RECOMMENDED BOOKS

Foundational Relationship Wisdom

The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work by Dr. John Gottman
📌 Research-based and practical, this book reveals the habits of strong, lasting couples.

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Hold Me Tight by Dr. Sue Johnson

📌 Based on Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), this one’s all about building emotional security.

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The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman (My Favorite)
📌 A must-read. Learn how people express and receive love differently—and how to meet each other’s needs better.

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Attached by Amir Levine & Rachel Heller
📌 Attachment theory made super accessible. Helps explain why you love the way you do.​

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💬 Communication & Conflict

Nonviolent Communication by Marshall Rosenberg
📌 Teaches how to communicate honestly and compassionately. Great for relationships of all kinds.

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Crucial Conversations by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, et al.
📌 Learn how to have the hard conversations without burning the house down emotionally.

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Why Won’t You Apologize? by Dr. Harriet Lerner
📌 Real talk about apologies, forgiveness, and accountability.

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🧠 Emotional Intelligence & Self-Work

Emotional Intelligence by Daniel Goleman
📌 Not relationship-specific, but essential for anyone who wants to be less reactive and more connected.

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The Mastery of Love by Don Miguel Ruiz
📌 A soulful read that unpacks fear, ego, and self-love.

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Set Boundaries, Find Peace by Nedra Glover Tawwab
📌 A boundary-setting Bible—because boundaries are love, not walls.

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🔥 Confidence, Dating, and Self-Respect

Why Men Love Bitches by Sherry Argov (Another Fave)
📌 Not about being mean—it’s about standing your ground. A bold, cheeky guide to dating with self-respect, especially for women who are tired of being walked on.

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🌈 Sex, Intimacy, and Connection

Come As You Are by Emily Nagoski
📌 Science meets compassion. A powerful read for understanding sexual desire, especially for women.

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Mating in Captivity by Esther Perel
📌 Love vs. desire in long-term relationships—told with insight and a little heat.

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🌟 Bonus Picks (for when things are rocky or ending)

Too Good to Leave, Too Bad to Stay by Mira Kirshenbaum
📌 A clear-headed guide for deciding whether to stick it out or walk away.

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The Breakup Bible by Rachel Sussman
📌 A breakup recovery plan with actual steps, not just “treat yourself to wine and a bath.”