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Beautiful Uncertainty

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Blogger and New York Times Bestselling author Mandy Hale has shown women how important it is to be secure in their singleness by being smart, strong, and independent. In this all new book, she will prompt readers to never settle and not miss out on the beauty that can be found in seasons of "waiting." 

Starting with relationships, but going beyond into areas like career, friendships, faith, and life, Mandy guides readers through what you can achieve if you look beyond your current circumstances, never settle for less than what God has for you, and find beauty and purpose in the waiting.

Says "Whether you're walking in seeming never-ending singleness, stuck in a cycle of questioning 'what's next?' or living with any sort of Waiting for love, waiting for babies, waiting for marriage, waiting for a cure, or a miracle, or a sign, or for GOD . . . I hope my journey will make the wait a little easier and the uncertainty a little bit more beautiful."

197 pages, Hardcover

First published December 1, 2015

About the author

Mandy Hale

11 books944 followers
Mandy Hale is affectionately known around the world as "The Single Woman.” In just over three years, Mandy has garnered a massive Twitter following of a half a million people from across the globe. With a heart to inspire single women to live their best lives and to never, ever settle, Mandy cuts to the heart of the matter with her inspirational, straight-talking, witty, and often wildly humorous take on life and love. She’s also not afraid to talk about the many realities of being single in a world that still asks “And WHY are you still single?”

Recently invited by Oprah to cover her “Lifeclass: the Tour” events in St. Louis and New York City as part of OWN’s “VIP Press Corps,” and featured at the Women of Faith conference in Hartford, Connecticut, Mandy has also been named a “Twitter Powerhouse” by the Huffington Post, a "Woman of Influence" by the Nashville Business Journal, and a “Single in the City” by Nashville Lifestyles magazine. She has also been featured in Forbes magazine, Cosmopolitan magazine, the Huffington Post, and is a featured guest blogger for Lifetime’s The Conversation. With followers from all over the world, Mandy has made a name for herself as the voice of empowerment and sassiness for single women across the globe.

Mandy released an e-book in February of 2012 that has gone on to garner rave reviews, and recently signed a two-book deal with Thomas Nelson Publishers. Her first published book, The Single Woman: Life, Love & a Dash of Sass hits shelves this summer.

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5 stars
363 (49%)
4 stars
190 (25%)
3 stars
128 (17%)
2 stars
39 (5%)
1 star
13 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
Profile Image for Liz.
251 reviews2,095 followers
April 19, 2016
5,000 stars because this spoke to my spirit sooooo much! She wrote each part as a "season" which I loved. I also loved the prayers and the places to write stuff. I could see someone using this as a devotional, even if it isn't actually a devo book. She also had bits called "beautiful certainty" which are like God's promises and whatnot.

And that ending/epilogue! Love love love.

Mandy is the kind of writer who makes you feel like she's sitting across with you, encouraging you. Possibly with coffee. Okay, definitely with coffee.

This book is PERFECT for single Christian ladies, whether you've never been on a date or a seasoned veteran and haven't found ~the one~ yet.
Profile Image for Rachel Lacey.
85 reviews4 followers
April 19, 2021
Let me start this review by saying that this book came at exactly the time I needed it in my life.

Mandy (the author) is a single young woman who stepped out in faith to minister to other single ladies by sharing her life story with the world. In a beautifully compelling, tear-jerking way, she shares her heart on falling in love with Jesus.

Through short essays, we learn about the struggle of letting go of loves past and looking forward to loves future. Mandy shares her greatest heartbreak, a man who begged the question: Was I your option while you were my choice?

And this is where it struck a chord in my own story. You've all heard by now that I was in an on again, off again, untitled relationship that recently came to a final end after several years. I've been dealing with a lot of confusion over the entirety of that relationship: Was I really in love (I was)? Did he love me (in his own way, I suppose he did)? Why didn't he fight for me? Was I right to give up (I was, I firmly believe it)? Why did I let myself become so attached to such heartache?

As Mandy shared her story of healing, I found her words nourishing healing in my own heart and soul as well. The similarities in our struggles was almost scary at first, but as I let her speak to my heart, I felt the love of Jesus washing away every last ounce of hurt.

Just as her Mr. E came into her life to teach her total and consistent reliance on Christ, I believe the same of my own love story past.

This book has left me breathless, sobbing, challenged, inspired and feeling courageous. Vulnerable is a good thing. Heartbreak is a good thing. It all leads to total and consistent reliance on the Lord. And there is no one safer to rely on.

I plan to hold onto my copy for many years to come and mark it up with thoughts over the many rereads that will surely take place, especially when undergoing the painful growth of breakups.

I unabashedly campaigned on Facebook while reading and will do so here:

If you are a single young woman or the parent of a single young woman, or even if you just know a single young woman, this book is key. Purchase a copy for yourself and/or for them. I'm serious. I plan to buy copies for several of my friends.

As Augustus Waters once said, "It's a beautiful life..."

Even in its uncertainty.

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from BookLookBloggers in exchange for an honest review. I am so very glad I did. I can't wait to get my hands on Mandy's other books as I'm sure I'll eagerly devour them as well.
Profile Image for Kaitlyn Bouchillon.
Author 1 book131 followers
July 2, 2016
I'd like to say first that I appreciate Mandy's willingness to write on what is a tender subject for many. She was quick to write and inform her reader of her weaknesses, always pointing to God as the source of strength.

I didn't feel that the book flowed, though. It felt choppy, often telling part of a story and then putting a random chapter in between the ending of the story (which would come in the next chapter). The "chapters" were really only 2-4 pages with a place to journal or a prayer at the end, so I never felt like Mandy went far below the surface. This isn't really a reflection on her writing, but a comment on the setup of the book and the frustrating moment of turning a page mid-story and discovering the story was over.

The book is really only written to single women maybe 25+... and it's definitely geared toward those who have dated a good bit. Mandy even writes about the "5 guys (most) girls will fall for" and talks about how there is "the one" we should look for. I personally disagree strongly with the idea of "the one" and was disappointed to find her saying there's only one guy out there for each of woman and we should "keep our eyes open and look for him."

Overall, it's an okay read. But due to the brief overview of stories, I found it lacking depth/substance. Again, this is not a critique on Mandy or her writing, but I believe it's largely due to the setup of the book.
Profile Image for Cheryl.
28 reviews1 follower
April 19, 2016
Yet another great piece.

Embrace the uncertain, you'll get by the certainty at the right time.

I'm up for the beautiful summer night, cool breeze by the beach, looking up with the million of stars at night, bare feet walking on the sand and a great book in hand.

Walk alone if you had to, it's scary but He'll lead you.
341 reviews2 followers
January 31, 2016
In Beautiful Uncertainty: Singleness, Surrender, and Stepping Out on Faith, Mandy Hale (aka “The Single Woman”) talks about navigating singleness and uncertainty and relying on God. The book is written in a friendly, down-to-earth style, and it is both inspirational and encouraging.

Beautiful Uncertainty is probably best suited for single women (who are not in relationships) in their twenties or early thirties. The author shares her own story of leaving an abusive relationship and finding deeper faith as she looks for a new relationship, while also finding joy in singleness.

I really enjoyed Hale’s stories about her different journeys in life. The book has both serious and humorous moments, and Hale writes with energy and heartfelt emotion. She not only talks about waiting for love, but also about facing rejection and break-ups. The book can apply to anyone in a stage of waiting or uncertainty.

Through the book, we learn about Hale’s relationships with people, and most importantly, her relationship with Jesus Christ. I like how the book talks about trusting in God during uncertain times and embracing life’s unpredictability. Each chapter ends with a prayer relating to one’s struggle with certainty.

*I received this book for review*
1 review
December 7, 2015
Loved it! Refreshing and inspiring! I'm getting over a heartache at the age of 51. I know, right? Reading this helped me remember that God is with me and He has a plan for my life!
Profile Image for Mary-Faith.
339 reviews111 followers
May 24, 2018
4.5 / 5 stars

This is the first book I've read by Mandy Hale, and I need her other two books, like, NOW. This was fantastic! This was really applicable to my life right now, and I really did feel inspired by it and like I had come away with some solid advice. I genuinely think I underlined at least half of this book. Mandy's writing style is really beautiful; despite this being nonfiction, it feels very lyrical at times.

Also, please don't let the word "singleness" scare you! This is perfect for anyone who feels like they're in a season of waiting for anything, whether that's a relationship, a job, something academic, something pertaining to your health, etc. I truly think there's something in here for everyone.

I did have to deduct a little half star. I felt like the chapters didn't always quite flow as seamlessly as they could have, which was extra unfortunate since this book was written as a year-in-the-life type of thing and was divided into sections by seasons. But it honestly didn't bother me too much since I still learned something from each chapter. So, it was all good in the end. :)
Profile Image for Mina.
376 reviews8 followers
September 21, 2017
A truly wonderful read. I can feel God talking to me through this book.

"And sometimes the process of becoming the person God wants you to be is painful. You will shed some tears. You might even want to turn back to yesterday when things were easier and seemed to make more sense. But if you decide to trust God and forge ahead anyway, there is indescribable reward. Because change doesn't always look and feel pretty in the moment, but the outcome of change is glorious."
Profile Image for Rachel Lazar.
8 reviews1 follower
June 4, 2017
4.5 stars. This book will definitely help someone find their way to God. It was very meaningful, understandable, and applicable to everyday life. The only compliant I would have is that the book was a tiny bit repetitive.
18 reviews1 follower
January 27, 2018
Great book for those dealing with singleness, especially those who've been broken up with. That isn't me but I still answered the questions inside. They gave me things to think about. Hope my answers are encouraging to you!

If you had to mend a broken relationship, with whom would it be?
Daniela, my Jewish friend
What would you say?
Ask forgiveness for how I acted during Passover last year
I celebrate Passover too, so let her take part in my celebration this year

Shiraz (my Hebrew tutor)
Apologize for addressing her as “Morah (Miss) Otani” even though she wants to be on a first name basis; explain that titles are required in Arabic (which I’m also learning) and I just wanted to reinforce that, especially since “Morah” is “Miss” in both languages
Arrange to meet during Rosh Hashanah-which is, according to Judaic tradition, a time to forgive-to make amends










What can you do for God’s glory that you would be uncomfortable doing by your own strength?

Fast one meal on May 16 (the reason for this Date is between me and God)












What would you ask for if pride or insecurity weren’t holding you back?
From a human? That my friend would sincerely open her heart to solid spiritual teaching


From God? Healing










Profile Image for Piepie | The Napping Bibliophile.
2,083 reviews135 followers
March 1, 2016
I was a little disappointed in this book, and I will tell you why. After reading Mandy's previous two books, The Single Woman and I've Never Been to Vegas..., I feel like she raised the bar really high for this new release... and then totally missed the mark entirely. After reading excerpts and quotes of Beautiful Uncertainty that Mandy would share in emails, her Facebook page, etc., I was expecting something really, really great... and this wasn't it. Mandy is a beautiful writer, don't get me wrong, and has a lot of wise insight, but I didn't get a whole lot out of this book. I felt like there was only a little bit of her "Mr. E," and I was expecting her to allude to him a lot more-- like reveal some great big surprise story or experience. Maybe I would have gotten more out of this book if I had attended one of her "Class, Sass, and Compassion" sessions. And I'm not a "Single Woman" anymore-- like I was when I read Mandy's earlier books. This book is probably destined to be donated to my library's volunteer-run bookstore-- I'm sure someone will get a lot out of it, more than I did.
Profile Image for Steph Carr (LiteraryHypeWoman).
559 reviews26 followers
March 17, 2016
When I first saw this book at the store where I work, I read the title and thought of my current journey, but then jumped to conclusions of "it's probably cheesy just like most Christian single girl books." I ignored it for a couple weeks, but felt drawn toward it every time I walked by the table. Finally, I picked it up to read a bit and decide if it was worth it. It didn't take long for a resounding "yes." It echoed the past couple months of my life, up until the hours before grabbing it. it was convicting and confirmed so many things God has been saying to me that I felt I should write about, but was too scared to do. I nearly cried while reading it at work, to the point one of my male coworkers asked me to not have an emotional meltdown on the sales floor. It's so comforting to know I'm not alone and that my story could have an impact on someone else for the better like Mandy's. This is a must read for ladies!
Profile Image for Deborah-Ruth.
Author 1 book10 followers
September 15, 2017
We all have an idea of where we would like to be headed in the next 2, 5 or 10 years....but what happens when that plan suddenly collapses or never materializes? In Mandy Hale's book she keeps the same bouncy, light-hearted, poetic and pithy style of story-telling as she shares from her own life experiences and also imparts knowledge to other young woman. I really appreciated Mandy's positive outlook on life regardless of what comes her way and her admission that we will never truly know it all so just to enjoy the moment we are in and be along for the journey. Mandy continues to remain my older sister, travelling companion, and literary mentor on this journey through life's challenges and triumphs.
Profile Image for Mallory.
910 reviews
May 15, 2019
I feel like all I need to review this is one big question mark. Perhaps it was my fault. I came in with expectations of what I was going to get, and this book was SO not that. I expected and hoped to received encouragement and insight. Instead I felt like I was reading repetitive journal entries (something I know a thing or two about!). Here's the deal: I had no idea who Mandy Hale was before picking up this book. Didn't know about her "Single Woman" blog or anything else connected to her. And I felt like this was written for her fans. For people who already know about her and her life. Half the time I was dropped into incidents and scenarios and left thinking 'Why should I care?'. She referenced her previous book about Vegas so many times and finally at one point just says, "You need to read my Vegas book," I guess in order to get a better understanding of why she's writing this one now. This wasn't meant to be a critical review. I have nothing but respect for people who stand up for singles and talk about the tough aspects of this life, whether it is for a season or a lifetime. But I've already learned a lot of what she was sharing on my own journey and it seemed to be skewing toward younger, more insecure readers. It just didn't do it for me.
Profile Image for Robyn.
299 reviews
August 20, 2022
Maybe this book just wasn’t for me. I thought it was just ok. There was some nuggets I got from this I really liked, but I feel like it was somewhat… narrow minded in terms of its audience. I identify with aspects of asexuality and aromaticism, so the prospect of marriage is… a possibility, but I really don’t know what the future holds. I feel like this book was written for straight, young, upper/middle class white women who are expecting to get married. As I was reading this book, I kept wondering, yes, there is a joy to waiting and there is a joy to what God is doing now- but what if I never get married? Then what? Am I not able to be happy or live a fruitful life?

I also feel like this was written with the fluffy idea that, as long as you pray and consult God, all your dreams will come true and you will get everything you ask for. But that’s not reality. Not always.

Again, maybe it just wasn’t for me! Maybe I would like her words better via a podcast or a talk, not a book. Sorry to say, but I also have no interest in the Vegas book she wrote, which was only mentioned 5000 times.
Profile Image for Katie.
154 reviews
July 3, 2019
2.5ish 🌠's. I really do love following this author on social media and reading her blog posts because she a lot of helpful encouragement to share. I also enjoyed her 'The Single Woman' book. But this was just lot of fluff. I'm not sure if maybe either the author or publishing company thought another book should be written, just for the sake of writing a book, before there was enough content to fill one. There was definitely a great deal of quotable content, but those core pieces were not enough to fill a book's worth of pages. Used in addition to fill up the book were unecessary long sentences, lots of fluffy content, frequently putting certain phrases in big bold caps that took up a good amount of space, and blank spaces. I'd recommend Hale's 'The Single Woman' book instead.
5 reviews
Read
September 26, 2020
Mandy Hale is one of the worst “self help” authors EVER. Her writing lacks truth in the stories she tells. I have known her personally for several years. The advice she gives is anything far from how she behaves and handles her dating relationship world. She is in fact one of the most narcissistic, mirror worshiping, can give advice and criticism but can’t handle it when thrown back in her face, FAKE person I have ever known. She doesn’t live a “Christian” lifestyle as she likes to claim. Quite honestly, save your money. It’s better spent on a pack of cigarettes.
Profile Image for Days.
102 reviews12 followers
October 22, 2021
This is such a beautiful book for women to read during their season of singleness and it was incredibly helpful for me. It is beautiful how Mandy reminds us that heartbreak is a blessing in disguise because it leads us t have total and complete reliance on God and by reading about her healing, I too felt that I was healed. I highly recommend this book for Christian ladies who are healing from a broken heart or who have grown jaded in love because of the dating game.
7 reviews
December 14, 2017
Totally not my type.
I wanted to be beautifully uncertain as well, the struggles mention were real and everybody faces, but taking god to date, ordering food for him and ending up eating yourself, doesnt really help and doesnt seem logical to me. I was looking for more practical and scientific approach, may be!
Profile Image for Mir Mir.
72 reviews12 followers
August 3, 2018
Wasn't relatable, especially with the explanation on "The Five Guys Most Girls will Love at Some Point of Their Lives". Not everything Hale has been through relates to every girl out there. It had some worthy advice on stepping out on when God askes you to make bold moves in your life that sounds crazy to others or is out of your comfort zone...but that's about it. Wouldn't recommend it.
Profile Image for Karen.
47 reviews2 followers
July 15, 2018
Relatable! Easy and straight forward writing that tells great examples and a journey that all of us have experience. I truly enjoyed the prayers at the end that went along with the story telling and the chapter. I feel I will refer back to this back as I continue my journey in life.
Profile Image for Hot Chocolate Confessions.
158 reviews60 followers
May 11, 2021
Amazing!!!!! Literally spoke right to me! Mandy Hale has a style of writing that just makes her seem to jump out of the book and become your friend. I highly recommend this book to any girl who is struggling to find Gods path for her. Can���t wait to read her other books!
1 review
June 2, 2017
I learned from this book that love is a beautiful summer night, a cool breeze, a million stars in the sky, bare feet and a great book to read like 'beautiful uncertainty'
Profile Image for Shanna.
33 reviews
July 6, 2017
it was OK. Definitely makes some great points, but not enough to make a whole book out of it.
Profile Image for Rachelle.
63 reviews43 followers
February 27, 2019
mandy speaks from experience which makes this book relatable and inspiring. she possessed a gift with words that she filled this book with wisdom and quotable quotes.
Profile Image for Stephanie.
14 reviews
March 28, 2020
I've followed Mandy for over 5 years now and read all her books but her political rhetoric has driven me away.
Profile Image for Gen.
33 reviews1 follower
June 1, 2022
Beautiful ✨
"Maybe sometimes the not knowing is better than the knowing - because in the not knowing, we can write our own ending"
Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews

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