READER FEEDBACK

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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.
Through your story, I not only learned more about relationships, but also about my faith.  It was so much easier for me to understand our Catholic Church than any other book I had that focused on the Church.

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,
Rebecca (20 years old)

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.

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Carmen,

I wanted to tell you how much I enjoyed your book!  You mailed a copy of the book to my mother, Lori.  She works at Heart of the Heights bookstore
in Concord, New Hampshire.  When I came home for summer break she gave me the book to read to see if it was good to put in the bookstore.

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,
Beth

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Dear Carmen,

After recently attending the Pro-life dinner in Regina, my family bought your book, Arms of Love.  I began as soon as I got home.  A couple days later, I'd finished, and I must say, I've yet to read a book like it.

It was wonderful to read a book like this.  The heroine, Joanie, was a devout Catholic, the concept of "courting" was wonderfully portrayed, and the chastity of Brandon and Joanie was evident throughout their relationship.  Before hearing your talk and reading your book, the idea of "courting" was completely unknown to me and the friend who came with me... Dating, in this new light, seems very much to be an invention of our pleasure-oriented culture. However, it was an extremely good read, and may God continue to bless you in your work!

Garrett (17)
Emerald Park, Saskatchewan

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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 their relationship steered away from the physical things.  Lately I've realized that even a simple kiss can indeed take away from a relationship, even if it doesn't lead to more physically.  Instead of talking and really getting to know all the ins and outs of someone, it is so easy to just end up kissing them and letting the time slip by that way doing just that.  And often, as you pointed out little things do lead to more.  I think this is one area that really needs prayer, because when you are in love with someone not kissing them would be so hard.  Every little smile makes you want to kiss them.  My boyfriend is away for the year, and though we have remained virgins, the physical aspects of our relationship seemed to be taking away from things before he left.  I now have the opportunity to start afresh when he comes home, and I think I would like to save our kisses until we get married.  But, please pray for me . . . as I know this will not be easy.

- 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 ;)

The only negative thing I could really say about the book is that it was a little too perfect.  While I know that everything is possible with Christ in our lives, the book was almost "utopic" . . . Brandon himself being converted was amazing, and while I found myself so glad as all the others found Jesus as well, I felt that this book was filled with absolutely the best case scenarios.  But I am a sucker for happy endings . . . and all in all I really loved the book!

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,
Rose

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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)
Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

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Dear Carmen,

I bought two of your novels, one for myself and one for a friend
who was courting.  My friend is now married and I never got around to
sending her the book because I knew she was so busy taking classes and
working she wouldn't have had time to read. 

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
have the desire to read it . . . or maybe he'll be a priest.

Delighted Mom

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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,
Jennifer (19 years old)

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!

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Hi Carmen!

Thanks for your note!  I finished your book yesterday and am still reveling in the aftermath of reading a good story. :)  I congratulate you on a job well done!  I'm sure you hear this from other people, but it felt like my story.  When you described "Joanie", it was almost as if you were describing me.  We were so similar; probably due to the fact that homeschooling and large families are such a big factor. :)  Also, I had a "Brandon" in my life not too long ago.  He was a Catholic version, but again, very similar personality.  Unfortunately, it wasn't God's will that we write a love story together.  But it was beautiful to read how Joanie and Brandon's friendship transformed into such an incredible godly relationship.  It's given me new hope for myself and future husband! :)  It was fabulous; I immediately loaned it to my mom to read.  She was excited about the the storyline and was sure she would be able to finish it tonight.

Blessings to you and your family!  Stay strong for Jesus and Mary!

Heather

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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

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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 

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Hello Carmen:
I just finish reading your novel "Arms of Love" and I would like to own this book one day.  I'm 49 years old, divorced and starting over again.  This book has given me hope that my next relationship will be built on these values from your book.  My life has been an emotional roller coaster ride with my ex, and trying to hand my life over to God.  This book has added so much to my life.  Thank-you.

Debbie

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Dear Carmen,

Thank you so much for taking such time to respond to my question.
The way the Holy Spirit leads you is so inspiring!

Thank you for reiterating prayer time, patience and especially time in adoration. Those were things that we need to hear.

I will definitely keep you, your family and your wonderful ministry in my prayers.

Thanks again for everything.

May God Bless you and the fire He has lit in your heart to spread His purity.


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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

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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,
Charise

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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)

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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,
Ewelina Krowicka

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I bought a copy of Arm's of Love at a Mark Mallett concert last year
and I am very interested in buying several more copies to give to my friends.

I really enjoyed your book and gave the copy I had to my 13 year
old sister for Christmas.  I think it is a wonderful evangelism tool for
young Catholics (or anyone) who might not be interested in reading
non-fiction books that teach about purity and the Theology of the Body. 
Also, because I grew up in a homeschool family, so much of the story
reminded me of home and my family.

Thank you so much for writing such a treasure of a book that will help lead
young people closer to Christ and the Church.

Kirsten

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Loved the book.  Great Love Story.  Teaches about our Wonderful Catholic Faith.  Everyone needs a copy of this book.  I am emailing everyone I know to get it and read it.  A movie needs to be made of this book "PRONTO".

God Bless,
Sandy

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Dear Carmen,
I just finished your book.  It was truly inspiring!  I am 37 and I wish that my courtship could have gone so well!  Anyhow, I am telling all of my nieces and friends to read your book.  I am on the Youth Ministry team at my church and I am going to promote this book 100%!  Have you written any other novels?

God bless.
In Christ Nancy

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Dear Carmen,
Just a short note to let you know how much we enjoyed your book. We are a family of nine children ages 20 months to 15 years and also have homeschooled at the earlier stages.  Our oldest daughter has read this book and is passing it along to two of her Protestant schoolmates.  It should be interesting to see what response she receives, although I am certain it will be positive.  Thank you for the gift of your writing and may God continue to Bless your family.

In Jesus,
Paul, Lois and family.

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Just like many of the other reviews I have read, I also finished this book
in one weekend.  It was so inspiring to read a love story that didn't
involve sex.  I really appreciated how the characters turned to prayer to
help avoid temptation -- a helpful reminder to myself. Thanks for writing
such a wonderful book -- I look forward to more books that reveal the
teachings of the Catholic Church on such a personable level.

God Bless,
Sharon, mother of four

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          I am twelve years old and I decided to read your book when I saw my friend reading it.  She said that it was amazing and that she cried at the end and on and on, that I decided to read your book.  It has changed my out-look on life and faith completely!  I am wondering if this is based on some kind of a true story?  I think your book is amazing and I found that I could not put it down for one second!  For me finding a book that is that good is very hard.  So I guess what I'm trying to say is that your book has inspired me and it helped me know that seeing is not believing, believing is seeing!  It also showed me that there is hope in finding love and that people can change!  Your book is the best I have ever read.  Thank-you!

Sincerely,
Lauren (12 years old from Prince Albert, Saskatchewan)

A Response from Carmen:

Dear Lauren,

          Thank you so much for the beautiful and encouraging email that you sent to me!  It is because of the enthusiasm of young people like you that I feel encouraged to continue this ministry of promoting purity and writing Catholic novels that inspire faith.

          I am so glad to hear that you enjoyed "Arms of Love" that much!  It really is a special story to me, too -- but no, it is not based on any true story, per se!  It is a work of fiction, based in part on a dream that I had one night.  I really felt that God was calling me to write it out into a story promoting courtship.  I had no idea what an affect that decision would have on so many people!  I have seen the Holy Spirit work through this simple
novel to touch a great many lives and draw people closer to Jesus.

          It sounds like you are one of those people. I am happy for you. Not only because you were so inspired, but because it shows that the Holy Spirit is really at work in your life and that you are open to the work of the Holy Spirit! Praise God!

Blessings -- In His Most Holy Name,
Carmen

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Dear Carmen,
          I agree with you that fiction is a great way to evangelize.  I could not put the book down and wept many tears.  How I wish I had been challenged to Christian courtship. When I hear of reports of twelve and thirteen year old children (and what they are doing), I shudder. God can work powerfully through you to bring the truth to young people.  I applaud you for your work and shall pray for the success of your ministry.

Peace.
Tom Roach

 

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Hello Carmen,

          It was so inspiring to get an email from you. You have been in my prayers ever since I met you and I think about you and your book a lot. It has changed me so much, it's unbelievable.
         When I read your book, I cried. I cried for over an hour because I was so touched and so happy. Nothing has ever had that big of an impact on me. Before I read your book I was someone I didn't like. I lied, I cheated, I did stuff that I am really not proud of.  But at the time when all of these things that I did were going on, I didn't see all of the people I was letting down, including myself and God.
          After reading your book it changed me and I realized what I was doing with my life. I was going no where and making myself and others miserable. Even though at times I was getting pleasure I ended up hurting myself and others.
          I don't know what to do to repay you, you changed my life so much, and made it incredibly better.  Thank you so much.  You brought Christ into my life and that's the biggest gift you could give someone. 
          God Bless!  I will continue to hold you in my prayers.

In Christ,
Asja

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Dear Carmen,
          Thank you for writing such a wonderful book. I just received it from my parents for Christmas, and I couldn't put it down -- just finished this morning (December 26th).
          I love that Joanie is home-schooled; so am I. I am the oldest of 5 children, and sometimes I feel like there is a lot in common between my family and her family. Like the chapter where they are all mad at each other -- I feel like you could be describing a day that happens once in a while at our house!
          Earlier this year, my parents told me and my sisters that we would be using the courting 'method'.  Although I didn't like the idea at first, my parents have told me more about it, and I don't feel at all the way I did when they first told me.  Reading Arms of Love made me sure that courting is the right thing to do, and will be wonderful for me and my family.
          Thank you so much for writing this wonderful book. Ever thought of writing a sequel?

Nicole
(13 years old, from Winnipeg)

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Carmen,
             First of all, I'd like to thank you for writing such an inspiring novel for young people. I received your book as an 18th birthday present from Mark and Lea Mallett.  And I enjoyed it incredibly! It so happened that I was watching 100 Huntley Street one day and saw a young couple that
didn't even kiss until they were married.  This seemed a little too extreme for me until I read your book.  It all makes wonderful sense now and I'm glad I am still able to put it into practice in my own life.  I think God has blessed you with an incredible gift and you definitely put it to use.

Mykaela (18 years old)
Vegreville, AB

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Dear Mrs. Marcoux,
          Hello, my name is Heather.  I was given a copy of your book, Arms of Love, as a birthday gift, but I could never have imagined what a gift it would truly be. 
          When I first started the book, I will admit, I was quite cynical.  Joanie was described as this devout Christian, with all these strong convictions that made me feel inadequate with regards to my faith.  I found myself, despite my Catholic background, unable to relate to Joanie, and I became discouraged.  I couldn't imagine what my best friend, giver of the book, saw in this novel.  Nevertheless, I continued to read on. 
          Then I came to the part when Brandon is introduced to Christ . . . and I came to realize the power of your book, and also more importantly, the power of Jesus.  Sitting on the bus, for the first time, I truly felt the power of the Trinity.  When Brandon met Jesus, it was like a reintroduction for me. 
          I have always tried to live my life as a good Christian, but often I feel like I am living a lie . . . like when I pray I am talking to my bedroom ceiling.  So although I couldn't relate to Joanie who was already comfortable in her faith, I felt connected to Brandon and his struggle to live a life with Christ; and it turned out to be an absolutely wonderful book. 
          My plans for saving sex for marriage were reconfirmed by reading the book, and I am confident that God will put the right man for the job in my life when the timing is right.  Until that time comes, I will continue to work at developing a strong, personal relationship with Jesus.  I know it will not be easy, but I am ready to seriously try.  So thanks for the great book!  God Bless,

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:

Dear Heather,
            Thank you so much for this awesome email. I will be posting it to my website as soon as I get a chance. You are not the first person to have had that response
skeptical at first and then . . . changed!  I really believe that is the power of the Holy Spirit at work!

            It was a decision on my part to allow Joanie to be so strong in her faith because, I believe that there are truly people out there like that
I know some!  But also, because it gives a role model for young people that they are so sorely in need of.  Society certainly doesn't make heroes out of faithful Christians! Though sometimes readers are taken aback by her faithfulness at first, they usually come around to that point of desiring for themselves what Joanie has . . . Jesus as her number one, a life of grace, trust that God had a perfect plan for her life and the determination to find and live that plan! All that is available to each one of us when we make Jesus our number one!

            Also, I appreciated your noticing my "Saskwanese"!  I put the term "bunnyhug" into my novel on purpose!!!  I knew it was a uniquely Saskatchewan term, having traveled somewhat and meeting blank stares by those who were not from Saskatchewan when I would use the term!  I felt that using such a uniquely colloquial term would really show off the "grass" roots (prairie authenticity) of my writing!  Plus, it gives people like you a chance to prove to your friends that the term is really used! :-)

            Sorry, it took me a while to respond to your email. I do so thank you for the time you took to provide feedback to me. I ask that you would pray for me, my family and this ministry. It is the encouraging words of people like you
seeing how Arms of Love can truly touch people's lives which keeps me going in this work!

Blessings,
In His Most Holy Name,
Carmen

P.S. I remember signing the copy of the book for you. I recognized your name right away on your e-mail.

A reply from Heather:

Dear Carmen,
           You would not believe the impact your book had on me and they way I see my life now.  For the first time in my life, when I pray, I feel a response and I can see the Holy Spirit working in my life and I credit the new change to your book.   What you said about the "skeptical, then changed perspective" holds exactly true for me, and I honestly do desire to be more like Joanie. 
            I think you have an amazing gift, and I will pray that your are able to continue touching and changing people's lives through this book.  It is fantastic! 

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Hi Carmen,
          I have just completed reading your book, 'Arms of Love' and truly enjoyed it.  Once started, I couldn't put it down, it was a very interesting book as well as an easy read!!
          My name is Kathy, I have been married to Joe for 22 years and in that time have born 8 beautiful children (6 girls and 2 boys), 3 of them have already left home.  They range in age from 4 to 21 years.
          I would love for the concept of 'courting' to come back into use!  My second oldest daughter is the only one that is dating and she told her boyfriend (I think on the first date even) that she is saving herself for her husband!  They are still dating after 2 years!
          Do you have any other books out?  I found that my own faith (Roman Catholic) has been strengthened through reading your book!
          Keep up the great work!

Kathy
(Mother of eight, Saskatchewan)

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!!!  

******************************************************************
Carmen,

What a blessing your book is to the world!!  I "borrowed" my mom's copy
and could not stop reading it.  The struggle you gave Joanie and Brandon
is so true for many couples in this day and age.  This book should be
read by couples considering courtship and marriage not because it is a
step by step guide but because you present the truth about courtship:
the struggles, the importance of having God at the center, and the
rewards. Your book has caused me to be committed to the idea of
courtship simply because I am worth that.

Sincerely,
Lauren (25 years old, from Saskatoon
)

******************************************************************
          I thought I would write to you a few comments about your wonderful book.  I truly enjoyed reading it.  My parents set up courtship for my husband and I when I was 18.  Unfortunately we didn't follow the rules and stole away many times.  Of course when you're alone and Christ isn't the focus of you being together things happened. 
          We married two years later and are very happily married, but there isn't a day goes by that I don't wish we would have done things  differently.   Hopefully I have equipped my children in the faith that they will be stronger when their time comes. 
          I hope you keep writing inspiring books so more people can see with Christ all things are possible. 
          Thank-you once again.  God bless you and your family.

Leslie

******************************************************************
Dear Carmen
          First of all I would like to thank you very much for writing Arms of Love. It has changed my life for the better and I'm sure it has to others as well. 
          I have read many books that made me think lots, but this one in particular was different.  Before I started reading the book I felt like I really wanted and "needed" to have a boyfriend, but after completing Arms of Love, I know that for the time being Jesus is the only man I want and need in my life.
          I have always promised myself and others that I was going to save myself till marriage, and I thought I could do it, but after reading this book I KNOW I can do it.  I would even love to be given the strength from God to be able to be loved by such a beautiful Catholic that would not tempt me to kiss before my wedding day ... even though that kiss has already been done, I would like to start all over somewhat like Brandon. 
          I felt like I knew the characters really well and they were a big inspiration to me.  I could relate to lots of things they said and felt, but other things I hope I'm blessed to feel in the future. 
          I'm not a very fast reader normally, but this book I read within 3 days. I just finished the book today, and I'm going to a weekend retreat tonight, and I will be praying so hard that I find a man one day who respects me as Brandon does Joanie. 
          Thank you very much for writing this inspiring novel that has made me realize the goodness, and the true love in life.  Sometime in the future I hope you plan on writing Arms of Love 2.

Niki, St.Nicholas PEI
(18 years old)

******************************************************************
Dear Mrs. Marcoux,

         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.  
          I also read one of your source books, I Kissed Dating Goodbye, and totally agree with all of its concepts.  I even told my boyfriend that we should stop dating and become better friends before we pursue a romantic relationship because the timing of the whole situation was not right.  Neither of us are ready to get married so we should embrace our single years as time to develop ourselves and our relationship with Jesus. 
          Thank you for your time, but most of all, thank you for writing such a inspirational book.  Take care and God Bless.

Christine
(Saskatchewan)

******************************************************************
Dear Mrs. Marcoux,

 
          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
God bless
Lisa  (26 years old)

******************************************************************

Dear Carmen,

          I just finished reading your amazing book, Arms of Love, today. It was by far the most amazing and inspirational book I've ever read!
          Right before Joanie and Brandon's wedding ... I almost stopped reading the book because I didn't want to end it. Even though these two amazing characters aren't real ... I still look up to them as role models.
          I know a few other people that are reading this book and enjoying just as much as I enjoyed it. I live in a community with many 'On fire for Jesus' youth, and I assure you I will promote your book to many.  We also have a youth team that puts on retreats for young people, and at every retreat I will also recommend this book and give them the website and address where they can order this book.
          I don't know if you're making a sequel to this book ... but I would absolutely love that!!  I'd be sooo anxious to find out what Brandon and Joanie's kids and family life turned out to be like!! 
          I'm planning on buying another W.W.J.D bracelet, which I'm sure you've heard of ... but instead of using "What would Jesus do?" ... I'll be using "What would Joanie do"!! With still keeping Jesus in mind!
          I feel now that I've lost all my friends since I've finished this book! I feel like I've known everyone in that book for years!!
          Thank you so much for going through and making this book ... in reading this book, I've decided that I'm going to wait until I'm older to date, seeing as I'm only fifteen now, and I think courtship is definitely the way to go.  And I'll be promoting it to all the kids at youth group as well!
          I could write a hundred pages on all the things that your book has done for me, and since this book has made such an impact on my life, I will commit to praying one decade of the rosary everyday for you and your family for a year.
          I hope and pray that God will bless your family abundantly and that you will be inspired ! to write Arms of Love 2!!

Yours truly,
Catherine
(15 years old, St. John, New Brunswick)

******************************************************************
Dear Carmen,

          I just finished reading your book, Arms of Love, today. It would be impossible to fully express to you in words the many different ways it has helped and inspired me in my life. It has been a channel of God's grace for me in that He used it to show me the bare truth about forgiveness, letting go of the past, and starting anew. God used your book to supply hope to me where despair was gaining a foothold.
         I loved this book so much and I greatly anticipate another one. I think my favorite character is John Collins. When I have a family of my own his character is the kind of father and husband I have always dreamed about being. Thank you so much Carmen for writing this book. You and your family will be in my prayers.

+ Yours in Christ,
Mark (24 years old)

******************************************************************
          I just finished reading you're novel "Arms of Love" and it was the most inspirational novel I have ever read.  I really felt God talking to me
through it in many ways, answering questions I didn't even know I had.  I
found that this novel helped me lay down boundaries for when I begin
dating.  This novel opened my eyes to the power prayer can have on
somebody.  Thank you for writing such a powerful book!

God Bless
Michelle

******************************************************************

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 
Edinburgh, U.K

******************************************************************

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,
Shelley


******************************************************************

Dear Mrs. Marcoux,

           I completed your book last night. I loved it! My favorite chapter is the one that every one was mad at each other. You should almost make a second book about Joanie's and Brandon's kids. As I already pointed out the book was really enjoyable and the characters felt very real to me.

                                      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)
(Saskatoon, SK.)

******************************************************************

          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
 (Saskatchewan)

******************************************************************
Feedback from a married couple (parents of three from Saskatoon):
From Annette:


         
You just let it all hang out.  You are so honest about what your goal is in regards to chastity.  You do not apologize for being Catholic but proudly carry it as your divine inheritance!  Way to go, girl!
          I got so “into” the book that I forgot that I know the person who wrote it!
          I found some of the plot predictable.  It is basically a retelling of the ordinary.  Then, I realized that our lives are made up of very commonplace events.  If the book were filled with extraordinary characters and events, it would be beyond the grasp of the common reader.  And therefore, if the reader can relate to the characters in their “plain” life, they will more likely imitate such honorable courtship, trusting that it is possible for them too.  You provide a good model or framework for couples to practice honorable courtship.  In “Arms of Love”, the ordinary becomes extraordinary by God’s grace.
          I found myself waiting for Brandon and Joanie to fail (in terms of purity) but they didn’t.  I could not believe it.  Then, I started to question if this was realistic.  Just because we did not wait until our wedding day for our first kiss does not necessarily mean it isn’t realistic or attainable.  I remember reading the same about Elizabeth Elliott in “Passion and Purity” and Kevin told me that he knows of another couple who did just that.  OK, maybe it is humanly possible!  I remember a speaker coming to a Catholic campus event talking about “how far is too far?”  I could understand how French kissing and fondling were too far, but just a kiss?  So, we thought we would try this principle in our marriage.  Using NFP, we sometimes find the times of abstinence almost unbearable.  So, during this time of “chastity” within marriage, we only kissed on the cheek.  Wow, I couldn’t believe it!  It works!  It’s amazing the power and passion that are released from just a simple kiss.  This simple act of intimacy leaves you hungry for more.  In order to be successful in chastity, physical affection needs to be nipped in the bud.          
         So, now, we are probably one in many couples that wish we had practiced this in our courtship.  I believe if we had not struggled so much with purity in our courtship, we would not struggle so much with abstinence in our marriage.  A marriage is not sealed until it is consummated.  This shows that God created sex to be holy and pure.  (This always reminds me of Scott Hahn saying that sex is not good.  Campbells’ soup is good.  Sex is not great.  Frosted Flakes, now those are grrrreat.  Sex is holy.)  Learning to wait until marriage builds a foundation in a relationship that will be able to stand firm in a culture of infidelity.  If you do not have self-control before marriage, who is to say you will have self-control with a beautiful/handsome co-worker you are not married to?  If you practice contraception, there are no consequences to your actions so the risks involved in unfaithfulness are decreased.  No wonder, there is a higher divorce rate among those who contracept and an extremely low rate for those who practice NFP.  If practicing NFP will strengthen our marriage, why would I consider the alternative just to become a divorce statistic?

From Kevin:

          This is a fantastic novel about radical conversion, honorable courtship, and holy marriage.  I was challenged & encouraged by the way this story was written.  It is packed full of prayer, truth, and wonderful practical examples of how to live a holy marriage and have a holy family life.  The very fact that Brandon & Joanie decided to wait until their wedding day to kiss was awesome!  Thank you for writing this book and for being so straightforward in the way that you wrote it.  I liked the way that Brandon and Joanie’s thought and prayer life was exposed in this book.  I am refreshed & inspired by the whole story.  There is one conversion after another… Kind of like a chain reaction.  The characters truly did come alive for me.  It is also a wonderful tool for evangelizing and calling everyone to a greater holiness and respect for Holy Matrimony.  Thank you for dealing with the issues of our day:  STD’s, contraception, abortion, NFP, divorce/annulment/remarriage and the extreme dangers of getting too physical too quickly.  You inspire me to share my gifts and talents more too!  Thank you and God bless your marriage and family!

******************************************************************

Hi Carmen,

           I  really enjoyed your book. I could not put it down.  I read it in a week and I am not a reader.  But I guess now I am.  I learned a lot of how I would like to raise my children with the true meaning of courting.  You did a great job and I am looking foward to the next one.  I have recommended it to a lot of people.  Like you said — a great way to evangelize.
            Take care and God Bless you and your family.
            I hope you had your baby by now, what did you have?

Love, Sandra
(mother of three)
(Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan)

Reply from Carmen: 

             Well, Sandra, we had a girl on December 30th 2002:
Gemma Mary Catherine
(10 lbs 1 oz, 22 1/2 inches long and doing fine!) 
She’s a real blessing in our home!


******************************************************************

Greetings Carmen!

          I've been trying to think of how I could sum up everything I've felt and how that book was part of how God has worked in me and part of what got me to where I am now. So here it goes...
          Arms of Love is a magnificent book that reminds us of a reality that youth experience living in the secular world today. Within a captivating story, the characters live a deeply rooted Catholic faith. The reader is shown ways to incorporate a Catholic approach to everyday life challenges.  For myself, it acted as a catalyst in asking the question: "Am I living life for the glory of God?"

Kristin (twenty-year-old from Saskatchewan)

******************************************************************

          The book was AWESOME! It's been five days or so since I read the last lines, and I'm STILL thinking about the characters and the powerful imprint the book has left on my heart & spirit. That's a very good sign! In fact, it was really hard to absorb the reality in those first few days afterwards that Joanie and Brandon were not actually real people, I got so attached to them!
          Carmen, Arms of Love is a delightful, engaging, and very compelling love story. I LOVED the chapter with ". . . he chose the latter."--that was totally entertaining and entirely relate-able!!! Good thinking to include the about-face of Mark & Justine, too. It's VERY important for couples who are/have been intimate to realize that they, too, have the freedom and option to choose purity, even after having fallen. The part towards the end with Joanie coming to grips with Brandon's colored past and then their reconciliation was very poignant. I couldn't put the book down at that point--thanks to you, I was up turning pages way into the wee hours all last week! Great council from the priest, too; very wise & thorough insights into solid Catholic teachings & the Sacraments woven throughout . . . .
          What really struck me about your book (along with many other things) was how purity starts ultimately in the MIND, and our actions and choices then flow from that. To be chaste doesn't just mean to abstain--it means to be PURE in body, mind & spirit . . . and setting realistic, healthy, uncompromising boundaries (ie: absolutely NO foreplay, teasing or getting alone and putting each other in positions of serious temptation). You so eloquently expressed the wonderful fruit that comes from making the difficult and very challenging choice to be chaste, especially for a couple who are deeply, genuinely in love and committed to each other.  But the trade-off is so incredibly life-giving!!! All dating (courting) couples need to know that the sacrifices they make in the physical part of their relationship--as natural and good as the impulses feel--will only serve to deepen their friendship, respect and desire for each other should they marry. And for those couples who don't end up marrying each other--their dignity and self-respect remain intact for having chosen wisely.
          I can't help but anguish now in hindsight over how much heartache I admittedly put myself through in my dating days without knowing what I deserved and needed to strive for as a woman of God.  Aaaargh!  That's what makes me all that much more grateful for your book, and how I'm positive it will surely touch the lives of countless others in the years to come--hopefully before they make the same mistakes that I and countless other good but terribly naive Christian girls (and guys!) have made in the past . . .
          Bravo on a powerful tool to help further the Kingdom, Carmen!

(Mother of five from Alberta, Canada)

******************************************************************

Dear Carmen,

          Well, where do I begin?  First of all, thank you SO much for taking care of getting a copy out here, and signing it!  The signed copy and note meant a lot to me, thank you. What an incredible novel.  I DEVOURED the book in two days, and basically did nothing else at the time; I never wanted to put it down!!
          The story itself gives hope to those of us who are in "courting relationships."  Not only does it give my boyfriend and I a little peace of mind to know that at least someone out there has the same idea, it gave us a few new ideas to think about. It was also an amazing opportunity for me to refocus my life on Christ. Your characters truly are an inspiration and a model -- a "normal" and realistic ideal. 
          I can't thank you enough for the awesome ministry of your work. You have touched not only my life, and my boyfriend's, but also that of the friends and family around us with whom we have shared the story, and our story. (I'm working on getting parish bookstore to bring them in here, by the way :) )
          It has given a lot of people a lot to think about.  I sincerely hope that you continue to write. Thank you for being such a tool for the work of the Holy Spirit in my life. Please keep in touch!

Love and Prayers,
Jen (Charlottetown, P.E.I.)

******************************************************************

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