Content levels
Hero archetypes
Heroine archetypes
Protagonist archetypes
Tropes
Themes
Synopsis
In this dark and atmospheric rendition of the Cinderella fairy tale, an intelligent young Englishwoman is made into a virtual slave by her evil stepmother. Her only hope of rescue comes in the shape of a scarred World War I pilot of noble blood, whose own powers over the elements are about to be needed more than ever.
Is Phoenix and Ashes appropriate for my child?
Suitable for most readers 14 and up.
This WWI-era fantasy retelling of Cinderella contains moderate wartime violence, themes of enslavement and abuse by a stepmother, and mild romantic content. The atmosphere is dark but ultimately hopeful.
What to know going in
This book has moderate violence, mild sexual content, and mild language. Content notes include slavery, abuse, and captivity (see the full list above).
Publisher ages reflect reading level; our rating reflects content maturity — they can differ.
Who'll love this
Teens who love fairy tale retellings with elemental magic and a strong heroine fighting for her freedom will be captivated.