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Read more on this in Spicy Spectrum's What He's Thinking series

In this episode of Spicy Spectrum, I explore why so many of us are drawn to darker stories, taboo themes, and fantasies that live just outside what we are taught is acceptable.

I am joined by Bria Rose, a dark romance writer known for her fairytale retellings, kink positive themes, and emotionally complex characters. We talk about how storytelling creates a safe space to explore the shadow self, why darker narratives resonate so deeply, and how fiction allows us to examine desire, power, fear, and vulnerability without shame. Bria shares insight into her creative process, her personal journey with sexual liberation, and the responsibility that comes with handling sensitive themes thoughtfully.

After the interview, I take the conversation deeper by unpacking the concept of the shadow self, a term coined by Carl Jung to describe the hidden or repressed parts of our personality. I talk about why these urges often surface through fantasy, kink, and erotic play, and how exploring them safely and consciously can support self awareness, communication, and intimacy rather than guilt or repression.

This episode is an invitation to approach fantasy with curiosity instead of judgment, to understand what darker desires are trying to teach us, and to integrate the parts of ourselves we were taught to silence.

Learn more about Bria Rose and her work at https://authorbriarose.com/

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