Quick Synopsis – Aila’s childhood dream of conserving critically endangered phoenixes seems closer than ever. There’s just one glaring caveat: her zoo’s breeding program hasn’t functioned for a decade. When a tragic phoenix heist sabotages the flagship initiative at a neighboring zoo, Aila must prove her derelict facilities are fit to take the reins.

Song This Reminds Me Of – Kiss Me With Your Eyes by Morgan Clae

Publication Date – Aug. 13, 2024

Content Notes – This book is fairly light-hearted, but there is off page death of a parent, bullying, and some light violence. The main character also struggles with their mental health and has anxiety related episodes throughout the book.

Rating – ⭐⭐⭐.5 out of 5

Review – This book was very sweet and a nice, cozy read. I did have some issues with pacing; the beginning of the book was a little dry and info-dumpy for me. But the characters were sweet, and I couldn’t help but root for Alia. If you’re looking for a low-stakes fantasy novel with neurodivergent queer characters, this would be an excellent book for you.

Alia has always wanted to be a zookeeper, specifically a phoenix keeper. Even though she struggles with social interactions and would rather die than give a zoo talk, she loves her animals. When a neighboring zoo has their phoenix babies stolen by poachers, Alia seizes the opportunity to apply for a transfer of their male bird. The story from here is about the confidence Alia gains and the love she finds along the way.

There are so many little details that make this book adorable. The small drawings at the beginning of each section, the overwhelming care the author put into describing the mental hurdles Alia faces, and the worldbuilding; all these factors make a well-rounded story. I just wish the beginning wasn’t so dry; it made it hard for me to latch onto the story.

If you like a good, cozy fantasy and you’re an animal lover, this is a book for you.

Thanks to Orbit and NetGalley for the advanced copy. All opinions are my own.