Reviews
I absolutely loved this book. I could relate to certain things so very well! I've had questions throughout life I wondered about that I now have answers to! If you're in a difficult season in life, or not. This book definitely helps you dig deeper into your relationship with God and guides you through it. Great life lessons and resources included, for healing, and helping others. Wonderful!
Angela Gilmore - A lifelong Christian, wife of 23 years, mother of 4 children, 2 adult and 2 middle school age twins, and momtrepreneur
To the author: thank you for putting yourself into this study, for your sincerity, your honesty, your vulnerability. I find that some people in my life do not understand the need to share my experience (as the partner of an addict or my divorce) as part of my healing process. I love the many resources shared throughout the study: outlines, books, movies, and exercises. I cannot appreciate enough the addendum concerning single mothers. This study fills a gap that desperately needs attention.
Lisa Wendt - Entrepreneur , divorced and remarried mom of 4 young men
This is an Amazing book & so comprehensive to use personally or as a group bible study setting for all ages. Shelli carefully includes ideas & biblical guidance for soo many people: children, teens, adults & especially single moms and women .. with fun & life lesson stories mixed in.
Lots of engagement steps & ways to go"deep" with your christian walk.
Carol Lawler - National Sales Director Emeritus
Overall opinion: A terrific workbook that supplies guidance from Scripture, resources, tools, exercises and MORE to find peace - TRUE PEACE!
I love that this book is easy to follow and encompasses spiritual, physical and mental growth. God's WORD is indeed living and active.... powerful. Coupled with the tools and exercises Shelli provides, our daily battles can result in growth, peace, wisdom, courage, and confidence. Thanks for a great book that is suitable for individuals, couples, groups, families and more!
Sharon Buck - National Sales Director Emeritus
The Strength you will regain through God and Inner Peace (Title of my review)
​In summary, I enjoyed this book filled with courage and hope of Shelli’s experience through her journey up a difficult mountain only realizing she could survive with what was provided by God all along. I appreciated her courage of digging deeper into what God was offering along her journey with tips on exercises, prayer, bible verse suggestions, music and resources that are provided to us through statistics on the benefits of staying faithful through the tests that life brings to us and our lives. Shelli was a woman that was willing to reach out to God as her primary strength and she encourages other women and provides tips on how other young women and women everywhere can do the same to find themselves again through the mess to get to the inner peace and miracles in their life.
Amy Hanifl - Mary Kay Director, Mother of a teen daughter
Shelli takes every piece of advice, tool, and strategy that a counselor would offer and compiles them into this workbook-style guide. It is Filled with wisdom from her and a collective group of Christians, all grounded in God’s Word. This book provides guidance for navigating life’s transitions.
As a new wife and career woman, this book helped me establish deeper roots in my faith as I embraced new seasons of life. I know it will continue to provide wisdom and encouragement as life evolves.
Kaylee Kramer - Therapy in your 20's
Your book is truly a blessing. Women carry so much in this life full of surprises. When it surely becomes too much, we must know where to turn, rest, and seek light in the darkness. Your book is a soft place to land in the middle of difficulty or as a foundational study to make it clear who we are and who our loving God is when someday we are in the middle of difficulty. Thank you, Shelli, for sharing the pure and beautiful heart for the Lord that I’ve known since we were children together at church.
Kelli Green - Professor of Special Education at Martin Luther College and special education coordinator. A single mom of three boys (men now) experienced domestic abuse, difficult divorce, parental alienation, and God’s faithful presence through it all.
Positively Reinforcing God's Love and Forgiveness
​
This book highlights how we can all heal from life's trials. One person's trauma can affect entire families, and Shelli's book offers guidance and gentle reminders to turn to God for the strength and direction needed to heal and become whole again.
​
Drawing from her own experience, Shelli demonstrates how becoming healthy can empower us to help others grow and heal. Whether it's a Women's Bible Study group, a circle of friends, or a support group setting, everyone can benefit from seeing how Shelli applied Godly principles to overcome challenges, restore health, and guide others toward spiritual and emotional healing.
Gayle Kremer - A wife and Grandmother walking with her family by faith, not fear through the valley of the shadow of death
I found the book to be very relatable, discussing several situations that I have also experienced in my life. I really enjoyed the suggested songs for each chapter and took the time to find a version on YouTube to listen to as I was reading the chapters. The questions inspire meaningful reflection and discussion with family & friends. This has been helpful in clarifying my relationships with God, family and friends.
Lynette Carpenter - An enthusiastic learner that can't wait to share new found Godly wisdom with her 4 adult sons and her husband of 31 years .
Excellent Book! for anyone that has lost their way and is struggling to find love and peace in life again.
Shelli has endured and survived a marriage that not only tested her faith but took away her self worth.
This Book is her journey through research and faith to once again find joy and purpose in life and become the strong and independent woman that she is.
Mary Pawlowski - Photographer, finds beauty in all of God's creations & His words.
Who doesn’t want to live a peaceful, quiet life? All people desire this, but most doubt it can truly be achieved, especially following traumatic life experiences. In this book, Shelli bravely shares how peace can be achieved physically, emotionally and most importantly, spiritually. With an “if I can do it, anyone can” approach, the reader connects with Shelli’s real-life and honest approach to healing and peace. An excellent tool for women’s bible studies or small groups, this also is a book for anyone seeking peace and the ability to breathe in a world filled with troubles.
Wendi Guenterberg - Staff Minister at Immanuel Lutheran Ministries in Greenville
Refreshingly honest take on obtaining peace within and with God
This book was well-written and is easily digestible, making it suitable for a wide age range. The variety of methods used to convey information (videos, text, questionnaires, etc) will be helpful to retain information and appeal to different types of learners. The contents of the book were even better than the writing style and tools within as it covered so many areas that affect us in our lives that aren’t always talked about. It makes you feel you aren’t alone in your struggles or your imperfect pasts and that a better future filled with peace-is obtainable for you too. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is struggling with their relationships with themselves, others, or God, as I truly believe the book can help start to mend what is broken.
Heather Lucas - A certified wellness coach, a work from home young Mother
{domestic goddess} committed to their Christian training.
Shelli’s personal journey with the Lord creates a spiritual atmosphere for all.
This book serves as a guide to the power of outreach through a small group setting. A guide to heart changes, not simply behavior changes.
Creates a space for candid conversations on today’s difficult topics.
With powerful prayers and scriptures the book is a spiritual glue drawing people together in the unity of the Lord.
A book about personal growth and doing Jesus with others.
The book is a compelling must read guide for
parents, teens or college students, married or premarital couple and singles helping you experience God’s presence in
Julie Porter - A spiritually wise Grandmother leading her family and supporting her OWLS, a senior citizen church group.
Although the circumstances with my own divorce were not the same as yours, the struggle with my feelings were quite similar. I found your book to be relatable in that sense. The meditation techniques and prayers you suggested definitely helped me to reconnect with God and ultimately to find forgiveness for my ex wife. Thank you for your helpful support!
Mark Schroeder - A divorced man struggling with forgiveness
When someone lives through abuse it is dizzying to find a straight path through the chaos. Shelli has done great research, and this biblically based book/workbook is wonderful resource for thinking through human elements of what abuse looks and feels like, The book provides one with a plethora of insights and many various methods of combating the effects of abuse. She shares helpful tips from mental health and calming exercises to understanding oneself and others viewpoints as they have either walked through or are currently facing abuse. Most precious is her focus where it needs to be for the reader, and that is on Christ Jesus our Savior. Through him and the forgiveness he grants, we have hope. He is our
protector and Savior! Thank you Shelli for reminding the reader of the importance of recognizing abuse and how to seek God’s help in combating it. Thank you for providing a space for journaling, praying, singing and reflecting on God’s good and gracious promises to always love and
never to leave His children, no matter their circumstances.
Susie Krenke - A bleeding heart for the hurt and abused
Whether you are a new Christian or have been in the Faith your whole life, this book has something for everyone. The detailed structure makes the book easy to follow, and with all the interactive parts sprinkled throughout, it makes you use your critical thinking skills! You can read
this book by yourself or with a group of Christians, and there would be different takeaways from both, which shows the beauty of this book. I would recommend this book to anyone who is either struggling with a certain sin or wanting more Biblical structure in their lives.
Aidan Hill - A 23-year-old single male currently who has grown up in the faith.
Reset Relationships with Repentance and a Reliance on God’s Healing
How Can I Breathe Again is a perfect companion for anyone who is healing from a broken relationship or looking for ways to strengthen an existing one. Shelli relates her own story of hurt and heartache to shine light on how God and his promises transformed her from a victim to a victor. Shelli’s book takes a walk through the Scriptures to view how God designed marriage, how sin changed that relationship and how God sustains us in the valleys of life. As a mental health counselor, I appreciate how Shelli makes the connection between physical, emotional and spiritual health and provides real suggestions to make sustainable changes for improved holistic health.
Katie Martin - Author, mental health counselor and active leader in women's ministry.
Grace-Filled Encouragement for Every Stage of Life and Love”
As a newly married woman who got married later in life, it was a joy to reflect through Shelli’s activities and prompts. They helped me re-realize the gratitude I have for my Christian spouse and celebrate God’s beautiful plan for our marriage and the decade-long journey that brought us to this point.
Shelli shares her personal story with such authenticity, offering hope and encouragement.
Shelli speaks to people in all situations — offering hope, practical strategies, and, most importantly, consistently pointing us back to Jesus and His perfect love and grace.
I was reminded to deeply appreciate the gift of my husband and our marriage as part of God’s design.
I also learned practical ways to nurture Christ-centered relationships in all areas of my life through reflection and intentional actions.
Kimberly Peterson - A faithful newlywed, wanting to live out her vows
Grounded in God's Word, Shelli Jo creatively offers inspirational solutions to life's relationship challenges and heartaches. Alongside a Biblical focus, Shelli Jo integrates breathing exercises, positive affirmations, and daily goals to foster resilience and a closer relationship with Jesus. If you have ever been, or wish to help someone who has been, a victim of abuse, or simply seeks harmony in current relationships, this book will serve as a guide for a spiritual journey towards peace, joy, and happiness.
Dr. B. Dobberstein - Pastor's wife, Doctorate in Urban Education with extensive mission field experience
This faith-based resource is a powerful mix of Bible study, personal reflection, and worship. Each chapter presents a biblical truth, followed by thoughtful questions, relevant Bible verses and suggested worship songs—making it easy to connect with the message in a meaningful way.
It’s especially helpful for those healing from abuse, but also perfect for anyone wanting to deepen their faith and apply it to everyday life. A truly impactful tool for spiritual growth and healing.
Angela Pischke - Quiet Confident Woman--Women's confidence coach
Shelli DiGiovanni bravely takes us on a journey from heartache to healing. This book is for anyone doubting God's goodness in the valleys of life, and longing to return to the mountaintop. With practical advice and prayerful wisdom, the author gently guides us back to a Father who loves us, never leaves us, and will see us through any storm. A beacon of hope for domestic violence victims and all who love them. May it bless you as much as it blessed me.
Brittany Mitchell - Shelli's support in the darkest of the valleys
This devotion serves as a true testament of how having God in our daily life can help us overcome the difficult situations we face.
Justina Muehler - A Military wife that knows difficult situations.
Very well-thought out, intentional, specific, action oriented, detailed, Christ-focused.
Margaret Lake - A wife and mother who is active with her women's church group and her family.
Shelli has hit it out of the park with this must have Study Guide! It provides people of all ages with guidance, encouragement and a will to further their Christian Experience! Thank you Shelli for sharing this awesome tool!
Sherry Beatty - Church leader
Ms. Shelli’s love of the Lord and her love for all individuals is so very evident. This book is a wonderful resource for all seeking to heal from past painful relationships and to forge and strengthen one’s bond with God. What I love about Shelli’s approach is the way in which she addresses the issues of the complete person, body, mind and soul. I am deeply touched by Shelli’s candid and genuine style. This book is so very needed in our world today.
Kris D - A dance instructor, artist and gardener who loves letting her faith light shine
I commend Shelli for her honesty and vulnerability. Her book and its accompanying videos foster a personal connection with the author. As an educator advocating for mothers, this is a valuable, practical, Bible-based resource, especially for single moms. Her sincere faith perspective enriches the guidance it offers on relationships with God and others. Very practical, the book urges readers to apply its lessons—insights like "Look at the mirror instead of the magnifying glass" will stick with readers. Written from a genuine heart, it provides useful tools for growth. Many, especially moms, will find this guide supportive and so beneficial!
Rachel Greiner - Educator & Advocate for Moms
Everybody knows that relationships are hard, but not everyone knows where to get good, Godly advice on how to work on them. Shelli has come up with a resource that is both practical and biblical that will help those who are testing the waters of relationships and those who have been thoroughly tested by them.
Dan Schmidt - brother, pastor, and friend
Where to begin! What an incredible book that can and will change the lives of so many. The TOUGH topics covered-everything from forgiveness, sex and marriage, sin, peace, to temptation, parenting, literally something for everyone, who is a Christian or non-believe. It is easy to follow and it's nice knowing ahead of time what to expect for each chapter. The videos were a great addition and it's wonderful to see Shelli in person!
Sometimes it's hard to practice going to Jesus first with all the things, and this book is filled with examples showing this. WOW!
The listing of 9 parts to each chapter is such a fabulous idea, and a favorite part of how the book is laid out. Anyone can use it. It is written in such a way that you don't need a high level of Bible knowledge to learn so much from this study.
Peace in the daily fight was my favorite chapter- I felt like you were talking to me and could relate to the anxiety that is a struggle every single day. Because you were real in this book, it made all parts of it more magical somehow.
BEST study on the market in my opinion! Thank you for writing this masterpiece.
Linda Daane - former educator, Christian Leader to her family and community
How Can I Breath Again is a deeply impactful and accessible guide to spiritual renewal, rooted in 10 powerful Biblical truths. What I loved most was how multifaceted the book is-blending scripture, journaling, and hands-on activities that encourage real-life application. It truly lives up to its goal of offering readers not just hope, but a practical way to engage with God's Word.
I walked away with tools to help me stay grounded in truth and a desire to revisit this study regularly. It's not just a one-time read-it;s a life long companion.
This book is for anyone-any age, any season- who wants to grow their relationship with the Lord.
Lily Gauthreaux - Young mom-trepeneur, an avid reader and excellent leader
How Can I Breathe Again weaves scripture, reflection, and somatic healing into a compassionate guide that addresses pain in its full complexity — emotional, spiritual, and physical. What sets this book apart is its understanding of the mind-body connection. Shelli doesn’t just acknowledge the weight of trauma — she honors it, offering practical exercises that ground healing in the physical body while guiding readers toward spiritual restoration. Through her lens, Christ’s suffering becomes a powerful anchor — not just as theological truth, but as intimate reassurance that God truly understands our deepest wounds.
Anonymous
As a Christian woman in her twenties, this book was helpful in many ways. As a single woman, it gave me a better understanding of my vocation and how I can best serve my Savior in this current role. It also gave me the resources whether that be Scripture or other Christian resources to speak to my friends about these difficult topics that are so prevalent in all our lives. Thank you, Shelli, for sharing your story and creating this powerful tool that we can share with others and further our walk with Christ.
Ana Goelzer -Single- 20 something Confident in God and herself.
At dinner my husband and I were discussing some friends who were having relationship issues. My teenage son commented that it sounds like a toxic relationship. I was very surprised at this mature comment and asked where he learned about that. He said it was from a relationships study they were doing in class and went on to give us more details. I'm so very glad my son is being taught this at school, not only learning, but absorbing it and recognizing it outside of the classroom!!
Carla Morris-Robinson - Mother of an 8th grade who studied the Toxic vs. Tools chapter in religion class.
A guide to healing woven with Biblical truths
What I liked most about this book was the way Shelli used Scripture to guide readers toward healing. The book absolutely lived up to its goal—it offered practical steps and Biblical wisdom for finding peace and purpose after pain. With the tools given in this book, I learned how to reframe past experiences through the lens of grace. This book is perfect for women in all life stages who are seeking clarity, healing, or spiritual growth in their relationships.
Tabitha Schroeder - former relationship and family therapist, Master of Science in Marriage & Family Therapy
Shelli Jo offers thoughtful, personal advice on finding peace with God and understanding where you stand in your own life. She blends research with Biblical truths to guide readers through the many paths we may encounter. Through relevant scripture, songs, and heartfelt reflections, she reminds us of the comfort found in God’s love amid real-world trials and distractions. Shelli Jo encourages us to go deeper with meaningful discussion questions, inspiring us to live as godly examples in our everyday lives.
Gretchen Asmus - 2nd grade teacher, mom to 3 girls (now adults!), and on the path to empty nesting
This book is an excellent Christian resource for anyone seeking to cultivate peace in relationships—whether in marriage, friendships, church, or work. It combines biblical wisdom with practical application, encouraging readers not just to resolve conflicts, but to become peacemakers in the image of Christ.
The study guides and accountability options were helpful to me to apply what I was reading to my everyday life. I highly recommend it!
Sara Kasper - Striving to live her faith at work and at home alongside with her husband and 2 young adult children.
Shelli's book is a blessing to those dealing with life's many challenges. I appreciate that the book includes the many means that God uses to bring us His peace--His Word, music, movement, calming breathing, supportive Christians, and resources that are faithful to God's Word.
Although I forgave the sin that led to my divorce long ago, I still struggle with the impact of that sin, so the process of forgiving continues. In chapter two Shelli wrote about forgiveness as a cure for bitterness. It is so easy to let bitterness take root but so vital to my faith to forgive. Shelli said, "It is not letting someone off the hook but handing the hook to God and trusting He will let justice be served." Thanks for helping me hand God the hook and encourage others to do the same.
I pray that Shelli's book is an encouragement to many, as it has been to me.
Janet L. - Christian, mom, mother-in-law, grandma...and divorced!
I feel that anyone and everyone should read this book. for the believer, it is a great study either for just oneself walking and growing closer to Jesus. For the curious about God, it offers hope because so many people are trying to fit the void in their lives with empty "puzzle pieces" ie money, power, food, alcohol, drugs, sex, and other people that are not eternal and fleeting and leave no real spiritual satisfaction.
​
Lastly, what I walked away with after reading "How Can I Breathe Again", when our vertical relationship with Jesus is strong, our other relationships will be so much healthier and put in perspective. We will be filled with the Holy Spirit and will have that "Christ-Confidence" which can only come from Him rather than "Self". We will enjoy Heavenly wisdom, Christ like courage, and peace that passes ALL understanding!
Julie Schundt - Health care specialist cares deeply for people and the Lord.
Such a practical & helpful guide to using God's Word to tackle each & everyday of our sanctified { new life as a Christ -follower} walk in faith. Life is full of immense challenges, where do we turn? Shelli points to the one thing that truly can make a difference-God's Word. So useful for anyone who has breath and is living in this sin filled world. Hope-Renewal-Joy.
Sue Lindwurm - Ultimate Overcomer and still overcoming Life’s hurdles with God uplifting her daily.
Shelli certainly has a gift for writing, but her niche is the ability to help someone figure out what 'to DO' about their current or enduring struggle. I love the 'workbook' approach!
"I've faced tough times, including suicidal thoughts, guilt, and a broken marriage.
Shelli Jo’s book, How Can I Breathe Again: Ten Bible Truths, would have been a helpful guide during those struggles. It’s not just a book—it’s like a lifeline. The book is set up like a workbook, blending Bible verses, relatable stories, and practical steps around one main idea: God’s peace is steady, even in disappointment, crisis, or uncertainty.
Shelli covers challenges like toxic relationships, heartbreak, and finding your purpose and offers clear steps on how to move forward and upward. Her 'mustard tree' metaphors and chapter questions encourage reflection, discussion, or action. No matter what you’re going through, this book likely has a chapter that speaks to you. It lifted my spirits with its focus on relevant Bible verses and heartfelt prayers at the end of each chapter. It also grounded me with its consistent message: whatever you’re facing, you can find peace through lasting Bible truths.
Liz Nitardy - A Business woman blessed to be past the pain, now joyful and willing to share.
Amazing! Thought provoking! Sensible! Every women should read this workbook. Or, better yet, attend a "How Can I Breathe Again" workshop. The teachings will definitely prepare younger reader/participant of spiritual gifts we have been given to be prudent in our relationships. And, also provides spiritual hope and blessings to those who have suffered trauma. Full of wisdom for all stages of life. The main reason I loved this book is that it is obvious that it was divinely inspired. And, it covers the Truths of The Word.
Sylvia Limon Martinez - Wife of 58 years, 3 adult daughters
This book is truly interactive and keeps the reader engaged from start to finish. It works wonderfully as a personal devotional, but it’s also perfect to read with a partner or even in a small group setting. Each chapter challenged me to pause, reflect, and consider my own walk of faith with the Lord.
My husband and I chose to read it together after mealtimes, and it became a meaningful devotional practice for us. We grew closer to each other and, more importantly, closer to God through the thoughtful questions and discussions it encouraged.
I also appreciated how Scripture was woven throughout—every idea the author presented was supported with clear biblical references, making it both inspiring and trustworthy.
This is an amazing resource for anyone wanting to deepen their faith and relationships, and I highly recommend it!
Abbie McKenna - A newly wed who did the study with her husband and they grew closer to God and each other.
Shelli’s book reads in such a practical way. This workbook guides us to insights. The benefits can only
be limited by the work one is willing to put into it. Shelli gives encouragement and practical
suggestions how to work in a team to promote encouragement, accountability and honest listening and sharing which leads to growth. Don’t expect this book to be a “one and done” but more of a reference
book and daily guide to new routines, thoughts and relationships. But especially, as you read and
meditate upon the well-timed verses that Ms. Shelli chooses and highlights, you will grow in the grace, mercy, peace. You will know the love and truths of your Savior that will make all of the difference in
your journey to “breathe again”.
Sarah Guenther - Leader of a Women's Prison Ministry
Shelli, thank you for sharing your story so transparently. I was able to relate to many of the situations and topics you shared.
I am excited to share this with my small group Bible study.
Nicki Hill - Christian business woman, leader of a ladies small group, participant with her husband in a small group Bible study