From Ashes to Magic: 23 Phoenix-Centered Fantasy Books
From characters with tongues as sharp as a phoenix’s beak to plot twists hotter than a dragon’s flame, these tales turn the mundane into a conflagration of fantastical fun.
Join us as we explore the incandescent allure of fantasy books about the legendary phoenix, where narratives ascend in a spectacular display of literary pyrotechnics.
The Heart of the Phoenix by Annalee Adams
Julia Jones, a tenacious journalist investigating a London serial killer, discovers her life entangled in a web of supernatural mystery.
Born from flames, Julia fights a dark force threatening humanity with a mysterious man as her unexpected savior. Adams weaves a seamless blend of murder mystery and dark urban fantasy.
This captivating tale of self-discovery and paranormal intrigue serves as a perfect entry into Annalee’s world.
For those looking for a new adult, dark urban fantasy with a dash of romance and the allure of the supernatural, The Heart of the Phoenix awaits. A brilliant beginning to the Resurgence series.
Crown of Feathers by Nicki Pau Preto
A phoenix-laden world fractures under the weight of a sisterly war.
Sixteen years later, Veronyka, a war orphan yearning to become a phoenix rider, disguises herself to escape her controlling sister’s grasp.
As Veronyka confronts her sister’s lies and a looming empire, Crown of Feathers promises an enthralling fusion of adventure and fantasy.
This fantasy masterpiece weaves a poetic tale where phoenixes soar like poetry on wings through ash and flame. Pau Preto crafts a world recovering from war’s aftermath, revealing Veronyka’s journey of betrayal, identity, and the fiery bonds between phoenix and rider.
The Phoenix Whisperer by Scarlett Reid
Ana de Navalles dreams of dragon-riding at Galfour’s Point, an elite academy.
When her friend Cien is murdered, Ana, undeterred, faces the academy’s snobbish hierarchy. Discovering a young phoenix, Fyrenza, she becomes the talk of the school.
To stay, Ana must convince authorities of their unique bond. As Ana, Fyrenza, and a diverse group of friends probe Cien’s death, sinister forces within and beyond the academy conspire against them.
In a world tainted by dark magic, Ana and Fyrenza strive to rise, illuminating a cruel world.
The Phoenix Whisperer is a spellbinding journey of revenge, friendship, and resilience.
Fireborn by Keri Arthur
Phoenix Emberly Pearson defies fate to save her former lover Sam from a prophesied death. Their entanglement unravels a web of government experiments, a viral red plague turning humans into vampires, and a dangerous investigation.
Navigating a world brimming with werewolves, vampires, and an array of paranormal creatures, Emberly’s quest unveils unique phoenix lore and complex relationships.
The curse of eternal heartache, the need for phoenix companionship, and the challenges of millennia-long existence add depth.
Arthur’s masterful blend of investigative intrigue, rich world-building, and fiery romance promises Fireborn as an enthralling urban fantasy series opener, igniting anticipation for the journey ahead.
Phoenix Fire by S.D. Grimm
Ava, who has finally found a home after a life in foster care, encounters the mysterious Wyatt Wilcox. As her life takes an unexpected turn, memories of other lives and newfound healing abilities emerge.
When Cade and Nick claim to be her brothers and reveal her identity as a Phoenix destined to protect the world from monsters, Ava faces a surreal reality.
Tasked with ending the life of a rogue Phoenix to save her brother Cade, Ava grapples with the complexities of love, family, and her newfound destiny.
Grimm weaves a suspenseful and romantic tale, blending mystery, fantasy, and the intricate bonds of family and fate.
The Rogue King by Abigail Owen
Kasia Amon, a phoenix with the gift of vision, is a well-kept secret hidden from the supernatural world. However, her existence becomes exposed, making her a coveted target for dragon shifters eager to claim her as a prize.
Among them is Brand Astarot, a rogue dragon seeking revenge against the Blood King.
Bound by a dangerous reputation, Brand’s mission to deliver Kasia to the Blood King brings unexpected challenges when a white-hot desire ignites between them.
As Kasia’s phoenix fire blazes, Brand must navigate a new plan – claim her for himself and reclaim his birthright.
This captivating tale blends adventure, romance, and revenge in a world where dragons and phoenixes collide.
First Flame by Kimbra Swain
Wynonna Riggs, known as the Phoenix and Shady Grove’s first daughter, faces a dual challenge: understanding her identity while investigating fairy trafficking in the bay city of Steelshore.
Accompanied by colleagues, Winnie uncovers not only the criminal activities but also internal strife among fairies, pitting her against the Sandhedrin faction. As she delves into the conflict, the life of a newfound friend hangs in the balance.
Balancing her duties in Steelshore and trouble brewing back home for her best friend, Alpha of the Shady Grove pack, Winnie grapples with difficult choices.
Set in the world of Stories of Frost and Fire, this spin-off series stands independently, making it accessible to both new and existing readers.
Phoenix Feather by Angela Wallace
Aidan Quinn, a centuries-old Phoenix, grapples with the repetitive cycle of death and rebirth. As a grad student in Seattle, she mourns lost love and seeks solace in routine.
When Detective Bryan McCain investigates serial murders targeting red-haired women, his brother Trent becomes involved with a potential victim. Unbeknownst to Aidan, the killer is hunting for a phoenix.
As she navigates a budding romance with Trent, danger looms closer.
Wallace weaves a captivating story of love, loss, and the mythical Phoenix, blending mystery and romance seamlessly. Readers will be drawn into Aidan’s world, where flames of passion and danger intertwine.
Ashes by Sarah K.L. Wilson
Ashes introduces us to Sersha, a mute outcast in her village. Disabled and rejected, Sersha’s life takes an unexpected turn when a phoenix, tied to her heart, becomes her steadfast friend.
As her village faces threats, Sersha must forge a bond with the phoenix to protect their shared future.
In this enchanting novella, Sersha’s big heart becomes the key to navigating challenges and finding her place in a world that underestimated her. With captivating characters and a richly woven narrative, this is the first installment in the Phoenix Heart stories.
Join Sersha on a journey of friendship, mystery, and self-discovery in this compelling fantasy tale.
Other titles in the series include: Secret Keeper, Bright Feather, Rope Worker, and Grand Hadri.
Wings of Fire by Stephanie Mirro
As the last of the phoenixes, Veronica thrives on stealing supernatural artifacts, blending danger with exhilaration. However, her latest exploit takes a grim turn when someone beats her to the prize, committing murder in the process.
Framed for the gruesome crime, she faces the threat of the Death Enforcement Agency.
To escape a grim fate, Veronica reluctantly allies with Thane Munro, a seductive grim reaper.
Their journey unfolds in Wings of Fire, a high-stakes tale of thievery, murder, and a slow-burning romance. Veronica’s fiery wit and Thane’s mysterious charm make for an electrifying combination in this paranormal adventure.
Ashes of Life by Andrew Q. Gordon
When he rescues an injured phoenix, little does Thane, the last of the royal guards, know that it would alter the course of his ordinary life. Unbeknownst to him, the phoenix, named Eraq, is not merely a majestic bird but a mage shifter.
As the story unfolds, Thane becomes intricately connected to Eraq in a magical bond, setting the stage for unforeseen challenges. Thane, an upright and loyal warrior, navigates the complexities of his newfound relationship with Eraq, who harbors both phoenix and mage forms.
The narrative weaves external conflicts, sword clashes, and a looming dragon threat, making for a compelling fantasy tale.
The slow development of the bond between Thane and Eraq, with Plym as Eraq’s human manifestation, adds layers to this enchanting story, leaving readers yearning for more of their captivating journey.
Guarding Katelyn by J. Thompson
Trent, a half-Gargoyle hybrid leading the newly established Paranormal Security Service in London, finds his life taking an unexpected turn when he rescues Katelyn, an endangered phoenix. Little does he realize that this act of protection will lead to a profound shift in his world.
Drawn to Katelyn, Trent becomes her unwavering protector as she escapes from the clutches of her demon ex-lover.
As their connection deepens, he discovers that home isn’t a place but a strong, beautiful woman who calls to the monster within him.
Guarding Katelyn introduces a fresh and captivating tale of magical intrigue and paranormal romance, setting the stage for the Paranormal Security Service series with its enchanting characters and unexpected twists.
Into the Fire by Ashelyn Drake
17-year-old Cara Tillman faces a unique challenge—she’s a Phoenix, destined to die and be reborn from her own ashes. As she navigates her secret life, including the coming-of-age process of rebirth, Cara falls for Logan Schmidt, a new guy in town.
The catch? After her rebirth, she’ll forget everything, including Logan.
To complicate matters, a Phoenix Hunter is on the prowl, threatening Cara’s existence. Fearing for Logan’s safety, Cara ends their relationship, but her deep connection to him persists.
The story unfolds with mystery, romance, and the imminent danger of the Phoenix Hunter, promising an unforgettable journey of love and survival.
Ashes of the Phoenix by Jess Haines
The legend foretells the rise of a phoenix, but Lyra Adams, a rare books dealer, finds herself facing an unexpected transformation after an encounter with an angry wizard.
When the wizard turns her into a strange red bird using enchanted ashes, Lyra’s only hope for restoration lies with her deceitful ex-boyfriend, James Pierce.
Despite their tumultuous history, Lyra must trust James to reverse the spell and return her to her human self. As Lyra navigates a world of wizards and magical books, The Ashes of the Phoenix unfolds within the span of a single day, offering a fast-paced narrative with unexpected twists.
The story delves into the challenges of trust, magic, and the quest for rebirth from the ashes.
Dragon and Phoenix by Joanne Bertin
In the enchanted realm of Jehanglan, the phoenix undergoes a magical rebirth once every millennium. Empires have long sought to control this spectacle, and finally, a ruler succeeds through dark magic, enslaving a dragon in the process.
Meanwhile, Dragon-lord Linden and his wife, Maurynna, strive for happiness, but her inability to transform into a dragon plunges her into despair.
Facing personal crises, they journey to Jehanglan, confronting treacherous forces to free the phoenix. Yet, an ominous challenge looms – the dragon, potentially a deranged Dragonlord.
In a tale of magic, diplomacy, and martial skills, they navigate a world where mythic creatures and imperial intrigues intertwine.
Sir Apropos of Nothing by Peter David
Enter a humorous fantasy novel that follows the adventures of Apropos, a cynical and sarcastic young man who navigates a world filled with knights, dragons, and damsels in distress.
Born into poverty and with a less-than-heroic name, Apropos has a knack for finding himself in absurd and entertaining situations.
The novel satirizes traditional fantasy tropes while offering a witty and irreverent take on the hero’s journey. Apropos encounters a colorful cast of characters, faces moral dilemmas, and discovers unexpected truths about himself in a narrative that combines humor, fantasy, and a touch of subversion.
The King’s Bastard by Rowena Cory Daniells
The King’s Bastard is an epic fantasy novel set in the kingdom of Rolencia.
Amidst political intrigue and mystical conflicts, the story introduces magical elements, including the presence of phoenixes. The mythical phoenix, a symbol of rebirth, becomes entwined in the complex political landscape as characters navigate treacherous plots.
As the kingdom faces challenges and power struggles, the phoenix adds a fantastical and symbolic layer to the narrative, reflecting themes of renewal and resilience in the midst of turmoil.
The magical creatures contribute to the rich tapestry of the fantasy world created by Daniells, enhancing the overall depth and enchantment of the story.
Dragon Fire and Phoenix Ash by J. Thompson and Mina Carter
Alone and caged, Sula, a rare Phoenix, is a mere shadow of her true self after years of captivity. Praying for the release of death, she unexpectedly finds salvation when a dragon, Damian, rescues her during a warehouse attack.
Damian, a black dragon on a mission to eradicate slavers, takes Sula home, initially thinking she’s a pet bird. As he cares for her, a profound connection develops. However, Sula’s past catches up, and her masters track her down.
The race is on for Damian to save his fated mate and secure their happily ever after. The story is a heartwarming tale of rescue, healing, and the power of love.
Phoenix Rising by Bianca D’Arc
In the sun-drenched outskirts of Phoenix, Lance, an unwitting engine shop owner, discovers his life veering into the surreal.
Drawn to the desert with enigmatic yearnings and plagued by dreams of airborne escapades, Lance’s reality takes a fantastical turn. Enter Tina, his high school crush, appearing just when fate throws her stranded in the desert. Sparks ignite, reigniting an old flame amidst a supernatural storm.
As Lance’s shop becomes a target, Tina, armed with wisdom and magic, guides him through the mystic realm. Will love be Lance’s anchor as he grapples with a phoenix transformation most don’t survive?
Join this desert tale – where the road to love is paved with engines, dreams, and a dash of phoenix flair.
The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang
The Poppy War is a dark and immersive fantasy novel that follows the journey of Rin, a war orphan determined to escape her bleak future.
In the Empire of Nikan, Rin discovers her shamanic powers and gains admission to the prestigious Sinegard military academy. As war looms, she uncovers the devastating power of Phoenix, an ancient god.
The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of political intrigue, war strategies, and Rin’s internal struggle with the cost of power.
Kuang’s debut novel explores themes of identity, power, and the moral complexities of warfare, offering a compelling and thought-provoking read for fans of intricate world-building and morally grey characters.
Klutz: Phoenix Down by Sedona Ashe
In the comedy-filled paranormal romance, Amaryllis finds herself rescuing five jaguar shifter survivors after her plane crashes in the jungle. Little did she know, they were on a mission to find a rare phoenix shifter – the legendary creature reborn after each death.
As Amaryllis faces the challenges of surviving the Amazon rainforest, her supposed fated mates treat her poorly, unaware of her true identity.
Despite their mistreatment, an undeniable connection forms.
With humor, adventure, and passionate scenes, this reverse harem series kicks off with a unique twist, leaving readers eager for the next installment. Amaryllis’s resilience and wit make for an entertaining and unpredictable journey through the jungle and matters of the heart.
Redbird Fires by Madeleine Ribbon
Michael, an immortal phoenix and café owner, is gearing up for his rebirth, a process that involves burning to death. However, his relationship with his new boyfriend isn’t going as smoothly as he’d hoped.
Avery, Michael’s best customer and confidante, takes it upon herself to intervene and ensure Michael recognizes the deception in his relationship.
With a plan to set him up with her brother, a grumpy botany professor, Avery’s matchmaking efforts take an unexpected turn with explosive consequences.
The story combines humor, mythology, and paranormal elements, offering a sweet and entertaining read with a touch of romance and fantasy.
Hot as Sin by Elle Christensen
Ash Howell, a phoenix who involuntarily bursts into flames and regenerates regularly, feels like an outsider in a town filled with monsters.
Fearful of the potential damage he could cause, Ash becomes a recluse in Screaming Woods. However, everything changes when Izzy Riley, a beautiful half-fae/half-demon imp and the King’s sister, arrives in town.
Both Ash and Izzy understand the feeling of not belonging, and as they come together, their connection is both magical and combustible.
Despite facing attempts on their lives, they navigate the challenges to find their happily ever after in this funny, sexy, and steamy paranormal romance.
Special Mention: The Harry Potter Series by JK Rowling
The Harry Potter series is a globally renowned fantasy series that follows the journey of a young wizard, Harry Potter, and his friends as they attend Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Fawkes is one of many magical creatures in this adventure.
He is a phoenix, a majestic bird that has the ability to be reborn from its ashes.
Fawkes is particularly known for his loyalty to Professor Albus Dumbledore and plays a significant role in the series, offering comfort, healing tears, and invaluable assistance to Harry and his friends in times of need.
Here are some of the most memorable appearances of this literary hero:
- Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets: Fawkes makes his first appearance in this book, where he plays a crucial role in saving Harry Potter’s life in the Chamber of Secrets.
- Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire: Fawkes is briefly mentioned during the Triwizard Tournament, particularly when Harry uses his wand during the third task.
- Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix: Fawkes makes a notable appearance in this book during the Battle of the Department of Mysteries, where he swallows a killing curse aimed at Dumbledore and disappears in a burst of flame.
- Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince: Fawkes appears again in this book, particularly in the chapter titled The Phoenix Lament, where he sings a mournful song after Dumbledore’s death.
The Harry Potter series and the character of Fawkes have captivated readers worldwide, becoming a cultural phenomenon and leaving a lasting impact on literature and popular culture.
