Church Folk

Set in 1960s Mississippi, this novel explores love, faith, and self-discovery. Theophilus Henry Simmons is a young, single pastor in Charleston, Mississippi. When he proposes to Essie Lee Lane, a quiet woman from his congregation, some church members take it upon themselves to instruct her on what it means to be a pastor's wife, making clear how much she has to learn about them. As Theophilus rises in prominence within his denomination, Essie transforms from a reserved parishioner into an independent and faithful woman. Wearing an afro and driving a purple Cadillac, she demonstrates to the church community what it means to stand by her husband and her convictions.