Have you ever wanted to run away with the circus? To be one with the weird and the wonderful, and everything between? Morgenstern takes you on a guided tour that allows you to smell, taste and touch the fantastical Cirque des Reves.
This incredible debut by Erin Morgenstern takes the much loved (and written about) setting of a Victorian London, while introducing such incredible descriptions of fantastical elements that using the mere work ‘magic’ seems to demean the experience the author creates for the reader.
The plot follows the lives of Celia Bowen and Marco Alisdair whom, under the teachings of two very contrasting ancient magicians, find themselves initiated into a game of wits that will persist throughout their entire lives. Their arena? Le Cirque des Reves – an incredible feat in its own right, gaining fans and adoration wherever it goes, alas no-one knows where it goes. The Circus arrives and leaves without a moment’s notice.
The true triumph of this novel is in its details. The enriching descriptions that engages every one of your senses brings this work to life, I’ve never felt like I could be on the cusp of tasting and smelling what I’m reading but somehow Morgenstern pulls it off. I’m also a sucker for a strong female lead and this book provides an incredible one through the edition of Celia Bowen, honestly one of my favourite females within a book – she is strong-willed and powerful but also kind and caring. The complex, and it pains me to say but somewhat underdeveloped relationship with Marco is an element that provides highs and lows to the book. While yes, their relationship has elements of true greatness and I root for them, I feel more time should have been taken to really dig deeper into their relationship and allow the reader to have a bit more to grasp on to.
With that being said, the book has some truly powerful moments and incredible quotes. A testament that you should always allow your imagination to run wild - and never forget to dream. One particular quote that I will include was said by Celia Bowen rather early on…
"We must put effort and energy into anything we wish to change."
Truly powerful words. I believe The Night Circus is a must-read for anyone feeling in not the best place and need some time for escape the realities of the real world – I can imagine I’ll be running off to Le Cirque des Reves again.
Thanks for reading,
Rhi.
Comments