When I was contacted about reviewing this book, I was so excited! Not only because it was the first time outside of my involvement in book launch teams that I was asked to review a book, but because the book sounded awesome from the first time its contents were described to me. I was surprised by how fresh this book’s perspective is, as it challenges the cultural norms in regards to sex and the truths that stand against them. I have read a lot of books and resources on this topic, but this one is unique. I think this has to do with Jennifer’s sincerity, honesty, and the heart she evidently has for girls searching for their identity. I hope that teen girls and women who read this book are encouraged to see sex from a new perspective, and that they are willing to take a stand against the myths and lies that our culture tries to sell us. ~ Bethel

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​The versions of sex and sexual that our culture tries to sell us are fake. They have become so deeply embedded into the fabric of our society today, it’s hard to see they are there if you’re not looking for them. They claim to be able to fulfill us, give us value, and give us a happily ever after, but instead they leave us empty, unfulfilled, and questioning our value. Many women are caught in vicious cycles of brokenness and shame as a result of buying into these versions of sexuality. They often return to the same source of their brokenness again and again, hoping to find fulfillment, but leaving even more broken and empty than before. It makes us ask the question: how can we identify the lies that our culture tell us about sex, and find the truth to stand up against them?

​In the latest book by former model and author Jennifer Strickland, she identifies 21 myths about sex and female sexuality, just as the title would imply. But she doesn’t just break down and debunk these dangerous deceptions, but she also presents the biblical truth to counteract them. Although they have been many book written about this topic from a Christian perspective, this one stand out from the rest. She explains that her premise is to enter these discussions as if she and the reader were talking over coffee at Starbucks, having an honest heart-to-heart between girls. She doesn’t shy away from the difficult parts of sexuality and its consequences, but instead tells you the honest truth, and that’s something so many women, especially teen girls, need to hear. She covers a wide range of topics, such as dealing with guilt over one’s sexual past, abortion, adoption, the spiritual and emotional nature of sexuality, STDs, responding to the LGBT community, singleness, the false expectations of finding and marrying “Prince Charming,” and many more. Jennifer explains that this is the book she needed as teenager, and I believe that many other teen girls need this book as well, especially if they are trying to discern God’s truth over the lies that our culture continues to throw at them.  

​I would recommend 21 Myths to young women about 15 and older, and also for women desiring to counsel teen girls through any of issues this book addresses. It can be for those that already have a sexual past, or those that don’t but are seeking wisdom on these topics. It can even benefit someone young in their marriage, if they are trying to sort out their understanding of these dangerous deceptions. This book is now available through most many book retailers, so get your copy today!

Does this book sound like something you would want to read? Well, I have good news! I have been permission to give away one copy of the book, straight from the publisher! It makes me so excited to give one you guys the opportunity to read this awesome book for free! Since this is my first time hosting a giveaway, I am trying the Rafflecopter widget to see how well it works. It will give you guys multiple ways to enter your name. Then it will chose to winner at random, and I will contact you about getting your address. August 12th will be the last day you can enter. I will work on clarifying details as we go, so if you have any questions, please let me know. Thanks! 

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​Bob Goff’s book, Love Does, is no ordinary book, especially what many would expect of a “Christian book.” Some might consider it his autobiography, because it is full of stories from his life. From these stories, it’s easy to tell that this man has lived no ordinary life. He doesn’t respond to many of the difficulties of life in the same way that most people would. He found joy and resolve in many impossible situations and he never gave up on something that mattered to him. He came to learn many lessons through his own adventures as well as the adventures of other people in his life. Although the stories within each chapter are separate from each other, there is definitely a cohesiveness to the overarching themes of the book. Through it all, you come to the conclusion of the books title: Love Does. The kind of love that Jesus spoke of is one that leads to action, and one that gives us the ability to live our lives in the joy of His Spirit. Goff doesn’t give specific Scripture references and just explain what the Bible says. Instead on just having a Bible study, he encourages a “Bible doing,” learning what the Bible says, figuring out how it applies to your life, and then just doing it without hesitation. The examples he gives of how it has panned out in his own life are inspiring and challenging, but are also amusing and fun. His sincerity and transparency comes through on every page, drawing into the secretly incredibly life that comes with turning love into action. I would summarize the book the way Bob did when he autographed my book: Love God, do stuff. 

​You will definitely be drawn into this charming book when you take the time to read it and take it to heart. The message in this book is something that every person that wants to live life to the fullest needs to hear. I would recommend it to anyone – young or old, teen or adult, Christian or atheist. This book is available pretty much everywhere, so get your copy today!