Betrayals (Strange Angels, #2) Summary & Key Insights

Lilith Saintcrow's "Betrayals," the second book in the "Strange Angels" series, continues the story of the enigmatic and powerful angel, Zachariah, and his evolving relationship with humanity and the celestial hierarchy. Picking up shortly after the events of the first book, Zachariah finds himself embroiled in a complex web of betrayal and political maneuvering within both the angelic and human realms.

The central plot revolves around a devastating angelic attack on a human city, an act of violence that exposes the deep fissures within the celestial court and forces Zachariah to question his allegiances. This attack is orchestrated by powerful, rebellious angels, driven by a desire to reshape the relationship between angels and humans, a goal they're willing to achieve through brutal force. These rebellious angels, led by a shadowy figure whose identity is slowly revealed, are manipulating events from behind the scenes, using pawns both human and angelic to further their agenda.

Key characters include Zachariah, whose inherent goodness is constantly tested by the brutal realities of his situation; the human protagonist, whose name varies depending on the edition but plays a crucial role as both a source of strength and vulnerability for Zachariah; and a cast of diverse angels, some loyal, some treacherous, each with their own agendas and motivations. The relationship between Zachariah and the human protagonist deepens, becoming a central theme throughout the novel as they navigate the dangers together, their bond tested by the sacrifices they must make.

A significant plot point involves the discovery of a hidden prophecy, one that speaks of a great war and the potential destruction of both the human and angelic worlds. This prophecy adds a layer of urgency to Zachariah's struggle, forcing him to choose sides and confront the implications of his actions. He is constantly torn between his own desires and the responsibilities thrust upon him by his position, battling not only external enemies but also the internal conflict within his own soul.

Overarching themes in "Betrayals" include the nature of power, the complexities of free will versus destiny, and the ever-shifting line between good and evil. The book explores the consequences of betrayal, both on a personal and cosmic level, showing how even seemingly minor decisions can have far-reaching and devastating consequences. The ambiguous morality of the characters, particularly the angels, adds a layer of intellectual depth, forcing readers to question their own assumptions about good and evil. Ultimately, "Betrayals" leaves the reader grappling with the consequences of choice and the unpredictable nature of power, setting the stage for further conflicts within the "Strange Angels" universe.