20 Erotic Romance Books to Finish 2023 with a Spark!

Dive into a world of passion and desire as we unveil the 20 Best Erotic Romance Books to add a sizzle to your reading list before 2023 bids us adieu.

(This article includes affiliate links. If you choose to buy a product or service through these links, I might earn a small commission at no extra cost to you!)

The Duke Gets Even by Joanna Shupe

Embark on a journey into the enticing world of aristocratic passion with the best erotic romance book that promises a tale of rebellion, desire, and an unexpected connection. Nellie Young, a heiress with a rebellious spirit, deliberately tarnishes her reputation to escape the clutches of an unwanted marriage. In the moonlit waters, she shares an anonymous tryst with a handsome stranger that sets the stage for a clandestine affair.

Enter the Duke of Lockwood, facing dire straits and the looming need to secure his estate through a perfect marriage. In New York, he wears the mask of a proper gentleman, concealing his suppressed desires. However, Nellie pierces through the facade, unveiling the real man beneath. Their secret liaison unfolds into a scorching affair, challenging both of them in unexpected ways. As the flames of passion intensify, Lockwood is confronted with a choice—whether to sacrifice everything for the unconventional cause that binds him to his beautiful rebel. Discover the depths of love, secrecy, and sacrifice in this gripping tale that transcends societal norms.

Grim and Bear It by Juliette Cross

In a narrative where Death itself takes a backseat, Clara Savoie finds herself puzzled by Henry Blackwater’s mysterious affections. Despite her certainty that he harbors deeper feelings, he hesitates to elevate their relationship. Determined to unravel the enigma surrounding Henry, Clara takes a bold step, presenting him with an unconventional invitation, delectable cupcakes, and playful innuendos. As a reluctant participant in the High Tea Romance Book Club, Henry unveils the intricacies of being a necromancer, showcasing to Clara the depth of commitment involved in their supernatural romance.

However, their idyllic world shatters when Henry’s father faces charges of murder, pulling him back into a long-avoided nightmare. Navigating the treacherous waters of his father’s realm, Henry not only jeopardizes his safety but also places in peril the vibrant and captivating Clara, a woman he can no longer envision life without.

The looming danger forces Henry to confront a haunting choice, and their love story unfolds against the backdrop of a supernatural commitment and the looming specter of a threatening past. In this riveting tale, where even Death takes a backseat, Clara and Henry navigate the complexities of love, commitment, and danger, making it a compelling addition to the list of the best erotic romance books.

Powerless by Elsie Silver

Embarking on an unplanned road trip to escape the complexities of life, two childhood friends find themselves at a crossroads. For years, I’ve been relegated to the friend zone, but everything changes as hockey heartthrob Jasper Gervais starts to look at me with more than just friendship in his eyes.

Beyond the image of the talented athlete portrayed on TV, he remains the lost boy with sad eyes and a heart of gold—the man I’ve secretly loved for years. When my life unravels on my wedding day, Jasper becomes the unexpected savior. As we navigate each other’s crises, the lines blur between friendship and something more.

The complexities of our feelings intertwine with the pain of his past and the realities of my present, making Jasper Gervais appear as the embodiment of everything I’ve desired yet thought was out of reach. However, for Jasper to truly win my heart, he must overcome the years of turning me away and prove that his feelings are sincere.

This narrative of love, friendship, and undeniable attraction adds a captivating chapter to the realm of the best erotic romance books.

Beautiful Thorns by Jaymin Eve

In the crescendo of the Boys of Bellerose series, Beautiful Thorns unfurls a riveting finale, embracing the notion that things can always take an unexpected turn for the worse.

As readers immerse themselves in the concluding chapter, a sense of investment in the narrative propels them to close their eyes, hold their breath, and willingly plunge into the twists and turns awaiting.

This culmination promises a journey that is intense and compelling, confirming that the rollercoaster ride will be entirely worthwhile. Beautiful Thorns, the fourth installment of the series, stands as a testament to the complexities of a mafia/rockstar reverse harem romance, enriched with dark elements.

Importantly, readers can breathe easy, as this book ensures a satisfying conclusion without the looming suspense of a cliffhanger. Tailored for a mature audience, Beautiful Thorns encapsulates the essence of the best erotic romance books.

The Sacrifice: A Dark Romance by Shantel Tessier

Embark on a riveting journey into the dark realms of desire with “His Lady,” the latest standalone romance masterpiece by Shantel Tessier, a distinguished USA Today & Wall Street Journal bestselling author.

Set against the backdrop of Barrington University, an exclusive institution for the affluent, the narrative unfolds as a Lord prepares for an obligatory post-graduation marriage, overseen by a Lady tasked with acclimating him to a world oblivious to his secret society. However, exceptions emerge, and fate intertwines their destinies.

The plot delves into a web of vows, entwining the lives of characters bound by societal expectations, wealth, and revenge. As the protagonist, forced into an unwanted union, navigates the treacherous waters of vows and consequences, the narrative promises a rollercoaster of emotions, revealing the complexities of relationships in a world where everyone is a pawn, and the stakes are the highest.

“His Lady” stands as a testament to Tessier’s unparalleled storytelling, cementing its place among the best erotic romance books.

Poison Roses by Jaymin Eve

An all-new, spicy murder mystery from Tessa Bailey, #1 New York Times bestselling author of It Happened One Summer…

It was supposed to be a relaxing vacation in sweet, sunny Cape Cod—just me and my beloved brother—but discovering a corpse in our rental house really throws a wrench into our tanning schedule. Now a rude, crude bounty hunter has arrived on the back of his motorcycle to catch the killer and refuses to believe I can be helpful, despite countless hours of true-crime podcast listening. Not to mention a fulfilling teaching career of wrangling second graders.

A brash bounty hunter and an energetic elementary schoolteacher: the murder-solving team no one asked for, but thanks to these pesky attempts on my life, we’re stuck together, come hell or high tide.

I’m just here to do a job, not babysit an amateur sleuth. Although…it is becoming less and less of a hardship to have her around. Sure, she’s stubborn, distracting and can’t stay out of harm’s way. She’s also brave and beautiful and reminds me of the home I left behind three years ago. In other words, the painful hunger and protectiveness she is waking up in me is a threat to my peace of mind. Before I sink any deeper into this dangerous attraction, I need to solve this murder and get back on the road. But will fate take her from me before I realize the road has been leading to her all along?

Sweet Strings by Aly Beck

In the enigmatic world of rock and redemption, the haunting melodies of Whispered Words once shattered the protagonist, River West. Now, after a five-year hiatus, the band returns, poised to mend the fragments they left behind.

What follows is a tale of love, betrayal, and the intricate dance of broken hearts seeking reconciliation. In the aftermath of a night that changed everything, River’s life took an unexpected turn, marked by lies, restraining orders, and an impending arrival. As she forges ahead, building her empire, a shadowy stranger lurks, weaving a web of ominous intentions. The return of the four boys who once owned her heart complicates the narrative, transforming River into their band manager and boss.

Amidst confessions, shattered secrets, and irreparable truths, River West navigates the tumultuous symphony of Whispered Words, unveiling a story that transcends heartbreak to rediscover wholeness. This riveting journey cements its place among the best erotic romance books, promising a crescendo of emotions and revelations.

God of Ruin by Rina Kent

In the pursuit of retribution, the intricate plot to avenge the wrongs inflicted upon my family took a satisfying turn with a well-executed plan. Yet, the saga doesn’t conclude there. Landon King, an enigmatic genius artist and affluent scion, emerges as an unexpected adversary, turning my life into a high-stakes chess match.

Despite his belief that I’m a mere pawn, I am resolute in proving otherwise. Every move he makes is met with a counterstrike, fueled by a determination to reciprocate the hostility he unleashed. In this intense game of power and passion, Landon threatens ruination, oblivious to the fact that the tide of destruction can flow both ways.

This gripping narrative delves into the realm of the best erotic romance books, promising a rollercoaster of emotions and a fierce dance of wills.

Forgery by Tate James

Dreams. Goals. Plans.

You envision a dream, set a goal, and formulate a plan. I had diligently pursued all of these steps. I was on my way to obtaining my degree, engaging with breathtaking works of art, and unexpectedly falling into bed with my professor.

Yeah, that last bit wasn’t part of the grand scheme, but even I had to admit that it wasn’t an unwelcome deviation.

Ironically, despite my meticulous planning, attention to detail, and even despite my own deceptions, I ended up being the one deceived. Being manipulated and used.

He didn’t desire me for who I was; he merely coveted my connections.

He yearned for me because of my access to his prized painting.

And when he absconded into the night with the piece he’d been willing to betray me for, he shattered my heart.

Except, he got caught, and in doing so he inadvertently revealed my biggest secret.

My forgery.

Blood of My Monster by Rina Kent

In the intricate dance between revenge and a quest for dominance, Kirill and I find ourselves entangled despite our stark differences.

As our paths collide in the military, he emerges as my superior, a figure introducing me to the world of carnage. Beyond his charming facade lies a manipulative, emotionless monster, capable of unraveling my secrets, particularly the reason behind my masquerade as a man.

The unpredictable twists of our encounter thrust me into a perilous journey, where the line between deception and surrender blurs, making this narrative a compelling addition to the realm of the best erotic romance books.

Mad Boys by Heather Long

In the realm of fame, where the pop princess dazzles with her blue hair, alluring lips, and captivating voice, a complicated tale unfolds.

Our connection is woven through the universal language of music, but the complexities of desire and the relentless demands of the world threaten to shatter our fragile bond. The allure of the pop princess extends beyond my reach, as my brothers and the world vie for their share of her spotlight.

She walked away at the end of the school year, leaving me torn between yearning for her return and the desire to erase her from my world. As the intricate layers of this reverse harem story unfold, marked by mature situations and a touch of bullying elements, it solidifies its place among the best erotic romance books, with promises of continued intrigue in the upcoming chapters of this series.

Over My Brother’s Dead Body, Chase Andrews by Piper Rayne

Chase Andrews—Kingmen’s renowned tight end, my brother’s teammate, and the newly minted neighbor who stands as the grumpy counterpart to my sunshine. Beyond the facade of his gruff exterior lies a depth that intrigues me, and as our paths intertwine, I catch glimpses of a side he prefers to conceal.

The more our connection deepens, the more I find myself falling for him, a situation that would be ideal under different circumstances. However, my protective brother stands as a formidable barrier, convinced that no man is worthy of me, while my ex-fiancé lingers, attempting a reconciliation. Faced with the scars of a past heartbreak, the question looms—am I foolish to grant a relationship-averse football player a chance, risking a potential second heartbreak?

As the complexities of love and vulnerability intertwine, this narrative carves its place among the best erotic romance books, offering a tale of emotional twists and daring choices.

The Sweetheart List by Jill Shalvis

In the symphony of life’s sweet moments, the melody weaves through freshly baked bread, the cool embrace of a lake on a scorching day, and the solace found in a charming bookstore. For Harper Shaw, embarking on a journey of rediscovery becomes the key to unlocking the sweetness life has to offer.

Shedding the weight of a soul-sucking job and kale-induced monotony, she ventures to Lake Tahoe, the last haven of happiness she remembers, to breathe life into her dream—opening Sugar Pine Bakery. Nestled between a tavern, owned by the enigmatic Bodie Campbell, and a book haven run by her newfound confidante, Harper finds a serenity she thought was forever lost.

As her path crosses with Ivy, a runaway teen harboring secrets, Harper’s nurturing spirit takes the young girl under her wing. Little does she know, Ivy’s hidden truths will unravel, reshaping Harper’s newfound world. In this tale of second chances and new beginnings, Harper discovers that the sweetness of life is never too late to savor, that unraveling one’s path can lead to unexpected joy, and, above all, that love is a belief worth embracing at any stage.

This narrative effortlessly earns its place among the best erotic romance books, weaving a tapestry of heartwarming moments and poignant revelations.

In Her Highlander’s Bed by Lynsay Sands

After a triumphant battle, Calan Campbell, the formidable Laird of Kilcairn, seeks the refreshing embrace of the loch. Little did he expect his post-victory dip to involve a spirited encounter with a thief absconding with his plaid.

Pursuit leads to a startling revelation—the nimble culprit is not a lad but a lady, and one who now lies unconscious after an inadvertent collision. Taking responsibility, Calan decides to nurse the bruised and disoriented woman back to health, leading to an unexpected twist of fate. Allissaid MacFarlane, kidnapped and compelled into an unwanted union, had risked everything to escape her clan’s adversary.

However, a skirmish over a borrowed plaid leaves her awakening in a strange bed, facing a mysterious man who becomes her unexpected ally. Despite her initial distrust, the more time spent with Calan, the more Allissaid finds herself drawn to the honorable laird. As trust blossoms, a deeper question looms—can she entrust not only her life but also her heart to the man who has emerged as her unexpected protector and confidant?

This tale of unexpected encounters and burgeoning affection seamlessly earns its place among the best erotic romance books, weaving a narrative rich in twists and heartfelt connection.

Brutal by A.J. Merlin

Summer camp: a haven of innocence and joy, or so I thought until the shadows around the lake whispered a different story. As a camp counselor, I was lulled into a false sense of security by the camaraderie of my peers.

However, on the final night at Camp Clearwater, the atmosphere shifts during a counselor celebration. Unbeknownst to us, a lurking stranger emerges, armed with a machete and a disapproval of our presence. When I find myself under attack in the woods, an unexpected savior appears in the form of Wren—a figure both terrifying and possessive, shrouded in unpredictability. Instead of seeking refuge with the authorities, I succumb to the unsettling allure of my enigmatic rescuer.

The question looms: can a ruthless protector find genuine affection, or am I destined to become the next victim in this dark romance? “Brutal,” a standalone in the Pleasure & Prey universe, explores the complexities of love, fear, and the thin line between pleasure and peril, earning its place among the best erotic romance books with its contemporary and chilling narrative.

Madame by Sara Cate

In the realm of dominance and submission, I’ve mastered the art of detachment as a professional Domme. No one lingers, and I prefer it that way—a shield guarding a secret I’ll protect at any cost.

When the beguiling Clay Bradley, both cocky and submissive, infiltrates my defenses, I wield rejection like a skilled weapon, pushing him away permanently. Yet, fate has other plans. Months later, a twist of chance reunites us, only this time, he’s not alone; the captivating Jade accompanies him with a request of her own.

Despite the perilous territory of training a woman who unravels my composure, the situation intensifies as she is romantically entwined with the man who still holds the key to my heart. With the knowledge of my concealed truth, Jade and Clay refuse to release their grip, and I’m left grappling with the dilemma of protecting what’s mine when I’m entangled with those who comprehend the depths beyond Madame—an intricate narrative that positions itself among the best erotic romance books.

Highest Bidder by Sara Cate

Venturing into the opulent world of Salacious Players’ Club, I, a free-spirited pianist in my van-dwelling existence, never envisioned becoming the focal point of a high-stakes auction. Ronan Kade, the epitome of filthy riches, outbids the rest, acquiring my time for a sum beyond imagination.

Despite the vast age and wealth disparity, I succumb to the allure of a date that transmogrifies into a Parisian escapade and an unexpected proposition to cohabit in his penthouse. Unbeknownst to him, Ronan once courted my mother, a secret I guard closely.

As our connection deepens, I find myself entangled in a complex relationship, dubbing him my “daddy.” Yet, can love transcend the chasm of years that separates us, and will Ronan forgive the concealed truth that threatens our newfound happiness? This narrative of unexpected love and secrets emerges as a contender among the best erotic romance books.

Emily Wilde’s Encyclopaedia of Faeries by Heather Fawcett

In the enchanting realm of faerie lore, Cambridge professor Emily Wilde stands out as a luminary. Renowned for her scholarly prowess and the creation of the world’s inaugural encyclopedia on faeries, Emily’s expertise is unrivaled. However, her social prowess pales in comparison, and mingling at parties is not her forte.

With a preference for the company of books, her faithful dog Shadow, and the enigmatic Fair Folk, Emily steels herself for her arrival in the austere village of Hrafnsvik. Unbeknownst to her, this venture will intertwine her fate with the gruff villagers and the charismatic academic competitor, Wendell Bambleby.

While Wendell effortlessly charms the locals and disrupts Emily’s research, their adversarial relationship takes an unexpected turn. As Emily delves into the enigmatic world of the Hidden Ones, the elusive faeries in the shadowy forest, she stumbles upon another mystery—unraveling the true identity and intentions of Wendell Bambleby.

In this tale of mystical secrets and academic rivalry, Emily’s journey holds the key to unveiling not only the Hidden Ones but also the mysteries concealed within her own heart, marking its place among the best erotic romance books.

Loving the Mountain Man by Gemma Weir

In the picturesque town of Rockhead Point, Cody Barnett exudes charm—gorgeous, sweet, and undeniably flirtatious. While he may be the epitome of the perfect guy, my visit to this mountain enclave is solely to reconnect with my sister, not to embark on a romantic escapade. With a boyfriend, a job, and a life miles away, I didn’t anticipate the allure of the Barnett family’s world—a realm brimming with the kind of love I thought only existed in cinematic dreams. As I witness their enchanting bonds, my own understanding of happiness is called into question, especially when a heart-wrenching betrayal leaves me shattered.

In the aftermath, Cody emerges as my steadfast support, ready to be my rock and offer more than just solace. Despite his determination to paint my world with vibrant hues, I resist, recognizing that our connection can only be a fleeting affair. Fueled by the desire to escape, I run from my sister, her newfound family, and the man claiming to be mine. Yet, fate proves relentless, knocking on my door with a revelation—I can’t elude the love of a mountain man, and Cody isn’t prepared to let me slip away, shaping a narrative that finds its place among the best erotic romance books.

Princes of Chaos by Angel Lawson

When the invitation to the Princes’ masked ball arrived, I dismissed it as an improbable error or perhaps a jest. Why would East End Royalty extend an invitation to someone from the West End? The prospect of becoming their Princess seemed like an inconceivable fantasy.

Raised with aspirations to be the Dukes’ Duchess, my dreams were shattered when they chose another woman. Despite possessing all the qualities to be a house girl, including my innocence—an attribute the Princes highly value and explicitly demand—it’s not the royal title that intimidates me.

It’s the King’s adoptive sons, specifically Whitaker, the seemingly perfect Prince Charming masking haunting secrets beneath his charm. Pace, nursing a grudge and a determination to scrutinize my every move, believes I’m responsible for his prison stint. Meanwhile, Lex, a brooding student with ambitions in surgery, treats me like a subject of experimentation rather than a potential lover.

Trained to excel in various arenas, these Princes have one duty above all—to produce the next heir, weaving a tale that finds its place among the best erotic romance books.

There you have it, our 20 Steamiest Erotic Romance Books to add to your reading list this 2023. Looking for more book recommendations?

Explore the must-read self-help books this year! Here is the list of  our TOP 17 Must-Read Self-help Books that will transform Your Life and our list of Best Dark Academia Books to Read this 2023.

Fantasy lover? Here are our 15 Best Fantasy Books in 2023.

Don’t forget to check out the latest free ebooks and best ebook deals today! Sign up for our free newsletter to get fresh ebook deals straight to your inbox.