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Serpent Darling
Hello, Darling...
As Sadie struggles to uncover her best friend's dark past, she realizes that the man she thought she knew is a stranger. Jagger's ties to his own dangerous gang and a secret dungeon hidden within the walls of The Serpent Pit bar send shockwaves through Sadie's world, blurring the lines between reality and her own desires.
Amidst the chaos and deception, a clandestine connection forms between Sadie and Jagger as they begin exchanging secrets on a mysterious app. As their online relationship deepens, threatening to consume the fragile bond they share in the real world, they must confront the darkness within themselves and each other.
As Sadie struggles to uncover her best friend's dark past, she realizes that the man she thought she knew is a stranger. Jagger's ties to his own dangerous gang and a secret dungeon hidden within the walls of The Serpent Pit bar send shockwaves through Sadie's world, blurring the lines between reality and her own desires.
Amidst the chaos and deception, a clandestine connection forms between Sadie and Jagger as they begin exchanging secrets on a mysterious app. As their online relationship deepens, threatening to consume the fragile bond they share in the real world, they must confront the darkness within themselves and each other.
195 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 7, 2024
71 people are currently reading
1172 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 195 reviews
December 4, 2025
I totally binge read this novella and omg was it good. Biker best friend that’s completely and utterly in love with you? Yes please 😍
September 24, 2024
Serpent Darling is pure filth in the best possible way—sexy, spicy, and guaranteed to give you all the feels! 🐍🔥 With friends-to-lovers vibes, this book is an entertaining and fast-paced read that you won't be able to put down. If you're looking for a steamy escape, this one is packed with heat and heart. Definitely a must-read for spice lovers!
September 12, 2024
Let me first say that I was lucky enough to be an ARC reader for this book. Spoiler marked at the end!!
Okay now onto the good stuff. I really enjoyed this book! Spice 1.5/2 out of 5 🌶
This falls more into the light side of the dark romance genre which is not my typical read but I am so glad I got to read this book. The sweet banter, the long-lasting friendship, the pining for each other, and the HEA are everything. This book focuses on the attraction between best friends Jagger & Sadie with just enough spice to make you blush a bit. More than anything I liked the characters a lot and I wished there was more to their story. I would happily read another book about them.
*Spoiler*
The marriage proposal was perfect for the two of them and Bianca deserved that hit!
Okay now onto the good stuff. I really enjoyed this book! Spice 1.5/2 out of 5 🌶
This falls more into the light side of the dark romance genre which is not my typical read but I am so glad I got to read this book. The sweet banter, the long-lasting friendship, the pining for each other, and the HEA are everything. This book focuses on the attraction between best friends Jagger & Sadie with just enough spice to make you blush a bit. More than anything I liked the characters a lot and I wished there was more to their story. I would happily read another book about them.
*Spoiler*
The marriage proposal was perfect for the two of them and Bianca deserved that hit!
September 25, 2024
This book is a fast-paced, quick read to read between books. I read the book in one sitting and was captivated from the start.
Friends to lovers is usually not a trope I enjoy, but damn the author sure did change my mind. Sade and Jagger chemistry is smokin’ hot. I feel like I need a biker best friend.
I am high key impressed with the plot, not high in smut and more on the lighter side of dark romance. On my dark scale it’s a medium gray.
If you’re looking for a palate cleanser, a dark romance reader, or looking to start reading dark romance, this book is for you.
October 13, 2024
The cover of the book instantly captivated my attention, and its beauty left me in awe. From the very first page, I found myself completely engrossed in the story. Sadie and Jagger have become characters that I am deeply fascinated with.
September 13, 2024
I read this as an ARC read. I finished in two days. I am new to dark romance and this one excels having a storyline. A lot of dark romances don’t have a real storyline. Jagger and Sadie are very likable characters. I could visualize the bar and the complete setup! Great writing! Author did a great job with the storyline. It continued to grow and grow and get better with every page. There is a lot of character development throughout the book. Great job with this dark romance!!
September 19, 2024
ARC review of sᴇʀᴘᴇɴᴛ ᴅᴀʀʟɪɴɢ by Pandora Cress, with a NEW release date of Oct 7!
Rating: 4⭐️ / Spice: 4🌶️
"𝒀𝒐𝒖'𝒓𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒎𝒐𝒔𝒕 𝒈𝒍𝒐𝒓𝒊𝒐𝒖𝒔 𝒔𝒑𝒆𝒄𝒊𝒎𝒆𝒏 𝒐𝒇 𝒂 𝒘𝒐𝒎𝒂𝒏 𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒍𝒅, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑰'𝒎 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒃𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒅. 𝑰'𝒗𝒆 𝒂𝒍𝒘𝒂𝒚𝒔 𝒔𝒆𝒆𝒏 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒂𝒓𝒆. 𝑴𝒊𝒏𝒆."
This was such a good story! It’s definitely a great intro into the darker romance genre, for those looking to get into them, it is a mix of contemporary and "light" dark romance.
I fell in love with Jagger and Sadie almost instantly. Jagger is a motorcycle gang member trying to clean up the bar he now owns from the mess his father left it in due to the gangs prior 'illegal activities’. Sadie is a long time friend of Jagger's, having met in college, and hitting it off due to both of their easy going personalities. Deciding to help him clean up the bar was the best decision for both of them, and throughout the book you see their relationship blossom into more than just a friendship (which you can tell has been a long time coming). There was lots of spice, lots of witty banter, and a great plot throughout. The scene with Sadie dancing on the pole in the club to distract certain patrons *might* be my favourite part of the book (IYKYK 😉). I might also be obsessed with the song "I'm a Sucker for a Liar in a Red Dress" by Adam Jensen now 🥵.
It was fast paced, told in 3rd person POV, and on the shorter side, but it kept my attention so much that I read this book in one afternoon! I absolutely would recommend this book to anyone who loves a bad boy, a girl who seems innocent at first but definitely isn't, their shared love for rougher play, and some MC vibes.
𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐬/𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐦𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐛𝐞 𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐠𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠:
🐍 intense s3xual situations
🐍 tox!c parents
🐍 BD/SM
🐍 cons3nsual s3xual v!olence
🐍 mentions of drvg use
🐍 gang depictions
🐍 excessive swearing
🐍 smoking
🐍 off-page mvrder
🐍 OW/OM drama
🐍 best friends to lovers
🩵💜🩷 HUGE thank you to Pandora Cress and her team for allowing me the wonderful opportunity to receive this arc in exchange for my honest review. I cannot wait for the next in the series already!!
Rating: 4⭐️ / Spice: 4🌶️
"𝒀𝒐𝒖'𝒓𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒎𝒐𝒔𝒕 𝒈𝒍𝒐𝒓𝒊𝒐𝒖𝒔 𝒔𝒑𝒆𝒄𝒊𝒎𝒆𝒏 𝒐𝒇 𝒂 𝒘𝒐𝒎𝒂𝒏 𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒍𝒅, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑰'𝒎 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒃𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒅. 𝑰'𝒗𝒆 𝒂𝒍𝒘𝒂𝒚𝒔 𝒔𝒆𝒆𝒏 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒂𝒓𝒆. 𝑴𝒊𝒏𝒆."
This was such a good story! It’s definitely a great intro into the darker romance genre, for those looking to get into them, it is a mix of contemporary and "light" dark romance.
I fell in love with Jagger and Sadie almost instantly. Jagger is a motorcycle gang member trying to clean up the bar he now owns from the mess his father left it in due to the gangs prior 'illegal activities’. Sadie is a long time friend of Jagger's, having met in college, and hitting it off due to both of their easy going personalities. Deciding to help him clean up the bar was the best decision for both of them, and throughout the book you see their relationship blossom into more than just a friendship (which you can tell has been a long time coming). There was lots of spice, lots of witty banter, and a great plot throughout. The scene with Sadie dancing on the pole in the club to distract certain patrons *might* be my favourite part of the book (IYKYK 😉). I might also be obsessed with the song "I'm a Sucker for a Liar in a Red Dress" by Adam Jensen now 🥵.
It was fast paced, told in 3rd person POV, and on the shorter side, but it kept my attention so much that I read this book in one afternoon! I absolutely would recommend this book to anyone who loves a bad boy, a girl who seems innocent at first but definitely isn't, their shared love for rougher play, and some MC vibes.
𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐬/𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐦𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐛𝐞 𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐠𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠:
🐍 intense s3xual situations
🐍 tox!c parents
🐍 BD/SM
🐍 cons3nsual s3xual v!olence
🐍 mentions of drvg use
🐍 gang depictions
🐍 excessive swearing
🐍 smoking
🐍 off-page mvrder
🐍 OW/OM drama
🐍 best friends to lovers
🩵💜🩷 HUGE thank you to Pandora Cress and her team for allowing me the wonderful opportunity to receive this arc in exchange for my honest review. I cannot wait for the next in the series already!!
September 15, 2024
I read this so fast. It's not too long. it was definitely a fun read! Jagger and Sadie are so great together. I love bickering between characters, and this was spot on.
It's a lighter dark romance. (Check TW's) so if you are new or wanting to get into dark romances, I think would be a great book to start with. To see if you would be into more of the darker reads.
Theres not a lot of spice in it. Maybe 3 out of 5? I still enjoyed it. When the spice did happen, I think it was written well. BDSM is in the book. It kind of reminded me of Jughead and Betty from riverdale but out of college.
I can't wait to owm a physical copy of it 😁
It's a lighter dark romance. (Check TW's) so if you are new or wanting to get into dark romances, I think would be a great book to start with. To see if you would be into more of the darker reads.
Theres not a lot of spice in it. Maybe 3 out of 5? I still enjoyed it. When the spice did happen, I think it was written well. BDSM is in the book. It kind of reminded me of Jughead and Betty from riverdale but out of college.
I can't wait to owm a physical copy of it 😁
September 25, 2024
Yes, Darling. Read it!
I recently had the opportunity to read this ARC of 'Serpent Darling' and I have to say, it's an absolute gem of a novella. The author's writing style is captivating, and I found myself wishing the story were longer because I was so engrossed in it. What I particularly enjoyed was the unique blend of dark romance elements with a beginner-friendly approach, making it a perfect choice for those looking to ease into the genre. The writing is top-notch and the story is wonderfully spicy, making it a must-read for anyone in need of a captivating and refreshing escape.
I recently had the opportunity to read this ARC of 'Serpent Darling' and I have to say, it's an absolute gem of a novella. The author's writing style is captivating, and I found myself wishing the story were longer because I was so engrossed in it. What I particularly enjoyed was the unique blend of dark romance elements with a beginner-friendly approach, making it a perfect choice for those looking to ease into the genre. The writing is top-notch and the story is wonderfully spicy, making it a must-read for anyone in need of a captivating and refreshing escape.
February 2, 2025
This spicy nug was just what I needed to round off January!
I got Riverdale vibes from this book and I was here. For. It!
This story follows Jagger and Sadie, long time best friends, Sadie gives up part of her life to help Jagger take over his dads bar, The Serpent Pit, so they can get it up and running and in better condition than before.
Sadie, works at the paper with her mom, is a blonde sweetheart with quite the feisty side you don’t expect.
Jagger is the bad boy with a touch her and 💀 vibe. He’s not what his dad and his dad’s gang is, but he can also protect what’s his. Jagger is working on a novel throughout the story as well. Watch these two passionate writers from opposite sides of the track, collide. 😉
In this friends to lovers book be ready for spice, spice, spice!
•Friends to Lovers
•BDSM
•Secret Texts
•Good girl/Bad Boy
I got Riverdale vibes from this book and I was here. For. It!
This story follows Jagger and Sadie, long time best friends, Sadie gives up part of her life to help Jagger take over his dads bar, The Serpent Pit, so they can get it up and running and in better condition than before.
Sadie, works at the paper with her mom, is a blonde sweetheart with quite the feisty side you don’t expect.
Jagger is the bad boy with a touch her and 💀 vibe. He’s not what his dad and his dad’s gang is, but he can also protect what’s his. Jagger is working on a novel throughout the story as well. Watch these two passionate writers from opposite sides of the track, collide. 😉
In this friends to lovers book be ready for spice, spice, spice!
•Friends to Lovers
•BDSM
•Secret Texts
•Good girl/Bad Boy
September 17, 2024
LOVED LOVED LOVED IT !!! It had all the HOOOOTTTT SPICE IN IT! I got Son's of Anarchy meets 50 shades of gray vibes. Best friends to lovers -- add a little jealousy and a splash of love and heaping scoop of spice and you got yourself and juicy romance. I loved it from start to finish. It was a quick read, because I couldn't put it down. Definitely need to add it to your TBR!
September 25, 2024
Rating: 3.5
Spice: 2/3
It’s definitely a lite dark romance, it’s sorta third person pov with being both the MMC and fmc switching back and forth and headspace. So that was a bit different for me reader wise as it’s been a bit 😅
Friends to lovers with a bit of hidden identity are some of the main focal tropes. It’s alluded their past and such so it shouldn’t feel shocking the chemistry that they’ve been pining but it’s definitely got insta love feels. So don’t expect a build up.
It’s cutesy and enjoyable for a quick weekend / evening read though so recommend for that at least.
Tw on page cheating
Spice: 2/3
It’s definitely a lite dark romance, it’s sorta third person pov with being both the MMC and fmc switching back and forth and headspace. So that was a bit different for me reader wise as it’s been a bit 😅
Friends to lovers with a bit of hidden identity are some of the main focal tropes. It’s alluded their past and such so it shouldn’t feel shocking the chemistry that they’ve been pining but it’s definitely got insta love feels. So don’t expect a build up.
It’s cutesy and enjoyable for a quick weekend / evening read though so recommend for that at least.
Tw on page cheating
September 11, 2024
I read this book in one day! I loved this book so much! I did not want it to end! I need more Jagger and Sadie! If your looking for a biker story with alot of spice this is the book for you!
September 30, 2024
Really enjoyed this, loved the main characters soo much!!
Can’t wait for its release!! 27th October
Can’t wait for its release!! 27th October
October 1, 2024
This was an excellent quick smutty read. I loved the connection and storyline. I wish the end was flushed out a little before the epilogue but otherwise a fantastic read!
October 14, 2024
This book was oh so hot and gave me some good ideas I can do with my husband 👀 I need the next one like, yesterday.
😘🫶❤️
😘🫶❤️
March 8, 2025
Rating: ⭐️��️⭐️⭐️.3
Spice : 🌶️🌶️ 🌶️
Do I Recommend: 👍🏽
This story follows best friends who have liked each other for years but have been afraid that if they got together they would lose what they have. Jagger is a hot biker who owns a bar. He’s also obsessed with her but has respected their friendship til a an comes into play and they start messaging each other and he realizes its her that he’s been talking to.
“You're the most glorious specimen of a woman in the world, and I'm not blind. I've always seen you for what you are. Mine.” 😍🔥🤩🤤
Friends to lovers, biker, anyone who touches her or treats her bad is banned from his bar. This book was entertaining and fast with a bit of BDSM Dom/Sub Vibe.
Also look how stunning the cover is.
Spice : 🌶️🌶️ 🌶️
Do I Recommend: 👍🏽
This story follows best friends who have liked each other for years but have been afraid that if they got together they would lose what they have. Jagger is a hot biker who owns a bar. He’s also obsessed with her but has respected their friendship til a an comes into play and they start messaging each other and he realizes its her that he’s been talking to.
“You're the most glorious specimen of a woman in the world, and I'm not blind. I've always seen you for what you are. Mine.” 😍🔥🤩🤤
Friends to lovers, biker, anyone who touches her or treats her bad is banned from his bar. This book was entertaining and fast with a bit of BDSM Dom/Sub Vibe.
Also look how stunning the cover is.
September 25, 2024
I've only explored a handful of dark romances so far, and I have a growing TBR pile thanks to my lovely friend @ablondieslibrary over on instagram😘, lol. This book serves as a perfect introduction to the captivating world of dark romance. It's a short and sweet read packed with plenty of spice! The story revolves around a friends to lovers dynamic, featuring a biker gang member who is deeply in love with his girl best friend. He remains respectful until he doesn’t, if you catch my drift😉
As with any dark romance, I strongly recommend checking the trigger warnings before diving in, as the book addresses several heavy topics and includes scenes that may be triggering for some readers.
As with any dark romance, I strongly recommend checking the trigger warnings before diving in, as the book addresses several heavy topics and includes scenes that may be triggering for some readers.
September 16, 2024
I was lucky enough to be an ARC reader for this book and man, was this such a fun read!!! I really enjoy dark romance and this was a lighter dark romance story. The story is fun, the characters lovable and there are some laugh out loud scenes(Because the way I Cackled when they broke in his “sex dungeon” while it was in use🤣🤣🤣) The spice is spicy and the pole dance scenes are really accurate🥰 I really hope you enjoy this book as much as I did!!
4⭐️ 3🌶️
4⭐️ 3🌶️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 17, 2024
First I wanted to say thank you to Pandora for giving me an opportunity to ARC read for her !!!
This book was definitely a one day binge kind of book!!! If you want something fast paced and SPICY, this is a great book to read!!!!! I love love love how the characters started out as friends with a ton of history between them and you watch their friendship grow into something more !!!! Definitely worth the read !!! Especially if you like spice 😘
This book was definitely a one day binge kind of book!!! If you want something fast paced and SPICY, this is a great book to read!!!!! I love love love how the characters started out as friends with a ton of history between them and you watch their friendship grow into something more !!!! Definitely worth the read !!! Especially if you like spice 😘
October 27, 2024
Super fast pace, very fun . I love the friends to lovers and the slow burn. If you're looking for a quick fun read, this is definitely it, and I definitely get Jughead and Betty vibes.
October 27, 2024
If you like romance with a side of bikers this book is for you! Serpent Darling was such a fun and quick read! I loved how the characters grew with each other and how their romance budded!
Remember to check warnings!
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
3🌶️🌶️🌶️
Remember to check warnings!
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
3🌶️🌶️🌶️
March 22, 2025
this was a perfect quick read! if you love friends to lovers and you love bikers then this is the book for you! Jag and Sadie were everything and can’t wait to see more of them. I loved seeing their friendship grow and blossom. This was just perfect
October 7, 2024
4.75 stars
If you are looking for a deep, intense, emotional, epic novel…well, that isn’t this book. But don’t get me wrong, Serpent Darling is perfect for what it is. It is the book you read when you want a quick, SPICY book with a little plot, but honestly, it’s mostly spice. It’s the book you read when you need to read two characters that you will absolutely love, but you want to be able to read it in a day. It’s the book you read when you are searching desperately for something more than a vanilla romance but don’t have the capacity to read a super dark novel. It’s the book you read when you want to just have some good spicy fun with the characters.
The relationship between Jagger and Sadie is one that happens so often. Two best friends that have been through so much together, that know they are attracted to each other, but don’t think it will ever happen. Sadie is in a relationship with a very nice guy, someone that has sweet times in bed. But she is really yearning for something more. It is so hard to communicate with a partner when your tastes are so different, and you fear that yours won’t be accepted. She works for her mother and her weekday life seems to be very “normal”. But she comes alive at The Serpent Pit. She wears cut up shirts and motorcycle boots. She dances on the pole before and/or after the club opens. She knows what she wants but she is nervous to reach out and grab it. It takes a catalyst for her to finally take control of her life.
Jagger is the best version of so many different MMCs. He’s a gang member, but he has cleaned up the gang. He’s a club owner, but he’s also a writer. He’s dominant, but he cares so much for his friend/the woman he has been pining for. Jagger is the type of MMC you yearn for. He’s rough around the edges and might have to bury a body or two, but he doesn’t take it lightly.
If I had any issue with this book, it’s that I wanted more. It was such a quick read that I definitely didn’t get bored, but I would have loved to learn more about the gang or about Sadie’s family life. But I think it’s a pretty good problem to have when my only issue is that I wanted more. This book is spice with a dash of plot and it does a great job at being an entertaining read.
If you are looking for a deep, intense, emotional, epic novel…well, that isn’t this book. But don’t get me wrong, Serpent Darling is perfect for what it is. It is the book you read when you want a quick, SPICY book with a little plot, but honestly, it’s mostly spice. It’s the book you read when you need to read two characters that you will absolutely love, but you want to be able to read it in a day. It’s the book you read when you are searching desperately for something more than a vanilla romance but don’t have the capacity to read a super dark novel. It’s the book you read when you want to just have some good spicy fun with the characters.
The relationship between Jagger and Sadie is one that happens so often. Two best friends that have been through so much together, that know they are attracted to each other, but don’t think it will ever happen. Sadie is in a relationship with a very nice guy, someone that has sweet times in bed. But she is really yearning for something more. It is so hard to communicate with a partner when your tastes are so different, and you fear that yours won’t be accepted. She works for her mother and her weekday life seems to be very “normal”. But she comes alive at The Serpent Pit. She wears cut up shirts and motorcycle boots. She dances on the pole before and/or after the club opens. She knows what she wants but she is nervous to reach out and grab it. It takes a catalyst for her to finally take control of her life.
Jagger is the best version of so many different MMCs. He’s a gang member, but he has cleaned up the gang. He’s a club owner, but he’s also a writer. He’s dominant, but he cares so much for his friend/the woman he has been pining for. Jagger is the type of MMC you yearn for. He’s rough around the edges and might have to bury a body or two, but he doesn’t take it lightly.
If I had any issue with this book, it’s that I wanted more. It was such a quick read that I definitely didn’t get bored, but I would have loved to learn more about the gang or about Sadie’s family life. But I think it’s a pretty good problem to have when my only issue is that I wanted more. This book is spice with a dash of plot and it does a great job at being an entertaining read.
April 16, 2025
Serpent Darling” by Pandora Cress is a spicy, dark romance that keeps you hooked from start to finish. The relationship between Sadie and Jagger is undeniably intense. They’ve been friends for years, and the chemistry between them simmers just beneath the surface before it boils over. It’s got all the tension you want from a friends-to-lovers story, but with a darker edge thanks to some of the more dangerous elements in the plot.
What I really appreciated was the way the book balanced the heat with character development. Jagger isn’t just the stereotypical bad boy; he’s complex, protective, and has a vulnerability that adds depth to the romance. Sadie, on the other hand, is strong, independent, and not afraid to go after what she wants—even when it scares her. Their back-and-forth dynamic kept me turning the pages.
The pacing is fast, which works well for a novella. There’s no fluff, and the plot moves forward quickly without losing momentum. But while the story is undeniably hot, it also dives into darker, more serious themes like loyalty, trust, and the consequences of living in a world full of dangerous people.
That being said, this book is definitely not for everyone. It has some BDSM elements, heavy angst, and a level of explicit content that could be too much for readers looking for a lighter romance. If you’re into dark romance with a bit of edge and a lot of heat, “Serpent Darling” will be right up your alley.
Overall, I enjoyed it for what it is: a thrilling, seductive read with well-drawn characters and an intense plot that makes you root for the couple despite the chaos around them.
What I really appreciated was the way the book balanced the heat with character development. Jagger isn’t just the stereotypical bad boy; he’s complex, protective, and has a vulnerability that adds depth to the romance. Sadie, on the other hand, is strong, independent, and not afraid to go after what she wants—even when it scares her. Their back-and-forth dynamic kept me turning the pages.
The pacing is fast, which works well for a novella. There’s no fluff, and the plot moves forward quickly without losing momentum. But while the story is undeniably hot, it also dives into darker, more serious themes like loyalty, trust, and the consequences of living in a world full of dangerous people.
That being said, this book is definitely not for everyone. It has some BDSM elements, heavy angst, and a level of explicit content that could be too much for readers looking for a lighter romance. If you’re into dark romance with a bit of edge and a lot of heat, “Serpent Darling” will be right up your alley.
Overall, I enjoyed it for what it is: a thrilling, seductive read with well-drawn characters and an intense plot that makes you root for the couple despite the chaos around them.
October 7, 2024
"Now destroy this p**y, Wilder."
"Yes, darling."
-----
Content warning (not a complete list): swearing, ow/om drama, g@ng depictions, smoking (cigarette) mention of dru9s and mention of murd€r.
S3xual content (not a complete list): b.d.$.m, toys, and s3xting.
For more information check out the content warning in the book.
-----
This is a standalone
Ending: hea
Spice: it's short and spicy, 4.
Written in 3rd person POV
----
Serpent Darling is a sexy, friends to lovers romance with a fun vibe. It's a short read and serves as a good palate cleanser book. If you want to escape into a spicy book that has some pole dancing and bikers, this might be for you.
Jagger and Sadie are friends who work at a bar together, the Serpent Pit. Jagger is a bad boy who runs the bar. He's a motorcycle riding, leather jacket wearing man who does some shady stuff. Sadie is a woman who grew up on the right side of the tracks who loves to pole dance and wants to explore b.d.$.m.
I enjoyed Jagger and Sadie's dynamics. They had a good friendship, but their pinning and attraction to each other was sizzling. They had a banter that was playful and sexy, that I enjoyed. Jagger and Sadie had some good spicy moments. This is a dark romance, but it's very light. If you're new to dark romance and want something spicy, this is a good book to consider reading.
This was a fun and good palete cleanser book for me.
This was an ARC read and review. I'm grateful to the author for giving me the opportunity to read this book.
"Yes, darling."
-----
Content warning (not a complete list): swearing, ow/om drama, g@ng depictions, smoking (cigarette) mention of dru9s and mention of murd€r.
S3xual content (not a complete list): b.d.$.m, toys, and s3xting.
For more information check out the content warning in the book.
-----
This is a standalone
Ending: hea
Spice: it's short and spicy, 4.
Written in 3rd person POV
----
Serpent Darling is a sexy, friends to lovers romance with a fun vibe. It's a short read and serves as a good palate cleanser book. If you want to escape into a spicy book that has some pole dancing and bikers, this might be for you.
Jagger and Sadie are friends who work at a bar together, the Serpent Pit. Jagger is a bad boy who runs the bar. He's a motorcycle riding, leather jacket wearing man who does some shady stuff. Sadie is a woman who grew up on the right side of the tracks who loves to pole dance and wants to explore b.d.$.m.
I enjoyed Jagger and Sadie's dynamics. They had a good friendship, but their pinning and attraction to each other was sizzling. They had a banter that was playful and sexy, that I enjoyed. Jagger and Sadie had some good spicy moments. This is a dark romance, but it's very light. If you're new to dark romance and want something spicy, this is a good book to consider reading.
This was a fun and good palete cleanser book for me.
This was an ARC read and review. I'm grateful to the author for giving me the opportunity to read this book.
October 6, 2024
ARC Review;
Rating; ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐬/𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐦𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐛𝐞 𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐠𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠:
🐍 intense s3xual situations
🐍 tox!c parents
🐍 BD/SM
🐍 cons3nsual s3xual v!olence
🐍 mentions of drvg use
🐍 gang depictions
🐍 excessive swearing
🐍 smoking
🐍 off-page mvrder
🐍 OW/OM drama
🐍 best friends to lovers
Serpent Darling is pure filth in the best possible way—sexy, spicy, and guaranteed to give you all the feels! 🐍🔥 With friends-to-lovers vibes, this book is an entertaining and fast-paced read that you won't be able to put down. If you're looking for a steamy escape, this one is packed with heat and heart. Definitely a must-read for spice lovers!
This falls more into the light side of the dark romance genre The sweet banter, the long-lasting friendship, the pining for each other, and the HEA are everything. This book focuses on the attraction between best friends Jagger & Sadie with just enough spice to make you blush a bit.
Jagger is a motorcycle gang member trying to clean up the bar he now owns from the mess his father left it in due to the gangs prior 'illegal activities’.
throughout the book you see their relationship blossom into more than just a friendship (which you can tell has been a long time coming). There was lots of spice, lots of witty banter, and a great plot throughout.
Rating; ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐬/𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐦𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐛𝐞 𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐠𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠:
🐍 intense s3xual situations
🐍 tox!c parents
🐍 BD/SM
🐍 cons3nsual s3xual v!olence
🐍 mentions of drvg use
🐍 gang depictions
🐍 excessive swearing
🐍 smoking
🐍 off-page mvrder
🐍 OW/OM drama
🐍 best friends to lovers
Serpent Darling is pure filth in the best possible way—sexy, spicy, and guaranteed to give you all the feels! 🐍🔥 With friends-to-lovers vibes, this book is an entertaining and fast-paced read that you won't be able to put down. If you're looking for a steamy escape, this one is packed with heat and heart. Definitely a must-read for spice lovers!
This falls more into the light side of the dark romance genre The sweet banter, the long-lasting friendship, the pining for each other, and the HEA are everything. This book focuses on the attraction between best friends Jagger & Sadie with just enough spice to make you blush a bit.
Jagger is a motorcycle gang member trying to clean up the bar he now owns from the mess his father left it in due to the gangs prior 'illegal activities’.
throughout the book you see their relationship blossom into more than just a friendship (which you can tell has been a long time coming). There was lots of spice, lots of witty banter, and a great plot throughout.
September 10, 2024
𝔖𝔢𝔯𝔭𝔢𝔫𝔱 𝔇𝔞𝔯𝔩𝔦𝔫𝔤 𝔟𝔶 𝔓𝔞𝔫𝔡𝔬𝔯𝔞 ℭ𝔯𝔢𝔰𝔰 (𝔄ℜℭ ℜ𝔢𝔳𝔦𝔢𝔴)
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Fav Quotes:
“ᴊᴀɢɢᴇʀ ᴋɴᴇᴡ ʙᴇᴛᴛᴇʀ ᴛʜᴀɴ ᴛᴏ ᴡᴀᴛᴄʜ ʜᴇʀ ɢᴇᴛ ᴜɴᴅʀᴇꜱꜱᴇᴅ, ɴᴏᴛ ᴛʀᴜꜱᴛɪɴɢ ʜɪᴍꜱᴇʟꜰ ᴛᴏ ᴋᴇᴇᴘ ʜɪꜱ ʜᴀɴᴅꜱ ᴏꜰꜰ ᴏꜰ ʜᴇʀ.”
“ʜɪꜱ ᴇʏᴇꜱ ᴡᴇʀᴇ ᴅᴀʀᴋᴇʀ ᴛʜᴀɴ ꜱʜᴇ’ᴅ ᴇᴠᴇʀ ꜱᴇᴇɴ ʙᴇꜰᴏʀᴇ, ᴀɴᴅ ᴡᴇᴛɴᴇꜱꜱ ᴀʟʀᴇᴀᴅʏ ʙᴇɢᴀɴ ᴛᴏ ꜱᴛʀɪᴘ ᴏꜰꜰ ʜᴇʀ ʀᴇᴅ ᴅʀᴇꜱꜱ, ʙʀɪɴɢɪɴɢ ɪᴛ ᴜᴘ ᴏᴠᴇʀ ʜᴇ�� ʜᴇᴀᴅ ᴀɴᴅ ᴛᴏꜱꜱɪɴɢ ɪᴛ ᴛᴏ ᴛʜᴇ ꜱɪᴅᴇ.”
“ɪ ᴋɴᴏᴡ ʏᴏᴜ ᴡᴀɴᴛᴇᴅ ᴀ ʙʟɪɴᴅꜰᴏʟᴅ, ʙᴜᴛ ɪ ᴡᴀɴᴛ ʏᴏᴜ ᴛᴏ ʟᴏᴏᴋ ᴀᴛ ᴍᴇ ᴛʜᴇ ꜰɪʀꜱᴛ ᴛɪᴍᴇ ɪ ᴍᴀᴋᴇ ʏᴏᴜ ᴄᴜᴍ ᴡɪᴛʜ ᴍʏ ᴍᴏᴜᴛʜ.”
“ʜᴇ ᴄᴏᴜʟᴅ ᴛᴀꜱᴛᴇ ʜɪᴍꜱᴇʟꜰ ᴏɴ ʜᴇʀ ʟɪᴘꜱ, ᴀɴᴅ ᴛʜᴇʀᴇ ᴡᴀꜱ ꜱᴏᴍᴇᴛʜɪɴɢ ꜰɪʟᴛʜʏ ᴀɴᴅ ᴀɴɪᴍᴀʟɪꜱᴛɪᴄ ᴀʙᴏᴜᴛ ɪᴛ ᴛʜᴀᴛ ɪᴛ ᴍᴀᴅᴇ ʜɪᴍ ᴄʀᴀᴠᴇ ᴛᴏ ᴋɴᴏᴡ ᴡʜᴀᴛ ᴛʜᴇʏ’ᴅ ᴛᴀꜱᴛᴇ ʟɪᴋᴇ ɪꜰ ʜɪꜱ ᴍᴏᴜᴛʜ ᴡᴀꜱ ꜱᴛɪʟʟ ꜰᴜʟʟ ᴏꜰ ʜᴇʀ ᴏʀɢᴀꜱᴍ ꜰʀᴏᴍ ᴇᴀʀʟɪᴇʀ.”
“ʏᴏᴜ’ʀᴇ ᴛʜᴇ ᴍᴏꜱᴛ ɢʟᴏʀɪᴏᴜꜱ ꜱᴘᴇᴄɪᴍᴇɴ ᴏꜰ ᴀ ᴡᴏᴍᴀɴ ɪɴ ᴛʜᴇ ᴡᴏʀʟᴅ, ᴀɴᴅ ɪ’ᴍ ɴᴏᴛ ʙʟɪɴᴅ. ɪ’ᴠᴇ ᴀʟᴡᴀʏꜱ ꜱᴇᴇɴ ʏᴏᴜ ꜰᴏʀ ᴡʜᴀᴛ ʏᴏᴜ ᴀʀᴇ. ᴍɪɴᴇ.”
Review:
I loved this book! It was soo good, I loved how Jag and Sadie met and become such good friends before it even involved to anything more and how their dynamics work, how she’s so protective of him and how possessive he is of her, they just work so well and also- THAT LITTLE THING AT THE END?! Miss Pandora I’m so excited 🥹
This is a dark romance so please read trigger warnings before hand, your mental health matters most 🫶🏼
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Fav Quotes:
“ᴊᴀɢɢᴇʀ ᴋɴᴇᴡ ʙᴇᴛᴛᴇʀ ᴛʜᴀɴ ᴛᴏ ᴡᴀᴛᴄʜ ʜᴇʀ ɢᴇᴛ ᴜɴᴅʀᴇꜱꜱᴇᴅ, ɴᴏᴛ ᴛʀᴜꜱᴛɪɴɢ ʜɪᴍꜱᴇʟꜰ ᴛᴏ ᴋᴇᴇᴘ ʜɪꜱ ʜᴀɴᴅꜱ ᴏꜰꜰ ᴏꜰ ʜᴇʀ.”
“ʜɪꜱ ᴇʏᴇꜱ ᴡᴇʀᴇ ᴅᴀʀᴋᴇʀ ᴛʜᴀɴ ꜱʜᴇ’ᴅ ᴇᴠᴇʀ ꜱᴇᴇɴ ʙᴇꜰᴏʀᴇ, ᴀɴᴅ ᴡᴇᴛɴᴇꜱꜱ ᴀʟʀᴇᴀᴅʏ ʙᴇɢᴀɴ ᴛᴏ ꜱᴛʀɪᴘ ᴏꜰꜰ ʜᴇʀ ʀᴇᴅ ᴅʀᴇꜱꜱ, ʙʀɪɴɢɪɴɢ ɪᴛ ᴜᴘ ᴏᴠᴇʀ ʜᴇ�� ʜᴇᴀᴅ ᴀɴᴅ ᴛᴏꜱꜱɪɴɢ ɪᴛ ᴛᴏ ᴛʜᴇ ꜱɪᴅᴇ.”
“ɪ ᴋɴᴏᴡ ʏᴏᴜ ᴡᴀɴᴛᴇᴅ ᴀ ʙʟɪɴᴅꜰᴏʟᴅ, ʙᴜᴛ ɪ ᴡᴀɴᴛ ʏᴏᴜ ᴛᴏ ʟᴏᴏᴋ ᴀᴛ ᴍᴇ ᴛʜᴇ ꜰɪʀꜱᴛ ᴛɪᴍᴇ ɪ ᴍᴀᴋᴇ ʏᴏᴜ ᴄᴜᴍ ᴡɪᴛʜ ᴍʏ ᴍᴏᴜᴛʜ.”
“ʜᴇ ᴄᴏᴜʟᴅ ᴛᴀꜱᴛᴇ ʜɪᴍꜱᴇʟꜰ ᴏɴ ʜᴇʀ ʟɪᴘꜱ, ᴀɴᴅ ᴛʜᴇʀᴇ ᴡᴀꜱ ꜱᴏᴍᴇᴛʜɪɴɢ ꜰɪʟᴛʜʏ ᴀɴᴅ ᴀɴɪᴍᴀʟɪꜱᴛɪᴄ ᴀʙᴏᴜᴛ ɪᴛ ᴛʜᴀᴛ ɪᴛ ᴍᴀᴅᴇ ʜɪᴍ ᴄʀᴀᴠᴇ ᴛᴏ ᴋɴᴏᴡ ᴡʜᴀᴛ ᴛʜᴇʏ’ᴅ ᴛᴀꜱᴛᴇ ʟɪᴋᴇ ɪꜰ ʜɪꜱ ᴍᴏᴜᴛʜ ᴡᴀꜱ ꜱᴛɪʟʟ ꜰᴜʟʟ ᴏꜰ ʜᴇʀ ᴏʀɢᴀꜱᴍ ꜰʀᴏᴍ ᴇᴀʀʟɪᴇʀ.”
“ʏᴏᴜ’ʀᴇ ᴛʜᴇ ᴍᴏꜱᴛ ɢʟᴏʀɪᴏᴜꜱ ꜱᴘᴇᴄɪᴍᴇɴ ᴏꜰ ᴀ ᴡᴏᴍᴀɴ ɪɴ ᴛʜᴇ ᴡᴏʀʟᴅ, ᴀɴᴅ ɪ’ᴍ ɴᴏᴛ ʙʟɪɴᴅ. ɪ’ᴠᴇ ᴀʟᴡᴀʏꜱ ꜱᴇᴇɴ ʏᴏᴜ ꜰᴏʀ ᴡʜᴀᴛ ʏᴏᴜ ᴀʀᴇ. ᴍɪɴᴇ.”
Review:
I loved this book! It was soo good, I loved how Jag and Sadie met and become such good friends before it even involved to anything more and how their dynamics work, how she’s so protective of him and how possessive he is of her, they just work so well and also- THAT LITTLE THING AT THE END?! Miss Pandora I’m so excited 🥹
This is a dark romance so please read trigger warnings before hand, your mental health matters most 🫶🏼
September 23, 2024
A true friends to lovers story set in a biker bar and club rivalry
When you start reading Seprent Darling, you're drawn straight into the world of the Seprent Pit. Sadie and Jaggers are endearing, each with their own story that blends into one and a relationship that goes beyond the expectations of their families.
The pace of the book is such that you can't put it down until you've finished it. The tension between the characters is built up by a succession of events (and interruptions) leading up to the moment when they (and, let's be honest, we) can no longer resist. Let me tell you, Pandora knows how to write scenes from SMUT and they're absolutly flawless.
Pandora's writing makes it easy to identify with the characters, especially Sadie. Between an unfulfilling relationship and a self-denying attraction to her best friend, Sadie finds an escape with a mysterious stranger on an app.
And if you like protective MMCs who'll do anything for the ones they love, you'll love Jaggers.
In short, this is what I would consider a cosy book, a light (and hot) story that you can't get enough of. The book also has a real plot line and doesn't just revolve around the smut scenes.
When you start reading Seprent Darling, you're drawn straight into the world of the Seprent Pit. Sadie and Jaggers are endearing, each with their own story that blends into one and a relationship that goes beyond the expectations of their families.
The pace of the book is such that you can't put it down until you've finished it. The tension between the characters is built up by a succession of events (and interruptions) leading up to the moment when they (and, let's be honest, we) can no longer resist. Let me tell you, Pandora knows how to write scenes from SMUT and they're absolutly flawless.
Pandora's writing makes it easy to identify with the characters, especially Sadie. Between an unfulfilling relationship and a self-denying attraction to her best friend, Sadie finds an escape with a mysterious stranger on an app.
And if you like protective MMCs who'll do anything for the ones they love, you'll love Jaggers.
In short, this is what I would consider a cosy book, a light (and hot) story that you can't get enough of. The book also has a real plot line and doesn't just revolve around the smut scenes.
September 23, 2024
Espooky Mami’s ARC REVIEW 📕
Book rating: 4.5 / 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️ ⭐️
Spice level: 🌶️ 🌶️/ 5
I am normally not interested in friends to lovers but the way I ate this book up. I could not put it down and finished it in record breaking time. The banter, the steamy tension was practically rolling off of both of them had me eating it up like I was starved.
This book was so SCRUMPTIOUS the spice was spicinggggg! The sprinkled small touches and gestures throughout the book just had me wanting more! I love how Sadie was such an embodiment of dark feminine energy and really came into who she was. And the devotion and care Jagger gave her throughout the book was absolutely finger licking good. Their chemistry and friendship just fit so perfectly together.
I know this is a novella but wished we got more into the gang aspects and the darker side. This to me wasn’t a dark romance but would be a softer & light stepping into dark romance. It was fluffy, sweet and cute but also gave back bone and grit. I devoured it and will be recommending this! Perfect for a cleanser between books, and an intro into dark romance but not too heavy.
Absolutely phenomenal job.
I received this book as an ARC. And all opinions are truthful and are solely mine. Thank you for the opportunity! 🖤🫶🏻
Book rating: 4.5 / 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️ ⭐️
Spice level: 🌶️ 🌶️/ 5
I am normally not interested in friends to lovers but the way I ate this book up. I could not put it down and finished it in record breaking time. The banter, the steamy tension was practically rolling off of both of them had me eating it up like I was starved.
This book was so SCRUMPTIOUS the spice was spicinggggg! The sprinkled small touches and gestures throughout the book just had me wanting more! I love how Sadie was such an embodiment of dark feminine energy and really came into who she was. And the devotion and care Jagger gave her throughout the book was absolutely finger licking good. Their chemistry and friendship just fit so perfectly together.
I know this is a novella but wished we got more into the gang aspects and the darker side. This to me wasn’t a dark romance but would be a softer & light stepping into dark romance. It was fluffy, sweet and cute but also gave back bone and grit. I devoured it and will be recommending this! Perfect for a cleanser between books, and an intro into dark romance but not too heavy.
Absolutely phenomenal job.
I received this book as an ARC. And all opinions are truthful and are solely mine. Thank you for the opportunity! 🖤🫶🏻
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