Afleveringen
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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 âcurvy,â 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 booksâit'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. Donât 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 â but what Iâm known for is reading the extremely weird/off-the-wall ones (thinkâŠclippy/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 themesReading should be about joy, personal growth, and exploration, not just meeting societal expectationsMonster and unconventional romance genres provide safe spaces for readers to explore sexuality and identityIndie authors are creating incredibly diverse and inclusive narratives within these unique romance subgenresContent creators like Cassie are helping readers discover books they might never have found on their ownDon't judge a book by its coverâor 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. Donât 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. -
Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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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 romanceDiversity in Reading: Strategies for intentionally expanding your literary horizonsBookTube Insights: Behind-the-scenes of content creation and book reviewingThe Importance of Representation: How diverse books can broaden our understanding of different experiencesRomance Reading: Breaking stigmas and recognizing the depth of relationship-focused literatureWhether 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 booksâlet 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. Donât 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, weâre 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 storiesExploring popular trope categories, including character tropes, relationship tropes, and plot tropesMy top six favorite tropes, with detailed book recommendations for eachBy 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:
Sheâs 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. Donât 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 familyThe importance of writing exclusively Black romance and reflecting her own upbringing in a predominantly Black communityThe depth and complexity of Alexandria's characters, often dealing with trauma and real-life issuesPowerful representation of mental health, albinism, and adoption in the "St. Louis Sires" seriesAlexandria's foray into dark romance with the "Three Kings" series and her plans to challenge herself in new genresAlexandria'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. Donât 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 namesThe importance of including diverse LGBTQIA+ identities in her writingUnderstanding the differences between aromanticism and asexuality and how they are often misunderstoodExploring the representation of asexual and allosexual characters in Margherita's booksThe Diverse Baseline Challenge and the importance of reading diverselyWe 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. Donât 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. -
Prepare to be swept away to magical realms and epic love stories as we dive into the enchanting world of diverse sci-fi and fantasy romance with the incredible author, Elizabeth Stephens. In this fun conversation, Alesia and Elizabeth explore the unique approaches, character dynamics, and powerful representation that make Elizabeth's books stand out in the genre.
Elizabeth Stephens is an author of dark SciFi and fantasy romances, and specializes in sizzling, diverse reads starring characters of color.
In this episode, we're discussing:
Elizabeth's writing journey and the inspirations behind her innovative storytellingThe nuanced way she handles the concept of fated mates, creating believable and complex relationshipsThe fascinating dystopian power hierarchies and diverse characters in her Omega Verse seriesThe importance of representation and inclusivity in Elizabeth's worlds, and the challenges and rewards of traditional publishingElizabeth Stephens' books are a must-read for anyone seeking immersive, empowering, and genre-bending sci-fi and fantasy romance. Dive into her captivating worlds, where diverse characters navigate intricate relationships and power dynamics, all while showcasing the transformative power of storytelling. Be inspired to explore Elizabeth's expansive bibliography and connect with her online to stay up-to-date on her latest releases.
CONNECT WITH ELIZABETH STEPHENS:
Website
Instagram
BOOKS/AUTHORS MENTIONED:
Population Series (Amazon)
Beasts of Gatamora Series (Amazon)
Xiveri Mates Series (Amazon)
His to Claim by Taylor Vaughn (Amazon)
Venomous by P. Fletcher (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. Donât 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. -
Libraries are more than just buildings filled with books - they're vibrant community hubs offering a wealth of resources and experiences. In this episode, we're joined by the book-loving duo from the Medium Lady Reads podcast, Jillian and Erin, to uncover the hidden gems and insider tips for maximizing your library experience.
Jillian O'Keefe is an Instagram content strategist who helps authors and the businesses that serve them gain visibility by embracing and showing their unique story to grow their community on Instagram. Jillian is also the cohost of the podcast Medium Lady Reads where she talks about books and reading as self-care.
Erin Vandeven is the creator of the Medium Lady community and host of two podcasts: Medium Lady Talks and Medium Lady Reads. She helps burnt-out mothers and millennials rediscover themselves and empowers them to find their place in the world. Erin is also the Associate Chief of Nursing Practice at SickKids Hospital in Toronto, where she creates safe spaces for the nursing workforce. She has a Bachelor's and Master's degree in Nursing from the University of Toronto. Erin reads over 100 books a year and is always available for book recommendations!
In this episode, we're discussing:
Personal journeys into adult reading, including how the pandemic reignited their love for fiction and inspired them to read more diversely.Childhood memories of the library, from story hours and talent shows to the unique smells and librarians that left a lasting impression.Integrating the library into their children's lives, highlighting the wealth of programs, resources, and digital tools available to foster a love of reading.Leveraging digital library resources like Libby and Hoopla, as well as lesser-known offerings such as Chromebook and Wi-Fi hotspot lending, community events, and more.Top tips for managing library holds, including the power of the "deep search" feature on Libby and the benefits of requesting books before they're officially cataloged.Whether you're a lifelong bookworm or just rediscovering the joys of reading, your local library holds a world of possibilities. Tune in to this episode to unlock the secrets of your community's literary treasure trove and find inspiration to make the library an integral part of your reading journey.
CONNECT WITH GUESTS:
Jillian Instagram
Erin Instagram
Medium Lady Reads Podcast
BOOKS/AUTHORS MENTIONED:
Three Women by Lisa Taddeo (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. Donât 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. -
Do you love the enemies-to-lovers trope as much as I do? Author Ruby Rana joined us to share her unique take on this beloved romance trope, diving into the emotional depth and nuanced character dynamics that make it so captivating.
Ruby Rana is an elder millennial who writes spicy, funny, and heartfelt romance about sassy brown girls. She excels in sending messages where autocorrect has gone terribly wrong. When she's not battling typos, you can find her explaining Midwestern slang to her East Coast-raised husband, being used as a jungle gym by her young children, or experimenting in the kitchen.
In this episode, we're discussing:
How Ruby Rana's debut novel "Snapshot" expertly blends the enemies-to-lovers trope with a hockey romance backdrop, creating a story of childhood friends turned adversaries.The importance of portraying realistic emotional scars and growth, highlighting how past traumas can shape a character's present-day actions and perceptions.The value of supportive female friendships in Rubyâs books, providing a safe space for her characters to be their authentic selves.Insights on how the enemies-to-lovers trope allows for meaningful character development, as the characters learn to love each other despite their differences.The athleticism and camaraderie within the world of professional hockey, which serves as an engaging setting for Rana's stories.Feeling inspired to dive into Ruby Rana's unique take on the enemies-to-lovers trope? Discover her novels and connect with the author on social media to continue the conversation. Romance readers won't want to miss this insightful discussion!
CONNECT WITH RUBY RANA:
Website
Instagram
BOOKS/AUTHORS MENTIONED:
Snap Shot (Amazon)
Butterfly Effect (Amazon)
Played by Naima Simone (Amazon)
Scribbles Book Shop
Steamy Lit
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. Donât 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 readers, it's important to diversify our bookshelves and seek out stories that reflect the rich tapestry of cultures and experiences. In this episode, Alesia sits down with Carla Is Reading to discuss the significance of Latinx representation in romance novels. Carla shares her personal journey of discovering diverse authors and the importance of empathy and authenticity in literature.
Carla is a plus-size Boricua who discovered her love of reading through romance novels and later delved into the world of diverse romance, particularly Latinx and Black Romance. She finds joy in platforming, reviewing, and uplifting marginalized authors and their books. Through this work, she has learned about community and experiences outside of her own.
In this episode, we're discussing:
Carla's evolution from casual reader to active book reviewer.The impact of discovering Latinx-centered stories.The value of reading across cultures to foster empathy and broaden perspectives.Understanding the nuances between Latinx and Hispanic heritage.Best practices for addressing stereotypes and misrepresentation in books.Carla's recommendations for must-read Latinx romance authors.Strategies for intentionally diversifying your reading habits throughout the year.Diversifying our reading choices is a powerful way to celebrate the richness of Latinx culture and amplify underrepresented voices. By supporting Latinx authors, engaging in thoughtful discussions, and continuously expanding our literary horizons, we can create a more inclusive and empathetic reading community. Remember, there's a world of smutty, heartwarming, and empowering Latinx stories waiting to be discovered.
CONNECT WITH CARLA:
Instagram
TikTok
BOOKS/AUTHORS MENTIONED:
Alexis Daria (Amazon)
Adriana Herrera (Amazon)
Ofelia Martinez (Amazon)
Alexandria House (Amazon)
Mia Sosa (Amazon)
Natalie Caña (Amazon)
Jade HernĂĄndez (Amazon)
Aleera Anaya Ceres (Amazon)
A.H. Cunningham (Amazon)
All podcast books/authors mentioned (Doc)
Diverse Baseline Challenge
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. Donât 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. -
Have you ever wondered how romance novels can tackle tough topics like trauma and healing?
Today, we're diving deep into the world of trauma-informed romance with author Jack Whitney. Jack writes romantic suspense with elements of dark romance and paranormal romance, and her books offer a unique perspective on healing and finding love amidst challenging circumstances. We discuss her Rockstar series (Young Decay), where characters navigate past traumas and find solace and strength in each other.
This episode contains the following potential triggers:
Discussions of parental addiction, emotional neglect, and childhood traumaMentions of suicidal thoughts and struggles with depressionBrief mentions of stalking and past substance abuseJack Whitney is a dark, romantic suspense author from North Carolina, USA. She writes emotionally dark and high-angst stories with a twist. Her books explore themes of trauma, healing, and the power of love.
In this episode, we're discussing:
Trauma-informed romance: How this subgenre allows for exploration of healing and healthy relationships in the context of past trauma.Characters who exist outside their romantic relationships: Jack emphasizes the importance of her characters having independent lives and not being solely defined by their romantic partners.The power of music: How music can be a source of comfort and connection for those who have experienced trauma.Neurodiversity representation: Jack discusses incorporating her own experiences with ADHD into her characters and the importance of authentic representation.Addiction and recovery: The Rockstar series touches on addiction and recovery with sensitivity and nuance, highlighting the importance of support systems and personal choice.Romance as a tool for healing: How romance novels can offer hope and empowerment to readers who have experienced trauma.Jack Whitney's books offer a powerful and insightful look at how love and healing can intertwine. Be sure to check out her Rockstar series and other works on Amazon, and connect with her on Patreon, TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook! Let's continue the conversation about the power of romance to help us heal and grow.
CONNECT WITH JACK WHITNEY:
Website
Instagram
Patreon
Amazon
BOOKS MENTIONED:
Dirty Texas Series by JA Low (Amazon)
Built to Fall by Julia Wolf (Amazon)
Captivated by Danger by Endiya Carter (Amazon)
Haunting Adeline by HD Carlton (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. Donât 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. -
Ready to escape the everyday stresses and dive headfirst into a world of literary adventures? This week, we're joined by Lynell, the Weekend Reader, who has mastered the art of turning weekends into rejuvenating bookish retreats. Discover how she creates dedicated time for reading, balances her TBR list, and cultivates a vibrant online community around her love for books.
Weekend Reader reads and reviews contemporary fiction, specifically romance but enjoys reading diversely. Additionally, Weekend Reader is committed to supporting indie authors and authors of color in her recommendations. When the Weekend Reader isn't reading or reviewing she's baking.
In this episode, we're discussing:
Rediscovering the Joy of Reading: Lynell shares her journey back to reading for pleasure and the importance of choosing books that spark joy.The Power of Balance: Learn how Lynell balances different genres and reading challenges to keep her reading experience fresh and engaging.Creating Intentional Retreats: Discover Lynell's process for planning and executing weekend reading retreats, including setting the ambiance, minimizing distractions, and connecting with fellow readers.Prioritizing Self-Care: Explore how dedicated reading time can be a form of self-care and rejuvenation, and how to communicate your needs to loved ones.Embracing Your Reading Pace: Let go of pressure and comparison, and embrace your own unique reading rhythm.Carving out time for intentional reading retreats can be a powerful way to recharge, reconnect with your love of reading, and show up as your best self in all areas of your life. Whether you dedicate a full weekend or just a few hours each week, prioritize creating a space for immersive reading and self-care. Embrace the joy of reading, connect with fellow book lovers, and allow yourself to be transported to new worlds through the power of storytelling.
CONNECT WITH WEEKEND READER:
Website
Instagram
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. Donât 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. -
Ready to turn up the heat on your date nights? In this episode of We Read Smut, Alesia sits down with author Anna P. to discuss the art of crafting the perfect date night in romance novels. They explore why dates are crucial for character development and building intimacy, delve into the elements that make a date truly swoon-worthy, and share some hilarious and cringeworthy date-night disaster stories.
Anna studied journalism and has a Masters in Creative Writing, and a love for music and writing got her jobs with Rolling Stone India and Sony Music, and after a couple of years of selling her soul to advertising, sheâs finally following her childhood dream of writing books. Sheâs currently working as a freelance copy consultant and book editor, while sipping on copious amounts of black tea and white wine.
In this episode, we're discussing:
The Importance of Dates in Romance: Discover why Anna believes dates are essential for creating believable relationships and building tension, especially in strangers-to-lovers stories.Elements of a Perfect Date: Learn about the key ingredients that make a date truly special, including understanding your partner's interests, keeping things casual and pressure-free, and incorporating meaningful conversations.Date Night Disasters: Alesia and Anna share their own dating horror stories and discuss red flags to watch out for, emphasizing the importance of mutual respect and genuine interest.A Sneak Peek at Anna's Cricket Romance: Get excited about Anna's upcoming sports romance featuring a cricketer and learn why she chose this unique setting.Donât forget to check out Annaâs new novel, Stumped.
CONNECT WITH ANNA P:
Website
Instagram
THINGS MENTIONED:
Love In Wildes Series by Anna P (Amazon*)
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. Donât 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. -
Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions of addiction, overdose, and mental health that may be upsetting to some listeners.
Are you ready to break free from the algorithm and discover a world of captivating stories?
In this inaugural episode of We Read Smut, Alesia dives deep into the importance of diversifying your reading list. She explores why representation matters in romance, how reading diversely can broaden your horizons and challenge biases, and how to break free from the limitations of algorithms that often promote only mainstream titles.
Key Takeaways:
Why Diverse Reading Matters: Alesia shares her personal journey and emphasizes the power of seeing yourself reflected in the stories you read, as well as gaining empathy and understanding for experiences different from your own.The 2025 Reading Challenge: Discover the exciting new reading challenge designed to help you explore diverse authors and popular tropes. Each month focuses on a different trope, encouraging you to find books by BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ authors that feature that trope.Practical Tips for Diversifying Your Reading: Alesia offers actionable advice on how to actively seek out diverse authors and characters, including following diverse bookstagrammers, exploring different genres, and supporting publishers who prioritize diverse voices.Ready to embark on a reading adventure that will open your mind and heart? Join the 2025 Reading Challenge and discover the incredible power of diverse reading!
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. Donât 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. -
Welcome to the "We Read Smut" podcast, a safe space for celebrating diversity and exploring all things romance! Join your host, Alesia, as she dives into the world of smutty romance books, discussing inclusive stories, self-development, and sexuality exploration. This podcast is not your typical romance book review show; it's a community for open and honest conversations about smut and the power of diverse love stories.
Key Points:
Celebrating Diversity: This podcast celebrates stories that showcase diverse characters and experiences, including those of marginalized communities.Exploring Sexuality: We Read Smut provides a platform for exploring intimacy, consent, women's pleasure, and healthy relationships through the lens of romance novels.Book Recommendations and Discussions: Discover new authors and books, get recommendations, and engage in conversations about various romance tropes and themes.Solo Episodes and Educational Content: Alesia will share her reading journey, insights, and tips for navigating the world of romance, including book slump solutions and trope definitions.Community and Engagement: Join the We Read Smut community on Instagram to connect with other romance readers and share your thoughts.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. Donât 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.
