While this struggle is felt by couples all over the country, there are ways to use this time to grow closer as a couple instead of growing apart. Reading a book on marriage together can be one of those ways. The books in this list advocate practical strategies to cultivate a stronger relationship. When authored by licensed therapists and psychologists, you’ll find interactive prompts and exercises which are common in couples’ counseling as well as insightful and relatable stories. Based on our reviews, these are the best marriage books for couples on the market today. His guide isn’t intended to discredit the very real struggles that marriages can face—he speaks to relationships experiencing poor communication, verbal abuse, unfaithfulness, addiction, mental illnesses, and more—but he brings to light simple coping mechanisms that benefit everyone involved. Price at time of publication: $16 This is a workbook, intended to be read in short, 20-minute sessions that address problems from intimacy to equality. Even if couples don’t think they’re struggling with a specific area, working through the book’s 52 chapters will increase communication and knowledge in any relationship, laying a strong foundation for future discussions. Price at time of publication: $20 Their interactive guide for these conversations is set up with fun “dates” that couples can choose to partake in, prompting open, safe discussion. With 40 years of research behind them, Dr. Gottman and Dr. Gottman’s “Eight Dates” will help any couple learn more about what makes their relationship work and what they need to change for an even stronger bond. Price at time of publication: $26 In “Healing from Infidelity,” the authors include the main causes of cheating, strategies for repairing hurt, and explanation of the need for sexual intimacy while repairing a relationship. They’re not claiming that it’s easy to bounce back from a partner cheating, but they do help readers gain control of their emotions and healing while maintaining hope for the future. Price at time of publication: $16 “The Marriage Counseling Workbook” describes each of these problems, asks questions that help couples evaluate where they need to grow, and includes an easy-to-follow eight-step exercise guide that inspires problem-solving on every level. Dr. Cook’s simple, practical steps bring her counseling expertise to your living room, no appointment necessary. Price at time of publication: $16 Her story is not only a memoir but also a how-to guide for anyone who is searching to overcome relational shame, understand their own relationship habits better, and bring intention to every relationship they have. Dr. Herman’s transparency and research background make this book an eye-opening read for anyone who picks it up. Price at time of publication: $17 Price at time of publication: $12 Learning to live with someone—even when you love them—isn’t easy, but it is necessary. The overarching goal of the book is to increase attraction and intimacy and halt disrespect, jabs, and low blow comments. Price at time of publication: $14 “Easy Marriage Counseling” puts this into practice with 52 engaging activities (complete with case studies, research, and personal stories) for couples who want to strengthen their relationships. It leads readers toward marital success with questions to help you better understand yourself and your partner. Price at time of publication: $16 In “Love Worth Making” he discusses why you need to prioritize sex in your relationship and how to reignite the flame that may not be as strong as it once was. Dr. Snyder reminds readers that it’s never “just sex,” but rather a crucial aspect of a healthy relationship. Price at time of publication: $28
Interactive prompts and exercises
If you’ve ever gone to marriage or couples’ counseling, you likely know that it often includes guided exercises. As such, many of these books are written by licensed therapists, psychologists, and other experts. These exercises will help strengthen your communication skills and, ultimately, your relationship as a whole as you work to understand and reconnect with your partner.
Relatable stories and examples
While no expert would likely recommend modeling your decisions and approaches simply based on what you see others doing from a surface level, there’s no denying that it can be reassuring to know you’re not alone in what you’re going through. When framed and presented by qualified experts, relatable stories and examples can help you navigate some of your toughest relationship challenges in an effective and productive manner.
