We Read Smut: Bookish Conversations for Romance Readers

From gritty contemporary to fantastical shifters, today's guest is a USA Today Bestselling author with a dual identity. On We Read Smut, we're exploring the incredible worlds that Jade Hernández, who also writes as Aleera Anaya Ceres, creates under both of those names. Join us as we discuss Jade's journey from a disappointing publishing experience to the freedom of indie publishing, and how she writes diverse characters that break stereotypes and reflect the world we live in.

Jade Hernández is a proud Mexican-American woman who strives to bring more Latinx stories to life within the contemporary romance genre. You may know her as Aleera Anaya Ceres, the USA Today Bestselling Author of diverse fantasy and paranormal works. Under this new penname, she aims to represent her culture by writing sweet, dark, gritty, and fun stories for all. As an introvert, Jade prefers to stay inside with a good book, collect tarot cards, and she's recently found a love for book boxes! She currently lives in Tlaxcala, Mexico with her husband and children.

In this episode, we're discussing:

• How a small press whitewashed her character on a book cover, leading her to discover the creative freedom and control of self-publishing.
• The importance of using Spanish in books to reflect character authenticity, and why readers need to be more understanding.
• The physical toll of signing thousands of books and how readers can be more conscious of authors' capacity and personal circumstances.
• Jade's fantastical shifter romance, where she creates a unique and badass world of mermaid motorcycles and gargoyle demons.

Jade's journey is a powerful reminder of why representation matters, and how authors fight to bring their authentic stories to life. We're so excited to see the worlds she creates, especially her new gargoyle romance!

CONNECT WITH JADE:

Website

Jade Instagram

Aleera Instagram

BOOKS/AUTHORS MENTIONED:

Ink by Jade Hernández

Queenie and the Krakens by Aleera Anaya Ceres

Baby and the Late Night Howlers by Katherine Moon

Steel Demon Series by Crystal Ash

Running list of books mentioned (Doc)

Join the We Read Smut Lounge. Want early access to next week's episode, entry into our private Discord server, two monthly virtual silent book clubs, and a free monthly e-book? Head over to our Substack and join the paid community to access goodies and get early access to episodes. 

Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links in these show notes are affiliate links. If you make a purchase or borrow a book through these links, I may earn a small commission at zero extra cost to you.

Connect with Alesia:
Storygraph

Instagram

Running list of books mentioned (Doc)

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

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the thought of attending a book convention or author signing? Do you want to meet your favorite authors but feel anxious about how to prepare or what to do? On We Read Smut, we're tackling the anxiety of attending bookish events with our special guest, Ricki of Ricki Reads. Ricki and I share our personal strategies for everything from finding the right events to attend, to what to pack, and how to interact with authors without spiraling afterwards.

Ricki is a 24-year-old fat queer biracial romance reader. She focuses on reading and uplifting romances that feature BIPOC, queer, fat, and disabled leads.

In this episode, we're discussing:

• The Importance of Intentionality: Choose events that reflect your values by looking for diverse author lists and attendees.
• Prep and Pack Strategically: Use a book cart to make transporting your books easier, and don't forget to pack comfortable shoes, snacks, and noise-canceling headphones or earplugs to manage overstimulation.
• Respect Boundaries: Always get consent before touching authors or cosplayers, and refrain from sharing intimate details about your personal life with authors. They are not props.
• Manage Your Social Battery: Recognize that it's okay to feel overwhelmed. Plan for a mix of big and smaller events, and allow yourself to take breaks and recharge when you need to.

Whether you're a seasoned event-goer or a first-timer, preparing for bookish events is key to having a positive and fun experience.

CONNECT WITH RICKI:

Instagram

BOOKS/AUTHORS MENTIONED:

Scribbles Bookshop

SteamyLit

Temptation in the Triangle

Running list of books mentioned (Doc)

Join the We Read Smut Lounge. Want early access to next week's episode, entry into our private Discord server, two monthly virtual silent book clubs, and a free monthly e-book? Head over to our Substack and join the paid community to access goodies and get early access to episodes. 

Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links in these show notes are affiliate links. If you make a purchase or borrow a book through these links, I may earn a small commission at zero extra cost to you.

Connect with Alesia:
Storygraph

Instagram

Running list of books mentioned (Doc)

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

Have you ever dreamed of a small town where every love story feels fresh, emotional, and perfectly real? Today on We Read Smut, we're joined by Ambar Cordova, who masterfully crafts these worlds in her small town multicultural romances. Join us as Ambar shares her incredible journey from avid reader to a romance author who writes relatable, messy, and realistic love stories with happy endings.

Ambar Cordova is a romance author of heartfelt multicultural stories. With a focus on raw, emotional storytelling, she creates relatable worlds with flawed characters that feel real. She grew up in the Dominican Republic and brings the diversity as inspiration to her stories. Ambar writes books that readers not only escape into, but also find themselves in. Her debut series, Baker Oaks, features a cozy small town in Florida showing multicultural stories that bring butterflies and sometimes tears to her readers. When Ambar is not writing she’s teaching, spending time with her family and reading. Ambar enjoys boat rides, traveling, and spending time outside.

In this episode, we're discussing:

• From Reader to Author: Ambar's journey began with a COVID-19 book swap, which led her to discover the joy of romance novels and their guaranteed happy endings.
• The Power of Lived Experience: Ambar's books are a reflection of her personal experiences, from growing up in the Dominican Republic to living in a small town in Florida. She believes that good character development can make anyone feel seen in a story, regardless of their background.
• Reclaiming the Small Town Trope: Ambar challenges the stereotypical depiction of small towns in romance by creating progressive, diverse, and realistic communities like her fictional Baker Oaks.
• Celebrating Imperfect Characters: Ambar is confident in writing "messy" and emotional characters that may frustrate readers but are always true to themselves. She embraces the miscommunication trope, believing it adds depth and realism to her stories.

Feeling seen in a story is a powerful thing, and Ambar's work is a testament to the healing power of romance. We're so excited to see her bring more diverse, messy, and wonderfully emotional stories to life. 

CONNECT WITH AMBAR CORDOVA:

Website

Instagram

BOOKS/AUTHORS MENTIONED:

Baker Oaks Series

Running list of books mentioned (Doc)

Join the We Read Smut Lounge. Want early access to next week's episode, entry into our private Discord server, two monthly virtual silent book clubs, and a free monthly e-book? Head over to our Substack and join the paid community to access goodies and get early access to episodes. 

Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links in these show notes are affiliate links. If you make a purchase or borrow a book through these links, I may earn a small commission at zero extra cost to you.

Connect with Alesia:
Storygraph

Instagram

Running list of books mentioned (Doc)

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

You might think book banning is a thing of the past, but it is happening now in communities all over the United States. Today on We Read Smut, we're pulling back the curtain on this critical issue with a special guest, Rachel of Reads with Rachel. Join us as we demystify what book banning really is, who it targets, and what we as parents, readers, and lovers of smut can do to make a difference in our local communities.

Rachel is a passionate book content creator and the force behind Reads with Rachel. Her journey into advocacy began when she saw books being challenged in her own county, prompting her to use her platform to fight back against censorship. With a direct, no-nonsense approach, Rachel educates her audience on the insidious tactics used to limit access to books and empowers them with actionable ways to defend the freedom to read.

In this episode, we're discussing:

• What "book banning" truly means and how it's a slow, incremental process of removing access, not just a federal ban.
• The insidious link between banning books and trying to erase the existence of marginalized communities, particularly LGBTQIA+ people.
• Examples of the kinds of books being targeted, from queer picture books to poetry and even young adult fiction.
• How these censorship efforts, while starting in schools and libraries, will eventually impact adult readers and smut books.

Feeling fired up and ready to fight back? Listen to the full episode for concrete actions you can take to support your local libraries and defend the freedom to read! Follow Rachel on YouTube at Reads with Rachel, and join her Julie Hates This Book Club for more conversation and fun.

CONNECT WITH READS WITH RACHEL:

YouTube

Instagram

BOOKS/AUTHORS MENTIONED:

This Book is Gay by Juno Dawson (Amazon)

In the Dream House by Carmen Maria Machado (Amazon)

All Boys Aren't Blue by George M. Johnson (Amazon)

Milk and Honey by Ruby Carr (Amazon)

Ban this Book by Alan Gratz (Amazon)

Katie the Catsitter 2 by Colleen AF Venable (Amazon)

Running list of books mentioned (Doc)

Join the We Read Smut Lounge. Want early access to next week's episode, entry into our private Discord server, two monthly virtual silent book clubs, and a free monthly e-book? Head over to our Substack and join the paid community to access goodies and get early access to episodes. 

Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links in these show notes are affiliate links. If you make a purchase or borrow a book through these links, I may earn a small commission at zero extra cost to you.

Connect with Alesia:
Storygraph

Instagram

Running list of books mentioned (Doc)

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

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)

Join the We Read Smut Lounge. Want early access to next week's episode, entry into our private Discord server, two monthly virtual silent book clubs, and a free monthly e-book? Head over to our Substack and join the paid community to access goodies and get early access to episodes. 

Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links in these show notes are affiliate links. If you make a purchase or borrow a book through these links, I may earn a small commission at zero extra cost to you.

Connect with Alesia:
Storygraph

Instagram

Running list of books mentioned (Doc)

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)

Join the We Read Smut Lounge. Want early access to next week's episode, entry into our private Discord server, two monthly virtual silent book clubs, and a free monthly e-book? Head over to our Substack and join the paid community to access goodies and get early access to episodes. 

Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links in these show notes are affiliate links. If you make a purchase or borrow a book through these links, I may earn a small commission at zero extra cost to you.

Connect with Alesia:
Storygraph

Instagram

Running list of books mentioned (Doc)

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)

Join the We Read Smut Lounge. Want early access to next week's episode, entry into our private Discord server, two monthly virtual silent book clubs, and a free monthly e-book? Head over to our Substack and join the paid community to access goodies and get early access to episodes. 

Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links in these show notes are affiliate links. If you make a purchase or borrow a book through these links, I may earn a small commission at zero extra cost to you.

Connect with Alesia:
Storygraph

Instagram

Running list of books mentioned (Doc)

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

Join the We Read Smut Lounge. Want early access to next week's episode, entry into our private Discord server, two monthly virtual silent book clubs, and a free monthly e-book? Head over to our Substack and join the paid community to access goodies and get early access to episodes. 

Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links in these show notes are affiliate links. If you make a purchase or borrow a book through these links, I may earn a small commission at zero extra cost to you.

Connect with Alesia:
Storygraph

Instagram

Running list of books mentioned (Doc)

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 (they/she), also known as Aricka Alexander, to explore their unique author journey and 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 their beloved books and their 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 they were 15, was motivated by the lack of Black representation in books set in their hometown.
• Their intentional creation of an alternate reality where WNBA players are highly paid and can be drafted at 18, challenging real-world inequities.
• They exclusively focuses on writing Black sapphic and queer romance to address the underrepresentation of these stories.
• Their preference for emotionally mature characters who communicate, leading them to avoid the miscommunication and third-act breakup tropes.
• How they 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 their 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)

Join the We Read Smut Lounge. Want early access to next week's episode, entry into our private Discord server, two monthly virtual silent book clubs, and a free monthly e-book? Head over to our Substack and join the paid community to access goodies and get early access to episodes. 

Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links in these show notes are affiliate links. If you make a purchase or borrow a book through these links, I may earn a small commission at zero extra cost to you.

Connect with Alesia:
Storygraph

Instagram

Running list of books mentioned (Doc)

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)

Join the We Read Smut Lounge. Want early access to next week's episode, entry into our private Discord server, two monthly virtual silent book clubs, and a free monthly e-book? Head over to our Substack and join the paid community to access goodies and get early access to episodes. 

Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links in these show notes are affiliate links. If you make a purchase or borrow a book through these links, I may earn a small commission at zero extra cost to you.

Connect with Alesia:
Storygraph

Instagram

Running list of books mentioned (Doc)

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