Turn Toward the Sun: Releasing What If and Embracing What Is

by Mandy Hale

If recent world events have taught us anything, it's that life doesn't always look the way we want it to look. And while we can't control the curveballs life throws at us, we can control our response to them. We can choose to loosen our grip on what we think life is "supposed" to be and embrace life for exactly what it is--messiness and mayhem and all. We can choose to stubbornly turn toward the sun, even as the storm rages around us. That surrender is where true happiness and peace lie.

With insights born from her own hard-won battles, Mandy Hale turns her attention (and her sizable wit) to showing you what she's learned about letting go of the desire to control everything in life. With the honesty and authenticity she's known for, Mandy inspires you to stop striving, live in the moment, sit with your experiences, and trust God with the unknown.

Like sunflowers that turn toward the sun that helps them grow tall and strong, we can turn to friends, family, and faith for strength in difficult times.

If you've felt depleted or despairing as you've wrestled with circumstances beyond your control, you will find in Mandy a kind and trustworthy guide through the storm.

Genres: Self Help, Nonfiction

192 pages, Paperback

Published June 14, 2022

About the author

Mandy Hale is affectionately known around the world as "The Single Woman.” In just over three years, Mandy has garnered a massive Twitter following of a half a million people from across the globe. With a heart to inspire single women to live their best lives and to never, ever settle, Mandy cuts to the heart of the matter with her inspirational, straight-talking, witty, and often wildly humorous take on life and love. She’s also not afraid to talk about the many realities of being single in a world that still asks “And WHY are you still single?”

Recently invited by Oprah to cover her “Lifeclass: the Tour” events in St. Louis and New York City as part of OWN’s “VIP Press Corps,” and featured at the Women of Faith conference in Hartford, Connecticut, Mandy has also been named a “Twitter Powerhouse” by the Huffington Post, a "Woman of Influence" by the Nashville Business Journal, and a “Single in the City” by Nashville Lifestyles magazine. She has also been featured in Forbes magazine, Cosmopolitan magazine, the Huffington Post, and is a featured guest blogger for Lifetime’s The Conversation. With followers from all over the world, Mandy has made a name for herself as the voice of empowerment and sassiness for single women across the globe.

Mandy released an e-book in February of 2012 that has gone on to garner rave reviews, and recently signed a two-book deal with Thomas Nelson Publishers. Her first published book, The Single Woman: Life, Love & a Dash of Sass hits shelves this summer.

Reviews

[Susan Mackey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book spoke directly to my heart and reminded me that I must stop dwelling in the “WHAT IFS” of life and start living in the “WHAT IS”. Mandy once again gets real and honest and shares intimate details of her life with her readers. This book covers the gamut and has something that every reader can relate to. From the effects of the pandemic on her own mental health, to how her family dealt with both of her parent’s struggling with cancer at the same time; from saying a final goodbye and letting go of a man she, at one time, thought was her future, to how she continues to grow closer to God each and every day; and some light hearted, insightful analysis of the mysterious male species that every single woman ponders from time to time. I have read each of Mandy’s books multiple times (if you haven’t done this yourself, what are you waiting for?) and this book clearly demonstrates how Mandy has grown and learned from life’s lessons along the way.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Positive words to get you through

Mandy always speaks my heart in her books. I always feel such a soul connection with her that we are 1 in the same. I just feel like she gets me and everything she writes I can connect with. It's so hard to navigate life on your own without a clear direction and her words always make it clear. Survival is first loving one self and learning how to let go.

[Mridul · Rating 2 out of 5]

I didn't know this was a book written for women before I picked it up. But, anyhow, I've read plenty of them by female authors. I really loved the author's mindset. How she too believes un-accountability is the norm these days, how people are usually very flaky, how they see friendships and just common relationships as disposable, how there is a complete scarcity of care, respect, understanding, and commitment to follow through with their words. I did like that she took some alone time, away from the conventional roadmap to becoming an adult, and worked on herself. The intensive weekly therapy, introspecting, defining who she really is, how what environment affects her, what she should do differently, how she should focus more or acceptance of herself and her circumstances. Turn towards the sun, Do hard things. I did like that.

Besides that, she mentioned that just like her, many women wrestle with "what if I'm not enough?". Feeling "I was too much and yet not enough". I've felt the same. The book "Man Enough by Justin Baldoni" had a similar feeling too. Men too feel burdened by the expectations from society and women; Men too, are forced to mold themselves into something they are not. Men too, struggle with feeling they are enough, that they don't have to improve more. Men and women are very similar in that regard.

I loved that she gave herself permission, and also, by writing this book giving other single women the permission to be gracefully themselves. Be kind, compassionate, and understanding. Though I wish she gave the same permission to the men in her life too. She describes that after writing books, the onlookers, expected her to be super-human, someone incapable of making mistakes, and to that, she highlights - that just because she writes about these things and she is imperfect, does not mean that those experiences were false, or everything written here wasn't true or real. It is. I really appreciate that she has found a way to accept herself, her real, messy, flawed, and bold, generic, imperfect self, even when the societal expectations are constantly crushing her.

I wish she didn't see God / Jesus the Savior as a "him". Seeing men as super-human, incapable of being imperfect, holding them on to the same high toxic expectations that used to drag her down. Still using the same narrow lens, of which she was a victim off, I don't think it really does any good.

Lastly, she had a realization that - "clearcut, open, and honest" appeals to her these days. AT THE AGE OF 42??? I'm 24 right now. I hope more women become true to themselves quicker. I too, long for a companion, who is aware of who she is, kind, honest, and understanding, at my age range. Please don't let the red-pill idiots' statement that only older women are looking to settle, hold true. Choose to help yourself early.

[Heather Carruthers · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was everything I thought it would be and more. I have been following Mandy Hale for the last year via social media. She is on FB and IG as "The Single Woman." When I got to the opportunity to review the book, I couldn't wait. This book was one that I literally could not put down unless I had to. I laughed, I cried, I stung, etc. There were times I wish Mandy was right beside me to fist bump her and said "Girl, where have you BEEN all my life." This is the first time I've ever reviewed a book -- but I just cannot say enough good things about this book. If you're struggling, this book is for you. If you're single, this book is for you. If you're broken-hearted, this book is for you. If you're having trouble letting go of what you thought life was supposed to look like, this book is for you.

One of my favorite quotes from this book, just to give a little taste is this -- "But you have to be willing to give up the life and love you thought you were meant to have in order to receive the life and love that are meant for you." My favorite chapters were Planting My Own Garden and Decorating My Own Soul; How To Let Go of Love; To the Man I Thought Was "the One."

In short, you will have to read the book for yourself to find out more!! You don't want to miss this :) <3

[BreAnn Spreadborough · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is by far the best book Mandy Hale has ever released. We have all been living in the dark in some way or another over the last few years. Mandy is no exception. As both her parents battled cancer in the midst of a global pandemic, it would have been easy for Mandy to embrace the anxiety swirling around her and get stuck on all the what ifs, but instead, she focused on what is. She turned toward the sun, and found ways to stand tall and live in the light. This book made me laugh, it made me cry. At times I felt "called out" because what she was writing about felt so relatable that it was like she was writing my story. I recommend this book to anyone who struggles with all the what ifs of life. Which honestly is ALL OF US. Mandy hits this one out of the park, and I know I'm going to reread this one many many times.

[Jenn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mandy Hale has done it again!

As part of the book launch team, I was able to read this book before it was released. Mandy has a great way of relating so many things in her life so that everyone who reads her books can find a bit of themselves in it. In "Turn Toward The Sun" Mandy took experiences in her personal life that not only happened in terms of relationships but also within her family and of course the COVID-19 pandemic and turned them around into ways that were more positive. I have only read a couple of her books and found I really liked how this book addressed many different things in such an uplifting way and have found that I am now trying to turn toward the sun more even in difficult circumstances. I highly recommend this book for everyone who might need a bit of encouragement and a different way of looking at things.

[Heather Kelley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was on the book launch team for Turn Toward the Sun by Mandy Hale and received a digital ARC of the book. I have followed Mandy on Social Media for many years and I have read every book she has written. I enjoyed this book as much as the others. Mandy is beyond honest in the topics of this book. As a fellow single, never been married, Christian woman I can relate to a lot of what Mandy writes about. In this book she shares about her time during the pandemic, including both of her parents getting diagnosed with cancer, as well as the continued struggles of dating as we get older. Mandy has excellent advice and tips, not only about dating in this book, but also just about living in the present. If you are a single woman, I highly recommend this book!

[Steph Carr (LiteraryHypeWoman) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one is kinda all over the place, but it's not necessarily a bad thing. Mandy covers a lot of ground, from her usual dating/ relationship advice, to mental health, to walking through both parents getting cancer at the same time, to the pandemic. It's a lot to process, much less live through. She intentionally left off the chipper, everything will be okay vibes this time, so don't expect an overdose of pep.

[Stephanie Snider · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mandy Hale had written another fantastic book! I love Mandy’s honesty and humor in all of her books. This one hit particularly close to home for me as my sister and I are currently walking through an unknown illness with my mom. Between her honesty about her struggle with anxiety and her stories of dating and friendship, this book is for everyone. Grab a copy today and #TurnTowardTheSun, knowing that you aren’t alone.

[Cindy Cook · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed reading Mandy Hale's latest book Turn Toward the Sun!!! She really captured the depth of the struggle of when life hits hard from all directions. This is sure to be a "must-read" for anyone who is looking for HOPE and ways to come out of hard times. Mandy's candid down-to-earth writing style is like a dear friend you are having a heart-to-heart conversation with..... you feel understood and "seen" and you realize that you are not alone.

[Alexandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book about love, life, faith, hope and everything in between. It’s a reminder to live life as your authentic self, and also practicing the art of mindfulness and being present in the moment. The book reflected on the emotional turmoil that many of us faced during the COVID-19 pandemic; a psychological impact that will be with us for many years, but also to turn towards the sun even when life gets tough, dark and painful sometimes.

[Mindy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I attended, as a reader, a zoom book release with author Mandy Hale where she was promoting her newest book, turn towards the sun. I immediately found her e book on Hoopla and devoured it within two days. It had so many things I related to and I was literally shouting “me too girl!” It was exactly what I needed to hear at the right time.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a beautiful book that encompasses a range of topics, from living through a pandemic, dealing with aging parents, dating, growing older, and mental health. I felt like the author was speaking to me several times while reading. The sparks of spirituality infused in the text are uplifting and never preachy.

[Janet Lebeda · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great book to start the year on and set the tone and intention for a fresh approach. I’ve read one other of Mandy’s books and find her style refreshing and her words suitable for the single female Christian- definitely a good read for where I am in my life right now. Let go of the “what ifs” and appreciate the “what is”.

[Tara Fleming · Rating 5 out of 5]

You when books come into your mind at just the right time? This one sure did and it hit all of the things right on the nail. I have absolutely LOVED every single one of Mandy's book and I finally got my hands on this one. If you struggle with anxiety or self worth - this book is for you! Man or woman alike. She is super practical in this book and relatable to the T.

[Sarah Johnson · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was really excited to read this book, but I am sad to say that I couldn't bring myself to finish it. There were just too many other good books waiting for me to pick up, and while the author had a refreshing perspective on life and many great points, it was simply too redundant and I felt like I was just going to keep hearing the same message on repeat if I powered through to the end.

[Casie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've been a fan of Mandy Hale's since the beginning. This book spoke to me. It was almostvas if she was qriting about my life. I already plan to re-read the book! It is a must read for anyone who has dealt with insecurities and anxiety.

[Tiffany · Rating 5 out of 5]

Have yet to be disappointed by a book written by Mandy Hale. I loved this book so much, that I bought another copy for a friend going through similar circumstances as Mandy is currently. Definitely a book to read if you are going through anxiety causing life changes.

[Julie · Rating 3 out of 5]

The book was a bit different from “Don’t Believe the Swipe”. This one has more religion references to it than the only other book I read of Hale’s. The overall message is a good one and very powerful in concept and action.

[Jackie Robbins · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve followed Mandy Hale for years and I love her outlook on dating and the humor she adds. She is raw and honest in everything she writes. I’m a person with anxiety and this book was a helpful reminder that I can’t control the outcome of things.

[Cynthia · Rating 5 out of 5]

First read by Mandy Hale. Her honesty is refreshing as she gives you details of how she has managed difficult life happenings. Appreciate her frame of reference as a 40 something female single. That in itself is unique with this genre of book. Kudos to Mandy.

[Denysha · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my second book from the author. It was a quick and easy read. Different from what I expected but enjoyable nonetheless.

[Andrea Moncayo · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book probably because I could relate so much to it! I appreciate the author sharing her experiences and helping give some life lessons/advice along the way!

[Gina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've said it before and I'll say it again: if you're a single woman and you've never picked up a Mandy Hale book, what are you doing with your life??? I'd like to add to it this time, though: if you're a married woman and you've never read a Mandy Hale book, maybe you should. I started reading Mandy's boos when I was single. I'm married now, and I STILL find wisdom buried in each of her books for me.

[Jessica Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mandy always gets it ! This was a great uplifting book.

[Kristin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is probably my favorite book of Mandy’s. Honest and encouraging.

[Jana · Rating 1 out of 5]

I guess I would have to read one of her other books to know if I like this one seems how the entire book was referencing her other books and stating how amazing they were

[Shauna · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was an awesome book

[Susan · Rating 1 out of 5]

I wanted to love Turn Toward the Sun but this book fell short.

I'll admit, part of me was really turned off by the fact that the author wrote a chapter on an ex and wrote "this is the last time I will ever write about you". Maybe when she wrote that she believed it, but in real life, she reached out to him again and ended up marrying him very quickly after he finally responded. If you follow her on social media, you know that he left her a few months into their marriage, but apparently after a couple of months apart, they are back together again. I hope it lasts (for her sake) but honestly, this guy's track record is abysmal.

It's hard to take a book seriously by someone who continually ignores her own advice, that's why I can only give 1 star. I'm starting to think that maybe the author writes these tidbits in the hopes that she'll learn from them.

[Jackie Denarie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked her others better but still an uplifting read