Review of Smart Love

[Estella Nelson]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Smart Love" by Vincent Fudge II.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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Is any relationship conflict-free? This was the question that was already formulated in my mind when I began to read the book SMART Love: The MANual, written by Vincent Fudge. I had already read STUPID DIVORCE, which is the prequel to this book, and was eager to learn more about the author's married life. In this book, Vincent doesn't skimp on detail. He gives a behind-the-scenes look at his married life to show how he tried to use a self-created relationship-building tool to salvage a conflicted marriage. They say when life hands you a lemon, make lemonade. But this isn't always the answer. Reading about the author's experience, I was able to see that life sometimes when gives you lemons and you should keep moving because a spoiled lemon will leave an unpleasant aftertaste even if turned into lemonade. In other words, a relationship plagued by uncontrolled negative emotions, prejudices, and traumas can only produce a false sense of peace, and at times the wisest choice is to give up trying to make things work and to let go.

I like the genuineness and authenticity of the stories captured in this book. The author writes that "being a good husband, a good father, and a good person means more than checking the boxes that fit the requirements." I appreciate this statement and find it very profound and refreshing. In the past, I have based my relationship on a list of things I thought were important to me, and not only did the other person not share my vision, but I ended up making a terrible mistake that had far-reaching consequences.

Aside from a few coarse words used in a few places, I have no qualms with this book. The author's point that a marriage should be predicated on understanding, trust, respect, empathy, compassion, and selflessness, is one I totally concur with.

I learned from this book that marriage is dynamic and constantly evolving. SMART Love is an excellent resource that I look forward to reading again and again. It is one of the books I like to discuss with my family and friends when it comes to relationship issues; I would give it 4 out of 4 stars.

I recommend this book to relationship experts, marriage pastors, organizations that offer courses on family life, couples, and anyone who values good family life. I hope everyone who picks it up appreciates it as much as I did.

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Smart Love
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