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Phoenix
A man who understands animals better than people...
Since his grandparents died, wildlife rehabber Rhys Greeley became a hermit with only wild animals and his dog, Cocoa, for company. Juggling the care of dozens of injured and sick creatures in his barn, he's forged a simple, if lonely, life for himself. Everything changes when his former best friend returns to town with a Purple Heart and a horrific story.
A former hotshot pilot with broken wings...
James Jardine left Big Woods for the Air Force Academy so he could escape his late father's abuse. After a harrowing and widely-publicized experience in the Middle East, he's back, but he's not the same person he used to be. Hindered by chronic pain and PTSD, he can only see a bleak and solitary future for himself. But when he finds an injured hawk in his backyard, he crosses paths with his best friend from high school.
Two best friends open their hearts to love...
James starts helping Rhys with the animals, and the two friends rediscover the rapport they once had—as well as the fact that they're both gay. But when more hawks are found injured and a wildfire threatens the barn, James finds he has to overcome his fears to save the animals. Will Rhys be able to help him fly again?
Phoenix is a steamy gay romance novel with a HEA and no cliffhangers.
Since his grandparents died, wildlife rehabber Rhys Greeley became a hermit with only wild animals and his dog, Cocoa, for company. Juggling the care of dozens of injured and sick creatures in his barn, he's forged a simple, if lonely, life for himself. Everything changes when his former best friend returns to town with a Purple Heart and a horrific story.
A former hotshot pilot with broken wings...
James Jardine left Big Woods for the Air Force Academy so he could escape his late father's abuse. After a harrowing and widely-publicized experience in the Middle East, he's back, but he's not the same person he used to be. Hindered by chronic pain and PTSD, he can only see a bleak and solitary future for himself. But when he finds an injured hawk in his backyard, he crosses paths with his best friend from high school.
Two best friends open their hearts to love...
James starts helping Rhys with the animals, and the two friends rediscover the rapport they once had—as well as the fact that they're both gay. But when more hawks are found injured and a wildfire threatens the barn, James finds he has to overcome his fears to save the animals. Will Rhys be able to help him fly again?
Phoenix is a steamy gay romance novel with a HEA and no cliffhangers.
283 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 12, 2016
112 people are currently reading
91 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
February 8, 2022
2 stars
This was weak. The story and characters had potential but I didn't like the flow of the story and I especially didn't like the author's writing style. So yeah, I'm not impressed, but if you like this author you might be happy.
This was weak. The story and characters had potential but I didn't like the flow of the story and I especially didn't like the author's writing style. So yeah, I'm not impressed, but if you like this author you might be happy.
October 7, 2018
Endearing
It took a few chapters for me to get into the book but once the story started to progress I found it enjoyable. The aspect of a wildlife refuge is what drew me to the book and in that it did not fail. I think there could have been a little more depth to the characters and the dialogue. Maybe a little more emotion and feelings. The storyline itself was endearing and worth the read.
It took a few chapters for me to get into the book but once the story started to progress I found it enjoyable. The aspect of a wildlife refuge is what drew me to the book and in that it did not fail. I think there could have been a little more depth to the characters and the dialogue. Maybe a little more emotion and feelings. The storyline itself was endearing and worth the read.
September 26, 2016
~2.5~
This is a quiet, low steam story with a tentative HEA about two best friends reconnecting after a decade apart.
Rhys runs a wildlife rescue center on his grandparents' land. James is a veteran who received a Purple Heart following a harrowing ordeal.
James is depressed and rarely leaves the couch. He is a local hero but is uncomfortable with the attention. James starts to make peace with his life after he begins volunteering at Rhys' animal center.
I love the idea of the story, and the animals, especially Rhys's dog Cocoa, were wonderful. The focus on caring for the animals saved the story for me.
The relationship itself was stilted and awkward. The men never really talk. We never find out what happened to James. Granted, his PTSD isn't brushed aside, nor is it cured with magic dick, but I never felt like he trusted or confined in Rhys.
While the writing was fairly polished, there were way too many redundant internal monologues that made the story drag.
There is a side plot about someone shooting hawks that added a tiny bit of tension to an otherwise dull plot; it was resolved rather easily, but better that than unnecessary drama.
This is a quiet, low steam story with a tentative HEA about two best friends reconnecting after a decade apart.
Rhys runs a wildlife rescue center on his grandparents' land. James is a veteran who received a Purple Heart following a harrowing ordeal.
James is depressed and rarely leaves the couch. He is a local hero but is uncomfortable with the attention. James starts to make peace with his life after he begins volunteering at Rhys' animal center.
I love the idea of the story, and the animals, especially Rhys's dog Cocoa, were wonderful. The focus on caring for the animals saved the story for me.
The relationship itself was stilted and awkward. The men never really talk. We never find out what happened to James. Granted, his PTSD isn't brushed aside, nor is it cured with magic dick, but I never felt like he trusted or confined in Rhys.
While the writing was fairly polished, there were way too many redundant internal monologues that made the story drag.
There is a side plot about someone shooting hawks that added a tiny bit of tension to an otherwise dull plot; it was resolved rather easily, but better that than unnecessary drama.
friends-say-no
June 6, 2017I'm going to pass because of lukewarm friend reviews.
December 3, 2021
This is the second time I read this novel. I liked it better this time. These are two childhood friends who reunited later in life. Jean, a pilot, was shot down and suffered when she was captured. I thought author described her PTSD compassionately. I could feel the one step forward, two steps back progress Jean made. Reese stayed home and became a wildlife rehabber. That made her the perfect person to help Jean recover. The animals taught her all about patience and acceptance. It ended up being a sweet romance between the two.
October 7, 2016
Sugar. Pure sugar. Those words basically sum up my feelings on this story. It was so unbelievably sweet and adorable. I enjoyed seeing how James struggled to adapt to being independent and relying on his mom, who stood by and did nothing when his dad abused him. I like how he wasn't miraculously cured of his PTSD once he started a relationship with Rhys. It was more realistic to see them struggle as a couple where one is a natural nurturer and the other doesn't want to be mothered. The animals were so cute. I know I couldn't actually see them but I got a good visual of the environment. I'm glad the hunter turned out to be a pretty good kid who needed guidance and someone who cared. I smiled throughout this story. I might develop cavities. If you want a sweet, complete story with tons of cute animals, check this book out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 21, 2016
¸.•*´¨)
(¸.•´ ★Like a Phoenix rising out of the ashes...and then dosed.
This story was not what I was expecting, whatever that was. Total slow burn with a lot of words. I needed more and when I did get it, it still was lukewarm. I have placed this on the "to read again" pile for later on to see if my opinions change.
Basic synopsis was two friends separated when one left. Rhys stayed as it seemed to be a family thing rescuing animals. James left and embraced his passion as an Army pilot. Being captured and tortured before his rescue destroyed him. James was "still working through his trauma", but I barely saw that. I think I would have liked more focus on the PTSD, its triggers and even a bit of flashback to spice up the story. I liked Rhys's passion toward the animals and his gentle nature toward James. I have read Ms. Wilde's books so I know what she can dish out. Please do not think I am bashing this book. For ME it was okay.
ARC received from the Author for an honest and unbiased review.
(¸.•´ ★Like a Phoenix rising out of the ashes...and then dosed.
This story was not what I was expecting, whatever that was. Total slow burn with a lot of words. I needed more and when I did get it, it still was lukewarm. I have placed this on the "to read again" pile for later on to see if my opinions change.
Basic synopsis was two friends separated when one left. Rhys stayed as it seemed to be a family thing rescuing animals. James left and embraced his passion as an Army pilot. Being captured and tortured before his rescue destroyed him. James was "still working through his trauma", but I barely saw that. I think I would have liked more focus on the PTSD, its triggers and even a bit of flashback to spice up the story. I liked Rhys's passion toward the animals and his gentle nature toward James. I have read Ms. Wilde's books so I know what she can dish out. Please do not think I am bashing this book. For ME it was okay.
ARC received from the Author for an honest and unbiased review.
September 20, 2016
I got an ARC in exchange for an honest and unbiased review
Rhys has dedicated his whole life to save and protect wild animals. He always felt more at ease with them, than with the people from his hometown. But the unexpected return of his former best friend changes everything.
James never though that he would return to his old home. His horrible memories from his Middle East tour left him hopeless from having a future, a career or even a normal life.
It's sweet how Rhys was able to help James to find himself, his confidence and a new purpose for his life.
Don't miss this sweet book
Rhys has dedicated his whole life to save and protect wild animals. He always felt more at ease with them, than with the people from his hometown. But the unexpected return of his former best friend changes everything.
James never though that he would return to his old home. His horrible memories from his Middle East tour left him hopeless from having a future, a career or even a normal life.
It's sweet how Rhys was able to help James to find himself, his confidence and a new purpose for his life.
Don't miss this sweet book
October 9, 2016
dull, seriously boring
October 20, 2018
It's quite a laid-back novel.
I think the imagery that stuck out most though was the mention of fluffy bunnies xD
It's not the typical romance novel wherein there are misunderstandings, miscommunications. But there is use of the trope of "outburst" where one character feels irate due to baggage.
Overall, however, it was a pleasant enough read.
I think it worked for me because I could believe their feelings towards each other could carry over that long but it wasn't as powerful for me because the 'pacing' of the relationship seemed... erratic?
I think it was because there was a little confusion as to what the novel was supposed to be about. Whether it was one of the subplots that ratcheted up but came to a very swift conclusion or the lack of development of Reese? (While I liked her character she didn't seem to really... grow for me.)
It made me wonder whether the novel would be stronger had it been written through Jean's eyes solely. Perhaps her struggle would have hit me harder and the love declarations much more powerful.
I think Firebird reminds me a little of Blessed Twice by Lynn Galli in terms of the type of duo explored.
In the end, I did enjoy reading there wasn't anything offensive to me, just a little bit missing here and there but otherwise it was enjoyable while it lasted.
I think the imagery that stuck out most though was the mention of fluffy bunnies xD
It's not the typical romance novel wherein there are misunderstandings, miscommunications. But there is use of the trope of "outburst" where one character feels irate due to baggage.
Overall, however, it was a pleasant enough read.
I think it worked for me because I could believe their feelings towards each other could carry over that long but it wasn't as powerful for me because the 'pacing' of the relationship seemed... erratic?
I think it was because there was a little confusion as to what the novel was supposed to be about. Whether it was one of the subplots that ratcheted up but came to a very swift conclusion or the lack of development of Reese? (While I liked her character she didn't seem to really... grow for me.)
It made me wonder whether the novel would be stronger had it been written through Jean's eyes solely. Perhaps her struggle would have hit me harder and the love declarations much more powerful.
I think Firebird reminds me a little of Blessed Twice by Lynn Galli in terms of the type of duo explored.
In the end, I did enjoy reading there wasn't anything offensive to me, just a little bit missing here and there but otherwise it was enjoyable while it lasted.
October 10, 2018
Stilted Dialogue - Barely Fleshed Out Characters ... Not Recommended.
I wish this had been a better told story. I loved the basis, the wildlife rehab aspect, but the story was difficult to get into.
I found the main characters to be rather wooden, and barely defined. They felt ... bland and unremarkable, leaden. There is no emotional resonance between them.
The dialogue was especially stilted and stiff ... it felt very forced and unrealistic.
The sex scenes were cold, and I sensed no romance between the two lead characters. ( Not to mention, the specifics regarding the first sex scene, who is wearing/not wearing what, truly needed an editor ... we have bras that appear out of no where, shirts that are off and then taken off again ...)
Two stars for the wildlife rehab angle and the interesting information regarding the animals, but I cannot recommend this book.
FYI, as noted : "This book was previously published as a Gay Romance novel titled "Phoenix" by Rory Wilde - It was reworked and reprinted with full permission." ... I must say, this book does read as something that had a "change all" command executed, perhaps explaining why these female characters feel so generic.
I wish this had been a better told story. I loved the basis, the wildlife rehab aspect, but the story was difficult to get into.
I found the main characters to be rather wooden, and barely defined. They felt ... bland and unremarkable, leaden. There is no emotional resonance between them.
The dialogue was especially stilted and stiff ... it felt very forced and unrealistic.
The sex scenes were cold, and I sensed no romance between the two lead characters. ( Not to mention, the specifics regarding the first sex scene, who is wearing/not wearing what, truly needed an editor ... we have bras that appear out of no where, shirts that are off and then taken off again ...)
Two stars for the wildlife rehab angle and the interesting information regarding the animals, but I cannot recommend this book.
FYI, as noted : "This book was previously published as a Gay Romance novel titled "Phoenix" by Rory Wilde - It was reworked and reprinted with full permission." ... I must say, this book does read as something that had a "change all" command executed, perhaps explaining why these female characters feel so generic.
May 19, 2019
Adorable, heartfelt & hopeful
“She didn’t want to be responsible for her mother’s emotions when she could barely be responsible for herself.”
“It had been nice to feel something again, and Jean wanted to be around Reese, if only because it made her feel. It reminded her that there was a reality beyond the clouded glass she lived behind.”
“You never really got over someone you had a crush on, did you? They lived under your skin, dormant, and when you saw them again, the old feelings returned in some form.”
+ • + • + • +
OMG!!!! What a book!!! Absolutely restores faith & hope in true love!! It made me smile, made me cry, made my heart ache & made me optimistic riding the emotional rollercoaster from the first word to the last about finding & forging the redemption & resilience, security, strength, promise & power of real love!!!
Outstanding excellence in putting into words the unexplainable & the unfathomable to explain & express those who haven't been exposed to &/or experienced it themselves.
“She didn’t want to be responsible for her mother’s emotions when she could barely be responsible for herself.”
“It had been nice to feel something again, and Jean wanted to be around Reese, if only because it made her feel. It reminded her that there was a reality beyond the clouded glass she lived behind.”
“You never really got over someone you had a crush on, did you? They lived under your skin, dormant, and when you saw them again, the old feelings returned in some form.”
+ • + • + • +
OMG!!!! What a book!!! Absolutely restores faith & hope in true love!! It made me smile, made me cry, made my heart ache & made me optimistic riding the emotional rollercoaster from the first word to the last about finding & forging the redemption & resilience, security, strength, promise & power of real love!!!
Outstanding excellence in putting into words the unexplainable & the unfathomable to explain & express those who haven't been exposed to &/or experienced it themselves.
September 18, 2018
Heartwarming story, but...
With prominent themes of healing, reconnecting with old friends, and wildlife conservation, this story is mostly well done. The leading ladies are well developed and the technique of switching the narrative between the two helps give a more complete picture of both characters. However, there are occasional incidents of sloppy execution, possibly attributable to the narrative style, that hold it back. (For instance, a scene where the perspective character is surprised to find the other not wearing a bra after they've both removed their shirts, then when they go up to the bedroom and the perspective character changes, it says she takes off her shirt and bra...) Some extra attention to detail and some careful editing would likely push this story over the top.
I received an ARC of this book.
With prominent themes of healing, reconnecting with old friends, and wildlife conservation, this story is mostly well done. The leading ladies are well developed and the technique of switching the narrative between the two helps give a more complete picture of both characters. However, there are occasional incidents of sloppy execution, possibly attributable to the narrative style, that hold it back. (For instance, a scene where the perspective character is surprised to find the other not wearing a bra after they've both removed their shirts, then when they go up to the bedroom and the perspective character changes, it says she takes off her shirt and bra...) Some extra attention to detail and some careful editing would likely push this story over the top.
I received an ARC of this book.
September 21, 2018
**I was given this book as an ARC for an honest review**
I never could get completely invested in the characters of this book. The idea was wonderful and overall it was a decent book. Nature is truly healing in and of itself so I really appreciated it being used to help heal the personal wounds within the characters themselves. And it is always heart wrenching when dealing with PTSD of someone home from the service. I feel the "healing" was a bit rushed but a book can only do so much in regards to something so tragic. Again, overall pretty decent read.
I never could get completely invested in the characters of this book. The idea was wonderful and overall it was a decent book. Nature is truly healing in and of itself so I really appreciated it being used to help heal the personal wounds within the characters themselves. And it is always heart wrenching when dealing with PTSD of someone home from the service. I feel the "healing" was a bit rushed but a book can only do so much in regards to something so tragic. Again, overall pretty decent read.
April 18, 2019
Modern pulp romance
With better sex parts. Although, I am a bit weary of reading that one is more hesitant or doesn't know what to do, and because the lesbian said she was, but then wasn't comfortable with it, that got confusing, and... An interesting step into animal rehabilitation in a small rural community. If you like reading cozies with delightfully descriptive sexual encounters, where there is no villain and everything turns out all perfectly well, this would be a good read for a fidelity evening or for an afternoon on the beach.
With better sex parts. Although, I am a bit weary of reading that one is more hesitant or doesn't know what to do, and because the lesbian said she was, but then wasn't comfortable with it, that got confusing, and... An interesting step into animal rehabilitation in a small rural community. If you like reading cozies with delightfully descriptive sexual encounters, where there is no villain and everything turns out all perfectly well, this would be a good read for a fidelity evening or for an afternoon on the beach.
August 16, 2025
I feel the characters were sweet if a bit generic. Jean's trauma is vague which in it self is okay left vague or inferred but, I felt the trauma was dealt on a surface level and It would be nice to see the process of Jean learning to manage her PTSD. It felt like Jean magicked her PTSD away or most of her recovery was off page. Reese was perfect without much fault so it felt like she was the fairytale prince(ess) charming, there wasn’t much of a character arc for her. It’s not a bad thing but it did make her generically likable and boring.
November 28, 2016
The book was really pretty fluffy considering the physical and emotional injuries one of the protagonists, James, had. It was rather vague about the physical injuries. But I enjoyed the interactions, and how the protagonists talked things out in an adult way. Well, Rhys did, and then James learned to. Also I liked the scenes of wildlife rehabilitation. It almost made me want my own baby skunk, but knowing we have an adult skunk living in the backyard is really more than enough.
September 26, 2018
P.T.S.D. A chance for someone to help restore their faith in people.
Jean was a Air Force pilot shot down and mistreated by the enemy. She at first struggles until meeting Reece again who is now an wildlife rehabber. Together the two work,fight and love each other. The injuring and unfortunate killing of hawks brings them all together along with the killer and some fellow classmates. Enjoy! Would love to read more.
Jean was a Air Force pilot shot down and mistreated by the enemy. She at first struggles until meeting Reece again who is now an wildlife rehabber. Together the two work,fight and love each other. The injuring and unfortunate killing of hawks brings them all together along with the killer and some fellow classmates. Enjoy! Would love to read more.
October 21, 2021
This book taught me of the small repetitive tasks that animal caregivers do. the love story between two previous friends who have both chosen very different paths.
They both reach other and try to live and be better. The challenges of PSTD and family baggage, perceptions of the town people.
Their journey was together, the bumps, the try's taken by each to accommodate each other was beautiful.
They both reach other and try to live and be better. The challenges of PSTD and family baggage, perceptions of the town people.
Their journey was together, the bumps, the try's taken by each to accommodate each other was beautiful.
August 18, 2023
Good read
This was a good read imo, but as another person said, there were some inconsistencies, and it could have used an editor to catch them. The sex scenes were so-so, and I could see some of the detachment from it, but otherwise, it was a good read. I've been pretty frustrated with books I've downloaded where it's just straight-up dialogue with zero description of settings, so this was a breath of fresh air for me.
This was a good read imo, but as another person said, there were some inconsistencies, and it could have used an editor to catch them. The sex scenes were so-so, and I could see some of the detachment from it, but otherwise, it was a good read. I've been pretty frustrated with books I've downloaded where it's just straight-up dialogue with zero description of settings, so this was a breath of fresh air for me.
September 28, 2025
I liked that the story line featured wildlife rehabilitation and friends reconnecting, but I didn't enjoy reading about Jean's ongoing depression. Also, since Jean was so skittish, it seemed unrealistic that she'd be open to intimacy so soon. One glaring error was that Reese "surprisingly" had no bra on when they were on the porch but when they went up to the bedroom, she magically had to remove her bra.
September 14, 2018
Lesbians helping animals---nothing better
A wonderful romance with animals that melt your heart. I'm on my second read life this book since I got it yesterday. It is just such a great story--lesbians helping animals....nothing better than that! Read this book. You will be glad you did!!!
A wonderful romance with animals that melt your heart. I'm on my second read life this book since I got it yesterday. It is just such a great story--lesbians helping animals....nothing better than that! Read this book. You will be glad you did!!!
September 25, 2018
I rec'd an ARC through the Sweet & Spicy Program for review.
This a romance with some angst. Leads are Jean (a former pilot) and Reese (wildlife expert). Ms. Swan cleverly interweaves the wildlife scenarios with romance and handles the topic of PTSD with a sensitive touch. For me, the book could've been longer. I look forward to more of the author's work.
4 stars.
This a romance with some angst. Leads are Jean (a former pilot) and Reese (wildlife expert). Ms. Swan cleverly interweaves the wildlife scenarios with romance and handles the topic of PTSD with a sensitive touch. For me, the book could've been longer. I look forward to more of the author's work.
4 stars.
October 4, 2018
Refreshing
I really enjoyed this book and how Reese was able to not only heal and rehabilitate the wildlife, but her human friends as well. The rehab clinic was important for not only the animals but for a troubled teen and for her best friend. I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants a heartwarming story.
I really enjoyed this book and how Reese was able to not only heal and rehabilitate the wildlife, but her human friends as well. The rehab clinic was important for not only the animals but for a troubled teen and for her best friend. I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants a heartwarming story.
October 19, 2018
Lovely story
It was good to read a story about veterans that showed how easy it is to trigger a negative emotional response but also gave the reader an explanation of why. Learning to trust yourself and others is not an easy task but this story was gentle and informative, not everyone can recover from such experiences.
It was good to read a story about veterans that showed how easy it is to trigger a negative emotional response but also gave the reader an explanation of why. Learning to trust yourself and others is not an easy task but this story was gentle and informative, not everyone can recover from such experiences.
September 16, 2018
Great
I really enjoyed this book. I love stories with animals and this is a good one. I enjoyed getting to know the characters and I think that is a sign of a good book.I enjoyed watching the relationship of all the characters. A warm rich story would highly recommend.
S
I really enjoyed this book. I love stories with animals and this is a good one. I enjoyed getting to know the characters and I think that is a sign of a good book.I enjoyed watching the relationship of all the characters. A warm rich story would highly recommend.
S
September 25, 2018
Great story line
I loved that you addressed the PTSD problem with such clarity and combing it with a love story. The plot kept me interested on two fronts. The issue with returning veterans and the difficulties faced by both women to reach a warm and trusting relationship.
I loved that you addressed the PTSD problem with such clarity and combing it with a love story. The plot kept me interested on two fronts. The issue with returning veterans and the difficulties faced by both women to reach a warm and trusting relationship.
October 14, 2018
Good plot, needs more charecter development
It was an easy read. It could have done with more showing than telling, that would have rounded out the characters and the story more. I liked it though.
It was an easy read. It could have done with more showing than telling, that would have rounded out the characters and the story more. I liked it though.
October 16, 2018
Sweet love story and personal growth
Sweet love story.
Personal growth and overcoming struggles. Interesting characters and storylines. Maybe there will get the next story of these women.
Sweet love story.
Personal growth and overcoming struggles. Interesting characters and storylines. Maybe there will get the next story of these women.
December 15, 2018
Touching sweet romance.
Savannah creates a beautiful setting and populates it with wonderful 3 dimentional people facing tough situations. I loved it. She did a great job of describing wild animal rehab.
Savannah creates a beautiful setting and populates it with wonderful 3 dimentional people facing tough situations. I loved it. She did a great job of describing wild animal rehab.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews