Introduction
For fans of dark fantasy romance with brutal competition, deadly trials, and slow-burn enemies-to-lovers chemistry, The Serpent and the Wings of Night by Carissa Broadbent delivers everything. It’s a vampire fantasy packed with action, politics, and heart-wrenching romance—all set in a blood-soaked world.
Available now on Kindle Unlimited, this novel is perfect for readers craving a high-stakes, emotionally charged fantasy romance.
👉 Grab your copy on Amazon Kindle here.
Plot Summary
Oraya, the adopted human daughter of the vampire king, knows she’s prey in a world ruled by predators. Her only chance at survival—and power—lies in winning the Kejari, a legendary tournament held by the goddess of death herself.
The trials are brutal, designed to kill. And complicating things further is Raihn—a charming, dangerous vampire rival with secrets of his own. As alliances shift and enemies circle, Oraya is forced to decide: win the Kejari, survive, and betray her heart—or lose everything.
Character Dynamics
Oraya is a fierce, determined heroine—human in a vampire world, hardened by survival yet vulnerable in her longing for belonging. Her growth from isolated survivor to a woman willing to risk her heart is beautifully done.
Raihn, the enemy-turned-ally, is the perfect blend of ruthless and protective. Their slow-burn chemistry, built on shared danger and grudging respect, creates a romance that feels earned and unforgettable.
Secondary characters, gods, and rival vampires add layers of complexity and political intrigue, pulling readers deeper into the dark, violent world of Nyaxia.
Writing Style and Themes
Carissa Broadbent’s prose is lyrical, atmospheric, and emotionally resonant. She balances violent action with intimate moments, crafting a story that’s both epic and deeply personal.
Key themes include:
- Power, survival, and what we’re willing to sacrifice
- Found family, betrayal, and loyalty
- Enemies-to-lovers tension with emotional depth
- Free will versus destiny
Broadbent’s world-building is rich, dark, and hauntingly beautiful, making every scene immersive.
Memorable Moments
Standout scenes include:
- Oraya’s first bloody trial in the Kejari
- Emotional conversations between Oraya and Raihn that reveal their deepest fears
- Political betrayals that hit hard
- The final trial, where love and survival collide in devastating fashion
Each moment raises the stakes, making readers fear—and feel—for every character.
Reader Reactions
Fans are obsessed with The Serpent and the Wings of Night, praising its brutal world, complex characters, and heartbreaking romance. Many readers describe it as their favorite vampire fantasy of the year.
Common reactions:
- “Absolutely devoured this. The slow-burn is perfect.”
- “Oraya is the best fantasy heroine I’ve read in years.”
- “Heartbreakingly good. I need book two now.”
Recommended For
Perfect for:
- Fans of vampire fantasy romance with deadly games
- Readers who love brutal trials, political intrigue, and slow-burn love stories
- Fantasy lovers craving emotional depth and high-stakes action
- Kindle Unlimited subscribers searching for their next dark, addictive binge read
If you loved The Bridge Kingdom or From Blood and Ash, The Serpent and the Wings of Night is a must-read.
Similar Reads You Might Enjoy
- The Bridge Kingdom by Danielle L. Jensen
- From Blood and Ash by Jennifer L. Armentrout
- A Soul to Keep by Opal Reyne
- King of Battle and Blood by Scarlett St. Clair
World-Building & Political Intrigue
Nyaxia’s world is dark, bloody, and utterly captivating. The political system of vampire houses, gods, and brutal traditions makes every decision feel loaded with consequence.
The Kejari trials are especially well-crafted—each one testing not just strength, but loyalty, morality, and heart.
Romance and Emotional Depth
The romance between Oraya and Raihn is slow-burn perfection. What starts as rivalry and necessity evolves into deep connection and impossible choices.
Their dynamic is intense, messy, and emotional—exactly what dark fantasy romance readers crave.
Pacing and Story Structure
Broadbent’s pacing is flawless. Action scenes are heart-pounding, while quiet moments hit just as hard emotionally. Dual layers of personal and political stakes keep the tension high from start to finish.
The ending is both devastating and satisfying—leaving readers desperate for more.
Final Verdict
The Serpent and the Wings of Night is a masterclass in dark fantasy romance—violent, tender, heartbreaking, and unforgettable. Carissa Broadbent delivers a heroine you’ll root for, a love story you’ll ache over, and a world you won’t want to leave.
👉 Read it now on Kindle Unlimited and prepare to be obsessed.
