Sixty Shades of Love

After publishing two historical novels, Darlene Matule felt compelled to tackle a current problem--the state of marriage in America--the always legal and often sacred joining of one man and one woman. It is no secret--life has changed drastically since 1956. She asked herself, How can I promote the amazing blessings that marriage can bring--in today's climate? What promise can I bring to college students--today? To others?
Matule's answer is Sixty Shades of Love. Her memoir reveals how she and her husband are more in love after sixty years than they were on the day they were married--despite spiritual, marital, financial, in-law, and health problems that would cause most couples to shout, ""Enough!"" Sixty Shades of Love shows millennials it is possible to find joy in a sacramental marriage. It encourages baby-boomers to give their vows another chance. It reminds seniors of the fulfillment they already have enjoyed in their own long-term commitment. Through the years, Matule found that communication, faith, determination, and the ability to adapt despite life's surprises resulted in the most precious gift a couple can ever receive--a happy marriage.
""Such a delightful and insightful book as it follows the marriage journey of Darlene and Steve Matule over sixty years of life's twists and turns (and even a few dead ends). Today, when so much emphasis is on 'the perfect wedding,' kudos to Sixty Shades of Love for validating that marriage is where joy begins when the commitment of a wife and husband is grounded in love, faith, hope, and mutual respect.""
--Judy Rogers, Author of Hot Cross Buns
Darlene Matule, a Montana native, met her husband Steve at college in Spokane, Washington. Their love story was featured in the Gonzaga Magazine recently in an article titled Dating Through the Decades. After a trip to Croatia, Matule wrote two historical novels melding the old country with Butte, Montana--Under the Gallus Frame (2005) and Framework of a Family (2012).