The Avian Gospels, Book II

The second half of the strange, apocalyptic story begun in August 2010's The Avian Gospels picks up immediately where the first one left off in a bird-filled city beset by rumor and turmoil. Morgan, the Bird Boy, has gone missing after a confrontation with Mike Griggs, the wastrel son of Judge Griggs. Taking advantage of the distraction, Zvominir the Birdman wrests control of a gang of rebels from Jane, who is pregnant with Morgan's child. As these troubled characters and their minions, allies, and foes seek Morgan, war overwhelms the city. The escalating deterioration of the various family relationships mirrors the destruction of the city and the surrounding countryside, and the end of order and civility. While the ending is consistent with the characters' established behavior, readers may still be vaguely disappointed by the lack of clear resolution. 11-city author tour. (Oct.)