I’m looking for quite the specific mix I can’t find often. Romance with explicit scenes in a darker atmosphere and noir style writing. But no dark romance stuff, no violence, kink or toxic behavior. Elements of magical realism very welcome. Wholesome story arc, melancholy setting. Partners on equal ground but with real sexual tension.
I know, quite specific.
Think The Ninth Gate meets the Shadow of the Wind and Blade Runner, add spice and some Mr and Mrs Smith on top.
Any recs ? 🫣
by PRJOANES
1 Comment
Damn thats a really specific vibe youre going for but I totally get it – like you want that moody atmospheric tension without all the problematic stuff that usually comes with noir
Have you checked out any of the newer urban fantasy authors who write more mature content? Theres definitely some stuff out there that hits that magical realism + steamy + atmospheric combo without going full dark romance territory
The whole “partners on equal ground” thing is key too – so many books in this space default to power imbalances which ruins the whole vibe