Courting: An Intimate History of Love and the Law: By Alecia Simmonds. Melbourne: Black Inc Books, imprint La Trobe University Press, 2023. Pp. 448. A$45.00 paper.

"Courting: An Intimate History of Love and the Law" by Alecia Simmonds is a comprehensive and well-researched book that explores the complex relationship between love, intimacy, and the legal system in Australia from 1788 to 1939. The author uses a rich collection of court cases involving breach of promise to reveal the social and emotional dynamics of the time. The book highlights the patriarchal nature of society, where women often bore the consequences of broken promises, and examines the diverse range of individuals involved in these cases. Simmonds also raises questions about the role of the law in addressing contemporary issues of love and relationships. [Extracted from the article]