Published: 2023 | Genre: Romantasy | Pages: 504 | Rating: ★★★★☆
A Book That Sunk Its Fangs Into Me
I’m a total sucker for vampire stories, so when I grabbed The Serpent and the Wings of Night by Carissa Broadbent in 2023, I was ready for a thrill. Let me tell you, this romantasy delivered way more than I expected! It’s got heart-pounding action, a swoony romance, and a dark world that kept me up all night. If you love A Dowry of Blood or crave a mix of danger and desire, this book’s your next obsession. In this review, I’ll spill why The Serpent and the Wings of Night is so gripping and who’ll fall for its deadly charm.
What’s It About?
The story follows Oraya, a human raised by a vampire king in a brutal world ruled by bloodthirsty clans. To prove her worth and secure her place, she enters the Kejari, a legendary tournament where warriors fight to the death for power. Teaming up with Raihn, a rival vampire with his own agenda, Oraya faces deadly challenges that test her strength and heart. Their alliance starts rocky, but as they fight side by side, sparks fly—maybe even love. No spoilers, but expect a wild ride of betrayals, blood, and moments that’ll make your pulse race.
Broadbent’s world is dark and lush, with shadowy castles and moonlit arenas. As someone who loves gritty fantasy, I could almost taste the danger in the air. The vampire lore, with its warring houses and ancient rituals, feels fresh and intense.
Why It’s So Addictive
Broadbent’s writing is like a blade—sharp, smooth, and straight to the heart. Oraya is a heroine I rooted for hard: fierce, vulnerable, and full of fire. Her struggle to survive as a human among vampires had me on edge. Raihn, with his smirky charm and hidden depths, is the perfect match, and their slow-burn romance had me squealing. The tournament’s brutal trials—think gladiator fights with magic—kept the action pumping, and the plot twists? I gasped out loud more than once!
The story’s themes of trust and identity hit me deep. In 2025, when we’re all trying to find our place in a messy world, Oraya’s fight to belong feels so real. The diverse cast, with characters from different clans and backgrounds, adds richness to the world. Plus, the vampire vibes are sexy and dangerous, not sparkly, which I loved.
Any Flaws?
The Serpent and the Wings of Night is a stunner, but it’s not perfect. The first few chapters throw you into the deep end with a lot of world-building, which can feel heavy if you’re not ready. I had to reread some parts to get the clans straight. The tournament takes up most of the plot, so if you want more focus on romance or politics, you might feel shortchanged. A few side characters could use more depth, too. But these are small gripes in a book that’s otherwise a total knockout.
Who Should Read It?
This book’s a dream for romantasy fans who love vampires, high-stakes action, and steamy romance. If you’re into Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros or The Foxglove King by Hannah F. Whitten, you’ll devour this. It’s perfect for readers who enjoy dark fantasy and strong heroines, best for ages 16+ due to violence and spicy scenes. If you prefer light, fluffy reads, the gritty tone might be too intense.
Why It’s a Hit
The Serpent and the Wings of Night is all over BookTok in 2025, and I get the hype. Broadbent’s vampires feel new, not like every other bloodsucker story, and Oraya’s journey as an underdog is so inspiring. As the first in the Crowns of Nyaxia series, it sets up a bigger saga I’m dying to follow. In a romantasy world packed with dragons and fae, this vampire tale stands out like a star in the night.
My Final Verdict
The Serpent and the Wings of Night is a dark, thrilling romantasy that’ll sink its teeth into you and won’t let go. Carissa Broadbent crafts a world of blood and passion, with characters who steal your heart. I give it four out of five stars for its gripping plot and swoony romance, with a tiny dip for the dense start. If you’re ready to fight alongside Oraya, grab this book and brace for a wild ride.
Want to sink into this vampire world? Get The Serpent and the Wings of Night at your local bookstore or check Bookshop.org to support indie sellers. Read it yet? Share your thoughts in the comments!