REAL lessons she teaches without a hint of preaching! Can't wait to read her next book; Srock's become an author I enjoy sharing with anyone looking for a recommendation for compelling reading.
What lovable, REAL characters inhabit Sharon Srock's tales, and what REAL lessons she teaches without a hint of preaching! Can't wait to read her next book; Srock's become an author I enjoy sharing with anyone looking for a recommendation for compelling reading.
September 30, 2017
I confess, I bought this book because the title was Pam.
I'm a Pam.
It was easy to read, engaging, and touched on many important issues.
I didn't completely understand why her ex's new wife was willing to pull up roots and completely move to a new place.
I'm a Pam.
It was easy to read, engaging, and touched on many important issues.
I didn't completely understand why her ex's new wife was willing to pull up roots and completely move to a new place.
September 8, 2018
Pam
This was my first book by this author and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was well written and has a great message. I highly recommend it to anyone who has gone through a nasty divorce or the loss of a loved one.
This was my first book by this author and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was well written and has a great message. I highly recommend it to anyone who has gone through a nasty divorce or the loss of a loved one.
April 18, 2021
This book has been the hardest to read so far. While I've not been a victim of abuse, it's hard to read stories where the characters are. I still give it 5 stars because it's such a good story. I still have questions about Patrick and Sam!! Great job again Sharon!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews