Disappointed...again (book review)

In an effort to encourage women in their faith through trusting God, Sheila Walsh fails to produce the content that makes this book worth purchasing. I decided to give this book a try after being terribly disappointed in Ms. Walsh’s other newly released book, “Let Go.” (although this one is probably slightly better) There is no doubt that Thomas Nelson has the “marketing” that is needed to produce a great title and topic. The problem is that the author has deadlines and the writing and content clearly shows it.

In the introduction and first few chapters, it appears that Sheila Walsh is throwing out all the stops and being “remarkably transparent.” (as the back matter of the book reads) But, it doesn’t take long for the author to divert the attention from her deep struggles and stay on the surface of it all. The only thing that she reveals is that she was in a psychiatric hospital and takes anti-depressants. Just when you think you might start connecting with the writer, she cuts you loose and then proceeds to seemingly rewrite portions of the Old and New Testament…according to Sheila Walsh. It was more than mildly annoying to read the author’s “side bar” comments about what Mary “might have been thinking or saying” at the birth of Jesus. (this occurs with all of the other characters in the biblical stories as well) In the end, the book fails to produce a powerful conclusion…you finish the book asking, “What does happen???” The Bible Study at the end of the book is “okay.” It is nothing that you haven’t heard, haven’t read, or haven’t examined in your faith.

In addition, I was shocked at the lack of editing in this book. It is what I would expect from a “self publishing” group. There were missing punctuation at the end of sentences, hyphens where they don’t belong, misspelled words, etc. If you’re going to mention a pastor as remarkable and well respected as Dr. R.T. Kendall…don’t misspell his name…TWICE! Also, I realize that in Britain “crucifixion” has been acceptable spelled as “cruciFICTION.” But really, as CHRISTIANS (Thomas Nelson) and as a woman (Sheila Walsh) working towards a Masters in Theology are we really going to spell it cruciFICTION??? It makes a mockery of the resurrection of Christ.

*I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255