Scan barcode
A review by gretchening
Show Yourself To Me: Queer Kink Erotica by Annabeth Leong, Xan West
4.0
I'm only recently reading pro published erotica, and this new collection is just what I've been looking for. I want queer and kinky erotica that acknowledges genderqueer and non-binary identity and experience, and let me tell you, the field for this sort of writing, especially done well, is not large.
I tend to prefer single-author collections over anthologies, as anthologies tend to vary so much in style and I can't help but compare authors to one another such that everything feels jarring. Fortunately for me, I tend to very much enjoy West's style.
The characters, though quickly sketched, come in a refreshingly varied and--to my experience--realistic range of ages, bodies, identities, abilities, and interests. It's clear that there are certain themes West enjoys exploring, which is fine by me even when I don't share those specific kinks. As is often the case with erotica, your mileage may vary. For me, seeing my identity represented in satisfying and lived-in relationship situations and embracing sexuality, seeing hot scenes that range in tone from sweet to fun to vindictive to ordeal, makes this a strong read, makes all the difference. I will keep an eye out for further work from this author.
I tend to prefer single-author collections over anthologies, as anthologies tend to vary so much in style and I can't help but compare authors to one another such that everything feels jarring. Fortunately for me, I tend to very much enjoy West's style.
The characters, though quickly sketched, come in a refreshingly varied and--to my experience--realistic range of ages, bodies, identities, abilities, and interests. It's clear that there are certain themes West enjoys exploring, which is fine by me even when I don't share those specific kinks. As is often the case with erotica, your mileage may vary. For me, seeing my identity represented in satisfying and lived-in relationship situations and embracing sexuality, seeing hot scenes that range in tone from sweet to fun to vindictive to ordeal, makes this a strong read, makes all the difference. I will keep an eye out for further work from this author.