Dark fantasy weaves together the intricate threads of fantastical elements with the brooding allure of darker themes, and when romance is added to this mix, the result is nothing short of mesmerizing.
For avid readers, this genre presents a captivating realm where love intertwines with magic, monsters, and moments of intense unpredictability. The combination of forbidden romances, supernatural nuances, and deep, shadowy undertones makes these narratives distinct and memorable.
For those familiar with the genre or newcomers looking to explore, this article provides a list of the best dark fantasy romance books. Prepared for a voyage through tales of love set against a backdrop of darkness? Read on.
Best Dark Fantasy Books with Romance
Ali Stuebbe
Blood of Desiderium
In the book "Blood of Desiderium" by Ali Stuebbe, Princess Emma of Deyadrum longs for freedom from the confines of her palace. However, she soon discovers that her world is filled with lies and darkness. As she navigates a betrothal, encounters a mysterious vigilante and a distrustful Dark Prince, and battles a haunting phantom in her dreams, Emma must find a way to save her people and herself. But she also harbors her own secrets and must play a dangerous game. Can she overcome her grief and fears to defeat the darkness that threatens to consume her and her kingdom?
Amelia Hutchins
Flames of Chaos
In "Flames of Chaos" by Amelia Hutchins, Aria and her sisters return to the Human Realm of Haven Falls to search for their missing sister. However, they soon realize that things have changed and nothing is as it seems, especially Knox, the self-centered and attractive man who has declared himself King. Aria discovers that she is more than just a witch and must decide whether to embrace her true nature to save her family. Knox, who has his own hidden agenda, finds himself drawn to Aria despite their enmity. As their fiery relationship intensifies, they must confront their pasts and make difficult choices.
Amelia Hutchins
Fighting Destiny
In "Fighting Destiny" by Amelia Hutchins, the protagonist finds herself caught up in a murder mystery involving fae and witches. Despite her hatred for the fae, she is forced to work for the Prince of the Dark Fae, a stunning yet controlling being who captivates her against her will. As she delves deeper into the dangerous world of the fae, she realizes that nothing is as it seems, including herself.
Carissa Broadbent
The Serpent and the Wings of Night
"The Serpent and the Wings of Night" by Carissa Broadbent is a thrilling tale of survival and forbidden love. Oraya, the adopted human daughter of a vampire king, must navigate a treacherous tournament in order to prove herself and escape a world that wants to destroy her. In order to succeed, she forms an unlikely alliance with Raihn, a dangerous rival who both captivates and terrifies her. As war looms and their attraction grows, Oraya must decide if love is worth the ultimate sacrifice in a kingdom where love can be the deadliest weapon of all.
Caroline Peckham, Susanne Valenti
The Awakening
"The Awakening" by Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti is an exciting and fast-paced book about a young girl who discovers she is a Fae and the heir to a throne she knows nothing about. In order to claim her birthright, she must prove that she is the most powerful supernatural being in the kingdom. However, she soon realizes that every Fae in the kingdom wants her throne. The school she is sent to is dangerous and wild, with vampires, werewolves, and sirens causing chaos. She must navigate through classes and learn astrology to defeat her classmates. Her biggest challenge comes in the form of a drool-worthy dragon shifter who wants her throne. Survival becomes her main goal, but fate may have other plans for her.
Cassie Alexander
Bend Her
"Bend Her" by Cassie Alexander is a captivating dark fantasy romance novel that tells the story of Rhaim the All-Beast and Lisane, the sheltered Princess of Tears. Rhaim, a cruel beast mage, is bound to protect Lisane at all costs, even though she is the one destined to bring about his demise. Lisane, who has been kidnapped and finds herself tied up in the dark, must rely on Rhaim to teach her magic so she can gain her freedom. As their fates intertwine, they must navigate their complicated relationship and the dangers that lie ahead.
Elizabeth Helen
Bonded by Thorns
In "Bonded by Thorns" by Elizabeth Helen, a bookworm finds herself in an enchanted world of fae, magic, and danger. When her father gets imprisoned in this realm, she is determined to save him, even if it means trading her own freedom. However, she ends up being imprisoned by four attractive fae princes who transform into beasts at night. In order to win her freedom, she strikes a deal with them - they must find their mates to break the curse. As she helps them, she starts to develop feelings for each prince, but one of them is determined to keep her trapped forever. Alongside her own freedom, she must also break the curse to prevent the evil Prince of Thorns from stealing all the magic in the Enchanted Vale.
H.D. Carlton
Haunting Adeline
"Haunting Adeline" by H.D. Carlton is a captivating book about a manipulative individual who has the power to control people's emotions. However, there is one person who seems immune to their influence, and the protagonist finds themselves unable to look away. As their obsession grows, they become determined to make this person theirs, no matter the cost.
Harley Laroux
Her Soul to Take
"Her Soul to Take" by Harley Laroux is a thrilling book about a magician named Leon who is known for his deadly skills. However, when he is tasked with taking the life of a certain individual, he finds himself unable to do so. Now, the cult that once controlled him is after this person, and Leon is determined to protect his new "toy" from them. On the other hand, Rae, a believer in the supernatural, finds herself caught up in a dangerous situation. As monsters roam the woods and an ancient evil begins to awaken, Rae realizes that her only chance of survival lies with a demon who is relentlessly pursuing her. This demon not only desires her body but also her soul. With trust in short supply and darkness closing in, Rae must navigate this treacherous world to stay alive.
Harper L. Woods, Adelaide Forrest
The Coven
"The Coven" by Harper L. Woods is a thrilling book about Adelaide Forrest, who is raised to protect her brother from the same fate that befell her father's sister. She is sent to Crystal Hollow and Hollow's Grove University, where she can practice her magic without judgment. However, she faces animosity from the Headmaster, Alaric Grayson Thorne. Secrets threaten to divide the school, and the Coven will open its doors to thirteen promising students who may change the world, if they can survive the ghosts of Hollow's Grove's victims.
Holly Black
The Cruel Prince
"The Cruel Prince" by Holly Black is a captivating fantasy novel about a young girl named Jude who, after her parents are murdered, is taken to live in the treacherous High Court of Faerie with her sisters. Despite being despised by many of the fey, Jude is determined to belong there. However, her path is hindered by Prince Cardan, the wickedest son of the High King, whom she hates intensely. In order to secure her place at the Court, Jude must defy him and face the consequences. As she becomes entangled in palace intrigues and discovers her own capacity for violence, Jude finds herself caught in the midst of a civil war that threatens the entire realm of Faerie. To save her sisters and Faerie itself, Jude must risk her life in a dangerous alliance.
J. Bree
Broken Bonds
In "Broken Bonds" by J. Bree, the protagonist experiences the loss of her mother and her Bonded. Seeking solace, she finds her own Bonds, hoping they will bring her happiness. However, things don't go as planned, and she realizes that the fate of her people rests on her shoulders. After five years of running, she is captured and forced to confront the men she had escaped from. Doubt begins to creep in as she questions whether her actions were truly right. Despite the potential for forgiveness from her companions - North, Nox, Gryphon, Atlas, and Gabe - she struggles to forgive herself.
J.L. Vampa
Autumn of the Grimoire
In "Autumn of the Grimoire" by J.L. Vampa, witches have different roles. Some use magic, while others are skilled at eliminating kings. The story revolves around a mysterious Grimoire and a marriage filled with hidden secrets. Four ancient Sister witches have shaped history, with Sister Autumn causing chaos and destruction, while Sisters Winter, Spring, and Summer have brought peace. Agatha, who is sent to the Kingdom of Merveille by the Grimoire, expects the worst. To avoid the wrath of the Goddess, she must obey the Grimoire's orders. However, when she is commanded to marry a conceited prince and pretend to be a peasant accepted by cruel aristocrats, she becomes entangled in a class war and an ancient prophecy. Within the royal court, many individuals hold dark secrets, including her new husband. With her newfound influence, Agatha teams up with the city's Blacklisted to blur the lines between the common people and the elite, uncover the mysteries in her marriage, and decide whether to defy the Grimoire and face the harsh consequences. As secrets are revealed, Agatha must choose whether to continue serving the Grimoire or forge a new path with her unexpected allies.
Jack Whitney
Ballad of Nightmares
In "Ballad of Nightmares" by Jack Whitney, a mysterious and powerful woman enters Samarius Cain's kingdom, causing the ravens and crows to act strangely. Samarius, also known as Death, realizes that this woman, Deianira Bronfell, is a threat to his kingdom. Deianira is determined to conquer Shadowmyer, the last domain on her list, and she plans to seduce and kill anyone who stands in her way. However, she finds herself unexpectedly falling for Samarius, making her final conquest more complicated than she anticipated.
Jennifer L. Armentrout
From Blood and Ash
"From Blood and Ash" by Jennifer L. Armentrout is a captivating book about a young woman named Poppy who is chosen from birth to bring about a new era. However, her life as a Maiden is filled with solitude and strict rules. She is forbidden from being touched, looked at, or spoken to, and is not allowed to experience pleasure. While she would rather fight alongside the guards against the evil that took her family, she has no choice but to prepare for her Ascension. The fate of the entire kingdom rests on Poppy's shoulders, but she is unsure if she wants this responsibility for herself. When she meets Hawke, a guard who is bound to ensure her Ascension, her destiny becomes entangled with desire and longing. As a fallen kingdom rises again, seeking vengeance and power, Poppy finds herself torn between her duty and her forbidden desires. With danger closing in, Poppy's world begins to unravel, putting her heart, her worthiness, and even her life at risk.
K.L. Steele
Locked
Locked by K.L. Steele is a thrilling and intense paranormal romance novel set in Blackstone Academy. The protagonist finds herself constantly pursued and in danger from both human monsters and supernatural demons. Despite the threats, she is drawn to the darkness and excitement they bring. However, it's not just the boys of Blackstone who are after her, but other sinister beings with deadly intentions.
Karina Halle
Blood Orange
Blood Orange by Karina Halle is a thrilling paranormal romance novel. Dahlia Abernathy, who has dedicated her life to seeking revenge against vampires, is sent on a mission to kill her teacher, Professor Valtu Aminoff. However, as she gets closer to him, she finds herself falling in love with him. Unbeknownst to both of them, they are actually soulmates who have been reincarnated multiple times. Will their love conquer all, or will they be doomed to repeat their tragic history?
Karina Halle
A Ship of Bones & Teeth
"A Ship of Bones & Teeth" by Karina Halle is a captivating tale about Princess Maren, who has a hidden secret. After selling her soul to the sea witch Edonia, she gave up her life underwater to be with Prince Aerik on land. However, after enduring years of abuse from the prince, Maren is desperate to escape and find Edonia to reverse the spell. Her chance comes when she and the prince are taken hostage by a notorious pirate crew led by Captain Ramsay "Bones" Battista. Maren discovers that the captain also has a score to settle with the sea witch, giving her hope of reclaiming her old life. As Maren and Ramsay's paths intertwine, they both realize that they have secrets that could change everything.
Kathryn Ann Kingsley
The Contortionist
"The Contortionist" by Kathryn Ann Kingsley is a thrilling tale that takes place at Harrow Faire, a mysterious circus that suddenly comes back to life. Cora Glass, a bank teller, finds herself drawn into this world when she enters the circus. However, she soon realizes that there is more to this circus than meets the eye. Cora becomes entangled in a dangerous game between the enigmatic Puppeteer and the reclusive Mr. Harrow, both of whom will go to extreme lengths, including murder, to possess her.
Kathryn Ann Kingsley
Heart of Dracula
In "Heart of Dracula" by Kathryn Ann Kingsley, Maxine Parker is faced with a difficult decision. Set in Boston in 1897, the city is caught in a war between the living and the dead. The Vampire King is determined to claim what he wants, unless someone is brave enough to stop him. Maxine, who has the ability to kill with a touch, finds herself in the middle of this war. She is drawn to Dracula's seduction, but giving in to her attraction would mean the end of her life. Will she have to sacrifice herself to save the people of Boston from the impending death? Or is there another way to find a solution?
Melissa K. Roehrich
Lady of Darkness
Lady of Darkness by Melissa K. Roehrich is a thrilling fantasy novel about Scarlett Monrhoe and her two sisters, who have been trained to be ruthless assassins since childhood. Locked away in a noble's household, Scarlett is given a chance for revenge against the Fae Fire Prince who killed her mother. However, when children start disappearing, Scarlett must put her plans on hold to save the innocent. With the help of old friends and a mysterious newcomer, Scarlett uncovers forgotten secrets and realizes that darkness lurks beyond her own kingdom.
Opal Reyne
A Soul to Keep
"A Soul to Keep" by Opal Reyne is a captivating tale about Reia, a young woman who longs for freedom. Reia is ostracized by her village due to superstitions and blamed for the tragedies that have befallen her family. When faced with the choice of imprisonment or sacrificing herself to a mysterious monster, Reia discovers that the monster, Orpheus, is not what he appears to be. Despite his eerie appearance, Reia finds herself drawn to him. Orpheus, who has spent centuries seeking companionship, is enchanted by Reia's fearlessness. As their connection deepens, Orpheus must convince Reia to stay with him before they are separated forever.
Penelope Barsetti
The Forsaken King
"The Forsaken King" by Penelope Barsetti is a thrilling story about revenge and survival. Ivory, a young woman, is constantly being watched by Mastodon, one of her father's guards. Despite her warnings, no one takes her concerns seriously. When she leaves for the Capital, Mastodon escorts her, but things take a dark turn when he kills her guards and captures her. As they descend into the Bottom of the Cliffs, Mastodon reveals his motive for his actions - her family took everything from him, and now he plans to do the same. However, Ivory is determined to fight back, even landing an arrow in Mastodon's neck to no avail. Meanwhile, Mastodon shares his own tragic past and his thirst for revenge against Ivory's family. As their paths intertwine, both Ivory and Mastodon must confront their darkest desires and make choices that will determine their fates.
Raven Kennedy
Gild
In the book "Gild" by Raven Kennedy, the fae have left this world and those with power now rule. The story follows a woman who is rescued by King Midas and elevated to a position of importance. However, when war comes to the kingdom and a deal is made, her trust is shattered and she begins to question everything she knows about Midas. Despite living in a luxurious palace, she realizes that she is still trapped. The monsters on the other side of her confinement may make her regret ever leaving her previous life.
S.G. Prince
To Poison a King
"To Poison a King" by S.G. Prince tells the story of Selene, a young healer who is forced by her mother to poison the king. However, the poison fails and instead leaves the king paralyzed. As chaos ensues in the palace and everyone searches for the poisoner, Selene is left to rehabilitate the king while hiding her true intentions. Over the course of their journey, the king and Selene form an unlikely friendship, but Selene's guilt and fear of her mother's return haunt her.
Santana Knox
Heartless Heathens
"Heartless Heathens" by Santana Knox is a captivating Gothic romance novel. Set in the bell tower of Notredame Parochial College, the story follows a mysterious girl who is considered an urban legend among the students. When a group of outcasts, known as the heathens, arrive at the school, they disrupt the rules and secrets of the institution. As they discover the girl's existence, they become entangled in her world.
Sarah A. Parker
To Bleed a Crystal Bloom
"To Bleed a Crystal Bloom" by Sarah A. Parker is a captivating book about a young woman who was saved from a brutal massacre and now lives a sheltered life as the ward of a powerful High Master. She is trapped within the castle grounds, fearing the monsters that lurk outside. Despite her safe existence, she is consumed by an unrequited love for her enigmatic protector. When dangerous creatures threaten her world, she will uncover a shocking truth hidden within the castle's secrets.
Sav R. Miller
Promises and Pomegranates
Promises and Pomegranates by Sav R. Miller is a captivating book about the complicated relationship between Kal Anderson and Elena Ricci. Kal is often seen as a villain, associated with death and nightmares. He is accused of stealing Elena from her fiancé and making empty promises. However, it becomes clear that Elena made the choice to stay with Kal. On the other hand, Elena is seen as innocent and pure, but Kal believes she ruined him.
Scarlett St. Clair
King of Battle and Blood
In "King of Battle and Blood" by Scarlett St. Clair, Isolde de Lara finds herself forced into a marriage with vampire king Adrian Aleksandr Vasiliev. Her mission is to kill him and end a long-standing war. However, her attempt fails and Adrian warns her that any future assassination attempts will result in her becoming a vampire. Determined to survive, Isolde searches for alternative ways to defy him and navigate the dangerous vampire court. But her biggest fear is not the court itself, but rather Adrian. Despite their undeniable attraction, Isolde questions why the fierce and merciless king chose her as his consort. The shocking answer will completely change her world.
Stacey Marie Brown
Savage Lands
"""Savage Lands"" by Stacey Marie Brown is a gripping tale set in Budapest, almost twenty years after the barrier between Earth and the Otherworld was broken during the Fae Wars. In this story, the city is on the brink of a power struggle between the elite fae and the privileged humans in Eastern Europe. The tension and animosity between the two groups are escalating, leading to hate and violence.The protagonist, nineteen-year-old Brexley, has lived a life of privilege but has also experienced heartbreak. After being orphaned, she finds herself under the care of General Markos, residing in a walled city filled with power-hungry individuals and ruthless political games. However, her life takes a drastic turn when she is thrown into Halalhaz, the feared House of Death, a prison from which no one ever escapes.In this prison, Brexley must navigate the treacherous world of fae and human criminals. Humans are at the bottom of the hierarchy, and survival depends on forming alliances with the fae. It is here that she encounters Warwick Farkas, a legendary figure known for his brutality, cruelty, and arrogance. He rules the prison with unquestioned authority, and despite the danger, Brexley feels an intense attraction towards him.As the story unfolds, Brexley must not only contend with the threat of the Games, a fight to the death where only one person survives, but also navigate her complicated feelings for Warwick. Will she be able to survive in this dangerous world, or will her connection to Warwick cost her everything, including her life?"