26 Spicy Books With Innocent Discreet Covers
They say you should never judge a book by its cover, and that’s especially true when it comes to some of the spiciest reads out there. Many authors and publishers use seemingly innocent book covers to conceal the tantalizing and steamy stories within.
If you’re in the mood for a little literary excitement, here are some spicy books with covers that may deceive you at first glance.
Let’s begin.
Spicy Books With Innocent Discreet Covers
“Normal People” by Sally Rooney
“Normal People” is a profound and intimate novel by Sally Rooney that explores the complexities of love and relationships.
It follows the lives of Marianne and Connell as they navigate their way through high school and college, experiencing the challenges and changes that come with growing up.
Their relationship evolves in unexpected ways, revealing the deep emotional connections and misunderstandings that can occur between people.
“Call Me By Your Name” by André Aciman
André Aciman’s “Call Me By Your Name” is a poignant and evocative novel about an intense and unexpected summer romance.
Set in the sun-drenched landscape of Italy, the story unfolds the passionate relationship between a young man and a visiting scholar. It’s a tale of first love, exploring the exhilaration and heartache of a deeply emotional and transformative experience.
“Fifty Shades of Grey” by E.L. James
“Fifty Shades of Grey” by E.L. James is a modern and controversial novel known for its exploration of themes surrounding desire and unconventional romance.
The story revolves around the relationship between a college graduate, Anastasia Steele, and a young business magnate, Christian Grey, delving into themes of vulnerability, power dynamics, and personal discovery.
“Tropic of Cancer” by Henry Miller
Henry Miller’s “Tropic of Cancer” is a semi-autobiographical novel set in 1930s France.
Renowned for its candid and often controversial depiction of the author’s life, the book blurs the lines between fiction and reality. It offers a raw and unfiltered look at the author’s experiences, emotions, and reflections on life and society.
“Lolita” by Vladimir Nabokov
“Lolita” by Vladimir Nabokov is a classic novel known for its intricate prose and controversial subject matter.
The story is narrated by Humbert Humbert, a literature professor, who becomes obsessively infatuated with a young girl named Dolores Haze, whom he nicknames “Lolita.” The novel delves into themes of obsession, manipulation, and the complexities of human desire.
“The Story of O” by Pauline Réage
“The Story of O” by Pauline Réage is a tale that delves into themes of love, power, and submission.
The novel explores the journey of its protagonist, O, who undergoes a series of experiences that challenge and redefine her understanding of herself and her relationships. It’s a story that pushes the boundaries of traditional narratives and explores deeper, often hidden aspects of desire and consent.
“Bared to You” by Sylvia Day
“Bared to You” by Sylvia Day is the first book in the Crossfire series. It presents the emotionally charged and intensely passionate relationship between Eva Tramell and Gideon Cross.
Both characters, shaped by their traumatic pasts, find in each other a kind of love and understanding that is both healing and challenging. Their story delves into themes of trust, vulnerability, and the power of love to overcome personal demons.
“Beautiful Disaster” by Jamie McGuire
“Beautiful Disaster” by Jamie McGuire is a captivating novel about the tumultuous and passionate relationship between college student Abby Abernathy and Travis Maddox, a charming bad boy.
Their story explores the themes of love, identity, and the challenges of overcoming one’s past. The novel portrays the intensity and complexities of young love and the journey of self-discovery.
“On Dublin Street” by Samantha Young
“On Dublin Street” by Samantha Young is a captivating romance novel set in Edinburgh. It follows the story of Jocelyn Butler, who moves to Scotland to start a new life, and Braden Carmichael, a wealthy businessman.
Their relationship evolves from a no-strings-attached arrangement to something deeper, exploring themes of love, healing, and the power of emotional connection amidst personal traumas.
“Ugly Love” by Colleen Hoover
“Ugly Love” by Colleen Hoover is an intense and emotional romance novel. It tells the story of Tate Collins and airline pilot Miles Archer, whose relationship starts with no expectations.
However, as their bond deepens, past heartaches and secrets come to the surface, challenging their views on love and relationships. The novel delves into themes of loss, forgiveness, and the complexities of human connections.
“Wallbanger” by Alice Clayton
Alice Clayton’s “Wallbanger” is a blend of humor and romance. The novel centers around Caroline Reynolds and her neighbor Simon Parker, whose late-night activities disrupt her sleep.
What starts as annoyance turns into an unexpected and humorous romance. The story is known for its witty dialogue, humorous situations, and the development of a relationship based on friendship and mutual attraction.
“After” by Anna Todd
“After” by Anna Todd is a young adult romance novel originally rising to fame on Wattpad.
It follows the life of Tessa Young, an 18-year-old college student, and her tumultuous relationship with Hardin Scott, a mysterious and brooding young man.
The book explores themes of love, trust, and the challenges of navigating young adulthood and romantic relationships.
“Gabriel’s Inferno” by Sylvain Reynard
Sylvain Reynard’s “Gabriel’s Inferno” is a deeply romantic and thought-provoking novel. It revolves around Professor Gabriel Emerson and his student, Julia Mitchell.
Their relationship, initially marked by a forbidden undercurrent, evolves into a passionate and complex romance. The book delves into themes of redemption, the transformative power of love, and the impact of past secrets on present relationships.
“Sweet Filthy Boy” by Christina Lauren
“Sweet Filthy Boy” by Christina Lauren is a contemporary romance novel with a playful and erotic twist.
It tells the story of Mia Holland and Ansel Guillaume, whose spontaneous and passionate encounter in Las Vegas leads to an unexpected and deep connection. The novel explores themes of self-discovery, adventure, and the exhilarating possibilities of unexpected love.
“Paper Princess” by Erin Watt
“Paper Princess” by Erin Watt, a pseudonym for authors Elle Kennedy and Jen Frederick, is a young adult novel with a dramatic and enticing storyline.
The book follows Ella Harper, a strong-willed and resilient girl who, after her mother’s death, is thrust into the wealthy and complicated world of the Royal family. It’s a story of survival, class conflict, and romance in a high-stakes environment.
“Rush” by Maya Banks
“Rush” by Maya Banks is the first book in the Breathless Trilogy. It focuses on the intense and passionate relationship between Gabe Hamilton and Mia Crestwell.
The novel delves into themes of desire, power dynamics, and the complexities of a relationship that blurs the lines between business and pleasure. It’s known for its explicit scenes and exploration of trust and vulnerability in romantic relationships.
“The Kiss Quotient” by Helen Hoang
“The Kiss Quotient” by Helen Hoang is a refreshing and unique romance novel that flips the typical script.
The story features Stella Lane, a woman with Asperger’s syndrome who hires an escort, Michael Phan, to help her learn about relationships and intimacy. This novel is celebrated for its sensitive and realistic portrayal of neurodiversity, as well as its steamy and heartfelt love story.
“Birthday Girl” by Penelope Douglas
Penelope Douglas’s “Birthday Girl” is a contemporary romance that explores taboo themes with a compelling narrative.
The story revolves around Jordan, who finds herself falling for Pike, her boyfriend’s father. Set against a backdrop of forbidden desire, the novel delves into the complexities of love, age gaps in relationships, and societal norms.
“Priest” by Sierra Simone
“Priest” by Sierra Simone is a provocative and daring romance novel that explores the forbidden love between a Catholic priest, Father Tyler Bell, and a young woman, Poppy Danforth.
The story challenges traditional boundaries and delves into themes of faith, desire, and moral dilemmas, offering a unique and controversial perspective on love and duty.
“Red, White & Royal Blue” by Casey McQuiston
Casey McQuiston’s “Red, White & Royal Blue” is a charming and witty LGBTQ+ romance novel.
It follows the son of the President of the United States, Alex Claremont-Diaz, and his unexpected relationship with Prince Henry of Wales. The novel is a heartwarming and humorous exploration of identity, love, and the pressures of public life.
“The Hating Game” by Sally Thorne
“The Hating Game” by Sally Thorne is a delightful and engaging romantic comedy. It centers on Lucy Hutton and her office nemesis, Joshua Templeman.
Their intense rivalry turns into a complicated romantic tension, offering a playful and witty take on the enemies-to-lovers trope, set in a corporate environment.
“Dark Lover” by J.R. Ward
“Dark Lover” by J.R. Ward is the first book in the Black Dagger Brotherhood series, blending elements of paranormal romance and urban fantasy.
It tells the story of Wrath, the leader of a secret society of vampire warriors, and Beth Randall, a woman drawn into his world.
The novel combines intense romance with action-packed sequences and a unique vampire lore.
“The Deal” by Elle Kennedy
“The Deal” by Elle Kennedy is a new adult romance novel set in a college environment.
It follows the story of Hannah Wells and Garrett Graham, who make a deal to help each other with their personal challenges. Their agreement leads to an unexpected and passionate romance, exploring themes of love, trust, and overcoming past traumas.
“The Siren” by Tiffany Reisz
“The Siren” by Tiffany Reisz is an erotic romance novel with a sophisticated and provocative storyline.
The book introduces Nora Sutherlin, a celebrated erotic fiction writer, and her complex relationships, particularly with the enigmatic editor Zachary Easton. The story delves into themes of desire, creativity, and the exploration of unconventional romantic dynamics.
“Delta of Venus” by Anaïs Nin
“Delta of Venus” by Anaïs Nin is a collection of short stories that are considered pioneering works in the genre of erotic literature. Written in the 1940s, the stories were ahead of their time in exploring human sexuality, desire, and the female experience.
Nin’s writing is known for its lyrical and vivid prose, offering a candid and often sensual portrayal of her characters’ inner lives.
“Captivated by You” by Sylvia Day
“Captivated by You” by Sylvia Day is the fourth book in the Crossfire series. Continuing the intense and passionate relationship between Gideon Cross and Eva Tramell, the novel delves deeper into their complicated love affair.
The story explores themes of vulnerability, trust, and the struggles of maintaining a relationship while dealing with personal demons and past traumas.
