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Prepare to Quit
After reading Prepare to Quit: Finding the Keys to a Spirit-Filled Life Beyond Alcohol by Rose Ann Forte, I found myself deeply moved, both as a reader and as someone who values honest, faith-centered transformation. The book is a heartfelt and structured guide for those who are considering breaking free from alcohol dependency. It walks through eight “keys,” each representing a step toward not just sobriety, but a more meaningful, Spirit-filled life. Forte combines personal testimony, Scripture, neuroscience, and actionable exercises to help readers reframe their relationship with alcohol. Rather than jumping straight to quitting, she focuses on preparing to quit mentally, emotionally, and spiritually, which feels more compassionate and more effective.
Reading this book felt like listening to a wise friend who has been through it. Forte doesn’t lecture or shame. She opens up with real vulnerability about her own drinking habits, the way alcohol snuck into every part of her life, and how hard it was to admit it had become a problem. I enjoyed the honesty. And then she ties that into how God led her through recovery, not with force or fear, but with patience and truth. The writing is plainspoken, sometimes even chatty, but always sincere. I liked how she used simple, relatable metaphors like puzzles, paths, keys, and crosses to illustrate big, complex ideas. It helped the book feel grounded and made the process of quitting alcohol feel like a journey you can actually take.
What I appreciated most was how practical the book is without ever being rigid. Forte suggests journaling, support groups, visualization, and self-investment, but never in a “this is the only way” kind of tone. She invites you in. She gives tools and Scripture, then steps aside and lets you wrestle with what works for you. That level of grace and flexibility is rare in self-help books, especially those tackling addiction. I did sometimes wish the writing had more variation in tone, it leans on encouragement and Scripture, which is beautiful, but I think a little more narrative storytelling or emotional contrast might’ve made certain moments land harder.
I’d recommend Prepare to Quit to Christians who feel stuck in a cycle with alcohol or who are just beginning to question their drinking habits. It’s gentle, but not soft. It’s hopeful, but not naïve. And most of all, it’s built on a foundation of faith and renewal, rather than shame. Whether you’re exploring a sober-curious path or seriously considering giving up alcohol for good, this book can help you feel less alone and far more equipped.
Pages: 120 | ASIN : B0F1TMH2D2
Re-Imagining Contentment: Living Life from God’s Perspective
ReShone L. Moore’s Re-Imagining Contentment is a heartfelt roadmap to finding peace amid life’s hardships. Blending scriptural wisdom with her lived experience of chronic illness, Moore guides readers through a seven-step journey toward contentment, defined not by worldly measures but by spiritual alignment with God’s will. From the metaphor of the Potter in Jeremiah to her own battle with multiple sclerosis, Moore illustrates how surrender, trust, and reflection are vital tools for emotional and spiritual healing.
I found Moore’s writing both intimate and grounding. She doesn’t sugarcoat the reality of pain—physical, emotional, or spiritual. Her vulnerability in the “Prologue,” where she recounts her diagnosis and the day she experienced “foot drop,” is raw and powerful. But rather than wallow, she transforms this pain into purpose. In Chapter 1, “The Potter,” she reflects on how disobedience and striving without God led her to discontent, and how returning to the Creator reframed her view. The metaphor is simple yet effective: God, as the potter, molds us, mess and all. It’s a reminder that even in brokenness, we are in divine hands.
What struck me most was Moore’s pushback against the notion that contentment equals complacency. Her step-by-step breakdown, especially in chapters like “Step #1 – Reflect” and “Step #2 – Reject,” teaches that being content doesn’t mean giving up dreams—it means releasing the burden of control. She writes about surrender not as defeat, but as “a position of power and peace.” Her honesty when describing letting go of her beloved high heels—a small but symbolic act—was strangely emotional for me. I saw in that moment the thousands of compromises we all make with grief, and how dignity can survive change.
Chapter 7, Concluding with a Plan (Repeat When Needed), brings the journey full circle by reinforcing the idea that contentment isn’t a destination—it’s a continual process. Dr. Moore reminds readers that the seven steps outlined in the book are not one-time fixes but tools to be revisited as life unfolds. She encourages becoming a “lifelong learner,” emphasizing the importance of spiritual growth, reflection, and renewal. This chapter feels like a gentle nudge to stay the course, no matter how many times we stumble.
I’d recommend this book to anyone struggling with transition, loss, or burnout, particularly those whose faith is part of their healing journey. It’s not a self-help book in the traditional sense; it’s more like a long, healing letter from someone who’s been through it and found the light anyway. Moore writes with soul, spirit, and strength. Her journey through MS becomes a ministry of encouragement for the rest of us. This book helped me breathe deeper, think wider, and pray more honestly.
Pages: 132 | ASIN : B0DW4H8XL8
The Keys to the Kingdom
James Rondinone’s The Keys to the Kingdom is an exhaustive exploration of the question that quietly haunts many believers: Is salvation a permanent gift or a fragile prize? Through an uncompromising dive into Scripture, personal reflection, and theological comparison, Rondinone breaks down differing views on salvation—particularly the debate between works-based and grace-based doctrines. The book travels from his early religious upbringing to a detailed scriptural defense of the irrevocability of salvation, all while tackling complex theological terms with a conversational tone that invites even the uncertain reader to engage.
What I liked most was Rondinone’s willingness to pull back the curtain on his own journey. He doesn’t hide behind academic distance. In Chapter One, for example, he shares how disillusionment with ritual-based religion pushed him to seek a personal connection with God, not just a checklist of behaviors: “I needed a God who would become personal, i.e., my best friend”. That moment resonated deeply—it’s raw, vulnerable, and speaks to a yearning so many of us wrestle with but rarely say aloud. His later explanation of Ephesians 2:8-9, emphasizing salvation as a one-time, grace-given gift and not something that can be earned or lost, is powerfully clear: “These believers received the reality of being saved because they accepted grace at a point in time in the past with present continual results…”. That kind of clarity gave me peace.
Rondinone is passionate but there were parts, especially in the middle chapters, comparing theological interpretations, where the repetition of scriptural exposition started to feel a bit heavy. That said, the inclusion of contrasting views (like those of Catholicism, Mormonism, and Buddhism) was enlightening. It helped me see how widespread and diverse the interpretations of salvation truly are. I also appreciated the real-world cautionary tale of the “miracle car” scam. It was jarring, sad, and served as a necessary reminder of how spiritual vulnerability can be exploited—even in God’s name.
The Keys to the Kingdom challenged me, encouraged me, and made me reexamine what I thought I understood about salvation. I would recommend this book to Christians who feel unsure about where they stand in their faith—or who want to better understand why others believe what they believe. It’s not an easy read in terms of length or emotional weight, but it’s sincere, Scripture-rich, and deeply personal. If you’ve ever laid awake wondering whether God’s grace really holds, this book might be exactly what your heart needs.
Pages: 137 | ASIN : B0F1DD2JH4
Success Against the Odds
June Raleigh’s Success Against the Odds is a compelling and succinct historical exploration that weaves together narratives of individuals who turned to faith during their most trying times. Through its rich storytelling and biblical insights, the book provides thought-provoking answers to some of life’s most profound questions. Readers are invited to journey through the landscapes of ancient Israel, guided by a tapestry of sources that include Old Testament scriptures and Talmudic narratives. Raleigh’s thoughtful essays on free will and her vivid portrayals of remarkable figures—such as the influential historian and general Flavius Josephus and the fearless Judith, who risked everything to save Judah—create an intellectually and spiritually enriching experience.
The characters within this book are its beating heart, and Raleigh brings them to life with meticulous care. Their distinct personalities and virtues are sketched in a manner that makes them not only relatable but memorable. For instance, Joseph is painted as a complex and persuasive figure, while Judith is celebrated for her extraordinary courage and beauty. Despite their historical and cultural distance, these individuals resonate with contemporary readers, demonstrating the timeless relevance of their stories.
Raleigh incorporates an array of biblical passages, selecting and interpreting them with care. Her explanations simplify profound spiritual messages, making them accessible to a wide audience. The clarity of these interpretations invites readers to engage more deeply with scripture, unveiling its enduring wisdom and relevance. Among the book’s many memorable moments, one piece of advice stood out for its resonance: a reminder to reject greed and embrace contentment, finding joy in love, relationships, and the simple comforts of life. This sentiment encapsulates the book’s overarching message—hope, resilience, and the transformative power of faith.
Success Against the Odds, by June Raleigh, is a must-read for anyone seeking inspiration from history and scripture. Raleigh’s insightful reflections and meticulous attention to detail result in a work that is both uplifting and instructive. Whether you are a Christian or simply curious about the lives and legacies of extraordinary individuals, this book offers valuable lessons for all. Its timeless stories and teachings have the potential to impact readers across the globe, offering guidance and encouragement to those who need it most.
Pages: 87 | ASIN : B09DTCGJVK
My Authentic Self
Invitation to Co-Creation: A Spiritual Path from Child Abuse and Religious Trauma to Love, Healing, and Oneness is a personal and courageous exploration from the scars of childhood abuse and religious trauma. Why was this an important book for you to write?
There were a number of reasons why it was important for me to write my memoir. The process of healing childhood and religious trauma was empowering and transformational. By sharing my journey I hope readers are inspired to discover their own unique paths to healing and know that it’s always possible to overcome adversity.
I also wanted to tell my story because many of my traditional family and friends were unfamiliar with my traumatic background and current progressive Christian beliefs. They had no frame of reference to understand my spiritual experiences or belief in a loving, inclusive God. Through my writing, I tried to create a bridge to help my loved ones know me better. I had hidden my authentic self most of my life. My intense fear of rejection kept me silent. It took a leap of faith to share so vulnerably and publicly. It was freeing when I finally found the courage to speak my truth.
Though it was my personal goal to create a bridge of understanding from the traditional to the nontraditional for my family and friends, it became clear that, in this era of polarization, we need a way to span the gaps between our differences now more than ever, so that we can engage more respectfully with one another. Thus, my personal goal of bridging divides expanded into a broader purpose for this book.
The actual inspiration for my book occurred in 2015 when I reached out to Blessed Mother Mary for healing and direction for my life, and I received a message to write Invitation to Co-Creation. As I reflected on the traumas I had experienced and where I was stuck in my life, I was encouraged to make changes and then write about them. It was also important for me to showcase another message I received from Mother Mary – a vision of oneness and global harmony that all are invited to co-create. It wasn’t until I was further along on my journey that I realized my personal healing goals intertwined with this collective vision.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
It was important to share my understanding of co-creation as a dynamic, interactive process between a benevolent God and humanity. I initially experienced co-creation thirty-seven years ago when I developed a debilitating medical condition that stymied traditional medicine. After a prayer for healing, I was divinely guided step-by-step (through signs, intuitions, and synchronicities) to complementary healing practitioners and treatments until I was healed. This was the first time I experienced co-creating my life with the Divine, even though I didn’t have a word for it back then. Through the process of co-creation, I was also led on a divinely guided journey to heal from childhood and religious trauma, which freed me to know self-worth, find forgiveness for my parents, experience peace in my progressive Christian beliefs, and live with love, joy, and authenticity.
However, co-creation isn’t just for me. It’s part of everyone’s spiritual heritage as a child of God and the Universe to ask questions and receive answers. In my book, I describe the process of co-creation and how to tune into divine guidance in greater detail, and I offer additional personal examples.
Oneness is another concept I wanted to bring to life. Mother Mary shared her vision of oneness– that we’re one interconnected human family– and her hope that this awareness would lead to a peaceful world. When we remember we’re all in this together, we’re more likely to focus on our commonalities and engage in collaboration and cooperation to find personal and global solutions that work for all.
(Incidentally, oneness doesn’t mean uniformity; rather it’s a unity that also honors diversity, where everyone is included, valued, and respected.)
I deeply resonated with Mother Mary’s vision of oneness. It was easy to imagine standing in a circle holding hands with diverse, unknown people from all corners of the world, coming together as one. However, on a personal level, I also struggled with this vision, because I felt separate from those that hurt me. My traumatic experiences from childhood and religious trauma threatened our bonds. It took an inner journey where I learned to live from my heart, instead of my hurt, to rekindle my connection with them. By healing the rifts within myself and the disconnection in my relationships, oneness became a real-life experience.
I suspect I’m not alone in finding it easier to align with an ideal vision of oneness. It’s far more challenging to come back to the real world and heal the hurts that keep us alienated from one another and engage respectfully across our divides. But this nitty-gritty work is exactly what we need to do.
We’re at a crossroads. Major polarizations and divisions are pulling us apart.
We have an opportunity to reverse this course. We’ve been invited to build bridges to one another, reconcile our relationships, and see the world as an “us”, rather than as an “us versus them.” Invitation to Co-Creation offers inspiration and practical tools to make the dream of oneness in our relationships, communities, and world a possible reality.
What was the most challenging part of writing your memoir, and what was the most rewarding?
Hands down, the most challenging circumstances to share were the traumatic events from my childhood that reverberated into adulthood, impacting every area of my life. However, writing was also very therapeutic. It was gratifying to see and experience the healing that brought me to the place where I am today.
Without diminishing the negative influence that childhood and religious trauma have had on my life, these core wounds also acted as catalysts for my spiritual growth. These life challenges were the hidden gifts that moved me out of victimhood and into empowerment. As I became the author of my life I found meaning, passion, and a purpose that went beyond my personal healing to collective healing. It has been very rewarding to share my journey and the broader purpose of my book– Mother Mary’s vision of global oneness.
What do you hope is one thing readers take away from your story?
When you co-create your life with the Divine you’ll be embarking on your most rewarding spiritual journey ever. You’ll realize that the Divine is always available to empower, support, and guide you to become the best version of yourself and to live the beautiful life you’re meant to live. The significance of undertaking your journey can’t be overstated because all personal healing leads to collective healing. When you transform yourself for the better, there’s a ripple effect, and you transform the world for the better.
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
This spiritual memoir tells a story of hope and transformation that invites readers to embark on their own journey for personal and collective healing.
Lorrie’s harsh childhood and toxic religious upbringing echoed with punishment and abandonment. Trauma ruled her world. For years fear kept her from sharing her true self, beliefs, and family secrets. But after a prayer for healing, she was invited on a mystical, co-creative journey that changed her life. Divinely guided inner work freed her to know self-worth, find forgiveness, and experience peace, and joy. She found the courage to live her truth. She left the wrathful, excluding God of her childhood behind and was welcomed by a benign, compassionate, inclusive God.
While praying to Mother Mary, Lorrie received a message to write this book, as well as an inspired vision of unity in diversity–a circle of global harmony that all are invited to co-create. This vision mirrored her progressive Christian belief in a loving God, inclusive of all faiths and spiritual paths.
But how do you live in oneness when beliefs and views clash and emotions are triggered?
This timely memoir details one woman’s journey to heal past traumas, honor differences, and expand the circle of inclusion–and reveals how you can too.
Invitation to Co-Creation offers tools for individual and communal healing and is for you if you’d like to:
Find inspiration to overcome life challenges, heal trauma, and make a difference.
Discern divine guidance and experience your own co-creative journey for an amazing soul-purposed life.
Discover how an inclusive spirituality promotes a sense of being one interconnected human family.
Create bridges and foster healing in relationships and communities to bring the dream of global oneness one step closer.
Invitation to Co-Creation: A Spiritual Path from Child Abuse and Religious Trauma to Love, Healing, and Oneness
M. Lorrie Miller’s memoir, Invitation to Co-Creation, is a deeply personal and courageous exploration of healing from the scars of childhood abuse and religious trauma. Lorrie’s early years were fraught with abandonment, harsh discipline, and the weight of a toxic religious environment. These experiences led her to retreat into herself, concealing her beliefs, emotions, and painful family secrets. Everything changed when she embarked on a transformative journey. Through inner work and spiritual growth, Lorrie uncovered forgiveness, self-respect, kindness, and a profound sense of self-love. Most significantly, she found peace and love within herself. This journey allowed her to shed the trauma of her past, step into a healed version of herself, and share her powerful story of redemption and growth.
In her memoir, Lorrie answers universal questions such as how do we survive life’s most devastating challenges? How do we move forward to find hope and meaning? Her narrative is raw and vulnerable, written to inspire readers of all backgrounds—spiritual, religious, or otherwise. She bares even the darkest moments of her life to show that healing and transformation are attainable.
This book is both deep and thought-provoking. I was moved by the depth of her story and its ability to offer hope and inspiration to anyone seeking healing, regardless of their spiritual or religious beliefs. Lorrie’s unflinching honesty makes her journey relatable and impactful. While I enjoyed the book, I felt the book’s writing style occasionally affects its clarity. At times, Lorrie’s intentions were less clear, which could make it challenging for readers who are less familiar with spiritual or religious concepts to fully engage with certain passages. However, once the rhythm of her voice becomes familiar, the narrative flows more smoothly. This memoir deserves recognition for its authenticity and courage.
Lorrie’s journey is one of resilience, transformation, and the pursuit of inner peace. Invitation to Co-Creation stands as a testament to the strength of the human spirit, and I honor her willingness to share her story with such openness. Its message of healing and hope makes it a meaningful read.
Pages: 297 | ASIN : B0DPB773X8
Purpose: What Evolution and Human Nature Imply about the Meaning of Our Existence
Samuel T. Wilkinson’s Purpose boldly tackles one of life’s grandest questions: Why are we here? Drawing from evolutionary biology, psychology, and theology, Wilkinson builds an argument that evolution, far from being purely random, reveals a higher purpose guided by natural principles. He links humanity’s dual nature—selfishness versus altruism—to the evolutionary forces that shape us. Through this framework, Wilkinson examines profound questions about morality, happiness, and the societal structures that foster human flourishing.
What stood out most to me was Wilkinson’s ability to bridge science and faith. He does so in a way that feels inclusive, not preachy. For instance, his discussion of convergent evolution—the independent development of similar traits in unrelated species—challenges the randomness of evolution. When he points out how dolphins and sharks evolved streamlined forms independently, it’s hard not to feel awe. Wilkinson makes a strong case that these repeated patterns hint at a purpose embedded in nature itself. This was eye-opening and left me rethinking my own assumptions about evolution.
The writing itself is thoughtful and engaging. I appreciated how Wilkinson wove personal anecdotes, like his own struggles with reconciling faith and science, into broader arguments. These moments made the text relatable. His tone remains accessible even when discussing complex topics, such as the psychological effects of incivility or the health benefits of prosocial behaviors. The chapter on family relationships as the foundation of societal well-being struck a particularly emotional chord for me. Wilkinson’s argument that family ties strengthen our altruistic tendencies felt deeply resonant and hopeful.
At times, the pacing felt uneven, particularly in the middle chapters. I believe that some sections, such as the technical discussion of embryonic development as an analogy for evolution, seemed a bit too detailed for a general audience. Still, these moments are outweighed by the clarity of his broader message.
I’d highly recommend Purpose to anyone curious about the intersection of science and spirituality. It’s a thought-provoking read for believers grappling with evolution, skeptics seeking a deeper understanding of faith, or anyone interested in exploring what it means to live a meaningful life. Wilkinson’s synthesis of research and reflection offers a fresh perspective that inspires both introspection and action. This is a book that challenges, uplifts, and ultimately leaves you hopeful about the human journey.
Pages: 321 | ASIN : B0BTZX7D3R
See the Good/God in Everything
Regina Clifford’s See the Good/God in Everything presents a compelling case for gratitude as the right approach to handling life’s challenges. Through an inspiring and deeply personal account of motherhood, faith, and everything in between, Clifford invites readers to seek divine purpose and goodness in their everyday struggles. Structured as a collection of heartfelt reflections and prayers, each snippet focuses on different aspects of human life.
Clifford punctuates these reflections with Bible verses and prayers that offer comfort and invite readers to reflect on their life experiences. Her simple, accessible, and conversational approach makes the reader feel she understands your hardships and seeks to soothe you. Her candid sharing of her own life and struggles fosters a sense of camaraderie and connection, making readers feel they are not alone.
The author carefully and tactfully explores perceptions and challenges across different spheres of life, emphasizing that no experience is less valuable than another. She validates and hears the reader without them needing to unburden themselves. The rapport and sense of community she creates through her relatable narrations and occasional light humor prevent the book from becoming too heavy or overwhelming. One significant takeaway from this book, in addition to practicing gratitude, is the power of patience. Clifford assures readers that everything passes eventually, and all you need to do is get through today. Tomorrow will take care of itself. Her honesty makes the book highly relatable, providing solace to readers who feel they are not alone in their struggles. The Bible verses are relevant and subtly integrated within the narrative.
See the Good/God in Everything is heartfelt and encouraging, offering honest and valuable hope and support. It serves as a much-needed reminder of God’s presence and the silver linings in life. Regina Clifford’s work will resonate with anyone who reads it, making it a universally relatable and uplifting read.
Pages: 304 | ISBN : 978-0975663639
LITERARY TITAN 