Top 35 Fantasy Books with Enemies to Lovers Trope

The Serpent and the Wings of Night

By Carissa Broadbent

In a world where humans and vampires coexist, survival is all about following three crucial rules: never trust, never yield, and always protect your heart. Oraya, the adopted human daughter of the Nightborn vampire king, fights for her place in a realm that seeks to destroy her. Her best shot at overcoming the odds is to enter the Kejari, a legendary tournament hosted by none other than the goddess of death.

As Oraya competes, she is forced to form an alliance with Raihn, a dangerous and mysterious rival, and their attraction grows into a blossoming but dangerous romance. The slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers dynamic between Oraya and Raihn is expertly crafted, filled with banter, tension, and a hint of spice.

A Court of Thorns and Roses Series

By Sarah J. Maas

The A Court of Thorns and Roses series explores the theme of enemies-to-lovers romance throughout the storylines. The series follows Feyre, a human huntress forced to live among the faeries as punishment for killing one of their kind. Feyre finds herself drawn to Tamlin, the High Lord of the Spring Court, reminiscent of Beauty and the Beast.

As the series progresses, Feyre’s relationships with other characters develop, and the theme of enemies-to-lovers romance is explored in different ways. The complex relationships between the characters are a central focus of the books, and the romance is a thrilling and heart-pounding aspect of the series. Maas’s world-building, storytelling, and character development create a richly imagined world filled with danger, political intrigue, and explosive romance.

Children of Blood and Bone

By Tomi Adeyemi

In Tomi Adeyemi’s debut novel, Children of Blood and Bone, the book follows the story of Zélie, a young woman whose mother was killed and whose magic was taken away under the orders of a ruthless king. With the help of a rogue princess named Amari, Zélie sets out to bring back magic and strike against the monarchy, all while being pursued by the crown prince, Inan, who is determined to eradicate magic for good.

As Zélie and Inan cross paths, their relationship is initially fraught with tension and hostility as they see each other through the biases of their life experiences. However, as they spend more time together, they are forced to confront and challenge their preconceptions. This emotional turmoil plays out in their interactions as they wrestle with their conflicting worldviews and potential feelings for one another.

An Ember in the Ashes Series

By Sabaa Tahir

An Ember in the Ashes is the first book in Sabaa Tahir’s epic fantasy series, and it’s a thrilling read. The book alternates between the perspectives of Laia, an enslaved person who must spy on the ruthless Empire to save her brother, and Elias, a lethal soldier destined to become one of the Empire’s most feared warriors.

Laia must navigate the treacherous world of the Empire as she works to uncover the secrets of the regime, all while keeping her true identity hidden. On the other hand, Elias must grapple with his doubts and fears about his role in the oppressive Empire and his growing attraction to Laia. Despite the danger surrounding them, their attraction grows stronger, leading to a complex and captivating exploration of the enemies-to-lovers dynamic.

From Blood and Ash

By Jennifer L. Armentrout

Poppy is the chosen Maiden, destined to save her kingdom from an evil god. However, as the Maiden, she is forbidden from interacting with anyone outside her strict royal duties. Poppy has grown up believing that the Ascended are powerful beings to be revered, but as she begins to see the truth behind the lies, she starts to question everything she has been taught.

When Poppy and the mysterious guard, Hawke, cross paths, their relationship is marked by tension and hostility. While Hawke is tasked with protecting Poppy, she sees him as an enemy preventing her from discovering the truth about her world. Despite their differences and initial animosity, the two are forced to work together and slowly begin to unravel the secrets of the kingdom.

Savage Lands

By Stacey Marie Brown

Age rating: 18+

In a society where the prejudice between humans and fae simmers with violence and hatred, Brexley finds herself thrown into the notorious Halalhaz, the House of Death. Here, she meets the vicious legend Warwick Farkas, whose brutal and lethal reputation precedes him. The rule of hierarchy places humans at the bottom, and to survive, Brexley must make alliances with the Fae. However, the intense draw between Brexley and Warcik might cost her everything, including her life.

The Savage Lands series is a particularly spicy adult romance that perfectly captures the enemies-to-lovers trope, filled with explosive chemistry. This multibook slow-burn romance is as intense as it is addictive, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. This is a spicy read, perfect for fans of the genre, and the tension-filled storytelling will have readers turning the pages late into the night.​

These Violent Delights

By Chloe Gong

These Violent Delights is a thrilling novel of love and violence in a city overrun by two rival gangs. Juliette Cai, heir of the Scarlet Gang, returns to the city to take on the White Flowers, their enemies for generations. At the center of this power struggle is Roma Montagov, Juliette’s first love and first betrayer, who leads the White Flowers.

As the violence between the two gangs escalates, a strange madness infects their members, causing them to claw their own throats. With the city on the brink of destruction, Juliette and Roma must put aside their differences and work together to stop the chaos and find the source of the madness. As they navigate the dangerous streets and fight to survive, their complicated history and unresolved feelings for each other make their alliance all the more challenging.

A Promise of Fire

By Amanda Bouchet

In the first book of the Kingmaker Chronicles, A Promise of Fire, we meet Cat, a powerful sorceress hiding in plain sight as a circus performer. When the Alpha Sinta clan comes to capture her, she is forced to reveal her true identity as a Kingmaker, a rare individual with the power to control the elements and change the course of history.

Cat is taken captive by Griffin, the powerful warlord and ruler of the clan, who needs her abilities to secure his place on the throne. But Cat is determined to escape and keep her powers hidden. As she fights against her captors, she can’t deny the intense chemistry between her and Griffin. Their slow-burn enemies-to-lovers romance is deliciously irresistible, and the action and intrigue of the story will keep you turning the pages.

Dance of Thieves

By Mary E. Pearson

For those wondering, “Is Dance of Thieves enemies to lovers?”, the answer is a resounding yes! Dance of Thieves follows the story of Kazi, a former street thief sent by the queen to investigate transgressions against the new settlements, and Jase, the new leader of the Ballenger empire, a notorious outlaw family. When Kazi is sent on a mission to capture a criminal, her path crosses with Jase, and they are soon kidnapped and forced to work together to survive.

The tension between them is palpable as they play a cat-and-mouse game, extracting information from each other for their own missions while secretly getting to know each other intimately. Kazi and Jase’s loyalties and trust are tested as they journey together. Still, their growing feelings for each other cannot be denied. Mary E. Pearson delivers a compelling enemies-to-lovers romance that is masterfully interwoven with political intrigue, deception, and double-crossing.

Fourth Wing 

By Rebecca Yarros

Fourth Wing takes us into the life of Violet Sorrengail, a twenty-year-old woman who was supposed to live a quiet life surrounded by books in the Scribe Quadrant. However, her hard-as-nails mother, the commanding general, had different plans. Despite her petite size and fragile physique, Violet must fight to survive in the brutal college of war. Her only hope? To bond with a dragon, a deadly trial that not all survive.

Yet, the trajectory of her life dramatically pivots with the arrival of Xaden Riorson, the most intimidating wing leader. Xaden, with a chilling ruthlessness, bears a grudge against Violet for her mother’s past deeds. The air between them crackles with tension, creating a tapestry of emotions and dramatic twists that keep you hooked page after page.

The Cruel Prince

By Holly Black

Jude is a mortal girl who has been raised in the treacherous world of Faerie by the cruel and cunning High King. When Jude becomes embroiled in a dangerous game of power and politics, she’s determined to prove herself as cunning and ruthless as the faeries that surround her. However, she soon discovers that Prince Cardan, the youngest and wickedest son of the High King, stands in her way, and their mutual hatred threatens to undo her carefully laid plans.

The tension between Jude and Cardan is palpable from the very beginning. Their initial back-and-forth banter is filled with animosity and spite, making the journey of their relationship feels genuine and believable. As the story progresses, we see glimpses of vulnerability and unspoken emotions that slowly break down the barriers between them. This gradual shift from enemies to something more is not only captivating but also stays true to the characters’ personalities, allowing them to maintain their essence as they grow closer.

Six Crimson Cranes

By Elizabeth Lim

Shiori, the banished princess of Kiata, is cursed by her stepmother to have her six brothers turned into cranes. With her voice bound to the curse, Shiori must navigate a dangerous world to break the enchantment and save her brothers. Along the way, she encounters a mysterious young man named Tatsuo, who hides secrets of his own and seems to be the key to unraveling the curse.

As Shiori and Tatsuo are forced to work together to save her brothers and the kingdom, their initial mistrust and animosity slowly transform into a deep, genuine connection. Elizabeth Lim expertly weaves a captivating story that explores the complexities of love, loyalty, and trust, drawing readers into the beautiful, yet dangerous world of Six Crimson Cranes.

Once Upon a Broken Heart

By Stephanie Garber

Evangeline Fox’s world is shattered when her fiancé, Luc, breaks off their engagement to marry someone else. Desperate to reclaim her lost love, Evangeline strikes a bargain with the Prince of Hearts, a dangerous and enigmatic figure who has the power to change people’s fates. As Evangeline becomes entangled in the Prince’s schemes, she discovers that the price of her heart’s desire may be more than she bargained for.

Once Upon a Broken Heart is a fun enemies-to-lovers fantasy book that transports readers to a world of magic, betrayal, and unexpected romance. The chemistry between Evangeline and the Prince of Hearts is undeniable, and their journey from adversaries to something more is thrilling. With its captivating characters and lush, enchanting world-building, this book will leave readers eager for more.

Six of Crows

By Leigh Bardugo

Set in the gritty, fantastical world of Ketterdam, Six of Crows follows a group of six outcasts led by the cunning criminal mastermind, Kaz Brekker. Tasked with pulling off an impossible heist, the group must work together to infiltrate the impenetrable Ice Court and retrieve a valuable prisoner. Among the team members are the fierce spy Inej and the sharpshooter Jesper, who find themselves drawn to each other despite their differences and the danger that surrounds them.

This captivating novel effortlessly weaves together tender romantic moments and a riveting main plot. The slow-burning love that blossoms between the characters feels utterly genuine and heartening, all while complementing the story’s central themes. What’s more, the book thoughtfully celebrates diversity with a colorful tapestry of characters, representing a variety of backgrounds, races, and orientations, as well as offering powerful portrayals of disability and trauma.

The Wrath & The Dawn

By Renée Ahdieh

Shahrzad is a brave young woman who volunteers to marry the murderous king Khalid, determined to avenge her best friend’s death at his hands. Each night, Shahrzad spins tales to keep the king’s interest and delay her execution, while secretly plotting her revenge. However, as she uncovers the truth about the king’s actions and his haunted past, Shahrzad finds herself falling for the very man she intended to destroy.

The initial animosity between the two characters is palpable, as Shazi seeks revenge for her friend’s death and Khalid harbors dark secrets of his own. Yet, as they gradually learn to understand and trust one another, their complex emotions begin to intertwine, creating an enthralling dance between love and hate. This slow-burning romance allows for genuine character development and emotional depth, as both Shahrzad and Khalid face their own internal struggles and come to terms with their past actions.

To Kill a Kingdom

By Alexandra Christo

In To Kill a Kingdom, we meet Lira, a lethal siren and the feared daughter of the Sea Queen, who is cursed to transform into a human after she kills the wrong prince. Meanwhile, Prince Elian, a notorious siren hunter, is on a quest to eradicate the sirens that terrorize the seas. When their paths collide, they must navigate their deep-seated hatred for one another, as well as their own desires and ambitions, to achieve their goals.

The tension between Lira and Elian is electric, as their initial enmity slowly evolves into a complex and passionate bond. As they struggle to reconcile their feelings for each other with their dangerous, high-stakes mission, the world around them becomes more treacherous than ever before. To Kill a Kingdom is a dark, enthralling tale that fans of enemies-to-lovers fantasy will adore.

Serpent & Dove

By Shelby Mahurin

Serpent & Dove is an exciting book about a young witch named Louise le Blanc who has left her coven and given up magic to live in the city of Cesarine. In this city, witches like Lou are hunted, feared, and burned. Reid Diggory, a witch hunter dedicated to the Church, has always believed that witches should not be allowed to live. However, fate brings Lou and Reid together, and they find themselves forced into marriage.

Their unexpected marriage becomes a turning point in Lou and Reid’s lives, as they spend more time together and begin to understand one another’s backgrounds, beliefs, and motivations. This shared understanding allows them to let their guards down, and slowly, their deep-rooted hostility transforms into a powerful connection.

The Bridge Kingdom

By Danielle L. Jensen

Lara is a skilled spy and assassin who has been trained since childhood to marry the king of a rival kingdom and bring about its destruction from within. However, when she arrives at her new home, she quickly discovers that her mission may not be as clear-cut as she thought. As she grows closer to her enemy husband, King Aren, Lara is torn between her duty to her people and her growing feelings for the man she was meant to destroy.

The Bridge Kingdom masterfully explores the enemies-to-lovers trope, as Lara and Aren navigate their intricate web of deception, betrayal, and hidden desires. As they grow to understand one another and confront the truth about their respective kingdoms, their initial animosity blossoms into a deep, undeniable connection. This book expertly combines political intrigue, thrilling action, and a passionate love story to create an unforgettable reading experience.

Pestilence

By Laura Thalassa

One of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, Pestilence, has arrived on Earth to spread disease and suffering. Sara Burns, a determined firefighter, sets out to end Pestilence’s reign of terror but ends up being captured by the immortal being instead. As they journey together, Sara is torn between her mission to protect humanity and her unexpected attraction to the very creature responsible for the world’s devastation.

The relationship between Sara and Pestilence evolves from hatred and fear to understanding and passion, as they’re forced to confront their own beliefs and desires. Pestilence is a thrilling and unique take on the enemies-to-lovers trope, exploring the complexities of love, loyalty, and morality.

Kingdom of the Wicked

By Kerri Maniscalco

Emilia is a young witch who is devastated by the brutal murder of her twin sister. Desperate for vengeance, she summons a demon prince named Wrath to help her find the killer. As Emilia and Wrath delve into the dangerous world of dark magic and deadly secrets, they form an uneasy alliance and find themselves drawn to one another, despite their mutual mistrust.

Emilia and Wrath’s relationship is fraught with tension and mistrust, yet their undeniable attraction adds an extra layer of suspense and complexity to their partnership. As they navigate the treacherous world of witches, demons, and ancient curses, their journey from enemies to something more is both thrilling and heart-wrenching.

A Fate of Wrath & Flame

By K.A. Tucker

This fantasy novel tells the story of Romeria, a gifted thief who is whisked away to a world teetering on the brink of war. Tasked with stealing a stone from a sacred garden, Romeria assumes the identity of a captured princess, betrothed to the dashing King Zander. As they work together to uncover a sinister plot, their initial animosity simmers into a slow-burning, irresistible romance.

At first, Zander despises Romeria, believing her to be the same princess responsible for heinous crimes against his kingdom. However, as they spend time together, their attraction grows, leading to a beautifully slow-burning romance that is complicated by Romeria’s secret identity and the contrasts between their worlds.

Captive Prince

By C.S. Pacat

Prince Damen, heir to the throne of Akielos, is betrayed by his half-brother and sold into slavery to their rival kingdom, Vere. There, he becomes the captive of the cunning and ruthless Prince Laurent. As the two princes navigate the treacherous world of court politics and deadly intrigues, they are forced to work together to survive and reclaim their respective thrones.

As Damen and Laurent’s initial hatred evolve into a deep and intricate bond, readers are drawn into their struggle to navigate their conflicting loyalties and desires. With its rich world-building, compelling characters, and slow-burn romance, Captive Prince is an unforgettable read that will leave you eager for the next installment in the series.

Red Queen

By Victoria Aveyard

In a world where people are separated by their blood type, the mighty and magical Silvers rule over the regular and powerless Reds. Mare Barrow, a Red girl from a poor family, suddenly finds herself in the midst of the Silver society when an unexpected event uncovers her own secret powers. As Mare navigates the treacherous, politically charged world of the Silvers, she’s forced to masquerade as a long-lost Silver princess to maintain her cover. During her journey, she gets involved in a rebellion aiming to break the chains of inequality and faces life-changing choices that test her loyalty and emotions.

As Mare navigates the Silver court, she forms complex relationships with two royal brothers – Cal, the heir to the throne, and Maven, the cunning younger sibling. Mare and the princes experience a mix of shared goals and opposing loyalties. The push and pull between Mare and each brother create an intense, unpredictable dynamic that keeps readers guessing.

Angelfall

By Susan Ee

Angels have brought about the apocalypse, leaving the world in chaos and despair. Seventeen-year-old Penryn Young is desperate to find her kidnapped sister when she reluctantly forms an alliance with the fallen angel, Raffe, who has been betrayed by his own kind. As they journey together through the post-apocalyptic landscape, they face harrowing challenges and deadly enemies, all while grappling with their growing attraction to one another.

Angelfall is a fast-paced and thrilling enemies-to-lovers story set against the backdrop of a haunting, dystopian world. Penryn and Raffe’s initial mistrust and enmity gradually give way to understanding and desire, as they come to rely on one another for survival. This book combines action, romance, and suspense, resulting in a gripping book that will leave readers eager to continue the series.

Sky in the Deep

By Adrienne Young

Eelyn, a fierce warrior from the Aska clan, is shocked to find her believed-dead brother fighting alongside the enemy Riki clan. Desperate for answers, she’s captured and forced to live among her rivals. There, she meets Fiske, a Riki warrior who challenges her beliefs and her heart. As Eelyn and Fiske navigate the complex world of clan rivalries and loyalties, they begin to form an unexpected and passionate connection.

Sky in the Deep excels as an enemies-to-lovers story because it delves deep into the emotional journey of two individuals who must confront their deeply ingrained prejudices and preconceived notions. The intensity of their emotions and the obstacles they face in their relationship heighten the stakes and make their love story all the more compelling.

Daughter of the Pirate King

By Tricia Levenseller

Fierce and cunning Alosa, the daughter of the infamous Pirate King, deliberately allows herself to be captured by a rival pirate crew in order to locate a hidden map that leads to a legendary treasure. As she schemes and fights her way through the ranks, Alosa becomes increasingly entangled with the handsome first mate, Riden. Despite their opposing allegiances, the two find it increasingly difficult to resist the undeniable attraction between them.

Alosa and Riden’s initial rivalry and distrust evolve into a passionate and thrilling connection as they navigate the dangerous world of pirates and hidden treasures. This fast-paced and engaging tale will delight readers who enjoy strong female protagonists, high-seas adventure, and a slow-burn romance that keeps you on the edge of your seat.

Shatter Me

By Tahereh Mafi

Juliette is a young woman with a lethal touch that has left her isolated and feared. Imprisoned by a cruel government for her dangerous ability, Juliette’s life changes when she’s assigned a cellmate, the alluring Warner. As Juliette becomes more involved in Warner’s world, she discovers that the line between friend and foe is more blurred than she initially believed. As their relationship deepens, Juliette must confront the truth about her powers, her past, and her feelings for Warner.

Shatter Me is a powerful enemies-to-lovers story set in a dystopian world. Shatter Me combines a thrilling and emotional romance with a gripping story of self-discovery and survival, making it a must-read for fans of the enemies-to-lovers trope.

Halfway to the Grave

By Jeaniene Frost

Half-vampire Catherine Crawfield is on a mission to take down the undead, hoping to find her vampire father who ruined her mother’s life. When she is captured by Bones, a vampire bounty hunter, they form an unexpected partnership. Cat agrees to train with Bones, honing her skills in exchange for help in finding her father. As they navigate a dangerous world filled with killers, the two must decide where their loyalties lie, with Cat discovering that not all vampires are as evil as she once believed.

Cat and Bones are compelling characters with a dynamic that is both intriguing and believable. Their witty banter adds a layer of depth to their relationship, allowing readers to witness the gradual shift from enemies to a budding romance. The book explores the complexities of love and trust, as Cat questions her lifelong beliefs about vampires and discovers that the world is not as black and white as she once thought.

King of Battle and Blood

By Scarlett St. Clair

Isolde de Lara finds herself in a dangerous marriage to the ruthless vampire king, Adrian Aleksandr Vasiliev. Forced into this union to end a long-standing war, Isolde soon realizes that there’s more to Adrian than meets the eye. As she navigates the perilous vampire court, she must confront her own deepest fears and desires, ultimately leading to a shocking discovery that will change her world forever.

The author weaves together the threads of political intrigue, forbidden romance, and personal growth, creating a mesmerizing dance between two seemingly irreconcilable characters. As they navigate the treacherous politics of the vampire court, their growing bond becomes a source of strength, allowing them to challenge their preconceived notions of each other and uncover the hidden layers beneath their icy facades.

Carry on

By Rainbow Rowell

In a magical world reminiscent of Harry Potter, Simon Snow is the worst Chosen One in history as he struggles with his magical abilities and faces a dangerous enemy called the Insidious Humdrum. Simon’s roommate and nemesis, Baz, is a vampire who initially seems to be his polar opposite. As the story unfolds, their rivalry transforms into a complicated romance.

The tension between Simon and Baz is skillfully balanced with moments of vulnerability and understanding, allowing readers to witness the slow dismantling of the barriers they’ve built around themselves. The author, Rainbow Rowell, delves into the complexities of their relationship, offering a fascinating examination of how two sworn enemies can find common ground. This gradual transformation is enhanced by the novel’s rich, imaginative world and engaging storytelling, making it a standout enemies-to-lovers book.

The Shadows Between Us

By Tricia Levenseller

Alessandra is determined to win the heart of the Shadow King, Kallias, and seize his kingdom for herself. To do so, she must navigate the treacherous court, gain the king’s trust, and eliminate any rivals who stand in her way. However, as Alessandra and Kallias grow closer, they find themselves drawn to each other for reasons they never expected.

As their feelings deepen, Alessandra and Kallias must confront the darkness within themselves and decide what they’re willing to sacrifice for love. This is a deliciously dark and seductive enemies-to-lovers book that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Alessandra and Kallias’ dangerous game of deception and desire creates an intoxicating and suspenseful romance.

A Curse So Dark & Lonely

By Brigid Kemmerer

A Curse So Dark & Lonely is a captivating retelling of the classic Beauty and the Beast fairy tale. It follows the story of Harper, a young woman from modern-day Washington, D.C., who is transported to the enchanted realm of Emberfall. There, she meets Rhen, the cursed prince who must find love to break the spell that has turned him into a beast. As Harper and Rhen work together to save Emberfall from destruction, their initial distrust and hostility evolve into a passionate and unexpected romance.

The slow-burning romance between Harper and Rhen is at the heart of the story, as they learn to trust and depend on each other despite their differences. The novel is an enthralling read that explores themes of love, sacrifice, and self-discovery, making it a perfect choice for fans of fantasy romance and the enemies-to-lovers trope.

Sorcery of Thorns

By Margaret Rogerson

Elisabeth is a young orphan raised in one of the Great Libraries, finds herself accused of a terrible crime after a dangerous grimoire is unleashed. To clear her name, she must join forces with the brooding sorcerer, Nathaniel Thorn, and his demon servant, Silas. As they work together to unravel a sinister conspiracy, Elisabeth and Nathaniel’s initial animosity transforms into a complex and passionate bond that challenges everything they thought they knew.

The relationship between Elisabeth and Nathaniel is a captivating and slow-burning love story that unfolds amidst a backdrop of deadly grimoires and dangerous secrets. The gradual development of their bond, combined with the high-stakes adventure and richly-imagined world, creates an enthralling and unforgettable reading experience that will leave readers yearning for more.

A Deal with the Elf King

By Elise Kova

Luella, a human girl with a talent for magic, is taken from her home to fulfill an ancient pact and marry Eldas, the stern Elf King. Bound by duty and tradition, Luella and Eldas must work together to save their kingdoms from an impending darkness. As they face challenges and uncover hidden secrets, their initial animosity and mistrust turn into a deep and passionate connection that defies all expectations.

The gradual development of Luella and Eldas’ relationship from reluctant allies to more is both heartwarming and intense, providing a compelling romantic element that drives the story. With its rich world-building and engaging plot, A Deal with the Elf King is an enchanting read for fans of the enemies-to-lovers trope and immersive fantasy tales.

The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue

By V.E. Schwab

The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue is an unconventional enemies-to-lovers tale of a woman who makes a deal with a god and becomes immortal but at the cost of being forgotten by everyone she meets. Addie has been wandering the world for three hundred years, unable to leave a mark on the world or have anyone remember her.

That is until she meets a man with raven hair and emerald eyes who goes by the name of Luc. Their dynamic is one of constant push and pull, rooted in a shared need for companionship. This captivating book explores the complexities of love and relationships, challenging conventional notions of what it means to be in love with someone who is your enemy.