Thank you @netgallary and @dawbooks for this ARC, all view my own.

"We're slumdogs living deep in debt..all roads lead to despair..."
Lythlet and her friend Desil are trying to survive in the harsh city of Setgad. Between mounting debts and poverty, they take a chance and become the new combatants in the underground combat ring fighting sun cursed monsters. They meet the baffling Master Dorthilos, adorable duo Shunvi and Ilden, I imagine them as whimsically odd characters which I would also find in a famous Susanna Clarke book.

"There is nothing more dangerous than hope"
Throughout the narrative Lythlet and Desil leaned into their morals as guided by perceived justice and religious teachings, but also by circumstance of being at risk of homelessness, in debt and being 'unregistered' from society. Lau seems to have talent for weaving in social commentary within the story. My heart ached for Lythlets challenges, self doubt and survival instinct: this is a story of displacement, but also of friendship and growth.

I have been deep diving into the fantasy and dystopian genres, so I couldn't resist this character driven story. There are good attempts at world building through character dialogue, the description of the cosmoscape, Lythlets' appraisal of her surroundings and circumstances, all of which I felt could be developed in richer detail as Lau develops her narrative.

Outstanding quote
"They genuinely don't consider your dignity to be as important as their entertainment".


Overall, this was a great debut into the fantasy genre and I am looking forward to the next title in this duology.
Thank you to @netgallary and @dawbooks for this e-arc, a really excellent pick for dystopian fantasy readers. If you are edging towards diversifying your book reads, this is a brilliant first step 💕

“The Serpent Called Mercy” is about a deadly contest fighting beasts cursed by the sun, inspired by Malaysian and Chinese mythology. Lythlet and her best friend Desil enter this contest to escape a life of poverty and desperation. However, the book failed right out of the gate in making me feel invested in either character, let alone their friendship - I just didn’t buy it. The worldbuilding was pretty good, but not enough to make up for the lack of interest I felt for the characters and the central conflict.

I cannot believe this is a debut novel, it’s absolutely a powerhouse of beautiful writing and entrancing world building. Without giving too much away, the intricacies of the games/trials our band of main characters face combined with the political system set up in this world alone are a feat. I think the most notable facet of this book is the development of each character and how easily you find yourself rooting for them each. This felt like the first time I read The Hunger Games and I wish I could re-read it for the first time again. Thank you so much for the opportunity to read and review The Serpent Called Mercy, I’ve certainly found a new favorite author.

I received a copy of this book from DAW Publishing via Netgalley in exchange for a fair review. Publish date March 25th.

I requested this book because I was intrigued by the Malaysian Chinese inspired setting and gladiatorial focused plot. In The Serpent Called Mercy, Lythlet and her best friend Desil are desperately poor and struggling to repay their punishingly high debt to a usurer. Joining the Conquessor Games to fight cursed animals might pay enough to allow them to escape--but the manipulative Matchmaster has taken an interest in Lythlet, and is set on entangling her in the city's underworld...

My favorite part of The Serpent Called Mercy was the characters. Gladiatorial games are a hot plot element, and I was a little worried that Lythlet would turn out to be the tiresome Celaena Sardothien type--the most attractive to men, the best ever at fighting, the most feminine, constantly making little quips... But prickly, awkward Lythlet isn't like that at all. She's a clever accountant with a childhood stutter and a near-Holmesian eye for detail. There's a great scene early on in the book where Lythlet gets a glimpse of the matchmaster's notes on her star potential, and finds that he sees her as dead-eyed person who speaks strangely. The heart of the book is Lythlet's completely platonic relationship with her childhood friend, Desil. Desil is an interesting character in his own right, with his pious devotion to the Wardens, the saintlike intercessors to the creators, and his devotion to nonviolence to the point of financial ruin. It's very refreshing to read a book where there's no romantic plotline whatsoever, and it's emphasized that the most important bond for both Lythlet and Desil is to each other.

This book is set entirely within the multicultural city-state where our protagonists live. The glimpse we get into the glowing beehive lamp maintenance at the beginning of the book is fascinating. The focus on the punishing cycle of grinding poverty that traps Lythlet and Desil was also well done, and it was a nice touch that the bill that initially got them into debt was medical bills they couldn't afford. However, my overall impression of the worldbuilding was that it was a bit spare, like an underdecorated room. There are some really great details, but almost every element mentioned becomes plot relevant later. There isn't much of a sense of a wider world outside of what's directly relevant to the protagonists. It doesn't help that the book tends towards slightly wooden, over-ornate prose that sometimes falls flat. The narrative voice can't quite pull off phrases like "Indeed, there was conflict scrawled across his mien."

I also found that the plot tended to resolve conflict too easily, which spoiled the tension a bit. Major plot points are resolved completely offpage, and particularly the political elements are a bit too tidily disposed. I can accept two youths from the slums sucessfully taking out ferocious monsters with no training, but I can't accept political intrigue, slumlord bosses, and blackmail being that quickly and neatly solved.

A book that refreshingly centers platonic relationships in a unique setting, but sometimes resolves conflicts a bit too easily. Still, The Serpent Called Mercy was a compelling debut, and I'll be keeping an eye out for whatever Lau writes next.

3/5⭐

The story was interesting. I liked to read about the monsters. I would like to see more of the magic - seems like it was left behind (forgotten) by the author.

I couldn't find a lot of world building and I felt lost at some point.

However there are great characters - some really smart ones. Action. And no romance - thank you! It was going to be really weird with romance in the story.

Once you pas one third of the book the pace picks up and it becomes much easier for reading.

I was going initially to rate it 4 stars but I had to drop one as the is packed with so much and feels undeveloped. Maybe series is more suitable.

I still recommend the book as it something different from the general fantasies that flooded recently.

Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

I found this book a little hard to get into, it dragged in a few places but I think that's due to the writing style, and I just prefer fast paced books. The theme of friendship was something I really enjoyed, but I did finish feeling a bit teased by the potential of romance between some of the other characters. I wish there were more romantic scenes. But then again, I am just someone who enjoys a romance. This books main strength is it's unique world and storyline, I haven't read anything quite like it before, and that did keep me hooked when the plot didn't. There was some great commentary on classism and discrimination, something that some other books don't handle quite as well. I believe it was very well done and was a accurate reflection of some people's reality and/or history.
Overall I enjoyed reading this, especially thanks to the beautiful prose.

This one blew me away! A debut this strong is a true gem!

I loved everything about it. Be it the pacing which was slow and fast and sometimes I was wondering where it would go but then I remembered, I follow someone's life so there are streched out patches.
The protagonist does not suddenly become a loveinterest. TYFM.
Often you cannot trust the narrator.
Or the character.

The world building. I was so sad when we came to the pup. But then there was the other puppy and. Oh this has my heart.

10/10

Of course I can't resist a book that is pitched as "The Witcher" meets "Squid Game" in a Malaysian Chinese-inspired setting. Sounds almost too good to be true and maybe it really is, because after reading I couldn't agree less with these comparisons. I guess "Squid Game" refers to participating in a deadly game to clear of life-destroying debt, and "The Witcher" is about the monster fighting, but otherwise "The Serpent Called Mercy" is so unlike these stories that the pitch is basically misleading. I did enjoy this book nonetheless, so I'm not too bitter about it, but keep that in mind if that's what got your attention. It's actually an action-focused novel about monster-fighting as a sport, gladiator style. A pair of so called Conquessors is thrown into an arena with some weapons, and a wild, magical beast is unleashed upon them. Spectators bet on their success or demise, and a lot of money can be earned in the process, but some participants only earn death. After losing her job (again), protagonist Lythlet and her lifelong friend Desil enter the sport out of desperation, to finally clear of their debt and take a chance at a better life.

My favorite part of this book were definitely the matches themselves. To win the big jackpot, Lythlet and Desil have to compete in twelve matches over the course of one year, always battling a different creature. Some matches were only mentioned briefly, but the ones that happened on page were thrilling to read (and not gonna lie, the last match made my jaw drop). All the beasts had different abilities, and it was important to figure out how to fight one at all. The matches felt like little riddles that needed solving and were not about pure strength. I really liked Lythlet's analytical approach to fighting, and the way Desil complimented her with fighting experience and strength. Lythlet grows more ambitious and violent with every match they win and is soon spiraling into the criminal activities of the city's underworld. The way she was getting greedier herself while also being manipulated into continuing fighting was very well done in my opinion. Her character was truly interesting, because she always tries to justify her actions with the possibility of a better future for her loved ones while she might actually be harming them. The portrayal of different relationships was great as well, especially since there is no romance to be found in this book. I love to see it.

On the negative side of things I do have to say that the worldbuilding was truly underdeveloped, with the story only taking place in one city and sparsely mentioning anything that goes beyond it's borders. The beasts were from the wilds for instance, but no further information is given about that, and there were Gods who can grant blessings through prayers, but magic was rarely ever discussed. Instead, the book spent some time on explaining the city's politics, but all of that basically went over my head without ever catching my attention. I think more worldbuilding could have elevated the story from good to great, but as an action-focused book it was still very enjoyable for me.

Huge thanks to NetGalley and DAW for providing a digital arc in exchange for an honest review.

Roanne Lau’s *The Serpent Called Mercy* is an extraordinary fantasy novel that weaves intricate world-building, compelling character arcs, and a perfectly paced plot into a story that keeps readers utterly enthralled. From the very first chapter, Lau draws you into a richly imagined world, balancing lush details with a sense of foreboding that leaves you eager to uncover its secrets.

The pacing is masterfully executed—every scene feels purposeful, building tension and intrigue without ever losing momentum. Lau strikes a delicate balance between quieter, introspective moments and high-stakes action, ensuring that the story’s emotional beats hit just as hard as its thrilling twists.

The characters are a standout element of the novel. Lau crafts complex, multi-dimensional protagonists whose growth is as compelling as the plot itself. The central figure’s journey—both internal and external—is deeply resonant, while the supporting cast adds layers of nuance and richness to the narrative. Relationships feel authentic and evolve organically, enhancing the emotional stakes of the story.

The world-building is nothing short of breathtaking. Lau has created a setting teeming with mythology, culture, and history that feels both immersive and believable. Every detail, from the vivid landscapes to the intricate societal structures, enhances the story and makes the reader feel fully transported into this fantastical realm.

*The Serpent Called Mercy* is a masterclass in storytelling, blending heart, suspense, and imagination into a tale that lingers long after the final page. Roanne Lau has crafted a truly unforgettable novel, perfect for fans of deeply layered fantasy. I highly recommend this book for fantasy fans!

I can imagine this book won’t be everyone’s favourite, but for me it was a breath of fresh air.

Forget rushed instalove romances, forget straight forward worlds, simple writing, beautiful and charismatic Mary Janes - The Serpent Called Mercy has gorgeous prose, no romance to be found (hell yeah), a stubborn, socially awkward protagonist, and lore so deep that we barely scratch the surface in this brilliant debut.

Granted, it’s not a perfect book, but it sparked that thrill in me, you know the one when you just instantly and deeply click with a piece of art and you know you’re going to love it? I sincerely hope Roanne Lau plans to write more books in this universe, I need to know so much more about the cosmosphere and the Wardens and other Sun-blest races across the sea.

Many thanks to NetGalley and DAW for the ARC!

Roanne Lau’s debut novel, A Serpent Called Mercy, is a bold and ambitious tale that offers a mix of high-stakes action and heartfelt emotional depth. While not without its imperfections, the book delivers an unforgettable exploration of friendship, survival, and societal disparity.

The world-building is a mixed bag. On one hand, Lau introduces an intriguing society full of political corruption, economic strife, and mythical creatures. On the other, the details of this universe—particularly its magic system and pantheon—feel underdeveloped, leaving readers with more questions than answers. That said, the glimpses we do get are compelling enough to spark the imagination, even if they fall short of being fully immersive.

The heart of the story lies in its characters. Lythlet, our protagonist, is a refreshing departure from traditional fantasy heroines. She’s clever, flawed, and utterly determined to rise above her circumstances. Her friendship with Desil, the gentle “golden retriever” of the story, is the emotional cornerstone of the book. Their bond is tender and raw, navigating the complexities of loyalty, trust, and betrayal with authenticity that’s rarely seen in fantasy.

Lau’s decision to focus on platonic love rather than romance is a standout choice, making the book a refreshing break from the romance-heavy narratives often found in the genre. Lythlet and Desil’s relationship feels real and lived-in, culminating in moments that are both heartwarming and heartbreaking.

The plot is a relentless ride, taking readers from gritty underground arenas to moments of quiet introspection. The action sequences, while engaging, sometimes feel rushed, leaving little room to fully savor the stakes. Similarly, the political intrigue and societal commentary—though poignant—are underexplored, leaving the resolution feeling somewhat abrupt.

Still, the novel shines in its themes. Lau weaves a powerful commentary on poverty, the cost of survival, and the societal structures that keep people trapped. Lythlet’s journey is as much about fighting mythical beasts as it is about confronting the human monsters of her world.

For a debut, A Serpent Called Mercy is an impressive start. It’s a book that dares to challenge traditional fantasy tropes, offering a story that’s equal parts action-packed and emotionally resonant. While it may leave readers craving more detail in its world-building, it more than makes up for it with its strong characters and poignant themes. I’ll be eagerly awaiting Lau’s next work, hoping to see her build on the promising foundation she’s laid here.

This would be a good recommendation for someone looking to venture into fantasy. I would love if this had more about the magic system

This book sadly wasn't for me. I had a hard time committing to it, and ended up dnf it. I might pick it up at a later time to see if my mood enjoys it more by then

The Serpent Called Mercy has an interesting premise. Take a fantasy world where the poor are kept even poorer by manipulative money lenders and gamblers and the only way to financial recover to become a thief, participating in brawling or become a challenger in a 12 month contest where duos fight fantastical and mystical beasts.
Unfortunately the execution of this book doesn’t pay off. While the main character, Lythlet, has promise no else in this world is interesting at all. Lythlet is logical and well read, she excels at mental games and maths but you know to counter balance having a brain she has no looks and gets to be called worse than plain right to her face. Her partner in the games, her very best friend and the reason she is fighting for financial freedom, Desil is so one note that there is no real motivation to care about him at all. The most we get to know is that he used to be a brawler and now he is religious. If you don’t catch this point the first time it is made then don’t worry because it will be reiterated several more times.
Thank you to NetGalley and DAW for the opportunity to read and review this book but I cannot recommend this book at all. This is getting at best 2⭐️ DNF at 35%

While this book is definitely not perfect, it had me caught in it's grip. The main character was written so well, I loved how real all the relationships felt and how real the conflicts were.

I love a protagonist who's socially weird and funny looking, but her plot isn't to become pretty or socially adept, she learns to be confident the way she is, and that's so beautiful to me. I wish we would've gotten more on the world building aspect though.

Thank you to Netgalley for this ARC!

I was so excited for this one when I first heard but overall I feel this one fell flat for me. From tone, to characters and the idea of monsters not being present - this really did not hit quite right. The book takes place over a year span and I feel like a lot of the events were skimmed over and not developed.

It's not a book I hated, but also I book I didn't love. It's a standalone novel in the end so it needed more development for me.

Like most of the population of Southern Setgad, Lythlet is very poor and, with her friend Desil, she has to figure out a way to pay a debt that her meager salary cannot cover. Things only worsen when she has to leave her job as a bookkeeper after her employer turns violent - like many others before him.

Then, Lythlet finds a handbill promising a quick way to gain riches: conquessoring, a bloodsport which involves battling sun-cursed beasts and betting spectators. With Desil's prior experience as a brawler and Lythlet's skills with spears, they are convinced this could be the way to free themselves of the debt and to make their dreams of a better life a reality.

As they successfully win their battles, Lythlet finds herself entangled in the political intrigues of Setgad and Desil finds himself at odds with the religious vows of peace he made after quitting brawling.

This book left me with really mixed feelings.

On one hand, I really enjoyed the worldbuilding and the political awareness woven throughout. A lot of Setgad's social structures mirror that of our real world and it was nice to have the characters being aware of and calling out the injustices and violence brought on by capitalism.

Through Desil, we also have an interesting exploration of his relationship to religion in a context that often has him acting against the principles he believes in.

On the other hand, though I was really interested in these aspects of the book, I felt like they really fell short of my expectations.

The worldbuilding is very dense and yet never really developed. I spent a lot of time trying to really understand it and in the end, it wasn't as relevant as I'd thought it would be. Same thing with the religious system.

The political aspect, though I appreciate its' being explicitly acknowledged by the characters, sometimes felt a little too on the nose. I just feel like it would've been more impactful if some things had been less spelled out and left to the reader to reflect upon.

The plot itself, while it is fairly eventful, drags a lot in the middle which also impacted my interest in the book. There was a bit too much running in circles in between the battles and Dothilos's "lessons" for a while, and the dialogues being long-winded added to the impression of unnecessary slow-ness.

The characters, while interesting, often felt flat, not because they are flat per se but I think they were just "drowned" by the complexity and heaviness of all the other aspects of the book.

In the end, I feel like this book still has its' audience, it is just unfortunately not me (though with a bit more editing I would've liked it more, much more). With that being said, I still feel like it is a debut that shows great ability to build interesting, complex intrigues, worlds and characters. I'll be looking forward to what the author comes up with next.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the e-ARC.

3.5 ⭐️
Lythlet and Desil are poor af bff's who sign up to fight some crazy beasts to try and get out of the crushing debt that they are drowning in. In doing so, they end up being forced into unethical situations and having their morals tested against their survival. They do happen to make some great friendships along the way though.

The world building in this story was a bit intense at times, but really interesting. I do wish there was a bit more exploration of the magical side of things, but it wasn't lacking to the point of confusion or anything. There are a lot of heavy sociopolitical topics in this, with scummy politicians, discrimination, abuse, the effects of poverty and capitalism, etc. But there are also lightning-bees and dogs! And despite the heavy topics, i didn't find it super depressing, thanks to the adventurous aspects and side characters (Ilden especially brought some light comedic relief)

The middle kind of dragged a bit, I think the pacing could've been a bit better, but it wasn't enough to make me consider DNFing or anything. I also liked that this was two childhood friends, because platonic friendships are not always the focal relationship in books and it's just nice to see.

Overall, a great debut, and I would definitely venture into another world by Lau.

There was much that I enjoyed about this book. The world building felt seamless, easy, and unique, and the characters were interesting and fun. Lythlet in particular was an intriguing main character, and I enjoyed being surprised by her throughout the book.

My main criticism comes to the pacing of the book. I'd have liked to see more of the non-conquesting conflicts earlier on the page. As it was, I didn't feel like they had enough time to breathe, and I didn't find myself as invested in how that would play out.

While I really enjoyed the beginning of this book, after that it just became frankly eh. Just… so eh.