Perhaps you were one of the tens of millions of readers who devoured the Fifty Shades trilogy. Or maybe you enjoyed the first movie in the series and are looking forward to the Fifty Shades Darker release in theaters this month. Or possibly, you didn't read the books or see the movies, but you love a sexy, dirty tale and it's February and cold and the world seems to have gone mad so hey, why the hell not.

Have I got some recommendations for you. But first, a word about these books. They're all scorching hot. Some are lengthy series, while others are quick hits. There's something here for everyone. But let's be clear about what these books aren't: They're not porn. They're not fluff. And they're not antiwoman.

No, these books celebrate strong heroines seeking their own pleasure on their own terms. Some end in a traditionally happy way, while others end happily at the end of a great night of sex. Orgasms abound. So does self-discovery. So get out your ereader and your credit card and be prepared to one-click these gems.

And if you're the kind of reader who says, oh, I never read romance or erotica, then try something new. The genres are a wonderful antidote to reality. And it is Valentine's Day this month, after all. I can think of no better, no kinder gift to yourself than reading about love — and lust.

Make Me by Beth Kery

Make Me [3] by Beth Kery

I am personally a fan of the serial novel, which was in part why Fifty Shades was so intriguing to me. I love reading about one couple over the course of several books. Beth Kery is the absolute master of this kind of serial tale. Her Make Me series, released in eight episodes in 2016, is about newspaper reporter Harper and enigmatic billionaire Jacob and the twists and turns of their long relationship. This story is especially recommended to the readers who enjoyed Fifty Shades' BDSM scenes — Kery's depiction of BDSM in her book is sensual and smart. All eight episodes will be available as one ebook and paperback on Feb. 7.

Best Women's Erotica, Vol. 1 by Various Authors

Best Women's Erotica, Vol. 1 [4] by Various Authors

Sometimes, you don't have time to read a whole book. Or maybe you're not sure whether erotica is really your thing. This anthology of 22 short, sexy stories is the perfect starter pack for erotica newbies and seasoned readers alike. There are pairings of all sorts between these pages. Among my favorites: Flying Solo by Rachel Kramer Bussel, who writes about a particularly hot open marriage, and The Altar of Lamented Toys, a poignant and bittersweet dystopian tale by Jessica Taylor. A bonus: because these stories are so short, they are perfect for reading aloud to your partner in bed.

Liberating Lacey by Anne Calhoun

Liberating Lacey [5] by Anne Calhoun

The best romance novels often highlight class differences, usually with a rich man and a poor woman. Liberating Lacey turns that trope on its head; the heroine, Lacey, is a wealthy businesswoman. Hunter is a cop. And while their sex is scorching (yes, there are handcuffs), the real joy of this book is how each navigates their differences as they fall in love.

The Dirty Secret by Kira Gold

The Dirty Secret [6] by Kira Gold

If you enjoy a gorgeous setting and interesting plot with your sexytimes, check out this novel. Set in Vermont, it's about an interior designer and an architect. Vessa and Killian partner on a home project — and if you're thinking along the lines of a home-improvement show, you're way off. These two create magic with their designs and their bodies. Gold's sensual details add to the rich story, and the love and emotion between the characters is palpable.

Prime Minister by Ainsley Booth

Prime Minister [7] by Ainsley Booth

Perhaps you have noticed that the prime minister of Canada, Justin Trudeau, is handsome [8]. Perhaps you've had fleeting thoughts about said prime minister. Perhaps you've wondered: why hasn't anyone used him as the basis of a sexy character in a novel? (That's just me? Oh. Sorry). Written by Ainsley Booth, it's about a young Canadian PM named Gavin who has a predilection for BDSM. He meets Ellie, his young, whip-smart intern. While in the wrong literary hands this could be creepy, Booth treats their love story with humor, respect, and grace — all while rounding it out with deliciously kinky scenes.

The Story Series by Tamara Lush

The Story Series [9] by Tamara Lush

Yes, I'm recommending my own series, especially for readers who like a good billionaire trope in the vein of Fifty Shades. The heroine, Emma, is a bookstore owner and erotica writer. She meets Caleb, a wealthy real estate developer, at a literary event called Story Brothel. Caleb pays Emma to read him a story, and they embark on a tumultuous relationship. The story follows the couple through courtship, marriage, an unusual separation, and pregnancy. Initially released as a serial, it's available in one ebook and paperback.