“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, lean not on your own understanding. Acknowledge Him in all ways and He will direct your path.” – Proverbs 3:5-6

As a non religious person, I was compelled to purchase and read this book based on seeing the author speak. Her depth of faith and heart came through as she shared deeply personal stories that showed me how I can use faith in the hard times. I loved her metaphor of broken glass and how it repeated, because we were led to believe that we aren't supposed to have difficulties. Instead, the author shows how to navigate the challenges and stay on course. It was a comforting, easy read. I enjoyed this book immensely.

I loved the uniqueness of this book. The interviews of the women were a brilliant idea, and I appreciated hearing so many different stories of challenges and victories. Carmen also shares about her fascinating life journey and sprinkles in wisdom and insights she has gained over the years. You will be gently coached and inspired as you read!

A heartfelt and faith-filled read that beautifully captures God’s transforming power through real stories of courage and redemption. Carmen Maendel’s collection uplifts, inspires, and reminds you of the strength found in trusting Jesus.

As a Christian counselor and speaker, I find "Courageous Woman Casting Cares upon Jesus" to be a remarkable testament to the power of faith and resilience. Carmen Maendel’s captivating storytelling draws readers into the lives of extraordinary women who have faced unimaginable trials, emerging not just as survivors but as triumphant warriors of faith. Each chapter is infused with inspiration and emotional depth, making it impossible to resist turning the page to uncover the next powerful story.

Carmen’s writing takes you on a magical journey of heart and healing, showcasing the transformative power of God’s love and grace. The narratives are rich with insights that resonate deeply, illustrating how faith can guide us through life’s challenges. The practical tools and reflection questions woven throughout the book are invaluable for anyone feeling stuck, providing gentle guidance to reconnect with God and His promises.
Having had the privilege of hearing Carmen speak, I can personally attest to her exuberance, confidence, and deep integrity. Her grounded approach in Godly wisdom consistently brings people back to Jesus, reminding us that we are never alone in our struggles.

"Courageous Women of God" is more than a collection of stories; it’s a powerful guide that encourages us to embrace our divine purpose. This book offers not just inspiration but also a pathway to healing and empowerment. As you journey through these pages, may you find renewed courage to face your challenges, knowing that with God’s help, we can rise above our circumstances and walk boldly in our faith.

This book reveals Carmen’s unshakable faith in God and that of the many women she has interviewed. She offers a wealth of biblical quotations from among her own favorites and those of her subjects. Also, suggestions for further reflection and meditation. Because the book describes many moments of crisis in various lives, it offers positive quotes from scripture and practical suggestions for meeting moments of stress or disaster and examples of living through such experiences with the knowledge that God and Jesus are always to be relied on.

While I have not achieved the faith that Carmen has, she is a beacon for all who seek it as well as spiritual advice. She is not dogmatic, but suggests the 80/20 rule for working out and healthy eating. (Be disciplined 80% of the time, but give yourself a break 20% so that cravings don’t build up.)

She cites scripture addressing love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, and self-control. What more can one ask for? She also gives suggestions for the usefulness of journaling when challenging oneself to set new goals.

The twenty-eight things in Chapter 6 turned out to be twenty-five—but all solid and therefore sufficient: useful suggestions for applying the Fruits of the Spirit to daily life. Carmen’s advice about motivation and discipline is key to having consistency in creating better habits.
The interviews of other women are sensitive and remarkable for their candid descriptions of facing abuse, addiction, accidents and health crises that many have faced (or will). The end of the book is a series of tales with morals to ponder and prayers accompanying them.

All in all, a wonderfully refreshing book of life stories and profiles of faith in challenging circumstances.