Phoenix Rising (Wyss)

2025 Bronze Medalist for "BEST SERIES" in the Moonbeam Children's Book Awards2019 1st Place Winner of the Gertrude Warner Middle Grade Book AwardsShe didn't mean to burn down the gym, and she definitely didn't mean to start a war.Vivian Carmine was just trying to survive high school science class-not uncover her ties to a legendary phoenix bloodline. But when her fire powers erupt, and her parents vanish without warning, she's thrust into a hidden world of mythical creatures, ancient secrets, and a covert spy academy known as RISE.Enrolled at the elite school for magical misfits, Vivian trains in combat, fire containment, and spy craft-skills designed to help supernatural beings blend into the modern world. But, as she begins decoding her parents' past, she realizes someone else is on the hunt.With help from a sharp-tongued fairy and a mysterious demigod with secrets of his own, Vivian must uncover the truth about her powers, her family, and the war brewing between gods and men. The fate of both worlds may depend on her next move-and, this time, she can't afford to play with fire.______________________________________________________Flash of Fire is a fast-paced fantasy adventure perfect for fans of fast-paced action, strong female heroes, and everyday magic. This award-winning series starter is packed with mythology, found family, and one fierce girl determined to save the world-before it goes up in flames.Reading Level Information:Flesch Reading Ease: 88.4Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level: 3.7Themes include: Friendship, courage, loyalty, and discovering your hidden strengths. A.L. Wyss is an award-winning author and educator based in the Pacific Northwest. A graduate of the University of Washington with a B.A. in Creative Writing, she has built a versatile career in publishing and education. Amber has independently published several novels, collaborated with conference boards, worked as a literary agent intern, and spent over a decade teaching early readers. Her varied experiences have given her valuable insights into the publishing world, from writing and editing to connecting with authors, agents, and editors.Amber's writing spans contemporary fantasy, heartfelt romance, and technical content for one of the world's largest companies. In 2023, her Middle Grade trilogy launched with A Flash of Fire, which earned first place in the Gertrude Warner Award.Outside of writing, Amber enjoys leisurely walks, often in her favorite sparkly shoes, and tackling home projects that might-or might not-actually need fixing. She values creating stories that inspire and connect readers of all ages.

As the son of Hades and Persephone, Sam's life isn't just complicated-it's mythic. After a fiery showdown on a Pacific Northwest beach, Sam has had enough of gods, demons, and the constant guilt of letting down his friends. Fleeing the chaos, he seeks refuge in Echo Mesa, a quirky New Mexico commune he hopes can become a new home. Reuniting with his mother, Persephone, should have been everything Sam hoped for. Instead, he uncovers a family secret: a half-brother named Orion, whose charm hides a heart as dark as the desert nights. When a mysterious old man teaches Sam to channel his power through music, he learns of a prophecy tied to the Summer Solstice concert-a prophecy that places him center stage. As betrayal brews and the concert looms, Sam must find his voice-not just to sing, but to stand up for himself and what he loves. With danger lurking in the shadows and the primal rhythm of music in the air, Sam's journey will test his courage, forge unexpected bonds, and reveal the strength of his heart. Readers who love mythological adventure, complex family dynamics, and a touch of magic will love Summer's Son. Fans of stories like Percy Jackson, The Trials of Apollo, and The Raven Cycle will find themselves drawn to Sam's epic journey, filled with dark secrets, betrayal, and the power of music. Will Sam embrace his inner fire and fulfill his destiny, or will his melody fade into silence? A.L. Wyss is an award-winning author and educator based in the Pacific Northwest. A graduate of the University of Washington with a B.A. in Creative Writing, she has built a versatile career in publishing and education. Amber has independently published several novels, collaborated with conference boards, worked as a literary agent intern, and spent over a decade teaching early readers. Her varied experiences have given her valuable insights into the publishing world, from writing and editing to connecting with authors, agents, and editors.Amber's writing spans contemporary fantasy, heartfelt romance, and technical content for one of the world's largest companies. In 2023, her Middle Grade trilogy launched with A Flash of Fire, which earned first place in the Gertrude Warner Award.Outside of writing, Amber enjoys leisurely walks, often in her favorite sparkly shoes, and tackling home projects that might-or might not-actually need fixing. She values creating stories that inspire and connect readers of all ages.