This book investigates the complex relationship between feminist theory and the expression and reception of affect, particularly within argumentative contexts. Barbara Tomlinson, drawing on her background in rhetoric and cultural studies, examines how emotions are deployed, understood, and contested in feminist discourse. The work presents an argument for a more nuanced understanding of affect's role in shaping feminist politics and intellectual engagement.

This work is recognized for its rigorous engagement with both feminist theory and affect studies, offering a sophisticated analysis of emotional dynamics in academic and political discourse. Scholars in rhetoric and gender studies have noted its contribution to understanding how affect shapes argumentation. The book is considered a valuable resource for those seeking to deepen their comprehension of the intersection between emotion and feminist intellectual traditions.