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Let’s talk about guilty pleasure reads—those books that bring us joy, even if they don’t always fit the mold of what others might deem “highbrow” or “serious.”

The term guilty pleasure has a somewhat negative connotation, implying that we should feel some form of shame or embarrassment for enjoying something. But do we really need to feel guilty for what we love to read?

Does “Guilty Pleasure” Still Apply?

The whole concept of a “guilty pleasure” is a bit outdated, don’t you think? At its core, it suggests that there’s something wrong with enjoying a genre or type of book that doesn’t conform to conventional expectations of literature. Whether it’s romance, YA fantasy, graphic novels, or manga, why should we feel guilty for picking up something that makes us happy?

In the past, perhaps there was more judgment around reading what was considered “low culture” (think: romance novels or comic books). But today, literature has evolved, and so has the way we approach different genres. Graphic novels and manga, once thought of as niche or juvenile, have become literary staples. Authors like Marjane Satrapi, Raina Telgemeier, and Ta-Nehisi Coates have brought graphic novels into the mainstream, showing that this medium has the power to tell serious, thought-provoking stories.

Should We Feel Ashamed or “guilty” for enjoying a certain genre or non-traditional type of book (i.e. graphic novels, manga)?

Absolutely not! We should never feel ashamed of what we enjoy reading. Reading is about personal enjoyment, learning, and exploration—whether that’s through a classic novel, a fantasy epic, or a lighthearted rom-com. Books should be a source of comfort, joy, and escape. If we find ourselves indulging in a genre that’s “not serious” by certain standards, it shouldn’t make us feel bad.

If you like books that make you laugh, escape into new worlds, or offer a comforting love story, that’s a win. There’s no need to compare your reading habits to someone else’s idea of what “good” literature is. Every book holds value, and every genre has something to offer.

My Guilty Pleasures (That Aren’t So Guilty)

I’ll be the first to admit, I have my own list of so-called “guilty pleasures” that might make some people raise an eyebrow. But to me, these are just books that spark joy—and isn’t that what reading is all about? No shame in that!

1. Romance Novels – Some might argue that romance novels are formulaic, but the truth is, I love losing myself in a well-written love story. Whether it’s the cozy thrill of a friends-to-lovers plot, the intensity of a forbidden romance, or the emotional depth of a second-chance love, I can’t help but keep coming back for more. There’s something so comforting about the slow build, the tension, and, of course, the happy endings.
2. Sports Romance – I never realized how much I needed sports romance until I started reading it. The energy, the passion, the fierce competition—it all adds a layer of excitement to the romance that I didn’t know I was missing. From star athletes finding love with someone who’s not impressed by their fame, to rivals learning to work together on and off the field, sports romance gets my heart racing in the best way.
3. Brother’s Best Friend Trope – This trope has me hooked every single time. There’s something about the tension between the sweet, often forbidden attraction and the deep bond of friendship that makes for the perfect mix of angst and romance. The whole dynamic of the older brother’s protective instincts combined with the undercurrent of desire? Chef’s kiss.
4. English Classics – Call it cliché, but I’ll never grow tired of the beauty and complexity found in English classics. From the biting social commentary of Jane Austen to the gothic atmosphere of Emily Brontë, these novels have a timeless charm. There’s just something magical about getting lost in the world of 19th-century England and the intricacies of its characters.
5. Graphic Novels & Manga – These mediums have completely changed the way I experience stories. The combination of art and narrative brings the characters and worlds to life in ways traditional books can’t always achieve. Whether it’s a fast-paced superhero story or a quiet, reflective journey in a coming-of-age manga, there’s a graphic novel or manga for every mood, and I can’t get enough of them.
6. Cozy Mysteries – Who doesn’t love a good mystery that isn’t too intense? Cozy mysteries are perfect for when I want to take a break from more serious reads but still enjoy a little intrigue. The gentle pacing, quirky characters, and often charming, small-town settings make them a delightful escape. Whether it’s the classic Agatha Christie novels or the more modern-day mysteries like those featuring Jessica Fletcher in Murder, She Wrote, cozy mysteries always provide a satisfying puzzle with a side of comfort.

So, whether it’s the swoon-worthy romance, the thrilling sports competition, or the cozy charm of a good mystery, these books are my guilty pleasures—but honestly, I don’t feel guilty about them at all! They bring me joy, they entertain me, and they remind me why I love reading in the first place.

What about you? Do you have any “guilty pleasures” that you embrace without shame, or do you think the term still holds some weight? Share your thoughts in the comments!

Books On My TBR That Might Be “Guilty Pleasures”

• “Bridget Jones’s Diary” by Helen Fielding
• “The Chocolate Thief” by Janice MacLeod
• “The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes” by Arthur Conan Doyle
• “The Princess Diaries” by Meg Cabot
• “The Southern Vampire Mysteries” by Charlaine Harris
• “The Hating Game” by Sally Thorne
• “The Vampire Chronicles” by Anne Rice
• Bridgerton Series by Julia Quinn

Guilty pleasures don’t deserve the negative stigma we sometimes associate with them. Reading is a personal journey, and we should never feel ashamed of what we love. Whether you’re into fantasy, romance, graphic novels, or something more niche, if it brings you joy, then it’s worth reading. Embrace your “guilty pleasures”—they’re just pleasures, after all.

So, whether it’s the swoon-worthy romance, the adrenaline of sports, or the charm of a cozy mystery, these books are my guilty pleasures—but honestly, I don’t feel guilty about them at all! They bring me joy, they entertain me, and they remind me why I love reading in the first place.

What about you? Do you have any “guilty pleasures” on your TBR, or books that others might judge but you can’t wait to read? Let me know in the comments!So, what are some of your guilty pleasure reads? Are there any books or genres that you enjoy but feel like you “shouldn’t” love? Let’s chat in the comments!

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