What Others Are Saying
reviews, blurbs, blogs, tweets, & all that good stuff
Contents
Welcome
Confessions of a Prayer Slacker
The Runaway Pastor's Wife
Don't Ever Look Down:
Surviving Cancer Together
Co-authored with
Dick & Deb Church
Tea with Emma
Blue Christmas
Hey Friend!
What a blast it's been to experience the release of my first books! It's been so much fun getting to meet so many new people, see lots of old friends, and hear from so many readers about the way God is using my books to touch their lives!
So please don't browse these pages and think I'm tooting my own horn. Far from it - I'm like that half-back who just made a touchdown, then takes a knee and points to the sky, giving the glory to God. These books were all His idea anyway . . . I'm just the one pounding the keyboard!
~ Diane
Confessions of a
Prayer Slacker
"Miz Moody!
I so love your book. I was just going to skim through it for a bit and I can't put it down! Thank you so much for being your honest self."
- Joyce Hawley, Largo, Florida
I just finished your new book. What a blessing and thank-you! I am a prayer warrior, I loved your insight and faith, and (humor) on prayer . . . My favorite part was the story of the parade, a wonderful visual of God's love for us! He knows all and has our best interest for HIS glory in mind!
- Kim Kussy, Florida
"I don't think you realize the power in the pages of your book. I know your words will touch more people than you can imagine. I'd love to see this book on the Best Seller's list and in every bookstore. My prayer is just that."
- Barbara Leachman, New Mexico
I guess I've read too many guilt-inducing tomes on prayer because this one ain't. Instead I felt inspired to start a actual prayer life (in contrast to the under-the-breath desperate mutterings I'm prone to), while laughing out loud at the author's wit and transparency of her own prayer struggles. This will energize you (while artfully knocking each excuse out from under you) to get serious about prayer. Guilt not included!
- Sally Wilson, Tennessee
"Hi Mrs Moody,
I am one of Ann's friends and she gave me a copy of your new book "Confessions of a Prayer Slacker".... I just finished it and it was great. I loved your honesty in the book. So many of us think that ALL THE REAL Christians are doing so much better at prayer than us... I am re-energized and have my prayer journal ready! Thanks!"
- Kathryn Thornton Gay, FL
"Great book, especially for long-time believers who need to be reminded of Whose we are and why we are here. Glad the author opened up her heart and her past to share with us." - Jane Williams, Largo, FL
"Bought your new book last week at Crosspoint. Started reading it today... LOVE IT! Had a hard time putting it down so that I could get dressed and start my day... so if I'm late everywhere today, it's your fault! Ha!"
- Marcia Ramirez, Nashville
"If you want to read a book that is going to guilt you into prayer, don't pick up this one. Diane Moody shares her heart with vulnerability and honesty with a mix of humor. I felt like I had a kindred spirit! While reading this short, but amazing book, I laughed with her and identified with her, and wanted what she has discovered in her journey to deepen her relationship with God . . .
Diane gives us some practical steps to take the leap from reciting The Lord's Prayer to inviting God into our everyday life and discovering who He is and how He longs to demonstrate His love to you . . . If you want to discover a holy friendship with the Creator, read it, savor it, be challenged by it and acknowledge what a slacker you have been. God is waiting for you!"
- Paula Lipper, Toledo, Ohio
"I really enjoyed this book. Diane takes us on her own personal prayer journey with honesty & humor. I've read many books on prayer, most of which left me feeling even guiltier about my prayer life than before I read them. This book left me inspired, hopeful & encouraged to begin a new journey into a more meaningful prayer life. Our prayers really do matter." - Sharon Jacob, Franklin, TN
What an honor to receive such a great review! Here's an excerpt of that review. To read the entire post, click on the heading above. Thanks, Katy!
. . . So, I admit it, I sound like a prayer slacker and that is one of the reasons why this book called out to me so insistently. I was really hoping that this book would give me a kick in the posterior and get me motivated to dedicate more one-on-one time to God every day. It did that and more--it gave me a lot of food for thought as well.
Now that I've finished the book, my copy is filled with little sticky tabs, marking interesting or important passages that I want to return to. Diane has provided a wonderfully motivational book that acknowledges her own weaknesses while at the same time helping other prayer slackers get closer to the point of becoming prayer warriors. Diane dispels a wide range of excuses, beautifully illustrates God's desire to spend time with you, and gives the reader a step-by-step process to be well-prepared and equipped to meet with Him every day.
I loved her visual explanation of Jesus waiting for her in the family room, each morning, with a hot, steaming cup of coffee, just waiting to have time together with her (pg. 63). That visual was really effective--I think I needed that
visual to help get me motivated. Who could stand up Jesus for morning coffee?? It gave me a lot to think about. Prayer is more than just giving God a list of things to do or sending him a thank-you card. It is part of a relationship, during which you spend quality time in His presence and in His word . . .
. . . Throughout this book, Diane's sense of humor sparkles and draws you in to the conversation, as if you are having tea and chatting. I admit that I sometimes have a hard time getting through non-fiction because my attention wanders, but I had no problem sticking with this book.
. . . So if you feel like your prayer life is a bit stale, or you need a jump-start for some really quality prayer time with God, I highly recommend that you pick up this book! It would be an excellent choice for Bible studies too--with 16 chapters and study questions at the end of the book, participants would definitely have a lot to talk about.
"Just finished reading your book! I loved it!! I felt so convicted (that's a good thing) and I'm excited about the changes I'm making in my prayer life. Thank you SO much for sharing your story. I'm so glad Satan was not successful in his quest to keep you from the Lord. I'm so proud to say you are my friend! I can't wait to read your next book!"
- Debi Podley, Cape Coral, Florida
I really loved your book! Couldn't put it down. I have a feeling it won't be your last one. You are one talented gal!
- Doris McLain, Florida
"This book was too funny. Diane Moody is a hoot! I have read and am reading many books on prayer. I am the Intercessory Prayer Leader at our church and am always looking for a fresh way to look at prayer, a way that may inspire others to embrace the joy of communing with God. Thanks Diane, for your transparency and your witty way of telling it like it is. I plan to promote your book to the women at our upcoming retreat."
- S. Hawkins, Amazon.com
"We're all slacking to do certain things. This book gave me a great perspective on prayer. "Confessions of a Prayer Slacker" is filled with great stories of the life change a relationship with God can bring you. She has a way with humor while confirming that God is always available to hear from you. God is not keeping a track record of your wrongs. He wants to spend time with you. After reading this book I wanted to spend more time with Him. "
- Fred Weisbrodt, Nashville, TN
"In a culture that majors in numbing by distractions, Diane's book on prayer is like a splash of cold water to the face. Her sass and soberness along with highly usable takeaways won't solve all prayer questions, but they will create the appetite to taste of prayers that connect. I loved the humorous quips, the heart-tugging confessions and the 'aw, c'mon' guilt-free attitude that Diane serves up to those of us who have Prayer A.D.D. or just think the whole thing is a religious game. Be warned! Diane will have you laughing and learning and then longing to try once again to realize you are not the center of the universe. Now, I've got to pray about what I just wrote.
- Tom Tyndall, Nashville, TN
"As a homeschooling mother of four, it is very easy for me to have a litany of excuses not to have a regular, daily prayer time with God. Diane Moody's book has greatly encouraged me to meet with God daily and that prayer is a very meaningful way of developing a deep, committed, awesome relation with my Maker."
- Anne Connell, Tallahassee, Florida
"Confessions of a Prayer Slacker is phenomenal. It offered a new perspective on prayer in such a straightforward, genuine and visual way. It grabbed and kept my attention from start to finish, through both laughter and tears. You have inspired me to stop being a slacker and start praying. Thank you for making it personal."
- Cathy Weisbrodt, Nashville, Tennessee
'I've read several books about prayer over the years but this one is by far my favorite! Diane is a gifted writer who will help you uncover so many misconceptions you've picked up which have damaged your prayer life over the years. I can't tell you how many 'ah-ha' moments I had in the midst of this enlightening, inspiring read. I've been inspired to start an entire new prayer journey!
- Pete Wilson, pastor of Cross Point Community Church, Nashville, Tennessee, and author of Plan B
Written to the slacker in all of us, Diane Moody turns our "tired" into triumph by helping us clear the path to meaningful time with God.
- Nicole Johnson, Author and Dramatist with Women of Faith
"With fresh writing and transparent stories, Diane Moody has done more than craft a book. She's shared her heart in a way that I was inspired to seek to know God better, deeper. I have to admit once I started reading Confessions of a Prayer Slacker, I couldn't
read more than a few pages at a time. Why? My heart was so pricked I had to put down the book and PRAY! Success indeed!"
- Tricia Goyer, author of 24 books, including Blue Like Play Dough: The Shape of Motherhood in the Grip of God
"Diane's style is easy to read and honest. Prayer slackers beware! This book will grip your heart and challenge you to go to the next level."
- Dennis Hayford, Greater Mobile Area
FCA Director, Mobile, Alabama
"For many years, I have watched Diane's passion and commitment to prayer. Forged by fire, God has given her a deep love for prayer which is contagious! This is not your everyday, 'ho-hum' look at prayer. You will find yourself smiling . . . okay, maybe outright
belly-laughing. But you will also be challenged, motivated and (prayerfully), radically impacted in your relationship with God. Prayer-Slacker may just kick-start your conversations with God in a way no tall latte ever could!"
- Teresa Nardozzi, Director of Women's Ministries
First Baptist Church of Indian Rocks Largo, Florida
"In Confessions of a Prayer Slacker, Diane Moody's fast-paced, witty, and at times painfully honest writing vividly illustrates that having 'a prayer life' is much more than just another Christian habit or spiritual cliché. It can be a joyful and meaningful way to change your life, and those around you, forever."
- Randy Elrod, author of Sex, Lies & Religion
"I recently finished reading a book called Confessions of a Prayer Slacker by Diane Moody. My old pastor at my church in Nashville, Pete Wilson, referred to this book on his blog . . . so I completely trusted his opinion when he said that this book was a good read.
I highly suggest this book for anyone who struggles with prayer . . . This book completely inspired me to go on a new prayer journey. I have purchased a new journal . . . For the past several weeks, I have started making time in the morning before I come to work to go into our spare bedroom and spend time with God . . . It's amazing how it affects your day when you take the time to spend with God at the very beginning of your day. The book has also changed the way I pray. I can't really explain it, you'd have to read it, but it is certainly for the better." - Marcia Ramirez, Nashville
Check out Marcia's blog!
"Confessions of a Prayer Slacker" is a book that was just released on August 2, 2010 by Diane Moody. I just started reading it and I am enjoying her candidness and transparency. Thus far, I love the book.
As I began the 4th chapter I loved her insight on why it is so important to spend time daily with our Heavenly Father. Of course God knows that we love Him so the question is...why do we "have to" say it everyday? She had a great illustration/old joke that struck me. It's about a wife who complained to her husband on their anniversary saying "Why don't you ever tell me you love me?" Her husband replied with "I told you the day I married you. Nothings changed. If it does, I'll let you know" Wow!!! . . .
The beginning of this chapter reminded me of how important it truly is for my Heavenly Father to hear how grateful I am for Him each and everyday.
Read more from Shelia's blog here.
"Haven't we all thought of running away to a quiet place? Well, it turned out not to be so quiet. A good read, it was hard to put it down once I started."
- Sharon Jacob, Franklin, TN
"Don't let the title mislead you, there is more to this story than a preacher's wife who can't take the pressures of her position. You will be surprised as to the final straw that led Annie McGregor to seek solace. She represents any woman in the crushes of life. Mr. Harrison, a member of Annie's church is a despicable man that you are sure you know from your church, workplace, neighborhood or even your own family. The author weaves characters from different parts of the country and different lifestyles in an uncanny and cleaver way such as a politican from Texas, a college friend or two from the past and a doctor from Colorado. The story is filled with murder and intigue that will keep you turning pages as fast as you can. You will be surprised and at times hold your breath as the story crescendos to the end. Diane Moody has done a remarkable job and I look forward to reading more books by this author."
- Teresa Young, Naples, FL
"One rainy day my mom came home from running some errands and laid this book down on the table. I had nothing else to do so I picked it up, made some tea, and plopped down on the couch. I was sucked in at the first page. Amazingly written and fast-paced, the McGregors kept me reading at every chance I got. Ask anyone. It takes a GOOD book to keep me reading. Diane Moody did an excellent job crafting together this book. I found myself thinking about my relationship with God and how much time I spent actually listening. All-in-all I'm glad I picked up this book. It was well worth it."
- Lindsey Wilson, Nashville
"This book shows the dark side of a forced facade based on the unrealistic expectations of others. Annie's story will resonate with anyone who's been burned by church."
- Bella Street, Nashville
"RUN AWAY WITH HER!"
"Annie McGregor is married to the love of her life. She's confident he feels the same way about her, but there's his job - as a pastor he's a husband and dad second as expected by certain unruly and truly annoying characters who attend his church.
Chet and his cronies - I wondered if the author knew the same ones I did. I guess they're all over.
Annie's a good wife, mom, and Christian living through a personal crisis that's about to get worse - a lot worse. She
takes a personal sabbatical and is terribly misunderstood by her mother, the press (oh yeah - mom is a media diva!), and Chet with his posse of the pious. I really did NOT like him. Not willing to explain anything to anyone, Annie heads for the hills - well, actually a mountain cabin - where she is confident she will find rest and renewal in her relationship with God. Instead, Annie discovers the greater purpose her retreat holds for two men. For one, there is eternal value. Two others come face to face with their eternal consequences.
The Runaway Pastor's Wife introduced me to characters I felt like I knew (both good and oh so annoying!), had me guessing, and ended with what I call an excellent "Goldilocks close" - it was just right.
What does a pastor's wife "with a past" do when it comes calling? When a man with murder on his mind arrives as well, who will be Annie's cavalry?"
- Joy DeKok, Pine Island, MN
Co-authored with my friends, Dick & Debbie Church
"Cancer hurls a family's life into a storm and gives cause to remember that what we enjoy today is all we know for sure. And that adversity can bring out the best. This is a powerful story about one woman's climb . . . even higher than Everest!
- Peter Hillary, mountaineer, speaker,
and expedition leader, and son of
Sir Edmund & Lady Louise Hillary
"I was so moved by Dick & Debbie's life journey. Don't Ever Look Down should be mandatory reading for all couples dealing with cancer. The love Dick & Debbie share and their willingness to so openly tell their story is incredibly
inspiring. They are a true testament to love conquering all; even the cancer mountain."
- Danielle Knox, show host,The Balancing Act
"DON'T EVER LOOK DOWN is more than just a story; it is a guide to assist you in your own journey through the heartache of cancer. You will be touched by their honesty, hope, and yes, humor. It is an inspiring story of love and commitment that should be required reading."
- Teresa Young
Naples, FL
Breast cancer survivor
Don't Ever Look Down
"Honesty, faith and humor are woven throughout this candid book of a couple's journey through breast cancer. Every aspect of their personal and professioonal lives and experience with cancer is explored, compared and contrasted. Through it all, their love sustains them, their faith upholds them, and we are touched and blessed by what they reveal about their challenging journey."
- Barbara L. Bouton MA, FT, hospice professional
"An incredible book. I was taken on an inspirational journey. The book shares how a life-changing, life-threatening event can give us courage to be real . . . I want to share this book with those I know and love who are battling their own journey."
-Frances D. Roberson, Executive Director, Community Hospice Foundation, Rocky Mount, North Carolina
"Even though DON'T EVER LOOK DOWN is about surviving cancer together. I see it as a love story of one couple, best friends, walking the journey of cancer together, one physically, one emotionally. It's up-front, in-your-face transparent. For a husband to be filled with such compassion for his wife at what can be a life or death situation, is what us wives need and want when we face the challange of hearing the Doc say you've got the "C" word. It is so well written I could almost hear Debbie's screams of pain, and feel Dick's tears rolling down his face. It can be a wake-up call to listen and to share in the joy and pain of those we love. " - Judy Gussler, FL
Dick climbing Mt. Hood in Oregon - 2004
At Ana & Scott Church's wedding, August 2010:
Mary, Ana, Scott, Debbie & Dick
An Amazon review by Julie Saffrin:
A book that provides a circle of support and will change your life if you have, had, or know someone who has cancer.
A person doesn't live long before he or she encounters someone who has cancer. Not saying anything seems easier than saying the wrong thing. But Debbie Church, an oncology counselor diagnosed in December 2008 with Stage IIIA breast cancer who subsequently had a double mastectomy, has something to say about that. "Put your fears to rest and listen, just listen," she writes in Don't Ever Look Down.
At first, the title loosely refers to mountain-climbing, a sport about which Dick, Deb's husband, is passionate. But as the book progresses and this couple learns to face a new normal, the title takes on significance, first as it refers to Dick's protecting words to his wife once the bandages are removed and secondly, as it relates to how to take on cancer and survive it day by day.
Though this is a non-fiction book, its structure immediately brought to mind Elizabeth Forsythe Hailey's fictional, Joanna's Husband and David's Wife, where chapters alternate being written by wife and husband.
In Don't Ever Look Down, whether it's a chapter written by Debbie or one written by Dick, each is given full expression of their personal points of view in a no-holds barred way. Dick tackles such subjects as "mercy sex" and what it's like to be a pastor who has wrestled with God about the whys. He writes about questioning God with "Why her?" Dick said, "She has done nothing horribly wrong to deserve this. Would `deserving' even be a good enough reason for getting cancer, anyway?'"
Dick also isn't afraid to say when seemingly well-intending friends have gone too far. One person said that God allowed Debbie to get cancer so that He could get Dick's attention. Dick writes, "Honestly, this is very disturbing to me. I could not believe God would use the suffering of my wife just to get to me ... to teach me a lesson or something." We don't expect pastors to share their deep sorrows like that, yet because Dick was willing to walk and talk about being in a hard place, we, as readers, are given permission to, too. His chapters really give a male perspective, wisdom and counsel to a subject that is often not addressed in self-help cancer books.
Debbie's words are a day-by-day guide to what survival looks like. She also writes of others under her counsel who had cancer and how she coached them through each stage of the disease. She is not afraid to say what she's thinking. When you read Debbie's chapters, she writes in such a beautiful way, that she reaches out to the reader to guide and offer wisdom, even if a reader does not have cancer.
The Churches' children, Scott and Mary, are also given an opportunity to tell what it feels like when a parent gets cancer.
(continued on next page)
Daughter Mary and son Scott
Saffrin review (continued):
Certainly the book is for other cancer fighters and for those who are looking to help them as the book tackles telling other family members, gives practical ways for people to come alongside their loved ones and ways to help them. That Debbie is an oncology counselor adds to the credibility of the book; she tells the reader about what to expect and goes a long ways toward alleviating the unknowns and fear. Deb writes in Chapter 11, "Perhaps the best way to combat fear is to take definitive action. Do something that puts you back in control."
But this book is also for the everyday reader. Especially readers who:
- are looking to be more compassionate,
- want to learn how to grapple with fear,
-are a caregiver to someone who has cancer,
-are wanting someone who has been through the cancer trenches to give it to you straight yet in a way that is tender-hearted,
-are a husband and want camaraderie in how to love your spouse,
- want to strengthen your marriage,
-want to know more about how to live, heartfelt and ankle- deep, in the human condition.
This little book is bighearted in content and takeaway; you will benefit from adding it to your library."
- Julie Saffrin, Excelsior, MN
Debbie and her co-author
If you're looking for a modern Jane Austen novella with dashes of humor, romance, and tea, Tea With Emma delivers! So drink deep of this doily-covered romance and when you're done, whip up a batch of scones (recipe included!) for the perfect way to spend a cozy afternoon. Ahhh, perfect!
- Sally Wilson, TN
This is a very sweet romance. A story within a story which held my attention all the way through. The author also added some very tasty looking recipes at the end. Reading this was very nice way to spend a summer afternoon. - K. Sprout, Washington State
I absolutely love the premise of the Teacup Novellas series - a collection of teacups, each with its own story. In Tea With Emma, the author weaves a delightfully sweet and sunny Austen-esque tale in Austin, Texas that combines a British professor of English literature,
a tea-room opening and a lovingly meddlesome matchmaker-wannabe who nearly misses the perfect match under her very nose. A charming, fun read -- I definitely recommend it!
- SLA "Grace Dancer" Texas
I'll be upfront with you - Diane is a friend, but there's more to our story than that - I'm also a fan of her writing. I love to do favors for friends. . .however this review is not that. This review is about a fresh voice in the fiction world and about a story so engaging I put the work I love to do on hold so I could finish it.
Maddie Cooper is a woman with a big dream inspired by a trip to England and she's not about to let anyone stop her from making that dream come true. Not even a grumpy new neighbor with a great accent - no matter how handsome he might be.
If you're looking for a fast and fun read, I highly recommend Tea With Emma. On every page Diane combines England, Texas, tea, romance, and a touch of faith with an elegant ease. - Joy DeKok, MN
Even though this book was written for those much, much younger than I am, I could not put it down. I loved Laura and Frank and the family dynamics. The gathering around Jackson's bedside was so emotionally stirring. Then I laughed till I could not breathe at the sports car incident at the Sonic Drive-In. The author once again gave me a fun read with a happy ending.
- T. Young, FL
We've all spun fantasies of being noticed by a 'boy in the band, and Blue Christmas not only delivers on the fantasy, but weaves an inspiring, faith-filled story sure to cure any holiday 'blues'. Such a fun read--just insert your own band crush no matter what the generation and revel in the sweet nostalgia!
- Sally Wilson, Salem, OR
In Blue Christmas, Diane Moody's latest release, old man is giving Hannah grief on Christmas Eve. (Think Scrooge) A moment later, the woman behind him in line rescues Hannah and changes her life forever.
Blue Christmas keeps up this toe-tapping pace clear to the end.
Hannah is invited into the world of rock and roll when she is introduced to her favorite band - a place many girls dream about, but few see. The author offers readers a fresh look at what it might be like between members of a musical team who truly care about each and are influenced by real faith.
Moody reveals the faith of her characters gently - no preaching here although I'm pretty sure Marissa (one of the characters I'd love to have a cup of coffee with) is capable of moving both hearts and mountains if given a chance to share her beliefs. The author knew her characters well and revealed their faith to readers so authentically, it felt real. I found myself thinking, "I know a kid like that."
I enjoyed Hannah very much, and found Laura to be the kind of strong woman I'd like to be, but I found myself drawn to the loyalty and sparkle of Kylie. And, the author included a vixen in a lipstick red dress - just when you think all is well - it is not.
While Blue Christmas is a fun, holiday romance, it is more. I could tell you all about that, but I'd rather you read the book and tell me what you discover between the delightfully designed cover or on the backlit pages of your e-Reader.
Click HERE to read Joy's fun blog post about those "boys in the band" . . . thanks for the post, Joy!
SO. MUCH. FUN!
