In the ever-expanding universe of dark fantasy romance, few series have captured readers' imaginations quite like Carissa Broadbent's Crowns of Nyaxia. At the heart of this captivating world lies the entry point for countless fans: The Serpent and the Wings of Night. This first installment isn't just a book; it's a gateway to a richly imagined realm of vampires, gods, mortal tournaments, and forbidden love that has earned its status as a bestseller fantasy phenomenon.
A World of Blood, Gods, and Mortal Ambition
The Serpent and the Wings of Night introduces us to Oraya, a human orphan adopted by the Nightborn vampire king. In a world where humans are little more than prey, Oraya has been raised as a weapon, her survival dependent on her wits and combat skills. Her chance to claim power and security for herself comes in the form of the Kejari—a legendary tournament held by the goddess of death herself, Nyaxia. The prize? A single wish of unimaginable power. To win, Oraya must form an alliance with Raihn, a mysterious and dangerous vampire competitor. What begins as a tactical partnership soon spirals into a complex relationship that blurs the lines between enemy and ally, strategy and genuine connection.
The brilliance of Broadbent's world-building lies in its intricate balance of high-stakes political intrigue and deeply personal character journeys. The setting is a dark, gothic landscape where ancient magic and brutal survivalism coexist. For readers seeking a complete immersion into this universe, the Crowns of Nyaxia Series 3 Books Collection Set offers the perfect package, bundling the explosive beginning with its thrilling sequels.
Why This Dark Fantasy Romance Stands Out
The romantasy genre is crowded, but The Serpent and the Wings of Night distinguishes itself through its masterful execution of the enemies-to-lovers trope. The relationship between Oraya and Raihn is not a simple flip of a switch. It is earned through shared trauma, whispered secrets in the dark, and the terrifying vulnerability of relying on someone you're supposed to hate. Their chemistry is electric, fraught with tension that is as much about strategic mistrust as it is about undeniable attraction.
Beyond the romance, the novel is a masterclass in pacing and suspense. The Kejari tournament provides a relentless, deadly structure that forces characters into impossible choices. Each trial is more horrifying and inventive than the last, testing not just physical prowess but moral fortitude. This makes it a quintessential dark fantasy novel, unafraid to explore themes of power, sacrifice, and what it means to retain one's humanity in an inhuman world. For a deeper analysis of these themes, check out our blog post, The Serpent and the Wings of Night: Unpacking Carissa Broadbent's Dark Fantasy.
The Crowns of Nyaxia Universe Expands
Starting with The Serpent and the Wings of Night opens the door to a much larger saga. The story continues directly in The Ashes and the Star-Cursed King, which picks up the pieces of the first book's devastating climax and takes the political and romantic stakes to even greater heights. Many fans choose to dive in with the Crowns of Nyaxia Series 2 Books Set to experience Oraya and Raihn's complete duology arc without pause.
The world further expands with The Songbird and the Heart of Stone, which introduces new protagonists while deepening the lore of Nyaxia. Don't overlook the essential Six Scorched Roses, a standalone novella that offers a beautiful, heartbreaking story within the same universe and is a must-read for series completists. The journey continues with the upcoming The Fallen and the Kiss of Dusk, promising more adventures in this beloved fantasy romance world.
Who Should Read The Serpent and the Wings of Night?
This book is perfect for readers who crave:
• Gripping, Tournament-Style Plots: Fans of The Hunger Games or Red Rising will love the deadly, strategic games of the Kejari.
• Complex Vampire Lore: If you enjoy vampire romance that goes beyond tropes to build a unique and compelling mythology, this delivers.
• Slow-Burn, High-Stakes Romance: The relationship development is central, painful, and profoundly satisfying.
• Beautiful, Atmospheric Writing: Broadbent's prose is both visceral and lyrical, painting a world that feels hauntingly real.
For international readers, there's even a German edition available, making this bestseller accessible to a wider audience.
In conclusion, The Serpent and the Wings of Night is more than just a popular book series opener. It is a cornerstone of modern dark fantasy romance. It establishes Carissa Broadbent as a leading voice in the genre and provides a utterly addictive reading experience. Whether you start with the single book or commit to the full Crowns of Nyaxia series via a collection set, you're embarking on a journey filled with blood, passion, and night wings that will linger long after the final page. Ready to take the plunge? Your guide to the entire series awaits in our Ultimate Guide to the Crowns of Nyaxia Series.