Fallen Angel

In the launch of a series with a biblical twist on supernatural creatures, 16-year-old Ellie Faneuil desperately wants to be normal, but is weirded out by her ability to fly and to see what people are thinking by touching them. New student Michael is certain they are meant to be together: not only does he know her secrets, but he can also fly, and he teaches her that tasting blood is euphorically addictive and a powerful tool. Just as Ellie learns that she is a valuable key in a battle that has fallen angels struggling between returning to the light or turning mankind toward darkness, she and Michael are targeted by a malevolent angel seeking to control them. Ellie's inexplicable attraction to the enigmatic Michael is a familiar device, but adult author Terrell (Brigid of Kildare), in her first book for teens, weaves fresh complexity into vampire and angel lore. While some supporting characters are thinly drawn, Ellie's friendships are deep and abiding—a reflection on the story's smart, thoughtful, and resourceful heroine. Ages 12–up. (Jan.)