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The Pastor's Wife
Bestselling author ReShonda Tate Billingsley evokes laughter, tears, and stunningly dramatic revelations in this uplifting novel about the power of love and forgiveness.
The rising pastor of Houston’s Lily Grove church, Terrance Ellis needs to find a wife. And not just any wife, but the right young woman to stand beside him as First Lady of Lily Grove at the fast-approaching one-hundredth-year Christmas service. That is according to Eva, Dorothy Mae, and Mamie, Terrance's three endlessly argumentative aunts, the strong, outspoken ladies who lovingly raised him and got the once-troubled boy on the right path after his grandmother Essie died in a tragic accident. They know the perfect mate is out there for their humble and handsome nephew. So why, of all women, is outrageous, flirtatious Savannah McKinney drawing him in? Seeing Terrance falling under her seductive spell has got his aunts frantically matchmaking since time is running out and gossip is flying. Who will be the pastor’s wife? Only heaven knows for sure. . . .
304 pages, Paperback
First published November 20, 2007
21 people are currently reading
690 people want to read
About the author
ReShonda Tate Billingsley
63 books1,490 followersReShonda Tate Billingsley is a general assignment reporter for KRIV-TV, the Fox affiliate in Houston, Texas. She is the author of the nonfiction book Help! I've Turned Into My Mother! and three previous adult novels: My Brother's Keeper, for which she received the prestigious Gold Pen Award for Best New Author from the Black Writer's Alliance and the Nova Lee Nation Award from the Greater Dallas Writing Association; the national bestseller Let the Church Say Amen, chosen for Library Journal's Best of 2004 list for Christian fiction; and I Know I've Been Changed, a Main Selection of the Black Expressions Book Club.
Her previous Christian teen novels are Nothing But Drama and Blessings in Disguise, both available from Pocket Books.
She is also a contributor to the story anthology Have a Little Faith.
Her previous Christian teen novels are Nothing But Drama and Blessings in Disguise, both available from Pocket Books.
She is also a contributor to the story anthology Have a Little Faith.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
July 7, 2025
❤️loved
The good pastor had all the ladies in Lily Grove Baptist ready to risk it all. But aside from all the delusion, church drama, and meddling, there was a good message about forgiveness, not passing judgment, and being honest with yourself. Raquel was always the woman for Terrence, it just took them both time to tie up those loose ends to see it. Ps, the aunties had me cackling so much with their antics.
The good pastor had all the ladies in Lily Grove Baptist ready to risk it all. But aside from all the delusion, church drama, and meddling, there was a good message about forgiveness, not passing judgment, and being honest with yourself. Raquel was always the woman for Terrence, it just took them both time to tie up those loose ends to see it. Ps, the aunties had me cackling so much with their antics.
August 12, 2008
Terrance, the pastor of Lily Grove is single and going on thirty. Big deal, right? Well it is to many of his parishioners, including the three aunts who raised him. Is he gay? they whisper behind his back, plotting and scheming to have him removed if he isn't in a committed relationship before Lily Grove's 100th Christmas celebration. So begins the comic quest to find Terrance a wife. There is more underhanded trickery going on in this church than in any daytime television drama, I'm telling you. Some of the stuff his aunties come up with had me rolling on the floor. Then there is Terrance's pick: Savannah, a woman who, shall we say, has Been Around The Block a few times.
You'll see the ending coming way before you get there, but that's alright: it still feels good. The only real problem I had with this book was Terrance. I kept wanting to smack him. All of the pastors I know are Take Charge Men, yet Terrance didn't seem capable of handling even the admittedly vocal handful of parishioners who questioned his sexuality. I'm sorry, but a man with any type of backbone at all would have put a stop to that nonsense before it even started.
The book probably wouldn't have been as funny though.
You'll see the ending coming way before you get there, but that's alright: it still feels good. The only real problem I had with this book was Terrance. I kept wanting to smack him. All of the pastors I know are Take Charge Men, yet Terrance didn't seem capable of handling even the admittedly vocal handful of parishioners who questioned his sexuality. I'm sorry, but a man with any type of backbone at all would have put a stop to that nonsense before it even started.
The book probably wouldn't have been as funny though.
February 6, 2021
Three stars is an average between the things I really like about Billingsley's writing and the things that I didn't like, but overall I liked this. Yes, it's Christian, but it's not typical "Christian romance" stuff.
In a nutshell; the pastor is 30 and single, the deacons want him married or gone, his great-aunts have been pressuring him to marry and he has had many women after him wanting to marry him and be the first lady of the church. He finds himself drawn to Savannah despite warnings against her.
If there is one thing Billingsley did well, it was to make Savannah believably selfish and self-centred (and by believable I mean if it were IRL I'd say it was unbelievable she was so bad) and even gave some background as to why. But I wasn't as keen about how an otherwise intelligent, thoughtful man with good moral character could be so blind at times. Yes, of course bright people are blind in this way often, but he has a track record of staving off women he realizes aren't good for him. Sometimes he seemed to lack a spine. That said, a good novel should have room for character growth, and if this happens it's not for me to say because that enters spoiler territory.
Another thing she did well was to give an honest depiction of another character who is in an abusive relationship without going really graphic. Too often this sort of thing is given short shrift in Christian romance novels or not addressed.
There are a few spoilers that helped me like this book as well.
In a nutshell; the pastor is 30 and single, the deacons want him married or gone, his great-aunts have been pressuring him to marry and he has had many women after him wanting to marry him and be the first lady of the church. He finds himself drawn to Savannah despite warnings against her.
If there is one thing Billingsley did well, it was to make Savannah believably selfish and self-centred (and by believable I mean if it were IRL I'd say it was unbelievable she was so bad) and even gave some background as to why. But I wasn't as keen about how an otherwise intelligent, thoughtful man with good moral character could be so blind at times. Yes, of course bright people are blind in this way often, but he has a track record of staving off women he realizes aren't good for him. Sometimes he seemed to lack a spine. That said, a good novel should have room for character growth, and if this happens it's not for me to say because that enters spoiler territory.
Another thing she did well was to give an honest depiction of another character who is in an abusive relationship without going really graphic. Too often this sort of thing is given short shrift in Christian romance novels or not addressed.
There are a few spoilers that helped me like this book as well.
March 31, 2016
In this novel, Pastor Terrance Ellis is pressured by the elders of the church to find a wife in time for the 100th anniversary Christmas celebration. Why? Because they were concerned that folks may start talking about the handsome and charismatic pastor who in his thirties and has never been in a serious relationship. But the only problem with Pastor Ellis is that he keeps running into a bunch of crazy women who often times mistake his kindness (e.g. going for coffee) for being in a full blown relationship.
Of course, the main person chasing the handsome pastor is Savannah who is well-known both in church and around town as a “floozy.” She would stop at nothing to get her man but she also mush past the test of Pastor Ellis’ three overprotective and meddlesome aunties. Needless to say these three church ladies call it like they see it. They raised Pastor Ellis and were proud to see him turn from a troublesome teen into the man who leads their church.
This was a great premise. However, I found the novel to be slow in many parts. Pastor Ellis being street smart apparently left all that behind because there were times I wanted to help him smack some folks. I know – but he really could have put his foot down many times. Anyway, the story did pick up some steam towards the end when Pastor Ellis finally got a back bone to ditch Savannah who was blackmailing him and pledge his love for Raquel, his secretary. I wanted more action. Nevertheless, it was a good read.
Some of my favorite lines:
“Let me explain something to you Reverend,” Savannah began, her voice laced with attitude. “You don’t play with a woman’s emotions and think it’s over just because you say it’s over.”
“Savannah, please don’t make this ugly.”
She let out a maniacal laugh. “You’ve got to be kidding me. Sweet, trust me when I say things aren’t going to get ugly. In fact, they’ll be quite beautiful.”
Terrance shot her a perplexed look. “What does that mean?”
Savannah flashed him a smile as she headed to the door. “It means, darling that this” –she pointed between the two of them- “isn’t over. In fact, we haven’t even begun. I’ll be in touch.”
Savannah left Terrance looking more confused than ever as she headed back to her car. She hadn’t wanted to go this route, but Terrance had left her no choice. It was time for the trump care, the one that would ensure she’d get exactly what she wanted.”
Of course, the main person chasing the handsome pastor is Savannah who is well-known both in church and around town as a “floozy.” She would stop at nothing to get her man but she also mush past the test of Pastor Ellis’ three overprotective and meddlesome aunties. Needless to say these three church ladies call it like they see it. They raised Pastor Ellis and were proud to see him turn from a troublesome teen into the man who leads their church.
This was a great premise. However, I found the novel to be slow in many parts. Pastor Ellis being street smart apparently left all that behind because there were times I wanted to help him smack some folks. I know – but he really could have put his foot down many times. Anyway, the story did pick up some steam towards the end when Pastor Ellis finally got a back bone to ditch Savannah who was blackmailing him and pledge his love for Raquel, his secretary. I wanted more action. Nevertheless, it was a good read.
Some of my favorite lines:
“Let me explain something to you Reverend,” Savannah began, her voice laced with attitude. “You don’t play with a woman’s emotions and think it’s over just because you say it’s over.”
“Savannah, please don’t make this ugly.”
She let out a maniacal laugh. “You’ve got to be kidding me. Sweet, trust me when I say things aren’t going to get ugly. In fact, they’ll be quite beautiful.”
Terrance shot her a perplexed look. “What does that mean?”
Savannah flashed him a smile as she headed to the door. “It means, darling that this” –she pointed between the two of them- “isn’t over. In fact, we haven’t even begun. I’ll be in touch.”
Savannah left Terrance looking more confused than ever as she headed back to her car. She hadn’t wanted to go this route, but Terrance had left her no choice. It was time for the trump care, the one that would ensure she’d get exactly what she wanted.”
March 21, 2008
Although I love Ms Billingsley's books, I kind of hesitate to call it Christian fiction, yet I found the book very interesting. dealing with unresolved guilt, domestic violence, promiscuity, etc etc, this book has something to offer to those who are looking for a good story or have experienced these issues. Savannah grew up to get over on any man to achieve whatever she wants in life. She has her eyes set on Terrance, who does like her, but as in all things, her true colors do tend to show up and with his three aunts blocking things, things just don't look good. Great read.
August 31, 2012
This was first story read from this author it was okay. The story was fine. The pastor in this story could have a little control( but they alway say flesh is weak and the pastor is the showed us that). I have read other religious based book for other authors but this book was a little far fetch.
January 11, 2009
I read this book in one day, would love to talk with someone who read this and see what your opinion is.
October 26, 2010
Oh, I kept turning the player off. Yet, I couldn't leave it off because I had to see what happened. Savannah made me mad & Terrence had no back bone.
August 27, 2015
ReShonda Tate Billingsley has done it again. Thoroughly enjoyed this book, A Pastor's Wife.
January 8, 2014
Quick, entertaining read
September 18, 2016
This book was really good, with some jaw dropping moments!
September 3, 2017
A really good book...hope there will be a sequel. ..I'm curious to know more about Savannah and her ridiculous Grandma
February 25, 2019
I knew from the beginning that it was him who hit his grandmother. However, I can't believe that he was able to keep it in that long. That poor Savannah has been through a lot & it's even worse when it comes from your own family, her grandmother should have been uplifting her not tearing her down. It's such a shame that she had to go through so much to reach the point of trying to be a better person. I'm so glad that Terrance and Raquel ended up together despite every trick of the enemy, but it's a shame what they had to go through to get there. The Lord used these things for the best outcome for all involved.
This book taught lessons on things coming to the light and forgiveness. God works things out in such amazing ways. It can cause pain but the healing that comes from the Love of the LORD!! The fact that he forgives us so willingly and loves us unconditionally is amazing and we should, as his children be willing to do the same for our brothers and sisters
This book taught lessons on things coming to the light and forgiveness. God works things out in such amazing ways. It can cause pain but the healing that comes from the Love of the LORD!! The fact that he forgives us so willingly and loves us unconditionally is amazing and we should, as his children be willing to do the same for our brothers and sisters
September 10, 2019
I really enjoyed reading this book and other novels she has written.
Terrence was the Pastor of Lily Grove and the Christmas Celebration was coming up, and Terrence didn't have a woman. Some of the members was concerned because other first ladies was going to be there and they didn't have a first lady to represent their church. They were overheard by some members that if he didn't get a woman they would be forced to get rid of him.
So eventually he started seeing and going out with Savannah McKinney and she was not only the talk of the church but the entire community.
I really enjoyed reading Christian Friction because it also mention the scriptures to go along with anything we may face in life it's also a scripture to help us with any given situation in life we may face.
JUDGE NOT!!!!
Terrence was the Pastor of Lily Grove and the Christmas Celebration was coming up, and Terrence didn't have a woman. Some of the members was concerned because other first ladies was going to be there and they didn't have a first lady to represent their church. They were overheard by some members that if he didn't get a woman they would be forced to get rid of him.
So eventually he started seeing and going out with Savannah McKinney and she was not only the talk of the church but the entire community.
I really enjoyed reading Christian Friction because it also mention the scriptures to go along with anything we may face in life it's also a scripture to help us with any given situation in life we may face.
JUDGE NOT!!!!
December 1, 2018
Holy Moly this book was horrible. I rarely read Inspirational romance, but happened to get this in a box of books that I won in a contest. The synopsis sounded interesting so I figured I'd give it a try. I didn't make it past 10% before I was throwing it against the wall in an absolute rage. Homophobia, double standards, misogyny, false righteousness, hypocrisy, it was all there on non-glorious display in the first 30 pages, not to mention that the characters were little more than tired old caricatures, not in any way representative of real three dimensional people. If this is the sort of thing that is okay in Inspie romance, I guess it's a good thing I don't try to read it more often.
September 30, 2018
This book was a good read. We have Pastor Terrance who turned his life around after a tragic accident that occurred during his teenage years. His aunt continued to raise him after he loss his grandmother in the accident. They were hilarious. I loved glad that style up for Terrance, even though they were a little fanatical at times. I never really like Savannah but understand why she was the way she was. Raquel was a great character. Terrance worked my nerves. He was such a pushover. I am so glad he made the decision he made at the end.
September 15, 2020
Good grief.
What some women wouldnt do to get and keep a man.
The sad thing is they dont realize all the lies that got him are the very lies that will lost him.
This story was typical things that goes on in churches. The church members trying to run the pastors life and live off of gossip. They dont bother trying to get to the truth but just run with a lie and make it into to truth. It all makes for a good book. ;)
The lies, the drama, and the unfolding of the truth.
All so juicy.
What some women wouldnt do to get and keep a man.
The sad thing is they dont realize all the lies that got him are the very lies that will lost him.
This story was typical things that goes on in churches. The church members trying to run the pastors life and live off of gossip. They dont bother trying to get to the truth but just run with a lie and make it into to truth. It all makes for a good book. ;)
The lies, the drama, and the unfolding of the truth.
All so juicy.
March 8, 2019
I listened on audio and absolutely loved it! Janina Edwards is becoming one of my favorite narrators. I enjoyed the story from beginning to end. The elder women of the church were quite entertaining and made for good comic relief. Terrance annoyed me a little at times and I figured out fairly early how the climax would ultimately unfold but it was still a great book. Not surprising as the author is a phenomenal storyteller. I always look forward to her books. And this one I highly recommend.
May 23, 2019
Page Turner...finished in a day. Tirle should be slightly different. Crazed contenders are 😆 drizzled throughout. When the teuth comes out I am in tears. Believable heart thrashing issues seasoned with 'good Christian' hypocrisy & dashes of church rumormill. Only noted a couple of errors, but qould definitely recommend to church folk.
January 27, 2020
Their are so many thirsty women in the world its crazy. I felt bad for Terrance holding that secret for so long. I figured he would get with his secretary. This was a good book the narrator was good as well. I listened to it on audible.
July 27, 2020
I KNOW I’ve listened to this audiobook before, but for some reason it was showing as “want to read” here on goodreads. Since it was a good story, I relistened lol. I enjoy Ms. Billingsley’s work. Definitely recommend for anyone who likes a story with good but clean drama.
June 9, 2022
Reshonda Tate Billingsley is an incredible author. Every book that she writes is so intriguing. This book made me think about what has happened in the church and what can happen in a church. We want the best for our loved ones in ministry and I will do what I can to help make the church thrive.
April 19, 2024
This was a great story. I’m so glad Savannah got the help that she needed. Mental abuse can really mess up your life. Happy for Terance and Rachel. Story was a great pace, full of drama and a great ending.
May 31, 2024
Listened to the audio book and it was ok. You can definitely tell this is one of the author’s first books because of the writing style, however it was ok. A lot of drama and foolery but overall it was ok.
May 25, 2025
I found this book funny and cute and a reminder of God's compassion towards our faults. The pastor needs a wife, but the one he needs has been there all the time. This tale is funny with his aunts trying to fix him up.
August 3, 2019
Entertaining and hilarious.
July 11, 2021
Easy read like many of her books. I can always count on one of her books getting me out of a reading slump.
March 4, 2023
I needed this read!
This book is everything I didnt know I needed. Very relatable. Quick read that will have you sucked in until the last page.
This book is everything I didnt know I needed. Very relatable. Quick read that will have you sucked in until the last page.
May 12, 2023
Great resd
I enjoy this book. And told my group that they should read it. This book tells how pastor's wife go through and how some of them act
I enjoy this book. And told my group that they should read it. This book tells how pastor's wife go through and how some of them act
March 8, 2024
I truly enjoyed this. My kind of book. Characters real and storyline captivating. I will find another book by her. In fact, I want to read all her books. She's an excellent writer.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews