Dark romance is a subgenre of romance fiction that explores the "shadowy" side of love. Unlike traditional romance, which prioritizes safety, emotional security, and lighthearted "happily ever afters," dark romance centers on relationships characterized by , power imbalances , and transgressive themes .

What distinguishes dark romance from other subgenres is how these "dark" elements are integrated directly into the romantic connection itself, rather than serving as external plot obstacles.

The genre often forces readers to question the boundaries of desire and morality, placing "doomed lovers" in high-stakes, perilous, or even illegal circumstances. Core Characteristics of Dark Romance