Is It Just Me?: Learning to Trust God in the Middle of Hurts, Doubts, and Fears

by Grace Valentine

Have you ever wondered if you’re the only one who’s hurt, struggling, lonely, and confused? It’s not just you. Grace Valentine wants you to know one thing for sure: You’re not alone in your struggle. You’re not the only one feeling freaked out by the future. You’re not the only one dealing with crap. You’re not alone! Many women joke about having trust issues—laughing at their struggle because it feels common but secretly feeling there is no hope. Grace Valentine was one of them. In her twenties, she realized her trust issues were not humorous because, in reality, hers were trust issues with Jesus, her community, her family, and herself. And they were destroying her faith. Grace told herself she was simply being realistic, but the truth was, she was entangled with doubt and lies. In Grace’s second book, Is It Just Me? , she’ll walk you through how to handle rejection, stop joking about your issues, and find peace and healing for your scars by answering five deeply felt questions: Grace’s prayer is that as you journey with her through early adulthood, you’ll remember you have a Savior who loves you, flaws and all. By learning to trust in God’s design and His plans for your future, you’ll find you have everything you need to thrive in your twenties—and beyond.

Genres: Christian, Faith, Nonfiction, Christianity, Christian Non Fiction, Spirituality, Religion

224 pages, Paperback

Published February 9, 2021

Reviews

[Savannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book felt like a conversation with your bestie. Or like a warm hug.

[Мартина Найденова · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book. As I was listening to it, I felt as if I’m at a sleepover with a new friend or even better- with my big sister that I never had. The way the author talked about her experiences, choices and even the awkward moments of her life, was really engaging. It made me feel seen and understood.
It was a simple book with a simple message- “You are not alone”. The book points to the One who has all the answers, who wants to heal and restore you, who calls you beloved. The book points to Jesus, who had seen it all and knows you better than you do. There’s a simple life-changing advice that I took from this book and that is…to go and sit at the feet of Jesus.
Honestly I wish I had read this book earlier, because it convicts and comforts you at the same time, it provides beautiful explanations of what it really means to live with God, to love and not be conformed to this world.
I recommend this book, because everyone at some point of their lives believed the lie that they’re the only one who is confused, frustrated, fearful, doubtful, sad… who got hurt or is struggling with their past, self image, pride, trust issues, relationships and so on.
So grab that book, start reading it snuggled in bed with a cup of tea or enjoy listening to it on the way to work/ uni, because we all need some girl talk that points us to the truth.

[Kendra Neal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Women, especially Young Women, usually have Self-Doubt issues
and also issues with Trusting others. Young Women are also trying
to find their "place in this world". They often forget to turn to God
and trust him for Guidance.

Grace Valentine was once going through this. She was in her 20's and
realized she didn't have to be lonely, she just needed God in her life.
Relationships with her family, friends, and others were strainded due
to trust issues. She saw the reality and made changes to help her
focus on God and help her escape the Doubts and Lies she was
dealing with.

Is It Just Me? is geared towards Young Women and College aged
Women, but I feel that it could be a great resource for women of
all ages. Grace Valentine tells her story with Humor and very
Conversational. Each Chapter has a section for ""Real Talk" and
includes Scripture to encourage the reader. I was reminded myself
while reading this book that I am not ALONE, God will always
lift me up and encourage me. Is It Just Me? by Grace Valentine
would be a GREAT Bible Study for Young Women or to be read
as a Devotional. GREAT Resource for Women!

[Beth Porter · Rating 4 out of 5]

So many good reminders in here 🫶🏾

[Christi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! What can I say? This book is hands down life changing. Grace Valentine has a gift for getting raw and real from the get go and doesn't let up. Like a friend sitting down with you over coffee when life gets tough, Grace has a way of getting to the point, and telling the truth in love.

From the introduction I was right on point with what Grace's message was, and it instantly began to speak to me. I skimmed through it to get the general idea, but am now going back to delve deeper, and really interact with the text. This resource is so rich, and it is astounding that Grace is only 23 years old!

The main message that we are not alone is one that we all need to hear right now, especially in our current world, and the fears and doubts that I have are shared by many, even if I don't realize it. I am not alone in my struggles. We are all struggling. It was a revelation that just clicked in my mind and heart, and filled me with a sense of peace. Relying on the strength of the Lord, and the strength and faith of others, I know I am going to be ok. WE are going to be ok.

I can't wait to dive deeper into the "Real Talk" questions that are included at the end of each chapter, and continue the eye-opening. It's so easy to get focused on our own battles, and this is a great reminder that we are all fighting the good fight!

Thank you Grace for exquisitely pouring your heart out in, and writing, Is It Just Me?. Your words, and the Lord, are changing my mind and my life.

*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions are completely honest, and my own.

[Lisa's Reading · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is written much like a devotional for young women. The author’s voice is young and she relates to high school and college-aged women. She uses her experiences in life to teach them about the Christian life.

Her style is conversational and she’s quick to admit where she has failed in her walk with God. She also speaks about giving grace in your own life. She doesn’t think that Christians should be lame. In other words, she doesn’t value hang-ups about modest clothing and dancing. She appears to favor social drinking, instead of the heavy drinking she did in college.

Each chapter in the book gives a theme. She presents scripture and many personal experiences along with her opinions. Then, at the end of the chapters there are questions to consider. She sums up with the question: Is it just me? She shares that none of us are alone, but all face similar problems in life. Her answer is that Christ is the one who can meet every need.

[Connie Saunders · Rating 4 out of 5]

In her book "Is It Just Me?" author Grace Valentine asks if we've ever experienced doubts, fears, loneliness, and issues with trust? My answers are "Yes, I've felt these emotions" and "NO, Grace, it isn't just you!" I like that Valentine writes in an easy, conversational style and uses many of her own life experiences as illustrations, I also appreciate that she references Bible scripture and that she ends each chapter with Real Talk, a section of statements and questions to help increase our understanding.

"Is It Just Me?" may seem to target young women but I consider it a wonderful resource for all of us who've wondered what our purpose is and whether we will ever get it right. It is enlightening, encouraging, empowering, and it affirms that even when we don't get it right, it won't affect God's love for us!

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book that I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Michaela Bush · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book touches on some very hard questions that we face -- a lot of the "norms" we face as well -- and challenges them in light of God's Word. Valentine has a very personal touch to her writing; it almost feels like you're just there having a chat with her. It's very easy to read, enjoyable, thought-provoking, and keeps your attention the entire way through the book, which is impressive for a nonfiction/instructional book. It's something that will encourage you to dig into the Bible to find answers for yourself, which is super important. There are also some great discussion questions/journaling prompts included in each chapter. Overall, it's a great book to check out; very open, honest, and down-to-earth.

[Adelaide Aguiar · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.3 stars!

this book was exactly what i needed in the season that i’m in right now. very practical but still pointed to the heart of Jesus.

[Alexis Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so amazing! It felt like a conversation with a great friend, a much needed hug, a pep talk to get you through life. Grace Valentine does such an amazing job of taking you beyond the pages; she is so easy to relate to and includes Scripture in a way that is both relevant and easy to understand. This book brought me so much conviction, but even more comfort. I’m not sure how my highlighters made it through this read, I don’t think I ever put them down😅
I definitely recommend to any high school//college girl chasing Jesus!

[Reagan Gorgas · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely adored this book. So much encouragement and SO relatable 🤍

[Jenna Lazar · Rating 4 out of 5]

i really enjoyed this one. i like how it has chapters i can refer back to when issues in my life arise and i need a little encouragement. i will definitely be reading more of her books

[Lauren Curtis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every time I read one of Grace’s books I feel like I’m talking to a friend. She’s so relatable, so honest, and every chapter is filled with truth from God’s Word.

[Wren · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grace Valentine's lovely, humor- and truth-filled book helps readers understand that it isn't just them! All women struggle with questions that address the issues of life and conflict with what they think that elusive "perfect woman" should look like on the outside...while inside, we're challenged by comparison, fear, exhaustion, image, and God. Can we trust Him? What is He really wanting to do with our lives? What lies are we believing that are tripping us up AND keeping us from real intimacy with the God who loves us?

Valentine lovingly--as a good friend would--takes us through these questions, shares what she has learned, and encourages us as we seek to move forward. It turns out that God doesn't expect us to work out our lives apart from Him, and He doesn't expect us to make our lives perfect by meeting society's expectations OR ignoring our own pain and suffering. The author helps the reader to understand how to go to God with all of our lives, to trust Him, and to follow Him into adventure. This is a beautiful book filled with love, healing, and wisdom. Definitely worth a read!

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Suzie Waltner · Rating 4 out of 5]

I may not fall anywhere near Grace Valentine’s reader demographic but found her voice in Is It Just Me? authentic and relatable. Every woman struggles with feeling alone in their seasons of life.

Armed with truths bathed in scripture, plenty of personal anecdotes, and touches of humor, Valentine gets real with readers, in much the same way as a concerned and caring friend would. Yes, we’ve all made decisions we’re not proud of today and this author reminds us of that—all of us have been there. And God is okay with that. He doesn’t expect perfection in us (thank goodness!) but he longs for us to go to Him with our struggles and hurts and disappointments.

Valentine may be young, but God has given her a wealth of wisdom. Isn’t it refreshing to find someone so young who is passionate about putting Jesus first in her life? And how can you not appreciate wisdom like this: “On your difficult days, eat ice cream.”?



Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

[Mikaela Carroll · Rating 4 out of 5]

Grace Valentine's Is it Just Me? is an excellent reminder that we are not alone in our doubts, questions, and fears. As a young adult, I have asked myself "Am I the only one..." questions numerous times. Grace's book has reminded me that there are so many who struggle with the same things. She shares her experiences and encourages her readers to press into God and truly rely on Him through the highs and lows. At the end of each chapter, Grace includes a "Real Talk" section in which she lists questions prompting the reader to think through and apply what they have learned. This book was a very easy read, and I think many young women would benefit from reading it.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Tania · Rating 4 out of 5]

Powerful words, guided by the Holy Spirit, and written by such a talented young lady.

[Sarah-Kaitlyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Is It Just Me? By Grace Valentine

I truly don’t know where to begin. I picked this book on a whim because the cover really spoke to me “learning to trust God in the middle of hurts, doubts, and fears” basically everything I feel on a fairly consistent basis, and I’m sure many of you guys do as well! Grace writes with a very relatable girl next door conversation style, which had me blowing through this book, yet also stopping many times to laugh and shed a few relatable tears (both of laughter and pain). This is a book that I feel should be in every young women’s bookshelf and discussed further through book clubs. Grace discusses many things in the book such as church hurt, the dangers of comparison, where to find your purpose, when busyness become a badge, etc. And honestly, from reading various books in hopes to help me navigate being in my 20’s and a Christian, I find this book to be one of the best for that, that I’ve come across. I also appreciate how she has her testimony sprinkled throughout the book as well and how often she mentions grace. There is grace upon grace for us, yet it’s so hard for us to accept the free gift of grace! She very much walks us as readers through why deflecting and leaning on ourselves & pride will harm us longterm and gives very practical advice backed with lots of scripture throughout to bring us into a place of reflection, repentance, and renewal.
Her main desire behind writing this book was that those who are struggling with the various things mentioned in the book wouldn’t feel so alone, and I’d say, in closing this review and book, that I no longer do and it’s also been a great encouragement to me, one that I’ll share with others and also reach out to those I trust and share my real life instead of simply trying to save face and ignore the gift of grace.

A few favourite quotes from the book:
“There is a life to be lived today. Stop striving to find your ‘one day’ and start walking in purpose today.”

“Trust must be chosen daily. Live in trust, and walk in your purpose. It won’t always be easy, and trust can sometimes make life more confusing. But trusting in your Creator leads you to find what you were created for. And when you walk in this purpose, you will realize you aren’t alone.”

“We wear this badge of busyness because we feel defined by what we do. And when we feel defined by what we do, we ignore what Jesus has already done.”

[Reader · Rating 1 out of 5]

*Book Review* Not good At All.

I was disappointed with this book, which fell short of my expectations. Two sections stood out to me as particularly problematic. Firstly, the discussion of "white privilege" seemed out of place in a Christian book, as it introduced a worldly perspective that didn't align with the rest of the content. I believe that Christian literature should focus on spiritual growth and biblical principles rather than sociopolitical issues. She used the White Privelge idea in the section on Frustration and it wasn’t about how White Privelge is out of control or not godly, it was about how she was frustrated with not seeing her ignorance and not seeing how “privileged” she was. How it led her not to God, but to to take a class at college called “Gender, Race, and ther Media.” Now this sounds like it could have been a great class, but this class revealed to her this: “but through this class i came face to face with my privilege. Privilege that came from my background. I also learned more about gender, discrimination, and experienced moments in which I have faced discrimination as a woman.” She didnt run to God, she ran to a secular class at college.

Secondly, I took issue with the author's assertion that women are raised to be silent and have their voices silenced. This portrayal doesn't accurately reflect the current state of society, where women have made significant strides in expressing themselves and asserting their rights. Saying that women should have their voice in the “gentle” section is a contradiction. (From the book: “ it is such a shame that woman’s voices have been silenced for years. We naturally raise girls to be quiet and look pretty, and many women struggle to find their voice because of this. So let me be clear; speaking up is not the issue. I do not think you can speak up too much.”)

When women express feelings of being silenced, it often stems from a desire for resistance to any and all authority rather than an actual lack of voice.

Overall, I would not recommend this book to readers seeking a Christian perspective.

(Chapter 10 and Chapter 18, page 128)

[Miri · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn’t know I needed this book until I opened it.

I stumbled upon Is It Just Me? while scrolling through my spiritual library on Kindle. I had downloaded it a while ago, not expecting much but the timing was perfect. It felt like a hug I didn’t know I needed.

Lately, I had been caught up in the noise of self-growth, hustle culture, and the chase for wealth all without even noticing how far I’d drifted from God. Honestly, I didn’t even realize I was distant. I thought I was fine. I thought I was building the life I wanted: one of success, independence, ambition. But something always felt a little off.

I used to think that following God meant shrinking like being spiritual and successful couldn't exist in the same space. I believed that if I let God in, I’d have to give up my dreams, my voice, or my ambition. That He’d want me to be small.

But this book reminded me of the truth: God doesn’t ask us to shrink He calls us to live boldly with Him. Grace’s words were relatable, honest, and full of warmth. It’s not a book about money or success it’s about identity, about feeling lost in the noise, and realizing that we’re already loved. It helped me see God differently not as someone who wants to control or limit me, but Someone who loves me as I am and walks with me wherever I go.

As a college student myself, I appreciated how real Grace was. She didn’t pretend to have it all figured out, and that made the message even more powerful.

If you're feeling distant from God or even if you’re not sure what’s missing read this book. Especially if you’ve been chasing a version of success that feels empty. It may not give you all the answers, but it’ll hold your heart while you ask the questions.

Thank you, Grace. This book was a hug to my soul.

[Katy Gibralter · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this book! I thought it was awesome. I will say that I read this on the plane and I didn’t have anything to write with. I wish I would’ve sat down and done the “real talk” sections at the end of each chapter as I was reading. I think that would’ve helped me process all of the information.

I will definitely be going back and journaling through this book! I highly recommend doing that as you’re reading instead of just reading it through. This would be a great Bible study for college girls as well!! A lot of those “real talk” sections can be used as discussion instead of just answering them yourself in your journal! Highly recommending this!

The only reason it’s not a 5 star is because of my previous update where I explain how some sections feel repetitive in phrases or lessons.

Otherwise I loved this!! I loved how much scripture was used! Grace Valentine truly feels like she’s your best friend while reading!! Absolutely adored this book!!

[Suzi Russell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Took way too long to finally finish this book but it was worth it. Each chapter was convicting and made me think about who I am and just life and my faith and other deep things. The biggest takeaway was that I’m not alone (and neither are you!!). It’s not just me struggling with certain things like loneliness or people pleasing or hurt or learning how to be an adult! God is with me through all. of. it. Praise God! And I also have a wonderful community of friends and family who support and encourage me through everything…even when I mess up. Cause I’m not perfect and I’ve also learned that I don’t have to be. (I could go on an write a whole book about what I’ve learned from this book…but I won’t ..at least not yet :)) So I can trust God and I do have hope 💛 the author mainly writes to women and college age girls but I still highly recommend!

[Elyse · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 or 3.75
I really appreciated the author’s honesty and insight, but this felt a bit more like other Christian books I have read. I absolutely loved the author’s first book, but unfortunately I didn’t enjoy this book as much. It felt like some of the messages were ones I have heard before (not that repeating them is bad necessarily). I highlighted so much of her first book, while this one only occasionally had a line or two highlighted. This book was still good, but her first book resonated with me quite a bit more.

[Amelia Rose Bell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am sad I finished this book. It was seriously like chatting with a BFF every morning. I used this book as a daily devotional and read a chapter or two a day; because there are reflections at the end of each chapter it felt more like a devo than a sit and read book. It was something I looked forward to every morning. I would highly recommend to any girls (young or young at heart) feeling lost and lonely in adulthood.

It’s relatable and left me feeling less alone in my problems. I can’t wait to read her other books!

[Lydia Campbell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not to be dramatic…but this book has helped shape the way I view myself in God’s image. This book has encouraged me to delve into my Spiritual path with Christ. I now truly enjoy Scripture, pray for my enemies, and realize that I am not alone. Grace Valentine does an EXCELLENT job portraying the fears, anxieties, and doubts most Christians deal with on a daily basis. It is such an outstanding book!!

[Julie Estelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book for 20-somethings looking for guidance and encouragement while going through the "quarter-life-crisis" time of life. While I sometimes felt she explained herself too much for the sake of not offending her readers, her content is excellent and relatable. Her writing is easy to read, and the chapters are short enough to make reading a little at a time possible.

[Lydia Good · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a cute! It gave biblical wisdom to fight certain struggles in our lives but also give practical advice. This book is a short read but is relatable. This book is targeted to readers in their younger 20s or even younger. Anyone older can defiantly still read it! It applies to many situations that have occurred in peoples lives and how Gods word can help us.

[Angel Hill · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author of this book did not shy away from adding humor into the pages. This book would be great for any women 18-35. I love thah through her stories she applied it back to the bible and what God taught her. I felt like during this read, the author was a close girlfriend, and we were just having serious conversations about life and where God is in the midst of all of it.

[Lizbeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think we ought to read this book at least once. Specially if you’re a teen or a young adult who is still figuring out the whole adulting side of life. It’s the perfect book to reflect on life and realise you’re not alone amongst many other things but most importantly it encourages to get closer to God and be more patient with yourself.

[Carlin Dougherty · Rating 4 out of 5]

Grace Valentine makes you feel like you’re talking about Jesus with your best friend over coffee! She is funny, wise, relatable, and inspirational. With Bible teachings, real life experiences, and fun anecdotes, Valentine encourages readers to trust God more and worry about others less.