We all have our chosen media for horny consumption. For some people, it’s more visual, like porn (or sex scenes in Bridgerton), and for others, it’s an auditory experience like audio erotica. But for the literary girlies, the best smut comes in romance novels.
People look at romance novels and assume they’re filled with cliches, cheesy storylines, and the same tired sex scenes (think, “throbbing members”) — but it’s so much more. “Romance is a large genre and can fit so many smaller tropes and genres within it like fantasy romance, historical romance … it just encompasses so much so it’s much larger than a lot of people realize,” Saige Francis, an associate managing editor at Penguin Random House, tells Betches. “And it can also have amazing stories, arcs, and character development.”
And within those storylines lie some of the filthiest, sexiest, lip-biting sex scenes you could ever imagine. And because it’s surrounded by great writing that has taken the time to fully develop characters and give you a reason to care about them getting together, it’s that much better. “It just makes you feel good,” Saige says. “You get butterflies in your stomach.”
So if you’re someone who likes your sex with a side of really-great-plot, here are some of the horniest romance books you need in your life. I just recommend reading these in private.
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That Time I Got Drunk And Saved A Demon By Kimberly Lemming
If you’re more of a fantasy girlie, don’t worry; we’ve got you. There are witches, demons, alcohol, and a lot of hot, fantasy sex. What more could you ask for?
Out on a Limb By Hannah Bowen Young
Don’t we all wish that one-night stands could actually lead to finding the loves of our lives (rather than mistakes we’ll beat ourselves up about)? Well, your fantasies can come true with this one. We love this for the hot sex scenes and the great disability representation.
Fearless By Tia Louise
If you’re looking for sexual tension, action, and shower sex, this is the book for you. It centers around protection and some extreme chemistry.
Vows Of A Mobster By Eva Winners
If age-gap romances are your thing, then this is the book for you. Plus, on top of that, there’s also a sexy mafia backstory, a murder mystery, a little bit of violence, and a whole lot of sex.
The Crossfire Series By Sylvia Day
Anyone who enjoys erotica with a lot of romance sprinkled on top will thoroughly enjoy the Crossfire series. You get to follow the extremely emotional and romantic journey between the main characters, Eva and Gideon, and watch them grow with each book. Trust me, you’re gonna want to get the collection set.
Styx By Layla Frost
Lovers of the slow burn, unite! Not only does this book feature a fiercely independent lead who meets a hunky, protective guy, but it’s also full of surprising twists and turns after each page. Oh, and did I mention just how steamy the scenes between the overly complicated main characters are?
Puck One Night Stands By Emma Foxx
If you’re into the idea of three super hot guys fighting over your affections (and the chance to give you a night of your dreams), then this one is definitely for you. It’s funny and sarcastic, and I think we can all see ourselves in a lead who’s an introverted romance writer.
Getting His Game Back By Gia de Cadenet
There are so many different layers that add to this romance: healing your past wounds, getting over breakups, dealing with interracial relationships, and just learning to trust someone again. And even though this book is seriously sweet, it gets very, very steamy as well.
The Roommate Risk By Talia Hibbert
Talia Hibbert is that girl when it comes to steamy romance novels, and this one is no exception. If you want a book where there’s longing, emotional (and sexual) edging, and trying not to go after someone you really shouldn’t, then this is the holy grail. The best type of sex scene is when you finally get someone you’ve been waiting years to have.
Before I Let You Go By Kennedy Ryan
Have you ever seen a couple splitting up and just know how much they still want each other? This book touches on getting back to yourself, learning when to let go, and how to heal a marriage. But of course, along with all the emotional ups and downs, the sex is illicit… which makes it that much hotter.
