This was a lovely read and I gave it four stars. Overall would recommend this one to people who love romance.

Nalini Singh returns to the Guild Hunters world in Archangel’s Light, a new book featuring two of Raphael’s Seven, Aodhan and Illium. When Aodhan is offered a position as the newest archangel’s Second, Raphael decides to interfere by sending his best friend to assist and remind Aodhan who is waiting for him at home.

Archangel’s Light could’ve gone either way with Aodhan and Illium’s relationship. Nalini Singh is normally a romance writer, but it would’ve been okay if these two had just repaired their friendship too. Either way, no one would ever complain about a whole book with these two characters. That said, I didn’t really like how the book progressed their relationship.

Archangel’s Light was full of flashbacks to Aodhan’s and Illium’s childhood, and while they were sweet, they weren’t critical to the plot and slowed down the first half of the book. They also didn’t show the critical years of Aodhan’s captivity and later his psychological torment by Remus. Both topics were touched upon, but not delved into.

Further, the romance between Aodhan and Illium only appeared in the last few chapters with a kiss here and there and small compromises. Book relationships never have to be hot and heavy, but it’s nice to see more of the romantic feelings once they change that way—which Aodhan’s and Illium’s didn’t until a chapter before they kissed.

All in all, I would have liked more angst in Archangel’s Light, but it was a good book.

Archangel's Light is Nalini Singh's latest addition to her Archangel series, and this is FINALLY Illium's and Aodhan's story. Aodhan--who argued with Illium over a year ago--now is acting Second to the new archangel of China, Suyin. He feels as if he is coming into his own after centuries of struggling with a powerfully awful even in his youth. However, despite his growing sense of ease with himself, he hasn't felt complete without mending the tear in his lifelong friendship with Illium. When Raphael sends Illium to China to support Suyin, the two finally have their opportunity to reconnect, but stubbornness and miscommunication hold them back.

Though the plotline is not riveting: big shocker, Lijuan (the Big Bad) left another surprise behind, this long-awaited slow-awakening of the two men's adult feelings for one another is well worth the read for fans of the series. I do not recommend taking it as a stand alone; there is entirely too much backstory by this point. There are also a great many flashbacks to Aodhan and Illium as children, along with some enlightening insights into their relationships with Raphael.

This was a fantastic book and one I would highly recommend to anyone who likes fantasy and romance novels. And if those are genres you have not read, yet, I actually think this series is a wonderful place to start. This installment was one of my favorites in the series so far. Both Illium and Aodhan are such fascinating, complex and wonderfully lovable characters. Aodhan especially has been my favorite throughout the series and my love for him was only cemented with this book. Their relationship is so complex and beautiful and rich in history as well and I loved every freaking second of their interactions here, of how much we saw of their past and how deeply we got to explore them as people. The setting was astonishingly vibrant and fascinating, I think creating beautiful settings for her stories is one of Nalini’s greatest talents. And the world of the Guild Hunter series is so diverse and so huge by now, the world building is just astonishingly cool. There is a lot of really good lgbtq+ rep in this one especially, and I say that knowing that many romance series featuring a love story between to male characters are written by female authors for female audiences and read very much like fetishization (which is not really good representation now, is it?). This is not what happened here and I think Nalini did an amazing job at portraying more than just hetero-love in a series that is in itself already very diverse and inclusive, without falling into the trap of seeming to tell a story that was not hers to tell or fetishizing a marginalized group. Which is why I would give this book 10 stars out of 5 if I could. This was everything I wanted it to be and more. One of my favorite romances of all time for sure. I would read an entire series about these two (can we get one, PLEAAAAAASE?) and I will definitely be rereading this book many times. Of you have not picked up this series, yet, you definitely want to read this series in order, as the overarching plot is really important and fantastic, and it is also important to follow the character development throughout the books. I know the series is long, but it is wild ride you will not regret going on, I promise.

My in depth review will be up closer to the publication date (I have so much to say about this one!). My new fav in the series for sure, highly, highly recommended - it was even more wonderful than I expected.

When it comes to loving from a far and deep yearning, Ms. Singh is one of my favourite romance writers. In this newest addition to the Guild Hunter series, it feels like we are taking a little breather from the horrors of war and devastation. This is not to say that there isn't an insidious evil secret that hammers down on an already downtrodden people. It means that there is less of the aftermath of war and more of the love growing between two friends.

I loved this story because I needed something uplifting to read. In a time of noisy gloom, us vs them mentality and fear mongering, Ms. Singh creates a much needed story about survival, rebuilding and a new beginning. Illium and Aodhan have been secondary yet important characters throughout this series. These two powerful, gorgeous yet battle hardened angels are impressive. Even among the angels, they are well known, admired and lusted after. In this story, we learn of their friendship since the beginning.

The switching of back and forth between the past and the current time is perfectly transitioned in this book. I loved seeing the impetuous Illium leading poor Aodhan into mischief. These two playmates create an adorable image of two chubby little cherubs with a sparkle in their eyes. Learning about how they grew together and how many little and big events they experienced together shows how strong a bond they have together. Which makes this story even more troublesome as their current relationship is extremely strained. It makes a person question how even the strongest of foundation can be cracked and crumble due to change, miscommunication and the best of intentions.

Whilst Illium and Aodhan are trying to find their way back to being best friends, they encounter more heinous crimes. The discovery and handling of it shows the breaks in their attitude towards each other and this conflict helps them finally confront their issues. I love it.

This beautifully woven friendship built over the centuries mesomorphs into a sensual loving relationship. The deepening of their existing love for each other is a beautiful sight to witness. Along with their romance, they help a war torn people find a new beginning and help them start fresh to rebuild a once great nation. This story is all about hope, trust and love. This paranormal romance is recommended to readers who are tired of the infighting and look for hope and healing inspiration.

Illium – Blue or Bluebell to his friends - is the son of the Archangel Aegaeon and the angelic artist, The Hummingbird. He is one of Archangel Raphael’s elite Seven. At his sire’s behest, Illium travels to China to assist Aodhan. He feels conflicted. Illium mourns the closeness he once shared with Aodhan, but he does not want to stand in the way of his friend’s healing. They investigate the wreckage China’s former archangel leaves behind, but what they discover will shock them down to their core. Can their strained relationship be repaired?
Aodhan -Sparkles to a chosen few- is one of Archangel Raphael’s Seven. He is an accomplished artist, and the Hummingbird’s cherished protégé. Aodhan agrees to act as Archangel Suyin’s temporary second. He believes time apart from Illium will help him move past his trauma. Aodhan hopes they can salvage their deep bond while investigating a ravaged China. However, they find more than what they bargained for. What new horrors did Lijuan leave behind? Can Aodhan convince Illium that he is no longer broken?
Illium has always been my favorite character from this series since his first appearance. I adore his playful and infectious personality. Illium loves everyone in his close sphere equally and unconditionally, well except for Aodhan. That is just the type of angel he has always been. Someone must do something horrendous or evil to make Illium despise or hate them. What I love the most about Illium is his selflessness. He may not understand the hurt his mother and Aodhan went through, but he never begrudged them the space they needed to heal, even if it hurt him.
Aodhan is another one of my fond favorites. I could not help but empathize with him from the start. I have always had a soft spot for the wounded/tortured types. The author finally reveals Aodhan’s past, and man was it devastating. What I adore the most about Aodhan is how he always looks after Illium. Even at his lowest, Aodhan made the effort to reach out to his friend when Illium needed him most.

ARCHANGEL’S LIGHT is book fourteen in Nalini Singh’s wildly popular paranormal series, GUILD HUNTER. I highly recommend reading the prior books to understand the build-up leading to this story. I love how the author balances the chapters. One will be about the present, and then the next gives readers a glimpse into the two’s past. This formula allows us to see the bond between Illium and Adohan start and grow.
This book does not follow the standard m/m romance storytelling, which I adore. The author focuses more on the gritty and raw emotion between two individuals than dirty smut.
I know there will be people unhappy that these two ended up together. Honestly? I would have it no other way. It made sense to me. Illium and Aodhan belong together. I have always felt that way early in the series.
ARCHANGEL’S LIGHT is the most anticipated book in Nalini Singh’s GUILD HUNTER series. Illium has always been the fandoms’ favorite. Generally favored characters from a series, their stories tend to fall flat. That is not the case with this book. The author did not disappoint!

Finally. We have been waiting for this story for so long. Illium and Aodhan are finally together and we get so many answers to so many questions. What happened that made Aodhan withdraw so much? How our Bluebell got over the death of his mortal. what is happing in China after Lijuan death in Archangel's War. I am not going to give any spoilers because I want people to read this book. Singh's writing does not disappoint and I love this world that she has made.

THIS REVIEW MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS, SO FAIR WARNING, UPON READING THE REVIEW.
Archangel’s Light is one of the most anticipated books of the year and to be honest probably the top of my list for the year of books I couldn’t wait to get to, and this is Lillium and Aodhan’s story and so like many of you who are fans of the series know of the anticipation we have all seen built throughout the series involving these two. Their romance has been building and teased throughout each book and I have been waiting on hands and knees in thrilling eagerness for their story and to finally have read their book….this is PURE GOLD of Singh. I don’t think I have seen such a beautiful story that she has ever written. I had wondered if when she finally wrote it if it were to meet up to expectation and I can tell you all it did and you have so much goodness to look forward to in this story that will have you laugh, have you wrecked in emotion and will kill you with the poignancy of it all.

ARCHANGEL’S LIGHT IS A EPIC LOVE INSTALLMENT OF THE GUILD HUNTER SERIES WHICH FEATURES:
Lillium –Angel with blue wings, lively, jovial and has a charm and is easy to be friends with and destined for Archangel status.
Aodhan-Angel that is silver and gold and sparkles in the light, serious and more introverted but loyal to a fault
Archangel’s Light starts off with one of our main characters, Aodhan, who has headed over to China to act as second to the new Archangel, Suyin. Aodhan is still healing from his time being held captive and tortured and still is recovering from the acts done to him. While justice was served he has never fully recovered and gone back to the Aodhan of old and Lillium wonders if his friend will ever be the same again and wonders if has lost him forever. Aodhan and Lillium grew up together, sparking a friendship that stands the test of eons of time, its a friendship that is eternal and would fortify these two souls for as long as they lived and would touch the hearts of so many that knew them. While they are both so different from each other in their personalities, they would fight and defend and protect and stand for each other no matter the cost to themselves and have done so. But their relationship has taken a hit of recent years, and now they will both have to face up to the past, their own reservations and learn to let go of their pride in order to come to terms with their present and find a way to be together or have to forge their way apart from one another? But will Aodhan and Lillium find their path together or turn down different roads for their future?

Archangel’s Light is one of those books that you know in your heart you will come to love and to be honest I didn’t even glance at the blurb before reading this one here. THAT is how much I trust this author to lead me in the right direction and how much faith I have in her writing. She is an author that I have come to know in that her writing style will work for me, and it doesn’t matter what she writes, I am willing to go through the pain and intensity to get to the good stuff, to see all the layers peeled away and to the heart of the story that makes the journey worth it and you can bet that Nalini Singh makes the trek through it all the way worthwhile. This BOOK had me all over the place with my emotions and I am so grateful that I can trust in this author to lead me right. It does contain some factors that I do wish to convey to other readers.

First, it does have flashback moments. Now those who know my reading vibe, KNOW that flashbacks aren’t my favorite, in fact, they can distract me from the story and in most cases will affect my rating of the review. But to be honest, even though this relationship has been teased for years, we actually don’t know that much about Lillium and Aodhan’s story and the depths of their relationship and its beginning start. Nalini Singh gives this to us. In this story, you will have exchanging chapters of the past and then of the present. I actually didn’t mind it because in these chapters she doesn’t leave you hanging on cliffhangers until the next phase of chapters so I was grateful for that. The second element is that this doesn’t have much in heat. It does have some moments, but to be honest, they don’t even kiss till later in the story, so if you want lots of sexual heat, you aren’t going to find it in this one here. I feel like as romance readers we all have various expectations and considering how much heat this author tends to always have in her books, I feel like this needs to be something you should be aware of.

The story itself is quite a beautiful story and has many facets to it. It won’t be exactly what you suspect it to be. We get plenty of focus on China and what is happening following the aftermath of Lijuan’s reign and how the territory is crippled and all of its people damaged in some form or another. This is not going to be an easy transition to being a healthy thriving society once again. But Aodhan is determined to help Lijuan’s cousin, Sunyin takes control and brings back prosperity to the territory once again. But there is something stirring in the country, and it will be up to Aodhan and Lillium to discover what it is and bring a stop to it, but on their journey of connecting once again, finding their way together through their relationship, they will be met with something they never imagined, a secret kept hidden away, one that could destroy all they have gained since the destruction of Lijuan. The romance that we see between Aodhan and Lillium will NOT be what everyone will expect it to be but in the end will be perfect for these two. There are so many depths that are explored in their relationship and seeing them come together, finding transparency in their connection, and rebuilding those bonds was such an intricate beauty to be showcased. Nalini Singh really worked her magic with this one, and it will take your breath away from what you see with Aodhan and Lillium. Side Note: there is some moments we see of Rafael and his dealings with these two and my HEART just about exploded with love for this character even more than previous. Seeing his devotion and love to these men was so epic and breathtaking, It just tore me apart to see how much he cared and sacrificed for them.

Overall I found Archangel’s Light to be a romance that shines a light on a love story that will touch the heart of every reader that delves into it. It won’t be an easy journey, but it’s one that will guide the reader to a majestic love story of sacrifice, devotion, healing, and the power of love in the darkest of moments. We see a history of friendship and male love that will take you to the stars and back in its inherent beauty. A romance that is a GOLD STAR of a reader and I feel like this is just the beginning in their journey into….FOREVER.

Well this book has been so many years in the making, and it’s finally here! Considering we’ve been waiting for ilium & aodhans story for years there was a lot of expectation for this book to try to meet. This is also (to my knowledge) Singh first book that doesn’t feature a f/m relationship so that also caused a lot of anticipation in me, wondering how it would go. My opinion is that it was ok. The world building was as excellent as ever and I enjoyed getting to know Suyin & see what’s going on in China now that Lijuan is gone. And the relationship building was good too, it’s just that the relationship being developed for the first 92% of the book was friendship. Literally 92% of the book focused on ilium & aodhan rebuilding their friendship, & on showing us them growing up together. It was beautifully developed and the characters were well written, it just wasn’t my expectation for a romance story because the characters only think of each other as friends until the 93% mark in the story. And then they are apart for the next 5%, so we basically get about 2% of the story of them thinking of each other as more than friends. Amd don’t get me wrong, Singh is infamous at the slow burn and most of her books are slow burn, with sexual intimacy frequently not occurring until the 75% mark but the characters usually spent time throughout the book considering each other as potential romantic partners, grappling with romantic desire for the other, & encountering & overcoming potential obstacles to being together. We don’t get any of that in this book though, the characters don’t think of each other as maybe more than friends until we’ll after the 90% mark. SPOILER****************** also there is no lovemaking scenes at all. There are a couple of kisses at 93% & 99% but that’s it. Singh has never written a book in this series or psy changeling that didn’t include lovemaking scenes so this was unexpected. Perhaps she was uncomfortable writing about two men loving each other? Or perhaps she is a straight woman and didn’t feel right writing those scenes? But she could have done a closed door allusion to it if that were the case so I was left feeling that maybe Singh didn’t feel comfortable with two men lovemaking and that made me sad. It wouldn’t have stood out to me so much except that she has LITERALLY never written another book in this series or psy changeling that didn’t have lovemaking between the couple (& both series have over 13 books plus many novellas) so it really seemed like a significant deviation. Because of the years of build up and the book then being so different in style from the others I was left a little disappointed. But the writing is as strong as ever, I was merely disappointed a bit w the direction.

Thanks to Netgalley and Berkley for providing me with an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.

I loved this one. I knew it wouldn't be as... graphic... as the others, as this is a mainstream M-F series, but I was okay with that. I'm just happy that we got this pairing. Maybe I shouldn't be so happy for scraps, but as I wasn't expecting her to actually go there, I'm just pleased beyond words. I love Bluebell and Sparkles! We got a lot of Illium and Aodhan's backstories (finally), and I'm so excited to see what comes next.

Trigger warnings for this one, though, as some of Aodhan's history is rough, and we get some information (not in too much detail, thankfully) about that.

This slow burn of a novel doesn't have much "action," but it does have a lot of events that are building up the next phase of this world's story. Lijuan's influence isn't gone, and there certainly seems to be something coming.

And the COVER. Can't we all agree that this cover is absolutely STUNNING?

Highly recommend this series, but please don't make this the place you start the series. You'll have no idea what's going on. Jump in from the beginning - you'll want to catch up for sure.

This is a book that I and many fans have been wanting and anticipating for a really long time. Illium and Aodhan are my two favorites characters in the Guild Hunter series. When I started reading the book I didn't know what to expect, I still have mixed feelings about the book, on the one hand, I really loved the past flashbacks/present-day structure depicting the development of their friendship especially since the two characters have such a long history all throughout the series, also we have the main plot of a world healing after the terrible violence of war between an evil Archangel and the rest of Cadre. There are still so many unknown variables and a new Archangel of China has ascended to rebuild and lead her territory where Illium and Aodhan are working together to support Suyin, helping her establish a new court, and weeding out the remaining danger left by the former archangel of death Lijuan, also the descriptions in this book were so detailed and vivid it was such a joy to read the books, which comes as no surprise since Nalini writing is so captivating. On the other hand, I was really disappointed that the relationship between Illium and Aodhan became romantic at the end, especially that in the previous books it was clear that they had an amazing friendship that was being tested, there was no mention of any romantic feelings between them, their love relationship felt a bit forced in the book, with all that being said I really enjoyed the book and I am looking forward to the next installment in the series.

Oh my gosh! I don't think I will be able to covey just how much gratitude I feel for Berkely Publishing for giving me the chance to read Archangels Light prior to publication. It's one of the most anticipated reads of 2021 and I am agog at the honor of reading!

The amount of chatter and excitement surrounding Archangels Light has been one of the most fevered topics in the PNR book world. I am beyond thrilled to say that it was everything I wanted and more. The dual perspectives in time and the switching POV of both Aodham and Illiam as they grow and have experiences were absolute perfection.

Getting to see how many of the Seven played a role or interacted with both was heartwarming and just strengthened the way I feel about them all as a unit. I loved it so much I have already read it twice. I can't wait for everyone to read it. October isn't far away now.

~Tanja

First of all, this cover is gorgeous and holds a special place in my heart because seeing this cover reminds me of the immense amount of sheer joy when I realized that not only was Nalini Singh finally giving us Illium and Aodhan’s books, they were going to get their story together. It seemed like a distant hope and I’m so glad that Nalini ventured forth to give us this queer love story we have all been waiting and hoping for.

This book is an emotional journey. Not only because we go through the many trials, ordeals, and heartbreaks Illium and Aodhan each faced in their lives, but also because it takes place in a ravaged China still healing from the destruction Lijuan wrought. The chapters set in present day take place for a majority of the book over a short span of time (seemingly a week or two?) but the flashback chapters span the entirety of their friendship. With the combination, Nalini builds such a strong emotional investment in their story, even if we weren’t already in that headspace after the rest of the series. These two have been through SO MUCH and have such a strong bond that has weathered ordeals no being should ever have to go through. Despite the short time frame of the present day portion of the book, this was the ultimate slow burn of a romance and it was incredibly poignant.

Their story feels complete but at the same time I am greedy and want to see more. While they had moments of joy, I want to see more when they are not surrounded by the haunting desolation that is China in this series’ world. This book contains some pretty dark content and themes, and while I think it was fairly well balanced, it is something people should keep in mind when diving in.

This is a wonderful culmination of a relationship we’ve seen change dramatically in the last several books. It is the story I wanted--with glimpses inside the heads of both leads. Both beloved characters and neither the clear lead of the story. They’re working together on a creepy mystery in China adding a touch of suspense to the story but the true focus is the settling of their relationship. Both angels have been deeply traumatized by their experiences and the book is an exploration of their healing--individually, as friends, and eventually as lovers. I appreciated the care with which that friendship and romance have been handled. And I can't wait to see them both back home in New York with the rest of my favorite characters continuing to grow as a couple. Note, this is definitely not the place to start in this series. You need a solid grounding in Aodhan and Illium’s story--but that background makes the ending that much sweeter.

The anticipation I felt upon discovering this was Aodhan and Illium’s book was so intense. Then the cover reveal! *swoons* I’ve been bouncing back and forth between excited and trying not to get too excited because I just wanted to enjoy the book for what it is and not go in with any expectations of how the story would go.
This review contains spoilers because I want to talk about both the story and the growth of the characters throughout the series. Otherwise it’s just going to be me squeeing about it all the way through, haha.
The story opens with Aodhan having been with Suyin in China for a year, on loan as her second as she attempts to rebuild after events in previous books (if nothing else, readers should read at least Archangel’s War and Archangel’s Sun before this book; while the story stands on it own, series reader will have a richer understanding of previous events). Raphael knows it’s very likely that Aodhan will be offered a permanent position, so he sends Illium to help him out with the rebuilding. Because Aodhan and Illium have been best friends since childhood, through the best and worst of times. Lately though, not as close as they once were, and Illium’s wondering if they even have a friendship left to salvage.
The book goes between past (“yesterday”) and present events, filling in the gaps on their personal timelines that readers have learned about from other books and showing how tightly bound they are to each other. Their time apart has given them time to reflect on themselves as individuals and reuniting and hashing things out is also going in this direction. I would say this is the focus of the book, getting them to this current point where they’re recognizing each others’ growth and realizing that their feelings lie in a different direction than they have previously as they get to know each other as they are now. Aodhan and Illium are left behind to investigate a village where 51 people have simply vanished, leaving their possessions behind. In Lijan’s former territory, only the worst is assumed.
I honestly don’t know how Nalini Singh does it, drawing me into her worlds every single time, unable to put the book down. Her writing just makes me feel so deeply - whether it’s the horror of a creepy discovery or the warmth of love between two characters.
Because this is a long running series, I am hoping we get another (or more!) books with Aodhan and Illium as the M/Cs. But only Nalini can answer that.

This is Illium and Aodhan's story. Through flashbacks we see key events in their 500 year long friendship from the time they met as baby angels to the current day in a Lijuan-ravaged China. We finally get the story of what happened to Aodhan when he was captured and imprisoned for twenty-three months of torture and then took 200 years of seclusion to come to terms with it and rebuild himself. We learn more about the hidden fractures in Illium too.

Aodhan and Illium have been at odds for the past year since the final defeat of Lijuan. Illium's need to protect is coming into direct conflict with Aodhan's need to be independent and strong on his own. Aodhan being seconded to Suyin - China's newly ascended archangel - threatens to make their quarrel and separation a permanent thing.

But Raphael isn't going to give up one of his Seven to Suyin without a fight. He knows she wants to offer Aodhan the permanent position as her second since she asked him for permission to approach him. Raphael's secret weapon is Illium who he sends to China to provide more help for Suyin. He ceratinly hopes that will cause Illium and Aodhan to mend their differences and also bring them back to New York as parts of his Seven.

Flashbacks show how the relationship between the two of them grew over their lives and forced proximity in the current time forces them to finally talk to each other but what each of them needs in a relationship.

While all of the Guild Hunter books have a central core of romance, this is the first in the series when the romance is between characters who have literally known each other all their lives. It is a wonderful exploration of how love changes with time. It was a lovely story.

A great addition to the guild hunter series. I loved discovering more about Aodhan's past and how he became who he is. He has been one of my favorite characters ever since his introduction. Discovering more of Illium's past was a treat as well. Readers got a chance to look farther below the surface to who he really is, making him far more of a person than before. One of my favorite parts of this book is that their friendship was repaired before anything else happened. Although there were times when I wanted to reach through the pages and shake them both. I do wish the mystery in the book had more answers. The reveal was very interesting and I want to know more. I also worry that this might be the last of books since this resolves all the relationships of the core characters. I really hope there are more in this series coming.

A beautiful story of the unwavering bond that defines two souls.

Illium and Aodhan have always been soulmates—-whether we are talking about their five centuries of devoted friendship or the wisps of a deeper bond long simmering between then.

Meeting as toddlers and growing up together at the Rufuge created a bond stronger then brothers and while Illium and Aodhan are such polar opposites in personality, what defines these men is their friendship and love for each other.

When Aodhan went missing for almost two years, Illium was relentless in his search only eating and sleeping to keep up his strength to continue to find his friend; and when Aodhan was finally freed from his captors, Illium was always there to support and protect his friend. Even while they were angry with each other for the past year, when Illium's hated father returned from his Sleep, Aodhan didn’t hesitate to fly to Illium's side to support his friend.

And what has torn apart these men after five centuries of unwavering friendship? After 200 years of hiding from the world, Aodhan was ready to step back into the life he was building before his kidnapping. He was finally ready to face the world again but two centuries of being overprotective of his wounded friend has turned Illium into a helicopter parent always ready to step in between Aodhan and anything that would hurt him. This newly reawakened Aodhan is suddenly feeling suffocated and tired of being treated like a broken doll and his angry outburst was a slap in the face to the man who would do anything to keep his friend safe.

When an opportunity arose for Aodhan to step in as the Second to the new Archangel of China, not only was it an honor to be selected, it would give Aodhan a chance to step away from the protection of his friends and be an opportunity to stand on his own two feet for this first time in centuries. He loves Raphael and being one of Raphael's seven, but being the Second to an Archangel will allow Aodhan a chance to show the world that he is once again a strong warrior. But in order to shine in the spotlight, Aodhan needed to push Illium out of that protective stance he has taken up in front of him.

In Archangel's Light, Raphael sends Illium to China in support of Aodhan and his Archangel Suyin. When Illium arrives in China, and he and Aodhan are forced to interact for the first time in months, they quickly realize that this fight has damaged their friendship in a way they never imagined could happen. When danger arrives they can still fight as team, it is when the danger passes they don’t know how to just be with each other without being so angry or setting the other off. Both of them are truly frightened that they have broken something precious, something which is so fundamentally important to them but neither can figure out how to make things right between them. As they struggle to figure out what they can do to make things right, they both come to realize just how much they expected to have the other man in their lives forever and the possible loss of this bond is terrifying. It is an innocent touch that sparks the idea that maybe their bond is destined for something more than just friends.

While many fans are horrified and some are downright angry at this turn of events, as the story unfolds with chapters devoted to yesterday and today, we see exactly how their bond develops over the centuries and how their different personalities create this bond that hasn’t been overshadowed by any other in 500 years. We see how these evolving feelings surprise even them. But as Aodhan notes, "...angels are not like the majority of mortals. Their kind lived far too long to see sexuality as an inflexible construct."

If you truly think about it, these two angels have shared a special bond throughout all fourteen books and reading Archangel’s Light we see how it was forged since childhood. Aodhan and Illium. Bluebell and Sparkle. You know you love their friendship and we have all been as devastated by the distance that was growing between them as we were when Elena started to lose her wings. There is really no other love that could (or should) come between them, especially in light of the shaky ground their friendship has been on in the last two books. How could bringing in another romantic interest not drive a further wedge between our favorite angelic BFFs? Would you expect them not to put a love interest before their best friend in terms of importance no matter how long or strong that friendship? So unless they the end up dating conjoined twin sisters, one of them would have been left out in the cold, cut off from the person who means the most to them, and that would have been devastating to see and destructive to the angel left behind.

The shift in feelings takes both Illium and Aodhan by surprise but feels as natural and as comfortable as cuddling in a favorite blanket, both to them and to us, the readers. Friends to lovers is one of my favorite tropes because there is nothing so wonderful as to watch the person who loves you no matter your flaws and faults finally realize those feeling of friendship are really much deeper and that the person you laugh with, cry with and turn to first is truly your soulmate.

After reading Archangel's Light, you will see what I have seen, a pure love that was always destined to be.

3.75 - 4 Stars

This is a book that I (and many Guild Hunter fans) have been wanting and anticipating for a really long time. Seriously though, for years. I read book one when it originally came out in 2009. I still have the battered mass market paperback. There is scotch tape holding the spine together. Meaning: I've read it into the ground. And THEN bought the digital copy...but still kept the paperback. Because, you know, nostalgia. And book hoarding. And because I haven't had to move recently.

But I digress.

My point. Aodhan and Illium's relationship and story has been something that has captivated us all since book one. And when Nalini released the blurb for this thing, we all went a little insane. A wholly reasonable response in my opinion.

As a result though, I was worried about how all the external and internal buzz of this high would affect my reading experience. All of us readers know the damage bloated expectations can have on what would otherwise have been a great read.

So I tried to maintain an open mind and tempered expectations when I sat down to read this. And I'm glad I did.

After finishing this last night, I thought long and hard as I was unsuccessfully trying to fall asleep (because general insomnia) about what I was going to put in my review for this. After all, this is an ARC and a highly anticipated read.

So, since I already felt unsure about what was the most diplomatic way of trying to say how I feel without making it sound like a gripe...and since I lost the long review I tapped out in my quest for said diplomacy, I have decided I am simply going to get right to the point and say what I myself would want to know about this book.

Which is this:

If you are thinking this is going to be a traditional, full-fledged M/M romance story...

...adjust your expectations. Because this is just not that.

I know. You are thinking...Shut up.

But it's true. And that's okay.

Because while this may not have been quite the...robust M/M Singh romance I was expecting, it WAS a story about a friendship that transcends the definition. And, quite frankly (and practically), I feel like Nalini had to straddle a fine line here. In my opinion, she wanted to write the book she knew her fans wanted, and to which her own characters had led her - an M/M book. But she had to do it in a way that wouldn't be off-putting to her M/F readers who haven't ever dipped their toe into the M/M pool and/or who have really no interest in doing so outside this book.

And so, in that regard, I think Nalini was very successful at pulling it off. What we got here is a slow burn, light romance involving one of our favorite duos of all time. It was true to the characters Nalini has so painstakingly crafted over this series arc. It was beautiful. And I really enjoyed it.

This book jumped back and forth between the present and past pivotal moments in Aodhan and Illium's lives and relationship. If you are a fan of the series and eat up anything and everything Aodhan/Illium (which I am and I do), then you will really enjoy this format and the endless glimpses we get into not only the the lives of Aodhan and Illium, but of a few other key Seven members as well.

I didn't think it was possible, but I love Raphael and his Seven even more than ever before. And I LOVED how stinking adorable Aodhan and Illium were, across all time frames. They were just a joy to read about. In fact, I would read another book about them in a heartbeat. Even if every scene is just them bickering.

All that said, in my opinion, if you go into this this book expecting a fast-paced, hot and heavy M/M romance (in the sense that you have read a lot of M/M before and expect certain things), you are going to be hugely disappointed.

However, if you go into the book ready for a calm, somewhat slow-moving character piece on a friendship and love that transcends romance altogether, you will really enjoy this. Perhaps even more than I did.

Angela: I remember a couple of years ago when Bluebell and Sparkle started having their spats and disagreements and there seemed to be something afoot with their relationship. Like this author was setting something up for later in the series for them to have this big, wonderful romance and I can tell you right now I was HERE FOR IT. Every review after that ended with Bluebell + Sparkle 4eva. Every new book seemed to have more foreshadowing and it got me even more excited. Then came the announcement of Archangel’s Light and the cover was released…

…big shouts of excitement and glee. Yes, yes! Thank you!

But honestly, I had no idea what I really wanted this book to look and feel like. I wasn’t sure how this author would choose to tell their story. But I shouldn’t have worried, Ms. Singh does this couple justice, with an alternating timeline storytelling style that takes readers back to special moments in their long history together, while also bringing them back together in the present day. And I Ioved it.

Melinda: I was right there with Angela and her feeling of something just a little different with their relationship among Raphael’s Seven. It seemed to me that every mention of Aodhan and Illium came with a caveat that there was a special bond, that was more than friendship. And every single book, at every single mention of the two of them I would highlight those mentions like…, is this just me reading into them!? I got the chance to speak to Nalini in 2019 for an interview and she, of course, sidestepped the question like any good author would but did say that she got more questions about this pairing than any other, in any series so I knew I wasn’t alone!

I had faith that she would do their romance justice because my motto is ‘In Nalini I trust’ but I truly loved this book. I think readers who’ve been waiting and hoping for this pairing will be delighted and so will ones who are more hesitant and unsure of what to expect with their romance.

Melanie: I have the unique experience of coming to this series much later than Melinda and Angela. I basically binged the first 12 books over the course of 6 months starting in September of 2019 and ending in February of 2020. And in doing that, it was very apparent to me how beautifully Nalini laid the groundwork for the pairing in this book. I remember messaging Melinda repeatedly, asking her, “tell me Sparkle and Bluebell are endgame!!” The best she had to offer was that I was not alone in wishing for this and every single book I read, I would be on the lookout for Sparkle and Bluebell scenes, convinced that Nalini was teasing and torturing us, and yet, I had hope because, like Melinda, “in Nalini I trust.”

Archangel’s Light is the payoff for that trust, the long-awaited book about two best friends, who over the course of about half a millennium, have survived untold tragedies and heartbreak and loss, and throughout it all, faithfully had each other’s backs, sometimes literally, always figuratively. In this, the 14th book of this epic series, she finally goes where so many of her fans have been fervently wishing for. When the cover and blurb were announced, all 3 of us were excited beyond belief, and I’m thrilled to report that this book not just lived up to, but exceeded every expectation.

Angela: I have so many quotes highlighted, but I think this is my favorite and encompasses this couple and their centuries long connection:

“He is the deep, boundless ocean to your tumultuous storm,” his mother had said to Illium once, her smile wide. “He anchors you and you take him flying.”

When the book opens Aodhan is still in China with the new Archangel, helping her clean up the mess left by Lijuan. He is serving as her second, but Raphael, knowing that he is considering staying in that position, sends the man who Aodhan trusts more than any other in the world to help him. (devious, devious Raphael).

Then the story goes back in time to little Blue and little Ado, to how they met. Readers will finally see their instant connection. These were my favorite parts of the book, seeing this couple establish their relationship, watching them be there for each other, witnessing the hurt, the pain, the triumphs. Bright, energetic Bluebell and quiet, artistic Sparkle. I’ve said it before, this type of storytelling style really works for me, it keeps me on my toes and deeply engaged. I read this book in one day and have zero regrets.

Melinda: The reason I think this book and their story in particular worked so well is how Nalini chose to tell it. We get their story in alternating timelines, between the present with Suyin, the Archangel they’re helping, and in different glimpses of their past. This was particularly masterful because the world of Guild Hunters is always violent and rather horrific in areas, and this book is no different. In cleaning up after Lijuan we get to see the disaster she left her area in, and of course, uncover new horrors. So by alternating timelines, we get to have some space from some of the…more sickening discoveries.

And in the timeline of the past, we get those beautiful touchstones of Illium and Aodhan’s relationship. What I loved is that not all of these points in time were even particularly meaningful, some were just brief glimpses of either the two of them together or conversations they had regarding the other. Archangel’s Light felt like the ultimate culmination of their relationship, slowly peeling back, layer by layer, the decades of hurt and misunderstanding between the two friends and how they’ve reached this point. Nalini’s masterful care with this led to the slowest of burns in this book.

“Sometimes, Aodhan said at last, I feel like I’m pretending to be the person that you want me to be.”

Melanie: The alternating timeline was a beautiful device, giving us glimpses of yesterday, which takes us to the past, and today, which brings us to the present. Under this device, we get to see snapshots of Illium and Aodhan as they were but also what happened to make them who they are now and how their relationship grew and then faltered. From the very first moment they meet, the key facets of their personalities are made clear, from Illium’s gregarious, never-met-a-stranger nature, to Aodhan’s more reserved, wary manners.

Also helpful in telling this story is the fact that we don’t get shortchanged by the POVs either. We get inside both Aodhan and Illium’s thoughts, their desires and fears and anger towards each other explained to the reader with great clarity. And while they’re definitely off balance when this book reunites them in China, their long-lasting friendship at a great turning point, these are two angels who have always seen each other for exactly who they are, scars and all.

“To know a person’s bad habits along with their good ones? To see them at their worst and at their best? To fight and play with them through all the seasons of this life? And to still wake up every morning happy to see their face? This is love.”

While the above quote doesn’t come from either Aodhan or Illium, it is a perfect encapsulation of them and the progression of their relationship, one that is rooted in deep friendship and has slowly, over half a millennium, grown to mean so much more.

Angela- Alongside this romance is the main series plot of a world healing after the terrible violence of war between an evil Archangel and the rest of Cadre. There are still so many unknown variables and a new Archangel of China has ascended to rebuild and lead her territory. Aodhan is acting as her temporary Second and Illium has been sent by Raphael to assist.

Lijuan might be gone, but she has left some nasty surprises behind. I think readers will be caught off guard by the introduction of a new character and what he might mean for the plot arc going forward. I know I was.

As Illium and Aodhan are working together to support Suyin, helping her establish a new court, and weeding out the remaining danger in the area, they are also coming back together slowly. At first so polite, still so hurt over past perceived slights and misunderstandings about behavior, exhibiting small jealousies, then moving on to arguments and eventually heart-to-heart talks. Through it all readers can feel their chemistry and dedication to each other. I liked the contrast of a broken territory reestablishing itself into something new and better with this couple doing the same.

There might not be a lot of heat in this book, but there is a heck of a lot of heart.

Melinda: Okay, just to talk about the overall series arc of cleanup of Suyin’s territory for a second, the descriptions in this book reminded me of just how vivid Nalini can be with horror and gore. Which is another reason why her thrillers worked so well! The ghost of Lijuan was felt throughout this book, although since this is paranormal I should emphasize this ghost is metaphorical lol. I didn’t think I could be surprised with some of the actions Lijuan had taken but of course, I was shocked at some of their discoveries.

And the lack of heat is so interesting to me because as this romance is the ultimate slow burn and it’s built up over the last 14 books and half a millennium we’re all basically ready to burst! Instead what we get is this trickle of memories, sweet gestures, and meaningful glances – all interspersed with their fights and hurt feelings. And that sounds like a negative thing! But somehow it just all comes together to make the sweetest HFN for them and leave us wanting more.

Melanie: Oof, Lijuan truly is the gift that won’t stop giving (gifts that NOBODY wants). The little surprises she’s left behind are horrifying and one of them is a major reveal that will no doubt cause major ripple effects in the coming books. It’s interesting to note that usually these books contain a lot of graphic violence and are really dark. But this book, in particular, the violence all stems from things that happen in the past that reveal themselves to us (and in some cases to Aodhan and Illium) long after they actually happened.

We finally get answers to what happened to Aodhan that caused him to retreat for so long. And let me warn you, it’s dark and brutal and heartbreaking and the brilliance of Nalini means it’s handled in a way that is sensitive to both the characters and to the readers. I don’t want to give too much away but just be aware, this book may not have present-day violence but it still does go to some very, very dark places.

That being said, it absolutely makes sense that Aodhan and Illium don’t just jump into the physical aspect of their relationship. After all, it took them half a millennium to grow into who they are and also into their feelings and accept that their bond is much deeper than a long abiding friendship. So, it stands to reason that they would take their time developing this new facet of their relationship, especially given Aodhan’s backstory. (Though, please, Nalini, don’t make US wait half a millennium for this next step to happen – we’re mere mortals and don’t have that kind of time, thanks!). They’re both nervous about this huge step they’re taking that will fundamentally change their relationship but Illium puts it best.

“I’m still fucking petrified we’ll screw this up. But I’d rather screw things up with you than get it right with anyone else.”

In parsing the relationship out in this way (truly over the course of the whole series really), Nalini has given us a romance that is tender and sweet, poignant and at times, painful, and ultimately, more than worth the wait.

Angela: All in all, this book is EXACTLY what I hoped for when I found out all my wishes had come true and these two would be getting their own romance. Another reason why Nalini Singh remains at the very top of my auto-buy list, she just dazzles me with every new release. Archangel’s Light is so well done, all at once moving the series plot arc forward, while taking readers on a journey through the past and building a believable romance between two beloved characters in the present. I am so happy with Bluebell and Sparkle’s HFN, but I also can not wait to see them again. Thank you.

P.S. I’m ready for the next step in this couple’s relationship. BRING ON THE FIRE!

Final Grade- A