Flights of Angels

Flights of Angels is a sweeping story, really almost an epic, which spans from the decadence of Rome to the shores of Britain. The cast of characters are all richly developed and the hero and heroine share a beautiful love story. Hengist and three of his fellow Saxons are captured by slavers and sent to Rome. Rowena one of the beautiful Saxons, is sold first and she is terrified to leave Hengist to whom she is betrothed. Hengist is about to be whipped for insubordination at the slave market but is rescued by a girl. She actually throws herself in front of the whip. Elowyn is drawn to the beautiful young slave, he is only 16 and she is about 14, and begs her step-father to buy them. He does so because he is a compassionate man and promises that they can earn their freedom. Hengist hates being a slave but is enchanted with Elowyn. She learns to speak in the Saxon tongue, taught by a servant named Gilda, who constantly warns her that the slaves are not to be trusted. Elowyn is not a Roman but a Welsh lady supposedly descended from Guinevere herself. Hengist and Elowyn have a sweet romance and she plans on leaving with Hengist when he plans an escape but jealousy and mistrust abound and they are separated. She is heartbroken and Hengist believes he can never love again. Ten years later, Hnigist is back in Briton and doing his King's bidding by suppressing some Welsh rebels when he is attacked by Welsh warriors. He counterattacks and captures their leader who turns out to be his true love Elowyn. She has returned to her home land with her uncle. These two warriors are completely smitten with each other still, but they have a mountain of distrust between them, however they manage a completely sweet romance that moves into a passionate relationship. There is so much turmoil in Briton with rival kings and dangerous assassination plots that it became a bit confusing. In fact, this politically maneuvering and endless fighting was the one drawback I have about this novel. The characters more than make up for this though, especially Elowyn who is smart and really compassionate and insightful. There are some deeply moving scenes with her that do not even include her true love Hengist that are a beautifully written. Elowyn possesses all the skills of a warrior, counselor, friend and life partner. There are plenty of surprises in this novel also. This is the first book I have read by this author and I must say I am impressed. I plan on reading more of her novels.