What I read last week:
Let’s talk about it-
I’m still figuring out what genres I like, however out of the four books I’ve had the time to read this month I haven’t read anything that I couldn’t finish so that’s a good sign.
These two have some spicy chapters that’s for sure but overall the storylines were easy to follow and they were easy reads.
Never king:
- check the warnings (it’s a little spicy, references mental health struggles)
- less than 200 pages, quick read (which I love)
—— if you are in for some nostalgia and was a fan of Peter Pan, tinker bell and that entire world this is for you but again only if you are ok with the spice. I think this is considered dark romance.
Priest:
- check the warningsssss so spicy and references mental health struggles and trauma
- pretty short, fast read
- so spicy 🌶️ like 👀
—— what I will say, the storyline is good but this is definitely one you wouldn’t want to read in public if you know you know. This is an at home read and some of the characters will make you mad lol. As much as it’s spicy I was seething with rage multiple times and actually talking to the book like a crazy person.
-> closing notes:
Overall I liked them both. I favored the never king definitely, I liked the fantasy vibes attached to it. I think after these two, I’m pretty sure I favor romantasy or dark romantasy over straight up romance.
What should I add to my tbr?
If you're delving into spicy romantasy, both Never King and Priest offer unique experiences worth exploring further. Never King, with its Peter Pan nostalgia and dark romance vibes, appeals to readers who enjoy fantasy elements mixed with complex emotions. The mental health references add depth to the characters, making it not just a quick read but a meaningful one. On the other hand, Priest takes you into a more intense, emotionally charged world where trauma and raw passion collide. This book’s spicy scenes and unpredictable characters can provoke strong reactions, making it a memorable stay-at-home read. From my own experience with similar books, the combination of fantasy and darker romance elements often creates a profound connection to the story. It’s refreshing to see modern narratives tackling mental health openly within romance and fantasy plots. Reading these books challenged me emotionally but kept me engaged throughout because the authors didn’t shy away from complexity. For new readers curious about romantasy or dark romance genres, I recommend starting with shorter books like these to gauge your preferences. Also, considering the warnings about content, it’s helpful to prepare for mature themes that some may find confronting. These stories can provide both escapism and a mirror to real emotional struggles. If you’re looking to expand your TBR list, consider exploring authors who blend romance with speculative fiction or dark themes, such as Mariana Zapata for slow-burn romance or Silvia Moreno-Garcia’s fantasy works which touch on darker elements subtly. Reflecting on these reads, I’m beginning to prefer romantasy over traditional romance, drawn by the richer world-building and emotional complexity they offer. Ultimately, choosing your next read depends on your mood and what emotional journey you want—whether a nostalgic fantasy trip or a spicy, gritty romance. Both Never King and Priest provide quick, impactful stories that are easy to finish but leave lasting impressions.