Love is Never Enough
by Aaron Beck

The father of cognitive psychology applies its principles to marriage. He shows how so much pain in relationships comes from simply not understanding what the other person is really saying. What we imagine they are saying is almost always worse! He offers down-to-earth, practical help that works for relationship stumbling blocks we all face.

The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work
by John Gottman Ph.D

John Gottman has researched happy couples for over 20 years to find out which communication patterns and habits of daily living create happy marriages.

Making Your Second Marriage a First-Class Success
by Doug and Naomi Moseley

Don't let the title fool you. The Moseleys have wonderful insights for all marriages. They are extremely honest about the human foibles that create difficulties in relationships and show how a happy marriage depends on personal growth.

The Good Marriage: How and Why Love Lasts
by Judith S. Wallerstein and Sandra Blakeslee

A heartwarming study of happy marriages.

The Six Pillars of Self-Esteem
by Nathaniel Branden

If you are serious about understanding self-esteem, you will love this thorough description of how it works.

Stand Up for Your Life
by Cheryl Richardson

Richardson makes complex ideas simple and offers easy exercises that increase self-knowledge and confidence. She has a warm tone that makes comforting reading. Had a hard day? Read this.