MILWAUKEE, Wis. — Time of Grace Ministry has released Newlywed: A Christian Guide for Loving Year One, a book by Pastor Mike Novotny that helps couples build a strong foundation in the first year of marriage. The book addresses common first-year marriage topics, including communication, intimacy, finances, household responsibilities, in-laws, conflict, faith, and shared expectations.
Couples often spend more than a year planning a single day. Newlywed focuses on the daily conversations, expectations, and spiritual habits that help couples grow after the ceremony. This emphasis on the everyday realities of marriage is crucial because research shows that negative communication patterns in the newlywed years predict steeper declines in marital satisfaction over time. According to a study published in the Journal of Marriage and Family, the patterns established early in marriage have long-term effects on relationship quality. The study, authored by Lavner and Bradbury (2010), highlights the importance of addressing communication and conflict early on. The full study can be found at https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1741-3737.2010.00757.x.
Data from Barna’s The State of Today’s Family Reports shows that Gen Z believes in marriage and at the same time hesitates when it comes to the value of marriage. While 81 percent say they value marriage, this response is lower than every other generation Barna surveyed for the report. This generational shift makes resources like Newlywed particularly timely, as they provide a counter-narrative that upholds the value of marriage while offering realistic support.
“Marriage is one of God’s best earthly gifts. It shows up on the first pages of the Bible in the Garden of Eden. So don’t let the culture tell you that it’s some lesser thing when it deserves to be a priority,” says Novotny.
Rather than idealizing marriage, Newlywed gives couples honest guidance for loving each other with grace, humility, and purpose in everyday life. Through practical chapters and biblical encouragement, Newlywed helps couples address real-life issues before frustration, silence, or resentment become patterns. This proactive approach is essential, as the first year often sets the tone for the entire marriage.
Novotny is discussing his book on national radio and podcast programs, including Chris Fabry Live, The Reconnect with Carmen LaBerge, The Bill Arnold Show, Faith in Culture Podcast from CBN News, American Sunrise from Real America’s Voice, GoodLife, and Author’s Corner. The book’s message is especially timely for newly married couples, engaged couples, pastors, premarital counselors, and family members looking for a meaningful wedding gift.
Readers can learn more about the book and access interview links through the Newlywed resource page at https://timeofgrace.org/. The page also includes an option to download a free chapter and order the book.
Pastor Mike Novotny serves as lead speaker for Time of Grace and is also a pastor at The CORE in Appleton, Wisconsin. He has served in full-time ministry since 2007 and has written multiple books addressing faith, suffering, relationships, and difficult questions Christians often need help discussing. He is available for interviews.
Time of Grace is a digital ministry based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Its weekly television program, radio shows, social channels, emailed devotions, and print publications reach people nearly six million times per month in multiple languages. The ministry’s relatable resources help people grow in faith, understand the Bible, and apply God’s grace to everyday life.
Book details: Title: Newlywed: A Christian Guide for Loving Year One | Author: Pastor Mike Novotny | Publisher: Straight Talk Books | Publication date: May 26, 2026 | 176 pages | ISBN: 1965694500
