If you’re looking to strengthen your relationship before saying “I do,” I recommend exploring some top premarital counseling books. These resources combine biblical principles with practical tools to improve communication, align expectations, and build a Christ-centered marriage foundation. They’re great for engaged couples and faith-based groups. By choosing the right one, you can foster transparency and emotional connection. Keep going to discover which books can truly support your journey toward a lifelong commitment.
Key Takeaways
- These books offer biblically grounded, practical tools to foster honest communication and spiritual growth before marriage.
- They cover essential topics like conflict resolution, intimacy, finances, and family expectations to build a strong foundation.
- Many include reflection questions, real-life examples, and exercises tailored for engaged couples and faith-based groups.
- Select titles authored by credible experts with theological or counseling backgrounds to ensure reliable guidance.
- They serve as durable resources for ongoing relationship development and navigating unique dynamics like neurodiverse marriages.
Tying the Knot: A Premarital Guide to a Strong and Lasting Marriage

If you’re looking for a premarital counseling book that grounds marriage in biblical truth and practical application, *Tying the Knot* is an excellent choice. I appreciate how it centers on Jesus as the foundation, viewing marriage as part of God’s divine plan. The book emphasizes love’s perseverance over feelings, highlighting the importance of a personal relationship with Christ. It covers essential topics like communication, roles, finances, and intimacy, providing practical exercises to foster honest conversations and unity. I found it accessible, biblically solid, and straightforward—perfect for couples preparing to build a Christ-centered, resilient marriage.
Best For: engaged couples and premarital counselors seeking a biblically grounded, practical guide to building a strong, Christ-centered marriage.
Pros:
- Biblically solid and rooted in Scripture, emphasizing Christ as the foundation of marriage
- Practical exercises and homework to promote honest conversations and unity
- Clear, accessible, and well-structured, making it suitable for both couples and counselors
Cons:
- Slightly high price point for the paperback and e-book versions
- Some may wish for more in-depth development on Christ’s role as Creator and Lord of marriage
- Omits discussion on childbearing and rearing, which are biblically significant topics
Preparing for Marriage: Help for Christian Couples

Premarital counseling books like “Preparing for Marriage: Help for Christian Couples” are especially valuable for engaged couples committed to building their marriage on biblical principles. I find this book particularly helpful because it emphasizes marriage as a divine calling rooted in God’s purpose. It offers practical tools, including 55 key questions covering finances, sex, and faith—topics couples often overlook. The reflections foster deep conversations, helping couples align their expectations with biblical truths. Endorsed by pastors and Christian leaders, it encourages self-awareness and spiritual growth. This resource prepares you not just for marriage, but for a biblically grounded, spiritually fulfilling life together.
Best For: engaged Christian couples and singles seeking to deepen their biblical understanding and practical readiness for marriage.
Pros:
- Offers comprehensive, biblically grounded questions to facilitate meaningful discussions about key marital topics.
- Endorsed by trusted pastors and Christian leaders for its depth and spiritual focus.
- Provides practical tools and reflections that promote self-awareness, spiritual growth, and alignment with God’s purpose.
Cons:
- May require significant time commitment to thoroughly discuss and reflect on all questions.
- Some readers might find certain topics sensitive or challenging to address openly.
- The depth of content might be overwhelming for couples seeking quick or superficial premarital guidance.
I Do!: A Marriage Workbook for Engaged Couples

Looking for a practical, engaging way to prepare for marriage without the need for traditional counseling? I Do!: A Marriage Workbook for Engaged Couples is an excellent choice. It encourages meaningful conversations, helps couples understand each other better, and tackles tough topics like love languages, parenting, and conflict resolution. The workbook features interactive exercises, prompts, and space for honest answers, making it easy to explore relationship strengths and areas for growth. Many couples find themselves feeling closer and more connected after working through it. It’s versatile, suitable for engaged, newlywed, or long-term couples, and can be revisited over the years to strengthen your bond.
Best For: engaged couples, newlyweds, and long-term partners seeking an interactive, non-traditional way to prepare for marriage and strengthen their relationship.
Pros:
- Facilitates meaningful conversations and better understanding between partners
- Offers practical exercises and prompts that are easy to revisit over time
- Non-religious, unbiased approach accessible to diverse couples
Cons:
- Requires time and commitment to fully engage with the workbook’s exercises
- Larger size may be less convenient for quick or casual use
- Some users may prefer personalized or professional counseling for deeper issues
Before You Say I Do: A Marriage Preparation Guide for Couples

Before You Say I Do: A Marriage Preparation Guide for Couples is an excellent choice for couples who want to actively strengthen their relationship before tying the knot. This Scripture-based workbook encourages honest communication through questions, quizzes, and reflection prompts, helping couples explore key topics like family, goals, and sexuality. It’s perfect for pre-marital counseling or personal growth, with many finding it insightful and practical. By working through it weekly, couples deepen understanding, clarify expectations, and assess readiness. Its biblical foundation aligns discussions with Christian values, making it especially valuable for those committed to building a God-centered marriage.
Best For: couples seeking to strengthen their relationship through biblical principles before marriage, whether engaged, seriously dating, or already married.
Pros:
- Encourages honest communication and deeper understanding between partners
- Provides practical reflection prompts and Scripture-based insights for growth
- Suitable for self-guided preparation or as a supplement to premarital counseling
Cons:
- May be demanding due to lengthy questions and scripture readings
- Focuses primarily on biblical principles, which may require interpretation for some couples
- Does not cover every potential area of concern, such as pet compatibility or specific conflicts
Tying the Knot: A Premarital Guide to a Strong and Lasting Marriage

If you’re seeking a biblically rooted resource that emphasizes Christ-centered marriage, *Tying the Knot: A Premarital Guide to a Strong and Lasting Marriage* is an excellent choice. This book focuses on Jesus as the foundation, viewing marriage as part of God’s divine plan rooted in Scripture. It addresses key topics like communication, roles, finances, community, and intimacy, all through a biblical lens. With practical homework and exercises, it encourages honest conversations and spiritual growth. Although brief, it offers clear, actionable guidance to help couples build a marriage grounded in biblical truth, making it a valuable tool for premarital counseling.
Best For: couples preparing for marriage who desire a biblically grounded, practical guide to build a Christ-centered and lasting relationship.
Pros:
- Biblically solid and Scripture-based, emphasizing Jesus as the foundation of marriage.
- Includes practical homework and exercises that foster honest conversations and spiritual growth.
- Concise and accessible, making it suitable for premarital counseling and engaged couples.
Cons:
- Slightly brief, with limited development on Christ’s role as Creator and Lord of marriage.
- Omits in-depth discussion on childbearing and rearing, which are biblically significant topics.
- The price may be considered somewhat high relative to its length and scope.
Premarital Workbook for Christians

The Premarital Workbook for Christians is an ideal resource for couples seeking to strengthen their relationship through faith-based guidance. It prompts meaningful conversations about key topics like finances, intimacy, and family, helping couples clarify expectations and deepen understanding. Many users find it improves communication and brings them closer emotionally and spiritually. It’s suitable for engaged couples, individuals, or Bible study groups, offering insightful exercises that encourage reflection and transparency. Many plan to keep it as a reference for future growth, making it a lasting tool for nurturing their marriage. It’s a practical, faith-centered way to prepare for a lifelong, Christ-centered partnership.
Best For: engaged couples, individuals, and faith-based groups seeking to deepen their understanding and prepare spiritually for marriage.
Pros:
- Facilitates meaningful, faith-centered conversations on essential topics
- Strengthens emotional and spiritual bonds between partners
- Serves as a lasting resource for ongoing growth and reflection
Cons:
- May require dedicated time and honesty to fully benefit from exercises
- Some users might find the Christian focus less applicable to secular couples
- Might be less engaging for couples seeking a purely secular premarital resource
An Intentional Marriage: Tools For A Stronger Relationship (RFP pbk books)

An Intentional Marriage: Tools For A Stronger Relationship stands out as an ideal resource for couples at any stage of their relationship, especially those steering the complexities of neurodiverse marriages. Written by Brian Hight, a man on the autism spectrum, it offers honest insights, practical tools, and actionable goals to foster deeper connection and understanding. The book emphasizes open communication and intentionality, helping both partners navigate challenges unique to neurodiverse relationships. Its relatable examples and strategies make complex concepts accessible, empowering couples to strengthen their bond through deliberate effort. This book is a valuable guide for anyone seeking growth, empathy, and relational maturity.
Best For: couples at any stage of their relationship, especially those navigating neurodiverse dynamics, seeking practical tools and deeper understanding to strengthen their bond.
Pros:
- Offers honest, firsthand insights from a neurodiverse perspective, enhancing relatability.
- Provides practical tools and actionable goals to improve communication and connection.
- Suitable for both partners and professionals, making it a versatile resource for growth and guidance.
Cons:
- May require readers to actively implement strategies for noticeable results.
- Some concepts might be challenging for those unfamiliar with neurodiversity to fully grasp initially.
- Focused on neurodiverse relationships, which may be less relevant for couples without neurological differences.
The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work: A Practical Guide

For couples committed to strengthening their relationship, “The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work” offers practical, science-backed advice that’s easy to understand and apply. I’ve personally seen how applying these principles can transform a marriage, emphasizing good communication, mutual respect, and shared meaning. The book explores common issues like unresolved conflicts and resentment, showing how most problems are solvable through effort and understanding. Its exercises are straightforward and effective, helping couples build trust and intimacy. I highly recommend it for anyone wanting to deepen their connection and create a resilient, loving partnership that can withstand life’s challenges.
Best For: couples seeking practical, science-backed guidance to strengthen their marriage and improve communication, intimacy, and conflict resolution.
Pros:
- Provides easy-to-understand, actionable exercises backed by scientific research.
- Offers insights applicable not only to marriage but also to friendships and family relationships.
- Encourages mutual effort and understanding, promoting long-term relationship resilience.
Cons:
- May require ongoing commitment and effort to see significant results.
- Some issues, like health or religious differences, may be more challenging to resolve fully.
- The principles may need to be revisited multiple times for deeper understanding and application.
Together Forever Gods Design for Marriage: Premarital Counseling Workbook

Couples seeking a spiritually grounded, practical guide to prepare for marriage will find Together Forever Gods Design for Marriage especially helpful. This premarital counseling workbook offers a well-rounded approach, covering essential topics like finances, family, priorities, and personal values, all infused with Scripture for deeper spiritual insight. It encourages meaningful discussions and ongoing growth, whether you’re just starting out or have been married for years. The workbook’s practical exercises and relatable humor make it engaging and relevant. While quality control issues exist, most users find it enlightening and highly beneficial, especially when facilitated by an experienced guide. It’s a resource I highly recommend for couples committed to building a Christ-centered marriage.
Best For: couples seeking a spiritually grounded, practical premarital counseling resource to deepen their understanding and build a Christ-centered marriage.
Pros:
- Offers comprehensive coverage of essential relationship topics infused with Scripture for spiritual depth.
- Encourages meaningful discussions and ongoing growth through practical exercises and relatable humor.
- Suitable for couples at any stage of marriage, whether just starting out or long-time partners, especially when facilitated by an experienced guide.
Cons:
- Quality control issues, such as damaged pages, can detract from the overall experience.
- Success relies heavily on having a mature, skilled facilitator to guide discussions effectively.
- Some users may find the physical quality or presentation less durable or polished.
101 Questions to Ask Before You Get Engaged

Are you seeking a practical way to deepen your understanding of each other before taking the next step? “Questions to Ask Before You Get Engaged” is perfect for couples who want honest conversations and want to identify potential issues early. This resource encourages open dialogue about core topics like values, finances, family, communication, and future goals. It acts as a conversation facilitator, prompting couples to reflect individually and discuss their answers. Many find it helps build trust, improve understanding, and prepare for marriage. Using this book can reveal hidden concerns and strengthen your connection, giving you confidence as you move toward engagement.
Best For: couples seeking to strengthen their relationship through meaningful, honest conversations before committing to engagement.
Pros:
- Encourages open and honest communication about critical relationship topics.
- Helps identify potential issues early, fostering trust and understanding.
- Acts as a conversation facilitator, making discussions more engaging and reflective.
Cons:
- Contains religious content that may not align with secular or non-religious couples.
- Some questions may feel repetitive or similar, potentially reducing novelty.
- It should be used as a supplement, not a replacement for professional counseling or other resources.
Ready or Knot? 12 Conversations Every Couple Needs to Have before Marriage

If you’re seeking a biblical, conversation-driven approach to assess your readiness for marriage, “Ready or Knot? 12 Conversations Every Couple Needs to Have before Marriage” is an invaluable resource. It guides engaged couples through essential discussions on faith, finances, communication, and character, using real-life examples and biblical principles. The book emphasizes honest dialogue, helping couples identify red flags early and make intentional decisions. With reflection questions at each chapter’s end, it encourages meaningful conversations that can strengthen your bond or reveal if you’re truly prepared. Overall, it’s a practical, faith-based tool to lay a solid foundation before saying “I do.”
Best For: engaged couples, Christian believers, and those seeking biblically grounded marriage preparation to ensure strong, intentional foundations before tying the knot.
Pros:
- Emphasizes honest, biblical conversations that promote transparency and intentionality.
- Includes real-life examples and reflection questions to facilitate meaningful dialogue.
- Helps identify red flags early, potentially saving couples from future dissatisfaction or divorce.
Cons:
- Primarily tailored for Christian audiences, which may limit appeal for secular or more inclusive perspectives.
- Not a workbook; it relies on reflection questions rather than structured exercises, which may be less engaging for some readers.
- The religious content and biblical references might feel less relevant or accessible for individuals with different beliefs or secular viewpoints.
Premarital Workbook for Christians

The Premarital Workbook for Christians is an ideal choice for couples who want to build their marriage on a solid spiritual foundation. I’ve seen how it sparks meaningful conversations about finances, intimacy, family, and expectations, helping couples deepen understanding and clarify priorities. Many users report it brings them closer, improves communication, and prepares them emotionally and spiritually for marriage. It’s perfect for engaged couples, individuals, or Bible study groups. I appreciate how it encourages reflection and transparency, making it a lasting resource for ongoing growth. Overall, it’s a valuable tool that supports faith-centered relationships and strengthens bonds before tying the knot.
Best For: couples, individuals, or Bible study groups seeking to strengthen their faith-based marriage preparation through meaningful conversations and spiritual growth.
Pros:
- Encourages deep, honest discussions on essential marriage topics like finances, intimacy, and expectations
- Fosters spiritual growth and aligns couples with Christian values
- Serves as a lasting resource for ongoing relationship reflection and development
Cons:
- May require dedicated time and effort to complete thoroughly
- Some users might find the prompts too focused on faith, limiting appeal for non-religious individuals
- Not a comprehensive guide on all marriage topics, so additional resources may be needed
The Meaning of Marriage Book

For couples seeking a marriage resource rooted in biblical truth and gospel-centered principles, *The Meaning of Marriage* by Tim and Kathy Keller offers invaluable guidance. This book emphasizes how the gospel shapes every aspect of marriage—from love and gender roles to sex and commitment. Keller’s insights are grounded in Scripture and his personal experience, making complex topics relatable and practical. He highlights marriage as a reflection of Christ’s love for the church, encouraging sacrificial service and spiritual growth. Whether you’re engaged or already married, this book challenges you to view marriage as a sacred covenant that points to divine love and grace.
Best For: couples and singles seeking a biblically grounded, gospel-centered perspective on marriage, relationships, and spiritual growth.
Pros:
- Deeply rooted in biblical doctrine and gospel principles, providing a strong spiritual foundation.
- Practical insights and personal anecdotes make complex topics relatable and applicable.
- Addresses both marriage and singleness, offering guidance for different life stages and situations.
Cons:
- May be challenging for readers unfamiliar with biblical concepts or theological language.
- Focuses primarily on a Christian worldview, which may not resonate with all readers.
- Some may find the emphasis on gospel-centeredness demanding in terms of spiritual commitment.
Pre-Marital Counseling: A Guide for Clinicians

Clinicians seeking a practical, step-by-step approach to pre-marital counseling will find “Pre-Marital Counseling: A Guide for Clinicians” especially valuable. This book offers a clear, session-by-session model that’s adaptable to various settings, with interventions, exercises, and resources designed to foster healthy communication and realistic expectations. Angela’s insights help avoid common rookie mistakes, especially around sensitive topics like sexuality. I appreciate its focus on individualizing plans for each couple and its accessible, engaging presentation. While the layout can be confusing, the practical guidance makes this a worthwhile resource, enhancing effectiveness in helping couples build strong, lasting relationships.
Best For: clinicians seeking a practical, adaptable, and comprehensive guide to effectively deliver pre-marital counseling in various clinical settings.
Pros:
- Provides a clear, session-by-session model with practical exercises and resources.
- Emphasizes individualizing plans to meet each couple’s unique needs.
- Offers valuable insights on handling sensitive topics like sexuality early in therapy.
Cons:
- The layout can be confusing due to its backwards assembly, with the last page at the front.
- The book is considered costly compared to similar resources.
- Some may find the material dense or less suitable for those preferring a highly flexible, less structured approach.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Premarital Counseling Books

When selecting premarital counseling books, I consider how well they align with my faith and values, ensuring biblical content resonates with my beliefs. I also look for practical advice that I can apply immediately, along with the author’s credibility and expertise. Additionally, I prioritize books that cover a wide range of topics and offer engaging, interactive elements to keep us motivated.
Biblical Content Alignment
Choosing premarital counseling books that align with biblical principles is essential for couples seeking a Christ-centered marriage. I look for books that explicitly incorporate scripture and emphasize God’s design for marriage, including roles, covenant, and spiritual growth. It’s important that the content addresses core biblical topics like love, forgiveness, submission, and grace, rather than relying solely on secular advice. I verify that biblical examples and references reinforce the spiritual purpose and divine foundation of marriage. Additionally, I ensure the author’s perspective aligns with biblical doctrine and promotes a Christ-centered approach. This helps me feel confident that the guidance I’m receiving is rooted in Scripture and supports building a marriage based on God’s truth and divine principles.
Practical Application Focus
Practical application is a crucial factor to consider when selecting premarital counseling books because it guarantees couples can actively implement what they learn. These books include exercises, reflection prompts, and action steps that promote real-world relationship skills. They often provide homework or activities couples can do immediately to improve communication, understanding, and conflict resolution. Prioritizing tangible tools over abstract theories helps couples translate biblical principles into everyday behaviors. Well-structured books encourage ongoing dialogue and revisiting topics over time, supporting sustained growth. Evidence shows that resources with practical components lead to higher relationship satisfaction and better conflict management after marriage. Choosing a book focused on practical application ensures you’re equipped with actionable strategies that foster long-term relationship health.
Author Credibility and Expertise
Evaluating an author’s credibility is essential because it guarantees you’re receiving trustworthy and biblically sound guidance for your marriage journey. I look for authors with solid professional backgrounds, such as degrees, certifications, or experience in marriage counseling or theology. Their expertise is often demonstrated through published works, peer-reviewed articles, or recognition from reputable organizations. Authors with pastoral, clinical, or academic credentials related to marriage and family therapy tend to provide more reliable advice rooted in biblical principles. I also check if they reference Scripture accurately and align their guidance with recognized theological or psychological standards. Endorsements from industry experts, clergy, or licensed professionals further confirm their authority, helping ensure you’re learning from someone truly qualified.
Topic Coverage Scope
When selecting a premarital counseling book, it’s important to take into account the range of topics it covers to guarantee it meets your needs. Some books focus solely on biblical principles, offering spiritual guidance, while others include practical relationship skills like communication, finances, intimacy, and conflict resolution. The scope can vary from brief overviews to in-depth explorations, so consider what level of detail you want. Some resources also incorporate discussions on spiritual growth, community involvement, and biblical foundations for marriage, providing a holistic approach. Choosing a book with a broad scope helps couples address multiple facets of marriage, fostering deeper understanding and readiness. Ultimately, selecting a resource that covers the key areas relevant to your relationship promotes thorough preparation.
Engagement and Interactivity
Have you ever wondered how engaging a premarital counseling book really is? I find that the most effective ones include interactive exercises, reflection prompts, or homework that encourage active participation. When books ask couples to discuss specific questions together, it fosters honest communication and deeper understanding. Features like spaces for written responses or practical activities help couples apply concepts directly to their relationship. Including real-life scenarios or case studies makes the material more relatable and keeps you engaged. Well-designed interactive content not only captures your interest but also promotes ongoing reflection, allowing you to revisit lessons throughout your marriage. This active involvement makes the learning experience more meaningful and lasting, helping couples grow closer and better prepared for the future.
Cultural and Theological Fit
Choosing a premarital counseling book that aligns with your cultural and theological beliefs is essential for meaningful growth. I recommend ensuring the book’s perspective matches your faith tradition, whether biblical, gospel-centered, or theological, to support consistent spiritual development. Consider the cultural context—look for examples, language, and assumptions that resonate with your background and experiences. It’s important the book emphasizes core doctrines or values important to your community, like grace, covenant, or gender roles, to reinforce your spiritual goals. Also, check if the authors share your religious beliefs, as this can influence the accuracy of biblical teachings. Finally, be mindful of how the book handles sensitive topics, ensuring they align with your faith and promote healthy, biblically grounded conversations.
Accessibility and Clarity
Selecting a premarital counseling book that is clear and easy to understand makes a significant difference in your learning experience. When a book uses straightforward language and avoids unnecessary jargon, it becomes accessible to couples with different educational backgrounds. Well-organized content with a logical flow helps you follow key topics without confusion or frustration. Visual aids like charts, bullet points, and summaries boost your comprehension and retention of complex concepts. Concise chapters and focused exercises prevent overload, making it easier to engage with and apply what you learn. Additionally, accessible books often define technical or biblical terms, supporting readers unfamiliar with specific language. Overall, choosing a clear and well-structured book guarantees you get the most out of your premarital journey.
Long-term Relevance
Considering long-term relevance is essential when picking premarital counseling books because marriage is an ongoing journey that evolves over time. I look for resources that offer lasting value and can be revisited through different life stages to reinforce biblical principles and practical skills. It’s important to choose books that address both immediate preparation and long-term growth, ensuring they stay useful over the years. I prefer materials like workbooks and discussion guides that encourage continual reflection, deepening communication and understanding. Additionally, I select books that adapt to changing circumstances, covering topics like conflict resolution, intimacy, and spiritual growth. Finally, I prioritize resources rooted in biblical truth and timeless principles so their teachings remain relevant regardless of cultural or personal shifts.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do Premarital Books Address Cultural Differences in Marriage?
Premarital books often address cultural differences by encouraging open dialogue, emphasizing respect, and exploring how diverse backgrounds influence expectations. I find they highlight the importance of understanding each other’s traditions and values, fostering empathy and compromise. These books provide practical tools to navigate cultural conflicts, helping couples build a strong foundation based on mutual appreciation. They remind us that embracing differences can enrich our relationship rather than divide us.
Can Premarital Books Help Resolve Ongoing Relationship Conflicts?
Absolutely, premarital books can be a real game-changer for resolving ongoing conflicts. They open up honest conversations, helping couples understand each other’s perspectives better. I’ve seen couples turn things around just by applying practical advice from these books. They’re like a fresh pair of glasses—clarifying issues and offering tools to work through disagreements. Don’t underestimate the power of the right reading material to strengthen your bond.
Are There Specific Books Tailored for Long-Distance Engaged Couples?
Yes, there are books specifically for long-distance engaged couples. I recommend titles like “The Long-Distance Relationship Survival Guide” by Chris Bell and Kelsey Fraser, which offers practical advice on communication, trust, and maintaining intimacy. These books help you navigate the unique challenges of being apart, strengthening your bond until you can be together again. They’re a great resource to keep your relationship resilient and thriving across the miles.
How Do Premarital Books Incorporate Mental Health Considerations?
Premarital books often incorporate mental health considerations by addressing common emotional challenges, stress management, and communication skills. I find they help couples recognize signs of anxiety or depression and encourage seeking professional support if needed. These books emphasize emotional well-being as essential for a strong relationship, offering practical exercises and insights to foster understanding, resilience, and healthy coping strategies, which ultimately strengthen your bond and mental health together.
Can Premarital Books Be Useful for Second Marriages or Blended Families?
Like a sturdy bridge, premarital books can definitely support second marriages or blended families. They offer valuable insights into steering through complex dynamics, communication, and rebuilding trust. I’ve found these resources helpful in understanding unique challenges and fostering harmony. Whether you’re blending families or starting anew, these books serve as practical guides, helping you create a strong foundation and build lasting bonds amid life’s twists and turns.
Conclusion
So, with all these great books at your fingertips, you’d think marriage prep would be a breeze, right? Turns out, even the best advice can’t guarantee a perfect marriage—much like planning a wedding, it’s about the journey, not just the guide. But hey, if you’re reading this, you’re already ahead. Just remember: no book can replace the real work, but they sure make the ride a little smoother. Cheers to your happily ever after!