If your idea of a perfect read involves heart-pounding passion, daring relationships, and a touch of darkness, you’re in the right place. I’ve been hunting down the spiciest romance novels to keep me warm this winter (or any other time of the year), and figured I’d save you all time in the search by making a list. Romance books have long been the ultimate escape, but some books take it a step further, cranking up the heat with bold, boundary-pushing themes and unforgettable characters.
This list isn’t for the faint of heart—these are the spiciest, steamiest, and most unputdownable romances for those who love their stories with a side of danger, intrigue, and a lot of fire. Whether you’re into dark antiheroes, taboo relationships, or fantastical worlds dripping with sensuality, these novels will keep you hooked from the first page to the last.
Ready to dive in? Let’s turn up the heat🔥
Penelope Douglas
If you’re on the hunt for romance novels that crank up the heat and take you deep into the world of taboo desires, look no further than Penelope Douglas. With her Devil’s Night series and standalone novel Credence, Douglas delivers stories that are not just spicy—they’re scorching. These books push boundaries, exploring high-risk, boundary-pushing themes with intensity and raw emotion.
The Devil’s Night Series
Think masked intrigue, predator-prey play, and dark antiheroes with secrets that could burn the world down. The Devil’s Night series revolves around a group of wealthy, privileged bad boys whose infamous pranks during ‘Devil’s Night’ (think mischief on Halloween steroids) come back to haunt them. Each book dives into their twisted pasts, unravelling secrets and introducing you to fierce heroines who match their intensity.
And the spice? Oh, it’s there in spades. With masked predator-prey role-play, consensual non-consent, and tension so thick you could cut it with a knife, Douglas doesn’t hold back. It’s raw, it’s unapologetic, and it’ll leave you fanning yourself more than once.
Where to Start: Corrupt kicks things off with Michael and Rika’s electrifying, dangerous romance. From there, each book peels back the layers of another member of the crew. The series includes Hideaway, Kill Switch, Nightfall, and a novella, Conclave.
Credence
If you’re ready for a standalone that doesn’t just push the envelope—it tears it open—Credence is your book. This one takes the taboo to new heights, following Tiernan de Haas, a young woman grieving her parents’ deaths, who moves to a remote mountain cabin with her step-uncle and his two sons. Yes, it’s as forbidden as it sounds, and yes, it’s completely gripping.
Stranded in isolation, Tiernan navigates complex relationships and primal attraction, exploring her desires in ways she never imagined. There’s polyamory, forced proximity, and plenty of moments that’ll have you squirming (in the best way). The spice is off the charts, but Douglas balances it with deep character growth and emotional depth.
Why These Books Are Must-Reads for Spice Lovers
Both the Devil’s Night series and Credence aren’t just steamy—they’re bold. They explore taboo relationships, high-risk sexual tension, and darker desires with a fearless edge. These books aren’t for everyone, but if you love your romance with a side of danger and a lot of heat, they’re worth every second.
Master of Salt & Bones by Keri Lake
If you’re craving a dark, brooding romance with gothic vibes, forbidden love, and a touch of predator-prey dynamics, Master of Salt & Bones by Keri Lake should be at the top of your list. This book doesn’t just dip its toes into the world of gothic erotic novels—it dives headfirst into the deep end, delivering a story that’s as haunting as it is steamy.
The story centres on Isadora, a young woman with her own scars, who moves into a decaying estate to care for Lucian Blackthorn’s dying mother. Lucian, the master of Salt & Bones, is the quintessential tortured antihero—dark, brooding, and brimming with secrets. He’s the kind of man who keeps everyone at arm’s length, but of course, Isadora can’t resist venturing closer.
What unfolds is a dangerous, intoxicating dance between two people whose lives are steeped in pain, tragedy, and desire. It’s a forbidden love story with heavy predator-prey dynamics and a smouldering tension that builds until you can’t tear yourself away.
Let’s talk about the spice (be honest, that’s the only reason you’re on a list of the spiciest romance novels!). This isn’t your typical romance—it’s dark, edgy, and unapologetically steamy. The predator-prey play is intense, adding an extra layer of forbidden allure to Lucian and Isadora’s dynamic. And yes, there’s consensual non-consent, handled in a way that’s both provocative and deeply tied to the characters’ emotions.
The gothic atmosphere heightens the tension at every turn, from the eerie estate with its crumbling walls to the shadows that seem to echo Lucian’s past. Every scene is dripping with sensuality, danger, and that electric charge of “will they or won’t they?”
Who Should Read It?
If you love:
- Gothic romance novels with haunting settings
- Tortured antiheroes who’ll leave you swooning
- High-stakes, boundary-pushing romance with a darker edge
- Forbidden love stories brimming with raw emotion and tension
…then Master of Salt & Bones is your next must-read.
Keri Lake masterfully weaves eroticism, gothic vibes, and forbidden love into a tale that’s as addictive as it is unforgettable. Master of Salt & Bones isn’t just a spicy romance—it’s an experience. Perfect for readers who like their love stories shadowed by darkness and filled with heat.
Are you ready to enter the world of Salt & Bones? Trust me, this one will stay with you long after you’ve turned the final page.
L.J. Shen
If you love your romance novels with equal parts angst, heat, and bad boys who are as dangerous as they are irresistible, L.J. Shen’s Sinners of Saint and its spin-off series All Saints High are going to wreck you—in the best way possible. These books bring the spice and the drama, with a side of sinful antiheroes and complicated heroines who know how to hold their own.
Sinners of Saint: Where It All Begins
This series introduces the HotHoles (yes, that’s what they’re called), a group of morally grey, alpha-male heroes who rule their world with arrogance, power, and devastating charm. The stories follow these broody, complex men as they fall for women who challenge them at every turn. Expect enemies-to-lovers tension, power struggles, and spicy scenes that will leave you blushing.
- Why It’s Spicy: Dominance, obsession, and raw passion fill every page, with sizzling, steamy moments that push boundaries.
- Books in the Series:
- Vicious (Baron “Vicious” Spencer’s story—a fan favourite!)
- Defy (A teacher-student forbidden romance novella)
Ruckus, Scandalous, and Bane (Each focusing on a different HotHole and their equally intense romances). Fun fact, I’d not come across these novels until after I named my own Bane, so no, there’s no relation, but clearly I’m in good company and yes, mine is also a spicy romance novel!).
All Saints High: The Next Generation
In All Saints High, Shen turns the heat up even more. This spin-off series focuses on the next generation—the children of the HotHoles—and brings a whole new level of drama. These aren’t your typical high school romances; they’re dark, edgy, and unapologetically spicy. The characters are flawed, reckless, and tangled in emotions that spill over into explosive love stories.
Think bad boys who hide their vulnerability beneath sharp edges, and strong heroines who make them work for every moment of connection. There’s a raw intensity to these romances that grabs you and doesn’t let go.
Books in the Series:
- Pretty Reckless – Daria and Penn’s fiery enemies-to-lovers tale.
- Broken Knight – A heart-wrenching romance full of love and loss.
- Angry God – Dark, intense, and brimming with tension.
Why These Series Are Must-Reads
L.J. Shen doesn’t just write romance—she writes experiences. Both series are unapologetically intense, filled with messy emotions, bad decisions, and red-hot chemistry that practically leaps off the page. The predator-prey dynamics, forbidden love themes, and flawed characters make these stories feel raw and real. And let’s not forget the spice: 🌶🌶🌶🌶 all the way through.
Sinners of Saint and All Saints High are for readers who love dark romance with edge, grit, and plenty of heat. They’ll leave you feeling wrecked, swooning, and desperate for more. So grab these books, buckle up, and prepare to be utterly consumed. Just don’t say I didn’t warn you! 😈🔥
Never After Series by Emily McIntire
If you’ve ever wondered what would happen if your favourite fairy tales got a dark, sultry makeover, Emily McIntire’s Never After series has you covered. These are not your childhood bedtime stories—think forbidden love, morally grey heroes, and smouldering chemistry that burns up the pages. The Never After series reimagines classic fairy tale characters in modern, dark, and tantalisingly spicy ways.
Each book in this series is a standalone romance inspired by a beloved fairy tale, but with a darker, grittier twist. Instead of the happily-ever-afters we grew up with, McIntire gives us steamy, angst-filled tales that explore forbidden desires, broken characters, and relationships that push the limits.
The spice level is through the roof with explicit scenes that sizzle, intense emotional tension, and dynamics that range from enemies-to-lovers to forbidden romance. The dark undertones and complex character arcs make the spice all the more satisfying.
Books in the Series:
- Hooked (2021): A dark reimagining of Peter Pan, focusing on James’s quest for revenge against Peter Michaels, complicated by his entanglement with Wendy.
- Scarred (2022): Inspired by The Lion King, this tale follows Prince Tristan Faasa’s plan to usurp his brother’s throne, entangled with Lady Sara Beatreaux.
- Wretched (2022): A twist on The Wizard of Oz, featuring Evelina Westerly, the mastermind behind her family’s drug empire, and her complex relationship with undercover agent Nicholas Woodsworth.
- Twisted (2023): A reimagining of Aladdin, where Yasmin Karam, daughter of a wealthy businessman, becomes entangled with Julian Faraci, a man with a dark past.
- Crossed (2023): Drawing from The Hunchback of Notre Dame, this story centres on Father Cade Frédéric, a holy man battling inner demons, and his forbidden attraction to a mysterious woman.
- Hexed (2024): A dark take on The Little Mermaid, featuring Venesa Andersen, a woman with a troubled past, and Enzo Marino, an underboss in a mafia syndicate.
Each book in the series is noted for its steamy romance and complex characters, offering a fresh perspective on familiar tales. Readers should be aware that these novels contain mature content and themes, including elements of consensual non-consent and predator-prey dynamics. For detailed content warnings, it’s advisable to consult the author’s official website.
Why You’ll Love It
Emily McIntire takes fairy tales and turns them into edgy, unputdownable romances that are as dark as they are deliciously spicy. The Never After series is perfect for readers who love morally ambiguous characters, emotional depth, and steamy scenes that deliver all the heat you’re craving.
If you’re looking for fairy tales rewritten with a dark and spicy edge, the Never After series is a must-read. With antiheroes you’ll hate to love, heroines who stand their ground, and enough tension to keep you hooked, this series hits all the right notes. Just be prepared—these stories aren’t for the faint of heart.
H.D. Carlton’s Cat and Mouse Duet
If you’re ready to dive into a romance series that’s equal parts dark, thrilling, and deeply erotic, H.D. Carlton’s Cat and Mouse Duet, otherwise known as Haunting Adeline and Hunting Adeline, are here to shatter expectations—and probably your comfort zones. These books are not for the faint of heart, but if you love morally grey characters, intense predator-prey dynamics, and spine-tingling suspense, they’ll keep you hooked from start to finish.
I’ll be honest I wasn’t expecting to enjoy these as much as I did, I read mostly to satisfy my curiosity and assumed, going in, I’d find them to be a bit much. Nobody was more surprised than me by how good I found them. And funny. Though I suspect the fact I find certain lines hilarious speaks more to my bizarre sense of humour than anything intended as such!
Haunting Adeline
The story begins with Adeline, a gothic romance author who moves into her grandmother’s eerie old mansion. Strange things start happening—objects moving, shadows watching—and then there’s Zade Meadows, a morally grey antihero who stalks Adeline with chilling devotion. Their connection is twisted, obsessive, and irresistible, pulling her into a world of danger and desire.
Zade’s obsessive love for Adeline leads to scenes dripping with tension and seduction. The predator-prey play is intense, and the steamy moments push boundaries, making it perfect for fans of dark romance.
Hunting Adeline
This sequel cranks up the intensity as Adeline is pulled deeper into Zade’s dangerous world. This time, she faces unimaginable threats, and her relationship with Zade transforms into an even darker, more consuming force. The stakes are higher, the darkness more profound, and the romance more electric.
The scenes in Hunting Adeline are even steamier, blending high-stakes suspense with forbidden passion. The themes explore raw, primal emotions and relationships that teeter on the edge of control.
Why These Books Are a Must-Read for Dark Romance Fans
Both Haunting Adeline and Hunting Adeline delve deep into themes of obsession, danger, and redemption. They’re packed with graphic content, explicit spice, and emotionally charged moments that will keep you turning pages late into the night. H.D. Carlton isn’t afraid to explore taboo topics, so these books come with heavy trigger warnings—make sure you’re in the mood for a wild, dark ride.
These novels are perfect for readers who enjoy morally ambiguous antiheroes, spine-chilling suspense, and romance that pushes boundaries. If you’re ready for a series that’s as thrilling as it is steamy, Haunting Adeline and Hunting Adeline are waiting to haunt your TBR list.
Hacker Series by Meredith Wild
If you’re a fan of contemporary romance with plenty of spice and a touch of suspense, Meredith Wild’s Hacker series is a must-read. This five-book series delivers on all fronts: sizzling chemistry, intense emotional connections, and a fast-paced plot that keeps you hooked. With a tech-savvy billionaire hero and a fiercely independent heroine, the Hacker series offers a modern, sexy twist on the romance genre.
The series follows Erica Hathaway, a self-made entrepreneur with big dreams, and Blake Landon, a hacker-turned-billionaire with a controlling streak. Their worlds collide when Blake takes an interest in Erica’s start-up—and her. What begins as a fiery attraction quickly becomes an all-consuming romance, filled with passion, jealousy, and secrets.
As Erica and Blake navigate their relationship, they’re also pulled into a web of cybercrime, betrayal, and danger, making this series as thrilling as it is romantic.
Books in the Series:
- Hardwired – Erica and Blake meet, and sparks fly as they clash over control, trust, and their undeniable chemistry.
- Hardpressed – Their relationship deepens, but past secrets and external threats test their bond.
- Hardline – Blake’s darker side emerges, and Erica must decide how far she’s willing to go for love.
- Hard Limit – With danger closing in, Erica and Blake’s loyalty to each other is pushed to the brink.
- Hard Love – The series finale ties up their story with even higher stakes and an explosive conclusion.
The Hacker series is loaded with explicit, high-heat scenes, from passionate encounters to moments brimming with tension. Blake’s dominant personality and Erica’s fierce independence create a dynamic that’s both fiery and deeply emotional. Add in the suspenseful plotlines, and this series keeps you turning pages for both the romance and the intrigue.
Why You’ll Love These Spicy Romance Novels
Erica’s world as a tech entrepreneur adds a fresh, empowering element to the story. Blake is the ultimate alpha hero, but Erica holds her own, making their dynamic addictive. Cybercrime, betrayal, and danger keep the stakes high and the story engaging.
Meredith Wild’s Hacker series is perfect for readers who love contemporary romance with strong-willed characters, steamy scenes, and a touch of suspense. If you’re ready to get Hardwired into a captivating romance, dive into this series—you won’t regret it.
Got it! Here’s a new section for the Wicked Darlings series that matches the tone and structure of your existing blog:
Wicked Darlings Series by Rebecca F. Kenney
If you’re craving a dark, spicy twist on classic fairy tales, Rebecca F. Kenney’s Wicked Darlings series is sure to captivate you. This romantasy collection reimagines beloved stories like The Nutcracker and Alice in Wonderland, blending lush world-building, bold romance, and daring themes to create unforgettable tales that are equal parts whimsical and wicked.
Each book stands alone, offering a unique journey through richly crafted Fae realms brimming with intrigue, sensuality, and danger. From enchanting sweets that grant magical abilities to seductive antiheroes and fearless heroines, the series delivers a delicious mix of fantasy and spice.
Books in the Series:
- A Court of Sugar and Spice: A darkly sensual Nutcracker retelling featuring two sisters, a cursed Nutcracker Prince, and the seductive Sugarplum Faerie. With forbidden desires and magical danger, it’s a tale of self-discovery and passion.
Read My Full Review… - A Court of Hearts and Hunger: A Wonderland reimagining where the enchanting yet deadly Unseelie Territory sets the stage for a battle of wits, magic, and forbidden love.
- A City of Emeralds and Envy: This Wizard of Oz twist takes readers into a dazzling, treacherous Fae city where secrets and seduction abound.
- A Prison of Ink and Ice: A Snow Queen retelling featuring a frosty kingdom, unexpected alliances, and romance as chilling as it is heated.
Why These Books Are Must-Reads for Lovers of Spicy Romance Novels
Kenney’s Wicked Darlings series doesn’t hold back on the spice. With steamy scenes and daring relationships woven into the narrative, these books explore primal dynamics, intense chemistry, and forbidden desires.
Beyond the spice, the series excels at combining imaginative world-building, morally grey antiheroes, and heroines who push boundaries. Each tale is a rich blend of fantasy, romance, and sensuality, perfect for readers who enjoy bold, edgy retellings of their favourite fairy tales.
Whether you’re drawn to the dark allure of the Sugarplum Faerie or the deadly intrigue of Unseelie politics, the Wicked Darlings series will sweep you into a world of magic, danger, and unforgettable romance.
The Spiciest Books to Heat Up Your TBR?
Whether you’re drawn to dark antiheroes, forbidden love, or fantastical realms brimming with magic and spice, these romance novels deliver on every level. From the raw intensity of predator-prey dynamics to the tantalising allure of gothic settings and whimsical retellings, there’s something here to ignite every reader’s passion.
If you’re ready to dive into a world of heart-racing stories and unforgettable characters, grab a copy (or five) from this list, curl up in your favourite reading spot, and prepare to be utterly consumed. Just don’t forget to have a fan nearby—you’re going to need it.
Happy reading, and may your TBR pile forever be spicy! 🌶️🔥
