Karyn Henley's Breath of Angel ~ Reviewed

Breath of Angel
The Angeleon Circle: Book One
By Karyn Henley
Waterbrook Press
June 2011
978-0-307-73012-1

Review by Michelle Griep

Melaia, a young priestess, witnesses the gruesome murder of an emaciated stranger in the temple courtyard. Just after she discovers wings on the stranger, the murderer arrives at the temple. Having committed the fatal act as a hawk, he now appears as a man. What Melaia has known only through song and story has suddenly been given flesh. Angels. Shape-shifter. Myths and stories…until now.

Melaia finds herself in the middle of a blood feud between two immortal brothers who destroyed the stairway to heaven, stranding angels in the earthly realm. When the feud turns violent and Melaia becomes a target, she finds refuge with a band of wandering angels who are attempting to restore the stairway. But restoration is impossible without the repayment of an ancient debt, the “Breath of angel, blood of man,” a payment that involves Melaiea’s heart, soul and destiny.

After reading this book, I find myself squinting at people’s backs, wondering if they’re hiding a set of angel wings. This is an interesting read, raising all kinds of questions and stirring up lots of ‘what if’ types of thoughts.

What I noticed most about Henley’s writing is that she’s a winner at dialogue. I loved the conversations between characters. Sometimes snappy, other times witty, always delightful.

The character that most intrigued me was Trevin. Trustworthy or not? By the end of the story, I’m still not sure. Good thing there will be several more books to follow and hopefully that will be cleared up. Personally, I’m hoping he turns out to be ‘da man’ who captures Melaiea’s heart.

Make no mistake. This is a fantasy. Not sure how accurate the theology is, but it makes for an action-packed tale. Getting into the story is somewhat tricky, especially since people’s/angel’s names are all foreign. But once you’re hooked, you’re hooked.

I look forward to the second installment of The Angelon Circle.