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Ever After: Life Lessons Learned in My Castle of Chaos
Most every woman dreams about having a family and a building a home. We grow up on a steady diet of fairy-tales and chick flicks that drive our dreams... and leave us with a sugarcoated version of reality. We want it all: the prince, the kiss, the proposal, the ring, the castle, and eventually, the kids in smocked rompers playing cheerfully on the perfectly manicured lawn. Our hopes and dreams are pinned on the world’s version of happily-ever-after.
The problem is, the fairy-tales and chick flicks end where real life begins. We never see that follow-up scene where the prince and princess argue at 3 a.m. over who will get up with the colicky newborn. Or the princess reluctantly returns to work to help pay the bills and feels the stress of juggling work and family. And you certainly won’t see that part where the princess moves her last child into the dorm and realizes the bulk of her identity has been based on being a mother.
The truth is, marriage and motherhood are hard. Few of us are prepared to handle the balancing act of being a good wife and a good mother, without one or the other getting the short end of the stick. No matter how much we give or how hard we try, we never quite feel like it’s enough. And heaven help us, we always imagine every one else is doing a much better job.
In Ever After, best-selling author Vicki Courtney addresses the realities of marriage and motherhood, the difficulties and the blessings. It offers women a behind the scenes glimpse of what a fairy-tale really looks like on the average day for the average wife and mom. Poignant, funny, and even cathartic, Vicki shares mistakes made, lessons learned, and memories to keep. Most of all, she reflects the hope and promise that God meets us in the middle wherever we are in the journey.
The problem is, the fairy-tales and chick flicks end where real life begins. We never see that follow-up scene where the prince and princess argue at 3 a.m. over who will get up with the colicky newborn. Or the princess reluctantly returns to work to help pay the bills and feels the stress of juggling work and family. And you certainly won’t see that part where the princess moves her last child into the dorm and realizes the bulk of her identity has been based on being a mother.
The truth is, marriage and motherhood are hard. Few of us are prepared to handle the balancing act of being a good wife and a good mother, without one or the other getting the short end of the stick. No matter how much we give or how hard we try, we never quite feel like it’s enough. And heaven help us, we always imagine every one else is doing a much better job.
In Ever After, best-selling author Vicki Courtney addresses the realities of marriage and motherhood, the difficulties and the blessings. It offers women a behind the scenes glimpse of what a fairy-tale really looks like on the average day for the average wife and mom. Poignant, funny, and even cathartic, Vicki shares mistakes made, lessons learned, and memories to keep. Most of all, she reflects the hope and promise that God meets us in the middle wherever we are in the journey.
240 pages, Paperback
First published June 1, 2013
21 people are currently reading
728 people want to read
About the author
Vicki Courtney
43 books52 followersVicki Courtney is the best-selling author of numerous books for women, tweens, and teen girls including, Motherhood Is Not Your Highest Calling, Rest Assured, Move On, 5 Conversations You Must Have With Your Daughter, 5 Conversations You Must Have With Your Son, and Between Us. She is the recipient of a Mom's Choice award and two ECPA Christian Book Awards. She and her husband, Keith reside in the Texas hill country and are the proud parents of three grown children and grandparents to ten grandchildren.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
July 16, 2013
This book should be given to every bride with instructions to read it the first time she senses that her prince may still have a bit of frog in him or when she realizes that tiaras tend to fall off when you're scrubbing toilets! In her signature blend of humor and (at times) gut-wrenching authenticity, Vicki Courtney takes a frank look at the mayhem and mishaps of marriage and family after those glossy wedding bands have lost a bit of their sparkle and the honeymoon is a distant memory. Anecdotes from her own marriage and child-rearing days pepper the book, providing laugh-out-loud moments and, more importantly, encouragement that God's grace is sufficient for our daily needs. Harried young moms may need to keep this book in the bathroom to read in snatches but this is a must-read for anyone longing to keep her eyes on the big picture and let go of some of the pressure women put on ourselves and each other to maintain the perfect facade. I highly recommend this book. And keep your eyes open for the video Bible Study, which will be released this fall!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book from Vicki Courtney. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book from Vicki Courtney. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
July 29, 2013
I really wish I could just read aloud to you the introduction of this book. After hearing it I’m pretty confident you would say, “Give me that, I need to read it for myself”. If you've ever had the privilege of hearing Vicki speak and enjoyed it you are definitely going to delight in reading this book. Her witty yet wise voice comes through in her writing.
Each chapter addresses one of our fairy tale notions and walks us through what the reality is and should be. Don’t get me wrong this isn't a preachy you’re doing it all wrong type of book. How could it be with chapters that include: P-31 Flunkie, Great Sexpectations, Prince Charming Letdown and Fine Whines: Aged to Perfection.
This book is designed with every woman in mind. It is for the single woman who is looking for her prince charming. It is for the young married woman who can’t believe her prince is looking like a frog. It is for all those mommas out there just trying to keep the moat around the castle clean. And it is also for the woman who is looking back and ahead at the same time.
Since I couldn't read you the beginning let me at least leave you with a quote from the ending:
“No fairy tale can match the rescue mission that took place in God’s story. ‘Bud God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us’ (Rom. 5:8 ESV). Our Prince awaits. Ever after begins today.”
I received a copy of this book to facilitate my review.
Each chapter addresses one of our fairy tale notions and walks us through what the reality is and should be. Don’t get me wrong this isn't a preachy you’re doing it all wrong type of book. How could it be with chapters that include: P-31 Flunkie, Great Sexpectations, Prince Charming Letdown and Fine Whines: Aged to Perfection.
This book is designed with every woman in mind. It is for the single woman who is looking for her prince charming. It is for the young married woman who can’t believe her prince is looking like a frog. It is for all those mommas out there just trying to keep the moat around the castle clean. And it is also for the woman who is looking back and ahead at the same time.
Since I couldn't read you the beginning let me at least leave you with a quote from the ending:
“No fairy tale can match the rescue mission that took place in God’s story. ‘Bud God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us’ (Rom. 5:8 ESV). Our Prince awaits. Ever after begins today.”
I received a copy of this book to facilitate my review.
September 28, 2014
I buzzed through the first half of the book (marriage), but the parenting chapters left me a little flat, especially chapters 10-12. It seemed like the tone of the book changed as Mrs. Courtney began putting other women down in an effort to be funny/relatable.
July 17, 2013
"We all walk into marriage with a mental list of expectations. When those expectations go unmet, we feel let down. Whether your husband fails to fulfill a request on your honey-do list, forgets to pay the cable bill on time, doesn't spend enough time with the children, fails to read your mind that you could use a little help in the kitchen, or puts on an extra thirty pounds since your wedding day, it is only a matter of time before he lets you down in some form or fashion."
I love my fairy tales so much that just the title sucked me! I started reading it, and wouldn't have put it down if not for the demands of 3 little ones. I loved it so much that I've already bought one of Vicki's other books with plans to read it *very* soon!
I always feel the need to defend my fairy tales. Despite loving fairy tales and sweet romance stories, I don't leave them with unrealistic views of real life. Now, anyway. I KNOW that the day after that fairy tale "I Do", they probably argued over something stupid. I've been married 8 years and I have 3 little ones 4 and under. I know life is hard! My husband doesn't read fairy tales or romances. In fact, about the only thing he MIGHT read is something sports related. I *guarantee* you he gets just as annoyed at me as I sometimes get at him. It doesn't matter how "prepared" a couple walks into a marriage, there's still a rude awakening to be had.
That said, if you're a newlywed, this book is a magnificent wake-up call as to what marriage *will* be when the newness wears off. I might have been just a tad bit delusional when I first got married. Okay, so I admit I was highly delusional! I was given lots of great *realistic* views of marriage before I got married. I should have known better, but I was convinced my marriage would be almost perfect. Ha! I remember telling someone that when I found my "soul mate", he would never make me cry. Ha, again! Not possible, ladies!
In my first post, I recommended that single girls not read this book. I take that back! I actually *highly* recommend it, so you can get a realistic picture of married life to compare with the perfect men and lives that romance books and movies create in those that don't know better. ;) I was once that person, so don't take offense. I'd just recommend skipping the chapters on sex. But, each and every person has to decide for themselves how pure their mind can stay while reading, so it's for you to decide.
"Imagine the disappointment for women who, in the aftermath of their romance binge, encounter a husband who is laid out on the sofa, more mesmerized with the football game on the TV than their cute selves. Or a boyfriend who would rather focus on his fantasy football team than take them our for frozen yogurt and tell them how wonderful they are...again, for the third time this week."
Vicki has a casual, down-to-earth, *humorous* way of writing that I just fell in love with! I seriously LOVED her writing!
This is more of an inspirational memoir more than anything. It's amazing how far I've came with the world of memoirs. I remember at one point not too long ago that I couldn't even finish one of the things, I disliked them so bad. Now, give me a great humorous memoir written by someone as imperfect as me, and honest about it, and I can devour the thing!
One of my favorite parts is when she talks about her daughter revealing the night before that if she brings an example of mold, she would get extra credit. A trip to the fridge, and "Hello, extra credit!". There was even enough for her friends to get extra credit, too. I love it! It makes that bag of lettuce I found in my fridge a little easier to accept.
I took a great deal away from this book! So often, I read books that are awesome, but I forget it by the next day. I don't take away a great deal that I can easily put into practice. THIS book is different. It's filled with so much simple, PRACTICAL advice that it makes it so much easier to remember and attempt put into practice. For example, she discusses the difference between a dream house and a dream home. She talks about having to close a magazine when she starts daydreaming about changing things in her house that she's no longer content with after seeing beautiful new pictures. Now I *try* to do the same thing. When pinterest/magazines/book reviews starts making me not content with what I have, I try to step away. Honestly, finding contentment with my books are my biggest struggle!
"Do we put more time and energy into filling our home with things that will perish or memories that will last? Do we treat the Lord as a regular member of our household or an occasional visitor that is only welcome when invited? If walls could talk, would they tell stories of open Bibles and bedtime prayers or Bibles with dusty covers grabbed on the way out the door on an occasional Sunday morning? Would they talk about the laughter shared around the dinner table or meals eaten alone in front of a TV or computer? Would they say that the Lord's name was spoken often or uttered in vain? Would they share about raised voices and slammed doors or sinners who lose their temper, but are quick to apologize and ask for forgiveness."
This book has caused *change* around my home and for that I am grateful! It's small change and a work in progress, but change none the less! I'm *still* thinking about the things I've read in it. The great thing is that while the book is filled with Vicki's imperfections, which makes us all feel more normal, she also always keeps the focus on God. It's filled with practical advice on how to grow closer to the woman God intends us to be, be a better wife/mother, AND we get to laugh at Vicki's journey(which is also ours to an extent) to that goal.
A few more thoughts I enjoyed:
"We need to cut ourselves some slack when it comes to the pressure we feel to measure up to an impossible standard to do everything and do it perfectly."
"Don't think you are better than you really are. Be honest in your evaluation of yourselves, measuring yourselves by the faith God has given us. When we succumb to playing the pretender game and only allow others to see the cherry-picked Stepford moments(some even staged), we miss the opportunity to share life with others on a deeper, more meaningful level."
"Oh, we can gather enough highlights to put together a montage of happy moments and make our lives look like a fairy tale if we really want to fool our audience."
I think you can tell how much I enjoyed Ever After: Life Lessons Learned in My Castle of Chaos. Married ladies, I highly recommend it to you!
*Note to author: *Thank you* for including the picture of "Bubba"! I laughed so much, I had to show Jonathan, which gave him a good laugh, too. *I* now want a picture of "Bubba", so I can laugh every time I see it. :) (After receiving the final copy, I automatically flipped through hunting the picture!)
*I was provided a review copy through Shelton Interactive in exchange for my honest opinion.
I love my fairy tales so much that just the title sucked me! I started reading it, and wouldn't have put it down if not for the demands of 3 little ones. I loved it so much that I've already bought one of Vicki's other books with plans to read it *very* soon!
I always feel the need to defend my fairy tales. Despite loving fairy tales and sweet romance stories, I don't leave them with unrealistic views of real life. Now, anyway. I KNOW that the day after that fairy tale "I Do", they probably argued over something stupid. I've been married 8 years and I have 3 little ones 4 and under. I know life is hard! My husband doesn't read fairy tales or romances. In fact, about the only thing he MIGHT read is something sports related. I *guarantee* you he gets just as annoyed at me as I sometimes get at him. It doesn't matter how "prepared" a couple walks into a marriage, there's still a rude awakening to be had.
That said, if you're a newlywed, this book is a magnificent wake-up call as to what marriage *will* be when the newness wears off. I might have been just a tad bit delusional when I first got married. Okay, so I admit I was highly delusional! I was given lots of great *realistic* views of marriage before I got married. I should have known better, but I was convinced my marriage would be almost perfect. Ha! I remember telling someone that when I found my "soul mate", he would never make me cry. Ha, again! Not possible, ladies!
In my first post, I recommended that single girls not read this book. I take that back! I actually *highly* recommend it, so you can get a realistic picture of married life to compare with the perfect men and lives that romance books and movies create in those that don't know better. ;) I was once that person, so don't take offense. I'd just recommend skipping the chapters on sex. But, each and every person has to decide for themselves how pure their mind can stay while reading, so it's for you to decide.
"Imagine the disappointment for women who, in the aftermath of their romance binge, encounter a husband who is laid out on the sofa, more mesmerized with the football game on the TV than their cute selves. Or a boyfriend who would rather focus on his fantasy football team than take them our for frozen yogurt and tell them how wonderful they are...again, for the third time this week."
Vicki has a casual, down-to-earth, *humorous* way of writing that I just fell in love with! I seriously LOVED her writing!
This is more of an inspirational memoir more than anything. It's amazing how far I've came with the world of memoirs. I remember at one point not too long ago that I couldn't even finish one of the things, I disliked them so bad. Now, give me a great humorous memoir written by someone as imperfect as me, and honest about it, and I can devour the thing!
One of my favorite parts is when she talks about her daughter revealing the night before that if she brings an example of mold, she would get extra credit. A trip to the fridge, and "Hello, extra credit!". There was even enough for her friends to get extra credit, too. I love it! It makes that bag of lettuce I found in my fridge a little easier to accept.
I took a great deal away from this book! So often, I read books that are awesome, but I forget it by the next day. I don't take away a great deal that I can easily put into practice. THIS book is different. It's filled with so much simple, PRACTICAL advice that it makes it so much easier to remember and attempt put into practice. For example, she discusses the difference between a dream house and a dream home. She talks about having to close a magazine when she starts daydreaming about changing things in her house that she's no longer content with after seeing beautiful new pictures. Now I *try* to do the same thing. When pinterest/magazines/book reviews starts making me not content with what I have, I try to step away. Honestly, finding contentment with my books are my biggest struggle!
"Do we put more time and energy into filling our home with things that will perish or memories that will last? Do we treat the Lord as a regular member of our household or an occasional visitor that is only welcome when invited? If walls could talk, would they tell stories of open Bibles and bedtime prayers or Bibles with dusty covers grabbed on the way out the door on an occasional Sunday morning? Would they talk about the laughter shared around the dinner table or meals eaten alone in front of a TV or computer? Would they say that the Lord's name was spoken often or uttered in vain? Would they share about raised voices and slammed doors or sinners who lose their temper, but are quick to apologize and ask for forgiveness."
This book has caused *change* around my home and for that I am grateful! It's small change and a work in progress, but change none the less! I'm *still* thinking about the things I've read in it. The great thing is that while the book is filled with Vicki's imperfections, which makes us all feel more normal, she also always keeps the focus on God. It's filled with practical advice on how to grow closer to the woman God intends us to be, be a better wife/mother, AND we get to laugh at Vicki's journey(which is also ours to an extent) to that goal.
A few more thoughts I enjoyed:
"We need to cut ourselves some slack when it comes to the pressure we feel to measure up to an impossible standard to do everything and do it perfectly."
"Don't think you are better than you really are. Be honest in your evaluation of yourselves, measuring yourselves by the faith God has given us. When we succumb to playing the pretender game and only allow others to see the cherry-picked Stepford moments(some even staged), we miss the opportunity to share life with others on a deeper, more meaningful level."
"Oh, we can gather enough highlights to put together a montage of happy moments and make our lives look like a fairy tale if we really want to fool our audience."
I think you can tell how much I enjoyed Ever After: Life Lessons Learned in My Castle of Chaos. Married ladies, I highly recommend it to you!
*Note to author: *Thank you* for including the picture of "Bubba"! I laughed so much, I had to show Jonathan, which gave him a good laugh, too. *I* now want a picture of "Bubba", so I can laugh every time I see it. :) (After receiving the final copy, I automatically flipped through hunting the picture!)
*I was provided a review copy through Shelton Interactive in exchange for my honest opinion.
August 21, 2013
There is a reason that fairy tales begin with "Once upon a time..." Because it only happens once. upon. a. time. Long, long ago when ladies were served and princes, I mean men, were perfect and, well, charming. Now, we live in a time where women are "supposed" to serve and men are not the charming creatures we read about in fairy tales.
The problem is that we continue to believe the prince charming myth right up until we discover the perfect man we married has faults and no longer thinks we are his lady in waiting. Then, there are the demands we place on ourselves as wives and mothers trying to live up to the lives we see on Facebook and Pinterest. What we see and read online lead us to believe in a modern-day fairy tale--that women can work 40 hours a week, work out for 2 hours a day, cook gourmet meals 7 days a week, take care of the kids and the housework and still maintain a scrapbook for three kids, sew their own clothes, grow their own food, etc. etc. etc.
The truth is that women can't do it all. We can't build a home and have a family on a steady diet of fairy tales, Facebook statuses or Pinterest ideas. In her book, "Ever After", Vicki Courtney shares her life lessons about marriage and motherhood (some quite humorous) and helps put them into perspective. There is only One Person who can meet us where we are and be the happily ever after we long for.
Courtney shares her mistakes and the lessons she learned and shows us what a real fairy tale looks like--the one where the husband and wife argue, the kids get sick and the house gets dirty. Wherever you are in your journey, Christ meets you there.
If you struggle with how you look or the aging process, you will find peace in the last few chapters where Courtney shares things to consider as we face body image and aging issues. She helps us realize that things aren't always what they appear to be online or in magazines. I highly recommend "Ever After" for women in all stages of life. This would make a perfect gift for a girl as she prepares to leave the nest. This is, after all, the best time to put all those fairy tales to rest.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Shelton Interactive, as part of its Book Review Blogger Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
The problem is that we continue to believe the prince charming myth right up until we discover the perfect man we married has faults and no longer thinks we are his lady in waiting. Then, there are the demands we place on ourselves as wives and mothers trying to live up to the lives we see on Facebook and Pinterest. What we see and read online lead us to believe in a modern-day fairy tale--that women can work 40 hours a week, work out for 2 hours a day, cook gourmet meals 7 days a week, take care of the kids and the housework and still maintain a scrapbook for three kids, sew their own clothes, grow their own food, etc. etc. etc.
The truth is that women can't do it all. We can't build a home and have a family on a steady diet of fairy tales, Facebook statuses or Pinterest ideas. In her book, "Ever After", Vicki Courtney shares her life lessons about marriage and motherhood (some quite humorous) and helps put them into perspective. There is only One Person who can meet us where we are and be the happily ever after we long for.
Courtney shares her mistakes and the lessons she learned and shows us what a real fairy tale looks like--the one where the husband and wife argue, the kids get sick and the house gets dirty. Wherever you are in your journey, Christ meets you there.
If you struggle with how you look or the aging process, you will find peace in the last few chapters where Courtney shares things to consider as we face body image and aging issues. She helps us realize that things aren't always what they appear to be online or in magazines. I highly recommend "Ever After" for women in all stages of life. This would make a perfect gift for a girl as she prepares to leave the nest. This is, after all, the best time to put all those fairy tales to rest.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Shelton Interactive, as part of its Book Review Blogger Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
July 31, 2013
Ever After
By Vicki Courtney
Life lessons learned in my castle of chaos...
Ever After takes a look at marriage and the ever after after you say I do. We live under a delusion that we will have a happily ever after just like in a Disney fairy tale, but how many Disney tales show the ever after after The End. One assumes it's happily. Or is it?
Our modern culture has idolized the wedding at the expense of the marriage. What comes after the I do's is more important than the perfect dress or the rehearsal dinner. If your marriage isn't built on a foundation of friendship you will have problems.
Chapter 2 opens with a quote from C.S. Lewis that everyone should take to heart. "A woman's heart should be so close to God that a man should have to chase Him to find her." Don't you just love that sentiment. Marriage should be not a union of two but of three.
But Ever After isn't all serious though there are some serious topics discussed throughout. There are some humorous moments as the author takes you through her trials-and-errors as both and wife and mother. I think a picture my mom had when my sisters and I were little would be a good motto that would fit in with this book. Cleaning and scrubbing can wait til tomorrow, for children grow-up we've learned to our sorrow.
This sentiment is apt for both marriage and parenting. Don't be everything to everybody except your family. Make an investment at the beginning of your Ever After so that you will have an Ever After in your future. Take and make time for you and your spouse, don't put it off until later. Your marriage should not revolve around your children. It is not "of the children, by the children, and for the children." The foundation is the marriage and if it is not maintained and shored up it will crumble. This isn't to say that you should ignore your children, but don't focus on your children to the exclusion of your marriage. Your identity should be more than the parent of so-and-so, you are also a husband or wife.
I loved reading about Vicki's cooking adventures and last minute school projects with her children. And her thoughts on Proverbs 31 are enlightening no matter how many times you've delved into the virtuous woman.
Ever After is the tool you need to add happily to your ever after.
I was provided a copy of this book by Shelton Interactive in exchange for my honest review.
By Vicki Courtney
Life lessons learned in my castle of chaos...
Ever After takes a look at marriage and the ever after after you say I do. We live under a delusion that we will have a happily ever after just like in a Disney fairy tale, but how many Disney tales show the ever after after The End. One assumes it's happily. Or is it?
Our modern culture has idolized the wedding at the expense of the marriage. What comes after the I do's is more important than the perfect dress or the rehearsal dinner. If your marriage isn't built on a foundation of friendship you will have problems.
Chapter 2 opens with a quote from C.S. Lewis that everyone should take to heart. "A woman's heart should be so close to God that a man should have to chase Him to find her." Don't you just love that sentiment. Marriage should be not a union of two but of three.
But Ever After isn't all serious though there are some serious topics discussed throughout. There are some humorous moments as the author takes you through her trials-and-errors as both and wife and mother. I think a picture my mom had when my sisters and I were little would be a good motto that would fit in with this book. Cleaning and scrubbing can wait til tomorrow, for children grow-up we've learned to our sorrow.
This sentiment is apt for both marriage and parenting. Don't be everything to everybody except your family. Make an investment at the beginning of your Ever After so that you will have an Ever After in your future. Take and make time for you and your spouse, don't put it off until later. Your marriage should not revolve around your children. It is not "of the children, by the children, and for the children." The foundation is the marriage and if it is not maintained and shored up it will crumble. This isn't to say that you should ignore your children, but don't focus on your children to the exclusion of your marriage. Your identity should be more than the parent of so-and-so, you are also a husband or wife.
I loved reading about Vicki's cooking adventures and last minute school projects with her children. And her thoughts on Proverbs 31 are enlightening no matter how many times you've delved into the virtuous woman.
Ever After is the tool you need to add happily to your ever after.
I was provided a copy of this book by Shelton Interactive in exchange for my honest review.
August 22, 2013
Little girls often grow up with their heads filled with the stuff of fairy tales: You grow up, Prince Charming finds you (even if it means slaying dragons, defeating witches, and dealing with evil stepmothers, etc.), you marry, and ride off in your shimmering carriage to live happily ever after in your beautiful castle. Right?
Reality Check!! Tiny apts.; sky high bills; work demands; the pumpkin that turned into a carriage is actually a 'lemon'; the fairy godmother loses your new address; the sweet babies you envisioned cry, make messes...and turn into teenagers; Prince Charming doesn't always make your dreams come true; and , truth be told, your "princess persona" and crown may slip a notch or 2...sometimes. Vicki Courtney calls this “Fairy Tale Letdown.”
Ever After: Life Lessons Learned in My Castle of Chaos should be required reading for those who need a dose of reality, but I also absolutely recommend it for those who long realized that life isn't a fairy tale...but is so much more exciting. This is written from the perspective of a married woman, but is also a great book for divorced or never-married women; there are topics that appeal to all women. Courtney's sense of humor shines through the pages as she tells stories from her own life about mistakes made, lessons learned, tears, laughter, and the reminder that God's grace is sufficient for our happy ending and the Prince who awaits us.
I rarely give out a 5, but I would give this a strong 4.5 stars.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Shelton Interactive, as part of its Book Review Blogger Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
Reality Check!! Tiny apts.; sky high bills; work demands; the pumpkin that turned into a carriage is actually a 'lemon'; the fairy godmother loses your new address; the sweet babies you envisioned cry, make messes...and turn into teenagers; Prince Charming doesn't always make your dreams come true; and , truth be told, your "princess persona" and crown may slip a notch or 2...sometimes. Vicki Courtney calls this “Fairy Tale Letdown.”
Ever After: Life Lessons Learned in My Castle of Chaos should be required reading for those who need a dose of reality, but I also absolutely recommend it for those who long realized that life isn't a fairy tale...but is so much more exciting. This is written from the perspective of a married woman, but is also a great book for divorced or never-married women; there are topics that appeal to all women. Courtney's sense of humor shines through the pages as she tells stories from her own life about mistakes made, lessons learned, tears, laughter, and the reminder that God's grace is sufficient for our happy ending and the Prince who awaits us.
I rarely give out a 5, but I would give this a strong 4.5 stars.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Shelton Interactive, as part of its Book Review Blogger Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
October 31, 2013
Review on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/review/RU8IPNER...
Review on my blog (to be posted 11/2): http://christianbookshelfreviews.blog...
Ever After was a really good nonfiction read. I liked how honest Vicki was about life and marriage. I'm not married, so most of the things in this book aren't applicable to my life right now (and there were a couple chapters I had a hard time reading because of that), but there were still some things that I could relate to and/or apply to my life (for instance, the chapter on beauty, "I Love Me; I Love Me Not" was great and informative).
Overall, Ever After is a book that I think married women will find refreshing and honest. There were some funny things in the book, in addition to some serious topics. It definitely shows how many challenges and difficulties come with married life and parenthood and that true joy and peace can only be found in Jesus Christ. I recommend Ever After.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
Review on my blog (to be posted 11/2): http://christianbookshelfreviews.blog...
Ever After was a really good nonfiction read. I liked how honest Vicki was about life and marriage. I'm not married, so most of the things in this book aren't applicable to my life right now (and there were a couple chapters I had a hard time reading because of that), but there were still some things that I could relate to and/or apply to my life (for instance, the chapter on beauty, "I Love Me; I Love Me Not" was great and informative).
Overall, Ever After is a book that I think married women will find refreshing and honest. There were some funny things in the book, in addition to some serious topics. It definitely shows how many challenges and difficulties come with married life and parenthood and that true joy and peace can only be found in Jesus Christ. I recommend Ever After.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
August 6, 2013
Ever After ended up being one of the most enjoyable books I've read lately (and I've read a lot of enjoyable ones lately). Courtney has a great writing style and an absolutely fantastic sense humor. All throughout her book she makes amusing comments and puts in her own quirky sarcasm to the issue she's addressing--always clarifying that she's joking, of course.
In this book, Courtney addresses women's expectations to their "happily ever after fairy tale"--the unrealistic expectations that let us down because we have grown up in a culture that feeds fairy tale lies to us. Quite a few of these were expectations were ones that I personally hadn't even consciously thought of, but realized were true of most women. (Do note that I am an unmarried woman, so what do I know anyway?) Despite the fact that I am unmarried, I still feel that I gained a lot through this book that is aimed more at married women. Though the whole book I still found things that were applicable to me, and tucked other truths into the back of my mind for future reference.
Overall, I thought this was an excellent book. I would definitely recommend Ever After to married women, engaged women, and even single women who are still waiting for their "fairy tale" to come true. I received a free copy of this book from a publicity agent (Shelton Interactive) for this review. These opinions are my own; I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated for this review.
In this book, Courtney addresses women's expectations to their "happily ever after fairy tale"--the unrealistic expectations that let us down because we have grown up in a culture that feeds fairy tale lies to us. Quite a few of these were expectations were ones that I personally hadn't even consciously thought of, but realized were true of most women. (Do note that I am an unmarried woman, so what do I know anyway?) Despite the fact that I am unmarried, I still feel that I gained a lot through this book that is aimed more at married women. Though the whole book I still found things that were applicable to me, and tucked other truths into the back of my mind for future reference.
Overall, I thought this was an excellent book. I would definitely recommend Ever After to married women, engaged women, and even single women who are still waiting for their "fairy tale" to come true. I received a free copy of this book from a publicity agent (Shelton Interactive) for this review. These opinions are my own; I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated for this review.
August 23, 2013
As I rummaged through the stacks of books at B&N I stumbled across this book. I studied over it a bit before placing it right back on the shelf to continue my shopping, but I couldn't stop thinking about it. This trip was my birthday present so I had no price restrictions on my choices. So I returned and decided to give the book a whirl and MAN OH MAN was it a great decision. As a teenage that is on the verge of entering adulthood this book has become an asset to me. The advice and insight into what it is like to build a life centered around Christ is priceless. I also loved the personal touches of wit and humor Courtney included in the novel. One more thing that really stuck out to me was Courtney's acknowledgement of her own flaws. It made the book easier to digest and enjoy because it shows how everyone is human, even when they are the ones giving advice. I thank God for leading me to this book because what I have learned from it is truly indispensable and applicable to the rest of my life.
April 7, 2016
As little girls we are told that someday our handsome prince will come and take us away to a castle. And we will live happily ever after.
But real life isn't really like that. If we believe the lies that society and our story books tell us, we are in for a very rude awakening when we reach our little castle.
The author takes the reader through different scenarios and tells the story of her prince and her castle. She's funny, realistic, and authentic. I really enjoyed the insights into the author's life. The life lessons spoke to what every wife and mother goes through as she passes each stage of life. The thoughts were well put together and will reach every woman regardless of what place she happens to be residing at. While definitely a book that I will be recommending to young wives and wives to be, it also hit home for this "old" married woman.
I received this book free of charge from Shelton Interactive in exchange for my honest review.
But real life isn't really like that. If we believe the lies that society and our story books tell us, we are in for a very rude awakening when we reach our little castle.
The author takes the reader through different scenarios and tells the story of her prince and her castle. She's funny, realistic, and authentic. I really enjoyed the insights into the author's life. The life lessons spoke to what every wife and mother goes through as she passes each stage of life. The thoughts were well put together and will reach every woman regardless of what place she happens to be residing at. While definitely a book that I will be recommending to young wives and wives to be, it also hit home for this "old" married woman.
I received this book free of charge from Shelton Interactive in exchange for my honest review.
July 29, 2018
I almost didn't survive past the introduction and first chapter, but because I may or may not be one of the most stubborn readers out there - someone who insists on finishing nearly every book I've ever started - I continued, and I'm so thankful I did.
Courtney's writing was refreshingly honest and quite comical! My favorite chapters were the ones in the beginning relating to married life. I also enjoyed her chapters on parenting, but the marriage-related ones were where the honesty and stories had me actually giggling along and nodding as I read.
"If I've learned anything at all about the comparison game, it's that you'll walk away a loser every time because you will always compare another man's good qualities with your husband's faults. It's not a fair comparison."
Courtney's writing was refreshingly honest and quite comical! My favorite chapters were the ones in the beginning relating to married life. I also enjoyed her chapters on parenting, but the marriage-related ones were where the honesty and stories had me actually giggling along and nodding as I read.
"If I've learned anything at all about the comparison game, it's that you'll walk away a loser every time because you will always compare another man's good qualities with your husband's faults. It's not a fair comparison."
February 8, 2014
Parts of this book resonated with me,other parts seemed to be filler to well, fill up the book. The author also needs to get a better proofreader as there are tons of typos and misspelled words in the book which made me think a little less of it. Nothing inherently wrong with the book and it's always good to know that there are others who have experienced life in the same way you have but wouldn't recommend it as a run out and get it book.
March 9, 2016
Very basic, simplistic book on learning to be content where you are in life. The book touches on marriage, raising children, the empty nest syndrome, and other areas in life that when compared to others, can seem lackluster. I liked where the author compares a "kid-centric" home to a "God-centric" home and I feel I can benefit from the points the author made. There was nothing groundbreaking in this book, but it would be a good Christian book to give to a newlywed woman!
March 21, 2017
I highly recommend this book for any newlywed, young mother or struggling mother. I often found myself thinking....wow, I wish I had been given that advice when my boys were young. Even as the grandmother of three, I enjoyed this wonderful book and can still apply her advice to my own life. Vicki Courtney has wonderful way of seeing humor in difficult situations. She opens up her life about raising her family. The ups and downs. The good, the bad and the ugly. It is truly inspirational!
June 25, 2016
Some of these chapters were spot on and some missed the mark for me! I found the chapter about teachers and school projects humorous because I'm a second-grade teacher. I have to say that I make a HUGE effort to make school-related stuff as convenient and simple as possible so I couldn't believe some of the examples!
February 3, 2017
It was a practical book that gave real life views of Godly marriage, parenting and life. It tore down the myths of the proverbs 31 woman and gave a realistic view of marriage, family and life with a twist of humor.
Good read for a person who is married (or wants to get married one day), have children (or wants to have children one day) and who has a life!
Good read for a person who is married (or wants to get married one day), have children (or wants to have children one day) and who has a life!
October 25, 2013
There were parts of this book that I really liked and appreciated reading. There were other parts that I didn't love or didn't relate to. I'm glad I read it, it was a quick read, but not my favorite.
July 3, 2014
One of my favorite books. I love the honesty and humor of Vicki Courtney.
August 2, 2013
What a great reminder of what really matters in a woman's life. A definite must read for all wives and moms!
June 20, 2013
Love this book! It points to what it TRULY means to live Happily Ever After...by God's standards, not the world's. Lots of humor mixed with Godly truth to guide us in the right direction!
September 23, 2014
Every wife and mother should read this book!
February 14, 2015
Easy read. I took a few notes away from this book. Light hearted in the midst of training God is working on me.
June 5, 2014
A must read for wives & mothers! Love this book, and her voice as a writer is so relatable!
April 29, 2014
A beautiful read..........................
May 4, 2015
What a great read. I LOVE her sense of humor and her willingness to be vulnerable. This book touched my heart.
January 25, 2016
Love Vicki Courtney! A beautiful woman, inside and out. Would recommend this good book to any momma!
May 18, 2017
This book is helpful for future reference, but isn't oriented toward my current stage of life (young professional, single). I would recommend to newly married couples or those with children.
February 23, 2018
I very much enjoyed the first half of this book and then somehow it became somewhat boring and tedious to me. The latter part felt very disconnected from the beginning.
March 3, 2025
I feel a deep connection to this book, as if I had written it myself. I bought it in 2021 for just over $1 and left it on the shelf until now. As a long-time fan of fairy tales, this book made me realize how these stories have led us to expect so much from the people we love and from life in general. My major insight was understanding that everything involves inner work; our perspective is significantly shaped by our faith and how we perceive the events in our lives. Reading this book is like attending a discipleship group of mothers, it is straightforward and funny while also promoting self-reflection and deepening one's understanding of the Word of God.
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