A Lesson in Hope: A Novel

Philip Gulley

Sep 2015 · Sold by Center Street

About this ebook

Sam Gardner has been pastor of Hope Friends Meeting for just four months when ninety-eight-year-old member Olive Charles passes away. What's more shocking news is that Olive has left her entire estate--worth nearly one million dollars--to the meeting. At first the gift sounds to Sam like a like a godsend. Yet as word of the unexpected windfall spreads, it stirs up a storm of conflicting opinions amongst the church members as to how the money would best be used. And before the estate is even released to the meeting, Olive's estranged niece, Regina Charles, turns up tipsy and furious in Hope and threatens a lawsuit over what she believes is rightfully hers. Although it may be an opportune time to ask for a raise, Sam finds himself questioning his future in Hope while trying to guide his lively congregation and find a peaceful way to deal with Regina.

Ratings and reviews

A Lesson in Hope by Philip Gulley is a Christian novel and is the second book in the Hope Friend Meeting series. Sam Gardner is a Quaker pastor for Hope Friends Meeting. Sam has only had the job for four months, when Olive Charles, their oldest member, passes away at age 98. Olive leaves Hope Friends Meeting $800,000, a 1979 Ford Granada, her home and its contents. This could be a blessing for the group. Unfortunately, things are never easy when money is involved (and a group of people). Everyone has an idea on how the money should be spent. Then Olive Charles’ niece, Regina Charles arrives in town. Regina has decided to contest the will. As she is leaving their meeting house, Regina “trips” on the church’s sidewalk and sues them for damages (what a coincidence). Then, Sam finds out that his parents are moving to town. Actually, just down the street. Sam’s patience is really going to be tested during the coming weeks. A Lesson in Hope is an entertaining novel. The book is nicely written and easy to read. I especially liked the quirky characters. The tone of the humor was just right in this book (and I rarely say that). We get to read about the life of a pastor in a small town. A pastor’s life is not his own and that is especially true for Sam Gardner. I give A Lesson in Hope 4 out of 5 stars (I liked it). I appreciated the theme that there is always a little hope. A Lesson in Hope is part of a series, but it can be read alone (easily). I look forward to reading the other books in this series and other novels by Philip Gulley.

About the author

PHILIP GULLEY, a Quaker pastor, has become the voice of small-town American life. Along with writing Front Porch Tales, Hometown Tales, and For Everything a Season, he is the author of the Harmony series of novels. Gulley lives in Indiana with his wife, Joan, and their sons.
Learn more: PhilipGulley.com