The above list might make you a little red in the face on the train (or prompt some weirdos to come up to you), but it’s worth it — and not just because it’s fun to read about sex. These books also provide insight into so many different facets of relationships and offer us a look into the history of sex.

But these aren’t the only books that do so! Which other erotic highbrow novels have you enjoyed? Which literary sex scenes have been permanently seared into your memory? Tell us all about it in the comments below!