That Church Life

by Teresa B. Howell

The Church Gal Crew is leading the way to Salvation at Mt. Zion Holiness Church. Feisty Natalia Freemon is the “head” of the crew. Rebellious and outspoken, she has no problems challenging the church status quo. Years later however, her loss of faith will tragically impact her life.
Michelle Hanks, a country girl from a hardworking farm family is the peacemaker and “soul” of the crew. Although struggling with self-confidence she is wise beyond her years and can’t wait to escape the farm life and find success; even if it costs her soul.
Missy Jones, the “heart” of the crew, has the face of an angel and a voice sent from heaven. A pastor’s daughter raised in the church, Missy loves the ministry and her place in it. But the flesh is tempting, especially when it comes in the form of sexy church musician and Mt. Zion playboy Tommy.
In spite of her dedication to the word, Missy falls hard for Tommy, and then falls out of favor with the church. Trapped in a cycle of relationship abuse, Missy’s world is falling apart until Beanie, a reformed stick-up man turned Evangelist, shows her real love. But when tragedy strikes, Missy is torn between the truth, that could jeopardize every-thing she loves, or a lie that could be her damnation.
These three best friends drift away from each other and the church but come back together through spiritual downfall, relationship crises, drug addiction, and even murder. Can the crew survive the drama involved in That Church Life?

Genres: Christian Fiction

258 pages, ebook

Published June 9, 2016

About the author

Teresa B. Howell graduated from North Carolina Central University with a BA in Psychology and MA's in Special Education and School Administration. It was in her earlier years of education that she discovered her craft. After taking an English class, one of her professors read a short story she created and encouraged her to write!

Articles about her unique fiction writing have been published in The Huff Post, CEO Magazine, UBAWA, The Herald Sun, The New and Observer, The Carolina Times, Urban Tymes, and Strawberry Lit magazine.

Teresa has also made several appearances on Fox 16, Virginia CBS affiliate, and over 55 major radio shows across the country.

Her accolades extend with being chosen as Diamonds Literary World's top 20 books in 2016, Conversations magazine top 50 books in 2017, and Sistahs Place magazine 2017 Author pick of the year.

Her current home is in North Carolina, where he lives with her husband and children.

Reviews

[Arlena · Rating 5 out of 5]

Title: That Church Life
Author: Teresa Howell
Publisher: T. H.
Series: # 1
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"That Church Life" by Teresa Howell

My Thoughts....

This was a good read about the Church life of three good friends known as 'the Church Gal Crew.' For Missy who was a minister, Natalia was a flight attendant and then their was Michelle well let's just say she was one with lots of secrets about her life. Now, we don't want to leave out the Pastor who had so many secrets and skeletons of his own. Now, when all of these characters come together be ready for secrets that will come out, along with murder and scandal that will really shake up the 'Church life's of these characters. What will happen when the skeletons and secrets all start coming out? Well, I will say the ending will definitely leave the reader with a cliffhanger where you will have to pick up the next series "That Church Life # 2" to get the next part of this intriguing Christian fiction story.

[Pamela Johnston Ward · Rating 5 out of 5]

Church life

If you are into Christian fiction, then this is the book for you. It's a very refreshing change from the street life novels that I usually read. I was drawn into the story from the very first chapter. The storyline had a nice smooth flow and I felt like I had become a part of the story. You would be surprised at all of the drama that happens in the church. There is a lesson to be learned about faith and morals on these pages. I highly recommend this read.

[Tiffany · Rating 4 out of 5]

I can say this book started off very disoriented. It was hard to stay focused in the beginning. I do understand the story is about Missy but I feel there wasn't enough background story about others in the book to understand why they acted certain ways about certain events. Other than that the book was good it was almost a page turner I do look forward to the second book. I feel like that if a little more is added to the next book it could easily get 5 stars.

[Allyson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great storyline! The drama captures you and draws you in from the very first page. This was my first read by Teresa and I can imagine this author's craft will only get better with time.

[LaToya Murchison · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book from beginning to end. It is a true page turner and I found it hard to put it down. Author Teresa B. Howell did a great job in revealing some of the issues that happen within the church that no one like to talk about. That Church Life was centered around Missy who is the main character in the book. Missy lived the lived for the church except for when her crazy boyfriend Tommy was added to the equation. Tommy cared about no one and was out to get whatever he could no matter who he hurt. He Father Pastor Jones lived to have the proper image for the church and had a closet full of secrets that were slowing revealed in this book. One of my favorite parts in the book happened when she went to Jamaica with her friends and found love. I am looking forward to reading book 2.
LaToya Murchison Author of Anika's Story (Novelette)

[Ellowyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

That Church Life is a book that was full of drama. The old saying is the past always finds a way of resurfacing. The characters in this book struggle with issues from the past, bad relationships, self esteem issues, rape and worrying about what others think of them. I must admit when I started reading this book I was very confused and put the book down several times before I made myself continue to read it. Once I made myself finish reading this book the story actually got better. I am looking forward to reading more books from this author.

[T.H. Moore · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've been reaching outside of my normal genre's this year and this was my first Christian novel I've ever read and I'm glad I did. The story was good and had good suspense that kept you engaged and wanting to read more. I grew up in the church so I recognized a lot of the characters in my the story of my life. Nice work! And I see a part two is coming out so can't wait to see what's in store with Mrs. Howell's new book! :-)

[Angela S · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow

I was initially weirded out at the beginning but I stuck with it. Glad I did. I enjoyed how Teresa took a subject that most authors don't want to address and kept it light but with a purpose. She has the right mix of drama, church and family! I can't wait to read That Church Life 2!

[Charlotte · Rating 5 out of 5]

Started off slow for me but I'm glad I stuck with it. Great read!! I'm ready for part 2 because I would like to know what Ms Olivia have up her sleeve.

[Michelle Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great story

This was a great story full of drama. I cannot wait to see what Olivia does next and how the girls will get out of this.

[Robert White · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading new version couldn't put this book down. love it can't wait for part 2 that Olivia a hot mess.

[Patty · Rating 5 out of 5]

That Church LIfe
Written by Teresa B
Narrated by Bahni Turpin

What a story! This one had me hooked from the first chapter. Anything that has a church theme like this, adds a challenge and a story that is unexpected keeps me entertained. This first installment lets us live through Missy Jones, daughter of the Pastor. You always think their life is squeaky clean, happy and good, but things are not always as they appear. As Missy becomes more involved and is getting ready to take things over, the past comes to haunt her. With her two friends and her father, we have a closet full of secrets that is about to open, Things are crazy, interesting and keep us on the edge as all the skeletons surface. And the best part? It's not the end, as Teresa B has left us wide open for book 2! This book flows like a soap opea, kept me entertained and wanting more.

Bahni Turpin narrates this book to perfection. What a talent she is! So many voices, each with their own personality and fitting each character. I thought she did an amazing job brining this segment of the story to life, and am looking forward to the next episode!

[Blaque Diamond · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very good read. Full of suspense and drama. I wonder who killed Tommy. I am looking forward to reading the second book in the series.

[Lashonda Beauregard · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was looking for a good Christian fiction book to read and this book didn't disappoint. The beginning of the book was suspenseful, there was mystery and it pulled you in. I liked the author's use of bible scriptures surrounding the challenges the characters were going through just like in real life people try to stay positive and hold on to their faith. Good book filled with drama, suspense, and faith. Looking forward to reading the other books in the series.

[LaChelle Weaver · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great debut from this author! That Church Life had me hooked. I loved that it was set in my hometown of Durham, NC. And that ending...wow! A definite page-turner with a few twists. I can't wait for the next book. Teresa B Howell is definitely an author to watch.

[Sheena B · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fast pace...truly a page turner.

[Lyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

That Churh Life was a good a detailed story. It was fiction yet a transparent reality of some of the goings on that take place in congregations, especially with church leadership. The story started out on a high note with a possible murder, that was gritty and mail biting. It was fast paced until well into the first few chapters. After that it slowed down too much and became humdrum for me. I continued on and it picked up again closer to the end.  I loved the storyline. I would have liked to see more of the the drama with the main character and her crazy love interest who was definitely on crazy with is obsession but that was a hit and miss. I will definitely read more by Teresa B. I'm looking forward to the next installment.  As for the flow of the read, it was okay. I give it a 4 star because I felt the book was not that absolute page turned for me. I just hope the next installment hooks and keeps me wanting more. Needs more in depth action diolauge.

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book started off a bit slow, but picked up. This book is about three young ladies who are known as the Church Gal Crew, Natalia is the head of the crew, very outspoken young lady. Michelle is the peacemaker of the group and don’t like drama. Missy is the heart of the crew, who has a wonderful voice. Missy loves the Lord, and felt in love with Mr. Tommy, who is no good for her. Missy feels that she is trapped into this relationship with Tommy. She knows that he is no good for her, but afraid to let go. There are secrets that will be revealed. Good book.

[ShayBooks · Rating 3 out of 5]

Wow !! Church Folks.

That Church Life by Teresa B. Howell is her debut novel about Missy Jones and her friends. This book had some of everything in it, drama, lies, lust and secrets. At times I could not follow where the author was going,the book was all over the place and some of the story line was not consistent with sequence of events.I did however get into the book towards the last few chapters and I am eager to know how their lives will turn out.

[jackie woods · Rating 5 out of 5]

That Church Life

I wouldnt chage anything. But i do believe Pastors Jones have more dirty laundry to share. Sis. Mary is a trip. She teminds me about the ladies sitting on the front tow and the Deacons looking und er r their clothes. But i loved it book 2 is going to be dynamite.

[Regina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good Reading

I like this book. The characters were so real. The storyline was good not boring at all. I hope book 2 is coming soon.

[Tonja Collins]

This was an awesome read as if it has actually happened in real life.

[Shannan Harper · Rating 4 out of 5]

Flight Attendant Natalia Freeman, Musician Michelle Hanks and preacher Missy Jones are three childhood friends known as the Church Gal Crew from Mt. Zion Holiness Church. Natalia is the head and the loudest of the crew, and hasn’t yet learned how not to say everything that comes to mind Her faith has been rocked because of her past, so she’s leery around certain church folks. Michelle, is the soft spoken peacemaker of the group, but is hiding a tragic event from her past that has kept her bound mentally and emotionally. Missy, the pastor’s daughter is involved with a lot of drama involving her philandering and abusive boyfriend Tommy, until she goes to Jamaica, and is swept off her feet by a native Christian man.
Missy’s father, Pastor Jones, has several skeletons in his closet, especially one involving his daughter, Missy, but him retiring will not keep them hidden. All three friends stick together through thick and through, all the while dealing with drama, lies, and even murder.
A great story full of drama, secrets and what is going to happen next with a little romance mixed in. This was a very enjoyable story line, and a very interesting read. Not the normal Christian fiction like I’m used to. The characters were extremely flawed and made mistakes, but did attempt to do right, as well as repent and ask for forgiveness. The author also tackled issues not often talked about in regards to Christians. I can’t wait to read book 2 in the series.

[Tanisha Stewart · Rating 4 out of 5]

‘That Church Life’ was about the wild and crazy life of Missy Jones, the daughter of a famous televangelist with a whole host of secrets. Missy is caught up in a toxic relationship that she is trying to break free from, with the help of her trusted friends, Natalia and Michelle. Missy encounters numerous hardships, surprises, and struggles as she goes on her journey, all the way to the tragic end…

I think this book was good in some areas, but needed work in others. On the one hand, I think the author did great with being very descriptive in various scenes, however, I feel like the fact that Missy was allowed to be a leader in the church while living in blatant sin was handled too lightly. Also, multiple aspects of the story were very unrealistic.

Overall, the author is a good writer – this book just needed some more work.

[Kiera · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author has given us a very entertaining, well-written book, and tackled some very sensitive issues present in some churches, a peek at “behind the scenes”, if you will. We sometimes forget that church folk are human and have real “everyday” life issues like us “regular” folks. It’s the perfect mix of drama, suspense, “on the edge of your seat thrills, and good old-fashioned romance. Teresa had me shaking my head, grinning and laughing in some parts, stuck in my chair with my mouth open in others.. I read this book in its entirety in one sitting. I look forward to reading the next book, to see what happens next. Bravo, Author Howell and I pray God blesses you to continue helping and reaching others through the sharing of your gift to touch hearts and heal.

[MinorityReport_TV · Rating 3 out of 5]

From beginning to end, That Church Life has you on the edge of your pew. ​What made this book a page turner: Three ladies on different spiritual paths that come to a head at the beginning of a major tragedy. The book unfolds as Missy, the preachers kid and heir to the megachurch throne is broken, bloody and on the run in these Durham, North Carolina streets! Please read full review... at MinorityReportTVShow dot com

[Rhoneshia L. · Rating 3 out of 5]

I would like to start by saying the book started out very confusing. It was a little hard to follow along. The story did get easier to follow a couple of chapters in. I feel that some of the story / characters could have been more developed. I would have loved to hear more about Missy and Tommy's relationship (how it got started, when did things go wrong, etc..). I would have also liked to read more about the relationship she has with her girls (a little more background).
I am normally able to guess what happens next; however, the author did an excellent job with the plot twists. I was not expecting those.

[Michelle Lynn Stephens · Rating 4 out of 5]

Teresa B. Howell takes us to church while mixing a touch of sisterhood with some serious relationship drama and scandalous family secrets. Before concluding with a dramatic cliffhanger, the past collides with the present, then threatens to destroy a promising future. This book exhibits humorous writing with moments of suspense and great attention to detail. I am looking forward to reading the sequel.

[Brandi Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I looked at the title and the cover, I knew it had to be interesting. The author did a great job keeping my attention with the continued suspense. I was captured by the characters because they seemed so familiar to me. But the drama...oh the drama, had me wondering if the people I know have these kind of hidden secrets. LOL. But seriously, this is a wonderful book and part two has started off GREAT! I can't wait to finish it. Great job Mrs. Teresa B. Howell.

[Jan Robinson · Rating 1 out of 5]

Don't Waste Your Time!

There is no God in this book listed under Christian fiction. Instead you find every negative stereotype of the church. There is a pastor who is in it for his own gain. A choir director who is a womanizer, abuser and a rapist. Church members who at best can be described as carnal. And, though must of the story takes place in and around church and church people reverence for God is never portrayed.