Scan barcode
A review by bandysbooks
The Phoenix Keeper by S.A. MacLean
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
After some really deep and emotional reads, I was looking for something light and fluffy to cleanse the palette. This is described as being for fans of House In The Cerulean Sea and Remarkably Bright Creatures, both of which I enjoyed, so I thought this might be just what I needed. I’m pleased to say that I genuinely enjoyed this.
The premise is that our MC is the Phoenix keeper at the local zoo, but their breeding program has long since been defunct. When a robbery at another zoo leaves the breeding program in danger, our MC steps up and suggests her zoo as the replacement. There’s just a few problems. The Phoenix center is decrepit and needs major updates in an insanely short period of time. But worse than that, the potential breeding program thrusts our MC into the spotlight and she has crippling social anxiety. In order to save this endangered species and have a shot at her dreams, she must overcome both physical and emotional obstacles.
So if you’ve read my previous reviews, you’ll know that I really appreciate books with deep themstic exploration. This is meant to be a fluffy read, so I wasn’t expecting a ton of depth. I was really surprised with its portrayal and handling of mental health. Our MC deals with severe social anxiety, but the book also touches on depression and burnout. It didn’t lean into stereotypes either.
I also loved the diverse cast of characters. I can tell that MacLean did her research when writing this book. It wasn’t jarring or forcefully shoved into the book for brownie points. Instead, the characters felt fleshed out and genuine. This is, imo, a really solid example of how to provide a realistic cast of characters reflective of the real world within a fantasy world.
Another thing that I thought was really good in this book was the amount of info about Phoenixes, griffins, kelpies, dragons, and other mythical animals. It really made the zoo environment come to life and helped me immerse in the world.
I’m typically not big into romance and there is a significant romance plot. It’s even a trope that I don’t traditionally enjoy, but I will concede in this instance that I did enjoy it. This is very sweet romance and its given plenty of time to develop over the course of the story. It felt closer to what real life love can be like.
All in all, I’m really happy that I picked this book up. It was just the right mix of fuzzy, cozy, and a touch of deep themes to make for a satisfying read.
The premise is that our MC is the Phoenix keeper at the local zoo, but their breeding program has long since been defunct. When a robbery at another zoo leaves the breeding program in danger, our MC steps up and suggests her zoo as the replacement. There’s just a few problems. The Phoenix center is decrepit and needs major updates in an insanely short period of time. But worse than that, the potential breeding program thrusts our MC into the spotlight and she has crippling social anxiety. In order to save this endangered species and have a shot at her dreams, she must overcome both physical and emotional obstacles.
So if you’ve read my previous reviews, you’ll know that I really appreciate books with deep themstic exploration. This is meant to be a fluffy read, so I wasn’t expecting a ton of depth. I was really surprised with its portrayal and handling of mental health. Our MC deals with severe social anxiety, but the book also touches on depression and burnout. It didn’t lean into stereotypes either.
I also loved the diverse cast of characters. I can tell that MacLean did her research when writing this book. It wasn’t jarring or forcefully shoved into the book for brownie points. Instead, the characters felt fleshed out and genuine. This is, imo, a really solid example of how to provide a realistic cast of characters reflective of the real world within a fantasy world.
Another thing that I thought was really good in this book was the amount of info about Phoenixes, griffins, kelpies, dragons, and other mythical animals. It really made the zoo environment come to life and helped me immerse in the world.
I’m typically not big into romance and there is a significant romance plot. It’s even a trope that I don’t traditionally enjoy, but I will concede in this instance that I did enjoy it. This is very sweet romance and its given plenty of time to develop over the course of the story. It felt closer to what real life love can be like.
All in all, I’m really happy that I picked this book up. It was just the right mix of fuzzy, cozy, and a touch of deep themes to make for a satisfying read.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Panic attacks/disorders
Moderate: Gaslighting