The title alone made me want to download this book, even though the reviews on Amazon were mixed. I found the criticism there was too much unnecessary detail to be true. I did consider ditching the book on the second chapter because the dialog and pacing seemed a little labored. The story was hindered by things like details of fast food orders. Yet I kept listening since I had already paid the credit to Audible, and I did want to hear Moody's take on a burnt-out pastor's wife. By the 3rd or 4th chapter, the story picked up the pace and turned out to be worth my credit.

Other negative reviews said the story ended the loose ends too neatly, but it is a story meant to entertain and make you think. I think any pastor's wife would come away from the book wanting to discuss at least some of the issues raised in the book with her husband. Other readers will come away with a more sympathetic view of their pastors and their families. Diane Moody raises issues that are common for couples in ministry, not the exceptions, and she does it in an entertaining framework that isn't heavy handed. Yes, the main character's actions are an irresponsible way of handling the situation, but this books isn't recommending you run away--it's just exploring the possibility if you did. What woman hasn't had even a fleeting thought about running away from her problems without telling anyone beforehand?

So if you want a little "escape" --pun intended-- this book will give you that without the guilt.
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Title: The Runaway Pastor's Wife
Author: Diane Moody
Publisher: Old Barn Trace Books
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: 4
Review:

"The Runaway Pastor's Wife" by Diane Moody was quite some interesting Christian fiction read of just how "how pastors/vicar's wives cope with the constant demands on their time and how they feel about having their husband's attention only partially focused on the family." Being a preacher kid I thought this novel was very well written showing how someone is just so upset up with it all and just needing to step away for some time to get it all back together again. However, while this pastor's wife is away will she be able to get what she feels she has lost? I did enjoy the 'Christian and the Godly' talks that were entered into the novel. Be prepared for a long detailed read. This author put it all in, however, I felt that toward the end some things were not delivered such as what happened to certain characters. I found the characters for the most were very well developed definitely pulling you into the novel, however toward the end I was left hanging somewhat with the novel being too quick and believable? For example: The husband accepted everything with no questions being asked and his marriage was restored and every thing was just OK?? Now, don't get me wrong I still enjoyed the read with the main and secondary characters...some were simply off the charts good while some were not....but the plots/subplots and all were well written until the end with it being somewhat rushed. I will say to really understand this read you must pick up "The Runaway Pastor's Wife" to see for yourself how this author presents it to the readers. Would I recommend? Yes! ( )