Fantasy Romance
Magic, dragons, brooding heroes, and epic adventure. Romantasy we mere mortals couldn’t begin to dream up.
Want to see only Shifter Romance? THEY’RE HERE.
Looking for Omegaverse? IT’S RIGHT HERE.
Searching for a title that’s not listed? Check our lower-rated reads page for books we don’t recommend and why.
Fantasy Romance
🔥 🔥
Read-&-Rated Favorites (⭐ 3.5+)
-

A Dowry of Blood by S.T. Gibson
⭐ 4.75
MEDIUM, HEA
“WOW. This read is <300 pages and you'll be riveted for each one. Not graphic, but implied. The writing is so descriptive and touching, you feel everything Constanta feels.” - Cardigan B
Vampire, Age Gap Romance, Regency/Georgian/Victorian Period, Story Told in Past and Present, Revenge
-

The Alpha of Bleake Isle by Kathryn Moon
⭐ 4.5
HOT, HEA
“She’s the awkward, unlikely choice to rule the isle with the only dragon alpha around. He’s not excited for a wife, but he wants someone with a sturdy constitution.” - Cardigan B
Commoner/Aristocrat, Dragons, Virgin FMC, Age Gap, Praise Kink, Creative Anatomy, Class Differences, Breeding Kink, Magic, Fated Mates, Marriage of Convenience, Forced Proximity
-

The Awakening by Nora Roberts
⭐ 4.5
MEDIUM, HEA
“The blog was the least believable part of this story.” - Cardigan B
Portal to Another World, Chosen One, Power Struggle, Hidden Royalty, Slow Burn, Found Family, Family Rivalry, Personal Growth Journey
-

Bride by Ali Hazelwood
⭐ 4.5
MEDIUM, HEA
“Loved this book! So much discovery before the two main characters got together.” - Penelope Black
Arranged Marriage, Blood Play, Cute Cat(s), Fated Mates, Enemies to Lovers, Knotting, Touch her and die, Vampire-Werewolf Triangle, Forced Proximity, Slow Burn, Different Worlds, Werewolf Mate, Interracial Overcoming Past Trauma, Opposites Attract, Dirty Talker
-

Bride of Brutal Hearts by Kate Stevens
⭐ 4.5
HOT, TO BE CONTINUED
“Holy shit. Two morally black MMCs. One enslaved mate to be their magic conduit. Things get weird FAST. You can feel the turmoil and indecision within Nessa. Creative, imaginative, DARK.” - Cardigan B
Fae/Fairies, Slavery, Fated Mates, "Male, Male Female Relationship (MMF)", Revenge, Morally Grey MMC, Enemies to Lovers, Forbidden Love Interest, What the hell did I just read and why can't I stop, Captive Falls for Captor (Not Stockholm Syndrome)
-

Draco Malfoy and the Mortifying Ordeal of Being in Love by ISTHISSELFCARE
⭐ 4.5
MEDIUM, HEA
“This is the feel-good fanfic for Dramonione. A wonderful take on Hermione and Draco in the professional world, post-Hogwarts. This is pure sunshine.” - Cardigan B
Dramione Fanfic, Playboy/Rake, Possessive MMC, Witty Banter, Slow Burn, Opposites Attract, Redemption, Dirty Talker, Magic, Class Differences, Social Class Divide, Flashbacks
-

Fourth Wing (Book 1) by Rebecca Yarros
⭐ 4.5
MEDIUM, HEA
“I couldn't put this down - such a great world, unexpected likeability of all the characters, and spiiiicy chemistry.. I had to look up fan art for her hair. Odd descriptions.” - Cardigan B
Academic Setting, Love Triangle, Overcoming Past Trauma, Enemies to Lovers, Dragons, Magic, Hidden Powers, Politics, Family Rivalry
-

Iron Flame (Book 2) by Rebecca Yarros
⭐ 3.5
MILD, TO BE CONTINUED
“Boring for about 85% of the book. And Violet was so indecisive. She undid all the character work laid in Fourth Wing. I loved the plot around the fliers and forces combining. Violet's torture and losing Liam were physically heartbreaking.” - Cardigan B
Dragons, Academic Setting, Enemies to Lovers, Found Family, Betrayal & Secrets, Shadow Daddy, Independent FMC, Silver Hair (FMC), Resistance
-

Onyx Storm (Book 3) by Rebecca Yarros
⭐ 3.75
HOT, TO BE CONTINUED
“WAY better than book 2, but really? Ending a book with THAT cliffhanger is horseshit. I'm pissed.” - Cardigan B
Dragons, Academic Setting, Age Gap, Cliffhanger
-

Hollow by Caroline Peckham & Susanne Valenti
☆ 4.5
MILD, TO BE CONTINUED
“So. F*ing. Good. The Twisted Sisters’ best book. A cursed forest that's engulfing fae and human lands, waiting to be soothed by a curse breaker. Secrets between the MCs get darker with each reveal. Electrifying chemistry.” - Cardigan B
Hidden Identity, Fae/Fairies, Immortal/Mortal, Slow Burn, Survival, Enemies to Lovers, Possessive MMC, Touch Her and Die Vibes, Secrets, Captive Falls for Captor (Not Stockholm Syndrome)
-

Key of Light (Book 1) by Nora Roberts
⭐ 4.5
MEDIUM, HEA
“I love this series - read it 6 times at least. Nora Roberts is at her best. The first book is world building, but it sets up the relationships of 6 interconnected, likable people and the fate that brought them together. It's magical without being over-the-top.” - Cardigan B
Magic, Time Travel, Opposites Attract, Mythological Beings, Personal Growth Journey, Found Family, Female Friendship Group
-

Key of Knowledge (Book 2) by Nora Roberts
⭐ 4.0
MEDIUM, HEA
“Still a great read but I didn't connect with Dana and Jordan the way I did with the others. But they did have the most volatile and tangible passion. She holds a grudge—that part is fun to watch.” - Cardigan B
Enemies to Lovers, Second Chance, Small Town, Best Friend's Ex, Friendship Group, Female Friendship Group, Forced Proximity, Magic, Involved in a Rebellion/Resistance, Survival, Down on Her Luck FMC
-

Key of Valor (Book 3) by Nora Roberts
⭐ 4.5
MEDIUM, HEA
“Zoe has so major baggage—she doesn’t do a great job of managing her judgement of Brad, since he’s wealthy and she’s always struggled. But the more she trusts him, the more she sees the goodness. So sweet and a perfect finale. Hearts to Nora.” - Cardigan B
Enemies to Lovers, Small Town, Friendship Group, Female Friendship Group, Forced Proximity, Magic, MMC/FMC Involved in a Rebellion/Resistance, Survival, Class Differences
-

The Knight and the Moth by Rachel Gillig
⭐ 4.5
MILD, TO BE CONTINUED
“The gargoyle steals the show. What a treasure. He’s told to bow to the king…instead he ‘made a crude sound of flatulence and didn’t get up.’” - Cardigan B
Hidden Identity, Royalty, Loss of Faith, MC has a Secret Past, MC is trapped, Loss of Sibling (Death), FMC is blind
-

Quicksilver by Callie Hart
⭐ 4.5
MEDIUM, TO BE CONTINUED
“Oh man, this was GOOD. The plot, the MCs, the side characters, the worlds. Devoured.” - Cardigan B
“Slow to start, but picked up in a good way. FMC isn't pathetic and the MMC is standoffish - I enjoyed their banter and the "enemies to lovers trope".” - Penelope Black
Enemies to Lovers, Shadow Daddy, Forced Proximity, Morally Grey (MMC), Vampire, Fae/Fairies, Dirty Talker, Witty Banter
-

Rose in Chains by Julie Soto
⭐ 4.5
MILD, TO BE CONTINUED
“Dark, mysterious, so heartbreaking I had to look away. I’m not okay.” - Cardigan B
Royalty, Dramione Fanfic, Enemies to Lovers, Hidden Powers, Auction, Human Trafficking, MC is a Bully (at the start), Slow Burn Due to Past Trauma
-

Shield of Sparrows by Devney Perry
⭐ 4.5
MILD, TO BE CONTINUED
“Lots of world-building, but doesn’t get lost in the details. Loaded with a ton of “who done it vibes” and mystery with a romance sub-plot. It was a ride and I’m here for book #2” ~ PB
Arranged Marriage, Mysterious MMC, Curious FMC, Monsters, Grumpy MMC, Royalty, Enemies to Lovers, Slow Burn, Touch Her & Die
-

A Thorn in Every Heart by Kate King
⭐ 4.5
HOT, HEA
“Brilliant and spicy ‘Beauty and the Beast’ retelling, with a twist. Couldn’t put it down.” - Cardigan B
Fairytale Retelling, Fae/Fairies, Royalty, Hidden Powers, Cursed MMC, Soulmates, Separated/Divorcing
-

Apprentice to the Villain (Book 1) by Hannah Nicole Maehrer
⭐ 4.25
MILD, TO BE CONTINUED
“She is rescued from death. He continues to be the Villain doing villain things. They dance around their growing attraction and it's hitting a fever pitch. For all of us.” - Cardigan B
Slow Burn, Workplace, Forced Proximity, Magic, Age Gap Romance, MC has a Missing Parent, MMC/FMC Involved in a Rebellion/Resistance, MMC/FMC is back from the dead, Rescue, Revenge, Kidnapping, MC is Shunned by Family, Dragons, Found Family
-

Assistant to the Villain (Book 2) by Hannah Nicole Maehrer
⭐ 4.25
MILD, TO BE CONTINUED
“She's an employee to the bad man in town. He's the bad man in town. Their hijinx are absurd and adorable. Love is on the table...but no one is taking the first bite.” - Cardigan B
Workplace Romance, Boss/Employee, Loss of Sibling (Death), Grumpy/Sunshine, Magic, Forbidden Love Interest, Secret Identity, Spy
-

Avalon Tower (Book 1) by C.N. Crawford & Alex Rivers
⭐ 4.25
MILD, TO BE CONTINUED
“What a random find that turned out to be gold. Or…Avalon Steel…if you’ve read it. The Prologue actually hurt my interest, but I’m glad I pressed on.”
Hidden Powers, Overcoming Past Trauma, Age 30+ MMC, Slow Burn, Portal to Another World, Fae/Fairies, Second Chance
-

Vale of Dreams (Book 2) by C.N. Crawford & Alex Rivers
⭐ 4.0
MILD, TO BE CONTINUED
“Despite the low spice levels, this story is holding my attention. It's riveting and a real surprise. I didn't expect the sequel to be this interesting.” - Cardigan B
Hidden Powers, Overcoming Past Trauma, Age 30+ MMC, Slow Burn, Portal to Another World, Fae/Fairies, Second Chance, FMC & MMC Enter Into A Contract, Mistaken Identity
-

Lady of the Lake (Book 3) by C.N. Crawford & Alex Rivers
⭐ 3.5
MILD, HEA
“A nice closer in the series. A few unanswered questions, but we got the HEA we needed.” - Cardigan B
Overcoming Past Trauma, Fake Marriage, Marriage of Convenience, Dragons, Loss of Parent (Death), Fae/Fairies, Academic Setting
-

Broken by the Horde King by Zoey Draven
⭐ 4.25
MEDIUM, HEA
“This was my favorite one in the series. They met as children, he broke her heart, she grew up and became a healer, he became a king. They met again as adults, she never forgot him, he finally allowed himself to see her. and begged for a second chance” - Penelope Black
GOT, Second Chance, Redemption, Caretaker/Nursed Back to Health, Breakup Due to Misunderstanding, Alien/Human, Royalty, Creative Anatomy, Pregnancy, MCs were Childhood Friends
-

Charming Your Dad by Sarah Blue
⭐ 4.25
HOT, HEA
“Huh, I didn't mean to enjoy this. Books with "daddy" make me nauseous, but for some reason, this was hilarious. Maybe it was the truth truffles?” - Cardigan B
Age 25+ FMC, Age 40+ MMC, Age Gap Romance, Ex-Boyfriends Father, What the hell did I just read and why can't I stop, Witch/Warlock/Wizard, Angel/Demon, Dom/Sub, Sex Club, Kidnapping, Creative Anatomy
-

Deadwood by Karley Brenna
⭐ 4.25
MILD, TO BE CONTINUED
“Not what I thought I was getting, in a great way. Sheltered woman finds her freedom in a secluded ghost town ruled by criminals and rejects. A little slow to start, but a lot of set up was needed to enjoy the story.” - Cardigan B
Fantasy, Arranged Marriage, Royalty, Bad boy-good girl, Hidden Powers
-

Eternal Reign by Caroline Peckham & Susanne Valenti
⭐ 4.25
MILD, TO BE CONTINUED
“See our FULL REVIEW. What an unexpected delight! Two sisters, two stories, two survivors. One is kidnapped by vampires, the other is pushed on a quest to find their vampire slayer roots.” - Cardigan B
Dystopian, Vampire, Kidnapping, Hidden Identity, Loss of Parent (Death), MC is a Twin, MC has a Missing Parent, MC has a Missing Sibling, MC is trapped, MMC/FMC Involved in a Rebellion/Resistance, MMC/FMC is/are on the Run
-

Radiance by Grace Draven
⭐ 4.25
MILD, HEA
“A marriage of convenience to secure two kingdoms, an interspecies relationship, and two MCs just doing their best.” - Cardigan B
Marriage of Convenience, Slow Burn, Friends to Lovers, Politics, Royalty, Found Family, Forbidden Love Interest
-

Spicy Little Curses by J.T. Geissinger
⭐ 4.25
MEDIUM, HEA
“Creepy, mysterious, and so much chemistry. She's a skeptical reporter looking for a spooky scoop. He's actually cursed. Together they track down the mystical details and save the day.” - Cardigan B
Cursed MMC, Fated Mates, Short/Novella, Seasonal, Forced Proximity, Slow Burn, Hate to Love You, Tattoos, MC has a Tragic Past
-

When Gracie Met the Grump by Mariana Zapata
⭐ 4.25
LOW, HEA
“I really enjoyed this book. First time I have ever read a superhero romance book! The whole virgin thing was a little weird and I was like "yea right", but it is what it is. I had fun with this one” - Penelope Black
Alien/Human, Enemies to Lovers, MMC/FMC is/are on the Run, Superhero, FMC Nurses the MMC Back to Life, Forced Proximity, Virgin MMC, Grumpy/Sunshine, Down on Her Luck FMC, Slow Burn, Fated Mates, Virgin FMC, Found Family, Age Gap Romance
-

Anathema by Keri Lake
⭐ 4.0
MILD, HEA
“Major world building in the first half, action in the second. She’s banished to the magical woods from which no one returns. He’s a cursed assassin in another realm drawn to her by duty and fate.” - Cardigan B
Enemies to Lovers, Portal to Another World, Slow Burn, Forced Proximity, Only One Bed, Touch Her and Die Vibes, Cursed Love, Magical Binding
-

Bound by Iron by Emily Sarratt
⭐ 4.0
MEDIUM, TO BE CONTINUED
“She's a lost, small town girl who is repairing from trauma. He's a world stepper, crossing between human and fae lands just to see her. She lands in Faery and her sad story...gets dark.” - Cardigan B
Fae/Fairies, Portal to Another World, Learning a New World, Slow Burn, MC has Interfering Family, Loss of Parent (Death), Cliffhanger Ending, MMC/FMC have to stop the end of the world
-

Bride of the Shadow King (Book 1) by Sylvia Mercedes
⭐ 4.0
MILD, TO BE CONTINUED
“While this wasn't spicy, it had an actual plot. The FMC did get a little whiny, desperate. As per usual for most romance books, a little communication would have gone a long way.” - Penelope Black
Arranged Marriage, Secret Identity, Enemies to Lovers, Outcast from Society, Shunned FMC, Slow Burn, Magic, Magical Binding, Hidden Identity, Royalty
-

Vow of the Shadow King (Book 2) by Sylvia Mercedes
⭐ 4.0
MILD, TO BE CONTINUED
“Way more action in the second book. I enjoyed it. More romance as well and a little bit of spice” - Penelope Black
Arranged Marriage, Secret Identity, Enemies to Lovers, Outcast from Society, Shunned FMC, Slow Burn, Magic, Magical Binding, Hidden Identity, Royalty
-

A Cage of Crimson (Part 1) by K.F. Breene
⭐ 4.0
HOT, TO BE CONTINUED
“Red Riding Hood retelling where a trapped girl meets her fated mate in the woods, only to find that he’s there to take her and her employer down for drug trafficking. Unique, interesting.” - Cardigan B
Folklore Romance, MC is trapped, Fated Mates, Shifters, Enemies to Lovers
-

Cage of Kingdoms (Part 2) by K.F. Breene
⭐ 4.25
HOT, HEA
“Great story resolution. A finale that left me satisfied. "Dicks with wings" is my new favorite pattern design and "guard my asshole" is my new favorite friend moniker. Aurelia was alone for so long but her pack took care of her from day one. Witty, charming, warm.” - Cardigan B
Folklore Romance, Fated Mates, Enemies to Lovers, Dragons, MC has a Tragic Past, Survival, MC has Interfering Family, Magic, Captive Falls for Captor), Abusive Parent(s), FMC previous abused (not by MMC), Emotional Abuse, Fairytale Retelling
-

Clean Sweep by Ilona Andrews
⭐ 4.0
MILD, HEA
“An inherited intergalactic inn that serves as a stopover on Earth for aliens? Really cool.” - Cardigan B
Magic, Innkeeper/Hotel/Concierge, MC has a Missing Parent, Monster MMC, World Building, Werewolves, Vampire, Mythological Beings, Alien, Different Worlds, Portal to Another World, Hidden Powers, Hidden Identity, Protective MMC, Slow Burn, Texas, Sci-Fi, Witty Banter, Haunted, Isolated, Mysterious Land
-

Compound 26 by Krista Street
⭐ 4.0
MILD, TO BE CONTINUED
“Found this free on Kindle and I should have known I’d love it. It’s Krista Street. She can write the shit out of a series. This is a dystopian mystery, neat concept.” - Cardigan B
Rescue, Dystopian, Loss of Sibling (Death), Mysterious Illness, Hidden Powers, Enemies to Lovers, Slow Burn, Found Family, MMC/FMC has been to Prison, Age 20+ FMC
-

The Consulate by Allison Carr Waechter
⭐ 4.0
MEDIUM, HEA
“She's an immortal abandoned by her coven and her tools. He's the head of a rival paranormal entity. They team up to take down the government, make friends with sea monsters, and find love they never expected.” - Cardigan B
Enemies to Lovers, Paranormal Protection, MC is trapped, MMC/FMC Involved in a Rebellion/Resistance, Rescue, MC has/is Escaped/Escaping a Cult/Sect, MC has a Tragic Past, MC has a Missing Sibling, Kidnapping
-

Court of Winter (Book 1) by Krista Street
⭐ 4.0
MEDIUM, TO BE CONTINUED
“This series packs a punch. Ilara is a nobody with no magic, kidnapped by the Prince whose magic is death. Unique story.” - Cardigan B
Enemies to Lovers, Forced Proximity, Fated Mates, Morally Grey MMC, Royal/Commoner, Fae/Fairies, Only One Bed, MMC Falls First, Hidden Powers, Cliffhanger Ending, Politics
-

Thorns of Frost (Book 2) by Krista Street
⭐ 3.75
HOT, TO BE CONTINUED
“OOOOOO Book 1 set up some great shit for book 2. I liked this one, but it was way more predictable than book 1. The end is a lovely crescendo of Ilara taking her life into her own hands.” - Cardigan B
Enemies to Lovers, Forced Proximity, Fated Mates, Morally Grey MMC, Royal/Commoner, Fae/Fairies, Only One Bed, MMC Falls First, Hidden Powers, Cliffhanger Ending, Politics
-

Wings of Snow (Book 3) by Krista Street
⭐ 4.0
MEDIUM, TO BE CONTINUED
“This series packs a punch. Ilara is a nobody with no magic, kidnapped by the Prince whose magic is LITERAL death. He also killed her family. But things aren’t always what they seem. Really unique story.” - Cardigan B
Enemies to Lovers, Forced Proximity, Fated Mates, Morally Grey MMC, Royal/Commoner, Fae/Fairies, Only One Bed, MMC Falls First, Hidden Powers, Cliffhanger Ending, Politics
-

Crowns of Ice (Book 4) by Krista Street
⭐ 4.0
HOT, HEA
“Oh hell yeah. What I like about this series is that problems keep arising, but they keep getting resolved. This author doesn't make me hate her. That feels nice. Ilara and Norivun get their shit together, take on a warlock, and make friends with Earth.” - Cardigan B
Enemies to Lovers, Forced Proximity, Fated Mates, Morally Grey MMC, Royal/Commoner, Fae/Fairies, Only One Bed, MMC Falls First, Hidden Powers, Cliffhanger Ending, Politics
-

Dark Fae (Book 1) by Caroline Peckham & Susanne Valenti
⭐ 4.0
MEDIUM, TO BE CONTINUED
“Same universe as The Awakening but much less ‘bully romance’ and more about the tribal rivalries, a murder mystery, and a girl who collects boyfriends. Love Leo today, love Leo for all time.” - Cardigan B
College/Uni Students, Magical Binding, Hidden Royalty, Destitute FMC, Fated Mates, Organized Crime, Academic Rivals, Murder Mystery
-

Savage Fae (Book 2) by Caroline Peckham & Susanne Valenti
⭐ 4.0
HOT, TO BE CONTINUED
“Pleasantly surprised by how much I like this one given it's a Reverse Harem. I really love the dynamics between Elise and the Boys.” - Penelope Black
College/Uni Students, Reverse Harem, Why Choose, Magical Binding, Vampire, Dragons, Harpy, Lions, Dark Academia, Shifters, Magic, Fated Mates, Mating/Bonding, To-Be Continued, Gang Wars, Loss of Sibling (Death), Slow Burn, Forbidden Love Interest
-

Vicious Fae (Book 3) by Caroline Peckham & Susanne Valenti
⭐ 4.0
HOT, TO BE CONTINUED
“WHOA. This was the best so far. Too long, but the mystery unfolds at a rapid rate, making the relationships so much stronger and more appealing.” - Cardigan B
College/Uni Students, Reverse Harem, Why Choose, Magical Binding, Vampire, Dragons, Harpy, Lions, Dark Academia, Shifters, Magic, Fated Mates, Mating/Bonding, To-Be Continued, Gang Wars, Loss of Sibling (Death), Slow Burn, Forbidden Love Interest
-

Broken Fae (Book 4) by Caroline Peckham & Susanne Valenti
⭐ 3.5
HOT, TO BE CONTINUED
“This entire book was about how Leo gets the rest of the guys to come back and bang Elise. There wasn't story movement until the last 20% of the book. But that 20% was good!” - Cardigan B
College/Uni Students, Enemies to Lovers, Forced Proximity, Slow Burn, Grumpy/Sunshine, Opposites Attract, Possessive MMC, Tortured MMC, Touch Her and Die Vibes, Betrayal & Secrets, Secret/Elite Society, Soulmate Marks, Hidden Powers, Dragons, Vampire, Werewolves
-

Warrior Fae (Book 5) by Caroline Peckham & Susanne Valenti
⭐ 3.75
HOT, HEA
“Not a bad end, but dear lord Leon carried this story: "I got us each [a crystal] one and two for Elise because without her there is way too much sausage in this sandwich and as much as I would be down for sucking a dick or two in the right circumstances, I just feel like we need to extra protect our only pussy."" - Cardigan B
Academic Setting, Reverse Harem, Fated Mates, "Smart, Strong, Independent FMC", Obsessive MMC, Loss of Sibling, Shifters
-

Desire in His Blood (Book 1) by Zoey Draven
⭐ 4.0
HOT, HEA
“Rather enjoyed this one - unexpected. Enemies to lovers who eventually accepted their mating bond.” - Penelope Black
Arranged Marriage, Monster MMC, Monster/Human Romance, Mating/Bonding, Touch Her and Die Vibes, Vampire, Enemies to Lovers, FMC & MMC Enter Into A Contract, Revenge, Obsessive MMC, Dominant MMC, Alien, Fated Mates
-

Hunger in His Blood (Book 3) by Zoey Draven
☆ 3.5
MEDIUM, HEA
“MMC is an ass at the start without reason. Not much in terms of story arc though. No communication, assuming things without talking, running away and not standing up for yourself.” - Penelope Black
MC is a Runaway, Destitute FMC, Down on Her Luck FMC, Missing Friend, Virgin FMC, Tortured MMC, Second Chance, Redemption, Touch Her and Die Vibes, Knotting, Royal/Commoner, Fated Mates, Social Class Divide, Slow Burn Due to Past Trauma, Scenting, Monster MMC, Groveling
-

Faeling (Book 4) by S.E. Wendel
⭐ 4.0
MEDIUM, HEA
“Book 4 of ‘Halfling’ and so good. She's hiding in plain sight, actively avoiding a prophecy. He's uniting the orc clans under his reign. They're fated mates who take on the greatest enemy of the land.: A near-immortal fae queen who’s over-stayed her welcome.” - Cardigan B
Fae/Fairies, Fated Mates, Orcs, Revenge, Loss of Parent (Death), Prophecy
-

Fairydale by Veronica Lancet
⭐ 4.0
MEDIUM, HEA
“I liked this a stupid amount. It started as one story, morphed into another one, ended with a bang. Hold onto your butt.” - Cardigan B
Varying Timelines, Past Lives, Supernatural Cute Cat(s), Ghost Romance, Hidden Identity, Hidden Past, Infertility, Interfering Family, Secret Identity, Story Told in Past and Present, Unrequited Love, Villain Becomes MMC, True Identity, Touch her and die
-

Frost by C.N. Crawford
⭐ 4.0
MILD, TO BE CONTINUED
“Intriguing. "Sluttish tavern wench" is my new favorite burn. There were so many of those in the book. It was cleverly written and engaging the whole way through.” - Cardigan B
Royal/Commoner, Fae/Fairies, Portal to Another World, Enemies to Lovers, FMC & MMC Enter Into A Contract, Hidden Identity, Hidden Relationship, Competition Romance, Down on Her Luck FMC
-

Her Soul to Take by Harley Laroux
⭐ 4.0
HOT, HEA
“I would have given this more stars, but Rae was an idiot. I was ready to throw her into the mines myself.” - Cardigan B
“Rae was so dumb. I couldn't handle it. She ruined it for me.” - Penelope Black
Ghost Hunter, Monster MMC, Monster/Human Romance, Nerdy FMC, Academic Setting, Cult/Sect, Demons, Human/Demon Relationship, BDSM, MMC/FMC has a Cute Cat, Enemies to Lovers, Magic, Age Gap Romance, Witch/Warlock/Wizard, Touch Her and Die Vibes, Paranormal Protection
-

Love Bites (Book 1) by Lola Glass
⭐ 4.0
HOT, HEA
“SHUT UP THIS WAS SO FUN. I couldn’t stop reading this series. I read it two days. I love the underlying story which is about survival versus really living. It’s less than 300 pages. Try it.” - Cardigan B
Protection, Vampires, Mythological Creatures, Fated Mates, Overcoming Emotional Trauma
-

Love Bites Hard (Book 2) by Lola Glass
⭐ 3.75
HOT, HEA
“Izzy volunteers herself to an arranged marriage to escape the vampire compound - she needs freedom. Porter is a dick for the first half of the book, it's hard to read. He finally pulls his head out of his ass, though.” - Cardigan B
Werewolves, Werewolf Mate, Loss of Parent (Death), Loss of Sibling (Death), Arranged Marriage, Age 20+ MMC, MMC/FMC is/are on the Run
-

Love Bites Harder (Book 3) by Lola Glass
⭐ 3.75
HOT, HEA
“Clem just wants love. She accidentally is portaled to the fae land and has to have a mate to get back. The fae king inadvertently falls for her and mates with her. There are...vines...that have a mind of their own.” - Cardigan B
Fae/Fairies, Marriage of Convenience, MC is trapped, Possessive MMC, Strong Sister Bond, Survival, Rescue, Creative Anatomy, Only One Bed, Forced Proximity, MMC/FMC have to stop the end of the world, Fated Mates, Enemies to Lovers, MMC/FMC is/are on the Run, Loss of Sibling (Death), Loss of Parent (Death)
-

Love Bites Really Hard (Book 4) by Lola Glass
⭐ 3.75
HOT, HEA
“Accidental mate with a monster that's too nice so the monster king, a gargoyle, steps in to mate instead. Not enough gargoyle sexy time. But a great story.” - Cardigan B
Fated Mates, MMC/FMC is/are on the Run, Obsessive MMC, Forced Proximity, Protective MMC, Human/Demon Relationship, Shifters, Rescue, Fake Relationship, Friendship Group, Power Struggle, MC has Interfering Family, Strong Sister Bond, Monster MMC
-

Love Bites Extra Hard (Book 5) by Lola Glass
⭐ 4.0
HOT, HEA
“Aw, the scales. Avery volunteers her siren services to Talon, the dragon king. Unfortunately for Avery, Talon finds out she's his fated mate. She collects his scales and feels weirdly drawn to them. It's so sweet. They also decapitate a murderer together. That's nice.” - Cardigan B
Fated Mates, Dragons, Grumpy/Sunshine, Forced Proximity, Magic, Age Gap Romance, Rescue, Protective MMC, Revenge, FMC & MMC Enter Into A Contract, Strong Sister Bond, Found Family, Enemies to Lovers, Royalty
-

Loving a Vampire is Total Chaos by Aura Hayes
⭐ 4.0
MILD, HEA
Reverse grumpy/sunshine with a fancy free vampire MMC and a serious police detective FMC. The traitorous cat that needs more story time.” - Cardigan B
Vampire, Police Officer/Detective, MC has a Missing Parent, MC has a Sick Parent, Murder Mystery, Fated Mates, Slow Burn, MMC/FMC has a Traitorous Cat
-

Mate by Ali Hazelwood
⭐ 4.0
HOT, HEA
“LOVED the story of "maybe" mates, Serena's sickness, her life as a hybrid. I would have loved for the epilogue to solve some of her hybrid biology questions. The cult plot...felt like a reach.” - Cardigan B
Werewolf Mate, Werewolves, Vampire, Fated Mates, Hybrid, In-Heat, Touch Her and Die Vibes, Enemies to Lovers, Alpha MMC, "Smart, Strong, Independent FMC", Shifters, Wolf/Shifter
-

Metal Slinger by Rachel Schneider
⭐ 4.0
LOW, TO BE CONTINUED
“Ooo this is an epic cliffhanger. FINE. I’ll read the next one.” - Cardigan B
Slow Burn, Magic, MMC/FMC Involved in a Rebellion/Resistance, Forbidden Love Interest, Hidden Royalty, Enemies to Lovers
-

Once Upon a Demon's Heart by K.M. Moronova
⭐ 4.0
MEDIUM, TO BE CONTINUED
“Ooo this one hurts. In a good way. Gods and demons are warring. An arranged marriage is made to save both sides. There’s so much hate.” - Cardigan B
Enemies to Lovers, FMC & MMC Enter Into A Contract, Arranged Marriage, Cliffhanger Ending, Dub-Con, God/Demon
-

Once Upon a Pack by Ari Wright
⭐ 4.0
HOT, HEA
“This was a cozy retelling of Cinderella. Stepsisters who don't respect her, she has no family left, she was abandoned by the boy she loved, and he doesn't recognize her as his maid. When they realized, they embraced her wholly.” - Cardigan B
Omegaverse, Destitute FMC, Rags to Royalty, Royal/Commoner, Age 20+ FMC, Childhood Sweethearts
-

Queen Takes Knights by Joely Sue Burkhart
⭐ 4.0
HOT, HEA
“I loved this story. She's a forgotten vampire queen and she's found by two knights who swear an oath to protect her. She learns about her heritage and strange urges and embraces it, which is a nice change from the FMCs who choose denial.” - Cardigan B
Vampire, Fated Mates, Why Choose, MMC/FMC Involved in a Rebellion, Royalty, Magic, MMC/FMC is/are on the Run, Rescue, Reverse Harem, Hidden Royalty, Hidden Powers, Hidden Identity, Bodyguard
-

Rejected (Book 1) by Jaymin Eve
⭐ 4.0
MILD, TO BE CONTINUED
“She's the offspring shifter of a PACK traitor who never fit in. He's the creator of shifters and really pissed off. She's not afraid of him and he's into that. This story evolves into a totally different one than you expect. Well done.” - Cardigan B
Wolf/Shifter, Forbidden Love Interest, Kidnapping, Fated Mates, "Smart, Strong, Independent FMC", Age Gap Romance, God/Human, FMC & MMC Enter Into A Contract, Grumpy/Sunshine, Sweet & Spicy Banter, Loss of Parent (Death), Virgin FMC, Shunned FMC
-

Reclaimed (Book 2) by Jaymin Eve
⭐ 4.0
MEDIUM, TO BE CONTINUED
“Oooo this one got goooooood. Spicier, more unexpected drama, a twist I did NOT see coming. And as you get to know the whole group, you see how well the characters were written. Mera does have some "not like other girls-look at me" vibes, but not always.” - Cardigan B
Wolf/Shifter, Forbidden Love Interest, Fated Mates, Age Gap Romance, God/Human, FMC & MMC Enter Into A Contract, Grumpy/Sunshine, Sweet & Spicy Banter, Loss of Parent (Death), Shunned FMC, Revenge, Virgin FMC
-

Smoke and Scar by Gretchen Powell Fox
⭐ 4.0
MILD, TO BE CONTINUED
“Ooo this was fun. Enter these games. Win a crown. Also don’t die. Okay, maybe die, too.” - Cardigan B
Enemies to Lovers, Age Gap Romance, Fae/Fairies, Rescue, MC is trapped, Hunger Games Vibes, Loss of Spouse/Partner (Death), Childhood Friends Reunion
-

Sweetling (Book 3) by S.E. Wendel
⭐ 4.0
MEDIUM, HEA
“Best #3 book in a series you could ever want. Precious. What a rebound from a boring #2. Read book 1 ‘Halfling’ if you haven’t.” - Cardigan B
Age Gap Romance, Fae/Fairies, Fated Mates, Different Worlds, Loss of Parent (Death), MC has a Tragic Past
-

Viciously Yours by Jamie Applegate Hunter
⭐ 4.0
HOT, HEA
“She's an orphan in the human lands. He's a fae king and her fated mate. They spend 10 years learning about each other through letters and finally meet. Easy love, fuck Ora, and long live the king.” - Cardigan B
Fae/Fairies, Fated Mates, MMC/FMC has a Cute Cat, Loss of Parent (Death), MC has a Missing Sibling, Happily Ever After (HEA), Mistaken Identity, MC is a Twin, MC is/has a Foster Kid, Virgin MMC, Childhood Promise Fulfilled, Female Friendship Group, MC Loves to Read, Touch Her and Die Vibes, Age 20+ FMC
-

The Wraith King by Juliette Cross
⭐ 4.0
HOT, HEA
“Loved these characters. Una wasn't violently virgin. It was hard to figure out why the war started. But this was a great read.” - Cardigan B
Royalty, Slow Burn, Forbidden Love Interest, Touch Her and Die Vibes, Arranged Marriage, FMC & MMC Enter Into A Contract, MC has a Tragic Past, Hidden Powers, Virgin
-

Xantera by Mariah Montoya & Grace Pearce
⭐ 4.0
MILD, TO BE CONTINUED
“Reminded me of Anthem by Ayn Rand - a Dystopian settlement and rules that stifle existence. She's a sheltered, rule-following plebe. He's a roaring monster outside the city. She starts asking questions she shouldn’t.” - Cardigan B
Vampire, Werewolves, Age Gap Romance, MC has a Missing Parent, Rescue, FMC Involved in a Rebellion/Resistance, MC has/is Escaped/Escaping a Cult/Sect, Survival, Kidnapping, Hidden Identity, Arranged Marriage, Cliffhanger Ending
-

The Awakening (Book 1) by Caroline Peckham & Susanne Valenti
⭐ 3.75
MILD, TO BE CONTINUED
“The twins are kind of stupid. I got them mixed up at first and then decided that T for Tory = Tough and D for Darcy = Dumb.” - Penelope Black
“I'll read the next book to see if these girls stay illiterate.” - Cardigan B
Enemies to Lovers, Bully Romance, Reverse Harem, Academic Setting, Academic Rivals, Fae/Fairies, Vampire, Werewolves, Magical Binding, Forced Proximity, Social Class Divide
-

Ruthless Fae (Book 2) by Caroline Peckham & Suanne Valenti
⭐ 3.75
MEDIUM, TO BE CONTINUED
“This one was definitely better than the first one. I felt for Blue when she had a bald spot and would kill for a hair growth potion. The twins are really excusing the abuse they suffered at the hands of the heirs. It’s hard to read.” - Penelope Black
Enemies to Lovers, Bully Romance, Reverse Harem, Academic Setting, Magical Binding, Fae/Fairies, Vampire, Werewolves, Forced Proximity, Revenge, Past Coming Back to Haunt Them, Twins, Hidden Royalty, Royal/Commoner, Rags to Riches, Class Differences, Forgiveness Arc, Dark Academia
-

The Reckoning (Book 3) by Caroline Peckham & Susanne Valenti
⭐ 3.75
HOT, TO BE CONTINUED
“Freaking yes. We got some major action and some non-Academy story. Darius keeps disappointing me, but he's so broken by his dad that I can kinda get it. But Tory is over it. I can't wait to see what happens with the 5th element in book 4.” - Cardigan B
Enemies to Lovers, Bully Romance, Reverse Harem, Academic Setting, Academic Rivals, Fae/Fairies, Vampire, Werewolves, Forced Proximity, Chosen One, Revenge, Dark Academia, Twins, Soulmate Marks
-

Shadow Princess (Book 4) by Caroline Peckham & Susanne Valenti
⭐ 4.0
MEDIUM, TO BE CONTINUED
“This was my favorite of the series. TORY IS A BITCH. The whole book was her having these complex thoughts and then taking the shallowest, most selfish action possible.” - Cardigan B
Enemies to Lovers, Bully Romance, Reverse Harem, Academic Setting, Academic Rivals, Fae/Fairies, Vampire, Social Class Divide, Resistance, Chosen One, Survival, Revenge, Dark Academia, Twins, Obsessive MMC, Soulmate Marks
-

By the Orchid and the Owl (Book 1) by Mariah Montoya
⭐ 3.75
MILD, TO BE CONTINUED
“Academic setting, but the intrigue and underlying government conspiracy is enough to carry the story. Loved the main characters.” - Cardigan B
Academic Setting, Age Gap - Older MMC / Younger FMC, Loss of Sibling (Death), Loss of Parent (Death), Hidden Powers, Magic
-

By The Moonbeam and the Mist (Book 2) by Mariah Montoya
⭐ 3.75
MILD, TO BE CONTINUED
“Really enjoyed this second book in the series. I was dreading this one because of the book 1 cliffhanger. But the puzzle of piecing her memories together was well done.” - Cardigan B
Academic Setting, Age Gap Romance, Magic, Rescue, Hidden Powers, Reformed Bad Boy/Girl, Loss of Sibling (Death), Loss of Parent (Death)
-

Behooved by M. Stevenson
⭐ 3.75
MEDIUM, HEA
“This took me by surprise. The first ¼ of the book was dry. But when the horsing around happens, it's so ridiculous that it breaks the tension and just lets you enjoy the rest. It’s a fun one.” - Cardigan B
MMC/FMC has a Cute Horse, Royalty, Arranged Marriage, Magic, Strong Sister Bond
-

Black & Silver by Gwendolyn Harper
⭐ 3.75
HOT, HEA
“This book is fun and hot. A witch is hired by an incubus to do witchy things. They fall in love. I have a hot take, though. It has too much consent. Especially for a being from Hell to be so concerned about friendly touches.” - Cardigan B
Witch/Warlock/Wizard, BDSM, Morally Grey MMC, Immortal/Mortal, Forbidden Love Interest, Opposites Attract
-

Blackthorn by J.T. Geissinger
⭐ 3.75
HOT, HEA
“What in the everloving mind games was that? The last 10% was a roller coaster of awesome. Maven was a pain in the ass. So hardheaded and stubborn. And did she or did she not get railed in the greenhouse??” - Cardigan B
Return to Hometown, Second Chance, Accidental/Surprise Pregnancy, MC has Interfering Family, Hate to Love You, Family Rivalry, Witch/Warlock/Wizard, Demons, Small Town, Murder Mystery, Loss of Parent (Death), Rich/Wealthy MMC, Rescue, Shunned FMC, Billionaire
-

Caraval by Stephanie Garber
⭐ 3.75
MILD, TO BE CONTINUED
“Similar to world to Phantasma. Two sisters enter Caraval to gain a favor to avoid an unwanted marriage. Cool world, clever, fun.” - Cardigan B
Young Adult, Strong Sister Bond, Competition Romance, Rescue, MC has a Missing Sibling, Hidden Identity, Secret Identity, Arranged Marriage, Witty Banter, Circus, Hidden Powers, Magic, Portal to Another World, Secret/Elite Society
-

City of Thorns (Book 1) by C.N. Crawford
⭐ 3.75
MILD, TO BE CONTINUED
“She's just a human trying to avenge her mother's murder. But the murderer is probably a god. Oh and she's definitely more than she seems. From underdog to survivor, Rowan is a fun FMC to read. And Orion, bastard that he is, sounds like her perfect match.” - Cardigan B
Age Gap Romance, Enemies to Lovers, Magic, Royalty, Hidden Identity, Loss of Parent (Death), FMC & MMC Enter Into A Contract, Immortal/Mortal, God/Goddess, Murder Mystery
-

Lord of Embers (Book 2) by C.N. Crawford
⭐ 3.75
MEDIUM, TO BE CONTINUED
“Confirmed: Orion is a bastard. Rowan now has two missions: Kill her mother's murderer and prevent Orion from ruling the kingdom. She's unprepared, but not undeterred. Being part of her journey toward greatness is such fun.” - Cardigan B
Age Gap Romance, Enemies to Lovers, Magic, Royalty, Hidden Identity, Loss of Parent (Death), FMC & MMC Enter Into A Contract, Immortal/Mortal, God/Goddess, Murder Mystery
-

A Court of Thorns and Roses (Book 1) by Sarah J. Maas
⭐ 3.75
MEDIUM, TO BE CONTINUED
“This book was fine as a world building introduction, but not nearly as good as books 2 and 3.” - Cardigan B
Fae/Fairies, Monster/Human Romance, Magic, Learning a New World, Shapeshifter Romance, Cursed MMC, Rich/Wealthy MMC, Forced Proximity, Kidnapping, Captive Falls for Captor (Not Stockholm Syndrome), Beauty & The Beast Vibes, Fairytale Retelling, FMC Gives Herself as Payment, Loss of Parent (Death)
-

A Court of Mist and Fury (Book 2) by Sarah. J. Maas
⭐ 4.5
MEDIUM, HEA
“My God, is there a better Shadow Daddy than Rhys? No. I'll fight you. This is the best book in the series. No question.” - Cardigan B
Fae/Fairies, Enemies to Lovers, Fated Mates, MMC/FMC Involved in a Rebellion/Resistance, MMC Falls First, Found Family, Slow Burn, Strong Sister Bond, Age Gap Romance, Shadow Daddy, FMC & MMC Enter Into A Contract, Survival, Cursed MMC, Learning a New World, Overcoming Past Trauma
-

A Court of Wings and Ruin (Book 3) by Sarah J. Maas
⭐ 4.0
MEDIUM, HEA
“I enjoyed the story and world development I fucking hate Nesta so this will be the last book I read in the series.” - Cardigan B
Fated Mates, MMC/FMC Involved in a Rebellion/Resistance, Touch Her and Die Vibes, Shadow Daddy, Loss of Parent (Death), Politics, MMC/FMC have to stop the end of the world, Power Struggle, Rescue, MMC Previously Abused
-

Dark Prince's Captive (Book 1) by Anna Zaires & Charmaine Pauls
⭐ 3.75
MEDIUM, HEA
“I read this because I saw it on Instagram and it's 240 pages. It was much more interesting than I expected. A sick woman is portaled to another world...and cured. And betrothed. And talks to dragons.” - Cardigan B
Fated Mates, Dragons, Portal to Another World, Different Worlds, Royal/Commoner, Alien/Human, Mysterious Illness, Magic
-

Dark Prince's Mate (Book 2) by Anna Zaires & Charmaine Pauls
☆ 3.75
HOT, HEA
“Just as good as the first one. The real enemy in this story is revealed and...yeah, it makes sense, but besides a lengthy soliloquy from the villain, there weren't nuggets to lead you to the conclusion.” - Cardigan B
Fated Mates, Rejected Mate, Learning a New World, Magic, Hidden Powers, Hidden Royalty, Hidden Identity, Enemies to Lovers, Slavery, Auction, Portal to Another World
-

Dating After the End of the World by Jeneva Rose
⭐ 3.75
MILD, HEA
“Civilization collapses and two people with childhood history must find a way to coexist with each other and other survivors. She is the forgiving type, but there's not enough grovelling.” - Cardigan B
Dystopian, Enemies to Lovers, MC is a Bully, FMC is back from the dead, Rescue, Loss of Parent, Survival, Military, Slow Burn
-

The Deathless One by Emma Hamm
⭐ 3.75
MEDIUM, TO BE CONTINUED
“She's the soul of a princess murdered at her wedding and betrayed by the people she trusted. He's the god of death chillin in a pocket world where he was banished by witches. He resurrects her to seek both of their revenges. Multiple revenges.” - Cardigan B
Loss of Parent (Death), Revenge, MMC/FMC has a Cute Cat, MMC/FMC is back from the dead, Slow Burn
-

Empire of Flame and Thorns by Marion Blackwood
⭐ 3.75
MEDIUM, HEA
“I’m here for the dryads and that crazy cliffhanger.” - Cardigan B
Fae/Fairies, Shifters, Dragons, MMC/FMC Involved in a Rebellion/Resistance, Hunger Games Vibes
-

Feathers So Vicious (Book 1) by Liv Zander
⭐ 3.75
HOT, HEA
“‘My asshole winking in greeting at him!’ Bahaha. Well that's a new one.” - Penelope Black
Time Travel, Regency/Georgian/Victorian Period, Scottish MMC, English FMC, Slow Burn, Marriage of Convenience, Tortured MMC, Politics
-

Shadows So Cruel (Book 2) by Liv Zander
⭐ 3.5
HOT, HEA
“This book was deflating compared to the first. It was the same book, but just less of everything: darkness, twists, intrigue.” - Cardigan B
Love Triangle, Slow Burn, MFM, Enemies to Lovers, Reverse Harem, Shapeshifter Romance, Shifters, Fated Mates, Forced Proximity, Shadow Daddy, Revenge, Arranged Marriage, Marriage of Convenience, Age 20+ FMC, Age 20+ MMC, Dub-Con, Virgin FMC, Possessive MMC, Tortured MMC, BDSM, Blood Play, Cliffhanger Ending, To-Be Continued, Redemption
-

Forged in Blood by Sadie Kincaid
⭐ 3.75
HOT, TO BE CONTINUED
“This is a dark, bully romance that’s pretty good, but be warned: Book 2 isn’t as good.” - Cardigan B
Vampire, Hidden Powers, Hidden Identity, Dark Academia, Academic Setting, Age Gap Romance, Learning a New World, Why Choose
-

Forsaken Mate by Vasilisa Drake
⭐ 3.75
MILD, TO BE CONTINUED
“Heartbroken by chapter 3. She’s a wolf shifter who finds her fated mate. He kills her. She finds herself in purgatory with an unlikely ally who helps her understand her place in the world.” - Cardigan B
Fated Mates, Wolf/Shifter, MMC/FMC is back from the dead, Murder Mystery, Mentor/Protege
-

A Game of Malice and Greed by Caroline Peckham & Susanne Valenti
☆ 3.75
MILD, TO BE CONTINUED
“The last 75 pages are a 5/5. The book is primarily a buddy comedy with strong Aladdin vibes. This also had the most descriptive way I've ever heard "women's intuition" described: “a feeling in your lady waters.”” - Cardigan B
Fae/Fairies,MMCs are on the Run, FMC previo us abused (not by MMC), Royalty, Hidden Identity, Fairytale Retelling, Morally Grey MMC, Forbidden Love Interest
-

Given (Book 1) by Amy Pennza
⭐ 3.75
HOT, TO BE CONTINUED
“Her name is Given. sigh. She’s sold to the enemy to avoid war because she’s part vampire and her human realm despises her. The vampires take her, but she’s not ready for the king…and his general.” - Cardigan B
Vampire, Reverse Harem, Arranged Marriage, Hidden Powers, MMF
-

Stolen (Book 2) by Amy Pennza
⭐ 3.75
HOT, TO BE CONTINUED
“This one had so much more history and spent a lot of time explaining. It was good, but it was a deluge and hard to follow.” - Cardigan B
Vampire, Royalty, Reverse Harem, Morally Grey MMC, Military, Kidnapping, Magic, Forced Proximity, Enemies to Lovers, Possessive MMC, Obsessive MMC, MMC/FMC have to stop the end of the world, Past Coming Back to Haunt Them, Hidden Powers, Loss of Parent (Death), MMF
-

Kept (Book 3) by Amy Pennza
⭐ 3.5
HOT, HEA
“I felt an obligation to finish this series. It was fine. I liked that fate was unavoidable and Given ended up in the pit anyway. Author lost some creativity and just re-wrote scenes from the first two books. The story twists were fun.” - Cardigan B
Vampire, Royalty, Reverse Harem, Kidnapping, MMC/FMC have to stop the end of the world, Portal to Another World, Why Choose, Hidden Powers, Arranged Marriage, Gang Wars, MMF
-

A Kingdom of Stars and Shadows by Holly Renee
⭐ 3.75
HOT, TO BE CONTINUED
“I don’t fully understand ‘Starblessed’ but I enjoyed the book. It’s hot. Lots of chemistry.” - Cardigan B
Royal/Commoner, Fated Mates, Vampire, Hidden Powers, Loss of Parent (Death), Different Worlds
-

Kings and Bones by Juliette Cross
⭐ 3.75
MILD, HEA
“There’s something to be said for an FMC who sees her world and accepts her circumstances. Murgha is a positive, class act.” - Cardigan B
Fae/Fairies, Fated Mates, Age Gap Romance, Rescue, Strong Sister Bond, Hidden Identity, Hidden Powers
-

Magical Midlife Madness by K.F. Breene
⭐ 3.75
MILD, TO BE CONTINUED
“I loved a 40+ FMC and they did her right. She moves into a magical house and meets the magical caretakers of the property who are her neighbors.” - Cardigan B
Hidden Powers, Age 40+ FMC, Separated/Divorcing/Divorced, Haunted, Isolated, Mysterious Land, Slow Burn, Shifter, Paranormal Protection
-

Never Keep by Caroline Peckham & Susanne Valenti
⭐ 3.75
MEDIUM, TO BE CONTINUED
“Zodiac Academy universe - I rated this one slightly lower because it took FOREVER for the plot to advance for our other FMC Everest. The last 150 pages are a ruckus. Will read the next one. They're 700 pages so strap in.” - Cardigan B
Dystopian, Enemies to Lovers, MMC/FMC Involved in a Rebellion, Power Struggle, Loss of Parent (Death), Survival, Found Family, MC has Bullying Siblings, Abusive Parent(s), Childhood Trauma
-

Phantasma by Kaylie Smith
⭐ 3.75
MEDIUM, HEA
“Oooo this was a fun one. I'm still confused about why she would just...sign up for Phantasma on a whim (she's not a whim lady) but the trials were cool and I liked Blackwell.” - Cardigan B
Competition/Trials, Ghost Romance, Enemies to Lovers, Morally Grey MMC, Forced Proximity, Haunted, Isolated, Mysterious Land, Forbidden Love Interest, Mental Health, Time Travel, Portal to Another World
-

The Queen's Line by Kathryn Moon
⭐ 3.75
HOT, TO BE CONTINUED
“Suspend belief. The plot is about how when royalty orgasms, it grows crops and repairs buildings. It’s a story about the second sister who feels inept and brings her supporters together to prove she can rule the kingdom. With helpful orgasms.” - Cardigan B
Royalty, Why Choose, Forced Proximity, Politics, Slow Burn, Age Gap Romance
-

Real Alphas Bite (Book 1) by C.R. Jane & Mila Young
⭐ 3.75
MEDIUM, TO BE CONTINUED
“I'm such a fiend for a rejected mate story. And this one is good. She's rejected but kept as a slave in her pack until she's traded to pay a debt. She is taken to an island where she meets 3 brothers and wins their cold, dead hearts.” - Cardigan B
Fated Mates, Rejected Mate, Wolf/Shifter, Kidnapping, Down on Her Luck FMC, MC is involved in Organized Crime, On An Island, Shunned FMC, Age Gap, MC is trapped, Why Choose, Cursed FMC, Magic
-

Real Alphas Mate (Book 2) by C.R. Jane & Mila Young
⭐ 3.25
HOT, HEA
“This one just had too many things: Syn is kidnapped by her rejected mate and beaten. Then she's rescued. Then she's pregnant but losing the baby. Then she gets magical powers from a dirty lake. Then her baby is safe. Then she has to best a witch. And then she has twins. Magically appearing plot points with little development.” - Cardigan B
Fated Mates, Kidnapping, Rescue, On An Island, Gang Wars, Surprise Pregnancy, Why Choose, Witch/Warlock/Wizard, Magic, Werewolf Mate
-

Rhapsodic by Laura Thalassa
⭐ 3.75
HOT, HEA
“Unique story and relationship between the MCs. The connection between them was interesting, but there didn’t seem to be a reason they loved each other. Like we just skipped ahead to that part. Felt empty.” - Cardigan B
FMC & MMC Enter Into A Contract, Magic, Fae/Fairies, Murder Mystery, Opposites Attract, Age Gap Romance
-

River of Shadows by Karina Halle
⭐ 3.75
HOT, TO BE CONTINUED
“She travels to the underworld to find her father. She’s kidnapped and kept by Hades. It’s a cool Persephone and Hades retelling.” - Cardigan B
Folklore Romance, Kidnapping, MC is trapped, Loss of Parent (Death), Cliffhanger Ending
-

Run, Run Rabbit by C.M. Nascosta
⭐ 3.75
HOT, HEA
“Really fun read and the structure of the story was intriguing - start with setting today, jump back and go through each of their 6 years together, back to Lupercalia. They were both so vindictive, using other sexual partners to be petty. I hated that.” - Cardigan B
Fated Mates, Workplace Romance, Story Told in Past and Present, Lawyer, Rich/Wealthy MMC, Knotting, Short/Novella, Redemption, Alpha MMC, Sassy Heroine
-

The Serpent and the Wings of Night by Carissa Broadbent
⭐ 3.75
MEDIUM, TO BE CONTINUED
“She is the king’s daughter. He’s from an enemy race of vampires. They ally together and find that their differences aren’t that profound. Also, that cave scene.” - Cardigan B
Vampire, Enemies to Lovers, Slow Burn, Forced Proximity, Forbidden Love Interest, Political Opponents, FMC & MMC Enter Into A Contract
-

Stolen by the Wolves by Lyx Robinson
⭐ 3.75
MEDIUM, TO BE CONTINUED
“This had a lot of set up, which made me almost DNF, but the story was great once the FMC and MMC made contact. It just took some time. I will definitely read the next book.” - Cardigan B
Viking, Fated Mates, Omegaverse, Kidnapping, Forbidden Love Interest, Hidden Powers, Politics, To-Be Continued (TBC), Dub-Con, Royalty, Loss of Sibling (Death)
-

Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas
⭐ 3.75
MILD, TO BE CONTINUED
“Waited too long to read this. It’s good. We’ll read the series.” - Cardigan B
Royalty, Assassin, FMC & MMC Enter Into A Contract, Contract Killer, MMC/FMC has been to Prison, Loss of Parent (Death)
-

A Touch of Darkness by Scarlett St. Clair
⭐ 3.75
MEDIUM, HEA
Another telling of Persephone and Hades, Hades is dark but Persephone was whiny. I just kept screaming: "look inward". - Cardigan B
Mythology Retelling, Grumpy/Sunshine, God/Human, Forbidden Love Interest, Slow Burn, Protective MMC, Touch Her and Die Vibes, Secret Relationship, Politics, FMC & MMC Enter Into A Contract
-

Trial of the Sun Queen by Nisha J. Tuli
⭐ 3.75
MILD, TO BE CONTINUED
“A lot of world building, not much romance.” - Penelope Black
Fae/Fairies, Fated Mates, Hunger Games Vibes, Kidnapping, Secret Identity
-

Wolf Gone Wild by Juliette Cross
⭐ 3.75
MEDIUM, HEA
“Evie and Mateo are adorable. I'm not sure I'll read the rest of the series. The sister stories weren't developed to interest me, except Jules.” - Cardigan B
Werewolf Mate, Fated Mates, Witch/Warlock/Wizard, Strong Sister Bond, Cursed MMC, Age 20+ MMC, Slow Burn
-

All's Fair in Love and Magic by Lola Glass
⭐ 3.5
MEDIUM, HEA
“I love Lola Glass because her books are quick palette cleansers. Cute story about a witch seeking asylum and ending up married.” - Cardigan B
Witch/Warlock/Wizard, Dragons, FMC & MMC Enter Into A Contract, Arranged Marriage, Power Struggle, MMC/FMC is/are on the Run, MC is trapped
-

Blue Moon by Lori Handeland
⭐ 3.5
MILD, HEA
“She’s a deputy sheriff investigating unexplained attacks. He’s a mysterious local lecturer who hates wearing shirts. They find themselves at the center of a global conspiracy.” - Cardigan B
Wolf/Shifter, Police Officer/Detective, Indigenous MMC, Mysterious Illness, MMC/FMC have to stop the end of the world
-

The Bridge Kingdom by Danielle Jensen
⭐ 3.5
MILD, HEA
“Slow, boring, flat characters. The FMC is definition of watching paint dry. And it's infuriating to watch her keep trying to get home, like she wasn't married off to another land and there'd be something waiting for her there.” - Cardigan B
Arranged Marriage, Wartime Wedding, Royalty, Opposites Attract, Rescue, Spy, Learning a New World, Slow Burn, "Young, Innocent, Naive FMC", Virgin FMC, MMC/FMC Enter Relationship Under False Pretenses, Blackmail
-

Caged Wolf by Carline Peckham & Susanne Valenti
⭐ 3.5
MEDIUM, TO BE CONTINUED
“The entire plot unfolds in one place: Magical Prison. I'm torn. I liked this plot and I'm interested in the next book, but I'm not fully bought in on the characters. Love the mystery of the psych ward.” - Cardigan B
Wolf/Shifter, Shifters, Fated Mates, Longtime Crush, MMC/FMC has been to Prison, Vampire, Alpha FMC, Alpha MMC, Mafia/Organized Crime, FMC previous abused (not by MMC), Reverse Harem
-

Fated to the Wolf Prince (Book 1) by April L. Moon
⭐ 3.5
LOW, HEA
“Good book, the second one is even better. Start this series if you like shifters and fated mates.” - Cardigan B
Wolf/Shifter, Fated Mates, Overcoming Past Trauma, Protective MMC, Hidden Powers
-

Fated to the Feral Wolf (Book 2) by April L. Moon
⭐ 3.75
MILD, HEA
“His name is Dirge. That's unfortunate. Story about a feral wolf who meets his mate when he’s in his feral form. She brings the good out of him. Better than book 1.” - Cardigan B
Wolf/Shifter, Fated Mates, Overcoming Past Trauma, Protective MMC, Hidden Identity, Opposites Attract, MC has a Tragic Past, FMC previous abused (not by MMC)
-

Hot for Slayer by Ali Hazelwood
⭐ 3.5
MEDIUM, HEA
“Lazlo’s voice on the audiobook wasn’t as sexy as it was…gruff. The story was fun: a vampire and her slayer in a centuries-long standoff. Fun, but not as immersive as her usual work.” - Cardigan B
Vampire, Enemies to Lovers, Folklore Romance, Story Told in Past and Present, Slow Burn, MMC/FMC has Amnesia, Short/Novella
-

Lightlark by Alex Aster
⭐ 3.5
MILD, TO BE CONTINUED
“The first three-fourths of the book is world building, so beware. Once the plot begins to turn, things move quickly. It’s clever” - Cardigan B
Competition/Trials, Love Triangle, Enemies to Lovers, Forgotten Past/Loss of Time, Chosen One, Betrayal & Secrets, Morally Grey (MMC), Hidden Past
-

Mate Hunt (Books 1-4) by Lola Glass
⭐ 3.5
MEDIUM, HEA
“Shifters shifters everywhere. The FMCs are all a little odd, but the HEAs are nice.” - Cardigan B
Shifters, Fated Mates, Band of Brothers, Virgin MMC, Down on Her Luck FMC, Kidnapping
-

The Right Thing to Do by LovesBitca8
⭐ 3.5
MILD, HEA
“A Harry Potter fan fic? F*ck yes. This ones has Hermione’s first time so…just know that.” - Cardigan B
Harry Potter Vibes, Dramione Fanfic, Age 20+ FMC, Age 20+ MMC, Magic, Enemies to Lovers, Second Chance
-

Savage Hope (Book 1) by KC Kean
⭐ 3.5
MILD, TO BE CONTINUED
Polaris's life sucks. You're drawn in early to see her fight and battle her way through the shitty hand she's been dealt. But things move so slowly it's hard to be enraptured.” - Cardigan B
Age 20+ FMC, Age 20+ MMC, Reverse Harem, Cursed Love, Forced Proximity, Found Family, Dark Academia, Witch, Vampire, Werewolves, MMC/FMC has Amnesia
-

Savage Torment (Book 3) by KC Kean
⭐ 3.75
HOT, TO BE CONTINUED
“Best one in the series - Polaris is finally past her whiny stage, the spice really spices, and the plot is revealed--it's cool. And way more intricate than you think.” - Cardigan B
Age 20+ FMC, Age 20+ MMC, Reverse Harem, Cursed Love, Forced Proximity, Found Family, Fated Mates, Dark Academia, MMC/FMC Involved in a Rebellion, Witch/Warlock/Wizard, Vampire, Werewolf Mate, Werewolves, MMC/FMC has Amnesia, Past Coming Back to Haunt Them
-

The Spellshop by Sarah Beth Durst
⭐ 3.5
MILD, HEA
“Well-written and interesting plot. It's a bit...dry. She makes and sells jam. Uses some spells. Worries A LOT about people interacting with her. She's brusque unnecessarily and spends so many pages justifying her prickly attitude. You'd think a story about rebellion would be higher octane.” - Cardigan B
Small Town Return, Magic, MMC/FMC is/are on the Run, Loss of Parent (Death), Down on Her Luck FMC, Female Friendship Group, Food is Love, MC Loves to Read, Age 20+ FMC
-

Taken by Fate by Shannon Mayer
⭐ 3.5
MILD, TO BE CONTINUED
“She got herself captured on purpose to save her friend. He leads the vampire army she’s sold to and makes an unlikely ally in Sienna.” - Cardigan B
Vampire, Kidnapping, Auction, Enemies to Lovers, "Mysterious, Brooding (MMC)", Slow Burn, Cliffhanger Ending
-

Wild Moon (Book 1) by C.R. Jane & Mila Young
⭐ 3.5
MILD, TO BE CONTINUED
“It picked up in the last 10% but this was a slow unfold. The flashbacks were great: revealing, heartbreaking, and interesting. The story told in the current timeline is passive. If you're looking for action, this isn't it. But the cliffhanger is enough to get me into the next book.” - Cardigan B
Wolf/Shifter, Fated Mates, Enemies to Lovers, Down on Her Luck FMC, Love Triangle, Alpha MMC, FMC is on the Run, FMC previous abused (not by MMC), Cliffhanger Ending, Hate to Love You
-

Wild Heart (Book 2) by C.R. Jane & Mila Young
⭐ 3.5
HOT, TO BE CONTINUED
“A whole book and we still don't know what happened to Eve. More kidnapping. More questions. No answers.” - Cardigan B
Alpha MMC, Small Town, MMC/FMC is/are on the Run, Overcoming Past Trauma, Fated Mates, Murder Mystery, Serial Killer, Wolf/Shifter, Cursed FMC, Grumpy/Sunshine, MMC is A Golden Retriever, Rejected Mate, Revenge, Rescue, Kidnapping
-

Wild Girl (Book 3) by C.R. Jane & Mila Young
⭐ 3.5
HOT, TO BE CONTINUED
“Aaaand we're still no closer to answers on the killer. Wilder finally had enough of Rune’s shit, thank God. Rune is the most oblivious, selfish, callous FMC we've had in a while. "Oh no, I'm so sad about Wilder leaving because he doesn't want to share. My heart is broken." Also: "Daxon fucked me on the floor to cure my sorrow."" - Cardigan B
In-Heat, Fae/Fairies, Magic, Small Town, Overcoming Past Trauma, MC Sees Ghosts, Fated Mates, Murder Mystery, Serial Killer, Grumpy/Sunshine, MMC is A Golden Retriever, Rejected Mate
@35CARDIGANS @BLACKCAT100
Find us on The StoryGraph
Join The StoryGraph, our romance book tracking app of choice. Scope out our TBRs, see which titles we’ve read, and watch us rate in real time. Just more proof that we’re humans.
(Yea, we also use goodreads…but so do our families. Who we’re connected to).
Sizzle Scale
HOT
(Blazing & Explicit): This is the full five-alarm fire. Bedroom doors are flung wide open, and the scenes are DETAILED, EXPLICIT, and SCORCHING HOT.
MEDIUM
(Simmering & Steamy): Expect passionate kisses that don't always fade to black. Could be graphic, but probably one scene that goes full throttle.
MILD
(Sweet & Tender): Expect sweet sighs, maybe a stolen, chaste kiss or two, and plenty of heartwarming moments that make you go "awww." If things get more intimate, the bedroom door gently clicks shut (fade-to-black).
FLOUR
(Platonic, if anything): Rare to find around here. This is a book that has…no romance at all. We probably read this by accident.
FAQs
-
A guide to romance novels of all heats and sizes. We’re recommending books we’ve read (we’ve read 1,000s) and telling you what to expect. We’ll help you do your research - your time and money will be happy.
-
‘Happily Ever After’ - nearly every book you find on The Velvet Pages has an ‘HEA’. It means that the story reached a satisfying conclusion. It might say “To Be Continued” which means there’s probably an HEA in the series, but that particular title didn’t resolve the relationship.
-
This is how sexual or sexy a book is. There’s a range: Hot, Medium, Mild, and Flour.
Hot is ‘“holy Hell I’m sweating.”
Medium is steamy.
Mild is tender and sweet.
Flour means there’s nothing romantic here.
We label each book so you know what to expect and you can choose what you’re comfortable reading.
-
We rate each book out of 5. Cardigan B and Penelope Black can rate a book the same score on occasion, but usually the rating you see is an average of their scores.
The ratings are pretty subjective, but include things like:
Did the story make sense?
How did the characters measure up?
Was the writing literate?
Was the premise or were the plot points memorable?
Were the mysteries solved? Did the questions get answered? Did you leave me on ANOTHER CLIFFHANGER, ONYX STORM?
Did the book make us feel something?
Was there a cute cat?
-
We recommend starting with Historical Romance, Fantasy Romance, or Sports Romance. They’re the most popular and you’ll find recognizable tropes.
Start with Mild to Medium heat and definitely choose an HEA.
If you’re still stuck, email us and we can give you some recs!
Heyyyvelvetpages@gmail.com
-
We’ll read pretty much anything. Each month, Penelope and Cardigan select a list of about 20 books to read together. There’s at least one book from each genre and some popular titles that have been recently released.
-
We sure do! It’s called ‘The Velvet Edit’. You can sign up at the top or on the ‘Contact Us’ page. We send out a themed list of recommendations each month and a ‘Quickie’ (a single title spotlight) two weeks later. We won’t spam you.
-
That’s the section of the site where we share what we’re reading this month for our book club. You can check out our other reading lists from the past few months of 2025, too.
-
Nope, not even close. The books on the site are generally the ones we enjoyed the most. Or hit on different trends we see coming up.
-
They are! If you buy from a button click on the site, we might earn a commission. You’re not paying more for the product, though. We’re all about ‘pay less for smut’ around here.
-
We use Storygraph. It has a friendly app interface and has every book we’ve read. It also shows your reading stats, which is unique.
We have separate Goodreads accounts, but they’re connected to our friends and family and…I don’t want them to see that I read the first and second book in a series about a merman with two dicks.
-
MMC is Male Main Character. FMC is female main character.
There are typically one of each, but there can be multiple in genres like Omegaverse or Reverse Harem.
Or, like in the case of Court of Thorns and Roses, the MMC could be one person in one book and another person in another book.
Don’t come at me about ‘spoilers’ - these books were published in 2015.
Email us
Looking for a book recommendation? Want to give us a recommendation you’ve read? Need to yell into the void?

