Party of One

Starred review from December 11, 2017
Smith, managing editor of Christianity Today, skillfully addresses singleness from the perspective of an evangelical woman. She is open and conversational as she tackles sexuality, masturbation, and sexual exploration by posing thoughtful, intelligent questions: “What if you knew that, for whatever reason, God in his infinite glory and wisdom has seen fit for you to live a single life? How would that change your day to day?” She structures her ideas and resolutions around three topics: unfulfilled promises of the marital state, such as marriage being a fix-all for problems; sex and other stumbling blocks to intimacy; and pressures to find the perfect match while dating. Smith blends serious discussion with comical asides and personal observations: “Attraction can develop over time, so it’s okay to date someone you’re not attracted to. Be content where you are, and then God will bring your spouse.” Theologically sound and emotionally reassuring, Smith’s approachable book will be of great help to young Christian women who embrace their singleness.