Reviewed by Anne Boling for Readers' Favorite

Many years ago I was sitting in a restaurant when I saw a young couple obviously in love. They were holding hands across the table, making eye contact and smiling. Other couples appeared married, but did not show that special spark that romantic love brings. I want that special spark to last a lifetime. Unfortunately, couples become caught up in life, children, careers, etc. They lose that spark.

From the moment I picked up Making “I Do” Last A Lifetime, I knew I had found a book written by a woman with the same goals I have-- to make my marriage a romantic journey that will last a lifetime. Claire Cloninger expounds respect and honor in a marriage. If you treat your spouse like a toad, he will probably act like a toad. It is to be remembered that marriage is for better or worse, richer or poorer, and in sickness and in health. Life always brings struggles, hardships, and difficulties. We are not usually considering the difficulties before the marriage.

Most of what MS Cloninger shares is common sense, but in this culture where divorce is more normal than long marriages, the obvious must be said. You can do all the right things, but if you do not do them out of love they are worth little. Cloninger uses scripture throughout her book. Each chapter ends with quotes; my favorite was “Making love is much more than physical; it’s emotional and spiritual, too. It is a world for two alone. Small and private, yet infinite and beautiful. (A Wife). “ Making “I Do” Last A Lifetime is beautifully written in simple and easy-to-understand terms. This would make a wonderful gift for a wedding shower or a newlywed couple. This is a must read for all couples.