It is indeed a rare phenomenon when an author can pinpoint a universal, cultural phenomenon, precisely define its existence and origins, and provide a comprehensive solution to address it. Laura Brotherson has done just this in her book, And They Were Not Ashamed—Strengthening Marriage through Sexual Fulfillment, as she identifies the sexual problems women and couples face, resulting in marriages that are weakened and often destroyed.

As a licensed clinical social worker who has worked with couples, I can vouch for the desperate need for Laura’s book. Her gentle directness in naming and addressing sexual problems counters the vast ignorance and misinformation that cause so many couples to struggle. Laura has addressed these problems in her book from every conceivable angle and offers valuable and practical solutions. She inspires a new approach and a new attitude in effectively teaching our children and youth about sexuality while maintaining a focus on its sanctity. The last three chapters of her book help parents to prepare to teach as well as to know what, how, and when to teach, to better prepare children for intimacy in marriage.

I have studied human development and have read many books on sexuality. I have counseled with couples to address their marital/sexual problems, and I have found uniquely valuable information in Laura’s book. Laura speaks directly to issues not addressed anywhere else. Despite my education and experience, my husband and I have had several productive conversations as a result of the information in her book. This leads me to believe that where I have found new and valuable information, how much more so would any woman or couple benefit from reading her book. In particular, Laura’s conception of the phases of a woman’s arousal, reordering them as she has, is a unique contribution to the understanding of the female sexual response, and gives legitimacy to what so many women experience, and yet are unable to put into words.

Laura’s book addresses the primary issues of strengthening marriage and family in an uplifting and inspiring manner, relevant to all couples. She gives excellent and accurate information produced in the context of a deeply held faith and religious foundation. She distills the best from similar resources, while adding her unique ability to speak as a woman of faith, to women of faith, contributing unique and valuable ideas, and giving couples hands-on homework assignments to apply, in the comfort of their own homes, thus improving their relationships immediately. She addresses the negative cultural and media influences on sexuality, while simultaneously challenging the silence that pervades homes and churches in teaching the sanctity and godly purposes of sexuality.

Laura’s book is vitally necessary at this time in our nation, indeed in the world, where sexuality is so distorted and where the forces against marriage and families grow ever stronger.

Caralee Frederic, MSW, LCSW