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The Valley of Scales Saga #1
Daughter of Serpents
Her whole life they called her a monster. Now she’s the only one that can save them all.
Marissa is used to being alone. She is a half-Naga, living on the streets in a world where colonizing humans are at odds with the native reptilian beastfolk. She spends her time in an abandoned storefront, hidden from society, until she meets Arthur, the owner of a local menagerie. She finds herself drawn to the charming herpetologist, and when her secret is revealed, he quickly enlists her help.
An outcast Naga has been terrorizing the villagers on the outskirts of the kingdom, and Arthur needs to find out why. But as the pair travel across the valley, they realize the Naga’s sudden appearance is part of something far more sinister. Tensions rise, an army forms, and the strange Naga searches for a mysterious treasure. As the secrets of the past begin to unravel, Marissa realizes she's the only one that can save the Valley of Scales - before it plunges into chaos.
Marissa is used to being alone. She is a half-Naga, living on the streets in a world where colonizing humans are at odds with the native reptilian beastfolk. She spends her time in an abandoned storefront, hidden from society, until she meets Arthur, the owner of a local menagerie. She finds herself drawn to the charming herpetologist, and when her secret is revealed, he quickly enlists her help.
An outcast Naga has been terrorizing the villagers on the outskirts of the kingdom, and Arthur needs to find out why. But as the pair travel across the valley, they realize the Naga’s sudden appearance is part of something far more sinister. Tensions rise, an army forms, and the strange Naga searches for a mysterious treasure. As the secrets of the past begin to unravel, Marissa realizes she's the only one that can save the Valley of Scales - before it plunges into chaos.
330 pages, Hardcover
Published August 28, 2023
About the author
Sydney Wilder
5 books85 followersSydney Wilder has been a writer ever since she was a child, and fell in love with reptiles in her early 20s. Her collection includes four snakes and a bearded dragon, which keep her company in her cozy home office as she writes fantasy novels inspired by them.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
September 1, 2023
The Daughter of Serpents by Sydney Wilder
I had such a great time reading this book! As I have been in a world of Fae books recently this gave a fun little escape to hang with the reptilian side of the Fantasy world.
This story follows the journey of Marissa, a human/Naga (snake) hybrid who lives in hiding amongst humans with no money or home to her name… until she meets a certain fellow who doesn’t see her, 5’2” 18-year-old with scales and other snake like features, the same way the majority of the kingdom would.
Sydney does a wonderful job of winding the stories of multiple points-of-view as we follow Arthur (that certain fellow I mentioned 😉) a kind, curious herpetologist, and Marissa on their adventure to learn more about an outcast Naga on the outskirts of town.
The story consistently kept my interest, and answered every question I had when trying to get a good image of the characters in my head (its not often I see a human/Naga hybrid so it definitely took me a moment, but for the others there is a very helpful “about the reptiles” section in the back of the book with descriptions and what they are based off of which I LOVED).
I quickly fell in love with the various side characters we met, my new favorite 3 headed pup, and the most adorable little carpet python. I am excited to see others get to enjoy this book once it releases in August and the second in the series comes out next year!!
» Reptiles! 🐊🐍🐢🦎
» Slow Burn Romance with a hint of spice 💞
» Friends to Lovers ❤️
» Forbidden Romance🚫
» Adorable snake friend 🐍
» Secret Identity 🤫
I had such a great time reading this book! As I have been in a world of Fae books recently this gave a fun little escape to hang with the reptilian side of the Fantasy world.
This story follows the journey of Marissa, a human/Naga (snake) hybrid who lives in hiding amongst humans with no money or home to her name… until she meets a certain fellow who doesn’t see her, 5’2” 18-year-old with scales and other snake like features, the same way the majority of the kingdom would.
Sydney does a wonderful job of winding the stories of multiple points-of-view as we follow Arthur (that certain fellow I mentioned 😉) a kind, curious herpetologist, and Marissa on their adventure to learn more about an outcast Naga on the outskirts of town.
The story consistently kept my interest, and answered every question I had when trying to get a good image of the characters in my head (its not often I see a human/Naga hybrid so it definitely took me a moment, but for the others there is a very helpful “about the reptiles” section in the back of the book with descriptions and what they are based off of which I LOVED).
I quickly fell in love with the various side characters we met, my new favorite 3 headed pup, and the most adorable little carpet python. I am excited to see others get to enjoy this book once it releases in August and the second in the series comes out next year!!
» Reptiles! 🐊🐍🐢🦎
» Slow Burn Romance with a hint of spice 💞
» Friends to Lovers ❤️
» Forbidden Romance🚫
» Adorable snake friend 🐍
» Secret Identity 🤫
April 24, 2024
This was a quick read for me and I’m so anxious to know what happens next! I felt like this story was really unique and super adventurous! I enjoyed all of the characters and can’t wait to see more of them.
June 26, 2023
This was such a unique premise, I wondered if I was I going to be able to get into it easily. After two chapters I was hooked and finished it within a weekend.
The unique characters and storyline held me, along with several twists during the novel. It was a fast read, incredibly engaging and had vivid descriptions of a fascinating fantasy world that includes reptiles as intelligent species.
Loved the theme of Marissa being an outsider in both worlds who struggles with loyalties and emotions for both species. I was actually disappointed when I got to the epilogue. I need more!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The unique characters and storyline held me, along with several twists during the novel. It was a fast read, incredibly engaging and had vivid descriptions of a fascinating fantasy world that includes reptiles as intelligent species.
Loved the theme of Marissa being an outsider in both worlds who struggles with loyalties and emotions for both species. I was actually disappointed when I got to the epilogue. I need more!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 14, 2024
Daughter of Serpents
Rating: 🌟⭐️🌟
Clean read with mild language
First off, I think the idea of this book is super interesting and entirely original. Second, I can see there’s a lot of potential in this realm. However, the end result of book one fell a bit short for me. The FMC is incredibly young and naive, which to some extent makes sense but she doesn’t exactly act her age in a lot of instances. Her emotional maturity didn’t exactly sink with her actual age. Also her inherent belief that the Reptilians are the victims feels more than naive, more like an ostrich with their head in the sand. I really enjoyed the character Arthur but his endless money that no one can tell he carries and lame excuses to its presence didn’t sit well with me. It seemed a matter of convenience for the writing. I also didn’t think he and the FMC had any chemistry, but I’m hoping that improves
Overall, this read is definitely worth a try, if for no other reason than the originality of the Reptilians. I hope there’s a lot of character growth in the next book and some things are fleshed out better. I still have a lot of confidence this series will end up being great.
Rating: 🌟⭐️🌟
Clean read with mild language
First off, I think the idea of this book is super interesting and entirely original. Second, I can see there’s a lot of potential in this realm. However, the end result of book one fell a bit short for me. The FMC is incredibly young and naive, which to some extent makes sense but she doesn’t exactly act her age in a lot of instances. Her emotional maturity didn’t exactly sink with her actual age. Also her inherent belief that the Reptilians are the victims feels more than naive, more like an ostrich with their head in the sand. I really enjoyed the character Arthur but his endless money that no one can tell he carries and lame excuses to its presence didn’t sit well with me. It seemed a matter of convenience for the writing. I also didn’t think he and the FMC had any chemistry, but I’m hoping that improves
Overall, this read is definitely worth a try, if for no other reason than the originality of the Reptilians. I hope there’s a lot of character growth in the next book and some things are fleshed out better. I still have a lot of confidence this series will end up being great.
August 1, 2023
Daughter of Serpents, written by Sydney Wilder, is a fantastic fantasy story that shows the true hatred people have towards reptilians, as well as the immense love others have.
There are humans and there are humanoid reptiles. Technically the reptilians were here first, but the humans pushed them out and have shown nothing but ire towards them for the past 600 years. Somewhere along the way however, a human and a Naga (a more snake-like reptilian) had a baby, and now Marissa is caught between two worlds being half-human and half-Naga.
Marissa thankfully discovers human allies along the way who find her existence amazing and cherish her friendship.
Even if you're not a fan of snakes, this is a great read (many of the characters don't like snakes). As I read I could see a great similarity to reality and how some groups of people are looked down on and hated for who they are.
And, if you like snakes already, this story may make you want to get one. Believe me: I already asked my husband for one. Fun fact, the author herself has four snakes!
Daughter of Serpents is the first of a series and a definite must-read!
There are humans and there are humanoid reptiles. Technically the reptilians were here first, but the humans pushed them out and have shown nothing but ire towards them for the past 600 years. Somewhere along the way however, a human and a Naga (a more snake-like reptilian) had a baby, and now Marissa is caught between two worlds being half-human and half-Naga.
Marissa thankfully discovers human allies along the way who find her existence amazing and cherish her friendship.
Even if you're not a fan of snakes, this is a great read (many of the characters don't like snakes). As I read I could see a great similarity to reality and how some groups of people are looked down on and hated for who they are.
And, if you like snakes already, this story may make you want to get one. Believe me: I already asked my husband for one. Fun fact, the author herself has four snakes!
Daughter of Serpents is the first of a series and a definite must-read!
June 25, 2024
I do not like snakes. They're one of my top fears. But I spotted this book in a stuff-your-Kindle promotion and I decided I'd give this half-naga Marissa's story a try. To my surprise, I really liked the story, characters, and setting. The book pulled me in, making me sympathize with the reptilian characters, the reptile-loving humans, and even the pet snakes. I hadn't originally planned to read the second book, but now I really want to know what happens next!
February 24, 2025
Picked up this book because I saw the author is a local from Central Florida which is where I am from. The world the author built is so fascinating and extremely creative. She took species from our homeland and turned them into wickedly wondrous characters. The story is very interesting and will keep you curious throughout the book. Some plot twists and is a YA read. Ends on a cliffhanger. (Already have the next book lined up)
January 15, 2024
In a world where humans and reptilians coexist, Marissa, a half-Naga orphan girl, comes of age and must find a way to survive as the uneasy peace between human- and snake-kind rapidly unravels.
Fans of snakes, mysterious orphans, and in-depth worldbuilding, rejoice! Daughter of Serpents is the book for you. Even those who are not "snake people," as it were, will be drawn in by the fascinating reptile details. The reptilian society is so richly described that it is as if you are reading a real history about a real place. It's not often that you find fantasy world-building as well-designed as it is in Daughter of Serpents.
Atop the foundation of a lush, detailed world, Daughter of Serpents is an engaging fantasy adventure that combines coming of age, world-shaking conflict, palace intrigue, and friendship into a plot that keeps the pages turning. This book is perfect for readers of YA fantasy who enjoy underdog heroes, wholly believable fantasy worlds, and snakes- and if you don't already like snakes, you'll probably like them better by the time you finish this book.
5 snakes... I mean stars. :)
Fans of snakes, mysterious orphans, and in-depth worldbuilding, rejoice! Daughter of Serpents is the book for you. Even those who are not "snake people," as it were, will be drawn in by the fascinating reptile details. The reptilian society is so richly described that it is as if you are reading a real history about a real place. It's not often that you find fantasy world-building as well-designed as it is in Daughter of Serpents.
Atop the foundation of a lush, detailed world, Daughter of Serpents is an engaging fantasy adventure that combines coming of age, world-shaking conflict, palace intrigue, and friendship into a plot that keeps the pages turning. This book is perfect for readers of YA fantasy who enjoy underdog heroes, wholly believable fantasy worlds, and snakes- and if you don't already like snakes, you'll probably like them better by the time you finish this book.
5 snakes... I mean stars. :)
August 15, 2024
This was actually really good!
The whole reptilians takes me some time to get used to because I’ve never read a book with large….snakes 💀
It’s weird but a good weird
On to book two!
The whole reptilians takes me some time to get used to because I’ve never read a book with large….snakes 💀
It’s weird but a good weird
On to book two!
September 21, 2025
This is my first time reading a book by this author and I really enjoyed it. It was an enchanting mix of danger, heart, and a slow-burn romance. I loved watching Marissa and Arthur’s unlikely connection unfold against a backdrop of rising tensions and reptilian magic. With morally grey choices, a hint of found family, and creatures that leap off the page, this story hooked me from the start and left me eager for the next book in the Valley of Scales Saga.
February 15, 2024
The Daughter of Serpents is an excellent book that kept me on edge. From friends to maybe more Marissa, the lead character, takes you on an exciting and mysteries adventure trying to unfold who she may be. Throughout the entire book she starts to unravel what the Naga may be after and why they are terrorizing small villages. She must find out who she can rely on in the midst and what side she will play. Great ending that will leave you wondering what is next!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 28, 2023
Marissa is a half Naga raised in an orphanage by a woman who had made a promise to her husband that she would never turn away a child. But it has always been quite clear that she would have preferred not to have had to raise a reptilian child. Marissa has always had to hide who she was, and at 18 was forced to leave the orphanage To make her own way in a society of humans who would likely kill her on sight if they knew what she was.
Most humans consider reptilians as mindless beasts because they do not speak & cannot communicate with the humans. But the truth is that the two are more alike than anyone realizes. And it is looking like it won't be long before the humans and reptilians will soon be at war. And only Marissa and a reptile-loving distant royal, Arthur, seem to be interested in preventing it.
I read a received a review copy of this book and found it very interesting. The various varieties of reptilians are based on actual reptiles. And the behaviors of people when confronted by snakes in the real world is quite accurate to that of people confronted by the reptilians in this book. The story hooked me from page one, and I will definitely be looking forward to reading book 2 in this series when it becomes available.
Most humans consider reptilians as mindless beasts because they do not speak & cannot communicate with the humans. But the truth is that the two are more alike than anyone realizes. And it is looking like it won't be long before the humans and reptilians will soon be at war. And only Marissa and a reptile-loving distant royal, Arthur, seem to be interested in preventing it.
I read a received a review copy of this book and found it very interesting. The various varieties of reptilians are based on actual reptiles. And the behaviors of people when confronted by snakes in the real world is quite accurate to that of people confronted by the reptilians in this book. The story hooked me from page one, and I will definitely be looking forward to reading book 2 in this series when it becomes available.
July 28, 2023
Review time😃💚
Okay I have just read it in 5 days, fastest I ever read.
Calling all the Slytherin fellas to gear your seat belts because I'm throwing my blurbs.💚
Firstly the cover and title were enough to hook me up.
The way Sydney portrayed a character of a hybrid girl Marissa is so fascinating and magical✨
This story revolves around a royal elite Arthur Bernnan who is by profession is a Herpetologist and a girl who is ofc a half breed of snake. Their journey in this book starts as friends bonding and holding each other on the journey of secrets and mysteries.
Devouring the past behind Marissa's identity and clashes between human and snake territories.
Also the forever Slytherin vibes similar to hocrux hidden for Voldemort the valley of scales too hiding *not so actual hocrux* but there's a lot more to reveal🥴
To be noted 💌
I love how the story building is simple and not so complicated to get into it but yeah
Yayyykkksss her eating raw Rats hahahah I couldn't hold my stomach well at that point 😵😂
Also at chap 23 I find Arthur bit coward like dude you're actually so blunt since forever why couldn't you put your points straight in matter of love and relationships 🫣🫂
Well ofcourse the most emotional pin to my heart Marissa meeting her father out of all inevitable events she found the peace (not sure for how long)😭
Tropes:
Friends to Lover🐍🩷
Forbidden Love 🐍🩷
Reverse Beauty and Beast🐍🩷
Hidden Identity 🐍🩷
Royal Elite and Half Naga🐍🩷
Snakes and Dragon🐍🩷
Also I break down to tears knowing I'm getting the second book not this year but yeah this wait would be worth I know
Okay I have just read it in 5 days, fastest I ever read.
Calling all the Slytherin fellas to gear your seat belts because I'm throwing my blurbs.💚
Firstly the cover and title were enough to hook me up.
The way Sydney portrayed a character of a hybrid girl Marissa is so fascinating and magical✨
This story revolves around a royal elite Arthur Bernnan who is by profession is a Herpetologist and a girl who is ofc a half breed of snake. Their journey in this book starts as friends bonding and holding each other on the journey of secrets and mysteries.
Devouring the past behind Marissa's identity and clashes between human and snake territories.
Also the forever Slytherin vibes similar to hocrux hidden for Voldemort the valley of scales too hiding *not so actual hocrux* but there's a lot more to reveal🥴
To be noted 💌
I love how the story building is simple and not so complicated to get into it but yeah
Yayyykkksss her eating raw Rats hahahah I couldn't hold my stomach well at that point 😵😂
Also at chap 23 I find Arthur bit coward like dude you're actually so blunt since forever why couldn't you put your points straight in matter of love and relationships 🫣🫂
Well ofcourse the most emotional pin to my heart Marissa meeting her father out of all inevitable events she found the peace (not sure for how long)😭
Tropes:
Friends to Lover🐍🩷
Forbidden Love 🐍🩷
Reverse Beauty and Beast🐍🩷
Hidden Identity 🐍🩷
Royal Elite and Half Naga🐍🩷
Snakes and Dragon🐍🩷
Also I break down to tears knowing I'm getting the second book not this year but yeah this wait would be worth I know
February 20, 2024
I don’t really read much YA anymore, but Sydney Wilder’s Daughter of Serpents sucked me in! This was so well written and so interesting that I became incredibly invested in Marissa and Arthur’s story.
Marissa, who is half-Naga, half-human, is not a bitter character despite not fitting in within the human world, which is the only one she knows. She’s jaded, but not bitter. She still has hope that the world can be better and that maybe one day there will be a place for her.
I enjoyed the different povs, it was nice to see the thought process of other characters, especially being on two different sides.
There’s clearly a slow burn on the horizon, though there wasn’t much happening between Marissa and Arthur romantically, but they did start to build a solid friendship based on trust. Love that for them!
The book was sprinkled with snake facts which I found interesting as I know next to nothing about snakes. The only thing that took me out was having ketchup in the taverns. I had to laugh a little, like ketchup in this fantasy world, what?!
This was a solid read and I am very excited for the next book in the series!
Marissa, who is half-Naga, half-human, is not a bitter character despite not fitting in within the human world, which is the only one she knows. She’s jaded, but not bitter. She still has hope that the world can be better and that maybe one day there will be a place for her.
I enjoyed the different povs, it was nice to see the thought process of other characters, especially being on two different sides.
There’s clearly a slow burn on the horizon, though there wasn’t much happening between Marissa and Arthur romantically, but they did start to build a solid friendship based on trust. Love that for them!
The book was sprinkled with snake facts which I found interesting as I know next to nothing about snakes. The only thing that took me out was having ketchup in the taverns. I had to laugh a little, like ketchup in this fantasy world, what?!
This was a solid read and I am very excited for the next book in the series!
July 26, 2024
An enjoyable YA fantasy read with an interesting and unique world of humans and beastfolk!
The Reptilians in the book fascinated me-there are four species of them; lizard folk, snake folk, tortoise folk, and gator folk. All of them lived in the lands the humans now occupy and the premise of the book centers around the rising tensions between them and how an orphaned girl, Marissa, who also happens to be the only half Naga (snake folk) out there, is at the center of all the attention.
While there are some tragedies and heavy subject matter in the story, the way that the book was written made it easy to read and fall in love with so many characters. There was just a hint of slow-burn that I really enjoyed, too.
If you're a fan of YA fantasy, a tiny bit of romance, a coming of age heroine, and reptiles in general, definitely pick up this book. I'm excited to get to the second one!
The Reptilians in the book fascinated me-there are four species of them; lizard folk, snake folk, tortoise folk, and gator folk. All of them lived in the lands the humans now occupy and the premise of the book centers around the rising tensions between them and how an orphaned girl, Marissa, who also happens to be the only half Naga (snake folk) out there, is at the center of all the attention.
While there are some tragedies and heavy subject matter in the story, the way that the book was written made it easy to read and fall in love with so many characters. There was just a hint of slow-burn that I really enjoyed, too.
If you're a fan of YA fantasy, a tiny bit of romance, a coming of age heroine, and reptiles in general, definitely pick up this book. I'm excited to get to the second one!
July 28, 2023
This was my first book by Sydney Wilder and I was very impressed. This story is extremely intriguing. We have so much action, drama, and suspense. Marissa is such a sweet and caring young lady. She is the best of both worlds in this story. You can feel the compassion and kindness that she expresses as she and Arthur try to find out what is really going both with the Naga and the humans. Even though she has not been treated well growing up she still has so much kindness in her soul. Arthur is a rare breed of human. He also expresses so much kindness and empathy. Together they make a great team. Towards the end of the story we definitely see it picking up greatly. The action and drama jump up very quickly. Then we have the shocking ending that has me super excited for the next book. This is definitely a must read and doesn’t disappoint.
November 11, 2023
Sydney is awesome at bringing the reader right into this fantasy world tale from page one. I felt that I was walking beside the characters in The Valley of the Scales right from beginning to end. Love it when a reader gets the sense that they can look around in a story and see, touch feel and smell what the author is describing. Virtual reality reading at it's finest! I immediately felt compassion for 18 year old Marissa (half Naga/half human) as she ventured out from the relative safety of the orphanage to try to make her way in "normal" society. The author takes you effortlessly through her discovery of the secrets of the past and entwines you in a slow burning romance. There are numerous moments of terror and humor along the way. Love love love the 3 headed dog! What an epic world the author has created to explore! Can't wait for the next book in the series!
February 29, 2024
Sydney is awesome at bringing the reader right into this fantasy world tale from page one. I felt that I was walking beside the characters in The Valley of the Scales right from beginning to end. Love it when a reader gets the sense that they can look around in a story and see, touch feel and smell what the author is describing. Virtual reality reading at it's finest! I immediately felt compassion for 18 year old Marissa (half Naga/half human) as she ventured out from the relative safety of the orphanage to try to make her way in "normal" society. The author takes you effortlessly through her discovery of the secrets of the past and entwines you in a slow burning romance. There are numerous moments of terror and humor along the way. Love love love the 3 headed dog! What an epic world the author has created to explore! Can't wait for the next book in the series!
April 17, 2024
This is my first reptilian series and I really enjoyed how unique the concept was compared to what I have been reading!
Our FMC Marissa is a half human half Naga trying to navigate life not belonging to either race. She has been an outcast her entire life and at the age of 18 she is completely on her own for the first time! Marissa is easy to connect with and you instantly sympathise and root for her! I can not wait to see how this character grows into her unique self in book 2!
The story is well written, moves at a nice pace and has a very slow burn romantic aspect to it! There are several species of reptilians to learn about along with a variety of human characters you may love or hate.
If your looking for an interesting and easy reptilian read this is the book for you!
Book 2 is out in May so it’s perfect for your next binge read!
Our FMC Marissa is a half human half Naga trying to navigate life not belonging to either race. She has been an outcast her entire life and at the age of 18 she is completely on her own for the first time! Marissa is easy to connect with and you instantly sympathise and root for her! I can not wait to see how this character grows into her unique self in book 2!
The story is well written, moves at a nice pace and has a very slow burn romantic aspect to it! There are several species of reptilians to learn about along with a variety of human characters you may love or hate.
If your looking for an interesting and easy reptilian read this is the book for you!
Book 2 is out in May so it’s perfect for your next binge read!
October 29, 2023
This was definitely a page turner. It was medium paced and to make sure you don't miss anything I suggest this is the pace you read it otherwise you'll miss something. I must say that it was kind of a slow info dump sprinkled through the action.
I liked that it wasn't so obvious who the villain is, I also liked that sometimes good people do bad things for the right reasons, this story didn't have one of those black and white storyline.
I look forward to seeing how the FMC deals with her new found identity and how the MMC deals with his all to human problem.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I liked that it wasn't so obvious who the villain is, I also liked that sometimes good people do bad things for the right reasons, this story didn't have one of those black and white storyline.
I look forward to seeing how the FMC deals with her new found identity and how the MMC deals with his all to human problem.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 31, 2024
Daughter of Serpents is a YA Fantasy novel with unique world building and fascinating creatures! The POV alternates between multiple characters including Marissa, the FMC who is half-reptilian and half-human, Arthur, a menagerie shopkeeper and not-so-distant relative to the King of the Valley of Scales, and a full Naga who is determined to return the Valley of Scales to the natives who inhabited it long before the humans arrived.
This story is full of unwinding plots and connections, and unraveling of major events to come. The romantic elements are slowly unfolding (typical in YA), and I'm definitely rooting for Marissa and Arthur!
This story is full of unwinding plots and connections, and unraveling of major events to come. The romantic elements are slowly unfolding (typical in YA), and I'm definitely rooting for Marissa and Arthur!
April 25, 2024
So, I know this is YA, but it never felt like it. It has a variety of tropes and features I like including teased Forbidden romances, friends to lovers, slow burn, multiple pov, rich story telling and world building... I'm telling you, this is such a good story. Marissa is a fun and intriguing MC. While she has obvious trauma and insecurities, her goals, ambitions, and other wonderful traits help to expertly balance her into a a character you want to succeed. Arthur is charming, intelligent, and a fun character to be around. If the cover doesn't give it away, the book is super snake heavy. This is a wonderfully competent story, and I can't wait for more.
May 7, 2024
What an original story ✨
Being a snake lover myself, I adored the intricate knowledge of snakes which this author obviously has.
This is the story of half-snake girl, Marissa, living on the fringes of society trying to find her place in this world while undergoing a quest to find the mysterious Naha who has been terrorising human villages.
The romance is gentle, focusing first and foremost on friendship and found family - which is refreshing when you read a lot of fantasy. I loved the message of self acceptance.
You’re hit with a twist right at the end but that’s okay because book two is out soon and you can guarantee that I’ve already preordered my copy!
Being a snake lover myself, I adored the intricate knowledge of snakes which this author obviously has.
This is the story of half-snake girl, Marissa, living on the fringes of society trying to find her place in this world while undergoing a quest to find the mysterious Naha who has been terrorising human villages.
The romance is gentle, focusing first and foremost on friendship and found family - which is refreshing when you read a lot of fantasy. I loved the message of self acceptance.
You’re hit with a twist right at the end but that’s okay because book two is out soon and you can guarantee that I’ve already preordered my copy!
July 29, 2025
Daughter of Serpents by Sydney Wilder is such a unique fantasy book! I absolutely loved it and would recommend it to anyone who likes fantasy and wants it done in a new and exciting way! Marrisa's experience as a half-human/half-Naga (snake people), thrown into the world without guidance or options, sets the stage for an exciting adventure!
I loved the chemistry between her and Arthur. They were truly like partners in crime for everything they did 😆 The ending leaves me needing to finish this series! I read this in three sittings and stayed up way too late to finish it!
Don't miss this fantasy trilogy with some slow-burn romance! 5/5 cute snake from me! 🐍🐍🐍🐍🐍
I loved the chemistry between her and Arthur. They were truly like partners in crime for everything they did 😆 The ending leaves me needing to finish this series! I read this in three sittings and stayed up way too late to finish it!
Don't miss this fantasy trilogy with some slow-burn romance! 5/5 cute snake from me! 🐍🐍🐍🐍🐍
August 28, 2023
The premise of this book sounded really promising. I was super-excited to read it. Then it went downhill. The first thing that really disappointed me was the lack of clear description of Marissa. I had a difficult time envisioning and connecting with her character. I don't know if it was because of the lack of description or something else. There were also a lot of repetitive words. It was kind of distracting, honestly.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 25, 2023
This was such a fantastic read! I was intrigued by the premise immediately, and once I dove in, I flew through these pages -- a fast-paced, fun, and engrossing novel that follows Marissa, an outcast half-naga, and Arthur, a sweet-natured herpetologist, on their journey together to prevent bloodshed and war from breaking out. It contained so many of my favorite elements in a fantasy novel -- a monstrous FMC, secret identities that are later revealed, unique and compelling world-building, and a really endearing slow-burn romance. I can't wait for the next book!
October 21, 2023
This slow-burn original tale involves a reptilian race called the Naga and humans who hate each other. The MFC Marissa, a reptile half-human who is alone and trying to find her place in the world, and Arthur the reptile-loving cousin to the human king. A war between the Naga and humans is on the horizon and only Marissa and Arthur want to prevent it. This is an interesting tale but, not one that held my interest.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 1, 2025
Daughter of Serpents by Sydney Wilder is an atmospheric and delightful read, blending humor, adventure, and the fascinating world of reptiles. The prologue hooked me immediately with its suspenseful action and emotional depth, making me care for the characters from the start.
Sydney’s writing is natural and immersive. The themes of beauty in terrifying places and reimagining traditionally villainous symbols like snakes are profound and thought-provoking. By the end, I was intrigued and eager to find out what happens next. A fantastic setup for book two!
Sydney’s writing is natural and immersive. The themes of beauty in terrifying places and reimagining traditionally villainous symbols like snakes are profound and thought-provoking. By the end, I was intrigued and eager to find out what happens next. A fantastic setup for book two!
August 27, 2023
I loved this book! Sydney Wilder puts her passion for reptiles friends to good use and has created a wonderful story. I enjoyed reading the character progression and development as the story progressed.
Marissa is my favorite character. She is very nice and even with her rough upbringings she is a kind humanoid with the ability to trust and care for humanity.
10/10!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Marissa is my favorite character. She is very nice and even with her rough upbringings she is a kind humanoid with the ability to trust and care for humanity.
10/10!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 2, 2023
Daughter of Serpents by Sydney Wilder.
Book 1 of The Valley of Scales Saga.
Her whole life they called her a monster. Now she’s the only one that can save them all.
I really enjoyed this book. I loved Marissa and Arthur. Even Sienna and Thomas. Also little Nim was cute. I didn't like Ramsey and King Gabriel at all. Aina and Devon I wasn't sure about. I'm looking forward to the next book. 5*.
Book 1 of The Valley of Scales Saga.
Her whole life they called her a monster. Now she’s the only one that can save them all.
I really enjoyed this book. I loved Marissa and Arthur. Even Sienna and Thomas. Also little Nim was cute. I didn't like Ramsey and King Gabriel at all. Aina and Devon I wasn't sure about. I'm looking forward to the next book. 5*.
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