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Yada Yada House of Hope #3
Who Do I Lean On?
When Gabby turns down her husband Philip for loan to cover his gambling debts, Philip makes a desperate move that puts Gabby, her friends at the shelter and even the House of Hope at risk, as Gabby tries to regain custody of her boys. Original.
377 pages, Paperback
First published June 15, 2010
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews
June 15, 2014
well, when a book can't be put down and reading way past going to be...means the story, characters, and an up & down emotional roller coaster ride has captured a reader's heart! That is what I've enjoyed about this series of books.
September 4, 2011
I didn’t realize I had missed book #2, so I was glad that author filled in me, Phillip was shot, and Grandma Shepherd died, ok, didn’t need to read. I have to say, I LOVED Yadda Yada books, thought 1st book in this series was a let down after those, but so glad I read this one. Gabby was a cry baby in the 1st book, this one, with her husband leaving her homeless in 1st book and her mother dying in book #2, I felt that she had a reason to be a cry baby. I was getting aggravated that she kept getting ahead of herself and God, but don't most of us do that? Think we know the timetable better than Him? And I was also glad that we got the low down on what else is happening in Yada Yada girls lives, as after what 7-8 books, they really do seem like old friends. I may even read Harry Bentleys books now too! (the men's version of the Yadda Yadas that Neta Jacksons husband wrote.)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 11, 2010
Although I enjoyed this book, as I tend to enjoy all of Neta Jackson's book, I wasn't nearly as drawn in to this one. Maybe it was just timing and I should give it another shot (which I will) but I don't consider it a must read unless your read the first two books.
October 4, 2018
Good Christian fiction series. No real surprises or twist but some thought provoking topics brought to light in the story.
August 8, 2010
Having anxiously awaited this third installment in Neta Jackson’s House of Hope series, I couldn’t wait to see what happened with Gabby and her boys. Who Do I Lean On? did not disappoint at all! In fact, this was my favorite book in the series yet! Last year I read the first two books, Where Do I Go? and Who Do I Talk To? of Neta Jackson’s new series. Jackson is also the best-selling author of the Yada Yada Prayer Group series, which I hope to get through someday too (so many books, so little time…)
What was refreshing about these books is that they are set in Chicago. Seems simple, but I had discovered these books after reading Jennifer Weiner and Emily Giffin (both of whom I love!) but most of their novels are set in New York City. After a while, the same city gets bored and a reader wants to read about a new location! So I very much welcomed the Chicago scenes. (And as it would be, I’ll be traveling to Chicago for the first time- albeit for business- in just two weeks!)
I loved reading where Gabby is now after learning how to piece her life back together. I feel this book moved at a perfect pace, introducing new situations and scenarios and keeping the reader’s interest the entire time. Gabby’s faith is definitely stronger in this novel, as she learns to trust God more with her life and decisions. Funny how the tables turn when Philip asks her for a loan. It’s obvious how Gabby has grown as a woman and Christian based on how she handles that situation. Looking back, she was really all over the place in the first novel (who wouldn’t be, given the plot line) but she is absolutely more together in Who Do I Lean On? and it’s easy to root for her.
Jackson wraps this one up nicely as she prepares readers for the finale, Who Is My Shelter?, coming March 2011. While it’s exciting to see how it will end, it will be sad to say goodbye. This is the first “series” of books I’ve read, and with the exception of Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers, my first experience with Christian fiction novels. Neta Jackson develops her characters in a way that makes you feel comfortable from the very first page. I would love to see this series turned into a movie because I can just picture the Manna House and the new Shepherds Fold recreational room! It’s been a fun journey with these characters.
Gabby is much more “likable” this time around as she is finding her independence and holding her head high. This one can definitely make you think. When the rug is completely pulled out from under you, it’s important to turn to the One that knows everything about you (Psalm 139) and knows what the future holds. This series is a fantastic reminder of those things, and I really have enjoyed the fictional stories with the Christian theme. Jackson is an engaging, inspiring, and creative author who keeps readers coming back for more. (No wonder the Yada Yada Prayer Group series is on book #7!) While it might be anti-climactic to read that series now (some characters from that series make appearances in the House of Hope series), I still want to read them. And the good part is I won’t have to wait several months for the next one!
If you like Christian fiction, I’d recommend this book. And even if you don’t like Christian fiction, but like an inspiring read with characters that will feel like your extended family, I recommend the House of Hope series. And if you read the first three books before March, we can all read the finale together! ;) I know I’m anxious to see what happens to Philip with his gambling debts and where he is now as well as what comes of the House of Hope. If you do read this series (or if you have already), please let me know your thoughts! Happy reading all!
What was refreshing about these books is that they are set in Chicago. Seems simple, but I had discovered these books after reading Jennifer Weiner and Emily Giffin (both of whom I love!) but most of their novels are set in New York City. After a while, the same city gets bored and a reader wants to read about a new location! So I very much welcomed the Chicago scenes. (And as it would be, I’ll be traveling to Chicago for the first time- albeit for business- in just two weeks!)
I loved reading where Gabby is now after learning how to piece her life back together. I feel this book moved at a perfect pace, introducing new situations and scenarios and keeping the reader’s interest the entire time. Gabby’s faith is definitely stronger in this novel, as she learns to trust God more with her life and decisions. Funny how the tables turn when Philip asks her for a loan. It’s obvious how Gabby has grown as a woman and Christian based on how she handles that situation. Looking back, she was really all over the place in the first novel (who wouldn’t be, given the plot line) but she is absolutely more together in Who Do I Lean On? and it’s easy to root for her.
Jackson wraps this one up nicely as she prepares readers for the finale, Who Is My Shelter?, coming March 2011. While it’s exciting to see how it will end, it will be sad to say goodbye. This is the first “series” of books I’ve read, and with the exception of Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers, my first experience with Christian fiction novels. Neta Jackson develops her characters in a way that makes you feel comfortable from the very first page. I would love to see this series turned into a movie because I can just picture the Manna House and the new Shepherds Fold recreational room! It’s been a fun journey with these characters.
Gabby is much more “likable” this time around as she is finding her independence and holding her head high. This one can definitely make you think. When the rug is completely pulled out from under you, it’s important to turn to the One that knows everything about you (Psalm 139) and knows what the future holds. This series is a fantastic reminder of those things, and I really have enjoyed the fictional stories with the Christian theme. Jackson is an engaging, inspiring, and creative author who keeps readers coming back for more. (No wonder the Yada Yada Prayer Group series is on book #7!) While it might be anti-climactic to read that series now (some characters from that series make appearances in the House of Hope series), I still want to read them. And the good part is I won’t have to wait several months for the next one!
If you like Christian fiction, I’d recommend this book. And even if you don’t like Christian fiction, but like an inspiring read with characters that will feel like your extended family, I recommend the House of Hope series. And if you read the first three books before March, we can all read the finale together! ;) I know I’m anxious to see what happens to Philip with his gambling debts and where he is now as well as what comes of the House of Hope. If you do read this series (or if you have already), please let me know your thoughts! Happy reading all!
June 16, 2010
Title: WHO DO I LEAN ON?
Author: Neta Jackson
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
June 2010
ISBN: 978-1-59554-525-1
Genre: Inspirational/women’s fiction
Gabby Fairbanks is finally getting back on her feet after her husband kicked her out of their highrise apartment on the shores of Lake Michigan. Gabby is still working at the homeless shelter where she had to take temporary residency at, and balancing being a single mom to her two boys.
When Gabby receives a substantial inheritance from her deceased mother, she comes up with the idea to buy the building she’s living in and make it into a transit home for families trying to get back on their feet after being in a shelter. The shelter is behind Gabby’s idea, but then Gabby’s husband, Philip, comes to her asking for a large loan to help him get back on his feet after he suffered huge losses at the casinos. Gabby refuses.
But then Philip makes a desperate move that puts everyone and everything that Gabby holds dear at risk. Including Gabby’s dreams for the future. Gabby is forced to make a decision that will alter the course of her life—but for better—or for worse?
WHO DO I LEAN ON? is book three in Ms. Jackson’s A Yada Yada House of Hope series, and I was so looking forward to reading this book. Now, unfortunately, I have read it all and have to start waiting for the fourth book in this series.
Having read Ms. Jackson’s previous series, The Yada Yada Prayer Group I have fallen in love with most all the characters so reading this new series is like meeting up with a bunch of old friends. Gabby wasn’t in the previous series, but all the original cast of characters are to some level. Gabby is a realistic heroine and I’ve enjoyed watching her come out of her corporate wife shell and refinding herself. If you haven’t read any of Ms. Jackson’s books, you don’t want to miss this series. Pick up Who Do I Talk To? and Where Do I Go? and start getting to know the characters before reading WHO DO I LEAN ON? This book does not stand alone. $14.99. 400 pages.
Author: Neta Jackson
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
June 2010
ISBN: 978-1-59554-525-1
Genre: Inspirational/women’s fiction
Gabby Fairbanks is finally getting back on her feet after her husband kicked her out of their highrise apartment on the shores of Lake Michigan. Gabby is still working at the homeless shelter where she had to take temporary residency at, and balancing being a single mom to her two boys.
When Gabby receives a substantial inheritance from her deceased mother, she comes up with the idea to buy the building she’s living in and make it into a transit home for families trying to get back on their feet after being in a shelter. The shelter is behind Gabby’s idea, but then Gabby’s husband, Philip, comes to her asking for a large loan to help him get back on his feet after he suffered huge losses at the casinos. Gabby refuses.
But then Philip makes a desperate move that puts everyone and everything that Gabby holds dear at risk. Including Gabby’s dreams for the future. Gabby is forced to make a decision that will alter the course of her life—but for better—or for worse?
WHO DO I LEAN ON? is book three in Ms. Jackson’s A Yada Yada House of Hope series, and I was so looking forward to reading this book. Now, unfortunately, I have read it all and have to start waiting for the fourth book in this series.
Having read Ms. Jackson’s previous series, The Yada Yada Prayer Group I have fallen in love with most all the characters so reading this new series is like meeting up with a bunch of old friends. Gabby wasn’t in the previous series, but all the original cast of characters are to some level. Gabby is a realistic heroine and I’ve enjoyed watching her come out of her corporate wife shell and refinding herself. If you haven’t read any of Ms. Jackson’s books, you don’t want to miss this series. Pick up Who Do I Talk To? and Where Do I Go? and start getting to know the characters before reading WHO DO I LEAN ON? This book does not stand alone. $14.99. 400 pages.
July 28, 2015
Neta Jackson never fails to inspire me through her books, and thankfully this third book in the House of Hope series was no exception. Though I did still occasionally want to shake Gabby for her bad choices, she had come far enough to realize her mistakes herself, before they got her in too much trouble.
Phillip was at his most likeable here, and I was grateful for this glimpse into the person he used to be - until now it had been difficult to understand why Gabby ever married him in the first place. Here we got to see behind his ambition to the person he could be.
I did think the Lee story line was much too easily resolved though. It seemed a bit too convenient - I would have liked to see Gabby come to a decision by herself, rather than being forced into it by an ultimatum.
But as always Neta Jackson delivered an AMAZING story that made me ache to be part of that kind of Christian fellowship myself.
On my first read-through I read the book in one sitting, and stayed up until 2am to finish it.
Phillip was at his most likeable here, and I was grateful for this glimpse into the person he used to be - until now it had been difficult to understand why Gabby ever married him in the first place. Here we got to see behind his ambition to the person he could be.
I did think the Lee story line was much too easily resolved though. It seemed a bit too convenient - I would have liked to see Gabby come to a decision by herself, rather than being forced into it by an ultimatum.
But as always Neta Jackson delivered an AMAZING story that made me ache to be part of that kind of Christian fellowship myself.
On my first read-through I read the book in one sitting, and stayed up until 2am to finish it.
July 15, 2010
This book, the 3rd in the House of Hope series, recaps throughout what has taken place in earlier books. Might come in handy for those who have to wait to read each successive book -- not necessary for those of us who read one after the other with no delays. In fact, the information in this book is repeated more than once, making it appear there is just as much old information as new.
Once again, Gabby is the main character and narrator. She becomes prayer partners with Jodi Baxter who we've met in the earlier series with many of the same characters. Jodi is the main character in those well-loved books. Gabby is remembering to pray more often, turning things to God. She's working on big plans that will only work if God is in the picture.
While this series includes friendships between the ladies, it's missing the tight bonds of camaraderie of The Yada Yada Prayer Group series.
Unlike the 1st in this series, this book isn't a strain to pick up once you've put it down.
Once again, Gabby is the main character and narrator. She becomes prayer partners with Jodi Baxter who we've met in the earlier series with many of the same characters. Jodi is the main character in those well-loved books. Gabby is remembering to pray more often, turning things to God. She's working on big plans that will only work if God is in the picture.
While this series includes friendships between the ladies, it's missing the tight bonds of camaraderie of The Yada Yada Prayer Group series.
Unlike the 1st in this series, this book isn't a strain to pick up once you've put it down.
August 22, 2010
I met Neta Jackson and her husband Dave in Anaheim CA in 2002 at a Christian booksellers convention. We met again recently and she gave me an autographed copy of this book. THANKS, NETA! I had of course heard of her very successful Yada-Yada Prayer Group series but had not had the time to read one.
Well, I'm glad I took the time! This is a great read. Her character Gabby is a real "every woman." She's trying to raise her kids, deal with a marriage but she also wants to help others and obey God. Gabby, however, is enthusiastic--(just like me and maybe you too?)--and sometimes gets ahead of God. You won't go wrong reading this book, filled with reality, delightful characters and a spiritual message we all need to heed.
Well, I'm glad I took the time! This is a great read. Her character Gabby is a real "every woman." She's trying to raise her kids, deal with a marriage but she also wants to help others and obey God. Gabby, however, is enthusiastic--(just like me and maybe you too?)--and sometimes gets ahead of God. You won't go wrong reading this book, filled with reality, delightful characters and a spiritual message we all need to heed.
December 30, 2011
I just love Neta Jackson's books. And she has done it again. When I get done reading one of her books, I can't wait for the next! Who Do I Lean On? is no different. She writes in such a way that you feel that you are friends with the characters and are going through their triumphs and struggles with them.
I love her characters, they are well developed and believable. I wish that they were MY friends. : )
The plot is current and up to date with national and world events which really helps with the story line. I also love how all the yada yada books intersect with each other but are really stand alone to each other.
Looking forward to starting Who is my Shelter?...the next in my stack of books to read.
I love her characters, they are well developed and believable. I wish that they were MY friends. : )
The plot is current and up to date with national and world events which really helps with the story line. I also love how all the yada yada books intersect with each other but are really stand alone to each other.
Looking forward to starting Who is my Shelter?...the next in my stack of books to read.
January 22, 2011
I clearly love reading these House of Hope Novels, although it does get quite annoying at times when the author keeps reminding us who people are. I can understand this might be helpful for people who jump right into this book without reading the first two, but I found that we might get reminders who these people are more than once during the book.
But, overall, these books are wonderful. I read three in less than a week, very easy and enjoyable to read. Cant wait til the next one comes out in March! :)
But, overall, these books are wonderful. I read three in less than a week, very easy and enjoyable to read. Cant wait til the next one comes out in March! :)
July 25, 2011
I just love this series at the end of the each book Neta Jackson leaves you wanting more. Even though the story line leaves you hanging with something major happening and not knowing any more about it. At the same timeNeta Jackson will leave the story on a very positive noteNeta Jackson
February 12, 2014
First, I really enjoy the Yada-Yada series. This is the first House of Hope book and I thoroughly enjoyed it as well. This is the story of a woman whose husband throws her out (literally onto the street.) She ends up in a homeless shelter and needs to rebuild her life. She returns to her lapsed faith and begins to live in pursuit of a holy life while juggling all the struggles that people face. I love how the author consistently points to relationships and God as being central to a life of peace. Good, good read!
August 7, 2011
This is the 3rd of 4 books out of the House of Hope series. What an "up lifting" series of books. Neta Jackson has once again out done herself! I love her Christian based writing with all the scriptures in each book. I have already started the 4th book, Who is my Shelter & it is as good as the others, cannot put it down! I love GABBY Fairbanks in this series, she is an angel! Hope Mrs. Jackson will write more books!
December 15, 2011
Gabby has moved on in her personal life, having reclaimed her children and secured an apartment with prospects for developing the apartment building into a low rent facility for single mothers with children. She also has learned to trust and rely on God more and less on her impulses while dealing with Philip's attempts at reconcilation and settling into her new life. Again one you can not put down.
January 20, 2013
This is the third book in this series and I enjoyed it as much as the other two. Gabby faces more challenging problems but she has found a place to live and now has her sons back living with her. She is learning that through all her problems there is only one true person to go to--God. But it sure helps to have friends she can rely on and pray with. This is a good series and I look forward to the next one.
April 22, 2014
With characters so real you will feel like they are actually friends of yours by the end, Neta Jackson weaves a story of spiritual growth, accepting responsibility, listening to the Lord, helping those who are in need, and acceptance of others no matter what their ethnicity or social status. I am truly enjoying this series, and can't wait to read the next one.
October 15, 2010
This book was yet another wonderful installment of Neta's series! It was so thought provoking for me. I cannot praise it enough. The entire three series are must reads starting with the Yada Yada Prayer Group series, this one (The Yada Yada House of Hope series) and the parallel series written by Neta' husband, Dave (The Harry Bentley series) Fantastic!!
May 8, 2011
I think one of the reasons I like this series so much is because Neta Jackson doesn't sugar coat the believers life. She also doesn't make believing in God seem easy. She portrays characters in real life as they work through real life with God. I don't know if this is the last in the series or not but it ended well.
January 31, 2012
I read strictly for pleasure and escape. I gravitate toward books that will make me feel good or that will help me to escape every day life. I absolutely love Neta Jackson. Her series are hard for me to put down and I find that I can't wait to get to the next book. This 3rd book in her House of Hope series is another good read. Enjoy.
June 11, 2013
Always inspiring and another great read from neta Jackson. I've read all of the yada yada prayer group then moved onto the house of hope... Wonderful book. It is a bit annoying to constantly be reminded of who is who, but I guess this is helpful for those who don't read the books in order and still be able to follow the story. Always uplifting and inspiring!
June 27, 2010
Very enjoyable addition to the House of Hope series. For those familiar with the Yada Yada prayer group series, the House of Hope is a nice spin off. I particularly enjoy the way Gabby is portrayed in her struggle with separation and single parenthood. I would very much recommend this book.
July 3, 2010
Love this series - it just keeps getting better - this one is about Gabby having a vision of opening a housing place for homeless moms with kids and about her struggling marriage with her husband - can't wait for the next one - next SPRING!!!
May 14, 2011
I picked this one up first, so now I'm going to listen to the others on CD, but it's another good one - I like a good Christian book with "life stories". This one is like other Yada Yada books - funny, believable, and entertaining...
June 12, 2011
So happy House of Hope is a reality; glad that Gabby is showing God's love through her to Phillip; worried about her going back to him for the wrong reasons and hoping that Phillip finds God and that Gabby is still able to do her work that she is clearly meant to do!
June 27, 2011
I really enjoyed this second book in Neta Jackson's House of Hope Series. Read it this past winter. Thought I better add it to my books read list. I highly recommend it as a fiction read that also inspires hope.
October 6, 2011
I'm not sure how I ended up with this on my to read list. The story itself is good. I didn't read the other books in the series so I'm guessing I probably would have liked the story more if I had. It just seemed kind of slow to me.
August 19, 2011
I am sad that this series is coming to a close. This has been one of the best character transformations I have ever read. The author does a great job weaving together the stories and character lives. She makes it seem real and pulls you into the experiences of the characters.
February 6, 2012
I loved this book!! Im reading the last book of the series! I would def tell anyone to read this series cuz its easy to understand and enjoyable! It doesnt hurt to mention that its by a christian author. (:
June 10, 2012
I haven't read any of the Yada Yada books in a couple of years, and just like seeing a close friend after a long absence, we picked up right where we left off. I could so relate to this story, and it was well written. On to the next one!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews