A hilarious and helpful account of what it really takes, as a straight man, to keep your marriage going strong.
Choreplay is a laugh‑out‑loud, gamified guide to recognize what you've got before you lose it all. It's about putting in the effort in small ways that yield big results, like bringing your wife her morning coffee in bed, learning the names of your children's doctors and what medicines they take, exercising, protecting your gains, doing what you want, and going the f*ck to bed! This manual is part advice, part memoir, and a lot of comedy. Most of all, it's a testament to love conquering all the petty, banal strife and turning those day‑to‑day moments into the very thing that saves a marriage. Guaranteed sex for life, but also self‑worth.
Many men give plenty, but it's wiser to give well‑‑to our partners, our families, and ourselves. Jordan Carlos has mastered the art of choreplay, and you, my dude, can f*ck with it too.
This was surprising in a number of ways. I didn't know what to expect in a self-help book from a comedian, but there were some really solid lessons in here. Man-to-man, it drove some needed points home.
The author uses a lot of profanity, though, and sometimes it just seems excessive. Likewise, sometimes the humor is effortless (and genuinely funny) and sometimes it feels forced and doesn't land. Writing a book or blogging is a bit of a different art form than podcasting or performing stand-up. The comedy is a bit different too. Sometimes I found myself skimming through some stuff to get to the meat of the message.
3.5 stars rounded up. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.
Some parts are funny, some a little annoying. Some relevant, other parts not. I particular think it’s important to highlight the chapters on the often invisible mental load that mom’s carry (or whoever the stay at home parent is). I also think the executive function and self-care chapters are important (ie take care of your self and manage your own health/appts so it’s not one more think your spouse has to manage for you).
I listened to the author read this. He's funny, but also gives a shouty, Jim Carey vibe? 6 hours of that was... loud.
He's got really good advice throughout. I did have some issues with his "and then you'll get more sex!" take. He said this a lot. What if it doesn't? He does point out that one shouldn't do these things with a reward in mind, one should just FUCKING DO IT ALREADY.
I hear how little he did for so many years (He did VERY little), and it gave me some perspective about my relationship.
Choresplay is an incredibly relatable and insightful read that really hit home for me. There were so many moments where I saw my own experiences reflected in Jordan’s story, which made the book feel both personal and impactful.
What stands out most is how honestly Jordan explores the influence of his upbringing—acknowledging how it shaped him without allowing it to define his future. Instead, he takes accountability, grows from his experiences, and becomes deeply aware of how his actions affect his relationship.
The concept of “Choresplay” itself is both practical and powerful. It’s not just about helping out around the house—it’s about being intentional, proactive, and showing love through action. Jordan reframes everyday responsibilities as a form of care, almost like preventive maintenance for a healthy relationship. By learning to take better care of himself and his environment, he ultimately creates a stronger, more loving connection with his partner.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who feels stuck or disconnected in their relationship. It offers a refreshing perspective that can genuinely shift the dynamic toward more peace, understanding, and love. It’s the kind of book that has the potential to change the trajectory of how you show up for your partner.
On top of that, Jordan’s voice is engaging, authentic, and enjoyable throughout—it truly feels like he’s speaking directly to you.
I appreciate what the author is doing here - there are valuable lessons here that I will try to take away and use.. but.. the book takes far too much of a comedic angle (shock, being written by a comedian) and I feel the importance of the lessons is heavily diluted. The same lessons and teachings from a scientific angle would land more with me.. but that's just me!
Summary:
Help more around the house Work out Eat well Go to bed on time Don't always be a people pleaser Love yourself as well Don't always try to be right
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
A vulnerable mea culpa intent on making its reader learn from the author's marital misgivings. In fact, a lot of advice from this book can extend towards any relationship that has love as its foundation. Consider 'Choreplay: The Marriage-Saving Magic of Getting Your Head Out of Your Ass', a contribution to the erasure of the manosphere. The audiobook is great too.
I enjoyed this book! It ended up getting returned to the library before I could finish it. Definitely funny and a good reminder for both partners in a marriage sharing the load in life, the kids, the house etc. Some parts were very applicable and well presented! I think I'll probably come back to this book at another time.
DNF after the first chapter. Gave this book a shot after his fun breakfast club interview promoting the book. Sadly though the actual read/voice of the book is way too sporadic? Jumpy? Idk, it’s all over the place with jokes shoved in and I’m not sure where the advice comes in but I already do chores for my SO. It wasn’t for me.
Unexpectedly very funny advice book. Not too preachy but rather practical ways to bring calm into your family and relationships. I could have used this in my first marriage.
The Chore Play: The Marriage-Saving Magic of Getting Your Head Out of Your Ass by Jordan Carlos
Someone please give this man a medal. Yes, some of the points he makes are very much “duh” moments—but I’m coming at this from the wife’s point of view, and wow, does it hit home.
What he says in this book is important, and honestly, I think couples everywhere should read it. The message is clear without being preachy, the delivery is engaging, and the sprinkle of humor throughout is perfectly timed.
Eye-opening, validating, and surprisingly fun to read.