Are you ready to expand your reading horizons and discover the transformative power of sapphic literature? Join host Alesia and special guest Sarah in Wanderland as they unravel the complexities of lesbophobia, celebrate queer representation, and explore the transformative power of diverse love stories.

Sarah has dedicated their platform and voice to dismantling the shame and guilt that can often be associated with reading romance, and to promoting queer romance. After deconstructing from religious purity culture several years ago, they have been on a mission to take the taboo out of finding pleasure in self-exploration and kink, and to find the power that comes from freedom of expression and fulfilled desire.

In this episode, we're discussing:

• Understanding Lesbophobia: Learn how lesbophobia intersects with homophobia and misogyny, and why inclusive language matters
• Diverse Representation Matters: Discover why reading sapphic romances from authors of various backgrounds is crucial
• Must-Read Authors: Explore recommendations from Kaylin Baron, Jazz Hammonds, Heather Nicks, and more
• Reading Challenge: Join Sarah's 2025 Sapphic Reading Challenge and expand your literary world
• Therapeutic Power of Reading: Understand how queer literature can be a healing and transformative experience

Challenge yourself to read at least one sapphic romance book this month. Every book you read is an opportunity to understand, empathize, and celebrate the beautiful diversity of human love and experience.

CONNECT WITH SARAH:

Website

Instagram

Patreon

BOOKS/AUTHORS MENTIONED:

The Lesbrary

I Heart Sapphic

This Poison Heart by Kalynn Bayron (Amazon)

We Deserve Monuments by Jas Hammonds (Amazon)

Thirsty by Jas Hammonds (Amazon)

Seventh Star Series by Lily X (Amazon)

Heather Nix (Amazon)

Tamara Jerée (Amazon)

The Curse of the Goddess by C.C. González (Amazon)

Down South Bayou by Aricka Alexander (Amazon)

Mistakes Were Made by Meryl Wilsner (Amazon)

Delilah Green Doesn’t Care by Ashely Herring Blake (Amazon)

Sapphic Reading Challenge (StoryGraph)

The Tenth Muse Anthology (Amazon)

Running list of books mentioned (Doc)

Thank you for listening to the We Read Smut Podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag @WeReadSmut. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast.

Connect with Alesia:
Storygraph

This podcast was produced by Galati Media.
Proud member of the Feminist Podcasters Collective.

What makes a romance novel truly captivating? Join host Alesia Galati as she sits down with bestselling author Dria Andersen to explore the vibrant world of Black paranormal romance, where love, loyalty, and supernatural excitement collide.

Dria Andersen is a paranormal author and photographer who draws inspiration from stories and legends. Her passion lies in writing about Black love and exploring the diverse concept of family.

In this episode, we're discussing:

• Writing Journey: Dria began her writing career while pregnant, using self-publishing to bring her stories to life
• Representation Matters: Creating stories with predominantly Black characters that reflect her own community experience
• Unique Shifter Dynamics: Developing shifter worlds where supernatural beings integrate seamlessly into urban settings
• Trauma and Healing: Exploring found family and character growth through nuanced storytelling
• Genre Diversity: Spanning multiple paranormal genres from shifters to vampires and fantasy

Whether you're a romance enthusiast or new to paranormal fiction, Dria Andersen's books offer an immersive experience that celebrates love, community, and supernatural adventure. Dive into her world today and discover why readers can't get enough of her unique storytelling approach.

CONNECT WITH DRIA ANDERSEN:

Website

Instagram

Amazon

BOOKS/AUTHORS MENTIONED:

The Friend Contract (Amazon)

Haven (Amazon)

Devon (Amazon)

For Her Protection (Amazon)

Claiming April (Amazon)

To Her Rescue (Amazon)

A Destiny Awakened (Amazon)

Running list of books mentioned (Doc)

Thank you for listening to the We Read Smut Podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag @WeReadSmut. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast.

Connect with Alesia:
Storygraph

This podcast was produced by Galati Media.
Proud member of the Feminist Podcasters Collective.

Fatphobia and fat shaming are so deeply entrenched in society that traditionally, only a narrow set of beauty standards were represented in romance. Luckily, more and more authors, seeing how unrealistic this is, are transforming the literary landscape by writing curvy, confident, and complex characters that more closely represent their readers. In this episode of the podcast, Alesia sits down with Aimee from Curvy Girls Read Romance as they take a deep dive into body representation in romance books, specifically, celebrating authors who write real, authentic love stories with plus-sized characters.

Aimee has been a romance reader for a few years now and, in the last year, has been solely focused on plus-sized protagonists. She wanted to see more realistic body types reflected, to see herself in the stories she spent so much time reading. Now Aimee has built a small community on Instagram and surrounded herself with people looking for the same thing. Sharing book recs, trope recs, and author recs and hoping to normalize body positivity.

In this episode, we're discussing:

• Finding books with plus-sized representation, both on the cover and within the pages.
• Be cautious when using the word “curvy,” as it can often be misconstrued.
• Ways in which plus-size romances go beyond the weight of the character, giving more representation to multifaceted people.
• Representation has evolved significantly in the last 10 years, with authors being more conscientious of how they write these characters.
• Indie authors are the ones leading the charge in body-positive storytelling.

Whether you're a size 2 or 22, romance is about connection, passion, and seeing yourself reflected in stories that celebrate every curve, every stretch mark, and every beautiful, complex human experience. Today's conversation isn't just about books—it's about breaking down barriers and expanding what love looks like.

CONNECT WITH CURVY GIRLS READ ROMANCE:

Instagram

Good Reads

BOOKS/AUTHORS MENTIONED:

CC Monroe (Amazon)

Sloane Spencer (Amazon)

Sleet Kitten by S.J. Tilly (Amazon)

Kat Baxter (Amazon)

Mia Brody (Amazon)

Anna P. (Amazon)

Nicola Davidson (Amazon)

Running list of books mentioned (Doc)

Thank you for listening to the We Read Smut Podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag @WeReadSmut. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast.

Connect with Alesia:
Storygraph

This podcast was produced by Galati Media.
Proud member of the Feminist Podcasters Collective.

Romance reading is evolving, and readers are discovering wild new genres that challenge traditional storytelling. In this podcast episode, Alesia sits down with Cassie from Unfortunate Reads to explore the fascinating world of monster and sentient object romance, breaking down stereotypes and celebrating diverse reading experiences.

Cassie is a sex-positive, feminist, LGBTQIA+ ally who enjoys reading every type of smutty book - from slow burn and mafia romances to straight-up gingerbread man erotica — but what I’m known for is reading the extremely weird/off-the-wall ones (think…clippy/door/flamingo shifter/coronavirus/etc.)

In this episode, we're discussing:

• Sentient object romance isn't just about weird sexual encounters; it's a nuanced genre exploring complex themes
• Reading should be about joy, personal growth, and exploration, not just meeting societal expectations
• Monster and unconventional romance genres provide safe spaces for readers to explore sexuality and identity
• Indie authors are creating incredibly diverse and inclusive narratives within these unique romance subgenres
• Content creators like Cassie are helping readers discover books they might never have found on their own

Don't judge a book by its cover—or its unconventional premise. Expand your reading horizons, challenge your assumptions, and remember that reading is ultimately about connection, understanding, and personal enjoyment.

CONNECT WITH UNFORTUNATE READS:

Website

Instagram

BOOKS/AUTHORS MENTIONED:

Jumping the Shark by Ash Raven (Amazon)

Unhinged by Vera Valentine (Amazon)

Squeak by Vera Valentine (Amazon)

Stuffed by Sylvia Morrow (Amazon)

Handle Me by Unfortunate Reads (Amazon)

Unfortunate Reads (Amazon)

Running list of books mentioned (Doc)

Thank you for listening to the We Read Smut Podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag @WeReadSmut. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast.

Connect with Alesia:
Storygraph

This podcast was produced by Galati Media.
Proud member of the Feminist Podcasters Collective.

Are you tired of the same old book reviews and looking for a fresh, authentic perspective on reading? Join host Alesia as she sits down with Lisa, known as BabeInLibrary, for an electrifying conversation that goes beyond traditional book discussions. This episode dives deep into the world of BookTube, romance reading, and the transformative power of diverse literature.

Lisa is a proud bookish nerd that can be found at any time with a book in her face. She attributes her love of reading to Pizza Hut and the Book It program from her youth. Unfortunately the means she is always seeking a reward or a good girl after she finishes a book. As a proud library card holder since 2000 she dedicated her bookish name to that special place. You can find her on all social media platforms at babeinlibrary.

In this episode, we're discussing:

• The Evolution of Book Communities: From secret reading to open discussions about spicy romance
• Diversity in Reading: Strategies for intentionally expanding your literary horizons
• BookTube Insights: Behind-the-scenes of content creation and book reviewing
• The Importance of Representation: How diverse books can broaden our understanding of different experiences
• Romance Reading: Breaking stigmas and recognizing the depth of relationship-focused literature

Whether you're a seasoned reader or just starting your literary journey, this episode will inspire you to read more diversely, challenge your reading habits, and discover new voices in the book world. Don't just consume books—let them transform your understanding of human connections.

CONNECT WITH Lisa @ BabeInLibrary:

YouTube

Instagram

BOOKS/AUTHORS MENTIONED:

Capri's Book Island - https://www.youtube.com/@caprisbookisland/playlists

Sharonda Isadaor - https://www.youtube.com/@sharondaisadora

MoPages - https://www.youtube.com/@MoPages

My Share the Love video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O6qUh0h9YGU

Passion by Monica Walters (Amazon)

Running list of books mentioned (Doc)

Thank you for listening to the We Read Smut Podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag @WeReadSmut. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast.

Connect with Alesia:
Storygraph

This podcast was produced by Galati Media.
Proud member of the Feminist Podcasters Collective.

From grumpy sunshine to force proximity, the world of romance is filled with incredible patterns that we can't get enough of. Today, we’re talking about tropes.

In this episode, we're discussing:

• Understanding the difference between tropes and micro-tropes and how they work together to create compelling romance stories
• Exploring popular trope categories, including character tropes, relationship tropes, and plot tropes
• My top six favorite tropes, with detailed book recommendations for each

By the end of this episode, you'll have a deeper appreciation for the role of tropes in the romance genre and a list of must-read recommendations to explore these beloved narrative patterns. Dive in and discover your new favorite trope-filled romance!

BOOKS/AUTHORS MENTIONED:

She’s Grumpy Roundup (Instagram)

Been About You by A.C. Taylor (Amazon)

Naked in Your Bed by Tuesday Harper (Amazon)

Just for the Cameras by Viano Oniomoh (Amazon)

Ep 9 with Margherita Scialla

Make Room for Love by Darcy Liao (Amazon)

Back to Me by Katie Duggan (Amazon)

Chaos by Jack Whitney (Amazon)

Ep 4 with Jack Whitney

The Romantic Agenda by Claire Kann (Amazon)

Roaming Holiday by Marina Hill (Amazon)

Bossed by the Orc by Saam King (Amazon)

Dark City Omega by Elizabeth Stephens (Amazon)

Ep 8 with Elizabeth Stephens

Pride and Protest by Nikki Payne (Amazon)

Sweethand by N.G. Peltier (Amazon)

Xeni by Rebekah Weatherspoon (Amazon)

Finding My Bodyguard by A. Blossom (Amazon)

Let Me Free You by Alexandria House (Amazon)

Ep 10 with Alexandria House

Butterfly Effect by Ruby Rana (Amazon)

Ep 6 with Ruby Rana

Birding with Benefits by Sarah T. Dubb (Amazon)

Take a Hint, Dani Brown by Talia Hibbert (Amazon)

Running list of books mentioned (Doc)

Thank you for listening to the We Read Smut Podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag @WeReadSmut. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast.

Connect with Alesia:
Storygraph

This podcast was produced by Galati Media.
Proud member of the Feminist Podcasters Collective.

As a devoted fan of Alexandria House's work, I was thrilled to have the opportunity to sit down with this captivating author and delve into the stories that have captivated readers. Alexandria's ability to weave complex narratives that explore the nuances of human emotion, from the most tender connections to the darkest desires, has made her one of my favorite authors. In this fund conversation, we unpack Alexandria's unexpected journey to literary success, the driving force behind her commitment to diverse representation, and the powerful themes that permeate her expansive catalog.

A true southern girl, 3x Audies finalist Alexandria House has an affinity for a good banana pudding, Neo Soul music, and tall Black men in suits. When this music-loving fashionista is not shopping, she's writing steamy stories about real Black love. Her books have been featured on Shondaland, BookRiot, Cosmopolitan, Ebony Mag, Oprah Daily, and many other online platforms.

In this episode, we're discussing:

• Alexandria's unexpected path to becoming a successful romance author, coming from an academic family
• The importance of writing exclusively Black romance and reflecting her own upbringing in a predominantly Black community
• The depth and complexity of Alexandria's characters, often dealing with trauma and real-life issues
• Powerful representation of mental health, albinism, and adoption in the "St. Louis Sires" series
• Alexandria's foray into dark romance with the "Three Kings" series and her plans to challenge herself in new genres

Alexandria's stories serve as a testament to the transformative power of representation, reminding us that love, in all its complexities, is a universal language that deserves to be heard.

CONNECT WITH ALEXANDRIA:

Website

Instagram

Amazon

BOOKS/AUTHORS MENTIONED:

Love After (Amazon)

Them Boys (Amazon)

McClain Brothers (Amazon)

Romey University (Amazon)

St. Louis Sires (Amazon)

Three Kings (Amazon)

St. Louis Cyclones (Amazon)

The Strickland Sisters (Amazon)

Running list of books mentioned (Doc)

Thank you for listening to the We Read Smut Podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag @WeReadSmut. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast.

Connect with Alesia:
Storygraph

This podcast was produced by Galati Media.
Proud member of the Feminist Podcasters Collective.

Romance isn't just about happily ever afters - it's about exploring the full spectrum of the human experience, including sexuality and identity. In this episode, Alesia sits down with author Margherita Scialla to dive deep into the nuances of aromanticism, asexuality and how these identities are represented in literature. Through their insightful conversation, listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the complexities within the LGBTQIA+ community and the importance of diverse representation in romance and beyond.

Margherita is a Gen-Z author born and raised in Italy with a passion for stories of all kinds and a talent in procrastinating. Xe writes under the names Margherita Scialla and Robin Jo Margaret.

In this episode, we're discussing:

• Margherita's author journey and the distinction between her Margherita and Robin Joe Margaret pen names
• The importance of including diverse LGBTQIA+ identities in her writing
• Understanding the differences between aromanticism and asexuality and how they are often misunderstood
• Exploring the representation of asexual and allosexual characters in Margherita's books
• The Diverse Baseline Challenge and the importance of reading diversely

We encourage you to assess your reading habits, seek out diverse authors and continue learning about the nuanced experiences within the LGBTQIA+ community. Amplifying these voices can create a more inclusive and representative literary landscape.

CONNECT WITH MARGHERITA:

Website

Instagram

Substack

Asexuality and Aromanticism Are Not The Same (Substack Post)

The Diverse Baseline Challenge

BOOKS/AUTHORS MENTIONED:

Pillow Forts and Hurricanes (Amazon)

The Romantic Agenda (Amazon)

Role Playing (Amazon)

Books by Margherita (Amazon) | Robin (Amazon)

Running list of books mentioned (Doc)

Thank you for listening to the We Read Smut Podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag @WeReadSmut. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast.

Connect with Alesia:
Storygraph

This podcast was produced by Galati Media.
Proud member of the Feminist Podcasters Collective.