Book Review: Love At Last Sight

Love At Last Sight:  Thirty Days to Grow and Deepen Your Closest Relationships

Authors:  Kerry and Chris Shook

This book is not primarily a book for couples, as the title might lead you to believe.  And although it is geared toward improving the relationships in your life that are important to you (i.e. friends, family, spouse), it isn’t primarily a book that requires both parties in a relationship to work through the book together.  What this book does focus on, is helping you to understand common core problems in relationships, steps you can take as an individual  within them, as well as things you can do to improve yourself, and consequently how you can be the catalyst for growth and change in your relationships.

The main premise of the book can be summed up in this statement by the authors:  “Each of my relationships has the potential to be better  the next time we’re together than it was the previous time so that the last time we see each other on this earth we’re closer than ever before.”

The authors believe that relationships are an art form, and each chapter discusses different aspects of this art that we can learn and apply.  Each chapter ends with a “challenge” or suggestion, of actions you can take to apply what you’ve learned.  The goal is to read one chapter a day for thirty days.  I think this is an ambitious goal, and perhaps a bit unrealistic, so I would suggest taking your time and not worry about cramming it all into a month.

In a world where relationships are largely superficial and all too often regarded as disposable, I think this book serves as an oasis in a dry, parched desert.  Too often we put our relationships last on our agendas, and assume we don’t have to work at them.  This is true for those of us who just don’t know any better   as well as those of us who should know better. 

   Whether you want to learn what makes for a good relationship or just need a refresher course, you can benefit from the insights in this book.

Overall I think this book was well-written, easy to read and understand.  There’s a saying that goes something like this:  “BE the change you want to see in the world.”  If you’re looking to blame your partner, friends, or family for the rifts and wounds in your relationships, this book is not for you.  But if you are willing to step up, take some risks, and do the things that are in your power to do to promote more meaningful relationships, then I heartily recommend this book to you!

(I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review)