Book excerpt: "Own that Guy in 60 days" is quite unlike any of the dating self-help books currently on the market. It offers a fresh new perspective on the age old problem of dating. Rather than being written by "experts by training" who shroud their advice in complex dating and psychological theories, Blake Lavak has written an informative book from the unique position of an "expert by experience." This subtle change in author position, results in a potent and compelling book which is based on his own dating experiences, observations and interpretations. Blake captures the attention of the reader from the start, by writing in an honest, open and humorous way about his dating experiences and observations. He presents a book which is thought provoking, stimulating and motivating. He shares the dating strategies and methods which have been tried and tested by women throughout the ages and brings them to life through four women he considers to be skilled at the dating game. The book challenges prevailing dating advice, which suggests that women take a passive, rather than active, approach to dating. In his book, Blake directly addresses the modern day women's basic confusion which arises from mixed social messages regarding feminism and masculinity. Modern women are encouraged to be masculine in business which equates to being bold, brave and direct, and feminine in their romantic life which equates to being passive, docile, amenable and patient. Blake empowers women to have the confidence to use all of their strengths through interactions containing both feminine and masculine traits, to ultimately get and keep the man of their dreams. In a novel approach, Blake presents both the successes and misfortunes associated with employing the dating techniques he describes. This allows the reader to decide for themselves how they may adapt and employ the techniques. Blake suggests that women who are successful are bold, but that they are simultaneously subtle and thoughtful in how they do it. Some of the techniques Blake describes may appear shocking and provocative, but the psychological and emotional impact they have on men are real, powerful and long lasting. If practiced, the principles contained within his book will encourage you to proactively engage and connect with the dating process differently. If you are unsatisfied with your current dating experiences and achievements, and want to have a dating experience which ends up with the results you want this is the book for you. Dr Imara Hurlingham April 2014