Unexpected Love

Unexpected Love is a book written primarily for women by Julie Zine Coleman, with the intent to reveal the concern and love God has for each of us through an in-depth study of Christ's conversation with nine different women. These women include: Mary the mother of Jesus, the hemorrhaging woman who touched His garment, the sinful woman who anointed Him with oil, the Syrophoenician, the adulterer, Martha, the Samaritan at the well, Salome, and Mary Magdalene.

Each chapter is broken into six sections; it begins with the story from Scripture, followed by the author's imagined story of what may have taken place, which helps to draw a more emotional response from the reader. The "Digging Deeper" section asks questions and then answers them with more background information and insight pertaining to the culture of that day. The final three sections are applicable parts for the reader: "For Today's Woman" is the take home points, "Food for Thought" asks self-analyzing questions,  and finally there is a section for journaling.

I found this book to be a quick read. Being one of an academic mindset, I felt that although this book had an extensive notes and bibliographical section, it tread lightly on the information and research. Putting Biblical references and further information in the notes section allowed for a smoother read, but I found myself constantly flipping to the back of the book to read this information. I was also a bit disheartened to see a reference to the apocrypha in it that is given credence similar to the Tanakh in the minds of the Pharisees, as although the book may be included in the Roman Catholic scripture, it was written in Greek (unlike the Hebrew texts of Daniel), was not considered true by the Jews and it's date of origin is debated.

Although this book is well written, I'm not sure I would recommend it without reservations, nor do I consider it to be a "must read"; I do think it could be helpful for some people. I think it is beneficial in reminding women that God is interested in us, no matter our background or current circumstances. Just like these women, He meets us where we are and is intentional about transforming us and developing a relationship with us.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze® book review  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 Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255