Reviews - The Circus Train

1.14k reviews for:

The Circus Train

Amita Parikh

3.95 AVERAGE

lydiajoreads's review against another edition

3.75

emotional mysterious medium-paced

botopsy's review against another edition

3.0

I read this book as a part of the Book Of The Month's December reads. I must say that I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The plot revolves around the protagonist, Lena, her father, and her childhood friend Alexandre. The story spans from before World War II to after it. It also portrays the complication of a Jew whose identity is kept hidden from the Nazi authorities during WW II. Needless to say, throughout the book, the reader develops compassion for the protagonist. I rooted for Lena from the start of the book. I really enjoyed the author's writing. I would describe the book using two words - Heartbreaking and Beautiful. I loved this book's intricate plot, mostly playing in the present but also carrying mind-blogging suspense till the end.

I also low-key liked the fact that the author did not focus to make this book about WW II but she used it as a prop to portray the story beautifully.

I love how each character has its own arc and how easily one can connect with each character. Besides rooting for the protagonist, Lena, I also found myself rooting for other characters as well. It is like reading a real story that happened during the WW II period. The author was successfully capable of showing women's empowerment through Leana and her tutor who is a female. It's been a long time since I read such intricate characters, I really loved reading the characters.

All in all, if you're looking for a refreshing read, pick this book without a second thought. The plot, the characters and the writing are totally worth it! Plus it's a quick read, too.

orangeyreads's review against another edition

3.5

adventurous medium-paced

Plot or Character Driven: Plot

Strong character development: Complicated

Loveable characters: Complicated

Diverse cast of characters: Complicated

Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

I wanted to like it more than I did! I liked the concept, but the time jumps just felt like they glossed over actual character development? It made it feel choppy and messed with the tension the author was trying to build.