40+ Dark Romance Novels & Books｜Love Stories to Read Online

Many argue that dark romance offers a more realistic portrayal of love compared to traditional romances. It acknowledges that love can be messy, painful, and at times destructive - but also incredibly passionate and intense. By exploring the darker shades of love through flawed characters in complicated situations, these stories allow readers to delve into their deepest desires without judgment.

Dark romance is a genre that pushes boundaries and explores the complexities of love in all its forms. From forbidden desires to dangerous liaisons and unconventional relationships, these books will take you on an intense emotional rollercoaster that will leave you wanting more. So if you're ready to venture into the darker side of romance, check out our list of recommended dark romance novels and discover your next obsession.

Top 40 Dark Romance Novels List

1. Captive in the Dark by C.J. Roberts

Captive in the Dark by C.J. Roberts (2011) is a dark romance novel focusing on Caleb's quest for revenge. He kidnaps Olivia to train her as a pleasure slave, leading to a complex dynamic of fear and desire between them. This intense story captivates with its dark themes and complex characters, leaving readers eager for more.

2. The Sweetest Oblivion by Danielle Lori

Danielle Lori's The Sweetest Oblivion (2018) is a dark mafia romance novel that follows Elena, an innocent mafia princess, and Nicolas, her sister's fierce fiancé. Despite their initial hostility, Nicolas is captivated by Elena's innocence, and she is drawn to his ruthless nature. Their forbidden attraction leads to a passionate affair, blurring the lines between loyalty and desire.

3. Cruel King by Rina Kent

Cruel King by Rina Kent (2019) is a dark romance with an extensive trigger warning list that follows Astrid who is drawn to Levi, the seemingly charming football captain of Royal Elite School. Their forbidden relationship exposes family tensions and power dynamics. With Levi's control tightening, Astrid must navigate a dangerous path, unsure if she's heading toward freedom or deeper entrapment.

4. Haunting Adeline by H.D. Carlton

H.D. Carlton's Haunting Adeline (2021) is a captivating dark fantasy romance set in a mysterious English countryside manor. Adeline, the new heiress, uncovers family secrets and a supernatural connection, leading to forbidden love and perilous discoveries. Carlton weaves suspense and mystique, offering a tale of love, betrayal, and self-discovery against a haunting backdrop.

5. Corrupt by Penelope Douglas

Corrupt by Penelope Douglas (2015) is a spicy dark romance novel following Erika "Rika" Fane, who seeks a fresh start in college, only to encounter her ex's older brother, Michael Crist, a professional basketball player. Michael seeks vengeance for Rika's past actions, leading to a tumultuous and intense journey of love and moral questioning.

6. Untouchable by Sam Mariano

Untouchable by Sam Mariano (2018) is a dark possessive romance novel following Zoey Ellis, who becomes a pariah after reporting a football player for sexual assault. Seeking revenge, the player enlists star quarterback Carter Mahoney, who begins tormenting Zoey. Carter's attention becomes a nightmare as Zoey realizes he is a predator playing dark games with her.

7. Bully by Penelope Douglas

Bully by Penelope Douglas (2013) is a dark bully romance novel that follows Tate and Jared, former childhood friends whose relationship takes a dark turn in high school. Jared, with the help of his friend Madoc, bullies Tate relentlessly, causing her to spend a year abroad. Now back, Tate is determined to stand up to Jared and reclaim her life.

8. Den of Vipers by K.A. Knight

Den of Vipers by K.A. Knight (2020) is a dark reverse harem romance featuring Roxanne, a feisty dive bar owner. Kidnapped by the four mobsters known as Vipers, she learns her father sold her to settle his debts. As Roxanne navigates her captivity, she discovers complex emotions that challenge her perceptions, leading to a compelling story of love and betrayal.

9. You by Caroline Kepnes

You by Caroline Kepnes (2014) is a dark, obsessive romance novel centered around Joe Goldberg, who becomes infatuated with Guinevere Beck after she visits the bookstore where he works. Using her social media, Joe orchestrates a series of events to manipulate Beck into a relationship, going as far as murder to remove obstacles in their path.

10. The King's Men by Nora Sakavic

Nora Sakavic's The King's Men (2014) is a gay dark romance and the third book in the "All for the Game" series. Neil Josten, facing imminent danger, forms a close bond with the Foxes, especially Andrew. As Neil fights to keep his promises, he must confront his inner demons, which could be his only chance at survival.

11. Boys of Brayshaw High by Meagan Brandy

Boys of Brayshaw High by Meagan Brandy (2019) is a dark bully romance where Raven, a strong and confident girl from a troubled background, is placed in a group home in Brayshaw. At Brayshaw High, she meets the school's dominant trio: Maddoc, Royce, and Captain. Initially unwelcoming, the boys are surprised by Raven's resilience and loyalty, leading to a shift in their dynamic.

12. Raw by Belle Aurora

Raw by Belle Aurora (2014) is a dark stalker romance focusing on Alexia "Lexi" Ballentine, who finds herself inexplicably attracted to her mysterious stalker, Twitch. As their relationship unfolds, Lexi grapples with her feelings for Twitch, leading to a provocative and intense exploration of desire and danger.

13. Tears of Tess by Pepper Winters

Pepper Winters's Tears of Tess (2013) is a dark, abusive romance following Tess Snow, whose life is shattered during a romantic trip with her boyfriend, Brax. Kidnapped and sold into a world of darkness, Tess transforms from a terrified girl to a fierce fighter. Brax races against time to find her, but Tess's new reality may change her forever.

14.Tormentor Mine by Anna Zaires

Tormentor Mine by Anna Zaires (2017) is a dark romance featuring a cruel hero that revolves around Dr. Sara Cobakis, who is held captive by ex-Russian agent Peter Sokolov. Peter believes Sara's husband, George, is responsible for the deaths of his wife and son. Despite Sara's protests, Peter becomes obsessed with her, leading to a dangerous and twisted relationship.

15. Stepbrother Dearest by Penelope Ward

Penelope Ward's Stepbrother Dearest, published in 2014, is a dark taboo romance depicting the intense love story between Greta and her stepbrother, Erik. Initially estranged, they eventually develop deep feelings for each other. However, Erik suddenly leaves, only to return seven years later due to a family tragedy, forcing them to confront their changed lives and unresolved feelings.

16. Birthday Girl by Penelope Douglas

Birthday Girl by Penelope Douglas, first published in 2018, is an age gap dark romance where Jordan moves in with her boyfriend and his father, Pike. Despite Pike's kindness and protection, they develop a forbidden attraction. Pike grapples with his feelings, knowing their relationship is taboo as he's her boyfriend's father.

17. Black Sunshine by Karina Halle

Black Sunshine by Karina Halle (2021) is a dark vampire romance set in contemporary San Francisco. Lenore Warwick, a college student, is kidnapped by a brooding vampire named Absolon "Solon" Stavig a week before her 21st birthday. As Lenore discovers her own vampiric nature, she becomes entangled in a dangerous and seductive world of sex, love, secrets, and revenge.

18. Truly by Carmel Rhodes

Truly by Carmel Rhodes (2020) is a dark bwwm romance following Truly, whose summer after senior year takes an unexpected turn when she meets Noah Tedesco, a wealthy jock with a complicated family history. Despite their differences, Noah is drawn to Truly, changing both their lives forever.

19. The Easy Score by Mariah Sinclair

Mariah Sinclair's The Easy Score (2017) is a free dark romance following Jax, a rebellious man who craves adventure and danger. When a supposedly easy job turns complicated with the arrival of witness Reilly, Jax takes her prisoner. As Reilly devises a plan to seduce Jax and escape, their attraction grows, leading to a dangerous game of deception and desire.

20. It Ain't Me, Babe by Tillie Cole

It Ain't Me, Babe by Tillie Cole (2014) is a dark MC romance, the first in the Hades Hangmen series. River "Styx" Nash, set to lead the Hades Hangmen, encounters Salome, a young woman from his past. Their reunion stirs up memories and challenges as Salome seeks refuge with the club, leading to a complex and dangerous relationship.

21.Sea of Ruin by Pam Godwin

Pam Godwin's Sea of Ruin (2020) is a dark historical romance following Bennett Sharp, a female buccaneer wanted for piracy. She is hunted by Priest Farrell, a degenerate with terrifying possessiveness. Captured by pirate hunter Lord Ashley Cutler, Bennett must escape both Ashley's prison and Priest's deceit, leading to a complex web of desire and deception.

22. Sweet Temptation by Cora Reilly

Sweet Temptation by Cora Reilly (2020) is an arranged marriage dark romance following Cassio, a mobster and a widower, who needs a new wife. He marries Giulia, a young woman chosen by the others, but their relationship is strained by their age difference and Cassio's traditional views. Despite their challenges, Giulia fights for the family, challenging Cassio's expectations.

23. Dark Fae by Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti

In Dark Fae by Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti (2019), Elise, a vampire, poses as her brother at Aurora Academy to investigate his murder. Her main suspects, two irresistibly attractive leaders of rival gangs, complicate her mission as she starts to develop unexpected connections with them in this exciting dark fae romance story.

24. Feral Sins by Suzanne Wright

Feral Sins by Suzanne Wright (2012) is a dark werewolf romance centering on Taryn Warner, a female wolf shifter, and Trey Coleman, an Alpha with a dangerous reputation. Despite initial resistance, Taryn is drawn to Trey's demeanor and agrees to a fake mating alliance to benefit their packs. However, their growing attraction threatens to derail their plans.

25. The Ritual by Shantel Tessier

The Ritual by Shantel Tessier (2021) delves into the dark contemporary romance between Ryat, determined to become a Lord at any cost, and Blakely, whose life is disrupted when she crosses paths with him. Ryat sees Blakely as his possession, to control and destroy as he pleases, while Blakely finds herself trapped in his power, unable to escape his grasp.

26. Gothikana by RuNyx

Gothikana by RuNyx (2021) is a dark academia romance where Corvina Clemm, an outcast reeling from her mother's death, finds solace at the mysterious University of Verenmore. There, she encounters Vad Deverell, a secretive professor. Despite their wariness, they are drawn together by a chilling century-old mystery, leading to a deep and unexpected love.

27. Hooked by Emily McIntire

Hooked by Emily McIntire (2021) offers a fresh twist on Peter Pan's villain, Hook, in a dark smut romance. James seeks revenge on his enemy, Peter Michaels, by seducing his daughter, Wendy. However, as their affair deepens, James begins to see Wendy as more than a pawn, leading to a complex and addictive relationship.

28. God of Fury by Rina Kent

In God of Fury, a dark mm romance by Rina Kent (2023), Brandon struggles with his past and self-image, feeling overshadowed by his family. When he attracts the attention of mafia prince Nikolai, their contrasting personalities spark an unexpected attraction. Nikolai, typically in control, is drawn to Brandon's innocence, leading to a dark and volatile relationship.

29. There Are No Saints by Sophie Lark

There Are No Saints, a dark love novel by Sophie Lark (2021), follows Cole Blackwell, a successful sculptor with a hidden dark side, who becomes obsessed with Mara Eldritch, a struggling artist. Despite recognizing Cole's dangerous nature, Mara is drawn to him as he helps her discover her talent. Their relationship becomes a dangerous game of control and desire.

30. Twisted Love by Ana Huang

Twisted Love by Ana Huang (2021), a BookTok dark romance sensation, follows Alex Volkov, a man driven by tragedy and vengeance, who finds himself unexpectedly drawn to Ava Chen, his best friend's sister. Ava, a free spirit with a troubled past, sees beyond Alex's icy facade. Their forbidden love uncovers dangerous secrets that threaten to unravel their lives.

31. Debt by Nina G. Jones

The dark romance novel Debt by Nina G. Jones (2014) tells the story of Mia, a successful and hardworking woman, who is intrigued by a friend's description of a unique service: hiring a man to "attack" you in your own home. Despite her reservations, Mia decides to try it out and is unexpectedly swept away by the experience, finding it incredibly erotic.

32. The Villain by L.J. Shen

The Villain (2020), a dark billionaire romance by L.J. Shen, follows Cillian, known as "Kill," a ruthless billionaire businessman with a tarnished reputation. To improve his image, he agrees to a fake marriage with Persy, a kind kindergarten teacher burdened by her husband's debts. Their arrangement, born out of necessity, soon leads to unexpected feelings and complications.

33.Born Sinner by S.L. Jennings

In Born Sinner, a dark paranormal romance by S.L. Jennings (2016), Eden, a solitary soul with mysterious and perilous powers, crosses paths with L, a determined fighter on a mission to eradicate evil. Despite their differences and the dangers of their attraction, they find themselves drawn to each other, sparking a dangerous connection.

34. Does It Hurt? by H.D. Carlton

Does It Hurt? by H.D. Carlton is a standalone dark romance novel that follows Sawyer Bennett, a woman on the run from her dark past, resorting to stealing identities to stay hidden. In Australia, she meets Enzo Vitale, a marine biologist. Their encounter leads to a steamy affair, but Sawyer's secrets threaten to unravel their relationship.

35. Monster in His Eyes by J.M. Darhower

Monster in His Eyes by J.M. Darhower is a dark twisted romance that tells the story of college student Karissa and mysterious, but suspiciously rich, Ignazio "Naz" Vitale, whose appearance in her life leads to a dangerous attraction. Naz's dark secrets threaten Karissa's safety, creating a tense and twisted romance.

36. Gild by Raven Kennedy

Gild (2020) by Raven Kennedy introduces Auren, a woman cursed by King Midas to be gold-touched. With her entire being transformed into gold, her fate becomes intertwined with the mythic king's. In his retelling of the myth of King Midas in this dark fantasy romance for adults, Kennedy creates a gripping and addictive tale.

37. Twist Me by Anna Zaires

Twist Me by Anna Zaires tells the story of Nora, an 18-year-old kidnapped and taken to an isolated island. The kidnapper is a powerful man whose touch ignites her desires. This dark non con romance delves into the complexities of love and captivity, exploring taboo themes typical of the genre.

38. Born to be Bound By Addison Cain

Born to be Bound (2020) by Addison Cain is a dark omegaverse novel where Claire, a gentle Omega, pleads with the savage conqueror Shepherd to save vulnerable Omega females. Instead, Shepherd takes Claire as his own, ravaging her and her city. This suspenseful and raw story explores themes of possession, dominance, and forced pair-bonding.

39. Running From The Billionaire by Kimi L. Davis

Running From The Billionaire (2020) by Kimi L. Davis is a free dark romance novel that tells the story of Hailey Pritchett, the CEO's secretary, whose company is bought by the ruthless businessman known as the Sniper, Theodore Benson. When Hailey realizes Theodore's dangerous nature, she runs, but Theodore is determined to possess her in every way possible.

40. Sicko by Amo Jones

The MC dark romance Sicko (2020) by Amo Jones follows Jade, adopted into the Kane family and protected by Royce and his friends. When Royce disappears and returns four years later as a motorcycle club VP, their once-close relationship is strained. They both harbor dark secrets, but their deep attraction persists, leading to a collision of their separate worlds.

Top 10 Dark Romance Books Authors

H. D. Carlton

H. D. Carlton is an International and USA Today Bestselling author, known for her morally gray characters and captivating stories like Does It Hurt? and the Cat and Mouse series.

C.J. Roberts

C.J. Roberts is an independent writer known for her dark and erotic stories with taboo twists, including the bestselling Dark Duet series. She served in the U.S. Air Force before becoming a bestselling author.

Rina Kent

Rina Kent is a USA Today and international bestselling author of enemies-to-lovers romance. She's known for her unapologetic anti-heroes and intense stories, with notable works like the Royal Elite series and Legacy of Gods series.

Danielle Lori

Danielle Lori's novels feature morally questionable heroes and intense hate-to-love relationships. She's known for her fantasy and contemporary romances, including the Made series and Alyria series.

Sam Mariano

Sam Mariano writes edgy, twisty romantic reads with complicated characters. She's known for her indie publishing and compelling stories like Untouchable and the Morelli Family series.

Anna Zaires

Anna Zaires is a New York Times bestselling author of sci-fi and dark romance. Her imaginative storytelling and collaboration with her husband, Dima Zales, have produced popular series like Tormentor Mine and Twist Me.

Penelope Douglas

Penelope Douglas is a bestselling author known for her diverse range of romance novels, including the Fall Away series and standalones like Birthday Girl and Punk 57.

Cora Reilly

Cora Reilly writes mafia romance novels featuring dangerously sexy bad boys. She's known for series like the Born in Blood Mafia series and The Camorra Chronicles.

Emily McIntire

Emily McIntire is a bestselling author known for her steamy romances and slow burns. Her stories often feature seriously questionable morals and can be found in multiple languages. Her notable works include the Never After series and the Sugarlake series

Nina G. Jones

Nina G. Jones' novels span erotica, suspense, romance, and taboo subjects, exploring deep psychological motivations. Her bestselling novels include Debt and The Strapped Series.

Hot Discussions of Dark Romance

Q: What does the description "dark romance" mean?

Dark romance is a subgenre of romance literature that delves into taboo, often controversial, and morally complex themes. Unlike traditional romance novels, which focus on idealized love stories with happy endings, dark romance explores the darker aspects of relationships. This can include themes such as obsession, manipulation, power dynamics, and even non-consensual relationships. Dark romance often pushes the boundaries of traditional romance, challenging readers to explore the complexities of human emotions and relationships in a more intense and sometimes unsettling way. The characters in dark romance novels are often flawed, sometimes even morally ambiguous, adding depth and complexity to the narrative. Despite the darker themes, dark romance novels can still offer a sense of catharsis and emotional fulfillment for readers.

Q: What are the darkest "dark romance" books??

Some of the darkest books in the dark romance push the boundaries of the genre with their intense and often disturbing themes. Books like Captive in the Dark by CJ Roberts, Twist Me by Anna Zaires, and Debt Inheritance by Pepper Winters delve into the depths of human depravity and explore taboo subjects such as captivity, coercion, and non-consensual relationships. Several other dark romance books delve into equally intense and unsettling themes. Books like Tears of Tess by Pepper Winters, Comfort Food by Kitty Thomas, and The Dark Duet series by CJ Roberts explore themes of dominance and psychological manipulation in relationships. These books can be challenging to read due to their graphic content and morally complex characters. However, they also offer a compelling exploration of the darker aspects of human nature and relationships, making them a captivating read for fans of the genre.

Q: Is it OK to read dark romance?

The dark romance genre has been a source of controversy since its emergence in the literary world. While some readers are drawn to the intense emotions and raw passion depicted in these novels, others criticize them for glorifying unhealthy and potentially dangerous behaviors. One of the main controversies surrounding dark romance is the portrayal of abusive or toxic relationships as desirable. Many critics argue that these novels romanticize abusive behavior, leading readers to believe that possessiveness, control, and violence are acceptable forms of love. Furthermore, there is also debate about whether or not these books promote problematic gender roles and stereotypes. Some argue that the dominant male lead often seen in dark romance perpetuates the outdated notion that women should be submissive and passive in relationships.

On the other hand, supporters of this genre argue that it provides an escape from societal norms and allows readers to explore their darkest fantasies without judgment. Advocates for dark romance refute these claims by asserting that reading about extreme situations can actually help readers recognize warning signs and differentiate between fantasy and reality. They argue that exploring darker themes through literature can be cathartic for both authors and readers alike. Despite the controversies surrounding this genre, one cannot deny its popularity among certain audiences. While there are valid concerns about how dark romance may influence society's perception of relationships, it ultimately boils down to personal interpretation and responsibility. As readers, we must be mindful of how these books may impact our thoughts and actions. And, as writers, it is crucial to approach the genre with sensitivity and awareness of its potential implications.

Conclusion

Dark romance novels offer a unique and thrilling perspective on love, often exploring the intricacies of human emotion and relationships. In this list of 40 dark romance books to read online, we have covered a diverse range of stories that will captivate and intrigue you with their hauntingly beautiful tales. From twisted fairy tales to forbidden love affairs, these books explore the complexities of love in its darkest form. So go ahead and dive into these twisted love stories, but be warned - once you start reading, it may be hard to put them down.