Cage of Nightingales - Paperback

by Elizabeth Hopkinson (Author)

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