Book excerpt: ALL MAGIC IS EVIL. Maya has known magic is evil her whole life. Raised happily in a remote village at the steps of the sprawling Forent Mountain Range, she hasn't had to think too much about it either way. She and her grandmother survive the harsh Voldarian winters by their wits and hard work, and they were doing quite well for themselves. When Maya's best friend is taken from her, the illusion of safety is shattered. Forced to adapt to life on the run, she soon discovers she is a powerful creature with ancient magic in her bones. Still, will it be enough to save her from the military forces bearing down on them and the strange magic running wild inside her own body? Will she ever see her friend alive again? A Phoenix Rises will appeal to fans of Sorcery of Thorns, by Margaret Rogerson and Ash Princess by Laura Sebastian.