Research proves smut can boost libido
A list of highly recommended erotic novels!
Research suggests that reading erotica can be effective for improving sexual desire, arousal and satisfaction.
A 2016 study from the University of Groningen found that women who engaged with sexual self-help books and erotic fiction saw meaningful improvements in their sexual wellbeing. Your brain is your largest erogenous zone and erotica engages the imagination, one of our most powerful arousal pathways.
Unlike visual porn, written erotica often creates a more emotionally connected, narrative-based experience. This kind of psychological stimulation is especially effective for people whose desire is more responsive or context-driven.
It’s also low-pressure, private and completely in your control. You can explore fantasies, reduce anxiety and even use it to reconnect with a partner.
Smut can:
Increase Mental Stimulation and Arousal: mental engagement can lead to increased blood flow to the genitals, enhancing physical arousal.
Release Dopamine and Oxytocin: smut can trigger the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and motivation. This release can elevate mood and sexual desire. Oxytocin, known as the "bonding hormone," may be released, allowing for feelings of connection and intimacy.
Enhance Sexual Self-Perception: erotic content can improve body image and sexual confidence, leading to a more positive attitude toward one's own sexuality. This improved self-perception can translate into increased sexual desire and satisfaction.
Provide Novelty and Escapism: smut often introduces novel scenarios and fantasies, which can stimulate the brain's reward system. This novelty can enhance sexual excitement, desire and also creative thinking around sex. Additionally, erotic reading provides an escape from daily stressors, allowing individuals to focus on their sexual fantasies and desires
I asked for smut recommendations, here’s the list!
I did a call out last week for smut submissions and I have compiled the books and authors in one list. Many of these books and authors received dozens of submissions. I haven’t read the majority of these, so please consider this a community recommendation list rather than something that comes from me. At your service!
I’d love to hear your top recommendations, feel free to comment below and I will keep adding to and updating this list.
General:
Fourth Wing, Rebecca Yarros
The Bartered Soul, L.B Benson
Quick Silver, Callie Hart
Virgin River, Robyn Carr
All Fours, Miranda July
The Pisces, Melissa Broder
Deep End, Ali Hazelwood
Pucking Around, Emily Rath
Losers Series, Harley Laroux
Sweet Omega Verse, Kathryn Moon
Tempting Monsters, Kathryn Moon
Birthday Girl, Penelope Douglas
The Ritual, Shantel Tessier
The Salacious Players Club, Sara Cate
Three Nights in Stockholm, Elizabeth Hardy
The Fallen, Gabrielle Sands
Mile High, Liz Tomforde
Windy City Series, Liz Tomforde
Boys of Tommen, Chloe Walsh
Want, Gillian Anderson
Alchemy Series, Elodie Hart
Crimson Ridge Series and Port Macabre, Elliott Rose
A Court if Thorns and Roses Series, Sarah J Maas
Queer smut:
Incision Press, Orlando Silver
Tricky Girls, Holly Thorn
Slug, Megan Milks
Please note there may be more queer smut in the list about - those who submitted these recommendations just specified it was queer!
Authors to look out for:
Jackie Collins
Callie Hart
Harley Laroux
Meghan Quinn
Elise Silver
Lucy Score
Ali Hazlewood
Dani Elise
Emily Henry
Megan Milks
Also try:
Fantasy smut, Faerie Smut
REDDIT - for literally everything
Normal is researching all forms of erotica and how it can impact sex (we might even be exploring a new product…)
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