The World Is Hell But They Aren't
This is a list for those of you that love dark fantasy (dying gods, monsters in the woods, that kind of thing), but you also have a soft side for softies. These books still have that grim atmosphere, but they also have characters who are green flags. Someone who asks permission, protects without smothering, or just does the right thing when no one else will.
created by sweetsage
last updated October, 2026
Comments
i love a softie in a bleak setting! thank you for this list 🫶🏼
I hope these are good! I haven't read aaall of these. Some were my personal reccs, some were suggestions from my friend, but I trust her judgement 🙂↕️ You're welcome 🩷
46% overlap? Looks like I need to just add the rest!
Looks like it, you kinda have to now 👀 I'll take the blame!
May I recommend: This Monster of Mine by Sahlini Abeysekara! Love this list!
Oh, what a great recommendation, I hadn't heard about that one yet! Is there a softie in it? Saw it mention enemies to lovers, and I'm wondering if it fits with the softie vibes. Would love to add something new to this list!
Yes! The MMC is so sweet to the FMC and she’s very baffled by it. It’s a loose “enemies” tbh.
Lovely then, I'm adding it to this list! Thanks for the recommendation
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