I have not had the pleasure of reading a book by Deborah Bedford before, but to say that reading His Other Wife is a pleasure would be a huge understatement. This book was absolutely fantastic on so many different levels.

The first thing that struck me about this book was simply the writing. Sometimes it takes me a little time to get used to an author's writing style, but not this time. I instantly responded to Deborah's writing and welcomed the experience of a story that sounded like it could have been heavy and a little tough to take.

Naturally, with writing as flawless as this, the story captured my attention right from the start and not one moment passed through the entire book where I felt bored or where I felt the story was too heavy. There was a lot of drama and a lot of painful history in this story, but Deborah skillfully avoided having "too much" at any one time. The reader learns about each character and his or her issues slowly as the story unfolds just as we would naturally learn about someone we would meet in real life. Watching Pam and Hilary both come to terms with the situation they find themselves in and watching God take hold of Hilary's heart was very inspiring.

Some folks may find that the story wrapped up too neatly, and I must admit that I briefly felt that way. But, after reflecting on it for a few minutes I think that was done intentionally by the author to show the reader that once we surrender to God, things have a way of falling into place. For good or for bad, God takes care of us if we let Him. That is the message Deborah was conveying throughout this story and she did it beautifully.

His Other Wife is one of those books that I didn't just read. I savored it. I had certain expectations and each of them were either met or exceeded. This book is going on my all-time favorites shelf and I will certainly be reading more from Deborah. If you are looking for a story with a powerful message that will inspire you and leave you feeling uplifted, I highly recommend His Other Wife.

I was totally absorbed in this book. There is so much going on and the author handled it all well while raising thoughts and feeling of "what would I do in this situation?" Everyone can relate on some levels to the hurt, betrayal, anger, bitterness, loss, forgiveness, doubt and fear themes of this book.

As the title suggests there has been a divorce. Hillary has put her whole life into raising Seth, and he knows it. Seth is just graduating from High School, and has his whole life ahead of him. Seth makes a decision and Hillary agrees, only it is a very bad decision that is life changing.

Her ex husband and his new wife and family are in town to share in the joy of the graduation....then the tragedy happens. Will the two families be able to come together in order to focus on what is important?

I don't know if I could be a generous as Hillary...she opened her home to Eric and his family. I know it is a celebration, but letting the other woman in her home?

This story is a great is a great lesson of letting go and letting God be in control. It will make you angry, sad, and joyful! The story itself is loosely based on Hannah of the Bible.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Hatchett Book Group. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.