Phoenix Blood

Old School #1

by Jenny Schwartz

In a grim biker bar with wizard mercenaries on her tail and a “found” amulet around her neck, Sadie Howard needs a miracle. What she gets is the man who broke her heart nine years ago.

Marcus Aurelius is a changed man, in more ways than one. The preppy, confident medical school student is now a hard-bitten, magic-wielding assassin. He’s also a man on a mission. He has debts to pay and old wrongs to right before he dies—sometime this week.

As the secrets of Marcus’s heart are revealed, Sadie learns that nothing is as it seems and that the man who broke her heart also saved her life and paid in agony for her freedom.

With wizards trying to kill her, phoenix blood burning in Marcus’s veins, and a villain who’ll stop at nothing to acquire the amulet Sadie has promised to a friend, their roadtrip is a one-way ticket to extraordinary adventures. The question is, who will survive?

***

Phoenix Blood is the first novel in the new paranormal romance thriller series, Old School. Each novel is a standalone read. Watch out for Fantastical Island in February 2017.

Genres: Urban Fantasy, Romance, Paranormal, Fantasy, Magic, Fiction, Paranormal Romance

189 pages, ebook

First published December 27, 2016

About the author

Australian science fiction and fantasy author.

Avid reader.

Jenny Schwartz has a degree in sociology and history, and a lifelong fascination with understanding people. Her character-driven science fiction and fantasy novels explore other worlds and how people navigate strange situations and complicated emotions, while retaining their sense of self. Her plots are twisty and unexpected.

***
I've curated my bookshelf to share books which I hope readers of Caldryn Parliament will enjoy. With the older books, please be aware that they are a product of their times and read with care.

Reviews

[Marta Cox · Rating 4 out of 5]

So a new author to me and the first in a series loosely connected with pupils from a prestigious and somewhat unusual school. Sadie is the first to get her book and it’s been several years since her heart was broken by Marcus, the first man she shared her magical gift with. Sadie has retrieved a magical artefact but realised that she is now being hunted so uses her ‘finder’ gift to locate safety and what do you know it leads her straight into the arms of Marcus! Things are not the same though and the young idealistic man Sadie loved is now tougher, much more dangerous and hiding a secret of his own.
This was a really interesting piece of urban fantasy that held numerous surprises. I loved that Marcus whilst by his own admittance was a killer still had morals and ideals and such determination to write the wrongs done by his grandfather. Sadie never realised just how much Marcus put up with to keep her safe and the author cunningly highlights the difference by adding family and their choices to the story. The plot whilst initially all about what Sadie is transporting rapidly grew into so much more as Marcus revealed his secrets and just why he believed in karma .
This had two likeable characters with interesting supporting characters added to up the stakes. I always enjoy something a little different so this fit the bill but felt slightly as if I’d missed something as the school that Sadie attended and her former classmates just seemed to muddy things slightly. Perhaps a brief prologue would have helped this reader understand better the connection they shared but nevertheless I did find this a very entertaining read.

[Kate McMurry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Entertaining paranormal-romance, urban-fantasy novel

I am not offering my own description of the premise of this novel because the blurb provided here on GR is very well done.

I have read many different SF romance novels by this author, which I enjoyed very much. This is my first venture into UF romance by her, and according to my own picky, personal preferences, it is extremely well done. My main requirements for a romance novel, whether it is contemporary, historical, fantasy or SF, is that the FMC and MMC are people I can admire and respect; they treat each other as co-equal partners in their adventures, and they are on stage together at least 50% of the time. JS does a great job with all of these. Most especially, she exceeds my expectations with the time they spend together. They are on stage together about 97% of the book. I loved that!

I don't typically enjoy a reunion romance unless there is a compelling external cause for the breakup, otherwise I can't suspend disbelief that the MCs are soulmates. Fortunately, there absolutely is an acceptable external reason that their previous relationship ended, and I was completely convinced that these two are made for each other. Their romantic reunion is heart-rending and tenderly sensual. I was heartily cheering for them and rejoiced in their HEA.

There is an intriguing take on shape-shifting in this book, and the magical talents of both the FMC and MMC are fascinating. I also really liked Karma, the magical bird in the story.

In addition, the world building is very well done; the villains are suitably scary, and the action is riveting.

I have I already started the second book in this series of interlinked, standalone paranormal romances. I have purchased all of them and am eagerly anticipating reading them.

[Ana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Burning Love.....

Loved this book, so many emotions anger, hate, hope, trust, passion, love all rolled up and dealt with.

Sadie is running for her life from magical mercenaries and runs right into a blast from her past. One she never wanted , or thought to see again after the hurt he put on her 9 years ago. Her magic tells her he's her safe haven though and it has never steered her wrong during her pickings. She has Finder talents, a very rare magical talent for finding magical things be they artifacts, or people. She never imagined her talents would make her find her long lost lover Marcus.

Marcus Aurelius made the toughest decision, but the right one when he pushed the love of his life Sadie away from him to protect her 9 years ago. He's a different man now, not the medical student she knew then. His grandfather made sure of that when he forced his hand all those years ago and thought to turn him into a puppet. Instead he turned into something much greater, but not until he meets up with Sadie again will he realize that he DOES have a life to live, regardless of what he thinks.

His beautiful Bird of Paradise makes sure that Marcus is able to put his past into perspective and have a chance at love again. It's up to Sadie to see the truth that is Marcus and forget all the lonely nights she lived with for 9 years.

[CeCe · Rating 3 out of 5]

I loved the premise, but the execution was weak. There was a lack of flow in some parts of the writing. The story never gave the "feels" like I wanted it to. Something was missing. It did not hit the mark for me.

The heroine and hero had a relationship 9 years ago until the hero suddenly broke up with the heroine. The hero never gave a reason, just publicly broke up with the heroine. Nine years later, the heroine is running from men who are trying to kill her and steal the amulet that she is trying to deliver to her friend. The heroine runs into the hero at a bar. She knows through her magic that the hero is the one that can protect her. The hero saves the heroine and they escape together. Through this experience, the heroine discovers the reasons the hero left her the way he did.

I am not sure if I will read anything more by this author. Like I mentioned, she had a great premise, but it was a mediocre read.

My opinion, you may love it.

[Blake · Rating 3 out of 5]

(FYI I tend to only review one book per series, unless I want to change my scoring by 0.50 or more of a star. -- I tend not to read reviews until after I read a book, so I go in with an open mind.)

3.25*






First time read the author's work?: No

Will you be reading more?: Yes

Would you recommend?: Yes


------------
How I rate Stars: 5* = I loved (must read all I can find by the author)
4* = I really enjoyed (got to read all the series and try other books by the author).
3* = I enjoyed (I will continue to read the series)
or
3* = Good book just not my thing (I realised I don't like the genre or picked up a kids book to review in error.)

All of the above scores means I would recommend them!
-
2* = it was okay (I might give the next book in the series a try, to see if that was better IMHO.)
1* = Disliked

Note: adding these basic 'reviews' after finding out that some people see the stars differently than I do - hoping this clarifies how I feel about the book. :-)

[Dr susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent paranormal romantic adventure

The magic system is well imagined and fascinating. Sadie and her school friends are intriguing, and Marcus is the perfect tortured hero. The story is a thrilling, fast read.

[Regan]

I'm on a sweet paranormal novella/short novel roll! A high stakes, bittersweet reunion between old flames reignited.

[Debrac2014 · Rating 2 out of 5]

I usually enjoy Jenny's books but this one just didn't draw me in!

[Lelouch · Rating 3 out of 5]

Largely uneventful. Action was sparse and lacked suspense. Hard to describe, but reading the first few chapters didn't really get me into the story. Feels like all the plot points were there, but the story didn't flow well, if that makes sense. It wasn't bad, but it didn't hold my attention either.

[Laura Hannaway · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved it! Though the characters are very different the tone reminded me of Rachel Caine's Weather Warden series (which is definitely a complement!). The characters were interesting and likeable and the plot was engaging. Highly recommended!!

[Helen · Rating 2 out of 5]

Cheesy romance dialog.

When the author writes the story without the romance, it's a really good tale. But then comes the cheesy dialog and a solid book sinks down several levels to romance drivel.

[Janet Mccraw · Rating 4 out of 5]

Recommended

This book was recommended from another book that was a waist of my time but this book was good and it made the waisted time worth it to discover this series

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 - 4 Stars

Phoenix Blood is the first book in the ‘Old School’ Series by Jenny Schwartz. It is a delightful blend of paranormal intrigue, action, and feelgood moments. Ms. Schwartz crafts a world where magic, myth, and modern life collide in unexpected ways - from haunted islands to desert devils, each installment offers a fresh, imaginative adventure.
One of the series’ strengths is its cast. The characters - often strong, witty, and deeply human despite their supernatural abilities – felt like people I want to share a coffee (or a magical battle) with. The relationships, both romantic and platonic, are layered and believable, adding emotional depth to the fast-paced plots.
Ms. Schwartz’s writing style is vivid, all cleverly seasoned with humor, palpable tension, and heartfelt emotion. She has a knack for weaving folklore into her contemporary settings without making it feel forced, and her villains turned out to be as compelling as her heroes.
While each book can stand alone, reading them in sequential order rewards you with a richer understanding of the overarching world and recurring characters.
If you enjoy urban fantasy with a touch of mystery, a dash of romance, and a strong sense of place, then this is the series for you!
Happy Reading…

[Dannielle Line · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hard-bitten is an understatement – Marcus is one angry character, but the reader soon learns why he exudes so much ‘fire’. In contrast, Sadie is a gentle soul who’s trying to live life as best she can after Marcus destroyed their love. He’s the last person Sadie expected to play her ‘knight in shining armour’, but Sadie’s about to learn she’s stronger than she thought and more powerful than she believed. And Marcus is about to learn the hard way what it means to sacrifice for love.

The hot anger Marcus has just boils from the pages of this story in contrast to the coolness Sadie has built around her shattered heart. Of course, this makes for a steamy read in more ways than one. ;) There’s a quiet lesson here about believing in one’s self and as in any good romance story, what the power of love can truly accomplish. Phoenix Blood is subtle in what it hints of things to come, but I have a good feeling about where this series will progress. :)

[Betsy Horvath · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nine years ago, Sadie had her heart crushed by the man she loved. She never expected that when Marcus threw her away so harshly, he was trying to protect her from his grandfather, or that the old man's evil controlled every part of his grandson's life. Now, his grandfather is dead and Marcus is at the point of death himself. This is not a good time for Sadie to find him again, to be desperate for the help and safety he can provide, and to wake him up to the possibilities of life - and love.

I thoroughly enjoyed the first book in Jenny Schwartz's new series, and can't wait to see what happens next! Sadie is brave and resourceful. Marcus is a man with a hidden past who is intent on doing the right thing at the cost of his own life. Add in a second chance at love, action and plot twists to spare, and two people who deserve a happy ever after, and this is my kind of book!

[Emilye · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fly Like An Eagle

OldSchool1;3.5 ⭐️

There were so many ideas here!

Magic, and gladiators, wizards and werewolves, wealth, power, and cruelty. And a network of women called “Old School”, as an offset to the “Old Boy Network”. And a man addicted to raw phoenix blood.

It was a lot to take in, and it didn’t really gel, for me. This author has other series that I found much more enjoyable - the flying house trilogy, the alien wormhole series, and the post-wormhole trilogy to name a few.

I will try Fantastical Island, the next book, to see if it shapes up better, because I do enjoy this author.

[Cfabrication · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really like Jenny Schwartz's books, especially the space romance ones. The Australianisms are less grating in those ("bub" for baby was one I noticed), as it’s fantasy.

This one is sort of pedestrian. Girl's car/truck/van is breaking down, she runs into biker bar (I think we are in the South or Midwest USA), encounters her lost love (no American would be named Marcus Aurelius, especially in Boston political family), travel and sex ensue. That fees like a million romances I have read.

Some of the Schwartz magic between characters is there (especially the bird), but it wasn’t on the same level as others I’ve read by her.

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is one of Jenny's earliest fantasy series and it leans much heavier on the romance and includes spicy scenes. It’s fast paced and I enjoyed it, but it’s not one of my favorites of hers. I do always like the main characters in her stories - kind, brave and dedicated to doing what’s right.

Sadie is a finder, but just now she’s being hunted by wizard mercenaries for the amulet she found. Just in time she runs into her old flame, Marcus, now a badass fighter, who vows to protect her.

As they go on the run she learns that he’s dying from Phoenix blood addiction and that many things they both thought they knew were wrong.

[Layla · Rating 4 out of 5]

Needs proofreader but surprisingly good othwro

The writing was surprisingly good in this book. I just wish the author had the pride in her craft, and the respect foe her readers, to hire a competent proofreader. The characterization of Sadie was shallow compared to that of Marcus, but I will be reading the next solely on the strength of this one, and that’s a four star review.

[Hope Erica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Urban fantasy romance

This first book in the Old School series reunites old lovers who separated badly. Surprisingly upbeat despite dark subject matter. I wanted more of the barely glimpsed friends from the heroine’s most unusual boarding school experience, but later books in the series promise to deliver that.

[Amy Bee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not Bad

I like this author, and the series is intriguing. However, this book really needed another 50-100 pages to round it out. The action scenes were a bit anticlimactic, and we needed a little more time to develop the backstory and set up the series. Also, the FMC leaped back into love way too quickly.

[Seth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good read

Very good story. Even though this is not my normal genre, the main characters were well done, and enjoyable. If the main characters were to have follow on stories, I would be happy to read them.

[Terri Stoel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Satisfying read. Nice intro to series

Talented storyteller, with plenty of twists and turns. Intro to world was seamless and descriptive. Like these stories are complete of themselves but also lead into each other..

[Cedar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mystical creatures and a picker with a magical finders talent.

This book introduced me to mystical creatures. The story about a picker with a magical finders talent was well written and entertaining. Good reading for a relaxing evening at home.

[Mskychick · Rating 3 out of 5]

3-1/2 stars.
I checked this book out because the blurb said fans of Ilona Andrews would like it. The writing did not feel like Ilona Andrews, but I did enjoy it enough to immediately move on to reading book 2

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Better than expected

I strictly read for enjoyment so was unsure how much I would like this type of book. Turns out JS in her usual fashion has turned out a simple but quite enjoyable story. Am looking forward to the next book.

[Xerxia · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5. There was potential here, the world building and set up intriguing, but the execution was pedestrian. Part of the problem was voice, these are American characters that speak in Australian (or maybe British?) terms. But mostly it was just dull.

[T. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Phoenix Blood, book one of the Old School series, is an ebook I borrowed through Kindle Unlimited (KU). Good story, but the title takes the surprises away. One of my favorite writers, but I prefer her sci-fi.

[Christine Hayes · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good story, highly recommend.

[Monique · Rating 4 out of 5]

An enjoyable read

I was happy to discover this book, it was a good read. Interesting storyline with cool characters. It has plenty of potential.