Hello. I'm looking for books with well-written consensual sex. Many novels that are highly praised for their sex scenes also include SA, which I don't want to read. Please share some of the best sex scenes you've read! M/F or heterosexual couples are highly preferred, if you can. Fantasy is preferred but it can be in any genres. Thanks a lot!
Edit: Any amount of gore/physical violence is fine.
by devones
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Here are some strong recommendations for books (mostly fantasy/romantasy, with a few in other genres) that are frequently praised for well-written, explicit, consensual sex scenes—focusing on mutual desire, chemistry, sensuality, and emotional connection—while avoiding any depiction of sexual assault, rape, non-consensual acts, or coercive elements as plot points or in the romance itself.
These come from reader discussions, romance communities, and reviews emphasizing “spicy but safe/healthy” content. I’ve prioritized M/F (heterosexual) couples as you asked, and leaned toward fantasy where possible.
Top Fantasy/Romantasy Picks
1 The Serpent and the Wings of Night by Carissa Broadbent (Crowns of Nyaxia series #1)Vampire fantasy romance with enemies-to-lovers vibes, high stakes, and steamy, detailed scenes that build tension beautifully. Readers rave about the consensual heat, emotional depth, and how the sex feels earned and passionate—no dark non-con tropes here. Very popular for its spice level without crossing into assault territory.
2 A Ruin of Roses by K.F. Breene (Deliciously Dark Fairytales series)A Beauty and the Beast retelling with monster romance elements, explicit plentiful scenes, and playful, consensual kink. It’s praised for being hot, fun, and focused on mutual pleasure/exploration in a fantasy world.
3 Bonded by Thorns by Elizabeth Helen (Beasts of the Briar series #1)Reverse harem-ish but with strong M/F focus in parts; fairy-tale-inspired fantasy with beasts/princes. The sex is explicit, consensual, and often described as tender yet intense—lots of praise for the chemistry and no non-con.
4 From Blood and Ash by Jennifer L. Armentrout (Blood and Ash series #1)High fantasy with vampires, romance, and very steamy scenes that escalate naturally. The main couple’s encounters are consensual, passionate, and well-written; many readers highlight them as some of the best in the genre without any assault elements in the core romance (note: later books have darker themes, but book 1 stays focused on consent).
Other Strong Options (Non-Fantasy but Excellent Consensual Scenes)
If you’re open to contemporary or historical romance:
• The Bride Test by Helen Hoang (The Kiss Quotient series #2)Autism-represented romance with sweet, awkward, and highly sensual consensual sex that’s often called “beautifully written” and respectful. Lots of buildup and mutual enjoyment—no trauma/non-con.
• Works by Courtney Milan, Mary Balogh, or Lorraine Heath (historical romance)These authors are repeatedly recommended for fully consensual, emotionally rich sex scenes in romance. Milan’s books (e.g., The Duchess War) emphasize equality and desire; Balogh’s often have tender, detailed intimacy.
Many readers specifically seek out “spicy without SA” lists because it’s a common frustration in fantasy romance (e.g., avoiding certain big series with darker elements). These picks come up consistently as safe, hot alternatives.