A Man With a Past

Finding a soul mate is no easy task, as the vast array of dating advice books demonstrates. Dating can be an uncertain, emotionally fraught activity. Dating someone who has been through a divorce can make things even more complicated. In her new book - Dating the Divorced Man - psychologist Christie Hartman helps readers think about all the various aspects involved in establishing a romantic relationship with a man who has been through a divorce. Even if the split was amicable there can be financial obligations involved. If the split was not amicable (and most of them aren't) then this can leave him with very mixed feelings about relationships and marriage. Hartman also counsels readers to strongly examine the biggest x-factor in dating a divorced man: his kids. A rocky relationship between you and his children, especially if they are bent on sabotage, can have a huge effect on a romance. In her introduction, Hartman explains what she is trying to accomplish with this book and offers some disclaimers: she does not advocate settling for less than you need and want, she does not judge, she is not here to teach you how to lure him into a relationship. She is here to offer advice on how to identify and solve problems, and she defines success by your happiness. And if your path to happiness is ending a relationship, then so be it. Even if you don't act on her advice, this book will at least get you to consider aspects of your relationship with a divorced man that you might not have thought about. It's a practical, reassuring book.