The Art of the Spark

A self-described RA (romantic adventurer), Zalmanek proffers up nifty ideas to ward off the relationship doldrums. From her experience in leading romance workshops and helping clients plan lavishly sexy get-aways, Zalmanek has divined 12 habits she promises will lead to a more romantic life. Each habit, such as ""Accommodate Your Beloved's Surprise Tolerance,"" is described clearly and presented alongside exercises and planning tools that allow couples to better understand each other and their personal preferences. The author has also included many anecdotes from couples she has helped, as well as quite a few personal stories of amorous adventures she's shared with her husband. These tend to focus on extravagant trips or nights on the town, and incorporate Zalmanek's more overwrought prose, such as, ""Their intimate laughter carried an assurance of eternal love sweeter than the truest love song."" For budget-minded couples, Zalmanek is less helpful, and the ideas-""An Elegant Evening at Taco Bell,"" anyone?-are cringe-worthy. Readers willing to overlook the cloying prose will find plenty of ideas for planning a night of non-spontaneous romance.