Book Summary
In Of Flame and Fury, debut author Mikayla Bridge crafts a high-stakes YA fantasy where phoenix racing meets political conspiracy. Seventeen-year-old Kel Varra leads the Crimson Howlers, an underdog racing team on a fire-wreathed island. When their rider dies mid-race, Kel is forced to partner with arrogant rival Warren “Coup” Coupers—a collaboration that sparks both competitive fury and unexpected attraction. The story accelerates as Kel’s home burns down, pushing her into a dangerous deal with a tech mogul who covets her phoenix Savita’s magic.
Bridge balances breakneck racing sequences with deeper themes of colonialism and animal rights. While the 400-page novel delivers intense action, some readers note the enemies-to-lovers arc feels abrupt. The found-family dynamics of the Howlers and Kel’s bond with Savita—a phoenix who “answers to no one”—are standout elements.
Key Themes
Human-Animal Bonds: The ethical dilemma of taming phoenixes with magical collars drives the plot, culminating in Savita’s defiant autonomy. Bridge parallels this with Kel’s own struggle for independence.
Class & Power: The CAPR racing league mirrors real-world sports capitalism, where billionaire sponsors exploit athletes. Kel’s financial desperation adds grit to the glamorous races.
What Makes It Unique
Sport Fantasy Innovation: Bridge’s phoenix racing—with its tailored gear, team strategizing, and varied courses—feels as meticulously designed as F1. The “Win. Or Burn.” tagline underscores the lethal stakes.
Genre-Blending Tone: The novel merges Fourth Wing’s dragon-rider adrenaline with Iron Widow’s feminist edge. Reviews praise its “triple espresso” energy, though some wish for more romantic development.
Reader Reactions
Early reviewers call it “the hottest YA fantasy debut of the summer”, particularly praising Savita’s characterization. The unresolved epilogue has sparked sequel speculation. Critiques focus on the AB pandemic subplot’s unclear transmission rules.
With a 4.2/5 average from 700+ Goodreads ratings, the book resonates most with fans of high-action romantasy. The audiobook narration earns special praise for voicing Kel’s intensity.
About the Author
Mikayla Bridge is a Melbourne-based author with a BA in Political Science, which informs the novel’s corporate conspiracy elements. A self-described “horror and musical theatre fan,” she brings dramatic flair to action scenes. Of Flame and Fury began as a Wattpad serial before its 2025 traditional publication.
Memorable Quotes
“Savita owed Kel nothing beyond what she chose to bestow. She was the rightful god of this island.”
“Win. Or Burn.”
Where to Buy
- Amazon (with sprayed-edge edition)
- Publisher’s Site (International orders)