Books Like...
If you liked Credence, here are the top 100 books to read next:
- #1
A steamy, addictive, and polarizing forbidden romance - either you'll be hooked from the tension and angst, or you'll be put off by the taboo content and sometimes messy characters. Approach with an open mind and prepare for an emotional rollercoaster!
Birthday Girl by Penelope Douglas is a contemporary romance novel that explores the forbidden love trope, focusing on the relationship between Jordan and Pike. The story unfolds as Jordan, celebrating her birthday, meets Pike, her boyfriend's father, at a movie theater. Despite the age gap and societal taboos, their connection deepens, leading to a complex and angsty love story. The writing style is described as genuine, sweet, and well-paced, with a slow-burn romance that builds on genuine chemistry and character development.
Unease pricks at the back of my neck. If he’s not answering, then he’s either asleep or out. Both could mean he’ll remember me after it’s too late. He’s not always unreliable, but this wouldn’t be the...April 2018•406 pages - #2
Love dramatic, spicy, character-driven romance with edge and big twists? Start reading. But if you need fast pacing and crystal-clear storytelling, tread carefully - this one is a wild, emotional ride that won't work for everyone.
"Flock" in The Ravenhood series by Kate Stewart is a gripping tale that follows 19-year-old Cecelia as she navigates a year working at her estranged father's company to secure her inheritance. The plot unfolds with Cecelia meeting Sean, her supervisor, and being introduced to a group of friends with a mysterious connection marked by a raven tattoo. As Cecelia delves deeper into this world, secrets, twists, and turns unravel, leading her to confront her feelings for both Sean and Dominic amidst a complex and emotionally charged storyline. The writing style of Kate Stewart is described as finely honed, evoking deep emotions and keeping readers hooked with unexpected surprises and well-developed characters that challenge perceptions and provoke strong reactions.
PULLING UP TO THE MASSIVE iron gates, I punch in the code Roman gave me and gawk as the sprawling estate comes into view when I drive through. Acres and acres of neon grass littered with trees surroun...July 2020•365 pages - #3
One of the most infamous and polarizing dark romances out there - intense, steamy, and a bit unhinged. Lovers of high-heat, boundary-pushing stories will devour it, but it's a hard pass for those who don’t enjoy morally messy or uncomfortable reads.
Corrupt by Penelope Douglas is a dark and suspenseful romance novel that follows the unique and intense relationship between Rika and Michael. The story is filled with mind games, dangerous pranks, and boundary-pushing freedom, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. The plot switches between past and present, revealing a mysterious and lust-filled narrative that challenges the characters' sense of right and wrong.
I didn’t need a new dress. I already had several I’d only worn once, and at nineteen, I could definitely pick out my own clothes. Not that he would be here to see it anyway, and if he was, he wouldn’t...2015•511 pages - #4
Love it or hate it, "Den of Vipers" is an outrageous, totally unfiltered guilty pleasure for those who want their dark romance insane, intense, and dripping with taboo. Absolutely *not* for the faint-hearted or spice newbies, but an instant favorite for the right reader.
'Den of Vipers' by K.A. Knight is a dark romance novel that follows the story of Roxy, a tough and resilient woman who finds herself entangled with the Vipers, a group of powerful and possessive men. As Roxy navigates dangerous situations and dark pasts, she forms complex relationships with each of the Vipers, leading to a steamy reverse harem dynamic. The plot is filled with twists, intense scenes, and character growth, all narrated through multiple points of view, creating a thrilling and captivating reading experience.
The writing style of 'Den of Vipers' is described as engaging, fast-paced, and immersive, drawing readers into a world of underworld mafia bosses, intense relationships, and personal struggles. The author, K.A. Knight, skillfully weaves together a story that balances dark themes with moments of passion and empowerment, keeping readers hooked from beginning to end.
“You understand what that means, don’t you, Rob?” Ryder murmurs as he straightens his suit, not that it was even wrinkled in the first place. Fucker always dresses like he’s ready to walk a runway. Th...July 2020•654 pages - #5
A highly addictive, drama-packed dark romance - raw, messy, and hard to put down, though definitely not for the faint of heart or those craving a wholesome love story.
'Punk 57' by Penelope Douglas revolves around the unique and complex characters of Ryen and Misha, who start off as pen pals and eventually fall in love. The story delves into themes of fitting in, bullying, and the struggles faced by teenagers in today's society. The plot unfolds as the characters navigate their growing feelings for each other, secrets from their pasts, and the challenges of high school life. The writing style is described as engaging, with a mix of young adult and new adult elements, highlighting the emotional turmoil and relationships of the characters.
You would absolutely hate her. She’s everything we can’t stand. Mean, cavalier, superficial… The kind who doesn’t have a thought stay in her head too long or else she needs a nap, right? I’ve always b...October 2016•371 pages - #6
Wildly taboo, deeply polarizing, and not for the faint of heart - if you like forbidden, extreme romance and can separate fiction from reality, this is an infamous, unputdownable ride. Otherwise, steer clear!
The Wild by K. Webster is a dark romance fic with taboo and angsty elements. The book explores themes of forbidden relationships, age gaps, and unconventional love stories. The writing style is described as steamy, with a good plot that keeps readers engaged despite the taboo nature of the story. Readers have found the book to be intense, emotional, and filled with twists that make it a compelling read.
Sabrina stares out the window, her features hard behind her oversized sunglasses and too much makeup. I squeeze her hand but she doesn’t squeeze back. Six years after Drew’s death and my wife has yet...August 2017•250 pages - #7
Utterly filthy, deliciously depraved, and unapologetically bold - if you like your romances dark, kinky, and boundary-pushing, Cruel Idols is a must-read. If not, proceed with caution (and maybe a safe word).
In "Cruel Idols" by Sorcha Black, the story revolves around Vandal and Zero, two successful horror book authors who find themselves secluded in a cabin with a young woman named Sadie. The book delves into themes of dark romance, fear, pain-based kink, and twisted love. The plot unfolds with a mix of triggers and intense scenes, blurring the lines between love and hate, while exploring the dynamics of a complex relationship among the characters. The writing style is described as sensually scary, well-crafted, and engaging, keeping readers on the edge of their seats with unexpected twists and mind games.
Irritated and sweaty, I leaned my bike against a tree and examined the pretty two-storey cottage. The place looked like a children’s book of fairytales come to life—warm gray stone and happy blue shut...July 2020•284 pages - #8
An unputdownable, angst-loaded rollercoaster that will rip your heart out and stitch it back together. If you’re after a deeply emotional, unpredictable love story with all the feels, it’s a must-read - just keep tissues handy!
'Black Swan Affair' by K.L. Kreig is a gripping tale of love, betrayal, and tangled relationships. The story revolves around Maverick, who finds herself torn between two brothers, Killian and Kael. As secrets unravel and pasts collide, Maverick is faced with heart-wrenching decisions that challenge her loyalties and desires. The narrative is filled with raw emotions, unexpected twists, and a complex love triangle that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The writing style of K.L. Kreig is described as emotive and poignant, drawing readers into a world of passion, angst, and conflicting emotions.
I don’t know. Maybe. Maybe this is the only way to atone for past indiscretions and sins. Losing the one person in this world I hold most dear. I start sobbing uncontrollably, my cries muffled by my p...September 2016•370 pages - #9
A sweet, ultra-slow-burn romantic suspense with a lovable, gruff hero and an adventurous heroine - perfect for fans of mountain survival, gentle cinnamon roll MMCs, and heartwarming caretaking. Not flawless, but a favorite in the series for many!
Gone Too Deep by Katie Ruggle is a romantic suspense novel set in snowy Colorado, following the journey of a city girl who hires a grumpy, male wilderness guide to help her find her father in the wilderness. The book features a slow-burn romance between the rugged, virgin hero and the sweet, determined heroine. The plot involves survival elements, danger, and a search and rescue mission, all unfolding in a wintery setting. The writing style is described as engaging, with well-developed characters and intense scenes that keep readers hooked until the end.
Ellie almost didn’t take the call. If her date hadn’t been so completely, utterly, and excruciatingly boring, she would’ve let it go to voice mail. But thanks to Dylan’s never-ending monologue about h...August 2016•448 pages - #10
Five Brothers by Penelope Douglas is an engaging story that explores the complex relationships between a female lead, Kristjen, and five brothers. The plot unfolds with intimate drama as Kristjen navigates her connections with each brother, revealing their struggles and emotional depth. The book captures relatable experiences, especially through Macon, who stands out with his character development. Readers will find themselves drawn into a narrative that balances steamy interactions and heartfelt moments amid a backdrop of grief and recovery.
July 2024•560 pages











