6 Steamy Reads to Binge on Before the Release of Fifty Shades Darker

Make Me 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

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

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

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

Perhaps you have noticed that the prime minister of Canada, Justin Trudeau, is handsome. 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

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.