The Smart Stepmom: Practical Steps to Help You Thrive! offers readers an information kit and therapy session wrapped up as a purse-size book. Packed with wisdom and practical encouragement, it also serves as Bible study, counselor, and supportive friend.

Why review a book about stepmoms? By the grace of God, my husband and I have been married 27-plus years; my parents, 54. All my grandparents celebrated more than 60 years together. But I happen to be a pastor’s wife, neighbor, and friend of many who find themselves in blended families. 

These precious people are stepmoms; they have stepmoms; or they’re married to stepmoms. I’ve seen their struggles and successes. I’ve witnessed their wounds. And I understand enough to know there’s much more I don’t understand.

The authors of The Smart Stepmom recognize God’s ideal in marriage. They also recognize the importance of making the stepfamily work. What happens when your stepchildren ignore you? How do you handle the relationship with their biological mom? And what do your biological kids need as they adjust?

With insights borne of both professional and personal experience (Deal is a licensed professional counselor/ therapist and founder of Successful Stepfamiles; Petherbridge is an international speaker, author, and stepmom of two grown sons) the authors answer these common questions and more. Each chapter contains an abundance of wise, in-the-trenches applications and ends with a prayer, Scripture references, and Discussion Questions.

Like it or not, the authors say, stepparenting is a team sport. This book offers a proven game plan and specific strategies for success. Don’t tell anyone, but it makes a great read for dads and stepdads, too.

The Smart Stepmom. Read it and rejoice as God uses this power-packed product to help you achieve it.