The Phoenix Keeper is a fantastic debut! I couldn’t put this story of a cozy magical zookeeper down! Aila is a devoted and loving zookeeper to a menagerie of mythical creatures. Aila’s dream is to restart the phoenix breeding program. To do so, she must work on her public speaking skills and form connections outside her comfort zone. When phoenix thieves strike at a nearby zoo, will Aila be able to start the new program and help save the phoenixes? 

Aila’s interactions with her animals and other zookeepers are charming. The animals were fascinating and I only wish I could visit the zoo! Aila struggles with social anxiety, but knows she must learn to advocate for her animals. I loved Aila’s enemies-to-friends-to-lovers storyline! There is excellent character growth and LGBTQ+ rep throughout. I enjoyed how MacLean emphasized the importance of conservation and protection for animals. Readers looking for cozy fantasy, magical creatures, and queer found-family will love this book! I can’t wait to see what S.A. MacLean writes next! 

Thank you to S.A. MacLean, Orbit Books, and Netgalley for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.