Searching for Courtship: The Smart Woman's Guide to Finding a Good Husband

Cutler ( Love Cycles: The Science of Intimacy ) here shows women how to find a husband by following ``biological sex roles'' that lead naturally to courtship. Based on her observations of the courting behavior of animals (as well as happily married women), Cutler offers a ``Code of Courtship'' and maps out a program for husband-hunting. She details the four roles she advises women to play in order to find lasting love: setting lures, formal dating, forming friendships and finally, eliciting a marriage proposal. Cutler's views often conflict with current attitudes about sex-role stereotyping. For example, women are discouraged from asking men for dates: ``Take this initiative from him and you risk either his virility or his serious pursuit of courtship.'' Also, some women may object to several techniques for attracting men, such as going alone to bars and clubs. Cutler writes that faithful adherence to her strategies will turn up Mr. Right within 15 months; although that promise seems unlikely, her practical advice on building a social life and tips for safe sex may reward the tradition-minded. Author tour. (May)