"Kelley's book provides further evidence that our relational intimacy is a central part of our health across our relational histories and our lifespan. He sets the stage of intimacy by first illustrating for us why relational communication is a significant part of our wellness and, as such, should become both an individual and relational priority. He also pulls down the veil, dispelling common myths which can act as barriers to our relational health, even providing 'best practices' for overcoming these barriers. Kelley's final contribution to this conversation about intimacy is bringing to the forefront communication competencies that help us capitalize on opportunities for intimacy in overlooked or unexpected facets of life. Kelley easily interweaves multiple theoretical frameworks to push the boundaries on what it means to enact intimacy. Throughout, readers will be transported into this conversation about intimacy through powerful, authentic narratives and metaphors that will speak to one's inner core all while masterfully acting as tools for behavioral modeling and cognitive processing. Whether readers seek to develop knowledge in the field or extend their research and practice, they will undoubtedly walk away with personal and relational growth as well." Carla L. Fisher, Ph.D., Associate Professor, University of Florida, UF Health Cancer Center, Director, Family Health Lifespan Communication Lab
"In this aptly named book, Doug Kelley engages his reader in a conversation, moving between core relational concepts and personal stories, to propose an expanded way to increase true intimacy across relationship types. This book is ideal for relationship researchers, college classrooms, and personal enrichment. For all readers, Kelley offers his years of experience and his own journey to encourage all of us to grow in our thinking, talking about, and living out out relationships with greater closeness and fulfillment."
Valerie Manusov, Professor in the Department of Communication, University of Washington, Seattle
"Do you want to achieve and/or improve intimacy in all your relationships? If you do, then I highly recommend Intimate Spaces, which is the most honest, straight-forward, accessible, and thorough discussion of intimacy that I have ever read. Kelley explores the real challenges of achieving intimacy, as well as highlights how intimacy can be experienced through talk, sex, play, grief, conflict, and forgiveness. He gives relatable, helpful, clear examples, and explanations, as well as challenges you to look at your relationships to achieve greater intimacy in all of them. I LOVE this book and highly urge you to read it!"
Maureen P. Keeley, Ph.D., Professor at Texas State University, Relational and Family Communication Scholar
"Doug Kelley is a leading voice in the field of personal relationships. This exciting new work is authentic, deeply personal, and highly relatable--a must-read for students and all of us who seek intimate, meaningful relationships."
Vincent Waldron, Professor of Communication Studies, Lincoln Professor of Applied Ethics, Arizona State University
