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How Dark Romance is Therapy
195 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 15, 2026
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August 20, 2026
I had the privilege of signing up to be an ARC reader for “How Dark Romance Is Therapy and the Science Behind It” which was written by a very controversially known, often banned author, Miranda Grant. Truthfully, you should read my review and the dozens of others pouring in and this book before you form an opinion..it’s truly opened my eyes and perfectly explained things.
Here’s the review :
I used to think I simply loved reading, and truthfully, I do. But I’ve always been a dark romance/morally grey lover, and since I started really digging into my trauma and working toward healing, I’ve noticed that my desire to read books that align with things I’ve experienced has only gotten stronger.
I was diagnosed with CPTSD and have been working through EMDR therapy. I never really thought about the fact that I’ve always gravitated toward books with themes connected to things I’ve lived through. I used to joke that these books were “healing” or that I somehow felt better after reading them. It wasn’t until someone pointed me toward Miranda Grant that I started wondering if there was actually something behind that feeling.
I’ll be honest: I haven’t read Miranda’s novels yet. I started with How Dark Romance Is Therapy, not because I don’t want to read them, but because some of the themes intimidate me. I told Miranda about my triggers and concerns, including some of the more extreme scenes involving children and horror elements.
Instead of judging me or questioning how I could review her book without reading her novels, she personally talked with me about where I could start, which themes appear in which books, and what I may want to avoid. She even told me that if I decided not to read certain books because I felt better that way, that was completely okay. That honestly meant a lot to me, and I think it says a lot about the message of this book.
These stories aren’t for everyone. But for the people who need them, they can make you feel heard, less crazy, understood, and sometimes give you a cathartic way to process things you don’t know how to put into words. As Miranda explains, reading these stories as survivors rather than victims gives us something we may have lost in real life: control. We can close the book. We can put it down. We can never return to it, or come back when we’re ready. One of the sections that hit me hardest was about the less “obvious” forms of sexual assault and how someone may not even realize they were assaulted or raped. Honestly? I’m one of those people.
It completely changed the way I looked at some of my own experiences. Being encouraged to drink and feeling obligated to do so to fit in didn’t mean that being too drunk to protest meant I consented. It didn’t. And learning that what happened was still rape has been incredibly difficult for me to process. I also began understanding that marriage doesn’t automatically equal consent. During EMDR, I had a memory surface that I explained to my therapist. She looked at me and said, “Hun, that was rape. You were raped.” Even writing that is still hard.
So when Miranda discusses victims who don’t freeze, who fawn, who are too intoxicated to consent, who are bullied, guilted, coerced, or given ultimatums, it hit home in a way I wasn’t expecting. Realizing I wasn’t the only woman who needed someone else to help her recognize what happened to her was comforting in itself. And I don’t think you have to have experienced the exact same trauma portrayed in these books for them to be needed. I’ve experienced emotional and physical abuse, as well as what I’ve learned to recognize as sexual abuse and rape. Dark romance, pitch-black books, and morally grey stories have helped me understand things about myself that I didn’t understand before.
They’ve also helped me see emotional abuse and narcissistic behavior from the outside while still recognizing what it feels like from the inside. Someone can truly be a monster to you without looking like one to everyone else. Another huge part of this for me has been seeing women in these books who are so trauma bonded that they don’t leave. They know they should. They may even have everyone telling them to leave, but they don’t, because it isn’t always that simple. Most of the time? It’s not.
The abuse may vary. Sometimes it’s physical, sometimes it’s emotional, and sometimes it’s the manipulation, fear, guilt, coercion, threats, or all of it together. Oftentimes, the person hurting you knows exactly how to make you question yourself, feel crazy, or become terrified to leave. And then you’re left asking, “WHY am I staying?” Those are the moments people need to understand before judging a survivor for not leaving sooner. It’s easy to say, “I would have left.” It’s much harder to understand what it’s like when you’re the one living inside the fear, confusion, trauma bond, and manipulation.
I still don’t know how many of Miranda’s novels I’ll ultimately read, and I am happy to discuss those possibilities with Miranda herself. However, How Dark Romance Is Therapy is one of the best explanations I’ve come across for why people like me can find healing, control, understanding, and comfort within these books. I truly think people should read this before judging readers who find something in dark romance that they don’t understand. Miranda isn’t pretending these books aren’t dark. She openly acknowledges that some are incredibly triggering and not only admits but openly states that many of her books are not for everyone. She even goes as far as suggesting that certain people should not read them if they fear being traumatized all over again.
But for the people who NEED them? She’s essentially saying, “Here they are. You’re not alone.” Dark romance isn’t going to be therapy for everyone, and that’s perfectly fine. But for some of us, it can be the first place we finally feel understood, and Miranda’s book beautifully helped me understand why. I highly encourage you to give this book a read before you start preaching about how her readers, her writing, or any similar books and authors are terrible people.
The last thing I will add is something you often hear: that dark romance and pitch-black books will give people bad ideas or somehow make people do terrible things. But as Miranda explains, just like video games and other forms of media, a person doesn’t simply read a book and suddenly become a bad person who does evil things. They were already capable of making those choices. Reading the book didn’t make them evil, just like the outfit or the alcohol didn’t make the girl deserve to be raped.
Here’s the review :
I used to think I simply loved reading, and truthfully, I do. But I’ve always been a dark romance/morally grey lover, and since I started really digging into my trauma and working toward healing, I’ve noticed that my desire to read books that align with things I’ve experienced has only gotten stronger.
I was diagnosed with CPTSD and have been working through EMDR therapy. I never really thought about the fact that I’ve always gravitated toward books with themes connected to things I’ve lived through. I used to joke that these books were “healing” or that I somehow felt better after reading them. It wasn’t until someone pointed me toward Miranda Grant that I started wondering if there was actually something behind that feeling.
I’ll be honest: I haven’t read Miranda’s novels yet. I started with How Dark Romance Is Therapy, not because I don’t want to read them, but because some of the themes intimidate me. I told Miranda about my triggers and concerns, including some of the more extreme scenes involving children and horror elements.
Instead of judging me or questioning how I could review her book without reading her novels, she personally talked with me about where I could start, which themes appear in which books, and what I may want to avoid. She even told me that if I decided not to read certain books because I felt better that way, that was completely okay. That honestly meant a lot to me, and I think it says a lot about the message of this book.
These stories aren’t for everyone. But for the people who need them, they can make you feel heard, less crazy, understood, and sometimes give you a cathartic way to process things you don’t know how to put into words. As Miranda explains, reading these stories as survivors rather than victims gives us something we may have lost in real life: control. We can close the book. We can put it down. We can never return to it, or come back when we’re ready. One of the sections that hit me hardest was about the less “obvious” forms of sexual assault and how someone may not even realize they were assaulted or raped. Honestly? I’m one of those people.
It completely changed the way I looked at some of my own experiences. Being encouraged to drink and feeling obligated to do so to fit in didn’t mean that being too drunk to protest meant I consented. It didn’t. And learning that what happened was still rape has been incredibly difficult for me to process. I also began understanding that marriage doesn’t automatically equal consent. During EMDR, I had a memory surface that I explained to my therapist. She looked at me and said, “Hun, that was rape. You were raped.” Even writing that is still hard.
So when Miranda discusses victims who don’t freeze, who fawn, who are too intoxicated to consent, who are bullied, guilted, coerced, or given ultimatums, it hit home in a way I wasn’t expecting. Realizing I wasn’t the only woman who needed someone else to help her recognize what happened to her was comforting in itself. And I don’t think you have to have experienced the exact same trauma portrayed in these books for them to be needed. I’ve experienced emotional and physical abuse, as well as what I’ve learned to recognize as sexual abuse and rape. Dark romance, pitch-black books, and morally grey stories have helped me understand things about myself that I didn’t understand before.
They’ve also helped me see emotional abuse and narcissistic behavior from the outside while still recognizing what it feels like from the inside. Someone can truly be a monster to you without looking like one to everyone else. Another huge part of this for me has been seeing women in these books who are so trauma bonded that they don’t leave. They know they should. They may even have everyone telling them to leave, but they don’t, because it isn’t always that simple. Most of the time? It’s not.
The abuse may vary. Sometimes it’s physical, sometimes it’s emotional, and sometimes it’s the manipulation, fear, guilt, coercion, threats, or all of it together. Oftentimes, the person hurting you knows exactly how to make you question yourself, feel crazy, or become terrified to leave. And then you’re left asking, “WHY am I staying?” Those are the moments people need to understand before judging a survivor for not leaving sooner. It’s easy to say, “I would have left.” It’s much harder to understand what it’s like when you’re the one living inside the fear, confusion, trauma bond, and manipulation.
I still don’t know how many of Miranda’s novels I’ll ultimately read, and I am happy to discuss those possibilities with Miranda herself. However, How Dark Romance Is Therapy is one of the best explanations I’ve come across for why people like me can find healing, control, understanding, and comfort within these books. I truly think people should read this before judging readers who find something in dark romance that they don’t understand. Miranda isn’t pretending these books aren’t dark. She openly acknowledges that some are incredibly triggering and not only admits but openly states that many of her books are not for everyone. She even goes as far as suggesting that certain people should not read them if they fear being traumatized all over again.
But for the people who NEED them? She’s essentially saying, “Here they are. You’re not alone.” Dark romance isn’t going to be therapy for everyone, and that’s perfectly fine. But for some of us, it can be the first place we finally feel understood, and Miranda’s book beautifully helped me understand why. I highly encourage you to give this book a read before you start preaching about how her readers, her writing, or any similar books and authors are terrible people.
The last thing I will add is something you often hear: that dark romance and pitch-black books will give people bad ideas or somehow make people do terrible things. But as Miranda explains, just like video games and other forms of media, a person doesn’t simply read a book and suddenly become a bad person who does evil things. They were already capable of making those choices. Reading the book didn’t make them evil, just like the outfit or the alcohol didn’t make the girl deserve to be raped.
August 24, 2026
First and foremost, How Dark Romance Is Therapy is NOT a dark romance novel. Despite what the title might initially lead you to believe, this isn't a fictional romance story at all.
Instead, it's an educational and exploratory look at dark romance as a genre. Why we're drawn to it, what we may get from reading it, and the ways fiction can provide a safe space to explore themes, emotions, fantasies, and experiences that would be very different in real life.
Given the current online climate, where dark romance readers are constantly being judged and harassed simply for their choice of fictional books, I honestly think a book like this is more relevant now than ever.
I was given an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review, and as someone who already reads and enjoys dark romance, I was incredibly curious to dive into Miranda’s findings.
So much of what dark romance gives me as a reader is something I’ve always understood and felt on a more instinctual level, but haven’t necessarily known how to explain or put into words. I wanted to see those feelings explored, validated, and given a language that could help articulate the why behind something I already knew to be true in my bones.
I can, of course, only speak for myself and my own reasons for reading dark romance. But if you're someone who doesn't read the genre and genuinely wants to understand why so many of us do, I think you should pick up this book. You don't have to like dark romance. You don't have to agree with or enjoy the things we choose to read. But this book might help you understand why we read it—and perhaps understand the distinction between enjoying something within the safety of fiction and condoning it in real life a little better.
Perhaps most importantly, this book doesn't rely solely on Miranda's findings or perspective. It also makes space for the voices of many SA survivors, including myself, some of whom may not have been able to speak openly about these experiences before. Seeing my own words printed on the pages of this book was simultaneously terrifying and incredibly liberating.
And this is where I want to address the people who go online and condemn dark romance on behalf of SA survivors. The ones who tell readers that these books are harmful, offensive, or "a slap in the face" to survivors, while speaking as though survivors are one collective voice with one acceptable response to trauma.
We aren't.
If you genuinely want to support SA survivors and have an informed discussion about dark romance, then I encourage you to read this book. Listen to our voices—not just the ones that validate the opinion you already hold. Listen to the survivors who find comfort, catharsis, control, healing, or simply enjoyment within these fictional spaces.
You don't have to understand our choices. You don't have to make the same ones. But please don't claim to advocate for us while simultaneously telling us what we should or shouldn't be allowed to read, how we should process our own experiences, or what fiction we're permitted to find comfort in.
If you truly want to support survivors, start by respecting our autonomy.
Listen to us. Believe us. And please, don't take our choices away from us yet again.
Lastly I want to thank Miranda for writing this book and for always creating a safe space for us. Her willingness to listen, understand, and make room for our experiences means more than I can put into words. This book is a reflection of that care, and I’m deeply grateful for the compassion and safety she continues to offer survivors.
Instead, it's an educational and exploratory look at dark romance as a genre. Why we're drawn to it, what we may get from reading it, and the ways fiction can provide a safe space to explore themes, emotions, fantasies, and experiences that would be very different in real life.
Given the current online climate, where dark romance readers are constantly being judged and harassed simply for their choice of fictional books, I honestly think a book like this is more relevant now than ever.
I was given an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review, and as someone who already reads and enjoys dark romance, I was incredibly curious to dive into Miranda’s findings.
So much of what dark romance gives me as a reader is something I’ve always understood and felt on a more instinctual level, but haven’t necessarily known how to explain or put into words. I wanted to see those feelings explored, validated, and given a language that could help articulate the why behind something I already knew to be true in my bones.
I can, of course, only speak for myself and my own reasons for reading dark romance. But if you're someone who doesn't read the genre and genuinely wants to understand why so many of us do, I think you should pick up this book. You don't have to like dark romance. You don't have to agree with or enjoy the things we choose to read. But this book might help you understand why we read it—and perhaps understand the distinction between enjoying something within the safety of fiction and condoning it in real life a little better.
Perhaps most importantly, this book doesn't rely solely on Miranda's findings or perspective. It also makes space for the voices of many SA survivors, including myself, some of whom may not have been able to speak openly about these experiences before. Seeing my own words printed on the pages of this book was simultaneously terrifying and incredibly liberating.
And this is where I want to address the people who go online and condemn dark romance on behalf of SA survivors. The ones who tell readers that these books are harmful, offensive, or "a slap in the face" to survivors, while speaking as though survivors are one collective voice with one acceptable response to trauma.
We aren't.
If you genuinely want to support SA survivors and have an informed discussion about dark romance, then I encourage you to read this book. Listen to our voices—not just the ones that validate the opinion you already hold. Listen to the survivors who find comfort, catharsis, control, healing, or simply enjoyment within these fictional spaces.
You don't have to understand our choices. You don't have to make the same ones. But please don't claim to advocate for us while simultaneously telling us what we should or shouldn't be allowed to read, how we should process our own experiences, or what fiction we're permitted to find comfort in.
If you truly want to support survivors, start by respecting our autonomy.
Listen to us. Believe us. And please, don't take our choices away from us yet again.
Lastly I want to thank Miranda for writing this book and for always creating a safe space for us. Her willingness to listen, understand, and make room for our experiences means more than I can put into words. This book is a reflection of that care, and I’m deeply grateful for the compassion and safety she continues to offer survivors.
August 18, 2026
★★★★★ 10/10
I genuinely don’t even know how to properly put this review into words because this book gave me words that I have never been able to find myself.
How Dark Romance Is Therapy by Miranda Grant isn’t a traditional dark romance novel. Instead, it dives into the psychology and science behind dark romance and explores why people—women and men alike—are drawn to these stories, their themes, their characters, and the emotions they evoke.
And honestly? It completely changed the way I look at my own reading preferences.
I’ve experienced different forms of abuse and trauma throughout my life, and I have never once stopped to think about how those experiences could potentially influence the things I gravitate toward when I read. When people ask me why I love dark romance, my usual answer has always been something along the lines of, “I just like the storylines,” or “The spice is definitely a bonus.” But I’ve never been able to explain the why behind it.
This book helped me understand that.
It helped me understand why dark romance can feel like a safe space for some readers. Why fictional situations can allow us to explore emotions, fears, trauma, control, intimacy, love, and connection from a place where we ultimately have control over the experience.
And that’s something I don’t think people outside of the genre always understand.
People can be incredibly quick to call dark romance readers “crazy,” “disgusting,” or question why we would ever want to read about certain things. But they don’t always stop to ask why someone is drawn to these stories or what those stories might represent to them.
Dark romance isn’t always about the darkness.
Sometimes it’s about the connection between two characters. Sometimes it’s about feeling understood. Sometimes it’s about safety. Sometimes it’s about exploring things that would be terrifying in reality from the safety of fiction. And sometimes, yes, it’s about the spice. 😂
But it’s so much deeper than that.
This book actually made me emotional. There were moments where it brought memories and feelings to the surface that I wasn’t necessarily expecting, and I definitely shed some tears while reading it. But strangely enough, I think I needed that.
Because for the first time, I found myself thinking about a part of my life and realizing, “Wait… maybe THIS is where some of this started.”
That realization was incredibly powerful.
Miranda Grant somehow put into words the things I have tried and failed to explain when people question my love for dark romance.
So now, when someone asks me:
“Why do you read books like that?”
I finally have an answer.
“Read How Dark Romance Is Therapy by Miranda Grant, and then you’ll understand.”
This is genuinely a book I will be recommending to anyone who has ever judged dark romance readers without trying to understand them.
10/10. Absolutely unforgettable. 🖤
I genuinely don’t even know how to properly put this review into words because this book gave me words that I have never been able to find myself.
How Dark Romance Is Therapy by Miranda Grant isn’t a traditional dark romance novel. Instead, it dives into the psychology and science behind dark romance and explores why people—women and men alike—are drawn to these stories, their themes, their characters, and the emotions they evoke.
And honestly? It completely changed the way I look at my own reading preferences.
I’ve experienced different forms of abuse and trauma throughout my life, and I have never once stopped to think about how those experiences could potentially influence the things I gravitate toward when I read. When people ask me why I love dark romance, my usual answer has always been something along the lines of, “I just like the storylines,” or “The spice is definitely a bonus.” But I’ve never been able to explain the why behind it.
This book helped me understand that.
It helped me understand why dark romance can feel like a safe space for some readers. Why fictional situations can allow us to explore emotions, fears, trauma, control, intimacy, love, and connection from a place where we ultimately have control over the experience.
And that’s something I don’t think people outside of the genre always understand.
People can be incredibly quick to call dark romance readers “crazy,” “disgusting,” or question why we would ever want to read about certain things. But they don’t always stop to ask why someone is drawn to these stories or what those stories might represent to them.
Dark romance isn’t always about the darkness.
Sometimes it’s about the connection between two characters. Sometimes it’s about feeling understood. Sometimes it’s about safety. Sometimes it’s about exploring things that would be terrifying in reality from the safety of fiction. And sometimes, yes, it’s about the spice. 😂
But it’s so much deeper than that.
This book actually made me emotional. There were moments where it brought memories and feelings to the surface that I wasn’t necessarily expecting, and I definitely shed some tears while reading it. But strangely enough, I think I needed that.
Because for the first time, I found myself thinking about a part of my life and realizing, “Wait… maybe THIS is where some of this started.”
That realization was incredibly powerful.
Miranda Grant somehow put into words the things I have tried and failed to explain when people question my love for dark romance.
So now, when someone asks me:
“Why do you read books like that?”
I finally have an answer.
“Read How Dark Romance Is Therapy by Miranda Grant, and then you’ll understand.”
This is genuinely a book I will be recommending to anyone who has ever judged dark romance readers without trying to understand them.
10/10. Absolutely unforgettable. 🖤
August 24, 2026
My honest review is that this book is absolutely amazing. I don’t think I’ve read anything like it. I’m really happy I got to be an ARC reader for this book. After reading this I’m honestly extra honored, I don’t care if it sounds weird. I’m really glad someone finally spoke up and brought this to light.
I absolutely love everything in this book honestly. Miranda brings to light what society doesn’t want to acknowledge. I appreciate throughout the whole book there isn’t once that she blames the victim of any trauma. Miranda defines things clearly in the beginning so people don’t get confused with definitions throughout the book, which is great for those who don’t understand the dark romance world.
There are things that I didn’t even think about, that may apply to my real life situations and I’ve been through so much therapy myself. I think it’s opened my eyes to things that I didn’t even realize were going on. She wrote about how reading dark romance can help us towards forgiveness on our own terms. Which I feel like is the hardest part in my own journey. How dark romance is a therapeutic tool overall. She opens up and explains to those who may not have been through trauma, a picture to understand it a little.
Within the book she provides various researches as well from credible sources, to understand certain points she makes. Miranda also does her own survey and provides the data from that as well!
I love dark romance and I always will. This I believe is a door opener for hopefully more research on this topic.
Because I myself do believe Dark Romance is Therapy.
Below are my two favorite quotes from this book <3
“Dark Romance. It gives us the power to not just figure out how to talk about our trauma with others; it also teaches us how to talk about it with ourselves.”
“Trauma might be an invisible-to-the-eye injury, but it's still a physical injury to the most important organ you have. You can be revived if your heart stops; you can't be if your brain stops.”
I absolutely love everything in this book honestly. Miranda brings to light what society doesn’t want to acknowledge. I appreciate throughout the whole book there isn’t once that she blames the victim of any trauma. Miranda defines things clearly in the beginning so people don’t get confused with definitions throughout the book, which is great for those who don’t understand the dark romance world.
There are things that I didn’t even think about, that may apply to my real life situations and I’ve been through so much therapy myself. I think it’s opened my eyes to things that I didn’t even realize were going on. She wrote about how reading dark romance can help us towards forgiveness on our own terms. Which I feel like is the hardest part in my own journey. How dark romance is a therapeutic tool overall. She opens up and explains to those who may not have been through trauma, a picture to understand it a little.
Within the book she provides various researches as well from credible sources, to understand certain points she makes. Miranda also does her own survey and provides the data from that as well!
I love dark romance and I always will. This I believe is a door opener for hopefully more research on this topic.
Because I myself do believe Dark Romance is Therapy.
Below are my two favorite quotes from this book <3
“Dark Romance. It gives us the power to not just figure out how to talk about our trauma with others; it also teaches us how to talk about it with ourselves.”
“Trauma might be an invisible-to-the-eye injury, but it's still a physical injury to the most important organ you have. You can be revived if your heart stops; you can't be if your brain stops.”
August 16, 2026
✨ ARC Reader Review ✨
I was honored to be chosen to be an ARC Reader “How Dark Romance is Therapy”
First this is a Non-Fiction, but I absolutely believe is a MUST read.
This book was written beautifully and brutally honest about readers of Dark Romance and the hate we receive by some. And also the hate the writers receive.
While she is not a professional, and she does state this numerous times, she clearly does extensive research to give readers a better understanding of why people enjoy reading Dark Romance.
The importance and the benefits of both Dark Readers and Non Dark Readers to read THIS book would be so eye opening.
I feel we as Dark Readers are judged so harshly sometimes without people fully grasping WHY we enjoy it. This book would be so helpful.
This quite literally should be read as a “we listen and we don’t judge”
I feel like if more people would take the time to read this book (and it is a short read) they could understand us better and not chastise us.
She gives straight forward facts and gives her readers a voice. Literally, the end is nothing but quotes and remarks from readers who voiced their opinions on how Dark Romance makes them feel and/or HELPS them.
For the Non-Dark Readers who are always trying to ban our books and silence us, now’s your chance to listen to victims!
I never thought a non-fiction book could bring me so many emotions.
Please read this with an open mind 🙂🖤 Listen. Let it sink in.
Thank you Miranda!
I was honored to be chosen to be an ARC Reader “How Dark Romance is Therapy”
First this is a Non-Fiction, but I absolutely believe is a MUST read.
This book was written beautifully and brutally honest about readers of Dark Romance and the hate we receive by some. And also the hate the writers receive.
While she is not a professional, and she does state this numerous times, she clearly does extensive research to give readers a better understanding of why people enjoy reading Dark Romance.
The importance and the benefits of both Dark Readers and Non Dark Readers to read THIS book would be so eye opening.
I feel we as Dark Readers are judged so harshly sometimes without people fully grasping WHY we enjoy it. This book would be so helpful.
This quite literally should be read as a “we listen and we don’t judge”
I feel like if more people would take the time to read this book (and it is a short read) they could understand us better and not chastise us.
She gives straight forward facts and gives her readers a voice. Literally, the end is nothing but quotes and remarks from readers who voiced their opinions on how Dark Romance makes them feel and/or HELPS them.
For the Non-Dark Readers who are always trying to ban our books and silence us, now’s your chance to listen to victims!
I never thought a non-fiction book could bring me so many emotions.
Please read this with an open mind 🙂🖤 Listen. Let it sink in.
Thank you Miranda!
August 18, 2026
WOW truthfully all I can say is WOW.. This gives you so much insight on to how reading dark romance can actually help heal a survivor. Backed by research the author gives you a complete look on the different healing abilities reading gives you. She goes into details about different strategies used in therapy and how different aspects in reading do the same thing. "Dark Romance, and reading in general, gives us the chance to rebuild the areas of our brain that trauma has damaged." I was given insight on why trigger warnings are important, previous to this I used trigger warning as a menu but now I understand. "And that is why trigger warnings and correct genre labels are so important. they give the reader the choice to step into that room full of snarling dogs." A child of abuse loses so much and have no way to express their feelings on it. "“When children are creative, they exercise part of their brain that allows them to problem solve and think outside the box. During creative play, they problem solve in random ways and sometimes come up with fantastic ideas.” – Dr Halsey" ... one of the most powerful quotes for me from this book is "So many people say, “real victims wouldn’t like this genre” and “Dark Romance is a slap in the face to real victims”. they talk right over real victims and dismiss us as actual victims because we do not look like what they want us to look like." This quote sums up the entire book for me.
August 21, 2026
⭐️ARC REVIEW ⭐️
I had the privilege of being chosen to read and review ‘How Dark Romance is therapy’ I have never read a book like this before, never read about studies Im strictly a fiction girl. I have read all Miranda’s work so I’m no newbie to the pitch black romance world. This book did open my eyes to what SA survivors have to go through and how they use dark romance as therapy and it totally makes sense. For anyone that has experienced SA I would recommend reading this and for those who ho want to understand why people would read dark romance!
Honestly it has forever changed the way I will think about the pitch black and dark romance I read from now on, the combination of facts and SA survivors accounts and feelings just gave the whole book depth and honestly parts of it I felt like I was either talking to Miranda and listening to her or like I was her diary and she was getting everything off her chest to me. (If that makes sense) even though it was a book about science it also felt personal. I will definitely be recommending this book to all my fellow dark romance girls and also friends that I know have been victims of SA. All I can say is please keep up what you’re doing and give a big ole finger to all the haters!!! 🖤🖤
I had the privilege of being chosen to read and review ‘How Dark Romance is therapy’ I have never read a book like this before, never read about studies Im strictly a fiction girl. I have read all Miranda’s work so I’m no newbie to the pitch black romance world. This book did open my eyes to what SA survivors have to go through and how they use dark romance as therapy and it totally makes sense. For anyone that has experienced SA I would recommend reading this and for those who ho want to understand why people would read dark romance!
Honestly it has forever changed the way I will think about the pitch black and dark romance I read from now on, the combination of facts and SA survivors accounts and feelings just gave the whole book depth and honestly parts of it I felt like I was either talking to Miranda and listening to her or like I was her diary and she was getting everything off her chest to me. (If that makes sense) even though it was a book about science it also felt personal. I will definitely be recommending this book to all my fellow dark romance girls and also friends that I know have been victims of SA. All I can say is please keep up what you’re doing and give a big ole finger to all the haters!!! 🖤🖤
August 19, 2026
I think this book is the perfect introduction, or rather, a guide through dark romance because it shows you the other side. Why do people read it? Why do people relate to certain things? I am not a victim and I never have been, but I can see why some survivors prefer reading these kinds of books. I never thought that reading a certain genre put a label on the reader, but unfortunately, many others do!Although this book doesn’t have characters or a plot per se, it was very enlightening for me because it gave me a lot of perspective on the things I like and enjoy reading about. Also, the fact that the author takes the time to properly explain what writing these kinds of stories is about and how to handle them was the icing on the cake for me. You know when you adore a book and you want to know more about the inspiration behind it and get snippets from the author? You get that here, and it meant the world to me!Miranda's books are not light and are not for everyone, but that is okay! The global "library" is full of all kinds of authors; you just have to find your favorites and avoid criticizing what others prefer.
August 27, 2026
How Dark Romance is Therapy
I needed to sit with this one for a little bit after I finished it. Not because it was bad or that it sent me spiraling, but because it came from a place so profound and deep that it hit the part of me that needed to be healed. It made so much more sense to me that the reason I can resonate with and connect with so many of the characters and other readers is because they have also gone through horrible experiences and trauma.
Miranda Grant does an amazing job of explaining things and connecting her resources to real things that everyone might have experienced. She doesn’t just tell you, she paints a picture of tremendous impact as to why she feels that it’s therapeutic to read/write dark romance. Personally, I’m never explaining myself again… I’m just going to hand them, How Dark Romance is Therapy, by Miranda Grant, and ask them to sit with it for a little while before asking anyone that question again and what place they’re coming from with it. If it’s to judge, see yourself out, but if it’s to empathize and try to see it from a victims perspective, go ahead and ask.
Miranda, thank you for writing this book. 🫶🏻💜
I needed to sit with this one for a little bit after I finished it. Not because it was bad or that it sent me spiraling, but because it came from a place so profound and deep that it hit the part of me that needed to be healed. It made so much more sense to me that the reason I can resonate with and connect with so many of the characters and other readers is because they have also gone through horrible experiences and trauma.
Miranda Grant does an amazing job of explaining things and connecting her resources to real things that everyone might have experienced. She doesn’t just tell you, she paints a picture of tremendous impact as to why she feels that it’s therapeutic to read/write dark romance. Personally, I’m never explaining myself again… I’m just going to hand them, How Dark Romance is Therapy, by Miranda Grant, and ask them to sit with it for a little while before asking anyone that question again and what place they’re coming from with it. If it’s to judge, see yourself out, but if it’s to empathize and try to see it from a victims perspective, go ahead and ask.
Miranda, thank you for writing this book. 🫶🏻💜
August 18, 2026
I was honored by Miranda Grant to be an ARC reader for her book.
As most of us dark readers know, these types of genres pull from obsessions, power dynamics, danger, captor energy, and possessiveness, amongst other things. It always baffles me how some can tell trauma victims or how I prefer to call us (trauma healers) how they should cope or how to properly heal. I have a history of abuse from a trusted source as a teenager, and this book opened even my eyes to a perspective on how this could help.
In my opinion, this book was written with such a passion for understanding why we read dark romance with sound educational research, it shows why some readers with trauma/abuse find healing in reading this type of genre.
As a side note: Dark Romance is not for everyone, but no one should feel ashamed for reading it. No author should be banned for writing it, there are trigger warning for a reason, it only takes few minutes to review them. If you do read them and decide to read the book anyway that is on you, not the author.
As most of us dark readers know, these types of genres pull from obsessions, power dynamics, danger, captor energy, and possessiveness, amongst other things. It always baffles me how some can tell trauma victims or how I prefer to call us (trauma healers) how they should cope or how to properly heal. I have a history of abuse from a trusted source as a teenager, and this book opened even my eyes to a perspective on how this could help.
In my opinion, this book was written with such a passion for understanding why we read dark romance with sound educational research, it shows why some readers with trauma/abuse find healing in reading this type of genre.
As a side note: Dark Romance is not for everyone, but no one should feel ashamed for reading it. No author should be banned for writing it, there are trigger warning for a reason, it only takes few minutes to review them. If you do read them and decide to read the book anyway that is on you, not the author.
August 18, 2026
ARC review:
I do not pick up a work of nonfiction too often. As a creature ruled by emotion, I need the work to speak to me.
I picked up this particular book for the topic and finished it for the authentic presence I found on every page.
Miranda writes this piece with such genuine passion, and in such a way that the words on the page feel more like a conversation than a scientific analysis of her findings.
By utilizing her own works and how they relate to the trauma experienced by herself and others, she shed light on the true definition of Dark Romance and why it is an important genre to not only maintain but understand.
This work gave voice to so many who struggle with abuse trauma and the part that dark romance plays into so many’s healing of that trauma.
The only 5 star nonfiction read I have ever had that is not a memoir.
Please read with an open heart and a seek to understand mentality.
I do not pick up a work of nonfiction too often. As a creature ruled by emotion, I need the work to speak to me.
I picked up this particular book for the topic and finished it for the authentic presence I found on every page.
Miranda writes this piece with such genuine passion, and in such a way that the words on the page feel more like a conversation than a scientific analysis of her findings.
By utilizing her own works and how they relate to the trauma experienced by herself and others, she shed light on the true definition of Dark Romance and why it is an important genre to not only maintain but understand.
This work gave voice to so many who struggle with abuse trauma and the part that dark romance plays into so many’s healing of that trauma.
The only 5 star nonfiction read I have ever had that is not a memoir.
Please read with an open heart and a seek to understand mentality.
August 18, 2026
How Dark Romance Is Therapy by Miranda Grant is definitely different from my typical reads. This is much more educational and research focused, and I’ll admit, there is a LOT of information to take in.
But the message behind it really stuck with me.
This book explores the psychology behind why some readers, particularly survivors of trauma and abuse, may find comfort, control, connection, or even healing within dark romance.
As someone who absolutely loves dark romance, it gave me a completely different perspective on why we can feel safe reading about things that would never be safe or acceptable in real life.
Dark romance isn't for everyone, and it doesn't have to be! But the people who read it aren't "sick" or "crazy" for finding something meaningful within those pages.
If you've ever wondered why dark romance can resonate so deeply with its readers, this is an interesting look at the science and psychology behind it.
Thank you Miranda Grant 💜
But the message behind it really stuck with me.
This book explores the psychology behind why some readers, particularly survivors of trauma and abuse, may find comfort, control, connection, or even healing within dark romance.
As someone who absolutely loves dark romance, it gave me a completely different perspective on why we can feel safe reading about things that would never be safe or acceptable in real life.
Dark romance isn't for everyone, and it doesn't have to be! But the people who read it aren't "sick" or "crazy" for finding something meaningful within those pages.
If you've ever wondered why dark romance can resonate so deeply with its readers, this is an interesting look at the science and psychology behind it.
Thank you Miranda Grant 💜
August 20, 2026
Trying to find a book the deep dives into the science and psychological aspect of dark romance well then this book is for you. I honestly think everyone needs to read this book. It helps to breakdown and explain things so well on why people gravitate towards dark romance reading.
Miranda Grant is so amazing at helping readers who have gone through trauma in there life be able to find a safe space/environment to come towards and this book helped explain all of this on how we as readers can find dark romance to be a therapy.
I use to be ashamed for reading dark romance, as people thought I was sick for being able to read “those type” of stories. But I don’t think they fully understand the depth that dark romance goes into, so now when they try and make me feel bad I am going to tell them to go read; How Dark Romance is Therapy, as it may show them more insight on why I enjoy reading dark romance.
Honestly this book was a 10/10! Will forever recommend it to people
Miranda Grant is so amazing at helping readers who have gone through trauma in there life be able to find a safe space/environment to come towards and this book helped explain all of this on how we as readers can find dark romance to be a therapy.
I use to be ashamed for reading dark romance, as people thought I was sick for being able to read “those type” of stories. But I don’t think they fully understand the depth that dark romance goes into, so now when they try and make me feel bad I am going to tell them to go read; How Dark Romance is Therapy, as it may show them more insight on why I enjoy reading dark romance.
Honestly this book was a 10/10! Will forever recommend it to people
August 16, 2026
*ARC review*
Miranda managed to put so much pain, clarity and truth on the pages that I wholeheartedly believe everyone would benefit from taking time out of their day and opening this book.
It doesn't matter whether you read dark romance or not, if you support it or not - the message Miranda has written is meant for everyone. For some of us - to be seen, and for others - to understand better.
Dark romance isn’t just silly little books - it’s a lifeline for so many of us and while I understand opinions differ, I ask every person who reads this to remain as kind, open-minded and supportive to others as they want to be treated themselves.
So, I thank you, Miranda, for making me cry, for making me uncomfortable and for keeping me hooked on this book from the first page to the last, just so I could close it, breathe out and keep going with the reminder you’ve left for us - WE MATTER.
Miranda managed to put so much pain, clarity and truth on the pages that I wholeheartedly believe everyone would benefit from taking time out of their day and opening this book.
It doesn't matter whether you read dark romance or not, if you support it or not - the message Miranda has written is meant for everyone. For some of us - to be seen, and for others - to understand better.
Dark romance isn’t just silly little books - it’s a lifeline for so many of us and while I understand opinions differ, I ask every person who reads this to remain as kind, open-minded and supportive to others as they want to be treated themselves.
So, I thank you, Miranda, for making me cry, for making me uncomfortable and for keeping me hooked on this book from the first page to the last, just so I could close it, breathe out and keep going with the reminder you’ve left for us - WE MATTER.
August 17, 2026
Firstly, this non fiction. Miranda has done her research on this and put all her effort into writing a book that explains why some dark romance readers enjoy these type of stories. She goes into great detail, uses data taken from institute’s and professionals regarding how your brain works or not in my case 🤣 During her research she sent out questionnaires to readers asking for their input, she adds her findings and quotes within the book.
Some of the research was quite eye opening for me, being of a certain generation of ‘seen and not heard’ this book took me back into memories that were pushed into a little darkened corner, that is not a bad thing, it pointed out so many reasons we just don’t associate with at the time. Her writing is precise, on point and you, get a lightbulb moment. I’d totally recommend this book, it shows you, you are not alone whilst being very informative 🫶🏻
Some of the research was quite eye opening for me, being of a certain generation of ‘seen and not heard’ this book took me back into memories that were pushed into a little darkened corner, that is not a bad thing, it pointed out so many reasons we just don’t associate with at the time. Her writing is precise, on point and you, get a lightbulb moment. I’d totally recommend this book, it shows you, you are not alone whilst being very informative 🫶🏻
August 19, 2026
If you are an SA survivor the emotions you go through don't always make sense. Sometimes you even wonder if there's something wrong with you. The author of this book put a lot of work into research, actual cited scientific research, into helping those of us that have experienced SA show that we're not alone AND that Dark Romance can help some of us process and heal from it. Obviously it's not for everyone, but the way she delves into this sensitive topic is extremely interesting and really makes you think.
I love the authors other works but I honestly wasn't sure how I'd feel about this one. I was definitely pleasantly surprised and I'd recommend this book for anyone who wants some insight into why some like the genre or if you are a dark romance reader, maybe a little insight into yourself even.
I love the authors other works but I honestly wasn't sure how I'd feel about this one. I was definitely pleasantly surprised and I'd recommend this book for anyone who wants some insight into why some like the genre or if you are a dark romance reader, maybe a little insight into yourself even.
August 19, 2026
This is a book you want to read if you think we are all mentally ill/ crazy or sick for the stuff we read. It gives you perspective on how survivors can turn to dark romance as a safety blanket and feel connected to the dark romance reader community. Knowing we are not alone.
These are facts and research Miranda did to show you the how and why, along with real reader feedback.
We are not sick in the head. We are not crazy.
If reading dark romance can make us feel not alone, then you can leave us alone, not read these books and just move on.
If you do want to see another perspective, then take a look at this book. Its actually really interesting once you break it down, to see how the reader might relate to characters in a dark romance novel.
These are facts and research Miranda did to show you the how and why, along with real reader feedback.
We are not sick in the head. We are not crazy.
If reading dark romance can make us feel not alone, then you can leave us alone, not read these books and just move on.
If you do want to see another perspective, then take a look at this book. Its actually really interesting once you break it down, to see how the reader might relate to characters in a dark romance novel.
August 25, 2026
Despite the title, this is not a dark romance novel. But do not let this stop you from devouring this book.
This piece of writing was able to put into words what I could not. This beautifully explained what I found so alluring when it comes to dark romance.
Knowing that most (not all) of dark romance writers were victims themselves makes the stories a little more healing for the soul.
Now, dark romance is not everyone's cup of tea, but after reading this, I would find it hard to believe that anyone would still judge someone for what they find interesting.
Plus, it is nice to know I wasn't sick and disturbed for the content that I find interesting to read. Everyone will have an opinion, Thank you, Miranda, for seeing and standing up for the dark romance movement.
This piece of writing was able to put into words what I could not. This beautifully explained what I found so alluring when it comes to dark romance.
Knowing that most (not all) of dark romance writers were victims themselves makes the stories a little more healing for the soul.
Now, dark romance is not everyone's cup of tea, but after reading this, I would find it hard to believe that anyone would still judge someone for what they find interesting.
Plus, it is nice to know I wasn't sick and disturbed for the content that I find interesting to read. Everyone will have an opinion, Thank you, Miranda, for seeing and standing up for the dark romance movement.
August 17, 2026
🖤 ARC reader review 🖤
I was chosen to be an arc reader for this book and I’m so happy I was. If you’ve ever questioned why people want to read dark romance, you NEED to read this book. Miranda describes it all so perfectly. Insightful, knowledgeable and despite it being a non fiction piece, so full of raw and honest emotion. It made me feel seen, heard and not alone. Also as someone writing their first dark romance/horror novel this was such a helpful resource. Truly fantastic.
Thank you Miranda. 💜
I was chosen to be an arc reader for this book and I’m so happy I was. If you’ve ever questioned why people want to read dark romance, you NEED to read this book. Miranda describes it all so perfectly. Insightful, knowledgeable and despite it being a non fiction piece, so full of raw and honest emotion. It made me feel seen, heard and not alone. Also as someone writing their first dark romance/horror novel this was such a helpful resource. Truly fantastic.
Thank you Miranda. 💜
August 27, 2026
Absolutely a must read for any SA survivor or somwone that wants to understand more about someone who is a survivor and reads dark romance. This book really explained the different forms of abuse especially what violent and non violent SA is. Everything that was described in the book is also based on actual facts and resources. The author also includes books that she has written that have gone into detail with many SA instances that are also described in this book. I for one, am glad that this book exists!
August 25, 2026
I had the privilege of being an ARC reader for this book. This book was therapy for me I didn't know I needed. The information she gathered for the book is educational for ALL readers, dark romance or not. It will take you on a journey of healing and know others out there are also helped. I hope everyone will keep an open mind, How Dark Romance Is Therapy is a must read.
August 19, 2026
This is a non fiction read that needs to be read and absorb. I usually read books in one sitting but this one I didn’t as I found myself sitting and thinking about what I was reading. An excellent well read piece of work that I would definitely recommend.
August 23, 2026
I really enjoyed this book. It was fairly informative, and gave good sources. But the main thing I like is that it sheds light on why so many of us (not all) like dark romance. We get to take some of the power back and heal a bit.
August 17, 2026
Excellent read! Couldn’t have a better, more insightful explanation than this. All inclusive, done from several perspectives, and well put together. Couldn’t recommend more!
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