Enjoy Romance But Not Smut…

Like many of you, I absolutely adore a good romance novel. The butterflies, the witty banter, the slow burn, the emotional connection – it’s just the best! But let's be real, sometimes those overly explicit 'spicey scenes' can really take you out of the moment, or even worse, make you want to put the book down entirely. POV: You cringe at Spicey scenes but enjoy a good book... sound familiar? This was totally my reality for so long! It felt like finding a truly wholesome or 'closed-door' romance was like searching for a needle in a haystack. I just wanted to enjoy the romance without feeling awkward or having to skim entire pages. I saw someone online share a simple trick, and it was a total game-changer for me. It's not one magic button, but a combination of strategies that helps me filter out the 'spice' and find those sweet, satisfying reads. Here are my go-to strategies that have transformed my reading life: Goodreads & StoryGraph Tags: These platforms are goldmines! When I'm browsing or looking at a specific book, I always check the tags and content warnings. Look for terms like "clean romance," "closed door," "fade to black," "sweet romance," or "no explicit content." Conversely, if I see tags like "spicy," "steamy," or "explicit," I know to proceed with caution or skip it entirely if I'm not in the mood for that kind of content. Reading Reviews (Carefully!): I've learned to read reviews through a specific lens. Many readers will mention the 'spice level' without giving away too much. Look for phrases like "perfect for those who prefer clean reads," "the romance is slow burn and sweet," or "all the emotions without the steam." If multiple reviews mention anything about the heat level, it gives me a good indicator of what to expect. BookTok & Bookstagrammers Who Get It: I actively seek out content creators who specifically recommend 'clean' or 'closed-door' romance. They often curate lists and offer detailed reviews that include spice ratings or warnings. Following them has introduced me to so many incredible authors I wouldn't have found otherwise. They're like my personal romance censors, in the best way! Specific Subgenres: Certain subgenres tend to lean cleaner. Think historical romance (especially many Regency era novels), cozy mysteries with a strong romantic subplot, and often (though not always!) Young Adult (YA) romance. Christian romance is another clear category for those seeking explicit-free love stories. Author Reconnaissance: Once I find an author whose style I love and who consistently writes the kind of romance I enjoy, I stick with them! It's like finding a trusted brand. Many authors will even state their 'spice level' preference in their author bios or on their websites, which is incredibly helpful. This approach has totally transformed my reading life. I can pick up a book with confidence, knowing I'm in for a delightful story focused on character development, emotional intimacy, and plot, without any surprises that make me uncomfortable. It makes reading a much more relaxing and enjoyable experience. What are your favorite tips for finding romance without smut? Share your secrets! I'm always looking for new ways to expand my 'clean romance' TBR pile.