The dark academia aesthetic has likely caught your attention by now – think worn cardigans, piles of vintage tomes, skulls nestled beside flickering candles, all bathed in a warm, sepia-toned glow reminiscent of those nostalgic Instagram filters. This atmospheric trope draws inspiration from prestigious institutions like Oxford and Cambridge, as well as traditional boarding schools.
As Gen Z and Gen Alpha audiences become increasingly enamored with nostalgia for an era they never knew, it’s little wonder that dark academia is experiencing a resurgence – especially on platforms favored by these demographics, such as Tumblr, Instagram, and TikTok. The natural next step? A proliferation of dark academia romance novels, capitalizing on this zeitgeist-capturing phenomenon.
What is dark academia romance?
What sets dark academia apart from other book settings? Beyond the pursuit of knowledge and learning lies a darker undercurrent. A fascination with death often drives the plot, whether it’s the characters’ intentions or a mysterious force at play. This sub-genre’s unique blend of genres is another key aspect – think romance, horror, literary fiction, thrillers, and fantasy, catering to a wide range of tastes.
One significant issue dark academia has faced is a lack of diversity.
Historically, the genre has been dominated by white authors and characters, drawing criticism for its Eurocentric roots in classical literature. I hope this list marks a step towards greater inclusivity. If there are other titles that should be included, I’m eager to hear about them – let’s work together to make the genre more representative.
Young Adult Dark Academia Romance Books
The Devil Makes Three by Tori Bovalino
In the quiet confines of their boarding school library, Tess and Eliot’s paths collided in a chance encounter that would alter the course of their summer. Tess, a diligent employee, was tasked with maintaining the library’s integrity, while Eliot’s frequent visits had earned him a reputation as a curious and persistent patron.
As Tess grew increasingly exasperated by his constant presence, she proposed a wager to Eliot, one that would lead them down a treacherous path and uncover a mysterious tome hidden within the school’s ancient grimoire collection. Unbeknownst to them, this fateful discovery would unleash a malevolent force, plunging their world into chaos.
With the demon’s malevolent presence now a reality, Tess was left with little choice but to form an uneasy alliance with Eliot, one that would require her to confront her growing animosity towards him and work together to contain the unholy entity they had unwittingly unleashed.
The Atlas Six by Olivie Blake
Every ten years, the esteemed Alexandrian Society chooses six magicians to compete for initiation into their ranks. However, only five will ultimately be deemed worthy of membership, leaving one candidate in limbo. This year’s batch of hopefuls includes Libby, Nico, Reina, Parisa, Callum, and Tristan – a motley crew that is bound to stir up some passionate conflicts.
Ace of Spades by Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé
In the midst of Niveus Academy’s seemingly ordinary walls, a whirlwind of drama is stirring. The anonymous texter known as Ace has begun to expose the deepest secrets of students Chiamaka and Devon, forcing them to join forces in an effort to uncover Ace’s true identity. At first glance, it may appear that these two individuals have nothing in common beyond their shared racial background.
However, as the truth begins to unravel, a surprising connection between Chiamaka and Devon is revealed, one that will challenge everything they thought they knew about each other and themselves.
A Lesson in Vengeance by Victoria Lee
Felicity Morrow’s return to Dalloway School after a year-long absence was marked by a mix of emotions, still reeling from the loss of her girlfriend. Prior to her departure, Felicity had explored the world of witchcraft and dark magic alongside her peers at the school. Her fascination with the enigmatic tale of the Dalloway Five – students whose untimely demise had occurred on campus – only intensified during her time away.
However, any attempt at settling back into the familiar routine was swiftly disrupted by an unexpected turn of events: a new student sought her assistance in unraveling a mystery, drawing Felicity’s attention and stirring up a whirlwind of intrigue.
Legendborn by Tracy Deonn
A Great and Terrible Beauty by Libba Bray
As Gemma navigated the unfamiliar halls of Spence, a prestigious English boarding school, the memories of her mother’s passing still lingered. The Indian streets she once called home now seemed a distant memory as she struggled to adjust to her new surroundings. Amidst the challenges, she began to experience terrifying visions that further isolated her from her peers.
But little did she know, a mysterious figure had been tracking her – a young Indian man tasked with keeping a watchful eye on her. And as their paths continued to cross, Gemma couldn’t help but wonder if his presence was connected to the whispers of magic she’d heard circulating about Spence.
The Grimrose Girls by Laura Pohl
Ariane’s untimely demise has sent shockwaves through Grimrose Academie. The police are adamant that her death was a tragic suicide, but her closest friends Ella, Yuki, and Rory refuse to accept this conclusion without a thorough investigation. When Nani, their new roommate, joins the group, they’re galvanized into action, driven by a burning desire to uncover the truth about Ariane’s final days.
As they delve deeper into the mystery, they unravel threads that lead them down a dark path, revealing a complex web of secrets and lies that threaten to destroy everything they thought they knew about their friend and their school.
The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater
The anticipation was palpable as we awaited the arrival of this beloved series. The narrative kicks off with the intriguing introduction to Blue Sargent, a protagonist hailing from a family of clairvoyants who have long possessed the gift, except for one notable exception: Blue herself. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she stumbles upon Gansey and his cohorts, Ronan, Adam, and Noah – collectively known as the Raven Boys.
As if this new development wasn’t enough, Blue is also burdened by a premonition that she will be responsible for the demise of her true love. Prior to meeting the enigmatic Gansey and the Raven Boys, this prophecy had never weighed heavily on her conscience… until now.
The Good Girls by Claire Eliza Bartlett
My Dearest Darkest by Kayla Cottingham
At Ulalume Academy, Finch has just started her journey as the newest student. However, this fresh start is shrouded in mystery. A freak accident that should have been fatal left Finch with a peculiar feeling – she’s convinced she shouldn’t be alive. The reason for her survival remains unknown to her, leaving Finch feeling uneasy and disconnected from reality. Amidst this uncertainty, Selena, another student, senses something unique about Finch, drawing her in.
Their paths converge unexpectedly when they unwittingly conjure a malevolent entity that offers to grant their most ardent desires in exchange for human flesh.
Adult Dark Academia Romance Books
Gothikana by RuNyx
Corvina’s life had been a series of unconnected events until her acceptance into the University of Verenmore, which she interpreted as a sign that her existence was about to take a meaningful turn. Little did she know, her arrival would coincide with Vad’s growing unease about the university’s dark underbelly.
As a part-time professor working on his thesis, Vad had become increasingly aware of the eerie disappearances plaguing the school, and his concerns were only exacerbated by Corvina’s curiosity about the institution’s troubled past. Her own investigation into the school’s history caught Vad’s attention, setting off a chain of events that would forever alter their lives.
Plain Bad Heroines by Emily M. Danforth
The narrative of this book is woven across two distinct eras. While it’s deeply rooted in the present day, it also delves into the past, specifically 1902. At its core lies the enigmatic Brookhants School for Girls, which was once a beacon of excellence but ultimately succumbed to a series of unexplained fatalities. The discovery of the lifeless bodies of two students fixated on writer Mary MacLane served as the catalyst for this downward spiral.
Fast-forward to over a century later, and the school’s dark history is thrust back into the spotlight following the publication of a book that spawns a film adaptation. This newfound attention attracts a talented cast, including current darling Harper and former child star Audrey, who return to the ruins to bring their story to life on the big screen.
These Violent Delights by Micah Nemerever
As Paul and Julian, two academic adversaries, initially clash, they’re unexpectedly drawn to each other. Paul’s insecurity drives his desire for intimacy, while Julian’s charming façade conceals a darker nature. As their connection deepens, Paul becomes increasingly desperate to preserve their bond, ultimately leading to a tumultuous act that not only shakes their world but also irreversibly binds them together. The question remains: is there more to their relationship than mere attraction?
Half Truths by Claire Contreras
As you prepare for a thrilling ride, Mae’s story begins with her mid-college transfer, driven by an insatiable curiosity to uncover the truth about her brother and best friend who have seemingly vanished into thin air. Her search leads her down a rabbit hole of intrigue, where she keeps running into Logan – a coincidence or fate? The stakes heighten as she stumbles upon The Eight, a shadowy organization that may hold the secrets she’s been seeking.
And at the heart of it all is the enigmatic Logan, whose true intentions remain shrouded in mystery.
Realm of Ash by Tasha Suri
While ‘Realm of Ash’ is technically the second installment in Suri’s Books of Ambha series, it can be appreciated independently. Set against a backdrop of impending war, the once-mighty Ambhan Empire teeters on the brink of collapse. Amidst this chaos, the glimmer of hope lies in the enigmatic realm of ash. With her debt to the royal family weighing heavily on her shoulders, Arwa takes it upon herself to embark on the perilous journey.
Joining her is Zahir, a prince shrouded in scandal and controversy. Together, they pour over dusty archives and research for hours on end, driven by their determination to uncover secrets that may hold the key to their success.
The Ritual by Shantel Tessier
At Barrington University, whispers circulate about The Lords, an enigmatic secret society shrouded in mystery. Blakely’s life of rigid rules and schedules is disrupted when Ryat, a member of the Lords, takes notice of her. He extends an intriguing invitation: abandon her mundane existence and indulge in the freedom that comes with membership.
Blakely seizes the opportunity, and soon finds herself entwined in a world where survival isn’t just about outsmarting rules, but also fending off the darkness that lurks within. The allure of the Lords’ world is intoxicating, yet the cost of admission may prove steeper than she ever imagined.
A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness
As Diana Bishop delves into the Bodleian Library’s archives, she stumbles upon an ancient manuscript that not only piques her curiosity but also threatens to upend her carefully constructed life. A reluctant descendant of a long line of witches, Diana has always made it a point to distance herself from the mystical world. However, the discovery of this mysterious tome sends shockwaves through her existence, prompting her to hastily conceal it within the library’s depths.
Little does she know that attempting to bury the truth only serves to conjure a maelstrom of consequences. It is at this juncture that Matthew de Clermont, a charismatic and enigmatic vampire geneticist, enters the fray, forging an illicit bond with Diana that blurs the lines between love, danger, and the unknown.
The Lessons by Naomi Alderman
Surrounded by a coterie of impressionable young minds, Mark Winters has crafted a bespoke university experience within the walls of his secluded mansion. Unfettered by practical considerations, this institution focuses on theoretical knowledge, leaving its students woefully unprepared for the harsh realities that life often presents.
The narrative centers around James, our protagonist and narrator, who masterfully weaves together the fates of the characters as they navigate the aftermath of a devastating tragedy.
A Lesson in Thorns by Sierra Simone
As Poe assumes the librarian role at Thornchapel, she is driven by two primary motivations: first, to unravel the enigmatic circumstances surrounding her mother’s disappearance; second, to steer clear of Auden, the estate’s owner. Her investigative efforts yield a wealth of secrets about the house and its inhabitants, including Auden and his adversary, St. Sebastian.
As the trio becomes increasingly entwined, an atmosphere of mystery, jealousy, and obsession begins to unfold, ultimately drawing Poe closer to the truth about her mother’s fate.
Never Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro
In a dystopian version of late ’90s England, Hailsham, a secluded and exclusive boarding school, serves as a peculiar hub where students are bound by strict rules. The air is thick with an unspoken understanding that their time at Hailsham is merely a stop on their journey, before they’re ultimately required to leave. The reason for this departure remains shrouded in mystery.