It’s been twenty years since her mother was photographed, blood-soaked, outside the family home. A famous TV food personality, she fled the country. Since that time, the girl has grown up. She’s bought an apartment, learned her own cooking style, fallen in love. She lives a quiet life, working as a copywriter for a health insurance company. She’s found happiness, finally.

But strange things are in the air. Her easygoing boyfriend has started sleeping with men. Her mother is selling the infamous family home. And a glamorous, pregnant neighbour has moved into the apartment downstairs, calling into question everything the girl believes about her own desires.

Among conspiracies, dubious loyalties, and mercenary impulses, how do we work out who is worthy of our devotion and who is just a fan? Shirley charts a search for meaning in a world where the fracturing of ambitions – work and purpose, real estate and home, family and love – has left us uncertain how to recognise ourselves.

Popularised by the Dunbar Number, which suggests that our cognitive limit for maintaining stable social relationships is around 150 people, this book is a fascinating if highly cerebral and scientific take on friendship, trust, loneliness and social cohesion. Its academic exploration provides a practical guide  and homage to human connection for anyone looking to understand the nuances of friendship groups.

This is a practical, realistic and very honest approach to relationships based on Matthew being devastated by his own divorce which he really didn’t see coming as he thought he was a ‘good guy’. With a strong emphasis on active listening and practicing gratitude for your partner to build emotional connection, this book has something that all relationships, married or not, can get some good take away messages and practises from.

Many people think you can get the gist of this book by reading Gemma’s article featured in Harper’s Bazaar in 2017, however, her follow up book to the article is well worth the read. There are many fantastic quotes to reflect on, but the biggest take away is making the invisible, visible. The domestic labour divide is visible and correctable, emotional labour, not so easily defined, until now. “Emotional labour is emotional management and life management combined. It is the unpaid, invisible work we do to keep those around us comfortable and happy.” If the well thumbed copy from the library is anything to go by, this book resonates!

This book invites us to question the way we have been taught to think of value. It is well researched and sheds a timely light on the hidden toll of emotional labour. It clearly articulates the gender bias and misogyny underlying what the author calls “extractive emotional capitalism.” The book investigates the roots of gender inequality but also provides answers to the concern.

Discussing sex miseducation, the origins of insecure sexuality, attachment theory and more, Casey draws inspiration from her personal journey , academic research and community cultivated knowledge. Framed by anti-oppressive and trauma informed practise this book is an absolute must read.

A heartfelt, sincere, straightforward, and practical book that has started a global movement to end abuse. Written by a man for men, there is however, something in this book for everyone about healthy relationships with its honest depiction of healing being messy, raw, vulnerable and taking time.

This highly approachable book is empathetic, accessible and filled with real life scenarios. Its non-judgemental tone encourages readers to be open about approaching common fears and taboos surrounding sex. The relatable tone helps to explore and articulate sexual desires and boundaries, as well as understanding a partner’s needs.

An honest and insightful look into families, parenting and gender identity. This novel is emotional, thought-provoking and heartwarming. The complex, beautiful and genuine characters will stay with you long after this book is finished.

A beautiful hardcover book set out as an illustrated guide to feelings and relationships. This tender hearted and inclusive book opens the conversation in friendships and romantic relationships by inviting readers in to reflect and consider in this is a sweet, comforting and engaging book.

A raw, honest, contemporary memoir and debut. The narrative is engaging, blending personal anecdotes with broader reflections on cultural and societal norms. Tobi’s journey of self-discovery and exploration of their sexuality and gender identity is both humorous and candid.

Combining expertise in clinical psychology with holistic health, this book reflects the idea that cultivating self-love and self-compassion can transform your relationships with others. Key concepts are understanding and healing your past, cultivating self-love and developing self-awareness. Huge on Instagram Nicole, aka the Holistic Psychologist provides in depth insight into living a more authentic life.

Dive into the glamour and turmoil of icon Evelyn Hugo's Hollywood life from the 50s to the 80s. Follow the wild and engaging stories and marriages as she aims to follow her passions in acting and her truth of love and intimacy. You won't be able to put this book down.

Told in the first person, this rich, heartwarming coming of age, Aboriginal, queer story is authentic, vulnerable and believable.

A heartwrenching and beautiful story of a young orphan coming of age as a Muslim in America. Asghar's lyrical novel transports you into Kausar's world and invites you to sit with her as she grows and grapples with gender, family, sisterhood and love.

A super clear, truthful, liberating and accessible book. Accesses our why and how to truly embody pleasure. Introduces a radical paradigm called sexual intelligence which is classified into five pillars—embodiment, health, collaboration, self-knowledge, and self-acceptance.

A foundational book in understanding the interplay between emotions and intelligence. Provides valuable insights into improving emotional skills and emotional competence. Emphasis self-awareness and self-regulation and expands into organizations aiming to cultivate a more emotionally intelligent workforce.

Social psychologist and researcher Justin Lehmiller conducted one of the largest surveys on sexual fantasies in the United States, involving over 4,000 participants. This book aims to shed light on the nature of sexual desire, debunk myths, and provide practical advice. It’s cleverly packed with modern references to popular media, including movies, TV shows, and books, to illustrate how sexual fantasies are portrayed and perceived in modern culture.

Highly recommend for anyone looking to improve their dating life with insights from Angela who literally went on 100 dates. In terms of understanding the dynamics of modern romance it’s a valuable resource and for finding practical advice rooted in real-life experience and scientific research.