Relationships aren't easy, and in the twenty-first century, they seem harder than ever. The introduction/background section of this book explains how relationships have changed around the world from World War II to the present. For example, nowadays, divorces and incidences of loneliness are more frequent. One thing that stands out in the book is the line about how people now learn new relationship skills that their parents can't show them because they didn't have them.

In most relationships, the father and mother share equal duties. The authors explain relationships in five main understandings. These five things will help the reader to have an "amazing relationship." These start with "Why you react the way you do" and end with "How to forgive each other every day." Like the title suggests, the code of the samurai is spoken about throughout. For example, in the section on the "Seduction Ritual," the authors discuss the samurai's use of the tea ceremony and tie it to the importance of rituals in relationships.

The writing is concise yet comprehensive. It gets the point quickly and easily. The authors' use of their own relationship to provide examples is a nice touch, making the book more personal. Another positive is that there are questions for the reader and their partner to answer at the end of each chapter. The exercises are a smart idea because they make the reading of the book more of a couple's activity. The authors use every inch of space in this rather short book wisely. The length is perfect because it's neither daunting nor goes over the reader's head. The text is not preachy, but it feels like the authors really do want to help their readers. Overall, this is a well-written and interesting book about not only helping but also understanding what makes relationships.

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