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Waiting and Dating: A Sensible Guide to a Fulfilling Love Relationship
DON’T kiss dating goodbye—there is a much better way!
Dr. Myles Munroe’s guide to waiting and dating offers sound and humorous advice on dating that will help believers prepare for a long and happy marriage.
In an age where culture’s views on dating, courtship, and premarital romance are increasingly at odds with God’s Word, the late Myles Munroe—internationally acclaimed teacher and bestselling author—offers crystal clear wisdom and biblical truth for a satisfying love relationship.
In this user-friendly handbook to biblical dating, you will learn the importance of:
The principles in this book will help you turn what can sometimes be a stressful, uncertain time of life into a joy-filled journey. If you want to grow in the Lord and prepare for the commitment of marriage with that special someone, this book is essential, fun, and full of hope!
Dr. Myles Munroe’s guide to waiting and dating offers sound and humorous advice on dating that will help believers prepare for a long and happy marriage.
In an age where culture’s views on dating, courtship, and premarital romance are increasingly at odds with God’s Word, the late Myles Munroe—internationally acclaimed teacher and bestselling author—offers crystal clear wisdom and biblical truth for a satisfying love relationship.
In this user-friendly handbook to biblical dating, you will learn the importance of:
The principles in this book will help you turn what can sometimes be a stressful, uncertain time of life into a joy-filled journey. If you want to grow in the Lord and prepare for the commitment of marriage with that special someone, this book is essential, fun, and full of hope!
176 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2005
233 people are currently reading
2632 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
March 26, 2009
I think Myles Munroe did a great job explaining why it's so important to wait before we date. I REALLY like it a lot, I'm much more satisfied about being single & utilizing my time to focus on God as well as his kingdom work after reading his book. Time is very valuable, because we will want to please our husband/wife in addition to God after we are married. It's harder not to have an "undivided heart" when you're not single anymore. (I love that song!!) However, I don't like how he tries to appeal to the mass audience by saying that he thinks "adolescents mature at different rates, and girls usually mature faster and earlier than boys do. (That is so true!) Some children may be ready to date at the age of 13, while others may be 18 before they are ready. A person's readiness to date is largely a matter of maturity and environment." I docked 1 star simply cause I don't agree on children dating that early. Also cause he title one chapter "Friendship-Building: The Purpose of Dating." Uh, men and women can become friends and not be dating. I have male acquaintances and casual friends who I have no interest in dating...
However, I still give him 4 stars cause I think he explained the process of friendship VERY WELL, labeling & giving examples of Jesus having large number of acquaintances, many casual friendships, 9 close friendships and fellowships, and 3 intimate friendships and fellowships. 9+3=the 12 disciples. Ultimately, only Peter, John & James are Jesus' most intimate friends cause they understand Jesus' heart, interests, & desires. I also really liked his example from Adam's story in Genesis. "Before Eve came along, Adam was alone, but he was not lonely. Loneliness is a spiritual disease. Adam was alone beause he was the only one of his kind, but he was completely fulfilled as a person. In tending the garden he had meaningful work to do...He was preoccupied with doing what God had told him to do that he sensed no need for a mate. Apparently, the thought never entered his head. Providing a mate for Adam was God's idea, Adam was completely self-fulfilled; he was ready for a mate when he did not need one." (P. 17)
Favorite Quote: "Friendship is not a gift, but is the result of hard work. Christ-like character is not built overnight. It comes only through committed effort. Friends working together to achieve these common goals will find success easier than those who try to do it alone. Mutual encouragement & accountability make a big difference in how quickly we progress toward our goal."
He also includes an assessment to find out how much Christ-like characters you have instead of what you think you have.
I didn't read the last engagement chapter cause there is no need for me to read that now.
However, I still give him 4 stars cause I think he explained the process of friendship VERY WELL, labeling & giving examples of Jesus having large number of acquaintances, many casual friendships, 9 close friendships and fellowships, and 3 intimate friendships and fellowships. 9+3=the 12 disciples. Ultimately, only Peter, John & James are Jesus' most intimate friends cause they understand Jesus' heart, interests, & desires. I also really liked his example from Adam's story in Genesis. "Before Eve came along, Adam was alone, but he was not lonely. Loneliness is a spiritual disease. Adam was alone beause he was the only one of his kind, but he was completely fulfilled as a person. In tending the garden he had meaningful work to do...He was preoccupied with doing what God had told him to do that he sensed no need for a mate. Apparently, the thought never entered his head. Providing a mate for Adam was God's idea, Adam was completely self-fulfilled; he was ready for a mate when he did not need one." (P. 17)
Favorite Quote: "Friendship is not a gift, but is the result of hard work. Christ-like character is not built overnight. It comes only through committed effort. Friends working together to achieve these common goals will find success easier than those who try to do it alone. Mutual encouragement & accountability make a big difference in how quickly we progress toward our goal."
He also includes an assessment to find out how much Christ-like characters you have instead of what you think you have.
I didn't read the last engagement chapter cause there is no need for me to read that now.
January 4, 2010
why rush if ultimately you want to please God, do it right the first time!
June 17, 2023
Out of all the people you know, out of all the friendships you develop, out of all the legitimate “possibles” before you, you choose one person with whom you wish to spend the rest of your life. This is not a flighty, haphazard, head-in-the-clouds choice, but a deliberate, sober, feet-firmly-planted-on-the-ground decision. It is reaching the place where you approach another and say with deliberate confidence, “I choose you.”
This is an amazing book. When I first started reading it, I was a bit let down as the first and second chapter were of advice I’d already heard, but the rest was very informative. Especially on the myth that God has chosen the perfect partner for you.
Here are some of my favourite excerpts from that chapter:
i. If God told this woman in a vision that she is supposed to marry John, then God has violated both her will and John’s. By telling her she is to marry John, God has violated her will to choose John, as well as John’s will to refuse. God created all of us with the freedom to choose, and He never violates that freedom.
ii. God may bring a potential mate across our path, but he does not choose that person for us. We make that choice ourselves, based on what we learn about that person and on the nature of the friendship that develops. It is certainly appropriate to ask God for wisdom in making our choice about a mate, but He will not choose for us. The choice is still ours.
iii. When it comes to finding a mate, God will give us guidance, wisdom, and direction when we ask for it. He may even bring a suitable person (or persons) across our path. What God will not do, however, is choose our mate for us. We must make that decision based on all the information we have. He may guide us, but the final choice is ours.
I really recommend Christians to read this book before they decide to enter the dating scene. I will definitely reread and annotate this in future
July 13, 2013
I really enjoyed reading the book, as a christian in today's modern world , the issues of dating and courtship have been made more complex . But myles monroe puts everything into perspective and brought out a lot of things into the light.
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July 30, 2011very insightful and practical...i am definitely going to try with God's help to apply these principles to my life..what a joy to serve God!
June 2, 2012
A friend recommend this book to me. I must say I'm impressed.
August 24, 2022
WAITING AND DATING BY the late Dr. Miles Monroe is such an amazing book. Pulling from his own experiences as a husband, father, and pastor, Dr. Monroe provides newlyweds, singles, and even couples with practical, Biblical steps that they can do to create a marriage that's centered more on their relationship and God then the material things of the world.
For me personally, this book is one that I believe every single, newlywed, and couple should read. Throughout the book, Dr. Miles Monroe goes through everything from the pre-dating period all the way up to and through the engagement period into marriage. One of the things that really stood out to me was the way in which Dr. Monroe addressed many of the contemporary issues we have in society today despite this book being published in 2004. One of my favorite quotes:
"We live in a day and age characterized by impatience and the demand for instant gratification. Few people are willing to wait anymore. Whatever we want, we want it right now." - Dr. Miles Monroe on Engagement, surrounding the story of Jacob and Rachel from the Bible.
Many of the contemporary marital issues we have as a nation and as a society in my opinion all stem from lacking the fundamental methods through which Dr. Monroe outlines in his book. Everything from finances to educational and parenting philosophy, but more importantly addressing the spiritual aspects surrounding marriage and how God sees marriage. Marriage is a beautiful thing, but it can easily become a burden when one or both parties involved haven't taken the adequate time to get to know one another and learn more about each other, their spiritual beliefs, financial income, etc....
Overall, I'd give this book a solid 5 out of 5 stars since I can't make it higher.
For me personally, this book is one that I believe every single, newlywed, and couple should read. Throughout the book, Dr. Miles Monroe goes through everything from the pre-dating period all the way up to and through the engagement period into marriage. One of the things that really stood out to me was the way in which Dr. Monroe addressed many of the contemporary issues we have in society today despite this book being published in 2004. One of my favorite quotes:
"We live in a day and age characterized by impatience and the demand for instant gratification. Few people are willing to wait anymore. Whatever we want, we want it right now." - Dr. Miles Monroe on Engagement, surrounding the story of Jacob and Rachel from the Bible.
Many of the contemporary marital issues we have as a nation and as a society in my opinion all stem from lacking the fundamental methods through which Dr. Monroe outlines in his book. Everything from finances to educational and parenting philosophy, but more importantly addressing the spiritual aspects surrounding marriage and how God sees marriage. Marriage is a beautiful thing, but it can easily become a burden when one or both parties involved haven't taken the adequate time to get to know one another and learn more about each other, their spiritual beliefs, financial income, etc....
Overall, I'd give this book a solid 5 out of 5 stars since I can't make it higher.
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July 4, 2017Insightful!
October 9, 2008
This book helps me a lot in finding the right way to start and have a relationship with my boyfriend. We keep search in the right purpose and guidance in our relationship, according to God.
Reading this book, made me get a clear purpose in what and a relationship should be, and taught me to learn more about the guidance.
I really recommend this book, for those who are in relationship, to have a Christian way in relation, not only with men and women, but mostly, with God.
Bless you!
Reading this book, made me get a clear purpose in what and a relationship should be, and taught me to learn more about the guidance.
I really recommend this book, for those who are in relationship, to have a Christian way in relation, not only with men and women, but mostly, with God.
Bless you!
February 20, 2012
This book does help give insight on how to have a very Christian relationship but at the same time I did not agree with everything that was written. For example only people who know God knows what true friendship is. I do not fully agree.
November 22, 2013
I've read many books from Myles Munroe, they are all great. He writes and such a clarity and understanding of the issues we face in today's society. Wanting and Dating doesn't disappoint. Great book. Highly recommend.
Read
February 14, 2019Children deserve to be born into a family
environment that is emotionally, spiritually, and financially
stable.
By successfully handling sexual temptation, a couple proves
their maturity, integrity, faithfulness, and self-control.
environment that is emotionally, spiritually, and financially
stable.
By successfully handling sexual temptation, a couple proves
their maturity, integrity, faithfulness, and self-control.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
July 23, 2015I have a summary. It is great! email me for a free copy!
December 31, 2023
BOOK TITLE: Waiting and Dating (A Sensible Guide to Fulfilling Love Relationship)
AUTHOR: Myles Munroe
NUMBER OF PAGES: 235
GENRE: Non-fiction
RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
REVIEW
“Waiting and Dating” is a book that is written to help anyone who wants to understand the concept of dating correctly.
Myles Munroe started by addressing what dating entails. He also brought to my notice that dating is not a scriptural concept but a social norm.
The author discussed extensively the four principles of dating readiness which tells readers the time appropriate for dating.
Healthy relationships should always begin at the spiritual and intellectual levels—the levels of purpose, motivation, interests, dreams, and personality. ~ Myles Munroe
Learning the act of being fulfilled in singleness starts from a place of contentment. He explained that only whole individuals are satisfied with being alone, and a relationship happens to be an added blessing to them.
My favourite chapter of the book is chapter two, where he explains the levels of friendship. He brought to attention that true friendship is the strongest relationship and a fundamental ingredient for every truly successful marriage.
There are four levels of friendship, and each has its characteristics that differentiate it from others. The author shared a few qualities to look out for when picking friends.
Knowledge is needed in dating as well as marriage because it serves as a curative for bad information. He also explained some finding mate myths which are not true because of the lack of scriptural grounds.
He explained how believers need to embrace righteous dating, which is a kind of dating that is acceptable In the sight of God in terms of nature, standards and principles. Also, the author pointed out some strategies to help you discern the right partner by asking a series of questions.
Engagement is a term that seems to be fading in our society. As believers, you should have an understanding from a biblical standpoint. According to the author, “Engagement is the period when the marriage covenant
is established between a man and a woman”.
The dating period is the time to determine if a marriage will work or not and not in the engagement stage. Many marriages fail because of issues that should be addressed in the engagement stage. The engagement stage is where couples face the greatest test as regards their sexual standard.
In conclusion, the author provided a room where you write down your reflections on each chapter of the book.
I highly recommend this book to your teenagers, adults, and newly single people who because of divorce or widowhood want to enter the dating scene.
AUTHOR: Myles Munroe
NUMBER OF PAGES: 235
GENRE: Non-fiction
RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
REVIEW
“Waiting and Dating” is a book that is written to help anyone who wants to understand the concept of dating correctly.
Myles Munroe started by addressing what dating entails. He also brought to my notice that dating is not a scriptural concept but a social norm.
The author discussed extensively the four principles of dating readiness which tells readers the time appropriate for dating.
Healthy relationships should always begin at the spiritual and intellectual levels—the levels of purpose, motivation, interests, dreams, and personality. ~ Myles Munroe
Learning the act of being fulfilled in singleness starts from a place of contentment. He explained that only whole individuals are satisfied with being alone, and a relationship happens to be an added blessing to them.
My favourite chapter of the book is chapter two, where he explains the levels of friendship. He brought to attention that true friendship is the strongest relationship and a fundamental ingredient for every truly successful marriage.
There are four levels of friendship, and each has its characteristics that differentiate it from others. The author shared a few qualities to look out for when picking friends.
Knowledge is needed in dating as well as marriage because it serves as a curative for bad information. He also explained some finding mate myths which are not true because of the lack of scriptural grounds.
He explained how believers need to embrace righteous dating, which is a kind of dating that is acceptable In the sight of God in terms of nature, standards and principles. Also, the author pointed out some strategies to help you discern the right partner by asking a series of questions.
Engagement is a term that seems to be fading in our society. As believers, you should have an understanding from a biblical standpoint. According to the author, “Engagement is the period when the marriage covenant
is established between a man and a woman”.
The dating period is the time to determine if a marriage will work or not and not in the engagement stage. Many marriages fail because of issues that should be addressed in the engagement stage. The engagement stage is where couples face the greatest test as regards their sexual standard.
In conclusion, the author provided a room where you write down your reflections on each chapter of the book.
I highly recommend this book to your teenagers, adults, and newly single people who because of divorce or widowhood want to enter the dating scene.
November 4, 2018
For those who are single or going into the stage of marriage, this book will be helpful. Try it. The wisdoms from this book are very valuable.
Here is the summary I learned from this book.
There are 4 stages.
Singleness : A time to learn to be independent , find your purpose and get stable intimacy with God. This is the stage to be whole by yourself & able to stand on your own feet.
Dating : This is the time where you’ll be learning about your potential partner: the traits, the habits, goals, purpose, dreams, etc. Remember, this is the time to know everything about your potential mate & be the best friends.
Engagement : This stage is considered as part of marriage. This is where the couple plan & work together for the life after wedding. The plan for kids, finance, living, education, working, everything should have been discussed, planned & executed by the end of this stage. Consider as one but no sexual intercourse.
Marriage : The final stage where couple dreamed & worked together for. The vow has been established between couple as wife & husband and they will be fully together as one.
Here is the summary I learned from this book.
There are 4 stages.
Singleness : A time to learn to be independent , find your purpose and get stable intimacy with God. This is the stage to be whole by yourself & able to stand on your own feet.
Dating : This is the time where you’ll be learning about your potential partner: the traits, the habits, goals, purpose, dreams, etc. Remember, this is the time to know everything about your potential mate & be the best friends.
Engagement : This stage is considered as part of marriage. This is where the couple plan & work together for the life after wedding. The plan for kids, finance, living, education, working, everything should have been discussed, planned & executed by the end of this stage. Consider as one but no sexual intercourse.
Marriage : The final stage where couple dreamed & worked together for. The vow has been established between couple as wife & husband and they will be fully together as one.
August 12, 2023
I wanted to read this in the next months because it’s already on my list but opened a page the other day and couldn’t put it down. It’s such a great read on navigating romantic relationships as a believer but also a great toolkit towards being a good and genuine friend. Munroe keeps it real lol, he calls you to assess the type of friend you are and the people you let into your life, standards are important as indicated through scripture. In his words, true and intimate friends look out for each other’s welfare and from there everything flows which is a prerequisite also for a good romantic relationship. There is good practical advice shared throughout. I feel like this is a great read for everyone even regardless of your relationship status. As for me, it has also definitely pinpointed ways I can become a better friend, I am blown away! It’s also short and sweet - everything condensed to the point which I’m grateful for. Well done Mr Munroe for keeping this real and scriptural! Random side note “If he won’t pray with you openly before you get married, don’t expect him to afterwards” really sent me lol, Munroe is a gem - Easily 5/5, I highly recommend!
September 9, 2025
I first read Waiting and Dating in 2021, and it truly shifted how I viewed relationships and preparation for marriage. Dr. Myles Munroe doesn’t just give rules, he shares principles that make you stop, reflect, and ask: Am I building love on purpose or just emotion?
What stood out most for me was the emphasis on wholeness before togetherness — that I must first become complete in who I am before seeking completeness in someone else. The book gave me clarity on timing, values, and the importance of discipline while waiting.
Even years later, many of the lessons still guide my mindset about love and commitment. It’s not a book about restrictions but about building wisely so love lasts.
Highly recommend it to anyone who wants to approach relationships with maturity, faith, and long-term vision.
What stood out most for me was the emphasis on wholeness before togetherness — that I must first become complete in who I am before seeking completeness in someone else. The book gave me clarity on timing, values, and the importance of discipline while waiting.
Even years later, many of the lessons still guide my mindset about love and commitment. It’s not a book about restrictions but about building wisely so love lasts.
Highly recommend it to anyone who wants to approach relationships with maturity, faith, and long-term vision.
June 13, 2019
Clear and concise guidelines on how to engage in Christian dating and courtship. I believe all Christian lovebirds should read this as well as those still single and would very much like to date in line with God's will when their appointed time comes. Myles has shown me that love shouldn't just be emotion and feelings but should be approached logically to avoid negative repercussions for failing to plan in advance. Most of the problems between couples that lead to divorce can be solved even before marriage; during courtship, by not only getting to know each other but also by planning the future as well.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 2, 2020
Book recomendation from our pastor's wife at our church. I took time to read it and focused especially on the engagement part. Upon reading, I realized how much preparation is needed for marriage. The generations before me in my family line have an unsuccesful marriages which resulted to broken families and I kept on praying that I'll be the one to break that generational curse. That's why this is really important to me.
The book helped me a lot to understand what to anticipate during the engagement season and I'm glad to write that even in our dating stage now, we are slowly going our way towards this stage.
It's a great and informative read! :)
The book helped me a lot to understand what to anticipate during the engagement season and I'm glad to write that even in our dating stage now, we are slowly going our way towards this stage.
It's a great and informative read! :)
June 8, 2020
WAITING AND DATING is a great read for all the single people out there who have lost hope in the dating and finding someone they will connect with & eventually will grow to love. I have been there: We date backward. We often start with the physical, and when we get to know the person, we realize that we wouldn't be friends with them at all.
I recommend this book to anyone who wants some solid dating advice. It is for people who live according to the word of God. So, if you're not religious, you might start rolling your eyes (somewhat) towards the end of the book. But I recommend you just power through, it is a great read.
I love this book. It is a short and a great read.
I recommend this book to anyone who wants some solid dating advice. It is for people who live according to the word of God. So, if you're not religious, you might start rolling your eyes (somewhat) towards the end of the book. But I recommend you just power through, it is a great read.
I love this book. It is a short and a great read.
April 19, 2021
Definitely worth a read. Below are some of my favourite quotes from this book:
• “Learn to be an asset first. You should be preoccupied with preparing yourself for whomever God is preparing for you.”
• “Most people are so busy looking for the one God has prepared for them that they fail to prepare themselves for that person. Don’t make that mistake. Use this time in life to prepare yourself.”
• “Solid character will reflect itself in consistent behavior, while poor character will seek to hide behind deceptive words and actions.”
• “The standards for successful dating are the same as those for successful marriage.”
• “Learn to be an asset first. You should be preoccupied with preparing yourself for whomever God is preparing for you.”
• “Most people are so busy looking for the one God has prepared for them that they fail to prepare themselves for that person. Don’t make that mistake. Use this time in life to prepare yourself.”
• “Solid character will reflect itself in consistent behavior, while poor character will seek to hide behind deceptive words and actions.”
• “The standards for successful dating are the same as those for successful marriage.”
March 13, 2022
Powerful book which every single must read
A favourite quote in this book is "Your ready for marriage when you don't have the need to " which summaries not to rush into marriage but by being patience and using your sense of choice given by God. Also carefully analyzing issues of finance,parental discipline,etc in engagement processes before marriage. "Plan your marriage before the wedding as lack of plan equates plan to fail"
A favourite quote in this book is "Your ready for marriage when you don't have the need to " which summaries not to rush into marriage but by being patience and using your sense of choice given by God. Also carefully analyzing issues of finance,parental discipline,etc in engagement processes before marriage. "Plan your marriage before the wedding as lack of plan equates plan to fail"
February 25, 2023
A practical way to prepare for dating , engagement and marriage. The author guide us how to date intentional , plan for marriage while in the engagement stage and have a wonderful marriage .
The books covers biblical examples of what dating or engagement should be. What I loved most is understand the phrases of friendship and most importantly knowing that God doesn’t choose a partner for us but he leads us on who to marry.
The books covers biblical examples of what dating or engagement should be. What I loved most is understand the phrases of friendship and most importantly knowing that God doesn’t choose a partner for us but he leads us on who to marry.
July 10, 2023
I have been dating long before I found this book. I wish I found it earlier. I know without any doubt that I would have made better choices and decisions in all those relationships.
This is a book I recommend to everyone, particularly those venturing into their first or next relationship. Although written with a lot of references to the Bible, the ideas are very relevant and applicable to people of all faiths and beliefs.
This is a book I recommend to everyone, particularly those venturing into their first or next relationship. Although written with a lot of references to the Bible, the ideas are very relevant and applicable to people of all faiths and beliefs.
July 26, 2023
It's a great approach, somewhat healthy, I'd say, 'cause it definitely doesn't rush things up nor does it overlook the important stuff nobody wants to talk about... but good luck finding another person with whom to follow these steps and principles in 2023. One might forgo dating and relationships altogether from the get-go. Not an excuse to forgo the method, just dating altogether. As in... good stuff but hardly applicable, especially when there isn't such a community around you.
February 3, 2024
Out of all the people you know, out of all the friendships you develop, out of all the legitimate “possibles” before you, you choose one person with whom you wish to spend the rest of your life. This is not a flighty, haphazard, head-in-the-clouds choice, but a deliberate, sober, feet-firmly-planted-on-the-ground decision. It is reaching the place where you approach another and say with deliberate confidence, “I choose you.”
March 4, 2020
I love how this book speaks to me: Wait and Prepare.
I am now a single woman, 20 years old. This book shows me the beauty of waiting ang seeking first His kingdom. In preparing, this book shows the dating and engagement part. I really want to use this singleness season to prepare myself to be a healthy woman in my future husband.
GREAT BOOK!
I am now a single woman, 20 years old. This book shows me the beauty of waiting ang seeking first His kingdom. In preparing, this book shows the dating and engagement part. I really want to use this singleness season to prepare myself to be a healthy woman in my future husband.
GREAT BOOK!
February 15, 2023
I discovered that i have alot of unlearning to do while reading this book. Its clear that in the modern world things have completely changed its quite confusing honestly but books such as this help with the knowledge and deep understanding of Godly dating and waiting. I will definately be reading this book a second time and third time.
January 7, 2020
Dr Myles Munroe provides a solid basis for relationships. He gives a great explanation on the order that a relationship develops from courtship to engagement and ultimately marriage. Common myths are addressed and practical tips are given to descern the right life partner.
June 5, 2022
You need this. There is so much wisdom and insight in this book that I would go back to reference it over and over again.
You need help in navigating life as a single person on issues of dating and marriage? Then this is the book for you.
Totally recommend it.
You need help in navigating life as a single person on issues of dating and marriage? Then this is the book for you.
Totally recommend it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews