Review:

I couldn’t tell you what it is about the circus that’s always so enchanting, but this read had my attention hook, line, and sinker right from the very beginning. The two timelines fed off each other to produce a driving force that inevitably kept the pages turning regardless of any other to-do lists. I love that right from the beginning, the “authorly bookish love” was a thing as Chloe Whitfield took in her surroundings. I think it was perfect that she was an author, because it shows readers both how the inside mind of an author works, and also how close-to-home and vulnerable writing ends up being. And bookish love, lots and lots of bookish love haha. I liked that as the story got deeper, her character did as well, and it was interesting to see how much she grew from what she thought was just a simple research trip.

Although some may feel differently, I liked that this was not a forced romance. Because of the circumstances I think the relationship growth between Nardo and Lucinda was more genuine than what some lovey readers would liked to have happened. Instead their bond felt real to me, and was built on more than just romantic vibes. Lucinda was an easy character to feel for. Naive yes, but with good motives. She felt deeply because she was hurt deeply. I can’t even describe how much my heart longed for her ultimate happiness. I know she’s a character that will stay with me for a long time. 

I’m absolutely loving this series so far! Each of the books is by a different author and is a standalone novel, but they are centered around a different historical landmark. This was my first read by Anna Schmidt but I’m quite sure this won’t be my last because I truly enjoyed this one!

*I received a copy of this book through JustRead Tours. Thoughts and opinions expressed are mine alone.