Readers' Comments for THE MAGICIAN'S LIE
In October, a select group of readers who participated in one of our Sneak Peek Contests won copies of THE MAGICIAN'S LIE by Greer Macallister, which comes out January 13th. Take a look at some of the readers' comments to give you more insight into this book... but watch out for spoilers!
Melanie W. of Huntington, NY
I loved every sentence --- so much description, so many deep and enjoyable characters, and such a fine and well-developed story! The stage shows are described in such lush detail that the actors and the acts are as real as the book you are holding. The lives of the characters are also extravagantly written. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves a book you can lose yourself in, and I would rate it as highly as I rated THE NIGHT CIRCUS and SHADOW OF NIGHT. Excellent!
Rating: 5
Would you recommend?: Yes --- already have!
Claudia H. of Winfield, KS
I loved the book. It kept me on the edge of my seat from page one. THE MAGICIAN’S LIE doesn’t let you put it down until you’ve read the next chapter, and then the next, and next until you’ve reached the end.
Rating: 5+/5
Would you recommend?: I would definitely recommend this book to a friend. I have already mentioned it to several since I began reading it.
Jessica B. of Fairfield, CT
Before I answer the six questions, I wanted to tell you I was recently in a book funk. I had lots of false starts lately, but no books stuck until this one. It arrived on Monday and I have been reading it every free second I've had, at home and at work. I'm so sad to be finished.… Such evocative writing and a story that gripped me almost immediately. The magical side of the book reminded me of Alma Katsu's writing. The well-crafted story grips one immediately with a well-developed, fascinating ring of characters you really care about. Perfect escape reading!
Rating: 5/5
Would you recommend?: I've told four of my book-devouring friends that they NEED to read this book! I will continue to spread the word.
Mary M. of Elizabethtown, PA
I thought THE MAGICIAN’S LIE was a wonderful novel full of suspense and also a beautiful love story. It was so well crafted, I couldn’t put it down. The novel starts with the arrest of an early 20th century magician for the murder of her husband. It has flashbacks from the present to exciting events from her past. One must read this book to the end to see its full conclusion. I'm definitely looking forward to a sequel novel by this amazing author!
Rating: 5/5
Would you recommend?: I would definitely recommend this book to a friend and it would make a great book club read as well.
Marie C. of Chevy Chase, MD
I really enjoyed THE MAGICIAN’S LIE. I think it is going to be a bestseller, especially among the book group types. I read the book quickly, it was a little hard to get started but once into it, it turned into a page turner. Ray was disturbing but I kept reading to find out what would happen. I also kept imagining this book as a movie. the main characters would be fascinating on screen and the illusions would look fantastic in a movie.
Rating: 5/5
Would you recommend?: YES, I would definitely recommend this book and will do so.
Karen F. of Milton, WI
I loved THE MAGICIAN’S LIE; I couldn't put it down. I do wish that the ending could have been a little different and that Arden's tears collected on the policeman's handkerchief and placed back into his pocket would have healed his back. This book kept me entertained throughout with the suspense and colorful descriptions of the stage and illusions. Loved it and the presentation in the packaging. Would make a great gift for a fellow reader.
Rating: 5/5
Would you recommend?: I already have recommended this book to friends and fellow readers. I'm passing on my copy for others to enjoy.
Blanche T. of Glen Head, NY
THE MAGICIAN’S LIE held me spellbound and fascinated. It revolves around Officer Virgil Holt questioning Ada Bates (Amazing Arden, the Illusionist) about her husband's murder. The dialogue between the two is filled with intrigue and suspense. Doubt remains until the novel's conclusion.
Rating: 5/5
Would you recommend?: Definitely.
Kathy D. of Millis, MA
I loved THE MAGICIAN’S LIE! Found it to be a great read! This story is both mesmerizing and suspenseful. Full of magic, illusions, secrets, and more, all wrapped up in a love story. This historical fiction story of the Amazing Arden and her life as a female magician on the road in the early 20th century is captivating. I am sure you will very much enjoy reading this book!
Rating: 5/5
Would you recommend?: I have already recommended this book to friends on social media as well as to everyone in my book group.
Izella C. of Williamsburg, OH
I enjoyed the book a lot and could hardly put it down. It was a little too brutal but it certainly kept me guessing. I was glad to finally know the secrets of sawing someone in half and other magic tricks. I also liked the fact that part of it took place at the Biltmore as I have been there several times and could picture the rooms. A great read for those who like a supernatural cliffhanger!
Rating: 5/5
Would you recommend?: I will definitely recommend the book.
Wendi M. of Randall, MN
I loved the book. It is an exciting, mesmerizing story with lots of twists and turns about a woman illusionist living in the 1800s. A book you will be hooked on from the very beginning!
Rating: 5/5
Would you recommend?: I have already recommended it to five others and two of them have read it.
Pam M. of Waukesha, WI
I enjoyed the book and found the story intriguing. The writing style was great (detailed description plus interesting insight into the characters' thoughts). I would have given it a different title as this one seemed a little 'blah' and too similar to other books (THE HUSBAND’S SECRET, THE AVIATOR’S WIFE). Good historical fiction story that holds the reader's interest and brings the reader into the time period. It also has good character development so the reader cares about their fates. The plot was evenly paced and gave just enough info/clues to keep the reader guessing throughout the book.
Rating: 5/5
Would you recommend?: Yes, I will recommend to other readers.
Carol C. of San Clemente, CA
I loved this book! It was a fascinating glimpse into an unusual life and time. This is a story about love, self worth, and the human spirit all wrapped up in a compelling story with a very strong female character. You won't be able to put it down!
Rating: 5/5
Would you recommend?: Yes, I would recommend this book to a friend --- I already have!
Sue D. of Pittsburgh, PA
I loved the book --- from the first page I was drawn into Arden’s world and didn't want to put the book down until I finished it. Captivating and entrancing. What is magic? What is real? And is she telling the truth?
Rating: 5/5
Would you recommend?: I have already recommended it to several friends and will continue to do so to others.
Lelia P. of Long Island City, NY
I must admit to being like many of The Amazing Arden’s audience members at first: skeptical. However, Greer Macallister delivers a story that is as mystifying and magical as declared. The tale twists the reader in the words of a master magician, and how much of her story will you believe? I found this book enormously inspiring as I read the story of a woman that was strong, smart, and self-reliant during a time-period that historically did not “appreciate” or recognize the value of the female gender. I urge you in a “come one, come all” manner to choose this novel as your next read and “enjoy the show!”
Rating: 5/5
Would you recommend?: I will be recommending this book to my fellow reading enthusiasts.
Donna P. of Macomb, MI
A must read. One of the best books I have read in 2014. I am bored with a lot of current authors as they have become boring and predictable or are mass-producing books with other authors. THE MAGICIAN’S LIE was a breath of fresh air, a welcome “may read again” --- that's rare these days --- addition to my collection. I have been an avid reader since childhood and just love a good book escape on a cold (and we get them in the Midwest) snowy day. I had read WATER FOR ELEPHANTS and THE NIGHT CIRCUS and liked this book much better. Kept me interested and couldn't wait to see what happened even though I was swamped with holiday duties. Keep up the good work Greer Macallister (and Bookreporter.com too!).
Rating: 5/5
Would you recommend?: Yes!
Jenny M. of Lino Lakes, MN
I loved THE MAGICIAN’S LIE! I have an almost-three-year-old and work full time so reading is a complete luxury. Still, I didn’t want to put this one down. This is a book for all lovers of mystery, romance and coming-of-age. It is an incredibly well-written story with twists at every turn.
Rating: 5/5
Would you recommend?: Yes. (I already have!)
Susan B. of Pawcatuck, CT
I loved THE MAGICIAN’S LIE. The tension was palpable throughout the book. I was continually trying to predict the end. THE MAGICIAN’S LIE will keep you on the edge of your seat. There is a mystical quality to the Amazing Arden as she relates her life story, even as you come to understand the tricks behind her magic. Her husband has been murdered. She's the prime suspect. Did she do it?
Rating: 5/5
Would you recommend?: Yes.
Gail C. of Hanover, PA
I thought THE MAGICIAN’S LIE was one of the best books I've read this year and it will appeal to readers of many genres. It was well-written, the characters were fully-developed, and the story was imaginative and compelling. I also enjoyed the historical references throughout the story. I look forward to more books from Greer Macallister. Throughout the whole book you will be trying to figure out if her story is true and if she committed the murder. A compelling, magical story that keeps you in suspense!
Rating: 5/5
Would you recommend?: I have already recommended this book to a friend.
Darlene T. of Pewaukee, WI
THE MAGICIAN’S LIE grabbed me from the very start. It was fast moving and so engrossing. I could not put it down and now don’t want to give away any of the details --- you must read about Ava and her life experiences for yourself! A must-read!
Rating: 5/5
Would you recommend?: Certainly.
Michele G. of Eagle Mountain, UT
I absolutely loved THE MAGICIAN’S LIE. It was atmospheric and so memorable. One of my favorite reads of the year. I devoured it every time I sat to read and found myself thinking about it when I wasn't reading it. The descriptions were so vivid and I can still picture the places in my mind. The characters were well-written. Such brilliant writing. I loved every moment.
Rating: 5/5
Would you recommend?: Absolutely, and already have.
Sylvia B. of Boynton Beach, FL
I enjoyed THE MAGICIAN’S LIE. It is a great mystery and character study that will hold your attention throughout.
Rating: 5/5
Would you recommend?: Yes!
Kathy C. of Hays, NC
I loved the book --- it kept me guessing until the end. I kept waiting for my breaks and lunch hours at work so I could continue the story.
Rating: 5/5
Would you recommend?: I will definitely recommend the book.
Jeffrey T. of White Plains, NY
I enjoyed it thoroughly. A very compelling blend of murder mystery, historical fiction and psychology. This book combines a fascinating look at life, particularly for women, around the turn of the twentieth century but it is wrapped around a mystery. The two lead characters are locked in a psychological duel which alternates with the historical chapters. Once you start, you will want to know more and more about both the magician and the policeman. A tour de force.
Rating: 5/5
Would you recommend?: I already have recommended for a reading group.
Anne M. of Mint Hill, NC
I thought THE MAGICIAN’S LIE was original, provocative and very interesting. I found this a magical book, but is it the magician's magic or something else? Read it and decide for yourself.
Rating: 5/5
Would you recommend?: Certainly.
Judy C. of Peachtree City, GA
I loved THE MAGICIAN’S LIE and found myself reading it non-stop. The character development and the tension between the Amazing Arden and the young policeman Virgil Holt, as Arden tells her story, kept me wondering whether Arden would truly reveal who she was and what had occurred that night. As the mystery unwinds I was kept guessing until almost the very end.
Rating: 5/5
Would you recommend?: I would highly recommend this book to a friend, and already have.
Fred K. of Hemlock, MI
I enjoyed THE MAGICIAN’S LIE very much. I liked the way the story would go back and forth between the present (1905) and the telling of the life of the young magician. You couldn't help but wonder along with the officer Virgil Holt what is the truth and what is a lie (the title added to the wonder). As Annie Philbrick said, it's "a little taste of THE NIGHT CIRCUS, and a little salt of WATER FOR ELEPHANTS...," but I would also throw in a dash of The Prestige and a hint of The Illusionist and, when all is said and done, it’s a very enjoyable read.
Rating: 4.5/5
Would you recommend?: I would recommend the book to a friend and it's already in the hands of one friend with another waiting.
Jennifer E. of Lebanon, OH
I loved it! I haven’t read a book I couldn’t put down in quite a while, so I was thrilled when we had a snow day yesterday and I could read all morning until I finished the book! I described this book as turn-of-the-century historical fiction with a flavor similar to WATER FOR ELEPHANTS. It has settings that I could picture from my travels including the library in New York City, Biltmore, and the theatre in Chicago, and references to real people of the era like Adelaide Hermann and George Vanderbilt. I loved the writing style with the back and forth between Ada’s story and the police station and continually wondering if she was telling the truth or not.
Rating: 4.5/5
Would you recommend?: I have already recommended the book to several friends and will also recommend this to my book club for one of our 2015 titles.
Regina M. of Corona, CA
I was drawn in from the very first sentence to the last as I'm sure you will be too. Macallister captivates the reader from beginning to end.
Rating: 4.5/5
Would you recommend?: Yes.
Dianne H. of China Spring, TX
The book was an interesting read. There were actually two story lines intertwined. How much was truth, and how much was "smoke and mirrors"? I can see the story on the screen for sure. The end may surprise you, and will certainly keep you entertained.
Rating: 4.5/5
Would you recommend?: Most definitely.
Liz Z. of Madison, WI
Really enjoyed it --- this book is the perfect combination of magic and murder mystery. It is on the darker side (think of the movie The Prestige), but stays in the suspense zone without going overboard.
Rating: 4.5/5
Would you recommend?: I already have!
Erika L. of Township of Washington, NJ
THE MAGICIAN’S LIE is one of those books that is hard to put down once you start. The life of Arden is what drew me in. I had to keep reminding myself that she might not be a very reliable narrator, because her life story was so interesting and I wanted her to be telling the truth. I am glad that the story ended the way it did. I would not have liked a big reveal at the end, contradicting her whole story.
I enjoyed the love story between Arden and Clyde. Even though they knew so many intimate details about each other there were still parts of themselves that were hidden. This rings so true to me. How well can you really know a person's inner most thoughts? I thought that the author's mix of illusions and real magic was interesting and it brought another layer to Arden.
[SPOILERS] When reading the Q & A with the author, I was a little surprised that she talked about the fact that Ray was the dead "husband" as the reveal at the end. This did not really surprise me. It was pretty clear throughout the whole story that Ray would come back to haunt her somehow.
Rating: 4/5
Would you recommend?: Definitely.
Mary G. of Sun City Center, FL
I generally liked the book, but would have liked a less conventional ending. I would describe it as unique and different. The story was told through the communication of two characters, after the fact of the main event. Their reflections seem to make the story more than just the solving of the crime.
Rating: 4/5
Would you recommend?: Maybe.
Alyce P. of Stanhope, NJ
I enjoyed THE MAGICIAN’S LIE and it reminded me, as others have said, a lot of THE NIGHT CIRCUS. This one is slightly lighter than THE NIGHT CIRCUS so I liked it better. THE MAGICIAN’S LIE has very good character and plot/story development. I would have liked a bit more about the Virgil character. It is well researched. The ending is predicable about halfway through the book but it is very readable and you do get very invested in the two or three main character's lives for this short period. It is well-written and holds your interest with its twists and turns and its well-researched magic and period historical references. Well worth the night or two of reading, especially if you like the world of magic and illusions.
Rating: 4/5
Would you recommend?: I would recommend it to any friend who like mysteries and books requiring some thinking.
Darlene B. of New Castle, PA
I have to say that this book kept me guessing until the very end!! Every time I thought I had made up my mind about Arden and whether or not she had killed Ray, she would tell Virgil something which would give me pause. I really enjoy books --- especially historical fiction --- in which the story is told by an unreliable narrator. Arden was a strong character...she survived neglect by her self-absorbed mother and abuse by a psychopath (Ray) and I felt a great deal of sympathy for her; but there were times that her decisions were maddening to me.
Rating: 4/5, only because I felt the story may have been more effective if the Ray character was a bit more understandable. [SPOILERS] I know that an explanation was proposed --- perhaps his childhood illness had left him mentally unbalanced --- but that just didn't feel satisfying to me. He would appear and disappear at regular intervals but I never felt as if Arden was feeling afraid or menaced by him in the times he was not part of the story.
Would you recommend?: I would recommend this book to all of my friends who love strong women characters and all who love to read a good mystery.
Leslie R. of Florence, KY
I thoroughly enjoyed the book --- it was a great read.
Rating: 4/5
Would you recommend?: Yes.
Linda S. of Nevis, MN
I really enjoyed this book, particularly that the protagonist was a woman. It’s an intriguing tale told in flashbacks and through the device of the female magician being interrogated for the murder of her husband. The real magic was unwrapping what was reality and was a series of illusions. This was a well-crafted mystery that kept me guessing until the end.
Rating: 4/5
Would you recommend?: I already have to several of my friends, my book group and to the owner of our local independent bookstore.
Terri R. of Brentwood, TN
I enjoyed reading it a lot mainly because of the great character of Ada. Her life was very interesting and different from any other plot I've read. Her perseverance was amazing and overall I thought she was well developed. Even though I figured she would escape somehow I wasn't sure how the author would manage it. I didn't feel much for Virgil but did like how he finally realized what he was going to do with his life. He learned a lot from Ada. Overall, the story is fresh, suspenseful and a great mix of mystery and drama.
Rating: 4/5
Would you recommend?: Yes.
Martha B. of Minneapolis, MN
To borrow from children’s literature, this melodrama is a series of unfortunate (and fortunate events). This story keeps the reader engaged and wondering what happens next to this bright, petite, attractive woman, who becomes an adroit magician, earning applause and good income in a role usually reserved for men. The Biltmore mansion in North Carolina plays a major role in the life of this magician as a teen when she runs away from home. Having visited this site two years ago, I could follow the descriptions of rooms and grounds very well. Then, there is the fire in a famous, old Chicago theatre. Historical events are woven cleverly into this novel. Beginning this book, I was a little cynical about whether I would like it. It turns out that I did enjoy the predicament of the storyteller and her policeman captor and how a strong feminine character could create success in a time when women were treated on a very unequal scale from men. The author adds some unique characters who make a difference along the way for the magician. The true magic ability was a nice touch. Is it a lie? I’m not telling.
Rating: 4/5. It is entertaining.
Would you recommend?: I would recommend this book to some friends.
Janice H. of Springfield, MO
I was pulled into this book quickly, by the sense of mystery, by the feeling of the supernatural lurking around the edges of the story. While that feeling did not persist with the same intensity throughout the book, I still felt fully engaged in finding what had happened to Arden, and the other characters who came in and out of her life. I also really enjoyed the two totally different perspective of Arden and police officer Holt, with Arden continuing to insist on telling her story in her own way, and the officer pulling her back to the present, and the issue of the murder. I found this to be a very well-written creative debut.
Rating: 4/5
Would you recommend?: I already have! And will recommend to others.
Margery A. of College Station, TX
This was a good yarn, a quick read. Told over a twelve-hour period, the author uses many flashback sequences to reveal the story of the main character, The Amazing Arden. The book encompasses both a suspenseful story-line and many interesting supporting historical facts.
Rating: 4/5
Would you recommend?: Yes.
Jacqueline S. of Ann Arbor, MI
THE MAGICIAN’S LIE is engaging and suspenseful and fully inhabits its time and place. The central characters are well-sketched with a supporting cast of real historical figures. The narratives, moving between the past and present serve to move the plot along.
Rating: 4/5
Would you recommend?: Yes.
Andrew B. of Wethersfield, CT
THE MAGICIAN’S LIE proved to be a quick, but compelling read. The author clearly knows how to build suspense and sustain interest in this novel. Ultimately and rewardingly, the book is actually a love story about the relationship between the magician and a young con man who both attracts her and potentially betrays her. Macallister’s language is not complex and her bare-bones descriptions encourage a reader to fill in a lot of the blanks him- or herself, so that one is aware that a lot of the atmosphere, scenery and local color are coming from within one’s own imagination.
What makes the book somewhat difficult for a reader is our own concern that the tale that Arden is weaving may indeed be a lie and that she is not only leading us down a false path, but wasting our time on a story that will ultimately mean nothing when the final revelations are made. Unless, as we hope, we learn how this story really impacts the truth of the situation. Yes, I will say that Macallister does indeed provide that connection in the most surprising way that fulfills our anticipation.
Real-life events and characters are sprinkled into the plot which ground the novel in a specific reality, although there is a touch of magic realism or perhaps the supernatural regarding a particular talent that Arden possesses.
Rating: 4/5
Would you recommend?: I would readily recommend this book to someone looking to get engrossed in a fictional narrative.
Paula B. of Gansevoort, NY
I thoroughly enjoyed the book. It was a true page turner and an easy read. I liked the format the author created, having the reader go back and forth, past to present.
Rating: 4/5
Would you recommend?: I have already recommended this book to my sister (gave the copy to her) and I will recommend it to my book group.
Mona G. of Clearwater Beach, FL
Macallister's writing style is very readable and the language is lyrical. Her descriptions are graphic and original. The character development is good in that I could get a sense of them. I enjoyed the dialogue as well. Although she makes use of both time and point-of-view shifts when narrating Arden's story, the plot is easy to follow.
Overall, I enjoyed this novel. The plot moves fast, the language is lyrical, the descriptions are vivid, and the characters are well-developed. I was drawn in from the first line. I even read the reading group guide questions and conversation with the author at the end and it gave me some insight. Before reading this, I had not read a lot of historical fiction but now I will explore this genre further. It has also motivated me to add novels such as WATER FOR ELEPHANTS and THE NIGHT CIRCUS to my to-be-read list. This novel is reminiscent of that genre.
Rating: 4/5
Would you recommend?: I would recommend this to a friend depending on his/her tastes.
Diane W. of Minster, OH
This book reminded me quite a bit of WATER FOR ELEPHANTS. What I liked most about this book is that it is a historical fiction and that it contains a divided narrative, going back and forth from 1892 to the novel’s present time of 1905.
Rating: 4/5, only because it got a little long in the middle.
Would you recommend?: I would recommend this book to all of my book clubs, friends and family.
Mervyn R. of Miami, FL
This was an enjoyable read with a new twist. I haven’t read a book whose timeframe is one night but the author made it work in the story. Female illusionists were not popular in this time period of the book, which makes the book even more interesting and captivating. If you are looking for an easy read then this is your book.
Rating: 4/5
Would you recommend?: Yes, I already have.
Rashella W. of Little Elm, TX
I really enjoyed it! It is exactly like the back of the book reads, a little bit of WATER FOR ELEPHANTS, mixed with THE NIGHT CIRCUS. Although it drags a little in the middle, it is a wonderful story!
Rating: 4/5
Would you recommend?: Yes, I already have recommended it to members of my book club.
Sue F. of Glendale, CA
Really enjoyed this book --- so well-written and filled with engaging characters. The Amazing Arden wraps her story around you like a soft blanket that you just want to stay in. Hard to put the book down --- really clever plot!
Rating: 4/5
Would you recommend?: I have already recommended it to my book club as a "must" read.
Irene M. of Toms River, NJ
I think I liked this book, but I'm not really sure. It was rather unlike the books I generally read --- historical, thrillers, suspense, adventure, mysteries, etc. --- this book had a bit of all. I'm usually pretty good at predicting the final outcome, but I'll admit that I was kept guessing until the end. This book will make you think --- I was still pondering what the “magician's lie” really was at the end.
Rating: 4/5
Would you recommend?: I would recommend this book to certain friends, but definitely not to others.
Dale L. of Westminster, MA
I really enjoyed THE MAGICIAN’S LIE. It was a real page-turner and how the book was written was very intriguing, imaginative and suspenseful! I had just recently seen a live show called Masters of Illusions and it was great to relate to this book. I would tell my friend that this book will grab you in from the very beginning and keep you wondering to the end. Like I said before, it was an enjoyable read and I look forward to future reads from this author.
Rating: 4/5
Would you recommend?: I would recommend this book to a friend, even my book club.
Aletheia A. of Albuquerque, NM
I thought this was a very entertaining, thought-provoking, at-times surprising, and intriguing read. Overall, I thought the pacing was good (a little draggy in the middle, but overall, good). I thought Macallister created a great literary character in Ray. Arden and Holt were interesting and somewhat dynamic, though at times a little static in their lack of development. I did not like Clyde, but I did not think I needed to, to really enjoy the story. I think the format worked well for the story --- Arden's long night of story-telling in an effort to prove her innocence. And I thought the end was satisfying. The book takes turns being thought-provoking, romantic, scary, adrenalin-rushing, frustrating, and wistful, centering on illusions and hinting at magic.
Rating: 4/5
Would you recommend?: Yes and I already have.
Betty C. of Berwyn, IL
I enjoyed the book more than I anticipated. I saw it compared to THE NIGHT CIRCUS several times and I agree that the feeling and tone of the book were comparable. This is a story with two unreliable narrators --- the Amazing Arden, a female illusionist accused of murdering her husband in a particularly gruesome way --- and Virgil, a sheriff whose sense of honor and physical limitations are at war with his unacknowledged attraction to Arden. It's not a thriller or a murder mystery in the strictest sense, but it is an intriguing story with its share of smoke and mirrors.
Rating: 4/5
Would you recommend?: I will recommend it to my library patrons/friends.
Jackie B. of Nashville, TN
Overall, I enjoyed the book. However, I felt some of the scenes between Arden and Clyde dragged a little and were a tad repetitive. Otherwise, THE MAGICIAN’S LIE a well-paced novel, filled with magic, murder, love and intrigue. If you like historical novels with interesting characters, mysteries and plot twists, this is a book for you.
Rating: 4/5
Would you recommend?: Yes.
Judy O. of Naples, FL
I liked it, even without the expected focus on magic. The 1905 gas lit lamps and eerie feel made me think of London. It's NOT about magic. It has a strong-willed female magician, way ahead of the times, who provides a twisting, entertaining yarn.
Rating: 4/5
Would you recommend?: Already recommended to one friend!
Laurie B. of Farmington Hills, MI
You will cheer the main character, a strong leading lady, Arden, an incredible female illusionist, as she tries to escape a monster psychopath! This creative novel is rich in vivid descriptions, mystery and dialogue, a tale told over the course of one night. I can highly recommend this high-spirited book, perfect for the spooky Halloween season! I think that THE MAGICIAN’S LIE is an imaginative, historical fiction/fantasy, set in the turn of the 20th century, filled with magic, love and tragedy!
Rating: 4/5
Would you recommend?: I have already recommended this book to a friend.
Gail P. of Matthews, NC
I enjoyed THE MAGICIAN’S LIE. I thought the plot was engaging and the historical details added to the appeal. Set around the turn of the 20th century and reminiscent of WATER FOR ELEPHANTS, this story follows a female magician, "the Amazing Arden," who travels the country by rail with her cast of fellow performers and while trying to outdistance a sinister presence from her past. The main character's story is revealed in narrative which alternates between her past and scenes from a police interrogation where the magician is accused of murder. The interaction between Arden and the policeman is weaker than the back story but is told in short segments which do not detract too much from the overall effect of the book.
Rating: 4/5
Would you recommend?: Yes, I already have recommended this book.
Kimberly H. of Cypress, TX
I enjoyed most of my time reading THE MAGICIAN’S LIE. I thought this was a nicely written suspenseful novel that kept the reader interested through the shifting time frames of the book. It is a clever look at the traveling shows from the late 1800s-early 1900s.
Rating: 4/5
Would you recommend?: Yes.
Nioke W. of Washington, D.C.
I really enjoyed this book! Gorgeous period details, a captivating fast-paced story and powerhouse characters like Adelaide made this one of my favorite reads of the year! I'm under Greer Macallister's spell.
Rating: 4/5
Would you recommend?: Yes.
Michelle D. of Seattle, WA
Lovely book. I enjoyed the strong female protagonist. Some of the novel was a bit predictable, but that didn't detract too much from the overall story.
Rating: 4/5
Would you recommend?: Yes, I probably would.
Vivian T. of Charleston, WV
After reading the first few chapters I wasn't quite sure about the story, but the more I read the more I was sucked in and wanted to know how it all ends. Truly an entrancing read. Ada’s tale of woe is just as entrancing as her unwillingness to answer any direct questions about her husband's murder. What is this magician's lie: the story of her unbelievable past, her celebrated present, neither or both? I look forward to more from this author and, hopefully, the opportunity to read this book again in the future.
Rating: 4/5
Would you recommend this book to a friend?: YES! I'll be suggesting this book to all of my local books groups (5 total), with the hopes that one of them will decide read it.
Tricia B. of Davie, FL
Overall, I liked THE MAGICIAN’S LIE. The writing was what especially captivated me. I sometimes felt pulled out of the story when the writing was in the present only because I felt so involved with Arden's past. Arden is a fascinating woman, determined, talented and passionate like no other character. This is definitely a character-driven read and very well done. I liked the ending, everything fell into place. This is a departure from my normal genre and it's quite a refreshing read.
Rating: 4/5
Would you recommend?: Yes.
Sherrie P. of Columbia, SC
I loved THE MAGICIAN’S LIE! The packaging was very effective and made me want to read it all the more. The setting of the interrogation made the story even more interesting making the reader try to find the truth along with the young policeman. It was a very entertaining read!
Rating: 4/5
Would you recommend?: I would recommend this book to a friend and already have.
Heather P. of Villa Park, IL
I am not usually into historical fiction but this book grabbed me and kept me riveted throughout. I was especially interested in the tales of magic and how they were performed. It was wonderful to picture a woman controlling her own destiny. I felt the character of Virgil paled in comparison. Maybe, since it was the early turn of the century but he did not feel very fleshed out. Too wimpy, I guess. As this is definitely a women’s fiction tale that was told, the male characters didn’t feel true or fully realized. Someone as charismatic and polished as Arden would not fall for the charms or really be frightened by the character, Ray. She certainly wouldn’t have stayed with him like she did. But don’t get me wrong, it was still an interesting and lovely story that captured Ada/Arden’s trip through life beautifully. I think it would make an interesting for a book club as so many topics --- such as the strength of women --- could be explored.
Rating: 3.5/5
Would you recommend?: I would recommend this book to a friend or my book club member that appreciates women’s literature.
Lesley B. of Lexington, KY
This book was not what I was expecting and maybe that is the reason for my less than thrilled reaction. The story at times was vivid in description and pulled the reader along and then would abruptly veer into the mundane and drag by for a few pages before the story would once again pick back up. The inconsistency made it hard to wade through to the good parts that one hoped were waiting on the next page. How illusions were constructed, the theaters and train as well as the performers themselves were well done. How the main character came to be in the position she found herself was mundane and broke the spell of the story. Be prepared to be entertained but not for solid answers at the story's end.
Rating: 3.5/5
Would you recommend?: Maybe. I would recommend with caution about what it appears to be and what it actually is.
Cindy R. of Louisville, KY
When I first began the book, I did not think that I would like it. I even stopped reading and began another book. After finishing that book, I came back to THE MAGICIAN’S LIE and started again. I skimmed through the book and decided that I would give it another try. It turned out better than I first thought. I ended up liking it. There was something about the style of writing that prevented me from loving it when the author moved the story to the conversations between Arden and Holt. I would lose interest in these sections. For those who have an interest in magic tricks, this is a good story. It is also a good for those who have an interest in the entertainment industry during the late 1800's.
Rating: 3.5/5
Would you recommend?: Yes.
Kisha of St. Petersburg, FL
I liked it mostly, though I felt some of the story in the present was dull. The flashbacks and development of the magic act were the most engaging.
Rating: 3.5/5
Would you recommend?: Yes, though I would tell you not to go in comparing it to the other books it’s been likened to.
Anne of Austin, TX
I liked the way the truth seemed to always be lost in the smoke and mirrors. The allure of a magic show is hard to deny and from the Amazing Arden's show we get a behind-the-scenes glance at several illusions. But there are mysteries of many different sorts and as we read we learn that things are not always as they seem. Who really killed the man in the Halved Man box that night? Read to find out!
Rating: 3.5/5
Would you recommend?: Probably yes.
Sharon E. of Jeffersonville, IN
Not only did Ada/Arden concoct illusions, her story seemed quite often to be an illusion as well. It was interesting to read about how some of the "magic" was done and especially interesting to get some of the story of Adelaide Herrmann and the life of those who traveled the entertainment circuit. While the story of the abuse was uncomfortable to read, I felt that it most likely portrayed correctly some of the life situations of many young girls of the late 1800s and early 1900s. This is a lovely love story, a story of generosity and also a story of pervasive evil and perhaps, also the story of redemption.
Rating: 3.5/5
Would you recommend?: I will certainly tell the other members of my book club about this book.
Deb A. of Libertyville, IL
A historical mystery with an interesting twist --- that the magician is a female. This was an easy enjoyable read.
Rating: 3/5
Would you recommend?: Maybe.
Francesca O. of Shelby Township, MI
I enjoyed THE MAGICIAN’S LIE. It is easy to follow and well-written with good characterizations.
Rating: 3/5 (The only reason I didn't give it a 4 is that it was too much of a romance-type book which is not something I generally read.)
Would you recommend?: I would recommend the book to friends that read romance-type novels.
Patti H. of Lakeville, MI
I didn't like this as much as I thought I would. I think there was too much "hype" about it being similar to WATER FOR ELEPHANTS and THE NIGHT CIRCUS. When it didn't live up to that hype, it soured for me, a bit. No offense, but THE MAGICIAN’S LIE wasn't even close to the quality of those two books. You could actually SMELL the circus in those two books! I do have to mention the packaging. It was AMAZING. My daughters (both of whom are avid readers) saw the book sitting on the couch Thanksgiving Day and couldn't resist picking it up. Even with my "tamped down" recommendation, my one daughter can hardly wait to read it.
Rating: 3/5
Would you recommend?: I would recommend this book (I'm still thinking about it 3 days later…), but with the caveat to not expect a WATER FOR ELEPHANTS or THE NIGHT CIRCUS-level of book.
Mil K. of Middleburg Heights, OH
THE MAGICIAN’S LIE was…not bad: I'd give it a C+. Ray and Clyde were too "pat" as characters; situations/plot involving their reappearance was too contrived.
Rating: 3/5
Would you recommend?: I would give it to a friend.
Dana F. of Mount Pleasant, SC
I didn't really enjoy this book. Had a hard time getting into it, and just didn't feel very invested in the characters. Also didn't think the writing was terribly strong.
Rating: 3/5
Would you recommend?: Probably not.
Kathryn F. of Denver, CO
It started out a bit too tragic for my tastes, and particularly for a book about magic. While I wanted Arden to have her happy ending, I think I would have been happier for more surprise at the end. When Arden became the leading lady, her story really shifted to focusing on Clyde and Ray, and I think it would have added more richness if she had had more relations with her crew or maybe her family.
Rating: 3/5
Would you recommend?: No.
Stephanie P. of Matthews, NC
I enjoyed the book but found it too focused on the techniques and art of being an illusionist. It was well-paced and full of wonderful historical details regarding the early costumes and illusionist techniques. I also enjoyed the mystery aspect of the novel. Did The Amazing Arden, kill her poor husband?
Rating: 3/5
Would you recommend?: I have recommended the novel to a few book club members.
Lauren B. of Norwood, MA
This book reminded me of THE HAWLEY BOOK OF THE DEAD by Chrysler Szarlan, which I read fairly recently. It had a similar story line which I enjoyed. It is not your typical novel that has been published these days. It's part murder-mystery, part magical story, part fantasy (in a way) with plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing. Very enjoyable overall!
Rating: 3/5
Would you recommend?: Yes.
Lola L. of Boca Raton, FL
Not as sophisticated a novel as I am used to reading.
Rating: 2/5
Would you recommend?: Maybe.
Mary T. of Ambler, PA
I was disappointed in THE MAGICIAN’S LIE. It didn't hold my interest but I kept reading it because I wanted to provide this information. I also kept hoping the book would improve. My curiosity was piqued and I wanted to see how the story played out. Possibly my expectations were too high since the reviews compared the book to WATER FOR ELEPHANTS which I loved and couldn't put down. The book was expertly written but I never felt engaged with the characters as I have with the best page-turners.
Rating: 2/5
Would you recommend?: No, I wouldn't recommend the book to a friend but I probably will give my copy to my friend to find if she is as disappointed in the story as I was.
Margaret G. of Sloatsburg, NY
I did not love this book. My expectation was high, having read reviewers who likened it to WATER FOR ELEPHANTS and THE NIGHT CIRCUS (two books that I did love). I did want to find out how this book ended, but wasn't all that invested in the characters. I liked the time period (turn of the century) and it was different in that the magician was a woman in what is traditionally thought of as a male role. All in all, I would not say this is a "must read." For me it lacked emotional attachment to the characters.
Rating: 2/5
Would you recommend?: No.
Jean K. of Davenport, IA
I wish I could say I liked the book however it just never made it for me. I felt the story line was good but it was a boring book to read. It just wasn't able to keep my interest. I finally skipped the last hundred pages just to see if it was ever going to end and to be through with it. I think the idea was good however it was never very interesting. Just not very exciting. I have read THE NIGHT CIRCUS and WATER FOR ELEPHANTS and really liked them. I told my daughter to read THE NIGHT CIRCUS and she felt the same way I did. It held your interest from the first word. The same for WATER FOR ELEPHANTS. Not so with THE MAGICIAN’S LIE.
Rating: 1/ 5
Would you recommend?: I'm afraid I won't recommend this book and I feel bad about that.
