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 explosive entry point: The Serpent and the Wings of Night. This novel isn't just a book; it's a gateway into a richly crafted realm of vampire courts, deadly tournaments, and a romance forged in blood and betrayal. For fans seeking their next dark fantasy romance obsession, this series delivers on every front.
A World Built on Blood and Bargains
The Serpent and the Wings of Night introduces us to Oraya, a human girl adopted and raised by the Nightborn vampire king, Vincent. In a world where humans are prey, her survival is a daily battle, and her only chance at true power lies in the Kejari: a legendary tournament held by the goddess of death herself. The prize? A single wish. To compete, she must form an alliance with Raihn, her most dangerous rival. What follows is a masterclass in the enemies to lovers trope, set against a backdrop of political intrigue and visceral action.
Broadbent's world-building is immersive and unflinching. The Crowns of Nyaxia series doesn't shy away from the brutal realities of its vampire-centric society, making the moments of connection and vulnerability between characters all the more potent. The first book sets a high bar for fantasy romance, blending heart-pounding plot twists with a slow-burn romance that feels earned and devastating.
Beyond the First Book: The Expanding Saga
Thankfully, the journey doesn't end with The Serpent and the Wings of Night. The story continues directly in the sequel, The Ashes and the Star-Cursed King, which picks up the pieces of the explosive cliffhanger and delves deeper into the consequences of Oraya and Raihn's choices. For readers who devour series, getting the Crowns of Nyaxia Series 2 Books Set is the perfect way to experience the core duology without pause.
The world continues to grow with the third novel, The Songbird and the Heart of Stone, which expands the focus to new characters within the same universe. Additionally, the poignant Six Scorched Roses offers a beautiful, standalone novella that enhances the lore. For the ultimate collection, the Crowns of Nyaxia Series 3 Books Set provides the complete experience.
Why This Series Stands Out in the Romantasy Genre
The term "romantasy" is everywhere now, but the Crowns of Nyaxia series exemplifies its best qualities. It balances a plot-driven narrative with a deeply emotional core. The romance is central but not the only focus; the political machinations of the vampire houses, the exploration of power and identity, and the sheer survival horror elements are given equal weight. This makes it a compelling read not just for romance fans, but for any lover of dark fantasy.
Carissa Broadbent has been praised for her complex characters. Oraya is a fierce, morally grey heroine whose vulnerability makes her strength believable. Raihn is the perfect foil—charismatic, dangerous, and layered. Their dynamic is the engine of the first two books, and it's a testament to Broadbent's skill that readers become so invested in their fraught relationship. For a deeper analysis of these characters and the world, check out our detailed analysis blog post.
Finding Your Edition and Starting the Journey
With the series' global popularity, there are multiple ways to begin. The core first book, The Serpent and the Wings of Night: Crowns of Nyaxia, Book 1, is available widely. For German readers, there's even a dedicated German edition. Many fans prefer to dive in with a complete set, such as the 3 Books Collection Set that includes the novella.
Whether you're a seasoned vampire romance enthusiast or new to the genre, The Serpent and the Wings of Night offers a thrilling and emotionally resonant entry point. Its blend of high-stakes fantasy and intense romance has rightfully earned it bestseller status and a devoted fanbase. The story of Oraya and Raihn is just the beginning of a much larger, captivating saga waiting to be explored. Ready to take the plunge? Your guide to the entire series awaits in our ultimate series guide.