the best books to read before getting married?

Boundaries in marriage by cloud and townsend

My SIL gave me her copy of The Conscious Bride Wedding Planner (http://tinyurl.com/37pwcfa). The book has questions with places to write out your answers. The questions help work through any fears or apprehension you may have going into marriage, plus some questions for both you and your fiance to answer to see if you're on the same page. She said she really liked the book and it helped her a lot.

Personally, it's not for me, but maybe it's what you're looking for.

Since you are Christians, I HIGHLY recomend Sacred Marriage by Gary Thomas. Its main point is that marriage isnt solely about making you happy, its about making you Holy. It talks about marriage being a great way to learnt o become more selfless and more like Jesus. Seriously, I think for any couple I could recommend it to, I would put it as a must read. I read it a few years ago, both my bf and I are reading it again. And I really think it might be one of those that we make a point to reread every couple years once we get married. Im a counseling student and hope to do premarital counseling myself one day, and this book will be at the top of my recomend/require list!

Also, if you feel you two fit gender stereotypes, then Love and Respect is a pretty good gender differences book (also Christian based, but not nearly as overtly so). Its not my fav, but I think for any couple that may have major gender differences, it could be very beneficial.

@ Deb, Yeah, yeah that's what I meant "Boundaries in Marriage"!LOL! Can't talk and type apparently!

"For Women Only-What you need to know about the inner lives of men" by Shaunti Feldhahn (Christian based). This book REALLY helps women understand why men do what they do so that we can better love them. It is GREAT for women whether you're getting married or not. Have your FH read "For Men Only" by the same author - you won't regret it ;-)

Lol, no prob...My parents have done a few biblestudies using the book called Sacred Marriage...may help. Also, check out Focus on the Family's website they are a Christian based ministry that has tons of good info and resources there for every phase of life.

FIREPROOF- The love dare!!! watch the movie too, its the best!!! and The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman

Here is the link the the love dare, I cant say enough about this book. It took our relationship to another level that I never thought possible. http://search.barnesandnoble.com/The-Love-Dare/Stephen-Kendrick/e/9780805448658/?itm=2&USRI=fireproof book

There are some great books mentioned ... I would add:

"A Short Guide to a Happy Marriage" along with blog.ashortguidetoahappymarriage.com

I am currently reading a Christian book "How to be a better woman, wife and mother". It is great even if you are just engaged with lots of bible verses to study. I am at work right now, but when I go home I will see who the author is.

The Five Love Languages definately is an amazing and great book. Also Fit To Be Tied by Bill Hybels and another good one is Before The Ring by William L Coleman all three are amazing and go over some stuff!

I would have to say love and respect by Dr. Emerson Eggerichs. FH and I attended one of his conferences too and it truly was amazing!

Check out these books too:

1. First Year of Marriage by Marcus and Ashley Kusi - This book will help you build a strong foundation for your marriage.

You can find it here: www.amazon.com/First-Year-Marriage-Newlyweds-Foundation-ebook/dp/B01GUU5LJS/

2. The Total Money Makeover by Dave Ramsey - This book will help you start your finances right.

You can find it here: www.amazon.com/Total-Money-Makeover-Classic-Financial-ebook/dp/B00DNBE8P6/

3. Question Behind the Question - This book will help you with personal accountability.

You can find it here: www.amazon.com/QBQ-Question-Behind-Practicing-Accountability-ebook/dp/B000OIZUQW/

I hope this helps.