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The Last Phoenix #1
Wings of Fire
She’s a phoenix. He’s a grim reaper. They were never meant to have a spark, let alone ignite a slow-burning inferno.
By day, I’m Veronica Neill, a barista serving up overpriced lattes in the middle of Miami. By night, I’m the most elusive magical thief in the supernatural underworld. Stealing enchanted artifacts for vampires, witches, and sorcerers is just another day in the life for me, and it’s a good life...
...until I’m framed for murder.
Suddenly, I’m the magical world’s most wanted. The Death Enforcement Agency is after me. My vampire client is out for blood. And the only person standing between me and a very permanent vacation to a dungeon is Thane Munro, the devastatingly handsome grim reaper sent to drag me in.
He’s my reluctant partner in a hunt for the truth, and the connection between us is undeniable, a dangerous spark in a world determined to snuff me out. But with a vampire hot on my heels and the supernatural authorities closing in, trusting Thane might be my only way to survive.
Except, revealing my true self could be my final mistake.
With deadly secrets, slow-burning chemistry, and hidden identities, The Last Phoenix urban fantasy romance series is perfect for fans of strong heroines, supernatural heists, and high-stakes espionage. Start this bestselling series today!
WINGS OF FIRE is the 1st book of 7 in The Last Phoenix series, containing fast-paced action, snarky humor, sexy grim reapers, a hearty dose of swearing, and a splash of slow-burn romance. Fans of Nalini Singh’s Guild Hunters, Ilona Andrews’s Hidden Legacy, or Seanan McGuire’s InCryptid series may find The Last Phoenix a delightful addition to the Urban Fantasy genre.
Find out why readers are RAVING about this series!
★★★★★ 'I’m Totally Addicted to this Series'
★★★★★ 'I blew through the first 3 books in just two days.'
★★★★★ 'The story line keeps me on the edge of my seat'
★★★★★ 'a fast paced story that grabs your attention at the start and never lets go'
★★★★★ 'This series just gets better and better'
★★★★★ 'a series that has been a true treasure for me to read'
★★★★★ 'I fell in love with all the wordplay in both the dialogue and the narrative'
★★★★★ 'Winner for me!'
★★★★★ 'If you enjoy a fast paced urban fantasy with action, mystery, adventure, suspense, and a touch of romance, this book is for you!'
By day, I’m Veronica Neill, a barista serving up overpriced lattes in the middle of Miami. By night, I’m the most elusive magical thief in the supernatural underworld. Stealing enchanted artifacts for vampires, witches, and sorcerers is just another day in the life for me, and it’s a good life...
...until I’m framed for murder.
Suddenly, I’m the magical world’s most wanted. The Death Enforcement Agency is after me. My vampire client is out for blood. And the only person standing between me and a very permanent vacation to a dungeon is Thane Munro, the devastatingly handsome grim reaper sent to drag me in.
He’s my reluctant partner in a hunt for the truth, and the connection between us is undeniable, a dangerous spark in a world determined to snuff me out. But with a vampire hot on my heels and the supernatural authorities closing in, trusting Thane might be my only way to survive.
Except, revealing my true self could be my final mistake.
With deadly secrets, slow-burning chemistry, and hidden identities, The Last Phoenix urban fantasy romance series is perfect for fans of strong heroines, supernatural heists, and high-stakes espionage. Start this bestselling series today!
WINGS OF FIRE is the 1st book of 7 in The Last Phoenix series, containing fast-paced action, snarky humor, sexy grim reapers, a hearty dose of swearing, and a splash of slow-burn romance. Fans of Nalini Singh’s Guild Hunters, Ilona Andrews’s Hidden Legacy, or Seanan McGuire’s InCryptid series may find The Last Phoenix a delightful addition to the Urban Fantasy genre.
Find out why readers are RAVING about this series!
★★★★★ 'I’m Totally Addicted to this Series'
★★★★★ 'I blew through the first 3 books in just two days.'
★★★★★ 'The story line keeps me on the edge of my seat'
★★★★★ 'a fast paced story that grabs your attention at the start and never lets go'
★★★★★ 'This series just gets better and better'
★★★★★ 'a series that has been a true treasure for me to read'
★★★★★ 'I fell in love with all the wordplay in both the dialogue and the narrative'
★★★★★ 'Winner for me!'
★★★★★ 'If you enjoy a fast paced urban fantasy with action, mystery, adventure, suspense, and a touch of romance, this book is for you!'
251 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 8, 2020
939 people are currently reading
1700 people want to read
About the author
Stephanie Mirro
29 books243 followersWant the longer, more entertaining story? Visit stephaniemirro.com/about
Stephanie Mirro writes bold, adventurous fantasy for readers who love a little heat with their heartbreak, and maybe a splash of chaos. As a proudly neurodivergent author, she creates fierce, complex characters—neurodivergent ones included—who tackle impossible odds armed with sharp wit and questionable life choices. When not crafting mythology-rich worlds or morally grey heroes, Stephanie can be found bingeing heist movies, searching for her next caffeine fix, or accidentally setting things on fire in the name of creativity.
Stephanie Mirro writes bold, adventurous fantasy for readers who love a little heat with their heartbreak, and maybe a splash of chaos. As a proudly neurodivergent author, she creates fierce, complex characters—neurodivergent ones included—who tackle impossible odds armed with sharp wit and questionable life choices. When not crafting mythology-rich worlds or morally grey heroes, Stephanie can be found bingeing heist movies, searching for her next caffeine fix, or accidentally setting things on fire in the name of creativity.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 159 reviews
May 28, 2021
I thought this was entertaining, but a little on the shallow side. Veronica tells us she's badass because she's trained her whole life to be. But you don't really feel it. It's just something we're told and pops up conveniently when needed. Need weapons...oh look, she has a secret stash. Need to get around a security issue...oh look, her BFF is a hacker genius. Need to fight demons...oh look, she happens to have a demon fighting sword. Need to fight vampires...oh look she happens to have wood filled bullets. But nothing about her feels like a hardened, trained warrior or someone who has had to live the sort of life that would require it.
I liked the 'love' interest well enough, but he's a cardboard cutout with the personality to match. The villain is evil for the most cliched reasons ever. I bet if I told you their gender alone, you'd be able to guess their motiviations. And I'd figured out the twist at the end very early one.
And lastly, on a purely personal pet-peeve sort of level, "Wings of Fire: A Kickass Urban Fantasy With Romance (The Last Phoenix, Book 1)" is pretentious. What the hell is that "A Kickass Urban Fantasy With Romance?" It's not part of the title. That's not where you'd put a tag line. It's just this random assertion in an unexpected place.
I know that all sounds negative, and certainly the book could have been less cotton-candy like, but I did enjoy it for the mere escapism of it.
I liked the 'love' interest well enough, but he's a cardboard cutout with the personality to match. The villain is evil for the most cliched reasons ever. I bet if I told you their gender alone, you'd be able to guess their motiviations. And I'd figured out the twist at the end very early one.
And lastly, on a purely personal pet-peeve sort of level, "Wings of Fire: A Kickass Urban Fantasy With Romance (The Last Phoenix, Book 1)" is pretentious. What the hell is that "A Kickass Urban Fantasy With Romance?" It's not part of the title. That's not where you'd put a tag line. It's just this random assertion in an unexpected place.
I know that all sounds negative, and certainly the book could have been less cotton-candy like, but I did enjoy it for the mere escapism of it.
February 4, 2021
Rating: 4.5/5.0
“Wings of Fire” brings the world of vampires, witches, grim reapers, humans, and angels together in a delightful cocktail for all lovers of dark fantasy with a mild dose of romance.
Read full review in the 2021 February issue of InD'tale Magazine.
“Wings of Fire” brings the world of vampires, witches, grim reapers, humans, and angels together in a delightful cocktail for all lovers of dark fantasy with a mild dose of romance.
Read full review in the 2021 February issue of InD'tale Magazine.
might-read
July 27, 2021I was perfectly interested after reading the blurb and then I came to the comparison:
Oh no you don’t! You can’t throw around names like that. Nalini Singh AND Ilona Andrews?? AND? I know I was the dumbass who meant to write to Ilona Andrews and instead called them Nalini Singh(Yes, I was writing to her too and accidentally mixed them up. It was embarrassing.🙈) but they’re very different authors! How can this book be both? Just name dropping one of them I would be skeptical but BOTH?
I’M GONNA READ THIS BOOK AND YOU BETTER WATCH OUT. The AUDACITY. I think reviewers should be able to point out if a book gives them a similar feeling as another writer’s but I find it so annoying when publishers do it because it’s NEVER TRUE.
So just so they know, I’ll read it but I’ll be twice as mad if it’s not spectacular and that’s just not a good place be. Not for me and not for this poor author.
Oh no you don’t! You can’t throw around names like that. Nalini Singh AND Ilona Andrews?? AND? I know I was the dumbass who meant to write to Ilona Andrews and instead called them Nalini Singh(Yes, I was writing to her too and accidentally mixed them up. It was embarrassing.🙈) but they’re very different authors! How can this book be both? Just name dropping one of them I would be skeptical but BOTH?
I’M GONNA READ THIS BOOK AND YOU BETTER WATCH OUT. The AUDACITY. I think reviewers should be able to point out if a book gives them a similar feeling as another writer’s but I find it so annoying when publishers do it because it’s NEVER TRUE.
So just so they know, I’ll read it but I’ll be twice as mad if it’s not spectacular and that’s just not a good place be. Not for me and not for this poor author.
December 22, 2023
1.5 stars
Not a fan. The author managed to ruin a decent premise. The bad guy was obvious. The characters weren’t that interesting & the FMC was not as bad as she thought herself to be. Sadly I purchased a bundle of book 1-3 in the audible version. I did enjoy the fact the book was centered in my childhood city of Miami. Revisiting my childhood neighborhood & stomping grounds made me nostalgic.I wouldn’t recommend this book but will give book 2 a try. If only because I’ve nothing better to read.
Not a fan. The author managed to ruin a decent premise. The bad guy was obvious. The characters weren’t that interesting & the FMC was not as bad as she thought herself to be. Sadly I purchased a bundle of book 1-3 in the audible version. I did enjoy the fact the book was centered in my childhood city of Miami. Revisiting my childhood neighborhood & stomping grounds made me nostalgic.I wouldn’t recommend this book but will give book 2 a try. If only because I’ve nothing better to read.
January 23, 2021
Veronica (or the Falcon) is the last phoenix and she can shift into a bird when needed. She collects hard-to-find magical artifacts and this time she has a contract with a dangerous vampire to collect a special box. Unfortunately, the box is stolen before she can do so, and she soon finds she is wanted by the DEA (Death Enforcement Agency) for the murder of a fae and the box she stole. The only way to get the DEA off her back (and some bounty hunters) is to join forces with one of the DEA agents (and grim reaper) Thane Munro.
I read this book in one day and really enjoyed it. I immediately pre-ordered book 2 (this is a 7 book series), even though this one does not end on a cliffhanger.
There are some things that do bother me and I am not sure they are little plot-holes or things that will be explained later. Like: why were the reapers at the party? Why does Veronica 'hide' her shifter identity by calling herself 'Falcon' (like: duh...). Why did her parents leave Veronica and her brother at such a young age when they have a very long lifespan? Etc. etc.
Overall I just got engrossed in the story and liked Veronica as a character. She does lust after Thane (even though he is - in essence - dead) and I am not sure about him yet. He actually did not do anything essential in the story as of yet in my opinion.
So... on to the next in February. I look forward to it.
I read this book in one day and really enjoyed it. I immediately pre-ordered book 2 (this is a 7 book series), even though this one does not end on a cliffhanger.
There are some things that do bother me and I am not sure they are little plot-holes or things that will be explained later. Like: why were the reapers at the party? Why does Veronica 'hide' her shifter identity by calling herself 'Falcon' (like: duh...). Why did her parents leave Veronica and her brother at such a young age when they have a very long lifespan? Etc. etc.
Overall I just got engrossed in the story and liked Veronica as a character. She does lust after Thane (even though he is - in essence - dead) and I am not sure about him yet. He actually did not do anything essential in the story as of yet in my opinion.
So... on to the next in February. I look forward to it.
October 17, 2024
Good introduction to this new world and the series.
FMC for me is not very likeable, then again she says it herself, she's not a people person. Although I don't like her yet, i see I think she is a bad ass in her not so modest way. Although compared to someone like Kate Daniels and Secret McQueen, she would be an assistant to their bad asstery, but she has a big heart for the ones she's cares about and you can tell she would burn the world to save them, a big indicator of a bad ass supreme in the making.
She's suffered deep loss, including her brother and parents. She's the last of her kind, so she's alone in some ways others may not understand. And she has the pressure of saving her race one day...so maybe she is more than cocky to overshadow it all.
The MMC is a grim reaper and has his own off-putting characteristics, but he's a little charming, too. I may end up liking him before I totally warm up to her. Although, in the end, I was hoping for our FMC's sake, he did something that indicated he really liked her. So maybe I have warmed up to her 🤔
Anyway, the writing is simple, so it can be annoying sometimes. But the idea, world politics, and paranormal backgrounds are interesting enough to pique my interest.
There is steam in this slow burn. Mention of fantasy smut but no smex or smut.
Triggers - bullying and suicide (but mention not describing the act), trafficking, mention of forced imprisonment through discrimination of species, race. But not as dark as it seems, the above is not written with much description.
3.5 stars
FMC for me is not very likeable, then again she says it herself, she's not a people person. Although I don't like her yet, i see I think she is a bad ass in her not so modest way. Although compared to someone like Kate Daniels and Secret McQueen, she would be an assistant to their bad asstery, but she has a big heart for the ones she's cares about and you can tell she would burn the world to save them, a big indicator of a bad ass supreme in the making.
She's suffered deep loss, including her brother and parents. She's the last of her kind, so she's alone in some ways others may not understand. And she has the pressure of saving her race one day...so maybe she is more than cocky to overshadow it all.
The MMC is a grim reaper and has his own off-putting characteristics, but he's a little charming, too. I may end up liking him before I totally warm up to her. Although, in the end, I was hoping for our FMC's sake, he did something that indicated he really liked her. So maybe I have warmed up to her 🤔
Anyway, the writing is simple, so it can be annoying sometimes. But the idea, world politics, and paranormal backgrounds are interesting enough to pique my interest.
There is steam in this slow burn. Mention of fantasy smut but no smex or smut.
Triggers - bullying and suicide (but mention not describing the act), trafficking, mention of forced imprisonment through discrimination of species, race. But not as dark as it seems, the above is not written with much description.
3.5 stars
Read
November 18, 2021
They call me a thief like it's a bad thing.
Life as an avian shifter and "acquirer" of fantastical things is dangerously sexy and fun. At least it is until someone beats me to my latest mark, and I'm blamed for a gruesome murder I most certainly did not commit.
Now, I've got a choice to make. I can get taken in by the hotter-than-hell agent sent by the Death Enforcement Agency, or wait for my bloodsucking client to realize I've failed at his job. I don’t like either door, so I'll take the window instead.
Time to track down the real killer and clear my name.
Because if I don’t solve this murder fast, then I might just be facing a lifetime in a grim reaper's prison. Or worse, a lifetime of servitude to my client, a vampire who’s turning out to be far more dangerous than I realized.
Fans of Nalini Singh’s Guild Hunters, Ilona Andrews’s Hidden Legacy, or Seanan McGuire’s InCryptid series will find The Last Phoenix a delightful new addition to the Urban Fantasy Romance genre. Start the adventure today!
WINGS OF FIRE is the 1st book of 7 in The Last Phoenix series, a kickass urban fantasy romance containing fast-paced action, snarky humor, sexy grim reapers, horrific vampires, a hearty dose of swearing, and a healthy splash of slow-burn fated mates romance.
Available on Kindle, Kindle Unlimited, Paperback, or Audiobook!*
What Amazon readers are saying about the series:
★★★★★ ' I’m Totally Addicted to this Series'
★★★★★ 'I blew through the first 3 books in just two days.'
★★★★★ 'The story line keeps me on the edge of my seat'
★★★★★ 'a fast paced story that grabs your attention at the start and never lets go'
★★★★★ 'This series just gets better and better'
★★★★★ 'a series that has been a true treasure for me to read'
★★★★★ 'I fell in love with all the wordplay in both the dialogue and the narrative'
★★★★★ 'Winner for me!'
★★★★★ 'If you enjoy a fast paced urban fantasy with action, mystery, adventure, suspense, and a touch of romance, this book is for you!'
*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
April 30, 2022
I wanted to like this book SO MUCH. As a major Ilona Andrews fan, I read the description and had high hopes, but this was nowhere near as good as any IA novel.
I think I read that this was the author's debut novel, and so I want to make clear that I think there is potential here and I hope that she continues to fine tune her craft as she moves forward in her career. The concept of the story was interesting - I think it could've been done really well.
Unfortunately, I just didn't find this book that enjoyable for a lot of reasons. The world-building was extremely lacking - there is a lot to the magic system that is still hugely unknown to the reader. Parts just felt like it was being made up while it was being written. There wasn't a lot of context or exposition to go off here. A decent prologue that took place before the family died could have handled a LOT of this.
Characters were ok, but the FMC was the poorest written of all. She has this "I'm not every girl" personality and she likes to talk about it all the time. Characters that talk about themselves to the reader too much inevitably lack depth and substance. A lot of what we learn about her is what she tells us instead of what we observe of her through her actions. Instead of coming off as this very strong and independent bad-ass heroine, she gives us snarky teenager vibes. Her backstory also doesn't really make a ton of sense either, but that's just my two cents.
Last, this is not a romance and that was disappointing. Maybe it isn't billed as one and I misunderstood. It's clear it could be - maybe it even heads that way in subsequent books, but there is no real romantic development between the MMC and FMC in this book.
I never write reviews this lengthy, I'm only offering my critique because I think that this book and author could have been really good and I suspect that this author will improve over time. I won't be finishing this series, but I definitely will be giving this author's next series a second chance.
I think I read that this was the author's debut novel, and so I want to make clear that I think there is potential here and I hope that she continues to fine tune her craft as she moves forward in her career. The concept of the story was interesting - I think it could've been done really well.
Unfortunately, I just didn't find this book that enjoyable for a lot of reasons. The world-building was extremely lacking - there is a lot to the magic system that is still hugely unknown to the reader. Parts just felt like it was being made up while it was being written. There wasn't a lot of context or exposition to go off here. A decent prologue that took place before the family died could have handled a LOT of this.
Characters were ok, but the FMC was the poorest written of all. She has this "I'm not every girl" personality and she likes to talk about it all the time. Characters that talk about themselves to the reader too much inevitably lack depth and substance. A lot of what we learn about her is what she tells us instead of what we observe of her through her actions. Instead of coming off as this very strong and independent bad-ass heroine, she gives us snarky teenager vibes. Her backstory also doesn't really make a ton of sense either, but that's just my two cents.
Last, this is not a romance and that was disappointing. Maybe it isn't billed as one and I misunderstood. It's clear it could be - maybe it even heads that way in subsequent books, but there is no real romantic development between the MMC and FMC in this book.
I never write reviews this lengthy, I'm only offering my critique because I think that this book and author could have been really good and I suspect that this author will improve over time. I won't be finishing this series, but I definitely will be giving this author's next series a second chance.
January 9, 2021
I was bamboozled
I loved this book, but I was tricked. You know how when you touch the center of the kindle page it shows you that you can buy the next in series. Well imagine my sadness when I thought I was going to read the next in series right then and it was a pre-order!! Yes, I pre-ordered it, only an idiot wouldn't but still. I was so excited. Now I have to wait until February 4. I loved all the characters in the story. Our heroine/thief is strong and capable. She knows her strengths and weaknesses and uses them accordingly. I can't wait to see what happens next. I am hoping to learn more about the Reaper, Angels, and Mads in the next book. Disappointment aside, this is quite an enjoyable read.
I loved this book, but I was tricked. You know how when you touch the center of the kindle page it shows you that you can buy the next in series. Well imagine my sadness when I thought I was going to read the next in series right then and it was a pre-order!! Yes, I pre-ordered it, only an idiot wouldn't but still. I was so excited. Now I have to wait until February 4. I loved all the characters in the story. Our heroine/thief is strong and capable. She knows her strengths and weaknesses and uses them accordingly. I can't wait to see what happens next. I am hoping to learn more about the Reaper, Angels, and Mads in the next book. Disappointment aside, this is quite an enjoyable read.
July 8, 2022
I liked this, but the plot and characters were a little too simple/straight forward? I've been on a streak of these types of books lately. Books that could have been so much better if the ideas were slightly more fleshed out and complex. This was still enjoyable and I believe I will continue on with the series.
May 9, 2022
WINGS OF FIRE was a fast paced and fun read and I'm really looking forward to more of Veronica's story and seeing how things develop with Thane! Stephanie Mirro's writing pulled me in right away and I quickly became invested in Veronica's story. The action starts from page one and never lets up and I loved how quickly things moved. The world building was a pretty standard paranormal set up with a variety of different beings -- vampires, shifters, witches, fae, etc. -- all living in secret from the humans. Overlooking it all are the angels who are in charge of the grim reapers who run the Death Enforcement Agency which policies the supernatural Community.
As a falcon shifter and the last remaining phoenix, Veronica puts her talents to use as a thief but her latest job results in her being framed for murder. Suddenly the tough, smart, and fearless Veronica is being hunted by the Death Enforcement Agency and she finds herself working with one of the reapers, Thane, in order to clear her name. This is a slow burn romance and as such nothing happens in this first book other than some flirty banter, heated stares, and some tingling when Veronica and Thane touch. I can't wait to see more of these two as well as find out more about Thane who is still a bit of a mystery by the end of WINGS OF FIRE.
Content Warning: references to Veronica's parents dying several years before; several mentions of Veronica's younger brother being bullied at school for being gay; at the start of the book Veronica believes her brother committed suicide before she finds out he was murdered; several references to Veronica needing to have a baby in order to continue the phoenix line
As a falcon shifter and the last remaining phoenix, Veronica puts her talents to use as a thief but her latest job results in her being framed for murder. Suddenly the tough, smart, and fearless Veronica is being hunted by the Death Enforcement Agency and she finds herself working with one of the reapers, Thane, in order to clear her name. This is a slow burn romance and as such nothing happens in this first book other than some flirty banter, heated stares, and some tingling when Veronica and Thane touch. I can't wait to see more of these two as well as find out more about Thane who is still a bit of a mystery by the end of WINGS OF FIRE.
Content Warning: references to Veronica's parents dying several years before; several mentions of Veronica's younger brother being bullied at school for being gay; at the start of the book Veronica believes her brother committed suicide before she finds out he was murdered; several references to Veronica needing to have a baby in order to continue the phoenix line
June 8, 2021
Great book
This book was full of action and the tension between V and Thane make this a hard book to put down. Can't wait to find out More about Vs past
This book was full of action and the tension between V and Thane make this a hard book to put down. Can't wait to find out More about Vs past
January 3, 2024
This was light and fun.
I will most likely continue this series.
I will most likely continue this series.
August 6, 2021
*Source* Kindle Unlimited
*Genre* Urban Fantasy
*Rating* 3.5
*Thoughts*
Wings of Fire, by author Stephanie Mirro, is the first installment in the authors The Last Phoenix. Set entirely in the Miami, Florida area, 27-year-old Veronica Neill lives two different lives. By day, she's a barista, by night she's a supernatural thief and a master acquirer of hard-to-find magical artifacts. Unfortunately for Veronica, the box she was hired to steal, is stolen before she can do so, and she soon finds she is wanted by the DEA (Death Enforcement Agency) for the murder of a fae and the box she stole.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
*Genre* Urban Fantasy
*Rating* 3.5
*Thoughts*
Wings of Fire, by author Stephanie Mirro, is the first installment in the authors The Last Phoenix. Set entirely in the Miami, Florida area, 27-year-old Veronica Neill lives two different lives. By day, she's a barista, by night she's a supernatural thief and a master acquirer of hard-to-find magical artifacts. Unfortunately for Veronica, the box she was hired to steal, is stolen before she can do so, and she soon finds she is wanted by the DEA (Death Enforcement Agency) for the murder of a fae and the box she stole.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
July 27, 2021
I don't recall how I began reading this series, but I really loved the author's Immortal Relics books and I probably emailed the author to fangirl about it.
--
Veronica (V) is one of the various mythological creatures living otherwise normal lives in Miami, secretly passing as human. But she has a double secret -- she is passing as a falcon shifter, when she is really the last living phoenix.
The back-to-back deaths of her parents and little brother have made V reckless. She has become an adrenaline junkie and cat burglar, chasing the high of a good heist and taking increasingly unnecessary risks.
Eventually, a heist does go bad, and V is framed for a horrific murder at the site. Thane Munro (the obligatory hot dude, obvs) is tasked with hunting her down and bringing her in to the magical authorities. Increasingly convinced of her innocence, Thane brings her into the investigation to discover the murderer and why they would want V out of the way, too.
Overall - a fun urban fantasy adventure with a likeable heroine you'd still like to whack on the head a time or two for her poor choices.
--
Veronica (V) is one of the various mythological creatures living otherwise normal lives in Miami, secretly passing as human. But she has a double secret -- she is passing as a falcon shifter, when she is really the last living phoenix.
The back-to-back deaths of her parents and little brother have made V reckless. She has become an adrenaline junkie and cat burglar, chasing the high of a good heist and taking increasingly unnecessary risks.
Eventually, a heist does go bad, and V is framed for a horrific murder at the site. Thane Munro (the obligatory hot dude, obvs) is tasked with hunting her down and bringing her in to the magical authorities. Increasingly convinced of her innocence, Thane brings her into the investigation to discover the murderer and why they would want V out of the way, too.
Overall - a fun urban fantasy adventure with a likeable heroine you'd still like to whack on the head a time or two for her poor choices.
January 14, 2021
This is book one of The Last Phoenix series and the main character is Veronica Neill, more commonly known just as V, but also known by her alias of the Falcon, for her less lawful endeavours. She is a very rare avian shifter, a phoenix, and after both her parents decided to leave their lives on Earth and return to the sun as such, she was left as a seventeen year old, responsible for a much younger brother. By the time her brother Maddox (Mad) became a teenager, and was suffering from a lot of bullying at school, he suddenly committed suicide, leaving her all alone. She hadn’t paid much attention to him, enjoying her freedom to go out and party hard and get drunk all the time. The responsibility of looking after someone else and her parent’s demands that she procreate and soon, to continue their family line, was just too much. Her brother’s unexpected and sudden death, set her off the rails even further and she took up a new role as a procurer of magical or so called fantastical artifacts, using her shifter abilities and the computer expertise of her friend and partner in crime, Kit Parker, who was also from a wealthy and powerful witch family, but refused to use magic apart from making potions.
Her latest acquisition ends up having been stolen, even before she got there and unfortunately for V, a dead body was also left in the room she had entered, but had been magically hidden from sight, until she was caught on camera in the hallway outside and her Falcon persona seen trying to leave the room. She should have known something was off about the job, since numerous other criminals had failed to succeed and she took the job against her better judgement, especially after meeting a Reaper, called Sophia Clark. Sophia is working to gain her wings and become an angel, but V had caught her doing something illegal a year before, whilst she herself had been in a compromising position, with both agreeing not to say anything about it to anyone. Had she recognized who V was under her mask, at the posh party? She was with another Reaper, called Thane Munro, as she finds out later, but neither of the Reapers were at the party to reap a soul, so why were they there? The next day, V finds her picture has been posted on a most wanted notice by the Death Enforcement Agency (DEA), and she is being tracked by Thane, the man in a mask she was so attracted to at the party, before she left to carry out her job, for a client only known as X.
Her identities both as herself and also as the Falcon have been revealed and blown much of any chances for her to get any more jobs from the paranormal community! Luckily, nobody seems to know her true shifter identity, nor her status as the last phoenix in existence. Her choices are very limited now, either get taken in by the hot agent and probably put to death immediately, as their law system isn’t quite the same as for humans, or wait for her client to figure out she has failed at her job and then probably come for her! X has a bad reputation and she knows that he will take his vengeance against her for failing, so tries to get a week to find the item and deliver it as hired for. Neither choice is ideal and she would rather try and figure out who actually killed the owner of the home and fae royalty, so she can clear her name and hope to get her reputation back. Major problem is that justice in the paranormal community is overseen by angels and she should never have been put forward as the killer, since angels shouldn’t lie, so what else is going on with the DEA, Reaper Sophia and her partner Thane, to have her framed for a murder and theft she didn’t do? She doesn’t trust Sophia, but she isn’t too sure that she can trust Thane or his boss Adam, who is an angel, either.
Why she is having such a reaction towards a dead but very handsome Reaper, she hasn’t figured out, but it certainly isn’t a relationship she would ever want to pursue, no matter how long it has been since she had a bit of action! V and Kit have to try and figure out the present location of the box they were hired to obtain, but X may have been playing with V, for his own purposes, and not ones that she will be happy with. The death of the fae at the party, was done in a very gruesome manner and more importantly, his soul was removed while he was still alive! Something very few would have the ability to do and just his death is causing problems within the fae community and issues with the new queen of the fae! She wants all fae to return to the fae realm and not be allowed to travel back and forth to the human realm, cutting down on human fae relationships and especially any mixed breed offspring. V has to come up with a list of real suspects for the murder and try to find proof of their guilt rather than hers. An interesting storyline and some fascinating characters. I can’t wait to read more of V, Kit and Thane and the adventures they may have together! Lots of action, some hot but clean romantic inclinations, and some obviously nasty bad guys and creeps all mixed together for an exciting read. Can’t wait to read the next in the series, Wings of Death. I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
Her latest acquisition ends up having been stolen, even before she got there and unfortunately for V, a dead body was also left in the room she had entered, but had been magically hidden from sight, until she was caught on camera in the hallway outside and her Falcon persona seen trying to leave the room. She should have known something was off about the job, since numerous other criminals had failed to succeed and she took the job against her better judgement, especially after meeting a Reaper, called Sophia Clark. Sophia is working to gain her wings and become an angel, but V had caught her doing something illegal a year before, whilst she herself had been in a compromising position, with both agreeing not to say anything about it to anyone. Had she recognized who V was under her mask, at the posh party? She was with another Reaper, called Thane Munro, as she finds out later, but neither of the Reapers were at the party to reap a soul, so why were they there? The next day, V finds her picture has been posted on a most wanted notice by the Death Enforcement Agency (DEA), and she is being tracked by Thane, the man in a mask she was so attracted to at the party, before she left to carry out her job, for a client only known as X.
Her identities both as herself and also as the Falcon have been revealed and blown much of any chances for her to get any more jobs from the paranormal community! Luckily, nobody seems to know her true shifter identity, nor her status as the last phoenix in existence. Her choices are very limited now, either get taken in by the hot agent and probably put to death immediately, as their law system isn’t quite the same as for humans, or wait for her client to figure out she has failed at her job and then probably come for her! X has a bad reputation and she knows that he will take his vengeance against her for failing, so tries to get a week to find the item and deliver it as hired for. Neither choice is ideal and she would rather try and figure out who actually killed the owner of the home and fae royalty, so she can clear her name and hope to get her reputation back. Major problem is that justice in the paranormal community is overseen by angels and she should never have been put forward as the killer, since angels shouldn’t lie, so what else is going on with the DEA, Reaper Sophia and her partner Thane, to have her framed for a murder and theft she didn’t do? She doesn’t trust Sophia, but she isn’t too sure that she can trust Thane or his boss Adam, who is an angel, either.
Why she is having such a reaction towards a dead but very handsome Reaper, she hasn’t figured out, but it certainly isn’t a relationship she would ever want to pursue, no matter how long it has been since she had a bit of action! V and Kit have to try and figure out the present location of the box they were hired to obtain, but X may have been playing with V, for his own purposes, and not ones that she will be happy with. The death of the fae at the party, was done in a very gruesome manner and more importantly, his soul was removed while he was still alive! Something very few would have the ability to do and just his death is causing problems within the fae community and issues with the new queen of the fae! She wants all fae to return to the fae realm and not be allowed to travel back and forth to the human realm, cutting down on human fae relationships and especially any mixed breed offspring. V has to come up with a list of real suspects for the murder and try to find proof of their guilt rather than hers. An interesting storyline and some fascinating characters. I can’t wait to read more of V, Kit and Thane and the adventures they may have together! Lots of action, some hot but clean romantic inclinations, and some obviously nasty bad guys and creeps all mixed together for an exciting read. Can’t wait to read the next in the series, Wings of Death. I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
June 30, 2021
I was given a free review copy of the audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
This is my favorite genre of books - Urban Fantasy with a kickass heroine and a bit of romance. That's how this series is even described - it's even awkwardly in the title. Wings of Fire, being the first in the series, gives us a glimpse into the world with a bit of backstory, but I do feel like there's so much more to learn. More to learn about the girl who is Veronica, a procurer of magical artifacts for hire. More to learn about her family, the reasons why she is the last of her kind.
I liked Veronica, but we don't get too much depth of character here. She's brave, strong, fights, and has some internal struggles from her brother's death and her trying to keep her Phoenix identity a secret. I would expect this character to grow over the course of the series, as with my favorite more-than-just-a-reaper series, but just from book one, we end up with a more superficial view of our heroine.
There was quite a bit of fast plot, which you know by now I'm a fan of. Much happened in this short read/listen, some surprising, some not. There was betrayal, lies, kidnapping, and servitude, and of course some murder. We have a creepy Master Vampire, some reapers that we don't know if we can trust throughout the story, a mastermind with an evil plan to capture and own the rarest species for obviously selfish and sexist reasons, and then there's being framed for a murder and being hunted by the Death Enforcement Agency. There are shifters obviously, and angels, and I already mentioned reapers, and vampires, so your mixed bag of awesome paranormal creatures. You know, a typical urban fantasy romp. But, being a very short book, it all happened fast, and sometimes conveniently, and sometimes it felt like something was missing in the details.
The bit of romance was definitely lacking in this one. It's described as a slow burn, and I wonder how many books it burns through before getting anywhere. We did start with a "no way never would I ever with his one he's not even alive", and end with "well I'm curious about him somewhat and surprisingly attracted to him so we'll see" so I suppose there's more build up in their relationship in future installations of the series.
Now let's move on to the audio narration since I listened. I very much enjoyed the audiobook narrator. Great voice, pacing, tone. I very much enjoyed the performance and will be looking for other books narrated by Joanna Roddy.
I enjoyed that the book ended with the story nicely tied up, with some questions left unanswered to be further explored in the future books of the series. I'd be interested in reading or listening to the next one.
This is my favorite genre of books - Urban Fantasy with a kickass heroine and a bit of romance. That's how this series is even described - it's even awkwardly in the title. Wings of Fire, being the first in the series, gives us a glimpse into the world with a bit of backstory, but I do feel like there's so much more to learn. More to learn about the girl who is Veronica, a procurer of magical artifacts for hire. More to learn about her family, the reasons why she is the last of her kind.
I liked Veronica, but we don't get too much depth of character here. She's brave, strong, fights, and has some internal struggles from her brother's death and her trying to keep her Phoenix identity a secret. I would expect this character to grow over the course of the series, as with my favorite more-than-just-a-reaper series, but just from book one, we end up with a more superficial view of our heroine.
There was quite a bit of fast plot, which you know by now I'm a fan of. Much happened in this short read/listen, some surprising, some not. There was betrayal, lies, kidnapping, and servitude, and of course some murder. We have a creepy Master Vampire, some reapers that we don't know if we can trust throughout the story, a mastermind with an evil plan to capture and own the rarest species for obviously selfish and sexist reasons, and then there's being framed for a murder and being hunted by the Death Enforcement Agency. There are shifters obviously, and angels, and I already mentioned reapers, and vampires, so your mixed bag of awesome paranormal creatures. You know, a typical urban fantasy romp. But, being a very short book, it all happened fast, and sometimes conveniently, and sometimes it felt like something was missing in the details.
The bit of romance was definitely lacking in this one. It's described as a slow burn, and I wonder how many books it burns through before getting anywhere. We did start with a "no way never would I ever with his one he's not even alive", and end with "well I'm curious about him somewhat and surprisingly attracted to him so we'll see" so I suppose there's more build up in their relationship in future installations of the series.
Now let's move on to the audio narration since I listened. I very much enjoyed the audiobook narrator. Great voice, pacing, tone. I very much enjoyed the performance and will be looking for other books narrated by Joanna Roddy.
I enjoyed that the book ended with the story nicely tied up, with some questions left unanswered to be further explored in the future books of the series. I'd be interested in reading or listening to the next one.
March 27, 2022
I have loved the story and will definitely continue the series! It's fast-paced, which I love! I am always exasperated when the main character is going through a crisis and they're like "Let's have a picnic!". No, this main character has her head properly on her shoulders and goes directly after resolving her problems. Besides that, the world and characters are wonderfully built: it was easy to understand the way the universe+society works and the characters have properly formed personalities. It's one of the few books where I have no complaints about these aspects.
The narration was nicely done, Joanna Roddy gave each character their voice and I could easily differentiate them. Her tone and pace seemed perfect for me.
My only two complaints are: chapter 15 and 22 clip at the very end (they're missing the last 6-8 words; I got the ebook and checked; you don't miss much, tho, it's easy to fill in the meaning); and who in the world did the cover!? I usually love fantasy covers, even when sometimes they're not the best photo manipulations out there. But the Barbie size body and totally different colored skintone ONLY on the face are completely ruining this cover for me. Such a pity... :(
The narration was nicely done, Joanna Roddy gave each character their voice and I could easily differentiate them. Her tone and pace seemed perfect for me.
My only two complaints are: chapter 15 and 22 clip at the very end (they're missing the last 6-8 words; I got the ebook and checked; you don't miss much, tho, it's easy to fill in the meaning); and who in the world did the cover!? I usually love fantasy covers, even when sometimes they're not the best photo manipulations out there. But the Barbie size body and totally different colored skintone ONLY on the face are completely ruining this cover for me. Such a pity... :(
October 21, 2020
I am an avid reader and if a book doesn't catch my attention right away, I don't even bother reading on. Wings of Fire was a book that I couldn't put down. The characters were very likeable and the relationships within the storyline were very engaging....I WANTED to get to know them more and see where the book was headed.
When the book ended, I was disappointed that it was finished and am looking forward to the next book in the series!
I have read another series that Stephanie Mirro has written and really enjoy how she incorporates mythical creatures and gods into her stories.
Read this, you won't be sorry!
When the book ended, I was disappointed that it was finished and am looking forward to the next book in the series!
I have read another series that Stephanie Mirro has written and really enjoy how she incorporates mythical creatures and gods into her stories.
Read this, you won't be sorry!
June 23, 2023
I enjoyed this for it's pure escapism fun, but it could have been so much more.
Set in the Miami, Florida area, Veronica Neill (27F) lives two different lives. Her day job is that of a barista coffee snob, by night she's a supernatural thief and a master acquirer. Honestly, she doesn't appear to be very good at either of them, from what we see. She tells us she's great and kick ass, but fails to deliver. It feels like every problem is easily solved with a handy tool she just happens to have. Even the love interest felt one dimensional, although there was a bit of hope for growth from him at the end.
I'd figured out who the real villain was very early on and was fully expecting the twist at the end.
I gave it a solid 3 stars. It was a fun read and I may read more, but I'm not racing out to tell all my friends about it.
Set in the Miami, Florida area, Veronica Neill (27F) lives two different lives. Her day job is that of a barista coffee snob, by night she's a supernatural thief and a master acquirer. Honestly, she doesn't appear to be very good at either of them, from what we see. She tells us she's great and kick ass, but fails to deliver. It feels like every problem is easily solved with a handy tool she just happens to have. Even the love interest felt one dimensional, although there was a bit of hope for growth from him at the end.
I'd figured out who the real villain was very early on and was fully expecting the twist at the end.
I gave it a solid 3 stars. It was a fun read and I may read more, but I'm not racing out to tell all my friends about it.
September 18, 2023
I really enjoyed this urban fantasy novel. It is book one in what looks like a seven book series. It takes place in Miami, and the main character is the last Phoenix. We don't really see a lot of phoenixes in books. So this is a lovely change.
I will warn you that there is a lot of pressure for this character to procreate because she is the last of her species, so people who tend to bounce hard off of things like that may not enjoy this book.
Also, the person I really like better be the person she ends up with!
A solid series!
I will warn you that there is a lot of pressure for this character to procreate because she is the last of her species, so people who tend to bounce hard off of things like that may not enjoy this book.
Also, the person I really like better be the person she ends up with!
A solid series!
January 8, 2021
Amazing start of a new series!!! 🤩⭐
This is the first book of Stephanie I have read and I have to say she's stuck with me from now on 😁
This is a fantastic, action-packed, fast paced, unputdownable installment, with amazing MC, mysterious plot and great world building 💯 💕
V and Thane dinamic duo is explosive and hot, both are powerful in their own way but know almost nothing about each other, which makes this story more interesting and funny 🤗
Can't wait to read the next book... This is a must read series for lovers of UF with strong women, hot brooding love interest and a lot of snarky humor!!! 😍 ❤️
This is the first book of Stephanie I have read and I have to say she's stuck with me from now on 😁
This is a fantastic, action-packed, fast paced, unputdownable installment, with amazing MC, mysterious plot and great world building 💯 💕
V and Thane dinamic duo is explosive and hot, both are powerful in their own way but know almost nothing about each other, which makes this story more interesting and funny 🤗
Can't wait to read the next book... This is a must read series for lovers of UF with strong women, hot brooding love interest and a lot of snarky humor!!! 😍 ❤️
January 24, 2025
Reading Has Me Reaping The Rewards
"V" - a professional at acquisitions - has stolen my time, attention, and favor.
She's been accused of Larson and Homicide, but she's only guilty (this time) of lifting my imagination to new heights and k¡ll¡ng my afternoon. And providing the Thane of my existence. I'm looking forward to more chapters in this grifter's life... All of her lives.
"V" - a professional at acquisitions - has stolen my time, attention, and favor.
She's been accused of Larson and Homicide, but she's only guilty (this time) of lifting my imagination to new heights and k¡ll¡ng my afternoon. And providing the Thane of my existence. I'm looking forward to more chapters in this grifter's life... All of her lives.
October 22, 2020
I was lucky enough to be a beta reader for this book! It was fun and fast paced. The characters are incredibly likable ❤️I can’t wait to get the physical copy to add to my growing Stephanie Mirro collection.
If this is your first time reading one of her books you need to read her ALL of her other titles.
If this is your first time reading one of her books you need to read her ALL of her other titles.
January 9, 2021
I loved this story. I was hooked from the beginning and could not put it down. It drew me in from the first chapter and I had to keep reading to see how it would end. Why was V framed for murder and how did it fit in with what else was going on? Was there a massive scheme or plot underground? I loved all the characters and found myself laughing a lot. Just a great start to a new series that hooked me well. A well written story.
June 8, 2021
My review is based on the audiobook. This is a great start of series. I really enjoyed the world the author created. The story flowed nicely and kept my attention from start to finish. The narrator did a fantastic job of bringing the story and characters to life. I look forward to more in this series and by this author
November 19, 2021
Full of action, a touch of romance.
A new shifter/ paranormal series. A little different then most. With angel's, as guardians policing the super natural community. The last Phoenix V charged with murder, an angel ready to take her in to face justice and a Master Vampire out to add her to his collection.
Will keep you reading long past time to stop.
A new shifter/ paranormal series. A little different then most. With angel's, as guardians policing the super natural community. The last Phoenix V charged with murder, an angel ready to take her in to face justice and a Master Vampire out to add her to his collection.
Will keep you reading long past time to stop.
March 20, 2022
What a wonderfully delightful novel. This is the first I have read by this author, and I am very impressed. The story concept was unlike any I've encountered; the characters were realistically different; the plot twists were totally unexpected...kept me in questioning suspenseful anticipation till nearly the last page! A thriller indeed. I hope to read more by this author, I highly recommend her work,
October 21, 2020
This was such a fun and quick read. I liked the main character a lot. She's strong and funny, and there's good chemistry with the love interest (and witty banter). There were plenty of good questions and mysteries pulling me through the story, and I never felt it got boring. There are unanswered questions that made me eager for the next book. A really promising series starter!
January 9, 2021
WINGS OF FIRE is the 1st book of 7 in The Last Phoenix series, a kickass urban fantasy containing fast-paced action, snarky humor, sexy grim reapers, horrific vampires, a hearty dose of swearing, and a healthy splash of slow-burn romance.
This and so much more.
I loved the book you will too.
Great characters ,fast paced a very entertaining read cannot wait for book 2.
This and so much more.
I loved the book you will too.
Great characters ,fast paced a very entertaining read cannot wait for book 2.
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