Fantasy readers are always searching for the next story that blends romance, danger, and world-shattering stakes. The Serpent and the Wings of Night by Carissa Broadbent has quickly risen as one of the most talked-about titles in the fantasy romance genre. This novel is more than just another enemies-to-lovers tale; it’s a brutal competition for survival, wrapped in lush worldbuilding and emotional storytelling.
In this article, we’ll explore the plot, characters, themes, and fan reception of The Serpent and the Wings of Night. Whether you’re curious about Carissa Broadbent’s books or deciding if this series is for you, consider this your ultimate guide.
Content
About the Author – Carissa Broadbent’s Fantasy Worlds
Carissa Broadbent has become a beloved voice in indie fantasy publishing. Known for her ability to balance high-stakes drama with deeply emotional character arcs, she has carved out a loyal readership. The Serpent and the Wings of Night is part of her larger Crowns of Nyaxia series, which expands across multiple books and novellas.
If you’ve enjoyed the works of authors like Sarah J. Maas or Holly Black, you’ll find Broadbent’s style familiar yet distinct. Her books combine the romance-forward storytelling of modern fantasy with darker, morally complex worlds that demand tough choices from their characters.
Plot Overview (Spoiler-Free)
At its core, The Serpent and the Wings of Night follows Oraya, a human adopted by a vampire king. In a world ruled by gods and vampire houses, humans are prey. Oraya’s only chance at survival — and true belonging — lies in proving herself in the Kejari, a deadly tournament that pits warriors against each other in a fight for power and divine favor.
Think of it as a vampire Hunger Games infused with gods, magic, and political intrigue. The trials test not just strength but wit, loyalty, and the ability to navigate alliances that could crumble at any moment. The result is a story that keeps readers hooked from beginning to end.
Major Themes and Motifs
Survival and Power in a Dangerous World
Survival is more than just a theme — it’s the beating heart of the novel. Every trial in the Kejari forces Oraya to confront her humanity in a world where vampires see her as weak. This relentless fight for survival raises questions about power, privilege, and the lengths one must go to secure freedom.
Enemies-to-Lovers Romance
At the center of the trials is Raihn, a rival vampire whose alliance with Oraya blurs the line between friend and enemy. Their relationship delivers on the enemies-to-lovers romance trope, offering moments of tension, trust, and vulnerability. Fans of fantasy romance will find this pairing both swoon-worthy and emotionally rich.
Darkness, Trust, and Betrayal
The novel thrives on moments of uncertainty. Oraya must constantly question who she can trust — Raihn, her father, or even herself. The political backdrop of warring vampire houses emphasizes betrayal as a constant threat, keeping readers turning the pages.
Main Characters in The Serpent and the Wings of Night
Oraya – The Human Among Vampires
Oraya is one of the most compelling heroines in recent fantasy. Raised by Vincent, a powerful vampire king, she is both vulnerable and fiercely determined. Her humanity is both her weakness and her strength, making her a refreshing protagonist in a vampire-dominated world.
Raihn – The Enigmatic Vampire
Raihn is the perfect foil for Oraya. Charismatic yet dangerous, he challenges her beliefs while becoming an unexpected ally. Their dynamic is a highlight of the story, fueling both the romance and the emotional stakes of the trials.
Supporting Cast and Factions
From rival competitors to manipulative vampire houses, the supporting characters shape every choice Oraya makes. Each faction in the Kejari brings its own agenda, echoing the political depth found in epic fantasy.
Worldbuilding and Setting
The universe of Nyaxia is as dark as it is beautiful. The vampire houses worship different aspects of their goddess, Nyaxia, each embodying unique strengths and brutal traditions. This layered worldbuilding gives the novel a richness often compared to other vampire series, but it stands apart with its divine politics and deadly trials.
Reader Reception and Reviews
Since its release, The Serpent and the Wings of Night has earned glowing reviews from fans and critics alike. Readers praise its emotional depth, gripping action, and the way it delivers on popular tropes without feeling predictable.
One Goodreads reviewer wrote:
“This book had me hooked from the first page. The romance, the trials, the politics — everything felt perfectly balanced. Oraya is the heroine I’ve been waiting for.”
Series Order and What’s Next
The Serpent and the Wings of Night is the first book in the Crowns of Nyaxia series. To get the full experience, readers should follow this order:
The Serpent and the Wings of Night
The Ashes and the Star-Cursed King (sequel)
Related novellas that expand the Nyaxia universe
Fans are also eagerly awaiting news of future installments and adaptations.
Who Should Read This Book?
If you’re a fan of fantasy romance, enemies-to-lovers tension, or survival-based plots, The Serpent and the Wings of Night belongs on your TBR. Readers who loved From Blood and Ash or Throne of Glass will especially appreciate the blend of romance and grit.
Real-Life Case Study – TikTok’s #BookTok Effect
A major reason The Serpent and the Wings of Night exploded in popularity is thanks to BookTok, TikTok’s thriving book community. Readers shared tearful reactions, fan art, and passionate reviews, propelling Carissa Broadbent’s novel into bestseller lists.
For example, in early 2023, influencers like @bookishlyashley and @fantasyromancequeen highlighted Oraya and Raihn’s dynamic in their videos, which went viral with hundreds of thousands of views. The ripple effect boosted not only this book’s sales but also interest in the entire Crowns of Nyaxia series.
This case study shows how word-of-mouth marketing, amplified by social media, can turn indie fantasy titles into global sensations.
Conclusion
The Serpent and the Wings of Night isn’t just another fantasy romance — it’s a story of survival, love, and identity wrapped in a darkly enchanting world. With unforgettable characters, high-stakes trials, and themes that resonate long after the final page, it’s no surprise this novel has captured the hearts of so many readers.
If you’re ready for a tale where humanity fights to thrive in a world of monsters, then this book deserves a place on your shelf.
Fans of dark fantasy worlds like The Serpent and the Wings of Night may also enjoy reading our detailed guide on Ruin and Rising.
FAQs
Is The Serpent and the Wings of Night part of a series?
Yes, it’s the first book in the Crowns of Nyaxia series, followed by The Ashes and the Star-Cursed King.
What genre is The Serpent and the Wings of Night?
It blends dark fantasy, romance, and survival tropes, appealing to fans of enemies-to-lovers stories.
Who are the main characters in The Serpent and the Wings of Night?
The story centers on Oraya, a human raised by vampires, and Raihn, a rival who becomes her unexpected ally.
Does The Serpent and the Wings of Night have a sequel?
Yes, the direct sequel is The Ashes and the Star-Cursed King, expanding the world of Nyaxia further.
What makes The Serpent and the Wings of Night unique?
Its blend of deadly trials, vampire politics, and heartfelt romance makes it stand out in modern fantasy.
