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Lust: Pleasure, Performance, Power
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Expected 13 Oct 26A bold look at the unexpected ways porn shapes our lives, with a feminist defense, drawn from Erika Lust’s decades in adult filmmaking, that argues for a more ethical porn that can transform sexual politics
For more than two decades, Erika Lust has been pushing back against shame and stereotypes, building a new kind of adult cinema—one that is feminist, ethical, and deeply human. In Porn, Pleasure, Power, she tells the story of how a shy “good girl” from Sweden came to create one of the most talked-about studios in the world. She takes us behind the scenes of her films, where every detail the casting, the consent talks, the way a set can feel safe, playful, and alive. We meet performers who are treated as collaborators, not objects, and glimpse the passion and chaos of making art about sex.
Lust makes the provocative argument that porn is not the root of society’s problems but a mirror of them. Instead of scapegoating it and missing the chance to address those problems, Erika offers pragmatic solutions for how we can develop and improve the industry. She rejects censorship and moral-panic legislation, which history shows only makes things worse, and instead points to the power of telling more complex, nuanced stories of sex and gender. While sharing openly about her experience as a director, Erika argues that pleasure is not shameful or frivolous but a basic right, and that questions of sexuality and representation are inseparable from our broader culture and politics.
Raw, passionate, and inspiring, Lust is a manifesto for anyone who has ever felt ashamed of desire, as well as a reminder that telling the truth about sex can change the world.
For more than two decades, Erika Lust has been pushing back against shame and stereotypes, building a new kind of adult cinema—one that is feminist, ethical, and deeply human. In Porn, Pleasure, Power, she tells the story of how a shy “good girl” from Sweden came to create one of the most talked-about studios in the world. She takes us behind the scenes of her films, where every detail the casting, the consent talks, the way a set can feel safe, playful, and alive. We meet performers who are treated as collaborators, not objects, and glimpse the passion and chaos of making art about sex.
Lust makes the provocative argument that porn is not the root of society’s problems but a mirror of them. Instead of scapegoating it and missing the chance to address those problems, Erika offers pragmatic solutions for how we can develop and improve the industry. She rejects censorship and moral-panic legislation, which history shows only makes things worse, and instead points to the power of telling more complex, nuanced stories of sex and gender. While sharing openly about her experience as a director, Erika argues that pleasure is not shameful or frivolous but a basic right, and that questions of sexuality and representation are inseparable from our broader culture and politics.
Raw, passionate, and inspiring, Lust is a manifesto for anyone who has ever felt ashamed of desire, as well as a reminder that telling the truth about sex can change the world.
- GenresNonfiction
256 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication October 13, 2026
About the author
Erika Lust
20 books91 followersErika Lust is a Swedish filmmaker, writer, and producer known for creating erotic cinema that centers storytelling, female desire, and inclusive representation. She is the founder of ERIKALUST, the premium streaming platform and production studio behind award-winning adult cinema, and the creator of XConfessions, the acclaimed series based on real-life fantasies submitted by audiences. Since the release of her debut short film The Good Girl in 2004, her work has gained international recognition and has been screened at film festivals worldwide. In addition to filmmaking, she is the author of several books on sexuality and co-founder of The Porn Conversation, a platform dedicated to sex education and porn literacy. In 2019, she was named one of the BBC’s 100 Women, a list that recognizes influential women worldwide.
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September 15, 2026Written by Erika Lust, a porn director and stringent advocate for a more ethical porn industry, Lust addresses, deconstructs, and dispels certain prejudices and assumptions surrounding and within the adult filmmaking industry. Lust herself unpacks her shy Swedish childhood, her own experiences with sex and film, and how she grew to be one of the most innovative porn directors and the creator of an innovative and famous film studio. The book offers progressive and knowledgeable solutions to the taboos and suspensions of ethics in the industry from the point of view of someone deeply experienced and widely respected in its stigmatized universe. I did find my advanced copy to have a striking amount of typos, which I hope and anticipate that they will have been fixed before the publication date. The book, while often being more anecdotal than scientific, is resultantly very readable and provides many useful essential insights into an industry shown often to be dangerously stigmatized and misunderstood.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A bold “blend of memoir and feminist manifesto” exploring feminine sexuality and “ethical adult filmmaking” is a book that is not for every reader. I requested the ARC (my thanks to NetGalley and Metropolitan Books) because I like to read different things, I enjoy memoirs and l like to explore topics that may sometimes be outside my comfort zone as this one was in a way.
The author is a Swedish ethical adult filmmaker based in Spain. Her films are built on stories exploring female desire. She writes about her desire to empower women to not be ashamed of their sexuality and buy into distorted views that shame women for even having a sexual side. That’s the bare bones synopsis of the book. Lust examine the adult film industry giving pros and cons but only supporting films which meet her criteria for being ethical. I thought she made some good points and for those interested in exploring their feminine sexuality these may resonate.
The one point I do agree on is what happened to women even having a sexuality? In the 70s when the women’s movement was taking off, the Boston Women’s Health Collective produced a book called “Our Bodies, Ourselves.” It was pretty far out there at the time giving women the opportunity to understand their bodies. While Lust goes beyond this, I kept thinking about that book (which I bought for 35 cents) and how repressed women were then as well as now about our bodies. I’m not advocating anything written in the book but I do agree our male-dominated religions (let’s face it all of them are) made sex a sin unless used for procreation or outside marriage. In that view for women to have any sexual side is not living up to some antiquated Victorian ideal - though Victoria was pretty active sexually when Albert was alive.
As said above, this book isn’t for everyone but if you are a reader willing to look openly at different perceptions this might be something you’d consider reading.
The author is a Swedish ethical adult filmmaker based in Spain. Her films are built on stories exploring female desire. She writes about her desire to empower women to not be ashamed of their sexuality and buy into distorted views that shame women for even having a sexual side. That’s the bare bones synopsis of the book. Lust examine the adult film industry giving pros and cons but only supporting films which meet her criteria for being ethical. I thought she made some good points and for those interested in exploring their feminine sexuality these may resonate.
The one point I do agree on is what happened to women even having a sexuality? In the 70s when the women’s movement was taking off, the Boston Women’s Health Collective produced a book called “Our Bodies, Ourselves.” It was pretty far out there at the time giving women the opportunity to understand their bodies. While Lust goes beyond this, I kept thinking about that book (which I bought for 35 cents) and how repressed women were then as well as now about our bodies. I’m not advocating anything written in the book but I do agree our male-dominated religions (let’s face it all of them are) made sex a sin unless used for procreation or outside marriage. In that view for women to have any sexual side is not living up to some antiquated Victorian ideal - though Victoria was pretty active sexually when Albert was alive.
As said above, this book isn’t for everyone but if you are a reader willing to look openly at different perceptions this might be something you’d consider reading.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing a free digital review copy. All opinions are my own.
An interesting and informative read. While the book is presented as nonfiction, much of it reads like a memoir, with the author drawing heavily from her personal experiences, relationships and professional evolution over the past two decades.
What resonated with me most was Lust's argument that women should feel empowered to express their desires without shame. Throughout the book, she challenges the cultural expectations that often encourage women to be passive, silent or apologetic about their sexuality. Whether readers agree with all of her conclusions or not, she makes a compelling case that desire is a normal part of being human and that women should not be judged differently than men for expressing it.
I also appreciated her willingness to discuss subjects that are often treated as taboo. Because conversations about sex and pornography can make people uncomfortable, it is rare to encounter such an open examination of sexuality, consent, representation and the ways media shapes our understanding of intimacy and desire.
Because of the subject matter, this may not be a book for everyone. However, I found it engaging, accessible and thought-provoking. More than a discussion of pornography, it is a reflection on personal freedom, cultural attitudes toward sex, and one woman's determination to challenge conventions within an industry that is often misunderstood.
I came away with a better understanding of both the author and the broader conversations surrounding sex, media and power. Even when I didn't fully agree with every argument, I appreciated the opportunity to consider perspectives that are rarely discussed so openly.
An interesting and informative read. While the book is presented as nonfiction, much of it reads like a memoir, with the author drawing heavily from her personal experiences, relationships and professional evolution over the past two decades.
What resonated with me most was Lust's argument that women should feel empowered to express their desires without shame. Throughout the book, she challenges the cultural expectations that often encourage women to be passive, silent or apologetic about their sexuality. Whether readers agree with all of her conclusions or not, she makes a compelling case that desire is a normal part of being human and that women should not be judged differently than men for expressing it.
I also appreciated her willingness to discuss subjects that are often treated as taboo. Because conversations about sex and pornography can make people uncomfortable, it is rare to encounter such an open examination of sexuality, consent, representation and the ways media shapes our understanding of intimacy and desire.
Because of the subject matter, this may not be a book for everyone. However, I found it engaging, accessible and thought-provoking. More than a discussion of pornography, it is a reflection on personal freedom, cultural attitudes toward sex, and one woman's determination to challenge conventions within an industry that is often misunderstood.
I came away with a better understanding of both the author and the broader conversations surrounding sex, media and power. Even when I didn't fully agree with every argument, I appreciated the opportunity to consider perspectives that are rarely discussed so openly.
September 10, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley, Macmillan Audio, and Erika Lust for the ARC (audio) in exchange for my honest review.
I went into this audiobook having no idea who Erika Lust was! But I’m always down for a feminist perspective on women’s health. Because pleasure is apart of our health!
What I found most interesting was the behind-the-scenes perspective. Lust talks about consent, casting, performers as collaborators, and creating sets where people feel respected and safe. It makes the book feel much more grounded than a purely theoretical discussion about “ethical porn.” She’s drawing from decades of actually working within the industry, and whether or not you agree with every conclusion she reaches, there’s something compelling about hearing from someone actively trying to change it from within.
The book also goes well beyond porn itself. It becomes a broader conversation about shame, desire, gender, representation, censorship, and the strange contradictions society has around sex. I especially appreciated her argument that pornography can reflect cultural problems without necessarily being the cause of them. It’s an uncomfortable distinction at times, but that discomfort is part of what makes the book thought-provoking.
This definitely won’t be a book for everyone, and I imagine some readers will strongly disagree with Lust’s perspective. But that almost feels like the point. It isn’t asking you to quietly nod along… it’s asking you to examine where your own beliefs about sex, pleasure, and morality came from. A fascinating read about an industry most of us have opinions about but rarely get to see from the inside.
I went into this audiobook having no idea who Erika Lust was! But I’m always down for a feminist perspective on women’s health. Because pleasure is apart of our health!
What I found most interesting was the behind-the-scenes perspective. Lust talks about consent, casting, performers as collaborators, and creating sets where people feel respected and safe. It makes the book feel much more grounded than a purely theoretical discussion about “ethical porn.” She’s drawing from decades of actually working within the industry, and whether or not you agree with every conclusion she reaches, there’s something compelling about hearing from someone actively trying to change it from within.
The book also goes well beyond porn itself. It becomes a broader conversation about shame, desire, gender, representation, censorship, and the strange contradictions society has around sex. I especially appreciated her argument that pornography can reflect cultural problems without necessarily being the cause of them. It’s an uncomfortable distinction at times, but that discomfort is part of what makes the book thought-provoking.
This definitely won’t be a book for everyone, and I imagine some readers will strongly disagree with Lust’s perspective. But that almost feels like the point. It isn’t asking you to quietly nod along… it’s asking you to examine where your own beliefs about sex, pleasure, and morality came from. A fascinating read about an industry most of us have opinions about but rarely get to see from the inside.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
✦ Book Review: Lust: Pleasure, Performance, Power by Erika Lust
✧ ᴛʜᴀɴᴋ ʏᴏᴜ ꜰᴏʀ ᴛʜᴇ ꜰʀᴇᴇ ʙᴏᴏᴋ, @SimonBooks
➤ 𝚂𝚈𝙽𝙾𝙿𝚂𝙸𝚂
Drawing from her decades of experience as an ethical adult filmmaker, Erika Lust explores the intersections of sexuality, relationships, consent, pleasure, and power. Through personal stories, industry insights, and cultural commentary, she argues for a healthier, more inclusive conversation around sex while encouraging readers to challenge traditional assumptions about intimacy, pornography, and personal agency.
➤ 𝚃𝙷𝙾𝚄𝙶𝙷𝚃𝚂
This isn't a genre I normally gravitate toward, so I went into it with an open mind and a healthy dose of curiosity. While Erika Lust presents her perspective clearly and passionately, I never found much that surprised me. Many of the discussions around women's empowerment, ethical pornography, consent, and challenging cultural norms were exactly the arguments I expected from someone with her background in the adult film industry. Whether readers agree with those viewpoints or not, they are presented consistently and thoughtfully. For me, however, the book never moved beyond those familiar talking points. I kept waiting for a fresh perspective, a memorable insight, or an argument that made me stop and reconsider my own views, but that moment never really arrived. It's competently written and will likely resonate with readers already interested in these subjects, but I ultimately came away feeling that it didn't offer much beyond what I anticipated going in.
✧ ᴛʜᴀɴᴋ ʏᴏᴜ ꜰᴏʀ ᴛʜᴇ ꜰʀᴇᴇ ʙᴏᴏᴋ, @SimonBooks
➤ 𝚂𝚈𝙽𝙾𝙿𝚂𝙸𝚂
Drawing from her decades of experience as an ethical adult filmmaker, Erika Lust explores the intersections of sexuality, relationships, consent, pleasure, and power. Through personal stories, industry insights, and cultural commentary, she argues for a healthier, more inclusive conversation around sex while encouraging readers to challenge traditional assumptions about intimacy, pornography, and personal agency.
➤ 𝚃𝙷𝙾𝚄𝙶𝙷𝚃𝚂
This isn't a genre I normally gravitate toward, so I went into it with an open mind and a healthy dose of curiosity. While Erika Lust presents her perspective clearly and passionately, I never found much that surprised me. Many of the discussions around women's empowerment, ethical pornography, consent, and challenging cultural norms were exactly the arguments I expected from someone with her background in the adult film industry. Whether readers agree with those viewpoints or not, they are presented consistently and thoughtfully. For me, however, the book never moved beyond those familiar talking points. I kept waiting for a fresh perspective, a memorable insight, or an argument that made me stop and reconsider my own views, but that moment never really arrived. It's competently written and will likely resonate with readers already interested in these subjects, but I ultimately came away feeling that it didn't offer much beyond what I anticipated going in.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
While it read more like a memoir, this study on the porn industry was deeply insightful and I believe will act as another opportunity to open up the conversation about sex work for women and queer people. Lust invites you to consider the circumstances that have influenced the world we currently live in, and draws attention to the demands of a quietly controlling industry. She asks you to question not only the common imagery and subjects in pornography, but the implications that manifest as misogyny and hatred in the outside world. It seems as though she intends to leave an overall sentiment of hope and empowerment while encouraging the involvement and advocacy of women in the production of pornography for the sake of improvement.
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
Lust: Pleasure, Performance, and Power by Erika Lust offers a thoughtful and provocative exploration of sexuality, intimacy, and the influence of media on our understanding of desire. Rather than focusing solely on entertainment, the book encourages readers to think critically about consent, communication, gender dynamics, and the role of ethical representation in sexual expression. I appreciated the way the author challenges conventional assumptions while inviting open and respectful conversations about pleasure and relationships. Whether or not readers agree with every perspective presented, the book provides an engaging discussion that encourages reflection on sexuality, power, and personal values.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I was expecting a memoir, porn creation stories, and I got so much more! A feminist manifesto, an ode to porn and a love letter to human sexuality. I did not expect to finish this book feeling more equipped to talk about porn to my kid, and yet I did. I knew Erika's name and website, but discovering her as a person and her brand as a project that grew so much makes me appreciate it even more. The audio version was enjoyable; I was pleasantly surprised at interview post epilogue!
Thank you, Netgalley and Macmillan Audio, for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review
Thank you, Netgalley and Macmillan Audio, for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review
September 13, 2026
I really enjoyed learning about the behind-the-scenes world of consensual, female-directed pornography. Erika Lust offers fascinating insights into the differences between mainstream, male-dominated pornography and female-directed productions. I appreciated how she reminds people that it’s centered around play and exploration. She also provides personal insights into how the industry has impacted her life and relationships.
Thank you Netgalley for providing me with this ARC.
Thank you Netgalley for providing me with this ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
*This was an ARC Goodreads Giveaway*
This was an incredible expose and explanation of what feminist porn means. I was moved by her sharing her own stories as well as her foremothers, and what it means for women to take ownership of their sexuality and suffer consequences in a Patriarchal society. I am impressed by her accomplishments, and appreciate Lust for sharing her stories and experience with the world, on a topic that many people interact with but that few admit to.
This was an incredible expose and explanation of what feminist porn means. I was moved by her sharing her own stories as well as her foremothers, and what it means for women to take ownership of their sexuality and suffer consequences in a Patriarchal society. I am impressed by her accomplishments, and appreciate Lust for sharing her stories and experience with the world, on a topic that many people interact with but that few admit to.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Porn has so much power to change the way we think about sex, intimacy, and desire. Feminist adult filmmaker Erika Lust considers how societal expectations shape sexuality and why we need more erotic media created by and for women. This would make an excellent read for gender studies courses!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
As someone who has deconstructed from purity culture, I needed this book. This takes a nuanced approach to the porn industry and rightly pointed to the patriarchy as the true source of the problems of both the porn industry and the puritanical critique of it.
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
A good read on porn from a woman's point.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews