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Guild Hunter #14
Archangel's Light
Nalini Singh returns to the world of the Guild Hunters for the most highly anticipated novel of the beloved series—a love story so epic it’s been half a millennia in the making�
Illium and Aodhan. Aodhan and Illium. For centuries they’ve been inseparable: the best of friends, closer than brothers, companions of the heart. But that was before—before darkness befell Aodhan and shattered him, body, mind, and soul. Now, at long last, Aodhan is healing, but his new-found strength and independence may come at a devastating cost—his relationship with Illium.
As they serve side by side in China, a territory yet marked by the evil of its former archangel, the secret it holds nightmarish beyond imagining, things come to an explosive decision point. Illium and Aodhan must either walk away from the relationship that has defined them—or step forward into a future that promises a bond infinitely precious in the life of an immortal…but that demands a terrifying vulnerability from two badly bruised hearts.
Illium and Aodhan. Aodhan and Illium. For centuries they’ve been inseparable: the best of friends, closer than brothers, companions of the heart. But that was before—before darkness befell Aodhan and shattered him, body, mind, and soul. Now, at long last, Aodhan is healing, but his new-found strength and independence may come at a devastating cost—his relationship with Illium.
As they serve side by side in China, a territory yet marked by the evil of its former archangel, the secret it holds nightmarish beyond imagining, things come to an explosive decision point. Illium and Aodhan must either walk away from the relationship that has defined them—or step forward into a future that promises a bond infinitely precious in the life of an immortal…but that demands a terrifying vulnerability from two badly bruised hearts.
396 pages, ebook
First published October 26, 2021
402 people are currently reading
5115 people want to read
About the author
Nalini Singh
235books26.5kfollowersI've been writing as long as I can remember and all of my stories always held a thread of romance (even when I was writing about a prince who could shoot lasers out of his eyes). I love creating unique characters, love giving them happy endings and I even love the voices in my head. There's no other job I would rather be doing. In September 2002, when I got the call that Silhouette Desire wanted to buy my first book, Desert Warrior, it was a dream come true. I hope to continue living the dream until I keel over of old age on my keyboard.
I was born in Fiji and raised in New Zealand. I also spent three years living and working in Japan, during which time I took the chance to travel around Asia. I’m back in New Zealand now, but I’m always plotting new trips. If you’d like to see some of my travel snapshots, have a look at the Travel Diary page (updated every month).
So far, I've worked as a lawyer, a librarian, a candy factory general hand, a bank temp and an English teacher and not necessarily in that order. Some might call that inconsistency but I call it grist for the writer's mill.
I was born in Fiji and raised in New Zealand. I also spent three years living and working in Japan, during which time I took the chance to travel around Asia. I’m back in New Zealand now, but I’m always plotting new trips. If you’d like to see some of my travel snapshots, have a look at the Travel Diary page (updated every month).
So far, I've worked as a lawyer, a librarian, a candy factory general hand, a bank temp and an English teacher and not necessarily in that order. Some might call that inconsistency but I call it grist for the writer's mill.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 1,382 reviews
October 26, 2021
***Happy Publication Day***
3.75 - 4 Stars
I had a really long, gif-filled review for this that I inadvertently deleted when I accidentally and idiotically hit the power button on my computer.
I don't see myself being able to replicate what I had written, and I'm also not that motivated to try. Cause I'm pretty irritated right now. So this is going to be sloppy. But hey, at least I'm laying something down.
I'll do my best.
This is a book that I (and many Guild Hunter fans) have been wanting and anticipating for a really long time. Seriously though, for years. I read book one when it originally came out in 2009. I still have the battered mass market paperback. There is scotch tape holding the spine together. Meaning: I've read it into the ground. And THEN bought the digital copy...but still kept the paperback. Because, you know, nostalgia. And book hoarding. And because I haven't had to move recently.
But I digress.
My point. Aodhan and Illium's relationship and story has been something that has captivated us all since book one. And when Nalini released the blurb for this thing, we all went a little insane.
A wholly reasonable response in my opinion.
As a result though, I was worried about how all the external and internal buzz of this high would affect my reading experience. All of us readers know the damage bloated expectations can have on what would otherwise have been a great read.
So I tried to maintain an open mind and tempered expectations when I sat down to read this. And I'm glad I did.
After finishing this last night, I thought long and hard as I was unsuccessfully trying to fall asleep (because general insomnia) about what I was going to put in my review for this. After all, this is an ARC and a highly anticipated read.
So, since I already felt unsure about what was the most diplomatic way of trying to say how I feel without making it sound like a gripe...and since I lost the long ass review I tapped out in my quest for said diplomacy, I have decided I am simply going to get right to the point and say what I myself would want to know about this book.
Which is this:
If you are thinking this is going to be a traditional, full-fledged M/M romance story...
...adjust your expectations. Because this is just not that.
I know. You are thinking...
But it's true. And that's okay.
Because while this may not have been quite the...robust M/M Singh romance I was expecting, it WAS a story about a friendship that transcends the definition. And, quite frankly (and practically), I feel like Nalini had to straddle a fine line here. In my opinion, she wanted to write the book she knew her fans wanted, and to which her own characters had led her - an M/M book. But she had to do it in a way that wouldn't be off-putting to her M/F readers who haven't ever dipped their toe into the M/M pool and/or who have really no interest in doing so outside this book.
And so, in that regard, I think Nalini was very successful at pulling it off. What we got here is a slow burn, light romance involving one of our favorite duos of all time. It was true to the characters Nalini has so painstakingly crafted over this series arc. It was beautiful. And I really enjoyed it.
This book jumped back and forth between the present and past pivotal moments in Aodhan and Illium's lives and relationship. If you are a fan of the series and eat up anything and everything Aodhan/Illium (which I am and I do), then you will really enjoy this format and the endless glimpses we get into not only the the lives of Aodhan and Illium, but of a few other key Seven members as well.
I didn't think it was possible, but I love Raphael and his Seven even more than ever before. And I LOVED how stinking adorable Aodhan and Illium were, across all time frames. They were just a joy to read about. In fact, I would read another book about them in a heartbeat. Even if every scene is just them bickering.
All that said, in my opinion, if you go into this this book expecting a fast-paced, hot and heavy M/M romance (in the sense that you have read a lot of M/M before and expect certain things), you are going to be hugely disappointed.
However, if you go into the book ready for a calm, somewhat slow-moving character piece on a friendship and love that transcends romance altogether, you will really enjoy this. Perhaps even more than I did.
XXXXXXXXXX
Sooooooo excited you guys. Not only did I get lucky enough to get an ARC for this, but it's gonna be the first book I read on my new Precious Precious!
Gonna be a great weekend.
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
You guys...
I'm so exited, I can't even form sentences. This is the one we've been waiting and hoping for, folks!
3.75 - 4 Stars
I had a really long, gif-filled review for this that I inadvertently deleted when I accidentally and idiotically hit the power button on my computer.
I don't see myself being able to replicate what I had written, and I'm also not that motivated to try. Cause I'm pretty irritated right now. So this is going to be sloppy. But hey, at least I'm laying something down.
I'll do my best.
This is a book that I (and many Guild Hunter fans) have been wanting and anticipating for a really long time. Seriously though, for years. I read book one when it originally came out in 2009. I still have the battered mass market paperback. There is scotch tape holding the spine together. Meaning: I've read it into the ground. And THEN bought the digital copy...but still kept the paperback. Because, you know, nostalgia. And book hoarding. And because I haven't had to move recently.
But I digress.
My point. Aodhan and Illium's relationship and story has been something that has captivated us all since book one. And when Nalini released the blurb for this thing, we all went a little insane.
A wholly reasonable response in my opinion.
As a result though, I was worried about how all the external and internal buzz of this high would affect my reading experience. All of us readers know the damage bloated expectations can have on what would otherwise have been a great read.
So I tried to maintain an open mind and tempered expectations when I sat down to read this. And I'm glad I did.
After finishing this last night, I thought long and hard as I was unsuccessfully trying to fall asleep (because general insomnia) about what I was going to put in my review for this. After all, this is an ARC and a highly anticipated read.
So, since I already felt unsure about what was the most diplomatic way of trying to say how I feel without making it sound like a gripe...and since I lost the long ass review I tapped out in my quest for said diplomacy, I have decided I am simply going to get right to the point and say what I myself would want to know about this book.
Which is this:
If you are thinking this is going to be a traditional, full-fledged M/M romance story...
...adjust your expectations. Because this is just not that.
I know. You are thinking...
But it's true. And that's okay.
Because while this may not have been quite the...robust M/M Singh romance I was expecting, it WAS a story about a friendship that transcends the definition. And, quite frankly (and practically), I feel like Nalini had to straddle a fine line here. In my opinion, she wanted to write the book she knew her fans wanted, and to which her own characters had led her - an M/M book. But she had to do it in a way that wouldn't be off-putting to her M/F readers who haven't ever dipped their toe into the M/M pool and/or who have really no interest in doing so outside this book.
And so, in that regard, I think Nalini was very successful at pulling it off. What we got here is a slow burn, light romance involving one of our favorite duos of all time. It was true to the characters Nalini has so painstakingly crafted over this series arc. It was beautiful. And I really enjoyed it.
This book jumped back and forth between the present and past pivotal moments in Aodhan and Illium's lives and relationship. If you are a fan of the series and eat up anything and everything Aodhan/Illium (which I am and I do), then you will really enjoy this format and the endless glimpses we get into not only the the lives of Aodhan and Illium, but of a few other key Seven members as well.
I didn't think it was possible, but I love Raphael and his Seven even more than ever before. And I LOVED how stinking adorable Aodhan and Illium were, across all time frames. They were just a joy to read about. In fact, I would read another book about them in a heartbeat. Even if every scene is just them bickering.
All that said, in my opinion, if you go into this this book expecting a fast-paced, hot and heavy M/M romance (in the sense that you have read a lot of M/M before and expect certain things), you are going to be hugely disappointed.
However, if you go into the book ready for a calm, somewhat slow-moving character piece on a friendship and love that transcends romance altogether, you will really enjoy this. Perhaps even more than I did.
XXXXXXXXXX
Sooooooo excited you guys. Not only did I get lucky enough to get an ARC for this, but it's gonna be the first book I read on my new Precious Precious!
Gonna be a great weekend.
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
You guys...
I'm so exited, I can't even form sentences. This is the one we've been waiting and hoping for, folks!
November 16, 2021
EVERYTHING I EVER WANTED and MORE!!! ✨�
I remember the time I started shipping them. It seems so long ago now. The thought that there was a possibility that they might not end up together, made me feel so empty; they were so perfect for each other. ARE so perfect for/ with each other. I can’t explain or express how this book made me feel. I’m having too many feelings at the moment. All heartwarming 🥰 Waiting and waiting and waiting for their story...I feel so happy for them. ❤️ This is love at its purest form. The tension, the angst, the jealousy from both sides... everything was so perfect and I NEED MORE! A 100 books more about Ilium and Aodhan, because this was not a standalone, it doesn’t feel like one. Their journey just began and I can’t wait for the next part... 🤍👨❤️💋👨�
The “yesterday� chapters were so precious. Aodhan and Illium as children were so adorable 👼🏼👼🏻:
� A moment later, he smiled, this child of light, and held out the flower to Illium.� 🥀
The intimacy in this book was way more than what I was expecting. This is a life journey, I wasn’t expecting them to jump each other’s bones in first book. There’s time for that.. 😈. This was about healing and accepting WHAT they were to each other. All the touches, the kisses, were so beautiful, I just wanted to cry tears of happiness. It’s all I ever dreamed to see!
(God, the kisses between them ruined me for every other couple and love story 😩. I’ll never be the same again and I’m not sorry at all 😀)
“He was fighting every muscle in his body not to slam into Illium and wrap him up in his arms and in his wings.�
.....
“Touch had been used to torture him once. Now, he craved it... but only from a scarce few. Illium was at the top of the list.�
.....
“To see Aodhan after so long and not touch him? It was agony.�
GLORIOUS AND EPIC, just like them!
I will definitely re-re-re-reread this as soon as I get my paperbacks. This is my favorite of the series, NO DOUBT. My most anticipated book of the DECADE and it didn’t disappoint. 😍 How cool is this??!!
The most heartbreaking part was when we learned what was done to Aodhan. Poor baby. 😭 (ugly crying)
Everything and everyone from the past was put to rest and OUR BOYS are FINALLY ready to start the life they deserve together. I couldn’t wish for a better outcome. LOVED, loved, LOVED THIS! ❤️❤️❤️❤️
“Illium was the sun in his system, the person without whom nothing else functioned quite right.�
Other characters and wishes for the next book:
1. Aegaeon- OMG! How much of an asshole can you be? Or were? There’s no redemption for you!
2. Good thing the 7 are all now in New York. Can I please have the part when the other 5 and Elena&R tease Illium and Aodhan about the recent events? 😃
3. Can we have the Legion back now? 🥺 it’s been too long (for me). Nothing is the same without them.
4. The new character introduced in China. WOW. I’m so intrigued. 👀😮
5. AGAIN, can the NEXT BOOK be about ILLIUM AND AODHAN??? 😃😃😃 pleaseeeee
Thank you!
I remember the time I started shipping them. It seems so long ago now. The thought that there was a possibility that they might not end up together, made me feel so empty; they were so perfect for each other. ARE so perfect for/ with each other. I can’t explain or express how this book made me feel. I’m having too many feelings at the moment. All heartwarming 🥰 Waiting and waiting and waiting for their story...I feel so happy for them. ❤️ This is love at its purest form. The tension, the angst, the jealousy from both sides... everything was so perfect and I NEED MORE! A 100 books more about Ilium and Aodhan, because this was not a standalone, it doesn’t feel like one. Their journey just began and I can’t wait for the next part... 🤍👨❤️💋👨�
The “yesterday� chapters were so precious. Aodhan and Illium as children were so adorable 👼🏼👼🏻:
� A moment later, he smiled, this child of light, and held out the flower to Illium.� 🥀
The intimacy in this book was way more than what I was expecting. This is a life journey, I wasn’t expecting them to jump each other’s bones in first book. There’s time for that.. 😈. This was about healing and accepting WHAT they were to each other. All the touches, the kisses, were so beautiful, I just wanted to cry tears of happiness. It’s all I ever dreamed to see!
(God, the kisses between them ruined me for every other couple and love story 😩. I’ll never be the same again and I’m not sorry at all 😀)
“He was fighting every muscle in his body not to slam into Illium and wrap him up in his arms and in his wings.�
.....
“Touch had been used to torture him once. Now, he craved it... but only from a scarce few. Illium was at the top of the list.�
.....
“To see Aodhan after so long and not touch him? It was agony.�
GLORIOUS AND EPIC, just like them!
I will definitely re-re-re-reread this as soon as I get my paperbacks. This is my favorite of the series, NO DOUBT. My most anticipated book of the DECADE and it didn’t disappoint. 😍 How cool is this??!!
The most heartbreaking part was when we learned what was done to Aodhan. Poor baby. 😭 (ugly crying)
Everything and everyone from the past was put to rest and OUR BOYS are FINALLY ready to start the life they deserve together. I couldn’t wish for a better outcome. LOVED, loved, LOVED THIS! ❤️❤️❤️❤️
“Illium was the sun in his system, the person without whom nothing else functioned quite right.�
Other characters and wishes for the next book:
1. Aegaeon- OMG! How much of an asshole can you be? Or were? There’s no redemption for you!
2. Good thing the 7 are all now in New York. Can I please have the part when the other 5 and Elena&R tease Illium and Aodhan about the recent events? 😃
3. Can we have the Legion back now? 🥺 it’s been too long (for me). Nothing is the same without them.
4. The new character introduced in China. WOW. I’m so intrigued. 👀😮
5. AGAIN, can the NEXT BOOK be about ILLIUM AND AODHAN??? 😃😃😃 pleaseeeee
Thank you!
May 25, 2021
All right - Illium ? Go to China to get your man so you can watch the goddamn horror movie together, and then fuck off to watch it in NY where you belong before you ascend to archangel and the actual love of your life, Aodhan, becomes your consort so you don't become bat shit crazy.
There. I wrote the book, you're welcome. :)
About Suyin ? Listen sister I have nothing against you, but I'm sure you'll find the one one day. Aint going to be either of them, though. Best of luck ! *thumbs up*
There. I wrote the book, you're welcome. :)
About Suyin ? Listen sister I have nothing against you, but I'm sure you'll find the one one day. Aint going to be either of them, though. Best of luck ! *thumbs up*
September 9, 2021
I have been reading this series now since 2012. (The first book was written in 2009.) A lot has changed since the inception of this series. Originally there was to be a few books about Raphael and Elena and then one for each of the Seven. As the years have gone by I've watched the series grow and become more complex. Throughout the changes it has remained one of my all time favorite PNR/UF series.
I went in to this one with some trepidation though. We've literally been waiting for this book for years and I was worried that my expectations would be too high. Also, in the past, my expectations didn't pan out like I wanted. Venom is my favorite of the Seven but I didn't love his book. Naasir I had never given much thought to but his book has been my favorite (until this one). BUT.......I'm SO happy to say that this exceeded my hopes for this book. It was absolutely beautiful. Every page showed just how much time and thought the author put in to telling this story.
The story goes back and forth from "Today" to "Yesterday". Yesterday starting when Illium and Aodhan meet as toddlers and then showing various major steps along the way. These are important to the story because they fill in not only their younger years but also give us the details of major things as we've not seen them before. These are important stepping stones to how they've gotten to where they are today. For me, one of the best parts of the story was seeing Raphael, Dmitri and Naasir as they interacted with Illium and Aodhan as children and then young adults. There were some really lovely moments. Some really heart breaking ones too. (I had tears rolling down my face at one point.)
The today section starts a year after the last book ended with Aodhan still in China help to clean up the nightmare mess that has been left behind. Raphael sends Illium to help and this brings the guys back together to start working through their problems. They also help to uncover some additional nightmares Lijuan has left behind.
I don't want to say anything else about the plot because it's best you go in with no preconceived ideas. I didn't get what I was expecting but I think what we got was better. I think the author handled it perfectly. I know there is a lot of controversy about this couple. For those who are on the fence and are not sure what to expect I really encourage you to read this. I think all of your questions will be answered, all the pieces will come together and it will all make sense. You're in for a beautiful ride if you just give the book a chance. I truly think you'll love it.
For those who are unwilling to give it a chance I guess there's not much to say. I mentioned how long this series has been going on (12 years now) to point out that things change. Life changes. Author's visions change. The world changes. You're not ancient angels unable to change. You're real people who can choose to step outside their comfort zones. You're people who can choose to support an author who is trying to provide diversity to her characters so all kinds of readers can see themselves represented in her stories. Choose wisely mortals.
*ARC provide by the publisher through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
**Although I reviewed this book base on an ARC I would like to note that I have also pre-ordered both the ebook and the audiobook because love is love and author's who try to show diversity are going to get push back and I think it's important to support them if you can.**
I went in to this one with some trepidation though. We've literally been waiting for this book for years and I was worried that my expectations would be too high. Also, in the past, my expectations didn't pan out like I wanted. Venom is my favorite of the Seven but I didn't love his book. Naasir I had never given much thought to but his book has been my favorite (until this one). BUT.......I'm SO happy to say that this exceeded my hopes for this book. It was absolutely beautiful. Every page showed just how much time and thought the author put in to telling this story.
The story goes back and forth from "Today" to "Yesterday". Yesterday starting when Illium and Aodhan meet as toddlers and then showing various major steps along the way. These are important to the story because they fill in not only their younger years but also give us the details of major things as we've not seen them before. These are important stepping stones to how they've gotten to where they are today. For me, one of the best parts of the story was seeing Raphael, Dmitri and Naasir as they interacted with Illium and Aodhan as children and then young adults. There were some really lovely moments. Some really heart breaking ones too. (I had tears rolling down my face at one point.)
The today section starts a year after the last book ended with Aodhan still in China help to clean up the nightmare mess that has been left behind. Raphael sends Illium to help and this brings the guys back together to start working through their problems. They also help to uncover some additional nightmares Lijuan has left behind.
I don't want to say anything else about the plot because it's best you go in with no preconceived ideas. I didn't get what I was expecting but I think what we got was better. I think the author handled it perfectly. I know there is a lot of controversy about this couple. For those who are on the fence and are not sure what to expect I really encourage you to read this. I think all of your questions will be answered, all the pieces will come together and it will all make sense. You're in for a beautiful ride if you just give the book a chance. I truly think you'll love it.
For those who are unwilling to give it a chance I guess there's not much to say. I mentioned how long this series has been going on (12 years now) to point out that things change. Life changes. Author's visions change. The world changes. You're not ancient angels unable to change. You're real people who can choose to step outside their comfort zones. You're people who can choose to support an author who is trying to provide diversity to her characters so all kinds of readers can see themselves represented in her stories. Choose wisely mortals.
*ARC provide by the publisher through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
**Although I reviewed this book base on an ARC I would like to note that I have also pre-ordered both the ebook and the audiobook because love is love and author's who try to show diversity are going to get push back and I think it's important to support them if you can.**
June 1, 2021
So the new cover reveal suggests Nalini is pairing Bluebell and Aodham.
OUCH
It feels like you have been married to someone since 2010 and they have just told you they are gay, but also they are going to leave you for their stepbrother, so not only is your heart broken but you want to vomit as well.
****
Please don’t have a romance between step siblings, it is my most hated romance trope.
As far as I have read Illium and Aodhan have a brotherly affection for each other, to change it now would be weird.
October 26, 2021
This book... oh man, this book! You guys have no idea how highly anticipated this book was for me: ever since I spotted some ~vibes~ between I&A back in (aka 8 years ago!) And when the announcement for the release came in May, it literally felt like the gates of heaven opened just for me; because this was going to be IT aka NS FINALLY treating Illium & Aodhan like the pair she's always hinted they were going to be.
And well... it fell short. It breaks my heart to say this, but this book gets a 3/5 stars rating from me (and that's mostly because I'm incredibly fond of them and I have been a fan for what feels like centuries, 'cause otherwise it would go straight to 2/5 stars)
What I liked:
- the Yesterday chapters because I LOVED seeing tiny angelic toddlers Illium & Aodhan becoming the best of friends and being mischievous menaces together
- also I enjoyed seeing more of their history together (and of their family's) including some of the Seven like Dmitri and Naasir (and babysitter extraordinaire Raphael)
- I'm glad we finally got the full account of what happened to Aodhan, we knew it was going to be excruciating, and it really broke my heart to see what he went through (I'm also surprised we got those chapters in Raphael's POV, I wasn't expecting that; I would've thought for sure it was going to be Illium's)
- Aodhan becoming more confident and finally healing after his trauma
- Illium being less careful with Aodhan and treating him more like an equal
What was problematic:
- the plot! it was paper thin and could've been solved in max. 3 chapters if this were any other book of NS'
- the 'Reincarnated Doppelgänger Lover' trope...what were the fucking odds that when Illium & Aodhan finally!!! got their shit together, Illium's ONLY LOVE gets reincarnated and guess what? he finds her right there in Aodhan's territory? you know what, spare me. it's a cliché and boring af plot device that wasn't needed in front of such an outstanding bond such as theirs.
- the slowburn. I'm a big fan of it but not when it lasts more than 85% for them to stop getting in dumb fights with each other because they can't communicate properly after they've been friends for centuries!
What annoyed me:
- NS' lack of commitment towards Illium & Aodhan as lgbtq couple.
now, if you were to tell me this book was just the appetizer before the main course, I would be content to wait a bit more. just, as long as we get to SEE the resolution.
i will GLADLY take back the following words and apologize if her plan for I&A meant spreading their story across more books (IM ALL FOR MORE BOOKS) since I would be thrilled she is honoring their love like that, in a manner befitting a main couple like E&R. there is so much to explore in their relationship, this book barely covers 10% of their potential.
because as it stands, they just mainly agreed to be in each other's life no matter what aka regardless of a romantic component. to give it a try and don't give up.
I sincerely hope this book represents the foundation for another Illium & Aodhan book because as it was, you can't tell me they were treated as a standard NS couple.
the message of that choice is not a very pleasing one.
I would hate to think this is NS being weary of fully dipping her toes in a m/m romance just so she could pander to the het side of fandom by leaving a window of hope 'hey! maybe they'll go back to being bffs and forget this inSaNiTy because they are BROSincestEWgays' which some of them definitely have.
however... if this is supposed to be the Sole and Only book with I&A as a main couple we're ever going to get... then I would politely ask her to grow up, to stop pandering to both sides of the fandom, pick one and stick with it.
lgbtq couples shouldn't be used as fillers... as a novelty act...or as something you thought might get you in line with the times. especially not after writing something like this and after you've hinted at this pairing for y e a r s.
either commit to it or don't even try. you can't please everyone.
___________________
LE: the reviews of people being so disgruntled over the news of their pairing are hilarious to be honest. this pairing has been foreshadowed since for-fucking-ever, you just had to pay attention to the details. does no one wonder why ns stopped writing about the seven with Venom aka book #10? and then she went back to elena and raphael with 2 books and THEN the pairing she chooses after that is with Sharine, Illium's mother? quite a coincidence huh. if she was going to do her usual romance with ALL of the seven there wouldn't have been a need for any of this. just you know...think! exercise the braincell.
she needed time for both of them to grow a bit more and also develop in their separate ways - Aodhan to heal, Illium to grow stronger and (almost) Ascend. (which he'll probably do in this book and the title will be relevant twice over)
i was so sure it was just baiting and that she would settle and do the easy 'expected' plot with that new female character Suyin, turns out she does have the guts to go through it. bless her 🥂
Illium be like:
___________________
HOLY GOD THE COVER
HOLY GOD
H O L Y
i have been waiting for this book since 2013 aka Archangel's Legion
HOW IS THIS A REALITY 😭
And well... it fell short. It breaks my heart to say this, but this book gets a 3/5 stars rating from me (and that's mostly because I'm incredibly fond of them and I have been a fan for what feels like centuries, 'cause otherwise it would go straight to 2/5 stars)
What I liked:
- the Yesterday chapters because I LOVED seeing tiny angelic toddlers Illium & Aodhan becoming the best of friends and being mischievous menaces together
- also I enjoyed seeing more of their history together (and of their family's) including some of the Seven like Dmitri and Naasir (and babysitter extraordinaire Raphael)
- I'm glad we finally got the full account of what happened to Aodhan, we knew it was going to be excruciating, and it really broke my heart to see what he went through (I'm also surprised we got those chapters in Raphael's POV, I wasn't expecting that; I would've thought for sure it was going to be Illium's)
- Aodhan becoming more confident and finally healing after his trauma
- Illium being less careful with Aodhan and treating him more like an equal
What was problematic:
- the plot! it was paper thin and could've been solved in max. 3 chapters if this were any other book of NS'
- the 'Reincarnated Doppelgänger Lover' trope...what were the fucking odds that when Illium & Aodhan finally!!! got their shit together, Illium's ONLY LOVE gets reincarnated and guess what? he finds her right there in Aodhan's territory? you know what, spare me. it's a cliché and boring af plot device that wasn't needed in front of such an outstanding bond such as theirs.
- the slowburn. I'm a big fan of it but not when it lasts more than 85% for them to stop getting in dumb fights with each other because they can't communicate properly after they've been friends for centuries!
What annoyed me:
- NS' lack of commitment towards Illium & Aodhan as lgbtq couple.
now, if you were to tell me this book was just the appetizer before the main course, I would be content to wait a bit more. just, as long as we get to SEE the resolution.
i will GLADLY take back the following words and apologize if her plan for I&A meant spreading their story across more books (IM ALL FOR MORE BOOKS) since I would be thrilled she is honoring their love like that, in a manner befitting a main couple like E&R. there is so much to explore in their relationship, this book barely covers 10% of their potential.
because as it stands, they just mainly agreed to be in each other's life no matter what aka regardless of a romantic component. to give it a try and don't give up.
I sincerely hope this book represents the foundation for another Illium & Aodhan book because as it was, you can't tell me they were treated as a standard NS couple.
the message of that choice is not a very pleasing one.
I would hate to think this is NS being weary of fully dipping her toes in a m/m romance just so she could pander to the het side of fandom by leaving a window of hope 'hey! maybe they'll go back to being bffs and forget this inSaNiTy because they are BROSincestEWgays' which some of them definitely have.
however... if this is supposed to be the Sole and Only book with I&A as a main couple we're ever going to get... then I would politely ask her to grow up, to stop pandering to both sides of the fandom, pick one and stick with it.
lgbtq couples shouldn't be used as fillers... as a novelty act...or as something you thought might get you in line with the times. especially not after writing something like this and after you've hinted at this pairing for y e a r s.
either commit to it or don't even try. you can't please everyone.
___________________
LE: the reviews of people being so disgruntled over the news of their pairing are hilarious to be honest. this pairing has been foreshadowed since for-fucking-ever, you just had to pay attention to the details. does no one wonder why ns stopped writing about the seven with Venom aka book #10? and then she went back to elena and raphael with 2 books and THEN the pairing she chooses after that is with Sharine, Illium's mother? quite a coincidence huh. if she was going to do her usual romance with ALL of the seven there wouldn't have been a need for any of this. just you know...think! exercise the braincell.
she needed time for both of them to grow a bit more and also develop in their separate ways - Aodhan to heal, Illium to grow stronger and (almost) Ascend. (which he'll probably do in this book and the title will be relevant twice over)
i was so sure it was just baiting and that she would settle and do the easy 'expected' plot with that new female character Suyin, turns out she does have the guts to go through it. bless her 🥂
Illium be like:
___________________
HOLY GOD THE COVER
HOLY GOD
H O L Y
i have been waiting for this book since 2013 aka Archangel's Legion
HOW IS THIS A REALITY 😭
October 28, 2021
OMGOMGOMGOMG
we are getting their story!! This is going to be my most anticipated book of the year, AND we are getting it in less than 6 month. I'm blown away!!
READING UPDATE: What a privilege to be able to read this book early. I don't exaggerate when I say that this book is one that I hoped we would get for the last 5 years.
I might not go to work tomorrow, because I'll definitely be staying up late to read.
READING UPDATE
It's hard to imagine that not everyone is going to enjoy this heartwarming and slow burn romance between two of our favorite angels. The story is perfect for anyone who hasn't read any or many MM romances yet. Because at the heart of it all, this story is about a one of a kind connection between two beings which has endured hardships but also has never wavered. Their connection has always been deep, strong and unshakable. And for them to take the next step just makes sense. And feels RIGHT!!!
The story fits their personality to a T. And I can't wait to read more about them in later books.
Full review on
___________________________________
I received a copy of this book from the publisher for free in exchange for an honest review. My opinions have not been influenced by the publisher or the author.
You can find me on and on
we are getting their story!! This is going to be my most anticipated book of the year, AND we are getting it in less than 6 month. I'm blown away!!
READING UPDATE: What a privilege to be able to read this book early. I don't exaggerate when I say that this book is one that I hoped we would get for the last 5 years.
I might not go to work tomorrow, because I'll definitely be staying up late to read.
READING UPDATE
It's hard to imagine that not everyone is going to enjoy this heartwarming and slow burn romance between two of our favorite angels. The story is perfect for anyone who hasn't read any or many MM romances yet. Because at the heart of it all, this story is about a one of a kind connection between two beings which has endured hardships but also has never wavered. Their connection has always been deep, strong and unshakable. And for them to take the next step just makes sense. And feels RIGHT!!!
The story fits their personality to a T. And I can't wait to read more about them in later books.
Full review on
___________________________________
I received a copy of this book from the publisher for free in exchange for an honest review. My opinions have not been influenced by the publisher or the author.
You can find me on and on
September 23, 2021
Illium!!! and Aodhan!!!!!
3.5-4 stars.
Okay, I’m going to be transparent. There is not much romance in this one. Aodhan and Illium’s romantic relationship doesn’t really start until� 90% into the book. (And there's no steam, womp.) It’s a friends to lovers romance, HEAVY emphasis on the friends. These two have been best friends for over 500 years and we finally get to read about all their significant moments, from Illium falling in love for the first time to the tragedy that broke Aodhan, to these two coming to realize that they are IT for each other. To my surprise, I liked the way that this played out, though if you know me, I’m a Nalini Singh fangirl so I might be biased. Even though there was barely any romance, I LOVED all the chapters set in the past with Illium and Aodhan as baby angels. They were the freaking CUTEST and always up to some mischief. We get to see them grow up side by side, always as partners, and we also get to see the different relationships between Raphael’s Seven. Illium and Aodhan are the younger members of the Seven, literally babies when they meet Raphael, Dmitri, and Naasir. The way their friendships develop with each member is so lovely to read, because you can see how the older members adore and treasure them.
I will admit the first half of the book is very slow paced. Not much is happening except for Illium and Aodhan being estranged while working together in China to fix the mess Lijuan left. The story picks up in the second half thankfully and I still enjoyed the book overall. Could I have done with more romance? 100% yes. But I loved the way Nalini Singh set up their friendship before moving on to the romance.
3.5-4 stars.
Okay, I’m going to be transparent. There is not much romance in this one. Aodhan and Illium’s romantic relationship doesn’t really start until� 90% into the book. (And there's no steam, womp.) It’s a friends to lovers romance, HEAVY emphasis on the friends. These two have been best friends for over 500 years and we finally get to read about all their significant moments, from Illium falling in love for the first time to the tragedy that broke Aodhan, to these two coming to realize that they are IT for each other. To my surprise, I liked the way that this played out, though if you know me, I’m a Nalini Singh fangirl so I might be biased. Even though there was barely any romance, I LOVED all the chapters set in the past with Illium and Aodhan as baby angels. They were the freaking CUTEST and always up to some mischief. We get to see them grow up side by side, always as partners, and we also get to see the different relationships between Raphael’s Seven. Illium and Aodhan are the younger members of the Seven, literally babies when they meet Raphael, Dmitri, and Naasir. The way their friendships develop with each member is so lovely to read, because you can see how the older members adore and treasure them.
I will admit the first half of the book is very slow paced. Not much is happening except for Illium and Aodhan being estranged while working together in China to fix the mess Lijuan left. The story picks up in the second half thankfully and I still enjoyed the book overall. Could I have done with more romance? 100% yes. But I loved the way Nalini Singh set up their friendship before moving on to the romance.
June 10, 2021
10/6/21
*Opens up the newsletter a few days ago*
*Sees the cover*
I have a veeeery bad feeling about this...
*Reads the blurb*
I think Nalini Singh is one of the most amazing authors out there, but was it too much to ask from her to either properly establish certain things about her characters from the get go, or, if she wanted to make monumental changes like this after 10+ books, then for her to do so in a spin-off completely separate form the series at hand? (If this was a spin-off, then people who wanted this book would have been just as happy about it, and those who did not could have ignored it without missing anything.) And if she wanted to do this, then why have we been told for years, upon years, upon years that Illium and Aodhan are just brothers? Also, why there has only ever been mention of female lovers for both of them, and not a peep about a single male one? There are many arguments flying around explaining the how and why of Bluebell and Sparkle falling head over heals for each other, but, to the best of my knowledge, people can only fall in love with someone they can be sexually attracted to based on their sexual orientation. (And I am a very firm believer of sexual orientation being something we are born with, and not something we just pick up from one day to the other!) So why has these two been firmly established as 100% heterosexual in every single book up to this point? Just why? What was the point?
This is just plain weird, I personally feel cheated and lied to, and the whole issue is driving me crazy!!!!
I might become a big enough masochist by the time this rolls around and end up subjecting myself to the torture of checking it out - unfortunately for myself I am kinda curious how the overall story develops -, but as of now...
Happy reading for everyone looking forward to it.
21/3/21
A new Guild Hunter book was announced, and so now it's time to pray/hope/guess regarding its content.
Some people fervently pray for Illium and Aodhan finally finding happiness in each other's arms.
Me?
With all due respect to everyone, my prayers go the exact opposite direction. Reading about same sex relationships can be just as wholesome and lovely as reading about straight ones - and on this note, if we do not get to read the whole story of a certain bear and a certain Mercant in the Psy-Changeling universe I will be extremely disappointed -, but Illium and Aodhan specifically ending up together?
I would love to read more about their deep friendship, but I am simply unable to see them as lovers, or force myself to hope for that development to happen.
For one, I do not think there was a single mention of them swinging that way, while they are constantly referred to as being the best of friends. I also seem to remember Nalini Singh being quite adamant about them being only friends just a few years back.
For two, I do not think people must be lovers for them to have an extremely deep and strong relationship, and so I do not think it is necessarily appropriate to instantly jump to conclusions of a great love at the slightest hint of closeness between two characters. Additionally, as I find deep friendships much more rarely depicted, I personally would also find Illium and Aodhan's relationship much more special if they are left as friends, than if they "jump into bed together".
For three, I plain want them to have biological children. Sue me, but as far as I am concerned Illium and Aodhan not passing on their unique and beautiful genes would be tantamount to sacrilege.
For four, Bluebell and Sparkle becoming a couple would mean one more additional book in the series, whereas them falling in love with somebody else than each other would mean two. Sue me again and may even call me a selfish bitch, but I would love to enjoy this series as long as possible, and so I personally would take two additional books over only one any day of the week.
So Illium and Aodhan as a couple?
*Opens up the newsletter a few days ago*
*Sees the cover*
I have a veeeery bad feeling about this...
*Reads the blurb*
I think Nalini Singh is one of the most amazing authors out there, but was it too much to ask from her to either properly establish certain things about her characters from the get go, or, if she wanted to make monumental changes like this after 10+ books, then for her to do so in a spin-off completely separate form the series at hand? (If this was a spin-off, then people who wanted this book would have been just as happy about it, and those who did not could have ignored it without missing anything.) And if she wanted to do this, then why have we been told for years, upon years, upon years that Illium and Aodhan are just brothers? Also, why there has only ever been mention of female lovers for both of them, and not a peep about a single male one? There are many arguments flying around explaining the how and why of Bluebell and Sparkle falling head over heals for each other, but, to the best of my knowledge, people can only fall in love with someone they can be sexually attracted to based on their sexual orientation. (And I am a very firm believer of sexual orientation being something we are born with, and not something we just pick up from one day to the other!) So why has these two been firmly established as 100% heterosexual in every single book up to this point? Just why? What was the point?
This is just plain weird, I personally feel cheated and lied to, and the whole issue is driving me crazy!!!!
I might become a big enough masochist by the time this rolls around and end up subjecting myself to the torture of checking it out - unfortunately for myself I am kinda curious how the overall story develops -, but as of now...
Happy reading for everyone looking forward to it.
21/3/21
A new Guild Hunter book was announced, and so now it's time to pray/hope/guess regarding its content.
Some people fervently pray for Illium and Aodhan finally finding happiness in each other's arms.
Me?
With all due respect to everyone, my prayers go the exact opposite direction. Reading about same sex relationships can be just as wholesome and lovely as reading about straight ones - and on this note, if we do not get to read the whole story of a certain bear and a certain Mercant in the Psy-Changeling universe I will be extremely disappointed -, but Illium and Aodhan specifically ending up together?
I would love to read more about their deep friendship, but I am simply unable to see them as lovers, or force myself to hope for that development to happen.
For one, I do not think there was a single mention of them swinging that way, while they are constantly referred to as being the best of friends. I also seem to remember Nalini Singh being quite adamant about them being only friends just a few years back.
For two, I do not think people must be lovers for them to have an extremely deep and strong relationship, and so I do not think it is necessarily appropriate to instantly jump to conclusions of a great love at the slightest hint of closeness between two characters. Additionally, as I find deep friendships much more rarely depicted, I personally would also find Illium and Aodhan's relationship much more special if they are left as friends, than if they "jump into bed together".
For three, I plain want them to have biological children. Sue me, but as far as I am concerned Illium and Aodhan not passing on their unique and beautiful genes would be tantamount to sacrilege.
For four, Bluebell and Sparkle becoming a couple would mean one more additional book in the series, whereas them falling in love with somebody else than each other would mean two. Sue me again and may even call me a selfish bitch, but I would love to enjoy this series as long as possible, and so I personally would take two additional books over only one any day of the week.
So Illium and Aodhan as a couple?
Want to read
May 28, 2021omg.omg.omg.omg.omg...
It's happening! My letter-writing campaign and spell from the lady under the bridge who calls herself "witchy woman" worked!!!
Aodhan and Illium!
It's happening! My letter-writing campaign and spell from the lady under the bridge who calls herself "witchy woman" worked!!!
Aodhan and Illium!
March 13, 2022
4.5 stars
What can I say that has been already said? Not much really... So I have to reiterate how much I love this authors writing. She pulls you in so subtly, so mesmerizingly, it's frankly like magic to me.
This book is homage to the fans and a homage to Aodhan and Bluebell. To their friendship, to their individual characters, to who they are growing up to be. NS took us through a journey of their lives together and touchingly showed exactly how people grow and lose friendships. I've been there, I've lost friendships because I grew and changed and my so-called friends didn't like that I wasn't in the box they made for me anymore. But here Nalini put their friendship and relationship through it's paces and showed how it can be fixed. And most importantly, transcend into something else that has no labels or boundaries. Just love.
My one complaint is the one I had with the previous book too. We don't to read about them as a couple. I wanted more time with them together! I need more time with them together! And I hope we get another book in the future to read about them being officially together more.
This is a lovely, slow transition of their relationship. So don't expect sexy times when you pick it up or you will be disappointed.. I would have loved some but NS is straddling a line here and she managed to balance it out. After 14+ books I still cannot wait to see what comes next!
25/5/21
Didn't think she would but she did!
21/12/20
So many theories out there for this one. Aodhan and Illium and/or Suyin and here I am wanting more of Titus and Sharine because we didn't get nearly enough of them together in their book.
What can I say that has been already said? Not much really... So I have to reiterate how much I love this authors writing. She pulls you in so subtly, so mesmerizingly, it's frankly like magic to me.
This book is homage to the fans and a homage to Aodhan and Bluebell. To their friendship, to their individual characters, to who they are growing up to be. NS took us through a journey of their lives together and touchingly showed exactly how people grow and lose friendships. I've been there, I've lost friendships because I grew and changed and my so-called friends didn't like that I wasn't in the box they made for me anymore. But here Nalini put their friendship and relationship through it's paces and showed how it can be fixed. And most importantly, transcend into something else that has no labels or boundaries. Just love.
My one complaint is the one I had with the previous book too. We don't to read about them as a couple. I wanted more time with them together! I need more time with them together! And I hope we get another book in the future to read about them being officially together more.
This is a lovely, slow transition of their relationship. So don't expect sexy times when you pick it up or you will be disappointed.. I would have loved some but NS is straddling a line here and she managed to balance it out. After 14+ books I still cannot wait to see what comes next!
25/5/21
Didn't think she would but she did!
21/12/20
So many theories out there for this one. Aodhan and Illium and/or Suyin and here I am wanting more of Titus and Sharine because we didn't get nearly enough of them together in their book.
October 28, 2021
My wait for this book is finally over, and I can officially say it was worth the wait. But first let me back up and say a couple of quick things:
- I was SO OVER this series after reading book #12 because book after book about Lijuan had officially gotten on my every last nerve.
- I was so annoyed in fact that I didn't even bother reading book #13 because I decided this series had worn out of storylines that I wanted to read.
But when I heard this book was going to be about the much awaited relationship between Illium and Aodhan, I put my above feelings aside and immediately read it on it's release date this week. So imagine my surprise/horror when this book's setting was in freaking China, home of freaking Lijuan, the killer of all my joy in this series. I seriously wanted to throw this book across the room. I'm glad I didn't.
This book does and also does not follow the pattern of all the other prior books. Do we get a "case" of sorts for the two main characters to solve? Yes, but it's not the focus at all and has barely any page time. Do we get a romantic relationship between the two characters? Yes, but probably because this is the first m/m book in this series the author chose to keep this story strictly rated PG, thus my tag of a 'clean' romance. What's new with this book is we get a comprehensive look into the past of Illium and Aodhan's friendship starting the first day they meet. For long time readers this does include a lot more information on what exactly happened to Aodhan, and well, it's terrible. But to counteract that awfulness is the joy of getting to view the beginning of a relationship of true love between two men who have such a strong connection and friendship that has spanned hundreds of years. I loved every moment of it.
So will this book make everyone happy? Probably not. First there are the homophobic people who don't want to read an m/m romance - and I won't waste my breath on those people. Then there are the people who enjoy m/m romances and will feel let down by the complete lack of "spice" in this book, especially since every other single book in this series has that spice. And to them I say - fair point. Of course not every romance book has to have "spicy" elements for it to be romance - this is even perhaps the most purely romantic book of the entire series. It just also features zero bedroom scenes. And then there are the people who read this series because they like the whole world building/danger/mystery elements to the plots - and well, those people are going to be disappointed because it's barely a blip on the radar of this book.
But to those of us who have been waiting for this specific pairing and who don't mind a clean romance book - settle in, you're in for a treat. I'm also very hopeful that this is only the beginning of books in this series that will feature this couple. Goodness knows that is the main reason I plan to pick up the next book, whenever it comes out.
- I was SO OVER this series after reading book #12 because book after book about Lijuan had officially gotten on my every last nerve.
- I was so annoyed in fact that I didn't even bother reading book #13 because I decided this series had worn out of storylines that I wanted to read.
But when I heard this book was going to be about the much awaited relationship between Illium and Aodhan, I put my above feelings aside and immediately read it on it's release date this week. So imagine my surprise/horror when this book's setting was in freaking China, home of freaking Lijuan, the killer of all my joy in this series. I seriously wanted to throw this book across the room. I'm glad I didn't.
This book does and also does not follow the pattern of all the other prior books. Do we get a "case" of sorts for the two main characters to solve? Yes, but it's not the focus at all and has barely any page time. Do we get a romantic relationship between the two characters? Yes, but probably because this is the first m/m book in this series the author chose to keep this story strictly rated PG, thus my tag of a 'clean' romance. What's new with this book is we get a comprehensive look into the past of Illium and Aodhan's friendship starting the first day they meet. For long time readers this does include a lot more information on what exactly happened to Aodhan, and well, it's terrible. But to counteract that awfulness is the joy of getting to view the beginning of a relationship of true love between two men who have such a strong connection and friendship that has spanned hundreds of years. I loved every moment of it.
So will this book make everyone happy? Probably not. First there are the homophobic people who don't want to read an m/m romance - and I won't waste my breath on those people. Then there are the people who enjoy m/m romances and will feel let down by the complete lack of "spice" in this book, especially since every other single book in this series has that spice. And to them I say - fair point. Of course not every romance book has to have "spicy" elements for it to be romance - this is even perhaps the most purely romantic book of the entire series. It just also features zero bedroom scenes. And then there are the people who read this series because they like the whole world building/danger/mystery elements to the plots - and well, those people are going to be disappointed because it's barely a blip on the radar of this book.
But to those of us who have been waiting for this specific pairing and who don't mind a clean romance book - settle in, you're in for a treat. I'm also very hopeful that this is only the beginning of books in this series that will feature this couple. Goodness knows that is the main reason I plan to pick up the next book, whenever it comes out.
May 29, 2021
This book splits the readership. There are those who say Nalini cheated on them (because she refused to tell Illium is bisexual), and there are those who noticed something was going on between Aodhan and Illium.
When I read a book I like to use my imagination to create the pictures in my head. I certainly don't need Illium to say: "Hey, you didn't ask, but I wanted to tell you I'm bisexual. Hope that isn't a problem."
Just because a man is into men, doesn't mean he has to be a walking cliche with the attitude and the appearance (though a guy with glitter may count otherwise 🤔).
I'm a crew member of the Sparklebell-ship.
" Life isn't static , and sometimes, we don't realize the value of knowledge or even of people, until farther down the track, when we're mature enough to truly understand ." (Elena in Archangel's Heart)
If this is Aodhan's book, I hope the heroine is not Suyin.
(From Archangel's Sun: Sharine said, "You must understand - for Aodhan, the Seven and Raphael are family, the bonds between them far beyond flesh and bone and blood. It is a thing elemental. Though he'll serve Archangel Suyin with all his heart, he'll always fly home in the end.")
When I read a book I like to use my imagination to create the pictures in my head. I certainly don't need Illium to say: "Hey, you didn't ask, but I wanted to tell you I'm bisexual. Hope that isn't a problem."
Just because a man is into men, doesn't mean he has to be a walking cliche with the attitude and the appearance (though a guy with glitter may count otherwise 🤔).
I'm a crew member of the Sparklebell-ship.
" Life isn't static , and sometimes, we don't realize the value of knowledge or even of people, until farther down the track, when we're mature enough to truly understand ." (Elena in Archangel's Heart)
If this is Aodhan's book, I hope the heroine is not Suyin.
(From Archangel's Sun: Sharine said, "You must understand - for Aodhan, the Seven and Raphael are family, the bonds between them far beyond flesh and bone and blood. It is a thing elemental. Though he'll serve Archangel Suyin with all his heart, he'll always fly home in the end.")
October 30, 2021
UPDATE AFTER BLURB REVEAL:
AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH.
HELL YES IM WAITING FOR iLLIUM X AODHAN!!!! I DONT CARE WHAT ANYBODY SAYS ABOUT THEM BEING BROS THEY ARE SOULMATES AND THATS IT!!!!
On a more serious note now i have to wait till october and i'm D-Y-I-N-G but also super stoked. How am i supposed to focus on university work like this?
Seems like im in the waiting-for-a-ship-to-happen-wagoon all over again. I promised myself i wouldn't do this again but alas...
AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH.
HELL YES IM WAITING FOR iLLIUM X AODHAN!!!! I DONT CARE WHAT ANYBODY SAYS ABOUT THEM BEING BROS THEY ARE SOULMATES AND THATS IT!!!!
On a more serious note now i have to wait till october and i'm D-Y-I-N-G but also super stoked. How am i supposed to focus on university work like this?
Seems like im in the waiting-for-a-ship-to-happen-wagoon all over again. I promised myself i wouldn't do this again but alas...
May 15, 2023
Since I did (skim-)read this following a long struggle, I'm rating it after all. Scroll down for that edit.
May 2021
I can't believe Nalini is actually doing this. I have never been so disappointed in my whole life.
Making Illium and Aodhan fall in love is just so wrong. Theirs was one of the greatest bromances I have ever read, why did she have to take away the B? Their friendship was incredibly precious and strong, they literally grew up together, were as close as brothers (which the description kindly, weirdly mentions too)! It should have stayed that way.
I hate how people start hysterically shipping male characters together whenever their friendship is described as especially close, can't friends ever remain friends? Illium and Aodhan's friendship was extraordinary. They would not be able to top that as a couple.
I can't even imagine them as lovers, they considered each other brothers, for fuck's sake! Pairing them together after this was stressed so often is just gross. Espescially since it was never said that any of them is gay or even bi.
What's even worse is that I trusted Nalini when she firmly demented the speculations about them being gay after Archangel's Legion. I relied on her words and trusted that she wouldn't change her mind to please the crazy shippers. Seeing her do that now is bitter.
The Guild Hunter series has been my absolutely favourite series in the entire world and my constant companion for ten years, filling me with joy with every one of my many rereads and every announcement of a new installment (especially when it's about R&E). But for the first time, I'm not happy. For the first time, the new installment went from can't wait status to maybe. This will forever taint this series for me.
EDIT: Actually, the more I think about it, the less likely even the maybe becomes. I just can't bear the thought of reading it and looking at Illium and Aodhan like this, with romantic and sexual tension between them. So even though I am dying to see R&E cameos and very eager to find out about Aodhan's trauma, I will most certainly skip it.
EDIT 2: Everything I said above (and below) is still valid, but I'm gonna go ahead and say something that I feel needs to be said because no one else dares say it out of fear to be labeled as homophobic (a word said crazy shippers throw around way too freely anyway):
I know there are a lot of straight people that enjoy reading LGBTQ+ romances. But there are also a lot who don't. I am one of those. I don't have anything against, say, gay people because why would I? Someone else's sexual orientation that is different from mine does not affect my life nor does it replace their character or the overall fact that they are a person like you and me. Therefore I am able to like gay or bi side characters in books like Keir or the alphas of Clan Rat and Barabas in the Kate Daniels series just fine. A person's likability, both in books and real life, depends on their character and actions, not their sexual preferences. But I still don't feel any desire to read LGBTQ+ romances (particularly when there is erotica involved). They hold zero appeal for me. And I shouldn't have to justify myself for that.
So yeah, I would still be disgruntled about Illium and Aodhan becoming lovers, even if they would not have been continuously depicted as closer than brothers and even if Nalini would not have emphasized the platonic nature of their relationship a few years ago. Which is why suddenly throwing in an M/M book in an ongoing series that has only ever had F/M pairings is not cool. Especially when there is an overarching plot and certain characters' backgrounds and others' cameos one will miss out on when skipping it.
There is a thing called reading preferences, and someone who prefers LGBTQ+ romances nowadays has a plethora of books to choose from, even series, even fantasy. It's not necessary � or fair to those readers who don't read M/M romances � to demand one within said ongoing series from a (till now) strictly F/M author or, as the author, to suddenly write one within that series, be it out of their own volition or not. It's like suddenly branching out with a new installment of a previously strictly adult series and making it YA. Or inserting a fantasy novel into a previously strictly contemporary series. That's just not the expectation with a series like this. And that's why I and every other disappointed reader have the right to be disappointed and even enraged without anyone trying to convince us otherwise. Just let it be.
EDIT 3: I really, really wish someone who reads the book could mark off all the romantic/erotic scenes and then give it to us readers who aren't enthusiastic about an Illium/Aodhan romance. This way we could read it and avoid those scenes without missing anything.
EDIT 4: So, according to ARC reviewers, the romance part of this book I was dreading doesn't actually start until 93 %. Huh. I may read this book after all for those 93 % of revealed backstories, character cameos and war aftermath � and stop at 93 %. Or even continue to know where those apparently only two kissing scenes are once and for all in order to be able to mark them off with post-its and never come back to them.
Because I realized in the last weeks since this installment's pairing was annouced that, even if we skip this one, Illium and Aodhan will still be portrayed as a couple in passing in the following books, just like we see or hear about Honor and Dmitri, Jason and Mahiya, Ashwini and Janvier or Holly and Venom being together. Yes, that's precisely what I meant when I wrote that this series will forever be tainted for me from now on, but since I'm not willing to completely give up on it and miss out on future (R&E) books, I really don't see how reading about Illium and Aodhan being a couple can be avoided. At least by reading Light and disregarding the romantic scenes, I will not have let this unwelcome pairing deprive me of a part of the story I have been waiting 12 books to find out about. But I'm not 100 % sure if I'll do it yet.
Also, if the first 93 % are really just about their friendship, I can't help but gloatingly add that Nalini apparently wanted to make that pairing happen for the sake of the crazy shippers but didn't actually want to write a M/M romance. The schadenfreude xD
They really ought not have called it "a love story so epic it’s been half a millennia in the making" then.
EDIT 5: Actually, after everything I read about this book so far, I really don't want to read it. I may just read the past chapters to see Illium and Aodhan as kids and a younger Raphael and have a friend tell me what happens in the present chapters when she finally catches up to this installment. And I'm 99 % convinced that there won't be another book about Illium and Aodhan despite Nalini's newsletter saying that this is just the start of their story. She probably deliberately kept their relationship light and superficial in this book to appease the readers who did not ship them and will only write more about them in short stories or a novella.
EDIT 6, November 2022: Well, fuck. I just read in an interview with Nalini that there is actually going to be a second book about Illium and Aodhan. That means they are the only companion couple in this series ever to get more than one book which adds insult to injury and rubs salt in the wound, too.
Concerning is also the possible plot of such a book. Illium literally cannot ascend. He can't. Raphael, the most powerful child ever born, barely survived his ascension when he, becoming the youngest archangel in all of history, ascended at 1000 years of age. So that was a stretch already. Yes, Ilium's father is an Ancient and an archangel, but just one. Raphael's parents were both archangels and his mother an ancient. No way can Illium ascend now. He needs at least 700-1000 more years. Otherwise it would be inconsistent. So what could a second Illium & Aodhan book possibly be about?
By the way, I still have not read Light, nor do I plan to. Instead, after finishing my giant reread of the whole series (unlike as usual only the R&E books) and right before finally reading Resurrection, I will find me an ebook copy of Light and gut it like a fish, only searching for specific names to get the cameos and little moments and the Lijuan aftermath in China without having to linger with the romance. But the past chapters, those I will read.
EDIT 7, January 2023: I got my hands on a free ebook copy and had planned to only devour the past chapters and gut the rest like a fish as mentioned above, but apart from how long that was taking and how impractical it was because I wasn't seeing scenes in chronological order, I ended up skim-reading the whole thing. I say skim because I did my best to skip over their childish fights and the romance bits at the end. But I did indeed read everything else in full detail. (Not putting it down as "read" regardless though because for me skimming parts, which I usually never do, means I didn't fully read a book.)
I read all the past chapters first. I loved them. Illium and Aodhan were adorable as children, and it was a pleasant surprise that quite a few of those chapters were from Sharine's POV. And there was so much Raphael in them! Even better was that five chapters out of the whole book were from his POV, three of them past chapters. Had I known that before, I would've read them earlier. I espescially loved that scene with him deciding the punishment of Aodhan's abusers while they trembled in fear in front of him.
Now to the rest of the book: I had read a lot of reviews after it came out, so I somewhat knew what to expect but Illium and Aodhan's interaction in the majority of present chapters was still ridiculous. Yes, I did my best to skim over their fights, however, I couldn't completely evade them because they were that frequent and sudden. The two of them were fighting like moody pre-teens, and it was not fun. It was annoying.
I was also dreading Illium's interactions with his mortal love's descendant after a lot of people critized that, but thankfully it wasn't as bad as I expected. Still, I have to agree with those who complain that Suyin was reduced to a background character here when we could've been shown so much more of her since this story took place in her territory and Aodhan acted as her second.
And yet I disagree with those who complained about how Kaia, Illium's mortal love, was dealt with. Because I thought the way he reflected on their time together and was ultimately able to let go of her was actually well done. He still held her in high regard and in his memory, as his first love and a defining part of his life, but the realization that theirs was a young and foolish love sounds plausible to me. He was very young then, so it fit.
As for my own expectations that had formed long before I read any reviews, I was fully expecting a confrontation between Aegaeon and Illium, both because we weren't shown their conversation at the end of War and because of how Aegaeon was talking about his son in Sun, but no. Nothing in that regard. Why? I thought he would come crawling back to Illium like he came back to Sharine, eager to reconnect and believing himself convincing. Or at least give us a flashback to their conversation in War. But alas, they only ever interacted in the past chapters. How disappointing.
Plus, there were no thoughts from present Aodhan about his parents and his nephew, also rather weird.
Finally, the plot itself was laughable. Literally nothing happened. Suyin and her people conveniently leave the area early to go build an all new stronghold free of Lijuan's shadow somewhere else, Illium and Aodhan stay to have a look at a strange village, and they find something Lijuan left behind. That's it. No action, no danger, no suspenseful showdown, nothing at all. And yet 35 out of 52 chapters were about the present and the overarching "plot".
What plot? The little that happened was in no way deserving of a whole book, it could have been a novella. I actually had to check how many pages the paperback has and was shocked to discover that the answer is 391. That's longer than Legion. Scratch that, that's longer than any other book in the series except for War. How? I'm not joking, nothing happened. And other readers are right, the "plot" does feel a bit like a repeat of Sun. Only that Sun thrived on the romance and there they worked on the overall task to rid Africa of the reborn. Here everything fell flat. But then again, maybe the plot was non-existent on purpose, because Nalini knew that a large chunk of readers would skip this installment.
I questioned myself a million times when I started gutting the ebook, doubted over and over if it wouldn't be simply easier to just read it all and get it over with to thouroughly mark off the good parts once and for all. Plus, it would be definitely more efficient to read the whole book within a couple of days than spend weeks gutting it bit by bit. But for days, I refused. I didn't want to see the fighting and the romance bits. What made me change my mind was the realization that I wasn't exactly getting around them completely anyway. And now that I read it after being filled with rage about this pairing for more than one and a half years, I can safely say that the best parts about this are the five chapters from Raphael's POV, the past chapters and the random flashback scenes with the others in his Seven. Those were great. Those were among the treasured little things I mourned before.
But ultimately this book is still the biggest disappointment of my life, and I'm not even exaggerating there. Way to ruin a part of my favorite series in the whole world.
At least I can finally read Resurrection now. And since I have all the good parts marked off, I'll follow the advice of a good friend and create my own ebook out of them, basically this book but strictly without the romance bits and the childish fighting. And the anger-inducing cover.
But the worst thing is still the news of a second Illium and Aodhan book coming. I could've swallowed this one, especially since the romance was so scarce and the plot laughable, making it thus easy for me to create the above mentioned document without the unwelcome elements. But another book? To deepen their relationship and do who knows what plot-wise? I guess there can be an event bigger disappointment than Light after all.
May 2021
I can't believe Nalini is actually doing this. I have never been so disappointed in my whole life.
Making Illium and Aodhan fall in love is just so wrong. Theirs was one of the greatest bromances I have ever read, why did she have to take away the B? Their friendship was incredibly precious and strong, they literally grew up together, were as close as brothers (which the description kindly, weirdly mentions too)! It should have stayed that way.
I hate how people start hysterically shipping male characters together whenever their friendship is described as especially close, can't friends ever remain friends? Illium and Aodhan's friendship was extraordinary. They would not be able to top that as a couple.
I can't even imagine them as lovers, they considered each other brothers, for fuck's sake! Pairing them together after this was stressed so often is just gross. Espescially since it was never said that any of them is gay or even bi.
What's even worse is that I trusted Nalini when she firmly demented the speculations about them being gay after Archangel's Legion. I relied on her words and trusted that she wouldn't change her mind to please the crazy shippers. Seeing her do that now is bitter.
The Guild Hunter series has been my absolutely favourite series in the entire world and my constant companion for ten years, filling me with joy with every one of my many rereads and every announcement of a new installment (especially when it's about R&E). But for the first time, I'm not happy. For the first time, the new installment went from can't wait status to maybe. This will forever taint this series for me.
EDIT: Actually, the more I think about it, the less likely even the maybe becomes. I just can't bear the thought of reading it and looking at Illium and Aodhan like this, with romantic and sexual tension between them. So even though I am dying to see R&E cameos and very eager to find out about Aodhan's trauma, I will most certainly skip it.
EDIT 2: Everything I said above (and below) is still valid, but I'm gonna go ahead and say something that I feel needs to be said because no one else dares say it out of fear to be labeled as homophobic (a word said crazy shippers throw around way too freely anyway):
I know there are a lot of straight people that enjoy reading LGBTQ+ romances. But there are also a lot who don't. I am one of those. I don't have anything against, say, gay people because why would I? Someone else's sexual orientation that is different from mine does not affect my life nor does it replace their character or the overall fact that they are a person like you and me. Therefore I am able to like gay or bi side characters in books like Keir or the alphas of Clan Rat and Barabas in the Kate Daniels series just fine. A person's likability, both in books and real life, depends on their character and actions, not their sexual preferences. But I still don't feel any desire to read LGBTQ+ romances (particularly when there is erotica involved). They hold zero appeal for me. And I shouldn't have to justify myself for that.
So yeah, I would still be disgruntled about Illium and Aodhan becoming lovers, even if they would not have been continuously depicted as closer than brothers and even if Nalini would not have emphasized the platonic nature of their relationship a few years ago. Which is why suddenly throwing in an M/M book in an ongoing series that has only ever had F/M pairings is not cool. Especially when there is an overarching plot and certain characters' backgrounds and others' cameos one will miss out on when skipping it.
There is a thing called reading preferences, and someone who prefers LGBTQ+ romances nowadays has a plethora of books to choose from, even series, even fantasy. It's not necessary � or fair to those readers who don't read M/M romances � to demand one within said ongoing series from a (till now) strictly F/M author or, as the author, to suddenly write one within that series, be it out of their own volition or not. It's like suddenly branching out with a new installment of a previously strictly adult series and making it YA. Or inserting a fantasy novel into a previously strictly contemporary series. That's just not the expectation with a series like this. And that's why I and every other disappointed reader have the right to be disappointed and even enraged without anyone trying to convince us otherwise. Just let it be.
EDIT 3: I really, really wish someone who reads the book could mark off all the romantic/erotic scenes and then give it to us readers who aren't enthusiastic about an Illium/Aodhan romance. This way we could read it and avoid those scenes without missing anything.
EDIT 4: So, according to ARC reviewers, the romance part of this book I was dreading doesn't actually start until 93 %. Huh. I may read this book after all for those 93 % of revealed backstories, character cameos and war aftermath � and stop at 93 %. Or even continue to know where those apparently only two kissing scenes are once and for all in order to be able to mark them off with post-its and never come back to them.
Because I realized in the last weeks since this installment's pairing was annouced that, even if we skip this one, Illium and Aodhan will still be portrayed as a couple in passing in the following books, just like we see or hear about Honor and Dmitri, Jason and Mahiya, Ashwini and Janvier or Holly and Venom being together. Yes, that's precisely what I meant when I wrote that this series will forever be tainted for me from now on, but since I'm not willing to completely give up on it and miss out on future (R&E) books, I really don't see how reading about Illium and Aodhan being a couple can be avoided. At least by reading Light and disregarding the romantic scenes, I will not have let this unwelcome pairing deprive me of a part of the story I have been waiting 12 books to find out about. But I'm not 100 % sure if I'll do it yet.
Also, if the first 93 % are really just about their friendship, I can't help but gloatingly add that Nalini apparently wanted to make that pairing happen for the sake of the crazy shippers but didn't actually want to write a M/M romance. The schadenfreude xD
They really ought not have called it "a love story so epic it’s been half a millennia in the making" then.
EDIT 5: Actually, after everything I read about this book so far, I really don't want to read it. I may just read the past chapters to see Illium and Aodhan as kids and a younger Raphael and have a friend tell me what happens in the present chapters when she finally catches up to this installment. And I'm 99 % convinced that there won't be another book about Illium and Aodhan despite Nalini's newsletter saying that this is just the start of their story. She probably deliberately kept their relationship light and superficial in this book to appease the readers who did not ship them and will only write more about them in short stories or a novella.
EDIT 6, November 2022: Well, fuck. I just read in an interview with Nalini that there is actually going to be a second book about Illium and Aodhan. That means they are the only companion couple in this series ever to get more than one book which adds insult to injury and rubs salt in the wound, too.
Concerning is also the possible plot of such a book. Illium literally cannot ascend. He can't. Raphael, the most powerful child ever born, barely survived his ascension when he, becoming the youngest archangel in all of history, ascended at 1000 years of age. So that was a stretch already. Yes, Ilium's father is an Ancient and an archangel, but just one. Raphael's parents were both archangels and his mother an ancient. No way can Illium ascend now. He needs at least 700-1000 more years. Otherwise it would be inconsistent. So what could a second Illium & Aodhan book possibly be about?
By the way, I still have not read Light, nor do I plan to. Instead, after finishing my giant reread of the whole series (unlike as usual only the R&E books) and right before finally reading Resurrection, I will find me an ebook copy of Light and gut it like a fish, only searching for specific names to get the cameos and little moments and the Lijuan aftermath in China without having to linger with the romance. But the past chapters, those I will read.
EDIT 7, January 2023: I got my hands on a free ebook copy and had planned to only devour the past chapters and gut the rest like a fish as mentioned above, but apart from how long that was taking and how impractical it was because I wasn't seeing scenes in chronological order, I ended up skim-reading the whole thing. I say skim because I did my best to skip over their childish fights and the romance bits at the end. But I did indeed read everything else in full detail. (Not putting it down as "read" regardless though because for me skimming parts, which I usually never do, means I didn't fully read a book.)
I read all the past chapters first. I loved them. Illium and Aodhan were adorable as children, and it was a pleasant surprise that quite a few of those chapters were from Sharine's POV. And there was so much Raphael in them! Even better was that five chapters out of the whole book were from his POV, three of them past chapters. Had I known that before, I would've read them earlier. I espescially loved that scene with him deciding the punishment of Aodhan's abusers while they trembled in fear in front of him.
Now to the rest of the book: I had read a lot of reviews after it came out, so I somewhat knew what to expect but Illium and Aodhan's interaction in the majority of present chapters was still ridiculous. Yes, I did my best to skim over their fights, however, I couldn't completely evade them because they were that frequent and sudden. The two of them were fighting like moody pre-teens, and it was not fun. It was annoying.
I was also dreading Illium's interactions with his mortal love's descendant after a lot of people critized that, but thankfully it wasn't as bad as I expected. Still, I have to agree with those who complain that Suyin was reduced to a background character here when we could've been shown so much more of her since this story took place in her territory and Aodhan acted as her second.
And yet I disagree with those who complained about how Kaia, Illium's mortal love, was dealt with. Because I thought the way he reflected on their time together and was ultimately able to let go of her was actually well done. He still held her in high regard and in his memory, as his first love and a defining part of his life, but the realization that theirs was a young and foolish love sounds plausible to me. He was very young then, so it fit.
As for my own expectations that had formed long before I read any reviews, I was fully expecting a confrontation between Aegaeon and Illium, both because we weren't shown their conversation at the end of War and because of how Aegaeon was talking about his son in Sun, but no. Nothing in that regard. Why? I thought he would come crawling back to Illium like he came back to Sharine, eager to reconnect and believing himself convincing. Or at least give us a flashback to their conversation in War. But alas, they only ever interacted in the past chapters. How disappointing.
Plus, there were no thoughts from present Aodhan about his parents and his nephew, also rather weird.
Finally, the plot itself was laughable. Literally nothing happened. Suyin and her people conveniently leave the area early to go build an all new stronghold free of Lijuan's shadow somewhere else, Illium and Aodhan stay to have a look at a strange village, and they find something Lijuan left behind. That's it. No action, no danger, no suspenseful showdown, nothing at all. And yet 35 out of 52 chapters were about the present and the overarching "plot".
What plot? The little that happened was in no way deserving of a whole book, it could have been a novella. I actually had to check how many pages the paperback has and was shocked to discover that the answer is 391. That's longer than Legion. Scratch that, that's longer than any other book in the series except for War. How? I'm not joking, nothing happened. And other readers are right, the "plot" does feel a bit like a repeat of Sun. Only that Sun thrived on the romance and there they worked on the overall task to rid Africa of the reborn. Here everything fell flat. But then again, maybe the plot was non-existent on purpose, because Nalini knew that a large chunk of readers would skip this installment.
I questioned myself a million times when I started gutting the ebook, doubted over and over if it wouldn't be simply easier to just read it all and get it over with to thouroughly mark off the good parts once and for all. Plus, it would be definitely more efficient to read the whole book within a couple of days than spend weeks gutting it bit by bit. But for days, I refused. I didn't want to see the fighting and the romance bits. What made me change my mind was the realization that I wasn't exactly getting around them completely anyway. And now that I read it after being filled with rage about this pairing for more than one and a half years, I can safely say that the best parts about this are the five chapters from Raphael's POV, the past chapters and the random flashback scenes with the others in his Seven. Those were great. Those were among the treasured little things I mourned before.
But ultimately this book is still the biggest disappointment of my life, and I'm not even exaggerating there. Way to ruin a part of my favorite series in the whole world.
At least I can finally read Resurrection now. And since I have all the good parts marked off, I'll follow the advice of a good friend and create my own ebook out of them, basically this book but strictly without the romance bits and the childish fighting. And the anger-inducing cover.
But the worst thing is still the news of a second Illium and Aodhan book coming. I could've swallowed this one, especially since the romance was so scarce and the plot laughable, making it thus easy for me to create the above mentioned document without the unwelcome elements. But another book? To deepen their relationship and do who knows what plot-wise? I guess there can be an event bigger disappointment than Light after all.
October 29, 2021
Update: Original review posted at
Angela: I remember a couple of years ago when Bluebell and Sparkle started having their spats and disagreements and there seemed to be something afoot with their relationship. Like this author was setting something up for later in the series for them to have this big, wonderful romance and I can tell you right now I was HERE FOR IT. Every review after that ended with Bluebell + Sparkle 4eva. Every new book seemed to have more foreshadowing and it got me even more excited. Then came the announcement of Archangel’s Light and the cover was released�
…big shouts of excitement and glee. Yes, yes! Thank you!
But honestly, I had no idea what I really wanted this book to look and feel like. I wasn’t sure how this author would choose to tell their story. But I shouldn’t have worried, Ms. Singh does this couple justice, with an alternating timeline storytelling style that takes readers back to special moments in their long history together, while also bringing them back together in the present day. And I Ioved it.
Melinda: I was right there with Angela and her feeling of something just a little different with their relationship among Raphael’s Seven. It seemed to me that every mention of Aodhan and Illium came with a caveat that there was a special bond, that was more than friendship. And every single book, at every single mention of the two of them I would highlight those mentions like�, is this just me reading into them!? I got the chance to speak to Nalini in 2019 for an interview and she, of course, sidestepped the question like any good author would but did say that she got more questions about this pairing than any other, in any series so I knew I wasn’t alone!
I had faith that she would do their romance justice because my motto is ‘In Nalini I trust� but I truly loved this book. I think readers who’ve been waiting and hoping for this pairing will be delighted and so will ones who are more hesitant and unsure of what to expect with their romance.
Melanie: I have the unique experience of coming to this series much later than Melinda and Angela. I basically binged the first 12 books over the course of 6 months starting in September of 2019 and ending in February of 2020. And in doing that, it was very apparent to me how beautifully Nalini laid the groundwork for the pairing in this book. I remember messaging Melinda repeatedly, asking her, “tell me Sparkle and Bluebell are endgame!!� The best she had to offer was that I was not alone in wishing for this and every single book I read, I would be on the lookout for Sparkle and Bluebell scenes, convinced that Nalini was teasing and torturing us, and yet, I had hope because, like Melinda, “in Nalini I trust.�
Archangel’s Light is the payoff for that trust, the long-awaited book about two best friends, who over the course of about half a millennium, have survived untold tragedies and heartbreak and loss, and throughout it all, faithfully had each other’s backs, sometimes literally, always figuratively. In this, the 14th book of this epic series, she finally goes where so many of her fans have been fervently wishing for. When the cover and blurb were announced, all 3 of us were excited beyond belief, and I’m thrilled to report that this book not just lived up to, but exceeded every expectation.
Angela: I have so many quotes highlighted, but I think this is my favorite and encompasses this couple and their centuries-long connection:
When the book opens Aodhan is still in China with the new Archangel, helping her clean up the mess left by Lijuan. He is serving as her second, but Raphael, knowing that he is considering staying in that position, sends the man who Aodhan trusts more than any other in the world to help him. (devious, devious Raphael).
Then the story goes back in time to little Blue and little Ado, to how they met. Readers will finally see their instant connection. These were my favorite parts of the book, seeing this couple establish their relationship, watching them be there for each other, witnessing the hurt, the pain, the triumphs. Bright, energetic Bluebell and quiet, artistic Sparkle. I’ve said it before, this type of storytelling style really works for me, it keeps me on my toes and deeply engaged. I read this book in one day and have zero regrets.
Melinda: The reason I think this book and their story in particular worked so well is how Nalini chose to tell it. We get their story in alternating timelines, between the present with Suyin, the Archangel they’re helping, and in different glimpses of their past. This was particularly masterful because the world of Guild Hunters is always violent and rather horrific in areas, and this book is no different. In cleaning up after Lijuan we get to see the disaster she left her area in, and of course, uncover new horrors. So by alternating timelines, we get to have some space from some of the…more sickening discoveries.
And in the timeline of the past, we get those beautiful touchstones of Illium and Aodhan’s relationship. What I loved is that not all of these points in time were even particularly meaningful, some were just brief glimpses of either the two of them together or conversations they had regarding the other. Archangel’s Light felt like the ultimate culmination of their relationship, slowly peeling back, layer by layer, the decades of hurt and misunderstanding between the two friends and how they’ve reached this point. Nalini’s masterful care with this led to the slowest of burns in this book.
Melanie: The alternating timeline was a beautiful device, giving us glimpses of yesterday, which takes us to the past, and today, which brings us to the present. Under this device, we get to see snapshots of Illium and Aodhan as they were but also what happened to make them who they are now and how their relationship grew and then faltered. From the very first moment they meet, the key facets of their personalities are made clear, from Illium’s gregarious, never-met-a-stranger nature, to Aodhan’s more reserved, wary manners.
Also helpful in telling this story is the fact that we don’t get shortchanged by the POVs either. We get inside both Aodhan and Illium’s thoughts, their desires and fears and anger towards each other explained to the reader with great clarity. And while they’re definitely off balance when this book reunites them in China, their long-lasting friendship at a great turning point, these are two angels who have always seen each other for exactly who they are, scars and all.
While the above quote doesn’t come from either Aodhan or Illium, it is a perfect encapsulation of them and the progression of their relationship, one that is rooted in deep friendship and has slowly, over half a millennium, grown to mean so much more.
Angela- Alongside this romance is the main series plot of a world healing after the terrible violence of war between an evil Archangel and the rest of Cadre. There are still so many unknown variables and a new Archangel of China has ascended to rebuild and lead her territory. Aodhan is acting as her temporary Second and Illium has been sent by Raphael to assist.
Lijuan might be gone, but she has left some nasty surprises behind. I think readers will be caught off guard by the introduction of a new character and what he might mean for the plot arc going forward. I know I was.
As Illium and Aodhan are working together to support Suyin, helping her establish a new court, and weeding out the remaining danger in the area, they are also coming back together slowly. At first so polite, still so hurt over past perceived slights and misunderstandings about behavior, exhibiting small jealousies, then moving on to arguments and eventually heart-to-heart talks. Through it all readers can feel their chemistry and dedication to each other. I liked the contrast of a broken territory reestablishing itself into something new and better with this couple doing the same.
There might not be a lot of heat in this book, but there is a heck of a lot of heart.
Melinda: Okay, just to talk about the overall series arc of cleanup of Suyin’s territory for a second, the descriptions in this book reminded me of just how vivid Nalini can be with horror and gore. Which is another reason why her thrillers worked so well! The ghost of Lijuan was felt throughout this book, although since this is paranormal I should emphasize this ghost is metaphorical lol. I didn’t think I could be surprised with some of the actions Lijuan had taken but of course, I was shocked at some of their discoveries.
And the lack of heat is so interesting to me because as this romance is the ultimate slow burn and it’s built up over the last 14 books and half a millennium we’re all basically ready to burst! Instead what we get is this trickle of memories, sweet gestures, and meaningful glances � all interspersed with their fights and hurt feelings. And that sounds like a negative thing! But somehow it just all comes together to make the sweetest HFN for them and leave us wanting more.
Melanie: Oof, Lijuan truly is the gift that won’t stop giving (gifts that NOBODY wants). The little surprises she’s left behind are horrifying and one of them is a major reveal that will no doubt cause major ripple effects in the coming books. It’s interesting to note that usually these books contain a lot of graphic violence and are really dark. But this book, in particular, the violence all stems from things that happen in the past that reveal themselves to us (and in some cases to Aodhan and Illium) long after they actually happened.
We finally get answers to what happened to Aodhan that caused him to retreat for so long. And let me warn you, it’s dark and brutal and heartbreaking and the brilliance of Nalini means it’s handled in a way that is sensitive to both the characters and to the readers. I don’t want to give too much away but just be aware, this book may not have present-day violence but it still does go to some very, very dark places.
That being said, it absolutely makes sense that Aodhan and Illium don’t just jump into the physical aspect of their relationship. After all, it took them half a millennium to grow into who they are and also into their feelings and accept that their bond is much deeper than a long abiding friendship. So, it stands to reason that they would take their time developing this new facet of their relationship, especially given Aodhan’s backstory. (Though, please, Nalini, don’t make US wait half a millennium for this next step to happen � we’re mere mortals and don’t have that kind of time, thanks!). They’re both nervous about this huge step they’re taking that will fundamentally change their relationship but Illium puts it best.
In parsing the relationship out in this way (truly over the course of the whole series really), Nalini has given us a romance that is tender and sweet, poignant and at times, painful, and ultimately, more than worth the wait.
Angela: All in all, this book is EXACTLY what I hoped for when I found out all my wishes had come true and these two would be getting their own romance. Another reason why Nalini Singh remains at the very top of my auto-buy list, she just dazzles me with every new release. Archangel’s Light is so well done, all at once moving the series plot arc forward, while taking readers on a journey through the past and building a believable romance between two beloved characters in the present. I am so happy with Bluebell and Sparkle’s HFN, but I also can not wait to see them again. Thank you.
P.S. I’m ready for the next step in this couple’s relationship. BRING ON THE FIRE!
Final Grade- A
__________________________________
The BEST cover and blurb of the year. I've been 100% Bluebell + Sparkle 4ever going on 7 books now and the news that they were FINALLY getting their love story and HEA has me over the moon excited. THANK YOU NALINI SINGH.
Also...
1) This is not a step-brother romance. Stop saying it is.
2) This has been foreshadowed since book 7, I went back and looked at my reviews to see when I first had the inkling that they were "more".
3) Bisexual people exist. They also exist in this world.
Angela: I remember a couple of years ago when Bluebell and Sparkle started having their spats and disagreements and there seemed to be something afoot with their relationship. Like this author was setting something up for later in the series for them to have this big, wonderful romance and I can tell you right now I was HERE FOR IT. Every review after that ended with Bluebell + Sparkle 4eva. Every new book seemed to have more foreshadowing and it got me even more excited. Then came the announcement of Archangel’s Light and the cover was released�
…big shouts of excitement and glee. Yes, yes! Thank you!
But honestly, I had no idea what I really wanted this book to look and feel like. I wasn’t sure how this author would choose to tell their story. But I shouldn’t have worried, Ms. Singh does this couple justice, with an alternating timeline storytelling style that takes readers back to special moments in their long history together, while also bringing them back together in the present day. And I Ioved it.
Melinda: I was right there with Angela and her feeling of something just a little different with their relationship among Raphael’s Seven. It seemed to me that every mention of Aodhan and Illium came with a caveat that there was a special bond, that was more than friendship. And every single book, at every single mention of the two of them I would highlight those mentions like�, is this just me reading into them!? I got the chance to speak to Nalini in 2019 for an interview and she, of course, sidestepped the question like any good author would but did say that she got more questions about this pairing than any other, in any series so I knew I wasn’t alone!
I had faith that she would do their romance justice because my motto is ‘In Nalini I trust� but I truly loved this book. I think readers who’ve been waiting and hoping for this pairing will be delighted and so will ones who are more hesitant and unsure of what to expect with their romance.
Melanie: I have the unique experience of coming to this series much later than Melinda and Angela. I basically binged the first 12 books over the course of 6 months starting in September of 2019 and ending in February of 2020. And in doing that, it was very apparent to me how beautifully Nalini laid the groundwork for the pairing in this book. I remember messaging Melinda repeatedly, asking her, “tell me Sparkle and Bluebell are endgame!!� The best she had to offer was that I was not alone in wishing for this and every single book I read, I would be on the lookout for Sparkle and Bluebell scenes, convinced that Nalini was teasing and torturing us, and yet, I had hope because, like Melinda, “in Nalini I trust.�
Archangel’s Light is the payoff for that trust, the long-awaited book about two best friends, who over the course of about half a millennium, have survived untold tragedies and heartbreak and loss, and throughout it all, faithfully had each other’s backs, sometimes literally, always figuratively. In this, the 14th book of this epic series, she finally goes where so many of her fans have been fervently wishing for. When the cover and blurb were announced, all 3 of us were excited beyond belief, and I’m thrilled to report that this book not just lived up to, but exceeded every expectation.
Angela: I have so many quotes highlighted, but I think this is my favorite and encompasses this couple and their centuries-long connection:
“He is the deep, boundless ocean to your tumultuous storm,� his mother had said to Illium once, her smile wide. “He anchors you and you take him flying.�
When the book opens Aodhan is still in China with the new Archangel, helping her clean up the mess left by Lijuan. He is serving as her second, but Raphael, knowing that he is considering staying in that position, sends the man who Aodhan trusts more than any other in the world to help him. (devious, devious Raphael).
Then the story goes back in time to little Blue and little Ado, to how they met. Readers will finally see their instant connection. These were my favorite parts of the book, seeing this couple establish their relationship, watching them be there for each other, witnessing the hurt, the pain, the triumphs. Bright, energetic Bluebell and quiet, artistic Sparkle. I’ve said it before, this type of storytelling style really works for me, it keeps me on my toes and deeply engaged. I read this book in one day and have zero regrets.
Melinda: The reason I think this book and their story in particular worked so well is how Nalini chose to tell it. We get their story in alternating timelines, between the present with Suyin, the Archangel they’re helping, and in different glimpses of their past. This was particularly masterful because the world of Guild Hunters is always violent and rather horrific in areas, and this book is no different. In cleaning up after Lijuan we get to see the disaster she left her area in, and of course, uncover new horrors. So by alternating timelines, we get to have some space from some of the…more sickening discoveries.
And in the timeline of the past, we get those beautiful touchstones of Illium and Aodhan’s relationship. What I loved is that not all of these points in time were even particularly meaningful, some were just brief glimpses of either the two of them together or conversations they had regarding the other. Archangel’s Light felt like the ultimate culmination of their relationship, slowly peeling back, layer by layer, the decades of hurt and misunderstanding between the two friends and how they’ve reached this point. Nalini’s masterful care with this led to the slowest of burns in this book.
“Sometimes, Aodhan said at last, I feel like I’m pretending to be the person that you want me to be.�
Melanie: The alternating timeline was a beautiful device, giving us glimpses of yesterday, which takes us to the past, and today, which brings us to the present. Under this device, we get to see snapshots of Illium and Aodhan as they were but also what happened to make them who they are now and how their relationship grew and then faltered. From the very first moment they meet, the key facets of their personalities are made clear, from Illium’s gregarious, never-met-a-stranger nature, to Aodhan’s more reserved, wary manners.
Also helpful in telling this story is the fact that we don’t get shortchanged by the POVs either. We get inside both Aodhan and Illium’s thoughts, their desires and fears and anger towards each other explained to the reader with great clarity. And while they’re definitely off balance when this book reunites them in China, their long-lasting friendship at a great turning point, these are two angels who have always seen each other for exactly who they are, scars and all.
“To know a person’s bad habits along with their good ones? To see them at their worst and at their best? To fight and play with them through all the seasons of this life? And to still wake up every morning happy to see their face? This is love.�
While the above quote doesn’t come from either Aodhan or Illium, it is a perfect encapsulation of them and the progression of their relationship, one that is rooted in deep friendship and has slowly, over half a millennium, grown to mean so much more.
Angela- Alongside this romance is the main series plot of a world healing after the terrible violence of war between an evil Archangel and the rest of Cadre. There are still so many unknown variables and a new Archangel of China has ascended to rebuild and lead her territory. Aodhan is acting as her temporary Second and Illium has been sent by Raphael to assist.
Lijuan might be gone, but she has left some nasty surprises behind. I think readers will be caught off guard by the introduction of a new character and what he might mean for the plot arc going forward. I know I was.
As Illium and Aodhan are working together to support Suyin, helping her establish a new court, and weeding out the remaining danger in the area, they are also coming back together slowly. At first so polite, still so hurt over past perceived slights and misunderstandings about behavior, exhibiting small jealousies, then moving on to arguments and eventually heart-to-heart talks. Through it all readers can feel their chemistry and dedication to each other. I liked the contrast of a broken territory reestablishing itself into something new and better with this couple doing the same.
There might not be a lot of heat in this book, but there is a heck of a lot of heart.
Melinda: Okay, just to talk about the overall series arc of cleanup of Suyin’s territory for a second, the descriptions in this book reminded me of just how vivid Nalini can be with horror and gore. Which is another reason why her thrillers worked so well! The ghost of Lijuan was felt throughout this book, although since this is paranormal I should emphasize this ghost is metaphorical lol. I didn’t think I could be surprised with some of the actions Lijuan had taken but of course, I was shocked at some of their discoveries.
And the lack of heat is so interesting to me because as this romance is the ultimate slow burn and it’s built up over the last 14 books and half a millennium we’re all basically ready to burst! Instead what we get is this trickle of memories, sweet gestures, and meaningful glances � all interspersed with their fights and hurt feelings. And that sounds like a negative thing! But somehow it just all comes together to make the sweetest HFN for them and leave us wanting more.
Melanie: Oof, Lijuan truly is the gift that won’t stop giving (gifts that NOBODY wants). The little surprises she’s left behind are horrifying and one of them is a major reveal that will no doubt cause major ripple effects in the coming books. It’s interesting to note that usually these books contain a lot of graphic violence and are really dark. But this book, in particular, the violence all stems from things that happen in the past that reveal themselves to us (and in some cases to Aodhan and Illium) long after they actually happened.
We finally get answers to what happened to Aodhan that caused him to retreat for so long. And let me warn you, it’s dark and brutal and heartbreaking and the brilliance of Nalini means it’s handled in a way that is sensitive to both the characters and to the readers. I don’t want to give too much away but just be aware, this book may not have present-day violence but it still does go to some very, very dark places.
That being said, it absolutely makes sense that Aodhan and Illium don’t just jump into the physical aspect of their relationship. After all, it took them half a millennium to grow into who they are and also into their feelings and accept that their bond is much deeper than a long abiding friendship. So, it stands to reason that they would take their time developing this new facet of their relationship, especially given Aodhan’s backstory. (Though, please, Nalini, don’t make US wait half a millennium for this next step to happen � we’re mere mortals and don’t have that kind of time, thanks!). They’re both nervous about this huge step they’re taking that will fundamentally change their relationship but Illium puts it best.
“I’m still fucking petrified we’ll screw this up. But I’d rather screw things up with you than get it right with anyone else.�
In parsing the relationship out in this way (truly over the course of the whole series really), Nalini has given us a romance that is tender and sweet, poignant and at times, painful, and ultimately, more than worth the wait.
Angela: All in all, this book is EXACTLY what I hoped for when I found out all my wishes had come true and these two would be getting their own romance. Another reason why Nalini Singh remains at the very top of my auto-buy list, she just dazzles me with every new release. Archangel’s Light is so well done, all at once moving the series plot arc forward, while taking readers on a journey through the past and building a believable romance between two beloved characters in the present. I am so happy with Bluebell and Sparkle’s HFN, but I also can not wait to see them again. Thank you.
P.S. I’m ready for the next step in this couple’s relationship. BRING ON THE FIRE!
Final Grade- A
__________________________________
The BEST cover and blurb of the year. I've been 100% Bluebell + Sparkle 4ever going on 7 books now and the news that they were FINALLY getting their love story and HEA has me over the moon excited. THANK YOU NALINI SINGH.
Also...
1) This is not a step-brother romance. Stop saying it is.
2) This has been foreshadowed since book 7, I went back and looked at my reviews to see when I first had the inkling that they were "more".
3) Bisexual people exist. They also exist in this world.
October 31, 2021
Ok where do I start? Besides the fact that for me this book is 5 STARS AND BEYOND?!?
Ok calm now, let's start with this kind of review.
This book is what I have been waiting for years, what I have always hoped for.
I always knew that for Illium and Aodhan there could be no one else. I have always seen their bond much deeper to be regarded as simply friendship.
What gave me hope was from this moment happened in Archangel's Enigma:
"The twenty-three months Aodhan had been missing had been the most horrific period of Illium's life... worse than when he'd lost his mortal lover. He'd survived losing her. He didn't know if he could survive losing Aodhan.
Never before had he seen that truth so clearly and it shook him."
THAT MOMENT was the endgame for me.
How did people not see it? How they say that their couple was out of nowhere? Have you really read the books? Y'all need a reread fast.
I loved this book from start to finish, I just wanted it to be LONGER, because compared to the other books in the series, their bond is already consolidated, it doesn't have to form like the other couples, it just evolved. So this book is their reconciliation after all the misunderstandings. (bcs they are 2 dorks imo)
I loved the flashbacks from the past, where it shows the beginning of their friendship, how they met and what happened to Aodhan. (I cried my eyes out in the chapter when they found him 😭 😭)
The presence of the descendant of Kaia (Illium's mortal love), whose name is Kai, left me completely indifferent about it, for me her role was so marginal, that it did not create the triangle that some feared, but at least it served to make Illium understand that he must overcome his past love.
So bye bye Kai we won't miss you, close the door when you leave.👋
After reading the book I thought that it was weird that there was not even an "I love you" said so explicitly from them to each other. Am I the only one thinking of it? I also understand that their relationship is so deep that those three words are superfluous, but I would have liked to read it, that's it.
And finally I have to say it. WHAT I READ IS NOT ENOUGH, I WANT AT LEAST ANOTHER BOOK ABOUT THEM.
I think I understand what our beloved Nalini did: She wanted to test the waters with this couple, slowly introducing the first m/m couple of the series, without sex scenes, (even if that scene in front of the bonfire made me throw my poor Kobo) in order to prepare the most reluctant classic readers.
Okay, never mind, I've waited so long for Sparklebell, that they could have happily knitted in front of the fireplace for 300 pages and it would have been book of the year for me anyway.
We have time for further developments of that kind. (͡ ° ͜ʖ ͡ °)
P.S: Possessive Aodhan is superior * _ *
Forgive my english mistakes, I don't even know how I wrote all of this after reading the book of my life 😭 😭
Thank you Nalini. ❤️❤️
Ok calm now, let's start with this kind of review.
This book is what I have been waiting for years, what I have always hoped for.
I always knew that for Illium and Aodhan there could be no one else. I have always seen their bond much deeper to be regarded as simply friendship.
What gave me hope was from this moment happened in Archangel's Enigma:
"The twenty-three months Aodhan had been missing had been the most horrific period of Illium's life... worse than when he'd lost his mortal lover. He'd survived losing her. He didn't know if he could survive losing Aodhan.
Never before had he seen that truth so clearly and it shook him."
THAT MOMENT was the endgame for me.
How did people not see it? How they say that their couple was out of nowhere? Have you really read the books? Y'all need a reread fast.
I loved this book from start to finish, I just wanted it to be LONGER, because compared to the other books in the series, their bond is already consolidated, it doesn't have to form like the other couples, it just evolved. So this book is their reconciliation after all the misunderstandings. (bcs they are 2 dorks imo)
I loved the flashbacks from the past, where it shows the beginning of their friendship, how they met and what happened to Aodhan. (I cried my eyes out in the chapter when they found him 😭 😭)
The presence of the descendant of Kaia (Illium's mortal love), whose name is Kai, left me completely indifferent about it, for me her role was so marginal, that it did not create the triangle that some feared, but at least it served to make Illium understand that he must overcome his past love.
So bye bye Kai we won't miss you, close the door when you leave.👋
After reading the book I thought that it was weird that there was not even an "I love you" said so explicitly from them to each other. Am I the only one thinking of it? I also understand that their relationship is so deep that those three words are superfluous, but I would have liked to read it, that's it.
And finally I have to say it. WHAT I READ IS NOT ENOUGH, I WANT AT LEAST ANOTHER BOOK ABOUT THEM.
I think I understand what our beloved Nalini did: She wanted to test the waters with this couple, slowly introducing the first m/m couple of the series, without sex scenes, (even if that scene in front of the bonfire made me throw my poor Kobo) in order to prepare the most reluctant classic readers.
Okay, never mind, I've waited so long for Sparklebell, that they could have happily knitted in front of the fireplace for 300 pages and it would have been book of the year for me anyway.
We have time for further developments of that kind. (͡ ° ͜ʖ ͡ °)
P.S: Possessive Aodhan is superior * _ *
Forgive my english mistakes, I don't even know how I wrote all of this after reading the book of my life 😭 😭
Thank you Nalini. ❤️❤️
June 3, 2021
I've followed this series from the beginning and loved every single book yet I too am disappointed at the prospect of this being a M/M book. I'm not a homophobe before anyone jumps down my throat but this is a F/M series! If she wishes to try her hand at M/M romance she should start a new series, like she did with her thriller/mystery. That way we have a choice whether to buy them or not.
Yes we can choose not to read it but in doing so will miss out on Aodan's back story which we've been waiting for, for years and of course the major Lijuan arc and what evil surprises she has left in China and the cameo roles of all the other characters as the story progresses. I feel this was a very underhand move of Ms. Singh to do this!
Many of us have followed this series since 2009 when Angel's Blood came out and have eagerly waited for Illium and Aodan's stories year after year. I also feel it devalues their deep friendship and bond as 'brothers' if it turns sexual. But it looks like it may if the blurb is the official blurb. Some may argue that this has been a long time coming. I disagree although she has been baiting us for a while about these two in the last few books but I really felt it was just a deep bond. I remember a Q&A on Facebook right after Archangel's Legion came out and somebody asked if Aodan and Illium were gay and she said no, they are just very close friends.
I too am beginning to wonder if she's been pressurized somehow into making this an M/M romance by a certain group of readers and society's demands. There are plenty of other avenues to explore for M/M romance but to put a story like this in a M/F series is really off.
I'll read it but if it goes this route I will be very disappointed and I feel Ms. Singh has betrayed her loyal readers with this. I can't say more until I read the book. At this stage its all just speculation. Perhaps she'll say something in her newsletter.
I'm new to this site so I haven't properly set up my profile yet. I'm not an internet troll.
Yes we can choose not to read it but in doing so will miss out on Aodan's back story which we've been waiting for, for years and of course the major Lijuan arc and what evil surprises she has left in China and the cameo roles of all the other characters as the story progresses. I feel this was a very underhand move of Ms. Singh to do this!
Many of us have followed this series since 2009 when Angel's Blood came out and have eagerly waited for Illium and Aodan's stories year after year. I also feel it devalues their deep friendship and bond as 'brothers' if it turns sexual. But it looks like it may if the blurb is the official blurb. Some may argue that this has been a long time coming. I disagree although she has been baiting us for a while about these two in the last few books but I really felt it was just a deep bond. I remember a Q&A on Facebook right after Archangel's Legion came out and somebody asked if Aodan and Illium were gay and she said no, they are just very close friends.
I too am beginning to wonder if she's been pressurized somehow into making this an M/M romance by a certain group of readers and society's demands. There are plenty of other avenues to explore for M/M romance but to put a story like this in a M/F series is really off.
I'll read it but if it goes this route I will be very disappointed and I feel Ms. Singh has betrayed her loyal readers with this. I can't say more until I read the book. At this stage its all just speculation. Perhaps she'll say something in her newsletter.
I'm new to this site so I haven't properly set up my profile yet. I'm not an internet troll.
June 9, 2021
Nooooo! The last author that pulled this bait and switch crap (Gena Showalter) never recovered, and I suspect it will be the same case with Nalini. How can she cave to a small portion of the fandom like this?! They have a brotherly bond, not a lover bond. Noooo! Nalini even said herself that she did not see A and I ending up together....what changed?! She caved, plain and simple. I feel robbed. After investing so many years, waiting for I's story, disappointment doesn't even cover it. What is up with these authors lately?!?
ditched
May 25, 2021Urgh so instead of 2 epic love stories we get MM story pushed by a certain fanbase. Well sorry But this is where I stop with this series. So disappointed !
October 26, 2021
I read Archangel’s Light back in July (I highlighted the heck out of my eARC, by the way) and I’ve reread it twice since then, but even now, I still don’t completely know how to properly express how important and meaningful this book is (for so many reasons). Right off the bat, I’d like to clarify that this isn’t the typical Guild Hunter novel with its plot-heavy moments and scorching hot love scenes, no, Nalini Singh approached Illium and Aodhan’s story with a careful hand that stays true to who the two are, and how organically their relationship develops. So no, there aren’t any explicitly hot moments between Illium and Aodhan in this book (does heavy petting count?) but knowing Nalini, I’m sure she has something more planned for us.
To say that this is the angstiest Guild Hunter book would be an understatement.. but beyond the angst and all the baggage that Illium and Aodhan both carry, is a determination on both their ends to heal those broken pieces, no matter the cost. We see a battle of wills between the two main characters: Illium pulling away and trying to understand what Aodhan needs and whether he is a part of those needs/relevant to A’s healing process; and Aodhan, hellbent on showing that while his road to healing is long—a road he must travel alone—he still needs Illium in his life, in whatever way he can get the other. They’re both stubborn as heck, and while it was frustrating seeing that aspect of them directed at each other, it also helped break the ice (so to speak) between the two of them.
I didn’t think it was possible but I fell even more in love with Illium, Aodhan, Raphael and the rest of the Seven in this book. It was incredibly clever of Nalini to split the book into “Yesterday� and “Today� chapters; she gives us a glimpse of Illium and Aodhan (or Blue and Adi) from their childhood to them growing up. We see how Raphael and the members of the Seven have acted as older brothers and caregivers to the two when they were younger, how they contributed in raising the boys and instilling lessons and attributes into them. Seeing those moments literally had my heart melting at every scene and I had to stop myself from going “awwww� whenever they’d come up (my heart was mush by the end of the book, in a good way).
Because of the way Archangel’s Light was divided into parts, Nalini was able to maximize letting us understand who Illium and Aodhan were. We get to know them in their formative years and how those years affected them as they grew up, we’re given the chance to truly get to know them and see beyond their beautiful wings and figures. And it’s honestly impossible to not fall in love with them as you learn more about the two of them. I’ve always been an Illium fan (he’s my favorite Seven member) so seeing a depth to him that we hadn’t seen before was such an eye-opening experience. And though Illium is my favorite, I have to say that unraveling the mystery that is Aodhan was a completely new and painful and surprising discovery. He’s always been so mysterious, so untouchable (literally) and we’ve only gotten peeks at his true self but we get to see beyond the tortured artist and into his psyche—it’s an experience people will not be completely ready for.
Archangel’s Light is, in essence, a love story. Nalini explores so many different meanings of love, whether it be familial love, or a love borne out of kinship and camaraderie. Or a parental-like love that develops as one cares for children and watch them grow into independent young men. Or, as we see between Illium and Aodhan, a love that evolves from friendship to a passionate, romantic one. Their love is the ultimate manifestation of the friends to lovers trope, and Nalini depicts that development between the two of them with such grace. She doesn’t rush their story just to give them their own HEA, instead, Nalini slowly cultivates the seeds she planted in the previous books, hints about the change in their relationship, and gives it the right amount of water, love and care, helping that change bloom and blossom into the romance they have now. The burn is so, so slow but the end result is so worth the ache.
It may sound selfish given that we already got a whole novel about Illium and Aodhan but damn, I could read about the two of them forever; there’s just so much to learn and witness with them. This book was, in my opinion, the perfect start to a new chapter of their story, one that solidifies their relationship—a relationship that was hard-earned and enduring. This was by no means an easy book, there were so many moments that had my heartbreaking, but Nalini found ways to soothe the pains we endured along the way. (And can I just say, I truly appreciate that we’re finally seeing queer main characters in Nalini’s books. Her novels have always been so racially and culturally diverse and it’s so refreshing that we’re finally getting more LGBTQ+ representation in them.)
Archangel’s Light spoke to my heart and my soul; it made me see these characters I’ve known for years in a new light, and fall further in love with them. This book solidified my respect and admiration for Nalini Singh and her otherworldly writing, her crafting this new installment opens so many new doors for not just the Guild Hunter world, but her writing as a whole. I cannot wait to see where she’ll take us next.
�
I honestly had no idea what kind of story I wanted for Illium and Aodhan, as long as they were happy (and together), I was satisfied. But Nalini Singh, being the genius writer goddess she is, gives us a story that more than satisfies—it whets your appetite, entices you with its decadent language and delivers a story so profound and full of life that it satiates years long hungers for Illium and Aodhan's story. Archangel's Light is beyond just a slow burn (angsty) romance, it's a journey of healing for two bruised hearts and a new discovery of someone you've always known and loved. This is bound to be a Nalini Singh classic and I cannot wait for people to fall further in love with our Bluebell and Sparkle.
(Yes, I am 100% already planning my reread. And I heard from a little bird that we're getting #SparkleBell steam in another Guild Hunter book, I may actually combust if we get another full-length book about the two of them.)
Full review to come!
Thank you to Berkley Romance for providing an advance copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review!
To say that this is the angstiest Guild Hunter book would be an understatement.. but beyond the angst and all the baggage that Illium and Aodhan both carry, is a determination on both their ends to heal those broken pieces, no matter the cost. We see a battle of wills between the two main characters: Illium pulling away and trying to understand what Aodhan needs and whether he is a part of those needs/relevant to A’s healing process; and Aodhan, hellbent on showing that while his road to healing is long—a road he must travel alone—he still needs Illium in his life, in whatever way he can get the other. They’re both stubborn as heck, and while it was frustrating seeing that aspect of them directed at each other, it also helped break the ice (so to speak) between the two of them.
I didn’t think it was possible but I fell even more in love with Illium, Aodhan, Raphael and the rest of the Seven in this book. It was incredibly clever of Nalini to split the book into “Yesterday� and “Today� chapters; she gives us a glimpse of Illium and Aodhan (or Blue and Adi) from their childhood to them growing up. We see how Raphael and the members of the Seven have acted as older brothers and caregivers to the two when they were younger, how they contributed in raising the boys and instilling lessons and attributes into them. Seeing those moments literally had my heart melting at every scene and I had to stop myself from going “awwww� whenever they’d come up (my heart was mush by the end of the book, in a good way).
Because of the way Archangel’s Light was divided into parts, Nalini was able to maximize letting us understand who Illium and Aodhan were. We get to know them in their formative years and how those years affected them as they grew up, we’re given the chance to truly get to know them and see beyond their beautiful wings and figures. And it’s honestly impossible to not fall in love with them as you learn more about the two of them. I’ve always been an Illium fan (he’s my favorite Seven member) so seeing a depth to him that we hadn’t seen before was such an eye-opening experience. And though Illium is my favorite, I have to say that unraveling the mystery that is Aodhan was a completely new and painful and surprising discovery. He’s always been so mysterious, so untouchable (literally) and we’ve only gotten peeks at his true self but we get to see beyond the tortured artist and into his psyche—it’s an experience people will not be completely ready for.
Archangel’s Light is, in essence, a love story. Nalini explores so many different meanings of love, whether it be familial love, or a love borne out of kinship and camaraderie. Or a parental-like love that develops as one cares for children and watch them grow into independent young men. Or, as we see between Illium and Aodhan, a love that evolves from friendship to a passionate, romantic one. Their love is the ultimate manifestation of the friends to lovers trope, and Nalini depicts that development between the two of them with such grace. She doesn’t rush their story just to give them their own HEA, instead, Nalini slowly cultivates the seeds she planted in the previous books, hints about the change in their relationship, and gives it the right amount of water, love and care, helping that change bloom and blossom into the romance they have now. The burn is so, so slow but the end result is so worth the ache.
It may sound selfish given that we already got a whole novel about Illium and Aodhan but damn, I could read about the two of them forever; there’s just so much to learn and witness with them. This book was, in my opinion, the perfect start to a new chapter of their story, one that solidifies their relationship—a relationship that was hard-earned and enduring. This was by no means an easy book, there were so many moments that had my heartbreaking, but Nalini found ways to soothe the pains we endured along the way. (And can I just say, I truly appreciate that we’re finally seeing queer main characters in Nalini’s books. Her novels have always been so racially and culturally diverse and it’s so refreshing that we’re finally getting more LGBTQ+ representation in them.)
Archangel’s Light spoke to my heart and my soul; it made me see these characters I’ve known for years in a new light, and fall further in love with them. This book solidified my respect and admiration for Nalini Singh and her otherworldly writing, her crafting this new installment opens so many new doors for not just the Guild Hunter world, but her writing as a whole. I cannot wait to see where she’ll take us next.
�
I honestly had no idea what kind of story I wanted for Illium and Aodhan, as long as they were happy (and together), I was satisfied. But Nalini Singh, being the genius writer goddess she is, gives us a story that more than satisfies—it whets your appetite, entices you with its decadent language and delivers a story so profound and full of life that it satiates years long hungers for Illium and Aodhan's story. Archangel's Light is beyond just a slow burn (angsty) romance, it's a journey of healing for two bruised hearts and a new discovery of someone you've always known and loved. This is bound to be a Nalini Singh classic and I cannot wait for people to fall further in love with our Bluebell and Sparkle.
(Yes, I am 100% already planning my reread. And I heard from a little bird that we're getting #SparkleBell steam in another Guild Hunter book, I may actually combust if we get another full-length book about the two of them.)
Full review to come!
Thank you to Berkley Romance for providing an advance copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review!
November 21, 2021
Spoilers, lots and lots of spoilers! Ok, buckle up, because this is going to be long. But then again, as someone who has followed the series from the beginning (more than 10 years invested in this. A freaking decade! unfathomable), that is to be expected.
I subscribe to what another reviewer has said before, this book is basically the author rewriting the whole Guild Hunter series to suit this pairing. All their interactions are now cast in a different light to suit the new, “evolved� relationship. But then again what else could she have done to suddenly justify all this?
She makes sure to point out in the beginning that in his early years A had an “infatuation� with a male flight instructor (whew, so glad we got that outta the way, I can now sleep better at night knowing he played for both teams from the very beginning. Wonder why it wasn’t mentioned before though? You know, say like in the previous 13 books? Edit: Oh wait, A's first sexual encounter was with a male angel, it's mentioned towards the end of the book, in like one paragraph, which somehow managed to be way hotter than all his interactions with Illium :))).
But, moving on, the first 100 pages are I and A acting like confused teenagers and waxing poetic about one another’s physical attributes in purple prose. Also, 90% of the people surrounding them are gorgeous, and well the rest don’t count.
I didn’t like that Nalini made Illium’s female first love look like am undeserving twat (and points out Aodhan actually disliked her all along), even though this is the woman Illium pined after for 500 years. I mean really? She didn’t need to make Kaia “less”and diminish their love just to get the point across that A and I were predestined from the start,and their love is the “real”one, low blow that.
Illium’s character is destroyed! He is a petulant, annoying manchild.
And that whole thing with Kaia’s descendant (named Kai - talk about recycling) as a plot device for Illium to deal with his feelings about his first love, was utter rubbish.
Don’t get me started on Aodhan’s jelousy towards Kai. So not cool! That poor girl is what? Maybe 20 years old, whereas he is 500. And she wasn’t even the initiator of the flirting. Jeez!
Anyways, I tried, but halfway through, it got really boring and I confess to skipping to the last few chapters (yes I read the saucy bits, not that saucy mind you). Maybe it's just me? Scratch that, it's definitely me, but it felt sooooo weird!
Also, A and I”s text messages to each other are about cookies and cats? What the hell?
I could say a lot more (like about the whole “you’re mine, I’m yours bullshit�, or the weird inside the ocean kiss, yes you read that right) but I’m going to stop now, because I can feel myself getting nasty.
Disclaimer! because sadly in this day and age we need it. I have read m/m before, so my issue is not with that, it’s with the crap foreshadowing that was done in previous books and this pairing in particular. It feels like bait and switch (mind you, the longest in the history of a book series- 10 years and counting) and also it feels out of character and it’s just weird. Wish she kept them as just friends. Rant over. Series over. Crushing disappointment remains.
Also, since we have established the whole pushing for ships actually works, can I ask for the next book in the A&I series to be mmf? Throw us non-shippers a bone!
I subscribe to what another reviewer has said before, this book is basically the author rewriting the whole Guild Hunter series to suit this pairing. All their interactions are now cast in a different light to suit the new, “evolved� relationship. But then again what else could she have done to suddenly justify all this?
She makes sure to point out in the beginning that in his early years A had an “infatuation� with a male flight instructor (whew, so glad we got that outta the way, I can now sleep better at night knowing he played for both teams from the very beginning. Wonder why it wasn’t mentioned before though? You know, say like in the previous 13 books? Edit: Oh wait, A's first sexual encounter was with a male angel, it's mentioned towards the end of the book, in like one paragraph, which somehow managed to be way hotter than all his interactions with Illium :))).
But, moving on, the first 100 pages are I and A acting like confused teenagers and waxing poetic about one another’s physical attributes in purple prose. Also, 90% of the people surrounding them are gorgeous, and well the rest don’t count.
I didn’t like that Nalini made Illium’s female first love look like am undeserving twat (and points out Aodhan actually disliked her all along), even though this is the woman Illium pined after for 500 years. I mean really? She didn’t need to make Kaia “less”and diminish their love just to get the point across that A and I were predestined from the start,and their love is the “real”one, low blow that.
Illium’s character is destroyed! He is a petulant, annoying manchild.
And that whole thing with Kaia’s descendant (named Kai - talk about recycling) as a plot device for Illium to deal with his feelings about his first love, was utter rubbish.
Don’t get me started on Aodhan’s jelousy towards Kai. So not cool! That poor girl is what? Maybe 20 years old, whereas he is 500. And she wasn’t even the initiator of the flirting. Jeez!
Anyways, I tried, but halfway through, it got really boring and I confess to skipping to the last few chapters (yes I read the saucy bits, not that saucy mind you). Maybe it's just me? Scratch that, it's definitely me, but it felt sooooo weird!
Also, A and I”s text messages to each other are about cookies and cats? What the hell?
I could say a lot more (like about the whole “you’re mine, I’m yours bullshit�, or the weird inside the ocean kiss, yes you read that right) but I’m going to stop now, because I can feel myself getting nasty.
Disclaimer! because sadly in this day and age we need it. I have read m/m before, so my issue is not with that, it’s with the crap foreshadowing that was done in previous books and this pairing in particular. It feels like bait and switch (mind you, the longest in the history of a book series- 10 years and counting) and also it feels out of character and it’s just weird. Wish she kept them as just friends. Rant over. Series over. Crushing disappointment remains.
Also, since we have established the whole pushing for ships actually works, can I ask for the next book in the A&I series to be mmf? Throw us non-shippers a bone!
November 2, 2021
4.5 stars - Paranormal/Urban Fantasy/MM Romance
I've been waiting for Illium's book since what feels like forever. I also wanted Aodhan's story. So I should've loved this book, right? I really liked it, but I was also a tad disappointed, especially after waiting for so long.
Illium's/Bluebell's and Aodhan's/Sparkles's transition from lifelong, immortal friendship with deep, abiding mutual love and respect to something more physical and romantic in nature was emotional, touching, and very slow-burn. I just wanted more romance and a lot more of them actually together in their newly evolved and developed relationship.
The ending was a bit abrupt, and I would have loved an epilogue. I can only hope that Ms. Singh satisfies my craving for more of them together by featuring Illium and Aodhan prominently in future books.
I've been waiting for Illium's book since what feels like forever. I also wanted Aodhan's story. So I should've loved this book, right? I really liked it, but I was also a tad disappointed, especially after waiting for so long.
Illium's/Bluebell's and Aodhan's/Sparkles's transition from lifelong, immortal friendship with deep, abiding mutual love and respect to something more physical and romantic in nature was emotional, touching, and very slow-burn. I just wanted more romance and a lot more of them actually together in their newly evolved and developed relationship.
The ending was a bit abrupt, and I would have loved an epilogue. I can only hope that Ms. Singh satisfies my craving for more of them together by featuring Illium and Aodhan prominently in future books.
October 29, 2021
I’ve been read this series for years and this was so disappointing. Not only was the plot boring and I mean so so so mind numbingly boring but the pairing felt forced. These characters have a beautiful friendship and then to spend 49 chapters convincing seasoned readers that “jk, there’s always been something more� is garbage. It also felt ‘easy� like if we want Aodhan to be gay go for it but could we give him a new person to be with instead of the person who is basically his BROTHER?! Remember we’ve had a decades worth of books reminding us about Illium’s dead female human lover and suddenly nope he likes Aodhan now?! ALSO the author refuses to label them ‘gay,bi, etc.� because they’re “beyond that� ?! Idk, this was just really disappointing. I enjoyed the flashback scenes but the actual plot sucked and it felt like the author didn’t want to write this ‘love� story so she spent 49 chapters convincing herself and us she was on board.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 8, 2021
I’m so disappointed.
October 26, 2021
Thanks to Netgalley and Berkley for providing me with an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
I loved this one. I knew it wouldn't be as... graphic... as the others, as this is a mainstream M-F series, but I was okay with that. I'm just happy that we got this pairing. Maybe I shouldn't be so happy for scraps, but as I wasn't expecting her to actually go there, I'm just pleased beyond words. I love Bluebell and Sparkles! We got a lot of Illium and Aodhan's backstories (finally), and I'm so excited to see what comes next.
Trigger warnings for this one, though, as some of Aodhan's history is rough, and we get some information (not in too much detail, thankfully) about that.
This slow burn of a novel doesn't have much "action," but it does have a lot of events that are building up the next phase of this world's story. Lijuan's influence isn't gone, and there certainly seems to be something coming.
And the COVER. Can't we all agree that this cover is absolutely STUNNING?
Highly recommend this series, but please don't make this the place you start the series. You'll have no idea what's going on. Jump in from the beginning - you'll want to catch up for sure.
I loved this one. I knew it wouldn't be as... graphic... as the others, as this is a mainstream M-F series, but I was okay with that. I'm just happy that we got this pairing. Maybe I shouldn't be so happy for scraps, but as I wasn't expecting her to actually go there, I'm just pleased beyond words. I love Bluebell and Sparkles! We got a lot of Illium and Aodhan's backstories (finally), and I'm so excited to see what comes next.
Trigger warnings for this one, though, as some of Aodhan's history is rough, and we get some information (not in too much detail, thankfully) about that.
This slow burn of a novel doesn't have much "action," but it does have a lot of events that are building up the next phase of this world's story. Lijuan's influence isn't gone, and there certainly seems to be something coming.
And the COVER. Can't we all agree that this cover is absolutely STUNNING?
Highly recommend this series, but please don't make this the place you start the series. You'll have no idea what's going on. Jump in from the beginning - you'll want to catch up for sure.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 10, 2021
My wishes and speculations:
Personally, I don't think that pairing Illium with Aodhan is a good idea.
Their relationship is so precious, so beyond the macho brotherhood that characterizes the rest of the Seven's relationship. Their dynamic makes me keep guessing, and I feel if it is reduced to romance, it will lose all its wonder. Please don't come at me, I just feel real, intimate friendship is much rarer than romance.
Also, if Nalini wanted to go down that road she would have gone a long time ago. But the pressure from fans might make her write them as a couple, who knows.
We know that Illium had a female lover, and if he's bi Nalini could have easily dropped a sentence here and there to imply that he had male lovers but Nalini remained strictly non-commentary when it comes to his love-life. She's either undecided herself or wants to keep the speculation going.
At the same time, I cannot see a new character being introduced as their partner, both of them are more loved by the readers not to demand perfect emotional gratification.
We will see I guess.
Does anyone think there is a chance that Illium died lover somehow is resurrected or wasn't dead all along?
......
we have a synopsis and a cover!!!
So it is going to be Illium and Aodhan. Is this the first time Nalini writes non-hetero couples? I'm really curious about how she manages and also about the reader's and honestly, about my own reaction.
I have a feeling that this book is going to be special either way.
I'm kinda hyped about this 🥳
also, to those who went on Nalini's insta to whine... I'm embarrassed for you. If you don't care about this couple, simply don't read it, write a fanfiction, or whatever.
2021.11.09
Finally had the time to finish this book and my rating would be around 3.5 star
� I enjoyed some parts of it, mostly the mystery, horror parts. Nalini keeps writing excellent gore and you would think that after countless depictions of Lijuan`s terrors I would get tired of it, but no, it still grabbed my imagination.
–the romance part where this story fell a little flat.
It felt like the couple's whole conflict consisted of miscommunication; there was no catharsis to their relationship. Although I never shipped them, I grew kind of expectant of them, I was waiting for something more passionate than two college kids figuring out what's next after kissing once.
They felt incredibly young and innocent, and they were lovely and perfect it's just that
- but seriously, I missed the tension all of our main couples had; just think about Dimitri and Honor, Elena and Raphael, etc.
� What I feel this series needs is a different pacing. We are dealing with the aftermath of the war since how many books exactly? It is getting a little slow.
- with all this being said, this book was clearly written as an introductory chapter of their stories, so who knows, maybe it perfectly fills that purpose. We will have to decide in light of the following books.
- the couples I am most interested in as of now :
Alexander and Zanaya
Caliane and ?
- Also, I hope Nalini knows that we noticed that comment about Titus`s sister being a heartbreaker. Yes please, I desperately need a lesbian couple. Just imagine.
Personally, I don't think that pairing Illium with Aodhan is a good idea.
Their relationship is so precious, so beyond the macho brotherhood that characterizes the rest of the Seven's relationship. Their dynamic makes me keep guessing, and I feel if it is reduced to romance, it will lose all its wonder. Please don't come at me, I just feel real, intimate friendship is much rarer than romance.
Also, if Nalini wanted to go down that road she would have gone a long time ago. But the pressure from fans might make her write them as a couple, who knows.
We know that Illium had a female lover, and if he's bi Nalini could have easily dropped a sentence here and there to imply that he had male lovers but Nalini remained strictly non-commentary when it comes to his love-life. She's either undecided herself or wants to keep the speculation going.
At the same time, I cannot see a new character being introduced as their partner, both of them are more loved by the readers not to demand perfect emotional gratification.
We will see I guess.
Does anyone think there is a chance that Illium died lover somehow is resurrected or wasn't dead all along?
......
we have a synopsis and a cover!!!
So it is going to be Illium and Aodhan. Is this the first time Nalini writes non-hetero couples? I'm really curious about how she manages and also about the reader's and honestly, about my own reaction.
I have a feeling that this book is going to be special either way.
I'm kinda hyped about this 🥳
also, to those who went on Nalini's insta to whine... I'm embarrassed for you. If you don't care about this couple, simply don't read it, write a fanfiction, or whatever.
2021.11.09
Finally had the time to finish this book and my rating would be around 3.5 star
� I enjoyed some parts of it, mostly the mystery, horror parts. Nalini keeps writing excellent gore and you would think that after countless depictions of Lijuan`s terrors I would get tired of it, but no, it still grabbed my imagination.
–the romance part where this story fell a little flat.
It felt like the couple's whole conflict consisted of miscommunication; there was no catharsis to their relationship. Although I never shipped them, I grew kind of expectant of them, I was waiting for something more passionate than two college kids figuring out what's next after kissing once.
They felt incredibly young and innocent, and they were lovely and perfect it's just that
- but seriously, I missed the tension all of our main couples had; just think about Dimitri and Honor, Elena and Raphael, etc.
� What I feel this series needs is a different pacing. We are dealing with the aftermath of the war since how many books exactly? It is getting a little slow.
- with all this being said, this book was clearly written as an introductory chapter of their stories, so who knows, maybe it perfectly fills that purpose. We will have to decide in light of the following books.
- the couples I am most interested in as of now :
Alexander and Zanaya
Caliane and ?
- Also, I hope Nalini knows that we noticed that comment about Titus`s sister being a heartbreaker. Yes please, I desperately need a lesbian couple. Just imagine.
January 19, 2022
4.75 stars / 5 stars. Quite possibly my favorite Nalini Singh book.
Nov 2, 2021
Read for the second time. Still an amazing book about a friendship / budding romance. The mystery subplot was a lot less absorbing this time (since I already knew what they would discover). Some of other stuff was better than before, though, because knowing just how slow burn and chaste this book would turn out made it easier to notice and enjoy each of the subtle romantic signals in the first 80% of the book. I’ve read the last 15% multiple times. That section is just gorgeous. Also the Angry Stew scene is one of my favorite. Loved. Still, slightly less because of my disinterest in the mystery.
October 26, 2021
Illium—playful, loyal, kind, and powerful—has been a charismatic presence in the Guild Hunter series since the first book, Angels� Blood. Aodhan hasn’t been quite as prominent a character but his light-refracting beauty, artistry, and remoteness give him an almost haunting quality. Their fast friendship was always intriguing and many readers have been waiting for years to see it blossom into romance. Archangel’s Light is that long-awaited novel.
Early in the book, Raphael tells Elena he is sending Illium to help out Suyin and Aodhan in China. Suyin has requested Raphael’s permission to ask Aodhan to remain her second. After all that Aodhan has survived, Raphael will never take his choices away from him, but he doesn’t want to lose him and that’s why he sends Illium.
Ever since the events of Archangel’s Heart, where Aodhan and Illium had a falling out, the two have not been communicating much. Now it’s been a year since the war in Archangel’s War, where Aodhan volunteered to serve as Suyin’s second. In that time their rift has worsened and Illium’s arrival in China raises tensions further since they are already on thin ice with each other.
Aodhan is angry; he feels that because he retreated from the world for so long, Illium no longer views him as someone who can stand on his own and that Illium’s overprotectiveness hobbles him. Illium feels rejected (he also assumes that Aodhan will take the position when Suyin offers it). As far as he’s concerned, he’s worn his heart on his sleeve for too long and if Aodhan doesn’t value his care anymore then fuck him.
So Illium pastes on a fake smile that Aodhan sees through in a heartbeat. Each decides to keep an emotional distance while having the other’s back when they team up–but of course, that’s easier said than done.
Survivors of the horrors that Lijuan unleashed on China during her reign straggle into Suyin’s home base and among the new arrivals is Kai, a descendent of Kaia, the mortal lover Illium once lost his feathers over. Kai bears an uncanny resemblance to her ancestor and at first glance Illium is smitten. Aodhan winces; he never thought Kaia was good for Bluebell but he’s also never said so and never will. Illium feels similarly about Suyin (she and Aodhan are rumored to be an item).
Aodhan wants to confront Illium about his fakeness and Illium is determined not to engage. There are also small misunderstandings and mishaps that wound them. For example, Aodhan retreats from a glancing touch as if burned.
Soon enough, though, Suyin takes her people on a journey to a new location where she plans to build a citadel that isn’t haunted by the memory of Lijuan. Before she leaves, she asks Aodhan and Illium to stay behind (along with a few kitchen staff, Kai among them) and investigate the disturbing disappearance of an entire village.
Their hurts come out under danger and slowly (very slowly) they take small steps back toward each other.
These chapters alternate with others set during their childhood and youth. We see them meet as small angels (so cute; they call each other “Spark� and “Blue�). One is shy and the other gregarious, and that makes each the perfect person to grow up with for the other. Illium brings Aodhan out of his shell and Aodhan settles Illium. They practice flying together, discover their dreams together. And when each one is shattered by an emotional blow, his best friend is there for him.
The mystery subplot is one of the spookiest and creepiest in the series, so I don’t even know why I loved it. Possibly because it’s also one of the tautest and most suspenseful.
This book is relatively isolated from the world politics of the Guild Hunter series. The present-day story here takes place almost entirely in China and none of the other protagonists are present for that section. The flashback storyline about Illium and Aodhan’s childhood and youth is set centuries in the past, so while we see some familiar faces there, these sections have even less to do with the series� political plot.
This serves the story really well, especially once Aodhan and Illium are alone together to investigate the disappearances. The absence of other distractions (except for the investigation, and that brings them together) puts a close focus on their relationship—a friendship that’s a little screwed up and a lot wonderful.
This is a partial review. The complete review can be found here:
Postscript: I’m reading the book for the second time (still loving it!) and I wanted to amend what I said earlier with regard to the book standing on its own. I still think it does for the most part, but the first 10% or so does refer to many events and other characters in the series. Some of the most important events are later explained by the flashbacks, and several of the characters are new or have been very minor until now (Nalini Singh’s books usually have large casts), so of you’re new to the series or have fallen behind, keep in mind that even veteran of the series may not know them. And remember that about 10% of the way in the book gets easier to follow.
The author’s newsletter came out today with this in it:
October 22, 20021
I’ve been rethinking what I said below. I reread the last 20% last night and I think there’s reason to think there might be a sequel and to think things will get steamy there.
October 4, 2021
Just finished it. My full review (and rating) won’t be posted until the book comes out. I’ll just say this, for now, to warn people ahead of time—it’s very chaste. I’m sure that some readers will be disappointed, and some may even feel that it’s a cop-out, but I’d much rather see an author ace it than try to write material that she doesn’t feel she can handle well.
July 5, 2021:
What a breathtaking cover. And finally the romance that has been building between these compelling men will play out in full. I’m so glad this is happening; after all the buildup anything else would feel like a cheat.
There’s an article about how the cover was designed on Collider:
Nov 2, 2021
Read for the second time. Still an amazing book about a friendship / budding romance. The mystery subplot was a lot less absorbing this time (since I already knew what they would discover). Some of other stuff was better than before, though, because knowing just how slow burn and chaste this book would turn out made it easier to notice and enjoy each of the subtle romantic signals in the first 80% of the book. I’ve read the last 15% multiple times. That section is just gorgeous. Also the Angry Stew scene is one of my favorite. Loved. Still, slightly less because of my disinterest in the mystery.
October 26, 2021
Illium—playful, loyal, kind, and powerful—has been a charismatic presence in the Guild Hunter series since the first book, Angels� Blood. Aodhan hasn’t been quite as prominent a character but his light-refracting beauty, artistry, and remoteness give him an almost haunting quality. Their fast friendship was always intriguing and many readers have been waiting for years to see it blossom into romance. Archangel’s Light is that long-awaited novel.
Early in the book, Raphael tells Elena he is sending Illium to help out Suyin and Aodhan in China. Suyin has requested Raphael’s permission to ask Aodhan to remain her second. After all that Aodhan has survived, Raphael will never take his choices away from him, but he doesn’t want to lose him and that’s why he sends Illium.
Ever since the events of Archangel’s Heart, where Aodhan and Illium had a falling out, the two have not been communicating much. Now it’s been a year since the war in Archangel’s War, where Aodhan volunteered to serve as Suyin’s second. In that time their rift has worsened and Illium’s arrival in China raises tensions further since they are already on thin ice with each other.
Aodhan is angry; he feels that because he retreated from the world for so long, Illium no longer views him as someone who can stand on his own and that Illium’s overprotectiveness hobbles him. Illium feels rejected (he also assumes that Aodhan will take the position when Suyin offers it). As far as he’s concerned, he’s worn his heart on his sleeve for too long and if Aodhan doesn’t value his care anymore then fuck him.
So Illium pastes on a fake smile that Aodhan sees through in a heartbeat. Each decides to keep an emotional distance while having the other’s back when they team up–but of course, that’s easier said than done.
Survivors of the horrors that Lijuan unleashed on China during her reign straggle into Suyin’s home base and among the new arrivals is Kai, a descendent of Kaia, the mortal lover Illium once lost his feathers over. Kai bears an uncanny resemblance to her ancestor and at first glance Illium is smitten. Aodhan winces; he never thought Kaia was good for Bluebell but he’s also never said so and never will. Illium feels similarly about Suyin (she and Aodhan are rumored to be an item).
Aodhan wants to confront Illium about his fakeness and Illium is determined not to engage. There are also small misunderstandings and mishaps that wound them. For example, Aodhan retreats from a glancing touch as if burned.
Soon enough, though, Suyin takes her people on a journey to a new location where she plans to build a citadel that isn’t haunted by the memory of Lijuan. Before she leaves, she asks Aodhan and Illium to stay behind (along with a few kitchen staff, Kai among them) and investigate the disturbing disappearance of an entire village.
Their hurts come out under danger and slowly (very slowly) they take small steps back toward each other.
These chapters alternate with others set during their childhood and youth. We see them meet as small angels (so cute; they call each other “Spark� and “Blue�). One is shy and the other gregarious, and that makes each the perfect person to grow up with for the other. Illium brings Aodhan out of his shell and Aodhan settles Illium. They practice flying together, discover their dreams together. And when each one is shattered by an emotional blow, his best friend is there for him.
The mystery subplot is one of the spookiest and creepiest in the series, so I don’t even know why I loved it. Possibly because it’s also one of the tautest and most suspenseful.
This book is relatively isolated from the world politics of the Guild Hunter series. The present-day story here takes place almost entirely in China and none of the other protagonists are present for that section. The flashback storyline about Illium and Aodhan’s childhood and youth is set centuries in the past, so while we see some familiar faces there, these sections have even less to do with the series� political plot.
This serves the story really well, especially once Aodhan and Illium are alone together to investigate the disappearances. The absence of other distractions (except for the investigation, and that brings them together) puts a close focus on their relationship—a friendship that’s a little screwed up and a lot wonderful.
This is a partial review. The complete review can be found here:
Postscript: I’m reading the book for the second time (still loving it!) and I wanted to amend what I said earlier with regard to the book standing on its own. I still think it does for the most part, but the first 10% or so does refer to many events and other characters in the series. Some of the most important events are later explained by the flashbacks, and several of the characters are new or have been very minor until now (Nalini Singh’s books usually have large casts), so of you’re new to the series or have fallen behind, keep in mind that even veteran of the series may not know them. And remember that about 10% of the way in the book gets easier to follow.
The author’s newsletter came out today with this in it:
October 22, 20021
I’ve been rethinking what I said below. I reread the last 20% last night and I think there’s reason to think there might be a sequel and to think things will get steamy there.
October 4, 2021
Just finished it. My full review (and rating) won’t be posted until the book comes out. I’ll just say this, for now, to warn people ahead of time—it’s very chaste. I’m sure that some readers will be disappointed, and some may even feel that it’s a cop-out, but I’d much rather see an author ace it than try to write material that she doesn’t feel she can handle well.
July 5, 2021:
What a breathtaking cover. And finally the romance that has been building between these compelling men will play out in full. I’m so glad this is happening; after all the buildup anything else would feel like a cheat.
There’s an article about how the cover was designed on Collider:
August 6, 2021
Ok firstly...wowza that cover is so beautiful ❤️ but I’m so gutted at the choice Nalini Singh has made with this pairing. I think this completely destroys a beautiful close relationship between siblings (because that’s how I feel they have been described throughout the series - as brothers) and instead Nalini has caved to a small, loud section of the fandom who have pushed this idea. I think Nalini could do with more M/M pairings in her series but this one has not been well executed throughout the books.
Also I’ve noticed a small number of readers targeting those who have been leaving one star reviews. To anyone who has a problem with me writing this, I’m allowed to express my opinion and just as plenty of fans of this books direction have written 5 star reviews, I am allowed to write a 1 star if I am disappointed too.
Also I’ve noticed a small number of readers targeting those who have been leaving one star reviews. To anyone who has a problem with me writing this, I’m allowed to express my opinion and just as plenty of fans of this books direction have written 5 star reviews, I am allowed to write a 1 star if I am disappointed too.
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