The Ladies of the Secret Circus by Constance Sayers
4.5 / 5 Stars
464 Pages
Originally Published in 2021
Finished Reading on January 22, 2024
Some books feel like stepping into another world, and The Ladies of the Secret Circus is one of them. I picked this up on a whim (with coffee in hand, of course), and let me just say – it’s an enchanting mix of magic, mystery, and family drama that kept me hooked.
Set across multiple timelines, this novel follows Lara Barnes, a young woman in 2004 Virginia, whose fiance disappears on their wedding day. As she searches for answers, she unravels her family’s connection to a mysterious magical circus in 1920s Paris and a curse that has haunted them for generations. The result? A story filled with dark secrets, romance, and otherworldly intrigue.
“The Secret Circus didn’t just put on a show; it changed you, reworked the parts of your soul you didn’t know needed fixing.”
What I Loved
There’s something irresistible about a story with a magical setting, and the circus at the heart of this book is spellbinding. The descriptions were lush and dreamlike, making me feel like I was right there under the big top. I also adored how Constance Sayers blended the family drama with the mystery.
Lara is such a relatble character – determined yet vulnerable – and her journey to uncover her family’s secrets was so compelling. As someone who loves astrology, I couldn’t help but feel like this book had strong Capricorn vibes: mysterious, ambitious, and rich with hidden depth!
“Every family has its secrets, but ours were built on magic and lies.”
What I Didn’t Love
While the dual timelines were fascinating, they occasionally felt disjointed. It took a few chapters to really immerse myself in the story. That said, once I did, I couldn’t put it down. And while the ending ties things up well, I was left with just a few lingering questions (but hey, maybe that’s part of the magic).
“Magic always has a cost. The trick is deciding if you’re willing to pay it.”
Final Thoughts
This book explores big themes like love, loss, and the weight of family legacies. It also dives into how we’re shaped by the choices of those who came before us – a concept that really resonated with me. As a 3/5 emotional generator in Human Design, I couldn’t help but connect with Lara’s emotional ups and downs as she navigated her path and uncovered her family’s truths.
This book is for:
- Fans of atmospheric, magical realism
- Readers who love dual timelines and family mysteries
- Anyone fascinated by dark, mysterious circuses
Overall, The Ladies of the Secret Circus is a rich, immersive read that’s perfect for fans of Erin Morgenstern or Alice Hoffman. It’s a little eerire, a little romantic, and totally captivating.
I’d rate it 4.5/5 stars.
Have you read this one? Let me know what you thought – or recommend your favorite magical realism books!