Press Reviews

• Kevin Miguel Garcia, author of Bad Theology Kills & What Makes You Bloom, spiritual director, and mystical theologian

  Too many of us are not alive to tell our stories, to adequately explain the torture we survived. The words of these survivors is both heartbreaking and immeasurably important. Whether this is new information or you are a survivor of conversion therapy, these stories will break your heart open, letting greater levels of compassion and empathy flow through.

• John Paulk Proud gay man, activist, former conversion therapy advocate, and a leader of the “ex-gay” movement

  An inspiration. Written with brutal honesty, sincerity and courage. Shame Sex Attraction reveals heartrending stories of the heroic people who share their harrowing journeys into the horrors and savagery of conversion therapy. My heart moved reading the impact of shame, guilt, and devastation that resulted. However, I rejoice as these brave souls eventually found freedom and authenticity as they forged ahead and embraced their truth and identity. I'm humbled by their vulnerability.

• @almightygod

  People CAN change... from persecutors or bystanders into allies. The powerful stories collected in this book will open many eyes to the ways that so-called "conversion therapy" tortures folks for daring to live as I created them. Thou shalt read it and pass it on!

• Jen Bryant, Fundie Fridays

  Lucas brings together an eclectic and diverse collection of queer writers and their gripping personal tales from the dark world of conversion therapy. Incredibly moving and hard to put down!

• Wayne Besen, Author, Lies with a Straight Face: Exposing the Cranks and Cons Inside the Ex-Gay Industry

  Survivors are powerful witnesses to the tragedy of 'ex-gay' conversion therapy. In Shame-Sex Attraction, Lucas Wilson shares their moving testimonies and the heartbreak of these toxic programs. He also reveals heroic efforts to rebuild lives of openness and authenticity. If you want to know the truth about conversion efforts, read this fantastic, illuminating book that could change-or even save-your life.

• Rev. Paul M. Turner, editor-in-chief of Whosoever

  An invaluable resource for those in ministry, activists, mental health professionals, and all who support the fight for LGBTQIA+ rights. By amplifying survivor stories, we take a critical step toward ensuring that such atrocities never affect future generations. A beacon of hope and a rallying cry for justice.

• Mason Mennenga, YouTuber and podcast host of A People's Theology

  One of the best ways to prevent a future tragedy is to boldly share the stories of past tragedies. Wilson has compiled numerous stories sharing the tragedy of conversion therapy. Whether or not you are queer, a person of faith, or both, these stories should move you to make sure such abuse is never inflicted upon the queer community ever again.

• Dr. Christine Robinson, Professor of Justice Studies, James Madison University

  Shame-Sex Attraction is a ground-breaking, timely, and indispensable collection of powerful, redemptive stories of survivors of conversion practices. This book is essential reading for mental health professionals, religious leaders, parents, and, especially, those who deserve to know that they are worthy of love and respect, exactly as they are. These stories will transform and save lives.

• Timothy Jones, Associate Professor, Latrobe University

  Shame Sex Attraction provides a critical and compassionate window into the history of attempts to change and suppress LGBTQ2S+ people's gender and sexuality. It relates the confusion, heartbreak, hopes and triumphs experienced as people journey to discover that the core truths of their selves are not incompatible.

• Dr. Kristopher Wells, Canada Research Chair for the Public Understanding of Sexual and Gender Minority Youth, MacEwan University

  This edited collection is a welcome and important addition to the critical interrogation and the life altering consequences of so-called "conversion therapy practices," which are still shockingly used around the world. By sharing first-hand accounts of the devastating impacts of these illegitimate and immoral practices, Dr. Wilson centers the voices of survivors as a powerful call to action, reconciliation, and healing. I strongly encourage everyone to read this book and learn how survivors, through their very strength, courage, and resilience, have transformed shame into pride.

• Travis Salway, Associate Professor, Simon Fraser University

  The stories in Shame-Sex Attraction provide nuance and humanity regarding the experiences of survivors of conversion therapy. This is a potent intervention at a time when political protections for LGBTQ+ people are under threat. The collection re-empowers us to continue the fight.

• Publishers Weekly

  It's a heartbreaking and galvanizing exposé.