Advertise on podcast: We Read Smut: Bookish Conversations for Romance Readers

Why should speculative fiction and monster romance rely on tired, reductive stereotypes when whole universes exist to be imagined? Today, for a special Birthday Bash release, I sit down with speculative romance author Nikki Clarke to discuss world-building, language, and centering Black leads across sci-fi, paranormal, and fantasy romance. We break down the importance of writing Black-coded aliens who reflect full, nuanced lived experiences rather than lazy historical trauma tropes. Nikki shares how her background in anthropological linguistics shapes the communication barriers and cultural world-building in her Lyca series. We also address the recent resurgence of purity culture in romance spaces, why unapologetic open-door scenes centered on female pleasure matter, and what readers can expect from her dark urban romantasy release, A Fairy Blue Moon. Guest Bio Nikki Clarke is an author of speculative romance spanning sci-fi, paranormal romance, and urban romantasy. With roots in poetry and a background in anthropological linguistics, she crafts expansive alien and fantasy worlds featuring unapologetic spice, complex cultural dynamics, and deeply centered Black leads. She is the author of the Lyca series, the Threshers series, and the upcoming dark urban romantasy duology A Fairy Blue Moon. In this episode, we discuss: Nikki’s path from poetry to speculative romance and how language flexibility fuels her world-building.Subverting colonial tropes in monster romance: writing Black-coded aliens with depth, culture, and full lived humanity.Why Black women deserve softness, joy, and unrestrained passion in speculative fiction instead of endless struggle stories.How an anthropological linguistics background informs alien dialogue, literal communication, and points of genuine culture shock.Developing characters from culture first rather than reverse-engineering artificial opposites.Pushing back against rising purity culture, closed-door trends, and the normalization of female pleasure on the page.Reclaiming the term urban: setting fantasy in contemporary South Side Chicago with elves in fitted caps.A preview of A Fairy Blue Moon: dark romantasy, Why Choose dynamics, and expansive storytelling.CONNECT WITH NIKKI: Website: nikkiclarckeromance.com Social Media (Instagram, TikTok, Threads): @nikkiclarkeromancePatreon: Nikki Clarke RomanceBOOKS & AUTHORS MENTIONED: The Lyca Series by Nikki ClarkeThe Threshers Series by Nikki ClarkeA Fairy Blue Moon by Nikki ClarkeThe Dreamer and the Space Warrior by T.K. TuckerJoin 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.

Why are we still measuring the value and desirability of women against the benchmark of youth? Today, I am joined by celebrated author and writing coach Cathy Yardley to pull back the curtain on more than twenty-five years of navigating the publishing landscape. We trace her career from selling category romance to Harlequin in 1999 to publishing award-winning standalones with Montlake, including her hit midlife romance Role Playing. Cathy opens up about her late-in-life ADHD and bipolar II diagnoses, the drop in estrogen that strips away masking in perimenopause, and how neurodiversity shapes both her daily creative guardrails and her complex, relatable characters. Plus, we dig into the beauty of he-fell-first handymen, the deep grounding power of female friendships, and her upcoming romance centered around midlife K-pop fandom. Cathy Yardley is an award-winning author of romance, chick lit, and urban fantasy, who has sold over 1.2 million copies of books for publishers like St. Martin's, Avon, and Harlequin. She writes fun, geeky, and diverse characters who believe that underdogs can make good and that sometimes being a little wrong is just right. She likes writing about quirky, crazy adventures, because she's had plenty of her own: she had her own army in the Society of Creative Anachronism; she spent a New Year's on a three-day solitary vision quest in the Mojave Desert; she had VIP access to the Viper Room in Los Angeles. Now, she spends her time writing in the wilds of Eastern Washington, trying to prevent her son from learning the truth of any of said adventures, and riding herd on her two dogs (and one husband.) In this episode, we're discussing: Signing with Harlequin in 1999 and the grind of pre-digital category publishing.Pushing past industry limitations to write authentic Asian leads and characters over forty.Navigating late-stage ADHD and bipolar II diagnoses and ending the cycle of creative burnout.Setting intentional boundaries around writing income to preserve joy and creative freedom.Rejecting the makeover trope: black cat heroines and golden retriever heroes in Role Playing.Exploring grief, type 1 diabetes, and modern caregiving dynamics in Do Me a Favor.Community, finding purpose, and the K-pop divorce trend inspiring You Can't Be Serious.Looking back at fan-favorite backlist titles across the Ponto Beach series. CONNECT WITH CATHY YARDLEY: Website Instagram BOOKS/AUTHORS MENTIONED: Role Playing by Cathy Yardley Do Me a Favor by Cathy Yardley You Can’t Be Serious by Cathy Yardley Love, Comment, Subscribe by Cathy Yardley Gouda Friends by Cathy Yardley Ex Appeal by Cathy Yardley How to Keep House While Drowning by KC Davis Stay Sexy & Don’t Get Murdered by Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark 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.

What happens when you look at live professional wrestling, see the electric tension between two fierce athletes in the ring, and wonder: what if they kissed? Today, I am joined by romance author Tamara Lemus to discuss her path into indie publishing and the creation of her Wrestling With Love series. We break down the inspiration behind her breakout sapphic sports romance, From the Top Rope, which was sparked while attending WWE Backlash in Puerto Rico. Tamara shares what it takes to write authentic Latinx representation across fantasy and sports romance, exploring nuanced bi awakenings, balancing legacy privilege against hard-earned ambition, and what readers can expect from the next installment in the ring, Behind the Ropes. Tamara Lemus started writing at a young age when her mother gifted her journals. Later, she branched out onto the online writing scene by writing Harry Styles fan fiction on Tumblr. Her love of reading started when a little book titled Twilight entered the world. As she grew up, life got in the way, and reading went to the back burner until she picked up a fantasy book that sparked her love of reading back to life. Tamara enjoys reading fantasy, romance, and thriller books. In her spare time, she loves traveling, trying new foods, and spending time with her family and fur baby, Xena In this episode, we're discussing: Tamara’s early start writing fan fiction on Tumblr and finding inspiration in romance books.Creating Hispanic and Latinx representation in fantasy romance with Runaway Fae.The real-life moment at WWE Backlash in Puerto Rico that inspired From the Top Rope.The nuance of writing sapphic romance, challenging lesbophobia in reader spaces, and honoring emotional intimacy.Raven and Amaya’s dynamic: legacy privilege, self-made hustle, and navigating a realistic bisexual awakening.Shifting gears into friends-to-lovers and fake dating with Behind the Ropes.Navigating creative momentum and reading slumps during pregnancy.An early look at book three: second-chance romance, marriage of convenience, and mental health representation. CONNECT WITH TAMARA LEMUS: Instagram BOOKS/AUTHORS MENTIONED: From the Top Rope by Tamara Lemus (Amazon) Behind the Ropes by Tamara Lemus Runaway Fae by Tamara Lemus (Amazon) Jack Whitney Hailey Dickert Alex's Bookstore The New Romantics Scribbles Bookshop 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.

Enemies to lovers is easily one of the most beloved tropes in romance, but the tag gets slapped on everything from gentle workplace competition to full-blown murderous vendettas. Today, I sit down with fellow reader and creator Chalon from Bookmarked by Chalon to break down the entire spectrum of enemies to lovers. We define the boundaries between mild rivals to lovers, enemies to lovers light, and true enemies with deadly intent. Then, we trade our favorite book recommendations across subgenres, including fantasy, mafia, sapphic sports, monster romance, god retellings, and historical romance. Chalon is the book reviewer, content creator, and host behind Bookmarked by Chalon. After stepping away from pleasure reading while working as a teacher, she returned to fiction with a passion for romance, character-driven storytelling, and high-angst tropes. She shares book recommendations, author discussions, and reviews across social media.  In this episode, we're discussing: Chalon’s transition back to pleasure reading after leaving instructional education.Defining the spectrum: rivals to lovers vs. enemies to lovers light vs. true murderous enemies.Why forced proximity, fated mates, and marriages of convenience push enemies together.One-sided hatred, petty grudges, and the beauty of deeply unhinged female leads.The pacing of road trips and cross-country journeys in building authentic romance payoff.The rich subplots and layered world-building found within urban romance and fiction.Why audiobooks enhance tension and high-stakes banter across diverse subgenres.CONNECT WITH CHALON: YouTube Instagram Episodes Mentioned:  Alexandria House S1 Ep10 (Podcast | YouTube) Naima Simone S2 Ep4 (Podcast | YouTube) Regina Black S4 Ep 2 (Podcast | YouTube) BOOKS/AUTHORS MENTIONED: Urban Romance Recs from @Tofu.TBR (Part 1 | Part 2) House of Agnes by Fiona Zedde (Amazon | Bookshop) His Vicious Siren by Anaïs Isaac (Amazon | Bookshop) Destiny’s Captive by Beverly Jenkins (Amazon | Bookshop) Shadowland Omega by Elizabeth Stephens (Amazon | Bookshop) Your Coffin or Mine by Jacklyn Hyde (Amazon | Bookshop) Hostile Takeover by Christina C. Jones (Amazon) Cocky by Taahesi B. Williams (Amazon) Memphis and Lilith by Alexandria House (Amazon | Bookshop) Pride and Protest by Nikki Payne (Amazon | Bookshop) Enemies to Lovers by Alisha Rai (Amazon | Bookshop) Debt by Nina G. Jones (Amazon | Bookshop) The Love Audit by Lucy Eden (Amazon | Bookshop) From the Top Rope by Tamara Lemus (Amazon | Bookshop) Outdrawn by Deanna Gray (Amazon | Bookshop) Our Vicious Oaths by N.E. Davenport (Amazon | Bookshop) Lore Olympus by Rachel Smythe (Amazon | Bookshop) Bound to the Battle God by Ruby Dixon (Amazon | Bookshop) Demon’s Dream by Elle Kayson (Amazon | Bookshop) August Lane by Regina Black (Amazon | Bookshop) Strung Together by Kasha Thompson (Amazon | Bookshop) Huntsman by Naima Simone (Amazon | Bookshop) Katee Robert (Amazon | Bookshop) 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.

With vampire romance surging in popularity, how do you take a classic paranormal creature and flip the rulebook completely on its head? Today, I am joined by North Carolina romance author and event host Melissa Simone to break down her unique paranormal universe. We discuss her novel The Vampire Reversal, where a 400-year-old vampire actively seeks a way out of immortality through genuine, uncompelled human connection. We also get into her writing journey from early poetry to indie romance, how her entire family became her ride-or-die promotional entourage at book events, and what it really takes to build inclusive, author-focused book conventions like Temptation in the Triangle and Write Me Romance and Fantasy Book Con. Melissa Simone has always enjoyed reading and writing since childhood. Her passion for books and happy endings inspired her to write and publish her own love stories with smut and happy endings as a requirement. Aside from being an independent author, she is a wife, a mother of 4, a US Army Veteran, and a Nurse. Melissa identifies as free-spirit with a hippie heart, and a butterfly soul.  In this episode, we're discussing: Melissa’s early start writing poetry and childhood stories before diving into romance novels.How Amanda Hocking’s self-publishing path inspired her to launch her work through Kindle Direct Publishing.Balancing family, nursing, and creative writing through mental compartmentalization.Telling her family she writes explicit romance and having them become her ultimate hype squad at signings.Flipping the vampire script in The Vampire Reversal: sunlight tolerance, lack of weaknesses, and the pursuit of a human mortality elixir.What readers can expect from book two in the Vampire Reversal series.The behind-the-scenes realities of co-hosting Temptation in the Triangle in Cary, North Carolina.Creating Write Me Romance and Fantasy Book Con in Fayetteville to honor her late sister, Jasmine.Practical advice for planning author events, from cash flow and Square to reader accessibility and vendor hospitality. CONNECT WITH MELISSA SIMONE: Instagram Event Website BOOKS/AUTHORS MENTIONED: The Vampire Reversal by Melissa Simone Significance of Love, Sacrifices, and Secrets by Melissa Simone Letters, Quotes, and Poetry, Et cetera by Melissa Simone 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.

With over a decade in the publishing industry, romance author and literary agent Sade Rena has navigated nearly every corner of the business. Today, I sit down with Sade to discuss the reality of author burnout after publishing 20 books in three years, the collaborative mechanics of co-authoring with close friends, and the transition from indie control to landing a traditional two-book deal with Forever.  We also explore how writing helps process personal grief, the evolving boundaries authors must set against modern parasocial behavior, and her new adult hockey romance, On Thin Ice.  S. Rena (Sade Rena) is a contemporary, dark romance, and sports romance author who has been writing stories since childhood. In addition to her extensive indie backlist and multiple co-written series, she is a literary agent at Beck Literary, where she advocates for marginalized authors across the industry. Her traditional debut, On Thin Ice, is out now.  In this episode, we're discussing: Sade’s early start writing at 16, self-funding copyright registrations, and learning through early urban fiction.Using fiction to navigate profound personal grief and the emotional release of writing Last Chance Cowboy.The logistics and alternating-POV systems of co-authoring series with close author friends.Confronting severe industry burnout, the pressure of rapid-release schedules, and taking time away to recover creative drive.Transitioning to a traditional publishing deal with Forever and the realities of author income.Demystifying dark romance labels, consensual power dynamics, and the intricate mystery subplot in On Thin Ice.Establishing healthy boundaries in response to parasocial reader behavior.What writers need to know about querying agents and seeking representation at Beck Literary. CONNECT WITH SADE: Social Media (Instagram, TikTok, Threads): @saderenawritesLiterary Agency & Query Submissions: beckliterary.com BOOKS/AUTHORS MENTIONED: On Thin Ice by Sade Rena Last Chance Cowboy by Sade Rena Hazard by Sade Rena B.L. Mute M.L. Preston J.L. Beck Zane Rina Kent Elizabeth Stephens 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.

Connecting with long-time romance readers brings such a deep understanding of genre conventions to the podcast. This week, I am sitting down with Jessica P. Pryde to discuss her transition from public librarian and Book Riot editor to founder of the Why Choose Pop-Up Romance Bookstore. We talk about the importance of curating shelves filled with systemically excluded voices, how to combat the algorithm by reading intentionally, and why romance tropes are conventions rather than copies of other books. Plus, we share a massive stack of character-forward recommendations, including urban romance doorstoppers and nerdy meta-fiction.  Jessica Pryde is a professional book person and Blerd currently living in Southern Arizona. A librarian for over 15 years, she has been pushing progressive romance onto unsuspecting readers for half of her life. She is a Contributing Editor at Book Riot, where she writes mostly about romance and libraries, and hosted the When In Romance podcast for nearly eight years (RIP). She is the editor of the essay anthology BLACK LOVE MATTERS: REAL TALK ON ROMANCE, BEING SEEN, AND HAPPILY EVER AFTERS and has written for Audible, Kobo, the Harlequin Ever After blog, and other places. She is the owner and Founder of Why Choose, a pop-up romance bookstore centering the work of historically and systemically excluded and marginalized creators. Read more at jessicapryde.com  In this episode, we're discussing: Transitioning from 15 years in public libraries to running an independent pop-up romance bookshop.Why romance readers rely on specific story conventions and why hitting trope beats is the entire point of the genre.How to intentionally diversify your reading habits when the algorithm keeps feeding you the exact same mainstream books.The mission behind Why Choose Bookstore and hand-selling diverse romance to new audiences in Tucson.A curated reading list featuring enemies-to-lovers urban romance, meta werewolf fiction, and campus mental health representation. CONNECT WITH JESSICA P PRYDE: Website Bookstore Instagram Personal Instagram Personal Website BOOKS/AUTHORS MENTIONED: Demon's Dream by Elle Kayson (Amazon | Bookshop) Fan Service by Rosie Danan (Amazon | Bookshop) Score by Kennedy Ryan (Amazon | Bookshop) Big Trouble In a Little Mafia by Tanvier Peart  (Amazon | Bookshop) Please Don't Go by E. Salvador (Amazon | Bookshop) Legend by Jude Deveraux (Amazon | Bookshop) Beverly Jenkins (Amazon | Bookshop) Cat Sebastian (Amazon | Bookshop) Katee Robert (Amazon | Bookshop) Chencia C. Higgins (Amazon | Bookshop) J.L. Seegars (Amazon | Bookshop) 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.

What does it take to direct a play, write television sitcom specs, and transition into creating vibrant Black rom-com universes? Today, I am sitting down with Los Angeles-based romance author Monique Fisher to discuss her artistic journey, her theater and playwriting roots, and why she is never precious about scrapping full manuscripts when the story isn’t hitting the mark. We get into the craft lessons of sitcom writing, why the most memorable meet-cutes embrace the cringe, and how she deliberately subverts classic romance tropes—from soft doms to female-led power dynamics in male-dominated spaces. Plus, Monique breaks down her Decadence series, the Richardson Sibling trilogy, and her epic, 15-year love story Where There Is Smoke, There Is Fire! Monique Fisher is a Los Angeles-based author of contemporary Black romance and romantic comedy. With a background in theater directing, playwriting, graphic novels, and television writing, she brings sharp comic timing, vibrant community dynamics, and authentic Black love to the page. She is the author of Where There Is Smoke, There Is Fire, the Richardson Sibling trilogy, and the Decadence series.  In this episode, we're discussing: Transferable skills from theater directing and playwriting to independent author project management.Learning to be unattached to words and tossing entire manuscripts to protect the story.The sitcom writing boot camp rules for comedic pacing and embracing embarrassing meet-cutes.The importance of candid beta readers and sensitivity readers when crafting complex casts.Subverting power dynamics, BDSM roles, and gender expectations in Make Room for Heather.A complete breakdown of the Richardson Sibling trilogy (Hot for Teacher, Spend My Life with You, An Appeal for Your Love). CONNECT WITH MONIQUE FISHER: Website Instagram TikTok BOOKS/AUTHORS MENTIONED: Where There Is Smoke, There Is Fire by Monique Fisher (Amazon | Bookshop) She a Baddie by Monique Fisher (Amazon | Bookshop) Make Room for Heather by Monique Fisher (Amazon | Bookshop) Hot for Teacher by Monique Fisher (Amazon | Bookshop) Spend My Life with You by Monique Fisher (Amazon) An Appeal for Your Love by Monique Fisher (Amazon) Tell Me I'm Not Dreaming by Monique Fisher (Amazon | Bookshop) Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry by Mildred D. Taylor (Amazon | Bookshop) Waiting to Exhale by Terry McMillan (Amazon | Bookshop) Eric Jerome Dickey (Amazon | Bookshop) Bebe Moore Campbell (Amazon | Bookshop) Beverly Jenkins (Amazon | Bookshop) Brenda Jackson (Amazon | Bookshop) Frances Ray (Amazon | Bookshop) Zane (Amazon | Bookshop) Meka James (Amazon | Bookshop) 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.

Today on the podcast, we have a very special treat: our first man on the show, and someone who writes deeply authentic, Black queer M/M romance! I am sitting down with author and higher education administrator Frederick Smith to discuss his seven-novel journey, writing queer love stories set across California, and navigating a full-time university career alongside a prolific writing schedule. We dive into the importance of own voices in the M/M romance space, paying homage to trailblazers like E. Lynn Harris, the three non-negotiable rules for an ethical second-chance romance, and why authors and readers alike must show up in spaces where Black and queer voices need greater visibility. Plus, Frederick shares the real-life inspiration behind One and Done and teases his upcoming 2027 mismatched age-gap romance! Originally from Detroit, Frederick Smith is the author of seven romance novels set in L.A. and San Francisco that feature Black LGBTQIA+ characters. His 2024 novel, One and Done, is described as a Black, Queer, Higher Ed, Bay Area romance. It was published on Bold Strokes Books. His forthcoming novel, Love Is A Contact Sport, is a Black, Queer, Second Chance, College Reunion, MM romance out June 2026 on Bold Strokes Books. A higher education professional by day, Frederick does Student Affairs and Diversity & Inclusion work at San Francisco State University.  In this episode, we're discussing: Balancing a full-time university administration role in student life and DEI with writing full-time M/M romance.How a UCLA extension writing class launched a two-book deal with Kensington and a 20-year publishing career.Honoring the legacy of E. Lynn Harris and the vital importance of own voices storytelling in gay romance.The three essential elements needed to make a second-chance romance work without toxicity.The hilarious, real-life university accreditation meeting that inspired the workplace romance One and Done.Practical ways emerging authors can build community locally through independent bookstores and public libraries. CONNECT WITH FREDERICK SMITH: Website Instagram BOOKS/AUTHORS MENTIONED: Love is a Contact Sport by Frederick Smith (Amazon | Bookshop) One and Done by Frederick Smith (Amazon | Bookshop) Play it Forward by Frederick Smith (Amazon | Bookshop) Right Side of the Wrong Bed by Frederick Smith (Amazon) E. Lynn Harris (Amazon | Bookshop) Terry McMillan (Amazon | Bookshop) Eric Jerome Dickey (Amazon | Bookshop) Beverly Jenkins (Amazon | Bookshop) Kennedy Ryan (Amazon | Bookshop) Rebekah Weatherspoon (Amazon | Bookshop) Adib Khorram (Amazon | Bookshop) On Thin Ice by S Rena (Amazon) Monique Fisher (Amazon) Karmen Lee (Amazon) Meka James (Amazon | Bookshop) Julian Winters (Amazon | Bookshop) Rashid Darden  (Amazon | Bookshop) 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.

There is something so delicious about the "he falls first" romance trope. This week, I am sitting down with my friend Aimee from Curvy Girls Read Romance for a trope deep dive into down-bad heroes, pining, and why this trope shines so brightly in plus-size romance. We discuss body neutrality vs. body positivity in bookish spaces, moving past 2000s media toxicity, and why we will never get tired of heroes who fall fast and hard for their women. Plus, we share a massive stack of recommendations spanning contemporary, historical, sports, and monster romance. Aimee is a trained historian and the creator behind Curvy Girls Read Romance on Instagram and StoryGraph. She highlights plus-size representation across romance genres, including contemporary, historical, dark, and monster romance, with a focus on bringing body neutrality to the bookish community.  In this episode, we're discussing: The shift toward body neutrality in romance and pushing back against toxic beauty standards.Why the "he falls first" trope works so well alongside friends-to-lovers, wife guys, and pining heroes.Why down-bad heroes hit differently in plus-size romance by turning old media tropes on their heads.How body neutrality in books creates validating, real-world relationship representation.A curated reading list of top "he falls first" book recommendations across multiple romance subgenres. CONNECT WITH CURVY GIRLS READ ROMANCE: Instagram BOOKS/AUTHORS MENTIONED: Goal by Alexandria House (Amazon | Bookshop) Let Me Love You by Alexandria House (Amazon | Bookshop) Lilith by Alexandria House (Amazon | Bookshop) A Tropical Rebel Gets the Duke by Adriana Herrera (Amazon | Bookshop) Only for the Week by Natasha Bishop (Amazon | Bookshop) The Catch (Seattle Strikes series) by Leonor Solis (Amazon | Bookshop) The Game (Seattle Strikes series) by Leonor Solis (Amazon | Bookshop) Not Safe for Work by Nisha J. Tuli (Amazon | Bookshop) Almost Maybes by Anna P. (Amazon | Bookshop) Taken to Voraxia by Elizabeth Stevens (Amazon | Bookshop) Pursued by the Orc by Saam King (Amazon | Bookshop) Center of Attention by Daisy Wren (Amazon) First Comes Amor by Cynthia A. Rodriguez (Amazon) You Hide, I'll Seek by M.L. Bash (Amazon) Who You Belong To by M.L. Bash (Amazon | Bookshop) For the Plot by Emily B. Rose (Amazon | Bookshop) Just Joshing by Evie Mitchell (Amazon | Bookshop) Cocky by Taahesi B. Williams (Amazon) Tasty by Taahesi B. Williams (Amazon) Big Trouble in a Little Mafia by Tanvier Peart (Amazon | Bookshop) Danger Family Series by Endiya Carter (Amazon) Luv Shuv in New York by N.M. Patel (Amazon | Bookshop) 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.

What happens when a Hollywood screenwriter and director steps out of the writer's room to write her very first fiction novel? Today, I am sitting down with screenwriter, director, and author Laura Chinn to talk about her debut novel, Counting the Days. We get into what it's really like transitioning from TV sitcom writer's rooms to solo novel writing, pre-midlife anxiety surrounding fertility and reproductive timelines, healing inner child trauma, and why she deliberately writes female friendships centered on genuine sisterhood rather than pettiness. Plus, Laura breaks down her screenwriting perspective on what actually makes a book adapt well to the screen!  Laura Chinn wrote and directed the Searchlight feature film Suncoast, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival and won a jury prize. She created and starred in the half-hour comedy series Florida Girls and wrote the memoir Acne (Hachette) and the novel Counting the Days (Penguin Random House). Her other television writing and producing credits include High Potential, The Mick, and Childrens Hospital. In this episode, we're discussing: The realities of Hollywood writer's rooms versus the mental health perks of solo novel writing.Navigating 30s reproductive timelines, fertility panic, and the complex choices around motherhood.Writing an emotionally evolved male lead who works through his own childhood baggage.Why we need more stories featuring supportive adult sisterhood and women who actively champion each other.What a screenwriter looks for when evaluating whether a book can successfully translate to film or TV. CONNECT WITH LAURA CHINN: Instagram Counting the Days by Laura Chinn (Amazon | Bookshop) Suncoast (Film directed by Laura Chinn) BOOKS/AUTHORS MENTIONED: Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver (Amazon | Bookshop) The Dutch House by Ann Patchett (Amazon | Bookshop) 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.

If you've been listening to this podcast for any length of time, you know how much I love showcasing queer authors, queer stories, and sapphic romance. Today, we get a special bonus as I sit down with Sam Saldivar (Samantha Saldivar), a queer Latina author who writes high-stakes sapphic sports romance. We dive into the nitty-gritty of traditional publishing, navigating a surprise four-manuscript backlog, pitching authentic Latina representation in sports, and building long-arc, second-chance romances.  USA Today bestselling author Samantha Saldivar is a corporate broadcast producer who has previously worked at the NBC affiliates KGW in Portland and KMTR in Eugene, where she won a regional Emmy award for Best Evening Newscast. During her time studying at the University of Oregon’s School of Journalism and Communication, she reported on college sports for campus television and interned at the now-defunct Comcast Sportsnet Northwest. She lives in Portland with her wife. Her debut novel, Play You For It, was a national bestseller.  In this episode, we're discussing: How writing purely for the love of the story led to a surprise four-manuscript backlog and a two-book deal with Dell.The structural differences between self-publishing hustle and leaning into traditional publishing infrastructure.Grounding Latina representation in the authentic history and culture of sports—from D1 college basketball to softball.Why second-chance romance requires deep character growth over time for the reconciliation to actually feel earned.Teasers for Play You For It, Running Home To You, and her 2027 soccer romance, Giving Up The Game. CONNECT WITH SAMANTHA SALDIVAR: Website Instagram Substack BOOKS/AUTHORS MENTIONED: Play You For It by Samantha Saldivar (Amazon | Bookshop) Running Home To You by Samantha Saldivar (Amazon | Bookshop) Giving Up The Game (Coming March 2027) by Samantha Saldivar (Amazon | Bookshop) Delilah Green Doesn’t Care by Ashley Herring Blake (Amazon | Bookshop) Anita Kelly (Amazon | Bookshop) 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.

Trend readership is a fascinating topic, especially when readers enter a new genre without understanding the underlying character arcs or structural conventions. This week, I am sitting down with multi-genre indie author Aya Winter to break down what happens when hype-driven reading trends take over the fantasy and romantasy spaces. We dive into the hero’s journey, why readers confuse long-standing genre conventions with plagiarism, the creative autonomy of indie publishing, and why we need to retire the pretty-ugly, inexperienced heroine trope once and for all.  Aya Winter is a romance novelist, illustrator, and publishing professional with over 20 years of storytelling experience across fiction, poetry, visual art, and music-inspired narratives. She has also spent nearly a decade in children’s book publishing, working from manuscript to print as an illustrator, designer, creative lead, and publishing manager. Her background in communications, branding, and digital media informs a strategic, design-forward approach to her stories and author platform. Known for character-driven narratives with emotional depth, cinematic pacing, longing, and found family in high-stakes worlds, Aya authored the Hartgrave Tellers rockstar romance series. Her debut novel, Through the Glory and the Mess, was released in July 2025. Writing at the intersection of art and story, she views romance as a messy, meaningful craft and calling rooted in emotional truth. In this episode, we're discussing: How fear and early industry rejections stall creative output until life-altering events force a mindset shift toward publishing.Why hype-driven trend readership creates reader expectations that clash with standard fantasy conventions and story arcs.When the hero's journey gets mistaken for copycatting, and why formulaic character growth is essential for meaningful story payoffs.How the financial motivations of traditional publishing limit story variety compared to the creative freedom of indie authors.Why writing confident, experienced women who own their beauty and power makes for far better heroines than tired, self-deprecating tropes. CONNECT WITH AYA WINTER: Website Instagram Amazon BOOKS/AUTHORS MENTIONED: Naima Simone Episode on the Podcast Ember by Naima Simone  (Amazon | Bookshop) Huntsman by Naima Simone (Amazon | Bookshop) Behind Closed Doors by Shain Rose (Amazon | Bookshop) Lilac by B.B. Reid (Amazon | Bookshop) Crucible by B.B. Reid (Amazon | Bookshop) Kelley Armstrong (Amazon) Zoey Draven (Amazon) Alpha Breeds by Milana Jacks (Amazon) Fae-ted Kings by Milana Jacks (Amazon) A Hero with a Thousand Faces by Joseph Campbell (Amazon | Bookshop) https://youtu.be/W68Iqk8Kz4g 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.

Let's talk about the absolute chaos demon that these librarians' love lives are. This week, I am sitting down with Gabriella Gamez to talk all about her Librarians in Love series. We dive into her books The Next Best Fling, Kiss Me Maybe, and her brand-new release, Second First Dates. Gabby shares her journey navigating traditional publishing, the intentional choices behind writing ace, graysexual, and demisexual characters, and how romance novels allow us to unpack deeply complex family dynamics like machismo, parental favoritism, and the beauty of found family.  Gabriella Gamez is a Mexican American author from South Texas. She writes about incredibly messy, well-meaning women trying their best and accidentally falling in love. When she’s not writing, she can be found drinking copious amounts of coffee, wasting too much time playing video games, and obsessing over other people’s books. In this episode, we're discussing: How working in a physical library environment during a global shutdown sparked the initial concepts and characters for her debut novel.Why the financial freedom and structural boundaries of traditional publishing appealed to her over the total control of the indie author route.When visibility on the asexual spectrum shifts from a missing media trope to a deeply personal reclamation of graysexual and demisexual identities on the page.How centering two Latinx leads opens up a vital space to challenge intergenerational trauma, parental favoritism, and heteronormative expectations within families.Why writing an unlikable heroine provides a realistic look at how childhood wounds and family dynamics shape the protective cycles of adulthood. CONNECT WITH GABRIELLA GAMEZ: Website Instagram BOOKS/AUTHORS MENTIONED: The Next Best Fling by Gabriella Gamez (Amazon | Bookshop) Kiss Me Maybe by Gabriella Gamez (Amazon | Bookshop) Second First Dates by Gabriella Gamez (Amazon | Bookshop) Adrienne Thurman Episode Margherita Scialla Episode 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.

What started as a simple vision to mobilize the bookish community has turned into an entire movement aiming to pull one million people together to read books by Black authors. In this special bonus episode, I am sitting down with Crystal, the founder and force behind Melanated Reader Forte. We dive into her One Million Black Books initiative, what it actually means to live in a post-literate society, how fast-forwarding through content is shortening our attention spans, and practical ways we can demand reprints of out-of-print Black literature while supporting indie authors. Crystal (Melanated Reader) Forte is a 19-year educator, PhD candidate, book influencer, and community organizer. Across social media and in-person community spaces, she builds inclusive literacy initiatives that bring readers of all ages together around Black literature—from children's books to banned classics and open-door romance. In this episode, we're discussing: The core mission behind the One Million Black Books summer movement and how families can participate together across age groups.What living in a post-literate society means for short-form content consumption and our daily attention spans.Why building a sustained 35-minute daily reading habit improves critical literacy and standardized testing stamina for students.Practical ways readers can ask publishers hard questions about backlogs and demand reprints of out-of-print Black literature.How to support indie Black authors through platforms like Kindle Unlimited without breaking local budgets.CONNECT WITH CRYSTAL: Etsy ShopInstagram Melanated ReaderInstagram 1 Million Black BooksThreadsSubstackWebsiteBOOKS/AUTHORS MENTIONED: Antoinette Sherelle  Wild Women Don't Wear No Blues: Black Women Writers on Love, Men, and Sex is a nonfiction collection edited by author Marita Golden  Zora Neale Hurston  J. California Cooper  K.C. Mills (They Call Him Nas)  Christina C. Jones  Alexandria House  Kennedy Ryan 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.