I became hooked on J. Naomi Ay’s epic fantasy series after reading Thad’s Mistake, and she never disappoints. In Of Blood and Angels, we find our hero, Senya, both literally and figuratively, fighting demons. Senya’s godlike qualities, which he only began to understand in My Enemy’s Son, have manifested, and his understanding of how to use those powers has blossomed, like the nuclear wasted planet Rozari, which he fertilizes with his own blood. Senya’s blood brings life, and unless he spills it repeatedly and often, he suffers physical symptoms that threaten not only his life, but the lives of those around him.
We saw Senya marry Katie Golden in My Enemy’s Son, and witnesses the strain Senya’s royal heritage brought to the marriage. Now, somewhat reconciled to the fact of Senya’s imperial obligations, Katie becomes pregnant. During her pregnancy, fears of their child’s possible ascension to the throne and Senya’s increasing indifference, causes Katie to run away from Rozari. She is offered a promotion to Captain of a starship and stays on the ship until her child is born, thus preventing them from ever being a monarch of Rehnor.
Of Blood and Angels is a fitting continuation of a great series. We learn more about whom Senya is and why he must do what he must do. I have recommended this series before, but after reading Of Blood and Angels, I say go get The Boy who Lit up the Sky today and get started on this truly larger-than-life series.