Elizabeth Hopkinson
A vow to an archangel. A web of unspoken love. A commission that could shatter it all.
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 acclaim, tangled feelings churn between the three of them: love, duty, and truths too long unspoken.
When 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 most closely guarded secret.
As Carnival season draws them into a glittering world of masks and misdirection, desire and jealousy begin to distort the very gifts that once bound them together. And when trust falters, even an angel’s blessing may not be enough to hold them
Masquerade of Finches is a story of fragile devotion, found family, and queer identity—featuring a tender portrayal of an asexual, nonbinary eunuch at its heart.
Shortlisted for the Tempest Prize
“Compelling throughout and very accomplished.” - Patience Agbabi
“Left me with a lump in my throat! It was so very heartwarming and a perfect paean to friendship!” - Neil Zoladkiewicz
Book 2 - Masquerade of Finches
Listen to an extract
If you could make your friend's wish come true,
what would you risk?
Book 1 - Cage of Nightingales
Two boys. One meek, one rebellious. Both discover a power that will set them free…or sever them.
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.
At Angelio’s music school—nicknamed the Cage of Nightingales—castrato singer Carlo is destined for fame at the opera…at the price of his freedom. Charity pupil Tammo hates the school and the restrictive future it offers, dreaming instead of escaping to live in the woods to charm birds with his flute.
When Tammo meets Carlo, their lives change forever. With the Archangel’s help, they are granted the power to fulfil each other’s deepest desires—but every gift demands a price.
As music opens doors to a glittering world beyond the Cage, the bond between them is tested by ambition, longing, and the fragile promises they have made. And their choices will shape not just their futures, but that of Celestina—a young aristocrat who will become entwined in their lives in ways neither of them can foresee.
Cage of Nightingales is a story of found family, and queer identity—featuring a tender portrayal of an asexual, nonbinary eunuch at its heart.
“A beautiful historical fantasy” - Lindsey Barger, Read With Lindsay Book Reviews
“A baroque masterpiece!” - Neil Zoladkiewicz
“A beautiful story of music and friendship” - Sally R, Amazon
“A truly fascinating, often suspenseful and rewardingly complex story.” - Ultraviolet, Amazon
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