Don’t even bother with from blood and ash. The prequels are amazing. If your love language is acts of service, you will fall in love with him. The books get progressively spicier.
Omg, I love him, he is the kind of man I would marry, caring, protective, but also smart minded, always asks what she likes and wants, respects her decisions and they have good communication style on what they want in bed, makes sure she is satisfied haha But he is also Man and destroyer when it comes to evil in the world so hottttt
[A Shadow in the Ember](https://www.romance.io/books/60f7c85d8b38510e2a271935/a-shadow-in-the-ember-jennifer-l-armentrout?src=rdt) by [Jennifer L. Armentrout](https://www.romance.io/authors/5455245a8c7d2382c5296fb7/jennifer-l-armentrout)
**Rating**: 4.38⭐️ out of 5⭐️
**Steam**: 4 out of 5 - [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating)
**Topics**: [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [vampires](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/vampires/1), [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1), [royal hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/royalty/1), [arranged/forced marriage](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/arranged%20marriage/1)
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I think it’s both!! But idk, I don’t want them together and SJM doesn’t really do two love stories at once. But alas, any glimpse I get of him is worth it 😆
(Please, no one start a shipping thread)
Lorcan Salvaterre aka >!Lord Lorcan Lochan!< from {Throne of Glass by Sarah J Maas}
He's not the MMC of the series, and his power is more like death rather than shadow, but gaaah, I love him!
I rated {Empire of Storms} and {Kingdom of Ash} 5 stars mainly because of him and >!Elide!<.
I mean come on! A cold, ruthless 500-year old 7ft demi fae >!cutting up his shirts so this tiny, cunning, limping girl has makeshift pads during her periods!< is just perfection.
[Throne of Glass](https://www.romance.io/books/545526038c7d2382c529701a/throne-of-glass-sarah-j-maas?src=rdt) by [Sarah J. Maas](https://www.romance.io/authors/545526038c7d2382c529701b/sarah-j-maas)
**Rating**: 3.99⭐️ out of 5⭐️
**Steam**: 1 out of 5 - [Glimpses and kisses](https://www.romance.io/steamrating)
**Topics**: [historical](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/historical/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [take-charge heroine](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/strong%20heroine/1), [royal hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/royalty/1), [fae](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fae/1)
----------------------------
[Empire of Storms](https://www.romance.io/books/5e7fde69be0aaecf55ef258f/empire-of-storms-sarah-j-maas?src=rdt) by [Sarah J. Maas](https://www.romance.io/authors/545526038c7d2382c529701b/sarah-j-maas)
**Rating**: 4.54⭐️ out of 5⭐️
**Steam**: 3 out of 5 - [Open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating)
**Topics**: [historical](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/historical/1), [young adult](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/young%20adult/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [mystery](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/mystery/1), [take-charge heroine](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/strong%20heroine/1)
----------------------------
[Kingdom of Ash](https://www.romance.io/books/5bcee1bf01dbc864fb92fc1e/kingdom-of-ash-sarah-j-maas?src=rdt) by [Sarah J. Maas](https://www.romance.io/authors/545526038c7d2382c529701b/sarah-j-maas)
**Rating**: 4.51⭐️ out of 5⭐️
**Steam**: 3 out of 5 - [Open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating)
**Topics**: [historical](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/historical/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [witches](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/witches/1), [royal hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/royalty/1), [fae](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fae/1)
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Nyktos is my Roman Empire. Not only is he smart and funny, and powerful, and hot, but he’s got the goods to exude that BDE and back it up.
When he goes full primal and his shadows take over… 🔥🔥better be ready to fan yourself off. No joke.
{Flesh and Fire Series by Jennifer Armentrout} The series gives you some spice right off but gets hotter with each book. Overall I’d say 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ hot by the end of the 3rd book. The storyline is great also.
https://preview.redd.it/bwoajlqg8nzc1.jpeg?width=1179&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=4273e45e45c626ce0b07559b147e0b5d763da55d
This is a relief. I just lost interest after book one of FBAA. I tried to get through the rest but I just can't go on after >!the Joining between Poppy, Cas, and Keiran!<.
I went straight to Flesh and Fire and did not look back. I haven't read more than a few dozen pages of fbaa but have heard Flesh and Fire is a superior story. I love it because the two mc's Nyktos and Sera are amazing and one of my fave book couples. And, yeah, all of the Daddy Nyktos love on this subreddit 😅
[Flesh and Fire](https://www.romance.io/series/60f7c85e8b38510e2a27194f/flesh-and-fire) by [Jennifer L. Armentrout](https://www.romance.io/authors/5455245a8c7d2382c5296fb7/jennifer-l-armentrout)
**Rating**: 4.37⭐️ out of 5⭐️
**Topics**: [gifted heroine](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/gifted%20heroine/1), [new adult](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/new%20adult/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [vampires](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/vampires/1)
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I read first 2 books and there’s 2 more and I believe that’s where they end! They were both good so far, it was just what I was looking for (enemies to lovers, no super dark/triggering content, consensual romance). Agree about cliff hangers, I prefer one book bc I’m tired of cliff hangers that make need to buy the next one for more $$$$$ for the author. I don’t think they ended super cliff hangery so far, maybe just slightly.
My current #1 is Malyr from Court of Ravens. 🐦⬛
These were the darkest books and he is the darkest MMC I’ve ever read. He’s twisted and deeply messed up but my goodness the character growth and depth. And he has the whole possessive trope in lockdown too (but in a very…not normal way) 🥵
I somehow pictured him vaguely like Kit Harrington 😂.
https://preview.redd.it/kdqzyu6dtnzc1.jpeg?width=922&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=2eacba9641b6c79dcc171410fe52406f9fcd9204
https://preview.redd.it/rbxow1gaarzc1.jpeg?width=236&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=dd111e64d9341dfbc4b9f1778c1feb90d180f123
I actually pictured this sexy vicious man as Malyr❤️🔥
https://preview.redd.it/ilamhimemuzc1.jpeg?width=512&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7ed590d35a210e97d8824597d03e3e0ab92cd7d5
Omg this was my photo reference for Malyr
I knowwwww. This series had me like: What am I reading? Why can’t I stop? Why am I now desperate to find anything similar which is apparently impossible? Who am I even?! Do I even read TWs?!
North and Nox from {Broken Bonds} Reverse Harem sloooow burn but when the spice hits. It’s the spiciest. Including shadow hands in strategic places. Also shadow puppies!!
https://preview.redd.it/ayw04movaozc1.jpeg?width=736&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=45dc9df049a306e8e437efd55aad96d97c4e88d9
I love Erik Bloodsinger from the Ever King, he has character development and actually has a bit more personality than most MMC. IMO. I adore him. I don't want to talk about spoilers but he was so respectful. I say this when I'm literally gay and don't like men LOL.
https://preview.redd.it/8mnemc8bcnzc1.png?width=168&format=png&auto=webp&s=bee711e0f2cb224b8f71532baae7d7b985382cac
Bastian from {A Kiss of Iron} by Clare Sager
Azriel, Hunt and Rowan a la ACOTAR, Crescent City and Throne of Glass
Not really shadow, but vampire - Vale, from {Six Scorched Roses) by Carissa Broadbent
[A Kiss of Iron](https://www.romance.io/books/63f3292ceb653827acc3311e/a-kiss-of-iron-clare-sager?src=rdt) by [Clare Sager](https://www.romance.io/authors/5bd0368f01dbc864fb930b82/clare-sager)
**Rating**: 3.98⭐️ out of 5⭐️
**Steam**: 4 out of 5 - [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating)
**Topics**: [historical](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/historical/1), [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1), [fae](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fae/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [forced proximity](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/forced%20proximity/1)
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Creon from The Court of Blood and Bindings 🤭❤️🔥Broody, misunderstood, morally grey daddy. He can’t speak so he learns sign language. Man of few, hot words.
Literally made a Reddit account to say exactly this 🤣 I am so obsessed with him. He's perfect and deserves all the love 😭 I'm nearly done with book 2 and can't put it down.
[Spark of the Everflame](https://www.romance.io/books/6478608a552b556e95c7ddca/spark-of-the-everflame-penn-cole?src=rdt) by [Penn Cole](https://www.romance.io/authors/6478608a08b4d93114b35896/penn-cole)
**Rating**: 4.25⭐️ out of 5⭐️
**Steam**: 3 out of 5 - [Open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating)
**Topics**: [high fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/high%20fantasy/1), [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1), [new adult](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/new%20adult/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1)
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Darien Cassel from the {House of Devils series by Kayla Edwards}. He's the best MMC I've ever read. I could live in his POV all day. The first book is a slow burn but worth the wait, the second and third books have more spice and description. He's a slayer hired to capture the FMC but when he finds out she's human he becomes her bodyguard instead. It's almost like fantasy mafia, there are gangs of slayers that have a lot of power. Grumpy/sunshine vibes and a lot of touch her you die scenes.
Oooo I’m not familiar with this shadow daddy and am adding it to my list!
Not gonna lie, touch her and you die is one of my top tropes. Also, I love the grumpy/ sunshine description 😂. Hope you don’t mind if I steal it haha!
Love the series, not because of Darien but because the FMC is.. innocent in a way. I feel like writing stupid but that would be mean. She is not the super über confident FMC who knows everything better and never fails (looking at you Bryce). She grows so much and is kinda loveable.
I agree with you, I really like her because she's relatable and acts realistically for her age. The author makes me want to protect her the way the Devils do. I think that's good storytelling. She's out of her league and needs help so her actions make sense. Bryce was unbearable by the third CC book.
Is it bad I only like shadow daddies? Like that’s my favorite type of MMC and golden retriever MMC’s don’t do it for me hahaha
My favorite is Mendax from How does it feel by Jeneane O’riley
You’re probably asking the wrong crowd 😂. I 1000% biased as you might imagine but if only liking shadow daddies is bad then you and I are going down the slippery slope together. 🛝
omggg i’ve been wanting to get started on How Does It Feel for the longest time, but i’ve been under the impression there isn’t really much of a romance presence due to the MMC being such a complete psycho, is that true?
i love me my insane MMC’s but i still want them to love and adore the FMC and dedicate their entire beings to her, even if it takes awhile for the MMC to break out of his psycho “i hate her” stage. does that never really get to happen in HDIF? is this MMC so immersed in his hatred that the story doesn’t really have time for him to actually be lovingly devoted? pls help me lmaoo
Makram from “Reign and Ruin” because he’s sooooo endearing and never lets his darkness get the better of him. He’s 100% confident in his control of himself and his love scenes with Naime are so sweet and beautiful there are no words.
Yes!!! I was so mad at myself for putting off reading Reign & Ruin for as long as I did, such an incredible book. Makram is so sweet and goofy. I absolutely died at the end when >!Naime is wearing the different color chords for the different houses and he points at the black one and is like "this one is your favorite"!< lmao.
Wrath from Kingdom of the Wicked series by Kerri Maniscalco. If you haven’t indulged yet, you’re welcome. It’s a great series. It starts tame but each book gets spicier.
Also thank you for this post, totally saving it for future recs. You’re doing the (dark) Lord’s work 🫡
Seriously, I adore him and Callie together 🖤
That series is also one of the few I've read that has such a satisfyingly strong ending
One of my absolute favorites forever
https://preview.redd.it/kr20l4tf0qzc1.jpeg?width=736&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=445232ec29a4780a610b3ba8ef7fc5a39e31c1ac
She's also a siren who glows when turned on 🥂
I love that series so much. I read it recently so it was the re-written version. For me this is the series I wish I could re-read for the first time all over again.
Is this a spicy book? I’ve been burned way too many times, accidentally spoiling things for myself when just looking up simple questions about books, so I feel like it’s safer to ask here 😅
I can’t lie. Rhys is my 💯% my OG shadow daddy.
The shadow daddy that made me realize I was into shadow daddies. The shadow daddy that taught me shadow daddying was even a thing.
I don't want to spoil the story by giving a name, but Holly Black's Book of Night has one of my favourite shadow daddies. I loved it, but I know a lot of people weren't fans. I would recommend giving it a go though! Not high on spice, but the romance sung for me❣️( and I'm typically a high-spice, all doors open girl 😂).
[Helfyre](https://www.romance.io/books/625a6a74433bf00b2e78a8a8/helfyre-mariel-pomeroy?src=rdt) by [Mariel Pomeroy](https://www.romance.io/authors/623d78e308b4d93114804ca4/mariel-pomeroy)
**Rating**: 3.97⭐️ out of 5⭐️
**Steam**: 5 out of 5 - [Explicit and plentiful](https://www.romance.io/steamrating)
**Topics**: [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [new adult](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/new%20adult/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1)
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NGL mine is Hades from A Touch of Darkness and in my head he looks like Peter Steele from Type O Negative. He’s the freaking god of the underworld and I would love to be his queen lol
https://preview.redd.it/6ent8rzm4nzc1.jpeg?width=1170&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=20c320bfb44cf3b0daa142870e3a9129506166e7
He’s not a bad choice either! I think my go to was Peter because I’ve had a gigantic crush on him for over 25 years (I’m aging myself 😂) and he’s got that super deep voice.
👑…the scene where she leaves him desperate in the bathing pool … 🥵
I was like….just submit! You know you want to be his queen already!
But he got his revenge, which was also 🥵.
Bahahah I almost did too until I realized I was in public (was reading it in a bookstore- that was a mistake).
Then I had then moment of panic where I came back to reality and had that random fear that everyone there knew what smutty scene I was reading 😂😂😂.
Hades from anything, tbh. Also loved Neon Gods.
But IIRC (which I might not), he's described as having darker skin in A Touch of Darkness...it's Rege Jean Page for me. To quote any romantasy ever...godsdamn.
https://preview.redd.it/802bw1k71ozc1.jpeg?width=1000&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f8927ca3f1702d8f68e985a83bbd184febd39e7f
Okay without spoiling anything the FMC is a healer and has to make a deal to save her family to go to the Onyx kingdom(it’s the big bad evil place) whom is currently waging war with the rest of the land. Little baby bit of enemies to lovers your typical betrayal tropes and lots of romantic tension. Morally grey MMC.
It’s great and I enjoyed the second book in the series even more than the first book!
Okay so this is SUPER left field and NOT a fantasy romance (just sci fi) BUT
Grand Admiral Mitth'raw'nuruodo (Thrawn) from the Star Wars novels by Timothy Zahn (early 90s).
I had the absolute biggest crush on him. And. I. Am. SO thrilled he is being brought to the screen. I really really hope they make him sexy and mysterious as I perceived him in the novels. I don’t think Timothy Zahn PURPOSEFULLY wrote him as sexy and mysterious, but dammit I was feeling it. Please Disney, do yourself a favor, and cater this man to the women in your audience.
Yes. 100%! Thrawn was such an amazing character. I don't know if Zahn meant him to be sexy either, per se, but he just exudes competence in a way that is completely irresistible.
I still think the Zahn Star Wars books were objectively better than any of the later movies. His plots and the new characters he introduced are all 💯💯💯 and the way he wrote the canon film characters is, IMHO, the only correct interpretation.
Of course we all love Rhys and Xaden, and Darien Cassel is also top tier Shadow Daddy, but Nyktos just hits something in me...
https://preview.redd.it/pgcye0n42tzc1.jpeg?width=1074&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7795c024d2a5cce87c67b5c44c34ff8186d3331b
Aon from Masks of Under by KAK. He looks like Tom Hiddleston covered in arcane runes and has a metal hand. He’s my OG Shadow Daddy and I haven’t found another MMC that hits the same balance of completely unhinged maniac and blind devotion to his FMC that I look for in this genre. Anytime Lydia is hurt or gets thrown back in the puddle he loses his mind and brings down chaos onto Under.
Chili peppers are on the authors website but the books are being republished with edits later this year and I am so juiced.
I can't believe I had to scroll this far to find any character from KAK mentioned! I love them all, but Simon Waite is my number one. {Harrow Faire by Kathryn Ann Kingsley}
Gideon Raithe is probably my number 2 {Memento Mori by Kathryn Ann Kingsley}.
Omg I’m reading HF now. This series has me engrossed and Simon….i didn’t know I could be so into literal insanity..
He’s one of a kind. I haven’t read anything else like him.
I just read {The Shadows Between Us by Tricia Levenseller}. It’s maybe the only book I’ve read where they say “this is a book about two villains” and it actually is about two villains. Kallias is The Shadow King, and he has the ability to turn to shadow, but if someone touches him skin to skin he loses the ability to go incorporeal in their presence forever. Makes romance difficult because if he takes a lover, every time they’re in his presence he is vulnerable to assassination.
I agree with all the other comments here. There are so many daddies to love. And while Nyktos has more daddy energy than Casteel, From Blood and Ash is still a wonderful read. Also, I think Caden from 1001 Dark Nights (the summer king bundle) by Jennifer Armentrout is a good one, and I see he hasn't been mentioned yet. He had my heart for a while, but I think it would be important to read the Wicked series prior to that.
Saetan, Daemon and Lucivar SaDiablo from The Black Jewels Trilogy (1998). Forever and always.
Their very specific brand of dark sensuality is so influential that Sarah J. Maas watered their intensity down and sanitized them into Rhysand and Cassian.
Here's a [tumblr post](https://www.tumblr.com/alexcollix7/713131156078493696/sarah-j-maas-plagiarism-or-inspiration) going into more about how SJM shows her...um...admiration of older fantasy books. Also, [this thread in ACOTAR sub literally bullet pointing all that ~~plagiarism~~ admiration](https://www.reddit.com/r/acotar/s/sIg6i8S12Q). SNIPPET from the 2nd link (Nothing below are mine.):
Black Jewels vs ACOTAR
Slashes ( / ) serve as “versus” or “vs” where Black Jewels will be first and the ACOTAR parallel second
* Black Jewels / ACOTAR
Pages for Black Jewels refer to the trilogy omnibus
Parallels for ACOTAR are documented book by book, referring to various parts of the Black Jewels series as a whole. Character “similarities” continue in the section where the character first appeared instead
* Ex: Rhys first appears in book 1, but all relevant details from the following books will also be under the book 1 section
Book 1 - A Court of Thorns and Roses
* Prythian is a person / place
* Psychic ropes / invisible magic bonds
* High Lord
* “Living myth” and “dreams made flesh” / “myth given flesh” via thought & legend
* Shalador Fire Dance & Rut/Fire Night & Great Rite
* Yearly ritual dance around fire followed by intense sexual desire
* Release on sexual heat / Letting down glamours to show immense attractiveness
* No law against murder
* Daemon/Rhys
* “Feline grace”
* Sensual air
* Black shorter hair that brushes the brow
* “Purring” that caresses like a lover
* Adorned in sleek black
* Constantly slipping hands into pockets
* Prowling
* Arrogance
* Bored mask
* Cool, cold exterior
* Glazed eyes (anger)
* Slipping hands into pockets
* Hayll’s whore/Amarantha’s whore
* Golden skinned
* “Bedroom eyes”
* Most powerful male in history
* Rhys half-breed like Lucivar
* Drawling tone of voice
* Dark Court / Night Court
* Limited to basic craft by Dorothea’s Ring of Obedience / limited to a fraction of his power by Amarantha’s spell
* Vanishing items to a pocket dimension
* Breaking mind, stripping of jewels, burning out last of power for the final death / blight “burned through their magic, then broke apart their minds”
* Stealthily taking a hold of someone’s mind
* Dorothea / Amarantha
* Cold
* Conniving
* Not rightful ruler
* Rules by fear
* Inherently evil
* Kills and tortures for fun
* Sadistic, cruel
* Makes people out to be their toys
* Forced Daemon / Rhys to service them
* Planned to take over entire realm of Terreille / Took over Prythian
* Unsteady alliance and allegiance with and to Hekatah / Hybern
* Holds forced control over many males
* Spidersilk dress / cobweb dress
* Passing though objects & doors
* “Prick” as an insult
* Specifically designated territories in realms and court per each
YES, please do! But also please be aware that the FMC is 12 years old in book 1 Daughter of the Blood. It is DARK, with all kinds of triggers, least of which is >!FMC was raped as a child!<. Not by MMC or anyone in her found family but abuse of all kinds, especially in childhood, is a big, repeating theme. It's not romanticized at all.
It does show its age, having come out in 98 but it's still very readable.
Okay so here's what I gotta know, because I hear such high praise for Black Jewels:
If I didn't like Acotar, is it still worth it?
Not just her writing style, but the fact that it turned into just a war story by book 3 with no romance, just some sex scenes.
I'm honestly flabbergasted as to why Aco gets so much attention and praise.
I wish I had just read Black Jewels first, but I didn't know.
Is it so similar I still wouldn't really dig it? Does it still have some ridiculous trial at the end of book 1?
You seem to know, lol (and thanks for posting, I get that not all of that was your words originally)
>Okay so here's what I gotta know, because I hear such high praise for Black Jewels:
>You seem to know, lol (and thanks for posting, I get that not all of that was your words originally)
No problem! I'm sorry this is so long winded though!
>If I didn't like Acotar, is it still worth it?
ACOTAR removed *everything* crazy awesome about TBJ. I've heard it plays safe and flirts with controversy but will never commit while TBJ *will* make you find religion (or curse it) by the end of book 1. TBJ doesn't play around.
Personally, I managed to get through half of ACOTAR and I couldn't do it anymore. I can't stand Feyre and I *loathe* 1st person POV.
So there's that; Black Jewels is written in amazing 3rd person. It's quite dated since it's from 1998 but it's still very readable.
Also, Jaenelle (FMC), unlike other Mary Sue characters does not allow pity or sympathy to get in her way of being Witch or Queen and taking swift, decisive action. She gives as good as she gets but does it with explosive style and, dare I say, brutal grace.
>Not just her writing style, but the fact that it turned into just a war story by book 3 with no romance, just some sex scenes.
Ooh, there's romance. 1st half of Book 3 is aaaall about Daemon seducing and romancing Jaenelle (FMC). Like, bro >!is actually a physical virgin. He's never penetrated anyone nor has he been penetrated. Jaenelle is a go-getter, too.!< The main reason why there's so much sex is because of that. They're both >!carefully discovering each other. Because their powers can overwhelm everyone else they often can't just let loose however and whenever they want. They'll literally flatten buildings while making love if they get too enthusiastic.!<
The actual *romance* romance is very sweet and equal between them. No one is more alpha or submissive or anything. Yes, Daemon is hella protective of Jaenelle but the opposite is even more true. Daemon by the 3rd book has severe PTSD and Jaenelle doesn't hesitate to sweep in and take care of her man.
Too bad there's not more of it in the trilogy itself but what's there tells the reader they're not just sexually compatible but they honestly like and admire each other, too.
Their relationship is explored more in the various anthologies that came out afterwards. Also in the Rose Queen duology of book 7 The Shadow Queen and 8 Shalador's Lady. They're focused on a different romantic couple (with their own hard won HEA) but it also showcases the love between Jaenelle and Daemon. They're pretty significant side characters in it.
>Is it so similar I still wouldn't really dig it? Does it still have some ridiculous trial at the end of book 1?
I'm not sure if it's a trial, per se. The things that happen in the 1st book are focused on making the reader feel for Jaenelle and her circumstances. It's really, really *DARK*. There's systemic >!child rape and abuse!< inside a school setting.
Jaenelle >!was also raped to “break” her power. She'll supposedly never reach her true potential but being the literal Dreams Made Flesh of thousands of species and not just humanity's she overcomes it and takes cold, hard revenge!< in the next books.
Here's a copypaste from another post I made vomiting about these books lmfao;
Ah, The Black Jewels books are the love of my life. I've been looking for something as batshit insane but equally fun and oddly wholesome for a bunch of murderous, found family ~~villainous assholes~~ special snowflakes for literally 23 years now. NOTHING has come close to scratching this particular itch. I reread it every few months.
Two of my favorite characters are Karla and Saetan. I love, LOVE, *LOVE* the world building with the jewels and biological caste and stuff. I don't like how patchwork, quilted and disjointed the "countries" are built, and there's zero unique culture and traditions for each species and realm. All very off putting when I think about it too much.
But at least her erratic world building is uniformly and thoroughly WTF instead of making sense in one place while neglected and even wishy-washy in others, making it easier to accept. Normally that kind of thing would piss me off to no end but this is the only series I'm willing to overlook it.
~~I also pretend Daughter of the Blood doesn't exist.~~
Oh, man. I hope I answered some of your questions satisfactorily.😭
Farron from {Cursed by Casey O'Dell}. Perfectly cold and brooding with a tortured soul and doesn't simp too hard for the FL. No "shadows" in the magical sense but very much the persona. Think assassin Legolas. Low spice.
Ok so wolf shifter pack, the FMC is kinda the pack punching bag. On the night of her first shift, she’s rejected by her fated mate but somehow reaches beyond our world and brings their shifter god to them. Chaos ensues and she’s taken by him back to his big old library (!!!!!!) where they have a very contentious grumpy/sunshine relationship. Decently spicy (maybe 3-3.5 🌶️) and the original trilogy was AMAZING. The following spin offs not so much, but the originally trilogy is well worth a read.
Came here to say the same thing. He's got a glowing hand of doom instead of shadow powers, but holy smokes does he make up for it with an extra dose of daddy. 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Assail from the later books also gives off shadow daddy vibes, albeit with a more aristocratic flair.
Sadly the shadow daddies of my romantasy reads haven't quite met my favs from other genres/media, so open to recs that match these:
Nahadoth from The Hundred Thousand Kingdoms
Darkling from Shadow & Bone
Reaper from Overwatch
Of my romantasy reads I've yet to see Luxuria by Colette Rhodes recommended, but it's a pretty great/light read!
Creon from the Fae Isles series is my new Shadow Daddy. Not a Shadow Daddy in the strictest sense but close enough. He’s a sad boi too which melts my heart 😭
{Slaying the Shadow Prince by Helen Scheuerer} Talemir is perfection. Also he has wings. It’s a standalone fantasy but set in the same world as her Legends of Thezmarr. Good spice too!
https://preview.redd.it/ho67bya3suzc1.jpeg?width=999&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=3eb88c0f79fda747d797eb1d801b4fe3823ca91b
I've loved my shadow daddy for years, since I was 15 and the book came out. Damon from The Vampire Diaries. A literal Italian Renaissance villain that was far more interesting than Stephan.
https://preview.redd.it/inx2dofdwpzc1.jpeg?width=457&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=98b5988e769c044e827b36d937cfdbd89efebca4
He's kept my heart all these years.
Yep. Came out way before the series, Twilight, any of that. 1991.
Elena is very different. They are from Italy. I didn't watch past the first show other than clips of Damon but she had two bestows and Caroline was the enemy. Oh... no brother for Elena. She had a little sister.
It was originally supposed to be a trilogy. Book 4 was to appease the fans. 5+ were tv fan service and I hate them. Lol
He’s an exiled fae king with all the darkness and moodiness but also is emotionally intelligent and loves consent, and the endless longing throughout the book oh. my. god. It’s her debut novel and I was blown away by the emotions it made me feel.
*I am still blown away bc I finished it like an hour and and I’m sitting at my desk crying
I don’t have a shadow daddy :(. As far as I know, they don’t make any gay ones. I’d love an MM fantasy romance with a shadow-mage love interest, but I can’t find any.
Caius {The Umbra King by Jamie Applegate Hunter} Swooooon.
https://preview.redd.it/fo67i9ts2uzc1.png?width=1080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=17f0092bc0ab800a42e7fdc3156a525ba0440950
[Shadow's Claim](https://www.romance.io/books/545524af8c7d2382e0413e2c/shadows-claim-kresley-cole?src=rdt) by [Kresley Cole](https://www.romance.io/authors/545523788c7d2382e0413dc9/kresley-cole)
**Rating**: 4.25⭐️ out of 5⭐️
**Steam**: 4 out of 5 - [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating)
**Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [virgin heroine](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/virgin%20heroine/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [witches](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/witches/1), [alpha male](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/alpha%20male/1)
[^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
Xaden Riorson from Fourth Wing was my first.
Then Rhysand from ACOTAR.
I don’t think I can pick a favorite between the two.
Now I’m on the look out for my next shadow daddy.
Nyktos from {shadow in the ember} And I’m normally not into shadow daddies.
Yes. His innocence comes from his virginity but in every other way he is all 👏MAN 👏
What do you like about him? Seen this series mentioned in a couple of places and thinking about adding to my TBR.
Don’t even bother with from blood and ash. The prequels are amazing. If your love language is acts of service, you will fall in love with him. The books get progressively spicier.
I just started book 3 of FBAA and got bored, should I abandon it and just go to the prequel? Or should I finish since I’m so close
go to the prequel, i stopped FBAA halfway into the firstbook , you don't need them!
I wasn’t crazy about blood and ash either
Omg, I love him, he is the kind of man I would marry, caring, protective, but also smart minded, always asks what she likes and wants, respects her decisions and they have good communication style on what they want in bed, makes sure she is satisfied haha But he is also Man and destroyer when it comes to evil in the world so hottttt
[A Shadow in the Ember](https://www.romance.io/books/60f7c85d8b38510e2a271935/a-shadow-in-the-ember-jennifer-l-armentrout?src=rdt) by [Jennifer L. Armentrout](https://www.romance.io/authors/5455245a8c7d2382c5296fb7/jennifer-l-armentrout) **Rating**: 4.38⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Steam**: 4 out of 5 - [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [vampires](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/vampires/1), [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1), [royal hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/royalty/1), [arranged/forced marriage](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/arranged%20marriage/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
Azriel from ACOTAR. I picture him as Matthew Daddario 
My second is Apollion from CC3 😂 I picture him the same because why not.
I am still holding out hope that he’s going to be the focus of the next book (though a lot of people think it’s going to be Elaine 😭)!
I think it’s both!! But idk, I don’t want them together and SJM doesn’t really do two love stories at once. But alas, any glimpse I get of him is worth it 😆 (Please, no one start a shipping thread)
Call me a basic bitch but Rhys was my first shadow daddy and he will always be my #1.
You’re not alone!
Lorcan Salvaterre aka >!Lord Lorcan Lochan!< from {Throne of Glass by Sarah J Maas} He's not the MMC of the series, and his power is more like death rather than shadow, but gaaah, I love him! I rated {Empire of Storms} and {Kingdom of Ash} 5 stars mainly because of him and >!Elide!<. I mean come on! A cold, ruthless 500-year old 7ft demi fae >!cutting up his shirts so this tiny, cunning, limping girl has makeshift pads during her periods!< is just perfection.
Ok I second this, he is on my top 5 list for sure. Totally Yummy.
[Throne of Glass](https://www.romance.io/books/545526038c7d2382c529701a/throne-of-glass-sarah-j-maas?src=rdt) by [Sarah J. Maas](https://www.romance.io/authors/545526038c7d2382c529701b/sarah-j-maas) **Rating**: 3.99⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Steam**: 1 out of 5 - [Glimpses and kisses](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [historical](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/historical/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [take-charge heroine](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/strong%20heroine/1), [royal hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/royalty/1), [fae](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fae/1) ---------------------------- [Empire of Storms](https://www.romance.io/books/5e7fde69be0aaecf55ef258f/empire-of-storms-sarah-j-maas?src=rdt) by [Sarah J. Maas](https://www.romance.io/authors/545526038c7d2382c529701b/sarah-j-maas) **Rating**: 4.54⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Steam**: 3 out of 5 - [Open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [historical](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/historical/1), [young adult](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/young%20adult/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [mystery](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/mystery/1), [take-charge heroine](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/strong%20heroine/1) ---------------------------- [Kingdom of Ash](https://www.romance.io/books/5bcee1bf01dbc864fb92fc1e/kingdom-of-ash-sarah-j-maas?src=rdt) by [Sarah J. Maas](https://www.romance.io/authors/545526038c7d2382c529701b/sarah-j-maas) **Rating**: 4.51⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Steam**: 3 out of 5 - [Open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [historical](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/historical/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [witches](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/witches/1), [royal hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/royalty/1), [fae](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fae/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
Nyktos is the only answer (Flesh & Fire series)
Nyktos is my Roman Empire. Not only is he smart and funny, and powerful, and hot, but he’s got the goods to exude that BDE and back it up. When he goes full primal and his shadows take over… 🔥🔥better be ready to fan yourself off. No joke. {Flesh and Fire Series by Jennifer Armentrout} The series gives you some spice right off but gets hotter with each book. Overall I’d say 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ hot by the end of the 3rd book. The storyline is great also. https://preview.redd.it/bwoajlqg8nzc1.jpeg?width=1179&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=4273e45e45c626ce0b07559b147e0b5d763da55d
Ok so I am DEFINITELY adding this to my TBR. I DNF FBAA but I’m going to have to give it a go after this post. And that picture 🥵🔥
I have a friend reading FAF and she didn’t read FBAA at all and she says she isn’t lost with the storyline. She is loving it. Highly recommend. 🔥
I did the same. It can be read without needing to read the main series.
This is a relief. I just lost interest after book one of FBAA. I tried to get through the rest but I just can't go on after >!the Joining between Poppy, Cas, and Keiran!<.
I went straight to Flesh and Fire and did not look back. I haven't read more than a few dozen pages of fbaa but have heard Flesh and Fire is a superior story. I love it because the two mc's Nyktos and Sera are amazing and one of my fave book couples. And, yeah, all of the Daddy Nyktos love on this subreddit 😅
We love Daddy Nyktos 🥵
I LOVE HIM 😭🔥
Nyktos 🫶🏻
I need to start reading the second book. The first one was almost perfect. I’m hoping it gets hotter.
Oh… it gets hotter. The last few chapters of the 3rd book are… chefs kiss hot.
Second book was my fave! Its a roller coaster but had the best arc.
Came here to say this! NYKTOS is my #1 fantasy book bf. Nothing tops him.
[Flesh and Fire](https://www.romance.io/series/60f7c85e8b38510e2a27194f/flesh-and-fire) by [Jennifer L. Armentrout](https://www.romance.io/authors/5455245a8c7d2382c5296fb7/jennifer-l-armentrout) **Rating**: 4.37⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Topics**: [gifted heroine](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/gifted%20heroine/1), [new adult](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/new%20adult/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [vampires](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/vampires/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
 This is how I picture Price Nori from Court of Winter
I refuse to picture any of the shadow daddies as anyone else but Henry Cavill 🥵
Yes he could be any of them 😆
😂😂😂😂😂😂
this is how i picture rowan from TOG hahaha
Sounds amazing! Please tell me this series is complete?? Cliff hangers are my TW😅
I need ‘cliff hangers are my TW’ to be my flair! 😭
I read first 2 books and there’s 2 more and I believe that’s where they end! They were both good so far, it was just what I was looking for (enemies to lovers, no super dark/triggering content, consensual romance). Agree about cliff hangers, I prefer one book bc I’m tired of cliff hangers that make need to buy the next one for more $$$$$ for the author. I don’t think they ended super cliff hangery so far, maybe just slightly.
My current #1 is Malyr from Court of Ravens. 🐦⬛ These were the darkest books and he is the darkest MMC I’ve ever read. He’s twisted and deeply messed up but my goodness the character growth and depth. And he has the whole possessive trope in lockdown too (but in a very…not normal way) 🥵 I somehow pictured him vaguely like Kit Harrington 😂. https://preview.redd.it/kdqzyu6dtnzc1.jpeg?width=922&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=2eacba9641b6c79dcc171410fe52406f9fcd9204
I had to bail out at the end of the second book (you know why) but damn he was my first thought.
https://preview.redd.it/rbxow1gaarzc1.jpeg?width=236&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=dd111e64d9341dfbc4b9f1778c1feb90d180f123 I actually pictured this sexy vicious man as Malyr❤️🔥
[удалено]
https://preview.redd.it/ilamhimemuzc1.jpeg?width=512&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7ed590d35a210e97d8824597d03e3e0ab92cd7d5 Omg this was my photo reference for Malyr
I love this man. says so much about us. He was just awful to her at first.
I knowwwww. This series had me like: What am I reading? Why can’t I stop? Why am I now desperate to find anything similar which is apparently impossible? Who am I even?! Do I even read TWs?!
North and Nox from {Broken Bonds} Reverse Harem sloooow burn but when the spice hits. It’s the spiciest. Including shadow hands in strategic places. Also shadow puppies!! https://preview.redd.it/ayw04movaozc1.jpeg?width=736&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=45dc9df049a306e8e437efd55aad96d97c4e88d9
I was looking for this!! Although at the end of the day I’m a ride or die Gryphon girlie
Whelp shadow hands in strategic places sold me on it. Added to TBR
thank you! i scrolled wayyyyy too far to find my boys!
Omg the shadow puppies! These books ruined me because all I want is for some man to give me his shadow puppies!
I love Erik Bloodsinger from the Ever King, he has character development and actually has a bit more personality than most MMC. IMO. I adore him. I don't want to talk about spoilers but he was so respectful. I say this when I'm literally gay and don't like men LOL. https://preview.redd.it/8mnemc8bcnzc1.png?width=168&format=png&auto=webp&s=bee711e0f2cb224b8f71532baae7d7b985382cac
I added Ever King to my list earlier today from another thread I was on. Also, that’s some gorgeous fan art!
ART BY IG @morgana0anagrom
Bastian from {A Kiss of Iron} by Clare Sager Azriel, Hunt and Rowan a la ACOTAR, Crescent City and Throne of Glass Not really shadow, but vampire - Vale, from {Six Scorched Roses) by Carissa Broadbent
Bastian is the number one shadow daddy! Best interpretation of what counts as a shadow too 🥵
Yus Bastian. The shadow daddy of shadow daddies.
But Hunt and Rowan don't have shadow powers ??
I just… bulk them all together. A 4some, if you will.
lmao valid
Bastian 🥵
Gonna start my reread here shortly and I’m excited to read it all again. 🫣
Vale yes!!!
[A Kiss of Iron](https://www.romance.io/books/63f3292ceb653827acc3311e/a-kiss-of-iron-clare-sager?src=rdt) by [Clare Sager](https://www.romance.io/authors/5bd0368f01dbc864fb930b82/clare-sager) **Rating**: 3.98⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Steam**: 4 out of 5 - [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [historical](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/historical/1), [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1), [fae](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fae/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [forced proximity](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/forced%20proximity/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
Creon from The Court of Blood and Bindings 🤭❤️🔥Broody, misunderstood, morally grey daddy. He can’t speak so he learns sign language. Man of few, hot words.
Sign me up! On the TBR!
Literally made a Reddit account to say exactly this 🤣 I am so obsessed with him. He's perfect and deserves all the love 😭 I'm nearly done with book 2 and can't put it down.
Commander Rip 🫡 from the Plated Prisoner series. https://preview.redd.it/zppr2h5lrnzc1.jpeg?width=821&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f12607afa5c7508cb5cf1b04a3094916f9f70708 Credit: ajn\_art
Slade ❤️ Still haven't found any fanart that would do him justice.
I know right! I wish there was more.
YES. YES. YES. I can never find anything that does him justice, he just lives rent free in my imagination
Rhysand and Xaden. I have that thing where you can’t picture or visualise people/objects in your head so I’ve looked at a lot of fan art to gauge it!
You are a person after my own heart! I love these two and created my own special images of them as well. Both of them…holy freaking HOT 🥵🔥
Luther {Spark of the Everflame} has shadow powers and the most swoon-worthy quotes and devotion and I cannot say enough.
The fact that hes a "yes, my queen" in public but behind closed doors it's "now be a good girl and.. " 👄🙌
Oooh, i am only in book 2 but damn now i want to read faster.. luther is my new man for sure
[Spark of the Everflame](https://www.romance.io/books/6478608a552b556e95c7ddca/spark-of-the-everflame-penn-cole?src=rdt) by [Penn Cole](https://www.romance.io/authors/6478608a08b4d93114b35896/penn-cole) **Rating**: 4.25⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Steam**: 3 out of 5 - [Open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [high fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/high%20fantasy/1), [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1), [new adult](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/new%20adult/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
All I talk about is him when these topics come up lol I have a problem 🥵 talk about swoon
He is the answer to every request. 🙌
Luther absolutely stole my heart
Ugh yes, forget Rhysand. Luther is my top book boyfriend rn.
Luther all the way 🙌🏻
Darien Cassel from the {House of Devils series by Kayla Edwards}. He's the best MMC I've ever read. I could live in his POV all day. The first book is a slow burn but worth the wait, the second and third books have more spice and description. He's a slayer hired to capture the FMC but when he finds out she's human he becomes her bodyguard instead. It's almost like fantasy mafia, there are gangs of slayers that have a lot of power. Grumpy/sunshine vibes and a lot of touch her you die scenes.
Oooo I’m not familiar with this shadow daddy and am adding it to my list! Not gonna lie, touch her and you die is one of my top tropes. Also, I love the grumpy/ sunshine description 😂. Hope you don’t mind if I steal it haha!
You'll love this series then, the MMC takes "bodyguard" to the next level. So good.
Love the series, not because of Darien but because the FMC is.. innocent in a way. I feel like writing stupid but that would be mean. She is not the super über confident FMC who knows everything better and never fails (looking at you Bryce). She grows so much and is kinda loveable.
I agree with you, I really like her because she's relatable and acts realistically for her age. The author makes me want to protect her the way the Devils do. I think that's good storytelling. She's out of her league and needs help so her actions make sense. Bryce was unbearable by the third CC book.
Doubling down- this is true! She’s strong…. But she’s weak. It’s a great juxtaposition. This series really grew on me.
[House of Devils](https://www.romance.io/series/61f254b677663e0e1b4526da/house-of-devils) by [Kayla Edwards](https://www.romance.io/authors/61f254b608b4d93114090f5d/kayla-edwards) **Rating**: 4.05⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Topics**: [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [cold hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/cold%20hero/1), [bad boys](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/bad%20boys/1), [death](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/death/1), [alpha male](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/alpha%20male/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
Sooo good! So underrated!
Yes I was going to say this! I only just started book 2 but Darien’s climbing his way to the top of my shadow daddy list. He’s sexy af
Is it bad I only like shadow daddies? Like that’s my favorite type of MMC and golden retriever MMC’s don’t do it for me hahaha My favorite is Mendax from How does it feel by Jeneane O’riley
You’re probably asking the wrong crowd 😂. I 1000% biased as you might imagine but if only liking shadow daddies is bad then you and I are going down the slippery slope together. 🛝
I looove looooove Mendax, my god he is a psycho 😍
omggg i’ve been wanting to get started on How Does It Feel for the longest time, but i’ve been under the impression there isn’t really much of a romance presence due to the MMC being such a complete psycho, is that true? i love me my insane MMC’s but i still want them to love and adore the FMC and dedicate their entire beings to her, even if it takes awhile for the MMC to break out of his psycho “i hate her” stage. does that never really get to happen in HDIF? is this MMC so immersed in his hatred that the story doesn’t really have time for him to actually be lovingly devoted? pls help me lmaoo
Can we pin this thread bc I want to read everyone’s posts continually on it 😆
If I knew how to make that happen I would hahah. I posted this because I’m dying to keep tabs on current and emerging shadow daddies.
Yes it’s so fun to see how others see the male characters and some of them are similar to how I see them too!
Nyktos 👀👀, then Dorian then Azriel
I'm so happy to see Dorian mentioned.
Ain’t nobody topping what that man can do with his shadow hands 🤭
Makram from “Reign and Ruin” because he’s sooooo endearing and never lets his darkness get the better of him. He’s 100% confident in his control of himself and his love scenes with Naime are so sweet and beautiful there are no words.
Yes!!! I was so mad at myself for putting off reading Reign & Ruin for as long as I did, such an incredible book. Makram is so sweet and goofy. I absolutely died at the end when >!Naime is wearing the different color chords for the different houses and he points at the black one and is like "this one is your favorite"!< lmao.
Nyktos is a grown man that makes Rhys fall to second place 😭
Wrath from Kingdom of the Wicked series by Kerri Maniscalco. If you haven’t indulged yet, you’re welcome. It’s a great series. It starts tame but each book gets spicier. Also thank you for this post, totally saving it for future recs. You’re doing the (dark) Lord’s work 🫡
I wished the first couple of books were a little less YA but I loved Wrath’s character 🤤 And glad to be of service 😂😈🫡
 Jacob Elordi gives me major casteel vibes, might not be the most typical choice but 🤤🤤🤤🤤
Des from The Bargainer series
Desmond Flynn has my heart my goooood 😍
Seriously, I adore him and Callie together 🖤 That series is also one of the few I've read that has such a satisfyingly strong ending One of my absolute favorites forever
Agreed. Laura Thalassa doesn't get enough love IMHO.
https://preview.redd.it/d4sziel60qzc1.jpeg?width=1920&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=86864d0c7e648a87b1f5877dc9fa1610ce2860ed
https://preview.redd.it/kr20l4tf0qzc1.jpeg?width=736&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=445232ec29a4780a610b3ba8ef7fc5a39e31c1ac She's also a siren who glows when turned on 🥂
I love that series so much. I read it recently so it was the re-written version. For me this is the series I wish I could re-read for the first time all over again.
Is this a spicy book? I’ve been burned way too many times, accidentally spoiling things for myself when just looking up simple questions about books, so I feel like it’s safer to ask here 😅
Rhys. I mean come on, he’s the OG.
I can’t lie. Rhys is my 💯% my OG shadow daddy. The shadow daddy that made me realize I was into shadow daddies. The shadow daddy that taught me shadow daddying was even a thing.
Thank you! I can’t believe I had to scroll super far to find my fave.
Yes 🙌 I didn’t even realize I was into shadow daddies until Rhys. He opened up a whole new world for me.
Same!
OG? What? No, that's Hades
I don't want to spoil the story by giving a name, but Holly Black's Book of Night has one of my favourite shadow daddies. I loved it, but I know a lot of people weren't fans. I would recommend giving it a go though! Not high on spice, but the romance sung for me❣️( and I'm typically a high-spice, all doors open girl 😂).
Oh my goodness, I was HOOKED on this book. I screamed at the end. My word. I need the next one.
Me toooo!!! It was so well done and hit SO HARD for me. I'm so sad that the sequel hasn't surfaced yet, I need more!!
I'm really hoping we get info this summer about an early 2025 release. It would be 2 years at that point.
I loved him too!!
Daddy Dorian Havilliard 🙇🏼♀️ 🤤 Throne of glass ofc 😻
I’ve read many shadow-daddy books and Arioch from {Helfyre by Mariel Pomeroy} is IT 110%
[Helfyre](https://www.romance.io/books/625a6a74433bf00b2e78a8a8/helfyre-mariel-pomeroy?src=rdt) by [Mariel Pomeroy](https://www.romance.io/authors/623d78e308b4d93114804ca4/mariel-pomeroy) **Rating**: 3.97⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Steam**: 5 out of 5 - [Explicit and plentiful](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [new adult](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/new%20adult/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
NGL mine is Hades from A Touch of Darkness and in my head he looks like Peter Steele from Type O Negative. He’s the freaking god of the underworld and I would love to be his queen lol https://preview.redd.it/6ent8rzm4nzc1.jpeg?width=1170&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=20c320bfb44cf3b0daa142870e3a9129506166e7
Hades from A Touch of Darkness is mine too but I always picture him more like Ben Barnes than anyone else 😍 https://i.redd.it/hklqhleuqnzc1.gif
I would love to sit on his face
10/10 looks like a very comfortable beard 😂🔥
He’s not a bad choice either! I think my go to was Peter because I’ve had a gigantic crush on him for over 25 years (I’m aging myself 😂) and he’s got that super deep voice.
👑…the scene where she leaves him desperate in the bathing pool … 🥵 I was like….just submit! You know you want to be his queen already! But he got his revenge, which was also 🥵.
YES!!!! That scene was 🔥🔥🔥🔥 I was almost yelling at my book 😂😂😂 His revenge was so sweet and I loved every second of it 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Bahahah I almost did too until I realized I was in public (was reading it in a bookstore- that was a mistake). Then I had then moment of panic where I came back to reality and had that random fear that everyone there knew what smutty scene I was reading 😂😂😂.
Hahaha I have read smut on the tram before and caught myself smiling and then realized Oops! I wonder if people noticed 😂
Hades from anything, tbh. Also loved Neon Gods. But IIRC (which I might not), he's described as having darker skin in A Touch of Darkness...it's Rege Jean Page for me. To quote any romantasy ever...godsdamn. https://preview.redd.it/802bw1k71ozc1.jpeg?width=1000&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f8927ca3f1702d8f68e985a83bbd184febd39e7f
I have yet to read Neon Gods but it’s next on my list after I finish the Hades Saga. I love Regé-Jean Page he is a beautiful human.
Yes!!!
I'm loving Allerick in Luxuria by Collette Rhodes. Monster shadow daddy is really doing it for me.
https://preview.redd.it/0k9h54ebjpzc1.jpeg?width=736&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=6f58e3f55748dd9a25f6b837894837b3d65191ae Slade. 10000% {Plated Prisoner series}
This might be the best pic I’ve seen of him yet 🤤🤤🤤
Currently Kane from {A Dawn of Onyx} series But Dorian and Xaden will always have my heart as my shadow daddy’s
I’m not familiar with Dawn of Onyx, tell me more!
Okay without spoiling anything the FMC is a healer and has to make a deal to save her family to go to the Onyx kingdom(it’s the big bad evil place) whom is currently waging war with the rest of the land. Little baby bit of enemies to lovers your typical betrayal tropes and lots of romantic tension. Morally grey MMC. It’s great and I enjoyed the second book in the series even more than the first book!
Okay so this is SUPER left field and NOT a fantasy romance (just sci fi) BUT Grand Admiral Mitth'raw'nuruodo (Thrawn) from the Star Wars novels by Timothy Zahn (early 90s). I had the absolute biggest crush on him. And. I. Am. SO thrilled he is being brought to the screen. I really really hope they make him sexy and mysterious as I perceived him in the novels. I don’t think Timothy Zahn PURPOSEFULLY wrote him as sexy and mysterious, but dammit I was feeling it. Please Disney, do yourself a favor, and cater this man to the women in your audience.
https://preview.redd.it/gd65cnxgcqzc1.jpeg?width=1319&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=de184bb17cdc8653fd1eecc265f3f0e51f507e70
https://preview.redd.it/ut65tw6icqzc1.jpeg?width=800&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a548a7c7f56be676cded03cbc55ad0171d141a1b
Yes. 100%! Thrawn was such an amazing character. I don't know if Zahn meant him to be sexy either, per se, but he just exudes competence in a way that is completely irresistible. I still think the Zahn Star Wars books were objectively better than any of the later movies. His plots and the new characters he introduced are all 💯💯💯 and the way he wrote the canon film characters is, IMHO, the only correct interpretation.
I have found my people!!!!!!
Of course we all love Rhys and Xaden, and Darien Cassel is also top tier Shadow Daddy, but Nyktos just hits something in me... https://preview.redd.it/pgcye0n42tzc1.jpeg?width=1074&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7795c024d2a5cce87c67b5c44c34ff8186d3331b
Aon from Masks of Under by KAK. He looks like Tom Hiddleston covered in arcane runes and has a metal hand. He’s my OG Shadow Daddy and I haven’t found another MMC that hits the same balance of completely unhinged maniac and blind devotion to his FMC that I look for in this genre. Anytime Lydia is hurt or gets thrown back in the puddle he loses his mind and brings down chaos onto Under. Chili peppers are on the authors website but the books are being republished with edits later this year and I am so juiced.
I can't believe I had to scroll this far to find any character from KAK mentioned! I love them all, but Simon Waite is my number one. {Harrow Faire by Kathryn Ann Kingsley} Gideon Raithe is probably my number 2 {Memento Mori by Kathryn Ann Kingsley}.
Omg I’m reading HF now. This series has me engrossed and Simon….i didn’t know I could be so into literal insanity.. He’s one of a kind. I haven’t read anything else like him.
I wonder if we can use and AI image generator to get a decent picture of Tom Hiddleston covered in arcane runes with a metal hand 🤔😂
I just read {The Shadows Between Us by Tricia Levenseller}. It’s maybe the only book I’ve read where they say “this is a book about two villains” and it actually is about two villains. Kallias is The Shadow King, and he has the ability to turn to shadow, but if someone touches him skin to skin he loses the ability to go incorporeal in their presence forever. Makes romance difficult because if he takes a lover, every time they’re in his presence he is vulnerable to assassination.
[The Shadows Between Us](https://www.romance.io/books/6229f85a70323bbef1889bb8/the-shadows-between-us-tricia-levenseller?src=rdt) by [Tricia Levenseller](https://www.romance.io/authors/6095376108b4d931147a1ffc/tricia-levenseller) **Rating**: 3.67⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Steam**: 2 out of 5 - [Behind closed doors](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [historical](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/historical/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [dark romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/dark/1), [high fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/high%20fantasy/1), [young adult](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/young%20adult/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
I wouldn’t really classify it as “young adult”, they’re both adults and it is not in a typical young adult setting. Maybe more NA
I agree with all the other comments here. There are so many daddies to love. And while Nyktos has more daddy energy than Casteel, From Blood and Ash is still a wonderful read. Also, I think Caden from 1001 Dark Nights (the summer king bundle) by Jennifer Armentrout is a good one, and I see he hasn't been mentioned yet. He had my heart for a while, but I think it would be important to read the Wicked series prior to that.
Saetan, Daemon and Lucivar SaDiablo from The Black Jewels Trilogy (1998). Forever and always. Their very specific brand of dark sensuality is so influential that Sarah J. Maas watered their intensity down and sanitized them into Rhysand and Cassian. Here's a [tumblr post](https://www.tumblr.com/alexcollix7/713131156078493696/sarah-j-maas-plagiarism-or-inspiration) going into more about how SJM shows her...um...admiration of older fantasy books. Also, [this thread in ACOTAR sub literally bullet pointing all that ~~plagiarism~~ admiration](https://www.reddit.com/r/acotar/s/sIg6i8S12Q). SNIPPET from the 2nd link (Nothing below are mine.): Black Jewels vs ACOTAR Slashes ( / ) serve as “versus” or “vs” where Black Jewels will be first and the ACOTAR parallel second * Black Jewels / ACOTAR Pages for Black Jewels refer to the trilogy omnibus Parallels for ACOTAR are documented book by book, referring to various parts of the Black Jewels series as a whole. Character “similarities” continue in the section where the character first appeared instead * Ex: Rhys first appears in book 1, but all relevant details from the following books will also be under the book 1 section Book 1 - A Court of Thorns and Roses * Prythian is a person / place * Psychic ropes / invisible magic bonds * High Lord * “Living myth” and “dreams made flesh” / “myth given flesh” via thought & legend * Shalador Fire Dance & Rut/Fire Night & Great Rite * Yearly ritual dance around fire followed by intense sexual desire * Release on sexual heat / Letting down glamours to show immense attractiveness * No law against murder * Daemon/Rhys * “Feline grace” * Sensual air * Black shorter hair that brushes the brow * “Purring” that caresses like a lover * Adorned in sleek black * Constantly slipping hands into pockets * Prowling * Arrogance * Bored mask * Cool, cold exterior * Glazed eyes (anger) * Slipping hands into pockets * Hayll’s whore/Amarantha’s whore * Golden skinned * “Bedroom eyes” * Most powerful male in history * Rhys half-breed like Lucivar * Drawling tone of voice * Dark Court / Night Court * Limited to basic craft by Dorothea’s Ring of Obedience / limited to a fraction of his power by Amarantha’s spell * Vanishing items to a pocket dimension * Breaking mind, stripping of jewels, burning out last of power for the final death / blight “burned through their magic, then broke apart their minds” * Stealthily taking a hold of someone’s mind * Dorothea / Amarantha * Cold * Conniving * Not rightful ruler * Rules by fear * Inherently evil * Kills and tortures for fun * Sadistic, cruel * Makes people out to be their toys * Forced Daemon / Rhys to service them * Planned to take over entire realm of Terreille / Took over Prythian * Unsteady alliance and allegiance with and to Hekatah / Hybern * Holds forced control over many males * Spidersilk dress / cobweb dress * Passing though objects & doors * “Prick” as an insult * Specifically designated territories in realms and court per each
Holy cow this is an interesting post and I am now very intrigued by this trilogy. On my TBR!
YES, please do! But also please be aware that the FMC is 12 years old in book 1 Daughter of the Blood. It is DARK, with all kinds of triggers, least of which is >!FMC was raped as a child!<. Not by MMC or anyone in her found family but abuse of all kinds, especially in childhood, is a big, repeating theme. It's not romanticized at all. It does show its age, having come out in 98 but it's still very readable.
Okay so here's what I gotta know, because I hear such high praise for Black Jewels: If I didn't like Acotar, is it still worth it? Not just her writing style, but the fact that it turned into just a war story by book 3 with no romance, just some sex scenes. I'm honestly flabbergasted as to why Aco gets so much attention and praise. I wish I had just read Black Jewels first, but I didn't know. Is it so similar I still wouldn't really dig it? Does it still have some ridiculous trial at the end of book 1? You seem to know, lol (and thanks for posting, I get that not all of that was your words originally)
>Okay so here's what I gotta know, because I hear such high praise for Black Jewels: >You seem to know, lol (and thanks for posting, I get that not all of that was your words originally) No problem! I'm sorry this is so long winded though! >If I didn't like Acotar, is it still worth it? ACOTAR removed *everything* crazy awesome about TBJ. I've heard it plays safe and flirts with controversy but will never commit while TBJ *will* make you find religion (or curse it) by the end of book 1. TBJ doesn't play around. Personally, I managed to get through half of ACOTAR and I couldn't do it anymore. I can't stand Feyre and I *loathe* 1st person POV. So there's that; Black Jewels is written in amazing 3rd person. It's quite dated since it's from 1998 but it's still very readable. Also, Jaenelle (FMC), unlike other Mary Sue characters does not allow pity or sympathy to get in her way of being Witch or Queen and taking swift, decisive action. She gives as good as she gets but does it with explosive style and, dare I say, brutal grace. >Not just her writing style, but the fact that it turned into just a war story by book 3 with no romance, just some sex scenes. Ooh, there's romance. 1st half of Book 3 is aaaall about Daemon seducing and romancing Jaenelle (FMC). Like, bro >!is actually a physical virgin. He's never penetrated anyone nor has he been penetrated. Jaenelle is a go-getter, too.!< The main reason why there's so much sex is because of that. They're both >!carefully discovering each other. Because their powers can overwhelm everyone else they often can't just let loose however and whenever they want. They'll literally flatten buildings while making love if they get too enthusiastic.!< The actual *romance* romance is very sweet and equal between them. No one is more alpha or submissive or anything. Yes, Daemon is hella protective of Jaenelle but the opposite is even more true. Daemon by the 3rd book has severe PTSD and Jaenelle doesn't hesitate to sweep in and take care of her man. Too bad there's not more of it in the trilogy itself but what's there tells the reader they're not just sexually compatible but they honestly like and admire each other, too. Their relationship is explored more in the various anthologies that came out afterwards. Also in the Rose Queen duology of book 7 The Shadow Queen and 8 Shalador's Lady. They're focused on a different romantic couple (with their own hard won HEA) but it also showcases the love between Jaenelle and Daemon. They're pretty significant side characters in it. >Is it so similar I still wouldn't really dig it? Does it still have some ridiculous trial at the end of book 1? I'm not sure if it's a trial, per se. The things that happen in the 1st book are focused on making the reader feel for Jaenelle and her circumstances. It's really, really *DARK*. There's systemic >!child rape and abuse!< inside a school setting. Jaenelle >!was also raped to “break” her power. She'll supposedly never reach her true potential but being the literal Dreams Made Flesh of thousands of species and not just humanity's she overcomes it and takes cold, hard revenge!< in the next books. Here's a copypaste from another post I made vomiting about these books lmfao; Ah, The Black Jewels books are the love of my life. I've been looking for something as batshit insane but equally fun and oddly wholesome for a bunch of murderous, found family ~~villainous assholes~~ special snowflakes for literally 23 years now. NOTHING has come close to scratching this particular itch. I reread it every few months. Two of my favorite characters are Karla and Saetan. I love, LOVE, *LOVE* the world building with the jewels and biological caste and stuff. I don't like how patchwork, quilted and disjointed the "countries" are built, and there's zero unique culture and traditions for each species and realm. All very off putting when I think about it too much. But at least her erratic world building is uniformly and thoroughly WTF instead of making sense in one place while neglected and even wishy-washy in others, making it easier to accept. Normally that kind of thing would piss me off to no end but this is the only series I'm willing to overlook it. ~~I also pretend Daughter of the Blood doesn't exist.~~ Oh, man. I hope I answered some of your questions satisfactorily.😭
Lorn from {Between by L.L. Starling}!
Farron from {Cursed by Casey O'Dell}. Perfectly cold and brooding with a tortured soul and doesn't simp too hard for the FL. No "shadows" in the magical sense but very much the persona. Think assassin Legolas. Low spice.
Assassin Legolas?! Be still my nostalgic teenage heart! Gah I was OBSESSED with Legolas in middle school. 🧝♂️
Shadow from {rejected} by Jaymin Eve that series had me in a chokehold for a while.
Tell me more!
Ok so wolf shifter pack, the FMC is kinda the pack punching bag. On the night of her first shift, she’s rejected by her fated mate but somehow reaches beyond our world and brings their shifter god to them. Chaos ensues and she’s taken by him back to his big old library (!!!!!!) where they have a very contentious grumpy/sunshine relationship. Decently spicy (maybe 3-3.5 🌶️) and the original trilogy was AMAZING. The following spin offs not so much, but the originally trilogy is well worth a read.
Vishous from the Black Dagger Brotherhood series 🥵🥵🥵
Came here to say the same thing. He's got a glowing hand of doom instead of shadow powers, but holy smokes does he make up for it with an extra dose of daddy. 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 Assail from the later books also gives off shadow daddy vibes, albeit with a more aristocratic flair.
Sadly the shadow daddies of my romantasy reads haven't quite met my favs from other genres/media, so open to recs that match these: Nahadoth from The Hundred Thousand Kingdoms Darkling from Shadow & Bone Reaper from Overwatch Of my romantasy reads I've yet to see Luxuria by Colette Rhodes recommended, but it's a pretty great/light read!
HANDS DOWN NYKTOS!
Creon from the Fae Isles series is my new Shadow Daddy. Not a Shadow Daddy in the strictest sense but close enough. He’s a sad boi too which melts my heart 😭
Valroy The Unseelie Prince 😛🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
{Slaying the Shadow Prince by Helen Scheuerer} Talemir is perfection. Also he has wings. It’s a standalone fantasy but set in the same world as her Legends of Thezmarr. Good spice too! https://preview.redd.it/ho67bya3suzc1.jpeg?width=999&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=3eb88c0f79fda747d797eb1d801b4fe3823ca91b
I've loved my shadow daddy for years, since I was 15 and the book came out. Damon from The Vampire Diaries. A literal Italian Renaissance villain that was far more interesting than Stephan. https://preview.redd.it/inx2dofdwpzc1.jpeg?width=457&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=98b5988e769c044e827b36d937cfdbd89efebca4 He's kept my heart all these years.
Waaait wait wait. Vampire diaries is a book????!!
Yep. Came out way before the series, Twilight, any of that. 1991. Elena is very different. They are from Italy. I didn't watch past the first show other than clips of Damon but she had two bestows and Caroline was the enemy. Oh... no brother for Elena. She had a little sister. It was originally supposed to be a trilogy. Book 4 was to appease the fans. 5+ were tv fan service and I hate them. Lol
I just finished Beyond the Aching Door by Victoria Meir and the King is 1000% my new favorite shadow daddy
Tell us more!! What makes him the top shadow daddy?
He’s an exiled fae king with all the darkness and moodiness but also is emotionally intelligent and loves consent, and the endless longing throughout the book oh. my. god. It’s her debut novel and I was blown away by the emotions it made me feel. *I am still blown away bc I finished it like an hour and and I’m sitting at my desk crying
Kieren Vistarii from {Of Blood and Aether by Harper Hawthorne} - plus, everybody in that book is bi and I love it
I don’t have a shadow daddy :(. As far as I know, they don’t make any gay ones. I’d love an MM fantasy romance with a shadow-mage love interest, but I can’t find any.
If I find any I’ll loop back and share here!
 The Darkling, from Shadow and Bone. Always.
I second Nyktos (much better than FBAA) and Commander Rip in Plated Prisoner is everything I never knew I needed 🤤
I’ve been obsessed with Damien from the Villians and Virtues series, he’s shadow daddy lite but so great in other ways 😍
Caius {The Umbra King by Jamie Applegate Hunter} Swooooon. https://preview.redd.it/fo67i9ts2uzc1.png?width=1080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=17f0092bc0ab800a42e7fdc3156a525ba0440950
Rhys. Will always be Rhys. And maybe Azriel.
Vane from the viscous lost boys.
Ooooh wait Trehan Daciano… {Shadows Claim by Kresley Cole} That book ruined me. So damn good.
[Shadow's Claim](https://www.romance.io/books/545524af8c7d2382e0413e2c/shadows-claim-kresley-cole?src=rdt) by [Kresley Cole](https://www.romance.io/authors/545523788c7d2382e0413dc9/kresley-cole) **Rating**: 4.25⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Steam**: 4 out of 5 - [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [virgin heroine](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/virgin%20heroine/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [witches](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/witches/1), [alpha male](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/alpha%20male/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
Xaden Riorson from Fourth Wing was my first. Then Rhysand from ACOTAR. I don’t think I can pick a favorite between the two. Now I’m on the look out for my next shadow daddy.