I had the opportunity of reading this book as well, and it's definitely something that young adult ladies will want to check out. It touches on some very hard questions that we face -- a lot of the norms we face as well -- and challenges them in light of God's Word. Valentine has a very personal touch to her writing; it almost feels like you're just there having a chat with her. It's very easy to read, enjoyable, thought-provoking, and keeps your attention the entire way through the book, which is impressive for a nonfiction/instructional book. It's something that will encourage you to dig into the Bible to find answers for yourself, which is super important. There are also some great discussion questions/journaling prompts included in each chapter. Overall, it's a great book to check out; very open, honest, and down-to-earth.

I struggle because I started this one and feel like it’s a good book but I am not the right audience. I originally went in thinking this was exactly up my alley, and I realized quickly that this was meant for a more niche audience than I thought.

I don’t think it’s the fault of the book or author, and I think there’s a wide audience that would really enjoy this one.

Surface level, often comes across as bratty or self-absorbed, and definitely not something I'd recommend for anyone older than 24 (not applicable and will seem childish).

In her book "Is It Just Me?" author Grace Valentine asks if we've ever experienced doubts, fears, loneliness, and issues with trust? My answers are "Yes, I've felt these emotions" and "NO, Grace, it isn't just you!" I like that Valentine writes in an easy, conversational style and uses many of her own life experiences as illustrations, I also appreciate that she references Bible scripture and that she ends each chapter with Real Talk, a section of statements and questions to help increase our understanding.

"Is It Just Me?" may seem to target young women but I consider it a wonderful resource for all of us who've wondered what our purpose is and whether we will ever get it right. It is enlightening, encouraging, empowering, and it affirms that even when we don't get it right, it won't affect God's love for us!

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book that I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

I may not fall anywhere near Grace Valentine’s reader demographic but found her voice in Is It Just Me? authentic and relatable. Every woman struggles with feeling alone in their seasons of life.

Armed with truths bathed in scripture, plenty of personal anecdotes, and touches of humor, Valentine gets real with readers, in much the same way as a concerned and caring friend would. Yes, we’ve all made decisions we’re not proud of today and this author reminds us of that—all of us have been there. And God is okay with that. He doesn’t expect perfection in us (thank goodness!) but he longs for us to go to Him with our struggles and hurts and disappointments.

Valentine may be young, but God has given her a wealth of wisdom. Isn’t it refreshing to find someone so young who is passionate about putting Jesus first in her life? And how can you not appreciate wisdom like this: “On your difficult days, eat ice cream.”?



Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

Wow! What can I say? This book is hands down life changing. Grace Valentine has a gift for getting raw and real from the get go and doesn't let up. Like a friend sitting down with you over coffee when life gets tough, Grace has a way of getting to the point, and telling the truth in love.

From the introduction I was right on point with what Grace's message was, and it instantly began to speak to me. I skimmed through it to get the general idea, but am now going back to delve deeper, and really interact with the text. This resource is so rich, and it is astounding that Grace is only 23 years old!

The main message that we are not alone is one that we all need to hear right now, especially in our current world, and the fears and doubts that I have are shared by many, even if I don't realize it. I am not alone in my struggles. We are all struggling. It was a revelation that just clicked in my mind and heart, and filled me with a sense of peace. Relying on the strength of the Lord, and the strength and faith of others, I know I am going to be ok. WE are going to be ok.

I can't wait to dive deeper into the "Real Talk" questions that are included at the end of each chapter, and continue the eye-opening. It's so easy to get focused on our own battles, and this is a great reminder that we are all fighting the good fight!

Thank you Grace for exquisitely pouring your heart out in, and writing, Is It Just Me?. Your words, and the Lord, are changing my mind and my life.

Is It Just Me? by Grace Valentine is a book that shares stories and advice to show the reader they are not alone in their thoughts and feelings about themselves in the world. The book is organized into 5 parts: 1) feelings of tiredness, overwhelm, doubt, and fear; 2) feelings of hurt and loneliness; 3) feelings of lack of purpose; 4) feelings of distrust in God's presence; and 5) feelings of confusion. The book hopes to share with the reader that we all struggle and have challenges and that we are loved by God just where we are.

This book is well-organized with easy to read writing. At the end of each chapter there are reflection questions that help summarize the chapter and contemplate on the topics. Although there is not a ton of depth in the chapters, the author explains the topics very well despite the shortness of chapters. My one critique is that this is for those dealing with less complicated topics such as breakups, bad days, hard jobs, etc rather than grief, trauma, etc. For example, the section on "if it doesn't challenge you, it won't change you" will not connect with someone struggling with distrust in God due to tragedy but it may work well for someone having a bad day. I do wish there was a bit more nuance on some of the topics so it could be helpful for a wider audience. However I think the reflection questions are very helpful to actually process their emotions and in many cases enables to reader to develop an actionable plan for their circumstance.

Many thanks to the publisher Thomas Nelson--W Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC in return for an honest review.

Valentine surprises me with her ability to pen down words in such a way that I cannot stop reading. At first I was hit smack down in the introduction by how she’s done and fed up with perfect Christians. I get that. She’s transparent in her writing and is relatable. She’s a story teller that can cut right down to it with ex’s moles from scriptures and her own life experiences. I like her “Real Talk” questions at the end of each chapter. Through the “Real Talk” sections I can work through my own intents of heart and struggles. I have to say she dives right in and asks the real questions to help us move forward.

I didn’t think I’d like it but I do. The topics she covers are common struggles to all, and I found myself saying, “Yes! Me too!” .
Some might say that what Valentine suggests to do is basic. Maybe it’s True, but what I do find that she hits the mark when it comes to the real talk of that chapter. That real talk is that reflection time where the nitty gritty comes out. I think that is where the work of change is happening! When we face the truth of what’s inside us and Our thoughts that comes about from answering those questions, that is the beginnings of change. A good one.

I do find her writing refreshing and she doesn’t mess with putting extra fluff.. For a twenty something year old—she certainly has wisdom!

I Recommend

Thank you Netgalley for this ARC—I received this book for the purpose of writing an honest review. All opinions and thoughts are my own.