*Header artwork by [Sampai Arts](https://www.instagram.com/sampaiarts/p/C40bGMKrjVM/)*

Tamlin, a major figure in [Sarah J. Maas’s](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/sarah-j-maas/) “A Court of Thorns and Roses” (ACOTAR) series, is one of the most complicated and debated characters on [#BookTok](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/spicy-booktok/).

And here, dear reader, is where I must immediately warn you of spoilers. If you have not read these books (or if the internet hasn’t already spoiled a thing or two), this is as far as you should go...

While Tamlin starts out as the main love interest (I did warn you), his arc takes a handful of unexpected and controversial turns as the series progresses. Tamlin’s journey is one of struggle and loss, though there’s a great deal of controversy as to whether or not he’s owed any sympathy.

## Who is Tamlin?
Introduced as the High Lord of the Spring Court, one of the seven courts in the magical land of Prythian, Tamlin is described as tall and golden-haired with a commanding presence that draws Feyre, the series' protagonist, into his orbit. At first glance, Tamlin embodies all the classic hallmarks of a fairytale hero: strong, protective, powerful, sexy. 

Beneath the polished exterior, though, lies a character battling bone-deep guilt and the heavy weight of responsibility for his people.

Tamlin’s sense of duty is both a blessing and a burden. His desire to shield his court from harm often pushes him to take extreme measures, which makes him a divisive figure within the fandom. It has even given him an incredibly [unattractive nickname](https://www.tiktok.com/@theunsolicited_podcast/video/7344770393732910379) on social media...

## So what makes Tamlin tick?

![Tamlin-and-Feyre-hugging](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/4X1qW2qAYJtzIMEqoyCtmq/958292ea5ef1b095666090ebb9d11b05/Tamlin-and-Feyre-hugging.jpg)
*Art by [Sampai Arts](https://www.instagram.com/sampaiarts/p/C38MWW-PFKv/)*

Tamlin’s instinct to protect is central to his character, whether it’s safeguarding Feyre or the Spring Court as a whole. However, this trait is also his downfall. His fierce protectiveness often borders on control issues, especially when it comes to Feyre, and this trait begins to unravel his character in later books. His immense power and strength is a big part of what makes him believe that he can (or *should*) protect anything, regardless of the circumstances.

Tamlin also carries an overwhelming sense of guilt from past decisions and the events that have harmed his court. His failure to prevent a 50-year curse on the Spring Court deeply impacts his behavior throughout the series. This means his relationship with power is complicated. While he wields it with confidence, he struggles with how to balance that power with compassion and empathy. (Kind of necessary qualities for a leader, you know?)

## Tamlin in “A Court of Thorns and Roses”

![Tamlin-and-Feyre](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/7LcInR6chWVzl8iUdHSU1n/d139cfd6f5125b52baefe9f8836f1896/Tamlin-and-Feyre.jpg)
*Art by [Sampai Arts](https://www.instagram.com/sampaiarts/p/C38MWW-PFKv/)*

In the [first book](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/50659467-a-court-of-thorns-and-roses), abbreviated by fans as ACOTAR, Tamlin appears as the classic fairytale prince in disguise. [Feyre Archeron](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/feyre-archeron/), a human huntress, kills a faerie wolf while hunting in the woods to care for her impoverished family. In retaliation, Tamlin, in his beast form, comes to claim payment for the life she took. Feyre surrenders herself to protect her father and her sisters, Nesta and Elain.

Despite the rough start, Tamlin soon begins to reveal his softer side, and he opens up his home to Feyre, protecting her from Prythian’s dangers and eventually falling in love with her.

Much of ACOTAR is about Feyre’s growing affection for Tamlin as she learns more about the curse placed on him and his court by Amarantha, a powerful villainess who keeps a terrifying grip on Prythian from her court Under the Mountain. 

Tamlin tries to send Feyre away in a last ditch effort to protect her, but Feyre returns to rescue him only to be trapped in a series of challenges while Tamlin is forced to spectate. It’s during this gauntlet that Feyre makes a deal with [Rhysand](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/rhysand-acotar/), the enigmatic and mysterious High Lord of the Night Court and Tamlin’s sworn enemy.

When Feyre defeats Amarantha’s trials, she is turned into a faerie herself, but things between her and Tamlin have irrevocably changed. __Tamlin’s love for Feyre in ACOTAR seems genuine, but it is also a love tainted by fear and control__. By the end of the first book, Tamlin is free from Amarantha’s grip, but his emotional scars are far from healed.

## Tamlin in “A Court of Mist and Fury” (ACOMAF)

![Tamlin-looking-down](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/PsGT6FNDY2MPmT5cgEnJn/80add8bfcab97e2c8c9b0a9535073230/Tamlin-looking-down.jpg)
*Art by [Buy the Books](https://www.instagram.com/buy.the.books/p/Czyo-EnLk4s/)*

This is where things get more complicated—and controversial. 

In “[A Court of Mist and Fury](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/50659468-a-court-of-mist-and-fury),” Tamlin’s protective nature becomes more stifling and controlling. After the traumatic events Under the Mountain, Feyre suffers from severe PTSD, but instead of helping her heal, Tamlin’s response is to lock her away. Literally. 

He keeps Feyre confined in his estate, trying to shield her from any harm but suffocating her in the process. And don’t even get me started on Ianthe, the manipulative high priestess pulling puppet strings on Tamlin’s behalf.

The second book is a critical turning point in Tamlin’s arc. __His good intentions to protect Feyre morph into something toxic and even abusive__. In trying to control every aspect of her life, he believes he can shield her from every harm, but what Tamlin fails to understand is that Feyre needs freedom and agency to heal. 

His refusal to let her make her own choices only pushes Feyre away. It doesn’t help that the bond she made with a certain High Lord of the Night Court pulls her out of Tamlin’s clutches for a week every month...

Eventually, Feyre escapes to Velaris, the Night Court’s hidden city, with Rhysand’s help (further solidifying my love for his cousin/third-in-command Mor), creating an intense rift between her and Tamlin. Devastated, Tamlin allows his anger at Feyre’s departure to fuel a poisonous urgency to get her back. Enlisting Lucien to capture her back and ignoring her pleas to leave her be, Tamlin only loses his grip on what’s left of his control.

After allying with the King of Hybern, the Big Bad who ranks even higher than Amarantha, in a misguided attempt to "rescue" Feyre, Tamlin unwittingly sets Feyre loose to spy inside of the Spring Court. Aligning himself with a force that wants to destroy everything Feyre holds dear is disastrous and further alienates him from Feyre and readers alike.

## Tamlin in “A Court of Wings and Ruin” (ACOWAR)
In “[A Court of Wings and Ruin](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/50659472-a-court-of-wings-and-ruin),” Tamlin has fully convinced himself that he is acting in Feyre’s best interest, and although he appears to have resolved to do better by her, he again fails to understand who she truly is. 

Not only have her allegiances shifted to Rhys and the Night Court, she has fully embraced her power as a High Fae (not to mention her secret position as High Lady). Still blinded by his need to possess her rather than partner with her, Tamlin falls further and further into a mania that only strengthens Feyre’s resolve to betray him (to be honest, he totally deserves it).

There’s a pretty tense meeting between the High Lords that’s both alarmingly frustrating and oh-so-very satisfying. Tamlin behaves like a spoiled child slinging insults, but we do get a delicious moment of Azriel’s protective side. IYKYK.

Toward the end of ACOWAR, Tamlin shows a few lingering signs of redemption, though. During the final battle against Hybern, Tamlin puts aside his personal grievances for the sake of the larger cause. 

__While he doesn’t win Feyre back, Tamlin’s willingness to save Rhys’s life demonstrates that he still has a sense of honor and a desire to protect__, even if he has lost sight of how to properly channel those instincts.

## Tamlin in “A Court of Frost and Starlight” (ACOFAS)

![Tamlin](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/6fcRfgANYu3QjVhaF2nSzN/8b769c0c59efe5a372e6ce23bb75a3db/Tamlin.jpg)
*Art by [Rokii](https://www.instagram.com/artworks_by_rokii/p/CsWFnRmLrDj/)*

Tamlin’s role in “[A Court of Frost and Starlight](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/50659471-a-court-of-frost-and-starlight)” is so small, you’d almost miss it if you weren’t paying attention, but his cameo is significant.

We see him as a broken man, isolated and alone in the ruins of his once beautiful estate. The Spring Court has fallen into disrepair, and Tamlin’s emotional state mirrors the decay of his surroundings. He’s bitter and regretful, grappling with the consequences of his actions.

__This is where readers get a more sympathetic look at Tamlin__. He’s a character who has lost everything—his love, his power, his purpose. While his actions in previous books were harmful, this quieter portrayal shows a man who is coming to terms with his failures. 

And no, I’m not trying to sway you in any direction. Personally, I think he needs to suffer a lot longer before he gets anything resembling a redemption arc, but that’s up to our girl SJM.

## What could be next for Tamlin?
Tamlin’s arc is one of the most tragic in the ACOTAR series. He starts out as a hero and protector, but his inability to cope with his trauma and fear leads him down a path of control and desperation. 

__By the end of the series, he is a broken character who has lost almost everything.__ 

While there’s almost no mention at all of him in the fifth ACOTAR book “[A Court of Silver Flames” (ACOSF)](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/53138095-a-court-of-silver-flames), the specter of him remains, leaving fans to wonder if there’s more to his story than we’ve gotten so far.

What makes Tamlin compelling is that he’s not a one-dimensional "bad guy." His journey is complex, and while plenty of readers may be disappointed in him, there’s also an undercurrent of pity. He’s a character who wanted to do the right thing but consistently made the wrong choices. (Again, not defending the guy. He hasn’t been my fave since midway through book one.)

__Ultimately, though, Tamlin represents the dangers of unchecked power and the toll of emotional scars__. He might not have ended up as the series’ hero, but his story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of healing from deep emotional wounds and the consequences of not facing one’s demons, an element I don’t think Sarah J. Maas is quite done exploring yet. 

Love him or hate him, I wouldn’t be surprised if Tamlin popped up again in books to come.

If you’ve finished the series and want to cure your ACOTAR hangover, we’ve got [11 books you should read next](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/books-like-a-court-of-thorns-and-roses/).

*Header artwork by [Sampai Arts](https://www.instagram.com/sampaiarts/p/C40bGMKrjVM/)*

Tamlin, a major figure in [Sarah J. Maas’s](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/sarah-j-maas/) “A Court of Thorns and Roses” (ACOTAR) series, is one of the most complicated and debated characters on [#BookTok](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/spicy-booktok/).

And here, dear reader, is where I must immediately warn you of spoilers. If you have not read these books (or if the internet hasn’t already spoiled a thing or two), this is as far as you should go...

While Tamlin starts out as the main love interest (I did warn you), his arc takes a handful of unexpected and controversial turns as the series progresses. Tamlin’s journey is one of struggle and loss, though there’s a great deal of controversy as to whether or not he’s owed any sympathy.

## Who is Tamlin?
Introduced as the High Lord of the Spring Court, one of the seven courts in the magical land of Prythian, Tamlin is described as tall and golden-haired with a commanding presence that draws Feyre, the series' protagonist, into his orbit. At first glance, Tamlin embodies all the classic hallmarks of a fairytale hero: strong, protective, powerful, sexy. 

Beneath the polished exterior, though, lies a character battling bone-deep guilt and the heavy weight of responsibility for his people.

Tamlin’s sense of duty is both a blessing and a burden. His desire to shield his court from harm often pushes him to take extreme measures, which makes him a divisive figure within the fandom. It has even given him an incredibly [unattractive nickname](https://www.tiktok.com/@theunsolicited_podcast/video/7344770393732910379) on social media...

## So what makes Tamlin tick?

![Tamlin-and-Feyre-hugging](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/4X1qW2qAYJtzIMEqoyCtmq/958292ea5ef1b095666090ebb9d11b05/Tamlin-and-Feyre-hugging.jpg)
*Art by [Sampai Arts](https://www.instagram.com/sampaiarts/p/C38MWW-PFKv/)*

Tamlin’s instinct to protect is central to his character, whether it’s safeguarding Feyre or the Spring Court as a whole. However, this trait is also his downfall. His fierce protectiveness often borders on control issues, especially when it comes to Feyre, and this trait begins to unravel his character in later books. His immense power and strength is a big part of what makes him believe that he can (or *should*) protect anything, regardless of the circumstances.

Tamlin also carries an overwhelming sense of guilt from past decisions and the events that have harmed his court. His failure to prevent a 50-year curse on the Spring Court deeply impacts his behavior throughout the series. This means his relationship with power is complicated. While he wields it with confidence, he struggles with how to balance that power with compassion and empathy. (Kind of necessary qualities for a leader, you know?)

## Tamlin in “A Court of Thorns and Roses”

![Tamlin-and-Feyre](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/7LcInR6chWVzl8iUdHSU1n/d139cfd6f5125b52baefe9f8836f1896/Tamlin-and-Feyre.jpg)
*Art by [Sampai Arts](https://www.instagram.com/sampaiarts/p/C38MWW-PFKv/)*

In the [first book](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/50659467-a-court-of-thorns-and-roses), abbreviated by fans as ACOTAR, Tamlin appears as the classic fairytale prince in disguise. [Feyre Archeron](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/feyre-archeron/), a human huntress, kills a faerie wolf while hunting in the woods to care for her impoverished family. In retaliation, Tamlin, in his beast form, comes to claim payment for the life she took. Feyre surrenders herself to protect her father and her sisters, Nesta and Elain.

Despite the rough start, Tamlin soon begins to reveal his softer side, and he opens up his home to Feyre, protecting her from Prythian’s dangers and eventually falling in love with her.

Much of ACOTAR is about Feyre’s growing affection for Tamlin as she learns more about the curse placed on him and his court by Amarantha, a powerful villainess who keeps a terrifying grip on Prythian from her court Under the Mountain. 

Tamlin tries to send Feyre away in a last ditch effort to protect her, but Feyre returns to rescue him only to be trapped in a series of challenges while Tamlin is forced to spectate. It’s during this gauntlet that Feyre makes a deal with [Rhysand](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/rhysand-acotar/), the enigmatic and mysterious High Lord of the Night Court and Tamlin’s sworn enemy.

When Feyre defeats Amarantha’s trials, she is turned into a faerie herself, but things between her and Tamlin have irrevocably changed. __Tamlin’s love for Feyre in ACOTAR seems genuine, but it is also a love tainted by fear and control__. By the end of the first book, Tamlin is free from Amarantha’s grip, but his emotional scars are far from healed.

## Tamlin in “A Court of Mist and Fury” (ACOMAF)

![Tamlin-looking-down](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/PsGT6FNDY2MPmT5cgEnJn/80add8bfcab97e2c8c9b0a9535073230/Tamlin-looking-down.jpg)
*Art by [Buy the Books](https://www.instagram.com/buy.the.books/p/Czyo-EnLk4s/)*

This is where things get more complicated—and controversial. 

In “[A Court of Mist and Fury](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/50659468-a-court-of-mist-and-fury),” Tamlin’s protective nature becomes more stifling and controlling. After the traumatic events Under the Mountain, Feyre suffers from severe PTSD, but instead of helping her heal, Tamlin’s response is to lock her away. Literally. 

He keeps Feyre confined in his estate, trying to shield her from any harm but suffocating her in the process. And don’t even get me started on Ianthe, the manipulative high priestess pulling puppet strings on Tamlin’s behalf.

The second book is a critical turning point in Tamlin’s arc. __His good intentions to protect Feyre morph into something toxic and even abusive__. In trying to control every aspect of her life, he believes he can shield her from every harm, but what Tamlin fails to understand is that Feyre needs freedom and agency to heal. 

His refusal to let her make her own choices only pushes Feyre away. It doesn’t help that the bond she made with a certain High Lord of the Night Court pulls her out of Tamlin’s clutches for a week every month...

Eventually, Feyre escapes to Velaris, the Night Court’s hidden city, with Rhysand’s help (further solidifying my love for his cousin/third-in-command Mor), creating an intense rift between her and Tamlin. Devastated, Tamlin allows his anger at Feyre’s departure to fuel a poisonous urgency to get her back. Enlisting Lucien to capture her back and ignoring her pleas to leave her be, Tamlin only loses his grip on what’s left of his control.

After allying with the King of Hybern, the Big Bad who ranks even higher than Amarantha, in a misguided attempt to "rescue" Feyre, Tamlin unwittingly sets Feyre loose to spy inside of the Spring Court. Aligning himself with a force that wants to destroy everything Feyre holds dear is disastrous and further alienates him from Feyre and readers alike.

## Tamlin in “A Court of Wings and Ruin” (ACOWAR)
In “[A Court of Wings and Ruin](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/50659472-a-court-of-wings-and-ruin),” Tamlin has fully convinced himself that he is acting in Feyre’s best interest, and although he appears to have resolved to do better by her, he again fails to understand who she truly is. 

Not only have her allegiances shifted to Rhys and the Night Court, she has fully embraced her power as a High Fae (not to mention her secret position as High Lady). Still blinded by his need to possess her rather than partner with her, Tamlin falls further and further into a mania that only strengthens Feyre’s resolve to betray him (to be honest, he totally deserves it).

There’s a pretty tense meeting between the High Lords that’s both alarmingly frustrating and oh-so-very satisfying. Tamlin behaves like a spoiled child slinging insults, but we do get a delicious moment of Azriel’s protective side. IYKYK.

Toward the end of ACOWAR, Tamlin shows a few lingering signs of redemption, though. During the final battle against Hybern, Tamlin puts aside his personal grievances for the sake of the larger cause. 

__While he doesn’t win Feyre back, Tamlin’s willingness to save Rhys’s life demonstrates that he still has a sense of honor and a desire to protect__, even if he has lost sight of how to properly channel those instincts.

## Tamlin in “A Court of Frost and Starlight” (ACOFAS)

![Tamlin](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/6fcRfgANYu3QjVhaF2nSzN/8b769c0c59efe5a372e6ce23bb75a3db/Tamlin.jpg)
*Art by [Rokii](https://www.instagram.com/artworks_by_rokii/p/CsWFnRmLrDj/)*

Tamlin’s role in “[A Court of Frost and Starlight](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/50659471-a-court-of-frost-and-starlight)” is so small, you’d almost miss it if you weren’t paying attention, but his cameo is significant.

We see him as a broken man, isolated and alone in the ruins of his once beautiful estate. The Spring Court has fallen into disrepair, and Tamlin’s emotional state mirrors the decay of his surroundings. He’s bitter and regretful, grappling with the consequences of his actions.

__This is where readers get a more sympathetic look at Tamlin__. He’s a character who has lost everything—his love, his power, his purpose. While his actions in previous books were harmful, this quieter portrayal shows a man who is coming to terms with his failures. 

And no, I’m not trying to sway you in any direction. Personally, I think he needs to suffer a lot longer before he gets anything resembling a redemption arc, but that’s up to our girl SJM.

## What could be next for Tamlin?
Tamlin’s arc is one of the most tragic in the ACOTAR series. He starts out as a hero and protector, but his inability to cope with his trauma and fear leads him down a path of control and desperation. 

__By the end of the series, he is a broken character who has lost almost everything.__ 

While there’s almost no mention at all of him in the fifth ACOTAR book “[A Court of Silver Flames” (ACOSF)](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/53138095-a-court-of-silver-flames), the specter of him remains, leaving fans to wonder if there’s more to his story than we’ve gotten so far.

What makes Tamlin compelling is that he’s not a one-dimensional "bad guy." His journey is complex, and while plenty of readers may be disappointed in him, there’s also an undercurrent of pity. He’s a character who wanted to do the right thing but consistently made the wrong choices. (Again, not defending the guy. He hasn’t been my fave since midway through book one.)

__Ultimately, though, Tamlin represents the dangers of unchecked power and the toll of emotional scars__. He might not have ended up as the series’ hero, but his story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of healing from deep emotional wounds and the consequences of not facing one’s demons, an element I don’t think Sarah J. Maas is quite done exploring yet. 

Love him or hate him, I wouldn’t be surprised if Tamlin popped up again in books to come.

If you’ve finished the series and want to cure your ACOTAR hangover, we’ve got [11 books you should read next](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/books-like-a-court-of-thorns-and-roses/).

Tragic hero or toxic predator? Hurting or harmful? Read this recap and analysis of Tamlin’s journey through the ACOTAR series and decide for yourself.

The rise and fall of Tamlin in ‘A Court of Thorns and Roses’

Tamlin-ACOTAR

Ready to take your next solo sesh to a whole new level? That's what Dipsea is for.

Dipsea is an app for Sexy Stories, Sleep Scenes, and Wellness Sessions designed to turn you on and then tuck you in.

In the vast world of romance fiction, few tropes have stood the test of time quite like forbidden love. Whether it’s star-crossed lovers with an ill fate, characters kept apart by social boundaries, or a coupling that could have life-or-death consequences, there’s something about the forbidden love trope that has kept romance fans rapt for generations. But, why exactly, do we keep coming back for more?

## Reasons we love it
If we’re keeping it simple, forbidden love is such a popular trope for one reason: It feels good to be bad. People love breaking the rules and defying expectations, and that’s especially true when it comes to love. But, if we want to go a little more in-depth on the forbidden love trope (and we do), there are a few traits that make romance fans keep coming back for more.

### Emotional conflict
First, there’s the emotional conflict, which is at the heart of forbidden love and creates a powerful tension that drives the narrative. 

Characters in these stories often struggle with intense feelings of desire, guilt, and fear as they wrestle with the implications of their attraction. 

The forbidden nature of the relationship—whether due to societal norms, personal boundaries, or ethical dilemmas—forces them to question their own values and make difficult choices. This internal conflict forces characters to reconcile what they want with what they believe.

### Obstacles
The opposite of internal conflict are external obstacles. These obstacles can be a number of things—societal expectations, familial disapproval, or even personal issues—that prevent the characters from fully pursuing their relationship. 

For example, a workplace romance could have real-life consequences such as being fired from a job or overlooked for a promotion. Not only do these challenges test the couple’s commitment to each other, but it forces them to confront their expectations and priorities. 

This helps them experience growth and transformation, creating the ultimate satisfying ending.

### Pining
Finally, there’s the pining! Sweet, sweet, excruciating pining. 

Due to their relationship being forbidden, characters are often unable to fully express their feelings, leading to a tumultuous internal struggle. This yearning creates an emotional tension that can be both heartbreaking and exhilarating, as they navigate their feelings in secrecy. (Is it just us, or is sneaking around extra spicy?) 

As they grapple with their desires, the tension of pining deepens their connection, making for an even better love story.

## Exploring the genres of forbidden love

### Historical fiction
A forbidden love story that takes place within a historical setting forces characters to face rigid societal expectations surrounding same-sex relationships, class, religion, race, and ethnicity. 

While contemporary romance explores these themes, the consequences in earlier eras were far more severe, creating intense tension and drama.

### Contemporary romance
Contemporary forbidden love usually centers on themes that are taboo in a modern setting, such as:

- Age gap romances
- Workplace romances
- Affairs
- [Student/teacher relationships](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/college-romance-books/)
- Falling for your best friend’s sibling (or parent!)

### Romantasy
While some forbidden love scenarios in other genres can feel like life or death, it’s usually more literal in [fantasy romance](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/romantasy-books/). Falling for a sworn enemy during war times? Dangerous, ill-advised, and oh so juicy! 

In a world where magic, fate, and power come into play, the stakes aren’t just high, they’re astronomical.

### Paranormal romance
Paranormal romance has built-in conflict that makes forbidden love all the more alluring. Characters may belong to different worlds, such as:

- Humans and vampires
- Witches and mortals
- Shapeshifters and their prey

This creates inherent conflicts that challenge their connection. 

And when you add supernatural abilities or long-written destinies into the mix, things only get complicated further. The potential consequences create a dramatic element that makes these types of romances unputdownable.

### Young adult romance
Ah, young love. Though the real-life stakes may not feel as high in YA romance, the [emotional angst](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/angsty-romance-books/) is very, very real. 

Falling in love for the first time in high school can seem dramatic enough, but if it’s your best friend’s brother or someone in a different clique? Look out! 

The pressures of adolescence, search for identity, and thrill of first love combine to make a story that makes the characters' journeys feel authentic and relatable.

## Finding forbidden love in media
Forbidden love is such a popular trope that it’s been depicted in the media for decades, even in love songs! (“How Deep Is Your Love” by the Bee Gees and “I’d Do Anything for Love” by Meat Loaf being two prime examples.) 

But to start, let’s look at some examples from movies and TV.

Take “Romeo and Juliet” for example. The Shakespeare play was written back in the 16th century and is probably the pop culture blueprint for the forbidden love trope: star-crossed lovers from two warring families who make the ultimate sacrifice for their love. It’s tragic, it’s beautiful, and it’s iconic.

“Brokeback Mountain,” on the other hand, is a historical forbidden love story about [two men falling in love](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/gay-romance-books/). American cowboys Jack and Ennis fall for each other, but are forced to part ways and start families with women since homosexuality was illegal in the 1960s.

![Jack-and-Ennis-from-Brokeback-Mountain](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/RXIepH6JzvDLVLhjAXxoI/2f6ed2357cb2ede663122d9c1ce2c408/Jack-and-Ennis-from-Brokeback-Mountain.jpg)

Speaking of the ‘60s, the class disparity shown in “Dirty Dancing” made Johnny and Baby’s love even more taboo.

Movies like “The Idea of You” and “The Graduate” both feature the taboo trope of an age gap romance. The former follows Anne Hathaway as a mom who falls for a 20-something pop star, the latter on a 21-year-old college graduate who has an affair with his girlfriend’s mother.

![Hayes-and-Solène-from-The-Idea-of-You](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/7lnVZCyW0m4aLsR5fECU79/5bb1eb57b883d2d037ca78ba5772ccb6/Hayes-and-Sole_ne-from-The-Idea-of-You.jpg)

What about a high school setting? “The Breakfast Club” displays an athlete and a basket case, as well as a princess and a criminal, falling for each other despite being in different cliques. 

“Twilight” is a paranormal forbidden love story between a human and a vampire, while “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” was a TV show that featured a vampire hunter falling for not one, but two, vampires. Drama!

Move over, “90-Day Fiancé.” There’s a new reality TV show to get obsessed with: “Forbidden Love,” a show that explores what happens when a couple face the hurdle of religion. Whether it’s converting to the Muslim faith, leaving the Amish, or navigating their families’ ultimatums, it’s clear that religion is still a real-life challenge for many couples. Ah, the things you do for love!

![Forbidden-Love](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/6PjozMSEZmnoCjaw9WRaKa/8488c2ec3f5fdc13fe71ad51f70027c6/Forbidden-Love.jpg)

One of our ultimate favorite tainted love stories? The TV show “Scandal.” A show about a fixer who falls for the married President of the United States could not get any juicier. 

![Fitz-and-Olivia-from-Scandal](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/6E53g2yD9cMz8xu0fgxyDr/d8e9fdee492a039b3ce55d8b89954239/Fitz-and-Olivia-from-Scandal.jpg)

The power dynamics, affair element, societal perceptions—paired with the highest possible stakes and world-ending consequences—made Fitz and Liv’s relationship the ultimate forbidden love story. (No offense to Romeo and Juliet!)

## Trying out the taboo
Ready to say “I do” to forbidden love? These original spicy romance audiobooks from Dipsea are the perfect place to start.

![Off-the-Coast](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/1Xp4bzrDQRJ35t1wpt4Ert/ca16c725f1b2e85134454b42f9d1fd40/Off-the-Coast.jpg)

“[Off the Coast](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/off-the-coast-series/)” is a new series that follows Leah, an aspiring writer who moves back to her Maine hometown to work on her short story collection. While lounging on the beach one day, she’s surprised to run into June—the woman her ex-boyfriend Nate cheated on her with. 

Even more surprising is the lack of animosity between them. Instead, there’s a [sizzling chemistry](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/wlw-books/) neither of them can explain. The two hatch a plan to get revenge on Nate and—after crashing his fancy yacht party—stage a kiss that proves to be more troubling to them than Nate. The kiss unearthed a complicated desire for the last person they should want to be with: each other.

![Lecture-Me-by-Dipsea](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/6qCAxInGdtSFmzr9IdT88R/0e9e0e530d749f3feb254a6e2991db22/Lecture-Me-by-Dipsea.jpg)

Nothing says taboo (and steamy!) like a teacher/student relationship. In “[Lecture Me](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/lecture-me-series/),” Jane is a student who has just finished her final college class with Professor James. 

When she visits his office to wrap things up, their long-standing attraction bubbles to the surface and they give in to their desires. Are they willing to risk their academic reputations and everything they’ve worked for by pursuing their new forbidden love?

![Wine-Country](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/4bHrIJbdGZuDoxdZdaFW6W/fe746959a549a227efd197ce2826a9d8/Wine-Country.jpg)

“[Wine Country](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/wine-country-series/)” is about Florence, a vineyard owner who hires an expert to survey the land and critique the wine.

Tim, an attractive Englishman, is curt and ruthless with his assessment, putting them on a bad footing. But once they’ve both consumed too much wine, their disdain for each other goes out the window and is replaced by raw attraction. 

If she starts a relationship with an employee, things could end badly. But Florence may already be too drunk in love to care.

![Forbidden-Fruit-by-Dipsea](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/6HHLJVLmtmTE2uzbm1MOCV/419db33d27c53afcf2f150bf674ae987/Forbidden-Fruit-by-Dipsea.jpg)

For Greek mythology with a spicy twist, check out “[Forbidden Fruit](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/forbidden-fruit-series/).” When Persephone leaves the bacchanal in her honor and bumps into Hades, he persuades her to take a little unsanctioned vacation to the Underworld. 

There, Persephone gives into her most hedonistic desire, but when responsibility comes calling, she leaves and returns to Olympus—keeping her relationship with Hades that’s now bound by magic a secret from the other Gods. If they were to be caught, even immortality couldn’t keep them safe.

## Crossing the line for love
Forbidden love has stayed a timeless and beloved trope because it speaks to our universal desires—to love freely, to challenge boundaries, and to defy expectations. The tension between what the heart wants and what society deems acceptable creates high stakes and intense emotions that keep readers coming back to see if love will beat the odds.

Ready to explore even more popular romance tropes and what makes them hot? Dipsea has a finger on the pulse of culture, and our spicy audiobooks are the best romantic fiction brought to life. Don’t just take our word for it—sign up for a [30-day free trial](https://www.dipseastories.com/subscribe/?f=2&promo=signup30d) and see for yourself!

In the vast world of romance fiction, few tropes have stood the test of time quite like forbidden love. Whether it’s star-crossed lovers with an ill fate, characters kept apart by social boundaries, or a coupling that could have life-or-death consequences, there’s something about the forbidden love trope that has kept romance fans rapt for generations. But, why exactly, do we keep coming back for more?

## Reasons we love it
If we’re keeping it simple, forbidden love is such a popular trope for one reason: It feels good to be bad. People love breaking the rules and defying expectations, and that’s especially true when it comes to love. But, if we want to go a little more in-depth on the forbidden love trope (and we do), there are a few traits that make romance fans keep coming back for more.

### Emotional conflict
First, there’s the emotional conflict, which is at the heart of forbidden love and creates a powerful tension that drives the narrative. 

Characters in these stories often struggle with intense feelings of desire, guilt, and fear as they wrestle with the implications of their attraction. 

The forbidden nature of the relationship—whether due to societal norms, personal boundaries, or ethical dilemmas—forces them to question their own values and make difficult choices. This internal conflict forces characters to reconcile what they want with what they believe.

### Obstacles
The opposite of internal conflict are external obstacles. These obstacles can be a number of things—societal expectations, familial disapproval, or even personal issues—that prevent the characters from fully pursuing their relationship. 

For example, a workplace romance could have real-life consequences such as being fired from a job or overlooked for a promotion. Not only do these challenges test the couple’s commitment to each other, but it forces them to confront their expectations and priorities. 

This helps them experience growth and transformation, creating the ultimate satisfying ending.

### Pining
Finally, there’s the pining! Sweet, sweet, excruciating pining. 

Due to their relationship being forbidden, characters are often unable to fully express their feelings, leading to a tumultuous internal struggle. This yearning creates an emotional tension that can be both heartbreaking and exhilarating, as they navigate their feelings in secrecy. (Is it just us, or is sneaking around extra spicy?) 

As they grapple with their desires, the tension of pining deepens their connection, making for an even better love story.

## Exploring the genres of forbidden love

### Historical fiction
A forbidden love story that takes place within a historical setting forces characters to face rigid societal expectations surrounding same-sex relationships, class, religion, race, and ethnicity. 

While contemporary romance explores these themes, the consequences in earlier eras were far more severe, creating intense tension and drama.

### Contemporary romance
Contemporary forbidden love usually centers on themes that are taboo in a modern setting, such as:

- Age gap romances
- Workplace romances
- Affairs
- [Student/teacher relationships](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/college-romance-books/)
- Falling for your best friend’s sibling (or parent!)

### Romantasy
While some forbidden love scenarios in other genres can feel like life or death, it’s usually more literal in [fantasy romance](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/romantasy-books/). Falling for a sworn enemy during war times? Dangerous, ill-advised, and oh so juicy! 

In a world where magic, fate, and power come into play, the stakes aren’t just high, they’re astronomical.

### Paranormal romance
Paranormal romance has built-in conflict that makes forbidden love all the more alluring. Characters may belong to different worlds, such as:

- Humans and vampires
- Witches and mortals
- Shapeshifters and their prey

This creates inherent conflicts that challenge their connection. 

And when you add supernatural abilities or long-written destinies into the mix, things only get complicated further. The potential consequences create a dramatic element that makes these types of romances unputdownable.

### Young adult romance
Ah, young love. Though the real-life stakes may not feel as high in YA romance, the [emotional angst](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/angsty-romance-books/) is very, very real. 

Falling in love for the first time in high school can seem dramatic enough, but if it’s your best friend’s brother or someone in a different clique? Look out! 

The pressures of adolescence, search for identity, and thrill of first love combine to make a story that makes the characters' journeys feel authentic and relatable.

## Finding forbidden love in media
Forbidden love is such a popular trope that it’s been depicted in the media for decades, even in love songs! (“How Deep Is Your Love” by the Bee Gees and “I’d Do Anything for Love” by Meat Loaf being two prime examples.) 

But to start, let’s look at some examples from movies and TV.

Take “Romeo and Juliet” for example. The Shakespeare play was written back in the 16th century and is probably the pop culture blueprint for the forbidden love trope: star-crossed lovers from two warring families who make the ultimate sacrifice for their love. It’s tragic, it’s beautiful, and it’s iconic.

“Brokeback Mountain,” on the other hand, is a historical forbidden love story about [two men falling in love](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/gay-romance-books/). American cowboys Jack and Ennis fall for each other, but are forced to part ways and start families with women since homosexuality was illegal in the 1960s.

![Jack-and-Ennis-from-Brokeback-Mountain](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/RXIepH6JzvDLVLhjAXxoI/2f6ed2357cb2ede663122d9c1ce2c408/Jack-and-Ennis-from-Brokeback-Mountain.jpg)

Speaking of the ‘60s, the class disparity shown in “Dirty Dancing” made Johnny and Baby’s love even more taboo.

Movies like “The Idea of You” and “The Graduate” both feature the taboo trope of an age gap romance. The former follows Anne Hathaway as a mom who falls for a 20-something pop star, the latter on a 21-year-old college graduate who has an affair with his girlfriend’s mother.

![Hayes-and-Solène-from-The-Idea-of-You](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/7lnVZCyW0m4aLsR5fECU79/5bb1eb57b883d2d037ca78ba5772ccb6/Hayes-and-Sole_ne-from-The-Idea-of-You.jpg)

What about a high school setting? “The Breakfast Club” displays an athlete and a basket case, as well as a princess and a criminal, falling for each other despite being in different cliques. 

“Twilight” is a paranormal forbidden love story between a human and a vampire, while “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” was a TV show that featured a vampire hunter falling for not one, but two, vampires. Drama!

Move over, “90-Day Fiancé.” There’s a new reality TV show to get obsessed with: “Forbidden Love,” a show that explores what happens when a couple face the hurdle of religion. Whether it’s converting to the Muslim faith, leaving the Amish, or navigating their families’ ultimatums, it’s clear that religion is still a real-life challenge for many couples. Ah, the things you do for love!

![Forbidden-Love](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/6PjozMSEZmnoCjaw9WRaKa/8488c2ec3f5fdc13fe71ad51f70027c6/Forbidden-Love.jpg)

One of our ultimate favorite tainted love stories? The TV show “Scandal.” A show about a fixer who falls for the married President of the United States could not get any juicier. 

![Fitz-and-Olivia-from-Scandal](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/6E53g2yD9cMz8xu0fgxyDr/d8e9fdee492a039b3ce55d8b89954239/Fitz-and-Olivia-from-Scandal.jpg)

The power dynamics, affair element, societal perceptions—paired with the highest possible stakes and world-ending consequences—made Fitz and Liv’s relationship the ultimate forbidden love story. (No offense to Romeo and Juliet!)

## Trying out the taboo
Ready to say “I do” to forbidden love? These original spicy romance audiobooks from Dipsea are the perfect place to start.

![Off-the-Coast](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/1Xp4bzrDQRJ35t1wpt4Ert/ca16c725f1b2e85134454b42f9d1fd40/Off-the-Coast.jpg)

“[Off the Coast](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/off-the-coast-series/)” is a new series that follows Leah, an aspiring writer who moves back to her Maine hometown to work on her short story collection. While lounging on the beach one day, she’s surprised to run into June—the woman her ex-boyfriend Nate cheated on her with. 

Even more surprising is the lack of animosity between them. Instead, there’s a [sizzling chemistry](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/wlw-books/) neither of them can explain. The two hatch a plan to get revenge on Nate and—after crashing his fancy yacht party—stage a kiss that proves to be more troubling to them than Nate. The kiss unearthed a complicated desire for the last person they should want to be with: each other.

![Lecture-Me-by-Dipsea](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/6qCAxInGdtSFmzr9IdT88R/0e9e0e530d749f3feb254a6e2991db22/Lecture-Me-by-Dipsea.jpg)

Nothing says taboo (and steamy!) like a teacher/student relationship. In “[Lecture Me](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/lecture-me-series/),” Jane is a student who has just finished her final college class with Professor James. 

When she visits his office to wrap things up, their long-standing attraction bubbles to the surface and they give in to their desires. Are they willing to risk their academic reputations and everything they’ve worked for by pursuing their new forbidden love?

![Wine-Country](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/4bHrIJbdGZuDoxdZdaFW6W/fe746959a549a227efd197ce2826a9d8/Wine-Country.jpg)

“[Wine Country](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/wine-country-series/)” is about Florence, a vineyard owner who hires an expert to survey the land and critique the wine.

Tim, an attractive Englishman, is curt and ruthless with his assessment, putting them on a bad footing. But once they’ve both consumed too much wine, their disdain for each other goes out the window and is replaced by raw attraction. 

If she starts a relationship with an employee, things could end badly. But Florence may already be too drunk in love to care.

![Forbidden-Fruit-by-Dipsea](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/6HHLJVLmtmTE2uzbm1MOCV/419db33d27c53afcf2f150bf674ae987/Forbidden-Fruit-by-Dipsea.jpg)

For Greek mythology with a spicy twist, check out “[Forbidden Fruit](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/forbidden-fruit-series/).” When Persephone leaves the bacchanal in her honor and bumps into Hades, he persuades her to take a little unsanctioned vacation to the Underworld. 

There, Persephone gives into her most hedonistic desire, but when responsibility comes calling, she leaves and returns to Olympus—keeping her relationship with Hades that’s now bound by magic a secret from the other Gods. If they were to be caught, even immortality couldn’t keep them safe.

## Crossing the line for love
Forbidden love has stayed a timeless and beloved trope because it speaks to our universal desires—to love freely, to challenge boundaries, and to defy expectations. The tension between what the heart wants and what society deems acceptable creates high stakes and intense emotions that keep readers coming back to see if love will beat the odds.

Ready to explore even more popular romance tropes and what makes them hot? Dipsea has a finger on the pulse of culture, and our spicy audiobooks are the best romantic fiction brought to life. Don’t just take our word for it—sign up for a [30-day free trial](https://www.dipseastories.com/subscribe/?f=2&promo=signup30d) and see for yourself!

If you love when love breaks the rules, this in-depth exploration of the forbidden love trope in movies, shows, and books will be right up your alley.

Breaking down forbidden love: tropes, genres, and examples

Romeo-and-Juliet

What do Luke and Lorelai from “Gilmore Girls,” Nick and Jess from “New Girl,” and Jake and Amy from “Brooklyn 99” all have in common (well, apart from being fan-favorite couples)? Yup, you guessed it: all three of these iconic relationships are slow burn romances. From the moment they stepped on our screens we knew the chemistry was there, but it took entire seasons before they got together (and sometimes even longer to get together and stay together). 

So what is it that makes us love the slow burn trope in movies, TV shows, and books? Let’s get into it!

Fair warning: With these love stories, the joy is in the journey, not the destination. While there will (eventually) be a happily ever after, it’s going to take time (not to mention a few twists and turns) to get there. But when they finally—finally!!—confess their true feelings and the sparks fly…watch out! After all that smoldering, when a slow burn romance finally catches fire, it burns hot and it burns bright. So hold on tight and get ready for an emotional rollercoaster (it’s worth it, I promise!). 

## What is a slow burn romance?
What qualifies as a slow burn is hotly debated (I’ll get into that later) but the basic premise is that the connection between the main characters builds slowly over time. There is no love at first sight or instant romance that’s sweet in books but has us rolling our eyes in real life. 

In standalone romance books or movies, this trope manifests as the characters having that “aha!” moment toward the end of the storyline. But in [book series](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/spicy-book-series/) or TV shows, the slow burn romance can smolder for ages (I mean, Luke and Lorelai didn’t even kiss until the very end of season 4!) making it that much more satisfying when the characters *finally* decide to give things a shot.

## What qualifies as a slow burn romance?
I’m so glad you asked! The answer to this is complicated and based on personal preference. The general rule of thumb for a slow burn romance is that the characters aren’t going to get together until at least 75% of the way through the plotline. That means that three-quarters of the story is dedicated to the build up alone. 

With so much time dedicated to the pining, angst, and anticipation, fans are on the edge of their seats waiting for the pieces to fall into place. You may even find yourself hollering at your Kindle or shouting at your TV, urging these characters to just *figure it out already!* As the audience, we know the characters are meant to be—we just need them to hurry up and figure it out too.  

Does that seem emotionally exhausting and perhaps a touch unnecessary? Maybe. But once you’ve experienced the rush of your favorite characters finally getting together for the first time after all that build up, you’ll understand the hype!

For some, a slow burn relationship isn’t a slow burn if it’s not dragged out. Those fans would argue that it should take multiple books in a series (or seasons of a TV show) for the characters to finally find their way together. Think Ron and Hermione getting together in the final Harry Potter books/movies, or Jim and Pam finally acknowledging their feelings after three seasons of “The Office.” You can see the writing on the wall from day one but you’re going to have to wait years for the payoff. 

In my opinion, it doesn’t matter if the couple gets together at the end or somewhere in the middle. If their love story is filled with “will they or won’t they” moments that make you feel like you’re teetering on the tip of a knife, that’s a slow burn!

## Why we love a slow burn romance
What is it that makes a slow burn romance so insanely good?

### The rollercoaster of emotion
![Haley-and-Andy-from-Modern-Family](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/1ZKFVuK8Lx9HVxp5R5pyRk/d8d9efabb68789423c4995fdf9e72944/Haley-and-Andy-from-Modern-Family.jpg)

One of the key elements of a good slow burn is the absolute rollercoaster of emotion these love stories take us on (just because it takes a while to get to the payoff doesn’t mean it’s boring!). Romance novel plotlines can be a touch predictable (we all know it’s going to end in a happy ending, that’s why we consume them!) but with a good slow burn romance, the real reward isn’t in the end destination but the long, winding road to get there. 

And while *most* slow burns end in a happily ever after, there’s the occasional love story that just doesn’t work out, like Haley and Andy from “Modern Family.” Even though they didn’t get together in the end, their will-they-won’t-they relationship had people tuning in week after week. Fans are still debating if they should have been endgame years after the show ended! 

### The characters and character development
![Ben-and-Leslie-from-Parks-and-Recreation](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/6GPpBPGez0ddbqCTWqpVr6/38be7cac5fa8c469b101d87185434bde/Ben-and-Leslie-from-Parks-and-Recreation.jpg)

With a slow burner, we get to *really* know the characters. As readers/viewers, we get so invested in the characters because we take the journey with them. 

We get to struggle alongside them in real time while they sort out their feelings. When they question and wonder if a romantic relationship would ever work (or ever even happen), we question and wonder along with them. When they pine, we pine. 

And with so much time spent with them, often over the course of months or years, we get a front row seat to how these characters develop and grow. I mean, when we first met Ben on “Parks and Recreation,” he was the evil guy trying to suck all the fun and joy out of Pawnee. By the end of the series, he was half of one of TV’s most beloved couples and a pillar of the show. That’s the beauty of the slow burn—it’s impossible not to fall in love with them and root for their happy endings. 

### The chemistry
![Janine-and-Gregory-from-Abbott-Elementary](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/1yV95cr2T5NGjHYGPoePQs/27779536ab8c7a3a710cb84dc9f1de56/Janine-and-Gregory-from-Abbott-Elementary.jpg)

Slow burns are not for the faint of heart: They are an investment of time, love, and patience. Fans of slow burn couples are tortured and kept on edge for ages. 

So why don’t they give up and find a less [angsty romance](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/angsty-romance-books/)? 

Because the chemistry between the love interests is just too good to look away from. Just think—If we had given up when the going got tough, we would have missed Janine and Gregory getting together after three whole seasons of “Abbott Elementary!”

From the moment they meet, the chemistry is electric and it’s impossible to turn away. Any interaction could be *it*, the moment when they finally give in to what they’ve been fighting for so long. There’s no way fans are going to turn away from that anticipation!

Which brings us to…

### The Big Moment
![When-Harry-Met-Sally](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/1KdoxzxLFec879LUUSi4Pt/66807991f96ade1d148722a5a3467520/When-Harry-Met-Sally.jpg)

This is what we’ve all been waiting for: After months or years of tension and close calls, the main characters finally, *finally* get together. Think Harry running through the streets on New Year's Eve to get to Sally in “When Harry Met Sally” or when Mr. Darcy finally confesses his love to Elizabeth in “[Pride and Prejudice](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1885.Pride_and_Prejudice).”

Sometimes this manifests as a big, elaborate speech or gesture, where one of the characters confesses to all those pent-up feelings (a personal favorite of mine!). Other times the characters just can’t take the tension anymore and snap.

No matter how it plays out, the big moment is raw, real, messy, sweet and everything we fans deserve after having silently (or not so silently…I’ve been known to yell at my Kindle at times) cheering them on from afar. Their giddiness and relief at finally getting together bleeds through the pages and you can *feel* it. There’s nothing better!

The slow burn trope also pairs incredibly well with [other tropes](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/romance-tropes/), especially friends-to-lovers and [second chance romance](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/second-chance-romance/). This trope also works really well paired with a dual timeline format, where parts of the story are told in the present day and parts flashback to the past. This helps fans get an even deeper understanding of the characters’ relationship and is a great way to tack on a little more time for yearning and pining in a creative way.

## What to read
So now that you're invested in the slow burn, what should you read? Here are some faves to get you started! 

- “[The Wall of Winnipeg and Me](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/29367958-the-wall-of-winnipeg-and-me)” by Mariana Zapata (really any book by her!)
- “[The Spanish Love Deception](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/54189398-the-spanish-love-deception)” by Elena Armas
- “[The Hating Game](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/27213238-the-hating-game)” by Sally Thorne
- “[Pinedale Falls](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/pinedale-falls-series/)” by Dipsea
- “[Fourth Wing](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61431922-fourth-wing)” by Rebecca Yarros

If you’ve got more time on your hands, check out [this jam-packed list](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/slow-burn-romance/) of some of our fave slow burn stories.

__Looking for more [slow burn romances](https://www.dipseastories.com/tags/slow-burn-tag/) or dying to find another trope you love? Check out Dispea, the app for original spicy audiobooks!__

What do Luke and Lorelai from “Gilmore Girls,” Nick and Jess from “New Girl,” and Jake and Amy from “Brooklyn 99” all have in common (well, apart from being fan-favorite couples)? Yup, you guessed it: all three of these iconic relationships are slow burn romances. From the moment they stepped on our screens we knew the chemistry was there, but it took entire seasons before they got together (and sometimes even longer to get together and stay together). 

So what is it that makes us love the slow burn trope in movies, TV shows, and books? Let’s get into it!

Fair warning: With these love stories, the joy is in the journey, not the destination. While there will (eventually) be a happily ever after, it’s going to take time (not to mention a few twists and turns) to get there. But when they finally—finally!!—confess their true feelings and the sparks fly…watch out! After all that smoldering, when a slow burn romance finally catches fire, it burns hot and it burns bright. So hold on tight and get ready for an emotional rollercoaster (it’s worth it, I promise!). 

## What is a slow burn romance?
What qualifies as a slow burn is hotly debated (I’ll get into that later) but the basic premise is that the connection between the main characters builds slowly over time. There is no love at first sight or instant romance that’s sweet in books but has us rolling our eyes in real life. 

In standalone romance books or movies, this trope manifests as the characters having that “aha!” moment toward the end of the storyline. But in [book series](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/spicy-book-series/) or TV shows, the slow burn romance can smolder for ages (I mean, Luke and Lorelai didn’t even kiss until the very end of season 4!) making it that much more satisfying when the characters *finally* decide to give things a shot.

## What qualifies as a slow burn romance?
I’m so glad you asked! The answer to this is complicated and based on personal preference. The general rule of thumb for a slow burn romance is that the characters aren’t going to get together until at least 75% of the way through the plotline. That means that three-quarters of the story is dedicated to the build up alone. 

With so much time dedicated to the pining, angst, and anticipation, fans are on the edge of their seats waiting for the pieces to fall into place. You may even find yourself hollering at your Kindle or shouting at your TV, urging these characters to just *figure it out already!* As the audience, we know the characters are meant to be—we just need them to hurry up and figure it out too.  

Does that seem emotionally exhausting and perhaps a touch unnecessary? Maybe. But once you’ve experienced the rush of your favorite characters finally getting together for the first time after all that build up, you’ll understand the hype!

For some, a slow burn relationship isn’t a slow burn if it’s not dragged out. Those fans would argue that it should take multiple books in a series (or seasons of a TV show) for the characters to finally find their way together. Think Ron and Hermione getting together in the final Harry Potter books/movies, or Jim and Pam finally acknowledging their feelings after three seasons of “The Office.” You can see the writing on the wall from day one but you’re going to have to wait years for the payoff. 

In my opinion, it doesn’t matter if the couple gets together at the end or somewhere in the middle. If their love story is filled with “will they or won’t they” moments that make you feel like you’re teetering on the tip of a knife, that’s a slow burn!

## Why we love a slow burn romance
What is it that makes a slow burn romance so insanely good?

### The rollercoaster of emotion
![Haley-and-Andy-from-Modern-Family](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/1ZKFVuK8Lx9HVxp5R5pyRk/d8d9efabb68789423c4995fdf9e72944/Haley-and-Andy-from-Modern-Family.jpg)

One of the key elements of a good slow burn is the absolute rollercoaster of emotion these love stories take us on (just because it takes a while to get to the payoff doesn’t mean it’s boring!). Romance novel plotlines can be a touch predictable (we all know it’s going to end in a happy ending, that’s why we consume them!) but with a good slow burn romance, the real reward isn’t in the end destination but the long, winding road to get there. 

And while *most* slow burns end in a happily ever after, there’s the occasional love story that just doesn’t work out, like Haley and Andy from “Modern Family.” Even though they didn’t get together in the end, their will-they-won’t-they relationship had people tuning in week after week. Fans are still debating if they should have been endgame years after the show ended! 

### The characters and character development
![Ben-and-Leslie-from-Parks-and-Recreation](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/6GPpBPGez0ddbqCTWqpVr6/38be7cac5fa8c469b101d87185434bde/Ben-and-Leslie-from-Parks-and-Recreation.jpg)

With a slow burner, we get to *really* know the characters. As readers/viewers, we get so invested in the characters because we take the journey with them. 

We get to struggle alongside them in real time while they sort out their feelings. When they question and wonder if a romantic relationship would ever work (or ever even happen), we question and wonder along with them. When they pine, we pine. 

And with so much time spent with them, often over the course of months or years, we get a front row seat to how these characters develop and grow. I mean, when we first met Ben on “Parks and Recreation,” he was the evil guy trying to suck all the fun and joy out of Pawnee. By the end of the series, he was half of one of TV’s most beloved couples and a pillar of the show. That’s the beauty of the slow burn—it’s impossible not to fall in love with them and root for their happy endings. 

### The chemistry
![Janine-and-Gregory-from-Abbott-Elementary](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/1yV95cr2T5NGjHYGPoePQs/27779536ab8c7a3a710cb84dc9f1de56/Janine-and-Gregory-from-Abbott-Elementary.jpg)

Slow burns are not for the faint of heart: They are an investment of time, love, and patience. Fans of slow burn couples are tortured and kept on edge for ages. 

So why don’t they give up and find a less [angsty romance](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/angsty-romance-books/)? 

Because the chemistry between the love interests is just too good to look away from. Just think—If we had given up when the going got tough, we would have missed Janine and Gregory getting together after three whole seasons of “Abbott Elementary!”

From the moment they meet, the chemistry is electric and it’s impossible to turn away. Any interaction could be *it*, the moment when they finally give in to what they’ve been fighting for so long. There’s no way fans are going to turn away from that anticipation!

Which brings us to…

### The Big Moment
![When-Harry-Met-Sally](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/1KdoxzxLFec879LUUSi4Pt/66807991f96ade1d148722a5a3467520/When-Harry-Met-Sally.jpg)

This is what we’ve all been waiting for: After months or years of tension and close calls, the main characters finally, *finally* get together. Think Harry running through the streets on New Year's Eve to get to Sally in “When Harry Met Sally” or when Mr. Darcy finally confesses his love to Elizabeth in “[Pride and Prejudice](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1885.Pride_and_Prejudice).”

Sometimes this manifests as a big, elaborate speech or gesture, where one of the characters confesses to all those pent-up feelings (a personal favorite of mine!). Other times the characters just can’t take the tension anymore and snap.

No matter how it plays out, the big moment is raw, real, messy, sweet and everything we fans deserve after having silently (or not so silently…I’ve been known to yell at my Kindle at times) cheering them on from afar. Their giddiness and relief at finally getting together bleeds through the pages and you can *feel* it. There’s nothing better!

The slow burn trope also pairs incredibly well with [other tropes](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/romance-tropes/), especially friends-to-lovers and [second chance romance](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/second-chance-romance/). This trope also works really well paired with a dual timeline format, where parts of the story are told in the present day and parts flashback to the past. This helps fans get an even deeper understanding of the characters’ relationship and is a great way to tack on a little more time for yearning and pining in a creative way.

## What to read
So now that you're invested in the slow burn, what should you read? Here are some faves to get you started! 

- “[The Wall of Winnipeg and Me](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/29367958-the-wall-of-winnipeg-and-me)” by Mariana Zapata (really any book by her!)
- “[The Spanish Love Deception](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/54189398-the-spanish-love-deception)” by Elena Armas
- “[The Hating Game](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/27213238-the-hating-game)” by Sally Thorne
- “[Pinedale Falls](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/pinedale-falls-series/)” by Dipsea
- “[Fourth Wing](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61431922-fourth-wing)” by Rebecca Yarros

If you’ve got more time on your hands, check out [this jam-packed list](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/slow-burn-romance/) of some of our fave slow burn stories.

__Looking for more [slow burn romances](https://www.dipseastories.com/tags/slow-burn-tag/) or dying to find another trope you love? Check out Dispea, the app for original spicy audiobooks!__

A slow-moving, pining romance that explodes into a meaningful relationship is a fan favorite. Learn what a slow burn is and why you’re likely so into it.

What is a slow burn? Shows, movies & books that simmer slowly

close-up-shot-of-a-bonfire

Addicted to “A Court of Thorns and Roses”? Devoured “Fourth Wing” in record time? We don’t blame you. There’s something deliciously satisfying about a good romantasy. I’ll readily admit my Kindle is packed with more of these books than I can count.

## Wait a second...what’s “romantasy”?

“Romantasy” combines the words “romance” and “fantasy,” and it’s a bit of a buzzword for readers. Romantic fantasy as a genre is nothing new, but it’s [exploded over the last few years](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/what-is-romantasy/). 

Book reviews [all over TikTok](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/booktok-romance-books/), Goodreads, and more dig into the “fantastical worldbuilding meets love story” phenomenon, but the simple truth of it is this: Both romance novels and fantasy novels are wildly popular and beloved. 

Combining the two genres is a no-brainer. Who wouldn’t want to [explore the sensual and steamy](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/super-spicy-books/) alongside the heart-racing and magical? Fantasy is rife with layered subplots and enchanting settings while romance is known for focusing on the emotional depth of the characters.

[Fantasy romance books](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/romantasy-books/) also span every subgenre from paranormal romance to romantic science fiction, and there are plenty of young adult fantasy series that don’t get hot and heavy but have plenty of delectable tension. 

Whether you prefer darkly sexy vampires in familiar places or you’re looking to discover a new world full of fae and witchcraft, your next romantasy must-read awaits.

Here are 8 popular fantasy romance books that will get you started (or feed your addiction)!

## 1. [“Bride”](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/181344829-bride) by Ali Hazelwood

![Bride-by-Ali-Hazelwood](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/7pwvgo9dfcCaFlTUbwZYMY/6585e73e2d845c59b63eeee2b82dc5f6/Bride-by-Ali-Hazelwood.jpg)

Even if the word “Omegaverse” means nothing to you, this is still a worthy read. (And if it does mean something to you, we should probably be friends. Gosh, I miss early 2000s Tumblr.)

Misery Lark is the daughter of the most powerful councilman in the Southwest, yet she somehow always finds herself on the outskirts of her own world. Misery is expected to uphold an ancient alliance between the Vampyres and their long-time enemies, the Werewolves. So, she agrees to marry their Alpha, Lowe Moreland. 

Lowe, of course, doesn't trust Misery for a second, constantly watching her every move. He’s not exactly wrong to be suspicious. Misery has her own agenda, one that has nothing to do with alliances or peacekeeping. She’s after something deeply personal, something she’ll stop at nothing to reclaim, even if it means living among the Weres—and under Lowe’s penetrating gaze.

Danger? Power plays? Simmering attraction within an arranged marriage between two supernatural creatures who *definitely* shouldn’t like each other as much as they do? [The tropes](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/romance-tropes/) write themselves, don’t they? We’re not complaining...

## 2. [“When the Moon Hatched”](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/202507554-when-the-moon-hatched) by Sarah A. Parker

![When-the-Moon-Hatched-by-Sarah-A.-Parker](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/3SlmGBqUDMAsYFjY3qN4QP/7df67a15d35a17357e64769716b74c01/When-the-Moon-Hatched-by-Sarah-A.-Parker.jpg)

Oh, how I adore a good dragon story.

Imagine a world where ancient dragons once ruled the skies, only to turn into moons when their time ends, floating just beyond reach—until they start falling.

Raeve is a fierce warrior, part of the rebellion group Fíur du Ath, tasked with killing, following orders, and never getting caught. 

When a bounty hunter is hired to take down someone from her crew, she’s suddenly caught in the clutches of the Guild of Nobles, a powerful group with plans to use her as nothing more than a political pawn. Kaan is on a relentless search for a moonshard, something that might finally ease the pain of his long-held grief. 

This quest brings him to a notorious prison, where a furious, bloodstained woman with a past as dark as his own threatens to shake his world.

Give me a second. I think I need a minute to swoon.

## 3. [“A Deal with the Elf King”](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/55285911-a-deal-with-the-elf-king) by Elise Kova

![A-Deal-with-the-Elf-King-by-Elise-Kova](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/6O0eLvEctB8t8QP4KtQdrh/669559e44421c4303f64098aff0894e8/A-Deal-with-the-Elf-King-by-Elise-Kova.jpg)

The Married to Magic series is full of just about every fantasy creature you can think of, but Kova’s decision to start with elves is one I truly appreciate.

War and wives are the only reasons elves have to enter the human world, and both lead to death. For thousands of years, humans have lived under the shadow of an ancient treaty, one where the elves take a girl to become their Human Queen. As far as humans know, it's a death sentence. 

For 19-year-old Luella, it’s a fate she’s been relieved to avoid—until the Elf King arrives and selects her.

Luella has spent her life studying herbs and healing, content in her role as the village’s only healer, but she might end up being the only one who can save the mysterious, dying world of Midscape, her new home. Meanwhile, an undeniable, unexpected passion sparks between her and her new husband.

Married to Magic is a series of standalone fantasy romance books with little to no crossover, which means you don’t have to read them in order. If you prefer fae or even sirens, Elise Kova’s got ‘em. Her take on werewolves just came out earlier this year, too. * Adds to cart. *

## 4. [“Wings of Winter”](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/wings-of-winter-series/) on Dipsea

![Wings-of-Winter-by-Dipsea-small](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/2LxXAy5azxnAxxZjuFVdRp/4b9e83e87037dca84edce1fc60a0137a/Wings-of-Winter-by-Dipsea.jpg)

This is easily one of my favorite audiobooks out there—it isn’t just magical, it’s *immersive.* There’s truly nothing in the world like having Rowan whisper his affections into your ear, and the entire story is framed as him recounting *your* adventures together.

In a realm frozen in endless winter, the King of Aurora holds a deadly competition each year known as the Gleaning. Immortals and mortals alike fight for a chance to restore the seasons to their province. Rowan, the son of the fae king, is determined to win this year and end the eternal cold, but his attention is immediately captured by *you*, a human. 

Humans don't typically survive the Gleaning, and your presence raises questions he can’t ignore even as he finds himself captivated.

Desperate to change the future of a frozen kingdom, the two of you encounter all kinds of danger and turmoil as you become reluctant allies, then something more.

## 5. [“House of Earth and Blood”](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/44778083-house-of-earth-and-blood) by Sarah J. Maas

![House-of-Earth-and-Blood-by-Sarah-J.-Maas](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/6acXfUGSTRDm4UXZ2i8XlM/65af9dffcaf583dccf1b324eb94bc36e/House-of-Earth-and-Blood-by-Sarah-J.-Maas.jpg)

The first book of the Crescent City series, “House of Earth and Blood” is the sort of bestseller that clings to the depths of your soul.

After her best friends are murdered, Bryce Quinlan goes on a mission for revenge. Hunt Athalar, a fallen angel (yes, really) who is forced to work as an assassin, is offered a deal: Help Bryce catch the killer in order to finally earn his freedom. Digging into the city’s dark secrets, the two can’t help but grow closer.

If you’re looking to dive headfirst into an epic series full of intrigue and some serious chemistry, don’t pass on this one. 

While you don’t have to read through the entire SJM bibliography in order to enjoy these, I do recommend [starting with her “A Court of Thorns and Roses” series](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/books-like-a-court-of-thorns-and-roses/). Jumping right into the more complex world building of Crescent City tends to have readers posting on Reddit asking for help understanding the world. 

Then check out the “Throne of Glass” books, if only to fall madly in love with...a few of the characters, come to think of it. 

## 6. [“Divine Rivals”](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60784546-divine-rivals) by Rebecca Ross

![Divine-Rivals](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/2Udbj0Amc2ubCaMaAcdsYW/750a68591bac3197a2b5fadd9d7ca2bf/Divine-Rivals.jpg)

In a world torn apart by war among gods, 18-year-old Iris Winnow just wants to keep her family together.

Her mom is battling addiction, her brother is missing at the front lines, and her best shot at stability is winning a promotion at the Oath Gazette. To cope, she uses her old typewriter to write letters to her brother and slips them under her wardrobe…only for them to mysteriously end up with Roman Kitt, her cold, handsome rival at the paper. 

As they exchange anonymous letters, their bond grows, leading Iris to the battlefield, where love and fate collide.

The first book in a duology devoted to a yearning, [slow burn romance](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/slow-burn-romance/), “Divine Rivals” reaffirmed my belief that some of the best storytelling is rooted in two of my favorite things: mythology and the opposites attract trope.

## 7. [“Avalon Academy”](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/avalon-academy-series/) on Dipsea

![Avalon-Academy-by-Dipsea](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/1JuKNh8yPIzH3YRls89Jxu/6d49eadddaec0d6c71c586ee14375e57/Avalon-Academy-by-Dipsea.jpg)

If a little steamy fantasy academia is what you’re after (and I don’t blame you a bit), this audiobook is absolutely worth a listen. It’s giving grown-up “Harry Potter” meets “[Fourth Wing](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/books-like-fourth-wing/)”!

Evie Blackwell is starting fresh at Avalon Academy with dreams of becoming a Healer, but when her Seeing ability suddenly appears in the middle of sorting, she’s assigned to the infamous Blackthorn Tower instead.

Between a lifelong dream she might have to give up completely, her boyfriend Elliot’s expectations, and the undeniable spark she feels toward her rebellious classmate Rory, Evie can only handle so much. Dark magic, hidden secrets, and heaps of sizzling tension had me clicking “add to queue” so fast.

## 8. [“Half-Blood”](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/202547916-half-blood) by Jennifer L. Armentrout

![Half-Blood-by-Jennifer-L.-Armentrout](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/5ms68Wqm0qlfc0x1Imhjl2/ec1b529571eed46ba41f0af9a0f91a25/Half-Blood-by-Jennifer-L.-Armentrout.jpg)

If you thought “From Blood and Ash” was the only fantasy romance book JLA had up her sleeve, I’ve got a spoiler for you: It only scratches the surface.

Gods and mortals once came together to create those known as Hematoi. If both of your parents happen to be Hematoi, you’ve got serious powers.

If you’re a half-blood, though, your options are limited: either train to become a Sentinel and fight daimons or spend your life as a servant to the purse. 

Alexandria would definitely rather be out fighting, but rule #1 is that relationships between pures and halfs are forbidden. So it kind of sucks that Alex has a huge crush on pure-blood Aiden.

__Looking for more romantasy stories? Dipsea’s [collection of audiobooks](https://www.dipseastories.com/subscribe/?promo=try30d&f=2) has even more to get utterly lost in.__

Addicted to “A Court of Thorns and Roses”? Devoured “Fourth Wing” in record time? We don’t blame you. There’s something deliciously satisfying about a good romantasy. I’ll readily admit my Kindle is packed with more of these books than I can count.

## Wait a second...what’s “romantasy”?

“Romantasy” combines the words “romance” and “fantasy,” and it’s a bit of a buzzword for readers. Romantic fantasy as a genre is nothing new, but it’s [exploded over the last few years](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/what-is-romantasy/). 

Book reviews [all over TikTok](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/booktok-romance-books/), Goodreads, and more dig into the “fantastical worldbuilding meets love story” phenomenon, but the simple truth of it is this: Both romance novels and fantasy novels are wildly popular and beloved. 

Combining the two genres is a no-brainer. Who wouldn’t want to [explore the sensual and steamy](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/super-spicy-books/) alongside the heart-racing and magical? Fantasy is rife with layered subplots and enchanting settings while romance is known for focusing on the emotional depth of the characters.

[Fantasy romance books](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/romantasy-books/) also span every subgenre from paranormal romance to romantic science fiction, and there are plenty of young adult fantasy series that don’t get hot and heavy but have plenty of delectable tension. 

Whether you prefer darkly sexy vampires in familiar places or you’re looking to discover a new world full of fae and witchcraft, your next romantasy must-read awaits.

Here are 8 popular fantasy romance books that will get you started (or feed your addiction)!

## 1. [“Bride”](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/181344829-bride) by Ali Hazelwood

![Bride-by-Ali-Hazelwood](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/7pwvgo9dfcCaFlTUbwZYMY/6585e73e2d845c59b63eeee2b82dc5f6/Bride-by-Ali-Hazelwood.jpg)

Even if the word “Omegaverse” means nothing to you, this is still a worthy read. (And if it does mean something to you, we should probably be friends. Gosh, I miss early 2000s Tumblr.)

Misery Lark is the daughter of the most powerful councilman in the Southwest, yet she somehow always finds herself on the outskirts of her own world. Misery is expected to uphold an ancient alliance between the Vampyres and their long-time enemies, the Werewolves. So, she agrees to marry their Alpha, Lowe Moreland. 

Lowe, of course, doesn't trust Misery for a second, constantly watching her every move. He’s not exactly wrong to be suspicious. Misery has her own agenda, one that has nothing to do with alliances or peacekeeping. She’s after something deeply personal, something she’ll stop at nothing to reclaim, even if it means living among the Weres—and under Lowe’s penetrating gaze.

Danger? Power plays? Simmering attraction within an arranged marriage between two supernatural creatures who *definitely* shouldn’t like each other as much as they do? [The tropes](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/romance-tropes/) write themselves, don’t they? We’re not complaining...

## 2. [“When the Moon Hatched”](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/202507554-when-the-moon-hatched) by Sarah A. Parker

![When-the-Moon-Hatched-by-Sarah-A.-Parker](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/3SlmGBqUDMAsYFjY3qN4QP/7df67a15d35a17357e64769716b74c01/When-the-Moon-Hatched-by-Sarah-A.-Parker.jpg)

Oh, how I adore a good dragon story.

Imagine a world where ancient dragons once ruled the skies, only to turn into moons when their time ends, floating just beyond reach—until they start falling.

Raeve is a fierce warrior, part of the rebellion group Fíur du Ath, tasked with killing, following orders, and never getting caught. 

When a bounty hunter is hired to take down someone from her crew, she’s suddenly caught in the clutches of the Guild of Nobles, a powerful group with plans to use her as nothing more than a political pawn. Kaan is on a relentless search for a moonshard, something that might finally ease the pain of his long-held grief. 

This quest brings him to a notorious prison, where a furious, bloodstained woman with a past as dark as his own threatens to shake his world.

Give me a second. I think I need a minute to swoon.

## 3. [“A Deal with the Elf King”](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/55285911-a-deal-with-the-elf-king) by Elise Kova

![A-Deal-with-the-Elf-King-by-Elise-Kova](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/6O0eLvEctB8t8QP4KtQdrh/669559e44421c4303f64098aff0894e8/A-Deal-with-the-Elf-King-by-Elise-Kova.jpg)

The Married to Magic series is full of just about every fantasy creature you can think of, but Kova’s decision to start with elves is one I truly appreciate.

War and wives are the only reasons elves have to enter the human world, and both lead to death. For thousands of years, humans have lived under the shadow of an ancient treaty, one where the elves take a girl to become their Human Queen. As far as humans know, it's a death sentence. 

For 19-year-old Luella, it’s a fate she’s been relieved to avoid—until the Elf King arrives and selects her.

Luella has spent her life studying herbs and healing, content in her role as the village’s only healer, but she might end up being the only one who can save the mysterious, dying world of Midscape, her new home. Meanwhile, an undeniable, unexpected passion sparks between her and her new husband.

Married to Magic is a series of standalone fantasy romance books with little to no crossover, which means you don’t have to read them in order. If you prefer fae or even sirens, Elise Kova’s got ‘em. Her take on werewolves just came out earlier this year, too. * Adds to cart. *

## 4. [“Wings of Winter”](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/wings-of-winter-series/) on Dipsea

![Wings-of-Winter-by-Dipsea-small](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/2LxXAy5azxnAxxZjuFVdRp/4b9e83e87037dca84edce1fc60a0137a/Wings-of-Winter-by-Dipsea.jpg)

This is easily one of my favorite audiobooks out there—it isn’t just magical, it’s *immersive.* There’s truly nothing in the world like having Rowan whisper his affections into your ear, and the entire story is framed as him recounting *your* adventures together.

In a realm frozen in endless winter, the King of Aurora holds a deadly competition each year known as the Gleaning. Immortals and mortals alike fight for a chance to restore the seasons to their province. Rowan, the son of the fae king, is determined to win this year and end the eternal cold, but his attention is immediately captured by *you*, a human. 

Humans don't typically survive the Gleaning, and your presence raises questions he can’t ignore even as he finds himself captivated.

Desperate to change the future of a frozen kingdom, the two of you encounter all kinds of danger and turmoil as you become reluctant allies, then something more.

## 5. [“House of Earth and Blood”](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/44778083-house-of-earth-and-blood) by Sarah J. Maas

![House-of-Earth-and-Blood-by-Sarah-J.-Maas](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/6acXfUGSTRDm4UXZ2i8XlM/65af9dffcaf583dccf1b324eb94bc36e/House-of-Earth-and-Blood-by-Sarah-J.-Maas.jpg)

The first book of the Crescent City series, “House of Earth and Blood” is the sort of bestseller that clings to the depths of your soul.

After her best friends are murdered, Bryce Quinlan goes on a mission for revenge. Hunt Athalar, a fallen angel (yes, really) who is forced to work as an assassin, is offered a deal: Help Bryce catch the killer in order to finally earn his freedom. Digging into the city’s dark secrets, the two can’t help but grow closer.

If you’re looking to dive headfirst into an epic series full of intrigue and some serious chemistry, don’t pass on this one. 

While you don’t have to read through the entire SJM bibliography in order to enjoy these, I do recommend [starting with her “A Court of Thorns and Roses” series](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/books-like-a-court-of-thorns-and-roses/). Jumping right into the more complex world building of Crescent City tends to have readers posting on Reddit asking for help understanding the world. 

Then check out the “Throne of Glass” books, if only to fall madly in love with...a few of the characters, come to think of it. 

## 6. [“Divine Rivals”](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60784546-divine-rivals) by Rebecca Ross

![Divine-Rivals](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/2Udbj0Amc2ubCaMaAcdsYW/750a68591bac3197a2b5fadd9d7ca2bf/Divine-Rivals.jpg)

In a world torn apart by war among gods, 18-year-old Iris Winnow just wants to keep her family together.

Her mom is battling addiction, her brother is missing at the front lines, and her best shot at stability is winning a promotion at the Oath Gazette. To cope, she uses her old typewriter to write letters to her brother and slips them under her wardrobe…only for them to mysteriously end up with Roman Kitt, her cold, handsome rival at the paper. 

As they exchange anonymous letters, their bond grows, leading Iris to the battlefield, where love and fate collide.

The first book in a duology devoted to a yearning, [slow burn romance](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/slow-burn-romance/), “Divine Rivals” reaffirmed my belief that some of the best storytelling is rooted in two of my favorite things: mythology and the opposites attract trope.

## 7. [“Avalon Academy”](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/avalon-academy-series/) on Dipsea

![Avalon-Academy-by-Dipsea](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/1JuKNh8yPIzH3YRls89Jxu/6d49eadddaec0d6c71c586ee14375e57/Avalon-Academy-by-Dipsea.jpg)

If a little steamy fantasy academia is what you’re after (and I don’t blame you a bit), this audiobook is absolutely worth a listen. It’s giving grown-up “Harry Potter” meets “[Fourth Wing](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/books-like-fourth-wing/)”!

Evie Blackwell is starting fresh at Avalon Academy with dreams of becoming a Healer, but when her Seeing ability suddenly appears in the middle of sorting, she’s assigned to the infamous Blackthorn Tower instead.

Between a lifelong dream she might have to give up completely, her boyfriend Elliot’s expectations, and the undeniable spark she feels toward her rebellious classmate Rory, Evie can only handle so much. Dark magic, hidden secrets, and heaps of sizzling tension had me clicking “add to queue” so fast.

## 8. [“Half-Blood”](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/202547916-half-blood) by Jennifer L. Armentrout

![Half-Blood-by-Jennifer-L.-Armentrout](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/5ms68Wqm0qlfc0x1Imhjl2/ec1b529571eed46ba41f0af9a0f91a25/Half-Blood-by-Jennifer-L.-Armentrout.jpg)

If you thought “From Blood and Ash” was the only fantasy romance book JLA had up her sleeve, I’ve got a spoiler for you: It only scratches the surface.

Gods and mortals once came together to create those known as Hematoi. If both of your parents happen to be Hematoi, you’ve got serious powers.

If you’re a half-blood, though, your options are limited: either train to become a Sentinel and fight daimons or spend your life as a servant to the purse. 

Alexandria would definitely rather be out fighting, but rule #1 is that relationships between pures and halfs are forbidden. So it kind of sucks that Alex has a huge crush on pure-blood Aiden.

__Looking for more romantasy stories? Dipsea’s [collection of audiobooks](https://www.dipseastories.com/subscribe/?promo=try30d&f=2) has even more to get utterly lost in.__

These fantasy romance book recommendations span from popular BookTok books to steamy audiobooks to hidden gems that’ll sweep you off your feet.

The 8 best fantasy romance books for every craving

couple-hugging-each-other

Rules are meant to be broken, and these forbidden romance love stories do just that. Whether it’s an affair, a workplace romance, or falling for your sworn enemy, sometimes the heart just wants what it wants. We don’t judge, we just read. And these off-limits romance books are un-put-downable!

## 1. “[Priest](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25507389-priest)” by Sierra Simone

![Priest-by-Sierra-Simone](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/7cPEX02IYxAwWPNJ6hxpT7/82bb4e0b204afe4ddd59d250aa0aac87/Priest-by-Sierra-Simone.jpg)

Nothing can be more forbidden—[or hot](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/super-spicy-books/)—than a priest breaking his vows. But when Father Tyler Bell meets Poppy Danforth, that’s exactly what happens.

When Poppy stumbles into a confessional booth, she asks forgiveness for her sins: leaving behind a controlling ex-boyfriend and her big city job as a lawyer, disobeying her parents and moving to Kansas City to enroll in a dance academy—and becoming a stripper at a fancy gentleman’s club to pay the bills.

Her confession—and sultry voice—stirs something within Father Bell. Something sinful. Poppy’s story reminds him that just three years ago, he was a regular guy...with regular desires. It wasn’t until a shocking tragedy rocked his family did he decide to pick up robes and join the priesthood. But now, for the first time, he’s questioning that choice. What happens when your love of God rivals your growing love of a beautiful woman?

This forbidden romance book is so steamy (like, breaking vows of celibacy on a church altar steamy), it’d be a sin not to give it a chance.

## 2. “[Forbidden](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25760151-forbidden)” by Beverly Jenkins

![Forbidden-by-Beverly-Jenkins](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/deAwXl416qaveUpmXPlUh/c0776138d86ce06d74492b8673ca40c7/Forbidden-by-Beverly-Jenkins.jpg)

Eddy Carmichael has big dreams and she’s not going to let the difficult realities of being Black in a post-Civil War America stop her. As she journeys out west to California to open her own restaurant, she’s swindled and attacked by a con man who leaves her for dead in a Nevada desert.

When Rhine Fontaine and his business partner come across Eddy clinging to life, they bring her back to their saloon and let her recover in the rooms upstairs. Now instead of opening up her own establishment, Eddy is paying off her debt to a handsome white man by way of cooking meals for his saloon patrons.

Rhine is rich, successful, and wildly attracted to the outspoken and defiant Eddy—despite being engaged to a prominent white woman in town. He’s also harboring a long-kept secret: that he’s actually an escaped slave who’s just been passing a white. He always thought he’d take his secret to his grave, but if revealing the truth would mean a future with Eddy...it just might be worth it.

The first book in the Old West series, this [Black romance novel](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/black-romance-books/) is a forbidden love story that’s full of surprises.

## 3. “[Familiar Face](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/familiar-face-series/)” by Dipsea

![Familiar-Face-by-Dipsea](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/6s4wQYC5U11CUZ8RViYIPY/79d5a453f1323c3e6ea27713d4e7ec02/Familiar-Face-by-Dipsea.jpg)

Eight years ago, Irene was studying abroad in Dublin when she met Caitlin, an outgoing book lover who brought out her fun side. The two became fast friends and Irene always wondered if there was more to their relationship, but she returned back to America before they could find out.

Now, back in Ireland for a year pursuing a new job, Irene is surprised when she locks eyes with Caitlin in a bustling local pub. The two pick up right where they left off and, on a moonlit stroll near the river, they share a wild and passionate kiss. They could finally explore the chemistry between them if it wasn’t for one thing—they’re both seeing other people.

They decide to keep things platonic, but every time they hang out it becomes harder and harder to resist their growing attraction. They know they shouldn’t...they know it’s wrong...but soon they’re entangled in a full-blown, very spicy affair. Can their forbidden romance have a happy ending?

This original [sapphic audiobook](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/lesbian-romance-books/) features a flirty friends-to-lovers trope, diverse narrators, and an Irish accent so steamy you’ll need a pint of Guinness to cool off.

## 4. “[Birthday Girl](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/39555142-birthday-girl)” by Penelope Douglas

![Birthday-Girl-by-Penelope-Douglas](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/3CiGTrAJTps3rQiaD6AIkQ/aac95353efdb255ca36fabd1769ac93a/Birthday-Girl-by-Penelope-Douglas.jpg)

Dating one of your boyfriend’s friends is frowned upon. But, dating his dad? That’s unthinkable. Unfortunately for 19-year-old Jordan Hadley, she’s been thinking about it a lot.

When Jordan’s screw-up boyfriend Cole lands himself in jail, the pair are forced to leave their apartment and move in with Jordan’s dad, Pike. At 38 years old, Pike is a caring, responsible architect who’s just looking to lead a respectable life after a bitter divorce made him wary of love.

He gives his son and his girlfriend a place to stay out of the goodness of his heart, never expecting complicated feelings with Jordan to develop. But when Cole stands her up for a date and she finds herself watching a movie with Pike, the two realize they actually have a lot in common. Plus, Pike is actually there for her—unlike Cole. It’s not easy to ignore their growing chemistry when they’re sharing a house ([forced proximity](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/forced-proximity-trope/) vibes), and they soon give in to their attraction.

They know it’s wrong...but it’s also so, so right. Is there any way their forbidden romance can actually have a happy ending?

From the New York Times bestselling author of “Credence,” this Goodreads’ 2018 Best Romance winner is an [angsty contemporary romance](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/angsty-romance-books/) that age gap and forbidden romance trope lovers won’t be able to resist!

## 5. “[Scarred](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/59512586-scarred)” by Emily McIntire

![Scarred-by-Emily-McIntire](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/EF5wHa2H6TNkwzvpOjEfS/26f8d80fef17c46024f0f2817e14083d/Scarred-by-Emily-McIntire.jpg)

You probably never thought you needed to read a [dark romance](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/spicy-dark-romance-books/) inspired by “The Lion King,” but we’re here to tell you you absolutely do.

This forbidden romance book follows Tristan Faasa, a prince who secretly leads a rebellion group aimed at overthrowing his brother Michael’s impending reign. After being tormented by his brother for years, Tristan will stop at nothing to make sure Michael doesn’t take the throne. But when he meets Michael’s betrothed, Lady Sara Beatreaux, he realizes his plan—and his heart—are in trouble.

Sara Beatreaux is supposed to marry the king...and then she’s supposed to kill him. She’s on a mission to wipe out the entire Faasa bloodline, and that includes the infamous scarred prince. Tristan is dangerous, dark, and she hates everything he stands for. But there’s also something more to him...something unexpected.

When the lines between love and hate get crossed, the only thing left is fiery passion. They never thought things could get so complicated, but heavy is the head that wants to wear the crown.

This [enemies-to-lovers fantasy](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/enemies-to-lovers-fantasy-books/) book is the ultimate forbidden love story!

## 6. “[Keeping Score](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/keeping-score-series/)” by Dipsea

![Keeping-Score](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/6i65DVQRRivVctlYsJOlsw/6a6e39d36f103c0b913d2f2cd4b3e962/Keeping-Score.jpg)

Will and Alyssa were once best friends in high school, but they drifted apart as they followed their dreams. So it comes as quite a surprise when they’re reunited years later working for the same team. Will is a rising professional basketball star who’s looking to make it big after being traded to the NBA’s Pistons. Alyssa is a PR dynamo tasked with making the team shine off the court.

Their reunion sparks old feelings back to life, but they have to keep their budding romance a secret. After all, dating someone you work with is explicitly forbidden. If their secret gets out, will they still be able to score their happily ever after?

This original forbidden romance audiobook is perfect for readers who love sports romance and the friends-to-lovers trope!

## 7. “[These Violent Delights](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/50892212-these-violent-delights)” by Chloe Gong

![These-Violent-Delights-by-Chloe-Gong](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/6ORzioN7mLYXQwddrs24uC/7f8f109b644080be5315b338c2c098bd/These-Violent-Delights-by-Chloe-Gong.jpg)

A Goodreads Choice Award nominee and Amazon Editor’s Pick, this instant New York Times bestseller is a historical romance “Romeo and Juliet” retelling.

Set in 1926 Shanghai, this YA fantasy book follows Juliette Cai, a young woman who abandons her life as a flapper to fulfill her duty as heir of the Scarlet Gang, a criminal organization that even the law can’t stop. The only people who have ever come close to putting them in their place are the White Flowers, a rival gang led by bad boy Roma Montagov, Juliette’s first love.

When members of both gangs start dying at the hands of a mysterious monster, they must put aside old feelings and join forces to save the city. But ignoring old feelings is easier said than done...especially when it’s a steamy desire that could prove to be deadly. Violent delights have violent ends—not happy endings. Will these star-crossed lovers have a different fate?

The first in a viral duology, “These Violent Delights” is one of the most popular forbidden romance books. Definitely add this one to your TBR!

## Being wrong never felt so right

Forbidden love may be complicated, but it’s the tension that keeps us turning the pages. Whether it’s sneaking around, keeping secrets, or navigating the taboo, these romances prove that the only rule when it comes to love is following your heart. 

Want more forbidden love stories? Get steamy storylines, hot voices, and moments that will give you goosebumps when you [subscribe to Dipsea](https://www.dipseastories.com/subscribe/?f=2&promo=signup30d), the app for original spicy audiobooks!

Rules are meant to be broken, and these forbidden romance love stories do just that. Whether it’s an affair, a workplace romance, or falling for your sworn enemy, sometimes the heart just wants what it wants. We don’t judge, we just read. And these off-limits romance books are un-put-downable!

## 1. “[Priest](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25507389-priest)” by Sierra Simone

![Priest-by-Sierra-Simone](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/7cPEX02IYxAwWPNJ6hxpT7/82bb4e0b204afe4ddd59d250aa0aac87/Priest-by-Sierra-Simone.jpg)

Nothing can be more forbidden—[or hot](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/super-spicy-books/)—than a priest breaking his vows. But when Father Tyler Bell meets Poppy Danforth, that’s exactly what happens.

When Poppy stumbles into a confessional booth, she asks forgiveness for her sins: leaving behind a controlling ex-boyfriend and her big city job as a lawyer, disobeying her parents and moving to Kansas City to enroll in a dance academy—and becoming a stripper at a fancy gentleman’s club to pay the bills.

Her confession—and sultry voice—stirs something within Father Bell. Something sinful. Poppy’s story reminds him that just three years ago, he was a regular guy...with regular desires. It wasn’t until a shocking tragedy rocked his family did he decide to pick up robes and join the priesthood. But now, for the first time, he’s questioning that choice. What happens when your love of God rivals your growing love of a beautiful woman?

This forbidden romance book is so steamy (like, breaking vows of celibacy on a church altar steamy), it’d be a sin not to give it a chance.

## 2. “[Forbidden](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25760151-forbidden)” by Beverly Jenkins

![Forbidden-by-Beverly-Jenkins](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/deAwXl416qaveUpmXPlUh/c0776138d86ce06d74492b8673ca40c7/Forbidden-by-Beverly-Jenkins.jpg)

Eddy Carmichael has big dreams and she’s not going to let the difficult realities of being Black in a post-Civil War America stop her. As she journeys out west to California to open her own restaurant, she’s swindled and attacked by a con man who leaves her for dead in a Nevada desert.

When Rhine Fontaine and his business partner come across Eddy clinging to life, they bring her back to their saloon and let her recover in the rooms upstairs. Now instead of opening up her own establishment, Eddy is paying off her debt to a handsome white man by way of cooking meals for his saloon patrons.

Rhine is rich, successful, and wildly attracted to the outspoken and defiant Eddy—despite being engaged to a prominent white woman in town. He’s also harboring a long-kept secret: that he’s actually an escaped slave who’s just been passing a white. He always thought he’d take his secret to his grave, but if revealing the truth would mean a future with Eddy...it just might be worth it.

The first book in the Old West series, this [Black romance novel](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/black-romance-books/) is a forbidden love story that’s full of surprises.

## 3. “[Familiar Face](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/familiar-face-series/)” by Dipsea

![Familiar-Face-by-Dipsea](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/6s4wQYC5U11CUZ8RViYIPY/79d5a453f1323c3e6ea27713d4e7ec02/Familiar-Face-by-Dipsea.jpg)

Eight years ago, Irene was studying abroad in Dublin when she met Caitlin, an outgoing book lover who brought out her fun side. The two became fast friends and Irene always wondered if there was more to their relationship, but she returned back to America before they could find out.

Now, back in Ireland for a year pursuing a new job, Irene is surprised when she locks eyes with Caitlin in a bustling local pub. The two pick up right where they left off and, on a moonlit stroll near the river, they share a wild and passionate kiss. They could finally explore the chemistry between them if it wasn’t for one thing—they’re both seeing other people.

They decide to keep things platonic, but every time they hang out it becomes harder and harder to resist their growing attraction. They know they shouldn’t...they know it’s wrong...but soon they’re entangled in a full-blown, very spicy affair. Can their forbidden romance have a happy ending?

This original [sapphic audiobook](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/lesbian-romance-books/) features a flirty friends-to-lovers trope, diverse narrators, and an Irish accent so steamy you’ll need a pint of Guinness to cool off.

## 4. “[Birthday Girl](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/39555142-birthday-girl)” by Penelope Douglas

![Birthday-Girl-by-Penelope-Douglas](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/3CiGTrAJTps3rQiaD6AIkQ/aac95353efdb255ca36fabd1769ac93a/Birthday-Girl-by-Penelope-Douglas.jpg)

Dating one of your boyfriend’s friends is frowned upon. But, dating his dad? That’s unthinkable. Unfortunately for 19-year-old Jordan Hadley, she’s been thinking about it a lot.

When Jordan’s screw-up boyfriend Cole lands himself in jail, the pair are forced to leave their apartment and move in with Jordan’s dad, Pike. At 38 years old, Pike is a caring, responsible architect who’s just looking to lead a respectable life after a bitter divorce made him wary of love.

He gives his son and his girlfriend a place to stay out of the goodness of his heart, never expecting complicated feelings with Jordan to develop. But when Cole stands her up for a date and she finds herself watching a movie with Pike, the two realize they actually have a lot in common. Plus, Pike is actually there for her—unlike Cole. It’s not easy to ignore their growing chemistry when they’re sharing a house ([forced proximity](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/forced-proximity-trope/) vibes), and they soon give in to their attraction.

They know it’s wrong...but it’s also so, so right. Is there any way their forbidden romance can actually have a happy ending?

From the New York Times bestselling author of “Credence,” this Goodreads’ 2018 Best Romance winner is an [angsty contemporary romance](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/angsty-romance-books/) that age gap and forbidden romance trope lovers won’t be able to resist!

## 5. “[Scarred](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/59512586-scarred)” by Emily McIntire

![Scarred-by-Emily-McIntire](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/EF5wHa2H6TNkwzvpOjEfS/26f8d80fef17c46024f0f2817e14083d/Scarred-by-Emily-McIntire.jpg)

You probably never thought you needed to read a [dark romance](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/spicy-dark-romance-books/) inspired by “The Lion King,” but we’re here to tell you you absolutely do.

This forbidden romance book follows Tristan Faasa, a prince who secretly leads a rebellion group aimed at overthrowing his brother Michael’s impending reign. After being tormented by his brother for years, Tristan will stop at nothing to make sure Michael doesn’t take the throne. But when he meets Michael’s betrothed, Lady Sara Beatreaux, he realizes his plan—and his heart—are in trouble.

Sara Beatreaux is supposed to marry the king...and then she’s supposed to kill him. She’s on a mission to wipe out the entire Faasa bloodline, and that includes the infamous scarred prince. Tristan is dangerous, dark, and she hates everything he stands for. But there’s also something more to him...something unexpected.

When the lines between love and hate get crossed, the only thing left is fiery passion. They never thought things could get so complicated, but heavy is the head that wants to wear the crown.

This [enemies-to-lovers fantasy](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/enemies-to-lovers-fantasy-books/) book is the ultimate forbidden love story!

## 6. “[Keeping Score](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/keeping-score-series/)” by Dipsea

![Keeping-Score](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/6i65DVQRRivVctlYsJOlsw/6a6e39d36f103c0b913d2f2cd4b3e962/Keeping-Score.jpg)

Will and Alyssa were once best friends in high school, but they drifted apart as they followed their dreams. So it comes as quite a surprise when they’re reunited years later working for the same team. Will is a rising professional basketball star who’s looking to make it big after being traded to the NBA’s Pistons. Alyssa is a PR dynamo tasked with making the team shine off the court.

Their reunion sparks old feelings back to life, but they have to keep their budding romance a secret. After all, dating someone you work with is explicitly forbidden. If their secret gets out, will they still be able to score their happily ever after?

This original forbidden romance audiobook is perfect for readers who love sports romance and the friends-to-lovers trope!

## 7. “[These Violent Delights](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/50892212-these-violent-delights)” by Chloe Gong

![These-Violent-Delights-by-Chloe-Gong](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/6ORzioN7mLYXQwddrs24uC/7f8f109b644080be5315b338c2c098bd/These-Violent-Delights-by-Chloe-Gong.jpg)

A Goodreads Choice Award nominee and Amazon Editor’s Pick, this instant New York Times bestseller is a historical romance “Romeo and Juliet” retelling.

Set in 1926 Shanghai, this YA fantasy book follows Juliette Cai, a young woman who abandons her life as a flapper to fulfill her duty as heir of the Scarlet Gang, a criminal organization that even the law can’t stop. The only people who have ever come close to putting them in their place are the White Flowers, a rival gang led by bad boy Roma Montagov, Juliette’s first love.

When members of both gangs start dying at the hands of a mysterious monster, they must put aside old feelings and join forces to save the city. But ignoring old feelings is easier said than done...especially when it’s a steamy desire that could prove to be deadly. Violent delights have violent ends—not happy endings. Will these star-crossed lovers have a different fate?

The first in a viral duology, “These Violent Delights” is one of the most popular forbidden romance books. Definitely add this one to your TBR!

## Being wrong never felt so right

Forbidden love may be complicated, but it’s the tension that keeps us turning the pages. Whether it’s sneaking around, keeping secrets, or navigating the taboo, these romances prove that the only rule when it comes to love is following your heart. 

Want more forbidden love stories? Get steamy storylines, hot voices, and moments that will give you goosebumps when you [subscribe to Dipsea](https://www.dipseastories.com/subscribe/?f=2&promo=signup30d), the app for original spicy audiobooks!

If you’re craving a steamy story where the main characters aren’t allowed to be together, these 7 forbidden romances are for you.

Break the rules and check out these forbidden romance books

legs-of-a-man-and-a-woman

Sure, you’ve heard of [#BookTok](https://www.tiktok.com/tag/booktok?lang=en), but what about [#SpicyBookTok](https://www.tiktok.com/tag/spicybooktok?lang=en)? Scroll for just a few minutes and you’ll be flooded with spicy romance novels packed with all of the sweet moments and [tropes we love](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/romance-tropes/) with the addition of open-door steamy scenes.

From contemporary romance to romantasy, sports romance to historical romance, you won’t find any fade-to-black scenes in these books! Between the loveable characters, incredible plots, and steamy scenes, these spicy books will have you blushing and swooning all at once. Apologies in advance to your TBR, because these 15 steamy romance recs are must-reads!

## 1. “It Happened One Summer” by Tessa Bailey
![It-Happened-One-Summer-by-Tessa-Bailey](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/39zbGUFCBywDGW3Rav2cIp/b2eb6e989b590b60ddb684ded18d8e37/It-Happened-One-Summer-by-Tessa-Bailey.jpg)

Piper’s parents send her away to Westport, a small seaside town, as a punishment for being popular (OK, maybe more accurately it’s because she caused chaos, but still! Free Piper!). 

Westport is a far cry from her glamorous life in Los Angeles. Enter Brendan, a fishing captain who has gotten under Piper’s skin since the moment she showed up and doubts she has what it takes to make it without her parents’ money and connections. As she finds her footing in this new town, her path keeps crossing Brendan’s—and neither one of them is happy about it.

Tessa Bailey is a spice and banter QUEEN, and this book is no exception. If you love the grumpy/sunshine trope and loveable but ditzy Alexis from Schitt’s Creek, you will love Piper and this rom-com book. 

## 2. “Pucking Around” by Emily Rath
![Pucking-Around-by-Emily-Rath](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/3GojCarDp5DRLEadWa0Evh/315f04f063309d070f05ac50cd72b3ea/Pucking-Around-by-Emily-Rath.jpg)

This book has it all: enemies-to-lovers, friends-to-lovers, polyamorous romance, the spiciest scenes, hockey! Seriously, what’s not to love?

Rachel has just taken a new job as a doctor for an NHL team. One of the first people she meets? Jake, who she had an unforgettable one-night stand with in Seattle…who also happens to be one of the team’s star players. Sparks are also flying between Rachel and Caleb, her neighbor and equipment manager for the team (and Jake’s best friend). Enter Illmari, the team’s grumpy goalie, whose trust Rachel is determined to win. What she doesn’t count on is winning his heart too. 

There’s a prequel novella and two collections of bonus chapters, plus other books in the series focusing on some of the side characters from “Pucking Around.” This book is so good and I want to live in this world forever.

## 3. “The Local” by Dipsea
![The-Local-by-Dipsea](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/1NA7sd81KwhSeSHsnkQYn6/315dbbc315a9093cfb5b7b0194cd3a0c/The-Local-by-Dipsea.jpg)

Sabrina is an American living in Ireland and her new flat is right above a bustling pub (not exactly conducive to her studying). Killian is the hot bartender who is one part charming and one part irritating. What starts as innocent flirty banter across the bar quickly devolves into more and they can’t decide if they love or hate each other. 

This [audiobook is split into 11 chapters](https://www.dipseastories.com/series/the-local-series/) (plus bonus content!) and each one clocks in around 10 minutes. The steam is steaming, the Irish accent will melt you into a puddle, and you’ll get full-body chills from the way this spicy audiobook transports you into the moment. Go find your headphones! 

## 4. “The Love Hypothesis” by Ali Hazelwood
![The-Love-Hypothesis-by-Ali-Hazelwood](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/BsPpYqzqORcsW9M0a18cO/10b2a1eaabffdd259f4b8dca8128d934/The-Love-Hypothesis-by-Ali-Hazelwood.jpg)

Olive is a post-doc student at Stanford. Adam is the grumpiest (and hottest) professor in the department. After she accidentally kisses Adam (in her defense, she just kissed the first man she saw, she didn’t know it was him), Olive is convinced she’s going to be fired and maybe even deported back to Canada. But surprisingly, Adam agrees to a fake relationship to keep her nosy friends from meddling in her love life.

This book has tension, stolen glances, longing feelings, forced proximity (they have to share a hotel room!) and all the best parts of a grumpy/sunshine duo. It’s a slow burn but when they catch fire—watch out! While the story is told from Olive’s POV, we do get one chapter from Adam’s POV that is just *chef’s kiss*. This spicy romance book will leave your heart overflowing. 

## 5. “Twisted Lies” by Ana Huang
![Twisted-Lies-by-Ana-Huang](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/5dgWHsuGCjhioI7KpXtEA1/873d8ca97d29ad71db2105ffa33a344c/Twisted-Lies-by-Ana-Huang.jpg)

Stella thought her stalker had disappeared but he’s returned to her life and she’s terrified. Living on her own (even though she’s in one of D.C.’s safest buildings) isn’t making this easier. 

Christian owns Stella’s building and lives in the penthouse. He knows Stella through mutual friends (the couples from the other books in the Twisted series!) and wants to keep her safe so he proposes a solution: They pretend to date so her stalker will back off. This might have worked if her stalker didn’t mean BUSINESS. He continues to try to get to Stella, driving her closer to Christian, who will do anything to protect her.

If you like your [romance to have a dash of darkness](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/what-is-dark-romance/), morally gray men, lots of plot twists, and heaps of spice, you’ll love this.

Oh and PS: While it’s the fourth book in the Twisted series, it can totally be read as a standalone.

## 6. “Icebreaker” by Hannah Grace
![Icebreaker-by-Hannah-Grace](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/6IV7RE9UZKtUugKZLwv0W9/1a7fabeaff5439d2bbc73671a4e73c4b/Icebreaker-by-Hannah-Grace.jpg)

After an incident leaves one of the school’s rinks inoperable, the hockey and skating teams have to train on the same ice. 

And that ice isn’t big enough for Anastasia, a figure skater, and Nate, a hockey player. They butt heads repeatedly, before eventually settling into a truce when Nate steps up to fill in for Anastasia’s injured skating partner. As the weeks pass, there’s no denying their connection (seriously, their chemistry could melt the ice they are skating on). Don’t let the cartoon cover fool you—this book is steam city!

## 7. “Wrecked” by Lauren Asher
![Wrecked-by-Lauren-Asher](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/1eBFpDj2ef9ajLjGauLmJM/01968267275fb96ece5a00c78545a8aa/Wrecked-by-Lauren-Asher.jpg)

Lauren Asher’s billionaire Dreamland series gets a lot of love (as it should!) but don’t sleep on the Dirty Air series!

Wrecked is the third book in the series, which follows a group of F1 drivers. Jax is F1’s resident bad boy—a title he has worked hard to keep. Elena is the PR pro brought in to help him clean up his act, so naturally they get along like cats and dogs. But as we get to know them more, these two are more alike than they seem. Jax is haunted by his future and Elena is haunted by her past, but together they somehow find a way to live in the present. 

There’s angst, sadness, love, hope, and SPICE (looking at you, London Eye scene). This book is real and messy and emotional and outstanding. You can read it as a standalone, but the rest of the books in the series are incredible as well. 

## 8. “A Not So Meet Cute” by Meghan Quinn
![A-Not-So-Meet-Cute-by Meghan Quinn](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/2giBXKI2evx6oMwExkueNr/b001e575ca6c4f2a4aee41d64970d6b7/A-Not-So-Meet-Cute-by_Meghan_Quinn.jpg)

Lottie is sick and tired of being single so she decides to take matters into her own hands the only way she knows how: by walking through Beverly Hills and hoping to stumble upon a rich, hot, single man (honestly, a relatable queen). On her hot girl walk, she stumbles across Huxley, a billionaire who is in a bit of a situation because he accidentally told a super-important client that he and his fiancée are expecting a baby, when in reality he’s very single.

In an attempt to save his business deal from going south, Huxley convinces Lottie to be his loving (fake) fiancée. But Lottie has a mind of her own, which means these two are constantly caught up in hilarious hijinks. Plus, the more time they spend together faking it, the more real it all seems. This is the first in a three-part series following Huxley and his two brothers. If you’re a fan of Meghan Quinn, you may have been introduced to these guys in one of her other books!

## 9. “The Mistake” by Elle Kennedy
![The-Mistake-by-Elle-Kennedy](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/7lp4gB4RVFa10UuTgfLR3R/a8c91dea2e543d3ff4f3022504bf27db/The-Mistake-by-Elle-Kennedy.jpg)

Logan is a defenseman for the Briar University hockey team and the team is fresh off winning the championship. He’s got it all but unfortunately, he’s down bad for his best friend’s girlfriend, Hannah, and he feels awful about it. He meets Grace by total accident (literally showed up at her dorm looking for someone else) and they hit it off. But he’s worried he is leading Grace on when he’s got feelings for someone else so he calls it off (in the worst possible way). 

Grace is determined not to let some hockey player ruin her sophomore year. She might have fallen for Logan freshman year but she was young and naive. She won’t make the same mistake again. But Logan is determined to win her back and he’s willing to do anything to gain her trust. It’s funny, witty, sweet, Logan is the [perfect book boyfriend](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/men-written-by-women/), and I would do anything to stay in the Briar University world forever. 

And luckily for me (and you) we can! This spicy romance book is the second of a five-book series, there’s a four-book series set in the same universe, and the first two books of a new next-generation series are out now.

## 10. “Scarred” by Emily McIntire
![Scarred-by-Emily-McIntire](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/EF5wHa2H6TNkwzvpOjEfS/26f8d80fef17c46024f0f2817e14083d/Scarred-by-Emily-McIntire.jpg)

Nobody makes you root for a villain like Emily McIntire! Tristan is the second-born prince (the spare to his brother’s heir) and he’s plotting to overthrow him and steal the crown.

Sara is brought to the palace to wed the future king and her goal is to gain his trust and use that to take him down. She has no love for the king or his dangerous, trouble-making brother. But nothing brings people together like a shared hatred for something (or someone) else and before long, Sara and Tristan are finding it hard to stay away from each other. It’s dark and fiery, and Tristan may not be the good guy, but man do we root for him!

This book series flirts with some of the themes of dark romance books without getting too dark. And while each book isn’t a literal retelling of your favorite fairy tales, you can definitely see the influence.

## 11. “Punk 57” by Penelope Douglas
![Punk-57-by-Penelope-Douglas](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/7DQGOxvt4E35L0creQqFBV/652fb2fdedf25fe15a980ce78e651005/Punk-57-by-Penelope-Douglas.jpg)

Misha and Ryen were paired as pen pals during fifth grade and over the years built an unshakeable bond despite never actually meeting in person. They keep things strictly anonymous and without knowing each other’s full names or what each other looks like, they are able to confide in one another about anything and everything.

This arrangement is going just fine until Misha stumbles across a social media profile that looks like it could belong to Ryen. He tempts fate and does some digging on her—which will change their relationship forever.

## 12. “Reluctantly Yours” by Erin Hawkins
![Reluctantly-Yours-by-Erin-Hawkins](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/2XsGxzLMi3XwXGEsDd3mGr/e5cf82a49a6f509d72d6ec5c969de5f0/Reluctantly-Yours-by-Erin-Hawkins.jpg)

Chloe is the editorial assistant for the head of a media company and she LOVES her job. That job is put in jeopardy when she decides to host her childhood best friend’s bachelorette party at her boss’ fancy penthouse (before you judge—the restaurant reservation fell through and Chloe has a tiny New York City apartment!!). 

She and her friends get busted mid-party, not by her boss but by Barrett, the bosses’ grumpy-and-reserved-but-super-hot son and heir to the media company. Chloe’s toast, right? Wrong! Barrett is in need of a (fake, but no one needs to know it’s fake) relationship to prove to a business partner that he’s a serious, committed guy and not a total playboy. They strike a deal: Chloe pretends to be his girlfriend and he won’t tell his mom she was partying in her penthouse. 

This book delivers all the spicy, steamy tension you would expect for a pair of rivals who find themselves in a fake dating scenario. The banter is top tier and their story is so sweet. You can read it as a standalone, but it’s the first in a series if you just want to stay lost in this world (and trust me, you do)! 

## 13. “Play With Me” by Becka Mack
![Play-With-Me-by-Becka-Mack](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/1UdDQeUNpLW6dAZfqCTEwt/629d00ccbdcb60371255a82d443a79a7/Play-With-Me-by-Becka-Mack.jpg)

If you read [sports romance books](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/sports-romance-books/), you know the cardinal rule: no dating your teammates' sister (especially when that teammate is your best friend and team captain).

Garrett wants to follow the rule but the more time he spends with Jenny, the more he wants to risk it all. Jenny just wants to step out of her famous brother’s shadow and stand on her own two feet. She really loves the unlikely friendship she’s formed with Garrett (after an embarrassing start but who's keeping track) and is caught off guard by how easily her feelings of friendship turn into something more.

Garrett and Jenny are so funny and sweet with each other but they know how to bring the heat too. This is the second book in the series and while you can read it as a standalone, why would you want to when the other books are just so good??

## 14. “Heartless” by Elsie Silver
![Heartless-by-Elsie-Silver](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/5X9cHVIAKdTV7SKMWBfDDd/7848b151974aa10251c664c4af2d0983/Heartless-by-Elsie-Silver.jpg)

Cade is a tough-as-nails cowboy who runs the family ranch while raising his son as a single dad. Willa is a firecracker outsider who finds herself in need of a job in the small town of Chestnut Springs. Through the work of fate (aka Willa’s best friend and Cade’s sister-in-law, Summer) Willa agrees to nanny Cade’s five-year-old son for the summer.

She’s young, wild, funny, gorgeous, and 100% OFF LIMITS. Cade tries to keep a polite distance but every day spent with Willa, his resolve slips a little more. And Willa definitely doesn’t make it easy for him, pushing his buttons and testing his resolve any chance she gets.

This spicy romance book is the second book in the series, plus, the author has other series set in the same universe.

## 15. “Electric Idol” by Katee Robert
![Electric-Idol-by-Katee-Robert](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/5wk0ESkTzCi99BaY9c1kK5/2cef33216b8179b7904506aa6061aa33/Electric-Idol-by-Katee-Robert.jpg)

You think you’ve got mother-in-law problems? Psyche would like a word! In this fantasy romance set in a modern Mount Olympus, our girl Psyche has found herself on Aphrodite’s bad side (never a good place to be) and Eros, Aphrodite’s son, has been ordered to kill her. 

Normally, a little murder would be no problem for Eros. He’s a monster, after all. But when he sees Psyche, he just…can’t. Unable to hurt her and completely perplexed as to why, he decides the only logical thing to do is marry her (obviously). Now Psyche has a super hot husband she’s not so sure about and a mother-in-law who is LESS than thrilled with her. Great.

These two are, well…electric. Run, don’t walk. And if you can’t get enough of the Greek gods, this is the second in the series (and yes, she has a book about everyone’s favorite couple, Hades and Persephone!).

__If you liked these book recommendations, check more spicy audiobooks [on the Dipsea app](https://www.dipseastories.com/subscribe/?f=2&promo=try30d).__

Sure, you’ve heard of [#BookTok](https://www.tiktok.com/tag/booktok?lang=en), but what about [#SpicyBookTok](https://www.tiktok.com/tag/spicybooktok?lang=en)? Scroll for just a few minutes and you’ll be flooded with spicy romance novels packed with all of the sweet moments and [tropes we love](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/romance-tropes/) with the addition of open-door steamy scenes.

From contemporary romance to romantasy, sports romance to historical romance, you won’t find any fade-to-black scenes in these books! Between the loveable characters, incredible plots, and steamy scenes, these spicy books will have you blushing and swooning all at once. Apologies in advance to your TBR, because these 15 steamy romance recs are must-reads!

## 1. “It Happened One Summer” by Tessa Bailey
![It-Happened-One-Summer-by-Tessa-Bailey](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/39zbGUFCBywDGW3Rav2cIp/b2eb6e989b590b60ddb684ded18d8e37/It-Happened-One-Summer-by-Tessa-Bailey.jpg)

Piper’s parents send her away to Westport, a small seaside town, as a punishment for being popular (OK, maybe more accurately it’s because she caused chaos, but still! Free Piper!). 

Westport is a far cry from her glamorous life in Los Angeles. Enter Brendan, a fishing captain who has gotten under Piper’s skin since the moment she showed up and doubts she has what it takes to make it without her parents’ money and connections. As she finds her footing in this new town, her path keeps crossing Brendan’s—and neither one of them is happy about it.

Tessa Bailey is a spice and banter QUEEN, and this book is no exception. If you love the grumpy/sunshine trope and loveable but ditzy Alexis from Schitt’s Creek, you will love Piper and this rom-com book. 

## 2. “Pucking Around” by Emily Rath
![Pucking-Around-by-Emily-Rath](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/3GojCarDp5DRLEadWa0Evh/315f04f063309d070f05ac50cd72b3ea/Pucking-Around-by-Emily-Rath.jpg)

This book has it all: enemies-to-lovers, friends-to-lovers, polyamorous romance, the spiciest scenes, hockey! Seriously, what’s not to love?

Rachel has just taken a new job as a doctor for an NHL team. One of the first people she meets? Jake, who she had an unforgettable one-night stand with in Seattle…who also happens to be one of the team’s star players. Sparks are also flying between Rachel and Caleb, her neighbor and equipment manager for the team (and Jake’s best friend). Enter Illmari, the team’s grumpy goalie, whose trust Rachel is determined to win. What she doesn’t count on is winning his heart too. 

There’s a prequel novella and two collections of bonus chapters, plus other books in the series focusing on some of the side characters from “Pucking Around.” This book is so good and I want to live in this world forever.

## 3. “The Local” by Dipsea
![The-Local-by-Dipsea](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/1NA7sd81KwhSeSHsnkQYn6/315dbbc315a9093cfb5b7b0194cd3a0c/The-Local-by-Dipsea.jpg)

Sabrina is an American living in Ireland and her new flat is right above a bustling pub (not exactly conducive to her studying). Killian is the hot bartender who is one part charming and one part irritating. What starts as innocent flirty banter across the bar quickly devolves into more and they can’t decide if they love or hate each other. 

This [audiobook is split into 11 chapters](https://www.dipseastories.com/series/the-local-series/) (plus bonus content!) and each one clocks in around 10 minutes. The steam is steaming, the Irish accent will melt you into a puddle, and you’ll get full-body chills from the way this spicy audiobook transports you into the moment. Go find your headphones! 

## 4. “The Love Hypothesis” by Ali Hazelwood
![The-Love-Hypothesis-by-Ali-Hazelwood](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/BsPpYqzqORcsW9M0a18cO/10b2a1eaabffdd259f4b8dca8128d934/The-Love-Hypothesis-by-Ali-Hazelwood.jpg)

Olive is a post-doc student at Stanford. Adam is the grumpiest (and hottest) professor in the department. After she accidentally kisses Adam (in her defense, she just kissed the first man she saw, she didn’t know it was him), Olive is convinced she’s going to be fired and maybe even deported back to Canada. But surprisingly, Adam agrees to a fake relationship to keep her nosy friends from meddling in her love life.

This book has tension, stolen glances, longing feelings, forced proximity (they have to share a hotel room!) and all the best parts of a grumpy/sunshine duo. It’s a slow burn but when they catch fire—watch out! While the story is told from Olive’s POV, we do get one chapter from Adam’s POV that is just *chef’s kiss*. This spicy romance book will leave your heart overflowing. 

## 5. “Twisted Lies” by Ana Huang
![Twisted-Lies-by-Ana-Huang](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/5dgWHsuGCjhioI7KpXtEA1/873d8ca97d29ad71db2105ffa33a344c/Twisted-Lies-by-Ana-Huang.jpg)

Stella thought her stalker had disappeared but he’s returned to her life and she’s terrified. Living on her own (even though she’s in one of D.C.’s safest buildings) isn’t making this easier. 

Christian owns Stella’s building and lives in the penthouse. He knows Stella through mutual friends (the couples from the other books in the Twisted series!) and wants to keep her safe so he proposes a solution: They pretend to date so her stalker will back off. This might have worked if her stalker didn’t mean BUSINESS. He continues to try to get to Stella, driving her closer to Christian, who will do anything to protect her.

If you like your [romance to have a dash of darkness](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/what-is-dark-romance/), morally gray men, lots of plot twists, and heaps of spice, you’ll love this.

Oh and PS: While it’s the fourth book in the Twisted series, it can totally be read as a standalone.

## 6. “Icebreaker” by Hannah Grace
![Icebreaker-by-Hannah-Grace](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/6IV7RE9UZKtUugKZLwv0W9/1a7fabeaff5439d2bbc73671a4e73c4b/Icebreaker-by-Hannah-Grace.jpg)

After an incident leaves one of the school’s rinks inoperable, the hockey and skating teams have to train on the same ice. 

And that ice isn’t big enough for Anastasia, a figure skater, and Nate, a hockey player. They butt heads repeatedly, before eventually settling into a truce when Nate steps up to fill in for Anastasia’s injured skating partner. As the weeks pass, there’s no denying their connection (seriously, their chemistry could melt the ice they are skating on). Don’t let the cartoon cover fool you—this book is steam city!

## 7. “Wrecked” by Lauren Asher
![Wrecked-by-Lauren-Asher](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/1eBFpDj2ef9ajLjGauLmJM/01968267275fb96ece5a00c78545a8aa/Wrecked-by-Lauren-Asher.jpg)

Lauren Asher’s billionaire Dreamland series gets a lot of love (as it should!) but don’t sleep on the Dirty Air series!

Wrecked is the third book in the series, which follows a group of F1 drivers. Jax is F1’s resident bad boy—a title he has worked hard to keep. Elena is the PR pro brought in to help him clean up his act, so naturally they get along like cats and dogs. But as we get to know them more, these two are more alike than they seem. Jax is haunted by his future and Elena is haunted by her past, but together they somehow find a way to live in the present. 

There’s angst, sadness, love, hope, and SPICE (looking at you, London Eye scene). This book is real and messy and emotional and outstanding. You can read it as a standalone, but the rest of the books in the series are incredible as well. 

## 8. “A Not So Meet Cute” by Meghan Quinn
![A-Not-So-Meet-Cute-by Meghan Quinn](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/2giBXKI2evx6oMwExkueNr/b001e575ca6c4f2a4aee41d64970d6b7/A-Not-So-Meet-Cute-by_Meghan_Quinn.jpg)

Lottie is sick and tired of being single so she decides to take matters into her own hands the only way she knows how: by walking through Beverly Hills and hoping to stumble upon a rich, hot, single man (honestly, a relatable queen). On her hot girl walk, she stumbles across Huxley, a billionaire who is in a bit of a situation because he accidentally told a super-important client that he and his fiancée are expecting a baby, when in reality he’s very single.

In an attempt to save his business deal from going south, Huxley convinces Lottie to be his loving (fake) fiancée. But Lottie has a mind of her own, which means these two are constantly caught up in hilarious hijinks. Plus, the more time they spend together faking it, the more real it all seems. This is the first in a three-part series following Huxley and his two brothers. If you’re a fan of Meghan Quinn, you may have been introduced to these guys in one of her other books!

## 9. “The Mistake” by Elle Kennedy
![The-Mistake-by-Elle-Kennedy](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/7lp4gB4RVFa10UuTgfLR3R/a8c91dea2e543d3ff4f3022504bf27db/The-Mistake-by-Elle-Kennedy.jpg)

Logan is a defenseman for the Briar University hockey team and the team is fresh off winning the championship. He’s got it all but unfortunately, he’s down bad for his best friend’s girlfriend, Hannah, and he feels awful about it. He meets Grace by total accident (literally showed up at her dorm looking for someone else) and they hit it off. But he’s worried he is leading Grace on when he’s got feelings for someone else so he calls it off (in the worst possible way). 

Grace is determined not to let some hockey player ruin her sophomore year. She might have fallen for Logan freshman year but she was young and naive. She won’t make the same mistake again. But Logan is determined to win her back and he’s willing to do anything to gain her trust. It’s funny, witty, sweet, Logan is the [perfect book boyfriend](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/men-written-by-women/), and I would do anything to stay in the Briar University world forever. 

And luckily for me (and you) we can! This spicy romance book is the second of a five-book series, there’s a four-book series set in the same universe, and the first two books of a new next-generation series are out now.

## 10. “Scarred” by Emily McIntire
![Scarred-by-Emily-McIntire](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/EF5wHa2H6TNkwzvpOjEfS/26f8d80fef17c46024f0f2817e14083d/Scarred-by-Emily-McIntire.jpg)

Nobody makes you root for a villain like Emily McIntire! Tristan is the second-born prince (the spare to his brother’s heir) and he’s plotting to overthrow him and steal the crown.

Sara is brought to the palace to wed the future king and her goal is to gain his trust and use that to take him down. She has no love for the king or his dangerous, trouble-making brother. But nothing brings people together like a shared hatred for something (or someone) else and before long, Sara and Tristan are finding it hard to stay away from each other. It’s dark and fiery, and Tristan may not be the good guy, but man do we root for him!

This book series flirts with some of the themes of dark romance books without getting too dark. And while each book isn’t a literal retelling of your favorite fairy tales, you can definitely see the influence.

## 11. “Punk 57” by Penelope Douglas
![Punk-57-by-Penelope-Douglas](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/7DQGOxvt4E35L0creQqFBV/652fb2fdedf25fe15a980ce78e651005/Punk-57-by-Penelope-Douglas.jpg)

Misha and Ryen were paired as pen pals during fifth grade and over the years built an unshakeable bond despite never actually meeting in person. They keep things strictly anonymous and without knowing each other’s full names or what each other looks like, they are able to confide in one another about anything and everything.

This arrangement is going just fine until Misha stumbles across a social media profile that looks like it could belong to Ryen. He tempts fate and does some digging on her—which will change their relationship forever.

## 12. “Reluctantly Yours” by Erin Hawkins
![Reluctantly-Yours-by-Erin-Hawkins](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/2XsGxzLMi3XwXGEsDd3mGr/e5cf82a49a6f509d72d6ec5c969de5f0/Reluctantly-Yours-by-Erin-Hawkins.jpg)

Chloe is the editorial assistant for the head of a media company and she LOVES her job. That job is put in jeopardy when she decides to host her childhood best friend’s bachelorette party at her boss’ fancy penthouse (before you judge—the restaurant reservation fell through and Chloe has a tiny New York City apartment!!). 

She and her friends get busted mid-party, not by her boss but by Barrett, the bosses’ grumpy-and-reserved-but-super-hot son and heir to the media company. Chloe’s toast, right? Wrong! Barrett is in need of a (fake, but no one needs to know it’s fake) relationship to prove to a business partner that he’s a serious, committed guy and not a total playboy. They strike a deal: Chloe pretends to be his girlfriend and he won’t tell his mom she was partying in her penthouse. 

This book delivers all the spicy, steamy tension you would expect for a pair of rivals who find themselves in a fake dating scenario. The banter is top tier and their story is so sweet. You can read it as a standalone, but it’s the first in a series if you just want to stay lost in this world (and trust me, you do)! 

## 13. “Play With Me” by Becka Mack
![Play-With-Me-by-Becka-Mack](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/1UdDQeUNpLW6dAZfqCTEwt/629d00ccbdcb60371255a82d443a79a7/Play-With-Me-by-Becka-Mack.jpg)

If you read [sports romance books](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/sports-romance-books/), you know the cardinal rule: no dating your teammates' sister (especially when that teammate is your best friend and team captain).

Garrett wants to follow the rule but the more time he spends with Jenny, the more he wants to risk it all. Jenny just wants to step out of her famous brother’s shadow and stand on her own two feet. She really loves the unlikely friendship she’s formed with Garrett (after an embarrassing start but who's keeping track) and is caught off guard by how easily her feelings of friendship turn into something more.

Garrett and Jenny are so funny and sweet with each other but they know how to bring the heat too. This is the second book in the series and while you can read it as a standalone, why would you want to when the other books are just so good??

## 14. “Heartless” by Elsie Silver
![Heartless-by-Elsie-Silver](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/5X9cHVIAKdTV7SKMWBfDDd/7848b151974aa10251c664c4af2d0983/Heartless-by-Elsie-Silver.jpg)

Cade is a tough-as-nails cowboy who runs the family ranch while raising his son as a single dad. Willa is a firecracker outsider who finds herself in need of a job in the small town of Chestnut Springs. Through the work of fate (aka Willa’s best friend and Cade’s sister-in-law, Summer) Willa agrees to nanny Cade’s five-year-old son for the summer.

She’s young, wild, funny, gorgeous, and 100% OFF LIMITS. Cade tries to keep a polite distance but every day spent with Willa, his resolve slips a little more. And Willa definitely doesn’t make it easy for him, pushing his buttons and testing his resolve any chance she gets.

This spicy romance book is the second book in the series, plus, the author has other series set in the same universe.

## 15. “Electric Idol” by Katee Robert
![Electric-Idol-by-Katee-Robert](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/5wk0ESkTzCi99BaY9c1kK5/2cef33216b8179b7904506aa6061aa33/Electric-Idol-by-Katee-Robert.jpg)

You think you’ve got mother-in-law problems? Psyche would like a word! In this fantasy romance set in a modern Mount Olympus, our girl Psyche has found herself on Aphrodite’s bad side (never a good place to be) and Eros, Aphrodite’s son, has been ordered to kill her. 

Normally, a little murder would be no problem for Eros. He’s a monster, after all. But when he sees Psyche, he just…can’t. Unable to hurt her and completely perplexed as to why, he decides the only logical thing to do is marry her (obviously). Now Psyche has a super hot husband she’s not so sure about and a mother-in-law who is LESS than thrilled with her. Great.

These two are, well…electric. Run, don’t walk. And if you can’t get enough of the Greek gods, this is the second in the series (and yes, she has a book about everyone’s favorite couple, Hades and Persephone!).

__If you liked these book recommendations, check more spicy audiobooks [on the Dipsea app](https://www.dipseastories.com/subscribe/?f=2&promo=try30d).__

Spicy romance books have been breaking reading dry spells for people everywhere. These 15 will have you kicking your feet and blushing.

15 spicy romance books to break you out of your reading slump

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Get the story behind the spicy story, and meet the team building the next-gen of romance.

Dipsea | Blog

### #BookTok
Maybe Fourth Wing was your gateway drug into romance, maybe the Netflix show Bridgerton inspired a deeper dive, or maybe you read Fifty Shades of Grey ten years ago and the algorithm is just catching up to you. But if you've been scrolling through #BookTok on TikTok lately, you've probably started seeing Gothic-looking book covers adorned with skulls, roses, and the occasional shirtless man in stark black and white.

Welcome to the dark side—let’s explore the wild world of dark romance. We’ll show what you can expect from dark romance authors, the common tropes in these love stories, and some book recommendations for you to explore dark themes. 

### What is dark romance?
Let's get one thing straight: Dark romance isn't for everyone. It's not about kisses, butterflies, and happy endings where the heroine rides off into the sunset with her love interest. No, dark romance is a subgenre of romance that’s all about the messy, complicated, and sometimes downright twisted side of love and relationships. It (sometimes) even explores themes of violence, abuse, and trauma.

That's what makes dark romance so addictive to its fans. It has all of the most delicious themes common in most romance—love, chemistry, and spice. But where most romance keeps its characters unequivocally good and its themes light, dark romance is not afraid to explore the darker aspects of human nature and relationships. 

This genre delves into taboo themes like power dynamics, obsession, and fear. And its characters often walk a very thin line between good guy and bad guy.

### 3 common tropes found in dark romance
There is a diverse spectrum of dark romance novels. While some popular BookTok books are full-on stalking fantasies, many are closer to a beach read with a dose of darkness. Let’s explore three common themes that tie the dark romance genre together.

__1. Morally gray characters and anti-heroes__

The male protagonists of dark romance are often flawed, not-so-good guys who may engage in questionable or even criminal behavior. They might even be a straight-up serial killer. Often, they’ll stop at no cost to protect what they love (usually, their girl). 

In a typical romance, a love interest might quit bull riding for his lover or practice figure skating lifts with her. Dark romance MMCs tend to ruthlessly destroy the lives of (or in some cases, like, actually kill) any man who’s ever wronged their beloved. Kind of a different storyline!

__2. Internally consistent (but not traditional) moral codes__

The men of dark romance may not abide by a traditional definition of right and wrong, but they do usually have a code they live by that is consistent with their own morals, and tend to be extremely pragmatic in a violent and unjust world. 

Zade of Haunting Adeline has no qualms killing people if they are violent men who prey on the weak (women and children). 

Draco in Manacled (a popular Harry Potter fanfic with a juicy enemies to lovers trope) will do anything to protect and defend his mother, and is also critically aware that if he didn’t do the Dark Lord’s dirty work, someone else would.

Hades in Forbidden Fruit, a spicy audiobook on Dipsea, refuses to play by the rules of the other gods. He’s happy to let them think that Persephone is kept in the Underworld against her will, because he will do absolutely anything to have her. 

But whether the MMCs in dark romance are villains or just seem like villains, across the board they are willing to be the “monster” if it means protecting, loving, and cherishing their princess. And while the men (and gods) of dark romance certainly aren’t good, they are usually only bad for a very good reason. 

__3. Taboo themes and intense emotional journeys__

Dark romance novels often explore controversial topics such as obsession, captivity, violence, BDSM, and dubious consent or non-consensual acts. The flawed characters of this genre are often working through childhood trauma or otherwise living in violent circumstances that have shaped their ruthless attitudes and informed their personal moral codes. 

These themes create a sense of intensity and extremity which heighten the drama and addictiveness of the stories, but these challenging topics also act as deep paths of connection between the main characters. They can heal, protect, and cherish each other in a world that has been cruel to them or does not understand them. 

### Books recs for beginners

For those just starting their journey into the tantalizing world of dark romance, dipping your toes into the genre can be both thrilling and slightly intimidating. To ease your way into this spicy realm, here are five popular dark romance books that serve as perfect entry points for beginners:

"Still Beating" by Jennifer Hartmann: This gripping standalone novel introduces readers to a world where love and danger collide in unexpected ways. Following the tumultuous relationship between a young woman named Ava and a mysterious man with a troubled past, "Still Beating" explores themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the healing power of love. With its compelling storyline and complex characters, this book is sure to keep you hooked from beginning to end.

"Hawke" by Jescie Hall: If you're a fan of steamy romance with a hint of suspense, "Hawke" is the perfect choice. Set in a small town where secrets run deep, this novel follows the forbidden romance between a brooding bad boy named Hawke and a fiercely independent woman named Liv. As their attraction intensifies, they must navigate the dangerous consequences of their love in a town where everyone has something to hide. With its sizzling chemistry and edge-of-your-seat suspense, "Hawke" is a must-read for fans of dark romance.

The Never After series by Emily McIntire: Dive into a world of forbidden love and dark magic with this captivating series. Set in a dystopian future where society is ruled by ruthless leaders, these books follow the journey of a young woman named Elara as she navigates a dangerous romance with a mysterious stranger named Kael. Filled with twists, turns, and heart-pounding suspense, "The Never After series" will keep you guessing until the very end.

"Does It Hurt?" by H.D. Carlton: For readers who enjoy their romance with a side of psychological intrigue, "Does It Hurt?" delivers in spades. This chilling tale follows the twisted relationship between a young woman named Lily and a seductive stranger named Jack. As Lily becomes entangled in Jack's dark world of obsession and manipulation, she must confront her deepest fears and desires. With its haunting prose and spine-tingling suspense, "Does It Hurt?" is a must-read for fans of psychological dark romance.

”Wicked Words” an audiobook on the Dipsea app: When celebrity biographer Adrienne Stone's father passes away, he leaves the family estate to her reckless brother. But her brother, burned by his debts, is forced to sell it to notorious tech mogul, Alexander Blackwood. In a twist of fate, Adrienne finds herself agreeing to write Alexander's biography and, despite their initial animosity, she discovers a man far different from what the headlines suggest. With its blend of intrigue, passion, and unexpected twists, "Wicked Words" will keep you enthralled from start to finish.

### Trigger warnings and critiques of dark romance
There are a few critiques of dark romance and dark fantasy that often come up.

Some people argue that this subgenre romanticizes and glorifies toxic relationships and unhealthy behaviors. There's a concern that readers, especially younger ones, might internalize these problematic dynamics and view them as desirable or acceptable in real life. 

Critics also point out that the power imbalances and non-consensual elements in many dark romance stories can be triggering or harmful to readers who have experienced trauma or abuse. There's a fine line between exploring these themes in a fictional setting and glamorizing them, and some believe that dark romance writers cross that line. 

However, at Dipsea we think that dark romance provides a safe space to explore these darker themes and fantasies without real-world consequences. And we’re confident that readers are capable of distinguishing between fiction and reality. Ultimately, as with any genre, it's up to individuals to decide what they're comfortable with.

In most dark romance books, there are trigger warnings which will tell you what to expect beforehand. If you’re worried about encountering content that disturbing or upsetting, make sure you read these warnings ahead of time!

### Explore the dark side of romance
Fiction plays a unique role in everyone’s lives and we’re not here to shame you! 

If you have a fresh download on your Kindle or are browsing Amazon listings, you can check trigger warnings and content warnings on Goodreads. 

If you’re listening on a spicy audiobook platform like Dipsea, you can get all the information you need in the tags before you press play.


### #BookTok
Maybe Fourth Wing was your gateway drug into romance, maybe the Netflix show Bridgerton inspired a deeper dive, or maybe you read Fifty Shades of Grey ten years ago and the algorithm is just catching up to you. But if you've been scrolling through #BookTok on TikTok lately, you've probably started seeing Gothic-looking book covers adorned with skulls, roses, and the occasional shirtless men in stark black and white.

Welcome to the dark side—let’s explore the wild world of dark romance. We’ll show what you can expect from dark romance authors, the common tropes in these love stories, and some book recommendations for you to explore dark themes. 

### What is dark romance?
Let's get one thing straight: Dark romance isn't for everyone. It's not about kisses, butterflies, and happy endings where the heroine rides off into the sunset with her love interest. No, dark romance is a subgenre of romance that’s all about the messy, complicated, and sometimes downright twisted side of love and relationships. It (sometimes) even explores themes of violence, abuse, and trauma.

That's what makes dark romance so addictive to its fans. It has all of the most delicious themes common in most romance—love, chemistry, and spice. But where most romance keeps its characters unequivocally good and its themes light, dark romance is not afraid to explore the darker aspects of human nature and relationships. 

This genre delves into taboo themes like power dynamics, obsession, and fear. And its characters often walk a very thin line between good guy and bad guy.

### 3 common tropes found in dark romance
There is a diverse spectrum of dark romance novels. While some popular BookTok books are full-on stalking fantasies, many are closer to a beach read with a dose of darkness. Let’s explore three common themes that tie the dark romance genre together.

__1. Morally gray characters and anti-heroes__

The male protagonists of dark romance are often flawed, not-so-good guys who may engage in questionable or even criminal behavior. They might even be a straight-up serial killer. Often, they’ll stop at no cost to protect what they love (usually, their girl). 

In a typical romance, a love interest might quit bull riding for his lover or practice figure skating lifts with her. Dark romance MMCs tend to ruthlessly destroy the lives of (or in some cases, like, actually kill) any man who’s ever wronged their beloved. Kind of a different storyline!

__2. Internally consistent (but not traditional) moral codes__

The men of dark romance may not abide by a traditional definition of right and wrong, but they do usually have a code they live by that is consistent with their own morals, and tend to be extremely pragmatic in a violent and unjust world. 

Zade of Haunting Adeline has no qualms killing people if they are violent men who prey on the weak (women and children). 

Draco in Manacled (a popular Harry Potter fanfic with a juicy enemies to lovers trope) will do anything to protect and defend his mother, and is also critically aware that if he didn’t do the Dark Lord’s dirty work, someone else would.

Hades in Forbidden Fruit, a spicy audiobook on Dipsea, refuses to play by the rules of the other gods. He’s happy to let them think that Persephone is kept in the Underworld against her will, because he will do absolutely anything to have her. 

But whether the MMCs in dark romance are villains or just seem like villains, across the board they are willing to be the “monster” if it means protecting, loving, and cherishing their princess. And while the men (and gods) of dark romance certainly aren’t good, they are usually only bad for a very good reason. 

__3. Taboo themes and intense emotional journeys__

Dark romance novels often explore controversial topics such as obsession, captivity, violence, BDSM, and dubious consent or non-consensual acts. The flawed characters of this genre are often working through childhood trauma or otherwise living in violent circumstances that have shaped their ruthless attitudes and informed their personal moral codes. 

These themes create a sense of intensity and extremity which heighten the drama and addictiveness of the stories, but these challenging topics also act as deep paths of connection between the main characters. They can heal, protect, and cherish each other in a world that has been cruel to them or does not understand them. 

### Books recs for beginners

For those just starting their journey into the tantalizing world of dark romance, dipping your toes into the genre can be both thrilling and slightly intimidating. To ease your way into this spicy realm, here are five popular dark romance books that serve as perfect entry points for beginners:

"Still Beating" by Jennifer Hartmann: This gripping standalone novel introduces readers to a world where love and danger collide in unexpected ways. Following the tumultuous relationship between a young woman named Ava and a mysterious man with a troubled past, "Still Beating" explores themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the healing power of love. With its compelling storyline and complex characters, this book is sure to keep you hooked from beginning to end.

"Hawke" by Jescie Hall: If you're a fan of steamy romance with a hint of suspense, "Hawke" is the perfect choice. Set in a small town where secrets run deep, this novel follows the forbidden romance between a brooding bad boy named Hawke and a fiercely independent woman named Liv. As their attraction intensifies, they must navigate the dangerous consequences of their love in a town where everyone has something to hide. With its sizzling chemistry and edge-of-your-seat suspense, "Hawke" is a must-read for fans of dark romance.

The Never After series by Emily McIntire: Dive into a world of forbidden love and dark magic with this captivating series. Set in a dystopian future where society is ruled by ruthless leaders, these books follow the journey of a young woman named Elara as she navigates a dangerous romance with a mysterious stranger named Kael. Filled with twists, turns, and heart-pounding suspense, "The Never After series" will keep you guessing until the very end.

"Does It Hurt?" by H.D. Carlton: For readers who enjoy their romance with a side of psychological intrigue, "Does It Hurt?" delivers in spades. This chilling tale follows the twisted relationship between a young woman named Lily and a seductive stranger named Jack. As Lily becomes entangled in Jack's dark world of obsession and manipulation, she must confront her deepest fears and desires. With its haunting prose and spine-tingling suspense, "Does It Hurt?" is a must-read for fans of psychological dark romance.

”Wicked Words” an audiobook on the Dipsea app: When celebrity biographer Adrienne Stone's father passes away, he leaves the family estate to her reckless brother. But her brother, burned by his debts, is forced to sell it to notorious tech mogul, Alexander Blackwood. In a twist of fate, Adrienne finds herself agreeing to write Alexander's biography and, despite their initial animosity, she discovers a man far different from what the headlines suggest. With its blend of intrigue, passion, and unexpected twists, "Wicked Words" will keep you enthralled from start to finish.

### Trigger warnings and critiques of dark romance
There are a few critiques of dark romance and dark fantasy that often come up.

Some people argue that this subgenre romanticizes and glorifies toxic relationships and unhealthy behaviors. There's a concern that readers, especially younger ones, might internalize these problematic dynamics and view them as desirable or acceptable in real life. 

Critics also point out that the power imbalances and non-consensual elements in many dark romance stories can be triggering or harmful to readers who have experienced trauma or abuse. There's a fine line between exploring these themes in a fictional setting and glamorizing them, and some believe that dark romance writers cross that line. 

However, at Dipsea we think that dark romance provides a safe space to explore these darker themes and fantasies without real-world consequences. And we’re confident that readers are capable of distinguishing between fiction and reality. Ultimately, as with any genre, it's up to individuals to decide what they're comfortable with.

In most dark romance books, there are trigger warnings which will tell you what to expect beforehand. If you’re worried about encountering content that disturbing or upsetting, make sure you read these warnings ahead of time!

### Explore the dark side of romance
Fiction plays a unique role in everyone’s lives and we’re not here to shame you! 

If you have a fresh download on your Kindle or are browsing Amazon listings, you can check trigger warnings and content warnings on Goodreads. 

If you’re listening on a spicy audiobook platform like Dipsea, you can get all the information you need in the tags before you press play.


Safely explore the dark side of romance books by learning what dark romance is, common tropes and trigger warnings, and what to expect from this spicy genre.

What is Dark Romance?

What is Dark Romance? Tropes, trigger warnings, and book recs

We all have a person that just…bothers us. They’re annoying, frustrating, and sometimes rude. Or maybe they’re perfectly nice and that makes us even MORE annoyed because we can’t figure out why we don’t like them. Then suddenly everything changes. And mayyyyybe that sworn enemy isn’t that bad after all. 

[Enemies-to-lovers](https://www.tiktok.com/discover/enemies-to-lovers-books?lang=en) books serve up all the laughs, steam, and emotions we’ve come to love from romance books with a hefty serving of tension, annoyance, angst, irritation, and chemistry. These characters have found one of life’s rarest gifts—true love!—and they’re ANNOYED by it because WHY did it have to be THIS person?? 

The enemies-to-lovers trope brings a “who did this to you?” energy—they can pick on you and rile you up but no one else can—that’s irresistible. There’s just something poetic and hopeful about the idea that your greatest nemesis can become your greatest ally and protector at the drop of a hat. 

The joy is in the journey, not the destination, so grab your popcorn and prepare to witness the sparks fly with 13 of the best enemies-to-lovers romance stories packed with love, hate, and everything in between.

## 1. “Red, White & Royal Blue” by Casey McQuiston
![Red-White-Royal-Blue-by-Casey-McQuiston-small](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/6FpuzJ2sLqPIWMXmArGool/7be991226281a76d5a717b51719eb7da/Red-White-Royal-Blue-by-Casey-McQuiston.jpg)
Alex is the first son of the president of the United States and Henry is the prince of England. The story picks up a few years after Alex and Henry’s first chilly meeting and things haven’t gotten any friendlier between them.

Things come to a head at Henry’s brother’s wedding, when a misunderstanding sends Alex and Henry to the floor covered in wedding cake. To help smooth things over, the pair are forced to go on a press tour to show the world that they’re actually friends, and they develop a tentative friendship. 

Told from Alex’s POV, we get a front row seat as he [figures out his sexuality](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/how-to-tell-if-youre-bi/) and whether love is worth risking it all. It’s sweet, it’s funny, and I’m obsessed with how much these two love each other. And while, in my opinion, books are always better than the movie, this adaptation on Amazon Prime is phenomenal. Plus, there’s a movie sequel coming!

## 2. “Beach Read” by Emily Henry
![Beach-Read-by-Emily-Henry-small](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/4TXq4KRNFC8ujGj2CNh0GM/94919a3c27ec5d760e14020f7e19849f/Beach-Read-by-Emily-Henry.jpg)
In college, January and Gus were rivals. But that was a while ago, and she hasn’t thought about him since. Well…not that much. Only when she sees his books on the shelves of bookstores everywhere while *hers* aren’t taken as seriously since they’re romance (cue eye roll—ROMANCE IS SERIOUS!). 

January is on deadline to deliver another happy beach read rom com love story but she’s struggling with losing her dad AND coming to terms that her dad was having an affair. She goes to the lake house he owned (and she didn’t know about) to try to process everything. 

Her next door neighbor? None other than broody, infuriating Gus. Like, she’s trying to GRIEVE and here is her RIVAL. Can she not get a moment of peace? They sort of bury the hatchet but forever the rivals, they challenge one another to a writing competition. As they spend more time together, we learn bits about each of their pasts, the times their paths crossed in college, and what they’ve been up to since. It’s funny, it’s sad, it’s steamy—it’s a perfect beach read.

## 3. “The Spanish Love Deception” by Elena Armas
![The-Spanish-Love-Deception-by-Elena-Armas-small](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/5aUMeNLZq67pgRlZKOfOJm/0ac46341d2f30e9ae69c976b7caa5581/The-Spanish-Love-Deception-by-Elena-Armas.jpg)
Lina is in a bit of a predicament: She’s supposed to be traveling from New York to her sister’s wedding in Spain with her American boyfriend in a few weeks. The only problem? The “American boyfriend” was a little white lie that spiraled out of control. Now she has to find a date or risk being embarrassed in front of friends and family.

Enter Aaron Blackford, coworker and workplace nemesis who she’s had bad blood with since her first day. Aaron overhears Lina’s plight and offers to be her date, allowing her to save face with her family. It’s got fake dating, family drama, and stolen glances. You might have trouble putting this down—I stayed up until 3 a.m. reading this and had zero regrets.*

* OK, I did have regrets but only because I can’t bounce back from a sleepless night like I did in college! Learn from my mistakes and read this one at a reasonable hour OR make sure you have an XL coffee on hand.

## 4. “Wings of Winter” by Dipsea
![Wings-of-Winter-by-Dipsea-small](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/2LxXAy5azxnAxxZjuFVdRp/4b9e83e87037dca84edce1fc60a0137a/Wings-of-Winter-by-Dipsea.jpg)
A 13-part high fantasy romance with faeries? Sign me up! [Fantasy books and romantasy](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/what-is-romantasy/) are having a MOMENT (seriously, bookstores in my city opened up for a midnight release for Iron Flame!). “[Wings of Winter](https://www.dipseastories.com/series/wings-of-winter-series/)” centers around Rowan, a fae, who feels a magnetic, captivating, protective pull to you (yes, the story is told like you are the main character!) and he’s so annoyed about it. You’re dismissive and aren’t intimidated by him and he’s annoyed about that, too. 

It reminded me a lot of Edward and Bella from Twilight and how annoyed he was that he felt such a pull to her. So if a tortured immortal reluctantly falling in love with a human, all while fighting in a Hunger Games-esque battle, sounds like something you might like, then you’re in for a treat with Wings of Winter. In this spicy audiobook, each part is about 20 minutes and let me tell you, it’s impossible to stop after just one!

Check out the [behind the scenes of how we made “Wings of Winter!”](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/the-making-of-wings-of-winter/)

## 5. “Brutal Prince” by Sophie Lark
![Brutal-Prince-by-Sophie-Lark-small](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/7FGewXraJZvfIMlODZU17c/b10bd51820f5c87a8cbab547e3ce0d44/Brutal-Prince-by-Sophie-Lark.jpg)
Coming from rival mafia families, Callum and Aida aren’t just enemies, they are ENEMIES. If the rivalry between their families wasn’t bad enough already, Aida makes things worse by setting a fire (it was small!) while crashing a party at Callum’s family home. 

Their families decide that the only way to stop a full-on crime war that would crush them all is to join forces. And what better way to marry their families than through the arranged marriage of Callum and Aida? 

Neither one is pleased and they are each hellbent on driving each other crazy. But if there’s one thing they didn’t count on, it’s how quickly their warfare turns into a game they both love. It’s got some dark moments and a serious plotline but it’s also not [as dark as some romances](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/what-is-dark-romance/) can get, making it a great entry-level mafia romance or dark romance novel.

## 6. “Reckless” by Elsie Silver
![Reckless-by-Elsie-Silver-small](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/2RkGQldd4ZeOYdlkZu7zKu/f3067d00d950af18ed63192eb9c7410a/Reckless-by-Elsie-Silver.jpg)
Winter is a true ice queen. I mean, her name is *literally* Winter. Theo is a bull rider who rattles her—and she *never* gets rattled. 

This might be the slow burn to end all slow burns, where the story fades to black in the beginning and then uses flashbacks to tell the story of their first fateful night together. There’s so much tension, emotion, growth, and healing that you’re rooting for literally everybody at the end: a perfectly executed enemies-to-lovers story.

## 7. “The Hating Game” by Sally Thorne
![The-Hating-Game-by-Sally-Thorne-new](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/3MBrjs5tnQwHbaVoUTtij4/0372b94e5a391a1f576ab6489c2a9b45/The-Hating-Game-by-Sally-Thorne.jpg)
What’s not to like about this book?? Lucy works in publishing (as book lovers, it’s so fun to dive into the book world in books!) and used to have her dream job until a stupid merger left her stuck working with Josh, who is sterile, uptight, and curt. 

She’s about to like him even less, because they’re competing for the same job and she refuses to lose to him. But as they spend more time together, she starts to see Josh might be a human underneath all that icy indifference. 

This book has competition, workplace drama, family drama, angst, a splash of fake dating, steam, and moments that make you want to kick your feet screaming, “eeeeeeeeek.” It’s joy in book form. Run, don’t walk.

## 8. “Love on the Brain” by Ali Hazelwood
![Love-on-the-Brain-by-Ali-Hazelwood-small](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/2VG6DYyrkjMjkcMCiAMgL5/7b3c8679faea37b92afdf8e152e7169d/Love-on-the-Brain-by-Ali-Hazelwood.jpg)
Bea and Levi have had beef (well, Impossible Beef, since Bea is vegan) since grad school but she hopes they can bury the hatchet as they team up for a dream project at NASA. But things in Houston aren’t all sunshine and roses, because Levi is as adversarial as ever. He even takes the only vegan donut!! Who even does that!!! 

Ali Hazelwood is the queen of writing women in STEM and the men they hate to love. This book is no exception. It’s funny, silly, and will have you swooning (and wondering if your work rival is actually the love of your life).

## 9. “The Fake Out” by Stephanie Archer
![The-Fake-Out-by-Stephanie-Archer-small](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/1ZD515y3syBpJC7Ph8XJvQ/9b724154df8201f77c5639232ed3c012/The-Fake-Out-by-Stephanie-Archer.jpg)
Hazel’s a physical therapist for a professional hockey team. Rory’s the NHL badboy who just got traded to the team. Hazel was Rory’s tutor in high school, so they already have awkward and antagonistic feelings when PLOT TWIST, Hazel’s icky high school ex-boyfriend gets traded to the team (side note—how do so many people from one high school land on the same professional hockey team?). 

Hazel fakes being in a relationship with Rory to make the ex jealous and she learns that underneath his tough-guy exterior, he’s got a heart of gold. If you’re a fan of Nathan and Haley from One Tree Hill and Taylor Swift’s “I Can Fix Him (No Really I Can),” then this book recommendation is a must-read.

## 10. “You, with a View” by Jessica Joyce
![You-with-a-View-by-Jessica-Joyce-small](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/8M2gyr4v0VcoksTA03IYx/3ebaad054a054aff6b25201a552b8a20/You-with-a-View-by-Jessica-Joyce.jpg)
Noelle is down on her luck and living at home (look, we’ve all done it, there’s no shame there!) after a layoff. She took all the right steps and STILL ended up jobless, dejected, wondering how she can feel sad about losing a job she didn’t even like to begin with, and panicking. She’s also grieving the loss of her grandmother, who was her closest confidant. Safe to say, our girl is in crisis. 

Noelle learns her grandmother had a fiancé Noelle knew nothing about. After finding a photograph and love letter from her grandmother to a former fiancé, Noelle makes a TikTok in search of her gran’s mystery man. She finds him (yay!) but also finds herself face-to-face with Theo, her high school nemesis…and mystery man’s grandson. He has an incredibly flourishing life that she’s not at all jealous of! 

The unlikely trio embark on a road trip, leading to lots of tension and sparring between Noelle and Theo. This is a textbook rivals-to-lovers story that’s funny, witty, spicy, sad, and heartbreakingly beautiful.

## 11. “Things We Left Behind” by Lucy Score
![Things-We-Left-Behind-by-Lucy-Score-small](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/11XgX7JiquXh32yufKEUC9/67654ecae428c8817b2068590908ba3c/Things-We-Left-Behind-by-Lucy-Score.jpg)
Don’t let the flowers on the cover fool you: This book has some serious drama. Sloane and Lucian were close in high school, then *Something* happened and they’ve hated each other ever since. 

Sloane is the human equivalent of sunshine and Lucian is…well, Sloane calls him Lucifer, so naturally these two get along like oil and water. Can they go back to the friendship they used to have or are they destined to hate each other for all time? 

If you like small town, dramatic, second chance, grumpy/sunshine, steamy stories with a side of criminal drama, then this one’s for you. This book is the third in the “Knockemout” series that all takes place in the same small town, but it can be read on its own. You could also check out “Things We Never Got Over” and “Things We Hide from the Light” first if you want to fully immerse yourself in the town of Knockemout.

## 12. “The Unhoneymooners” by Christina Lauren
![The-Unhoneymooners-by-Christina-Lauren-small](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/7EXgNVikUw1tgf1x1f7BZ9/ad1ef0b46b28e4cef1c61c7ed171a025/The-Unhoneymooners-by-Christina-Lauren.jpg)
Olive’s the maid of honor, Ethan’s the best man and they Do Not get along. A tale as old as time! In a cruel twist of fate (or more accurately, a cruel case of food poisoning that spares only them) they have to go on the honeymoon together as stand-ins for the happy couple. Not ideal, but putting up with Ethan is worth it for a free trip to Hawaii, right? Wrong! 

Olive and Ethan immediately run into Olive’s new boss. Desperate to start her new job off on the right foot, she convinces Ethan, her sworn nemesis, to pretend to be her doting new husband. To her shock, he agrees. Let the games begin!

## 13. “Twisted Hate” by Ana Huang
![Twisted-Hate-by-Ana-Huang-small](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/5BXntiy3dszinSqBdh0JMh/088a585fab9c170b8ec0028eb3372c4b/Twisted-Hate-by-Ana-Huang.jpg)
Josh and Jules have been at each other’s throats from the moment they met. He’s her best friend’s brother. They’re both smart, competitive, and driven. On paper, they should be friends but to each other, they’re public enemy number one. 

After one night together that they definitely *didn’t* hate, they decide to be ~~friends~~ enemies with benefits. How could this go wrong? 

This book is interconnected with the others in the series, but it’s a standalone story. “Twisted Hate” (and the whole “Twisted” series) flirts with some of the elements of dark romance without being too dark and scary.

__If you liked these book recs, check out more [spicy enemies-to-lovers audiobooks](https://www.dipseastories.com/tags/enemies-to-lovers-tag/) on the Dipsea app.__

We all have a person that just…bothers us. They’re annoying, frustrating, and sometimes rude. Or maybe they’re perfectly nice and that makes us even MORE annoyed because we can’t figure out why we don’t like them. Then suddenly everything changes. And mayyyyybe that sworn enemy isn’t that bad after all. 

[Enemies-to-lovers](https://www.tiktok.com/discover/enemies-to-lovers-books?lang=en) books serve up all the laughs, steam, and emotions we’ve come to love from romance books with a hefty serving of tension, annoyance, angst, irritation, and chemistry. These characters have found one of life’s rarest gifts—true love!—and they’re ANNOYED by it because WHY did it have to be THIS person?? 

The enemies-to-lovers trope brings a “who did this to you?” energy—they can pick on you and rile you up but no one else can—that’s irresistible. There’s just something poetic and hopeful about the idea that your greatest nemesis can become your greatest ally and protector at the drop of a hat. 

The joy is in the journey, not the destination, so grab your popcorn and prepare to witness the sparks fly with 13 of the best enemies-to-lovers romance stories packed with love, hate, and everything in between.

## 1. “Red, White & Royal Blue” by Casey McQuiston
![Red-White-Royal-Blue-by-Casey-McQuiston-small](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/6FpuzJ2sLqPIWMXmArGool/7be991226281a76d5a717b51719eb7da/Red-White-Royal-Blue-by-Casey-McQuiston.jpg)
Alex is the first son of the president of the United States and Henry is the prince of England. The story picks up a few years after Alex and Henry’s first chilly meeting and things haven’t gotten any friendlier between them.

Things come to a head at Henry’s brother’s wedding, when a misunderstanding sends Alex and Henry to the floor covered in wedding cake. To help smooth things over, the pair are forced to go on a press tour to show the world that they’re actually friends, and they develop a tentative friendship. 

Told from Alex’s POV, we get a front row seat as he [figures out his sexuality](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/how-to-tell-if-youre-bi/) and whether love is worth risking it all. It’s sweet, it’s funny, and I’m obsessed with how much these two love each other. And while, in my opinion, books are always better than the movie, this adaptation on Amazon Prime is phenomenal. Plus, there’s a movie sequel coming!

## 2. “Beach Read” by Emily Henry
![Beach-Read-by-Emily-Henry-small](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/4TXq4KRNFC8ujGj2CNh0GM/94919a3c27ec5d760e14020f7e19849f/Beach-Read-by-Emily-Henry.jpg)
In college, January and Gus were rivals. But that was a while ago, and she hasn’t thought about him since. Well…not that much. Only when she sees his books on the shelves of bookstores everywhere while *hers* aren’t taken as seriously since they’re romance (cue eye roll—ROMANCE IS SERIOUS!). 

January is on deadline to deliver another happy beach read rom com love story but she’s struggling with losing her dad AND coming to terms that her dad was having an affair. She goes to the lake house he owned (and she didn’t know about) to try to process everything. 

Her next door neighbor? None other than broody, infuriating Gus. Like, she’s trying to GRIEVE and here is her RIVAL. Can she not get a moment of peace? They sort of bury the hatchet but forever the rivals, they challenge one another to a writing competition. As they spend more time together, we learn bits about each of their pasts, the times their paths crossed in college, and what they’ve been up to since. It’s funny, it’s sad, it’s steamy—it’s a perfect beach read.

## 3. “The Spanish Love Deception” by Elena Armas
![The-Spanish-Love-Deception-by-Elena-Armas-small](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/5aUMeNLZq67pgRlZKOfOJm/0ac46341d2f30e9ae69c976b7caa5581/The-Spanish-Love-Deception-by-Elena-Armas.jpg)
Lina is in a bit of a predicament: She’s supposed to be traveling from New York to her sister’s wedding in Spain with her American boyfriend in a few weeks. The only problem? The “American boyfriend” was a little white lie that spiraled out of control. Now she has to find a date or risk being embarrassed in front of friends and family.

Enter Aaron Blackford, coworker and workplace nemesis who she’s had bad blood with since her first day. Aaron overhears Lina’s plight and offers to be her date, allowing her to save face with her family. It’s got fake dating, family drama, and stolen glances. You might have trouble putting this down—I stayed up until 3 a.m. reading this and had zero regrets.*

* OK, I did have regrets but only because I can’t bounce back from a sleepless night like I did in college! Learn from my mistakes and read this one at a reasonable hour OR make sure you have an XL coffee on hand.

## 4. “Wings of Winter” by Dipsea
![Wings-of-Winter-by-Dipsea-small](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/2LxXAy5azxnAxxZjuFVdRp/4b9e83e87037dca84edce1fc60a0137a/Wings-of-Winter-by-Dipsea.jpg)
A 13-part high fantasy romance with faeries? Sign me up! [Fantasy books and romantasy](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/what-is-romantasy/) are having a MOMENT (seriously, bookstores in my city opened up for a midnight release for Iron Flame!). “[Wings of Winter](https://www.dipseastories.com/series/wings-of-winter-series/)” centers around Rowan, a fae, who feels a magnetic, captivating, protective pull to you (yes, the story is told like you are the main character!) and he’s so annoyed about it. You’re dismissive and aren’t intimidated by him and he’s annoyed about that, too. 

It reminded me a lot of Edward and Bella from Twilight and how annoyed he was that he felt such a pull to her. So if a tortured immortal reluctantly falling in love with a human, all while fighting in a Hunger Games-esque battle, sounds like something you might like, then you’re in for a treat with Wings of Winter. In this spicy audiobook, each part is about 20 minutes and let me tell you, it’s impossible to stop after just one!

Check out the [behind the scenes of how we made “Wings of Winter!”](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/the-making-of-wings-of-winter/)

## 5. “Brutal Prince” by Sophie Lark
![Brutal-Prince-by-Sophie-Lark-small](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/7FGewXraJZvfIMlODZU17c/b10bd51820f5c87a8cbab547e3ce0d44/Brutal-Prince-by-Sophie-Lark.jpg)
Coming from rival mafia families, Callum and Aida aren’t just enemies, they are ENEMIES. If the rivalry between their families wasn’t bad enough already, Aida makes things worse by setting a fire (it was small!) while crashing a party at Callum’s family home. 

Their families decide that the only way to stop a full-on crime war that would crush them all is to join forces. And what better way to marry their families than through the arranged marriage of Callum and Aida? 

Neither one is pleased and they are each hellbent on driving each other crazy. But if there’s one thing they didn’t count on, it’s how quickly their warfare turns into a game they both love. It’s got some dark moments and a serious plotline but it’s also not [as dark as some romances](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/what-is-dark-romance/) can get, making it a great entry-level mafia romance or dark romance novel.

## 6. “Reckless” by Elsie Silver
![Reckless-by-Elsie-Silver-small](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/2RkGQldd4ZeOYdlkZu7zKu/f3067d00d950af18ed63192eb9c7410a/Reckless-by-Elsie-Silver.jpg)
Winter is a true ice queen. I mean, her name is *literally* Winter. Theo is a bull rider who rattles her—and she *never* gets rattled. 

This might be the slow burn to end all slow burns, where the story fades to black in the beginning and then uses flashbacks to tell the story of their first fateful night together. There’s so much tension, emotion, growth, and healing that you’re rooting for literally everybody at the end: a perfectly executed enemies-to-lovers story.

## 7. “The Hating Game” by Sally Thorne
![The-Hating-Game-by-Sally-Thorne-new](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/3MBrjs5tnQwHbaVoUTtij4/0372b94e5a391a1f576ab6489c2a9b45/The-Hating-Game-by-Sally-Thorne.jpg)
What’s not to like about this book?? Lucy works in publishing (as book lovers, it’s so fun to dive into the book world in books!) and used to have her dream job until a stupid merger left her stuck working with Josh, who is sterile, uptight, and curt. 

She’s about to like him even less, because they’re competing for the same job and she refuses to lose to him. But as they spend more time together, she starts to see Josh might be a human underneath all that icy indifference. 

This book has competition, workplace drama, family drama, angst, a splash of fake dating, steam, and moments that make you want to kick your feet screaming, “eeeeeeeeek.” It’s joy in book form. Run, don’t walk.

## 8. “Love on the Brain” by Ali Hazelwood
![Love-on-the-Brain-by-Ali-Hazelwood-small](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/2VG6DYyrkjMjkcMCiAMgL5/7b3c8679faea37b92afdf8e152e7169d/Love-on-the-Brain-by-Ali-Hazelwood.jpg)
Bea and Levi have had beef (well, Impossible Beef, since Bea is vegan) since grad school but she hopes they can bury the hatchet as they team up for a dream project at NASA. But things in Houston aren’t all sunshine and roses, because Levi is as adversarial as ever. He even takes the only vegan donut!! Who even does that!!! 

Ali Hazelwood is the queen of writing women in STEM and the men they hate to love. This book is no exception. It’s funny, silly, and will have you swooning (and wondering if your work rival is actually the love of your life).

## 9. “The Fake Out” by Stephanie Archer
![The-Fake-Out-by-Stephanie-Archer-small](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/1ZD515y3syBpJC7Ph8XJvQ/9b724154df8201f77c5639232ed3c012/The-Fake-Out-by-Stephanie-Archer.jpg)
Hazel’s a physical therapist for a professional hockey team. Rory’s the NHL badboy who just got traded to the team. Hazel was Rory’s tutor in high school, so they already have awkward and antagonistic feelings when PLOT TWIST, Hazel’s icky high school ex-boyfriend gets traded to the team (side note—how do so many people from one high school land on the same professional hockey team?). 

Hazel fakes being in a relationship with Rory to make the ex jealous and she learns that underneath his tough-guy exterior, he’s got a heart of gold. If you’re a fan of Nathan and Haley from One Tree Hill and Taylor Swift’s “I Can Fix Him (No Really I Can),” then this book recommendation is a must-read.

## 10. “You, with a View” by Jessica Joyce
![You-with-a-View-by-Jessica-Joyce-small](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/8M2gyr4v0VcoksTA03IYx/3ebaad054a054aff6b25201a552b8a20/You-with-a-View-by-Jessica-Joyce.jpg)
Noelle is down on her luck and living at home (look, we’ve all done it, there’s no shame there!) after a layoff. She took all the right steps and STILL ended up jobless, dejected, wondering how she can feel sad about losing a job she didn’t even like to begin with, and panicking. She’s also grieving the loss of her grandmother, who was her closest confidant. Safe to say, our girl is in crisis. 

Noelle learns her grandmother had a fiancé Noelle knew nothing about. After finding a photograph and love letter from her grandmother to a former fiancé, Noelle makes a TikTok in search of her gran’s mystery man. She finds him (yay!) but also finds herself face-to-face with Theo, her high school nemesis…and mystery man’s grandson. He has an incredibly flourishing life that she’s not at all jealous of! 

The unlikely trio embark on a road trip, leading to lots of tension and sparring between Noelle and Theo. This is a textbook rivals-to-lovers story that’s funny, witty, spicy, sad, and heartbreakingly beautiful.

## 11. “Things We Left Behind” by Lucy Score
![Things-We-Left-Behind-by-Lucy-Score-small](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/11XgX7JiquXh32yufKEUC9/67654ecae428c8817b2068590908ba3c/Things-We-Left-Behind-by-Lucy-Score.jpg)
Don’t let the flowers on the cover fool you: This book has some serious drama. Sloane and Lucian were close in high school, then *Something* happened and they’ve hated each other ever since. 

Sloane is the human equivalent of sunshine and Lucian is…well, Sloane calls him Lucifer, so naturally these two get along like oil and water. Can they go back to the friendship they used to have or are they destined to hate each other for all time? 

If you like small town, dramatic, second chance, grumpy/sunshine, steamy stories with a side of criminal drama, then this one’s for you. This book is the third in the “Knockemout” series that all takes place in the same small town, but it can be read on its own. You could also check out “Things We Never Got Over” and “Things We Hide from the Light” first if you want to fully immerse yourself in the town of Knockemout.

## 12. “The Unhoneymooners” by Christina Lauren
![The-Unhoneymooners-by-Christina-Lauren-small](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/7EXgNVikUw1tgf1x1f7BZ9/ad1ef0b46b28e4cef1c61c7ed171a025/The-Unhoneymooners-by-Christina-Lauren.jpg)
Olive’s the maid of honor, Ethan’s the best man and they Do Not get along. A tale as old as time! In a cruel twist of fate (or more accurately, a cruel case of food poisoning that spares only them) they have to go on the honeymoon together as stand-ins for the happy couple. Not ideal, but putting up with Ethan is worth it for a free trip to Hawaii, right? Wrong! 

Olive and Ethan immediately run into Olive’s new boss. Desperate to start her new job off on the right foot, she convinces Ethan, her sworn nemesis, to pretend to be her doting new husband. To her shock, he agrees. Let the games begin!


## 13. “Twisted Hate” by Ana Huang
![Twisted-Hate-by-Ana-Huang-small](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/5BXntiy3dszinSqBdh0JMh/088a585fab9c170b8ec0028eb3372c4b/Twisted-Hate-by-Ana-Huang.jpg)
Josh and Jules have been at each other’s throats from the moment they met. He’s her best friend’s brother. They’re both smart, competitive, and driven. On paper, they should be friends but to each other, they’re public enemy number one. 

After one night together that they definitely *didn’t* hate, they decide to be ~~friends~~ enemies with benefits. How could this go wrong? 

This book is interconnected with the others in the series, but it’s a standalone story. “Twisted Hate” (and the whole “Twisted” series) flirts with some of the elements of dark romance without being too dark and scary.

__If you liked these book recs, check out more [spicy enemies-to-lovers audiobooks](https://www.dipseastories.com/tags/enemies-to-lovers-tag/) on the Dipsea app.__

Your search for enemies-to-lovers books can stop here—we curated the perfect list for readers who can’t get enough of this romance trope.

13 enemies-to-lovers romance books that have everyone talking

EnemiesToLoversBlog

Like [BookTube](https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/booktube) and [Bookstagram](https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/bookstagram/?hl=en) before it, [BookTok](https://www.tiktok.com/tag/BookTok) is TikTok’s community of readers, and spicy BookTok focuses on romance books with extra steamy scenes. Spicy romance books have flooded BookTok accounts in droves (lucky us), but finding them isn’t always easy. How do you finesse the algorithm to steer clear of the milder romance novels and heap on the heat?

No matter how much smut you’re already accustomed to, trust us: There’s so much more, and the lovely creators on BookTok are eager to help you find it. There are hundreds of spicy BookTok books to scratch any itch, and there are a number of ways to curate your FYP (“for you page”) on TikTok to align with the preferences on your Goodreads profile. Thank us later, and prepare to overstock your Amazon wishlist with more [Hades and Persephone retellings](https://www.dipseastories.com/series/forbidden-fruit-series/) than your TBR can handle. A [Kindle unlimited account](https://www.amazon.com/Browse-Kindle-Unlimited-Books/b?ie=UTF8&node=9069934011) is highly recommended.

### Where do I start? 

BookTok is packed with book recommendations from sweetly steamy to downright filthy. Whatever you’re into, it helps to start by letting TikTok know that it’s spice you’re after in the first place. Some tags to follow are [#spicybooks](https://www.tiktok.com/tag/spicybooks), [#steamyreads](https://www.tiktok.com/tag/steamyreads), [#smuttok](https://www.tiktok.com/tag/smuttok), [#steamybooktok](https://www.tiktok.com/tag/steamybooktok), and #spicybooktok. More will emerge as you refine your preferences, but these are a great place to start. 

As with any element of TikTok, the algorithm will adjust to your tastes as you go. Even once it knows you enjoy an enemies-to-lovers contemporary workplace romance, you might find that you adore “Book Lovers” by Emily Henry and maybe aren’t so into “The Love Hypothesis” by Ali Hazelwood. The platform won’t know about your dislike for a fake dating trope until you’ve “liked” and “disliked” certain videos, so give it time. The app will learn. 

### Who should I follow? 

There are hundreds of accounts devoted to recommending and reviewing spicy reads, but if you’re new to this side of BookTok and want to become more involved, there are a handful of users to start following, beginning with the source: writers!

Plenty of authors join TikTok to promote their titles and engage with readers. Authors like Nisha Sharma ([@nishawrites](https://www.tiktok.com/@nishawrites)) write both adult and young adult romance (from “Dating Dr. Dil” to “The Letters We Keep”), while Sierra Simone ([@sierrasimone](https://www.tiktok.com/@thesierrasimone?lang=en)) and Katee Robert ([@authorkateerobert](https://www.tiktok.com/@authorkateerobert?lang=en)) fall strictly under “grown-ups only.” “American Queen” by Simone is perfect for anyone who thought “The West Wing” needed a lot more heat, and once you’ve read “Neon Gods” by Robert, you’ve got to check out [Forbidden Fruit](https://www.dipseastories.com/series/forbidden-fruit-series/), a spicy audiobook on the Dipsea app.

Carrie Aarons ([@authorcarriea](https://www.tiktok.com/@authorcarriea?lang=en)) has an endless list of contemporary, trope-riddled, and swoon-worthy romances (“Foes and Cons” is a favorite) while Ana Huang’s ([@authoranahuang](https://www.tiktok.com/@authoranahuang?lang=en)) “Twisted Love” is on the darker side—always remember to read the trigger warnings! 

Once you’re following your favorite authors, publishers are next. Companies like Entangled ([@entangledpub](https://www.tiktok.com/@entangledpub?lang=en)), Berkley ([@berkleypub](https://www.tiktok.com/@berkleypub?lang=en)), Bloom Books ([@read_bloom](https://www.tiktok.com/@read_bloom?lang=en)), and Harlequin ([@harlequinbooks](https://www.tiktok.com/@harlequinbooks?lang=en)) are all excellent about sharing news with their beloved BookTokers. Keep an eye on some of the giveaways and trends they like to kick off from time to time. You might learn how to get some books for free here and there. 

Not to be overlooked are the accounts that make BookTok so special, and that’s the readers themselves! Caroline ([@salty_caroline_reads](https://www.tiktok.com/@salty_caroline_reads?lang=en)) does a one-sentence reviews wrap-up at the end of every month, Kendra ([@kendra.reads](https://www.tiktok.com/@kendra.reads?lang=en)) co-hosts a romance book podcast called “Bring Your Own,” and no one dissects the latest page-to-screen adaptation like Ayman ([@aymansbooks](https://www.tiktok.com/@aymansbooks?lang=en)).

Kaven ([@kaven_books](https://www.tiktok.com/@kaven_books?lang=en)) and Maggie ([@maggiemaebereading](https://www.tiktok.com/@maggiemaebereading?lang=en)) are romantasy lovers who jump at the chance to gab about “A Court of Thorns and Roses” by Sarah J. Maas but are also on their way to becoming authors themselves. TikTok videos about their works in progress are interspersed with plenty of “here’s a book I read and loved.”

### What reads does spicy BookTok recommend? 

Depending on what you’re into, there’s a subgenre for everyone, and BookTok recommendations span every trope, no matter how specific. Better yet, plenty of them intersect for a, shall we say, well-rounded experience...

- __Historical romances__ popular on spicy BookTok include “Outlander” by Diana Gabaldon, the Bridgerton series by Julia Quinn, and Evie Dunmore’s books (Sebastian in “Bringing Down the Duke” is an *immaculate* book boyfriend).
- __Contemporary romances__ like “Icebreaker” by Hannah Grace, “The Deal” by Elle Kennedy, “The Kiss Quotient” by Helen Hoang, and “Twice in a Blue Moon” by Christina Lauren have all made the rounds across BookTok, and more pop up every week. 
- [__Dark romances__](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/what-is-dark-romance/) such as “Den of Vipers” K.A. Knight, “Black Sunshine” by Karina Halle, “Haunting Adeline” by H.D. Carlton, “Zodiac Academy” by Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti, and “Credence” by Penelope Douglas all come with a hefty set of trigger warnings, but many readers love the way these books explore intense themes.
- [__Fantasy romances__](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/romantasy-books/) (or romantasies) include “Fourth Wing” by Rebecca Yarros, “From Blood and Ash” by Jennifer L. Armentrout, “A Touch of Darkness” by Scarlett St. Clair, and “Rhapsodic” by Laura Thalassa, but this is far from an exhaustive list. [Moonshadowe Chronicles](https://www.dipseastories.com/series/moonshadowe-chronicles-series/) and [Wings of Winter](https://www.dipseastories.com/series/wings-of-winter-series/), two original spicy audiobooks on the Dipsea app, put gorgeous spins on this popular subgenre. 

### What trends should I look out for? 

One of the best ways to engage with spicy BookTok is to participate in one of its trends, which circulate through the community quickly! These are as easy and quick as a filter that tells you your favorite [praise phrase](https://www.dipseastories.com/tags/praise-kink-tag/) (sometimes the classic “good girl” needs a twist, no?) or as involved as a role-playing scene (no, not *that* kind) to go along with a quick sound bite about to go viral. 

The moment a sound starts getting popular, BookTok will find a way to make it about reading, so jump in if a trend resonates with you and you have an idea to put your own unique spin on it.

Some trends will appear around the time of a new book’s release. “Fourth Wing” definitely had its share of time on BookTok with audio clips like, “A dragon without its rider is a tragedy; [a rider without their dragon is dead](https://www.tiktok.com/music/Welcome-to-the-Fourth-Wing-7236062353995860778?lang=en),” and Sarah J. Maas’s second Crescent City book “House of Sky and Breath” had all of us in a chokehold with, “[Ruhn Danaan, crown prince of the Valbaran fae](https://www.tiktok.com/music/sunet-original-7004921150409034501?lang=en).” (He needs his own book, *ASAP*.) 

Many BookTokers also do weekly or monthly round-ups sharing what they read, so pay close attention on the weekends and around the start of a new month for their recs. This is also a great time to pop into the comments! What have you read that they might like? What’s on their TBR that’s also on yours? Engagement with these videos helps continue to train the algorithm to show you more of what you want.

### Explore and have fun!

Spicy BookTok is as varied as the books and readers involved, and as soon as you’ve gotten a sense of what you’re after, TikTok will help sort out the rest and keep you in the circles you love most.

If you like the sound of the steamier side of BookTok, [check out Dipsea](https://www.dipseastories.com/subscribe/), the app for spicy audiobooks. Made by professional writers and top-tier narrators, each story will sweep you off your feet.

Like [BookTube](https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/booktube) and [Bookstagram](https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/bookstagram/?hl=en) before it, [BookTok](https://www.tiktok.com/tag/BookTok) is TikTok’s community of readers, and spicy BookTok focuses on romance books with extra steamy scenes. Spicy romance books have flooded BookTok accounts in droves (lucky us), but finding them isn’t always easy. How do you finesse the algorithm to steer clear of the milder romance novels and heap on the heat?

No matter how much smut you’re already accustomed to, trust us: There’s so much more, and the lovely creators on BookTok are eager to help you find it. There are hundreds of spicy BookTok books to scratch any itch, and there are a number of ways to curate your FYP (“for you page”) on TikTok to align with the preferences on your Goodreads profile. Thank us later, and prepare to overstock your Amazon wishlist with more [Hades and Persephone retellings](https://www.dipseastories.com/series/forbidden-fruit-series/) than your TBR can handle. A [Kindle unlimited account](https://www.amazon.com/Browse-Kindle-Unlimited-Books/b?ie=UTF8&node=9069934011) is highly recommended.

### Where do I start? 

BookTok is packed with book recommendations from sweetly steamy to downright filthy. Whatever you’re into, it helps to start by letting TikTok know that it’s spice you’re after in the first place. Some tags to follow are [#spicybooks](https://www.tiktok.com/tag/spicybooks), [#steamyreads](https://www.tiktok.com/tag/steamyreads), [#smuttok](https://www.tiktok.com/tag/smuttok), [#steamybooktok](https://www.tiktok.com/tag/steamybooktok), and #spicybooktok. More will emerge as you refine your preferences, but these are a great place to start. 

As with any element of TikTok, the algorithm will adjust to your tastes as you go. Even once it knows you enjoy an enemies-to-lovers contemporary workplace romance, you might find that you adore “Book Lovers” by Emily Henry and maybe aren’t so into “The Love Hypothesis” by Ali Hazelwood. The platform won’t know about your dislike for a fake dating trope until you’ve “liked” and “disliked” certain videos, so give it time. The app will learn. 

### Who should I follow? 

There are hundreds of accounts devoted to recommending and reviewing spicy reads, but if you’re new to this side of BookTok and want to become more involved, there are a handful of users to start following, beginning with the source: writers!

Plenty of authors join TikTok to promote their titles and engage with readers. Authors like Nisha Sharma ([@nishawrites](https://www.tiktok.com/@nishawrites)) write both adult and young adult romance (from “Dating Dr. Dil” to “The Letters We Keep”), while Sierra Simone ([@sierrasimone](https://www.tiktok.com/@thesierrasimone?lang=en)) and Katee Robert ([@authorkateerobert](https://www.tiktok.com/@authorkateerobert?lang=en)) fall strictly under “grown-ups only.” “American Queen” by Simone is perfect for anyone who thought “The West Wing” needed a lot more heat, and once you’ve read “Neon Gods” by Robert, you’ve got to check out [Forbidden Fruit](https://www.dipseastories.com/series/forbidden-fruit-series/), a spicy audiobook on the Dipsea app.

Carrie Aarons ([@authorcarriea](https://www.tiktok.com/@authorcarriea?lang=en)) has an endless list of contemporary, trope-riddled, and swoon-worthy romances (“Foes and Cons” is a favorite) while Ana Huang’s ([@authoranahuang](https://www.tiktok.com/@authoranahuang?lang=en)) “Twisted Love” is on the darker side—always remember to read the trigger warnings! 

Once you’re following your favorite authors, publishers are next. Companies like Entangled ([@entangledpub](https://www.tiktok.com/@entangledpub?lang=en)), Berkley ([@berkleypub](https://www.tiktok.com/@berkleypub?lang=en)), Bloom Books ([@read_bloom](https://www.tiktok.com/@read_bloom?lang=en)), and Harlequin ([@harlequinbooks](https://www.tiktok.com/@harlequinbooks?lang=en)) are all excellent about sharing news with their beloved BookTokers. Keep an eye on some of the giveaways and trends they like to kick off from time to time. You might learn how to get some books for free here and there. 

Not to be overlooked are the accounts that make BookTok so special, and that’s the readers themselves! Caroline ([@salty_caroline_reads](https://www.tiktok.com/@salty_caroline_reads?lang=en)) does a one-sentence reviews wrap-up at the end of every month, Kendra ([@kendra.reads](https://www.tiktok.com/@kendra.reads?lang=en)) co-hosts a romance book podcast called “Bring Your Own,” and no one dissects the latest page-to-screen adaptation like Ayman ([@aymansbooks](https://www.tiktok.com/@aymansbooks?lang=en)).

Kaven ([@kaven_books](https://www.tiktok.com/@kaven_books?lang=en)) and Maggie ([@maggiemaebereading](https://www.tiktok.com/@maggiemaebereading?lang=en)) are romantasy lovers who jump at the chance to gab about “A Court of Thorns and Roses” by Sarah J. Maas but are also on their way to becoming authors themselves. TikTok videos about their works in progress are interspersed with plenty of “here’s a book I read and loved.”

### What reads does spicy BookTok recommend? 

Depending on what you’re into, there’s a subgenre for everyone, and BookTok recommendations span every trope, no matter how specific. Better yet, plenty of them intersect for a, shall we say, well-rounded experience...

- __Historical romances__ popular on spicy BookTok include “Outlander” by Diana Gabaldon, the Bridgerton series by Julia Quinn, and Evie Dunmore’s books (Sebastian in “Bringing Down the Duke” is an *immaculate* book boyfriend).
- __Contemporary romances__ like “Icebreaker” by Hannah Grace, “The Deal” by Elle Kennedy, “The Kiss Quotient” by Helen Hoang, and “Twice in a Blue Moon” by Christina Lauren have all made the rounds across BookTok, and more pop up every week. 
- [__Dark romances__](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/what-is-dark-romance/) such as “Den of Vipers” K.A. Knight, “Black Sunshine” by Karina Halle, “Haunting Adeline” by H.D. Carlton, “Zodiac Academy” by Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti, and “Credence” by Penelope Douglas all come with a hefty set of trigger warnings, but many readers love the way these books explore intense themes.
- [__Fantasy romances__](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/romantasy-books/) (or romantasies) include “Fourth Wing” by Rebecca Yarros, “From Blood and Ash” by Jennifer L. Armentrout, “A Touch of Darkness” by Scarlett St. Clair, and “Rhapsodic” by Laura Thalassa, but this is far from an exhaustive list. [Moonshadowe Chronicles](https://www.dipseastories.com/series/moonshadowe-chronicles-series/) and [Wings of Winter](https://www.dipseastories.com/series/wings-of-winter-series/), two original spicy audiobooks on the Dipsea app, put gorgeous spins on this popular subgenre. 

### What trends should I look out for? 

One of the best ways to engage with spicy BookTok is to participate in one of its trends, which circulate through the community quickly! These are as easy and quick as a filter that tells you your favorite [praise phrase](https://www.dipseastories.com/tags/praise-kink-tag/) (sometimes the classic “good girl” needs a twist, no?) or as involved as a role-playing scene (no, not *that* kind) to go along with a quick sound bite about to go viral. 

The moment a sound starts getting popular, BookTok will find a way to make it about reading, so jump in if a trend resonates with you and you have an idea to put your own unique spin on it.

Some trends will appear around the time of a new book’s release. “Fourth Wing” definitely had its share of time on BookTok with audio clips like, “A dragon without its rider is a tragedy; [a rider without their dragon is dead](https://www.tiktok.com/music/Welcome-to-the-Fourth-Wing-7236062353995860778?lang=en),” and Sarah J. Maas’s second Crescent City book “House of Sky and Breath” had all of us in a chokehold with, “[Ruhn Danaan, crown prince of the Valbaran fae](https://www.tiktok.com/music/sunet-original-7004921150409034501?lang=en).” (He needs his own book, *ASAP*.) 

Many BookTokers also do weekly or monthly round-ups sharing what they read, so pay close attention on the weekends and around the start of a new month for their recs. This is also a great time to pop into the comments! What have you read that they might like? What’s on their TBR that’s also on yours? Engagement with these videos helps continue to train the algorithm to show you more of what you want.

### Explore and have fun!

Spicy BookTok is as varied as the books and readers involved, and as soon as you’ve gotten a sense of what you’re after, TikTok will help sort out the rest and keep you in the circles you love most.

If you like the sound of the steamier side of BookTok, [check out Dipsea](https://www.dipseastories.com/subscribe/), the app for spicy audiobooks. Made by professional writers and top-tier narrators, each story will sweep you off your feet.

Jump into the dreamiest corner of TikTok: spicy BookTok! We’ll introduce you to the best creators and book recs and help you make the algorithm work for you.

Spicy BookTok 101: Who to follow + what to read

SpicyBookTok

Your all-access pass to the creative inspiration behind your favorite Dipsea stories, books, and characters. From first drafts to final chapters, tropes and archetypes, get the story behind the spicy story, and meet the team building the next-gen of romance.

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