Step into the vibrant, soul-stirring world of the Church series by Carl Weber, where faith, temptation, and redemption collide in the heart of an African American community! This urban fiction saga, spanning five captivating novels, invites readers to a Queens, New York, megachurch where secrets lurk behind every pew. With its blend of drama, romance, and spirituality, Church hooks you with characters who feel like family—flawed, relatable, and unforgettable.
Weber’s storytelling shines a light on the complexities of modern faith, weaving tales that challenge readers to question morality and desire. Whether you’re drawn to juicy scandals or deep reflections on redemption, this series delivers a rollercoaster of emotions that’s hard to put down.
How Church Began
Carl Weber, a New York Times bestselling author and founder of Urban Books, launched the Church series in 2006 with The Preacher’s Son. Inspired by his roots in Jamaica, Queens, and a keen eye for human nature, Weber crafted a world where spirituality and scandal coexist. His goal? To tell authentic stories of African American life, blending faith-based settings with raw, unfiltered drama. Weber’s background in urban romance and his knack for relatable characters shaped Church into a standout series that resonates with fans of contemporary fiction.
The Heart of Church
The Church series kicks off with The Preacher’s Son, where Dante Wilson, son of Bishop T.K. Wilson, grapples with his father’s expectations and his own dreams of becoming a lawyer—plus a forbidden romance that rocks the church. So You Call Yourself a Man follows James Black, a charming trustee whose affairs threaten his faith and relationships. The First Lady dives into the life of Charlene Wilson, whose death prompts a battle for her role, revealing secrets and rivalries. Up to No Good continues the saga with James Robinson facing his past, while Torn Between Two Lovers explores love and loyalty through plus-sized diva Loraine Farrow.
Set in the bustling First Jamaica Ministries, the series tackles themes of faith, morality, and redemption with a bold, unflinching lens. Weber’s style is conversational yet poignant, blending humor, romance, and gritty realism. The African American church setting grounds the stories, offering a vivid backdrop where personal struggles mirror universal questions about sin, forgiveness, and purpose.
Each book stands alone but builds a rich tapestry of interconnected lives, making Church a binge-worthy journey. Weber’s characters—pastors, choir directors, and congregants—face temptations that test their beliefs, from illicit affairs to hidden ambitions, all while seeking redemption in a community bound by faith.
Why Church Resonates
The Church series has carved a niche in urban fiction, captivating readers with its authentic portrayal of African American spirituality and relationships. Fans praise its relatable characters and fearless exploration of taboo topics, from infidelity to church politics. Adapted into films like The Preacher’s Son (2017), the series has extended its reach, bringing Weber’s vision to new audiences. Its lasting appeal lies in its balance of entertainment and introspection, inviting readers to reflect on their own moral compasses.
In a genre often dominated by secular themes, Church stands out for its faith-driven narratives, making it a must-read for those seeking stories that entertain and inspire. Its impact on urban fiction underscores Weber’s talent for crafting dramas that feel both timeless and timely.
- Number of Books: 5
- First Published: 2006
- Genre: Urban Fiction, African American Literature
- Notable Adaptation: The Preacher’s Son (2017 film)
Ready to dive into a world where faith meets drama? Grab The Preacher’s Son and get lost in the Church series’ irresistible blend of scandal and salvation!