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Yada Yada House of Hope #4

Who Is My Shelter?

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Gabby knows God is the God of second chances. But can she give one to the man who betrayed her? When she was thrown out of the penthouse she shared with her husband and their sons, Gabby didn’t know if she’d ever find a soft place to land. But after seeking refuge at the shelter where she works, extraordinary things happen as she is reintroduced to God. From the ashes of her marriage comes the House of Hope—a safe haven for homeless moms and their children. But now those ashes of her destroyed marriage are being stirred again. When her long-gone husband’s life hits rock bottom, he reappears and asks for one more chance. And Gabby faces what feels like an impossible choice. Take him back. Or keep moving forward without him. Toward someone new who hasn’t betrayed her. Is God redeeming what Gabby thought was gone forever? Or is He leading her down a different path and giving her something—and someone—new?

409 pages, Paperback

First published February 17, 2011

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Neta Jackson

174 books526 followers

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 124 reviews
Profile Image for Mary Ann.
33 reviews3 followers
October 25, 2012
Who Is My Shelter? by Neta Jackson is the story of Gabby Fairbanks. A middle-aged woman going through a difficult separation from her husband Phillip, after being thrown out of her own home. Gabby is making a new life for herself, raising her two teenage boys, and working at a job that gives her life meaning... running the House of Hope for homeless single moms and their kids. Gabby is a christian who let the promise of romance and a better future distract her from God. But the trials in her life prove to be the very thing that leads her back to Him. And He shows her that He is the only Rock she can lean on.

I absolutely loved this book. It was so much like real-life, I didn't have to imagine that this could happen. I felt as if it was happening and I was just an on-looker. The characters are wonderful and very easy to follow. I admit that at the very beginning of the book, I thought I had figured out the ending. I was disappointed. And while I was somewhat right... the story really took me by surprise. It never got too complicated, but it never failed to keep me interested. I was sad to be done with it. I wanted to read more...

I enjoyed this book so much that I have already bought several books in this series and the one that precedes it. The author began with a series called "The Yada Yada Prayer Group", and in it begins the story of some of the wonderful characters that carry over to the "House Of Hope" series. Neta Jackson's husband, Dave Jackson, also wrote a parallel series to this one that looks amazing. Check it out.

I have certainly found another favorite author... she has me hooked! I'm ready to read every book in the series, and the ones by her husband. Neta Jackson is a great writer and her books are very well written. Easy to read and keeps you coming back for more. I recommend this series highly. It's great fun!

Thanks for reading and God bless!
Mary Ann :)

*Thomas Nelson has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.-Thanks Thomas Nelson! :)
768 reviews24 followers
March 10, 2011
In some books, the term "Christian Fiction" means the story is about Christians and prayer or God gets a mention or two. Other stories are basically conversion stories--in order for the plot to resolve, the main character has to undergo a religious conversion. Still others deal with learning to live a Christian life and how that is supposed to be different than just being a good person. That's the category into which this book falls. The whole theme, thrust, lesson, whatever you want to call it, in this book is that we need to take shelter in God; other shelters are only temporary and not reliable. That point is brought forth not only through the plot but also by the prayers of the characters and the sermons and songs they hear at church (and the readers go to church with the characters on more than one occasion).

This is the fourth book in the Yada Yada House of Hope series, and I think the House of Hope Series follows (or maybe it just has some of the same characters as) the Yada Yada Prayer Group series. As often happens in series books, there are a lot of characters who seem to have little to do with this particular book, and there is obviously back-story that is missing, though it doesn't keep you from understanding this book.

At 428 pages, it is a little longer than the average Christian novel, and frankly I found it a little slow. I kept debating whether to give it up, but I cared enough about Gabby to see how her story resolved. Grade: B-

I'd like to thank Thomas Nelson Publishers for making a review copy available via NetGalley. I was under no obligation to post any review, much less a positive one.
Profile Image for Christy Trever.
613 reviews24 followers
June 17, 2011
Who Is My Shelter by Neta Jackson is the fourth book in the Yada Yada House of Hope series. Gabby Fairbanks has been through some major turmoil in the last six months, but things are finally starting to look up. The apartment building she purchased is becoming a home for homeless women and their children, she loves her job at the Manna House Women's Shelter, and she has settled into a routine with her two sons, P.J. and Paul. But her estranged husband Phillip is shaking things up again. While in the midst of his gambling addiction he gambled away much of his personal wealth, embezzled money from his company, and borrowed funds from a dangerous loan shark who beat him so severely in the last book that this volume opens with him in the hospital. He is shook up by the experience and is re-evaluating everything, including his separation from Gabby. Add in Lucy's long lost sister, troubles between Harry and Estelle, new women moving into the House of Hope, and Lee, Gabby's attorney who makes no secret of his feeling for her, and you have plenty of drama! I just love this series, a spinoff from the Yada Yada Prayer Group series. After seven books in that series, plus these four, the characters have come to feel like family and friends. Gabby and friends have grown so much over the course of the series, from a wealthy but spineless woman who is abandoned by her husband to a strong woman of faith with TWO men pursuing her. Jackson never gets preachy, but offers reminders for readers of God's provision and unfailing love. I'm so glad there is at least one more book in this series, and I will be so sad when it ends.
Profile Image for Patricia Kirk.
Author 1 book27 followers
March 28, 2011
Phillip throws Gabby out of their penthouse, driving her to homelessness. He parks her boys with his parents in another state. On her own with no place to go, Gabby founds House of Hope, a place for homeless single mothers. She fills each day with friendships, problems, and prayer. Meanwhile, Phillip’s gambling addiction endangers his life as thugs beat him up, landing him in the hospital--and then try to do it again. He knows he’s not safe until he can pay his gambling debts. He returns Gabby’s boys. Gabby still loves Phillip but feels the marriage has ended.

This well-researched book realistically follows the workings of how such an undertaking can succeed. The habitants and leaders of The House of Hope merge into family and friends as these women get a new start.

Who is My Shelter lists as fiction but I wanted it to be true. If there are places like Houses of Hope, I don’t know about them—but there should be. We care about the sometimes-difficult personalities here. Crisis and Gabby’s story keep this book perking along. Well worth reading.
Profile Image for Mandy J. Hoffman.
Author 1 book93 followers
April 29, 2011
MY REVIEW:

This is a fabulous book that is not only entertaining but encouraging spiritually. I love Neta's writing and how real it is. It's not just fluffy and feel-good but full of real-life situations and turmoil. While I don't personally feel comfortable with all the mix of denominations at points, I also don't think it's strong enough to not be able to enjoy this book. The message it carries about turning to Christ for ALL things is powerful and shared in a way that will connect with anyone reading this book. I would highly recommend this series and her previous series about the Yada Yada Prayer Group to all ladies.
Profile Image for Laura.
1,745 reviews
September 25, 2025
"God can use ANYTHING, even the pain in our lives, to do some good." What a fantastic series! Loved every minute of every one of the books! Such great Bible truths and practical Christian living presented in a fun setting with endearing characters...great job, Neta Jackson!
*2nd reading was even MORE of a blessing!
17 reviews
October 2, 2011
I enjoyed the book. But I can't imagine it's the last book in the series. If so, it had a bad ending. There is no closure. The author leaves all the storylines hanging. Otherwise, good book.
Profile Image for Maxine.
184 reviews
April 24, 2016
Poor Will Nissan - she just stuck him in there like a lump on a log.
Why bother?
Profile Image for Kayce.
471 reviews5 followers
April 1, 2011
The fourth, and final, book in the House of Hope series by Neta Jackson, Who Is My Shelter? will leave readers satisfied and fulfilled for having come along this journey with Gabby. The series opens with Gabby being kicked out of her penthouse apartment and with nowhere to go. As she begins to find herself and rediscover God, she starts to find fulfillment on her own. She realizes she is a strong woman and she rebuilds a life for herself that takes her places she couldn’t have imagined. Life has a way of working like that, doesn’t it?

(Last year I reviewed the 3rd book, Who Do I Lean On? as part of the 52 book challenge…check out the review for more)

When the tables turn completely and Phillip finds himself in trouble, in need, and searching to find his own way, he comes to Gabby. The readers will appreciate a softer side to Phillip as it was easy not to like him early on. But once he reaches out to better himself as a man, a husband, and a father, it’s endearing to see how God can work all things together for the good of those who love Him.

Without giving too much away, I will say the prologue introduces a rather predictable side story, but that’s ok, it’s still fun to watch it unfold. I’ll miss the women of the House of Hope and Manna House; I’ve spent a couple of years now waiting to see what was happening with them. But all in all, I enjoyed this series and I would recommend it for those who enjoy Christian fiction or just a good story.

It’s been a busy year for me so far so hopefully I’ll get back on the bandwagon here with the A-Z challenge! Thanks for following us into 2011…many more reviews coming soon!

5/5 stars.

http://bookwormz2010.wordpress.com/20...
Profile Image for Laura.
Author 39 books655 followers
June 30, 2013
Title: WHO IS MY SHELTER?
Author: Neta Jackson
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
March 2011
ISBN: 978-1-59554-863-4
Genre: Women’s Fiction

Gabby knows God is the God of second chances.

But can she give one to the man who betrayed her?

When she was thrown out of the penthouse she shared with her husband and their sons, Gabby didn’t know if she’d ever find a soft place to land. But after seeking refuge at the shelter where she works, extraordinary things happen as she is reintroduced to God.

From the ashes of her marriage comes the House of Hope—a safe haven for homeless moms and their children.

But now those ashes of her destroyed marriage are being stirred again. When her long-gone husband’s life hits rock bottom, he reappears and asks for one more chance. And Gabby faces what feels like an impossible choice. Take him back. Or keep moving forward without him. Toward someone new who hasn’t betrayed her.

Is God redeeming what Gabby thought was gone forever? Or is He leading her down a different path and giving her something—and someone—new?

WHO IS MY SHELTER? is the fourth book in Ms. Jackson’s Yada Yada House of Hope series. Readers will want to read the other books in the series first, as this is not stand-alone. They are: Where Do I Go?, Who Do I Talk To?, and Who Do I Lean On?.

Fans of Ms. Jackson won’t want to miss this book. I’m not a huge women’s fiction fan, but I absolutely love Ms. Jackson’s books, both the original Yada Yada Prayer Group series, and this one, a spin-off. $14.99. 432 pages. 5 stars.
Profile Image for Andi Tubbs.
968 reviews86 followers
April 29, 2011
Talk about having a bad night Phil has had one of those x 10! He has been beaten up by a thug who he owes money to for his gambling debts. He gets released from the hospital and has no way to get home, a young man, Will Nissan is visiting his grandmother and offers to give him a ride home. When Phil gets to his classy penthouse, he is greeted by the men he owes money to. Will this night ever end.

His wife Gabby wants to bring her boys, Paul and PJ to see their father, yet they are estranged and she isn't comfortable with the boys being around him yet. After he kicked her and them out of the penthouse saying he no longer wanted to be married and sent the boys to live with his parents.

Gabby has poured herself into the development and running of the Manna House. A halfway house for women in her position. She is struggling to run the house and keep everything together. Phil realizes that he was a bit hasty in calling it quits on his family.

I was quite taken by surprise by this book. It touched on some areas that I wasn't ready for. I've just recently finished victim advocacy training, Gabby's character while not abused, yet her running of the Manna House really touched me, as I so want to help people who are in like situations. I highly recommend this book! And shine a lighthouse on it!
Profile Image for Carly.
281 reviews69 followers
February 12, 2011
I could kick myself. Who Is My Shelter? is the fourth book in the Yada Yada House of Hope series. I have the first three books in this series on my bookshelf and I never had the chance to read them. I thought that by reading the fourth one, I could get the entire story all at one time. What I found out was that this is an incredibly delightful book that makes me want to take the time to go back and read the first three. I’m glad I have the entire series, but I really do wish I could have read them in order. That being said, if you have read the series in order, I’m sure you are in for a treat with Who Is My Shelter?.

I really enjoyed this story and I found myself quite fond of Gabby. I can just imagine how I would feel about her struggles and her life if I had been with her since the beginning of her story. Neta Jackson has created a story that is interesting, enjoyable, realistic and full of a positive Christian message. I can see why the Yada Yada Prayer Group series was so popular. That is another series that I missed out on, maybe I’ll be able to read those books soon too. I think after reading Who Is My Shelter? I will definitely be a fan of Net Jackson and I will eagerly seek out her books. This book is very well done and a pure joy to read.
596 reviews16 followers
March 5, 2016
See my profile for my star rating system. Thank you to Amazon Vine for sending me a copy of the book for review.

Who Is My Shelter was a beautiful novel about the reality of finding yourself loved by God in a fallen world. Forgiveness, reconciliation, community, hope ... they are all great ideas, but the way they are unpacked in the dark nights of the ups and downs of life often looks different than expected.

This was the first of the Yada Yada books that I have read. Though it was fourth in the House of Hope series and the author did a wonderful job of weaving the back story into the book in a way that felt completely natural, I still wish I'd read the first three books. Not because Who Is My Shelter didn't stand alone, but because as I was being drawn into the novel I realized that I would have thoroughly enjoyed reading the entire story from the beginning.

And just like the series title, I found the book infused with hope. Neta Jackson did a superb job of telling a very real tale, illustrating what it means to find a shelter in the midst of the storms.

Profile Image for Rebecca.
485 reviews
May 16, 2011
I just got this a couple weeks ago, but have been trying to read it since then. I'm afraid it wasn't one of those books that I could not put down. I really wanted to give it 5 stars, just because it's so great to be given a book, and be able to review it. I really am thankful for that opportunity! But for me, even 3 stars was a bit of a streatch. It was kinda slow, a bit too preachy, and did not flow real well sometimes. For example "With the whole Baxter family covering my family - God's peace in skin is what it felt like..." Maybe it's just me, but - I had to re-read that a couple times because I thought I'd missed something. I'm glad that the lady and her estranged hubby are trying to work it out by the end, but the idea of a man sending his kids off to his parents, and kicking his wife out and leaving her homeless- that's a little hard to get past and even want to read on to find out what happens to that shmuck! Not a book I'd reccomend. Sorry.
Profile Image for Jeanine.
72 reviews9 followers
July 21, 2013
Gabby knows God give second chances. But can she give one to her husband who has betrayed her?

Philip threw Gabby out of the penthouse they shared. Leaving her with no place to so. Then he takes there son's and heads to Virginia. Gabby has no where to go. She seeks refuge at the shelter where she works, extraordinary things happen as she is reintroduced to God.

When her mother dies leaving her some money Gabby opens House of Hope, a safe haven for homeless moms and their children.

Gabby is starting to pick the pieces of her life now that Philip gave her back her boys. She is getting ready to move on without him when Philip is assaulted and put in the hospital. He is not able to care for himself when released. Philip asks Gabby for one more change. Should Gabby take Philip back or move on with Lee who hasn't betrayed her? Is God redeeming what Gabby thought was gone forever? Or is He leading her down a different path and giving her something—and someone—new?
Profile Image for Maria Elmvang.
Author 2 books105 followers
July 30, 2015
Who Is My Shelter is the last book in the House of Hope series. I'm sorry to have reached the end. I want to know more about the Manna House, the House of Hope and especially about the Yada Yada Prayer Group.

All the various threads from the earlier books are wrapped up nicely in this one. Not necessarily tied down fast, but working in the right direction, and I actually appreciated that not everything had a happy ending here and now, but just hinted at one in the future - it seemed more realistic that way.

So once again I acknowledge that I was right to give the series a second chance after being so very disappointed by the first book - the remaining three more than made up for it. And as always Yada Yada works as a breath of fresh air for my faith and my prayer life.
Profile Image for Janet.
1,056 reviews12 followers
May 15, 2011
First, I need to say that I won this book courtesy of First Reads - GoodReads so thank you! That said, I would have purchased the book as I collect the series but am very glad to have won this!

I really liked the book, as I have enjoyed this series. The downfall - it's the last of the series and I still want to know more! So as not to spoil anything, I won't say more on that.

I love how the characters work together, help each other and turn to "El Senor" as Edesa would say. I always feel a renewal of hope & faith from these books. The characters just draw you in and make you wish you could spend time with them in person.

I do hope Neta continues on with a branch off from this series. Fingers crossed!
Profile Image for Heidi.
311 reviews1 follower
May 7, 2011
It's more like 3.5 stars for me.

Although I did read it and enjoy it, I wonder if I would have enjoyed it more if I read the other 3 books. I'm happy that Gabby had somewhat of a happy ending but I'm still unsure of why Philip threw her out in the first place. I know he wanted to get "rid of distractions" but that seems like a very bold and unnecessary move. I did enjoy the relationships that Gabby formed with the other women at the Manna House and The House of Hope. I'm glad she found "family" when her husband turned his back on her.

Overall, it was an interesting book and I loved the connection with Lucy and Will Nissan.

Thank you for the opportunity to read a book that I may not have have chosen for myself. I truly appreciate it!
762 reviews1 follower
January 2, 2012
I hated to see this series end because the characters really come alive and resonate with the reader. Gabby's life is back on track with her House of Hope apartment building for single mothers moving out of Manna House and her sons adjusting to life in Chicago. But Gabby still has questions to resolve: where does Phillip fit in to their lives; what about her lawyer/boyfriend Lee; and how can she help Lucy find a permanent home off the streets? There are other plot lines involving minor Yada Yada characters that tie all these questions together. A neat connection with Phillip's gambling problems and Lucy's mysterious background forms much of the plot. The reader will be satisfied although not all questions are answered perhaps leaving room for another Yada Yada series.
Profile Image for Krystal Russell.
34 reviews2 followers
March 28, 2012
This is a heartwarming story about forgiveness and Gods grace. This is the fourth installment in a series that melts your heart and makes you think about what you hold dear to your heart. I really enjoyed it and will be looking for the previous three books in the series. The author really pulls you into Gabby’s struggle as she tries to figure out what god wants for her. Does she trust her husband again and go back, or does she stick with the new life she has created for her and her children? I really like the cover art as well as the story itself and am glad to have it as an addition to my shelf.
117 reviews5 followers
January 6, 2013
I was overjoyed when I picked up the four books in the series. I loved the Yada Yadas and wanted to see where Neta Jackson was taking Manna House. And now with the House of Hope, I see it was in a great direction. :)

I don't know if I love everything about where Neta Jackson has taken Gabby and her family by the end of the series, but I cheered Gabby every step of the way and it all does make sense on many levels. Gabby's a much better person than I!

I like the way that there are not always easy answers and while I tremble at some of Gabby's impulsive decisions, I see them as honest reactions. I'll miss the characters as this series ends.
Profile Image for Melissa.
154 reviews
January 9, 2012
Another great book by Neta Jackson! I'm sad to see the House of Hope series end, but looking forward to the Harry Bently Series as well as the new one coming soon from Neta.

What I loved about this book was the hope. The hope that Gaby wasn't totally finished with her marriage but the confusion with an added love interest. I loved the hope that Will had that they would find his Grandmother's sister. Although I felt a lot of loose ends were left, I know we will hear more about the characters in the other books.

Thank you Neta for another great book!
Profile Image for Heather.
33 reviews4 followers
February 3, 2011
Gabby Fairbanks is currently separated from her husband, working for Manna House, and living at House of Hope. Each day she does her best to help others in need; yet, she can’t seem to figure out how to let God handle her own problems.

God is our shelter and he is there during the storm. Who is my Shelter is a great read and reminded me of the fact that God is always there and He is my Rock.
347 reviews
February 23, 2011
I love Neta Jackson's books. This is the final book in her House of Hope series. When you find an author you love it's always bittersweet when not only you finish a book, but when you complete the series. I hope Neta writes yet another off-shoot from her Yada Yada Prayer Group series. Afterall, homeless Lucy Tucker's story is not finished!!
408 reviews
August 29, 2011
Surprisingly, I didn't like the narrator on this one. I think she was different than the one that read the others... but she didn't have the same ability to keep the characters separate, which it vital to understanding a book on CD. The story line was good - but the book ended rather abruptly. I really was disheartened with this one altogether.
619 reviews10 followers
September 21, 2011
Didnt think it quite warrented a 4, more like a 3.75. (I know, Im being really technical here!) Not sure if author is going to continue this series or not. She wrapped it up, like it may be over. Minus Lucy doing her disappearing act. I enjoyed, again, not as much as the Yada Yada series, as Jodi is a lot more relatable to me than Gabby ever has been or ever will be.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Lanita.
74 reviews3 followers
September 15, 2012
Tnis is Christian fiction, which comes with certain expectations. The prayer-focused, Christ-centered people in the book were beyond believing. All the characters were very sweet and I enjoyed the simple plot, but I listened to it on tape and probably would not have finished it if I'd been reading it on my own.
Profile Image for Cindy.
259 reviews
Read
May 24, 2014
Gabby attends to husband Philip Fairbanks as he recovers after beating for non payment of loan and he becomes friends with the families of Souled Out church and yada yada prayer group. Makes decision to take buy out from partner and start branch of family business in Chicago......

Lucy is a long lost sister to grandma of young man Philip becomes friends with!
Profile Image for Linda.
505 reviews4 followers
June 16, 2014
I am a sucker for Neta Jackson books. I love how the characters are Christians whose lives are not portrayed in plastic. They have problems, they have pasts, but they are redeemed. This is a branch off of the Yada Yada Prayer Group books---a spin-off series, if you will. The Yada Yada ladies are present, but not front and center. Great stories with HOPE as a main ingredient.
213 reviews6 followers
August 8, 2015
The Storms of Life

This is the second time I have read this book. I love the House of Hope series. I did not want it to end. I would like to see a follow-up series or book where Gabby and Philip begin a marriage ministry through Souled-Out Church.

If I could have said anything to Gabby, it would have been to forgive Phillip then you can heal.

Displaying 1 - 30 of 124 reviews

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