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Roanfire Saga #1
The Phoenix Host
The dream began like any other. But it’s changing. Every night it grows, sinking deeper, burning into bone and mind.
I can’t hide the nosebleeds anymore.
Keatep Brendagger, a young woman raised by a legendary swordsman, wants nothing more than to be recognized for her skill. Her hard work and training are validated when she is given the opportunity to escort a noblewoman to the capitol for the prince’s coronation; a mission that should have been simple for a soldier of her caliber.
But the nightmare is getting worse.
Desperate to find answers, Keatep uncovers a tainted history of her beloved kingdom, changing everything she thought she knew, everything she thought she was. If she doesn’t fight back, it will do more than leave her beloved kingdom in ashes.
It will steal her soul.
I can’t hide the nosebleeds anymore.
Keatep Brendagger, a young woman raised by a legendary swordsman, wants nothing more than to be recognized for her skill. Her hard work and training are validated when she is given the opportunity to escort a noblewoman to the capitol for the prince’s coronation; a mission that should have been simple for a soldier of her caliber.
But the nightmare is getting worse.
Desperate to find answers, Keatep uncovers a tainted history of her beloved kingdom, changing everything she thought she knew, everything she thought she was. If she doesn’t fight back, it will do more than leave her beloved kingdom in ashes.
It will steal her soul.
- GenresFantasy
420 pages, ebook
Published July 25, 2018
22 people are currently reading
89 people want to read
About the author
C.K. Miller
4 books22 followersGrowing up caught between two worlds shaped everything about who I am as a fantasy writer. I spent seven years of my childhood in Germany, exploring ancient ruins near our home in Markt Einersheim while feeling displaced—called a "stupid Ami" by German classmates, too far from American bases to belong there either. My German father was finishing his Ph.D., and I grew up truly bicultural, with neither language dominant over the other.
When we returned to the US, I was fourteen with German now my first language, thrust into high school without knowing basic American history, the fifty states, or where any of them were located. Writing became my refuge when a kind friend took me under her wing, helping me navigate English through collaborative stories shared in notebooks. We'd trade paragraphs back and forth like a role-playing game, she'd correct my English and help me find words I was searching for. After two years, I suddenly realized I had surpassed her level—me, a "stupid Ami" who couldn't remember the fifty states! I loved writing and never wanted to stop.
Around this time, chronic health issues began shadowing my life—migraines, stomach pain, and muscle weakness that would plague me for over twenty-five years. When I married in 2005, my husband became my greatest champion, encouraging me to pursue publication even when I could barely believe in my own strength.
The story that would define my career began with a necklace from my geology-loving father—a tiny blue agate stone that sparked my imagination. Over time, that blue agate transformed into a cursed ruby, and what started as The Soldier Princess eventually became The Phoenix Host after nine rejection letters and a publishing journey through Helm Publishing. My themes of resilience, transformation, and finding strength in vulnerability draw directly from my own journey of healing and self-discovery.
After three difficult pregnancies and reaching my physical breaking point, I found a doctor who helped me heal both body and spirit. Today, all four books in the Roanfire Saga are published and have built a devoted readership who connect with these stories of overcoming impossible odds. I live near the Rocky Mountains with my husband, three children, and our menagerie including a cat and quail. When I'm not crafting fantasy worlds, I create art, practice martial arts, and tend my garden—all practices that keep me grounded and fuel my imagination. I'm passionate about both epic storytelling and the wellness practices that literally saved my life.
Visit my website at www.ckmillerbooks.com for more information about my books and wellness journey.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
November 17, 2018
It's books like this that prove self-published indie authors have just as much talent as traditionally published authors. Fantasy lovers will enjoy the first installment of this series, which follows Keatep Brendagger as she tries to overcome an ancient curse and save her nation from war. There were many things I enjoyed about this book and only a few minor things I disliked (which is even a strong word to use).
Things I enjoyed: C.K. Miller uses great imagery to describe Roanfire and the rest of the realm. Her vocabulary made each detail vividly come to life in my mind, and every character had a distinct personality. The plot itself was unique and had plenty of twists, turns, and surprising moments I didn’t see coming. I won’t reveal them in order to keep this review spoiler-free, but one involves Kea’s love interest, Ikane, and the other is at the conclusion of the story. The villain was also unlike any I’ve seen before. Not only is she an external threat to the rest of the world, but she’s a crippling internal threat to Kea. She was absolutely frightening. I also loved that Keatep is the definition of a “strong female character” without ever shoving it in your face. Despite her worries and weaknesses, she’s overall a determined character and devoted soldier who doesn’t let fear stop her from pursuing her goal. Also, though there is a hint of a love triangle, it wasn’t forced down our throats (which I greatly appreciate, as someone who loathes love triangles). Ropert is a great friend, which makes it even more painful for the reader when a rift forms between him and Kea. Though the attraction between Kea and Ikane is obvious from the start, it is a slow-growing fire, not love-at-first-sight crap. Also, there’s a particular fighting tactic used by the Leviathan army during the climax that I’ve never seen before. (Again, no spoilers, but bravo to the author!)
The things I disliked about the story were very minor and didn’t detract from my enjoyment of the book. For one thing, the middle seemed sort of drawn-out and slow. There were a few events that didn’t add much to the plot but didn’t make it any worse for being there. Secondly, the “find the White Wardent” part of the plot never really happened. It was like, “We need to find this person. Oh, wait, no we don’t. We can let someone else do that later, maybe.” It seemed like a subplot that was going to happen and possibly save Kea from the curse, but then was left off with a shrug. I’m pretty sure it will be addressed more in the second book, but having it in the first book seemed like a last-minute thought rather than a necessary part of THIS story.
Overall, I really enjoyed The Phoenix Host and I can’t wait to read the next book in the series. Pick this one up today and support an indie author!
Things I enjoyed: C.K. Miller uses great imagery to describe Roanfire and the rest of the realm. Her vocabulary made each detail vividly come to life in my mind, and every character had a distinct personality. The plot itself was unique and had plenty of twists, turns, and surprising moments I didn’t see coming. I won’t reveal them in order to keep this review spoiler-free, but one involves Kea’s love interest, Ikane, and the other is at the conclusion of the story. The villain was also unlike any I’ve seen before. Not only is she an external threat to the rest of the world, but she’s a crippling internal threat to Kea. She was absolutely frightening. I also loved that Keatep is the definition of a “strong female character” without ever shoving it in your face. Despite her worries and weaknesses, she’s overall a determined character and devoted soldier who doesn’t let fear stop her from pursuing her goal. Also, though there is a hint of a love triangle, it wasn’t forced down our throats (which I greatly appreciate, as someone who loathes love triangles). Ropert is a great friend, which makes it even more painful for the reader when a rift forms between him and Kea. Though the attraction between Kea and Ikane is obvious from the start, it is a slow-growing fire, not love-at-first-sight crap. Also, there’s a particular fighting tactic used by the Leviathan army during the climax that I’ve never seen before. (Again, no spoilers, but bravo to the author!)
The things I disliked about the story were very minor and didn’t detract from my enjoyment of the book. For one thing, the middle seemed sort of drawn-out and slow. There were a few events that didn’t add much to the plot but didn’t make it any worse for being there. Secondly, the “find the White Wardent” part of the plot never really happened. It was like, “We need to find this person. Oh, wait, no we don’t. We can let someone else do that later, maybe.” It seemed like a subplot that was going to happen and possibly save Kea from the curse, but then was left off with a shrug. I’m pretty sure it will be addressed more in the second book, but having it in the first book seemed like a last-minute thought rather than a necessary part of THIS story.
Overall, I really enjoyed The Phoenix Host and I can’t wait to read the next book in the series. Pick this one up today and support an indie author!
October 12, 2019
I had the pleasure of reading The Phoenix Host on an 8 hour flight - The first 4 hours were lost to the first half of this book. I’ve never been happier to be stationary for so long.
It is not an easy thing to keep my attention when companions are travelling a lot within their world. Many a book has been put down in the past when this has occurred. CK Miller never had that worry. Roanfire is a diverse world that you can easily become immersed within, and the snippy dialogue between the characters is both amusing and heartfelt.
I could not lift my gaze for the last quarter, my heartstrings well and truly pulled taut. I don’t normally identify with female leads but Keatep Brendagger as is different. She’s badass for a start, her passion and defiant nature pushes her onwards as she tries desperately to find a cure for her curse.
The villain is seldom ‘seen’ which adds more drama to stoke the internal fire. I loved the interaction between Kea and this invisible force but not as much as I did watching the love blossom between Kea and Ikane. It’s not instant, and sometimes I was so sure she was gonna kick him to the curb, but the attraction was always there and not in a sickening way.
I loved this first instalment to the series and after reading book 2 I am even more excited for the third!
It is not an easy thing to keep my attention when companions are travelling a lot within their world. Many a book has been put down in the past when this has occurred. CK Miller never had that worry. Roanfire is a diverse world that you can easily become immersed within, and the snippy dialogue between the characters is both amusing and heartfelt.
I could not lift my gaze for the last quarter, my heartstrings well and truly pulled taut. I don’t normally identify with female leads but Keatep Brendagger as is different. She’s badass for a start, her passion and defiant nature pushes her onwards as she tries desperately to find a cure for her curse.
The villain is seldom ‘seen’ which adds more drama to stoke the internal fire. I loved the interaction between Kea and this invisible force but not as much as I did watching the love blossom between Kea and Ikane. It’s not instant, and sometimes I was so sure she was gonna kick him to the curb, but the attraction was always there and not in a sickening way.
I loved this first instalment to the series and after reading book 2 I am even more excited for the third!
February 11, 2021
The Phoenix Host is a lovable tale about a cursed young woman, a challenging journey and an unexpected forbidden love. Kea Brendagger starts waking up from nightmares that give her nosebleeds, a curse from her unknown heritage. Wondering what causes this, she embarks on a wild ride. Along the way, she meets a man with a different curse. Forbidden to spend time with him, but constantly having their paths interweave, Kea develops feelings for him. Will her curse tear them apart? Will his kingdom demand they remain separated? Find out in The Phoenix Host!
December 18, 2020
Loved this book so much. Lots of action, adventure, friendships and love, & a really well written exciting plot. Great for any age.
August 29, 2020
As Roanfire teeters on the brink of all out war with the vicious Leviathan Pirates, young warrior Keatep has her own struggles with her secret heritage, an evil talisman and betrayal lurking all around. What if the only true ally in her epic fight dwells amongst hated enemies?
Now this book may be a tad too long and suffers from inflicting too many injuries upon our heroine, but I have to say that I really enjoyed it.
Kea is a wonderfully feisty fighter with a warm heart but, for me, this story excelled with the lover/enemy Ikane who leaps, or should I say smoulders, off the page. I defy you not to root for them both by the end.
I'm now moving on to book 2 which should tell you a lot about my need to see how it turns out.
An epic, battlescarred 4 stars
Now this book may be a tad too long and suffers from inflicting too many injuries upon our heroine, but I have to say that I really enjoyed it.
Kea is a wonderfully feisty fighter with a warm heart but, for me, this story excelled with the lover/enemy Ikane who leaps, or should I say smoulders, off the page. I defy you not to root for them both by the end.
I'm now moving on to book 2 which should tell you a lot about my need to see how it turns out.
An epic, battlescarred 4 stars
May 6, 2022
This was one of the best books I’ve read in a long time. The characters were amazing and authentic. The chemistry was addicting. I’m diving right into book two! 👏👏👏
February 28, 2020
Oh my gosh this was so good. I need the sequel RIGHT NOW!
Review:
Miller is insanely talented when in comes to world building. Not only is the world described fantastically, but our characters are amazing as well. Kea is one of the best characters I've ever read; she sacrifices herself for her country, stays to help fight with rebellions, and would loose her love if it meant saving him. Speaking of the love interest: IKANE IS AMAZING! I love him, would I dare say that he is on the top of my favourite Male characters list? Yes. Ikane is selfless, and funny, smart, and attractive (not that that has anything to do with his character 🙃).
This is one of my favourite books of the year, I can't wait for the sequel (already bought!) and I'm excited for the future of this author!
~ Sorry if there are any spelling errors, this was written on my phone.
Review:
Miller is insanely talented when in comes to world building. Not only is the world described fantastically, but our characters are amazing as well. Kea is one of the best characters I've ever read; she sacrifices herself for her country, stays to help fight with rebellions, and would loose her love if it meant saving him. Speaking of the love interest: IKANE IS AMAZING! I love him, would I dare say that he is on the top of my favourite Male characters list? Yes. Ikane is selfless, and funny, smart, and attractive (not that that has anything to do with his character 🙃).
This is one of my favourite books of the year, I can't wait for the sequel (already bought!) and I'm excited for the future of this author!
~ Sorry if there are any spelling errors, this was written on my phone.
August 27, 2025
This story was so intricate and involved (a little Tolkien-esk) and the land that was created was cool. I loved the created history that entwined through the story. But there was just SO MUCH going on! I think I would have liked it better if it was split into two different books, so that I could have absorbed it more and so some places could have slowed and grown some.
I am interested to see where the Saga goes.
I am interested to see where the Saga goes.
February 15, 2021
5 out of 5!
Keatep Brendagger is a promising soldier who is chosen to escort Princess Serah to Prince Sander's coronation. Things don't go as planned. She starts having recurring nightmares about a ruby stone. She wakes with a bloody nose, and fire burning her bones. It has everything! Action, chosen one, forbidden love, secret royalty, and an ancient unseen menace.
What I liked:
The writing is exquisite. The author really drew me into the story by employing all the senses. The action sequences are well-choreographed, exciting, and they just keep coming. I was feeling so bad for the MC, for the amount of abuse the author put her through, but Keatep is one tough woman. The romance is sweet and satisfying. The characters are well-drawn and engaging. The villain is sufficiently bad and mad at the same time. The pacing is very well done. It speeds up and slows down in the right amount and the worldbuilding is really well done.
What I didn't like:
I can't think of one thing I didn't like. In all honesty, this was everything an epic fantasy should be and then some.
Overall:
I have already added the sequel to my list and I can't wait to see where the next novel takes me.
Keatep Brendagger is a promising soldier who is chosen to escort Princess Serah to Prince Sander's coronation. Things don't go as planned. She starts having recurring nightmares about a ruby stone. She wakes with a bloody nose, and fire burning her bones. It has everything! Action, chosen one, forbidden love, secret royalty, and an ancient unseen menace.
What I liked:
The writing is exquisite. The author really drew me into the story by employing all the senses. The action sequences are well-choreographed, exciting, and they just keep coming. I was feeling so bad for the MC, for the amount of abuse the author put her through, but Keatep is one tough woman. The romance is sweet and satisfying. The characters are well-drawn and engaging. The villain is sufficiently bad and mad at the same time. The pacing is very well done. It speeds up and slows down in the right amount and the worldbuilding is really well done.
What I didn't like:
I can't think of one thing I didn't like. In all honesty, this was everything an epic fantasy should be and then some.
Overall:
I have already added the sequel to my list and I can't wait to see where the next novel takes me.
July 29, 2023
This one goes to the "Just One More Chapter Before I Go To Sleep-OMG Is That The Sun?!" shelf.
Amazing writing, fantastic characters, and a story that grabs you and won't let go.
C.K. Miller can give a masterclass on Strong Female Characters. Keatep is the most determined, kind, and courageous woman I've ever read. While she grew up with a loving father figure and a wonderful friend by her side, she trained harder than any other soldier to protect the kingdom and the people she loved. Facing immeasurable danger and coming to terms with her terrible destiny, she fights will all her might to overcome everything this evil, EVIL author throws at her.
I mean... is there some sort of injury she missed during her journey? I think my body still aches just thinking of every broken bone and debilitating wound. And the poisoning. Don't forget the poisoning.
Aren't we missing something? Her heart! Of course, we need to break that organ too!
Don't get me wrong, this book is fantastic. But did she really need to fall in love with the absolute worst (best!) guy around? Was it really necessary to wait for her to share a nanosecond of happiness with her dad before the guy croaks (okay, I forgive you that)? Can at least her best friend stand by her side when she loses almost everything? No... well T_T
But you won't touch the horses, right? Not the beautiful, loyal horsie that Keatep loves like... NOOOOOOO!!!!
Yeah, I loved it. I 100% recommend this book. And therapy.
Amazing writing, fantastic characters, and a story that grabs you and won't let go.
C.K. Miller can give a masterclass on Strong Female Characters. Keatep is the most determined, kind, and courageous woman I've ever read. While she grew up with a loving father figure and a wonderful friend by her side, she trained harder than any other soldier to protect the kingdom and the people she loved. Facing immeasurable danger and coming to terms with her terrible destiny, she fights will all her might to overcome everything this evil, EVIL author throws at her.
I mean... is there some sort of injury she missed during her journey? I think my body still aches just thinking of every broken bone and debilitating wound. And the poisoning. Don't forget the poisoning.
Aren't we missing something? Her heart! Of course, we need to break that organ too!
Don't get me wrong, this book is fantastic. But did she really need to fall in love with the absolute worst (best!) guy around? Was it really necessary to wait for her to share a nanosecond of happiness with her dad before the guy croaks (okay, I forgive you that)? Can at least her best friend stand by her side when she loses almost everything? No... well T_T
But you won't touch the horses, right? Not the beautiful, loyal horsie that Keatep loves like... NOOOOOOO!!!!
Yeah, I loved it. I 100% recommend this book. And therapy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 13, 2021
Stunning & exquisite! A story that grabs you from start to finish, and doesn't let go even after you finish! The writing in particular is artistically complex and beautiful! As a poet, I fell in love with C.K. Miller's use of prose and the English language. There's just something addicting about the voice and rhythm of this book. The story by itself would be a winner, but combined with the masterful writing, this need to be on your shelf now! Can't recommend this book enough, and Book 2 is already in my queue! I'm so excited to see what happens next in this world that Book 2 jumped the line of my TBR list! Definitely gonna start it this week! Do yourself a favor and buy this book!
July 17, 2025
Get reeled in!
The unfathomable quest, this is one where the author knows how to weave a wicked tale, and just when you think it's going to be easy that the mystery is solved, she unleashes the unimaginable! Characters that will bring you back night after night yearning for a resolve, clues, hints, and a cliffhanger you didn't see coming.
But hours later, you keep thinking about it, and you'll be reaching for book two. To not only get to the bottom of this tale, but because the Author has challenged you to! Wicked suspense & intrigue!
The unfathomable quest, this is one where the author knows how to weave a wicked tale, and just when you think it's going to be easy that the mystery is solved, she unleashes the unimaginable! Characters that will bring you back night after night yearning for a resolve, clues, hints, and a cliffhanger you didn't see coming.
But hours later, you keep thinking about it, and you'll be reaching for book two. To not only get to the bottom of this tale, but because the Author has challenged you to! Wicked suspense & intrigue!
January 14, 2025
I just finished 'The Phoenix Host,' the first book in the Roanfire Saga, and enjoyed it enough to pick up the next book, 'The Leviathan Prince,' which I look forward to beginning soon. Although I've read that the series is intended for readers 14 to 18 years old, the story is engaging with a solid plot and good action, making it suitable for any adult who appreciates good epic fantasy.
December 30, 2021
Imaginative and enjoyable read
This book was very enjoyable to read. C.K. Miller does a great job with the development of the characters, their challenges, and the world they live in. There’s a lot of variety and action that is very well described and easy to follow.
This book was very enjoyable to read. C.K. Miller does a great job with the development of the characters, their challenges, and the world they live in. There’s a lot of variety and action that is very well described and easy to follow.
July 3, 2023
Torn between 2 opinions
I loved the main character.
I hated all the pain and loss she endured.
I do not know if I want to continue in this journey...the cost is too great to my mind, spirit, and soul.
But I long to know what is next.
I do not know what I will do.
I loved the main character.
I hated all the pain and loss she endured.
I do not know if I want to continue in this journey...the cost is too great to my mind, spirit, and soul.
But I long to know what is next.
I do not know what I will do.
December 21, 2019
420 pages of pain. Stopped reading half way. Biased reviews don't do anyone a favor.
May 1, 2024
Loved this book! I am so glad the whole series is out so I don't have to wait. Can't wait to dive into the second one. Do yourself a favor and read this book! Such a fun read
March 12, 2025
Really well written
July 17, 2023
I finished this book with mixed emotions. I enjoyed the world and the writing.
I didn't enjoy the pain the main character experienced thru most of the book.
It will be some time before I have recovered sufficiently to consider reading the next volumes. This is purely a personal issue and not any opinion intended to be negative towards the author .
I didn't enjoy the pain the main character experienced thru most of the book.
It will be some time before I have recovered sufficiently to consider reading the next volumes. This is purely a personal issue and not any opinion intended to be negative towards the author .
May 26, 2021
An entertaining, clean story with an engaging journey. Likable characters and good formation of the world they live in: Some parts weren’t very believable or convincing toward the end, like the father daughter relationship of the heroine and the leadership given to her during critical moments.
Even though there is another book I didn’t feel it came to an end with enough resolved to stand alone.
Heard about this book on storymakers
Even though there is another book I didn’t feel it came to an end with enough resolved to stand alone.
Heard about this book on storymakers
February 28, 2020
While this isn't my normal genre the beautiful cover drew me in. I read the book in just a few days (I know it says it took me a month ish but... I could only read during down times at work. Really it only took a few days)
The work CK Miller creates is well formed and described. Characters were so relatable and developed but man what really sold me was that ending. Oh my gosh that ending!
The work CK Miller creates is well formed and described. Characters were so relatable and developed but man what really sold me was that ending. Oh my gosh that ending!
March 31, 2022
I really enjoyed this book. I stayed up way too late to finish it. It had enough action to keep the plot moving but it didn't feel like things were just jammed in there for the purpose of keeping the plot moving. Everything felt purposeful. Character development felt good. The plot was engaging. I have already picked up book 2.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews