Visitants: Stories of Fallen Angels and Heavenly Hosts

Edited By: Stephen Jones
Publisher: Ulysses Press
Publication Date: November 2010
ISBN: 978-1-56975-838-0
Review By: Amy Lignor
Review Date: April 16, 2011

This amazing ‘Angelology’ is a collection of twenty-seven short stories that delve into every facet of angels, and how people feel about them. From the most accepted version of the ‘good’ winged creatures who supply people with faith and kindness; to the fallen angels who are surrounded by darkness and represent peoples’ fear of being taken away - these stories cover all areas of the ‘winged ones.‘ Not only do the short stories look at fantastical angels, but they also spotlight human angels who help others in dire need.

Whether messengers or creatures of Divine retribution, every single story in this amazing book goes straight to the heart of readers. Although there are too many to speak of individually, Neil Gaiman (author of The Graveyard Book, which stayed on the New York Times bestseller list for fifty-two weeks) begins this Angelology with a story titled Murder Mysteries! This fantastic tale focuses on a man who meets up with a feathered creature, who discusses how he came to be placed on Earth. He was ‘one’ who worked as a sort of detective, looking for the criminal that had killed an angel who was researching Death. This is a fantastically in-depth story which offers mystery, excitement, and horror.

From that amazing lead-in, there are stories galore. From the very real subject of war - to angels guiding people to their destinations - to ghosts of angels, and the fear one has of human’s discovering their wings, the tales encompass all different subject matter. Two stories are stand-outs. One involves St. Peter and Nietzsche in A Feast of Angels. The other, Molly and the Angel, teaches a young girl that if you fall down, you need to get back up again no matter how hard it may be. From the end of the world to the beginning of all creation - these stories will excite and enthrall.

Quill says: “How good is good?” Very…when it comes to these incredible works that will truly inspire and 'scare.' Enjoy!