The erotiske is notorious for its sexy scenes and eroticism, but the right books can be more than that. Often, they have a deeper storyline that explores the raw intensity of desire and relationships, with plenty of fireworks in between. From classics to modern masterpieces, these smutty novels go far beyond mere descriptions of sex.

Temptation’s Sweet Surrender

In the 18th century, directories of prostitutes and their services were an important part of erotic literature, as were accounts of brothels. These days, accounts of prostitution are less common, but erotic fiction still provides insight into the nature of human sexuality and can also function as satire or social criticism.

For a truly erotic literary novel, look no further than Emmanuelle, a steamy 1967 French story of a young bisexual woman who seduces men and women of all ages everywhere from her overnight flight to Bangkok to her squash court to an opium den. The (many) erotic scenes are luscious and sensual, with an almost soap-opera-like quality that’s sure to turn even the most staunch spinster’s stomach.

Another recent example is Vox, which functions as a transcript of an actual phone call between Abby and Jim, two strangers who connect on a phone sex line in the 1990s. This erotic literary novel is wildly entertaining, full of sex and lust and questions about love, commitment and sex. Moreover, it serves as a brilliant reminder of the power and influence of erotic fiction.