To Catch a Man by Jeannie Heller is part non-fiction memoir and part self-help book, focusing on the world of dating and how a woman might be able to secure the man of her dreams. Heller begins with a lengthy overview of her own personal story and those who were in her sphere as she navigated the dating world following a divorce. From here, Heller moves into giving advice on what a woman should and should not do, focusing on the components of her four-date rule theory. These include instruction on how to smile, conversations that are initially off-limits, etiquette, when to exit a situation where too many other desirable women are in view, seeking out a man who may not be initially desirable, and how to evaluate and decide once in The Catbird Seat—the fourth date—among many other things.

A dear friend of mine dating in her mid-forties said that she feels like a plump Schnauzer competing in the sporting dog class and that winning "best-in-show" was never going to happen. The crossing of paths with Jeannie Heller's book To Catch a Man was almost serendipitous. We are in a time when the world has become an extremely small place due to social media and the ease of global travel, which is something of a double-edged sword. Heller's four-date format encourages women to use their natural femininity and creative psychology to pull men into the net. A lot of this will likely come across as outdated for many, but for those who have found books like The Rules to be right up their alley, this will undoubtedly invite the same. From a literary standpoint, the book is satisfactorily written and pretty easy to read. The use of stories from women besides Heller is a nice touch. The dating game is difficult, but with the help of authors like Heller, readers have plenty of help in the wings.

To Catch a Man: The Secrets to Finding Love and Everlasting Happiness is a woman’s guide to finding a man to love and who will love her. Author Jeannie Heller says that every woman has her own special charm that, properly used, will help women find the right man for them. She begins with the advice to start looking for a single man where you’re most likely to find one. Then she works through the first date, subsequent dates, and a potential wedding. Along the way, she provides advice on staying safe, overcoming discouragement, and much more. Heller offers numerous personal examples from when she was a single young woman to help make her points. Each chapter contains a recap of the most important points of that chapter.

I read To Catch a Man specifically because I am a man and wondered how well author Jeannie Heller understands men. The answer is pretty well! In many cases, the practices she advises are exactly what I wish women I’ve dated would have done but didn’t. For example, she recommends four dates before you decide whether to pursue a relationship further. She also recommends letting the man talk while you listen. My experience has been that some women immediately decide whether chemistry exists; others carry on a monologue. Neither of those practices is the best way to find a man to love you. A woman who reads Heller’s book will learn that. Naturally, no one is going to agree with all the advice in a book like this. But read the book and learn from Heller. Any woman can find useful tips about meeting, dating, and staying with a man.