reading – V. A. CATES

Classical Erotic Fiction

2024-01-12

Eroticism has been an ever-present aspect of human culture throughout history. From ancient civilisations like the Greeks and Romans, who celebrated physical beauty and desire through art and literature, to the intricate erotic carvings of temples in India and the sensual poetry of medieval troubadours, expressions of sensuality have transcended time and societal norms.

Here is a list of some notable classical erotic fiction titles and their authors (I’ve provided links where these texts are available in the public domain).

Memoirs of Fanny Hill, by John Cleland (1748). This novel follows the life and sexual adventures of the titular character, Fanny Hill, and is considered one of the earliest examples of erotic literature in English.

Delta of Venus, by Anaïs Nin (1977) – A collection of erotic short stories written by Anaïs Nin, known for its sensuality and exploration of human desires.

The Story of O, by Pauline Réage (1954) – This controversial novel depicts the submissive journey of a young woman named O in the world of BDSM.

Lolita, by Vladimir Nabokov (1955) – While not strictly classified as erotic fiction, this novel explores the controversial and taboo relationship between a middle-aged man, Humbert Humbert, and a young girl, Dolores “Lolita” Haze.

Justine, or The Misfortunes of Virtue, by Marquis de Sade (1791) – This novel is part of the Marquis de Sade’s controversial and sexually explicit body of work, exploring themes of libertinism and sadomasochism.

The Satyricon, by Petronius Arbiter (circa 1st century AD) – This ancient Roman work contains erotic episodes and is considered one of the earliest examples of erotic fiction in Western literature.

The Kama Sutra, by Vātsyāyana (circa 3rd century AD) – Although primarily a text on human sexuality and relationships, this ancient Indian work has influenced erotic literature across cultures.

Teleny, or The Reverse of the Medal, attributed to Oscar Wilde (published anonymously in 1893) – This novel is attributed to Oscar Wilde and depicts a homoerotic relationship between its characters.

Venus in Furs, by Leopold von Sacher-Masoch (1870) – The novel explores themes of dominant-submissive relationships and female dominance, contributing to the development of the term “masochism.”

Emmanuelle, by Emmanuelle Arsan (originally published in French in 1967) – A sensual and explicit novel that follows the sexual awakening and adventures of a young woman in Thailand.

Gamiani, or Two Nights of Excess, by Alfred de Musset (1833) – This novella delves into the passionate and intense sexual encounters between three characters: Countess Gamiani, Fanny, and Alcide.

The Pearl, by Anonymous (published in 1879-1880) – A collection of erotic stories, often described as Victorian erotica, that explores various themes of sexual desire, exploration and taboo.

Important! Classical erotic fiction may contain explicit content and themes that reflect the attitudes and norms of the time in which they were written. It is essential to approach these works with an understanding of their historical context and personal sensibilities. It won’t be for everyone, so a little research is suggested before you dive in.

Love Erotica? Read Circlet Press Anthologies

2023-11-10

I know, I know, I talk about Circlet Press a lot, but it has published some of the best erotic fiction in my opinion, and if you love erotica but you haven’t read any of Circlet’s offerings yet, you’re missing out.

Circlet Press have released numerous anthologies that explore the intersection of sensuality, fantasy and science fiction. I always think that short stories are a good place to start because you are more likely to find something you love, without the time investment of reading an entire novel. It’s also a great way to discover erotic writers you might not have heard of before.

Here are a few to get you started:

Best Fantastic Erotica – Erotic sf/f combines erotic and sexual themes with magic, futurism, high fantasy, cyberpunk, space opera, magic realism, and all the many other sub-genres.

Like a Love Triangle – A collection of erotic stories for those who love threesomes, whether in real life or in the realm of imagination.

Charming: Modern Gay Erotic Fairytales – From poisoned apples to polished swords, classic fairy tales are full of sexual imagery. For this anthology, writers found those erotic threads and wove them into stories where the castle is an apartment building in Prague, or the Evil Queen is The Prince’s ex-boyfriend.

Queerpunk – Queerpunk, with its collection of stories that revel in a near-futuristic vision of our own time, investigates the evolution of Queer sexuality under the smog-covered umbrella of urban and technological advancement.

Superlative Speculative Erotica – A collection of stories that reflect many of the genres published by Circlet Press: a little cyberpunk, a little high fantasy, a touch of horror, some superheroes, a bit of space opera, some paranormal.

Apocalypse Sex – With their own demise staring them in the face, the characters in Apocalypse Sex decide to do one thing: have the best sex of their lives. These stories include a range of settings, tones, and sexualities, but they share the feeling of freedom that impending death can provide.

Like a Sword – These are tales of mages and magic, of warriors and princes and forest folk. But not all battles are won with armies, and magic finds its power not just in heart and soul but in body and desire.

And an honourable mention (because I loved the stories in this one, and I also have a story in this one):

Like a Spell: Air – Original stories of magic users, interesting twists on the typical sorcerers and mages. With smut.

John Donne’s “The Flea”: A Metaphysical Exploration of Love and Seduction

2023-10-20

The Flea by John Donne is a remarkable poem from the 17th century that embodies the essence of metaphysical writing. Donne uses wit and elaborate conceits to explore the themes of love and seduction and the interplay of physical and spiritual desires vs societal pressures on woman at the time. I want to talk about The Flea’s intricate metaphorical layers and look at how Donne uses his poetic kills to bring to life a conceit that sounds ridiculous on the outset.

The poem centres around a flea that bites both the speaker and his lover, serving as a metaphor for physical union and the intertwining of bodily fluids. Donne uses this small, insignificant insect as a vehicle to create a vivid and provocative analogy between the flea’s mingled blood and the act of sex. The flea becomes a tangible representation of their physical and emotional connection, and he uses this to challenge her on her reluctance to indulge him.

Mark but this flea, and mark in this,
How little that which thou deniest me is;
It sucked me first, and now sucks thee,
And in this flea our two bloods mingled be
John Donne: The Flea

This persuasive rhetoric is designed to woo his lover. I’ve got to be honest here, I always found The Flea a little questionable in terms of consent. It’s clear that the lover doesn’t want to frivolously give up her virginity to him because of the societal pressures on women at that time, although the speaker is persistent and uses various methods to persuade her to give in. He argues that killing the flea would be the same as destroying their newfound unity, and since their blood is already mixed inside the insect, they might as well have sex.

The flea’s diminutive and harmless nature contrasts with the implications of the poem’s themes. While the flea is innocent, it becomes a vessel of the lover’s guilt, symbolising the societal taboos of physical intimacy outside marriage during Donne’s time. His audacity to employ such an unconventional conceit showcases his wit and boldness in presenting love as a natural force, unbounded by social restrictions. Donne was a bit of a rebel.

Ultimately, Donne’s poem showcases a desire to break social norms, if in a rather juvenile way – essentially, a guy is talking about a gross little bug to try and get his lady to shag him, playing down the significance of her virginity. It speaks of the mindset of the time, when a woman’s virginity was a prized thing that was to be saved until marriage, but also makes some interesting contrasts that might better fit the modern day, where the importance of virginity has less of an impact in many societies. But the speaker isn’t keyed into how vastly different the implications are for women compared to men (and again, this is where his immaturity and carnal desires show clearly).

Cruel and sudden, hast thou since
Purpled thy nail, in blood of innocence?
Wherein could this flea guilty be,
Except in that drop which it sucked from thee?
John Donne: The Flea

Yeah, she squashed it. Poor flea.

The lover isn’t buying the conceit, and expresses that killing the flea hasn’t changed them in any way. But the speaker persists, agreeing that yes, killing the flea has had no significant impact on them, and so – yeah you’ve guessed it – why not just have sex?

We don’t know if she eventually relents because it’s not the point of the poem. Instead, we’re left considering perceived rules that are forced upon us from a young age, and whether or not those rules make any real sense in the grand scheme of life.

What’s the Deal with Shapeshifters in Erotica?

2023-08-10

I’ve got an erotic shapeshifter story coming out later this year in TRASHsandwich, and it has made me think about the abundance of shapeshifters that can be found in erotic fiction. As a theme, they carry a profound symbolism and invite us to explore the complexities of human nature, and they also give us endless storytelling possibilities. There are so many different types of shifters out there – werewolves and werebears, skin-walkers, changelings, kitsunes and doppelgangers. The list goes on.

But what is it about shapeshifters that captivates us so much? And why do they tend to crop up in erotica so often? Well, I have a few theories about that.

The Dance with Identity

At the heart of most shapeshifter tale lies the exploration of identity. They represent the eternal struggle within us all – the search for our true selves amidst a world that often demands conformity. These beings morph into different forms, so they challenge the notion of fixed identities and embrace fluidity. Through their journeys, we are prompted to question our own identities and embrace the idea that it’s totally OK to evolve, adapt and change over time.

A Mirror to Humanity

Shapeshifters serve as a mirror to humanity’s multifaceted nature. With their ability to embody both light and darkness, good and evil, they reflect on the intricate duality within us all. These characters often grapple with the morality of their actions, which speaks to the eternal human struggle between virtue and temptation. Shapeshifters provide a unique lens through which we can explore the depths of human psychology and the choices we make in our everyday lives.

Freedom from Limitations

Deep down, we all just want to be liberated from the physical and emotional constraints that society often puts on us. Shapeshifters embody this ideal. The ability to transform opens a world of possibilities where we can navigate through different environments, cultures and social strata. This freedom isn’t just restricted to the physical form but also extends to emotional and psychological liberation. As readers, we are drawn to the idea of shedding our own constraints and soaring into the unknown.

Mystique and Intrigue

Shapeshifters exude an air of mystery and intrigue. Their elusive nature and unpredictable motives keep us on the edge of our seats, eager to unravel the secrets that lie within. Whether they are portrayed as benevolent protectors or cunning tricksters, the unpredictability of shapeshifters makes them fascinating characters.

Adaptability and Survival

The ability to adapt in our world is a prized trait, so it’s no wonder that shapeshifters epitomise adaptability as they seamlessly blend into different environments and situations. Their survival instincts and resourcefulness resonates with us because we yearn for that level of resilience and the capability to thrive in the face of adversity – characteristics that have allowed humanity to survive through the ages.

They Appeal to our Raw, Carnal Natures

The fascination with shapeshifters is deeply rooted in our primal, carnal nature, tapping into the most primal instincts that have been an integral part of human evolution. Metamorphosis is a concept that sparks a yearning for transcendence and escape from the confines of our bodies or society.

Their ability to morph into different forms serves as a metaphor for the diverse facets of human sexuality. Shapeshifters blur the lines between gender and identity, exploring the fluidity of attraction and the boundless possibilities of erotic encounters. Through their transformative abilities, they offer a safe space to explore forbidden fantasies and hidden desires, allowing us to delve into a realm of uninhibited sensuality. The inherent power dynamics in shapeshifter stories can also evoke a sense of submission and domination, adding an element of kink and arousal to the narrative.

The Element of Danger

Shapeshifters embody an unpredictable nature and blur the lines between friend and foe, trust and betrayal. This adds an element of suspense and adrenaline to their stories. The danger lies not only in their potential for malevolence but also in the uncertainty of their intentions and loyalties. As we follow their shapeshifting journeys, we willingly surrender to the suspense and uncertainty, and are drawn to the exhilaration of stepping into the unknown and embracing the risks that come with it.

The attraction to shapeshifters stems from the primal urge to confront danger, to experience the thrill of the unpredictable, and to enter into a world where boundaries are blurred. This makes their narratives an intense exploration of our need for danger and adventure.

The Element of the Forbidden

Shapeshifters hold a unique appeal in fiction, particularly when it comes to our desire for the forbidden aspects of sexuality. Their transformative abilities allow for the exploration of diverse and unconventional sexual experiences that might be considered taboo or socially unacceptable in the real world. Through their shapeshifting capabilities, they offer a safe and fantastical space to explore the realms of eroticism without the confines of societal norms. They embody the allure of forbidden desires, blurring the lines between gender, species, and power dynamics, creating scenarios that push the boundaries of sexual exploration.

What are some of the main things you love about shapeshifter stories? Drop me a comment below.

Online Magazines and Fiction Markets that Accept Erotic Fiction

2023-07-22

Since I’ve always got a list saved of different fiction markets that accept erotica, I thought it might be good to share some of the links for any fellow writers out there who are struggling to figure out where to send their work. Submitting your stories to online markets is a fantastic way to get your writing in front of others, get involved in the erotica scene, and find other authors that you enjoy reading, all within a respectful and supportive community of likeminded folk.

Important! Don’t forget to check if a magazine is open to submissions before sending anything. Sometimes they close to catch up on their backlogs. Also, it’s incredibly important to read their submission guidelines before sending anything, to make sure that your work fits what they’re looking for.

The Erozine
The Erozine wants your writing if it revolves around the theme of eroticism, romanticism and sensuality. They publish emerging and established writers of all genders, sexualities, disabilities, race, age and strongly encourage subs from every part of the world.

Lascivity
Lascivity publishes fiction and essays that include kink in some way. They are not looking for vanilla erotica or generic sex and relationship articles. Darker erotica and essays which tackle complex subjects are welcome here.

HORNS
Sexy, smutty and downright dirty fiction and poetry.

House of Erotica
House of Erotica work with many of the world’s leading erotica authors to bring you the hottest, sexiest stories across the entire range of sensual genres on all formats. From paperbacks to eBooks and even audiobooks, you will find our authors’ work delighting readers and listeners across the globe.

TRASHsandwich
Looking for a place to showcase your NSFW content? TRASH SANDWICH is an indie-pub grab bag of all things sexy. (I have a story coming out here in Winter 2023!)

Literotica
Literotica is one of the most prominent websites dedicated to adult lit. It hosts a vast collection of erotic stories, poems, and essays submitted by writers from around the world. The platform embraces a wide range of themes and styles, making it an excellent place for authors of all tastes to share their work.

Erotic Review Magazine
The Erotic Review Magazine is an online publication that features sophisticated and thought-provoking erotica. It focuses on well-crafted stories that explore sensuality, intimacy and human connections. Writers seeking a more literary approach to their erotic fiction will find like this market.

Delicate Friend
Delicate Friend is an adult (18+) quarterly arts and literary magazine focusing on romance, yearning, eroticism and other forms of desire and intimacy.

Throats to the Sky
Throats to the Sky is a magazine that strives to inspire all humans to have pride in their sexualities. They accept erotic (or just plain slutty!) work but they also seek stories from sexual minorities and survivors of sexual abuse. They believe that telling stories can be an invaluable healing tool.

Bellesa
Bellesa is a female-oriented adult website that aims to provide a safe and inclusive space for erotic content. They accept submissions of erotic fiction and encourage writers to explore diverse themes, characters, and relationships.

These online magazines and fiction markets provide a supportive platform for both seasoned and budding authors, allowing you to showcase your talent and creativity. If you’re still not sure, I’d recommend reading some of these magazines first to get a good feel for their aesthetic.

Happy writing!

Long Time No Speak (& Erotic Tweets)

2019-06-22

It has been rather a while, but I am happy to say that I’ve just sent off a new erotica story for submission – keep your fingers crossed! I would love to be able to share this story, as it was immensely fun to write even in its darker moments. The story focuses on shapeshifting but also the difficult choices we make day to day: do we choose others, or do we choose ourselves and our own goals/needs?

One thing I love about erotica is how we can make these decisions, either way, and see how the consequences play out. Because that’s what life is, ultimately: choice, action (or willful inaction) and consequence.

This is something every writer needs to think about when working on a story. Every single action, every thought, every motion, leads to something, or is part of a chain of somethings that result in something else. Stories are like chains, full of links that come together to create a whole.

It’s lovely to be writing erotica again. I will keep you posted on how the submission goes!

For now, I will leave you with some older fiction that might have passed you by. These are all Twitter-length.

Inhuman Desire

Instinct tells him he can’t want her; she isn’t human. But late one night she raps on his door in only a coat and wicked red grin.

The Trade

They trade slices of their souls for pleasure: a silk tongue along a jawbone, fingers skim over firm flesh. In the end they are one another.

After The Crash

She had a tattoo of him done after the crash. At night she swears she can feel his fingers tracing their history over her thighs.

Shifters

Whatever body she inhabits, he can spot her in a crowd: the sway of her hips, how she glances over her shoulder as if she knows he’s there.

Remake

It didn’t work out. She sweeps up the pieces, sifts them, sorts them. She has a soldering iron; she’ll put him back together and try again.

Like A Spell Volume 3: Air Now Has A Goodreads Page

2018-04-07

Just a little heads up that the Circlet Press anthology Like A Spell Volume 3: Air now has its own book page on Goodreads, which you can find here.

My short magical erotica story Refrain features in the anthology. If you’ve read volume 3 and you have a spare moment, we would love to hear what you thought of it. You can post reviews and comments on Goodreads, or on any of the other platforms where you can buy the book:

Amazon US | Amazon UK | Smashwords | Barnes & Noble

This is my first erotic story sale so I am obviously eager to market it as widely as possible – hopefully without being too annoying. If you know of any additional venues the anthology might be of interest let me know!

Erotic Stories I’ve Enjoyed Lately – #1

2018-02-10

I’ve been ploughing my way through the sexy and disturbing Libidinous Zombie: An Erotic Horror Collection, edited by Rose Caraway and featuring Jade A. Waters, Tamsin Flowers, Remittance Girl, Allen Dusk, Malin James, Raziel Moore and Janine Ashbless. The summary reads:

This book is erotic. This book is horrifying. This book is cunning. This book is edgy, seductive, violent, fiendish, indecent, and unfair. This collection is a work of fiction. Consider yourself trigger warned.

Overall this erotic horror anthology is well-crafted and the stories and author voices are varied. Admittedly, a couple of the pieces didn’t do it for me, but that’s down to my personal tastes than the ideas themselves (all ideas are worthy of time and energy). The length of each piece provides bite-sized chunks of erotica that can be read during free moments. Stories that particularly stood out:

The Sorcerer’s Apprentice, by Janine Ashbless, which has a terrific male POV voice and tight, active prose. The sex is intense, relentless and hot, much like the subject of the main character’s interest.

Devil Winds, by Rose Caraway was also strong, a delicious tale of vengeance with some evocative sensory descriptions. I love personification done well, and in this story the wind is very much a supporting character.

Alice in the Attic, by Malin James, a well-written story that explores mental illness, manipulation and inappropriate lust, with a nice twist at the end that I didn’t expect. I enjoy erotica that tantalises and makes me wait a little while for payoff.

I also stumbled upon Tasting the Doctors – A Thorough Public Exam, by Anna Cromwell. This story is extremely tongue-in-cheek and had me chuckling a number of times, and providing you go into it with that in mind the characters are an absolute riot. It’s fast-paced and not to be taken too seriously.

Young, sexy, and inexperienced Olivia finds herself reunited with the handsome, well-endowed Dr. Droll in yet another lusty encounter.

More reviews and recommendations to come soon.

Circlet Press Anthology Release; Like A Spell Vol.2: Fire

2017-10-26

The second volume of the long-awaited Circlet Press anthology quadrilogy Like A Spell has landed! This time the book is titled Fire and features a wonderful selection of gay fantasy erotica.

Fire focuses on the love between men, with stories by Avery Vanderlyle, J. C. Williams, Ellis Sandry, Rhidian Brenig, Lucien Grey and Welton B. Marsland.

“When we thought fire, we thought of the passion and heat of men, the all-encompassing flames of their desires. We thought of the fire gods Ra and Vulcan, Agni and Xiuhtecuhtli. We thought about strength, ferocity, and power.”

The book is available on Amazon, Apple iBooks, Barnes & Noble, Google Play and Kobo. You can pick up a copy of the first volume by following the various links on the book’s blog page. Authors also love hearing what their readers think so if you have the time leave the book a review.

Like A Spell: Fire, edited by Jennifer Levine.

Note: watch this space for some teasers for my own story, a heterosexual erotica featuring a witch and a man who thinks he knows what he wants. Set to land early 2018, it will be in the third instalment of the anthology series.