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Engaged
This book offers topical helps to make your trip to the altar not just a waiting game but a period of rooting and maturing.
153 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1980
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Displaying 1 - 1 of 1 review
July 15, 2026
My future in-laws gave my fiancé and me this book because they read it together when they were engaged, so it was special to read something that had been meaningful to them years ago.
Overall, I think this is a solid premarital book. While it definitely shows its age in places, it offers a lot of practical wisdom that is still relevant today. The author discuss topics like recognizing unhealthy expectations, avoiding gifts with strings attached, navigating engagement and wedding planning, and having honest conversations about your future together.
Some of the examples and advice feel outdated by today's standards. For instance, there are statements that reflect the cultural views of the time, such as cautioning against marrying someone whose parents were divorced. Readers should keep the historical context in mind and be willing to separate timeless principles from dated opinions.
One of the biggest strengths of this book is that it sparked meaningful conversations between my fiancé and me. We talked through topics like whether we want children, the unique considerations of being a mixed-race couple, family expectations, and the long-term commitment we're choosing to make. Even when I didn't fully agree with everything in the book, it encouraged discussions that every engaged couple should probably have before marriage.
The only downside for me was that the later chapters became somewhat repetitive, and some points could have been presented more concisely.
I don't know that I'd call this the very best engagement book available today, but I do think it's a worthwhile read. If you can look past some of the dated references, you'll find plenty of practical advice and conversation starters that can help prepare couples for marriage.
Overall, I think this is a solid premarital book. While it definitely shows its age in places, it offers a lot of practical wisdom that is still relevant today. The author discuss topics like recognizing unhealthy expectations, avoiding gifts with strings attached, navigating engagement and wedding planning, and having honest conversations about your future together.
Some of the examples and advice feel outdated by today's standards. For instance, there are statements that reflect the cultural views of the time, such as cautioning against marrying someone whose parents were divorced. Readers should keep the historical context in mind and be willing to separate timeless principles from dated opinions.
One of the biggest strengths of this book is that it sparked meaningful conversations between my fiancé and me. We talked through topics like whether we want children, the unique considerations of being a mixed-race couple, family expectations, and the long-term commitment we're choosing to make. Even when I didn't fully agree with everything in the book, it encouraged discussions that every engaged couple should probably have before marriage.
The only downside for me was that the later chapters became somewhat repetitive, and some points could have been presented more concisely.
I don't know that I'd call this the very best engagement book available today, but I do think it's a worthwhile read. If you can look past some of the dated references, you'll find plenty of practical advice and conversation starters that can help prepare couples for marriage.
Displaying 1 - 1 of 1 review