Review: No More Christian Nice Guy

No More Christian Nice Guy book cover on blue background

I've been wanting to share a review of No More Christian Nice Guy: When Being Nice–Instead of Good–Hurts Men, Women, and Children by Paul Coughlin for quite some time after having shared a review of the female counterpart earlier this year. However, I thought it would make the most sense for my husband to share his thoughts rather than me, so I'm excited that he took the time to write out what he calls "a book report" 😄

Book Synopsis

Recovering nice guy Paul Coughlin points the way for all men who yearn to live a life of boldness and conviction--like Jesus. Using anecdotes from his own life, powerful and poignant stories, and vivid examples from our culture, Coughlin shows how men can say no to the "nice guy" syndrome and yes to a life of purpose, passion, and vitality.

In this revised and expanded edition, Coughlin adds vital insights on the changes he's seen in churches and the greater culture in the decade since No More Christian Nice Guy was first published. This radical and hopeful message elevates the true biblical model of manhood and now includes testimonials from men and women whose lives have been altered by this book. Coughlin also looks at the shifting expectations men face in relationships and in the workplace, and how younger Christians, in particular, are subject to harmful views about masculinity.

Part inspiration, part instruction, and part manifesto, this book gives men the courage to move from passivity to assertiveness.

Source: Amazon

Book Thoughts (from Mr. Christian Shelves)

I really appreciated how No More Christian Nice Guy addressed the issue of stifled masculinity within the church and how taking the principles of humility and meekness too far, combined with not dealing with past childhood trauma, can lead to men that are conflict averse and passive. The author pointed to how being a Christian Nice Guy (CNG) can bring challenges to dating or marriage, as well as the workplace, as being nice to avoid conflict won't actually prevent or solve issues—something I can see from my own past.

As Coughlin points out, "…Christian Nice Guys believe, This world is a dangerous place...and the key to making through this dangerous planet is to keep my head down to avoid attention and [shudder] conflict" (p. 112). However, the book doesn't simply define this issue or point to all the potential causes; it calls men to be assertive (as opposed to passive and/or aggressive), to speak truth, to protect their family (even physically, if called for) and ultimately, to be like Jesus in a fuller sense. Men are reminded that we "are the salt—not the sugar—of the world. Season boldly, brothers" (p. 258).

Book Summary

Format of book: 📖
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Recommendation: 👍

Comments

Christian Book Review Programs

Over time, I've been on the hunt for Christian book review programs that readers can join. As a result, I've been able to compile the following list which may be of interest if you are seeking review copies of Christian books. This list mostly applies to print and ebooks, although some publishers offer audiobooks as well. If further information is available for any of the publishers below (or any missing publishers), please let me know as I am happy to update this list—thank you! Please note that you can also search for these publishers on NetGalley and other review sites in case there are no review programs available or you don't qualify for one 😊 List last updated: June 4, 2026 Christian Publishers 10ofThose Availability: US, Canada, and UK residents Format: Only books published by 10ofThose qualify for review requests so as to avoid impeding with other Christian book review programs Genre: Christian non-fiction, children's books Email for availability and eligibilit...

Review: Virtue of the Most High

I'm grateful that I've discovered such beautiful Christian poetry as a result of meeting talented poets online. Virtue of the Most High by Shay McNally is one such collection that I look forward to revisiting again based on how much it brought me to a place of stillness and peace. Many thanks to the author for providing a complimentary copy of this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own. Book Synopsis Virtue of the Most High is a collection of free verse, confessional Christian poetry drawn from real experience and real faith. The poems move through family history, breaking harmful patterns, grief, depression, healing, love, marriage, calling, friendship, repentance, spiritual warfare, prayer, forgiveness, and the long path of discipleship formed by the Spirit through the Word. Christ stands at the center as the Lord who speaks through Scripture and stays with His people. The writing holds to this truth and enters both the struggle and the grace with candid h...

Review: Zenith of Tea - Apron Strings Tea Tales

Since Asian Heritage Month is the Canadian name for the month-long celebration in May, it makes sense to feature a book set in Canada. Zenith of Tea by R.F. Whong (pen name for Ruth Wuwong ) is a standalone novella in the Apron Strings Tea Tales series and it pretty much encapsulates who I am as a Chinese-Canadian Christian, featuring main characters who share the same identity and background. I am thrilled to have discovered it and it makes me very grateful that Christian Bookstagram introduced this book to me. Inspired by The Nightingale , this story relays a dark moment in Canadian history while offering hope through Christ. Book Synopsis A cookbook, a glimmer of fairy tale, a spoonful of history, and a teacup of hope. In the early 1920s, accomplished martial artist Wang Mijen is haunted by her past and the red birthmark that she believes prompted her family to abandon her at six. She survives by robbing ancient tombs and living in a cave concealed from the soldiers. When she sav...