Trust God, Love People: Stories of My Openhanded Faith

by Jenny Marrs

In this inspirational memoir, the beloved co-host of HGTV’s Fixer to Fabulous When you look back at the stories of your life, where do you see the markers of God’s faithfulness?

“Reading this warm, charming story feels like sitting down with a close friend and sharing stories of faith and family.”—Kimberly Schlapman, founding member of the Grammy Award–winning band Little Big Town

When Jenny Marrs looks at all the ways God has shown up in her life, she’s left with immense gratitude for a God who is always, ever faithful. Even as she has trusted that God was leading her, the big picture of her journey was often murky and unknown.

In Trust God, Love People, Jenny opens wide the doors to her life and her family’s home to share stories of how little steps of faith have added up to an unexpected and abundant life. We ride shotgun next to her as she moves to Bentonville, Arkansas, where she knows almost no one, and watch her slowly put down roots. The sweet stories of how she met Dave and of their early days of marriage and first homes together are here, as are the candid pain and hope of their time spent waiting to start a family before joyfully welcoming their twin boys. Jenny shares intimate glimpses into their years-long fight to adopt their daughter Sylvie from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, as well as behind-the-scenes details about how their work to restore old homes became Fixer to Fabulous.

Through it all, Jenny learns that God is trustworthy even in the moments when she feels fearful, worn out, or dejected. Trust God, Love People is a guiding principle in Jenny’s life, and serves as a reminder that steadfast trust in our faithful, loving God allows us to love others well. As we, like Jenny, learn to take our next step in faith and love the people around us, we can walk confidently into adventures beyond our wildest expectations.

Genres: Nonfiction, Memoir, Christian Living, Faith, Religion, Christian

160 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 7, 2025

Reviews

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. I watched Jenny and her husband on Rock the Block but never really watched her main show. I was still very intrigued to read her story. I’m so glad I did because I felt incredibly inspired by her deep trust and faith in God. Some might think that just because Jenny and her family are on television they must have a perfect and easy life. It’s been anything but. Jenny pours her heart and soul into the highest of highs and lowest of lows while giving God ALL the glory. Her words are beautifully written sharing inner thoughts, journal entries, and conversations with the people closest to her. Her love for God and people will stay with me for a long time. Highly recommend.

Thank you NetGalley and Convergent Books for an eARC of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was aware of Jenny Marrs from HGTV, but not a follower... After reading this book, I will certainly pay more attention. It's always great when someone can show you how God has moved in their life, to give you hope and faith that He will also move in yours. I loved how she would relate what was happening in her life to a particular verse. I find that to be a great jumping off point for prayer in my own life. I'll be gifting this book at Christmas.

[Rachel Wojnarowski · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm a limited TV watcher, but several years ago I started watching Fixer to Fabulous and couldn't stop. I binged from Season 1 to the present. What drew me in wasn't just the beautiful home transformations; it was the light, love, and joy radiating from Jenny and Dave Marrs. That light spread over every house they worked on, transforming them into homes. I remember thinking, "They must know Jesus."
When Jenny's book Trust God, Love People: Stories of My Openhanded Faith released, I did something authors usually don't do: I preordered it. I read the entire book in three evenings.
This isn't a typical faith memoir. Jenny writes with warmth and authenticity, going deeper into adoption journeys, business uncertainties, family struggles, and the daily choice to live with open hands before God. She doesn't just tell you about faith; she shows you what it looks like to trust God when you don't have all the answers.
Throughout the book, Jenny weaves together trusting God and loving people without making it sound easy or formulaic. She writes about boundaries, saying no when necessary, and protecting your family while still showing up for others. She addresses waiting on God's timeline when it doesn't match yours and staying faithful when trust feels impossible.
If you've struggled with control or wanting to know the outcome before taking the next step, this book is for you. Jenny's stories are specific enough to be real and universal enough to resonate.
Trust God, Love People is the kind of book you'll underline, quote to friends, and return to when you need a reminder that openhanded faith isn't about having it all together.

[Laura (kroosreadsandreviews) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've always loved watching Dave and Jenny on HGTV which made me so eager to read this book. I could almost hear Jenny narrating this story with her down to earth stories. I was so excited to read more about how their faith interacts with their lives.

The story was delightful and encouraged me on my own faith walk. As our family has lived in the in-between of foster care for almost 4 years, the waiting for the adoption of Sylvie really touched my heart.

Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the arc. The opinions are my own.

[Jennifer S. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm so glad I read this and came away with a refreshing sigh of encouragement.
I first saw Dave and Jenny Marrs on the show "Rock the Block" before watching their show "Fixer to Fabulous" (which I kind of adore now). As I started following Jenny more, it quickly became clear that her faith in the Lord is genuine and runs deep.
I admire her willingness to share her testimony of God's faithfulness and of His nearness in trials. She shares candidly of when her faith was tested - through loss, the hurdles of adoption, etc - and when it was bolstered. It was encouraging to read from someone who, while the Marrs have a national platform, desires daily trust in and obedience to the Lord. That's really all that matters regardless of fame or platform.

[Andrea · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is basically a chronological series of short stories/testimonies throughout Jenny Marrs life. I found it very encouraging and uplifting - full of great reminders of the faithfulness of God in the Christians life. It really could almost be read as a devotional - one story a day to reflect on. She did such a good job pointing it all back to scripture.

I was vaguely familiar with Jenny but I’ve never seen any of her shows; that didn’t affect how I read this book at all. It’s not about Jenny, it’s just about God.

Thank you to NetGalley for the chance to read an advance copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

[Sharyn Berg · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you watch Fixer to Fabulous then you know Jenny and Dave Marrs and their family. This is a look into their private lives and how their family came to be and you’ll come away feeling that you know them even better. While not a Christian book by definition, Jenny shares things from her faith and you will come away with some hope and inspiration. It’s a short, quick, read and written in a conversational tone. Thank you to NetGalley for the advance read copy.

[Abby | Beloved Books & Things · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given access to an advance copy of this book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. And I can honestly say this was one of THE BEST books I’ve ever read (and I read a lot of books). I read it so fast! It was so well-written I felt like I was having a conversation with Jenny herself! She shares stories of her life: her journey to her family and how each child joined, her work, her home, her hobbies, and even her fear of flying and call to adventure. Through it all, she points to Jesus in really beautiful ways and weaves Scripture throughout. Even though I’ve already read this, I will for sure be purchasing copies for my “favorites” bookshelf and to give to friends! Thank you, Jenny, for composing such a beautiful story out of the beautiful story of your life. Keep going!!

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Trust God, Love People, Jenny Marrs (from HGTV’s Fixer to Fabulous) tells her story of how her trust in God got her through many hard circumstances in her life. From infertility, to a grueling adoption process, scary birth moments, lots of waiting and unknowns, and even saying yes when God put a television show opportunity in her and her husband’s life. I couldn’t put this one down and was so encouraged to hear of Jenny’s solid faith in Jesus.

Thank you to the publisher and to NetGalley for the ARC. All thoughts are my own.

[Stephanie Joiner · Rating 4 out of 5]

Trust God, Love People is an inspiring memoir that shares defining stories in Jenny Marrs’ journey of faith. I enjoyed learning more about the author and her family. Each story was tied to scripture, giving the reader a place to anchor their faith as well. The tone of this book is honest while also being humorous. I would recommend this book to anyone in need of hope or wanting to grow in faith. And if you’re a fan of the HGTV show Fixer to Fabulous, you’ll enjoy this behind the scenes look into the Marrs family.

Thank you to NetGalley and Convergent Books for allowing me to have an advanced reader copy of the book in exchange for my honest review!

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fixer to Fabulous is one of my favorite shows. Dave and Jenny are so real and relatable. I read these stories in less than a day. Jenny describes troubles and hurdles in their life and relates how her faith guided her through with verses and prayers. This should be on everyone’s TBR list.

[Jennie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am so glad I picked this book to review! Trust God, Love People – Stories of My Openhanded Faith by Jenny Marrs is a memoir where she shares stories of how God has worked in her life and family. If Jenny Marrs sounds familiar, it may be because you know her from her show Fixer to Fabulous, which is one of my favorite home remodel TV shows I enjoy watching.

I think many will find inspiration and encouragement from reading her book. I love how she shares the Bible, her prayers, parts of her journal, their hardships, and how God works through all things. Her mission in life is to share the light of Jesus in everything, and that is what this book is about.

She starts by sharing how she met her husband and their move to Bentonville – which includes a crazy chicken store. Also, she shares about the adoption of their daughter, infertility issues, difficult pregnancies, loss, their farm life, their tv show, nonprofit organization they started, but most importantly she weaves God in it all. You can see in the pages of the book how important her faith and prayer are in her life

A few of my highlights from the book:

I believe extraordinary, life-alternating events are most often disguised as ordinary moments.
Thankfully, God tells us not to despise small beginnings, for He rejoices to see the work begin (Zechariah 4:10).
I was reminded again and again that God is good. Fear and doubt and confusion are not from Him.
Even when the brokenness threatened to overwhelm, we could stand firm on His promises of redemption and restoration.
Obedience brings blessing and life.
I know how ruthless the enemy is, but I also know that every attack must first come through the hand of God. We are His. He goes before and behind and surrounding…
Thankfully, God can make up for all my humanness. Whenever I feel unfit for this job He has called me to, He fills the gap.

At the end of the book she shares how she journals, including prayer prompts, and how she starts every year of with looking back in gratitude, remembering God’s faithfulness in her life, and writing out prayers for the year ahead instead of resolutions. In addition, you will find a discussion guide, so this book will make a great book club read!

This book will release this fall, so be sure to add this to your your book list!


Many thanks to Netgalley for providing this book for review! Opinions are 100% my own! I did receive the product in exchange for this review and post.

[Emma · Rating 5 out of 5]

Trust God, Love People: Stories of My Openhanded Faith
by Jenny Marrs

In this inspirational memoir, the beloved co-host of HGTV’s Fixer to Fabulous asks: When you look back at the stories of your life, where do you see the markers of God’s faithfulness?

“Reading this warm, charming story feels like sitting down with a close friend and sharing stories of faith and family.”—Kimberly Schlapman, founding member of the Grammy Award–winning band Little Big Town

When Jenny Marrs looks at all the ways God has shown up in her life, she’s left with immense gratitude for a God who is always, ever faithful. Even as she has trusted that God was leading her, the big picture of her journey was often murky and unknown.

In Trust God, Love People, Jenny opens wide the doors to her life and her family’s home to share stories of how little steps of faith have added up to an unexpected and abundant life. We ride shotgun next to her as she moves to Bentonville, Arkansas, where she knows almost no one, and watch her slowly put down roots. The sweet stories of how she met Dave and of their early days of marriage and first homes together are here, as are the candid pain and hope of their time spent waiting to start a family before joyfully welcoming their twin boys. Jenny shares intimate glimpses into their years-long fight to adopt their daughter Sylvie from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, as well as behind-the-scenes details about how their work to restore old homes became Fixer to Fabulous.

Through it all, Jenny learns that God is trustworthy even in the moments when she feels fearful, worn out, or dejected. Trust God, Love People is a guiding principle in Jenny’s life, and serves as a reminder that steadfast trust in our faithful, loving God allows us to love others well. As we, like Jenny, learn to take our next step in faith and love the people around us, we can walk confidently into adventures beyond our wildest expectations.
Stories of how God has worked in her life and family.
How her faith guided her through with verses and prayers.
A good inspiring book.
I recommend this book.
Trust God, Love People: Stories of My Openhanded Faith
by Jenny Marrs is a 5 star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Jenny Marrs.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions shared here in this review are my own.

[Gretchen Garrison · Rating 5 out of 5]

"What I've found by turning over the stones that tell the story of my life is that in every situation, God has been gently ushering me into a place of steadfast trust. I have walked through dark valleys, clinging to His hand; I have spent long nights tossing and turning, fear threatening to overwhelm, and yet, He has been ever faithful. He has never forsaken me. All along, He has been teaching me that when I keep my eyes on Him and take what I may think of as even the smallest, most seemingly insignificant step of faith, He will bless my efforts. "

I am a big fan of Jenny's show, Fixer to Fabulous. I would think that this book would mean more if a person were at least familiar with their family. I came to appreciate more about their family and especially how God made their adoption possible. When Jenny took steps of faith, God changed her and helped her to make a big impact in her community and beyond.

I absolutely loved this book and will tell even more reasons why soon. This is a book that I read from start to finish in one evening. I could not put it down. So many encouraging stories of faith.

I did get to read a copy of this book through NetGalley. I wanted to read and review it. All opinions are my own.

[Stacy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve watched Fixer to Fabulous for years and even follow Jenny Marrs on Facebook. I’ve always been impressed with her gentle nature and love her design styles. I received a complimentary copy of this book! Thank you Net Galley and the publisher for this ARC. The opinions expressed here are my own.
When I saw the title of Jenny’s newest book I was intrigued. I honestly never bought or read her first book. It has always been obvious to me that she is a Christian and lives her life fully to honor God. This book is wonderful! Jenny writes beautifully in a way that is interesting while telling their story. A lot of pieces I knew of but the way she shares is encouraging to see and hear how God has been at work through every step. I’ve always wondered how they do it all!!? But she humbly makes it clear her fears even in walking out her faith. There have been tears and trials. But really that’s why she’s so lovable! She’s real! To hear her say that she gets tired, cranky and fearful at times really spoke to my heart that I’m not alone. I highly recommend this book as it was such an encouraging read. Thanks Jenny Marrs for shining your light in a dark world!!
Matthew 5:16

[Debbie Archer · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the first time I saw the show Fixer to Fabulous I was draw to the dynamic relationship that Dave and Jenny have with each other. I did a deep dive into finding out about them and when I found out their story, it only made me like them more. I knew there was something special about their relationship.

I love the way that Jenny is so authentic, she doesn't hold anything back on the show or in the books she's written. I loved reading this book and how she has always found strength to do hard things when it would be so much easier to just stay in her comfort zone. I cannot imagine what it would be like to have the responsibility like she has with so many projects and being pulled so many ways, many times not having time left for her family.

This book really opens the door to leading a life in faith and not giving up even though the odds seemed to be stacking up.

I continue to be inspired by Jenny and will continue to follow her journey. She truly is a light what can be a dark world. Thank you for sharing yourself and your family with the world. It's a better place because of it.

[Lucy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have a strong belief that books find their way into your hands when you need them and that’s exactly what happened with this one.
The journey this family has been on to build their family, to build their work and to trust in the journey with god is so beautiful. I very nearly cried into my hot chocolate at a cafe reading the story of running the half marathon on an injured foot.
I’ve given 4 stars, I would give 4.5 if I could, I really truly love the book, and the way it’s written, I love the bible passages and the hints at the spiritual practice of the family. It just looses a half point for it tailing off at the end, I feel like it could have been concluded a bit more strongly, by hinting at another project, or what they’re looking forward to, or even that their next season is all kids being in school. And I think this was hinted at. But it’s a tiny tiny feedback because i did absolutely love it, and I will be buying a physical copy when it’s published because there’s several parts that I want to reread and journal on.

Thank you so so much to NetGalley, and to Convergent for the ARC, I really truly loved it, and the work you do!

[Victoria (TheMennomilistReads) · Rating 4 out of 5]

From Fixer to Fabulous is a renovation TV show I have seen with my husband, and we also saw the Rock the Block that the Marrs couple were on. When I was offered to read this book by the publisher, I was glad to do so in order to learn more about Jenny Marrs and how she thinks.

I was really surprised because I didn't know this was a family filled with so much faith. This book barely even talks about the show (it is brought up at the very end only). This is mainly a book about motherhood and the longing Jenny had to become a mom. She talks about how she met Dave, the dreams they had together, and the life they shared. Jenny learns to have a deep trust in God to help her through hardships. The bulk of this book is about the adoption process for their third child who was adopted from the Congo. There was a lot of heart in it. She talks about what it was like to struggle through hard pregnancies and birthing each of her other children.

She also talks about life on the farm and how much she loves animals. Some of the stories from the farm are really sweet.

I liked this book. I am glad I was able to read it and learn more about the Marrs family.

[Victoria · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have enjoyed watching Jenny and Dave Marrs in their HGTV program Fixer to Fabulous for several years and I was pleased for the opportunity to be an early reader for this book. This was a very personal book that shared some of the most memorable experiences, both highs and lows, of Jenny and Dave since their dating years until the present. Jenny bares her heart as she discloses her most intimate thoughts and feelings through journal entries from years past. She has “wrestled with God” on behalf of her adopted daughter and other children from around the world who are in dire circumstances. I was encouraged by this book to live with faith that the God of the Bible is still active in our lives today. And I was exhorted by Jenny’s example to be diligent in prayer and to trust God in “the in-between” while waiting on Him to act. It is the kind of book that I will read again and again. Highly recommend! I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are strictly my own.

[Amy Plitt · Rating 5 out of 5]

God's Light at Work

Of all the books I've read--mostly fiction--it's books like this one that I cherish most. Real-life people doing God's work for His glory. I've been a Fixer to Fabulous fan since its beginning. I felt an immediate connection to Dave and Jenny, like they've been lifelong friends of mine. I now know it's that we're brothers and sisters in Christ. I've always admired how they talk about God on their show; they're truly a light in this bleak and broken world. Now that I know more about their story outside of their show, I am so inspired by their tireless work in their home, their community, and the world. God obviously has called them to do amazing things, and the only explanation for the success of their efforts is that God is working through them. Their obedience to His callings is how He reaches so many people. I can only hope and pray that I shine some of God's light in my own life, that people see Him when they think of me, and that my children will carry on His legacy with their own families.

[Ginger Hudock · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a Christian-based memoir from one of the stars of the HGTV show Fixer to Fabulous. I was not familiar with the show or with Jenny Marrs, but I enjoyed this book. The book highlights the struggles Marrs and her husband had, including infertility, miscarriage and international adoption. She is realistic about the difficulties that they had and how she "wrestled" with God during this. She also writes about the wonderful surprises in her life such as the TV show and her unexpected pregnancies. I especially enjoyed the chapter where she discusses leading her sheep to a new pen (yes, they have sheep!) and the comparison with how God had to lead her often.

I recommend this book for anyone who is a fan of their HGTV show, or any Christian woman who enjoys inspirational memoirs. I received a complementary copy of the book from the publisher via NetGalley.

[Alexis · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love Jenny and Dave Marrs and was excited to read this book, but it was a little disappointing! The individual stories themselves were good and she spoke very freely about her faith, but I wish she had also told us how she came to faith in the first place. It kind of just jumped into the middle of the life where we infer she has a pretty rich faith but we have no idea where that came from or how it developed. My other, larger complaint was that the book didn’t flow very well, and the title would be more appropriate if it had to do with remembering God’s faithfulness (as that was really what her book was about). Overall, it’s short enough that it’s worth the read, but don’t expect to be blown away.

Jenny Marrs - if we ever meet and you read this, I hope you’d still want to be my friend! I’d love to hear you tell these stories over dinner!

[Cassi · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a heartfelt and simple memoir tracing God’s faithfulness over the course of one’s life. Jenny Marrs and her husband Dave host the HGTV show Fixer to Fabulous, so if you like her, you’ll likely enjoy her book. Her writing is sincere and thoughtful. She has gone through many changes, heartaches, and uncertainties, and this book chronicles how she learned to trust God all along the way, especially when things didn’t make sense. The way she recalls her struggle with infertility, the scary circumstances of pregnancy and labor with her twin boys, and the arduous road to adopting their daughter from the Congo were quite moving. She demonstrates through her words that she knows Jesus personally and walks with Him closely. Her example of praying boldly and taking big steps of faith encouraged me.

[Jean Mader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading Trust God, Love People feels like sitting on the porch with a trusted friend, wrapped in a warm blanket of faith and encouragement. Jenny Marrs—known from HGTV but more deeply as a wife, mom, and follower of Jesus—shares her heart and life story with gentle honesty. From simple beginnings to global missions, through heartache and hope, her journey reflects God’s faithfulness in ordinary lives. With each page, she reminds us to pray boldly, love deeply, and trust God fully. A beautiful, inspiring read for anyone seeking purpose and peace in their walk with God.

I received and a digital review copy from Convergent Books. This is my honest review.

[Emily M · Rating 5 out of 5]

There’s something so beautiful about reading someone’s testimony, and this book feels like that. I felt like Jenny took us right along with her in moments of doubt and moments of celebration. She beautifully tells the stories of her life, all the while directing everything back to God. It was such a wonderful read, and every time I set it down, I couldn’t wait to jump back in. I’m inspired by Jenny’s faith and God’s faithfulness, and I may even take attempt to journal again!

Thank you, Convergent, for the ARC! This was just what I needed to read in this season and I can’t wait to buy a copy come October!

[Alex Perez · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC of Trust God, Love People by Jenny Marrs. I didn’t know Jenny from her show or social media—I was drawn in simply by the beautiful cover and the book blurb. I’m so glad I picked it up. I really enjoyed reading Jenny’s heartfelt stories about how her faith deepened during life’s challenges and how God remained her steady foundation. I especially appreciated the journaling and prayer prompt section at the end of the book—it was inspiring to see how she could reflect so clearly on past seasons because she had written them down. This book is a wonderful encouragement for anyone needing a reminder that God moves in mysterious, purposeful ways.

[Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading this book by Jenny Marrs. I’m familiar with Jenny from watching her thrive on HGTV. So when I learned she was a strong woman of faith, I just had to read her book. I loved her story of steadfast faith in the midst of turmoil and wait. She provided encouragement to people going through their own seasons of in-between and strife. I really loved her guided journaling prompts at the end of the book as a way to dive deeper into your own personal faith journey. This book was very well-written and is one I’ll recommend to friends!

I received an advanced readers copy of this book but all opinions expressed are my own.

[Summer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was like sitting down to coffee with a faithful friend. A friend who has seen you at your best and at your worst. The heartfelt emotion that Jenny Marrs brings out, will have you laughing and crying -possibly in the same chapter. I truly felt like I connected with her as some of the trials she experienced have been part of my testimony as well. Jenny writes on how turning to God through each trial and triumph enables us to love God and love others. And if you have the chance to listen to the audiobook, I highly recommend it as you get to hear, straight from Jenny, the story of her heart.

[Valerie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've followed Jenny since her blogging days, and I was really excited to read this book. Jenny shares her family's story alongside her faith in a way that feels like she's sitting next to you, having a conversation with you. She talks about her family's journey through adoption, loss, a call to help African orphanages, a home renovation show, farm life, and everything else in between. I enjoyed how she shared about her faith, even in her hardest times.

Thanks to Convergent and NetGalley for an eARC in exchange for my review.

[Pamela K. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Immediately intrigued by the Marrs family

When I started watching Dave & Jenny Marrs on TV, I was immediately intrigued, and not just by their craftsmanship and creativity. I could see a love for their clients shining as they planned ways to delight them. I was sure that love sprang from a love for Jesus. This memoir details the events that tested and grew their faith and love. It is a quick read, realistic but encouraging. You will appreciate Dave & Jenny even more after reading their story.