Serpent & Dove Summary

Artistic interpretation of themes and motifs of the book Serpent & Dove by Shelby Mahurin
One-line Summary:

Serpent & Dove is a captivating fantasy novel that follows the forbidden love story between a witch and a witch hunter in a world filled with magic, intrigue, and political turmoil.

The World of Serpent & Dove:

In the world of Serpent & Dove, witches and witch hunters are sworn enemies. The story is set in the city of Cesarine, where the Church of Belterra reigns supreme and hunts down witches, believing them to be evil and dangerous. The witches, on the other hand, live in secret, practicing their magic in hidden covens. The city is divided, with tensions running high between the two factions. The world is richly imagined, with a medieval-inspired setting and a complex hierarchy of power.

Lou and Reid: An Unlikely Love Story:

The heart of Serpent & Dove lies in the forbidden romance between Lou, a powerful witch, and Reid, a devout witch hunter. Lou is a fierce and independent young woman who has been on the run from her coven for years. She finds herself in a precarious situation when she is forced to marry Reid, a stoic and righteous witch hunter. Their marriage is a sham, a cover for Lou’s true identity, but as they spend more time together, their feelings begin to change. Their love story is filled with tension, as they navigate their conflicting loyalties and the dangerous world they live in.

Intrigue, Betrayal, and Political Turmoil:

Serpent & Dove is not just a love story; it is also a tale of political intrigue and betrayal. As Lou and Reid’s relationship develops, they become entangled in a web of secrets and power struggles. The Church of Belterra is not as righteous as it seems, and there are hidden agendas at play. The characters must navigate treacherous waters, unsure of who they can trust. The story is filled with twists and turns, keeping readers on the edge of their seats.

Key Takeaways:
  • The power of love to transcend boundaries and change perspectives.
  • The importance of questioning authority and not blindly following tradition.
  • The complexity of good and evil and the gray areas in between.
  • The strength of friendship and loyalty in the face of adversity.
  • The consequences of prejudice and the dangers of judging others based on appearances.

“There was no one way to be a girl, Tayla had said. And there was no one way to be a witch, either.”

In conclusion, Serpent & Dove is a captivating fantasy novel that combines romance, magic, and political intrigue. The world-building is immersive, and the characters are well-developed and compelling. The forbidden love story between Lou and Reid is the heart of the book, but it is also a story about questioning authority, the complexities of good and evil, and the power of friendship. Serpent & Dove is a must-read for fans of fantasy and romance alike.

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