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Even If Not: Living, Loving, and Learning in the in Between by Kaitlyn E Bouchillon
If you find yourself in between one thing and another, changing from who you used to be into who you are becoming, how will you live in the messy, beautiful middle? And what if the middle pages hold storylines that wound and surprise? Is God with us on those pages, too?In Even If Not, Kaitlyn Bouchillon invites you to let go of trying to figure out the ending of your story and instead lean into the faithfulness of God. With honest and vulnerable storytelling from her own in betweens, Kaitlyn encourages you to say - no matter what page of the story you find yourself on - that although you believe God could come through how you're asking, you'll trust Him... even if not."Even If Not is a sweet, grace-filled read to help you fill in the blanks that fall after life's question marks." -- Kayla Aimee, author of Finding Hope in the Unexpected"We live in a world where the story doesn't always unfold the way we expected. In those moments we need to know we're going to be okay. We need to know we can trust the Author. We need to know whatever happens we are not done yet. That is what Kaitlyn Bouchillon beautifully, honestly and powerfully offers our hearts in this book. When I got to the final page it didn't feel like the end; it felt like a new chapter of hope in my life was ready to begin" -- Holley Gerth, Wall Street Journal bestselling author of You're Already Amazing"Even If Not is a tender, gracious read that will not only help you more fully receive the love and care of your tender, gracious Savior, it will help you settle into your own spectacular life story. With wisdom beyond her years, Kaitlyn's words moved Gospel truth from my head to my heart." -- Kristen Strong, author of Girl Meets Truths to Carry You through Life's Transitions
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Mass Market Paperback
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
January 29, 2017
Even If Not is easily the best book I've ever written. It's also, of course, the only book I've written. So there's that.
January 22, 2016
Kaitlyn is a transparent and honest writer. I find this book challenging me to do better in my faith walk. She shares her deepest struggles, temptations and her choice to keep pressing forward even though odds may be against her.
Life is a choice, circumstances we face demand that we make a choice and that's it "Even If Not" my choice is for the Lord!
Kaitlyn includes powerful scriptures in this book that makes you pause and pray as you read on.
God Bless friend. You have inspired more people than you ever imagined.
Life is a choice, circumstances we face demand that we make a choice and that's it "Even If Not" my choice is for the Lord!
Kaitlyn includes powerful scriptures in this book that makes you pause and pray as you read on.
God Bless friend. You have inspired more people than you ever imagined.
February 23, 2016
Have you ever found yourself in those waiting periods of life, when there are no tragedies or triumphs, just the everyday routine of work and chores? Perhaps you wonder when your breakthrough might happen? Or how you will react if it never occurs? Many have found themselves in similar situations, asking questions of God that don't have any easy answers.
Kaitlyn Bouchillon, in her new book, Even If Not: Living, Loving, and Learning in the in Between, acknowledges these questions and provides some perspective from her own life experiences. Through often poetic language and the use of scripture, Bouchillon challenges readers to praise God "even if not." Even if that breakthrough never comes, God is still good. And that challenge, that of living well and gratefully in the "in between" of life, can have a profound impact on the spiritual lives of believers.
While many books either focus on dealing with tragedies or give easy answers to our doubts, Bouchillon's book does not. She encourages and inspires but leaves the reader to ponder their own questions and circumstances. That is the true strength of the book as it does not instruct the reader, but rather points them to God, the ultimate Answer.
If you find yourself with many questions and no easy answers, then Even If Not may be the book for you. Kaitlyn Bouchillon's work will shine a little light into the often murky world of the here and now.
Disclaimer: I was provided with an advanced copy of the book for review.
Kaitlyn Bouchillon, in her new book, Even If Not: Living, Loving, and Learning in the in Between, acknowledges these questions and provides some perspective from her own life experiences. Through often poetic language and the use of scripture, Bouchillon challenges readers to praise God "even if not." Even if that breakthrough never comes, God is still good. And that challenge, that of living well and gratefully in the "in between" of life, can have a profound impact on the spiritual lives of believers.
While many books either focus on dealing with tragedies or give easy answers to our doubts, Bouchillon's book does not. She encourages and inspires but leaves the reader to ponder their own questions and circumstances. That is the true strength of the book as it does not instruct the reader, but rather points them to God, the ultimate Answer.
If you find yourself with many questions and no easy answers, then Even If Not may be the book for you. Kaitlyn Bouchillon's work will shine a little light into the often murky world of the here and now.
Disclaimer: I was provided with an advanced copy of the book for review.
June 11, 2017
I've only read certain chapters of Even If Not. As part of the launch team the deal was that we'd get certain chapters. Of the chapters I read I found that the over arching theme "will I worship God even if not" drawn from the story of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego in the book of Daniel in the Bible is consistent. Kaitlyn tells of her own life stories and how how she has learned to apply the practice of choosing to worship God "even if not."
I found her presentation to be interesting. Her challenge is certainly one that can reach a broad audience, but I didn't connect with her life. Kaitlyn is a tender hearted woman, but she is young. Her life has included some deep trials such as battling a brain tumor. That was not a chapter I was given to read, but as far as the trials presented it would have been the only one I likely would have connected with.
I'd say the main age range for this book would be 15-23. Basically high school and college.
I found her presentation to be interesting. Her challenge is certainly one that can reach a broad audience, but I didn't connect with her life. Kaitlyn is a tender hearted woman, but she is young. Her life has included some deep trials such as battling a brain tumor. That was not a chapter I was given to read, but as far as the trials presented it would have been the only one I likely would have connected with.
I'd say the main age range for this book would be 15-23. Basically high school and college.
January 22, 2016
"Even If Not" is a book about being committed to the Lord even when, or if, the unexpected happens. Even if things don't go our way or our issues aren't resolved, He is faithful. Kaitlyn takes the reader on a journey to trust God more even if the hard places.
January 28, 2016
This book spoke straight to my heart. I underlined passages over and over again that brought me comfort and hope. This book meets you right where you are in life. It is a book I will read over and over again to remind me there is always joy, even in the middle of struggles.
March 12, 2016
I've pre-ordered my paperback copy of this book because I so enjoyed the e-excerpts sent to me by the author! Can't wait to share here why I love the #EvenIfNotbook!
October 22, 2022
If you’re in the messy middle of life, this book is for you.
February 13, 2016
Kaitlyn Bouchillon has written one of the most real, thought-provoking books I have ever read. Being a 22 year old recent college grad as well, I can very much relate to that feeling of being in the "in between." This can be a very confusing place, but Kaitlyn offers to be the person to share her life experiences first in hopes that we can benefit from what she has learned through her walk with the Lord. Even if Not is rooted in the word of God, and the multitude of scripture sprinkled throughout the book will leave you feeling blessed and encouraged. Kaitlyn writes in such a personal way, you will feel as if you are talking to one of your closest friends. She will make you feel so comfortable that you will find yourself laughing and smiling at some parts and looking into those deep parts of your heart that you are too afraid to touch after reading other parts.
My favorite chapter that you MUST read is Chapter 3, broken & mended, because everyone will be able to relate to this part of her story. Kaitlyn tells about how broken friendships leads to a broken view of community, but in her post-brokenness she shows beauty, maturity, and strength that many her age would not have been able to. Instead of giving up, instead of turning on the Lord, instead of cursing what she lost, she was able to root herself in Him. She believed and prayed that God would heal and reconcile, and she deeply believed that He would always be enough. My favorite quote in the whole book is "He would have been good if nothing had changed. He would have been faithful if things had stayed the same. God would still be God whether He answered my prayers or not. Even if nothing changed about my situation, nothing about my view of God would change." She shows readers that even if your worst fear becomes a reality, God will always be able to lead you through it and He will always be enough. Her story does end in reconciliation, which points back to the powerfulness of God and how He can do the impossible. The whole chapter gives readers who have experienced that brokenness hope and encouragement that God can heal their hearts.
I could go on and on, break down the beautiful parts of every chapter, but I would just suggest you read it yourself. You won't regret it.
My favorite chapter that you MUST read is Chapter 3, broken & mended, because everyone will be able to relate to this part of her story. Kaitlyn tells about how broken friendships leads to a broken view of community, but in her post-brokenness she shows beauty, maturity, and strength that many her age would not have been able to. Instead of giving up, instead of turning on the Lord, instead of cursing what she lost, she was able to root herself in Him. She believed and prayed that God would heal and reconcile, and she deeply believed that He would always be enough. My favorite quote in the whole book is "He would have been good if nothing had changed. He would have been faithful if things had stayed the same. God would still be God whether He answered my prayers or not. Even if nothing changed about my situation, nothing about my view of God would change." She shows readers that even if your worst fear becomes a reality, God will always be able to lead you through it and He will always be enough. Her story does end in reconciliation, which points back to the powerfulness of God and how He can do the impossible. The whole chapter gives readers who have experienced that brokenness hope and encouragement that God can heal their hearts.
I could go on and on, break down the beautiful parts of every chapter, but I would just suggest you read it yourself. You won't regret it.
February 19, 2016
Even If Not, by Kaitlyn E. Bouchillon, is an incredible tale of how God uses our whole lives for His glory, even those seasons we never imagined, and perhaps never even wanted. Kaitlyn weaves together stories from her own life into a beautiful, encouraging, uplifting book that digs deep and plants hope.
Like Kaitlyn, I encountered my own unexpected season of life, right after college. Rather than chasing the American Dream, God chose a different path for me. One that was exciting and unexpected...and scary-hard. It left me second-guessing at grasping at straws at times, and I wish I had Even If Not in my hands at the time, a balm for my questioning soul.
Kaitlyn writes hope in every word in this book, affirming that our stories are not over yet. Do you hear that? No matter where you are, or what season you're in, your story is not over. And even more? You story matters, as Kaitlyn loves to say. Even if you aren't living the life you envision, God can turn your story into something amazing. Kaitlyn's writing brings home these points, and will leave you grasping onto hope, rather than grasping for straws.
If only I could pass this book onto all of you ladies who are wondering where your stories go next. I can't recommend Even If Not enough, because I think all of us need to be reminded that God has brought you to your season in life, and all for a reason, even if it's not what you dreamed it would be. In the messy and in the joyful, your story is your story, and Even If Not will remind you of that beautiful truth.
I absolutely love Kaitlyn's writing style: honest, real, and sweet. Reading Even If Not is like sitting down with a cup of coffee for a long chat with Kaitlyn. This book will bless you immensely, so get it now!
Like Kaitlyn, I encountered my own unexpected season of life, right after college. Rather than chasing the American Dream, God chose a different path for me. One that was exciting and unexpected...and scary-hard. It left me second-guessing at grasping at straws at times, and I wish I had Even If Not in my hands at the time, a balm for my questioning soul.
Kaitlyn writes hope in every word in this book, affirming that our stories are not over yet. Do you hear that? No matter where you are, or what season you're in, your story is not over. And even more? You story matters, as Kaitlyn loves to say. Even if you aren't living the life you envision, God can turn your story into something amazing. Kaitlyn's writing brings home these points, and will leave you grasping onto hope, rather than grasping for straws.
If only I could pass this book onto all of you ladies who are wondering where your stories go next. I can't recommend Even If Not enough, because I think all of us need to be reminded that God has brought you to your season in life, and all for a reason, even if it's not what you dreamed it would be. In the messy and in the joyful, your story is your story, and Even If Not will remind you of that beautiful truth.
I absolutely love Kaitlyn's writing style: honest, real, and sweet. Reading Even If Not is like sitting down with a cup of coffee for a long chat with Kaitlyn. This book will bless you immensely, so get it now!
April 8, 2018
I enjoy following Kaitlyn Bouchillon's blog and watching her lead launch teams for other authors. When her book went on sale, I grabbed up a copy, and I'm glad I did.
This talented writer and blogger faced a huge challenge when she was only a teenager. She was diagnosed with a brain tumor that required immediate surgery. Her faith rose to new levels after that challenge.
Kaitlyn also writes about the meaning of home, whether feeling comfortable in the streets of Haiti during mission trips or adjusting to life in Alabama, away from all her family. She uses the ampersand as a metaphor throughout the book, a symbol for learning to be content during times of transition.
She is a fine writer who gives practical wisdom. Here is a sampling of quotes I enjoyed in Even If Not:
"[Even if not] can be three of the hardest words to say. Maybe that's why I whisper them to myself and to my friend Jesus with every glimpse of an ampersand."
"God is going to come through but it might not look like what we're hoping for."
"I have found myself on both ends of the spectrum, in the dark and in the light, lonely and surrounded by community, broken and mended. But the truth is, most of life is lived somewhere in between. Most of us are in the ampersand, but just so you know--you'll find God there too."
"He is patiently waiting and quietly longing to be the safe place we run to in the dark, the quiet we enter into when the noise of the world is blaring in our ears, the balm to our scars and the healing for our hurts."
If you are struggling in the hard in-between, this book will inspire you to hang on with faith.
This talented writer and blogger faced a huge challenge when she was only a teenager. She was diagnosed with a brain tumor that required immediate surgery. Her faith rose to new levels after that challenge.
Kaitlyn also writes about the meaning of home, whether feeling comfortable in the streets of Haiti during mission trips or adjusting to life in Alabama, away from all her family. She uses the ampersand as a metaphor throughout the book, a symbol for learning to be content during times of transition.
She is a fine writer who gives practical wisdom. Here is a sampling of quotes I enjoyed in Even If Not:
"[Even if not] can be three of the hardest words to say. Maybe that's why I whisper them to myself and to my friend Jesus with every glimpse of an ampersand."
"God is going to come through but it might not look like what we're hoping for."
"I have found myself on both ends of the spectrum, in the dark and in the light, lonely and surrounded by community, broken and mended. But the truth is, most of life is lived somewhere in between. Most of us are in the ampersand, but just so you know--you'll find God there too."
"He is patiently waiting and quietly longing to be the safe place we run to in the dark, the quiet we enter into when the noise of the world is blaring in our ears, the balm to our scars and the healing for our hurts."
If you are struggling in the hard in-between, this book will inspire you to hang on with faith.
November 17, 2017
When I read "even if not" I wasn't sure what I was going to learn. I took it on a trip to read on the airplane. I so enjoyed the book that I read the entire thing on the airplane ride! Her reading is easy to understand, to the point and fluid for this simple girl to get. I enjoyed her words. I know that she is young, I took to her as my daughter is her age and the experience she had was heart wrenching. I enjoy Kaitlyn's style and her sense of humor and her wisdom for such a young thing! She is a delight.
November 16, 2017
Even If Not: Living, Loving, and Learning in the in Between
In Kaitlyn Bouchillon's debut book, she takes us to the place where we all need to go. What is YOUR STORY?
How will you write it?
Then will you be brave enough to tell it?
God gifts us with so many different gifts and talents we just have to dig deep and pull them out of our heart and let them flow.
We tell our story by living our lives the very best way we know. Even If Not, gives you the tools to use, that helps you write your story.
In times of trial, In times of true joy, in times of true saddness. it doesn't matter what the emotion. We can live our lives in a way that will be glorifying to Him. Our story has already been written, you just need to turn to him to get the script!
We don’t actually need to know the future, we just need to trust the One who authors it into being. #EvenIfNotBook
In Kaitlyn Bouchillon's debut book, she takes us to the place where we all need to go. What is YOUR STORY?
How will you write it?
Then will you be brave enough to tell it?
God gifts us with so many different gifts and talents we just have to dig deep and pull them out of our heart and let them flow.
We tell our story by living our lives the very best way we know. Even If Not, gives you the tools to use, that helps you write your story.
In times of trial, In times of true joy, in times of true saddness. it doesn't matter what the emotion. We can live our lives in a way that will be glorifying to Him. Our story has already been written, you just need to turn to him to get the script!
We don’t actually need to know the future, we just need to trust the One who authors it into being. #EvenIfNotBook
February 23, 2016
My favorite quote from Kaitlyn comes from the introduction of her book. “God will come through, I promise you that. But you and I both know it deep down in our souls, whether we're ready to admit it or not: God is going to come through but it might not look like what we're hoping for.”
THAT. That is how I felt from day one of my 10 month old son's diagnosis of a brain tumor. I attempted a whole blog post about how I felt during that time, and later, read the INTRODUCTION of Kaitlyn's book and she sums it up in two sentences! TWO! I love it!
Now, before you think that because you've not experienced anything as drastic as a brain tumor that this book isn't for you – WAIT! Because it is. I'm positive you'll find hope, comfort and encouragement in your own walk with God as you read her words. I've just read the few chapters that were provided, and cannot wait for the day the actual book arrives in the mail. *Warning to my family; you may not see me for a few hours after that moment!*
THAT. That is how I felt from day one of my 10 month old son's diagnosis of a brain tumor. I attempted a whole blog post about how I felt during that time, and later, read the INTRODUCTION of Kaitlyn's book and she sums it up in two sentences! TWO! I love it!
Now, before you think that because you've not experienced anything as drastic as a brain tumor that this book isn't for you – WAIT! Because it is. I'm positive you'll find hope, comfort and encouragement in your own walk with God as you read her words. I've just read the few chapters that were provided, and cannot wait for the day the actual book arrives in the mail. *Warning to my family; you may not see me for a few hours after that moment!*
January 29, 2017
So thankful for this book!! Kaitlyn so eloquently writes about what life looks like in the in-between stages of life, and that God is in those places, too. I've been at such a crazy crossroads of life lately, and her words were a balm to my wounds from the past year. It reminded me that even if life isn't what I thought or wanted it to be, God is still here and still working in this in-between phase of life. Even when it's hard to believe He's here, her words remind me that this ampersand life has him all over it. So grateful for this friend's words-- may they heal and empower you like they did me!
February 21, 2016
This will be one of those books that you will want to read ASAP. Kaitlyn has such a lyrical, poetic voice that reading through her book just feels cozy and pretty. She walks us through parts of her (young) life where she had to learn to trust God even if He didn't answer her prayers. We can trust God to have our best even when we don't know what that is. We can trust God even if He says no.
Beautiful, honest, and real Kaitlyn is an upcoming author to keep your eye on. This one is self pubbed but I doubt it will be long until a big publishing house snaps her up! Read 'Even If Not' and find yourself in the company of a new friend.
Beautiful, honest, and real Kaitlyn is an upcoming author to keep your eye on. This one is self pubbed but I doubt it will be long until a big publishing house snaps her up! Read 'Even If Not' and find yourself in the company of a new friend.
December 26, 2016
Even If Not is a book that meets you right where you are. Whatever season or whatever part of your story you find yourself in, you will see yourself in this book. Even If Not is a book that reminds us that our personal story is important and that we are loved by a God who is mighty. Kaitlyn Bouchillon reminds us that wherever we are in our story, wherever we are on the dash, we can trust the Author, because He writes a more beautiful story than we could ever imagine. Even If Not is a book that spills over in encouragement and has you screaming, "me too!" on almost every page. Open it up and find your place, you have one!
February 14, 2016
Even If Not is a beautiful book written by such a sweet friend of mine. Kaitlyn has such a love for the Lord and encourages everyone around her that each of their stories matters. Life in the "in between" can be confusing and frustrating, but Kaitlyn encourages her readers by sharing her own story to lean into God and his loving arms and trust that even if not, God is still so very good. I pray that so many people would find beauty in brokenness through her story and truly know for themselves how much God loves them.
February 16, 2016
This was a great book for me to read.
I tend to get caught up in the comparison trap, but this book had so many great reminders of just how much we each are loved. Whether we perceive our life impacting many or few or any number in between, Kaitlyn's reassurance that God cares for us right where we are is so well crafted. Wonderful examples and supporting testimony throughout the book reinforce that concept from beginning to end.
Highly recommended reading for anyone who is now, or ever has been, in the "in between" in their life.
I tend to get caught up in the comparison trap, but this book had so many great reminders of just how much we each are loved. Whether we perceive our life impacting many or few or any number in between, Kaitlyn's reassurance that God cares for us right where we are is so well crafted. Wonderful examples and supporting testimony throughout the book reinforce that concept from beginning to end.
Highly recommended reading for anyone who is now, or ever has been, in the "in between" in their life.
February 23, 2016
This book encourages me so much! We don't have the promise that everything is going to work out. In the middle of that unexpected event that changes your life we often feel so much pressure, guilt and shame to handle it better or not struggle. Even If Not is, to me, an encouragement to talk about what's happening in the middle of the unsettling "not ok" seasons of our life and let go of the pressure to be or do better. We need more books like this right now.
April 3, 2016
I've officially finished the book and y'all, I don't know that I have the words that will actually describe just how much this book spoke to exactly where I am. Kaitlyn is honest and open in her writing which what helps the book just sink into your heart. She uses scripture and her own life experiences to communicate the timeless truth that "Even If Not, I will still worship and love you, Lord."
February 18, 2016
Kaitlyn's story is beautifully written and told from the heart of a humbled soul. She shares life's hard places and how she persevered with God's unending grace and love. Even if we do not get the things we hope and pray for God is still good. Kaitlyn's story oozes hope and love. I highly recommend it!
February 19, 2016
Kaitlynn is such a sweet writer and has so much wisdom to share in her new book. I’ve been a fan of her words for a while now and her passion or our Lord is contagious. I often get stuck in my ‘in between’ times but now have found the encouragement I will turn to time and again with her Even If Not book.
March 8, 2024
I love how Kaitlyn shares the hard reality of life along with the beautiful truths of hope in Jesus. This “both and” juxtaposition in life is where I have found myself the past few years, and Kaitlyn’s book spoke directly to me in this season. Highly recommend for those who are struggling to reconcile hope and suffering.
February 17, 2016
I love stories, and I know a good one when I see it. Kaitlyn writes with honesty and ease. I pray hearts are softened to her words and those that read along with us will know their story matters too.
February 24, 2024
I have only a handful of words to say about this book. It was truly beautiful and met me right where I am. I am almost hesitant to recommend it because I feel as if Kaitlyn was writing this to me. So amazing! Go get your hands on a copy, and grow in the Lord!
February 18, 2016
Even If Not is a powerful book written by a brave and inspiring author, Kaitlyn Bouchillon! I found this novel to be a great reminder that things happen for a reason and to never give up hope. I recommend this novel to anyone that would like a positive and hopeful read!
February 4, 2016
Awesome book ! Encouraging stories of how God can work in our lives in the middle of messy situations, reminding us that He is there and we are loved.
May 19, 2016
It's going to take me a long time to process and then be able to explain how powerful this book is. Until then, I can only say one thing: read it.
March 5, 2016
WONDERFUL book by Kaitlyn Bouchillon!! We all have as-yet unfulfilled desires and this book is all about loving Jesus "Even if Not"...
Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews