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The Serpent Series #4
The Serpent's Order
An assassin bound by obedience. A detective marked for death. A cartel war with no survivors.
Von Schlange thought she’d escaped her past. Now Black Nova owns her—an elite, off-the-books task force where obedience is survival and failure means death. As their newest assassin, she’s unleashed on targets tied to Jaxon Ryker, a drug lord buried deep in the Alaskan wilds.
Her partner, Xander Holt, a former Navy SEAL with ice in his veins, lives by the same brutal no attachments, no lines crossed. But as missions turn bloody, the fragile boundary between partner and lover begins to blur—and desire becomes its own kind of danger.
Across the country, Detective Anaya Nazario faces a nightmare of her own. A synthetic “zombie drug,” deadlier than fentanyl and immune to Narcan, is ripping through Los Angeles. Her investigation exposes a network of dirty cops shielding Ryker’s empire—and puts a target squarely on her back.
Two women on opposite fronts. One war against corruption and cartel power. And a single truth—every betrayal leaves a body behind.
Explosive, unrelenting, and razor-sharp, The Serpent’s Order propels the Serpent Series into its most dangerous chapter yet—where justice is a myth, and survival comes at a price paid in blood.
Von Schlange thought she’d escaped her past. Now Black Nova owns her—an elite, off-the-books task force where obedience is survival and failure means death. As their newest assassin, she’s unleashed on targets tied to Jaxon Ryker, a drug lord buried deep in the Alaskan wilds.
Her partner, Xander Holt, a former Navy SEAL with ice in his veins, lives by the same brutal no attachments, no lines crossed. But as missions turn bloody, the fragile boundary between partner and lover begins to blur—and desire becomes its own kind of danger.
Across the country, Detective Anaya Nazario faces a nightmare of her own. A synthetic “zombie drug,” deadlier than fentanyl and immune to Narcan, is ripping through Los Angeles. Her investigation exposes a network of dirty cops shielding Ryker’s empire—and puts a target squarely on her back.
Two women on opposite fronts. One war against corruption and cartel power. And a single truth—every betrayal leaves a body behind.
Explosive, unrelenting, and razor-sharp, The Serpent’s Order propels the Serpent Series into its most dangerous chapter yet—where justice is a myth, and survival comes at a price paid in blood.
331 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 10, 2026
About the author
S.Z. Estavillo
4 books249 followersS.Z. Estavillo is a biracial feminist thriller author known for her compelling stories that delve into ethnic and social commentary with strong female leads. Her professional background in literary agencies and TV studios has sharpened her editorial acumen and market trend insights, contributing to her success in securing book deals and greenlighting screenplays that became Lifetime movies. She has also collaborated with industry experts like Brian Klems at the Writing Day Workshop and completed UCLA’s Editorial Acquisitions course, further honing her manuscript development skills.
With a master’s degree in television, radio, and film, S.Z. brings a cinematic touch to her writing, complemented by her extensive hands-on experience in digital marketing, social media, and PR. Her robust social media presence, boasting over 100,000+ followers, underscores her ability to effectively promote her work. Her dedication to the literary community is evident in her recent role teaching ‘Leveraging Social Media to Build Your Author Brand’ at the L.A. Writer’s Conference and the North Texas Romance Writers (NTRW).
S.Z. is the recipient of the David Twohy Screenwriting Award, the Carl Foreman Filmmaking Award, and Best Short Film at the Latina Film Festival. Her publishing achievements include three highly successful blogs with over 3 million reader views and numerous articles as a news producer, where she interviewed notable figures such as Martin Luther King III, Holocaust survivor Esther Bauer, and Reality TV star Matt Roloff of Little People, Big World.
Her debut novel, The Serpent’s Bridge, is the first in the Serpent Series, followed by The Serpent Woman and Twilight of the Serpent. S.Z. Estavillo continues to leverage her editorial expertise and marketing prowess to carve a distinct path in the literary world.
With a master’s degree in television, radio, and film, S.Z. brings a cinematic touch to her writing, complemented by her extensive hands-on experience in digital marketing, social media, and PR. Her robust social media presence, boasting over 100,000+ followers, underscores her ability to effectively promote her work. Her dedication to the literary community is evident in her recent role teaching ‘Leveraging Social Media to Build Your Author Brand’ at the L.A. Writer’s Conference and the North Texas Romance Writers (NTRW).
S.Z. is the recipient of the David Twohy Screenwriting Award, the Carl Foreman Filmmaking Award, and Best Short Film at the Latina Film Festival. Her publishing achievements include three highly successful blogs with over 3 million reader views and numerous articles as a news producer, where she interviewed notable figures such as Martin Luther King III, Holocaust survivor Esther Bauer, and Reality TV star Matt Roloff of Little People, Big World.
Her debut novel, The Serpent’s Bridge, is the first in the Serpent Series, followed by The Serpent Woman and Twilight of the Serpent. S.Z. Estavillo continues to leverage her editorial expertise and marketing prowess to carve a distinct path in the literary world.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Serpent’s Order is a fast-paced action thriller that hooked me from the very first chapter, even though I haven’t read the first three books in the series.
I went in expecting to feel lost, but the writing is so sharp, the pacing so smooth, and the characters so compelling that I was pulled straight into the world without any confusion.
The action scenes, the tension, and even the way chapters end make it read like a fast paced movie. The author’s film background really shows. There’s no slow start here; it hits the gas immediately and never lets up.
One of the things I appreciated most is that the book doesn’t glamorize violence. Every action has consequences. The stakes feel high, the threats feel believable, and the darker themes like wars, dirty cops, secret agencies are handled with seriousness and depth.
By the end, it honestly didn’t matter that I hadn’t read the first three books. The Serpent’s Order stands strong on its own while still making me curious about the earlier parts. It’s gritty, intense, emotional, and incredibly hard to put down.
If you enjoy crime thrillers with morally complex characters, relentless pacing, and a strong female lead, this book absolutely delivers.
"Desire was dangerous.
Desire made you human.
And humans got killed."
Recall what the Feds used to call him?”
Nazario and Wilson spoke at once: “The ghost agent.”
“Had a reputation for vanishing just before a bust went sideways,” Nazario said.
I went in expecting to feel lost, but the writing is so sharp, the pacing so smooth, and the characters so compelling that I was pulled straight into the world without any confusion.
The action scenes, the tension, and even the way chapters end make it read like a fast paced movie. The author’s film background really shows. There’s no slow start here; it hits the gas immediately and never lets up.
One of the things I appreciated most is that the book doesn’t glamorize violence. Every action has consequences. The stakes feel high, the threats feel believable, and the darker themes like wars, dirty cops, secret agencies are handled with seriousness and depth.
By the end, it honestly didn’t matter that I hadn’t read the first three books. The Serpent’s Order stands strong on its own while still making me curious about the earlier parts. It’s gritty, intense, emotional, and incredibly hard to put down.
If you enjoy crime thrillers with morally complex characters, relentless pacing, and a strong female lead, this book absolutely delivers.
"Desire was dangerous.
Desire made you human.
And humans got killed."
Recall what the Feds used to call him?”
Nazario and Wilson spoke at once: “The ghost agent.”
“Had a reputation for vanishing just before a bust went sideways,” Nazario said.
January 22, 2026
The Serpent’s Order is the fourth installment in The Serpent’s Series by S.Z. Estavillo and serves as another fantastic addition to the collection. As soon as I started reading, I was captivated and couldn’t have set it down even if I wanted to. It kicked off with an explosive start and maintained that momentum from the very first page to the closing one.
The Serpent’s Order is a dark and intricate read filled with enough action to keep those pages turning. The world-building was masterfully crafted, making it easy to visualize everything unfolding in my mind as if I were watching a film.
The Serpent’s Order tells the story of two women on opposite sides of the law working on the same case. Von Schlange, also known as The Serpent Woman, returns once again but this time finds herself employed by a clandestine group dedicated to taking down the villains. Von is not particularly excited about this new role, but she didn’t have much choice in the situation.
Von is on a mission to eliminate corrupt police officers while trying to navigate her new job. She also finds herself partnered with Xander Holt, a former Navy SEAL. Together, Von and Xander develop a strong working relationship as a slow-burn romance begins to simmer between them.
Detective Anaya Nazario is on a quest to identify corrupt officers within the system while also trying to rid the streets of Los Angeles of a synthetic “zombie drug,” which is more lethal than fentanyl and resistant to Narcan. Nazario’s pursuit of the dirty cops makes her a target.
I relished every single story in The Serpent’s Series and can’t choose a favorite because I enjoyed them all. I appreciate the plot chosen for The Serpent’s Series, featuring two women on opposing sides of the law, essentially working towards the same goal. I would be thrilled to read more tales in this universe with Von and Nazario.
I wholeheartedly recommend The Serpent’s Order, along with every book in The Serpent’s Series, to all thriller enthusiasts! Be sure to grab a copy of The Serpent’s Series today!
The Serpent’s Order is a dark and intricate read filled with enough action to keep those pages turning. The world-building was masterfully crafted, making it easy to visualize everything unfolding in my mind as if I were watching a film.
The Serpent’s Order tells the story of two women on opposite sides of the law working on the same case. Von Schlange, also known as The Serpent Woman, returns once again but this time finds herself employed by a clandestine group dedicated to taking down the villains. Von is not particularly excited about this new role, but she didn’t have much choice in the situation.
Von is on a mission to eliminate corrupt police officers while trying to navigate her new job. She also finds herself partnered with Xander Holt, a former Navy SEAL. Together, Von and Xander develop a strong working relationship as a slow-burn romance begins to simmer between them.
Detective Anaya Nazario is on a quest to identify corrupt officers within the system while also trying to rid the streets of Los Angeles of a synthetic “zombie drug,” which is more lethal than fentanyl and resistant to Narcan. Nazario’s pursuit of the dirty cops makes her a target.
I relished every single story in The Serpent’s Series and can’t choose a favorite because I enjoyed them all. I appreciate the plot chosen for The Serpent’s Series, featuring two women on opposing sides of the law, essentially working towards the same goal. I would be thrilled to read more tales in this universe with Von and Nazario.
I wholeheartedly recommend The Serpent’s Order, along with every book in The Serpent’s Series, to all thriller enthusiasts! Be sure to grab a copy of The Serpent’s Series today!
December 30, 2025
This is my review of an advance reader's copy of the latest book in the excellent crime thriller/ police procedural The Serpent Series by S.Z. Estavillo. I read and reviewed Book 3 last May, and having become obsessed with the characters and story also read books 1 and 2 in the series while waiting for this one to come out. Even so, I didn't realize how much I missed these characters until I started reading #4, The Serpent's Order. Readers should know that this is a series with gritty and mature themes. Crime procedurals are not my usual, but there are a number of elements in this series that cause it to stand above others in the genre. Book 4 continues these elements and does not disappoint. Between them, Nazario and Von, the protagonist and ambiguous anti-protagonist of the series, live out every aspect of contemporary female experience in an authentic way that never falters or looks away. The story-telling and continuity are flawless. The story draws you in and does not let go. This book, like the previous ones, has enough exposition skillfully baked in to stand alone, but honestly, why deprive yourself? Whether you start here or with book one, this series will hold you with suspense, emotion, story and character arc, all in a framework of factual expertise and great writing that never make a false step. Can't wait for the next book in the series!
August 29, 2026
Non-stop action and great tension
I jumped straight into this one without realizing it was actually the fourth book in a series, but honestly it was super easy to follow along anyway. The two storylines running at the same time kept the pacing crazy fast. On one side you have Von Schlange and Xander handling brutal black-ops missions in Alaska, and on the other, Detective Nazario digging into dirty cops and a lethal new drug in LA. The chemistry and tension between Von and Xander worked so well without dragging things down, and watching the plots collide was a blast. Total page-turner with almost zero downtime, definitly glad I picked it up.
I jumped straight into this one without realizing it was actually the fourth book in a series, but honestly it was super easy to follow along anyway. The two storylines running at the same time kept the pacing crazy fast. On one side you have Von Schlange and Xander handling brutal black-ops missions in Alaska, and on the other, Detective Nazario digging into dirty cops and a lethal new drug in LA. The chemistry and tension between Von and Xander worked so well without dragging things down, and watching the plots collide was a blast. Total page-turner with almost zero downtime, definitly glad I picked it up.
February 14, 2026
Synopsis:
"The Serpent’s Order" by SZ Estavillo follows Von Schlange—Schlangenfrau, the Serpent Woman—marked by her abdominal scar and lethal sense of revenge. Forced to join Black Nova, a secret government-backed organization, to avoid jail. She is paired with Xander Holt, an ex-Navy SEAL who is equal parts dangerous and charming—impossible to avoid no matter how hard she tries. Her mission pulls her into a brutal drug cartel war involving a deadly new substance, tranq dope, causing rapid overdoses across the city of Los Angeles. Amid the chaos, the only person she trusts is Detective Nazario, a formidable investigator known as part of “the clean team,” alongside Detective Wilson and SSA Huxley. Will they survive the war, and will the mastermind behind the drug finally be exposed?
Review:
This book is fast-paced, explosive, and completely unrelenting, running through two parallel storylines—Von as a Black Nova agent and Detective Nazario investigating the overdose crisis.
What made me love this story the most was getting not one but two incredibly strong female protagonists. Von and Nazario are not defined by their scars or pasts, but by their choices and their determination to keep fighting even when they become targets themselves. The supporting characters—Xander Holt, Detective Wilson, SSA Huxley, and Chief Johnson—bring loyalty, protection, and emotional depth to the story, amplifying the intensity of the narrative. The stakes remain high throughout, with dangerous settings, gripping action, strong world-building, and impressive character development.
The romantic subplot was such a pleasant surprise to my hopeless romantic self. Watching characters fight side by side and grow closer felt natural and satisfying without taking away from the thriller element.
Even though this is the fourth book in the series, enough background is provided to follow the story, though reading earlier books may enhance the experience. The German phrases interwoven throughout the story add authenticity to Von's character and teach this novice (aka me) German learner many new words.
One thing that slightly affected my reading experience was the third-person POV, but it didn’t take away from how gripping the story is. And yes—this book ends on a cliffhanger that will make you want the next part immediately.
Perfect for readers who love fast-paced crime thrillers with strong characters and a touch of romance.
"The Serpent’s Order" by SZ Estavillo follows Von Schlange—Schlangenfrau, the Serpent Woman—marked by her abdominal scar and lethal sense of revenge. Forced to join Black Nova, a secret government-backed organization, to avoid jail. She is paired with Xander Holt, an ex-Navy SEAL who is equal parts dangerous and charming—impossible to avoid no matter how hard she tries. Her mission pulls her into a brutal drug cartel war involving a deadly new substance, tranq dope, causing rapid overdoses across the city of Los Angeles. Amid the chaos, the only person she trusts is Detective Nazario, a formidable investigator known as part of “the clean team,” alongside Detective Wilson and SSA Huxley. Will they survive the war, and will the mastermind behind the drug finally be exposed?
Review:
This book is fast-paced, explosive, and completely unrelenting, running through two parallel storylines—Von as a Black Nova agent and Detective Nazario investigating the overdose crisis.
What made me love this story the most was getting not one but two incredibly strong female protagonists. Von and Nazario are not defined by their scars or pasts, but by their choices and their determination to keep fighting even when they become targets themselves. The supporting characters—Xander Holt, Detective Wilson, SSA Huxley, and Chief Johnson—bring loyalty, protection, and emotional depth to the story, amplifying the intensity of the narrative. The stakes remain high throughout, with dangerous settings, gripping action, strong world-building, and impressive character development.
The romantic subplot was such a pleasant surprise to my hopeless romantic self. Watching characters fight side by side and grow closer felt natural and satisfying without taking away from the thriller element.
Even though this is the fourth book in the series, enough background is provided to follow the story, though reading earlier books may enhance the experience. The German phrases interwoven throughout the story add authenticity to Von's character and teach this novice (aka me) German learner many new words.
One thing that slightly affected my reading experience was the third-person POV, but it didn’t take away from how gripping the story is. And yes—this book ends on a cliffhanger that will make you want the next part immediately.
Perfect for readers who love fast-paced crime thrillers with strong characters and a touch of romance.
March 20, 2026
Now this one is not just another addition to an action thriller series, for it's sharp and immersive escalation deepend both...the emotional as well as the narrative stakes of 'The Serpent Series'.
This fourth installment is made to stand out with its ability to balance relentless momentum with layered character exploration, that delivered a story that felt as psychologically gripping as it was visually cinematic🤞
At the heart of the novel is Von Schlange, an assassin shaped by loss, discipline and the brutal machinery of 'Black Nova'.
Von's character has not been written to get admired in the conventional sense, instead, it's crafted to be understood. Her emotional restraint, moral ambiguity and the internal conflict...all add a lot of striking authenticity.
Watching her go through a system that demanded obedience, alongwith her struggling to retain fragments of her humanity, became one of the most wow threads of the book🎉
Running parallel to Von's was Detective Anaya Nazario’s investigation, which added an almost unsettling realism to the story!
Her battle against a synthetic drug epidemic and more importantly, the corruption embedded within her own system brought a different kind of tension🤞
Where Von operated in the shadows, Nazario fought in plain sight, yet both were equally vulnerable.
This dual perspective is written with utter precision, creating a narrative that feels expansive without losing clarity!
The story never felt romanticizing violence and that to me is one superb element of the book🤞Every action had weight, every decision left consequences and even the emotional aftermath...it was never brushed aside.
Grief, control, loyalty and survival, all the elements are written wonderfully and this made the intensity feel earned rather than exaggerated.
The pacing is one of the book’s strongest assets...no doubt!
Each chapter has been written with intent...tight and purposeful and often were made to end on notes that gave a lot of tension rather than simply shock.
The structure made the reading experience feel almost episodic and also cohesive.
All urgency without forced drama💪
The romantic subplot between Von and Xander has been handled with diligent restraint.
It doesn't attempt to soften the story, rather, it's all subtle, unspoken and shaped by shared trauma than...idealism.
Their connection unfolded in silences and in the gradual erosion of emotional barriers, which made it far more beautiful to read🤌
Equally noteworthy is the portrayal of relationships that were steady rather than chaotic.
Through Nazario, the narrative offered contrast...that strength could also exist in stability, even within a world defined by disorder🤞
Stylistically, the writing had a strong cinematic quality which didn't rely on spectacle alone.
The atmosphere...all vivid, the tension...sustained and the transitions between perspectives...super smooth, and all of it wonderfully allowed the story to feel expansive and even controlled.
The antagonist, too, has been crafted with a presence that actually hovered more than just a threat, like he represented the systemic rot that both the protagonists were up against all through🙇♀️
Ultimately, "The Serpent’s Order" does not aim to comfort, for it aims to immerse.
It is dark without being excessive, intense without losing coherence and emotional without becoming indulgent👌
It's gripping not because of the action, but because of the weight that its characters endure and that which they're forced to becom eventually!!
This fourth installment is made to stand out with its ability to balance relentless momentum with layered character exploration, that delivered a story that felt as psychologically gripping as it was visually cinematic🤞
At the heart of the novel is Von Schlange, an assassin shaped by loss, discipline and the brutal machinery of 'Black Nova'.
Von's character has not been written to get admired in the conventional sense, instead, it's crafted to be understood. Her emotional restraint, moral ambiguity and the internal conflict...all add a lot of striking authenticity.
Watching her go through a system that demanded obedience, alongwith her struggling to retain fragments of her humanity, became one of the most wow threads of the book🎉
Running parallel to Von's was Detective Anaya Nazario’s investigation, which added an almost unsettling realism to the story!
Her battle against a synthetic drug epidemic and more importantly, the corruption embedded within her own system brought a different kind of tension🤞
Where Von operated in the shadows, Nazario fought in plain sight, yet both were equally vulnerable.
This dual perspective is written with utter precision, creating a narrative that feels expansive without losing clarity!
The story never felt romanticizing violence and that to me is one superb element of the book🤞Every action had weight, every decision left consequences and even the emotional aftermath...it was never brushed aside.
Grief, control, loyalty and survival, all the elements are written wonderfully and this made the intensity feel earned rather than exaggerated.
The pacing is one of the book’s strongest assets...no doubt!
Each chapter has been written with intent...tight and purposeful and often were made to end on notes that gave a lot of tension rather than simply shock.
The structure made the reading experience feel almost episodic and also cohesive.
All urgency without forced drama💪
The romantic subplot between Von and Xander has been handled with diligent restraint.
It doesn't attempt to soften the story, rather, it's all subtle, unspoken and shaped by shared trauma than...idealism.
Their connection unfolded in silences and in the gradual erosion of emotional barriers, which made it far more beautiful to read🤌
Equally noteworthy is the portrayal of relationships that were steady rather than chaotic.
Through Nazario, the narrative offered contrast...that strength could also exist in stability, even within a world defined by disorder🤞
Stylistically, the writing had a strong cinematic quality which didn't rely on spectacle alone.
The atmosphere...all vivid, the tension...sustained and the transitions between perspectives...super smooth, and all of it wonderfully allowed the story to feel expansive and even controlled.
The antagonist, too, has been crafted with a presence that actually hovered more than just a threat, like he represented the systemic rot that both the protagonists were up against all through🙇♀️
Ultimately, "The Serpent’s Order" does not aim to comfort, for it aims to immerse.
It is dark without being excessive, intense without losing coherence and emotional without becoming indulgent👌
It's gripping not because of the action, but because of the weight that its characters endure and that which they're forced to becom eventually!!
Review of advance copy
𝙂𝙚𝙣𝙧𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙨
•Action Thriller
•Crime Fiction
•Police Procedural
•Badass Female Leads
•Assassin FMC
•Drug Cartels & Organized Crime
•Corruption Within Law Enforcement
•Trauma Bonding
•Slow-Burn Romance (Sub-Genre)
•Multiple Viewpoints
•Loyal Animal Companion
•Inclusive, Representation-Rich Cast
𝙈𝙮 𝙧𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬
The Serpent’s Order is an explosive, action thriller that delivers everything you’d expect from the title. From the very first chapter, the story grips you with relentless action, razor-sharp tension, and emotionally charged storytelling that feels less like reading a book and more like watching a high-octane movie unfold on screen. Reading it feels cinematic, like watching an action film unfold scene by scene, but with emotional depth that stays with you long after.
At the center of the story is Von Schlange aka the Serpent Woman, an assassin working for a secret organization to dismantle a powerful drug cartel. She is sharp, controlled, and deeply human beneath the armor she wears. With her loyal GSD Zeus by her side, Von navigates a world ruled by violence and secrets, where every choice carries weight. Her path crosses with Xander, and what develops between them is not loud or dramatic romance, but something slower and more honest, two people finding understanding in shared loss.
Running parallel is Officer Anaya Nazario, fighting the same enemy from within the system. As she takes on drug crimes, she also confronts corruption inside the police force, the wolves hiding behind badges.
Watching two women battle the same darkness from opposite sides of the law is one of the most compelling parts of this book. The multiple viewpoints are handled beautifully. Each chapter introduces a new character, a new story, a new twist, adding layers without ever overwhelming the story. Every chapter ends with tension intact, making it nearly impossible to stop reading. The pacing is sharp, the twists well-timed, and the momentum relentless.
Romance remains a sub-genre, woven carefully into the narrative rather than overpowering it. The slow-burn connection between Von and Xander feels natural and earned. And the bond between Von and Zeus feels like a quiet constant in a brutal world.
What truly stands out is the emotional honesty. The grief, rage, loyalty, and resilience are written with care, making the characters feel lived-in and real. The representation feels organic and inclusive, allowing each character to exist fully without being reduced to labels.
This book felt like a complete experience, it's action-packed, emotionally resonant, and grounded in strong, complex characters.
𝑴𝒚 𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒅𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏
If you love Black Widow, or grew up watching Wanted or Narcos, The Serpent’s Order is an easy recommendation.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
•Action Thriller
•Crime Fiction
•Police Procedural
•Badass Female Leads
•Assassin FMC
•Drug Cartels & Organized Crime
•Corruption Within Law Enforcement
•Trauma Bonding
•Slow-Burn Romance (Sub-Genre)
•Multiple Viewpoints
•Loyal Animal Companion
•Inclusive, Representation-Rich Cast
𝙈𝙮 𝙧𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬
The Serpent’s Order is an explosive, action thriller that delivers everything you’d expect from the title. From the very first chapter, the story grips you with relentless action, razor-sharp tension, and emotionally charged storytelling that feels less like reading a book and more like watching a high-octane movie unfold on screen. Reading it feels cinematic, like watching an action film unfold scene by scene, but with emotional depth that stays with you long after.
At the center of the story is Von Schlange aka the Serpent Woman, an assassin working for a secret organization to dismantle a powerful drug cartel. She is sharp, controlled, and deeply human beneath the armor she wears. With her loyal GSD Zeus by her side, Von navigates a world ruled by violence and secrets, where every choice carries weight. Her path crosses with Xander, and what develops between them is not loud or dramatic romance, but something slower and more honest, two people finding understanding in shared loss.
Running parallel is Officer Anaya Nazario, fighting the same enemy from within the system. As she takes on drug crimes, she also confronts corruption inside the police force, the wolves hiding behind badges.
Watching two women battle the same darkness from opposite sides of the law is one of the most compelling parts of this book. The multiple viewpoints are handled beautifully. Each chapter introduces a new character, a new story, a new twist, adding layers without ever overwhelming the story. Every chapter ends with tension intact, making it nearly impossible to stop reading. The pacing is sharp, the twists well-timed, and the momentum relentless.
Romance remains a sub-genre, woven carefully into the narrative rather than overpowering it. The slow-burn connection between Von and Xander feels natural and earned. And the bond between Von and Zeus feels like a quiet constant in a brutal world.
What truly stands out is the emotional honesty. The grief, rage, loyalty, and resilience are written with care, making the characters feel lived-in and real. The representation feels organic and inclusive, allowing each character to exist fully without being reduced to labels.
This book felt like a complete experience, it's action-packed, emotionally resonant, and grounded in strong, complex characters.
𝑴𝒚 𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒅𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏
If you love Black Widow, or grew up watching Wanted or Narcos, The Serpent’s Order is an easy recommendation.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 1, 2026
In the fourth book, The Serpent Order, we are thrown into the Alaskan winter land of Kodiak Island. Von Schlange has been forcibly recruited into the Black Nova, a secret organization, commanded by Commander Lucian Cain. She is partnered up with a former Navy Seal, Xander Holt and her trusted companion, Zeus. Now Von Schlange must follow orders and terminate high-profile targets at the behest of the U.S. Government. At the same time in Los Angeles, we join Detectives Anaya Nazario, Isaac Wilson and Special Agent Blake Huxley investigating corrupt Los Angeles police officers (LAPD) and a powerful drug dealer named Ryker. These plots intersect with one another in a complicated web of distrust, corruption, and violence.
Author S.Z. Estavillo tosses us right into the thrills of the hunters and hunted. The stakes are higher and deadlier for our familiar characters. No one is safe. Even Von Schlange has met her match with Xander as they weave themselves through patriotic loyalty and its flawed ideals. In their journey to locate a missing chemist, Dr. Seuing-Ah Lee, the creator of Ryker’s tranq dope, Von Schlange and Xander share the same past traumas that brings them closer professionally and emotionally. I enjoyed the new layers presented with Von Schlange, making her more vulnerable. Of course, let’s not forget Detective Anaya Nazario; she and her team have more to lose than ever. Nazario has an uphill battle between her dear friends and against the LAPD.
Author Estavillo turns up the heat and thrills on everyone, putting them in harm’s way. Who can Nazario trust? Who can Von Schlange trust? Will they prevail? If you’re a fan of thrillers and crime fiction, this book is for you. No wonder why the Serpent series continue to flourish. This series just keeps us in involved with its characters. They are family to me. I know my synopsis was bare bones, but I rather you discovered the intricate plot details than spoil them. I highly recommend this new book for your collection.
Author S.Z. Estavillo tosses us right into the thrills of the hunters and hunted. The stakes are higher and deadlier for our familiar characters. No one is safe. Even Von Schlange has met her match with Xander as they weave themselves through patriotic loyalty and its flawed ideals. In their journey to locate a missing chemist, Dr. Seuing-Ah Lee, the creator of Ryker’s tranq dope, Von Schlange and Xander share the same past traumas that brings them closer professionally and emotionally. I enjoyed the new layers presented with Von Schlange, making her more vulnerable. Of course, let’s not forget Detective Anaya Nazario; she and her team have more to lose than ever. Nazario has an uphill battle between her dear friends and against the LAPD.
Author Estavillo turns up the heat and thrills on everyone, putting them in harm’s way. Who can Nazario trust? Who can Von Schlange trust? Will they prevail? If you’re a fan of thrillers and crime fiction, this book is for you. No wonder why the Serpent series continue to flourish. This series just keeps us in involved with its characters. They are family to me. I know my synopsis was bare bones, but I rather you discovered the intricate plot details than spoil them. I highly recommend this new book for your collection.
August 25, 2026
The Serpent Woman is back, and as usual, she does not come to play! In this fourth entry in “The Serpent Series” we find our girl Von Schlange working against her will for Black Nova, a top-secret government agency. A one-woman killing machine, she takes no prisoners even in the most remote part of Alaska. Von is as tough as ever, or so she thinks until she is forced to partner with the dangerously handsome former Navy Seal Xander Holt. Von might have a heart of steel, but she soon learns that even steel melts when the temperature gets hot enough! The Serpent’s Order is a thrilling page turner with plenty of action and a large dash of spice for good measure!
I love the dual storyline from the points of view of both Anaya Nazario and Von Schlange as both women work toward the same goal in very different ways. And poor Anaya has never had it easy but this time she has to deal with corrupt so-called brothers and sisters in blue who have not only placed a deadly target her back, but on that of her family and closest colleagues as well. And all that drama just ramps up the excitement even further!
The tight plot kept me firmly on the edge of my seat, unable to put it down until the last page. I just had to know what happened next! Anaya, Von, Xander, all of them have more layers than an onion and I really enjoyed seeing those layers peeled back and learning more about them and the experiences that shaped them as the story unfolds. The characters are all written so skillfully you feel like you really know them. That is one of the author’s strongest gifts besides stellar writing and storytelling—the ability to make you really care for the characters and invest in what happens to them. I absolutely loved this latest installment in the series and I need number five so please, S.Z. Estavillo, if you’re listening, please get it out ASAP!
I love the dual storyline from the points of view of both Anaya Nazario and Von Schlange as both women work toward the same goal in very different ways. And poor Anaya has never had it easy but this time she has to deal with corrupt so-called brothers and sisters in blue who have not only placed a deadly target her back, but on that of her family and closest colleagues as well. And all that drama just ramps up the excitement even further!
The tight plot kept me firmly on the edge of my seat, unable to put it down until the last page. I just had to know what happened next! Anaya, Von, Xander, all of them have more layers than an onion and I really enjoyed seeing those layers peeled back and learning more about them and the experiences that shaped them as the story unfolds. The characters are all written so skillfully you feel like you really know them. That is one of the author’s strongest gifts besides stellar writing and storytelling—the ability to make you really care for the characters and invest in what happens to them. I absolutely loved this latest installment in the series and I need number five so please, S.Z. Estavillo, if you’re listening, please get it out ASAP!
May 14, 2026
A Well-Written Police Crime Story
The Serpent's Order by Author S.Z. Estavillo is an entertaining thriller, and the story kept my attention throughout.
The story is told in two alternating characters' points of view, which makes it an interesting read. We have in the story Von, who is motivated by Cain and her love interest, Xander, to thwart the deadly drug dealer and manufacturer, Ryke. In the other point of view, we have Nazario, a police detective who works with Wilson and Huxley with a similar aim to that of Von.
The story flows at a steady pace, with both main characters overcoming the challenges all along. There are dead bodies to take care of and the enemies who attack and injure them. Von has a pet, Zeus, who entertains us with his own combative skills in the story.
There is a romance embedded in the novel, with some scenes involving Xander and Von that are enticing to readers. The author has handled the police related aspects with precision, and according to her endnotes, her passion to write thrillers that involve police cases is evident in the story.
There is a plot line where Von and Nazario handle the chemical scientists whom Rykes, the villain in the story, hires to achieve his drug manufacturing objectives. The author has woven all these plot lines well into the story.
The characters are well-developed, and the reader can connect with them throughout the story. They all contribute to the overall story goal in a systematic way.
The writing style is quite lucid and creative, and it kept me engaged throughout.
I highly recommend this story for all thriller readers who like to immerse themselves in police crime with a touch of romance in it.
The Serpent's Order by Author S.Z. Estavillo is an entertaining thriller, and the story kept my attention throughout.
The story is told in two alternating characters' points of view, which makes it an interesting read. We have in the story Von, who is motivated by Cain and her love interest, Xander, to thwart the deadly drug dealer and manufacturer, Ryke. In the other point of view, we have Nazario, a police detective who works with Wilson and Huxley with a similar aim to that of Von.
The story flows at a steady pace, with both main characters overcoming the challenges all along. There are dead bodies to take care of and the enemies who attack and injure them. Von has a pet, Zeus, who entertains us with his own combative skills in the story.
There is a romance embedded in the novel, with some scenes involving Xander and Von that are enticing to readers. The author has handled the police related aspects with precision, and according to her endnotes, her passion to write thrillers that involve police cases is evident in the story.
There is a plot line where Von and Nazario handle the chemical scientists whom Rykes, the villain in the story, hires to achieve his drug manufacturing objectives. The author has woven all these plot lines well into the story.
The characters are well-developed, and the reader can connect with them throughout the story. They all contribute to the overall story goal in a systematic way.
The writing style is quite lucid and creative, and it kept me engaged throughout.
I highly recommend this story for all thriller readers who like to immerse themselves in police crime with a touch of romance in it.
Review of advance copy
I had the chance to read The Serpent’s Order early as part of the review team, and honestly—it might be my favorite in the series so far. I received my copy through BookSprout and absolutely flew through it.
This book is packed with action from the very beginning, and Von Schlange is at her best here. Seeing her fully operating as an assassin for Black Nova—an elite, off-the-books agency that feels like FBI meets CIA—was incredibly compelling. The stakes feel higher, the missions darker, and Von more dangerous than ever.
The introduction of Xander Holt as her assassin teammate was a fantastic addition. Their slow-burn dynamic worked really well and added tension without taking away from the story. It felt earned and grounded, not rushed.
I also really enjoyed the continued development of Detective Nazario and her relationship with Blake Huxley. Seeing their partnership evolve and their small, growing family added emotional weight to the story, especially as the danger closes in around her.
The multiple POVs worked beautifully here and helped connect the different threads of the story. Jaxon Ryker is a strong antagonist—powerful, calculating, and dangerous enough to turn LAPD officers dirty. As Nazario gets closer to the truth, it becomes clear she has a target on her back, and the tension never lets up.
This is a true action thriller from start to finish. The plot is sharp, the pacing is excellent, and the writing feels confident and fully in its stride. The Serpent’s Order shows this series at its strongest yet. Highly recommended for fans of gritty crime thrillers and morally complex characters.
This book is packed with action from the very beginning, and Von Schlange is at her best here. Seeing her fully operating as an assassin for Black Nova—an elite, off-the-books agency that feels like FBI meets CIA—was incredibly compelling. The stakes feel higher, the missions darker, and Von more dangerous than ever.
The introduction of Xander Holt as her assassin teammate was a fantastic addition. Their slow-burn dynamic worked really well and added tension without taking away from the story. It felt earned and grounded, not rushed.
I also really enjoyed the continued development of Detective Nazario and her relationship with Blake Huxley. Seeing their partnership evolve and their small, growing family added emotional weight to the story, especially as the danger closes in around her.
The multiple POVs worked beautifully here and helped connect the different threads of the story. Jaxon Ryker is a strong antagonist—powerful, calculating, and dangerous enough to turn LAPD officers dirty. As Nazario gets closer to the truth, it becomes clear she has a target on her back, and the tension never lets up.
This is a true action thriller from start to finish. The plot is sharp, the pacing is excellent, and the writing feels confident and fully in its stride. The Serpent’s Order shows this series at its strongest yet. Highly recommended for fans of gritty crime thrillers and morally complex characters.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
WHEN Revenge, Love, and Justice Collide
By this point in the series, Von Schlange is already forged by loss, vengeance, and violence—and this book wastes no time putting all of that to use. Bound to Black Nova, a covert organization that trades freedom for obedience, Von operates in a world where morality is flexible and survival is never guaranteed. She and her partner, Xander, are ruthless by necessity, but what makes this story compelling is the humanity that still surfaces beneath the bloodshed and brutality.
Under Black Nova’s control, Von and Xander are sent after targets tied to a powerful criminal network, and each mission tightens the pressure. They work with efficiency and precision, yet beneath that discipline lies a shared drive for justice that refuses to stay neatly contained. Love was never part of the plan—but in a world built on control and secrecy, even connection becomes dangerous.
As the story widens, the danger stretches beyond Black Nova’s operations. A warning sent in an unconventional way sets off a chain of events that exposes corruption within law enforcement, raising the stakes and expanding the scope of the fight. The tension never lets up, pushing toward a confrontation where cutting off the head of the snake may come too late to save everyone in its path.
I could not put this book down. The pacing is relentless, the tension unyielding, and the stakes feel personal from the very first page. A romance element enters the story here, and it never dulls the danger—instead, it raises the emotional stakes. I highly recommend starting from the beginning of the series for the full impact, and I am very much looking forward to what comes next.
By this point in the series, Von Schlange is already forged by loss, vengeance, and violence—and this book wastes no time putting all of that to use. Bound to Black Nova, a covert organization that trades freedom for obedience, Von operates in a world where morality is flexible and survival is never guaranteed. She and her partner, Xander, are ruthless by necessity, but what makes this story compelling is the humanity that still surfaces beneath the bloodshed and brutality.
Under Black Nova’s control, Von and Xander are sent after targets tied to a powerful criminal network, and each mission tightens the pressure. They work with efficiency and precision, yet beneath that discipline lies a shared drive for justice that refuses to stay neatly contained. Love was never part of the plan—but in a world built on control and secrecy, even connection becomes dangerous.
As the story widens, the danger stretches beyond Black Nova’s operations. A warning sent in an unconventional way sets off a chain of events that exposes corruption within law enforcement, raising the stakes and expanding the scope of the fight. The tension never lets up, pushing toward a confrontation where cutting off the head of the snake may come too late to save everyone in its path.
I could not put this book down. The pacing is relentless, the tension unyielding, and the stakes feel personal from the very first page. A romance element enters the story here, and it never dulls the danger—instead, it raises the emotional stakes. I highly recommend starting from the beginning of the series for the full impact, and I am very much looking forward to what comes next.
Review of advance copy
The Serpent’s Order by S Z Estavillo was an absolute page-turning thill ride 🚀📖. I don’t usually read this genre, but now? I am FULLY ADDICTED to the adrenaline rush it delivers⚡. Von Schlange, the protagonist, is a certified force of nature, she is sharp, fearless and unapologetically formidable💥👑. I loved her emotional complexity; she wasn’t just strong, she’s layered, conflicted and achingly human.
The relationship arc between her and Xander Hold was deeply moving and exquisitely writter. Their emotional vulnerability and the quiet refuge they found in each other felt raw, intimate and very very beautiful. Both of their past was so much, and I was so happy they found each other.
I was also thoroughly intrigued by the parallel storyline involving Anaya Nazario and her team. Seeing the narrative unfold through the perspectives of two strong women, each formidable in their won way, both chasing the same goal was riveting and refreshingly nuanced.
The plot was relentlessly gripping, feeling like a Mission Impossible-style spectacle, packed with gunfire, combat and edge-of-your-seat tension. The writing is so vivid and cinematic that I could effortlessly visualize every scene playing out like a movie in my head🎬
And of course, Zeus 🐕💙. I’m not even a dog person, but this absolute legend nearly made me want to get a dog. Honestly? Zeus didn’t just steal scenes, he **carried the story on his majestic paws** 🐾👑.
An amazing 4 star read that you should definitely check out.
The relationship arc between her and Xander Hold was deeply moving and exquisitely writter. Their emotional vulnerability and the quiet refuge they found in each other felt raw, intimate and very very beautiful. Both of their past was so much, and I was so happy they found each other.
I was also thoroughly intrigued by the parallel storyline involving Anaya Nazario and her team. Seeing the narrative unfold through the perspectives of two strong women, each formidable in their won way, both chasing the same goal was riveting and refreshingly nuanced.
The plot was relentlessly gripping, feeling like a Mission Impossible-style spectacle, packed with gunfire, combat and edge-of-your-seat tension. The writing is so vivid and cinematic that I could effortlessly visualize every scene playing out like a movie in my head🎬
And of course, Zeus 🐕💙. I’m not even a dog person, but this absolute legend nearly made me want to get a dog. Honestly? Zeus didn’t just steal scenes, he **carried the story on his majestic paws** 🐾👑.
An amazing 4 star read that you should definitely check out.
September 15, 2026
One of the more interesting things about The Serpent’s Order is that almost everyone is operating in some kind of gray area. Von is working for Black Nova, an organization that goes after dangerous people but definitely doesn’t operate by normal rules. Nazario is on the other side, trying to uphold the law while discovering that some cops are protecting the very criminals she is trying to stop. I liked that contrast. Both women are fighting Jaxon Ryker, but they are doing it from completely different worlds. It made me question who actually gets to decide what justice looks like when the system itself can’t always be trusted.
The ending also left me anticipating the next book in the series, and that’s a good thing. So many books try to wrap everything up perfectly by the final page, but this one leaves room for the larger storyline to continue, especially the fight to take down Jaxon Ryker and get his drugs off the street.
I also liked that the romance is allowed to simmer instead of flooding the book with gushy love. I know some romance readers want everything tied up with a happy ending, but here Von and Xander are allowed to start with chemistry and let that relationship evolve into the next book. That’s probably one of my favorite things about The Serpent’s Order. It gives you the action and crime-thriller plot first, with a romance B-story that adds to the book without overwhelming it.
The ending also left me anticipating the next book in the series, and that’s a good thing. So many books try to wrap everything up perfectly by the final page, but this one leaves room for the larger storyline to continue, especially the fight to take down Jaxon Ryker and get his drugs off the street.
I also liked that the romance is allowed to simmer instead of flooding the book with gushy love. I know some romance readers want everything tied up with a happy ending, but here Von and Xander are allowed to start with chemistry and let that relationship evolve into the next book. That’s probably one of my favorite things about The Serpent’s Order. It gives you the action and crime-thriller plot first, with a romance B-story that adds to the book without overwhelming it.
Review of advance copy
Not reading the first 3 books really made me sad because this particular book was too good
The Serpent’s Order is a sharp, cinematic action thriller that hooks you from the first chapter and never lets go.
It reads like a highoctane movie, packed with relentless action, tight pacing, and emotional weight.
At its core is Von Schlange, the Serpent Woman an elite assassin forced to work for Black Nova, a shadow organization operating above the CIA and FBI.
She’s lethal, controlled, and morally complex, with her loyal GSD Zeus as her quiet anchor in a brutal world.
Running parallel is Detective Anaya Nazario, fighting the same drug cartel from inside a corrupt system, where danger wears a badge.
Watching two women battle the same darkness from opposite sides of the law is gripping and well-executed.
The dual POV structure adds depth without slowing the story, and every chapter ends on a note of tension.
The slow-burn connection between Von and Xander Holt, an ex Navy SEAL, is subtle, earned, and never overshadows the plot.
Themes of grief, loyalty, rage, and resilience are handled with emotional honesty.
The representation feels natural, the stakes feel real, and the momentum is relentless.
If you enjoy assassin thrillers with strong female leads and cinematic energy, this one is absolutely worth reading.
The Serpent’s Order is a sharp, cinematic action thriller that hooks you from the first chapter and never lets go.
It reads like a highoctane movie, packed with relentless action, tight pacing, and emotional weight.
At its core is Von Schlange, the Serpent Woman an elite assassin forced to work for Black Nova, a shadow organization operating above the CIA and FBI.
She’s lethal, controlled, and morally complex, with her loyal GSD Zeus as her quiet anchor in a brutal world.
Running parallel is Detective Anaya Nazario, fighting the same drug cartel from inside a corrupt system, where danger wears a badge.
Watching two women battle the same darkness from opposite sides of the law is gripping and well-executed.
The dual POV structure adds depth without slowing the story, and every chapter ends on a note of tension.
The slow-burn connection between Von and Xander Holt, an ex Navy SEAL, is subtle, earned, and never overshadows the plot.
Themes of grief, loyalty, rage, and resilience are handled with emotional honesty.
The representation feels natural, the stakes feel real, and the momentum is relentless.
If you enjoy assassin thrillers with strong female leads and cinematic energy, this one is absolutely worth reading.
Review of advance copy
Set up in the land of ice and darkness, Is the Black nova, a secret group bound by duty to catch the most notorious of the thugs Jaxon Ryker.
Among the Black nova stands out their premium Assassin, cold as ice, emotionally unavailable Von Schlange. Her only companion? Her Trained military dog Zeus.
When she is put to test and hired by Black nova to be their Assassin, she knows this is her life now. Having lost everything and trying to move from a dark past, Von doesn't know what mercy is which makes her the perfect Weapon.
But when she is paired with Her partner, a handsome, strong, navy seal, who suffers from as similar of a darker past. But now when he tests her, her heart flutters for the very first time.
On the other hand Anaya Nazario, a police officer loyal to her badge is on a mission to find out the betrayers who are wolves in sheep's skin.
Bound by motherhood Anaya Nazario fights what is confusing her the most which is corrupted cops Loyal to Ryker.
The novel is packed with Action, thriller and a dangerous passionate Action romance. But the romance is not as you expect, it's dark painful and definitely worth being emotional for. Moreover the power of women is not to be underestimated for. That becomes clear as the pages move on.
Every chapter was like a next episode of an action Thriller. Gripping and worth finishing in one sitting.
Among the Black nova stands out their premium Assassin, cold as ice, emotionally unavailable Von Schlange. Her only companion? Her Trained military dog Zeus.
When she is put to test and hired by Black nova to be their Assassin, she knows this is her life now. Having lost everything and trying to move from a dark past, Von doesn't know what mercy is which makes her the perfect Weapon.
But when she is paired with Her partner, a handsome, strong, navy seal, who suffers from as similar of a darker past. But now when he tests her, her heart flutters for the very first time.
On the other hand Anaya Nazario, a police officer loyal to her badge is on a mission to find out the betrayers who are wolves in sheep's skin.
Bound by motherhood Anaya Nazario fights what is confusing her the most which is corrupted cops Loyal to Ryker.
The novel is packed with Action, thriller and a dangerous passionate Action romance. But the romance is not as you expect, it's dark painful and definitely worth being emotional for. Moreover the power of women is not to be underestimated for. That becomes clear as the pages move on.
Every chapter was like a next episode of an action Thriller. Gripping and worth finishing in one sitting.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Serpent’s Order is one of those books that pulls you in instantly and refuses to let you slow down. From the very beginning, the story moves fast, and stopping midway genuinely feels impossible.
The novel follows Von Schlange, also known as the Serpent Woman an assassin shaped by a life where survival matters more than feelings. She’s calm, disciplined, and deadly, yet written with a quiet emotional depth that makes her feel real, not glorified. Parallel to her journey is Detective Anaya Nazario, fighting the same drug cartel from within a deeply corrupt system. Watching two strong women take on the same enemy from opposite sides of the law is what makes this story so gripping.
The world of crime, corruption, and power feels disturbingly realistic. Every chapter ends with tension, making the book hard to put down. The writing is vivid and cinematic, and while the story is dark and intense, it never feels exaggerated. The slow-burn connection between Von and Xander Holt, a former Navy SEAL, is subtle and well done, adding emotion without taking over the plot.
This is not a comfort read it’s fierce, gritty, and emotionally charged. If you enjoy fast-paced thrillers with strong female leads, moral complexity, and high stakes, The Serpent’s Order is definitely worth reading.
The novel follows Von Schlange, also known as the Serpent Woman an assassin shaped by a life where survival matters more than feelings. She’s calm, disciplined, and deadly, yet written with a quiet emotional depth that makes her feel real, not glorified. Parallel to her journey is Detective Anaya Nazario, fighting the same drug cartel from within a deeply corrupt system. Watching two strong women take on the same enemy from opposite sides of the law is what makes this story so gripping.
The world of crime, corruption, and power feels disturbingly realistic. Every chapter ends with tension, making the book hard to put down. The writing is vivid and cinematic, and while the story is dark and intense, it never feels exaggerated. The slow-burn connection between Von and Xander Holt, a former Navy SEAL, is subtle and well done, adding emotion without taking over the plot.
This is not a comfort read it’s fierce, gritty, and emotionally charged. If you enjoy fast-paced thrillers with strong female leads, moral complexity, and high stakes, The Serpent’s Order is definitely worth reading.
March 26, 2026
I picked up The Serpent’s Order by S.Z. Estavillo*, and honestly, it felt intense from the very first page.
This is not a calm or reflective book—it’s fast, dark, and full of tension.
The story follows Von, an assassin trapped in a system where obedience is everything.
At the same time, we see Detective Nazario fighting a dangerous drug crisis.
Two different worlds, but somehow deeply connected.
What I liked is how the book keeps switching perspectives—it keeps you hooked.
The crime investigation parts feel very real and detailed.
The “zombie drug” angle makes the story even more disturbing.
It shows how brutal and messy crime networks can be.
Von and Xander’s chemistry adds another layer—danger mixed with emotion.
It’s not a love story, but we can feel something building underneath.
Nazario’s struggle with corrupt cops is very powerful.
It shows that sometimes the enemy is inside the system itself.
Action scenes are sharp, especially with Zeus, the trained dog.
Those moments feel cinematic and high-stakes.
Short themes from the book:
Survival vs morality
Corruption in systems
Trust and betrayal
Power of crime networks
Emotional conflict in violent lives
Overall, I feel this is a gripping thriller.
Not for light reading—it’s intense and sometimes brutal.
But if you enjoy crime, action, and strong characters, we must read this.
This is not a calm or reflective book—it’s fast, dark, and full of tension.
The story follows Von, an assassin trapped in a system where obedience is everything.
At the same time, we see Detective Nazario fighting a dangerous drug crisis.
Two different worlds, but somehow deeply connected.
What I liked is how the book keeps switching perspectives—it keeps you hooked.
The crime investigation parts feel very real and detailed.
The “zombie drug” angle makes the story even more disturbing.
It shows how brutal and messy crime networks can be.
Von and Xander’s chemistry adds another layer—danger mixed with emotion.
It’s not a love story, but we can feel something building underneath.
Nazario’s struggle with corrupt cops is very powerful.
It shows that sometimes the enemy is inside the system itself.
Action scenes are sharp, especially with Zeus, the trained dog.
Those moments feel cinematic and high-stakes.
Short themes from the book:
Survival vs morality
Corruption in systems
Trust and betrayal
Power of crime networks
Emotional conflict in violent lives
Overall, I feel this is a gripping thriller.
Not for light reading—it’s intense and sometimes brutal.
But if you enjoy crime, action, and strong characters, we must read this.
June 14, 2026
Author S.Z. Estavillo excels in atmospheric descriptions, quickly bringing the reader into the rugged terrain of Alaska and to Von’s world. The story opens as she finds herself and her dog, Zeus, alone in a desolate cabin with a military grade phone with end-to-end encryption waiting for her. The only place she has seen one is in the hands of a FBI asset. Now she has one and the message given to her is to find her target and “make it clean.” Once all she wanted was to be a vet, but vengeance for her sister made her kill, leading her to the organization she owes for keeping her out of prison by serving as an assassin.
As Von searches for her target, she finds that the town of Kodiak, Alaska is full of interesting characters including a gun toting coffee shop owner who can crack a man’s head with the butt of her gun. Another fight scene culminates with the arrival of Xander, another agent sent by the organization who hired Von. His appearance in the midst of her mission is partly a test and when Von passes, the stage is set for their working partnership and romantic spark. A parallel story between police detective Nazario and Agent Huxley adds to the intrigue. The writing is top-notch. Excitement occurs on every page. Estavillo creates colorful and layered characters who are easy to like. I will definitely keep an eye out for more from this author.
As Von searches for her target, she finds that the town of Kodiak, Alaska is full of interesting characters including a gun toting coffee shop owner who can crack a man’s head with the butt of her gun. Another fight scene culminates with the arrival of Xander, another agent sent by the organization who hired Von. His appearance in the midst of her mission is partly a test and when Von passes, the stage is set for their working partnership and romantic spark. A parallel story between police detective Nazario and Agent Huxley adds to the intrigue. The writing is top-notch. Excitement occurs on every page. Estavillo creates colorful and layered characters who are easy to like. I will definitely keep an eye out for more from this author.
Review of advance copy
I’ll be honest,I don’t usually pick up thrillers. They’re not really my go-to genre, but I’m so glad I got the chance to read this because it blew me away. The Serpent’s Order was intense, brutal, and action packed. I just loved every part of it.
Von’s journey is dark, raw, and heartbreaking in a way that sticks with you. The whole Black Nova setup? Chilling. The kind that makes you pause and go, yeah… this is messed up. And Xander—ugh. The tension, the unspoken emotions, the slow blur between duty and desire had me holding my breath more than once.
What really got me though was how layered this story is. It’s not just assassins and cartel wars—it’s about survival, corruption, betrayal, and the cost of doing what it takes to stay alive. The parallel storyline with Anaya added so much depth and urgency, and the way everything connects? Chef’s kiss.
I really loved the dual story line because it felt like reading two books at one time. And also how romance was just a sub plot and it didn't overpower the overall vibe of the story.
This book was fast-paced, emotionally charged, and impossible to put down. I’m genuinely so glad I got the chance to read it because this might’ve just changed how I look at thrillers. Dark, addictive, and unforgettable—easy five stars from me.
Von’s journey is dark, raw, and heartbreaking in a way that sticks with you. The whole Black Nova setup? Chilling. The kind that makes you pause and go, yeah… this is messed up. And Xander—ugh. The tension, the unspoken emotions, the slow blur between duty and desire had me holding my breath more than once.
What really got me though was how layered this story is. It’s not just assassins and cartel wars—it’s about survival, corruption, betrayal, and the cost of doing what it takes to stay alive. The parallel storyline with Anaya added so much depth and urgency, and the way everything connects? Chef’s kiss.
I really loved the dual story line because it felt like reading two books at one time. And also how romance was just a sub plot and it didn't overpower the overall vibe of the story.
This book was fast-paced, emotionally charged, and impossible to put down. I’m genuinely so glad I got the chance to read it because this might’ve just changed how I look at thrillers. Dark, addictive, and unforgettable—easy five stars from me.
Review of advance copy received from Author
"Desire was dangerous.
Desire made you human.
And humans got killed."
If you love thrillers and crime books blended with trauma bonding and a partnership fueled by silence rather than "lovey-dovey" things, then go grab this book.
This book provides you with the core vibe of addiction, corruption, drug cartels, and how charged the chemistry is. The author did an amazing job.
If we talk about the book, then the way it depicts the story of two women fighting the same battle as opposite sides of the same coin is really amazing.
Von Schlange, Serpent Woman, is sent to destroy a cartel network. Her struggle isn't just surviving the cold; it's surviving the "order" to be a mindless weapon but what if she is getting humanised??
Meanwhile, back in L.A., our favorite flawed, recovering-alcoholic detective, Anaya Nazario, is fighting a new synthetic terror and the corrupt cops protecting it.
The book is intense,heavy,messy at certain points but you won't put it down because it will seep into you. The story line is amazing as it will provide you with all the elements,the tension, the trauma, the power dynamics, the dilemma, the conflict and you'll be more and more engaged in it.
I really love such books and I can't wait to read more of such beautiful work..
Desire made you human.
And humans got killed."
If you love thrillers and crime books blended with trauma bonding and a partnership fueled by silence rather than "lovey-dovey" things, then go grab this book.
This book provides you with the core vibe of addiction, corruption, drug cartels, and how charged the chemistry is. The author did an amazing job.
If we talk about the book, then the way it depicts the story of two women fighting the same battle as opposite sides of the same coin is really amazing.
Von Schlange, Serpent Woman, is sent to destroy a cartel network. Her struggle isn't just surviving the cold; it's surviving the "order" to be a mindless weapon but what if she is getting humanised??
Meanwhile, back in L.A., our favorite flawed, recovering-alcoholic detective, Anaya Nazario, is fighting a new synthetic terror and the corrupt cops protecting it.
The book is intense,heavy,messy at certain points but you won't put it down because it will seep into you. The story line is amazing as it will provide you with all the elements,the tension, the trauma, the power dynamics, the dilemma, the conflict and you'll be more and more engaged in it.
I really love such books and I can't wait to read more of such beautiful work..
Review of advance copy
The Serpent’s Order is the fourth book in the series. It’s a fast-paced action thriller that kept me hooked from the very beginning, even though I haven’t read the other three books. Reading it feels cinematic—like watching an action movie, but with emotional depth.
The story follows Von Schlange, also called the Serpent Woman, an assassin working for a secret organization to dismantle a powerful drug cartel. By her side is her loyal GSD, Zeus—her constant companion in a brutal world.
Running parallel is Officer Anaya Nazario, who is fighting against the deadly “Zombie Drug” from within a corrupt system where corruption wears a badge. The story brings together two women battling corruption from opposite ends. I especially loved the slow-burn romance between Xander and Von.
The female leads are the strongest part of the book. Seeing two women fight corruption from different sides makes the story incredibly compelling. The dual POV adds depth, and each chapter ends with a twist that makes it impossible to put the book down.
The writing style is impressive. This is not a comfort read. themes of grief, rage, resilience, and loyalty are handled exceptionally well.
This book is a complete experience. If you love action thrillers, this one is definitely for you.
The story follows Von Schlange, also called the Serpent Woman, an assassin working for a secret organization to dismantle a powerful drug cartel. By her side is her loyal GSD, Zeus—her constant companion in a brutal world.
Running parallel is Officer Anaya Nazario, who is fighting against the deadly “Zombie Drug” from within a corrupt system where corruption wears a badge. The story brings together two women battling corruption from opposite ends. I especially loved the slow-burn romance between Xander and Von.
The female leads are the strongest part of the book. Seeing two women fight corruption from different sides makes the story incredibly compelling. The dual POV adds depth, and each chapter ends with a twist that makes it impossible to put the book down.
The writing style is impressive. This is not a comfort read. themes of grief, rage, resilience, and loyalty are handled exceptionally well.
This book is a complete experience. If you love action thrillers, this one is definitely for you.
September 14, 2026
Estavillo is smart about how she uses her villain. Ryker spends most of the book offstage, a name attached to things that have already happened by the time anyone finds them. That works better than putting him in a room to explain himself would have. He's more unsettling as a rumor.
Von gets pulled into an agency that doesn't officially exist, and the terms are blunt enough that the book doesn't bother explaining them twice. Work or lose everything. What got me is that she isn't tortured about it. She knows what she's agreed to be and gets on with it, which lands harder than any amount of hand-wringing would have. The thing between her and her partner stays mostly unspoken, which I appreciated. It would have been easy to overplay.
Plenty of thrillers have a body count. Fewer make you feel the punches. The Alaska chapters are where this is strongest for me, all wet boots and bad light and the sense that the landscape would finish the job if nobody else did. The Los Angeles half is slower and more procedural, following a detective on a drug case where the usual overdose response doesn't work. For a while I couldn't tell if the two stories were going to touch at all. They do, and the timing of it was smarter than I expected.
Von gets pulled into an agency that doesn't officially exist, and the terms are blunt enough that the book doesn't bother explaining them twice. Work or lose everything. What got me is that she isn't tortured about it. She knows what she's agreed to be and gets on with it, which lands harder than any amount of hand-wringing would have. The thing between her and her partner stays mostly unspoken, which I appreciated. It would have been easy to overplay.
Plenty of thrillers have a body count. Fewer make you feel the punches. The Alaska chapters are where this is strongest for me, all wet boots and bad light and the sense that the landscape would finish the job if nobody else did. The Los Angeles half is slower and more procedural, following a detective on a drug case where the usual overdose response doesn't work. For a while I couldn't tell if the two stories were going to touch at all. They do, and the timing of it was smarter than I expected.
Review of advance copy
I genuinely did not expect this book to be like this. I'm slightly disturbed by this book, it questions all my morals and im actually aggressively flipping pages because I need to know what happens next.
First of all, the atmosphere. Everything in this book feels heavy, intense and something is always about to go wrong (and half the time, it does). There’s this constant tension that never fully lets you relax, which I weirdly loved because it made the reading experience addictive.
The characters??? Messy. Complicated. Morally questionable. And somehow still impossible to stop caring about. You’re not given perfect people, you’re given broken ones, people shaped by power, secrets, trauma, & obsession.
I found myself rooting for characters I absolutely should not have been rooting for and that’s when I knew the writing was doing something right.
If you love dark themes, complex characters, and stories that make you feel a little unhinged in the best way… yeah. This one will absolutely wreck you.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
First of all, the atmosphere. Everything in this book feels heavy, intense and something is always about to go wrong (and half the time, it does). There’s this constant tension that never fully lets you relax, which I weirdly loved because it made the reading experience addictive.
The characters??? Messy. Complicated. Morally questionable. And somehow still impossible to stop caring about. You’re not given perfect people, you’re given broken ones, people shaped by power, secrets, trauma, & obsession.
I found myself rooting for characters I absolutely should not have been rooting for and that’s when I knew the writing was doing something right.
If you love dark themes, complex characters, and stories that make you feel a little unhinged in the best way… yeah. This one will absolutely wreck you.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Read
January 5, 2026The Serpent's Order by S.Z. Estavillo is an engrossing action thriller which keeps the readers hooked till the end. The story revolves around Von Schlange, who is also called the serpent woman. As an assassin, she has to hunt the drug lord buried deep in the Alaskan wilds. Now on the other side, Detective Anaya Nazario tries to fight against a synthetic "zombie drug" which is deadlier than fentanyl. The story is about two women on opposite fronts. One war against corruption.
I adored the female leads. Reading about two women fighting the same thing on opposite sides makes this book more interesting to read. Each chapter ends with a twist, which makes it an unputdownable read. The author's narrative makes everything vivid. The writing style is unique and flawless. I have to point out it is not a comfort read. It's dark and fierce. I loved the slow-burn romance between Xander Holt and Von Schlange. This cinematic thriller will keep the readers glued to the page.
Overall, I loved this book and would strongly recommend it to all.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I adored the female leads. Reading about two women fighting the same thing on opposite sides makes this book more interesting to read. Each chapter ends with a twist, which makes it an unputdownable read. The author's narrative makes everything vivid. The writing style is unique and flawless. I have to point out it is not a comfort read. It's dark and fierce. I loved the slow-burn romance between Xander Holt and Von Schlange. This cinematic thriller will keep the readers glued to the page.
Overall, I loved this book and would strongly recommend it to all.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 26, 2026
When the badges are dirty how do you know who to trust?
A new drug is taking over the streets, and bodies are piling up - both those taking it and those trying to clear it up.
This book was a mile-a-minute sprint that kept you at the edge of your seat. It was really interesting to see two women - Von and Anaya - both working to clean up this new drug and the people that dealt it off the streets, and the different methods they used to do it, with one being more lawful the good while the other was a by-whatever-mean-necessary type of woman.
They worked towards the same goal despite using completely different methods, and it goes to show that the right side of the law might not always be as right as what you think it is.
I felt claustrophobic - in the good way, in that it was atmospheric - as both Anaya and Von were hemmed in by people they thought were allies, their friends, when they turned out to be puppets for the devious puppet-master that would cut more than just your strings if he found you out.
Ultimately, what a great way to showcase feminine strength, complex and multifaceted questions about justice and law and where the line is that separates them.
A new drug is taking over the streets, and bodies are piling up - both those taking it and those trying to clear it up.
This book was a mile-a-minute sprint that kept you at the edge of your seat. It was really interesting to see two women - Von and Anaya - both working to clean up this new drug and the people that dealt it off the streets, and the different methods they used to do it, with one being more lawful the good while the other was a by-whatever-mean-necessary type of woman.
They worked towards the same goal despite using completely different methods, and it goes to show that the right side of the law might not always be as right as what you think it is.
I felt claustrophobic - in the good way, in that it was atmospheric - as both Anaya and Von were hemmed in by people they thought were allies, their friends, when they turned out to be puppets for the devious puppet-master that would cut more than just your strings if he found you out.
Ultimately, what a great way to showcase feminine strength, complex and multifaceted questions about justice and law and where the line is that separates them.
June 10, 2026
Fast-paced and darker than I expected
I picked this up because I enjoy thrillers that mix law enforcement, organized crime, and morally gray characters. Von Schlange was probably the most interesting character for me because she feels trapped between who she was and who she’s being forced to become. The Black Nova concept added a lot of tension since failure always seemed to carry real consequences. I also liked Detective Anaya Nazario’s storyline and how it connected to the larger cartel investigation.
The synthetic drug angle made the story feel unsettlingly believable at times. There was plenty of action, but I found the character conflicts just as engaging. Xander and Von’s partnership created some good moments without completely overshadowing the main plot. A few scenes moved so quickly that I wished they had been given more room to breathe. Even so, the pacing kept me invested from chapter to chapter.
Overall, this was a solid thriller with high stakes, corruption, and enough twists to keep me guessing. The ending left me curious about where the series goes next.
I picked this up because I enjoy thrillers that mix law enforcement, organized crime, and morally gray characters. Von Schlange was probably the most interesting character for me because she feels trapped between who she was and who she’s being forced to become. The Black Nova concept added a lot of tension since failure always seemed to carry real consequences. I also liked Detective Anaya Nazario’s storyline and how it connected to the larger cartel investigation.
The synthetic drug angle made the story feel unsettlingly believable at times. There was plenty of action, but I found the character conflicts just as engaging. Xander and Von’s partnership created some good moments without completely overshadowing the main plot. A few scenes moved so quickly that I wished they had been given more room to breathe. Even so, the pacing kept me invested from chapter to chapter.
Overall, this was a solid thriller with high stakes, corruption, and enough twists to keep me guessing. The ending left me curious about where the series goes next.
July 12, 2026
This high energy thriller follows two women at opposite ends of the law. I enjoyed Von (The Serpent) for her harsh acceptance of her fate. Not unaccustomed to violence, she reluctantly finds herself in a gray moral area where she must carry out a number of hits against corrupt officials on the orders of a shady overarching organisation. It is closely linked with Anaya’s story who is at the other end; a police detective who is wrapped up in supply conspiracies and the corruption. It plays for an interesting dynamic as the actions of each affects the other, even if they don’t know it straight away.
I liked the dynamic between Von and Xander. I also found Von to be a really gritty character, showing her true self when she is injured for example but refusing to give up. The author paints her vividly with a woman haunted by her past and trapped in a world of horror she cannot escape from. Her action orientated scenes are thrilling and the author sometimes turns things lighthearted when it needs to be like with Nazario and Wilson. The infiltration into the lab and the rescue sequences were some of the highlights for me.
I liked the dynamic between Von and Xander. I also found Von to be a really gritty character, showing her true self when she is injured for example but refusing to give up. The author paints her vividly with a woman haunted by her past and trapped in a world of horror she cannot escape from. Her action orientated scenes are thrilling and the author sometimes turns things lighthearted when it needs to be like with Nazario and Wilson. The infiltration into the lab and the rescue sequences were some of the highlights for me.
March 22, 2026
The Serpent’s Order (The Serpent Series Book 4) was honestly a super engaging experience for me. From the first few pages, I got completely hooked. It’s fast-paced, intense, and has that kind of storyline that makes you want to keep reading “just one more chapter.”
What I really liked is how the story handles different characters without getting confusing. Von Schlange’s role as an assassin working under Black Nova is really interesting, especially because you can feel her inner struggle throughout. At the same time, Anaya Nazario’s investigation into the drug network adds a strong crime angle, which makes the story even more gripping. The way both storylines slowly connect is done really well.
I also enjoyed the dynamic between Von and Xander Holt. It doesn’t feel forced—it builds naturally and adds a bit of emotional depth without taking away from the action.
For me, the best part of the book is its intensity. It’s not just action for the sake of it—it’s about survival, trust, and tough choices. Overall, a very addictive read that’s hard to put down once you start.
What I really liked is how the story handles different characters without getting confusing. Von Schlange’s role as an assassin working under Black Nova is really interesting, especially because you can feel her inner struggle throughout. At the same time, Anaya Nazario’s investigation into the drug network adds a strong crime angle, which makes the story even more gripping. The way both storylines slowly connect is done really well.
I also enjoyed the dynamic between Von and Xander Holt. It doesn’t feel forced—it builds naturally and adds a bit of emotional depth without taking away from the action.
For me, the best part of the book is its intensity. It’s not just action for the sake of it—it’s about survival, trust, and tough choices. Overall, a very addictive read that’s hard to put down once you start.
September 11, 2026
The police corruption storyline was probably my favorite part of The Serpent’s Order. Nazario and Wilson are trying to investigate a deadly new drug spreading through Los Angeles, but the deeper they dig, the more they realize that some of the people protecting the operation may be cops themselves. I liked that it wasn’t as simple as finding one bad officer and arresting them. There are different people involved, evidence being compromised, and the constant problem of not knowing who can actually be trusted. That part gave the book more of a crime thriller feel for me, especially with Nazario trying to do everything by the law while people around her are breaking it. Von’s chapters provided a unique angle into her new role as an assassin with Black Nova. The Alaska backdrop had a very noir vibe to it. It was interesting to have both the detective and assassin’s storylines merging. The ending was by far my favorite. It left it open and made me want to read the next one to find out what happens.
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