Romance novels are an incredible way to navigate all aspects of our lives, including grief. Do you find yourself struggling to process loss or looking for stories that reflect the complexities of healing? Today on We Read Smut, we have a special interview with author Rae Shawn, who shares her personal journey of healing after loss and how she beautifully integrates themes of grief into her romance novels. Join us for a heartfelt and insightful conversation on processing grief and finding love on the other side.

Rae Shawn is a candle-buying, night-owl, who overthinks everything, but manages to get things done. She writes contemporary Black romances that’ll have you up in arms for the heroes, and sometimes, even the villains. When she isn’t writing, she’s dancing around her living room or watching reruns of Supernatural and all the anime she can find. Rae lives on the East Coast but will never forget her summer-living Los Angeles days. 

In this episode, we're discussing:

• How Rae Shawn's personal experiences with grief have inspired her to write stories that showcase healing and reconnection.
• The importance of showing that grief is a lifelong journey, with moments that can still hit you years after a loss.
• Why it's crucial to portray a world with diverse characters, including queer and trans friends, reflecting the reality we live in.
• How romance novels can explore different kinds of loss, not just from death, but also the mental and emotional taxing of losing parts of yourself.

Ready to read stories that feel like a warm hug and a good cry all at once? Tune in to this amazing conversation with Rae Shawn. 

CONNECT WITH RAE SHAWN:

Website

Instagram

Running list of books mentioned (Doc)

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Connect with Alesia:
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This podcast was produced by Galati Media.
Proud member of the Feminist Podcasters Collective.

Beyond the steamy scenes, how do our favorite romance novels talk about sexual wellness? Are you tired of problematic language like "clean" or "dirty" when discussing sex and STIs in books? Today on We Read Smut, we're diving into the nuances of consent, communication, and ditching judgmental language around sexual health with Jillian of Only One Bookshelf. Join us for a frank and insightful conversation that will change how you think about sexual wellness in fiction and real life.

Jillian Carmichael is a virologist and romance enthusiast who rejects the notion that scientists must be always be serious. After growing up in evangelical purity culture and marrying her college sweetheart, Jillian promptly deconstructed and spent 6 years getting her PhD studying herpes. Yes, THAT herpes. Taking a big risk for her postdoctoral endeavors, Jillian, her spouse, and their two kids moved to a tiny apartment in NYC... 8 months before the COVID pandemic. Those hectic early pandemic days working as a virologist in NYC prompted her to search for an outlet of joy, and that's how she discovered romance novels. Now, Jillian and her family live outside DC and she spends her free time reading, going on family adventures, running, and advocating for science (especially public health and infectious disease) to anyone who will listen.

In this episode, we're discussing:

• Why using terms like "clean" or "dirty" to describe sexual health or intimacy in romance novels is problematic and stems from purity culture.
• The importance of consent in romance and how positive examples in books can equip readers for real-life conversations.
• How romance novels can serve as valuable educational tools for sexual health, covering topics often missed in formal sex education or misrepresented elsewhere.
• The critical need to destigmatize STIs like herpes and HIV, moving away from portraying them as character flaws in fiction.

CONNECT WITH JILLIAN:

Instagram

BOOKS/AUTHORS MENTIONED:

That Kind of Guy by Talia Hibbert (Amazon)

A Thorn in the Saddle by Rebekah Weatherspoon (Amazon)

Bottle Rocket by Erin McLellan (Amazon)

I Think They Love You by Julian Winters (Amazon)

Heated Rivalry by Rachel Reid (Amazon)

Tough Guy by Rachel Reid (Amazon)

Almost Love by Anna P (Amazon)

Running list of books mentioned (Doc)

Thank you for listening to the We Read Smut Podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag @WeReadSmut. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast.

Connect with Alesia:
Storygraph

This podcast was produced by Galati Media.
Proud member of the Feminist Podcasters Collective.

Ever wonder what really goes on behind the scenes of publishing, or how authors navigate both traditional and indie routes? Are you craving a dark romance that pushes boundaries and reimagines classic tales? On We Read Smut, we're pulling back the curtain with USA Today Bestselling Author Naima Simone. Get ready for a candid conversation about the publishing process, the importance of BIPOC representation in literature, and a sneak peek at her incredibly anticipated new dark romance.

Published since 2009, USA Today Bestselling author Naima Simone loves writing sizzling romances with heart, a touch of humor, and snark. Her books have been featured in The Washington Post and Entertainment Weekly, and described as balancing “crackling, electric love scenes with exquisitely rendered characters caught in emotional turmoil.” She is wife to Superman, or his non-Kryptonian, less bulletproof equivalent, and mother to the most awesome kids ever. They all live in perfect, sometimes domestically-challenged bliss in the southern United States.

In this episode, we're discussing:

• The realities of the publishing process, from editorial feedback to marketing strategies in both traditional and indie routes.
• The critical importance of BIPOC authors celebrating and amplifying their own stories and community.
• How Church Girl explores breaking free from strict religious expectations and finding personal truth while maintaining faith.
• Naima's exciting foray into dark romance with Huntsman, a gritty, unhinged Snow White retelling.
• How Naima challenges herself to write stories without limits, embracing unhinged female characters and darker themes.

Ready to get the inside scoop on publishing and discover your next favorite dark romance? Tune in to this amazing conversation with Naima Simone! Check out Church Girl and pre-order Huntsman wherever books are sold, or get exclusive pre-order perks from Eagle Eye Bookshop. Don't forget to follow, rate, and review the We Read Smut podcast!

CONNECT WITH NAIMA SIMONE:

Website

Instagram

Facebook

BOOKS/AUTHORS MENTIONED:

Church Girl by Naima Simone (Amazon)

Ravaged by Naima Simone (Amazon)

To Conquer a Bride by Naima Simone (Amazon)

Preorder Huntsman at Eagle Eye Bookshop. Make sure you select the format including the preorder bonuses.

Running list of books mentioned (Doc)

Thank you for listening to the We Read Smut Podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag @WeReadSmut. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast.

Connect with Alesia:
Storygraph

This podcast was produced by Galati Media.
Proud member of the Feminist Podcasters Collective.

For some, it's sacrilege. For others, it's pure magic. Today, we're talking about annotating books, and we're going to demystify it with the fantastic Deshea of Books With Deshea. Whether you're a seasoned annotator or have always been hesitant to mark up your precious books, this episode of We Read Smut will transform your perspective on connecting with your reads. Deshea shares invaluable insights and tips that might just convert even the most annotation-averse readers (like Alesia!).

Deshea is a high-energy first-grade teacher and the creator of Books with Desh, a bookstagram where she shares her love for romance books, annotations, and all things cozy and creative. She’s currently channeling her creativity into making stickers, bookmarks, and launching an annotated book shop, always finding new ways to bring stories—and people—together.

In this episode, we're discussing:

• Deshea's adult reading journey and how she first started annotating books in high school.
• The profound benefits of annotating, including deeper connection and improved retention with books.
• Why she views tabbing a book as a valid form of annotation, even without writing notes.
• Practical advice for beginners, from testing pens on the acknowledgements page to starting with beloved rereads or secondhand books.
• How she combines scrapbooking elements, emoji stickers, and even custom annotation keys to make her reading experience unique and fun.
• Her Etsy shop and the various annotation kits she offers, designed to make the process accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
• The importance of maintaining the joy of reading, even when creating bookish content or running a small business.

Ready to personalize your reading experience and connect with your books on a whole new level? Explore Deshea's annotation tips and kits! You can find her on Instagram and Etsy by searching "Books With Deshea". Don't forget to follow, rate, and review the We Read Smut podcast!

CONNECT WITH DESHEA:

Etsy

Instagram

Thank you for listening to the We Read Smut Podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag @WeReadSmut. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast.

Connect with Alesia:
Storygraph

This podcast was produced by Galati Media.
Proud member of the Feminist Podcasters Collective.

Ready to dive into the captivating world of Black Sapphic Romance, where authentic representation takes center stage? In this episode of We Read Smut, Alesia sits down with author Arii, also known as Aricka Alexander, to explore her unique author journey and her commitment to crafting inclusive queer love stories. From writing about Black characters from a young age to creating an alternate reality where WNBA players receive equal pay, Arii shares the inspiration behind her beloved books and her dedication to showcasing diverse experiences. 

Arii (Aricka Alexander) is a Louisiana native who loves to write stories about Black sapphics in love.

In this episode, we're discussing:

• Arii's writing journey, which started when she was 15 and was motivated by the lack of Black representation in books set in her hometown.
• Her intentional creation of an alternate reality where WNBA players are highly paid and can be drafted at 18, challenging real-world inequities.
• Why she exclusively focuses on writing Black sapphic and queer romance to address the underrepresentation of these stories.
• Her preference for emotionally mature characters who communicate, leading her to avoid the miscommunication and third-act breakup tropes.
• How she weaves in diverse character experiences, including pansexual and non-binary characters, and addresses issues like internalized lesbophobia within supportive narratives.

Ready to embrace more diverse love stories? Arii's books are available on Amazon and Kindle Unlimited, or you can find signed copies on her website. 

CONNECT WITH ARII:

Website

Instagram

BOOKS/AUTHORS MENTIONED:

Sunflower (Amazon)

Azaleas (Amazon)

Down South Bayou (Amazon)

Deeply Loved Bayou (Amazon)

Always There Bayou (Amazon)

Sweet Like Honey (Amazon)

Amaranthine (Amazon)

Gorgeous Jade Heart (Amazon)

Let Me Free You by Alexandria House (Amazon)

Intrigued by Danger (Amazon)

Where There’s Smoke (Amazon)

Running list of books mentioned (Doc)

Thank you for listening to the We Read Smut Podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag @WeReadSmut. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast.

Connect with Alesia:
Storygraph

This podcast was produced by Galati Media.
Proud member of the Feminist Podcasters Collective.

Are you drowning in a sea of "must-read" books, constantly adding to an overflowing TBR, and struggling to find a book that truly resonates with you? In this episode of We Read Smut, I’m going to help you navigate the vast world of book recommendations and discover your perfect next read. Say goodbye to disappointing, overhyped books and hello to reads that genuinely excite you!

Key Takeaways:

• Recognize Overhyped Books: Understand that overly hyped books may not be the best fit for your personal reading preferences and it's okay to skip them.
• Embrace the DNF (Did Not Finish): Life's too short, and your TBR is too long, to force yourself through a book you're not enjoying.
• Identify Your Unique Reading Preferences: Go beyond genre and consider your mood, desired pace, specific themes (like kinks or tropes), and the representation you seek (LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, disability)
• Seek Out Diverse Creators & Niche Communities: Actively follow diverse book creators, explore specific hashtags like #OwnVoices, and join diverse book clubs or reading challenges to find new authors and perspectives.
• Leverage Local Expertise & Direct Requests: Don't hesitate to ask booksellers at your local bookstore or library for recommendations, and post highly specific book requests on platforms like Threads or Facebook groups to get tailored suggestions.

Ready to expand your reading horizons and discover those hidden gems? Take these tips and start exploring new places for your next read! Which strategy will you try first?

BOOKS/AUTHORS MENTIONED:

Diverse Bookstagrammers to follow from 2023

Diverse Trope Challenge | On Storygraph

Diverse Baseline Challenge | On Storygraph

Sapphic Reading Challenge | On Storygraph

20 Books by Black Women Challenge | On Storygraph

Running list of books mentioned (Doc)

Thank you for listening to the We Read Smut Podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag @WeReadSmut. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast.

Connect with Alesia:
Storygraph

This podcast was produced by Galati Media.
Proud member of the Feminist Podcasters Collective.

Reading slumps can happen to even the most passionate book lovers, leaving you feeling unmotivated and disconnected from your favorite stories. In this season finale episode, podcast host Alesia dives deep into understanding reading slumps and provides practical strategies to reignite your reading passion. 

Key Takeaways:

Recognize Common Causes of Reading Slumps

• Stress and burnout 
• Information overload 
• Life transitions
• Disappointment with previous reads

Effective Strategies to Overcome Reading Slumps

• Take a short break from reading
• Set realistic reading goals 
• Change your reading environment 
• Explore different genres and book formats 
• Connect with other readers

Don't let a reading slump discourage you. Remember, reading should be enjoyable, not a chore. Give yourself permission to explore, experiment, and most importantly, have fun with your reading journey.

Running list of books mentioned (Doc)

Thank you for listening to the We Read Smut Podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag @WeReadSmut. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast.

Connect with Alesia:
Storygraph

This podcast was produced by Galati Media.
Proud member of the Feminist Podcasters Collective.

What makes historical romance more than just bodice-ripping stories? Historical romance is a genre far more complex and diverse than many readers realize. Far from being limited to Regency-era England and stereotypical duke narratives, this genre offers rich storytelling that explores complex social dynamics, personal growth, and diverse experiences across different time periods and cultures.

Clare from @UnsuccessfulBookClub is a life-long bookworm with a penchant for science fiction, fantasy, and romance. She has recently developed a deep interest in historical romance. When she isn't reading, she enjoys cooking, eating, and taking her children to soccer games, often while neglecting her laundry.

In this episode, we're discussing:

• How historical romance spans multiple eras, from medieval times to the 1970s
• Ways the genre has evolved to include diverse representation, including LGBTQ+ and characters of color
• How modern historical romances tackle important themes like consent, social justice, and personal empowerment
• How some authors like Beverly Jenkins and Alyssa Cole are transforming the genre with nuanced, inclusive storytelling
• Ways that tropes like marriage of convenience and forbidden love add depth and tension to historical narratives

Join the "Queering Historical Romance" challenge in June and discover the incredible diversity of historical romance. Follow @UnsuccessfulBookClub on Instagram for recommendations and start your journey into this dynamic genre today!

CONNECT WITH CLARE:

Instagram

BOOKS/AUTHORS MENTIONED:

Bookshop.org Affiliate Shop

Morning Glory Milking Farm by C.M. Nascosta (Amazon)

Lisa Kleypas (Amazon)

Jilie Anne Long (Amazon)

The Flame and the Flower by Kathleen Woodiwiss (Amazon)

A Lady for a Duke by Alexis Hall (Amazon)

Spindle Cove Series by Tessa Dare (Amazon)

Desperate Duchesses by Eloisa James (Amazon)

The Brothers Sinister by Courtney Milan (Amazon)

Worth Saga by Courtney Milan (Amazon)

A Notorious Vow by Joanna Shupe (Amazon)

A Shore Thing by Joanna Lowell (Amazon)

A Caribbean Heiress in Paris by Adriana Herrera (Amazon)

Desire by Amanda Quick (Amazon)

Surrender My Love by Johanna Lindsey (Amazon)

Hold Fast by Eliza MacArthur (Amazon)

Running list of books mentioned (Doc)

Thank you for listening to the We Read Smut Podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag @WeReadSmut. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast.

Connect with Alesia:
Storygraph

This podcast was produced by Galati Media.
Proud member of the Feminist Podcasters Collective.

Are You Healing from Purity Culture? Purity culture can leave deep emotional scars that impact our understanding of sexuality, relationships, and self-worth. In this powerful episode, sexuality educator Lauren Elise Rogers joins us to explore how individuals can reclaim their sexual identity and find healing through the transformative power of erotic imagination.

Lauren Elise Rogers is a Certified Holistic Sexuality Educator, Embodied Intimacy & Relationship Coach, and the founder of Sex Ed For You, where she provides clear, compassionate, and comprehensive guidance on intimacy, relationships, and sexual health. 

Her holistic and embodied approach to education and coaching is deeply rooted in her own pain-to-purpose journey. She is known for creating shame-free spaces, where she invites individuals and couples to navigate complex topics like: Long-Term Partnerships, Purity Culture Obstacles, Consensual Non-Monogamy, Life Transitions, Mismatched Libido, & LGBTQIA+ issues. Despite growing up in "Purity Culture," where dating and physical intimacy were forbidden, Lauren now proudly centers agency and autonomy in her redemptive love story with her partner.

In this episode, we're discussing:

• Sexual fantasies are a normal and healthy way to explore your desires safely, with women typically placing themselves at the center of their erotic imagination.
• Purity culture creates harmful beliefs that tie personal worth to sexual purity, limiting individual sexual expression and self-understanding.
• Erotic literature can be a powerful tool for sexual healing, allowing individuals to explore fantasies and understand their core erotic themes without judgment.
• Communication with partners about sexual fantasies and desires can strengthen relationships and create deeper intimacy.
• Parents play a crucial role in sex education, and addressing personal sexual shame is essential to providing healthy guidance for children.
• Solo sexual exploration is a valuable journey of self-discovery that can help individuals understand their desires and build sexual confidence.
• The four core erotic themes (longing, prohibition, power dynamics, and overcoming ambivalence) can help people understand their unique sexual preferences.

Your sexual journey is uniquely yours. Start reclaiming your narrative today by exploring literature that speaks to your experiences, and remember: healing is a personal, powerful process of self-discovery and liberation.

CONNECT WITH LAUREN ELISE ROGERS:

Website

Instagram

BOOKS/AUTHORS MENTIONED:

Lauren on the Pleasure in the Pause Podcast

The Erotic Mind By Jack Morin (Amazon)

Ep 9 - Asexuality, Aromanticism, and the Spectrum of Identity with Margherita Scialla

Running list of books mentioned (Doc)

Thank you for listening to the We Read Smut Podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag @WeReadSmut. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast.

Connect with Alesia:
Storygraph

This podcast was produced by Galati Media.
Proud member of the Feminist Podcasters Collective.

In the bookish space, readers tend to incorrectly categorize Black stories. It’s important that we understand the differences between genres and subgenres of Black literature. Join us for an great conversation with Aniya, known as the Well Read Pharmacist, as we break down the nuanced world of urban fiction, urban romance, Black contemporary romance, and urban erotica.

Aniya, also known as The Well Read Pharmacist, is a pharmacist and avid reader from New Orleans, Louisiana. She loves escaping into a good book, especially within the romance and thriller genres!

In this episode, we're discussing:

• Urban Fiction vs. Urban Romance: Learn the critical differences between these often-confused genres
• Discover why not all Black books are "urban" and why that matters
• Explore recommended authors across urban fiction, romance, and erotica subgenres
• Understand the importance of reading diverse Black literature
• Get insider recommendations from a passionate book lover and pharmacist

Expand your reading horizons by exploring these rich, diverse genres. Challenge your assumptions, support Black authors, and dive into stories that represent complex, multifaceted Black experiences. 

CONNECT WITH ANIYA:

Instagram

BOOKS/AUTHORS MENTIONED:

Instagram Post from The Well Read Pharmacist

The Coldest Winter Ever by Sister Souljah (Amazon)

Carl Weber (Amazon)

Nikki Clarke (Amazon)

Vickie M. Stringer (Amazon)

The Cartel Series by Ashley and Jaquavis (Amazon)

Murder Mamas by Ashley and Jaquavis (Amazon)

T’Lyn (Amazon)

Shvonne Latrice (Amazon)

To The Only Thug I’ll Ever Love by K.L. Hall (Amazon)

My Little Love by Charae Lewis (Amazon)

When a Gangsta Calls by Lex C. (Amazon)

Alexandria House (Episode | Amazon)

Alex Warren (Amazon)

Christina C. Jones (Amazon)

Marlee Rae (Amazon)

Bailey West (Amazon)

Tiye Love (Amazon)

Dria Andersen (Amazon |  Episode)

Natavia (Amazon)

Jade Royal (Amazon)

Katrina Jackson (Amazon)

Running list of books mentioned (Doc)

Thank you for listening to the We Read Smut Podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag @WeReadSmut. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast.

Connect with Alesia:
Storygraph

This podcast was produced by Galati Media.
Proud member of the Feminist Podcasters Collective.