Anticipation of a book review from Library Journal was first sparked by this blog entry from their website, on Library Journal staffers' current reads:
Ashleigh Williams, Bookroom Assistant, LJ
My current obsession is The History & Arts of the Dominatrix, self-published by elusive author Anne O. Nomis. Rife with facts, statistics, and exclusive images, this book has kept me enthralled from start to (almost) finish. The accompanying photos of the classic “dom” as she evolves over time are just one of the many highlights. I’m having far too much fun making people uncomfortable on subways and in coffee shops once again!"
http://reviews.libraryjournal.com/2014/02/in-the-bookroom/spies-lovers-ww-ii-what-were-reading/
A few weeks on, the much-awaited review has just been posted on Library Journal - Reviews, officially out on March 15th (Library Journal).
'The History & Arts of the Dominatrix'
(Author) Nomis, Anne O
ISBN 9780992701000
Elusive author Nomis sheds light on a mysterious underground world in this fascinating exploration of female dominatrices. Beginning with the ancient worship of dominatrix goddesses as early as 7400 BCE, she continues through secular domination practices in 17th- to 19th-century England (such as flogging houses), which were spurred by the rise of patriarchal monotheistic religions and schoolhouse corporal punishment. Nomis explains that the characteristic fetish "style" did not appear until the late 1950s, when the dominatrix herself truly carved out her niche as an erotic icon. She concludes with seven "realms" of the art of domination, discussing the nuanced dynamics of dominant/submissive relationships and fetishism in general. This book might not contain a slew of new observations for those well versed in sexuality studies, but the unconventional analysis reinvigorates even the most familiar concepts. It is obvious that Nomis dedicated years of research to compile an engaging, sympathetic history of a well-concealed subculture. The book provides exciting commentary on shifting attitudes toward sex, female power, and female sexuality across different time periods and regions, complete with dazzling visual aids and artifacts. VERDICT Recommended for collections with high demand for sociology and anthropology titles, particularly on the subjects of gender and sexuality.
(Review by Ashleigh Williams, Library JournalLibrary Journal Booksmack! LJXpress Prepub School Library Journal Horn Book Guide Horn Book Magazine Junior Library Guild)
Reviewed on MARCH 15, 2014 | Social Sciences