What are your go-to comfort reads? Feeling a bit stressed and overwhelmed so an escape would be nice 😅

I’m cool with pretty much anything, although I would prefer to avoid books with like an academy/high school/university setting and any F/F. But other than that I’m not picky lol. Thanks in advance!

I'm looking for some good reverse harem femdom smut books, fantasy or realistic. Not like torture bdsm, but like where she is their master or something along those lines? Not really sure.🤷‍♀️
( I also like voyeurism toys being used on MMCs.)

Guys I just read the man upstairs by Jade west and I’m in love! I want more recs like this book. So for background- a young girl (fmc) goes knocking on the mmc’s door to come help her mum from an abusive situation despite knowing the rumours about him (that he’s a creep who preys on young girls). He obvi helps her and her mum. She goes back to say thank you to him and keep making excuse to show up at his door/talk to him. When he finally snaps and confirms the gossip that he was sleeping with his daughters friends behind his wife and daughter’s back and he likes young girls (18+ obvi). She spends a night at his apartment as well and goes snooping only to see a young girl in a bdsm photo that the mmc took and decides she wants to be his girl no matter what what. I love how the fmc is not deterred by photo or his confession, if anything she wants to prove to him that she can be the most perfect fit for him. He finally acquiesces and does exactly what she (and even he) wants to do to her. And slowly corrupts the fmc. Also the mmc took full responsibility of his actions and left his old (rich) life to settle into a mediocre place so his family doesn’t bear more shame.

I don’t mind if they’re on ao3/wattpad/literotica or other websites. I absolutely love how depraved he is and how desperate she is. I love the age gap. I love the absolutely taboo element. And the whisk…iykyk. Ughh. I need something more like it. Please let me know of similar books/authors. I loved how it was her who was pining after him and degrading herself to make him act on his thoughts. I loved how shamed and depraved he was. Like he obviously lost his family and everything due to his…choices but he owned that to the core. I want a deliciously depraved book like this. I loved the taboo kinks as well such as the whisk, breeding, corruption, ddlg. And I loved the massive age gap of 30+ years. I also loved how innocent she was. The fmc was very tolerable. I hope you understand what I’m trying to say. Thank you in advance!

I was shocked when I saw that M.K. Harper published another book after a long time. For those who don't know, she wrote {Give Me Peace by M.K. Harper}, one of the best books I've ever read with a traumatized FMC. That book is constantly recommended in the community, and since I hadn't seen anyone talking about {Breakaway by M.K. Harper}, here I am! It's MFMMM.

While I procrastinate reading a severely embarrassing scene.

Currently reading {cruel beasts by Allie Santos} not super far into it but my god the fmc is embarrassing. It’s 100% intentional as the fmc was sheltered and socially stunted. Within the first 27 pages she’s gone in for 2 socially unacceptable hugs (tho one was for vengeance) and burst into her neighbors room and got an eyeful because she mistook sex sounds for distress sounds. The embarrassing part was the fact she took to long explaining herself and then basically said ‘hey while I’m here let’s talk about STDs’ 😵‍💫 its been a fun book for the little ive read so far ! but I feel second hand embarrassment really intensely so it feels like this fmc was sent onto me by the devil himself for some light premature torture.

This is now a tradition I hope to carry on each month–a chance to give people the chance to talk about books that might not have been added to their all-time favorites, or they might not have enjoyed enough to write a full post for raving about them (or, honestly, may not have had the energy), but goddamnit they were enjoyable reads. And maybe they haven’t fit any specific rec requests well enough for you to add them, but you still want to get the word out about them. It also doesn’t have to be a new book—if you reread something and loved it, tell us about it!

I’m going to be shorter in my own description this month: PhD program has officially started, and I’m working constantly. But I still had some good reads!

I spent much of August finally reading things that I had put off because I wasn’t in the mood yet as well as enjoying some new series.

Rereading Liminal, and then reading the rest of the {Arcanaeum series Marie Mistry} was definitely a highlight of the beginning of the month. I know feelings were mixed, but I loved it; I joked a few places that I am now my own second-favorite RH-reading librarian.

I also enjoyed {Trouble with Monsters by Grace McGinty}, through I agree with a very good friend who felt the ending was kind of rushed.

My favorite of August was actually a MF, but I have been reading Ilona Andrews for almost two decades, so I feel this potentially shocking (to some) turn of events isn’t really a sign of the impending apocalypse, as has been suggested.

Now it’s y’all’s turn, so please. Tell us all about what book(s) brightened your August.

There is also a comment for people to add any books that they were particularly disappointed by June so people have a place to talk about it, but it doesn’t confuse others browsing for good book recs.

A bit of a long shot, but one of my fave book series is {rain of shadows and endings} I love the angst and eventual betrayal that comes from the forced bond between the main characters.

Can anyone recommend any other books with forced bonds in?

Up for anything apart from OV, unless the FMC gains agency in the end.

I mostly lurk on this sub, but I wrote a spoiler-free review of {Crown of Crimson & Crows by Tessa Hale} for the fantasy romance sub and figured the RH sub might appreciate it too!

Crown of Crimson & Crows is the first book in a new paranormal reverse harem series set in the same universe as the Dragons of Ember Hollow and the Wolves of Crescent Creek series. It was released today, on September 1, 2026.

About the book

Rae is living a pretty non-exciting life, studying botany with her best friend Pax, when she suddenly is taken to another realm. She finds out that she was born there, her memories were taken, and that she's really a powerful witch that is fated to be with four vampires. To complete the bonds and fully unlock her newly acquired magic, however, she still has to find all her mates across the realm.

My thoughts

For me, Tessa Hale is one of those authors that just gets what her audience is looking for and delivers every time. I’ve read two previous series in this universe and was hooked each time, and this was no exception.

I loved the new setting we get to explore in this book. The previous series took place in a contemporary (mostly) mortal world, while in this one, the FMC travels from the mortal to the otherworldly realm. So while some parts of the story might feel familiar to people who have read Hale’s other books, the new world adds some excitement. At the same time, there's no need to read any of the other books before starting this one. There is one Easter egg to the Crescent Kingdom series that people who haven't read it won't get, but it is of no consequence to the wider plot.

Something I really appreciated is that even though the main characters are fated mates, the relationships between the love interests get the time to develop. Sure, they feel attracted to each other and the mate bond means that they also feel inclined to protect each other, but Rae is still coming to terms with the upheaval of her life and the MMCs have their own reasons for keeping their distance.

One point of critique (besides the title that doesn’t really do the book any favours) is that the story does feel very much like the first book in a series. As Rae is getting used to her new reality, the reader is introduced to the world and different kingdoms and meets the main and side characters. And while the characters all feel really fleshed out, the introduction stays surface level at times when it comes to the world building and politics, with some parts of the story unclear or underdeveloped. For instance, the witches are ruled by queens and yet the heir is a man, and the reasons for the Big Evil to attack the kingdoms are unclear. There are some hints towards the intrigue that will come at play later, so I’m hoping for some more action and seeing the schemes play out in the next book - especially with how this ended on a cliffhanger.

All that said, I can’t wait for the sequel!

Who is this book for?

I’d recommend this book for people who’ve previously enjoyed Tessa Hale’s series, who crave that addicting quality of an early 2000s CW paranormal tv series (but make it why choose), or want to make a first foray into reverse harem from fantasy romance but don’t know where to start.

If you enjoyed Bewitched by Laura Thalassa, but thought the story could’ve used more love interests, I think you’ll enjoy this book!

I'm looking for books where the fmc has been through a lot in her life and then she meets mmc's who are sweet and help her heal and show her that they love her no matter what. I have read books by Ashley N. Rostek, Shona Knight, Kerry Taylor, and Blake black and want books with the same vibe. (Described above) Would not mind finding other authors who mainly write these kinds of books either. I prefer books with no mm.

A body guard type deal or grovel 2nd chance ...

My understanding is that due to Weston missing planned release dates, {Savage Surrender by Livi Weston} had to be done as a live-release, so I wanted to alert anyone who doesn’t follow the author’s socials that the trilogy is now complete!

(Many thanks to u/Hoeuiz who let people know on the September Anticipated Releases post that it was out.)

I’m still going to be a wimp and a coward and wait until reviews come back about whether the ending makes up for the angst. But to everyone who is braver than me (or who has been suffering from lack of resolution until now)—happy reading!

I've recently finished binging all of Leann Belle's books, and her FMCs and the banter between her MMCs is consistently hilarious despite the dark nature of most of her books. Fianna in Code Vessel is my ride or die, and the men in Stalking Cinderella and zodiac hybrids had me cracking up as they sniped at eachother. The only way I can think to describe the sense of humor is sort of dry sarcasm, self-deprecating humor, dark jokes, and the snarkiest banter between the leads, including the men teasing each other. The way she switches from snark to serious or emotional was so well done, I couldn't stop reading and got really invested in everyone

Jasmine Mas is another one who hits this well for me. Alexis in blood of hercules is one of my favorite FMCs (At least in the first book. I struggled a bit with Bonds), and I loved Aran in psycho academy (The magic diary/therapy scenes had me in stitches)

The twisted sister's Ruthless Boys of the Zodiac was pretty fun too (The FMC was a little bland, but the men were a lot of fun and I liked the humor and dynamic mostly), though I couldn't get into Zodiac academy, so not sure if that was just a one off for their humor or if their other books are more like Ruthless Boys. I prefer characters who feel funny AND smart

NoFear by Tate James also had me laughing pretty solidly with the banter between the men, although I've read one of her other series (Dear Reader) and never really found her overly funny, so I don't know if she's normally a funny writer. But NoFear also nailed sarcasm and teasing and the premise is great for it

Not really into zany, slapstick type humor thet you get in the average bubbly RomCom (MF authors like Meghan Quinn are a bit too light for me, and I've read a few books described as funny that are more like "lolololol the FMC randomly said potato!!" type humor which isn't personally my sense of humor) but I love FMCs who make fun of themselves, their problems, and everyone and everything around them, BUT can also be serious when they need to and feel intelligent and witty in their commentary. Harems with men who tease and mock each other are also a blast even if the FMC is a more serious foil. The whole cast doesn't need to be funny or anything.

Dark humor is very much my vibe, so making light of fucked up things never gets old for me. Mostly I just want the humor to feel relevant within the context of the story without feeling overly juvenile.

Humorous social commentary - Smash.

Fart jokes - Pass.

So what authors am I missing out on? I'm sure their are a ton, but these are the only ones I can think of off hand that made me laugh, and I'd like more in this style!

Tessa Hale Twilight of Embers

Okay I'm about halfway through Speak by Ruby Darling on audiobook...maybe it's messed up but I'm not really rooting for anyone yet?

I know I'm supposed to be on Raven's side seeking righteous vengeance...but she's kinda brutal too... anyone else feel that way at first? Tell me that turns around!

CAN I JUST SAY! WOW I love this series so far(just finished book 6) and to all the people recommending it I will be billing you all for the tissue and comfort snacks I needed to power through and finish book 6! The emotional state I’m in right now is just whew.

{bonding psychos by Gina Morris}

For some reason, 2026 seems to be the great reread year, although there have been a few great new discoveries.

But I don’t see this one recommended regularly and I had forgotten just how superb it is - capable but not over the top FMC, a few psychotic MMCs, fantastic story that keeps you guessing and humour throughout. It’s an urban fantasy, with a few bbegs thrown in and a wonderfully chaotic cast of characters.

Ben is my favourite (maybe you’re more of a cat person though)?

If you have not read it, I highly recommend. You’re in for a treat. If you have, her contemporary series is also excellent. Apparently Mikey is going to be in a new fantasy one at some point? He was a fantastic supporting character.

Hi everyone! I recently read {Broken Bonds by J Bree} ! I enjoyed the book enough to check out the second book but sadly I will be dnf’ing the series. However the book did put me in the Mood…to be pissed off at a bunch of fictional characters. I’m looking for bully romances, other woman drama, rejected mates, and general douchebaggery etc etc. Heaps of jealousy and possessiveness (especially from the mmcs) and a medium to slow burn.

I’d prefer it to be at least somewhat well written. And while I understand it often comes with the territory for other woman drama, can we keep the misogyny to a minimum. There can be mean girls or girls in competition/bullying the fmc but omgggg it gets to a Point.

I’m fine with MM and FF ! I’m chill with dubcon but straight up noncon between the fmc and the mmcs is a no go for me.

I keep seeing this series recommended on this sub constantly, but I just can’t bring myself to pick it up which is so annoying. I read the blurb on goodreads but it doesn’t give that much away. For me to reallyyyyy love a rh tbh as long as I love/am intrigued by the characters, I’ll read the series till the end even if the plot loses its spark by the end. What can you tell me about the plot and characters? What are the mmcs like? What’s the fmc like? I don’t mind minor spoilers so don’t worry about giving those away!

I tried posting in the romance sub, but I didn’t have enough karma and I always have the best luck here anyways 🫶🏼

I have read a lot of romance (open to any genre- I most often read fantasy romance and RH) and lately I have been yearning for the feeling in which I’m literally giggling reading a book.

What book most recently had you kicking your feet and blushing?

Books I’ve recently read that hit this need like crack:

• “The Love Hypothesis” by Ali Hazelwood
• “Captivated” by Tessa Bailey
• “Failure to Match” by Kyra Parsi
• “Shear Instinct” by M.K. Michelle

Thank you 🫶🏼

Hi friends! I'm trying to find this omegaverse I read earlier this year. It's set at the Renaissance festival. The whole pack works there/ runs it. There's also a male omega in the pack as well Who I think is a magician? Thanks!

The longer the trigger warning, the better. Can be supernatural or not. Thanks!

So I just read {The Knight and the Moth by Rachel Gillig} and I didn't know I was wanting this trope until I read it!!! The way Rory blushes, is effected by the FMC, is obviously smitten and head over heals but the FMC is clueless about it or is just more composed! I absolutely love it! Please recommend more with similar trope!
I don't have any major trigger warnings that just some "icks" that I mention below. I've read some that start and are so promising but then all of a sudden the FMC is over her hesitancy because she feels comfortable with them. Below is my copy/ paste of things I like and dislike as well as a list of books I’ve read that are similar to what I’m looking for:

Like:
- I like it when the female has a tragic past that the guys help her through but it’s not required.
- PLEASE MAKE SURE THERE IS AN ACTUAL PLOT AND IT’S WELL WRITTEN ( I think this is the only thing I truly care about)
- ideally the characters are in their 20-30s. I know a lot of RH have their FMC as 18 but I’m almost 30 and I have a hard time connecting with those characters now. This is not a deal breaker though.
- love me a grovel arch where the guys mess up and they have to make up for it. I don’t want the apology to be meh and the female to immediately forgive them! Think pack darling! (Again not required but I still love the trope)
- I love fantasy, PNR, shifter, OV! I think the only thing I’m not a big fan of is aliens. 🤷‍♀️
- MMC are OBSESSED with FMC! ❤️
- a series that’s a trilogy or more (not really a fan of one shots or duologues)
- single love interests or reverse harem, fine by me! :)

Don’t like: (these I think I’m a little more strict on not wanting but if you think it’s worth or you think I’ll like it than I will still give it a try)
- insta lust/ full smut. I want things to build, I want there to be a story! There are some books that has a sex scene every other chapter!!
- no mafia/ sport RH please (I never got into it)
- no pregnancy please (don’t really like that trope and I usually dnf a book as soon as a baby is involved)

I have read so many books but honestly most of the ones I read, the males are so composed and are amused by how flustered the FMC is. I think the closest example besides The Knight and the Moth would be {Cruel Prince by Holly Black} Carden is sooo in love with Jude and kind of just lets her do her thing!

It doesn't have to be all of the guys ( I realize that would be almost impossible) but if there can at least be one I would absolutely love that!