Our Heat Levels Explained

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Heat Levels Guide

Not all stories are created equal — and that’s a good thing! Our Heat Levels help readers find books that match their personal comfort zones and reading preferences. Whether you enjoy lighthearted tales or more intense journeys, this guide will help you navigate content with confidence.


Level 1 – Light & Accessible

Appropriate for all audiences.
No explicit content, graphic violence, or strong language. These stories are gentle, uplifting, and often low in conflict — perfect for readers of any age or those seeking cozy comfort.

Common Genres:
Uplifting fiction • Children’s or middle grade books • Soft inspiration • Wholesome romance • Cozy reads


Level 2 – Mild Themes

Soft tension with limited intensity.
Includes light romantic or emotional themes, mild conflict, or very limited profanity. No on-page intimacy or graphic material. Safe for most readers who prefer gently dramatic stories.

Common Genres:
Light fiction • Cozy mysteries • Coming of age tales • Feel good fiction • Humorous memoirs


Level 3 – Moderate / Teen-Friendly

A step deeper into emotion and realism.
Moderate language, closed-door romance, or non-graphic violence may be present. These books explore mature topics with restraint and are suitable for older teens or adults looking for balanced storytelling.

Common Genres:
Young adult fiction • Romantic comedies • Light thrillers • Contemporary fiction • Memoirs with emotional themes


Level 4 – Mature Content

Emotionally and physically intense.
Includes on-page intimacy, strong language, or graphic/emotional scenes. Designed for adult readers who appreciate more raw or complex narratives.

Common Genres:
Romantic suspense • Dark fantasy • Crime fiction • Domestic thrillers • Emotionally layered stories


Level 5 – Explicit / Intense Content

Bold, raw, and unfiltered.
Features explicit sex, graphic violence, heavy emotional themes, or taboo content. Not for the faint of heart or sensitive readers — these books push boundaries and provoke thought.

Common Genres:
Erotic fiction • Dark romance • Psychological thrillers • Horror • Trauma memoirs • Taboo fiction


Why Heat Levels Matter:
We believe in informed reading. Our heat levels aren’t about judgment — they’re here to help readers make empowered choices and help authors clearly communicate what their stories contain.
Choose your comfort zone, explore new boundaries, or stay where your heart feels happiest — the story is yours to enjoy.

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Later, after the dishes are done and the house falls into that soft, sleepy hush, I step out onto the porch. The air smells like pine and a hint of grilled corn, and somewhere a coyote yips into the night before settling back into silence.
I sink into the porch swing, pulling my knees close, and stare out at the stars. They’re sharp and scattered tonight, like someone flung a handful of diamonds across black velvet.
Emma’s words from earlier echo in my head: “You can’t outrun something that’s already in your heart.”
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I close my eyes, and in the silence, the truth settles heavy and sure.
I want to belong here, more than I should, more than I planned.
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Category Spotlight

  • Free Book: 12/27/2025 Confessions of A Charismatic Christian by Rick Dewhurst
  • Free Book: 12/27/2025 Confessions of A Charismatic Christian by Rick Dewhurst
  • Free Book: 12/27/2025 Confessions of A Charismatic Christian by Rick Dewhurst

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