We've all been there....that walk into the boss's office, the phone call that changed our lives, the knock on the door that turned life into a million pieces. In I Thought I Heard the Lion's Roar Cindy Allen writes about a devastating 17 month unemployment, feeling lost, feeling defeated and how her and her husband made it through.

I loved following Cindy through her story and being able to apply her advice to things in my own life. My favorite part of the book though was the love story between her and Jim and also seeing a glimpse of how she was raised. Her family living the country life were a happy family but there was always something missing in her parents life, they moved constantly and also dabbled into many different religions including many things of the occult. After a horrific event her parents soon became Christians and Cindy later as an adult accepted Christ. Although firm in her foundation, the insecurity of moving so many times and never strongly placing down roots always stayed with her. A huge goal in her life was to settle down live in her beloved state of Michigan and not be tossed about with moving boxes.

Then it happened, in the midst of a happy marriage, grown children and ministry work she got that life changing phone call, her husband lost his job- which proceeded to take them down a long journey of unemployment. Cindy's attitude and I quote.......

"You know, its always easier to trust the Lord when you have money in your bank account and things are going well. What choice did we have anyway? Bag it now, curse God and die? NO this was the time to walk the talk"......

That good attitude that Jim and Cindy always tried to hold onto soon led to confusion and anger and then led to feelings of despair. But instead of throwing in the towel and letting the lions win, Cindy grew closer to God and walked through the storm knowing there would be a break in the clouds. Constant prayer, harrowing job searches and interviews led them to some interesting situations and travels. I had a lot of laughs and a lot of Oh No's reading about the hormonal ups and downs Cindy went through and also what her poor Jim had to endure...not only with job loss, confusion and worry but also dealing with a hormonal sensitive wife. Girls you all know how that can be, I think we've all taken a ride on the crazy train with Cindy and unleashed at those closest to us.

Lions Roar shares some very personal and dramatic events. Cindy is exquisite and loving but shes also in your face with no holding back when it comes to her core values, her belief in the one true God, Jesus Christ and has no shame holding back her thoughts or opinions. A great mix of drama, advice and humor. Trolls, chocolate and hair raising statements are no stranger to this gal. Cindy's advice is sound and firm, yet encouraging. She always leads you back to relying on God's Word no matter the storm your weathering.

For a motivational and encouraging read this will lift your spirits and brighten your hopes to the sun that will set on your horizon.

4/5, Self-help, Nonfiction Inspirational