Almost Friends: A Harmony Novel

Philip Gulley has a way of writing about church and small town life that is inclusive to those of us who don't usually feel like we fit into those places. From the moment I started reading the first Harmony book, to the end of this latest one, I felt welcome in his world and inspired to be a nicer person than usual.That says a lot coming from someone who doesn't go to church or live in a small town. His characters are charming and easy to relate to, and his talk about church life, morals, and God are inclusive. If you find Jan Karon's Mitford a little heavy-handed with the evangelizing, this series may be more your speed.In this book, we are shown more of Sam and see him struggling with some very human failings. Sam takes some time off to care for his father, and while he is gone a student minister named Krista takes his place. Between Dale Hinshaw's rantings that a woman is leading the church, Fern's ire over Krista's involvement in the big Chicken Noodle Dinner event, and Sam's jealousy over the welcome that people give to Krista, we get to be along for the ride as Harmony's residents struggle with change in the church and try to triumph over their personal failings.This is a light and easy series to read and is very uplifting. I read it in a day - I just didn't want to put it down - and finished it feeling inspired and refreshed.This latest is highly recommended.

IF you can still get this book, I highly recommend it. What an wonderful insight into a small community life and the comedic yet well-meaning outcome of some of the church's residents endeavors! It's a very positive and entertaining story and one more than one instance I found myself laughing outload so hard it was difficult to read further until I stopped. I've since bought and recommended it to several of my friends who also told me it was a great read and bought a copy to pass on as a gift to their friends. Give it a go.

Seriously, every pastor should read this book ... if nothing more than to know there is someone out there who has the same issues as them.And every Christian should read this book . . . if nothing more than to know the marks of a true believer.

In the next installment of the people of Harmony, Philip Gulley stretches his artistic ability by accurately expressing the doubts and disillusionment Sam Gardner feels as his parishoners stretch him to the breaking point, and as Sam's father is struck with a severe illness. Not as laugh-out-loud funny as some of his other books, Almost Friends, with gentle, stirring humor guides the reader through some serious situations, as well as brings its reader to the frustration point as Fern and Dale join forces to not only oust Sam from his position, but also the person, Krista, who takes over in his absence. As usual, Gulley brings to life the characters in his book so that you think you are reading about the neighbor next door ~ as seems what many of these fictional characters have become to those who now anxiously look forward to the goings on in Harmony, and in the lives of Sam and Barbara Gardner.

I spent my life in various church settings withsimilar characters as in the book. I laughed out loud at the antics that took place although I foundthe situations unpleasant in real life. The lesson for me is Don'ttake life too seriously.

I have always enjoyed things by this author. Somehow I always feel calmer. after reading one of his books. The humor and on target characterizations make me feel as if things have a way of working out. Thanks, Mr. Gulley.

Don't take that title as a negative! Almost Friends is probably the best and most realistic book I've ever read that deals with conflict within a church. Phillip Gulley tells the story as if he lived it...and since he is a minister, he may have. While addressing a very serious subject, church conflict, Mr. Gulley finds plenty of humor along the way. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and gave it 5 stars. I'm really stingy with that 5th star, so take it as a recommendation to put this on your must read list.

I am not Quaker but I do go to church and I am a christian. I have really enjoyed past books by Phillip Gulley and this one is no exception. It is the epitome of a small town and what happens in churches all over the country. I love how there is a female minister in the story and how Dale Hinshaw continues to be a pest! Mr Gulley paints a great picture of his characters and I laugh so hard when I read these books. It reads like Garrison Keelor! I love it! I feel good that I can finally pick up a fictional book that is like eating a good meal very satisfying.

great