Captivating Revised and Updated: Unveiling the Mystery of a Woman's Soul

Great read if you’ve struggled with feeling worthy. The first time I read it in 2009 I couldn’t relate at all, then after my divorce, it helped me a lot to see my value. But now in 2024 after a lot of life, it’s helped me heal a lot of areas even just to forgive my parents my siblings not because they had done something blatant but because they didn’t know how to show value the way girls need it.

"I wish every man and woman would read this book." is an exact quote from my review of  Wild at Heart Revised & Updated: Discovering the Secret of a Man's Soul  by John Eldredge...a book I also gave 5 stars. After a few weeks and upon placing my selfishness aside...I realized I would be a hypocrite if I didn't read "Captivating: Unveiling the Mystery of a Woman's Soul", a book about women's souls written by both his wife, Stasi and John. If you are a male reading this review, you have read, "Wild at Heart" and you think women should read "Wild at Heart"...then guess what? Yep, stop thinking about reading this book and read it.After having read both books, I see, think and respond to women differently now...in a good way. I am beginning to understand why I have failed as a man in the past with my relationships with women...that one is worth giving this book 5 stars alone. Yet there is so much more in Stasi's book. The descriptions of the meaning of Beauty in both form and spirit will enlighten the soul. What it is...where it flows from...how we see and feel Beauty...the essence of a woman. Her husband John begins the introduction with this statement, "Now we are on holy ground." Yep...and every male understands the power of that statement. Again, Dudes...read this book...it will help your existing relationship, help you with the one destined for you along your path and help you to relate to all women in general.This is a full on Christian book, but do not let that stop you from purchasing it. If like me, you do not like Christianity or any religion shoved in your face unsolicited, you might approach this book with caution. That is fear welling up in your soul...I too was cautious having read "Wild at Heart", but I love that book too. Be courageous and read the book. The authors can be at times in your face with their personal beliefs, but the message is genuine gold with a purity of spirit worth reading and taking to heart. Leave Religious preconceptions behind when you begin your journey upon these pages and discover the true Beauty of Women unveiled to you. If you are on the other end of the spectrum...a full-on, in-your-face-angry-bible-thumper...then strap yourself in, 'cuz this book might challenge your understanding about God's relationship with women on many levels.A side note which bugs me...why on earth would they put John's name first on the cover since they both state in the book that Stasi wrote most of this one? It's an ego-artist thing with me I suppose and has nothing to do with chauvinism.

Having read Eldredge's The Sacred Romance, I was interested to see how this book, (an examination of the role of women), would compare. I was pleasantly surprised by the beautiful truths expressed in this wonderful book. Many reviews on this book are diverse, (some outright critics expressing venomous derision and others spouting praise). Here is my opinion for what it's worth:I loved this book because of its honest look at our wounded hearts. The author's maintain that every woman possesses three deep-rooted cravings: the desire to be romanced, the desire to unveil beauty and the desire to be part of a glorious adventure. Whether we want to admit it or not, these desires are entrenched within us, and they reflect our Creator, for we are made in His image. Since the Fall, these desires have been smothered, and we cannot be fully whole until they are fulfilled. I loved how the author's illustrate that a woman is essential to God's plan. Eve was created to be Adam's helper and sustainer, to stand with him and play a pivotal role.Though chilling, the author's emphasis on why Satan tempted Eve was mesmerizing to read. The assumption that Satan nurses a fierce grudge against women because we somehow encroach upon his pride, (I.E., our beauty reminds him of who he once was), is amazing. I'm not sure if I totally agree with this theological assertion, yet it is impossible to deny that women have endured unspeakable cruelty throughout history. This book illustrates how God is the One who can truly affirm a woman's worth. He is the One who gives us the strength to fulfill our purpose, to glorify Him and to make a difference. He rescues us from ourselves and from our enemy, the one who bears a profound hatred for us.Some reviewers have stated that Scriptures are taken out of context. Allow me to say that Song of Solomon is indeed a book about the intimate joy between a husband and wife, (the Eldredge's make this clear in Chapter Seven), but the call of the Lover to His Beloved is God's call to us all. And, where Hosea is indeed a prophetic book about Israel's redemption, the prophet himself was called to marry an idolatrous and adulteress wife. Chapter 2 of that book is a picture of God thwarting Israel in her rampant quest for fulfillment without Him, (just as Gomer runs away from Hosea, Israel runs from God). The same chapter also depicts God as a wooer, (and Hosea redeems his wife from the slave market). These truths apply to each and every one of us. Why else would they be recorded in Scripture? So, these verses are not out of context. They are being applied to all our souls.Regarding the movie references: contrary to other reviewers aversion to them, I found the illustrations to be very enlightening. The movie references show us that all culture reflects our Creator, (whether intentionally or not), and that the inherent truth of our need for a Savior is reflected in everyday life. The author's examine many biblical women, (my favorite examinations are those of Eve and Ruth), showing how those who trust in God can boldly fulfill their destiny. Please give this riveting book a chance. It is not meant to be a substitution for the Bible but a tool to point people to the One who seeks to lead us in an unforgettable dance. God bless you all.

This is one of my favorite books. It is so beautifully written and gave me so much to think about. I would definitely recommend this book!

If you ever wondered“am I enough?”“Am I too much? ““Why am I the way that I am? “Read this to have those questions answered and SO much more.Reliable, scripture based guide to a woman’s heart and spirit.

Este libro me abrió los ojos en mi fe, es hermoso y sanador lo que dice, en verdad no puedo recomendarlo mas

Someone else wrote in a review - don't even think about it - just buy it. I absolutely agree with that statement. I read the book very slowly as there was so much to take in and then to process in relation to my own life. It moved me forward from being stuck in an emotional rut, and now, reading it for a second time - it still has immense value.

This book helped change my life. What we have to offer especially our love and kindness is so needed. No one can be you in the world.

Helpful to any woman to discover who she is.Helpful to any guy who hasn't yet worked out why women do what they do. Which is all of us.