3 comments about The Lover Within: Opening to Energy in Sexual Practice.

1. I read this book with a skeptical eye. After all, so many people talk about "energy" but don't teach anything useful.

   Henderson seems to be the exception. Her very clear exercises teach about energy, how it interacts with the body, how it defines our boundaries, and how it permits us to merge with others or to maintain a space of our own.

   The book was so good I sought her out. I learned genuinely useful and compassionate energy work from her, and each lesson made me realize how much of her knowledge she has put in this book. This is American Tantra, taught by a woman who knows it.




2. It is worthwhile to read *The Lover Within.* It is even more worthwhile to try one, two... or even all 76 practical exercises. Dr. Hendersons' kind guidance will lead you from one to the next refining and ripening of energetic experience...
   
   The beauty of Julie Henderson's language and her unusual way of expressing herself take the reader gently on the path of exploring the powerful exercises she describes. The abundant reminders of what to pay attention to and how, and the sure touch of Dr. Henderson personal experiences tempt you to try out what she is writing about.
   
   *The Lover Within* calls for rereading, unexpectedly, as your experience ripens. Each time, each approach, is surprising and new - a rediscovery as much as a rereading.



3. This book is an excellent how-to manual for working with your sexual energy. It might alter both how you think about love and sex and what you do in intimate practice. The focus is on neither manipulative technique nor personal history but on the process of energy itself. It provides exercises to be experienced alone or with a partner and offers instruction on how to move, collect, heighten, and share energy.

2 comments about Kama Sutra: A Pillow Book (Pillow Books).

1. This book is pocket size. There were drawings on every page, but they were not realisitic - most times the point of entry appeared to be at the female's belly button. Alot of them looked very similar. The text did not give details of the position only a hint at the idea of it. Not a good read or any good photos. I returned it.



2. I loved this little itty bitty book. It is Erotically charged and lavishly illustrated. It's well written and in a tasteful manner. This great and informative love making manual makes a great intimate gift for that special someone. My boyfriend gave it me and reading it was like an electrical charge. I couldn't wait for him to come home. It's a small book loaded with information that can be very useful for women who want to rock someone world. I loved it and I'm planning on buying a few for christmas to pass along to my girlfriends.

5 comments about The Secret Behind The Secret Law of Attraction.

1. "Wishin and hopin and thinking and prayin .... Won't get you into his heart."
   
   From Brenda Lee to Dusty Springfield to The MerseyBeats, how many people have to tell you that you have to actually do something to get what you want? Well if you are not into oldies pop radio, a new book has arrived on the scene to remind you that you are actually going to have to get off your butt to achieve your goals.
   
   The authors of The Secret Behind the Secret Law of Attraction (Kevin Hogan, Bob Beverley, Dave Lakhani and Blair Warren) logically dismantle the claims made in The Secret, starting with proof that the Law of Attraction is not a physical law at all. From there the authors add proof of faulty quantum physics, misleading and falsified references and outright stupidity. Of course, people who want to believe that they can achieve anything they want simply by visualizing and accepting are not going to be deterred from the teachings of The Secret by something as mundane as logical argument. The authors are on a fool's errand and know it. But they felt compelled to speak out nonetheless.
   
   This is not to say that the authors don't find some value in The Secret. Visualization and goal setting have long been tools towards achieving more and greater things. People with a sense of purpose in their lives reach out and live larger lives and The Secret encourages people to do this.
   
   The aspect of The Secret that seems to have been the catalyst for the book is that the people behind The Secret blame the victims of crime and illness by saying those people attracted misfortune to them. The authors of The Secret Behind the Secret Law of Attraction cry foul out of a sense of common decency and compassion. More people should be doing so.
   
   But the real value of the book is the analysis of how The Secret was and is marketed along with a stunning comparison of that marketing with how a cult recruits and brainwashes its followers.
   
   For anyone who wants to learn how to ethically launch a marketing campaign that will create a loyal client base, this is the book to read. The Secret is a marketing phenomenon. So was the Pet Rock. Take The Secret as a great marketing example and apply it to your business. The Secret Behind The Secret Law of Attraction will show you how.



2. Are state lotteries really a competition of who can visualize the hardest? I think not, but I heard this premise from a "Law of Attraction" platform seller.
   
   Yes, positive thinking increases your likelihood of "attracting" positive results, but this is not a law of physics with replicable results. And, taking The Secret too seriously leads to rediculous assumptions. The victims of Virginia Tech did NOT "attract" their deaths. The Secret Behind The Secret discusses the ramifications of a well marketed movie taken too seriously by many. For the sake of your sanity and critical reasoning skills, if you have watched The Secret more than three times you need to buy this book.
   
   I like The Secret. I'll watch it with friends. I'll give the movie to friends I imagine benefiting from concepts in The Secret. However, Law of Attraction zealots are like Christian Scientists who won't see a doctor to get an antibiotic when they are really sick.
   
   If what you are thinking and doing aren't getting you the specific measurable results you expect, consider getting more scientific and taking action. Prayer may work, but simply thinking about winning doesn't make winners of all the lottery buyers.
   
   No matter how much I visualize flying, gravity still works.
   
   On the other hand:
   "More people are humbugged by believing in too little than believing too much." --P.T. Barnum



3. "The Secret" (By Rhonda Byrne) is one of the Amazon's bestselling books & dvds, but the most of the reader's reviews suggest that there's something wrong with the underlying premise, the Law of Attraction (LOA). For the uninitiated, here's what the LOA teaches:
   
   You're a Magnet! Thinking good thoughts creates positive vibrational energy that enables you to attract your dream lover, wealth, success and happiness beyond your wildest dreams.
   
   You're a Creator! You can think anything you want into existence. After all, the Law of Attraction is a scientific fact, just like the law of gravity.
   
   You're got the Power! Forget about your higher power, the universe is at your command. Think, speak and write down your intentions... and don't forget to give thanks in advance for what's coming to you. Your "good vibrations" will be richly rewarded, but be sure to leave the outcome open-ended, so whatever happens is in your best interest.
   
   You're a Look-the-Other-Wayer! Don't focus on anyone but yourself. That's right, look the other way when you see obesity, rape, abuse, injustice or crime. It's best to protect yourself by being in a positive vibrational energy all the time. The risk of attracting something you don't want is too great, so make it your practice to look the other way.
   
   You're responsible! Yes, everything that happens in your life is your responsibility. Even events that seem out of your control are brought on by the magnetic energy of your thoughts. The downside is that you are also partially responsible for the Collective Social Consciousness that says, "It's not my problem." Yes, you're partially to blame for the holocaust, but don't worry about that. Let someone else worry about it who is ignorant about vibrational energy.
   
   If you're reading this and shaking your head in unbelief, "The Secret Behind the Secret LOA" is for you. The book takes a critical look at "The Secret" as it examines it's magical thinking, something-for-nothing message, get-rich-quick appeal, and the "you're-one-product-away-from-success" upsell that's behind the bestselling book and movie.
   
   Surprisingly, the authors admit that they'd love for the "Law of Attraction" to be possible. Contributing psychologist Kevin Hogan admits to doing a visualization exercise after discovering he had hyperkeratosis / Leukoplakia. Hogan found the surgical procedure for removing leukoplakia in a medical textbook, and memorized it. He then mentally performed the surgery on himself (by visualizing the operation in his mind) 50 times a day. When Hogan returned to the doctor, it was discovered that his hyperkeratosis was gone. It's a medical miracle that Hogan attributes to the "Attraction Factor" and priming (or using mental imagery to prepare your mind for the best possible outcome.) Hogan suggests the attraction factor is worth experimenting with, but admits it does not work all the time.
   
   There are lots of gems in this book. Blair Warren says we think 60,000 thoughts daily, making self-monitoring (and consistent "good vibrations") just about impossible. Thinking isn't always black and white; as many things in life may feel bad (exercise, fasting, staying on a budget, etc) yet may be good for us. Dave Lakhani offers compelling reasons why "The Secret" resembles a cult, and suggests six alternative ways to get the edge. Bob Beverly shares seven keys to success and well-being.
   
   Each of the four authors (Hogan, Warren, Lakhani, Beverly) take turns writing chapters, making this book a lot like a roundtable discussion. Together, they knock down the "house of cards" created by the Secret and it's followers. By reading this book, you too will be ready to offer an intelligent and sensitive rebuttal to "The Secret." Plus, think of all the time, money and energy you'll save by avoiding "Law of Attraction" books, cds, and seminars. That makes this book worth every penny of its cover price.
   
   This book is recommended for anyone who had read or watched "The Secret" and wants to work through the issues surrounding the Law of Attraction. Personally, I've struggled with these issues myself, and this book really opened my eyes. Now, I realize that it's good to dream about what I want to accomplish in life, but "good vibrations" are not enough to make my dreams a reality.



4. I'm a rather eclectic reader but this one is a bit beyond my understanding. Positive thinking is one thing, magical thinking is another, which this book seems to endorse. That the unfortunate people of Rwanda and their plight was the result of "faulty" thinking? Really!!
   The crux of this book in my opinion is embodied in pages 113-115 on the "Law of Extraction"...describes this book and all books, DVD's etc. dealing with this "Secret Law of Attraction" perfectly. Life is a series of choices..always..good or bad. And consequences stem directly from those choices people make...simple as that. No brainer..duhhh, as they say. This is nothing more than a twist on the "name it, claim it" feel-good theology rampant in the world today. Don't waste your money on this one.



5. This is nothing but a rehash of New Age teaching (repackaged Hinduism) sprinkled with the occult.
   
   If you are a seeker of truth, THIS IS NOT IT. Don't waste your money.

5 comments about Flogging: The Basics and Beyond (SMTech Educational).

1. In what promises to be a very exciting series, noted lifestyle presenter Joseph W. Bean has been enlisted to launch a series of instructional DVD/Book combinations that will provide safe and easy to follow instructions in BDSM play. The concept is simple: videotape a presentation in front of a studio audience, giving thorough and uncomplicated directions, and then transcribe the affair in a book that you can follow along while viewing the DVD in the privacy of your own home. The second volume in the DemLab series is "Flogging: The Basics and Beyond."
   
   Mr. Bean is an expert presenter and more than an expert when it comes to flogging. Having already written a book on the topic ("Flogging" published in 2000 and also locatable on Amazon), standing in front of an audience and a trio of cameramen is an obvious (and for Mr. Bean, casual) progression. His two attractive subjects allow him to demonstrate the fine art of wailing on your friends. The DVD itself is better than an hour in length, and the book is well apportioned with color pictures. In addition to the transcript of the demonstration itself, there are additional notations.
   
   Where this DemLab volume really stands out is the DVD presentation. The final 15 minutes during the flogging of Adam show that, when the chemistry is right, even "The Basics" can go farther and into deeper territory that you plan on. Suffice to say that things between Mr. Bean and Adam get intense, and the crowd certainly got more than it came for.
   
   With a Volume One utilizing Mr. Bean's skills in the mummification arena already available and future releases promising ropeplay, fireplay, spanking and more, the DemLab series already looks like an essential series in the making. All in all, Volumes One and Two are a great way to introduce yourself to some spicier aspects of interpersonal play, and good for the adult entertainment value.



2. I purchased this book in hopes of finding something that will educate new comers to the world of SM; Even in today's open world of information, this book/DVD is a rare find.
   
   When I recieved the book and DVD (if it is not clear this is a Book and DVD SET) I instant put in the DVD and sat down expecting a very dry tutorial; This was so far from the reality though. J.W. Bean is definately entertaining while getting across crusial information and safety tips. There is even a bit of world history (that I cross checked for accuracy) of where some of the flogging traditions origionate from I would recomend this set to anyone who is interested in flogging no matter their experience level.
   
   The book is a quick read but is really an over view of the DVD, which is nice to have, but do not just look at one or the other. However, I strongly suggest reviewing both the book and DVD.
   
   Play Safe.



3. I really enjoyed this DVD/Book combo. In my opinion, it's one of the better flogging information and how-to books out there because it's not like a boring instruction manual that uses big words and is hard to understand. Joseph W. Bean talks to you (the studio audience) in a way anyone can understand. He jokes around a bit, and is very detailed and informative. The book is basically a read-along for the DVD, but I suggest you read the book too, because it has a little more information than what Joseph says in the DVD.
   
   In the beginning, there is an introduction about Joseph W. Bean and safety tips about no-strike zones, ankles, bleeding, etc. On the DVD, it begins with Joseph going through what you need to know about flogging: What You're Doing (the scene you are creating, from painful punishment to sensual massage), The Body Itself (how the body reacts to stimuli), The Person Inside (knowing that bottoms can lie about their pain tolerance), The Tools At Hand (from novelty floggers to vests, spatulas, belts or pipe insulation), and Techniques (*demonstrations*).
   
   When Joseph gets into the Technique part of the DVD, he then brings out a [female] "willing victim" named Elorin. He explains the muscles in the back, and then begins to do a Soft flogging demonstration on her. He explains what he is doing throughout the demo. Then brings in a male volunteer named Adam, who has never been flogged before. Joseph then preceeds to "take him the whole way". There are many still frame photos in the book of the flogging from the DVD. After the demonstrations, there is a Q&A section that the studio audience is allowed to ask questions, that are also answered in the book. It also has a section in the book that explains the Tools used in the flogging demo.
   
   Overall, I think this is a great combo. I recommend this DVD/Book to everyone, from tops to bottoms, beginners to experts and everyone in between that is in the leat bit interested in the art of FLOGGING.



4. I won't repeat what the others have said. I agree with it all.
   
   I will instead say that I bought this book/DVD combo with the express purpose of learning how to do flogging safely, sanely, and with maximum enjoyment. My submissive loves a good flogging and I knew nothing about the techniques or practices. So I got this set.
   
   WOW. Not only was it informative in both safety issues and technique, it was entertaining, funny, and erotic. By the time I finished it (and watched it a couple more times) I felt I was ready to proceed.
   
   I bought a nice flogger and practiced on some stationary objects to get my aim and style down. Then I surprised my submissive with his first flogging at my hand. He was VERY impressed with my skills, and he's something of a connoisseur of the art. I have nothing but this book/DVD set and a bit of practice to thank for his compliments.
   
   If you want to add flogging to your playtime, this is an EXCELLENT place to start!



5. I thought this book was very good. Iam a beginner and have never done this. So it helped me out alot. My first play mate would also agree Im sure if asked. She enjoyed the flogging very much. The book goes along great with the DVD. A must buy for any new flogger out there.

5 comments about The Hookup Handbook: A Single Girl's Guide to Living It Up.

1. This book is ridiculous. I can't believe it ever got published--it's that poorly written. Please don't waste your money on this book!



2. This has to be the worst book I've ever attempted to read. I wasted $15 for nothing. This is not a "guide" to anything but a bunch of nonsense strategically arranged into silly little subtitled chapters with a sad attempt at using catchy humor! I made it to page 40, flipped through the rest, and then threw it right in the trash feeling like I wish I could somehow get my money back.



3. I read this book. It increased my closing ratio tenfold. Thanks girls !!



4. This is without a doubt one of the funniest books I've ever read. You have to go into reading something like this expecting laughs, not advice. The authors tell stories in a smart and satirical way that many people can relate to. If you are looking for a lighthearted, fun read this is the book for you. If you are looking for some hardcore relationship advice you should work on getting a life.



5. I really enjoyed reading this book, I read it in less than a week, is very entertaining and easy to read. I am sure that when you finish reading it your perspective about hookups will change, your love for yourself will increase. It's a GREAT fun book.

4 comments about Wonder: Moments that Keep You Falling in Love with Life.

1. I love the book A Touch of Wonder, but after looking at the table of contents for this book, Wonder: Moments that Keep you Falling in Love with Life, I realized that this is the identical book as A Touch of Wonder. ....it just has a different date and a bit different title on it. I was hoping this would be a new book by Arthur Gordon. I'm very disappointed since he's passed away that there won't be anymore books by him.



2. Once again Gordon has found an apt title for his inspirational book. It should be in everyone's library.



3. I read this book in 1974 when it was titled A Touch Of Wonder. I am, to this day, using the things I read in it. It was a life changing book in some ways. Not practicing "the deadly art of non-living" has produced some wonderful walking-in-the-rain type memories. I highly recommend this book to anyone who would like to see the wonder in life.



4. I read this book when I was in high school and always tried to keep a copy handy over the years, but found I had given my last one away (again) when looking for it recently. I was very delighted to find a hard cover version, although as someone else mentioned, this book was previously called "A Touch of Wonder". The book can be read easily in one long afternoon or read randomly one chapter at a time if you so choose.
   
   I have had my own 'touch of wonder' moments since first having read this book, and I throughly believe to some degree I owe the recognition of most of them to Mr. Gordon. I would have liked to have met him at some point, but was quite disappointed to hear he had passed away. Don't miss this opportunity to read Mr. Gordon's recollective stories of defining or unforgettable moments in his life - they will help you stop and recognize them in your own life as well. Happy reading!

5 comments about How to Satisfy A Man Every Time.

1. I can't say enough bad things about this book. The author directly says that ALL men WILL cheat if they are not COMPLETELY satisfied sexually. And it's their wives' fault! I thought there would be a lot of sexual techniques to learn in here. No! She recommended role-playing, so sex would be like being with different women. The whole point of this book... no matter what a wife does for her husband (cooks, cleans, takes care of the children, etc) it will NEVER be good enough because he needs to have lots of sexual excitement or he WILL find it elsewhere. Love has nothing to do with it. At all. Save yourself the money and find a better book. The Guide to Gettign It On is fantastic. SO is Pure Sex by Anne Hooper.



2. I purchased this book out of curiousity when I was about 16, to learn the stuff about sex that they don't say in health class. I have had this book since then. I couldn't get through it then and I still can't now everytime I try to read this book I get an urge to strangle the author within the first few pages and she isn't talking about anything I didn't know as a virgin at 16. I had read better books then and I I am now almost 30, everytime I try to give this book a second chance I still can't get through it. I'll save you the money, here's what the book is about, you a woman busy with running the house, the kids and your own life should you be so bold as to attempt to have one, must submit and drop everything so that you can satisfy your man whenever he wants or he will cheat or leave you and according to Ms. Hayden, it's all your fault. Meanwhile, in my life I learned before i hit 25 that a guy doesn't need a reason to cheat if he's a cheater. I hope her book "How to Satisfy a Woman Everytime, and Have Her Beg For More," told the man that if he can't handle a strong woman who can do it all without her he should grow up. There are better books out there, I have read them. How To Make Love To A Man by Alexander Penny, 203 Ways to Drive A Man Wild In Bed, The Kama Surta.... any book but this one.



3. I not only don't agree with a lot of what is said in this book based upon personal experience, but I also learned nothing. It is assuming that women are still in the stone age of count the cracks on the wall sex and this is not true of today's typical woman and yet adultery is still ramapant! Therefore boring sex is not the only reason that a man can go astray and honestly is not the main one. Sex outside the marriage is often a symptom of a greater problem. I wish it were so simple, just have exciting sex and your marriage will be affair proof. But sadly, it is not.



4. Noticed how all the women rate this book poorly and men are giving it a good rating? That's because these women still don't get it. They are in denial. Women desire their men and men desire sex. If you don't give it up, then yes, there is a good chance he will get it somewhere else. Pay attention! Read the book...take the advice. If your relationship doesn't turn around, then he has already cheated on you and someone else is making your man happy.



5. I got to say this ranks as one of the worst books I have ever picked up! It isn't worth your money so save it. I expected the book to be full of ideas, tips, techniques to add to my bedroom adventures. Instead I got a book that holds a wife responsible for a husband cheating! Get over it, as an adult in a committed relationship each partner is responsible for his or her own actions. This book is actually demeaning not only to women but men as well. It makes men sound like complete idiots that go through life letting their [...] lead the way. The generalizations in this book are ridiculous and frankly I don't know how it got published!
   
   If you are looking for a book that will provide some spicy ideas check out TICKLE HIS PICKLE if you want a selection of new positions try Ride 'Em Cowgirl! Sex Position Secrets For Better Bucking

5 comments about Baby Boomer Bachelorette: How to Have Sex at Least Once More Before You Die.

1. Single baby-boomers re-entering the world of over-forty dating will find Patsy Stagner's Baby Boom Bachelorette a unique guide charting the different world of midlife dating. From assessing 'baggage' and whom to date to locating bachelors and getting noticed, Stagner provides many candid tips based on practical real-world experience.



2. I was very impressed with this author's straight-forward and sincere, warm and funny tone. This is one of the best books I've read for those of us who've found ourselves in the "over the (fill in the blank)" category of dating singles. Stagner has some of the best advice I've read on the subject. She is brave enough to go against conventional wisdom with tips like not always telling the truth (about age, for example) and why we don't really need self-esteem to succeed in the dating scene. Buy it for yourself, buy it for a friend or your newly-divorced sister. Even the married can benefit by the book's candid (and did I say funny?) wisdom.



3. A tell it like it is fun read full of wit and wisdom.



4. "What You Learn. That it's never too late to have a happy dating (or sex) life - but this guide addresses much more, urging those in the post-40 set to alter their perspectives on getting older and embrace the process with humor and heart. With solid advice on getting back in the dating game (and even playing it better than before), as well as useful tips for looking your best and cultivating a positive attitude."
   
   -- Alexa Joy Sherman, "Ages of Enlightenment," SHAPE May 2005



5. This is one of the best books I've read on middle-aged internet dating. The author's tone and style are delightful and it's full of great information.

2 comments about Dare to Connect: Reaching Out in Romance, Friendship, and the Workplace.

1. I didn't think "Dare TO Connect" was quite as good as Susan Jeffers' book "Feel the Fear". But she gave me many ideas to think about in communicating with others. The main idea of the book is to understand yourself and reach out to others. It is also a spiritual book about our Higher Self. It has given me a better understanding of how to treat others as part of God's plan. We are all here for each other.



2. This is one of the most important books I have ever read, and I know it has been so for many of my friends. I say this because I started a weekly discussion group centered around this book and many people would tell me how profoundly grateful they were to be exposed to the concepts here.

   I don't think it's fair to try to compare this book to her earlier "Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway" because that book is about overcoming fears that inhibit you, and this one is about new attitudes to make your social life flourish. There are a few parallels, but the books only compliment eachother.

   The most important concept here for me was that of "everbody training" - the idea that social situations become more rewarding and less stressful if, instead of trying to create external successes, you focus on creating positive situations for everyone around you. Instead of pressuring yourself to get a woman's phone number at a party (getting something for yourself), make a point of helping her to have a good time there, even if it isn't with you (giving to the community). The neat thing about this is that it becomes easier to make contact with new people AND makes you a more desirable friend at the same time.

   The author does NOT present gimmicks or strategies that only work for confident people in unusual situations: it ALL applies to everyone and helps build your confidence about yourself and your abilities in social situations. One caution: don't think you can read this book and suddenly go from being a shy nerd to a confident person with dozens of friends overnight! It takes time, practice and may need to be integrated into one's self-improvement efforts.

5 comments about Kim Cattrall Sexual Intelligence.

1. Admittedly, if you are looking for a book of pornography, this book will certainly disappoint you. What this book is instead, is an interesting and colorful coffee table book on the subject of human sexuality. With chapters on desire, messaging (seductiveness through appearance), arousal, fantasy and release, sexuality is explored in an interesting, non-clinical manner. Along the way, the reader is treated to many interesting pictures, both ancient and modern.
   
   Overall, I found this to be an interesting book. It is not a "How-To" book by any stretch of the imagination, but it makes a wonderfully sensuous and entertaining read.



2. Miss Cattrall is beautiful and makes her points well. Informative and Entertaining.



3. Recommended not only for women, but especially men. Men be a 5 star lover to the woman in your life, read the book.



4. Plenty of books have been written exploring sexual behavior and health, but SEXUAL INTELLIGENCE is something different: it does into the HBO special of the same name and it explores the origins of sexual desire, delving into both history and health to consider sexual behavior patterns from eye contact to kissing and beyond. From behaviors of particular sexual orientations to human body reactions, SEXUAL INTELLIGENCE pairs color photos throughout with excellent, artistic insights.
   
   Diane C. Donovan
   California Bookwatch



5. I somehow knew when I bought it that I was falling into a marketing trick. The title is extremely misleading as it hardly develops the concept of what is "sexual intelligence". Ms Cattrall basically states that our sexual emotions, feelings and perceptions are guided by the mind, which is kind of obvious, but any original conclusion or insight is absent from the text. That aside, the book is read in 1 hour and it feels like talking with a friend about this topic, and even if no new ideas are developed during the conversation, is fun to have it anyway. After all we are talking about sex.