Rebel Angels by Libba Bray: A Gripping Blend of Fantasy, History and Teen Culture

Rebel Angels, by Libba Bray, is the middle book in the trilogy about Gemma. The first book, A Great and Terrible Beauty, was an exquisite debut novel. You could read the book on their own or out of order, but it would be a mistake. The first book is fantastic, and you will appreciate the second book more if you have already read it. The third book has been planned, but not yet published. (I am eagerly awaiting it).

Rebel Angels brings us back all of the characters that we know, love, and hate from A Great and Terrible Beauty. They were already all well-developed, and we continue to learn more about them in this one. Rather than primarily at Spence Academy, this novel is set primarily during the Christmas season in London, when the girls are at home for the holidays. This means that they have more freedom, more adventures, and more dangers.

Even without the realms, it would be a gripping story. Gemma is growing up, and buffeted by crushes, hidden longings, and disappointed hopes. Her father is still a very sick man, due to his addictions, and their family doesn't know how to deal with it. Her friendship with Anne and Felicity is a tenuous one. They are her best friends, but can she really trust them?

Imagine the usual petty fights between teen friends, only greatly amplified because of repressive Victorian society and the mystery of the realms. They are jealous of her power to enter the Realms, and hate being dependent upon her power. How long will it take before Felicity is willing to act, however is necessary, in order to gain her own power?

And then there is Circe, the shadowy adversary who caused Gemma's mother's death and seeks control of the Realms. When will Gemma confront her? Will she be strong enough?

Rebel Angels is a sumptuous, seductive, exciting story. Once you pick this book up, you will not want to put it down. Libba Bray has managed to create a novel that is a fantastic historical novel and an exemplary fantasy novel. Her use of setting, character development, and descriptions are all amazing. I wish that I had written these books.