Time of Grace Ministry has released Newlywed: A Christian Guide for Loving Year One, a book by Pastor Mike Novotny that addresses the practical and spiritual challenges couples face in their first year of marriage. The book offers honest guidance on communication, intimacy, finances, household responsibilities, in-laws, conflict, faith, and shared expectations, aiming to help couples build a strong foundation before negative patterns take root.
The timing of the release reflects broader cultural shifts. According to Barna’s The State of Today’s Family Report, Gen Z values marriage but is more hesitant about its importance than previous generations. While 81 percent say they value marriage, that figure is lower than every other generation Barna surveyed. This ambivalence makes resources that reinforce marriage’s value particularly important. “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,” Novotny says.
Research supports the need for early intervention. A study published in the Journal of Marriage and Family found that negative communication patterns in the newlywed years predict steeper declines in marital satisfaction over time (Lavner & Bradbury, 2010). By focusing on grace, humility, and purpose, Newlywed aims to help couples address issues before frustration, silence, or resentment become entrenched. The book avoids idealizing marriage, instead offering practical chapters and biblical encouragement for everyday life.
Novotny is promoting the book through 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 seeking a meaningful wedding gift.
Readers can learn more about the book and access interview links through the Newlywed resource page. The page also includes an option to download a free chapter and order the book. Published by Straight Talk Books, Newlywed is a 176-page paperback released on May 26, 2026 (ISBN: 1965694500). Media assets, including cover art, an author headshot, and interview clips, are available at Mike Novotny - Newlywed press kit.
Pastor Mike Novotny serves as lead speaker for Time of Grace and is also a pastor at The CORE in Appleton, Wisconsin. He has been in full-time ministry since 2007 and has written multiple books on faith, suffering, relationships, and difficult questions. Time of Grace is a digital ministry based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, reaching people nearly six million times per month through television, radio, social media, devotions, and print publications in multiple languages.
