"Real Men Don't Text" Literary Review

Real Men Don't Text: A New Approach to Dating by Ruthie Dean
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a great reference tool for the modern woman who is conflicted in today's world of dating. Not only does it offer solid advice, but provides realistic examples that support scenarios involving the simplistic and technological communication methods, especially texting. The husband-wife duo were supportive through this learning process, and as the reader concluded the book, I personally felt as if I had became friends who have heard both the horror stories and praise tales from the dynamic Deans.

To simplify the contents of the book, the authors suggest to construct lists of what you want in a relationship, however do not follow the list to a tee. This is a concept that I think future readers will struggle with, because why would they have constructed lists to begin with? Furthermore, the list idea is neglected in order for the typical catchphrase "give every guy a chance"....except the bad ones. There were a few oxymorons that a reader, who may be a young, struggling dater, (like myself) would have had issues with while reading in her search for answers.

Overall, the context of the book is tailored to the needs of today's woman. They reinforce the idea that there are indeed good relationships to be had, however, insist on constructing them in any other manner than the simplified 140 characters known as a text message. Create a list of values that you as an individual want to keep in a relationship, regardless of who the opposite party is; don't bother with the whole "oh he'll change" concept, because it'll never happen; and finally, have a belief. Whether it is in yourself, Christian faith, or that the Cubs will make it to the World Series, have faith in something that will help support your journey into finding happiness.

I received this book from NetGalley via the Tyndale Blog Network in exchange for my honest opinion in this review.

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"Devil in the White City" Book Review

The Devil in the White City: Murder, Magic, and Madness at the Fair that Changed America by Erik Larson
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

An interesting appeal for the story of the 1893 World's Fair and account of H.H. Holmes, infamous serial killer, however, I wasn't really the fish that took the bait on this one. What I was hoping for was a tale about the construction of a spectacular event, but beyond the awe, glamour and hype of it was a dark and twisted evil underneath. I wanted a story about how a serial killer lured his victims while at the event, and I admit that's sort of what I got, but it was told differently than I wanted it to be.

Instead, I received two tales that hopped to and from each other. First, you have the story of the construction of the World's Fair, with architect Daniel Burnham, who struggles to create a masterpiece that the masses will flock to. If you see pictures from 1893 Chicago, you can tell that he succeeded in creating a glimmering "white city". Secondly, you have the story of H.H. Holmes, a young, handsome, charming physician who also happens to be the ultimate scam artist. He builds hotels, marries many a pretty lady, then also happens to kill them in gruesome ways. Throughout the book each chapter switches back and forth between the two plots, but they never intersect!

What I wish would've happened would be for Holmes to somehow be directly involved in Burnham's creation. Sure, he may have visited the World's Fair, but I wanted something more dramatic. Granted, this was non-fiction, and what the truth reveals may actually creep you out and you may never want to stay in a hotel by yourself again, but if you've read fictitious crime stories or even watched "Dexter", you'll be wanting more.

Let's see what happens when the movie version with Leonardo DiCaprio is released sometime next year. :)

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