What to read next?

Oh my gosh, I totally get it! Finishing an addictively dark series like Shantel Tessier's LORDS or diving deep into the world of *The Ritual*, *Sinner*, *Carnage*, *Madness*, or The Sacrifice leaves you craving more. Her books have that unique blend of morally grey characters, intense plots, and a certain level of darkness that just hooks you. If you're like me and need your next fix of captivating dark romance, here are some recommendations that might just hit the spot! First up, if you loved the intense, almost obsessive nature of Shantel Tessier's heroes, you absolutely have to check out Pepper Winters. Her 'Monsters in the Dark' series, starting with *Tears of Tess*, is incredibly dark and delves into themes of captivity and survival with a very complex psychological edge. It’s not for the faint of heart, much like Tessier’s work, and features anti-heroes you can't help but be drawn to. I remember devouring these books in a single sitting, feeling all the emotions! Another author who delivers on the dark and twisted front is Rina Kent. Her 'Royal Elite' series, beginning with *Cruel King*, is perfect if you enjoy the high-stakes, sometimes bully-romance aspects often found in Tessier's stories. You'll find powerful, possessive male leads and heroines who are strong enough to challenge them. The drama, the secrets, the undeniable chemistry – it's all there, providing that delicious tension we crave. For a slightly different flavor of dark romance, but still with that intense, gripping feel, consider Coralee June's 'Fallen University' series. These often involve enemies-to-lovers tropes, secret societies, and a good dose of suspense. It's the kind of series that keeps you guessing and invested in the characters' fates, much like the intricate plots in books like *The Ritual*. The world-building is immersive, and the emotional rollercoasters are real! If you're into dark mythological retellings with a modern twist, Runyx's 'Dark Olympus' series, starting with *Gild*, could be your next obsession. While not directly a modern-day mafia or bully romance, it captures that morally ambiguous atmosphere and intense character dynamics that make Shantel Tessier's books so compelling. The heroes are powerful, flawed, and utterly captivating, navigating a dangerous world. Finally, for something that leans into the raw, gritty side of dark romance, K. Webster is a must-read. Her books don't shy away from uncomfortable themes and often feature anti-heroes who push boundaries. Titles like The Ravenhood Trilogy by Kate Stewart (though not as "dark" as Tessier, it has intense forbidden romance and suspense) or even some of Z. King's grittier works might appeal if you're looking for that deep, consuming love amidst chaos. Finding your next dark romance read after a series like LORDS or a standalone like The Ritual can be tough because few compare to that unique blend of dark intensity and emotional depth. But these authors consistently deliver stories that will keep you on the edge of your seat, craving more with every page. Happy reading, and let me know if you pick any of these up!