Rating: 
Summary: Well done, well said!!!
Review: I got this book as a gift for my birthday a couple of months ago and had not read it until a few days ago when I was on a trip. I could have kicked myself for having such a great book and letting it lay around for a while before I read it. First, it is extremely well written. The language is beautiful and lyrical, written in the kind of prose we don't see enough of any more. Second, the author is a terrific storyteller who just grabs your attention and refuses to release it. I chuckled throughout the book even in the parts of the book where I didn't agree completely (I never wear mascara)but respected the viewpoint. There are times when the author is teasing the reader in subtle ways such as in the chapter on negotiation when she advises short skirts. It's obvious that there's a sly smile behind such words. But who couldn't love a book with such adorable characters such as the cousin who believes she is married to Burt Reynolds or the grandmother who never leaves home without a shotgun! It is a charming book full of sage advice and kind spirit. I loved it so much that I'm reading it again and I am planning to buy several for graduation gifts because this is the kind of book that every young woman --- Southern or not --- should be armed with when she heads off into adult life.
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Summary: Horray for humor, kindness and femininity!!!
Review: Finally, a book that celebrates femininity and embraces a gentler, kinder lifestyle. Told with a witty tongue-in-cheek style, there are passages that are clearly meant for comic relief. But, for the most part, this book is filled with inspiring words and solid advice told in heart warming, humorous style. My favorite, though, is the encouragement to be a woman who isn't afraid to clutch tightly to her femininity and poke fun at herself. ...[This book] is especially useful now.... This is a time in our nation when we need to offer encouragement and love, not criticism and harsh words. Disregard some of the silliness of the book and find the heart of the heart of the message. You won't be disappointed.
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Summary: HOGWASH
Review: I am from the South as were my ancestors for at least 5 generations. I was reared by a wonderful mother who also taught me to say yes ma'am and yes sir and to wear dresses to funerals and wakes and that's just being respectful whether you are from the North, South, East or West, but this garbage about flirting and short skirts and always getting your way by manipulation is bull. We don't all sit around drinking mint julips either!! The days of Gone with the Wind are GONE!! Get over it!!
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Summary: From A Northern Belle
Review: I loved this book! Having been a Yankee my whole life, and having Southerners get "on my nerves" from time to time, I appreciated the history and good humor. Ms. Rich covered "all of the bases" with grandeur to boot. I was thankful for all of the inspiration and positive thoughts. I hope to be able to reach into the "file cabinets of my mind" when I need the spirit she has conveyed in times of need.I can't begin to list all of things I related to in this book. I now can appreciate the Southerners I do encounter with patience and due praise for their heritage and stoic strength. Thank you for passing along this wonderful compilation of life, love, frustration and above all car buying!
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Summary: Could you believe a man enjoyed this book
Review: As a displaced southerner and single man living up in Washington DC area now, I bought this book partially as gift, social research in dating, and nostalgia for the south. It turned into a delightful afternoon read full of joyful epiphanies. For instance, I had met a young lady in the gym on the previous day, who had just mesmerized me with her vivacious feminity. I couldn't put my finger on what that 'quality' that enthralled me was until reading this book -- it was southern grace, beauty, and charm. She was that incandescent someone for whom I instantly wanted to go out and slay dragons for! Well, slay dragons only after I had enjoyed some delighful conversation and her lovely smile for a time. Such charm, and even long skirts, are as rare up here in DC as pumpkins in july, and I'd forgotten how wondrous and captivating feminity without apology can be until reminded and illuminated by this book.
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Summary: Now I Know What I Wish I Had Known Sooner!!!
Review: A couple of years ago, I was at a wedding where every man there flocked around a guest who was a Southern woman. She was lovely but not particular pretty so I and the rest of my Southern California female friends couldn't figure out what was going on. She had cast a spell on the men and we, quite frankly, were disgusted by it. That was jealousy, because deep inside we all wanted to possess that kind of magic. Recently, I accidentally stumbled across this book and the title was so intriguing that I had to buy it. I certainly am glad I did. Until I read this book, I was positive that the magic of Southern women was woven between the lyrical lines of their drawl. But as the author points out, "It's More Than The Drawl, Y'all." And, is she ever right! It's a beauty that radiates from within and spills over onto those fortunate to be close to the stream of their thoughtfulness and kindness. It's also a special potion of femininity, some of which comes natural and some which has to be practiced --- pretty lingerie, manicures and pedicures. This book answers every question I've ever had about Southern women and now I know that even though I'm a California girl --- and very proud of it --- I can practice the secrets of the women of the South. A big thank you to the author for her generosity in sharing these secrets. If I had her address, I'd write her a thank you note!
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Summary: Best Book Yet On Southern Women!
Review: I just got this book as a birthday present and I enjoyed it a great deal. I love the idea of commitment to femininity, tradition, history and family first over career. I'm sure there are some women who are opposed to a soft, ladylike approach to life, but not me! I applaude the idea of writing thank you notes and baking pies for a neighbor during a difficult time. And yes --- I agree that women should wear mascara and lipstick. If you're a serious woman without a sense of fun and humor, this book is not for you. If you're career-driven and believe that the office comes first always, this book is not for you. Don't even bother. BUT....if you are a woman who believes you can have a career, a family and enjoy the abundance of life, then grab this book. Don't wait for your birthday to get a copy.
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Summary: Bring On The Sequel!
Review: Some books you just don't want to end. This was one of them. For days, I found myself laughing over stories like the author's eccentric cousin Wilma, who thinks she is married to Burt Reynolds or her grandmother and her pistol. Too funny. I have relatives like this so I completely understand. How wonderful to read a book from an author who doesn't take herself too seriously and can rejoice in the good things that our beloved region offers --- things like graciousness, kindness and consideration of others. Yep, I'm one of those Southern women she writes about and after reading this book, I'm prouder of it than ever!
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Summary: Inspiring and Delightful!
Review: This book hit me right in the heart at a time I needed it most. It is nothing short of wonderful!!! As I struggle through the break-up of a long time relationship, I needed to hear many of the positive, uplifting words in this book. I laughed and cried. But mostly, I felt an uplifting in my heart and spirit as the author talked of the importance of being strong and carrying on in the face of adversity. Some of the chapters were so powerful that I felt as if it were written just for me. Maybe it was. It's easy to see when the author is making fun of herself and situations she has encountered...or at least it was to me. Not every word in this book is serious, so take those words with a grain of salt. But many of the words are sincere, heartfelt, positive and downright encouraging. If you are a woman who is facing a tough situation right now or if you want an enjoyable reprieve from drudgery, this book is for you. I will tout it always because of what it has meant to me. God bless you, Rhonda Rich!
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Summary: The Southern Woman's Bible
Review: If ever there was guide-book to everything Southern, this is it! Ronda Rich touches on all aspects of life as a Southern Belle, and offers common-sense suggestions to make everyday decisions. Beside my bed there are two books....the Bible, and a worn-out, ear-marked copy of What Southern Women Know! This is a must-have!
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