I read this book because I found myself bombarded with recommendations and was even sent a free copy in an attempt to make me read it. Not one to disappoint my fans, I read it.
And I'm glad I did because I really liked it.
The book tells the story of a magical circus that appears out of nowhere with nothing more than a sign on the gate with opening hours on - twilight until dawn. Inside this circus are a range of exciting people but in particular are two "gifted" twins and a pair of illusionists trapped in a challenge they don't understand.
This is a very pretty book. As I read the first pages I could see the glorious circus unfolding around me so vividly that I could have been watching a film. And this continues throughout the book. The circus is so well constructed that you feel as if you have actually visited it and it becomes as important to you as it is to the performers. And it's not just the look of the circus that catches your imagination as Morgenstern manages to express the sounds and scents and even feel of the circus as well.
As much time has been put into the creation of the characters and their mixed up relationships as has been devoted to the circus. The characters are so
And I'm glad I did because I really liked it.
The book tells the story of a magical circus that appears out of nowhere with nothing more than a sign on the gate with opening hours on - twilight until dawn. Inside this circus are a range of exciting people but in particular are two "gifted" twins and a pair of illusionists trapped in a challenge they don't understand.
This is a very pretty book. As I read the first pages I could see the glorious circus unfolding around me so vividly that I could have been watching a film. And this continues throughout the book. The circus is so well constructed that you feel as if you have actually visited it and it becomes as important to you as it is to the performers. And it's not just the look of the circus that catches your imagination as Morgenstern manages to express the sounds and scents and even feel of the circus as well.
As much time has been put into the creation of the characters and their mixed up relationships as has been devoted to the circus. The characters are so
unique that it is impossible to like them all and everyone I have spoken to about the book has loved some and loathed others.
My favourite elements of the book were the vivid circus itself and the intensity of the main characters' relationship. Morgenstern writes such passion and emotion into their encounters that I was completely gripped, even though I wasn't that keen on either of them as individuals.
This book is initially a slow-burner as Morgenstern introduces new threads and characters to be brought together in the end. But as is often the case with a slow-burner, that final climactic meeting feels rushed. The climax is brief and confusing and, although this adds to the sense of mystery and never being completely sure of yourself in this world of illusion, I would have liked a bit more.
But overall I really liked this book and I will definitely listen to my recommenders again. It was a perfect escape from the dreary English November to delve into a world of romance, action, mystery and magic.
My favourite elements of the book were the vivid circus itself and the intensity of the main characters' relationship. Morgenstern writes such passion and emotion into their encounters that I was completely gripped, even though I wasn't that keen on either of them as individuals.
This book is initially a slow-burner as Morgenstern introduces new threads and characters to be brought together in the end. But as is often the case with a slow-burner, that final climactic meeting feels rushed. The climax is brief and confusing and, although this adds to the sense of mystery and never being completely sure of yourself in this world of illusion, I would have liked a bit more.
But overall I really liked this book and I will definitely listen to my recommenders again. It was a perfect escape from the dreary English November to delve into a world of romance, action, mystery and magic.
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