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Woman on Fire: 9 Elements to Wake Up Your Erotic Energy, Personal Power, and Sexual Intelligence
Based on her sought-after sexuality workshops, the coauthor of Lesbian Sex Secrets for Men shows women how to master the 9 elements of sexual empowerment to reclaim their desire and live the sexually fulfilling lives they want.
The prevalence of low sexual desire ranges from 26.7% among premenopausal men to 52.4% among naturally menopausal women. That is an enormous segment of women who are frustrated about their lack of desire and wonder what's wrong. But in Woman on Fire, Amy Jo Goddard shows us that the more whole we are as sexual beings, the more fulfilled we are as human beings. In this accessible, prescriptive book, Amy Jo reveals her holistic, inside-out approach to developing Sexual Empowerment. Women from 20 to 70 come to her workshops with issues like these: "What am I missing?" "I don't like sex the way everyone else seems to." "How do I maintain desire after having kids?" "How do I build sexual confidence?"
In answer, Amy Jo shows us how to master the 9 Elements of a Sexually Empowered Life and includes stories from the thousands of women she has worked with. She shows us how to get (back) in touch with desire, explore vulnerability and play, and push the boundaries of what we think is acceptable. We will not just have better sex, we will have more pleasure throughout life and more intimate relationships, whether we have many partners or one.
The prevalence of low sexual desire ranges from 26.7% among premenopausal men to 52.4% among naturally menopausal women. That is an enormous segment of women who are frustrated about their lack of desire and wonder what's wrong. But in Woman on Fire, Amy Jo Goddard shows us that the more whole we are as sexual beings, the more fulfilled we are as human beings. In this accessible, prescriptive book, Amy Jo reveals her holistic, inside-out approach to developing Sexual Empowerment. Women from 20 to 70 come to her workshops with issues like these: "What am I missing?" "I don't like sex the way everyone else seems to." "How do I maintain desire after having kids?" "How do I build sexual confidence?"
In answer, Amy Jo shows us how to master the 9 Elements of a Sexually Empowered Life and includes stories from the thousands of women she has worked with. She shows us how to get (back) in touch with desire, explore vulnerability and play, and push the boundaries of what we think is acceptable. We will not just have better sex, we will have more pleasure throughout life and more intimate relationships, whether we have many partners or one.
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First published September 29, 2015
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
October 8, 2015
This review originally appeared on my blog at www.gimmethatbook.com.
Amy Jo Goddard is a world reknowned sexual empowerment coach. She has done many things to promote sexuality, feminism, and couple’s communication. With those credentials under her belt, I expected a whole lot from this book –and I wasn’t disappointed!
I started highlighting stuff about 20 pages in. Goddard’s vision is refreshing in that, if society would stop sending women sex-negative messages, they would be able to enjoy themselves more. Women are shamed and made to feel guilty on a regular basis. Mothers tell their daughters to be protective of their body and not be a tease. Girlfriends talk about each other behind their backs, using terms like “slut” and whore”, when peer pressure is at its most effective. Men use their strength against women and hurt their psyche with rape or other types of abuse. Goddard’s message is to let go of your “story”, the tale you may tell yourself and live your life around it (I am a victim, I am a slut, I am someone who has strange sexual tastes) and embrace who you really are. People identify so strongly with their own stories that it can keep them from moving forward.
Goddard says that some of your story, while relevant in the past, may be outdated now. Perhaps you are divorced; perhaps you feel attracted to women now instead of men; perhaps there are things going on in your life that has changed you in other ways. No matter what is happening, it’s time for you to find your voice and speak up for yourself. There is no need for any woman to feel powerless in her life. There is no reason for any woman to hold onto beliefs that don’t serve you (sex before marriage is bad, good girls don’t have that type of fantasy).
In WOMAN ON FIRE, the author outlines 9 elements that are essential to sexual empowerment. She also includes an online portal with exercises and resources that will help the reader get the most out of her book.
As I read each chapter, I could feel myself figuratively “catching on fire” and wanting to become the woman that Goddard says is inside all of us.
I was especially moved by the chapter on emotion and showing up emotionally powerful. Goddard says there is a cause and effect for everything, and that YOU are the cause and your life circumstances are the effects. It makes perfect sense to me—and somehow no other book has every conveyed that in such a clarifying way before.
The writing is supportive, empowering, powerful and bold. This is not a burn-your-bra missive; this is a search-within-yourself journey that just happens to have sex at its core. Women that have contented sex lives will benefit from reading this as well, because Goddard forces you to think about things in a new way.
Her theory is acceptance: of yourself, of your needs, of your desires, of your body. Element 4 is all about your body and the media lies that force unobtainable standards upon women. There is also a section that illustrates the sex organs and explains their function.
Goddard is frank about her past abuse and how she freed herself of her own story, lest there be some women who discredit her theories as being too glib for comfort. Healing from past shame/abuse/loss of power is not easily gained, yet the author is open about her situation and the ways she learned to let go and regain self esteem again. To me, this makes her words more real and more empowering.
Women must learn to be whoever THEY want to be, not trying to live up to someone else’s idea. True, the major portion of this book urges you to awaken your erotic core, but it is also helpful for anyone wanting to gain more self love, confidence, and mindfulness. Here’s an example of how much Goddard wants women to make themselves the best they can be: her confidence quiz. Her website is full of information and encouragement for women of all ages.
Today’s world is full of self help books and buzzwords to make women feel empowered–WOMAN ON FIRE is a book that delivers and supports this attitude with real stories, real scenarios, and authentic support. Kudos to Amy Jo for telling it like it is, free of shame or embarrassment. I hope this book takes the world by storm.
Amy Jo Goddard is a world reknowned sexual empowerment coach. She has done many things to promote sexuality, feminism, and couple’s communication. With those credentials under her belt, I expected a whole lot from this book –and I wasn’t disappointed!
I started highlighting stuff about 20 pages in. Goddard’s vision is refreshing in that, if society would stop sending women sex-negative messages, they would be able to enjoy themselves more. Women are shamed and made to feel guilty on a regular basis. Mothers tell their daughters to be protective of their body and not be a tease. Girlfriends talk about each other behind their backs, using terms like “slut” and whore”, when peer pressure is at its most effective. Men use their strength against women and hurt their psyche with rape or other types of abuse. Goddard’s message is to let go of your “story”, the tale you may tell yourself and live your life around it (I am a victim, I am a slut, I am someone who has strange sexual tastes) and embrace who you really are. People identify so strongly with their own stories that it can keep them from moving forward.
Goddard says that some of your story, while relevant in the past, may be outdated now. Perhaps you are divorced; perhaps you feel attracted to women now instead of men; perhaps there are things going on in your life that has changed you in other ways. No matter what is happening, it’s time for you to find your voice and speak up for yourself. There is no need for any woman to feel powerless in her life. There is no reason for any woman to hold onto beliefs that don’t serve you (sex before marriage is bad, good girls don’t have that type of fantasy).
In WOMAN ON FIRE, the author outlines 9 elements that are essential to sexual empowerment. She also includes an online portal with exercises and resources that will help the reader get the most out of her book.
As I read each chapter, I could feel myself figuratively “catching on fire” and wanting to become the woman that Goddard says is inside all of us.
I was especially moved by the chapter on emotion and showing up emotionally powerful. Goddard says there is a cause and effect for everything, and that YOU are the cause and your life circumstances are the effects. It makes perfect sense to me—and somehow no other book has every conveyed that in such a clarifying way before.
The writing is supportive, empowering, powerful and bold. This is not a burn-your-bra missive; this is a search-within-yourself journey that just happens to have sex at its core. Women that have contented sex lives will benefit from reading this as well, because Goddard forces you to think about things in a new way.
Her theory is acceptance: of yourself, of your needs, of your desires, of your body. Element 4 is all about your body and the media lies that force unobtainable standards upon women. There is also a section that illustrates the sex organs and explains their function.
Goddard is frank about her past abuse and how she freed herself of her own story, lest there be some women who discredit her theories as being too glib for comfort. Healing from past shame/abuse/loss of power is not easily gained, yet the author is open about her situation and the ways she learned to let go and regain self esteem again. To me, this makes her words more real and more empowering.
Women must learn to be whoever THEY want to be, not trying to live up to someone else’s idea. True, the major portion of this book urges you to awaken your erotic core, but it is also helpful for anyone wanting to gain more self love, confidence, and mindfulness. Here’s an example of how much Goddard wants women to make themselves the best they can be: her confidence quiz. Her website is full of information and encouragement for women of all ages.
Today’s world is full of self help books and buzzwords to make women feel empowered–WOMAN ON FIRE is a book that delivers and supports this attitude with real stories, real scenarios, and authentic support. Kudos to Amy Jo for telling it like it is, free of shame or embarrassment. I hope this book takes the world by storm.
December 2, 2015
This may be the missing link between Sex Ed for Dummies and the Kama Sutra. Amy Jo Goddard's work is not a passing fancy. She speaks with the technical voice of a clinician and the comfort of a friend who ultimately believes the highest self desires the full expression of her empowered sex. Thankfully this is not another HOW TO. There's something for everyone and every level of development. The case studies are relatable and authentic without that pieced together, canned monologue feel.
My favorite chapter is "Element 1. Voice: Excavate and Rewrite Your Sexual History." I'm not slouch in the exploration department but when it comes to verbalizing such things, there's much gratitude for anyone who can break it down in clear, concise language without sucking the fun out.
That's what I like most about the book. There's LEVITY in the landmines. That kicks the pants off ten years of therapy (not to say that isn't helpful) when a sense of urgency, the promise of a life fully lived has such a loving warrior championing the tribe.
Gorgeous cover too!
My favorite chapter is "Element 1. Voice: Excavate and Rewrite Your Sexual History." I'm not slouch in the exploration department but when it comes to verbalizing such things, there's much gratitude for anyone who can break it down in clear, concise language without sucking the fun out.
That's what I like most about the book. There's LEVITY in the landmines. That kicks the pants off ten years of therapy (not to say that isn't helpful) when a sense of urgency, the promise of a life fully lived has such a loving warrior championing the tribe.
Gorgeous cover too!
December 3, 2015
"Woman On Fire" is a gem among sex books. Transcending tips and techniques, it thoughtfully examines the cultural and internal messaging that many women carry around sex and sexuality. The 9 element framework is skillfully laid out and you'll find the many anecdotes from real women intriguing, tender and engrossing. Some of my favorites are the personal stories that deal with the "sexual story", overcoming sexual shame (Voice and Release chapters) and embracing the sexual agency that Amy Jo lays out (Home chapter). These stories are so great because they give an insider's look into the connection between sexuality, identity, emotion, self-esteem and so much more. The entire book offers a much deeper perspective on sexuality than you are likely to come across in the rest of the culture. I also appreciate the links between sexuality, beauty and creativity and the overall emphasis on how nourishing our sexuality feeds us in life in so many areas -- beyond the bedroom as well.
Even though it has "woman" in the title, and addresses many aspects of growing up and being socialized as female, I think this book would be very valuable for people of all genders. I also purchased several copies of "Lesbian Sex Secrets for Men" and plan on gifting them to men in my life!
Through it all, Amy Jo's perspective shines like a compassionate beacon, reminding us that greater wholeness is possible: in sex, in our relationships and in life itself. You will be moved by the personal journeys of the author and other women, and motivated to contemplate your own sexual journey. This is an inspiring read for anyone who wants to deepen their own sexual intelligence.
May 29, 2024
Woman on Fire is a book I am going to recommend to many of my friends and clients. It's a beautiful, accessible book on women's sexuality that invites a lot of introspection and permission around finding your voice, staying curious, staying present, and living your way into your sexual desire and fire. My favorite chapter is Home - which is all about the ways we abandon ourselves and how we can start being more embodied and present by advocating for ourselves and living in our truth. It's a stunning practice. One of the other things I adore about the book are the stories throughout. The stories are beautifully varied which offers readers so many ways to connect with the content. I especially loved Amy Jo's stories about her own journey and relationship.
Bottom line - this book is a powerful addition to anyone's life and offers a practical, inviting road map towards sexual empowerment.
Bottom line - this book is a powerful addition to anyone's life and offers a practical, inviting road map towards sexual empowerment.
June 13, 2016
*So thankful* to read this book before I turn 30. I grew up in a highly patriarchical ethnic culture and religion. Everywhere I turned was an unconstructive view of female sexuality that I knew couldn't possibly be the whole truth. This book shifted the way I think about sexuality and life in general, Thank you Amy Jo Goddard for writing this book <3
October 21, 2015
This book was just.. WOW!! A very powerful book! It made me look at everything, myself included in a whole new way!
October 9, 2015
I received my copy of Woman on Fire: 9 Elements to Wake Up Your Erotic Energy, Personal Power, and Sexual Intelligence via giveaway for an honest review. This is my first time reading anything from Amy Jo Goddard...first time reading anything like it.
First off I will just say.....Wow!! I was a little bashful from the start but as I read on I found this book to be quite insightful...interesting...and sexually empowering. These are not just a collection of cheesy tips on what to do in bed. Oh no!!...this is so much more. A sophisticated way/teaching/philosophy that if you truly open your mind to learning something new about your body and your sexuality, you can actually learn something about yourself for yourself..you can actually turn your relationship on to a whole other level. I am hooked..I want to read more.
Take side notes...highlight it...mark it with stickers...quote from it. Single...married...dating...this is the book to have in your life...it's like the sex Bible for women.
First off I will just say.....Wow!! I was a little bashful from the start but as I read on I found this book to be quite insightful...interesting...and sexually empowering. These are not just a collection of cheesy tips on what to do in bed. Oh no!!...this is so much more. A sophisticated way/teaching/philosophy that if you truly open your mind to learning something new about your body and your sexuality, you can actually learn something about yourself for yourself..you can actually turn your relationship on to a whole other level. I am hooked..I want to read more.
Take side notes...highlight it...mark it with stickers...quote from it. Single...married...dating...this is the book to have in your life...it's like the sex Bible for women.
January 11, 2016
I received this book free through goodreads giveaways.
This book will make you take a closer look at every aspect of yourself. Whether you're wanting more confidence, to understand your body and your needs, or to just get to know yourself on a deeper level then this book is for you. And don't be fooled by the title. Though this book is geared towards women (obviously) that doesn't mean it can't be a positive tool for men as well.
This book will make you take a closer look at every aspect of yourself. Whether you're wanting more confidence, to understand your body and your needs, or to just get to know yourself on a deeper level then this book is for you. And don't be fooled by the title. Though this book is geared towards women (obviously) that doesn't mean it can't be a positive tool for men as well.
December 4, 2015
After reading "WOMAN ON FIRE" I became a woman on fire!
I am the photographer of her Author Portrait.
It was an honor and a whole lot of fun creating her desired images!
Fantastic life changing book!
Thank you Amy Jo. You are amazing.
I am the photographer of her Author Portrait.
It was an honor and a whole lot of fun creating her desired images!
Fantastic life changing book!
Thank you Amy Jo. You are amazing.
April 24, 2016
An authentic appeal to women to stop accepting that lack of desire is our destiny. I also found the chapter about accepting our bodies to be very powerful. As I was reading it, I began to realize just how critical I have been about my body and just how unfair and limiting it can be.
February 3, 2016
I received this book through a Goodreads giveaway.
Not just silly tips and advice about pleasing someone else. This book is about making a decision to enjoy yourself!
Not just silly tips and advice about pleasing someone else. This book is about making a decision to enjoy yourself!
December 2, 2015
I love her take on these issues. it's a new way for me to really think. Amy brings the book to life. I can almost picture her reading it to me
May 29, 2016
An indispensable, deeply compassionate, and beautifully empowering book about fully inhabiting your sexuality and why it matters.
September 21, 2017
Thought provoking - value/belief questioning - all around a great read.
April 4, 2022
I liked this book a lot- it was my first introduction to the ideas of sexual empowerment for women and talking about this taboo issue. Here were my takeaways:
Obviously to have good sex, you should know what your body likes and looks like. Part of the stigma for women is that vulvas are ugly and stinky, but this book definitely helped me ease that fear.
Sex can be creative in non-sexual ways too. Some people cook, make art, and I dance.
There is a lot of power is asking for your needs or saying no. This is something that's especially hard for people pleasers, which are women commonly.
Great book for intro to sex!
Obviously to have good sex, you should know what your body likes and looks like. Part of the stigma for women is that vulvas are ugly and stinky, but this book definitely helped me ease that fear.
Sex can be creative in non-sexual ways too. Some people cook, make art, and I dance.
There is a lot of power is asking for your needs or saying no. This is something that's especially hard for people pleasers, which are women commonly.
Great book for intro to sex!
September 10, 2019
One of my favorite quotes applies perfectly to this book: The journey to yourself is through yourself!
There is so much in here that makes sense and it is written in a clear voice of openess.
I recommend this book to everyone because everyone deserves to feel and be on fire!
There is so much in here that makes sense and it is written in a clear voice of openess.
I recommend this book to everyone because everyone deserves to feel and be on fire!
January 6, 2018
Instructional and informative.......but there are others better
October 4, 2019
Many insights after reading.
February 4, 2022
An amazing and impactful book full of exercises and lessons that get you to dig deep. Would highly recommend!
December 6, 2016
This book is a well-written and comprehensive approach to rediscovering your personal energy and drive. Easy to follow with helpful questions to ponder at the end of each chapter. There's a wealth of information gleaned from various studies and thought leaders in the area of female sexuality, with it all painstakingly documented at the end if you want to read more.
A must read for anyone who feels there's something missing in their sex life or just feels stuck or dull.
A must read for anyone who feels there's something missing in their sex life or just feels stuck or dull.
June 20, 2017
The sexual empowerment work continues. The self-worth work continues. The coming home to myself continues.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews