Friends, Partners, and Lovers by: Kevin A. Thompson

The number one cause of divorce isn’t adultery or finances or disagreements. It’s apathy–a lack of intentional emotional, physical, and mental investment in the relationship. It’s forgetting that as a husband or wife you have three distinct roles: friend, partner, and lover.

With engaging stories and clear, simple language, pastor Kevin A. Thompson shows how to live out those roles. Using solid biblical principles, he helps you and your spouse grow your friendship, be supportive partners through the good times and the bad, and develop a healthy and satisfying sex life.

(excerpt from back of book)

Friends, Partners  & Lovers is written by  Pastor Kevin Thompson with the intent of passing on the  wisdom he has gathered over years of working with couples through his church. The book is laid out into 4 main sections: Introduction, friend, partner, and lover (hence the title).  True to his intent, the language is conversational and Thompson leans towards providing practical advice. Each chapter includes a section of questions at the end meant to inspire personal reflection and interaction  with the material.

Some of the material  was  interesting as it seemed to be a simplified version of concepts we covered in different counselling classes despite  Thompson's claims that he has no counselling background.  This is also apparent as many of his concepts are overarching ideas.

As a result, I feel that this book is more suited  to healthy couples looking for ideas and concepts to help strengthen their marriage but have the foundation, wisdom, and communication to look at which concepts apply best to their situation, which need modifying, and which may not be acceptable at that time.

For example, the  chapter on lovers has some great wisdom to share on the sexual side of marriage and I appreciated his insight into how each side interacts with the other. However, some of his suggestions such as the 24 hour rule is  simply impractical in families with more complicated needs such as special needs.

I do wish Thompson had brought more attention to the  limits of his book and the acceptability of couples visiting trained professionals at any point in their marriage if the should so decide.

3.5 out of 5 stars.

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc."