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A review by readingrobin
The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
emotional
inspiring
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
People, both in person and online, have been hyping this book up to me for years. It's definitely one of those books that blew up in the bookish world, as I see countless references to it in literary circles and a few best of and favorites list. Naturally, it makes one hesitant to pick it up, as who knows if it could truly live up to all its glowing recommendations and overwhelming presence. Fortunately for me, The Night Circus' magic has ensnared yet another reader.
The writing has this low key, subtle charm to it. I loved that, even though we got answers to some of the mysteries surrounding the characters and backgrounds, there are still some elements that remain in the shadows. Though I tagged this book as a favorite, it didn't have that feel as it initially lacked that instant spark of connection that comes with being truly invested in a story. But it wasn't until I was nearly finished that, with this book,it came more from a deep feeling of comfort rather than a wondrous exhilaration at the world's magic. There's a soothingness here, even when there's a hint of subterfuge and darkness to it.
The creativity behind the circus' tents and acts are astounding and are best for those with a great imagination. I love stories with circus motifs, so I may be a bit biased, but the story absolutely takes full advantage of the wondrous possibilities of its setting. While the plot itself seems a bit up in the air, kind of going wherever it wants when it wants, I feel like it's suitable for a story about a magical circus, as even your typical ones are just places of chaos.
If anything, I think my only complaint would be that I wish some characters had a bit more weight to them. Bailey in particular felt like such a blank slate that where he ultimately ends up in the book feels a little bit off, which I think could have worked if he was given a bit more personality. But I think it's only a minor gripe. Aside from that, this was a delight to finally read.
The writing has this low key, subtle charm to it. I loved that, even though we got answers to some of the mysteries surrounding the characters and backgrounds, there are still some elements that remain in the shadows. Though I tagged this book as a favorite, it didn't have that feel as it initially lacked that instant spark of connection that comes with being truly invested in a story. But it wasn't until I was nearly finished that, with this book,it came more from a deep feeling of comfort rather than a wondrous exhilaration at the world's magic. There's a soothingness here, even when there's a hint of subterfuge and darkness to it.
The creativity behind the circus' tents and acts are astounding and are best for those with a great imagination. I love stories with circus motifs, so I may be a bit biased, but the story absolutely takes full advantage of the wondrous possibilities of its setting. While the plot itself seems a bit up in the air, kind of going wherever it wants when it wants, I feel like it's suitable for a story about a magical circus, as even your typical ones are just places of chaos.
If anything, I think my only complaint would be that I wish some characters had a bit more weight to them. Bailey in particular felt like such a blank slate that where he ultimately ends up in the book feels a little bit off, which I think could have worked if he was given a bit more personality. But I think it's only a minor gripe. Aside from that, this was a delight to finally read.