It's Momplicated: Hope and Healing for Imperfect Daughters of Imperfect Mothers

by Debbie Alsdorf, Joan Edwards Kay

Let's face it: when it comes to mothers and their daughters, things can get a little . . . complicated. Momplicated, you might say. Whether your relationship with your mom is close or nonexistent, it's one of your life's most important and defining connections. But because we're all imperfect human beings, even the healthiest mother-daughter bond can be a source of tension and heartache. Is healing even possible?

Combining spiritual disciplines and the best of current therapeutic practice, It's Momplicated will help you discover
Why you and your mother have the relationship you have--the underlying reasons that may be contributing to strain and unease
How this integral relationship may be impacting other important relationships in your life--and what you can do to break the cycle
Introspective tools and exercises to equip you with what you need to begin your own personal healing journey
How to be the daughter God wants you to be even if your mom isn't who you need her to be.
It's never too late to love, never too late to heal, and never too late to trust God to turn the pain in our story into a redemption song. As you read It's Momplicated, you'll realize that while God doesn't promise to fix all our circumstances, He does promise to uphold us and to offer internal healing through life in Him, no matter what.

Genres: Nonfiction, Faith

288 pages, Hardcover

Published September 4, 2018

About the author

Author and international speaker Debbie Alsdorf's mission is to help women live a better story by leading them to the heart of God's love and the truth of his Word. She has spent the majority of her adult life involved in women's ministries as well as being a biblical lay counselor and Christian life coach. In 2005, she brought together a team and founded Design4Living Ministries to challenge women to experience spiritual transformation.
Debbie's first Bible study, Steadfast Love, was published in 2000, followed by ten other books and three curriculums. In addition, she has been a featured writer for Calvary Chapel, In Touch, and Focus on the Family.
Debbie and her husband, Ray, have raised a blended family of four adult children. Today Debbie's favorite role is being a grandma to ten little ones.
You can also connect with Debbie on Instagram and Facebook.

Reviews

[Leah · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a most amazing book! Co-authors Debbie and Joan have solid psychological and scriptural backgrounds, so "It's Momplicated" is super-sound in terms of contemporary psychological practices; it's firmly grounded in Old and New Testament scriptures. Everyone needs to read it, though authors and launch team particularly focused on women because even mother-daughter relationships that have experienced lifelong sweetness never are quite perfect. As a grateful member of the launch team, for me the best aspect of the book (so far) are short case studies or vignettes that help clarify what's within a normal range and what's way far outside normal, expected, and acceptable. Without delving into much of my own pain or history, I've previously mentioned learning about some of my late mother's history and struggles has helped me understand her in general along with providing perspective on her often outrageous, hurtful, treatment of me. Though like every human she had her faults, my maternal grandmother was an almost constant nurturing presence from my early years until her death at 96 years old; by the time I reached high school, she'd often comment on some of my mother's – her elder daughter's – out of line behaviors. Page 33: "When we realize our mothers faced difficulties, we may think it insensitive to acknowledge our wounds. ... However, the fact your mother faced personal trials does not remove the reality your needs were not met." We can carry over this realization to all sides of all our relationships.

Ideas I plan to start implementing right away include: page 54–realizing when we're not doing something or thinking about something in particular, our minds return to a default network; page 64—not so much focusing on my mother's mistakes as on my needs as a daughter and taking positive steps toward healing; page 72—when an event or rejection triggers negative feelings, ask if it's a legitimate concern or not.

Besides rich revelations related to both authors' mom-daughter situations and those of anonymous others, we get many opportunities to put the Serenity Prayer into practice, an "Explore Your Story," and a written "Connect with God" prayer for each of the dozen chapters. It's Momplicated is a prayer book, a journaling opportunity, and a workbook. As I plan to do my second time through, I'd strongly suggest starting a new journal book or spiral-bound notebook (my choice for serious life reflections), or whatever format works best for you to take best advantage of the content.

Notice of material connection: I received a free pre-publication copy of this book from author, publicist, agent, or publisher with no obligation to write a positive review. As always, I've expressed my own opinions in this review.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am probably not the best person to review IT'S MOMPLICATED, but I signed up for it anyway. I had a very good relationship with my mother. She wasn't perfect -- who is? But she was my best friend when I grew up. Was, because she's gone on to glory. And so far I have a really good relationship with my children.



It was quite sad and startling to read through the pages of IT'S MOMPLICATED to find out that some real life mothers were not as good as mine. I went through the self-checks and my mother never did well, most of the things listed. She did make an occasional comment about my looks (I prayed you wouldn't look like my mother-in-law.... I do. Enough said.)



But anyway, if you are someone who has been hurt by your mother, either as a child or an adult, or if you are a mom who hurt your children verbally or physically or unintentionally, then maybe IT'S MOMPLICATED will be a good book to consider. It is written by professionals and has a scriptural base, and it might help to bring healing to your emotional relationship with your mother or children.



This would be good to study through on your own or in a small group setting of trusted friends. Recommended for counselors and preachers as well.



I was given an Advance Reader Copy free. All opinions are my own.

[Tricia Mcwilliams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Two women share their stories of how complicated the Mother/Daughter relationship can be. One of the many things I love about this book is it is not a blame game book. Which leads to another thing I love. It helps the reader to learn to see the other person not just as a mother or daughter but as a separate individual living out their own story. Which each one sees from their own perspective of their life experiences both good and bad.

The authors remind us we're each one created in the image of God and what He says about us is Truth. Sometimes what we hear from our homes, our friends, our co-workers, our church, the world, even from ourselves is not always based on Truth. It's often tainted, with thoughts and beliefs from the stories that have been lived, told to us or are occurring at the moment.

This book is chocked full of wisdom. It points the reader toward healing, to be honest healing often comes by taking an honest look at the Mother/Daughter relationship with open eyes knowing you're walking on level ground, neither is above the other. You're both individuals doing the best you can. However, there is always room for improvement, encouragement and celebration.

Even if you're like me and your mother no longer walks this earth or you're a male this book would be good for you to read. Because healing can still happen and the relationship we have/had with our mothers and our perceptions of it and ourselves, effects many areas of our lives.

The book has scripture all through it but it's not preachy. I like the "Explore your story" section at the end of the chapters, it encourages the reader to think about how what they've read may apply in their lives. The chapters are closed with beautifully written prayers.

I'd recommend this book to anyone and while it's centered on Mother/Daughter relationships I believe a lot of it could be used to help improve other relationships as well.

The quote below is part of one of the prayers in the book, I see it as a blessing spoke that I pray all readers may see in their lives.

"May I accept my past as part of my story but recognize that the story is not over."

I received an advanced copy from the publisher, these are my thoughts on the book.

[Jessica Baker (A Baker's Perspective) · Rating 3 out of 5]

I wasn’t really sure what to expect when I started reading this book. I have an unusual backstory when it comes to the mom thing. There’s a whole lot of baggage there too, so I was hoping that I would perhaps find some comfort in between the pages of this book. While I didn’t find the exact solace I was seeking, I did find this – I am not the only person in the world with a mom problem. There are so many unique stories about daughters and moms, many of which make mine seem inconsequential. In fact, they almost make mine look like a walk in the park. Maybe there is comfort in that alone, or at least a little bit of comfort.

As I was reading I felt like I was sitting in a group where everyone shared their story about their relationship with their mother. I didn’t dislike this, however I think I was looking for something a little bit deeper. There were reflective questions at the end of the chapters, but I still felt as if I was missing something. I wasn’t connecting with the stories, and I just wasn’t feeling their stories apply to my life. However, it could very well be because I went into the book expecting something totally different, and my mind sort of stayed closed to that idea.

But here’s what I loved – I loved feeling like that I was surrounded by lifelong friends. I loved the centralized theme that God’s love is most important. And I loved the chapters that reminded me that my mother’s failures did not have to be my failures. I am my own person and with the strength of God, I can change our family history, which is something I’d like to think that I’ve done. I think this is a great book for someone who wants to read stories and connect with other moms. It’s good for some light reflection on motherhood. It may even be good to read with your mom and discuss!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Bethany · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is such an awesome book, for women who want to try to understand their own relationship with their Mother's to Mother's who want to nurture their own relationship with their daughter I cannot recommend this book enough!

I have a great relationship with my Mom and so blessed to have her, this book made me realize all the more how incredibly blessed I really am and yet I still felt like this book applied to me. I can see how things my Mom did or said have very much shaped me into who I am today and how the things I say and do (or don't do) for my daughter will have a major impact on her life.

This book is such a great reminder that there is healing and hope for any relationship and I don't say that lightly because I know there are some terrible Mother's out there and one of the authors had a pretty bad one but it was beautiful to see some of the healing that was brought to them in later years .I loved the reminder that I need to be more intentional in my parenting and that many of our decisions and what we do deeply impacts our children.

Well written and very thought provoking this book will get you thinking and want to improve one of the strongest bonds you will ever have, that of the relationship with your Mother.

I read this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Cindy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great book for all women to read. We're all daughter's and many of us are Mom's as well. This book will help you with relationship issues with your Mom and show you how you can be a better Mom to your daughter, even if she is grown.
Both authors share from their hearts. This book isn't about bashing or blaming your Mom, it's for helping you examine where you may have issues from your past that are affecting you now and to help you resolve them biblically.
I highly recommend it.
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

[Deana Dick · Rating 5 out of 5]

The title of the book grabbed my attention right away. A book about relationships with your mother is not something I wanted to read. I will say that the authors do a great job of sharing their stories and helping readers understand the dynamics of mothers. I grew up in a very violent and abusive home. I have no idea what it is like to know that your mom loves you. That word was never spoken to me, and oh how I longed to have a mother who was proud of her daughter. After all these years later, the pain of rejection and abuse is still there.

This book is a powerful tool for everyone who has a good or difficult relationship with their mother. I really like the section at the end of every chapter that has questions you can answer to help you understand the reasons why your relationship you have had with your mother is good or needs work. I appreciate how the authors go into details about how we may have believed things said to us that stayed planted in our minds throughout the years.

Missing in my childhood was the protection and security I needed. The book helped me understand that the fear I have lived with stems from not being able to trust anyone. The stories shared by others in the book are emotional and healing at the same time. When I had my three sons, I wanted to be the perfect mom. There is no such thing, but I was determined that my boys would know that they were loved. I might have overdone it a bit with being overprotective, but the greatest joy I get is hearing my sons say without hesitation, " I love you mom."

I am thankful that I read this book and even though it was hard to get through, I have a better understanding of how much healing I need to overcome my past. My mother told me I was stupid, ugly and would never amount to anything. I will never get to experience what it feels like to be loved by parents, but " The Holy Spirit will replace the lie I have believed with God's truth."

I encourage everyone to get a copy of this book. For me it was an emotional journey that I was afraid to take. The book is filled with scriptures that give you hope, heals you and directs your heart to forgive when needed. We were all given parents whether they were good or not. I have never forgotten the commandment that says to , "Honor your mother and father." In my mother's final months she became quite ill and my father asked me to help take care of her. I did without hesitation. It didn't matter about the past, only that I was given a chance to show my mother that I honored her. I was with her when she passed away and although it was hard, I'm glad I was given the opportunity to be with her at the end. I love you mom.

" You are not defined by your mother or your past or even by yourself. You are defined by God."

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

[Florence Wright · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I got to my 20's and 30's my mother and I were more like sisters than mother and daughter. I admit, it wasn’t always a healthy relationship on either side. I’ve realized recently, that I picked up on Mom’s emotions and frustrations and tiredness and instead of submitting it to God and having a healthy, helpful relationship with her, I tried to become her rescuer. I could have done all the same things, helped the same way, but I could have done it with an attitude submitted to God, and doing my best and letting God do the rest. But in a way, I acted out of pride, the “great fixer of things”. Like Mighty Mouse, I’d fly in to save the day!!”

I think the authors of It’s Momplicated have done a great job discussing the dynamics of relationships between moms and daughters. While I am just a daughter and not a mother, I knew I could at least relate to one side of the issue when I read this book.

Two women give their accounts of their relationships with their mothers. Each woman tells her experience and what she has learned. (Technical issue: Even though they gave the name of the person who was giving her story, it was a little tedious to keep track of, it bounced around a bit and made it hard to follow. I think the book could have used better organization.) The bottom line to the whole issue of a mother daughter relationship is being centered on Christ. Doing what God requires of us, to love and to honor our parents (My note – not from the book: “Honor your father and mother” doesn’t have an expiration date on it. You honor your parents for life, whether they are alive or not). Above all, beyond everything else, is forgive, because we all fail each other. We all mess up. We all hurt each other. Forgive and move on, in wisdom is the best way to mend any relationship, even a “momplicated” one 😊

This book is good for any Christian woman who struggles with the emotional issues of motherhood, whether it’s being a mother or having a mother or both. It could also be good for a non-Christian, but I think it may be a bit hard to understand a lot of the principles, because most of them are from the Bible. Being born again, having God’s spirit living within is the main means of having the ability to overcome the hard things and forgive, even when the person hasn’t asked for it.

DISCLAIMER: I received this book as a gift. The opinions I express are provided without obligation for a positive review. I receive no compensation for the review, other than a really good read.

[Katherine Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some books come across my desk that I’d like to press into the hands of just about every woman I know. This is one of those books.

I say so because I’ve found it rare to encounter a woman who, when honest, doesn’t admit to some rather complex emotions attached to her relationship with her mother. Most of us acknowledge some aspects to the relationship we love and appreciate, others we wish might be different. Further, we often worry about carrying these less desirable issues forward into our relationships with our own daughters. As the authors acknowledge in their title, it’s altogether momplicated.

Two aspects of this book set it apart from similar ones: 1) the focus is on the daughter’s unmet needs, which helps to shift blame away from mom and rightfully into the place where healing can occur, and 2) it calls on a right reliance on God to be an active participant in the healing process. The authors’ approach is completely honoring and respectful of moms, while at the same time acknowledging the struggle in many mother-daughter relationships. Personally, I’ve yet to read a book that made me feel more understood, my issues more empathized with. And left me with a surprisingly powerful, forward-looking conclusion.

It’s Momplicated combines a just-right balance of the practical and inspirational, all of which is richly supported by Scripture. This is also the rare book that is better written by two than one; I was glad for the individual insights and stories each woman brought to the collective. Together, they deliver an engaging writing style that is highly relatable. My personal copy is heavily underlined and starred so that I can easily return to significant points.

While it’s ideal for women with moderate to severe mom issues, I’d say any woman who is a daughter or a mom will find it helpful. It’s Momplicated is one of the best books I’ve read on healing for women, and for me, one of the most transformational. Highly recommended.

Thanks to Tyndale House for providing me this book free of charge. All opinions are mine.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is what I gained from reading "It’s Momplicated" by Debbie Alsdorf and Joan Edwards Kay, "God doesn’t promise to fix all my circumstances, but He does promise to uphold me and help me heal from a past belief of believing the lie that I'm not enough and unloved and to help me learn and believe that I am truly precious and loved, no matter how the past has affected me ."


The above statement is partially true, it is a work in progress because this book shows that mothers and daughters are life’s most important and defining connections. Its effects have probably followed you into adulthood.

"It’s Momplicated" by Debbie Alsdorf and Joan Edwards Kay is another book that is one that really needs to be studied and actually work on the "Explore Your Story" part of the book after each chapter.

I have added this book to my work on list ( yes, I have a list of books that needs to be studied more in depth) and I have put this on the top of the list, because after reading this book I realized more than ever that even if you had a good relationship with your mother there are still past issues that you carry on into the relationship with your own daughter and even though the book is about mothers and daughters, I see where some of the relationship even carries on to relationships with others.

I wish I had read this book before because I would definitely use it to have a talk with my own mother, who died May, 11, 2018. But I can and will use it as a tool in making my relationship with my own daughter better. I feel like this would have been a great tool for mom and me as we both like to read and shared books, I can imagine the tears and conversations we would have, if given the chance. This book can still be a healing tool even if your own mother is no longer alive.

I don't think working on a review has ever made me cry but this certainly has. I suggest all mothers and daughters read this book.

I was given a complimentary copy by the authors and Celebrate Lit. These opinions are my own.

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's Momplicated is the latest book for both Debbie Alsdorf and Joan Edwards Kay and it is fantastic. I am so glad to have had the opportunity to read and now review this powerful book. Debbie Alsdorf and Joan Edwards Kay write with authority about Mother/Daughter relationships, how this relationship from the beginning shapes your self image and other relationships throughout your life, how to overcome this if necessary and build better relationship. This book spoke to me just from the description because of my relationship as a daughter and as a mother. Even as I reflect on this book, I am reminded of the strained relationship with my own Mom for many, many years and we still have our moments. I am the oldest of 3 children and I always felt like a failure in my Mom's eyes from the time I can remember. Like who I was wasn't what she wanted. I would see my friends with their moms and the relationships and I was confused at first and then envious. This book really has helped me see that it is OK to be me, regardless of what others thinks especially my Mom. I love my Mom and I am seeing that regardless of everything our relationship can improve. On the flip side I see myself as a Mom to my 2 daughters and work very hard to be the Mom they need even if I was flawed in the previous years. It's Momplicated is a book I am planning on rereading because I know there are things I might have missed or needs reinforcement. It's Momplicated is a book for any mother/daughter relationship whether good or bad. I HIGHLY recommend this book to any mother and daughter. I give this book 5+STARS.

I received this book from Celebrate Lit Blogger Program and the authors for no charge in exchange for my honest review of this book. The opinions expressed here are my own.

[Bree · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think I cried more through this book than I did with any other book I can recall reading. It was intense in a way that many of us need. It called to this reader in a way that I never knew I needed but it certainly left me with feeling that I can be a new mom and a new daughter still. It isn’t easy navigating the channels of motherhood and daughter-hood. But this book allows for you to learn to forgive, love strong and lean more on God.
It starts with personal stories, then prayer. Each chapter and section is designed for you not only to recall the past but find ways to mend the future as needed. I love that I was constantly reminded that moms are not perfect and we are not alone. Motherhood can feel lonely, it is a host of emotions that a man will never feel, a connection from birth to death with your children. This book was a loving reminder that we can lean on God through this journey.
I have now gone and written my mom, words that I should have said years ago. This book reminded me of moments in my life where I saw shifts, and now with a new understanding I can honestly my relationship is momplicated but I truly wouldn’t have it any other way. Without this book I don’t think I would have healed in ways I needed but were shadowed by so much more in my life. Thank you authors and God for this book, it came to me and brought me up higher. This book possibly has mended my relationship with my mom and helped me to become a stronger mom for my daughter. Thank you Lord, for this book the guidance given to the authors and the chance to read and change my life. I am beyond grateful that this book has and will be in my life, along with now having authors to follow and study more from.

[Aminata Coote · Rating 5 out of 5]

Have you ever thought about the legacy you received from your mom? What if the mother-daughter relationship left you with scars? What if the memories you have of your mom are more negative than positive?

It’s Momplicated walks you through the healing process. The writers gently inspire you to uncover the memories of your mother-daughter relationship and discover your momplications. As you work through your memories, they share stories of other women and their mothers – not for you to compare lives and to feel burdened, but for you to realize that healing is possible.

Know God – Both Joan and Kay recognize that true healing comes from our Heavenly Father. They encourage you to seek God during the healing process. The book includes Bible verses and biblical concepts for you to meditate on. Each chapter ends with a prayer related to the steps or lessons covered.

Know yourself – In order for you to be healed, you have to admit how your momplications have affected your life. Each woman will have a different story. As you work through the exercises in the book you’ll learn more about yourself, don’t be surprised if you realize some of your habits and practices are the result of hidden momplications.

Run your race – Every woman’s mother story is different. Our mothers leave different impressions on our lives and the way we respond to them will be unique. We have to be bold enough to walk the path we are given. We have to be brave enough to seek the healing that we need.

I received a free copy of It’s Momplicated through the Lindsay Hartz Author Ambassador program and Netgalley as part of the book’s launch. A positive review was not required.

[Rosalyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are a mom, or a daughter, you will want to read this book. It is powerful and life-giving. These ladies dive right in to the hard issues that we face. Issues relating to our relationship with our mother. And how we can learn from our past and move forward to be a better mom for our daughters.

I found many, many thoughts that I'd love to share here, but there are just too many I don't even know where to start.

One of the main ideas presented here is that we ALL have imperfect mothers. Just like each one of us mothers would be the first to admit that we are also imperfect in our mothering.

This book gives keys to help you become aware of areas in your life that you need healing. Tools to recognize, and then help you move on and be the mom your children need. To be the mother that God is calling you to be.

I've learned so much from reading this book, and I hope to remember and utilize it as I grow in my Christian life.

Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

[Jessie Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

Everyone has a mother in some shape or form... whether she was around and loving, around but distant, hardly around, or never around. Our relationships are different but since no one is perfect, we are all sinners, there are bound to be thorns among the roses. This book is for everyone! It's Momplicated addresses many situations but doesn't speak in a negative condescending tone. It's one of grace and forgiveness. One of healing and beautifying. The thought provoking questions at the end of each chapter can be done individually or with a group. They cause the reader to really dig into their past and deal with it instead of just tossing it to the side thinking that that alone will remove it from their life. There are so many examples! I loved the way the book didn't leave you to stew in your hurt but gently guides the reader through examples, scripture, and encouragement towards restoration. There are practical ways we can relate to our moms and accomplishable next steps. It's hopeful and realistic but not in a fake impractical way. I can't wait to go back through this book slowly and allow God to use it to change my life.

I received a copy of this book from CelebrateLit. This has in no way influenced my review. All thoughts are my own.

[Jennifer J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

A well-written, loving, informative and extraordinarily valuable resource for all women. Here is a golden opportunity for every daughter to proactively and deeply consider her own life-story. The authors wisely suggest utilizing this resource either individually, in a group setting or one-on-one with a mentor, counselor or therapist.

This book offers the reader a unique and worthwhile opportunity to answer relevant questions, consider significant Scriptural tie-ins, practice several beneficial exercises and read the shared stories of the authors’ and other daughters. Although potentially difficult, this process offers a real chance for self-discovery and heart-healing – something all daughters need and deserve

I have benefitted from this experience and most highly recommend this resource. This would make a very thoughtful gift.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book. A favorable review was not required, no compensation was received, and all views expressed are my own.

[Ashley Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, this is a good one. It is not my normal book to review because it isn't fiction but I loved it. I have a good mother/daughter relationship with my mom, but I still felt it. The words and scenarios the authors describe are great and make me think. Your mom isn't just your mom. She is a person, with her own life/walk/problems. Even if you have a good relationship, that is sometimes difficult to remember that she isn't just your mom.

It is also good to help you if you are a mother with a daughter. It made me stop and think about how I interact with her and what I want her to think of me. We have a good relationship but it can always be better and this book helped me with that. Overall, it is a book I think any mom/daughter can read and get something from so I would recommend it.

It is a 5/5 for me.



Thank you to the author/publisher for the review copy of this book (via Celebrate Lit). I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.

[Danessa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn't know what to expect from this book, but "momplicated" sounds just about the right term to describe the relationship I have with my mum. And it doesn't help that we hold different religious views. So as a believer, I do have tons of baggage (who doesn't?) and the authors of this book shared their stories and examples in a relatable way... I kept nodding my head as I went along reading.

I love the "Explore Your Story" at the end of every chapter, where readers are encouraged to answer reflective questions in their own situations and anchor on the Truth of God's Word in their circumstance. Connecting with God and healing is made very possible if you are honest with yourself and are willing to try out the steps recommended. Even if your mum is not around or it's not possible for her to be a part of the process, one can still heal internally (with the Lord's help) as they journey through this resource.

I received an advanced readers' copy as a part of the launch team. However, this review is based on my unbiased and honest opinion.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

With so many self-help and psychology books on the market it can be a challenge to choose the ones worth reading- the books that will truly resonate with our hearts and encourage us towards deeper peace and healing within ourselves and our relationships with others.

This book is one of the ones worth reading- I promise you!

It's been a while since I've read a book that hit on so many pieces of my life in such a relevant way. This book will forever be a valuable resource in processing my feelings towards my own relationship with my mom, and also my current relationship with my children (which bears the impact of my relationship with my parents). It will help you identify your hurts, process your reactions to seemingly unconnected circumstances (but, as we all know, EVERYTHING is connected), and nudge you towards greater peace, acceptance, understanding, and forgiveness in your mother-daughter relationship.

I would highly recommend this book!

[Emily Nelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advanced copy of the book and started devouring it. Even though my mom is gone, there are unresolved issues in my heart. Will I always have that hanging over me? I want to make peace with our relationship. Momplicated helped me understand that while my mom was deficient in some categories she was not a poor mom in others, and so for those areas I could be grateful. The Mom assessment was super helpful for that. The authors also helped me understand that mom was parenting out of her deficiencies and wounds and trying the best she knew how. I love how the authors keep saying It's Never too Late to Heal. Yes, I can make peace with my mom, extend her grace and I can also heal any rifts between my adult children and I in order to make our relationship the best it can be. My honest opinion is this...grab a copy of this book! Your mom and your kids will thank you!

[Yvette · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m both a mother and a daughter. My husband and I have tried to raise our kids with the best tools available and meet our kids/moms where they are at. This book tackles the ups and downs in the momplicated relationship, and allows a journey of healing and celebration. You will have an opportunity to reflect and journal responses as you travel down this therapeutic path with a therapist and a lay counselor and God will speak His Grace and Mercy to you. I remember telling Debbie a few years ago that I’d love to see her write a book on mom/daughter relationships-Well, this book is beneficial for any relationship. It’s a must read! I’ve received an advance copy from the publisher and I am leaving my honest opinion about the contents. #momplicated #daughters and Mother’s #relationships #healing #generations https://www.amazon.com/dp/1496426576/...

[Patti Pierce · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was thrilled to have the opportunity to review this book. Throughout my life, I have had an excellent relationship with my mom. She has been and still is my best friend. However, in reading the book and talking to friends in real life, I know that not all women are fortunate enough to have that type of relationship. The struggles and pain are real. Almost sixteen years ago, I became a mother to a daughter and I hope and pray that by reading this book, I can strengthen our relationship. Debbie Alsdorf and Joan Edwards Kay do an excellent job of examining and discussing the relationships between mothers and daughters. The book truly is meant to provide hope along with healing to those of us who recognize we are imperfect daughters and want to strive for more. This is a book that all mothers and daughters should want to read for themselves

[Dana · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a book for all of us who struggle with our relationship with our Mothers. This is a book for those of us who are imperfect Mothers and Daughters alike. This is a book for women who wish to change their relationship with their parent before it's too late as well.

It's Momplicationed helps you to better understand your upbringing, the pain that can sometimes cause, and the heart of a Mother as well. Biblically based, this book speaks of changing your heart to find forgiveness where it's needed and strength from your past.

This book helps to lead you to healing those past pains that you may think are unforgivable but in the end, God can redeem your doubts and bring his purpose to a clearer understanding. It's Momplicationed is a book that all women should read. Get your copy today!

[victoria · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was beautiful writing, inspiring and compelling to read with also fully insight had a great story connection with a relationship between mom and daughter. It’s never come easy when we had to talking about love and relationship so much complicating like mom and daughter as this book will lead you along with a healing path to the safe place of knowing you are truly precious and love. No matter what situation you are, or how your past has effected you, God offers healing, a sense of value, belonging, and strength and this will help and encourage you to have compassion on yourself, offer forgiveness and compassion to your mother, and finding hope in the restoring power of God. I highly recommend to everyone must to read this book. “ I received complimentary a copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers for this review”.

[Ronel Sidney · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s Momplicated: hope and healing for imperfect daughters of imperfect mothers⁣
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I have read a handful of books on mother daughter relationship but, the questions at the end of each chapter of It’s Momplicated took all the knowledge I have read and turned it into action steps for healing.
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“Healing needs to be deeper than words.”⁣
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I give It’s Momplicated 4/5 ⭐️‘S because it is filled with healing truth, stories of other mother daughter relationships plus good questions and exercises for digging deeper into your own story. ⁣
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“Our wounds truly are the windows through which God’s light can shine.” ⁣
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I recommend this book to any women who struggles to understand her relationship with her mom or longs to be apart of changing the future generations of her family. ⁣
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[Janice Sisemore · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s Momplicated

I love the name of the book, of course, a made up word but so true with mother/ daughter relationships. The makes you think about your relationship with God, with your mother and with your daughter. Brings back memories from my childhood and my daughter childhood.

The book has lot of useful information, at the of the chapters has questions to make you think and answer. A lot of examples from the authors with their relationships. I found the book very interesting. Love the chapter when comparing to the Serenity Prayer and how to use that for healing.

I received an complementary copy of the book from Celebrate Lit. I was not required to write an positive review.

[Tiffany Pate · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's Momplicated tackles an at times heavy topic that can be full of hurt for so many people with such faith and hope. I was worried that the book would get too heavy to keep reading but it is so perfectly balanced with stories, application and truth that I couldn't put it down.
As a daughter and a mother I am so glad I read this! I can start to see some of my past in a new light and cant wait to see how different my relationship with my daughter can be. It might be momplicated but its still so hopeful!

[Alicia Beck · Rating 2 out of 5]

My Review
It's Momplicated is like a self help Christian book for mothers or daughters. I could see it being a good help to some that have difficult relationships . I was blessed with a great mom that is my best friend so I did not gain much from this reading personally. If you are a mom it can cause you to open your eyes how small things can leave a big impact on your children and I know many of us need that reminder so we can strive to do better. Overall not a bad read. Disclaimer : I was given a complimentary copy of this book but all thoughts and opinions are my own honest ones.

[Sara Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m so glad I finally made time for this book. It is huge in the healing of my own ‘momplicated’ relationship and my process of differentiating from her. Easy to read, I like the therapy terms and Scripture and personal narratives that are woven throughout. Accessible to anyone even without a therapy background. I haven’t done the journaling/self reflection prompts but want to later and then talk through with my therapist. If anyone wants to do a group discussion of this book, I’m game. Will definitely be recommending this to people.

[Lisa Shrewsbury · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a mother, daughter, sister, pastor's wife and licensed marriage and family therapist I cried through much of this book while reading it the first time. Tears of compassion, conviction, sorrow, gratefulness, hope and inspiration. It touched me personally as a mother, a daughter and as a professional who sees women of all ages struggling with pain related to their role as a mom or the imprint of their relationships with their own mom. I know of no other book that addresses these core issues in such a personal, practical, grace-filled, biblical and psychologically balanced way! I am recommending it to clients and women in my community enthusiastically!