Books

A smart, sexy guide to embracing the repressed, tabooed, and often unwanted aspects of ourselves so we can discover our inner power and finally live the life we deserve. “We always get exactly what we want; but often, though we may not be aware of it, what we most want is dark—very dark.” Each of us has a dual nature: we are light (conscious) and dark (unconscious). The dark side of our personality—the “other,” the shadow side—is made up of what we think is our primitive, primal, negative impu...

A leading expert on human sexuality and author of the blog Sex and Psychology offers an unprecedented look at sexual fantasy based on the most comprehensive, scientific survey ever undertaken. What do Americans really want when it comes to sex? And is it possible for us to get what we want? Justin J. Lehmiller, one of the country's leading experts on human sexuality and author of the popular blog Sex and Psychology, has made it his career's ambition to answer these questions. He recently conclu...

"The Smart Girl's Guide to Polyamory: Everything You Need to Know About Open Relationships, Non-Monogamy, and Alternative Love" by Dedeker Winston is a comprehensive and insightful book that delves into the world of polyamory and non-monogamous relationships. Here's a review of the book: Overview Dedeker Winston's book serves as an informative guide, particularly aimed at women, though it's valuable for anyone interested in exploring polyamory. It covers a wide range of topics, from the basics...

"The State of Affairs: Rethinking Infidelity" by Esther Perel offers a nuanced examination of infidelity in relationships. Perel, a respected couples therapist, presents a controversial perspective that infidelity can ultimately be beneficial for relationships. This does not mean that she advocates for infidelity; rather, she explores how affairs can compel partners to closely reevaluate their attitudes about love, commitment, and sex. The book is lauded for its insightful and balanced approach...

"Mating in Captivity: Unlocking Erotic Intelligence" by Esther Perel is a profound exploration of the intricate relationship between domesticity and sexual desire. Perel, a renowned therapist, delves into the paradoxical union of these two aspects and offers guidance on rekindling passion in long-term relationships. The book is celebrated for its insightful and counterintuitive approach to modern relationships. Perel's expertise in couples therapy informs her exploration of maintaining desire a...

"Opening Up" is a comprehensive guide on non-monogamous relationships, written by Tristan Taormino, a well-known author and educator on sexuality. The book is often recommended for its practical advice, in-depth research, and inclusive approach to various forms of non-monogamous relationships. Taormino combines personal anecdotes, interviews with people in open relationships, and practical advice to provide a thorough overview of the subject. Key topics covered in the book include: Differen...

"Feminist Trauma Theologies: Body, Scripture & Church in Critical Perspective," edited by Karen O’Donnell and Katie Cross, is a groundbreaking collection that explores the intersection of trauma, theology, and feminist perspectives. This compilation is significant in its approach to trauma theology, a field that acknowledges the enduring impact of traumatic experiences and seeks to integrate these experiences within theological discourse. The book is described as a revelatory journey, sometimes...

"Nadia Bolz-Weber's book *Shameless: A Sexual Reformation* is a provocative and insightful critique of traditional Christian teachings on sexuality. Bolz-Weber, a former pastor, draws from her personal experiences, as well as those of her friends and congregants, to challenge and reformulate Christian perspectives on sex, gender, and relationships. The book is described as a mix of memoir and call to action. Bolz-Weber's critique is grounded in biblical texts and the perspectives of both early ...

Linda Kay Klein's book, "Pure: Inside the Evangelical Movement That Shamed a Generation of Young Women and How I Broke Free," delves into the consequences of purity culture within evangelical Christianity, particularly its impact on girls and young women. The book is described as a contentious debut, blending Klein's personal experiences with a broader exploration of evangelical purity culture. Klein reflects on her upbringing as a conservative Evangelical Christian and the sexual shaming she e...

"Burnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle," authored by sisters Emily Nagoski, Ph.D., and Amelia Nagoski, D.M.A., is a comprehensive exploration of the phenomena of burnout, particularly focusing on how it affects women. The book presents burnout as a condition with three primary components: emotional exhaustion (the fatigue from caring too much for too long), depersonalization (the depletion of empathy, caring, and compassion), and a decreased sense of accomplishment (a feeling of futi...