Books matching: dark fantasy romance
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- #1
A dark, emotional rollercoaster perfect for fans of villain lovers and gritty fantasy romance, but be sure you’re okay with heavy triggers - this isn’t your cozy, feel-good read!
'Feathers so Vicious' in the series 'Court of Ravens' by Liv Zander is a dark fantasy story set in a world at war between humans and raven shifters. The plot evolves around Galantia, who is kidnapped by two ravens, Serbian and Malyr, on her journey to an allied prince's kingdom. The book is filled with steamy moments, angst, and a love triangle/harem romance dynamic. The writing style is described as beautifully written, with excellent world-building and multi-POV storytelling that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
August 2023•414 pages - #2
A deliciously dark circus fantasy with a one-of-a-kind villain romance - creepy, clever, and spicy (eventually!). Read if you love your love interests unhinged and your plots drenched in gothic atmosphere.
Step right up to the twisted world of 'The Contortionist' in the 'Harrow Faire' series by Kathryn Ann Kingsley. This dark and unique tale follows Cora, a young woman living a mundane life plagued by chronic pain until a mysterious circus reopens in town, bringing with it a cast of eccentric characters and a villainous hero named Simon. As Cora's world is turned upside down, she finds herself entangled in a dark and seductive romance with Simon, exploring themes of love, danger, and the supernatural. The story unfolds with a slow burn, captivating the reader with vivid descriptions, intriguing plot twists, and a touch of macabre that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
Kathryn Ann Kingsley weaves a spellbinding narrative in 'The Contortionist', blending elements of horror, romance, and fantasy into a mesmerizing tale that delves into the depths of human nature. Through Cora's eyes, readers are drawn into a world filled with bright lights, haunting sounds, and a sense of foreboding that sets the stage for a grand adventure. With a cast of complex characters, including the enigmatic Simon and a diverse array of circus performers, the story unfolds with a perfect mix of darkness and light, keeping readers enthralled from start to finish.
The dilapidated towers of wood scaffolding stabbed at the sky like bony fingers reaching out of the dirt. Broken and burnt bulbs sat in rusted sockets and had not illuminated the night sky in decades....September 2020•272 pages - #3
A dark, emotional, and atmospheric setup to a much-loved fantasy series. "Gild" is worth a read if you love slow-burn, character-driven tales and can handle heavy themes - but prepare for a slow start before the real magic begins in the sequels.
Gild by Raven Kennedy is an adult fantasy novel that delves into the story of Auren, the gold-plated prisoner of King Midas. Auren, a victim of Stockholm syndrome, is kept confined in a gilded cage within the castle of Highbell. The book sets the premise for the series, exploring Auren's complex relationship with Midas and her yearning for freedom. The writing style is described as steamy, taboo, and a great reimagining of the King Midas myth, with a focus on world-building and character development.
The lighting is low, deliberate. Just a crackle of flame over promiscuous shapes that move in warm tandem. Seven bodies working all to one sole release, while I’m here, apart, like a spectator for a s...October 2020 - #4
A unique, devastating, and beautifully written dark fantasy romance that isn't for the faint of heart, but will deeply move those ready for a challenging, emotional journey.
'Lan of the Beautiful Dead' by R. Lee Smith is a post-apocalyptic fantasy novel that follows the story of Lan, a sassy and foul-mouthed young woman, who ventures into Haven to meet Azrael, the Master and Lord of Earth. Despite Azrael's unconventional appearance and dark past, Lan forms a complex relationship with him, leading to unexpected twists and turns in the plot. The book delves into themes of love, morality, and personal growth, all while offering a unique and detailed world-building experience. The writing style is described as fantastic, emotional, and rich in character development, with a mix of romance, philosophy, and epic storytelling.
Lan got out, moving carefully along the van’s armored roof and trying not to look at the Eaters clambering below her. They hadn’t seen many on the drive, but there were always Eaters at the towns and...October 2015•751 pages - #5
A brutal, addictive political fantasy with masterful slow-burn tension. Not for the faint of heart, but unforgettable if you’re up for a dark, challenging ride.
In "Captive Prince" by C.S. Pacat, readers are introduced to a gripping tale of political intrigue and complex relationships in a Greco-Roman inspired alternate world. The story follows Prince Damianos, betrayed by his half-brother and sent as a slave gift to the enemy kingdom's crown prince, Laurent. As the plot unfolds, readers are immersed in a world filled with palace intrigue, strong character development, and an intricate political climate that keeps them hooked till the end. The slow-burn romance between the two main characters, Damen and Laurent, adds a layer of tension and depth to the narrative, making it a compelling read for fans of male-male romance.
The book has been praised for its intricate world-building, well-written characters, and the way it handles themes of politics, power dynamics, and betrayal. The narrative is described as intense, engaging, and filled with suspense, with readers finding themselves invested in the lives of the characters and eager to uncover the twists and turns of the story as it unfolds across the trilogy.
DAMEN CAME BACK to himself in stages, his drugged limbs heavy against the silk cushions, the gold cuffs on his wrists like lead weights. His eyelids raised and lowered. The sounds he heard made no sen...2013•295 pages - #6
A gorgeously written and atmospheric fantasy with a fresh magic system and gothic thrills, but it requires patience through its slower, lore-rich start. Worth picking up if you crave originality and mood in your fantasy reads!
'One Dark Window' in the 'Shepherd King' series by Rachel Gillig is an enchanting, dark, gothic tale about Elspeth, a girl with a big secret - an infection that gave her magic but comes with a price. Elspeth is pulled into a treasonous plot against the king to gather all the Twelve Cards of Magic gifted by the Spirit of the Wood to undo a blight on her kingdom. The story unfolds with Elspeth navigating the political landscape, dealing with a monster in her head, and falling in love while trying to save their kingdom. The writing style is described as rhythmic, captivating, enchanting, and immersive, drawing readers into a world filled with riddles, mystery, and magic.
The plot twists, including a big unexpected twist at the end, keep readers on the edge of their seats, with bone-chilling poems and jaw-dropping moments that drive home the storyline. The unique magic system, the atmospheric vibes, and the complex characters like Elspeth and Ravyn Yew add depth to the story, creating a lush gothic Romantasy that captivates readers and leaves them eagerly awaiting the next installment.
September 2022•394 pages - #7
A hugely popular, polarizing paranormal romance: sizzling chemistry and action with big alpha energy and even bigger consent issues. If you like your stories wild, sexy, and are okay suspending disbelief, dive in - otherwise, you may want to skip or start further into the series.
A Hunger Like No Other by Kresley Cole is the first book in the Immortals After Dark series, featuring a unique paranormal romance plot with a mix of vampires, werewolves, and other creatures. The story follows the captive Emmaline, a mix of Valkyrie and Vampire, and the fierce Lykae king, Lachlain MacRieve, who has been imprisoned for centuries. The book explores their evolving relationship, challenges, and the intricate world of the Lore, filled with various supernatural beings. The writing style is engaging, with a mix of humor, passion, and fast-paced storytelling that keeps readers hooked till the end.
On an island in the Seine, against the nighttime backdrop of an ageless cathedral, the denizens of Paris came out to play. Emmaline Troy wound around fire-eaters, pickpockets, and chanteurs de rue. Sh...2006•384 pages - #8
A brilliantly written, jaw-droppingly dark fantasy with challenging themes and major trigger warnings - read only if you’re ready for a seriously twisted ride.
'King of Flesh and Bone' in the series 'The Pale Court' by Liv Zander is a dark fantasy romance that delves into the complex relationship between Ada and Enosh, the King of Flesh and Bone. Ada, a strong-willed and stubborn character, finds herself in the hands of Enosh, an undying god with a cruel and manipulative exterior but a lonely and heartbroken interior. As their interactions unfold, Enosh's possessiveness clashes with Ada's determination to escape, leading to a tumultuous and passionate dynamic between them. The book is set in a dreary and unforgiving realm, filled with dark villains and personal pain, creating a twisted and gripping plot that keeps readers hooked till the very last page.
“The dead are restless.” I glanced out the rain-blurred window toward the cemetery, the air inside the house thick with sweat and the sweetness of amniotic fluid. “You better start pushing now or my h...April 2022•260 pages - #9
A steamy, addictive fantasy romance with sirens and fae, but world-building and side character depth could be stronger. If you crave romance-forward fantasy and can overlook some clichés, this is a fan favorite for good reason.
Rhapsodic by Laura Thalassa is a paranormal romance novel that follows the story of Callie, a Siren who makes a deal with the enigmatic Bargainer to clean up a mess in her past. The book alternates between past and present, unraveling layers of emotions and mysteries as Callie navigates her complicated relationship with the Bargainer. Set in California and the Otherworld, the story is fast-paced, mysterious, and sexy, with well-developed characters and a touch of eerie elements. The writing style includes witty banter, a mix of darkness and heroism in characters, and focuses on relationship development over plot, creating a captivating and enchanting tale.
Chapter 1 Present A file folder drops to the desk in front of me. “You’ve got mail, bitch.” I lower my mug of steaming coffee from my mouth, my eyes flicking up from my laptop. Temperance “Temper” Dar...November 2016•422 pages - #10
Unputdownable dark fantasy romance with intense emotional highs and lows, complex characters, and rich world-building - just make sure you’re ready for a wild, sometimes harrowing ride. Check those content warnings first!
"Rain of Shadows and Endings" in the series "Legacy" by Melissa K Roehrich is a dark fantasy romance set in the modern world where Fae serve the Legacy. The story follows Tessa Fae and Theon Legacy, where Theon chooses Tessa as his source, leading to a dangerous and gripping tale of control, power dynamics, and wild storms. The plot is intense and wild, filled with unanswered questions, betrayals, and intricate character arcs. The writing style is described as captivating, with complex characters, strong world-building, and a perfect balance between darkness and romance.
The book delves deep into themes of mental health, toxic relationships, trauma, and the complexities of power dynamics. Readers praise the emotional depth of the characters, the vulnerability portrayed, and the relatable inner monologues that make the story engaging and thought-provoking. The dynamic between Fae and Legacy characters, along with the intense push and pull relationship between Tessa and Theon, keeps readers on the edge of their seats, eager to uncover more about the intricate world of Devram.
August 2023•750 pages










