This book was not what I expected at all when thinking it was about angels falling from the sky. It doesn’t really have any magical lore and it definitely isn’t anything religious. It is more contemporary than fantasy but i still enjoyed it. The themes are much deeper than the discrimination let’s on. The rep in this book is also great.
Description
When angels start falling from the sky, it seems like the world is ending. Smashing down to earth at extraordinary speeds, wings bent, faces contorted, not a single one has survived.
As the world goes wild for angels, Jaya’s father uproots the family to Edinburgh intent on catching one alive. But Jaya can’t stand this obsession and, still reeling from her mother’s recent death and the sudden disappearance of her ex-girlfriend, she’s determined to stay out of it.
Then something incredible happens: an angel lands right at Jaya’s feet – and it’s alive ..
The story starts with the family arriving in Edinburgh to try and catch a being. Jaya is obviously unhappy with this, however her sister and father are obsessed which straight away you can see puts a strain on their relationship.
It is quickly revealed that the mother died not that long ago and the family are all obviously still mourning in their own way. I liked how cameron approached the subject of grief in this book and showed how differently people can handle it. I think the way she portray the characters feelings was very realistic, with the way they all missed very obvious issues in each other due to being consumed with their own pain.
“Roses aren’t any less beautiful because they don’t live long. No one looks at them and thinks, man, what a tragedy they’ll only be around for a little while. You just appreciate them while they’re there. Or if you don’t, you’re missing the point”
I also think the inclusion of a character with chronic illness was great and well written. While I think Jaya initial reaction to finding out about her new friends condition wasn’t great, her shock and discomfort was realistic. The fact that Jaya then goes on to learn, understand and respect Allie for who she is and not just see her condition is fantastic growth. It is something more people need to do, in real life.
While I enjoyed the characters and their story, the book did feel slightly lacking. It think the fact that I was looking forward to a book about fallen angels and got something very different is what left me feeling this way. The fantasy element of the angels is left a mystery and we never really learn much about them and why they fell in the first place or where they came from.
Out of the blue is a great book but I think the description and genre is slightly misleading.
W.R.L Morris-Author 