It's 2099 and the United States no longer exists. In the new world of the Republic, major cities are nuclear hot zones, inhabited by wolves. Women must be nearly completely covered in public. Those who have been affected by radiation are known as Sub-Human Atomic Deviants, or "shades." The more fortunate ones work in circuses or satisfy twisted desires in the pleasure fringe. Those less fortunate are used as slave labor, and the death of a shade is barely noticed. Lilia Desjardins hunts shades for the circus, but lately she is more interested in seeking the truth behind the death in New Gotham of Gideon Fitzgerald, her estranged husband. Although it was ruled an accident, Lilia suspects it was murder. When she finds the shade who claimed to have information for her brutally killed, Lilia ends up at the police station. She bitterly regrets her decision when Detective Adam Montgomery seems to consider her more of a suspect than a witness.

Adam has secrets of his own, including the two large scars on his back from the removal of his wings. Adam, formerly known as Munkar, is an angel volunteer -- one of many -- who's been sent to Earth to try to save humankind. But with the discovery of two "angel shades" and a bitter debate over whether they are truly angels or a new form of mutant, Adam cannot risk anyone finding out his secret. He is both attracted to and annoyed by the rebellious Lilia and knows that despite her independent veneer, she needs protection. The two begin to investigate Gideon's death, bringing them both to the attention of shadowy powers behind the scenes, both worldly and otherworldly. As their initial attraction deepens, Adam knows he will be called back when his mission is completed, yet he cannot help the mortal emotions he feels toward Lilia. But will she feel the same if she finds out his secret?

This is a thrilling urban fantasy set in a well-constructed and scary futuristic universe. Lilia is a tough, independent woman who may not have physical scars from the events in this world, but has emotional and spiritual wounds. Adam may have given up angel status, but he's most definitely a hero. As they move from being reluctant allies to being lovers, Adam and Lilia's relationship provides a ray of hope against the bleak backdrop. This sexy, intriguing story will leave readers believing -- and hoping -- that there are, indeed, angels among us!

Book Summary

When her estranged husband's mysterious death is declared an accident, Lilia Desjardins knows that it is a lie. She leaves all she knows to risk the dark heart of the Republic - only to find that she herself has been targeted by forces unknown.

Adam Montgomery will do anything to complete his earthly mission, even if he had to tangle with the enigmatic Lilia Desjardins. But when his contact is murdered and he must rely on Lilia's silence to save him from the slave dens, Montgomery knows that his wings were only the first sacrifice demanded of him.

As danger and intrigue surround them, Lilia and Montgomery realize that they must work together - body, mind and soul - in order to save the world.

Read an Excerpt