For SHA’s second dive into the erotica pool, we are looking at a diversity of works released in the past few years that have made a splash with readers. (Hang in there – the summer puns end here.) These romance novels are as entertaining as they are sexy, making them a perfect beach or bedside read this summer. From all-out roleplay fantasy to pages full of sexual tension, there’s something for all readers, even those who are new to erotica and romance books.
Heckin’ Lewd: Trans and Nonbinary Erotica Anthology edited by Mx. Nillin Lore
Representation in fiction for the genderqueer and trans community has never met the mark. After years of waiting for a representative character in the mainstream literary world, authors and editors banded together to create their own compilation that showcased their identities and communities. Containing twenty-eight pieces of erotica fiction written by gender diverse authors, this anthology shows us exactly what we’ve been missing: kinky, crazy, smutty scenes with different variations of bodies and identities. Released in June 2022, this book hasn’t yet received the reviews it deserves, but it has been slightly controversial in its early reception. With anything as broad as “trans and nonbinary,” there will be some who aren’t represented and feel as through they should be, which is completely valid. It’s important to note, though, that these feelings exist in the context of having to rely on one piece of media to represent such a diversity in experiences. No one book could ever encapsulate the diversity of genderqueer people, which is why it is so important to build on this book’s momentum and continue creating and supporting similar works. There’s no contention about the sex scenes, though. Encapsulating a range of sexy scenarios from first love to extraterrestrial sex, the book embraces kink and truly has something for everyone. These erotic shorts will be perfect for your bedside table to get things started this summer.
Blindsided by Becca Steele
With two college boys, the enemies to lovers trope, and an author who has released fifteen other romance novels, this 2022 release has set a high bar for steamy books. It’s not erotica in the traditional sense, but it capitalizes on sexual tension and budding romance, making its sexy moments that much more gratifying. This is a perfect example of opening up the Young Adult and Adult Romance novel category to different identities: it’s just like any other steamy book in the best way, but queer audiences can see themselves in the protagonists. The reviews predict that you’ll fall in love with main characters, Noah and Liam, and it will be an easy read with a happy ending. If you agree with them, Becca Steele has a host of similar works like Alstone High, Cross the Line, and Savage Rivals that will keep you entertained through the summer.
Seven Days in June by Tia Williams
This book certainly doesn’t need me to sing its praises: the New York Times, Washington Post, and Reese Witherspoon already have. Tia Williams’ book combines past love, the Black literary scene, and a week of crazy sexual chemistry between its two protagonists. Reviewers describe this book as emotional as well as romantic based on the way the characters work through trauma, making for a story that feels authentic to readers. Millennials and Gen X will appreciate that this book delves into the lives of adults past their “wild teenage years” and explores what love and desire look like for a single mother. This is a welcome change from some of the most popular books of the genre that focus on young adults and look past deeper themes. Jodi Picoult called it a “smart, sexy testament to Black joy.” Set in Brooklyn in the summer, this book will make you feel like you’re living a city summer fling of your own. And to top it all off, the cover is beautiful, so it will look perfect on your nightstand even after finishing it in one day.
Tangled Vows by Anna Stone
A wealthy and powerful heiress and an escort named Ruby strikes a marriage deal which turns into steamy sapphic love. Reviews from the book describe a fairytale quality of writing mixed with BDSM themes and a power dynamic between the two characters, both whom prioritize consent and aftercare as much as they do pleasure. This focus on safe, communication-focused sex is something that other romance books and erotica have fallen short on, but Stone makes it a priority in her books. Like Becca Steele, she thrives in the queer romance category and has written several other lesbian novels like Being Heard. Stone’s books are also available as audiobooks, so you can add some steamy scenes to your car rides or listen while working out. Even better, you could play a book while having a relaxing night in and create a space of intimacy with yourself or with a partner!
By Sydney Sullivan