The premise was so good I had to request, however I struggled to get through this. I kept powering through hoping for more tension between Lythlet and Desil, or even for the monster fights to be far more stressful, but everything seemed a little underwhelming.
There felt like a lot of telling rather than showing, and it’s sad because I really wanted to enjoy it as much as I expected to.

Interesting debut novel but unfortunately not really delivering on the description or its potential.

The prose in this book is excellent but there was a lack of world building, character development, tension, pace and a gripping story line.

I expected a lot more based on the description and felt it fell a bit flat. I felt more invested in side characters than the actual characters themselves.

The story had potential, the plot in itself is not bad and could be drawn out more into a longer book or perhaps a series.

There’s so much given in the book that could have been expanded upon: the political system, the gods / religious aspects, the beasts and the characters as well.

The scenes of the conquessors were the best parts of the book - even that was taken away as the book neared its end as several were glossed over : missed entirely. As I said initially the prose itself is very well done.

All in all a 2.5/3 star read in my mind though I would read the authors works again bearing in mind this is a debut novel.

How far will you go to get everything you want? Roanne Lau explores this in an enjoyable fantasy debut about two slumdogs who fight in arena battles against monsters to better themselves from their poverty-stricken lifestyle.
Taking influences from the hugely popular Squid games Lau tackles feelings of empathy, duality, justice and the effects of poverty.
Lythlet is a young girl who lives with her friend Desil at the edge of society, living hand to mouth Lythlet is indebted to loan sharks for essential healthcare.
Seeing an advert for underground monster fighting, Lythlet and Desil enter themselves into the competition and unwittingly win their first bout. As the competition moves on, Lythlet and Desil finds themselves gaining stardom as their star grows.
As the story progresses, Lythlet finds herself coming under the watchful gaze of the Fagin like Games Master who taps into her desire to pull herself from the poverty trap that she is in at the moment.
Whilst this is marketed as Squid Games meets Witcher, I didn’t find this entirely to be the case to be honest and instead found it to be more reminiscent of a Dickensian tale.
I have to say that I was surprised about how much I actually enjoyed this one to be honest. Initially I wasn’t taken in by the idea of fighting pits as it is a trope that has been overused in fantasy in my opinion, and luckily after the initial first bouts, this is not central to the plot.
There were a number of issues that I found interesting in this. One of them is the character of Lythlet. Whilst initially she points to being autistic in her outlook, I felt that there was much more to her character, particularly the effects of having a mother that has mental health problems which have ultimately resulted in attachment issues.
There is also the question of how we treat the poorer members of our society, in that the rich use them as convenient commodities that can used and abused without any thought.
In addition to this, Lythlet is an interesting character in that she has many flaws. She is at once innocent in her outlook in life and will find herself abused both mentally and physically. However, when she is enabled by the Games Master, she equally has these qualities, and at times these put her relationships with others on the line to get what she wants.
All in all, whilst not perfect, this was a surprisingly good read that had me hooked.

I enjoyed this book and the premise was really interesting. I always enjoy some form of trials or fighting so the 12 conquessor fights really drew me in, and the different beasts they fought were really imaginative. However, I felt like the book was very fast paced but the ending felt rushed and I felt like more suspense could have been created to keep the reader guessing. Although, I did enjoy the Poet and the Ruffian twist.

This is my first 5 star read of this year. I am a huge fantasy fan and this did not disappoint me. I instantly fell in love with the main characters. I loved the Chinese influence in the book. The world building really drew you in. Some parts of the story were slow however it didn’t spoil it for me. A highly recommended read for all you fantasy lovers

4.5 stars

The Serpent Called Mercy is a captivating epic fantasy, blending Malaysian Chinese influences with a gritty narrative in a vividly imagined world. The story follows Lythlet and Desil, two debt-ridden underdogs who enter the dangerous realm of illegal monster-fighting arenas to escape poverty. Their adventure goes beyond just trying to survive; it explores friendship, ambition, and morality.
Lythlet's transformation from an overlooked slumdog to a savvy conquessor is both engaging and heart-wrenching. Her internal struggle between ambition and the sacrifices it demands, especially concerning her friendship with Desil, adds emotional depth to the narrative.
One of the novel's standout features is how it focuses on platonic friendships and found family, steering clear of romantic subplots. In a world where romantic subplots often take centre stage, this story feels refreshing.The narrative highlights themes of oppression, loyalty, community, and personal growth, creating a unique blend of action and coziness.
The only reason I’m holding back from a full five-star rating is that certain sections of the book felt a little slower-paced, and I wished for a bit more depth in some character relationships.
Overall, The Serpent Called Mercy is a thrilling ride from beginning to end. Reminiscent of The Hunger Games, it touches on societal struggles and disparities, and reflecting on the glaring gap between the top 1% and the rest of society. Highly recommend.

The Serpent Called Mercy is a fierce, fast-paced fantasy that throws you straight into the brutal world of monster-fighting arenas and high-stakes ambition. Lythlet is a gripping protagonist—sharp, determined, and constantly walking the razor’s edge between survival and betrayal. The arena battles are intense, but it’s the political manoeuvring and shifting relationships, especially her complicated friendship with Desil, that give the story its real bite. While some moments could have used more depth, the rich Malaysian Chinese-inspired setting and relentless tension make this a thrilling and unforgettable read.

Wow, I just finished this book, and I’m still reeling! As someone who loves a good underdog story, this one had me hooked from the very first page. It’s a fresh take on fantasy, less sprawling epic, more gritty, urban vibes with a dash of heart-pounding action. If you’re into stories where the characters feel real, flawed, and utterly compelling, this is for you.

The story follows Lythlet, a scrappy, down-on-her-luck protagonist who’s just lost her job and is drowning in debt. She’s forced to steal to survive, but even then, she’s got a moral compass. I loved her immediately. She’s smart, resourceful, and tough as nails, but she’s also kind and fiercely loyal to her childhood best friend, Desil. Their dynamic is everything. They’re not just friends; they’re family, and their bond is the emotional core of the story. Desil is the sweet, grounding force in Lythlet’s chaotic life, and their relationship is so genuine and heartfelt. It’s platonic, but honestly, it’s more touching than some romantic pairings I’ve read.

The plot kicks into high gear when Lythlet and Desil stumble upon a flyer promising riches beyond their wildest dreams. The catch? They have to compete in a brutal blood sport called conquessing, where contestants battle terrifying monsters for cash. Think *Squid Game* meets *Gladiator*, but with a fantasy twist. Each monster is uniquely terrifying, and the battles are intense, creative, and totally unpredictable. I was on the edge of my seat every time, wondering how they’d survive. Lythlet’s quick thinking and strategic mind really shine here she’s not just a fighter; she’s a problem-solver, and it’s so satisfying to watch her outsmart her opponents.

But what really got me was the moral complexity of the story. As Lythlet gets deeper into the competition, you see her wrestle with her values. The more money she makes, the more she’s tempted to compromise her humanity. It’s a gripping exploration of greed, survival, and what people are willing to sacrifice for a chance at a better life. There’s one particular match that had me holding my breath it was brutal, emotional, and completely unforgettable.

Another standout for me was the relationship between Lythlet and the match master, Master Dothilos. He’s such a fascinating character cynical, manipulative, but with layers of depth you don’t expect. At first, I thought he’d just be your typical villain, but he’s so much more than that. He sees himself in Lythlet, and their dynamic is this weird mix of mentorship, manipulation, and genuine care. By the end, I couldn’t decide if I loved him or hated him, and that’s what made him so compelling.

Overall, this book is a total gem. It’s action-packed, emotionally resonant, and full of characters you’ll root for from start to finish. Lythlet is the kind of heroine you can’t help but admire she’s smart, brave, and deeply human. If you’re looking for a fantasy story that balances heart-stopping action with rich character development, this is it. 5 stars, no question. I can’t wait to see what this author does next!

Thank you to the author, NetGalley and the publisher for letting me read this early!

The Serpent Called Mercy is an impressive debut! I loved the unique concept and really enjoyed the characters—some of the interactions between Shunvi and Ilden had me genuinely laughing. The action scenes were gripping, especially in the second half when the stakes were high and the tension kept building.

Lythlet was such an incredible main character. She has a difficult past, but her honest, kind, and sharp personality really shone through. I loved how she could stand up for herself and always seemed to be the smartest person in the room. Whether she was in the heat of battle or navigating everyday challenges, I was constantly in awe of her quick thinking.

The only drawback for me was that the first half of the book felt a bit heavy with info-dumping, mostly through dialogue that came off as a bit stiff and unnatural. But once the world was established, the story really found its stride. Overall, a solid and thoroughly enjoyable fantasy read!

Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher, and the author for providing an advanced reader's copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

This book was amazing. It starts with the protagonist in desperate debt to loan sharks, and she joins a monster-fighting arena with her friend to pay off their debts and survive. The fights are so well-written, and the MC develops in complexity as she progresses through the matches, and more of her backstory is revealed to us.

Firstly, I loved the Malaysian-Chinese elements in this book. It's beautifully interwoven into the worldbuilding, which made the book immersive and engaging. I also adored the creatures in this world and enjoyed reading about them, from the lightning-bees to the various monsters they had to fight. I would love to learn more about them, and the rest of the world in general.

Not sure if I agree with the pitch regarding The Witcher, unless this was just a comparison to the beast-fighting aspects of The Serpent Called Mercy. But overall this was an enjoyable book, and I look forward to reading more from Roanne Lau.

4.5⭐

Lythlet was the best FMC protagonist I have read in a while - she's not pretty, she's ruthless and a bit selfish, and her motivations are totally understandabl in the face of abject poverty and debt. She was a great character to introduce us to this really unique fantasy world inspired by Malaysian mythology. The world building was crafted just to the level I like - a good overview of the city structure, political system, class system (Lythlet living in poverty and brushing shoulders with the wealthy during the trial was the perfect way to show this), religious system (Desil's faith journey, Lythlet and the yutrella pole during the trial) and some of the technology - lightning bees!! I want some.

The side characters were great, some I liked and some I liked to hate!

My favourite were the beasts in the matches - these were creatures I have never heard of before but I can picture them so clearly thanks to Lau's writing.

If you like unique world building, that doesn't info dump or over explain, mythological creatures and complex characters, this book is for you.

Thank you to Netgalley and Rebellion /Solaris for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Lythlet is down on her luck. Recently fired, living in debt and poverty, she has nowhere to turn and no one but her best friend Desil. Until the chance comes her way: if they swear themselves to the arena, they can compete as conquessors, facing lurid mythical beasts from beyond their city in the hope of winning a cash prize large enough to liberate them both…

Lythlet is quick-witted, Desil brawny, and perhaps together they’ll make it through. But the criminal underworld is a murky place to enter, and threats beyond the monsters they face begin to materialise.

The worldbuilding in this is incredibly rich. My only possible criticism is that there isn’t MORE: more lore behind each of the beasts, greater detail on the clear political depth of the city; the mythology of their ancestors that brought them here; the history behind the religion. There’s is so much going on, I would have read three times as much content from Lau. But what she does with what she has!

The commentary on capitalism, morality, humanity is razor sharp without becoming didactic, because it’s all told through the lens of the characters - particularly Lythlet, whose growth in this is stunning, a rollercoaster arc that is nevertheless believable. The emotional impact has real gut punches here, from helplessness to hopefulness, and all told through prose that is very readable whilst being incisively crafted. wow this got me really hard? especially the parts with a duty to family whom you love but your relationship is difficult for reasons you can’t really change

Featuring:

- Gladiatorial combat with a whole bestiary of monsters
- Detective story vibes as our heroine works out what’s going on behind the scenes
- A really strong platonic friendship with no romance but a beautifully told bond. this is the new Locke/Jean, y’all
- Adorable dog/s
- Adorable bees
- Criminal masterminds, underworlds, politics and plotting
- Family trauma
- Found family

The Serpent Called Mercy is an epic fantasy novel that introduces readers to a fresh and vibrant Malaysian Chinese-inspired world. Debut author Roanne Lau takes us into the gritty underworld of a city where poverty, ambition, and monsters collide. Lythlet and her only friend, Desil, are trapped in a cycle of debt and desperation. In a bid to escape, they enter an illegal monster-fighting arena, where they face terrifying sun-cursed beasts for the chance to earn quick money.

However, Lythlet's cunning and quick thinking soon set her apart from her brawling companion, attracting the attention of the match-master, Dothilos. With fame and fortune within reach, Lythlet’s ambition grows, but so too does the price she must pay. As she navigates a world of politics, deception, and dangerous beasts, Lythlet must decide whether her dreams of wealth and power are worth sacrificing her honour and the only friendship she has left.

At the heart of this thrilling tale is the strong, unwavering friendship between Lythlet and Desil. Their bond serves as the foundation of a novel filled with blood-pumping battles and difficult choices. In a genre crowded with epic fantasy, The Serpent Called Mercy stands out with its unique setting and compelling characters. Fans of underdog stories will be immediately engrossed by this captivating adventure.

3.5/5.

Read more at The Secret Book Review.

The Serpent Called Mercy follows Lythlet as she attempts to pay off her best friend's debt and escape the cycle of poverty. The world building in this book is thoughtful and intriguing- from the structure of society to the light sources, the author clearly put a ton of effort into creating it.

I love the world this story takes place in as well as the basis in mythology and the social commentary it includes, but the story itself was a little off in some places. While the author does an excellent job of using dialogue to advance the plot in some places, conversations sometimes feel forced and fall victim to info dumping. Additionally, I feel like pacing was far better in the first 60% of the novel than towards the end.

It seems like this book is more suited for YA audiences than the adult fantasy it is marketed as. I almost DNF'd it, but I am overall glad that I finished the story. It shows a lot of promise for future novels!

The Serpent Called Mercy is a debut that shows a lot of promise - while I didn’t think it was a perfect novel, Roanne Lau shows off some excellent storytelling skills that took the story in directions I wasn’t expecting. It’s debuts like this that get me really excited for the future of the fantasy genre, as this is a very solid first novel!

I was eager to pick this book up on the basis of the comparisons it is drawing to big franchises, and I wanted to address how closely I felt it matched each of them:

Is it like The Witcher?: I definitely see the comparison here - lots of the monster battles are won with brains over brawn, and studying the creatures carefully for habits and weaknesses plays a key part in the narrative.

Is it like Squid Game?: Not really in my opinion. The ‘illegal’ nature of the ring fights felt a little shallow and not particularly secretive. The rich spectators watching the poorer contestants fighting definitely checks out, but it didn’t have the trademark horror theme I associate with Squid Game.

Is it like Slumdog Millionaire?: Yes, definitely! A poor Slumdog character shows off their skills to try and win an unfathomable fortune, while trying to work out who to trust in this new world.

Is it like The Hunger Games?: Kind of - in terms of character development, I do see a bit of Katniss Everdeen in the protagonist Lythlet, and the story does have an ever present theme of overthrowing a corrupt system.

My drawbacks in this novel that prevent it getting 5 stars mainly come down to pacing, which felt a little all over the place personally. The novel did a good job in stopping the battle scenes getting repetitive, but with some chapters covering several months and others several minutes felt jarring. The worldbuilding exposition also felt a bit clunky and unnatural at the start, where lots of information on the wider world is imparted and then never returned to. If there are future books set in this world, I’d love to see other parts of the world incorporated, particularly where the monsters from the ring call home. As negatives go, they weren’t bad enough to knock my enjoyment of the book, and at its best the action scenes and character twists were electrifying!

This author has a lot of potential, and it was an entertaining read for a debut novel.

The characters were decently fleshed out and entertaining to read. Even if they were not nice characters, you were still invested in their actions, and the world around them. It's a shame that the world itself is not fleshed out more, because what we do see of it - a world of decay and beauty, a world of gods and wardens and a religion that seems to penetrate into most aspects of life - is incredible. There just isn't nearly enough to properly set the scene of the world and most of what is offered is given without and context. Which leads into my biggest issue with the book - the power the main character has. She can control reality (I think) for eight seconds. It's a divine, god given gift but the book does not explain enough. At one point its spoken of as a myth, but then a chapter or so later, she is able to use it, in full view of people. They are startled but then... accept it? Is it magic? Is it really that rare? Why does nobody care more or use it for their own benefit?

A lot of stuff is handwaved away; for example the main characters are given an advantage in the fighting ring, one that makes the ring master suspicious, and then we are just told that the main character said 'something' to belay his fears. It's a shame they are given that advantage, because the fights that they did without it really made the two leads shine, we got to see the MFC's smarts and how she used the world and her observations to solve a puzzle, they were enjoyable to read.

The ending might not be for everyone, but I actually enjoyed its bittersweet, realistic ending. This is an author I'm sure will grow in confidence and looking forward to their next book.

The Serpent Called Mercy is certainly a great debut! I loved the concept and the characters, and I genuinely found myself laughing at some of the interactions involving Shunvi and Ilden. The action was well written and kept me hooked, especially in the latter stages where the stakes were constant. The only letdown for me was that I personally found the first half of the book very heavy with rushed info-dumping, particularly in dialogue which felt very stilted and at times awkward to read. However, it didn’t stop me from enjoying the story, and these issues were mostly smoothed over in the latter half after the world had been established. Overall a nice fantasy read!

This was a solid book that I really enjoyed. It's a bit dark, at times, but it ends up being quite hopeful.

I enjoyed the friendship between the two main characters the most, and especially the character growth of the FMC. She had to make her mistakes to get there, but it was a good journey to go on.

The book didn't go in quite the direction I thought it was going to go in, I have to admit. I thought it was going to trend a little more towards the mythological rather than the political, but it didn't. Or maybe, it was a different kind of political than what I thought it would be. That's not bad, but it was surprising.

However, once I clocked on that it was the kind of political book that it was, it became somewhat predictable. That didn't make it any less enjoyable to read though.

I look forward to seeing more!

Two friends enter the undergeound world of monster fighting to clear their debts in this fantasy debut. An intriguing premise and a strong, poignant relationship between Desil and Lythlet, but unfortunately the book is let down by overwrought writing, underdeveloped world-building and a lack of focus on either the fights or the politics of the city. Not one for me.

The Serpent Called Mercy is truly a breath of fresh air in the fantasy world. When I saw this being pitched as The Witcher meets Squid Games, I was immediately sold. Illegal monster fighting?! Ok, you’ve got me there.

The world-building in this was beautifully crafted, allowing me to fully envelope myself in the story as I could perfectly envision everything that was happening in my head.

Our fmc Lythlet is stubborn, fierce and determined. Out of all the things I loved about this book, characters were the highlight for me, and Lythlet is the stand-out. If there’s one thing about her, it’s that she will never stop fighting for what is right, even if it means sacrificing everything.

A stunning debut novel peppered with themes of socioeconomics, corruption and political intrigue. A refreshing step away from the romantasy genre, perfect for those who prefer friendship over romance.

I would love to see this continue into a duet or a trilogy because I feel there is so much to be done with this world and Lythlet’s story. Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an advance copy.