Because Love Lives Beyond the Veil
Step into a world where old and contemporary romance defy and cross realms, as you enter into the magical universe of paranormal romance. In here, you’ll find vampires falling for humans, witches battling their destiny, and shifters meeting their once-in-a-lifetime soulmates – romantic subplot included!
Paranormal romance is more than just prevalent themes involving vampires; it’s books that feature characters brave enough to defy the odds and challenge norms, all while engaging in a romantic subplot that’s sure to be a page-turner.
While the genre has global roots, Australian authors have carved out a distinct place in paranormal romance by combining heart-stopping emotion with vividly local settings and strong, relatable characters. These authors prove that romance can be just as powerful on this side of the world.
What Is Paranormal Romance?
Paranormal romance blends character romance with elements of fantasy, mystery, and the supernatural. It is love stories with a twist, where ghosts, vampires, witches, or werewolves coexist with humans in tales that explore both desire and danger.
More than just science fiction and vampire romance, paranormal romance focuses on timeless human themes quite often (i.e. feelings of longing, trust, transformation) but elevates them with an otherworldly nature. This genre will leave you feeling thrilled, magical, and romantic all at once.
Notable Australian Authors of Paranormal Romance
Australia has produced a number of talented writers in the supernatural and paranormal setting. Here are some standout names worth adding to your bookshelf:
- Keri Arthur – One of Australia’s most internationally acclaimed paranormal authors, Keri Arthur is best known for her Riley Jenson Guardian series and Souls of Fire novels. Her books blend fast-paced urban fantasy with a romantic subplot included, often featuring vampires, shapeshifters, and other supernatural beings living hidden among humans.
- Mel Teshco – A prolific romance author, Mel Teshco writes passionate fantasy-based plots featuring everything from aliens to vampires. Her series Nightmix and Dragons of Riddich have earned her a devoted global following.
- Shona Husk – Known for her deeply emotional style, Shona Husk’s Shadowlands and Court of Annwyn are series that feature more prevalent themes such as fae lore, curses, and forbidden love. Her writing combines fantasy world-building with poignant, character-driven romance.
- Nalini Singh – Though born in Fiji and based in New Zealand, Singh has a strong following among Australian readers. Her Psy-Changeling and Guild Hunter series are internationally acclaimed examples of high-stakes paranormal romance with strong fantasy-based plots.
- Tracey O’Hara – Author of the Dark Brethren series, O’Hara brings an Australian sensibility to dark urban fantasy, and includes elements such as crime, passion, and supernatural intrigue. She’s known for books featuring characters that are strong, flawed, and fiercely independent.
- Kylie Scott – Best known for her contemporary life romances, Scott also delves into the supernatural with her Flesh series, a steamy, humorous, post-apocalyptic romance saga filled with danger and desire.
- Nicole R. Taylor – Author of The Witch Hunter Saga and The Crescent Witch Chronicles, Taylor’s work blends Australian paranormal settings with vampire mythology and witchcraft. Her novels are fast-paced, romantic, and steeped in mystery.
- Jessica Clare (writing as Jill Myles) – Known for her paranormal and fantasy romance titles, Clare’s stories are witty, sexy, and unafraid to play with genre conventions.
Themes and Appeal of Paranormal Romance
Why do readers fall for stories that mix romance with the supernatural? The answer lies in the tension between fantasy and emotion.
- Escapism with depth – Paranormal romance offers a chance to explore impossible worlds while still connecting to deeply human feelings like true love, fear, and hope.
- Empowered heroines – Many modern stories feature women who are brave, witty, and capable. These heroines have become beloved among their readers.
- Myth meets modernity – Australian paranormal romance focuses on mythology, magic, folklore, and even darkness, grounding the fantastical in something real.
Enduring passion – The supernatural element allows romance to transcend death, time, and even humanity. Where life feels finite, these love stories last forever.
The Rise of Paranormal Romance in Australia
Over the last decade, Australian authors have found growing international recognition for their paranormal romance and urban fantasy writing. The genre has now expanded beyond print into audiobooks, eBooks, and digital-first publishing platforms.
Many authors have also moved toward blending paranormal romance with other genres, such as dystopian thrillers and crime and mystery. This hybrid storytelling shows Australia’s changing literary scene, where genre boundaries are increasingly blurred in favour of emotional honesty and creative world-building.
FAQs About Paranormal Romance
What defines a paranormal romance?
Paranormal romance is a subgenre that combines romantic relationships with elements of the supernatural or fantasy, such as vampires, demons, witches, angels, ghosts, and other entities. The love story is central, but it unfolds within an otherworldly context.
Are paranormal romance books just for young adults?
Not at all! While some series target younger readers, most paranormal romances cater to adults, offering mature themes, complex characters, and emotional depth.
Where should I start if I’m new to the genre?
Begin with Keri Arthur’s The Dark Angels series, Nalini Singh’s Guild Hunter novels, or Shona Husk’s Shadowlands Trilogy. Each of these series is considered a classic in the paranormal romance genre, with elements of love, mystery, and the supernatural.
Discover Books You’ll Never Forget
If you’re drawn to stories where love defies the laws of nature and emotion meets the magical, paranormal romance is the book for you. Australian authors are redefining the genre with passionate, intelligent stories and strong, lovable characters.So begin your journey into romance. Find authors who spark your imagination and discover books that keep you turning pages late into the night.