Review of Of Flame and Fury by Mikayla Bridge
What happens when the roar of engines meets the crackling flames of mythical creatures? That’s precisely the magic Mikayla Bridge brings to life in Of Flame and Fury. From the moment I heard about this debut offering, the concept of phoenixes intertwined with high-stakes racing drew me in like a moth to a flame. As a book blogger, I’ve read my fair share of YA fantasies, but there was just something uniquely electrifying about this one.
Set on a breathtaking island where phoenix racing captures the hearts and dreams of its inhabitants, the story revolves around Kel Varra and her dedicated crew, The Howlers. When they face sudden upheaval, including the loss of key members, they grapple with the tense dynamics of relationships, sponsorships, and fierce competition. The plot rushes full-throttle from the very first chapter, leaving you breathless as you race through the pages.
At its core, Of Flame and Fury explores themes of loyalty, ambition, and the struggle between freedom and control, particularly when it comes to the majestic phoenixes. The underlying question of whether to tame these wild creatures or let them roam free resonated with me deeply. One quote that perfectly encapsulates this notion 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 relationship serves as a poignant reminder that true connections—whether among friends, rivals, or creatures—are built on respect and autonomy.
The writing style shines with vivid descriptions, especially in the exhilarating racing scenes. The organization of CAPR (the phoenix-racing regime) and how teams strategize is reminiscent of the structure seen in F1 racing, and the authenticity of the atmosphere pulls you right in. The action unfolds seamlessly, making it impossible to put the book down.
However, despite the electrifying premise and engaging prose, I found some areas could have been fleshed out further. The enemies-to-lovers arc between Kel and Coup felt somewhat rushed. At times, their animosity gave way to a romantic spark without sufficient buildup. I wished for more perspectives, perhaps a glimpse into Coup’s thoughts, that could have added depth to this transformative aspect of their relationship.
The supporting cast, particularly Dira and Bekn, offer a delightful found-family dynamic, infusing humor and warmth into tense moments. Dira’s witty remarks and Bekn’s steadfast support create a balanced, relatable crew that readers can’t help but root for.
And I would be remiss not to mention the side plot involving a deadly pandemic named AB, raised fascinating questions but left me with lingering uncertainties—something I hope might be addressed in potential sequels. Speaking of sequels… Of Flame and Fury sets the stage so deliciously for more that I find myself absolutely craving a second installment!
Overall, this debut is perfect for fans seeking fast-paced romantasy reads with a twist. If you love the adrenaline of racing combined with enchanting elements, then look no further. My rating? A solid 4.25 stars, nudged down to 4. As the summer heat settles in, this book is a perfect escape into a world where friendship, rivalry, and the fierce spirit of phoenixes collide.
Mikayla Bridge, you’ve got me hooked—let’s see where this journey of flame and fury takes us next!