I have two confessions to make. 1) I listened to this book in one day, almost none stop. 2) Clearly I’ve been giving five star ratings out to freely. This book stole my attention right away and ran with it. The Celestial Isles are a magical place and it’s world of sky trains, robotic circuses, and Victorian manners pulled me right in. My only real regret is this author/narrator duo have nothing else for me to devour. In fact, I loved this book so much that I’m taking a break to read some non-fiction because I don’t think I can judge another book fairly after this one.
This book has everything. Sylvester Carthage and his producer, Huxley, have a traveling circus, the electrical menagerie. Unfortunately, they’re also completely broke. Then, the opportunity comes to compete for a chance to perform for the young princess’ birthday. There’s secrets and mystery and magic as they face others, all with their own agendas, to win the honor.
Seriously, give this book a try. It’s perfect. It has a none traditional lead, a forty year old with a chronic illness and secrets. There’s no language of sex. It’s funny and touching and hopeful in turns without being sickening or twee.
It’s like magic for adults who want a chance to recapture the fun and whimsy of childhood again.
I was given a free copy of this book at my request in exchange for a fair review.