The Phoenix Elite
Sacred Blood
Moved along by constant action scenes and ever-present mysteries, The Phoenix Elite: Sacred Blood is a thrilling novel in which a dark genetic engineering plot is set into motion.
The first book in a series, C. T. Clark’s science fiction novel The Phoenix Elite: Sacred Blood features a team of cloned historical figures assembled to save the world from annihilation.
The intricate plot revolves around the potentials and pitfalls of genetic engineering. Twenty-one years prior to its events, Dr. Bricker, a geneticist, went rogue and stole research from the UN’s cloning project; he went on to build a dangerous organization bent on unleashing a nuclear holocaust on the world, hoping to replace the dead with genetically engineered superhumans. Now, seven individuals from around the world who share an uncanny, phoenix-evocative imprint on their hands are summoned.
Tension is secured in the first chapter, as Dr. Bricker surveys his surroundings and anticipates the perfect moment to strike. Suspense is sustained as he tries to escape and meets with unforeseen obstacles. Gifted scientists around the world begin to disappear in coordinated kidnappings—Bricker’s sinister plot is in motion. There are constant action scenes and ever-present mysteries, and the plot moves at a fast pace through its short chapters with close-call endings.
The diverse seven include guerilla-minded Carlos, reserved and optimistic Hala, timid but brilliant Adam, technology-savvy and quirky Brandon, and arrogant but accomplished Nigel. Their dynamic is amusing as they struggle to trust each other and work toward accomplishing their mission. Further, they are guided by a person they all respect. Some of the seven are clones of historical figures whom they adore, including Joan of Arc; the rest must come to terms with who they represent and endeavor not to repeat the infamous actions of those figures. They’re developed in a thorough manner through their conversations, moments of reflection, and flashbacks, and they learn to make profound sacrifices as the story continues.
However, the characters are introduced in such swift succession that the book becomes dizzying early on. In addition, their internal bickering is sometimes excessive, as where Nigel brags about his father’s money to Carlos during a training session, distracting from the critical mission at hand. Further, Brandon’s ill-timed interjections, while consistent with his characterization, sometimes clash with the otherwise serious tone of the book.
Concluding with many unanswered questions and building intrigue for its sequel, The Phoenix Elite: Sacred Blood is a compelling, action-packed science fiction novel.
Reviewed by
Gabriella Harrison
Disclosure: This article is not an endorsement, but a review. The publisher of this book provided free copies of the book and paid a small fee to have their book reviewed by a professional reviewer. Foreword Reviews and Clarion Reviews make no guarantee that the publisher will receive a positive review. Foreword Magazine, Inc. is disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
