jarvi77 's review for:

The Serpent and the Wings of Night by Carissa Broadbent

4.25

adventurous emotional funny inspiring mysterious medium-paced

Plot or Character Driven: A mix

Strong character development: Yes

Loveable characters: Yes

Diverse cast of characters: Yes

Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

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I absolutely devoured this book. From the first chapter I was hooked. The world building is sharp and layered, the atmosphere dark without being overwhelming, and the magic system works brilliantly within the story. The plot is fast paced but still gives space for the characters to grow. Oraya is one of the most compelling protagonists I’ve read in this genre. She is vulnerable and aware of her limits but she is also clever, resourceful and determined. Watching her navigate a world where she is always at a disadvantage kept me on edge the whole time.

The romance is slow burn and believable. It never overshadows the main storyline but instead deepens it. I cared about what happened between the characters because it felt earned rather than forced. The action scenes are tense and well written and the political undercurrents keep the stakes high throughout.

This is exactly the kind of book that makes me stay up far too late reading. It gave me everything I want in a fantasy romance: a dangerous setting, a heroine I could root for, twists that land, and a story that never let up.