My wife and I have been considering an open relationship off and on for a while. Just recently through attending conferences that had poly talks, we've increased our interest. So, when Tristan was the keynote speaker at that conference, I had to pick up a book and get it signed.

Took me awhile to have the free time to be able to read Opening Up. I'm glad I waited till I had no other distractions because this book really makes you think about your relationship and the possibility of opening up to others.

My wife and I aren't compatible D/s wise, but great in all other aspects. So I really enjoyed that Tristan discussed what a poly relationship with a D/s focus would be like, as opposed to just the relationship/sex aspect.

Tristan is excellent at being inclusive and keeping away from a heteronormative view in Opening Up. Her interviews spanned many different orientations, ages, and styles of polyamory so you get a good view of relationships as a whole. I never felt like I was being left out of the topic while reading.

There are great chapters on negotiating boundaries, discussing styles, working with issues like jealousy and abandonment, and what to do when problems arise. And then there are good chapters on legalities, raising children, and coming out to others.

As an aspiring sex educator, I was very pleased to see a good chapter on STI's and safer sex practices when having sexual relationships outside of the primary, or if one is a solo poly.

Tristan is a great teacher and this book has definitely helped my wife and I when discussing our interests in a poly lifestyle. I broke out the chapter on using checklists for boundaries when we had our first discussion and what may or may not be acceptable for our relationship. I feel this is a book I will keep close to use as a reference if things arise.