Ready to expand your polyamory library? We've got your 2025 reading list!
15 Books About Polyamory For 2025
From practical guides to personal memoirs, this carefully curated collection spans everything from relationship anarchy to financial planning (because let's face it, dating multiple people isn't exactly budget-friendly!).
We've gathered both fresh releases and time-tested classics that deserve a spot on your nightstand, no matter what flavor of consensual non-monogamy you practice.
The Breakdown: 4 distinct sections:
Whether you prefer to curl up with a physical book, swipe through an e-reader, or listen to audiobooks during your commute, we've got options for every reading style.
Our 15 Polyamory Books for 2025
Here’s a quick summary of our curated list, tell us which ones you are planning to read in the comments below!
More Than Two, Second Edition: Cultivating Nonmonogamous Relationships with Kindness and Integrity
Pros
- Comprehensive coverage of modern polyamory styles and structures
- Updated content incorporating attachment theory and relationship diversity
- Practical guidance for both newcomers and experienced practitioners
Cons
- No quick-fix solutions - relationships require dedicated self-work
More: A Memoir of Open Marriage
Pros
- Raw, honest portrayal of the ups and downs of opening up
- Relatable exploration of common poly challenges and joys
- Perfect balance of steamy encounters and emotional depth
Cons
- Despite mainstream reviews, and widespread popularity, it focuses more on the challenges, rather than the joys of opening a relationship.
- Told from the perspective of someone originally reluctant to open their marriage, as opposed to someone consenting enthusiastically.
Author Laura Boyle delves into the practical side of polyamorous relationships
Pros
- Written by a relationship coach with nearly 20 years of lived experience in non-monogamous relationships
- Based on interviews with over 400 people living in every polyamorous configuration under the sun
Cons
- Focusing on cohabitation may not be relevant to solo poly people
Entwined: Essays on Polyamory and Creating Home
Pros
- Authentic lived experiences from over a decade of polyamory
- Explores real life challenges from a fresh perspective
Cons
- Specific to one person's journey - experiences may vary
One Woman's Journey Through Love and Polyamory
Pros
- Combines personal experience with scientific research and expert insights
- Raw, honest exploration of polyamory's challenges and rewards
- Excellent resource for both newcomers and experienced poly practitioners
Cons
- Specific to one person's journey - experiences may vary
What Is Compersion? (Diverse Sexualities, Genders, and Relationships)
Pros
- First comprehensive scientific study of compersion
- Includes practical exercises and real-life examples
- Valuable for both individuals and professionals
Cons
- May challenge deeply held beliefs about relationships
- Academic approach might be dense for casual readers
Polyamorous Advice You Won't Get from Your Monogamous Friends
Pros
- Written by an experienced polyamorous educator and practitioner
- Includes real-life examples and practical solutions
- Addresses common concerns like jealousy and communication
Cons
- Some advice may not apply to all relationship structures
The Non-Monogamy Journal: 90+ Scenarios and Questions to Define Boundaries and Make Polyamory Work for You
Pros
- Comprehensive coverage of essential poly topics and scenarios
- Structured format helps prevent boundary violations before they occur
- Perfect for both solo reflection and partner discussions
Cons
- May bring up challenging emotions or past experiences
- Requires dedicated time for thoughtful reflection
- Some scenarios might not apply to your specific relationship style
Expansive Love: A Practical Guide to Relationship Anarchy
Pros
- Comprehensive blend of theory and practical application
- Inclusive approach to all relationship styles and configurations
- Rich historical and anthropological context
Cons
- Requires openness to radical relationship perspectives
Solo: Building a Remarkable Life of Your Own by Peter McGraw
Pros
- Perfect for relationship anarchists and those questioning traditional structures
- Science-backed approach to solo living and relationship design
- Not specific to nonmonogamy, with an inclusive framework that validates all relationship choices
Cons
- Focus on solo living might not resonate with hierarchy-oriented poly couples
Love in a F*cked-Up World: How to Build Relationships, Hook Up, and Raise Hell Together By Dean Spade
Pros
- Combines practical relationship advice with activist wisdom
- Challenges traditional relationship escalator thinking
Cons
- Not a traditional "how-to" relationship guide
- Not specifically about practicing non-monogamy
Originally published in Spain in 2020, offering a scientific look at alternative relationship styles
Pros
- Comprehensive blend of theory and practical relationship advice
- Validated by leading academics and relationship experts
- Includes real-world examples and accessible language
Cons
- Academic terminology could require additional research
Stepping Off the Relationship Escalator: Uncommon Love and Life
Pros
- Features real stories from 1,500+ people in non-traditional relationships
- Comprehensive coverage of various relationship styles including polyamory, solo poly, and relationship anarchy
Cons
- May challenge deeply held beliefs about traditional relationships
Opening Up: A Guide to Creating and Sustaining Open Relationships
Pros
- Comprehensive coverage of various non-monogamy styles and structures
- Practical solutions for common poly challenges like jealousy and time management
- Real-life examples from over 100 practitioners of CNM
Cons
- Some examples may feel dated to modern poly practitioners (Published back in 2008)
The Polyamory Breakup Book: Causes, Prevention, and Survival
Pros
- Specifically written for polyamorous situations and relationship dynamics
- Includes real-life examples from the poly community
- Practical tools for maintaining social relationships post-breakup
Cons
- Some scenarios may not apply to all relationship structures
First up are 2024’s highlights and eagerly anticipated new titles in the category of “polyamory books”.
More Than Two, Second Edition
Finally, the revision we've all been waiting for! This updated edition brings fresh perspectives on cultivating relationships with a focus on kindness and integrity. Perfect for both newcomers and those looking to revisit this classic with fresh eyes.
More: A Memoir of Open Marriage
Are you looking for a raw, and honest memoir that takes you through the ups, downs, and sideways moments of opening up a marriage. No sugar-coating here – just authentic experiences that might have you nodding along.
Monogamy? In this Economy?
Finally, a book about the practical stuff! Author Laura Boyle, of Ready for Polyamory recently released this guide to tackle the nitty-gritty of multiple relationships – from splitting rent to managing shared calendars. Because sometimes love isn't all you need (you also need a budget spreadsheet).
Entwined: Essays on Polyamory and Creating Home
Another first hand experience account, this beautiful collection of essays explores the intersection of polyamory and building community. These essays could help you redefine what "home" really means.
Open: One Woman's Journey Through Love and Polyamory
Earlier in this post we mentioned a memoir of an open marriage, but if a memoir from the perspective of an investigative journalist exploring the delicate balance between autonomy and intimacy sounds more your speed, then check out Open: One Woman's Journey Through Love and Polyamory. Chronicling the journey of a solo woman exploring polyamory through the complexities of opening up and finding herself.
What Is Compersion?: Diverse Sexualities, Genders, and Relationships
Are you ready for a comprehensive deep-dive into everyone's favorite poly buzzword. Spoiler alert: it's more than just "the opposite of jealousy”. Author Dr. Marie Thouin’s groundbreaking work challenges the common misconception that jealousy is the only natural response to a partner's external connections. Especially recommended for professionals providing therapy, coaching or other services to CNM individuals and couples.
Pre-order your copies today, and get a head start on your 2025 reading schedule.
Polyamorous Advice You Won't Get from Your Monogamous Friends
You may know author Sam Cat, better by the name @shrimpteeth. Coming out April 29, 2025, this book promises to take all the pressure off of your well-meaning mono friends, and answer all the questions you're too afraid to ask at your local poly meetup.
The Non-Monogamy Journal: 90+ Scenarios and Questions to Define Boundaries and Make Polyamory Work for You
Available January 21, 2025, and perfect for the introspective explorer, this workbook offers 90+ scenarios to help you figure out your boundaries and relationship style. Warning: may cause excessive self-reflection!
Expansive Love: A Practical Guide to Relationship Anarchy
Due out February 21, 2025, is this fresh take on relationship anarchy that promises to challenge everything you thought you knew about relationships.
In the course of curating this list we wanted to highlight these two books for being not directly “books on polyamory relationships” but ones that challenge the norms that people practicing CNM run up against everyday.
For the Solo Polyamorous
Solo: Building a Remarkable Life of Your Own
Whether you're solo poly by choice, newly separated, or just living your best independent life, this guide celebrates building a remarkable life on your own terms.
Looking for a similar solo perspective with a more non-monogamous lens? Skip down our list to Stepping Off the Relationship Escalator: Uncommon Love and Life.
Because we are all activists
Love in a F*cked-Up World
You might know author Dean Spade from his infamous book, Mutual Aid. This time with a focus on relationships, this raw, real, and occasionally radical guide throws relationship conventions out the window and helps you build connections on your own terms.
Relationship Anarchy: Occupy Intimacy!
The manifesto that started a movement. Still relevant, still radical, still required reading. Originally published in Spain in the spring of 2020, it has since then sold out one edition after another all over the world. Now available in English translation.
Stepping Off the Relationship Escalator
Where does the phrase “off the escalator” even come from? This author’s work. This is one of the first books to help individuals create their own relationship roadmap. Because who says relationships need to follow a predetermined path?
Opening Up
Published all the way back in 2008, this is one of the very few guides out there regarding open relationships that has stood the test of time. If you haven't read it yet, what are you waiting for?
The Polyamory Breakup Book
Because not all relationships last forever, and that's okay. When you experience more relationships, you WILL experience more breakups. That’s just math. But help getting through it without sacrificing your social connections is available in this, the last book on our “Best Polyamory Books for 2025” list.
Where to Buy
Whether you prefer the tactile experience of physical books, the convenience of e-readers, or the multitasking-friendly format of audiobooks, most of these titles are available in multiple formats to suit your reading style.
Bookshop.org vs Amazon
For purchasing, consider supporting independent bookstores through Bookshop.org, where your purchase helps sustain local booksellers. Of course, Amazon offers quick delivery and often the widest selection of formats, including Kindle and Audible versions.
Poly Book Club, Anyone?
Reading these books can be a solo journey of self-discovery, but don't underestimate the power of shared reading experiences.
Consider starting a poly book club with your partners or polycule, or join online discussions here in the comments on our site to share insights and perspectives.
Share Your Reviews with Us
Many readers find that discussing concepts with others helps deepen their understanding.
Have you read any of these titles, and want to share what you thought?
When you click “Read Review” above you can share your own reviews as well as read those from other CNM folx like yourself!
We'd love to hear about your experiences with these books! Share your favorite poly reads in the comments below, or tell us how certain books have influenced your CNM journey.
And don't forget to share this page with your polycule!
