Kiss of the Basilisk

Split or Swallow, Book 1

By: Lindsay Straube

Narrated by: Elena Wolfe, Auron Wood

From internet sensation Lindsay Straube comes the first book in the sexy, biting Split or Swallow series, featuring dangerous basilisks, competitive seduction, and a love triangle that could destroy kingdoms.

Twenty-year-old Temperance Verus has never been kissed. But that's what the basilisk is for.

Along with thirteen other contestants, Tem must train with a basilisk to learn the power of seduction and win the prince's hand in marriage. When Tem is matched with Caspen, the Serpent King, she realizes she might actually stand a chance.

But with tensions rising between the basilisks and the humans, Tem is suddenly torn in two directions. As her bond with Caspen deepens, so does her connection with the prince. When she uncovers a terrible secret about the royal family, Tem finds herself caught between two worlds, neither of which she can survive without.

Contains mature themes.

©2024, 2025 Lindsay Straube (P)2024, 2025 Tantor Media

Unhinged and addicting

This book just brings me joy. I have read it twice and couldn’t wait to listen to it on audio. Tem’s character development is amazing. I already have the second book pre-ordered. 10/10 for smut with an actual plot you will love.

STEAMYY!!! Naughtiest I’ve ever read!!

Faster paced than most series. Seems to be moving along well - keeps me guessing - enjoyable! And the spicy scenes!!!! Omg! It’s got me weak in the knees!

Fun but frustrating

I really liked the writing style and the plot was fun but I just can’t get into the female lead, she’s disappointingly self absorbed and obtusely “innocent” to the ramifications of her actions. I’m not even done yet but I’m finding it increasingly difficult to to side with her, it makes her love seem fickle and undeserving

Kiss of the Basilisk

Kiss of the Basilisk doesn’t just bring the heat—it sets your whole soul on fire. This one served all the spice I craved, wrapped up in a story that actually makes you care. Dark, intense, and utterly unputdownable, it’s the kind of book that slithers under your skin and refuses to leave. If you love high-stakes passion with a side of danger, buckle up—this is a wild, sizzling ride. 🔥🐍💀

Disappointed in Narration

Was so excited for this book, I had it pre-ordered before the release date got switched then it came out. I was excited to finally listen to a book I have been wanting to read. The narration of the female was great at the start then after hearing it constantly I got bored and couldnt finish the book :( I was expecting a few chapters with the male narrator and I havent even heard his voice, Please react to this or do found it helpful thing if I should finish it

Slow burn

I was really iffy for the first many chapters but the deeper it got the better it got I’m not a fan of slow burn but I used my big girl money to buy it so I was going to finish the book and I’m so glad I did and bought the second before I was even close to being done with the first! 🤣👏🏻 This book was different for me not the typical normal read as I said I’m not a fan of slow burn I was ready to jump in the book and smack em around a bit tbh. Butttttttt the wait was worth it I just have no patience for it I’m not sorry thought!!!! This book had plot and it had the spicy 🌶️ author gave a cake and I ate it happily and left no crumbs!

Cringy, predictable, lame

Story sucked. The main character is frustrating. Toooo many sex scenes and I am one who loves smut. The concept of the story is cool but poorly through out. I found myself mostly frustrated, dissipated and annoyed while listening. Not an enjoyable read

Spicy but Not Great

I can’t recall being so annoyed by an FMC in all of my days. She was so aggravating, I nearly called it quits several times. Expected more from the way the booktok gals were going on and on about it. Kudos to the author for being brave enough to put her imagination out there but it was a “No” for me dawg.

I did actually like this book not just for the smut

I loved the overall story! I think it was very well written the spice was spicing! I don’t think there was too much of one thing, but I do love two princes and a girl!!!! Was kind of hoping for all three of them to hook up, but that’s OK. The ending was very happy ending and the epilogue blew my mind so I’m excited to hear the next book.! 5 stars all around

Spicy 🌶️🌶️ 🌶️

I had read the book and this audio is just as imagined. My head snapped back when hip action happened when you know you’ll know ouch!! This my favorite book for 2025 so far. A MUST LISTEN or READ!!!