Small Miracles

This is a different pace from this writer's Regency Faerie Tales. No faeries, no Regency, but guardian and fallen angels doing what they do in a contemporary setting. I love the imagination that drives Olivia Atwater to write her books. Gadriel is "subcontracting from heaven" to brighten Holly Harker's life, but first she has to find her. A witty and fun read with some slight tugging of heartstrings. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

I count myself amongst the fortunate to have discovered Olivia Atwater's work a few short years ago and she remains with each new tale, one of my favorite modern authors. Whether the story is framed in darkness or light, her signature whimsical tone never allows it to drift too far into either direction. The narrative is always fun, even when danger is at hand. Her latest release, 'Small Miracles,' is no exception. While she has said that it takes a "bit of inspiration" from 'Good Omens,' it's in no way the same kind of story. Sure, there are souls at risk and a bit of the old push and pull between the forces of Heaven and Hell, but other than the rather prickly love than can exist between brethren who both adore and simultaneously irk one another.. that's where the resemblance ends. Gadriel is our main character. A fallen angel of petty temptations, they really mean no one any harm despite their job.. satisfied instead with nudging mortals here and there into tiny transgressions that tend to lead to happier lives than futures of damnation. Honestly, they're absolutely charming and they break my heart a little in this book. While the story delves into substantial themes of love and grief, it does so lightheartedly. There's always a sense of hope that things will turn out okay somehow, though there are times when it exists solely because Gadriel or their angelic bookie, Berachiel are desperately clinging to it. Holly is sweet and complex, as is her niece. Though Miss Harker seems predominantly virtuous, there are sorrowful reasons for the path she's on.. and while Ella can be brusque, that comes from a place born of pain too. Despite all the heaviness in the lives of those this story follows, it's not a sad story at all. It's filled with moments of joy and triumph, petty pranks, and general wickedness the likes of which are highly amusing.. and not at all offensive. I loved this book with all my heart and can only hope we might get another glimpse into Atwater's world of the divine.. down the road. (I received this title as an ARC, but also purchased a copy. All opinions are mine and freely given.)