Sharp banter, slow burns, and “I hate how much I want you” energy.
Few tropes hit quite like enemies-to-lovers — especially when they get spicy.
If you love watching two characters go from eye-rolling and bickering to intense chemistry and emotional chaos, this list is for you. These spicy enemies-to-lovers books are full of simmering tension, grudges, sharp banter, and slow-burn attraction that eventually explodes.
Whether you’re into mafia drama, college romance, or dark fairy tales, these stories prove that the line between hate and love is paper-thin… and often on fire.
1. Twisted Hate by Ana Huang
They can’t stand each other, but they also can’t stay away. Full of sharp banter, steamy tension, and explosive chemistry, this is a classic enemies-to-lovers romance that brings serious spice.
2. The Hating Game by Sally Thorne
Two coworkers locked in a daily battle of sarcasm and competition. But behind the insults? Unresolved tension and slow-burn attraction that delivers. A rom-com favorite with an unforgettable payoff.
3. The Maddest Obsession by Danielle Lori
He’s cold and calculating. She’s wild and unpredictable. They hate each other. Until they don’t. A mafia romance with powerful tension, emotional complexity, and addictive spice.
4. Hooked by Emily McIntire
This dark Peter Pan retelling starts with revenge and manipulation, but turns into a twisted, passionate connection. Enemies with chemistry that smolders.
5. A Shadow in the Ember by Jennifer L. Armentrout
She was raised to betray him. He was never supposed to fall for her. This fantasy romance starts with suspicion, manipulation, and serious enemies-to-lovers tension — but when fate steps in, sparks fly. Perfect for fans of slow burn with spice.
6. Brutal Prince by Sophie Lark
They’re from rival mafia families and forced into an arranged marriage. Cue the pranks, sabotage, and chemistry that gets hotter the more they fight. Equal parts funny, wild, and steamy.
Why Readers Love Enemies-to-Lovers
- Banter > everything.
- Watching tension build until someone breaks.
- The moment when hate turns into obsession — and then love.
- The emotional payoff from a rocky start to a fiery HEA.
Want a surprise spicy romance pick with tension you’ll love?
Let us surprise you with a mystery book featuring steamy enemies-to-lovers vibes.