When Marriage Meets Reality by Tammy L. Smith, Ph.D.

We used WMMR as part of our curriculum for marriage mentoring. For many couples, the realization that there is an enemy who is actively trying to destroy their marriage was a turning point for healing, forgiveness, and restoration. This book shines light on the spiritual warfare that is at play behind the scenes.

Dr. Tammy Smith helps the reader develop a perspective centered around God’s love, growing in knowledge of Him and His word. The result is not just a healthier marriage but a deeper, closer relationship with God. In creating a toolkit for a healthy, everyday marriage, this book is a must.

The world tells us that the goal of marriage is happiness. Tammy presents the idea that God uses marriage to make us holy. This gives a fresh look at conflict in marriage.

Tammy's book brings to light the often subtle, but oh so real, schemes of the enemy to destroy our marriages. What a helpful resource for all couples at any stage of life!

My husband and I read WMMR together. It has so much rich, meaty truth! We’ve read LOTS of marriage books and sometimes feel frustrated with the lack of depth. We so appreciate the difference in Tammy’s work. Even my husband said “That’s some of the best marriage teaching we’ve ever read.”

When guys "work" on their marriage, they want practical things they can do. When Marriage Meets Reality not only provides an actual toolkit at the end, but each chapter contains its own set of "tools." The book is packed with self-reflective activities, as well as exercises that men and women can practice to overcome challenges so their marriage can thrive. Many of the surface level issues couples deal with are the result of the spiritual battle that we are all in, and Tammy does a great job of not only explaining how the battle shows up in marriage, but also providing tools to help men and women heal from wounds and protect themselves from the impact of the relentless assault.

Dr Tammy Smith unpacks truths about marriage from a perspective far different from most marriage books. She delves deeply into Biblical, spiritual, intellectual, and practical applications. The focus on each spouse's responsibility in contributing to the success of the marriage is paramount. I consider this book to be THE 101 course for every Christian marriage and is appropriate for engaged, newly married, and longtime married couples. All marriages can benefit from this inspired book!

It has been said that it is easier to fall in love than to stay in love. In today’s world, where distractions and pressures constantly pull couples apart, staying in love has never been more challenging—yet nothing is more rewarding or satisfying.

In her insightful and grace-filled book, Dr. Tammy Smith helps couples discard harmful assumptions and break free from unhealthy expectations. With wisdom rooted in truth, she guides readers to reject the lies that erode intimacy and instead embrace powerful, life-giving words and habits that strengthen the bond of marriage. Her words are both convicting and compassionate, offering a path toward deep, lasting connection. This book is a gift to every couple seeking to build a marriage that not only survives, but thrives.