There is nothing
more magical to a child, and many adults I’m sure, as the circus. I have been several times, and it never fails
to thrill and amaze me. I’m the kind of
person who likes to try to see behind the scenes. I like to try to watch the props change and
the performers as they prepare their acts.
But inevitably my attention is drawn away by something happening
elsewhere and I don’t see the changes. I
guess that’s what makes it so magical.
That’s one of the reasons that I loved The Ringmaster’s Wife so much.
It’s an in-depth look at what happens (or at least what used to happen
in the ‘20s) behind the scenes of “the greatest show on earth.”
This book is
really two stories, that come together to form one in the end. Part of the story is centered on Mable Ringling,
and her marriage to and life with John Ringling, one of the founders of the
Ringling Brothers Circus. Mable is a
kind woman, who never fails to reach out and touch the lives of those around
her. One of the lives she touches is
that of Rosamund Easling. Rosamund’s
father sold her beautiful horse to the circus, and instead of letting him go,
Rosamund traveled with him and took a job as a trick rider. She has much to learn along the way about
life, love and finding her place in the world.
She is under the care of Colin Keary, the man who runs the day-to-day
operations of the circus. Just when she
thinks she’s ready to give her heart to him, she suffers a tragic accident that
may steal everything she’s worked for.
Through Mable’s kindness and encouragement, she can find the way back to
life and her dreams again.
This book was so
beautifully written. This is the first
book by Kristy Cambron that I have read, but I know it won’t be the last. She whets your appetite in the prologue, so
that you have a little idea what’s going to happen, but the journey is
beautiful and intriguing. It’s really a
wonderful story. The characters were
well-written, and believable, which I think can be more difficult when they’re
based on real people. I loved the
descriptions given of the animals and the big top, as well as the Ringling’s
beautiful estate the Ca’D’Zan. It was so
fun to see it all through Rosamund’s eyes, as she saw and learned it for the
first time, too. Mable and John Ringling’s
story was so sweet, and I did like Rosamund’s character, but Colin was my favorite. I loved imagining his Irish accent, and the
way he watched out for Rosamund and took care of her was so sweet. My only issue with the book is the fact that
I never read where either John Ringling or Colin Keary was called the
ringmaster. I guess technically Mable
was the title character, but I can’t be sure.
I highly
recommend this book for anyone who is looking for something a little different
from the ordinary love story. If you’re
even a little fan of the circus, you’re sure to love it, too. This one gets two thumbs up from me!
Happy Reading!
Lyndsie
I received an advanced copy of this book
from the publisher in exchange for this review.
All opinions are my own, and a favorable review was not required. Look for The Ringmaster’s Wife on
or around June 4, or pre-order your copy now!
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