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Brazen: The Courage to Find the You That's Been Hiding
There are so many moments in life when we choose to silence our intuition, abandon our own voice, and play small because we wonder, deep down: "Do I know who I really am? Is who I really am enough?" It's courageous work to learn to live from our essential identity--loved, worthy, whole. But what if God is calling us to shamelessly recover the woman he created us to be? What if God is urging us to be--for the first time in our lives--brazen?
The word "brazen" means "without shame." Leeana Tankersley wants women to be just that--to unapologetically move from shame- and fear-based living toward lives that are based on love and belonging. With moving personal stories and spot-on observations of the longings we all experience--to know we are loved, to feel comfortable in our own skin, to be heard--Tankersley calls women to honor that voice deep down inside of them rather than bowing to outside influences that push them to become someone they're not. Gritty and overflowing with grace, Brazen will set women free to be truly themselves in a world bent on molding them in its image.
The word "brazen" means "without shame." Leeana Tankersley wants women to be just that--to unapologetically move from shame- and fear-based living toward lives that are based on love and belonging. With moving personal stories and spot-on observations of the longings we all experience--to know we are loved, to feel comfortable in our own skin, to be heard--Tankersley calls women to honor that voice deep down inside of them rather than bowing to outside influences that push them to become someone they're not. Gritty and overflowing with grace, Brazen will set women free to be truly themselves in a world bent on molding them in its image.
240 pages, Paperback
First published April 5, 2016
23 people are currently reading
609 people want to read
About the author
Leeana Tankersley
10 books132 followersLeeana Tankersley is the author of Breathing Room and holds English degrees from Liberty University and West Virginia University. She and her husband, Steve, are currently stationed in San Diego, California, with their three children: Luke, Lane, and Elle. Leeana writes about living from the spacious place on her blog, www.leeanatankersley.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
April 10, 2016
I am not sure where to begin with what my opinion is regarding this new book by Leeana Tankersley. I think if I had know a bit more about the book before, I might have skipped this title. There are just a few red flags that flew for me while reading Brazen. I could not be made to feel comfortable recommending it to a friend without know they had the ability to eat the meat and spit out the bones. Honestly, Tankersley offers some great advice and encouragement. However, for me, there are a few places in this books pages that I found unsettling.
The chapter I found to most helpful was twenty-three, You are That Girl. I love the way Tankersley goes after the insecure place in every woman I know. It is in this chapter I found myself wanting to tweet quotes from the pages. Tankersley eloquently nails the apprehension I feel about choosing things I want to do, but feel like I don't deserve to do. Everything from an outfit I feel like I can't wear, or an invitation I think I can't accept. I have a few friends I want to call and empower with the thought that they are "That Girl" too.
The places I found disagreement with Tankersley are random and scattered. It wasn't one particular chapter, but here and there. I think her reference to Oprah doing "the Father's business," with her new show Belief is troubling. While this is small, and one example, it is evidence of a different set of beliefs from a typical Christian Living reader. Therein will lie problems with other reviewers who will not be kind in their reviews or star ratings. I was given a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and I have not been compensated.
The chapter I found to most helpful was twenty-three, You are That Girl. I love the way Tankersley goes after the insecure place in every woman I know. It is in this chapter I found myself wanting to tweet quotes from the pages. Tankersley eloquently nails the apprehension I feel about choosing things I want to do, but feel like I don't deserve to do. Everything from an outfit I feel like I can't wear, or an invitation I think I can't accept. I have a few friends I want to call and empower with the thought that they are "That Girl" too.
The places I found disagreement with Tankersley are random and scattered. It wasn't one particular chapter, but here and there. I think her reference to Oprah doing "the Father's business," with her new show Belief is troubling. While this is small, and one example, it is evidence of a different set of beliefs from a typical Christian Living reader. Therein will lie problems with other reviewers who will not be kind in their reviews or star ratings. I was given a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and I have not been compensated.
January 11, 2020
I don't agree with the author on everything theologically, but do appreciate the author's authenticity and the way she thinks through personal challenges. It's a helpful read for anyone who is already theologically grounded.
February 5, 2018
I listened to this book on audio. It is a Christian self-help book, but I would say less Christian and more self-help. In fact, the religiosity was about equivalent to the spiritual guidance you might find on Oprah’s Super Soul Sunday series. Anyway, I am somewhat religious and very spiritual, so I found the tone to be just right. She described a lot of feeling states that were relatable to me and offered support and encouragement to fully embody yourself and your dreams. One star removed, which may seem unfair because it’s almost the other side of the same reasons I liked the book. The author can sometimes seem too much “in her head”. She describes fretting over anything, which is essentially anxiety. The author disclosed that she takes medication for a diagnosed mental disorder and I wholeheartedly support that! But at times I found myself having to do my own “reality check” and remind myself that she’s describing crippling anxiety that not everyone (should) feel and to not get too wrapped up in the author’s self-therapy for her particular mental illness. Some of the experiences she described are likely due to her mental illness, and thus less relatable if you don’t have one. Otherwise nice book and I hope the writer makes it across from Oprah one day soon!
May 12, 2016
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. It's not likely I would have sought it out otherwise. There were some nuggets of wisdom here and there, but though it was marketed as Christian living, it was a mish mash of personal stories, secular examples (e.g. Oprah), "wisdom" of other world religions, and a few Bible verses. The book emphasizes finding yourself, but not doing this in the pursuit of becoming more like Christ. The Bible verses that were used seemed to be stretched out of context and in at least one case, completely contradicted. Maybe I would have had an easier time if this book didn't call itself Christian, but it just was too thin on Christianity to be something I feel I could recommend.
March 28, 2016
This is the kind of book you almost hate to finish because you'll miss the author's voice and the encouragement she brings.
For fans of Shauna Niequist or Emily P. Freeman, BRAZEN reminds us to silence the soul-bullies and turn up the voice of our Father.
For fans of Shauna Niequist or Emily P. Freeman, BRAZEN reminds us to silence the soul-bullies and turn up the voice of our Father.
February 26, 2020
This is a female-oriented book - even a feminist book in a sense! And by "in a sense" I mean than this book is about "waking up", leaving the place where you have been hiding (in your soul/mind) and be the who you have always been intended to be. By God. But I also mean it rides the nowadays wave of female strength - and I mean it as a compliment. Because even I, conservative Catholic woman, am in a need of working more on my female side - and this female in me is also a fighter.
But also the style is modern and some might consider it being a bit shallow and emotional - and while I certainly agree that it is emotional, I do not consider this book being shallow.
This book does not confront the traditional Christian ways about what a role of female is (well, maybe a bit, if you are from a really, really traditional Christian community :)) and it offers a solid teaching in my opinion. Its aim is be you in the wholeness of your dignity, sensitivity, creativity, freedom and in the love of God, Who sees us as His beloveds.
On a con side - I think some topics are repeated.
This book might lift you up and give you some new directions on your way to be a more and more of a woman intended by God.
But also the style is modern and some might consider it being a bit shallow and emotional - and while I certainly agree that it is emotional, I do not consider this book being shallow.
This book does not confront the traditional Christian ways about what a role of female is (well, maybe a bit, if you are from a really, really traditional Christian community :)) and it offers a solid teaching in my opinion. Its aim is be you in the wholeness of your dignity, sensitivity, creativity, freedom and in the love of God, Who sees us as His beloveds.
On a con side - I think some topics are repeated.
This book might lift you up and give you some new directions on your way to be a more and more of a woman intended by God.
December 4, 2018
This is the second book I’ve read by Leeana Tankersley and I love her writing style. She lyrical, almost poetic in the way she used words to give you a bit of a kick in the butt.
In Brazen, she calls on the women of the world to be who we are, authentically and wholly. To step into our personhood and unhide all those parts of ourselves that we keep hidden because we might offend or be too forthright or whatever it is that might displease someone. We don’t have to be superwomen, we don’t have to be, do or have it all - we just have to be who we are meant to be in each and every moment. That is enough.
In Brazen, she calls on the women of the world to be who we are, authentically and wholly. To step into our personhood and unhide all those parts of ourselves that we keep hidden because we might offend or be too forthright or whatever it is that might displease someone. We don’t have to be superwomen, we don’t have to be, do or have it all - we just have to be who we are meant to be in each and every moment. That is enough.
December 2, 2021
I really enjoyed reading this book as a devotional. While I didn't agree with everything the author says, I found she says things in a way intended more to provoke thought than to garner agreement and so it wasn't really an issue if, after pondering for a bit, I didn't come to the same exact conclusions as she did sometimes. I found the author very relatable, and she led me to think about things I needed to and to slow down and make space to hear from God more often. This was a good book, and I was blessed by it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley, and I also borrow the audiobook from my library.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley, and I also borrow the audiobook from my library.
July 31, 2017
Soul-digging, to the created core! What would you find in your Created Center?
August 2, 2017
I adored this book❣️
August 22, 2017
Leeana's writing speaks to my soul. We all could be more brazen in our lives.
December 11, 2018
Another insightful book by Leeana Tankersley. She is so adept at putting into words what I am thinking, feeling, experiencing. I loved this book and highly recommend it.
July 27, 2021
I tried but just couldn’t get into this book
August 12, 2024
This was a re-read for me as I introduced a group of women to the wisdom contained here! Leeana brings some amazing insights from everyday life and uses the prompts at the end to inspire readers to go deeper! Loved it!
May 20, 2018
" Who. Do. You. Think. You. Are?" What makes you think that you deserve to be loved, appreciated, let alone even valued as a human being? What makes you think you're so special? Dear reader, those who tells us such things are not our friends, nor should we allow their words to cause us to think any less of ourselves. As one of God's dear children, we are forever loved and so dear to Him. However, in our daily Christian walk, we are often beset by Satan, who in no wise wishes us to fulfill our God-given potential. It is not his voice that we should be listening to for guidance, but God's alone. Have you ever felt as if you were wearing a mask in public or could never fully be yourself because somehow it felt too 'brazen'? I'm sorry to have to be the one to break it to you, but that's no kind of life. When God created us, He had a very specific adventure planned out for us, even before we were born! Since God doesn't make us with any useless 'spare parts', maybe that something that you are trying to ignore really does have a purpose in His will for your life. That is what this reader had to realize for herself. After years of struggling through dark periods of low self-confidence, I was offered a chance to read this one book by Leeana Tankersley. Its very title seemed to call to my soul. It's called Brazen: The Courage to Find the You That's Been Hiding and it will revolutionize your life.
So, what is the main message of the book? Well, it’s about becoming who God truly created us to be. Through it, we understand that what God has given us is enough, that we do not need to add anything to make us 'perfect'. " Do I believe God put something good inside me on the day of creation that I am to investigate, nurture, return to? Or do I believe the Soul Bullies - that I am a fraud and a fake and a fool for thinking I am entitled to the eternity that God set in my heart?" If anything, this book will lead you to a closer walk with God and cause you to do some serious soul-searching. It brings home the underlying factors that make us question our value and what we can do to move past them all, one by one.
As I read through the book, it felt as if I was sitting down with the author and having a heart-to-heart discussion. Intrinsically, we each have those inner hurts and secret longings that we feel so keenly about, but we don't often have the courage to talk about. Leeana brings them all to light so beautifully and with such gentle understanding. Yet, amidst the soul-baring journey that she takes you on, you ultimately realize that these are fighting words and there is a battle to be won. We fight a daily war against those Soul Bullies who tell us "How dare you" live and countless other lies. By the end of the book, you will feel as if you have discovered a hidden treasure that no one else in the world knows about: you have truly found yourself.
This book captured my attention from the opening pages with words such as these: " ..I end up feeling like an actor in my own life. I feel like I've lost myself, like I don't know for sure who I am anymore, like the best parts of me are hiding. And it's no good. In fact, it's soul death. Do you ever feel like this? Something true inside you is trying to emerge -- pressing up from the depths -- but because it feels sacred and mysterious and wildly free and therefore gloriously dangerous, some dark and tormenting Soul Bully is immediately on your case. A desire, whisper, longing, stirring is welling up, but so is fear, so is an unnerving anxiety. A bully is lurking and you find yourself in what could best be described as a soul tug-of-war. You find yourself skeptical of you." There are several other parts out that stood out to me, but the one that has stayed with me is " We hold our current reality in one hand and hold our longings in the other hand, and we ask God to show us how we can honor both." What are we to do when our dream dies? Trust Him anyways. Do we want security more than we want the Savior?
I loved Brazen and would most definitely recommend it to my friends, especially those who are more into non-fiction, inspirational, and self-help. One could certainly use it along with their daily devotions, in fact, you should. Its words will help get your day moving, but I will warn you now that you better have a box of Kleenex on hand once you begin.
I received an advanced copy of Brazen from Revell in exchange for my honest review. I was not required to write a positive review and have not been compensated for it in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
So, what is the main message of the book? Well, it’s about becoming who God truly created us to be. Through it, we understand that what God has given us is enough, that we do not need to add anything to make us 'perfect'. " Do I believe God put something good inside me on the day of creation that I am to investigate, nurture, return to? Or do I believe the Soul Bullies - that I am a fraud and a fake and a fool for thinking I am entitled to the eternity that God set in my heart?" If anything, this book will lead you to a closer walk with God and cause you to do some serious soul-searching. It brings home the underlying factors that make us question our value and what we can do to move past them all, one by one.
As I read through the book, it felt as if I was sitting down with the author and having a heart-to-heart discussion. Intrinsically, we each have those inner hurts and secret longings that we feel so keenly about, but we don't often have the courage to talk about. Leeana brings them all to light so beautifully and with such gentle understanding. Yet, amidst the soul-baring journey that she takes you on, you ultimately realize that these are fighting words and there is a battle to be won. We fight a daily war against those Soul Bullies who tell us "How dare you" live and countless other lies. By the end of the book, you will feel as if you have discovered a hidden treasure that no one else in the world knows about: you have truly found yourself.
This book captured my attention from the opening pages with words such as these: " ..I end up feeling like an actor in my own life. I feel like I've lost myself, like I don't know for sure who I am anymore, like the best parts of me are hiding. And it's no good. In fact, it's soul death. Do you ever feel like this? Something true inside you is trying to emerge -- pressing up from the depths -- but because it feels sacred and mysterious and wildly free and therefore gloriously dangerous, some dark and tormenting Soul Bully is immediately on your case. A desire, whisper, longing, stirring is welling up, but so is fear, so is an unnerving anxiety. A bully is lurking and you find yourself in what could best be described as a soul tug-of-war. You find yourself skeptical of you." There are several other parts out that stood out to me, but the one that has stayed with me is " We hold our current reality in one hand and hold our longings in the other hand, and we ask God to show us how we can honor both." What are we to do when our dream dies? Trust Him anyways. Do we want security more than we want the Savior?
I loved Brazen and would most definitely recommend it to my friends, especially those who are more into non-fiction, inspirational, and self-help. One could certainly use it along with their daily devotions, in fact, you should. Its words will help get your day moving, but I will warn you now that you better have a box of Kleenex on hand once you begin.
I received an advanced copy of Brazen from Revell in exchange for my honest review. I was not required to write a positive review and have not been compensated for it in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
April 6, 2016
Here is the truth:
Brazen comes out today.
I haven’t finished it.
This is kind of hard for me since I put so much gosh darn pressure on myself to have things done the day or at least a day before.
But that did not happen with this book. And I don’t know if when I finish, I’ll be able to review because there are so many topics in here that have hit me hard.
So, I’m about to review this with 8 chapters to go. This also feels illegal, but I’m not going to apologize (this is something Leeana talks about in her book) for the fact I’m a writer. And writers need to process.
The word, brazen, to me, has this sandpaper quality. Without knowing that it means, “shamelessly unapologetic,” I think of someone who goes out there and doesn’t take no for an answer. I did not think that it had anything to do with creativity or the soul. Or your voice.
What I think I’ve loved most about this book is Leeanna’s open confession with the struggle of Soul Bullies. You know the voices inside us that things like:
How dare you desire.
How dare you follow an inkling?
How dare you love what you offer this world.
How dare you write.
Or in my case: How dare you write a review when you aren’t even done with the book.
Leeana heard these Bullies during one of her 20 minutes of soul time. This is where she sets a time for 20 minutes for 20 minutes and writes whatever her soul is saying to her. At the end, she asks God what he would look to say to her.
I don’t know why more than anything else, her admission to having Soul Bullies has stayed with me. Maybe it’s because I automatically assume those that are older don’t struggle with these things. I mean, they’ve been around longer than me which means they have experience. Ways to overpower the Soul Bullies without constant need to tell them: how dare you tell me who I am?
Or withdraw for a bit, because maybe they’re right.
Leanna’s honesty has had me hooked, how we all struggle with being brazen. How we should not only embrace our brokenness, but our belovedness. How we each have a child, a mother, and grandmother inside us. Guides that show us who we are. How we are allowed to take up space in this world and not apologize for it. To become.
There’s so much in this book that only having a week and some time to read and take in, I couldn’t do it. The Reflection & Expression questions have stopped me in my tracks. They are hard and I want to bypass them, but I just want to to sit them. Because I know I won’t go back to them for months. Years maybe.
And did I mention she encourages all to make a Brazen board? Can I just say I’m so glad she prefaces the book with a note we do NOT need to be Martha Stewart?
Thank you, Leanna. Thank you.
This is a book that you need to spend time with. And I’m honored to continue taking this journey to come out of hiding and see Jesus along the way.
Brazen comes out today.
I haven’t finished it.
This is kind of hard for me since I put so much gosh darn pressure on myself to have things done the day or at least a day before.
But that did not happen with this book. And I don’t know if when I finish, I’ll be able to review because there are so many topics in here that have hit me hard.
So, I’m about to review this with 8 chapters to go. This also feels illegal, but I’m not going to apologize (this is something Leeana talks about in her book) for the fact I’m a writer. And writers need to process.
The word, brazen, to me, has this sandpaper quality. Without knowing that it means, “shamelessly unapologetic,” I think of someone who goes out there and doesn’t take no for an answer. I did not think that it had anything to do with creativity or the soul. Or your voice.
What I think I’ve loved most about this book is Leeanna’s open confession with the struggle of Soul Bullies. You know the voices inside us that things like:
How dare you desire.
How dare you follow an inkling?
How dare you love what you offer this world.
How dare you write.
Or in my case: How dare you write a review when you aren’t even done with the book.
Leeana heard these Bullies during one of her 20 minutes of soul time. This is where she sets a time for 20 minutes for 20 minutes and writes whatever her soul is saying to her. At the end, she asks God what he would look to say to her.
I don’t know why more than anything else, her admission to having Soul Bullies has stayed with me. Maybe it’s because I automatically assume those that are older don’t struggle with these things. I mean, they’ve been around longer than me which means they have experience. Ways to overpower the Soul Bullies without constant need to tell them: how dare you tell me who I am?
Or withdraw for a bit, because maybe they’re right.
Leanna’s honesty has had me hooked, how we all struggle with being brazen. How we should not only embrace our brokenness, but our belovedness. How we each have a child, a mother, and grandmother inside us. Guides that show us who we are. How we are allowed to take up space in this world and not apologize for it. To become.
There’s so much in this book that only having a week and some time to read and take in, I couldn’t do it. The Reflection & Expression questions have stopped me in my tracks. They are hard and I want to bypass them, but I just want to to sit them. Because I know I won’t go back to them for months. Years maybe.
And did I mention she encourages all to make a Brazen board? Can I just say I’m so glad she prefaces the book with a note we do NOT need to be Martha Stewart?
Thank you, Leanna. Thank you.
This is a book that you need to spend time with. And I’m honored to continue taking this journey to come out of hiding and see Jesus along the way.
April 8, 2016
I became a fan of Leeana Tankersley when I read her book Breathing Room. You can see my review here. Brazen is just as FANTABULOUS, if not better. My highlighter poised, I was whipping through this book. There’s so much great material…so many quotes you’ll want to remember. And it’s a book that will make you stop, reconsider, reevaluate and then, if you’re willing, make you RENEW the way you think.
My favorite part of this book is where she talks about Soul Bullies. The ones sent from the enemy to drag us through the mud and convince us through lies that we missed our calling, missed out on the things God had planned for us. Best of all, she talks about how to get rid of those bullies and move forward into the life where our purpose can have a powerful impact. Where we can exist, Brazen. She calls the Soul Bullies hope slayers, oh how I loved that.
Brazen is not a prosperity preaching message. Not at all. I personally detest that kind of thinking. Rather, it’s a wakeup call to stop moving robotically through life and be intentional. In this book, Leanna encourages the reader to create a Brazen board and to add things to the board after each chapter. Colors that are bold and audacious that free your brazen. Images that provide encouragement toward letting go of those unreasonable expectations. It’s a beautiful exercise and demonstration of the inward battle, with freedom birthing, even if you’re not the artsy crafty type. And if you’re not into that sort of thing, well, she still offers great exercises to encourage your inner brazen through the Reflection and Expression sections. There’s not a ton of questions to answer because there doesn’t need to be. One, maybe two simple thought-provoking queries to solidify that chapter.
Rarely does a book come along that has me so excited, I want everyone to read it…but this one is it. Brazen is a book I’ve already shared with friends. It’s a book that gives you more than peppy cheerleader talk. It gives you a chance to see your God given ability to be who He created you to be. I cried, I laughed and I dug in deep, killing the soul bullies. Leeana’s writing is transparent and deeply moving. She is truly gifted in sharing her message and speaking to the heart of a woman.
Brazen is tremendous. There’s so many words I could use to describe it but the most important thing I can say is that it goes beyond a five-star rating. Beyond a “great read”. It’s a book that I’m digesting like a scrumptious meal at a fancy restaurant where you savor every single bite.
I received this book from the author and Revell Publishing in exchange for my honest opinion, which I’ve provided here.
https://wordynerdyblog.wordpress.com/...
My favorite part of this book is where she talks about Soul Bullies. The ones sent from the enemy to drag us through the mud and convince us through lies that we missed our calling, missed out on the things God had planned for us. Best of all, she talks about how to get rid of those bullies and move forward into the life where our purpose can have a powerful impact. Where we can exist, Brazen. She calls the Soul Bullies hope slayers, oh how I loved that.
Brazen is not a prosperity preaching message. Not at all. I personally detest that kind of thinking. Rather, it’s a wakeup call to stop moving robotically through life and be intentional. In this book, Leanna encourages the reader to create a Brazen board and to add things to the board after each chapter. Colors that are bold and audacious that free your brazen. Images that provide encouragement toward letting go of those unreasonable expectations. It’s a beautiful exercise and demonstration of the inward battle, with freedom birthing, even if you’re not the artsy crafty type. And if you’re not into that sort of thing, well, she still offers great exercises to encourage your inner brazen through the Reflection and Expression sections. There’s not a ton of questions to answer because there doesn’t need to be. One, maybe two simple thought-provoking queries to solidify that chapter.
Rarely does a book come along that has me so excited, I want everyone to read it…but this one is it. Brazen is a book I’ve already shared with friends. It’s a book that gives you more than peppy cheerleader talk. It gives you a chance to see your God given ability to be who He created you to be. I cried, I laughed and I dug in deep, killing the soul bullies. Leeana’s writing is transparent and deeply moving. She is truly gifted in sharing her message and speaking to the heart of a woman.
Brazen is tremendous. There’s so many words I could use to describe it but the most important thing I can say is that it goes beyond a five-star rating. Beyond a “great read”. It’s a book that I’m digesting like a scrumptious meal at a fancy restaurant where you savor every single bite.
I received this book from the author and Revell Publishing in exchange for my honest opinion, which I’ve provided here.
https://wordynerdyblog.wordpress.com/...
April 13, 2016
It seems to be the pattern that the books I hesitate to read the most are the books in which I find myself finding the most truth.
I wasn't keen on Leeana Tankersley's new book at first. Hot pink has never been my colour and brazen was a word I didn't hear very often, certainly never in a positive context. Yet, here was this hot pink book staring up at me from my computer, unashamedly asking me "what do you have to loose?" While my inner voices screamed upteen dozen reasons why I shouldn't and couldn't read this book.
So I started reading.
According to the back cover
There are so many moments in life when we choose to silence our intuition, abandon our own voice, and play small, because of that accusing voice inside that whispers, "Who do you think you are, anyway?"
Who you are is a human--loved, worthy, and becoming. Who you are is a woman created by God to be and to do something unique. Who you are, deep down, is brazen.
Brazen means "without shame."
Leeana would probably classify my inner reasons as soul bullies. I'm not sure she would be wrong in that.
In Brazen Leeana offers women a uniquely crafted call to living as they have been called, to be free in "the wild spaces." Equal parts unapologetic calling out and truth speaking is partnered with a grace for women and a heart for creativity and passion.
As far as the structure goes, the chapters are not overly long and could theoretically be read quickly. However, I found this was one of the slowest books I've read recently due to wanting space to reflect upon the material and attempt some of the homework given at the end of each chapter.
The layout with the short chapters and homework option would make Brazen a wonderful option for a women's group or book club and I think the community aspect could add an entirely new dimension if led well.
My only concern with Brazen is that some areas felt very "new age" to me. I'm not entirely sure whether it was unfamiliar practices (free and inhibited are not exactly the first choice people would use when asked to describe me :P ), cultural difference, or if it was borderline new age. Some more conservative readers may find this to be an issue.
Overall, I think Leeana has bravely and brazenly brought a new outlook on an issue that, while often written about, is still largely felt and requiring the new life she brings into the situation.
4.5 out of 5 stars
"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc."
I wasn't keen on Leeana Tankersley's new book at first. Hot pink has never been my colour and brazen was a word I didn't hear very often, certainly never in a positive context. Yet, here was this hot pink book staring up at me from my computer, unashamedly asking me "what do you have to loose?" While my inner voices screamed upteen dozen reasons why I shouldn't and couldn't read this book.
So I started reading.
According to the back cover
There are so many moments in life when we choose to silence our intuition, abandon our own voice, and play small, because of that accusing voice inside that whispers, "Who do you think you are, anyway?"
Who you are is a human--loved, worthy, and becoming. Who you are is a woman created by God to be and to do something unique. Who you are, deep down, is brazen.
Brazen means "without shame."
Leeana would probably classify my inner reasons as soul bullies. I'm not sure she would be wrong in that.
In Brazen Leeana offers women a uniquely crafted call to living as they have been called, to be free in "the wild spaces." Equal parts unapologetic calling out and truth speaking is partnered with a grace for women and a heart for creativity and passion.
As far as the structure goes, the chapters are not overly long and could theoretically be read quickly. However, I found this was one of the slowest books I've read recently due to wanting space to reflect upon the material and attempt some of the homework given at the end of each chapter.
The layout with the short chapters and homework option would make Brazen a wonderful option for a women's group or book club and I think the community aspect could add an entirely new dimension if led well.
My only concern with Brazen is that some areas felt very "new age" to me. I'm not entirely sure whether it was unfamiliar practices (free and inhibited are not exactly the first choice people would use when asked to describe me :P ), cultural difference, or if it was borderline new age. Some more conservative readers may find this to be an issue.
Overall, I think Leeana has bravely and brazenly brought a new outlook on an issue that, while often written about, is still largely felt and requiring the new life she brings into the situation.
4.5 out of 5 stars
"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc."
April 5, 2016
“There I was…me catching up with me…realizing, once again, something eternal lives and breathes in me, and it is good. God-given good.” (page 24)
This is what Brazen does for me. Leeana’s perspective and guiding voice helped me to see old Truth with new, fresh eyes. A deep calling out to deep.
Leeana breaks her book into three soulful sections: Receive Your Identity, Reclaim Your Soul, and Recover Your Soul. Her words resonant in chapters like, Unhook from Heavy, Keep Casting your Nets, Allow for Expansion, You are That Girl, and Unlearn.
She asks us to confront those Soul Bullies who ask us, “Who do you think you are?” It’s not a step-by-step instruction manual but instead, a guide for the reader to believe he/she can trust the process as he/she answer the question for himself/herself. A guide that turns us toward our Creator and the Created Self he put within each of us.
As I flip through the pages, I see many underlinings and highlights that I will revisit and unpack. To sit in for a while and look forward to drawing closer to God.
A note on the form of her book: I love quotes and enjoy when an author uses them under the chapter headings. At times these quotes can seem like filler, but in Brazen they were well thought out and utilized. I highlighted several along with Leeana’s own words throughout the chapter. In addition, at the end of each chapter are helpful, reflective questions. I found them to be pointedly reflective. They are questions that engage with each chapter rather than asking for a regurgitation of the chapter. I look forward to thinking through them during rereads.
If you’ve read and enjoyed books by Shauna Niequist, Emily P. Freeman, or Angie Smith you may find Leeana Tankersley to be a name to add to your list. An author who shares how God has shaped her life and invites you, the reader along for the journey. She challenges you to see how He can and will shape yours too.
I was given an advanced copy of the book in exchange for my honest review. (Thanks, Revell!)
This is what Brazen does for me. Leeana’s perspective and guiding voice helped me to see old Truth with new, fresh eyes. A deep calling out to deep.
Leeana breaks her book into three soulful sections: Receive Your Identity, Reclaim Your Soul, and Recover Your Soul. Her words resonant in chapters like, Unhook from Heavy, Keep Casting your Nets, Allow for Expansion, You are That Girl, and Unlearn.
She asks us to confront those Soul Bullies who ask us, “Who do you think you are?” It’s not a step-by-step instruction manual but instead, a guide for the reader to believe he/she can trust the process as he/she answer the question for himself/herself. A guide that turns us toward our Creator and the Created Self he put within each of us.
As I flip through the pages, I see many underlinings and highlights that I will revisit and unpack. To sit in for a while and look forward to drawing closer to God.
A note on the form of her book: I love quotes and enjoy when an author uses them under the chapter headings. At times these quotes can seem like filler, but in Brazen they were well thought out and utilized. I highlighted several along with Leeana’s own words throughout the chapter. In addition, at the end of each chapter are helpful, reflective questions. I found them to be pointedly reflective. They are questions that engage with each chapter rather than asking for a regurgitation of the chapter. I look forward to thinking through them during rereads.
If you’ve read and enjoyed books by Shauna Niequist, Emily P. Freeman, or Angie Smith you may find Leeana Tankersley to be a name to add to your list. An author who shares how God has shaped her life and invites you, the reader along for the journey. She challenges you to see how He can and will shape yours too.
I was given an advanced copy of the book in exchange for my honest review. (Thanks, Revell!)
April 5, 2016
Transformation is hard work and not without pain along the way.
In her new book, Brazen: The Courage to Find the You That’s Been Hiding, Leeana Tankersley writes:
There’s no real road map for growing into our soul. No formula for self-possession, expansion, investigating our desires, connecting with our longings. If anything, these are trial-and-error prepositions, attempts, and revisions. We listen, we lean in, and often we learn, all the while believing there are gifts in the process, something we will take with us that we couldn’t have acquires any other way.
(from page 172)
This journey with God means we will take risks, requiring great courage, as most times we will not have even a clue to our next step. We strain to hear His voice and then we second guess if it was Him at all. We must silence the voices which would seek to keep us from becoming all which we have been created to be and to do.
The author defines ‘brazen’ as “without shame”. She encourages each of us, through her own stories, to know we are loved by our God who has given us each an identity in Him, a voice which He desires to use, and purposes He will fulfill. God molds us into His own image while at the same time, molding us into our unique selves.
Each chapter includes prompts to challenge the reader to interact with the material in a way which helps the reader discover what has lay dormant in our lives. The book is written in three parts – Receive {Your Identity}; Reclaim {Your Voice}; and Recover {Your Soul}.
In reading the book, I remembered the truth about the silver platter: "New life doesn't get serve to us on silver. Usually we have to fight for it." (pag 174)
Brazen is sure to challenge, encourage, and motivate each one of us to be courageous and fight for the life God has given us.
*** I received a copy of this book from Revell for review purposes. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
In her new book, Brazen: The Courage to Find the You That’s Been Hiding, Leeana Tankersley writes:
There’s no real road map for growing into our soul. No formula for self-possession, expansion, investigating our desires, connecting with our longings. If anything, these are trial-and-error prepositions, attempts, and revisions. We listen, we lean in, and often we learn, all the while believing there are gifts in the process, something we will take with us that we couldn’t have acquires any other way.
(from page 172)
This journey with God means we will take risks, requiring great courage, as most times we will not have even a clue to our next step. We strain to hear His voice and then we second guess if it was Him at all. We must silence the voices which would seek to keep us from becoming all which we have been created to be and to do.
The author defines ‘brazen’ as “without shame”. She encourages each of us, through her own stories, to know we are loved by our God who has given us each an identity in Him, a voice which He desires to use, and purposes He will fulfill. God molds us into His own image while at the same time, molding us into our unique selves.
Each chapter includes prompts to challenge the reader to interact with the material in a way which helps the reader discover what has lay dormant in our lives. The book is written in three parts – Receive {Your Identity}; Reclaim {Your Voice}; and Recover {Your Soul}.
In reading the book, I remembered the truth about the silver platter: "New life doesn't get serve to us on silver. Usually we have to fight for it." (pag 174)
Brazen is sure to challenge, encourage, and motivate each one of us to be courageous and fight for the life God has given us.
*** I received a copy of this book from Revell for review purposes. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
April 14, 2016
Wow! This book hit home. I thought as a senior citizen I didn't need to do any more exploring of my soul. I was wrong.
Maybe you're like Tankersley in that you have quieted the essence that God put inside of you. You've let voices squelch that creative itch. Exploring your soul and living out your inner wild takes blood and guts, Tankersley writes. “Because every dark force in the world wants to keep us from exploring our God-given wild.”
I love how Tankersley encouraged me to reach into the depths of my being and find out who and what God knit there. I loved her encouragement to have the freedom to do and be, to really live out who I am. She helped me realize I was hiding part of my created center when I didn't even realize it.
Here are two insights I personally gathered from reading this book. I don't like frivolity. I've never been one to play games or be silly. Tankersley helped me realize I'm that way because I do not want people to think I'm frivolous, that is, irrelevant, not having any serious value. Ouch. Another insight was about eating. When I refuse to tend to my actual need, I'll get “grabby.” I'll grab some food. Her lesson on that will certainly make me think more deeply the next time I grab some “thing” to fulfill a need.
I really like her suggestion of spending twenty minutes of soul time a day. This is unforced time, just space to make peace with myself and search those crevices I may have hidden away. I also liked her suggestion of rules to break. You mean it's really okay to not set up my voice mail?
I recommend this book to those ready to do some deep thinking about who God created you to be. You may have to look at lost dreams or how you cover up what you feel are inadequacies. Tankersley has added thought provoking questions at the end of each chapter to help you do that. Be ready. You may just find your wild.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher for the purpose of an independent and honest review.
Maybe you're like Tankersley in that you have quieted the essence that God put inside of you. You've let voices squelch that creative itch. Exploring your soul and living out your inner wild takes blood and guts, Tankersley writes. “Because every dark force in the world wants to keep us from exploring our God-given wild.”
I love how Tankersley encouraged me to reach into the depths of my being and find out who and what God knit there. I loved her encouragement to have the freedom to do and be, to really live out who I am. She helped me realize I was hiding part of my created center when I didn't even realize it.
Here are two insights I personally gathered from reading this book. I don't like frivolity. I've never been one to play games or be silly. Tankersley helped me realize I'm that way because I do not want people to think I'm frivolous, that is, irrelevant, not having any serious value. Ouch. Another insight was about eating. When I refuse to tend to my actual need, I'll get “grabby.” I'll grab some food. Her lesson on that will certainly make me think more deeply the next time I grab some “thing” to fulfill a need.
I really like her suggestion of spending twenty minutes of soul time a day. This is unforced time, just space to make peace with myself and search those crevices I may have hidden away. I also liked her suggestion of rules to break. You mean it's really okay to not set up my voice mail?
I recommend this book to those ready to do some deep thinking about who God created you to be. You may have to look at lost dreams or how you cover up what you feel are inadequacies. Tankersley has added thought provoking questions at the end of each chapter to help you do that. Be ready. You may just find your wild.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher for the purpose of an independent and honest review.
April 21, 2016
Are you ready to "fall in love with your life"? Be the YOU God created you to be? Are you dealing with Soul Bullies? Ms. Tankersley touches on these questions in this book and many more as she encourages women to be their brazen selves.
Ms. Tankersley shares life experiences as a military wife (Navy) and mother (of twins) she's grown through to discover the woman her Creator made her to be. The woman she often times has suppressed or ignored because she didn't believe her desires, dreams, and hopes were worthy of pursuing.
I enjoyed Ms. Tankersley's fun and honest revelations, most of which held some truth in my own life. At the end of each chapter there's a section called Reflections & Expression where she asks some questions that allow the reader to expand on the chapter. She also gives you an idea on how you can further develop your Brazen Board-a focus board of sorts for readers to visualize the hopes and dreams they have for themselves. She also suggests 20 minutes of Soul Time, where readers can take a moment each week and really focus on the inner pinings they might've forgotten or awaken some they didn't know they had. Soul Time is an opportunity to listen to God's voice so readers can believe God created their desires, hopes, and dreams for a purpose.
This was an easy read and felt a lot like a friend and I were sharing the woes of womanhood over a cup of tea-which I usually had a mug of while I read through this book. There are some valuable truths in this book, for me: "We are never more loved than in the moment of my failings ..."; "What if I lived in the 'already' of my life and spent more time and energy exploring the garden I've been given?". Finishing this book has me looking at the desires, hopes, and dreams I had buried deep inside and allow them to re-emerge with beautiful acceptance of belief knowing God created me wholly perfect.
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
Ms. Tankersley shares life experiences as a military wife (Navy) and mother (of twins) she's grown through to discover the woman her Creator made her to be. The woman she often times has suppressed or ignored because she didn't believe her desires, dreams, and hopes were worthy of pursuing.
I enjoyed Ms. Tankersley's fun and honest revelations, most of which held some truth in my own life. At the end of each chapter there's a section called Reflections & Expression where she asks some questions that allow the reader to expand on the chapter. She also gives you an idea on how you can further develop your Brazen Board-a focus board of sorts for readers to visualize the hopes and dreams they have for themselves. She also suggests 20 minutes of Soul Time, where readers can take a moment each week and really focus on the inner pinings they might've forgotten or awaken some they didn't know they had. Soul Time is an opportunity to listen to God's voice so readers can believe God created their desires, hopes, and dreams for a purpose.
This was an easy read and felt a lot like a friend and I were sharing the woes of womanhood over a cup of tea-which I usually had a mug of while I read through this book. There are some valuable truths in this book, for me: "We are never more loved than in the moment of my failings ..."; "What if I lived in the 'already' of my life and spent more time and energy exploring the garden I've been given?". Finishing this book has me looking at the desires, hopes, and dreams I had buried deep inside and allow them to re-emerge with beautiful acceptance of belief knowing God created me wholly perfect.
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
May 21, 2016
"There are so many moments in life when we choose to silence our intuition, abandon our own voice, and play small, because of that accusing voice inside that whispers, ‘Who do you think you are, anyway?’” We all know that voice. The one that keeps us from being ourselves. The one that tells us to stay quiet. The one that forces us to follow all the rules, and tame our wild side that is aching to be released. Now, imagine being able to break free from that debilitating, condescending, shaming voice. Well, thanks to Leeana Tankersley and her new book “Brazen”, you now have an invaluable tool to help you do just that.
I heard about “Brazen” over a year before it was actually published, and from the moment I read the description, I anxiously awaited the publication date. Now, having finished the book, I can honestly say that it was worth the wait many times over. “Brazen” is written in such a way that makes it feel like a personal letter from Leeana that is addressed to you, the reader, with all the love, compassion, understanding, and gentleness of a trusted friend. Leeana shares deeply personal stories of her own life and struggles with readers in a way that assures you that she is right there beside you, encouraging you through every step of your own journey to brazenness. While some stories can become a bit too personal, and occasional comments and thoughts may feel inappropriate, these little drawbacks are easy to ignore as they are lost in the much bigger picture of wisdom, grace, beauty, and shamelessness that “Brazen” represents. Clearly, “Brazen” should not be missed. It is an invitation to “receive your identity, reclaim your voice, and recover your soul”, so that the real you can come out of hiding, and bless the world with all the beauty and wonder that you were created with.
“Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.”
I heard about “Brazen” over a year before it was actually published, and from the moment I read the description, I anxiously awaited the publication date. Now, having finished the book, I can honestly say that it was worth the wait many times over. “Brazen” is written in such a way that makes it feel like a personal letter from Leeana that is addressed to you, the reader, with all the love, compassion, understanding, and gentleness of a trusted friend. Leeana shares deeply personal stories of her own life and struggles with readers in a way that assures you that she is right there beside you, encouraging you through every step of your own journey to brazenness. While some stories can become a bit too personal, and occasional comments and thoughts may feel inappropriate, these little drawbacks are easy to ignore as they are lost in the much bigger picture of wisdom, grace, beauty, and shamelessness that “Brazen” represents. Clearly, “Brazen” should not be missed. It is an invitation to “receive your identity, reclaim your voice, and recover your soul”, so that the real you can come out of hiding, and bless the world with all the beauty and wonder that you were created with.
“Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.”
April 13, 2016
Don't tell Leeana, but I do not feel brazen. At all. In fact, it's the subtitle of the book Brazen that reached out and grabbed me: "The Courage to Find the You That's Been Hiding." Yes.
“Brazen” explores the idea of being brazen: without shame, without artifice, being honest and open and real and vulnerable before God, and learning how to recognize "soul bullies," those inner voices that are not of God but to which we listen. The prose is, as all of Tankersley’s writing, poetic and lovely, gentle but firm.
The very act of writing this book was, I believe, completely brazen. To pick up this book is brave. To listen to what the author is saying, and the assertions she makes, may challenge her readers’ preconceived notions and make us feel—well, brazen. It is courageous for her to challenge how we see the soul, or what she calls the “Created Center.”
For a traditional Midwestern-raised ministry-minded woman, I will admit that much of the beginning of the book made me uncomfortable. However, I kept reading, because while some of the initial assertions felt as if they went against beliefs I’ve always accepted, there really wasn’t anything in the book that went against the Bible.
The book is divided into three sections, and the book is comprised of forty chapters or essays. Each chapter has a "reflection and expression" journaling prompt or three. It also has a "Brazen Board" suggestion for artists; Leeana describes it as a "storyboard for your soul."
The main lesson I’m taking with me from this book is that I need to be more aware. I need to learn more about how to be and to listen, rather than do and accomplish.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for posting a review, and I was happy to be a part of the author's launch team to help promote the book.
“Brazen” explores the idea of being brazen: without shame, without artifice, being honest and open and real and vulnerable before God, and learning how to recognize "soul bullies," those inner voices that are not of God but to which we listen. The prose is, as all of Tankersley’s writing, poetic and lovely, gentle but firm.
The very act of writing this book was, I believe, completely brazen. To pick up this book is brave. To listen to what the author is saying, and the assertions she makes, may challenge her readers’ preconceived notions and make us feel—well, brazen. It is courageous for her to challenge how we see the soul, or what she calls the “Created Center.”
For a traditional Midwestern-raised ministry-minded woman, I will admit that much of the beginning of the book made me uncomfortable. However, I kept reading, because while some of the initial assertions felt as if they went against beliefs I’ve always accepted, there really wasn’t anything in the book that went against the Bible.
The book is divided into three sections, and the book is comprised of forty chapters or essays. Each chapter has a "reflection and expression" journaling prompt or three. It also has a "Brazen Board" suggestion for artists; Leeana describes it as a "storyboard for your soul."
The main lesson I’m taking with me from this book is that I need to be more aware. I need to learn more about how to be and to listen, rather than do and accomplish.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for posting a review, and I was happy to be a part of the author's launch team to help promote the book.
April 30, 2016
Leeana Tankersley takes us on a journey to unleash the BRAZEN in all of us!
Early on she makes it clear to not associate brazen in a negative way, but in an empowering and freedom-grabbing way.
The book is broken down into 3 parts that break down: how to receive your identity, reclaim your voice, and recover your soul. In each section, Leeana gives sub points in chapter format with anecdotes and stories that make the point in how to achieve what she is describing. At the end of each chapter are two small sections for the reader to perform an exercise: one in reflection or expression and one in activity.
Leeana's way of writing makes you feel like you are in a comfortable chair at a women's retreat as she relates life and its pitfalls in a real, deep, descriptive, colorful, and humorous way. As I read through each chapter, I found myself, usually with a small smile on my face; either from a "wow, that was really deep" feeling, or "that was funny" feeling. Page 210 made me laugh out loud...
The only thing I couldn't wrap my head around was the section on her describing her 20 minutes of "soul time". I wasn't really sure if this time was prayer time in writing or a free-write time or what...If she could have given and example of what the actual writing looked like would have helped me out there a lot to actually know what we are to be getting out and getting in touch with.
My absolute favorite thing about the book was the "For Your Brazen Board" at the end of each chapter. It was usually something easy that the reader could attach to a memory board or bulletin board that builds a visual reminder for us to be BRAZEN. And the cool thing about that, it is unique to each of us.
Overall, I found the book interesting, reflective and real. I give it 4.5 stars out of 5.
(I received this book for free by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.)
Early on she makes it clear to not associate brazen in a negative way, but in an empowering and freedom-grabbing way.
The book is broken down into 3 parts that break down: how to receive your identity, reclaim your voice, and recover your soul. In each section, Leeana gives sub points in chapter format with anecdotes and stories that make the point in how to achieve what she is describing. At the end of each chapter are two small sections for the reader to perform an exercise: one in reflection or expression and one in activity.
Leeana's way of writing makes you feel like you are in a comfortable chair at a women's retreat as she relates life and its pitfalls in a real, deep, descriptive, colorful, and humorous way. As I read through each chapter, I found myself, usually with a small smile on my face; either from a "wow, that was really deep" feeling, or "that was funny" feeling. Page 210 made me laugh out loud...
The only thing I couldn't wrap my head around was the section on her describing her 20 minutes of "soul time". I wasn't really sure if this time was prayer time in writing or a free-write time or what...If she could have given and example of what the actual writing looked like would have helped me out there a lot to actually know what we are to be getting out and getting in touch with.
My absolute favorite thing about the book was the "For Your Brazen Board" at the end of each chapter. It was usually something easy that the reader could attach to a memory board or bulletin board that builds a visual reminder for us to be BRAZEN. And the cool thing about that, it is unique to each of us.
Overall, I found the book interesting, reflective and real. I give it 4.5 stars out of 5.
(I received this book for free by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.)
May 15, 2016
This book is life changing. It came at the right time in my life when I've been feeling a bit lost at all the losses I've had to deal with. Add in the fact that I don't have a lot of confidence in myself and you have someone this book was meant for!
Don't let the slowish start put you off this book. It took me a few pages before I was really into the book and understood where she was going but I'm so glad I stuck with it because the things she shares really are worth reading and applying to your life.
I love how she shares that God created us to be creative. There is a part of us that is unique and we need to cultivate this in our soul. She tells us that we need to have 20 minutes of soul time every day. This is quiet time where we explore those hidden areas of our heart.
Leeana also tells us it's okay to be ourselves and break the standard rules. We each of us have a color that we associate with the word brazen (read the book and this will all become clear) and we realize we are probably not the plain old beige that we think we need to be to fit in with everyone else. We make choices to fit in when that's not what God has in mind for us at all!
I have been living a life of apology since my life-changing surgery that went wrong. I apologize for not being able to do what I could before - in fact, sometimes I feel I must apologize for my very existence. This is so wrong and I can fall in love with my life, just as it is, and with myself, just as I am. Like I said, this book has been life changing for me. I'm re-reading the book and doing the journaling and that has been even great for me.
If you're someone who wants to live life more fully and love the life God has given you, read this book! I think, like me, you'll love it!
*This book was provided to me for my honest review by Revell Books
Don't let the slowish start put you off this book. It took me a few pages before I was really into the book and understood where she was going but I'm so glad I stuck with it because the things she shares really are worth reading and applying to your life.
I love how she shares that God created us to be creative. There is a part of us that is unique and we need to cultivate this in our soul. She tells us that we need to have 20 minutes of soul time every day. This is quiet time where we explore those hidden areas of our heart.
Leeana also tells us it's okay to be ourselves and break the standard rules. We each of us have a color that we associate with the word brazen (read the book and this will all become clear) and we realize we are probably not the plain old beige that we think we need to be to fit in with everyone else. We make choices to fit in when that's not what God has in mind for us at all!
I have been living a life of apology since my life-changing surgery that went wrong. I apologize for not being able to do what I could before - in fact, sometimes I feel I must apologize for my very existence. This is so wrong and I can fall in love with my life, just as it is, and with myself, just as I am. Like I said, this book has been life changing for me. I'm re-reading the book and doing the journaling and that has been even great for me.
If you're someone who wants to live life more fully and love the life God has given you, read this book! I think, like me, you'll love it!
*This book was provided to me for my honest review by Revell Books
April 19, 2016
Leeana Tankersley has written a striking and profound book. She writes eloquently and honestly about the journey of becoming who we are in our unique God-created centers with all of our gifts, shortcomings and longings. This book resonated deeply with my soul. Maybe because Leeana renders silent the voices of what she calls the Soul Bullies. These are the voices out to steal our freedom, question us, instill doubts about what we’re doing and feed our fears. She realized that as soon as a creative craving, stirring or a longing wells up, forces are at work to keep her paralyzed, confined and silent.
She writes: “Do I believe God put something good inside me on the day of creation that I am to investigate, nurture, return to? Or do I believe the Soul Bullies — that I am a fraud and a fake and a fool for thinking I am entitled to the eternity God set in my heart?”
She also noticed that she talked about her desires and longings as if they were dreamy and romantic. But instead she discovered that these pursuits needed blood and guts and courage to fight what keeps us from exploring what God plants in our hearts. In short essays throughout the book, she beautifully relates how women should boldly connect with their hidden selves to become who God created them to be. Although I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher, I related wholeheartedly to this book and absolutely loved it!
She writes: “Do I believe God put something good inside me on the day of creation that I am to investigate, nurture, return to? Or do I believe the Soul Bullies — that I am a fraud and a fake and a fool for thinking I am entitled to the eternity God set in my heart?”
She also noticed that she talked about her desires and longings as if they were dreamy and romantic. But instead she discovered that these pursuits needed blood and guts and courage to fight what keeps us from exploring what God plants in our hearts. In short essays throughout the book, she beautifully relates how women should boldly connect with their hidden selves to become who God created them to be. Although I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher, I related wholeheartedly to this book and absolutely loved it!
April 26, 2016
"It's easy to feel loved when you're riding high, performing well, on top of your game. It's more difficult to access those feelings of worthiness and unconditional acceptance when things gone awry and your humanity is poking out of every seam."- Leeana Tankersley Brazen
Last year was the year. I was on top of the world. Top of my running game. I felt like I was moving forward in my career. Financially we had been making huge strides, and yet, emotionally I was dead on the inside. The outside looked beautiful. I felt completely on top because I was. Achieving was easy on the outside but dead on the inside. My how the table has turned and grass isn't greener on the other side or maybe it is?
I broke up with my career, shifted gears and could not feel my humanity more than ever. When you go from being on the top to being on the bottom, the world changes. Financially everything has changed, emotionally am more alive, but I can't access those feelings of worthiness. Why do we equate success to money? Why is failure associated with high careers, money, and value? It's completely messed up!
Brazen is teaching me to find the courage within who I am, the things I love and that I am ENOUGH. I wish this book would have come out sooner in life, but alas, it came right when I needed it.
And you have a chance to win a copy! Come be you are WITHOUT shame! Don't be a carbon copy of someone else, but be only YOU!
Last year was the year. I was on top of the world. Top of my running game. I felt like I was moving forward in my career. Financially we had been making huge strides, and yet, emotionally I was dead on the inside. The outside looked beautiful. I felt completely on top because I was. Achieving was easy on the outside but dead on the inside. My how the table has turned and grass isn't greener on the other side or maybe it is?
I broke up with my career, shifted gears and could not feel my humanity more than ever. When you go from being on the top to being on the bottom, the world changes. Financially everything has changed, emotionally am more alive, but I can't access those feelings of worthiness. Why do we equate success to money? Why is failure associated with high careers, money, and value? It's completely messed up!
Brazen is teaching me to find the courage within who I am, the things I love and that I am ENOUGH. I wish this book would have come out sooner in life, but alas, it came right when I needed it.
And you have a chance to win a copy! Come be you are WITHOUT shame! Don't be a carbon copy of someone else, but be only YOU!
April 19, 2016
Tankersley has such a poetic way of writing. The reader can completely tell who she is as a person and an artist through the way she writes. She is artistic, deep and unashamed -- brazen. I love that we get such a clear example of 'brazen', of what we could also do if we choose freedom and braziness.
Unfortunately, some of the author's poetic writing made it hard for me to follow along. I couldn't always understand what I was supposed to be taking away from each chapter.
Overall, I can't say that I completely connected with this book as much as I would have hoped. I struggled to relate to Tankersley's writing and poetic soul. However, I do hope that one day I can be in a better place and perhaps give this one another read. I did grab two major takeaways that I hope to continue exploring in my journal, and for that alone I am thankful. If you are a reader who loves the profound in the simple everyday, poetic, creative souls and are looking to find your strong inner woman, "Brazen" may be for you. 4 stars.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own
See more of this review and others like it at Sunrise Avenue
Unfortunately, some of the author's poetic writing made it hard for me to follow along. I couldn't always understand what I was supposed to be taking away from each chapter.
Overall, I can't say that I completely connected with this book as much as I would have hoped. I struggled to relate to Tankersley's writing and poetic soul. However, I do hope that one day I can be in a better place and perhaps give this one another read. I did grab two major takeaways that I hope to continue exploring in my journal, and for that alone I am thankful. If you are a reader who loves the profound in the simple everyday, poetic, creative souls and are looking to find your strong inner woman, "Brazen" may be for you. 4 stars.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own
See more of this review and others like it at Sunrise Avenue
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