I Now Pronounce You Financially Fit

Frankly, I learned about the applicable laws and rules affecting my divorce after the fact. I agree when the author says men have a tendency to give up too much. I did. It's not just the money, it's how you view your worth in the relationship. She wanted out, so I thought that I was to blame. So, giving her a little more was making up for that. Now, 5 years later, and happily remarried(!), I realize now that was not the right thing to do. Reading this book would have helped me see myself more realistically, both financially and emotionally. Great Book!

“I could see that happening to me!”  That’s what I kept thinking as I read the numerous vignettes, such as the ex-husband who legally helped himself to a $200K college savings account established for their son, or the wife who enjoyed the fame she was purchasing in their small town as a generous “investor”.

These brief stories and the ongoing lighthearted tone make the book easy to read, despite the serious subject. It feels as if Friedman is sitting at your coffee table saying, “Ok, you really need to do (X), and I’ve got a funny story that shows why.”  

She also encourages people to disclose and discuss ALL financial information, rather than suspecting, worrying or being surprised.  (Speaking of disclosure: I do know the author.)

This book needs to be in the possession of every “single,” who wants to get married.  It’s a common sense guide to the world of financial matters in marriage, that will literally help you to either save your marriage, or better yet, your sanity and financial portfolio should you choose to part ways with your “one and only.” Life’s too short to be a sitting duck, please do yourself a favor and get this book pronto. Consider it valuable advice that your rich Aunt would offer you, before you decided to take the plunge and walk down the aisle.

Giving this one: 5 humongous stars.

No one wants to talk about money in romantic relationships but it is critical to be on the same page financially for a good marriage. I Now Pronounce You Financially Fit provides many real life examples of when and why those conversations are important and delivers the messages in an accessible way. While much of the book describes divorce situations, the points are good to understand and consider even if divorce is no where in the picture. Pam has done a good job of providing details while making a dry subject interesting and applicable to anyone.

My wife and I have been happily married for over thirty years... Who knew that a book like this could be so helpful for a couple like us? Pam Friedman's approach is so clear and straightforward. We had no trouble understanding the concepts she presents, and they have sparked a number of meaningful discussions and actual changes in the way we manage our affairs. If and when our kids get married, we intend to give them a copy of this book ahead of time, and we will implore them to work through it with their significant others. What a valuable gift Pam has given us!

Great points for those entering and leaving relationships and dealing with the touchy subject of personal finance.