Sexy Books Podcast

In today’s episode, Claire chats with comics editor, critic, and cartoonist Claire Napier to discuss her new horror-romance comic, The Magic Necklace: Ann-Rita’s acting differently since she came back, because she’s not afraid of men any more. Not her brother, not the fuzz, and not the guy who’s standing right behind her. Whatever he does… It just can’t threaten her. If you’ve ever wanted a comic about why women let bad boys and bad men in, this is that one. What’s fair in love and war isn’t always black and white… but add some pink, and you’re more than halfway there. A forty page story about sexual danger, desire, relying on men, and bargains we make with ourselves and others. We cover a ton of topics in this episode: the influence of 90s erotic thrillers; growing up in the 2000s and dealing with the era’s extreme beauty ideals; the feeling of being surveilled as a woman in public and how the pandemic changed things; the subjective beauty of penises, and so much more. If you’d like to buy The Magic Necklace, sign up for Claire’s newsletter, which will provide updates on where to buy it soon: https://mailchi.mp/fd242ca2bc47/hear-about-claire-napier You can also visit Claire’s website: https://www.clairenapier.com/ And visit the Zoop funding page if you’d like to see more about The Magic Necklace: https://zoop.gg/c/themagicnecklace Follow us on social media to stay updated on upcoming episodes, and send your questions and comments to: Twitter: https://twitter.com/SexyBooksPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sexybookspodcast_/ Gmail: SexyBooksPodcast@gmail.com

In today’s very special episode, we open with a chat about what Blythe has been up to for the last year: Having a baby! We get deep into the body horror otherwise known as pregnancy, and Blythe’s experience giving birth and breastfeeding. We talk exploding boobs and so much more. Then, join us for a festive discussion about A Merry Little Meet Cute by Julie Murphy and Sierra Simone (book discussion starts at ~26 minutes): Bee Hobbes (aka Bianca Von Honey) has a successful career as a plus-size adult film star. With a huge following and two supportive moms, Bee couldn’t ask for more. But when Bee’s favorite producer casts her to star in a Christmas movie he’s making for the squeaky-clean Hope Channel, Bee’s career is about to take a more family-friendly direction. Forced to keep her work as Bianca under wraps, Bee quickly learns this is a task a lot easier said than done - though it all becomes worthwhile when she discovers her co-star is none other than childhood crush Nolan Shaw, an ex-boy band member in desperate need of career rehab. Nolan has promised his manager to keep it zipped up on set, and he will if it means he’ll be able to provide a more stable living situation for his family. But things heat up quickly in Christmas Notch, Vermont, when Nolan recognizes his new co-star from her ClosedDoors account (oh yeah, he’s a member). Now Bee and Nolan are sneaking off for quickies on set, keeping their new relationship a secret. If Bee and Nolan can’t keep their off-camera romance behind the scenes, then this merry little meet cute might end up on the cutting room floor. In this episode, we get into our love for cheesy Hallmark Channel movies, our own teenage boy band crushes, and the advantages of always bringing lube. We also discuss how porn is like a Christmas movie, how sex toys should be for everyone, and what the real meaning of Christmas is. My mic is a little too hot during this episode, sorry about that folks!! We haven't done this in a while. Also mentioned in this episode: Follow us on social media to stay updated on upcoming episodes, and send your questions and comments to: Twitter: https://twitter.com/SexyBooksPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sexybookspodcast_/ Gmail: SexyBooksPodcast@gmail.com

“Villains get to be the most romantic, because they don’t let morals stop them.” –Hailey Piper. We are so excited and happy to finally announce that Blythe is pregnant – congrats, Blythe!!! – but as such, she’ll be taking some time off from the podcast. Don’t worry, though, we have some great guest episodes planned for the future, starting with today’s episode! I’m thrilled to welcome my dear friend Hailey Piper to the Sexy Books Podcast to discuss her horromance novel, Queen of Teeth: Within forty-eight hours, Yaya Betancourt will go from discovering teeth between her thighs to being hunted by one of the most powerful corporations in America. She assumes the vagina dentata is a side effect of a rare genetic condition caused by AlphaBeta Pharmaceutical, decades ago, when she and several thousand others were still in the womb. But, when ABP corporate goons upend her life, she realizes her secondary teeth might be evidence of a new experiment for which she’s the most advanced test tube... a situation worsened when Yaya’s condition sprouts horns, tentacles, and a mind of its own. On the run and transforming, Yaya may be either ABP’s greatest success, or the deadliest failure science has ever created. This book is a little different from past selections, but no less romantic or erotic, trust me. Hailey and I delve deep into the allure of monster-fucking, the power of fantasy and giving yourself over to pleasure, transitions and finding yourself later in life. We also discuss the sentience of vaginas (and vagina-monsters), the tragic state of healthcare and bodily rights in the U.S., and our hopes for a hornier, horromance-filled future. As always, we discuss the entire novel, so spoilers abound! Also mentioned in this episode: I also wanted to note that in this episode I mention having had vulvodynia and vaginismus - I've been treated for both (with a specialist and a pelvic floor physical therapist) and I have a totally pain-free, wonderful sex life now. If you're dealing with anything similar and have questions, I would be happy to answer them and provide as much help as I can. I've been through it all and I know how intimidating it can be to seek treatment, or to even know where to start. Use one of the methods below to send me an email or DM. Follow us on social media to stay updated on upcoming episodes, and send your questions and comments to: Twitter: https://twitter.com/SexyBooksPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sexybookspodcast_/ Gmail: SexyBooksPodcast@gmail.com

In this episode, we discuss Vanessa North’s M/M romance, Out of Sync: “Jacks Williams is Ritchie Ford’s one great love. Their life as the rhythm section of the band Vertical Smile is perfect—only upstaged by the one they share as lovers. Until one night Jacks locks himself in the bathroom and slices his arms open, shattering everything Ritchie knows. Ten years earlier, Jackson Williams, III appeared to lead a charmed life. In reality, it was hell. Trapped in an abusive home, Jacks acted out small rebellions and dreamed of freedom. Until Ritchie Ford rescued him like a puppy, and everything changed. He would be perfect for Ritchie—it was the least he could do. Months after Jacks attempted suicide, the two men struggle to navigate their formerly perfect relationship. After ten years of loving their idealized versions of each other, can they make a life together out of the truth?” This heartfelt and emotional book led to some great chatting about codependent relationships, the countless benefits of therapy, and the beauty of chosen families. We also ramble about our love for tattoos and bisexual rep in romance, the pitfalls of compulsive heterosexuality, and so much more! Oh, and this is the tea we talk about at the beginning of the episode: Menstrual Melody Tea by Euphoric Herbals. Follow us on social media to stay updated on upcoming episodes, and send your questions and comments to: Twitter: https://twitter.com/SexyBooksPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sexybookspodcast_/ Gmail: SexyBooksPodcast@gmail.com

In this episode, we discuss Katrina Jackson’s MMF erotic romance, Room for Three?: “When Precious rents Cali and Mike's spare bedroom she's in the middle of a housing crisis and feeling betrayed by her best friend. When Mike and Cali rent their spare room to Precious, their relationship is hanging on by a thread. None of them expect anything more from their roommate situation than cheap rent in a prime location. So they're all surprised to find a deep well of affection and lust that makes them think that maybe their perfect relationship, and bed, has room for three. Room for Three? is the first in a new series of erotic novellas about sexy entanglements behind closed doors.” This sultry and sensual book was so much fun to read, and was the catalyst for some great discussions about non-traditional relationships, communication, and, of course, threesomes. We also talk about the benefits of audio porn, sexual insecurities, and much more in this episode! Follow us on social media to stay updated on upcoming episodes, and send your questions and comments to: Twitter: https://twitter.com/SexyBooksPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sexybookspodcast_/ Gmail: SexyBooksPodcast@gmail.com

In this episode, we discuss Rose Lerner’s kinky Regency romance, All or Nothing: “England 1819: the hottest summer in years. Simon Radcliffe-Gould's career as an architect is stalled and his bank account is almost empty. Yet every week he finds himself losing money he can't afford at Maggie da Silva's bohemian gambling den, just so he'll have an excuse to see the beautiful, irrepressible hostess. Maggie thought she had her life sorted out. She has a best friend (with benefits), a successful business, and a truly spectacular wardrobe. But lately she's been...bored. Intrigued by serious, shy Simon, she finds a way to draw him into reluctantly betting on her favors at the faro table. A few glorious nights are all she expects. But when an old flame hires Simon to design a folly during a scandalous house party at his country estate, Simon asks Maggie to pose as his mistress so he can actually get some work done. Sure, she'd rather be his mistress, but she jumps at the chance for a well deserved, all-expenses-paid vacation. What could go wrong? Turns out, everything: Simon has unresolved issues with his ex, it's impossible to keep kosher, and worst of all, Maggie is in danger of losing her heart..." We’re thrilled to bring you this episode on a book that’s not only our first historical romance, but our first BDSM-adjacent romance. We discuss the appeal of taboo sex, talk about fantasies of power, and get into the importance of setting boundaries – both in bed and in life, and how doing one can reinforce comfort with doing the other. In this episode we also mention: RiggedThe Wife in the Attic Follow us on social media to stay updated on upcoming episodes, and send your questions and comments to: Twitter: https://twitter.com/SexyBooksPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sexybookspodcast_/ Gmail: SexyBooksPodcast@gmail.com

In this episode, we talk about Claire Kann’s young adult romance novel, Let’s Talk About Love: "Alice had her whole summer planned. Non-stop all-you-can-eat buffets while marathoning her favorite TV shows (best friends totally included) with the smallest dash of adulting--working at the library to pay her share of the rent. The only thing missing from her perfect plan? Her girlfriend (who ended things when Alice confessed she's asexual). Alice is done with dating--no thank you, do not pass go, stick a fork in her, done. But then Alice meets Takumi and she can’t stop thinking about him or the rom com-grade romance feels she did not ask for (uncertainty, butterflies, and swoons, oh my!). When her blissful summer takes an unexpected turn, and Takumi becomes her knight with a shiny library employee badge (close enough), Alice has to decide if she’s willing to risk their friendship for a love that might not be reciprocated—or understood.” We loved that this book got us thinking about relationships, sex, and romantic love from a new perspective. This episode covers a vast array of topics, from exactly what asexuality is and how it fits into the spectrum of sexual identity, why labels can matter to us so much, and a ton more. In a lot of ways, Alice was one of the most relatable heroines we've read, and we can't wait for you to meet her. As always, we discuss the entire story, so read the book beforehand if you don't want to be spoiled. The next book we'll be discussing is All or Nothing by Rose Lerner. Follow us or send your questions and comments to: Twitter: https://twitter.com/SexyBooksPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sexybookspodcast_/ Gmail: SexyBooksPodcast@gmail.com

In this episode, we talk about Claire Cray’s M/M romance-mystery, In Strange Woods: "Reeling with grief after the mysterious massacre of his wealthy family, moody New York photographer James Worthington Crane decides to take his downward spiral to the rural Oregon Coast, where he’s just inherited a piece of property hidden somewhere in the woods upriver. But when James pulls into the decaying seaside town of Brooks, everyone thinks he’s someone else—an elusive local outlaw named Beau. Now James must fight through his grief to unravel a dark web of family secrets and forgotten history...with help from a soft-spoken local contractor named Hunter Quaid. Hunter’s been on his own since he left his fundamentalist family at the age of fifteen. It’s taken years of hard work to build the simple life he has now, fixing up seaside houses while living alone by the river. Then James blows in like a winter storm, disturbing the peace and stirring up dreams he thought he'd given up. As their lives and histories intertwine in unexpected ways, they start to discover what it really means to know where you belong. From the author of Merrick and Hidden Talents comes a steamy, tender romance inspired by the rugged beauty and offbeat history of Pacific Northwest timber country. In Strange Woods moves through ancient old-growth forests, abandoned logging roads, ramshackle seaside towns, decaying homesteads, coastal highways, and the stories hidden in the trees.” Listen to us trip all over ourselves as we try to explain why we loved this book so damn much. This book is a mystery, so we HIGHLY recommend reading it before listening to the episode, as we do spoil ALL of it pretty much immediately. You’ve been warned! Also mentioned in this episode: The Green Witch by Arin Murphy-HiscockHidden Talents by Claire CraySpooky Smutty Stories by Claire CrayAnd all the rest of Claire Cray's books! We are currently taking a brief hiatus as we plan for future episodes. Please check in with us on social media for updates about when our next episode will be out (I promise it won’t be too long!). The next book we'll be discussing is Let's Talk About Love by Claire Kann. Follow us or send your questions and comments to: Twitter: https://twitter.com/SexyBooksPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sexybookspodcast_/ Gmail: SexyBooksPodcast@gmail.com

In this special episode, we talk about Hulu's fantastic show, Pen15 (or "penis" if you're a middle schooler), and growing up and learning about sex in the early 2000s. We get into masturbation shame, the power of a good thong, and the trauma of bad first kisses. We also wax nostalgic on 00s fashion (scrunchies! butterfly clips!), the infinite appeal of J.T.T. and Brad Renfro, and much, much more. The episodes we specifically discuss are: Ojichan, Community Service, and Wild Things. Join us next month for our discussion on Claire Cray's slightly creepy, extremely swoony M/M romance, In Strange Woods. Follow us or send your questions and comments to: Twitter: https://twitter.com/SexyBooksPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sexybookspodcast_/ Gmail: SexyBooksPodcast@gmail.com

In this episode, we talk about Elle Kennedy’s M/F new adult romance, The Mistake: "College junior John Logan can get any girl he wants. For this hockey star, life is a parade of parties and hook-ups, but behind his killer grins and easygoing charm, he hides growing despair about the dead-end road he’ll be forced to walk after graduation. A sexy encounter with freshman Grace Ivers is just the distraction he needs, but when a thoughtless mistake pushes her away, Logan plans to spend his final year proving to her that he’s worth a second chance. After a less than stellar freshman year, Grace is back at Briar University, older, wiser, and so over the arrogant hockey player she nearly handed her V-card to. She’s not a charity case, and she’s not the quiet butterfly she was when they first hooked up. If Logan expects her to roll over and beg like all his other puck bunnies, he can think again. He wants her back? He’ll have to work for it. This time around, she’ll be the one in the driver’s seat…and she plans on driving him wild." We talk a LOT about the all-consuming headiness of teen crushes in this episode, our fantasies of hot people showing up at our doors and sweeping us off our feet, and much more. Join us next month for our special episode on Hulu's perfect 00s teen show, PEN15! Our next book episode (January or February, not sure yet!) will feature Claire Cray's M/M romance, In Strange Woods. Follow us or send your questions and comments to: Twitter: https://twitter.com/SexyBooksPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sexybookspodcast_/ Gmail: SexyBooksPodcast@gmail.com

In this episode, we talk about Elle Kennedy’s M/F new adult romance, The Deal: "Hannah Wells has finally found someone who turns her on. But while she might be confident in every other area of her life, she's carting around a full set of baggage when it comes to sex and seduction. If she wants to get her crush's attention, she'll have to step out of her comfort zone and make him take notice... even if it means tutoring the annoying, childish, cocky captain of the hockey team in exchange for a pretend date. All Garrett Graham has ever wanted is to play professional hockey after graduation, but his plummeting GPA is threatening everything he's worked so hard for. If helping a sarcastic brunette make another guy jealous will help him secure his position on the team, he's all for it. But when one unexpected kiss leads to the wildest sex of both their lives, it doesn't take long for Garrett to realize that pretend isn't going to cut it. Now he just has to convince Hannah that the man she wants looks a lot like him.” We also discuss the double-edged sword of pregnancy romances, how foreplay really never goes out of style, and the power of the changing seasons. We also give a shoutout to Treesong’s Cauldron and the transformative power of tea in general. (CW: This episode has a fairly brief discussion about sexual assault, as it is brought up in the book.) Join us next month for our episode on The Mistake by Elle Kennedy. We also have a special episode about Hulu’s wonderful show, Pen15, dropping sometime in December, so we hope you'll join us for that as well! Follow us or send your questions and comments to: Twitter: https://twitter.com/SexyBooksPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sexybookspodcast_/ Gmail: SexyBooksPodcast@gmail.com

In this episode, we talk about Francesca Lia Block’s magical erotic short story collection, Nymph: “As in her other works, Block weaves together themes of subtle magic, youthful hopes, modern urban decay, and deep emotion, told with lyrical storybook language. The stories in NYMPH bear all the hallmarks of classic Francesca Lia Block—punk spirited characters who celebrate love, life, and art—with one important different: this time the author carries her vision through the full range of emotion and erotic interaction that her mature audience appreciates. An interconnected series of stories, NYMPH is a special journey through the lives and loves of characters like Plum, a Crayon-haired girl who has a gift: if she makes love with a person, that person will then meet their true love, or Tom, a burned out surfer whose luck changes when he is rescued by a mysterious, wheelchair-bound woman, or Sylvie, a chronically depressed poet who finds beauty in unexpected places. Block's erotic explorations of these smoky, kaleidoscopic fables are anything but conventional; these are stories of love, loss, and life, about the healing power of sex and bonding.” This episode definitely became something of an FLB lovefest, and a retrospective of her influence on both of us over the years. We talk about growing up wanting to be a “Weetzie Bat Girl,” how FLB’s books are the real reason we both live in California, and our enduring love for Venice Beach. And of course, we delve into what makes all FLB books so sexy, who the hottest FLB characters are, and much more! (CW: This episode also contains a frank discussion about incest.) Other FLB books mentioned in this episode (so you can continue your education): Join us next month when we talk about The Deal by Elle Kennedy. Follow us or send your questions and comments to: Twitter: https://twitter.com/SexyBooksPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sexybookspodcast_/ Gmail: SexyBooksPodcast@gmail.com

In this episode, we talk about Vanessa North’s F/F romance, Roller Girl: “Recently divorced Tina Durham is trying to be self-sufficient, but her personal-training career is floundering, her closest friends are swept up in new relationships, and her washing machine has just flooded her kitchen. It’s enough to make a girl cry. Instead, she calls a plumbing service, and Joanne “Joe Mama” Delario comes to the rescue. Joe is sweet, funny, and good at fixing things. She also sees something special in Tina and invites her to try out for the roller derby team she coaches. Derby offers Tina an outlet for her frustrations, a chance to excel, and the female friendships she’s never had before. And as Tina starts to thrive at derby, the tension between her and Joe cranks up. Despite their player/coach relationship, they give in to their mutual attraction. Sex in secret is hot, but Tina can’t help but want more. With work still on the rocks and her relationship in the closet, Tina is forced to reevaluate her life. Can she be content with a secret lover? Or with being dependent on someone else again? It’s time for Tina to tackle her fears, both on and off the track.” You’ll have to listen to the episode to find out what roller derby names we chose for ourselves! We also get deep on the benefits of dirty talk, the comforting qualities of boobs, and why communication is a vital sexual skill. Join us next month when we talk about Nymph by Francesca Lia Block. Follow us or send your questions and comments to: Twitter: https://twitter.com/SexyBooksPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sexybookspodcast_/ Gmail: SexyBooksPodcast@gmail.com

In this episode, we talk about Jay Northcote’s M/M new adult romance, Starting From Scratch: “Ben is transgender and back at university after hormone treatment and chest surgery. His new housemates have no idea about his history and Ben would prefer to keep it that way. He’s starting from scratch and his life is finally on track, except in the romance department. The idea of dating guys as a guy is exhilarating but terrifying, because if Ben wants a boyfriend he’ll have to disclose his secret. Sid is drawn to Ben from the moment they meet. He normally gets what he wants—in the short term at least. Ben’s guarded at first, and Sid’s not used to guys rejecting his advances. He eventually charms his way through Ben’s defenses and helps Ben on his journey of sexual awakening. It doesn’t matter to Sid that Ben is trans. He’s attracted to the whole person, and isn’t worried about what is—or isn’t—in Ben’s pants. They’re good together, and both of them are falling hard and fast, but Ben’s insecurities keep getting in the way. If Sid can convince Ben he's committed, will Ben finally be able to put his heart on the line?” We get into our own early experiences exploring sex and dealing with insecurities, how everyone has “baggage,” and how every person should have an “array of dicks” on hand (it makes sense, I swear)! We also mention Come As You Are by Emily Nagoski and our discussion about that book from Episode 5. Join us next month when we talk about Roller Girl by Vanessa North! Follow us or send your questions and comments to: Twitter: https://twitter.com/SexyBooksPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sexybookspodcast_/ Gmail: SexyBooksPodcast@gmail.com

In this episode, we talk about Jay Northcote’s M/M new adult romance, Practice Makes Perfect: “Getting experience with the guy next door seems like a great idea-until the lines blur. Dev, a geeky first year physics student, has zero sexual experience and he's determined to change that ASAP. After a bad time in halls of residence, he's starting the summer term with different housemates and a new plan of action. Ewan lives in the house next door to Dev. He's young, free and single, and isn't looking to change that anytime soon. When awkward circumstances throw them together, Ewan offers to help Dev out in the bedroom in return for maths tutoring, and Dev jumps at the chance. They work their way through Dev's sex-to-do list, but what starts as a perfect no-strings arrangement gets more complicated as their feelings for each other begin to grow. If they're going to turn their lessons in lovemaking into something more permanent, they need to work out how they feel about each other-before they get to the end of Dev's list.” A.K.A. “The Butt Stuff Episode,” wherein we discuss all things anal, reflect on our sexual histories, and more. Join us next month when we talk about Starting From Scratch by Jay Northcote! Follow us or send your questions and comments to: Twitter: https://twitter.com/SexyBooksPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sexybookspodcast_/ Gmail: SexyBooksPodcast@gmail.com

In this special episode, we discuss Emily Nagoski's groundbreaking book on female sexuality, Come As You Are: "Researchers have spent the last decade trying to develop a 'pink pill' for women to function like Viagra does for men. So where is it? Well, for reasons this book makes crystal clear, that pill will never be the answer—but as a result of the research that’s gone into it, scientists in the last few years have learned more about how women’s sexuality works than we ever thought possible, and Come as You Are explains it all. The first lesson in this essential, transformative book by Dr. Emily Nagoski is that every woman has her own unique sexuality, like a fingerprint, and that women vary more than men in our anatomy, our sexual response mechanisms, and the way our bodies respond to the sexual world. So we never need to judge ourselves based on others’ experiences. Because women vary, and that’s normal. Second lesson: sex happens in a context. And all the complications of everyday life influence the context surrounding a woman’s arousal, desire, and orgasm. Cutting-edge research across multiple disciplines tells us that the most important factor for women in creating and sustaining a fulfilling sex life, is not what you do in bed or how you do it, but how you feel about it. Which means that stress, mood, trust, and body image are not peripheral factors in a woman’s sexual wellbeing; they are central to it. Once you understand these factors, and how to influence them, you can create for yourself better sex and more profound pleasure than you ever thought possible. And Emily Nagoski can prove it." The worksheets and quizzes for Come As You Are can be accessed here if you'd like to take them yourself: https://www.emilynagoski.com/come-as-you-are-worksheets Follow us or send your questions and comments to: Twitter: https://twitter.com/SexyBooksPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sexybookspodcast_/ Gmail: SexyBooksPodcast@gmail.com

In this episode, we talk about Jay Northcote’s M/M new adult romance, Like a Lover: “Josh has a plan: get through uni with a good degree and no debts. Focused on his goals, he’s working as an escort to pay his way. He enjoys the no-strings sex and doesn’t have the time or inclination for a relationship. Falling in love definitely isn’t part of the deal—especially not with a client. When Rupert meets Josh in a bar, he’s smitten on sight. He’s never paid for sex before, but when Josh propositions him, he can’t resist. He should have known one night would never be enough. Luckily for him, he has an inheritance to support his addiction to Josh, because his job in IT wouldn’t cover the cost. With each appointment the lines get increasingly blurred. Something is developing between them that feels more like a relationship than a business transaction, but they come from different worlds and to go from client-and-escort to lovers seems impossible. If they want a future together, Josh and Rupert have a lot to overcome.” We also get deep into our early adolescent attraction to Edward Norton, contemporary attitudes about sex work (sex work is real work!), and much more. Other books (and movies) mentioned in this episode: Join us next month when we talk about Practice Makes Perfect by Jay Northcote! We also have a special, non-romance-novel episode coming out later this month where we discuss Come As You Are by Emily Nagoski. We hope you’ll join us for this fun, informative discussion about female sex drives and sexuality. Follow us or send your questions and comments to: Twitter: https://twitter.com/SexyBooksPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sexybookspodcast_/ Gmail: SexyBooksPodcast@gmail.com

In this episode, we talk about Sarina Bowen's M/F new adult romance, The Shameless Hour: "For Bella, the sweet-talking, free-loving, hip-checking student manager of the Harkness men’s hockey team, sex is a second language. She’s used to being fluent where others stutter, and the things people say behind her back don’t (often) bother her. So she can’t understand why her smoking hot downstairs neighbor has so much trouble staying friends after their spontaneous night together. She knows better than to worry about it, but there’s something in those espresso eyes that makes her second guess herself. Rafe is appalled with himself for losing his virginity in a drunken hookup. His strict Catholic upbringing always emphasized loving thy neighbor—but not with a bottle of wine and a box of condoms. The result is an Ivy League bout of awkwardness. But when Bella is leveled by a little bad luck and a downright sinister fraternity stunt, it’s Rafe who is there to pick up the pieces. Bella doesn’t want Rafe's help, and she’s through with men. Too bad the undeniable spark that crackles between the two of them just can't be extinguished." This episode opens with a frank discussion about masturbation, so it's definitely NSFW (though it is safe for WFH!). The vibrator we gush about is the Womanizer Starlet (and the waterproof version that I'm less enamored with is the Womanizer Starlet 2). Other books mentioned in this episode: Join us next month when we talk about Like a Lover by Jay Northcote! Follow us or send your questions and comments to: Twitter: https://twitter.com/SexyBooksPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sexybookspodcast_/ Gmail: SexyBooksPodcast@gmail.com

In this episode, we talk about Sarina Bowen's M/M new adult romance, The Understatement of the Year: "Five years ago, Michael Graham betrayed the only person who ever really knew him. Since then, he’s made an art of hiding his sexuality from everyone. Including himself. So it’s a shock when his past strolls right into the Harkness College locker room, sporting a bag of hockey gear and the same slow smile that had always rendered Graham defenseless. For Graham, there is only one possible reaction: total, debilitating panic. With one loose word, the team’s new left wing could destroy Graham’s life as he knows it. Meanwhile, John Rikker is stuck being the new guy. Again. And it’s worse than usual, because the media has latched onto the story of the only “out” player in Division One hockey. As the satellite trucks line the sidewalk outside the rink, his new teammates are not amused, and one player in particular looks sick every time he enters the room. Rikker didn’t exactly expect a warm welcome from Graham, but the guy won’t even meet his eyes. From the looks of it, his former best friend / boyfriend / whatever isn’t doing so well. Either the two loneliest guys on the team will self destruct from all the new pressures in their lives, or they can navigate the pain to find a way back to one another." We also talk about romance novel shame, teenage crushes, and sad boy bjs! We shouted out our favorite local romance bookstore, The Ripped Bodice in Culver City (which is still operating by mail during the COVID-19 closures if you would like to support them by ordering a romance novel!). Other books mentioned in this episode: Join us next month when we talk about The Shameless Hour by Sarina Bowen! Follow us or send your questions and comments to: Twitter: https://twitter.com/SexyBooksPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sexybookspodcast_/ Gmail: SexyBooksPodcast@gmail.com

In this episode, we talk about Sarina Bowen's M/F new adult romance, The Year We Fell Down: "She expected to start Harkness College as a varsity ice hockey player. But a serious accident means that Corey Callahan will start school in a wheelchair instead. Across the hall, in the other handicapped-accessible dorm room, lives the too-delicious-to-be real Adam Hartley, another would-be hockey star with his leg broken in two places. He's way out of Corey's league. Also, he's taken. Nevertheless, an unlikely alliance blooms between Corey and Hartley in the "gimp ghetto" of McHerrin Hall. Over tequila, perilously balanced dining hall trays, and video games, the two cope with disappointments that nobody else understands. They're just friends, of course, until one night when things fall apart. Or fall together. All Corey knows is that she's falling. Hard. But will Hartley set aside his trophy girl to love someone as broken as Corey? If he won't, she will need to find the courage to make a life for herself at Harkness -- one which does not revolve around the sport she can no longer play, or the brown-eyed boy who's afraid to love her back." We also talk about why men should consider giving romance a shot, how asking for consent can be hot as hell, and much, much more! Follow us or send your questions and comments to: Twitter: https://twitter.com/SexyBooksPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sexybookspodcast_/ Gmail: SexyBooksPodcast@gmail.com