50+ Erotica Books & Novels (Women's Erotica, Short Stories & Free)

Introduction of Erotica Series and Novels

Humans have always been fascinated by taboo subjects. Sex, is no doubt one of the greatest desires that are not openly discussed in society. Like other forms of fiction, erotic novels provide an escape from reality, but they also add more spices by delving into areas of sexuality that can satisfy your "inner madness". A study in The Journal of Sex Research discovered something pretty interesting: Women who read romance or erotic novels are getting busy with their partners a whopping 74% more often than those who don't crack open those steamy books.

So, are you ready to dive into a world of passion, desire, and seduction? Look no further than our comprehensive guide to the top erotica books, novels, and short stories that will leave you breathless. Explore the hottest reads in the genre with our handpicked selection - from steamy romance to forbidden desires - this list has got you covered.

Top 20 Best Erotica Series & Books

Top 10 Erotica Series

1. Bared to You (Crossfire, #1), Reflected in You (Crossfire, #2), Entwined with You (Crossfire, #3) by Sylvia Day

Sylvia Day's Crossfire series, a blend of romance and erotica, began with Bared to You in 2012. The series delves into the passionate and tumultuous relationship between Eva and Gideon. As they navigate their intense connection, filled with desire and dark pasts, each book unveils layers of love, obsession, and the power of surrender.

2. Fifty Shades of Grey (Fifty Shades, #1-3) by E.L. James

E.L. James' groundbreaking Fifty Shades trilogy, first published in 2005, is a captivating mix of romance, erotica, and BDSM themes. The trilogy follows the intense relationship between Anastasia Steele and Christian Grey, exploring their desires, secrets, and challenges in Fifty Shades of Grey, Fifty Shades Darker, and Fifty Shades Freed.

3. Gabriel's Inferno (Gabriel's Inferno, #1), Gabriel's Rapture (Gabriel's Inferno, #2), Gabriel's Redemption ((Gabriel's Inferno, #3), Gabriel's Promise (Gabriel's Inferno, #2) by Sylvain Reynard

Sylvain Reynard's bestselling erotic romance series, beginning in 2011, follows the magnetic Professor Gabriel Emerson and his student-turned-wife, Julia, in a haunting tale of salvation and sensual awakening. Four novels, Gabriel's Inferno, Gabriel's Rapture, Gabriel's Redemption, and Gabriel's Promise, deliver an unforgettable journey of sin, seduction, forbidden love, and redemption.

4. The Siren (The Original Sinners, #1), The Angel (The Original Sinners, #2), The Prince (The Original Sinners, #3), The Mistress (The Original Sinners, #4) by Tiffany Reisz

Tiffany Reisz's series The Original Sinners, starting in 2012, delves into the world of Nora Sutherlin, a world-famous erotica writer, but aslo a dominatrix, and the complex relationships with the men in her life. With elements of erotica and BDSM, this series explores themes of obsession, fear, addiction, and undeniable need in a dark and intense narrative.

5. Beautiful Bastard (Beautiful Bastard, #1), Beautiful Stranger (Beautiful Bastard, #2), Beautiful Player (Beautiful Bastard, #3) by Christina Lauren

Christina Lauren's series, first published in 2013, is a contemporary erotica with a twist. While it features the familiar trope of a powerful man and a sweet woman, it stands out with its strong, empowered characters and friendships filled with humor and honesty. The series showcases mind-blowing sexual encounters and follows the characters' growth and development, leaving readers both sad and content.

6. This Man (This Man, #1), Beneath This Man (This Man, #2), This Man Confessed (This Man, #3) by Jodi Ellen Malpas

Jodi Ellen Malpas's This Man series, starting in 2012, is a blend of contemporary romance and erotica. The story follows Ava O'Shea, an interior designer, and Jesse Ward, a charismatic playboy with a penchant for pleasure. Their relationship becomes intense and tumultuous as Jesse refuses to let Ava go, leading to a passionate and captivating tale of love and desire.

7. The Sleeping Beauty Trilogy by Anne Rice

Anne Rice's 1983 fantasy/erotica series, written as A.N. Roquelaure, reimagines Sleeping Beauty's tale. The Prince awakens Beauty not with a kiss, but with sexual initiation, leading to her complete enslavement. This pioneering trilogy delves into the forbidden aspects of passion, offering a doorway into the hidden regions of the psyche and heart.

8. In Flight (Up in the Air, #1), Mile High (Up in the Air, #2), Grounded (Up in the Air, #3) by R.K. Lilley

R.K. Lilley's series Up in the Air, starting in 2012, combines erotica, romance, and BDSM. It follows flight attendant Bianca and billionaire hotel owner James, both with their demons, as they are drawn to each other, particularly due to their shared sexual predilections. The series features a strong heroine, a swoon-worthy hero, and steamy sex scenes, making it a joy to read.

9. Captive in the Dark (The Dark Duet, #1), Seduced in the Dark (The Dark Duet, #2) by C.J. Roberts

C.J. Roberts' series The Dark Duet, starting in 2011, delves into dark romance and BDSM themes. Livvie and Caleb, two broken individuals, are at the heart of this twisted tale. As they navigate their tumultuous relationship, they find unexpected absolution in each other. Roberts' skillful storytelling allows readers to deeply understand the characters, their flaws, and the complexities of their bond.

10. Ice Planet Barbarians (series) by Ruby Dixon

Ruby Dixon's series, first published in 2015, combines science fiction, fantasy, and erotica. The series features over twenty books set on the ice planet Not-Hoth, where human women are stranded after a crash and encounter the Sakh, a tribe of large, blue-skinned aliens. The stories revolve around the women finding love and building relationships with the aliens.

Top 10 Erotica Books

1. Wicked Ties by Shayla Black

Originally published in 2007, Shayla Black's Wicked Ties kicks off the Wicked Lovers series, blending romance, erotica, and BDSM themes. Morgan, a cable show host, interviews Jack, a Dom and bodyguard, unaware of his ulterior motives. Their encounter leads to a journey of emotional exploration and sexual awakening as Jack becomes Morgan's protector and guides her into submission.

2. Rush by Maya Banks

Maya Banks's 2013 novel Rush, the first in the Breathless trilogy, delves into romance, erotica, and BDSM genres. Gabe Hamilton, captivated by Mia Crestwell, his best friend's now-grown sister, embarks on a forbidden affair. Their intense and obsessive relationship challenges them to explore their deepest desires and secrets, risking exposure and unexpected betrayals.

3. Bound by Lorelei James

Published in 2014, Lorelei James's Bound falls under romance and BDSM genres. Graphic designer Amery Hardwick's life in Denver takes an unexpected turn when she meets Ronin Black, owner of a self-defense dojo. Their intense and erotic relationship pushes Amery's boundaries, but as she becomes addicted to the pleasure, she begins to question Ronin's secrets and her trust in him.

4. Outlander by Diana Gabaldon

Published in 1991, Diana Gabaldon's Outlander combines historical romance and fantasy. The novel follows Claire Randall, a British combat nurse from 1945, who is mysteriously transported to 1743 Scotland. Marooned in a dangerous time, Claire's fate becomes intertwined with Jamie Fraser, a young Scottish warrior, leading to a compelling story of passion and adventure.

5. Dirty by Megan Hart

Published in 2007, Megan Hart's Dirty delves into romance, erotica, and BDSM. The story follows Elle Kavanaugh, a woman who has always defined herself by her professional success and avoided intimacy. However, her encounter with Dan Stewart changes everything, sparking desires she's never felt before. Now, she must confront her past and reevaluate her views on intimacy, trust, and redemption.

6.Delta of Venus by Anais Nin

Anais Nin's Delta of Venus, published in 1977, stands as a seminal work in modern female erotica. This collection of stories presents a lush and provocative exploration of desire and talent in various settings, from Paris to opium dens in Peru. Nin's elegant prose and inventive narratives offer readers a captivating journey into the realm of erotic imagination.

7. Vox by Nicholson Baker

Published in 1992, Nicholson Baker's Vox is an erotic novel that explores a seductive encounter between two strangers who connect on a telephone chat line. Their conversation, initially casual, evolves into an intimate and captivating exchange that challenges conventional ideas of romance and erotica. Baker's writing delves into the complexities of desire and human connection, offering a provocative and compelling read.

8. Grey by E. L. James

Published in 2015, Grey by E. L. James offers a fresh and intensified perspective on the love story from the world of Fifty Shades. This novel revisits the relationship between Christian Grey and Anastasia Steele, but this time, it is narrated from Christian's point of view. Readers gain insight into Christian's thoughts, reflections, and dreams, providing a fresh take on the captivating story that has enthralled millions worldwide.

9. Tampa by Alissa Nutting

Published in 2013, Tampa is a daring exploration of psychological horror and erotica. Celeste Price, gorgeous and affluent, begins teaching in suburban Tampa. However, her true focus is on seducing her 14-year-old students. Nutting's novel delves into the dark desires of its protagonist, offering a satirical yet unsettling narrative filled with graphic sexuality and black humor.

10. Story of O by Pauline Réage

Story of O by Pauline Réage, first published in 1954, is a classic work of erotica that follows a young French woman known as 'O' who is taken by her lover to a secret society where she must fulfill their sexual fantasies. The novel explores themes of power, submission, and the limits of desire, offering a provocative and daring look at human sexuality.

Top 10 Best Women's Erotica

1. Beauty's Release by A. N. Roquelaure

Beauty's Release by A. N. Roquelaure, published in 1985, is the third installment of The Sleeping Beauty fantasy erotica series. The book follows Princess Beauty, Prince Tristan, and Prince Laurant as they are kidnapped and taken to a foreign land. Filled with erotica and intricate character development, the story offers unexpected twists and a departure from traditional happily-ever-after narratives.

2. Knight by Kristen Ashley

The romance erotica novel Knight by Kristen Ashley, published in 2012, is the first book in The Unfinished Heroes Series. The story revolves around Anya Gage, who is captivated by Knight Sebring, a mysterious and influential man. Their relationship, filled with intensity and passion, forces them to confront their pasts and strive for a future together.

3. Satan's Affair by H. D. Carlton

Satan's Affair by H. D. Carlton, published in 2021, explores the boundaries of dark romance, horror, and erotica. The protagonist, Sibby, works at a Halloween-themed carnival, where she uses her unique ability to identify and eliminate evil individuals, supported by her five henchmen with whom she shares a polyamorous relationship, offering a refreshing twist on the traditional killer narrative.

4. Burn by Maya Banks 

Maya Banks' Burn, published in 2013, successfully blends romance and BDSM themes. The story follows Ash McIntyre, who feels disconnected from his happily in-love friends until he meets Josie, an artist and submissive, who captivates him like no other. Their relationship challenges them both, leading to a steamy and intense love story that showcases Banks' mastery of erotic romance.

5. Bought by Willow Winters and Lauren Landish

Bought by Willow Winters and Lauren Landish (2016) introduces Lucian, a workaholic billionaire seeking a distraction, and Dahlia, a survivor of abuse who enters a billionaire sex club's auction. The authors' blend of raw emotion and sensuality navigates the complexities of trust and desire in this dark romance/BDSM tale.

6. Addicted by Zane

Zane's Addicted (1998) is a romance erotica novel that delves into the life of Zoe, a successful businesswoman grappling with a compulsive addiction to sex that jeopardizes her marriage, career, and sanity. As she seeks help and reveals her torrid tale, Zoe navigates a dangerous path of desire, guilt, and self-discovery, facing the consequences of her actions head-on.

7. My Dad's Best Friend by Katee Robert

My Dad's Best Friend by Katee Robert, a 2020 romance erotica novel, follows Blake who has long desired her father's best friend, Jonas. Trapped together during a storm, their long-held attraction boils over into a passionate weekend. Robert's writing is steamy and immersive, delivering a tale of forbidden desire with palpable chemistry.

8. Mystery Man by Kristen Ashley

Mystery Man by Kristen Ashley, published in 2011, is a romance erotica novel that follows Gwendolyn Kidd as she meets a mysterious man, Hawk, and begins a relationship with him despite knowing little about him. The story explores their developing connection as Gwen hopes for something more with her enigmatic lover.

9. Big Bad Wolf by Jenika Snow

Big Bad Wolf by Jenika Snow, published in 2021, is a paranormal romance erotica novel that follows American Mikalina who, feeling lost, rents a cottage in Romania where she crosses paths with Ren, a 300-year-old wolf shifter who has finally found his mate after centuries of searching. The story explores their intense connection and the challenges they face in their newfound relationship.

10. The Neighbor War: A Romantic Comedy by Katie Bailey

The Neighbor War by Katie Bailey, published in 2021, is a delightful romantic comedy that follows Courtney and Aiden, whose love-hate relationship is brought to life through witty banter and dual first-person narration. Bailey's skill in character development shines, particularly with Aiden's transformation, making this enemies-to-lovers tale a must-read for fans of the genre.

Top 10 Short Erotica Stories

1. Taming the Beast by Evangeline Anderson

Taming the Beast by Evangeline Anderson, published in 2009, is a paranormal romance erotica short story. It follows Gisella Trelain, who is sold into prostitution and ends up chained in a dungeon with Tristan, a man cursed to turn into a beast. To break the curse, Gisella must submit to Tristan's savage desires, risking her life to tame the beast.

2. Taylor's Unexpected Daddy (Lost River Littles) by Stella Moore

Taylor's Unexpected Daddy by Stella Moore, published in 2023, is a romance/erotica/BDSM short story that follows Taylor Dawson, a woman whose life is in disarray. When her best friend's older brother offers her a life-changing proposition, Taylor finds herself embarking on a journey that could transform her life and everyone around her.

3. Thick by Alexa Riley

Thick by Alexa Riley is a romance erotica short story published in 2019. When Teeny moves into a new place, she's intrigued by her large and attractive neighbor, Bull. Despite his initial reluctance, Bull can't resist Teeny's charm and they embark on a passionate journey, challenging their perceptions of love and desire.

4. On the Offensive by Cara Dee

On the Offensive by Cara Dee, first published in 2013, is a sizzling romance erotica short story that explores the tense relationship between step-siblings Peyton and Zack. Despite their mutual animosity, a holiday cabin stay forces them into close proximity to each other, leading to unexpected desires and steamy encounters.

5. Abandoned on His Mountain (Palate Teasers) by Dani Wyatt

Abandoned on His Mountain by Dani Wyatt, published in 2023, is a romance erotica short story about Marin, raised by a tyrant grandfather, who finds herself abandoned on a mountain. Davis, a man living there, discovers her and decides to keep her as his own. They both have inner demons but find solace and love in each other's arms.

6. Unwanted by Alex Fox

In Alex Fox's erotica romance short story Unwanted, Patricia finds herself deeply in love with Xane, who shows no interest in her despite her years of unwavering devotion and servitude. She ultimately decides to move on, but Xane refuses to let her go, leading to a tumultuous and passionate relationship.

7. Slaying Goliath by CompulsiveWriter

Slaying Goliath by CompulsiveWriter, published in 2022, is a romance erotica short story that follows Belinda as she is intrigued by the mysterious Josh and his enigmatic presence. Despite his flaws, she finds him captivating, but as their relationship deepens, she must confront whether she is willing to risk everything for him without losing herself in the process.

8. Twice Loved by VAddison

Twice Loved by VAddison is a romance erotica novel that follows friends Olivia and Mason, living together in the mountains. When they rescue a man in need, they discover a connection with him that fills the gaps in their own relationship. However, as the man's identity is revealed, they must confront the possibility that their newfound connection could tear them apart.

9. A Kinky Christmas (AKC Book 1) by Artemis Watson

A Kinky Christmas by Artemis Watson, published in 2023, follows Sarah and her friends as they embark on a holiday adventure where they delve into their deepest fantasies. Sarah is torn between her bad-boy ex and his alluring brother, her best friend. As they explore their desires, the group faces steamy and wild encounters, testing their boundaries and passions.

10. Sinful Angel by VAddison

Sinful Angel, a romance erotic short story by VAddison, follows high-school sweethearts Madison and Luke who reunite after their divorce, discovering new depths to their relationship. Luke finds Madison's previously unknown wicked side intriguing. Despite the challenges of their past, they must decide if they can reconcile their desires and move forward together.

Top 10 Free Erotica Novels

1. The New Girl by Unscratched14

The New Girl by Unscratched14 is a romance erotica novel that tells the story of Katie, a 19-year-old virgin who is eager to lose her virginity but wants it to be with someone who cares about her. After a failed attempt with Jay, a guy she liked, Katie's self-esteem takes a hit, bringing back childhood anxieties about her shyness.

2. The Drifter in Disguise by Th3An0nym0u50n3

The Drifter in Disguise, a romance erotica novel by Th3An0nym0u50n3 follows Richard and Mary, a couple living on a farm, who pick up a mysterious drifter. Unbeknownst to them, the drifter is an escaped prisoner with a secret plan and dark secrets that will soon test Richard and Mary's relationship.

3. Extraterrestrial Exploration by B. Shock

Extraterrestrial Exploration, a SciFi erotica novel by B. Shock, delves into the erotic encounters of a female Xenobiologist who, after crash landing on an alien planet, is kidnapped by two intriguing aliens. Despite their initial non-hostile behavior, their exploratory touches awaken her sexual desires. As a scientist, she can't resist the opportunity to intimately study a new alien species.

4. My Girl by Hailey Marie

My Girl, written by Hailey Marie, is a romance erotica novel centered around Kat. When she visits her brother's new apartment, Kat is surprised to run into Caleb, her brother's bad-boy best friend. With tattoos and a playboy attitude, Caleb was once Kat's crush, and seeing him again reignites old feelings. Can she resist the allure of a boy like Caleb?

5. The Captain's Treasure by B. Shock

The Captain's Treasure by B. Shock is a fantasy erotica novel about a noble girl who, while running away from home, finds herself indebted to a pirate captain. To pay off her debt, she agrees to satisfy his dark desires, only to discover that he wants more than just one night. As she delves deeper, she uncovers the captain's mysterious secret.

6. Allure by Lillies

Allure by Lillies is a scintillating collection of erotica and BDSM tales that captivate with their steamy scenes. From hot law firm interns to sexy policemen and werewolf pack members, these stories feature well-developed characters and engaging plots that promise to keep readers enthralled and breathless from start to finish.

7. Bad Wolves Book Two - Byron by Rinnie

Bad Wolves Book Two - Byron by Rinnie is a paranormal erotica novel that tells the story of a 21-year-old pastor's daughter and a 35-year-old Alpha of a rogue wolf pack. When they meet, the Alpha realizes she is his fated mate and is determined to break her free from the constraints of her life and make her his completely.

8. Ink (The Celtic Reapers) by Roanna Hinks

Ink (The Celtic Reapers) by Roanna Hinks is a romance erotica novel following Lyla, the daughter of a Celtic Reapers Motorcycle Club member. She's caught the eye of Ink, the club's VP, but they've both kept their feelings hidden. When Ink rescues Lyla one night, will they finally admit their long-held desires?

9. Half of My Heart by Iya Hart

Half of My Heart by Iya Hart delves into dark romance erotica as Anya Renée navigates the fallout of her relationship with Blake Rossi. After their breakup, Anya finds solace in her intriguing tattooed professor, leading to a passionate and obsessive entanglement. However, their forbidden affair takes a tumultuous turn as the consequences of their actions unfold.

10.The Alpha's Pet by Diamondlee

The Alpha's Pet" by Diamondlee explores paranormal romance erotica as Elarian Jordan, betrayed by her mate and best friend, becomes entwined with Aeros Hawthorne, a ruthless Alpha twice her age. Their steamy one-night stand leads to a no-strings-attached arrangement where she becomes his pet, drawn by an insatiable lust and a desire to avoid love.

Hot Discussions about Erotica Books & Novels

Q: What are the "must-read" erotica books?

A: "Must-read" erotica books often vary depending on personal preferences, but several titles are frequently recommended for their captivating storytelling and steamy scenes. Classics like Delta of Venus by Anaïs Nin and Story of O by Pauline Réage are lauded for their exploration of taboo desires and intricate narratives. Modern works like Fifty Shades Series by E.L. James and The Submissive Trilogy by Tara Sue Me offer contemporary twists on BDSM and power dynamics. Bared to You by Sylvia Day and Beautiful Bastard by Christina Lauren are also popular for their engaging plots and passionate encounters.

Q: What great works of literature are noteworthy for their eroticism?

A: Several classic works of literature are celebrated for their exploration of erotic themes with depth and sophistication. D.H. Lawrence's "Lady Chatterley's Lover" is renowned for its explicit depiction of a passionate affair, touching on class, desire, and freedom. Henry Miller's "Tropic of Cancer" boldly explores his sexual experiences in Paris. Vladimir Nabokov's "Lolita" is a controversial yet influential work that delves into the taboo subject of a man's obsession with a young girl. Philip Roth's "Portnoy's Complaint" is a satirical novel that explores the protagonist's sexual escapades and psychological struggles. The works of Marquis de Sade, such as "Justine" and "The 120 Days of Sodom," are infamous for their extreme and often disturbing exploration of sexuality, power, and violence.

Q: Why do people choose to read erotica over books that carry great value to society?

A: People may choose to read erotica for a variety of reasons, and these reasons can differ from person to person. For some, erotica provides a form of escapism, offering a break from the stresses and challenges of daily life. It can be a way to explore fantasies and desires in a safe and private setting, allowing readers to delve into aspects of human sexuality that they may not otherwise encounter. Additionally, erotica can be a source of entertainment and pleasure, offering a different kind of emotional and sensory experience than more intellectually or socially focused literature.

Top 10 Authors of Erotica Novels

Sylvia Day

Sylvia is a prolific author, known for her bestselling novels such as Black Lace Quickies 7, Bared to You, and A Passion for Him. Her work is characterized by compelling characters and steamy romance, making her one of the most successful authors in the romance and erotica genres.

Maya Banks

Maya is an American author with over fifty novels to her name, including Undone by Her Tender Touch, Sweet Surrender, and For Her Pleasure. Her books span various subgenres of romance, from erotic romance to romantic suspense, captivating readers with her engaging storytelling.

Anna Lores

Anna is a multi-published author known for her spicy contemporary and paranormal romance novels. Works like Cursed to Love, Ella's Triple Pleasure, and One Night of Love showcase her talent for creating captivating stories filled with passion and intrigue.

E. L. James

E. L. James gained international fame with her Fifty Shades series, including Fifty Shades of Grey, Fifty Shades Darker, and Fifty Shades Freed. Her books, originally based on Twilight fan fiction, became a cultural phenomenon, introducing many readers to the world of erotic romance.

Kresley Cole

Kresley is the author of the popular Immortals After Dark paranormal series and several award-winning historical romances. Her books, like A Hunger Like No Other and Wicked Deeds on a Winter's Night, are known for their captivating blend of romance, erotica, and fantasy.

Shayla Black

Shayla is a bestselling author known for her contemporary, erotic, paranormal, and historical romances. Works such as Wicked Ties, Decadent, and Mine to Hold showcase her ability to create sizzling romances that keep readers coming back for more.

Tiffany Reisz

Tiffany is a bestselling author known for her Original Sinners series and other works like The Godwicks and The Red."Her novels often explore complex relationships and themes, blending erotica with suspense and romance.

Anne Rice

Anne was an iconic author known for her gothic fiction, erotic literature, and The Vampire Chronicles, including Interview with the Vampire. Other notable books include The Tale of the Body Thief and The Claiming of Sleeping Beauty. Her works often delved into themes of love, death, immortality, and the human condition.

Lorelei James

Lorelei is a bestselling author known for her erotic romances set in the modern-day Wild West. Her Mastered series and books like Running with the Devil, Rode Hard, and One Night Rodeo display her talent for blending romance with captivating storytelling.

Diana Gabaldon

Diana is best known for her Outlander series, which merges multiple genres including historical fiction, romance, erotica, and fantasy. Her books, including Highland- Saga and The Outlandish Companion have captivated readers with their rich storytelling and compelling characters.

Top Erotica Novels on GoodNovel

GoodNovel is an online platform that offers a wide selection of novels across various genres where a diverse range of stories written by both established authors and emerging writers from around the world can be found here. Discover more Erotica novels now in GoodNovel!

Conclusion

Exploring the world of erotica literature can be a thrilling adventure for readers looking to indulge in their fantasies and desires. Whether you prefer women's erotica, short stories, or novels that delve into the depths of passion and pleasure, there is a wide array of options to choose from in this genre. From bestselling novels that have captivated audiences worldwide to tantalizing series that will keep you coming back for more, erotica literature offers something for everyone who enjoys exploring the steamier side of fiction.