Elizabeth Hopkinson
Two years ago, Tammo and Carlo saved Celestina’s life—and bound themselves in a sacred vow to the Archangel Michael. Now, Tammo’s rare gift as a bird-charmer has made him a favorite of the nobility, and Carlo’s voice is taking Angelio’s opera world by storm. But beneath beauty and success, tangled feelings churn between the three of them: love, duty, and truths too long unspoken.
When the alluring and dangerous Marchesa della Pamina offers Tammo a commission, it sets off a chain of betrayals that threatens to unravel their bond and expose Carlo’s secret.
Set in a lush, operatic world of masks, angels, and forbidden longing, Masquerade of Finches is a story of courage, found family, and queer identity—featuring a tender portrayal of an asexual, nonbinary eunuch at its heart.
"Compelling thoughout and very accomplished"
- Patience Agbabi
Book 2 - Masquerade of Finches
A vow to an archangel. A web of unspoken love. A commission that could shatter it all.
Buy a limited, signed copy
Listen to an extract
In a highly-structured eighteenth-century society, the city state of Angelio is known for two things: its music, and its guardian, the Archangel Michael.
If you could make your friend's wish come true,
what would you risk?
Shortlisted for the Tempest Prize
(Northern Writers Awards)
Book 1 - Cage of Nightingales
Select Buying Links - Inddependent Bookshops
At Angelio’s music school—nicknamed the Cage of Nightingales—castrato singer Carlo is headed for fame at the opera … at the price of personal freedom. Charity pupil Tammo hates the school and everyone in it, and wants to live in the woods, charming birds with his flute.
When Tammo meets Carlo, their lives change forever. With the help of the Archangel, they can grant to each other whatever their hearts desire. But staying true isn’t easy, and their choices will affect not just their futures, but that of Celestina—a young aristocrat destined to be the third person in their relationship.
For all things Angelio, follow
@angeliocitystate on Threads