By Fayth Simmons
Set in a somewhat fantastical version of 1860s era England, Elizabeth Macneal’s newest work, Circus of Wonders, functions as an enthralling escapist novel. Although the setting promotes images of affluence and otherworldly beauty, with magic at the helm, the author appears to capitalize on themes of power, control, and identity.
The novel centers largely around the character development of Nell, a 19-year-old girl from a small coastal village. Her life is a quiet one, with the companionship of her brother and father and her enduring love for the neighbouring sea. The villagers scorn Nell for her birthmarks—placed in a patchwork over her skin, they distinguish her as being someone ‘other,’ and as such, she is isolated. Her brother is set to be married, and facing his potential absence, she worries over what may become of her life. When Jasper Jupiter’s Circus of Wonders arrives in their small village, Nell’s peculiar appearance is discovered, and in an act of exploitation and betrayal, Nell’s father sells her off as a performer.
Though stung by her father’s disloyalty, Nell finds that she excels within the circus. Soon known as the ‘Queen of the Moon and Stars,’ Nell’s image is plastered across posters and she quickly gains fame. Through performing, Nell gains confidence and a newfound sense of ownership, both over her body and the circumstances in which she finds herself. She forms relationships and curates a community for herself—the likes of which she never experienced back home. When her fame overpowers that of the ringmaster, however, Nell’s place in the circus, and her marketed identity become threatened, and those closest to her must decide between competing sets of values.
Featuring an array of diverse and interesting characters, each with their own internal conflicts that lend to the overall plot, the novel is able to paint an eloquent picture of Victorian-era England. The fantastical entwines with aspects of blunt reality, with the circus acting much as a theatrical setting upon which the protagonist is forced to embrace her natural-born identity rather than the various ones given to her by others. Macneal’s writing is sure of itself and successfully delivers a believable and immersive narrative, which contemporary readers are likely able to relate to despite the novel’s historical context.
There is an allure given to the life of the circus through vivid description, though the reader is always aware that the main theme is arguably one of a more existential nature. Power plays are examined closely throughout the novel, and the balance between control and obsession is constantly being weighed – it is in the rejection of this balancing act that the protagonist is able to ultimately mobilize her capabilities and lend action to her values.
Circus of Wonders might also be categorized as a comfort read, despite the presence of some darker conflicts, as the plot is overall a relatively positive one, with few twists or disruptions, and it allows for constructive character growth and development.
Thank you to Simon & Schuster for the complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.