The author of the bestselling The Surrendered Wife
theorizes that learning to receive rather than give will foster better relationships. Addressing women specifically, she builds on her earlier work by stressing that allowing a man to financially support his wife or significant other not only inspires him but makes him feel "masculine and purposeful." Doyle, who conducts intimacy workshops and has spread her message via TV appearances, also draws on many examples that detail ways to graciously receive from acquaintances, friends, colleagues—and oneself. Her recommendations include ways to say appropriate thank yous, strategies to overcome guilt that can accompany receiving, avenues to articulate what your true desires are, and ways to resist the impulse, here branded "female," to reject help in favor of doing everything alone. One of the more useful chapters describes self-care as a personal discipline. Doyle suggests doing at least three things a day for personal enjoyment, including meditating, taking a nap or having lunch with a friend. Although Doyle makes a convincing case that women have been socialized to give and often feel awkward and guilty about taking help, gifts and support from others, much of her advice could be condensed into a magazine article. Her text is overly simplistic and frequently repetitive. (Apr.)
