Drakkon: Serpent Prince

Drakkon #2

by Maham Fatemi

He shattered her life without mercy.
Now she’s bound to him and planning his downfall.

The night the throne was usurped by the wicked emperor, Princess Biyu lost everything. Now she lives as an imprisoned remnant of a dead dynasty.

When her half-brother devises a plan to reclaim the throne, Biyu sees a chance to change her fate. But before she can act, she draws the attention of Nikator—the emperor’s most ruthless warrior.

He is merciless, cruel, and loyal to the usurper who stole the crown. And now, he's her personal bodyguard.

Desperate to shake him, Biyu turns to ancient magic. The spell was meant to drive him away. Instead, it binds them together in a cursed, unbreakable marriage.

She didn’t mean to tie her fate to a monster.
And he certainly didn’t ask to be chained to a prisoner.

Now locked in a union neither of them wanted, Biyu is thrust into a life of secrets and sabotage—spying for her brother, plotting against the throne, and doing everything she can to avoid Nikator’s suspicion.

But the longer they are bound, the harder it becomes to separate hatred from heat, and vengeance from the pull of something deeper.

She came to reclaim power.
But in a palace ruled by blood and lies, the most dangerous enemy may be the one who stands beside her.

In a world where loyalty is lethal and love is a curse, surrendering her heart could cost her everything.



Serpent Prince is a standalone novel and the second installment in the Drakkon series. It can be read alone, but for a better reader experience, it’s best to read the series in order. Serpent Prince is perfect for fans of enemies to lovers, forbidden romance, and wickedly beautiful villains.

Genres: Fantasy, Romance

472 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 2, 2025

About the author

Maham Fatemi is an avid reader, writer, and cat lover. When she’s not obsessing over her cats, you can find her skimming a new cookbook, reading comics, or drinking an unhealthy number of oat-milk lattes. She writes epic fantasy and romantic fantasy. Maham lives in the Chicagoland area with her husband, son, and cats. For information about new releases, signed books, and her newsletter, visit her website at mahamfatemi.com

Reviews

[Ceacea · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Netgalley, Gazzelle and Moon Press, and Maham Fatemi for this eARC.
Genre: Fantasy Romance
⭐️3.5/5
🌶1/5
🧠 3/10
Cliffhanger: N/A
Noteworthy: Book 2 in an interconnected standalone series. Single first-person POV. You do not have to read book 1 but it would give you backstory for this book. Content warnings for on page attempted SA. Publication date is 12/2/2025.

This is an Asian inspired fantasy romance focused on the rise of a new Emperor and dynasty. The dynamics of what happens to his political opponents including family and children is explored in this book. It's background level but integral to this story at it's core. First and foremost it is an enemies to lovers, forbidden romance with a heavy power imbalance. The MMC Nik is the FMC Biyu's captor and her guard. This makes for incredibly hard fought trust and a lot of tension. I did like the MMC in this story. We don't get his POV here but trust me when I say you feel all his emotions even without it. The FMC was a struggle for me. She is young and the definition of sheltered. As a princess of the previous dynasty, she is very soft and filled to the brim with anxiety. Being inside her head is painful at times but somewhat understandable considering what she's been through. I try to allow grace for characters with zero life experience, but it was not always easy with Biyu. To be fair I got the impression that she didn't like herself very much at times. The side characters are great, especially a certain brother to our MMC. 😉

Overall I love the concept here. I just wanted better character growth for the FMC. But the world is really cool and if you're looking for something a little different, try this series!

[Megan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thanks to the author for the ARC! This was my first book from them, and I ended up enjoying it.

I liked the setting a lot, but the pacing felt a little off for me, so it took a while before I was fully into it. (I think this is a me issue)

The FMC is a sheltered princess who’s been through a ton in her life, I wish we’d seen more growth from her character. The MMC is a morally grey, touch her and die vibe, and the enemies to lovers trope is there for fans of that.

All in all a fun read.

[Annie (Houseofbooksandboardgames) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked this book significantly more than the first, mostly because I felt like there was a lot more character growth between the couple and as well as acknowledging the complicated power dynamics.

I definitely appreciated the continued Asian-inspired fantasy world building.

I would recommend this book to anyone who likes a bodyguard romance and an accidental magic marriage.

Thanks to Maham Fatemi for the ARC!

[SpicyreadswithAnne · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Drakkon series honestly snuck up on me. I went in thinking, okay… enemies to lovers, scary emperor, innocent farm girl –l've seen this before. I even rolled my eyes a little at first, not gonna lie. But then?? I don’t even know when it happened. Somewhere between their first conversation and the scenes where he looks at her like he's some sort of ruthless emperor–I was gone.
The tension was so intense and so insane... it made me so restless. I'd finish a chapter and be like "okay just one more" and then suddenly it's 2am and my eyes are burning but I can't sleep because WHAT IS GOING TO HAPPEN NEXT?? My heart actually skipped at some parts. Like I had to pause and just stare at the wall for a second.
And yeah, the setup sounds familiar. But it didn't feel predictable. That’s the weird part. It felt overwhelming. I kept switching between "I don't trust him" and "wait… why is he kind of soft right now?"It had me stressed in the best way.
Now Book One? The push and pull between them is literally what kept me reading. Like I swear I was more into their arguments than the actual plot at some points. She wants NOTHING to do with him, and honestly? I felt that. Every time he walked into a room I was like "girl, you beta run while you still can." I rolled my eyes at him so many times in the beginning because he really does come off as cold and dangerous and just… ugh.
But then he’d have these tiny moments – and it wasn’t even big stuff — like that one scene where he notices she's upset but pretends he doesn't care? Why did that get to me. I was screaming internally. Because you can tell he's fighting whatever he's feeling and it's almost annoying how obvious it is except to them.
And oh my gosh it's SLOW. Like painfully slow. I spent half the book groaning. Just admit it already?? I stayed up way too late waiting for some kind of confession that never came when I expected it which was sad. But at the same time… I weirdly loved that it took forever. The way he looks at her. Those tiny touches. The silence that felt louder than words. Those tiny things had me smiling at my phone like an idiot at 1:47am.
Then just when I’m fully in my feelings, the story throws danger back in. Political tension, threats, all of that. It’s not soft or cute for long. It’s stressful. In a good way. I’d be swooning one minute and then panicking the next because something always goes wrong. I honestly felt exhausted but in the best possible way. They’re such a mess, and I was right there with them.
Book Two totally threw me off at first because the perspective changed. I wasn't ready for it, honestly. Suddenly I'm seeing everything through this princess from a dynasty I barely know and this warrior guy from the emperor's side – and wow, it hits differently. I kept thinking, "Wait, what’s going on?" and then… I was hooked again.
Their dynamic starts off all suspicious, like, I could feel the tension. Sometimes I wanted to scream at them both for being so stubborn, but then there were these tiny little moments – a glance, a word, a pause – that made me actually… laugh? Or smile awkwardly at my phone in the middle of the night. The attraction grows slowly, which I hated and loved at the same time. Half the time I'm groaning, "JUST ADMIT IT ALREADY,"and the other half I’m like, "okay, fine, savor it, savor it."
The whole freedom vs responsibility thing hit me harder than I expected. Both of them are trapped in different ways, and you can feel it in every scene. It made me think, like… what would I do in their shoes? And then there’s the romance, which is messy, awkward, full of tension, and honestly so much more believable because of it. The dialogue has these tiny sparks of wit that made me laugh out loud, and I loved seeing them slowly change, but not perfectly. It all takes forever, but that’s what makes it kinda perfect.
Yeah, it's got all the usual dark fantasy romance stuff… but somehow? I didn't even care. I was hooked anyways. The world-building doesn’t bury you, and the relationships actually get room to breathe. I don’t know… it just stuck with me way more than I expected.
Okay, so overall… Drakkon? I don’t even know where to start. It's gripping, yeah, but also kind of exhausting in the best way. Like, my heart was racing half the time and I was low-key panicking over every little thing. The tension is everywhere – danger, rivalry, and then all this underlying slow-burn romance that just makes you go "ugh, stop teasing me already."
If you're into that kind of slow-burn stuff, where feelings are lurking under all the drama and chaos, this series is totally worth it. I stayed up way too late just reading because I couldn't put it down, even though my brain was yelling at me to sleep.
Sure, it hits some familiar dark fantasy romance notes, but honestly? And yet… somehow, It still felt fresh to me. The characters, the world, the tiny moments – they just stick with you. I don't know, it's hard to explain, but it works in a that is messy. It’s emotional. And honestly? So satisfying I can’t even explain.

[Ella Laurenti · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read an ARC of this book from the author.

TROPES:
✨bodyguard romance
✨asian-inspired fantasy
✨court politics
✨enemies-to-lovers
✨magical/cursed marriage
✨food descriptions that will make you hungry (is this a real trope? It is now)

She wriggled her wrist to make a point. "You have me pinned to this door like I'm a commoner you wish to bed."
"Is that what you are?"
"A commoner?" Her eyes narrower. "Or someone you wish to bed?"

In Drakkon: Serpent Prince, our FMC Biyu is a princess of a fallen dynasty who is being held "hostage" by the usurper Emperor (I didn't read the first book in the series, and this book does stand alone, but I think you would get some better background on the Emperor himself if you did). Some pretty harrowing s*it happens to her during her captivity (warning: including allusions to SA), and her future seems pretty bleak, always one moment away from the Emperor potentially deciding to end her, when her half-brother proposes a scheme that could mean their freedom (and regaining their power). And in the process of carrying out their plans, Biyu crosses paths with the Emperor's fearsome warrior, Nikator, who decides she's suspicious enough (and her current guards incompetent/slimy enough) to warrant him becoming her personal bodyguard. Desperate to shake him, Biyu attempts a spell that instead... marries them. YEP.

“Let me make this very clear, since you don’t seem to understand”— she could tell he tried to keep his voice flat and neutral; it was belied by something darker, something that just barely peeked out from his carefully selected words. Like he was trying not to terrify her, but was failing. “When I dream of you, I don’t think about hurting you, Princess Biyu. And when I’m with you, not once have I wanted to hurt you.”

The courtly intrigue and political sabotage are a highlight of this book. It feels a lot like watching a historical k-drama. Biyu reads a bit sheltered, a bit blind at times, but her character flaws are believable in the optics of someone who was a) raised as a princess and b) as a teenager, pretty much locked in a bedroom rapunzel-style. The drama around the different dynasties, rebellions, etc made me think of the idea that history is written by the victors, and the heartbreak that comes from war.
OH, also, the food. I LOOOVE when characters eat some good food in novels (niche, I know).

“He pushed one of the plates holding a stack of pan-fried sticky rice cakes with the center darkened with the red bean paste filling.
She licked her lips. “What … what are you doing.”
“You’ve been eyeing it for a while.”

The relationship between Biyu and Nikator will keep you simmering for most of the book. It starts with a knife to the throat, continues with some VERY LITERAL touch her and die moments, and then is hot-and-cold-and-hot-again, to the point that I wanted to scream at them to just kissssss.

“I’ll be right back,” he said, unfurling his massive body to his full, impressive height. “Can I trust you not to break anything else? Notably yourself?”
“I’m not going to break,” she muttered, suddenly embarrassed that he had witnessed her outburst. She sniffled and wiped her face with the back of her free hand. “But if you don’t hurry, I might try to run away from this room.”
It was a lousy joke. She wasn’t actually in the mood to try to traipse through the halls and flee. Honestly, she was just too exhausted and too mortified to be anywhere but beneath her covers.
The corner of Nikator’s soft mouth rose. “There’s nowhere you can run where I won’t find you, Princess Biyu.”

Obviously, Biyu and Nikator don't think it's a good idea to let others know of their magical marriage, so there's a lot of tension sparking from that, especially when another "potential suitor" (not a good one, mind you) comes into the picture.

“For one, he wouldn’t stop at talking, Princess.” Nikator rearranged her hair so it fell over her back once more. He leaned even closer, the intoxicating scent of ocean breeze, summer, and vanilla spices filling her senses. He was like a sweet nectar she wanted to drink greedily . “I wouldn’t let him go further than that. If he so much as spoke to you, I would cut his tongue off. If he dared to kiss you? I would slice his lips off his face. And if that fucking sword of his grew near you? I would kill him ten times over. Because, Biyu, everyone might think that he is your intended”—his voice lashed out like a whip, heated and lethal—“but you are my wife and I will not stand to have another man covet what is mine.”

And then, of course, there's the YEARNING we come to see as he finally starts to let go... TOP TIER!

Thanks so much to the author for the complimentary pre-released copy. This review is voluntary, and all opinions are my own.

[Rainelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

My fellow readers you have got to believe me when I say that this romantic story is an epic read that melted my heart in every way. You have two people who have been thrown together by the powerful hands of the menacing Emperor called, Drakkon Muyang. One of them serves under him as a son and a Ruthless warrior or mainly killer. Feared by all who crosses his path. And the other is a pond to the Emperor’s sinister power play, who holds a gift that must be contained at all times.
But that’s easier said than done. At the early onset of reading this story I found myself very interested in this powe play love story. Mainly from the start of Biyu’s revealing narration of what she is going through behind the Emperor’s walls I was hooked. As a young woman with no companion or male family member to protector her, the story Biyu shares is scary, humiliating, and terrifying. Can Biyu find an ally to back her when she calls for them? Well having siblings who are in the same precarious situation as you are, kind of throws your mission on a detour.
Biyu’s sister Liqin is an ice cold princess whom I was praying for Biyu to lay on a hard, sting slap. A slap that stings so badly that Yat-sen could feel it all the way down in the dungeons. Lipin is a person that makes you want to accidentally bump into her, while you take your evening strolls along the bridge. Thank the heavens for brothers right? Oh did you forget that this was a fantasy love story?!
Yat-sen is Biyu’s younger brother. His character I was curious about and at the same time suspicious of his intentions. To me Yat-sen was like this phantom who showed up when you least expected him to. Why couldn’t he just be like all other young brothers his age and go play his video games with his friends. Nooo that was to boring for him.
He wanted to play dungeons and battle war games while in listing the help of a princess who could be friend or foe. Biyu finds herself as a pond in the political war game set up by the Emperor. During her stay there she either finds her-self as a victim or a prisoner to the unimaginable twisted games that are played in the kingdom. Reading all that Biyu has been inflicted by was an emotional read that had me hoping that she would rise up from the harrowing challenges. As the Emperor needed answers, Nikator goes in search of them only to find a bread crumb that leads to Biyu’s door.
Literally to her door. Once these two circling worlds collide together all hell breaks loose. Throwing this love story into a possessive, she’s mine touch her and die romantic tale. Cinderella this is not. Nikator is portrayed has a cold hearted warrior who seems unmovable or breakable. He’s the strong force that can annihilate combatants with one swing of his fist.
One wonders could anyone penetrate that hard exterior were he can trap you with his wicked smile. Biyu is the pawn who is more intellectual than the Emperor, Nikator and Yat-sen put together. There are times where I rooted for her to beat villains at their own game. Then there were times I was wondering what the heck is she doing? Stop thinking to much and just do it.!
The best part of Biyu is when Nikator sees the light in her. The romance that ignites within the two is ablaze by passionate embraces to sensuous to tell in just one sentence. The story around there romance is a page turner that is exciting, a little funny, emotional, daring, loving, and desirable. Their story pulls you into the challenging situations that puts their trust and love to the test. I am very honored to have had the opportunity to read this beautiful love story.
I give this book two snaps and a Wu Jian I was so looking forward having that talk with a certain warrior. Well there’s always next time. Until next time my fellow readers. Read on! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Glitched.Havok · Rating 4 out of 5]

I dove into this book thinking I was ready for palace intrigue. I was not, this story didn’t just grab me but instead it wrapped its claws around my ribs and squeezed until I couldn’t tell if I wanted to scream, cry, or throw my Kindle into the nearest ceremonial fire pit.

Because from page one, he shattered her life without mercy. Princess Biyu loses everything the night the throne is stolen, and that grief bleeds straight through the pages. She’s living as the last echo of a dead dynasty, and honestly? You feel that hollowness. You feel that ache and yet…. she still reaches for hope. Then when her half brother hands her a chance to reclaim the throne, she takes it, even with her hands shaking.

But here’s where my frustration came in and where I realized this book was going to hurt me in ways I didn’t expect.

Biyu, as a main character, felt so unbelievably blind at times. I wanted to grab her shoulders and shake sense into her. She moved through the palace with this heartbreaking mixture of innocence and denial, and I kept yelling, “GIRL, PLEASE! CONNECT THE DOTS.” and I mean that with love, because her softness is real, and her fear is raw, but my God she made me want to pace the room.

And then…. Nikator.
The emperor’s most ruthless warrior. The monster assigned to be her personal bodyguard. The man who is equal parts cold steel and quiet devastation.

Every time he stepped onto the page, I perked up like a woman with no self preservation. He is merciless, loyal to the usurper, and absolutely the last person Biyu should trust but then Maham Fatemi wrote him with this impossible tension.... one minute he is arctic, and the next he’s molten. I swear he has more mood swings than me during a caffeine crash, and yet every shift made perfect sense for who he was: a weapon learning how to feel.

Then the spell happens.
A spell she cast to get rid of him.
A spell that instead binds them in a cursed marriage neither of them wants.

That moment broke something in me, two people on opposite sides of a war, chained together by fate and ancient magic, forced to share breath and secrets and space…. all while hatred simmers and something softer tries to crawl through the cracks.The blurb promised hatred burning into heat, and it delivered.

Not gently.
Not romantically.
Brutally. Confusingly. Heart-wrenchingly.

This book is truly a palace of lies, blood loyalty, sabotage, and emotional whiplash. I felt like I was watching an entire season of a high budget historical drama; twists, betrayals, gazes that linger too long, and enough tension to cut through steel. There were moments that made me clench my jaw, moments that made me cry, and moments where I had to set the book down and just breathe.

I got frustrated, deeply frustrated, by the back and forth between them. Biyu with her naïveté and Nikator with his hot-cold storm of conflicting desires. It was more chaotic than my own internal monologue, but weirdly? I loved that. I loved the mess. I loved the emotional tug of war. I loved that these characters weren’t neat or easy or simple.

They pushed me. They irritated me.
And still, I cared.
Still, I rooted for them through every tear and every cruel twist of fate.

By the end, I wasn’t angry, just drained in the best possible way.
Heart a little bruised.
Feelings all over the floor.
And somehow more invested than I meant to be.

So yes—4 stars for making me flustered, frustrated, emotional, and obsessed enough to want more.

If loyalty is lethal and love is a curse, then this book is the dagger that cuts deep and makes you feel every inch of it.

[bookishpadawan · Rating 4 out of 5]

▸Fantasy romance
▸Enemies to lovers tension
▸Bodyguard romance vibes
▸Cursed magical marriage
▸A slow descent into obsession (his)
▸A heroine with vengeance in her heart
▸A morally grey, sword-wielding love interest
▸Heart wrenching betrayals and ancient magic

♥️♥️Thank you to Maham Fatemi for including me again on her ARC team, all opinions are my own♥️♥️

Princess Biyu wants to have a free life rather than living in a palace like a prisoner. When her younger brother, Yatsen, plans a coup against Drakkon Muyang, she unwillingly agrees to the plan, but before Biyu can act on the plan, her movements are watched by Nikator, who then becomes her bodyguard. Biyu tries to attack him with her magic, but accidentally, the magic she uses is a marriage bond, a sacred bond that will last for eternity, where if Biyu dies, Nikator also dies, and vice versa. Reluctantly bonded with Nikator, the longer she knows him and the people around him, the more difficult it is for Biyu to do her part to overthrow the throne...when no matter what happens, in the end, her choice is to run or be executed for committing treason.

She wriggled her wrist to make a point. "You have me pinned to this door like I'm a commoner you wish to bed."
"Is that what you are?"
"A commoner?" Her eyes narrower. "Or someone you wish to bed?"

I like the banter between Biyu and Nikator and how their relationship slowly warms up since being tied by the bond. this book has a good amount of worldbuilding and I like the storyline, it can make you hate the characters, love the characters, get to know the characters, feel their pain, their love and their heartache over the betrayal...😢

The corner of Nikator's soft mouth rose. "There's nowhere you can run where I won't find you, Princess Biyu."

But oh my...this story is really heartbreaking, all because of Biyu's naivety. while I was reading this, I really wanted to yell at her to wake her up and make her think properly. but I kinda understand her way of thinking. She was locked up for years in the palace without interacting with many people, the only one who often interacted with her was her sister, who was mean to her. and especially after she witnessed her family being brutally murdered before her own eyes...everything made it hard for her to trust others and made her always live in fear. yet still, Biyu...many people were hurt and died because of you and I don't know how Muyang can be so kindhearted here towards her.

But I quite enjoyed the way everything went down though, this book is still an enjoyable read that ends up nicely at the end. Biyu and Nikator's story will keep you hooked from start to finish. If you love fantasy romance with angst, betrayal, and a little spice, this is a must read!✨

[Belinda Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading Drakkon: Serpent Prince felt like tumbling headfirst into a world that was equal parts enchanting, unsettling, and utterly addictive. ✨🐍 From the very first chapter, the writing had this hypnotic pull—as if the story itself was whispering come closer, and I absolutely surrendered to it. 💭💫

Princess Biyu’s life had already been shattered when her throne was stolen, and watching her navigate life as a prisoner of a dead dynasty broke my heart. 💔 Her desperation, her hope, her mistakes… it all made her feel so painfully human. She took a while to grow on me, but by the end, I was fiercely rooting for her. And then came Nikator—the emperor’s ruthless, merciless warrior who single-handedly derailed all my sanity. 😭🔥

What started as Biyu’s attempt to get rid of him with ancient magic (girl, SAME 😂) turned into a cursed, unbreakable marriage that neither of them wanted. The tension, the anger, the forced proximity, the emotional unraveling… it all simmered beautifully. Their dynamic blurred every line between hate and desire, vengeance and longing, loyalty and betrayal. 🖤🔥

And Nik? Oh, Nikator.
Sweet, attentive, devastatingly protective, loyal to a fault, and deliciously possessive. The man walked onto the page and I immediately said yes, hello, I’m yours now. 😩❤️ He slogged through every one of Biyu’s schemes with patience that deserved a Nobel Prize. Their banter? Sharp. Addictive. Utterly perfection. ⚔️💋

The plot unfolded with palace intrigue, secrets, rebellions, and the constant tension of being watched. 🏯👁️‍🗨️ Every revelation had me gasping, and every quiet moment between them had my heart doing embarrassing things. And the found family element? It wrecked me. 😭💞 Their circle—scarred, loyal, imperfect, and fiercely protective—gave the story so much heart.

And can we TALK about this line from Nik?!
“The colors of this world are faded without you… But you light everything up with a shine I have never seen before.”
I melted. Fully. Dramatically. Into the floor. 😭✨

🌶️ Perfect For Fans Of…
👑 Enemies to Lovers
🐍 Wickedly Beautiful Villains
💔 Forbidden Romance
✨ Forced Marriage / Cursed Bond
🔥 Slow Burn Tension
💥 Palace Intrigue + Betrayal
💘 Cat & Mouse Chemistry
💞 Soft MMC × Scheming FMC
🛡️ Protective, Devoted Hero
💫 Myth-Touched Worlds
🐉 The “I Will Burn the World For You” vibes

I laughed, I gasped, I swooned, and by the end, I was a puddle on the floor. 🤦🏻‍♀️🔥 This story left me haunted in the best way—heavy, hopeful, aching, full.

A huge thank you to the author and BookSirens for the ARC opportunity. 💛📚

[KMart Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story drops you straight into a crumbling dynasty, a seized throne, and a princess living under the shadow of a regime that seemingly plans to use her as a political tool. When Biyu tries to claw back even a sliver of control, she ends up accidentally binding herself to the emperor’s deadliest warrior in a cursed marriage neither of them wanted. From there, it’s all secrets, political danger, and a slow slide from animosity into something far more complicated.

I loved the melodrama of it all. The betrayals, the guilt, the scheming; every emotional blowup hit perfectly. Biyu’s life is brutal and lonely, and the book really captures what it means to be used as a symbol rather than treated like a person. Nikator absolutely charmed me. He’s protective without being overbearing, loyal to a fault, and the kind of quietly possessive that makes an enemies-to-lovers arc sing. I really liked seeing how his siblings shed light on who he is beneath the armor; it rounded him out and gave their relationship more texture. And that yearning-from-afar vibe? Delicious. Their slow-burn romance is full of emotion and tense, intimate moments that sneak up on you. I’m completely obsessed with them as a couple.

That said, I did have a few problems. The heroine trend in this series leans toward infantilization, and while it technically fits Biyu’s background as a sheltered princess, it’s not my favorite. I could excuse it here, but I’m hoping for a more grounded, confident heroine lead next time. I also found myself annoyed that Nikator only fixates on Biyu’s beauty; it’s sweet at first, but eventually, I wanted him to acknowledge literally anything else about what makes her special and why he fell in love with her.

Still, the palace intrigue is gripping, the stakes feel real, and the Asian-inspired dynasty politics worked well. It deeply informs the tension and the impossible position Biyu is trapped in. The power imbalance is heavy, the romance is forbidden, and the slow-burn payoff is absolutely worth it. Despite a few character quirks that didn’t fully work for me, I had a great time with this.

Thanks so much to the author for the complimentary pre-released copy. This review is voluntary, and all opinions are my own.

[Hinna · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.25/5 stars

We have our tropes: enemies to lovers, forbidden romance, and a fun, cursed marriage (literally). If you’re a fan of Chinese dramas, I think this hits all the right marks. You have your drama and high-stakes moments, but you also have some moments with their romance that drag on.

Biyu: Our princess lives as a prisoner with only her title to defend her. I did wish she had more character development by the end, because she had so many opportunities to grow and make smarter decisions and just.... did not... I can understand how she lived a life of privilege and that her environment shaped her character, but again, she grew as a love interest and not as a character imo. Her smartest decision was chucking an apple at his head lol. I just felt that, despite this book being on the longer side, there was some wasted potential for Biyu's character. Which is a real shame because I had many moments of cheering our girl on and genuinely enjoying her character!

Nikator: The emperor’s warrior. His character fell flat for me by the end, but I did have some heart eye moments! His quiet yearning and the way he protected her were top tier. And come to find he fell first!! Since I didn't read book 1, as this book is an interconnected stand-alone, I have to assume that Nikator might have had certain moments from book 1 that would have made me enjoy him more in book 2. We definitely get his backstory in this book, but otherwise no character development from him either. He just quietly (not so quietly) yearns for our girlie and fights some baddies.

Side note: The author has a way of bringing food to life. Every time Biyu sat down to have a meal, I felt like I was eating with her!!

Overall, this book probably could have been shortened by about 150 pages, but I still had fun! I was rooting for our couple and was tearing my hair out when they kept denying each other lol. Hit all my favorite tropes, and fits every criterion of a romantasy.

Thank you to the author for this ARC! All honest thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Iqra Bi · Rating 5 out of 5]

MAHAM COOKED! I AM TELLING Y'LL, SHE COOKED. CAUSE WHAT DO YOU MEAN THE CHARACTERS ARE ACCIDENTALLY MARRIED AND MY GOD—NIKATOR?!?! GOODNESS THIS BOOK PHYSICALLY. ❤️‍🩹

Now, calming down myself. I finished reading this book just yesterday evening. And the last few chapters actually hurt, like physically hurt. And will I read it again. Yep, absolutely!

The book starts with a start. I meant the actually point on why the FL hates the ML and the Emperor and her hate is kind of justified. Because I don’t think so anyone would like to live as a prisoner in their own home. But FL got some real guts to go against the Emperor and plan his execution. I gotta say, she is quite savage.

But the ML, God the things he does for FL. Like he actually fell in love when FL burned him, I mean Gurl!🤭 Not only that but the way Author actually described the their feelings. The characters deserved that slow burning (not me though, crying in single self). Anyways, 💅 but what actually hooked me onto this book, apart from the slowburn🥲, was their banter. Yes, they argued and you gotta trust me when I say a lot. This book gave me a whole vibe of watching a Chinese drama. And I will be so happy read other characters book.

I am obsessed with this standalone series. And I guarantee you, you won't be able to deny the MLs pull in both the book. Whether it be Drakkon or Nikator. And somewhere in the book Biyu reminded me of Daiyyu, too. They are so sweet.

All in all, I loved this, and so will you. So I will like to kick to Maham's website so that you can buy this one and actually read this. Because this one is worth the pain!🤌🏻🤭✨️🤧

And if you love Chinese historical drama you gotta read this one!🧧

[Pryanka · Rating 5 out of 5]

I recently dove into Serpent Prince: Drakkon, and wow—it was an absolute rollercoaster from start to finish! 🐉💥

From the very first chapter, the story grips you. There’s this perfect mix of palace intrigue, danger, and morally gray heroes that keeps you flipping pages faster than you can blink. Biyu immediately stood out—she’s clever, resilient, and complex, navigating trauma and high-stakes situations with grit and determination.

Nikator is intense, unpredictable, and keeps you guessing. His bond with Biyu is complicated and emotional, full of tension, unexpected care, and moments that make your heart race. Every twist made me gasp, cheer, or just sit there trying to process what just happened!

The plot moves at a thrilling pace, balancing intrigue, rebellion, and jaw-dropping revelations with character growth.

And the ending—oh my gosh. It’s satisfying, emotional, and wraps the story up beautifully, highlighting trust, loyalty, and bonds that feel earned. Biyu’s growth as a character is empowering, and the emotional depth of her relationships leaves a lasting impression.

Honestly, Serpent Prince: Drakkon isn’t just a fantasy—it’s about courage, choices, and connections that define us. If you love dark fantasy, strong female leads, and morally complex heroes, this book absolutely deserves a spot on your shelf.

⸻

Tropes You’ll Love:

• Strong FMC 💪

• Dark romance with moral complexity 🖤

• Power duo dynamics ⚔️

• Forbidden/tense bonds ❤️‍🔥

• Political intrigue & palace drama 👑

• Rebellious protagonists vs. the system 🔥

• Emotional growth under pressure 🌪️

[Cindy Arnold · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book Review: Drakkon: Serpent Prince by Maham Fatemi
If you’re searching for a fantasy novel that effortlessly weaves together romance, intrigue, and a vividly imagined world, Drakkon: Serpent Prince by Maham Fatemi is a must-read. This interconnected standalone shines in the enemies-to-lovers genre, offering both familiarity and fresh storytelling that will enchant fans and new readers alike.
The royal female protagonist is a standout—her strength, intelligence, and agency make her impossible not to root for. Across from her stands a morally grey male lead, whose complexity and internal struggles add layers of nuance and unpredictability to the narrative. Their dynamic is electric, brimming with tension, gradual trust, and undeniable chemistry that elevates the classic trope.
What truly sets this novel apart is its lush Asian-inspired fantasy setting. The world-building is immersive, drawing readers into a landscape rich with culture, tradition, and magic. The intricate political landscape and societal norms add stakes and realism, making the characters’ journeys all the more compelling.
Both leads undergo remarkable growth, grappling with duty, desire, and personal demons in ways that feel authentic and earned. Compared to book one, Serpent Prince offers a deeper emotional resonance and more sophisticated character arcs, rewarding readers with a sense of progression and maturity.
In short, Drakkon: Serpent Prince is a wonderful standalone that delivers a satisfying blend of romance, adventure, and introspection—perfect for anyone who loves their fantasy with heart, depth, and a dash of royal drama.

[brook.talks.books · Rating 4 out of 5]

《 ARC REVIEW 》

"A thread that ties two flames as one
Bound in blood, in death, we burn."

☆☆☆☆

I just finished ARC reading Drakkon: Serpent Prince by Maham Fatemi, which is the second book in the Drakkon series! It's technically a standalone, but will make much more sense if you read Drakkon: Empire's Curse and Dynasty of the Wicked beforehand!

This one follows Princess Biyu, and Nikator, the most ruthless warrior and Muyang's right hand man. Emperor Drakkon Muyang overtook Biyu's father's throne, and she has hated him ever since. She is kept imprisoned in the palace, with nothing but her title, and has to watch the emperor take over everything she knows and loves. Her life becomes more upended for her when her brother comes up with a coup to overthrow Muyang, and she gets sucked into his plan. But, with Nikator as her guard, she must be sneaky not to get caught.... and definitely not fall in love with him.

Biyu and Nikator's banter is so great, but it gets a little repetitive at times. The beginning and ending are amazing, but the middle sort of took me out of the story. I feel like a lot of it could have been condensed because it's a very long book! I loved Nikator's character growth, but Biyu just felt too naïve. Other than that, it's an entertaining read as always, and the ending was truly the best part!

You'll love this book if you like:
- Bodyguard & Princess
- Magical & cursed marriage
- Enemies to lovers
- Coup to overthrow an emperor
- Amazing banter
- Cool magic system
- Only one horse

This book just got released on December 2nd, and is available to read now! A huge thank you to Maham Fatemi for the opportunity to read this ARC!

[Autumn Estrada · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Read: Thank you so much to NetGalley, Gazelle and Moon Press, LLC, and most of all Maham Fatemi for giving me the opportunity to read this wonderful new debut romantasy!
I was thoroughly OBSESSED with this book while reading it. This is definitely a book to be talked about!
Quotes:
“ I would have set the world at your feet if only you had asked! “
“ if he so much as spoke to you, I would cut his tongue off. If he dared to kiss you? I would slice his lips off his face. And if that fucking sword of his grew near you? I would kill him ten times over “
If those two quotes alone don’t do it for you, then idk what to tell you.
This book had me at the EDGE of my seat. It was candy to me, I couldn’t stop feeding from it.
Tropes:
- prisoner princess
- enemies to lovers back to enemies back to lovers
- guard and prisoner
- protector
- red head mmc
- fated bonds
- familial ties
- sparring
( so many more )
I loved this relationship that brewed between Biyi and Nikator. And NIKATOR as an MMC did NOT disappoint. He was so protective and loved her so well for a morally grey character. Princess Biyu did annoy me at times with her crying, a lot. But she also went through ALOT in this book. The last 75% of the book was gut-wrenching for me and I feel as the reader I went on an emotional roller coaster with these two characters! Low on the spice scale but HIGH on the yearning and the banter scale. I really enjoyed this read and cannot wait to talk more about it! Counting down the days until release day! Amazing work!

[Dishari Sinha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Biyu and Nikator began as enemies, yet they were always drawn to each other. Both are beautiful in their own ways, and both struggled against that attraction—Biyu through fear, and Nik through hatred. Their story is a classic example of the enemies-to-lovers trope done right. What I loved most about the book is how both characters grow while falling in love.

There is betrayal on Biyu’s part, and at one point I was genuinely angry with her for trying to kill Muang. But in the end, love conquers all. Biyu truly loved Nik and had to prove that love through her choices and actions.

I especially liked Muang in this story. He is a true emperor and, most likely, a wonderful uncle. His test was brutal, but it was also necessary—to test the depth of love. He looked out for his family and raised Nik as his own, which made me admire him even more in this book.

I deeply felt for Biyu as a prisoner of war and for the slow realization that Muang did care for her—giving her comfort and luxury even when she had no freedom of her own. The progression of the story and Biyu’s character development were beautifully portrayed by the author, and the ending could not have been sweeter, especially after the test they endured.

I would love to read more about the other members of Peccata and sincerely hope Maham Fatemi continues this series.

[Megan LeeAnn Sporleder · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading Serpent Prince felt like stepping into a world that was equal parts enchanting and unsettling. The writing has this hypnotic rhythm that pulled me in right away—like I was being coaxed deeper into a story I couldn’t quite predict. What I loved most was how the atmosphere lingered; even when I wasn’t actively reading, I kept thinking about the imagery and the way certain moments made me feel.

Emotionally, it was a rollercoaster. There were passages that made me pause just to sit with the weight of them, and others that had me grinning at the sheer audacity of the characters. It’s one of those books that doesn’t just tell a story—it makes you feel the tension, the beauty, and the unease all at once.

I’ll admit, there were times I wanted more clarity, but honestly, the ambiguity added to the charm. It’s the kind of book that leaves space for you to interpret, to wrestle with what it’s really saying. That’s rare, and I appreciated it.

Overall, Serpent Prince is less about racing through a plot and more about surrendering to an experience. If you’re into stories that blur the line between myth and reality, and you enjoy being a little haunted after you close the book, this one is worth your time.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Irma *Irma The Book Whisperer* · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh, Nikator, you sexy villain, you. Yumm!

A dethroned princess, a ruthless imperial warrior, and a spell that binds two enemies into an unwanted marriage. Drakkon: Serpent Prince is a story filled with danger, secrets, and forbidden tension that builds from the very first chapter...

Be prepared to fall in love with Nikator. Because you will. It is unavoidable. This book had me in a complete chokehold from the moment he stepped onto the page!

Of course, the story wouldn't be as phenomenal without Biyu. She is timid, soft, a little naive, and incredibly goodhearted. And omg, the troubles she put Nikator through. I laughed, gasped, and thought this man deserved a medal for surviving her schemes.

Through it all, Nikator was the best man he could be. Sweet, attentive, protective, loyal, and yes, deliciously possessive. The author threw in a certain scumbag just to spice things up. Thank goodness Nikator took care of the situation.

"The colors of this world are faded without you. This palace, this court, this room is bleak and black and dreary. But you light everything up with a shine I have never seen before."

Their banter was everything. Sharp, clever, and addictive, it kept the story fun even as the plot explored dark and heavy themes. And trust me, this palace intrigue is full of twists, turns, and shocking revelations.

The romance stole my heart. Their irresistible cat and mouse energy, forced closeness, and constant push and pull created a tension that practically hummed off the pages. The premise is simple, but the emotional layers and conflicts make the story shine.

Fierce, slow burning, and completely unforgettable.

I am swept off my feet.

[Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ARC Review — Drakkon: Serpent Prince by Maham Fatemi

The second book in the Drakkon series (and totally readable as a standalone!) delivers an Asian-inspired fantasy full of magic, myth, and one of the best slow-build character transformations.

Princess Biyu’s growth was the shining jewel of this story. Watching her evolve from a quiet, sheltered girl—constantly having decisions made for her—into a fierce woman who stands her ground and fights for what she loves? Absolutely chef’s kiss. Her journey into confidence felt powerful and earned.

And Nikator… oh, he’s straight out of BookTok’s collective dream journal.
Long red hair?
Sapphire blue eyes?
Broody, sarcastic, secretly soft??
And when this man falls, HE FALLS. The “touch her and die” trope had me screaming into my pillow.

My only struggle was the repeated whiplash of Biyu wavering between loathing and liking him—it pulled me out of the story a few times.

But the pacing, plot, and overall character richness were all major level-ups from book one. It felt sharper, more emotional, and more immersive.

Overall, a fantastic read with compelling characters, delicious tension, and the kind of fantasy atmosphere you can sink right into.

[Thorance · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have no words for this book. Whatever disappointment I felt in Muyang's book, I felt wholeness with Nikator and Biyu.

First, let's be for real: Biyu had all the right to act the way she did. I'm not open to hearing she's the annoying FMC when, in reality, a lot would have done the same and maybe WORSE.

Second, Nikator. My love, my one. I have no words on how this man yearns for Biyu. The last few chapters had my heart in a chokehold, and I couldn't stop crying. From the push-and-pull dynamic to the sudden plot twist at the end (I bawled my eyes out, thank you very much, Maham Fatemi), I was so prepared to just cry this book out. Eventually, I still did, but it was wiped with happy tears.

One line that will have my heart is when Nikator said, "I would have set the world at your feet if only you had asked." In this book, I annotated A LOT, like most chapters probably had a yellow highlight, but this one just speaks the most because it says a lot on what kind of man Nikator is, and boy do I tell you, HE IS THE MAN.

I'm officially putting Nikator on my top book boyfriend list. He deserves this spot.

Drakkon: Serpent Prince was my most awaited book after Drakkon Empire's curse. Exceeded all my expectations.

[Alexis Crotty · Rating 5 out of 5]

This easily became my favorite of the series so far, Empire's Curse walked so Serpent Prince could run. I absolutely loved Nikator and Biyu's story. Maham Fatemi is so good at writing actual enemies to lovers. The hate and tension were heartbreaking at points. I felt like it was a lot more fast paced than Empire's Curse and it was packed with twists, leaving me desperate to know what was to come and how the characters were going to come back from the deep end. For the book mostly taking place in the palace since Biyu is a prisoner, there was always so much going on with her plotting and the relationships. Some of the description did feel a little repetative at times (Nikator's jaw feathered A LOT), but overall the plot kept me wanting more. I definitely think it is a good idea to read these in order (they are interconnected standalones) as I think it gives Muyang's parts more power and understanding of why he makes the decisions he does knowing his story. I can't wait to see who's story is next and honestly I would love to see where Biyu and Nikator go from here. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Mia Howard · Rating 4 out of 5]

4/5!
Drakkon: Serpent Prince honestly had me staying up all night reading. I just HAD to know how the story would unfold. I personally really liked the dynamic between Biyu and Nikator. I love a good enemies to lovers story. The MMC was AMAZING, I love Nikator. I did wish for a more fleshed out ending and a bit more character growth for Biyu. However, it is understandable due to her background being a sheltered princess who is essentially prisoner in what was once her home. I was so engrossed in the story I did find myself wanting a more at the end and clarity around the magic system but was overall satisfied. I had not read the other book but that is okay since it worked as a standalone, but I am interested in reading it now!

Overall, a captivating enemies to lovers fantasy romance with great tension, atomosphere, and vibes. I truly could not put it down and kept saying "just one more chapter" until I ultimately finished the whole book in one sitting.

Thank you to NetGalley, Maham Fatemi, and Gazzelle and Moon Press for the opportunity to read this ARC!

[Kristie Kieffer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Drakkon: Serpent Prince is a captivating romantic fantasy that masterfully blends danger, passion, and intrigue. Maham Fatemi crafts a world that feels vibrant and alive, filled with tension, magical stakes, and political maneuvering that keeps the story thrilling from start to finish.

The characters are intense and layered, with motivations that feel real and relationships that sizzle with chemistry. Drakkon himself is magnetic—a prince with depth, power, and complexity—while the heroine is strong, clever, and fully capable of holding her own in a high-stakes world.

The romance unfolds with a slow burn that makes every interaction charged and meaningful, and the pacing keeps the tension high without ever feeling rushed. Fatemi’s prose is immersive, balancing action, emotion, and worldbuilding seamlessly.

This book is perfect for fans of romantic fantasy, enemies-to-lovers dynamics, and stories with a dark, alluring edge. A gripping, enchanting start to what promises to be an unforgettable series. 🐍✨

[Cristina · Rating 2 out of 5]

I received an ARC via Netgalley in exchange for a honest review.

Drakkon: Serpent Prince ended up being a bit of a slow read for me. The premise immediately caught my attention, and I began the book with genuine curiosity. However, I struggled to immerse myself in the story fully. The plot took a while to develop, and at times, I felt the pacing could have been more dynamic to hold my interest.

That said, I think part of my experience may have been influenced by the timing. It simply might not have been the right moment for me to connect with this book. There are interesting elements here, especially in the world-building and lore, but I found it took effort to keep pushing forward.

Still, I can appreciate the potential of the story, and I think readers who enjoy a slower, more detailed pace might get much more out of it than I did. In my case, it just came down to timing and personal preference.

[Kerr · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a ride this book is! I fell in love with the Heartless and the Wicked series by this author and all her books are an immediate read ❤️

This is the second story in the Drakkon series. While it could be read as a standalone, it would be best read in order. This book would absolutely spoil the first and I feel you’d miss some important background by reading out of order.

This book feels a bit more serious than the first in the series, which I felt was humorous at times. Everything just feels so bleak for this main character. Biyu is kept in a luxury prison due to her status as a princess after the last emperor is usurped. Her feelings of being unimportant or not good enough radiates throughout the story. She gets pulled into a plot to change her fate and that’s when she has to start stepping out of her comfort zone. Biyu is a very different character than I’ve read lately and it was refreshing reading her growth in this book.

Thanks to the author for the ARC!

[Kozyreadsxo]

I really wanted this one to work. The cover alone had me convinced I was about to have a full moment — serpent prince, fantasy romance, that aesthetic — it had my name written all over it.

But I just couldn't connect. I got further than I expected to and still felt like I was reading at arm's length the whole time. Nothing was wrong exactly, the writing was fine, the world was interesting enough, I just wasn't feeling any of it. No pull toward the characters, no urgency to find out what happened next. I'd put it down and genuinely not think about it until I had to pick it up again.
That's usually the sign I need to let something go.

This one needed my full attention and I didn't have it to give. Completely a me problem — I can see why readers love this series and I'm not ruling out coming back when I'm in a better headspace for it.

Thank you to NetGalley and Gazelle and Moon Press LLC for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Queso Raven · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the firs book I read from Maham Fatemi, but I love this author's story-telling style already. This standalone Romantasy features an FMC, Biyu, who is trying to find her place and find herself in the midst of chaos and societal limitations, and the MMC, Nik, who is the epitome of touch-her-and-die. Biyu and Nik have a fantastic enemies-to-lovers story that is a whirlwind from beginning to end. This story has magic, castle intrigue, deception, and a few other fun surprises.

If you like the 4th Wing series, ACOTAR, and the Flesh and Fire or Blood and Ash series. you'll love this romantasy story. I was not aware of the first book in this series prior to reading it, but I would recommend reading them in order so that things to make a bit more sense.

I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Rachael · Rating 4 out of 5]

"I am a mad man tangled in these webs you've spun around me and I have no way out, and I wish for nothing more than for you to look my way. All these years."

This book follows two characters, Biyu and Nikator, that were mentioned in the first book. Biyu and her brother are attempting to overthrow the throne, and, in the process, Biyu draws the attention of Nikator, one of the emperor's elite. Biyu starts to use magic to get him to leave, but inadvertently ties herself to him. They are strongly drawn to each other, yet are working on opposite sides and deeply suspicious of the other.

I really liked this book, probably even more than I liked the first one. Biyu and Nikator had the perfect tension, and the third-act conflict really worked for the story. I really liked them together, and I liked how Muyang redeemed himself (again).

[Kay Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed The Serpent Prince, especially the beginning. The opening and the world-building immediately pulled me in, and the writing style is beautiful — very vivid and atmospheric. The first half really hooked me.

The only part that didn’t fully work for me was the ending. It felt a bit fast compared to the strong buildup, and I personally had a hard time connecting with FLC character. Her journey didn’t resonate with me the way I hoped, but I know other readers might see her differently. I also wished for a little more closure, especially regarding her sister.

The writing itself is beautiful. The author has a way of painting vivid worlds and emotions that stand out. The book remains a memorable and unique read, and I’m grateful to have received an ARC.