The Long-Distance Relationship Survival Guide: Secrets and Strategies from Successful Couples Who Have Gone the Distance Paperback – February 1, 2006

This book is great if you're entering or considering a long-distance relationship. After several wonderful months with my boyfriend, we became long-distance when he went back to school over six hundred and fifty miles away. The best thing this book did was keep me from pulling my hair out with frustration. It validates the roller coaster of emotions one goes through when a loved on is so far away, so instead of freaking out about my insecurities and worries, I was able to ride it out because I knew it was all normal, and would pass.This book also gave me some great ideas on keeping our relationship alive-- and deepening it!-- while we're apart. It covers the common pitfalls, cons, and even pros of LDRs as well. I wholeheartedly recommend this book! I can't say what it would do for those who have had successful LDRs already, since they probably learned through the same trial-and-error as the authors and their acquaintances, but it's a real gem for those who aren't in the know.

It was very useful at the beginning of my long-distance relationship, but it would probably need to be re-edited and updated with advice concerning current technologies. For instance the book mentions potential cost of calling abroad, and things like this, while today with video apps and chat applications on our phones it's practically free to stay connected to someone almost all the time, which changes many things for a long-distance relationship (both in a good way and in a bad way). The impact of social networks on LDR could also be addressed in an updated version.

For anyone in a current LDR and is the tiniest bit tech savvy or has a smart phone, this book is outdated. Clearly this book was published before Skype and texting was common, which makes the suggestions on using technology almost humorous. My long distance boyfriend and I were already doing all of the things suggested to keep intimacy alive, to keep each other involved in each other's lives while we are living on opposite coasts. There also seems to be a more conservative theme to this book, which is fine since it isn't overwhelming. It is nice as the authors did interview long distance couples that made it work, and those that didn't. A quick and easy read that may help bring hope back into a LDR that is experiencing some trouble. But really, the best advice they give in the entire book is communication is key.

If you are in a LDR and could use some help, this book is for you. It has some outdated information about computers and electronic communication, but you can easily fill in those blanks. The main point is that it really defines what makes a LDR successful and lists several indications that you might be in it for the wrong reasons.

I purchased this book to help me cope and survive my long distance relationship. We live in DC and after 3 yrs together, his work/school is making him move to TX. I thought this book would help with issues we would face, but instead it is written more for people who have met online and never actually lived together. I found the advice to be unrealistic and frivolous. I couldn't force myself to read the entire thing - made it only halfway through and regretted the purchase.This may work for others, but if you are in a situation like mine, this may not be the book for you.

This is THE book to get if you're struggling with an LDR (as the author references it) and want to know what you should be doing with your semi-independent life and how to stay in touch with your S.O. It gives understandable and practical advice on how often to visit, who does the traveling, and the author provides a system that you and your partner can go by. I'd recommend this book to anyone who is in an LDR.

I bought this after it was recommended on an LDR blog. My relationship was well-established "in person" before we had to transition to an LDR, but the book seems more aimed at couples who are still in the "dating" and getting-to-know-you stage when they are long-distance. Virtually no advice for international LDRs, and the communication advice is so outdated it's almost comical. I might look for a more current LDR book or stick to websites for advice.

You can't find anything better than this. Written by a couple who "went the distance" themselves and are now married, with countless stories from other couples, examples, communication tips and more. I bought this for my girlfriend (we have 800 miles between us during the school year) and I'm planning on buying another copy for myself so that we can read through it together!