Some of you may be familiar with Linda Dillow and Lorraine Pintus and/or their book, Intimate Issues, which addresses questions Christian women ask about sexuality.  Well, they have teamed up with their husbands to write a new book, Intimacy Ignited, for Christian couples.  It is excellent.

Unlike some other books, this is not about the “mechanics” of intercourse; rather, it’s essentially about the relationship – the intimacy – of a Christian couple’s sex life.  Rooted in the Song of Solomon, the book explores a variety of tools and methods for increasing the passion and intimacy of the reader’s marriage.

This is a tricky topic to write about well, but I believe the authors have succeeded.  They are not at all prudish – there’s definitely some spice here! – but, at the same time, they are respectful and not crude.  Just enough specifics are offered to be practically useful, without offering more information than is needed.  And when examples are given that would be otherwise awkward or inappropriate, they’re left anonymous.

The authors are also sensitive to issues such as past abuse.  They gently encourage moving beyond these things to fully appreciate the healthy relationships readers are in now.  However, they do not downplay the difficulty of doing so, or the magnitude of the hurt caused by the past.

As readers, we are encouraged to build up our spouses and soothe their insecurities, to try new things, and to be a source of refuge for our mates.  We’re urged to put away petty irritations, to be romantic, and to fully surrender ownership of our physical bodies.  We’re prompted to banish selfishness, hang-ups, and baggage from past experience.

Although centered in the bedroom, this book is much, much more than that.  It really encompasses the total relationship of a married couple.  I believe that newlyweds can greatly benefit from it, but fifty-year-marrieds can probably find something of value, as well.  This would make a great wedding gift!  I highly recommend it.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from NavPress Publishers as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”