Night Circus

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Average customer rating 4.9 (125 comments)

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I absolutely love this book! I wanted to crawl into their world and never come out.

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What a splendid story Morgenstern weaves in The Night Circus! I truly feel I was late coming to the party, but once I picked up this book I was never disappointed. Full of magic and rich, descriptive prose, I found her writing style so clean and refreshing and the story captivating in a way that transcended the world around me the whole time I was lost within the pages. Exactly what I was looking for.

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Night Circus was very nearly poetry in novel form. The story and the style of story telling were so beautiful and compelling that I couldn't even function properly when I took break from reading for eating and sleeping. Songs are poems set to music, but this book seemed like the opposite: beautiful music in the form of stationary words without any connecting tune, but somehow still containing a connecting thread underneath the entire novel. I loved reading and definitely want to buy a copy and reread it whenever I need a boost of beauty and happiness in my life. As a dedicated bookworm, I have read many books, but this was one that made a huge impact through its beautiful prose and story. The timeline of the story was a bit confusing and chaotic, but referring to the chapter titles helps keep the events of the book in order in your head.

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Eric Morgenstern's writing sweeps you up until you are lost among the pages and can't find your way out. It is terribly hard to drag yourself away from this story of love, magic, and dreams, but once you do, you have lost your sense of reality and have a hard time remembering if the book was real or not. Reading this book is a true adventure that you never want to leave.

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I couldn't put this book down. Morgenstern's language was rich and the vivid details in the book made every single scene seem so real and imaginable. I appreciated her ability to develop main characters by sharing narration responsibilities between them. The nature of the ending was predictable, but the events themselves took me by surprise. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys fantasy.

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This book grows before you, as a tree would, pushing its way slowly and inevitably into you, then through you. It begins small, unprepossessing. One single bud that branches and twines until it is everywhere and everything and you are entwined within. And you are so happy to be living inside. This is a love story but not a story of love. It is a story about life. A life that can be if only we can believe it. Then, when you find this is the only novel she has written you cry.

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"The circus arrives without warning." This is the story of the Night Circus, a black and white extravaganza of your wildest dreams, a carnival bound only by the human imagination. This is the story of the circus' founders and performers, who work to create something transcendent. This is the story of the rêveurs, the patrons who come to the circus and are touched by it. Most of all, this is the story of the secret duel being waged behind the scenes of the circus. Two young magicians, Celia and Marco, were trained from childhood as competitors: now they are locked in a battle of sorcery, creativity, and before long, love. But what their mentors did not tell them is that only one of the young magicians can survive the duel. The Night Circus is a gorgeous novel, full of exquisite descriptions, fascinating characters, and a rich and soulful love story. This novel is not just about a carnival; it is a carnival of fun, magic, and humanity.

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A lyrical, lush, and breathtaking treatment of the power of love and its ability to impact even the most determined destiny. Rarely have I lived inside two main characters the way I coexisted with Celia and Marco, as I clung to the hope that love might conquer all...absolutely magical.

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Magical fairy tale with many twists and turns. Beautiful discriptions of the circus and characters.

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This was the most enjoyable surprise read of 2012. Imaginative and creative. I had no idea where the next chapter would take me. Any time I mention this book to a friend who has read it, the feel the same. In my book, a must read.

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I loved it so much that I wanted to read it again as soon as I finished it. I will read it again for sure. I fell in love with the characters and the scenery, I was hooked from the very beginning and the night circus is the circus of me dreams! I am so impressed that this was the debut book for the author and hope that she continues to write!

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Magical

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The Night Circus is a simply beautiful book that draws you in and you never want to leave. Brilliant storytelling, vivid writing... Readers travel a journey of suspense and wonder, magic and light--immersed in a world we've all dreamed of but never thought we'd get to experience. A classic from the very first page.

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This book's magnificence is to big to fit under the big top. Emotions do acrobatics in this superlative tale, as the book careens towards its explosive ending, that will leave you grasping for the pieces of your mind as they are blown away.

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I read dozens of books in 2012. Most were pretty good, but none left such a vivid impression as "The Night Circus." What an utterly unique and charming novel! Morgenstern's clear, simple word-smithing elegantly describes complex imagery and emotions. Who wouldn't jump at the chance to spend a night at Le Cirque des Reves? I almost dread the idea of a filmed version, as I can't imagine it would capture the book's delicacy and ... imagination seems too weak a word! A confirmed cynic, even I was inspired when Celia and Marco finally found a way to break the power of their manipulative and cruel circus masters. Thanks to Powell's staff for making this recommendation, I don't know that I would have come across it otherwise. I raved about it to my book group and I believe several of them read it also. I will definitely keep an eye out for future works from Ms. Morgenstern.

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Enchanting and magical.

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This made me smile, sigh and gasp out loud at the beauty of the imagery. I burned through it in two late-night sessions. To term it a Harry-Potter-like fiction for adults does credit to neither Erin Morgenstern or JK Rowling.

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Very intriguing and mystical story

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This is the most magical of books! It is beautifully written, and evokes very strong emotions. The story is full of twists and turns, and yet the ending is satisfying and beautiful. It's ahead of its time in its use of "social media" concepts, even though it's set in an era where social media did not exist. Trust me, you will love this book!

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Poetical in its writing, this suspenseful novel was fun to read.

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I read this book in 2 days and I'm not a fast reader. I like to savor my reads; however, I couldn't guess where this adventure was going and I couldn't put it down in anticipation of the next twist. Writing style is full and rich in description. Wouldn't have guessed it was a first novel. Anxious to read more from Erin Morgenstern!

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This book was simply magic. Erin Morgenstern has the ability to bring her images into sharp focus and reading the book was like living with Cirque du Soleil.

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This was an enchanting read. The author's despcription of the circus is vividly depicted. I particularly enjoyed the slow, deliberate progression of the love story between the two main characters interspersed with other characters and descriptions of the circus. I hate to admit this, but I like short chapters, and so that is one more reason to like this book. Definitely one of the best books I read in a while.

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This book haunted me for a long while afterwards. The scenes were so delightfully visual that I felt I'd been there. I wish the Night Circus would come to my home town.

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Voting for the best book of 2013 is not a easy quest. It was a great year for new writers (or at least to me). Gone Girl was so well writen and kept me guessing the whole time, but it is no Night Circus. The book has mystery, and so much heart. It is a book about true love, and real love. There is so few books that have these two things together. Any summury would give too much away and give not enough justice. Just read it. If you don't you have let yourself down, and missed out on a new writer that one day everyone will ask if you have read yet.

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This is now in my top 10 favorite books. If you enjoyed "Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell", by Susanna Clarke, you will love "Night Circus". This is a brilliant debut - and I am stocking Erin Morngenstern's blog daily to find out when her next book will be done!

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The Night Circus was so much fun to read. Morgenstern did a wonderful job intertwining the stories and times, almost making the story itself a maze contained in a tent.

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This is an achingly beautiful book, with characters and descriptions perfectly written- a love story to magic, to the circus, to fire and ice, snowfall, dripping candles, contortionists, tarot cards, mysticism, orphans, illusionists, ravens, and the written word. Set against a stunning backdrop of nights glittered with stars, autumn leaves being whipped down desolate streets, the smell of smoke and caramel and longing in the air. It is also a tale of unrequited love, loneliness and loyalty. It would make a breathtaking movie- but only if there were millions upon millions of dollars to be lavishly spent, sparing not a dime.

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The Night Circus is the most extraordinary book I've read this year. Each chapter adds to this multi-tented circus full of the most astonishing sights and endearing characters. Time is fluid, reality is suspended, and magic is real. I was heartbroken to see the book come to an end.

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This book is amazing on so many levels. It has been quite some time since a book so grabbed me that I finished it and then simply started over again, knowing it still had secrets to share with me. The story of the circus, which appears with no notice and is only open at night, and the intertwined tales of Celia and Marco; the rivalry of their respective teachers, the beauty and magic of the illusions - it's incredible! And you want to know what happens - every page leaping into your head trailing red streamers; yet at the same time, you want to take your time, savoring every beautiful, well crafted sentence. Don't be surprised if you decide to just read it again, immediately.

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Reading this book is much like embarking on a cirque du soleil experience with words. Well done! Thanks for the recommendation Powell's!

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Engaging and magical- a satisfying read.

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The best book I've read and years!!!

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I liked the story line and intrigue of this book. Erin did a great job with the descriptions of character and the circus. Recommended this book to my reading group and all the members enjoyed.

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Magical and spellbinding. Erin Morgenstern is a wonderful storyteller. Captivating, intriguing and refreshingly different. Makes you wish the circus would show up in your town!

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It was absolutely enchanting! My favorite book of 2012.

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Beautiful writing and a very original and engaging tale.

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I love finding a new author that I think will become one of my favorites and this is a book that leads me to believe Morgenstern will be one of those authors. Entrancing from beginning to end, with delightful twists and turns, The Night Circus kept me involved from the first sentence. The descriptions of the circus created beautiful images in my mind. If you like a little fantasy in your books, this is the book for you.

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One of the very best books I have EVER read let alone in 2012. Creative, quirky, warm & tender, suspenseful, unique, delightful, . . . . What more can I say! A practiced and talented writer accomplished THE best first novel I have come across! Read it!

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Wow, a very creative story, enthralling and enjoyable. Loved the variety of characters, the richness of imagination and the pure indulgence of the circus. I wish I had the imagination to write such a great book, most enjoyable!

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This was my absolute favorite book in 2012. It's magical in both writing and storytelling. I wanted to be able to go to the Night Circus and see all the amazing acts. I wanted to be a part of Celia and Marco's world.

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Loved the imagination of the life created in these stories! I picked it up in London for the return flights to Seattle, finished before landing (I had a long layover).

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Best book of 2013!

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This book is magical. Not just for its deep, rich command of wonder beyond analytical thought, wonder that pierces memory and curls like a cat around the very heart of sensation. Not just for its beautifully balanced blend of whimsy and solemn majesty, of taking oneself seriously and the laws of physics lightly. It is magical because it's the first romance I've read in ages that develops believable, non-irritating characters, whose romantic problems are not oversimplified or the problem of miscommunication obviously avoidable to any savvy reader. What a refreshing, faith renewing delight!

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This magical world, once entered, is difficult to leave!

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This book was so descriptive I felt like I was transported to the Circus. The story just draws you in and takes you on a magical journey. I recommend this book to everyone!

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This book is AMAZING! It has magic, romance, intrigue, murder... it has EVERYTHING you want in a book. I picked it up on a whim, and now I'm recommending it to everyone I know! You won't regret for one second the time you spend reading it! I can't wait for her to write more!

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magic and love wrapped neatly into a circus fantasy... thanks for the wonderful read Erin!

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I was completely floored by this book. I've never read a book so setting driven, which really surprised me. Most of the books I love are character driven, but the images created by Morgenstern were so overpowering, I couldn't stop thinking about them. The story of two "practioners" of magic was basically simplistic, however, the places that Morgenstern took these characters was at both fantastic and unforgettable. I am waiting anxiously for the movie to be made.

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This book left me absolutely captivated. It has a magical quality that goes beyond its intriguing premise. It is a delightfully crafted world to which I constantly wish I could return, and the central story is sad and hopeful in the loveliest way. It feels a bit like The Illusionist meets Water for Elephants, and I highly recommend it.

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A magical book that takes you into a dream of a circus. You never want to leave...

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Excellent read, page turner with unbelievable twists and turns, could not put it down. . Love,Love,Loved it. Recommended it to all my friends and family. All loved it as much as me.

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This book was delightfully unexpected. It centers around a magical contest orchestrated by two master magicians and involving our two heros. We follow their training and coming of age, and the beautiful and wonderous circus they create with their talents. The writing is clear and allows you to immerse yourself in the immagry of the circus because it is magic that creates the experience. You will be delighted with the win-win ending to the story.

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The Night Circus was an ethereal tale that made me laugh, cry, and exclaim out loud more than once. It's floating timeline left me on my toes about what was coming next. I definitely recommend it!

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Truly magical! (Pun intended) However, this is not 'Harry Potter' magic - the magic of this book is how it deals with magic in a very no nonsense, 'it just happens' way. The REAL 'magic' is in the storytelling - the characters, the settings, the CIRCUS! One of the most original novels I've read - and I've read a LOT of novels! Easily the best book I read in 2012.

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I absolutely loved this book. Some people have had trouble getting into it, but I fell in right away. The mysterious circus fascinates me. If you love magic, mystery and circuses, you'll enjoy this book.

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Intriguing, clever, creative. If you like Neil Gaiman, check this one out.

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Among the best of magical realism that I have ever read.

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this book was unbelievably beautiful! It hooked me from page one and I couldn't put it down. The character development and pace of action was perfection! I cannot praise this work enough. I LOVED IT

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Great first book. Look forward to her second.

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The Night Circus is complex, compelling, dreamy, diverting, and a tremendous read. Who wouldn't want to visit this circus -- I find myself looking longingly at empty fields, hoping that perhaps it might appear.

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Wonderful story and well written. Highly recommended.

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Instantly captivating, "The Night Circus" is one of the best stories I read in 2012. Told in present tense yet hopscotching back and forth across the edges of the 19th and 20th centuries, this tale of competing magicians is inventive without becoming treacly as it evolves into a love story. The language is fresh and remarkably visual - hopefully it will convey the same charm as a film.

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A magical book! Erin Morgenstern not only tells a great story, she creates a mood that will linger with you. Highly recommended.

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I loved this book - my friends loved this book - I recommend it to everyone

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Not in years have I read a book so complex, so convoluted, yet so intellectually stimulating it seems an easy read. The author was involved in the creating of the online ARG "Fallen London" and it shows. Vignettes that seem merely window dressing come around much later (ellipses and curves seem to figure prominently) to carry much import and meaning. I would recommend this for anyone who likes darkness, turn of the century literature (both of the last ones), circuses or pushing the boundaries of entertainment. I am surprised the book did not come with a companion CD, DVD, cooing dove, map or indeed silver ticket to the circus.

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I love this book. It is magical, beautiful, imaginative-- full of love and intrigue. I would read it again. I hope to read more by Erin Morgenstern.

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This book was magical and so different. Such a great story that I couldn't put it down

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This book comes alive as you read it! I can't wait until the circus comes to my town!

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Magical! An original, one-of-a-kind, fantastical escape. The fact it is Erin Morgenstern's debut novel makes me eager for more of her "fairy tales." Night Circus will draw you in just as the characters of the novel are caught up in the wake of the spells and charms of Celia and Marco!

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Mystery, Romance and Magic. Excellent story written with imagery that makes the surreal, real. One of the most engrossing reads I've had in a long time.

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Wonderful story on so many levels. The sense of being in the world of the "night circus" is still easily conjured up when I think about the book. Really a great read.

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A lyrical, lush, and breathtaking treatment of the power of love and its ability to impact even the most determined destiny. Rarely have I lived inside two main characters the way I coexisted with Celia and Marco, as I clung to the hope that love might conquer all...absolutely magical.

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Fantasy so real you can reach out and touch it. But when you try, it vanishes like smoke. Painful Poweful. Lovely.

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I have gifted this book to over 10 friends and family this year. The story had many qualities of my favorite books: mystery, love, magic, a strong female protagonist, and an unpredictable ending.

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This book was a delight to read. I typically read historical fiction. I was told I "must read this book". I'm so glad I did; fantasy, whimsy, mystery, and intrigue filled this well-told story.

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This book does what fiction is suppose to~~~ transport you to fun whimsical make believe! You will be hard pressed to find a better book this year! Reed Lommen

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Steampunk-magical! The love story between Celia and Marco is built on magical wisps that intertwine in Le Cirque des Rêves, the Circus of Dreams. The magical and emotional bond shown in this novel written by Erin Morgenstern is so captivating that my best friend's wedding is centered on the Night Circus theme. Although this story is very much fantasy, the vivid details from the different tents to the exquisite cuisines of the "midnight dinners" and the scrumptious circus fare make it all so real. The power of will and the mind is very much present in this novel. I like to think of it as a great reminder to readers to keep on entertaining their minds of the impossible...because the impossible can very much become possible and real. This novel also reflects on real life where things happen unexpectedly but always seem to go full circle since of course..."The circus arrives without warning..."

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I loved the characters, imagery and plot. It has become my favorite novel. My previous, "The Power of One", has been replaced after 11 years. I have bought copies for 3 friends and my daughter. I can't wait for another work from this outstanding author.

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This isn't a book I'd typically pick up, but I'm glad I did. Morgenstern created a complete other world filled with magic, mystery, and... the circus.

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I just finished devouring this delicious book. It was a sumptuous feast that I could not help eating too quickly. I am looking forward to a slower, more exquisite exploration of its complexities on the second read. Highly recommended.

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I read alot, and I must say this book thoroughly appealed to and sated my twisted need to read about other people's angst and art.

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Fun, fantastical, great storyline, likable characters, a really enjoyable read.

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Imaginative and subtle. A great and unexpected read.

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Well written and great character development. My book gang loved it! You will too!

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This book is mesmerizing and very visual in your mind if you have an imagination. The colors and personalities are stimulating and just a touch like the movie "Prestige" with Hugh Jackman and Christian Bale. I keep thinking about it and wondering how a new author can keep the pace and develop the unusual story. It is one of those books that stays with you along with Carl Luiz Zaffron's Angel Game series.

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Though it's hard to pick a single title, this came first to mind as my favorite book of 2012. Inventive plot, great writing, clever premise, and occasional twists. I look forward to more great fiction from this writer in the future.

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This book was a magical journey that you don't want to end but impossible to put down. Definitely a must read.

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A book full of magic and wonderful characters, with a bit of the dangerous unknown thrown in to keep you reading. One of the best books I've ever read in over 50 years of reading! I plan on rereading it again this year to savour all the delicious imagery.

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Delicious, Take-me-away reading....exactly what I go to novels for: breadth and depth...and to disappear into story!

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Full of beautiful images and metaphors The Night Circus takes you to another place. It feels like you are visiting the circus yourself and walking between the tents. Unique and filled with mystery this book is absolutely fantastic. A gorgeous read. Definitely one of my favorite books for 2012.

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This book verbally paints an incredible art piece of imagery. I loved it from the first sentence to the very last period. The story is wonderfully creative and puts the reader through varied emotional experiences. I loved and hated the cast of characters. For me, this book was a joy to read!

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Fresh and original, with memorable characters and vivid descriptions, this imaginative romantic fantasy utterly enchanted me!

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A smart fairy tale of magic, love and intrigue. The book is masterfully written, with flowing prose and short chapters to keep the pace brisk and addictive. While I would have handled the ending a bit different, that by no means makes it a bad ending or poorly done, just different. A fantastic read.

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A magical book that invites you in to a secret world of a circus that only appears at night -- good characters, a love story, and men consumed by their own power. A great read -- once I got into it I couldn't put it down, and was very sad when I finished it.

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Magical, romantic, with daunting visual imagery. A gorgeous, detailed, somewhat demanding (All the good ones are.) undertaking. A joy to read.

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Very good read that had me hooked in from the first pages. Definitely recommend!

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My favorite book last year. Amazing page-turner, couldn't put it down! So well written for a debut novelist and can't wait to read more of her work!

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Beautifully detailed with exceptionally creative plot. My favorite read of 2012.

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Left me in a dream world for days.

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Wonderful book by a terrific young author.

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Absolutely exquisite story. Engaging and I couldn't put it down!

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Great book!!!

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Absolutely one of my favorite books of all time. The descriptions are so vivid and the story is wonderful. It draws one in and makes me want to visit.

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This is a fascinating puzzle of a tale, heavy on magic and sleight-of-hand. It quickly became easy to care about the characters. I could scarcely put it down.

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From the first sentence the book grabs you with it's magic and mystic.

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Couldn't put this book down! Felt magically drawn & compelled to keep reading. Without a doubt, my favorite book of 2012.

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This book has everything.

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Sucks you right in, twists your brain, tickles your Lobe of Wonder, propels you on a Billy's path of a plot and sets you down gently, with a bang. A wonderful, wonderful read.

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The Night Circus is a very unique and special book somehow weaving itself into my heart and never letting go. I definitely enjoyed the journey that The Night Circus has brought me along but was disappointed when I arrived at my destination. But you know, sometimes it really is about the journey and not about the destination after all.

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For those who like the surreal (as opposed to Fantasy), this book is a gem. Talk about suspension of disbelief. The world of the Night Circus is sinister, beautiful, beyond imagination yet completely believable -- mainly thanks to characters whose emotions are familiar. A mystery and a love story that I couldn't put down and look forward to re-visiting in the very near future.

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I loved The Night Circus. It is written so fluidly by a new author. Beautiful detailed descriptions of wonders at the circus and at the hands of the 2 main characters make this book one to reread for sheer pleasure.A great underlying sense of suspense and chapters out of chronological order keep the reader wanting more! A friend with a twinkle in her eye told me that this book magically appeared on her desk at work and I was hooked.

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I read a positive review by Norah Jones for The Night Circus in People magazine. She loved it! So I thought I had to check into it. The cover of the book and the description sold me right off the bat. I knew I was in for a real treat. Once I started reading this book I could not put it down. I read it in just a few hours and found myself hoping there will be another book by Erin Morgenstern soon! Erin writes with such descriptive talent. Every page I read made the circus feel as if I were experiencing in that moment, that I knew the characters in the flesh! The Night Circus is romanctic, mysterious and fascinating! You will not be disappointed!

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It's been a long time since I've been so taken in by a book. Erin Morgenstern weaves together an incredible, magical, fantastic and evocative tale with such fluid use of prose. Words and scenes played in my head even when I wasn't reading. This is one of those stories that stays with you long after you've finished.

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This was more than a story it was an experience. I felt like I was at the circus and could see the magic being performed. It is not very often that a book brings you that deeply into the world and I loved every page of it.

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What would a circus geared for adults look like if you could use magic in its design? The creative vision of this book was so engaging, as the author reveals the contents of the various tents as the circus grows you really feel what it would be like to visit it. She describes the circus so vividly in fact, that my feeling when turning the last page is that I wanted to pick up and go for a trip. The plot is fun (if a bit slow in places), and the characters are interesting (particularly if you're into VERY dysfunctional families). But in the end, the circus is itself perhaps the best character. A GREAT summer read, you will fly through it and enjoy every moment.

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Two magicians pitted together for the duel of their lives fall in love only to discover that to win the duel, one must die. Once it has stated, there is no turning back. The Night Circus was one of the best books I've read in a long time. Morgenstern's style is like none I've seen. I don't usually enjoy "romances", but she kept me riveted to the end. I love the way she tied it all together in a flowing way. The Magic of Night Circus was so worth the time.

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This book is like candy! It's just fun. Great for a little escapism.

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The Night Circus is a wonderful, imaginative book. I became lost in the sights, sounds, and smells of the circus. I finished the book in three days and wished I had taken more time to enjoy this unique story and vision of such a talented writer.

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Who says the story has to be linear and logical? What abot magical and mystical?

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My favorite book this year - a wonderful story of love and magic. Highly recommended!

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Ice gardens twinkle in the sunshine, people ride through a maze of clouds, and dreams are capped in bottles: this is the Night Circus, a traveling act that offers the experience of a lifetime at every turn and in every tent. However, while the circus itself is shrouded in mystery--its name comes from curious fact that it only opens after the sun sets, and it has a habit of appearing and disappearing throughout the world without notice--there is a layer of intrigue that carries even deeper. The Night Circus is a fantasy, but it is also a battleground. Two young magicians have been raised their entire lives to compete in a game, the rules of which are unknown to even them, and it is here that they find the truth--and the victor. This is Erin Morgenstern's first novel, and it is a truly beautiful one. The book is not so much a story as a series of moving pictures. She flits between the magicians, the amazed audiences, the creation of the Night Circus, and the Night Circus itself, creating a gorgeous image in a page or two before ghosting on to the next act. As she slowly unravels the story behind the Night Circus, the book itself becomes a circus: not the garish, overdone events we think of today, but a gorgeous tribute to the innate talent of performers who have tricks and skills that can wow even the most cynical of crowds.

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Read this while on vacation and couldn't put it down. The characters are wonderfully drawn--flaws and all. The kind of book you wish were true and that the Night Circus would come to your town.

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I'm not much of a fantasy reader, but, wow, did I love this book. I was hooked from the opening it Morgenstern totally brought me into the world of the night circus and the beautiful magic that made it possible. I was entranced, and really sad that it was over in the end. Just like the devotees of the circus, I would be right there with my red scarf if I could have some more.

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I don't know why I let this book sit beside my bed and gather dust for so long before picking it up. A mis-guided 'ho-hum, another magic story' attitude, I suppose. But, let me tell you, once I finally started reading, I was blown away: this is so much more than any ordinary magic tale. More than a romance, better than an adventure tale, this story will keep you engaged, guessing and amazed all the way through.