Praise for Staying Married is the Hardest Part

“In the late 1960s, feminists began sharing their extraordinary dissatisfaction with the sexual revolution and described The Faked Orgasm as the way they hid their displeasure. Bonnie Comfort has now excavated those feelings, no longer publicly discussed, in a profoundly personal memoir titled “Staying Married is the Hardest Part: A Memoir of Passion, Secrets and Sacrifice.” Read it and you will understand the secret sexual disappointments that so many American women experience.”

Ruth Rosen, Professor Emerita of History

author of "The World Split Open: How the Modern Women's Movement Changed America"

“With clarity and courage, psychologist Bonnie Comfort reveals her sexual shame and struggles so that you can heal yours. In an authentic and compelling voice, Dr. Comfort describes her own loving, but sexually disappointing marriage. Through her own vulnerability, Dr. Comfort reveals what it means to heal sexual shame and work with your partner on negotiating what you need sexually. “Staying Married is the Hardest Part” is a must-read memoir that will both touch readers hearts and inspire their own transformative sexual work.”

Laurie Mintz, Ph.D.

author of "A Tired Woman’s Guide to Passionate Sex, and, Becoming Cliterate"

“In this captivating memoir of her marriage to a Hollywood screenwriter, psychologist Bonnie Comfort bravely exposes the sexual fetishes and power struggles that plagued her relationship, showing how old wounds and coping styles fuel conflict between partners. A startling and beautiful story that will inspire readers.”

Mike Consol

author and host of "The Novelist Spotlight" podcast

“As a psychiatrist, I’m drawn to this fascinating portrayal of love and sex, but this memoir is also a moving account of losing an irreplaceable partner after decades together, and how to grapple with what comes next. I’d recommend it to anyone navigating love, loss, and the search for meaning in the aftermath.”

Jayne Laszewski, MD

practicing psychiatrist for over 20 years

“Comfort exposes the complexities of marriage and leaves us asking how much is too much? Her account confirms that one never knows what goes on behind closed doors. An intense account of love, infidelity, and sexual demands made that test both Bonnie and her husband. A wonderfully written book reflecting a wonderfully lived life with all its complexities. Honest, pure, raw, and riveting. So well done!”

Rossana D’Antonio

author of "26 Seconds: Grief & Blame in the Aftermath of Losing My Brother in a Plane Crash"

“Psychologist Bonnie Comfort shares her compelling and challenging marriage, told with brave honesty and the desire to give us hope for our own power struggles, sexual incompatibilities, and strains in long-term relationships. This wise and profoundly moving book is an ode to enduring love.”

Jan Baross

author of "Jose Builds a Woman" (Kay Snow award winner)

“Bonnie Comfort shares here a deeply personal and insightful journey into the complexities of marriage. Drawing from her professional experiences as a psychologist and her own complex relationship, Comfort offers a candid look at the challenges couples face. From the initial magic of falling in love to the inevitable power struggles and shadow side of relationships, this memoir is a heartfelt exploration of love, compromise, and resilience. With poignant anecdotes and practical wisdom, Comfort’s story is a testament to the enduring human desire for connection and understanding. Perfect for readers seeking inspiration for navigating the rocky terrain of long-term relationships.”

Deb Miller

author of "Forget the Fairytale" and "Find Your Happiness"

“In this deeply moving memoir, psychologist Bonnie Comfort explores the intricate dance of long-term partnership, where love and sacrifice are inseparably intertwined. She delves into the raw realities of her marriage—from deep friendship and intense passion to the pain of mutual hurt and the delicate balance of accepting what cannot be changed. Bonnie’s poignant revelations about silencing her needs and the courage it takes to disappoint echo universally, offering wisdom for anyone who has ever struggled to balance their desires with the demands of a relationship. With courage and grace, Bonnie also recounts her husband’s eventual decline and passing, capturing the heartbreaking reality of Lewy Body Dementia. Sprinkled with illuminating insights into the human psyche and relationship dynamics, this is a celebration of imperfect love and the enduring bonds that persist through life’s trials. Staying Married Is the Hardest Part: A Memoir of Passion, Secrets and Sacrifice will stay with the reader long after the book is closed.”

Shavaun Scott

author of "Nightbird"