Dating on Purpose

I’ll admit, I rolled my eyes at the title—*another* dating book? But *Dating on Purpose* surprised me by being ruthlessly practical. Tia Truthteller doesn’t waste time on abstract concepts like “energy” or “alignment.” Instead, she hands you a checklist: *Here’s how to spot a man who’s serious in the first three dates. Here’s how to respond when he flakes. Here’s why you’re ignoring red flags.* The audiobook’s structure is its strongest asset—each chapter ends with a “homework” prompt (e.g., “Text three friends and ask: *Does this guy add to my life or drain it?*”), which forces you to engage instead of passively listen. Angie Hickman’s performance elevates the material. She nails the tone: firm but not harsh, like a friend who loves you enough to tell you the truth. That said, the production isn’t flawless. The pacing in Chapter 5 feels rushed during a key section on “emotional bidding wars,” and I wished for more pauses to digest Truthteller’s sharper insights. My other critique? The book leans heavily on heterosexual dynamics, which might leave LGBTQ+ listeners wanting more tailored advice. Still, the core message—*date with intention, not desperation*—transcends orientation. If you’re exhausted by modern dating’s ambiguity, this audiobook is the antidote. Just be ready to squirm when Truthteller calls out your own BS.