A fractious intimate relationship develops between an Irish woman, an English man, and her girlfriend.
Two ungendered characters contest the same female body.
A deserted wife takes a lover but remains unsatisfied.
Lauren Foley's debut collection of dramatic short stories, Polluted Sex, is fearless in its depiction of women's bodies and sexuality, offering an unflinching window into Irish girl and womanhood.
'With her form-bending debut collection, Polluted Sex, Irish/Australian Lauren Foley joins a cohort of contemporary authors - including Cathy Sweeney, Claire-Louise Bennett, Eimear McBride - whose work seems dissatisfied with narrative conventions. What happens when we blow them open? ... Polluted Sex alternately challenges, interests, confuses, humours, shocks, and engages its reader. What art ought to do.' - Irish Independent
'Like Kathy Acker after a glut of whiskeys, these stories are seductive, hilarious, rejuvenating and intimate. Lauren Foley's characters have barbarous tongues and know how to use them. Lacerating and sexy, the heat sears off (and through) the pages. A scorching portrait of the female psyche. Uncompromising and raw. A new voice in Irish fiction.' - June Caldwell
'Lauren Foley's debut Polluted Sex (Influx Press) ... an explicit, raw, and at times surreal portrait of girl and womanhood, discovered through sexual and bodily adventure and misadventure. ... Religion, desire and sin are laid bare and made strange in Foley's succulent language that drips from the page like an overripe fruit, sweet but spoiling at the same time.' - Books Ireland
'Lauren Foley is a gifted, fearless writer. These vivid, dynamic stories range from the visceral to the experimental with moments of intense, expressive lyricism.' - Lia Mills
'Short stories filled with darkness and moments of pure gold.' - Cristn Leach
A fractious intimate relationship develops between an Irish woman, an English man, and her girlfriend.
Two ungendered characters contest the same female body.
A deserted wife takes a lover but remains unsatisfied.
Lauren Foley's debut collection of dramatic short stories, Polluted Sex, is fearless in its depiction of women's bodies and sexuality, offering an unflinching window into Irish girl and womanhood.
'With her form-bending debut collection, Polluted Sex, Irish/Australian Lauren Foley joins a cohort of contemporary authors - including Cathy Sweeney, Claire-Louise Bennett, Eimear McBride - whose work seems dissatisfied with narrative conventions. What happens when we blow them open? ... Polluted Sex alternately challenges, interests, confuses, humours, shocks, and engages its reader. What art ought to do.' - Irish Independent
'Like Kathy Acker after a glut of whiskeys, these stories are seductive, hilarious, rejuvenating and intimate. Lauren Foley's characters have barbarous tongues and know how to use them. Lacerating and sexy, the heat sears off (and through) the pages. A scorching portrait of the female psyche. Uncompromising and raw. A new voice in Irish fiction.' - June Caldwell
'Lauren Foley's debut Polluted Sex (Influx Press) ... an explicit, raw, and at times surreal portrait of girl and womanhood, discovered through sexual and bodily adventure and misadventure. ... Religion, desire and sin are laid bare and made strange in Foley's succulent language that drips from the page like an overripe fruit, sweet but spoiling at the same time.' - Books Ireland
'Lauren Foley is a gifted, fearless writer. These vivid, dynamic stories range from the visceral to the experimental with moments of intense, expressive lyricism.' - Lia Mills
'Short stories filled with darkness and moments of pure gold.' - Cristn Leach
Winner, Sexuality and Politics Book Award - American Political Science AssociationFinalist, PROSE Award - Government and PoliticsWhat the evolving fight for transgender rights reveals about...
BookLoop is your trusted local Australian destination for books, games, toys, puzzles, tarot cards, stationery, and thoughtful gifts, offering a huge range of carefully curated products for curious minds of all ages. As a proudly Australian-owned bookstore, we are passionate about connecting our community with inspiring reads, creative play, and unique finds that bring joy, spark imagination, and support lifelong learning. Whether you're shopping for bestselling fiction, children’s picture books, educational resources, or non-fiction titles that encourage mental health, mindfulness, and personal growth, our ever-expanding book collection has something for everyone—including titles from local Australian authors that celebrate homegrown talent and storytelling. But we’re more than just a bookstore—our diverse range includes engaging puzzles for solo or family fun, educational and screen-free toys designed to develop skills and creativity, and family-friendly board games that bring people together. If you're looking for something with a little extra meaning, our beautifully illustrated tarot cards and oracle decks are perfect for beginners and seasoned readers alike, with options chosen for their artistry, symbolism, and accessibility. We also carry a range of gifts and stationery, from handcrafted journals and high-quality pens to bookmarks, greeting cards, candles, and calming tools, making it easy to find the perfect present for birthdays, celebrations, or simply because. Every product on our shelves is selected with care, quality, and purpose, making BookLoop a one-stop shop for thoughtful, meaningful shopping that supports creativity and wellbeing. We believe in the value of small business and community connection, which is why we’re committed to sourcing products that reflect our values and offering the kind of friendly, personalised service that big retailers can’t match. When you shop with us, you’re not only choosing beautifully curated items—you’re supporting a local Australian business that genuinely cares. We ship Australia-wide with a flat rate to keep things simple and affordable, and every order is carefully packed and quickly dispatched by our small, dedicated team. Our online shopping experience is safe, easy, and user-friendly, making it convenient to explore our wide range of books, gifts, and games from the comfort of home. We’ve seen a growing demand for titles and toys that support mental health, especially in children and teens, and we’re proud to stock a growing number of books on ADHD, emotional regulation, positive thinking, and self-esteem, as well as calming puzzles and sensory-friendly gifts that are both fun and supportive. Whether you're looking to inspire a young reader, encourage imaginative play, find your next favourite novel, or gift someone something truly special, BookLoop has you covered. Thank you for choosing to shop local and support a business that believes in the power of stories, creativity, and connection—explore our full collection today and experience the difference of thoughtful, heart-led retail with BookLoop.
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