Slaying the Vampire Conqueror: A Crowns of Nyaxia Standalone

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Worldbuilding, spice, and gut-punch emotions . . . This book has it ALL!

""Slaying the Vampire Conqueror" by Carissa Broadbent is a standalone novel set in the "Crowns of Nyaxia" world. It features the classic enemies-to-lovers trope, following a cult-member FMC—Sylina—who’s tasked with infiltrating enemy forces and spying on them... and her nemesis, the vampire conqueror MMC, Atrius. This was actually my second read of the book, but since I never shared my thoughts the first time around, I’m indulging now. And boy, do I have thoughts. First off, this book is the perfect example of how timing can change your whole reading experience. My first read? Definitely the wrong time. This time? Oh wow—what an emotional ride. I had so much fun. The story felt deeper, more impactful. And the leads? I have no idea how I didn’t fall head over heels the first time. Someone please explain it to me like I’m five. Because now? I’m obsessed with everything. The worldbuilding? Chef’s kiss. And no, you really don’t need to remember much (or anything) from the main series. This book takes place on a different continent, and the whole divine structure is well explained so you’re never lost. The leads? Bratty Sylina and daddy Atrius?? What’s not to love? Both are beautifully written. Even though the story is told solely from Sylina’s POV (first person), she’s such a sharp observer that Atrius gets a ton of well-deserved spotlight. I loved how she noticed all the little things about him—it made him feel layered, real, fascinating. And let’s not ignore the important detail: he has calloused hands. Still need convincing? The plot is fast-paced and perfectly balanced. Every scene has weight. And thanks to Carissa’s top-tier narration, you’re hooked from page one. No room for boredom here. Carissa’s writing style? A seamless blend of earthy and poetic. Witty, vivid, and occasionally laced with spicy language and killer banter. It’s mesmerizing. You’ll laugh, cry, scream—possibly all within one chapter. I live for that. And the romance? Not your standard setup. Once again, Carissa proves her couples are chaotic, dramatic, full of tension—and yet raw, honest, and deeply emotional in the most beautifully simple way. What more can I say besides: 👉 YOU NEED TO READ THIS. Tropes: 🩸vampire x human 🖤slow burn 🩸forced proximity 🖤enemies to lovers 🩸first-person, single POV 🖤worldbuilding 🩸cursed, daddy-like MMC 🖤bratty FMC 🩸meddling gods 🖤religious cults 🩸standalone ["

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August 13, 2025 Verified Purchase

Danielle Thomson

Brilliant! Loved this stand-alone from the Crowns of Nyaxia world

"⭐⭐⭐⭐💫 "I live in dark stories. And I've been living in yours for nearly four months. If you're going to invite me in, invite me." I pushed against his chest, hard. "I already see you, Atrius. I'm not afraid." "Both of us were being slowly strangled by those who had taken all our faith. We had no one to blame but ourselves." "I know you. I know every moment you lied to me, because I know every moment you told the truth. I know your truth. I can't ignore it. Even though it would be far easier if I could." I loved this fantasy romance set in the same world as the Crowns of Nyaxia! Sylina is a blind assassin and acolyte of the goddess of Fate, dedicated to her sisterhood and "mother" but ultimately looking for purpose and belonging. She is sent to infiltrate the army of vampires slowly conquering their country and progressing towards their corrupt king, to gain the trust of their leader Atrius and ultimately assassinate him. But back in the world she left behind, faced with the realities of Atrius's past and current purpose, Sylina begins to doubt the motives of those of who command her loyalty - as well as her own. This story was not necessarily a new premise but it was done exceptionally well, with brilliant characters, settings and moral dilemmas while examining the nature of power, devotion, manipulation and truth. I really appreciated both characters' growth and the emphasis on honesty despite the underlying subterfuge. Sylina saw the truth of who Atrius was as well as his followers. She also knew who she was and held to her sense of justice despite the beliefs she'd been indoctrinated in, ultimately fighting for an outcome that benefited both their people. And while their was some betrayal, the resolution wasn't long and drawn out because of the foundation of trust the characters had laid, in a relationship built over months. And the romance was perfection! Deep emotion, slow building of trust, amazing chemistry and passion, and true tenderness and communication. Love this series! ["

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December 28, 2025 Verified Purchase

Sophia

Another incredible addition to Crowns of Nyaxia

"Honestly I’m starting to believe that this author can do no wrong in my eyes. I love the world she’s built, I love the characters and the stories within it, the pantheon and the lore. I have left each one hesitant to pick up the next because I was so sure I couldn’t love other characters as much as the ones I’d just fallen for. Each time I’ve been happily very wrong. I love these two. While serpent is my favorite overall story in the series, this particular story had perhaps my favorite romance in the series thus far. There are many similar themes throughout the entire Nyaxia series. As a one shot, this book still manages to build an intriguing and exciting new lore to weave the reader into. I love the female lead, she’s strong and compassionate and fully capable in a way not many lead female characters are given the chance to be. Without any spoilers, the lead male character surprised me in how his own story and personality unfolded, I was instantly and easily in love with him. The romance was so much more tender in comparison to previous novels without ever feeling boring or contrived, it was a pleasant surprise. I love that there were no long, drawn out and overly frustrating tropes to sit through and wait to resolve. The story was beautiful and interesting without resorting to that. The sexy scenes were not super spicy and I do wish they focused more on both character’s pleasure instead of just the female lead’s. This was a wish I’ve had for the entire series to be honest, as it seems a little too often like the male leads are just there to pleasure the females and not to receive or share in it much themselves. That can cause the spicy scenes to be a little lackluster in my opinion, because they are so one sided. But otherwise, this is a new favorite of mine for sure. ["

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June 20, 2023 Verified Purchase

Shannon Nilest

Book Review: Slaying the Vampire Conqueror ★★★★☆

"Slaying the Vampire Conqueror is a gripping standalone novella in Carissa Broadbent’s Crown of Nyaxia series. It follows Atrius, the exiled king of the House of Blood, and Sylina, a devoted seer bound to the Arachessen, a cult sworn to the goddess Acaeja. Though they come from opposing paths, their fates intertwine as they embark on a dangerous quest to overthrow a tyrannical ruler. Broadbent weaves a darkly enchanting tale of vengeance, prophecy, and forbidden bonds. The journey is perilous—filled with formidable monsters, long-lost loved ones who resurface in unexpected ways, and choices that demand sacrifice. Yet, at the heart of the novella lies a striking exploration of loyalty and defiance, as Atrius and Sylina form a connection that transcends duty and challenges the very vows that once defined them. The pacing is sharp, the world-building immersive, and the emotional stakes are high. While it works beautifully as a self-contained story, its ending lingers with an air of destiny, foreshadowing the pivotal role these characters will play in the wider saga of Crown of Nyaxia. Overall, this was a four-star read for me: a thrilling adventure and a poignant tale of resilience, making it an essential pick for fans of dark fantasy and anyone already invested in Broadbent’s blood-soaked, divine world. ["

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August 25, 2025 Verified Purchase