The haunting conclusion of a magnificent fantasy trilogy, which began
with Damiano and continued with Damiano's Lute. Set against the
turbulent backdrop of the Italian Renaissance this alternate history
takes place in a world where real faith-based magic exists.
Weakened by his contact with mortals, the Archangel Raphael falls prey
to his brother Lucifer, who strips him of his angelic powers. Sold in
the Moorish slave markets, confused and humbled by his sudden humanity,
Raphael finds his only solace in the friendship of the dark-skinned
Berber woman Djoura, and the spiritual guardianship of his former pupil
Damiano Delstrego. Accompanied by the rakish Gaspare and an ancient
black dragon, Damiano's beloved Saara embarks on a quest to rescue
Raphael. Their odyssey leads them to a shattering confrontation with the
Father of Lies and a transcendent reckoning with destiny.
Blending humor, pathos, adventure and romance, the two previous volumes
in R.A. MacAvoy's trilogy have evoked admiration and praise from writers
and readers. Raphael fulfills the promise of the trilogy to forge a
magnificent, moving saga you will never forget.
