:: Book Review - The Chase

By: Carmine Pascuzzi

In 101 lessons (not all easy), Samantha Brett divulges many stories about men, sex and dating. The Sydney author of new book The Chase reveals the things that men want women to know about themselves and how a woman should combat them.

This third book by Samantha comes at a poignant time in man's relationship with woman, because the world has focused on the deceitful actions from one of the world's biggest names, Eldrick Tont Woods (better known as Tiger Woods), in having extra-marital relationships with a host of women. In fact, Tiger's wife Elin could very well read The Chase and, although it is primarily geared towards the single woman, think about Tip # 100, “The minute you suspect something is amiss, get out as fast as your high heels can carry you. Once a cheater, always a cheater.” It's the sort of thinking that resonates strongly with women across the globe.

Samantha has gone to the trouble of surveying hundreds of guys and has compiled a series of tales and theories that culminate in regular tips (mostly warnings and challenges). Samantha has had a regular blog in a Sydney newspaper, so those readers would be familiar in the pattern of her style. It's a good read with some fun stories and leading women towards a positive conclusion in finding their right man, notwithstanding the fact that it won't work out for everyone in life. It's interesting to relate aspects of the book to the old-fashioned theories we used to hear. It can come back to a simple philosophy where a “happy” woman is one who enjoys being chased and a prize scalp.

I'm surprised at Samantha's tendency to use American “conversation pieces and language”, obviously from her regular trips there. It could be a turn-off for Australian readers. Be that as it may, this “manual” comes from an engaging person who I have met several times and whose personality is utterly charming.

Samantha spoke to celebrities, psychologists, and everyday people in gathering lots of stories and reveals many facts and figures from her research - all in an attempt to give women the power to re-define their character and how to get the man of their dreams to “chase” them. If things don't go according to plan, there is always Samantha's ex Detox diet and the challenge of the “30-day No Casual Sex Program”.

One doesn't have to be a “qualified” expert to gush out people's inner feelings so it's all credit to Samantha Brett for her work in gathering the content for this book. The book is easy to read and will relate to many. Beware those acronyms too!

"The Chase" is released by Allen & Unwin and is now available.