In this episode of Bad Words, Janice (@godhasnotgiven) Melanie (@climbholamel), and guest host Lo (@lmoshwhipp) dive deep into chapters 13-15 of Francine Rivers' 'Redeeming Love.' The hosts discuss the troubling portrayals of relationships, victim-blaming, and the problematic theology underlying the narrative. They analyze the characters' actions, particularly the disturbing dynamics between Angel and Michael, as well as Paul’s reprehensible behavior. The conversation also touches on how the book reflects evangelical views on love and trauma, highlighting the harmful messages and poor writing that make 'Redeeming Love' a godawful read.

00:00 Introduction and Recap

01:28 Hosts Introduction

03:35 Discussion on 'Redeeming Love'

07:20 Analyzing Characters and Themes

09:29 Paul's Return and Reactions

11:23 Angel's Trauma and Responses

41:54 Curiosity About the Author's Intentions

43:22 Analyzing Angel's Desire for Freedom

44:03 Trauma Responses and Evangelical Love

52:31 Paul's Assault and Its Implications

01:04:29 Angel's Return to Paradise

01:15:14 The Works: A Romance Novel Critique

01:15:23 Goodreads Reviews and Censorship

01:16:59 The Big Rescue: A Violent Escape

01:19:14 Michael's Heroic Violence

01:24:26 Angel's Trauma and Fear

01:26:12 Paul's Betrayal and Michael's Assumptions

01:28:12 Michael's Misguided Love

01:34:32 Evangelical Love Bombing

01:39:18 Francine Rivers' Writing and Critique

01:51:41 Final Thoughts and Reflections