Book Review – Tina Unsell

Introduction

Deeper by Dane Ortlund is a thoughtful and Christ-centered book that explores what it means to grow in the Christian life beyond surface-level faith. It focuses on spiritual depth that comes not from striving harder, but from resting more fully in the person and work of Christ.

This book builds on themes of grace, transformation, and ongoing spiritual formation, pointing the reader back again and again to the heart of Jesus.

My Thoughts

This book felt like a gentle but steady invitation to move away from shallow or performance-based faith and into something deeper and more rooted in Christ.

What stood out to me:

The focus on spiritual growth as a work of grace rather than effort

The repeated emphasis on the heart of Christ in transformation

The calm, reflective tone that encourages slowing down and thinking deeply

How it impacted me:

It reminded me that growth in faith is not rushed or forced

It encouraged me to rest in what Christ is doing rather than what I am trying to achieve

It gave me a deeper appreciation for God’s patience in spiritual formation

Writing style / tone:

Reflective and theological but accessible

Calm and steady rather than urgent

Focused on depth rather than surface application

Final Thoughts

Deeper is a steady and thoughtful reminder that true Christian growth is rooted in grace rather than effort. It calls the reader to slow down and consider the depth of Christ’s work in shaping the heart over time.

This is a book I would recommend to anyone who desires a more grounded, reflective, and Christ-centered understanding of spiritual growth.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Introduction

Closer Than Your Next Breath by Susie Larson is a deeply encouraging devotional-style book that focuses on the nearness and presence of God in everyday life. It invites readers to slow down and recognize that God is not distant or disconnected, but intimately involved in every detail of our lives.

This book feels especially comforting for seasons of stress, uncertainty, or spiritual dryness. It gently points the reader back to truth: God is closer than we often feel or realize.

My Thoughts

This book felt like a steady reminder to rest in the presence of God instead of striving to feel spiritually “strong” all the time. It brought my attention back to the simple truth that God is near, even when emotions or circumstances don’t reflect it.

What stood out to me:

The consistent reminder of God’s nearness in everyday moments
The gentle, encouraging tone that feels like steady reassurance
The focus on trust rather than striving or performance

How it impacted me:

It helped me slow down spiritually and reflect more intentionally
It reminded me that feelings are not the measure of God’s presence
It encouraged me to trust God even in quiet or uncertain seasons

Writing style / tone:

Warm and devotional
Easy to read and reflective
Encouraging without being overly complex

Key Themes

God’s constant presence
Trusting God in uncertainty
Prayer as connection rather than performance
Resting in spiritual reassurance

Who I Would Recommend This To

Anyone walking through anxiety or uncertainty
Readers who enjoy devotional encouragement
Those wanting to grow in awareness of God’s presence
Women’s Bible study or small group settings

Favorite Quote

“God is closer than your next breath, even when you don’t feel Him.”

Final Thoughts

Closer Than Your Next Breath is a gentle and steady reminder of God’s nearness in every season. It does not overwhelm the reader with complexity, but instead offers consistent encouragement rooted in truth.

This is a book I would recommend to anyone who needs reassurance that they are not walking through life alone, even when it feels quiet or uncertain.

👉 Buy on Amazon