The Serpent and the Wings of Night
Ratings349
Average rating4.1
Good balance between the plot and the relationship. I liked the characters and enjoyed seeing them and their relationship develop and the tournament was an interesting backdrop. I also really liked Mische, she's so sweet and fun. I thought the relationship between Oraya and her father was also very interesting, with their conflicting sides/feelings.
Diving into “The Serpent and the Wings of Night” by Clarissa Broadbent was quite the whirlwind adventure for me. Right off the bat, I was drawn to the characters—the female lead was refreshingly non-irritating, and Raihn, our male protagonist, was downright likable. Their journey through the plot kept me hooked with its fast pace and intriguing twists. It's an easy read, perfect for those days when you just want to escape into a book without too much effort. However, I did find myself craving a bit more depth in the world-building department. The story introduces a flurry of houses and gods, but it felt like they were just thrown at me without much explanation, leaving me a bit lost despite the glossary's attempt to clarify things. On a brighter note, the spicy scenes? Totally well-executed. If you're looking for a quick, entertaining fantasy read, this is it—but if you're a stickler for richly crafted worlds and top-notch writing, you might find it lacking. Still, I'd say it's a solid 4/5 for its enjoyable storyline and characters.
5 stars
I am very conflicted. I want to throw Raihin into hellfire, but then I also want him and Oraya to have hot makeup sex.. and her to stab a knife in his back.
No Nonsense Review:
- I really liked it.
- I liked the sequel and 2 novellas, too.
- The story is unique-ish for a tournament / game theme and it's paced well.
- The main female character is interesting, adaptive, and doesn't make me want to rip my hair out.
- The main male character is OK.
- Not a ton of spice, but what's there is written very well.
I meannnnnnnnn
La verdad no soy mucho de hacer reseñas pero me dieron ganas. Termine el libro y no se si me gustó o no.
Cuando comencé a leerlo me emocioné por que me gustó como estaba narrando la protagonista el mundo en el que vivía, creo que tiene una muy buena historia, muy interesante la verdad, me dio vibras a los juegos del hambre y también the maze runner.
Pero aquí empieza lo no tan bueno, todo bien hasta como la mitad, me hubiera gustado mucho más si no se hubieran hecho más cercano los protagonistas tan rápido, yo esperaba un slow burn, pero no me quejo.
Siento que tenían mucho potencial dadas las circunstancias para realmente ser enemies
I wanted to at minimum, enjoy this book (in a junk food sort of manner). I've been craving a good vampire novel for a while, but this is not it.
1. The writing itself wasn't bad fundamentally, but suffered from a lot of tell instead of show. We're told over and over again how powerful Vincent was, yet we don't see it ever (quite literally - all his actions happen off screen and are only briefly mentioned).
2. I'm terribly tired of the sassy, bitchy heroines that plague this genre nowadays. Nothing wrong with a headstrong heroine, but I feel like there's a severe lack of empathy for others that have been a common theme amongst all these heroines and Oraya is not an exception. Her driving motivation for going back to her hometown doesn't even make sense. It's demonstrated quite well that her whole town was razed. In what world does it even make sense for someone related to her to still be alive?
3. Plot-driven book with so many plot holes I don't even know where to begin. Lack of explanation of magic, lack of explanation for the whole trial (frenzied killing only happened the first night - then?). Oraya is a human living in a vampire-centric world, yet she always gets away because she's more powerful. When she's not, her father conveniently intervenes to save her. No sense of real danger or urgency whatsoever.
4. Can we please stop using the “fuck” an exorbitant amount of times when the setting is clearly not modern? Reading curse words every few sentence makes the whole story feel childish.
5. The least convincing romance I've ever read. Raihn and Oraya literally just exist in the same place, and there is little development between them between hating to suddenly loving each other.
I enjoyed this book! Each part had me wanting more. The world building was really good as well as the plot. The spicy scenes were
4.5 stars! There were a few things too cringe for me to give it 5 stars but I enjoyed it a lot! Ready for the next book!
“Do you want to change this world, little serpent? Then climb your cage until you are so high no one can catch you. Break its bars and make them your weapons. Nothing is sharper. I know because I did it.”
A New Favorite
“The Serpent and the Wings of Night” by Carissa Broadbent invites readers into a world that seamlessly blends elements reminiscent of “The Hunger Games” and the supernatural intrigue of “Underworld.” Eagerly anticipating the release, I initially sought the book on Netgalley but, undeterred by the unavailability, I happily purchased and delved into its pages.
Set in a universe teeming with diverse vampire factions, the narrative centers around the Kejari, a once-in-a-century competition where participants engage in a fierce battle for the favor of the goddess of death. For Oraya, the adopted daughter of the Nightborn vampire King Vincent, the Kejari represents a chance to prove herself and secure a better life. Raised amid predators, Oraya, though human, emerges as a formidable warrior under the tutelage of her adoptive father. As the Kejari unfolds, it becomes a test of strategy, strength, and the alliances Oraya forms to navigate the perilous trials.
This being my first venture into Carissa Broadbent's work, the initial intrigue was palpable. The story swiftly captivated me with its depiction of Oraya's upbringing by Vincent, evolving into a tale of empowerment as she matures into a resilient woman. Oraya's character, evident from the first chapter, exudes a determined spirit, promising a protagonist who refuses to succumb without a fight.
The narrative wastes no time immersing readers in action, showcasing the skills Oraya must employ for survival. The “Hunger Games” comparisons prove valid, given the brutality, gore, and chaos that permeate each trial. Every moment is a life-or-death struggle, a fact not lost on Oraya, whose control and precision become vital for her survival. The introduction of Raihn, a powerful and enigmatic vampire, adds an intriguing dynamic to the story, sparking questions about their inevitable connection.
The backstory of Oraya's adoption by Vincent is seamlessly woven into the narrative, revealing her early awareness of the dangers surrounding her. Oraya emerges not as a vulnerable character, but as one with the means to protect herself, marked by strength and a guarded emotional stance cultivated through years of survival.
Each trial not only demands Oraya's physical prowess but unveils unexpected facets of herself and her relationships, particularly with Raihn. Surprising revelations, such as Oraya's latent magical abilities, add depth to her character, enhancing the narrative's complexity. Oraya's resilience amidst bloodshed and injuries reinforces her as a compelling protagonist.
As the story concludes, the unexpected ending leaves readers yearning for more. The promise of a second book adds to the anticipation, as the duet's conclusion remains shrouded in mystery. Overall, “The Serpent and the Wings of Night” delivers a riveting narrative filled with suspense, unexpected twists, and a protagonist whose journey captivates from beginning to end. For those seeking a thrilling and enchanting experience, I highly recommend diving into this captivating tale by clicking the link below.
World building was lacking. Didn't feel like characters were really driven toward their goals. Romance also seemed kinda instalovey and very shallow being driven by lust. A lot of repeated monologues and phrases, which made certain important moments feel diminished.
Made it to 50% and still felt lost and there was so little that happened. My list of questions just kept growing and didn't get many answers. Had to force myself to finish it to understand why everyone loved this so much.
Overall, was very intrigued by the concept but felt myself wanting more from the story and the characters.
(War of Lost Hearts was much better in my opinion!)
4 stars
I enjoyed this book, great world building, politics, class system, and character development. I loved how Oraya and Raihn's relationship developed, enemies to allies to lovers.
I was waiting for the ball to drop with her Oraya's adoptive father, it reminded me of the Underworld Movie universe Selene/Viktor dynamic.
I didn't see the ending coming. I liked it, I will read the next one. However, something was missing for me. I didn't like the characters much until 50% of the book.
4,25 stars
Such a wild, thrilling and sometime terrifying ride! I will be reading the sequel for sure!
“The Serpent and the Wings of Night” is a masterful blend of fantasy and deep emotional narrative that deserves nothing less than five stars. What truly sets this book apart is its exceptional portrayal of a father-daughter dynamic, intertwined with a brilliantly executed enemies-to-lovers trope. The father, a figure of wisdom and resilience, and his daughter, a symbol of hope and courage, navigate a world of complexity and magic with a bond that is both heartwarming and inspiring. Their relationship is the backbone of the story, providing a strong emotional anchor amidst the thrilling plot twists.
Additionally, the enemies-to-lovers aspect adds an exhilarating layer to the narrative. This trope is handled with finesse, evolving naturally and believably, making the reader invest deeply in the characters' journey. The tension and chemistry between these characters are palpable, adding a rich layer of intrigue and romance to the story.
Overall, “The Serpent and the Wings of Night” is a stunning achievement. It skillfully balances fantasy elements with relatable human emotions, creating a world that is both fantastical and deeply grounded in emotional truths. The father-daughter dynamic, combined with the captivating enemies-to-lovers storyline, makes this book a compelling and unforgettable read.
This is what happens when you doubt someone's love for you, you end up betrayed and in the end, confused. I'm still confused, and maybe I'm still interested, so I guess, I'll probably pick up the next one.
3.5 rounded up. The second half of this book is infinitely better than the first but man did they drag the book down
DNF at 30%
The FMC made me FURIOUS with hers idiocy.
All her life her named father - very powerful vampire - trained her for the trials. She was sparring him as equal. Going out at nights cockily killing vampires. Sounds like she is bold, trained, controlling herself. Yet she is just dumb. ALL her moves in the most valuable event in all her life, for which she prepared all her life - MADE NO F SENSE. She is constantly bleeding, putting herslef in danger out of impulsive unreasonable motives. And two - only author know for what reasons - allmighty vampires saving her and putting theirs trusts in her. I agreed with some of her deeds for some time. But saving a child ( cause she saw resemblence to her in it) in a to-death trials amongst vampires, being in disadvantage - it's not nobility, heroism or humanity, or whatever, it's just dumb thing to do. The FMC didn't worth Victor's efforts, and not worth any effort from Raihn.
Disappointed, didn't worth the hype.
Thank you to Destiny for suggesting we buddy read this one because I am obsessed and I had so much fun discussing this book with you while we were reading it.
This was my first book by this author and it definitely won't be my last. I've actually already read a novella that is part of this series and I plan on picking up the second book in this series on Monday but I would also like to read her other books as well. I've been seeing this going around lately and I had a little interest in it and then Destiny suggested we buddy read it and of course I said yes because I will buddy read anything with her. I'm so glad we read this because I so get the hype and I need more of Oraya and Raihn like now.
Oraya is the adopted human daughter of the Nightborn vampire king. This intrigued me from the get go and I wanted to know why an ordinary human was so special and well I got my answer. I have to say I never expected that to be the reason and I honestly still have some questions because some things were implied but we don't really know for sure so I am hoping we get a little more backstory in the next book.
Raihn is a vampire and he's an enemy to the Nightborn king. I loved getting to know Raihn with each chapter. Things were revealed about him that I didn't expect and I loved it although I'm not to happy with the way he handled things in the end so I'm really hoping he can redeem himself in the next book. I love Raihn and Oraya together and seeing them go from enemies to allies to lovers to... I just loved it.
I loved the tournament aspect of this book. The author definitely doesn't hold back on the gruesomeness so beware of that. I do wish we would have gotten a little more showing instead of telling with one of the side character but since it wasn't really about him I get why we didn't I just really liked this character.
This book to me on a rollercoaster ride of emotions. The last time I felt like this when reading a book was when I read November 9 by Colleen Hoover like 5+ years ago. These books have absolutely nothing in common aside from the way they made me feel. My emotions literally felt out of my control and I was very anxious reading it toward the end that I had to make myself put it down and save the last 2 chapters for the next day.
This book was perfection in my opinion and if you haven't read it yet I highly recommend you do. If you love fantasy romance with enemies to lovers and vampires and magic with some gore and steaminess thrown plus so much more give this book read.
2.5 - 3 ⭐️
My kingdom to never hear the words “there she is” ever again.
Interesting concept and writing style but the characters are beyond frustrating, specially Oraya. If listening to reason was a disease, she'd have it.
I'm finding I have a really low tolerance for insufferable bull headed MC's who are still barking at each other 200 pages in these days.
P.S. New enemy spotted: Audible exclusive audiobooks. Talk about a commitment. It's... not great
3.5 stars. There is a lot of background that could have been expanded upon, that wasn't making some of the plot confusing. I would have liked to know more about the bloodborn and what exactly the curse was. We are told Oraya is somehow half human, but with no explanation as to how or the background behind it. I would have rather a longer book which explained more of the history. Especially why Nyaxia and her husband were so forbidden. The book had a strong start but I wasn't tied to the ending. Probably will not continue the series.