There’s nothing better than reading a book and reaching a spicy scene — whether you were expecting to or not.

Unapologetic smut books are gaining steam these days, with more and more readers eagerly flipping through pages of passion, lust, and desire. From erotic literature that's become canon, like “50 Shades of Grey,” to new fantasy tales like “From Blood and Ash,” smutty books are a sexy way to escape. 

But with a whole universe of erotic novels at your disposal, how do you know where to start? Our recommendations include everything from taboo sexuality to LGBTQ books and more. 

What makes a book smutty?

Let’s talk about the word “smut.” It originally meant “soot” or “dirt,” but its current meaning is a little dirtier. It refers to content, usually written, with lots of X-rated language and explicit sex scenes. 

Smut books certainly aren’t shy about their pornographic content. Instead of being plot-heavy with a little steaminess thrown in, these sexy reads really dive into the dirty details. They’re not about to win any literary awards — they’re supposed to be fun, immersive, and of course, masturbation-worthy.

Smut for women, men, and nonbinary folks can also pack emotional punches. While they’re very sexual, these stories also examine their characters' feelings, emotions, and relationships, making them about more than just the spicy scenes. You'll also find all sorts of styles and themes, from fantasy to real-world kink, written by skilled authors like Anne Rice, Sylvia Day, and Diana Gabaldon. Whether you like your stories a bit more romantic or prefer to push the boundaries, there's a book for you.

The 8 best smut books to start with

Romance was the highest-earning genre of fiction in 2022, reaching more than 39 million readers and generating over $1.44 billion in revenue. That means it’s a huge industry — and there are thousands of great reads to choose from.

If you're looking to start your steamy reading journey, these smut books will turn up the heat: 

1. “Gifting Me to His Best Friend” (A Touch of Taboo #2) by Katee Robert 

This spicy story follows the adventures of a wife who becomes a sexy Christmas gift to her husband's best friend during a group vacation. What starts as a one-night stand turns into a more extended experience, challenging their relationships and resulting in some super-hot sex.  

“Gifting Me to His Best Friend” is the second in best-selling author Katee Robert’s “A Touch of Taboo” series. Don't miss it if you have a threesome fantasy. 

2. “It Happened One Summer” (Bellinger Sisters #1) by Tessa Bailey 

Inspired by the famous and hilarious television show “Schitt's Creek,” this funny romance novel follows Piper Bellinger, a fashionable and influential Hollywood It Girl. After a wild party gets her arrested, Piper and her sister are sent to a beach town by their stepfather as punishment. 

In Westport, Piper meets a local man named Brendan and starts seeing him everywhere. Opposites attract, as the saying goes, and she falls for him while simultaneously discovering what there is to love about her new locale. 

“It Happened One Summer” is a fun, easy read that will transport you right into a summer fling. It's Tessa Bailey's first “Bellinger Sisters” novel. 

3. “The Original Sinners” series by Tiffany Reisz 

“The Original Sinners” series by talented author Tiffany Reisz mixes romance with BDSM, queer themes, and Christianity. The first four books, “The Red Years Quartet,” follow dominant priest Nora and her lover, who’s an erotic novelist she can't get enough of. The second four books in the series, “The White Years Quartet,” revolve around the sexual adventures of submissive Eleanor. 

This impressive series of eight novels is celebrated for its adventurous sexual themes, engaging storytelling, and emotionally rich characters. It begins with "The Siren" and includes titles like "The Angel," "The Priest," and "The Virgin." 

4. “The Kiss Quotient” by Helen Hoang  

This novel, the steamiest book in Helen Hoang's “Kiss Quotient” series, follows Stella, a 30-year-old math-loving woman who’s on the autism spectrum. She decides she needs some practice in the bedroom and hires escort Michael Phan for the job, who can't turn her down. 

Stella falls for Michael throughout their sexy lessons, and she can't deny that their partnership is starting to make logical sense. It's fun, funny, and sexy, wrapped in an easy-to-read package.  

5. “Milk Fed” by Melissa Broder 

“Milk Fed” is a funny and erotic exploration of sexual desire. Written by Melissa Broder, acclaimed author of books like “So Sad Today” and “The Pisces,” Milk Fed delves deep into themes of queer identity, self-discovery, and the ties between hunger, sex, and emotions. 

This challenging narrative is a unique pick in the genre of erotic literature that follows Rachel, a young woman suffering from obsessions with food and exercise who ends up taking a detox from her mother. During this detox, Rachel meets Miriam and becomes enamored by her — making for some steamy fantasies. 

6. “A Court of Thorns and Roses” (A Court of Thorns and Roses #1) by Sarah J. Maas

“A Court of Thorns and Roses” (ACOTAR) is a fairy porn series made famous by BookTok. This fantasy love story adds seduction to a magical world of power and sacrifice, following 19-year-old huntress Feyre, who kills a wolf and is dragged into the magical faerie land. 

“A Court of Thorns and Roses,” the first book in the author's series, is renowned for its imaginative world-building, strong characters, and sexy subplots (similar to the work of Kresley Cole). It's a must-read for fans of fantasy-infused romance, as Feyre learns that her dark lover Tamlin isn't actually the beast she thinks he is, and he needs her help. 

7. “A Not So Meet Cute” by Meghan Quinn 

This contemporary romance puts a fun spin on the traditional “meet-cute” dating narrative. It's filled with humor, unexpected turns, and steamy moments, and it's inspired by the classic film “Pretty Woman,” so what's not to love? 

“A Not So Meet Cute” is the story of a woman who agrees to a particular deal with a man — one involving living together, double dates, and pretending to be in love — and accidentally falls for him. It's adorable, hilarious, and seriously spicy all at the same time, thanks to talented author Meghan Quinn. 

8. “From Blood and Ash” (Blood and Ash #1) by Jennifer L. Armentrout 

Jennifer L. Armentrout's book “From Blood and Ash” offers a sensual mix of fantasy and romance. It takes readers into the world of Poppy, a Maiden forbidden from experiencing pleasure, as she longs for more than her kingdom wants for her. The first in the author's “Blood and Ash” book series, this steamy romance book follows the protagonist's journey toward finally getting what she wants.

Explore audio erotica with Quinn 

If you love reading smutty books, you might love listening to audio erotica. This type of porn is ethical, arousing, and an exciting way to explore your sexual needs and desires — alone or with a partner.  

Quinn is an audio erotica app created by women for the world. You’ll find narrated sex stories and playlists that range from vanilla fantasies to kink and bondage.  

To access thousands of audio stories and guided masturbation sessions from skilled creators, download the Quinn app for iOS or Android today.