“If life doesn’t look like you thought it might… If you’re walking through a season of uncertainty, of waiting, of idling in ‘the meantime’, this book if for you.”  Mandy Hale, New York Times bestselling author, shares these words on the back cover of her sweet new volume entitled “Beautiful Uncertainty: Singleness, Surrender, and Stepping Out on Faith”. Published by Thomas Nelson in the first part of 2016, Mandy’s heartfelt words are certain to touch the hearts of many women who are experiencing uncertainty in their own lives. They certainly touched mine.

The appeal of “Beautiful Uncertainty” begins with a whimsical cover, and continues right on through each short but sincere chapter and accompanying prayer. Although the entire book flows with a common theme, most chapters read like a self-contained essay complete with a personal anecdote, sub-theme, Scripture, application, and prayer or journal exercise. While this is a wonderful asset for reading one chapter at a time, (perhaps once a day as a supplement to your daily devotional), it tends to feel a little disjointed when you try to read several chapters in one sitting. In addition, each chapter averages only about 4-7 small pages in length. This means there is simply no time to reach very much depth or complexity… On the other hand, it also allows for a broader range of compelling topics (with cute and catchy titles!) such as: “Coffee with Jesus”, “It’s Hard to Be a Pigeon in a Seagull World”, “Shake, Rattle, Roll, and Surrender Control”, and “I Told You I Was Strong and Independent – I Lied”!

Overall, Mandy Hale’s new book is one you really can’t help but enjoy. Her sincerity, her love for Jesus, and her openness tug you close like a warm hug from a friend. While you will not find an abundance of depth or profound wisdom, you may discover new, fresh inspiration for following God’s plan with trusting abandon. Mandy’s voice is one of someone who has been there (and who currently IS there). As she shares about the joys and heartaches of waiting, uncertainty, and singleness, you can trust that she truly means every word. And she reminds us, “When everything else in life seems uncertain, God’s presence is always a precious certainty, revealing the gifts in the not knowing, the joy in the in-between, and the meaning in the meantime.”

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.