Why Dark Fantasy Romance Is Taking Over Reading Lists in 2025
- emilesodyteauthor
- Sep 11
- 4 min read
Updated: Sep 12
You’ve probably noticed that there’s a trend taking over among readers community. You may have noticed or you may have not, but I am here to tell you all about it.
So what's the trend?
A trend of dark fantasy romance genre.
It feels like every other book out there has some blend of dark vibes, dark atmosphere, even dark magic and definitely mystery with morally grey characters we can’t help but root for.
So, what’s the deal with this genre that has us all hooked?
The Draw of Morally Grey Characters
First of all, I’ll say most of us, dark romance readers, love the morally grey MMC vibe in our book characters, because they are not just bad or good sometimes, they are real people with real flaws and struggles.
I love reading about characters who make mistakes, face tough choices, and wrestle with their own inner demons.
It feels like knowing, right?
When characters are going through their own messes, it kind of makes you think about your own life. We all have those moments where we’re not sure we’re doing the right thing, and seeing characters grapple with that makes their story feel more authentic. It’s like looking at a mirror with all its cracks and imperfections.
Those are real, raw, and totally relatable.
The Forbidden Love
Honestly, there’s something about romance that is off-limits that makes us feel really, really excited and emotional.
Dark fantasy romance is packed with stories, where love defies the odds, whether it’s family drama, societal rules, or even magical barriers.
The tension is just so high!
I think that’s why the genre got so popular, because it resonates so much with us. Who doesn’t love a bit of drama, a bit of tension and a bit of spice?
Everything is just there for us to grab.
The Excitement of Danger
Dark fantasy worlds are often filled with powers and elemental magic that is as dangerous as it is beautiful. This kind of magic can create chaos within a story, and that adds a whole new level of excitement to the romance.
Dangerous magic is like a metaphor for love itself. Sometimes it lifts you up, and sometimes it can bring you down. This duality keeps readers on their toes, and it makes the characters' story even more interesting.
You never really know what’s going to happen next, which is kind of fun part of it all!
What’s Hot Right Now
So, what are some titles within the dark fantasy romance this year on top of our TBR’s?
Here are a couple that I’m super excited to read! Remember to subscribe to my newsletter and don’t miss my review on these amazing finds.
“The Knight and the Moth” by Rachel Gillig
Came out on the 20th of May, 2025.
This one follows a Diviner girl and a knight as they team up against dark forces in a misty kingdom. Gothic vibes, slow-burn tension.
Oh yes, please, going straight on top of the to-be-read book list. Read more about it here.
“Rose in Chains” by Julie Soto
Released on 8th July, 2025.
This story is about Princess Briony, who gets stripped of her power and sold into slavery. Her dynamic with Toven Hearst, a known jerk, promises some serious enemies-to-lovers drama that I can’t wait to get my eyes on.
Read more about it here.
These two books totally embody what makes dark fantasy romance so irresistible. It has morally complex characters, intense love stories, and, of course, a sprinkle of magic that makes our lives a bit less miserable.
Why We’re Loving This Genre
So, what is it that makes us want more dark fantasy romance books?
A few things come to my mind now that I’ve written one on my own.
Escapism:
Let’s face it, we all need a place to escape somewhere every now and then. Dark fantasy lets us jump into these magical worlds where anything is possible, and it’s a great way to forget about the stress, the kids and bills we need to pay in the real world.
Complex Relationships:
We love stories that explore relationships on a deeper level. Dark fantasy romance often covers such themes. Themes like trust, betrayal, and redemption, making us reflect on our own experiences.
Strong Female Leads:
Many dark fantasy romances include fierce female protagonists who challenge the norm. These characters inspire us to embrace our own strength and fight for what we want.
My Own Journey writing “Moonlit Awakening”
As I think about these trends, I can’t help but feel excited about my own book that I published on the 31st of May.
It follows Freya, a young woman who discovered her magical powers in a world where humans are oppressed and werewolves take the upper hand. She gets tangled up with a dangerous and very possessive figure whose dark past could throw everything into chaos. Read more about it here:
Dark fantasy romance is, so to say, thriving in 2025 and drawing new readers to the community of this genre, where there's morally complex characters, electric romance, and the allure of magic.
I can’t wait to see how this genre evolves and what new stories come our way.
If you’re a fan or just dropped yourself into this world of readers, now is the perfect time to take the next read within dark fantasy romance that is out there.
Remember to also support small independent authors, those are hidden gems that sometimes are forgotten or overseen by big publishing houses.
I would highly recommend my recent indie reads. Check this out.
Grab a cozy blanket, find your favorite reading spot, and get ready to lose yourself in the enchanting and sometimes dangerous worlds of dark fantasy romance.
Trust me, you’re in for a wild ride!
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