As an author myself, I know that when asked to revise one's previously written work it's a huge temptation to simply check that the facts are still accurate, the research is still current and the telephone numbers still connect – then call it a job done. I'm proud that I've never succumbed to that temptation, but many have – and many ‘fully revised’ books have obviously had only a cursory glance. The second edition of Sex Matters for Women, however, pays far more than such lip service.

The original …