Book Description

In the book, the author puts debts under a microscope, to understand the reasons which lead couples to fall under the jaws of debts while watching. He also discusses the cause and effect relationship between financial mismanagement and marriage peace. Money issues are currently the second leading cause of divorce after infidelity. Studies show that both high level of debt and a lack of communication are the major causes for the stress and anxiety surrounding household finances. Then there is Lobola and wedding costs which are primarily the major causes of indebtedness for most African newlyweds. Instead of In-Laws giving the newlyweds a head start, they gift them a hefty Lobola price, as well as the wedding cost debt. Most newlyweds enter marriage with personal debts baggage, including the wedding costs; then add rent or bond, cars, and other essentials costs as they start life together. The first five years of marriage is the hardest, and over 20% of marriages do not survive beyond this period. Unless the couple have a sound financial plan, debts will take the center stage and a toll on the marriage relationship. Often, there is no financial support provided by the families to the couple as they start the marriage, instead, they receive well-wishes.The author identifies the driving factors for over-indebtedness in marriage, looks at the causes, and solutions which can assist the couples to manage their finances better and enjoy a peaceful marriage.Some of the topics covered in the book include: - The parents' debt gift- Whose wedding is it anyway? (Planning a cost-effective wedding)- Dealing with spousal debts prior to and during the marriage - The impact of bad debts on intimacy - Effective Family Financial Management - Financial Trouble-proof MarriageThe book is an essential tool to help couples to prepare financially prior to entering the marriage scene, set up sound financial tools to help manage their finances in marriage, as well as how to manage debts effectively to live a debt-free marriage. The author acknowledges that not all debts are bad, however, poor management thereof can lead to a stressful marriage.