I have mixed feelings about this book. On the one hand, it is an insightful investigation into the sexism that seems to run rampant through the rape crisis centres in Ireland; on the other, it is a poorly written, poorly edited memoir that too often tends towards 'Good time had by all' sentimentality, and pointless name-dropping.

On the issue of sexism, and the anti-male bias that afflicts counselling centres in Ireland, the writer speaks with the authority that comes from personal experience. Yes, it is terrible that there are no facilities for men who have suffered violence at the hands of women; yes, it is terrible that women are seen as ever-suffering victims, and never the perpetrators of violence. However, here is a book calling out for a more scholarly approach, with references to other studies and to any research sadly missing. As in introduction to the topic, though, it is very useful in places. ( )