Book Review: The Serpent and the Wings of Night by Carissa Broadbent
From the moment I stumbled upon The Serpent and the Wings of Night: Crowns of Nyaxia, Book 1 by Carissa Broadbent, I was captivated. The allure of a dark fantasy world brimming with vampires, intrigue, and a fierce human heroine had me intrigued from the get-go. Add in a competitive tournament hosted by the goddess of death? I was ready to dive deep into this atmospheric realm.
Key Themes and Characters
At its core, the novel explores survival, trust, and the complexities of love in a world where power is the ultimate currency. Oraya, the adopted daughter of the Nightborn vampire king, embodies resilience. Carissa Broadbent crafts her as a striking character—both vulnerable and fierce—who navigates a landscape filled with predators. The stakes rise when she enters the Kejari, a brutal tournament where only the strongest succeed. Through Oraya, we witness the essence of a strong female protagonist who must rely on her wits as much as her training, proving that cleverness can often outshine sheer strength.
The introduction of Raihn, a rival vampire who presents both danger and an unexpected connection, adds layers to the story. Their on-again, off-again alliance serves as a deliciously slow-burn romance that kept me eagerly turning the pages. I found their banter refreshing and filled with tension, perfectly capturing that electrifying push-and-pull often found in enemies-to-lovers narratives.
Writing Style and Pacing
Broadbent’s prose shines with vivid imagery and emotional depth, effortlessly immersing readers in the gothic landscape of Nyaxia. I was swept away by the richly developed world—a tapestry of political intrigue, mysticism, and vibrant characters. The pacing, while engaging, did present some slow moments where I had to gather my bearings amidst the intricate lore. However, I can appreciate the deliberate build-up; it enriched my understanding of the world and its complexities.
One of my favorite moments was when Oraya reflects on her upbringing and the weight of her father’s expectations. It struck a profound chord with me and made her journey resonate even more. The depiction of the relationships—especially the fraught connection between Oraya and her adoptive father, Vincent—was crafted with nuance that made their interactions compelling.
Memorable Highlights
When Oraya enters the Kejari, the atmosphere thickens with tension and excitement. The contests were not only a test of skill but a challenge of morality, pushing characters to their limits. Each twist felt fresh, and I couldn’t help but root for Oraya even more fiercely as she fought to carve her destiny against impossible odds.
Conclusion
The Serpent and the Wings of Night is a thrilling start to the Crowns of Nyaxia series that melds action, romance, and emotional growth. Fans of darker fantasy realms, emotionally layered characters, and an edge-of-your-seat plot will find a delightful read in this book. I, for one, am eagerly counting down the days until I can continue Oraya’s journey in the sequel. Broadbent has left me enchanted and craving more, reminding me of why I adore escapism through literature. If you thrive on stories rich with tension, moral complexity, and some swoon-worthy romance, don’t miss this one!
You can find The Serpent and the Wings of Night: Crowns of Nyaxia, Book 1 here >>