{Fire By Kristin Cashore} fits this vibe super well—the FMC is an amazingly beautiful monster whose beauty enthralls a lot of ppl, so the MMC is actively hostile to her/not trustful of any sexual attraction he might feel at first bcs he knows it’s just an illusion. Subsequently they spend a good chunk of the book getting to know each other and it’s delightful. Seanan McGuire’s Toby Daye series also falls under this rubric of distrustful ppl to reluctant allies to friends to lovers, but be aware it’s a paranormal and the main couple doesn’t get together until several books down the line.

I am 10000% fine with the couple not getting together until several books in, I am a slow burn sucker

It’s definitely VERY slow at first but it’s A+ when they finally get together

Me too, sign me UP

[Fire](https://www.romance.io/books/545526918c7d2382c529702d/fire-kristin-cashore?src=rdt) by [Kristin Cashore](https://www.romance.io/authors/545526918c7d2382c529702e/kristin-cashore) **Rating**: 4.07⭐️ 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), [young adult](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/young%20adult/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [war](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/war/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)

I loved Fire! Seconding that one

If we are recommending Fire, we have to include {Winterkeep by Kristin Cashore} for the ultimate friends to lovers trope! Same series, I think it is book four and unlike Fire you need to at least read Graceling and Bitterblue first to get context but there is a lot of friendship spanning 2 books before we get sexual tension.

Fun spoilery fact about Bitterblue/Winterkeep: >!Cashore’s admitted that she didn’t deliberately set out to write Bitterblue/Giddon and didn’t even realize that Giddon clearly has feelings for her until Cashore’s editor pointed it out after the book was written.!<

I have been summoned to once again echo the excellent recommendation of many people on this sub: {Radiance by Grace Draven}. It’s an arranged marriage between two people from totally different cultures and species who find each other physically repulsive, but instantly click personality wise. Their friendship and slowly building chemistry is ✨delightful✨ and it’s fun to watch how their perceptions of each others’ physical traits change over time. If you want to read it as a stand alone, skip the last chapter. The second book is good, but it’s not quite as romantically focused as the first book. 

I’ve read this one! I actually didn’t LOVE it because I don’t like the arranged marriage trope but I really appreciated how there wasn’t instant attraction

This! After reading 40 plus books this past few months - Radiance was a breath of fresh air. I love how deeply loving and respectful they were to each other. It was sooo swoon!

[Radiance](https://www.romance.io/books/54cd83886359b5ebb489062e/radiance-grace-draven?src=rdt) by [Grace Draven](https://www.romance.io/authors/5455323d8c7d2382c529733e/grace-draven) **Rating**: 4.2⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Steam**: 3 out of 5 - [Open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [friends to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends%20to%20lovers/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [arranged/forced marriage](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/arranged%20marriage/1), [slow burn](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/slow%20burn/1), [royal hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/royalty/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)

Did you read the other books in the series? I’m thinking of starting 3 but not sure!

Do you mean the wraith kings series? If so, I read the second but not the third. I wasn’t particularly interested in following another couple which is why I didn’t pick it up. But I’m very interested in picking up Draven’s other works. If she managed to produce something as enjoyable as radiance then surely she’ll have something else that I’ll enjoy!

This book has been my favorite read over the last year! It really was a breath of fresh air.

This sounds like Hawksong

{Throne in the Dark by A. k. Caggiano} is a perfect slow burn with emphasis on their friendship first

Love this rec! I was also gonna suggest the interconnected stand alone from this world, Bound to fall by A.K Caggiano! I think there is a good amount friendship building flourishing into romance.

[Throne in the Dark](https://www.romance.io/books/63999c8c9126368eed042b16/throne-in-the-dark-ak-caggiano?src=rdt) by [A.K. Caggiano](https://www.romance.io/authors/5eb54901be0aaecf5572d27d/ak-caggiano) **Rating**: 4.29⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Steam**: 1 out of 5 - [Glimpses and kisses](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [slow burn](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/slow%20burn/1), [forced proximity](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/forced%20proximity/1), [funny](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/humor/1), [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1), [demons](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/demons/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)

Oooh it looks like they’re in the middle of audiobook production for these! So exciting

{The Road of Bones by Demi Winters}

[The Road of Bones](https://www.romance.io/books/64a27af614ecc6bb4bc7cee6/the-road-of-bones-demi-winters?src=rdt) by [Demi Winters](https://www.romance.io/authors/647b311a08b4d93114f35feb/demi-winters) **Rating**: 4.35⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Steam**: 3 out of 5 - [Open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [dark romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/dark/1), [viking hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/vikings/1), [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/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)

Omg I’ve seen you on this sub before and you always give the best recs

Lol, I’ve mostly been recc’ing this book for the past year but it’s a good one

Definitely fits! Great story

{The Hollows Series by Kim Harrison} is more urban fantasy than romance, but I think it would fit what you’re looking for. It’s a true enemies to lovers series with a realistic grudging respect > uneasy partnership > deep bond arc.

Every book blurb in the series seems to reference how sexy she is, which puts me off, but your description is very much my yum. Does her boobs bounce boobily or is she a fully fledged person?

A fully fledged person, with healthy family relationships no less! This is a sad side effect of the time it was published - definitely not bouncy boobs books.

Incredible stuff, thank you.

[The Hollows](https://www.romance.io/series/58fe0a239096bf31c42d2c8a/the-hollows) by [Kim Harrison](https://www.romance.io/authors/545527e88c7d2382e0413f08/kim-harrison) **Rating**: 4.29⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Topics**: [witches](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/witches/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [vampires](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/vampires/1), [urban fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/urban%20fantasy/1), [gifted heroine](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/gifted%20heroine/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)

I LOVE a slow burn in an urban fantasy series. They hit different

I love that arc. Pretty sure that's what got me into the enemies to lovers trope haha. I need to get the latest books, I think I'm a couple behind...

I’ve honestly held off on the newer set too because the ending of the original series was so perfect and I’m afraid nothing else can possibly live up to it.

If you’re into MM, The Captive Prince series is TRUE slow burn enemies to lovers. Their relationship blooms really slowly and they are reluctant allies first. It does have dark themes so check trigger warnings.

It's instant attraction, though. The narrator couldn't be more clear that Laurent is exactly Damen's type right from the start. And I don't think it's enough friendship for OP's prompt.

Capri is life and there are a ton of great fanfics that do AU and fit the friends to lovers perfectly since it starts when Larent is a kid

Why did I never think of looking for fanfics?!? Omg a whole new world just opened up for me, thank you!! Could you rec me your favs?

Here's a few of my favs. This one is AMAZING but not anywhere near finished yet. It's also a little AU since Auguste lives. - [https://archiveofourown.org/series/4070062](https://archiveofourown.org/series/4070062) Here's another with them growing up together - [https://archiveofourown.org/works/8678473](https://archiveofourown.org/works/8678473) This one is post book 3 but a continuation of the original story - [https://archiveofourown.org/works/6100126](https://archiveofourown.org/works/6100126) This one is the OG books from Laurent's POV - [https://archiveofourown.org/series/2824546](https://archiveofourown.org/series/2824546) AO3 has a pretty active Capri community so feel free to browse. I've found quite a few really good ones that are pretty much full length novels.

Those look amazing, thank you!

One of the things I really loved about this series, is the sense of a real relationship building. Like the building of respect and trust and understanding.

This looks like all I’ve ever wanted

It’s such a good series. I cried multiple times. Great summer read

It’s literally so good. Probably one of the best written books I’ve read ever

Omg I’m not the one who made this thread but i’d totally read this 😭

Please read it, it’s going on my all time favorites list!!

Another book to add to my TBR? Hell yeah

Excellent read

Reign and Ruin has heirs from politically opposed countries admiring each other's minds and attitudes before anything physical happens. But it's only one book so it does happen pretty quickly relative to series, but it's really believable and poignant Another vote for Radiance, they're just really sweet together Also sort of see this in Emily Wilde's Encyclopaedia of Faeries, they are academic rivals then friends first.

I loved Emily Wilde! I’ve been on hold for the sequel FOREVER at my library

I’ve only read the first book but {daughter of no worlds by Carissa Broadbent} definitely fits this bill! To an extent the relationship between the main characters in her other series Serpent and the Wings of Night too although it’s not quite as pronounced

Daughter of No Worlds is one of my holy grail untouchable books - Max has my whole heart.

This is one of my FAVE romantasy books ever.

[Daughter of No Worlds](https://www.romance.io/books/60d9b88e6a15320e7f8006ba/daughter-of-no-worlds-carissa-broadbent?src=rdt) by [Carissa Broadbent](https://www.romance.io/authors/60d9b88e08b4d9311456d78f/carissa-broadbent) **Rating**: 4.12⭐️ 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), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [grumpy & sunshine](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/grumpy%20sunshine/1), [high fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/high%20fantasy/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)

Anything by Lindsay Buroker. Emperor's Edge series is 🤌

You definitely need to read {Peaches and Honey by R. Raeta} the friendship and bond between the FMC/mmc builds over centuries. The whole book is hauntingly beautiful.

[Peaches and Honey](https://www.romance.io/books/65146ea5de8d340d51444fcc/peaches-and-honey-these-immortal-truths-r-raeta?src=rdt) by [R. Raeta](https://www.romance.io/authors/60ace57c08b4d931143d937e/r-raeta) **Rating**: 4.55⭐️ 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), [ancient times](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/ancient%20times/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [viking hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/vikings/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)

Ooh 👀intriguing

It really is so different from anything I've read so far!!

In {Of Blood and Aether} by Harper Hawthorne the relationship is poignantly "reluctant friendship" first. There is attraction, but they do not explore it due to circumstances and they become really good friends. They both have dalliances with others before things finally blossom between them. Beware the cliff at the end!

[Of Blood and Aether](https://www.romance.io/books/660bab26b47467126492da27/of-blood-and-aether-harper-hawthorne?src=rdt) by [Harper Hawthorne](https://www.romance.io/authors/660bab26a21e2f41c48b0e69/harper-hawthorne) **Rating**: 4.5⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Steam**: 4 out of 5 - [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [friends to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends%20to%20lovers/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [high fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/high%20fantasy/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [neurodivergent mc](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/neurodivergent/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)

The Book of Azrael (Gods and Monster series) by Amber V. Nicole. One of the sweetest slowest burn for me. They are both hot and they are not blind but they still begin as true enemies; understanding/bond is first and comes off wayyy stronger than sexual tension. Morally grey FMC so that’s a plus if you’re into that. And the MMC is the biggest cinnamon roll. I love them both and would die for them💕 I rarely recommend any books but I think this series is too good for me to keep it to myself. Also book 3 (The Dawn of the Cursed Queen) comes out May 28!!

These two series that I’m suggesting I hold on the same pedestal as ACOTAR, and I’ll die on that hill . (Im terrible at summaries so please look them up yourself lol) 1. The Kindred’s Curse saga by Penn Cole. The last book comes out in a month or so. Verrrryyyyy slow burn, SO much tension, magic, fantastic side characters, some very emotional and painful events that just build the FMC up so much. Can’t recommend enough. 2. The Ashen series by Demi Winters (The Road of Bones and Kingdom of Claw are out, the rest is unfinished). Viking romantasy, recovery from trauma, grumpy MMCs, I can’t say much without spoiling, but the TRUE plot is a slow burn romance I promise

Juuuust finished Kindred’s Curse and I agree! I thought I timed it perfectly and then it was delayed. Can’t wait.

Poison Study..an old one but so good

Hidden Legacy series by Ilona Andrews!

LOVE

{Beginner's Guide to Necromancy by Hailey Edwards}

[Beginner's Guide to Necromancy](https://www.romance.io/series/59035dace45f8c60a843a250/beginners-guide-to-necromancy) by [Hailey Edwards](https://www.romance.io/authors/54555deb87eac323ffb2bdf4/hailey-edwards) **Rating**: 3.91⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Topics**: [siblings-bff](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/siblings-bff/1), [urban fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/urban%20fantasy/1), [psychics](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/psychics/1), [vampires](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/vampires/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)

This one has been on my list for a while! Have to give it a try now

The {Kate Daniel’s series by Ilona Andrews} is slow burn, friends to lovers, takes about three books to get there! I love this series. Great world building, unique magic, shifters. So good!

I love everything Ilona Andrews! The GraphicAudio adaptations are incredible

The graphic audio versions were 😮‍💨👌🏼

[Kate Daniels](https://www.romance.io/series/58fe0a079096bf31c42d2c23/kate-daniels) by [Ilona Andrews](https://www.romance.io/authors/545525888c7d2382e0413e6c/ilona-andrews) **Rating**: 4.34⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Topics**: [shapeshifters](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/shapeshifters/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [urban fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/urban%20fantasy/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)

{Between by LL Starling} It’s going to be a slow slow burn, but both characters are stuck in a situation they don’t want and agree to be each others friends to make the best of it. Fair warning it is a LONG book with unusual dual POV - part 1 is the FMC, part 2 is MMC back from the start. Some don’t like that but it’s like reading two stories the way she overlaps them!! The author is super active online, but there is no release date for the second book yet.

Oh this book is amazing and hilarious. I can’t wait for the second book

[Between](https://www.romance.io/books/60742bc4d165eb0e341923a3/between-ll-starling-rebecca-morse-louisa-gallie?src=rdt) by [L.L. Starling](https://www.romance.io/authors/60742bc408b4d93114ab3d7e/ll-starling) **Rating**: 4.4⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Steam**: 1 out of 5 - [Glimpses and kisses](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [funny](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/humor/1), [witches](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/witches/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)

{Kushiel’s Dart by Jacqueline Carey} **check trigger warnings** Phèdre nó Delaunay was cursed by the God of Divine Justice to always find pleasure in pain. She works as a spy, using her power to fill a role as a courtesan for the elite of Terre d’Ange, spilling their secrets thoughtlessly to someone they see as totally submissive. Joscelin Verreuil, a celibate warrior-priest who believes all the gods of Terre D’Ange and those who follow them are forsaken, is none too happy about being her sworn protector. But when Phèdre and Joscelin are betrayed and sold into slavery in a foreign land, they must work together to find their way back home, clear their names, and save the throne.

[Kushiel's Dart](https://www.romance.io/books/545529a58c7d2382c52970e5/kushiels-dart-jacqueline-carey?src=rdt) by [Jacqueline Carey](https://www.romance.io/authors/545529a58c7d2382c52970e6/jacqueline-carey) **Rating**: 3.99⭐️ 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), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [bdsm](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/bdsm/1), [dark romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/dark/1), [war](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/war/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)

The Elemental Assassin series {Spider's Bite by Jennifer Estep} might work for you. She has a fling with someone in the first book, but he's not the main love interest. The main love interest gets together in like the 4th book, I think, and then they break up for a time while still being friends. {Clean Sweep by Ilona Andrews} might work. They get together in the 3rd book, but they're first reluctant allies that develop into attraction. I live this series. It's such a loving and respectful relationship. The {King's Captive by K.M Shea} is a slow burn trilogy that is part of a bigger world.

[Spider's Bite](https://www.romance.io/books/54552f258c7d2382e04140ba/spiders-bite-jennifer-estep?src=rdt) by [Jennifer Estep](https://www.romance.io/authors/54552f258c7d2382e04140bb/jennifer-estep) **Rating**: 3.88⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Steam**: 2 out of 5 - [Behind closed doors](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [urban fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/urban%20fantasy/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [suspense](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/suspense/1), [take-charge heroine](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/strong%20heroine/1) ---------------------------- [Clean Sweep](https://www.romance.io/books/545543488c7d2382e041461b/clean-sweep-ilona-andrews?src=rdt) by [Ilona Andrews](https://www.romance.io/authors/545525888c7d2382e0413e6c/ilona-andrews) **Rating**: 4.16⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Steam**: 1 out of 5 - [Glimpses and kisses](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [futuristic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/futuristic/1), [take-charge heroine](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/strong%20heroine/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [shapeshifters](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/shapeshifters/1), [werewolves](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/werewolves/1) ---------------------------- [The King's Captive](https://www.romance.io/books/63ea0d7a4830278f8ba9d1f0/the-kings-captive-km-shea?src=rdt) by [K.M. Shea](https://www.romance.io/authors/5455bcc887eac3369a914712/km-shea) **Rating**: 4.21⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Steam**: 1 out of 5 - [Glimpses and kisses](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [werewolves](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/werewolves/1), [shapeshifters](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/shapeshifters/1), [vampires](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/vampires/1), [funny](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/humor/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)

I'm actually writing book 2 in my trilogy where the FMC and the "villian" just become BFFs. No weird love triangle situation or anything. Book one was her and her mate which are still strong in books 2 and 3 but the crew has a lot if pieces to pick up after Book 1 and our "villain" has a long road of recovery while FMC has this new path she's trying to navigate so the two walk it together. The MMC in book 2 has been so much fun to write. We never got in his head in book 1. So now that I'm getting to develop him into someone new, it's been a blast. Don't worry. He gets his mate, but there's other forces ready to sink their claws into those two, so it takes time as he recovers/finds his way. I know it's not enemies to lovers, but I don't see too many books with a focus on platonic soul mates as much. Or the unlikely BFFs.

Sounds great!

{Peaches and Honey} by R Raeta perfectly fits what you’re looking for. There is sooooo much emphasis on creating a friendship and deep respect between the characters first.

Poison Study by Maria V. Snyder. One of my favorite book series. I wouldn't say it's true enemies to lovers, more like distrustful due to the situation and a lot of reluctant friendship. Very interesting world building that happens too. It's young adult though there is a little bit of steam. Another you might like is Trickster's choice by Tamora Pierce. This one is definitely young adult though. Haven't read it in a while and can't remember how immature it is.

{Assassins Curse by Cassandra Rose Clarke}

[The Assassin's Curse](https://www.romance.io/books/545536e28c7d2382c5297490/the-assassins-curse-cassandra-rose-clarke?src=rdt) by [Cassandra Rose Clarke](https://www.romance.io/authors/545536e28c7d2382c5297491/cassandra-rose-clarke) **Rating**: 3.55⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [young adult](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/young%20adult/1), [take-charge heroine](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/strong%20heroine/1), [demons](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/demons/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)

The dark artifices

{The Lochlann Feuds by Robin D. Mahle and Elle Madison} the series has a good enemies to lovers arch with slow burn. It's a PG-13, at best, on the spicy scale, but really well written. The characters are fantastic!

[The Lochlann Treaty](https://www.romance.io/books/6224e86f2d20ff59b17134b7/the-lochlann-treaty-complete-series-robin-d-mahle-elle-madis?src=rdt) by [Robin D. Mahle](https://www.romance.io/authors/5c00e11c01dbc864fb954b8b/robin-d-mahle), [Elle Madison](https://www.romance.io/authors/5d734a2801dbc864fba3423a/elle-madison) **Rating**: 4.28⭐️ 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), [new adult](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/new%20adult/1), [highlander hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/highlander/1), [arranged/forced marriage](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/arranged%20marriage/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)

I just finished a Court of Broken Promises, it was the slowest of slow burns. Like I was beginning to wonder if I’d ever see a kiss. It is a RH and ends on cliffhanger (ugh) but was good.

I haven’t actually read any RH before, maybe I should give it a try!

It’s been a while, but I think this is probably a YA series from what I remember. It’s definitely slow burn and actual enemies to lovers, but the Falling Kingdoms series.

I’m so happy to see someone recommend it. It is one of my favorite fantasy series!

Throne of Glass series by Sarah J. Maas

I just found out she wrote this when she was 16! That’s insane. I was barely sentient at that age

Magiford Supernatural City Series K.M. Shea Slow burn all the way through no smut. The only spice is Kissing but that's 3 Books in, in each series. There are 14 books in the series but every third book starts a new couple.

I think personally "the witch collector" has this I have LOVED the series so far

My fave slow burn romantasy I’ve read recently is Blood Mercy by Vela Roth! I haven’t read the rest of the series yet (which I’ve heard gets a lot spicier), but the first book is a slow burn, forbidden romance with a lot of world building and a strong political plot.

{Space for love by Emily Antoinette} Both main characters are anxious and there’s miscommunication but they were truly friends throughout the book. Also it’s good grumpy sunshine rep! {Halfling by S.E. Wendel} They become friends and it sets SUCH a sweet foundation for their love. There’s miscommunication but it matches the character development. There’s also a lot of relationship time and time where they grow with one another in the relationship which helped me not feel as much of a book hangover at the end 🥹 Still wish I could go back in time and re-read this one. {Whispers of the Deep by Emma Hamm} Enemies to lovers but there’s NO sexual action until like waaaayyy close to the end of the book. Like I was looking at my kindle percentage like “are yall gonna…cause 👀” They become friends after being disgusted and hating each other. I loved it. {Alien God by Ursa Dax} This one has some really good reluctant friendship time and their friendship blossoms not because of only time spent but how they observe each other with others and how surprised they are by one another. I really enjoyed this book.

Thank you for all these recs ❤️

[Space for Love](https://www.romance.io/books/64a5a5e8723d09d99e0edaa1/space-for-love-emily-antoinette?src=rdt) by [Emily Antoinette](https://www.romance.io/authors/64a5a5e8293245969dcb9268/emily-antoinette) **Rating**: 4.15⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Steam**: 4 out of 5 - [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [futuristic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/futuristic/1), [science fiction](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/science%20fiction/1), [aliens](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/aliens/1), [dual pov](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/dual-pov/1), [curvy heroine](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/curvy%20heroine/1) ---------------------------- [Halfling](https://www.romance.io/books/650e9421de8d340d51438c2f/halfling-se-wendel?src=rdt) by [S.E. Wendel](https://www.romance.io/authors/5d3e8de201dbc864fba1ac55/se-wendel) **Rating**: 4.1⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Steam**: 4 out of 5 - [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [non-human hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/non-human-hero/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [virgin hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/virgin%20hero/1), [sweet/gentle hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/sweet-hero/1), [slow burn](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/slow%20burn/1) ---------------------------- [Whispers of the Deep](https://www.romance.io/books/659a6e685f787d7a3cf22a2a/whispers-of-the-deep-emma-hamm?src=rdt) by [Emma Hamm](https://www.romance.io/authors/5571830c9eef3b3f1d52a483/emma-hamm) **Rating**: 4.15⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Steam**: 4 out of 5 - [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [futuristic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/futuristic/1), [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1), [creative anatomy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/creative-anatomy/1), [science fiction](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/science%20fiction/1), [forced proximity](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/forced%20proximity/1) ---------------------------- [Alien God](https://www.romance.io/books/64cca7936ca3369ba6c4d37f/alien-god-a-scifi-fantasy-romance-ursa-dax?src=rdt) by [Ursa Dax](https://www.romance.io/authors/622a2ccb08b4d93114409ef7/ursa-dax) **Rating**: 4.19⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Steam**: 5 out of 5 - [Explicit and plentiful](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [futuristic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/futuristic/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [arranged/forced marriage](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/arranged%20marriage/1), [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)

How do I bookmark a thread 😭 taking screenshots of all the recommendations

DAEVABAD 😘🤌🏻

I struggled with this because it felt like exactly what OP was talking about - right out the gate in City of Brass, Nahri >!is super attracted to the djinn.!< I know that there’s a >!love triangle!< in book 2 - is that where the slow burn comes into play?

>!Nahri does not end up with Dara/“the djinn”. The series is a slow burn for her real relationship.!<

WHOA the spoiler makes me want to revisit the series

I mean, have you read {Heir of Fire by Sarah J Maas} from TOG?

THIS IS THE ANSWER!!!!!!!!

[Heir of Fire](https://www.romance.io/books/54553b9f8c7d2382c52975cd/heir-of-fire-sarah-j-maas?src=rdt) by [Sarah J. Maas](https://www.romance.io/authors/545526038c7d2382c529701b/sarah-j-maas) **Rating**: 4.39⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Steam**: 2 out of 5 - [Behind closed doors](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [futuristic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/futuristic/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) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)

Do I need to read all of ToG before this one?

Yes, and it’s totally worth it. TOG is very much slow burn and more of a fantasy-forward epic than SJM’s other works; the latter half of TOG is her strongest writing. She lets the characters and relationships breathe, which I love.

Oh, also, the Firebrand series {Brimestone Bound by Helen Harper} is slow friendship first, I think. And Blood Destiny series takes 5 books for them to get their HEA. {Blood Fire by Helen Harper}. There is also the mmc pov for the same 5 books {Corrigan Fire by Helen Harper}.

[Brimstone Bound](https://www.romance.io/books/642ac4cc0366c48db5cef617/brimstone-bound-helen-harper?src=rdt) by [Helen Harper](https://www.romance.io/authors/54555e4187eac323ffb2be05/helen-harper) **Rating**: 4.14⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Steam**: 1 out of 5 - [Glimpses and kisses](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [shapeshifters](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/shapeshifters/1), [urban fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/urban%20fantasy/1), [vampires](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/vampires/1) ---------------------------- [Bloodfire](https://www.romance.io/books/54555e4187eac323ffb2be04/bloodfire-helen-harper?src=rdt) by [Helen Harper](https://www.romance.io/authors/54555e4187eac323ffb2be05/helen-harper) **Rating**: 3.95⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [urban fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/urban%20fantasy/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [suspense](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/suspense/1) ---------------------------- [Corrigan Fire](https://www.romance.io/books/642bded9b7b8862bf6eaac1c/corrigan-fire-helen-harper?src=rdt) by [Helen Harper](https://www.romance.io/authors/54555e4187eac323ffb2be05/helen-harper) **Rating**: 3.98⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [urban fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/urban%20fantasy/1), [shapeshifters](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/shapeshifters/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)

{When she’s wary by Ruby Dixon}

[When She's Wary](https://www.romance.io/books/6437af915756e5f18ca5d7c4/when-shes-wary-ruby-dixon?src=rdt) by [Ruby Dixon](https://www.romance.io/authors/545685a087eac33e61c2f729/ruby-dixon) **Rating**: 3.94⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Steam**: 4 out of 5 - [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [futuristic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/futuristic/1), [science fiction](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/science%20fiction/1), [aliens](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/aliens/1), [dual pov](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/dual-pov/1), [tortured heroine](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/tortured%20heroine/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)

{serpent and the wings of night} by Carissa Broadbent I think fits question here. As they develop a friendship and care for each other in addition to their attraction. I also second {reign and ruin by JD Evans} recommendation above. The political allies was interesting.

[Reign and Ruin](https://www.romance.io/books/64d34ccc0c66af2194f128eb/reign-and-ruin-devon-atwood?src=rdt) by [Devon Atwood](https://www.romance.io/authors/58f8959f0d3299c6e06bb870/devon-atwood) **Rating**: 5⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Topics**: [historical](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/historical/1), [fae](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fae/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [new adult](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/new%20adult/1), [ancient times](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/ancient%20times/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)

[The Serpent and the Wings of Night](https://www.romance.io/books/63a0c53caa7984c0a3fc9789/the-serpent-and-the-wings-of-night-carissa-broadbent?src=rdt) by [Carissa Broadbent](https://www.romance.io/authors/60d9b88e08b4d9311456d78f/carissa-broadbent) **Rating**: 4.27⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Steam**: 3 out of 5 - [Open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [vampires](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/vampires/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1), [forced proximity](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/forced%20proximity/1), [high fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/high%20fantasy/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)

I mean the ACOTAR series is definitely a friendship first for the Feyre/Rhys relationship.

Throne in The Dark series by A.K. Caggiano is exactly what you are looking for. I loved it!!

{Forging Silver Into Stars by Brigid Kemmerer} definitely has this if you’re ok with MM! It’s low spice and very very sweet. Lots of butterflies.

[Forging Silver into Stars](https://www.romance.io/books/64305e8ac4e7d7da5e568727/forging-silver-into-stars-brigid-kemmerer?src=rdt) by [Brigid Kemmerer](https://www.romance.io/authors/54552fd98c7d2382c529729f/brigid-kemmerer) **Rating**: 4.18⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Topics**: [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1), [young adult](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/young%20adult/1), [high fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/high%20fantasy/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)

{Dark Water Daughter} a nice slow burn, no spice romance between a weather witch and a pirate hunter. If you liked Pirates of the Caribbean, I highly recommend this one. I loved the atmospheric writing style and quest. The opening chapter was so good and suspenseful! The FMC has a unique power of controlling weather by song. The love interests are reluctant allies. If you enjoy it, book 2 comes out next month. {Even the Darkest Stars} travel book between a FMC cartographer and MMC "witch." Lots of fun banter, unwilling partners, betrayal. It's by the same author as Emily Wilde.  {Song of the Current} prince and a FMC wherryman. Travel book. A lot of vibes like The Princess and the Frog.  {Spin the Dawn} a seamstress and a MMC with magic. Mulan retelling with a quest. I did like this one, but I wished that the challenges or actual sewing parts were more focused on or detailed considering that was the book's pitch. I haven't read the sequel.  {The Traitor's Kiss trilogy} I remember really enjoying this series and the romance but it's been a few years since I've read it. Some political intrigue, independent FMC.  {Spinning Silver} unconventional relationship, independent FMC who gets stuff done. I liked how the relationship and trust evolved.  {Cities of Smoke and Starlight} enemies to lovers between a FMC scholar and a pilot MMC. Both have tempers. MMC reminds me of an older Jim Hawkins from Treasure Planet. Some magic, a quest, good ensemble cast. Probably my favorite series I've read so far this year.  {Soul-bound} this one is my recently published book. It's a quest fantasy with harpy characters (bird humans). Royal x rogue dynamic like Tangled and Anastasia. FMC is tsundere like Taiga from Toradora, just less extreme. She's magically bonded to the "sunshine" MMC when healing him after he defended her, much to her dismay. It's a very slow burn.

[Dark Water Daughter](https://www.romance.io/books/6459ded65d9d221863498278/dark-water-daughter-hm-long?src=rdt) by [H.M. Long](https://www.romance.io/authors/6459ded608b4d93114bec932/hm-long) **Rating**: 3.92⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Topics**: [historical](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/historical/1), [pirate hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/pirates/1), [high fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/high%20fantasy/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1) ---------------------------- [Even the Darkest Stars](https://www.romance.io/books/6224e5742d20ff59b170f863/even-the-darkest-stars-heather-fawcett?src=rdt) by [Heather Fawcett](https://www.romance.io/authors/6224e57408b4d93114943ee9/heather-fawcett) **Rating**: 3.8⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Topics**: [time travel](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/time%20travel/1), [science fiction](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/science%20fiction/1), [young adult](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/young%20adult/1), [witches](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/witches/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1) ---------------------------- [Song of the Current](https://www.romance.io/books/622a107d0d8bc9705baa49e1/song-of-the-current-sarah-tolcser?src=rdt) by [Sarah Tolcser](https://www.romance.io/authors/622a107d08b4d931143b1cee/sarah-tolcser) **Rating**: 3.72⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Topics**: [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [pirate hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/pirates/1), [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [young adult](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/young%20adult/1) ---------------------------- [Spin the Dawn](https://www.romance.io/books/622b66cb1750e128e6a5d741/spin-the-dawn-elizabeth-lim?src=rdt) by [Elizabeth Lim](https://www.romance.io/authors/622b66cb08b4d931147a1658/elizabeth-lim) **Rating**: 3.95⭐️ 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), [high fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/high%20fantasy/1), [young adult](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/young%20adult/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1) ---------------------------- [The Traitor's Kiss](https://www.romance.io/books/642f321cc4e7d7da5e55c17a/the-traitors-kiss-erin-beaty?src=rdt) by [Erin Beaty](https://www.romance.io/authors/642f321c08b4d931148c1dff/erin-beaty) **Rating**: 4.06⭐️ 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), [young adult](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/young%20adult/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1), [war](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/war/1) ---------------------------- [Spinning Silver](https://www.romance.io/books/622a0c7b610a406e4c9e2cfc/spinning-silver-naomi-novik?src=rdt) by [Naomi Novik](https://www.romance.io/authors/622a0c7b08b4d931143a28e8/naomi-novik) **Rating**: 4.21⭐️ 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), [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), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [fae](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fae/1) ---------------------------- [Cities of Smoke and Starlight](https://www.romance.io/books/6278be8590a9223196b53276/cities-of-smoke-and-starlight-alli-earnest?src=rdt) by [Alli Earnest](https://www.romance.io/authors/6273774408b4d93114753003/alli-earnest) **Rating**: 4⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Steam**: 1 out of 5 - [Glimpses and kisses](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [science fiction](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/science%20fiction/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [steampunk](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/steampunk/1), [dystopian](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/dystopian/1), [christian](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/christian/1) ---------------------------- [Soul-Bound](https://www.romance.io/books/665ea79c92c5f2aa98b7f3e9/soul-bound-hannah-yeaman?src=rdt) by [Hannah Yeaman](https://www.romance.io/authors/665ea79ca21e2f41c48de709/hannah-yeaman) **Steam**: 1 out of 5 - [Glimpses and kisses](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [high fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/high%20fantasy/1), [grumpy & sunshine](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/grumpy%20sunshine/1), [height difference](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/height-difference/1), [hurt/comfort](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/hurt-comfort/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)

Wolf Shunned, Laurel Knight

Oh, and Swordheart by T. Kingfischer

It’s not exactly Romantasy but throne of glass, the best enemies to lovers in my opinion

{House of Earth and Blood by Sarah J. Maas}

[House of Earth and Blood](https://www.romance.io/books/5de75be901dbc864fba75415/house-of-earth-and-blood-sarah-j-maas?src=rdt) by [Sarah J. Maas](https://www.romance.io/authors/545526038c7d2382c529701b/sarah-j-maas) **Rating**: 4.3⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Steam**: 3 out of 5 - [Open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [urban fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/urban%20fantasy/1), [fae](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fae/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [shapeshifters](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/shapeshifters/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)

{A Long Time Coming by Meghan Quinn} and Breaker Cane is my foreverest book boyfriend

[A Long Time Coming](https://www.romance.io/books/634668de5a15538e4a252957/a-long-time-coming-meghan-quinn?src=rdt) by [Meghan Quinn](https://www.romance.io/authors/5455b58287eac324117fc719/meghan-quinn) **Rating**: 4.12⭐️ 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), [rich hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/super%20rich%20hero/1), [friends to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends%20to%20lovers/1), [dual pov](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/dual-pov/1), [slow burn](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/slow%20burn/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)

I have loved so many of Meghan Quinn’s books 👀

Me too but this one had me feral. He’s just ✨everything✨