Rise of the Phoenix

by Brendan Arnold

Winner of Debut Author of the Year, Young Adult Book of the Year and Book Cover of the Year at the Bookstagram Awards 2025.

Filled with emotional stakes, heartwarming angst, and shocking revelations, Rise of the Phoenix is the first book in the Phoenix Chronicles where magic is just the beginning.

One moment can change your life forever.

Will Tavner never imagined his quiet life in Fawkeston would end with fire and shadows. Marked by a strange glowing symbol and plagued by visions he can’t explain, Will’s dreams of leaving his small town behind crumble as he’s thrust into a world where magic is more than myth — and far more dangerous.

Together with his fiercely loyal friends — Aylise, Seb, and Rupert — Will is drawn into an ancient conflict brewing across the kingdom of Arulean. The ruthless Queen Haveena and her husband, King Rickard, rule the land with fear, wielding their powers to crush dissent. When whispers of rebellion stir and a long-forgotten power begins to rise, their reign threatens to topple.

As secrets unravel and loyalties are tested, Will must decide who he can trust and what he’s willing to sacrifice to awaken a long-lost power. In a world teetering on the edge of revolution, his choices will either spark a new dawn — or doom it to ashes.

Why you’ll love Rise of the Phoenix

A rich new magical world filled with loveable and love to hate characters, strong, powerful women and magical gays.A blend of fantasy, action, mystery and self-realisation that will hook you in from the beginning.A slow-burn romance formed from a lifelong friendship.It’s is a love letter to anyone who’s ever felt different or had to fight to be themselves.Perfect for readers looking for a less brutal Game of Thrones (George R. R. Martin), a queer twist on Throne of Glass (Sarah J. Maas), or looking for the self-discovery and friendship of Heartstopper (Alice Oseman).

Genres: LGBT, Fantasy

274 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 24, 2025

About the author

Brendan Arnold is a queer fantasy author living in sunny Australia. A lifelong lover of fantasy, he longed to see more representation in the genre and set out to create stories that reflect the beauty and complexity of diverse identities. Through the rich worlds of his imagination, Brendan brings characters to life who carve their own paths and defy expectations.

He has spent years crafting the world of Arulean, a realm filled with adventure, intrigue, and magic. Rise of the Phoenix, his debut novel, marks the beginning of a journey that has been a decade in the making. Brendan yearned to see more people like him in literature, and more importantly, in mainstream literature. Rise of the Phoenix is a story for everyone, but it’s a special love story to anyone who had to fight to be themselves.

When he’s not writing, Brendan enjoys drawing on his iPad, spending time with his husband and cats, diving into story-driven games, and bingeing books and series. He believes in the power of stories to inspire, challenge, and connect us. His favourite author is Michael Robotham, his favourite TV series is Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and his favourite video game series is Tomb Raider.

Reviews

[Anthony Parody · Rating 5 out of 5]

And just like that I got sucked into a new fantasy world 🙌🏽

Rise of the Phoenix follows Will Tavner who thought he was just a normal boy living a quiet life. He soon discovers that he is anything but normal and is the key to restoring peace to the kingdom of Arulean.

I can’t say much more because a lot happens from page one and don’t want to spoil it! I’ve been so over fantasy novels that I wasn’t sure if I had energy for a new world but boy was I wrong! Rise of the Phoenix hooked me from the beginning and didn’t let me go! It was fast paced but at the same time still slowed down when needed to. It was never overwhelming!

Brendan builds a new world with a rich history but was not too much either. He laid the history down in a cool way which isn’t too telly and tbh it screams prequel at you! But it’s not just the amazing lore and it’s the amazing characters too! Will is a great main character in every possible way, with his best friends Seb and Alyise forming a “Golden Trio.” They each have their own storylines that had me so invested! I can’t tell you which character is my favourite *cough*Will*cough*Seb cough*! I can’t go into much detail either because of spoilers! Spoilers for each individual character too!

Also points go the slow burn romance 😏🔥 even if it wasn’t the romance I wanted, I really got on board with it, I’m always down for a straight romance and in this book…i loooooooove the main romance! Even if I am shipping a fake ship in my head jejeje I am so on board and shipping so many ships! but extra points to a gay storyline too and the gay romance!

The “Golden Trio” weren’t the only characters that stood out, the supporting cast is 👌🏽 Looking at you Prince Andayne 🫠 and the villainous Queen Raveena was just slaying! Also, points to her minion Jarrack who needs for time in the sequel! Those two could be a powerful force! Who doesn’t love to hate the villain!

It’s not just the characters but it’s the plot twists too! My mouth dropped so many times! And those final chapters were a rollercoaster! I mean the whole book was a ride! And that cliffhanger! Pleaseeee give me book 2 right now! A pure gem hidden within the fantasy genre that the world is sleeping on and I can’t wait to see where Brendan takes this series!

Hail to the next Game of Thrones!

It’s time for the Phoenix to riseeeeeeee 🔥

[Marcos “MSMDragon” · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rise of the Phoenix was a great book! The story Brendan Arnold has written is fantastic. The world building was vibrant, the magic was really unique and interesting, and the characters were wonderfully written! This is exactly the kind of fantasy storytelling that I love. As an added bonus, one of the main characters is gay! Which always feels too rare in fantasy novels! I’m already obsessed with him and can’t wait to see where his story goes. And after that cliffhanger, I’m super excited for more of this series!!

[R.D. Pires · Rating 4 out of 5]

Brendan Arnold's young adult fantasy debut, Rise of the Phoenix, is a thrilling good time, with plenty of action and magic to keep the pages turning.

Set in the world of Arulean, readers follow Will Tavner and his two best friends, Seb and Alyse, as they are thrown into a perilous chase to escape the power-hungry King Rickard and Queen Haveena. There are inheritance revelations, slow burn romance, and tense battles. All the good stuff wrapped up in a tight, 275-ish pages!

Marking the start of what is looking to be an explosive fantasy series, I'm eager to see where Arnold takes us next.

[Nick K · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great story telling and world building! The character development is excellent and the overall book has definitely left me wanting more.

[Kelsbookreads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brendan's style of writing is engaging and beautifully easy to read. The themes and tones he pulls from the different POV is complex and well balanced, and you feel the shift in voices between characters so each one is unique. The world building is also full and intricate and you could see each scene clearly, which as a reader is something special.

Honestly - this book is everything you'll want from a fantasy action-adventure, coming of age story.

Will is a normal 18 year old, living with his over protective parents, learning a trade and hanging out with his two best friends Seb and Ayline, a noblemans daughter who he's loved forever. He longs for more than his sheltered humdrum life, having never explored further than his village boundaries. One night around a campfire with his two best friends, an accident sets off a catalyst that will change the course of his entire life, and the people around him.

What follows is an adventure where death, destruction, fleeing the enemy and finding your path (albeit reluctantly) becomes a reality.

This is a book you'll just have to experience first hand so you can feel all the feelings, it's not your average YA.

If you love;

- reluctant hero
- friends to lovers
- hidden identity
- prophecies and destinies
- coming into power
- emotionally damaged evil queen
- lgbtqia+
- loss and grief
- Fae and other magical creatures
- complex world building

Then please pick this one up - you won't regret it!

[Hope Everly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rise of the Phoenix by Brendon Arnold is an epic fantasy adventure that had me hooked from the very first chapter! Written in third person, the story follows Will Tavern, a reluctant hero thrust into a journey he never wanted to take. Along the way, he faces tragedy, uncovers hidden truths about himself, and discovers a strength and courage he didn’t know he possessed. And maybe… even love. ❤️🔥

Will’s path is full of action, heartache, and emotional growth. The pacing is fast, the worldbuilding vivid, and the twists kept me completely invested. This was my first fantasy read written by a male author, and I absolutely loved it! It perfectly balances heart-pounding adventure with just the right touch of romance to keep this hopeless romantic happy. 💫

This is book one in The Phoenix Chronicles, and let me tell you, I couldn’t resist messaging the author with all my wild theories about what’s coming next… and in true author fashion, he gave me nothing! 😂

If you love fantasy filled with courage, heart, and a spark of love amidst the chaos, this one is definitely worth picking up.

[Piper Brenton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best book ever. Cover EVERTHING is so amazing I know I will be in love!

[Andy · Rating 5 out of 5]

All the makings of the next ACOTAR craze. From the in depth world building to the superhero level action sequences. Couldn’t put it down.

[Stephen Pace · Rating 4 out of 5]

I picked up this book 2 days ago and could not put it down. It developed into a strong fantasy novel with fast paced action, likable characters, a great world and intriguing magic. Can’t wait for the next instalment.

[Chloe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rise of the Phoenix is the reluctant hero/ fated one origin story. Brendan beautifully crafts the magical world of Arulean with a horde of lovable and love to hate characters. What leapt out the most during the read was the emotional stakes and growth of all characters throughout the novel. Not just our heroes but our main villain as well. I had moments of joy, excitement, sorrow, and anger. Times when I wanted to reach in and hug characters and others we wanted to punch out.

I also enjoyed the way the magical system and political machinations unfolded throughout the story. Slowly but surely giving an understanding of the world around you and stakes at play as you get to know the main characters. The lore flowed organically within the story, telling you as much as you needed to know when required, rather than the dreaded old exposition dump.

Overall, Rise of the Phoenix gave Game of Thrones / Throne of Glass vibes. It keeps you on the edge of your seat till the very end, and I very much look forward to the next instalment. I have to know what happens next.

[Louise John · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brendan I have just finished the rise of the Phoenix and enjoyed every word you have written . It is an amazing book. I’ve never enjoyed a fantasy book before and I just love love loved it. I was hooked on every word every twist and turn of the plot .
My heart rate increased as Will was trying to escape the city , I couldn’t put it down I kept reading later and later into the night. I was so upset when you killed off some of my favourite characters !! I had been drawn into their world.
You have taken your readers through every emotion with every part of the story . They are 3D words taking the reader along for the ride. Your unmatched talent flies off the page with every word!!I can’t wait to read the next one !!! !!!

[Adrian Yates · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! What a way to start a series!
This book was absolutely amazing. An emotional rollercoaster that had me hooked from the very first page. The writing is sharp, the characters feel real, and the twists had me gasping more than once. By the end, I was completely heartbroken, yet somehow thrilled and utterly confused in the best possible way.

The only disappointment? I don’t have book two ready to dive into right now! If you’re looking for a story that will grab your heart, mess with your mind, and leave you desperate for more, this is the one to start.

[Mark Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. I've always struggled with reading many books as I can't hold attention to them very well. With this I was hooked. It flowed really smoothly, and the characters were awesome! It's hard to even pick a favourite they were so well written. Overall, it is a book that I was able to escape into, and when you're able to put yourself into the world created, what more do you really need? (other than the next book pls)

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love, love this book. This story of friendship, love, self discovery and power had me in from the very first page. I was there in the book with the characters laughing and crying with them, sharing their anger, sadness, and joy, I couldn’t put it down. This is an excellent story and I highly recommend it.

[Ashley Marasco · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book brought me so much joy and so much sadness for the characters in equal measure throughout. I really enjoyed the dynamic between Will, Seb and Aylise - their deep friendship and support for one another was heartwarming, and I wanted nothing more than for each of them to be able to have a happy ending after ensuring so much. Overall a fun fantasy read!

[Distracted Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! For a debut novel I’m shook. This book gives you everything. Action, adventure, world building, love, heartbreak, loss, and all the fantasy magic you could possibly imagine! I loved the characters but I especially loved Seb. My sweet sweet Seb 💛

What an amazing read and super proud of Brendan for creating this story! MUST READ 10/10!

[Nicola Yates · Rating 5 out of 5]

An exciting debut novel that leaves me wanting much much more. I'm so invested in Rise of the Phoenix, and all it promises for the future ...... simply can't wait for the next instalment.