Angel Mage

Starred review from September 9, 2019
Nix (Frogkisser!) builds a Dumas-inspired world filled with angelic legions in this tremendous fantasy that follows Angel Mage Liliath, newly risen from more than a century of magical sleep and ready to reunite with the archangel of Ystara, whom she both loves and compels. Her scheme to return to Ystara depends on the presence of four friends, all 18-year-old provincials newly arrived in the neighboring capital of Sarance: a scholar and icon painter of unusual ability; a new cadet in the Queen’s Musketeers; a clerk who serves the Cardinal; and a student doctor of some skill. Liliath gathers supporters among the Refusers, whose ancestors fled their native Ystara and cannot be touched by magic following an angelic disaster that cursed the population. Readers familiar with The Three Musketeers will see echoes of it here: a chance meeting among the four friends, an intrigue with some jewelry, and Liliath in the role of the mysterious female foe. A unique magical system based on angel summoning and icons, deft characterization—including male and female protagonists and LGBTQ representation—and an affectionate rendering of Dumas’s style will delight teen and adult fans of swashbuckling romance. Ages 14–up. Agent: Jill Grinberg, Jill Grinberg Literary Management.

With Kristin Atherton's top-notch narration, listeners will quickly be drawn into a well-developed world in which magic and angels merge. Over 100 years have passed since Lillian fled from the fall of Ystara. When she awakens completely renewed, she is once again unwavering in her quest to reunite with her lover, fallen archangel Palleniel. Stopping at nothing, Lillian will use whoever she needs to fulfill her destiny. Atherton creates characters using ever-changing accents, clear enunciation, and varying tones that invite listeners to get to know Lillian's pawns. Simeon is a skilled physician-in-training; Henri, a determined clerk; Agnez, a plucky musketeer cadet; and Dorotea, a flighty scholar. Portraying a broad cast of characters, Atherton endows them with distinct voices. E.P. � AudioFile 2019, Portland, Maine