Secretly Scared Control Freaks Like Us - Seriously Good News for Stressed-Out

I'm turning myself inside out some days trying to live this one life well. In the process of becoming, God twists this old heart and wrings out the muck and sometimes I say to myself, "you've got issues, girlfriend."

I mean really, haven't we all?

Our insecurities and the trap of comparison, perhaps our silent anger and desperate need for control knock us all out of shape daily-hourly-minute by minute as life comes at us fast and relentless.

How can we get past this, I wonder. How can I learn to let it go-once and for all?

I can give you the Sunday school answer, that is, trust in Jesus. And that's the true answer, but when you've got trust issues and you've spent your life compensating by controlling whatever you can get your hands on, at some point you realize, you've got issues. You know from experience, you can't do it on your own-so how then?

You have to lay it down and let Christ do the heavy lifting. He's strong enough and powerful enough to transform even the most desperate of women.

Does this sound like you? Nicole Unice has a book for you-and a DVD. I recently spent some time watching and reading through Unice's latest group study curriculum entitled, She's Got Issues: With Seriously Good News for Stressed-Out, Secretly Scared Control Freaks Like Us: A DVD Group Experience and it's good, friends, really good.

The journaling exercises and discussion questions provide an excellent springboard for jump starting the thought process as you beginning to seek Christ's healing and hope for overcoming your issues.

The women featured to share their stories are real and accessible.
Nicole leads the women on an inspiring journey through scripture and other life stories to help them examine their issues and discover how victory is possible through Christ.

If you struggle with:

fear
insecurity
control
anger
unforgiveness
surrender
(as well as a few other issues) then there something here for you to grow from.

I received this DVD curriculum for free for the purpose of my review. The opinions expressed here are fully my own.

Recently I was given the opportunity to have a sneak peek at Nicole Unice's new Bible study called She's Got Issues: Seriously good news for stressed-out, secretly scared control freaks like us. And I do suggest checking out the book website! She's got video snippets you can watch on each chapter of the book and it really gives you a great idea on what the book is all about!

So, I saw the title and thought, "Hey, she wrote this just for me!" It was like she had been a fly on the wall in my house! I do have some control issues, but who doesn't? We each have something that we like to feel in control of! But this book is so much more. It's not just about control. It's about struggles with control, insecurity, comparison(and who doesn't compare themselves to someone or something?), fear, anger, unforgiveness and more.

I truly enjoyed this book. It really makes you see that it's not up to YOU to change yourself. There are some things you just can't change. That's where Jesus steps in! I love how Nicole makes it OK to talk about issues. Everyone has some kind of issue. Most of the time it seems like taboo to actually talk about them! Nicole is so down to earth in her writing and on the video. It truly is OK to talk about our issues and how Jesus can set us free!

I personally love the video. Each part has something that really speaks to me and really hit home. The book is full of scriptures and the love of Jesus that empowers us to break free of our issues and live how He truly wants us to live. I really enjoyed this study and hopefully I can use it to do my own study with some ladies at church sometime soon!

I was given the She's Got Issues curriculum for free from Tyndale. I was not required to give a positive review and all opinions are my own.

I immediately connected with Nicole! I love how honest she is in She's Got Issues: Seriously Good News for Stressed-Out, Secretly Scared Control Freaks Like Us. She used herself frequently as a negative example. One of the biggest turn-offs for me is when an author only uses themselves as a positive example, trying to hold themselves up as a perfect image. None of us are perfect. I'm about as far from perfect as a person can get, so I don't like reading about people who think they've made it there without me. ;)

"Finally I stole away for sixty seconds of luxurious "me" time: just enough to hurriedly brush my teeth in peace. But as all mothers know, the click of the bathroom lock is the signal for a code-red emergency to break out. On this morning, it was my daughter's unsuccessful search for a pair of matching socks.
'Mama, I need socks!'
'Mommy, I can't find my purple and white socks. Mommy!'
'MOMMY, I need help! MOMMY, where are you? MOMMY!'
'MOMMMMMYYYY!!!"
I spit into the sink and screamed so loud that my voice scratched as if it were coming from a blown speaker. 'BEEEEEeeeeeeee PAaaaaaaTIENT!!!!'
At that moment, I caught a panoramic view of myself in the triple bathroom mirrors. With toothpaste on my lip, hair scrambled on top of my head, and a wild look in my eye, I screamed 'Be patient!' like a woman possessed. The mirrors captured the irony of my statement in triplicate. I began to wonder how my own issues were becoming my kids' issues. Ouch."

Come on. Who doesn't relate to that?!

Nicole touches on issues in our lives that are sort of shoved to the back burner. We don't take them as serious issues, because we've simply accepted them as a normal part of our lives. She's Got Issues tackles our issues of comparisons, anger, fear, control, unforgiveness, and insecurity. I struggle with ALL of those, some more than others!

"There is a stubborn streak in me that wants to set my world in motion all by myself, that believes I truly know what is best for myself. It is the part of me that wants the world to rotate around me-my needs, my whims, my desires. This force has been kicking in me since I was born. And it's not dead yet."

I can't even tell you how much I needed this book! *IF* I were a hugging person, I'd give Nicole a giant hug for writing it. ;) The chapter on fear has made a HUGE impact on me.

I think you can tell that I HIGHLY recommend She's Got Issues. HIGHLY(!!!!) But, I'm going to give some of you a couple of "warnings". One, there's a somewhat positive reference to "The Shack". I despise that book with every fiber of my being! I know some of you feel the same way as me about that. It's only one little sentence, though. I've made notes about my dislike of the book(in my book) in case anybody else ever sees it. Two, this book was definitely written for the "modern" woman. I don't consider myself one of them, but it didn't bother me at all. There's song lyrics from popular artists, references to modern day television shows I don't watch, and there's even a smartphone scan thingy at the end of each chapter. I don't have a smartphone, nor do I have any intentions at the moment of getting one, so I had to laugh a bit when I saw it at the end of the first chapter. It made me realize how behind the times I really am. I'm okay with that, though. Again, all that stuff didn't bother me a bit, but I know it might for some of you.

I think this book is awesome for ANY woman. Period. (teenagers, unmarried women, married women, mothers, elderly, EVERYONE) But, I think it pretty awesome for social phobia sufferers, as a bit more specific. The comparisons, fear, anxiety....it comes with the territory. So while I recommend it to all women, I definitely recommend if you have social phobia to pick it up!

*A HUGE thank you to Tyndale for my review copy in exchange for my honest opinion.

Christian counselor, ministry leader, and regular mom Nicole Unice shines on video in this inspiring seven-session She's Got Issues DVD Curriculum--perfect for churches and small groups. As she does in the book, Nicole talks candidly about how the everyday issues that drive you crazy affect you . . . and why you don't have to settle for letting them win. Some days living up to the whole good-Christian image seems impossible. You do the right things (well, most of the time), but you just don't feel changed by your faith. Deep down, you're still dealing with the ordinary struggles--control, insecurity, comparison, fear, anger, and unforgiveness--that hold you back from living free and loving well. The good news? You don't have to "fix" yourself. You have access to the power of Christ. His power can transform your everyday weaknesses into your greatest strengths and gifts. (Curriculum includes leader's guide and group handouts.) What are your biggest challenges?
Do you have issues?
How do others see you?
How do you see yourself?
This book focuses in depth on 5 main issues that most women struggle with, along with helpful suggestions and explainations written in a counselor's voice. Women's stories and authors included are brought into the chapters to show how others can identify with the issues being presented and what they have gone through. Also how Jesus fits into all of our issues and challenges (short comings). Included are personal assessments and self evaluation questions with group answers, prayers and topics for group discussions.

The target audience is women. Some chapters I was able to relate to, others not so much. Each reader can pick and choose which issues, or all of them, she feels needs addressing in her life. The assessment questions were beneficial in addressing my issues. I found this to be a very faith inspiring book and would recommend this book to others.

This book was so helpful! Unice touches on five areas that women frequently struggle with that she has dealt with in her private counseling sessions. It was reassuring to me to read that I am not alone in the issues that I struggle with. These areas that she pinpoints are anger, insecurity, comparing, anger, and unforgiveness. The book is set up where each topic is discussed in two chapters, the first to define it and the second to help readers cope with that issue through Scripture.

From start to finish this was book was user-friendly, relevant, and insightful. I loved the was Unice described how these issues negatively impact our lives. I loved the journaling exercises, they were short enough to complete quickly, but focused enough to prompt ongoing reflections. I also enjoyed using the smartphone codes and the youtube links. Very interactive!

I also thought the assessments were focused and helpful. Even if my score was mostly in the middle, Unice included in her discussion people that share characteristic with each group, so each section was relevant to me.

This is an excellent book that I highly recommend. I love her suggestion to use it in a small group study. I will definitely encourage others to get a copy of this book!

This is a full DVD / book curriculum made for six sessions for a women's small group Bible study. The group experience package includes candid interviews, individual journaling prompts, group discussion, and insightful and Biblical teaching from beloved author, Nicole Unice. Each of the six sessions is meant to be one hour long, and incorporates independent reading and study between sessions. Unice touches on six main issues women deal with on a regular basis:

Control
Insecurity
Comparison
Fear
Anger
Unforgiveness

Being a Bible Study veteran, I get skeptical when it comes to new curriculum authors. I mean, who tops Kay Aurthur and Beth Moore, right? Well, I was charmingly surprised! Unice is spot on throughout the entire course. She speaks as a real life mom and wife, living in our real world. Even though she does challenge the listener to become unchained from their "issues"; she does so in a biblical, loving and humorous way that's very pleasing. She's incredibly candid in her book, admitting to things that I've done and wouldn't never share with anyone, let alone the world. You can hear the Holy Spirit speaking through her, as she opens her heart to what God needs every woman to know. She teaches you how to live free from the issues, and learn to love well. Really well.

Check out the trailer below...

(I received this book free from the Tyndale Blog Network as part of their blogging program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.")

I had the pleasure of reviewing Nicole Unice's great book She's Got Issues back in July. Tyndale House Publishers then gave me the opportunity of reviewing the companion DVD Group Study. So glad they did.

I consider myself a connoisseur of DVD Bible Studies. I have lead a bi-weekly women's Bible Study for the past five years. We have enjoyed Beth Moore, Kay Arthur, Priscilla Shirer, Ann Graham Lotz, Angela Thomas, and Jennifer Rothchild. So I reviewed this new DVD study through that lens.

I have to say, I loved it. I can't wait to schedule this one for our women's group.

I really liked the format. The first 10 minutes of the video lesson is an interview with one women who has struggled with that lesson's topic (control, insecurity, comparison, fear, anger or unforgiveness). Then the group is encouraged to privately journal on some provided question prompts. Then Nicole teaches on the topic for about 15 minutes. Finally there are great discussion questions to allow for everyone in the study to get involved and share.

Nicole's style to really easy to watch and listen to.

The topics in this DVD are relevant and the teaching has good 'meat on the bone'. I am pretty tough on women's studies that are what I call, too fluffy. This isn't one of them. While the teaching is brief by Beth Moore standards it's solid. Plus these issues require discussion so the extra time is great. Ideally the study should be about 1.5 hours a session to get the most from the DVD and discussion.

So this one gets a big thumbs up from me.

Tyndale House provided this DVD to me in exchange for an unbiased review.)

She's Got Issues

by Nicole Unice

"Seriously good news for stressed-out, secretly scared control freaks like us"

This book & DVD set were given to me by Tyndale House Publishers for an honest review. My comments are my own.

"Standing on my porch with a dish towel on one shoulder and a burp cloth on the other, I knew in the deepest part of my soul that this could not be the 'life to the full' that Jesus promised".

Nicole Unice is a Christian counselor, ministry leader, and mom. She lets us know plenty about where she's been and how she came to bring this book to life. She helps us understand where she's coming from, which in turn lets you feel more comfortable when reading the book, almost like she right there talking with you one-on-one.
She explains about who you are, a King or a Pawn; groups in which control, or lack of, places us. Surprisingly, I wasn't the one I thought I was! There are different, dare I say, fractures, layers, to what makes one a King or Pawn.
She helps us figure out why we are the way we are, what got us there, what happens while we are there, and how to deal with it. Not necessarily how to stop or 'fix' it, but how to control it to better suit our needs. And we have the access to the power of Jesus Christ to help us through it!

This 14 chapter (great for study groups) book will walk you through a part of your life that you had no idea needed tweaking.

ISBN 978-1-4143-6510-7
Christian Life/Women/Spiritual Growth
Includes Quizzes and other personal assessment tools
Copyright 2011, 2012
[...]
[...]

In She's Got Issues, counselor and mom Nicole Unice takes a look at five (and a half) common issues: control, insecurity, comparison, fear, and anger (along with its cousin, unforgiveness). She says that all women struggle with at least one of these problems and some of us deal with more than one of them. I know I have them all, although some are not as big of a deal as others. I enjoyed the way she has a couple of chapters to dig more indepth with each category, and that she includes quizzes and other personal assessment tools. Some of the personal stories made me chuckle, and a few made me cringe...when I recognized my own behavior.

There is a dvd group experience that goes along with the book to make this an excellent small group Ladies Bible Study. I also found a Participation Guide online. So with these tools, along with your Bible, a journal, and a pen...you are all set up to begin to confront the issues that are holding you back in your relationship with God, others, and with yourself. Naturally, she doesn't promise that we will resolve all, or become little robots (no visions of becoming like The Stepford Wives, please), but Nicole does help you discover renovate and refine the person you are.

In compliance with the Federal Trade Commission, I want to say that I received complimentary copies of the materials used for this review from Tyndale House Publishers. I was not required to make a favorable review, but only asked for my opinion.

Anyone near me might have heard me talking to myself as I read She's Got Issues: Seriously Good News for Stressed-Out, Secretly Scared Control Freaks Like Us by Nicole Unice. There was so much in there that I could relate to in this book. I have dealt with and sometimes I still deal with control, insecurity, comparison, fear, anger and unforgiveness.

Here are some quotes that I had to write down in my journal:

"The ability to see yourself clearly is crucial in your relationship with Christ and in your subsequent ability to serve well."

"To follow Jesus is to agree to change. That's the cost required of us."

"What if we began to think of our insecurities not as shameful places to hide but as opportunities to see God working in our lives?"

"There's nothing like comparison to keep us distracted from our own gifts."

The author gave a great visual on the need for taking a mental space bar. She showed us words without any space. The words lost their meaning without a space between words. In the same way, our life needs to have space so it can make sense. Our lives can lose its meaning without taking a pause. At the end of each chapter, she has a space bar moment for us to reflect on what we read with a prayer, a journal exercise and group discussion questions.

I was reminded of a few things as I read this book. I should put my anchor in God and not in temporary things like my appearance or achievements. At all costs, I need to avoid the comparison trap because it hinders my life with Christ. If I compare myself to others then I am not content with what God has given me. I will start to resent my life. Anger is a powerful emotion and I need to handle it carefully to avoid harming others with my words or actions. I have much to "chew" on and prayerfully consider what to do now.

This is a good read for any woman. If you combine it with the DVD group experience you can grow with other women to find your strength in Christ.

The book and DVD was given to me for free from the Tyndale Blog Network. All opinions expressed are my own.

She's Got Issues by Nicole Unice the author brings to your attention those basic issues that you have that keep you from living your life to the fullest. She's Got Issues goes over 5 and a half issues that are most common for women to deal with. These issues are control, insecurity, comparison, fear, and anger (along with unforgiveness ). Each issue is given two chapters. The first chapter defines the issue and the second chapter explores how to deal with it.

This is not a book for the faint of heart. It really pushes you to face the issues you are dealing with and explore and helps you realize that they are holding you back. We have to lean on God to get over these issues and really put our trust in Christ. I really felt like I could relate to many of the stories in the book, and I really enjoyed the examples. This book would be terrific for a women's group and even includes discussion questions at the end of each chapter. This tool is effective even just for yourself as it helps you to really ask yourself the tough questions.

I really enjoyed this book and really felt like it helped me see what I need to work on!

I received this book from Tyndale House Publishers for free in exchange for my honest opinion.

Over the past several weeks, including vacation, I have been reading a book by Nicole Unice - She's Got Issues. I loved the subtitle: seriously good news for stressed out, secretly scared control freaks like us. I'm not one to typically read books about women's issues, but when I had the chance to review this one for Tyndale House Publishers, I couldn't resist.

True confession. I have loved this book. Not every issue has been something I could relate to but there's a lot here to chew on. Her counseling background and pure honesty makes this read feel like you are sitting with a good friend.

Her approach in tackling the various topics is to first write a chapter on the issue (e.g., The Comparison Game) and then the follow up chapter is about some practical solutions (e.g., Quitting the Comparison Game). She addresses control, insecurity, comparison, fear, anger, and unforgiveness. In each core chapter there is a quiz to see where you stand on the issue being discussioned. I really appreciated how she took answers to specific questions and then linked them to more specific issues in order to help the reader better understand what it all might mean. Each chapter concludes with thoughtful questions that are great for journaling or group discussion.

I have more to say on this terrific book...perhaps a blog post on each topic.

(This book was provided to me by Tyndale House for an unbiased review.)

In She's Got Issues, Nicole Unice teaches women how God can help them overcome common issues including control, insecurity, comparison, fear, anger and unforgiveness.

I think Nicole did a good job of accurately identifying the traps that befall many women. I often found myself nodding in recognition of what she described!. Perhaps more importantly, she offers solid ways to deal with the identified problems. I thought she struck a good balance between emphasising the role of God's work and power in us and the things we need to put effort into. I was particularly encouraged by her explanation in chapter 6 of what Christ has done for us.

One of the things that stands out as particularly helpful is the self assessments. Near the start of each most chapters there is a series of questions designed to make you aware of how you might be experiencing the issue being discussed. I found these questions quite convicting and made it a bit easier to work out where to start applying. There is also some worthwhile discussion/journaling questions and suggested prayers at the end of each chapter.

Although the book deals with some tough issues, it isn't a heavy read. Nicole is quite a witty and engaging writer, as is obvious in chapter titles like "I'm not controlling (I just like my latte extra hot) and many amusing real life anecdotes.

I think all Christian women will find something helpful in this book. I'll be reading it again.

Review copy courtesy of Tyndale

Nicole Unice has written a book that every woman should read. "She's Got Issues" strips away the veneer of perfection we all cling to, revealing the unique, complicated beauty that we all bear. Most refreshing, Nicole shares her own struggles with 'good girl-ness'. Her own personal testimony just adds to the impact of the book.

Topics tackled within the pages are very familiar, at least to me: insecurity, control, and the incessant need to compare myself to just about anyone and everyone I meet. Each chapter is packed with Scripture, closes with a prayer (Nicole calls these "Space Bar"s, and has a few questions for you to journal and/or discuss in a small group.

One of the most unique features is a smartphone code at the end of each chapter that links you to videos from Nicole about what you've just read. I used my iPod to access a few, and they truly add an extra dimension to the book! Technology...isn't it just amazing these days!

I received a copy of "She's Got Issues" from Tyndale Publishing in exchange for an honest review, and I honestly believe this is a valuable resource for women of all ages. In fact, pass this one along to some of the younger women in your circle of influence. If they can get the message early on...oh, the freedom they will walk in! Recommended.

She's Got Issues
(Seriously good news for stressed-out, secretly scared control freaks like us)

By

Nicole Unice

Published by Tyndale House Publishing 2012

253 pages

Book Chapters:

Cheap Plastic Souls
More than Mediocre
I'm Not Controlling
Surrendering the Kung-Fu Control Grip
Insidious Insecurity
Attaching Your Anchor
The Comparison Game
Quitting the Comparison Game
Know Fear: no Fear?
The Big Leap from Fear to Freedom
Anger Is for Fools Like Me
How to Change a Wicked Witch
Unforgiveness: Uprooting the Bitter Weed
Living the Love

DVD Curriculum Sessions:

Control
Insecurity
Comparisons
Fear
Anger
Unforgiveness

This book came about through Nicole's contemplation about what makes her different from other people as a Christian...as she struggles with the same issues as everyone else. She gives us three reasons the book and curriculum might be good for you:

1. You feel like you don't know yourself well.
2. You feel empty or numb inside.
3. A closer look at how you deal with conflict says you may have some issues.

She assures us that we are all messed up...every single one of us have issues and that unlike many self-help books that instruct us to do this and do that in order to change, we cannot change ourselves...but God and His spirit within us can change our hearts.

In Nicole's own life journey she needed an AHA moment to experience what it looks like to have the spirit of God working inside of her, as the world rewards us for being control freaks and yet her life felt out of control. Through her warm and friendly teaching, she tells us that God sees how hard we try to manage our lives without him

This book and DVD curriculum cover the topics of control, insecurity, comparisons, fear, anger and unforgiveness with such depth that this is an invaluable resource. In order to gain the most insight from this study, one should take the time necessary to go through it with a deep and sincere commitment. Nicole is full of invaluable wisdom from the spirit of God.

By learning to accept that you have issues...even though you are a Christian (that we are all flawed, imperfect beings), we can plug into what's right about ourselves, how God wants to work within us, and understand how our issues affect those around us.

I love, love, love this program....
5 stars.

She's Got Issues. Never heard that one before, right?

I've not only heard it before, but I have to admit that I've said it about people a time or two. But hey, I've said it about myself, to myself, maybe a gazillion times or two. Admit it, you know you've got issues. Who of us doesn't. If you don't have any, please email me,and let me know. We've all got our issues! Most of us just don't let people know about them, if we can help it.

In "She's Got Issues" author Nicole Unice explores five (and a half) everyday issues that can hold you back from living free and loving well:

*control
*insecurity
*comparison
*fear
*anger (along with its cousin, un-forgiveness)
Nicole is a mom, ministry leader, counselor, and friend, who has spent over a decade studying and teaching about the way women relate to God.

I wanted to review this book because of the topic and the author. I like the fact that she's not a clinical psychologist but a Christian woman, and a blogger who reminds you more of a next door neighbor. Someone who shares her issues and discoveries with you.

These issues steal our joy and keep us living in self-doubt and confusion. Who needs that, right? Nicole reminds us that the power of Christ can transform us. As Christians, we don't face these issues alone, we have access to the power of Christ.
The important, game changing point is that we decide to face them. We teach our children that ignoring a problem never makes it go away. Isn't it time we followed our own advice. We don't have to keep feeling like we're never living up to what others think or even what we think, we should be. Nicole shares with us, her search in dealing with her issues.

My hope is that other women, like me, will pick up a copy of this book and use is a guide tool. Sometimes the problems we think we have are so overwhelming because we've spent so much time wringing our hands over them. If we could just step back and look at them through someone else's eyes, we'd be able to see how insignificant they really are. Let's take the power away from the mind gremlin and give it to Christ where it belongs.

I also, really like the quizzes and other personal assessment tools that were included in this book. I recommend it for anyone who struggles with self-worth issues. Yeah, I'm talking about you.

The DVD and book are fantastic and full of information that is essential for all of us stressed out women. Nicole has a way with words and is able to bring faith into the book in a way that is not pushy and she made me think about my life. Chapter 7 "The Comparison Game" is an excellent chapter and discusses how we are constantly comparing ourselves to other people. She includes a assessment to find out where we fit in and how we can change our lives. According to the scores Nicole is able to provide us with insight and wisdom on how we can change the way we look at our selves and others.
All of the sessions on the DVD are short, easy to follow and just makes sense. The DVD discusses six major topics that include: Control, Insecurity, Comparisons, Fear, Anger and Unforgiveness. The DVD complements the book and I utilized the book when watching the DVD. I recommend that you obtain both the book and the DVD so you can get more information on the topic she is discussing.

What are your biggest challenges?
Do you have issues?
How do others see you?
How do you see yourself?
This book focuses in depth on 5 main issues that most women struggle with, along with helpful suggestions and explainations written in a counselor's voice. Women's stories and authors included are brought into the chapters to show how others can identify with the issues being presented and what they have gone through. Also how Jesus fits into all of our issues and challenges (short comings). Included are personal assessments and self evaluation questions with group answers, prayers and topics for group discussions.

The target audience is women. Some chapters I was able to relate to, others not so much. Each reader can pick and choose which issues, or all of them, she feels needs addressing in her life. The assessment questions were beneficial in addressing my issues. I found this to be a very faith inspiring book and would recommend this book to others.

I started reading, She's Got Issues: Seriously Good News for Stressed-Out, Secretly Scared Control Freaks Like Us right before my baby was born. I knew I would need some encouragement in the transitional phase right after welcoming a new baby into our lives and any book that included the phrase "...stressed out, secretly scared control freaks like us..." looked like a good pick.

It has taken me a while to get back to this book because I was too busy practicing the stressful, secretly scared control freak life style.

Each page I read was funny and engaging enough to keep reading, yet contained valuable lessons--most told in story form, again, enough to keep one reading.

The journaling prompts at the end of each chapter are engaging and the discussion questions thought provoking.

{I received this book for a free review, whether I liked the book or not, was up to me.}

So often, the real everyday issues that women face often take a backseat to the bigger issues and complexities of life. This book helps bring a fresh perspective to the challenges that many women face on a daily basis. Nicole Unice brings to the light issues that many women are reluctant to talk about because it might put a crack in the perfect armor that we try to wear. Drawing on a number of Scripture passages, she really helps draw the reader back to a biblical understanding of topics such as control, anxiety, fear, anger, and unforgiveness. It's a great book to go through slowly on your own, but would be even better to go slowly through it with a small group to really digest the book and find accountability as you begin to deal with your own issues. What a treat to read this book!

I had the privilege of reviewing She's Got Issues by Nicole Unice. This is a DVD and there is a book of the same title.

We all have issues as women. It seems we often hide the reality of these issues because we don't want others to know our struggles or that we aren't want we seem to be on the outside. In this study there are six lessons based on the issues we face as women. These issues keep us from experiencing the life God has for us. The six issues she addresses are control, insecurity, comparison, fear, anger, and unforgiveness.

Do you have trouble with any of these? As I was reading the book and watching the DVD, I was struck by how much I can relate to each them. Some I would think to myself "Oh I don't have a problem with that." Then as I got into it I could see how the issue is present in my life, either now or at some time in the past. It was refreshing to me to see how other women struggle and that God wants more for us than to continue living with these issues.

Each issue is covered in two chapters of the book. One thing I like is the questions asked at the end of each chapter that would be great for group discussion. The DVD has six sessions that go with the chapters in the book. At the beginning of each session Nicole interviews a lady about how she deals with a particular issue and what it has looked like in her life. Then it changes to a group setting where she does some teaching, sharing both stories and examples from the Bible.

I highly recommend this book and DVD for you to do as a study by yourself or with a group of ladies. I really learned a lot from it and found it very applicable and "real life."

Thank you to Tyndale for providing this book and DVD for my honest review.

Secure women are beautiful, powerful women because of their deep ability to love--not because they do it perfectly, but because they are loved by a perfect God. In her book, Nicole Unice writes how Jesus wants us to demonstrate what "life to the full" means, yet our own story is deeply affected by issues as ultimately life happens and pain does not discriminate. We hope the promise of abundant life is attainable, but we keep stubbing our toes on obstacles and issues that we don't know how to change; issues that kill our ability to love powerfully and unconditionally. Yet, healing is closer at hand once you recognize your need for it.

If you have ever wondered whether life lived with God can really change you, then Nicole welcomes you to journey through the pages of this book. She writes, as you accept your status as His beloved even in your mess, you can live His love with issues. Realizing you can't fix yourself comes with a posturing of your heart toward God through the practice of surrender and true humility that in every circumstance says, God, I need help. It's about trusting Him to shape your life and fashion you into exactly the woman He intends. To follow Jesus is to agree to change. In those private moments of surrender, we become strengthened for the public arena of our influence, and the result is a sweet freedom.

But God won't force His way in. He won't make you choose Him. He leaves this, the most important aspect of your life, up to you. Change is real and God is ready. Are you?

After reading Nicole's book and gleaning from the pages of her heart, I have been able to deal with issues in my own life and bring them to the surface, surrendering them totally to God by use of the practical applications she offers in her book and DVD group experience. From the realness of life's issues shared by women face-to-face on the DVD and the times of reflection and journaling taught in her book as well as the discussions by Nicole at the end of every chapter so readily available on my computer, I had everything essential to my success and you will too. This book and DVD curriculum offer all you need for a group setting except, of course, some delicious refreshments and a comfy couch! I would recommend this book and DVD to any group of women who are ready to choose growth and are challenged to succeed because, as Nicole sweetly states, it's built into the fiber of our souls to be reborn into Christ and to keep in step with His Spirit within us. It's not the easy path, but it's the dynamic, holy, and beautiful one!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers for review purposes.

This is a great read. This open and honest author is a mom, ministry leader and counselor, who has shared a lot of what she has learned through this book. The top 5 issues she's deals with in the book are:

*Control
*Insecurity
*Comparisons
*Fear
*Anger

Each section has a prayer and a journaling exercise for deeper study. You'll also find lots of quizzes and other personal assessment tools. But my favorite is the QR code at the end of each chapter. You simply scan it (with your smartphone) to watch a bonus video or you can visit the link online. How cool is that?

This book really delves into a lot of the issues that women face today. Many of us struggle with comparisons, fear, and feeling like your out of control. But the great news is your not alone in this walk. Christ power can transform our weaknesses and turn them into strengths and victories. Consider this real talk, and if you want to better yourself, this is a great place to start.

*Seriously good news for stressed-out secretly scared control freaks like us*

I first heard about this book through a dear friend and was immediately intrigued. When the DvD series became available through Tyndale Bloggers, I jumped at the chance to read it and review it.

I've always known that I've had a bit of a control problem (and perhaps a few other issues), but didn't realize the cause and effect of them (and all the side effects). This book helped me pinpoint the "why" behind those issues and what I could do about them. Recognizing our problems(s) is always the first step in the right direction!

Chapter 1, "Cheap Plastic Souls", got right down to the heart of the matter. I learned to identify my key issues and what was holding me back and controlling me: mainly fear, control and a bit of anger.

The more I dove into the book, the more aware I became of how commonplace my issues really are. I also realized that some of my issues are deep-rooted and have seemingly always existed and have become a part of my personality to a degree.It became apparent that all women have issues. Some are just more "hidden" than others or not as noticeable. Whatever the case, We all have to recognize our need for Christ and see how His power can transform our every day weaknesses.

This book will take you on a spiritual and emotional journey. Be prepared to be vulnerable so that you can be humbled and changed by the Lord. You can go from "control freak" to living a free, surrendered abundant life! :)

Jesus doesn't just work despite our issues or around our issues. He wants to work through our issues and mold us to be more like Him in the process. This is called sanctification...or refinement...a transforming into the likeness of Jesus.

I highly recommend reading this book with a friend or in a group setting. YOu'll gain far more from the discussion time.
I wish every young woman could read this book! I would have loved to have book like this when I was in my mid to late teens and really struggling with fears, insecurities and comparisons.

She's got issues is 14 chapters and includes quizzes and other personal assessment tools.

*********************************************************************************************
The She's Got Issues DVD series was a great addition to the book that Tyndale sent me a few months ago. Nicole Unice is not only a great writer, she is a gifted counselor. She is warm, caring and understanding as she asks questions and discusses the different issues we face and what to do about them.

I loved the "one-on-one" counseling sessions she did with various women. I found myself relating to almost all of them! I really liked hearing about the examples from her life and loved how she closed each session in prayer.
The DVD series is comfortable yet convicting too. I loved the "living room" style and the easy listening music.

There are 6 sessions totaling 160 minutes Control, Insecurity, Fear, Anger, Comparisons and Unforgiveness. There is also a special leaders participation guide which would be really helpful in a group setting.I think it would be great to do a 6 week womens' group study and have question/discussion time afterward.

You can now order the She's Got Issues DVD experience on the store here.

What woman doesn't have "issues" these days? And, what woman doesn't love to chat about her issues with her girlfriends? Nicole Unice is the perfect girlfriend to hash out issues like insecurity or anger with. Her authentic style will captivate readers as she shares very personal examples of her own issues as well as hard hitting stories from her experience as a professional counselor. She's Got Issues encouraged me to get real about my stuff through poignant Biblical truth and will bring readers from an "ordinary" life to a fully abundant life.
~Sarah Francis Martin, author and speaker for 20-somethings, Stress Point: Thriving Through Your Twenties In A Decade of Drama (Thomas Nelson, 2012)

If the number of paragraphs I highlighted in this book is any indication... then I have a lot of issues!!

I was lucky enough to receive a pre-release copy of "She's Got Issues." SO GOOD. I loved Nicole's writing voice; she is so authentic and hilarious. But she also offers discerning insight into my heart. She is honest with her own issues, and fills the chapters with truth from Scripture.

I often feel that I'm supposed to be some perfect "woman of God," and then I get discouraged that I can't seem to muster up the energy to be that.

"She's Got Issues" is freeing instead of discouraging. It helped me own my issues (you have them too!) instead of pretending they don't exist. And in that honest place, to trust Jesus to bring freedom in these "little" areas of my life that have burdened me for years.

Awesome, awesome, awesome. Read it, ladies!

Women face different issues every day, but there is help in Christ. The author wrote about five different issues- control, insecurity, comparison, fear and anger (along with forgiveness). Each issue is discussed and then there are tips to overcome the problem. I thought the book was interesting and the exercises and quizzes helpful.

Nicole has such a unique and spot-on understanding of the issues women (and men!) struggle with. I am just finishing a study of this book with a group of women; our discussions have been powerful and challenging, and filled with both conviction and hope. So many women would benefit from reading this book, either by gaining a better understanding of their own struggles, and/or by developing better insight into the challenges of their family and friends. Bring on the next book, Nicole!!

While the title alone brings an instant sense of connection and recognition, Nicole Unice takes women of all ages well beyond the world of "self-help" books. Unice invites the reader to have the courage to recognize those things that have left us with a life of inward frustration and longing for more - all while keeping an appearance of "me...what issues?" She guides us with a biblical and theological depth to a place of hope and engagement for God's transforming work in our lives for His purposes. "She Has Issues" is a book to be shared with every friend because we are all on the same journey.

Nicole Unice has issues--and she knows you do too. She understands ordinary women and the ways ordinary life can strip us of our belief that God really will do powerful work in and through us. This book emits a call to an unsettled place deep within each of us and provides a path toward abundance. Read it and rest assured: God is not limited by your issues.

Wow! I felt like Nicole picked up my personal diary and read my inner most thoughts and fears. If you are struggling with the same issues year in and year out, questioning your right to ask for God's help, this book is for you. Nicole is relevant, searingly honest, funny and direct in her attempt to help you break through the barriers holding you back from living the abundant Christian life God intended. Don't just read this book, do the work and share it with all the woman you care about. Better yet, read it together!

Nicole did an awesome job! This book is amazing and helpful for all women with issues (we all have em just need to open our eyes to admit it). If we stop trying to control every aspect of our life and let Christ in the chains that keep us wrapped up in "our way" will be broken! Great job Nicole, everyday I am learning to relinquish a little more control and live a more Christ filled life!!

For to be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Romans 8:6

Nicole is hip, hilarious, and nakedly vulnerable. Her teaching is meaty and her advice, real-world doable. That's seriously good news for you and me! Bonus: Great study helps for each chapter, a prayer, journaling exercise and group discussion questions.

This is an amazing book! If you've ever struggled with control, anger, comparison or insecurity (and who hasn't?), you must buy this book. Nicole is a fresh voice and women of all ages can relate to her. Her stories are real and I found myself saying, "That's exactly how I feel." Read it and then buy copies for your best friend, your sister, your mom and all the women in your life.

This was an enjoyable, thought provoking study, and the topic drew a lot of interest. As the study leader, though, I found myself doing a lot of extra work writing discussion questions. There didn't seem to be enough discussion material to keep us going in a small group setting. We did this with the DVD too.

Nicole's writing has always struck, inspired, and moved me, but when it all came together in this beautiful package it was as if she was inside of my head. An exhilarating must-read for any girl who has issues. (who doesn't?)

Nicole is really real and honest in her writing. She tells you how it is with such grace and imagery that places any woman right in the book. It doesn't matter if you KNOW you have issues or if you think you are one of the rare few who don't have them- you WILL relate!!

This book was life changing and something every woman should read. I didn't realize I had so many issues until I read this. It identifies issues all women face and explains exactly how to fix them and live a spirit filled life! Thank you Nicole Unice! You're genius!