A daring, provocative manifesto on what it means for women to be ‘good’ – and what happens when we stop

A provocative manifesto on what it means for women to be ‘good’ – and what happens when we stop. 'A stunning, big and bold encyclopedia of how to live' LISA TADDEO 'You will finish this book and immediately hand your copy over to your best friend' JENNIFER ANISTON ‘I left feeling energized and galvanized to take back my true f**king freedom’ JAMEELA JAMIL In this groundbreaking exploration of the ancient rules that women unwittingly follow in order to be considered ‘good’, journalist and podcast host Elise Loehnen explains that these impulses – for instance, to show restraint, to be selfless or to prove ourselves in a male-dominated workplace – are ingrained in us by a patriarchal culture that reaps the benefits. So, what would happen if we stopped trying to be ‘good’? Provocative and bold, On Our Best Behaviour reveals an enlightening path towards a more balanced, fulfilled way to live. 'Astute, radical and utterly compelling' KATHERINE MAY 'A guide to liberation and a return to the authentic feminine self' GABOR MATÉ 'Brilliantly reframes our toxic cultural programming' LORI GOTTLIEB

"This enlightening read explores the ways we learn to practise self-denials as women through the lends of the seven deadly sins and the devastating price we pay for it" - Stylist

"Loehnen uses the seven deadly sins to track the ways in which women are encouraged to mute their own desires. It is a manifesto for happiness rather than busyness, for pleasure rather than fasting — a plea to stop racing towards a place that does not exist" - Sunday Times Style

"Loehnen's book is a whirlwind of fury about the way the Seven Deadly Sins have been co-opted to keep us small and obedient" - Sunday Telegraph

"The book is engagingly alive to the complexities involved" - Sydney Morning Herald

"You’re going to love this book’s combination of history and argument and righteousness and kindness" - Cool Story podcast

"Your book, at its essence, is pulling the thread of some pretty long held beliefs and potentially the fabric of society as we know it" - ABC Radio Melbourne

"If you are a people pleaser, feel that you sacrifice your own needs, wants, feelings, and parts of your identity in order to feel loved and accepted, this book is perfect for you. It would also suit teenage girls, women in their 20s and anyone questioning their internal happiness" - Glam Adelaide

"[On Our Best Behaviour] is a thought-provoking read that holds up a mirror to society . . . I devoured this book, even breaking out the highlighters and sticky tabs to mark my favourite quotes. It puts into words experiences I, and many other women, have known but may not have had the words to articulate until now. An absolute must read piece of non-fiction this year" - Fashion Journal

"A deep dive into the everyday challenges faced by 30- and 40-something women, and an insightful look into the deeper societal forces at play. If you are Gen X you will feel" - Primer: 21 of the Best Books We Read This Year

"An engaging work that offers an opportunity for pause and reflection regarding our daily choices" - Kirkus Reviews

"A deep dive into my own psyche of questioning everything" - The View

"A fascinating read . . . it blows your mind. I highly recommend this book . . . I left feeling energized and galvanized to take back my true f**king freedom. And I hope it has the same impact on you" - iWeigh