The Debt

by Angela Elwell Hunt

After fleeing a painful and compromising past, Emma Rose Howard settled eagerly into the role of a pastor's wife. She and her husband, Abel, dedicated themselves to parenting a mega-church and influenced thousands of lives through its related ministries.

But when Emma Rose receives a phone call from a living, breathing remnant of her troubled past, she finds herself wondering if something in her life is woefully out of balance. The presence of this unexpected intruder soon threatens everything Emma Rose has believed about her calling, her marriage, and her relationship with God.

The Debt not only invites readers to embrace the painful heartache and incomparable joy that accompany a soul's redemption, but it challenges us to follow Christ to new and unexpected places.

Genres: Christian Fiction, Fiction, Christian, Contemporary, Book Club, Audiobook, Faith

368 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2004

About the author

Christy-Award winner Angela Hunt writes for readers who have learned to expect the unexpected in novels from this versatile author. With nearly six million copies of her books sold worldwide, she is the best-selling author of more than 165 works ranging from picture books (The Tale of Three Trees) to novels.

Now that her two children are grown, Angie and her husband live in Florida with Very Big Dogs (a direct result of watching Turner and Hooch and Sandlot too many times). This affinity for mastiffs has not been without its rewards--one of their dogs was featured on Live with Regis and Kelly as the second-largest canine in America. Their dog received this dubious honor after an all-expenses-paid trip to Manhattan for the dog and the Hunts, complete with VIP air travel and a stretch limo in which they toured New York City.

Afterward, the dog gave out pawtographs at the airport.

Angela admits to being fascinated by animals, medicine, psychology, unexplained phenomena, and “just about everything” except sports. Books, she says, have always shaped her life— in the fifth grade she learned how to flirt from reading Gone with the Wind.

Her books have won the coveted Christy Award, several Angel Awards from Excellence in Media, and the Gold and Silver Medallions from Foreword Magazine’s Book of the Year Award. In 2007, her novel The Note was featured as a Christmas movie on the Hallmark channel. Romantic Times Book Club presented her with a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2006, and American Christian Fiction Writers bestowed the same award in 2019.

In 2006, Angela completed her Master of Biblical Studies in Theology degree and completed her second doctorate in 2015. When she’s not home reading or writing, Angie often travels to teach writing workshops at schools and writers’ conferences. And to talk about her dogs, of course.

Reviews

[Randy Alcorn]

The Debt is a powerful story, captivating and superbly written. I couldn’t put it down. Angela Hunt touched my heart. When I finished, I thanked Jesus for speaking to me. That’s the highest compliment I can pay any book.

[Carol Bailey · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW!!! is all that I can say. God really brought a lot of things into focus with this book. We as Christians forget that there are people in this world that are hurting and they live next door to us and some are homeless. WE need to get out of our little hedged fortresses and find those people and share the love of Jesus with them.

[ANNETTE · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this book in the "Lending Library" A well written novel with plenty of spiritual wisdom about reaching out of our comfort zone and following God.
Loved it!

[Tonya · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic inspiring book. Emma Rose is the wife of a tv preacher, thinking they are doing all they can to reach people from their tv's in their homes about the gospel of Jesus Christ. This tv ministry keeps them busy, meetings and such. When a message comes one day about a certain date in Emma's history, this will rock Emma's world. Considering she never told her husband about her past.

Her past that includes drugs, prostitution and a pregnancy resulting in adoption. When her son wants to meet Emma and get to know her, what will Emma's response be and what will her husband think? What will their millions of people think?

This book changed Emma's life, but will you let it change your's as well? That is the big question. Angela Hunt writes with such bravado and thoughtfulness you will be on a wonderful journey, one that ends all too soon.

[Kaitlyn Krispense · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oof. This one hits hard.

It's not just a book about second chances...it's a book that questions how far we follow the phrase "hate the sin but love the sinner." We have hating the sin down pat...but in our little church bubbles, how much do we actually love the sinner?

This book is a gentle but firm call to action that I think every Christian would benefit by reading.

[Joy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Angela never disappoints! Another great story with important reminders.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, Angela Hunt has written an amazing fiction book that truly made me think deeply about how Christians should serve Christ. It has changed my perspective on some things, and I feel I will look at other people I encounter differently now, and more through the eyes of Christ. The plot is interesting, and avoids the stereotypes of a Christian TV preacher and his wife for the most part; they seem very real, make mistakes, etc. Their reactions seem very typical when things from the past present challenges and surprise them many years later. I intend to keep this book and lend it to many others to read.

[Jo · Rating 4 out of 5]

First book I've read of Angela Hunt... Easy read - but some big lessons... I enjoyed the journey... Pg. 272 "I've been a Christian Super Woman for so long... If I could take all the energy I invest in maintaining my virtuous image and transfer it to simple trust and obedience... maybe then I could leave my reputation and other peoples expectations in the Lord's hands while I walked through each day with an ear cocked for His voice..."

[Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a thrift shop find and I did not have high expectations for it...but I was pleasantly surprised. Through Emma..the author weaves a tale that challenges differing ideas of what it means to " be the church" as opposed to loving like Jesus loved. Highly recommend ! Would make a great book club read.

[Bethany Greene · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is shorter than other Angela Hunt books, but it is powerful. It speaks to you so deep. As a teen mom, adoption was a choice, but I was able to keep my baby. Emma tries to forget, but God knows her and the healing she needs.
I am so thankful I read this book, it was life changing.

[Dale · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderfully powerful story of transformed ministry.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have to say this is one great book. I think I will keep it in my list of best books I've read. Opens my eyes at how much some churches are missing the point.

[Nora St Laurent · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Debt not only invites readers to embrace the painful heartache and incomparable joy that accompany a soul's redemption, but it challenges us to follow Christ to new and unexpected places.
This book is a powerful story captivating, and superbly written. I couldn't put it down. Angel Hunt deeply touched my heart. This is an amazing read and one you’ll be telling your friends about. It would make a great book club pick as well. It’s a rich and powerful story. I highly recommend it. It’s a keeper.


Disclosure of Material Connection: #AD sponsored by publisher.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”

Nora St Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
Book Fun Magazine www.bookfunmagazine.com

[Deborah Tate · Rating 5 out of 5]

Due to time constraints, I don't read a lot of Christian fiction. But after reading Randy Alcorn rave about this book, I decided to give it a try. I'm so glad I did. Finished it in two marathon reading sessions. It's a thought-provoking, convicting look at who we really are as Christians. Do we simply go through the motions and live life trying to avoid every appearance of evil or do we allow ourselves to get down in the trenches and meet hurting people face to face? Beautifully written. The character of Christopher will haunt me for years.

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was great. A novel written by a Christian author with definitely a Christian theme to it! It really made me think. Do you feel "called" as a Christian? Does God call you to do something for Him or for you? Do you work within your comfort zone or outside of it? What is a Christians responsibility? These are some of the ideas that were provoked in my head after I read this book. You could probably read it as a novel and not think as deeply about it. But it could also be a catalyst for change or reflection on who you are or what you do as a Christian.

[Shana Brock · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is great!!!! It is a type of parable that definitely makes you rethink your Godly purpose, your ministry for Christ. It leaves the reader with some real heart felt soul searching on what type of Jesus follower we really are supposed to be and what exactly does the Bible say about loving others. I don’t give out 5 stars very often, but this definitely is a 5 Star rating. I highly recommend it!!

[Ginny Jaques · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm on a roll, reading and recommending books that challenge the shallowness of my faith. This is one of them. I think every North American Christian should read this book. Another that would go on my list of top 10 important books for Christians, or at least close to it. Interesting plot and premise. Challenging.

[Beverly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Powerfully written story that reminded me that it is important to seek and follow the leading of the Holy Spirit as we live out our faith by following Jesus. We all have different ways in which we will be asked to share the love and hope of the gospel with our community, but we are all called to be witnesses. May God continue to have His way in our hearts. May we willingly follow and obey Him.

[Deshane · Rating 5 out of 5]

As far as inspirational, motivational or religious novels go, I would put the Debt on the top of any list. This book is literately the perfect representation of, no matter how you've planned your life or how well your life is going, God's will for you can be different from your own. God's plan for us may not always be comfortable, but even the discomfort like the joy is all part of his plan for you.

This book is multi faceted with morals and teachings. From teaching us to rise above our past, learn from it but never forget it; to holding onto our faith in the face of sacrifice and knowing God's will may not mirror even your best laid plan. It encourages you to step out of your religious comfort zone; God's love is neither routine or mundane, and learning to look for ways he's speaking to you and calling on you for a mission was probably the greatest lesson I gleaned from the Debt.

This book definitely brought tears to my eyes, and I set it down feeling as if God had put this book in my path when I needed it most. Trusting in his plan and having complete faith in the throws of a crisis seems to be a reoccurring theme I find myself working on; and we can all use a little encouragement to help others we might not normally go out of our way for.

I highly recommend this book and look forward to finding other titles by Angela Hunt.

[Cindi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had this book on my shelves for a while and finally decided to read it. I've known God to bring things into my life with his perfect timing in the past, so I shouldn't be surprised that He did it again with this book.

Such a convicting story that has my mind reeling with questions. Just when we think we are going along on the path that God has chosen for us, something happens that makes us question our motives and actions. I love how the author brings to light the need to continually seek what God is asking us to do. When things are flowing right along, maybe that's when we need to take the time to listen to the whispers from above.

The characters were realistic and it was easy to relate. Even though I am only the facilitator of a small group Bible study, I got so much out of the emotions portrayed within these characters.
Chris opened my eyes to so much more than I ever expected. Because of this man, I feel the need to reevaluate my current walk with the Lord.

Thank you so much for writing such a heartfelt, well-written novel, Angela E. Hunt. I'm so glad that I read it.

[Laura B · Rating 4 out of 5]

After having read 3 other novels by AEK within the past couple of months, this is by far the best. I couldn't stop reading it, and finished it within 24 hours. (However, my favorite is still "The Awakening.") The story is about Emma's facing her troubled past, and learning how to grow and use it for Christ. I was pleased about how the story progressed and how AEH played out the consequences of Emma's actions, and reactions when the past comes back to haunt her. What I expected to happen in this novel didn't, which was a nice surprise. Having said that, I thought the plot twist at the end may have been a little too dramatic, but it drove home the theme of the novel. I highly recommend this book, especially for those seeking examples to further develop their relationship with Jesus. I wish we could give half stars, because I would give it 4.5 stars.

[Teresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my goodness! This was a wonderful book! As I sent a text message to two friends who loaned the book to me, I told them that my heart ached, my spirit was filled, and I felt inspired. That's a wonderful thing to say once you've closed last page of a book.

I kept feeling uncomfortable at the beginning of the book. As a Christian, I couldn't figure out why the ministry of Abel and Emma Rose bothered me. But I eventually figured it out. And as the story develops and you become more invested in their many forms of ministry, you will discover a new depth to serving the Lord and questioning your willingness to serve. Are you ready to make a commitment and explore what is really important.

This is definitely one to put on your to be read list!

[Have Faith And Read · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars

What an amazing story of redemption, adoption, healing, and growing in Christ. Angela Hunt was trying to inspire her readers, and she definitely succeeded. This made me look at my own journey with Christ, and what I am doing to lead others to Him and plant seeds in His name. I pray that the Lord uses this impactful novel to change my heart and those who read it too, that we will be encouraged to live out our faith.

“Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭5‬:‭15‬-‭16‬ ‭

[Lisa Jo · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don’t normally read a lot of Christian fiction, but a lady I know read this book and recommended it to me. I really did enjoy it. As a Christian book it can feel a littlepreachy at times. And I’m OK with that, some people might not be. I enjoyed the story; was definitely a parable in novel form. Deals with a pastor’s wife, who in another lifetime let’s say, gave up a child to adoption. Her and her husband go onto form quite a large ministry. But then her child from the past, reaches out to her and her world changes. Seems pretty predictable, but I didn’t care. I enjoyed reading it. This is my first Angela Hunt book.

[Suzanne Roq · Rating 5 out of 5]

Recommended categories: season of life, maybe mistaken identity, maybe a story within a story, Psalm 23, forgiveness, joy, healthy processing of emotions, intergenerationsal friendship
I am so convicted by this book. I don’t want to give any spoilers- it is NOT what I thought it was going to be based on the blurbs I read about it. I purchased several copies on thriftbooks to give away. This book will make you think about your faith and how you’re living it out. It will challenge your (my) comfy Christianity

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

After fleeing a painful and compromising past, Emma Rose Howard settled eagerly into the role of a pastor's wife. She and her husband, Abel, dedicated themselves to parenting a mega-church and influenced thousands of lives through its related ministries.

But when Emma Rose receives a phone call from a living, breathing remnant of her troubled past, she finds herself wondering if something in her life is woefully out of balance. The presence of this unexpected intruder soon threatens everything Emma Rose has believed about her calling, her marriage, and her relationship with God.

[Sherri Ferguson · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Debt is a thought provoking book that will make you take a long, hard look at the way you “do” ministry. Do you expect hurting people to come to your church or do you take the church to where the people are hurting? Angela Hunt has woven a beautiful story of a pastor and his wife who are doing great things within their large church, until someone very unexpected opens their eyes to another way to reach the lost.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am proud to include my self as a woman of faith, but not usually satisfied with contemporary christian fiction; a little "thin" for me. This book was not more challenging than any before it, but I know lots of people in my life that could BE the characters in this story. By the time the main female character is reaching a point of spiritual challenge, I was on board and feeling a bit challenged myself. Points are well-made and aptly expressed.

[Becca Catherman · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed following the life of someone in ministry. It was well-written and easy to follow. I didn't feel like I was reading a shallow fiction book, although in a sense it is just that. You see though, the author created a catching story of discovering the character's past and her life of ministry now with many lessons interwoven. The message of recognizing we must be careful to not so remove ourselves from this world that we don't reach the sinners in the world struck me.

[Aimee M. · Rating 2 out of 5]

The reason I am giving this book a low rating is because I couldn't finish it. The synopsis on the back of the book sounded really good, especially about the mysterious past of the pastor's wife. That caught my eye. Then after I start reading the book and get to the mysterious past, it wasn't what I was thinking it was going to be.