Angelology

In that institution, celebrated for its angelic texts, lives Sister
Evangeline, who prays, tends to library matters, and has become a
creature of obedience and duty since her father brought her there when
she was 12, two years after her mother's death. The scholar Verlaine
seeks concrete evidence linking the convent to Abigail Rockefeller, and
before you can say, I found this letter, the multilayered process of
Evangeline's transformation has begun. The story takes flight in
eminently readable fashion, effortlessly folding in technical
information about things angelic and the religious life. It's hard not
to enjoy the secrets unearthed and appreciate what wings are to the
angels who secretly walk among usa symbol of their blood, their
breeding, . . . their position in the community. Displaying them
properly brought power and prestige. Powerfully entertaining.

• author: Danielle Trussoni