We Read Smut: Bookish Conversations for Romance Readers
We Read Smut: Bookish Conversations for Romance Readers
Podcast Description
We Read Smut, hosted by Alesia, empowers romance readers to embrace their love for smut and dive deep into the diverse world of this captivating genre. Tired of feeling judged for your love of steamy reads? Join us as we create a safe space to unpack the complexities and joys of smut, challenge societal norms, and celebrate the power of inclusive storytelling.We'll explore everything from trope deep dives and author interviews to thought-provoking discussions on topics like body positivity, LGBTQ+ representation, and reclaiming the word "fat." We'll also tackle reading challenges, offer "shelf help" for your TBR pile, and venture into the realms of fantasy romance, offbeat erotica, and the vibrant world of BookTube.Whether you're a seasoned smut reader or just dipping your toes into the genre, this podcast is for you. Subscribe now and join the conversation! Follow us on Instagram @WeReadSmut and use the hashtag #WeReadSmut to share your thoughts.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast explores a broad range of themes related to romance literature, emphasizing inclusivity and representation. Specific topics include discussions on body positivity, LGBTQ+ representation, and various romance tropes such as enemies-to-lovers and fantasy romance. Episodes may feature author interviews, challenges, and book recommendations to enrich the listener's understanding of the genre.

Finally, a home for the spice you love and the representation you deserve. We Read Smut, hosted by Alesia, builds a judgment-free zone for readers who crave spicy plots and substance. We celebrate high-heat stories and inclusive casts. If you want open-door romance that features every body, you found the right show.
What to expect:
- Trope Breakdowns: We dissect the best (and hottest) tropes in the genre.
- Author Interviews: Hear the story behind the spice from your favorite creators.
- Shelf Help: Expert guidance to help you conquer your TBR pile.
- Inclusive Stories: We prioritize representative leads and diverse voices.
Whether you’re a seasoned smut reader or just dipping your toes into the genre, this podcast is for you. We leave the shame at the door and celebrate the power of a well-written romance.
Join the Circle: Want personalized book picks and a private chat with Alesia? Join the After Dark Circle on Substack. Supporters get full access to every post and our private community of romance fans.
Connect with us: Follow @WeReadSmut on Instagram and use the hashtag #WeReadSmut to share your current read.
In honor of Autism Acceptance Month, I am sharing a curated list of books that feature authentic autistic representation. This episode is deeply personal. I share the story of my son’s diagnosis and how that journey led to my own realization that I am likely on the spectrum as well. We talk about the power of teach me romances, why grumpy female leads are a breath of fresh air, and how these authors (many of whom are neurodivergent themselves) create spaces where we feel seen, validated, and less alone.
Key Takeaways
- A Mirror to the Self: How a parenting book about autism accidentally described my own childhood behaviors and led to a journey of self-discovery.
- The ”One Autistic Person” Rule: Understanding that neurodivergence is a unique, individual experience that cannot be categorized into a single box.
- The Power of ”Teach Me” Romances: Why books like The Kiss Quotient and From the Start resonate with readers looking for clarity and communication in intimacy.
- Grumpy Sunshine & Flipping Roles: Discussing the joy of seeing autistic women as the ”grumpy” partner in a relationship.
- WRS Approved Recommendations: A list of 10+ books featuring diverse, steamy, and authentic representation across sub-genres.
BOOKS/AUTHORS MENTIONED:
The Kiss Quotient by Helen Hoang (Amazon)
The Bride Test by Helen Hoang (Amazon)
Always Only You by Chloe Liese (Amazon)
If Only You by Chloe Liese (Amazon)
The Hunger Duet by Aveda Vice (Amazon)
From the Start by Katie Duggan (Amazon)
Chaos by Jack Whitney (Amazon)
Meegan by Rebecca Weatherspoon (Amazon)
Act Your Age, Eve Brown by Talia Hibbert (Amazon)
A Girl Like Her by Talia Hibbert (Amazon)
Running list of books mentioned (Doc)
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This podcast was produced by Galati Media.
Proud member of the Feminist Podcasters Collective.

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