In the bookish space, readers tend to incorrectly categorize Black stories. It’s important that we understand the differences between genres and subgenres of Black literature. Join us for an great conversation with Aniya, known as the Well Read Pharmacist, as we break down the nuanced world of urban fiction, urban romance, Black contemporary romance, and urban erotica.

Aniya, also known as The Well Read Pharmacist, is a pharmacist and avid reader from New Orleans, Louisiana. She loves escaping into a good book, especially within the romance and thriller genres!

In this episode, we're discussing:

• Urban Fiction vs. Urban Romance: Learn the critical differences between these often-confused genres
• Discover why not all Black books are "urban" and why that matters
• Explore recommended authors across urban fiction, romance, and erotica subgenres
• Understand the importance of reading diverse Black literature
• Get insider recommendations from a passionate book lover and pharmacist

Expand your reading horizons by exploring these rich, diverse genres. Challenge your assumptions, support Black authors, and dive into stories that represent complex, multifaceted Black experiences.

CONNECT WITH ANIYA:

Instagram

BOOKS/AUTHORS MENTIONED:

Instagram Post from The Well Read Pharmacist

The Coldest Winter Ever by Sister Souljah (Amazon)

Carl Weber (Amazon)

Nikki Clarke (Amazon)

Vickie M. Stringer (Amazon)

The Cartel Series by Ashley and Jaquavis (Amazon)

Murder Mamas by Ashley and Jaquavis (Amazon)

T’Lyn (Amazon)

Shvonne Latrice (Amazon)

To The Only Thug I’ll Ever Love by K.L. Hall (Amazon)

My Little Love by Charae Lewis (Amazon)

When a Gangsta Calls by Lex C. (Amazon)

Alexandria House (Episode | Amazon)

Alex Warren (Amazon)

Christina C. Jones (Amazon)

Marlee Rae (Amazon)

Bailey West (Amazon)

Tiye Love (Amazon)

Dria Andersen (Amazon | Episode)

Natavia (Amazon)

Jade Royal (Amazon)

Katrina Jackson (Amazon)

Running list of books mentioned (Doc)

Thank you for listening to the We Read Smut Podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag @WeReadSmut. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast.

Connect with Alesia:
Storygraph

This podcast was produced by Galati Media.
Proud member of the Feminist Podcasters Collective.