The Phoenix Keeper by S A MacLean

The Phoenix Keeper by S A MacLean

Since her first novel was published in 2024, S A MacLean has started a romantasy series complete with monsters, bomb smuggling, and revolution called the Beasts of the Void series. She has also taught environmental science to college students, so as you can see - she refuses to be kept confined. S A MacLean's debut novel, The Phoenix Keeper, is a cozy fantasy novel with slight mysterious vibes and a bevy of fantastical creatures. It deals with gun violence, animal trafficking, and animal cruelty.

Aila has dreamed of becoming a phoenix keeper since she first saw a Silimalo phoenix at the zoo as a child and after lots of hard work and years of schooling, her dream is a reality. She gets to take care of Rubra, the lone Silimalo phoenix at the San Tamculo Zoo, as well as a collection of other sassy, mischievous animals along with her best friend Tanya. When tragedy strikes and a new clutch of baby phoenixes is stolen from a different zoo, Aila petitions to have the remaining phoenix transferred as a mate for Rubra and (surprisingly) is approved. Now she has to navigate dating the flusteringly good looking dragon keeper, Connor, work closely with the keeper who has been placed in charge of public relations for the phoenix program - and who happens to be her nemesis - Luciana, all while making sure her phoenixes are well cared for and safe from danger. A tall order for Aila, who can't think of anything scarier than talking to people.

This book did not catch me at first, which surprised me considering it seems like it would be right up my alley. But I found Aila to be incredibly annoying, potentially top five most annoying main characters and I've read a lot of books in my life. That being said, she eventually grew on me. I still found her annoying but in more of a kid sister, I'm really rooting for you to do better kind of way. The writing was not my favorite. It tried to pull off quirky and snarky dialogue, but it felt more childish than witty. But the setting was wonderful. The author does a great job of describing the different fantasy animals you come in contact with, each with traits and personality of their own. And I did enjoy the plot, although Aila did have me groaning at times with some of her inane decisions.

All in all, I'm giving The Phoenix Keeper by S A MacLean 3.75 stars out of 5. I didn't think it was anything special but I did love reading about the animals in the zoo. I think with some more polish, it could have been really good.

For more from the author, check out https://authorsamaclean.com/

Pairs well with stuffed jalapenos (also called jalapeno poppers) and knowing what constitutes "meat".

My favorite quote:

"'What if I trip into the exhibit? That would be a show. Maisie eating me in front of everyone!'

'She would never.'

'She's a carnivorous horse, Tanya!'"