1.14k reviews for:

The Circus Train

Amita Parikh

3.95 AVERAGE


I’m a sucker for a WWII novel. Add a circus, some magic, a girl coming of age in a wheelchair trying to overcome challenges, and a little romance, and I’m hooked. This was perfect for those who like the Night Circus and the Tattooist of Auschwitz. It was just enough magical and lighthearted to take the bite out of the oppressive and difficult parts of the book.
adventurous emotional inspiring tense medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: No

The circus train, is written in one of my favorite genres – historical fiction. However, it is one of my least favorite novels from this genre right now. I found certain characters, including the main character, Lena, fascinating, and very relatable. However, I kept trying to picture the circus, and the setting, and was unable to get a clear picture in my imagination. in general, perhaps being unable to find the plot relatable, was probably its downfall for me as a reader. In addition, while I do love historical fiction, the romance part of this story was a deterrent for me.

A beautiful cast of characters and epic story. I enjoyed following Lena’s journey. Her willingness to persevere and survive was captivating to witness. If you love World War II Historical Fiction/Romance this would be a great pick.
adventurous emotional hopeful inspiring mysterious reflective sad medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
adventurous lighthearted mysterious slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: No

Interesting plot but I found that I didn’t care a whole lot. An easy read and I enjoyed the historical settings and contexts. 

Expand filter menu Content Warnings
adventurous emotional hopeful inspiring medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
adventurous dark mysterious sad tense medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
hopeful lighthearted slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
emotional hopeful inspiring tense fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: No