My Top Reads & Audiobooks of 2025 + What is Smut?

Wow! Season Two has been incredible, and we're closing it out with a deep dive into the core question of this podcast: What is smut, exactly? I’m breaking down my personal spice rating scale, defining the difference between romance and erotica (hint: it's all about the plot!).

Plus, I’m looking back at my most memorable 2025 reads, sharing my Top 5 Audiobooks, Spiciest Reads, and Overall Favorites, and revealing my terrifying 2026 reading adjustments—including joining a book club!

Episode Key Takeaways: 

• Smut vs. Erotica Defined
• The We Read Smut Spice Scale
• Top Overall Reads of 2025
• 2026 Reading Adjustments

Top 5 Overall Reads of 2025

• Hear My Heart by Tay Mo'Nae
• Streams and Schemes by Rebecca Kincaid
• A Notorious Vow by Joanna Shupe
• Outdrawn by Deanna Gray
• All Superheroes Need Photo Ops by Elizabeth Stephens

Top 5 Audiobooks of 2025

• They Call Him NAS by KC Mills
• Yours for Now by Leonor Soliz
• Lilith by Alexandria House
• Plus Size Player by Danielle Allen
• The MurderBot Diaries by Martha Wells

Top 5 Spiciest Reads of 2025

• Intrigued by Danger by Endiya Carter
• Don't Run by SHON
• You Hide I'll Seek by ML Bash
• Huntsman by Naima Simone
• Toxic by Kenya Goree-Bell

Other Books Mentioned:

Guava Flavored Lies by J. J. Arias

Mentioned Episodes: 

Tay Mo'Nae  

Naima Simone

Carla is Reading

Alexandria House

Weekend Reader 

Elizabeth Stephens 

Leonor Soliz

Sarah in Wanderland 

Unsuccessful Book Club 

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