What do you think?
Rate this book
A Love Story How God Pursued Me and Found Me: An Impossibly True Story
Those who grow up with the knowledge of God's love know that He is there to guide them in their life. Even in bad times, they know that God will help them see things through and come out better when the trials have ended. But what about those who have not been raised with God in their lives?
Samantha Ryan Chandler knows about living without God. Or at least she thought. In A Love Story: How God Pursued Me and Found Me, she tells her story of love, hatred, abuse, forgiveness, betrayal, greed, enlightenment, and fear. Born to a pagan mother and a former altar boy living in a land of denial, she recounts how God was involved in her life even before she knew who He was. She shares the story of her trip to the Holy Land and how her prayers at the Wailing Wall were interrupted because of a hamburger. Yes, despite her tribulations, her life has had its funny moments as well.
You'll find inspiration in A Love Story: How God Pursued Me and Found Me-and like Chandler, you, too, may find themselves pursued by God.
ebook
First published February 25, 2011
10 people are currently reading
898 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
August 11, 2012
Love Story How God Pursued Me and Found Me: An Impossibly True Story
The Book that I was anxiously waiting for to get my hands on was sent to me by the Author herself. I read the book and I feel more thankful for the waves that are tossing me right now.
It’s hard for me to express how blessed I am to have known her and the family. my name is ferew Mekonnen. Aunt Sammy and I met when God gave her the ministry that saved my life. My story is long I was severely burnt by a fire in a tiny village when I was only 3 or four years old. The fire accident damaged my right hand and some part of my body but in a culture where physical disability is believed as a curse such as mine, there was no way I could be considered a normal human being. By my own family, I was abandoned and given away to a monastery where they raised me until I was 10 or so the abuse and starvation there was rampant and drove me to the a nearby city where I became a street kid later on, I came to the capital of Ethiopia and continued the street life. I slept on the street begged, stole and did all kinds of crazy things that a child without someone to look after would do
In the mildest of that, a co-partner missionary who knew what Aunt Sammy does, finished the process for me to receive the best medical treatment that transformed my life. God used her and the family to make who I am today and all the glory goes to Him and to Him alone.
I stayed with her sister in Louisiana at the very house she grew up. The big yellow house in Washington accepted me as its own they were my real God given families from the moment I stepped on their door with Aunt Sammy. I have stayed with them for almost three years and came back to my home country when my medical visa expired it was hard for everybody for they all knew that I have no place to go to God provided me with the grace to take it all one by one. I had to re-learn my mother tongue, and live missing my family for over a decade, no phone calls or emails and by the time I made it to university; through miracles, I was able to get a hold of them all. The changes were too much to take for me and the moment I got in touch with her, she kept on writing me encouraging me to keep up the fight. I am still homeless 23 year old man who has 2 years more to graduate from one of the finest law school in eastern Africa. The help I got through Sammy and the love and prayers I now have from her, reminds me how God loves us all and wanted us to love each other in the best possible way we can
The book is a reflection how God never lets go of us. No matter the angle it comes, pain, is pain but I’ve seen with my own life that it hurts more when it is caused by the people who are supposed to protect us from it. Thankfully, God has caused it all to draw her closer to Him and I thank God for the grace He alone has given her to write it all down so others might turn unto the Lord at times like that.
It gives hope and points out not to her success or failure but how God is loveable, compassionate and that He will always guide if we trust in Him
Thank you Aunt Sammy. I love you all and it’s my prayer that more daunting emotions hunt you down to glorify God
Ferew Mekonnen Haile
The Book that I was anxiously waiting for to get my hands on was sent to me by the Author herself. I read the book and I feel more thankful for the waves that are tossing me right now.
It’s hard for me to express how blessed I am to have known her and the family. my name is ferew Mekonnen. Aunt Sammy and I met when God gave her the ministry that saved my life. My story is long I was severely burnt by a fire in a tiny village when I was only 3 or four years old. The fire accident damaged my right hand and some part of my body but in a culture where physical disability is believed as a curse such as mine, there was no way I could be considered a normal human being. By my own family, I was abandoned and given away to a monastery where they raised me until I was 10 or so the abuse and starvation there was rampant and drove me to the a nearby city where I became a street kid later on, I came to the capital of Ethiopia and continued the street life. I slept on the street begged, stole and did all kinds of crazy things that a child without someone to look after would do
In the mildest of that, a co-partner missionary who knew what Aunt Sammy does, finished the process for me to receive the best medical treatment that transformed my life. God used her and the family to make who I am today and all the glory goes to Him and to Him alone.
I stayed with her sister in Louisiana at the very house she grew up. The big yellow house in Washington accepted me as its own they were my real God given families from the moment I stepped on their door with Aunt Sammy. I have stayed with them for almost three years and came back to my home country when my medical visa expired it was hard for everybody for they all knew that I have no place to go to God provided me with the grace to take it all one by one. I had to re-learn my mother tongue, and live missing my family for over a decade, no phone calls or emails and by the time I made it to university; through miracles, I was able to get a hold of them all. The changes were too much to take for me and the moment I got in touch with her, she kept on writing me encouraging me to keep up the fight. I am still homeless 23 year old man who has 2 years more to graduate from one of the finest law school in eastern Africa. The help I got through Sammy and the love and prayers I now have from her, reminds me how God loves us all and wanted us to love each other in the best possible way we can
The book is a reflection how God never lets go of us. No matter the angle it comes, pain, is pain but I’ve seen with my own life that it hurts more when it is caused by the people who are supposed to protect us from it. Thankfully, God has caused it all to draw her closer to Him and I thank God for the grace He alone has given her to write it all down so others might turn unto the Lord at times like that.
It gives hope and points out not to her success or failure but how God is loveable, compassionate and that He will always guide if we trust in Him
Thank you Aunt Sammy. I love you all and it’s my prayer that more daunting emotions hunt you down to glorify God
Ferew Mekonnen Haile
July 29, 2016
This is a hard, yet encouraging book. A love story from God to the author, which could not have been easy to write. Ms. Chandler opens her heart and pours out her soul in this story. Another uneasy task, considering the pain involved...
Her life journey starts out with abuse dealt out by her parents, which I believe led her to marry an abusive, overly controlling, extremely wealthy man. She has lived through too many bad events and situations to list here, but the dear hubby sounds more like the closest thing to satan in skin rather than a human being.
But the story does not end here.
Having been abused and neglected her entire life, instead of letting it keep her down and drowning in a pool of self pity, she rises up to protect her self and her daughters. She relies on her inner fortitude, her hope and her strong faith in God to escape the situation, even though it resulted in Dear Hellhound leaving her and the girls homeless, penniless and without support.
But the story didn't end here either.
Rising from the ashes like the Phoenix, God restored her and that which was lost.
This book contains incredible stuff which reads like fiction, but by reading Samantha's story, you will know it's not.
It's encouraging, uplifting, and miraculous.
The author kindly provided a copy of the book for a fair and honest review.
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 Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Her life journey starts out with abuse dealt out by her parents, which I believe led her to marry an abusive, overly controlling, extremely wealthy man. She has lived through too many bad events and situations to list here, but the dear hubby sounds more like the closest thing to satan in skin rather than a human being.
But the story does not end here.
Having been abused and neglected her entire life, instead of letting it keep her down and drowning in a pool of self pity, she rises up to protect her self and her daughters. She relies on her inner fortitude, her hope and her strong faith in God to escape the situation, even though it resulted in Dear Hellhound leaving her and the girls homeless, penniless and without support.
But the story didn't end here either.
Rising from the ashes like the Phoenix, God restored her and that which was lost.
This book contains incredible stuff which reads like fiction, but by reading Samantha's story, you will know it's not.
It's encouraging, uplifting, and miraculous.
The author kindly provided a copy of the book for a fair and honest review.
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 Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
February 5, 2012
"A LONG JOURNEY FROM DISASTER TO TRIUMPH!"
A young girl from Louisiana learns quickly the true definition of the words pain and suffering. As a child, at the hands of her mother, she experiences abuse, sadness and confusing situations. As an adult, she struggles with violence, a devastating divorce, and temporary loss of her children. The same woman walked among the rich, but only found betrayal. In desperation, she searched for sanity, but only found hopeless despair. After fifteen years of Bible study, nothing prepared this woman for the life she lived. Yet, the same woman walks through a crucible of fire, becomes a stronger person, then finds peace and love. I highly recommend this uplifting book to all readers who enjoy inspirational stories, based on real life experience. Samantha Ryan Chandler penned an incredible, emotional story in which she felt she was against all odds, but survives through shattered dreams. At the end, she finds the strength to get her through a web of horror and darkness that not only lights up her own life, but the life of others who walked the same road. She encourages others to seek God's unconditional love and conveys on how to find hope, while inspiring others to hold on to the light of peace and tranquility. "A LOVE STORY:How God Pursued Me and Found Me" is as powerful as LETTERS TO GOD, as heart wrenching as NOBODY'S CHILD, and as touching as PAY IT FORWARD, with Helen Hunt.
A young girl from Louisiana learns quickly the true definition of the words pain and suffering. As a child, at the hands of her mother, she experiences abuse, sadness and confusing situations. As an adult, she struggles with violence, a devastating divorce, and temporary loss of her children. The same woman walked among the rich, but only found betrayal. In desperation, she searched for sanity, but only found hopeless despair. After fifteen years of Bible study, nothing prepared this woman for the life she lived. Yet, the same woman walks through a crucible of fire, becomes a stronger person, then finds peace and love. I highly recommend this uplifting book to all readers who enjoy inspirational stories, based on real life experience. Samantha Ryan Chandler penned an incredible, emotional story in which she felt she was against all odds, but survives through shattered dreams. At the end, she finds the strength to get her through a web of horror and darkness that not only lights up her own life, but the life of others who walked the same road. She encourages others to seek God's unconditional love and conveys on how to find hope, while inspiring others to hold on to the light of peace and tranquility. "A LOVE STORY:How God Pursued Me and Found Me" is as powerful as LETTERS TO GOD, as heart wrenching as NOBODY'S CHILD, and as touching as PAY IT FORWARD, with Helen Hunt.
November 26, 2011
Samantha Chandler is a wonderful story teller and couples that gift with her faith, allowing herself to become completely vulnerable, as she unveils the raw emotions of pain and suffering she experienced as a child at the hands of her mother and then in adulthood at the hands of a sadly abusive and controlling husband that included the temporary loss of her children.
Her story is an amazing testimony to the power of faith and human courage (sometimes strong and sometimes weakened) and a desire to grow closer to God that did not wane in the face of overwhelming adversity.
As I read her story there were many times I felt as though I should remove my sandals because it seemed as though I was walking through holy ground. After finishing the book I knew I had just walked through holy ground; the holy ground of a very special relationship between God and his child.
A must read. There is much in Samantha’s story for those struggling with life’s issues, for those struggling with faith and those whose faith is already on a solid foundation.
The Rev. Edward Fuller
Atlanta, Georgia
Her story is an amazing testimony to the power of faith and human courage (sometimes strong and sometimes weakened) and a desire to grow closer to God that did not wane in the face of overwhelming adversity.
As I read her story there were many times I felt as though I should remove my sandals because it seemed as though I was walking through holy ground. After finishing the book I knew I had just walked through holy ground; the holy ground of a very special relationship between God and his child.
A must read. There is much in Samantha’s story for those struggling with life’s issues, for those struggling with faith and those whose faith is already on a solid foundation.
The Rev. Edward Fuller
Atlanta, Georgia
July 17, 2017
A very honest, open life summary on how to handle life's ups and down. An honest and frank assessment of how faith in God should be used. Simply and honestly. Highly Recommend.
From the divine encounters with angels to the heartfelt moments of vulnerability, anyone who has ever struggled will connect with this captivating story.
From the divine encounters with angels to the heartfelt moments of vulnerability, anyone who has ever struggled will connect with this captivating story.
July 17, 2017
The author wrote this story to herself looking for God in her darkest moments, the most strenuous time being the process of her divorce from a rich and powerful man in which she lost just about everything including her children. It is a short, quick read that could be a great inspiration or provider of hope to someone going through hard times, especially divorce, or someone struggling with their faith. It also could act as encouragement to reflect on one's own life or simply provide food for thought. The author's faith and courage shines throughout the book.
What I like most about this book is that the author writes about her difficult life in a light and, at times, humorous way, but still is able to show the hard times, pain, and suffering she went through. Although the book is insightful, it is unorganized and jumps around quite a bit, especially at the end where I felt like the author found she wanted to add some things, so just stuck them at the end, rather than weave them into her story where they made sense. She does state this book was not written in the traditional way, for someone to read, but rather, written to herself which explains how the book is arranged. Nevertheless, it has been published for others to read and I believe it would be a much better read if it was more organized.
The author provided me with a copy of this book for an honest review.
What I like most about this book is that the author writes about her difficult life in a light and, at times, humorous way, but still is able to show the hard times, pain, and suffering she went through. Although the book is insightful, it is unorganized and jumps around quite a bit, especially at the end where I felt like the author found she wanted to add some things, so just stuck them at the end, rather than weave them into her story where they made sense. She does state this book was not written in the traditional way, for someone to read, but rather, written to herself which explains how the book is arranged. Nevertheless, it has been published for others to read and I believe it would be a much better read if it was more organized.
The author provided me with a copy of this book for an honest review.
October 16, 2017
What an absolutely remarkable true story. A betrayal, a heartbreaking divorce, depression and desperation, and salvation. Samantha Chandler's memoir. She experiences such brutal treatment from someone she trusted so completely, it ripped through all aspects of her life, almost leaving her broken. But with determination and a new love, she overcame. It was such a personal story, written with such honesty, humour and passion...I couldn't put it down.
Samantha Chandler found her redemption and resolve through God and her faith. But, I don't think that is her message – it doesn't have to be through faith that you find your strength. You can find your strength from many places, from those you love, from the things you love, or even from within yourself. I don't personally consider myself to be a religious person, but I was still so inspired and moved by this book. I went through some difficult times too, and it was the birth of my niece that really brought me though. I think so many people will relate to this memoir, and even find strength to live the life they choose.
Samantha Chandler found her redemption and resolve through God and her faith. But, I don't think that is her message – it doesn't have to be through faith that you find your strength. You can find your strength from many places, from those you love, from the things you love, or even from within yourself. I don't personally consider myself to be a religious person, but I was still so inspired and moved by this book. I went through some difficult times too, and it was the birth of my niece that really brought me though. I think so many people will relate to this memoir, and even find strength to live the life they choose.
October 16, 2017
What a fantastic book this is. So often you hear of a book that’s supposed to be uplifting or rewarding or whatever, and it ends up being much of a muchness that you’ve read many times before. A Love Story by Samantha Chandler proved to be a real exception and I loved it from start to finish. Great writing combined with such a beautiful story kept me hooked right from the start. Make sure you have time put aside when you start it for yourself, or, if you’re anything like me, you’ll be late for your next appointment, as you won’t want to put it down.
March 24, 2016
In A Love Story: How God Pursued Me & Found Me, An Impossibly True Story, Samantha Ryan Chandler tells her heartbreaking tale of abuse and broken families, and how discovering the power of faith in God saved her. Describing herself as a “skinny girl from Nowhere, Louisiana,” Samantha reveals horrific abuse at the hands of her sick, confused mother and her manipulative ex-husband, whom she comically nicknames “Darth Vader.” She humbly admits that for much of her life, she was ignorant about God; she knew of Him, but did not understand His ways. However, ignorance, she maintains, is fixable. Throughout her emotional testimony, it is clear that He knew about her and had quite a plan in store for her, and by the end of her narrative, she had been affected by His presence more than she ever thought possible.
Even in her youthful naivety, Samantha maintains that God was always with her. She heard His voice in trying and unexpected times, such as the death of her grandfather, and claims to have seen three of His angels at various difficult points in her life. During her traumatic marriage to “Darth Vader” and the resulting divorce that literally tore her happy family apart, her faith in God gave her the patience and trust to endure all of the pain and emerge, as she says, as a “phoenix...risen.”
This is an inspiring and insightful memoir about how one woman’s trust in God led her through a minefield of dangerous human emotions and allowed her to survive the evil one human being can do to another. While reading, you will laugh, cry, feel pain in your heart, and rejoice along with Samantha as you follow her journey through all of God’s trials. This wonderful novel will resonate with just about anyone, as living proof that there is, so to speak, a light at the end of the tunnel.
Despite all the unbelievable horror this poor woman has faced in her lifetime, the strength and conviction she shows in her brave reflection is truly awe-inspiring. What makes her story so spectacular is that, even though she has endured such awful things, Samantha found the peace within herself that allowed her to forgive everyone who had wronged her, and trust that God would make things right in the end.
And, as it turns out, He did. At the close of her narrative, Samantha fondly recalls “the scripture that says that God is not in the wind, nor is He in the thunder, but he is in the still, small voice resonating in our hearts.” It is this voice that guides Samantha as she tells her impossible story. But as she did herself, she insists that one should always “dare to believe the impossible.”
I think that “A Love Story…” is a truly enchanting read, both as a former abuse victim longing for a connection to someone like me, and as a humble mother looking for more faith in her own life. Samantha’s honest style of writing forces you to examine your own faults and strengths as you read about hers, and in the end, it will leave you feeling raw, refreshed, and ready for a change in your own life. I would most highly recommend this novel to anyone, religious or not, relatable or not. No matter who you are or what your background is, you will find a valuable lesson in Samantha’s words that you will thank her for later. It was a truly wonderful reading experience, through and through.
Even in her youthful naivety, Samantha maintains that God was always with her. She heard His voice in trying and unexpected times, such as the death of her grandfather, and claims to have seen three of His angels at various difficult points in her life. During her traumatic marriage to “Darth Vader” and the resulting divorce that literally tore her happy family apart, her faith in God gave her the patience and trust to endure all of the pain and emerge, as she says, as a “phoenix...risen.”
This is an inspiring and insightful memoir about how one woman’s trust in God led her through a minefield of dangerous human emotions and allowed her to survive the evil one human being can do to another. While reading, you will laugh, cry, feel pain in your heart, and rejoice along with Samantha as you follow her journey through all of God’s trials. This wonderful novel will resonate with just about anyone, as living proof that there is, so to speak, a light at the end of the tunnel.
Despite all the unbelievable horror this poor woman has faced in her lifetime, the strength and conviction she shows in her brave reflection is truly awe-inspiring. What makes her story so spectacular is that, even though she has endured such awful things, Samantha found the peace within herself that allowed her to forgive everyone who had wronged her, and trust that God would make things right in the end.
And, as it turns out, He did. At the close of her narrative, Samantha fondly recalls “the scripture that says that God is not in the wind, nor is He in the thunder, but he is in the still, small voice resonating in our hearts.” It is this voice that guides Samantha as she tells her impossible story. But as she did herself, she insists that one should always “dare to believe the impossible.”
I think that “A Love Story…” is a truly enchanting read, both as a former abuse victim longing for a connection to someone like me, and as a humble mother looking for more faith in her own life. Samantha’s honest style of writing forces you to examine your own faults and strengths as you read about hers, and in the end, it will leave you feeling raw, refreshed, and ready for a change in your own life. I would most highly recommend this novel to anyone, religious or not, relatable or not. No matter who you are or what your background is, you will find a valuable lesson in Samantha’s words that you will thank her for later. It was a truly wonderful reading experience, through and through.
October 23, 2017
This memoir was so moving and so spiritual that it warmed my heart while I was reading it for this review. Samantha Chandler was the daughter of a “former altar-boy-in-the-Catholic-religion father and a pagan mother whom she referred to as wicked and abusive. Samantha claims she has been visited by three angels throughout her years on earth and has looked satan in the eye. She writes her story with passages from the Holy Bible, quoting them and providing explanations on how they relate to the events that occurred in her life. She has dined with U.S. presidents and has gotten married to rich men as well. Samantha’s walk with God officially began when she was twenty-one years old. She surrendered her life to Christ in a small Methodist church where a pastor asked random people of his congregation to come forward and make a public confession of their sins and fully give their lives to the Lord. And years later when she was on a trip to the Holy Land, she got baptized by a church friend in the River Jordan where Jesus was baptized by his cousin John the Baptist. Samantha would also mention that she is a cofounder of a children’s ministry formerly called Children’s Cross Connection which is now called Childspring International dedicated to bringing extraordinarily sick or devastatingly disfigured children from around the world to the USA for donated surgeries.
While reading this book, I could not help but relate to it in my own way. I, too have a special relationship with the Lord where I always keep Him on the forefront because I believe in His leading and compassionate ways. Samantha has that vibe and I felt at peace with her story here which is a story of triumph and victory. She makes me feel proud of her and her devotedness to the Lord because her story is a positive one and should be shared across the world. I do find courage and renewed faith in her words and wish her all the best with wherever she is at at this moment. This book gives me inspiration to write the same on my own experiences in my own journey in life at some point later when I am fully experienced and knowledgeable of the decisions I have made and the wins and losses I have felt with making them.
I recommend this book to all who have a special relationship with the Lord or to those who are looking for something comforting for their own troubled lives in that there is help and faith and love when you have the Lord God in your life. That He listens and never abandons those who seek refuge in His arms. That God, through his Son Jesus Christ, is always merciful and attentive to us and that He is the only one to defeat the wicked snares of the devil. I tell you, when I finished this book last night, I sighed softly to myself and blessed Ms. Chandler in my heart for lending her experiences with the Lord for us to get inspired by. What a blessed story this was. I urge you to buy it for your kindle’s ebook collection because it’s a great victorious book to keep in case you go through trials and tribulations and you need advice and inspiration on how to defeat them. All in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
While reading this book, I could not help but relate to it in my own way. I, too have a special relationship with the Lord where I always keep Him on the forefront because I believe in His leading and compassionate ways. Samantha has that vibe and I felt at peace with her story here which is a story of triumph and victory. She makes me feel proud of her and her devotedness to the Lord because her story is a positive one and should be shared across the world. I do find courage and renewed faith in her words and wish her all the best with wherever she is at at this moment. This book gives me inspiration to write the same on my own experiences in my own journey in life at some point later when I am fully experienced and knowledgeable of the decisions I have made and the wins and losses I have felt with making them.
I recommend this book to all who have a special relationship with the Lord or to those who are looking for something comforting for their own troubled lives in that there is help and faith and love when you have the Lord God in your life. That He listens and never abandons those who seek refuge in His arms. That God, through his Son Jesus Christ, is always merciful and attentive to us and that He is the only one to defeat the wicked snares of the devil. I tell you, when I finished this book last night, I sighed softly to myself and blessed Ms. Chandler in my heart for lending her experiences with the Lord for us to get inspired by. What a blessed story this was. I urge you to buy it for your kindle’s ebook collection because it’s a great victorious book to keep in case you go through trials and tribulations and you need advice and inspiration on how to defeat them. All in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
January 2, 2016
A Love Story: How God Pursued Me and Found Me by Samantha Ryan Chandler is a fun, thought-provoking, and hope-filled read. The author starts off with a promise that the reader will laugh out loud and cry all within the same sentence. Samantha shares her story of a sick and abusive mother, traumatic childhood experiences, several divorces, the temporary loss of her children, poverty and wealth, and a loving God who uses it all for her good. Though she experienced many difficulties, she writes with hope and humor throughout—which makes it a quick, easy, and enjoyable read.
The book is not written chronologically but almost as if the chapters were originally journal entries. Samantha said this about her writing:
“I also wish the reader to know that I did not write this book for you to read. I never dreamed it would be a book. I sat down and wrote to myself. Where were you, God, when my life was crumbling? I had a vast need to look back on my broken life and search out where was God in my time of horror. As I began my writing in small bits of time beginning from my early life, I began to see a thread, a breath of God pursuing me.”
Throughout, she shares instrumental events in her life and how God continuously protected, wooed, and drew her to himself. She shares her early introduction to the faith, fear of hell, her eventual salvation, experiences with angels, God’s hand holding her’s, and also peering deep into Satan’s eyes. God’s grace is weaved into every chapter, even the traumatic sections.
The book encourages hope in God’s promises for those struggling with any type of malady. Consider what she shared about her battle with the fear of flying:
“God has not given us a spirit of fear. If we have fear, it comes from the other side—from Satan, Lucifer, the killer of life. After realizing this, I became angry. How dare Satan cause me to fear flying! I am a child of God with all my rights in writing. This knowledge gave me the tools to begin fighting the fear…
God is in control. If you fear, then you are listening to Satan. I am telling you—this thought process works. When you can get your arms around your God-given rights and understand who God is and just how sovereign He is, then freedom is in sight.”
As you read this amazing love story, your faith and hope in God will be strengthened. It reminds us that what the enemy intends for our harm, God always uses for our good (cf. Gen 50:20). Thank you, Samantha, for sharing your story with us.
The book is not written chronologically but almost as if the chapters were originally journal entries. Samantha said this about her writing:
“I also wish the reader to know that I did not write this book for you to read. I never dreamed it would be a book. I sat down and wrote to myself. Where were you, God, when my life was crumbling? I had a vast need to look back on my broken life and search out where was God in my time of horror. As I began my writing in small bits of time beginning from my early life, I began to see a thread, a breath of God pursuing me.”
Throughout, she shares instrumental events in her life and how God continuously protected, wooed, and drew her to himself. She shares her early introduction to the faith, fear of hell, her eventual salvation, experiences with angels, God’s hand holding her’s, and also peering deep into Satan’s eyes. God’s grace is weaved into every chapter, even the traumatic sections.
The book encourages hope in God’s promises for those struggling with any type of malady. Consider what she shared about her battle with the fear of flying:
“God has not given us a spirit of fear. If we have fear, it comes from the other side—from Satan, Lucifer, the killer of life. After realizing this, I became angry. How dare Satan cause me to fear flying! I am a child of God with all my rights in writing. This knowledge gave me the tools to begin fighting the fear…
God is in control. If you fear, then you are listening to Satan. I am telling you—this thought process works. When you can get your arms around your God-given rights and understand who God is and just how sovereign He is, then freedom is in sight.”
As you read this amazing love story, your faith and hope in God will be strengthened. It reminds us that what the enemy intends for our harm, God always uses for our good (cf. Gen 50:20). Thank you, Samantha, for sharing your story with us.
June 2, 2017
An Emotional and Inspirational Read for Christians and Non-Christians Alike
I’m going to start by pointing out that I’m agnostic, so the Bible verses and discussions of God did not have as profound an effect on me as it would a Christian reader. Nevertheless, I think this book would be very inspirational to anyone suffering through hard times, whether they’re Christian or not. It’s slow in the beginning but soon enough you get to the heart of the book, a heart-wrenching story of a woman’s horrendous struggles and how her faith pulled her through it. My heart goes out for Chandler and I find her strength during oblivion uplifting. Her use of scripture to lift people up rather than condemn them is refreshing and, for me, heartwarming. It fills me with hope.
The structure of the narrative is jumbled in the beginning. She acknowledges multiple times that she wrote the book for herself—or, actually, God wrote it for her through her—but the sections before she discusses her work with sick children feel somewhat out of place with the rest of the book. They’re necessary, mind you, as they help the reader understand her story, but it made for a slow read at first. At times Chandler also seems to try too hard to make the reader see her point, rather than allowing her readers to realize the lessons for themselves, which got a bit annoying. However, her storytelling captivates me, especially as she details her divorce from her third husband, whom she refers to as “Darth Vader.” (In my opinion, that’s an insult to Darth Vader.)
Overall, I’m glad that Chandler has shared this story. This book shows that anyone can travel through the darkest tunnels and make it out the other side alive, sometimes even stronger for their trials and obstacles. Whether you’re Christian, polytheistic, agnostic, atheist, or something else entirely, it’s always comforting to know that something or someone has a plan for us. If nothing else, I recommend reading this book to understand one universal lesson which Chandler had to learn the hard way: everything happens for a reason.
I’m going to start by pointing out that I’m agnostic, so the Bible verses and discussions of God did not have as profound an effect on me as it would a Christian reader. Nevertheless, I think this book would be very inspirational to anyone suffering through hard times, whether they’re Christian or not. It’s slow in the beginning but soon enough you get to the heart of the book, a heart-wrenching story of a woman’s horrendous struggles and how her faith pulled her through it. My heart goes out for Chandler and I find her strength during oblivion uplifting. Her use of scripture to lift people up rather than condemn them is refreshing and, for me, heartwarming. It fills me with hope.
The structure of the narrative is jumbled in the beginning. She acknowledges multiple times that she wrote the book for herself—or, actually, God wrote it for her through her—but the sections before she discusses her work with sick children feel somewhat out of place with the rest of the book. They’re necessary, mind you, as they help the reader understand her story, but it made for a slow read at first. At times Chandler also seems to try too hard to make the reader see her point, rather than allowing her readers to realize the lessons for themselves, which got a bit annoying. However, her storytelling captivates me, especially as she details her divorce from her third husband, whom she refers to as “Darth Vader.” (In my opinion, that’s an insult to Darth Vader.)
Overall, I’m glad that Chandler has shared this story. This book shows that anyone can travel through the darkest tunnels and make it out the other side alive, sometimes even stronger for their trials and obstacles. Whether you’re Christian, polytheistic, agnostic, atheist, or something else entirely, it’s always comforting to know that something or someone has a plan for us. If nothing else, I recommend reading this book to understand one universal lesson which Chandler had to learn the hard way: everything happens for a reason.
January 26, 2012
Firstly I would like to thank the author as I won this as part of First Reads. Thank you for selecting me to read and review your book.
I only wish I could rate it higher - I would have given it a 2.5 if I could. Although I understand that this book is written to the author by the author, to an outsider it's very disjointed and the stories chop and change all over the place. For example, as information is provided in bits and pieces all over the place, it seemed to me initially that the author was considering leaving her husband based on the fact that he asked for his shopping change back. Obviously it was far, far more than that, but as the writing was so disjointed this was my initial perception.
Perhaps I am being overly critical of this, as I picked this book up after just finishing another autobiography of a woman who suffered unmentionable pain throughout her early life and religion also featured strongly in that book as well. However that book read far more logically than this one.
I certainly admire the author's honesty and willingness to share her pain and admire her strength, determination and faith. She certainly has a compelling story to share.
Lastly, the reason why this has ended up with 2 stars instead of 3 (seeing as I would have given it 2.5 if possible) is that the editing is quite poor. Having previously worked as an editor, I think it's second nature now to notice these things, and I find it really distracting to find sentences that don't make sense and in particular in this book, tenses that change from past to present in the same sentence. Although the author has an important story and message, the disjointedness and poor editing make it a little awkward to read.
I only wish I could rate it higher - I would have given it a 2.5 if I could. Although I understand that this book is written to the author by the author, to an outsider it's very disjointed and the stories chop and change all over the place. For example, as information is provided in bits and pieces all over the place, it seemed to me initially that the author was considering leaving her husband based on the fact that he asked for his shopping change back. Obviously it was far, far more than that, but as the writing was so disjointed this was my initial perception.
Perhaps I am being overly critical of this, as I picked this book up after just finishing another autobiography of a woman who suffered unmentionable pain throughout her early life and religion also featured strongly in that book as well. However that book read far more logically than this one.
I certainly admire the author's honesty and willingness to share her pain and admire her strength, determination and faith. She certainly has a compelling story to share.
Lastly, the reason why this has ended up with 2 stars instead of 3 (seeing as I would have given it 2.5 if possible) is that the editing is quite poor. Having previously worked as an editor, I think it's second nature now to notice these things, and I find it really distracting to find sentences that don't make sense and in particular in this book, tenses that change from past to present in the same sentence. Although the author has an important story and message, the disjointedness and poor editing make it a little awkward to read.
January 30, 2012
I was given a copy of this book by a friend and I found the story and the style very engrossing. The author clearly has had her share of adventures and more than her share of disasters. It is interesting to read of her journey from the colorful world of Arcadian Louisiana, where she suffered at the hands of an abusive mother and a father who’s love for her blinded him to the sufferings of his children, to a life of fantastic wealth.
The writing style reveals a whimsical nature that belies the inner strength of the author as she pulls herself up from somewhat humble beginnings to a lifestyle of wealth that few can rival. But as she discovered to her horror, the type of personality that can amass such a fortune, is also one that is not prone to sentimentality or generosity when he decides that she is no longer to be a part of his, or even more devastatingly, their children’s lives. Cast out and outmaneuvered by a well conceived and executed divorce, she finds herself alone, deprived of home, money and children. The story could have been told as a hand-wringing tale of despair but somehow the author tells it all in a flowing, conversational tone, although some of the passages, such as the one where the judge takes her youngest daughter from her, are chilling to read.
I am not a Christian but I did take great interest in the author’s selection of biblical quotes, which she turned to when her life was falling apart. Even a non-believer can see the value in their wisdom. Her personal philosophy, that she puts forth in “The World According to Samantha” is worth the price of the book. Very amusing and pithy, reminiscent of Will Rogers or Mark Twain. Machine guns, bags of gold, deceit and betrayal, it’s all part of this amazing tale. Thoroughly enjoyable. Recommended.
The writing style reveals a whimsical nature that belies the inner strength of the author as she pulls herself up from somewhat humble beginnings to a lifestyle of wealth that few can rival. But as she discovered to her horror, the type of personality that can amass such a fortune, is also one that is not prone to sentimentality or generosity when he decides that she is no longer to be a part of his, or even more devastatingly, their children’s lives. Cast out and outmaneuvered by a well conceived and executed divorce, she finds herself alone, deprived of home, money and children. The story could have been told as a hand-wringing tale of despair but somehow the author tells it all in a flowing, conversational tone, although some of the passages, such as the one where the judge takes her youngest daughter from her, are chilling to read.
I am not a Christian but I did take great interest in the author’s selection of biblical quotes, which she turned to when her life was falling apart. Even a non-believer can see the value in their wisdom. Her personal philosophy, that she puts forth in “The World According to Samantha” is worth the price of the book. Very amusing and pithy, reminiscent of Will Rogers or Mark Twain. Machine guns, bags of gold, deceit and betrayal, it’s all part of this amazing tale. Thoroughly enjoyable. Recommended.
July 14, 2012
Fantastic !!!
"A Love Story-How God Pursed Me and Found Me-An Impossibly True Story" by Samantha Ryan Chandler is an inspiring life memoir and an account of the tribulation known as divorce that forever changed the author's life and the lives of her children. Samantha Ryan Chandler gives a heart-wrenching account of an evil plan perpetrated by her husband to rob her of everything, their homes, money, and stability to include her three precious daughters. The author writes with purpose, giving the reader many life lessons that she learned throughout all her trials. Most importantly, she learned that God can rescue, is might to save and He can RESTORE that which was lost.
God speaks in many ways as the author notes and the supernatural does occur as the author gives accounts of visitations by angels on three different occasions. The book is uplifting, filled with scripture and has a message of encouragement to all who have been stolen from whether it be from divorce or any unfortunate circumstance in life. Her message is so uplifting, so encouraging, that the reader will be amazed and in awe as to how God is intimately involved in each of our lives. Truly, God will carry you through to restoration and redemption!
This book is recommended for anyone that loves a true story with a happy ending! May all the glory and honor be to God-who came and rescued a young, skinny girl from Nowhere, Louisiana and gave her life and life more abundantly! This is a testament to the Love of God and an irresistible love story to those that are lost. Thank you Samantha for writing a book that shared your life story that gives others hope when "hope" has been lost. You are an inspiration.
"A Love Story-How God Pursed Me and Found Me-An Impossibly True Story" by Samantha Ryan Chandler is an inspiring life memoir and an account of the tribulation known as divorce that forever changed the author's life and the lives of her children. Samantha Ryan Chandler gives a heart-wrenching account of an evil plan perpetrated by her husband to rob her of everything, their homes, money, and stability to include her three precious daughters. The author writes with purpose, giving the reader many life lessons that she learned throughout all her trials. Most importantly, she learned that God can rescue, is might to save and He can RESTORE that which was lost.
God speaks in many ways as the author notes and the supernatural does occur as the author gives accounts of visitations by angels on three different occasions. The book is uplifting, filled with scripture and has a message of encouragement to all who have been stolen from whether it be from divorce or any unfortunate circumstance in life. Her message is so uplifting, so encouraging, that the reader will be amazed and in awe as to how God is intimately involved in each of our lives. Truly, God will carry you through to restoration and redemption!
This book is recommended for anyone that loves a true story with a happy ending! May all the glory and honor be to God-who came and rescued a young, skinny girl from Nowhere, Louisiana and gave her life and life more abundantly! This is a testament to the Love of God and an irresistible love story to those that are lost. Thank you Samantha for writing a book that shared your life story that gives others hope when "hope" has been lost. You are an inspiration.
April 21, 2016
This wonderful lady deserves our salute, love and respect!
This amazing memoir fills my heart with respect and love for this wonderful lady Samantha Chandler and I salute her courage, believes and morals in life.
'A Love Story' is a heart warming yet enchanting journey of author Samantha Chandler where she paints vivid pictures of her abusive childhood to a devastating divorce and temporary loss of her children putting readers under her skin to envision her sufferings of pain and hurdles life threw in her way. I was taken aback and was astonished at the reality that how strong a shattered- discouraged women can get like the author, fighting with negative situations all her life and yet maintaining faith in god and his mercy! It would be an honor to highlight author Samantha's motivating and encouraging work of being a co-founder of a children's ministry formerly called Children's Cross Connection and now called Childspring International where she helped sick, devastating, disfigured children from around the world. It was very inspiring to read about Samantha Chandler, how she let go negativity of life and learned to carve a beautiful positive personality against all odds and serves for the betterment and good for the less privileged ones. No wonder God had chosen to test her abilities because he knew she was capable and strong enough to come out as an inspiration, proving to be a role model for his other less confident and less strong followers.
There is definitely much more to unravel and learn from authors life through this engrossing page turner. I am sure every women will find a friend in Samantha and look up to her memoir as an inspiring guidebook in tough times in life. I would love to highly recommend 'A Love Story' to all.
This amazing memoir fills my heart with respect and love for this wonderful lady Samantha Chandler and I salute her courage, believes and morals in life.
'A Love Story' is a heart warming yet enchanting journey of author Samantha Chandler where she paints vivid pictures of her abusive childhood to a devastating divorce and temporary loss of her children putting readers under her skin to envision her sufferings of pain and hurdles life threw in her way. I was taken aback and was astonished at the reality that how strong a shattered- discouraged women can get like the author, fighting with negative situations all her life and yet maintaining faith in god and his mercy! It would be an honor to highlight author Samantha's motivating and encouraging work of being a co-founder of a children's ministry formerly called Children's Cross Connection and now called Childspring International where she helped sick, devastating, disfigured children from around the world. It was very inspiring to read about Samantha Chandler, how she let go negativity of life and learned to carve a beautiful positive personality against all odds and serves for the betterment and good for the less privileged ones. No wonder God had chosen to test her abilities because he knew she was capable and strong enough to come out as an inspiration, proving to be a role model for his other less confident and less strong followers.
There is definitely much more to unravel and learn from authors life through this engrossing page turner. I am sure every women will find a friend in Samantha and look up to her memoir as an inspiring guidebook in tough times in life. I would love to highly recommend 'A Love Story' to all.
August 24, 2016
My life hasn’t been easy. I lost my career and my first wife to cancer before our 15th anniversary, leaving me with four young boys to raise. Later, I married Cherie, who was raising three boys. As if raising 7 boys hasn’t been enough of a challenge, I now help care for my 106-year-old grandma!
Sometimes I need to be reassured that someone faced greater challenges and not only survived, but emerged stronger, more joyful, and even better for having gone through it. That’s the assurance I feel after reading Samantha Chandler’s A Love Story.
I had a hard time putting this one down. Chandler wasted little time with unnecessary details, throwing me headlong into her tumultuous life. From the age of four, she lived in fear, never hearing the words “I love you” from her cruel and twisted mother. Her first husband took over the emotional abuse where her mother left off, in the end threatening to separate her from her dear children.
So how do you handle such intense emotional and even physical suffering? How do you put it behind you? Is it possible to forgive and move on - even becoming better in the process? That’s the hope that Chandler holds out to readers. I for one am more hopeful having read her journey.
Sometimes I need to be reassured that someone faced greater challenges and not only survived, but emerged stronger, more joyful, and even better for having gone through it. That’s the assurance I feel after reading Samantha Chandler’s A Love Story.
I had a hard time putting this one down. Chandler wasted little time with unnecessary details, throwing me headlong into her tumultuous life. From the age of four, she lived in fear, never hearing the words “I love you” from her cruel and twisted mother. Her first husband took over the emotional abuse where her mother left off, in the end threatening to separate her from her dear children.
So how do you handle such intense emotional and even physical suffering? How do you put it behind you? Is it possible to forgive and move on - even becoming better in the process? That’s the hope that Chandler holds out to readers. I for one am more hopeful having read her journey.
October 20, 2011
** For the full review please check out www.read2review.com **
I have to say that after reading this book I have a great admiration with Samantha for sharing her, at times, very painful story with us. It must have taken a lot of courage to print this book after having written and stirred up the memories that caused so much pain.
Samantha has been through a lot in her life and has laid it out for all to see. From an abusive mother to Darth Vader I think she has had it all and then some thrown at her. To keep faith the way she has is inspirational and shows that even in your darkest moments, if you believe, you have someone watching over you.
Read more here: http://read2review.com/our-reviews/s/...
I have to say that after reading this book I have a great admiration with Samantha for sharing her, at times, very painful story with us. It must have taken a lot of courage to print this book after having written and stirred up the memories that caused so much pain.
Samantha has been through a lot in her life and has laid it out for all to see. From an abusive mother to Darth Vader I think she has had it all and then some thrown at her. To keep faith the way she has is inspirational and shows that even in your darkest moments, if you believe, you have someone watching over you.
Read more here: http://read2review.com/our-reviews/s/...
December 20, 2011
I really enjoyed reading this book. Chandler allows you inside her mind as she faces each new challenge and trial. I like the fact that the book is raw and honest but I also felt like I wanted more inforamtion in some areas of the book (like more background on the children's situation). I feel like this book allows readers to search their souls for what they truly believe and how far they are willing to go to trust it.
It reminds us to look up and not down, God is in control!
It reminds us to look up and not down, God is in control!
June 17, 2022
This was a free kindle acquisition. I love biographies and even more Christian ones. I was looking forward to reading this. However, this would not be a recommendation. The author has lived through some difficult circumstances. She was abused by her mom growing up and then married several times. The majority of the book focuses on one of her marriages and the difficult results of it all. I kept waiting for the redemption. She probably is a moderately mature believer (and does use Scripture throughout), but she has one major stumbling block--unforgiveness. It is not until 76% of the book that she even starts to declare that she has forgiven her husband for his inappropriate behavior. Instead she calls him Darth Vader etc... for that first 3/4. Even after declaring forgiveness, there still seems to be a bit of a root of bitterness. It is only at the very end that you learn she wrote this book as a journal for herself (rather than really for others). I suspect that she felt she had dealt with the bitterness, but it appears to still be a struggle as seen through her words in most of the book. Not too enjoyable or uplifting. But it does remind us that spiritual warfare is going on daily.
May 29, 2017
This is the first Samantha Chandler novel I have read. It is absolutely a stunning read with an amazing storyline. A Love Story...How God Pursued Me and Found Me is a unique, totally different spin compared to the type of stories I have read.
Samantha painstakingly and intellectually creates the perfect balance of love, anxiety, suspense, hope , trials, and edge-of-your-seat anticipation in this genre-defying encounter of Samantha Ryan Chandler's life. This book records the trials, betrayal, loss, anguish and events of the author's life and how she was able to significantly overcome life obstacles through faith, which eventually made her a better, stronger person. She relay her experience of God's love that has set her free.
The writer does an excellent job of pulling me in from the very beginning. The characters are very realistic and you feel you begin to know them. I had a wonderful ride to the very last page!
Samantha is such an amazing author. Her writing style is so present, so engaging, you will love the unique warmth he brought to this book. I intend to read more from this author in the future.
Samantha painstakingly and intellectually creates the perfect balance of love, anxiety, suspense, hope , trials, and edge-of-your-seat anticipation in this genre-defying encounter of Samantha Ryan Chandler's life. This book records the trials, betrayal, loss, anguish and events of the author's life and how she was able to significantly overcome life obstacles through faith, which eventually made her a better, stronger person. She relay her experience of God's love that has set her free.
The writer does an excellent job of pulling me in from the very beginning. The characters are very realistic and you feel you begin to know them. I had a wonderful ride to the very last page!
Samantha is such an amazing author. Her writing style is so present, so engaging, you will love the unique warmth he brought to this book. I intend to read more from this author in the future.
August 25, 2017
Love Story by Samantha Chandler's is such an inspiring memoir, that left me with the message that people can really achieve great things, no matter where they come from. You can go through difficult things and emerge from the other side stronger than before. From her humble beginnings in Louisiana, Samantha finds herself on the top rung of society, only for that life to crash completely. From the ruins of that life, she found her faith, which gave her the strength to reconnect with her children and find capacity to feel such love and joy.
As memoirs go, this one was one of the better ones I have read. It's style was informal and relaxed, but it was truthful and real to. I felt a connection with the author once I finished, and I certainly will be reading more from Samantha Chandler in the future.
As memoirs go, this one was one of the better ones I have read. It's style was informal and relaxed, but it was truthful and real to. I felt a connection with the author once I finished, and I certainly will be reading more from Samantha Chandler in the future.
September 11, 2017
Anyone that is experiences difficulties in their life should read Love Story...How God Pursued Me and Found Me: An Impossibly True Story by Samantha Chandler. I read this memoir in one sitting, and although at times it is hard to read, the makes it all worth it. It teaches you that has low points, but they help you to appreciate what you have and love, so much more. Samantha Chandler is a remarkable woman, and she has told her story of strength is a relatable and personal way.
Life can be ugly, but beauty can emerge if you can learn to let the ugliness go, and move on. Perhaps easier said than done, but reading this book is a perfect way to begin.
Life can be ugly, but beauty can emerge if you can learn to let the ugliness go, and move on. Perhaps easier said than done, but reading this book is a perfect way to begin.
June 4, 2017
What an incredible read! This book was a good read that I couldn't put down. Usually when I finish a book, I feel a sense of accomplishment and am glad that I finished the journey. But, with this book, I really wished it would have went on for more pages. It was just so engaging. Samantha Ryan Chandler's life will have you shocked, awed, and inspired, I just couldn’t put it down. It is an addictive page-turner from start to finish that will give you some pretty whacked out dreams if you read it right before going to bed. The story really touch my heart.
October 11, 2017
This is a truly inspirational and uplifting memoir that I found touched me deeply while reading. Chandler experienced so much in her life, and to be able to come through it all in a way that she can now help others by sharing her story is not only brave, but also selfless and giving and an inspiration to us all.
The warmth and concise style of the writing made progress through some of the difficult parts steady and effortless. I will definitely be rereading A Love Story, and look for more Chandler books in the future.
The warmth and concise style of the writing made progress through some of the difficult parts steady and effortless. I will definitely be rereading A Love Story, and look for more Chandler books in the future.
April 11, 2026
Subject Matter Depth The book touches upon various aspects of its subject matter in a systematic way. While it does not delve into extreme details, it provides a sufficient overview for a general understanding. Each chapter introduces a new facet of the topic, building a complete picture by the end. Access additional resources on this subject via the link below. >>> https://u.to/WkJZIg
February 11, 2013
About the Book:
The tale of Samantha Ryan Chandler's life is evocatively portrayed in her book: A Love Story, How God Pursued Me and Found Me. It tells of a life that is as disturbing and unsettling as it is uplifting and, in the end, gratifying. How "A girl from Nowhere, Louisiana" finds her way from such humble beginnings to live and walk amongst presidents and the supremely rich, only to find her trust and faith betrayed by those that she loved and trusted the most. She would be tested to the point where she began to doubt her own sanity and, at the moment of her greatest desperation and doubt, she was found by God and brought back from the brink of hopeless despair. Blessed with an almost unquenchable optimism and a unique sense of humor, she relates the story of a life that will speak to those who have encountered abuse, unfairness and anguish. Her love for her children and her faith in God carried her through a crucible of fire and in the end, made her a better, stronger person, ready to carry on with a life that is again filled with love, joy and laughter. A Love Story, How God Pursued Me and Found Me will both inspire you and touch your heart.
About the Author:
Samantha Ryan Chandler was born in a colorful town in Louisiana, which helped shape her view of life; to "live life and live it large". A series of divine interactions led Samantha to co-found a children's ministry Childspring International, formerly called Children's Cross Connection. The organization brings children with severe deformities or life threatening illnesses to the United States for donated surgeries and medical care. She now divides her time between North Carolina and Georgia.
My Review:
Samantha Ryan Chandler has written a book that is sure to get you thinking not only about yourself but thinking about your soul and how certain things that happen in your life don't happen by accident or coincidence. Samantha didn't grow up in a Christian home so finding her way to God may prove to be difficult. But in the end find Him, she did. With all of the trials and tribulations any of us would of had to endure she endured them to the bitter end of the journey to find the one true God and bitter turned into bittersweet when at last she landed at His feet.
In her book she shares with us the journey and all it had taken to get to this point along with all the people she met along the way. She brings us along on this spiritual walk where she has met angels and stared evil in the face. She described the home she grew up in as eery. And coming home to it after a night of trick-or-treating was scarier than being in dark going to neighbors homes to ask for candy. Come along with Samantha as she takes you with her on this journey and shows you how even the people that don't have the best start in the end...... come out the victor!
**Disclosure** This book was given to me by the author in exchange for an honest review.
The tale of Samantha Ryan Chandler's life is evocatively portrayed in her book: A Love Story, How God Pursued Me and Found Me. It tells of a life that is as disturbing and unsettling as it is uplifting and, in the end, gratifying. How "A girl from Nowhere, Louisiana" finds her way from such humble beginnings to live and walk amongst presidents and the supremely rich, only to find her trust and faith betrayed by those that she loved and trusted the most. She would be tested to the point where she began to doubt her own sanity and, at the moment of her greatest desperation and doubt, she was found by God and brought back from the brink of hopeless despair. Blessed with an almost unquenchable optimism and a unique sense of humor, she relates the story of a life that will speak to those who have encountered abuse, unfairness and anguish. Her love for her children and her faith in God carried her through a crucible of fire and in the end, made her a better, stronger person, ready to carry on with a life that is again filled with love, joy and laughter. A Love Story, How God Pursued Me and Found Me will both inspire you and touch your heart.
About the Author:
Samantha Ryan Chandler was born in a colorful town in Louisiana, which helped shape her view of life; to "live life and live it large". A series of divine interactions led Samantha to co-found a children's ministry Childspring International, formerly called Children's Cross Connection. The organization brings children with severe deformities or life threatening illnesses to the United States for donated surgeries and medical care. She now divides her time between North Carolina and Georgia.
My Review:
Samantha Ryan Chandler has written a book that is sure to get you thinking not only about yourself but thinking about your soul and how certain things that happen in your life don't happen by accident or coincidence. Samantha didn't grow up in a Christian home so finding her way to God may prove to be difficult. But in the end find Him, she did. With all of the trials and tribulations any of us would of had to endure she endured them to the bitter end of the journey to find the one true God and bitter turned into bittersweet when at last she landed at His feet.
In her book she shares with us the journey and all it had taken to get to this point along with all the people she met along the way. She brings us along on this spiritual walk where she has met angels and stared evil in the face. She described the home she grew up in as eery. And coming home to it after a night of trick-or-treating was scarier than being in dark going to neighbors homes to ask for candy. Come along with Samantha as she takes you with her on this journey and shows you how even the people that don't have the best start in the end...... come out the victor!
**Disclosure** This book was given to me by the author in exchange for an honest review.
January 20, 2013
A Love Story: How God Pursued Me and Found Me ~ An Impossibly True Story by Samantha Ryan Chandler is the story based on the author's account of her triumphs and trials in her life's walk. This book is not only a personal account of her life but it speaks from the heart. As you read, you feel the pain and anguish of this author come through. In her own words, the author writes "I am a child of God, and I win." Amen!
Excerpt from the book: "Those who grow up with the knowledge of God's love know that He is there to guide them in their life. Even in the bad times, they know that God will help them see things through and come out better when the trials have ended. But what about those who have not been raised with God in their lives?"
There so many small lines and sentences that jump out at me as a reader that tell you, this author writes from a place many of us don't know. From the ashes, from the flames she has risen and shares with us the profoundness of loss, sadness, deflation in status and wealth, fear and beyond. I dog-earred many pages in this book and look back on them with a calm reflection. I speed through it in under an hour when it arrived in my mailbox. It's colorful and rich and descriptive in ways that you often feel you are there in the pages described by the author.
However, there were points to this book that took it from high expectations to a let down. I wasn't particularly a fan of her constant mentioning of being married to money or her travelings to exotic places. It was disheartening to think that someone's trials and tribulations in life consisted so freely about spending money on expensive trips to Europe and Hawaii and Mexico, to name a few. Trials and tribulations, I think, are not enough food on the table and wondering if you'll have enough to pay the rent. Abjectly, I was highly offended by her use of the words "seat Nazis" in a description of traveling and having a sick child and not being able to sit in the front seat where she would have been better suited. In her own words, all she had to do was ask and it was granted ~ such language, in my humble opinion, does not belong in a christian based book.
As you read, you feel the pain and anguish of this author come through. The book has an overall theme of 'hope for the hopeless'. God won't just find you - you'll be reminded that he was always there.
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book to review. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations. I am part of The CWA Review Crew.
March 12, 2016
It’s always a blessing to learn of the miraculous ways in which God works in His children’s lives. In the story of Samantha Ryan Chandler titled A Love Story...How God Pursued Me and Found Me: An Impossibly True Story, I had the pleasure of watching the power of God at work in her life to bring deliverance and renewal even when she didn’t know God, but only knew of Him in her heart. I greatly admire the author’s strength and courage, especially during her most exhausting and difficult times. Her unrelenting love of God goes beyond inspiring to a place of undying trust and faith that we can all learn from and follow.
While I loved Samantha’s colorful description of her roots in Louisiana and her fun childhood experiences, I was also grieved to learn of the suffering she endured as a child because of her mother. Having been abused throughout my childhood gave me an overwhelming sense of compassion for the fears she faced and the darkness that filled her childhood home. Yet her writing doesn't reflect that pain but instead the family and friends that lifted her out of the darkness of abuse with their unconditional love, a strong spirit to keep moving forward and her daughters who she makes clear throughout the book are the greatest blessings in her life.
Samantha never gives up, but instead uses the miracles she's experienced and the inner guidance she's received as beacons of light to lead her to the promised land. For many years she suffered through a marriage that was far removed from the image she was given while in the engagement phase of her relationship. Believing her third marriage would be a blessing, it quickly turned into a curse. As her life plunged into an unrelenting nightmare, she remained constant in her faith and continued her work with the children’s ministry she co-founded that provides life-changing surgeries for children from developing countries. Yet, while Samantha kept busy with unselfish endeavors, this period may have been the darkest time of her life, especially when facing divorce and the loss of her children. While this could have sent her into a state of giving up, she met every challenge with a renewed trust that God would protect her even when it appeared that her life was in danger.
Samantha’s faith and the love she has for her girls turned the difficulties they lived into positive situations that has brought each to a place of great success and purpose. I believe Samantha’s story will help others do the same as they look to God as their source of help and guidance. God certainly pursued Samantha, and her book is a wonderful example of what happens when we dare to let God find us!
While I loved Samantha’s colorful description of her roots in Louisiana and her fun childhood experiences, I was also grieved to learn of the suffering she endured as a child because of her mother. Having been abused throughout my childhood gave me an overwhelming sense of compassion for the fears she faced and the darkness that filled her childhood home. Yet her writing doesn't reflect that pain but instead the family and friends that lifted her out of the darkness of abuse with their unconditional love, a strong spirit to keep moving forward and her daughters who she makes clear throughout the book are the greatest blessings in her life.
Samantha never gives up, but instead uses the miracles she's experienced and the inner guidance she's received as beacons of light to lead her to the promised land. For many years she suffered through a marriage that was far removed from the image she was given while in the engagement phase of her relationship. Believing her third marriage would be a blessing, it quickly turned into a curse. As her life plunged into an unrelenting nightmare, she remained constant in her faith and continued her work with the children’s ministry she co-founded that provides life-changing surgeries for children from developing countries. Yet, while Samantha kept busy with unselfish endeavors, this period may have been the darkest time of her life, especially when facing divorce and the loss of her children. While this could have sent her into a state of giving up, she met every challenge with a renewed trust that God would protect her even when it appeared that her life was in danger.
Samantha’s faith and the love she has for her girls turned the difficulties they lived into positive situations that has brought each to a place of great success and purpose. I believe Samantha’s story will help others do the same as they look to God as their source of help and guidance. God certainly pursued Samantha, and her book is a wonderful example of what happens when we dare to let God find us!
January 24, 2013
“Indie Excellence Finalist” Samantha Ryan Chandler has written a love story for the ages. This story could belong to any of us but it’s her story of a love without understanding. Samantha shares her tests, her testimony, and all the twists and turns in between. I don’t want to share too much, because I want you to buy the book, however this young ladies life was at times a nightmare, a dream or what must have seemed like hell! Her experiences can instruct you, encourage you and fill you with a longing for a closer walk with an Almighty God…
Samantha will share her struggles, pain and victories within these pages. The greatest nugget I found in this book – is the truth that our God will pursue us lovingly, mercifully and with great kindness. I would recommend this book to anyone struggling with family issues, difficult life situations or problems you can’t explain!
Below you will find links to read more about the author, or to purchase her book! I encourage you to do just that!
Bio
The tale of Samantha Ryan Chandler's life is evocatively portrayed in her book: A Love Story, How God Pursued Me and Found Me. It tells of a life that is as disturbing and unsettling as it is uplifting and, in the end, gratifying. How "A girl from Nowhere, Louisiana" finds her way from such humble beginnings to live and walk amongst presidents and the supremely rich, only to find her trust and faith betrayed by those that she loved and trusted the most. She would be tested to the point where she began to doubt her own sanity and, at the moment of her greatest desperation and doubt, she was found by God and brought back from the brink of hopeless despair. Blessed with an almost unquenchable optimism and a unique sense of humor, she relates the story of a life that will speak to those who have encountered abuse, unfairness and anguish. Her love for her children and her faith in God carried her through a crucible of fire and in the end, made her a better, stronger person, ready to carry on with a life that is again filled with love, joy and laughter. A Love Story, How God Pursued Me and Found Me will both inspire you and touch your heart.
Blog:
http://wwwSamanthaRyanChandler.com
Twitter: SammieChandler
LinkedIn: SamanthaRyanChandler
Samantha will share her struggles, pain and victories within these pages. The greatest nugget I found in this book – is the truth that our God will pursue us lovingly, mercifully and with great kindness. I would recommend this book to anyone struggling with family issues, difficult life situations or problems you can’t explain!
Below you will find links to read more about the author, or to purchase her book! I encourage you to do just that!
Bio
The tale of Samantha Ryan Chandler's life is evocatively portrayed in her book: A Love Story, How God Pursued Me and Found Me. It tells of a life that is as disturbing and unsettling as it is uplifting and, in the end, gratifying. How "A girl from Nowhere, Louisiana" finds her way from such humble beginnings to live and walk amongst presidents and the supremely rich, only to find her trust and faith betrayed by those that she loved and trusted the most. She would be tested to the point where she began to doubt her own sanity and, at the moment of her greatest desperation and doubt, she was found by God and brought back from the brink of hopeless despair. Blessed with an almost unquenchable optimism and a unique sense of humor, she relates the story of a life that will speak to those who have encountered abuse, unfairness and anguish. Her love for her children and her faith in God carried her through a crucible of fire and in the end, made her a better, stronger person, ready to carry on with a life that is again filled with love, joy and laughter. A Love Story, How God Pursued Me and Found Me will both inspire you and touch your heart.
Blog:
http://wwwSamanthaRyanChandler.com
Twitter: SammieChandler
LinkedIn: SamanthaRyanChandler
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews