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A Search for Purple Cows: A True Story of Hope
A wife and mother's amazing journey from darkness into a life fully restored in God's light. A whimsical comment from a kind stranger, 'Be sure to search for purple cows,' brings hope to a woman and her children fleeing from a life filled with trouble. In A Search for Purple Cows, Susan Call reveals to the world how painful a relationship can be when love deteriorates into a cycle of abuse and betrayal. Her moving memoir chronicles how she first met her husband, a handsome, stylish, generous man with whom she worked. Eventually they fell in love, married, and had two children. Their life seemed idyllic -- they had a beautiful home and everything a family could desire. But soon, inside those walls, Call was tormented by her husband's alcoholism, domestic abuse, and infidelity that cast her family into a world fraught with fear and despair. God found her in the midst of her pain, and showed her, through the unlikely source of a Christian radio station, that a journey toward Him was possible even in the most unthinkable circumstances. Call eventually found the strength to move on and start anew. Written with candor and grace, A Search for Purple Cows will leave you laughing, crying, and believing that God is present and able, ready to bring hope and healing.
232 pages, Paperback
First published October 22, 2012
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
September 23, 2020
I read an excerpt from this book in Guideposts and it really struck a chord with me. At the time I was in a domestic violence situation, and completely understood what the author was going through. Like her, I was fortunate enough to get out of my marriage, but my ex was also abusive toward my kids, and it took him severely beating my daughter and being convicted of felony child abuse for me to get some protection from him. I'm still living in fear, but the author has inspired me to trust God and believe that He will keep my children and I safe. He already has led me to a job that I love and a good man who loves all of us. I recommend this book to every woman, because they all need to know the warning signs of an abuser.
October 17, 2013
My Review: Susan Call's A Search for Purple Cows is an invaluable source for those of us lost, broken, seeking, searching, needing to heal. Her book touches the very core of the person not sure where to turn, how to call out to, unsure of the very faith that you might have had all along but lost along the way. Her words, true and just, reach right into the soul and make you say "I'm not alone."
Written from the heart from her own personal journey, her message is clear. You don't have to have a life of being married to an alcoholic - your pain, your suffering, your fear, your worries, your demons can be of any walk of life, but one thing is clear - God has not forsaken us in the midst. One point Susan Call makes is "many people are hurt by a range of issues, and those hurts become a personal prison. But it does not have to be that way. We have a loving God who can set us free if we focus on him instead of the which threatens to devour us!" Remarkably, this book touches the person who is lost, betrayed, scared, alone ... even though her story is that of a dutiful husband and the secret that lies below that eventually tears at their marriage, its' a great source to remind us that there is hope after heartache.
This book was a great reminder that we may not have the road map in the journey of life. We may have to readjust the sails and plan another route. Take a chance and give yourself that gift of knowing you are a worth the steps forward and you can leave the bad stuff behind. I highly recommend this book for anyone searching on a personal journey for healing and strength!
Disclaimer: A copy of this book was provided to me (to review and give my honest opinion) by The B&B Media Group. The opinion expressed above is my own.
November 17, 2013
A wife and mother's amazing journey from darkness into a life fully restored in God's light.
A whimsical comment from a kind stranger, 'Be sure to search for purple cows,' brings hope to a woman and her children fleeing from a life filled with trouble. In A Search for Purple Cows, Susan Call reveals to the world how painful a relationship can be when love deteriorates into a cycle of abuse and betrayal. Her moving memoir chronicles how she first met her husband, a handsome, stylish, generous man with whom she worked. Eventually they fell in love, married, and had two children. Their life seemed idyllic -- they had a beautiful home and everything a family could desire. But soon, inside those walls, Call was tormented by her husband's alcoholism, domestic abuse, and infidelity that cast her family into a world fraught with fear and despair. God found her in the midst of her pain, and showed her, through the unlikely source of a Christian radio station, that a journey toward Him was possible even in the most unthinkable circumstances. Call eventually found the strength to move on and start anew. Written with candor and grace, A Search for Purple Cows will leave you laughing, crying, and believing that God is present and able, ready to bring hope and healing.
Susan Call has written a great tool that can encourage women all over how to break the cycle of domestic abuse. One thing people don't realize, that she has brought out into the open, is that abuse isn't always physical. The mental and emotional abuse is hard for people on the outside to see. I applaud Ms. Call on what she has written.
I also appreciate the fact that she leans on her faith in this book, and I hope that others in her situation will do the same.
I received this book free from The B&B Media Group . I was not required to write a positive review and 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.”
A whimsical comment from a kind stranger, 'Be sure to search for purple cows,' brings hope to a woman and her children fleeing from a life filled with trouble. In A Search for Purple Cows, Susan Call reveals to the world how painful a relationship can be when love deteriorates into a cycle of abuse and betrayal. Her moving memoir chronicles how she first met her husband, a handsome, stylish, generous man with whom she worked. Eventually they fell in love, married, and had two children. Their life seemed idyllic -- they had a beautiful home and everything a family could desire. But soon, inside those walls, Call was tormented by her husband's alcoholism, domestic abuse, and infidelity that cast her family into a world fraught with fear and despair. God found her in the midst of her pain, and showed her, through the unlikely source of a Christian radio station, that a journey toward Him was possible even in the most unthinkable circumstances. Call eventually found the strength to move on and start anew. Written with candor and grace, A Search for Purple Cows will leave you laughing, crying, and believing that God is present and able, ready to bring hope and healing.
Susan Call has written a great tool that can encourage women all over how to break the cycle of domestic abuse. One thing people don't realize, that she has brought out into the open, is that abuse isn't always physical. The mental and emotional abuse is hard for people on the outside to see. I applaud Ms. Call on what she has written.
I also appreciate the fact that she leans on her faith in this book, and I hope that others in her situation will do the same.
I received this book free from The B&B Media Group . I was not required to write a positive review and 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.”
November 1, 2013
A Search For Purple Cows is an inspirational story of one woman's personal journey of survival from an abusive marriage, and having the strength and faith to rebuild her life.
In her poignant memoir, author Susan Call documents her emotional journey of living and escaping from a very tumultuous marriage to an alcoholic, that was filled with a traumatic cycle of domestic abuse and infidelity. In her memoir, the author documents the stages of her life from her upbringing to portraying the illusion of a perfect marriage and family life that was really a facade that masked its tumultuous reality. After eight years of living in a marriage that was unraveling due to her husband's behavior, Susan was forced to make an emotionally difficult decision to leave the marriage for the safety of her children and herself. Through her strength, hope and faith, Susan demonstrates that any person can escape, overcome, and heal from the dark times, and move forward as they rebuild their life.
A Search For Purple Cows is one woman's powerful testimony of how she transformed her life. You can't help but feel compassion for Susan and her family as they courageously escaped a very dangerous family life for one that is now stable, happy and loving. Through her courage, strength, and faith, Susan is not a victim but a survivor, and her admirable ability to show forgiveness and understanding is truly inspirational. This is a wonderful story that is a testament to the true beauty of God's grace, and sheds light of empowerment for others to follow if they find themselves facing similar difficult life challenges.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author / publisher in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by The B&B Media Group, Inc.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
In her poignant memoir, author Susan Call documents her emotional journey of living and escaping from a very tumultuous marriage to an alcoholic, that was filled with a traumatic cycle of domestic abuse and infidelity. In her memoir, the author documents the stages of her life from her upbringing to portraying the illusion of a perfect marriage and family life that was really a facade that masked its tumultuous reality. After eight years of living in a marriage that was unraveling due to her husband's behavior, Susan was forced to make an emotionally difficult decision to leave the marriage for the safety of her children and herself. Through her strength, hope and faith, Susan demonstrates that any person can escape, overcome, and heal from the dark times, and move forward as they rebuild their life.
A Search For Purple Cows is one woman's powerful testimony of how she transformed her life. You can't help but feel compassion for Susan and her family as they courageously escaped a very dangerous family life for one that is now stable, happy and loving. Through her courage, strength, and faith, Susan is not a victim but a survivor, and her admirable ability to show forgiveness and understanding is truly inspirational. This is a wonderful story that is a testament to the true beauty of God's grace, and sheds light of empowerment for others to follow if they find themselves facing similar difficult life challenges.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author / publisher in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by The B&B Media Group, Inc.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
October 11, 2013
Let me just start by saying….I COULD NOT STOP READING THIS BOOK!
It’s written so well, I felt like I was reading a novel and kept reminding myself that THIS IS NOT FICTION!
I was pulled into Susan’s story. I was easily dazzled by Joe’s flirty advances and felt her tug-of-war between Blake and Joe.
The early signs of jealousy, isolation and manipulation worried me.
When Joe tricks Susan into thinking he has to move across the country, she fears it will be the end of their relationship….and later tells her that he made it all up- to test her loyalty….it really ticked me off!
And all this, before they marry!
Joe’s childhood stories were heartbreaking (abusers have usually been abused themselves).
There are moments in the book where I felt everything would be okay and other moments that were so hard to read (especially knowing that these things really happened).
What I really love about this book is that it makes God BIG! Bigger than our problems, our grief, our heartache and our pain.
But just what in the world do PURPLE COWS have to do with all of this????
You’ll have to read to find out!!!!
It’s written so well, I felt like I was reading a novel and kept reminding myself that THIS IS NOT FICTION!
I was pulled into Susan’s story. I was easily dazzled by Joe’s flirty advances and felt her tug-of-war between Blake and Joe.
The early signs of jealousy, isolation and manipulation worried me.
When Joe tricks Susan into thinking he has to move across the country, she fears it will be the end of their relationship….and later tells her that he made it all up- to test her loyalty….it really ticked me off!
And all this, before they marry!
Joe’s childhood stories were heartbreaking (abusers have usually been abused themselves).
There are moments in the book where I felt everything would be okay and other moments that were so hard to read (especially knowing that these things really happened).
What I really love about this book is that it makes God BIG! Bigger than our problems, our grief, our heartache and our pain.
But just what in the world do PURPLE COWS have to do with all of this????
You’ll have to read to find out!!!!
November 22, 2013
I won this book on Goodreads. Don't usually pick up books based on true stories. I COULD NOT PUT THIS BOOK DOWN. I had to stay up and finish it. Now I have a list of people that I want to give this book to. I was amazed how she told the story of her life. At first all I could think was she isn't married to an abusive husband (I was) then as the story progressed I saw and felt the fear she lived with. I could relate because my marriage looked good on the outside - it was behind closed doors that was bad. I admire Ms. Call for putting her life into a story that many people can relate to. There are so many living in fear as she did. Her personal walk with God is an inspiration to everyone (even if they aren't in abusive relationships). We all need to fully rely on God in each and every situation. This book touched my heart and made me realize that I have some forgiveness to work on so that I can be truly free of my past and move on to my future. I can't say enough about this book except that it is a "MUST READ" for everyone.
January 14, 2014
Living in the will of God is never so hard as when life is falling apart. A Search for Purple Cows takes you on a life lesson you won't forget. Susan found the prince she thought she wanted, showering her with gifts and words that made her days. Soon she found her self in a life much different than that of the Disney pictures. An abusive husband belittling her at almost every chance to a down right fear for her life run with her children. Susan thankfully found herself in the arms of God, never leaving her side, she often went with His word when it seemed so wrong and against the logical action.
In the end I find myself draw closer to God with out a slap in the face to do so. Not in a relationship like hers at all, but none the less in a life of question and worry Susan's story leads me to better live a life of God's will. Knowing that no matter how bad things get, or seem to get, God is watching and guiding. All I need to do is listen.
In the end I find myself draw closer to God with out a slap in the face to do so. Not in a relationship like hers at all, but none the less in a life of question and worry Susan's story leads me to better live a life of God's will. Knowing that no matter how bad things get, or seem to get, God is watching and guiding. All I need to do is listen.
July 30, 2016
This book is so engaging and the story so unreal, you will forget you are reading non-fiction! Susan does a fantastic job drawing the reader in to her story, allowing us to empathize with her and experience her emotions and surroundings. This book is a must read especially for those who have struggled with abuse or feelings of hopelessness in their circumstances. Despite the heavy situation, the author does a good job relating her situation to others in a myriad of other circumstances. She beautifully points others to the true hope that can only be found in letting go of our hurt, insecurity, anger and fear and allowing God to show up in the details of our lives as only He can. I had such a hard time putting this book down, and highly recommend it!
October 18, 2013
The author has overcome a life of abuse and has written her story to help others. Too many times women ignore the little warning signs as she did. How sad to think of the many women going through this daily.
I wasn't impressed with the writing style and felt the story could have been told better, the effect wasn't as powerful as it could've been. People need to be made aware and need to know what to do to help someone in a relationship like this. Abuse is horrible and no one should have to endure it. I'm thankful the author escaped this terrible marriage.
I received a copy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I wasn't impressed with the writing style and felt the story could have been told better, the effect wasn't as powerful as it could've been. People need to be made aware and need to know what to do to help someone in a relationship like this. Abuse is horrible and no one should have to endure it. I'm thankful the author escaped this terrible marriage.
I received a copy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
October 31, 2013
It is every woman's nightmare, marrying an attentive man only to find out he is possessive, controlling and threatening. Susan tried hard to stay in the marriage until their daughter began having nightmares about daddy hurting mommy. Susan planned her escape well, with the help of many friends. But then there was the custody issues. In the end, Susan has forgiven him. That she became a Christian during her marriage was crucial to her survival and subsequent new life. This is not an easy book to read as I did not like about the terror a man can instill in his wife. Women who are in a similar situation will find encouragement and hope, however. See my full review at http://bit.ly/1hwvgzm.
October 27, 2014
A true story that one can't put down. Gave me some insight on why someone stays in an abusive relationship (or even ends up in one in the first place). The author has overcome a life of abuse and has written her story to help others. Too many times women ignore the little warning signs as she did. How sad to think of the many women going through this daily. I won this copy of " A Search For Purple Cows" through a Goodreads/Firstreads givaway.
December 20, 2013
Susan Call goes to my church and after she told me that she had written a book, I raced out to buy it. Susan details her journey through an emotionally abusive marriage, a controlling husband, all the while "putting up a front" as the ultimate all American family. As she carefully maneuvered thru each day, she gained strenght thru her faith, dependence on God, and of all things, Christian radio. This is a remarkable story and I am glad to report that Susan smiles alot these days!!
January 17, 2014
This isn't usually the type of book I'd read, but, my Grandma lent it to me. While at times, I wanted to reach into the story and shake some sense into the Author, when she'd mention 'Red Flags' in the relationship with her, eventually, Ex-Husband, but would decide to ignore them and ended up married to a verbally abusive, drunken, adulterer. However, the book is about answered prayers and how God is always watching your back, even when you might think he isn't listening.
November 28, 2013
I won a copy of this book in a goodreads giveaway.
This book was amazing! It was one of the most inspirational books I have read in a long, long time. This is a definite read for anybody has been, or currently is in, an abusive relationship. It provides hope, inspiration, and faith that you can have a better life, even if you cannot see a way out.
This book was amazing! It was one of the most inspirational books I have read in a long, long time. This is a definite read for anybody has been, or currently is in, an abusive relationship. It provides hope, inspiration, and faith that you can have a better life, even if you cannot see a way out.
November 16, 2013
This is a well-written, true story of a woman who survived years of mental and emotional abuse at the hand of her husband. When the favorite hits-of-the-day radio station she listened to daily on her commute to work changed overnight to a Christian station, she became curious and continued to listen. I had a hard time putting this book down.
February 13, 2014
A story of an abused woman who finds the strength to leave her abusive husband. It is not only a story of her strength but the faith and forgiveness she finds during her journey by reaching out to God.
August 6, 2014
Today in between errands and meetings I read this amazing true story of a woman's faith in God amidst a volatile marriage. In the last few pages I realized she lives in the same hometown as we do! What a page turning awesome testimony!
December 15, 2014
A Telling tale of betrayal in a most absurd situation. This story shows deception at its best yet offers hope in the struggle. I met this fellow author at a writing conference and through intrigue ordered the book. I loved the outcome.
December 8, 2014
Susan's story reads like fiction. Powerful, compelling, yet with the authenticity of her own harsh reality. The high point for me, perhaps, was the turning point of forgiveness, but this is closely followed by Joe's repentance. A story of grace and renewal, and yes, HOPE--the "purple cow" variety.
April 14, 2013
Could not put this down.
December 11, 2013
This was the best book I have read in long time! The story was heart-wrenching, inspiring and uplifting at the same time. What amazing triumphs can occur when we let God lead our lives!
October 22, 2013
Christian based memoir. About an abusive and horrifying husband (he must have had a personality disorder) and how his wife worked her way out of the marriage. It's a page turner.
August 26, 2014
Great read! It kept me on the edge of my seat!
November 17, 2013
five stars for the story and the cover :)
November 28, 2013
Susan Call is a former coworker of mine and I had the pleasure of reading the first version of this book. Now need to read this version!
January 26, 2014
A true story that one can't put down. Gave me some insight on why someone stays in an abusive relationship (or even ends up in one in the first place).
April 3, 2014
Chillingly familiar and at times difficult to read. Halfway through it became very preachy and I couldn't finish.
August 5, 2014
Good, unfortunate that it was a true story, but wonderful to read and see how faith in Jesus worked in real life .
August 13, 2014
A sobering tale of an abusive relationship and the woman who is able to find faith and strength during and after this frightening time.
September 1, 2022
How can such a perfect life hide such fear and sorrow? The beautiful house, the career, the two kids, and a generous husband it seemed everything should have been perfect for Susan. But hidden under the smiles was a life of manipulation, betrayal, and threats. It’s heartbreaking.
It doesn’t have a storybook ending, but it has something far better, a testimony of love, hope, and faithfulness. Even before her life fell apart completely, Susan reached the end of her own strength. Then through one of those little ‘flukes’ that God orchestrates in our lives, she found the Lord in a whole new way. She realized that He isn’t just someone in a Sunday School story, He is the Savior of our souls, ever faithful, true, and loving. It was through Him that she found the strength to do the impossible for her family.
My only complaint is that the Gospel is not shared clearly. I know it is written for a Christian audience. But for a book that gives such glory to the Lord and invites the reader to lean on Him through everything, it never fully explains how one can come to know Him as a personal Savior.
Still, I completely recommend it.
It doesn’t have a storybook ending, but it has something far better, a testimony of love, hope, and faithfulness. Even before her life fell apart completely, Susan reached the end of her own strength. Then through one of those little ‘flukes’ that God orchestrates in our lives, she found the Lord in a whole new way. She realized that He isn’t just someone in a Sunday School story, He is the Savior of our souls, ever faithful, true, and loving. It was through Him that she found the strength to do the impossible for her family.
My only complaint is that the Gospel is not shared clearly. I know it is written for a Christian audience. But for a book that gives such glory to the Lord and invites the reader to lean on Him through everything, it never fully explains how one can come to know Him as a personal Savior.
Still, I completely recommend it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews