As an author, I highlight society’s issues of sex positivity, consent and mental health
Liv Arnold- romance novel author
The statistics are unbelievable. Like many women, I have experienced sexual harassment. The 2016 Australian Bureau of Statistics Personal Safety Survey reported nearly two million Australian adults have experienced sexual assault since the age of 15. These numbers are not just statistics; they represent real people, real pain and real scars.
In crafting romance novels, I bring the concept of enthusiastic consent. A resounding “hell yes” from all parties involved. The circumstances or activities leading up to the event are not relevant. Consent can be like a persistent salesperson in a shop. They shadow your every move and shove their product onto you. Eventually, worn down by the pressure, you relent and buy. Not because you want to, but because they have coerced you. Similarly, in sex, coercive control can cloud the perception of consent. Even if you agree, there’s often a lingering sense of discomfort or unease, hinting that something isn’t quite right. If the answer isn’t a “yes”, it’s a “no.” Consent isn’t a checkbox; it’s the basis of a healthy relationship in fiction and reality.
My novel, Stepping Stone, also delves into the complexities of mental health and sex positivity. I draw inspiration from my struggles with anxiety and the experiences of those around me. Stepping Stone’s heroine learns how to support her husband’s PTSD as she grapples with her own demons. For years, she fantasised about light BDSM. She’s been embarrassed to voice her thoughts. We should be free to express our desires if the conversation is open and respectful. Sex is human nature. Everyone has sex. Yet, people believe someone that owns their wants and needs are promiscuous, especially a woman. My character finds strength in taking control of her life and sexuality.
Stepping Stone by Liv Arnold. Purchase here.
The male lead is burdened by PTSD from his service in Afghanistan. He experiences anxiety and depression, mirroring the struggles of countless individuals battling invisible wounds. Men often hesitate to seek help for their mental health. Society has the expectation of strength and masculinity. There’s a stigma with male vulnerability. I drew insight from an acquaintance who served in Afghanistan. He gave an invaluable understanding of the PTSD signs to watch—strict around safety and being startled by sudden loud noises. Through my characters’ journey, I shed light on real-life issues while offering a glimmer of hope.
My commitment to mental health advocacy extends beyond my books. I found comfort in writing when traditional avenues of treatment fell short. Accessible resources are important. That’s why I’m donating a percentage of my profits from Stepping Stone to The Anxiety and Depression Association of America.
Endorsements from New York Times bestselling authors like Cherry Adair, Meredith Wild and J. Kenner feel like validation. Their words affirm the impact of addressing tough subjects with compassion and authenticity. I use storytelling as a tool for healing and understanding.
As a Cosmopolitan sex advice expert, I’ve expanded my platform to include tips from the female gaze. However, the adult nature of my work sometimes leads to misconceptions. People may assume I’m interested in them (or anyone with a pulse) because I write about sex. Their thoughts reflect societal taboos around sex positivity. Writing about sex is a lot of fun. Sometimes, providing quotes on sex positions educates me. For instance, when asked about the pinball wizard, I had no idea about the sex position. Google was an eye-opening experience. The diagrams defied gravity.
28 Romantic Valentine’s Day Sex Positions for Every Type of Relationship, read here.
I often use metaphors to describe an orgasm in my novels. In Stepping Stone, I wrote, “The orgasm hit her like an earthquake—bucking, thrashing and shuddering her body.” If your orgasm doesn’t resemble a natural disaster, you’re not doing it right. There’s nothing wrong with not accepting less than mind-blowing sex. By challenging society’s preconceived ideas, I encourage individuals to explore their sexuality on their own terms, free from public pressure or expectations.
People have misconceptions about sex, consent and mental health. Through my writing, I spark conversations, challenge stigmas and encourage a more open-minded and empathetic world. Storytelling has the power to heal, to empower and to inspire change. And I am committed to harnessing that power, one word at a time.
To learn more about Liv Arnold or to purchase her novels, Law & Disorder, Etched in Stone and Stepping Stone, click here.
To read more of our International Women’s Day articles, head here.
