Angel Fire

From Publishers WeeklyGreeley (Lord of the Dance) has now written a murky "romantic mystery/fantasy" about a Nobel laureate who is astounded when a lissome guardian angel in couture garb comes to earth to protect him. Sean Desmond, a theoretical biologist, hasn't been luckyhis wife left him to go into "femtherapy" and then remarried. Professionally, Sean achieves glory by observing "sudden evolutionary leaps" in fruit flies, resulting in a new breed of hardy "superflies." In New York, which he visits en route to claiming the Nobel in Stockholm, gunmen nearly kill him before the angel Gabriella intervenes, posing as Sean's assistant. Greeley explains, somewhat ambiguously, that the assailants want to produce supermen and see Sean as an obstacle. Among his other foes are members of Project Archangel, a private English company trying to accelerate evolution for sinister purposes. Sean, predictably, adores Gabriella, and Greeley includes several endearing scenes between this unlikely twosome. Unfortunately, he also clutters the story with less engaging topics, such as the theory that angels are a species superior to humans in the evolutionary process. Gabriella voices startling sentiments for an angel, especially when she denounces the "despicable" Kennedys as "satyrs." Copyright 1988 Reed Business Information, Inc. From Library JournalThe prolific Fr. Greeley continues his apostolate in this transparent and often trite fantasy novel. The story deals with Professor Sean Seamus Desmond, biologist at the University of Cook County, his trip to Stockholm to accept a Nobel Prize, and his alternate brushes with death and a beautiful angel. For reasons unknown to him, Desmond is targeted by numerous thugs intent on liquidating him. He is repeatedly rescued by the beautiful Gabriella Light who has extraordinary (angelic) powers. Romantically attracted to her, Desmond flirts mawkishly, employing sentimental "Irish" expressions. Though clearly intended to deliver a reassuring message, this modern-day fantasy is too "lite" to be recommended. Save your budget. William C. McCully, Park Ridge P.L., Ill.Copyright 1988 Reed Business Information, Inc.