We’ve all heard the term “Cougars,” meaning 40-plus women seeking the attention of younger men through sexy aggression. In this book, Sherry Lynne suggests there are similarly aged women whose qualities can attract men in a more maturely appealing manner.
In her slim, chatty treatise, the author dubs such women as “M.A.R.E.S.”— those who exhibit everything listed in her book’s subtitle. These women, she believes, are seeking companionship in a positive, meaningful manner, and Lynne clearly considers herself one of them.
In clarifying what a M.A.R.E. is, the author discusses Cougars, women who have specific hunting grounds for finding younger men. She defines their “rules,” such as that “they must feel, look, and dress sexy.” In contrast, she says “M.A.R.E.S”. are refined women who take care of themselves not only physically but also emotionally. They are women with high self-esteem.
The book (not a how-to) offers stories—including Lynne’s own—of women who attract young men because of such qualities. “Our self-love, self-confidence, self-awareness and self-esteem are a magnet luring the man of our dreams, and more, to us.”
The book’s technical construct includes a finale, epilogue, endnotes, appendix, charts and illustrations—offerings that feel stiff and unnecessary for such a small book on a not-so-heavy subject. Otherwise friendly in approach, with just minor typos, M.A.R.E.S.’s purpose seems to be to validate the idea that older women can attract young men without taking the aggressive approach Cougars prefer. Along with anecdotes, the author supports her premise with quotes from WebMD, USA Today, and books that discuss older woman/younger man relationships.
Overall, Lynne’s words of affirmation should appeal to like women seeking a boost of confidence in the dating game.
