What is your most recent book? Tell us a bit about it.
My first book is Divorce-Proof Your Marriage Before You Say “I Do” – Seven Essential Conversations
This down to earth, easy-to-read handbook gives readers the keys to effective communication between lovers. If you are currently in, approaching, recovering from, or just considering a committed relationship – be sure to read this book! It will not only save years of frustration and heartache; but just might help you achieve true peace and happiness in your love life.
Tell us something about yourself.
I grew up in a simple, loving, blue collar family outside a small farm town in rural Pennsylvania, on the shores of Lake Erie. Being somewhat isolated (her closest playmate lived a mile away), I found companionship in books very early in life.
Eager to leave rural life behind, I left for the University of Pittsburgh on her 18th birthday and never looked back. I graduated from Pitt at age 20 with a double major in psychology and economics,and a minor in math. I was an Air Force officer during the Vietnam War, and then worked in various corporate human resource positions before earning a Master’s in Counseling and later, a Doctorate in Psychology. I’ve been in private practice as a psychologist for over 25 years in the Philadelphia area suburbs.
How did you know you wanted to be a writer? How did you get started?
Actually, I’ve never really enjoyed writing. In fact, in college, I always tried to avoid the courses that required a lot of writing! But I was inspired to write this book by the many clients I’ve worked with – countless individuals who are intelligent, sensitive, decent people, and yet they suffer troubled marriages. I saw so many of the same mistakes being repeated over and over and found myself thinking, “why didn’t they discuss these things before marriage. ”I finally decided, “I need to write a book!”
If you were doing it all over again, what would you do differently?
I would change the title to simply: “Before You Say ‘I Do’ – Seven Essential Conversations. ”I’ve found that when people are thinking about getting married, they don’t want to see the “D” word – in spite of the fact that half of all marriages end up there – it’s not going to happen to THEM!
What types of books do you like to read? Who are your favorite authors?
I like biographies and memoirs, history, historical novels, holistic and integrative health, and a good mystery. Leon Uris to John Grisham to Steig Larsson.
What is the best advice you could give other writers about writing or publishing?
If you know your subject, or have a story to tell – just tell it. I made a list of all the points I wanted to make in the book. The list became an outline, then a more detailed outline, and finally prose. I tend to write the way I talk – as if the reader were a client sitting in my office.
Who is the perfect reader for your book?
The title really addresses that – people who are considering marriage. But mothers and grandmothers are also buying the book to give to their daughters/granddaughters. It’s written definitely for both sexes, but I think women are more inclined to pick up books on marriage.
Where can readers learn more about you and your book?
www.drleebowers.com and Amazon.com
Reviews:
“Dr. Bowers’ book is essential for anyone contemplating a committed relationship.” – M.D., Nurse
“This is a must-read for those who are getting married as well as marriage and Family Practitioners.” – Rev. Rita Berkowitz
“…Dr. Bowers’ book will allow you to develop a significantly more meaningful, lasting and productive agreement with your partner; a roadmap to success rather than a legal document dictating your escape plan.” – Peter Caltigirone, Esq.
“In 25 years of practicing family law, I’ve longed for this book… It’s never too late to enrich your understanding of your partner, your relationship and yourself. Dr. Bowers gives us the perfect primer on marriage.” – Amy P. DeShong, Esq., American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers
“Potentially life-changing! A comprehensive look at issues that can strengthen your relationship. Dr. Bowers’ insights light the way to love and happiness.” – Prof. Mitch Goldfarb, College of Health Sciences, West Chester University
