The Carnivale of Curiosities

By: Amiee Gibbs

Narrated by: James Langton

Length: 14 hrs and 14 mins

Publisher's summary

“Unique and emotionally engaging” (Booklist, Starred Review), a dazzling gothic tale of Faustian bargains, jealousy, and murder set in a spectacular circus, where star-crossed lovers' destinies are forged at an unexpected price: "A wonderfully imagined and fiendishly clever debut" (Colson Whitehead).

In Victorian London, where traveling sideshows are the very pinnacle of entertainment, there is no more coveted ticket than Ashe and Pretorius' Carnivale of Curiosities. Each performance is a limited engagement, and London's elite boldly dare the dangerous streets of Southwark to witness the Carnivale's astounding assemblage of marvels. For a select few, however, the real show begins behind the curtain. Rumors abound that the show’s proprietor, Aurelius Ashe, is more than an average magician. It's said that for the right price, he can make any wish come true. No one knows the truth of this claim better than Lucien the Lucifer, the Carnivale's star attraction. Born with the ability to create fire, he's dazzled spectators since he was a boy.

When Odilon Rose, one of the most notorious men in London, comes calling with a proposition regarding his young and beautiful charge, Charlotte, Ashe is tempted to refuse. After revealing, however, that Rose holds a secret that threatens the security of the troupe's most vulnerable members, Ashe has no choice but to sign an insidious contract.

The stakes grow higher as Lucien finds himself drawn to Charlotte and her to him, an attraction that spurs a perilous course of events. Grave secrets, recovered horrors, and what it means to be family come to a head in this vividly imagined spectacle—with the lives of all those involved suspended in the balance.

©2023 Amiee Gibbs (P)2023 Grand Central Publishing

Critic reviews

"Langton employs a gravelly timbre that complements the lyrical writing. His character voices are lively, dynamic, and engaging. He slips into each character, imbuing each with a distinct feel. . . Secrets, horrors, and magical elements crackle with promise as Langton’s bewitching narration captures the ear."—Audiofile Magazine

"A wonderfully imagined and fiendishly clever debut."—Colson Whitehead, author of Harlem Shuffle

“A mesmerizing, gothic tale of magic and danger, The Carnivale of Curiosities is an enthralling feat of imagination.”—Jenny Jackson, author of Pineapple Street

“The Carnivale of Curiosities is a glowing ember of a novel. Amiee Gibbs has expertly crafted a universe that simmers with infinite possibilities and burns with life-altering danger. Her characters—a circus troupe in Victorian London—will stay with you long after reading.”—Clemence Michallon, author of The Quiet Tenant

magical!

Not since the night circus have I enjoyed a historical fantasy this much. it's dark but delicious.