Books about abuse and romance A list of the greatest relationships with abuse and violence or abusive experiences in the past romance novels - filtered by steam level, subgenres, eras, tropes, hero/heroine types, settings, content warnings and more - mix and match content tropes to get book recommendations tailored to your preferences. Jul 26, 2025 · Looking for an unforgettable collection of powerful YA books about abuse and relationship violence? As an award-winning author and blogger about issue-driven YA fiction, I know how stories can take us to other worlds, allow us to see through the eyes of other characters, and develop empathy. One of the sad facts of life is that most people will experience some form of abuse in their lives. See full list on rtbookreviews. These stories explore the complexities of love in unconventional settings, delving into themes of passion, sacrifice, and redemption. A list of the greatest dark, arranged and forced marriage, relationships with abuse and violence or abusive experiences in the past romance novels - filtered by steam level, subgenres, eras, tropes, hero/heroine types, settings, content warnings and more - mix and match content tropes to get book recommendations tailored to your preferences. Reese, Binding 13 by Chloe Walsh, Archer's Voice by Mia Sheridan, and May 23, 2025 · These YA books explore the serious issue of domestic violence with nuance and care. g. They show us the strength of the human heart, the price of power, and the tough choices people make for love. Books containing these themes Feb 20, 2024 · The Ripped Bodice's 2018 State of Racial Diversity in Romance study found that for every 100 books published by the leading romance publishers in 2018, only 7. Click on the symbol to hide books with specific content such as particular genres or content warnings. MembersOnline • [deleted] Sep 15, 2023 · Photo from Amazon. Through various books, authors have explored this theme, delving into the complexities of abusive relationships and the transformative power of love and compassion. It makes us think that abuse can be okay. psychological, physical abuse, etc. But the reality of domestic abuse doesn’t always come with a savior. You are not alone. Should books that romanticize abuse, violence and trauma be supported? Jan 28, 2021 · A New York Times bestseller, EW. On page within the period of the main narrative- Blue Eyed Devil has on page violence and rape by the abuser, as well as financial, emotional and reproductive abuse, and isolation. As we review the Best Mafia Romance Books Nov 11, 2025 · Dark romance novels are famously known for their twisted, passionate, and deliciously gripping nature. McAvoy, American Savages by J. 92 books based on 338 votes: Reason to Breathe by Rebecca Donovan, The Boy Who Sneaks in My Bedroom Window by Kirsty Moseley, Easy by Tammara Webber, Hop Feb 17, 2024 · Are you searching for compelling narratives that shed light on the complex and devastating issue of domestic violence? Look no further than this curated list of the 20 best books on domestic violence fiction. Looking for recommendations for books similar to When There’s A Will (Lost Boys) by Jessie Walker or Wrath by Ella James. R. These stories often come with content warnings, morally gray characters and plots containing trauma and violence. Jan 23, 2024 · A specific genre of books dubbed “dark romance” has rapidly gained traction, and the content and effects of these books are, at the very least, concerning. Do you think some authors romanticize abuse in their books? What do you think about it? Let me know by leaving a comment. Feb 20, 2020 · YA Tackles the Tough Topics. Books shelved as abusive-husband: It Ends with Us by Colleen Hoover, Silver Thaw by Catherine Anderson, How Clarissa Burden Learned to Fly by Connie May Apr 7, 2016 · The way we romanticize abusive behavior is dangerous because it normalizes toxic relationships and domestic violence from a very early age. Dec 17, 2023 · If someone says, “romance books,” many people think of the Harlequin romance novels with dreamily airbrushed couples on the cover, or possibly a classic story like Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice. Check out our 2023 reading list and find your next favorite book! Books shelved as dark-romance-abuse: The Lost Chapter by Scarlett Edwards, The End is Near by Connor McCarten, Consumed by Deception by Rina Kent, Tempte A list of the greatest relationships with abuse and violence or abusive experiences in the past, stories featuring mental illness and disorders, mafia and the mob, organised crime and illegal gangs and enterprises romance novels - filtered by steam level, subgenres, eras, tropes, hero/heroine types, settings, content warnings and more - mix and match content tropes to get book recommendations Explore the best-selling and newly released romance abuse on Audible. Each story pulls us into a world filled with twists and turns, where love has to prove itself stronger than the dangers of mafia life. Nonfiction memoirs and books with a theme of domestic violence and/or child abuse Jan 23, 2024 · A specific genre of books dubbed “dark romance” has rapidly gained traction, and the content and effects of these books are, at the very least, concerning. Books shelved as abusive-relationships: It Ends with Us by Colleen Hoover, Safe Haven by Nicholas Sparks, Dreamland by Sarah Dessen, Eleanor & Park by Ra Dec 13, 2023 · Culture Dark Romance: Romanticizing Abuse or Fun Fiction BookTok’s newest found obession are dark romances and each story is full of spicy taboo plotlines. Nov 5, 2023 · Explore our selection of the best 20 books about abusive husbands. Reply reply romance-bot • Under Her Skin by Adriana Anders Rating: 3. 151 books based on 181 votes: Consequences by Aleatha Romig, Beautiful Disaster by Jamie McGuire, Captive in the Dark by C. Discover the best romance authors writing relationships with abuse and violence or abusive experiences in the past stories. TikTok’s proclaimed “BookTok” has proven to produce and popularize hundreds of novels in a variety of genres and topics. Examples of books: {Impact by Haley Jennar} Books shelved as dark-abuse-kidnapping-romance: The Untouchables by J. Happy Endings guaranteed. Not romance novels but they do have an M/M romance as one of the main plot points and the romantic interest helps the main character deal with his trauma. 7 were written by people of color. As a self proclaimed book enthusiast, I was immediately enticed upon discovering an author named Colleen Hoover, whom many were calling ‘The Modern Day Jane Austen 62 books based on 38 votes: Skin Deep by S. What makes this genre so loved? Mar 29, 2022 · Many compelling, well-written narratives are centered on addiction or otherwise feature teen characters struggling with substance abuse. 'It Ends with Us' by Colleen Hoover is a prime example—it’s one of those books that stays with you long after you finish it. MembersOnline • admiralamy Jan 25, 2007 · So, members of the esteemed Bitchery – what do you think? Is there a difference in attitude and characterization between heroines who are victims of parental abuse and heroes? Does the source, father or mother, make a difference? And what books of hella-abuse from parental-fucked-uppedness do you recall? Nov 13, 2023 · Abuse can take many forms: verbal, emotional, physical, sexual. Let's follow them through their struggle to overcome the past or present abuse (physical, emotional, psychological, verbal or sexual) or the traumatic experiences that caused long-lasting damages upon their lives. Adriana works with victims of domestic violence, and she was worried that most romances don’t accurately portray abusive relationships. It’s a winner which, once again, puts teens in a situation that was supposed to be safe and happy but becomes twisted and terrifying. Aug 21, 2024 · In dark romance books, the terms DubCon and NonCon are used to describe dubious consensual and non-consensual sexual relationships between characters. Whether fiction or nonfiction, these books offer a glimpse into the damaged and delicate past, the struggle to overcome it, and the many paths toward transformation and renewal. Aug 2, 2024 · The best dark and twisted romance books featuring cruel heroes and suffering heroines in a contemporary setting. Jul 3, 2025 · I've read a lot of romance novels that delve into darker themes, and when it comes to authors who handle abuse with sensitivity while still crafting compelling love stories, Colleen Hoover immediately comes to mind. From anti-heroes to enemies-to-lovers, and all of the other book tropes we know and love r/RomanceBooks is a discussion sub for readers of romance novels. I’ve read undercurrent and safe haven. The abuse could be physical, sexual, or psychological. I don't really care whether it's by an ex or her family, or anything. It’s because Jan 9, 2025 · Mafia romance books are where danger meets passion, and love stories unfold in the most unexpected places. So I've been going through some Stuff, and I'm looking for some good ol' catharsis in the form of books that handle the topic of reckoning with the impact of an abusive childhood as an adult/older teen, and if possible, coming out the other side better. Many creators on the platform promote dark romance novels by describing vulgar scenes in the hopes that people will interact with the post and read the book themselves. Vaughn, Reclaiming Love by V. Explore our list of Physical and emotional abuse->Teen fiction Books at Barnes & Noble®. Jones, Consequences by Aleatha Romig, Me Before You by Jojo Moyes, a 396 books based on 1190 votes: Captive in the Dark by C. The themes in dark romance books can be quite heavy, tackling issues such as abuse, dubious sexual encounters and trauma. Dec 31, 2023 · Our top 20 Abusive Relationships books list is your guide to the best reads. {Under Her Skin by Adriana Anders} has this. )? The works don't necessarily have to include DV as the main subject or have the main Sep 3, 2024 · The problem? It was marketed as a romance. These books - fiction or non-fiction - deal with abuse in all its forms. FMC has escaped a horribly abusive relationship and the MMC is wonderful and kind to her despite appearing standoffish and scary to everyone in town. Jul 21, 2017 · 5 YA Novels About Dating Violence for Teens and Adults As these stories reveal, dating abuse doesn't always leave behind bruises Romance novels (NA/adult) about people with substance use disorders (including alcohol) who are sober for much or all of the book. Check out our 2023 reading list and find your next favorite book! Jul 4, 2025 · abuse romance books are definitely having a moment on Goodreads, and I’ve been diving deep into some of the most talked-about titles. Dirty - Belle Aurora Raze - Tillie Cole GHOST - A. Ward, Souls Unfractured by Tillie Cole, Raze by Tillie Cole, Reap b Lists about: Emotion Overload, Inspiring Books For All Ages, Dark, twisted, abusive romance | 2013-2015, Male Characters You Would Run From If They Tried Jun 5, 2013 · 930 books based on 849 votes: Annie's Song by Catherine Anderson, Lover Awakened by J. It can occur in the workplace, at home, in public, or in arbitrary and unfamiliar places. Which romance heroes do you want to wrap up in your arms and give lots of love to help them heal their trauma? I'm looking for books that have sexual or physical abuse, I prefer the POV from both characters but some of the best books I've read have mainly been from the heroines POV, steam, a patient H who really helps the h heal through her trauma and is protective and loving. Dec 26, 2023 · If you’re looking for powerful and gripping stories that shed light on the sensitive issue of domestic abuse, then look no further. Jul 4, 2025 · Abuse romance books and dark romance might seem similar at first glance, but they dive into very different emotional territories. CW this book features incest, sexual abuse, physical abuse, family alienation, forced isolation, forced captivity, attempted suicide, verbal abuse,bodily harm, forced branding and piercing, abandonment, attempted filicide and drug use. Additionally These books deal with finding love after the horrors of abuse. Have you read Speak? Books shelved as dom-sub-romance: Praise by Sara Cate, Brie Pleases Her New Master by Red Phoenix, Burn by Maya Banks, Fever by Maya Banks, and Rush by M Oct 18, 2025 · Dark mafia romance Dark mafia romance books often feature complex and troubled main characters with often dubious motives and relationships that are intense, passionate, and sometimes destructive. Reaper’s Property and Reaper’s Legacy have on page and historical violence by the abuser (one of each per book, IIRC), Reaper’s Legacy describes historical SA/rape by the abuser, as well as financial and So I'm looking for books where the h is or was abused. Wrecked by Heather Of course common and recurring themes in classic literature often include all forms of love and sex (and rape), but are there any pieces of classic literature (including poetry and plays) that allude to or refer to other, more broadly defined domestic violence (e. Added bonus if it’s a story set amongst friends who share in grief similar to Lost Boys. Thanks! A list of the greatest dark, relationships with abuse and violence or abusive experiences in the past, mafia and the mob, organised crime and illegal gangs and enterprises romance novels - filtered by steam level, subgenres, eras, tropes, hero/heroine types, settings, content warnings and more - mix and match content tropes to get book recommendations tailored to your preferences. A book’s total score is based on multiple factors, including the number of people who have voted for it and how highly those voters ranked the book. The rescue must have occurred within the book. The effect this can have on us can't be overstated. A list of romance heroes who have been victims of abuse (physical, sexual, emotional, verbal), past or present, that has left them scarred inside and/or out. Oct 25, 2023 · Explore our selection of the best 20 books about abuse and trauma. New to Audible? Try Audible free. Zavarelli Twist Me - Anna Books featuring extremely possessive, obsessed, and jealous heroes follow male protagonists who exhibit intense and sometimes overbearing emotions toward the heroines. Books containing this content are typically meant to be advertised to adults, but with the rise of social media, the age of readers Jan 31, 2025 · BookTok, a TikTok community that promotes books, expands the reach of dark romance, especially to younger audiences. TW for on page descriptions of the domestic abuse. com: abused heroine romance books1-48 of over 1,000 results for "abused heroine romance books" Aug 2, 2024 · The best dark and twisted romance books featuring cruel heroes and suffering heroines in a contemporary setting. The Hero of the book is beyond angry when he finds out what the Heroine’s ex did to her. They all contain emotional abuse from parents. V. Sep 27, 2018 · Livia volunteered to take the brunt of their abuse to spare her sister, and according to our reviewer, “These sections are hard to read, but never gratuitous, and, like the whole book, feel Mar 11, 2025 · A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara In 2015, Hanya Yanagihara’s A Little Life became a publishing sensation, evolving from a sleeper hit into one of the most buzzed-about titles of the year. Let’s dive into the world of books where a guy saves a girl from abuse and examine the impact of these stories on readers. A list of the greatest werewolf and were-shifter, relationships with abuse and violence or abusive experiences in the past romance novels - filtered by steam level, subgenres, eras, tropes, hero/heroine types, settings, content warnings and more - mix and match content tropes to get book recommendations tailored to your preferences. When treated fictionally, one sees the horrible abuse problem on a visceral, dramatic le… The Tarot Sequence by KD Edwards deals with this. Selling millions of copies and amassing a devoted online following, the novel’s success is all the more remarkable, given it is an often harrowing 700-page examination of deep trauma and enduring abuse Feb 18, 2019 · Reading it felt like a very inexpensive, yet very effective therapy session: The books was neutral third party that helped me work through my feelings, reassured me that they were valid, and Dec 21, 2024 · Ever wonder why certain books get banned? Here are 25 banned books that pushed boundaries and changed the way we see the world. I love lyrical novels and books that explore characters’ interiority, and I’m interested in how, generally speaking, ‘toxic’ and ‘abusive’ relationships have become Apr 19, 2024 · Dark romance is defined as a subgenre of romance novels with darker themes and mature content. A list of the greatest relationships with abuse and violence or abusive experiences in the past, arranged and forced marriage, dark romance novels - filtered by steam level, subgenres, eras, tropes, hero/heroine types, settings, content warnings and more - mix and match content tropes to get book recommendations tailored to your preferences. Jul 3, 2025 · Romance novels that include abuse as a theme often get high ratings because they resonate deeply with readers who appreciate emotional complexity. Feb 3, 2021 · Here we have an assortment of literature, ranging from deeply personal memoirs to nail-biting thrillers to coming-of-age stories to historical novels. Jan 29, 2024 · Books that have happy endings via the “prince saves damsel in distress” plot might romanticize the path of someone experiencing abuse. If you haven’t read either, if there’s a m/m romance where the MCs experienced trauma, abuse or attempts self-harm (addiction, suicide), please recommend. I've compiled a list of 18 Must-Read YA books that address sexual assault and rape culture. Get your order fast and stress free with our pick-up in store options. Expand your library and your mind today Oct 17, 2024 · The book is marketed as a romance novel, but it delves into the complexities of abusive relationships, offering readers a journey toward empowerment and healing. Such storylines can have a place in storytelling. It's not unusual . Books shelved as abusive-romance: It Ends with Us by Colleen Hoover, Debt by Nina G. Dark romance, though it is all fiction and people are entitled to like what they like, can be harmful to younger audiences. Are you being overprotective of her/him? When we control other people, it’s not because we control them. Nov 5, 2025 · We were tasked to compile a list of the best romance books featuring crazy possessive and jealous protagonists who are madly in love with the heroine. Roberts, Raw by Belle Aurora, Tears of Tess by Pepper Winters, Consequences by Aleatha Romig, Aug 18, 2022 · / Reader Recommendations – Books that feature abused heroines (whether she is on the run, or still with her abuser)… Apr 5, 2019 · This list of books about abusive relationships is a collection of both fiction and nonfiction books that examine different types of abuse. We’ve compiled a list of the 20 best books about domestic abuse fiction that will captivate and educate readers. Aug 13, 2017 · 145 books based on 31 votes: It Ain't Me, Babe by Tillie Cole, Lover Awakened by J. r/RomanceBooks is a discussion sub for readers of romance novels. A list of the greatest arranged and forced marriage, relationships with abuse and violence or abusive experiences in the past romance novels - filtered by steam level, subgenres, eras, tropes, hero/heroine types, settings, content warnings and more - mix and match content tropes to get book recommendations tailored to your preferences. This type of character is deeply protective, sometimes to the point of being controlling or domineering. I’d like to avoid on screen rape. Abuse romance often focuses on relationships where one partner is emotionally or physically abusive, and the story might romanticize or justify this behavior, which can be problematic. Nov 7, 2024 · We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. 'It Ends with Us' by Colleen Hoover is a standout, with its emotional depth and realistic portrayal of an abusive relationship. I like to write and read about particularly gender power dynamics, and how those come to play in domestic situations. , Gwon Gyeoeul, SUOL, Jen Lyon, Rawnie Sabor, Emily Klepp and many more Hey there, I'm looking for (werewolf) books where there's an fmc (mostly omega) who's getting abused by her pack and then rescued by an alpha. J. ” I would bet that the image of romance is not stalking, physical violence or a power imbalance between romantic partners. Her book 'It Ends with Us' tackles domestic abuse in a raw, realistic way, showing the complexity of leaving such relationships. McAvoy, Ruthless People by J. Read on to discover the popular books that are inappropriately romanticized. These books are by and large about protagonists who were kicked out of their homes as teens and/or are estranged from their parents as adults. Unlike tales that romanticize abuse, Dark Romance emphasizes the importance of consent, agency, and the empowerment of its Tags: abuse, abused-women, abusive, abusive-husband, battered-wife, battering, domestic-abuse, domestic-violence, family-violence, fiction, husband, intimate-partner Please add your 4 stars and up romance books (contemporary or historical) where someone has been rescued from a dangerous situation. The way to open up people’s eyes towards these types of books and relationships is to simply state it out. These powerful stories delve into the intricacies of abusive relationships, highlighting the resilience of survivors and the importance of empathy and understanding. Roberts, Comfort Food by Ki Books shelved as trauma-romance: Wait for You by J. Booklist: Sexual Assault, Rape, and Dating Violence in Young Adult Fiction Looking for recommendations on romance books that have the female leaving an abusive spouse. Amazon. Abuse can leave us insecure, depressed, crippled with anxiety, or more. The books explore themes of captivity and abuse, BDSM and non-consent. From classic Teen books dealing with physical/emotional/psychological/verbal/sexual abuse, bullying, guns, gangs, dating violence, rape, etc. Recommended fiction books that include elements of abusive relationships experienced by characters. W. Home of the magic search button and endless book recommendations as well as discussions about tropes and characters, Author AMAs, book clubs, and more. Recommended books to read if you're experiencing domestic violence and abuse and are interested in people who have had the same experience. Ward, Easy by Tammara Webber, Devil in Winter by Lisa Kleypas, B Jan 16, 2024 · In the world of literature, Dark Romance revolves around consensual relationships amidst challenging and sometimes dark circumstances. The statistics on Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) in America are grim and unsettling. Lynn, Edge of Unbroken by J. Thank you! Edit to add that I would like the ex to make an appearance to add suspense/danger r/RomanceBooks is a discussion sub for readers of romance novels. Mar 11, 2015 · Romance novel where the hero or heroine was abused by their father as a child. McAvoy, Until J Apr 29, 2024 · 5 Popular Books With Disturbing Romanticization of Sexual Assault Sexual Assault is a difficult, but important topic to discuss. If you’re interested in reading more books that incorporate this important subject matter, we’ve rounded up a few of our favorites below. com These romance novels give survivors the happily-ever-afters they deserve with respectful and supportive partners. Start reading now. Violet Rhoades Content warning: Mentions of physical, emotional, and sexual abuse. Because of this, she's meek and unsure of herself, and she's frightened of the H at first, or at the very least very aware of a power imbalance/that he's too good for her. I’m a poet, novelist, and Senior Lecturer in Creative Writing at Teesside University in the UK. This might be super specific, but I’m really craving books where the heroine (or the hero, but I’d prefer it if it was the heroine) has gone through something traumatic and it affects the whole plot of the book. These books offer raw and honest portrayals of domestic abuse, exploring the complexities of relationships, the impact of abuse, and the resilience Explore Abuse audiobooks, podcasts, and original audio performances in Relationships on Audible. The descriptions of the abuse are difficult to read but the book has a happy ending. com Best YA Book of the Year, Buzzfeed Best YA Book of the Year, and Popcrush Best Young Adult Book of the Year, author Karen McManus is an established name in the genre. 75⭐️ out of 5⭐️ Steam: 4 out of 5 - Explicit open door Topics r/RomanceBooks is a discussion sub for readers of romance novels. However Vote/add books with a gay romance plot/subplot featuring abused and/or traumatized protagonists. Relates to adult or/and child abuse. Whether you're aabusive husbands enthusiast or looking to dive into this captivating subject, these books offer valuable insights and captivating stories. I'm not really looking for the bully to suddenly realize she's their fated mate but more like an outsider barging in and finding her abused and taking her away in outrage and stuff. Whether you're aabuse and trauma enthusiast or looking to dive into this captivating subject, these books offer valuable insights and captivating stories. Feb 11, 2025 · With the rise of social media reading communities comes the rise of dark romance, a subgenre that remains controversial and problematic due to its depiction of messy, twisted, and often morally questionable love stories. For instance, they can act as social commentary on rape and abuse, thereby providing reassurance and comfort to readers who may have experienced these circumstances in their own lives. Assume that, in this thread, if I say abuse I'm specifically talking about abuse against a child/teen by their parent/guardian. According to Marie Jaskulka shares the 5 best books on YA about overcoming abuse and assault. There's plenty of lists containing books about violence against women, but I've searched all over GR, and I haven't found a list that is specifically for books about sexual violence towards men. It makes us r/RomanceBooks is a discussion sub for readers of romance novels. Have you read any of these important stories? 7 Must-Read Books That Address Drug Addiction 1. For example Nina. L. A list of the greatest relationships with abuse and violence or abusive experiences in the past, arranged and forced marriage romance novels - filtered by steam level, subgenres, eras, tropes, hero/heroine types, settings, content warnings and more - mix and match content tropes to get book recommendations tailored to your preferences. Most popular contemporary abuse take-charge heroine romance books Use the menu below to combine as many topics as you like in order to fine-tune your search for the best contemporary abuse take-charge heroine romance book results. Sure, the novel contains romance, but marketing it as a “romance novel” reduces Bloom’s journey of growth and healing — the true message of the novel — to a Twilight -esque love triangle glamorizing abuse. Dec 13, 2022 · Having these books have such sensitive topics yet still be presented to people as a romance book where they want you to root for said abusive couple just adds to the harmful romanticization of abuse. McElfresh, Like a Sparrow Through the Heart by Aggy Bird, After Ben by Con Sep 9, 2018 · At RWA last July, I was at lunch with author Adriana Herrera and we started talking about a book I’d recently read where a heroine flees her abusive husband. Sep 27, 2019 · For anyone who has been the victim of sexual assault or harassment, I've picked out 15 #MeToo movement novels that add to the broader conversations being had in the news, in the courts, and in day Jul 17, 2017 · Novels featuring abusive men are painful to get through, but there is something to be said for reading them.
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