Since the birth of #BookTok – TikTok’s dedicated corner for book recommendations – romance and smut novels have been, ahem, thrust into the spotlight. Currently, #SpicyBookTok has over 1.2 million posts featuring reads with every trope and theme imaginable (and ones where the plot is pure sex). And, Lovehoney Sex and Relationship expert Christine Rafe says there’s a reason you’re seeing more spicy reads on your FYP.
“TikTok has created a space where readers can share their love for romance novels in a very visual and engaging way,” explains Rafe.
“The platform’s algorithm connects like-minded individuals, and while it’s difficult for explicit pleasure-positive education to go viral because of community guidelines, smutty books are both popular and not too spicy for TikTok.”
Rafe credits the platform’s interactive nature for making it easier for readers to find and enjoy spicy books.
Combine this with the fact that sales of romantic fiction were up 37 per cent last year and it’s clear pleasure-positive content is on the rise. Here’s why we love spicy reads and the best ones to add to your e-reader/bookshelf/phone.
How does reading smut benefit our sex lives?
Rafe notes – and many #SpicyBookTok girlies (and guys) will tell you – romantic reads can act as a desire enhancer.
“With more people describing low desire or a lack of interest in sex as an issue within their relationships, smutty stories can foster interest for those with a more responsive desire and create sexually relevant stimuli within their environment,” Rafe says.
“Even if it is reading or listening to smut while walking, doing the shopping, or on the commute home, this can act as ‘foreplay’ to solo or partnered sexual intimacy at a later stage.”
As Rafe explains, the more we foster the sensual aspects in our lives, the more it can encourage sexual intimacy. Yet, as many erotic books feature taboo themes and power imbalances, it may not be an arousing genre for everyone.
“Most smutty stories are written specifically to explore themes associated with people’s deepest, darkest fantasies,” Rafe says. “So there can be problematic behaviours portrayed as ‘normal.”
Consequently, Rafe recommends approaching smut with curiosity rather than using it as a basis for healthy sexual dynamics and relationships.
Can reading romance desensitise us from the real thing?
While Reddit threads and conservative commentators tout that reading romance will ruin your relationship, this is a common misconception.
“In reality, erotic novels can enrich our sex lives by stimulating our imaginations and helping us to explore our fantasies and understand more about what turns us on,” Rafe explains. “Far from desensitising us, they can actually heighten our arousal and interest in sex by providing new ideas and scenarios to explore.”
As a bonus, smut can also provide a confidence boost when it comes to expressing desires.
How to overcome shame around reading smut
“Shame around reading erotic literature often stems from societal taboos and misconceptions about sex and sexuality,” Rafe says. “It’s important to remember that enjoying smut is a natural and healthy part of exploring one’s sexuality.”
If shame is a barrier to reading romance novels, Rafe recommends creating a cosy and private reading nook. “Over time, sharing your interest with trusted friends or partners can also help normalise the experience,” she says. “Erotic literature is a tool for personal enjoyment and growth, and there’s no need to feel ashamed about seeking pleasure and connection through it.”
The best #SpicyBookTok novels in 2024
Lovehoney Sex and Relationship expert Christine Rafe’s top steamy books to delve into this year:
It Happened One Summer by Tessa Bailey
$22.99, at Dymocks
Tessa Bailey’s It Happened One Summer is perfect for those new to the romance genre. And, Rafe labels it as a “hilarious yet steamy read”.
You Had Me at Hola by Alexis Daria
$29.99 at Dymocks
Daria’s You Had Me at Hola is for readers who prefer fast-paced romance. Following two Latinx soap opera stars who take their on-screen passion off-camera, this is one drama-filled rom-com.
A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas
$16.99 at QBD
Thanks to #SpicyBookTok this fantasy romance book has gone viral among readers. “While it’s not full-blown smut, there’s enough sexual anticipation and passion for it to be considered whimsical faerie porn,” Rafe says.
Priest by Sierra Simone
$27.99 at QBD
“The Priest is a provocative romance between a priest and a woman that challenges both their beliefs and desires,” Rafe says. Fleabag fans will agree there’s nothing steamier than a romance between a woman and a priest, so this has our attention!
The Kiss Quotient by Helen Hoang
$27.99 at Dymocks
“The Kiss Quotient by Helen Hoang combines romance with steamy scenes,” says Rafe. Making it another great entry-level read.
Related stories
Native ad body.
Native ad body.
Native ad body.
