Addicted to Counterfeit Love

by Vikki Johnson

Ordained elder and radio personality Vikki Johnson addresses the emotionally crippling behavior of being addicted to counterfeit love. Some people have become so conditioned to being in a pattern of unsatisfying and spiritually draining relationships that they can't recognize what a truly genuine and loving partnership should be. They become accepting of the lies, anguish and humiliation and train themselves to become numb to the emotional pain. When someone does come along who bestows upon them love, honor and respect, quite frequently they sabotage the relationship simply because they cannot identify it. The negative cycle they are caught up in has them addicted to the counterfeit—the deceptive, fraudulent behavior that weakens their capacity to trust.

The words of wisdom that Vikki Johnson delivers will help readers identify destructive behavior and encourage them to demand the love that they are entitled to. God wants us to be in healthy, loving relationships, but our body, soul and spirit must be in harmony in order for these unions to succeed. The faith-based messages throughout the book will help readers get on the pathway to loving God and themselves the way God designed.

256 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 2007

Reviews

[Bliss · Rating 3 out of 5]

As I flipped through the book prior to reading, the first thing I noticed was the format. Each chapter is written as a woman's story (for example, "Brenda's Story") and subtitled with a catchy phrase that describes the issue(s) discussed in the chapter.

After each woman's story, there is the author's assessment of the story. Sometimes the author sounds a bit preachy but she IS a pastor. :-)

There is also a "Lessons Learned..." section, where the author tells the reader the lessons learned from the chapter. (I wish the author said "Lessons DISCUSSED..." I'm not one for thought-control. LOL)

The final part of each chapter consists of space for the reader to share her thoughts and write an affirmation, using the author's prompt as a starting point.

Overall, I think the author addresses the real issues that most women face, issues that can be obstacles to finding sustainable and mature romantic love.

However, it is my understanding that the author's viewpoint is that no woman will find true love unless she believes as the author does, in Jesus Christ and Christianity. The author makes extensive use of quotes from the Bible and her interpretation of same.

The book is classified as "inspirational", and while it is, I find that classification misleading. I believe the book would be better classified as "Christian Non-fiction", which gives the hoped-for reader a clearer idea of what is presented in the book.

Everyone does not share the same religious beliefs or values and for some, the topics the author discusses or infers may be taken as offensive. Every Woman may not see this book as being able to help HER.

My opinion is that even those who don't share the author's religious beliefs can still find a message of hope and help in this book, if the reader can see beyond the author's emphasis on her personal values and beliefs.

[laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

The first thing I noticed was not all counterfeits will apply to everyone. I say that because I feel like some people will quit reading it because a few scenarios don't apply to them.

I am glad only a few applied to me. The ones that did were on target, and I am glad for the help. I also like the way the book was organised, it made her ideas easy to follow.

I will re read this one several times.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a book I will definitely read again and pass on to my daughter when shes old enough. wish I had this before I started dating!