Lately, there’s one book that’s on the tip of everyone’s tongue – 50 Shades of Grey. E.L. James has made herself a household name by hastily scribbling a paltry S&M tale…and its subsequent two novels. But if Grey didn’t float your boat, then what other erotica might a lady pick up or download on a lonely night? If that element of submission and dominance that made Grey popular appeals to you, then why not try another bondage story – Carrie’s Story, more specifically. The novel, by Molly Weatherwood, is billed as “S&M for smart girls” in one review on Amazon.com. If you’d like to start more slowly, however, there are some tamer ways to get into the genre. Violet Blue, who is a renowned sex columnist and blogger, has amassed several anthologies of great erotic writing for women.

Best Women’s Erotica was released in 2011 and again in 2012, providing more than 35 stories that are sure to turn you on. Another collection that Blue assembled is Sweet Confessions: Erotic Fantasies for Couples. If you’re in a relationship that may be flagging in the bedroom, then this anthology could be just the encouragement you need to build some heat. Many women have credited erotic novels with reigniting the spark in their sex lives. The great thing about picking up one of these novels is that with discreet digital readers like the Kindle and Nook, you don’t have to worry about anyone seeing a smutty, Fabio-like cover. Plus, there are quite a few free options for the Kindle – simply search Amazon.com — so indulge yourself and invest in a few.