I need a book that fully delivers on enemies to lovers—none of that “mild dislike” nonsense. They need to truly hate each other with passion. I want slow burn, lots of tension, intense back-and-forth, and obsessive devotion once they finally give in.
Here’s what I’m looking for:
• Well-written & mature – No cringy, childish dialogue. I need something with actual depth.
• Morally grey or straight-up villainous characters – I love protagonists who are cunning, ruthless, and not afraid to be a little evil.
• Power struggles, scheming, backstabbing, betrayal – I want mind games, manipulation, and a battle for control. Bonus if there are some jaw-dropping plot twists that leave me gasping.
• A gripping, high-stakes story – The romance shouldn’t be the only thing going on. I want a rich world, strong side characters, and a plot that keeps me on the edge of my seat.
• Tragedy, heartbreak, and longing – Give me suffering, yearning, and emotional devastation.
• A truly mean MMC – He needs to be ruthless, cutting with his words, and unapologetic (at least at first). The banter should hurt.
Basically, I want dark, intense, and thrilling. Think a blend of political intrigue, war, and power plays, with a romance that goes from seething hatred to all-consuming obsession.
Any recs?
by Equivalent-Section21