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

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.

Who says that romance is only for able-bodied or thin characters? In this episode, Northern Virginia romance author Katie Duggan joins the microphone to look at how we can take regular contemporary romance tropes and subvert them to center fat, neurodivergent, disabled, and queer representation. We discuss her journey from high school creative writing magazine editor to falling into the romance genre during lockdown, how she uses her day job at a massive chain bookstore to advocate for diverse shelf placement, and the intense process of moving past childhood religious shame to find your true identity. Katie Duggan is a New England transplant currently living in Northern Virginia. She writes romances that give fat, neurodivergent, and queer characters spicy happily-ever-afters. When Katie is not writing or being kept up at night by her characters, she can be found drinking iced chai lattes, going to therapy, convincing people to read her favorite books, and doing whatever hobbies give her brain the most dopamine at the moment. In this episode, we're discussing: How to build a romance plot around an autistic lead by addressing the sensory challenges of intimacy through an explicit sex curriculum.Why relying purely on factual research falls short when writing disabilities like Type 1 Diabetes, making sensitivity readers vital for capturing lived experiences.When navigating purity culture clouds your understanding of your sexuality, and how uncovering demisexuality in therapy helps reframe sex positivity.How to challenge the toxic expectations of bounce-back culture by writing mid-size mothers dealing realistically with postpartum depression.Why the traditional third-act breakup serves as a necessary mechanism for character growth, forcing partners to choose emotional maturity over comfort.This conversation serves as an essential reminder that true happily-ever-afters are built on the gritty reality of being believed and accepted for exactly who you are. CONNECT WITH KATIE DUGGAN: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiedugganwrites/  Linktree: https://linktr.ee/katieduggan  BOOKS/AUTHORS MENTIONED: From the Start by Katie Duggan (Amazon | Bookshop) Back to Me by Katie Duggan (Amazon | Bookshop) On My Side by Katie Duggan (Amazon | Bookshop) Beloved by Toni Morrison (Amazon | Bookshop) Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston (Amazon | Bookshop) Scribbles Bookshop Friends to Lovers  Romancelandia Amazon Kindle Unlimited 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 read across genres and love picking apart the deeper mechanics of a story, this conversation is for you. This week, I am sitting down with Alyssa, the brilliant host of the Stories & Spoilers podcast. As a self-proclaimed mood reader who hops from dark romance and monster smut to Indigenous horror and graphic novels, Alyssa brings a beautifully diverse perspective to the reading community.  We dive into how our reading tastes evolve as we grow up, the structural importance of thorough book reviews over superficial aesthetics, and how dark romance serves as a safe space to process trauma and communication.  Alyssa is the creator and host of Stories & Spoilers, a diverse podcast featuring author interviews, anonymous community confessions, and deep-dive spoiler discussions across multiple genres. She also runs Cozy Soul Reads, a personal blog dedicated to summarized, chaotic book reviews and real life updates. Alyssa uses her platform to heavily champion diverse storytelling, with a dedicated monthly segment spotlighting Black authors and book creators.  In this episode, we're discussing: How our real-world perspective shifts our views on classic teenage reads when we revisit them as adults.Why the performative nature of bookish social media has pushed out authentic book reviews in favor of hyper-edited aesthetics and consumerism.When reading diverse representation, specifically Black and queer stories, shifts from a passive hobby to a deeply healing lifestyle change.How the horror and dark romance genres overlap by using extreme situations to explore power dynamics, absolute consent, and female rage.Why we need to support independent, Black-owned brick-and-mortar and online bookstores to keep the romance community genuinely inclusive. CONNECT WITH ALYSSA: Stories & Spoilers Podcast Instagram - Stories & Spoilers | Cozy Soul Reads YouTube BOOKS/AUTHORS MENTIONED: Check out the Bookshop Links A Love Song for Ricki Wilde by Tia Williams (Amazon) One Last Stop by Casey McQuiston (Amazon) Bride by Ali Hazelwood (Amazon) A Pack for Winter by Eliana Lee (Amazon) Pen Pal by J.T. Geissinger (Amazon) Lilith & Memphis by Alexandria House (Amazon) Huntsman by Naima Simone (Amazon) Club Petal Series by Eden Emery (Amazon) Spite House by Johnny Compton (Amazon) Monday's Not Coming by Tiffany D. Jackson (Amazon) You Gotta Be You by Brandon Kyle Goodman (Amazon) The Librarian's Gargoyle by Evelyn Sola (Amazon) Never Whistle at Night - Indigenous Horror Anthology (Amazon) Fallen Too Far – Abby Glines (Amazon) The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins (Amazon) Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo (Amazon) Archer's Voice by Mia Sheridan (Amazon) All Superheroes Need PR by Elizabeth Stevens (Amazon) Welcome to the Dark Side by Giana Darling  (Amazon) Down South Bayou by Aricka Alexander (Amazon) Outdrawn by Deanna Gray (Amazon) Thunder Thighs by Evie Mitchell  (Amazon) Kimberly Lemming (Amazon) Hans by S.J. Tilly (Amazon) Jay's House Website Steamy Lit Website 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.

How much do your childhood experiences or the way you were raised dictate the choices you make as an adult? This week, I am sitting down with the incredible Regina Black, author of The Art of Scandal and her latest paperback release, August Lane. Regina has a masterful way of creating fully fleshed characters who make deeply human, interesting choices based entirely on their past structures. We discuss how growing up on daytime soap operas influenced her angsty voice, her winding path from writing online fan fiction to securing traditional publication, and the complex real-world realities she weaves into her small-town romance settings. Regina Black is a former civil litigator, current law school administrator, and life long romance reader who has always been passionate about the depiction of Black women in popular culture. She currently resides in Little Rock, Arkansas with her husband and daughter. In this episode, we're discussing: How her childhood of watching summer soap operas shaped her love for forbidden romance tropes.Why Regina chose traditional publishing because she preferred staying in her creative writing cave over running a business from scratch.When she learned how to revise a manuscript through the Pitch Wars mentorship program, which led to thirty agent requests.How she combined her Arkansas upbringing with the musical history of Helena-West Helena to construct a claustrophobic small-town setting.Why Regina intentionally writes through the heavy real-world realities of intergenerational trauma, recovery, and invisible illness. CONNECT WITH REGINA BLACK: Website Instagram Substack BOOKS/AUTHORS MENTIONED: Charish Reid (Episode | Website) Denise Williams Website The Art of Scandal by Regina Black (Amazon) August Lane by Regina Black (Amazon) The King of Scandal by Regina Black (Coming in 2027 in trade paperback!) 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.

Making new friends as an adult is notoriously difficult, and when your primary hobby is reading high-heat romance novels, it can feel even harder to find your people. As an introvert who gets overstimulated quickly, the thought of trying to build a community through endless social media scrolling can feel exhausting. In this solo season premiere, I am breaking down easy, low-pressure ways to find bookish friends who match your energy and your favorite tropes (both virtually and in real life) without relying on algorithms.  In this episode, we're discussing: Why traditional social media platforms can lead to doom scrolling rather than authentic connection, and how to pivot to dedicated spaces like Discord, Patreon, and Substack.How joining a structured buddy read helps you build deep, long-term friendships over shared chapter analysis rather than surface-level comments.Simple ways to navigate your local community, including the brilliance of Silent Book Clubs where you can read in parallel without the pressure of forced small talk.How to use indie bookstores, local author talks, library events, and even Little Free Libraries to signal your favorite tropes to nearby readers.A simple action step to reach out to one person this week and ask about their current read to break the ice.Don’t forget to follow over on Substack and join the paid community for fun perks. BOOKS/AUTHORS MENTIONED: Shelbey Monae on the Podcast (S3E6) Shelbey’s Discord Community Shamoya’s Romance Reads (Substack) Weekend Reader (Substack) 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.