We Read Smut: Bookish Conversations for Romance Readers

Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions of addiction, overdose, and mental health that may be upsetting to some listeners.

Are you ready to break free from the algorithm and discover a world of captivating stories?

In this inaugural episode of We Read Smut, Alesia dives deep into the importance of diversifying your reading list. She explores why representation matters in romance, how reading diversely can broaden your horizons and challenge biases, and how to break free from the limitations of algorithms that often promote only mainstream titles.

Key Takeaways:

• Why Diverse Reading Matters: Alesia shares her personal journey and emphasizes the power of seeing yourself reflected in the stories you read, as well as gaining empathy and understanding for experiences different from your own.
• The 2025 Reading Challenge: Discover the exciting new reading challenge designed to help you explore diverse authors and popular tropes. Each month focuses on a different trope, encouraging you to find books by BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ authors that feature that trope.
• Practical Tips for Diversifying Your Reading: Alesia offers actionable advice on how to actively seek out diverse authors and characters, including following diverse bookstagrammers, exploring different genres, and supporting publishers who prioritize diverse voices.

Ready to embark on a reading adventure that will open your mind and heart? Join the 2025 Reading Challenge and discover the incredible power of diverse reading! 

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.

Welcome to the "We Read Smut" podcast, a safe space for celebrating diversity and exploring all things romance! Join your host, Alesia, as she dives into the world of smutty romance books, discussing inclusive stories, self-development, and sexuality exploration. This podcast is not your typical romance book review show; it's a community for open and honest conversations about smut and the power of diverse love stories.

Key Points:

• Celebrating Diversity: This podcast celebrates stories that showcase diverse characters and experiences, including those of marginalized communities.
• Exploring Sexuality: We Read Smut provides a platform for exploring intimacy, consent, women's pleasure, and healthy relationships through the lens of romance novels.
• Book Recommendations and Discussions: Discover new authors and books, get recommendations, and engage in conversations about various romance tropes and themes.
• Solo Episodes and Educational Content: Alesia will share her reading journey, insights, and tips for navigating the world of romance, including book slump solutions and trope definitions.
• Community and Engagement: Join the We Read Smut community on Instagram to connect with other romance readers and share your thoughts.

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.