From my blog (review now live):

All My Knotted-Up Life is the first Beth Moore book I have ever read. I have never been part of the Southern Baptist Convention, but when Beth publicly stood up for what is right and her denomination dug its heels in and ousted her for it, her story caught my attention and I found my respect and admiration for her growing. When I learned that she was writing a memoir, I thought, “Now that is a story I would like to read.”

I pre-ordered the book and was so pleased to receive pre-launch access to a copy of the audio book as a surprise from the publisher whilst I waited for the hard copy to arrive. Listening to this book in Beth’s voice, with all the charm of her accent and the emotion she allowed to sparkle through, was such a treat. At one point my husband declared that she sounded like Dolly Parton, and he frequently sat nearby while the audio book played so he could listen to her story too.

Beth is a phenomenal storyteller. She brings the reader right along with her and touches on vulnerable topics in an honest, graceful way. I laughed often and shed a few tears. By the end of the story, I had grown to love her and had found in her a kindred spirit. She really is a great writer, and oh, how I do love outstanding writing.

I am no stranger to walking away from a denomination that holds to harmful or anti-biblical teaching or from the internal work and turmoil that can come as part of that process, but I have been able to take that journey without much public scrutiny. Beth took her stand for all the world to see, and see it (and respond) they did. Her courage, spunk, and conviction are so inspiring to me and I related to many parts of her story.

I highly recommend this delightful memoir. The hard copy is beautiful and the audio book was lovely. If I had to recommend just one of them, I would say to go with the audio book so you can hear Beth’s voice telling her story, but either way, I think you will love it. ( )

Beth Moore, Christian author and speaker, tells her story of growing up. There was sexual abuse in her family which she held in for a long time. She founded Living Proof Ministries in 1994, She was basically excommunicated from the Southern Baptist Convention when she spoke out about abuse. She has two daughters and lives with her husband Keith of 40 plus years in a church inspired home in Texas. Her faith remains strong and inspirational. ( )

Beth Moore’s memoir drew me in quickly as she painted with words in the telling of her story from childhood to the present.

I was so moved by her honesty and often brought to tears as I related to different aspects of her life, what she felt or has been through.

I’m exceedingly grateful that she courageously published this memoir and for her contribution as a woman of faith who TRULY loves God and the Scriptures. ( )

Interesting look at the author's life. I really enjoyed listening to her narration. I guess my only minus points were the long discourses on religion. I know Mrs. Moore is known as a religious speaker and teacher, but for someone who has a very different view on religion that was tedious. I did like her strong opinion on a certain politician and his attitude towards women.... Bravo! ( )

The Short of It:

Heartfelt and honest.

The Rest of It:

Beth Moore might be a household name or she might be completely unknown to you. Either way, you will be completely charmed by All My Knotted-Up Life.

Beth shares her childhood with us, and includes the painful mention of abuse suffered at the hands of her father. But she does it in THE MOST gentle way. No surprises. As she shares her faith walk with us, this part of her story had to be shared because it shaped who she came to be as a Southern Baptist who eventually walked away from the church. Anyone who has ever struggled with their faith, and fell out of love with their church will be able to relate to Beth’s struggle.

As Beth found her footing, by creating Living Proof Ministries, other areas of her life began to fall apart. Mainly, the precarious health of her dear husband and how that affected the entire family. What felt like trial after trial is what brought both of them closer to God.

I want you to know, that you will find comfort in this memoir if you call yourself a Christian, but you will also find parts of it absolutely charming even if you’re not. The stories that Beth shares about her grandparents and siblings bring to mind simpler, happier times and I wanted to sit in that moment for a long while which it why it took me so long to read the book!

This book manages to be pure charm, mixed with weightier topics. Thoroughly enjoyed it and shed a tear or two. Beth knows how to share a story.

For more reviews, visit my blog: Book Chatter. ( )