You asked, I answered: Awesome, kinda dark romantic suspense recommendations

Last week, a group of readers on the Romance Rehab Facebook page asked for some high-stakes, darker romantic suspense recommendations. (Note: I say "darker" because I don't do SUPER dark. Let's just say these are dark for me, meaning that they aren't light and fluffy, but they also don't feature heroines being abused in any way by their heroes. I don't read the truly dark stuff. #SorryNotSorry) Well, I'm a giver, so I have a few. Consider THESE awesome romantic suspense reads for your #FridayReads and #WeekendReads pleasure:  

Why you should read this one: If you like your heroes a little dark, kinda grumpy, and SUPER protective, then Conn is your man (though, I saw him first, so he's technically MY man, but I'm willing to let you borrow him for the weekend. You're welcome).  

Why you should read it: This series is a GIFT from the romantic suspense gods (and, you know, Laura Griffin, of course).  Every book is great, and they can be read as standalones if you want. Untraceable is book 1 in the Tracers series, but this woman doesn't know how to write a bad book, so feel free to go to her Amazon page and pick anything. You'll love it. The heroines are strong, smart, and capable, and the heroes are gruff, protective, but never alphaholes. And the villains are SUPER creepy. In other words, why are you still reading this post? Go download some Laura Griffin reads!

Why you should read it: Sexy, grumpy, reclusive hero meets smart, capable reporter heroine and they solve a creepy mystery together, using his psychic ability and her investigative skills. The whole series is phenomenally well done, and I love that this is a bit of a crossover between romantic suspense and paranormal romance. Highly recommend, AND it's in Kindle Unlimited (for now, at least).   

Why you should read it: OK, so technically, this is probably more of a psychological thriller than it is a romance. BUT, it is super suspenseful,  features one of the creepiest bad guys I've ever read about, and has a romance that is slow-building and super emotional. AND, it has an arguably happy ending. (It's not a traditional happy ending, but I truly felt that this couple was going to make it, and that's about all I really need in a HEA) Be warned, though: it's not an easy read. While the hero doesn't abuse the heroine, her ex CERTAINLY did, and there are parts of this are tough to read. But, hey, you said you wanted darker stuff, right? THIS IS THAT.    

Why you should read it: So, the romance in this one isn't what I would call "darker", but the stakes are super high, the suspense is of the edge-of-your-seat variety, and the plight of the people that Shanti, the heroine, is fighting to save is truly heartbreaking. If you're looking for a believable, sexy romance set against life-and-death scenarios that'll bring tears to your eyes, this one's for you.  

Why you should read it: Sexy, quiet Irish mobster who would kill or die to protect the heroine he's loved from afar for years? Um,  yes, please! My full review is here, but trust me when I say if you like a tortured hero who has done terrible things and won't hesitate to do them again in the name of love, then Ronan is the romantic hero you've been craving. 

Why you should read it: I don't think this book has received the attention it should have. It has a villain that will give you nightmares, a heroine who is willing to stop at nothing to save her sister, and the kind-hearted-but-troubled hero next door who steps in to help when he could've just done nothing.  I thoroughly enjoyed it. This author also writes a paranormal series that I think it pretty unique and great, too.  Fair warning, though: this one is another tough read. While the hero is a great guy, the villain is doing to pretty terrible stuff to his victims that isn't always fun to read about. There's no rape, though. 

Why you should read it: Well, if this review doesn't convince you, nothing will. Long-story-short, though, this book features the most unique hero I've ever read about, and I adored him. That is all. 

But what about you? What dark-ish romantic suspense are you enjoying these days? Feel free to drop links and titles in the comments! Let's share...

---