A review by chapters_and_pages
The Serpent and the Wings of Night by Carissa Broadbent

adventurous challenging dark emotional tense 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

5.0

I’d never heard of this book before but when I came across it while browsing Amazon, as you do, I was very intrigued. 

Oraya is the human daughter of the Nightborn vampire king. Growing up as a human surrounded by vampires, she has always felt like the prey. Entering the Kejari, a legendary tournament hosted by the goddess of death, is her only chance to become more. But with her opponents being some of the most vicious vampires, winning is easier said than done. Forced to make an alliance with a ruthless and mysterious rival, Raihn is her biggest competition, but she can’t help the drawn she feels towards him. 

Firstly, I loved Oraya! We love a badass who is strong, fierce and independent, who doesn’t let her weaknesses define her - I mean, she can hold her own against vampires, for crying out loud. I love Raihn as well, he was kind of adorable, and his relationship with Mische was really cute. 

Oraya and Raihn may be one of my favourite couples, I loved the mix of enemies to lovers and grumpy/sunshine. Their chemistry and partnership gave me similar vibes to a Sarah J. Maas book in the best way possible! I did unfortunately read a spoiler about the ending (iykyk), so that wasn’t a surprise for me, but I do think it would’ve be had I not accident read the spoiler. 

I also really liked the relationship between Oraya and Vincent. I’m currently wondering if how everything ended with Vincent isn’t all it seems and that there may be a twist in book 2, because he truly seemed to love and care for Oraya as a daughter. 

In terms of the plot and storytelling, the world was interesting but not overly complicated, which is always a bonus for me. The plot was intense and action packed, and at no point did it drag. 

Overall, this book is probably one of my favourites that I’ve read this year and can’t wait to read the next one!
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