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The ultimate feminist books reading list

How violence has found its way into the bedroom and what we can do about it

Rough

**AS HEARD ON BBC RADIO 4'S WOMEN'S HOUR** 
 
Rough is a revolutionary non-fiction work exploring the narratives of sexual violence that we don't talk about. 
 
A bad sexual experience. 
 
A grey area. 
 
Not rape but... A violation . 
 
These are the terms we use to describe the experiences we don't have words for. The way we talk about topics such as sex, consent, assault aren't fit for purpose. 
 
Through powerful testimony from 50 women and non-binary people, this book shines a light on the sexual violence that takes place in our bedrooms and beyond, sometimes at the hands of people we know, trust, or even love. Rough investigates violations such as 'stealthing,' non-consensual choking, and non-consensual rough sex acts that our culture is only starting to recognise as sexual violence. 
 
The book explores the ways in which systems of oppression manifest in our sexual culture - from racist microaggressions, to fatphobic acts of aggression, and ableist dehumanising behaviour. An intersectional, sex-positive, kink-positive work, the book also examines how white supremacy, transphobia, biphobia, homophobia, and misogyny are driving forces behind sexual violence. 
 
Rough is an urgent, timely call for change to the systems that oppress us all. 
 
'An incredible investigation into a frighteningly common part of our sexual experience,' Dr Fern Riddell 
 
'Rough speaks to how many women often feel after sexual encounters ...This book is excellent and demonstrates just how valid those feelings are,' Adele Walton, founder of Humanitarian Hotgirl

Rough is one of the most comprehensive and interesting books I've ever read. I recommend it to all my friends and patients as essential reading in the world of psychosexual therapy. I cannot say enough good things about it. You won't put it down.

Gigi Engle, author of 'All The F*ing Mistakes'

An unflinching examination of the damaging sexual narratives often hidden or less talked about, Rough looks at the way culture and gender perceptions influence our behaviour in bed. Thompson's writing is burning and unapologetic, and contracts with sharpness and verve. An important, thought-provoking read which renders systems and personal attitudes, and starts a helpful dialogue (in a hope to) to kindle positive change.

This is indispensable reading for anyone who wants both breadth and detail in how sexual consent is expressed, understood and all too often violated. Rough is inclusive and sympathetic writing that, importantly, remains sex positive and optimistic for a future with more knowledge and more power. It's consent writing that would make anyone want to change the world from one of the UK's leading voices on the issue.

Sophia Smith Galer, author of 'Losing It'

Rough speaks to how many women often feel after sexual encounters - violated but unsure of exactly why, and whether our feelings are valid. This book is excellent and demonstrates just how valid those feelings are.

Adele Walton, founder of Humanitarian Hotgirl

An incredible investigation into a frighteningly common part of our sexual experience; determined to give ownership back to those who have had their agency stolen from them.

2021's most important book about sex.

Rachel Thompson is a journalist specialising in reporting on sex, relationships, and gender. Rachel is the senior culture reporter at Mashable, and has written for The Sunday Times, CNN, ELLE, The Telegraph, and HuffPost. She is also the host of History Becomes Her podcast, which explores the inspiring stories behind women currently making history.

Rachel Thompson

Reclaiming Intimacy in a Disconnected World

Situationships, ghosting, therapy speak, monogamy or non-monogamy... Dating is hard. But why? Dating & sex journalist Rachel Thompson investigates the data science and mindset behind modern relationships. 
 
Casting her gaze back to the decade since Tinder first launched, The Love Fix explores how apps have shaped our expectations, self-esteem, and search for intimacy – with particular emphasis on the experiences of queer people, people of colour, people with mental illnesses and other marginalised groups. Weaving true stories of people looking for love with cutting-edge research and interviews from sociologists and mental health professionals, this book will help you to: 
<ul><li>understand how dating apps really work (or don't!)</li><li>recognise the psychology behind prospective matches' behaviour</li><li>honour your own needs and protect your mental health while dating</li><li>find your way back towards intimacy, with others and yourself</li></ul>

Rachel Thompson

The Love Fix

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