This book was written by Erin Smalley who works as the Marriage Spokesperson with Focus on the Family. I had never read anything by her previously and so I did not know what to expect when it came to this book, but both the title and description drew me in.

I have not been married very long and have only read about half a dozen Christian Marriage books which is not many considering the vast number that are out there today. Each book that I have read takes a different approach. Some focus on the theology of marriage and some focus more on the practice side of marriage. Some talk about the ways that men and women are different and others focus on tips to make your marriage better. I feel that this book is a great mixture of all of these aspects. While it is not theologically deep, Smalley does use Scripture to back up each of her points. She also provides a great mix of examples, statistics and practical tips to help you accomplish the task or point she is making.

There were several different things I enjoyed about this book. I appreciated the structure of each chapter. She would make her point providing real life examples, thoughts and statistics and then draw the reader into thinking practically towards the end of each chapter. Every chapter ended with reflection questions and a sample prayer for both the wife to pray for herself and then a prayer to pray over her husband.

One of the minor things that bothered me, which may not bother anyone else is that she used so many different translations of Scripture throughout the text. For me it would be easier to follow up and read a passage if it was only in one translation. I also don't feel that this is a scenario where multiple translations are necessarily beneficial.

Overall, I would recommend this book. It is a book that I learned from and would consider doing with a group of girls or friend as a book study.

I received a free copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for my review. ( )

I don't often rave about books, but this one is worth every word of praise. It is a must-have book and I think should be included with the marriage counseling before the wedding.

It is eye opening. I encountered many of the problems that I thought only I struggled with, but lo and behold I am not alone. Erin Smalley even sheds light on the mystery that is man and his thought processes. She uses examples out of her own marriage in this book, and it was a wakeup call for me. I realised that I have been stepping back, expecting my husband to understand throuhg ESP what I wanted from him. Now I am an active partner and it has changed our relationship.

I cannot thank her enough for this book, and it is going to be a gift to every one of my friends. Brava Erin Smalley, this book was long overdue.

Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book. ( )