Hannah Grace’s “Icebreaker” fell directly into my hands two years ago, and while it was far from my first hockey romance (keep reading), it definitely had all the same hallmarks that keep me coming back for a [good sports romance](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/sports-romance-books/) every time. The tension, the game-day support, the will-they-won’t-they of it all!

It was tough not to fall in love with Nate Hawkins and Anastasia Allen, especially when the former is an adorable hockey player and the latter is a gorgeous figure skater. The emotional communication between casual hook-ups to ice rink rivals to (*finally*) committed significant others is not to be overlooked. On-page therapy sessions in a romance novel? Amidst scene after scene of down and dirty? Yes, please.

If it’s more of that you’re after, I’m your girl. Between my ongoing addiction to the book lover’s side of TikTok (BookTok) and my endless Kindle library, my awareness of all things rom-com is unmatched. Here are some of my favorite romance books with love stories that are every bit as heart-wrenchingly sweet as Nate and Stassie.

## 1. “[Daydream](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/198647119-daydream)” by Hannah Grace
![Daydream-by-Hannah-Grace](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/2ArgaaIkSGhRKTJ7tYATTA/63d119838227ce443469eb2d93f33870/Daydream-by-Hannah-Grace.jpg)

If you were expecting me to kick off this list with [“Wildfire”](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/101145836-wildfire) (book two in the [Maple Hills series](https://www.goodreads.com/series/348768-maple-hills)), consider this my curveball—or whatever the hockey equivalent of a curveball might be. I don’t exactly read hockey romance for the sports commentary...

No, no. The first one I have to suggest is “Daydream”, because y’all, I was DYING for Henry’s book the moment I finished “Icebreaker,” and I know for a fact I was not alone. Sweet, darling, thoughtful, feminist Henry deserves his main character moment. I was utterly convinced he HAD to be next, but "Wildfire" came first, leaving all of us waiting for Henry's book out in the cold. 

Junior year of college finds Henry in a tricky class with an even trickier professor. Determined not to let procrastination get the better of him—especially now that he’s captain of the hockey team—Henry joins forces with Halle, the classmate whose book club he accidentally crashes. 

While I’m writing this, I’m eagerly awaiting the August 2024 release date, but I cannot wait for the sparks to fly between Henry and Halle. I plan to devour this book in one sitting when it comes out. Nobody talk to me...

## 2. “[The Year We Fell Down](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/46019039-the-year-we-fell-down)” by Sarina Bowen
![The-Year-We-Fell-Down-by-Sarina-Bowen](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/4R3KHDYCpaBfr6MPmBlm9b/88cc5700a40ce75bbd0d886c87e0a80f/The-Year-We-Fell-Down-by-Sarina-Bowen.jpg)

OH. MY. GOD. Whatever else you’re reading right now, put it down and pick up this book. It's heartbreaking, funny, sweet, sexy, and beautiful. If I hadn’t already adored Sarina Bowen for her True North series, I would be well and truly addicted thanks to the Ivy Years books.

Corey Callahan was eager to start college as a champion hockey player, but when an accident during a game puts her in a wheelchair, her whole life changes. Enter Adam Hartley, a fellow hockey player who's also recovering from an injury and conveniently resides in the handicapped-accessible dormitory of Harkness College.

Every book in this series absolutely shreds me to pieces, so make sure you have a full box of tissues handy, but please, oh, please just read it.

## 3. “[The Deal](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/45484397-the-deal)” by Elle Kennedy
![The-Deal-by-Elle-Kennedy](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/36lMvr7BnLH0MvOTWrjAxO/e49938f8b25d3e122ec84be07104f649/The-Deal-by-Elle-Kennedy.jpg)

As if anyone has walked by an “As Seen on BookTok” table at any bookstore in the past two years and hasn’t encountered this book already. Oh, well. You’re going to reencounter it.

Elle Kennedy’s Off-Campus series kicks off with “The Deal,” a deliciously dirty opener that boils down to one crucial idea: “I’ll help you keep your grades up so you can stay on the hockey team if you help me flirt with a guy I like.” Gosh, I wonder where that could lead?

## 4. “[The Cheat Sheet](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/58100280-the-cheat-sheet)” by Sarah Adams
![The-Cheat-Sheet-by-Sarah-Adams](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/39UTATJ3fhAgv5z4jgtHVM/dad36fc24eeb9f6e8212a27be0e35ed4/The-Cheat-Sheet-by-Sarah-Adams.jpg)

I am not a football person. Sorry, not sorry: It’s just not my sport. The bit of my brain that knows that, though, seems to conveniently forget such a thing in the face of a book about a heartsick lady madly in love with her pro football player best friend.

Bree Camden is the dearest of buds with Nathan Donelson, but she’s been pining after him for too long to keep her mouth shut when a reporter starts asking questions (there might have been a little tequila involved). Forced to date publicly until after the Super Bowl, it becomes tougher and tougher for the pair not to cross the line between besties and bedmates.

So, maybe football’s not so bad…

## 5. “[Collide](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/197306586-collide)” by Bal Khabra
![Collide-by-Bal-Khabra](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/hIlqrRESySoa3Xchuv8Vo/9d0ebd8df28dbd12c316bd9a16260028/Collide-by-Bal-Khabra.jpg)

The first book of Khabra’s Off the Ice series, “Collide” introduces brainy, ambitious Summer and friendly, flirtatious Aiden when they are forced to work together on a student research project. Designed to launch Summer’s grad school plans and make up for a big mistake that threatens Aiden’s hockey season, this project shoves some pretty conflicting personalities into the same space. Can you say “[forced proximity](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/forced-proximity-trope/)”? Hockey romance is not without its tropes, after all.

## 6. “[Team Players](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/team-players-series/)” on Dipsea
![Team-Players-on-Dipsea](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/2IZYMhQzaVwwXUuSoQcjgW/e346f50b851d692ced89dbeff0eff0b1/Team-Players-on-Dipsea.jpg)

Phew, there's something about a soccer player, isn’t there? A soccer player with a British accent adds a little extra dose of heat, and if that wasn’t enough, an Irish accent gets added to that mix pretty quickly in this audiobook.

Darius and Noelle both feel inexplicably drawn to Darius’s teammate Bryce, and when the couple invite Bryce to train with them, it doesn’t take long for all three of them to warm up to each other. Training leads to locker rooms, locker rooms lead to post-match celebrations and so much more in this steamy listen. 

## 7. “[The Fake Out](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/184591636-the-fake-out)” by Stephanie Archer
![The-Fake-Out-by-Stephanie-Archer-small](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/1ZD515y3syBpJC7Ph8XJvQ/9b724154df8201f77c5639232ed3c012/The-Fake-Out-by-Stephanie-Archer.jpg)

The only thing cuter (and sexier) than a good college sports romance? A professional sports romance. Archer’s Vancouver Storm series starts with “Behind the Net,” but “The Fake Out” is book two, and it’s my personal favorite. 

Hazel is ready to move on from her atrocious ex-boyfriend (we’ve all been there), and what better way to get back at him than to fake date Rory? Not only did Hazel tutor him back in high school, Rory is also her ex’s biggest rival on the rink. Win-win, right?

Beneath all that flirty arrogance, though, is a genuinely sweet guy who doesn’t appear to be faking any of it. *Swoon*.

## 8. “[The Bromance Book Club](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/44019067-the-bromance-book-club)” by Lyssa Kay Adams
![The-Bromance-Book-Club-by-Lyssa-Kay-Adams.jpg](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/5vjbGShlnv3ZmiuqrVwM5c/06d4d7e1c08f282bd20917fb0310727d/The-Bromance-Book-Club-by-Lyssa-Kay-Adams.jpg)

I may be pushing the bounds of “sports romance” here, but bear with me. The protagonist is a baseball player, and the journey of emotional development is VERY “Icebreaker”-adjacent.

If you read no other contemporary romance series, read this one. The Bromance Book Club is a group of guys who get together weekly and read romance books. Yes, really! 

Taking their cues from bookish hints that inspire their own romantic gestures, Nashville’s tough guys aim to improve their relationships one bodice ripper at a time. The first book focuses on Gavin who is intent on saving his flailing marriage, but each book [in this series](https://www.goodreads.com/series/267075-bromance-book-club) is well worth the read.

## 9. “[The Enforcer](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/208292290-the-enforcer)” by Avery Keelan
![The-Enforcer-by-Avery-Keelan](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/4tXN7pfacnamBPqX0tuAMI/58af04a4e0f722fe7a932cbf5ecde963/The-Enforcer-by-Avery-Keelan.jpg)

Okay, okay. One more hockey book before we move on to other sports. This one is too hot not to mention, and I can never resist a good [second chance romance](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/second-chance-romance/)...

Violet and Nash dated freshman year, but when they reunite as seniors, things are very different. Nash is eager for a professional hockey career in the NHL while Violet is working toward becoming a sports trainer. When her senior internship assigns her to be his personal trainer for a whole semester, though, the old spark returns with a vengeance. Too bad about the team’s anti-fraternization policy, huh?

## 10. “[Book Lovers](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/58690308-book-lovers)” by Emily Henry
![Book-Lovers-by-Emily-Henry](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/25sJq4oC87lJo70OZwJhL3/40946a04423f4b7fcadbd134e4264a8b/Book-Lovers-by-Emily-Henry.jpg)

Want to diverge from the world of sports romance but keep a few “Icebreaker” vibes? A little forced proximity between two consummate nerds with devoted career ambitions, perhaps? I’ve got you covered.

I love every last one of Emily Henry’s books—and “People We Meet on Vacation” is being adapted into a movie soon, so read up, bookworms! That said, it's no surprise that “Book Lovers” hooked me. Nora is a high-powered New York literary agent, Charlie is an ultra-serious editor, and they do NOT meet on the best of terms. So what are they doing constantly running into each other in Sunshine Falls, North Carolina?

Small-town cuteness meets [enemies-to-lovers](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/enemies-to-lovers-fantasy-books/)? (Okay, more like begrudging coworkers to lovers.) Be still my heart. And your TBR...

__Looking for even more steamy sports romance? Check out [Dipsea’s collection of audiobooks](https://www.dipseastories.com/), and pay special attention to [the “Athletic” tag](https://www.dipseastories.com/tags/athletic-tag/).__

Hannah Grace’s “Icebreaker” fell directly into my hands two years ago, and while it was far from my first hockey romance (keep reading), it definitely had all the same hallmarks that keep me coming back for a [good sports romance](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/sports-romance-books/) every time. The tension, the game-day support, the will-they-won’t-they of it all!

It was tough not to fall in love with Nate Hawkins and Anastasia Allen, especially when the former is an adorable hockey player and the latter is a gorgeous figure skater. The emotional communication between casual hook-ups to ice rink rivals to (*finally*) committed significant others is not to be overlooked. On-page therapy sessions in a romance novel? Amidst scene after scene of down and dirty? Yes, please.

If it’s more of that you’re after, I’m your girl. Between my ongoing addiction to the book lover’s side of TikTok (BookTok) and my endless Kindle library, my awareness of all things rom-com is unmatched. Here are some of my favorite romance books with love stories that are every bit as heart-wrenchingly sweet as Nate and Stassie.

## 1. “[Daydream](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/198647119-daydream)” by Hannah Grace
![Daydream-by-Hannah-Grace](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/2ArgaaIkSGhRKTJ7tYATTA/63d119838227ce443469eb2d93f33870/Daydream-by-Hannah-Grace.jpg)

If you were expecting me to kick off this list with [“Wildfire”](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/101145836-wildfire) (book two in the [Maple Hills series](https://www.goodreads.com/series/348768-maple-hills)), consider this my curveball—or whatever the hockey equivalent of a curveball might be. I don’t exactly read hockey romance for the sports commentary...

No, no. The first one I have to suggest is “Daydream”, because y’all, I was DYING for Henry’s book the moment I finished “Icebreaker,” and I know for a fact I was not alone. Sweet, darling, thoughtful, feminist Henry deserves his main character moment. I was utterly convinced he HAD to be next, but "Wildfire" came first, leaving all of us waiting for Henry's book out in the cold. 

Junior year of college finds Henry in a tricky class with an even trickier professor. Determined not to let procrastination get the better of him—especially now that he’s captain of the hockey team—Henry joins forces with Halle, the classmate whose book club he accidentally crashes. 

While I’m writing this, I’m eagerly awaiting the August 2024 release date, but I cannot wait for the sparks to fly between Henry and Halle. I plan to devour this book in one sitting when it comes out. Nobody talk to me...

## 2. “[The Year We Fell Down](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/46019039-the-year-we-fell-down)” by Sarina Bowen
![The-Year-We-Fell-Down-by-Sarina-Bowen](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/4R3KHDYCpaBfr6MPmBlm9b/88cc5700a40ce75bbd0d886c87e0a80f/The-Year-We-Fell-Down-by-Sarina-Bowen.jpg)

OH. MY. GOD. Whatever else you’re reading right now, put it down and pick up this book. It's heartbreaking, funny, sweet, sexy, and beautiful. If I hadn’t already adored Sarina Bowen for her True North series, I would be well and truly addicted thanks to the Ivy Years books.

Corey Callahan was eager to start college as a champion hockey player, but when an accident during a game puts her in a wheelchair, her whole life changes. Enter Adam Hartley, a fellow hockey player who's also recovering from an injury and conveniently resides in the handicapped-accessible dormitory of Harkness College.

Every book in this series absolutely shreds me to pieces, so make sure you have a full box of tissues handy, but please, oh, please just read it.

## 3. “[The Deal](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/45484397-the-deal)” by Elle Kennedy
![The-Deal-by-Elle-Kennedy](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/36lMvr7BnLH0MvOTWrjAxO/e49938f8b25d3e122ec84be07104f649/The-Deal-by-Elle-Kennedy.jpg)

As if anyone has walked by an “As Seen on BookTok” table at any bookstore in the past two years and hasn’t encountered this book already. Oh, well. You’re going to reencounter it.

Elle Kennedy’s Off-Campus series kicks off with “The Deal,” a deliciously dirty opener that boils down to one crucial idea: “I’ll help you keep your grades up so you can stay on the hockey team if you help me flirt with a guy I like.” Gosh, I wonder where that could lead?

## 4. “[The Cheat Sheet](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/58100280-the-cheat-sheet)” by Sarah Adams
![The-Cheat-Sheet-by-Sarah-Adams](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/39UTATJ3fhAgv5z4jgtHVM/dad36fc24eeb9f6e8212a27be0e35ed4/The-Cheat-Sheet-by-Sarah-Adams.jpg)

I am not a football person. Sorry, not sorry: It’s just not my sport. The bit of my brain that knows that, though, seems to conveniently forget such a thing in the face of a book about a heartsick lady madly in love with her pro football player best friend.

Bree Camden is the dearest of buds with Nathan Donelson, but she’s been pining after him for too long to keep her mouth shut when a reporter starts asking questions (there might have been a little tequila involved). Forced to date publicly until after the Super Bowl, it becomes tougher and tougher for the pair not to cross the line between besties and bedmates.

So, maybe football’s not so bad…

## 5. “[Collide](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/197306586-collide)” by Bal Khabra
![Collide-by-Bal-Khabra](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/hIlqrRESySoa3Xchuv8Vo/9d0ebd8df28dbd12c316bd9a16260028/Collide-by-Bal-Khabra.jpg)

The first book of Khabra’s Off the Ice series, “Collide” introduces brainy, ambitious Summer and friendly, flirtatious Aiden when they are forced to work together on a student research project. Designed to launch Summer’s grad school plans and make up for a big mistake that threatens Aiden’s hockey season, this project shoves some pretty conflicting personalities into the same space. Can you say “[forced proximity](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/forced-proximity-trope/)”? Hockey romance is not without its tropes, after all.

## 6. “[Team Players](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/team-players-series/)” on Dipsea
![Team-Players-on-Dipsea](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/2IZYMhQzaVwwXUuSoQcjgW/e346f50b851d692ced89dbeff0eff0b1/Team-Players-on-Dipsea.jpg)

Phew, there's something about a soccer player, isn’t there? A soccer player with a British accent adds a little extra dose of heat, and if that wasn’t enough, an Irish accent gets added to that mix pretty quickly in this audiobook.

Darius and Noelle both feel inexplicably drawn to Darius’s teammate Bryce, and when the couple invite Bryce to train with them, it doesn’t take long for all three of them to warm up to each other. Training leads to locker rooms, locker rooms lead to post-match celebrations and so much more in this steamy listen. 

## 7. “[The Fake Out](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/184591636-the-fake-out)” by Stephanie Archer
![The-Fake-Out-by-Stephanie-Archer-small](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/1ZD515y3syBpJC7Ph8XJvQ/9b724154df8201f77c5639232ed3c012/The-Fake-Out-by-Stephanie-Archer.jpg)

The only thing cuter (and sexier) than a good college sports romance? A professional sports romance. Archer’s Vancouver Storm series starts with “Behind the Net,” but “The Fake Out” is book two, and it’s my personal favorite. 

Hazel is ready to move on from her atrocious ex-boyfriend (we’ve all been there), and what better way to get back at him than to fake date Rory? Not only did Hazel tutor him back in high school, Rory is also her ex’s biggest rival on the rink. Win-win, right?

Beneath all that flirty arrogance, though, is a genuinely sweet guy who doesn’t appear to be faking any of it. *Swoon*.

## 8. “[The Bromance Book Club](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/44019067-the-bromance-book-club)” by Lyssa Kay Adams
![The-Bromance-Book-Club-by-Lyssa-Kay-Adams.jpg](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/5vjbGShlnv3ZmiuqrVwM5c/06d4d7e1c08f282bd20917fb0310727d/The-Bromance-Book-Club-by-Lyssa-Kay-Adams.jpg)

I may be pushing the bounds of “sports romance” here, but bear with me. The protagonist is a baseball player, and the journey of emotional development is VERY “Icebreaker”-adjacent.

If you read no other contemporary romance series, read this one. The Bromance Book Club is a group of guys who get together weekly and read romance books. Yes, really! 

Taking their cues from bookish hints that inspire their own romantic gestures, Nashville’s tough guys aim to improve their relationships one bodice ripper at a time. The first book focuses on Gavin who is intent on saving his flailing marriage, but each book [in this series](https://www.goodreads.com/series/267075-bromance-book-club) is well worth the read.

## 9. “[The Enforcer](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/208292290-the-enforcer)” by Avery Keelan
![The-Enforcer-by-Avery-Keelan](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/4tXN7pfacnamBPqX0tuAMI/58af04a4e0f722fe7a932cbf5ecde963/The-Enforcer-by-Avery-Keelan.jpg)

Okay, okay. One more hockey book before we move on to other sports. This one is too hot not to mention, and I can never resist a good [second chance romance](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/second-chance-romance/)...

Violet and Nash dated freshman year, but when they reunite as seniors, things are very different. Nash is eager for a professional hockey career in the NHL while Violet is working toward becoming a sports trainer. When her senior internship assigns her to be his personal trainer for a whole semester, though, the old spark returns with a vengeance. Too bad about the team’s anti-fraternization policy, huh?

## 10. “[Book Lovers](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/58690308-book-lovers)” by Emily Henry
![Book-Lovers-by-Emily-Henry](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/25sJq4oC87lJo70OZwJhL3/40946a04423f4b7fcadbd134e4264a8b/Book-Lovers-by-Emily-Henry.jpg)

Want to diverge from the world of sports romance but keep a few “Icebreaker” vibes? A little forced proximity between two consummate nerds with devoted career ambitions, perhaps? I’ve got you covered.

I love every last one of Emily Henry’s books—and “People We Meet on Vacation” is being adapted into a movie soon, so read up, bookworms! That said, it's no surprise that “Book Lovers” hooked me. Nora is a high-powered New York literary agent, Charlie is an ultra-serious editor, and they do NOT meet on the best of terms. So what are they doing constantly running into each other in Sunshine Falls, North Carolina?

Small-town cuteness meets [enemies-to-lovers](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/enemies-to-lovers-fantasy-books/)? (Okay, more like begrudging coworkers to lovers.) Be still my heart. And your TBR...

__Looking for even more steamy sports romance? Check out [Dipsea’s collection of audiobooks](https://www.dipseastories.com/), and pay special attention to [the “Athletic” tag](https://www.dipseastories.com/tags/athletic-tag/).__

Still feeling steamed up from finishing "Icebreaker"? We've got 10 titles you need to read next. Keep the heat on with these books that have “Icebreaker” vibes.

What to read next if you love “Icebreaker”

couple-using-ice-skates

Ready to take your next solo sesh to a whole new level? That's what Dipsea is for.

Dipsea is an app for Sexy Stories, Sleep Scenes, and Wellness Sessions designed to turn you on and then tuck you in.

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Get the story behind the spicy story, and meet the team building the next-gen of romance.

Dipsea | Blog

## The Hunt

Early 2025, Dipsea presents The Hunt, a spicy dark romance audiobook that blends forbidden attraction with ancient powers and dangerous secrets. For listeners who crave their romance with a supernatural edge and a dash of danger, this dark fantasy romance delivers an unforgettable journey into a hidden world of rituals, power, and passion.

### Where Mystery Meets Dark Romance

One year after her twin sister's mysterious disappearance, Vanessa breaks into a restricted wilderness preserve seeking answers. Instead, she stumbles upon an ancient ritual and catches the attention of Nolan—a powerful, dangerous guardian of supernatural secrets. What begins as a deadly encounter evolves into an intense attraction neither of them can resist, even as evil forces threaten to tear them apart.

### Dive Into Darkness
[Dark romance](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/what-is-dark-romance/) delves into the shadowier side of love, where danger and desire intertwine. It's a subgenre that explores complex relationships between morally gray characters, often pushing boundaries and featuring high-stakes emotional intensity. These stories aren't just about finding love—they're about the transformative power of passion in its most primal form.
*The Hunt* showcases beloved [dark romance tropes](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/dark-romance-tropes/), including:
- Enemies-to-lovers dynamics
- Forbidden attraction
- Complex power plays
- High-stakes passion
- CW: Contains mature themes and content

### Coming Early 2025
The Hunt launches exclusively on Dipsea, February 28. If you love Tiffany Reisz's [The Siren](https://app.thestorygraph.com/books/42a56621-563b-4034-9470-0bbda3d55cfa), Sierra Simone's [Priest](https://app.thestorygraph.com/books/5b2d3e7a-5cdb-4aa5-a7a1-7c4c5c246e24), or Anna Zaires's [Twist Me series](https://app.thestorygraph.com/books/ebdd8d9a-9ee5-418c-af3b-67c12e99a9c9), this dark supernatural romance is your next must-listen. Perfect for anyone who craves their audiobooks with an extra dose of danger and forbidden desire.

[Try Dipsea for 30 days](https://www.dipseastories.com/subscribe/?f=2&promo=blog&utm_source=blog&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=the-hunt-coming-soon) to be among the first to experience this intoxicating blend of supernatural mystery and dark romance. Follow Dipsea's social channels for exclusive previews, behind-the-scenes content, character spotlights, and release updates.

## The Hunt

Early 2025, Dipsea presents The Hunt, a spicy dark romance audiobook that blends forbidden attraction with ancient powers and dangerous secrets. For listeners who crave their romance with a supernatural edge and a dash of danger, this dark fantasy romance delivers an unforgettable journey into a hidden world of rituals, power, and passion.

### Where Mystery Meets Dark Romance

One year after her twin sister's mysterious disappearance, Vanessa breaks into a restricted wilderness preserve seeking answers. Instead, she stumbles upon an ancient ritual and catches the attention of Nolan—a powerful, dangerous guardian of supernatural secrets. What begins as a deadly encounter evolves into an intense attraction neither of them can resist, even as evil forces threaten to tear them apart.

### Dive Into Darkness
[Dark romance](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/what-is-dark-romance/) delves into the shadowier side of love, where danger and desire intertwine. It's a subgenre that explores complex relationships between morally gray characters, often pushing boundaries and featuring high-stakes emotional intensity. These stories aren't just about finding love—they're about the transformative power of passion in its most primal form.
*The Hunt* showcases beloved [dark romance tropes](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/dark-romance-tropes/), including:
- Enemies-to-lovers dynamics
- Forbidden attraction
- Complex power plays
- High-stakes passion
- CW: Contains mature themes and content


### Coming Early 2025
The Hunt launches exclusively on Dipsea, February 28. If you love Tiffany Reisz's [The Siren](https://app.thestorygraph.com/books/42a56621-563b-4034-9470-0bbda3d55cfa), Sierra Simone's [Priest](https://app.thestorygraph.com/books/5b2d3e7a-5cdb-4aa5-a7a1-7c4c5c246e24), or Anna Zaires's [Twist Me series](https://app.thestorygraph.com/books/ebdd8d9a-9ee5-418c-af3b-67c12e99a9c9), this dark supernatural romance is your next must-listen. Perfect for anyone who craves their audiobooks with an extra dose of danger and forbidden desire.

[Try Dipsea for 30 days](https://www.dipseastories.com/subscribe/?f=2&promo=blog&utm_source=blog&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=the-hunt-coming-soon) to be among the first to experience this intoxicating blend of supernatural mystery and dark romance. Follow Dipsea's social channels for exclusive previews, behind-the-scenes content, character spotlights, and release updates.

Dipsea’s “The Hunt” is a dark supernatural romance where forbidden attraction meets ancient powers. Perfect for fans of Tiffany Reisz and Sierra Simone.

The Hunt: A Dark Supernatural Romance Coming to Dipsea

The Hunt A Dark Supernatural Romance Coming Soon

No list of book recommendations would be complete without a juicy series, and there are far too many great series to not give them the spotlight with a “must read” round-up of their own.

Spicy romance books are best served in heaps, after all, and the spiciest tales seem to be tucked away in books two or three. Spoiler alert: I’ve read my fair share, and the further most series go, the steamier they get.

These are the best books for you if you’re looking for a long, smutty, multi-book journey you can get lost in.

## 1. [“A Court of Thorns and Roses” by Sarah J. Maas](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/50659467-a-court-of-thorns-and-roses)
![A-Court-of-Thorns-and-Roses](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/2ncJE7Lhc1uNEA9FQVFfC5/e869d795b771ca8351bf6c16b7c66a5f/A-Court-of-Thorns-and-Roses.jpg)

If you’ve come anywhere near TikTok in the last few years, I’d be amazed if you hadn’t heard of this series, even if [BookTok](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/spicy-booktok/) isn’t necessarily in your algorithm. What began as a “Beauty and the Beast” retelling evolved into an internet sensation with nearly 3 million Goodreads reviews and 38 million copies sold. 

So, what’s this megapopular [romantasy](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/romantasy-books/) series about?

Feyre supports her father and sisters on a meager living by hunting in the woods near her home, where she encounters a beast that has crept over the wall from the Fae lands. When she kills the creature for its pelt and its powerful lord seeks justice for its death, Feyre bargains with her life and agrees to join him in the forbidden Fae nation on the other side of the wall. 

Thrown into a world of terrifying magic, she goes on a journey that tests her courage and challenges her to do the one thing she swore never to do with a Fae: trust.

This is a [4-book enemies-to-lovers series (plus one novella)](https://www.goodreads.com/series/104014-a-court-of-thorns-and-roses) that gets better and better as you go. Far and away, my favorite book in this series is “A Court of Mist and Fury,” but there are heart-stopping moments throughout the entire story that will have you begging for more. 

And if you become obsessed with the author, SJM has two other popular spicy book series: [Throne of Glass](https://www.goodreads.com/series/51288-throne-of-glass) and [Crescent City](https://www.goodreads.com/series/233335-crescent-city).

## 2. [“From Blood and Ash” by Jennifer L. Armentrout](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/52831200-from-blood-and-ash)
![From-Blood-and-Ash](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/3sSYcgiBA35IHdEAxiNSGd/48557fde57350a3cd0e2e8d9d3aeea70/From-Blood-and-Ash.jpg)

Good gracious, where to begin...I love a good bodyguard trope, I love a slow burn, and oh, boy, do I love a new take on vampire lore.

Poppy has been forced into life as the veiled, hidden away Maiden for as long as she can remember, never to be touched or known by anyone. She’s supposed to remain pure for the Ascension that will usher in a new era for the kingdom if the gods find her worthy. While such a life has never satisfied her, Poppy is resigned to her fate, but when Hawke, a new royal guard, is assigned to protect her, everything changes.

Five books in with a sixth book on the way, the Blood and Ash series also boasts a spin-off series: Flesh and Fire (four books so far!), which exists in the same world. You’ll have *plenty* of fantasy romance to read!

## 3. [“Twisted Love” by Ana Huang](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/55817097-twisted-love)
![Twisted-Love-by-Ana-Huang](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/2fY0QLOHOXW71rAk4cdQja/553a35f07e00ea99dd74af09ad2c2abf/Twisted-Love-by-Ana-Huang.jpg)

Listen, contemporary romance is a wide and wonderful spectrum, and if you’re looking to dip your toes into the darker end of the pool, this is a good series to start with.

Opposites attract between morally gray millionaire Alex Volkov and college student Ava Chen in the first book of the Twisted series. (Major grumpy/sunshine vibes.) When Alex is asked to look after his best friend’s sister, Ava, secrets unfold that threaten the connection brewing between them.

If “Twisted Love” turns out to be up your alley, definitely add Ana Huang’s “King of Wrath” to your list, too!

## 4. [“Neon Gods” by Katee Robert](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/54659771-neon-gods)
![Neon-Gods](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/5XvjUa3pJemaGEwTDNpv9a/8de26ea9c341e28b5848198ef5305361/Neon-Gods.jpg)

Want to turn up the [dark romance](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/what-is-dark-romance/) dial just a tad? Olympus takes on a whole new vibe in this steamy romance series that brings Hades and Persephone into a twisted and delectable world of dominance and submission.

A surprise engagement to Zeus has socialite Persephone bolting for safety and striking a bargain with Hades, the man who rules the undercity with trades and secrets. But what starts as a desperate agreement quickly grows into much more.

Each book in the Dark Olympus series follows a different couple, though there are references to other characters throughout. “Electric Idol” features Eros and Psyche, and “Wicked Beauty” explores Achilles, Patroclus, *and* Helen...there are no rules in this series.

## 5. [“Beautiful Bastard” by Christina Lauren](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16102004-beautiful-bastard)
![Beautiful-Bastard-by-Christina-Lauren](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/hEnIj5mFMmJ2qBDSWI19u/6ba6358ce7a9a7a0fe649f40be372be8/Beautiful-Bastard-by-Christina-Lauren.jpg)

I really had not thought I was a contemporary romance girly, and workplace romances were definitely not my thing...and then I read this series. HOLY. SMOKES.

Book one introduces main characters Chloe and Bennett, who cannot stand each other but are forced to work together, and if that doesn’t already sound like a recipe for * ahem * tension, I don’t know what does. A few unexpected steamy encounters (the office elevator, guys? *Really*?) lead to some big feelings that neither one of them bargained for. 

My favorite of this spicy book series is “Beautiful Secret,” but I beg of you, do NOT skip to book four just to get to Niall and Ruby faster! They’re achingly adorable, but the rest of the books are every bit as sexy and delicious.

## 6. [“Forbidden Fruit” on Dipsea](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/forbidden-fruit-series/)
![Forbidden-Fruit](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/6sHvw58Sn5quED9g38Qkmw/f98e30338533406710145e6170386992/Forbidden-Fruit.jpg)

If it’s a Hades and Persephone retelling you’re after (always), I beg you to listen to “Forbidden Fruit.” This exploration of our favorite King of the Underworld and Goddess of Spring is every bit as stunningly sexy as the Dark Olympus series while hitting every emotional note you’d expect from one of the oldest and most emotionally riveting tales there is. Plus the narrators in this full-cast audiobook will have you blushing—Hades sounds like Tom Hiddleston (* swoon *) and Persephone sounds like golden honey.

## 7. [“Gods & Men” on Dipsea](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/gods-and-men-series/)
![Gods-&-Men-on-Dipsea](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/2M6bwsdHmzNYHlJjpiFO9D/9e1e402a0c806e3b48a0ae4827e3e783/Gods-_-Men-on-Dipsea.jpg)

When you’re done with “Forbidden Fruit” but don’t want to leave the land of the gods just yet, please please *please* give “Gods & Men,” another full-cast audiobook, a listen.

Sun god Apollo and Spartan prince Hyacinthus are unlikely friends after a chance encounter on the battlefield. When they start spending more time together, a bond forms that neither one anticipated.

Wait, there’s also [“Goddess of the Hunt”](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/goddess-of-the-hunt-series/) with Artemis! Ugh, there’s a bottomless well of beautiful spice... 

## 8. [“Icebreaker” by Hannah Grace](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61767292-icebreaker)
![Icebreaker-by-Hannah-Grace](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/6IV7RE9UZKtUugKZLwv0W9/1a7fabeaff5439d2bbc73671a4e73c4b/Icebreaker-by-Hannah-Grace.jpg)

(Psst—if you’ve already read this romance novel and want to stock your Kindle with more like it, check out [our list of books like “Icebreaker.”](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/books-like-icebreaker/))

My best friend convinced me to read “Icebreaker” a while ago, and while I’d already known how much I love a good hockey romance, the Maple Hills series brought a little something extra to my TBR.

Nate Hawkins spends his days as captain of his university’s hockey team wrangling some big personalities, but none knock him on his butt quite like Anastasia (“Stassie”) Allen. When a sudden issue at the ice rink forces the team to use the figure skating rink instead, Nate finds himself in Stassie’s crosshairs. No one messes with her figure skating practice and escapes unscathed.

The tension between these two practically glistens off the page, but you’ll just have to read it to fully appreciate the emotional journey of this [sports romance](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/sports-romance-books/). * Swoon! *

“Wildfire” is book two, and book three of the spicy book series is “Daydream,” featuring a delightful fan-favorite character. I can’t wait.

__Looking for more steamy stories full of spicy scenes? [Dipsea’s collection of audiobooks](https://www.dipseastories.com/) is a haven for romance readers in need of a good love story — or many.____

No list of book recommendations would be complete without a juicy series, and there are far too many great series to not give them the spotlight with a “must read” round-up of their own.

Spicy romance books are best served in heaps, after all, and the spiciest tales seem to be tucked away in books two or three. Spoiler alert: I’ve read my fair share, and the further most series go, the steamier they get.

These are the best books for you if you’re looking for a long, smutty, multi-book journey you can get lost in.

## 1. [“A Court of Thorns and Roses” by Sarah J. Maas](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/50659467-a-court-of-thorns-and-roses)
![A-Court-of-Thorns-and-Roses](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/2ncJE7Lhc1uNEA9FQVFfC5/e869d795b771ca8351bf6c16b7c66a5f/A-Court-of-Thorns-and-Roses.jpg)

If you’ve come anywhere near TikTok in the last few years, I’d be amazed if you hadn’t heard of this series, even if [BookTok](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/spicy-booktok/) isn’t necessarily in your algorithm. What began as a “Beauty and the Beast” retelling evolved into an internet sensation with nearly 3 million Goodreads reviews and 38 million copies sold. 

So, what’s this megapopular [romantasy](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/romantasy-books/) series about?

Feyre supports her father and sisters on a meager living by hunting in the woods near her home, where she encounters a beast that has crept over the wall from the Fae lands. When she kills the creature for its pelt and its powerful lord seeks justice for its death, Feyre bargains with her life and agrees to join him in the forbidden Fae nation on the other side of the wall. 

Thrown into a world of terrifying magic, she goes on a journey that tests her courage and challenges her to do the one thing she swore never to do with a Fae: trust.

This is a [4-book enemies-to-lovers series (plus one novella)](https://www.goodreads.com/series/104014-a-court-of-thorns-and-roses) that gets better and better as you go. Far and away, my favorite book in this series is “A Court of Mist and Fury,” but there are heart-stopping moments throughout the entire story that will have you begging for more. 

And if you become obsessed with the author, SJM has two other popular spicy book series: [Throne of Glass](https://www.goodreads.com/series/51288-throne-of-glass) and [Crescent City](https://www.goodreads.com/series/233335-crescent-city).

## 2. [“From Blood and Ash” by Jennifer L. Armentrout](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/52831200-from-blood-and-ash)
![From-Blood-and-Ash](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/3sSYcgiBA35IHdEAxiNSGd/48557fde57350a3cd0e2e8d9d3aeea70/From-Blood-and-Ash.jpg)

Good gracious, where to begin...I love a good bodyguard trope, I love a slow burn, and oh, boy, do I love a new take on vampire lore.

Poppy has been forced into life as the veiled, hidden away Maiden for as long as she can remember, never to be touched or known by anyone. She’s supposed to remain pure for the Ascension that will usher in a new era for the kingdom if the gods find her worthy. While such a life has never satisfied her, Poppy is resigned to her fate, but when Hawke, a new royal guard, is assigned to protect her, everything changes.

Five books in with a sixth book on the way, the Blood and Ash series also boasts a spin-off series: Flesh and Fire (four books so far!), which exists in the same world. You’ll have *plenty* of fantasy romance to read!

## 3. [“Twisted Love” by Ana Huang](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/55817097-twisted-love)
![Twisted-Love-by-Ana-Huang](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/2fY0QLOHOXW71rAk4cdQja/553a35f07e00ea99dd74af09ad2c2abf/Twisted-Love-by-Ana-Huang.jpg)

Listen, contemporary romance is a wide and wonderful spectrum, and if you’re looking to dip your toes into the darker end of the pool, this is a good series to start with.

Opposites attract between morally gray millionaire Alex Volkov and college student Ava Chen in the first book of the Twisted series. (Major grumpy/sunshine vibes.) When Alex is asked to look after his best friend’s sister, Ava, secrets unfold that threaten the connection brewing between them.

If “Twisted Love” turns out to be up your alley, definitely add Ana Huang’s “King of Wrath” to your list, too!

## 4. [“Neon Gods” by Katee Robert](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/54659771-neon-gods)
![Neon-Gods](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/5XvjUa3pJemaGEwTDNpv9a/8de26ea9c341e28b5848198ef5305361/Neon-Gods.jpg)

Want to turn up the [dark romance](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/what-is-dark-romance/) dial just a tad? Olympus takes on a whole new vibe in this steamy romance series that brings Hades and Persephone into a twisted and delectable world of dominance and submission.

A surprise engagement to Zeus has socialite Persephone bolting for safety and striking a bargain with Hades, the man who rules the undercity with trades and secrets. But what starts as a desperate agreement quickly grows into much more.

Each book in the Dark Olympus series follows a different couple, though there are references to other characters throughout. “Electric Idol” features Eros and Psyche, and “Wicked Beauty” explores Achilles, Patroclus, *and* Helen...there are no rules in this series.

## 5. [“Beautiful Bastard” by Christina Lauren](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16102004-beautiful-bastard)
![Beautiful-Bastard-by-Christina-Lauren](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/hEnIj5mFMmJ2qBDSWI19u/6ba6358ce7a9a7a0fe649f40be372be8/Beautiful-Bastard-by-Christina-Lauren.jpg)

I really had not thought I was a contemporary romance girly, and workplace romances were definitely not my thing...and then I read this series. HOLY. SMOKES.

Book one introduces main characters Chloe and Bennett, who cannot stand each other but are forced to work together, and if that doesn’t already sound like a recipe for * ahem * tension, I don’t know what does. A few unexpected steamy encounters (the office elevator, guys? *Really*?) lead to some big feelings that neither one of them bargained for. 

My favorite of this spicy book series is “Beautiful Secret,” but I beg of you, do NOT skip to book four just to get to Niall and Ruby faster! They’re achingly adorable, but the rest of the books are every bit as sexy and delicious.

## 6. [“Forbidden Fruit” on Dipsea](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/forbidden-fruit-series/)
![Forbidden-Fruit](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/6sHvw58Sn5quED9g38Qkmw/f98e30338533406710145e6170386992/Forbidden-Fruit.jpg)

If it’s a Hades and Persephone retelling you’re after (always), I beg you to listen to “Forbidden Fruit.” This exploration of our favorite King of the Underworld and Goddess of Spring is every bit as stunningly sexy as the Dark Olympus series while hitting every emotional note you’d expect from one of the oldest and most emotionally riveting tales there is. Plus the narrators in this full-cast audiobook will have you blushing—Hades sounds like Tom Hiddleston (* swoon *) and Persephone sounds like golden honey.

## 7. [“Gods & Men” on Dipsea](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/gods-and-men-series/)
![Gods-&-Men-on-Dipsea](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/2M6bwsdHmzNYHlJjpiFO9D/9e1e402a0c806e3b48a0ae4827e3e783/Gods-_-Men-on-Dipsea.jpg)

When you’re done with “Forbidden Fruit” but don’t want to leave the land of the gods just yet, please please *please* give “Gods & Men,” another full-cast audiobook, a listen.

Sun god Apollo and Spartan prince Hyacinthus are unlikely friends after a chance encounter on the battlefield. When they start spending more time together, a bond forms that neither one anticipated.

Wait, there’s also [“Goddess of the Hunt”](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/goddess-of-the-hunt-series/) with Artemis! Ugh, there’s a bottomless well of beautiful spice... 

## 8. [“Icebreaker” by Hannah Grace](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61767292-icebreaker)
![Icebreaker-by-Hannah-Grace](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/6IV7RE9UZKtUugKZLwv0W9/1a7fabeaff5439d2bbc73671a4e73c4b/Icebreaker-by-Hannah-Grace.jpg)

(Psst—if you’ve already read this romance novel and want to stock your Kindle with more like it, check out [our list of books like “Icebreaker.”](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/books-like-icebreaker/))

My best friend convinced me to read “Icebreaker” a while ago, and while I’d already known how much I love a good hockey romance, the Maple Hills series brought a little something extra to my TBR.

Nate Hawkins spends his days as captain of his university’s hockey team wrangling some big personalities, but none knock him on his butt quite like Anastasia (“Stassie”) Allen. When a sudden issue at the ice rink forces the team to use the figure skating rink instead, Nate finds himself in Stassie’s crosshairs. No one messes with her figure skating practice and escapes unscathed.

The tension between these two practically glistens off the page, but you’ll just have to read it to fully appreciate the emotional journey of this [sports romance](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/sports-romance-books/). * Swoon! *

__“Wildfire” is book two, and book three of the spicy book series is “Daydream,” featuring a delightful fan-favorite character. I can’t wait.
Looking for more steamy stories full of spicy scenes? [Dipsea’s collection of audiobooks](https://www.dipseastories.com/) is a haven for romance readers in need of a good love story — or many.__

TikTok loves these spicy book series, and we do too! From mega-popular romantasies to cute sports romances to dark romance, these series hook you.

8 spicy book series that get better with each book

shelves-filled-with-books

We’ve all been there: You just finished an incredible, emotional, exquisite five-star read and now it’s over. Welcome to the book hangover (it’s awful, I’m so sorry you’re here). 

Finishing the “[A Court of Thorns and Roses](https://www.goodreads.com/series/104014-a-court-of-thorns-and-roses)” (ACOTAR) series leaves many readers desperate for more. What is it that makes this fantasy romance series so good we can’t put it down? Is it the world building? The badass characters? The forbidden romance trope and spicy scenes? Or maybe it’s the [touch her and die](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/touch-her-and-die-trope/) energy that’s threaded throughout each novel. 

But now that you’ve finished “[A Court of Silver Flames](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/53138095-a-court-of-silver-flames)” and you’re caught up with the series (well, for now), what comes next? 

The way I see it, you have two options once you finish the ACOTAR series. One, you start right back at the beginning and just read them on a loop forever. Or, you can check out one of these fantasy romance books and find your new favorite obsession.

Here are the best books like A Court of Thorns and Roses:

## 1. “[Throne of Glass](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/76703559-throne-of-glass?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_15)” by Sarah J. Maas
![Throne-of-Glass-by-Sarah-J.-Maas](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/6HWIoO0C6TBL478Hykr0eY/c0130d9fb697f8e59ef6d8ff7bf543a7/Throne-of-Glass-by-Sarah-J.-Maas.jpg)

The most logical thing to do once you’ve finished ACOTAR is to start working your way through the rest of the Sarah J. Mass Universe. 

Start with the Throne of Glass series, an 8-book series that follows Celaena Sardothien, a deadly assassin who is competing for a shot at freedom. Honestly, I thought I loved Feyre the most until Celaena came into my life. You’ll fall in love with this character.

You’ll find a lot of info out there about the reading order of Throne of Glass—when I tell you there’s DRAMA in [the BookTok world](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/spicy-booktok/) for what order is best! 

People have opinions on when to read “Assassin’s Blade,” which is a prequel. And some people swear by reading “Empire of Storms” and “Tower of Dawn” at the same time, since they take place simultaneously. There are guides for starting and stopping points in these two books that will have you tabbing your books with 100+ sticky notes.

For the most emotional storytelling (and ease, TBH), simply read the books in the order they were released. [It’s what SJM herself recommends](https://www.tiktok.com/@mybookishadventure/video/7325579736351034655?lang=en), after all:

1. Throne of Glass
2. Crown of Midnight
3. Assassin’s Blade
4. Heir of Fire
5. Queen of Shadows
6. Empire of Storms
7. Tower of Dawn
8. Kingdom of Ash

## 2. “[House of Earth and Blood](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/44778083-house-of-earth-and-blood)” by Sarah J. Maas
![House-of-Earth-and-Blood-by-Sarah-J.-Maas](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/6acXfUGSTRDm4UXZ2i8XlM/65af9dffcaf583dccf1b324eb94bc36e/House-of-Earth-and-Blood-by-Sarah-J.-Maas.jpg)

After you’ve finished ACOTAR and Throne of Glass, you can start “House of Earth and Blood,” the first in the ongoing urban fantasy Crescent City series that follows half-human, half-fae Bryce and a fallen angel, Hunt.

Going from the lands of flowing rivers and riding on horseback in ACOTAR to a large city with smartphones and nail salons can feel a bit jarring, but you’ll find the same adventure, romance, and world building you’ve come to love from SJM. These books are dense and definitely more complicated than ACOTAR, but if you stick with it, the payoff is so, so worth it.

## 3. “[Fourth Wing](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61431922-fourth-wing?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_3)” by Rebecca Yarros
![Fourth-Wing](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/6uaNfA3SoTYdayDozQs6cf/12cef574313eba6620c2cf6dece921fa/Fourth-Wing.jpg)

It’s nearly impossible to [scroll BookTok](https://www.tiktok.com/tag/booktok) without seeing someone recommend “Fourth Wing”—and for good reason! 

Violet was planning for a quiet first year at Basgiath War College—well, as quiet as war college can be—as she trained to be a scribe. But her mother (the commanding general of the army) orders her into the Riders Quadrant. Now instead of spending her days surrounded by books, she’s fighting for her life trying to bond a dragon, train to be a dragon rider, and dodge the attempts on her life by fellow cadets.

Xaden has no reason to trust or like Violet—in fact, she should be Public Enemy Number One. But when he develops a vested interest in her survival, he starts to train her to make her strong enough to survive the Riders Quadrant and the war that rages outside their country’s protected wards.

“Fourth Wing” is the first book in the Empyrean Series and the sequel, “Iron Flame," is out now. The next book, “Onyx Storm,” drops in January 2025, so now is the perfect time to dive into this [enemies-to-lovers fantasy series](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/enemies-to-lovers-fantasy-books/)!

## 4. “[Quicksilver](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/212127083-quicksilver)” by Callie Hart
![Quicksilver-by-Callie-Hart](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/5dHgXw65QUVVobnG2kSPK9/d2749d37fc2604c01729e93b58874d08/Quicksilver-by-Callie-Hart.jpg)

Saeris lives in the barren, desert wasteland of Zilvaren known as the Third and over the years she’s gotten good at picking pockets and sneakily thieving from the reserve of the Undying Queen.

When Saeris accidentally binds herself to Kingfisher, the dangerous (and dangerously hot) fae warrior, she finds herself in a land that’s far more threatening than the one she left behind.

When I say this [fantasy romance](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/romantasy-books/) is a must-read, I mean it! As an added bonus, it’s on Kindle Unlimited, so if you already pay for that, this book is basically free (girl math!).

## 5. “The Cruel Prince” by Holly Black
![The-Cruel-Prince](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/4H0F9mgxjATSkuFUQEpV5L/34d8b0d5c998e2ed3fd9742de7ef9675/The-Cruel-Prince.jpg)

Jude was just a kid when her parents were killed and she and her sisters were captured and brought to live under the ruling of the High Court of Faeries. Despite nearly a decade in this world, the faes still haven’t accepted her due to her human status. 

Faerie prince Cardan hates humans, Jude included. If Jude wants to secure a place in the High Court, she has to go up against Cardan to prove herself. 

Just keep in mind that unlike ACOTAR, this young adult series doesn’t have open-door spice.

## 6. “[From Blood and Ash](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/52831200-from-blood-and-ash?ref=nav_sb_ss_2_3)” by Jennifer L. Armentrout
![From-Blood-and-Ash](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/3sSYcgiBA35IHdEAxiNSGd/48557fde57350a3cd0e2e8d9d3aeea70/From-Blood-and-Ash.jpg)

As the Maiden, Poppy is forced to live in solitude and she is not happy about it. She’d rather be on the front lines, fighting back against the forces that took her family, but instead she’s bound by duty to ensure she’s found worthy by the gods.

When she’s assigned a new bodyguard, Hawke, things take an interesting turn (listen, life as the Maiden is really boring!). With every hour spent together, Poppy becomes more and more agitated, fighting against the guardrails of her duty and questioning the stories she’s been told. 

## 7. “[Wings of Winter](https://www.dipseastories.com/series/wings-of-winter-series/)” by Dipsea
![Wings-of-Winter-by-Dipsea-small](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/2LxXAy5azxnAxxZjuFVdRp/4b9e83e87037dca84edce1fc60a0137a/Wings-of-Winter-by-Dipsea.jpg)

“Wings of Winter” features Rowan, a fae prince, and you (that’s right, you’re the main character in this story—a true fairytale!). The story picks up the night before The Gleaning, a Hunger Games-esque tournament between mortals and immortals alike (it’s giving Feyre Under the Mountain). Since you’re a human up against magical creatures, Rowan feels a protective pull to you (and he’s beyond irritated about it).

If you’re intimidated by the deadly tournament, you don’t let it show. You’re a human but you can hold your ground! But as The Gleaning rages on, Rowan’s protective presence is like a constant shadow.

This captivating high fantasy audiobook is told across 13 chapters, and will have you on the edge of your seat. Once you’re done, get a [behind-the-scenes look](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/the-making-of-wings-of-winter/) at how Wings of Winter came to life! 

## 8. “[The Bridge Kingdom](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/53921926-the-bridge-kingdom)” by Danielle L. Jensen
![The-Bridge-Kingdom-by-Danielle-L.-Jensen](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/5Zibzdtpz5aUEI8Bxd2Dk7/86d0da8f4cee83bd5585f33f8978dbe4/The-Bridge-Kingdom-by-Danielle-L.-Jensen.jpg)

When Lara is given the chance to wed King Aren, the monarch of an enemy kingdom, she jumps at the chance. She’s trained her whole life to take him down, and now she has the opportunity of the century to hatch a plan from the inside.

But once she’s behind enemy lines, Lara begins to question everything she thought she knew about the war and this rival kingdom. She swore to hate—and kill—the king, but every day spent together has her wondering if everything she thought she knew is wrong.

The first four books in this addicting series are out now with two more planned for the future.

## 9. “[Six of Crows](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23437156-six-of-crows?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_8)” by Leigh Bardugo
![Six-of-Crows-by-Leigh-Bardugo](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/6tRTuRvWJDzGFg4vU2kuEg/07baf900cae2e0e9a033fcc945603543/Six-of-Crows-by-Leigh-Bardugo.jpg)

Kaz may be a criminal prodigy but even he can’t pull off this next heist alone. He assembles a ragtag team of fellow teenage criminals to help him and the six of them band together (despite their differences) to take on the deadly task in front of them. 

Told through multiple points of view, this story has characters that are so deep and complex. Combine that with the jam-packed plot and you’ve got a perfect read!

When you finish, be sure to pick right back up with “Crooked Kingdom,” the second in the fantasy book duology. This series is set in the same universe as Bardugo’s [Shadow and Bone](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/10194157-shadow-and-bone) series, but you can absolutely read it as a standalone.

## 10. “[The Serpent and the Wings of Night](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60714999-the-serpent-and-the-wings-of-night?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_7)” by Carissa Broadbent
![The-Serpent-and-the-Wings-of-Night](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/2J5cIksmSGToqpJNIE4qLo/eaa55c4fc5ca8f14d8ddadc7bbd0d30f/The-Serpent-and-the-Wings-of-Night.jpg)

As a human raised by a vampire king, Oraya is used to being the odd woman out. Still, she’s determined to make a name and place for herself in this world, so she enters the Kejari, a deadly tournament. 

Oraya has plenty of enemies in this tournament, but her best shot at survival is to form alliances (keep your friends close and your enemies closer). To increase her chances of survival, she strikes a deal with Raihn, one of the most dangerous and powerful vampires in the game. But while Oraya has sworn her alliance to Raihn, learning to trust him is another thing entirely. 

This fantasy novel is the first in the Crowns of Nyaxia series, and is the perfect antidote for your ACOTAR hangover.

## 11. “[Powerless](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/75513900-powerless?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_24)” by Lauren Roberts
![Powerless-by-Lauren-Roberts](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/3tprmmvNuhZGsW9HJYa276/e9d1462da657ce0a5e0691e930227dd5/Powerless-by-Lauren-Roberts.jpg)

Paedyn is Ordinary and in the kingdom of Ilya, that’s not just an insult—it’s illegal. Determined to stay out of the spotlight, she poses as a Psychic in the kingdom of Elites to try and blend in. 

When she unknowingly saves the life of one of the kingdom’s princes, she’s “rewarded” by being thrown into the Purging Trials, a competition designed to showcase the talents of the Elites. With everything on the line, can Paedyn fool everyone and survive?

__Find more [fantasy romance](https://www.dipseastories.com/tags/fantasy-tag/) favorites on Dipsea, the app for original spicy audiobooks and more!__

We’ve all been there: You just finished an incredible, emotional, exquisite five-star read and now it’s over. Welcome to the book hangover (it’s awful, I’m so sorry you’re here). 

Finishing the “[A Court of Thorns and Roses](https://www.goodreads.com/series/104014-a-court-of-thorns-and-roses)” (ACOTAR) series leaves many readers desperate for more. What is it that makes this fantasy romance series so good we can’t put it down? Is it the world building? The badass characters? The forbidden romance trope and spicy scenes? Or maybe it’s the [touch her and die](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/touch-her-and-die-trope/) energy that’s threaded throughout each novel. 

But now that you’ve finished “[A Court of Silver Flames](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/53138095-a-court-of-silver-flames)” and you’re caught up with the series (well, for now), what comes next? 

The way I see it, you have two options once you finish the ACOTAR series. One, you start right back at the beginning and just read them on a loop forever. Or, you can check out one of these fantasy romance books and find your new favorite obsession.

Here are the best books like A Court of Thorns and Roses:

## 1. “[Throne of Glass](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/76703559-throne-of-glass?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_15)” by Sarah J. Maas
![Throne-of-Glass-by-Sarah-J.-Maas](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/6HWIoO0C6TBL478Hykr0eY/c0130d9fb697f8e59ef6d8ff7bf543a7/Throne-of-Glass-by-Sarah-J.-Maas.jpg)

The most logical thing to do once you’ve finished ACOTAR is to start working your way through the rest of the Sarah J. Mass Universe. 

Start with the Throne of Glass series, an 8-book series that follows Celaena Sardothien, a deadly assassin who is competing for a shot at freedom. Honestly, I thought I loved Feyre the most until Celaena came into my life. You’ll fall in love with this character.

You’ll find a lot of info out there about the reading order of Throne of Glass—when I tell you there’s DRAMA in [the BookTok world](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/spicy-booktok/) for what order is best! 

People have opinions on when to read “Assassin’s Blade,” which is a prequel. And some people swear by reading “Empire of Storms” and “Tower of Dawn” at the same time, since they take place simultaneously. There are guides for starting and stopping points in these two books that will have you tabbing your books with 100+ sticky notes.

For the most emotional storytelling (and ease, TBH), simply read the books in the order they were released. [It’s what SJM herself recommends](https://www.tiktok.com/@mybookishadventure/video/7325579736351034655?lang=en), after all:

1. Throne of Glass
2. Crown of Midnight
3. Assassin’s Blade
4. Heir of Fire
5. Queen of Shadows
6. Empire of Storms
7. Tower of Dawn
8. Kingdom of Ash

## 2. “[House of Earth and Blood](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/44778083-house-of-earth-and-blood)” by Sarah J. Maas
![House-of-Earth-and-Blood-by-Sarah-J.-Maas](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/6acXfUGSTRDm4UXZ2i8XlM/65af9dffcaf583dccf1b324eb94bc36e/House-of-Earth-and-Blood-by-Sarah-J.-Maas.jpg)

After you’ve finished ACOTAR and Throne of Glass, you can start “House of Earth and Blood,” the first in the ongoing urban fantasy Crescent City series that follows half-human, half-fae Bryce and a fallen angel, Hunt.

Going from the lands of flowing rivers and riding on horseback in ACOTAR to a large city with smartphones and nail salons can feel a bit jarring, but you’ll find the same adventure, romance, and world building you’ve come to love from SJM. These books are dense and definitely more complicated than ACOTAR, but if you stick with it, the payoff is so, so worth it.

## 3. “[Fourth Wing](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61431922-fourth-wing?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_3)” by Rebecca Yarros
![Fourth-Wing](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/6uaNfA3SoTYdayDozQs6cf/12cef574313eba6620c2cf6dece921fa/Fourth-Wing.jpg)

It’s nearly impossible to [scroll BookTok](https://www.tiktok.com/tag/booktok) without seeing someone recommend “Fourth Wing”—and for good reason! 

Violet was planning for a quiet first year at Basgiath War College—well, as quiet as war college can be—as she trained to be a scribe. But her mother (the commanding general of the army) orders her into the Riders Quadrant. Now instead of spending her days surrounded by books, she’s fighting for her life trying to bond a dragon, train to be a dragon rider, and dodge the attempts on her life by fellow cadets.

Xaden has no reason to trust or like Violet—in fact, she should be Public Enemy Number One. But when he develops a vested interest in her survival, he starts to train her to make her strong enough to survive the Riders Quadrant and the war that rages outside their country’s protected wards.

“Fourth Wing” is the first book in the Empyrean Series and the sequel, “Iron Flame," is out now. The next book, “Onyx Storm,” drops in January 2025, so now is the perfect time to dive into this [enemies-to-lovers fantasy series](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/enemies-to-lovers-fantasy-books/)!

## 4. “[Quicksilver](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/212127083-quicksilver)” by Callie Hart
![Quicksilver-by-Callie-Hart](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/5dHgXw65QUVVobnG2kSPK9/d2749d37fc2604c01729e93b58874d08/Quicksilver-by-Callie-Hart.jpg)

Saeris lives in the barren, desert wasteland of Zilvaren known as the Third and over the years she’s gotten good at picking pockets and sneakily thieving from the reserve of the Undying Queen.

When Saeris accidentally binds herself to Kingfisher, the dangerous (and dangerously hot) fae warrior, she finds herself in a land that’s far more threatening than the one she left behind.

When I say this [fantasy romance](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/romantasy-books/) is a must-read, I mean it! As an added bonus, it’s on Kindle Unlimited, so if you already pay for that, this book is basically free (girl math!).

## 5. “The Cruel Prince” by Holly Black
![The-Cruel-Prince](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/4H0F9mgxjATSkuFUQEpV5L/34d8b0d5c998e2ed3fd9742de7ef9675/The-Cruel-Prince.jpg)

Jude was just a kid when her parents were killed and she and her sisters were captured and brought to live under the ruling of the High Court of Faeries. Despite nearly a decade in this world, the faes still haven’t accepted her due to her human status. 

Faerie prince Cardan hates humans, Jude included. If Jude wants to secure a place in the High Court, she has to go up against Cardan to prove herself. 

Just keep in mind that unlike ACOTAR, this young adult series doesn’t have open-door spice.

## 6. “[From Blood and Ash](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/52831200-from-blood-and-ash?ref=nav_sb_ss_2_3)” by Jennifer L. Armentrout
![From-Blood-and-Ash](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/3sSYcgiBA35IHdEAxiNSGd/48557fde57350a3cd0e2e8d9d3aeea70/From-Blood-and-Ash.jpg)

As the Maiden, Poppy is forced to live in solitude and she is not happy about it. She’d rather be on the front lines, fighting back against the forces that took her family, but instead she’s bound by duty to ensure she’s found worthy by the gods.

When she’s assigned a new bodyguard, Hawke, things take an interesting turn (listen, life as the Maiden is really boring!). With every hour spent together, Poppy becomes more and more agitated, fighting against the guardrails of her duty and questioning the stories she’s been told. 

## 7. “[Wings of Winter](https://www.dipseastories.com/series/wings-of-winter-series/)” by Dipsea
![Wings-of-Winter-by-Dipsea-small](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/2LxXAy5azxnAxxZjuFVdRp/4b9e83e87037dca84edce1fc60a0137a/Wings-of-Winter-by-Dipsea.jpg)

“Wings of Winter” features Rowan, a fae prince, and you (that’s right, you’re the main character in this story—a true fairytale!). The story picks up the night before The Gleaning, a Hunger Games-esque tournament between mortals and immortals alike (it’s giving Feyre Under the Mountain). Since you’re a human up against magical creatures, Rowan feels a protective pull to you (and he’s beyond irritated about it).

If you’re intimidated by the deadly tournament, you don’t let it show. You’re a human but you can hold your ground! But as The Gleaning rages on, Rowan’s protective presence is like a constant shadow.

This captivating high fantasy audiobook is told across 13 chapters, and will have you on the edge of your seat. Once you’re done, get a [behind-the-scenes look](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/the-making-of-wings-of-winter/) at how Wings of Winter came to life! 

## 8. “[The Bridge Kingdom](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/53921926-the-bridge-kingdom)” by Danielle L. Jensen
![The-Bridge-Kingdom-by-Danielle-L.-Jensen](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/5Zibzdtpz5aUEI8Bxd2Dk7/86d0da8f4cee83bd5585f33f8978dbe4/The-Bridge-Kingdom-by-Danielle-L.-Jensen.jpg)

When Lara is given the chance to wed King Aren, the monarch of an enemy kingdom, she jumps at the chance. She’s trained her whole life to take him down, and now she has the opportunity of the century to hatch a plan from the inside.

But once she’s behind enemy lines, Lara begins to question everything she thought she knew about the war and this rival kingdom. She swore to hate—and kill—the king, but every day spent together has her wondering if everything she thought she knew is wrong.

The first four books in this addicting series are out now with two more planned for the future.

## 9. “[Six of Crows](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23437156-six-of-crows?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_8)” by Leigh Bardugo
![Six-of-Crows-by-Leigh-Bardugo](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/6tRTuRvWJDzGFg4vU2kuEg/07baf900cae2e0e9a033fcc945603543/Six-of-Crows-by-Leigh-Bardugo.jpg)

Kaz may be a criminal prodigy but even he can’t pull off this next heist alone. He assembles a ragtag team of fellow teenage criminals to help him and the six of them band together (despite their differences) to take on the deadly task in front of them. 

Told through multiple points of view, this story has characters that are so deep and complex. Combine that with the jam-packed plot and you’ve got a perfect read!

When you finish, be sure to pick right back up with “Crooked Kingdom,” the second in the fantasy book duology. This series is set in the same universe as Bardugo’s [Shadow and Bone](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/10194157-shadow-and-bone) series, but you can absolutely read it as a standalone.

## 10. “[The Serpent and the Wings of Night](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60714999-the-serpent-and-the-wings-of-night?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_7)” by Carissa Broadbent
![The-Serpent-and-the-Wings-of-Night](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/2J5cIksmSGToqpJNIE4qLo/eaa55c4fc5ca8f14d8ddadc7bbd0d30f/The-Serpent-and-the-Wings-of-Night.jpg)

As a human raised by a vampire king, Oraya is used to being the odd woman out. Still, she’s determined to make a name and place for herself in this world, so she enters the Kejari, a deadly tournament. 

Oraya has plenty of enemies in this tournament, but her best shot at survival is to form alliances (keep your friends close and your enemies closer). To increase her chances of survival, she strikes a deal with Raihn, one of the most dangerous and powerful vampires in the game. But while Oraya has sworn her alliance to Raihn, learning to trust him is another thing entirely. 

This fantasy novel is the first in the Crowns of Nyaxia series, and is the perfect antidote for your ACOTAR hangover.

## 11. “[Powerless](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/75513900-powerless?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_24)” by Lauren Roberts
![Powerless-by-Lauren-Roberts](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/3tprmmvNuhZGsW9HJYa276/e9d1462da657ce0a5e0691e930227dd5/Powerless-by-Lauren-Roberts.jpg)

Paedyn is Ordinary and in the kingdom of Ilya, that’s not just an insult—it’s illegal. Determined to stay out of the spotlight, she poses as a Psychic in the kingdom of Elites to try and blend in. 

When she unknowingly saves the life of one of the kingdom’s princes, she’s “rewarded” by being thrown into the Purging Trials, a competition designed to showcase the talents of the Elites. With everything on the line, can Paedyn fool everyone and survive?

__Find more [fantasy romance](https://www.dipseastories.com/tags/fantasy-tag/) favorites on Dipsea, the app for original spicy audiobooks and more!__

We can cure your post-ACOTAR sadness! These books give “A Court of Thorns and Roses” vibes and will keep the fantasy romance energy going.

11 books that will cure your “A Court of Thorns and Roses” hangover

beautiful-garden

Your all-access pass to the creative inspiration behind your favorite Dipsea stories, books, and characters. From first drafts to final chapters, tropes and archetypes, get the story behind the spicy story, and meet the team building the next-gen of romance.

The Dipsea Blog

## Dipsea Named App of the Day: Re-imagining Romance on the Apple App Store

We're so excited to announce that Dipsea has been featured as [App of the Day](https://apps.apple.com/us/story/id1491969793) on the Apple App Store!

![app-of-the-day-spotlight-update](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/1nvaPUQ0sZLYVx82d5eNVW/080aa20351d6923ad46064325d74085b/app-of-the-day-update-7.25.png)

At [Dipsea](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/dipsea-spicy-romantic-fiction/id1434242889), we've always been passionate about reimagining romance through audio. Our team works with professional writers and top-tier narrators to make sure every chapter is crafted with care, creativity, and attention to the female gaze.

This recognition comes at a time when stories created by and for the female gaze is gaining more visibility in mainstream culture. We’re so thrilled to be a part of that wave and that Apple has recognized our work! 

---

### The Dipsea difference 
If you're new to Dipsea ([welcome](https://www.dipseastories.com/subscribe/?f=2&utm_source=blog&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=app-of-the-day-blog)!), you might be wondering what sets us apart. Think of us as HBO for your ears—we're not just your average romance audiobook. We create the juiciest scenes from your favorite spicy stories, but better.
- Our library features:
- 1,000+ spicy audiobooks and romance novels
- Content that puts the female gaze front and center
- New releases every week
- Diverse storylines from slow-burn romance to supernatural encounters
- Characters with irresistible accents (hello, Lachlan the Highlander!)

We also are obsessed with creating a best-in-class in app experience for all of our users and are constantly integrating listener feedback, launching new features, and updating the Dipsea app. 

### Empowering Content Created for You
We believe in creating a romantic universe that never sacrifices safety. We take care of our characters and depict sex, love, and intimacy in empowering ways. In a world often built by and for men, our stories offer a fresh perspective that centers female pleasure and agency.

Whether you're looking for a slow burn or something more spicy, our audiobooks celebrate desire in all its forms while maintaining respect for every character involved.

### Fan Favorites to Explore
Not sure where to start? Our listeners can't get enough of these popular stories:
- "Hometown" - The most popular audiobook on Dipsea, [Hometown](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/hometown-series/) has it all – forbidden love, friends to lovers, and all your favorite microtropes 
- "The Highlander" - Featuring Lachlan's irresistible Scottish accent that stormed onto the scene with over 200K streams
- “The Local” – A Dipsea favorite, [The Local](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/the-local-series/) tells the story of an American ex-pat falling hard for a charming Irish pub owner
- “[Goddess of the Hunt](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/goddess-of-the-hunt-series/)” - Greek mythology with a twist, this audiobook reimagines the relationship of Artemis and Callisto with a queer twist 
- “Dangerous Games” – A newer story on the scene, [Dangerous Games](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/dangerous-games-series/) brings back one of our most beloved voice actors in his most intense role yet…
- "[The Ticket](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/the-ticket-series/)" - Our top sapphic audiobook with 130K streams and counting. A mysterious brit sweeps you away to an exciting destination in every chapter 
- "[Lecture Me](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/lecture-me-series/)" - One of our most popular romance audiobooks ever, it re-invents classic character dynamics in a modern way 

---

__Thank You__

A heartfelt thank you to Apple for this recognition, and an even bigger thank you to our incredible community of listeners. As a women-led team of writers, producers, and engineers who are obsessed with making the very best audio romance, your support means everything to us.


## Dipsea Named App of the Day: Re-imagining Romance on the Apple App Store

We're so excited to announce that Dipsea has been featured as [App of the Day](https://apps.apple.com/us/story/id1491969793) on the Apple App Store!

![app-of-the-day-spotlight-update](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/1nvaPUQ0sZLYVx82d5eNVW/080aa20351d6923ad46064325d74085b/app-of-the-day-update-7.25.png)

At [Dipsea](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/dipsea-spicy-romantic-fiction/id1434242889), we've always been passionate about reimagining romance through audio. Our team works with professional writers and top-tier narrators to make sure every chapter is crafted with care, creativity, and attention to the female gaze.

This recognition comes at a time when stories created by and for the female gaze is gaining more visibility in mainstream culture. We’re so thrilled to be a part of that wave and that Apple has recognized our work! 

---

### The Dipsea difference 
If you're new to Dipsea ([welcome](https://www.dipseastories.com/subscribe/?f=2&utm_source=blog&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=app-of-the-day-blog)!), you might be wondering what sets us apart. Think of us as HBO for your ears—we're not just your average romance audiobook. We create the juiciest scenes from your favorite spicy stories, but better.
- Our library features:
- 1,000+ spicy audiobooks and romance novels
- Content that puts the female gaze front and center
- New releases every week
- Diverse storylines from slow-burn romance to supernatural encounters
- Characters with irresistible accents (hello, Lachlan the Highlander!)

We also are obsessed with creating a best-in-class in app experience for all of our users and are constantly integrating listener feedback, launching new features, and updating the Dipsea app. 

### Empowering Content Created for You
We believe in creating a romantic universe that never sacrifices safety. We take care of our characters and depict sex, love, and intimacy in empowering ways. In a world often built by and for men, our stories offer a fresh perspective that centers female pleasure and agency.

Whether you're looking for a slow burn or something more spicy, our audiobooks celebrate desire in all its forms while maintaining respect for every character involved.

### Fan Favorites to Explore
Not sure where to start? Our listeners can't get enough of these popular stories:
- "Hometown" - The most popular audiobook on Dipsea, [Hometown](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/hometown-series/) has it all – forbidden love, friends to lovers, and all your favorite microtropes 
- "The Highlander" - Featuring Lachlan's irresistible Scottish accent that stormed onto the scene with over 200K streams
- “The Local” – A Dipsea favorite, [The Local](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/the-local-series/) tells the story of an American ex-pat falling hard for a charming Irish pub owner
- “[Goddess of the Hunt](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/goddess-of-the-hunt-series/)” - Greek mythology with a twist, this audiobook reimagines the relationship of Artemis and Callisto with a queer twist 
- “Dangerous Games” – A newer story on the scene, [Dangerous Games](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/dangerous-games-series/) brings back one of our most beloved voice actors in his most intense role yet…
- "[The Ticket](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/the-ticket-series/)" - Our top sapphic audiobook with 130K streams and counting. A mysterious brit sweeps you away to an exciting destination in every chapter 
- "[Lecture Me](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/lecture-me-series/)" - One of our most popular romance audiobooks ever, it re-invents classic character dynamics in a modern way 

---



__Thank You__

A heartfelt thank you to Apple for this recognition, and an even bigger thank you to our incredible community of listeners. As a women-led team of writers, producers, and engineers who are obsessed with making the very best audio romance, your support means everything to us.


We're so excited to announce that Dipsea has been featured as App of the Day on the Apple App Store!

Dipsea Named Apple App of the Day

app-of-the-day-update-v2-7.25

## 2024: A year of spicy audiobooks

In 2024, you turned to Dipsea for everything from [slow-burn romance](https://www.dipseastories.com/tags/slow-burn-tag/) to irresistible Scottish accents (hello, [Lachlan](https://www.dipseastories.com/characters/lachlan-category/)). Whether you were one of the night owls who made 10 PM our peak listening hour, or part of the crowd swooning over [British accents](https://www.dipseastories.com/tags/british-accent-tag/), you helped make this year's spiciest stories some of the most popular in the library. Let's unwrap the chapters that had 200,000+ listeners hitting replay, the audiobooks that kept you up "just one more chapter," and the characters who lived in your head rent free. 

### By the Numbers
5 million streams. 1,100 chapters. 235 hours of audio – that’s nearly 10 full days of non-stop listening. (Though we recommend taking breaks... staying hydrated is important.)

### Peak Hours
It turns out 10 PM to midnight is the sweet spot for Dipsea listeners. Whether you're winding down solo or heating things up with a partner, the twilight hours proved to be prime time for everybodies me time. 

## The Crowd Pleasers

### Top overall audiobook: Hometown
![Year in review blog 2024-1](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/5W46RJ0kDZkDYDM9foCRlq/ed03f3e21894db07c8d8981d5c52e1c4/Year_in_review_blog_2024-1.png)
Our reigning champion "[Hometown](https://www.dipseastories.com/series/hometown-series/)" proved that some flames never die out, racking up over 500K streams. With 29 chapters spanning nearly 6 hours, it's our longest-audiobook and shows no signs of cooling down. New to the neighborhood? Start with chapter 1 for Jack and Gia’s electric reunion, or skip straight to fan-favorite [Chapter 6: On the Countertop](https://www.dipseastories.com/chapters/hometown-6-on-the-countertop/) for that infamous shower scene (IYKYK) 

### The rookie MVP: The Highlander
![Year in review blog 2024-2](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/HIztJuDsxSdVjFUC91R8f/111bff42f984ac7a7940b19fb01c1d2f/Year_in_review_blog_2024-2.png)
2024 welcomed our first [Scottish accent](https://www.dipseastories.com/tags/scottish-accent-tag/) to the mix, and clearly, you were ready for it. "The Highlander" stormed onto the scene with over 200K streams across just 10 chapters. Ready to head to The Highlands? Check out Lachlan + You: Looking for Trouble or [Lachlan + You: Midnight Snack](https://www.dipseastories.com/chapters/lachlan-you-midnight-snack/)

### The Sapphic Star: The Ticket
![Year in review blog 2024-3](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/2D6lJmTns6meK5ja4hQ6eJ/419dbdafd6f01417f54eef30a8227fed/Year_in_review_blog_2024-3.png)
If you need proof that 2024 was a banner year for sapphics, you need to look no further than the meteoric rise of Chappell Roan. But it wasn’t just a big queer year on spotify, Dipsea was rolling out spicy new sapphic audiobooks at a record rate. The top new sapphic audiobook was Dipsea’s collaboration with romance author extraordinaire [Meryl Wilsner, The Detour](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/meryl-wilsner-brings-sapphic-summer-spice-to-dipsea/). But the top overall, comes from across the pond…this year [The Ticket](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/the-ticket-series/) earned 130k streams. 

### Favorite Slow Burn: Wings of Winter
![Year in review blog 2024-4](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/2HHAxGAZeCkNbVX33OlpRV/8584ebbf7a750b483eb1d29bc57c57fa/Year_in_review_blog_2024-4.png)
This enemies-to-lovers tale about a human and their mysterious fae companion had you embracing the slow burn. Whether you started with [Chapter 1: Feast of Fae](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/wings-of-winter-series/) to watch the tension build, or jumped straight to the spicy reunion scene in Rowan + You: In the Tent, this supernatural slow burn proved that crossing realms (and crossing boundaries) is even hotter when you take your time.

### Honorable Mention: Lecture Me
Almost 400K streams don't lie – apparently, everyone loves a sexy professor. "[Lecture Me](https://www.dipseastories.com/series/lecture-me-series/)" has been teaching us all about anticipation since 2019, making it our longest-running series to crack the top 10. With 26 chapters and over 5 hours of content, it's practically a master class in tension. New student? Start with Lecture Me 1: Extra Credit to see how it all began, or skip to James + You: Your Turn if you're ready for some... extra attention.

## Top Tracks 
While our audiobooks kept you coming back for more, these standalones proved that sometimes one chapter is all you need:

- __Most Streamed Overall:__ "[Boyfriend Begs for You](https://www.dipseastories.com/chapters/boyfriend-begs-for-you/)" (50K listens) - Who doesn’t love a little begging?
![Year in review blog 2024-6](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/5sLlMkrgq477eoTmI4Rnic/7eacd52b433d8c0f15592acbcff47fc1/Year_in_review_blog_2024-6.png)
- __Top "+ You" Experience:__ "[Ronan + You: Birthday Girl](https://www.dipseastories.com/chapters/ronan-you-birthday-girl/)" (23K listens) - Because sometimes it feels good to be treated like a princess..
![Year in review blog 2024-7](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/43Wy31suUqjER6Ox1KHhU2/be3f7a043e1dde77573e49db3ec3eb35/Year_in_review_blog_2024-7.png)
- __Top Sapphic Scene:__ "[Charlotte + Willa Overheard: The Ball](https://www.dipseastories.com/chapters/charlotte-willa-overheard-the-ball/)" (29K listens) - Historical romance is so hot right now
![Year in review blog 2024-8](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/J3FwNJDGIgidFOexkypS6/adf90ea59a2137eb8a8c56e114bdfe17/Year_in_review_blog_2024-8.png)

### Global Heat Map
From coast to coast and across the pond, Dipsea's heat map got interesting this year. Our top three cities showed they each have their own taste in spicy stories:

- __New York City__ topped our city charts, with "[Hometown 2: Gone Camping](https://www.dipseastories.com/chapters/hometown-2-gone-camping/)" as their most-streamed chapter. Looks like New Yorkers love escaping their concrete jungle for some outdoor adventure (especially when there's a British accent involved).
- __London__ came in second, showing particular love for hometown favorite "[Leather & Lace: Joining In.](https://www.dipseastories.com/chapters/leather-and-lace-1-joining-in/)" No surprise our British listeners gravitated to one of our spiciest London-based series.
- __Chicago__ rounded out our top three, with "[Lecture Me 2: No Talking in Class](https://www.dipseastories.com/chapters/lecture-me-2-no-talking-in-class/)" as their most-played chapter. The Windy City apparently has a thing for strict professors...

Speaking of accents, British voices dominated in 2024, with listeners marking almost 100K British-accented chapters as favorites. The most beloved? "Leather & Lace 1: Joining In" – proving that posh accents never go out of style.

And while cities brought the heat, California and Texas led the charge as our most active states. Guess everything really is bigger in Texas – including listening stats.

As we enter 2025, keep your eyes (and ears) peeled for rising stars like "[Dangerous Games](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/dangerous-games-series/)" and "[Off the Coast.](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/off-the-coast-series/)" If this year taught us anything, it's that Dipsea listeners know what they want – and they're not afraid to press play.

## 2024: A year of spicy audiobooks

In 2024, you turned to Dipsea for everything from [slow-burn romance](https://www.dipseastories.com/tags/slow-burn-tag/) to irresistible Scottish accents (hello, [Lachlan](https://www.dipseastories.com/characters/lachlan-category/)). Whether you were one of the night owls who made 10 PM our peak listening hour, or part of the crowd swooning over [British accents](https://www.dipseastories.com/tags/british-accent-tag/), you helped make this year's spiciest stories some of the most popular in the library. Let's unwrap the chapters that had 200,000+ listeners hitting replay, the audiobooks that kept you up "just one more chapter," and the characters who lived in your head rent free. 

### By the Numbers
5 million streams. 1,100 chapters. 235 hours of audio – that’s nearly 10 full days of non-stop listening. (Though we recommend taking breaks... staying hydrated is important.)

### Peak Hours
It turns out 10 PM to midnight is the sweet spot for Dipsea listeners. Whether you're winding down solo or heating things up with a partner, the twilight hours proved to be prime time for everybodies me time. 

## The Crowd Pleasers

### Top overall audiobook: Hometown
![Year in review blog 2024-1](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/5W46RJ0kDZkDYDM9foCRlq/ed03f3e21894db07c8d8981d5c52e1c4/Year_in_review_blog_2024-1.png)
Our reigning champion "[Hometown](https://www.dipseastories.com/series/hometown-series/)" proved that some flames never die out, racking up over 500K streams. With 29 chapters spanning nearly 6 hours, it's our longest-audiobook and shows no signs of cooling down. New to the neighborhood? Start with chapter 1 for Jack and Gia’s electric reunion, or skip straight to fan-favorite [Chapter 6: On the Countertop](https://www.dipseastories.com/chapters/hometown-6-on-the-countertop/) for that infamous shower scene (IYKYK) 

### The rookie MVP: The Highlander
![Year in review blog 2024-2](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/HIztJuDsxSdVjFUC91R8f/111bff42f984ac7a7940b19fb01c1d2f/Year_in_review_blog_2024-2.png)
2024 welcomed our first [Scottish accent](https://www.dipseastories.com/tags/scottish-accent-tag/) to the mix, and clearly, you were ready for it. "The Highlander" stormed onto the scene with over 200K streams across just 10 chapters. Ready to head to The Highlands? Check out Lachlan + You: Looking for Trouble or [Lachlan + You: Midnight Snack](https://www.dipseastories.com/chapters/lachlan-you-midnight-snack/)

### The Sapphic Star: The Ticket
![Year in review blog 2024-3](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/2D6lJmTns6meK5ja4hQ6eJ/419dbdafd6f01417f54eef30a8227fed/Year_in_review_blog_2024-3.png)
If you need proof that 2024 was a banner year for sapphics, you need to look no further than the meteoric rise of Chappell Roan. But it wasn’t just a big queer year on spotify, Dipsea was rolling out spicy new sapphic audiobooks at a record rate. The top new sapphic audiobook was Dipsea’s collaboration with romance author extraordinaire [Meryl Wilsner, The Detour](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/meryl-wilsner-brings-sapphic-summer-spice-to-dipsea/). But the top overall, comes from across the pond…this year [The Ticket](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/the-ticket-series/) earned 130k streams. 

### Favorite Slow Burn: Wings of Winter
![Year in review blog 2024-4](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/2HHAxGAZeCkNbVX33OlpRV/8584ebbf7a750b483eb1d29bc57c57fa/Year_in_review_blog_2024-4.png)
This enemies-to-lovers tale about a human and their mysterious fae companion had you embracing the slow burn. Whether you started with [Chapter 1: Feast of Fae](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/wings-of-winter-series/) to watch the tension build, or jumped straight to the spicy reunion scene in Rowan + You: In the Tent, this supernatural slow burn proved that crossing realms (and crossing boundaries) is even hotter when you take your time.

### Honorable Mention: Lecture Me
Almost 400K streams don't lie – apparently, everyone loves a sexy professor. "[Lecture Me](https://www.dipseastories.com/series/lecture-me-series/)" has been teaching us all about anticipation since 2019, making it our longest-running series to crack the top 10. With 26 chapters and over 5 hours of content, it's practically a master class in tension. New student? Start with Lecture Me 1: Extra Credit to see how it all began, or skip to James + You: Your Turn if you're ready for some... extra attention.

## Top Tracks 
While our audiobooks kept you coming back for more, these standalones proved that sometimes one chapter is all you need:

- __Most Streamed Overall:__ "[Boyfriend Begs for You](https://www.dipseastories.com/chapters/boyfriend-begs-for-you/)" (50K listens) - Who doesn’t love a little begging?
![Year in review blog 2024-6](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/5sLlMkrgq477eoTmI4Rnic/7eacd52b433d8c0f15592acbcff47fc1/Year_in_review_blog_2024-6.png)
- __Top "+ You" Experience:__ "[Ronan + You: Birthday Girl](https://www.dipseastories.com/chapters/ronan-you-birthday-girl/)" (23K listens) - Because sometimes it feels good to be treated like a princess..
![Year in review blog 2024-7](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/43Wy31suUqjER6Ox1KHhU2/be3f7a043e1dde77573e49db3ec3eb35/Year_in_review_blog_2024-7.png)
- __Top Sapphic Scene:__ "[Charlotte + Willa Overheard: The Ball](https://www.dipseastories.com/chapters/charlotte-willa-overheard-the-ball/)" (29K listens) - Historical romance is so hot right now
![Year in review blog 2024-8](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/J3FwNJDGIgidFOexkypS6/adf90ea59a2137eb8a8c56e114bdfe17/Year_in_review_blog_2024-8.png)

### Global Heat Map
From coast to coast and across the pond, Dipsea's heat map got interesting this year. Our top three cities showed they each have their own taste in spicy stories:

- __New York City__ topped our city charts, with "[Hometown 2: Gone Camping](https://www.dipseastories.com/chapters/hometown-2-gone-camping/)" as their most-streamed chapter. Looks like New Yorkers love escaping their concrete jungle for some outdoor adventure (especially when there's a British accent involved).
- __London__ came in second, showing particular love for hometown favorite "[Leather & Lace: Joining In.](https://www.dipseastories.com/chapters/leather-and-lace-1-joining-in/)" No surprise our British listeners gravitated to one of our spiciest London-based series.
- __Chicago__ rounded out our top three, with "[Lecture Me 2: No Talking in Class](https://www.dipseastories.com/chapters/lecture-me-2-no-talking-in-class/)" as their most-played chapter. The Windy City apparently has a thing for strict professors...

Speaking of accents, British voices dominated in 2024, with listeners marking almost 100K British-accented chapters as favorites. The most beloved? "Leather & Lace 1: Joining In" – proving that posh accents never go out of style.

And while cities brought the heat, California and Texas led the charge as our most active states. Guess everything really is bigger in Texas – including listening stats.

As we enter 2025, keep your eyes (and ears) peeled for rising stars like "[Dangerous Games](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/dangerous-games-series/)" and "[Off the Coast.](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/off-the-coast-series/)" If this year taught us anything, it's that Dipsea listeners know what they want – and they're not afraid to press play.

Dipsea Wrapped 2024: 5M streams, steamy accents, and slow burns that kept you listening. Discover this year’s top audiobooks, chapters, and crowd favorites!

Dipsea Wrapped: A year of spicy romance audio

Year in review blog 2024-cover

Ever wondered what goes into creating those intimate and immersive moments on Dipsea? We sat down with the voice behind [Killian](https://www.dipseastories.com/characters/killian-category/)—a fan-favorite character—to talk preparation, favorite moments, and what makes working with Dipsea so unique.

## How do you prepare for a Dipsea session? How is it different from other VO work?
![Voice Actor-Interview-Killian-1](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/79CI57WEHDgbWpzbhnGfYq/62f75a4f2744038243da0380fdf80c70/Voice_Actor-Interview-Killian-1.png)
“Good question! Honestly, I always start any VO session with breathing exercises and vocal drills. Hydration is key too. But with Dipsea, I guess I focus a lot more on the breath work—it’s a big part of the performance since there’s often a lot of… breath involved.

And of course, I read through the scripts ahead of time. The preparation is similar to other VO work in some ways, but Dipsea’s focus on intimacy makes it a bit different.”

## What’s your favorite moment from a story you’ve recorded?
![Voice Actor-Interview-Killian-2](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/4CHTMPPbJZqJv3hi7XZYxJ/88575e217f28a109c7a0e749bed71cfa/Voice_Actor-Interview-Killian-2.png)
“Oh, that’s a tough one! I really enjoy the softer, more vulnerable moments in the stories. If I had to pick, I’d say the scenes where Killian and Sabrina reconnect after a breakup. I know it's kind of like a couple of times now but I always enjoy when they get back together and they have those sweet little moments—especially after they’ve, uh, spent some 'intimate time' together.”

## What’s the funniest or most surprising thing that’s happened during a Dipsea recording session?
![Voice Actor-Interview-Killian-3](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/SLR769m1bi6UqY9LU3tT4/e89a795360ac2b2139a9c652daa89abd/Voice_Actor-Interview-Killian-3.png)
“Well, once I nearly choked on my own spit! These sessions can get pretty grunty and breathy, and sometimes, well… stuff happen. Who said voice acting wasn’t a risky business?”

## If you’ve played more than one Dipsea character, who’s your favorite and why?
![Voice Actor-Interview-Killian-4](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/1cTRUqXMmcN5N2b5HsrswR/d5b796bdca1763b2952aae9cee5974a7/Voice_Actor-Interview-Killian-4.png)
“Killian, hands down. He’s basically me on a page—he’s got this tough exterior but a really soft, vulnerable side underneath. I love how his relationship with Sabrina lets him drop that guard.

Don’t get me wrong, I’ve enjoyed playing other characters too, like Ewan, who’s a bit rougher around the edges. But Killian feels the most natural to me.”

## What excites you most about working with a platform that prioritizes women’s perspectives?
![Voice Actor-Interview-Killian-5](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/6JrZiFXWch1cyjqfSYBhqG/042e4fdbaf2377764b7e083c329de41b/Voice_Actor-Interview-Killian-5.png)
“I think it’s really important. Honestly, there are a lot of men out there who, for want of a better word, can be selfish—they don’t always put women’s needs ahead of their own. I’m the opposite of that. I feel like the needs of women should come first.

If Dipsea was a platform run by men, I probably wouldn’t do it. That was one of the things that drew me to it in the first place: it’s run by women, for women. A lot of content out there feels very male-driven, which isn’t great. But Dipsea hits that middle ground really well from both perspectives. 

It’s a typical “man” thing to think they know what women want and write a story based on that—but that’s ridiculous. Dipsea avoids all of that, and it’s one of the reasons I found the company so interesting when I first looked into it. They really struck a balance that works.”

---

It’s always fascinating to hear about the process behind the scenes. Our voice actors bring such dedication and authenticity to every story, and we couldn’t do it without them! 


Ever wondered what goes into creating those intimate and immersive moments on Dipsea? We sat down with the voice behind [Killian](https://www.dipseastories.com/characters/killian-category/)—a fan-favorite character—to talk preparation, favorite moments, and what makes working with Dipsea so unique.

## How do you prepare for a Dipsea session? How is it different from other VO work?
![Voice Actor-Interview-Killian-1](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/79CI57WEHDgbWpzbhnGfYq/62f75a4f2744038243da0380fdf80c70/Voice_Actor-Interview-Killian-1.png)
“Good question! Honestly, I always start any VO session with breathing exercises and vocal drills. Hydration is key too. But with Dipsea, I guess I focus a lot more on the breath work—it’s a big part of the performance since there’s often a lot of… breath involved.

And of course, I read through the scripts ahead of time. The preparation is similar to other VO work in some ways, but Dipsea’s focus on intimacy makes it a bit different.”

## What’s your favorite moment from a story you’ve recorded?
![Voice Actor-Interview-Killian-2](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/4CHTMPPbJZqJv3hi7XZYxJ/88575e217f28a109c7a0e749bed71cfa/Voice_Actor-Interview-Killian-2.png)
“Oh, that’s a tough one! I really enjoy the softer, more vulnerable moments in the stories. If I had to pick, I’d say the scenes where Killian and Sabrina reconnect after a breakup. I know it's kind of like a couple of times now but I always enjoy when they get back together and they have those sweet little moments—especially after they’ve, uh, spent some 'intimate time' together.”

## What’s the funniest or most surprising thing that’s happened during a Dipsea recording session?
![Voice Actor-Interview-Killian-3](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/SLR769m1bi6UqY9LU3tT4/e89a795360ac2b2139a9c652daa89abd/Voice_Actor-Interview-Killian-3.png)
“Well, once I nearly choked on my own spit! These sessions can get pretty grunty and breathy, and sometimes, well… stuff happen. Who said voice acting wasn’t a risky business?”

## If you’ve played more than one Dipsea character, who’s your favorite and why?
![Voice Actor-Interview-Killian-4](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/1cTRUqXMmcN5N2b5HsrswR/d5b796bdca1763b2952aae9cee5974a7/Voice_Actor-Interview-Killian-4.png)
“Killian, hands down. He’s basically me on a page—he’s got this tough exterior but a really soft, vulnerable side underneath. I love how his relationship with Sabrina lets him drop that guard.

Don’t get me wrong, I’ve enjoyed playing other characters too, like Ewan, who’s a bit rougher around the edges. But Killian feels the most natural to me.”

## What excites you most about working with a platform that prioritizes women’s perspectives?
![Voice Actor-Interview-Killian-5](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/6JrZiFXWch1cyjqfSYBhqG/042e4fdbaf2377764b7e083c329de41b/Voice_Actor-Interview-Killian-5.png)
“I think it’s really important. Honestly, there are a lot of men out there who, for want of a better word, can be selfish—they don’t always put women’s needs ahead of their own. I’m the opposite of that. I feel like the needs of women should come first.

If Dipsea was a platform run by men, I probably wouldn’t do it. That was one of the things that drew me to it in the first place: it’s run by women, for women. A lot of content out there feels very male-driven, which isn’t great. But Dipsea hits that middle ground really well from both perspectives. 

It’s a typical “man” thing to think they know what women want and write a story based on that—but that’s ridiculous. Dipsea avoids all of that, and it’s one of the reasons I found the company so interesting when I first looked into it. They really struck a balance that works.”

---

It’s always fascinating to hear about the process behind the scenes. Our voice actors bring such dedication and authenticity to every story, and we couldn’t do it without them! 


Step behind the mic with Killian's voice actor as he share his prep process, favorite moments, and why Dipsea’s female-focused storytelling stands out.

Meet the Voice Actor Behind Killian

Killian Voice Interview

At Dipsea, every story is crafted with care, creativity, and collaboration. From the first spark of an idea to the final audio experience, our team works behind the scenes to bring the characters and fantasies you love to life.

In this conversation between Olivia Taylor, Dipsea’s Editorial Lead, and Kara Hart, Dipsea’s Senior Audio Producer, the curtain is pulled back and listeners get to see how their process works, what inspires them, and what’s new this month. From the intricacies of directing the perfect begging scene to experimenting with new storytelling formats, they share the passion and thoughtfulness that go into every piece of content.

## More is More: Jack from Hometown
![500-Jack Pillowtalk 10](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/5kLtB2DxbjNAvTCGTEARYF/5b68ca413f71236a42c3155799f6bbee/500-Jack_Pillowtalk_10.png)

__Kara Hart:__ We have so much fun stuff coming out in November. It’s a month filled with new characters and old beloved characters.

__Olivia Taylor:__ We have two very sweet Jack + You’s and a very special Jack Overheard.

__Kara Hart:__ And one of the [Jack + You’s is extra, extra long](https://www.dipseastories.com/chapters/jack-you-late-night-snack/)—it’s 26 minutes, which is one of our longest ones yet, right?

__Olivia Taylor:__ Yeah.

__Kara Hart:__ And it's so good. There's so much buildup and foreplay and all the things that make you love Jack are a part of this. And he's really taking care of you in both + You’s. And then we've got him begging in the Overheard.

__Olivia Taylor:__ [Jack: Begging For You](https://www.dipseastories.com/chapters/jack-overheard-begging-for-you/), if you're a fan of Overheards.

__Kara Hart:__ Mm-hmm. It's really great. I do think Jack has this really special way of whimpering, and the actor who plays him is so good at making these really small sounds and noises that are upward inflected. They’re just really evocative of begging and whimpering. And in the Overheards, they're so good.

__Olivia Taylor:__ I need an explainer video of all the different kinds of begging.

__Kara Hart:__ Hahaha. Totally! I can tell you some of the directions I give when I'm directing male voices. Sometimes they're not begging enough, and I'll be like, no, beg like someone has just taken away your delicious treat and you really, really want it back, or beg like it's a caricature of begging. Beg like you mean it.

__Olivia Taylor:__ Like you mean it.

__Kara Hart:__ Sometimes it takes a few iterations, a few takes, but they get there, which is really fun.

## Introducing Xavier: A Familiar Voice
![500-Xavier Pillowtalk1](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/uRMR4xMxodSxOGTK9vcjc/364d778de3c04c4ff85aa9d54e549227/500-Xavier_Pillowtalk1.png)

__Olivia Taylor:__ Okay, and then we have this new [Xavier series](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/dangerous-games-series/). We’re releasing a few + You’s, which are also really long.

__Kara Hart:__ Right. They're around 20 to 30 minutes. And so much of the excitement around Xavier comes from wanting to take a truly beloved voice actor from the Dipseaverse, who voices Freddie in Secret Rooms, one of our much older audiobooks, and so many other characters, and create a whole new series around him. We love Freddie. We love Secret Rooms. But we wanted to take Freddie out of the dungeon. We took that series as far as we could within that Dom world we created and we wanted to try something different. And I think what makes these Xavier + You’s so effective is, well, the writing is really good and we're trying out a new word… Daddy...

__Olivia Taylor:__ Totally, I feel like at Dipsea we introduce things really slowly. We’ll gradually experiment with new dirty talk, a new word, new dynamics. And we haven't really used the word “daddy” in our scripts. Until Xavier.

__Kara Hart:__ What’s the backstory of this series?

__Olivia Taylor:__ It's a + You. You, the listener, are at a party with your friend, Xavier. He's maybe kind of like not your best friend in the group, but somebody you're sort of intrigued by, curious about. He's like a nice guy, good guy. You're at his house. You go to get your coat as you're leaving. You think you’re going to the guest room, but you accidentally walk into his bedroom.

__Kara Hart:__ Mm-hmm. Mm-hmm.

__Olivia Taylor:__ You discover his kinky BDSM setup and you're like, I'm not going to say anything. I'm just going to go. And on the way out, he's like, are you okay? You look like you've seen a ghost. You talk about his room and then you end up exploring together. He's like, I can show you the ropes. Which is sort of one of those things that could happen in real life.

__Kara Hart:__ Hahaha. Mm-hmm. Totally.

__Olivia Taylor:__ But circling back to daddy! He's like, I know you want to call me daddy, so you, the listener, call him daddy. And we're going to see how that does. We're going to see if people like it. I think it's fun!

__Kara Hart:__ Daddy—I think it's sexy. I think people will really like it. One of the things that's done really well is that calling Xavier daddy really turns the listener in the stories on, she’s like this is something that I really want. He's not putting that on the listener, which I think is really great. There is a fine line.

__Olivia Taylor:__ Totally. There's a fine line with daddy, you know, it really has to be executed properly to feel good!

__Kara Hart:__ There’s also, there’s such a good line which is probably not safe for work. But I think if you’re listening to our content, this is nothing new. Xavier says something like, “Shut up and prove to me that you know how to listen. There you go. I don’t want to hear a single word from you unless it’s ‘I’m coming.’” I mean, come on! Great writing Olivia.

__Olivia Taylor:__ Thank you! 

## New Horizons: Sage in Sapphic Saddles
![500-Sage Pillowtalk 1](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/7otkzh3mDzAar2c86BDlh2/0e21e6c29c4b7992fc0a263780efc397/500-Sage_Pillowtalk_1.png)

__Olivia Taylor:__ Okay, let’s talk about [Sapphic Saddles](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/sapphic-saddles-series/). The main character, Sage, has a great voice, kind of like Kristen Stewart. Also, I just think we’ve been long overdue for a cowgirl story.

__Kara Hart:__ Great voice, great story!

__Olivia Taylor:__ Sage is like a sweet-talking, but sort of rough-around-the-edges, cowgirl. She's working with her hands.

__Kara Hart:__ I mean, you don't need anything else.

__Olivia Taylor:__ Something I really like about this one is that she’s calling the listener in the + You’s sweetheart. I think it's very sexy and fun, but it could be polarizing. We will see. I'm sure the listeners will tell us. People love to give us feedback, and we love to take it!

## A Classic Twist: Launching Carmilla
![500-CarmillaPillowtalk](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/GK2bObi93BiSAGryRKrjh/ca25f3c14693936c0862aa289cfb31f4/500-CarmillaPillowtalk.jpg)

__Olivia Taylor:__ I’m also excited about something that we just launched: [Carmilla](https://www.dipseastories.com/series/carmilla-series/). It’s an 18th-century vampire novella written prior to Dracula. Prior, obviously, to Twilight. Really one of the original vampire tales, and it’s a sort of sapphic queer tale. It’s about lust between this vampire, Carmilla, and this young woman she’s staying with, Laura.

__Kara Hart:__ And it’s not the same as a regular Dipsea audiobook or story where it’s super spicy and there’s sex. This is a regular book that we adapted into an audiobook.

__Olivia Taylor:__ But I think it’s really fun and exciting because so much of our audiobooks are really short. It’s like bingeable content. This is something that you can really listen to for a long time. And it’s spooky.

__Kara Hart:__ Yeah, the story holds up. I think it’s really good.

__Olivia Taylor:__ And it’s the first piece of content we’ve ever made, or produced, that’s been this long.

__Kara Hart:__ Yeah, and I think what’s so good about the relationship between Carmilla and Laura is that it moves from this kind of gentle interest into this obsession. I slacked you and Liz, our social media manager, and was like, it’s the gayest thing in the world to have someone crying over how much they are in love with you.

__Olivia Taylor:__ Just crying. I mean, there’s nothing more gay than yearning. It’s just yearning, maxing out.

__Kara Hart:__ And we also created a [Carmilla + You](https://www.dipseastories.com/chapters/carmilla-you-candlelit-confession/), so Carmilla is focusing on the listener in this one. It’s written by one of our wonderful writers and they really capitalize on that yearning and obsession. One of the very first lines in Carmilla + You is like, “Still your beating heart.” Come on, we need that.

__Olivia Taylor:__ We need that!!

__Kara Hart:__ It’s really great. There are also spicy scenes for sure. The description of an orgasm in one of the later chapters is phenomenal. I’m excited. I hope people are quoting it.

## Looking Ahead to December

__Kara Hart:__ December is going to be really fun.

__Olivia Taylor:__ Totally. We’ve got some stuff people have been asking for coming up.

__Kara Hart:__ We’re excited about what’s next—lots of good surprises.

__Olivia Taylor:__ Subtle foreshadowing for making what you want.

__Kara Hart:__ Yes! December is going to be great.

__Olivia Taylor:__ Totally. We hope you love what’s coming!

---

[Try Dipsea for 30 days](https://www.dipseastories.com/subscribe/?f=2&promo=blog&utm_source=blog&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=inside-dipsea-november-2024) & Stay tuned for December’s surprises! We’ll keep experimenting, creating, and bringing you the stories you love!


At Dipsea, every story is crafted with care, creativity, and collaboration. From the first spark of an idea to the final audio experience, our team works behind the scenes to bring the characters and fantasies you love to life.

In this conversation between Olivia Taylor, Dipsea’s Editorial Lead, and Kara Hart, Dipsea’s Senior Audio Producer, the curtain is pulled back and listeners get to see how their process works, what inspires them, and what’s new this month. From the intricacies of directing the perfect begging scene to experimenting with new storytelling formats, they share the passion and thoughtfulness that go into every piece of content.

## More is More: Jack from Hometown
![500-Jack Pillowtalk 10](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/5kLtB2DxbjNAvTCGTEARYF/5b68ca413f71236a42c3155799f6bbee/500-Jack_Pillowtalk_10.png)

__Kara Hart:__ We have so much fun stuff coming out in November. It’s a month filled with new characters and old beloved characters.

__Olivia Taylor:__ We have two very sweet Jack + You’s and a very special Jack Overheard.

__Kara Hart:__ And one of the [Jack + You’s is extra, extra long](https://www.dipseastories.com/chapters/jack-you-late-night-snack/)—it’s 26 minutes, which is one of our longest ones yet, right?

__Olivia Taylor:__ Yeah.

__Kara Hart:__ And it's so good. There's so much buildup and foreplay and all the things that make you love Jack are a part of this. And he's really taking care of you in both + You’s. And then we've got him begging in the Overheard.

__Olivia Taylor:__ [Jack: Begging For You](https://www.dipseastories.com/chapters/jack-overheard-begging-for-you/), if you're a fan of Overheards.

__Kara Hart:__ Mm-hmm. It's really great. I do think Jack has this really special way of whimpering, and the actor who plays him is so good at making these really small sounds and noises that are upward inflected. They’re just really evocative of begging and whimpering. And in the Overheards, they're so good.

__Olivia Taylor:__ I need an explainer video of all the different kinds of begging.

__Kara Hart:__ Hahaha. Totally! I can tell you some of the directions I give when I'm directing male voices. Sometimes they're not begging enough, and I'll be like, no, beg like someone has just taken away your delicious treat and you really, really want it back, or beg like it's a caricature of begging. Beg like you mean it.

__Olivia Taylor:__ Like you mean it.

__Kara Hart:__ Sometimes it takes a few iterations, a few takes, but they get there, which is really fun.

## Introducing Xavier: A Familiar Voice
![500-Xavier Pillowtalk1](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/uRMR4xMxodSxOGTK9vcjc/364d778de3c04c4ff85aa9d54e549227/500-Xavier_Pillowtalk1.png)

__Olivia Taylor:__ Okay, and then we have this new [Xavier series](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/dangerous-games-series/). We’re releasing a few + You’s, which are also really long.

__Kara Hart:__ Right. They're around 20 to 30 minutes. And so much of the excitement around Xavier comes from wanting to take a truly beloved voice actor from the Dipseaverse, who voices Freddie in Secret Rooms, one of our much older audiobooks, and so many other characters, and create a whole new series around him. We love Freddie. We love Secret Rooms. But we wanted to take Freddie out of the dungeon. We took that series as far as we could within that Dom world we created and we wanted to try something different. And I think what makes these Xavier + You’s so effective is, well, the writing is really good and we're trying out a new word… Daddy...

__Olivia Taylor:__ Totally, I feel like at Dipsea we introduce things really slowly. We’ll gradually experiment with new dirty talk, a new word, new dynamics. And we haven't really used the word “daddy” in our scripts. Until Xavier.

__Kara Hart:__ What’s the backstory of this series?

__Olivia Taylor:__ It's a + You. You, the listener, are at a party with your friend, Xavier. He's maybe kind of like not your best friend in the group, but somebody you're sort of intrigued by, curious about. He's like a nice guy, good guy. You're at his house. You go to get your coat as you're leaving. You think you’re going to the guest room, but you accidentally walk into his bedroom.

__Kara Hart:__ Mm-hmm. Mm-hmm.

__Olivia Taylor:__ You discover his kinky BDSM setup and you're like, I'm not going to say anything. I'm just going to go. And on the way out, he's like, are you okay? You look like you've seen a ghost. You talk about his room and then you end up exploring together. He's like, I can show you the ropes. Which is sort of one of those things that could happen in real life.

__Kara Hart:__ Hahaha. Mm-hmm. Totally.

__Olivia Taylor:__ But circling back to daddy! He's like, I know you want to call me daddy, so you, the listener, call him daddy. And we're going to see how that does. We're going to see if people like it. I think it's fun!

__Kara Hart:__ Daddy—I think it's sexy. I think people will really like it. One of the things that's done really well is that calling Xavier daddy really turns the listener in the stories on, she’s like this is something that I really want. He's not putting that on the listener, which I think is really great. There is a fine line.

__Olivia Taylor:__ Totally. There's a fine line with daddy, you know, it really has to be executed properly to feel good!

__Kara Hart:__ There’s also, there’s such a good line which is probably not safe for work. But I think if you’re listening to our content, this is nothing new. Xavier says something like, “Shut up and prove to me that you know how to listen. There you go. I don’t want to hear a single word from you unless it’s ‘I’m coming.’” I mean, come on! Great writing Olivia.

__Olivia Taylor:__ Thank you! 

## New Horizons: Sage in Sapphic Saddles
![500-Sage Pillowtalk 1](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/7otkzh3mDzAar2c86BDlh2/0e21e6c29c4b7992fc0a263780efc397/500-Sage_Pillowtalk_1.png)

__Olivia Taylor:__ Okay, let’s talk about [Sapphic Saddles](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/sapphic-saddles-series/). The main character, Sage, has a great voice, kind of like Kristen Stewart. Also, I just think we’ve been long overdue for a cowgirl story.

__Kara Hart:__ Great voice, great story!

__Olivia Taylor:__ Sage is like a sweet-talking, but sort of rough-around-the-edges, cowgirl. She's working with her hands.

__Kara Hart:__ I mean, you don't need anything else.

__Olivia Taylor:__ Something I really like about this one is that she’s calling the listener in the + You’s sweetheart. I think it's very sexy and fun, but it could be polarizing. We will see. I'm sure the listeners will tell us. People love to give us feedback, and we love to take it!

## A Classic Twist: Launching Carmilla
![500-CarmillaPillowtalk](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/GK2bObi93BiSAGryRKrjh/ca25f3c14693936c0862aa289cfb31f4/500-CarmillaPillowtalk.jpg)

__Olivia Taylor:__ I’m also excited about something that we just launched: [Carmilla](https://www.dipseastories.com/series/carmilla-series/). It’s an 18th-century vampire novella written prior to Dracula. Prior, obviously, to Twilight. Really one of the original vampire tales, and it’s a sort of sapphic queer tale. It’s about lust between this vampire, Carmilla, and this young woman she’s staying with, Laura.

__Kara Hart:__ And it’s not the same as a regular Dipsea audiobook or story where it’s super spicy and there’s sex. This is a regular book that we adapted into an audiobook.

__Olivia Taylor:__ But I think it’s really fun and exciting because so much of our audiobooks are really short. It’s like bingeable content. This is something that you can really listen to for a long time. And it’s spooky.

__Kara Hart:__ Yeah, the story holds up. I think it’s really good.

__Olivia Taylor:__ And it’s the first piece of content we’ve ever made, or produced, that’s been this long.

__Kara Hart:__ Yeah, and I think what’s so good about the relationship between Carmilla and Laura is that it moves from this kind of gentle interest into this obsession. I slacked you and Liz, our social media manager, and was like, it’s the gayest thing in the world to have someone crying over how much they are in love with you.

__Olivia Taylor:__ Just crying. I mean, there’s nothing more gay than yearning. It’s just yearning, maxing out.

__Kara Hart:__ And we also created a [Carmilla + You](https://www.dipseastories.com/chapters/carmilla-you-candlelit-confession/), so Carmilla is focusing on the listener in this one. It’s written by one of our wonderful writers and they really capitalize on that yearning and obsession. One of the very first lines in Carmilla + You is like, “Still your beating heart.” Come on, we need that.

__Olivia Taylor:__ We need that!!

__Kara Hart:__ It’s really great. There are also spicy scenes for sure. The description of an orgasm in one of the later chapters is phenomenal. I’m excited. I hope people are quoting it.

## Looking Ahead to December

__Kara Hart:__ December is going to be really fun.

__Olivia Taylor:__ Totally. We’ve got some stuff people have been asking for coming up.

__Kara Hart:__ We’re excited about what’s next—lots of good surprises.

__Olivia Taylor:__ Subtle foreshadowing for making what you want.

__Kara Hart:__ Yes! December is going to be great.

__Olivia Taylor:__ Totally. We hope you love what’s coming!

---

[Try Dipsea for 30 days](https://www.dipseastories.com/subscribe/?f=2&promo=blog&utm_source=blog&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=inside-dipsea-november-2024) & Stay tuned for December’s surprises! We’ll keep experimenting, creating, and bringing you the stories you love!


Go behind the scenes at Dipsea! Olivia Taylor & Kara Hart share how they craft stories, what inspires them, and what’s new this month.✨

Inside Dipsea: A Peek Behind the Curtain of Content Creation

Inside-Dipsea-1

Meryl Wilsner knows how to write about queer love. With three popular romance books under their belt— Cleat Cute, Mistakes Were Made, and Something to Talk About—they’ve made a name for themself as a romance novelist. They create stories for everyone, but especially women who love women and the sapphic energy comes through on every page. Which is exactly why we wanted to collaborate with them here at Dipsea and how The Detour, a brand new full cast audio drama exclusively on our app, was created.  

### The Detour is a summer roadtrip story reimagined, think Thelma and Louise but the sapphic storyline isn’t just in the subtext… 

After a heartbreaking breakup, Alex is leaving her old life behind and heading to Los Angeles for a fresh start. But when her car breaks down in the middle of nowhere, her cross-country journey takes an unexpected detour. Stranded in a small town with no hotel in sight, she finds herself at the mercy of Sierra, a rough-around-the-edges mechanic, who couldn't be more different from Alex. 

Reluctantly agreeing to stay with Sierra while her car is repaired, Alex braces herself for an awkward week in unfamiliar territory. But as the days go by, an undeniable connection begins to form between the two opposites. Worlds collide as the sarcastic Sierra shows Alex a side of life she's never experienced, and Alex's charm starts to crack Sierra's tough exterior.

The Detour is everything a summer romance should be—messy, sexy, and queer. To celebrate the release of this brand new story, we interviewed Meryl about the project. Here’s what they had to say: 

__What made you want to create this series with Dipsea?__

I always want to push myself with my writing, and working with Dipsea was a great opportunity to do that. Telling a story through mostly dialogue, over only three episodes? I’ve never done something like that before. But more than just a chance to try new things, I knew writing for Dipsea would be fun, and that’s so important to me, to find joy in my work. 

__What inspired you while writing The Detour?__

Honestly, I couldn’t stop thinking about how the episodes would sound once produced. It’s such a team effort to bring Dipsea stories to life, and that drove a lot of my work—thinking about the emotions and character and sass the voice actors would bring, imagining the audio cues for background noises or scene changes. 

__How was the experience of writing for audio different from writing for the page?__

It’s so different! Establishing setting, describing characters, literally everything is different writing for audio. Like I said on the last question, creating a story with Dipsea is a team effort. I had to trust that the voice actors would imbue these characters with the emotions I imagined for them, because that wasn’t something I could just put on the page. And of course, the voice actors are amazing and hit it out of the park, but it was just such a different process of writing. It was a very good lesson in show don’t tell, because when writing for the page, there are always going to be times you do just tell the reader something, but that wasn’t so much an option with writing audio. It uses different writing muscles. 

__Do you have any favorite moments or lines from the scripts?__

I really love when Alex takes charge in the first episode when they’re hooking up. Sierra is this butch mechanic, and I think, you know, you probably expect her to be more of the top in the situation. But Alex is not shy when it comes to getting what she wants. 

And I love pretty much any time either of them calls the other one sweetheart.

__What do you hope listeners take away from this series?__

I mean…I’m not sure it’s appropriate to say. Seriously, though, I want listeners to think it’s hot! I write romance because I love romance, and of course there are a lot of important lessons about loving yourself and letting yourself be loved, but also sometimes the most important part for me is that it’s hot. Not everything has to be that deep! 

__Tropes are so popular in fiction...what are some of your favorites in the queer romance genre?__

I always say my favorite trope is forbidden romance, but that’s really a cheat answer because it encompasses so many others. Forbidden can mean boss-assistant, age gap, best friend’s sibling (or mom 😏), and even something less obvious like rivals to lovers. I just love anything where characters know they really shouldn’t be falling for each other, but they do anyway. 

__What do you imagine comes next for Sierra and Alex?__

It’s tempting to say they live happily ever after, but I don’t know that we leave them in a place where we can be sure that’s where they end up. Alex has more work to do on figuring out what it is that she wants in life, and maybe a long term relationship with Sierra fits with that and maybe it doesn’t. That’s another way writing this was different than writing a book—this series is really only a glimpse into the lives of these characters. Their future is nebulous. What comes next? Whatever you want. 


Meryl Wilsner knows how to write about queer love. The Detour is a summer roadtrip story reimagined, think Thelma and Louise but the sapphic storyline isn’t just in the subtext… 

Meryl Wilsner Brings Sapphic Summer Spice To Dipsea 

The Detour by Meryl Wilsner

Meryl Wilsner Brings Sapphic Summer Spice To Dipsea

## Frequently Asked Questions

---

### __What is Dipsea?__

Dipsea is the app for spicy audiobooks and more, featuring your favorite tropes and irresistible characters. Crafted by a team of professional writers and top-tier narrators, it’s next-gen romance created by and for women.

You can download Dipsea in the App Store, Google Play Store, or browse audiobooks [here](https://www.dipseastories.com/discover/). 

### __What can I listen to with a free trial?__

You’ll get access to the entire Dipsea library when you sign up for a free trial. Choose an annual or monthly subscription and explore 1000+ spicy audiobooks, romance novels, sleep scenes, and steamy sounds. 

### __How often is there new content?__

New content is released each week and with thousands of stories to explore, there’s plenty to discover.

### __Who are the people behind the app?__

We're a [women-led team](https://www.dipseastories.com/about/) of writers, producers, and engineers who are obsessed with making the very best audio romance. Every story on Dipsea has been created by us. And we partner with an incredible network of narrators to guarantee the quality of every single story.

### __What makes Dipsea different?__

We like to think of Dipsea as HBO for your ears. It isn’t just your average romance audiobook—it’s like the juiciest scenes from your favorite spicy story, but better… Crafted with care by our team of professional writers, voice actors, and audio producers, each story in our library is a high-quality, immersive sonic experience. And because our content is created by women, the female gaze is always front and center.

### __Can I work for Dipsea?__ 

We’re only as great as the people we work with, and we’d love to meet you. Check out the current opportunities for working with us:

- [Work with us](https://angel.co/dipsea/jobs)
- [Voice act for us](https://www.dipseastories.com/voice/)  


Read the FAQs to find out what Dipsea is and learn more about the team behind it.

Dipsea FAQ

FAQ-v2

Go behind the scenes of Wings of Winter. Listen to the podcast or read along as the creative team talks about the inspiration behind Alex and Isa, and spills many series secrets. 

Raise the bar podcast cover art

The Making of Raise the Bar

Go behind the scenes of Wings of Winter. Listen to the podcast or read along as the creative team behind the story spills all the series' secrets.

Romantasy Blog Picture

The Making of Wings of Winter

Go behind the scenes of Lone Wolf. Listen or read along as the creative team tell the story of how this modern western was made.

Fictional Men Written By Women: Lone Wolf

The Making of Lone Wolf

Who… hasn’t seen a TED Talk? Their videos are ubiquitous on the internet, teaching us about humanity, culture, science, and technology. TED is the best curator of ideas in the world, exposing us to the most exciting new concepts and the thinkers that brought them to life. 

So when our co-founder, Gina, was invited to give a TED Talk on the main stage alongside speakers like Al Gore, Elon Musk, Bill Gates, and Olympian Allyson Felix…well, we were all freaking out. It’s an honor, and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to spread some of the messages we care most about at Dipsea. We hope Gina’s talk will help a lot more people feel a lot more agency over their own pleasure and sexual wellness. 

In the talk, Gina shares that while we intuitively understand that our minds matter when it comes to sex, we massively underestimate the power of our own imaginations in giving us pleasure. That’s especially true for women, by the way–whose physical arousal systems can be kicked into overdrive, or shut off completely, by the thoughts that they’re thinking. The solution, she says, is simpler than you’d think. Get comfortable using your own sexual imagination. Flex it like a muscle. And explore where those stories take you. 

The video is now live, so check it out! 

On the eve of the video’s release, we asked Gina a few questions about how it all went down in Vancouver. Here’s what she had to say: 

How does someone even get discovered for a TED Talk?

Most people who speak at TED are found by “Curators”, who go out and seek people that are doing the most interesting things in whatever category. What’s interesting about how I got found is that it was actually because of an article about one of our competitors. And I remember reading the article and saying to my co-founder Faye, “Wow that was a big win for them,” and then I got the call from TED. At the very end of the article the writer had said, “But there is this one company Dipsea and they’re ahead of the game and have been doing this for longer,” and my Curator pulled that thread and looked us up. 

Did you get any challenging feedback or pushback?

I don’t expect people who aren’t talking about sex all day every day like I am to pick it up right where I’m putting it down, you know what I mean? Everyone’s baseline is so different. Some people feel really sex-comfortable and so me trying to talk in a way that makes sense to the average person can feel too basic. But more often, it can make people feel uncomfortable. Maybe because they were made to feel shame growing up, or never got sex education, or have hangs ups that they’ve struggled to kick – and for those people, any conversation around sex feels really edgy. 

That’s why I always try and calibrate based on who I’m talking to. Which is hard, when you’re talking to thousands of people. Everyone’s going to have a different baseline. 

And that showed up while I was preparing for TED too. When I was rehearsing with the TED team, who are actually a very diverse group of people, a 60+ year old man said that he thought it was dangerous for me to recommend that people who are married fantasize about whatever they want. And so I had to say, respectfully: you asked me to come and give this talk for a reason, and so I’m going to give it. Fantasy isn’t a gateway drug to infidelity, or worse. That’s just one among many myths that we really, really need to debunk. 

What was harder, writing it or memorizing it?

Ohhh. Writing is hard because there’s only so much you can say in 10 minutes! And you can’t say it all. It feels like this one shot, and you have to make it count! But I felt that the memorizing was the most stressful part. When you repeat the same thing over and over 100 times, you start to feel like none of it makes sense. But I did learn some really helpful [memorization techniques](https://www.linkedin.com/posts/ginagutierrez1_ted2022-publicspeaking-tipsandtricks-activity-6932774255529013248-TELk?utm_source=linkedin_share&utm_medium=member_desktop_web).   

Any cool moments from your time at TED in Vancouver?

So many! Getting there was overwhelming and a little intimidating. You’re like, "Oh my gosh there’s that person, and there’s that person." A woman came up to me backstage in a rehearsal room after I practiced on stage for the first time and she had tousled hair and big sunglasses and she said, “I heard your rehearsal, I loved your talk!” and I said “Oh, thank you!” and only later did I realize that it was Meg Ryan. 

I also just felt really inspired by what so many people had to say. I remembered that the future is going to be shaped by all kinds of passionate people, each one obsessed with their particular way of making the world a better place.

How do you think the talk went? Are you happy with it? Was there more that you wish you got to say?

Ask me after I see the video go live tomorrow (laughs)! Yes, I am happy with it. But there is always more that I want to say. We’re only just scratching the surface on helping people discover how to be their fullest, realest, most empowered selves in the bedroom and beyond. I’m hopeful a video like mine gets people hearing ideas like these for the first time feeling…curious. And inspired. 

Did it go well? What’s the crowd like at TED?

It did! Shout out to some of the women in the front rows who gave me a standing O. But yeah, most people in the TED audience aren’t 18-35 year old female-identifying people…so, I’d say the energy was more like “big intro lecture” than “hyped up vibes”. At one point in the talk I play an audio clip and I could visibly feel 1,500 people freeze up (laughs). They thought I was going to play a Dipsea story. 

What was your favorite line from the talk?

There’s a part about “you being the protagonist” that I really liked. I thought it was a powerful message. But I also thought it was hilarious that the biggest laugh I got was a line I totally ad-libbed – and the joke I made about Outlander got crickets! I thought everybody would get that reference (laughs).

What do you hope people take away from your TED Talk?

I hope people hear it and take one extra step towards taking more agency over their own sex life. Maybe that’s trying a new thing. Maybe that’s trying out an imagination exercise. Maybe that’s downloading Dipsea. I hope it makes people feel like they don’t need to wait, that it starts with them.  

Who… hasn’t seen a TED Talk? Their videos are ubiquitous on the internet, teaching us about humanity, culture, science, and technology. TED is the best curator of ideas in the world, exposing us to the most exciting new concepts and the thinkers that brought them to life. 

So when our co-founder, Gina, was invited to give a TED Talk on the main stage alongside speakers like Al Gore, Elon Musk, Bill Gates, and Olympian Allyson Felix…well, we were all freaking out. It’s an honor, and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to spread some of the messages we care most about at Dipsea. We hope Gina’s talk will help a lot more people feel a lot more agency over their own pleasure and sexual wellness. 

![Gina on TED stage](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/wvpvC66YdKh78OG2VAIDN/300007da24adbaed89e0b379ec4fdde1/3f631978-6dce-487b-8aad-2c5eb19fe2c1-New-2.jpg)

In the talk, Gina shares that while we intuitively understand that our minds matter when it comes to sex, we massively underestimate the power of our own imaginations in giving us pleasure. That’s especially true for women, by the way–whose physical arousal systems can be kicked into overdrive, or shut off completely, by the thoughts that they’re thinking. The solution, she says, is simpler than you’d think. Get comfortable using your own sexual imagination. Flex it like a muscle. And explore where those stories take you. 

The video is now live, [so check it out](http://go.ted.com/ginagutierrez "The link between sex and imagination")!

<div style="position:relative;height:0;padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://embed.ted.com/talks/lang/en/gina_gutierrez_the_link_between_sex_and_imagination" width="854" height="480" style="position:absolute;left:0;top:0;width:100%;height:100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

On the eve of the video’s release, we asked Gina a few questions about how it all went down in Vancouver. Here’s what she had to say:  

### How does someone even get discovered for a TED Talk?

Most people who speak at TED are found by “Curators”, who go out and seek people that are doing the most interesting things in whatever category. What’s interesting about how I got found is that it was actually because of an article about one of our competitors. And I remember reading the article and saying to my co-founder Faye, “Wow that was a big win for them,” and then I got the call from TED. At the very end of the article the writer had said, “But there is this one company Dipsea and they’re ahead of the game and have been doing this for longer,” and my Curator pulled that thread and looked us up. 

### Did you get any challenging feedback or pushback?

I don’t expect people who aren’t talking about sex all day every day like I am to pick it up right where I’m putting it down, you know what I mean? Everyone’s baseline is so different. Some people feel really sex-comfortable and so me trying to talk in a way that makes sense to the average person can feel too basic. But more often, it can make people feel uncomfortable. Maybe because they were made to feel shame growing up, or never got sex education, or have hangs ups that they’ve struggled to kick – and for those people, any conversation around sex feels really edgy. 

That’s why I always try and calibrate based on who I’m talking to. Which is hard, when you’re talking to thousands of people. Everyone’s going to have a different baseline. 

And that showed up while I was preparing for TED too. When I was rehearsing with the TED team, who are actually a very diverse group of people, a 60+ year old man said that he thought it was dangerous for me to recommend that people who are married fantasize about whatever they want. And so I had to say, respectfully: you asked me to come and give this talk for a reason, and so I’m going to give it. Fantasy isn’t a gateway drug to infidelity, or worse. That’s just one among many myths that we really, really need to debunk. 

### What was harder, writing it or memorizing it?

Ohhh. Writing is hard because there’s only so much you can say in 10 minutes! And you can’t say it all. It feels like this one shot, and you have to make it count! But I felt that the memorizing was the most stressful part. When you repeat the same thing over and over 100 times, you start to feel like none of it makes sense. But I did learn some really helpful [memorization techniques](https://www.linkedin.com/posts/ginagutierrez1_ted2022-publicspeaking-tipsandtricks-activity-6932774255529013248-TELk?utm_source=linkedin_share&utm_medium=member_desktop_web).   

### Any cool moments from your time at TED in Vancouver?

So many! Getting there was overwhelming and a little intimidating. You’re like, "Oh my gosh there’s that person, and there’s that person." A woman came up to me backstage in a rehearsal room after I practiced on stage for the first time and she had tousled hair and big sunglasses and she said, “I heard your rehearsal, I loved your talk!” and I said “Oh, thank you!” and only later did I realize that it was Meg Ryan. 

I also just felt really inspired by what so many people had to say. I remembered that the future is going to be shaped by all kinds of passionate people, each one obsessed with their particular way of making the world a better place.

### How do you think the talk went? Are you happy with it? Was there more that you wish you got to say?

Ask me after I see the video go live tomorrow (laughs)! Yes, I am happy with it. But there is always more that I want to say. We’re only just scratching the surface on helping people discover how to be their fullest, realest, most empowered selves in the bedroom and beyond. I’m hopeful a video like mine gets people hearing ideas like these for the first time feeling…curious. And inspired. 

### Did it go well? What’s the crowd like at TED?

It did! Shout out to some of the women in the front rows who gave me a standing O. But yeah, most people in the TED audience aren’t 18-35 year old female-identifying people…so, I’d say the energy was more like “big intro lecture” than “hyped up vibes”. At one point in the talk I play an audio clip and I could visibly feel 1,500 people freeze up (laughs). They thought I was going to play a Dipsea story. 

### What was your favorite line from the talk?

There’s a part about “you being the protagonist” that I really liked. I thought it was a powerful message. But I also thought it was hilarious that the biggest laugh I got was a line I totally ad-libbed – and the joke I made about Outlander got crickets! I thought everybody would get that reference (laughs). 

### What do you hope people take away from your TED Talk?

I hope people hear it and take one extra step towards taking more agency over their own sex life. Maybe that’s trying a new thing. Maybe that’s trying out an imagination exercise. Maybe that’s downloading Dipsea. I hope it makes people feel like they don’t need to wait, that it starts with them.

Dipsea's co-founder, Gina Gutierrez, talks about the power of our imaginations, the beauty of audio, and the importance of taking pleasure into your own hands on the main stage at TED.