The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern

I eagerly awaited the release of The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern.  The story sounded so different, so magical.  I tried to get an advance reader copy without success .  I finally resigned myself to adding it to my “to read” pile and waiting.  In the meantime, I read reviews that claimed the book was a disappointment for various reasons.  I wondered if the book wasn’t going to live up to my expectations.  I needn't have worried.

This book was pure pleasure....completely imaginative and yet fully realized, each character unique.  The circus itself was an explosion to the senses. I could taste the caramel corn, feel the masterful ticking of the circus clock, and visualize each artist's performance.  I felt cold when I walked through the ice garden.  I smiled as I watched Poppet and Widget with their clever kittens.  I felt anxious when Bailey was in the bottle tent, and I found myself unconsciously stretching as the contortionist tucked herself into a small glass box.  This enchanting circus opens at dark and closes at dawn and is both artful and beautiful, each detail meticulously designed.

Behind the mystery and intrigue of the circus, an intense competition is playing out.  Two magicians have been pitted against each other by their teachers, not knowing that in this game only the winner can survive.  At first they are not aware of the other's identity but make their moves in response to their opponent or add to a display that the rival has created.  Eventually they are involved in a playful and fun collaboration.  When they are finally aware of the other's identity, they fall in love.  Their love is deep and passionate, and they delight in each other's ability and companionship with complete abandon.  When they realize that only the winner survives, it is no longer a game either wants to win.  Plus the lives of the performers and the patrons are also at stake.

The Night Circus is a masterpiece, well written and executed.  It is hard to believe anyone would be disappointed by this book, unless of course they were expecting something more like Harry Potter.  I had so much fun reading it and was genuinely sad when I finished.  I’ve found myself thinking about it many times since closing the cover.