The Secret History of Western Sexual Mysticism: Sacred Practices and Spiritual Marriage
" . . . an insightful history of the role of human sexuality in the shaping of ideas and cultures." (Chard Currie, New Dawn, Sep/Oct 2008)"In this scholarly paperback, [Versluis] traces the twisting and turning path of Western sexual mysticism." (Frederic and Mary Ann Brussat, Spirituality and Practice, Oct 2008)"This book addresses a topic that is often overlooked (or else looked at as an embarrassing part of the mystical tradition) here in the Western world. This book looks at both the Pagan and Christian mystic traditions in many of their manifestations, with an emphasis of the Christian side. . . . There is no titillation in this book, merely accurate historical reporting." (Michael Gleason, Witchgrove.com, Apr 2008)"Secret History of Western Sexual Mysticsimoffers up a unique set of cross-connections essential to connecting spirituality with religious history. New Age collections, in particular, will find it an exciting survey packed with history and religious examination." (Midwest Book Review, July 2008)"Like his other works, this book is essential reading for those who desire to understand some of the more hidden and truly esoteric streams of thought and practice that have been instrumental in the various traditions of Western esotericism." (Institute of Hermetic Studies, Aug 2008)"At rare occasions sober and traditional presentations of commercialized magical activity appears as a counterweight to the occult sentimentalism that often finds its way to publication. Vesluis's masterful presentation of sexual mysticism is one of those rare books that cannot be recommended enough. . . . the landscape he opens is going straight to the nerve of this rich field of enlightenment. Highly recommended." (O Caldeirao, Issue 16, May 2008)