Review of Of Flame and Fury by Mikayla Bridge
It’s not every day that a new YA fantasy debut manages to ignite my passion for reading again, but Of Flame and Fury by Mikayla Bridge is a stunning exception. Right from the moment I heard about phoenix racing on an enchanting island, I was entranced—and let’s be honest, who wouldn’t be? I’m here to tell you, this book is not just hype; it’s a flame that burns brightly and will linger in your mind long after the last page. Huge thanks to NetGalley, Mikayla Bridge, and Macmillan Children’s Publishing for my eARC in exchange for an honest review.
The story centers on Kel Varra, a fierce and determined member of The Howlers, a phoenix-racing team competing in the CAPR organization. From the very first chapter, I felt the adrenaline rush that comes with the world of high-speed racing—imagine F1 racing but elevated by the magic of phoenixes. The stakes are high, and with a billionaire mogul offering a lifeline, Kel is pulled into a web of conspiracies that force her to confront her deepest fears and desires, especially regarding the fiery relationship she shares with her rival, Coup.
Kel’s character is a compelling mix of strength and vulnerability, driven by a fierce love for her phoenix, Savita. The friendships in The Howlers are beautifully crafted, with each character adding depth to the narrative—Dira’s wit, Rahn’s dedication to the crew, and Bekn’s dependable nature create a dynamic group that feels authentic. I found myself cheering for them in their racetrack battles, while also appreciating the nuanced discussions about freedom and control regarding the phoenixes, echoing larger themes about wildlife and coexistence.
One quote that resonated with me is:
“Savita owed Kel nothing beyond what she chose to bestow. She was the rightful god of this island, and Kel considered herself lucky that she’d known Sav at all.”
This captures the essence of their bond and the overarching themes about agency and autonomy that Bridge explores throughout the narrative. The exploration of the ethics surrounding taming phoenixes adds layers to the plot that caught me off guard—in the best possible way.
While the pacing is exhilarating, not all aspects of the relationship between Kel and Coup felt entirely fleshed out. The enemies-to-lovers trope has great potential, but at times, it felt abrupt—almost like a light switch was flipped. I craved more interaction between them that could have deepened their transformation and connection. I believe that including Coup’s perspective could have offered a richer dynamic and clarified some of the shifts in their relationship.
The world-building, particularly the dynamics of the CAPR organization, was intriguing yet left me wanting to learn more about rival teams and their backstories. There’s a tantalizing hint of mystery and competition that I hope to explore more in potential sequels.
As I neared the end, I was left with questions—not just about the characters but also overarching societal themes linked to a pandemic called AB affecting the island, which added an unexpected layer of urgency. The absence of the epilogue in my ARC had me racing to my local bookstore, desperate to uncover the final threads of the story. It only fueled my desire for a sequel—please, Mikayla Bridge, say there’s more to come!
In conclusion, if you’re in the mood for a gripping mix of high-stakes racing, captivating friendships, and intriguing ethical dilemmas, look no further than Of Flame and Fury. This book is perfect for fans of YA fantasy eager for a fast-paced, romantic read. As for me? I’m left breathless, exhilarated, and impatiently waiting for what’s next from this promising debut author.