Asslamualaykum Wa Rahmatu Allah Wa Barakatuh. Hello, I'm a Hetero-romantic Asexual (attracted only emotionally) female, I was wondering is it a sin for me to read romantic novels and books? (even though I don't because I know it's haram) Alhamdulillah Allah has protected me from Zina because of my Asexuality, so does it give me permission or not? Please answer me shaikh to clear the confusion. Jazakallahu Khairan.

All perfect praise be to Allaah, The Lord of the Worlds. I testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allaah, and that Muhammad, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, is His slave and messenger.

We have already underlined the Islamic ruling on reading such romantic novels. Please refer to Fatwa 86046.

At any rate, reading such romantic novels is never free of religious violations. If you are safe from the danger of forbidden sexual outlet - given the absence of desire for sex or sexual attraction, you are still vulnerable to that of falling into impermissible love and passionate attraction.

Such novels have a strong magic-like effect on the reader as they control one's emotions. You have stated that you are hetero-romantic asexual and get emotionally attracted. How then would you be safe from falling into that abyss?

Therefore, you should beware of reading such novels to be safe than sorry. You should strive to use your time for what is of benefit in your life and religion. The Muslim’s time is too precious to be wasted in reading such novels. We have underlined some guidelines and advice in Fatwa 86533 for the Muslim to make full use of his time.

Allaah Knows best.