Review:

This book is a riveting blend of revenge, betrayal and political intrigue with themes of violence, abuse, slavery and torture. A must-read for fans of fast-paced, high-stakes fantasy centered on survival and power struggles. The book has a strong foundation of a brutal “Battle Royale” premise, where the competitors must fight for their lives. In this arena, not only are your competitors out to eliminate you but the arena itself is designed to ruin you, mind, body and soul. The story also delves deeper into themes of deception, vengeance and personal trauma.

We follow Oraya, the adopted daughter of the vampire king. She grew up in a vicious world where every day is a battle for survival. The vampires around her look at humans as lesser individuals either for consumption or slavery. The novel excels in its portrayal of complex power dynamics, Oraya’s relationship with her father is tinged with manipulation and cold-affection. She convinces herself that his coldness and harsh actions are forms of protection, rationalising that as a king, he must maintain an air of detachment, as showing too much affection would be perceived as weakness by others. In this vicious world, showing one’s weakness means death. This emotional justification creates a complex dynamic between them, blurring the line between genuine care and strategic control.

Oraya is thrust into the Kejari, a brutal competition designed for vampires to prove their worth, with the promise of a single wish granted to the victor by the goddess Nyaxia herself. Oraya must learn who to trust in an environment steeped in lies and hidden motives. Will falling for her enemy be the right choice? If she wins, what will be her ultimate wish?

The battle sequences are fast-paced and violent but never gratuitous. Each brutality comes with a revelation, exposing vulnerabilities and defining alliances in the most unexpected ways. The story’s unpredictability keeps the readers on edge, adding to the suspense when deception and betrayal are skillfully deployed. While violence and abuse are integral to the narrative, they are handled with care and never glorified. They are used as a backdrop to the characters’ motivations and internal battles.

A great start to a new series. Full of danger at every turn, with a sprinkling of romance, political dynamic and character traumas. A wonderful foundation for what promises to be a thrilling saga. I cannot wait for book 2!

Famous Highlights:

“So no, no part of that was a lie, Oraya. Trust me, it would be simpler if it was.”

“Do you feel unsafe here, little serpent?”

“Good. You are not safe. Not in this castle. Not in this room. You are prey in a world of predators.”

Remarks:

The author is kind, she put a “Note”/”Warning” after the dedication page. Read it and heed her warning. Proceed with caution.

• Enemies to Lovers
• Fighter FMC
• Swoon-worthy MMC
• Survival
• High-stakes Brutal Arena
• Vampirism
• Discrimination
• Graphic Violence
• Abuse