Move over, vampires (and werewolves). I think the Angelic Age is here. Corny? Sorry. I couldn’t help myself.I wasn’t sure whether I would like the novel. The cover is totally gorgeous but I was still hesitant and I am so glad to report to all of you that I was wholly, totally blown away by it. I have even decided to get the book in hard copy once it is out (and let me tell you, it is really difficult for a starving college student to find extra money for books) – that’s how much I love it.I felt discombobulated when I started reading it but it was only for an instant until I realized what was going on. I know the synopsis makes it sound as though Clara has a sudden epiphany, a voice thundering in her mind – “Child, Thou Art Half an Angel!” but that’s not really what happens. I’ll leave you to find out what does but suffice it to say that it’s such a relief that the novel is one which avoids the too common “Main character is a supernatural/has powers/is magickal and then main characters leads to freaking out/disbelieving/crying.” Yeah, those? Happen way too often.Anyway, my point is, this is doesn’t happen in Unearthly and I am eternally grateful for it.I love the way Ms. Hand takes the supernatural, dare I say divine and juxtaposes it with the mundane. You see, even angels (half as they may be) go through puberty and face the hallowed hell that is high school. Ms. Hand’s mythos is definitely engaging and the details are intricate enough to convince even the most hardened cynic (I am not one of them.)But I think the greatest feat is her characterization. I love Clara and you know how important liking the heroine of a novel is. Especially for me. If I don’t like her (or love to hate her) I will not read the book. Clara is parts gawky, parts magical and parts human. An interesting mix in all. The love triangle is intriguing and, you know, weird as it might be, original. At the same time, it twists again so you are left utterly confused by the end of the novel. I still don’t know who I like better.As for the technical bits, the writing is exquisite and there’s nothing that distracts you from the pace of the story. The plot is addictive and while I know the sequel is probably swirling in Ms. Hand’s mind right now, I’m dying (dying, do hear?) to find out what happens next.So, read this! It’s about as awesome as it gets.
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