|
READER FEEDBACK |
|
|
|
****************************************************************** Dear Mrs. Carmen Marcoux, At the beginning of this summer I was having
small hopes about relationships. So one of my sorority
sisters gave me your book. Let me just say, that as soon
as I opened it, I could not put it down. The story was so
real. And it felt as if I were a member of their family
and congregation. You have helped me and my relationship with _____. We were dating and then we decided to take some time away and focus on our relationship with God this summer. Your story has helped us put our relationship into perspective. When we do get back together, we will not be dating but courting. I am so blessed that you were inspired to write a story where I felt God was speaking directly to me. Thank You, P.S. I cannot find your book. If there is a way to get the book on-line or at any local store I would love to know. I want to get a copy for my niece so that she may know how important her faith is in the game of life. I do not want her to have to live the same mistakes that I did. ****************************************************************** Carmen, Well, she could not tear me away from the book! I read it for days straight until I finished. I found the book to be truly inspiring and my faith life has grown so much since I read the book. You have given me a new perspective on relationships. Not only is the book a useful tool regarding relationships, it is also a way to learn more about the Catholic Church. Again, I am so happy that I read the book -- my perspective has changed completely. I have talked about the book to so many people and I lent it to my friend, Rebecca, to read. I believe she emailed you a few weeks ago. Thank you so much for such a wonderful book. I told my mom that she needs to hurry and order the book to put in the bookstore! I would love to know if there is anything else that you have written. In Him, ***************************************************************** Dear Carmen, Garrett (17) ****************************************************************** Dear Carmen, I recently finished your book and thought that I would write and tell you what I thought of it. I really loved it . . . and finished it in 2 days. . . I was almost obsessed with finding out what was going to happen next. I'm happy it was only the first week of the new semester, because otherwise I think I would have found myself quite behind in homework. I am going to be pursuing a career in Broadcasting, and am a singer, so I really loved and related to Joanie. There were a few things I really really liked about the book: - The way that she said little prayers to Jesus
and Mary throughout the day. After reading a few chapters I
found myself praying way more often during the day. Just
saying thanks for the sunshine, or asking for help not to get
mad, etc. I think that lots of Catholics pray when they
wake up, and when they go to bed, but miss out all together
during the day. Reading this book made me realize that.
I passed the book on to a friend and she made the same comment
to me. - The way she is open with her parents is great.
I think it is really important to talk to your parents, and I've
recently started to see that more than ever. They actually
have a lot more knowledge than us kids would sometimes like to
think ;) Now that I have written you a novel myself, I would like to wish you and your family good luck, and pray that everything in this world work out as well as it did in your book! God Bless, ****************************************************************** Wow! This is an extremely well done book! I don't think there is a book on the planet that is better than this. It had all the elements of a great novel: it has a terrific story line, true-to-life characters, and a tremendous lesson to be learned by all. Courtship is truly the best way path to take before marriage. It was so hard for me to believe that the book was finished when I completed it. I wished that it was not done yet and some how I hoped that the story would continue. There is much more to happen in the wonderful lives of Joanie and Brandon. Courtship is such a broad and interesting topic. When I was finished reading the book I had a great amount of questions answered that I had on the matter. I was so interested in the issue of courtship that I chose "Courtship vs. Dating" to be my topic in an essay that I was to write for a Christian Ethics class at school. I felt like an expert on the matter after reading the book, Arms of Love, that I knew that it would be easy for me to write an essay on the subject. One element that made it such an interesting novel to read was that I know Carmen quite well. She is such a bringer of life to the church I attend. I don't think the church would be quite so interesting without Carmen Marcoux attending. It was so neat to be able to picture Carmen saying something that was in her book. I was always thinking to myself, "Oh that is exactly what Carmen would say in a situation like this." This was sincerely the best book I have read in my entire life. I don't think I will ever read a better book. It was so gripping that it felt like a movie to me. This was the only book that I actually took time to read this school year. I would literally make time for myself to read this book on weekdays. I have never done that throughout the school days unless it was necessary for school. I even stayed up very late on school nights reading it, later than I usually would. I would also read it before I left for school. I would read it during school when we had reading time in English. As soon as I got home from school I would read right 'til supper time. Then after supper and dishes I would read as long as I could without interruptions. This sadly lasted only a week and a half since books do have to end sometime, though I wish it did not have to end. The night I finished it I didn't fall asleep because I was pondering over all the things that happened throughout the entire book. I have done my very best to recommend this book to other friends of mine. It is truly a must-read for a person that is or is not practicing and seeking a pure, holy, Christian (Catholic) relationship. I hope that someday my life might be as nice as Brandon and Joanie's. The characters felt very real to me. I wish that I could have been a part of there lives somehow. I do look forward to a sequel to this awesome novel. Carmen is such a talented person. She is an excellent writer for one thing, but she is also an excellent speaker on courtship too. Most of all, she is a tremendous choir director and I am truly glad to take part in that ministry with her. I do hope there to be a sequel to this awesome book someday. I will hope and pray that it will be possible. I do understand how much work it is to write a novel; I have so much trouble even writing a ten page story! In good time good things will happen. I really hope that as many people possible will have a chance to read this book. If so many, many lives would be changed. I know that it certainly changed my life, and oh did I mention that it is the GREATEST BOOK EVER! There is so much corruption in the world that needs to change and this is certainly one thing that will help in a big way. This book really changed my perspective on things and I hope it would change other people's perspective also. Thanks for writing this truly amazing story. Daniel (14 years old)
****************************************************************** This is too funny. I just looked into the
living room and there is my 12 year old dear daughter, who has
been begging me to read your book, reading it with permission
and already at page 72 (she started late this morning) and my
dear son reading it again and is half way through. I am
sure glad I have two copies of your novel. Now I hope my
youngest son is so fortunate to Delighted Mom ****************************************************************** Dear Carmen, Hi! I'm so excited to write this email to you! My name is Jennifer. . . . I was more than excited to write and explain how much God has inspired, gifted and challenged me with your book, Arms of Love. I encountered your book, I think about a year ago. A friend gave me his copy to read. I had no clue what the book was about, and I had told him that I would read it, but because of upcoming exams I would have to hold up on reading it until about the beginning of February, when my exams would be done. When I began to read it, I found myself doing nothing else but reading your book! I couldn't put it down! I still can't believe that I had this book in my house for 2 months and I hadn't read it! I've already read it probably around 4 times, and I continually go back to it for a reference. I am so glad that God put it on your heart to write such and amazing book! I was amazed at how much Joanie reminded me of myself... I loved her persistence to always seek God and to remain in his love even when temptation began to approach her. I loved the way that she abided by her own morals and the ones set out by her father, and most definitely that she didn't compromise anything, especially her first kiss! I find that so inspirational. The way that Brandon respected her for just being just her and he didn't want to compromise anything with her as well. He saw her as a blameless lamb and that she was a true treasure. In this day and age... I wish that more men would be like that! I pray that God would bless me as he did both Joanie and Brandon in their relationship in your book. I was blessed to have even read it and I got so much information while reading, especially clearing a lot of "fuzziness" about courting. I also loved the approach of the couple being married in Catholic Church! You don't see a lot of books where couples are abiding by the teachings of the Catholic Church! And I absolutely loved it! I can't tell you enough about how much I loved your book! I recommend it to ALL of my friends, because even though it is a fictional book... it has so much truth to it, and that gives me hope to wait for something better than what only this world has to offer me. God is in control and I know that he can bless us tremendously through our patience to wait and to keep our eyes completely focused on him. Thank you so much for your "yes" to God (just as Mary's "yes") to write this book! May God Bless you and your family, PS: Another thing I absolutely loved was that I knew some of the places that you mentioned in your book, I grew up only a hour away from Saskatoon and I loved to be able to relate to the book in that way as well! ****************************************************************** Hi Carmen! Heather ****************************************************************** First of all, this is my second time ordering from you! I received the book and CD on Wednesday in Holy Week, and I can't even begin to explain the impact it had on me!! I had started a novena to St. Therese, asking her to protect and guide my future husband, whoever he is, during this Easter season. I took the arrival of the book and CD, which I did not expect until after Easter and which came during the novena, very timely, to be the answer to my prayer. In fact, it arrived when I was praying about it. I could not put the book down, and I resolved not to listen to the song until I had finished the book. I listened to the song on Easter Sunday, and it was such a beautiful climax to my novena, I couldn't believe it! This novel (and the song) is just so incredibly awesome and inspiring, it helped me to get past some issues I had been struggling with. I wanted to thank you again for this beautiful ministry you are in! THANK YOU SO MUCH!!! Jessica ****************************************************************** Hi Carmen, My name is Dolores and I have read your book, Arms of Love. Well done. Yes, I hope God does provide you with the needed inspiration and time to write more novels. God Bless you and your family, Dolores p.s. See you in Aug. in Pictou, Nova Scotia ****************************************************************** Hello Carmen: Debbie ****************************************************************** Dear Carmen, Thank you so much for taking such time to
respond to my question. A friend of my daughter lent us your book and gave me your e-mail address. Thank you for writing a good book. It is such a needed one. May I suggest that chapter 54 could be used as a short story by itself. Catholic magazines could use such a good analysis of the emotional dynamics in a family. I like your idea that emotions within a family are like ripples in a pond. I also like how you emphasize the idea that there is a choice that can be made about how we react to a situation. Finally, I love I love the fact that the chain reaction is broken by a small child. May God bless you and your family. M.E. Bartle ******************************************************************
Carmen,
A homeschooling friend of mine graciously sent me an autographed (thank you!) copy of your book this past Christmas. I DEVOURED the book in three nights! The story sucked me in and kept me interested all the way through. I found myself, alone, reading 'til all hours and crying during some of the most touching parts. I hope to teach our daughters and sons about courtship as they come of age. I only have one more thing to add... when are you going to write another? Thanks and God bless, ****************************************************************** Dear Carmen, I have just finished reading your book today, and decided to check out the website. I had not thought to send feedback but in reading some of your own responses I realized how important it may be for you, even if I am but a single reader. But then, you yourself are but a single person and look how far you got and how many people you have helped. I found the amount of feedback you received most impressive. Your book has been most inspiring. I especially liked the part near the end when the Collinses were having a bad day, Aaron's strength to go against the "sinful ripples" has encouraged me to work harder against the temptations of sin and "choose to love". You have written a truly wonderful book! Thank you and God Bless. Carolyn (age 15, Nova Scotia) ****************************************************************** My name is Ewelina and I am a 25 year old female living in California. I stumbled upon your website a few months back and order your book. I didn't expect to receive anything, so when I did I was pleasantly surprised. I delved into the book right anyway and fell in love with it. Even though I am a Catholic I was never really introduced to the idea of courtship. I thought it was out dated and not practical. I firmly believe in Chastity and try my best to live that lifestyle, but I never knew what to do from there if I should meet someone. Reading your book opened up new doors and provided me with a solid foundation in regards to starting a relationship. I tell everyone about the book and I refer to Joanie and Brandon as if they were real people that I actually knew. I let my 20 year old female friend borrow the book and she loved it. We both recently purchased Chastity Rings and are very committed to the idea of court! ship and see the value in it. God bless you and the work that you do. I know that things in life happen for a reason so I'm sure there was a reason why I had to read your book, if for nothing else then to simply spread the word about it to those that I know. Well once again, thank you for your marvelous book. In Christ,
****************************************************************** I really enjoyed your book and gave
the copy I had to my 13 year Kirsten
****************************************************************** God Bless, ****************************************************************** Dear Carmen, God bless. ****************************************************************** Dear Carmen, In Jesus,
******************************************************************
****************************************************************** Sincerely, A Response from Carmen:
Blessings -- In His Most Holy Name, ******************************************************************
Dear Carmen, Peace.
****************************************************************** In Christ, ****************************************************************** Dear Carmen, Nicole ******************************************************************
Carmen, Mykaela (18 years
old)
****************************************************************** Heather (Calgary, Alberta) P.S. I am originally from Swift Current, and apparently it is a Saskatchewan thing to call hooded sweatshirts BUNNYHUGS (I get bugged about that a lot here in Alberta) and so I got a kick out of you using that term, and I had show all my friends to prove I didn't make it up! A Response from Carmen:
A reply from Heather: Dear Carmen,
******************************************************************
Kathy P.S. Mutual friends are the ones
who shared your book with me. Joe and I are on the Pro-Live Committee with
these friends. I also have listened to Mark Mallet's CD 'Arms of
Love', beautiful!!!
Sincerely,
****************************************************************** Leslie
******************************************************************
Niki, St.Nicholas PEI
******************************************************************
This past summer a friend lent me your
book Arms of Love. I absolutely loved the book and was
inspired to give up dating and all of the heartache that goes along with
it. I am going to wait for my future husband to ask my father if he could
court me, and it's ok if that doesn't happen for a while. God knows when
the right time will be. Your book totally changed my life for the
better. Christine
******************************************************************
I am writing to express my deepest gratitude to you for
writing the novel, Arms of Love. It was truly
inspirational. I thank God everyday for people like you and
your ministry.
My name is Lisa and I live in Vancouver, British
Columbia. Your book was recommended to me by a friend. I'm 26 and
have been struggling with waiting for "Mr. Right". Your book
has given me a fresh new outlook on courting vs. dating.
I found the character Joanie to be absolutely inspirational.
Her constant devotion to our Lord and her resolve to guard her
heart had reminded me of my need to love the Lord above all
and to trust in Him, that He will provide a man who can love
me the way I deserve to be loved.
I am truly grateful for the gift God has given you, and I know
that your novel will continue to inspire many more young women
to guard their hearts and wait for the man whom Jesus,
Himself, has picked for them.
Thank you once again ****************************************************************** Dear Carmen, Yours truly,
****************************************************************** + Yours in
Christ,
******************************************************************
God Bless ****************************************************************** Dear Carmen, I am writing to you to say how much I have enjoyed your wonderful book, "Arms of Love". The beautiful cover pulled me in and I quickly became absorbed in it. Not only is it beautifully written, with characters who become like friends, but it proclaims the truth of chastity and the glory of man and woman, with a boldness which is necessary amidst the false voices of this secular world. Congratulations on presenting this in such an arresting and deeply moving way. I wonder if you will be writing a sequel which explores the marriage of Joanie and Brandon? I quite miss them now that I have finished the novel! At any rate I wish you every success and many blessings in your creative writing ministry which will bring light and healing to many. With warm wishes and thanks,
Susan ****************************************************************** Dear Carmen, I have just finished reading your book "Arms of Love" and wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed it. Your sister, Louise, handed it to me one day after a visit. A few days later I opened it to see what it was like, but being busy with other things I wasn't intending on reading it just yet. It was so interesting that I could not put it down! I intend to buy copies to give to others I know who need to hear about chastity and courtship. This is a wonderful way to get the message out! Well done! Sincerely, ******************************************************************
Dear Mrs. Marcoux, Stephen (11) ****************************************************************** An exciting, heart-touching story about Christian courtship in the modern world. Arms of Love is a "must-read" for every young adult seeking God-honouring romance and a lasting marriage. Stacey (17) ****************************************************************** I got a copy of your book and it was awesome. It was so great, and the ONLY book I've EVER read more then once, except maybe The Cat in the Hat, but he doesn't count. It was amazing reading about the beautiful romance shared between this couple. I also loved all the side stories about their family and friends, and every character is introduced so well that you never forget who is who.
My personal favourite chapter was chapter 6 when they are, in a way,
fighting over beliefs, and you know one of them will come on top and
bring the other one along. I enjoyed this book so much, and sincerely
thank you for writing it. You are truly a talented author, God has
blessed you with an amazing ability that has surely not gone to waste.
David,
13 **************** |