Weekly Book Recs 29-2025: Dark Romance
- Apollo Imperium
- Jul 18
- 4 min read
WEEKLY BOOK RECS: 6 book reviews and suggestions every week
Dark romance books aren’t for everyone, and that’s kind of the point. These stories play with obsession, power, control, and blurred lines. Sometimes it’s about toxic attraction. Sometimes it’s about surviving something brutal and still finding connection. Either way, these books are messy, intense, and emotionally loaded. If you’re the kind of reader who likes your love stories twisted, a little morally gray, and full of tension that might explode or unravel at any second, this week’s recs are for you. Enter at your own risk.
1. “Haunting Adeline” by H.D. Carlton
⭐ 4.0/5
Tropes/Genre: Stalker romance, gothic suspense, cat-and-mouse
Description:
Adeline inherits a creepy mansion and finds herself being watched by a man who claims to be her protector. Zade is dangerous, obsessive, and clearly not playing by any rules. But Adeline can’t stop wanting him anyway.
Review:
This is a heavy hitter in the dark romance world. It leans into the stalker trope hard and does not hold back. Definitely not for readers who want clean or wholesome, but if you’re into twisted attraction and psychological tension, this one delivers. There’s also a sequel if you want more after the chaos.
2. “The Devil” by Ashley Jade
⭐ 4.1/5
Tropes/Genre: Age gap, teacher-student, enemies to lovers
Description:
She’s a student with a sharp tongue. He’s the new teacher with a past that’s darker than anyone knows. Their attraction is volatile, risky, and completely forbidden. And neither of them wants to back down.
Review:
This book is bold with its taboo, but the emotional undercurrent keeps it grounded. It’s not romantic in the traditional sense, but that’s what makes it work. Tension is high, and the characters are magnetic. Think toxic with depth.
3. “Still Beating” by Jennifer Hartmann
⭐ 4.5/5
Tropes/Genre: Trauma bonding, forced proximity, emotional recovery
Description:
Cora and Dean never liked each other. Then they’re kidnapped and trapped in a basement together, enduring the worst. When they survive, they’re bonded in a way no one understands—and trying to live with what’s left of themselves.
Review:
This is dark, raw, and surprisingly tender. It’s a story about trauma, connection, and how you can still feel love after something unspeakable. Hard to read at times but worth it for the emotional impact.
4. “Sicko” by Amo Jones
⭐ 4.0/5
Tropes/Genre: Brother’s best friend, biker romance, violent past
Description:
Jade’s brother’s best friend leaves without a word. Four years later, he’s back, colder, darker, and not the boy she once knew. He’s part of a violent world now, and Jade is being pulled straight into it.
Review:
This one’s chaotic, steamy, and full of plot twists. If you’re into alpha male energy and don’t mind things getting violent or over the top, it scratches the itch. It’s fast-paced and messy, which honestly makes it kind of addictive.
5. “Praise” by Sara Cate
⭐ 4.2/5
Tropes/Genre: Age gap, forbidden romance, praise kink
Description:
Charlotte shows up at her ex’s dad’s house and ends up working for him. She’s sweet and inexperienced. He’s distant, controlled, and hiding a lot. Their dynamic shifts from awkward to electric real quick.
Review:
Surprisingly wholesome for something labeled dark. The kink is central, but it’s explored with nuance and actual consent. The relationship feels real, even with the taboo setup. Great for readers who want a mix of edge and emotional connection.
6. “Ruthless Creatures” by J.T. Geissinger
⭐ 4.3/5
Tropes/Genre: Mafia romance, grumpy-sunshine, hidden agenda
Description:
Natalie’s fiancé disappeared five years ago. On the anniversary, a stranger shows up at her cabin. He’s violent, mysterious, and clearly hiding something. Still, she can’t stay away.
Review:
If you like your dark romance with mafia danger and real chemistry, this hits the spot. The plot keeps moving, and the main characters have that “we shouldn’t but we will” energy down. A good gateway for readers new to the genre.
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