Saving Your Marriage: an excellent resource
936828
I require every couple who invite me to perform their wedding ceremony to read the Parrotts book. In 25 years of pastoral ministry this is the best resource I've found for premarital counseling. I have also gone through the book with several couples who are already married and experiencing challenges in their relationship. Highly recommended for pastors and couples.<a data-hook="product-link-linked" class="a-link-normal" href="/Saving-Your-Marriage-Before-It-Starts-Seven-Questions-to-Ask-Before-and-After-You-Marry/dp/0310259827/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_rvw_txt?ie=UTF8">Saving Your Marriage Before It Starts: Seven Questions to Ask Before and After You Marry</a>
3413514
My wife stumbled upon Kevin Thompson's blog a few years ago.  His advice has gotten us through some challenging times in our marriage.  We were SO pleased to see him write a book.  His advice brings a fresh yet raw perspective on marriage, including a good healthy dialogue regarding intimacy, which is currently lacking within the Christian community.  It was fun diving into our relationship this week as my wife and I read the book.  We've had great conversation on things we feel we can improve upon.  Whether you are recently married or have been married for many years, all couples can benefit from his matter-of-fact advice, while enjoying his great sense of humor.  This will be a book I gift at any wedding, as well as to family members.  Thank you Kevin A. Thompson for strengthening our marriage and our family!
541082
I've said it before, and I'll say it again: a married person can't read too many books about marriage.  I can't speak for husbands everywhere, but I know I need all the help I can get.  Greg and Julie Gorman offer some help in What I Wish My Mother Had Told Me About Marriage: Unlocking 10 Secrets to a Thriving Marriage.  By looking at their own marriage, at lots of scripture, and at solid wisdom about marriage relationships, the Gormans offer their take on improving and loving together.

The first "secret" (it's not really a secret) is "the key to experiencing a thriving marriage is our complete surrender to God."  This is the non-negotiable starting point for all the rest of what they say.  In marriage, as we surrender to God, we commit to serving one another: "Marriage requires us to exchange our selfish nature for Christ's servant-like nature."  That commitment is not easy, and takes a deliberate effort.  They write, "Just because two Christians marry does not mean they'll automatically have a Christian marriage."  Both partners must "cultivate and practice servanthood within your marriage relationship."  If you master that point, the rest of the book is unnecessary.  But it's still helpful.

Without "revealing" the other 9 "secrets" I thought I'd add some general thoughts about the book.

Some things I liked about WIWMMHTMAM:

-- The Gormans are honest and open about their own marriage and struggles they've had.  Julie discusses the abuse she suffered, they talk about their blended family, and they recount the knock-down, drag-out fights they had early on.

-- Each chapter includes "A Letter from the Father," which takes scripture and mashes it together in letter form pertaining to the theme of the chapter.  It's very effective in bringing scriptural thoughts to a first-person divine voice.

-- The book is primarily written by Julie, but each chapter includes "Greg's Turn," in which Greg corrects all of the errors Julie makes.  Just kidding, of course.  He affirms Julie's piece and provides the male perspective.

What I didn't like as much about WIWMMHTMAM:

 -- "Secrets" is overused in book titles.  The 10 "secrets" promised in the subtitle aren't secrets, but age-old, time-tested truths.  This will surprise no one.  Nobody picks up a book like this thinking that they will find among the pages some previously hidden secret formula.  So why do publishers insist on putting this in so many book titles?

-- Many books with "secret" in the title are in the self-help/motivational genre.  Julie makes her living as a motivational/inspirational speaker.  Some of that tone carries over into the book, in both her style and in her selection of writers from which she quotes.  This is a taste issue as much as anything.  The more you sound like Tony Robbins, the more turned off I get.

Whether you've been married for decades or just starting out, you will glean some truth from and be challenged by WIWMMHTMAM.  The Gormans and the couples they discuss here have probably been through whatever you're going through and will help you remember that marriage is worth the effort to make it work and thrive.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the complimentary electronic review copy!
3532400
Excellent resource to understand yourself, and your mate. Don't take shortcuts, your marriage is worth every minute you invest in this book.
488447
This book highlights true to life situations that occur in marriages worldwide on a day to day basis. It is a "must read" for anyone in a relationship, whether married or not. The writer gives insights into subtle things that can creep into a relationship and cause pain and separation. Reading this book will definitely help others to identify these things and help you to deal with these issues before it is too late. The writer points out how important and sacred the marriage relationship is and also the characters bring to life how much persons can work hard to save their marriage.
I think this book could definitely save a marriage that is falling apart. It is also an excellent book for persons thinking of getting married, as it tells of situations to avoid and also things to be aware of.
I would not hesitate to recommend this book to others.
270537
I've been married for thirty-five years. When people ask me the reason for our longevity, I say "we know how to repair our disagreements quickly." Finally, here in Dr. Susan Campbell and Dr. John Grey's book, "Five-Minute Relationship Repair", you'll find the secrets to a successful relationship. The authors have captured concepts that have eluded couples for years. In their concise, insightful, and invaluable guide they reflect the essence of good bonding and building so couples, or friends, and co-workers can go on to enjoy each other.

The book helps couples develop a code-a language which gets them out of the Holes that trigger each of us.  These concepts are deceptively simple, easy to understand, devoid of criticism and blame, and they work. It is a must for any relationship.
2291297
I was impressed with this book.  It provides both practical advice on interpersonal skills for the issues you will need to deal with in separating with your spouse, and the legal aspects that will affect your separation. It is sensitive to the effects this will have on your family, provides a comprehensive and thorough outline of the law, and includes the formulas so you can inform yourself and your spouse.  I think that's one of the most important things that I like about the book-- it gives you the info you need to really think about the costs involved and how you can expect the court to determine the finances.  Very important to know before anyone makes a decision you can't take back.

I thought the text was accessible for anyone to read, and the author does a great job making the book both conversational and informative.  I was really surprised-- it's an easy read that systematically covers all the different aspects of divorce, and gears a couple toward informing themselves, and handling something so traumatic with integrity.
3043461
There are few books on this subject that actually speak the Bibilical truth about the Covenant of Marriage.  Joe Webb's is one of them.  Dr. Webb discusses the subject of Divorce and Remarriage in an easy-to-follow format.  His arguments are solid, taken straight from scripture.

While I wish he had taken an even firmer stand than he does here, the conclusion that marriage ends only in death is indisputable.  A valuable book for Pastors as well as those contemplating marriage, divorce, or remarriage.

I also recommend "Holy Whoredom" by Believer X which brings a sledgehammer to the topic and bashes down all arguments against the Marital Permanence View.

http://www.amazon.com/Holy-Whoredom-Ashtoreth-Daughters-Harlotry/dp/0578059320/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1348542542&sr=8-1&keywords=Holy+Whoredom
3880837
"Marry Wisely, Marry Well by Ernie Baker is a book for such a time as this in our Christian culture when the God ordained and established institution of marriage is under fierce attack from all sides, when Christian dating all too often leads to immoral and ungodly behavior with devastating consequences, and the divorce rate among Christians is at an all-time high.

In his new book, author Baker provides solid Biblical wisdom as to how to plan and prepare for a Christ honoring marriage, explaining how to put Christ first in all things relating to getting married.  He addresses the issue of how to deal with our "attractions" with others in a Biblical and godly way with someone that could potentially be our future husband or wife. As we struggle with the issues of our being attracted to someone with the idea of potentially marrying them, he offers invaluable insights regarding how to live during the single years before we get married. And  when we think we have finally found "the one" for us that God has for us to marry, he skillfully shares about what to do and not to do during the dating process leading up to marriage.

The book is divided into 3 parts with Part 1 being "Laying the Good Foundation" offering practical Biblical steps how to do so...that is lay a good foundation for a Biblical marriage that will honor and glorify God. Part 2 "Building a Structure to Live In" he builds off the foundation he laid in Part 1 sharing what we need to know and do during our single years to prepare us for marriage and then moves us on to the things we need to know that will properly prepare us for marriage such as handling communication and relational issues properly and knowing when the time has finally come and it is right for you to get married. In Part 3 he shares about the outcome of being a wise builder, properly planning for marriage, leading to a marriage that glorifies God and produces good for all who are involved - the husband, the wife, the children, the church and the world. And at the end of each chapter there is a section "Starting To Prepare Now" and then "Questions to Ask" such as "Questions to Ask About a Potential Spouse" and others relating to the material in each different chapter of the book which you personally respond to.

If you are desiring to get married or are working towards getting married and want to have a God glorifying Christ honoring marriage, then this is the Biblical and practical book for you. It will help you immensely. I highly recommend your purchasing this book, reading it, responding to the questions and then applying what you have learned so when you finally meet "the one" you will be as ready as any Christian can be for marriage.

I received the book from Cross Focused Reviews and Shepherd Press as part of their Book Review Blogger program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255: Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
2124053
These are the themes that permeate this work. Author Brian M. has written a useful and practical guide to help those distraught and unable to heal their marriages. Unions are hard and even though there are elaborate ceremonies to get married and so much advice in this arena, there is very little advice on how to stay married. If this is your reality, this book is for you. I highly recommend.
1786256
This book provides keys that will impact your marriage for the better.  Thirty wives discussing real issues in marriage.  They also lend their wisdom and words of encouragement. This book is perfect for newlyweds and experienced couples.  I would also recommend this book for women planning to be married or who have divorced.  It is laced with valuable information that can prepare you to face the difficult times in marriage.  It can also show you what went wrong in a failed marriage.  GREAT BOOK! Get your copy NOW!
4101402
We have been married for 43 years but we had reached some new problems with retirement togetherness. This book is intended for the married with children group when both partners are too busy for nurturing a relationship. But we found and adopted some of the ideas brought forth in this book. My husband is amazed how quickly we found answers that are working GREAT for us now. We are creating positive energy where none was before and finding solutions that revitalize our lives and bring FUN into our 43 year old marriage. We learned models for making decisions ways to manage anger, break free of old patterns, and ways to get close that makes us the envy of our friends.

  I recommend this book to any couple, it is easy to read and understand. It provides some good suggestions that anyone could easily adopt. If you buy this book, it won't gather dust after you have read it, you will go back to it again and again for more of the great ideas you find here.

Linda K. DeCamp

Michigan
1684692
This is a terrific resource for any husband, father, or supportive caregiver whose loved one is facing breast cancer.  John Anderson opens his heart and life to us and offers wonderful practical advice from the knowledge he gained during the time he and his wife Sharon battled breast cancer.  As anyone who has been down the road of navigating a life threatening illness knows, it is not easy.  John honestly looks at the toll it takes on a marriage and how you can come through together on the other side.  As I read this book, it really became a testament to the power of honesty and strength of two people confronting their fears and reaffirming their love at the same time.  OK but it isn't just about that - it is also practical information that can help anyone who feels helpless when their spouse is so ill.  Things like how to handle that first time you look at the scars of surgery or when is it a good time to tell the kids.  Anderson confronts his own guilt - tired of having a sick wife, tired of the stress and tired of being positive and that honesty will help readers who may be facing a similar situation cope. This is a tremendous resource and one that you will read cover to cover and then go back and reread particular sections.
1389368
Author Cory Spring gives a timely reminder to couples who are currently faced with challenges in their respective marriages. In his new book this year (2016), Marriage, How to Save Your Marriage and Rebuild Connection, Intimacy and Trust by Understanding It Better is a book about how husband and wife can save a failing marriage by reminding the married readers of their vows of staying together no matter what their individual differences maybe. This is a highly recommended read. Kudos to the author !!!
1542952
Leslie Vernick has written an excellent book to help women see if they are in an emotionally destructive marriage. A quiz is given to help women determine exactly where their marriage stands. Tips are provided to help women to change in healthy ways, to gain the skills they need, and to stay safe.  Each chapter offers a prayer and an action step for the women to take. Leslie has been counseling individuals, couples, and families for over 30 years, and this book truly shows women how to set boundaries and break free from emotionally destructive relationships. I recommend this book for anyone in an potentially unhealthy marriage or relationship.
3054873
As a Marriage Coach, I'm grateful to spouses and Marriage Experts Nancy Wasson and Lee Hefner for writing Survive Marriage Separation.  It is an indispensible guide book for anyone managing a separation, and I am adding it to my collection of resources for clients.  Both practical and compassionate, Nancy and Lee outline clear, simple steps to help you regain your emotional balance, take care of yourself,  and make effective decisions during this difficult time.  They also  provides strategies to not only maximize your chances of saving your marriage, but to move forward regardless of the outcome.
2757678
Most of the books I have read on this subject say pretty much the same thing. This one is different and I found it extremely helpful. If you want to save your marriage and need help feeling good about yourself and your spouse this is the book. I specifically found the following chapters extremely insightful.  Chapter 4 talks about the concept of emotional acceptance and emotional resistance and made so much sense to me.  Chapter 5 ideas to embrace and ideas to erase was dead on. You have had these thoughts, no way you couldn't. Learn which ones to hold onto and  which  ones to forget. You don't want to be the victim or the persecutor. Chapter 10 seven healing beliefs. Wow! NOT in any of the other books I've read. Chapter 12 is on reconstructing your marriage. This was probably about the 16 or17th book I have read. I wish it had been in the first 4 or 5.