Masquerade of Finches

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