Ah, a new year, new goals, new habits, and of course, a new TBR list! As I’ve been putting mine together, I can’t help but think back on all the books I’ve read over the past year (or two). So, whether you’re crafting your 2026 TBR or just looking for your next great read, this one’s for you. Here are 4 of my top dark fantasy reads of 2025.
#1 What Lies Beyond the Veil
Have you ever picked up a book not knowing whether you’re going to love it or hate it? That was me with What Lies Beyond the Veil, and let me just say, I’m so glad I gave it a chance. I read it before all the hype began, and I still firmly believe this romantasy gem hasn’t received the full moment it deserves.
If you’re a fan of ACOTAR (A Court of Thorns and Roses) or love fantasy romance books that mix forbidden love, powerful magic, and fae-filled worlds, this one deserves a spot on your TBR. What Lies Beyond the Veil has everything I look for in a romantasy rich world-building, tension, and that perfect slow-burn chemistry that keeps you hooked from start to finish.
And as an added bonus this book is part of a series, so once you’re done, there’s even more magic, chaos, and fae intrigue waiting for you in the next installment.
My only small critique? It took me a little while to get into at first, and that is the reason for the 4.5/5, but trust me, once the story picks up, you’ll be completely captivated. The payoff is absolutely worth it.
#2 A Touch of Darkness
If you’re looking to heat up your TBR list… literally, A Touch of Darkness is for you. This book had me blushing like a middle schooler with a crush and glancing over my shoulder, half afraid someone might see what I was reading.
What makes this story stand out is its setting; instead of the familiar fae realms, it dives into a darker, more dangerous world ruled by Greek gods. I’ll admit, I was hesitant to step away from my usual fantasy comfort zone, but this book did not disappoint.
Fair warning, though: the spice level is off the charts between the tension, passion, and high-stakes power plays; it’s the kind of read that consumes you completely. This one sometimes was a little too much spice for me (hence the 4/5), but overall it was still an enjoyable read.
Beyond the heat, this story brought out everything laughter, tears, anger, and even a few “throw the book” moments. I found myself fully immersed, connected to the characters in a way that felt raw and real.
Another thing to note- this is a tandem series, meaning it’s meant to be read alongside another connected storyline. With full honesty, I tried to follow the tandem reading order, but just couldn’t bring myself to do it. It started feeling like I was reading the same story twice. That said, I stuck with this series on its own and had no problem following along or enjoying it fully.
This book is a part of a series of seven, which means once you’re hooked (and trust me, you will be), there’s plenty more delicious chaos and divine drama to come.
#3 The Ever King
The Ever King was another book I wasn’t sure about when I first picked it up but I definitely do not regret giving it a chance. This dark pirate romantasy delivers everything I love in a fantasy series: enemies-to-lovers tension, fae, magic, high-seas adventure, and a story that sweeps you off your feet.
Told in dual perspectives, it feels almost like getting two stories for the price of one, giving you a deeper look into both hearts and minds. And the best part? It’s a trilogy, so if you get lost adrift on the seas, there’s plenty more adventure waiting to keep you hooked.
Fair warning: the spice level is high, and they don’t call it dark romance for nothing. Twists, turns, and heated tension keep the pages turning this book will pull you in and refuse to let go.
#4 King of Battle and Blood
If you love an enemies-to-lovers moment that’s fast-paced and full of tension, King of Battle and Blood is right up your alley. This book checks all the best fantasy boxes an arranged marriage, fated lovers, vampires, witches, and a heroine who absolutely commands the page.
Isolde, our fierce and fearless protagonist, has quickly become one of my favorite fantasy heroines (second only to Aelin Galathynius herself). She’s bold, defiant, and refuses to bow to anyone even a vampire king. In addition to Isolde, I did end up absolutely adoring Adrian. Not too mentiont the chemistry between Isolde and Adrian is also electric, unapologetically passionate, and adds a delicious intensity to the already high-stakes plot.
Now, I’ll be honest if you’re like me, you might hesitate before picking up something with vampires. But trust me, this one is worth it. The story blends dark romance, power struggles, and supernatural intrigue in a way that feels both epic and addictive.
And the best part? It’s a trilogy, with the third book having just released on January 1st, so there’s no waiting between cliffhangers. From the first page to the last, it’s a wild, passionate ride filled with betrayal, magic, and that kind of tension that keeps you up way too late reading “just one more chapter”.
While there are so many more reads that I adore, these are the ones that continue to hold a special place on my bookshelf and in my heart. Here’s to another year filled with beautiful worlds, unforgettable characters, and a few too many late nights spent reading Cheers to the new year and happy reading!
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