I love the mixture of real world elements with fantasy. I did keep imaging the phoenixes as Chocbos from the Final Fantasy games (in my defense, there is racing in that too). This also felt like it was supposed an enemies to lovers but i feel like the original dislike/hate/enemies didnt have a strong enough backstory behind it to warrant the "hate" but once it was evident they did like each other, that felt natural to the story and flowed seamlessly. I do find that this book is a perfect YA introduction to fantasy since it has so many real world references such as social media (with the video views) and things like the Tele-coms. I also like the research on AB, I do hope there will be a second book to dive deeper into that research Cristo was doing.

A unique take on the Phoenix and a thrilling debut fantasy. I was quickly drawn into the world that was created and couldn't stop reading.

**Book Review: *Of Flame and Fury* by Mikayla Bridge**
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ (3.7/5)

Mikayla Bridge’s *Of Flame and Fury* is a fiery blend of adrenaline-pumping phoenix races, complex world-building, and character-driven plotlines that takes flight in a genre full of spark. While it doesn't lean into the "spicy" side of fantasy romance, this book burns in its own way—with tension, danger, and high-stakes intrigue.

At the heart of the story is Kel Varra, a fierce and determined heroine whose bond with her phoenix, Savita, brings warmth and heart to the narrative. She’s thrust into a deadly competition where survival means more than just finishing first—it means outmaneuvering secrets, political games, and betrayal. The races are thrilling, gritty, and pulse-pounding, delivering moments that make you hold your breath.

One of the standout elements is the world-building. Bridge crafts a vivid, smoldering island setting where fire is currency and danger is constant. The backdrop is rich with magic, rebellion, and conspiracy, with just enough tech intrigue to add an edge. The slow-burn pacing in the first half gives way to a tension-filled second act that makes the wait worthwhile.

The dynamic between Kel and Warren “Coup” Coupers simmers with that classic enemies-to-allies friction. While there’s little to no spice—barely even a kiss—the banter is sharp, and their chemistry adds emotional depth to the plot.

This is very much a plot-forward novel. Themes of found family, survival, and sacrifice run deep, and while romance takes a back seat, the emotional beats still hit. It's a story built on grit and heart rather than steam, which may not satisfy readers looking for heat, but will absolutely captivate those who love layered fantasy with a strong heroine and immersive world.

**Bottom line:** *Of Flame and Fury* is not a spicy fantasy romance—but it doesn’t need to be. It shines with immersive world-building, high-octane action, and a heroine who’s as brave as she is battle-worn. A solid 3.7/5 stars. Here’s hoping for more in the series!

Book Review: Of Flame and Fury by Mikayla Bridge
Phoenix races? YES, PLEASE.
This book throws you straight into a world where danger meets adrenaline—survival is the name of the game, and every race could be your last.

The world-building is next-level—vivid, imaginative, and packed with secrets, politics, and pulse-pounding intrigue. You won’t want to leave.

Kel is ready to risk it all. Coup? Irresistible, stubborn, and the perfect match for that fiery enemies-to-lovers tension. The banter between them? So good!

If you’re a fan of high-stakes fantasy with heart, heat, and unexpected twists—you’re in for a wild ride. I can’t wait to see where this series goes next!

4+⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨/5

Of Flame and Fury was a fun read. I'd love to see a phoenix!! I found myself rooting for Phoenix freedom throughout the book.

Thank you so much for the chance to read and review! I realllyyyy wanted to like this book. I knew it wasn’t going to be like fourth wing level but with it in the description I figured it would still be good. Unfortunately for me I really just couldn’t get into it due to the racing. I think if you love more action based books this would be a good read but unfortunately just wasn’t mine.

A very neutral 3 star rating as I DNF at ~25%. The premise is interesting and the writing is fine, I'm just not really vibing with it right now. I'll come back at a later date.

Of Flame and Fury was an absolute thrill ride! The world-building and pacing start off as a slow burn, but around the halfway mark, the story explodes with twists and high-stakes tension. I loved the gritty phoenix races, the sharp banter between Kel and Coup, and how the plot kept me guessing. This was a fantastic debut—I’m seriously hoping it becomes a series!

I love this book. I was a little hesitant at first, but wow, it blew me away.. The detailing and the work out into this is amazing. This author really nailed this. I just want to kiss this book and cuddle it haha. Very well done, this author should be very proud of this book and I can't wait for book 2!

4 stars ⭐️ Action, romance, and fantasy! It delivers Fourth Wing x Hunger Games vibes. The first half of the book is slow paced but the second half was fast. It took me a long time to get into the world and characters but once I did, it was a great read.

What to expect:
- enemies to lovers
- fake dating
- phoenix racing
- found family

Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

This was fast paced, exciting, and an overall fun read! I enjoyed the phoenix racing, like how cool is that? There’s high stakes, romance, and awesome competitions. It was entertaining and the overall story was well written. I had never read anything like it. It has a mix of modern day technology with fantastical elements. Was a very interesting concept and the execution was good. Would definitely recommend.

**Of Flame and Fury** is an explosive thrill ride from start to finish—part adrenaline-fueled phoenix race, part slow-burn romance, and all heart. Set on a smoldering island where fire is currency and danger is sport, the story grips you with high-stakes competition and a fiercely driven heroine in Kel Varra. Her bond with her phoenix, Savita, is as touching as it is powerful, and the chemistry between her and Warren “Coup” Coupers crackles with intensity. Their dynamic—equal parts rivalry and reluctant alliance—adds heat to an already volatile world. What really elevates the narrative is its layered plotting: behind the breakneck races lies a deeper conspiracy full of tech intrigue and political tension. The writing is bold and immersive, with visceral action scenes, swoon-worthy moments, and emotional depth that lingers. *Of Flame and Fury* is the perfect storm of magic, romance, and rebellion—fiery, fierce, and unforgettable.

The plot is good and characters well developed. There are parts that I think are too adult for a YA book.

This was a really cool and unique story. I loved the racing aspect. Every once and awhile it got a little slow but overall it was a fun read. I loved the phoenixes!

Thank you so much to the author, Netgalley, and the publisher for providing this ARC.

Loved this fiery YA fantasy, loved how unique the plot was considering this is an overcrowded genre, fast paced and action packed with enemies to lovers, sold! Really enjoyed reading this I cant wait to read more by this author!

This book was one full of trials and a journey the FMC does out of desperation. Little did she know that the path that seemed the easiest really lead her down a road there was no turning back.

There is found family, magical creatures, danger around every corner, banter and an ending that will make you very curious about what is to come next.

There is no spice and very little parts that have to do with even kissing but very plot based.

Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group for an ARC of this unique, fiery story that is out July 8. Flame and Fury is Mikayla Bridge’s debut novel and the first in the series. We are introduced to phoenix racing and it’s non stop from the beginning! If you love strong female characters, enemies to lovers, and intense races, this is the book for you

Kel has a phoenix but she needs a rider in order to participate in the wildly dangerous phoenix races. Enter Coup, the reckless but talented riddler that Kel cannot stand!

This book was everything I want in a fantasy, with good world building and brilliant characters. I loved every page, and once I'd finished I immediately bought the beautiful first edition because I just had to own a copy!

Thank you to the publisher for sending a copy for review

What a ride! Every competition had me on the edge of my seat. This is well written and easy to follow along. I love Kel Varra. Her determination is amazing! Coup is something else. The whole enemies/rivals to lovers trope was nicely done. The tension was tangible.

This book has a lot of fun things going for it. The phoenix racing was such an interesting concept and the world around it was fascinating. I enjoyed following Kel and her team as they went through the plot.
However, I will say it felt a bit slow in parts which made me feel like I needed to push through.
But overall, I would say it was a fun read.

Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan for letting me read this early!