Even in a world where humans move into the lands of powerful magical creatures, we will find a way to stamp out their presence for our own benefit.
Of Flame and Fury is the debut YA fantasy for Melbourne author Mikayla Bridge, and has been shortlisted as a CBCA 2026 Book of the Year for Older Readers. A refreshing step away from the myriad Romantasy that are more about romance and spice than fantasy, Bridge has built a stunning world of visceral beauty and depth. Her characters are bold and sharp, the action fast-paced and high-stakes, and the story harrowing and enthralling. It’s clear why this book caught the eye of CBCA judges.
With her best friend Dira, Kel races her beloved phoenix Savita just to keep a roof over all their heads. With hopes of earning enough winnings for Savita to be able to spread her wings away from the danger of the racing circuit, the Crimson Howlers are out of money and need a new rider to keep them aloft. Dira strikes a deal behind Kel’s back with her sworn enemy, racing bad-boy Warren ‘Coup’ Coupers, to join the team. Forced into uncomfortably close proximity, Kel and Coup are headhunted by a mysterious tech mogul for an opportunity too good to pass up, and the whole team moves to race for the billionaire’s company.
Before long it’s clear there’s more going on at the complex than phoenix research and race training. Worried about Savita’s safety, confused by the actions of a rebel group demanding freedom for phoenixes, and frustrated by a spark threatening to ignite between her and Coup, Kel struggles to work out what she’s really seeing and what might be overactive paranoia. When she discovers what’s really at stake, it seems like the only outcome is her whole world going up in flames.
Delving into morally grey areas around species protection, human rights, the adult responsibilities of teenagers, and family expectations versus personal morals and values, Of Flame and Fury strikes a precise balance between exploring important issues and offering a journey through a world you don’t want to leave. Lucky for us, the world of Salta has more to offer, with Bridge’s follow-up, Of Venom and Vengeance, due to be released in July 2026.
Even in a world where humans move into the lands of powerful magical creatures, we will find a way to stamp out their presence for our own benefit.
