Friends, Partners, and Lovers: What It Takes to Make Your Marriage Work

Great marriages don't just happen--they're made, intentionally, day by day. Yet most of us enter the covenant of marriage thinking that the role of spouse will be easy, natural, effortless. Rarely is this true. In fact, the number one cause of divorce isn't adultery or finances or disagreements. It's apathy--a lack of intentional emotional, physical, and mental investment in the relationship.
With engaging stories and clear, simple language, pastor Kevin A. Thompson explains the three critical roles of a spouse--friend, partner, and lover--and shows how to nurture those roles in order to keep a marriage healthy and strong. Using solid biblical principles, he helps couples understand how to grow their friendship, be a supportive partner through the good times and the bad, and develop a healthy and satisfying sex life.
Friends, Partners, and Lovers offers essential insight for couples at any stage of marriage but will be especially helpful to those who are struggling and those who are engaged or newly married and looking to start their marriage on strong footing.

My thoughts: I've read a lot of marriage books over the years, especially when my husband and I were preparing for our wedding day. After a while, a lot of them start to sound the same, but I was thrilled to find out that this one is different! I feel like Kevin has more to say with focusing on being not just lovers, but also friends and partners. I appreciated the stories that he shares to drive points home.
This is an excellent book on marriage, whether to read yourself or give as a gift!
I received this book from Revell in exchange for my honest review.

Making Marriage Beautiful

What makes a marriage beautiful? Honesty? Compatibility? Physical and emotional intimacy? All of these are important, but there’s one component that determines the quality and longevity of a marriage more than anything else: a willingness to grow.

Because a wedding joins together two imperfect people, all couples experience disappointment, conflict, and pain. How husbands and wives respond to these challenges determines the kind of people they will become and the kind of marriage they will have.

Making Marriage Beautiful reveals how the pursuit of Christ results in profound transformation for both the individual and the marriage. Rather than offering clichés and formulas, Greco relies on candor, humor, and real life stories to bring encouragement and wisdom to all couples, regardless of whether they have been married four weeks or forty years.

My thoughts: I have read a fair number of books on marriage over the years (especially during pre-marital counseling!), but this one wound up being refreshingly different. I really appreciated how Dorothy and Christopher Greco open up about their marriage to help others. I had to laugh at their example of how differences come out in the early days, sometimes even just the little things like how our families have entertained.;) In our marriage, it was how different our families approach holiday meals.:)
This is a wonderful book for couples in all walks of life! There are things in it to help new couples to avoid pitfalls and there is plenty to help seasoned couples to examine ruts, addictions, and the need for forgiveness.
I received this book from Litfuse in exchange for my honest review.

Men Who Love Fierce Women

“Five years into ‘wedded bliss,’ I confessed to Kim that I no longer loved her. We were stuck in a destructive relationship pattern we now refer to as the ‘fierce woman/fearful man’ cycle, and I had lost all hope for a peaceful marriage…” — LeRoy Wagner

What if I’m laid-back and my wife is… not?
How can I lead when I feel emasculated?
I’m not sure I love my wife anymore. What happened?

If you find yourself asking questions like these, LeRoy can relate. In Men Who Love Fierce Women, he is gut-honest about his failures and frustrations as a husband, the realizations that saved his marriage,* and the requirements God places on every husband, laid-back or not. With their insights combined, Kim and LeRoy equip men to rise up, handle conflict, love their wife, and lead their marriage, regardless of who has the stronger personality.

Includes reflection questions at the end of every chapter, plus an appendix for addressing conflict.

*Kim and LeRoy’s interview on Focus on the Family, in which they discuss their marriage and Kim’s book Fierce Women, aired twice and was voted the #1 segment of 2015, prompting the publication of this book.

My thoughts: I thought that this book was excellent! I have read some of the book "Fierce Women", which is a wonderful companion to this one. Some women just have strong personalities. This book is an excellent resource for those women and their husbands, since it shows how God can use the warrior heart and how strong women work together with their husbands to magnify the good qualities in both. I can think of several women who would love this book! It wound up not being quite what I thought for myself to relate to, but I still enjoyed it and think that it is a fabulous set of books!
I received this book from Moody publishers in exchange for my honest review.

Love Unending

A 21-day journey to remember daily why you first fell in love.
Tremendous freedom is found when we start each day without a yesterday hanging over our heads. This book invites you to wake up daily acting and thinking toward your husband as if there was no yesterday to overcome--as if there were no hurts or offenses, and no record of right or wrong. As you complete 21 daily challenges, you ll be reminded of how you felt and acted when you first fell in love. As you remember what you did and how you felt in those early days, you ll see that to keep love from ending, sometimes you have to go back to the beginning.
This book isn't just for those with struggling marriages. It is for anyone who wants to fall in love again with the person they have already chosen for life."

My thoughts: I needed this book! I knew, when I saw it come up for review on blogging for books, that I would enjoy it, since I loved her book on being a mother. This book works as an excellent reminder to focus on the good and remembering the love you felt for your spouse when your love was young. Marriage can change your relationship so much, but it doesn't have to be that way.
It's funny how I kind of burnt myself out on marriage books when my husband and I were first married, so I didn't pick up any for the last several years. Now that we have been married for over five years, I feel like it is a good season to refresh my thoughts on marriage.;) So, whether you are newlyweds or been married for ages, or somewhere in the middle, then this is an excellent book for you. Though, the newlyweds may wind up putting this book on the bookshelf for a few years.;)
I received this book from Blogging for books in exchange for my honest review.

If My Husband Would Change, I'd Be Happy

Like most brides on their wedding day, you no doubt were filled with love for your husband and the hope of a happy life together. But perhaps today, as the realities of life together have settled in, those happy expectations are going unfulfilled. And it's tempting to think, "If only my husband would change, I'd be happy."

That myth is but one of many that Rhonda Stoppe dispels in her easy-to-read exploration of what it takes to experience a truly happy marriage. In the process, she addresses such important topics asunderstanding your husband's need for your unconditional respectrekindling the love that drew you to your husband in the first placerefusing to believe the lie that you'd be happier married to someone elselearning to be content in the midst of financial strugglesthinking about sex from a biblical worldview

If you desire to rekindle the love and hope you felt on your wedding day, this book will go a long way toward making that dream come true.

Contains discussion questions and personal reflections at the end of each chapter.

My thoughts: This is an excellent book on marriage! So often, as women, we focus on the things we would change about our spouse or buy into the lie that we would be happier with someone else. Rhonda does a wonderful job of encouraging women to put their focus on Christ and making Him the center of their marriage.
I liked that Rhonda was easy to relate to and included notes from her husband on each chapter. This is a great book for newlyweds and those of us who have been married for a while. I think it would be great to study as a group too!
I received this book from Lit Fuse in exchange for my honest review.

Don't Go to Bed Angry

A practical handbook on how to fight better—together—for your marriage.

In every marriage, there is conflict. And with every conflict, there is a choice for resolution. Will you ignore the issue until it seemingly goes away? Or will you work together to find peace?

In Don’t Go to Bed Angry, Deb and Ron DeArmond give you permission to fight. Conflict isn’t the problem, after all; the real issue is how we deal with the conflict. Deb and Ron demonstrate how communication through conflict can safeguard—and even strengthen—your relationship. Immensely practical features including worksheets and discussion questions make this a definitive go-to resource to help you start fighting—together—for your marriage.

My thoughts: My husband and I did several sessions of ore-marital counseling before we were married, so a lot of the ideas in this book aren't totally foreign to me. That said, it has been about 6 years since we went through a lot of that stuff, so it was nice to have a refresher course! I appreciate the message that this book has about fighting fair, communicating (I think this was my favorite part, since they have some great tools for communicating better!), and taking stock of how baggage has affected each spouse. I also love that Deb and Ron are open and honest about their experiences and how that has shaped their message.
So, whether you have been married for a while or are just tying the knot, I think this is an excellent book to read and apply! I think it would make a great gift for newlyweds.
I received this book from Litfuse in exchange for my honest review.

Giveaway: Ron and Deb are giving away five copies of their book! https://promosimple.com/ps/9e7e

Letters to My Daughters: The Art of being a Wife

Barbara Rainey Offers Sage Advice on the Art of Being a Wife
Radio personality and bestselling author Barbara Rainey knows firsthand the challenges newly married couples face. Dismayed by Hollywood depictions of marriage and the seemingly easy solution of divorce, she sees a desperate need for a voice of experience, a mentor who has been there and understands--and can encourage, coach, and care.
As her daughters began their married lives, Barbara wanted to share with them, and now you, some of the lessons learned throughout her own marriage as well as those gleaned from years of ministry to couples. In these heartfelt, insightful letters, she answers the tough questions and addresses the realities of marriage. Through personal stories--including her own mistakes--and practical advice, Barbara provides the tools and direction to help you become a godly wife and determine your part in achieving a better marriage

My thoughts: This book is just gorgeous! I love that it is not only an excellent resource on marriage, but it is also gorgeous enough to be a keepsake. The format, letters from Barbara to her daughters/daughters in law, answering some of their questions on being a wife, is a fun way to read a book on marriage. I like that she has backed her letters with her own experiences and added insight from marriage books that touched her own union.
This book would make a wonderful wedding shower or wedding present, but is also an excellent resource for those of us who have been married for a while.
I received this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.

Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage

Every couple who wants a happy marriage will appreciate the revitalizing secrets in Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage. In it, Dr. Greg and Erin Smalley explore the traits of a healthy and thriving marriage.

Based on research of thousands of strong couples across the country, the twelve essential elements outlined are not only biblically based; they also chart a course for a romantic adventure that will last a lifetime.

With practical advice and stories from their own marriage and counseling experiences, Greg and Erin guide couples to find ways to work around roadblocks in their current relationship and to intentionally create communication patterns that will take them to emotionally safe places.

Yes, marriage can have its twists and turns. But the detours don’t necessarily have to lead couples off course. Greg and Erin help couples map out a journey for their marriages so that they can enjoy the passionate and intimate relationship that God has promised.

My thoughts: Life is full of ups and downs, those of which can affect our marriages. In this book, the Smalley's offer sound, biblical based advice in how to weather those storms and changes together. I love that they mix experiences in and research they have aquired. This is a great book to give to newlyweds or couples who have been married for a while. They did a wonderful job of making it applicable to couples in all walks of life.
I received this book from Tyndale in exchange for my honest review.

A Reason to Stay

As the host of her own television news show, Faith Marin works to expose the truth for her viewers. But in her personal life, she's anchored her world with firm boundaries in order to hide a family history she'd like to forget. Her pro bass fisherman husband Geary's life is an open book, and unfortunately his busybody family doesn't know the meaning of boundaries. Deception and crippling differences soon derail their tender relationship, leading Faith to believe her only option is to end the marriage. But while divorce papers sit on her desk waiting to be signed, tragedy strikes and her heartrending decision is interrupted. With her life in the balance, Faith finds that the one she has been shutting out may be the very one she cannot bear to lose.

Kellie Coates Gilbert takes readers on an emotional roller coaster as she weaves themes of unexpected trial, self-discovery, and forgiveness in this profoundly honest portrait of the tensions that can break a marriage--and the ultimate healing power of love.

My thoughts: To be quite honest, there were times with this story that both Faith and Geary really got on my nerves.;) That said, I still enjoyed the story, since it was well written and had a lot going on with it. I like how some of it is Faith's memories from the past and how she and Geary met. Their love story drives home that a lot of things would of been out in the open had they gone through per-marital counseling.;) I did like that when it came to the mistakes in their marriage that lead to a possible divorce, both of them were at fault. Kellie Coated Gilbert does a wonderful job of adding multiple layers to her stories and characters, making them realistic. This story makes a great read for a cool, Autumn day!
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.

Four Secrets

Good marriages don't just happen.

So what makes a marriage work? Not just for the honeymoon, but for a lifetime?

Is there a secret to the elderly couple, who are sitting on the park bench, still holding hands after fifty years of marriage? The answer is yes.

Author Michael Letney, shares his story, his mistakes, and the secrets he's learned that are essential to any lasting relationship. Marriage, like the tiers of a wedding cake, requires a solid foundation to support the layers on which the couple can stand firm through life.

Your happily ever after awaits.

The secrets to a marriage of Transparency, Truth, Trust, and Unity are not just for some-they are for you. Learn what makes a relationship not only persevere through the most difficult challenges, but also grow to deeper love, commitment, friendship, and unity.

This is the perfect book not only for newlyweds, but for those who want to deepen their relationship and strengthen their marriage…and for those who are ready to call it quits. It's never too late.

My thoughts: I have read a lot of marriage books over the years (I will point out that I didn't start reading them until I was engaged to my husband, unlike one of my friends, who had read a large chunk of the Christian marriage books out there before she was even dating her husband.;)), though I have started to slow down on reading them since a lot of them have a lot of the same principles and ideas. I found Michael Letney's book to be refreshing, interesting, and easy to get through, since he uses personal stories and failures (as well as triumphs) to show how vital Transparency, Truth, Trust, and Unity are in a marriage. I really appreciated how he shared some of his failing and how God used them as a wake up call for his marriage. This is a great resource for both engaged couples and those who have been married for a while!
I received this book from Worthy in exchange for my honest review.

Hot Mama

It’s easy for us moms to slip into the habit of letting the craziness of our days interfere with our relationships with our husbands. We simply don’t have the energy or the ideas for a spicy, satisfying sex life. We’re usually just amazed we made it to the end of the day without collapsing or throttling someone.

Hot Mama to the rescue!

In this witty book, hot mamas Kathi Lipp and Erin MacPherson share hilarious stories and creative ideas from moms everywhere to help you build a relationship with your spouse that’s happy, healthy, and fun. From building confidence and banishing guilt to flirting (remember that?) and wearing clothes that get you—and him—in the mood, Kathi and Erin show you how to take your sex life from ho-hum to sizzling hot.

My thoughts: This is great resource for mothers! Both those who are new mothers and those who have had children for some time. While having a family is a blessing, at times it is hard to juggle your marriage, family, and commitments. In this book, Kathi and Erin are incredible candid and fun as they share some of the secrets they have found to keep their marriages going strong. They have some wonderful ideas and resources for keeping love alive and prioritizing. I highly recommend this one! It would make a great gift to new mothers especially, but there is something in this book for mothers of all ages.;)
I received this book from Revell in exchange for my honest review.

When Beauty is a Beast

We have no qualms laying out men’s sins—especially abusive behavior. But we’ve avoided “going there” when it comes to women. This book offers advice to heal marriages and families where women display controlling behavior or create fear. It will help turn crumbling relationships into partnerships of love and trust.

My thoughts: This book provides a unique view on the relationship between a husband and wife and the tactics that women can use to control their marriage. Some of the things one will learn to avoid in this book:
Controlling your spouse
Using all forms of abuse
Transferring blame
Setting unreasonable expectations
Creating doubts or fear.
None of us are perfect, and I appreciated that this book points out some different things that a wife can struggle with. Whether or not they are full blown faults or just the start of a bad habit. This book was eye opening and would be a great resource for any young adult or grown woman who is looking to start a marriage with good habits or trying to learn to get past old habits that are unhealthy.
I received this book from Cedar Fort in exchange for my honest review.

The One

If you’re looking for average, go ahead and put down this book. No hard feelings.

Most people will admit that they are looking for an amazing love story. We’ve all seen those couples, the ones holding hands or whispering to each other as they stare into one another’s eyes as if they share an awesome secret. We watch them and wonder, what’s up with those two?
We never anticipated becoming one of “those couples.” When we met, we just worked on listening to God and preparing ourselves for the story he planned for us. What we learned and want to share is that no matter what your relationship status may be, this amazing story begins with you.
In this book we share more than the events happening around “The Surprise Wedding.” We share our triumphs and our mistakes, both before and after that day. You’ll learn healthy habits you can start practicing today, ones that will help you lay the groundwork for an incredible marriage later. God has something amazing in mind for you, but he can’t get you there without your help.

We absolutely believe in The One. And we believe that you’re it.

My thoughts: When Ryan over heard his girlfriend mention to a friend that she would like to get engaged and married on the same day, he decided to work on making it happen. Seeking to give Amanda the wedding she always wanted, he starts on a fun journey that leads to their wedding video going viral.
I actually had never heard of Ryan and Amanda Leak, but it was fun to read about their wedding and the thoughts they have on finding the one. While I don't think getting engaged and married on the same day would work for every couple, they have a lot of great insight on how to center your relationship on the Lord.
I received this book from Blogging for Books in exchange for my honest review.

13 Women You Should Never Marry

Instead of being a how to guide, this book serves as a wonderful guide for men on the type of women to watch out for. All of us have our flaws, but Mary Colbert does a wonderful job of amplifying those flaws in her examples to show men what types of women to run the other way from. I like that at the end of each chapter about the personality, she gives a list of things that should be red flags, caution signs, and then the characteristics of a virtuous woman in comparison, so that men looking for love, and their friends/family can help see the signs. This book is a fun one to read! Even though I don't have any sons yet, I hope to someday, so I was reading this from more of a mother's point of view. I think there is still a lot of good information in here for women, since I am sure most of us can relate to some of these women. This book is a great reference for those looking for a marriage that will be well suited and last a lifetime. I very much enjoyed Mary's way of writing, since she didn't try to make herself look amazing in the process.;) Two thumbs up!
If you are interested in seeing what the 13 women are like, check out this article.
I received this book from Worthy in exchange for my honest review.

I Choose You Today

Married for nearly 38 years, author Deborah DeArmond and her husband have made the spoken declaration, “I choose you today” a regular part of their communication. It’s when we least feel like saying it that we need to remind ourselves that love is a choice, not a feeling. I Choose You Today features 31 scriptural principles that support marriage and help couples develop healthy biblically based behavior.

Built on an introductory anecdotal story, each chapter has an inspirational takeaway of not only what to do, but how to begin applying the principles immediately. Thought provoking questions create talking points for couples to explore their own choices and experiences in each area serve to generate open dialogue of discovery. I Choose You Today is not a book of “shoulds,” but one of clearly identified choices that each individual can make to grow their marriage and align it with the word of God. Every saying ends with a conventional wisdom quote.

My thoughts: I enjoyed this book and the ideas it presents for couples on the different things they choose to do to show their love (or increase it) to a spouse. I like that each chapter is short and concise. Deb does a wonderful job of weaving together her concepts with personal stories, scripture, and thoughts for how to implement things. I love that the book works well for going through as a couple or for working alone. This book is a wonderful gift for those who have been married for a bit and want to strengthen their marriage, though I can see that it would also be a good resource for a newly married couple, since it would encourage them to set up healthy patterns early one.
Two thumbs up!
I received this book from litfuse in exchange for my honest review.