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Siren and Serpent
Before the Songbird survived the fire, another Siren stood against Hell.
Before the monster learned love, he only knew slaughter.
Siren Choirs are vanishing.
One by one.
Across distant seas, entire communities disappear without warning, leaving only silence behind.
As Selene struggles to protect her sisters, Lucifer's search for the Songbird draws ever closer to her shores. He believes prophecy will grant him the power to reshape creation itself.
All he needs is the Siren destined to open the gates.
And in Hell, his most loyal executioner is already clearing the path.
Siren and Serpentis a dark fantasy prequel novella to Songbird and Hellfire, revealing the fall of the Sirens, the rise of prophecy, and the massacre that changed the world forever.
Featuring ancient magic, morally grey characters, divine manipulation, monster origins, and the devastating choices that set the Book of Chains series into motion.
Some stories begin with a love story.
This one begins with an extinction.
Reading Note: Siren and Serpentcan be read before Songbird and Hellfire.
For readers who enjoy maximum emotional devastation, however, it is best experienced after Book One.
Before the monster learned love, he only knew slaughter.
Siren Choirs are vanishing.
One by one.
Across distant seas, entire communities disappear without warning, leaving only silence behind.
As Selene struggles to protect her sisters, Lucifer's search for the Songbird draws ever closer to her shores. He believes prophecy will grant him the power to reshape creation itself.
All he needs is the Siren destined to open the gates.
And in Hell, his most loyal executioner is already clearing the path.
Siren and Serpentis a dark fantasy prequel novella to Songbird and Hellfire, revealing the fall of the Sirens, the rise of prophecy, and the massacre that changed the world forever.
Featuring ancient magic, morally grey characters, divine manipulation, monster origins, and the devastating choices that set the Book of Chains series into motion.
Some stories begin with a love story.
This one begins with an extinction.
Reading Note: Siren and Serpentcan be read before Songbird and Hellfire.
For readers who enjoy maximum emotional devastation, however, it is best experienced after Book One.
85 pages, ebook
Published July 31, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
July 4, 2026
This is an ARC Review:
This was a lot to take in. There was an abundance of description throughout, and at times I found myself getting lost in it, struggling to focus on what was actually happening because there was so much emphasis on the descriptive writing.
It wasn’t until the final third of the book that it really hooked me. That’s when everything seemed to find its rhythm. You finally see the shift in Asmodeus when he reaches the final choir. Something clicks into place, and instead of fulfilling his promise to Lucifer, he chooses a different path.
Watching him become Atticus—almost as though he’s being reborn—was one of my favourite parts. Seraphina becomes a beacon for him. There’s something about her that draws him in so deeply that it changes the course of his entire story, and I’m really interested to see where that journey takes him next.
One thing that did leave me questioning was Lucifer’s relationship with Selene. He wanted her by his side to rule and viewed her as his equal, yet he still ordered Asmodeus to leave her until last and kill her. Considering the obsession he seemed to have with her, that decision felt a little contradictory to me.
Lilith, however, was exactly what I expected her to be. She lived up to every expectation I had.
There is a touch of spice throughout the book, particularly between Lilith and Asmodeus, but it’s fairly subtle and never overshadows the story.
Overall, I have mixed feelings about this one. The final third completely pulled me in, but it took a fair amount of concentration to get there because of the slower, heavily descriptive beginning.
That said, it gave me enough to want to continue with book two. I’m hopeful that now the foundations have been laid and the story has found its pace, the next book will pick up where this one left off and maintain the momentum that made the ending so engaging. The ending left me optimistic enough to rate this 4⭐️, and I’m really hoping book two delivers on the promise it set up.
This was a lot to take in. There was an abundance of description throughout, and at times I found myself getting lost in it, struggling to focus on what was actually happening because there was so much emphasis on the descriptive writing.
It wasn’t until the final third of the book that it really hooked me. That’s when everything seemed to find its rhythm. You finally see the shift in Asmodeus when he reaches the final choir. Something clicks into place, and instead of fulfilling his promise to Lucifer, he chooses a different path.
Watching him become Atticus—almost as though he’s being reborn—was one of my favourite parts. Seraphina becomes a beacon for him. There’s something about her that draws him in so deeply that it changes the course of his entire story, and I’m really interested to see where that journey takes him next.
One thing that did leave me questioning was Lucifer’s relationship with Selene. He wanted her by his side to rule and viewed her as his equal, yet he still ordered Asmodeus to leave her until last and kill her. Considering the obsession he seemed to have with her, that decision felt a little contradictory to me.
Lilith, however, was exactly what I expected her to be. She lived up to every expectation I had.
There is a touch of spice throughout the book, particularly between Lilith and Asmodeus, but it’s fairly subtle and never overshadows the story.
Overall, I have mixed feelings about this one. The final third completely pulled me in, but it took a fair amount of concentration to get there because of the slower, heavily descriptive beginning.
That said, it gave me enough to want to continue with book two. I’m hopeful that now the foundations have been laid and the story has found its pace, the next book will pick up where this one left off and maintain the momentum that made the ending so engaging. The ending left me optimistic enough to rate this 4⭐️, and I’m really hoping book two delivers on the promise it set up.
August 1, 2026
Thank you to Chelsea Elliott for allowing me to ARC read this Novella.
Siren and Serpent, is the prequel to Songbird and Hellfire, exploring the reason for the almost extinction of Sirens. S&H follows Seraphina (the last Siren) hunting the demon who massacred her sisters. S&S is set in the past and follows Asmodeus as he is sent to destroy the Sirens.
The book has multiple POV from Asmodeus, Lucifer, Selene and Lilith.
Lucifer is obsessed with power and determined to keep it at all costs. He sends Asmodeus to kill the Sirens, which he does without feeling and a chilling detachment.
Selene sits by Lucifer's side as an equal...however even she is not safe.
Lilith is a manipulative and calculated character...true to her reputation.
The writing is very descriptive (which can be difficult for some readers) and helps bring the story to life.
Tropes:
Morally Grey
Angels, Demons & Sirens
Found family
No HEA
If you love Dark Fantasy and a monster origin story with Demons, Angels & Sirens, then this book is for you!
Siren and Serpent, is the prequel to Songbird and Hellfire, exploring the reason for the almost extinction of Sirens. S&H follows Seraphina (the last Siren) hunting the demon who massacred her sisters. S&S is set in the past and follows Asmodeus as he is sent to destroy the Sirens.
The book has multiple POV from Asmodeus, Lucifer, Selene and Lilith.
Lucifer is obsessed with power and determined to keep it at all costs. He sends Asmodeus to kill the Sirens, which he does without feeling and a chilling detachment.
Selene sits by Lucifer's side as an equal...however even she is not safe.
Lilith is a manipulative and calculated character...true to her reputation.
The writing is very descriptive (which can be difficult for some readers) and helps bring the story to life.
Tropes:
Morally Grey
Angels, Demons & Sirens
Found family
No HEA
If you love Dark Fantasy and a monster origin story with Demons, Angels & Sirens, then this book is for you!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to Chelsea Elliott for the eARC of Siren and Serpent the prequel to Songbird and Hellfire.
Chelsea Elliott is a new to me author but I absolutely loved her writing style, I loved how it was so descriptive, I felt I got enough information to know what was happening without reading book 1. I loved how we had Lucifer and all the other characters and I loved how they were developed, the multiple pint of vows for the chapters were great as I felt I got a more in-depth insight into the characters. I really enjoyed the progression of this novella, the plotline had me gripped with intrigue.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this novella and it makes me want to read Songbird and Hellfire
Chelsea Elliott is a new to me author but I absolutely loved her writing style, I loved how it was so descriptive, I felt I got enough information to know what was happening without reading book 1. I loved how we had Lucifer and all the other characters and I loved how they were developed, the multiple pint of vows for the chapters were great as I felt I got a more in-depth insight into the characters. I really enjoyed the progression of this novella, the plotline had me gripped with intrigue.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this novella and it makes me want to read Songbird and Hellfire
August 10, 2026
Fantastic read all in a day read around 39% in the morning then late evening finished the rest throughly enjoyed delving back into this story line either the characters and world building was great to know how it all began and happened very though which I love that’s it’s explained in great detail I loved the other arc I read and loved this short one just as much I thanks Chelsea for choosing me again for your arc I’m looking forward to reading the next book x
Review of advance copy received from Author
“Beware the Snake with the borrowed skin.”
Siren and Serpent is the dark prequel novella of the “A Book of Chains” series. It gives us an insight of the backstory of characters within “Songbird and Hellfire”. The novella contains multiple POVs - Asmodeus, Lucifer, Selene, and Lilith.
Normally , I can sometimes find multiple POVs to be overwhelming. Within this novella though, I felt it was done very well. All the POVs were distinctly separate, so I wasn’t confusing who was who. I enjoyed the insight into characters who I assume are heavily featured within the series.
Character descriptions were very vivid, especially Asmodeus’. Atmospheric details were done very well too. I loved imagine the coves and the “moonlight dragging long ribbons of silver across the water”, compared to the contrast of hell with its lava and obsidian. I also enjoyed the unique take on sirens. These sirens are using their songs to influence the air and sea, in tune with the other siren choirs. They remain on land with their wings, rather than your usual depiction of a siren being mer-like creature , luring sailors.
I really enjoyed the plot as a first time reader. I went into it without reading “Songbird and Hellfire” first, but I was pleasantly relieved that you could enjoy this novella without knowing what happens in the other book. The premise of the novella has definitely made me what to see what comes next, I fully intend on continuing this series. I’m intrigued into how the characters relationships develop with one another , with the obvious underlying deception. I don’t think I’d be too eager to trust the mmc if I were the fmc, that’s for sure !
A big thank you to Chelsea Elliott for allowing me the honour, and pleasure, of reading this eArc, pre release.
Siren and Serpent is the dark prequel novella of the “A Book of Chains” series. It gives us an insight of the backstory of characters within “Songbird and Hellfire”. The novella contains multiple POVs - Asmodeus, Lucifer, Selene, and Lilith.
Normally , I can sometimes find multiple POVs to be overwhelming. Within this novella though, I felt it was done very well. All the POVs were distinctly separate, so I wasn’t confusing who was who. I enjoyed the insight into characters who I assume are heavily featured within the series.
Character descriptions were very vivid, especially Asmodeus’. Atmospheric details were done very well too. I loved imagine the coves and the “moonlight dragging long ribbons of silver across the water”, compared to the contrast of hell with its lava and obsidian. I also enjoyed the unique take on sirens. These sirens are using their songs to influence the air and sea, in tune with the other siren choirs. They remain on land with their wings, rather than your usual depiction of a siren being mer-like creature , luring sailors.
I really enjoyed the plot as a first time reader. I went into it without reading “Songbird and Hellfire” first, but I was pleasantly relieved that you could enjoy this novella without knowing what happens in the other book. The premise of the novella has definitely made me what to see what comes next, I fully intend on continuing this series. I’m intrigued into how the characters relationships develop with one another , with the obvious underlying deception. I don’t think I’d be too eager to trust the mmc if I were the fmc, that’s for sure !
A big thank you to Chelsea Elliott for allowing me the honour, and pleasure, of reading this eArc, pre release.
Review of advance copy received from Author
TW: violence, grief, genocide/extinction, mass murder, torture, emotional manipulation, religious themes, explicit sexual content, power imbalance, threats of violence, and dark fantasy themes.
Siren & Serpent by Chelsea Elliott is a prequel Novella! 6 star Rating, I loved it.
You don't have to have read her debut novel Songbird & Hellfire to read this one 💚
We just dive right in with Lucifer (why do they alwayssss seem sexy AF?) - reference Lucifer the tv show & also supernatural to see my point. K thanks 😂👀💚 - although forever an assholes just like Asmodeus 🙄👀🤣 but gawd are they hot 🤣 *I often wonder if I am ok* ☠️🤣👀
I absorbed this in 2 sittings due to life, lifing. Other than that its totally would have been finished in 1. But hey ho.
I seriously loved it though. I was only 10% in and messaged chelsea like "omg the way you describe things and use imagery is amazeballs." 🤣👀
I really enjoyed all the different pov's throughout the whole book, and I really felt for Selene 😭
So its a 6/5 for me & I cant wait to restart s&h as I think i got to 10% then life got busy so im totally refreshing from page 1.
Siren & Serpent by Chelsea Elliott is a prequel Novella! 6 star Rating, I loved it.
You don't have to have read her debut novel Songbird & Hellfire to read this one 💚
We just dive right in with Lucifer (why do they alwayssss seem sexy AF?) - reference Lucifer the tv show & also supernatural to see my point. K thanks 😂👀💚 - although forever an assholes just like Asmodeus 🙄👀🤣 but gawd are they hot 🤣 *I often wonder if I am ok* ☠️🤣👀
I absorbed this in 2 sittings due to life, lifing. Other than that its totally would have been finished in 1. But hey ho.
I seriously loved it though. I was only 10% in and messaged chelsea like "omg the way you describe things and use imagery is amazeballs." 🤣👀
I really enjoyed all the different pov's throughout the whole book, and I really felt for Selene 😭
So its a 6/5 for me & I cant wait to restart s&h as I think i got to 10% then life got busy so im totally refreshing from page 1.
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
I am obsessed with this series! The prequel to Songbird and Hellfire, if you’ve read it, you know what is going to happen; however, I don’t know if you’re ready to read exactly what happened!
Asmodeus’ chapters are chilling. He’s detached from what he’s doing and has lost himself. Lucifer is obsessed with power and will do anything to take it or make sure no one else can have it. Selene just wants to sing and help her choir, but she can feel the change in the air. Lilith is lustful and sly, but even more importantly, calculated.
Even if you haven’t read Songbird and Hellfire, you can read this first, and you’ll have a unique viewpoint and an interesting reading experience!
If you love celestial fantasy, black/morally grey MMCs, and no happy ending, then look no further!
🌶️🌶️
I am obsessed with this series! The prequel to Songbird and Hellfire, if you’ve read it, you know what is going to happen; however, I don’t know if you’re ready to read exactly what happened!
Asmodeus’ chapters are chilling. He’s detached from what he’s doing and has lost himself. Lucifer is obsessed with power and will do anything to take it or make sure no one else can have it. Selene just wants to sing and help her choir, but she can feel the change in the air. Lilith is lustful and sly, but even more importantly, calculated.
Even if you haven’t read Songbird and Hellfire, you can read this first, and you’ll have a unique viewpoint and an interesting reading experience!
If you love celestial fantasy, black/morally grey MMCs, and no happy ending, then look no further!
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review
Thank you Chelsea Elliott for this ARC to review!
I went into this prequel novella completely blind - I hadn't read book one in the series, and apparently couldn't remember the blurb either because I had no idea who's story this was meant to be following - not that that's a bad thing! The prequel has several POVs to give a full scope in a short amount of time of what's caused the disappearance of the Sirens, directly leading to book one. It's a great bit of backstory, either to ease you into the main story or to expand on what you've already read.
The writing itself was fantastic. While it initially took a moment to adjust to the more poetic-style prose, it conjured up beautiful imagery and was more fitting for a world of demons and Sirens. I only felt that at times the writing became a bit repetitive.
I'm very excited and ready to dive into book one, Songbird and Hellfire!
Thank you Chelsea Elliott for this ARC to review!
I went into this prequel novella completely blind - I hadn't read book one in the series, and apparently couldn't remember the blurb either because I had no idea who's story this was meant to be following - not that that's a bad thing! The prequel has several POVs to give a full scope in a short amount of time of what's caused the disappearance of the Sirens, directly leading to book one. It's a great bit of backstory, either to ease you into the main story or to expand on what you've already read.
The writing itself was fantastic. While it initially took a moment to adjust to the more poetic-style prose, it conjured up beautiful imagery and was more fitting for a world of demons and Sirens. I only felt that at times the writing became a bit repetitive.
I'm very excited and ready to dive into book one, Songbird and Hellfire!
Review of advance copy received from Author
First of all, this book is GORGEOUS. The writing is simply beautiful, with evocative descriptions of land, sea and h*ll itself leading us through the story. The characters are well-drawn and I really did feel for the Sirens as they gradually met their fate.
However, I admit to being a bit confused. I haven't read any other books by this author, and this novella left me feeling somewhat adrift. There are a fair few chapters that didn't seem to serve any purpose other than to be gorgeously descriptive, and the ending is abrupt - I was left wondering if it would've been better as a short story. Of course this may be my unfamiliarity with the world and characters.
A lovely novella, but more style than substance.
However, I admit to being a bit confused. I haven't read any other books by this author, and this novella left me feeling somewhat adrift. There are a fair few chapters that didn't seem to serve any purpose other than to be gorgeously descriptive, and the ending is abrupt - I was left wondering if it would've been better as a short story. Of course this may be my unfamiliarity with the world and characters.
A lovely novella, but more style than substance.
July 11, 2026
ARC Review
I really enjoyed reading this. I am completely new to this series and Author. I found the very descriptive writing really helpful and could visualise all the settings and characters which really added to the experience! I was initially worried that I would feel like I was missing something as I haven’t read Book 1 from this series but agree with the fact that you can definitely enjoy the book as it is. I will definitely be grabbing myself book 1 to read as I am intrigued to now read the main story. I hope it is as gripping as this Novella!
I really enjoyed reading this. I am completely new to this series and Author. I found the very descriptive writing really helpful and could visualise all the settings and characters which really added to the experience! I was initially worried that I would feel like I was missing something as I haven’t read Book 1 from this series but agree with the fact that you can definitely enjoy the book as it is. I will definitely be grabbing myself book 1 to read as I am intrigued to now read the main story. I hope it is as gripping as this Novella!
July 31, 2026
‘Siren and Serpent’ is a beautifully written novella. I was immediately drawn in with the writing style, the enchanting vibes and the impressive amount of small detailing that made me feel fully immersed in their world. I adored Serene and how protective she is! This was a powerful storyline and I loved everything about it!
I haven’t had the chance to read book one yet but I most definitely will as this has me fascinated to read more!
If you’re an ocean lover and a dark Romantasy lover like me then this is the book for you!
I haven’t had the chance to read book one yet but I most definitely will as this has me fascinated to read more!
If you’re an ocean lover and a dark Romantasy lover like me then this is the book for you!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was so bloody excited to get this ARC I was determined to save it for the weekend but I’m weak and had to dive in.
I’m absolutely in love with this series it makes my Supernatural Angel Lucifer watching heart happy. I didn’t know how much I needed sirens in my life until I found Chelsea’s words.
I knew how it ended but still needed to read the absolute chaos and devastation. And I was not disappointed. From the get go the characters and world still have me hooked.
I’m absolutely in love with this series it makes my Supernatural Angel Lucifer watching heart happy. I didn’t know how much I needed sirens in my life until I found Chelsea’s words.
I knew how it ended but still needed to read the absolute chaos and devastation. And I was not disappointed. From the get go the characters and world still have me hooked.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
*ARC Read*
I did really enjoy this book but I do agree with some of the other reviews on here that it was very overly descriptive in places and it did distract me slightly from the story.
I also agree that the relationship between Lucifer and Selene was a bit confusing in the sense that he wanted her to be at his side and that he was coming across as obsessed with her and then wanted her to be left until last.
I am curious to find out what happens next though!
I did really enjoy this book but I do agree with some of the other reviews on here that it was very overly descriptive in places and it did distract me slightly from the story.
I also agree that the relationship between Lucifer and Selene was a bit confusing in the sense that he wanted her to be at his side and that he was coming across as obsessed with her and then wanted her to be left until last.
I am curious to find out what happens next though!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I want to thank Chelsea Elliott for the ARC.
If you want to read Songbird and Hellfire. I would recommand to read Siren and Serpent first.
The book gave me so many answers. I didn't think, I needed to know.
I loved how she subsribed how she sees hell. And the role of Asmodeus.
She portrait the Sirens so beautiful. Living in harmony. Using their voice to influence the sea.
Lucifer made me so angry. Only thinking about himself. Taking what isn't his. But then, he is Lucifer.
Asmodeus was so cold and unaffected to what he did. Until his last fight. Where something shifted inside him.
I cried and screamed so often. Screaming: "go away, why are you staying". I wanted to crawl into the book to help and fight.
If you want to read Songbird and Hellfire. I would recommand to read Siren and Serpent first.
The book gave me so many answers. I didn't think, I needed to know.
I loved how she subsribed how she sees hell. And the role of Asmodeus.
She portrait the Sirens so beautiful. Living in harmony. Using their voice to influence the sea.
Lucifer made me so angry. Only thinking about himself. Taking what isn't his. But then, he is Lucifer.
Asmodeus was so cold and unaffected to what he did. Until his last fight. Where something shifted inside him.
I cried and screamed so often. Screaming: "go away, why are you staying". I wanted to crawl into the book to help and fight.
Review of advance copy received from Author
New to this universe!! Did not realise at first this was more like a sequel prequel, but I did enjoy getting to know the shape of the world this short story is set in - one where angels, demons, and sirens are all too real - and Lucifer has his eyes on a prophecy that involves the Sirens. Bloodshed follows. I am interested in reading more!
Thank you Chelsea for the ARC.
Thank you Chelsea for the ARC.
August 7, 2026
There was a huge amount of details in this book this is a prequel to Songbird and Hellfire, exploring the reason for the almost extinction of Sirens. This book has multiple POV from Asmodeus, Lucifer, Selene and Lilith. Lilith lives to her reputation and you would think Selene being next to Lucifer by his side she should be safe but she really isn't.
August 6, 2026
I read this in one sitting, with it being very short, and I feel like there was so much to digest! It was packed with origin and motivation, it was great getting to know the characters and set the story for Songbird and Hellfire well.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved the different than normal dynamics between the characters who don't normally go hand in hand. The entire novella was action packed and I can't wait to read the next book!
August 3, 2026
Great story, keeps you reading! I think the length is perfect. Any longer and I think it would have struggled. Leaves you wanting more!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Once again Chelsea Elliot has given us an amazingly beautifully written story. This is the prequel to Songbird & Hellfire…
This novella offers readers the opportunity to step into Chelsea’s world of fantasy and world of the songbird and hellfire’s characters…this novella gives us asmodeus and lucifer chapters…
I don’t want to spoil this amazingly written book…you have to read it to understand how good it really is…Lilith and asmodeus together is a beautiful and spicy.
Chelsea’s writing truly is not to be missed. You need to read songbird and hellfire’s if you haven’t already.
This novella offers readers the opportunity to step into Chelsea’s world of fantasy and world of the songbird and hellfire’s characters…this novella gives us asmodeus and lucifer chapters…
I don’t want to spoil this amazingly written book…you have to read it to understand how good it really is…Lilith and asmodeus together is a beautiful and spicy.
Chelsea’s writing truly is not to be missed. You need to read songbird and hellfire’s if you haven’t already.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews