This might be a hard ask – because I know my brain can be picky when it comes to which books I like! I love fantasy romance dynamics, but I don't love when books are too centered around physical intimacy and I am picky when it comes to quality of writing as well. If something reads too much like wattpad, I generally don't finish.
I am kind of new to the genre, so I don't have too many to go off of. But main takeaway are that I care about in order are:
1. Quality of writing!
2. Good plot & romance balance (I don't mind spice but I really can only stay interested if there is good tension + story to back it up!!!)
3. I like a strong/protective MMC love interest!
These are books I loved!!!!! (in no particular order)
Once Upon a Broken Heart series – absolute favorite. Written so well – characters written amazingly – felt like a movie in my head! Plot was great! Not heavy on spice, more around romance (which is what I prefer!! I'm here for the relationship plot and the tension!)
The Shepherd King series – I loved how well written these two books were – the plot was great as well!
Half a Soul – It's been a year and I'm still not over this book LOL – I loved both characters and the way their relationship developed
Red Queen series – Love, love the MMC and the twists and also loved how well written it was (although the further you get the pacing did become slow sadly)
ACOTAR – (this is kind of middle ground for me) I read the whole series and I liked the beginning books the most – but after a certain point it got too much for me. Something about the two MCs banging loudly in their war camp while people are screaming in pain around them really turned me away LOL.
A Rivalry of Hearts – Loved both main characters and the plot was so cute! Written very well too!
Books I didn't like and why:
The Cruel Prince – MMC felt very flat to me and no redeeming qualities at least within this first book? Honestly I found it hard to get invested even in Jude's character! I can't figure out why I couldn't get invested in this book – I think the characters are just missing like-ability for me!
The Serpent and the Wings of Night – Didn't think the world building was good, I just didn't like the main character (I can't remember what else because this was a while ago)
To Bleed a Crystal Bloom – He was her guardian??????? I can't and I also was confused the whole book. A lot of things are not explained.
And there are more that I don't like – I just didn't include the ones I couldn't finish more than a few chapters of. I know this is probably an annoying ask – but I am very interested in the fantasy romance genre and I want to find more books that suit me!!
by Competitive-Cheetah9