It's a very cool premise but this book simply takes too long to get to the point. I was intrigued, but ultimately put the book down for a long time. I need a little more speed or something more to keep me hooked. But the unreliable narrator is an interesting twist.

Janella Angeles is an author to watch.

Like a dazzling stage performance, Where Dreams Descend is one of those books that draws you in and keeps you mesmerized until the show is over. I picked this up on the promise of magic and showmanship, and this story delivered on both fronts with a dark, lovely atmosphere. Outside the main city, threads and hints point to a complex world with a great deal more below the surface. I want to know more about everyone and everything, from the local seamstress to the lands beyond the woods. I could have lingered in this world and among these characters for much longer, and I can't wait to read the next one.

This was an ambitious performance, with immediate comparisons to The Night Circus (certainly a tough act to follow). There are two reasons this wasn't a five-star book for me. First is the writing style: although it captivated me from the beginning, a few hours into the book I started to notice that many of the beautiful turns of phrase didn't make much sense on closer examination. It mostly works, contributing to the overall tone of the book, but eventually the prose veers towards the florid. The second issue is with the ending: the entire book seems to be a setup for the sequel, which makes for a less satisfying read on its own. Although I knew this to be a planned duology, I was not prepared for the abrupt cliffhanger and near complete lack of answers. Even the big reveal left me more confused than truly shocked. My interest is piqued, but I was hoping for more.

All in all, Where Dreams Descend is a remarkable debut. I cannot wait to see what Angeles has in store for us next, and I'll gladly recommend this one in the meantime.

Having this book described as Moulin Rouge meets Phantom of the Opera snagged my attention immediately. And I could not have been more disappointed. I feel like that suggestion came from someone who read the book blurb and maybe the first chapter. The ONLY way this book meets those descriptions is that the main character has a job at an exclusive club where she comes down on a chandelier, and there is another main character with an obsessive personality. It's like saying Twilight is like Bram Stoker's Dracula because it's about vampires.

I think a more accurate comparison would be that it is like American Idol for Magicians in a fantasy setting.

The characters all seem to be in a high emotional state over everything. There is no buildup, because they all start out in the "dramatic and defensive" state (over very minor things, I might add) and it never lets up. Through the whole first chapter all I could think was good grief these people are intense and I never felt like it was warranted. The main character sets out to be the most shocking, stating that she doesn't care how or why she gets attention, as long as she gets it.

I just really could not have been more disappointed. I went in knowing this was going to be a YA book, but it was marketed more as a magical fantasy suitable for young adults. Instead it is truly is more of a teenage drama type of story.

i very much enjoyed this one. It is fun and dark and very much entertaining.

I liked the story very much and the characters are interesting for sure.

3 stars

This was a solid debut book as well as a decent YA fantasy. I enjoyed the characters to a point. I loved the magic, it kind of reminded me of old style magic shows that I used to watch as a kid. So all of those parts had me highly fascinated. The characters for me were a little bit all over the place and I just didn't necessarily feel a huge connection to them or the connections I guess I was supposed to feel between them. There were parts where it kind of dragged on for me. and it didn't really pick up and hold my interest completely until like the last 3o or so percent. It kind of felt in parts like this book was made just so that there could be a sequel where all the action hopefully is going to be. The description was pretty good, and the world seems interesting enough. The magic competition was probably my favorite part, though in parts I could have done without the misogynistic overtones from some of the ancillary characters. All in all after that ending I will probably need the next one.

ARC provided through Netgalley from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!

Loved this book! I did feel that the middle wasn't as strong as the beginning or the end pacing wise. I felt it was a bit slow at times, but the characters were great, I really thought she had strong writing overall, and the competition aspect was super fun to read! Highly recommend this book!

I was unable to complete the book. The reading style was far too wordy, and it didn't feel authentic.

A novel that feels like a luscious dream from start to finish.
Entrancing, intoxicating and beautifully written—Janelle Angeles has created a world in which magic is not only magnificent, but also dangerous.

I was so excited when I was approved for this ARC and I think the cover is beautiful. It was pitched for me as Phantom of the Opera meets Moulin Rouge with magic. I think these are appropriate descriptions because I can absolutely identify the prevailing themes from those works in this story. We've got a love triangle, lots of side characters who interact with the main plot almost as much as the main characters, there is magic, a strong female character who is almost infallible but no one else can even begin to touch her, and there's a mysterious guy with a lot of power. It's all there and it's all deliciously complicated.

I found a decent amount of similarity with Phantom of the Opera and Moulin Rouge, but also I saw a lot of similarities with the Shadow Game series. It's a bit dystopian with lots of people with different talents, maybe a bit of gang-ish activity, and lots of magic as usual. I also saw some similarities with the Shades of Magic series, specifically book 2 with the tournament. I found these similarities, but I think that's all they are, ultimately.

The characters have depth and the writing is breathtaking. I had no complaints about the narrative structure or the characters themselves. I thought each one had a well-rounded motivation for their interactions in the plot, but also they belonged. I've read a few YA books recently in this same genre that have completely unnecessary side characters, but these were all appropriate in my mind.

The pacing was fantastic, I felt it went quickly and the narrative/magic system/political system was very interesting and fun! I did not get sucked into this book like I have in other books. Though the writing was incredibly descriptive and I enjoyed the style, I think it may have been just a bit too disjointed in some chapters for me. Overall, this is a great new addition and debut in YA fantasy. I really enjoyed reading it and I am looking forward to the sequel to complete the duology!

Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the chance to review this book! I received a complimentary eARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Joining the ranks of The Night Circus and Caraval, Where Dreams Descends is filled with mysteries, and magic, elusive magicians, and fantastical circuses. While this book attempted to sweep me away, I unfortunately kept my feet firmly on the ground. I really wanted to get into this world - and there was so much being offered - but I just didn't get wrapped up in it in the way I would have wanted to. Kallia, the main character is fierce and powerful, but struggles to trust those around her and find her footing. Demarco, who is trying to be a broody bad boy, just kind of fell flat for me. The best tension between characters was early on, between Kallia and Jack, but eventually their interactions became repetitive, and it just wasn't as exciting. There were so many mysteries and magical things going on that I did enjoy, but ultimately the character dynamics just didn't pull through for me. The second half of the book felt like all the interactions were just recycled over and over, and I just wanted more development and excitement. I think the sequel has a lot to build on though, and I'm excited to see what comes in this world!

2,5/3

Where Dreams Descend Review by Janella Angeles

Relax. This isn't going salty. Reviews that are middle of the road are always the hardest to write. For that reason, I'm going to do two things. First, I'm going to provide a summary of Janella Angeles' debut. Second, at the end of this review, you will find links to additional reviews of Where Dreams Descend. I am going to provide a range of opinions. This way, I know you have the full summary and second, you will have other reviews to reference that represent a wide array of views.

I finished Where Dreams Descend a week ago now and have truly struggled with writing this review. You will see why. After finishing it, I went through and read some reviews and saw that there was a gamut of opinions. It wasn't a love it or hate it thing. Reviews fell on the entire spectrum. So, I believe it is only fair to provide you with all the information, possible.

Lastly, and this is an important general note for my site. Ever since Your Words, My Ink tagged me in her review of the Declaration of the Rights of Magicians, along with other reviews, I really wanted to start doing the same. I thought this was a fantastic idea. It gives everyone a chance to get different perspectives on the title I review and lift up other websites. I've seen how amazing it is with the buddy reads. So, I thought this would be a fantastic way to authentically, and naturally integrate a way to engage and lift up the community.

Where Dreams Descend by Janella Angeles- Summary

In a city covered in ice and ruin, a group of magicians face off in a daring game of magical feats to find the next headliner of the Conquering Circus, only to find themselves under the threat of an unseen danger striking behind the scenes. As each act becomes more and more risky and the number of missing magicians piles up, three are forced to reckon with their secrets before the darkness comes for them next.

The Star: Kallia, a powerful showgirl out to prove she’s the best no matter the cost

The Master: Jack, the enigmatic keeper of the club, and more than one lie told

The Magician: Demarco, the brooding judge with a dark past he can no longer hide

The Good

Aye. I don't even know. When I heard about Janella Angeles' debut I was hooked. The plot was unique. The characters had me at a go, and magical showdown in a city going down in flames ice? Did I mention those very same characters all sounded morally grey and running from unseemly secrets? HOT DAMN!

I was anticipating all of it. And it was all there. But only on the surface, but we'll get there.

How about the good I didn't anticipate? I didn't know what to expect from Jannella Angeles, as far as writing style. Where Dreams Descend was her debut novel, after all. Let me say very clearly that I absolutely loved it.

The warmest of light surrounded her, like a cloud. A noiseless halo circling and doming around her body like a mist. The glass that would've struck her fell off to the sides, plinking onto the stage away from her.

Make no mistake. Once this duology is done, I will definitely keep an eye on her future work and want to read more of her future work. This just ain't it.

Angeles also nails themes around the representation of women's place in society.

The disappearance of female magicians throughout the years is an ugliness that cannot be ignored, though others might try. Is this foul play by coincidence, or competition? The pattern is undeniable. The silence is deafening. In a world where men rule the stage of magic, it's been a public secret that any woman who dares rarely makes it into the spotlight. It is also an undeniable truth that the more others try to extinguish a flame, the greater its power must be. Why else destroy light if not envious of its radiance? Such speculation is not popular opinion, and thus, regarded as rumor. For in the world of magic, a woman's place lies in the quiet shadows of labor magic, the encouraged path. The safer one.

Kallia

Look at the bolded, second half of the quote above. Kallia embodies everything in that quote and Angeles writes her to hold it from beginning to end magnificently. She does not accept the gilded cage that others would keep her confined to, through fear tactics. Kallia is constantly told that while she is gifted beyond compare, there are dangers that would swallow her whole.

Thank you to Wednesday Books for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Kallia will not accept these limitations and finally sets off on her own. There is no fairytale outside the only home she's ever known. As Kallia finds her truth, it isn't in perfection, constant unwavering strength and or a straight line to success. There are moments of self-doubt, immeasurable obstacles, and the unknown. However, whether she wins or loses, finds truth, or lies, Kallia will do it on her terms. Her magic will not protect her, it might even cost her, and she is willing to pay it.

Jack

Could I have had one character section? Yes. But Jack doesn't deserve to be near Kallia.

Jack, however, is the exact opposite. And I don't mean as a male archetype. As much as I loved Kallia's character, her role in Where Dreams Descend, and how Janella Angeles wrote her, Jack was the polar opposite. My downturn with Where Dreams Descend, started with Jack, in fact. His penchant for popping in and out of an island that everyone else can go to, but can't leave was aggravating in itself. Layer that with him doing it at random moments to tell Kallia to come back with him, for no good reason. Well, wait... until she starts hanging out Demarco, and then it's because Demarco is dangerous. Of course, he can't tell her why, but JUST TRUST ME.

OH, SHUT UP YOU ANNOYING GIT. He was the most aggravating, condescending character and I'm sorry, but I just don't think he was well-written, well-utilized, or well had any place in the story that made sense. If this was supposed to be some kind of love triangle? It was the most bizarre love triangle ever and it didn't even make sense, because he was never even there, except to just pop in and out like a hobgoblin.



World-Building

I loved the magic system. It was unique and interesting and thorough. It wasn't haphazard nor was it anything like I've read before. But here is where it ran into problems. Execution. When you through it into the rest of the plot, it didn't fully come to fruition. When I read, "competition of magical feats," I guess I pictured World of Dance, magic style. Plus, there were comps to Moulin Rouge. And there even was dance elements! But. No.

Just a little Neyo in my life

For one, it is hard to get any kind of competition feel when you only ever experience Kallia's performance. Second, she is so much better than they are and that isn't a spoiler. It is a giveaway and obvious. Even before she even gets to the island, it is heavily played up that she is a gifted magician beyond what has been seen in a long time. I did love her showmanship and the flair she put into each performance but really thought the competition potential was missed out. Her "competitors" weren't secondary characters to the story. We didn't learn anything about them. There wasn't any behind the scenes intrigue. I wanted all of it. There was none.

The island. It was just so inconsistently built. Rules... fantasy worlds still need rules. Again. Everyone can go but no one can leave. Except for Jack, and mail. Jack can pop in and out. Mail somehow gets in and out? It was just really vague in some parts and then overly consistent and others. Towards the end, I felt like big things were thrown in out of nowhere but there wasn't any context. Maybe there will be in the second book? But then leave it for the second book and there is more room for the above?

Where Dreams Descend Review/Wrap-Up

Where Dreams Descend is Janella Angeles' debut and there were parts that were really strong. She is definitely an author to look for in the future. However, there were too many pieces that missed the mark for me to continue with the series or recommend the book. However, there were many that loved it so YMMV.

Kallia, a showgirl in a mysterious nightclub, escapes to the city beyond the woods, where a magical contest will take place to find the headliner for the Circus of the Conquerors. Her ex boss Jack haunts her as she finds her place and becomes friends with the enigmatic Magician Daron Demarco. This is a debut novel that delivers fantasy in a haunting new world full of magic, mystery, and romance.

This was such an interesting novel! Set in a world full of magicians. Some of whom work in service using their powers to build, lift, and sew. Basic skills that become a little easier, or more special through the use of magic, yet that skill keeps them on their own social level. Everyone in this world strives to be the most magical, and the elite are performers who draw the spotlight away from the depths of despair the other members of society are doomed to live.

Kallia’s previous life at her nightclub in the woods was a place filled with grandeur, yet she felt imprisoned by the Master. She escapes that place but not him and their relationship changes from friend, to lover, to enemy, to hero (?). She was obviously confused about how she felt about Jack but mine were much simpler. I was fascinated by him. A magician who could plant memories in people? That could be used for good or evil and it seemed Jack rode a fine line. Kallia herself was a mixture of snark, shine, and insecurity. Character traits I’m not usually drawn to but she was actually a really interesting character and I grew to like her. Not to sound like a broken record but Demarco was also a bit…mysterious. His place on the judges panel and his reasons for being on it remained unclear for but his growing involvement with Kallia and his conflicted feelings about her made you want to see the story through to the end.

When Dreams Descend was dark but it was also pretty special. I thought the scenes where the magicians performed were well done and their magic was easy to follow. The author wrote them almost like a fight scene and my imagination didn’t have any trouble following her direction. The story also held my interest and I didn’t have any trouble immersing myself in this fantasy world. A solid book one for this debut author! I can’t wait to read the sequel when it comes out.

❤️❤️❤️❤️

I received a copy of this ARC from the publisher through NetGalley for my honest review and it was honest.

I adore books that have to do anything with circus and magic. For a lot of readers Night Circus set the stage – hah, pun fully intended – but there’s been so many beautiful and lush fantasies that have since combined magic, showmanship and illusion. Where Dreams Descend is a solid addition to this niche subgenre, and Janella Angeles weaves a spectacular story about magicians, secrets and showstopping performances that would immerse you into its seductive universe.

The star of the show is Kallia. A talented magician who wants to break free of the confines faced by women magicians, she is determined to show the world what she’s made of. She is joined by Jack, the mysterious master of the club, and Demarco, the stern judge with an intriguing backstory, and of course Aaros, who is probably the only pure soul with no agenda or secrets in the entire book.

Kallia is talented and she knows it. Her arrogance was a breath of fresh air, but I also loved that it was juxtaposed with the reality that she doesn’t know when to stop. Kallia’s the type to crash and burn due to that rush of ambition and determination, and boy did I relate to that. She was self aware even with all that arrogance, and in the sexist society she was operating in, it was both her armor and weapon.

I feel like books in this specific subgenre are very big on secrets and manipulation. There’s so many secrets and hidden agendas that drove me kind of frustrated at times. This actually led some of the supporting characters to be closed off to the reader. See I love my mysterious, brooding figures, but we need a glimpse of something. I really hope that the sequel fleshes out these characters beyond their enigmatic personalities and secrets. That being said, I definitely am a big fan of Jack, as frustrating as he was to Kallia and me – also man’s very toxic and unhealthy, but I am always drawn to those characters, what can I do?

Janella’s writing is slow, languid and vivid. It fits the tone of the book so perfectly, and it’s that kind of seductive writing that makes you feel like you’re reading something R rated even though you are not. She is able to represent such potent tension and emotions, and while the pace of the book is slow plot wise, the simmering tension throughout the story will definitely keep you on edge.

Where Dreams Descend is very much written to be the first book of a series, and I am excited to see where these characters and world go from here. If you are a fan of the blend of showmanship and magic, circus and competition tropes, and sumptuous writing, definitely pick up this book, and be ready to cheer for Kallia in this deadly game of magic.

Where Dreams Descend was a striking debut, filled to the brim with magic and intrigue. I loved it so much!
With lush prose that makes you sigh in satisfaction, a fierce female lead who's a performer in every way, and a dazzling romance with angst and swoons, Where Dreams Descend is sure to be a favorite read!

The characters in the book are one of its largest strengths. Well-shaped, with intricate back stories, Janella Angeles takes her sweet time unraveling their stories. The end result? I was leaning in, wanting to know more, more about the characters, their worlds, just more! Kallia, the main character, was so amazing! I loved her confidence and her unapologetic-ness! The romance was one that made my heart pound, and while there is a slight love triangle at play, I didn't mind!

My favorite thing, though, is the writing. Janella's writing is *beautiful.* It's indulgent and elegant, decadent and magical, and simply lyrical. Through metaphors, descriptions, and incredibly quotable lines, every page was a delight.

Overall. I highly enjoyed this book, and I hope everyone reads this masterpiece!

Where Dreams Descend sets some lofty goals for itself- comparing it to The Night Circus and Phantom of the Opera. I’m pleased to say it meets those expectations fairly well. I loved the atmosphere and Angeles’s writing makes for an almost cinematic experience. It was easy to picture the old world glitz and glamor of glittering chandeliers and extravagant halls, as well as the more whimsical, playful scenes of the Conquering Circus, the dramatics of the performers’ clothing. The setting easily sweeps the reader away.

But I have to say I think the best parts of this book are the female empowerment. Kallia is a refreshing main character. She consistently defies expectations, relishing in it even, making room for herself where the men would rather exclude her. And while there is usually a man nearby to catch her when she swoons, she is by no means relying on them to sweep in and save the day. Several other female characters were strong and independent as well- Ira the seamstress holding her own at the card tables, and Canary, who was a very minor character but was a delight to read anyway, and the rest of the circus performers are a ragtag group of rough-around-the-edges women that I really adored.

However - I also think that this book struggles heavily with pacing. There is a lot here that feels unnecessary - scenes that could easily be cut without losing any of the plot. There is a point where it feels like the entirety of the main plot, they mystery of what is happening to Glorian, is put completely on pause to focus on the romance. I actually liked the romance- the chemistry between our two main characters is there from the start. I just wish it had been woven more naturally into the plot.

I also think the world building was a little thin. Magic is born or acquired - but I have no idea if just any regular Joe or Jane can acquire magic. I know there is an academy where people go to learn it. I know there are "magic laborers". People who clean or work using magic. I wasn't sure if everybody had a little magic, or if the academy was for the wealthy only (but if it was would the wealthy really work as magic laborers?). It all just seems a little shaky if you look at it too closely.

Overall it's not a bad debut effort. I' am genuinely curious to see where the author is going with it- who the real villain in this story is. Thank you to Wednesday books and Netgalley for the review copy.

....How dare this beautiful book leave me on such a cliffhanger?!? I loved this book from the moment I started it. The details, the world building and the characters were phenomenal. I am hanging on the edge of my seat for book 2 and will be recommending this to everyone!

3.76 out of 5 Stars

Where Dreams Descend is the first book in a new YA fantasy duology and is the author's debut novel. It follows Kallia, a magician with extraordinary magical abilities and even more extraordinary dedication and ambition. To earn her place as a magician, especially considering she's a female magician, she enters into the Spectaculore, a competition to find a new headliner for the Conquering Circus. Magic is both awe-inspiring and fear-inducing however, and with good reason. Performers in the competition are disappearing and an unknown shadowed force is sinking its grip into the city and magicians.


The beginning starts off with such a bang. Like, holey moley, this rollercoaster starts with a breakneck speed and I loved that. Right away, we get rich tones for every character, an enthralling atmosphere that sets the tone, and so many questions about the world and the magic system. And we move too. The pace dies off a little bit once Kallia actually gets to the city where the Spectaculore is, but it was still moving at a good clip. It was such an amazing beginning though. That may seem like an odd thing to highlight, but I really truly loved this beginning.



Lowkey, I was a little worried when I saw that this book was going to be about magicians and be centered around a magic show, but I had nothing to worry about at all! I guess my main concern was that it would either be too caricatured or too over the top. But while the performances certainly had a showiness to them, the rest of the story was a fantasy, and thank God for it. The world was actually much more grim than I was expecting too. I saw a comparison for this book to The Prestige (which, great movie, highly recommend), and I 100% agree with that not just because it is about magicians, but also because of the grit and the greyness of the city.


I feel like I'm come far in the review without any spoilers, so I'm just gonna finish it with no spoilers and see how that goes. :)


PLOT

Like I briefly mentioned above, I was a little worried about what the plot of this magician-circus-showy story would be like. But what I found while I was reading it was a darker,


One of the things I wish we got to see more of however was the building dark magic. I think I would have loved to see that take center stage as opposed to the Spectaculore because it was just more interesting to me. The performances were cool and interesting, but the behind the scenes disappearances were just so much more interesting to me. The Spectaculore was a very clean, clear-cut structure for us to follow along with, but I found myself always reading for the next dark magic moment, not the next performance.


CHARACTERS

Kallia, Jack, and Demarco are our three "main" characters. For the most part, it's Kallia and Demarco, but I have to mention Jack because he and Kallia had such. good. chemistry. Like, off the charts, I loved every conversation they had, it toes the line between rivalry and attraction, what's the next interaction going to be, kind of chemistry. And I think Kallia as a character, was most consistent when she was with Jack. At other times, I found her development to be a bit rocky. I'm glad she grew and developed as a character because given her background and her motivations, I would be extremely disappointed if she didn't change at all throughout this book. But that development was jumpy at times. There would be strings of dialogue when the internal tone I had for her was completely off, and it was an effort to understand how she came to be saying the things that she was.


Wow. That last sentence was so abstract. I think the simpler way for me to say it is-- Kallia's development was best when it was through her actions, not her words. Whenever there was a developmental moment for her character through what she was saying, it came across a little clunky for me. It didn't throw me out of the story, but it did throw me off the pacing.



I feel like Demarco's character had a little bit of the same issue developmentally. His best moments of growth where through his actions, not his words. His development wasn't as jolting as Kallia's could be though. If there were clunky developmental dialogue pieces, they were minor. And now, what I'm about to say may be controversial... but I didn't think he and Kallia had nearly the same amount of chemistry that Jack and Kallia had. We'll see what happens. Who knows how things will turn out. My heart isn't set for any ships yet in this series, so I'm down for whichever.


WORLD

I want to see more of this world! And I say that, not in a snub to this book, but as a plus for the groundwork that has been laid out in this first book. I know it's only a duology, but I really hope we get to more deeply explore what this world is like and how the different governing bodies, city to city, magic to non-magic, interact with each other. I also want to return to that break neck pacing of the beginning, because clearly I'm obsessed with it. :) Hopefully, the second book just plunges us right into the thick of things and I would definitely be down with reading along that super fast pace for the entirety of the story.


It's magical, it's a little cheeky, it's both grey and colorful, and it's almost perfectly balanced. I think given the way the atmosphere is slightly mellowed out and how the characters are a little less complex, it is a younger YA fantasy. However, let us all remember that those are some of the best and I think we need those young YA books so that teens aren't intimidated by books, especially fantasies. If I were a high school teacher, I would be recommending this to my freshmen and sophomores. :) For a debut especially, I am excited to see where the second book takes us and how the story gets finished up!

I absolutely loved The Night Circus. When I saw Where Dreams Descend listed on NetGalley and compared to one of my favorite books, I picked it up. While they both have similar topics, this is no Night Circus. It seemed over long and really slow-paced.

Admittedly, I am not a frequent fantasy reader. So this opinion may just be my own. Therefore, I’m giving Where Dreams Descend 3 stars. Hopefully, you will like it better than I did. It is really good at the end, if you can stay focused until then.

Thanks to Wednesday Books, St. Martin’s Press, and NetGalley for a copy in exchange for my honest review.

In her debut novel, Kallia is a performing magician for a small club, but all she wants to do is join the big leagues and really perform for the world. I loved her strong willed determination to make a name for herself and be the star of the competition, even with the shadow of her former employer looming over her.

The pacing of the book, however, didn't really pick up for me until about halfway through. The character and world building in the first half felt just as important, but I like a bit of action and that didn’t hit until the last half of the book. The slow burn romance between Kallia and Daron Demarco, one of the judges, was really organic though and I really loved their dynamic as he opens up to her and comes out of his steely shell.

Fair warning: huge cliffhanger! It made me so eager for the next book, and I can see that one being even more exciting than this tale of smoke and mirrors. Happy publication day, check it out if you like some slow burn romance and performing magicians!

Where to start...

I was super intrigued when people were comparing this to The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern and Mulin Rouge (I adore them both). And while I get the references, I was slightly disappointed by this title.

I'll be honest, I struggled with how to rate this and how I was feeling about it, so I went to go check other peoples reviews on Goodreads. It was well written and interesting but it was also very confusing and left so many unanswered questions. I was simultaneously happy and upset that I saw so many others with the same feeling as I had. I was hoping I had just missed something or zoned out.

There are so many plot holes, things brought up that don't tie in and inconsistencies. While I understand that some authors do this to set up for the next book, this book just felt choppy. The beginning and the end were the most interesting, while a good chunk of the book "the meat" was unsatisfying.

We are told that magicians are either born or aquire magic, but we are never really told anything beyond that. It is brought up about the four families and I can maybe see, again, how the author may be setting up for the next book to reveal more about some of the characters and magic, but it would have helped to know a bit more now. I did like the tie in with the mirrors, I need to know more!

I did enjoy Jack, he was interesting and you get the most out of his character and how he ties in more that most of the other characters. Demarco was ok, and I started to like him until the end... No spoilers, but I saw that coming.

As for Killia, I would have liked a bit more on her, we know she is really powerful from the start, but we know nearly nothing about her other than that. I do love that she is strong and does what she wants, not caring what others thought about her.

I loved Aaros as a character and I really wanted more about him. Everyone else, I remember nearly nothing about.

Even thought it wasn't quite what I was expecting, it was a fairly strong debut and I can understand why people love it as well. I am curious to see what happens in then next one and hope that we get a bit more flushed out characters, magic system, and explanations.

Thank you the Netgalley and Wednesday Books for a copy of this title in exchange for an honest review