Six stars!If I could give The Serpent and the Wolf by Rebecca Robinson six stars, I absolutely would! As the first book in the Dark Inheritance Trilogy, it delivers an unforgettable blend of fantasy and magic, political intrigue, and a slow-burn romance that will keep you hooked from start to finish.Vaasa is a captivating protagonist, inheriting her mother’s dangerous magic and the heavy weight of its "curse." Her brother Dominik, the Emperor of Asterya, expects it to destroy her—just like it did their mother—so he still forges ahead with an arranged marriage for his sister to Reid of Mireh, a Foreman from Icruria, even though her marriage is the only thing that could provide an alternative line of success to his throne.Vaasa resents being married off, because it essentially ensures that her brother will have her killed if she doesn't die on her own. Because of that, she runs away from her husband on their wedding night.Reid of Mireh, isn't what Vaasa expected. After he tracks down Vaasa he offers her a deal. If she helps him secure the position of Headman (essentially the president of Icruria) over the next three years, he’ll grant her a divorce and introduce her to someone who can help her control her magic.What follows is a masterful story full of political maneuvering, unexpected alliances, and emotional growth. The chemistry between Reid and Vaasa is slow and simmering. Reid seems taken from the start, but Vaasa is hesitant to care for anyone because that makes them a target for Dominik. Watching Vaasa learn to control her magic, helping Reid navigate the complex political system, and open herself up to trust and love is a very compelling journey.There are many unexpected plot twists, and the stakes are high at every turn. The world-building is intricate, and I loved the way the political systems and cultures were woven into the plot. Bonus points for the extra resources the author shared on Instagram, like character guides, a map, and more—they really enhanced my understanding of the story.I read this on Kindle with Audible narration, and both formats are fantastic. I found myself reading along with the audiobook the entire time because it was so much easier to follow and keep all the political constructs and characters straight. The narrator brings the story to life beautifully.The only downside? Now I have to wait for book two! If you love fantasy romance with complex characters, high-stakes intrigue, and heart-pounding twists, The Serpent and the Wolf is must-read.6