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Exit Unicorns #3
Flights of Angels
From the dark fairy tale forests of Russia...
To the steamy intrigues of a Hong Kong opium den...
From ancestral secrets long hidden in a Paris mansion...
To the rolling, bloody hills of Ireland during the Troubles...
Meticulously researched and brilliantly written, this, the third book in Cindy Brandner's magnificent Exit Unicorns series continues the story of Casey and Pamela Riordan, Pat Riordan and Jamie Kirkpatrick.
Trapped by circumstance and the events of his past in the USSR, Jamie Kirpatrick struggles to survive in a hostile environment where not all is as it seems, and blood bonds are forged with enemies in order to survive.
In Ireland, Pamela and Casey Riordan attempt to live a normal life amidst deceit, betrayal and an unofficial war that claims more than just blood. Bequeathed a legacy by Jamie Kirkpatrick, they struggle to keep an empire intact but cannot know the surprises that await them.
Flights of Angels is not only historical fiction, but equal parts political thriller, love story and fairy tale. Richly embroidered with lush imagery, spanning continents and vastly different cultures, this is an epic tale of country and the turnings of the human heart.
To the steamy intrigues of a Hong Kong opium den...
From ancestral secrets long hidden in a Paris mansion...
To the rolling, bloody hills of Ireland during the Troubles...
Meticulously researched and brilliantly written, this, the third book in Cindy Brandner's magnificent Exit Unicorns series continues the story of Casey and Pamela Riordan, Pat Riordan and Jamie Kirkpatrick.
Trapped by circumstance and the events of his past in the USSR, Jamie Kirpatrick struggles to survive in a hostile environment where not all is as it seems, and blood bonds are forged with enemies in order to survive.
In Ireland, Pamela and Casey Riordan attempt to live a normal life amidst deceit, betrayal and an unofficial war that claims more than just blood. Bequeathed a legacy by Jamie Kirkpatrick, they struggle to keep an empire intact but cannot know the surprises that await them.
Flights of Angels is not only historical fiction, but equal parts political thriller, love story and fairy tale. Richly embroidered with lush imagery, spanning continents and vastly different cultures, this is an epic tale of country and the turnings of the human heart.
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First published March 1, 2012
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
November 28, 2016
This sweeping series continues with the characters further entangled in the civil war in Northern Ireland and the consequences of patriotism and international intrigue.The plot is twisty, complicated and by turns heartbreaking,uplifting and yes, at times outrageously funny.
The expansion of James Kirkpatrick's role as a man of international intrigue gets a lot of play as does the history of the Soviet Union.Initially I had some trouble getting into this part of the story. But it grew on me as I saw the parallels between the two countries.
The Riordans deeper in love than ever, attempt to live a normal life. But normalcy is elusive, as The Troubles in Belfast continue to pull at the threads of their relationship. The puppeteers of civil war, those shadowy figures in government and religion who seek to further their own agenda continue to pull the strings of the Irish people.
I continue to marvel at the author's command of the written word. Her ability to transport her reader into the life and times of her characters is magical. The ability to educate and entertain one's readers is a hallmark of a talented writer. To transport a reader into the midst of the plot so they feel they are living what the characters are is pure genius.
After finishing this third installment,I was drained. I will take a break, read something a little lighter then return to Northern Ireland.
The expansion of James Kirkpatrick's role as a man of international intrigue gets a lot of play as does the history of the Soviet Union.Initially I had some trouble getting into this part of the story. But it grew on me as I saw the parallels between the two countries.
The Riordans deeper in love than ever, attempt to live a normal life. But normalcy is elusive, as The Troubles in Belfast continue to pull at the threads of their relationship. The puppeteers of civil war, those shadowy figures in government and religion who seek to further their own agenda continue to pull the strings of the Irish people.
I continue to marvel at the author's command of the written word. Her ability to transport her reader into the life and times of her characters is magical. The ability to educate and entertain one's readers is a hallmark of a talented writer. To transport a reader into the midst of the plot so they feel they are living what the characters are is pure genius.
After finishing this third installment,I was drained. I will take a break, read something a little lighter then return to Northern Ireland.
September 25, 2022
To my historical fiction fans- please stop sleeping on this series.
👏It👏is👏worth 👏the👏hype👏- 100%.
There were points in this book where I was thinking, is this better than Outlander? (And I love me some Outlander.) Am I wrong? Am I right? Does it even matter? Go on, get this in your TBR pile. This saga is worth your time.
Highly recommend having the kindle & audio back-and-forth combo- these are some chunky books.
👏It👏is👏worth 👏the👏hype👏- 100%.
There were points in this book where I was thinking, is this better than Outlander? (And I love me some Outlander.) Am I wrong? Am I right? Does it even matter? Go on, get this in your TBR pile. This saga is worth your time.
Highly recommend having the kindle & audio back-and-forth combo- these are some chunky books.
April 8, 2012
Flights of Angels is the 3rd installment of the Exit Unicorn Series and, WOW, is it good! I've read all three books and my review today will talk about this book and the writer, Cindy Brandner.
First, the story. Just be ready for a well played drama as things unfold for Casey & Pamela, Patrick and Jamie. There are ups and downs, light and darkness, and personal growth for all of these wonderful characters. You get drawn into a spiders web of intricate story lines, that are truly connected, even if they exist in different countries as the author takes you through the harshness of Belfast and the tranquil Irish countryside, as well as the harsh Russian landscape. If I had to sum up this story in one word it would - emotional. Each character is challenged in his or her own way and they must muster up the right amount of moxee to face their own personal demons and move forward. It's worth every minute to see how this story unfolds and the ending will leave you wanting more.
Now, the author. I have read all of Cindy Brandner's novels and I can say I have seen a growth and evolution in her writing. Each book is excellent and it seems impossible for Ms. Brandner to get better, but she does. As a reader who wants to be entertained, challenged and learn something in each book I read, I am never disappointed in the Exit Unicorn Series. Ms. Brandner has a way with showing you the heart of the matter through her lyrical writing. But don't think its all flowery fluff. It's not. Ms. Brandner's writing is the perfect balance of beauty and directness - no piece of her puzzle is without purpose. She doesn't waste your time. You know what you are reading is important to the story, and the layers of each piece bring you to a place very few authors can: satisfaction.
If you haven't read all of the Exit Unicorns Series, you need to get them all. Be ready to fall in love with a group of characters and an author who will truly make you believe in the magic of love, loyalty, family and friendship.
First, the story. Just be ready for a well played drama as things unfold for Casey & Pamela, Patrick and Jamie. There are ups and downs, light and darkness, and personal growth for all of these wonderful characters. You get drawn into a spiders web of intricate story lines, that are truly connected, even if they exist in different countries as the author takes you through the harshness of Belfast and the tranquil Irish countryside, as well as the harsh Russian landscape. If I had to sum up this story in one word it would - emotional. Each character is challenged in his or her own way and they must muster up the right amount of moxee to face their own personal demons and move forward. It's worth every minute to see how this story unfolds and the ending will leave you wanting more.
Now, the author. I have read all of Cindy Brandner's novels and I can say I have seen a growth and evolution in her writing. Each book is excellent and it seems impossible for Ms. Brandner to get better, but she does. As a reader who wants to be entertained, challenged and learn something in each book I read, I am never disappointed in the Exit Unicorn Series. Ms. Brandner has a way with showing you the heart of the matter through her lyrical writing. But don't think its all flowery fluff. It's not. Ms. Brandner's writing is the perfect balance of beauty and directness - no piece of her puzzle is without purpose. She doesn't waste your time. You know what you are reading is important to the story, and the layers of each piece bring you to a place very few authors can: satisfaction.
If you haven't read all of the Exit Unicorns Series, you need to get them all. Be ready to fall in love with a group of characters and an author who will truly make you believe in the magic of love, loyalty, family and friendship.
February 1, 2017
this is the third book in the Exit Unicorn series. In the beginning of the book it was a little hard to follow, but followed the two previous books in the series with the same characters, set in a different part of the world. Once I got into the book I couldn't put it down. Cindy Brandner is one of the finest story tellers. You can transport yourself and touch the characters, feelings and she is also a great historical writer. I hope their will be a 4th in this beautiful continuing saga.
March 20, 2015
Ms. Brandner continues to enchant me with her gift of language. Her ability to immediately engage me so delightfully reminds me of Ray Bradbury's Dandelion Wine. It's just a pleasure to read, and I was sorry when the the last page arrived.
Besides that, the story of Ireland and its people is fascinating, especially the love Ireland's people hold for her. I was first made aware of England's oppression of the Irish people as I traveled a bus down its narrow roads. (Yes, we DID have to stop for a flock of sheep.) Our driver was very informative and though entertaining, gave us a hint of the still existing resentment over their struggle for independence. Ms. Brandner's books allow me to see that story from the personal stories of her protagonists. Flights of Angels was magic and prosaic combined, mystical and reality both, woven through with delightful musical language. Celtic music expressed in words.
Besides that, the story of Ireland and its people is fascinating, especially the love Ireland's people hold for her. I was first made aware of England's oppression of the Irish people as I traveled a bus down its narrow roads. (Yes, we DID have to stop for a flock of sheep.) Our driver was very informative and though entertaining, gave us a hint of the still existing resentment over their struggle for independence. Ms. Brandner's books allow me to see that story from the personal stories of her protagonists. Flights of Angels was magic and prosaic combined, mystical and reality both, woven through with delightful musical language. Celtic music expressed in words.
September 7, 2015
I'm rating this 3 stars, because it took me so long to read. I reserve the higher stars for books that I can't put down and read in less than a month!!
I have enjoyed this series. l have liked, disliked, been frustrated, annoyed and saddened by most of the characters in this ever evolving saga. I have found, in the last few series novels that I have read (Outlander, Game of Thrones, Harry Potter, The Century Trilogy, etc) that each subsequent novel gets longer and longerrrrr with just too much going on, that it lessens the original enthusiasm for the first of the series.
With that said, Flights of Angels went in so many different directions that I kept hoping that as I went along, it would all be a cohesive ending and I could just swipe my hands together and sigh, "well, that was a job well done and now I'll just move on....". Wishful thinking.
I will read the next one (hoping against hope) that it will not be another huge novel going in several different directions and will be under, with any luck, 300 pages??
I have enjoyed this series. l have liked, disliked, been frustrated, annoyed and saddened by most of the characters in this ever evolving saga. I have found, in the last few series novels that I have read (Outlander, Game of Thrones, Harry Potter, The Century Trilogy, etc) that each subsequent novel gets longer and longerrrrr with just too much going on, that it lessens the original enthusiasm for the first of the series.
With that said, Flights of Angels went in so many different directions that I kept hoping that as I went along, it would all be a cohesive ending and I could just swipe my hands together and sigh, "well, that was a job well done and now I'll just move on....". Wishful thinking.
I will read the next one (hoping against hope) that it will not be another huge novel going in several different directions and will be under, with any luck, 300 pages??
January 17, 2015
I can't believe I invested so much time on this series. The first book was decent, but in serious need of editing. By the time I finished the second, I was just curious about how she would resolve the relationships. This book, the third in the series is a massive volume of self indulgent, meandering drivil. Was she self published? Did she even have an editor? If she had just cut out half of the cups of tea the book would have been hundreds of pages shorter. I ended up skimming through pages of irrelevant and repetitive tangents that did nothing to support the story. What a mess. I have too much trouble just putting a book down. I should have put this one down in the first few chapters. The sad thing is, if she had stuck to her main story and kept it tight, she might have had an interesting story of the conflict in Northern Ireland.
February 26, 2015
"Flights of Angels" is #3 in the "Exit Unicorn" series. As with the other 2 books, I really enjoyed this one also. I didn't completely understand the story-in-a-story of "The Crooked Man" but hopefully book #4 may shed more light on this. If not, I may have to read it again! Again, the descriptions of the Irish countryside and it's comparison with Russia help me to visualize the story in my mind. The changing of the seasons descriptions keep the book "rolling along". These books encompass all of human emotions, some good and some bad. Seems to be a good balance between the 2. Anxiously awaiting book #4.
December 17, 2012
The third book of the Exit Unicorn -story is a magnificent adventure. The characters, Jamie, Casey, Pamela and Pat are drawn through Russian forests and stormy Irish coasts. Their lives are in danger due to their own choices and the political settings in Ireland. Yet the most beautiful things can be found hidden in Russia and the most dangerous paths open up in one's own mind.
Not to be taken lightly is this storyline.
Not to be taken lightly is this storyline.
September 15, 2013
Third book in the Exit Unicorn series. This book again went into a completely different direction than what I expected but after reading it was exactly where the story needed to go. Another excellent story from Cindy, anxiously awaiting the fourth book. The author has an exceptional ability to pull the reader into her stories and keep them thereon after the books are finished. I look forward to reading more from this author.
April 24, 2014
The Exit Unicorn series reminded me of Diana Gabaldon's Outlander series except that this is Irish(rather than Scottish) history and there isn't any time traveling . A lot of prose and the primary location is Ireland though this last book includes Japan and Russia and really explores Jamie's psych. I loved it and can't wait to read the next installment.
June 21, 2014
This series has gotten better with every subsequent book. I really enjoy her interesting characters and her style of prose. This was certainly a complete story but it ended in quite a cliff hanger. Can't wait for the fourth book!
April 6, 2016
loved it!
June 17, 2020
Wow! The long awaited 3rd book in the Exit Unicorns series was well worth the wait. From Ireland to the Far East to Soviet Russia and back, the trip was riveting and revealing. We learn so much more about Jamie's past yet it feels like we've barely touched the surface. Experiencing 'normal' everyday family time with Casey, Pamela and Pat was wonderful yet bittersweet....you never feel completely safe for them. New to this book is a fairytale element which the author has woven into the story in a brilliant way, new layers are added to the story wherever it appears.
I believed with Mermaid in a Bowl of Tears that Ms. Brandner had outdone herself. I believe she has done so again. The writing and the imagery just keep getting better. Because of the depth, the twists and turns and the poetic writing, you look forward to a reread because you know something new will catch your eye, some aspect of the story will make you think differently. That is a sign of a really good book, one that has a permanent home on your bookshelf!
I believed with Mermaid in a Bowl of Tears that Ms. Brandner had outdone herself. I believe she has done so again. The writing and the imagery just keep getting better. Because of the depth, the twists and turns and the poetic writing, you look forward to a reread because you know something new will catch your eye, some aspect of the story will make you think differently. That is a sign of a really good book, one that has a permanent home on your bookshelf!
June 12, 2018
I love each book more as I continue in this series. The author continues to surprise and keep suspense high throughout this epic tale. Her characters are consistent, but have grown with their experiences.
Cindy Brandner gives all the necessary information but I find myself researching different historical events and different places just because I want to know more!
I feel as though these characters are people I have met, she makes them do tangible!
Do yourself a favor, and read these books!
Cindy Brandner gives all the necessary information but I find myself researching different historical events and different places just because I want to know more!
I feel as though these characters are people I have met, she makes them do tangible!
Do yourself a favor, and read these books!
January 17, 2019
The continuing saga of three main characters trying to live the most honorable of lives in dishonorable environment keeps me riveted. I know in my mind that they are fictional, but my heart knows that they are real. The exposition is beautifully poetic. I find myself transcended in time and space, a mental and emotional virtual reality. I'm between book releases, I find myself thinking of the characters and worrying about their futures.
Start with the first book, Exit Unicorn.
Start with the first book, Exit Unicorn.
May 28, 2017
This was the best of the series to date, and I will move forward immediately with the next book, In the Country of Shadows! Wow!
I love the writing concerning nature and the world. Lots of exciting things happened in this book that spanned several continents in truly unexpected ways. I have great admiration for Cindy Brandner, and she is a truly inspired writer. What great fun!
I love the writing concerning nature and the world. Lots of exciting things happened in this book that spanned several continents in truly unexpected ways. I have great admiration for Cindy Brandner, and she is a truly inspired writer. What great fun!
August 31, 2017
Sigh. I am immersed in these characters.
Flights of Angels is quite a journey. The Far East , Russia, Ireland, Paris & the land of the wee folk are all intertwined. We learn more about Jamie Kirkpatrick and see the strength in Pamela, Casey, Pat & David. All of this is grounded in the violence of Northern Ireland in the 1970s. A must read !
Flights of Angels is quite a journey. The Far East , Russia, Ireland, Paris & the land of the wee folk are all intertwined. We learn more about Jamie Kirkpatrick and see the strength in Pamela, Casey, Pat & David. All of this is grounded in the violence of Northern Ireland in the 1970s. A must read !
January 26, 2018
MY GOD THIS SERIES IS AWESOME
Her writing is like nothing I've come across before, your so drawn in from the start & it never stops. characters so real I feel like I could talk to them & touch them. Writing so rich & vivid I feel like I know this country very well,her beauty,her secrets, her everything. I love this series so much. I can't wait to make a trip over there
Her writing is like nothing I've come across before, your so drawn in from the start & it never stops. characters so real I feel like I could talk to them & touch them. Writing so rich & vivid I feel like I know this country very well,her beauty,her secrets, her everything. I love this series so much. I can't wait to make a trip over there
November 11, 2025
This book was so friggen good! I did not love book 2, but book 3 more than made up for it.
The author has a way of balancing the horror of this world with love and magic . She makes all of the pain worthwhile.
The author has a way of balancing the horror of this world with love and magic . She makes all of the pain worthwhile.
November 6, 2016
Another wonderful book
Love this book. Really enjoyed reading about life in Russia. She really knows how to change each book up and make it just as interesting.
Love this book. Really enjoyed reading about life in Russia. She really knows how to change each book up and make it just as interesting.
September 14, 2017
This author breathes beauty and sorrow to life with her words!
November 29, 2017
you get attached to the characters and want to spend more time with them
January 2, 2019
I enjoyed this book a lot. It was like reading two stories and a fantasy story all at once. It kept me engaged and eager to read on. The
January 23, 2021
This series is simply amazing! Every bit as gripping, and engaging as Outlander and I don't understand why it's not as big a smash hit!
July 27, 2024
Love It
The third book is just as compelling and fast placed as the first two, which is hard to grasp at over 1000pages!
The third book is just as compelling and fast placed as the first two, which is hard to grasp at over 1000pages!
March 13, 2021
I’m exhausted! Probably the best continuing series of books that I’ve read. If you read them, strap yourself in for the haul. They are long books so take your time and enjoy the ride! I’d like to jump right in and start the next book but I have to give myself a breather. Well written, so many twists and turns and great story telling.
February 6, 2016
I have told my fellow readers many times that Mermaid in a Bowl of Tears by Cindy Brandner is my favorite Exit Unicorns book. That was the book that clicked for me. I got sucked in more instantly than I did with Exit Unicorns, and its story was the one to prove to me that Ms Brandner's work is truly exceptional.
That being said, Flights of Angels, book three in the Exit Unicorns series, sold me for good. This book in particular has taken the Exit Unicorns series off my "favorite series" list, and put it near the very top of my "exceptional series" list. The list that contains such authors as Susanna Kearsley, John Green, Diana Gabaldon, and yes, even J.K. Rowling. (Of course J.K. Rowling will always be my end all be all, but there are some authors who come pretty close to her status in my book.)
Cindy Brandner's storytelling in Flights of Angels (Jamie's story in particular) sets the bar higher than ever before. Now, authors I read will have to prove themselves if I am to compare their writing to Ms Brandner's.
As I look back on my read of the series, I stand by my previous statement (in my Mermaid in a Bowl of Tears review, I think), that her writing has gotten better, more advanced, and her stories have grown into a stunning masterpiece. There are many books I read and review on The Literary Connoisseur that I truly enjoy. I find them fun, charming, and satisfying to a reader's mind. I read many books that reach that standard of mine, but Ms Brandner's Exit Unicorn series is truly exceptional. She has bypassed the "favorite review requests" category in my head, and has proven what she is capable of.
Cindy Brandner's books deserve to be the first thing you see as soon as you walk into Barnes and Noble. When The Reading Room, or Book Riot posts "books to read to bring you out of your reading lull," Exit Unicorns should be front and center.
These are the "It" books. The Exit Unicorns series ages like a fine wine, it only gets better with age.
That being said, Flights of Angels, book three in the Exit Unicorns series, sold me for good. This book in particular has taken the Exit Unicorns series off my "favorite series" list, and put it near the very top of my "exceptional series" list. The list that contains such authors as Susanna Kearsley, John Green, Diana Gabaldon, and yes, even J.K. Rowling. (Of course J.K. Rowling will always be my end all be all, but there are some authors who come pretty close to her status in my book.)
Cindy Brandner's storytelling in Flights of Angels (Jamie's story in particular) sets the bar higher than ever before. Now, authors I read will have to prove themselves if I am to compare their writing to Ms Brandner's.
As I look back on my read of the series, I stand by my previous statement (in my Mermaid in a Bowl of Tears review, I think), that her writing has gotten better, more advanced, and her stories have grown into a stunning masterpiece. There are many books I read and review on The Literary Connoisseur that I truly enjoy. I find them fun, charming, and satisfying to a reader's mind. I read many books that reach that standard of mine, but Ms Brandner's Exit Unicorn series is truly exceptional. She has bypassed the "favorite review requests" category in my head, and has proven what she is capable of.
Cindy Brandner's books deserve to be the first thing you see as soon as you walk into Barnes and Noble. When The Reading Room, or Book Riot posts "books to read to bring you out of your reading lull," Exit Unicorns should be front and center.
These are the "It" books. The Exit Unicorns series ages like a fine wine, it only gets better with age.
July 8, 2020
If you haven't delved into the world of Exit Unicorns, then you are missing out on an epic work of art!!
Flights of Angels is the third book in this phenomenal series and the continuing story of Casey, Pamela, Jamie, Patrick, and a host of memorable characters navigating the terrible tragedy that is The Troubles.
This part of the story has us traveling to Hong Kong, Paris, and Russia, then back to our most troubled Ireland. This book is bloody brilliant. It is a rollercoaster ride of emotion and the tale is full of mystery, politics, betrayal, love, heartache, and survival. There is always poetry and stories to be told that leave you breathless and Flights of Angels is no exception. It is so far my FAVOURITE of the series.
I first read Flights of Angels in 2015 and again in 2019 when the audiobook came out.
I highly recommend reading this series along with the audiobook. It is a whole other experience entirely!
Gary Furlong is a master at his trade and he does not disappoint! I thought he did a fantastic job with Exit Unicorns. He takes it up quite a few notches for Mermaid in a Bowl of Tears and he has completely BLOWN ME away with his work in Flights of Angels.
My favorites are the voices for the characters in the Tales of Ragged Jack and the part where Pamela connects with Jamie in the dream realm and has a mix of accents! Love it, love it, love it! His rendition of the Reverend Broughton and the Crooked Man is spine-tinglingly accurate in my mind.
Love it, love it, love it!
Flights of Angels is the third book in this phenomenal series and the continuing story of Casey, Pamela, Jamie, Patrick, and a host of memorable characters navigating the terrible tragedy that is The Troubles.
This part of the story has us traveling to Hong Kong, Paris, and Russia, then back to our most troubled Ireland. This book is bloody brilliant. It is a rollercoaster ride of emotion and the tale is full of mystery, politics, betrayal, love, heartache, and survival. There is always poetry and stories to be told that leave you breathless and Flights of Angels is no exception. It is so far my FAVOURITE of the series.
I first read Flights of Angels in 2015 and again in 2019 when the audiobook came out.
I highly recommend reading this series along with the audiobook. It is a whole other experience entirely!
Gary Furlong is a master at his trade and he does not disappoint! I thought he did a fantastic job with Exit Unicorns. He takes it up quite a few notches for Mermaid in a Bowl of Tears and he has completely BLOWN ME away with his work in Flights of Angels.
My favorites are the voices for the characters in the Tales of Ragged Jack and the part where Pamela connects with Jamie in the dream realm and has a mix of accents! Love it, love it, love it! His rendition of the Reverend Broughton and the Crooked Man is spine-tinglingly accurate in my mind.
Love it, love it, love it!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews