A disillusioned warrior, Zemolai, faces the consequences of her actions and must navigate a world torn apart by religious zealotry and fascism. Through two timelines, the story explores themes of indoctrination, redemption, and the complexities of personal and societal beliefs.

The Wings Upon Her Back by Samantha Mills is a triumphant debut novel that deftly weaves together complex themes of faith, fascism, disillusionment, and unquestioning loyalty in a riveting science-fantasy setting. This gripping tale follows the journey of Zenya, a teenager who runs away from her scholar family to join the mechanically-modified warrior sect in the divided city of Radezhda. Determined to earn her wings and protect her beloved city, Zenya becomes Winged Zemolai under the tutelage of the charismatic but ruthless leader, Vodaya.

Mills masterfully tells the story through two parallel timelines – Zenya's idealistic past and Zemolai's disillusioned present. As the narrative unfolds, readers witness Zenya's transformation into a loyal enforcer and her eventual fall from grace after a single act of mercy. Stripped of her wings and cast out by her sect, Zemolai must confront the true nature of her beliefs, her leader, and the sleeping gods that once guided their city.

The worldbuilding in The Wings Upon Her Back is nothing short of spectacular. Mills has crafted a unique and immersive setting where five gods, each with their own followers and gifts, have mysteriously retreated to their heavens, leaving the city in a state of turmoil and war. The descriptions of the winged battles and the intricate workings of the mechanical wings are vivid and cinematic, adding depth and texture to an already rich narrative.

However, the true brilliance of this novel lies in its exploration of the psychological manipulation and abuse that Zemolai endures. Mills handles these heavy themes with sensitivity and nuance, painting a disturbingly realistic picture of how intelligent, idealistic individuals can be indoctrinated into fascist ideologies. The toxic relationship between Zemolai and Vodaya is particularly well-executed, serving as a microcosm for the larger societal issues at play.

The prose is stunning, with Mills' writing style effortlessly blending beautiful, poignant observations with action-packed sequences. The use of parenthetical asides and chapter epigraphs from in-universe texts adds an extra layer of depth to the story, immersing readers further into the world of Radezhda.

While the pacing may be slow for some readers, The Wings Upon Her Back is best savored and absorbed gradually, allowing the story's themes and character development to fully resonate. The casual normalization of queer identities and the inclusion of a polyamorous triad are also refreshing and welcome additions to the narrative.

Perhaps the most impressive aspect of this novel is its ability to inspire hope in the face of disillusionment and pain. Zemolai's journey is a powerful reminder that it is never too late to question one's beliefs, to seek redemption, and to fight for what is right, even after years of being on the wrong side of history.

In conclusion, The Wings Upon Her Back is a stunning achievement that cements Samantha Mills as a force to be reckoned with in the world of science fiction and fantasy. With its complex characters, intricate worldbuilding, and thought-provoking themes, this novel is sure to resonate with readers long after they turn the final page. It is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeply engaging, emotionally charged, and ultimately hopeful story about the human capacity for change and resilience in the face of oppression and abuse.