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Head Over Hills
Splitting Harriet
ONCE UPON A TIME, I WAS A REBEL. AND I HAVE THE TATTOOS TO PROVE IT.
Did I mention I’m also a preacher’s kid? That’s right. And like the prodigal son after whom I modeled myself, I finally saw the error of my ways and returned to the fold. Today my life is all about lead me not into temptation. When I’m not serving as Women’s Ministry Director at my father’s church, I’m working at Gloria’s Morning Café. I even have worthy goals, like saving enough money to buy the café, keeping my Jelly Belly habit under control, and never again hurting the people I love. No more parties. No more unsavory activities. And no more motorcycles.
You’d think I was finally on the right track. But since my dad’s replacement hired a hotshot consultant to revive our dying church, things aren’t working out as planned. And now this consultant says I’m in need of a little reviving myself. Just who does this Maddox McCray think he is? With curly hair that could use a good clipping, a tattoo that he makes no attempt to hide, and black leather pants, the man is downright dangerous. In fact, all that’s missing is a motorcycle. Or so I thought. But if he thinks he’s going to take me for a ride on that 1298cc machine of his, he can think again. Harriet Bisset is a reformed woman, and she’s going to stay that way. Even if it kills me!
Did I mention I’m also a preacher’s kid? That’s right. And like the prodigal son after whom I modeled myself, I finally saw the error of my ways and returned to the fold. Today my life is all about lead me not into temptation. When I’m not serving as Women’s Ministry Director at my father’s church, I’m working at Gloria’s Morning Café. I even have worthy goals, like saving enough money to buy the café, keeping my Jelly Belly habit under control, and never again hurting the people I love. No more parties. No more unsavory activities. And no more motorcycles.
You’d think I was finally on the right track. But since my dad’s replacement hired a hotshot consultant to revive our dying church, things aren’t working out as planned. And now this consultant says I’m in need of a little reviving myself. Just who does this Maddox McCray think he is? With curly hair that could use a good clipping, a tattoo that he makes no attempt to hide, and black leather pants, the man is downright dangerous. In fact, all that’s missing is a motorcycle. Or so I thought. But if he thinks he’s going to take me for a ride on that 1298cc machine of his, he can think again. Harriet Bisset is a reformed woman, and she’s going to stay that way. Even if it kills me!
388 pages, Paperback
Published November 20, 2007
45 people are currently reading
491 people want to read
About the author
Tamara Leigh
70 books968 followersTamara Leigh signed a 4-book contract with Bantam Books in 1993, her debut medieval romance was nominated for a RITA award, and successive books with Bantam, HarperCollins, and Dorchester earned awards and appeared on national bestseller lists.
In 2006, the first of Tamara’s inspirational contemporary romances was published, followed by six more with Multnomah and RandomHouse. Perfecting Kate was optioned for a movie, Splitting Harriet won an ACFW Book of the Year award, and Faking Grace was nominated for a RITA award.
In 2012, Tamara returned to writing historical romance with the release of Dreamspell and the bestselling Age of Faith and The Feud series. Among her #1 bestsellers are her general market romances rewritten as clean and inspirational reads, including Lady at Arms and Lady of Conquest. In late 2018, she released Merciless, the first book in the new AGE OF CONQUEST series, followed by Fearless and Nameless, unveiling the origins of the Wulfrith family. Psst!—It all began with a woman. Watch for Heartless in Spring 2020.
Tamara lives near Nashville with her husband, a German Shepherd who has never met a squeaky toy she can’t destroy, and a feisty Morkie who keeps her company during long writing stints.
Connect with Tamara at her website www.tamaraleigh.com, Facebook, Twitter and tamaraleightenn@gmail.com.
In 2006, the first of Tamara’s inspirational contemporary romances was published, followed by six more with Multnomah and RandomHouse. Perfecting Kate was optioned for a movie, Splitting Harriet won an ACFW Book of the Year award, and Faking Grace was nominated for a RITA award.
In 2012, Tamara returned to writing historical romance with the release of Dreamspell and the bestselling Age of Faith and The Feud series. Among her #1 bestsellers are her general market romances rewritten as clean and inspirational reads, including Lady at Arms and Lady of Conquest. In late 2018, she released Merciless, the first book in the new AGE OF CONQUEST series, followed by Fearless and Nameless, unveiling the origins of the Wulfrith family. Psst!—It all began with a woman. Watch for Heartless in Spring 2020.
Tamara lives near Nashville with her husband, a German Shepherd who has never met a squeaky toy she can’t destroy, and a feisty Morkie who keeps her company during long writing stints.
Connect with Tamara at her website www.tamaraleigh.com, Facebook, Twitter and tamaraleightenn@gmail.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews
July 2, 2019
This book was charming and hilarious and romantic to boot. The heroine and I are in the same boat about hating change with a passion, and then the hero rides up riding a motorcycle and shakes that boat right on up. A wonderful look into small-town America and the efforts of a dying church to grow again. A very atmospheric tale to get comfy in.
September 26, 2018
This one really hit me. The lesson of forgiving our self is one we should embrace and live out fully.
November 12, 2007
Splitting Harriet not only has a catchy title, but it really fits the story. I am always impressed when an author comes up with a title that truly represents the book. And the cover captures the meat of the story as well. This is one awesome chick lit novel that has all of the ingredients you want to see in a Christian book. Romantic tension, first person internal dialog that flows naturally, tough decisions, and spiritual growth. Her fears were realistic given her past, but she needed to learn to trust in order to grow.
Watching Harriet grow in the Lord was a beautiful thing to experience as I read this novel. I loved Harri's personality, her quirks, her issues with cats, her imperfect past, her striving to do the right thing, and fearing that the "old man" would return if she gave in to her passions. She was a fabulous and lovable character. I'm sad the story had to end. I read the book in less than three days, so you know it was awesome. The humor was LOL funny, especially when she started noticing the hero's flaws more when she was irritated with him. Example: Why did his nose suddenly seem longer?
And Harri was never mean in her thoughts towards others. Honest, yes. But never mean. Even her own negative thoughts about herself were well done. Snappy, but not snippy. Great internal dialog. Harri is a lot like me. She wants to do the right thing, but sometimes selfishness blocks her progress. She's human after all. Wait, she's a fictional character. But she seemed so real! I highly recommend Splitting Harriet. Nothing forced or contrived in this story. NOT a thing!
Watching Harriet grow in the Lord was a beautiful thing to experience as I read this novel. I loved Harri's personality, her quirks, her issues with cats, her imperfect past, her striving to do the right thing, and fearing that the "old man" would return if she gave in to her passions. She was a fabulous and lovable character. I'm sad the story had to end. I read the book in less than three days, so you know it was awesome. The humor was LOL funny, especially when she started noticing the hero's flaws more when she was irritated with him. Example: Why did his nose suddenly seem longer?
And Harri was never mean in her thoughts towards others. Honest, yes. But never mean. Even her own negative thoughts about herself were well done. Snappy, but not snippy. Great internal dialog. Harri is a lot like me. She wants to do the right thing, but sometimes selfishness blocks her progress. She's human after all. Wait, she's a fictional character. But she seemed so real! I highly recommend Splitting Harriet. Nothing forced or contrived in this story. NOT a thing!
July 12, 2023
I have had Splitting Harriet by Tamara Leigh on my bookshelf for several years. After finishing it, I regret not getting to it sooner!
I loved Harriet! Her inner dialogue and some situations she found herself in were hilarious. She abhors change and is determined to stick to the straight and narrow, to the point where she is afraid to have fun. Enter motorcycle riding, tattooed Maddox, the epitome of everything she is against, and you have a recipe for disaster. At least where Harriet is concerned.
I enjoyed Maddox's character as well. He is determined to revive Grace Church. He was not prepared for the force that is Harriet. After spending time with Harriet, Maddox is just as determined to revive Harriet. Even if she thinks she's fine. Even if she says she is not interested.
One of the things I loved about this book is it is relatable. We have a great cast of perfectly flawed characters, all trying to do the right thing, while not agreeing on what the right thing is. Harriet is so afraid of losing herself that she doesn't realize she is already lost. This book is beautifully written, and it made me think. There is a perfect blend of shenanigans and heartfelt moments.
My only regret is that it took me so long to read this book. I highly recommend it.
I loved Harriet! Her inner dialogue and some situations she found herself in were hilarious. She abhors change and is determined to stick to the straight and narrow, to the point where she is afraid to have fun. Enter motorcycle riding, tattooed Maddox, the epitome of everything she is against, and you have a recipe for disaster. At least where Harriet is concerned.
I enjoyed Maddox's character as well. He is determined to revive Grace Church. He was not prepared for the force that is Harriet. After spending time with Harriet, Maddox is just as determined to revive Harriet. Even if she thinks she's fine. Even if she says she is not interested.
One of the things I loved about this book is it is relatable. We have a great cast of perfectly flawed characters, all trying to do the right thing, while not agreeing on what the right thing is. Harriet is so afraid of losing herself that she doesn't realize she is already lost. This book is beautifully written, and it made me think. There is a perfect blend of shenanigans and heartfelt moments.
My only regret is that it took me so long to read this book. I highly recommend it.
August 17, 2016
Again I am being asked what I thought of this book. Now I want everyone to realize that I picked this rating of two starts merely because I didn't enjoy the book not because the book wasn't clean.
To start off I will say that I was rather excited to get this book. Don't ask me why because I don't really remember. All I know was that I was actually excited to pick this book up from the library. I also will say that I didn't have to much trouble reading it. But to be honest I still didn't like the book or characters.
I have never been one for the small town life, you can call me a city girl because it would be true. This doesn't mean that I would die if I didn't live in the city, but I just don't really like the feeling of a small town. To me it's claustrophobic. Anyways back on track, this book is based in a very small town. Not only that but this book's main plot is about changing a church filled with old people into a church filled with young and old.
The main character (Harriet) has a problem with this, and feels a great loyalty to the old people of the church and town.
Now I don't know about you but the idea of reading a book that's plot revolved around a very small town filled with old people didn't catch my attention. Ok, before you think I am a stuck up city girl with no love for older people I would like to tell you that is not true. For some crazy reason I instead like reading books more about things that my younger self can relate to.
I just didn't like how Harriet had like no friends her age, and all she did was hangout with older people. There was a reason for this, but still.
I wouldn't recommend this book, but if you really want to you can read it.
Warning: This book is very clean but Harriet (the main character) used to be a rebel child, and had a crazy past.
To start off I will say that I was rather excited to get this book. Don't ask me why because I don't really remember. All I know was that I was actually excited to pick this book up from the library. I also will say that I didn't have to much trouble reading it. But to be honest I still didn't like the book or characters.
I have never been one for the small town life, you can call me a city girl because it would be true. This doesn't mean that I would die if I didn't live in the city, but I just don't really like the feeling of a small town. To me it's claustrophobic. Anyways back on track, this book is based in a very small town. Not only that but this book's main plot is about changing a church filled with old people into a church filled with young and old.
The main character (Harriet) has a problem with this, and feels a great loyalty to the old people of the church and town.
Now I don't know about you but the idea of reading a book that's plot revolved around a very small town filled with old people didn't catch my attention. Ok, before you think I am a stuck up city girl with no love for older people I would like to tell you that is not true. For some crazy reason I instead like reading books more about things that my younger self can relate to.
I just didn't like how Harriet had like no friends her age, and all she did was hangout with older people. There was a reason for this, but still.
I wouldn't recommend this book, but if you really want to you can read it.
Warning: This book is very clean but Harriet (the main character) used to be a rebel child, and had a crazy past.
July 29, 2019
Before I begin gushing about this story, I have a warning and a confession. The warning first. You really need to have a large bag of Jelly Belly’s on hand, you will need them! The confession? I’m sure I ate more Jelly Belly’s during the reading of this book than I have in the last 15 years! 😳 Not even kidding. This is the 3rd story, of 4, that I have read in this series by Tamara Leigh, and I have loved them all! These stories all have the same feel to them, but they are totally stand alone reads.
Once again, Tamara Leigh hits it out of the park! She gives you a bit of everything! There’s humor, lovable characters, including great secondary characters, sweet romance, and a depth that is unexpected and touching at the same time.
Maddox and Harriet totally compliment each other. They both have done things in the past that they are not proud of. The people they are now show just how much a person can change and grow with God’s help. There’s also the great message that once we ask God for forgiveness, He forgives us! The problems usually arise because we have trouble forgiving ourselves.
I highly recommend this story-actually anything that is written by Tamara Leigh. I’m kicking myself for not reading this series sooner!
Once again, Tamara Leigh hits it out of the park! She gives you a bit of everything! There’s humor, lovable characters, including great secondary characters, sweet romance, and a depth that is unexpected and touching at the same time.
Maddox and Harriet totally compliment each other. They both have done things in the past that they are not proud of. The people they are now show just how much a person can change and grow with God’s help. There’s also the great message that once we ask God for forgiveness, He forgives us! The problems usually arise because we have trouble forgiving ourselves.
I highly recommend this story-actually anything that is written by Tamara Leigh. I’m kicking myself for not reading this series sooner!
January 11, 2008
Splitting Harriet is a fun book to read. Harri is an ex-rebel who is trying to prove to everyone that she's changed. She works at a church, lives in a comfertable trailer home and has a plan to buy a cafe but when another ex-rebel comes to work at the church, she's not so sure how she will control herself. Maddox is a very handsome, funny, smart man who is in love with Harri. Harri's afriad of going back to her rebel ways so she's debating giveing him a chance.
By the end of the book the drama rises and you'll have no idea how Harri will react.
This book was good but a little slow at times. I was always excited to read it because I was convinced that something really amazing was going to happen, but it never did. This book held my attention but could have been more interesting. It is alot about the Christian faith so I think that anyone who is really into their faith would enjoy this book.
By the end of the book the drama rises and you'll have no idea how Harri will react.
This book was good but a little slow at times. I was always excited to read it because I was convinced that something really amazing was going to happen, but it never did. This book held my attention but could have been more interesting. It is alot about the Christian faith so I think that anyone who is really into their faith would enjoy this book.
August 14, 2017
My favourite Christian chick-lit author of all time: Tamara Leigh!
I love all her works from this genre and would really hope she will continue writing more.
Back to this book, I enjoy how she portrays the struggles in church administration and in typical chick-lit fashion, the refreshing honesty of the female lead.
The bits on Jelly Belly flavours are too cute!
I love all her works from this genre and would really hope she will continue writing more.
Back to this book, I enjoy how she portrays the struggles in church administration and in typical chick-lit fashion, the refreshing honesty of the female lead.
The bits on Jelly Belly flavours are too cute!
July 20, 2013
Splitting Harriet is such a unique book. It touches on a couple of tough subjects, but is made enjoyable by the fun writing style of Tamara Leigh. Splitting Harriet focuses on Harriet Bisset a 27 year old former rebellious PK (preachers kid) who seems to only to be able to live life in one extreme or the next. As a kid, she just wants to get away from the church and turns to cigarettes, alcohol, and inappropriate guys. As the reformed prodigal, she is determined to lead a quiet and orderly life amongst the elderly community who cares for her, and she in-turn cares for at church as head of women's ministry and as a waitress at a morning cafe'. In Harriet's opinion, it is either all or nothing, even when forgiven from the past by others and God.
When Maddox McCray shows up, Harriet is thrown for a loop. Her order of life is thrown into chaos as he starts to help revitalize her dying church while trying to help keep everyone happy and avoiding the possible split of an unhappy church. Maddox not only upsets Harriet's work life, but also her personal life when she finds out that Maddox had a rebellious streak like she did, and he never gave up the motorcycle. So, she is bound and determined to believe, because he isn't clean cut and orderly, ready to follow tradition, he isn't reformed.
Tamara Leigh was able to turn a topic that can usually be hard to stomach into a fun book, church politics. Sadly, yes, there can be politics in church and it can rip a church to shreds if not careful. I've seen it, but here, Splitting Harriet is focused on helping a church and making sure that they also help the people who are used to the old, transition to the new, so that they can reach more people with the love of Jesus. The book also focuses on trust, in many different forms. Having trust that the head minister is doing the best to help the church, trusting God with your life and growing into the person He wants you to be, not the person you think you should be, and trusting the people in your life.
This was a fun book and Harriet's quirks make it all the more enjoyable and real. I don't think I've ever read about another character that had such an intense addiction to Jelly Belly.
Thank you to Blogging for Books and Multnomah Books, I received this book for free in exchange for an honest opinion.
When Maddox McCray shows up, Harriet is thrown for a loop. Her order of life is thrown into chaos as he starts to help revitalize her dying church while trying to help keep everyone happy and avoiding the possible split of an unhappy church. Maddox not only upsets Harriet's work life, but also her personal life when she finds out that Maddox had a rebellious streak like she did, and he never gave up the motorcycle. So, she is bound and determined to believe, because he isn't clean cut and orderly, ready to follow tradition, he isn't reformed.
Tamara Leigh was able to turn a topic that can usually be hard to stomach into a fun book, church politics. Sadly, yes, there can be politics in church and it can rip a church to shreds if not careful. I've seen it, but here, Splitting Harriet is focused on helping a church and making sure that they also help the people who are used to the old, transition to the new, so that they can reach more people with the love of Jesus. The book also focuses on trust, in many different forms. Having trust that the head minister is doing the best to help the church, trusting God with your life and growing into the person He wants you to be, not the person you think you should be, and trusting the people in your life.
This was a fun book and Harriet's quirks make it all the more enjoyable and real. I don't think I've ever read about another character that had such an intense addiction to Jelly Belly.
Thank you to Blogging for Books and Multnomah Books, I received this book for free in exchange for an honest opinion.
July 31, 2013
Synopsis:
Once upon a time, I was a rebel. And I have the tattoo to prove it.
Then there was the spiked hair–the shade of which changed monthly–“colorful” language that can’t be found in your everyday sixteen-count crayon box, a pack-a-day habit, less-than-modest wardrobe, and an obsession with guitar-trashing, drum-bashing music.
Did I mention I’m also a preacher’s kid? That’s right. And like the prodigal son after whom I modeled myself, I finally saw the error of my ways and returned to the fold.
Today my life is all about “lead me not into temptation.” When I’m not serving as Women’s Ministry Director at my father’s church, I’m working at Gloria’s Morning Café. I even have worthy goals, like saving enough money to buy the café, keep my Jelly Belly habit under control, and to never again hurt the people I love. No more parties. No more unsavory activities. And no more motorcycles! You’d think I was finally on the right track.
But since my dad’s replacement hired a hotshot church consultant to revive our “dying” church, things aren’t working out as planned. And now this “consultant” says I’m in need of a little reviving myself. Just who does this Maddox McCray think he is anyway? With his curly hair that could use a good clipping, tattoo that he makes no attempt to hide, and black leather pants, the man is downright dangerous. In fact, all that’s missing is a motorcycle. Or so I thought… But if he thinks he’s going to take me for a ride on that 1298cc machine of his, he can think again. Harriet Bisset is a reformed woman, and she’s going to stay that way. Even if it kills me!
Review:
I absolutely adored this story. A story of Love, Forgiveness, and Grace. This story as about Harriet, a prodigal daughter. Who goes from a rebellious motorcycle riding, tattoo loving, to a reformed Christian woman running from her past. Along the way she gets torn between to guys, Stephano and the the swoon worthy character, Maddox McCray. If you want a cute, and quirky read pick up *Splitting Harriet.*
Once upon a time, I was a rebel. And I have the tattoo to prove it.
Then there was the spiked hair–the shade of which changed monthly–“colorful” language that can’t be found in your everyday sixteen-count crayon box, a pack-a-day habit, less-than-modest wardrobe, and an obsession with guitar-trashing, drum-bashing music.
Did I mention I’m also a preacher’s kid? That’s right. And like the prodigal son after whom I modeled myself, I finally saw the error of my ways and returned to the fold.
Today my life is all about “lead me not into temptation.” When I’m not serving as Women’s Ministry Director at my father’s church, I’m working at Gloria’s Morning Café. I even have worthy goals, like saving enough money to buy the café, keep my Jelly Belly habit under control, and to never again hurt the people I love. No more parties. No more unsavory activities. And no more motorcycles! You’d think I was finally on the right track.
But since my dad’s replacement hired a hotshot church consultant to revive our “dying” church, things aren’t working out as planned. And now this “consultant” says I’m in need of a little reviving myself. Just who does this Maddox McCray think he is anyway? With his curly hair that could use a good clipping, tattoo that he makes no attempt to hide, and black leather pants, the man is downright dangerous. In fact, all that’s missing is a motorcycle. Or so I thought… But if he thinks he’s going to take me for a ride on that 1298cc machine of his, he can think again. Harriet Bisset is a reformed woman, and she’s going to stay that way. Even if it kills me!
Review:
I absolutely adored this story. A story of Love, Forgiveness, and Grace. This story as about Harriet, a prodigal daughter. Who goes from a rebellious motorcycle riding, tattoo loving, to a reformed Christian woman running from her past. Along the way she gets torn between to guys, Stephano and the the swoon worthy character, Maddox McCray. If you want a cute, and quirky read pick up *Splitting Harriet.*
April 3, 2011
Meet Harriet Bisset….. prodigal daughter of a preacher and lover of Jelly Bellys. She also happens to be the director of women’s ministries at the church where her father was the former pastor, and she’s doing her best to keep things from changing too much. Who needs a contemporary worship service when you’ve got a beautiful organ and an organist that’s been faithful to play it for 30 years? Unfortunately for Harri, the church board members have hired a consultant to bring the church into the 21st century.
When consultant Maddox McCray arrives, Harri doesn’t care for him one bit. But when he starts revitalizing the women’s ministry activities, Harri has to admit that maybe he has a clue about what he’s doing. Oh, and how she doesn’t want to have feelings for him, but that’s easier said than done.
This book was so enjoyable, and right up my alley. I loved the occasional touches of humor, and the depth of Harri's character. She tries so hard to please God, and to keep herself above reproach, because Lord knows, she's already had enough of that in her life. Mix Harri's character with all the struggles going on at her church, and you've got a great book that really makes you think. Being a former PK myself, it's not an option to be away from prying eyes and gossip circulating about you and your family. Tamara Leigh did an excellent job of revealing Harri's conflicting emotions about what Harri would prefer to see happen versus what was best for the church as a whole.
When consultant Maddox McCray arrives, Harri doesn’t care for him one bit. But when he starts revitalizing the women’s ministry activities, Harri has to admit that maybe he has a clue about what he’s doing. Oh, and how she doesn’t want to have feelings for him, but that’s easier said than done.
This book was so enjoyable, and right up my alley. I loved the occasional touches of humor, and the depth of Harri's character. She tries so hard to please God, and to keep herself above reproach, because Lord knows, she's already had enough of that in her life. Mix Harri's character with all the struggles going on at her church, and you've got a great book that really makes you think. Being a former PK myself, it's not an option to be away from prying eyes and gossip circulating about you and your family. Tamara Leigh did an excellent job of revealing Harri's conflicting emotions about what Harri would prefer to see happen versus what was best for the church as a whole.
March 28, 2010
So, you know, this book is not super well written (not that I can even tell at this point, since I've been reading mostly Christian paperbacks since roughly February, plus that insufferably Monkey Wrench Gang), but I still like it, enough that I didn't really want to stop reading it. I think that, compared to most of the Christian women authors I've been reading, Tamara Leigh stands out insofar as her characters are more varied. The tone is the same, but she does manage to put each in her own situation. This main character, Harri, was probably my favorite. She, like me, is kind of a reformed Hot Mess who now just wants to kick it with grannies. Only, because I am not in a chick novel, I kick it with my husband. The book does have this failing, central to, like, every book written for women ever, it feels like -- which is: what happens when these ladies find a man? Having resolved that Super Important Issue, what am I supposed to be doing? Why can't anyone write a novel about young married Christian ladies who are still trying to work things out, getting into adventures and shenanigans, etc? There's got to be some sort of middle ground between the decadent and silly and the actually sublime, right? I mean, I'm not always up for Middlemarch (favorite lady protag EVER, after Anne Shirley!)
May 25, 2020
3.5 to 4 stars (rating shown may differ depending on whether site allows half star ratings).
This is a charming story, but I don't quite "get" the title other than it was chosen to fit with the pattern of other titles in the series. Harri (short for Harriet) does have somewhat of a "split" in her life between her old rebel self and her current responsible self--but I'd hardly deem that splitting. Likewise the push and pull between traditional and contemporary forms of church service which can cause a church split doesn't seem to happen with regard to Harri in this book, though I do sympathize with her on being resistant to change (though we're not always concerned about the same things). Perhaps the title was supposed to be a play on the saying "splitting hairs", but even so, it didn't quite gel for me.
At 16, preacher's kid Harri experiences a church issue that splits the church her father pastors. Some people that she had thought were friends attacked her family. When Harri's father refuses to give up the church he feels called to, Harri starts acting out in the hopes that her parents will see how hurt she is and how much what is going on is affecting the whole family. Unfortunately, the rebellion backfires on her and she ends up going quite wild until she's found in a bar by two church members who rescue her from a bad situation there and take her "home".
Harri worries that any actions she enjoyed in her rebellious life might send her swaying back into it. She takes a part-time women's ministry position and a part-time waitressing job (where she plans to buy the business once she's saved up enough money). She lives in a trailer park the church owns which is supposed to be mainly for seniors (and apparently one set aside for guest speakers etc.). Unfortunately, this proclivity of thinking of those older than her as "safe" means that most of her programs seem more geared toward the older women in the congregation. Programs that don't seem to be helping the church to "grow".
Meanwhile, Harri's father decided to retired. He brought in a successor and worked with that man for a while, but now has decided to do missionary work to allow his successor to make changes without interference.
It seems some changes were being contemplated already--a gradual phase-out of the organ in favor of a worship band (with drums and guitars); a move to a more contemporary service/style of worship. Changes that upset some of the seniors; changes that upset Harri. For whatever reason, the new pastor decides to bring in a consultant to help grow the church.
Having gone through the decline of a number of churches in my lifetime, I sympathize with the church that is experiencing it. It seems this church has a number of things going for it--the community around it is growing so they do have people willing to come check out their church, they seem to have caught the decline early enough to be able to reverse it. In my life, all the churches that were in decline either closed or merged with another church. Nothing they tried seemed to turn around the decline.
I do like that this church was committed to keeping the Gospel message true and not diluting it or dulling it down or changing it to what people want to hear (think prosperity gospel--which is NOT what the Bible teaches). I do like that the church did try to keep its older members in mind too--warning them that changes were coming, phasing in the changes. But I also like that once they made a decision, they didn't let the naysayers sway them back.
I didn't like that so many of the changes just seemed to be sprung on the church leadership. It was hard to remember that there was a "growth committee" (that we didn't see meet-possibly because Harri wasn't a member of it) and a "church leaderhip" meeting (that we did see, because Harri as the Women's Ministry leader is part of church leadership). So the changes the vision committee voted on seemed sort of "sprung" on the church leadership without any previous discussion. (Either that or Harri was closing her ears to things she didn't want to hear.)
I've also experienced the resistance to change--both in myself and in others. I do agree that at times having one traditional service and one contemporary service does tend to separate the congregation into those that attend each one--kind of like having two different churches within the same building. I see value in both types of worship music. I like the messages that the old hymns impart, but I also like the more upbeat style of contemporary. Sometimes there is a way to take the older message and update the tune--which is one way to blend the two. Other times there can be a mix of older hymns and newer worship songs with a similar theme uniting the two.
I like that Harri tried to keep herself away from things that she felt might tempt her back to an ungodly life. I do think she went a bit overboard on it at times--not trusting herself or God that she's changed or that God can keep her on the path that He wants her on.
I do think it was a good idea for Maddox to push Harriet to open up the women's ministry in a way to bring in more age groups. The movie idea contrasting a classic with a remake sounded fun (if long) and the door prize idea probably did help to bring women in for the first time. I also liked the idea of opening the quilting group up to other crafts (they chose scrapbooking--one I dearly love).
I admired Gloria's sticking to her agreement with Harri rather than taking the higher amount that the church offered. I also liked that someone (not sure who) orchestrated a trade in properties so that the seniors wouldn't have to worry about their homes being taken away by the church again--at least not in the near future once Harri released Gloria from their verbal agreement. I didn't like that Harri viewed it all as a sacrifice on her own part--a sacrifice for the good of others. I get the disappointment of a dream going off track, but the word sacrifice seemed a bit too harsh for me in this context.
This is a charming story, but I don't quite "get" the title other than it was chosen to fit with the pattern of other titles in the series. Harri (short for Harriet) does have somewhat of a "split" in her life between her old rebel self and her current responsible self--but I'd hardly deem that splitting. Likewise the push and pull between traditional and contemporary forms of church service which can cause a church split doesn't seem to happen with regard to Harri in this book, though I do sympathize with her on being resistant to change (though we're not always concerned about the same things). Perhaps the title was supposed to be a play on the saying "splitting hairs", but even so, it didn't quite gel for me.
At 16, preacher's kid Harri experiences a church issue that splits the church her father pastors. Some people that she had thought were friends attacked her family. When Harri's father refuses to give up the church he feels called to, Harri starts acting out in the hopes that her parents will see how hurt she is and how much what is going on is affecting the whole family. Unfortunately, the rebellion backfires on her and she ends up going quite wild until she's found in a bar by two church members who rescue her from a bad situation there and take her "home".
Harri worries that any actions she enjoyed in her rebellious life might send her swaying back into it. She takes a part-time women's ministry position and a part-time waitressing job (where she plans to buy the business once she's saved up enough money). She lives in a trailer park the church owns which is supposed to be mainly for seniors (and apparently one set aside for guest speakers etc.). Unfortunately, this proclivity of thinking of those older than her as "safe" means that most of her programs seem more geared toward the older women in the congregation. Programs that don't seem to be helping the church to "grow".
Meanwhile, Harri's father decided to retired. He brought in a successor and worked with that man for a while, but now has decided to do missionary work to allow his successor to make changes without interference.
It seems some changes were being contemplated already--a gradual phase-out of the organ in favor of a worship band (with drums and guitars); a move to a more contemporary service/style of worship. Changes that upset some of the seniors; changes that upset Harri. For whatever reason, the new pastor decides to bring in a consultant to help grow the church.
Having gone through the decline of a number of churches in my lifetime, I sympathize with the church that is experiencing it. It seems this church has a number of things going for it--the community around it is growing so they do have people willing to come check out their church, they seem to have caught the decline early enough to be able to reverse it. In my life, all the churches that were in decline either closed or merged with another church. Nothing they tried seemed to turn around the decline.
I do like that this church was committed to keeping the Gospel message true and not diluting it or dulling it down or changing it to what people want to hear (think prosperity gospel--which is NOT what the Bible teaches). I do like that the church did try to keep its older members in mind too--warning them that changes were coming, phasing in the changes. But I also like that once they made a decision, they didn't let the naysayers sway them back.
I didn't like that so many of the changes just seemed to be sprung on the church leadership. It was hard to remember that there was a "growth committee" (that we didn't see meet-possibly because Harri wasn't a member of it) and a "church leaderhip" meeting (that we did see, because Harri as the Women's Ministry leader is part of church leadership). So the changes the vision committee voted on seemed sort of "sprung" on the church leadership without any previous discussion. (Either that or Harri was closing her ears to things she didn't want to hear.)
I've also experienced the resistance to change--both in myself and in others. I do agree that at times having one traditional service and one contemporary service does tend to separate the congregation into those that attend each one--kind of like having two different churches within the same building. I see value in both types of worship music. I like the messages that the old hymns impart, but I also like the more upbeat style of contemporary. Sometimes there is a way to take the older message and update the tune--which is one way to blend the two. Other times there can be a mix of older hymns and newer worship songs with a similar theme uniting the two.
I like that Harri tried to keep herself away from things that she felt might tempt her back to an ungodly life. I do think she went a bit overboard on it at times--not trusting herself or God that she's changed or that God can keep her on the path that He wants her on.
I do think it was a good idea for Maddox to push Harriet to open up the women's ministry in a way to bring in more age groups. The movie idea contrasting a classic with a remake sounded fun (if long) and the door prize idea probably did help to bring women in for the first time. I also liked the idea of opening the quilting group up to other crafts (they chose scrapbooking--one I dearly love).
I admired Gloria's sticking to her agreement with Harri rather than taking the higher amount that the church offered. I also liked that someone (not sure who) orchestrated a trade in properties so that the seniors wouldn't have to worry about their homes being taken away by the church again--at least not in the near future once Harri released Gloria from their verbal agreement. I didn't like that Harri viewed it all as a sacrifice on her own part--a sacrifice for the good of others. I get the disappointment of a dream going off track, but the word sacrifice seemed a bit too harsh for me in this context.
October 2, 2010
This Christian chick-lit romance was well-written and kept me turning the pages. I also really liked it that Harriet looked to memorized Scripture for guidance on how to react in different situations (though, unfortunately, she usually didn't follow that guidance). However, I felt that one message of the book was that its okay for Christians to do "what's best for the majority" even if it means knowingly hurting fellow Christians. (I'm not talking about the worship style wars here but the bit at the end.) The church leadership was giving priority to some people and goals fully knowing it would force harm/sacrifice on other people--the elderly and widows (which, incidentally, the Bible commands us to take special care of). That bothered me.
December 10, 2016
Not only does this book signify redemption, grace and unconditional love, it's just plain fun! It was hilarious and sooo real. I loved the relationships, and nothing in this story-line came easy to the characters. They had some real struggles, unlike some contemporaries I've read in the past. I'm sooo happy I picked up this fantastic read.
Tamera Leigh was an author I clicked "to-read" on a couple weeks ago, but I didn't REALLY think I'd ever read it. But when I saw this adorable cover at my library, and needed some light reading I just checked it out.
I didn't know this book was going to be so good!!!!!
Please read it. It was clean, does have drug/alcohol/partying references....So I guess it could be a trigger for people but I really enjoyed it. Check it out!
Tamera Leigh was an author I clicked "to-read" on a couple weeks ago, but I didn't REALLY think I'd ever read it. But when I saw this adorable cover at my library, and needed some light reading I just checked it out.
I didn't know this book was going to be so good!!!!!
Please read it. It was clean, does have drug/alcohol/partying references....So I guess it could be a trigger for people but I really enjoyed it. Check it out!
March 17, 2009
I didn't realize this was a Christian book when I picked it up, although how I failed to realize it based on the description, I don't know. Harriet is a PK (preacher's kid) who turns bad after some strife in her father's church. She redeems herself, but goes overboard and becomes too good. A romance with a church consultant hired to make big changes in her church helps her discover what it really means to be truly forgiven. The romance in this is cute and the plot is pretty interesting...it made for a nice easy and pleasant read during a bout with a bad cold.
January 6, 2017
Super clean and inspiring story about a former rebel and how she learned to forgive herself and accept forgiveness. It was pretty heavy-handed on the religion, but she works for a church, so that's to be expected. I thought the story was very well done and I like reading Tamara Leigh's books! Thanks for the recommendation, CleanRomanceReviews.com!
April 29, 2011
I enjoyed this Christian Romance about a pastor's daughter who's had to reform herself and now must deal with her congregation getting a more modern service etc. I like all of Tamara Leigh's Christian stuff.
May 30, 2014
I really enjoyed this book! For me, it was easy to relate to Harriet. I loved watching her grow, mature and conquer her fear! It was a fun, sweet and quirky read, but more importantly it carries a beautiful message of forgiveness!
March 13, 2017
This was so cute and incredibly sweet. I loved seeing how Harriet grew, and there was a really great message of letting go of the past and living under grace. It made me laugh out loud a few times, and I had a smile on the entire time.
4 stars for me
4 stars for me
March 12, 2013
Jelly beans!
Motorcycles!
Second chances!
Love!
Except all of this in this AMAZING book!!!
Motorcycles!
Second chances!
Love!
Except all of this in this AMAZING book!!!
July 13, 2016
Loved this book! Spoke to me in so many different ways. Would definitely recommend it friends.
July 6, 2018
I got 15% through and could not read any further. The main character, Harri (her nickname), is not only closed-minded, but judgmental, unforgiving, and downright mean; and the whole time claiming to be a devote Christian.
This novel is a first person narrative, which I do enjoy reading, but I just did not like Harri and could not stand what thoughts run through her head and some of her actions. She claims to have good intentions, but she can only see one side of the situation/circumstances and is unwilling to open up to other Christians in this story. I like flawed characters, however, they have to be likeable.
I am disappointed because this is the first novel of TL that I did not like. Her other contemporary novels (such as "Stealing Ada" and "Nowhere Carolina") are much more enjoyable.
This novel is a first person narrative, which I do enjoy reading, but I just did not like Harri and could not stand what thoughts run through her head and some of her actions. She claims to have good intentions, but she can only see one side of the situation/circumstances and is unwilling to open up to other Christians in this story. I like flawed characters, however, they have to be likeable.
I am disappointed because this is the first novel of TL that I did not like. Her other contemporary novels (such as "Stealing Ada" and "Nowhere Carolina") are much more enjoyable.
January 25, 2019
I'm not actually a fan of evangelical conversion narratives as a general rule. I think they tend to be a little too tidy. This has a twist as the heroine does practice her religion very faithfully as the story opens, after having a rebellious period years before the story begins, and the spiritual growth is actually in learning to trust herself and tolerate and even welcome change. This is something I struggle with too and I think it's why I keep coming back to this book. But I'm iffy about this author as she has some interesting points in some of her books, but another of her books features an "ex-gay" character and I really disagree with the practice of any religion encouraging that of people.
May 10, 2019
I'm used to Tamara's medieval stories so this one was a modern one. I really liked it and as a former church split person, I can relate. Harriett, a preacher's daughter is trying so hard to overcome her past as a rebel that she's planted herself with the older people of the church and doesn't want any "changes" to happen. Maddox is hired as a consultant for the church to grow it's numbers. Maddox reminds Harriet of her past so she tries to avoid him at all costs which is hard when she is in charge of women's ministry at the church. There's a lot of truth in this story as to what happens when churches face change and the traditional vs. contemporary. It's a fun "ride" with Harriet and Maddox and the older members of the church. Definitely worth the read.
October 10, 2018
Great!
Motorcycles, crazy cats, and a sweet romance between two ex-rebels.
I loved the interaction between Harri and the elderly, though it was her trying to protect herself.
Dumplin and Doo-Dah were probably the funniest animal character's that I've read about.
Big decisions like the one's First Grace had to make can be messy and Leigh showed the struggles in a real way along with how she used Harri's fear and other issues to make the story a great inspirational romance.
Motorcycles, crazy cats, and a sweet romance between two ex-rebels.
I loved the interaction between Harri and the elderly, though it was her trying to protect herself.
Dumplin and Doo-Dah were probably the funniest animal character's that I've read about.
Big decisions like the one's First Grace had to make can be messy and Leigh showed the struggles in a real way along with how she used Harri's fear and other issues to make the story a great inspirational romance.
June 22, 2020
I loved Tamara Leigh's books in the past so I was excited to see her book on Kindle Unlimited. This book was so bad, I wonder if it was the same author. Harri a preachers daughter with tattoos is so drunk at a biker bar she vomits and two older ladies from her dads church rescue her. I just did not like it, nope not at all. I could care less about Harrietta, the author didn't make this book so the reader was invested.
May 29, 2017
I enjoyed it. It was a perfect, lighthearted read with a great message about trusting God with your forgiveness. It spoke to me and reminded me to live my life in the security that God's salvation brings.
May 8, 2018
Officially a fan
Loved Harriet' Log and different count downs. Made her feel more real. Between the spirited old folks, realistic church issues, and a worthy hero makes this story one to remember.
Loved Harriet' Log and different count downs. Made her feel more real. Between the spirited old folks, realistic church issues, and a worthy hero makes this story one to remember.
September 2, 2019
A really good read
I just loved this story. Watching Harri bloom and grow into herself, forgiveness, love and purpose. Tamara Leigh really knows how to create characters with depth that you come to love and relate to, as well as stories you have a hard time putting down.
I just loved this story. Watching Harri bloom and grow into herself, forgiveness, love and purpose. Tamara Leigh really knows how to create characters with depth that you come to love and relate to, as well as stories you have a hard time putting down.
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