if you liked this, read that! 📖

2025/3/5 Edited to

... Read moreOkay, so if you're anything like me, after finishing S.T. Abby's Mindf*ck series, you were probably left with a massive book hangover, right? I mean, Nikki Hearts and Leigh Raven's story was just everything – the psychological depth, the intense revenge plot, and that undeniable chemistry. Finding something that captures that same dark, thrilling, and utterly addictive energy can feel impossible. But trust me, there are gems out there if you know what to look for! What truly hooked me about Mindf*ck was the unique blend of a morally gray protagonist, a terrifyingly smart serial killer, and a romance that slowly simmers amidst the chaos. It's not just about the 'serial killers with romance' trope; it's about the intricate dance of power, obsession, and uncovering hidden aspects of human nature. The way their lives become interconnected and the lines between good and evil blur is just *chef's kiss*. That's why I immediately reached for books like Butcher & Blackbird and Black Sheep. While they have their own distinct voices, they definitely scratch that itch for dark, twisted romance. Butcher & Blackbird, for instance, dives headfirst into a delicious serial killer x serial killer dynamic. Imagine two equally dangerous individuals, drawn to each other through their darkest desires, navigating a world of secrets and bloodshed. It’s got that intense, almost predatory vibe that fans of Mindf*ck will absolutely adore. The slow-burn tension and the forbidden attraction? Oh, it’s all there, building up to some truly captivating moments. Then there's Black Sheep, which brought even more of those beloved enemies to lovers tropes to the table, but with a dark twist. It's not just a playful rivalry; it’s a high-stakes game where trust is a luxury and betrayal lurks around every corner. If you loved the complex relationship development in Mindf*ck, where the connection feels earned through shared trauma and understanding, you’ll find a lot to appreciate here. Many of you might also be on the hunt for books with impactful sex scenes from books that are integral to the plot and character development, not just thrown in for shock value. Dark romance, especially in this subgenre, often uses intimacy to explore vulnerability, power dynamics, and the deepening of emotional bonds in extreme circumstances. Both Butcher & Blackbird and Black Sheep deliver on this front, offering steamy scenes that are woven seamlessly into the narrative, enhancing the intensity of the relationships. It's about that raw, unfiltered connection that forms when characters are pushed to their limits. Beyond specific titles, if you're looking to explore similar stories, keep an eye out for keywords like 'dark psychological thriller romance,' 'revenge romance,' or 'morally gray characters.' Think about what elements you loved most: was it the intricate plot of betrayal and rebellion, the suspense, or the unconventional love story? Sometimes authors like Freida McFadden, known for her twisty thrillers, can offer a similar sense of suspense, even if the romance aspect might not be as central. And while titles like 'Sarvat Hasin strange girls' might lean more into psychological horror, they often share themes of dark secrets and character complexity that resonate with Mindf*ck fans. Ultimately, the goal is to find books that make you feel that same rush, that same 'can't put it down' urgency. These recommendations are a great starting point to dive back into that dark, delicious world of compelling characters and unforgettable connections.

11 comments

Related posts

A stack of books on a white surface with the text "IF YOU LIKED THIS READ THIS INDIE AUTHOR BOOK EDITION SWIPE" and pink flower icons. The Lemon8 logo and username "@paigesofsmut" are visible at the bottom.
Two book covers are displayed: "The Fine Print" by Lauren Asher on the left, and "Elevated Ambitions" by Aurora Steinhart on the right. The image suggests "If you liked this" read "Read this" with a bokeh background.
Two book covers are displayed: "A Court of Mist and Fury" by Sarah J. Maas on the left, and "Heir of Stardust and Secrets" by CC Hartly on the right. The image suggests "If you liked this" read "Read this" with a bokeh background.
If you liked this read this!
If you liked some of these mainstream books such as ACOMAF, Caraval, GOT, Powerless and The Fine Print I have some great Indie alternatives for you to check out 🥰 #books #bookish #booktok #bookwormsoflemon8
paigesofsmut

paigesofsmut

439 likes

If You Want Respect Everywhere You Go, Read This
Respect isn't about being loud. It's not about dominance. And it's definitely not about control. Social power comes from awareness, restraint, emotional intelligence, and how you carry yourself when no one is watching. Most people chase validation. Few people master presence. Thes
Emerald Intentions ✨

Emerald Intentions ✨

249 likes

An image comparing two stacks of books on a white fluffy stool, labeled "LIKE THIS?" and "READ THIS!" with "ROMANCE EDITION" below. Pink lightning bolt arrows point to each stack, suggesting book recommendations.
A stack of five books from the "CHESTNUT SPRINGS SERIES by Elsie Silver" on a white fluffy stool. Titles include "Hopeless," "Reckless," "Powerless," "Heartless," and "Flawless." Text describes the series about the Eaton sons in a small town.
A stack of three books from the "WINDY CITY SERIES by Liz Tomforde" on a white fluffy stool. Titles include "Caught Up," "The Right Move," and "Mile High." Text describes the series as interconnected standalones about Chicago sports teams.
If You Liked This, Read This
If you loved the Chestnut Springs series, you’re in luck! I recently read the Windy City Series and WOW. They are very different in terms of setting and the characters personalities, but I definitely think if you enjoyed one you will enjoy the other! Both series get a 5-star rating from me!
Khloemyers

Khloemyers

1278 likes

If you liked THAT, read THIS!! thriller edition🤭
What other genres do you want to see?? Give me all your thriller recs, pls!🥰 #thrillerbookrecommendations #thrillerbooks #books #lemon8bookclub #readingrecommendations
caralinemreads

caralinemreads

61 likes

A title card with the text "if you liked that; try this... dark romance edition" in white and red fonts, set against a blurred background of dark foliage. It includes "lemon8 @littleb_tx" at the bottom.
A grid of dark romance book covers, paired with arrows suggesting recommendations. Titles include "Hans" by S.J. Tilly, "Little Dove" by Layla Frost, "God of Malice" by Rina Kent, "The Lies" by Penelope Douglas, "Haunting Adeline" by H.D. Carlton, "Insatiable" by Leigh Rivers, "Corrupt" by Penelope Douglas, and "Beautiful Fiend" by Lola King.
A grid of dark romance book covers, paired with arrows for recommendations. Titles include "Lights Out" by Navessa Allen, "No Mercy in Red" by Shannon V. Velez, "Gothikana" by Runyx, "Master of Salt & Bones" by Keri Lake, "Butcher & Blackbird" by Brynne Weaver, "Marrow" by Trisha Wolfe and Brynne Weaver, "Dante" by Sadie Kincaid, and "Painted Scars" by Neva Altaj.
If you like this.. Read this. 🔥
#darkromancebooks #darkromance #bookrecommendations #bookrecs #bookfyp
littleb_TX

littleb_TX

454 likes

liked that show? read this!
Want some book recs based off movies or tv shows you like??? 👀📚 I have personally read and watched all of these things so i can attest that they are similar in vibe and/or plot, and i guarantee if you like one you’ll like the other. And these recs can go either way! If you’ve read the book, you’
molly

molly

167 likes

Two books, 'Still Beating' by Jennifer Hartmann and 'Pretty Girls' by Karin Slaughter, are displayed on a white fluffy stool with text overlays suggesting 'Liked This? Read This?'.
The book 'Pretty Girls' by Karin Slaughter is shown on a white fluffy stool, accompanied by its title and a synopsis describing the story of two sisters and a vanished sibling.
The book 'Still Beating' by Jennifer Hartmann is displayed on a white fluffy stool, with its title and a synopsis about two people forced to work together to survive an abductor.
If You Liked This, Read This
These books are a different, but if you liked one I definitely think you’ll like the other! Side note — it’s not just because of the oddly similar covers. 🫢 Both books are very dark, so I definitely recommend checking trigger warnings. I think personally, Pretty Girls was harder to get throu
Khloemyers

Khloemyers

114 likes

A vintage television set sits on a pile of newspaper clippings. Overlay text reads 'If you liked this show/movie check out this book,' suggesting recommendations. The image has a black and white filter with red text accents.
This image recommends 'The Mindf*ck Series Books 1-5' by S.T. Abby if you liked 'CRIMINAL MINDS'. It features the Criminal Minds logo and a book cover with hands holding an apple pierced with nails.
This image recommends 'THE LOVE INTEREST' by CALE DIETRICH if you liked the movie 'THIS MEANS WAR'. It displays the movie poster with Chris Pine, Reese Witherspoon, and Tom Hardy, and a book cover with silhouettes.
If you liked this
Brie 🤍✨📚

Brie 🤍✨📚

470 likes

A bookshelf filled with various books, featuring a text overlay that reads 'If you like ✨this✨ read that!' to suggest book recommendations.
A book cover for 'Hush Hush' is shown, with a recommendation to read 'Denial' and 'Depression' from 'The Grief Series' by R.S. Crawford for adult readers.
A Google search result for the show 'Siren' is displayed, recommending the book 'A Mermaid's Kiss' by Ashleigh Bello.
If you liked ✨this✨ read that!
#bookrecs #newbooks #readthis #bookrecommendations #ifyoulikedthisreadthis
Jamie Bolton

Jamie Bolton

26 likes

A collage of six fantasy book covers including "Fourth Wing," "Zodiac Academy," "From Blood and Ash," "Throne of Glass," "One Dark Window," and "The Serpent and the Wings of Night," with the overlay text "IF YOU LIKED THIS, YOU SHOULD READ."
A book recommendation showing "Fourth Wing" by Rebecca Yarros, with an arrow pointing to "Quicksilver" by Callie Hart, described as having a "Broody but swoon worthy MMC with an epic plot."
A book recommendation showing "From Blood and Ash" by Jennifer L. Armentrout, with an arrow pointing to "Eternal Reign" by Caroline Peckham & Susanne Valenti, described as having "High stakes + so much tension + a vampire prince."
📚If you liked this, you should read…
Fantasy Book Recs🖤 #lemon8challenge #lemon8bookclub #romancebooks #fantasybookrecs #fantasybookrecommendation
ClaraReadsRomance

ClaraReadsRomance

716 likes

If you liked this then read this
#read it #read📚 #goodbooks #lemon8bookclub #bookrecommendations
Ariel Lett

Ariel Lett

13 likes

A stack of six dark-themed books by Shantel Tessier, including titles like 'Madness,' 'Carnage,' 'Sabotage,' 'The Sacrifice,' 'The Sinner,' and 'The Ritual,' presented as recommendations if the viewer liked 'LORDS' books.
If you liked the LORDS, you should read these next
In my why choose era #booksoflemon8 #darkromancebooks #whychooseromance #bookrecommendations #spicyromance
chel🩶

chel🩶

1373 likes

🖤Books To Read If You Liked Haunting Adeline
Have you read Haunting Adeline? Still not over Zade Meadows? You're in the right place. These books deliver the same unhinged energy-spice, suspense, obsession, and morally gray men who will make you question all your standards. 📖Expect: - dangerous men with god complexes - heroines who r
ClaraReadsRomance

ClaraReadsRomance

875 likes

If you liked this…read this
just some personal book recommendations based on past favs!! the recommended books just reminded me of the first ones :) a good girls guide to murder —> this lie will kill you the secret history —> the IT girl #books #booktok #agggtm #thesecrethistory #itgirl
Ruby Edith

Ruby Edith

42 likes

if you liked this, read this 🫶✨
if you loved that book and are chasing the same tropes, tension, and emotional payoff, these are the reads you need to add to your tbr next 🤍✨ - #booktokrecommendation #booktok #hotbooks #bookrecommendations
💐

💐

3 likes

A collection of romance and rom-com books scattered on a white bedspread, with text "Books that feel like..." and decorative pink bows.
A collage of three movie posters: "Confessions of a Shopaholic," "The Devil Wears Prada," and "How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days," with text "If you like this...".
A book cover titled "Diaries Of A Fashionista" by Sophia Larocca, featuring an illustration of a woman in pink and a man in black, with text "Read This".
If you liked this movie… read this book! 💓✨
#reading📖 #romcombooks #book recommendations
Sophie 🌸🎀

Sophie 🌸🎀

31 likes

A collage-style image with the title "IF YOU LIKED This READ THAT" in a distressed font, surrounded by newspaper clippings, a swallow tattoo, a blue star, and white dice.
A book recommendation for "Unsticky" by Sarra Manning, presented as "IF YOU LIKE PRETTY WOMAN READ THIS," with the book cover and a plot summary on a leopard print background with dice and a purple star.
A book recommendation for "Sweetbitter" by Stephanie Danler, presented as "IF YOU LIKE SEX AND THE CITY READ THIS," with the book cover and a plot summary on a collage background featuring cherries, stars, and the Statue of Liberty.
If you liked this, read that
#bookreccomendations #ifyoulikedthisreadthis #readingrecommendations
Victoria Angelique | Author 📚

Victoria Angelique | Author 📚

2 likes

If you liked ACOTAR this is a MUST READ! 📚🤯
Trying to get people to read this book series (which is on kindle unlimited by the way) is pretty much my ultimate bookish mission. I am vigilant, I am constantly telling people if they liked ACOTAR then they have to give this series a chance. I promise you this book has twists you will never see c
SB Allred

SB Allred

13 likes

A hand holds a stack of books with the text 'Liked this? READ THIS!' and 'romances' above, and 'lemon8 @khloemyers' in the corner.
Five books from Elsie Silver's Chestnut Springs series (Flawless, Heartless, Powerless, Reckless, Hopeless) are displayed on a shelf, with text 'if you liked ELSIE SILVER'S CHESTNUT SPRINGS SERIES'.
A hand holds two Elsie Silver books, 'Off to the Races' and 'Wild Love' (Rose Hill Series), with text suggesting these are next reads from the author.
Liked This? Read This!
If you liked one, I think you will love the other! If you were a fan of Elsie Silver’s Chestnut Springs series, you need to check out her other books! Before Chestnut Springs, she had published the Gold Rush Ranch series and is now working on the Rose Hill Series — all of these books are amaz
Khloemyers

Khloemyers

46 likes

If you liked this..read this THRILLER EDITION!
The ultimate cures for your biggest thriller hangovers. 📖🔪 There is nothing worse than finishing a 5-star psychological thriller and not knowing what to pick up next to get that exact same feeling. If you loved the dark, twisted energy of these massive hits, I have the perfect matches to fill th
Buggy’s Books

Buggy’s Books

3 likes

If you liked that.. read this 🔪🩸
#bookrec #scream #horrorcommunity #romancebooks #ghostface
bloodredcrims0n

bloodredcrims0n

6 likes

Dark Romance to read if you liked these 🖤
#darkromancerecommendations #dark romance #darkromance #darkromancebooks #booktok
Ty ❤️‍🔥

Ty ❤️‍🔥

2613 likes

If you liked this ➡️ read that!
It’s all about the ✨ vibes ✨ for me! back again with another list of books I’ve read that have reminded me of others. These all either have similar plots, tropes, or vibes (in my opinion). #ifyoulikedthisreadthis #bookstagram #bookrec #bookrecs #bookrecsoflemon8 #bookrecsofinstag
Jackie

Jackie

16 likes

If you liked that 👉🏻 read this (part 2!)
🏷️ #bookstagram #readersoflemon8 #readersofinstagram #readersofig #bookrecommendations #whattoread #books #booklover #booklovers #bookaddict
Jackie

Jackie

39 likes

If you liked this book, you should read this one!📚
Here are book recommendations that are similar in vibes to other popular books! I love making these types of comparisons so let me know if you want to see a part 2 ☺️📚 #lemon8partner #lemon8bookclub #bookrecommendations #ifyoulikedthisreadthis #readersoflemon8
Bethany Taylor

Bethany Taylor

45 likes

A vibrant orange background features the text "IF YOU ALWAYS ASSUME PEOPLE WON'T LIKE YOU, READ THIS." Shadows of two hands forming a heart are visible, with the Lemon8 logo and username at the bottom.
An orange gradient background displays text discussing how highly sensitive people struggle with insecurity and assume others won't like them. Subtle star-like graphics and the Lemon8 logo are present.
The image explains that assuming rejection is a protection mechanism to avoid being hurt. The text is on an orange gradient background with star graphics and the Lemon8 logo.
If you think people won’t like you read this!!
I literally cannot tell you the last time I walked into a room & thought, “they probably won’t like me.” At this stage, it’s a normal, programmed belief for me that when I meet people, they will probably like me! And if they don’t, that’s okay, because I still like me. #anxiety #th
S H A Y ᥫ᭡

S H A Y ᥫ᭡

89 likes

If you liked New Girl…
My absolute favorite show is New Girl! If you love books that blend humor, heart, and quirky characters, much like the dynamics of the show, you might like these books! #newgirl #nickmiller #jessicaday #booktok #book recommendations
Megs 🖤🗡️📚

Megs 🖤🗡️📚

212 likes

An ancient Greek temple partially submerged in dark water, with text recommending a book for adult Percy Jackson fans.
An ancient Greek temple partially submerged in dark water, with text describing a book where gods grew old and lost power.
An ancient Greek temple partially submerged in dark water, with text explaining gods regain power by drinking human blood.
If You Liked PJ, You Are Going To Love This
sofiaaauthor

sofiaaauthor

15 likes

Don’t read this book… 🫣
…unless you love cowboys, slow burn romance, rodeo and western life, healing from trauma, and short chapters! 📖: The Pieces We’ve Lost - OUT NOW on KU & Paperback A cowboy romance centered around rodeo. A girl who swore she’d never fall in love with a cowboy after the loss of her dad, and
H.K. Green

H.K. Green

669 likes

If you liked Sinners, read THIS!
If you’re craving an intense, action-packed, Black vampire story that leaves you breathless—Blood Slaves by Markus Redmond DELIVERS. ⭐ Cinematic battles 🩸 Revolutionary themes 🖤 Unforgettable characters 5/5 stars from me and going STRAIGHT to my must-read list for 2025. 🧛🏾‍♂️ Ready to li
Jaquetta Readz

Jaquetta Readz

13 likes

A vibrant, retro-themed collage background with a pink pop-up window displaying the text: "If you liked these 2000s shows Read these books." A cursor points to the text.
A collage recommending "The Girls Are All So Nice Here" if you liked "Gossip Girl." It features the DVD cover for "Gossip Girl" and the book cover for "The Girls Are All So Nice Here" by Laurie Elizabeth Flynn.
A collage recommending "Before We Were Strangers" if you liked "One Tree Hill." It features the DVD cover for "One Tree Hill" and the book cover for "Before We Were Strangers" by Renee Carlino.
If you liked these 2000s shows, read these books!
#2000s #bookrecommendations #booktok #ifyoulikedthisreadthis #lemon8books
Cheyenne ✨

Cheyenne ✨

701 likes

If you liked watching that then READ this!
#carryon #netflix #bookreccomendation #booklemon8 #bookwormsoflemon8
LexBetweenTheLines

LexBetweenTheLines

0 likes

A bookshelf with various books, featuring the text overlay "IF YOU LIKE THIS - READ THIS - WITH A TWIST!!" and the Lemon8 watermark.
The cover of the children's book "The Sisters Grimm: The Fairy-Tale Detectives" by Michael Buckley, with a "childhood book" label.
The cover of the adult fantasy novel "The Cruel Prince" by Holly Black, with an "adult book" label and "READ THIS!" text.
if you like this- READ THIS -
when i was younger and reading all the time, i feel like the books were always more exciting and i can’t tell if its because i haven’t found the right style yet as an adult reading, or if kids books specifically have much more creative descriptions for younger minds. could be both but either way, i
Rinny

Rinny

15 likes

Books to Read if You Liked Verity
All of us that read Verity by Colleen Hoover have been searching for something that will give us the same shock. Both of these Freida McFadden novels will be five star reads for you if you liked Verity! 1. The Housemaid - there is even two more books in this series! 2. The Wife Upstairs -
Khloemyers

Khloemyers

158 likes

A book recommendation graphic showing 'Broken Bonds' by J. Bree on the left and 'Fractured Fates' by Hannah Haze on the right, with an arrow indicating that if you liked the first, you'd like the second. Both covers feature fantasy art.
A book recommendation graphic showing 'The Night Circus' by Erin Morgenstern on the left and 'Caraval' by Stephanie Garber on the right, with an arrow indicating a similar reading experience. Both covers feature fantastical designs.
A book recommendation graphic showing 'Ready Player One' by Ernest Cline on the left and 'Warcross' by Marie Lu on the right, with an arrow suggesting a similar reading preference. Both covers feature distinct typographic designs.
If You Liked This, Read This
These are the same books but different font. If you read and liked broken bonds I think you’ll enjoy The Arrowheart Series. ✔️Fantasy romance ✔️Fated mates ✔️Why choose If you read The Night Circus I think you’ll enjoy Caraval. ✔️fantastical ✔️circus If you read Ready Player One I t
Araya Reads

Araya Reads

6 likes

A scenic waterfall cascades over rocks amidst autumn trees. Overlay text reads: 'If you liked this book, You'll LOVE this book' with heart-shaped hand emojis, introducing a series of book recommendations.
Against a sunset backdrop, two book covers are displayed: 'The Fault in Our Stars' by John Green and 'Me Before You' by Jojo Moyes. Text suggests: 'If you liked TFIOS.. Read Me Before You'.
In a grassy field with distant trees, two book covers are shown: 'The Girl on the Train' by Paula Hawkins and 'The Housemaid' by Freida McFadden. Text indicates: 'If you liked ^ Read ^'.
IF YOU LIKED X, READ Y 📚✨
ever read a good book and immediately missing it’s world building and looking for a good next year to fill that void? well that’s why you guys follow me, duh!! here are some books with similar vibes to some of your most popular favs!! #bookrecommendations #lemon8bookclub #lemon8challenge
Eli

Eli

29 likes

If you liked this series Read this series
abigailnoe2024

abigailnoe2024

3 likes

If you liked… read…
hey y’all! thought I’d give you all some recs based off of books I’ve read that have books that are very similar to them! I can’t wait to read some of these! #bookrecommendations #readingrecommendations #lemon8bookclub #lemon8partner #books
Eli

Eli

922 likes

See more