James and Ashley interview Josephine Taylor, author of 'Eye of a Rook.' In it, they discuss vulvodynia, a poorly understood and often debilitating gynaecological condition, how this illness has shaped Josephine's life, and the stunning novel it's inspired her to write.

Find out more about Josephine at her website, and buy a copy of 'Eye of a Rook' from your local bookshop, Booktopia, or wherever else books are sold. You can also check out Josephine's #FridayCookBook project on Instagram and join her for her Avid Reader online event with Lee Kofman on February 9, 2021.

For more support and information about vulvodynia, visit the following resources:

• The International Society for the Study of Vulvovaginal Disease 
• The Australian and New Zealand Vulvovaginal Society
• The Pelvic Pain Foundation of Australia 
• The National Vulvodynia Association (US) 
• The Vulval Pain Society (UK) 

Books discussed in this episode:

• The Fifth Season by Philip Salem
• Wintering by Krissy Kneen
• 'The Wife's Story' by Ursula K LeGuin
• Imperfect by Lee Kofman (who we spoke to in episode 3)
• Unlike the Heart by Nicola Redhouse
• Pain and Prejudice by Gabrielle Jackson
• Show Me Where It Hurts by Kylie Maslen
• Hysteria by Katerina Bryant
• One Day I'll Remember This: Diaries 1987-1995 by Helen Garner
• In the Woods by Tana French

Get in touch!

Ashley's Website: ashleykalagianblunt.com

Ashley's Twitter: @AKalagianBlunt

James' Website: jamesmckenziewatson.com

James' Twitter: @JamesMcWatson