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 DefinedThe We Read Smut Spice ScaleTop Overall Reads of 20252026 Reading AdjustmentsTop 5 Overall Reads of 2025Hear My Heart by Tay Mo'NaeStreams and Schemes by Rebecca KincaidA Notorious Vow by Joanna ShupeOutdrawn by Deanna GrayAll Superheroes Need Photo Ops by Elizabeth StephensTop 5 Audiobooks of 2025They Call Him NAS by KC MillsYours for Now by Leonor SolizLilith by Alexandria HousePlus Size Player by Danielle AllenThe MurderBot Diaries by Martha WellsTop 5 Spiciest Reads of 2025Intrigued by Danger by Endiya CarterDon't Run by SHONYou Hide I'll Seek by ML BashHuntsman by Naima SimoneToxic by Kenya Goree-BellOther Books Mentioned:Guava Flavored Lies by J. J. AriasMentioned Episodes: Tay Mo'Nae  Naima SimoneCarla is ReadingAlexandria HouseWeekend Reader Elizabeth Stephens Leonor SolizSarah in Wanderland Unsuccessful Book Club Support the showJoin the Paid Substack Community Want early access to next week's episode, entry into our private Discord server, two monthly virtual silent book clubs, and a free monthly e-book? Head over to our Substack and join the paid community to get closer to the text and support this sponsor-free show. Connect with Alesia:StorygraphInstagramThis podcast was produced by Galati Media.Proud member of the Feminist Podcasters Collective.