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Rest, Girl: A Journey from Exhausted and Stressed to Entirely Blessed
If you’re overwhelmed and exhausted. . .
If you’ve ever thought that all you need to do is try harder. . .
If you’ve ever felt unappreciated or overlooked. . .
If you’ve found Jesus or you’re still searching. . .
Your Heavenly Father Invites You to Rest, Girl.
***
Female readers of all ages will find a sassy, funny, authentic, and encouraging friend in master word weaver Jami Amerine, as she comes alongside you to share God’s overwhelming grace and peace in an inside-out journey to true, life-sustaining rest. In a climate that is steeped in stress and worries, this book offers a priceless opportunity to walk in faith to experience the overwhelming blessing of a mind, spirit, and body at rest. Jami will lead you on a humorous, engaging and life-altering journey from restrictions and unrealistic expectations to the unconditional love of the Father.
If you’ve ever thought that all you need to do is try harder. . .
If you’ve ever felt unappreciated or overlooked. . .
If you’ve found Jesus or you’re still searching. . .
Your Heavenly Father Invites You to Rest, Girl.
***
Female readers of all ages will find a sassy, funny, authentic, and encouraging friend in master word weaver Jami Amerine, as she comes alongside you to share God’s overwhelming grace and peace in an inside-out journey to true, life-sustaining rest. In a climate that is steeped in stress and worries, this book offers a priceless opportunity to walk in faith to experience the overwhelming blessing of a mind, spirit, and body at rest. Jami will lead you on a humorous, engaging and life-altering journey from restrictions and unrealistic expectations to the unconditional love of the Father.
- GenresNonfictionChristian
256 pages, Paperback
Published October 31, 2021
23 people are currently reading
2196 people want to read
About the author
Jami Amerine
25 books109 followersI am a wife to Justin, and mother to Maggie, John, Luke, Sophie, Sam, and Charlie. We are on a reprieve from foster care as we recover from the removal of a long-term placement. My husband Justin and I have a ranch near our home and we love to travel and “just be.” However, we recently relocated to the North Houston.
I have a Master’s Degree in Education, Counseling, and Human Development, but don’t let that fool you, I am not sure how I pulled that off. I also have an undergraduate degree in Family and Consumer Sciences (yeah, Home Ec.). I can cook anything, but don’t ask me to sew.
I love sharing the stories that take place in these halls where I fully embrace the Lord’s presence… He wanders around, stepping in juice puddles and stepping over laundry. I love Him, but more, I like Him. I also believe the GOOD NEWS is just Jesus. I am not here to explain Him to you. He wants to know you – but that is between you and Him. I tell tales of my adventures with Him, as He is mine.
I have a Master’s Degree in Education, Counseling, and Human Development, but don’t let that fool you, I am not sure how I pulled that off. I also have an undergraduate degree in Family and Consumer Sciences (yeah, Home Ec.). I can cook anything, but don’t ask me to sew.
I love sharing the stories that take place in these halls where I fully embrace the Lord’s presence… He wanders around, stepping in juice puddles and stepping over laundry. I love Him, but more, I like Him. I also believe the GOOD NEWS is just Jesus. I am not here to explain Him to you. He wants to know you – but that is between you and Him. I tell tales of my adventures with Him, as He is mine.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
November 15, 2021
As a Christian woman, I really enjoyed this book. It is well written with hard truths, relatable stories and scriptures to back up her thoughts. Some may say it kind of comes across as preachy, but I think it’s more teachy than that. I and not heard of the author before despite her having several books already, but I will be looking for them as well because I did get a lot from this one.
Women are meant to have it all, do it all and be it all in our society, and that is just plain exhausting. This book gives you ways and means to seek peace and rest from within by leaning on the truths and Word of God to strengthen your heart and soul. It was refreshing to read some of her stories because not only were they real but they were funny. I enjoyed her sense of humor and the way she used it to make her points was spot on. My fav thing I took from it was the SHIFT method, which I am planning on incorporating into my life and my beliefs. This is a fairly quick read and I got a lot out of it.
Thanks to Barbour Books and Netgalley for this Arc in exchange for my review.
Women are meant to have it all, do it all and be it all in our society, and that is just plain exhausting. This book gives you ways and means to seek peace and rest from within by leaning on the truths and Word of God to strengthen your heart and soul. It was refreshing to read some of her stories because not only were they real but they were funny. I enjoyed her sense of humor and the way she used it to make her points was spot on. My fav thing I took from it was the SHIFT method, which I am planning on incorporating into my life and my beliefs. This is a fairly quick read and I got a lot out of it.
Thanks to Barbour Books and Netgalley for this Arc in exchange for my review.
July 11, 2022
If you’re overwhelmed and exhausted. . .
If you’ve ever thought that all you need to do is try harder. . .
If you’ve ever felt unappreciated or overlooked. . .
If you’ve found Jesus or you’re still searching. . .
Your Heavenly Father Invites You to Rest, Girl.
This is so much what I received from this book from Jami Amerine. First I’ve read from her and I really liked it. So many women need to rest in Jesus in this world. So much goes on in our lives and we need someone to encourage us to not worry ourselves with everything. Give it all to Jesus and Rest in Him. There’s so much more in her book and writing, but this is what I needed and collected from it. Thank you #NetGalley and the publishers for the opportunity to read and review #RestGirl with my honest thoughts and opinions.
If you’ve ever thought that all you need to do is try harder. . .
If you’ve ever felt unappreciated or overlooked. . .
If you’ve found Jesus or you’re still searching. . .
Your Heavenly Father Invites You to Rest, Girl.
This is so much what I received from this book from Jami Amerine. First I’ve read from her and I really liked it. So many women need to rest in Jesus in this world. So much goes on in our lives and we need someone to encourage us to not worry ourselves with everything. Give it all to Jesus and Rest in Him. There’s so much more in her book and writing, but this is what I needed and collected from it. Thank you #NetGalley and the publishers for the opportunity to read and review #RestGirl with my honest thoughts and opinions.
October 13, 2021
This book is a very religiously based book. The book gives thoughts on how to help you cope with being stressed and overwhelmed. I think we have all had these times in our lives and could use some thoughts and suggestions as to how best to overcome these feelings. She talks of personal experiences using humor, faith and grace to help pull us out of the mire.
She talks of Christ's miracles and asks the question: Do you believe? The need for faith is one of the thoughts that really spoke to me from this book. It is a thought provoking book that could help those whose lives are stressed and need uplifting.
I enjoyed the book and it gave me some things to ponder and consider for my life.
I received a copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review. All thoughts are my own.
She talks of Christ's miracles and asks the question: Do you believe? The need for faith is one of the thoughts that really spoke to me from this book. It is a thought provoking book that could help those whose lives are stressed and need uplifting.
I enjoyed the book and it gave me some things to ponder and consider for my life.
I received a copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review. All thoughts are my own.
November 1, 2021
Rest, Girl by Jami Amerine
A Journey from Exhausted and Stressed to Entirely Blessed
If you’re overwhelmed and exhausted. . .
If you’ve ever thought that all you need to do is try harder. . .
If you’ve ever felt unappreciated or overlooked. . .
If you’ve found Jesus or you’re still searching. . .
Your Heavenly Father Invites You to Rest, Girl.
Female readers of all ages will find a sassy, funny, authentic, and encouraging friend in master word weaver Jami Amerine, as she comes alongside you to share God’s overwhelming grace and peace in an inside-out journey to true, life-sustaining rest. In a climate that is steeped in stress and worries, this book offers a priceless opportunity to walk in faith to experience the overwhelming blessing of a mind, spirit, and body at rest. Jami will lead you on a humorous, engaging and life-altering journey from restrictions and unrealistic expectations to the unconditional love of the Father.
I recommend reading.
Rest, Girl by Jami Amerine is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Jami Amerine.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
A Journey from Exhausted and Stressed to Entirely Blessed
If you’re overwhelmed and exhausted. . .
If you’ve ever thought that all you need to do is try harder. . .
If you’ve ever felt unappreciated or overlooked. . .
If you’ve found Jesus or you’re still searching. . .
Your Heavenly Father Invites You to Rest, Girl.
Female readers of all ages will find a sassy, funny, authentic, and encouraging friend in master word weaver Jami Amerine, as she comes alongside you to share God’s overwhelming grace and peace in an inside-out journey to true, life-sustaining rest. In a climate that is steeped in stress and worries, this book offers a priceless opportunity to walk in faith to experience the overwhelming blessing of a mind, spirit, and body at rest. Jami will lead you on a humorous, engaging and life-altering journey from restrictions and unrealistic expectations to the unconditional love of the Father.
I recommend reading.
Rest, Girl by Jami Amerine is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Jami Amerine.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
December 29, 2021
As Americans, we live in a world of convenience and speed. Our lives are often filled with so many activities that we are rushing from one to the other without taking time for ourselves, and that constant activity (not to mention the state of the world the past couple of year) can lead to stress.
In Rest, Girl, Jami Amerine gives readers a peek into her life and what she’s learned about true rest the past couple of years. With humor and truth, Armine teaches readers about the power of changing your thinking and learning to shift the RAS response that often leads us to negative thoughts.
While repetitive at times (some of us need that to get the lessons through our heads), the book has good insights, wonderful examples—those with Amerine’s children stood out to me most. Faith like a child—and practical advice, Rest, Girl is one read that will encourage you to look at the stressors in life a different way.
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.
In Rest, Girl, Jami Amerine gives readers a peek into her life and what she’s learned about true rest the past couple of years. With humor and truth, Armine teaches readers about the power of changing your thinking and learning to shift the RAS response that often leads us to negative thoughts.
While repetitive at times (some of us need that to get the lessons through our heads), the book has good insights, wonderful examples—those with Amerine’s children stood out to me most. Faith like a child—and practical advice, Rest, Girl is one read that will encourage you to look at the stressors in life a different way.
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.
May 5, 2022
Rating: 5 Stars!!
Review:
Thank you to Barbour Review Crew for picking me to receive this FREE ARC COPY to review for them last year!! This was my 2nd time reading a book by Jami and i have to saw she is definately becoming my NEW Favorite Self-Help Author.
This book was so informative about feeling Exhausted and Stressed when Daily Life becomes overwhelming.
I thought it was very well written with helpful sections especially Chapter 4 about Death and Grief since i lost my dad 5 1/2 months ago so im still dealing with Grief and understanding the emotions that come with it so this part of the book were VERY Informative to me especially the part about writing down in a Journal about putting it on paper over in your head.
Overall a Phenomenal Non-Fiction/Self-Help book by Jami!! Can't wait to read more by her in the future!!
Review:
Thank you to Barbour Review Crew for picking me to receive this FREE ARC COPY to review for them last year!! This was my 2nd time reading a book by Jami and i have to saw she is definately becoming my NEW Favorite Self-Help Author.
This book was so informative about feeling Exhausted and Stressed when Daily Life becomes overwhelming.
I thought it was very well written with helpful sections especially Chapter 4 about Death and Grief since i lost my dad 5 1/2 months ago so im still dealing with Grief and understanding the emotions that come with it so this part of the book were VERY Informative to me especially the part about writing down in a Journal about putting it on paper over in your head.
Overall a Phenomenal Non-Fiction/Self-Help book by Jami!! Can't wait to read more by her in the future!!
November 3, 2021
The author takes a serious subject and peppers it with humor to make it more palatable to swallow and absorb. I loved that she uses her real life experiences to make you feel like she isn’t shoving ideas down your throat. I tend to stress a lot and I pray to move into the blessings God has in store for me. Some things seemed repetitive but it seemed more to stress an important point. All in all I felt it was helpful and I recommend if you need to find rest because of stress. I recommend reading in short spurts instead of all at one time so you can ponder on each chapter.
I received a complimentary copy from Barbour Publishing. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
I received a complimentary copy from Barbour Publishing. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
December 1, 2021
This is the perfect book for me since we have added two kids to our family recently including a newborn. I long for rest and lots of it :) There are many aspects of this book that I enjoy. The main concept was that we can choose fear or love. If we are filled with fear we have no rest. The Bible says that perfect love casts out fear. This is something that I definitely need to work on. I also liked the concept of the gratitude shift and writing down all of the things that I love. I need to continue to fill my mind with Scripture and remember that God is in control.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
February 5, 2025
Rest, Girl was a follow up to her other book Well, Girl. It had a few tips but it was mainly a book about her life and not letting things stress you out. I didn’t find this all that helpful honestly.
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book for my honest opinion.
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book for my honest opinion.
November 27, 2021
It's all about grace. God's grace is the foundation for all our rest. It gives us rest from the struggle to "get it right." This fierce, all-encompassing grace applies to our daily, regular lives and struggles, and provides a practical way forward to live in rest. We have two options: fear and love. And we have the choice in every moment of every day, so it's never too late to start.
This book quenched my thirst at a time when I needed it. I was drawn in by the premise, but was skeptical: it sounds great, but will the book give practical ways to apply the principles it relates? The answer is yes! Amerine shares implementable advice based on her own experience. And as a woman, mother, and professional in the USA, her stresses and anxieties are extremely relatable for me. But you don't have to be those things to be able to apply the lessons Amerine has learned to your own life.
I do have one reservation about the book that I feel is important to include: while grace itself cannot be taken too far, in my opinion, I did not agree with Amerine that her own application of grace to help us stop stressing extends to weight loss. I felt that she came perilously close to saying that Jesus' love will help us lose weight. While I do agree that having a good, stress-free relationship with Jesus and (by extension) life can improve one's self-worth and one's relationship with food, I think we need to be careful to make a distinction between that and actual weight loss.
I do recommend this book for those who are struggling to find rest in life. It is practical and inspirational, humorous and honest, and based in common sense.
I received an advance reader copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This review will also be posted to Amazon, BN.com, and my Instagram account.
This book quenched my thirst at a time when I needed it. I was drawn in by the premise, but was skeptical: it sounds great, but will the book give practical ways to apply the principles it relates? The answer is yes! Amerine shares implementable advice based on her own experience. And as a woman, mother, and professional in the USA, her stresses and anxieties are extremely relatable for me. But you don't have to be those things to be able to apply the lessons Amerine has learned to your own life.
I do have one reservation about the book that I feel is important to include: while grace itself cannot be taken too far, in my opinion, I did not agree with Amerine that her own application of grace to help us stop stressing extends to weight loss. I felt that she came perilously close to saying that Jesus' love will help us lose weight. While I do agree that having a good, stress-free relationship with Jesus and (by extension) life can improve one's self-worth and one's relationship with food, I think we need to be careful to make a distinction between that and actual weight loss.
I do recommend this book for those who are struggling to find rest in life. It is practical and inspirational, humorous and honest, and based in common sense.
I received an advance reader copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This review will also be posted to Amazon, BN.com, and my Instagram account.
October 7, 2021
Rest, Girl
A Journey from Exhausted and Stressed to Entirely Blessed
by Jami Amerine
Pub Date 01 Nov 2021 | Archive Date 01 Jan 2022
Barbour Publishing, Inc., Barbour Books
Christian
I am reviewing a copy of Rest, Girl through Barbour Books and NetGalley:
Rest, Girl is for all the women who have ever felt overwhelmed and exhausted, for those who felt as if they were not trying hard enough. For the women who have ever felt felt unappreciated or overlooked. . .
If you’ve found Jesus or you’re still searching. .
Your Heavenly Father Invites You to Rest, Girl.
Rest, Girl is at times Sassy, funny as well as authentic . Reading Rest Girl will feel like you are talking to a encouraging friend. Jami Amerine Jami Amerine, as she comes alongside you to share God’s overwhelming grace and peace in an inside-out journey to true, life-sustaining rest. In a time and climate that is full of worries and overwhelming stress this book offers a priceless opportunity to walk in faith to experience the overwhelming blessing of a mind, spirit, and body at rest. Jami will lead you on a humorous, engaging and life-altering journey from restrictions and unrealistic expectations to the unconditional love of the Father.
I give Rest Girl five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
April 25, 2022
I like Jami Amerine. I think she’s funny, sincere, transparent & thoughtful; add to that a very talented artist. I first came across her when she was a guest on Jen Hatmaker’s podcast a long while ago. I have purchased several of her paintings & I’ve read one of her previous books, “Stolen Jesus” which is a read I *highly* recommend.
I follow her on FB, but haven’t read much of her blog. But after finally getting through “Rest, Girl”, I feel like that’s what I just read; a few blog posts. As well, I did not feel an ounce of rest while trudging through it.
And it’s unfortunate because I have no doubt, that with a *much* better editor & more verbal processing during the writing process itself, this book would have been a much more enjoyable read. Not to mention, the reader would have a firmer understanding of what Jami was trying to convey.
I can’t really recommend it, simply because it’s just too simplistic. The writing felt stunted, rushed, shallow. The editing - horrible. Even the way the book felt in my hand was not the quality or the typeset of her “Stolen Jesus” book; unnecessary large font, terrible binding. Just not what I would expect for a 5th book from an accomplished author.
I absolutely plan to read “Sacred Ground, Sticky Floors” as I very much want to know more of Jami’s experience with parenting, knowing she is also an adoptive parent with fostering experience. So while my rating is low, I do highly recommend discovering more about Jami. Go to her Etsy store, read her previous books. And I’m hopeful that there is more to come from Jami.
I follow her on FB, but haven’t read much of her blog. But after finally getting through “Rest, Girl”, I feel like that’s what I just read; a few blog posts. As well, I did not feel an ounce of rest while trudging through it.
And it’s unfortunate because I have no doubt, that with a *much* better editor & more verbal processing during the writing process itself, this book would have been a much more enjoyable read. Not to mention, the reader would have a firmer understanding of what Jami was trying to convey.
I can’t really recommend it, simply because it’s just too simplistic. The writing felt stunted, rushed, shallow. The editing - horrible. Even the way the book felt in my hand was not the quality or the typeset of her “Stolen Jesus” book; unnecessary large font, terrible binding. Just not what I would expect for a 5th book from an accomplished author.
I absolutely plan to read “Sacred Ground, Sticky Floors” as I very much want to know more of Jami’s experience with parenting, knowing she is also an adoptive parent with fostering experience. So while my rating is low, I do highly recommend discovering more about Jami. Go to her Etsy store, read her previous books. And I’m hopeful that there is more to come from Jami.
November 11, 2021
I once again ignored the advice to "don't judge a book by its cover." I hoped that the inside content would be as inspiring and beautiful to my heart as the outside cover was to my eyes. It didn't. There were several good nuggets, mostly about the RAS subsconscious, but they were mixed in with so many half-truths, opinions, and even implications toward possible heresies that I can't recommend this book to anyone.
If I were the content editor for this book, I would be ashamed. The introduction and especially the conclusion were not clear at all. The first chapters were way too much information about her pregnancies and personal struggles -- not related to the problem of unrest, in my opinion. She wasn't setting herself up as someone who I can relate to as going through the same things I do, nor did she set herself up as someone I wanted to emulate, as she admitted early on that one of her sons lives in a Buddhist ashram and has "real peace" without believing in Jesus.
It wasn't organized very well; it was very rambling. The thesis didn't even come until p. 25. It's really supposed to be against fear, but many of the chapters didn't touch on this. I have no idea what the difference was supposed to be between the two sections. And though she said it was the "most 'teach-y' book" she has ever written, I wouldn't call it informational or academic in any way. There were very few Scripture verses to back most of it up, too.
It focused mostly on how to change your subconscious by telling yourself positive affirmations out loud. But then it got into what I felt was "name it and claim it" prosperity gospel kind of stuff. It didn't give any room for trusting that our Heavenly Father knows what's best for us -- it was all about thanking Him for what we want "in faith" before we get it, expecting Him to get it all for us. I don't think she would agree with how I put this, but she didn't refute any of it. And Chapter 10 focused on the energy but not the God behind the energy of love. She kept saying how she didn't want to sound New Age-y, but she did.
Favorite quotes:
"But might I suggest that more than restless nights and busy schedules, the source of exhaustion has more to do with our deep-seated beliefs and our mindset based on those well-intended beliefs? And fear. Fear is the ultimate thief of real rest." (p. 25)
"But in the past, I had read the Bible through the shadowy vision of condemnation." (p. 34)
"...bad things happen, and Jesus is not the author of tragedy." (p. 54)
"Yes, we have the hope of eternity, but that hope does not mean we are prohibited from grieving." (p. 59)
"Peter's love for Jesus gave Him the ability to walk on water. Peter's fear of drowning was what sunk him." (p. 63)
“Forgiveness brings rest.” (p. 74)
“When you are focused on hate and fear, you are tormented by hate and fear. When you are focused on whatever is good, pure, and holy, you are finally at rest.” (p. 102)
“It is time to implement love into every aspect of your life until your RAS is continually nagging the subconscious to spy love in everything.” (p. 121)
“A 'love' that does something self-serving, manipulative, or painful is fear masquerading as love.” (p. 141)
“There is only room for one God in our hearts... When He is justly seated above all else, I am at rest.” (p. 143)
“...if your unrest is associated with sour beliefs, and that old mind created some of the problems you are now facing, a new way of thinking is the key to solving them. That thinking starts and ends with gratitude.” (p. 158)
“The truth is when we are in want and lack, we are in a state of idol worship.” (p. 168)
(I received a copy for free from the publisher. I was not compensated for this review. All opinions are my own, as was the decision to write this review.)
If I were the content editor for this book, I would be ashamed. The introduction and especially the conclusion were not clear at all. The first chapters were way too much information about her pregnancies and personal struggles -- not related to the problem of unrest, in my opinion. She wasn't setting herself up as someone who I can relate to as going through the same things I do, nor did she set herself up as someone I wanted to emulate, as she admitted early on that one of her sons lives in a Buddhist ashram and has "real peace" without believing in Jesus.
It wasn't organized very well; it was very rambling. The thesis didn't even come until p. 25. It's really supposed to be against fear, but many of the chapters didn't touch on this. I have no idea what the difference was supposed to be between the two sections. And though she said it was the "most 'teach-y' book" she has ever written, I wouldn't call it informational or academic in any way. There were very few Scripture verses to back most of it up, too.
It focused mostly on how to change your subconscious by telling yourself positive affirmations out loud. But then it got into what I felt was "name it and claim it" prosperity gospel kind of stuff. It didn't give any room for trusting that our Heavenly Father knows what's best for us -- it was all about thanking Him for what we want "in faith" before we get it, expecting Him to get it all for us. I don't think she would agree with how I put this, but she didn't refute any of it. And Chapter 10 focused on the energy but not the God behind the energy of love. She kept saying how she didn't want to sound New Age-y, but she did.
Favorite quotes:
"But might I suggest that more than restless nights and busy schedules, the source of exhaustion has more to do with our deep-seated beliefs and our mindset based on those well-intended beliefs? And fear. Fear is the ultimate thief of real rest." (p. 25)
"But in the past, I had read the Bible through the shadowy vision of condemnation." (p. 34)
"...bad things happen, and Jesus is not the author of tragedy." (p. 54)
"Yes, we have the hope of eternity, but that hope does not mean we are prohibited from grieving." (p. 59)
"Peter's love for Jesus gave Him the ability to walk on water. Peter's fear of drowning was what sunk him." (p. 63)
“Forgiveness brings rest.” (p. 74)
“When you are focused on hate and fear, you are tormented by hate and fear. When you are focused on whatever is good, pure, and holy, you are finally at rest.” (p. 102)
“It is time to implement love into every aspect of your life until your RAS is continually nagging the subconscious to spy love in everything.” (p. 121)
“A 'love' that does something self-serving, manipulative, or painful is fear masquerading as love.” (p. 141)
“There is only room for one God in our hearts... When He is justly seated above all else, I am at rest.” (p. 143)
“...if your unrest is associated with sour beliefs, and that old mind created some of the problems you are now facing, a new way of thinking is the key to solving them. That thinking starts and ends with gratitude.” (p. 158)
“The truth is when we are in want and lack, we are in a state of idol worship.” (p. 168)
(I received a copy for free from the publisher. I was not compensated for this review. All opinions are my own, as was the decision to write this review.)
January 18, 2022
So, I might be the next giveaway reviewer who ends up getting mentioned in a book. While that reviewer wasn't named and it was an example of changed thinking, I have to say I found it in poor taste that the author put down someone who took the time to give feedback on a promotional book. Some people will be critical to just be critical, I put my likes and dislikes down in what I hope is a thoughtful manner so that the author can either improve the book (depending on release date) or future books.
To me this book was repetitive. While the topic of each chapter "slightly" changed, there wasn't enough change between some of them to warrant considering it a change. If there wasn't going to be bigger changes, perhaps 30 to 31 shorter chapters could have been used so that it could be a month-long devotional book, with each day covering a shorter amount of material.
I disagreed mildly with a few theological stances of the author, but this isn't a huge issue for me as I read religious books from authors that have a lot of varying theological stances. It always gives the reader a chance to look at their own stances and see if they are too narrow, too strict or too broad. However, on a few occasions, the author seemed dismissive of those who hold other theological viewpoints.
The author continually referenced stories from her other books, often stories about her children. As this is the first book from this author that I have read, I had no context for those areas of the book. If you don't want to repeat the story, don't put a vague reference to it in the book assuming that your readers have already heard the story and will understand how it applies to the chapter.
Overall, I had some trouble getting into the book. I have been struggling with my faith-walk lately, largely in part to church closures during the pandemic and my old "home church" stance on mitigation measures. I have read numerous devotional books during this time because I want to stay close to God, I want to find ways to fix my walk with God, to make it fruitful again, to be "fed" so that I have the strength and desire to try to find another community to worship with instead of continuing to try to do it on my own, just God and me. I cannot say that this book helped my struggle any, since I couldn't get into the book well, a lot didn't resonate with either my heart or my mind.
For those who read this review: when I read a book such as this, I take notes on the book. I copy down any devotional questions or guides (the Rest, Girl Reflections and Dream Journaling Questions were pretty pointless in my opinion, the chapters went deeper). I note things that I want to remember. I take notes on the Scriptures referenced. After I have read the book, I then type the notes into my computer so that I can go back and find information on Scriptures and topics when I need to from all of the devo books I have read. Even doing this, this book still didn't make a huge impression, I cannot tell you one thing that struck me to the point that I currently remember it well enough to implement it and I just finished the book this morning.
To me this book was repetitive. While the topic of each chapter "slightly" changed, there wasn't enough change between some of them to warrant considering it a change. If there wasn't going to be bigger changes, perhaps 30 to 31 shorter chapters could have been used so that it could be a month-long devotional book, with each day covering a shorter amount of material.
I disagreed mildly with a few theological stances of the author, but this isn't a huge issue for me as I read religious books from authors that have a lot of varying theological stances. It always gives the reader a chance to look at their own stances and see if they are too narrow, too strict or too broad. However, on a few occasions, the author seemed dismissive of those who hold other theological viewpoints.
The author continually referenced stories from her other books, often stories about her children. As this is the first book from this author that I have read, I had no context for those areas of the book. If you don't want to repeat the story, don't put a vague reference to it in the book assuming that your readers have already heard the story and will understand how it applies to the chapter.
Overall, I had some trouble getting into the book. I have been struggling with my faith-walk lately, largely in part to church closures during the pandemic and my old "home church" stance on mitigation measures. I have read numerous devotional books during this time because I want to stay close to God, I want to find ways to fix my walk with God, to make it fruitful again, to be "fed" so that I have the strength and desire to try to find another community to worship with instead of continuing to try to do it on my own, just God and me. I cannot say that this book helped my struggle any, since I couldn't get into the book well, a lot didn't resonate with either my heart or my mind.
For those who read this review: when I read a book such as this, I take notes on the book. I copy down any devotional questions or guides (the Rest, Girl Reflections and Dream Journaling Questions were pretty pointless in my opinion, the chapters went deeper). I note things that I want to remember. I take notes on the Scriptures referenced. After I have read the book, I then type the notes into my computer so that I can go back and find information on Scriptures and topics when I need to from all of the devo books I have read. Even doing this, this book still didn't make a huge impression, I cannot tell you one thing that struck me to the point that I currently remember it well enough to implement it and I just finished the book this morning.
March 19, 2022
"The habitual practice of unrest is keeping us from progressing because we are stuck in memory replay of past experiences or past imagined memories instead of creating new hopes and believing in the best God has outlined for us."
I bookmarked SO many pages in this book. Overall, the message really resonated with me. Fear can definitely take away our ability to rest. Our attitude impacts how we perceive life. God did not intend for us to live stuck in our circumstances. He wants us to freely trust Him.
This book contains so many Scriptural references. Considering I feel that we can only rest in Jesus, this message makes for a solid foundation. While I would not say that I learned any new insights into the Bible, I did appreciate the reminders of truth. We need to hold on to what God says.
The author likes to share a lot of stories. Almost of them were relatable. A few of them did seem to go a bit off topic. If you enjoy anecdotal experiences, this part of the book will appeal to you.
In so many ways, I appreciate the positivity of her messages. Gratitude does change your life. Noting what you love does make a difference.
My only slight struggle - it is almost straddling the border of the potentially problematic name it/claim it philosophy. I think she tries hard to explain that certain situations are very tough. But it is easy to drift into the expectation that God's will is always for us to have happiness and to never learn through hurt.
This is the second book I have read by this author. I would definitely be willing to read more the of her titles. I do really get the sense that she seeks God with her writing. Her messages are biblically based.
I did take my time in reading this book as there was a lot to absorb. While the text is not complicated, there is a lot to think about. My overall rating is 4.7 due to some of the wandering and maybe a touch of uncertainty about part of the philosophy. But since this is a book that I would read again to reference as well as recommend, I think it deserves to be rounded to a five-star rating.
I read this book through NetGalley. I wanted to read and review it. All opinions are my own.
I bookmarked SO many pages in this book. Overall, the message really resonated with me. Fear can definitely take away our ability to rest. Our attitude impacts how we perceive life. God did not intend for us to live stuck in our circumstances. He wants us to freely trust Him.
This book contains so many Scriptural references. Considering I feel that we can only rest in Jesus, this message makes for a solid foundation. While I would not say that I learned any new insights into the Bible, I did appreciate the reminders of truth. We need to hold on to what God says.
The author likes to share a lot of stories. Almost of them were relatable. A few of them did seem to go a bit off topic. If you enjoy anecdotal experiences, this part of the book will appeal to you.
In so many ways, I appreciate the positivity of her messages. Gratitude does change your life. Noting what you love does make a difference.
My only slight struggle - it is almost straddling the border of the potentially problematic name it/claim it philosophy. I think she tries hard to explain that certain situations are very tough. But it is easy to drift into the expectation that God's will is always for us to have happiness and to never learn through hurt.
This is the second book I have read by this author. I would definitely be willing to read more the of her titles. I do really get the sense that she seeks God with her writing. Her messages are biblically based.
I did take my time in reading this book as there was a lot to absorb. While the text is not complicated, there is a lot to think about. My overall rating is 4.7 due to some of the wandering and maybe a touch of uncertainty about part of the philosophy. But since this is a book that I would read again to reference as well as recommend, I think it deserves to be rounded to a five-star rating.
I read this book through NetGalley. I wanted to read and review it. All opinions are my own.
November 12, 2021
Women of all ages find themselves overwhelmed by their to-do lists and struggle to find rest and peace. And yet the Bible promises us that rest and peace through Jesus. Why do we not feel rested? Author Jami Amerine knows that struggle well, and through sharing her personal experiences and insights from Scripture, she empathizes and encourages readers in this book.
In Part One, she presents the dilemma we have and some wisdom about where we may be disconnected. We know we should have peace, we say we trust God; and yet we don't experience peace. Jami shows how that's often due to our subconscious mind not being in sync with our conscious desire to trust, and she offers encouragement and advice on how to retrain our minds to a more positive and faith-filled perception of the things that stress us out. A bit of practical how-to in "taking every thought captive" and being "transformed by the renewing of our minds" as Paul teaches (2 Corinthians 10:5; Romans 12:2).
Part Two offers many more personal stories and encouragement to choose love over fear, offer forgiveness, practice gratitude, and train ourselves to believe God's promises. Jami shares many stories from her own experiences and journey that are often humorous and relatable. The advice is sometimes challenging, but it's also practical and real, and may just be the thought-provoking challenge needed to point you in the right direction.
Each chapter begins with Scripture and ends with a "Rest Girl Reflection" that summarizes the main ideas of the chapter, inviting you to pose some probing questions to yourself as you consider. At the end of each chapter there is also a prompt and space to do a little journaling about the ideas shared.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
In Part One, she presents the dilemma we have and some wisdom about where we may be disconnected. We know we should have peace, we say we trust God; and yet we don't experience peace. Jami shows how that's often due to our subconscious mind not being in sync with our conscious desire to trust, and she offers encouragement and advice on how to retrain our minds to a more positive and faith-filled perception of the things that stress us out. A bit of practical how-to in "taking every thought captive" and being "transformed by the renewing of our minds" as Paul teaches (2 Corinthians 10:5; Romans 12:2).
Part Two offers many more personal stories and encouragement to choose love over fear, offer forgiveness, practice gratitude, and train ourselves to believe God's promises. Jami shares many stories from her own experiences and journey that are often humorous and relatable. The advice is sometimes challenging, but it's also practical and real, and may just be the thought-provoking challenge needed to point you in the right direction.
Each chapter begins with Scripture and ends with a "Rest Girl Reflection" that summarizes the main ideas of the chapter, inviting you to pose some probing questions to yourself as you consider. At the end of each chapter there is also a prompt and space to do a little journaling about the ideas shared.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
October 23, 2022
Do you need Rest?
Author, speaker, and artist Jami Amerine presents her book "Rest, Girl. A Journey from Exhausted and Stressed to Entirely Blessed", published by Barbour Publishing, Inc. (Barbour Books). The book has two parts: 1) Tossin' and Turnin' with chapters such as "Exhausted", "The Mind Game", or "Sour Grapes" and 2) Dreamy with chapters such as "Hippie Chick", "Brave Girl", or "Never Lost Girl". Amerine starts the chapters with a bible verse but she does not underline statements such as "I am loved and protected" (in chapter 6) with biblical references. At the end of this chapter (chapter 6) she encourages her readers "to take every thought captive" with "I am statements" and a clear understanding a clear understanding of parts of the brain that have been allowed to work against your faith. In my opinion this is only effective if the reflection is Bible-based. She closes the chapters with "Rest, Girl Reflection" and "Dream Journaling" in order to get her readers engaged.
This is the second book by Amerine which I have read (after "Well, Girl"). I appreciate the fact that she is honest about her overwhelm and that she is honest about the fact that she is a people pleaser. I would have appreciated if Amerine would have provided more Bible references for her statements. It is also good to note that there is no bibliography and that there are few references if readers want to dig deeper in to the topic. I recommend this book for women who are feeling overwhelmed and want to start to find a way to change their situation.
The complimentary copy of this book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley free of charge. I was under no obligation to offer a positive review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
#RestGirl #Netgalley
Author, speaker, and artist Jami Amerine presents her book "Rest, Girl. A Journey from Exhausted and Stressed to Entirely Blessed", published by Barbour Publishing, Inc. (Barbour Books). The book has two parts: 1) Tossin' and Turnin' with chapters such as "Exhausted", "The Mind Game", or "Sour Grapes" and 2) Dreamy with chapters such as "Hippie Chick", "Brave Girl", or "Never Lost Girl". Amerine starts the chapters with a bible verse but she does not underline statements such as "I am loved and protected" (in chapter 6) with biblical references. At the end of this chapter (chapter 6) she encourages her readers "to take every thought captive" with "I am statements" and a clear understanding a clear understanding of parts of the brain that have been allowed to work against your faith. In my opinion this is only effective if the reflection is Bible-based. She closes the chapters with "Rest, Girl Reflection" and "Dream Journaling" in order to get her readers engaged.
This is the second book by Amerine which I have read (after "Well, Girl"). I appreciate the fact that she is honest about her overwhelm and that she is honest about the fact that she is a people pleaser. I would have appreciated if Amerine would have provided more Bible references for her statements. It is also good to note that there is no bibliography and that there are few references if readers want to dig deeper in to the topic. I recommend this book for women who are feeling overwhelmed and want to start to find a way to change their situation.
The complimentary copy of this book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley free of charge. I was under no obligation to offer a positive review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
#RestGirl #Netgalley
February 11, 2026
This book surprised me. I enjoyed the humor, candidly stated realities, and Biblical grounding in the Gospel. I will admit that after reading the first chapter, I wasn’t so sure if I should continue reading. The author seemed to be discussing a works-based faith. I did go on to the second chapter and realized where the author was going: We are wearing ourselves out believing we have to work so hard at things that are already done through Christ’s death and resurrection. From there, the book moves into science for how the conscious and subconscious mind works to illustrate tangible ways to stop the unrest. It was at this point, I was hooked and began practicing the concepts the author taught. Real change doesn’t happen with “Just trust the Lord” or even just memorizing Bible verses. It’s learning to balance God’s promises with the “what ifs” that life throws at you each day. Even though I finished reading the book, I am going to spend some time reviewing it and unpacking the information further.
What took away one star? There were points where the author rambled or was redundant. It was at these times where I became disengaged from the discussion at hand because it was the same information repeated or reinforced a point yet again. This didn’t negate the author’s work or her message. For some readers, maybe this isn’t an issue or some just need the assurance or reinforcement.
What took away one star? There were points where the author rambled or was redundant. It was at these times where I became disengaged from the discussion at hand because it was the same information repeated or reinforced a point yet again. This didn’t negate the author’s work or her message. For some readers, maybe this isn’t an issue or some just need the assurance or reinforcement.
November 4, 2021
This was my first time with Jami's work and I truly enjoyed it. After reading just a bit of this book, I had to go grab a notebook knowing I would want to take notes for myself. I have never done that before, but felt like I really needed to start with this book.
At first, I wasn't sure I would be able to connect with this. I can't relate to the hustle life -- I know how to draw a line between work and home. But that isn't what this is entirely about. It's not just rest from the hustle of life. It's rest from stress. Rest from anxiety. Rest from all of the things that sometimes make us forget how awesome our God is and that He has our back. This was just such a wonderful reminder that we have the ability to experience true rest and true peace. I really appreciated how Jami approached this topic and her humor.
I knocked a star because there were times were I felt the same thing was being said in a different way and it got repetitive. Maybe that can help others really understand the ideas here but, for me, it felt unnecessary. Regardless, a great read. This came to me at a much needed time in my life.
Thank you to Barbour Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this!
At first, I wasn't sure I would be able to connect with this. I can't relate to the hustle life -- I know how to draw a line between work and home. But that isn't what this is entirely about. It's not just rest from the hustle of life. It's rest from stress. Rest from anxiety. Rest from all of the things that sometimes make us forget how awesome our God is and that He has our back. This was just such a wonderful reminder that we have the ability to experience true rest and true peace. I really appreciated how Jami approached this topic and her humor.
I knocked a star because there were times were I felt the same thing was being said in a different way and it got repetitive. Maybe that can help others really understand the ideas here but, for me, it felt unnecessary. Regardless, a great read. This came to me at a much needed time in my life.
Thank you to Barbour Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this!
January 11, 2022
Quite honestly, i’m not exactly sure how I should review this book! I am thrilled that it’s loaded with Biblical truths and Scripturally based, but there’s also a significant portion of it that didn’t quite sit right with me and has me questioning whether I agree with Jami’s thoughts. Even though I love the image of God that Jami paints because I believe it’s very close to how God longs for us to see Him, some of the book is borderline prosperity gospel thinking in my opinion. Yes, gratitude has a powerful effect on our lives and how we feel about our lives, but Jami’s advice about believing something and being thankful for something before receiving it is kind of a stretch for me.
I can’t say I would recommend this book because of the things I mentioned above, but I do greatly appreciate that this book reminds us that God’s love is truly unconditional, with no “buts” and there’s nothing we can do to earn our Heavenly Father’s love and approval. I also appreciate Jami’s reminder that all men and women are created on the image of God and one of the best things we can do is to extend grace and remind ourselves that the person who has hurt or offended us is in just as much in need of a Savior as we are….and it’s not our job to be that Savior.
I can’t say I would recommend this book because of the things I mentioned above, but I do greatly appreciate that this book reminds us that God’s love is truly unconditional, with no “buts” and there’s nothing we can do to earn our Heavenly Father’s love and approval. I also appreciate Jami’s reminder that all men and women are created on the image of God and one of the best things we can do is to extend grace and remind ourselves that the person who has hurt or offended us is in just as much in need of a Savior as we are….and it’s not our job to be that Savior.
January 16, 2022
The author walks the reader through her journey of learning to rest, of choosing love and faith and leaving behind fear, exhaustion and stress. This is what drew me to this book because I too want to live from a place of rest and love. To use a quote from the book, “the bulk of this study is about belief and the need to change our beliefs so that we can experience rest”. While I was expecting more of a how to manual, I can appreciate the fact that the author is peeling back the onion to the underlying beliefs that drove our actions and behaviors. This book calls you to place of believing that mountains can be moved.
I like how the author is vulnerable in sharing her struggles and the lessons learned along the way. In this way, she invites the reader to journey alongside her and absorb what life has taught her along the way. My favorite part of the book was the idea of gratitude shifts. While this idea is not new to me, I liked how the author made it more than a practice but also followed through so it changes our feelings which drive our behaviors.
I like how the author is vulnerable in sharing her struggles and the lessons learned along the way. In this way, she invites the reader to journey alongside her and absorb what life has taught her along the way. My favorite part of the book was the idea of gratitude shifts. While this idea is not new to me, I liked how the author made it more than a practice but also followed through so it changes our feelings which drive our behaviors.
November 5, 2021
Author Jami Amerine offers practical advice and spiritual insights in her newest book, and she uses humor and personal experiences to share her journey of discovery. In her introduction to 'Rest, Girl', she admits that even though she believed that God could, she often had doubts that He would. As a young mother, Amerine struggled with stress and fatigue until she realized that "fear is the ultimate thief of real rest". Freedom from fear granted her peace and joy, but first she had to encounter true Grace and fully understand that there was nothing she could do to earn God's love.
Stress, fatigue, and fear certainly have no age limits, and Rest, Girl is perfect for women in all stages of life. I recommend this enlightening and encouraging book!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review. These are my own thoughts.
Stress, fatigue, and fear certainly have no age limits, and Rest, Girl is perfect for women in all stages of life. I recommend this enlightening and encouraging book!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review. These are my own thoughts.
November 5, 2021
Jami Amerine's latest book, "Rest, Girl," reads more like a diary as she grows and gains insight into this thing all humans crave - rest. As a follower of Christ, Jami offers her insights with humor and backed up with scripture. At first I will admit I had a difficult time getting into reading this book. However, with God's grace and mercy I started to see the bigger picture in what the author was trying to tell me, her audience. I loved her statement, "What will you choose, love or fear?" Followed by "You can not give to others what you do not possess (p.142)." My job is to love and not judge. Wow!! This book surely came to me at a perfect time with all the topsy -turvy occurring in our world day. So take the challenge: pick up this book and read it with an open heart. Maybe, just maybe, you will be transformed, finding rest!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
February 22, 2023
This book was exhausting for me to read. I have never before felt so overwhelmed by the apparent unrest of an author as I did reading this book. It seemed disjointed and like many parts were just rambling peppered with witty phrases. I lament the fact that this author used “buzz words” as titles for the book itself as well as various chapters, which raised my expectations only to be further disappointed. It also seemed like the author was trying to convince herself she was restful. The point - to rest - totally missed me. I found the tone of the author quite matter-of-fact and felt like she pontificated quite a bit. That said, I do like the author on a personal level and chuckled to myself during a few personal stories she told. This book was simply not for me.
I cannot recommend this book to anyone seeking rest as it will very likely make you feel as it made me feel - tired and exhausted of hearing complaints and negative views of the world.
I cannot recommend this book to anyone seeking rest as it will very likely make you feel as it made me feel - tired and exhausted of hearing complaints and negative views of the world.
December 31, 2021
What an incredible book to start reading for the New Year. I loved how Jami Amerine takes her readers on a journey of faith using her own life as an example. She is raw, real, open and quite humorous as she guides one through what real faith and trust can look like. Is she perfect? No, but she is sure a real person facing real issues in the real world, not striving to be perfect in our world, but knowing she is loved in His world. This book was like sitting down with a good friend, baring souls and consulting scripture to help us on our journey of faith. I have learned so much and I feel like a weight has been lifted off my weary shoulders. I think this is the perfect book for us not so perfect women in todays society. A huge thank you to Barbour Publishing for an advanced readers copy to read and review.
October 28, 2021
Life is crazy busy for most people, and rest is likely something we all need in our lives. It's sassy, fun, and authentic. The author gives readers her thoughts on coping when you feel stressed and overwhelmed. Amerine includes her own personal experiences, which add humor to the seriousness, to make this a book that will likely resonate with many readers. The religious element is consistent throughout, and the author asks a number of thought-provoking questions. I do wish that instead of just referencing verses that the verses were actually included, as I don't always read with my Bible nearby.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy, but I wasn't required to leave a positive review.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy, but I wasn't required to leave a positive review.
November 15, 2021
Yet again, my good friend, Jami, reminds me of something very important. If we claim to believe in a Savior, why am I so tired?!?
Jami connects Scripture with what psychology has discovered in people with anxiety. Jami’s suggestions are right on point with what knowledgeable mental health professionals suggest. However, Jami’s suggestions are easy to understand and implement-even if you’re not interested in therapy. And, of course, it wouldn’t be a Jami book if it didn’t have some humor and personal testimony.
I’m thankful for Jami’s journey, her vulnerability, and her encouragement. I hope you can appreciate these things, too!
Jami connects Scripture with what psychology has discovered in people with anxiety. Jami’s suggestions are right on point with what knowledgeable mental health professionals suggest. However, Jami’s suggestions are easy to understand and implement-even if you’re not interested in therapy. And, of course, it wouldn’t be a Jami book if it didn’t have some humor and personal testimony.
I’m thankful for Jami’s journey, her vulnerability, and her encouragement. I hope you can appreciate these things, too!
October 23, 2021
Jami Amerine gives us many wise words on dealing with feeling exhausted, rushed, stressed.
She expresses her ideas in a sassy, amusing way, sharing some of her personal experiences.
I felt that many of the ideas she expressed were repetitive and was glad to come to the end of the book. This was not a book that really held my interest, nor would I probably recommend it to others.
I received an advanced copy of this book from Barbour Publishing. The opinions expressed are my own.
She expresses her ideas in a sassy, amusing way, sharing some of her personal experiences.
I felt that many of the ideas she expressed were repetitive and was glad to come to the end of the book. This was not a book that really held my interest, nor would I probably recommend it to others.
I received an advanced copy of this book from Barbour Publishing. The opinions expressed are my own.
November 21, 2021
Still processing
I finished this book a few days ago and I’m not done processing yet, which is making it hard to write this review.
It challenged me. In a good but hard way.
I’m very thankful for this book and will continue to ponder the things I read.
It had this author’s usual humor and writing style but was not as easy to read as her others. But definitely worth the read.
I finished this book a few days ago and I’m not done processing yet, which is making it hard to write this review.
It challenged me. In a good but hard way.
I’m very thankful for this book and will continue to ponder the things I read.
It had this author’s usual humor and writing style but was not as easy to read as her others. But definitely worth the read.
December 31, 2021
Rest, Girl: A Journey from Exhausted and Stressed to Entirely Blessed by Jami Amerine is the author's personal story of finding rest in the midst of her busy life. Told with a strong voice, it was simply her story. I was surprised that I did not feel a connection with the book or relate to it much at all. It felt extremely repetitive and did not read as I expected at all. I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher with no obligations. These opinions are entirely my own.
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