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Book Review of Archangel (Samaria, Bk 1)

Archangel (Samaria, Bk 1)
Archangel (Samaria, Bk 1)
Author: Sharon Shinn
Genre: Science Fiction & Fantasy
Book Type: Mass Market Paperback
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From Booklist (Carl Hays):

Next in line to become archangel in the angel-led dominion of Samaria, Gabriel must lead the next chorale praising the god Jovah, which means he needs a wife--fast--to sing beside him. Guided by the local oracle and the light emanating from the Kiss of the Gods (a homing device in his wrist), he finds his Jovah-selected fiancee in a common Edori slave girl named Rachel. The marriage proves, however, anything but romantic. Far from rejoicing in the sudden freedom that her marriage brings, Rachel quickly becomes a thorn in Gabriel's side, using her newfound influence to help her downtrodden Edori brethren. Displaying sure command of characterization and vividly imagined settings, Shinn absorbs us in the story of how Rachel and Gabriel eventually unite in true love and respect. With place-names such as Gaza and Jordana, she tantalizingly hints at her Samaria's connection to an ancient Israeli past, and she tempers the angelic milieu with talk of her angels' technological heritage in an entertaining sf-fantasy blend that should please fans of both genres.

Well written and a decent plot, in my opinion. It's just hard for me to read a story about a girl forced to do something she doesn't want to. It's one of my pet peeves. ;-)