What is compersion? Is it the “opposite” of jealousy, as it is usually believed? Is it an emotion or a behavior? What causes it to arise and bloom? Can we “learn” compersion, or at least invite more of it into our lives?

Based on her seminal research with consensually non-monogamous (CNM) individuals, Dr. Marie Thouin unravels these questions and more in the first-ever book to offer a comprehensive model of compersion and a practical road map to cultivating it. Each chapter features compelling stories from real CNM people, making this a captivating and highly applicable read. In addition, Thouin addresses the broader social context, explaining how understanding compersion is a groundbreaking step toward a world that supports relational diversity and freedom.

By disrupting the idea that jealousy is the only valid response to intimacy beyond monogamy, the existence and practice of compersion builds the foundation for a completely new paradigm of loving relationships. This book and its conclusions have profound implications for many fields of study and practice including psychology, sexuality studies, philosophy and ethics, and law. Indispensable for CNM individuals, therapists, counselors, and scholars, this book is also invaluable for anyone curious to learn about positive empathy, intentional relationships, and radical love.

If you are a seeker of sexual freedom and clean love, as I hope you are, for heaven’s sake read this book. And then go shine the light of compersion on your lovers, friends, family, and everyone you care about.

— Dossie Easton, LMFT, coauthor with Janet W. Hardy of The Ethical Slut

Drawing from solid research, Thouin breaks down the nuts and bolts of how compersion actually works—the mindset, context, and special sauce that facilitate this often misunderstood concept. Whether you're non-monogamous yourself, a professional helping clients, or just a curious human, this book is an essential look at the potential of our hearts to share in each other's joy.

— Dedeker Winston, author of Multiamory: Essential Tools for Modern Relationships and The Smart Girl's Guide to Polyamory

This book is absolutely riveting! I promise you that you will be up all night reading all 278 pages of this fantastic book, as you will not be able to put it down! — Kathy Labriola, counselor, nurse, author of Polyamorous Elders