We Read Smut: Bookish Conversations for Romance Readers
Finally, a home for the spice you love and the representation you deserve. We Read Smut, hosted by Alesia, builds a judgment-free zone for readers who crave spicy plots and substance. We celebrate high-heat stories and inclusive casts. If you want open-door romance that features every body, you found the right show.
What to expect:
- Trope Breakdowns: We dissect the best (and hottest) tropes in the genre.
- Author Interviews: Hear the story behind the spice from your favorite creators.
- Shelf Help: Expert guidance to help you conquer your TBR pile.
- Inclusive Stories: We prioritize representative leads and diverse voices.
Whether you're a seasoned smut reader or just dipping your toes into the genre, this podcast is for you. We leave the shame at the door and celebrate the power of a well-written romance.
Join the Circle: Want personalized book picks and a private chat with Alesia? Join the After Dark Circle on Substack. Supporters get full access to every post and our private community of romance fans.
Connect with us: Follow @WeReadSmut on Instagram and use the hashtag #WeReadSmut to share your current read.
We Read Smut: Bookish Conversations for Romance Readers
My Top Reads & Audiobooks of 2025 + What is Smut?
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Wow! Season Two has been incredible, and we're closing it out with a deep dive into the core question of this podcast: What is smut, exactly? I’m breaking down my personal spice rating scale, defining the difference between romance and erotica (hint: it's all about the plot!).
Plus, I’m looking back at my most memorable 2025 reads, sharing my Top 5 Audiobooks, Spiciest Reads, and Overall Favorites, and revealing my terrifying 2026 reading adjustments—including joining a book club!
Episode Key Takeaways:
- Smut vs. Erotica Defined
- The We Read Smut Spice Scale
- Top Overall Reads of 2025
- 2026 Reading Adjustments
Top 5 Overall Reads of 2025
- Hear My Heart by Tay Mo'Nae
- Streams and Schemes by Rebecca Kincaid
- A Notorious Vow by Joanna Shupe
- Outdrawn by Deanna Gray
- All Superheroes Need Photo Ops by Elizabeth Stephens
Top 5 Audiobooks of 2025
- They Call Him NAS by KC Mills
- Yours for Now by Leonor Soliz
- Lilith by Alexandria House
- Plus Size Player by Danielle Allen
- The MurderBot Diaries by Martha Wells
Top 5 Spiciest Reads of 2025
- Intrigued by Danger by Endiya Carter
- Don't Run by SHON
- You Hide I'll Seek by ML Bash
- Huntsman by Naima Simone
- Toxic by Kenya Goree-Bell
Other Books Mentioned:
Guava Flavored Lies by J. J. Arias
Mentioned Episodes:
Join the After Dark Substack Community
Connect with Alesia:
Storygraph
This podcast was produced by Galati Media.
Proud member of the Feminist Podcasters Collective.
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