Anathema

Maevyth is forced across a forbidden boundary into a nightmarish realm she never knew existed, where cursed souls and grotesque creatures roam—and where she discovers she's the key to a prophecy that could destroy her. Trapped in this dark, alluring world, she's placed under the watch of Zevander, a coldly lethal assassin cursed to keep her safe, though he'd much rather be anywhere else. As danger closes in from all sides and an ancient evil stirs in the depths of Witch Knell, the tension between them becomes impossible to ignore, and Zevander's growing obsession with Maevyth threatens to unravel everything he's built. This atmospheric, plot-heavy dark fantasy is perfect if you crave slow-burn romance wrapped in gothic dread and a magic system that feels completely fresh.