The best 63 Marriage books

Marriage is a profound institution that shapes our lives and relationships in numerous ways. Our handpicked selection of books offers valuable insights into various aspects of marriage, providing practical wisdom and guidance for navigating this significant aspect of life.

Explore our collection to gain fresh perspectives, strengthen your relationship skills, and deepen your understanding of the complexities of marital life. Ready to delve into these enriching reads and discover new ways to nurture your partnership?

The best 63 Marriage books
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1
Marriage Books: The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work by John M. Gottman and Nan Silver

The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work

John M. Gottman and Nan Silver
A Practical Guide from the Country’s Foremost Relationship Expert
4.3 (310 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work about?

The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work (1999) draws on data from relationship studies and interviews to do exactly what it promises in its title. These blinks take you through the key changes you can make to overcome the common problems that damage relationships and build a supportive, romantic marriage.

Who should read The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work?

  • Couples who want to get the best out of their romantic relationship
  • Newlyweds who want a harmonious, long-lasting marriage
  • Anyone going through or considering divorce

2
Marriage Books: The Art of Loving by Erich Fromm

The Art of Loving

Erich Fromm
3.8 (197 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Art of Loving about?

The Art of Loving (1956) argues that love, like any other creative art, is something humans must practice in order to master. German-born psychologist and philosopher Erich Fromm describes various forms of love and highlights threats posed to them by capitalist society.

Who should read The Art of Loving?

  • Lovers
  • People who want to know what giving and receiving love entails
  • Anyone who likes classic books

3
Marriage Books: Daring to Trust by David Richo

Daring to Trust

David Richo
Opening Ourselves to Real Love and Intimacy
4.3 (163 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Daring to Trust about?

Daring to Trust (2010) offers a clear path to finding the confidence to trust yourself and the world around you. You’ll learn to overcome past trauma and accept life for what it has to offer, discovering how to live in the moment and work toward a better future.

Who should read Daring to Trust?

  • People who struggle with maintaining their self-control
  • Anyone looking to boost their self-confidence
  • People curious about human behavior and motivation

4
Marriage Books: Marriage, a History by Stephanie Coontz

Marriage, a History

Stephanie Coontz
How Love Conquered Marriage
4.2 (36 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Marriage, a History about?

Marriage, a History (2005) covers the history of the institution of marriage, from its genesis in the Stone Age to its recent crisis.

Who should read Marriage, a History?

  • People interested in social history and women’s studies
  • Couples considering marriage
  • Proponents of “traditional” marriage

5
Marriage Books: The Three Marriages by David Whyte

The Three Marriages

David Whyte
Reimagining Work, Self and Relationship
3.9 (28 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Three Marriages about?

In The Three Marriages (2009), David Whyte combines his worldly experience and talent as a poet to explore the three great loves we cultivate throughout our lives: the love of a vocation, the love of our own deeper self and the love of a special person with whom we choose to share our lives.

Who should read The Three Marriages?

  • Anyone interested in love and commitment
  • People wishing to find a deeper purpose in their life’s work
  • Anyone interested in exploring their spirituality

6
Marriage Books: Unfinished Business by Anne-Marie Slaughter

Unfinished Business

Anne-Marie Slaughter
Women, Men, Work, Family
3.6 (13 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Unfinished Business about?

Unfinished Business (2015) offers a frank analysis of a pressing question. Is it really possible for men and women to “have it all” in our modern society? Can we hope to have a great family life and great career? As these blinks reveal, striking a balance between the personal and the professional isn’t only possible; it’s easier than you might think.

Who should read Unfinished Business?

  • Women who want to have a successful career and a happy family
  • CEOs who want to provide a mother-friendly workplace
  • Men hoping to learn more about what equal romantic partnership means

7
Marriage Books: The 5 Love Languages by Gary Chapman

The 5 Love Languages

Gary Chapman
The Secret to Love That Lasts
4.5 (1,022 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The 5 Love Languages about?

The 5 Love Languages (2015) is a contemporary guide to developing a relationships of lifelong love that can easily overcome the hurdles that modern couples face. These blinks detail the five ways people give and feel love, and how any couple can use this knowledge to make their relationship more nurturing, affectionate and compassionate.

Who should read The 5 Love Languages?

  • Lovers wanting to know what to expect from marriage and how to make theirs work
  • Couples in crisis
  • People who want to meet their partner’s needs and have theirs met in return

8
Marriage Books: The Science of Kissing by Sheril Kirshenbaum

The Science of Kissing

Sheril Kirshenbaum
What Our Lips Are Telling Us
4.2 (283 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Science of Kissing about?

Kissing: it’s a normal part of life. But few people understand its true significance. The Science of Kissing (2011) explains why kissing is so rooted in both human and animal biology, what happens physiologically when we do it and why it’s a lot more important than you may realize.

Who should read The Science of Kissing?

  • Anyone who enjoys a passionate kiss
  • Students of biology, sociology or history

9
Marriage Books: Improving Your Relationship For Dummies by Paula Hall

Improving Your Relationship For Dummies

Paula Hall
4.3 (88 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Improving Your Relationship For Dummies about?

Improving Your Relationship For Dummies (2010) provides simple techniques for couples hoping to boost their intimacy, sharpen their communication and overcome challenges in a productive, healthy way. It offers advice for both new couples that want to start off on the right foot and long-term couples that hope to get things back on track.

Who should read Improving Your Relationship For Dummies?

  • Couples going through a rough patch
  • Partners hoping to improve communication
  • Anyone thinking about entering a relationship

10
Marriage Books: The Truth by Neil Strauss

The Truth

Neil Strauss
An Uncomfortable Book About Relationships
3.6 (123 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Truth about?

The Truth (2015) takes a close look at relationships, sex and trust, unpacking our assumptions about sex and arguing that monogamy may not be right for everyone.

Who should read The Truth?

  • Couples
  • People seeking a partner
  • Anyone who has questioned monogamy

11
Marriage Books: Excellent Daughters by Katherine Zoepf

Excellent Daughters

Katherine Zoepf
The Secret Lives of Young Women Who Are Transforming the Arab World
3.4 (14 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Excellent Daughters about?

Excellent Daughters (2016) is an inside look at the lives that young Arab women lead today, marked by restriction, segregation, violence and discrimination. These blinks also point out the signs of a slow but steady change in Arab countries, as young women fight for their rights to study, work and look toward a promising future.

Who should read Excellent Daughters?

  • Anyone following major developments in women's rights
  • Politicians and lawmakers seeking insight into Arab culture
  • Anyone interested in social issues beyond the Western world

12
Marriage Books: Why Love Hurts by Eva Illouz

Why Love Hurts

Eva Illouz
A Sociological Explanation
3.5 (57 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Why Love Hurts about?

Why Love Hurts (2012) is about the history of love, romance and relationships. These blinks detail the gender differences, cultural expectations and social structures that shape our conception of love and make it one of the more difficult emotions to experience.

Who should read Why Love Hurts?

  • Men who are fed up with being called unemotional
  • Women who are tired of being considered clingy
  • Singles who struggle to maintain relationships

13
Marriage Books: Sacred Cows by Danielle Teller and Astro Teller

Sacred Cows

Danielle Teller and Astro Teller
The Truth About Divorce & Marriage
3.0 (72 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Sacred Cows about?

Sacred Cows (2014) tackles the sacrosanct subject of marriage, an institution often considered to be above criticism. Rather than offering practical guidance on how to fix a marriage or how to recover after a marriage dissolves, these blinks consider how society is arranged to make us feel bad about divorce. The advocates of certain societal viewpoints are given a firm dressing down.

Who should read Sacred Cows?

  • Anyone looking for a novel perspective on divorce
  • Individualists and libertarians
  • People interested in sociology and psychology

14
Marriage Books: Labor of Love by Moira Weigel

Labor of Love

Moira Weigel
The Invention of Dating
3.3 (60 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Labor of Love about?

Labor of Love (2016) is your guide to the history of dating. These blinks walk you through the social, cultural and economic shifts that have shaped modern rituals of courtship and explain the curious fads and fashions of flirtation that have come and gone through the ages.

Who should read Labor of Love?

  • People who love to flirt or are serial daters
  • Students of psychology or the social sciences
  • Anyone who uses Tinder

15
Marriage Books: The All-or-Nothing Marriage by Eli J. Finkel

The All-or-Nothing Marriage

Eli J. Finkel
How the Best Marriages Work
3.7 (152 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The All-or-Nothing Marriage about?

The All-or-Nothing Marriage (2017) shows us the many ways in which the institution of marriage has changed over the years. Supported by a wealth of data and sociological studies, these blinks explain what makes the best marriages work and what causes the vulnerable ones to fall apart.

Who should read The All-or-Nothing Marriage?

  • Married people
  • Couples considering marriage
  • Singles who want to improve their relationship skills

16
Marriage Books: Hold Me Tight by Sue Johnson

Hold Me Tight

Sue Johnson
Your Guide to the Most Successful Approach to Building Loving Relationships
4.2 (268 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Hold Me Tight about?

Hold Me Tight (2008) focuses on one of life’s greatest challenges: building and sustaining an intimate relationship. Drawing on the author’s own highly successful couple therapy form EFT (Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy) – based on the idea that the quality of relationships are defined by key emotional moments, both positive and negative – these blinks show you how to form a deeper, and more enduring bond with your partner.

Who should read Hold Me Tight?

  • Recent singles who wonder what went wrong
  • Couples who want to sustain and nurture their relationship
  • Friends and family of people in rocky relationships

17
Marriage Books: The State of Affairs by Esther Perel

The State of Affairs

Esther Perel
Rethinking Infidelity
4.2 (254 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The State of Affairs about?

The State of Affairs (2017) tackles the tough subject of infidelity. Cheating is widely condemned as immoral, and yet, at some point or another, many people do it anyway. This book offers a fresh look at infidelity and asks a difficult question: Is it such a bad thing after all?

Who should read The State of Affairs?

  • Faithful lovers
  • Unfaithful lovers
  • Mistresses and manstresses

18
Marriage Books: Loving Your Spouse When You Feel Like Walking Away by Gary Chapman

Loving Your Spouse When You Feel Like Walking Away

Gary Chapman
Real Help For Desperate Hearts in Difficult Marriages
4.1 (172 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Loving Your Spouse When You Feel Like Walking Away about?

Loving Your Spouse When You Feel Like Walking Away (2008) is about difficult marriages and how to work things out when you’re most tempted to hit the eject button. Written by a marriage counselor with years of hands-on experience, this patient and thoughtful reflection on rocky marriages is ultimately filled with hope. With enough understanding, empathy and clear communication, Gary Chapman argues, there are few marriages that can’t be saved.

Who should read Loving Your Spouse When You Feel Like Walking Away?

  • Couples who’ve hit a rough patch in their marriage
  • Unfaithful spouses
  • Psychologists and counselors

19
Marriage Books: Eight Dates by John Gottman, Julie Schwartz Gottman, Doug Abrams and Rachel Carlton Abrams

Eight Dates

John Gottman, Julie Schwartz Gottman, Doug Abrams and Rachel Carlton Abrams
Essential Conversations for a Lifetime of Love
4.4 (380 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Eight Dates about?

Eight Dates (2019) helps couples navigate the ups and downs of a relationship. Whether you’ve been married for years or have just met the love of your life, the bedrock of any relationship is quality conversation. Uncover your partner’s innermost needs and desires by going out on the eight themed dates set out by the authors in this book. But don’t stop there – the wisdom from these eight recommended dates can be applied to any date you and your partner go on.

Who should read Eight Dates?

  • Anyone in a relationship
  • Couples looking to bring romance back into their relationship
  • Aspiring couples therapists or psychology students

20
Marriage Books: Keep Showing Up by Karen Ehman

Keep Showing Up

Karen Ehman
How To Stay Crazy In Love When Your Love Drives You Crazy
3.9 (110 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Keep Showing Up about?

Keep Showing Up (2019) examines the differences that can divide married couples and provides inspirational suggestions for overcoming these obstacles. These techniques bring spouses closer together as well as help reaffirm their faith in Christianity.

Who should read Keep Showing Up?

  • Christian women whose long-term marriages are in need of a tune-up
  • Newlyweds who have discovered marriage is harder than they expected

21
Marriage Books: How to Be an Adult in Relationships by David Richo

How to Be an Adult in Relationships

David Richo
The Five Keys to Mindful Loving
4.5 (481 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's How to Be an Adult in Relationships about?

How to Be an Adult in Relationships (2002) is the definitive guide to effective relationships. It focuses on how we can all become more loving, and more open to love, both for our own benefit and that of the wider world. Drawing on the Buddhist concept of mindfulness, author David Richo explores five concepts of mindful loving, and how they can be applied to relationships throughout our lives.

Who should read How to Be an Adult in Relationships?

  • Couples wanting to deepen their commitment to each other
  • Anyone seeking a meaningful relationship
  • Individuals wanting to end a relationship peacefully

22
Marriage Books: Love Sense by Sue Johnson

Love Sense

Sue Johnson
The Revolutionary New Science of Romantic Relationships
4.4 (364 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Love Sense about?

Love Sense (2013) is an exploration of the science of love. These blinks suggest that humans instinctively desire to connect with each other, and that relationship problems arise when lovers no longer feel secure. They also offer practical strategies for how to develop your love sense – that is, your ability to create fulfilling and long-lasting bonds with your loved ones.

Who should read Love Sense?

  • People aspiring to form long-lasting relationships
  • Those who have been in and out of fleeting romances
  • Lovers struggling with relationship difficulties

23
Marriage Books: Why Does He Do That? by Lundy Bancroft

Why Does He Do That?

Lundy Bancroft
Inside the Minds of Angry and Controlling Men
4.5 (230 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Why Does He Do That? about?

Why Does He Do That? (2003) reveals the psychology behind abusive men. Drawing on his experience as a counselor to male abusers, author Lundy Bancroft explains the nature of abusive thinking, the early warning signs of abuse, and the steps women can take to free themselves from an abusive relationship.

Who should read Why Does He Do That??

  • Anyone who feels trapped in an abusive relationship
  • Mothers considering leaving their abusive partner
  • People who suspect a friend or family member is being abused

24
Marriage Books: Relationship Goals by Michael Todd

Relationship Goals

Michael Todd
How to Win at Dating, Marriage, and Sex
3.0 (323 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Relationship Goals about?

Relationship Goals (2020) offers a blueprint for developing long-lasting relationships with your friends, your spouse, and God. Narrating his own experiences of heartache and healing, author Michael Todd examines common obstacles in modern relationships and gives tips for overcoming them. He also demonstrates how to set precise goals to help you aim for the right relationships.

Who should read Relationship Goals?

  • Single people concerned about choosing the right partner
  • People of faith seeking to strengthen their relationships with God
  • Individuals struggling to maintain a healthy marriage

25
Marriage Books: Untrue by Wednesday Martin

Untrue

Wednesday Martin
Why Nearly Everything We Believe About Women, Lust, and Infidelity Is Wrong and How the New Science Can Set Us Free
4.2 (173 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Untrue about?

Untrue (2018) aims to challenge the long-held assumption that women are less interested in sex than men. Diving into history and the details of the human body, Untrue reveals that not only do women have strong sexual desires, they’re wired to seek satisfaction from a variety of partners.

Who should read Untrue?

  • Women curious about female sexuality 
  • People who want to learn more about sexuality, gender, and society
  • People with an interest in social anthropology

26
Marriage Books: Slow Sex by Diana Richardson

Slow Sex

Diana Richardson
The Path to Fulfilling and Sustainable Sexuality
4.4 (435 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Slow Sex about?

Slow Sex (2011) makes a powerful case for a deceleration of our love lives in order to have more fulfilling sex and deeper, happier relationships. In our hectic and consumer-oriented society, sex is often used as a quick fix for physical satisfaction – but this can leave us feeling empty. Slow sex helps us unfold the potential of our sexuality by learning how to make love in a conscious, mindful way that is ultimately as healing as it is stimulating.

Who should read Slow Sex?

  • Couples seeking to reinvigorate their relationship
  • Anyone interested in having better sex
  • Those curious about meditation and higher states of awareness

27
Marriage Books: The Relationship Cure by John M. Gottman and Joan DeClaire

The Relationship Cure

John M. Gottman and Joan DeClaire
A 5 Step Guide to Strengthening Your Marriage, Family, and Friendships
4.6 (841 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Relationship Cure about?

The Relationship Cure (2002) prescribes a surprisingly simple solution to the problems that ail many of our relationships. Drawing on psychologist John M. Gottman’s extensive research, its insights and tips are equally applicable to relationships between romantic partners, friends, family members, and coworkers. 

Who should read The Relationship Cure?

  • Couples experiencing relationship problems
  • People looking for ways to get closer to their friends, coworkers, or family members 
  • Anyone wanting to improve their communication and relationship-building skills

28
Marriage Books: Opening Up by Tristan Taormino

Opening Up

Tristan Taormino
A Guide to Creating and Sustaining Open Relationships
4.2 (145 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Opening Up about?

Opening Up (2008) demystifies nonmonogamous relationships, and shows that there are many different ways of creating loving partnerships and building alternative families. By opening up their relationships, people can explore hidden desires, have lots of fun, and radically improve their self-awareness and communication skills.

Who should read Opening Up?

  • Open-minded thinkers who want to learn how to improve their relationships
  • Lovers who want to learn to communicate their desires more honestly
  • People exploring their sexuality

29
Marriage Books: Beyond Order by Jordan B. Peterson

Beyond Order

Jordan B. Peterson
12 More Rules for Life
4.5 (609 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Beyond Order about?

Beyond Order (2021) is a prescription for how to navigate the complexities of modern life. While Peterson’s previous work warned of the danger of excessive chaos, this new guide to living details the perils of too much rigid order.

Who should read Beyond Order?

  • Disorganized thinkers looking to clean up their mental room
  • Inactive dreamers in need of some motivation
  • Anyone looking for a little direction in life

30
Marriage Books: The Complete Kama Sutra by Vātsyāyana

The Complete Kama Sutra

Vātsyāyana
The First Unabridged Modern Translation of the Classic Indian Text
3.8 (130 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Complete Kama Sutra about?

The Complete Kama Sutra (1994) is a translation of the classic Indian text, which was compiled in the fourth century. It’s an enduring guide to the pleasures of love and sex.

Who should read The Complete Kama Sutra?

  • History buffs fascinated by ancient cultures
  • Lovers looking for wisdom and advice
  • People enthralled by erotica

31
Marriage Books: The Meaning of Marriage by Timothy Keller with Kathy Keller

The Meaning of Marriage

Timothy Keller with Kathy Keller
Facing the Complexities of Commitment with the Wisdom of God
4.2 (121 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Meaning of Marriage about?

The Meaning of Marriage (2011) is a meditation on marriage in an age of skyrocketing divorce rates and growing skepticism that a life of monogamy can deliver true happiness. Pastor Timothy Keller and theologian Kathy Keller ask what’s gone wrong – why are so many couples hesitant to take their vows and so many others calling it quits on their marriages? The authors’ answer: we’re far too idealistic, set impossible standards, and have forgotten the true meaning of matrimony – learning to love anew each day, a lesson at the heart of the Bible’s teachings.

Who should read The Meaning of Marriage?

  • Singles looking for their soulmates
  • Would-be divorcees thinking about giving it another chance
  • Engaged people wondering what married life has in store

32
Marriage Books: Set Boundaries, Find Peace by Nedra Glover Tawwab

Set Boundaries, Find Peace

Nedra Glover Tawwab
A Guide to Reclaiming Yourself
4.6 (656 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Set Boundaries, Find Peace about?

Set Boundaries, Find Peace (2021) lays out everything you need to know about boundaries: what they are, why you need them, and how to implement them in your life right now. By breaking down the ins and outs of setting healthy boundaries, these blinks will leave you feeling confident and empowered to finally tackle those thorny conversations that you’ve been avoiding for so long.

Who should read Set Boundaries, Find Peace?

  • People-pleasers who don’t know how to say no
  • Couples that have trouble communicating
  • Anyone who finds setting boundaries especially difficult

33
Marriage Books: The High-Conflict Couple by Alan E. Fruzzetti

The High-Conflict Couple

Alan E. Fruzzetti
A Dialectical Behavior Therapy Guide to Finding Peace, Intimacy & Validation
4.4 (243 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The High-Conflict Couple about?

The High-Conflict Couple (2007) is a guide to overcoming the common relationship pitfalls that lead to conflict and animosity. Drawing upon years of psychology research and therapy experience, Alan E. Fruzzetti explains where conflict comes from and how it can be reduced.

Who should read The High-Conflict Couple?

  • Couples tired of fighting with each other
  • People who struggle to accept the things they cannot change
  • Anyone wanting to be more present in their own life

34
Marriage Books: Safe People by Henry Cloud and John Townsend

Safe People

Henry Cloud and John Townsend
How to Find Relationships that are Good for You and Avoid Those That Aren't
3.6 (491 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Safe People about?

Safe People (1995) examines the traits of safe and unsafe people and teaches readers how to seek out the former and avoid the latter in their search for meaningful relationships. From a biblical perspective, the book talks about the importance of true connection.

Who should read Safe People?

  • Anyone interested in improving the quality of their relationships
  • Christians seeking ways to improve their lives
  • Lonely people looking for a way to build safe, happy, and lasting relationships

35
Marriage Books: Spiritual Partnership by Gary Zukav

Spiritual Partnership

Gary Zukav
The Journey to Authentic Power
4.0 (247 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Spiritual Partnership about?

Spiritual Partnership (2009) is about the new relationships that can develop when we tap into a deep, invisible consciousness. Becoming “multisensory” and engaging in spiritual partnerships with others will lead you to a life of freedom, joy, and authentic power.

Who should read Spiritual Partnership?

  • People interested in spirituality
  • Couples looking to strengthen their relationship
  • Anyone searching for meaning and purpose in life

36
Marriage Books: Loving Bravely by Alexandra H. Solomon

Loving Bravely

Alexandra H. Solomon
Twenty Lessons of Self-discovery to Help You Get the Love You Want
4.4 (237 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Loving Bravely about?

Loving Bravely (2017) is a primer on finding love through introspection and self-discovery. This guide to love teaches invaluable lessons about how to build relationships that actually last.

Who should read Loving Bravely?

  • Lonely hearts looking for love
  • True romantics seeking lasting relationships
  • Anyone curious about the psychology of attachment

37
Marriage Books: Love Worth Making by Stephen Snyder

Love Worth Making

Stephen Snyder
How to Have Ridiculously Great Sex in a Long-Lasting Relationship
4.2 (584 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Love Worth Making about?

Love Worth Making (2018) is a guide to enhancing sex and intimacy within committed partnerships. Drawing from real-life examples of sex and couples therapy sessions, it shows how both daily life and trauma affect our sexual feelings. It takes an emotional approach to untangling sexual problems and offers ideas on maintaining an erotic climate in a relationship.

Who should read Love Worth Making?

  • Partners who love each other but are struggling to keep desire alive
  • New couples who want to learn how to sustain their sexual relationship
  • Anyone interested in the emotional side of sexual connection

38
Marriage Books: Wired for Love by Stan Tatkin

Wired for Love

Stan Tatkin
How Understanding Your Partner's Brain and Attachment Style Can Help You Defuse Conflict and Build a Secure Relationship
4.5 (551 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Wired for Love about?

Wired for Love (2012) is a guide to maintaining closeness and emotional security within romantic partnerships. It uses research from neurobiology and psychology to show why long-term couples come into conflict, and it offers practical tips on how to use knowledge about brain functions to promote peace and mutual security in your relationship.

Who should read Wired for Love?

  • Partners in committed relationships
  • Couples seeking to manage conflict 
  • Those interested in social psychology

39
Marriage Books: Us by Terrence Real

Us

Terrence Real
Getting Past You and Me to Build a More Loving Relationship
4.7 (382 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Us about?

Us (2022) is for anyone whose once-loving relationship has devolved into point-scoring and power struggles. It offers a science-based skill set, illustrated with rich and detailed examples, to help you and your partner heal your toxic individualism and your relationship. 

Who should read Us?

  • Couples who find themselves having the same fight over and over again
  • Partners whose disagreements turn melodramatic within minutes
  • Anyone dealing with a breach of trust in a close relationship

40
Marriage Books: Sacred Marriage by Gary L. Thomas

Sacred Marriage

Gary L. Thomas
What If God Designed Marriage to Make Us Holy More Than to Make Us Happy?
3.2 (276 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Sacred Marriage about?

Sacred Marriage (2000) is an exploration of how to bring God into your marriage. Probing the boundaries of love, it provides practical advice and spiritual wisdom to help you and your marriage transcend to a holier place.

Who should read Sacred Marriage?

  • Christian newlyweds seeking long-term marriage advice
  • Spiritual spouses struggling to find happiness in their relationship
  • Couples craving a deeper connection and higher purpose

41
Marriage Books: Sheet Music by Kevin Leman

Sheet Music

Kevin Leman
Uncovering the Secrets of Sexual Intimacy in Marriage
3.7 (32 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Sheet Music about?

Sheet Music (2002) helps Christian couples unlock the secrets to marital bliss. It will have you and your spouse dancing and laughing, as you master the art of harmonizing your sex life.

Who should read Sheet Music?

  • Love maestros in training
  • Intimacy virtuosos-in-progress
  • Faith-driven couples

42
Marriage Books: The Love Prescription by John Gottman & Julie Schwartz Gottman

The Love Prescription

John Gottman & Julie Schwartz Gottman
Seven Days to More Intimacy, Connection, and Joy
4.6 (299 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Love Prescription about?

The Love Prescription (2022) is a practical guide to creating more intimacy and connection in romantic relationships. Based on 40 years of research, the authors offer simple actionable advice that will help couples in any phase of their relationship.

Who should read The Love Prescription?

  • Busy people struggling to find time for their relationship
  • Couples who feel the spark has gone
  • Anyone who wants to know how to make love last

43
Marriage Books: Marry Him by Lori Gottlieb

Marry Him

Lori Gottlieb
The Case for Settling for Mr. Good Enough
4.5 (49 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Marry Him about?

Marry Him (2011) is an honest, open and humorous quest for what it means to find the perfect man. It confronts common barriers to finding a partner, like chasing sparks over stability and the never-ending checklist of ideal qualities, and makes a case for rethinking what is important in a partner, drawing on scientific wisdom and often hilarious personal anecdotes along the way.

Who should read Marry Him?

  • Women who are still looking for the perfect man
  • Students of love and what it means to have a fulfilling relationship
  • Anyone interested in women's personal journeys and discoveries

44
Marriage Books: Should I Stay Or Should I Go by Ramani Durvasula

Should I Stay Or Should I Go

Ramani Durvasula
Surviving A Relationship with a Narcissist
4.1 (70 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Should I Stay Or Should I Go about?

Should I Stay Or Should I Go (2015) is a comprehensive survival guide for those in a relationship with a narcissist. Dr. Ramani breaks down what narcissism is, highlights the red flags to look out for, and offers two concrete roadmaps – one for deciding to stay, and one for deciding to go. 

Who should read Should I Stay Or Should I Go?

  • Anyone not feeling seen, heard, or respected by a partner
  • People dealing with a narcissistic parent, friend, or colleague
  • Those struggling to decide whether they should stay in or leave a relationship

45
Marriage Books: The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Families by Stephen R. Covey

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Families

Stephen R. Covey
4.5 (471 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Families about?

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Families (1997) was written by Stephen R. Covey with, as he says, “such a passion . . . because family is what I care about most.” It’s a very personal book that talks about how the author, his wife, and nine children apply each of the habits in their family life. It can also be your guide to solving the problems you face in your family as you strive, individually and together, to become more effective.

Who should read The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Families?

  • Self-improvement seekers who want to understand how effective families work
  • Couples who want to raise their family in a nurturing environment
  • Fans of The 7 Habits of Highly Successful People

46
Marriage Books: The Five Core Conversations for Couples by David Bulitt and Julie Bulitt

The Five Core Conversations for Couples

David Bulitt and Julie Bulitt
Expert Advice about How to Develop: Effective Communication, a Long-Term Financial Plan, Cooperative Parenting Strategies, Mutually Satisfying Sex, and Work-Life Balance
4.3 (332 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Five Core Conversations for Couples about?

The Five Core Conversations for Couples (2020) examines the five important topics every couple should talk about. It offers expert guidance on the core facets of a relationship that can help you strengthen yours. 

Who should read The Five Core Conversations for Couples?

  • Young couples looking for relationship advice
  • Older couples wanting to fix and strengthen their marriage
  • Anyone in a relationship

47
Marriage Books: The Overthinking In Relationships Fix by Rodney Noble

The Overthinking In Relationships Fix

Rodney Noble
Toxic Thoughts That Can Destroy Your Relationship And How To Fix Them
4.3 (451 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Overthinking In Relationships Fix about?

The Overthinking In Relationships Fix (2020) is a guide to getting rid of toxic overthinking patterns that put your romantic relationships on the verge of a breakup. It offers advice and easy-to-do techniques to release your worrying thoughts and strengthen your bond with your partner.

Who should read The Overthinking In Relationships Fix?

  • Anyone in a relationship
  • Long-distance lovers
  • Those looking to overcome toxic overthinking

48
Marriage Books: Marriage Be Hard by Kevin and Melissa Fredericks

Marriage Be Hard

Kevin and Melissa Fredericks
12 Conversations to Keep You Laughing, Loving, and Learning with Your Partner
3.7 (354 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Marriage Be Hard about?

Marriage Be Hard (2022) offers advice on how to effectively communicate important topics with your partner. Chronicling the ups and downs of the authors’ own marriage, it shows how to form loving, lasting relationships.

Who should read Marriage Be Hard?

  • Married couples
  • People who want to repair their relationships
  • Anyone looking for general relationship advice

49
Marriage Books: The WEIRDest People in the World by Joseph Henrich

The WEIRDest People in the World

Joseph Henrich
How the West Became Psychologically Peculiar and Particularly Prosperous
4.1 (147 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The WEIRDest People in the World about?

The WEIRDest People in the World (2020) describes why Westerners think and behave so differently from most other people. It also explains how the policies of the Western Church in the realms of marriage and kinship have helped cultivate these odd cultural attributes, transforming the world and helping the West flourish in the process. 

Who should read The WEIRDest People in the World?

  • Anyone interested in the confluence of history, anthropology, culture, and economics
  • Westerners seeking a greater understanding of cross-cultural differences
  • Fans of experimental psychology

50
Marriage Books: Talk to Me Like I'm Someone You Love by Nancy Dreyfus

Talk to Me Like I'm Someone You Love

Nancy Dreyfus
Relationship Repair in a Flash
3.9 (361 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Talk to Me Like I'm Someone You Love about?

Talk To Me Like I’m Someone You Love (1993) is a relationship repair tool that coaches couples on how to speak to each other more genuinely.

Who should read Talk to Me Like I'm Someone You Love?

  • Couples in therapy
  • People who need relationship advice
  • Those looking for better relationship communication

51
Marriage Books: The Argument Hangover by Jocelyn Freeman and Aaron Freeman

The Argument Hangover

Jocelyn Freeman and Aaron Freeman
Empowering Couples to Fight Smarter and Overcome Communication Pitfalls
4.6 (320 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Argument Hangover about?

The Argument Hangover (2021) is your guide to constructively fighting with a romantic partner so that you both learn from the conflict and emerge from it even stronger. Through clear communication, you’ll be surprised to find how disagreements can suddenly become opportunities for growth.

Who should read The Argument Hangover?

  • Couples who feel like conflict is hurting their relationship
  • Individuals looking to learn how to be kinder to their partner
  • Aspiring relationship coaches looking for tips

52
Marriage Books: We Over Me by Khadeen & Devile Ellis

We Over Me

Khadeen & Devile Ellis
The Counterintuitive Approach to Getting Everything You Want from Your Relationship
3.8 (178 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's We Over Me about?

We Over Me (2023) is the story of the podcasting-and-influencing power couple Devale and Khadeen Ellis – in their own words. With trademark disarming honesty, the Ellises lay bare the struggles and successes that have shaped them as a couple, and share the strategies that allow them to thrive as a partnership. 

Who should read We Over Me?

  • Single people looking for love that lasts
  • Couples who’ve lost sight of each other’s needs
  • Anyone who could do with a dose of unfiltered relationship advice

53
Marriage Books: Love & Respect by Emerson Eggerichs

Love & Respect

Emerson Eggerichs
The Love She Most Desires, the Respect He Desperately Needs
3.8 (344 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Love & Respect about?

Love & Respect (2012) uses biblical scripture, the author’s experience as a marriage counselor, and insight from other relationship therapists to help couples connect. By following the principles it lays out, husbands and wives learn to show each other the kind of love and respect they both crave. In the process, conflicts get resolved and marriages become energized.

Who should read Love & Respect?

  • Married couples who want to remain happily married
  • Divorcees trying to heal
  • Engaged couples

54
Marriage Books: Love Unfu*ked by Gary John Bishop

Love Unfu*ked

Gary John Bishop
Getting Your Relationship Sh!t Together
4.3 (117 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Love Unfu*ked about?

Love Unfu*ked (2022) is a no-nonsense, in-your-face guide to identifying and fixing the one thing that’s stopping you from having a meaningful and fulfilling relationship: you. By accepting hard facts about yourself and your habits, you can begin making the changes necessary to be the best version of yourself and stop being the problem that you don’t even know you are.

Who should read Love Unfu*ked?

  • The married or committed who’ve grown miserable in their relationships
  • Perpetual daters who are wondering why things never work out
  • Anyone looking for a more meaningful and satisfying relationship

55
Marriage Books: The Good Girl's Guide to Great Sex by Sheila Wray Gregoire

The Good Girl's Guide to Great Sex

Sheila Wray Gregoire
Creating a Marriage That's Both Holy and Hot
3.8 (203 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Good Girl's Guide to Great Sex about?

The Good Girl’s Guide to Great Sex (2012) is a playbook designed to unlock enduring passion in your marriage. It blends faith, self-love, and open communication for transformative sexual satisfaction.

Who should read The Good Girl's Guide to Great Sex?

  • Sacred sexuality enthusiasts
  • Faith-guided pleasure seekers
  • Spiritual marriage counselors

56
Marriage Books: Love More, Fight Less by Gina Senarighi

Love More, Fight Less

Gina Senarighi
Communication Skills Every Couple Needs
3.9 (242 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Love More, Fight Less about?

Love More Fight Less provides straightforward directions on how to develop communication skills that will help you and your partner handle conflict. Various activities let you practice the skills, and this Blink details how to use these communication techniques in real-life situations.

Who should read Love More, Fight Less?

  • Couples that need help communicating
  • Those interested in improving their social skills and personal growth
  • Skilled communicators looking for new ways to connect in their relationships

57
Marriage Books: The Man's Guide to Women by John Gottman, Julie Schwartz Gottmann, Douglas Abrams, Rachel Carlton Abrams

The Man's Guide to Women

John Gottman, Julie Schwartz Gottmann, Douglas Abrams, Rachel Carlton Abrams
Scientifically Proven Secrets from the "Love Lab" About What Women Really Want
4.1 (243 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Man's Guide to Women about?

The Man’s Guide to Women (2016) is a comprehensive and scientifically backed look into the mind, emotions, and habits of women. Drawing on decades of research, it examines the hidden and not so hidden factors that drive women’s behavior and leave many men perplexed. Whether you’re married, dating, or just looking to better understand the women in your life, there’s always room to learn and add a little more compassion into your relationships.

Who should read The Man's Guide to Women?

  • Romance-seekers who are terrified at the thought of wooing a woman
  • Married or committed men looking to better connect with their female partner
  • Anyone who wants a healthier relationship with the women in their lives

58
Marriage Books: The Honeymoon Effect by Bruce H. Lipton

The Honeymoon Effect

Bruce H. Lipton
The Science of Creating Heaven on Earth
3.1 (67 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Honeymoon Effect about?

The Honeymoon Effect (2023) explores the possibility of maintaining the euphoric state typically experienced during the honeymoon phase of a relationship. By delving into diverse fields such as biology, quantum physics, and psychology, it sheds light on the nature of love, the role of hormones, and the power of the subconscious mind in shaping our relationships.

Who should read The Honeymoon Effect?

  • Relationship strugglers hoping to turn around negative patterns through understanding biological and psychological influences
  • Newlyweds seeking wisdom on extending their initial happiness throughout marriage
  • Psychology enthusiasts interested in exploring the intersection of psychology, biology, and quantum physics

59
Marriage Books: The ADHD Effect on Marriage by Melissa Orlov

The ADHD Effect on Marriage

Melissa Orlov
Understand and Rebuild Your Relationship in Six Steps
4.4 (182 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The ADHD Effect on Marriage about?

The ADHD Effect on Marriage (2010) sheds light on the way that Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) affects individuals and impacts established relationships. By providing insight into typical behavioral tendencies, it offers couples a framework in which to move beyond unhelpful patterns and re-establish a loving relationship.  

Who should read The ADHD Effect on Marriage?

  • People with ADHD struggling to foster a happy relationship
  • Anyone wanting to improve their relationship with their ADHD partner
  • Therapists looking to better support clients with ADHD and their partners

60
Marriage Books: The Couple's Guide to Thriving with ADHD by Melissa Orlov & Nancie Kohlenberger

The Couple's Guide to Thriving with ADHD

Melissa Orlov & Nancie Kohlenberger
Improve Trust, Intimacy, and Reliability
4.1 (53 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Couple's Guide to Thriving with ADHD about?

The Couple’s Guide to Thriving with ADHD (2014) delves into the challenges many couples face when one or both partners have undiagnosed adult ADHD. An essential guide for couples seeking to strengthen their bond and navigate the complexities of ADHD in their relationships, it emphasizes the importance of understanding ADHD symptoms and offers strategies to enhance communication, trust, and intimacy.

Who should read The Couple's Guide to Thriving with ADHD?

  • Couples seeking insight into how ADHD affects their relationship dynamics
  • Individuals diagnosed with adult ADHD aiming to improve their romantic partnerships
  • Counselors who want to expand their understanding of ADHD in intimate relationships

61
Marriage Books: Plays Well with Others by Eric Barker

Plays Well with Others

Eric Barker
The Surprising Science Behind Why Everything You Know about Relationships Is (Mostly) Wrong
4.2 (261 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Plays Well with Others about?

Plays Well with Others (2022) debunks relationship myths and offers advice on how to form and maintain strong bonds. Improve your friendships and romantic relationships, as well as your ability to resolve conflicts, forgive others, and deal with difficult people.

Who should read Plays Well with Others?

  • Professionals seeking better workplace relationships
  • Team leaders aiming for harmony and collaboration
  • All those interested in interpersonal dynamics

62
Marriage Books: Securely Attached by Eli Harwood

Securely Attached

Eli Harwood
Transform Your Attachment Patterns into Loving, Lasting Romantic Relationships
3.9 (45 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Securely Attached about?

Securely Attached (2023) is an insightful exploration into the world of attachment theory and its practical implications in everyday life. It delves into how different attachment strategies, formed during early childhood, influence the way individuals interact and bond with others throughout their lives. Offering a multitude of reflection exercises, questions, and tips, its goal is to help people recognize the attachment strategies they’re currently using and help them transition to earned secure attachment over time.

Who should read Securely Attached?

  • People in romantic relationships seeking insight into their attachment strategies
  • Parents looking for guidance on building secure attachments with their children
  • Anyone who knows or suspects they’re using insecure attachment strategies

63
Marriage Books: 13 Things Mentally Strong Couples Don't Do by Amy Morin

13 Things Mentally Strong Couples Don't Do

Amy Morin
3.8 (18 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's 13 Things Mentally Strong Couples Don't Do about?

13 Things Mentally Strong Couples Don’t Do (2023) identifies thirteen common pitfalls that couples should avoid in order to nurture healthier and more resilient relationships. It provides concrete advice for improving communication, managing conflict, and ultimately fostering stronger mental fortitude – both individually and as a team.

Who should read 13 Things Mentally Strong Couples Don't Do?

  • Couples seeking to improve their communication and resolve conflicts
  • People looking for advice on nurturing healthy, secure relationships
  • Individuals interested in building mental resilience and fortitude

Related Topics

Marriage Books
 FAQs 

What's the best Marriage book to read?

While choosing just one book about a topic is always tough, many people regard The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work as the ultimate read on Marriage.

What are the Top 10 Marriage books?

Blinkist curators have picked the following:
  • The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work by John M. Gottman and Nan Silver
  • The Art of Loving by Erich Fromm
  • Daring to Trust by David Richo
  • Marriage, a History by Stephanie Coontz
  • The Three Marriages by David Whyte
  • Unfinished Business by Anne-Marie Slaughter
  • The 5 Love Languages by Gary Chapman
  • The Science of Kissing by Sheril Kirshenbaum
  • Improving Your Relationship For Dummies by Paula Hall
  • The Truth by Neil Strauss

Who are the top Marriage book authors?

When it comes to Marriage, these are the authors who stand out as some of the most influential:
  • John M. Gottman and Nan Silver
  • Erich Fromm
  • David Richo
  • Stephanie Coontz
  • David Whyte