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Cirque Masters #1
Cirque de Minuit
It’s no easy feat transitioning from the disciplined arena of competitive gymnastics to the artistic whirl of the Cirque du Monde. Kelsey Martin finds secret inspiration in Theo Zamora, a dark, taciturn trapezist–until his partner dies in a tragic accident and he decides to leave the circus for good.
Theo doesn’t understand why Kelsey reaches out to him, only that she compels him with her unique combination of innocence and recklessness. Before long the two are collaborating on an aerial silks act for a new production, the Cirque de Minuit. Theo’s impatience with Kelsey’s naivete is matched only by his passion for her, and the two soon become embroiled in a tempestuous, consuming romance.
But some still blame Theo for his partner’s accident, and danger wraps up the two performers as inevitably as the scarlet silk of their act. Theo and Kelsey must find a way to connect and trust one another as he leads her deeper and deeper into a dangerous world of control and desire.
Theo doesn’t understand why Kelsey reaches out to him, only that she compels him with her unique combination of innocence and recklessness. Before long the two are collaborating on an aerial silks act for a new production, the Cirque de Minuit. Theo’s impatience with Kelsey’s naivete is matched only by his passion for her, and the two soon become embroiled in a tempestuous, consuming romance.
But some still blame Theo for his partner’s accident, and danger wraps up the two performers as inevitably as the scarlet silk of their act. Theo and Kelsey must find a way to connect and trust one another as he leads her deeper and deeper into a dangerous world of control and desire.
208 pages, Paperback
First published March 1, 2012
31 people are currently reading
1506 people want to read
About the author
Annabel Joseph
70 books2,217 followersAnnabel Joseph is a NYT and USA Today bestselling BDSM erotic romance author. She writes mainly contemporary romance, although she has been known to dabble in the medieval and Regency eras. She is recognized for writing emotionally intense BDSM storylines, and strives to create characters that seem real--even flawed--so readers are better able to relate to them.
Annabel also writes non-BDSM erotic romance under the name Molly Joseph. You can sign up to receive Annabel's newsletter here: http://wordpress.us7.list-manage.com/...
Some of Annabel's favorite authors are Laura Kinsale, Judith McNaught, Jo Beverley, Flannery O'Connor, Molly Weatherfield, and Anneke Jacob.
Annabel Joseph loves to hear from her readers at annabeljosephnovels(@)gmail.com.
Annabel also writes non-BDSM erotic romance under the name Molly Joseph. You can sign up to receive Annabel's newsletter here: http://wordpress.us7.list-manage.com/...
Some of Annabel's favorite authors are Laura Kinsale, Judith McNaught, Jo Beverley, Flannery O'Connor, Molly Weatherfield, and Anneke Jacob.
Annabel Joseph loves to hear from her readers at annabeljosephnovels(@)gmail.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
September 24, 2016
4* odd ladybug & gypsy king STARS!!
I have a date with Annabel Joseph. Just started this series and I was totally hooked! Not my top favorite, though. I never watch human circus in my whole life, only animal circus like in cartoon. I have no idea what are they doing, so I've done some research. Bottom line, I enjoyed it very much!
Kelsey Martin joined Cirque du Monde just for months. She adored Theo Zamora, another circus performer since the first time she saw him. With sudden accident happened to her beloved crush, Kelsey needs to act. She basically bitch-slap him Theo to wake up and move on. So he did. Kelsey insisted to be his partner and Theo just couldn't help her attraction.
I liked Kelsey! She's strong-headed, smart and hard-working girl. She's adaptable with the circus. Her only weakness is Theo Zamora. Her crush. Her gypsy king. He amazed her in every way and wanted to be with him so badly. Kelsey made her first move with nothing to lose. Her determination paid when Theo agreed to be her aerial partner.
Theo Zamora isn't your typical hero. He has bad boy persona and dangerous. He's really talented and came from circus family. Losing someone's was very hard for him but Kelsey just barged in his life. I didn't like Theo at first, because his whatever attitude isn't for me. But when he shown his pervert + romantic way with Kelsey.. Oh man... *fanned myself* Theo turns into possessive man who wants Kelsey's submission and start their D/s relationship.
Although Theo admit he isn't really understand the BDSM itself but it felt so real. As you know, Ms. Joseph kind of BDSM isn't for everyone and I'm agree. It isn't your usual BDSM. No safe word but still SSC. Theo isn't a sadist but he enjoys a bit play torture with Kelsey. I liked how Kelsey doesn't lose her identity when submit to Theo. Even both of them changed into something better with deep chemistry. They already have trust so it's easy to develop more intense relationship.
I enjoyed the thrill with the plot. The mystery within the circus also the boss-man. Steady paced with high intensity in their relationship. What I didn't like is.... It was my only issue. Overall, I liked it so much and amazing read. It makes me wanna watch circus. The ending was unexpectedly beautiful.
I have a date with Annabel Joseph. Just started this series and I was totally hooked! Not my top favorite, though. I never watch human circus in my whole life, only animal circus like in cartoon. I have no idea what are they doing, so I've done some research. Bottom line, I enjoyed it very much!
Kelsey Martin joined Cirque du Monde just for months. She adored Theo Zamora, another circus performer since the first time she saw him. With sudden accident happened to her beloved crush, Kelsey needs to act. She basically bitch-slap him Theo to wake up and move on. So he did. Kelsey insisted to be his partner and Theo just couldn't help her attraction.
I liked Kelsey! She's strong-headed, smart and hard-working girl. She's adaptable with the circus. Her only weakness is Theo Zamora. Her crush. Her gypsy king. He amazed her in every way and wanted to be with him so badly. Kelsey made her first move with nothing to lose. Her determination paid when Theo agreed to be her aerial partner.
As the butterfly, Kelsey had to be both graceful and alluring. Her beauty was supposed to provoke the man so much he wanted to possess her. But when he finally had success, when he finally grabbed her and slid down the silks to tuck her away with his other belongings, her delicate wings were damaged. In capturing her, he harmed her so she could no longer fly.
Theo Zamora isn't your typical hero. He has bad boy persona and dangerous. He's really talented and came from circus family. Losing someone's was very hard for him but Kelsey just barged in his life. I didn't like Theo at first, because his whatever attitude isn't for me. But when he shown his pervert + romantic way with Kelsey.. Oh man... *fanned myself* Theo turns into possessive man who wants Kelsey's submission and start their D/s relationship.
“But even then...sometimes it feels scary to me. Like I’m not in control, even though you say I am.”
Theo shot her a wicked grin. “That means I’m doing it right. You feel me, yes? In your mind and your body.” His hand slid between her legs to rest against her center. “You feel me here every time I’m near, even if I don’t touch you.”
“You’ve turned me into a bad girl, Theo,” she whispered.
Although Theo admit he isn't really understand the BDSM itself but it felt so real. As you know, Ms. Joseph kind of BDSM isn't for everyone and I'm agree. It isn't your usual BDSM. No safe word but still SSC. Theo isn't a sadist but he enjoys a bit play torture with Kelsey. I liked how Kelsey doesn't lose her identity when submit to Theo. Even both of them changed into something better with deep chemistry. They already have trust so it's easy to develop more intense relationship.
I enjoyed the thrill with the plot. The mystery within the circus also the boss-man. Steady paced with high intensity in their relationship. What I didn't like is.... It was my only issue. Overall, I liked it so much and amazing read. It makes me wanna watch circus. The ending was unexpectedly beautiful.
Theo was so pleased with her, so proud of her. In love with her, whatever love was.
No, he knew what love was. Love was wanting someone so much that they changed you. She’d been changing him, little by little, from the start.
January 20, 2018
🌟🌟🌟🌟1/2 STARS.
J'adore Cirque de Minuit, (Cirque Masters, #1) by Annabel Joseph, like really really love 💞this.
From the moment I started reading this incredibly unique story, It grabbed me by the throat and refused to let go until It had consumed me in its entirety.
I don't think I've ever read a set of BDSM stories set in the circus and this pulled me in with its sheer individuality.
So Cirque de Minuit is set in the world of Cirque du Monde and Kelsey Martin a former Olympic reserve gymnast is one of its newest employees.
From day one she is overly fascinated by Theo Zamora a foul-mouthed French dominant trapezist.
and when Theo loses his trapeze partner Mina in tragic circumstance Kelsey steps forward determined to pull him out of his despair with an offer to work with him and his bad hands.
Apparently, circus folks are superstitious so Theo's career is now on the out.
Theo in true mean derogatory style stamps all over Kelsey's offer.
But later has a change of heart offering to partner and train her in Ariel Silks for a finale act in the new midnight show being put together.
So I loved this twisted tale of submission and domination set against the splendid backdrop of the circus.
both of the main characters were extremely easy to like and identify with.
Theo himself was a sexy bundle of man flesh and every time he uttered the words come and called his Kelzee Girl I melted into a gooey puddle.
I could just imagine his sexy gorgeous broken accent as he laid out his wants and wishes.
In fact, I think I might be giving him a bit too much leeway on account of my total infatuation.
He was a bit of a mean naughty boy at times.
Kelsey herself grew so much through this tale, she started out as quite naive and sheltered and came across to me as such a wholesome blonde American cheerleader type.
As this book expanded so did Kelsey growing so much in her character.
It seemed the more she identified her wants and needs the more she grew as an individual.
This from me would have been a total five-star rating, but there were some minor niggles that pulled this down slightly for me, so I removed half a star for this exact reason.
Whilst I adored the pull and push of this developing D/S relationship and I didn't even mind the club antics as it was a scene mutually agreed upon and I was fine with that.
What I objected to was Kelsey having to visit Michel's office I thought that was just a step too far and Theo as Kelsey's Dom should have put a stop to it.
That is my only reason for removing half a star.
Over than that I cant recommend this book enough, I have KU and as a result, I don't buy many individual books, this one I made an exception for.
One Hell of a read.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com.
June 18, 2012
I thought this one was funnier than most of Annabel's book which I know sounds kind of odd because of the seriousness of the first chapter. But Kelsey is so much the perky California girl and Theo is trying to so hard to be the aloof distant Frenchman that it had me laughing more than once.
But then we get to visit the backroom of le Citadel and it wasn't so funny anymore.
Kelsey was incredibly strong. She wasn't a masochist but she was so very much a submissive. Once she realized it, she became utterly devoted to making it happen. And she met all the challenges presented to her. Even though I kind of knew what was going to happen, I have to admit I got surprised a couple of times.
The way Kelsey and Theo mixed her learning about submission with her learning to perform on the aerial silks was really inspired. Note: I have to admit I haven't been to the circus in a while so I had kind of forgotten what aerial silks were. Fortunately, YouTube was there for me. There are some great videos if you need the reminder, too.
Not for the faint of heart, but if you are reading this, you probably aren't.
But then we get to visit the backroom of le Citadel and it wasn't so funny anymore.
Kelsey was incredibly strong. She wasn't a masochist but she was so very much a submissive. Once she realized it, she became utterly devoted to making it happen. And she met all the challenges presented to her. Even though I kind of knew what was going to happen, I have to admit I got surprised a couple of times.
The way Kelsey and Theo mixed her learning about submission with her learning to perform on the aerial silks was really inspired. Note: I have to admit I haven't been to the circus in a while so I had kind of forgotten what aerial silks were. Fortunately, YouTube was there for me. There are some great videos if you need the reminder, too.
Not for the faint of heart, but if you are reading this, you probably aren't.
May 3, 2012
I thought I’d read quite a few Annabel Joseph books but when I look back, I’ve only read Club Mephisto which I very much enjoyed to so I was looking forward to this one. The circus and BDSM sounds like such a mouth-watering combination – all those incredibly fit athletes performing together in perfect harmony in more ways than one.
Kelsey is an ex aspiring American Olympic gymnast who has never quite achieved her aim and has now joined the Cirque du Monde in Paris. She’s mesmerised by Theo, a gypsy king, and his partner Minya, trapeze artists, who she accidentally witnesses induging in some spanking and D/s activity backstage one day. Theo invites her to join them but she runs away, deeply embarrassed. Kelsey cannot keep her eyes off Theo until one day tragedy strikes, their routine goes wrong and Minya plummets to her death right out of Theo’s hands.
Theo holes himself up in booze and grief but Kelsey persistently pursues him and they become lovers and, despite his now tarnished reputation for ‘bad hands’, they decide to move to Cirque du Minuit (The Midnight Circus) in Marseille to perform an aerial silks act. Pictures below as I wasn’t too sure I even knew what that was and had to google it.
How hot is this one……….
Theo tells Kelsey (or Kelzee as he says it in his sinfully sexy French accent) that submission runs deep in her but she must learn to truly submit and she embarks on D/s 101. He ruthlessly teaches her everything he knows and then some and they embark on the Marseille BDSM club scene with the owner of the circus (Le Maitre) and it sure is no Shadowlands but it’s all good.
At first, I wasn’t convinced that I liked either of them. Kelsey is bolshy, outspoken, pushy – not all attributes I’d associate with a sub and Theo had a careless disdain, treated Kelsey with emotional detachment and a Gallic shrug of this shoulders. But they really do grow on you. Their aerial silk act is supposed to be Theo watching Kelsey, a beautiful butterfly, desperate to possess her, to make her his but in doing so he crushes her wings and now he possesses her but he has utterly destroyed her. Will real life mimic their art? In the end it is Kelsey’s incredible strength of character and determination and un-sub like behaviour that rescues their relationship when all seems lost and the last chapter and the epilogue really did reduce me to a puddle.
It’s all good – not very heavy on the BDSM. One club scene, a ménage scene , a little m/m action with Le Maitre and his pets but it’s mostly very romantic BDSM between Theo and Kelsey.
4 stars BDSM erotic romance
After the book there is a teaser chapter for Molly's Lips: Club Mephisto Retold. Can't wait for that one!
Kelsey is an ex aspiring American Olympic gymnast who has never quite achieved her aim and has now joined the Cirque du Monde in Paris. She’s mesmerised by Theo, a gypsy king, and his partner Minya, trapeze artists, who she accidentally witnesses induging in some spanking and D/s activity backstage one day. Theo invites her to join them but she runs away, deeply embarrassed. Kelsey cannot keep her eyes off Theo until one day tragedy strikes, their routine goes wrong and Minya plummets to her death right out of Theo’s hands.
Theo holes himself up in booze and grief but Kelsey persistently pursues him and they become lovers and, despite his now tarnished reputation for ‘bad hands’, they decide to move to Cirque du Minuit (The Midnight Circus) in Marseille to perform an aerial silks act. Pictures below as I wasn’t too sure I even knew what that was and had to google it.
How hot is this one……….
Theo tells Kelsey (or Kelzee as he says it in his sinfully sexy French accent) that submission runs deep in her but she must learn to truly submit and she embarks on D/s 101. He ruthlessly teaches her everything he knows and then some and they embark on the Marseille BDSM club scene with the owner of the circus (Le Maitre) and it sure is no Shadowlands but it’s all good.
At first, I wasn’t convinced that I liked either of them. Kelsey is bolshy, outspoken, pushy – not all attributes I’d associate with a sub and Theo had a careless disdain, treated Kelsey with emotional detachment and a Gallic shrug of this shoulders. But they really do grow on you. Their aerial silk act is supposed to be Theo watching Kelsey, a beautiful butterfly, desperate to possess her, to make her his but in doing so he crushes her wings and now he possesses her but he has utterly destroyed her. Will real life mimic their art? In the end it is Kelsey’s incredible strength of character and determination and un-sub like behaviour that rescues their relationship when all seems lost and the last chapter and the epilogue really did reduce me to a puddle.
It’s all good – not very heavy on the BDSM. One club scene, a ménage scene , a little m/m action with Le Maitre and his pets but it’s mostly very romantic BDSM between Theo and Kelsey.
4 stars BDSM erotic romance
After the book there is a teaser chapter for Molly's Lips: Club Mephisto Retold. Can't wait for that one!
Want to read
November 21, 2014Losing my Annabel Joseph virginity with Theo ...
July 3, 2015
1st read 8 September 2014
I love Annabel Joseph!!!
Her books are so unusual, first with ballet companies and now circus people :) Her heroes are over the top dominant and her heroines strong and passionate.
Theo is dark, ruthless and confident, with small instances of acute asshole behaviour :D I loved every minute of this book.
2nd read 2-3 July 2015
I love Annabel Joseph!!!
Her books are so unusual, first with ballet companies and now circus people :) Her heroes are over the top dominant and her heroines strong and passionate.
Theo is dark, ruthless and confident, with small instances of acute asshole behaviour :D I loved every minute of this book.
2nd read 2-3 July 2015
November 8, 2016
Title: Circque De Minuit
Author: Annabel Joseph
Category: Romance
POV: Dual
Characters: 4.5
Plot: 5
Scorching Level: 5
HEA: Hmm...maybe
I wanted to read an Annabel Joseph book since...FOREVER.
This has everything I love in a gritty read; dark hero, passion and a unique storyline.
We enter the Circus world. We are in France. Kelsey is a gymnast but she has always watched the aerial act of her new job with extreme interest.
Theo Zamora & Minya are the famous couple in the Cirque. They click and their performances are always amazing. When a tragic accident leaves Theo alone, Kelsey thinks she might finally be getting her chance to work with him.
But Theo, our gipsy king, is not a man easily convinced and Kelsey is not a woman that can likely grasp his attention...Right?
Kelsey's determination is a force to be reckoned with and she will fight for what she wants. When Kelsey's vivacious character clashes with Theo's dark domination, can the outcome be a brilliant or a devastating one?
I am in love with the author's writing. She writes her grey and gritty with great skill. I am very curious to see where she will take her characters...
Adding more to my review soon...
March 3, 2012
Only Annabel Joseph could make me read a book about the circus...and love it.
I hate the circus, so books about it never even make it into my TBR pile, much less rise to the top. After I read the blurb, I was even less thrilled about the plot of Cirque du Minuit. It was actually about the circus, not just some circus-themed window dressing for a bunch of hot BDSM scenes.
But this was Annabel Joseph. Annabel freaking Joseph. How could I not read it? Hadn’t she made me adore books about dance, of all things? I mean, most days I’d rather pound my own forehead with croquet mallet than read a book about dance, and yet Annabel had managed to draw me into her world and made me soar (and bleed) right along with her characters—and I mean during the dance scenes, too, not just the BDSM scenes.
So I bought the book yesterday and started reading, interrupting the longest, most productive writing binge I’ve had in over a year. Having read the excerpt, I had an idea of what was coming, and my stomach was knotted with anxiety throughout the entire first couple of chapters. But once again, I found myself sucked into her world and loving it. Annabel’s worlds and her characters are so inextricably bound that if you fall in love with one, you fall in love with both.
And I did fall in love with both Theo and Kelsey and the world they inhabited. Both characters were flawed and driven, and Kelsey was just so damn gutsy! Even when she edged into her little paranoid phase, she was totally lovable and relatable to me, even though I’ve never been any kind of athlete. I loved that she was an American girl on her own in France, unable to speak the language. I loved her youth and innocence, and her conflicted need for something dark and depraved. I loved that she wanted to talk to her mother, even when she was doing things that would have curled her mother’s hair. I loved that Theo enjoyed her innocence even as he relished making her dirty. And I absolutely loved Kelsey (and felt bad for her even as I laughed out loud) when Theo thought She was the world’s worst fellatrice, perhaps, but they could work on that.
What's more, I loved that she went after Theo, even when she didn’t consciously intend to, and kept after him even in the face of his cruelty. I was never afraid for Kelsey, even when she was at her most vulnerable—she was that strong a person, stronger than even Theo, in my estimation. Kelsey was my idea of the perfect BDSM heroine—an emotionally heroic sub.
As for Theo, I hardly know what to say, except that Annabel got him totally right. He’s that elusive blend of compelling and repelling that spells DOM to me. You scare the shit out of me and I can’t take my eyes off you. He was the kind of irresistible that defies logic and taste and predefined personal standards, the kind that can make you accept a whole hell of a lot more (or less) than you ever thought you would.
It probably goes without saying I loved the D/s elements. The first sexual encounter between Theo and Kelsey was so incredibly intense, I get breathless just remembering it—that collision of ruthless dominance and ballsy innocence, that eye-opening “Oh shit, what have I just opened myself up to?” moment for Kelsey, just blew me away.
And I even enjoyed my foray into the circus. I liked seeing the behind-the-scenes aspects, the training and dedication, and most importantly, the safety precautions, so much so that I might even reconsider my long-standing avoidance all things circus and go see a show, if I can find a really good one.
One final note: The writing was smooth and seamless, rich and compelling, and the technical aspects of the book were very nearly perfect. If only all books were produced so professionally and with such great attention to detail!
So if you enjoy a wonderful love story, pulse-pounding BDSM elements, and excellent writing, I’d definitely recommend Cirque du Minuit as a must-read.
I hate the circus, so books about it never even make it into my TBR pile, much less rise to the top. After I read the blurb, I was even less thrilled about the plot of Cirque du Minuit. It was actually about the circus, not just some circus-themed window dressing for a bunch of hot BDSM scenes.
But this was Annabel Joseph. Annabel freaking Joseph. How could I not read it? Hadn’t she made me adore books about dance, of all things? I mean, most days I’d rather pound my own forehead with croquet mallet than read a book about dance, and yet Annabel had managed to draw me into her world and made me soar (and bleed) right along with her characters—and I mean during the dance scenes, too, not just the BDSM scenes.
So I bought the book yesterday and started reading, interrupting the longest, most productive writing binge I’ve had in over a year. Having read the excerpt, I had an idea of what was coming, and my stomach was knotted with anxiety throughout the entire first couple of chapters. But once again, I found myself sucked into her world and loving it. Annabel’s worlds and her characters are so inextricably bound that if you fall in love with one, you fall in love with both.
And I did fall in love with both Theo and Kelsey and the world they inhabited. Both characters were flawed and driven, and Kelsey was just so damn gutsy! Even when she edged into her little paranoid phase, she was totally lovable and relatable to me, even though I’ve never been any kind of athlete. I loved that she was an American girl on her own in France, unable to speak the language. I loved her youth and innocence, and her conflicted need for something dark and depraved. I loved that she wanted to talk to her mother, even when she was doing things that would have curled her mother’s hair. I loved that Theo enjoyed her innocence even as he relished making her dirty. And I absolutely loved Kelsey (and felt bad for her even as I laughed out loud) when Theo thought She was the world’s worst fellatrice, perhaps, but they could work on that.
What's more, I loved that she went after Theo, even when she didn’t consciously intend to, and kept after him even in the face of his cruelty. I was never afraid for Kelsey, even when she was at her most vulnerable—she was that strong a person, stronger than even Theo, in my estimation. Kelsey was my idea of the perfect BDSM heroine—an emotionally heroic sub.
As for Theo, I hardly know what to say, except that Annabel got him totally right. He’s that elusive blend of compelling and repelling that spells DOM to me. You scare the shit out of me and I can’t take my eyes off you. He was the kind of irresistible that defies logic and taste and predefined personal standards, the kind that can make you accept a whole hell of a lot more (or less) than you ever thought you would.
It probably goes without saying I loved the D/s elements. The first sexual encounter between Theo and Kelsey was so incredibly intense, I get breathless just remembering it—that collision of ruthless dominance and ballsy innocence, that eye-opening “Oh shit, what have I just opened myself up to?” moment for Kelsey, just blew me away.
And I even enjoyed my foray into the circus. I liked seeing the behind-the-scenes aspects, the training and dedication, and most importantly, the safety precautions, so much so that I might even reconsider my long-standing avoidance all things circus and go see a show, if I can find a really good one.
One final note: The writing was smooth and seamless, rich and compelling, and the technical aspects of the book were very nearly perfect. If only all books were produced so professionally and with such great attention to detail!
So if you enjoy a wonderful love story, pulse-pounding BDSM elements, and excellent writing, I’d definitely recommend Cirque du Minuit as a must-read.
March 27, 2013
This story, set amidst circus life, was mesmerizing, intense, deeply erotic. The hero is a hard Dom, a jerk sometimes, there was no hero’s background, why he acts the way he does –key for me- and there were some bdsm scenes with the heroine and someone else that bothered me because I didn’t understand why the hero allowed it (although the heroine consented). What can I say, I really liked this story, even the sweet ending, at odds with the dark tone of the book. Maybe it was just a coincidence that the hero’s name is Theo and I pictured him while I read as another Teo in the picture below…
HERO is a Performer, unapologetic and irreverent, who comes from a family tradition in circus and is a renowned aerial acrobat. He’s also an intense Dom, very private, and his long time submissive, who was also his aerial act partner, just died, for which he blames himself. But a young American woman, a circus apprentice, and very attracted to him will just not let him withdraw or quit.
SCENES/CONTENT: several/bdsm
GENRE/TONE: contemporary/drama
LENGTH: 180 pages
HERO is a Performer, unapologetic and irreverent, who comes from a family tradition in circus and is a renowned aerial acrobat. He’s also an intense Dom, very private, and his long time submissive, who was also his aerial act partner, just died, for which he blames himself. But a young American woman, a circus apprentice, and very attracted to him will just not let him withdraw or quit.
SCENES/CONTENT: several/bdsm
GENRE/TONE: contemporary/drama
LENGTH: 180 pages
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November 9, 2012
5 HUGE Stars!
Full review coming soon, but let me say this ... THIS IS WHAT ROMANCE IS ALL ABOUT!
Full review coming soon, but let me say this ... THIS IS WHAT ROMANCE IS ALL ABOUT!
April 24, 2012
3.75 Stars
This one was pretty hard for me to rate. I liked it for the most part, but it wasn't one of those can't put it down ones. The story was paced decently, not too fast, but it was slow at times. It took a while for me to like Theo, our hero. He's so hard headed, stubborn and sent so many mixed signals that he gave me whiplash. If I was Kelsey, I would've given up on him a long time ago. Fortunately, she didn't and it was because of her, Theo's cold demeanor started to thaw. Towards the end of the book, the softer side of Theo emerged and I was thrilled.
I'm normally not opposed to erotica and BDSM since I think it adds flavor, but if took out all that out, I think it would've made an even more beautiful love story. The Back Room antics and the week long submission lesson was just a tinsy bit much for me. Don't get me wrong, I'm all for the steam, but it was just a little much. So aside from that, it wasn't bad at all and did like the how the characters changed for each other. And of course, above all, I did get my HEA :)
This one was pretty hard for me to rate. I liked it for the most part, but it wasn't one of those can't put it down ones. The story was paced decently, not too fast, but it was slow at times. It took a while for me to like Theo, our hero. He's so hard headed, stubborn and sent so many mixed signals that he gave me whiplash. If I was Kelsey, I would've given up on him a long time ago. Fortunately, she didn't and it was because of her, Theo's cold demeanor started to thaw. Towards the end of the book, the softer side of Theo emerged and I was thrilled.
I'm normally not opposed to erotica and BDSM since I think it adds flavor, but if took out all that out, I think it would've made an even more beautiful love story. The Back Room antics and the week long submission lesson was just a tinsy bit much for me. Don't get me wrong, I'm all for the steam, but it was just a little much. So aside from that, it wasn't bad at all and did like the how the characters changed for each other. And of course, above all, I did get my HEA :)
August 24, 2017
I found this author through the Shhh event, and I really enjoyed it.
At first, I can admit, that I didn't love it.
I was having a hard time like Kelsey at the beginning, I found her naive, obsessed, and a bit insensitive. She did grow on me by the ending.
She had a backbone. She was brave and didn't back down from she wanted.
Theo was ,well, the type of hero I like. He was brooding and mean.
Solid 4 stars. Very sexy and unique read.
At first, I can admit, that I didn't love it.
I was having a hard time like Kelsey at the beginning, I found her naive, obsessed, and a bit insensitive. She did grow on me by the ending.
She had a backbone. She was brave and didn't back down from she wanted.
Theo was ,well, the type of hero I like. He was brooding and mean.
Solid 4 stars. Very sexy and unique read.
August 3, 2012
I love the artistry of performers. I love to hate all my French friends--I'm so American and unabashed that we just end of chatting and spitting sly insults all the time. This book reminded me of restraining the urge to slap. Entertaining and this maybe Joseph's strongest female protagonist to-date.
July 3, 2015
Buddy read with Aly
Basically my reaction towards Annabel's books:
Basically my reaction towards Annabel's books:
August 4, 2012
This is a multifaceted story and another good read from Annabel Joseph. The setting of the Cirque du Minuit or Circus of Midnight reminds me of the Cirque du Soleil, which I've seen and adored, there I saw silk flyers so understood the concept of the act portrayed. Check you tube for examples of a beautiful fluid act where the artistes climb, swing, fly, drop and mesmerize their audience in stunning silk drapes. I loved her Ladybug theme.
The story has many characters that play significant roles within the story. Main ones, Kelsey, naive sexually..finds herself introduced to the role of sexual submissive, but is she...she can be dominant, stubborn and determined, she is a gymnast from the US unafraid to speak her mind and now to learn the trade and experiences of the Cirque, an amazing show where she finds herself performing in the French shows. Theo and partner Minya, trapeze artistes of note, this is where a tragedy occurs, but the mystery of accident or no accident, fall or pushed, threads itself throughout, with the truth in the culmination of Annabel's Story. Theo, the brooding Dominant, a French flyer, a travelling circus man from a circus family of generations, independent, intolerant and reluctantly drawn to Kelsey who is the antithesis of the type of character he is usually attracted to. Then of course the sexual recognition and needs of each of the main and other lead characters. The introduction of aspects of BDSM to Kelsey by Theo, his and her realization of their needs, wants and desires. The BDSM sexually orientated group within the Cirque as a whole which is hidden within the Cirque at a place called the Citadel, where the Master, who controls all, takes what he wants from either sex. The way if your noticed, you progress under Lemaitre's patronage but also the price you have to pay, or is it ultimately a pleasure.
The psychology Annabel Joseph draws on to make the situation and her characters rounded with real personalities is good too. Ms Joseph again portrays another of her stories through the creative arts as seen with Mercy, and I enjoyed the accuracy and flavor of the Cirque and it's nomadic style of it's performers. Well researched, well rounded, good story and a good 4 stars plus in my opinion that adults who enjoy BDSM erotica should enjoy.
The story has many characters that play significant roles within the story. Main ones, Kelsey, naive sexually..finds herself introduced to the role of sexual submissive, but is she...she can be dominant, stubborn and determined, she is a gymnast from the US unafraid to speak her mind and now to learn the trade and experiences of the Cirque, an amazing show where she finds herself performing in the French shows. Theo and partner Minya, trapeze artistes of note, this is where a tragedy occurs, but the mystery of accident or no accident, fall or pushed, threads itself throughout, with the truth in the culmination of Annabel's Story. Theo, the brooding Dominant, a French flyer, a travelling circus man from a circus family of generations, independent, intolerant and reluctantly drawn to Kelsey who is the antithesis of the type of character he is usually attracted to. Then of course the sexual recognition and needs of each of the main and other lead characters. The introduction of aspects of BDSM to Kelsey by Theo, his and her realization of their needs, wants and desires. The BDSM sexually orientated group within the Cirque as a whole which is hidden within the Cirque at a place called the Citadel, where the Master, who controls all, takes what he wants from either sex. The way if your noticed, you progress under Lemaitre's patronage but also the price you have to pay, or is it ultimately a pleasure.
The psychology Annabel Joseph draws on to make the situation and her characters rounded with real personalities is good too. Ms Joseph again portrays another of her stories through the creative arts as seen with Mercy, and I enjoyed the accuracy and flavor of the Cirque and it's nomadic style of it's performers. Well researched, well rounded, good story and a good 4 stars plus in my opinion that adults who enjoy BDSM erotica should enjoy.
October 23, 2012
One word book review: Magnifique!
My casting for Theo and Kelsey...
My casting for Theo and Kelsey...
April 13, 2014
This was such a fantastic story. I read it in a day, couldn't stop. Sorry kids, mommy spent the day reading.
At first I thought that maybe some one from another circus had killed Minya so Theo would have to leave his circus and join theirs. Well the mystery is solved and it wasn't what I thought. It was better.
Annabel Joseph sure knows how to writer her men! Theo is intense, beautiful, erotic, animalistic and....funny.
"Why aren't you hung over?" "Because I didn't drink half my weight in alcohol last night, and because I have a higher tolerance than you. A hummingbird has higher tolerance than you," he added as a final dig.
"Oh God, I'm hung over. And I'm in bed with a guy like you, and I have to take a birth control pill and-and-" She sobbed. holding her aching brain. "And I have to call my moooommm!"
"What do you mean, a guy like me?"
"Wayne. he's a total asshole."
"I've told you this forty-five times before. Now you finally realize?"
"Just shut up." "It's for the best. Just imagine, if you ended up together, you would have these children....so blond, so pale.....they would practically be invisible, You would have to put bells on them."
And then there is.......
Theo. amazing in his skin, in his violence and in his passion....crazy, so crazy you want him as much as Kelsey does.
Kelsey is such a mixed bag of confidence and submission. She is likeable, difficult and naïve but we love her and love her with Theo.
Annabel Josephs writing is brilliant to me for these reasons: she can write her male characters like men. Some female writers can't do that! Next, her women are strong, mentally and physically. And her men are sexy as hell for their dirty mouths and their sexuality! she easily paints the picture for your imagination and it's hot! Her sex scenes have always been the best because they are different in movement, description, timing, better than most erotica.
This is a unique story as most of Ms. Joseph are. Her setting is never the repetitive office or condo scenes. No clubbing or gyms. Her stories are dark with beautiful surroundings and unusual people with unique employment.
This was a really good love story!
If you haven't read any of Annabelle's stories I recommend starting at the top of the list and read your way down! I highly recommend the Comfort series!
At first I thought that maybe some one from another circus had killed Minya so Theo would have to leave his circus and join theirs. Well the mystery is solved and it wasn't what I thought. It was better.
Annabel Joseph sure knows how to writer her men! Theo is intense, beautiful, erotic, animalistic and....funny.
"Why aren't you hung over?" "Because I didn't drink half my weight in alcohol last night, and because I have a higher tolerance than you. A hummingbird has higher tolerance than you," he added as a final dig.
"Oh God, I'm hung over. And I'm in bed with a guy like you, and I have to take a birth control pill and-and-" She sobbed. holding her aching brain. "And I have to call my moooommm!"
"What do you mean, a guy like me?"
"Wayne. he's a total asshole."
"I've told you this forty-five times before. Now you finally realize?"
"Just shut up." "It's for the best. Just imagine, if you ended up together, you would have these children....so blond, so pale.....they would practically be invisible, You would have to put bells on them."
And then there is.......
Theo. amazing in his skin, in his violence and in his passion....crazy, so crazy you want him as much as Kelsey does.
Kelsey is such a mixed bag of confidence and submission. She is likeable, difficult and naïve but we love her and love her with Theo.
Annabel Josephs writing is brilliant to me for these reasons: she can write her male characters like men. Some female writers can't do that! Next, her women are strong, mentally and physically. And her men are sexy as hell for their dirty mouths and their sexuality! she easily paints the picture for your imagination and it's hot! Her sex scenes have always been the best because they are different in movement, description, timing, better than most erotica.
This is a unique story as most of Ms. Joseph are. Her setting is never the repetitive office or condo scenes. No clubbing or gyms. Her stories are dark with beautiful surroundings and unusual people with unique employment.
This was a really good love story!
If you haven't read any of Annabelle's stories I recommend starting at the top of the list and read your way down! I highly recommend the Comfort series!
June 11, 2012
I enjoyed this story a lot. The idea itself was beautiful, the circus element and the imagery kept me captivated. I liked Kelsey and Theo together and I was rooting for them...mostly.
I wasn't a big fan of Theo's behavior -- namely, the slap -- even though it did make sense later. My heart ached for him in the few times he allowed his vulnerability and care for Kelsey to show through.
And my biggest complaint is the added kink for kink sake. It's never explained what Theo is, it's just sort of implied that Kels is going to agree. There were no safeword discussions, or anything of that nature. There was talk of training, but no real depth into that. And lastly...
Why the frick was Le Maitre even part of this? It didn't need him. It's like the author went, "oh, I need someone crazy to fuck her in the ass a few times, then it'll fit the BDSM slot!" It was unnecessary and actually changed my rating and opinion of the entire book after thinking about it for a few days.
Overall I'm giving this 3 stars, because like I said, I did enjoy the story itself for the reasons I stated above. I just think I need to find something perhaps a little more vanilla for myself to read next time. ;)
I wasn't a big fan of Theo's behavior -- namely, the slap -- even though it did make sense later. My heart ached for him in the few times he allowed his vulnerability and care for Kelsey to show through.
And my biggest complaint is the added kink for kink sake. It's never explained what Theo is, it's just sort of implied that Kels is going to agree. There were no safeword discussions, or anything of that nature. There was talk of training, but no real depth into that. And lastly...
Why the frick was Le Maitre even part of this? It didn't need him. It's like the author went, "oh, I need someone crazy to fuck her in the ass a few times, then it'll fit the BDSM slot!" It was unnecessary and actually changed my rating and opinion of the entire book after thinking about it for a few days.
Overall I'm giving this 3 stars, because like I said, I did enjoy the story itself for the reasons I stated above. I just think I need to find something perhaps a little more vanilla for myself to read next time. ;)
January 25, 2015
This was an OK read but not great. I liked the circus environment and the silks act was pretty cool.
I didn't connect very well with Kelsey...she seemed a bit hollow to me.
Theo, on the other hand, was quite mysterious and had lots of depth; even though he was a major asswipe most of the time. I had problems resolving his inner feelings of love for Kelsey with his need to push her away or dominate her.
There were some scenes I didn't like and had lot's of trouble reading...like the way they used anal sex against her.
I didn't connect very well with Kelsey...she seemed a bit hollow to me.
Theo, on the other hand, was quite mysterious and had lots of depth; even though he was a major asswipe most of the time. I had problems resolving his inner feelings of love for Kelsey with his need to push her away or dominate her.
There were some scenes I didn't like and had lot's of trouble reading...like the way they used anal sex against her.
September 5, 2022
I loved Cirque du Minuit. It was different and orginal then anything else I have read. I loved the dark erotic underground Citadel club, I felt its added something spicy to the story. Kelsey and Theo were an absolute joy to read. They were both finding themselves in this book and also bringing things out in each other. I hope this turns into a series because I want to see more of Lemaitre and Jason. My one critism would be what happened between Lemaitre and Kelsey, I don't mind what happened, I just wish there would be a little explanation of why Theo was okay with what was happening. Overall I diffently am happy with my purchase. The author did an amazing job bringing me into the Cirque. I was able to visualize everything and really get into the story. Loved it.
June 16, 2012
Annabel Joseph really writes the best bdsm erotica. I loved the whole atmosphere in Cirque du Minuit. The descriptions of the performances were so beautiful that I could really imagine what their aerial silks act must have looked and felt like.
The story starts when Kelsey, a gymnast new to circus life, witnesses Theo and his partner in a dom/sub scene. She is very attracted to Theo and intrigued by the bdsm dynamics. Tragedy strikes and Theo is left without a partner. And just as he thinks his career is about to end, Kelsey worms her way into his life and he decides to do an aerial silks act with her in the Cirque Du Minuit. An intense love affair begins and Kelsey is introduced to a dangerous world of dominion and submission.
The story starts when Kelsey, a gymnast new to circus life, witnesses Theo and his partner in a dom/sub scene. She is very attracted to Theo and intrigued by the bdsm dynamics. Tragedy strikes and Theo is left without a partner. And just as he thinks his career is about to end, Kelsey worms her way into his life and he decides to do an aerial silks act with her in the Cirque Du Minuit. An intense love affair begins and Kelsey is introduced to a dangerous world of dominion and submission.
February 9, 2014
“You never let go. You wait for me to let go, always….”
Cirque de Minuit – Midnight Circus - by Annabel Joseph is the first book in the Cirque Masters Series and is the story of Theo Zamora and Kelsey Martin. It was a breathtaking love story that centers on the performers in the circus. I loved every page of this story and I must admit, I think Theo may truly be my favorite of all Ms. Joseph’s characters….yes Rubio, you have some major competition.
We are introduced to these two performers while they are with a cirque in Paris, but after a tragic accident occurs Theo and Kelsey find themselves thrust together as new partners in a cirque in Marseille. Although in his previous act, Theo was a trapezist in the new cirque he and Kelsey are aerial performers. The underlying theme of this performance is trust and with his bad boy reputation, Kelsey will have to learn to trust him in more ways than one.
“Are you trying to make me fall?” she shrieked.
Theo grinned. “Fall? No, girl. I’m trying to make you fly.”
As with all of Ms. Joseph’s books about performers, the Cirque and its aerial silks completely mesmerized me. She describes the performance so vividly… the twists and turns and acrobatics of the routine, I felt like I could see them wrapped in the red silk performing their act. I love how Ms. Joseph can bring me into a setting so clearly that I feel like I am sitting there watching them….flying above my head.
The BDSM aspect of this book was extremely intense at times and at other times it was beautiful to watch. There is no skimping on the Dominant/submissive roles and Kelsey is my favorite type of submissive – sassy and strong, but knows that she craves being a submissive. When Theo brings Kelsey to The Citadel, the underground BDSM club, her sexuality blossoms…. when she is presented to Michel Lemaitre, The Citadel and The Cirque’s owner, we realize that it is here she begins to truly learn the role of a submissive and this is a lesson that does not come easily or is painless to her. Although I felt Theo and Kelsey’s D/s role was much more romantic than that of Ms. Joseph’s other book characters, don’t think by any means Kelsey is treated easily because she is not.
By the end of the book, I was once again in awe of Ms. Joseph’s writing and storytelling. She draws upon most of my senses as I could literally smell the smoke, I could taste the whisky, I could feel the silks, and see the trust building. I loved Theo, he is vulnerable and proud and stubborn…he is a man worth loving and he finally found peace with his ladybug.
She saw it now, in his burning dark gypsy gaze...She would be his gypsy queen.
Cirque de Minuit – Midnight Circus - by Annabel Joseph is the first book in the Cirque Masters Series and is the story of Theo Zamora and Kelsey Martin. It was a breathtaking love story that centers on the performers in the circus. I loved every page of this story and I must admit, I think Theo may truly be my favorite of all Ms. Joseph’s characters….yes Rubio, you have some major competition.
We are introduced to these two performers while they are with a cirque in Paris, but after a tragic accident occurs Theo and Kelsey find themselves thrust together as new partners in a cirque in Marseille. Although in his previous act, Theo was a trapezist in the new cirque he and Kelsey are aerial performers. The underlying theme of this performance is trust and with his bad boy reputation, Kelsey will have to learn to trust him in more ways than one.
“Are you trying to make me fall?” she shrieked.
Theo grinned. “Fall? No, girl. I’m trying to make you fly.”
As with all of Ms. Joseph’s books about performers, the Cirque and its aerial silks completely mesmerized me. She describes the performance so vividly… the twists and turns and acrobatics of the routine, I felt like I could see them wrapped in the red silk performing their act. I love how Ms. Joseph can bring me into a setting so clearly that I feel like I am sitting there watching them….flying above my head.
The BDSM aspect of this book was extremely intense at times and at other times it was beautiful to watch. There is no skimping on the Dominant/submissive roles and Kelsey is my favorite type of submissive – sassy and strong, but knows that she craves being a submissive. When Theo brings Kelsey to The Citadel, the underground BDSM club, her sexuality blossoms…. when she is presented to Michel Lemaitre, The Citadel and The Cirque’s owner, we realize that it is here she begins to truly learn the role of a submissive and this is a lesson that does not come easily or is painless to her. Although I felt Theo and Kelsey’s D/s role was much more romantic than that of Ms. Joseph’s other book characters, don’t think by any means Kelsey is treated easily because she is not.
By the end of the book, I was once again in awe of Ms. Joseph’s writing and storytelling. She draws upon most of my senses as I could literally smell the smoke, I could taste the whisky, I could feel the silks, and see the trust building. I loved Theo, he is vulnerable and proud and stubborn…he is a man worth loving and he finally found peace with his ladybug.
She saw it now, in his burning dark gypsy gaze...She would be his gypsy queen.
December 8, 2025
2017 = 3 stars
2022 = DNF / review written
During my BDSM phase, I read several books by A.J., rated either 2 or 3 stars.
In 2017, I liked the parts about the MCs training and practicing for the aerial circus.
In 2022, little of it was of interest. I didn't care for the MCs, as neither are likable. They aren't people I’d want to know in real life..
Kelsey, young and new to the circus,
pursues Theo, a circus legend.
I prefer it when the H does the pursuing. Theo was horrible to Kelsey during the first half.
During the story: he chokes her, slaps her, and forces her to have anal sex. There's no discussing their BDSM relationship, no setting hard limits, and no safe word. Theo just does whatever the heck he wants, and Kelsey just takes it all.
The brief & brutal sex scenes weren't sexy. Theo often hurt Kelsey, like pinching her nipples until she wails, or spanking her with hard, stinging blows that feel like a volley of hot fire. In that scene she begs him to stop, having reached her breaking point. She has to give him a blowjob to stop the battery of smacks that are like a rain of fire.
DNF at the 65% mark. Theo is too much of a sadist. I don't find any enjoyment in Kelsey's pain, or the several anal sex scenes. It gets worse when Theo trains Kelsey to be a slave, and takes her to a club where he shares her with another Dom.
🚫 No thanks, this is no longer for me.
2022 = DNF / review written
During my BDSM phase, I read several books by A.J., rated either 2 or 3 stars.
In 2017, I liked the parts about the MCs training and practicing for the aerial circus.
In 2022, little of it was of interest. I didn't care for the MCs, as neither are likable. They aren't people I’d want to know in real life..
Kelsey, young and new to the circus,
pursues Theo, a circus legend.
I prefer it when the H does the pursuing. Theo was horrible to Kelsey during the first half.
During the story: he chokes her, slaps her, and forces her to have anal sex. There's no discussing their BDSM relationship, no setting hard limits, and no safe word. Theo just does whatever the heck he wants, and Kelsey just takes it all.
The brief & brutal sex scenes weren't sexy. Theo often hurt Kelsey, like pinching her nipples until she wails, or spanking her with hard, stinging blows that feel like a volley of hot fire. In that scene she begs him to stop, having reached her breaking point. She has to give him a blowjob to stop the battery of smacks that are like a rain of fire.
DNF at the 65% mark. Theo is too much of a sadist. I don't find any enjoyment in Kelsey's pain, or the several anal sex scenes. It gets worse when Theo trains Kelsey to be a slave, and takes her to a club where he shares her with another Dom.
🚫 No thanks, this is no longer for me.
September 19, 2012
"Go away from me and do what you do. Bulldoze on thru life, eating colored sugar and shitting rainbows out of your goddamn ass"
I liked this one. Especially the end. Theo is different in an obnoxious lovable way. It's a little bit like Shannon Miller (olympic gymnast) meets Baryshnikov or the Zsar of Russia. The juxataposition of her innocence and his roughness is dynamic throughout.
There is some public humiliation and dubious consent, that are a little uncomfortable, but the rest of the story is compelling and interesting.
The characters are very well developed for such a short story. The beginning has some awkward dialogue, but it gets better.
I've noticed with Annabel Joseph, her talent is to really accent the dominance and submission feeling without necessarily all the props.
This one and Firebird both have the art/dance backdrop that create an exotic mood, and don't heavily rely on clamps or cuffs. I don't think theo ever even used cuffs, his strength and voice were enough to make her feel compelled.
I liked this one. Especially the end. Theo is different in an obnoxious lovable way. It's a little bit like Shannon Miller (olympic gymnast) meets Baryshnikov or the Zsar of Russia. The juxataposition of her innocence and his roughness is dynamic throughout.
There is some public humiliation and dubious consent, that are a little uncomfortable, but the rest of the story is compelling and interesting.
The characters are very well developed for such a short story. The beginning has some awkward dialogue, but it gets better.
I've noticed with Annabel Joseph, her talent is to really accent the dominance and submission feeling without necessarily all the props.
This one and Firebird both have the art/dance backdrop that create an exotic mood, and don't heavily rely on clamps or cuffs. I don't think theo ever even used cuffs, his strength and voice were enough to make her feel compelled.
April 25, 2014
4.5 stars!! I've been on such an awesome reading streak here lately!! This is my first book by this author and I'm intrigued!!! I will be looking up her other books. So for me this book had it all.... It was a bit on the dark side, it had a hero who was a big jerk for a lot of the book and a sassy heroine. I love reading a story where the author has the ability to make you feel what a character is feeling (heroine in this case) or even make you feel like you are on the sideline observing everything as it happens. That is what I felt while reading and that is saying a lot as the story is about circus people!! It was so different and that is what drew me in in the first place... Not to mention the amazing sex scenes. There was one ménage scene and I was a bit put off at the hero's indifference of the heroine performing a sex scene at the club. But despite all the emotions I experienced during my read, the end was amazing and totally worth it!!!
March 30, 2012
CIRQUE DU MINUIT was a breathtaking story, and I was quickly pulled into its seductive world. The relationship between Kelsey and Theo was intense. Kelsey has spent a lifetime as the good girl type she is naive and innocent, yet also strong and very stubborn and she's not afraid to speak her mind!.Theo is dark dangerous, he has an the attitude of not giving a fuck and as they come together in the wake of tragedy with Theo.'s former lovers death kelsey cant help but to fell sorry for Theo. she herts for his pain and she go's over to his apartment to cheek up on Theo. she cant stop thinking of of him and nooks on his door but he wont answer she keeps on until he opens she becomes quit a pain in his ass but he cant help but be compiled bye her and so they form a complicated bond
August 16, 2014
It's a fascinating tale of circus and courage, grief and discovery. I loved the setting and the writing. The characters are a surprising blend of contradictions and teasing glimpses into normalcy. They work together well even though they seem to be the complete opposite. The setting coupled with the characters gives the book a deep tension which is a joy to read. So why only 4 stars? It is the sex. It's not bad sex, it is fairly common sex for the genre. I am told that his hand does something - I am not shown it, I am not made to experience it. The sex is unimaginative and short, livened up by throwing in BDSM elements rather than making the sex more present to the reader.
March 7, 2012
Annabel Joseph can do no wrong. In her latest book we meet Kelsey a young, impressionable American training with the circus in France. She sees Theo disciplining his sub and is turned on. She can't help obsesses over him. When tragedy strikes she goes to him to offer her condolences and ends up in bed with him. Thus begins a stormy sexual relationship. Theo is not as hard core as this author's previous males have characters but he is alpha all the way.
May 4, 2018
It was a nice change from all the new self published works out there today. It was well written and flowed with story. The story evolved but I was a bit disappointed that the "who done it" wasn't a bit more played out. There was only a brief summary to who slit the silk ribbons. I think a bit more could have been elaborated there. I can say that I would be interested in seeing how her other books faired.
April 2, 2013
I think this book is spectacular! The setting, the characters, the themes...
The only reason I knocked off a star was because I struggled to connect with Kelsey or Theo for the first half of the book. I am excited to see if Ms Joseph gives Jason and Michel their own stories; I would definitely read them!
The only reason I knocked off a star was because I struggled to connect with Kelsey or Theo for the first half of the book. I am excited to see if Ms Joseph gives Jason and Michel their own stories; I would definitely read them!
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