Wing of Azrael, Volume 1 by Mona Caird is a captivating and thought-provoking read that delves into the complexities of human nature and society. The story follows a young woman named Azrael, who must navigate the challenges of being an outsider in a world that values conformity.

Caird's writing is beautifully descriptive, painting vivid pictures of the world in which Azrael finds herself. The characters are well-developed and engaging, with each one adding depth and insight to the overall narrative.

One of the standout aspects of the book is the exploration of themes such as identity, power, and rebellion. Azrael's journey is filled with moments of self-discovery and defiance, making her a compelling and relatable protagonist.

Overall, Wing of Azrael, Volume 1 is a captivating and thought-provoking read that will leave readers pondering the intricacies of human society long after they have finished the book. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a fresh and engaging take on the fantasy genre.

Book Description:
Mona Caird, a British writer and feminist, criticized in numerous non-fiction writings the state of marriage as it existed in her time. Her novel The Wing of Azrael reflects her criticisms. This is the first volume of three.

In volume 1, Viola Sedley has attracted the admiration of both Philip Dendraith, a young nobleman, and Harry Lancaster, who, like Viola, comes from a more modest background. Viola’s parents are facing imminent financial hardship, and her marriage to Philip would be advantageous to them. Viola, however, has a distaste for Philip that turns into a marked aversion after she witnesses his cruelty towards animals. Moreover, Harry, who knows Philip’s character, has given her vigorous warnings against marrying him. Torn between her feelings of antipathy towards Philip and her sense of obedience and obligation to her family, Viola must make a difficult choice.