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A review by heddas_bookgems
The Phoenix Keeper by S.A. MacLean
4.0
The Phoenix Keeper by A.S. MacLean is a delightful story through a world where mythical creatures take center stage, and somehow, the zookeeper job gets even more magical. From the first page, it creates a cozy, almost whimsical atmosphere as we dive into the life of a zookeeper who has to wrangle not just your average zoo critters, but creatures straight out of legend. Think less house cat, more phoenix. For fans of reality zoo shows, this book feels like a behind-the-scenes episode, except with a dragon here and a unicorn there. And don’t forget the important message about conservation (because yes, even magical creatures need saving from extinction).
That said, the book does address some prickly subjects. The zoo’s inclusion of performance acts for the mythical creatures might make some readers cringe a bit. Sure, it’s a bit uncomfortable (and a tad circus like), but the story does at least acknowledge the ethical dilemma, even if it doesn’t dive too deeply into it. Personally, I’m more of a "let mythical creatures be mythical" kind of reader, but hey, I appreciated the attempt at nuance.
Now, onto our leading lady: she’s not your average protagonist. Introverted, socially awkward, and maybe exhibiting a few neurodivergent traits, she might rub some readers the wrong way. But in my book, she’s refreshingly real, quirks and all. The kind of character who makes you think, “Yeah, I’d definitely be that person at the party hovering near the snacks and avoiding small talk.”
And let’s not forget the wonderful illustrations of these mythical creatures that serve as book dividers. A little extra magic to break up the chapters, who doesn’t love that? Oh, and Archie, the mischievous creature who loves shiny things? Instant favorite. We get it, Archie, we all have a bit of you in us.
There’s also a subtle hint of a sapphic romance, but I won’t spoil anything there. Just know it’s lurking in the background, teasing you with possibilities. That said, I did question the book’s marketing as “adult fantasy.” Other than a few colorful curse words, it feels very young adult in tone, which could throw off those expecting something more mature.
When it comes to the fantasy, it’s light, urban fantasy, really, where mythical creatures exist but the world otherwise feels quite contemporary. The romance is sweet, though it takes a back seat to everything else, and the real star here is the mystery and humor that keep things ticking along.
In conclusion, The Phoenix Keeper is an enjoyable, quirky read that doesn’t take itself too seriously. Sure, it’s not epic, high stakes fantasy, but that’s the charm of it. The jokes and banter between the protagonist and her best friend Tanya will make you smile, the care and attention given to the mythical creatures will tug at your heart, and even the subplot about renovating the zoo adds a charming touch. Add in the romance, the light mystery, and the overall coziness, and you’ve got a book that’s easy to curl up with, just like Archie would with a pocketful of shiny objects.
That said, the book does address some prickly subjects. The zoo’s inclusion of performance acts for the mythical creatures might make some readers cringe a bit. Sure, it’s a bit uncomfortable (and a tad circus like), but the story does at least acknowledge the ethical dilemma, even if it doesn’t dive too deeply into it. Personally, I’m more of a "let mythical creatures be mythical" kind of reader, but hey, I appreciated the attempt at nuance.
Now, onto our leading lady: she’s not your average protagonist. Introverted, socially awkward, and maybe exhibiting a few neurodivergent traits, she might rub some readers the wrong way. But in my book, she’s refreshingly real, quirks and all. The kind of character who makes you think, “Yeah, I’d definitely be that person at the party hovering near the snacks and avoiding small talk.”
And let’s not forget the wonderful illustrations of these mythical creatures that serve as book dividers. A little extra magic to break up the chapters, who doesn’t love that? Oh, and Archie, the mischievous creature who loves shiny things? Instant favorite. We get it, Archie, we all have a bit of you in us.
There’s also a subtle hint of a sapphic romance, but I won’t spoil anything there. Just know it’s lurking in the background, teasing you with possibilities. That said, I did question the book’s marketing as “adult fantasy.” Other than a few colorful curse words, it feels very young adult in tone, which could throw off those expecting something more mature.
When it comes to the fantasy, it’s light, urban fantasy, really, where mythical creatures exist but the world otherwise feels quite contemporary. The romance is sweet, though it takes a back seat to everything else, and the real star here is the mystery and humor that keep things ticking along.
In conclusion, The Phoenix Keeper is an enjoyable, quirky read that doesn’t take itself too seriously. Sure, it’s not epic, high stakes fantasy, but that’s the charm of it. The jokes and banter between the protagonist and her best friend Tanya will make you smile, the care and attention given to the mythical creatures will tug at your heart, and even the subplot about renovating the zoo adds a charming touch. Add in the romance, the light mystery, and the overall coziness, and you’ve got a book that’s easy to curl up with, just like Archie would with a pocketful of shiny objects.