Erotica writing and editing
I’ve been writing erotica for 20 years, including publication in over 100 anthologies, as well as websites and branded erotica projects in collaboration with sex toy companies. I’ve also edited over 70 erotica anthologies for multiple publishers, including the Cleis Press Best Bondage Erotica of the Year and Best Women’s Erotica of the Year series; see below for a selection of them, or Cleis Press’s site for my numerous anthologies they’ve published. My nonfiction guide How to Write Erotica was published February 14, 2023.
My anthologies have won multiple IPPY (Independent Publisher) Awards and 3 National Leather Association-International Samois Anthology Awards. I also teach erotica writing workshops online and offline, and provide manuscript consulting services with erotica and nonfiction sexuality authors via my site Erotica Writing 101, providing guidance on plot, characterization, sex scenes, publishing, marketing and building an author brand. Read what students and clients have said about working with me.
Testimonials by authors who’ve been published in my erotica anthologies:
“Rachel Kramer Bussel is one of the most giving and generous editors I've ever worked with. Her anthologies are the perfect place for authors just starting out or even seasoned writers to explore desire and expand their boundaries.” Award-winning author Suleikha Snyder
“It is always a dream come true to have my short stories published in Rachel Kramer Bussel's anthologies! I've been lucky enough to be included in several collections edited by Rachel. She took a chance on me as a writer early in my career, and her edits helped me develop my voice as a young erotica author. In an industry that is too often exclusionary, opaque and competitive, Rachel brings a collaborative and transparent spirit to her work. She has an eye for cultivating new talent and offering opportunities to diverse voices.” Ella Dawson, sex and culture critic, author of But How Are You, Really
“Working with Rachel as a contributor to both Best Women's Erotica of the Year, Volume 4 and the anthology Erotic Teasers was a rewarding experience for me as a writer. I learned not only more about my writing style but new methods on how to make my sexy stories more sensual. I keep my eyes peeled for her anthology opportunities on a monthly basis. Writers, link with her!” Eliza David, romance author and wellness blogger
“I’ve worked with many editors, and Rachel Kramer Bussel is one of the best. She is thorough, supportive, prompt and always professional. With her, your work will be in good hands from submission to promotion.” Mia Hopkins, author of Thirsty
“Rachel has a clear passion for this genre, far beyond her knowledge of the market for erotic fiction. She understands erotica as an ever-changing art form, with the potential to inspire and excite readers while touching their lives and relationships. At every step, she's made me feel free to experiment and helped me to grow as an artist. Every part of the editorial process has made me a better writer, and it's an honor for my work to be included in the beautiful mosaic of stories she's selected for her anthologies.” Alexa J. Day, USA Today bestselling author
“Over the past few years, I have been honored and blessed to have worked with Rachel on several short stories. Of all the amazing skills she has as an editor, it’s her attention to detail I find the most beneficial. She’s a champion of the writer. Her supportive notes not only help move your stories in a positive direction with more clarity, they also feel as if you have someone in your corner bringing out the best in your work. I always look forward to her notes because if gives me a chance to adjust my work so my words to pop off the page and enhance the original intent of my writing.” Kendel Davi
“Since meeting my editor, Rachel Kramer Bussel, in November 2015, every story I’ve submitted to her has been better because of something I learned from her. She asks questions that support creativity while adhering to high standards for writing and professionalism. Her style of feedback is clear and concise. What I most appreciate about Rachel is her inspirational passion for writing, and that shows up in every interaction. Working with her is a pleasure.” Dr. J., aka Donna Jennings, Ph.D., author of “Infused Leather” in Best Women's Erotica of the Year, Volume 3
“Rachel Kramer Bussel is an insightful and accomplished editor. Over the years, I have worked with her on several of my stories published by Cleis Press and I learn something every time.” Amanda Earl, writer, editor, publisher, Ottawa, Canada
“Until recently, I hadn't written much erotica, but am now several drafts into a short erotic novel; my story's inclusion in The Big Book of Orgasms, Volume 2 has offered a welcome boost of confidence in the writing of this current project.” Z. S. Roe
For five years, I hosted an erotic reading series called In The Flesh in New York City, featuring over 300 authors including Megan Abbott, Jonathan Ames, Jami Attenberg, Paula Bomer, Susie Bright, Lily Burana, Tracie Egan, Gael Greene, Megan Hart, Josh Kilmer-Purcell, Julie Klausner, Jillian Lauren, Michael Musto, Rakesh Satyal, Cecilia Tan, and Zane, among others.
About my work, BUST has written, “If you want to start boning up (har) on quality erotica, you’ll want to start with the work of some stellar modern female authors. Perhaps best known is Rachel Kramer Bussel, who edits and contributes to a slew of top-notch anthologies.” According to Audible, “Rachel Kramer Bussel is the most knowledgeable and prolific book editor and spoken word producer in contemporary erotic literature.” Women’s sexuality website Bellesa has written, “Rachel Kramer Bussel is arguably one of the most influential names in erotica and has been for some time.”
My erotica writing, editing and teaching have also been covered in Las Vegas Weekly, Bust, Marie Claire UK, and other publications.
Below are a selection of my books, including some of the 70+ anthologies I’ve edited.
