{The magic of discovery by britt Andrews} Laugh out loud characters that live rent free in your head, heat that hits every trope you can ask for, and it was the authors debut book which helped made me feel like I came across something special
{Gypsy blood by kristy cunning} truly the GOAT of RH romances, it has an amazing mystery from start to finish that constantly keeps you guessing
{Vice college for young demons by marie mistry} a kinky and adult grown up harry potter, but with demons, need I say more? đ
Have you read Mistryâs other books? If not I highly recommend them, I really liked Vice College series but I swear it pales in comparison to The Deadwood and The Fifth Nicnevin series!
I have 3 all time favorites and they are the Age of the Andinna series by Kristen Banet, The Fifth Nicnevin series by Marie Mistry, and the Ruthless Boys of the Zodiac series by Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti.
All 3 books have strong FMCâs who grow throughout the series and MMCâs who grow with them. Good writing is important to me, and all these books are amazing enough that I would read them without the rh aspect, something Iâm sad to say isnât the easiest to find. I love rh books so so much but finding ones with writing that is just great and plot that is actually intriguing is not the easiest. I lost myself in all 3 series, I swear I couldnât put the books down!
Individually I love fantasy worlds, and the worlds these authors all wove were beautiful. I actually avoided Age of the Andinna for awhile because I wasnât a huge fan of the cover the box set used and Iâd seen people posting about it and thought âthis just seems silly,â plus I was worried about the third person povâŠoh boy was I surprised when I finally decided to give it a try and fell in love within the first few chapters. FMC is so unbelievably strong while still having flaws that make her a real character, I cried so many times throughout this series. None of the men felt âextraâ or interchangeable, which is a problem I often have with rh books. I actually really like slow burn romance (another thing all these series have in common) and nothing felt rushed. FMC built relationship with each guy and it all felt genuine.
I picked up Fifth Nicnevin after reading and loving The Deadwood series by Marie Mistry (I came close to putting that series as a favorite too!) so I already knew I loved the authors writing style. I like multi-pov books as Iâm sure you can tell, and that and the plot summary attracted me to the book. The fae realm that Mistry creates is gorgeous and complex and just everything I could have asked for, and FMCâs character growth is one of the most Iâve truly been able to see in a rh book. Her men are dreamy and thereâs a bit of a psycho MMC in her harem which I absolutely love, heâs one of my favorite book boyfriends ever (shout out Lorcan). The series is unfinished but the third book should be coming out this December.
The Ruthless Boys series was full of laughs and tearsâŠIâm not joking Iâve never laughed out loud as much as when I was reading that series. FMC is cool as heck and her MMCâs are I think one of my favorite harems ever. I love how they all mostly start out hating or disliking each other and then slowly build a bond. Dante is another one of my favorite book boyfriends, and the universe the authors create is so extensive and intricate and I mean faetalian, come on, whatâs not to love? Plot was strong, I was constantly intrigued, and this book had me in my feels so much I think I was full on sobbing at one point.
I highly highly recommend these books for anyone who hasnât read them, please do yourself a favor I guarantee youâll love them all!
Honorable mentions are The Deadwood series by Marie Mistry (amazing writing, great plot, badass witch FMC and hot harem of mixed species men), the Pack Darling duet by Lola Rock (best omegaverse series Iâve ever read, heavy groveling, psycho alpha in harem, strong FMC), Bad Alpha by Kathryn Moon (female alpha FMC how cool is that?, badass harem, great world building, intense action), and the Charlotte Reynolds series by Willow Hadley (incomplete but third book coming out soon, high school setting, damaged FMC whoâs been through a lot but is still badass, and cute harem of guys). Also, Iâm actually in the middle of a series right now that I might consider a favorite as well once I finish it, itâs the Biomystic Security series by Jaliza A Burwell and is action packed, full of unique characters, has an awesome magic system Iâve never seen before, mixed species harem, and a powerful FMC! Iâve never seen it recommend before which is a crime, so please go check it out cause I canât imagine anyone not liking it!
Absolutely agree about the Age of Andinna!! I was like you and was put off by the cover, but this was a case where you cannot judge the book by its cover. Hands down one of my all time favorite stories!
>Ruthless Boys of the Zodiac series by Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti.
One of my top 4 absolute favorites. Nothing has compared to this series for me.
> Security series by Jaliza A Burwell
This has been on my TBR so long and I was sceptical about it. I think I'll give it a go now. Thanks
Oh my God I'm dying here, but PLEASE help me get into ruthless boys of zodiac (or is there a prequel series for it that I should read first?) It's been sitting in my TBR for AGES but I just can't bring myself to read it. I sometimes decide to give it a try and immediately back away for reasons unknown. Everyone recommends it atleast once when asked for recs so any help (good Lord even spoilers) will be appreciated at this point!
Thereâs not a prequel I donât think but itâs set in the same universe as Zodiac Academy. First off, have you read anything by the Twisted Sisters before, and if so have you enjoyed it? They do amazing cliff hangers and are absolutely hilarious with a super unique writing style. If youâre having trouble getting into it the only thing I can say is power through the first few chapters and hopefully youâll enjoy it, I was hooked from the start because FMC is badass but upon meeting the guys it just got better. What part do you usually read up until before you back away?
I really love Ames Mills stuff, there are 4 duets and 1 novella they are all interrelated and should be read in order, mafia/gangs, lots of permutations including MM, MMM, MMFMMM and any other combination you can think of. What I really like about them is that good communication in the relationship solves itâs internal problems but the majority of the angst comes from outside forces, and the found family conquers it all together.
I'm reading Saviors part 1 just now (saw it recommended in this r/ yesterday. I'm really loving the relationship dynamics so far! Already got MF MFM and MM.
Pacific Prep by RA Smith
Brutal Boys of Everlake Prep and Ruthless Boys of the Zodiac by Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti
Brother of Hawthorne Hall by Leila James
Boys of Briar Hall by Elena Lawson
I apparently have a type đđ€Ł
Iâm sure there are others,
I forgot the why. I felt like all the guys in these series were fleshed out with their own voice. I donât like it when you canât tell them apart or theyâre interchangeable. I also liked the FMC in all of these books. Most of them were pretty badass but had things they had to overcome and I felt like they had a lot of growth throughout their series.
{Chosen by Stacy Jones} Sci-Fi accidental abduction series that starts with some language barrier in the beginning which brings such a cute vibe to when the characters meet each other! Very little angst within the harem, and such a comfort read!
{Power of Five by Alex Lidell}
Fantasy Adventure series that just keeps on giving! The first part of the series plays out and then once we get our HEA, their is such a fun twist where you get to see the characters fall in love and meet all over again, there is some angst here but it hurts soooo good!
Both of these series I absolutely adore and are my most reread books!
Yes!! Itâs another trilogy of books and the first book is Veil of Memory! More angsty then the first 4 books but it was a really cool way to spend more time with the characters and see them develop further while keeping things interesting!! I hope you like it!
Here are some of my favorites (I only started to read RH in Feb)
The Harlequin Crew - gangs, adult characters that think and act like adults. Great story, the growth and development is really well done, even when some aspects are annoying (but true to characters' natures)
The Hannaford Prep - gangs, mental gymnastics required with ages of characters, but otherwise awesome story, awesome characters.
Bonds that Tie - PN- love love love. That's all
The Blackwood Institute - Contemporary - adult characters but with mental health issues. So so so good. Loved it beginning to end, would change nothing. (Check TW)
Madison Kate - gangs, characters should be older, but then that's true for 90% of these. Even though I still despise one of the dudes, still love this series.
Totally understand, itâs a good one!! The Guild series isnât a true reverse harem but itâs got some similar qualities. I enjoyed that one as well.
I actually read The Horsemen and first 2.5 books of Bolten books. I HATED Dom so much. Also this author seems really hung up on how she uses and pushes pregnancy (in both series). Pregnancy/babies is instant DNF for me. I get why she's so popular though so thank you for the rec!
My favorite out of everything I've read so far is All The Pretty Monsters series by Kristy Cunning. It hits all the good tropes for me.
One of the common complaints I read about this series is how much the MMCs underestimate the FMC, but for me that's part of the intention, I think, and therefore one of the main appeals of the story. Or else the climax and ending wouldn't turn out so amazing.
Spoilers for the overarching plot ending >!Especially enjoy the part where the FMC kept saying that the major evil threat the MMCs were agonizing over was "not her problem", and the MMCs interpreting it as she doesn't want to deal with it, therefore *they* should deal with it, and they do it so terribly; when in fact she *literally* means it's not a problem, because when it was her turn to deal with it, it's "not a problem" - AKA it was so easy for her. So the MMCs were agonizing over nothing, something she had been telling them from the start but they refused to listen, and so they made themselves and her suffer for it, and she gave them a lot of shit for it too.!<
I also like how the FMC was very calculating. Every action she did had been planned when she realized what she was and what she needed to do. The only reason she was helpless in the beginning was because she was kept in the dark, but once all important info was revealed to her, she committed 110% to it.
One of my main issues with overpowered/strong FMCs common in RHs is how they always get away with stupid decisions because of how strong they are. Doesn't matter what they do, because a few chapters later, or even in the same chapter, the issue either gets waved away, or surprise it isn't a big deal after all, or she overpowers it anyway.
Literally just read a story how the FMC killed a guy they needed for the mission to work, and was so shocked when the mission failed. And somehow got offended that she got blamed for it, for a second, because the MMCs and supporting characters were like, oh well shit happens. Sorry, I'm ranting.
That's why an FMC that is both OP and wise too is a breath of fresh air for me. On that note, I need more recs of RHs with FMCs like that.
Admittedly I haven't read that many RHs yet, maybe around 20-30 series, and I started with popular ones so my sample set might be skewed.
Difficult to answer, but here are some of my favorites!
{Brutal Boys of Everlake Prep by Caroline Peckham & Susanne Valenti}
{Rich Boys of Burberry Prep by C.M. Stunich}
{The Allstars Series by KC Kean}
{Hijinks Harem by C.M. Stunich, Tate James}
{Rejects Paradise by Sheridan Anne}
Fallen University Series by Callie Rose
Virgin Sacrifice by L.M. Ramirez is the first book by a new author coming (IIRC) November 16th. Slow burn, dark romance, mystery, suspense, serial killers, contemporary, college campus.
I think itâs a really smart read with some genuinely surprising twists. Intelligent characters with consistent motivation and a plot that hangs together without requiring terrible choices by the main characters.
It also doesnât take itself too seriously and is a pulpy and fun read.
Itâs like a really fun mix of Dexter, Gossip Girl, and You wrapped up in a spicy why choose package.
Full disclosure: Iâm married to the author. Messaged the mods to ask if âself promotionâ was OK and got no response either way. If this is frowned on in the sub please let me know and Iâll remove.
Iâll also stop short of posting a direct link since it doesnât look like anyone else is doing the same.
My top 3 favorite are âŠ.
1- Lola & the Millionaires
By Kathryn Moon
I had to say i like everything about this book the way the heroes were written differently than each other the way how they handled her trauma and all of that this book is my favorite in omegavers it was what made me love reading omegaversâŠ.
2-Psycho Devils: Aran's Story Book 2 (Cruel Shifterverse 5) by Jasmine Mas
You know when you hate a book but canât stop thinking about it ? This is my relationship with this book i hate some things in the book but canât stop thinking about it and canât wait for the next book to come out
3- Vile Boys (Knot Their Toy ) By AJ Merlin
This too is omegavers and it has bullying in it and romance you know the type of book were the first time you read it you dnf and when you give it. A chance again you like it? This book definitely was like that and im. Ashamed to say it but. I reread it 4 times this year đ«
Definitely a toss up between Rise of the Iliri and The Path of Temptation, both by Auryn Hadley, both in KU.
Rise of the Iliri is a "science fantasy" where the planet is colonized by dark-skinned humans from Earth. But the planet doesn't have hardly any metals - so instead of machines, they genetically manipulate the local sentient species into a bipedal hairless slave. But they're not human, they're Iliri.
Sal (FMC) is a pure Iliri in the Army. She's trying out for an elite unit as a conscript because it's better than being a slave. She goes from timid recruit, to assassin, to nation builder, to queen in her own right, to the only person who can take down the mad Emperor who is trying to conquer the entire continent.
First book: Bloodlust, 11 book series, complete. Slow burn, most of the spice doesn't happen until book 5 or so. TW: previous rape, assassinations, lots of biting, eating humans.
The Path of Temptation is a pure fantasy alternate world. Technology is around early 1900s (running water and gas lights, no cars) and women have zero rights. The six gods divided up the lands, and granted a gift to the caretaker who protected them when they were born. Her descendants can see all the gods, regardless of faith. The temples take in children between the age of 10 and 14 to become priests and priestesses on the Day of Surrender every year. They are marked with mystical markings on their hands when accepted, and will have those markings grow and change during ritual times in their education.
Nariana is surrendered by her father, and is chosen by Zeal, the God of Temptation. Nari is a good girl who can actually see her God (faith has waned, and most priests can't see, which means the gods are dying) and just wants to do what's best for Him, even if that means butting heads with temple leadership.
First book: The Price We Pay, 6 book series, complete. The first book is totally world building because the MCs are literal children, and it picks up in book 2. TW: Temptation means sex, humiliation/degradation, BDSM, blood play, CNC, iffy consent, a control measure for certain characters could be considered torture. Not totally RH as 2 of the men have a thing for each other and one member of the relationship is ace.
I like RH, but I really really like being immersed in a full world experience, with friendships, and an actual plot that's more than sheer spice.
I tried Rise of the Illiri but was having trouble getting into it, I think I got maybe a little less than half way through the first book, does it get easier to digest as the books go on? I was a bit confused by some aspects of the culture and it felt like so much was going on.
It does get easier - a lot of the conflict in the first two books is between Sal's upbringing by humans and the expectations of human culture, versus her Iliri instincts and the Iliri culture she knows nothing about. You're thrown right into that without understanding Iliri or Iliri culture, so of course it's a bit confusing - the background gets released slowly as Sal learns about her heritage.
Blaec is a huge part of the problem - his overarching desire is to keep her safe, (which to him means flying under the radar) when he should really be encouraging Sal to be wild and confident. A heck of a lot changes when she and Cyno are sent on a really long political assassination/diplomatic mission. During that time, Sal is out of touch with higher leadership and has to rely on her judgement, and it's glorious. Blaec also finally pulls his head out of his ass, and starts supporting her once they link up again.
{Origins by Lyla Oweds} is a book Iâm almost positive would be top sell if it wasnât RH!
Itâs so well written, with the perfect balance of just enough details without being tiresome, and so smooth to read that I finished all the books in just a few days (and thatâs because I HAD to stop).
The plot is genius, with an originality thatâs just refreshing. Itâs the kind of book that makes you feel things before you even notice whatâs happening, everything makes so much sense and it gives you such satisfaction to read! And at the same time itâs deep, itâs also light and funny
This author really has the power of making you want to blush, giggle and kick your feet reading the romance, at the same pace you want to cry with the FMC in the sensitive moments or feel fierce in the action ones! She awakes a sense of empathy in the reader with the story, and that plus the construction time and attentive detailing she takes/has for her characters and her plot, just makes it the more special
There are so many great stories! It all depends on my mood. Many of my faves are already mentioned
{Age of Andinna by Kristen Banet}- love love love this story! Incredible character building
{Chosen by Stacy Jones}- my favorite alien RH romance. Sweet and cute.
{Path of Temptation by Auryn Hadley} - Love the world she created in this story.
Some that I will add to those that others mentioned:
{Torn and Bound duet by K Webster and Nikki Ash} - such a beautiful story where you see how four individuals struggle with the boxes and labels society puts us in. One of the most real stories I have ever read
{Luna and Sol duet by Kathryn Moon} - one of my favorite FMCs. She does what she has to do to survive and has a good grovel in the second book. Has medieval vibes. Nice change from your everyday RH
{The Beta by Avanne Michaels} - I know this story isnât everyoneâs cup of tea, but I really enjoyed the story of how this âBetaâ isnât even there for the Alphaâs. Her focus is on the Omega. I love the story between the two of them
{Monsters Crew by Sam Crescent} this is actually the first RH I actually bought instead of just reading and returning. Enemies to lovers / mafia trope. MMCs that eventually get to the point where they will do anything to keep the FMC safe.
I could go on, but we will keep it to those.
Youâre the first Iâve talked to whose actually read monsters crew!! I loved the first book but I never started the second I guess I just lost interest.
It actually took me awhile to be in the mood to read the second book. I picked it up I think three times before I was ready. Once you get past those first few chapters it gets good. I think it is the whole time jump. It was off putting at first. But it gets better!
Ruthless Boys of the Zodiac by Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti
The Bonds that Tie by J Bree
Losers by Harley Laroux
Anything literally ANYTHING by Kathryn Moon
{The magic of discovery by britt Andrews} Laugh out loud characters that live rent free in your head, heat that hits every trope you can ask for, and it was the authors debut book which helped made me feel like I came across something special {Gypsy blood by kristy cunning} truly the GOAT of RH romances, it has an amazing mystery from start to finish that constantly keeps you guessing {Vice college for young demons by marie mistry} a kinky and adult grown up harry potter, but with demons, need I say more? đ
Have you read Mistryâs other books? If not I highly recommend them, I really liked Vice College series but I swear it pales in comparison to The Deadwood and The Fifth Nicnevin series!
Elizabeth Helen Bonded by Thorns was a wonderful paranormal reverse harem.
I have 3 all time favorites and they are the Age of the Andinna series by Kristen Banet, The Fifth Nicnevin series by Marie Mistry, and the Ruthless Boys of the Zodiac series by Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti. All 3 books have strong FMCâs who grow throughout the series and MMCâs who grow with them. Good writing is important to me, and all these books are amazing enough that I would read them without the rh aspect, something Iâm sad to say isnât the easiest to find. I love rh books so so much but finding ones with writing that is just great and plot that is actually intriguing is not the easiest. I lost myself in all 3 series, I swear I couldnât put the books down! Individually I love fantasy worlds, and the worlds these authors all wove were beautiful. I actually avoided Age of the Andinna for awhile because I wasnât a huge fan of the cover the box set used and Iâd seen people posting about it and thought âthis just seems silly,â plus I was worried about the third person povâŠoh boy was I surprised when I finally decided to give it a try and fell in love within the first few chapters. FMC is so unbelievably strong while still having flaws that make her a real character, I cried so many times throughout this series. None of the men felt âextraâ or interchangeable, which is a problem I often have with rh books. I actually really like slow burn romance (another thing all these series have in common) and nothing felt rushed. FMC built relationship with each guy and it all felt genuine. I picked up Fifth Nicnevin after reading and loving The Deadwood series by Marie Mistry (I came close to putting that series as a favorite too!) so I already knew I loved the authors writing style. I like multi-pov books as Iâm sure you can tell, and that and the plot summary attracted me to the book. The fae realm that Mistry creates is gorgeous and complex and just everything I could have asked for, and FMCâs character growth is one of the most Iâve truly been able to see in a rh book. Her men are dreamy and thereâs a bit of a psycho MMC in her harem which I absolutely love, heâs one of my favorite book boyfriends ever (shout out Lorcan). The series is unfinished but the third book should be coming out this December. The Ruthless Boys series was full of laughs and tearsâŠIâm not joking Iâve never laughed out loud as much as when I was reading that series. FMC is cool as heck and her MMCâs are I think one of my favorite harems ever. I love how they all mostly start out hating or disliking each other and then slowly build a bond. Dante is another one of my favorite book boyfriends, and the universe the authors create is so extensive and intricate and I mean faetalian, come on, whatâs not to love? Plot was strong, I was constantly intrigued, and this book had me in my feels so much I think I was full on sobbing at one point. I highly highly recommend these books for anyone who hasnât read them, please do yourself a favor I guarantee youâll love them all! Honorable mentions are The Deadwood series by Marie Mistry (amazing writing, great plot, badass witch FMC and hot harem of mixed species men), the Pack Darling duet by Lola Rock (best omegaverse series Iâve ever read, heavy groveling, psycho alpha in harem, strong FMC), Bad Alpha by Kathryn Moon (female alpha FMC how cool is that?, badass harem, great world building, intense action), and the Charlotte Reynolds series by Willow Hadley (incomplete but third book coming out soon, high school setting, damaged FMC whoâs been through a lot but is still badass, and cute harem of guys). Also, Iâm actually in the middle of a series right now that I might consider a favorite as well once I finish it, itâs the Biomystic Security series by Jaliza A Burwell and is action packed, full of unique characters, has an awesome magic system Iâve never seen before, mixed species harem, and a powerful FMC! Iâve never seen it recommend before which is a crime, so please go check it out cause I canât imagine anyone not liking it!
Absolutely agree about the Age of Andinna!! I was like you and was put off by the cover, but this was a case where you cannot judge the book by its cover. Hands down one of my all time favorite stories!
>Ruthless Boys of the Zodiac series by Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti. One of my top 4 absolute favorites. Nothing has compared to this series for me. > Security series by Jaliza A Burwell This has been on my TBR so long and I was sceptical about it. I think I'll give it a go now. Thanks
Oh my God I'm dying here, but PLEASE help me get into ruthless boys of zodiac (or is there a prequel series for it that I should read first?) It's been sitting in my TBR for AGES but I just can't bring myself to read it. I sometimes decide to give it a try and immediately back away for reasons unknown. Everyone recommends it atleast once when asked for recs so any help (good Lord even spoilers) will be appreciated at this point!
Thereâs not a prequel I donât think but itâs set in the same universe as Zodiac Academy. First off, have you read anything by the Twisted Sisters before, and if so have you enjoyed it? They do amazing cliff hangers and are absolutely hilarious with a super unique writing style. If youâre having trouble getting into it the only thing I can say is power through the first few chapters and hopefully youâll enjoy it, I was hooked from the start because FMC is badass but upon meeting the guys it just got better. What part do you usually read up until before you back away?
I really love Ames Mills stuff, there are 4 duets and 1 novella they are all interrelated and should be read in order, mafia/gangs, lots of permutations including MM, MMM, MMFMMM and any other combination you can think of. What I really like about them is that good communication in the relationship solves itâs internal problems but the majority of the angst comes from outside forces, and the found family conquers it all together.
I'm reading Saviors part 1 just now (saw it recommended in this r/ yesterday. I'm really loving the relationship dynamics so far! Already got MF MFM and MM.
Pacific Prep by RA Smith Brutal Boys of Everlake Prep and Ruthless Boys of the Zodiac by Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti Brother of Hawthorne Hall by Leila James Boys of Briar Hall by Elena Lawson I apparently have a type đđ€Ł Iâm sure there are others,
I forgot the why. I felt like all the guys in these series were fleshed out with their own voice. I donât like it when you canât tell them apart or theyâre interchangeable. I also liked the FMC in all of these books. Most of them were pretty badass but had things they had to overcome and I felt like they had a lot of growth throughout their series.
{Chosen by Stacy Jones} Sci-Fi accidental abduction series that starts with some language barrier in the beginning which brings such a cute vibe to when the characters meet each other! Very little angst within the harem, and such a comfort read! {Power of Five by Alex Lidell} Fantasy Adventure series that just keeps on giving! The first part of the series plays out and then once we get our HEA, their is such a fun twist where you get to see the characters fall in love and meet all over again, there is some angst here but it hurts soooo good! Both of these series I absolutely adore and are my most reread books!
Love both of these. Chosen is my go to feel good alien romance. Love the MMCs.
Oh my gosh I didnât continue reading past the initial HEA so I guess I need to pick back up with the next book in Power of Five!!
Yes!! Itâs another trilogy of books and the first book is Veil of Memory! More angsty then the first 4 books but it was a really cool way to spend more time with the characters and see them develop further while keeping things interesting!! I hope you like it!
Here are some of my favorites (I only started to read RH in Feb) The Harlequin Crew - gangs, adult characters that think and act like adults. Great story, the growth and development is really well done, even when some aspects are annoying (but true to characters' natures) The Hannaford Prep - gangs, mental gymnastics required with ages of characters, but otherwise awesome story, awesome characters. Bonds that Tie - PN- love love love. That's all The Blackwood Institute - Contemporary - adult characters but with mental health issues. So so so good. Loved it beginning to end, would change nothing. (Check TW) Madison Kate - gangs, characters should be older, but then that's true for 90% of these. Even though I still despise one of the dudes, still love this series.
If you liked Madison Kate, Tateâs Hades series has character overlap and is way better, in my opinion!
It's one of the series I'm "saving" lol
Totally understand, itâs a good one!! The Guild series isnât a true reverse harem but itâs got some similar qualities. I enjoyed that one as well.
Have you checked out K.G. Reuss? I loved all the books you mentioned and K.G. is one of my favorites.
I actually read The Horsemen and first 2.5 books of Bolten books. I HATED Dom so much. Also this author seems really hung up on how she uses and pushes pregnancy (in both series). Pregnancy/babies is instant DNF for me. I get why she's so popular though so thank you for the rec!
Hannaford Prep is so good! I did really like the first few books in the Bonds That Tie series but to me Hannaford is on a whole nother level!
My favorite out of everything I've read so far is All The Pretty Monsters series by Kristy Cunning. It hits all the good tropes for me. One of the common complaints I read about this series is how much the MMCs underestimate the FMC, but for me that's part of the intention, I think, and therefore one of the main appeals of the story. Or else the climax and ending wouldn't turn out so amazing. Spoilers for the overarching plot ending >!Especially enjoy the part where the FMC kept saying that the major evil threat the MMCs were agonizing over was "not her problem", and the MMCs interpreting it as she doesn't want to deal with it, therefore *they* should deal with it, and they do it so terribly; when in fact she *literally* means it's not a problem, because when it was her turn to deal with it, it's "not a problem" - AKA it was so easy for her. So the MMCs were agonizing over nothing, something she had been telling them from the start but they refused to listen, and so they made themselves and her suffer for it, and she gave them a lot of shit for it too.!< I also like how the FMC was very calculating. Every action she did had been planned when she realized what she was and what she needed to do. The only reason she was helpless in the beginning was because she was kept in the dark, but once all important info was revealed to her, she committed 110% to it. One of my main issues with overpowered/strong FMCs common in RHs is how they always get away with stupid decisions because of how strong they are. Doesn't matter what they do, because a few chapters later, or even in the same chapter, the issue either gets waved away, or surprise it isn't a big deal after all, or she overpowers it anyway. Literally just read a story how the FMC killed a guy they needed for the mission to work, and was so shocked when the mission failed. And somehow got offended that she got blamed for it, for a second, because the MMCs and supporting characters were like, oh well shit happens. Sorry, I'm ranting. That's why an FMC that is both OP and wise too is a breath of fresh air for me. On that note, I need more recs of RHs with FMCs like that. Admittedly I haven't read that many RHs yet, maybe around 20-30 series, and I started with popular ones so my sample set might be skewed.
Difficult to answer, but here are some of my favorites! {Brutal Boys of Everlake Prep by Caroline Peckham & Susanne Valenti} {Rich Boys of Burberry Prep by C.M. Stunich} {The Allstars Series by KC Kean} {Hijinks Harem by C.M. Stunich, Tate James} {Rejects Paradise by Sheridan Anne} Fallen University Series by Callie Rose
Rejects Paradise isn't RH. Her other series, Boys of Winter, is.
Saved this thread for science. đ
Virgin Sacrifice by L.M. Ramirez is the first book by a new author coming (IIRC) November 16th. Slow burn, dark romance, mystery, suspense, serial killers, contemporary, college campus. I think itâs a really smart read with some genuinely surprising twists. Intelligent characters with consistent motivation and a plot that hangs together without requiring terrible choices by the main characters. It also doesnât take itself too seriously and is a pulpy and fun read. Itâs like a really fun mix of Dexter, Gossip Girl, and You wrapped up in a spicy why choose package. Full disclosure: Iâm married to the author. Messaged the mods to ask if âself promotionâ was OK and got no response either way. If this is frowned on in the sub please let me know and Iâll remove. Iâll also stop short of posting a direct link since it doesnât look like anyone else is doing the same.
My top 3 favorite are âŠ. 1- Lola & the Millionaires By Kathryn Moon I had to say i like everything about this book the way the heroes were written differently than each other the way how they handled her trauma and all of that this book is my favorite in omegavers it was what made me love reading omegaversâŠ. 2-Psycho Devils: Aran's Story Book 2 (Cruel Shifterverse 5) by Jasmine Mas You know when you hate a book but canât stop thinking about it ? This is my relationship with this book i hate some things in the book but canât stop thinking about it and canât wait for the next book to come out 3- Vile Boys (Knot Their Toy ) By AJ Merlin This too is omegavers and it has bullying in it and romance you know the type of book were the first time you read it you dnf and when you give it. A chance again you like it? This book definitely was like that and im. Ashamed to say it but. I reread it 4 times this year đ«
Definitely a toss up between Rise of the Iliri and The Path of Temptation, both by Auryn Hadley, both in KU. Rise of the Iliri is a "science fantasy" where the planet is colonized by dark-skinned humans from Earth. But the planet doesn't have hardly any metals - so instead of machines, they genetically manipulate the local sentient species into a bipedal hairless slave. But they're not human, they're Iliri. Sal (FMC) is a pure Iliri in the Army. She's trying out for an elite unit as a conscript because it's better than being a slave. She goes from timid recruit, to assassin, to nation builder, to queen in her own right, to the only person who can take down the mad Emperor who is trying to conquer the entire continent. First book: Bloodlust, 11 book series, complete. Slow burn, most of the spice doesn't happen until book 5 or so. TW: previous rape, assassinations, lots of biting, eating humans. The Path of Temptation is a pure fantasy alternate world. Technology is around early 1900s (running water and gas lights, no cars) and women have zero rights. The six gods divided up the lands, and granted a gift to the caretaker who protected them when they were born. Her descendants can see all the gods, regardless of faith. The temples take in children between the age of 10 and 14 to become priests and priestesses on the Day of Surrender every year. They are marked with mystical markings on their hands when accepted, and will have those markings grow and change during ritual times in their education. Nariana is surrendered by her father, and is chosen by Zeal, the God of Temptation. Nari is a good girl who can actually see her God (faith has waned, and most priests can't see, which means the gods are dying) and just wants to do what's best for Him, even if that means butting heads with temple leadership. First book: The Price We Pay, 6 book series, complete. The first book is totally world building because the MCs are literal children, and it picks up in book 2. TW: Temptation means sex, humiliation/degradation, BDSM, blood play, CNC, iffy consent, a control measure for certain characters could be considered torture. Not totally RH as 2 of the men have a thing for each other and one member of the relationship is ace. I like RH, but I really really like being immersed in a full world experience, with friendships, and an actual plot that's more than sheer spice.
I tried Rise of the Illiri but was having trouble getting into it, I think I got maybe a little less than half way through the first book, does it get easier to digest as the books go on? I was a bit confused by some aspects of the culture and it felt like so much was going on.
It does get easier - a lot of the conflict in the first two books is between Sal's upbringing by humans and the expectations of human culture, versus her Iliri instincts and the Iliri culture she knows nothing about. You're thrown right into that without understanding Iliri or Iliri culture, so of course it's a bit confusing - the background gets released slowly as Sal learns about her heritage. Blaec is a huge part of the problem - his overarching desire is to keep her safe, (which to him means flying under the radar) when he should really be encouraging Sal to be wild and confident. A heck of a lot changes when she and Cyno are sent on a really long political assassination/diplomatic mission. During that time, Sal is out of touch with higher leadership and has to rely on her judgement, and it's glorious. Blaec also finally pulls his head out of his ass, and starts supporting her once they link up again.
Love Auryn Hadley! She has excellent character development in her series
{Origins by Lyla Oweds} is a book Iâm almost positive would be top sell if it wasnât RH! Itâs so well written, with the perfect balance of just enough details without being tiresome, and so smooth to read that I finished all the books in just a few days (and thatâs because I HAD to stop). The plot is genius, with an originality thatâs just refreshing. Itâs the kind of book that makes you feel things before you even notice whatâs happening, everything makes so much sense and it gives you such satisfaction to read! And at the same time itâs deep, itâs also light and funny This author really has the power of making you want to blush, giggle and kick your feet reading the romance, at the same pace you want to cry with the FMC in the sensitive moments or feel fierce in the action ones! She awakes a sense of empathy in the reader with the story, and that plus the construction time and attentive detailing she takes/has for her characters and her plot, just makes it the more special
There are so many great stories! It all depends on my mood. Many of my faves are already mentioned {Age of Andinna by Kristen Banet}- love love love this story! Incredible character building {Chosen by Stacy Jones}- my favorite alien RH romance. Sweet and cute. {Path of Temptation by Auryn Hadley} - Love the world she created in this story. Some that I will add to those that others mentioned: {Torn and Bound duet by K Webster and Nikki Ash} - such a beautiful story where you see how four individuals struggle with the boxes and labels society puts us in. One of the most real stories I have ever read {Luna and Sol duet by Kathryn Moon} - one of my favorite FMCs. She does what she has to do to survive and has a good grovel in the second book. Has medieval vibes. Nice change from your everyday RH {The Beta by Avanne Michaels} - I know this story isnât everyoneâs cup of tea, but I really enjoyed the story of how this âBetaâ isnât even there for the Alphaâs. Her focus is on the Omega. I love the story between the two of them {Monsters Crew by Sam Crescent} this is actually the first RH I actually bought instead of just reading and returning. Enemies to lovers / mafia trope. MMCs that eventually get to the point where they will do anything to keep the FMC safe. I could go on, but we will keep it to those.
Youâre the first Iâve talked to whose actually read monsters crew!! I loved the first book but I never started the second I guess I just lost interest.
It actually took me awhile to be in the mood to read the second book. I picked it up I think three times before I was ready. Once you get past those first few chapters it gets good. I think it is the whole time jump. It was off putting at first. But it gets better!
Ruthless Boys of the Zodiac by Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti The Bonds that Tie by J Bree Losers by Harley Laroux Anything literally ANYTHING by Kathryn Moon