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Real Men Don't Text: A New Approach to Dating

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Late-night texts. Mixed signals. Dead-end relationships.This doesn't have to be your love life.Welcome to dating in the digital world--where phone conversations followed by dinner and a movie have been replaced by last-minute texts, ambiguous relationships, and vague group hangouts.While technology makes it faster and easier to connect than ever before, it has also created confusion . . . And heartbreak.Ruthie and Michael Dean have heard the same story from thousands of women: the disappearing men, the cryptic messages, the disappointing relationships, and the false intimacy of on-screen connection.In a no-holds-barred narrative style, the husband-and-wife team chronicles their dating mishaps, hilarious attempts to find love, and many mistakes--helping women understand just what men are thinking and how to attract Mr. Right."Real Men Don't Text" offers game-changing perspectives, bringing a fresh approach to love, sex, and dating. You don't need to spend one more night staring at a phone screen. It's time to take back your love life!

240 pages, ebook

First published September 3, 2013

18 people are currently reading
316 people want to read

About the author

Ruthie Dean

5 books15 followers
Ruthie and Michael Dean grew up just down the street from one another, but not being fans of convenience, they fell in love long-distance while Ruthie lived in China and Michael lived in Germany. Now happily married, the Deans love to run, take advantage of Sunday coffee dates (without technology), and can often be spotted driving around Nashville in Michael’s classic Ford truck. You can learn more about Michael and Ruthie, and share your own stories of dating, love, and romance on Ruthie’s blog, www.ruthiedean.com, or on Twitter @MichaelDean10 or @Ruthie_Dean.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
Profile Image for Stuart.
72 reviews12 followers
January 8, 2014
Really good book. One of the best relationship books I've read, actually, even if it's written for women. The authors do a good job of going through how women think, what they are looking for, how men can be understood and interpreted in actions, and what to look for in the right guy.

Not all the advice is perfect, for instance they both come from a particular background that frames their understanding of what true men or true women are (the dig at the guy requesting video games for Christmas makes a good point, but would need to be further discussed amongst people in our growing nerd culture), but the point they are trying to make is a wise one. I also really appreciate how they are honest with the fact that women as much as men struggle with pornography nowadays, whether it's actual images or videos, or just emotional porn of daydreaming and fictional relationships; that's a sign of maturity in the authors, and a very important point that needs to be talked about more often in the church at large.

I'm glad I read this book. I'm planning on holding on to it and revisiting it over the coming months. It's inspired me to change several things in my own life to better prepare for my future, and while things like becoming debt free take so long even with a plan, I hope there will be grace for striving. And the book helped me realize several of the mistakes I've made in the past...some painfully recently...with girls. One of which, to paraphrase Chris Hardwick paraphasing someone else, you shouldn't let your significant other be the dumping ground at all times for all your problems. Work through things yourself and improve before you bring them to the table. And the other...be careful how to lead a girl on. Text messages can be interpreted any which way, and it's just a screen of cowardice masquerading as digital confidence. Be yourself, who you are, in person with someone; that's more the real you than someone behind the keyboard, however close to your real thoughts you may be.

I've determined that from now on, when I'm interested in someone, I'll call them. Because that's what real men...no...that's what mature adults do.

This book was recommended multiple times by a woman on Twitter. Men, if the girl you like has read this book, pay attention to her. She's special and worth calling, of the highest worth. May God give us all the chance to call the woman of our dreams.
Profile Image for Danette.
2,959 reviews14 followers
February 20, 2023
I am not the targeted audience for this book. :) I'm a little torn on a rating because there were parts I liked very much (and read aloud to my husband) and parts that were just meh.

The Deans call this a "New Approach to Dating" but it's really an old one.

The book targets women who must set a standard for the men they allow into their life. Their suggested rules: I will not accept dates made over text or social media, ignore all the late-night calls or texts, and decline all last-minute "hangouts" or "dates".

So guys, if you are interested in a girl, call her. Don't text late at night or last minute. Set up a date in advance. Sure texting is fine for details and a quick hello but it should not be the primary source of communication. And, please, COMMUNICATE! If you aren't interested in pursuing a relationship then tell her so both of you can move on. "Mercy dates" or "I just don't want to hurt her feelings" is unkind.

Online dating sites are fine but should "always be a vehicle toward a face-to-face relationship, not a replacement. The goal of online connections is to take the relationship off-line."

The Deans share the love of Jesus for all of us, and we have all sinned sexually, but I wish they would have had a more clear presentation of the gospel. Ruthie encourages Christian women to only date men who not only call themselves Christians but actually showed signs that Jesus had changed their lives. Michael shares how he committed to no sex before marriage because "God's love had captured my heart, and the instruction was to wait...for better."

The Deans admonish women to stop repeating the past and expecting different results all while giving them hope. He's not your last chance - don't settle for the wrong guy. They also deal with tough topics such as substance abuse, pornography, and sexting. They do seem to genuinely care for their readers.

I did like the sample text message conversations with Michael's "Interpretation" and suggested responses.

This book could be helpful for women who would like help and hope to stop the spiral of unhealthy "dating" relationships.

In case it's helpful, here are the chapter titles.
1 - Real Men Don't Text:
A New Approach to Dating
2 - Real Women Don't Text Back:
From the Man's Perspective
3 - Real Women and Great Sex:
Purity Now for Intimacy Later
4 - Real Men Wait for Sex: More Sex, Better Sex
(I personally think we need to be careful here.)
5 - Real Women Embrace Beauty:
And Tackle the Deeper Issues
6 - Real Men and the Real You:
Finding the Assurance You Are Enough
(more Gospel here, please)
7 - Real Red Flags: Run, Baby, Run
8 - Real Turnoffs:
How Not to Attract the Right Man
9 - Real Women Stop Making Excuses:
He's Not Your Last Chance
10 - Real Men Grow Up:
Finding a Man with Direction
11 - Real Women Give Nice Guys a Chance:
Chemistry vs. Connection
12 - Real Connection:
Navigating Relationships...Online
13 - Real Women, Messy Bedrooms, and Hope:
When You're Desperate for More
14 - Real Love: The Story We Didn't Write
Profile Image for C.J. Stunkard.
Author 1 book3 followers
March 15, 2014
When I offered to review Real Men Don't Text, I thought the book was written to men regarding how to engage women in real relationship, rather than controllable, safe, text exchanges to keep them at arms' length. I was pleasantly surprised to discover that the book is actually written to women in order to warn them about manipulative relationships. While this misunderstanding created initial confusion, I invited the opportunity to learn something from a text written for a demographic other than my own. Sadly, I did not have a great experience with it.

In part, the issue with Real Men Don't Text is tone. Tone is the difference between a person receiving advice or condescension, of feeling understood or insulted. The tone of Real Men Don't Text is dually problematic. Due to its two authors, a husband and wife, the book's tone is inconsistent and, at times, confusing. Additionally, both parties can give the impression of finger-wagging, which makes their message less appealing. At times, the content feels like it's coming from folks who have all the answers because life is going good for them right now, and if you would only avoid their mistakes and just take their advice, you'd be as fulfilled as they are.

Tone aside, I'll grant that the book has some good things to say. For one, the authors are upfront about the difference between when a guy is interested in caring for a woman and when he is merely interested in self-fulfillment; one major theme of the book is "he just doesn't like you (but is using you, so get rid of him)". Additionally, the book is forthcoming about a young woman's responsibility to behave in a way that warrants respect. "You are always teaching people how to treat you," (p21) is a quote I will likely carry for some time. The authors also address the emptiness of sexting relationships (though neither of them engaged in such), and they stress the importance of real interpersonal communication. These are all good thoughts, and at times they are communicated well.

At others they are not. For example, the "text translations" found in each chapter describing what men "really" mean in their texts become tiresome, as do the additional inserted anecdotes of broken hearts and bad choices, many of which come across as generic copies of pain rather than the true heartbreak that occurs in abusive relationships. I would have preferred that only the stories directly told by the authors within the context of the chapter's prose been included, for some of those are startling and authentically poignant.

In fairness, The book is a relatively fast read, which is saying something for a work of nonfiction. Inasmuch as the tone or some issues of content are problematic, any reader will likely find her (or his) way through the text quickly.

I truly wanted to like this book more than I did, but then again, Real Men Don't Text was not written to or for me. As something of a niche author myself, I can understand that some books just do not work for some readers, but that doesn't mean they won't be a good fit for somebody else.

I received this book free of charge from the Tyndale Bloggers program in exchange for this review.
Profile Image for E.A..
Author 12 books191 followers
September 26, 2013
Written by Ruthie and Michael Dean, this refreshing take on dating in today's culture is not only honest, but accurate! They tackle such topics as texting as it relates to dating, sex before marriage, true beauty, red flags in relationships, and so much more! There's humor, but behind that is truth always searching for the deeper issue.

I found myself highlighting numerous portions and often being challenged at how I look at dating with the influence of texting now so prevalent in our culture. I also appreciated how honest they both were about their own failings and their fresh perspective on living as a Christian. I could tell Ruthie wasn't talking about her struggle with current Christianity for shock value or to be 'seeker friendly'. She was being honest about her own experiences and was faithful to always bring it back to Jesus!

Another portion that really challenged and encouraged me was her section on beauty (Chapter 5). I believe self-image is one of the largest things women struggle with today and that also plays a role in how (and who) they date. The Dean's were so faithful to give great examples here and to be honest about what guys are (and should be) looking for in women beyond just appearance.

I highly recommend this book to you if you are a single woman (ok, I'd even suggest it to married women too for Chapter 5 alone!). You will find beautiful truth lovingly written into the pages of this book. Allow yourself to read the chapters, honestly assessing where YOU are at. Ruthie and Michael are faithful to ask some tough questions, but you can tell their heart behind it all. Great read, but even better than that, fantastic takeaways!

Originally posted on my blog here: http://eahendryx.blogspot.com/2013/10...
__________________________
I received a free copy of this book for review purposes, but was under no obligation to read the book or post a review. I do so under my own motivation and the opinions I have expressed in this review are honest and entirely my own.
Profile Image for Shelly.
48 reviews
April 2, 2020
I highly recommend this book to all young women of dating age and their parents. These authors share real life experiences, some very personal about how their dating expectations took a toll. Eventually, Ruthie especially figured out what’s he truly wanted & gave herself time to heal. Attracting Mr Right is about becoming Mrs Right. This isn’t a book of rules to follow or a magic formula, it encourages an honest look at what motivates YOU where dating, men & ultimately marriage are concerned. Moms of young teens: I urge you read this now, so that when your daughter (or son-young men can learn from this too) is ready to start dating you can read it together!

Book jacket:
“Late night texts [or worse yet: snapchats-SC was not around yet when this couple wrote the book, but from what I read, it would have been an issue for Ruthie!]. Mixed signals. Dead-end relationships. This doesn’t have to be your love life.

Welcome to dating in the digital world-where phone conversations followed by dinner and a movie have been replaced by last-minute texts, ambiguous relationships & group hangouts.

While technology makes it faster & easier to connect than ever before, it also created confusion...and heartbreak.

Ruthie & Michael Dean have heard the same story from thousands of women; the disappearing men, the cryptic messages, the disappointing relationships, and the false intimacy of on-screen connection.

In a no-holds barres narrative style, the husband-and-wife team chronicle their dating mishaps, hilarious attempts to find love & many mistakes-healing women understand just what men are thinking and how to attract Mr Right (spoiler: its not what you think!)

#realmendonttext offers game-changing perspectives, bringing a fresh approach to love, sex & dating. You don’t need to spend one more night staring at a phone screen [or analyzing every word & punctuation]. It’s time to take your love life back.”

Connect with Ruthie Dean at www.ruthiedean.com or on Twitter @Ruthie_Dean or Michael @MichaelDean10
Profile Image for Axl Jay.
13 reviews
January 13, 2025
a heads up. to be honest, not all the content, advices, messages are applicable to me as i live in a different country (Philippines), a different generation (maybe), with a different culture and dating culture. but im really fascinated while reading this, i still get many points and takeaways from reading this book. i completely relate to "amid the sea of jerks, there are many great guys out there who've just never know learned to date intentionally." because i've never learned dating from anyone, my dad, family, or my friends. i'm 21 now and i have to figure everything out by myself on how to date and how to treat a girl right, that led me to buy this book. i love reading both perspective of a man and woman, Michael and Ruthie's. "there's a lot of writing happening behind the scenes."-to whoever writing my story, God, i been single my whole life and hope to meet her sooner later. just kidding not kidding.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Andrew.
792 reviews14 followers
September 18, 2013
In Real Men, Don't Text, Ruthie and Michael Dean has written an excellence book to guide readers into the new principles of dating in the modern world. With the increasing technology advances, this has allowed text messages to become the common method for men to ask woman to go out on a date. This has permitted men to become extremely passive in displaying their interest in a girl. As we all know, texting and social media isn't a real connection with the person, we are talking to. But many people are settling for texted based communication, because it's easier and you're losing how to actually conduct a conversation with others. Like most people, I am sure, you have had trouble determining if that person is really into you and wants to get to know you. How many of us have been confused as to what that text message even meant.

This book takes a strong stand against women responding to text messages for late minute date plans. Ruthie and Michael Dean suggested that women must begin to set clear boundaries about how men are supposed to pursue them. They advised that woman should turn down dates from men who ask them out on dates through text messages. Couples need to also limit how much they text each other and be more focused on creating more face-to-face relationships. This is not saying that you can't ever text each other, their point is that there should be more configuration on building a relationship in person. An important note that they pointed out was, if he refuses to call you, then he isn't that passionately interested in you. Countless women constantly make excuses as to why it's okay if he just wants a text relationship and he declares that he hates talking on the phone. Really, more than likely, he is talking to other girls and texting allows him the capability for him to do so.

The book also contained the lies that men will use to get women into bed and seduce them to have sex with them. This section is one of my most important chapters that will impact women and teach them the lines guys will use. Two of the most common lies that I believe men use are, "if you love me, you would sleep with me" and "I have needs, and sex is one of them" (Page 55). I especially loved how transparent Michael was in sharing that he remained a virgin for twenty-nine years and he survived. Sex isn't also a need, you can wait until marriage. The book also goes into more details about other lies men will use in order to lure you into engaging in sex.

One of my favorite chapters was, "Real Women Give Nice Guys a Chance". I loved how the authors explained to women the real aspect of not just looking for chemistry as the prime reason for staying in a dead end relationship. Because chemistry eventually wears off. They described the significance of seeking a connection build on someone who truly understands and cares about you more than themselves. I also enjoyed the facet of establishing nonnegotiables in what you're looking for in a future spouse. This section will incredibly assist women (and men) who are having trouble deciding what they are searching for in a mate. I also appreciated how the authors revealed that bad boys aren't always the best choices for relationship partners, you have to realize that you aren't going to change him and make him a nice boy.
In my own dating life, I have women that refused to talk on the phone and text was the only way they would connect. I have also received a sexting picture from a girl when I didn't ask her for one. I have received text messages that have scared me to death, such as, I had this one girl that stated that she would be a good mother and she wanted a ring by Christmas. Needless to say, I'm not engaged and I ended that. I have also had an engaged woman hitting on me and texting me and made me feel uncomfortable and was inviting me over for drinks. I even had a nice text message inviting me over to come cuddle at 12 A.M. and she wanted friends with benefits. I walked away and decided to save myself for my future wife. This book hit home to me to be a better man and to set standards that if they don't want to talk on the phone ever than what makes me think, they will want to communicate in marriage when storms arise!

I would recommend this life changing resource to every single woman, whether you are young or old. I would also suggest that men need to read this book to learn the effects our actions are having on women. It's also important to notice how we are contributing to the epidemic of men, becoming too passive in pursuing a girl we are interested in. One of the biggest things, I learned was the critical position on not accepting dates via text messages. I powerfully believe that this book will impart women with the knowledge and the perilous in our new dating world. Yes, if you follow this book's advice, you won't be popular and the world may look down on you for your stance on dating, but your worth and value will be everlasting! Ladies, you are worth more than a last minute text date and a one night stand or a hookup. I immensely loved the dramatic team that Ruthie and Michael Deal, as husband and wife, wrote to influence women and the compassion they had on reminding women that they deserve more, that they are valuable, and nice guys still exist. I loved how the authors shared their love story with their readers and encouraged single people to keep hoping, believing, and let God write your love story like He molded theirs together. This is one thing that I am learning more of each day. I highly recommend that if you are single that you get a copy of this book, and read the insights presented! Your dating life just might change!

"Tyndale House Publishers has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book."
Profile Image for Catherine Flynn.
158 reviews1 follower
February 3, 2022
What an amazing love story and approach to dating. Truly chivalry is not dead. If you're a Christian woman and looking for a man as a husband, their teaching and approach are recommended. Do not conform how the world teaches you about dating and settle for less just to have someone as a companion to relieve loneliness. Waiting is also a virtue and truly worth it at the end. Grab this book for enlightenment and wisdom for a real Christian dating. Worth reread.
87 reviews
June 18, 2025
If you live in the digital age (I assume everyone that is reading this review), single, and learning to date in it- I highly recommend it. This book is a breath of fresh air! As the title goes, real men don't text (I'll add in the entire time). There needs to be some in person, face to face communication! So ladies, if a real man wants to date you, ask him to CALL you- it helps to determine his intentions towards you AND if he really is interested in you, hence calls to take you on a date😉
Profile Image for Ashley Joy.
46 reviews1 follower
January 18, 2022
Yup, this book is still as good and relevant as I remembered. Would highly recommend it to anyone
Profile Image for April E.
24 reviews4 followers
August 12, 2016
Real Men Don't Text (from Tyndale Publishing) offers a new approach to dating that helps to eliminate the confusion over where a relationship is headed and who's really interested in you. I had to read this book, as I have daughters beginning to date and sons coming up behind them that will be entering into relationships. I'm glad I did read it, and I'll encourage my children and other young adults to read it, as well.

Text messaging, instant messaging, snapchat, facebook - they all offer great ways to communicate and stay in touch with friends, but they also bring challenges to dating relationships. More and more, guys are asking girls for last minute hang-outs that leave a girl wondering if it's a date or not. Is he interested or not? Am I a friend, or something more? Trying to read between the lines of a 2 sentence text is virtually impossible.

Ruthie Dean had been through a series of bad relationships before she made the decision to not accept text-messaged invites. She made the decision to reply - "that sounds good, but call me to discuss it." Some guys would take the initiative to call, others wouldn't. Michael Dean called ... and kept calling.

Real Men Don't Text is a very easy book to read and relate to. The chapters alternate between Michael's point of view and Ruthie's point of view, though most of them are coming from Ruthie's experience as a girl trying to navigate the dating world. Sprinkled throughout the book are descriptions of "The Man You're Dating" such as "Mr. Promised He Would Call" and "Mr. Fixer-Upper". This isn't done for man-bashing, because the whole point of the book is that there are bad relationships everywhere, and guys looking for a pretty face to hook up with ... BUT if you wait, there are also great guys out there looking for wives.

The book also has Text Translation 101 blurbs scattered through the book. This one takes those ambiguous and confusing texts (taken from real situations shared with Ruthie) and interprets them. Most of the time, the translation is ... "He isn't interested in a long-term committed relationship, so move on." This book is about having respect for yourself, and making wise dating decisions that reflect your true worth. You are more than an object, more than a fling, more than occasional entertainment, more than just a pretty face.

Real Men Don't Text includes many personal stories of other women who've made dating mistakes, and learned from them. You are not alone. I love the chapters on Real Red Flags, Real Turnoffs, Real Men Grow Up, and Real Connection. These came later in the book, but they took the premise of the book and applied it. They help differentiate between a relationship built on a godly foundation, that's headed toward marriage ... and ones that are headed for disaster.

I highly recommend this book for every young lady entering the dating world!!
Profile Image for Sarah E.
9 reviews8 followers
July 26, 2016
I'm not part of the notorious "I Kissed Dating Goodbye" camp of Christian non-daters. But I'll admit, it's hard to find solid ground where I can date with a clean conscience, given my understanding of being called to Christlikeness, but without the legalism. And how in the world do you find a guy willing to do the same?

A friend put me onto this book on the day the Kindle version was free. I figured, why not? I was pleasantly surprised to read some advice from a woman who didn't pretend she'd done it all right. In fact, a lot of the advice comes from having first done everything wrong -- and the bits her husband adds provide valuable clarity from the male perspective. Drawing on those experiences, sociological research and biblical morals (it's written primarily for women who are Christian or Jewish), she distills her advice into concrete do's (and don'ts), with clear and specific examples and a dose of "do this 'cause it works, not just 'cause I say so" ... which for a gal like me, who's unsure how to date well, is gold. For the record, there's a lot in here a guy may benefit from learning, as well -- if only because of the glimpse it provides men into the feminine psyche!

Gems like this keep you laughing through much of the book:

"KEEP ME UPDATED?! I read his last sentence at least nine hundred times and copied and pasted his message into an email to ten friends begging them to tell me "WHAT DOES THIS MEAN?" --in all caps, mind you. I remember reviewing over and over that he wrote "Hi, Ruthie" with no exclamation point, which clearly meant he wasn't excited after writing my name -- which could only translate that he just wasn't that into me. ..."

Spoiler (well, not really): The guy emailing that to her? She ended up marrying him.

I don't recommend it without reservation. Only about five books exist which I would. There are obviously situations in which breaking her rules is about the wisest thing to do -- and there always will be. But the author does an excellent job explaining the whys behind the hows so it's easier to discern when the hows don't necessarily apply. And for someone wondering how to date "in the world of texting, Twitter crushes and online dating," it's an easy read with a lot of food for thought -- and probably a good kick in the pants for some of us gals to build our confidence and shore up our identity instead of trying to find it in relationship with a guy.
Profile Image for Tara.
820 reviews
September 8, 2013
This is a great reference tool for the modern woman who is conflicted in today's world of dating. Not only does it offer solid advice, but provides realistic examples that support scenarios involving the simplistic and technological communication methods, especially texting. The husband-wife duo were supportive through this learning process, and as the reader concluded the book, I personally felt as if I had became friends who have heard both the horror stories and praise tales from the dynamic Deans.

To simplify the contents of the book, the authors suggest to construct lists of what you want in a relationship, however do not follow the list to a tee. This is a concept that I think future readers will struggle with, because why would they have constructed lists to begin with? Furthermore, the list idea is neglected in order for the typical catchphrase "give every guy a chance"....except the bad ones. There were a few oxymorons that a reader, who may be a young, struggling dater, (like myself) would have had issues with while reading in her search for answers.

Overall, the context of the book is tailored to the needs of today's woman. They reinforce the idea that there are indeed good relationships to be had, however, insist on constructing them in any other manner than the simplified 140 characters known as a text message. Create a list of values that you as an individual want to keep in a relationship, regardless of who the opposite party is; don't bother with the whole "oh he'll change" concept, because it'll never happen; and finally, have a belief. Whether it is in yourself, Christian faith, or that the Cubs will make it to the World Series, have faith in something that will help support your journey into finding happiness.

I received this book from NetGalley via the Tyndale Blog Network in exchange for my honest opinion in this review.
Profile Image for Melinda.
46 reviews3 followers
July 26, 2016
The Deans bring advise to a generation of tech-savvy daters wondering how to navigate the virtual waters to marriage. Attempting to date a serial texter requires a translator. Michael and Ruthie brought a crash course in understanding what a texter means when they say “are you busy tonight?”

I found Real Men Don’t Text gave a lot of practical advice. If the guy doesn’t have the motivation to call you, you shouldn’t find the motivation to get dolled up for a date. If the guy texts you like he texts his friends, he probably doesn’t intend on you being anything other than a friend. You can’t sit around and wait for the next text, you need to live life. If the text doesn’t come, move on.

What I felt Real Men Don’t Text failed to take into consideration is we are far down the technological road. We can no longer see the point we started from in the rearview mirror. I’m probably a few years older than the intended demographic for this book and many of my friends wouldn’t be “friends” if we followed the logic in Real Men Don’t Text. We’ve reached the point of a generation not reaching for the phone to make a call first, but reaching to text. We are tweeting our devotion to our significant others. Facebook statuses are proclaiming our love. One-on-one communication is dying.

I love the idea behind going “old school” and speaking to each other. There are many phone conversations in my past with wonderful friends and boyfriends which lasted multiple hours. Many time I think “I miss the sound of so-and-so’s voice.” The reality is we need to accept the evolution of today’s advancement and train our children to respect themselves and others. Text messages don’t have to be booty calls. They are simply what Facebook is to MySpace.
Profile Image for Eustacia Tan.
Author 15 books292 followers
September 9, 2013
Ok, I admit it, the title intrigued me. After all, just a few days before, I was telling my friend "real men say 'I love you'." Over text message (of course). So obviously this book was going to attract my attention.

The main message of this book is: if a guy is interested, he'll call you. Texting means he's not sincere. And under no circumstances will you ever text first. Yup, I think that's about it. The authors used their own experience and the stories of others to talk about the type of woman one should be.

What did I think of this book? Well, I don't quite know. Keep in mind that I've been single forever and am used to the fact, then this book becomes rather irrelevant to me doesn't it? Plus, I love messaging people! I tend to use messages as a way to deepen my friendships - and this is especially true after I moved to Japan. So I can't really take the authors stand and insist that all messages are not as sincere as phone calls.

So I guess my stand goes like this: the content matters more than the medium. I'm pretty sure phone calls can be insincere, and I'm sure there are messages that can be sincere. Sometimes, if the time difference is too great, the only way to keep in touch will be through messages.

In a nutshell, this is an interesting book, and I like the authors story of how they met. It's really sweet. I'm still trying to decide whether to take their advice :p

Disclaimer: I got a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for a free and honest review.

This review was first posted to Inside the mind of a Bibliophile
Profile Image for Laura Pratt.
44 reviews16 followers
September 2, 2013
**I received this book through the publisher in exchange for my review.**

So I have been married almost 10 years. We were dating when texting was just starting out and wasn't really all that big yet. Now we sit in the same room and text. We text all the time. But part of that is the fact that my husband works shift work so there are times it is our only conversations during a day. So all that said. I hope that my boys pay close attention to this book. I know that it was written for girls but I will be making them read it as soon as they get phones. Because I can tell you that texting is not the way to build a relationship. I understand that sometimes people are in other states but hey that is what PHONE CALLS AND SKYPE are for.

Now there was a comment made in the book about a girl NEVER being responsible for a man lusting after her and I totally disagree with this. If a girl is letting it all hang out, making out with a guy she just met, and sending him inappropriate texts then she is completely responsible. She is getting exactly what she wants out of it.

Either way this is a great book for all of you who are dating. Guys and girls should read this book. Because let's face it guys need just as much help as these girls and they need to know what not to do.

64 reviews26 followers
June 11, 2014
This is a great, easy, funny read about how we need to stop hiding behind our screens and start having real, human-interaction conversations. I thought this book was a great, relevant read for today's generation. It was an easy read, and at the end of each chapter there is a summary of what was covered in a quick, easy, 140 character "twitter-like" format. Although, it is written for a single, young adult woman, this book has a lot of significance among today's "tech-savvy, social media, text messaging generation, and should be read by everyone - single or married, male or female, young or old. Some of the advice in this book has been talked about in other books, but the main focus of the book is not one that I have ever read about, even though it is a major problem among today's generation. I love that this book challenges everyone to step up and stop hiding behind our screens. I like the fact that this book is written from a christian perspective (which I believe is important) and encourages readers on things like: modesty, purity, and waiting to have sex until you're married; but it is not over-the-top or in your face and can be read by believers and non-believers alike.
Profile Image for Holly.
121 reviews1 follower
March 3, 2014
Practical, humorous, and inspiring

With dating books, I'm always reluctant because most have unrealistic approaches. They are too general or give false information leading girls down a team of fairytales. This book is an outlier! The title was catchy, especially with today's obsessed texters, so I thought "Lends see how entertaining this book is. It's free after all from either Pandora's Deals or Ebub. What do I have to lose?" ...and the first page was read. This book has make and female perspective, as it's written by a married couple who have had their own struggles and both led very different paths. The humor and realistic approach was refreshing. I certainly have some friends I would like to recommend this to, but I really think items a good read for everyone. Suggest giving it to young ladies as they are entering the dating realm. It talks about setting standards and non-negotiables. Highly recommend! *Excuse my thumbs as this is being typed from a mobile device.
Profile Image for Deedee.
29 reviews2 followers
March 15, 2014
This book is a real eye-opener for today's young woman navigating through the harsh winds and tough blows of complicated relationships. Basically, Real Men Don't Text reminds us girls that we are worth pursuing, and we deserve more than just late-night, spur-of-the-moment hangouts with and sporadic texts from guys who don't really know what they want. The Deans also provide insight about how to figure out important issues such as standards and baggage and dating rules. It's obvious that this is a cause they are very passionate about, as their advice and instructions, really, come from those who've been there, done that, and want to spare you the agony of another broken heart.

Reading this book will change your love life. The next time a guy shows interest, tell him to call. The good guy, the right guy, just might.
Profile Image for Bree.
31 reviews8 followers
September 7, 2016
An awesome, funny, insightful, and practical book! I enjoyed reading a female and male perspective on dating and marriage in today's world filled with texting and social media updates. My biggest takeaways are that all relationships are important because it "programs our minds as to what is and isn't an acceptable way to be treated," that marriage won't heal our deepest wounds, and the importance of having confidence (it's "the quiet assurance you are enough"). I also loved the section from chapter 8 that lists the turn-ons for Mr. Right (direction, standards, confidence, poise and manners, family oriented, passionate about others) and chapter 12, which covers online dating. I'm sure I'll return back to this book again in the future!
Profile Image for Janet.
1,543 reviews14 followers
September 3, 2013
If you are serious about changing your dating life, breaking bad habits or just interested in the mechanics of dating during these years of technology; this one is for you. Oh, and if you are a woman, you are the target audience. It will be easier if you are a "spiritual" woman, but the authors give non-believers permission to skip the faith-based sections. If you are a man, this might be good insight into dating today, your actions and their impact.
This book was well written, and though I disagreed with some of the author's points, I found it to be worth reading.
*I received my copy from NetGalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
156 reviews1 follower
July 20, 2014
I was eager to read Real Men Don’t Text because I am new to the dating scene and I found it to be very informative. I found the book to be filled with practical advice from a Christian viewpoint and it covered all the important topics such as how you view your body, remaining pure in a relationship, how to find the right man, and what red flags to look for when on a date as well as topics related to online dating. Of all the things in this book, I really liked the summaries at the end of each chapter because they really highlighted the important points of each chapter. This is a must read for all woman and teen girls who are either in a relationship or are new to the dating scene.
Profile Image for Ashley.
11 reviews
January 3, 2015
This book is excellent for those who are single and waiting or dating and disillusioned by the whole process. Both categories of readers will gain a fresh perspective on how to date in a way that saves you from heartache and wasted years as well as honoring God through it all. I appreciated the personal stories from Michael and Ruthie Dean about how they learned there is a better way. Very real and relatable to this day and age of dating and beyond. Thanks Michael and Ruthie for sharing your hearts, advice and encouragement with us! God bless your ministry!
487 reviews11 followers
August 29, 2014
Texting is a way of hiding from real communication. Often young men, in an effort to not “hurt” a young woman, will text even when they don’t really want to pursue a relationship. This book is a fabulous book for young women and young men to learn what they are really communicating to the opposite sex. It also tells how to communicate to gain a mate – we might date for a few years, usually less than a decade, but we want a mate for 5 or 6 decades. Again, wonderful book and I highly recommend it for late teens and young adults!
Profile Image for Kristen.
209 reviews20 followers
June 17, 2014
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. As a woman who has been through and experienced quite a few of the scenarios described in this book, I only wish this had been around when I was in my late teens/early twenties. It would have saved me a lot of heartache! I would highly recommend this to any woman but especially those women who are single and/or dating. Take the advice outlined in this book and you will save yourself a lot of heartache in the long run.
9 reviews1 follower
February 21, 2014
wow, an incredible read. I could hardly put it down! the book focuses mainly on respecting yourself as a woman and daughter of God, realizing you deserve to be treated well, and refusing to settle for less. They include behaviors to watch out for that are trends among modern young men. very insightful, numerous, and well-written. It will probably be a book I reread.
Profile Image for Ashley Clark.
Author 2 books13 followers
February 24, 2014
I read this even thought I'm married. It grabbed my attention and I liked what I read.. Made me think back to other guys I've dated in the past. Wish this book was out then! Would have saved me a lot of time! Also makes me really happy that my husband has always been someone who calls and hardly ever texts anyone.
Profile Image for Luís Branco.
Author 60 books47 followers
February 13, 2014
I read this book mainly for curiosity and as a Christian minister. I was wondering what I would find in this book. I must confess that I liked the approach and I think the might be very useful for young and singles, specially in this new era of communication. Good book!
Profile Image for Jaclyn.
19 reviews
February 4, 2015
They hit on all the necessary topics with valid points but could have dove deeper. I was so glad to find a book that is relevant in the age of texting and online dating sites. Thank you Ruthie & Michael!
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