I've read the first book in Rick Leland's Jesus at Walmart trilogy, just finished his second book, and I am looking forward to this talented author's third book in the trilogy. This book continues where the first book left off. You can read this second book without reading the first book in the trilogy because the author does provide concise, but informative flashbacks to put the story in context. HOWEVER, I HIGHLY SUGGEST you read the first book Jesus at Walmart...a reed shaking in the wind in the series to get the full enjoyment from the trilogy.
I really don't want to describe the plot too much because I do not wish to "give anything away". But like in the first book, there are a series of surprising plot twists and turns. What is so unique about these books is the fact that even with these twists and turns, the books are very "relaxing" to read. By "relaxing", I simply mean that they don't "stress the reader out", but instead they do make you want to continue to read (and read and read) in order to find out what happens next in Malachi's life. Throughout these novels, the author shares a great deal of wisdom, probably some from his own life experiences, some from memorable hymns, and a lot directly from the Bible. However, the novels are not overwhelmed with "preachiness". The author is amazingly talented with descriptions and personalities, and that type of writing makes you feel like you're right there in the middle of the story.
