Neil Strauss is a master storyteller, and his latest book, The Truth, is a compelling follow-up to his previous work, The Game (but no need to read it to enjoy this one). 

While The Game became a classic in the “pick-up artist” community, Strauss eventually came to realise that the tactics he had learned and taught were not sustainable or fulfilling – and in fact were manipulative.

In contrast, The Truth is a candid memoir in which Strauss grapples with the question of whether monogamy is truly for him. The book begins with Strauss in rehab for sex addiction, a consequence of the success of The Game and the lifestyle it brought him. From there, he embarks on a relationship journey that takes him through a range of experiences, from tantra cults to swingers clubs and beyond.

Throughout the book, Strauss’s writing style is both humorous and sincere to the extent that I found myself laughing out loud at various points. Strauss’s vulnerability in sharing such personal experiences is admirable, and his honest and open approach makes for a captivating read and for this reason remains one of our favourite books of all time.

Overall, The Truth is a thought-provoking and entertaining exploration of relationships and commitment, and what is required for a deeper (not wider) experience of love.