Are you in the mood for something steamy to read? No judgment, promise! Below, we’ve curated a list of books that go from just a slight sprinkling of spice to the whole pepper pot. Hopefully, one (or more) will catch your interest and quench your thirst — for plot, of course.
The Priory of the Orange Tree/A Day of Fallen Night by Samantha Shannon
This duology centers on several sets of characters across two different timelines. Throughout both tales, the main characters (as well as several surrounding sets) all rank neatly above the regular YA 16- to 18-year-old age range we see so regularly. The second book in the duology has a bit more spice than the first, but both are worth the read if you’re looking to settle in for a long adventure with compelling characters.
Kate Daniels series by Ilona Andrews
Be forewarned: This is a slow burn. However, if you’re alright with that, then be prepared for ten books of sass, urban magic in a post-apocalyptic Atlanta, Georgia, and a wide cast of mostly adults who are all powerful, capable, and very, very attractive.
Resisting the Boss: Mid-Life Love by Whitney G.
Our leading lady in this one begins on top. Somewhat. Her work life is great, her love life was great…until she realizes that she’s been cheated on. With her own best friend, to top it off. Now, Claire Gracen has to somehow pick up the shambles of her life by remaking everything: new friends, a new job, and perhaps even a new partner.
Big Swiss by Jen Beagin
This one is admittedly a bit of a reach, but it holds potential. Our heroine, Greta, is in a bit of a pit with her life and work. She transcribes therapy sessions for a sex coach, and it is from there that she quickly becomes enthralled and entangled with his newest client. Her life only swerves outwards from there as she meets the woman (whom she calls Big Swiss) in the real world and continues to build a relationship from there.
Succubus Blues by Richelle Mead
Bring out the demons! Our protagonist in this tale is a succubus, which means most men are attracted to her just by being around her. And of course, that’s alright for her, but there’s one man who she just won’t dare to cross that line with. Unfortunately, this man just happens to be someone she works around. To add mayhem to the devilry, something foul and dark is wreaking havoc across the demon underground in Seattle, and Georgina’s life is about to go even more topsy-turvy before it gets easier again.
Ice Planet Barbarians by Ruby Dixon
Need a short, quick read to get you in *ahem* a particular mood? Look no further than Ruby Dixon’s Ice Planet Barbarians, in which our female protagonist is abducted and left abandoned on an icy planet…and she’s only met one native inhabitant.
Hopefully, there’s a tale amongst the ones above that caught your eye! Or, put another way, successfully seduced you? Grabbed you by the neck just so? Regardless of the specifics, just be certain to keep some water near you. Or milk. Or bread. Something to beat out the spice. And, above all, remember to be safe and have fun!
Looking forward to some fresh spice in this brand-new year? Click here!
Do not forget your fan and iced drink with these steamy recommendations found only on Bookstr’s Bookshop shelf!
