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published 1996; trade paperback 1996, Ace
It's been a long time since a book captivated me to the point where I stayed up until dawn just to read it. Archangel was an enthralling read, a blend of romance and action that kept me turning the pages even when I could hardly keep my eyes open.
In the world of Samaria, peace between ethnic groups and tribes is kept by a vigilant "god," Jehovah, who communicates with his people through oracles and miracles. The people, in turn, communicate their needs through angels, who sing prayers to Jehovah for rain, sunshine, and healing. Jehovah appoints a head angel, an Archangel, to be responsible for the planet and to preside over a yearly celebration called the Gloria. But it is the angelica, the wife of the Archangel, who chooses the song that the people will sing to honor Jehovah each year. If representatives from all the tribes are not present to sing at the Gloria, or if the Gloria is not sung, Jehovah will smite the world.
Rachel, daughter of Seth and Elizabeth, has been chosen by Jehovah to be angelica to Gabriel, the Archangel-in-waiting. She doesn't know that she's been chosen, and when she finds out, she isn't happy. Neither is Gabriel, who is arrogant and pompous but who also has a strong sense of duty and a fierce commitment to his people. The two clash over everything, but they must marry and learn to live with each other for the good of Samaria.
Trouble is brewing in the form of Raphael, the present Archangel. Raphael is reluctant to end his term and has gained the loyalty of many of the high-ranking leaders of Samaria, to the point where they are willing to follow him instead of the god. How far will Raphael go to keep his power? Will Rachel reconcile herself to her duty? What will happen to the world if she doesn't?
Though this story is billed as science fiction, I class it as fantasy because the underlying science of the story is never brought into play. It's only in the cover blurb that we learn Jehovah is not a god, but an orbiting space cruiser. The prayers of the angels work, but it's never explained how. There are other plot questions raised but not answered, which makes me wonder if there will ever be a sequel to Archangel. The aspects that are left unexplained detract from the story a little, but not significantly enough to be bothersome.
Overall, the story is gripping, the writing and description are beautiful, and the characters are striking and well-drawn. Archangel is a satisfying read.
Review by Sara Lipowitz
Reviewed October 1, 1996
ISBN 0-441-00330-3
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