Book Review: The Serpent and the Wings of Night

As a book blogger, I’ve encountered numerous novels – some that truly stand out and others that don’t quite hit the mark. When I discover a book that genuinely captivates me, I can’t help but feel thrilled. The Serpent and the Wings of Night by Carissa Broadbent is one such book.

This enthralling story masterfully blends action, heartfelt romance, dark magic, and bloodthirsty suspense, all set in a richly detailed world with compelling characters and excellent storytelling. It’s the first book in the new adult fantasy series Crowns of Nyaxia, which takes readers on a thrilling adventure filled with dark magic and intense intrigue. If you’re into new adult fantasy, this book should be on your must-read list!

The Serpent and the Wings of Night Summary

The story takes place in the harsh world of Obitraes, where vampires dominate and humans are hunted. We follow Oraya, the adopted human daughter of the Nightborn vampire king, who has carved out her place in this world designed to kill humans like her. Hoping to rise above her status as prey, she joins the Kejari, a legendary tournament held to determine who will earn a favor from the death goddess, Nyaxia.

In order to claim victory, Oraya must defeat the fiercest warriors from all three vampire houses. To survive, Oraya is forced to ally with Raihn, a mysterious rival who’s both dangerous and intriguing. Raihn is a ruthless vampire, an efficient killer, an enemy to her father’s crown, and a presence that unsettles and fascinates Oraya. Despite the risks he presents, Oraya finds herself oddly drawn to him.

As the tournament intensifies, she realizes that Raihn might understand her more than anyone else. But their growing attraction could be Oraya’s downfall in a kingdom where love can be the deadliest weapon. Their series of heart-wrenching encounters throughout the book keeps readers emotionally invested in their journey.

My Review

The Serpent and the Wings of Night completely absorbed me. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys dark fantasy, especially if you’re seeking a thrilling blend of magic and bloodthirsty intrigue. Brace yourself for an emotional roller coaster packed with action, heart-wrenching romance, dark magic, and suspense. The gradual development of love between Raihn and Oraya, intertwined with the ruthless and dangerous Kejari competition, creates a captivating narrative that left me eager for more.

I loved this book for its strong character development, surprising plot twists, and fascinating world-building. The relationships between the characters, especially Oraya and her adoptive father, Vincent, who happens to be the vampire king, are complex and intriguing. Unlike simple characters labeled as purely good or evil, these characters have layers that make you feel conflicted.

The different vampire houses and their unique magic systems add depth to the story and create a rich backdrop for the characters’ challenges and alliances. It’s not just about good versus evil; there are shades of gray that make the story more engaging. The world in which the story takes place is vividly crafted, drawing you into the struggles and triumphs of the characters.

I advise you to have a box of tissues nearby, I cried toward the end of the book, you’ll see why. Even after finishing the book, the characters lingered in my thoughts, their struggles and triumphs etched in my mind.

If you found this review helpful, you can check out the book at Bookshop.org here and support local bookstores along the way! With the recent release of book two and the standalone novella Six Scorched Roses, now is the perfect time to dive into the world of Crowns of Nyaxia and join Oraya on her thrilling adventure.