It seems that one of the problems when doing book reviews is that there is a tendency to compare the current book to books previously written by the same author, thereby creating a bias. This is to say that a book may not be judged not on its own merit but perhaps it is rated in comparison to previous works so, in order to present a fair review, I have decided to provide two reviews for this book, “Let It Be Easy: simple actions to create an extraordinary life.”

In and of itself, this book provides ideas/thoughts that are both easy to understand and theoretically easy to apply. The reason I say “theoretically” is that, as with so many of the important lessons in life, talking about them is very simple, yet applying them on a consistent basis tends to be more challenging. Ideas like: speak the truth, keep your promises, take responsibility, and ask for what you want all seem very simple and they should be easy to incorporate into everyone’s life; however, I rather doubt this is the case for most of us. When you combine those four actions with this seven additional “ingredients” as Tolly calls them, we are given his process for creating an extraordinary life. I agree with the author’s ingredients/views and I hope to one day apply this wisdom to every situation I encounter; when that day will arrive, remains to be seen.

As for the second part of this review, if I were to compare the ideas found in this book to Tolly’s earlier book, “Guiding Yourself into a Spiritual Reality”, which I have reviewed elsewhere on this website, 

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I would say that I resonate more with the information presented in the latter. Actually, perhaps it is an unfair comparison because I would say that “Guiding Yourself into a Spiritual Reality” is one of my all-time favorite books in this genre. Bottom line, I find that “Let it be Easy” is a book that I can relate to on more of a cerebral level; whereas, “Guiding Yourself into a Spiritual Reality” provides information that explores a more complex/deeper level.

When doing book reviews there is a fine balance between providing a lengthy/thorough review and providing a short, concise review that sums up a book in a few brief statements. So in this review, rather than choose just one way, I will provide a short review as well as a long review of,  “The Honeymoon Effect.”

The short review - If you have ever had a relationship: good, bad or otherwise or if you ever intend on having a relationship, than the information in this book will be of interest to you. I quite enjoyed Bruce’s writing style and learned a great deal about myself and relationships in general.

Okay, now for the long review.

In his latest book, “The Honeymoon Effect” Bruce Lipton once again employs a relaxed style to blend experiences from his personal journey with scientific processes to explain why it is that we so frequently sabotage our relationships. This s not a ___ step book to finding love, this book is designed to make the reader aware of the internal processes, most of which are unknown to us on a conscious level, as a means of making more loving and positive connections. 

In a manner that is interesting, and often entertaining, Bruce illustrates how the body and brain behave when in different emotional states. The information is presented in a manner that can be easily understood by someone who has never taken a biology class (that would be me). There is nothing overwhelming in this section of the book and it is relatively short.

The next component of the book, and perhaps the section that contains the most crucial information, is the section on how it is that the conscious mind, full of good intentions, can be overwhelmed by the programming existing in our subconscious mind. Many people might not realize that it is the subconscious mind calling the shots 90% of the time. This means that all of our conditioned responses in relationships are often calling the shots without us even being aware of it. In other words, the captain of the love boat is only at the helm 10% of the time and the other 90% of the time the “computer” is running things. 

This is not to say that we did not have a role in our failed relationships, this is simply saying that the programming in our subconscious mind played a large part in how our relationships unfolded and how they continue to unfold. By becoming aware of our “hidden programs” we are empowered and can make the changes we need for finding relationships that are positive and life affirming.

On a final note, with Bruce being so willing to self-disclose, I believe I should do the same. I have to admit that normally I do not seek out books related to building “loving relationships.” I know that many people enjoy these books and they have benefited from reading them; however, in my experience I found that many of the books I encountered were very general and the changes they suggested only dealt with conscious-mind issues. The changes that occurred, if any, would only have a temporary benefit. Now, having read, “The Honeymoon Effect” I understand that changes made to the conscious mind, even with the best of intentions, do not overcome the programming running in the subconscious mind. In order to truly have fulfilling and nurturing relationships one must become aware of the programming behind the scenes and then re-write it to be in alignment with our greatest desires. In simple terms, if we wish to have the feelings of love and joy that we experience in the initial moments of a loving relationship, if we wish to experience this “honeymoon effect”, we need to have harmony between four minds not just two.

The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom (A Toltec Wisdom Book) - Don Miguel Ruiz
ISBN-13: 978-1878424310
The Ten Commandments, the Tao, the “Golden Rule”, and also the “Four Agreements: what do they all have in common? Well, I’m sure there are many things; however, I want to focus on something that resonates with me.  It seems to me, and I am admittedly biased, that so many of life’s great lessons are actually quite simple in their instruction, yet not always so simple in their application. Don Miguel’s book, “The Four Agreements” outlines one major idea/agreement, “Be impeccable with your word” that is supported by three other “agreements”: “Don’t make assumptions”, “Don’t take anything personally”, and “Always do your best.”   The author feels, as do I, that when a person implements these agreements consistently into their life then the quality of life will improve; however, as is so often the case, some of us are quick to agree with an idea, we say we “Know that already” and then we go back to our old ways. As with any great wisdom, applying the idea consistently into our relationships with others, and with life in general, is the true challenge. If things aren’t working for us, then perhaps we need to alter our perceptions and establish new “agreements” that better serve us and humanity. Although I enjoyed this book and the message it shares, I am a long way from consistently heading the words it contains. Bottom line: if everything in your life is working, then you don’t need this book. If, like most of us though, you are looking to find ways to make improvements, then this book is one more tool to help you do so.

Prescriptions for Living: Inspirational lessons for living a joyful, loving life - Bernie Siegel

ISBN-10: 0060929367

I like all of Bernie's books for the same reasons. Dr. Bernie Siegel is a practicing MD who realizes that healing is so much more than an application of remedies and treatments issued by a medical professional. With a great deal of wit and humbleness he discusses some of the remarkable events that he has witnessed and he shares his thoughts on how crucial the role of beliefs are in healing the physical body. To Quote Anne Landers when she reviewed “Prescriptions for Living”, "Run, don't walk, to the nearest bookstore and get this amazing book that explains how you can 'think' yourself sick or well...Every family should have a copy. It can be a Lifesaver.”--- Anne Landers

The Practice of Happiness - John Kehoe
ISBN-13: 978-0969755166

I have read, and enjoyed, several of John Kehoe's book and this one is no exception. In some of his other books like, "Mind Power into the 20th Century" and his most recent work, "Quantum Warrior" John uses a style that is quite interactive and full of great lessons that need to be put into use. In order to gain the benefits of the material in those two books, the reader needs to be quite pro-active and do the work physically.

This book, "The Practice of Happiness", is not only smaller and shorter in length, the style is also different in that it is more of a discourse - not a scientific discourse; rather, it is written from the point of view of somebody who has learned from the school of life.

John Kehoe a uses aspects of his personal life mixed in with quotes and aphorisms from many sources to share a wisdom about happiness that many know, yet so few truly practice. There are many wonderful quotes in the book, but I would like to share something from Mr. Kehoe himself, "Inner harmony and happiness are not just for ourselves: they are gifts that we give to the world. And here a great truth is revealed."

If you could use more happiness in your life, this book would be a great place to start.

Thought Vibration: the law of attraction in the thought world – William Walker Atkinson

ISBN-13: 978-1440484681

Originally published in 1908 and rejuvenated 100 years later, “Thought Vibration” is a relatively short book at less than 100 pages; however it is certainly is a concise and informative book that is well worth the read.

Many of the current “new thought”  ideals and the concepts/laws behind the “power of attraction” were shared by William Walker Atkinson and they are just as powerful now as they likely were back in the days in which they were written. The author shares concepts like: fears are realized because in essence they are expectations and we draw to us what we expect; the key to attainment is desire, confidence, and will, followed by action; that we are all unique individuals and, as such, must follow our own path and not give our power to others; and finally, and perhaps most importantly, thoughts are a real force and the key to the law of attraction.

I really enjoyed reading this book and I learned and reinforced many ideas that I believe to be universal truths. Those who are interested in the power of thought or in the law of attraction would likely find this book useful and would benefit from having a copy of it in their library.

Living with Joy: Keys to Personal Power and Spiritual Transformation - Sanaya Roman
ISBN-13: 978-1932073515

Once again Sanaya has written an incredible book that will touch the lives of all who read it. No matter what issues are impeding your ability to enjoy life to its fullest, you will definitely find that reading this book will be beneficial. Sanaya discusses finding our life's purpose, turning negatives into positives, gratitude, inner peace and a host of other topics, but ultimately they all lead to one thing: living life with more joy. If you like highlighting your books you will find that most of the pages will be fluorescent. I have read some life changing books, and this is definitely one of the best. For your sake, please buy this book.

Opening to Channel – Sanaya Roman

ISBN-13: 978-0915811052

People may shy away from this book because of the   implications associated with the word "channel." The

word "channel", as it is used here, simple means clearing the mind so as to allow the universe to give the

answers you seek. Many would understand this process as a component of meditation. Regardless of the  linguistics, this book is a must read for anybody interested in meditation or channeling. There are many “how to" books, but this is one of the few that will answer all of the questions you have on the subject. This book sets the standard.

Awareness: The Perils and Opportunities of Reality - Anthony DeMello

ISBN-13: 978-0006275190

This was the first book from the self help/new age genre that I read and I have since gone back and reread it several times. Some of the information in this book was difficult for me to accept, nonetheless, the wisdom contained on these pages will truly open your mind. At first your beliefs may take quite a beating as DeMello really challenges the readers belief systems and ideas of reality, but he does mellow out after the first few chapters (pun intended). This is a book you will want to own and you will most likely continue to learn from it every time you read it. Just to give you an idea of how much I liked this book, after reading it I immediately went out and bought a half dozen copies to give away.

 – John Kehoe

ISBN-13: 978-0973983005

The power that exists within the human mind is absolutely amazing and John Kehoe’s book is one of the world's best, evidenced by the fact that it is a number one international best-seller, when it comes to helping you tap into the vast resource we all have.

The information is easy to read and easy to apply and I believe that is the key to his book: do the exercises. It's one thing to read the information and nod in agreement, it is another to get into our "stuff" and deal with it. John provides various ways to: eliminate the negative self-talk, develop a prosperity consciousness, and influence your subconscious mind. This book is not a "hard" to read book, but as with many of the life-altering things that happen in life, there is effort and intent involved.

100 More Ways to Keep Your Soul Alive - Frederic Brussat, Mary Ann Brussat
ISBN-13: 978-0062515216
With this book being a second edition (the first one being "100 Ways to Keep Your Soul Alive), the review is the same for both, because I enjoyed both equally.

A neat little book that starts with a very brief suggestion, followed by a quote and then an activity to help the reader apply the ideals of the message in their life. For example, the first message is, “Live in the moment.” followed by a quote about living in the moment and then the suggestion that the reader do one activity today without thought of the past experience or future consequence. Some readers may find the ideas overly simplistic, but I think the idea is to provide an easy to understand message with a simple action plan.

As with so many of the important things in life, they are simple in concept, yet, for many of us, they are harder to apply consistently. This is a small book that can easily be carried in a coat pocket, in a purse, or left in the car to provide a moment of introspection whenever needed.

100 Ways to Keep Your Soul Alive: Living Deeply and Fully Every Day Paperback - Frederic Brussat, Mary Ann Brussat
ISBN-13: 978-006251
A neat little book that starts with a very brief suggestion, followed by a quote and then an activity to help the reader apply the ideals of the message in their life. For example, the first message is, “Live in the moment.” followed by a quote about living in the moment and then the suggestion that the reader do one activity today without thought of the past experience or future consequence. Some readers may find the ideas overly simplistic, but I think the idea is to provide an easy to understand message with a simple action plan.

As with so many of the important things in life, they are simple in concept, yet, for many of us, they are harder to apply consistently. This is a small book that can easily be carried in a coat pocket, in a purse, or left in the car to provide a moment of introspection whenever needed.

Weight Loss for the Mind - Stuart Wilde

ISBN-13: 978-1561705375

I guess it should come as no surprise that I have a real affinity for small books (considering the size of my first three books) and Stuart Wilde’s book, “Weight Loss for the Mind”, is no exception. This book conveniently, and easily, fits into a purse or decent sized pocket and, indeed, it is precisely because of this fact that I was able to carry it around and read it whenever I had some time to spare.

The book itself consists of nine chapters, with the key point displayed as a “Realization” at the end of each chapter.

Stuart starts out by saying that our perceptions are based on our beliefs and that we get upset when we are emotionally attached to an outcome that doesn't manifest in reality. Additional insights include the pointlessness of guilt, overcoming fear, healing confusion and how, in many cases, the ego plays a big role in many of the obstacles in life.

Stuart cuts straight to the point with his ideas, but he also had a wonderful wit that comes through in this book (after visiting his website I came to realize he was quite the comedian). Although Mr. Wilde has now gone onto the Great Unknown, I am grateful that he shared his thoughts and I look forward to reading & reviewing more of his books in the next few months.