Fairy smut, spicy reads and sexy books... whatever you want to call it, what was once looked down upon as silly women's literature has grown into a multi billion dollar business.

The rise of genres like Romantasy is seeing legions of women delve into reading like never before, with books once hidden on the back of the shelf book now being turned into huge movies and television shows (looking at you Rivals, 50 Shades Of Grey et al.)

Today we take a look back at romance and erotica for women and why it’s now out of the shadows, and yes, this one's not for little ears.

THE END BITS

Support independent women's media

Check out The Quicky Instagram here

Liked this episode? Listen to these:

The History Of High Heels Did Not Start With Women

I'm A Feminist, But Do I Secretly Wanna Be A Tradwife?

Pucker Up! The Politics & Pleasure Of Red Lipstick

Toxic Femininity: Are Women Trained To Hate Each Other?

Join the Month of MOVE
Get $30 off a Mamamia subscription and get unlimited access to our feel-good exercise app. Head here to get a yearly subscription for just $39.

GET IN TOUCH

Share your story, feedback, or dilemma! Send us a voice note or email us at thequicky@mamamia.com.au

CREDITS

Host: Claire Murphy

With thanks to:

Lilian Kovats, Sales Director Hachette Australia

Tierney Reads

Executive Producer: Taylah Strano

Audio Producers: Tegan Sadler

Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribe

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Rise Of The Spicy Read: Your Mum's Mills & Boon Were Nothing Like This

The Quicky