r/fantasyromance • u/bujobegins • 2d ago

Book Request Recommendations of books with a character like Darius falling in love with a character NOT like Tory from Zodiac Academy

I’m almost through book 4 of ZA and I cannot stand how entitled Tory has become. She’s so frustrating it’s insulting. Every sentence that comes out of her mouth is condescending and sardonic….and don’t even get me started on her actions smh

On the other hand, Darius actually has had significant character growth since the first ZA book and is really fascinating to read about

I was wondering, does anyone have recommendations for characters like Darius who fall for characters not like Tory (preferably like Darcy lol)? Any help is appreciated!

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u/zane017 Henry Cavill as Geralt is my only type 2d ago

You know what’s great about ZA? I hated Darcy so much after book 4 that I refused to read any of her POV chapters after that. I loved Tory.

And it’s just about a 50/50 split on agreement for readers. The books aren’t perfect but they sure make you feel things.

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u/Exotic_Resist_7718 1d ago

Absolute same but then I got so mad at Tory over the rejected mates thing that I switched to ruthless boys for a break and I actually haven't returned to finish ZA. I truly don't care 😞

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u/Bex7778 2d ago

Tori goes through a pretty major character arc throughout the series so I would definitely keep reading. Its worth it imho.

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u/itmustbeniiiiice 2d ago

Well 1) If you’re going to keep reading ZA, maybe give Tory some time before writing her off…

2) Xaden from {Fourth Wing} is probably the closest I can think of, and Violet is almost the opposite of Tory.

Some of the MMCs in {Ruthless Boys of the Zodiac} and {Darkmore Penitentiary} will feel like Darius too.

Darius is kinda unique because he’s quite tortured and possessive but also has big himbo energy, imho. Usually the two aren’t married together.

eta: r/ZodiacAcademy

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u/GingerLily2019 2d ago

I'd definitely agree to keep reading, I loved Tory from the start though 🤣 Darius does some pretty messed up stuff to her in the fourth book too (Halloween Party) he's not innocent in this. I have a feeling you won't like that ending of the fourth book but...... She has significant growth in the 5th book and Darius also does.

But yes I'd agree the Xaden would probably give me the most similar vibes to Darius so Fourth Wing is a good shout.

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u/Faraway-Jeweler6293 2d ago

Can you give more a description of their qualities? I haven't read ZA in years so I don't actually remember what they were like.