## Dangerous by Design: The Complex Heroines Driving Dark Romance

Dark romance has long moved past the days of passive FMCs waiting to be saved—or corrupted. Today's most compelling female leads are complex characters who navigate dangerous waters with agency, intelligence, and their own moral complexity. These women aren't just enduring their dark heroes; they're matching them beat for beat in a dangerous dance of power, desire, and self-discovery.

### Nora Sutherlin from The Siren
![the-siren-dark-romance-heroines ](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/52FTSFV0hv7kUv07Vn9cye/6e8c515b4bf2541b357b7a97defb2a2f/71xNY9EyQdL._SL1500_.jpg)
Tiffany Reisz's Nora demolishes the stereotype of the innocent heroine. As an erotica author and professional dominatrix, she wields both sexual and intellectual power with confidence. What makes her fascinating isn't just her provocative lifestyle, but her unapologetic ownership of her desires and choices. She shows that embracing one's darkness can be an act of empowerment rather than corruption.

### Poppy from Priest
![Priest-content](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/5eatOcLgQc8Yqj4SW3aTnq/7cb25af0b9132de763d174c219ba54f9/Priest-content.jpeg)
Sierra Simone gives us a heroine who actively pursues her desires, even when they conflict with societal and religious norms. What makes Poppy compelling isn't just her attraction to the forbidden, but her refusal to be shamed by it. Her journey demonstrates that female desire, even at its most taboo, doesn't need justification or redemption. She owns her sexuality while maintaining her agency, proving that submission can be a form of power.

### Lily Bloom from It Ends with Us
![it-ends-with-us-dark-romance-heroines](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/4Rfq8FEE8X9AcGeXgFNt8o/5dd8b8408c670695eadeffb7453a2502/91CqNElQaKL._AC_UF1000_1000_QL80_.jpg)
Colleen Hoover crafts a heroine whose strength lies in her ability to make difficult choices. Lily's journey isn't about being saved by love—it's about saving herself. Her character demonstrates that true strength often means walking away from toxic situations, even when desire and history pull us to stay. She challenges the genre's tendency to romanticize problematic relationships by showing that self-respect can be more powerful than passion.

### Vanessa from The Hunt
![dipsea-glow-wordmark](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/4tzj6bITUPO7yKBzSgbS4g/3fcd305cf94fe68b1ad79648116cc233/Glow_-_Wordmark.png)
Dipsea's newest dark romance heroine subverts expectations through her calculated risk-taking and strategic surrender. Initially drawn into a dangerous supernatural world while searching for her missing sister, Vanessa demonstrates that vulnerability can be a choice—and sometimes a weapon. What makes her compelling isn't her ability to withstand danger, but how she deliberately navigates it, using her apparent powerlessness as a tool to gain deeper access to a world that holds the answers she seeks.

### Why They Matter
These characters resonate because they reflect a more nuanced understanding of power dynamics in relationships. They show that strength comes in many forms—sometimes in resistance, sometimes in calculated submission, and often in knowing the difference.

The most fascinating dark romance heroines aren't those who simply endure darkness—they're the ones who learn to navigate it, understand it, and sometimes even command it. Whether they're pursuing justice like Vanessa, reclaiming their agency like Lily, or challenging social norms like Nora and Poppy, these women prove that the most compelling stories happen when heroines are as complex and morally ambiguous as their dark heroes.

Their stories remind us that in the best dark romance, the heroine's journey isn't about being conquered or corrupted—it's about making conscious choices in morally complex situations while maintaining their essential sense of self. These women show us that true power often lies not in avoiding the darkness, but in learning to wield it on our own terms.


## Dangerous by Design: The Complex Heroines Driving Dark Romance

Dark romance has long moved past the days of passive FMCs waiting to be saved—or corrupted. Today's most compelling female leads are complex characters who navigate dangerous waters with agency, intelligence, and their own moral complexity. These women aren't just enduring their dark heroes; they're matching them beat for beat in a dangerous dance of power, desire, and self-discovery.

### Nora Sutherlin from The Siren
![the-siren-dark-romance-heroines ](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/52FTSFV0hv7kUv07Vn9cye/6e8c515b4bf2541b357b7a97defb2a2f/71xNY9EyQdL._SL1500_.jpg)
Tiffany Reisz's Nora demolishes the stereotype of the innocent heroine. As an erotica author and professional dominatrix, she wields both sexual and intellectual power with confidence. What makes her fascinating isn't just her provocative lifestyle, but her unapologetic ownership of her desires and choices. She shows that embracing one's darkness can be an act of empowerment rather than corruption.

### Poppy from Priest
![Priest-content](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/5eatOcLgQc8Yqj4SW3aTnq/7cb25af0b9132de763d174c219ba54f9/Priest-content.jpeg)
Sierra Simone gives us a heroine who actively pursues her desires, even when they conflict with societal and religious norms. What makes Poppy compelling isn't just her attraction to the forbidden, but her refusal to be shamed by it. Her journey demonstrates that female desire, even at its most taboo, doesn't need justification or redemption. She owns her sexuality while maintaining her agency, proving that submission can be a form of power.

### Lily Bloom from It Ends with Us
![it-ends-with-us-dark-romance-heroines](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/4Rfq8FEE8X9AcGeXgFNt8o/5dd8b8408c670695eadeffb7453a2502/91CqNElQaKL._AC_UF1000_1000_QL80_.jpg)
Colleen Hoover crafts a heroine whose strength lies in her ability to make difficult choices. Lily's journey isn't about being saved by love—it's about saving herself. Her character demonstrates that true strength often means walking away from toxic situations, even when desire and history pull us to stay. She challenges the genre's tendency to romanticize problematic relationships by showing that self-respect can be more powerful than passion.

### Vanessa from The Hunt
![dipsea-glow-wordmark](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/4tzj6bITUPO7yKBzSgbS4g/3fcd305cf94fe68b1ad79648116cc233/Glow_-_Wordmark.png)
Dipsea's newest dark romance heroine subverts expectations through her calculated risk-taking and strategic surrender. Initially drawn into a dangerous supernatural world while searching for her missing sister, Vanessa demonstrates that vulnerability can be a choice—and sometimes a weapon. What makes her compelling isn't her ability to withstand danger, but how she deliberately navigates it, using her apparent powerlessness as a tool to gain deeper access to a world that holds the answers she seeks.

### Why They Matter
These characters resonate because they reflect a more nuanced understanding of power dynamics in relationships. They show that strength comes in many forms—sometimes in resistance, sometimes in calculated submission, and often in knowing the difference.

The most fascinating dark romance heroines aren't those who simply endure darkness—they're the ones who learn to navigate it, understand it, and sometimes even command it. Whether they're pursuing justice like Vanessa, reclaiming their agency like Lily, or challenging social norms like Nora and Poppy, these women prove that the most compelling stories happen when heroines are as complex and morally ambiguous as their dark heroes.

Their stories remind us that in the best dark romance, the heroine's journey isn't about being conquered or corrupted—it's about making conscious choices in morally complex situations while maintaining their essential sense of self. These women show us that true power often lies not in avoiding the darkness, but in learning to wield it on our own terms.


Dark romance FMCs are no longer passive—they’re complex, powerful, and meet their heroes as equals in a thrilling dance of power, desire, and self-discovery.

The Complex Heroines Driving Dark Romance

dark-romance-heroines

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.

## Beyond the Bad Boy: Complex Heroes Who Challenge Dark Romance Tropes

The dark romance genre has evolved far beyond simple tales of dangerous men and the women who love them. Today's most compelling male leads challenge traditional power dynamics, exploring complex themes of consent, agency, and transformation. These characters invite us to examine what makes a "hero" in an increasingly nuanced landscape of desire and power.

### Julian Esguerra from Twist Me
![Twist Me-images](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/1XiCodpqbLnGLIUdM5j1AX/d3b9839a309fd94887468cdd0a342359/Twist_Me-images.jpeg)
Anna Zaires's Julian subverts expectations by forcing readers to confront uncomfortable questions about power, consent, and redemption. What makes him fascinating isn't just his darkness, but how his relationship challenges readers to examine their own boundaries and beliefs about love and control. His character arc demonstrates how dark romance can explore complex power dynamics while still acknowledging the problematic nature of such relationships.

### Tyler Bell from Priest
![Priest-content](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/5eatOcLgQc8Yqj4SW3aTnq/7cb25af0b9132de763d174c219ba54f9/Priest-content.jpeg)
Sierra Simone's Father Bell represents more than just forbidden desire—he embodies the tension between institutional power and personal truth. His journey questions the intersection of faith, sexuality, and autonomy. What makes Tyler compelling is how he navigates his crisis of faith while respecting his partner's agency, showing that even in power-imbalanced relationships, mutual respect and consent remain paramount.

### Michael Phan from The Heart Principle
![The Heart Principle-content](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/6se97gOag67UnsalVYwNXk/b6ee870efcfc87abaa02e992e2ba110a/The_Heart_Principle-content.jpeg)
Helen Hoang crafts a different kind of dark hero in Michael—one whose complexity stems from trauma rather than malice. His story challenges the genre's tendency to glamorize controlling behavior by exploring how past wounds shape present relationships. Michael demonstrates that vulnerability and emotional intelligence can be just as captivating as traditional displays of power.

### Nolan from The Hunt 
![dipsea-glow-wordmark](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/4tzj6bITUPO7yKBzSgbS4g/3fcd305cf94fe68b1ad79648116cc233/Glow_-_Wordmark.png)
Dipsea's newest dark romance hero upends supernatural tropes through his struggle with instinct versus choice. As a being of immense power, Nolan's most compelling trait isn't his ability to dominate, but his commitment to consent despite his primal urges. His journey explores how desire and restraint can coexist, and how true power often lies in the choice not to use it.

### What Makes These Heroes Complex
Modern dark romance heroes are evolving beyond simple dominance to explore:
- Conscious Power Exchange: Understanding the difference between consensual power dynamics and true abuse
- Emotional Intelligence: Showing that psychological depth is as important as physical strength
- Respect for Agency: Maintaining their darkness while honoring their partner's autonomy
- Growth Without Redemption: Evolving without losing their essential nature
- Self-Awareness: Acknowledging their own problematic aspects rather than being "reformed" by love

### Why They Matter
These characters resonate because they reflect evolving discussions about power, consent, and desire in modern relationships. They demonstrate that dark romance can explore taboo themes while still engaging thoughtfully with contemporary values and concerns.

The most compelling dark romance heroes aren't those who simply dominate—they're the ones who make us question our assumptions about power, consent, and the nature of desire itself. Whether they're wrestling with faith like Tyler, confronting trauma like Michael, or battling their own nature like Nolan, these characters show us that the most interesting struggles often happen in the gray areas between right and wrong, power and vulnerability, darkness and light.


## Beyond the Bad Boy: Complex Heroes Who Challenge Dark Romance Tropes

The dark romance genre has evolved far beyond simple tales of dangerous men and the women who love them. Today's most compelling male leads challenge traditional power dynamics, exploring complex themes of consent, agency, and transformation. These characters invite us to examine what makes a "hero" in an increasingly nuanced landscape of desire and power.

### Julian Esguerra from Twist Me
![Twist Me-images](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/1XiCodpqbLnGLIUdM5j1AX/d3b9839a309fd94887468cdd0a342359/Twist_Me-images.jpeg)
Anna Zaires's Julian subverts expectations by forcing readers to confront uncomfortable questions about power, consent, and redemption. What makes him fascinating isn't just his darkness, but how his relationship challenges readers to examine their own boundaries and beliefs about love and control. His character arc demonstrates how dark romance can explore complex power dynamics while still acknowledging the problematic nature of such relationships.

### Tyler Bell from Priest
![Priest-content](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/5eatOcLgQc8Yqj4SW3aTnq/7cb25af0b9132de763d174c219ba54f9/Priest-content.jpeg)
Sierra Simone's Father Bell represents more than just forbidden desire—he embodies the tension between institutional power and personal truth. His journey questions the intersection of faith, sexuality, and autonomy. What makes Tyler compelling is how he navigates his crisis of faith while respecting his partner's agency, showing that even in power-imbalanced relationships, mutual respect and consent remain paramount.

### Michael Phan from The Heart Principle
![The Heart Principle-content](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/6se97gOag67UnsalVYwNXk/b6ee870efcfc87abaa02e992e2ba110a/The_Heart_Principle-content.jpeg)
Helen Hoang crafts a different kind of dark hero in Michael—one whose complexity stems from trauma rather than malice. His story challenges the genre's tendency to glamorize controlling behavior by exploring how past wounds shape present relationships. Michael demonstrates that vulnerability and emotional intelligence can be just as captivating as traditional displays of power.

### Nolan from The Hunt 
![dipsea-glow-wordmark](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/4tzj6bITUPO7yKBzSgbS4g/3fcd305cf94fe68b1ad79648116cc233/Glow_-_Wordmark.png)
Dipsea's newest dark romance hero upends supernatural tropes through his struggle with instinct versus choice. As a being of immense power, Nolan's most compelling trait isn't his ability to dominate, but his commitment to consent despite his primal urges. His journey explores how desire and restraint can coexist, and how true power often lies in the choice not to use it.


### What Makes These Heroes Complex
Modern dark romance heroes are evolving beyond simple dominance to explore:
- Conscious Power Exchange: Understanding the difference between consensual power dynamics and true abuse
- Emotional Intelligence: Showing that psychological depth is as important as physical strength
- Respect for Agency: Maintaining their darkness while honoring their partner's autonomy
- Growth Without Redemption: Evolving without losing their essential nature
- Self-Awareness: Acknowledging their own problematic aspects rather than being "reformed" by love

### Why They Matter
These characters resonate because they reflect evolving discussions about power, consent, and desire in modern relationships. They demonstrate that dark romance can explore taboo themes while still engaging thoughtfully with contemporary values and concerns.

The most compelling dark romance heroes aren't those who simply dominate—they're the ones who make us question our assumptions about power, consent, and the nature of desire itself. Whether they're wrestling with faith like Tyler, confronting trauma like Michael, or battling their own nature like Nolan, these characters show us that the most interesting struggles often happen in the gray areas between right and wrong, power and vulnerability, darkness and light.


Today's most compelling male leads challenge traditional dark romance tropes, exploring complex themes of consent, agency, and transformation.

defying-dark-romance-tropes

Beyond the Bad Boy: Heroes Who Challenge Dark Romance Tropes

## 2024: A year of spicy audiobooks

In 2024, you turned to Dipsea for everything from [slow-burn romance](https://www.dipseastories.com/tags/slow-burn-tag/) to irresistible Scottish accents (hello, [Lachlan](https://www.dipseastories.com/characters/lachlan-category/)). Whether you were one of the night owls who made 10 PM our peak listening hour, or part of the crowd swooning over [British accents](https://www.dipseastories.com/tags/british-accent-tag/), you helped make this year's spiciest stories some of the most popular in the library. Let's unwrap the chapters that had 200,000+ listeners hitting replay, the audiobooks that kept you up "just one more chapter," and the characters who lived in your head rent free. 

### By the Numbers
5 million streams. 1,100 chapters. 235 hours of audio – that’s nearly 10 full days of non-stop listening. (Though we recommend taking breaks... staying hydrated is important.)

### Peak Hours
It turns out 10 PM to midnight is the sweet spot for Dipsea listeners. Whether you're winding down solo or heating things up with a partner, the twilight hours proved to be prime time for everybodies me time. 

## The Crowd Pleasers

### Top overall audiobook: Hometown
![Year in review blog 2024-1](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/5W46RJ0kDZkDYDM9foCRlq/ed03f3e21894db07c8d8981d5c52e1c4/Year_in_review_blog_2024-1.png)
Our reigning champion "[Hometown](https://www.dipseastories.com/series/hometown-series/)" proved that some flames never die out, racking up over 500K streams. With 29 chapters spanning nearly 6 hours, it's our longest-audiobook and shows no signs of cooling down. New to the neighborhood? Start with chapter 1 for Jack and Gia’s electric reunion, or skip straight to fan-favorite [Chapter 6: On the Countertop](https://www.dipseastories.com/chapters/hometown-6-on-the-countertop/) for that infamous shower scene (IYKYK) 

### The rookie MVP: The Highlander
![Year in review blog 2024-2](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/HIztJuDsxSdVjFUC91R8f/111bff42f984ac7a7940b19fb01c1d2f/Year_in_review_blog_2024-2.png)
2024 welcomed our first [Scottish accent](https://www.dipseastories.com/tags/scottish-accent-tag/) to the mix, and clearly, you were ready for it. "The Highlander" stormed onto the scene with over 200K streams across just 10 chapters. Ready to head to The Highlands? Check out Lachlan + You: Looking for Trouble or [Lachlan + You: Midnight Snack](https://www.dipseastories.com/chapters/lachlan-you-midnight-snack/)

### The Sapphic Star: The Ticket
![Year in review blog 2024-3](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/2D6lJmTns6meK5ja4hQ6eJ/419dbdafd6f01417f54eef30a8227fed/Year_in_review_blog_2024-3.png)
If you need proof that 2024 was a banner year for sapphics, you need to look no further than the meteoric rise of Chappell Roan. But it wasn’t just a big queer year on spotify, Dipsea was rolling out spicy new sapphic audiobooks at a record rate. The top new sapphic audiobook was Dipsea’s collaboration with romance author extraordinaire [Meryl Wilsner, The Detour](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/meryl-wilsner-brings-sapphic-summer-spice-to-dipsea/). But the top overall, comes from across the pond…this year [The Ticket](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/the-ticket-series/) earned 130k streams. 

### Favorite Slow Burn: Wings of Winter
![Year in review blog 2024-4](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/2HHAxGAZeCkNbVX33OlpRV/8584ebbf7a750b483eb1d29bc57c57fa/Year_in_review_blog_2024-4.png)
This enemies-to-lovers tale about a human and their mysterious fae companion had you embracing the slow burn. Whether you started with [Chapter 1: Feast of Fae](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/wings-of-winter-series/) to watch the tension build, or jumped straight to the spicy reunion scene in Rowan + You: In the Tent, this supernatural slow burn proved that crossing realms (and crossing boundaries) is even hotter when you take your time.

### Honorable Mention: Lecture Me
Almost 400K streams don't lie – apparently, everyone loves a sexy professor. "[Lecture Me](https://www.dipseastories.com/series/lecture-me-series/)" has been teaching us all about anticipation since 2019, making it our longest-running series to crack the top 10. With 26 chapters and over 5 hours of content, it's practically a master class in tension. New student? Start with Lecture Me 1: Extra Credit to see how it all began, or skip to James + You: Your Turn if you're ready for some... extra attention.

## Top Tracks 
While our audiobooks kept you coming back for more, these standalones proved that sometimes one chapter is all you need:

- __Most Streamed Overall:__ "[Boyfriend Begs for You](https://www.dipseastories.com/chapters/boyfriend-begs-for-you/)" (50K listens) - Who doesn’t love a little begging?
![Year in review blog 2024-6](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/5sLlMkrgq477eoTmI4Rnic/7eacd52b433d8c0f15592acbcff47fc1/Year_in_review_blog_2024-6.png)
- __Top "+ You" Experience:__ "[Ronan + You: Birthday Girl](https://www.dipseastories.com/chapters/ronan-you-birthday-girl/)" (23K listens) - Because sometimes it feels good to be treated like a princess..
![Year in review blog 2024-7](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/43Wy31suUqjER6Ox1KHhU2/be3f7a043e1dde77573e49db3ec3eb35/Year_in_review_blog_2024-7.png)
- __Top Sapphic Scene:__ "[Charlotte + Willa Overheard: The Ball](https://www.dipseastories.com/chapters/charlotte-willa-overheard-the-ball/)" (29K listens) - Historical romance is so hot right now
![Year in review blog 2024-8](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/J3FwNJDGIgidFOexkypS6/adf90ea59a2137eb8a8c56e114bdfe17/Year_in_review_blog_2024-8.png)

### Global Heat Map
From coast to coast and across the pond, Dipsea's heat map got interesting this year. Our top three cities showed they each have their own taste in spicy stories:

- __New York City__ topped our city charts, with "[Hometown 2: Gone Camping](https://www.dipseastories.com/chapters/hometown-2-gone-camping/)" as their most-streamed chapter. Looks like New Yorkers love escaping their concrete jungle for some outdoor adventure (especially when there's a British accent involved).
- __London__ came in second, showing particular love for hometown favorite "[Leather & Lace: Joining In.](https://www.dipseastories.com/chapters/leather-and-lace-1-joining-in/)" No surprise our British listeners gravitated to one of our spiciest London-based series.
- __Chicago__ rounded out our top three, with "[Lecture Me 2: No Talking in Class](https://www.dipseastories.com/chapters/lecture-me-2-no-talking-in-class/)" as their most-played chapter. The Windy City apparently has a thing for strict professors...

Speaking of accents, British voices dominated in 2024, with listeners marking almost 100K British-accented chapters as favorites. The most beloved? "Leather & Lace 1: Joining In" – proving that posh accents never go out of style.

And while cities brought the heat, California and Texas led the charge as our most active states. Guess everything really is bigger in Texas – including listening stats.

As we enter 2025, keep your eyes (and ears) peeled for rising stars like "[Dangerous Games](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/dangerous-games-series/)" and "[Off the Coast.](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/off-the-coast-series/)" If this year taught us anything, it's that Dipsea listeners know what they want – and they're not afraid to press play.

## 2024: A year of spicy audiobooks

In 2024, you turned to Dipsea for everything from [slow-burn romance](https://www.dipseastories.com/tags/slow-burn-tag/) to irresistible Scottish accents (hello, [Lachlan](https://www.dipseastories.com/characters/lachlan-category/)). Whether you were one of the night owls who made 10 PM our peak listening hour, or part of the crowd swooning over [British accents](https://www.dipseastories.com/tags/british-accent-tag/), you helped make this year's spiciest stories some of the most popular in the library. Let's unwrap the chapters that had 200,000+ listeners hitting replay, the audiobooks that kept you up "just one more chapter," and the characters who lived in your head rent free. 

### By the Numbers
5 million streams. 1,100 chapters. 235 hours of audio – that’s nearly 10 full days of non-stop listening. (Though we recommend taking breaks... staying hydrated is important.)

### Peak Hours
It turns out 10 PM to midnight is the sweet spot for Dipsea listeners. Whether you're winding down solo or heating things up with a partner, the twilight hours proved to be prime time for everybodies me time. 

## The Crowd Pleasers

### Top overall audiobook: Hometown
![Year in review blog 2024-1](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/5W46RJ0kDZkDYDM9foCRlq/ed03f3e21894db07c8d8981d5c52e1c4/Year_in_review_blog_2024-1.png)
Our reigning champion "[Hometown](https://www.dipseastories.com/series/hometown-series/)" proved that some flames never die out, racking up over 500K streams. With 29 chapters spanning nearly 6 hours, it's our longest-audiobook and shows no signs of cooling down. New to the neighborhood? Start with chapter 1 for Jack and Gia’s electric reunion, or skip straight to fan-favorite [Chapter 6: On the Countertop](https://www.dipseastories.com/chapters/hometown-6-on-the-countertop/) for that infamous shower scene (IYKYK) 

### The rookie MVP: The Highlander
![Year in review blog 2024-2](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/HIztJuDsxSdVjFUC91R8f/111bff42f984ac7a7940b19fb01c1d2f/Year_in_review_blog_2024-2.png)
2024 welcomed our first [Scottish accent](https://www.dipseastories.com/tags/scottish-accent-tag/) to the mix, and clearly, you were ready for it. "The Highlander" stormed onto the scene with over 200K streams across just 10 chapters. Ready to head to The Highlands? Check out Lachlan + You: Looking for Trouble or [Lachlan + You: Midnight Snack](https://www.dipseastories.com/chapters/lachlan-you-midnight-snack/)

### The Sapphic Star: The Ticket
![Year in review blog 2024-3](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/2D6lJmTns6meK5ja4hQ6eJ/419dbdafd6f01417f54eef30a8227fed/Year_in_review_blog_2024-3.png)
If you need proof that 2024 was a banner year for sapphics, you need to look no further than the meteoric rise of Chappell Roan. But it wasn’t just a big queer year on spotify, Dipsea was rolling out spicy new sapphic audiobooks at a record rate. The top new sapphic audiobook was Dipsea’s collaboration with romance author extraordinaire [Meryl Wilsner, The Detour](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/meryl-wilsner-brings-sapphic-summer-spice-to-dipsea/). But the top overall, comes from across the pond…this year [The Ticket](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/the-ticket-series/) earned 130k streams. 

### Favorite Slow Burn: Wings of Winter
![Year in review blog 2024-4](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/2HHAxGAZeCkNbVX33OlpRV/8584ebbf7a750b483eb1d29bc57c57fa/Year_in_review_blog_2024-4.png)
This enemies-to-lovers tale about a human and their mysterious fae companion had you embracing the slow burn. Whether you started with [Chapter 1: Feast of Fae](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/wings-of-winter-series/) to watch the tension build, or jumped straight to the spicy reunion scene in Rowan + You: In the Tent, this supernatural slow burn proved that crossing realms (and crossing boundaries) is even hotter when you take your time.

### Honorable Mention: Lecture Me
Almost 400K streams don't lie – apparently, everyone loves a sexy professor. "[Lecture Me](https://www.dipseastories.com/series/lecture-me-series/)" has been teaching us all about anticipation since 2019, making it our longest-running series to crack the top 10. With 26 chapters and over 5 hours of content, it's practically a master class in tension. New student? Start with Lecture Me 1: Extra Credit to see how it all began, or skip to James + You: Your Turn if you're ready for some... extra attention.

## Top Tracks 
While our audiobooks kept you coming back for more, these standalones proved that sometimes one chapter is all you need:

- __Most Streamed Overall:__ "[Boyfriend Begs for You](https://www.dipseastories.com/chapters/boyfriend-begs-for-you/)" (50K listens) - Who doesn’t love a little begging?
![Year in review blog 2024-6](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/5sLlMkrgq477eoTmI4Rnic/7eacd52b433d8c0f15592acbcff47fc1/Year_in_review_blog_2024-6.png)
- __Top "+ You" Experience:__ "[Ronan + You: Birthday Girl](https://www.dipseastories.com/chapters/ronan-you-birthday-girl/)" (23K listens) - Because sometimes it feels good to be treated like a princess..
![Year in review blog 2024-7](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/43Wy31suUqjER6Ox1KHhU2/be3f7a043e1dde77573e49db3ec3eb35/Year_in_review_blog_2024-7.png)
- __Top Sapphic Scene:__ "[Charlotte + Willa Overheard: The Ball](https://www.dipseastories.com/chapters/charlotte-willa-overheard-the-ball/)" (29K listens) - Historical romance is so hot right now
![Year in review blog 2024-8](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/J3FwNJDGIgidFOexkypS6/adf90ea59a2137eb8a8c56e114bdfe17/Year_in_review_blog_2024-8.png)

### Global Heat Map
From coast to coast and across the pond, Dipsea's heat map got interesting this year. Our top three cities showed they each have their own taste in spicy stories:

- __New York City__ topped our city charts, with "[Hometown 2: Gone Camping](https://www.dipseastories.com/chapters/hometown-2-gone-camping/)" as their most-streamed chapter. Looks like New Yorkers love escaping their concrete jungle for some outdoor adventure (especially when there's a British accent involved).
- __London__ came in second, showing particular love for hometown favorite "[Leather & Lace: Joining In.](https://www.dipseastories.com/chapters/leather-and-lace-1-joining-in/)" No surprise our British listeners gravitated to one of our spiciest London-based series.
- __Chicago__ rounded out our top three, with "[Lecture Me 2: No Talking in Class](https://www.dipseastories.com/chapters/lecture-me-2-no-talking-in-class/)" as their most-played chapter. The Windy City apparently has a thing for strict professors...

Speaking of accents, British voices dominated in 2024, with listeners marking almost 100K British-accented chapters as favorites. The most beloved? "Leather & Lace 1: Joining In" – proving that posh accents never go out of style.

And while cities brought the heat, California and Texas led the charge as our most active states. Guess everything really is bigger in Texas – including listening stats.

As we enter 2025, keep your eyes (and ears) peeled for rising stars like "[Dangerous Games](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/dangerous-games-series/)" and "[Off the Coast.](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/off-the-coast-series/)" If this year taught us anything, it's that Dipsea listeners know what they want – and they're not afraid to press play.

Dipsea Wrapped 2024: 5M streams, steamy accents, and slow burns that kept you listening. Discover this year’s top audiobooks, chapters, and crowd favorites!

Dipsea Wrapped: A year of spicy romance audio

Year in review blog 2024-cover

Ever wondered what goes into creating those intimate and immersive moments on Dipsea? We sat down with the voice behind [Killian](https://www.dipseastories.com/characters/killian-category/)—a fan-favorite character—to talk preparation, favorite moments, and what makes working with Dipsea so unique.

## How do you prepare for a Dipsea session? How is it different from other VO work?
![Voice Actor-Interview-Killian-1](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/79CI57WEHDgbWpzbhnGfYq/62f75a4f2744038243da0380fdf80c70/Voice_Actor-Interview-Killian-1.png)
“Good question! Honestly, I always start any VO session with breathing exercises and vocal drills. Hydration is key too. But with Dipsea, I guess I focus a lot more on the breath work—it’s a big part of the performance since there’s often a lot of… breath involved.

And of course, I read through the scripts ahead of time. The preparation is similar to other VO work in some ways, but Dipsea’s focus on intimacy makes it a bit different.”

## What’s your favorite moment from a story you’ve recorded?
![Voice Actor-Interview-Killian-2](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/4CHTMPPbJZqJv3hi7XZYxJ/88575e217f28a109c7a0e749bed71cfa/Voice_Actor-Interview-Killian-2.png)
“Oh, that’s a tough one! I really enjoy the softer, more vulnerable moments in the stories. If I had to pick, I’d say the scenes where Killian and Sabrina reconnect after a breakup. I know it's kind of like a couple of times now but I always enjoy when they get back together and they have those sweet little moments—especially after they’ve, uh, spent some 'intimate time' together.”

## What’s the funniest or most surprising thing that’s happened during a Dipsea recording session?
![Voice Actor-Interview-Killian-3](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/SLR769m1bi6UqY9LU3tT4/e89a795360ac2b2139a9c652daa89abd/Voice_Actor-Interview-Killian-3.png)
“Well, once I nearly choked on my own spit! These sessions can get pretty grunty and breathy, and sometimes, well… stuff happen. Who said voice acting wasn’t a risky business?”

## If you’ve played more than one Dipsea character, who’s your favorite and why?
![Voice Actor-Interview-Killian-4](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/1cTRUqXMmcN5N2b5HsrswR/d5b796bdca1763b2952aae9cee5974a7/Voice_Actor-Interview-Killian-4.png)
“Killian, hands down. He’s basically me on a page—he’s got this tough exterior but a really soft, vulnerable side underneath. I love how his relationship with Sabrina lets him drop that guard.

Don’t get me wrong, I’ve enjoyed playing other characters too, like Ewan, who’s a bit rougher around the edges. But Killian feels the most natural to me.”

## What excites you most about working with a platform that prioritizes women’s perspectives?
![Voice Actor-Interview-Killian-5](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/6JrZiFXWch1cyjqfSYBhqG/042e4fdbaf2377764b7e083c329de41b/Voice_Actor-Interview-Killian-5.png)
“I think it’s really important. Honestly, there are a lot of men out there who, for want of a better word, can be selfish—they don’t always put women’s needs ahead of their own. I’m the opposite of that. I feel like the needs of women should come first.

If Dipsea was a platform run by men, I probably wouldn’t do it. That was one of the things that drew me to it in the first place: it’s run by women, for women. A lot of content out there feels very male-driven, which isn’t great. But Dipsea hits that middle ground really well from both perspectives. 

It’s a typical “man” thing to think they know what women want and write a story based on that—but that’s ridiculous. Dipsea avoids all of that, and it’s one of the reasons I found the company so interesting when I first looked into it. They really struck a balance that works.”

---

It’s always fascinating to hear about the process behind the scenes. Our voice actors bring such dedication and authenticity to every story, and we couldn’t do it without them! 


Ever wondered what goes into creating those intimate and immersive moments on Dipsea? We sat down with the voice behind [Killian](https://www.dipseastories.com/characters/killian-category/)—a fan-favorite character—to talk preparation, favorite moments, and what makes working with Dipsea so unique.

## How do you prepare for a Dipsea session? How is it different from other VO work?
![Voice Actor-Interview-Killian-1](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/79CI57WEHDgbWpzbhnGfYq/62f75a4f2744038243da0380fdf80c70/Voice_Actor-Interview-Killian-1.png)
“Good question! Honestly, I always start any VO session with breathing exercises and vocal drills. Hydration is key too. But with Dipsea, I guess I focus a lot more on the breath work—it’s a big part of the performance since there’s often a lot of… breath involved.

And of course, I read through the scripts ahead of time. The preparation is similar to other VO work in some ways, but Dipsea’s focus on intimacy makes it a bit different.”

## What’s your favorite moment from a story you’ve recorded?
![Voice Actor-Interview-Killian-2](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/4CHTMPPbJZqJv3hi7XZYxJ/88575e217f28a109c7a0e749bed71cfa/Voice_Actor-Interview-Killian-2.png)
“Oh, that’s a tough one! I really enjoy the softer, more vulnerable moments in the stories. If I had to pick, I’d say the scenes where Killian and Sabrina reconnect after a breakup. I know it's kind of like a couple of times now but I always enjoy when they get back together and they have those sweet little moments—especially after they’ve, uh, spent some 'intimate time' together.”

## What’s the funniest or most surprising thing that’s happened during a Dipsea recording session?
![Voice Actor-Interview-Killian-3](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/SLR769m1bi6UqY9LU3tT4/e89a795360ac2b2139a9c652daa89abd/Voice_Actor-Interview-Killian-3.png)
“Well, once I nearly choked on my own spit! These sessions can get pretty grunty and breathy, and sometimes, well… stuff happen. Who said voice acting wasn’t a risky business?”

## If you’ve played more than one Dipsea character, who’s your favorite and why?
![Voice Actor-Interview-Killian-4](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/1cTRUqXMmcN5N2b5HsrswR/d5b796bdca1763b2952aae9cee5974a7/Voice_Actor-Interview-Killian-4.png)
“Killian, hands down. He’s basically me on a page—he’s got this tough exterior but a really soft, vulnerable side underneath. I love how his relationship with Sabrina lets him drop that guard.

Don’t get me wrong, I’ve enjoyed playing other characters too, like Ewan, who’s a bit rougher around the edges. But Killian feels the most natural to me.”

## What excites you most about working with a platform that prioritizes women’s perspectives?
![Voice Actor-Interview-Killian-5](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/6JrZiFXWch1cyjqfSYBhqG/042e4fdbaf2377764b7e083c329de41b/Voice_Actor-Interview-Killian-5.png)
“I think it’s really important. Honestly, there are a lot of men out there who, for want of a better word, can be selfish—they don’t always put women’s needs ahead of their own. I’m the opposite of that. I feel like the needs of women should come first.

If Dipsea was a platform run by men, I probably wouldn’t do it. That was one of the things that drew me to it in the first place: it’s run by women, for women. A lot of content out there feels very male-driven, which isn’t great. But Dipsea hits that middle ground really well from both perspectives. 

It’s a typical “man” thing to think they know what women want and write a story based on that—but that’s ridiculous. Dipsea avoids all of that, and it’s one of the reasons I found the company so interesting when I first looked into it. They really struck a balance that works.”

---

It’s always fascinating to hear about the process behind the scenes. Our voice actors bring such dedication and authenticity to every story, and we couldn’t do it without them! 


Step behind the mic with Killian's voice actor as he share his prep process, favorite moments, and why Dipsea’s female-focused storytelling stands out.

Meet the Voice Actor Behind Killian

Killian Voice Interview

At Dipsea, every story is crafted with care, creativity, and collaboration. From the first spark of an idea to the final audio experience, our team works behind the scenes to bring the characters and fantasies you love to life.

In this conversation between Olivia Taylor, Dipsea’s Editorial Lead, and Kara Hart, Dipsea’s Senior Audio Producer, the curtain is pulled back and listeners get to see how their process works, what inspires them, and what’s new this month. From the intricacies of directing the perfect begging scene to experimenting with new storytelling formats, they share the passion and thoughtfulness that go into every piece of content.

## More is More: Jack from Hometown
![500-Jack Pillowtalk 10](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/5kLtB2DxbjNAvTCGTEARYF/5b68ca413f71236a42c3155799f6bbee/500-Jack_Pillowtalk_10.png)

__Kara Hart:__ We have so much fun stuff coming out in November. It’s a month filled with new characters and old beloved characters.

__Olivia Taylor:__ We have two very sweet Jack + You’s and a very special Jack Overheard.

__Kara Hart:__ And one of the [Jack + You’s is extra, extra long](https://www.dipseastories.com/chapters/jack-you-late-night-snack/)—it’s 26 minutes, which is one of our longest ones yet, right?

__Olivia Taylor:__ Yeah.

__Kara Hart:__ And it's so good. There's so much buildup and foreplay and all the things that make you love Jack are a part of this. And he's really taking care of you in both + You’s. And then we've got him begging in the Overheard.

__Olivia Taylor:__ [Jack: Begging For You](https://www.dipseastories.com/chapters/jack-overheard-begging-for-you/), if you're a fan of Overheards.

__Kara Hart:__ Mm-hmm. It's really great. I do think Jack has this really special way of whimpering, and the actor who plays him is so good at making these really small sounds and noises that are upward inflected. They’re just really evocative of begging and whimpering. And in the Overheards, they're so good.

__Olivia Taylor:__ I need an explainer video of all the different kinds of begging.

__Kara Hart:__ Hahaha. Totally! I can tell you some of the directions I give when I'm directing male voices. Sometimes they're not begging enough, and I'll be like, no, beg like someone has just taken away your delicious treat and you really, really want it back, or beg like it's a caricature of begging. Beg like you mean it.

__Olivia Taylor:__ Like you mean it.

__Kara Hart:__ Sometimes it takes a few iterations, a few takes, but they get there, which is really fun.

## Introducing Xavier: A Familiar Voice
![500-Xavier Pillowtalk1](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/uRMR4xMxodSxOGTK9vcjc/364d778de3c04c4ff85aa9d54e549227/500-Xavier_Pillowtalk1.png)

__Olivia Taylor:__ Okay, and then we have this new [Xavier series](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/dangerous-games-series/). We’re releasing a few + You’s, which are also really long.

__Kara Hart:__ Right. They're around 20 to 30 minutes. And so much of the excitement around Xavier comes from wanting to take a truly beloved voice actor from the Dipseaverse, who voices Freddie in Secret Rooms, one of our much older audiobooks, and so many other characters, and create a whole new series around him. We love Freddie. We love Secret Rooms. But we wanted to take Freddie out of the dungeon. We took that series as far as we could within that Dom world we created and we wanted to try something different. And I think what makes these Xavier + You’s so effective is, well, the writing is really good and we're trying out a new word… Daddy...

__Olivia Taylor:__ Totally, I feel like at Dipsea we introduce things really slowly. We’ll gradually experiment with new dirty talk, a new word, new dynamics. And we haven't really used the word “daddy” in our scripts. Until Xavier.

__Kara Hart:__ What’s the backstory of this series?

__Olivia Taylor:__ It's a + You. You, the listener, are at a party with your friend, Xavier. He's maybe kind of like not your best friend in the group, but somebody you're sort of intrigued by, curious about. He's like a nice guy, good guy. You're at his house. You go to get your coat as you're leaving. You think you’re going to the guest room, but you accidentally walk into his bedroom.

__Kara Hart:__ Mm-hmm. Mm-hmm.

__Olivia Taylor:__ You discover his kinky BDSM setup and you're like, I'm not going to say anything. I'm just going to go. And on the way out, he's like, are you okay? You look like you've seen a ghost. You talk about his room and then you end up exploring together. He's like, I can show you the ropes. Which is sort of one of those things that could happen in real life.

__Kara Hart:__ Hahaha. Mm-hmm. Totally.

__Olivia Taylor:__ But circling back to daddy! He's like, I know you want to call me daddy, so you, the listener, call him daddy. And we're going to see how that does. We're going to see if people like it. I think it's fun!

__Kara Hart:__ Daddy—I think it's sexy. I think people will really like it. One of the things that's done really well is that calling Xavier daddy really turns the listener in the stories on, she’s like this is something that I really want. He's not putting that on the listener, which I think is really great. There is a fine line.

__Olivia Taylor:__ Totally. There's a fine line with daddy, you know, it really has to be executed properly to feel good!

__Kara Hart:__ There’s also, there’s such a good line which is probably not safe for work. But I think if you’re listening to our content, this is nothing new. Xavier says something like, “Shut up and prove to me that you know how to listen. There you go. I don’t want to hear a single word from you unless it’s ‘I’m coming.’” I mean, come on! Great writing Olivia.

__Olivia Taylor:__ Thank you! 

## New Horizons: Sage in Sapphic Saddles
![500-Sage Pillowtalk 1](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/7otkzh3mDzAar2c86BDlh2/0e21e6c29c4b7992fc0a263780efc397/500-Sage_Pillowtalk_1.png)

__Olivia Taylor:__ Okay, let’s talk about [Sapphic Saddles](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/sapphic-saddles-series/). The main character, Sage, has a great voice, kind of like Kristen Stewart. Also, I just think we’ve been long overdue for a cowgirl story.

__Kara Hart:__ Great voice, great story!

__Olivia Taylor:__ Sage is like a sweet-talking, but sort of rough-around-the-edges, cowgirl. She's working with her hands.

__Kara Hart:__ I mean, you don't need anything else.

__Olivia Taylor:__ Something I really like about this one is that she’s calling the listener in the + You’s sweetheart. I think it's very sexy and fun, but it could be polarizing. We will see. I'm sure the listeners will tell us. People love to give us feedback, and we love to take it!

## A Classic Twist: Launching Carmilla
![500-CarmillaPillowtalk](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/GK2bObi93BiSAGryRKrjh/ca25f3c14693936c0862aa289cfb31f4/500-CarmillaPillowtalk.jpg)

__Olivia Taylor:__ I’m also excited about something that we just launched: [Carmilla](https://www.dipseastories.com/series/carmilla-series/). It’s an 18th-century vampire novella written prior to Dracula. Prior, obviously, to Twilight. Really one of the original vampire tales, and it’s a sort of sapphic queer tale. It’s about lust between this vampire, Carmilla, and this young woman she’s staying with, Laura.

__Kara Hart:__ And it’s not the same as a regular Dipsea audiobook or story where it’s super spicy and there’s sex. This is a regular book that we adapted into an audiobook.

__Olivia Taylor:__ But I think it’s really fun and exciting because so much of our audiobooks are really short. It’s like bingeable content. This is something that you can really listen to for a long time. And it’s spooky.

__Kara Hart:__ Yeah, the story holds up. I think it’s really good.

__Olivia Taylor:__ And it’s the first piece of content we’ve ever made, or produced, that’s been this long.

__Kara Hart:__ Yeah, and I think what’s so good about the relationship between Carmilla and Laura is that it moves from this kind of gentle interest into this obsession. I slacked you and Liz, our social media manager, and was like, it’s the gayest thing in the world to have someone crying over how much they are in love with you.

__Olivia Taylor:__ Just crying. I mean, there’s nothing more gay than yearning. It’s just yearning, maxing out.

__Kara Hart:__ And we also created a [Carmilla + You](https://www.dipseastories.com/chapters/carmilla-you-candlelit-confession/), so Carmilla is focusing on the listener in this one. It’s written by one of our wonderful writers and they really capitalize on that yearning and obsession. One of the very first lines in Carmilla + You is like, “Still your beating heart.” Come on, we need that.

__Olivia Taylor:__ We need that!!

__Kara Hart:__ It’s really great. There are also spicy scenes for sure. The description of an orgasm in one of the later chapters is phenomenal. I’m excited. I hope people are quoting it.

## Looking Ahead to December

__Kara Hart:__ December is going to be really fun.

__Olivia Taylor:__ Totally. We’ve got some stuff people have been asking for coming up.

__Kara Hart:__ We’re excited about what’s next—lots of good surprises.

__Olivia Taylor:__ Subtle foreshadowing for making what you want.

__Kara Hart:__ Yes! December is going to be great.

__Olivia Taylor:__ Totally. We hope you love what’s coming!

---

[Try Dipsea for 30 days](https://www.dipseastories.com/subscribe/?f=2&promo=blog&utm_source=blog&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=inside-dipsea-november-2024) & Stay tuned for December’s surprises! We’ll keep experimenting, creating, and bringing you the stories you love!


At Dipsea, every story is crafted with care, creativity, and collaboration. From the first spark of an idea to the final audio experience, our team works behind the scenes to bring the characters and fantasies you love to life.

In this conversation between Olivia Taylor, Dipsea’s Editorial Lead, and Kara Hart, Dipsea’s Senior Audio Producer, the curtain is pulled back and listeners get to see how their process works, what inspires them, and what’s new this month. From the intricacies of directing the perfect begging scene to experimenting with new storytelling formats, they share the passion and thoughtfulness that go into every piece of content.

## More is More: Jack from Hometown
![500-Jack Pillowtalk 10](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/5kLtB2DxbjNAvTCGTEARYF/5b68ca413f71236a42c3155799f6bbee/500-Jack_Pillowtalk_10.png)

__Kara Hart:__ We have so much fun stuff coming out in November. It’s a month filled with new characters and old beloved characters.

__Olivia Taylor:__ We have two very sweet Jack + You’s and a very special Jack Overheard.

__Kara Hart:__ And one of the [Jack + You’s is extra, extra long](https://www.dipseastories.com/chapters/jack-you-late-night-snack/)—it’s 26 minutes, which is one of our longest ones yet, right?

__Olivia Taylor:__ Yeah.

__Kara Hart:__ And it's so good. There's so much buildup and foreplay and all the things that make you love Jack are a part of this. And he's really taking care of you in both + You’s. And then we've got him begging in the Overheard.

__Olivia Taylor:__ [Jack: Begging For You](https://www.dipseastories.com/chapters/jack-overheard-begging-for-you/), if you're a fan of Overheards.

__Kara Hart:__ Mm-hmm. It's really great. I do think Jack has this really special way of whimpering, and the actor who plays him is so good at making these really small sounds and noises that are upward inflected. They’re just really evocative of begging and whimpering. And in the Overheards, they're so good.

__Olivia Taylor:__ I need an explainer video of all the different kinds of begging.

__Kara Hart:__ Hahaha. Totally! I can tell you some of the directions I give when I'm directing male voices. Sometimes they're not begging enough, and I'll be like, no, beg like someone has just taken away your delicious treat and you really, really want it back, or beg like it's a caricature of begging. Beg like you mean it.

__Olivia Taylor:__ Like you mean it.

__Kara Hart:__ Sometimes it takes a few iterations, a few takes, but they get there, which is really fun.

## Introducing Xavier: A Familiar Voice
![500-Xavier Pillowtalk1](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/uRMR4xMxodSxOGTK9vcjc/364d778de3c04c4ff85aa9d54e549227/500-Xavier_Pillowtalk1.png)

__Olivia Taylor:__ Okay, and then we have this new [Xavier series](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/dangerous-games-series/). We’re releasing a few + You’s, which are also really long.

__Kara Hart:__ Right. They're around 20 to 30 minutes. And so much of the excitement around Xavier comes from wanting to take a truly beloved voice actor from the Dipseaverse, who voices Freddie in Secret Rooms, one of our much older audiobooks, and so many other characters, and create a whole new series around him. We love Freddie. We love Secret Rooms. But we wanted to take Freddie out of the dungeon. We took that series as far as we could within that Dom world we created and we wanted to try something different. And I think what makes these Xavier + You’s so effective is, well, the writing is really good and we're trying out a new word… Daddy...

__Olivia Taylor:__ Totally, I feel like at Dipsea we introduce things really slowly. We’ll gradually experiment with new dirty talk, a new word, new dynamics. And we haven't really used the word “daddy” in our scripts. Until Xavier.

__Kara Hart:__ What’s the backstory of this series?

__Olivia Taylor:__ It's a + You. You, the listener, are at a party with your friend, Xavier. He's maybe kind of like not your best friend in the group, but somebody you're sort of intrigued by, curious about. He's like a nice guy, good guy. You're at his house. You go to get your coat as you're leaving. You think you’re going to the guest room, but you accidentally walk into his bedroom.

__Kara Hart:__ Mm-hmm. Mm-hmm.

__Olivia Taylor:__ You discover his kinky BDSM setup and you're like, I'm not going to say anything. I'm just going to go. And on the way out, he's like, are you okay? You look like you've seen a ghost. You talk about his room and then you end up exploring together. He's like, I can show you the ropes. Which is sort of one of those things that could happen in real life.

__Kara Hart:__ Hahaha. Mm-hmm. Totally.

__Olivia Taylor:__ But circling back to daddy! He's like, I know you want to call me daddy, so you, the listener, call him daddy. And we're going to see how that does. We're going to see if people like it. I think it's fun!

__Kara Hart:__ Daddy—I think it's sexy. I think people will really like it. One of the things that's done really well is that calling Xavier daddy really turns the listener in the stories on, she’s like this is something that I really want. He's not putting that on the listener, which I think is really great. There is a fine line.

__Olivia Taylor:__ Totally. There's a fine line with daddy, you know, it really has to be executed properly to feel good!

__Kara Hart:__ There’s also, there’s such a good line which is probably not safe for work. But I think if you’re listening to our content, this is nothing new. Xavier says something like, “Shut up and prove to me that you know how to listen. There you go. I don’t want to hear a single word from you unless it’s ‘I’m coming.’” I mean, come on! Great writing Olivia.

__Olivia Taylor:__ Thank you! 

## New Horizons: Sage in Sapphic Saddles
![500-Sage Pillowtalk 1](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/7otkzh3mDzAar2c86BDlh2/0e21e6c29c4b7992fc0a263780efc397/500-Sage_Pillowtalk_1.png)

__Olivia Taylor:__ Okay, let’s talk about [Sapphic Saddles](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/sapphic-saddles-series/). The main character, Sage, has a great voice, kind of like Kristen Stewart. Also, I just think we’ve been long overdue for a cowgirl story.

__Kara Hart:__ Great voice, great story!

__Olivia Taylor:__ Sage is like a sweet-talking, but sort of rough-around-the-edges, cowgirl. She's working with her hands.

__Kara Hart:__ I mean, you don't need anything else.

__Olivia Taylor:__ Something I really like about this one is that she’s calling the listener in the + You’s sweetheart. I think it's very sexy and fun, but it could be polarizing. We will see. I'm sure the listeners will tell us. People love to give us feedback, and we love to take it!

## A Classic Twist: Launching Carmilla
![500-CarmillaPillowtalk](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/GK2bObi93BiSAGryRKrjh/ca25f3c14693936c0862aa289cfb31f4/500-CarmillaPillowtalk.jpg)

__Olivia Taylor:__ I’m also excited about something that we just launched: [Carmilla](https://www.dipseastories.com/series/carmilla-series/). It’s an 18th-century vampire novella written prior to Dracula. Prior, obviously, to Twilight. Really one of the original vampire tales, and it’s a sort of sapphic queer tale. It’s about lust between this vampire, Carmilla, and this young woman she’s staying with, Laura.

__Kara Hart:__ And it’s not the same as a regular Dipsea audiobook or story where it’s super spicy and there’s sex. This is a regular book that we adapted into an audiobook.

__Olivia Taylor:__ But I think it’s really fun and exciting because so much of our audiobooks are really short. It’s like bingeable content. This is something that you can really listen to for a long time. And it’s spooky.

__Kara Hart:__ Yeah, the story holds up. I think it’s really good.

__Olivia Taylor:__ And it’s the first piece of content we’ve ever made, or produced, that’s been this long.

__Kara Hart:__ Yeah, and I think what’s so good about the relationship between Carmilla and Laura is that it moves from this kind of gentle interest into this obsession. I slacked you and Liz, our social media manager, and was like, it’s the gayest thing in the world to have someone crying over how much they are in love with you.

__Olivia Taylor:__ Just crying. I mean, there’s nothing more gay than yearning. It’s just yearning, maxing out.

__Kara Hart:__ And we also created a [Carmilla + You](https://www.dipseastories.com/chapters/carmilla-you-candlelit-confession/), so Carmilla is focusing on the listener in this one. It’s written by one of our wonderful writers and they really capitalize on that yearning and obsession. One of the very first lines in Carmilla + You is like, “Still your beating heart.” Come on, we need that.

__Olivia Taylor:__ We need that!!

__Kara Hart:__ It’s really great. There are also spicy scenes for sure. The description of an orgasm in one of the later chapters is phenomenal. I’m excited. I hope people are quoting it.

## Looking Ahead to December

__Kara Hart:__ December is going to be really fun.

__Olivia Taylor:__ Totally. We’ve got some stuff people have been asking for coming up.

__Kara Hart:__ We’re excited about what’s next—lots of good surprises.

__Olivia Taylor:__ Subtle foreshadowing for making what you want.

__Kara Hart:__ Yes! December is going to be great.

__Olivia Taylor:__ Totally. We hope you love what’s coming!

---

[Try Dipsea for 30 days](https://www.dipseastories.com/subscribe/?f=2&promo=blog&utm_source=blog&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=inside-dipsea-november-2024) & Stay tuned for December’s surprises! We’ll keep experimenting, creating, and bringing you the stories you love!


Go behind the scenes at Dipsea! Olivia Taylor & Kara Hart share how they craft stories, what inspires them, and what’s new this month.✨

Inside Dipsea: A Peek Behind the Curtain of Content Creation

Inside-Dipsea-1

If you’ve been anywhere near BookTok, then you probably know that Rebecca Yarros took the world by storm with “[Fourth Wing](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61431922-fourth-wing)” and “[Iron Flame](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/90202302-iron-flame).” 

The epic fantasy series captivated readers with the dangerous lives of dragon riders at Basgiath War College and the sizzling chemistry between Violet Sorrengail and Xaden Riorson. Who doesn’t love an enemies-to-lovers fantasy romance?

“Iron Flame” ended on a cliffhanger, and the third book in the series, “[Onyx Storm](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/209439446-onyx-storm),” doesn’t come out until January. What’s a reader to do now??

Personally, I needed a full palate cleanse (a steamy [sports romance](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/sports-romance-books/), perhaps?) after the high stakes and political intrigue of Navarre. But if you want to cure your book hangover by jumping right into another epic fantasy world, I’m here to help!

PS—I built this list assuming you’ve already read Iron Flame. If you haven’t, stop what you’re doing immediately, and get reading. And even if you’ve already read them both, I recommend giving the [dramatized version](https://www.audible.com/pd/Fourth-Wing-Part-1-of-2-Dramatized-Adaptation-Audiobook/B0CKS42KQH?ref_pageloadid=pb6VX0ASPnYf4APi&ref=a_author_Re_c19_lProduct_1_7&pf_rd_p=f3abc0ee-320d-4c19-8388-fcd3a8e6c3a4&pf_rd_r=YCXZY84TCXP4ND246P3K&pageLoadId=D7eMcp9dIWduhx4d&creativeId=73c32a9a-e504-4597-bb87-c30c58fc0204) of the audiobooks a listen! Between the [full cast of narrators](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/full-cast-audiobooks/), the ambient music, and dramatic sound effects, it feels like a movie for your ears and is an all-around delightful experience.

Until we can get back to Violet and Xaden, here are 11 books to help fill the void the Empyrean series has left behind.

## 1. “[The Serpent and the Wings of Night](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60714999-the-serpent-and-the-wings-of-night)” by Carissa Broadbent
![The-Serpent-and-the-Wings-of-Night](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/2J5cIksmSGToqpJNIE4qLo/eaa55c4fc5ca8f14d8ddadc7bbd0d30f/The-Serpent-and-the-Wings-of-Night.jpg)

The human daughter of a vampire king, Oraya has only ever wanted to fit into the world around her. Most people regard her as an inconvenient human at best and a snack at worst. Determined to make a name for herself, she enters the Kejari, a deadly Hunger Games-esque tournament.

In the Kejari, she has no shortage of enemies, including Raihn, one of the most powerful and dangerous vampires. Oraya doesn’t trust Raihn at all, but forming an alliance with the most dangerous rival in the game is her best shot at survival. 

But as the Kejari rages on, Oraya finds herself drawn to the rival that could be her greatest downfall.

## 2. “[A Court of Thorns and Roses](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/50659467-a-court-of-thorns-and-roses)” by Sarah J. Maas
![A-Court-of-Thorns-and-Roses](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/2ncJE7Lhc1uNEA9FQVFfC5/e869d795b771ca8351bf6c16b7c66a5f/A-Court-of-Thorns-and-Roses.jpg)

When Feyre accidentally shoots and kills a fae while hunting in the woods, life as she knows it comes to an abrupt halt. She’s kidnapped by Tamlin and taken to an entirely different world, one she’s only ever heard about. And while this mystical realm is bright and shiny on the surface, it isn’t long before Feyre starts to see the politics and grit below the surface.

“A Court of Thorns and Roses” (ACOTAR) is a unique spin on a Beauty and the Beast retelling. It’s the first book of one of TikTok’s favorite fantasy series that fans of Fourth Wing will love. It’s one of those series where every book is better (and spicier) than the last. 

When you finish the ACOTAR series, pick up the [Throne of Glass](https://www.goodreads.com/series/51288-throne-of-glass) series and then the [Crescent City](https://www.goodreads.com/series/233335-crescent-city) series. Basically keep reading until you finish the entire Sarah J. Maas universe!

Psst…already read and loved ACOTAR? We’ve got [more where that came from](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/books-like-a-court-of-thorns-and-roses/).

## 3. “[The Bridge Kingdom](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/53921926-the-bridge-kingdom)” by Danielle Jensen
![The-Bridge-Kingdom-by-Danielle-L.-Jensen](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/5Zibzdtpz5aUEI8Bxd2Dk7/86d0da8f4cee83bd5585f33f8978dbe4/The-Bridge-Kingdom-by-Danielle-L.-Jensen.jpg)

[Enemies-to-lovers romance](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/enemies-to-lovers-trope/) fans, this one's for you!

Lara has one goal: To take down King Aren, the ruler of an enemy kingdom. When the opportunity arises for Lara to infiltrate the kingdom posing as a bride for the king, she doesn’t hesitate to take it. 

But as Lara spends more time with the king she swore to hate (and kill), a surprising connection blooms, causing her to question if everything she thought she knew was really true.

The first four books in this series are out already, and two more are planned.

## 4. “[Avalon Academy](https://www.dipseastories.com/chapters/avalon-academy-1-sorting-day/)” by Dipsea
![Avalon-Academy-by-Dipsea](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/1JuKNh8yPIzH3YRls89Jxu/6d49eadddaec0d6c71c586ee14375e57/Avalon-Academy-by-Dipsea.jpg)

If you loved the magical, dark academia vibe of “Fourth Wing” you’ll love Avalon Academy!

Evie’s plans to study to be a Healer at Avalon Academy go up in smoke when the sorting ceremony places her in Blackthorne Tower for Seeing instead. Now, instead of spending time with her boyfriend, Elliot, she’s stuck spending her first day figuring out her new future. Plus Rory, her rebellious and troublemaking new classmate is really getting under her skin. Some first day, huh?

This three-part audio series has British accents, a love triangle, and the [enemies-to-lovers](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/enemies-to-lovers-fantasy-books/) romance we all know and love. It’s like the energy of “Fourth Wing” *and* a grown-up “Harry Potter” combined. What’s not to love?

## 5. “[One Dark Window](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/58340706-one-dark-window)” by Rachel Gillig
![One-Dark-Window-by-Rachel-Gillig](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/5DVYUUx5nDwjRmLFTp6cse/211a5196919ec05612e983dddcebbee2/One-Dark-Window-by-Rachel-Gillig.jpg)

As a child, Elspeth survived a mystery illness but it left her with a magical gift. Now, to survive in the kingdom of Blunder, she has to keep her gift to herself. No one can know she was affected and they definitely can’t know about the Nightmare, the ancient spirit that lives in her mind. Sometimes he protects her. Other times, he controls her.

When she crosses paths with Ravyn, the King’s nephew and one of the most dangerous men in all of Blunder, her life takes a dramatic turn. She finds herself joining the fight to bring her kingdom out of the misty shadows while also wrestling with the Nightmare, who is slowly taking over her mind.

This is the first of a two-book series and is a perfect spooky season read.

## 6. “[Blood & Steel](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/63905241-blood-steel)” by Helen Scheuerer
![Blood-&-Steel-by-Helen-Scheuerer](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/2VkQLUXyHPUcW9fQNvwMbO/cc8f3a45ec06a104b4594e1eb780e36b/Blood-_-Steel-by-Helen-Scheuerer.jpg)

Althea has always wanted to be a warrior but women are forbidden to fight, so she’s long trained in secret. With a prophecy revealing her impending death (just three years away!), she's on a time crunch to make her dreams come true.

But the deadly training to become a warrior is nothing compared to her growing feelings for the broody and off-limits Wilder.

Blood & Steel is the first of the four books in the Legends of Thezmarr series. The series is complete, so you can dive right in without worrying about any crazy cliffhangers!

## 7. “[From Blood and Ash](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/52831200-from-blood-and-ash)” by Jennifer L. Armentrout
![From-Blood-and-Ash](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/3sSYcgiBA35IHdEAxiNSGd/48557fde57350a3cd0e2e8d9d3aeea70/From-Blood-and-Ash.jpg)

As the Maiden, Poppy’s life is one of quiet solitude. Her life has never belonged to her and while she’s unhappy in her safe cage, there’s nothing she can do about it. 

When Hawke, the new bodyguard assigned to keep her safe and out of trouble, enters her life, Poppy feels excitement for the first time in forever. He gets under her skin and makes her question everything she thought she knew (fans of Fourth Wing will love this!).

There are five books in this [spicy series](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/spicy-book-series/) as well as a four-book spin-off series.

## 8. “[Trial of the Sun Queen](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/191755077-trial-of-the-sun-queen)” by Nisha J. Tuli 
![Trial-of-the-Sun-Queen-by-Nisha-J.-Tuli](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/1rauWyq8tTDYuhk9enBUMQ/4ce67b31e4cdd9e2f82bb95715834aab/Trial-of-the-Sun-Queen-by-Nisha-J.-Tuli.jpg)

After being imprisoned for more than a decade by the Aurora King, Lor is suddenly released. But she finds herself thrown into the Sun Trials, a deadly battle against nine other women. The prize? Survival and freedom (oh, and the heart of the rival Sun King). If she loses, she’s dead (or worse, sent back to imprisonment).

With everything on the line, Lor has to fend off her competitors (who are all too happy to take her out) and learn who she can trust. 

The fourth book of the series comes out in November 2024, so now is a perfect time to dive into this universe.

## 9. “[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)

Between the war among the gods, her brother going missing from the frontline of the war, and family troubles at home, it’s safe to say Iris has her hands full. 

To help cope with it all, Iris begins writing letters to her missing brother, tucking them below her wardrobe door. In a magical twist, those letters fall into the hands of her workplace rival, Roman, who writes back anonymously.

If you liked the enemies-to-lovers aspect of Fourth Wing, you’ll like this one. When you’re done, make sure to read “Ruthless Vows,” the second in the series.

## 10. “[Zodiac Academy: The Awakening](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/46261182-the-awakening)” by Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti
![Zodiac-Academy-The-Awakening-by-Susanne-Valenti-and-Caroline-Peckham](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/1tQTHn2bZ2uzNbJ89V2vn2/e13f558c2db567662b5f4a78d01b5554/Zodiac-Academy-The-Awakening-by-Susanne-Valenti-and-Caroline-Peckham.jpg)

If you liked the academia vibe of Basgiath War College, you’ll like the Zodiac Academy!

Twins Darcy and Tory have discovered they’re heirs to the throne of Solaria, but before they can claim what’s theirs, they have to attend the Zodiac Academy. There are all sorts of magical creatures at this college (fae, dragon shifters, werewolves, vampires) and they all have it out for the twins, who have one of the rarest gifts of all.

## 11. “[Powerless](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/75513900-powerless)” by Lauren Roberts
![Powerless-by-Lauren-Roberts](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/3tprmmvNuhZGsW9HJYa276/e9d1462da657ce0a5e0691e930227dd5/Powerless-by-Lauren-Roberts.jpg)

In the kingdom of Ilya, being Ordinary is illegal. In an attempt to blend in, avoid detection, and stay alive, Paedyn poses as a Psychic in the kingdom of Elites.

Her plan is going swimmingly until she unknowingly saves the life of one of the kingdom’s princes. As a reward, she’s thrown into the Purging Trials, the deadly competition designed to show off the talents of the Elites (and they say no good deed goes unpunished!). Can she fool them all and stay alive?

## 12. “[Wings of Winter](https://www.dipseastories.com/series/wings-of-winter-series/)” by Dipsea
![Wings-of-Winter-by-Dipsea-small](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/2LxXAy5azxnAxxZjuFVdRp/4b9e83e87037dca84edce1fc60a0137a/Wings-of-Winter-by-Dipsea.jpg)

This audiobook starts the night before The Gleaning, a deadly tournament in the Kingdom of Aurora. As a human amongst immortals, you have your work cut out to survive the tournament, but you’re not worried (you’re tough!). 

You meet Rowan, a fae prince determined to keep you safe, which is so annoying (you both made it to the same competition, so it’s not like you’re completely helpless!). But if you’re annoyed about Rowan’s protective streak, that’s *nothing* compared to how he feels about it. And really, is there anything better than a tortured immortal falling in love with a human and being really irritated by it?

Once you finish all 13 chapters, check out the [behind the scenes of how “Wings of Winter” came to life](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/the-making-of-wings-of-winter/)!

__Find even more [fantasy romance](https://www.dipseastories.com/tags/fantasy-tag/) favorites on Dipsea, the app for original spicy audiobooks and more. Sign up for a [30-day free trial](https://www.dipseastories.com/subscribe/?f=2&promo=signup30d) to find the perfect story for any mood!__

If you’ve been anywhere near BookTok, then you probably know that Rebecca Yarros took the world by storm with “[Fourth Wing](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61431922-fourth-wing)” and “[Iron Flame](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/90202302-iron-flame).” 

The epic fantasy series captivated readers with the dangerous lives of dragon riders at Basgiath War College and the sizzling chemistry between Violet Sorrengail and Xaden Riorson. Who doesn’t love an enemies-to-lovers fantasy romance?

“Iron Flame” ended on a cliffhanger, and the third book in the series, “[Onyx Storm](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/209439446-onyx-storm),” doesn’t come out until January. What’s a reader to do now??

Personally, I needed a full palate cleanse (a steamy [sports romance](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/sports-romance-books/), perhaps?) after the high stakes and political intrigue of Navarre. But if you want to cure your book hangover by jumping right into another epic fantasy world, I’m here to help!

PS—I built this list assuming you’ve already read Iron Flame. If you haven’t, stop what you’re doing immediately, and get reading. And even if you’ve already read them both, I recommend giving the [dramatized version](https://www.audible.com/pd/Fourth-Wing-Part-1-of-2-Dramatized-Adaptation-Audiobook/B0CKS42KQH?ref_pageloadid=pb6VX0ASPnYf4APi&ref=a_author_Re_c19_lProduct_1_7&pf_rd_p=f3abc0ee-320d-4c19-8388-fcd3a8e6c3a4&pf_rd_r=YCXZY84TCXP4ND246P3K&pageLoadId=D7eMcp9dIWduhx4d&creativeId=73c32a9a-e504-4597-bb87-c30c58fc0204) of the audiobooks a listen! Between the [full cast of narrators](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/full-cast-audiobooks/), the ambient music, and dramatic sound effects, it feels like a movie for your ears and is an all-around delightful experience.

Until we can get back to Violet and Xaden, here are 11 books to help fill the void the Empyrean series has left behind.

## 1. “[The Serpent and the Wings of Night](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60714999-the-serpent-and-the-wings-of-night)” by Carissa Broadbent
![The-Serpent-and-the-Wings-of-Night](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/2J5cIksmSGToqpJNIE4qLo/eaa55c4fc5ca8f14d8ddadc7bbd0d30f/The-Serpent-and-the-Wings-of-Night.jpg)

The human daughter of a vampire king, Oraya has only ever wanted to fit into the world around her. Most people regard her as an inconvenient human at best and a snack at worst. Determined to make a name for herself, she enters the Kejari, a deadly Hunger Games-esque tournament.

In the Kejari, she has no shortage of enemies, including Raihn, one of the most powerful and dangerous vampires. Oraya doesn’t trust Raihn at all, but forming an alliance with the most dangerous rival in the game is her best shot at survival. 

But as the Kejari rages on, Oraya finds herself drawn to the rival that could be her greatest downfall.

## 2. “[A Court of Thorns and Roses](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/50659467-a-court-of-thorns-and-roses)” by Sarah J. Maas
![A-Court-of-Thorns-and-Roses](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/2ncJE7Lhc1uNEA9FQVFfC5/e869d795b771ca8351bf6c16b7c66a5f/A-Court-of-Thorns-and-Roses.jpg)

When Feyre accidentally shoots and kills a fae while hunting in the woods, life as she knows it comes to an abrupt halt. She’s kidnapped by Tamlin and taken to an entirely different world, one she’s only ever heard about. And while this mystical realm is bright and shiny on the surface, it isn’t long before Feyre starts to see the politics and grit below the surface.

“A Court of Thorns and Roses” (ACOTAR) is a unique spin on a Beauty and the Beast retelling. It’s the first book of one of TikTok’s favorite fantasy series that fans of Fourth Wing will love. It’s one of those series where every book is better (and spicier) than the last. 

When you finish the ACOTAR series, pick up the [Throne of Glass](https://www.goodreads.com/series/51288-throne-of-glass) series and then the [Crescent City](https://www.goodreads.com/series/233335-crescent-city) series. Basically keep reading until you finish the entire Sarah J. Maas universe!

Psst…already read and loved ACOTAR? We’ve got [more where that came from](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/books-like-a-court-of-thorns-and-roses/).

## 3. “[The Bridge Kingdom](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/53921926-the-bridge-kingdom)” by Danielle Jensen
![The-Bridge-Kingdom-by-Danielle-L.-Jensen](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/5Zibzdtpz5aUEI8Bxd2Dk7/86d0da8f4cee83bd5585f33f8978dbe4/The-Bridge-Kingdom-by-Danielle-L.-Jensen.jpg)

[Enemies-to-lovers romance](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/enemies-to-lovers-trope/) fans, this one's for you!

Lara has one goal: To take down King Aren, the ruler of an enemy kingdom. When the opportunity arises for Lara to infiltrate the kingdom posing as a bride for the king, she doesn’t hesitate to take it. 

But as Lara spends more time with the king she swore to hate (and kill), a surprising connection blooms, causing her to question if everything she thought she knew was really true.

The first four books in this series are out already, and two more are planned.

## 4. “[Avalon Academy](https://www.dipseastories.com/chapters/avalon-academy-1-sorting-day/)” by Dipsea
![Avalon-Academy-by-Dipsea](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/1JuKNh8yPIzH3YRls89Jxu/6d49eadddaec0d6c71c586ee14375e57/Avalon-Academy-by-Dipsea.jpg)

If you loved the magical, dark academia vibe of “Fourth Wing” you’ll love Avalon Academy!

Evie’s plans to study to be a Healer at Avalon Academy go up in smoke when the sorting ceremony places her in Blackthorne Tower for Seeing instead. Now, instead of spending time with her boyfriend, Elliot, she’s stuck spending her first day figuring out her new future. Plus Rory, her rebellious and troublemaking new classmate is really getting under her skin. Some first day, huh?

This three-part audio series has British accents, a love triangle, and the [enemies-to-lovers](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/enemies-to-lovers-fantasy-books/) romance we all know and love. It’s like the energy of “Fourth Wing” *and* a grown-up “Harry Potter” combined. What’s not to love?

## 5. “[One Dark Window](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/58340706-one-dark-window)” by Rachel Gillig
![One-Dark-Window-by-Rachel-Gillig](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/5DVYUUx5nDwjRmLFTp6cse/211a5196919ec05612e983dddcebbee2/One-Dark-Window-by-Rachel-Gillig.jpg)

As a child, Elspeth survived a mystery illness but it left her with a magical gift. Now, to survive in the kingdom of Blunder, she has to keep her gift to herself. No one can know she was affected and they definitely can’t know about the Nightmare, the ancient spirit that lives in her mind. Sometimes he protects her. Other times, he controls her.

When she crosses paths with Ravyn, the King’s nephew and one of the most dangerous men in all of Blunder, her life takes a dramatic turn. She finds herself joining the fight to bring her kingdom out of the misty shadows while also wrestling with the Nightmare, who is slowly taking over her mind.

This is the first of a two-book series and is a perfect spooky season read.

## 6. “[Blood & Steel](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/63905241-blood-steel)” by Helen Scheuerer
![Blood-&-Steel-by-Helen-Scheuerer](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/2VkQLUXyHPUcW9fQNvwMbO/cc8f3a45ec06a104b4594e1eb780e36b/Blood-_-Steel-by-Helen-Scheuerer.jpg)

Althea has always wanted to be a warrior but women are forbidden to fight, so she’s long trained in secret. With a prophecy revealing her impending death (just three years away!), she's on a time crunch to make her dreams come true.

But the deadly training to become a warrior is nothing compared to her growing feelings for the broody and off-limits Wilder.

Blood & Steel is the first of the four books in the Legends of Thezmarr series. The series is complete, so you can dive right in without worrying about any crazy cliffhangers!

## 7. “[From Blood and Ash](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/52831200-from-blood-and-ash)” by Jennifer L. Armentrout
![From-Blood-and-Ash](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/3sSYcgiBA35IHdEAxiNSGd/48557fde57350a3cd0e2e8d9d3aeea70/From-Blood-and-Ash.jpg)

As the Maiden, Poppy’s life is one of quiet solitude. Her life has never belonged to her and while she’s unhappy in her safe cage, there’s nothing she can do about it. 

When Hawke, the new bodyguard assigned to keep her safe and out of trouble, enters her life, Poppy feels excitement for the first time in forever. He gets under her skin and makes her question everything she thought she knew (fans of Fourth Wing will love this!).

There are five books in this [spicy series](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/spicy-book-series/) as well as a four-book spin-off series.

## 8. “[Trial of the Sun Queen](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/191755077-trial-of-the-sun-queen)” by Nisha J. Tuli 
![Trial-of-the-Sun-Queen-by-Nisha-J.-Tuli](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/1rauWyq8tTDYuhk9enBUMQ/4ce67b31e4cdd9e2f82bb95715834aab/Trial-of-the-Sun-Queen-by-Nisha-J.-Tuli.jpg)

After being imprisoned for more than a decade by the Aurora King, Lor is suddenly released. But she finds herself thrown into the Sun Trials, a deadly battle against nine other women. The prize? Survival and freedom (oh, and the heart of the rival Sun King). If she loses, she’s dead (or worse, sent back to imprisonment).

With everything on the line, Lor has to fend off her competitors (who are all too happy to take her out) and learn who she can trust. 

The fourth book of the series comes out in November 2024, so now is a perfect time to dive into this universe.

## 9. “[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)

Between the war among the gods, her brother going missing from the frontline of the war, and family troubles at home, it’s safe to say Iris has her hands full. 

To help cope with it all, Iris begins writing letters to her missing brother, tucking them below her wardrobe door. In a magical twist, those letters fall into the hands of her workplace rival, Roman, who writes back anonymously.

If you liked the enemies-to-lovers aspect of Fourth Wing, you’ll like this one. When you’re done, make sure to read “Ruthless Vows,” the second in the series.

## 10. “[Zodiac Academy: The Awakening](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/46261182-the-awakening)” by Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti
![Zodiac-Academy-The-Awakening-by-Susanne-Valenti-and-Caroline-Peckham](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/1tQTHn2bZ2uzNbJ89V2vn2/e13f558c2db567662b5f4a78d01b5554/Zodiac-Academy-The-Awakening-by-Susanne-Valenti-and-Caroline-Peckham.jpg)

If you liked the academia vibe of Basgiath War College, you’ll like the Zodiac Academy!

Twins Darcy and Tory have discovered they’re heirs to the throne of Solaria, but before they can claim what’s theirs, they have to attend the Zodiac Academy. There are all sorts of magical creatures at this college (fae, dragon shifters, werewolves, vampires) and they all have it out for the twins, who have one of the rarest gifts of all.

## 11. “[Powerless](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/75513900-powerless)” by Lauren Roberts
![Powerless-by-Lauren-Roberts](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/3tprmmvNuhZGsW9HJYa276/e9d1462da657ce0a5e0691e930227dd5/Powerless-by-Lauren-Roberts.jpg)

In the kingdom of Ilya, being Ordinary is illegal. In an attempt to blend in, avoid detection, and stay alive, Paedyn poses as a Psychic in the kingdom of Elites.

Her plan is going swimmingly until she unknowingly saves the life of one of the kingdom’s princes. As a reward, she’s thrown into the Purging Trials, the deadly competition designed to show off the talents of the Elites (and they say no good deed goes unpunished!). Can she fool them all and stay alive?

## 12. “[Wings of Winter](https://www.dipseastories.com/series/wings-of-winter-series/)” by Dipsea
![Wings-of-Winter-by-Dipsea-small](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/2LxXAy5azxnAxxZjuFVdRp/4b9e83e87037dca84edce1fc60a0137a/Wings-of-Winter-by-Dipsea.jpg)

This audiobook starts the night before The Gleaning, a deadly tournament in the Kingdom of Aurora. As a human amongst immortals, you have your work cut out to survive the tournament, but you’re not worried (you’re tough!). 

You meet Rowan, a fae prince determined to keep you safe, which is so annoying (you both made it to the same competition, so it’s not like you’re completely helpless!). But if you’re annoyed about Rowan’s protective streak, that’s *nothing* compared to how he feels about it. And really, is there anything better than a tortured immortal falling in love with a human and being really irritated by it?

Once you finish all 13 chapters, check out the [behind the scenes of how “Wings of Winter” came to life](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/the-making-of-wings-of-winter/)!

__Find even more [fantasy romance](https://www.dipseastories.com/tags/fantasy-tag/) favorites on Dipsea, the app for original spicy audiobooks and more. Sign up for a [30-day free trial](https://www.dipseastories.com/subscribe/?f=2&promo=signup30d) to find the perfect story for any mood!__

Whether you liked the enemies-to-lovers trope, Xaden’s dark side, or the heart-pounding gauntlet, these books like “Fourth Wing” will keep the fun going.

12 books to read when you’re done with “Fourth Wing”

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

Dipsea | Blog

Audiobooks are a great way to sneak in a little reading time into a packed schedule. Stuck commuting? Swap your favorite podcast for an audiobook! Making dinner? Audiobook time! On a hot girl walk? You guessed it—grab your earbuds and queue up a spicy audiobook.

From theatrical dramatizations that are like a movie for your ears to [full cast audiobooks](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/full-cast-audiobooks/) to single narrator stories, there’s no bad way to consume an audiobook. From contemporary romance to [fantasy epics](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/romantasy-books/), it’s easy to find a love story for any listener.

The key to a good spicy audiobook is walking the fine line between the steam we love and the storylines and characters that make us swoon. Grab your headphones and get your playlist ready to go, because these audiobooks check every box!

## 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)

Tyler is a priest who finds himself in a tough situation: He’s incredibly attracted to Poppy, a new member of his congregation. As a priest, he’s expressly forbidden from marrying, but that doesn’t stop him from breaking his vow of celibacy...on the altar of his own church (whoops!).

This is one spicy audiobook, so prepare yourself! Once you finish, you can dive right back into the series with “[Sinner](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/38233153-sinner)” and “[Saint](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/58131787-saint).”

## 2. “[The Local](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/the-local-series/)” by Dipsea
![The-Local-by-Dipsea](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/1NA7sd81KwhSeSHsnkQYn6/315dbbc315a9093cfb5b7b0194cd3a0c/The-Local-by-Dipsea.jpg)

If there was ever a place for an Irish accent to shine, it’s an audiobook and “The Local” is no exception!

American college student Sabrina is just looking for a quiet place to study. The bustling pub downstairs is distracting, and Killian, the bar’s infuriatingly handsome (and irritating!) bartender even more so. 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 spicy [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. Grab your headphones and dive head-first into this world!

## 3. “[Unravel Me](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/199913897-unravel-me?ref=nav_sb_ss_3_5)” by Becka Mack
![Unravel-Me-by-Becka-Mack](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/sZuZgrqxZnDEPERqFZkB8/86101b40c5416209a77e6de0468ca145/Unravel-Me-by-Becka-Mack.jpg)

Adam is the star goalie for the Vancouver Vipers but all he wants is for someone to love *him*, and not his massive paycheck (Taylor Swift’s “The Prophecy” was written for Adam and you cannot convince me otherwise!). Watching all his friends fall in love while going on date after date has him feeling more hopelessly single than ever.

Single mom and vet student Rosie is minding her own business on a walk through the forest when she gets mowed down by Bear, Adam’s massive teddy bear of a dog. Their woodsy meet-cute catches them both off guard and before long, their sweet flirtation turns into a steamy romance for the ages.

It’s the third in the series, and while you can read it as a standalone, this whole series is sweet, spicy, swoony perfection, so I recommend reading them all! The characters in this series are so funny and the banter is top-tier, which makes for an incredible listening experience. As an added bonus, the women in this series love romance books and especially love listening to their spicy stories via audiobook (main characters—they’re just like us!).

## 4. “[Forbidden Fruit](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/forbidden-fruit-series/)” by Dipsea
![Forbidden-Fruit](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/6sHvw58Sn5quED9g38Qkmw/f98e30338533406710145e6170386992/Forbidden-Fruit.jpg)

In this retelling of everyone’s favorite forbidden love story, Persephone has just been inducted into the Pantheon, which is all she’s wanted. She ducks out from the party (it was getting rowdy) and meets Hades, who shows her what a different life could be like. The series alternates between Persephone’s time in Mount Olympus and the Underworld and we get a front row seat as she learns what it is she truly wants and where she belongs.

The story is spread out over six chapters and then there’s bonus content, where you, the listener, take over the main role as Persephone. This series is an immersive and captivating listen—I was hooked from the first minute! It’s romantic, mystical, and spicy—what more could you ask for?

## 5. “[Terms and Conditions](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/86767939-terms-and-conditions?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=JuMD6h1a24&rank=1)” by Lauren Asher
![Terms-and-Conditions-by-Lauren-Asher](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/166UtzHlDDOpyH5CNO2NsZ/5bde46c5d7032801aa393289e60cc159/Terms-and-Conditions-by-Lauren-Asher.jpg)

In order to receive his hefty inheritance, Declan has to get married and have a child. A billionaire executive at Dreamland, he’s a workaholic bachelor with no prospects on the horizon. Marriage of convenience trope to the rescue!

After Declan’s would-be fake fiancée flakes out at the last minute, his assistant Iris steps up to the plate. She’s worked with Declan for years and is a pro at navigating his wild schedule and cranky moods. Sure, there’s a bit of an age gap (12 years to be exact) but no one knows how to wrangle Declan like Iris. But the more time they spend together—and the more they try to sell their relationship—the more the line between what’s real and what’s pretend starts to blur.

It’s the second of the excellent Dreamland series (the Kane brothers are chef’s kiss!) but you can read it as a standalone if your TBR doesn’t have room for the whole series.

## 6. “[A Not So Meet Cute](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/58995736-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)

Need another series about a trio of billionaire brothers with the last name Kane/Cane? Do I have a treat for you!

Lottie is on a mission to find herself a rich husband (a relatable queen) on a hot girl walk through Beverly Hills when she runs smack into Huxley Cane. The billionaire businessman is struggling to close a deal and in a last-ditch effort to seem relatable, said he was engaged to the love of his life. The problem? He’s super single.

Desperate to save his deal, Huxley convinces Lottie to be his fake fiancée. It would be an easy sell if Lottie wasn’t constantly landing them in situations where they have to act nauseatingly in love. Their chemistry is off the charts and what started out fake starts to feel very real.

It’s the first in the series and exists in the broader Meghan Quinn universe (be prepared to say hello to some other favorite Quinn characters!).

## 7. “[All American](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/all-american-series/)” by Dipsea
![All-American-by-Dipsea](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/5ydVC5wpE6JsXI8H0LSNp5/337541bfd215971171d0d2709fa4efd2/All-American-by-Dipsea.jpg)

An A-list celebrity and a charming, charismatic football player? Sign me up!

After a hard breakup, actress Harper flees Los Angeles for the grit and chaos of New York City. Between healing her broken heart and training for the role of a lifetime, love isn’t on Harper’s radar whatsoever. When she’s invited by an SNL cast member friend to an afterparty, she tags along (she needed a chance to shine, can you blame her?) and meets Logan, the host of that night’s show and NFL star.

What starts as a casual conversation turns into a very public kiss. Caught in a paparazzi whirlwind, Harper and Logan get even closer.

If you love a [good sports romance](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/sports-romance-books/) (and who doesn't??) you’ll love this! This is a four-chapter series, making these short stories the perfect palate cleanser between longer listens. 

## 8. “[A Court of Thorns and Roses](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/50659467-a-court-of-thorns-and-roses)” by Sarah J. Maas
![A-Court-of-Thorns-and-Roses](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/2ncJE7Lhc1uNEA9FQVFfC5/e869d795b771ca8351bf6c16b7c66a5f/A-Court-of-Thorns-and-Roses.jpg)

Sure, maybe you’ve already *read* “A Court of Thorns and Roses” (or ACOTAR, as fans call it) but have you *listened* to it? This is a five-star series any way you consume it, but it really shines in audiobook format!

Feyre, a human, is hunting near the border of her world to keep her family from starving. She kills a wolf, but before she can get back to her family, she’s kidnapped by Tamlin, a faerie, and dragged to an enemy land. The wolf she killed was actually a faerie and now she’s facing the consequences.

Clocking in at just over 16 hours, this audiobook is a commitment but it’s perfect for when you want to get lost in the book world. If you *really* want to immerse yourself, give the [dramatized version](https://www.audible.com/pd/A-Court-of-Thorns-and-Roses-Part-1-of-2-Dramatized-Adaptation-Audiobook/B09V5PW83R) a try! 

When you’re done, check out our [list of books like ACOTAR](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/books-like-a-court-of-thorns-and-roses/) for similar vibes.

## 9. “[Done and Dusted](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/123179008-done-and-dusted)” by Lyla Sage
![Done-and-Dusted-by-Lyla-Sage](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/yZWrj6jkW2Nqh0TSBLuYD/9cf9f72ac5d1d73f05a3240b15f1f8c9/Done-and-Dusted-by-Lyla-Sage.jpg)

If you’re looking for a book that has it all ([cowboys](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/cowboy-romance/), the brother’s best friend trope, and steam), then do I have the audiobook for you!

An accident has left barrel racer Emmy afraid to get back in the saddle (literally and figuratively) so she leaves Denver to go back to her family’s ranch in her tiny hometown.

Meadowlark is the last place Emmy expected to find herself. Still, she’s grateful to be around her friends and family. Even if that group includes the infuriating Luke Brooks, her brother’s best friend.

As Emmy works through her fears about coming back to barrel racing, she surprises herself by turning to Luke for advice and support. The way they go from irritating each other to forming a deep, unbreakable connection is so sweet. 

## 10. “[Fangirl Down](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/150343880-fangirl-down?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_12)” by Tessa Bailey
![Fangirl-Down-by-Tessa-Bailey](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/54CdOXIYOfTMKHLTPRNSUB/2c87217607337036115cd04ab240a3fb/Fangirl-Down-by-Tessa-Bailey.jpg)

Fangirls, this one's for you!

Wells was golf’s rising star, but now he’s on a losing streak and his gruff exterior has driven away all his fans—except for one. She’s always there, cheering him on but when he suddenly (and dramatically) quits, even she packs it in and goes home.

Josephine believed in Wells and was disappointed to watch him call it quits. So when he shows up at her door with a proposal to have her as his new caddy to help him turn his game around (and split the prize winnings), it’s a no-brainer.

This audiobook is steamy, classic Tessa Bailey perfection. Run, don’t walk!

## 11. “[On the Apps](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/on-the-apps-series/)” by Dipsea
![On-the-Apps-by-Dipsea](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/7lln3eMkxTO8nEJ2meLTiW/621ac168b65b60a18e896537813d0cdf/On-the-Apps-by-Dipsea.jpg)

When Dave finds himself newly single, he does what any reasonable person does: head to the apps. While he’s never been an online dating kind of guy, he finds himself rethinking things after matching with Aviva. 

When one steamy night turns into another, Dave finds himself navigating the challenges of modern dating and single life while falling for Aviva.

Each chapter in this series is about 6-10 minutes long, making this a bingeable series!

## 12. “[Twisted Lies](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60217302-twisted-lies?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_12)” by Ana Huang
![Twisted-Lies-by-Ana-Huang](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/5dgWHsuGCjhioI7KpXtEA1/873d8ca97d29ad71db2105ffa33a344c/Twisted-Lies-by-Ana-Huang.jpg)

When Stella’s stalker reappears after a long period of silence, she’s downright terrified. Living on her own (even though she’s in one of D.C.’s safest buildings) makes her feel even more vulnerable.

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!) so he proposes that they pretend to date to force her stalker to back off. But Stella’s stalker is determined and as he increases his antics to get to her, she finds herself retreating further into the arms of Christian, who will do anything to protect her.

This is the fourth book in the Twisted series, but it can be read as a standalone. [Popular audiobook narrators](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/best-audiobook-narrators/) Cindy Kay and Aiden Snow team up as narrators for the whole series, and their chemistry is off the charts, so you’re in for a treat if you decide to listen to the full series.

__If you liked these steamy audiobook recommendations, check out even more options on the Dipsea app. [Sign up for a 30-day free trial](https://www.dipseastories.com/subscribe/?f=2&promo=signup30d) and get lost in any of [Dipsea’s collection](https://www.dipseastories.com/) of original swoon-worthy and spicy audiobooks.__

Audiobooks are a great way to sneak in a little reading time into a packed schedule. Stuck commuting? Swap your favorite podcast for an audiobook! Making dinner? Audiobook time! On a hot girl walk? You guessed it—grab your earbuds and queue up a spicy audiobook.

From theatrical dramatizations that are like a movie for your ears to [full cast audiobooks](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/full-cast-audiobooks/) to single narrator stories, there’s no bad way to consume an audiobook. From contemporary romance to [fantasy epics](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/romantasy-books/), it’s easy to find a love story for any listener.

The key to a good spicy audiobook is walking the fine line between the steam we love and the storylines and characters that make us swoon. Grab your headphones and get your playlist ready to go, because these audiobooks check every box!

## 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)

Tyler is a priest who finds himself in a tough situation: He’s incredibly attracted to Poppy, a new member of his congregation. As a priest, he’s expressly forbidden from marrying, but that doesn’t stop him from breaking his vow of celibacy...on the altar of his own church (whoops!).

This is one spicy audiobook, so prepare yourself! Once you finish, you can dive right back into the series with “[Sinner](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/38233153-sinner)” and “[Saint](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/58131787-saint).”

## 2. “[The Local](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/the-local-series/)” by Dipsea
![The-Local-by-Dipsea](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/1NA7sd81KwhSeSHsnkQYn6/315dbbc315a9093cfb5b7b0194cd3a0c/The-Local-by-Dipsea.jpg)

If there was ever a place for an Irish accent to shine, it’s an audiobook and “The Local” is no exception!

American college student Sabrina is just looking for a quiet place to study. The bustling pub downstairs is distracting, and Killian, the bar’s infuriatingly handsome (and irritating!) bartender even more so. 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 spicy [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. Grab your headphones and dive head-first into this world!

## 3. “[Unravel Me](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/199913897-unravel-me?ref=nav_sb_ss_3_5)” by Becka Mack
![Unravel-Me-by-Becka-Mack](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/sZuZgrqxZnDEPERqFZkB8/86101b40c5416209a77e6de0468ca145/Unravel-Me-by-Becka-Mack.jpg)

Adam is the star goalie for the Vancouver Vipers but all he wants is for someone to love *him*, and not his massive paycheck (Taylor Swift’s “The Prophecy” was written for Adam and you cannot convince me otherwise!). Watching all his friends fall in love while going on date after date has him feeling more hopelessly single than ever.

Single mom and vet student Rosie is minding her own business on a walk through the forest when she gets mowed down by Bear, Adam’s massive teddy bear of a dog. Their woodsy meet-cute catches them both off guard and before long, their sweet flirtation turns into a steamy romance for the ages.

It’s the third in the series, and while you can read it as a standalone, this whole series is sweet, spicy, swoony perfection, so I recommend reading them all! The characters in this series are so funny and the banter is top-tier, which makes for an incredible listening experience. As an added bonus, the women in this series love romance books and especially love listening to their spicy stories via audiobook (main characters—they’re just like us!).

## 4. “[Forbidden Fruit](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/forbidden-fruit-series/)” by Dipsea
![Forbidden-Fruit](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/6sHvw58Sn5quED9g38Qkmw/f98e30338533406710145e6170386992/Forbidden-Fruit.jpg)

In this retelling of everyone’s favorite forbidden love story, Persephone has just been inducted into the Pantheon, which is all she’s wanted. She ducks out from the party (it was getting rowdy) and meets Hades, who shows her what a different life could be like. The series alternates between Persephone’s time in Mount Olympus and the Underworld and we get a front row seat as she learns what it is she truly wants and where she belongs.

The story is spread out over six chapters and then there’s bonus content, where you, the listener, take over the main role as Persephone. This series is an immersive and captivating listen—I was hooked from the first minute! It’s romantic, mystical, and spicy—what more could you ask for?

## 5. “[Terms and Conditions](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/86767939-terms-and-conditions?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=JuMD6h1a24&rank=1)” by Lauren Asher
![Terms-and-Conditions-by-Lauren-Asher](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/166UtzHlDDOpyH5CNO2NsZ/5bde46c5d7032801aa393289e60cc159/Terms-and-Conditions-by-Lauren-Asher.jpg)

In order to receive his hefty inheritance, Declan has to get married and have a child. A billionaire executive at Dreamland, he’s a workaholic bachelor with no prospects on the horizon. Marriage of convenience trope to the rescue!

After Declan’s would-be fake fiancée flakes out at the last minute, his assistant Iris steps up to the plate. She’s worked with Declan for years and is a pro at navigating his wild schedule and cranky moods. Sure, there’s a bit of an age gap (12 years to be exact) but no one knows how to wrangle Declan like Iris. But the more time they spend together—and the more they try to sell their relationship—the more the line between what’s real and what’s pretend starts to blur.

It’s the second of the excellent Dreamland series (the Kane brothers are chef’s kiss!) but you can read it as a standalone if your TBR doesn’t have room for the whole series.

## 6. “[A Not So Meet Cute](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/58995736-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)

Need another series about a trio of billionaire brothers with the last name Kane/Cane? Do I have a treat for you!

Lottie is on a mission to find herself a rich husband (a relatable queen) on a hot girl walk through Beverly Hills when she runs smack into Huxley Cane. The billionaire businessman is struggling to close a deal and in a last-ditch effort to seem relatable, said he was engaged to the love of his life. The problem? He’s super single.

Desperate to save his deal, Huxley convinces Lottie to be his fake fiancée. It would be an easy sell if Lottie wasn’t constantly landing them in situations where they have to act nauseatingly in love. Their chemistry is off the charts and what started out fake starts to feel very real.

It’s the first in the series and exists in the broader Meghan Quinn universe (be prepared to say hello to some other favorite Quinn characters!).

## 7. “[All American](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/all-american-series/)” by Dipsea
![All-American-by-Dipsea](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/5ydVC5wpE6JsXI8H0LSNp5/337541bfd215971171d0d2709fa4efd2/All-American-by-Dipsea.jpg)

An A-list celebrity and a charming, charismatic football player? Sign me up!

After a hard breakup, actress Harper flees Los Angeles for the grit and chaos of New York City. Between healing her broken heart and training for the role of a lifetime, love isn’t on Harper’s radar whatsoever. When she’s invited by an SNL cast member friend to an afterparty, she tags along (she needed a chance to shine, can you blame her?) and meets Logan, the host of that night’s show and NFL star.

What starts as a casual conversation turns into a very public kiss. Caught in a paparazzi whirlwind, Harper and Logan get even closer.

If you love a [good sports romance](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/sports-romance-books/) (and who doesn't??) you’ll love this! This is a four-chapter series, making these short stories the perfect palate cleanser between longer listens. 

## 8. “[A Court of Thorns and Roses](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/50659467-a-court-of-thorns-and-roses)” by Sarah J. Maas
![A-Court-of-Thorns-and-Roses](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/2ncJE7Lhc1uNEA9FQVFfC5/e869d795b771ca8351bf6c16b7c66a5f/A-Court-of-Thorns-and-Roses.jpg)

Sure, maybe you’ve already *read* “A Court of Thorns and Roses” (or ACOTAR, as fans call it) but have you *listened* to it? This is a five-star series any way you consume it, but it really shines in audiobook format!

Feyre, a human, is hunting near the border of her world to keep her family from starving. She kills a wolf, but before she can get back to her family, she’s kidnapped by Tamlin, a faerie, and dragged to an enemy land. The wolf she killed was actually a faerie and now she’s facing the consequences.

Clocking in at just over 16 hours, this audiobook is a commitment but it’s perfect for when you want to get lost in the book world. If you *really* want to immerse yourself, give the [dramatized version](https://www.audible.com/pd/A-Court-of-Thorns-and-Roses-Part-1-of-2-Dramatized-Adaptation-Audiobook/B09V5PW83R) a try! 

When you’re done, check out our [list of books like ACOTAR](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/books-like-a-court-of-thorns-and-roses/) for similar vibes.

## 9. “[Done and Dusted](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/123179008-done-and-dusted)” by Lyla Sage
![Done-and-Dusted-by-Lyla-Sage](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/yZWrj6jkW2Nqh0TSBLuYD/9cf9f72ac5d1d73f05a3240b15f1f8c9/Done-and-Dusted-by-Lyla-Sage.jpg)

If you’re looking for a book that has it all ([cowboys](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/cowboy-romance/), the brother’s best friend trope, and steam), then do I have the audiobook for you!

An accident has left barrel racer Emmy afraid to get back in the saddle (literally and figuratively) so she leaves Denver to go back to her family’s ranch in her tiny hometown.

Meadowlark is the last place Emmy expected to find herself. Still, she’s grateful to be around her friends and family. Even if that group includes the infuriating Luke Brooks, her brother’s best friend.

As Emmy works through her fears about coming back to barrel racing, she surprises herself by turning to Luke for advice and support. The way they go from irritating each other to forming a deep, unbreakable connection is so sweet. 

## 10. “[Fangirl Down](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/150343880-fangirl-down?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_12)” by Tessa Bailey
![Fangirl-Down-by-Tessa-Bailey](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/54CdOXIYOfTMKHLTPRNSUB/2c87217607337036115cd04ab240a3fb/Fangirl-Down-by-Tessa-Bailey.jpg)

Fangirls, this one's for you!

Wells was golf’s rising star, but now he’s on a losing streak and his gruff exterior has driven away all his fans—except for one. She’s always there, cheering him on but when he suddenly (and dramatically) quits, even she packs it in and goes home.

Josephine believed in Wells and was disappointed to watch him call it quits. So when he shows up at her door with a proposal to have her as his new caddy to help him turn his game around (and split the prize winnings), it’s a no-brainer.

This audiobook is steamy, classic Tessa Bailey perfection. Run, don’t walk!

## 11. “[On the Apps](https://www.dipseastories.com/audiobooks/on-the-apps-series/)” by Dipsea
![On-the-Apps-by-Dipsea](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/7lln3eMkxTO8nEJ2meLTiW/621ac168b65b60a18e896537813d0cdf/On-the-Apps-by-Dipsea.jpg)

When Dave finds himself newly single, he does what any reasonable person does: head to the apps. While he’s never been an online dating kind of guy, he finds himself rethinking things after matching with Aviva. 

When one steamy night turns into another, Dave finds himself navigating the challenges of modern dating and single life while falling for Aviva.

Each chapter in this series is about 6-10 minutes long, making this a bingeable series!

## 12. “[Twisted Lies](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60217302-twisted-lies?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_12)” by Ana Huang
![Twisted-Lies-by-Ana-Huang](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/5dgWHsuGCjhioI7KpXtEA1/873d8ca97d29ad71db2105ffa33a344c/Twisted-Lies-by-Ana-Huang.jpg)

When Stella’s stalker reappears after a long period of silence, she’s downright terrified. Living on her own (even though she’s in one of D.C.’s safest buildings) makes her feel even more vulnerable.

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!) so he proposes that they pretend to date to force her stalker to back off. But Stella’s stalker is determined and as he increases his antics to get to her, she finds herself retreating further into the arms of Christian, who will do anything to protect her.

This is the fourth book in the Twisted series, but it can be read as a standalone. [Popular audiobook narrators](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/best-audiobook-narrators/) Cindy Kay and Aiden Snow team up as narrators for the whole series, and their chemistry is off the charts, so you’re in for a treat if you decide to listen to the full series.

__If you liked these steamy audiobook recommendations, check out even more options on the Dipsea app. [Sign up for a 30-day free trial](https://www.dipseastories.com/subscribe/?f=2&promo=signup30d) and get lost in any of [Dipsea’s collection](https://www.dipseastories.com/) of original swoon-worthy and spicy audiobooks.__

Put on your headphones and get ready for a steamy walk-and-read with these popular, addictive spicy audiobooks (shorter ones included!).

12 spicy audiobooks to press play on right now

woman-using-her-phone-and-earphones

*Header artwork by [Rokii](https://www.instagram.com/artworks_by_rokii/p/C4S3yVGLVT0/?img_index=1)*

Rhysand from Sarah J. Maas' "A Court of Thorns and Roses" series has become one of the most beloved (and sometimes the most polarizing) characters in modern fantasy. Much more than your typical dark, brooding hero, the High Lord of the Night Court balances immense power with vulnerability, charm with intensity, and devoted love with ambition.

By the way, major spoilers ahead for the entire series, so please, enter at your own risk. Definitely do not read this guide if you’re not finished with at least book two: “A Court of Mist & Fury.”

## How do you pronounce Rhysand from ACOTAR?
Rhysand is pronounced Ree-sand. Not Rye-sand. Rhys is pronounced Reese, like Witherspoon. I figured I’d get that out of the way immediately.

Many a reader on Reddit and TikTok initially say it as “Rice” in their heads and [have a hard time letting go of that](https://www.tiktok.com/@faye.ruble.writes/video/7353374881997655339?q=rhys%20rice%20acotar&t=1727819279813) once they learn the right pronunciation.

## Who is Rhysand from ACOTAR?
Rhysand, often called Rhys, is introduced in “A Court of Thorns and Roses” (aka ACOTAR) as a powerful and enigmatic figure. He’s initially positioned as an antagonist, but as the story progresses, it becomes clear that Rhys is far from a traditional villain. 

As the High Lord of the Night Court, he is one of the most feared and powerful leaders of the seven courts in Prythian, a fae realm divided into various courts that each hold dominion over different aspects of the natural world. Rhys’ Night Court is known for its beauty, mystery, and perceived danger, much like the character himself. I’d tell you not to let his devilish good looks fool you, but he can in fact be a little...well, devilish.

Rhys’s grasp on a seemingly endless well of powerful magic isn’t the only thing that makes him dangerous, though. His ability to manipulate situations to his benefit is one of the many reasons most other Prythian creatures regard him as shadowy and untrustworthy. On top of that, he’s ceaselessly charming and a shameless flirt. A pretty easy thing to be when you look like Rhysand.

The first time Feyre sets eyes on him, she thinks that he’s “the most beautiful man I’d ever seen,” and goes on to describe him as having “black hair [that] gleamed like a raven’s feathers” and “blue eyes so deep they were violet.” Paints quite the picture, doesn’t it? The fan art sure does. But beneath the surface, he is an incredibly layered character, harboring deep trauma from his past and burdened by the responsibilities of his court.

## Let’s start with the Night Court
While the Night Court is feared and shrouded in mystery by most of Prythian, it’s also one of the most beautiful and complex courts, divided into two parts. The first is the feared Hewn City, also known as the Court of Nightmares, and it’s this portion of the Night Court that other residents of Prythian know best. 

The darkness and brutality found here, in a complex city carved inside of an ancient mountain, is what everyone outside of the Night Court assumes the entire court must be like. It’s a place of cruelty, decadence, and manipulation, and it’s a city Rhysand is often forced to use to maintain his power and control.

But just as Rhys’s most closely held secret is his innate goodness, the court he rules hides something very different from the Hewn City.

![Night-Court](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/52KYSw4XJYC9GCSbi1wVgh/f76fe9ecb8093497666196bb032a8a54/Night-Court.jpg)
*Artwork by [SeciaArt](https://www.instagram.com/seciaart/)*

Velaris, the Court of Dreams and the City of Starlight, is a place of beauty, peace, art, and freedom. This hidden gem has been kept secret from the rest of Prythian for centuries. The city’s protection is one of Rhys’s top priorities, and it serves as a sanctuary for those he trusts. 

The people of Hewn City are largely unaware of Rhysand’s true nature and see him as a ruthless and cold leader, which is a mask he wears to protect the people he loves. On the other hand, the people of Velaris see a much more honest and endearing ruler.

## Who’s who in Rhys’s Inner Circle

![Rhys-Amren-Morrigan-Cassian-Azriel-and-Feyre](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/4o6SQz20UGul06bLTozY1L/e0ffdc0ee39662a3d2fa52a46046dba6/Rhys-Amren-Morrigan-Cassian-Azriel-and-Feyre.jpg)
*Artwork by [Charlie Bowater](https://www.instagram.com/charliebowater)*

Speaking of those who see the best of him, we can’t talk about Rhys without talking about his friends. The Inner Circle refers to a tight-knit group of Night Court comrades who serve as his closest friends and advisors.

First, there’s __Amren__, Rhysand’s second-in-command. Amren is a unique and ancient creature trapped in a High Fae body, and while she often seems cold and intimidating, her loyalty to Rhysand and Velaris is unmatched.

Next is __Morrigan__, often called “Mor.” Third-in-command of the Night Court, Mor is both a skilled warrior and a compassionate friend. Mor’s confidence, charm, and unwavering loyalty make her an essential figure in the Night Court, though there’s a tragic past lurking under all that bravado.

General of the Night Court’s armies, __Cassian__ is Rhys’s fiercest warrior and brother-in-arms.
Known for his easy humor as well as his strength, Cassian grew up in poverty and was trained as an Illyrian warrior, which shaped him into the fearsome soldier he is.

Quiet, reserved, mysterious __Azriel__ is the spymaster of the Night Court. A rare “shadow singer” who can communicate with the darkness itself, he is an expert at gathering information. (And it doesn’t hurt that he’s also well-versed in the art of torture.) Despite a pretty aloof demeanor, Azriel is deeply loyal to his friends and definitely has his lighthearted moments.

Finally, there’s __Feyre__ Archeron. Though she doesn’t join the Night Court until later in the second book of the series, Feyre becomes one of the Inner Circle’s most crucial members. As Rhysand’s fated mate and High Lady of the Night Court, Feyre’s bravery and resilience help shape the court’s future.

## Okay, back to Rhys—what else makes readers love him so much?
Rhysand is a character of contrasts. On the surface, he is charming and sometimes arrogant, feared by most and respected by many. Underneath, Rhysand is deeply caring and compassionate, willing to sacrifice everything for those closest to him. This duality—being both the fierce ruler and the gentle protector—makes him compelling.

His decisions, especially in the first book, often seem questionable, but as the series unfolds, his actions are revealed to be more altruistic than they initially appeared. For instance, his manipulations in the Spring Court and his seemingly antagonistic behavior toward Feyre have deeper motivations rooted in protecting his people and Feyre herself from greater harm. (Though we’ll go ahead and acknowledge that his open animosity towards Tamlin is very real—and very justifiable.)

Unlike many High Lords in Prythian, who treat their female counterparts as inferior, Rhys sees women as his equals. He does what he can to support Feyre even while she is romantically entangled with Tamlin, encouraging her to embrace her strength and make her own choices. His respect for women’s autonomy, particularly in a world where power dynamics are so often skewed against them, extends to his choice to position Mor and Amren as his court’s highest guardians in his absence.

![Rhys-and-Feyre](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/1cIRGyes6k5GeHnBRFl7qi/3014fd44d210e2156935ab2d10dffb1a/Rhys-and-Feyre.jpg)
*Artwork by [Charlie Bowater](https://www.instagram.com/charliebowater)*

Additionally, Rhysand’s love for Feyre is one of the most significant aspects of his character. While their romance doesn’t even start until book two, the depth of his feelings and his unwavering support for her is a constant. He prioritizes Feyre's needs and growth, ensuring that she never feels trapped or lesser for being with him, and he *loves* encouraging her strength, never intimidated by or afraid of her ever-growing powers. We love a secure king.

## The High Lord’s journey
Rhysand’s arc throughout the series is one of transformation and revelation. His introduction in book one, [“A Court of Thorns and Roses,”](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/50659467-a-court-of-thorns-and-roses) is both thrilling and ominous. Readers are immediately unsure of where his loyalties lie, and his following interactions with Feyre are fraught with tension, leaving readers to question his motives. 

By the time Feyre journeys Under the Mountain to rescue Tamlin and face Amarantha, the villainess who has had Prythian in her thrall for the past 50 years, Rhys is a bit of an outlier. He bets on her to win against the fearsome Middengard Wyrm, mends her broken arm, and ensures her safety, but he does it all under the guise of selfishness and manipulation. We’re left to wonder what he really wants.

However, as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that Rhysand’s role is nothing if not complex. Despite his apparent disregard for the well-being of others, he fights to save Feyre’s life at the end of ACOTAR (before he even feels their mating bond snap into place). 

By the second book, [“A Court of Mist and Fury”](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/50659468-a-court-of-mist-and-fury) (ACOMAF), SJM pulls back the curtain on Rhys’s true nature. He emerges not only as Feyre’s love interest but also as a protector and secret ally to the rest of Prythian. His relationship with his Inner Circle highlights his loyalty and his willingness to sacrifice for the greater good. ACOMAF is where readers are introduced to the beloved “bat boys,” aptly named by the fandom for their bat-like and membranous wings. (And yes, there are plenty of wisecracks regarding wing * ahem * *size*...)

![ACOTAR-ACOMAF-ACOWAR-ACOFAS-ACOSF](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/1SraidozyOCd8az8bN6MRe/7d460d2c03fdd0df8b0d4c02f9fd4795/ACOTAR-ACOMAF-ACOWAR-ACOFAS-ACOSF.jpg)
*Photo by Bloomsbury Publishing*

By book three, [“A Court of Wings and Ruin”](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/50659472-a-court-of-wings-and-ruin) (ACOWAR), Rhysand’s growth reaches a peak as he faces enormous threats, both personally and politically. His role as the High Lord of the Night Court places him at the center of pivotal battles and decisions that will shape the future of Prythian. He must balance his love for Feyre with the needs of his court and his people, often making difficult and painful choices to protect those he cares about. 

Then, in the cute, cozy, and battle-free novella [“A Court of Frost and Starlight”](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/50659471-a-court-of-frost-and-starlight) (ACOFAS), Rhys, Feyre, and the rest of the Night Court finally get to enjoy some downtime, even as they struggle with what comes next following a brutal battle that brings some serious dangers to light.

Book four, [“A Court of Silver Flames”](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/53138095-a-court-of-silver-flames) (ACOSF), focuses far less on Rhys, and in fact, paints him in a very different light. The narrator switches to Nesta, Feyre’s sister, and the focus turns to her story. While Rhys welcomes both of his mate’s sisters into his court, he fares much better building a friendly relationship with mild-mannered Elain than he does with temperamental Nesta.

Throughout the series, Rhysand’s motivations become far clearer. His primary drive is to ensure the safety and prosperity of his court, his friends, and his High Lady. Willing to play the villain in the eyes of others to achieve this, his actions are always guided by a deep sense of responsibility and love. He is not a one-dimensional hero or love interest. Instead, he is flawed, and at times, morally ambiguous. 

That said, Rhysand’s personal evolution from a character shrouded in mystery to a leader who wears his heart on his sleeve is one of the most rewarding aspects of the series. No wonder [BookTok loves him](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/spicy-booktok/). So do we!

## Cure your post-ACOTAR reading slump
If you’ve blown through this series and are craving more faeries, romantasy, and adventure, check out [our list of what to read after ACOTAR](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/books-like-a-court-of-thorns-and-roses/).

*Header artwork by [Rokii](https://www.instagram.com/artworks_by_rokii/p/C4S3yVGLVT0/?img_index=1)*

Rhysand from Sarah J. Maas' "A Court of Thorns and Roses" series has become one of the most beloved (and sometimes the most polarizing) characters in modern fantasy. Much more than your typical dark, brooding hero, the High Lord of the Night Court balances immense power with vulnerability, charm with intensity, and devoted love with ambition.

By the way, major spoilers ahead for the entire series, so please, enter at your own risk. Definitely do not read this guide if you’re not finished with at least book two: “A Court of Mist & Fury.”

## How do you pronounce Rhysand from ACOTAR?
Rhysand is pronounced Ree-sand. Not Rye-sand. Rhys is pronounced Reese, like Witherspoon. I figured I’d get that out of the way immediately.

Many a reader on Reddit and TikTok initially say it as “Rice” in their heads and [have a hard time letting go of that](https://www.tiktok.com/@faye.ruble.writes/video/7353374881997655339?q=rhys%20rice%20acotar&t=1727819279813) once they learn the right pronunciation.

## Who is Rhysand from ACOTAR?
Rhysand, often called Rhys, is introduced in “A Court of Thorns and Roses” (aka ACOTAR) as a powerful and enigmatic figure. He’s initially positioned as an antagonist, but as the story progresses, it becomes clear that Rhys is far from a traditional villain. 

As the High Lord of the Night Court, he is one of the most feared and powerful leaders of the seven courts in Prythian, a fae realm divided into various courts that each hold dominion over different aspects of the natural world. Rhys’ Night Court is known for its beauty, mystery, and perceived danger, much like the character himself. I’d tell you not to let his devilish good looks fool you, but he can in fact be a little...well, devilish.

Rhys’s grasp on a seemingly endless well of powerful magic isn’t the only thing that makes him dangerous, though. His ability to manipulate situations to his benefit is one of the many reasons most other Prythian creatures regard him as shadowy and untrustworthy. On top of that, he’s ceaselessly charming and a shameless flirt. A pretty easy thing to be when you look like Rhysand.

The first time Feyre sets eyes on him, she thinks that he’s “the most beautiful man I’d ever seen,” and goes on to describe him as having “black hair [that] gleamed like a raven’s feathers” and “blue eyes so deep they were violet.” Paints quite the picture, doesn’t it? The fan art sure does. But beneath the surface, he is an incredibly layered character, harboring deep trauma from his past and burdened by the responsibilities of his court.

## Let’s start with the Night Court
While the Night Court is feared and shrouded in mystery by most of Prythian, it’s also one of the most beautiful and complex courts, divided into two parts. The first is the feared Hewn City, also known as the Court of Nightmares, and it’s this portion of the Night Court that other residents of Prythian know best. 

The darkness and brutality found here, in a complex city carved inside of an ancient mountain, is what everyone outside of the Night Court assumes the entire court must be like. It’s a place of cruelty, decadence, and manipulation, and it’s a city Rhysand is often forced to use to maintain his power and control.

But just as Rhys’s most closely held secret is his innate goodness, the court he rules hides something very different from the Hewn City.

![Night-Court](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/52KYSw4XJYC9GCSbi1wVgh/f76fe9ecb8093497666196bb032a8a54/Night-Court.jpg)
*Artwork by [SeciaArt](https://www.instagram.com/seciaart/)*

Velaris, the Court of Dreams and the City of Starlight, is a place of beauty, peace, art, and freedom. This hidden gem has been kept secret from the rest of Prythian for centuries. The city’s protection is one of Rhys’s top priorities, and it serves as a sanctuary for those he trusts. 

The people of Hewn City are largely unaware of Rhysand’s true nature and see him as a ruthless and cold leader, which is a mask he wears to protect the people he loves. On the other hand, the people of Velaris see a much more honest and endearing ruler.

## Who’s who in Rhys’s Inner Circle

![Rhys-Amren-Morrigan-Cassian-Azriel-and-Feyre](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/4o6SQz20UGul06bLTozY1L/e0ffdc0ee39662a3d2fa52a46046dba6/Rhys-Amren-Morrigan-Cassian-Azriel-and-Feyre.jpg)
*Artwork by [Charlie Bowater](https://www.instagram.com/charliebowater)*

Speaking of those who see the best of him, we can’t talk about Rhys without talking about his friends. The Inner Circle refers to a tight-knit group of Night Court comrades who serve as his closest friends and advisors.

First, there’s __Amren__, Rhysand’s second-in-command. Amren is a unique and ancient creature trapped in a High Fae body, and while she often seems cold and intimidating, her loyalty to Rhysand and Velaris is unmatched.

Next is __Morrigan__, often called “Mor.” Third-in-command of the Night Court, Mor is both a skilled warrior and a compassionate friend. Mor’s confidence, charm, and unwavering loyalty make her an essential figure in the Night Court, though there’s a tragic past lurking under all that bravado.

General of the Night Court’s armies, __Cassian__ is Rhys’s fiercest warrior and brother-in-arms.
Known for his easy humor as well as his strength, Cassian grew up in poverty and was trained as an Illyrian warrior, which shaped him into the fearsome soldier he is.

Quiet, reserved, mysterious __Azriel__ is the spymaster of the Night Court. A rare “shadow singer” who can communicate with the darkness itself, he is an expert at gathering information. (And it doesn’t hurt that he’s also well-versed in the art of torture.) Despite a pretty aloof demeanor, Azriel is deeply loyal to his friends and definitely has his lighthearted moments.

Finally, there’s __Feyre__ Archeron. Though she doesn’t join the Night Court until later in the second book of the series, Feyre becomes one of the Inner Circle’s most crucial members. As Rhysand’s fated mate and High Lady of the Night Court, Feyre’s bravery and resilience help shape the court’s future.

## Okay, back to Rhys—what else makes readers love him so much?
Rhysand is a character of contrasts. On the surface, he is charming and sometimes arrogant, feared by most and respected by many. Underneath, Rhysand is deeply caring and compassionate, willing to sacrifice everything for those closest to him. This duality—being both the fierce ruler and the gentle protector—makes him compelling.

His decisions, especially in the first book, often seem questionable, but as the series unfolds, his actions are revealed to be more altruistic than they initially appeared. For instance, his manipulations in the Spring Court and his seemingly antagonistic behavior toward Feyre have deeper motivations rooted in protecting his people and Feyre herself from greater harm. (Though we’ll go ahead and acknowledge that his open animosity towards Tamlin is very real—and very justifiable.)

Unlike many High Lords in Prythian, who treat their female counterparts as inferior, Rhys sees women as his equals. He does what he can to support Feyre even while she is romantically entangled with Tamlin, encouraging her to embrace her strength and make her own choices. His respect for women’s autonomy, particularly in a world where power dynamics are so often skewed against them, extends to his choice to position Mor and Amren as his court’s highest guardians in his absence.

![Rhys-and-Feyre](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/1cIRGyes6k5GeHnBRFl7qi/3014fd44d210e2156935ab2d10dffb1a/Rhys-and-Feyre.jpg)
*Artwork by [Charlie Bowater](https://www.instagram.com/charliebowater)*

Additionally, Rhysand’s love for Feyre is one of the most significant aspects of his character. While their romance doesn’t even start until book two, the depth of his feelings and his unwavering support for her is a constant. He prioritizes Feyre's needs and growth, ensuring that she never feels trapped or lesser for being with him, and he *loves* encouraging her strength, never intimidated by or afraid of her ever-growing powers. We love a secure king.

## The High Lord’s journey
Rhysand’s arc throughout the series is one of transformation and revelation. His introduction in book one, [“A Court of Thorns and Roses,”](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/50659467-a-court-of-thorns-and-roses) is both thrilling and ominous. Readers are immediately unsure of where his loyalties lie, and his following interactions with Feyre are fraught with tension, leaving readers to question his motives. 

By the time Feyre journeys Under the Mountain to rescue Tamlin and face Amarantha, the villainess who has had Prythian in her thrall for the past 50 years, Rhys is a bit of an outlier. He bets on her to win against the fearsome Middengard Wyrm, mends her broken arm, and ensures her safety, but he does it all under the guise of selfishness and manipulation. We’re left to wonder what he really wants.

However, as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that Rhysand’s role is nothing if not complex. Despite his apparent disregard for the well-being of others, he fights to save Feyre’s life at the end of ACOTAR (before he even feels their mating bond snap into place). 

By the second book, [“A Court of Mist and Fury”](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/50659468-a-court-of-mist-and-fury) (ACOMAF), SJM pulls back the curtain on Rhys’s true nature. He emerges not only as Feyre’s love interest but also as a protector and secret ally to the rest of Prythian. His relationship with his Inner Circle highlights his loyalty and his willingness to sacrifice for the greater good. ACOMAF is where readers are introduced to the beloved “bat boys,” aptly named by the fandom for their bat-like and membranous wings. (And yes, there are plenty of wisecracks regarding wing * ahem * *size*...)

![ACOTAR-ACOMAF-ACOWAR-ACOFAS-ACOSF](//images.ctfassets.net/03of3q5qzesq/1SraidozyOCd8az8bN6MRe/7d460d2c03fdd0df8b0d4c02f9fd4795/ACOTAR-ACOMAF-ACOWAR-ACOFAS-ACOSF.jpg)
*Photo by Bloomsbury Publishing*

By book three, [“A Court of Wings and Ruin”](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/50659472-a-court-of-wings-and-ruin) (ACOWAR), Rhysand’s growth reaches a peak as he faces enormous threats, both personally and politically. His role as the High Lord of the Night Court places him at the center of pivotal battles and decisions that will shape the future of Prythian. He must balance his love for Feyre with the needs of his court and his people, often making difficult and painful choices to protect those he cares about. 

Then, in the cute, cozy, and battle-free novella [“A Court of Frost and Starlight”](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/50659471-a-court-of-frost-and-starlight) (ACOFAS), Rhys, Feyre, and the rest of the Night Court finally get to enjoy some downtime, even as they struggle with what comes next following a brutal battle that brings some serious dangers to light.

Book four, [“A Court of Silver Flames”](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/53138095-a-court-of-silver-flames) (ACOSF), focuses far less on Rhys, and in fact, paints him in a very different light. The narrator switches to Nesta, Feyre’s sister, and the focus turns to her story. While Rhys welcomes both of his mate’s sisters into his court, he fares much better building a friendly relationship with mild-mannered Elain than he does with temperamental Nesta.

Throughout the series, Rhysand’s motivations become far clearer. His primary drive is to ensure the safety and prosperity of his court, his friends, and his High Lady. Willing to play the villain in the eyes of others to achieve this, his actions are always guided by a deep sense of responsibility and love. He is not a one-dimensional hero or love interest. Instead, he is flawed, and at times, morally ambiguous. 

That said, Rhysand’s personal evolution from a character shrouded in mystery to a leader who wears his heart on his sleeve is one of the most rewarding aspects of the series. No wonder [BookTok loves him](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/spicy-booktok/). So do we!

## Cure your post-ACOTAR reading slump
If you’ve blown through this series and are craving more faeries, romantasy, and adventure, check out [our list of what to read after ACOTAR](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/books-like-a-court-of-thorns-and-roses/).

Reader, darling…you can never have enough Rhysand. Get to know ACOTAR’s favorite bat boy and why he’s so beloved in this guide.

All about Rhysand, the High Lord from ACOTAR who stole readers’ hearts

rhysand-acotar

## The Hunt

Early 2025, Dipsea presents The Hunt, a spicy dark romance audiobook that blends forbidden attraction with ancient powers and dangerous secrets. For listeners who crave their romance with a supernatural edge and a dash of danger, this dark fantasy romance delivers an unforgettable journey into a hidden world of rituals, power, and passion.

### Where Mystery Meets Dark Romance

One year after her twin sister's mysterious disappearance, Vanessa breaks into a restricted wilderness preserve seeking answers. Instead, she stumbles upon an ancient ritual and catches the attention of Nolan—a powerful, dangerous guardian of supernatural secrets. What begins as a deadly encounter evolves into an intense attraction neither of them can resist, even as evil forces threaten to tear them apart.

### Dive Into Darkness
[Dark romance](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/what-is-dark-romance/) delves into the shadowier side of love, where danger and desire intertwine. It's a subgenre that explores complex relationships between morally gray characters, often pushing boundaries and featuring high-stakes emotional intensity. These stories aren't just about finding love—they're about the transformative power of passion in its most primal form.
*The Hunt* showcases beloved [dark romance tropes](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/dark-romance-tropes/), including:
- Enemies-to-lovers dynamics
- Forbidden attraction
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- High-stakes passion
- CW: Contains mature themes and content

### Coming Early 2025
The Hunt launches exclusively on Dipsea, February 28. If you love Tiffany Reisz's [The Siren](https://app.thestorygraph.com/books/42a56621-563b-4034-9470-0bbda3d55cfa), Sierra Simone's [Priest](https://app.thestorygraph.com/books/5b2d3e7a-5cdb-4aa5-a7a1-7c4c5c246e24), or Anna Zaires's [Twist Me series](https://app.thestorygraph.com/books/ebdd8d9a-9ee5-418c-af3b-67c12e99a9c9), this dark supernatural romance is your next must-listen. Perfect for anyone who craves their audiobooks with an extra dose of danger and forbidden desire.

[Try Dipsea for 30 days](https://www.dipseastories.com/subscribe/?f=2&promo=blog&utm_source=blog&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=the-hunt-coming-soon) to be among the first to experience this intoxicating blend of supernatural mystery and dark romance. Follow Dipsea's social channels for exclusive previews, behind-the-scenes content, character spotlights, and release updates.

## The Hunt

Early 2025, Dipsea presents The Hunt, a spicy dark romance audiobook that blends forbidden attraction with ancient powers and dangerous secrets. For listeners who crave their romance with a supernatural edge and a dash of danger, this dark fantasy romance delivers an unforgettable journey into a hidden world of rituals, power, and passion.

### Where Mystery Meets Dark Romance

One year after her twin sister's mysterious disappearance, Vanessa breaks into a restricted wilderness preserve seeking answers. Instead, she stumbles upon an ancient ritual and catches the attention of Nolan—a powerful, dangerous guardian of supernatural secrets. What begins as a deadly encounter evolves into an intense attraction neither of them can resist, even as evil forces threaten to tear them apart.

### Dive Into Darkness
[Dark romance](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/what-is-dark-romance/) delves into the shadowier side of love, where danger and desire intertwine. It's a subgenre that explores complex relationships between morally gray characters, often pushing boundaries and featuring high-stakes emotional intensity. These stories aren't just about finding love—they're about the transformative power of passion in its most primal form.
*The Hunt* showcases beloved [dark romance tropes](https://www.dipseastories.com/blog/dark-romance-tropes/), including:
- Enemies-to-lovers dynamics
- Forbidden attraction
- Complex power plays
- High-stakes passion
- CW: Contains mature themes and content


### Coming Early 2025
The Hunt launches exclusively on Dipsea, February 28. If you love Tiffany Reisz's [The Siren](https://app.thestorygraph.com/books/42a56621-563b-4034-9470-0bbda3d55cfa), Sierra Simone's [Priest](https://app.thestorygraph.com/books/5b2d3e7a-5cdb-4aa5-a7a1-7c4c5c246e24), or Anna Zaires's [Twist Me series](https://app.thestorygraph.com/books/ebdd8d9a-9ee5-418c-af3b-67c12e99a9c9), this dark supernatural romance is your next must-listen. Perfect for anyone who craves their audiobooks with an extra dose of danger and forbidden desire.

[Try Dipsea for 30 days](https://www.dipseastories.com/subscribe/?f=2&promo=blog&utm_source=blog&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=the-hunt-coming-soon) to be among the first to experience this intoxicating blend of supernatural mystery and dark romance. Follow Dipsea's social channels for exclusive previews, behind-the-scenes content, character spotlights, and release updates.

Dipsea’s “The Hunt” is a dark supernatural romance where forbidden attraction meets ancient powers. Perfect for fans of Tiffany Reisz and Sierra Simone.

The Hunt: A Dark Supernatural Romance Coming to Dipsea

The Hunt A Dark Supernatural Romance Coming Soon

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.

The Dipsea Blog

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