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The Lost Art of True Beauty: The Set-Apart Girl's Guide to Feminine Grace
Sensuality equals beauty―that’s what today’s young women are learning from our sex-obsessed society. Millions of 20somethings are caught up in trying to look like fashion models, movie stars, or the hottest new pop singer and end up plagued by insecurity, eating disorders, and sexual promiscuity. Bestselling author and speaker Leslie Ludy ( Set-Apart Femininity and Authentic Beauty ) shares a different vision for feminine loveliness as God intended it to be―the breathtaking radiance of a young woman who has been transformed by Christ from the inside out. With candid personal stories, practical advice, and inspiration, Leslie leads young women on a life-changing journey to become women of feminine grace, beauty, and enduring style. Leslie inspires girls toward inner changes but also talks about practical social grace and manners, how to dress beautifully, and even how to create a warm and lovely environment in the home. Clearly, true beauty is more than skin deep.
176 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2010
36 people are currently reading
895 people want to read
About the author
Leslie Ludy
43 books374 followersLeslie Ludy is the bestselling author of Set-Apart Femininity, When God Writes Your Love Story, Authentic Beauty, and more than a dozen other books she has coauthored with her husband, Eric. She reaches thousands of young women each year and is passionate about helping them discover Christ's design for their lives. Leslie and Eric live with their three children in Colorado.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
March 8, 2010
I pre-read this book for possible use in a teen Bible study. The author clearly has a heart for teen girls. She shares personal examples of personal failure and growth while using some Scripture to back up her points. Her vocabulary does get hung up on a few "favorite" words, which is distracting. For example, she uses the word, or form of the word, "slob" at least half a dozen times. My biggest criticism of the book is that although she is teaching girls to be socially sensitive, selfless, and hospitable, she spends an inordinate time discussing what she and her husband do that is so right and what she has observed in others that is extremely offensive to her. I would think she could get her point across without condemning people she knows. I would actually be afraid to have dinner with her-she could be observing me for some material for a future book! She quotes Amy Carmichael often in the book. It seems to me that she could learn a little from the graceful speech of Ms. Carmichael.
That being said, I intend on having my daughter read this book. There is much that is positive about it and the author addresses some of the more modern issues that girls are encountering these days.
That being said, I intend on having my daughter read this book. There is much that is positive about it and the author addresses some of the more modern issues that girls are encountering these days.
August 1, 2012
I like a lot of what the Ludy's preach, and for the most part our lifestyles match up in beliefs, desires and views on feminity. The only reason I can't rate this higher is honestly, I feel like Leslie does talk a bit too much about herself, and what she thinks without Biblical support. Also I feel like she is too judgemental. A good portion of her book, and all the magazines i've read, bashes anyone who doesn't fit the standards in her head, implying they aren't Christian, and praises only those who fit her view of christianity. I felt uncomfortable reading about her talking so viciously about these women. If Leslie would lose the criticism and judgment I would be a whole hearted fan!
November 13, 2014
The subtitle of The Lost Art of True Beauty is "The Set-Apart Girl’s Guide to Feminine Grace", which implies the spiritual aspect of beauty. Ludy strongly urges her readers to find true beauty as they separate themselves from the values of the world and draw closer to Christ.
“Love yourself, take care of yourself, transform yourself” are our mantras. But as Ludy points out, these are totally contrary to scripture. Christ said, “Whoever desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.”(Mark 8:34) The word “deny” here literally translates: to forget one’s self, lose sight of one’s self and one’s own interests… The secret to becoming radiant and beautiful is to forget about self and become completely consumed with only one thing – Jesus Christ…. (p.30)
The first step to discovering true feminine beauty is exchanging all that we are for all the He is. If we rely on something that we possess to make us beautiful, we cannot receive the supernatural, transforming beauty of Christ. True beauty is impossible outside of Him. (p.22)
“Love yourself, take care of yourself, transform yourself” are our mantras. But as Ludy points out, these are totally contrary to scripture. Christ said, “Whoever desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.”(Mark 8:34) The word “deny” here literally translates: to forget one’s self, lose sight of one’s self and one’s own interests… The secret to becoming radiant and beautiful is to forget about self and become completely consumed with only one thing – Jesus Christ…. (p.30)
The first step to discovering true feminine beauty is exchanging all that we are for all the He is. If we rely on something that we possess to make us beautiful, we cannot receive the supernatural, transforming beauty of Christ. True beauty is impossible outside of Him. (p.22)
February 28, 2011
"...we are constantly assaulted by a world that insists that we aren't alluring enough-- we need to change our bodies, our clothes and our personality in order to be more appealing. And the same culture that trains young women to become sexy, sultry, and seductive also trains men to lust after women who possess those traits."
A breath of fresh air in our day-- a lady who tells young women what they need to hear. This is a book written equally for new and not-so-new christian girls/young women. Mrs. Ludy lovingly yet firmly gives the truth about real beauty-- it's not something physical, something you can see and feel. Real, true beauty shines from within, and springs from a love and devotion to our Lord. If we are not devoted to surrendering our very lives to God to serve His purposes, if we are not willing to cultivate a relationship with the Creator of beauty itself, we will never have beauty-- at least, beauty by God's standards, the kind that really turns heads. By the way, I was encouraged by how conservative her views are (i.e. on TV, movies, etc.) considering how many modern Christian teachers seem to be so lax on these issues.
Mrs. Ludy writes in a straightforward manner, which can be a little dry at times; but as she mentions in the forward, she strives to write as if she were chatting with the reader across the table. All in all, I was quite encouraged and challenged by this book, and I'm grateful to the friend who gave it to me as a birthday gift!
A breath of fresh air in our day-- a lady who tells young women what they need to hear. This is a book written equally for new and not-so-new christian girls/young women. Mrs. Ludy lovingly yet firmly gives the truth about real beauty-- it's not something physical, something you can see and feel. Real, true beauty shines from within, and springs from a love and devotion to our Lord. If we are not devoted to surrendering our very lives to God to serve His purposes, if we are not willing to cultivate a relationship with the Creator of beauty itself, we will never have beauty-- at least, beauty by God's standards, the kind that really turns heads. By the way, I was encouraged by how conservative her views are (i.e. on TV, movies, etc.) considering how many modern Christian teachers seem to be so lax on these issues.
Mrs. Ludy writes in a straightforward manner, which can be a little dry at times; but as she mentions in the forward, she strives to write as if she were chatting with the reader across the table. All in all, I was quite encouraged and challenged by this book, and I'm grateful to the friend who gave it to me as a birthday gift!
June 19, 2024
I really enjoyed reading this book and it was very inspiring. Though I didn't exactly agree with everything in it, I could definitely see myself re-reading this someday! It was filled with lots of good points about etiquette and manners and I have always loved reading about those sorts of things sense I was little.
January 12, 2018
A friend of mine gave this book to me for my birthday, and I enjoyed it so much! I think that this is a book that every woman, young or old, should read. It was very informative, telling how to exude a Christ-like femininity, not the femininity of the world. I wish I could give it more than five stars.
Leslie covers issues that many girls and women can relate to, such as peer pressure, fashion, eating disorders, body image, forgiveness, and even creating a Christ-like atmosphere in your home, room, or wherever you live. And that is just the tip of the iceberg.
Along with the quotes on the quote page, these quotes had an impact on me:
“The temptations of the world must not be looked at, listened to, or entertained even for the slightest moment.”
“She feels emotion at greater levels, but she is not a slave to her feelings.”
“If we live in a sloppy, disorganized environment with clothes strewn all over the floor and dishes piled in the sink, we are likely to feel chaotic, scattered, and sloppy as we go about our daily tasks.”
“The more you mull over it [an offense], and go over the scene in your mind, the more it has an opportunity to take root within your soul and plant deep seeds of bitterness.”
“However, though we are not to accept harassment from the enemy, we can still thank God for the opportunity to learn how to fight, pray, and be strengthened in our faith - just as it says in James 1.”
Leslie covers issues that many girls and women can relate to, such as peer pressure, fashion, eating disorders, body image, forgiveness, and even creating a Christ-like atmosphere in your home, room, or wherever you live. And that is just the tip of the iceberg.
Along with the quotes on the quote page, these quotes had an impact on me:
“The temptations of the world must not be looked at, listened to, or entertained even for the slightest moment.”
“She feels emotion at greater levels, but she is not a slave to her feelings.”
“If we live in a sloppy, disorganized environment with clothes strewn all over the floor and dishes piled in the sink, we are likely to feel chaotic, scattered, and sloppy as we go about our daily tasks.”
“The more you mull over it [an offense], and go over the scene in your mind, the more it has an opportunity to take root within your soul and plant deep seeds of bitterness.”
“However, though we are not to accept harassment from the enemy, we can still thank God for the opportunity to learn how to fight, pray, and be strengthened in our faith - just as it says in James 1.”
March 22, 2017
One Sunday afternoon I had a headache, so I wandered into my sister's room to ask for a head massage. Afterward I noticed this book on her bed, so I picked it up and began reading. It wasn't until last night (March 21st) that I realized I had never reviewed the book, so here I am.
The book was very easy to read, and kept me interested until the end (I read it all in one sitting). It was delightful how the author wove Biblical truths and life experiences together to form a book that was relatable, practical, and drew the reader in. Her writing style is also one that I find to be engaging, which is a huge plus.
I don't have a ton of details to add since I read this book two months ago, but I do look forward to reading more books by the same author.
The book was very easy to read, and kept me interested until the end (I read it all in one sitting). It was delightful how the author wove Biblical truths and life experiences together to form a book that was relatable, practical, and drew the reader in. Her writing style is also one that I find to be engaging, which is a huge plus.
I don't have a ton of details to add since I read this book two months ago, but I do look forward to reading more books by the same author.
May 9, 2011
This book has made a wonderful impact on me. It really describes the woman I want to be. Even though it is designed for girls or young adults, it is still applicable for women of all ages! There are beautiful lessons about womanhood, all derived from Scripture. This book is very Jesus-centered, which is hit or miss with some people. The only reason I did not give it 5 stars was that at some points in the book the author seemed to put herself on a pedestal, even if she (the author) didn't mean to. I could certainly see how those points of the narrative would be a turn off for some readers.
August 16, 2017
This was an amazing book! :) I definitely want to read more of Leslie Ludy's books. I think every girl should read this.
December 27, 2013
Amazing book. Great read and would recommend for women of ALL ages; it gave me a glimpse of what true beauty is really like in Christ and I've never stopped fighting for it since!
October 3, 2017
Overall solid book
March 2, 2019
I saw this book a number of years ago, and after skimming through it a bit, I thought it looked interesting. I'm fairly certain I would have enjoyed it more then than I do now, but it was still a helpful read.
It includes many practical examples and illustrations, but I had trouble relating to many of them. Until the last chapter, that is, which is entitled "Noble Beauty: The Refreshing Radiance of a Forgiving Woman." It help me realize how much I struggle in the area of forgiveness. That last chapter made the book worthwhile for me!
Unfortunately, I do not like Leslie Ludy's writing style. She uses many clichés that make her message feel stale.
She also gives a bit too much weight to her personal opinions. For example, it makes her feel refreshed and relaxed to dress up, and she thinks everyone should make an effort to dress with class. But some women prefer to dress down most of the time. Do their casual outfits make them sloppy and unfeminine? Maybe it's simply difficult for me to relate to her because her personality is very different from mine, and perhaps my complaints are just a result of biases toward MY personal opinions! Lol In any case, I'm not giving these quibbles much weight.
I think it's preferable to read Set-Apart Feminity before reading this book. She refers to Set Apart Feminity several times and seems to take it for granted that her readers are familiar with it.
I might read more of Ludy's books eventually because she does have an interesting message!
It includes many practical examples and illustrations, but I had trouble relating to many of them. Until the last chapter, that is, which is entitled "Noble Beauty: The Refreshing Radiance of a Forgiving Woman." It help me realize how much I struggle in the area of forgiveness. That last chapter made the book worthwhile for me!
Unfortunately, I do not like Leslie Ludy's writing style. She uses many clichés that make her message feel stale.
She also gives a bit too much weight to her personal opinions. For example, it makes her feel refreshed and relaxed to dress up, and she thinks everyone should make an effort to dress with class. But some women prefer to dress down most of the time. Do their casual outfits make them sloppy and unfeminine? Maybe it's simply difficult for me to relate to her because her personality is very different from mine, and perhaps my complaints are just a result of biases toward MY personal opinions! Lol In any case, I'm not giving these quibbles much weight.
I think it's preferable to read Set-Apart Feminity before reading this book. She refers to Set Apart Feminity several times and seems to take it for granted that her readers are familiar with it.
I might read more of Ludy's books eventually because she does have an interesting message!
January 4, 2021
I found this book to be well-written and thought provoking -- in fact, I was pleasantly surprised when I discovered this wasn't a book all about your heart, but did, in fact, offer some practical tips and advice (hint: think etiquette).
I found much of what Mrs. Ludy wrote to be down-to-earth, and I agreed with much of what was stated. I appreciated the many facets of womanhood brought out, and I agree wth the premise: to be a truly beautiful woman, you must be a selfless, thoughtful girl, in opposition to the thoughtless, selfish girl.
The standard set in this book for a beautiful, biblical, feminine womanhood was high, but mainly I saw the fruit of the Spirit being applied in practical ways to a girls life. And every Christian should be able to live up to that standard, whether a man or woman. It will just (obviously) look different.
a four-star read, and I would highly recommend!
(Note: due to some public school related incidents/comments, I would recommend this book for 12+ public school student, and with parents permission for that age private/homeschooled student. It depends on what you/your family is comfortable with)
I found much of what Mrs. Ludy wrote to be down-to-earth, and I agreed with much of what was stated. I appreciated the many facets of womanhood brought out, and I agree wth the premise: to be a truly beautiful woman, you must be a selfless, thoughtful girl, in opposition to the thoughtless, selfish girl.
The standard set in this book for a beautiful, biblical, feminine womanhood was high, but mainly I saw the fruit of the Spirit being applied in practical ways to a girls life. And every Christian should be able to live up to that standard, whether a man or woman. It will just (obviously) look different.
a four-star read, and I would highly recommend!
(Note: due to some public school related incidents/comments, I would recommend this book for 12+ public school student, and with parents permission for that age private/homeschooled student. It depends on what you/your family is comfortable with)
March 7, 2023
This is an amazing good!! So bold, informative, and straight to the point no sugar coating stuff!
I think EVERY teenage girl, every woman in general should read this book!
I think EVERY teenage girl, every woman in general should read this book!
January 12, 2018
I first read this book in 2010, I believe. In the introduction, Leslie Ludy writes, "I pray that this message will encourage you to become fully and completely His [Jesus Christ's]." It did. This book brought me to a turning point in my life, a point where my purpose became truly to live for Jesus Christ and make everything I do all about Him, and there are several reasons why this book did that for me.
The first reason is that Mrs. Ludy makes it clear that radiant womanhood and a vibrant life are only possible if my life is completely surrendered to and built around Jesus Christ. Though I had encountered the idea of living life for Jesus alone as I was growing up, it was never presented to me like this before. Not just reading my Bible and going to church and praying, but literally making every single aspect of my life all about Him. Reading what I read for Jesus Christ. Listening to the music I listen to for Jesus Christ. Enjoying friends for Jesus Christ. Brushing my teeth for Jesus Christ. No longer was "Whether, then, you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God" (1 Cor. 10:31) a nebulous thought; it was a reality.
And this reality affects my life in very practical ways, as Mrs. Ludy also made clear in this book. It became an inescapable truth that if Jesus Christ has changed me on the inside, then the natural result will be a change on the outside. This can be a challenging and convicting thing at first - and caused me to put this book down and almost never finish it the first time through. Yet I love how Mrs. Ludy was not afraid to point out things that some might not appreciate that those who read this book might be set free to live fully for Jesus Christ.
Examples used by Mrs. Ludy made these practical principals easy to grasp. True examples of girls and women who have chosen to surrender to Christ not only helped me to wrap my mind around what that might look like but also inspired and encouraged me, knowing that such a life isn't just a nice idea. The story-oriented writing style also made this an easy and relatable book to read.
I recommend this book for teens and women who desire to live for Jesus Christ alone, especially those wondering what it looks like to serve Him in practical, every-day life. If you read this book, may it encourage you also to become fully and completely HIS!
The first reason is that Mrs. Ludy makes it clear that radiant womanhood and a vibrant life are only possible if my life is completely surrendered to and built around Jesus Christ. Though I had encountered the idea of living life for Jesus alone as I was growing up, it was never presented to me like this before. Not just reading my Bible and going to church and praying, but literally making every single aspect of my life all about Him. Reading what I read for Jesus Christ. Listening to the music I listen to for Jesus Christ. Enjoying friends for Jesus Christ. Brushing my teeth for Jesus Christ. No longer was "Whether, then, you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God" (1 Cor. 10:31) a nebulous thought; it was a reality.
And this reality affects my life in very practical ways, as Mrs. Ludy also made clear in this book. It became an inescapable truth that if Jesus Christ has changed me on the inside, then the natural result will be a change on the outside. This can be a challenging and convicting thing at first - and caused me to put this book down and almost never finish it the first time through. Yet I love how Mrs. Ludy was not afraid to point out things that some might not appreciate that those who read this book might be set free to live fully for Jesus Christ.
Examples used by Mrs. Ludy made these practical principals easy to grasp. True examples of girls and women who have chosen to surrender to Christ not only helped me to wrap my mind around what that might look like but also inspired and encouraged me, knowing that such a life isn't just a nice idea. The story-oriented writing style also made this an easy and relatable book to read.
I recommend this book for teens and women who desire to live for Jesus Christ alone, especially those wondering what it looks like to serve Him in practical, every-day life. If you read this book, may it encourage you also to become fully and completely HIS!
July 9, 2011
This book was wonderful reading for today's average girl. I appreciated the concept of being set-apart and was eager to get online and read her wonderfully put together webzine (www.setapartgirl.com).
Although Mrs. Ludy's style of writing lacked a confidence I have so admired in authors like Debi Pearl, I still came away refreshed and uplifted to live solely for Jesus Christ.
My favorite part of the book was the very practical tips/ideas Mrs. Ludy offered. An absence of practicality is one of the things I loathe in modern-day Christian books. Yet, Mrs. Ludy had an abundance. I was thrilled to learn so much about eating habits, exercise, emailing, internet usage, and so much more.
I think the bottom line is that girls and women of all ages today need to remember for Whom and What they live.
Although Mrs. Ludy's style of writing lacked a confidence I have so admired in authors like Debi Pearl, I still came away refreshed and uplifted to live solely for Jesus Christ.
My favorite part of the book was the very practical tips/ideas Mrs. Ludy offered. An absence of practicality is one of the things I loathe in modern-day Christian books. Yet, Mrs. Ludy had an abundance. I was thrilled to learn so much about eating habits, exercise, emailing, internet usage, and so much more.
I think the bottom line is that girls and women of all ages today need to remember for Whom and What they live.
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May 26, 2014"The Lost Art of True Beauty" by Leslie Ludy is a truly helpful guide to becoming a more pure, christ-seeking young woman. It is helpful to all ages, although the main focus is a message being sent to teens. Ludy is not, however, sending us girls the message to cover up in shapeless, unfashionable clohtes and completely ignore boys. She is helping us to be Christ-serving while looking fabulous but modest, and being the type ofgirl who is attractive to guys who seek true Christ-like beauty in a girl. Ludy shows some good examples of who to be and who not to be, and how to be a true christina and get through the teen years happily, with friends, and a heart and mind and body filled to the brim, and overflowing with a passion for Christ. This book is most helpful, and a quick read that i will take to heart forever more.
May 23, 2017
A friend loaned this book to me months ago... but I just recently found time to read it. And wow. I feel the timing must have been from God. I have not felt so inspired, encouraged, and motivated by a book in a LONG time. And it spoke to me on so many levels. Going through a tough time in life, and trying to rest on God's grace and planning. And fighting anything unfeminine... yet at a loss as to how to do so. Leslie Ludy seemed to understand exactly what I needed to hear and wrote those words. And now...just for the strength from God to live a life for Him and to be a true woman of God that exudes real beauty, internally.
I'd recommend this book to every girl and woman!
I'd recommend this book to every girl and woman!
June 12, 2018
It was a good book for being an inspiration on focusing on God more and more and how truly to become His daughter. Mrs. Ludy does go a little off the deep end on some points, in my opinion.
After my second read, I felt like the overall tone of the book was as if the author was on a high pedestal and looking down upon the rest of American women, as if we are all self-consumed and obsessed with "pop culture". Also, the phrase pop culture is overused and it grates on my nerves.
After my second read, I felt like the overall tone of the book was as if the author was on a high pedestal and looking down upon the rest of American women, as if we are all self-consumed and obsessed with "pop culture". Also, the phrase pop culture is overused and it grates on my nerves.
September 9, 2011
Very good book; I really admire Leslie Ludy and take to heart the message that she shares in her books, and this one was no exception. In this book she shows us how to maintain our femininity without falling for the world's view of what is sexy/beautiful/cool. It's a message every young woman should read.
October 21, 2010
This book was a wonderful companion to Leslie Ludy's "Set-Apart Femininity." Though some of the information was repeated from that book, I really enjoyed the practical applications of how to be a "radiant young woman." Altogether I recommend it!!
October 3, 2011
"Captivating loveliness begins when we encounter the Author of all true beauty."
Convicting, challenging, and encouraging--an excellent book! It is the kind of book that is best if you take the time to read through it slowly.
Convicting, challenging, and encouraging--an excellent book! It is the kind of book that is best if you take the time to read through it slowly.
January 28, 2013
I think this book is defiantly a must read if you have a heart for God and want to be beautiful in his eyes. The only reason I'm giving it 4 stars is because I feel like this book didn't go over enough. I love her writings:)
October 7, 2010
It was good. I havent read all of it though... Better get it out again!
January 18, 2011
I read this book with my women's bible study. It was amazing.
January 9, 2015
i think tat this book shows how the media is damaging the self-esteem of young girls and how they try to change themselves to be like the FAKE girls the media shows.
September 25, 2011
No matter your age, there is something in here for you to mature in your walk with Christ.
June 3, 2012
Untuk para cewek2, HARUS BACA!
October 26, 2012
I would recommend this book to all readers that like Christian books.
March 6, 2015
Nice book though it was a bit difficult for me to get through because I dont like reading examples but definitely resourceful!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews