Books Like...
If you liked Cruel Idols, here are the top 100 books to read next:
- #1
A super-steamy, surprisingly emotional MMF romance with real plot and character development - if you love poly dynamics and don’t mind some kink, it’s a standout, but it’s not for the faint of heart or those allergic to angst.
Readers rave about 'Sugar Daddies' by Jade West, describing it as a captivating and steamy read that delves into the complexities of relationships. The book follows the journey of Katie, Carl, and Rick as they navigate a polyamorous relationship filled with passion, love, and personal growth. Set in the UK, the story is praised for its well-developed characters, engaging plot twists, and immersive writing style that keeps readers hooked from beginning to end.
The envelope icon continued flashing at the bottom of the screen, but I ignored it, along with the lingering glances in my direction. Rick was exceptionally talented in many areas, but subtlety wasn’t...July 2016•443 pages - #2
A powerful, darkly sensual MMF romance with unforgettable characters and plenty of emotional punch - perfect for readers who like their love stories smart, spicy, and just a little bit dangerous.
'The Sharp Edge of Bliss' by Sorcha Black is a love story that delves into the complicated relationships between Blaise, Avery, and Star. The book narrates the journey of three broken individuals finding their own version of happily ever after, with intense scenes that are consensual and hot. The story follows Star, a sex worker hired to be a companion to Blaise, as she navigates her role as the bridge between the two men who start to show her that she has worth beyond her body. The narrative is written from Star's point of view, providing insight into her world view and the complexities of the relationships she forms.
“I know what I’m doing,” I assured him, realizing partway through that he would infer sass from my tone that I definitely didn’t mean. He’d trained the sass out of me hard and fast in the early days,...March 2020•269 pages - #3
If you’re looking for creative, kinky smut with some Disney villain flair, dive right in. If you want a strong plot or aren’t into explicit dom/sub action, this probably isn’t your fairytale.
Desperate Measures by Katee Robert is a dark and steamy retelling of Aladdin, focusing on the twisted relationship between Jafar and Jasmine. The book explores themes of power, revenge, and love, with a heavy emphasis on erotic scenes and primal play. The writing style is described as engaging and immersive, with a twist at the end that is highly praised by readers.
Even if I’d been sleeping, the creak of my bedroom door would have startled me into awareness. No one comes into my room at night. Not my father. Certainly none of the men he insists on keeping in our...May 2019•229 pages - #4
Dirty, angsty, and surprisingly heartfelt - a gripping, kinky college romance for readers craving heat and honest self-discovery, but maybe not for those seeking soft and fluffy feels.
'Priceless' by Miranda Silver is a steamy and emotional story following Christina, a college student struggling to find her true self while living in the shadow of her older sister. The plot revolves around Christina's journey of self-discovery and acceptance, particularly in her complex and intense relationship with Patrick. The writing style of the book is described as raw, heartfelt, and unconventional, exploring themes of lies, truths, coming of age, and dark desires.
I didn’t belong here. I was a business major. I was the girl who’d fallen asleep while people discussed the tragic deaths of the Bronte siblings, the girl who was currently checking page 178 for drool...January 2020•376 pages - #5
Space prince needs a mate, enslaved human girl gets more than she bargained for - if wild, kinky, and problematic alien romance sounds fun, this is your next guilty pleasure. If those themes squick you out, maybe steer clear!
In "His Human Slave" by Renee Rose, Lamira, a human slave with special psychic powers, is purchased by Zander, an alien prince, for breeding purposes. The story unfolds as Lamira navigates her new life with Zander, facing punishments and dominance that awaken unexpected desires in her. As they struggle to trust each other and reveal their secrets, a complex relationship forms between the two characters, set against the backdrop of a Sci-Fi alien romance with BDSM elements.
The plot of the book revolves around Zander's duty to procreate and save his dwindling species, as he is matched with Lamira, a human slave, as the best DNA match. Their interactions are filled with erotic tension and power dynamics, as they both grapple with their roles in a society where humans are considered inferior and Lamira's psychic abilities are forbidden.
Zander sat at the round platform, studying the faces of the elders he respected most, the ones who had risked their lives to save him when the Finn invaded Zandia and wiped out the rest of their speci...November 2016•191 pages - #6
Dark, filthy, and packed with kink - a must for lovers of steamy taboo romance, but tread carefully if you need lighter themes or unambiguous consent.
'Feral King' by Sparrow Beckett is a dark romance duology that delves into BDSM relationships and features a reclusive and rough male protagonist who struggles with social skills. The female lead is often hired as a caretaker or housekeeper for the male protagonist, leading to a power dynamic that evolves into a D/s relationship. The plot involves intense and explicit scenes, including elements of edging, branding, piercing, and CNC. The writing style is described as dark, smutty, and heavy on BDSM elements, with trigger warnings recommended due to the intense themes explored in the book.
Minnow was pretty sure her ears were bleeding. Henry’s Coffee Emporium was a cacophony of sound, making it necessary for her to answer Ms. Sutton’s interview questions at a volume that was neither pol...June 2017•378 pages - #7
A fun, flirty, and ultra-sexy start to a beloved series - great for those craving romance with an authentic BDSM edge and plenty of playful banter.
'The Sassy Submissive' by Golden Angel is part of the Stronghold Doms series, set in a BDSM club. The story follows the characters Adam and Angel, exploring themes of dominance and submission, as well as the journey of self-discovery and acceptance. The writing style is described as engaging and steamy, with a mix of humor and erotic scenes that keep readers hooked on the characters' evolving relationships.
She’d deliberately chosen Chained because it was a new club and it was in Virginia, much farther away from her home than the club she actually wanted to join—Stronghold, in DC. It was doubtful regular...2013•375 pages - #8
Intense, emotional, and super steamy - Tragic King is a must for fans of dark, kinky poly romance, but might overwhelm those looking for lighter fare.
'Tragic King' in the series 'The Dominant Bastard Duology' by Sparrow Beckett is a polyamorous BDSM story that delves into the complex dynamics between Severin, Minnow, and Rodrigo. The book explores themes of power exchange, rough loving, and emotional connections within a non-traditional relationship setup. The writing style is described as immersive, with well-developed characters and intricate storytelling that keeps readers engaged throughout the duology.
Severin studied his brother – a younger version of himself he hadn’t known existed – and tried to decide whether to give in to the urge to slam the door in his face. He’d wanted to speak to him, or th...September 2017•376 pages
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Dominant Bastard Duology ) - #9
Come for the scorching romance, stay for the twisty modern Olympus drama. "Neon Gods" is a spicy, addictive read - perfect for those wanting bold characters, Greek myth vibes, and seriously hot scenes. Not deep literary fare, but a fun escape if you’re in the mood for some heat!
In "Neon Gods" by Katee Robert, readers are taken on an electrifying journey through a modern twist on Greek mythology. The story follows Persephone, who is desperate to escape an arranged marriage with Zeus and finds herself in the Lower City with the enigmatic Hades. Together, they strike a deal for Persephone to belong to Hades for three months, setting off a chain of events that intertwine revenge, romance, and the complexities of power dynamics within Olympus. The writing style expertly weaves together elements of romance, mythology, and steamy scenes, creating a captivating narrative that keeps readers hooked from start to finish.
Persephone and Hades' relationship is at the heart of the story, showcasing a unique take on the classic myth. The characters are well-developed, with Persephone portrayed as strong, smart, and selfless, while Hades is depicted as a complex figure with both dark and compassionate traits. The chemistry between the leads sizzles on the page, drawing readers into a world filled with intrigue, passion, and forbidden desires. Despite some predictable plot twists, the storytelling is captivating, leaving readers eager to explore more of the Dark Olympus series.
I glance over my shoulder at Psyche. “You hate them, too.” I’ve lost count of the number of events our mother has dragged us to over the years. She’s always got her eye on the next prize, on the newes...June 2021•385 pages - #10
Atmospheric, twisty, and dark as midnight - Master of Salt & Bones is a daring gothic romance that’s as unsettling as it is gripping. If you crave deeply layered stories and can handle heavy subjects, add it to your TBR; if not, maybe steer clear.
'Master of Salt & Bones' by Keri Lake is a dark and suspenseful romance novel that follows the story of Isa, a 19-year-old with a troubled past, who becomes the companion of Lady Blackthorne in a gothic castle. The book is told in dual character perspective and dual time periods, revealing deep backstories and mysteries surrounding the characters. The plot is filled with twists and turns, keeping readers engaged and intrigued until the very end. The writing style is described as atmospheric, raw, and emotional, with elements of suspense and dark romance that challenge readers with serious themes like mental illness, abuse, and trauma.
Cigarette smoke mingles with the warm, salty sea air that’s breezing through the cracked window, as my aunt taps her thumb like a metronome against the steering wheel. “Yeah, you would be, too, if you...April 2020•551 pages











