By Laura DeNooyer

The pastor and wife powerhouse couple: involved in a growing church, building the ministry, two model kids. But behind closed doors? 

Wendi is at her breaking point. While the church and community adores her husband, Pastor Rod, his charisma hides an emotionally abusive narcissist personality. For sixteen years, she has tried to be a better wife, more submissive, more patient, more understanding. But when her children begin to suffer, she knows she has to act. But who will believe her? Who will come to her aid? It’s the perfect pastor’s word against hers. And in a confusing world of gaslighting and backstabbing, will she have the courage to stand up to the man in the pulpit?

Pros: There needs to be more books like this. Emotional abuse is a serious disease that isn’t talked about enough – and it seems to be more potent when it takes place in a “Christian” home. This book held my interest throughout (even though it’s Women’s Fiction – a genre I don’t usually read) and wove in a solid, compassionate theology that wasn’t preachy. The characters were believable, the setting felt like home (because, Wisconsin…), and though not everything was resolved into a picture perfect ending, it still offered hope. 

(Seriously, publishing houses NEED to tackle this issue! I know too many people who could benefit from a story like this.)

Cons: I felt some points were belabored a bit too much, and, like I said, I’m not a huge fan of Women’s Fiction, but my cons are far outweighed by the importance of this book.

The Bottom Line: A charismatic pastor, his submissive wife, and the scandal that can destroy over a decade of ministry. Is it worth it?