Book Description
Don't break up before the breakthrough!
Have you ever believed that you have fallen out of love, or said "I still love him but I'm not IN LOVE anymore?" In this groundbreaking guide to the physiology and psychology of lasting love, Dr. Pat Love reveals that love has normal, predictable stages that include highs and lows, and that many couples mistake the lows for the end of love. The Truth About Love is an inspiring, practical guide that will teach you how not to break up before the breakthrough realization: You can create the true love you long for with the partner you already have.
Customer Reviews:
Read it for the first chapter.......2007-09-04
This book gives you a good deal of information on the "infatuation" phase that I think many of us go through in meeting someone. I know that I have gone through it, and it helps in understanding where things go from there or why they end.
very good book.......2007-03-30
I thing every body should read this book at least once every few years as a reminder... even if we think we know enough about love by now....
excellent, practicall and right on.......2007-01-17
This book is full of good old common sense views on life and living with another especially in the context of having made a comitment to another. if your interested in the real basics behind maintaining and enjoying a comited relationship with another person, this is a great starting place.
A Life-Changing Read.......2006-12-03
My marriage counselor recommended this book but I had already made up my mind that divorce was imminent. Then the book came in the mail and I read it in one day. It was like Dr. Love wrote about my relationship! It forced me to look in the mirror and realize that if I made changes, instead of expecting only my spouse to change, my marriage might be salvaged. It is an extremely easy and quick read, written using simple language. I cried tears of joy after realizing that hope was not at all lost. The exercises provoked thoughtful discussions with my spouse and we are both now committed to trying many of Dr. Love's suggestions. True love goes through many transitions and you must be able to adapt to the different stages (which takes work!) Buy the book - it shows you how to recognize when changes are needed and how to make them.
Is the Magic Gone from Your 'Romance'?.......2006-11-10
Not enough pizazz in your relationship? No more thumpity-thump in your heart when it comes to 'romance'? Before you decide to dump your significant other, read this book. Both my husband and I can honestly say that the information went a long way in saving a perfectly good marriage - we just didn't know that we had one. Now we're pretty sure of it and hope to spend many more happy years together, truly in love.
Book Description
For years Gary Smalley has helped millions of couples throughout North America enrich their relationships and deepen their bonds of love and companionship. In this extraordinary book, he shows you how to stay in love through all the stages of life. From first attraction to lifelong commitment, Gary's proven techniques and practical advice show you how to pursue and keep the love you want, and how to energize your relationship with enduring, passion-filled love.
In this book you'll learn how to:
- Understand and use love's best-kept secret
- Deal with the number one enemy of love
- Turn headaches into more love
- Increase your energy to keep loving
- Find the power to keep on loving your spouse
- Use normal conflicts as doorways to intimacy
- Read a woman's built-in marriage manual twelve ways
- Divorce-proof your marriage
- Develop the five vital signs of a healthy marriage
- Respond to your partner's number one request
- Find the powerful secret to great love
- Bring out the best in your maddening mate
With humor, empathy, and insight, Gary Smalley inspires you to fall in love with life and enjoy the deep satisfaction of a lifelong love. Down-to-earth examples, touching personal experiences, and inspiring spiritual principles will motivate you to bring about positive changes in your marriage-whether or not your mate is a willing participant. You'll learn how to tap resources at hand to help you follow through with your journey-and make your love last forever.
Customer Reviews:
Gary Smalley will help you!.......2007-06-04
Gary Smalley's books will help every couple who reads them.
For more help with your marriage, take a look at these also:
The Man of Her Dreams The Woman of His 2 - Livin' It and Lovin' It! (Volume 2)
and
The Man of Her Dreams The Woman of His!
Making Love Last Forever.......2007-03-15
This is an excellent and useful book for married couples or engaged couples or anyone who is planning on getting married.
Sensible, Succint, and worth the money........2003-06-29
Garey Smalley presents a grand way to preserve a marriage: Develop a spiritual relationship with your spouse that outlasts ephemeral physical desire. While this is not a new idea, Smalley's personal presentation keeps the reader interested and tuned in.
I can't help reading for twice.......2002-11-04
The book describes the nature character of man and woman and the feature of the christian marriage. It has test to evaluate personal character, and summary the right love on the back of each chapter. It is really a handbook for happy marriage.
A must for every couples' library.......2002-05-02
There are many books about Christian love and many books about how to make love last forever. I would suggest this book over most others. Gary is a brilliant and insightful writer. I suggest this book for any Christian (or non-Christian) to reinforce how to make love last forever.
Average customer rating:
- Love Lasts Forever was an enjoyable read
- A Good Book
- Wonderful Book
- 'Kindred' for romance fans
- A well crafted IR romance story
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Love Last Forever (Love Spectrum Romance)
Dominiqua Douglas
Manufacturer: Genesis Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
General | Romance | Subjects | Books
Multicultural | Romance | Subjects | Books
General | Contemporary | Romance | Subjects | Books
General | Historical | Romance | Subjects | Books
General | Contemporary | Romance | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books
General | Romance | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books
General | Historical | Romance | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books
Multicultural | Romance | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books
All 4-for-3 Deals | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books
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Rock Star (Love Spectrum Romance)
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The Politics of Love (Noire Fever)
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ASIN: 158571187X |
Customer Reviews:
Love Lasts Forever was an enjoyable read.......2007-06-22
I didn't expect to find myself enjoying it quite so much since one it was partially set 1800's my ancestors were still in slavery, and I've always had a hard time dealing with that paricular era of American history. With that said it was a very romantic read. Thor was a wonderful hero, who finds out that life isn't over when you get knocked down, and his visit to his families past opens his eyes and his heart. Willow was warm and loving and courageous, and I love seeing heroines written that way. Escapism yes as all romance novels should be with angst and misunderstanding and deep love found by two well deserving people who both fought for justice in a time when one risked life and limb but realizing both that the rights of human beings are worth fighting for and if you find love along the way with a little help from a timepiece filled with magic well it's a good book to curl up with and enjoy. Definitely well edited and well recieved by me. I'd definitely buy another of Ms. Douglas' books can't wait till she graces us again with her talent.
JohnandVan
JV
A Good Book.......2007-03-24
I liked this book. Thor was a well crafted character and Willow was very likeable. The end dragged on a bit but the book was still a delightful read. We definately need more IR SCIFI books out there. This was a great addition to the bunch.
Wonderful Book.......2007-02-25
As far as IR romances go, this is one of the best ones I have read in a very long time. The characters were very believable. Although the book was reminiscent of Octavia Butler's Kindred, it more than held it's own. I can't wait to read her next novel.
'Kindred' for romance fans.......2007-02-04
Great story! Ms. Douglas truly has a gem here. I've read quite a few books by this publisher, but most have been awful. This is one of the best IR stories I've read. Throw in time travel, and it's Octavia Butler's 'Kindred' with a romance twist. The stories are different, but I liken them to each other b/c of the time travel.
At first, I was confused/skeptical because while in Kindred, it was obvious that the characters were switching worlds, this book appeared to have been done as a dream. That was my only point of confusion. Other than that....EXCELLENT!
A well crafted IR romance story.......2006-08-24
This book is definitely a keeper. It was engaging from start to finish. It was very well written and edited so was an easy read
(unlike some novels in this genre I could name).
This novel did many things right. Firstly it got the romance aspect correct between the main characters Thor and Willow. One could relate to the characters and believe that they fell in love. Also the chemistry between the two was hot. Next it skillfully wove the element of time travel. Thor travels back in time and meets Willow whom he falls in love with. Lastly the historical aspect of coming from a modern world and going back to days of slavery was treated in a credible manner. It was also interesting how one might react meeting their forebearers. Combining all the various elements together has produced a great romantic read.
Book Description
"It's a boy!"
To hear these words is the dream of every mother. From her son, a woman learns what it feels like to grow up in a male body. As his trusted adviser, teacher, and friend, she helps to shape his view of himself, of others, and of the world. She instills values and ideals that will stay with him throughout his life, and she has so many hopes and dreams for the man he will become. Because of her son, a mother's life will be more meaningful, her joys will be greater, and her heart will experience the greatest love imaginable.
"Boys will be boys!"
There are moments in a son's life when he tests his mother's resolve, as well as her patience, but the bond between them is unbreakable. She is his mirror for how he looks at the world and for how the world looks at him. As a child, he will turn to her for guidance, understanding, and support; as he grows older, he will do everything he can to protect and care for her. Though he may have difficulty putting his feelings into words, there is never any doubt of a son's respect, devotion, and incredible love for his mother.
"Like mother, like son."
For all their obvious differences, there could never be two people more alike. Their time together is filled with unforgettable memories and immeasurable rewards. The tenderness and pride they feel toward each other can only be surpassed by the happiness they share. Theirs is a close and enduring relationship that only a mother and son can ever know
and a very special feeling of love that lives forever in their hearts.
Customer Reviews:
tugs at your heart.......2006-06-30
This really hits home. As of mom of 3 boys and could find something that made me think of each of my 3 sons. A few even brought me to those "good" tears.
Average customer rating:
- Great gift
- BASICS
- Well, DUH!
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A Love That Lasts Forever
Gary Smalley
Manufacturer: Thomas Nelson
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
Love & Romance | Relationships | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books
Marriage | Relationships | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books
Human | Sexuality | Psychology & Counseling | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books
Marriage & Family | Sociology | Social Sciences | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
General | Parenting & Families | Subjects | Books
Smalley, Gary | ( S ) | Authors, A-Z | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 0849916771 |
Book Description
From the first blush of romance to the golden years of marriage, A Love That Lasts Forever helps couples find the keys to joyous longevity in marriage. Relationship expert Gary Smalley includes proven techniques and practical advice on pursuing and winning the love you want, and then keeping that love strong through all the stages of life. With a high concept interior design and a special presentation page in the front, this new edition is the perfect wedding gift.
Customer Reviews:
Great gift.......2007-05-08
We have chosen this as a wedding gift for all the couples in our church (Husband is a pastor.) Unfortunately it is now out of print, so we are going to have to search for something else.
BASICS.......2002-06-25
THIS BOOK IS VERY GOOD FOR A NEWLY ENGAGED COUPLE. IF YOU KNOW A COUPLE WHO IS VERY YOUNG AND WANT TO MARRY I WOULD DEFINITELY SUGGEST THIS BOOK. YOU WOULD BE SURPRISED AT HOW MANY PEOPLE DO NOT STOP TO THINK ABOUT THE ABSOLUTE BASICS. THEY DO NOT KNOW HOW TO FORM A SOLID RELATIONSHIP. MANY PEOPLE WOULD BENIFIT FROM THIS "BASIC" BOOK OF KNOWLEDGE.
Well, DUH!.......2001-01-27
I was attracted to this book by its beautiful presentation. The cover looks nice, that title is promising, the pictures inside are pretty, and both the cover and the pages are soft to the touch. I didn't have much time to spend reading any of it at the bookstore, but it made such a good impression on me that I bought it and carried on my busy day. I brought it right back to the store a few days later! There is little or nothing of value in this book. All the author does is state what I would believe is obvious to most people. If you want your marriage to be happy, you should pay attention to what he or she needs from the relationship. Don't focus on your own needs all of the time. Oh, and also, don't expect to be riding on cloud nine all of the time! You have to take the good times with the bad. Really? Fascinating! If you are looking for a HELPFUL book about relationships, I recommend "Saving Your Marriage Before It Starts" by Les and Leslie Parrott.
Product Description
Perfect Love: How to Find Yours and Make It Last Forever is the ground breaking new book by Brad and Jan Lundy for individuals and couples who are truly ready to transcend a conventional relationship and enter into an authentic experience of spiritual loving. Perfect Love presents a revolutionary new method - Soul Sailing™ - for accessing the unconditional love we all desire to experience with that special someone. It contains a comprehensive, relationship Toolbox, with easy-to-use tools, for doing exactly that, including how to access the "Vibration of Love" that can transform an ordinary relationship into an extraordinary spiritual partnership. This is practical spirituality at its finest, ideal for single people seeking spiritual love and couples desiring to create theirs!
Customer Reviews:
Everybody Should Read This Book.......2006-07-10
If only everybody could read this book the world would be a better place. Brad and Jan Lundy have certainly touched on something the world needs. We can all get something from this book.
Take your relationship to a higher level........2006-07-02
"Perfect Love" is a book for individuals and couples who are truly ready to transcend a conventional relationship and enter into an authentic experience of spiritual loving. How refreshing to find a book about relationships that recognizes Perfect Love is who we are! We are here to embody It and embrace It in our relationships, and Perfect Love shows us in practical ways how to do both. Dr. Patrick Duiven, Psychologist
This Book Changed My Life!.......2006-06-24
Brad and Jan Lundy have really hit the nail on the head with this book. I have read many self help/spiritual books and this one spoke to me so simply about where it all starts. It starts with my relationship with myself. Through this book, I was actually able to change not only my thinking but my behavior. While visiting a friend who was unhappy under the guise that everything was "going well", I was able to look at her and feel compassion for her position rather than be judgmental about her hiding her true self from me. That is a huge shift for me. I was also able to finally let go of a relationship understanding that what we were both doing was best for our true inner selves. I let go of anger, envy, regret and can now look at my relationships and myself with more compassion. More than how I look at things though, this book empowered to take action on some very important things in my life in a clear, loving and authentic way. It doesn't get much better than that!!
Can't wait to see what Brad and Jan write about next. They're truly amazing!
Finding Love in All the Right Places.......2006-05-16
Looking for love? Yearning to enhance the love relationship you have? Perfect Love: How to Find Yours & Make It Last Forever by Brad and Jan Lundy will help you find the love you're searching for by helping you raise your consciousness about who you are and why you are here. Filled with practical and spiritual wisdom, this book is easy to read and well organized-a reference book you will return to again and again when you need a reminder about your purpose in life, and and an inspiring thought or two to brighten your day. This is a perfect gift for newly weds as well as those who have been together for years. This is one book that will never go out of style!
A Great Discovery.......2006-04-28
Perfect Love, a breakthrough in relationships thinking, uncovers a profound secret of lasting romance in today's New Reality consciousness. Like all great discoveries, this one seems stunningly obvious once someone points it out. By seeing and appreciating the spiritual essence of your partner, your entire relationship is raised to a higher level, one where true romance becomes a living reality. This landmark book is filled with brilliant insights which show you exactly how, once and for all, to bring the joy of deep romance into your own life.
Owen Waters, author of "The Shift: The Revolution in Human Consciousness."
Average customer rating:
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Making Love Last Forever
Manufacturer: LifeWay Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: 0805497919 |
Product Description
This workbook is written to strengthen marriages.
Average customer rating:
- An Adventurous and Suspenseful Book
- About Only Earth and Sky Last Forever
- A good book, but the ending feels rushed and incomplete.
- A good book
- Well-written, first look into Native American culture
|
Only Earth and Sky Last Forever. (Harper Trophy Books)
Nathaniel Benchley
Manufacturer: HarperTrophy
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
Action & Adventure | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
General | Issues | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
Adventure & Thrillers | Literature & Fiction | Teens | Subjects | Books
Love & Romance | Literature & Fiction | Teens | Subjects | Books
General | Literature & Fiction | Teens | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 0064400492 |
Customer Reviews:
An Adventurous and Suspenseful Book .......2005-03-02
This was a very interesting book. It taught me about all the ruff times the Native Americans went through when the Englishmen moved to North America. The book also showed how badly the Englishmen treated the Native Americans. The Englishmen would give the Indians free supplies just for living on a reservoir. The free supplies they got though were either rotten food or torn disgusting blankets. Many of the Native Americans would rather die fighting than to die on the reservoirs. This led to many battles between the Native Americans and the Englishmen.
About Only Earth and Sky Last Forever.......2002-03-05
In the story, the main character lived in an Indian settlement. He saw a beautiful girl named Lashuka there, and decided that he wanted to marry her. He asked Lashuka's mother if they could be wed, but she saw no reason to let him marry her. She said that he didn't have anything to offer, so he went to join with the warriors and prove himself. He attacked a small number of white men with them, but something horrible happened. Agency warriors, Indian warriors that lived on the Bluecoats' land, attacked them and saved the white men. The thought of Sioux fighting Sioux disturbed him so much, he set out in hopes of ending it and proving himself to Lashuka's mother.
I enjoyed this book because it was really descriptive and its set a picture in my mind. It was interesting and I thought that it was a good topic for a book. It was exciting to see the plot unfold. I really enjoyed it, and I think that anyone who enjoys a good, adventurous book would really enjoy it, too. The beginning was good at preparing you for the rest of the book, and the middle and end was really exciting. It showed me what Native Americans went through, and I thought it was really interesting. Overall, it surprised me at how adventurous it was.
A good book, but the ending feels rushed and incomplete........1999-10-20
In search of novels about Native Americans for my seventh grade classes, I recently read this work. The story of Dark Elk's struggle to make sense of his world in the critical historical period leading up to the battle of Little Bighorn is filled with a realistic mixture of hope, sorrow, strength, and futility. Benchley had my attention right up until the ending. After the big battle scene, however, I felt that Benchley must have run out of ideas. He summarizes the rest of his character's life in two short, un-enlightening paragraphs. Whether this listless conclusion symbolizes the emptiness of Dark Elk's remaining years or not, I found it to be unsatisfactory.
A good book.......1999-04-19
this was an excellent book because it tells the life of the native americans who lived here before us. I recommend it to any age reader.
Well-written, first look into Native American culture.......1998-12-14
I must admit that I read this book about 28 years ago, but it touched something in me that I have not forgotten since. This book gives young people a glimpse into Native American culture in a way that can make them see the goodness of these people and their connection with the earth and all things in it.
I recently gave it to my 9 year-old son and he enjoyed it immensely. I can only hope that it showed him ways to treat (and not treat) others.
I highly recommend this book for parents who are trying to show their children some of the philosophy and culture of the people who were here before us and only wished to continue their way of life as they had for centuries.
Book Description
Haley Cutler is the consummate trophy wife. Perhaps "was" is the more accurate term. Haley married Prince Charming when she was only twenty years old – back in the day when highlights came from an afternoon at the beach, not three hours in the salon.
When Jay first turned his eye to Haley, she was putty in his slender, graceful hands. No one ever treated her like she was important, and on the arm of Jay Cutler, she became someone people listened to and admired. Unfortunately, after seven years of marriage, her Prince Charming seems to belong to the Henry the XIII line of royalty. When Haley loses Jay, she not only loses her husband, she loses her identity.
With her first independent decision, Haley leaves LA and moves home to Northern California. Feeling freedom just within her grasp, Haley learns that her settlement payments must go through one of Jay's financial advisors, Hamilton Lowe. Haley believes he's nothing more than a spy. And the feelings of distrust are mutual. Yet somehow, Hamilton finds himself handing over the monthly checks in person, and Haley can't deny that there's a kind of tenderness and protectiveness in Hamilton that she's never experienced in a man before.
But before Haley can even consider another relationship, she must learn to accept her inherent worth, and what it is to be loved for who she is, not what's on the outside.
Customer Reviews:
My favorite Billerbeck novel to date!.......2007-10-07
This story is incredible and deep, yet entertaining at the same time. In fact, I don't believe I've ever read a Christian fiction novel before that did such a fabulous job capturing the emotion a divorced woman feels and the self-condemnation that goes along with the whole situation. Billerbeck brings out some important truths through dialogue and relationships that is emotionally moving. I wish there were more books likes this in CBA. It's so real!
In addition to the above, this is one of the most romantic novels I've ever read and definitely Billerbeck's best novel in the genre. I love Women's Fiction and this story reads like Women's fiction with a touch of romance. Only this story will leave you breathless because the tension is so well done. The character arc is also one of the best I've read to date with the spiritual portion being subtle, yet powerful at the same time. Nothing is watered down, but it's all in there. And the ending is dynamite. I loved it!
Great chick lit fun with terrific message about divorce.......2007-10-03
The Trophy Wives' Club y Kristin Billerbeck is the story of Haley Cutler's self-discovery. Haley married Jay, a Hollywood producer, when she was only 20 and gave him all that she had for their almost eight years of marriage. Despite troubles between them, she was in it for eternity, just like her marriage vows said. But Jay has other ideas, and just before their eighth anniversary would give her more alimony, he changes the locks, cuts off her credit cards, and kicks her to the curb for a younger actress. Haley flounders trying to figure out what to do next. She gave up all of her dreams for Jay, and due to his constant insults, she questions whether she's capable of accomplishing anything other than being his wife. Jay's lawyer Hamilton introduces her to an ex-wives Bible study group at his church, and soon she starts feeling the Lord moving in her life. Haley makes friends, finds a home, and gets a great job, but most of all she learns to let go of Jay and her anger. I loved this book! Haley's anger toward herself and Jay is so realistic, it's easy to love her, despite her Gwyneth Paltrow looks and size 4 body. Her friends each have their own story of struggle with life after marriage. One of the reasons I loved this book was because of how Billerbeck treated divorce. As a divorcee myself, sometimes the black and white attitude toward divorce and marriage in Christian fiction makes me squirm in my seat. She addresses it as something God doesn't want, but it's not up to anyone else to judge, and sometimes it is the right thing to do. Thank you Kristin for that! Hamilton & Haley's relationship seemed a bit forced and hurried to me. Ideally, this would be a trilogy: part one finds Haley finding herself, part two allows her and Hamilton to fall in love, part three finds them planning the wedding and getting rid of baggage before their new life together. My one true gripe with the book has nothing to do with the writer: it was poorly edited. In one spot, Haley asks a question of Penny which obviously should have been asked of Lily. There are other spots with misspelled words and characters referred to as the wrong name. I do hope that there will be more books featuring these characters; they are too good to let go of.
Used wife up for sale.......2007-10-03
Ok now this is a topic I never dreamed would make it in the Christian fiction world. Women actually admitting they married their husband not for love but for status? Talk about edgy subjects. Which is why I wanted to read this book. I love Kristin's books so this was another book I really enjoyed. Haley is a character that grows throughout the novel. She starts off being spoiled and slightly angry to wanting to learn more about faith. It's a great transformation. The writing is hip and fresh, sprinkled with pop culture yet not too much that the references will be outdated by next year. This is chick lit so I enjoyed reading about the name brand clothes and famous shoes and purses even though I will never own one in my life. I felt that the scene with Haley confronting Hamilton to be very crucial in this day and age. Why does the wife get blamed if the husband decides to leave her? And then why will society and the church shun her? I applaud this book for showing that just because someone has had a divorce does not mean they have completed the unforgivable sin. This is a book that will get your thinking juices flowing. If you only like reading stories where estranged marriages always end up having a happy ending....I'd look elsewhere. But if you are a chick lit fan who loves edgy material that normally isn't found in Christian fiction, this book is definately for you. This is why when you think Christian chick lit you think Kristin Billerbeck.
Kristin does it again!.......2007-10-03
In this inspirational chick lit, Haley Cutler's role as wife is cancelled when her producer husband decides, after almost eight years of marriage, that he wants out. And thanks to an unfortunate pre-nup that Haley signed when she was in love and had stars in her eyes, she is left with nothing, except her clothes that were thrown out on the front porch-and a car. Her ex-husband, Jay, even kept her cat.
With nowhere to go except to her parents, Haley returns to her childhood home. But instead of the carefree girl she was when she left, now Haley is bitter, and determined to get Jay where it hurts. After all, he's moving on with a young starlet, and not only is he keeping his fortune, he's gaining someone else's.
Haley attends a meeting at a church that her husband's lawyer mentioned - a club for `Trophy Wives.' But these women seem too wrapped up in Bible study when what Haley needs is revenge--and someone to talk her through applying for a credit card, and other necessities. Will she find what she needs, and so much more?
The Trophy Wives Club is the first book in Kristin Billerbeck's newest series through Avon Inspire. Haley is understandably bitter after everything that happens to her, and she has some snappy lines, but it took me a long time to really care what happens to her. I find it hard to relate to a woman so far removed from Midwestern standards, and used to getting pedicures for fun, and wearing designer footwear.
But in typical Kristin Billerbeck style, the character did begin to grow on me, and I sympathized with her, eventually. The story is very well written, and did hold my interest to the end. And the faith message is a bit more obvious than in some of Billerbeck's other books, but it still isn't preachy (a feat that must have been hard to accomplish, since the club for Trophy Wives is actually a Bible Study group. Discussion questions are included at the end.
Armchair Interviews says: First in a new series by Billerbeck.
Rough Subject Matter - Sweet Story.......2007-10-02
Kristin Billerbeck does chick-lit like no other, as a matter of fact, she is called a Christian chick-lit pioneer in some circles.
It seems a shame to label someone as perky, fun, complex and multi-faceted as Kristin, as a pioneer. I just don't picture her covered in dust and ready for a monument or memorial plaque. But, that said, she does know Christian chick-lit.
The Trophy Wives Club, My fourth Billerbeck read, is the most satisfying on several different levels. The men take a backseat in this drama involving a pampered princess whose prince has moved on down the road, leaving her literally out on her well-clad backside. Without money flow, career and even friends, Haley finds her fairy tale life was far more fragile than she had even entertained within nightmares. This leaves Haley an opportunity to grow without being shaped by people who expect things from her. Instead she's left to find out who she is when new friends step in and offer her help getting back on her Donald Pliner clad feet.
Though chick-lit tends to be irreverent and not-so-deep, the Trophy Wives Club carries some grown up themes that end up puncturing an attitude or two if the reader is open to having attitudes tweaked. It's rare to find a line like this in just your ordinary chick-lit..."Marriage is like calculus. Complicated and inexplicably remote. People think it's about loving one another and riding off into the sunset, but no one tells you the horse is lame or that it's an eclipse, and there won't be a sunset that day." Of course, Haley goes on to qualify that statement with classic ticked-off princess flair. "Loving someone more than yourself takes more than effort -- especially when they want something different from you. Especially when the something different is a sleazy actress. The truth of what goes on inside any marriage is really only for those involved to know. "
The spiritual aspects are realistic. I would consider the subject matter pretty edgy for the Christian fiction crowd, especially those who prefer their reading to be uplifting all the time. Haley doesn't end up with a contrite husband ready to throw diamonds at her. His character proves to be beyond shallow. Yet Haley comes out with a whole lot more love than she ever thought possible.
This is a sweet escapist read. One for those who know Happily Ever After doesn't exactly look like the fairy tales. And those who are glad for that because those Grimm brothers told some freaky stories. Those who can't tolerate divorce or a story about it may not want to pick it up. If you like Billerbeck, you should like this slightly familiar, very different novel.
Books:
- The Unsung Hero (Seal Team 16, Book 1)
- Tie Me Up, Tie Me Down: Three Tales of Erotic Romance: Captivated by You / Promise Me Forever / Hunter's Right
- Too Deep for Words: Rediscovering Lectio Divina
- Traveling Mercies: Some Thoughts on Faith
- Treasures Underfoot : Quilting With Manhole Covers - Round 2
- Welcome to Oz: A Cinematic Approach to Digital Still Photography with Photoshop (VOICES)
- What's A Ghoul to Do? (Ghost Hunter Mysteries, Book 1)
- White Lies (The Arcane Society, Book 2)
- Wicked Fantasy: A Novel
- Without Reservations: The Travels of an Independent Woman
Books Index
Books Home
Recommended Books
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- History: Fiction or Science
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- Delirious New York: A Retroactive Manifesto for Manhattan
- Good Intentions Corrupted: The Oil for Food Scandal And the Threat to the U.N.
- Collected Plays, Volume Two
- ArtSpeak : A Guide to Contemporary Ideas, Movements, and Buzzwords, 1945 to the Present
- Architecture Is Elementary - Visual Thinking Through Architectural Concepts
- America's National Parks: How Well Do You Know Them