Whether on purpose or by accident, we’ve all come across an especially spicy book that’s had our brows raised. As erotica becomes more openly expressed through art, literature, film, and society, it’s only natural that it piques our interest! But with all the erotic fiction online and the rise of ‘BookTok’, why is reading about sex so powerful for our own sex lives?
Adult brand LoveHoney’s sexologist Christine Rafe, has come bearing forbidden fruit (the stats we’re dying to know) with the help of a recent in-house study.
To no one’s surprise, Millennials and Gen Z are leading the way for most smut readers, but don’t let that fool you – Baby Boomers aren’t so far behind. In fact, from the 42% of Aussie men who confessed they’d read a smut book before, Baby Boomer males made up a majority of this tally. Christine says this news is surprising in the best way!
“The fact that older Aussie men are engaging with smut may suggest a shift in how men are accessing intimacy and pleasure, and their curiosity to explore sex that is outside of the traditional linear ‘script’ which has a focus on penetration and ejaculation,” she added.
The value of erotic fiction stems from its ability to help people connect with their sense of sexuality. It offers a safe and private space to explore fantasies, desires, and scenarios that may not come up in regular life, but you might be intrigued by. According to Christine, smut allows readers to tune in to what turns them on, often creating opportunities to discover new things about themselves!
Erotic fiction as self-empowerment
Almost half of Aussie smut readers admit they’ve masturbated to spicy books, according to LoveHoney’s research, while a third have taken it a step further and purchased a sex toy soon after reading one.
“Erotic fiction often sparks curiosity, and it can help people unravel the ‘taboo’ of sex, which then opens people up to all different types of exploration, including toys,” Christine says.
“When someone is mentally engaged and aroused, they may feel more inclined to explore that physically, whether through solo play or with a partner. This is known as responsive desire, and we know that when someone is already feeling slightly aroused, their openness for further exploration and pleasure increases exponentially.”
For many, she adds, reading erotic fiction becomes a gateway to prioritising their own pleasure. Conversations about pleasure, consent, and sexual wellness are quickly becoming more mainstream, with the help of literature and social media, which normalises sexual language.
Reading erotic fiction is just another step to practicing sexual self-care, Christine explains, and it should be treated as such.
“Just like we embrace wellness routines for our mental and physical health, we can honour our erotic selves too,” she says.
“There’s been a belief for quite some time that if you enjoy erotic books, this is something to be embarrassed about, but smut isn’t just ‘naughty’ reading, it can be liberating, affirming, and deeply validating.”
If you’re curious about smut literature and looking to indulge but aren’t quite sure where to start, then don’t stress! Christine recommends starting with a romance novel that leans more towards sensual than explicit. Perhaps a slow-burn romance, or stories with emotional depth and well-developed characters.
The 5 most smut-tastic books to add to your list
01
Insatiable by Daisy Buchanan
$17.70 (paperback) at amazon.com.au
Insatiable follows broken-hearted Lottie as she meets Violet and her husband Simon, whereupon being welcomed into their home, her life changes forever. From Friday-night sex parties to estranged best friends, Lottie’s sure got her hands full. This story is all about lust, longing, and the need to be loved!
02
Bride by Ali Hazelwood
$12.00 (paperback) at amazon.com.au
Looking for something a little more supernatural? This dangerous alliance between a vampire bride and an alpha werewolf is a steamy love story you’ll want to sink your teeth into! Action, possession, and a whole lot of sexual tension – just try and stop yourself from feeling a certain way…
03
The Empyrean Series Collection – 3 Book Set by Rebecca Yarros
$96.03 (paperback) at amazon.com.au
Keen for a fantasy romance that’s a little longer? You’ll be entertained for quite some time with this epic trilogy by Rebecca Yarros. It’s more than just plain and simple smut; it’s a whole world of adventure and high stakes to enjoy! All we can say is … are you ready?
04
Done and Dusted by Lyla Sage
$12 (paperback) at amazon.com.au
A little closer to home, this feel-good small-town romance will have you feeling just as giddy and enthralled! Don’t be fooled by the picturesque country aesthetic, Emmy and Luke’s brother’s best friend’ story is one that’ll have your heart racing and your toes curling. A cowgirl and a notorious bad boy? Sign us up!
05
All Fours by Miranda July
$25.39 (paperback) at amazon.com.au
All Fours follows one 45-year-old female artist’s journey to reinvention and sexual liberation. A familiar, yet completely new, take on the life of a mother wanting a fresh taste of freedom – this story will have your pulse throbbing and your tears falling. It’s sexy, it’s confusing, and it’s all too real!
The top 3 sex toys to add to your cart
If you’re feeling a bit adventurous after your journey into erotic fiction, we’ve got just the thing (or three) to satisfy!
Who doesn’t love a good theme? This Fifty Shades of Grey spin on the iconic rose sex toy is the perfect purchase for any smut reader! Unfortunately, it doesn’t come with its own Christian Grey – we’re so sorry, we’ve checked.
Another perfect addition, this easy-to-hold (and affordable) clitoral suction stimulator lets you sit back and relax while it does all the work for you. It comes in this super cute lavender shade, because why wouldn’t you want a toy that’s also aesthetic?
Another Fifty Shades-themed toy, because why not? This wand vibrator might be mini, but it sure is mighty! Massage wand vibrators are the ultimate tool for your next orgasm, and author E.L. James clearly approves! Don’t be shy, you’ll be thanking us later.
