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The Unveiled Wife: Embracing Intimacy with God and Your Husband
As a young bride, Jennifer Smith couldn't wait to build her life with the man she adored. She dreamed of closeness, of being fully known and loved by her husband. But the first years of marriage were nothing like she'd imagined. Instead, they were marked by disappointment and pain, as Jennifer and her husband struggled to become physically intimate. Trapped by fear and insecurity, and feeling totally alone, Jennifer cried out to God: "What am I doing wrong? Why is this happening to us?" It was as if a veil had descended between her and her husband, and between her and God--one that kept her from experiencing the fullness of love.How did Jennifer and her husband survive the painful times? What did they do when they were tempted to call it quits? How did God miraculously step in during the darkest hour to rescue and redeem them, tearing down the veil once and for all? "The Unveiled Wife" is a real-life love story; one couple's refreshingly raw, transparent journey touching the deep places in a marriage that only God can reach. If you are feeling disappointment or even despair about your marriage, the heart-cry of this book is: "You are not alone." Discover through Jennifer's story how God can bring you through it all to a place of transformation.
256 pages, Paperback
First published March 1, 2015
103 people are currently reading
1901 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Smith
14 books203 followersBy God's grace, Jennifer Smith began a web-based ministry for wives in March 2011. She publishes weekly marriage articles on her personal blog, UnveiledWife.com, including encouragements, devotions, and prayers of the day, all geared towards empowering and encouraging wives daily. Social media is a large part of Jennifer's ministry for Unveiled Wife via Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest, where she serves a community of over 250,000 wives. Jennifer has served in ministry alongside her husband, traveling as missionaries to Zambia, Malawi, Canada, and Nicaragua. Jennifer is devoted to encouraging wives all around the world to develop Christ-centered marriages.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews
January 25, 2015
This is a book you have to read twice, at least!
The first time I was so eager to find out how everything would turn out in the end. Jennifer has written it in a way you have a hard time putting it down and go to bed.
The second time I will be reading this book, I will try to answer every question asked at the end of each chapter. I believe every reader of this book should do that, as part of becoming unveiled.
Jennifer explains very well what is means to become unveiled towards God and your husband.
I believe her book can help women heal!
She is so open about her life, her personal thoughts, her relationship with God and her husband.
Her story is encouraging : she shows us we are not alone in our struggles! I’m sure almost every woman can relate to some (or most) of the issues Jennifer is writing about.
It must have taken a lot of courage to write this story. Not only courage, faith too. Faith that God would use her testimony to touch the heart of many women in order to ‘unveil’ them so He could be glorified.
I was given an advanced copy of this book and I definitely recommend it to every woman!
The first time I was so eager to find out how everything would turn out in the end. Jennifer has written it in a way you have a hard time putting it down and go to bed.
The second time I will be reading this book, I will try to answer every question asked at the end of each chapter. I believe every reader of this book should do that, as part of becoming unveiled.
Jennifer explains very well what is means to become unveiled towards God and your husband.
I believe her book can help women heal!
She is so open about her life, her personal thoughts, her relationship with God and her husband.
Her story is encouraging : she shows us we are not alone in our struggles! I’m sure almost every woman can relate to some (or most) of the issues Jennifer is writing about.
It must have taken a lot of courage to write this story. Not only courage, faith too. Faith that God would use her testimony to touch the heart of many women in order to ‘unveil’ them so He could be glorified.
I was given an advanced copy of this book and I definitely recommend it to every woman!
August 7, 2017
Inspiring true story! So refreshing to read such an open and honest story. I enjoyed my own part in the story when I answered the questions at the end of each chapter (which brought about much needed self-introspection.) This book was highly encouraging to me and life-changing.
Here are a couple of my favorite passages:
" I finally began to understand that my faults and weaknesses would never stain the gospel, but rather they would show the gospel's power! This was God's grace!"
" In my experience, the church has been so worried about staining the image of Christ's love story, it has at times removed the power of God's amazing grace. The church has hidden beneath the facade of "everything is perfect" while parts of her body suffer in silence."
" If you are hurting, I encourage you to run to God and allow him to mend your brokenness. This means you may have to confront some of your character traits that contribute to the conflict, and it may be challenging as God asks you to change, but He will help you along the way. He is the only one capable of healing you, strengthening you, and equipping you with what you need to thrive."
Here are a couple of my favorite passages:
" I finally began to understand that my faults and weaknesses would never stain the gospel, but rather they would show the gospel's power! This was God's grace!"
" In my experience, the church has been so worried about staining the image of Christ's love story, it has at times removed the power of God's amazing grace. The church has hidden beneath the facade of "everything is perfect" while parts of her body suffer in silence."
" If you are hurting, I encourage you to run to God and allow him to mend your brokenness. This means you may have to confront some of your character traits that contribute to the conflict, and it may be challenging as God asks you to change, but He will help you along the way. He is the only one capable of healing you, strengthening you, and equipping you with what you need to thrive."
April 6, 2015
I am very disappointed by this book. It is written in decent English, not elegant or especially pleasant, that's it for the plus side. The rest... well, the rest just does not make sense!
Jennifer and Aaron got married a while ago and could not have sex together for four years. She had a severe case of vaginismus, meaning an involuntary contraction of muscles making any kind of penetration impossible and painful. That means too, no tampons no medical examination with a speculum, etc... and that amazed me : how did she reach the age of 21, when she gets married, without noticing a problem? if God against Tampaxes, too?
Anyway, she weds Aaron with very little knowledge of sexuality -and he is not much better. The two of them are amazed to notice it does not work, and just sit down and do nothing about it. Anyone else would try for a few days, and go to the nearest (or maybe one a bit farther, you don't want your neighbors to know) sexual clinic, or general clinic, and ask the doc how to fix it. Maybe a look on internet would have enabled her to think she is not the only one, and make her feel better.
No, they will wait four years before trying to find a solution! I am unfair, she talked with a nurse after a year or so, she spoke with their pastor, and once with a doctor, but she was not taken seriously. And she did not push for a solution, just let it go. The poor husband did the same and felt very guilty because he cared about pornography.
How may so much ignorance be possible? I knew vaginismus existed when I was 12, because of jokes, because when dogs begin having intercourse they cannot stop and their bodies cannot be separated (the bitch's muscles contract to keep the male's penis inside. Nature's own way to make sure pregnancies happen!), because of stories read in the papers, etc. If you are not curious and if it happens to you like a crazy surprise, can you think of waiting 4 years to see if it goes away? Just unbelievable.
The story about their marriage's frustrations is deeply connected to their impossibility to have sex. They are both unhappy and helpless.
You'll notice that the book does not give any dates, nor any details about their lives. They are "in Africa". Yes, but where? "Their intimacy got slightly better". Meaning what? If she did not explain what she felt better, no wonder no one paid too much attention to her story.
Anyway, after a couple of years, they decide to tell their neighbors, their friends, their pastor, any one close to them. Anything but medical help! no solution found, although friends and church members are praying with them and for them Not one of them thought of sending her o a medical center. God had decided it was not the right time yet.
Finally, one day, her husband thinks of the face lotion she uses and asks her to stop it, because of the parabens it contains. Bingo! they may now have sex, babies and happiness. I never heard of parabens changing your sexual life, but as Tracy wrote in her review, it does not matter whether real or psychosomatic, she is healed.
Why am I left with this irritated feeling? why can't I believe God did it? probably because any medical student could have got the same result faster and better but maybe because I feel a lot like Thomas (I know, Thomas asking to touch the wounds must be a legend, and no one is sure if there was an apostle named Thomas). And so many questions are left unanswered... What has changed in her mind since she got "unveiled"? What was she criticizing in her husband? What happened to their addiction to pornography? What made her think she was a lesbian?
I suppose, like in any fairy ale, you are better to close the book and be happy for them.
Jennifer and Aaron got married a while ago and could not have sex together for four years. She had a severe case of vaginismus, meaning an involuntary contraction of muscles making any kind of penetration impossible and painful. That means too, no tampons no medical examination with a speculum, etc... and that amazed me : how did she reach the age of 21, when she gets married, without noticing a problem? if God against Tampaxes, too?
Anyway, she weds Aaron with very little knowledge of sexuality -and he is not much better. The two of them are amazed to notice it does not work, and just sit down and do nothing about it. Anyone else would try for a few days, and go to the nearest (or maybe one a bit farther, you don't want your neighbors to know) sexual clinic, or general clinic, and ask the doc how to fix it. Maybe a look on internet would have enabled her to think she is not the only one, and make her feel better.
No, they will wait four years before trying to find a solution! I am unfair, she talked with a nurse after a year or so, she spoke with their pastor, and once with a doctor, but she was not taken seriously. And she did not push for a solution, just let it go. The poor husband did the same and felt very guilty because he cared about pornography.
How may so much ignorance be possible? I knew vaginismus existed when I was 12, because of jokes, because when dogs begin having intercourse they cannot stop and their bodies cannot be separated (the bitch's muscles contract to keep the male's penis inside. Nature's own way to make sure pregnancies happen!), because of stories read in the papers, etc. If you are not curious and if it happens to you like a crazy surprise, can you think of waiting 4 years to see if it goes away? Just unbelievable.
The story about their marriage's frustrations is deeply connected to their impossibility to have sex. They are both unhappy and helpless.
You'll notice that the book does not give any dates, nor any details about their lives. They are "in Africa". Yes, but where? "Their intimacy got slightly better". Meaning what? If she did not explain what she felt better, no wonder no one paid too much attention to her story.
Anyway, after a couple of years, they decide to tell their neighbors, their friends, their pastor, any one close to them. Anything but medical help! no solution found, although friends and church members are praying with them and for them Not one of them thought of sending her o a medical center. God had decided it was not the right time yet.
Finally, one day, her husband thinks of the face lotion she uses and asks her to stop it, because of the parabens it contains. Bingo! they may now have sex, babies and happiness. I never heard of parabens changing your sexual life, but as Tracy wrote in her review, it does not matter whether real or psychosomatic, she is healed.
Why am I left with this irritated feeling? why can't I believe God did it? probably because any medical student could have got the same result faster and better but maybe because I feel a lot like Thomas (I know, Thomas asking to touch the wounds must be a legend, and no one is sure if there was an apostle named Thomas). And so many questions are left unanswered... What has changed in her mind since she got "unveiled"? What was she criticizing in her husband? What happened to their addiction to pornography? What made her think she was a lesbian?
I suppose, like in any fairy ale, you are better to close the book and be happy for them.
February 1, 2017
Let me preface this review by saying I really respect Jennifer for putting her story out there, and I'm so glad this book has touched other wives. It's not a bad book, it just wasn't my thing. Spoilers ahead.
I really, really wanted to love this book. Sadly, Unveiled Wife gets a 2/5 from me, although I'm still majorly impressed by the intelligent and clever title. The cover seems to imply an interactive self-help/ Christian life non-fiction... in reality, the book is about her and her husband not having sex for four years because of extreme pain for her, yet ONLY SEEING A DOCTOR ONCE, and then only taking to church friends rather than just finding another doctor that can help. I don't mean to be mean, I understand that was part of her story. But I did become frustrated at the Smith's lack of emotional/ physical resource outreach.
Also, she waited a year and a half into her marriage to see that first doctor, which was hard for me to understand. In only the last twenty pages, we learn what had caused her excruciating sex pains... the parabens in her face wash. What?! I felt let down, not because of WHAT was causing her pain, but how she explained it. The end felt a bit rushed, and I still had so many questions. Maybe that was intentional, but I felt a bit like I was left hanging. If it was for personal marriage privacy, I can respect that.
I had problems investing myself in her story, because honestly, I didn't like her all that much. She was manipulative, emotional, and selfish. I give her major kudos for being so transparent with us in her mistakes as a younger woman as that's the whole point of the book, but I had trouble LIKING her, you know? I kept asking "WHY has nobody suggested doctors? Or therapy?!" You feel like she's building to this truth bomb at the end, but it's really a mostly plot-driven account that ends in her throwing away her face wash.
I do appreciate her bold honestly, and I'm so glad this book has helped other people. I finished it in one day, eager to get to the anticipated reveal at the end, and felt such a let down when I finished. The predominant feeling at the end was "that's it?" Honestly, (I'm sorry, Jennifer!) I think this book may fall in the dreaded category of so many "Christian Woman" books. It's all about inspiring you, but offers little substance. It is an easy read, but honestly, there's so many better-written options out there.
Her total transparency is inspiring, which makes it good if you want to hear her story. I hope you feel inspired the way she intended, but know what you're getting into.
I really, really wanted to love this book. Sadly, Unveiled Wife gets a 2/5 from me, although I'm still majorly impressed by the intelligent and clever title. The cover seems to imply an interactive self-help/ Christian life non-fiction... in reality, the book is about her and her husband not having sex for four years because of extreme pain for her, yet ONLY SEEING A DOCTOR ONCE, and then only taking to church friends rather than just finding another doctor that can help. I don't mean to be mean, I understand that was part of her story. But I did become frustrated at the Smith's lack of emotional/ physical resource outreach.
Also, she waited a year and a half into her marriage to see that first doctor, which was hard for me to understand. In only the last twenty pages, we learn what had caused her excruciating sex pains... the parabens in her face wash. What?! I felt let down, not because of WHAT was causing her pain, but how she explained it. The end felt a bit rushed, and I still had so many questions. Maybe that was intentional, but I felt a bit like I was left hanging. If it was for personal marriage privacy, I can respect that.
I had problems investing myself in her story, because honestly, I didn't like her all that much. She was manipulative, emotional, and selfish. I give her major kudos for being so transparent with us in her mistakes as a younger woman as that's the whole point of the book, but I had trouble LIKING her, you know? I kept asking "WHY has nobody suggested doctors? Or therapy?!" You feel like she's building to this truth bomb at the end, but it's really a mostly plot-driven account that ends in her throwing away her face wash.
I do appreciate her bold honestly, and I'm so glad this book has helped other people. I finished it in one day, eager to get to the anticipated reveal at the end, and felt such a let down when I finished. The predominant feeling at the end was "that's it?" Honestly, (I'm sorry, Jennifer!) I think this book may fall in the dreaded category of so many "Christian Woman" books. It's all about inspiring you, but offers little substance. It is an easy read, but honestly, there's so many better-written options out there.
Her total transparency is inspiring, which makes it good if you want to hear her story. I hope you feel inspired the way she intended, but know what you're getting into.
January 25, 2015
I received an advanced copy of this book to review and it has really been a blessing. Author Jennifer Smith shares the struggles of her marriage while pausing each chapter to allow you to reflect on your own struggles. The surface subject is about sex but the true story is about authentic intimacy. She reveals secrets, confesses sin, unleashes hope and unveils herself as a wife. She does all of this so that we can get to know God better as we hear her story. If you are married, preparing for marriage, or considering marriage someday - this book is for you! Read it!
January 30, 2015
Unveiled Wife is the incredibly honest and well written story of Aaron and Jennifer Smith's first 5 years of marriage. Written by Jennifer, the book takes the reader on her journey to learn how to truly become the wife God called her to be.
If you are at all familiar with the blog Unveiled Wife you are aware that 4 years into marriage the Smith's were still unable to experience intercourse due to Jennifer's severe sensitivity to parabens. This frustration was one that touched every part of the Smith's marriage and as the dissapointment of unmet expectaiont clouded Jen's thoughts and emotions her life path began to take her down a journey she never anticipated walking.
I found this book to be a sensitive balance between the author's desire to be honest about a subject that isn't spoken about often in Christian settings, and at the same time it was written in a way that I found sensitive and respectful. Smith does not simply focus on sex in this book. She writes about her life and choices prior to marriage, and how her relationship with Jesus was directly effected by unanswered prayers.
As Jen began to surrender to marriage to God she began to learn about the desires God has for wives through scripture, mentoring and sermons. Defining her desire to present herself to her husband and God as Unveiled, Jen tells her story, her convictions and what she learned.
I could not help but begin to desire to become unveiled myself. The picture painted of what that true intimacy could look like in marriage and my relationship with Jesus became clear and worth the effort.
If you are at all familiar with the blog Unveiled Wife you are aware that 4 years into marriage the Smith's were still unable to experience intercourse due to Jennifer's severe sensitivity to parabens. This frustration was one that touched every part of the Smith's marriage and as the dissapointment of unmet expectaiont clouded Jen's thoughts and emotions her life path began to take her down a journey she never anticipated walking.
I found this book to be a sensitive balance between the author's desire to be honest about a subject that isn't spoken about often in Christian settings, and at the same time it was written in a way that I found sensitive and respectful. Smith does not simply focus on sex in this book. She writes about her life and choices prior to marriage, and how her relationship with Jesus was directly effected by unanswered prayers.
As Jen began to surrender to marriage to God she began to learn about the desires God has for wives through scripture, mentoring and sermons. Defining her desire to present herself to her husband and God as Unveiled, Jen tells her story, her convictions and what she learned.
I could not help but begin to desire to become unveiled myself. The picture painted of what that true intimacy could look like in marriage and my relationship with Jesus became clear and worth the effort.
March 15, 2019
I'm sorry, but the whole premise of this book is insane. Im glad she has Jesus in her life, but it's painful to watch her struggles, when in reality, it all related back to her intense religious beliefs. If you are taught all your life that sex is evil, then of course you're going to have issues when one day sex is magically okay. The fact that face cream because the scapegoat confuses me to no end. I've listened now to several podcasts involving them and their friends, and every single episode is so sad hearing them talk about how relationships area struggle for them, because of their views. Most people this day and age know how to live with someone else, no how to get along with others, and don't need the bible to tell them how to treat each other nicely. Every single one of them wanted a divorce within the first few years, because the nuances of relationships are a shock to people who truly believe that women are less, and a gift to a man who feels entitled to his sex because God says that that's what men are owed. There is a lot of sadness with these women as they "learn their roles," and while they act fine about it, I can't help buy hear it in their voices, as they recite scripture and twist meanings so that the can be okay with the decree they were just given.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 10, 2015
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The author puts it all out there in her memoir, and it’s done in such a way that I finished it in less than 24 hours…once I could get into it. Once I did however, I couldn't put it down. This book is a candid look at her marriage and the problems that she has come across. The end of each chapter has questions for you to focus on with your own relationship or marriage. Depending on your relationship, they may or may not be pertinent.
This book truly shows you that if you just have faith, and trust in God that He can help heal a very broken marriage. However, having been through abusive relationships in the past, I need to say that if you are in an abusive relationship, get out of it, don’t hope for God to heal your partner. Don’t even walk away from it, run away as fast as you possibly can. God doesn't want his beloved creation to suffer abuse in the name of a relationship.
I truly enjoyed reading this book, and I hope that the questions in each chapter can make me take a good hard look at my own marriage and see where I am at fault as well, and where healing can help make our marriage stronger.
The author puts it all out there in her memoir, and it’s done in such a way that I finished it in less than 24 hours…once I could get into it. Once I did however, I couldn't put it down. This book is a candid look at her marriage and the problems that she has come across. The end of each chapter has questions for you to focus on with your own relationship or marriage. Depending on your relationship, they may or may not be pertinent.
This book truly shows you that if you just have faith, and trust in God that He can help heal a very broken marriage. However, having been through abusive relationships in the past, I need to say that if you are in an abusive relationship, get out of it, don’t hope for God to heal your partner. Don’t even walk away from it, run away as fast as you possibly can. God doesn't want his beloved creation to suffer abuse in the name of a relationship.
I truly enjoyed reading this book, and I hope that the questions in each chapter can make me take a good hard look at my own marriage and see where I am at fault as well, and where healing can help make our marriage stronger.
March 27, 2015
I picked this book up when it was released after reading a couple reviews on it. As a pastor I like to have books I can recommend to people when I think they will be helpful to their current situation. While this is written for women I found her story captivating and since it is written as an autobiography it was interesting to read from my male perspective.
This a story of a young woman that did almost everything she could to be prepared for marriage and becoming a wife. She looked forward to her wedding and married life as most brides do and was excited about what God had in store for them. Everything did not go as they expected.
The wedding night left them disappointed and would lead to a long journey that took many twists and turns and some good and a lot of poor advice. This is an incredible story of two people that were committed to making their marriage work and did even with challenges most of us couldn't imagine.
With such an honest look at topics like sexuality, faithfulness, relationship with God and the challenge of travel, mission work and being away from family.
This is a story many women will find encouraging and challenged. Well worth the read.
This a story of a young woman that did almost everything she could to be prepared for marriage and becoming a wife. She looked forward to her wedding and married life as most brides do and was excited about what God had in store for them. Everything did not go as they expected.
The wedding night left them disappointed and would lead to a long journey that took many twists and turns and some good and a lot of poor advice. This is an incredible story of two people that were committed to making their marriage work and did even with challenges most of us couldn't imagine.
With such an honest look at topics like sexuality, faithfulness, relationship with God and the challenge of travel, mission work and being away from family.
This is a story many women will find encouraging and challenged. Well worth the read.
September 16, 2020
Every year, I read a book on parenting and a book on marriage. I chose ‘The Unveiled Wife’ as my marital read for this year.
I fully understand that everyone has different battles, different struggles. I also fully understand that not every marriage is perfect.. well, no marriage is perfect. They say ‘the grass is greener where you water it.’ So naturally, I want to keep my grass ‘watered’, that’s why I read books on marriage (partially my form of watering?).
I was under the impression that the author would obviously open up about the ups and downs in her marriage, which she absolutely did. I would say my main complaint would be that this book was heavily focused on sexual temptation and frustration. Overall, this book would be great for couples who struggle in that area. However, that’s not something I could relate to. If I would have known that that would be the main topic, I would have passed on this book.
If you and/or your spouse struggle with pornography, sexual rejection and/or just need encouragement when it comes to intimacy, this book is for you. If not, I would suggest finding another book that might be a little more relatable to you and your specific needs.
I fully understand that everyone has different battles, different struggles. I also fully understand that not every marriage is perfect.. well, no marriage is perfect. They say ‘the grass is greener where you water it.’ So naturally, I want to keep my grass ‘watered’, that’s why I read books on marriage (partially my form of watering?).
I was under the impression that the author would obviously open up about the ups and downs in her marriage, which she absolutely did. I would say my main complaint would be that this book was heavily focused on sexual temptation and frustration. Overall, this book would be great for couples who struggle in that area. However, that’s not something I could relate to. If I would have known that that would be the main topic, I would have passed on this book.
If you and/or your spouse struggle with pornography, sexual rejection and/or just need encouragement when it comes to intimacy, this book is for you. If not, I would suggest finding another book that might be a little more relatable to you and your specific needs.
January 20, 2015
I received an advanced copy of this book. I am so privileged to have read it and will read it again.
Jennifer is so honest about the early struggles she and her husband experienced in the early years of their marriage. There were times I wanted to cry with her. There are so many feelings that she experienced that I could relate to, even if my situation was the same as hers. She bravely opens up and you see the heart change that she allowed God to do in her, and can do in you if we let Him.
Jennifer has definitely used her trial as her testimony. As I was reading, I was relieved to see that I am not the only one who wrestles with certain situations. She asks tough questions--ones that I do not think that I am brave enough to face myself yet.
I appreciate Jennifer and her husband's willingness to be raw and unveiled. This book can be an encouragement to wives because all of us have struggles and all of us have choices to make. To we become unveiled and let God do a work or not?
Thank you Jennifer for allowing God to use you and your husband for His glory.
Be blessed :)
Jennifer is so honest about the early struggles she and her husband experienced in the early years of their marriage. There were times I wanted to cry with her. There are so many feelings that she experienced that I could relate to, even if my situation was the same as hers. She bravely opens up and you see the heart change that she allowed God to do in her, and can do in you if we let Him.
Jennifer has definitely used her trial as her testimony. As I was reading, I was relieved to see that I am not the only one who wrestles with certain situations. She asks tough questions--ones that I do not think that I am brave enough to face myself yet.
I appreciate Jennifer and her husband's willingness to be raw and unveiled. This book can be an encouragement to wives because all of us have struggles and all of us have choices to make. To we become unveiled and let God do a work or not?
Thank you Jennifer for allowing God to use you and your husband for His glory.
Be blessed :)
May 18, 2015
Honestly, I was skeptical about this book. I've heard of The Unveiled Wife website, and seen tons of pins on Pinterest, but to actually sit down, and devote myself to this book was tough for me. It wasn't long, or hard to understand, but it did make you get real with yourself and your relationships with God and your husband. That's the tough part, and Jennifer walks you through it by telling you what she went through, showing you that you can overcome the rough patches of a marriage with God. It has changed my views on many different things. She includes questions at the end of the chapter to really force you to hear what she's said and apply it to your life. I would recommend this book for anyone looking to reinforce their marriage!
January 24, 2015
I found Jennifer Smith during the beginning of the end of my marriage. I related to her as a woman and she gave me hope that God could heal my Husband and that my marriage indeed was a gift from God. In her New book she gives the reader an intimate behind the scenes look at what her life was like as a new Wife with expectations that didn't live up to what she had envisioned for many years. She is Real, Honest and Forth Coming with her story.....I am so thankful for that. She shares her struggles, her love and passion and how she allowed God to change her life for the better. Jennifer is the most encouraging woman and I Love her for sharing with us her experience of unveiling.
March 2, 2015
Beautiful love story!! I thought it would take me days to read this, but it was a quick and easy read. Jennifer has written her book to read like a love story – a beautiful love triangle between herself, her husband, and God. Each chapter is short and followed by three or four questions (book club style!) to drive home the point and encourage the reader to look inside and think critically about how the story and lessons learned may apply to her own life. Highly recommend.
February 2, 2015
This book was amazing! The way Jennifer was so transparent with everything that was going on with her marriage is truly inspiring! My hope and prayer is that anyone who reads this book and is going through anything similar would be able to relate and realize that they are not alone!
March 31, 2018
Sat down and read the whole thing. Couldn't put it down.
August 28, 2017
awesome prayers for my husband and me.
February 20, 2015
The Unveiled Wife: Embracing Intimacy with God and Your Husband by Jennifer Smith is a gem of a book. I'd never heard of Jennifer before seeing this book, so I was a bit hesitant to pick it up, not knowing what to expect, but it was far above my expectations. The description so intrigued me that I just had to read it:
"As a young bride, Jennifer Smith couldn't wait to build her life with the man she adored. She dreamed of closeness, of being fully known and loved by her husband. But the first years of marriage were nothing like she'd imagined. Instead, they were marked by disappointment and pain, as Jennifer and her husband struggled to become physically intimate. Trapped by fear and insecurity, and feeling totally alone, Jennifer cried out to God: "What am I doing wrong? Why is this happening to us?" It was as if a veil had descended between her and her husband, and between her and God--one that kept her from experiencing the fullness of love.How did Jennifer and her husband survive the painful times? What did they do when they were tempted to call it quits? How did God miraculously step in during the darkest hour to rescue and redeem them, tearing down the veil once and for all? "The Unveiled Wife" is a real-life love story; one couple's refreshingly raw, transparent journey touching the deep places in a marriage that only God can reach. If you are feeling disappointment or even despair about your marriage, the heart-cry of this book is: "You are not alone." Discover through Jennifer's story how God can bring you through it all to a place of transformation."
This is probably one of the most honest books I've ever read. Jennifer doesn't shy away from any topic, no matter how sensitive. That's the biggest thing I loved about this book. So many marriage and relationship books skirt around the edges of issues rather than just addressing them directly and head on. The Unveiled Wife is written in a chatty, blog style feel with reflection questions at the end of each chapter. It was a very easy read and difficult to put down - I wanted to see how the story would end! I think every woman can relate to this book, because no one has "the perfect marriage". I highly recommend this to every Christian woman. You don't have to be teetering on the edge of divorce to glean important truths from this book! Excellent and highly recommended.
I received a copy of this book from Tyndale Blog Network in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
"As a young bride, Jennifer Smith couldn't wait to build her life with the man she adored. She dreamed of closeness, of being fully known and loved by her husband. But the first years of marriage were nothing like she'd imagined. Instead, they were marked by disappointment and pain, as Jennifer and her husband struggled to become physically intimate. Trapped by fear and insecurity, and feeling totally alone, Jennifer cried out to God: "What am I doing wrong? Why is this happening to us?" It was as if a veil had descended between her and her husband, and between her and God--one that kept her from experiencing the fullness of love.How did Jennifer and her husband survive the painful times? What did they do when they were tempted to call it quits? How did God miraculously step in during the darkest hour to rescue and redeem them, tearing down the veil once and for all? "The Unveiled Wife" is a real-life love story; one couple's refreshingly raw, transparent journey touching the deep places in a marriage that only God can reach. If you are feeling disappointment or even despair about your marriage, the heart-cry of this book is: "You are not alone." Discover through Jennifer's story how God can bring you through it all to a place of transformation."
This is probably one of the most honest books I've ever read. Jennifer doesn't shy away from any topic, no matter how sensitive. That's the biggest thing I loved about this book. So many marriage and relationship books skirt around the edges of issues rather than just addressing them directly and head on. The Unveiled Wife is written in a chatty, blog style feel with reflection questions at the end of each chapter. It was a very easy read and difficult to put down - I wanted to see how the story would end! I think every woman can relate to this book, because no one has "the perfect marriage". I highly recommend this to every Christian woman. You don't have to be teetering on the edge of divorce to glean important truths from this book! Excellent and highly recommended.
I received a copy of this book from Tyndale Blog Network in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
February 9, 2015
As a young bride, Jennifer Smith couldn't wait to build her life with the man she adored. She dreamed of closeness, of being fully known and loved by her husband. But the first years of marriage were nothing like she'd imagined. Instead, they were marked by disappointment and pain, as Jennifer and her husband struggled to become physically intimate. Trapped by fear and insecurity, and feeling totally alone, Jennifer cried out to God: "What am I doing wrong? Why is this happening to us?" It was as if a veil had descended between her and her husband, and between her and God--one that kept her from experiencing the fullness of love.How did Jennifer and her husband survive the painful times? What did they do when they were tempted to call it quits? How did God miraculously step in during the darkest hour to rescue and redeem them, tearing down the veil once and for all? "The Unveiled Wife" is a real-life love story; one couple's refreshingly raw, transparent journey touching the deep places in a marriage that only God can reach. If you are feeling disappointment or even despair about your marriage, the heart-cry of this book is: "You are not alone." Discover through Jennifer's story how God can bring you through it all to a place of transformation.
--My thoughts. I have followed the Unveiled Wife and the Husband Revolution for a long time! A huge fan! I love how Jennifer can be so open and honest. This world needs more people like them! I really enjoyed how she was so open with us in this book. Each chapter is short, with questions and thoughts for you to really think about your own story and life.
I love how they have come to the place of being unveiled, but of course nobody has "arrived". If you can catch the trailer for this book, do. You will love it. I also highly recommend her first book, Wife After God. Lovely devotions. Jenn is just amazing woman of God and lovely lady in all!!! I highly recommend her blog too!
I received an ebook from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.
--My thoughts. I have followed the Unveiled Wife and the Husband Revolution for a long time! A huge fan! I love how Jennifer can be so open and honest. This world needs more people like them! I really enjoyed how she was so open with us in this book. Each chapter is short, with questions and thoughts for you to really think about your own story and life.
I love how they have come to the place of being unveiled, but of course nobody has "arrived". If you can catch the trailer for this book, do. You will love it. I also highly recommend her first book, Wife After God. Lovely devotions. Jenn is just amazing woman of God and lovely lady in all!!! I highly recommend her blog too!
I received an ebook from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.
February 11, 2019
I lost interest in her story about 3/4 through the book. Each chapter felt the same, just set in a different location.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 28, 2015
I am a marriage blogger and recently I have read quite a few "marriage memoirs" where wives tell the story of how their marriage was terrible (for whatever reason), they struggle and God ultimately redeems and restores their marriage. Most of those marriage memoirs revolve around situations of infidelity, addiction, abandonment or unbelievers who become believers at some point. All tragic situations and I'm so glad that they are telling their stories and giving hope to others in similar difficult situations. But it's rare to hear an "ordinary" story of a marriage being saved and that is how I would characterize Jennifer Smith's story. Not ordinary in that her difficulties were less worthy to write about than those whose husbands were alcoholics for 20 years (because everyone's "hard" is "their hard") but just more relatable. So many women struggle with a marriage that isn't living up to their expectations, leading them to doubt whether they should have married their husband at all. They struggle with the day to day issues - financial issues, sexual difficulties, a lack of intimacy, not dealing with their past insecurities or family troubles, and a tendency to hide their true selves. Jennifer Smith makes herself so transparent and vulnerable in discussing all of the above. I appreciate how her focus stayed on her contributions to the marriage problems (as opposed to demeaning her husband), and she continually pointed to God as the healer for what was going wrong. Her story is well-written, and she has provided resources and discussion questions for others who wish to delve deeper in working through their own marriage struggles.
March 16, 2015
I just love getting emails every morning with prayers about how to be a better wife.
So when I was able to get the book to see what the whole story was, I was excited. I love Jennifer Smith's heart for marriage & the struggles that just come with it only because we're humans.
I ended up reading this book in one day. It's such a easy read with really insightful questions that would make this a good book for a women's Bible Study group.
The book wasn't exactly what I thought it was going to be, but I still enjoyed it. It told the story of Jennifer & her husband Aaron, the relationship starting young, two people who had expectations of what their spouses should be & keeping God focused in it all.
As everything, marriage isn't everything you THINK its going to be. I so appreciate Jennifer talking about that. We have expectations of what marriage should be, the happily ever after, & we get frustrated when its not what we feel like we deserve.
The book was mainly the issues that Jennifer & her husband experienced as they became married & ventured into those first years of marriage. The book is basically about their story, & not until the end does it seem like its more of a marriage help book for every one else, which is more of what I was expecting. I'm not saying that's a fault. It's just different from what I was going in thinking it was. & I always love to read about someone's journey & especially someone's triumph in their journey.
I still am looking forward to the ministry that Jennifer has in her life & will still open my email every morning anxious to pray along with thousands of woman who are covering their marriage in prayer.
So when I was able to get the book to see what the whole story was, I was excited. I love Jennifer Smith's heart for marriage & the struggles that just come with it only because we're humans.
I ended up reading this book in one day. It's such a easy read with really insightful questions that would make this a good book for a women's Bible Study group.
The book wasn't exactly what I thought it was going to be, but I still enjoyed it. It told the story of Jennifer & her husband Aaron, the relationship starting young, two people who had expectations of what their spouses should be & keeping God focused in it all.
As everything, marriage isn't everything you THINK its going to be. I so appreciate Jennifer talking about that. We have expectations of what marriage should be, the happily ever after, & we get frustrated when its not what we feel like we deserve.
The book was mainly the issues that Jennifer & her husband experienced as they became married & ventured into those first years of marriage. The book is basically about their story, & not until the end does it seem like its more of a marriage help book for every one else, which is more of what I was expecting. I'm not saying that's a fault. It's just different from what I was going in thinking it was. & I always love to read about someone's journey & especially someone's triumph in their journey.
I still am looking forward to the ministry that Jennifer has in her life & will still open my email every morning anxious to pray along with thousands of woman who are covering their marriage in prayer.
February 19, 2015
REVIEW
Jennifer Smith couldn't wait to be with the man she loved. She wanted to be close and loved by her husband. Marriage to begin with wasn't anything that Jennifer thought it would be. She was disappointed and filled with pain. She felt totally alone and insecure. Jennifer wanted answers from God as to what she was doing wrong? Why me? There was a veil that had become between her husband and herself. Not only that but between her and God. She couldn't experience love without having the closeness with God. What did Jennifer and her Husband do to keep from giving up on their marriage? How do you survive the pain of the terrible times in your life? How did they? When the darkest times came, God stepped in and tore down the veil once and for all. The veil was gone. This is a real life love story telling of a couple's journey into the deep places in a commitment that only God can reach. This book let's you know that you are not alone. You just have to reach out. I would recommend this book to anyone who is feeling disappointment or with the feeling of giving up, this book may help you as you travel with Jennifer during her trials and tribulations to find God and her husband again.
I was given a complimentary copy of THE UNVEILED WIFE from the author, Jennifer Smith and Tyndale Blog Net Work for my view of the book.
Jennifer Smith couldn't wait to be with the man she loved. She wanted to be close and loved by her husband. Marriage to begin with wasn't anything that Jennifer thought it would be. She was disappointed and filled with pain. She felt totally alone and insecure. Jennifer wanted answers from God as to what she was doing wrong? Why me? There was a veil that had become between her husband and herself. Not only that but between her and God. She couldn't experience love without having the closeness with God. What did Jennifer and her Husband do to keep from giving up on their marriage? How do you survive the pain of the terrible times in your life? How did they? When the darkest times came, God stepped in and tore down the veil once and for all. The veil was gone. This is a real life love story telling of a couple's journey into the deep places in a commitment that only God can reach. This book let's you know that you are not alone. You just have to reach out. I would recommend this book to anyone who is feeling disappointment or with the feeling of giving up, this book may help you as you travel with Jennifer during her trials and tribulations to find God and her husband again.
I was given a complimentary copy of THE UNVEILED WIFE from the author, Jennifer Smith and Tyndale Blog Net Work for my view of the book.
May 7, 2015
In her book, The Unveiled Wife, Jennifer Smith has aimed a flashlight into the darker reaches of Christian marriage. By throwing back the covers on previously hidden topics, she provides an outlet for other women who may have been buying into the lie of, “I’m the only one….” She courageously reveals her own struggles with insecurity, sex and hidden sins in a valiant effort to help to free other women engaged in the same bondages.
I have been married for almost 20 years, and have a successful, though hard-fought marriage. Had I had this book even 5 years ago, my load would have been lighter. Reading through this book, I found myself time and time again in Jennifer’s shoes. As a young bride, I felt let down by both God and my husband and engaged in a battle I didn’t think I’d have to fight. Jennifer successfully navigated the troubling waters and found her anchor in God’s love for her and His ideas for her marriage and life.
I highly encourage all married women, newlyweds or “old married ladies” like me to read this book through in its entirety. It has age-old truths, time tested realities that all marriages can benefit from.
I have been married for almost 20 years, and have a successful, though hard-fought marriage. Had I had this book even 5 years ago, my load would have been lighter. Reading through this book, I found myself time and time again in Jennifer’s shoes. As a young bride, I felt let down by both God and my husband and engaged in a battle I didn’t think I’d have to fight. Jennifer successfully navigated the troubling waters and found her anchor in God’s love for her and His ideas for her marriage and life.
I highly encourage all married women, newlyweds or “old married ladies” like me to read this book through in its entirety. It has age-old truths, time tested realities that all marriages can benefit from.
March 13, 2015
An Excellent Book on Experiencing Intimacy in Marriage
Jennifer Smith has bared her soul as she shares the struggles she and her husband encounter in their early years towards experiencing intimacy in their marriage. She writes "Insecurity is a stronghold the enemy has used to tempt me to sin and lure me into depression to keep me ineffective for God's Kingdom, most importantly in my relationship with my husband", I was touched by her honesty and transparency as she shared her struggles with expectations and insecurities early in her marriage, and how she came to realize only God could meet and fulfill these needs. She writes "Our marriage is fulfilled only because of Him! I suppose if everything had been perfect from the beginning, I would have had no need for God. I wouldn't have cried out to Him with the wisdom I now have. I would have missed out on getting to know God because I would still be clutching my veil." I highly recommend this book to any woman who is seeking to instill intimacy in her marriage with both her husband and God. This book is excellent, and you can also follow Jennifer Smith on social media as well!
Jennifer Smith has bared her soul as she shares the struggles she and her husband encounter in their early years towards experiencing intimacy in their marriage. She writes "Insecurity is a stronghold the enemy has used to tempt me to sin and lure me into depression to keep me ineffective for God's Kingdom, most importantly in my relationship with my husband", I was touched by her honesty and transparency as she shared her struggles with expectations and insecurities early in her marriage, and how she came to realize only God could meet and fulfill these needs. She writes "Our marriage is fulfilled only because of Him! I suppose if everything had been perfect from the beginning, I would have had no need for God. I wouldn't have cried out to Him with the wisdom I now have. I would have missed out on getting to know God because I would still be clutching my veil." I highly recommend this book to any woman who is seeking to instill intimacy in her marriage with both her husband and God. This book is excellent, and you can also follow Jennifer Smith on social media as well!
January 31, 2015
Jennifer Smith unveils her heart to her readers in Unveiled Wife. She humbles herself to be vulnerable in order to pour hope into others. Through the honest accounts of her fears, doubts, struggles, and moments of despair she wrapped her arms around me telling me, "It's ok...I know." Jennifer's testimony helped to unveil deep hurt in my heart that I had veiled even from myself. Reading this book brought me freedom and started a journey of restoration. I was blind to how my past affected my marriage today until I read Unveiled Wife. God's Grace and Healing poured out over me to increase intimacy and love in a marriage I never even realized was in need.
I hope every married woman reads this book and sees the transforming power of God in her marriage...whether she thinks she needs it or not! I hope every unmarried woman reads this so that they are prepared to enter a marriage unveiled.
I hope every married woman reads this book and sees the transforming power of God in her marriage...whether she thinks she needs it or not! I hope every unmarried woman reads this so that they are prepared to enter a marriage unveiled.
June 22, 2016
I'm not really sure how to rate this book. I read Christian books more from an anthropological/sociological standpoint because I find them interesting...This book was structured in an interesting way, with questions at the end of each chapter that would be helpful for a book or self study. I couldn't help feeling bad for Smith since it seems that she and her husband were incredibly reluctant to consult with doctors or try therapy. It seems like they could have solved their problem years earlier if they'd been more willing to consult with multiple practitioners, rather than just members of their church.
I also found her writing off her questioning of her sexuality as a side affect of a "pornography addition" pretty disturbing.
I also found her writing off her questioning of her sexuality as a side affect of a "pornography addition" pretty disturbing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 9, 2017
Do you long for deep conversation with a close friend about the struggles in marriage you were afraid to reveal? In this beautiful, intimate book Jennifer offers a safe place for women, opening her heart to reveal her journey through deepest pain in marriage, trauma during intimacy, and the unveiling of her inner soul, first to the God who knows and understands, and then to her husband.
Hope for today . . . it’s what so many women need and what everyone will find as Jennifer takes readers on a journey to a place so many thought they would ever arrive – openness and true intimacy with God and with their husbands. Highly recommended!
Hope for today . . . it’s what so many women need and what everyone will find as Jennifer takes readers on a journey to a place so many thought they would ever arrive – openness and true intimacy with God and with their husbands. Highly recommended!
January 25, 2015
Through this written testimony, Jen shares her struggles as a young wife and maturing Christian. She honestly discusses the barriers that stood between her and an intimate relationship with her husband, as well as obstacles that she allowed to hinder her relationship with God. While not every reader will relate to the larger surface issues in Jen's marriage, many will be able to relate to underlying problems. The words of this book provide hope for those struggling to truly connect with their spouse and their heavenly Father.
February 21, 2015
What a wonderful book for any women who has experienced disappointment in their marriage. I really appreciated how Jennifer was so open and honest about her struggles in her own marriage in hopes that it will help other women.
I loved how Jennifer addressed how destructive disappointments are in marriage and how her expectations nearly destroyed her own marriage. With lots of practical guidance and insight I highly recommend this book.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
I loved how Jennifer addressed how destructive disappointments are in marriage and how her expectations nearly destroyed her own marriage. With lots of practical guidance and insight I highly recommend this book.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
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