by Jan Wright

Created on: November 11, 2009   Last Updated: November 12, 2009

I have just begun reading relationship books. I was a bit timid at first, wondering what they might tell me that I might not know from previous experience. I wondered if their advice would be relevant to my situation. After it was recommended through a few different friends, I picked up Barbara De Angelis' book "Secrets about men every woman should know." I had planned to read this book, as well as the much acclaimed "Are you the one for me," by the same author. Barbara DeAngelis is an acclaimed relationship expert, gaining her knowledge from her degree, professional practice and mistakes that she has made, herself. This book was an easy read and was not bogged down with psychological dribble. The audience was, obviously, the ordinary person and I did appreciate this. There are too many authors who write to display their intellect. De Angelis is not one of them. There is a bit of humor in the book and the experiences of other couples make this book quite enjoyable. The book did not exhibit a "preachy" tone which I think is important when giving improvement tips. The fact that she admits to making the mistakes that she reports many women make, gives this book an authentic feel. While the book was enlightening and did affirm some of my own thoughts and experiences, I also found it a bit disappointing.

The first chapters begin with an overview of the historical and psychological differences between men and women. she discusses the roles that men and women have played throughout history and how this has shaped their thinking. DeAngelis then begins to talk about the seven mistakes that women make. I think that this is one of the most essential parts of the book. She also discusses ways to either avoid or correct the mistakes that women have been making. As a woman, you might find that you have or are making more than one of these mistakes. Many of them intertwine with each other. I must admit, I felt the need to add a few of my own. However, the list is a good starting point for self exploration. Dee Angelis encourages you to make lists of your own to understand yourself more thoroughly. There were a few questions that I might add to the list, but these lists are efficient tools to self knowledge. The quizzes and checklists throughout the book are quite helpful. And, I am not just saying that because I scored high on some of the quizzes.
The concept of "filling in the emotional blanks," mistake seven, is one that every woman should read and evaluate for herself

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