This book by James Masten addresses a key topic in HIV care which would have been unthinkable when I began my career 25 years ago as an HIV researcher – ageing with HIV. The very title speaks volumes about how far we have come in this field to be able to think about this issue in a practicable and holistic manner. This book does precisely that. It is written primarily for people living with HIV but will also be a useful text for any professionals involved in HIV care too. Based upon qualitative interviews with 15 American gay men with HIV, the book is written in a very accessible style. Given the participants in the study, the specific reference to gay men in the title is useful – this book may not reflect the experiences of other sections of the population – nor does it claim to do so.

The book is fairly light on the methodology and the experienced researcher would find they had several methodological questions to ask about the conduct, underpinning philosophy and rigour of the study. However, this is not the primary purpose of the book. It really starts with the data organised around a three-part model for optimal ageing with HIV. In a text such as this it is refreshing to see the raw data being used so extensively and clearly to support the discussion and the model being proposed. One gets a real ‘feel’ for how these men are experiencing ageing with HIV. The data are presented with a linking narrative that is well written and leads the reader through these men's experiences very well. Masten's model appears to offer a robust analysis of the issues faced by the participants in his study and presents a useful framework for others to apply in this field.

The book is also designed to be read in sections – which is good – and also includes reflective exercises and ‘fast facts’ to aid understanding. Combined with the data, this can make the narrative a little fragmented. Readers who prefer a traditional writing style may find they have to persevere with this text. However, they will be rewarded if they do so. The book is a good blend of healthy living advice – physical, emotional and spiritual – and covers the issues associated with HIV and ageing very well indeed. Reference is made to the books potential use for group work – a possibility that I think has excellent potential for therapists in the field of HIV care. The book manages a sound blend between accessibility and authoritativeness and is not linked completely to the science of HIV. This means that the book has longevity as it deals with common issues around ageing with HIV that are pervasive.

The main limitation with the book is the number of participants within the original study: although in-depth data collection from 15, this is still a relatively small sample for a doctoral PhD study. As such, the wider applicability of the conceptual discussions will need careful consideration by professionals. However, in providing a well-written account of this HIV-related phenomena, Masten has provided a very useful addition to the HIV literature.