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Magic Mansion
Professor Topaz is tired of fending off advice that he should retire in Vegas where magicians his age have an easier time finding work.
Ricardo Hart's career has sunk so low, he's resorted to shaking his moneymaker at bachelorette parties.
But there's a casting call for a new reality show called Magic Mansion that could change everything for these two gay stage magicians, one recovering from the loss of his partner, the other awe-struck by the presence of his idol. Each is poised for a critical second chance: at fame, and at love.
Who will win? Step into the Mansion, and find out....
(Gay Romance)
Ricardo Hart's career has sunk so low, he's resorted to shaking his moneymaker at bachelorette parties.
But there's a casting call for a new reality show called Magic Mansion that could change everything for these two gay stage magicians, one recovering from the loss of his partner, the other awe-struck by the presence of his idol. Each is poised for a critical second chance: at fame, and at love.
Who will win? Step into the Mansion, and find out....
(Gay Romance)
341 pages, ebook
First published April 1, 2012
22 people are currently reading
577 people want to read
About the author
Jordan Castillo Price
138 books2,131 followersAuthor and artist Jordan Castillo Price writes paranormal sci-fi thrillers colored by her time in the Midwest, from inner city Chicago, to various cities across southern Wisconsin. She’s settled in a 1910 Cape Cod near Lake Michigan with tons of character and a plethora of bizarre spiders. Any disembodied noises, she’s decided, will be blamed on the ice maker.
Jordan is best known as the author of the PsyCop series, an unfolding tale of paranormal mystery and suspense starring Victor Bayne, a gay medium who's plagued by ghostly visitations.
Jordan is best known as the author of the PsyCop series, an unfolding tale of paranormal mystery and suspense starring Victor Bayne, a gay medium who's plagued by ghostly visitations.
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April 12, 2012I'm stunned this massive novel has come to fruition so quickly, but here it is: Magic Mansion, the reality show where the serial readers actually got to vote magicians out of the Mansion!
Not only is the novel action-packed and fun, but the emotional notes hit some surprising depths. I feel like it's the most romantic story I've ever written.
Not only is the novel action-packed and fun, but the emotional notes hit some surprising depths. I feel like it's the most romantic story I've ever written.
June 10, 2021
Too much reality, not enough magic.
Age gap (30 years) 😱
Reality show about magicians
A lot of behind the scenes reality showing
Real magic exist, but supposedly one shouldn’t use it too often.
This was a serial that JCP wrote and her readers got to vote contestants off the “show” (cute idea)
2 main POV’s with 2 minor ones
Hard to keep the many characters straight in my head
Long
I wanted more magic
Great UST
Who knew that spend could turn into a white butterfly?
HEA
I would not read this again, BUT I would LISTEN to it if ever came out on audiobook.
Age gap (30 years) 😱
Reality show about magicians
A lot of behind the scenes reality showing
Real magic exist, but supposedly one shouldn’t use it too often.
This was a serial that JCP wrote and her readers got to vote contestants off the “show” (cute idea)
2 main POV’s with 2 minor ones
Hard to keep the many characters straight in my head
Long
I wanted more magic
Great UST
Who knew that spend could turn into a white butterfly?
HEA
I would not read this again, BUT I would LISTEN to it if ever came out on audiobook.
January 29, 2016
Oh. Wow. Review soon at bmbr. Just know, I have the HUGEST HUGEST crush on Professor Topaz.
Second read this month. Still love it!
Aaaannnndddd - here's the review, as previously posted at BMBR.
I am having so much trouble writing a review for this book, Not because I didn't like it, as you can see I gave it five hearts and I read it twice within about ten days, but because I want to write an essay on everything I loved about it, which would be impractical and pretty spoilerish! I've highlighted the hell out of it as well, something I rarely do.
On the surface I shouldn't like this book. I read the blurb and it is about two things I'm pretty unfond of - magic and reality TV (with one I HATE not knowing how it's done and with the other I hate watching desperate people be humiliated for money) In fact, it is fair to say I only read this because it was written by Jordan Castillo Price and she is one of my go-to authors. I am SO glad I did.
There is one reason that this book resounded with me so much and that is because I fell utterly in love with Professor Topaz. I think (I hope) readaholics will understand this, that feeling of a character being more real than actual real life people, to the point where you can't get them out of your head. I guess it's why fandoms are so big, the interweb has given us obsessives a place to meet and share our passions.
Unlike TV programmes though, with a book there is no actor to put a visual to the name, no visual to blur the lines between character and actor (does that make sense). With a book it is literally all in your head. or my head in this case. Professor Topaz, John, got in my head so much that I started rereading pretty much straight away. One particular scene near the end is so imprinted on my brain that it's what I've been thinking of before I fall to sleep each night. It's not even the scene so much as John on the scene. It's stuck in my brain like some kind of visual earworm. A mindworm?
Why? I don't know. I've tried to put into words what it is about this character that has me so stupid, and all I come up with is a rambling paragraph of nonsense. He's far from your typical 'hero' - for a start he's 63. He's not an alpha male in the typical body-builder, muscles of steel, bad boy kinda way. Nor is he a geeky nerd. He's just him...
Enigmatic.
Solid.
Un-fazed.
A gentleman.
Kind.
Cool.
Clever.
Athletic.
Generous.
Wise.
Solemn.
Charming in a quiet way.
Sincere.
A showman.
Sexy.
True.
A friend.
Loving.
Strong.
He got inside my head and I couldn't stop thinking about him. I loved it. I love being consumed by a book, love that feeling of falling onto it, of living it.
For those of you who have yet to try work by this author, I would really, really encourage you to do so. Especially if you're fed up of reading the same stories again and again. I love her characters and settings.
Magic Mansion was an interactive book as it was being written. It is set around a group of magicians competing in a kind of Big Brother environment. during the writing process, the contestants of the 'show' were voted off by her readers. Castillo-Price didn't know who would get voted off - and from what I've read, was often surprised by the result - which made the story writing fairly spontaneous. It's difficult to plan if you don't know which character is going to be still in the book. What a skilled writer, I'm very much in awe.
We are with the magicians as they experience life in the mansion and as they find out which tasks they are to compete in. Though it is mainly written from John and Ricardo's POV (I also love Ricardo, by the way, he just didn't side-swipe me quite as much as the Professor, I totally get how he fell for the man), we do have some 'video diary' thoughts of other contestants and some introductions as if we were watching the show itself. It sounds like it shouldn't work... but it does.
The cast of characters and crew are fantastic. The tasks and eliminations; amazing. The hints of true magic in a world of show magicians and illusionists are perfect. It really is a fantastic book that I'm beyond glad I read.
A copy of this book was given in exchange for an honest review.
Second read this month. Still love it!
Aaaannnndddd - here's the review, as previously posted at BMBR.
I am having so much trouble writing a review for this book, Not because I didn't like it, as you can see I gave it five hearts and I read it twice within about ten days, but because I want to write an essay on everything I loved about it, which would be impractical and pretty spoilerish! I've highlighted the hell out of it as well, something I rarely do.
On the surface I shouldn't like this book. I read the blurb and it is about two things I'm pretty unfond of - magic and reality TV (with one I HATE not knowing how it's done and with the other I hate watching desperate people be humiliated for money) In fact, it is fair to say I only read this because it was written by Jordan Castillo Price and she is one of my go-to authors. I am SO glad I did.
"John was stunning in an Edwardian cutaway coat and deep burgundy ascot. In his top hat (silk, not satin) and his striped trousers, he looked like he was seven feet tall. But it wasn't just height he possessed. It was presence. His audience approached him in awe, and when he greeted them, gravely, in his deep and profoundly serious voice, Ricardo could practically see them all break out in goosebumps.
In fact, he did, himself. "
There is one reason that this book resounded with me so much and that is because I fell utterly in love with Professor Topaz. I think (I hope) readaholics will understand this, that feeling of a character being more real than actual real life people, to the point where you can't get them out of your head. I guess it's why fandoms are so big, the interweb has given us obsessives a place to meet and share our passions.
Unlike TV programmes though, with a book there is no actor to put a visual to the name, no visual to blur the lines between character and actor (does that make sense). With a book it is literally all in your head. or my head in this case. Professor Topaz, John, got in my head so much that I started rereading pretty much straight away. One particular scene near the end is so imprinted on my brain that it's what I've been thinking of before I fall to sleep each night. It's not even the scene so much as John on the scene. It's stuck in my brain like some kind of visual earworm. A mindworm?
Why? I don't know. I've tried to put into words what it is about this character that has me so stupid, and all I come up with is a rambling paragraph of nonsense. He's far from your typical 'hero' - for a start he's 63. He's not an alpha male in the typical body-builder, muscles of steel, bad boy kinda way. Nor is he a geeky nerd. He's just him...
Enigmatic.
Solid.
Un-fazed.
A gentleman.
Kind.
Cool.
Clever.
Athletic.
Generous.
Wise.
Solemn.
Charming in a quiet way.
Sincere.
A showman.
Sexy.
True.
A friend.
Loving.
Strong.
He got inside my head and I couldn't stop thinking about him. I loved it. I love being consumed by a book, love that feeling of falling onto it, of living it.
For those of you who have yet to try work by this author, I would really, really encourage you to do so. Especially if you're fed up of reading the same stories again and again. I love her characters and settings.
Magic Mansion was an interactive book as it was being written. It is set around a group of magicians competing in a kind of Big Brother environment. during the writing process, the contestants of the 'show' were voted off by her readers. Castillo-Price didn't know who would get voted off - and from what I've read, was often surprised by the result - which made the story writing fairly spontaneous. It's difficult to plan if you don't know which character is going to be still in the book. What a skilled writer, I'm very much in awe.
We are with the magicians as they experience life in the mansion and as they find out which tasks they are to compete in. Though it is mainly written from John and Ricardo's POV (I also love Ricardo, by the way, he just didn't side-swipe me quite as much as the Professor, I totally get how he fell for the man), we do have some 'video diary' thoughts of other contestants and some introductions as if we were watching the show itself. It sounds like it shouldn't work... but it does.
The cast of characters and crew are fantastic. The tasks and eliminations; amazing. The hints of true magic in a world of show magicians and illusionists are perfect. It really is a fantastic book that I'm beyond glad I read.
A copy of this book was given in exchange for an honest review.
November 12, 2014
I just LOVED this. <3
June 24, 2012
When I pick up a new JCP book I always get just a little shiver of anticipation, because I know it will have great characters, a real plot, and a satisfying ending. Magic Mansion is no exception. From the opening scene, John captured my heart with his class, his compassion, and his calm stoic approach to life. He is a wonderful character, an older man with resilience and the courage to go after a second chance at love. Ricardo is sweet as the Professor-Topaz-fanboy whose enthusiasm becomes more real as he gets to know the man behind the perfect performance.
The reality show setting is wonderful - funny and a little cutting and the perfect excuse for a group of fascinating characters at odds with each other. JCP makes it work while still poking fun at the genre. The secondary characters are well-crafted and distinct.
But the heart of the book is John, Professor Topaz, wrestling with how to handle his attraction to Ricardo in that fishbowl environment, how to deal with the slings and arrows of both fortune and his opponents, and when and how to use his true Magic, and for whose benefit. This story kept me rivited to the last line. A favorite and a reread immediately.
The reality show setting is wonderful - funny and a little cutting and the perfect excuse for a group of fascinating characters at odds with each other. JCP makes it work while still poking fun at the genre. The secondary characters are well-crafted and distinct.
But the heart of the book is John, Professor Topaz, wrestling with how to handle his attraction to Ricardo in that fishbowl environment, how to deal with the slings and arrows of both fortune and his opponents, and when and how to use his true Magic, and for whose benefit. This story kept me rivited to the last line. A favorite and a reread immediately.
February 8, 2016
What a lovely and truly magical story that was!
Full review (and I have a giveaway on the blog this week of an ebook copy of Magic mansion - http://elliereadsfiction.blogspot.bg/...
This was such an expected and pleasant read! I do love magic and though I'm not a fan of reality shows, I'm curious how they can be presented in fiction. I love Ms Price writing - imaginative, great world building and attention to detail and powerful and unforgettable characters, so I decided to give it a try.
Now, romances with big age differences are not my thing usually and initially I had some worries about that aspect of the story but as it turns out I can trust Ms Price completely to build a believable and ultimately, very tender, very real and emotional love story. It was Professor Topaz and Richardo the Magnificent romance that I loved the most in this book.
The setting was also great - a reality show with magicians going through all sort of challenges to get the big prize. Ms Price created a whole cast of intriguing magicians and TV crew thus giving the reader a rich, realistic world where the passion and chemistry between the Professor and Richardo shone so brightly.
At times I felt their romance was overshadowed by the reality show element in the story but it didn't prevent me from enjoying the slow build up of their romance. In a things happened rather quickly between them, the I-love-yous were said somewhat in a hurry, and at the same time it all felt excruciatingly slow because being in a reality show did not allow them to really come together as a couple till the end.
I liked them both but the Professor definitely stole the show for me. His journey back to being able to give and receive love (at the age of 63) was phenomenal - so personal and intimate. There is a depth to his character and his emotions that I find irresistible. Richardo was his opposite, at least in appearance - easy going and fun and caring. He is the kind of person that is easy to love and be friends with but he had his fears and insecurities to overcome and so many dreams to follow through. Together they complemented each other in the best possible way and made a mesmerising couple. You can't help but want them to overcome all odds and find happiness together.
This a contemporary romance with strong social elements, yet there is a touch of paranormal in it, we are talking about magicians after all, I loved how it was interwoven in the story. The reader is pretty much grounded in reality with the brutally honest presentation of the what happens behind the scene of a reality show and the small leaps into the True Magic scattered throughout the story were a pure pleasure to read.
Magic Mansion is a sweet and tender a love story but also a story about life in general - about finding happiness, being successful, forming friendships and just interacting with people. It plays a lot with ideas of identity and projected image, making the reader look deeper into things to find their true significance and ultimately appreciate all the things that bring us joy and make us laugh and love and feel complete.
Full review (and I have a giveaway on the blog this week of an ebook copy of Magic mansion - http://elliereadsfiction.blogspot.bg/...
This was such an expected and pleasant read! I do love magic and though I'm not a fan of reality shows, I'm curious how they can be presented in fiction. I love Ms Price writing - imaginative, great world building and attention to detail and powerful and unforgettable characters, so I decided to give it a try.
Now, romances with big age differences are not my thing usually and initially I had some worries about that aspect of the story but as it turns out I can trust Ms Price completely to build a believable and ultimately, very tender, very real and emotional love story. It was Professor Topaz and Richardo the Magnificent romance that I loved the most in this book.
The setting was also great - a reality show with magicians going through all sort of challenges to get the big prize. Ms Price created a whole cast of intriguing magicians and TV crew thus giving the reader a rich, realistic world where the passion and chemistry between the Professor and Richardo shone so brightly.
At times I felt their romance was overshadowed by the reality show element in the story but it didn't prevent me from enjoying the slow build up of their romance. In a things happened rather quickly between them, the I-love-yous were said somewhat in a hurry, and at the same time it all felt excruciatingly slow because being in a reality show did not allow them to really come together as a couple till the end.
I liked them both but the Professor definitely stole the show for me. His journey back to being able to give and receive love (at the age of 63) was phenomenal - so personal and intimate. There is a depth to his character and his emotions that I find irresistible. Richardo was his opposite, at least in appearance - easy going and fun and caring. He is the kind of person that is easy to love and be friends with but he had his fears and insecurities to overcome and so many dreams to follow through. Together they complemented each other in the best possible way and made a mesmerising couple. You can't help but want them to overcome all odds and find happiness together.
This a contemporary romance with strong social elements, yet there is a touch of paranormal in it, we are talking about magicians after all, I loved how it was interwoven in the story. The reader is pretty much grounded in reality with the brutally honest presentation of the what happens behind the scene of a reality show and the small leaps into the True Magic scattered throughout the story were a pure pleasure to read.
Magic Mansion is a sweet and tender a love story but also a story about life in general - about finding happiness, being successful, forming friendships and just interacting with people. It plays a lot with ideas of identity and projected image, making the reader look deeper into things to find their true significance and ultimately appreciate all the things that bring us joy and make us laugh and love and feel complete.
April 17, 2012
Alrighty, I'm finally getting around to reviewing this one. I'm not sure why I waited... I know that part of it, for sure, is the fact that I read up into the wee hours finishing this one because I couldn't put it down. Also, I think I needed to sit with this story a while before I let it go by writing the review. So I decided that, no matter, I'm definitely buying the paperback when it is released so that I can continue to enjoy it.
There are so many wonderful aspects of this story that I just can't do them justice with a review. As always Jordan's writing just... it just, I don't know it feels like it slams right into me and I just get it, you know? I feel like her writing always takes hold of me right away and it carries me through everything, but enlightening everything along the way. Her prose is so crafty that she really manipulates it to bring across whatever she needs to. This is something that is definitely hard to describe, but I challenge anyone who hasn't read anything she's written to give anything of hers a try and you'll see what I mean. This is an inelegant way to say what I mean, but then again it is something that you really have to read and understand for yourself.
There's also something really magical (hah) about the fact that this was written as a serial, and as such not only is completely perfect for the story and the way it is set up (as a reality show) but also allows the reader to really savor and stretch out this wonderful story for however long they want. I miss being able to vote since I did not read this on her newsletter like some, but I'm also happy that I was able to devour it in one sitting.
Some of these characters are SO FUNNY, I just can't describe it. I love Jordan's characters (from Vic to Charity and Oscar), because they're always quirky and grounded in some way, be it reality, satire, archetype and this story really profiles the characters she comes up with because of the huge cast. She's written before that this story was a labor of love in some ways and I can definitely see that this was a story that just needed out of her. She's really wowed me with this one and made me fall in love with her all over again.
I usually try not to sound like a fanboy (well, girl, lol) but this story deserves it :) I'm excited to read it again as soon as I get my paperback copy!
There are so many wonderful aspects of this story that I just can't do them justice with a review. As always Jordan's writing just... it just, I don't know it feels like it slams right into me and I just get it, you know? I feel like her writing always takes hold of me right away and it carries me through everything, but enlightening everything along the way. Her prose is so crafty that she really manipulates it to bring across whatever she needs to. This is something that is definitely hard to describe, but I challenge anyone who hasn't read anything she's written to give anything of hers a try and you'll see what I mean. This is an inelegant way to say what I mean, but then again it is something that you really have to read and understand for yourself.
There's also something really magical (hah) about the fact that this was written as a serial, and as such not only is completely perfect for the story and the way it is set up (as a reality show) but also allows the reader to really savor and stretch out this wonderful story for however long they want. I miss being able to vote since I did not read this on her newsletter like some, but I'm also happy that I was able to devour it in one sitting.
Some of these characters are SO FUNNY, I just can't describe it. I love Jordan's characters (from Vic to Charity and Oscar), because they're always quirky and grounded in some way, be it reality, satire, archetype and this story really profiles the characters she comes up with because of the huge cast. She's written before that this story was a labor of love in some ways and I can definitely see that this was a story that just needed out of her. She's really wowed me with this one and made me fall in love with her all over again.
I usually try not to sound like a fanboy (well, girl, lol) but this story deserves it :) I'm excited to read it again as soon as I get my paperback copy!
October 15, 2016
Another 5 star to JCP? I know I know but JCP's books are just so good.
Magic Mansion was a very entretaining read i didn't expect to have, considering how busy my days have been lately I'm surprised I devored the book so fast due to my eagerness to know what was going to happen next.
The Reality TV Show setting is amazing, full of diverse characters like any reality show has and the way we see the production of the show is funny, exciting yet heartbreaking at points were Price addresses the problems media faces due to the prejuice of the majority of the audience. All the characters feel rounded and not so stereotyped as you might expect.
John and Ricardo is a very good couple and they are very good characters on their own. Their chemistry is scorching hot and their moments together are sweet. I'm glad JCP decided to create a couple with a big age difference in favor of just pairing them up instead of aiming for a 'young hot magicians' just for titillation. John was the star of the show and i loved to see his past and how he slowly gave in to a second chance at love. Ricardo as, his stage name says, was magnificent. I loved him to bits. I would have liked a deeper exploration of the True Magic part of them, but overall i enjoyed how it added an edge to the story in addition to the social commentary.
The cherry of the cake was the message of acceptance of one's identity either sexual or cultural, the importance of love, and to appreciate life in the moment because you never know what will happen tomorrow :)
Magic Mansion was a very entretaining read i didn't expect to have, considering how busy my days have been lately I'm surprised I devored the book so fast due to my eagerness to know what was going to happen next.
The Reality TV Show setting is amazing, full of diverse characters like any reality show has and the way we see the production of the show is funny, exciting yet heartbreaking at points were Price addresses the problems media faces due to the prejuice of the majority of the audience. All the characters feel rounded and not so stereotyped as you might expect.
John and Ricardo is a very good couple and they are very good characters on their own. Their chemistry is scorching hot and their moments together are sweet. I'm glad JCP decided to create a couple with a big age difference in favor of just pairing them up instead of aiming for a 'young hot magicians' just for titillation. John was the star of the show and i loved to see his past and how he slowly gave in to a second chance at love. Ricardo as, his stage name says, was magnificent. I loved him to bits. I would have liked a deeper exploration of the True Magic part of them, but overall i enjoyed how it added an edge to the story in addition to the social commentary.
The cherry of the cake was the message of acceptance of one's identity either sexual or cultural, the importance of love, and to appreciate life in the moment because you never know what will happen tomorrow :)
July 17, 2016
4.5/5.0
I am not a fan of reality television programs, but when I read a glowing recommendation for this book by an author I admire, I decided this would be my second JCP book. (I know - I don't know why I haven't read her books before this now. Just seriously glad that I finally did)
Magic Mansion is set within a reality series called Magic Mansion. It begins with us meeting John Topaz or better know as Professor Topaz. He is a wonderful character. A magician in what I imagine as a traditional magician. He has the classic look,an elegance, though slightly somber and in this story has True Magic. His life has not gone as planned, money is tight and jobs are not abundant. Through some prodding by his publicist he auditions for the series, Magic Mansion. During the auditions he meets Ricardo Hart also known as Ricardo the Magnificent. The Professor is Ricardo's hero and when they have to perform an audition together they find a mutual attraction.
The story centers around John and Ricardo as well as the ten other contestants competing. I love the way the author brings this show to life on the page. It is captivating. I had a wonderful time feeling like an audience participant, but having the back story as well. The behind the scenes gossip, team dynamics, personality conflicts and camaraderie and the not so glitzy reality of making a reality show. I enjoyed the varied personalities of the characters. (They are all memorable, but Charity and Oscar - fun but creepy and Muriel is delightful) The story is entertaining and fun.
Recommended
I am not a fan of reality television programs, but when I read a glowing recommendation for this book by an author I admire, I decided this would be my second JCP book. (I know - I don't know why I haven't read her books before this now. Just seriously glad that I finally did)
Magic Mansion is set within a reality series called Magic Mansion. It begins with us meeting John Topaz or better know as Professor Topaz. He is a wonderful character. A magician in what I imagine as a traditional magician. He has the classic look,an elegance, though slightly somber and in this story has True Magic. His life has not gone as planned, money is tight and jobs are not abundant. Through some prodding by his publicist he auditions for the series, Magic Mansion. During the auditions he meets Ricardo Hart also known as Ricardo the Magnificent. The Professor is Ricardo's hero and when they have to perform an audition together they find a mutual attraction.
The story centers around John and Ricardo as well as the ten other contestants competing. I love the way the author brings this show to life on the page. It is captivating. I had a wonderful time feeling like an audience participant, but having the back story as well. The behind the scenes gossip, team dynamics, personality conflicts and camaraderie and the not so glitzy reality of making a reality show. I enjoyed the varied personalities of the characters. (They are all memorable, but Charity and Oscar - fun but creepy and Muriel is delightful) The story is entertaining and fun.
Recommended
December 3, 2012
4.5 stars
This book is so full of win that I can hardly find the words. Well, I can say that, to the extent of my knowledge, nothing similar was ever written in this genre.
A social commentary, a story about identity and images we project, about magic of living, a love story... rich and detailed... with 15 - 16 major characters... 117,000 words long and never gets boring or drags... this is something only this author can do. Absolutely stunning.
It took me a while to get into a story, considering that I am not particularly fond of reality shows or magicians, but once that I did get into it, I couldn't stop reading. I adored John and Ricardo and the way they were dealing with their deepening feelings, the possible implications of their relationship inside the Mansion and on their careers and future. I loved to hate Kevin, yo! XD
I can't go all deep and analytical now, the impressions are still fresh. For that, go to read Val's review. It's awesome.
Highly, highly recommended.
This book is so full of win that I can hardly find the words. Well, I can say that, to the extent of my knowledge, nothing similar was ever written in this genre.
A social commentary, a story about identity and images we project, about magic of living, a love story... rich and detailed... with 15 - 16 major characters... 117,000 words long and never gets boring or drags... this is something only this author can do. Absolutely stunning.
It took me a while to get into a story, considering that I am not particularly fond of reality shows or magicians, but once that I did get into it, I couldn't stop reading. I adored John and Ricardo and the way they were dealing with their deepening feelings, the possible implications of their relationship inside the Mansion and on their careers and future. I loved to hate Kevin, yo! XD
I can't go all deep and analytical now, the impressions are still fresh. For that, go to read Val's review. It's awesome.
Highly, highly recommended.
July 7, 2013
A lot of people commented that the style of this book was nice because you could easily drag it out and read it bit by bit... but I guess I'm just not a patient person. I blew through this, as I usually do with JCP's work. If I had to sum it up in one word; "enjoyable." It was just freakin' enjoyable. Sweet and funny and interesting and cute and sweet... did I mention sweet? There was really nothing to hate about Ricardo or John, but not in an obnoxious way, just in a they-are-genuinly-good-people way. It emphasized all the reasons I hate reality TV while at the same time, made me realize why people get sucked into it. It was just good fun.
July 2013 group read in M/M Romance Group.
July 2013 group read in M/M Romance Group.
July 18, 2012
even with some editing errors, this was perfect.
First I want to say how much I hate TV and reality shows. lol! Yet, this book still pulled me in and made me it's slave. All the characters were amazingly vibrant. I will read everything this woman writes!
First I want to say how much I hate TV and reality shows. lol! Yet, this book still pulled me in and made me it's slave. All the characters were amazingly vibrant. I will read everything this woman writes!
April 13, 2012
4.5 stars. Very good paranormal m/m romance about two magicians who briefly connect during auditions for a reality television show about magicians in which they both end up as participants (along with ten others). Who will take home the glory... and the $250,000 prize? Wonderfully written and with bonus points for a completely unique story concept!
October 14, 2016
4.5 stars. An amusing m/m romance involving the cast and crew of a reality tv show. A dozen magicians are brought together in order to compete in various challenges to win the big prize. The main characters are 35 year old Ricardo the Magnificent and 62 year old Professor Topaz who share a phenomenon called 'True magic' as well as an overwhelming attraction to each other.
April 22, 2012
This book is DELICIOUS.
That's what I kept thinking as I read--I would come up for air occasionally, and feel filled with giddy awe. This is a wonderfully addicting, suspenseful, hilarious, and romantic story about a very diverse group of magicians, "picked to live in a mansion and have their lives taped" as they perform in a Top Chef-like reality show to see who will win the big prize and be named the Grandmaster Magician.
Will the winner be one of our two main POVs? Professor Topaz, a regal "old school" magician being pushed towards retiring to Vegas shows, or the younger Ricardo the Magnificent, whose love of magic hasn't been dampened by the lack of good gigs beyond the bachelorette party circuit (and who just found out that he'll be auditioning alongside Topaz, his idol.) Or will it be one of the other ten contestants--who include a posing street magician, an off-the-wagon escape artist, and a "Math Wizard"?
The author adeptly juggles more than 12 characters without having the story (or the reader) feel overburdened. Quite the opposite, it's an exhilarating book to read, and it's just as addictive as when you find yourself caught in hour 4 of some 12-hour Bravo reality show weekend marathon.
The main difference is that as the reader, you get the luxury of being in the characters heads as opposed to being the TV viewer, who has to watch a constructed "real" story that is provided after careful editing and the inclusion of melodramatic background music. You're reading from the contestants' viewpoint, and feeling the same confusion, fear, excitement, and loss without understanding yet the weight of how their stories might be later manipulated for TV. (The author also could work for TV because she created some realistically terrible reality TV show stunts. You really feel for the characters as they move through the competition, but none of it felt over the top. It felt horribly real, like it's probably happening on TV right now…as you read this.)
There's a lot of great humor (I found myself usually laughing out loud at whatever Muriel the medium would say), and a very tender, sweet m/m romance between our main characters, the development of which is as riveting (if not more) than the ongoing competition.
There are also a lot of neat themes and underlying commentaries—about sexism in the field of Magic (and the entertainment world in general), identity, and being yourself, even when that self is in the public eye.
If you've read JCP's works before, then you probably already know that she's an excellent writer--this book is just one more example you can point at to illustrate it. It's an enthralling and engaging story, fantastic characters that each shine with their own authentic voice, and a romance that I can simply describe as "heart-warming" (with a sigh.) I even got all teary in the ending chapter when one of the last Truths was revealed.
Highly, highly recommended. My only other recommendation is maybe try to reserve a solid block of time before sitting down to read--once you start, it's really hard to put down. (Enjoy!)
That's what I kept thinking as I read--I would come up for air occasionally, and feel filled with giddy awe. This is a wonderfully addicting, suspenseful, hilarious, and romantic story about a very diverse group of magicians, "picked to live in a mansion and have their lives taped" as they perform in a Top Chef-like reality show to see who will win the big prize and be named the Grandmaster Magician.
Will the winner be one of our two main POVs? Professor Topaz, a regal "old school" magician being pushed towards retiring to Vegas shows, or the younger Ricardo the Magnificent, whose love of magic hasn't been dampened by the lack of good gigs beyond the bachelorette party circuit (and who just found out that he'll be auditioning alongside Topaz, his idol.) Or will it be one of the other ten contestants--who include a posing street magician, an off-the-wagon escape artist, and a "Math Wizard"?
The author adeptly juggles more than 12 characters without having the story (or the reader) feel overburdened. Quite the opposite, it's an exhilarating book to read, and it's just as addictive as when you find yourself caught in hour 4 of some 12-hour Bravo reality show weekend marathon.
The main difference is that as the reader, you get the luxury of being in the characters heads as opposed to being the TV viewer, who has to watch a constructed "real" story that is provided after careful editing and the inclusion of melodramatic background music. You're reading from the contestants' viewpoint, and feeling the same confusion, fear, excitement, and loss without understanding yet the weight of how their stories might be later manipulated for TV. (The author also could work for TV because she created some realistically terrible reality TV show stunts. You really feel for the characters as they move through the competition, but none of it felt over the top. It felt horribly real, like it's probably happening on TV right now…as you read this.)
There's a lot of great humor (I found myself usually laughing out loud at whatever Muriel the medium would say), and a very tender, sweet m/m romance between our main characters, the development of which is as riveting (if not more) than the ongoing competition.
There are also a lot of neat themes and underlying commentaries—about sexism in the field of Magic (and the entertainment world in general), identity, and being yourself, even when that self is in the public eye.
If you've read JCP's works before, then you probably already know that she's an excellent writer--this book is just one more example you can point at to illustrate it. It's an enthralling and engaging story, fantastic characters that each shine with their own authentic voice, and a romance that I can simply describe as "heart-warming" (with a sigh.) I even got all teary in the ending chapter when one of the last Truths was revealed.
Highly, highly recommended. My only other recommendation is maybe try to reserve a solid block of time before sitting down to read--once you start, it's really hard to put down. (Enjoy!)
September 16, 2015
I vividly remember, many years ago, a date surprised me with tickets to see David Copperfield. My reaction? "You're taking me to see a magic show?" with about as much enthusiasm as if he'd said we were going on a five-mile hike. I was young and stupid. Sue me. However, no more than twenty minutes in, and I was hooked. Granted, Mr. Copperfield is the crème de la crème of illusionist venues, but I remember being fascinated at how it was done, and absolutely certain that it was real.
"John had discovered life was more like surfing. You could try to plan, but in the end, there was nothing to do but keep your head above water and do your best to catch the waves so they didn’t pound you."
Professor John Topaz is sixty-three, a member of the old school magician brigade, the days when it wasn't all done by technology or worse yet, as comedy. John has the spark of True magic within him, something very few magicians actually have. Except Ricardo Hart has it, and the thirty-five year old magician is almost more than John can believe. Ricardo has had a crush on John since he saw him perform when he was eleven. He can't believe they're both going to be contestants on the new reality TV show, Magic Mansion.
Oh what a fabulous idea to have a reality game show! The challenges, the teams, the competition, the backstabbing, the romance. Wait, what? But wait, I'll get to that. I've got to seriously applaud the author on the challenges she engineered. If this were a real TV show, I'd be hooked from the first moment. The author gave me immense excitement, truly challenging aspects, and, of course, the inevitable one really bad guy who wants to get Ricardo and John taken out of the game, perhaps permanently.
"Never perform True magic when the rabble is close enough to see it’s no trick…including fellow magicians with plenty of technique and no Truth. Especially those. Because they could sense the inner circle to which they would never belong, and their envy was particularly toxic."
I fell for John. Hard. An honorable, decent, kind, talented man, with a painful past, John struck something inside of me. It was easy to see why Ricardo had a crush on him for all of these years. Except, Ricardo's crush was based on John's persona, and weeks of being on Magic Mansion gave him the opportunity to get to know the real man. I adored watching their love story evolve. It was gentle, tender, compassionate, and real. Everything I could've hoped for.
An unbelievably wonderful book! Thank you, Jordan, you transported me into a thrilling reality with a lovely romance.
"John had discovered life was more like surfing. You could try to plan, but in the end, there was nothing to do but keep your head above water and do your best to catch the waves so they didn’t pound you."
Professor John Topaz is sixty-three, a member of the old school magician brigade, the days when it wasn't all done by technology or worse yet, as comedy. John has the spark of True magic within him, something very few magicians actually have. Except Ricardo Hart has it, and the thirty-five year old magician is almost more than John can believe. Ricardo has had a crush on John since he saw him perform when he was eleven. He can't believe they're both going to be contestants on the new reality TV show, Magic Mansion.
Oh what a fabulous idea to have a reality game show! The challenges, the teams, the competition, the backstabbing, the romance. Wait, what? But wait, I'll get to that. I've got to seriously applaud the author on the challenges she engineered. If this were a real TV show, I'd be hooked from the first moment. The author gave me immense excitement, truly challenging aspects, and, of course, the inevitable one really bad guy who wants to get Ricardo and John taken out of the game, perhaps permanently.
"Never perform True magic when the rabble is close enough to see it’s no trick…including fellow magicians with plenty of technique and no Truth. Especially those. Because they could sense the inner circle to which they would never belong, and their envy was particularly toxic."
I fell for John. Hard. An honorable, decent, kind, talented man, with a painful past, John struck something inside of me. It was easy to see why Ricardo had a crush on him for all of these years. Except, Ricardo's crush was based on John's persona, and weeks of being on Magic Mansion gave him the opportunity to get to know the real man. I adored watching their love story evolve. It was gentle, tender, compassionate, and real. Everything I could've hoped for.
An unbelievably wonderful book! Thank you, Jordan, you transported me into a thrilling reality with a lovely romance.
March 12, 2013
4.5 stars
I loved it and stayed up waaay too late to finish it because I couldn't put it down. Although I enjoyed the romance aspect of it, that was really a secondary or tertiary focus for me. Mostly I was just caught up in the characters and the intrigue around how the whole Magic Mansion thing would play out, and I loved how threads of the supernatural were woven into the everyday world.
I don't watch much TV and have only ever watched a couple of reality shows, but I thought it made for a great novel. I really love that JCP writes to the assumption that her readers are intelligent, so she doesn't spell every little thing out for us. It meant that sometimes I had to flip back a page or three, to remind myself what had led to the current situation, the better to frame it in my mind. But I'm happy to do that, and much prefer that to being spoon-fed pap.
I really liked all of the characters (well, except for a few I was obviously not supposed to like) and cared about them succeeding. I kept going back and forth on whether I wanted John or Ricardo to win, and found the ultimate resolution satisfying. This was one of the best books I've read recently, and a refreshing change from the majority of what's out there.
I loved it and stayed up waaay too late to finish it because I couldn't put it down. Although I enjoyed the romance aspect of it, that was really a secondary or tertiary focus for me. Mostly I was just caught up in the characters and the intrigue around how the whole Magic Mansion thing would play out, and I loved how threads of the supernatural were woven into the everyday world.
I don't watch much TV and have only ever watched a couple of reality shows, but I thought it made for a great novel. I really love that JCP writes to the assumption that her readers are intelligent, so she doesn't spell every little thing out for us. It meant that sometimes I had to flip back a page or three, to remind myself what had led to the current situation, the better to frame it in my mind. But I'm happy to do that, and much prefer that to being spoon-fed pap.
I really liked all of the characters (well, except for a few I was obviously not supposed to like) and cared about them succeeding. I kept going back and forth on whether I wanted John or Ricardo to win, and found the ultimate resolution satisfying. This was one of the best books I've read recently, and a refreshing change from the majority of what's out there.
January 23, 2016
I apologize, I loved this book & will get all ranty & I have NO way with words.
I was completely captivated by this book. What I loved in this story- the writing flowed so smoothly. The story was fun, sarcastic, funny, and romantic. It so perfectly mimicked the "challenge reality TV" nonsense that for a while was the majority on TV. It captured the shock value and media perception of what is on TV, where at times talent was not the determining factor.
The story, MC's, supporting characters (there were many) and relationships were so well developed through the story. Their interactions "fit" together. I adored John & Ricardo. John was so authentic, strong, and glamorously-sexy. Ricardo was vibrant and true to himself and together they were wonderful. The supporting characters were all written so well, many strong personalities as you got to know them and understand them you fell for them as well.
This is my second book by Jordan Castillo Price, Meatworks being an all time FAVORITE! Her writing draws me to the characters and I get so attached. It's the feeling of connection with the both the story and characters. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
I was completely captivated by this book. What I loved in this story- the writing flowed so smoothly. The story was fun, sarcastic, funny, and romantic. It so perfectly mimicked the "challenge reality TV" nonsense that for a while was the majority on TV. It captured the shock value and media perception of what is on TV, where at times talent was not the determining factor.
The story, MC's, supporting characters (there were many) and relationships were so well developed through the story. Their interactions "fit" together. I adored John & Ricardo. John was so authentic, strong, and glamorously-sexy. Ricardo was vibrant and true to himself and together they were wonderful. The supporting characters were all written so well, many strong personalities as you got to know them and understand them you fell for them as well.
This is my second book by Jordan Castillo Price, Meatworks being an all time FAVORITE! Her writing draws me to the characters and I get so attached. It's the feeling of connection with the both the story and characters. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
January 29, 2016
4.5 Stars
loved it. romantic and suspenseful. A touch of real magic. Characters I liked and a cool setting.
loved it. romantic and suspenseful. A touch of real magic. Characters I liked and a cool setting.
January 19, 2016
Da bomb!
December 24, 2012
The first half was fun, but by the second half I'd grown tired of the reality show gimmick and was starting to pay more attention to what was missing from the story than what was there.
I wanted to know more about John and Ricardo (without the This Was Your Life moment). In addition to wanting to know more about John and Ricardo, the True magic that they both have seems really inconsistent -- who has it, how it works, the side-effects. Even if that was intentional, it was confusing.
Also, I find it hard to believe that Jia, whose costumes, performance style and mission statement all reference her Chinese heritage, would actually wear "Geisha makeup."
I wanted to know more about John and Ricardo (without the This Was Your Life moment). In addition to wanting to know more about John and Ricardo, the True magic that they both have seems really inconsistent -- who has it, how it works, the side-effects. Even if that was intentional, it was confusing.
Also, I find it hard to believe that Jia, whose costumes, performance style and mission statement all reference her Chinese heritage, would actually wear "Geisha makeup."
September 3, 2012
WOW, AMAZING!
What can I say that hasn't been said....The writing was fabulous. The first time I picked up this book I put it back down. I had been reading a lot of character driven books and wasn't quite in the mood for this adventure. The second time I picked it up, I was ready to be entertained. It was a great experience. We are so lucky to have writers like this among us. When you're in the mood to enter a new world and be taken for a ride.... don't miss out...this is an extraordinary experience. Thanks Ms. Price for sharing your talent with us, Amazing!
What can I say that hasn't been said....The writing was fabulous. The first time I picked up this book I put it back down. I had been reading a lot of character driven books and wasn't quite in the mood for this adventure. The second time I picked it up, I was ready to be entertained. It was a great experience. We are so lucky to have writers like this among us. When you're in the mood to enter a new world and be taken for a ride.... don't miss out...this is an extraordinary experience. Thanks Ms. Price for sharing your talent with us, Amazing!
January 17, 2013
Not sure why I didn't have this as read. I read it in serial format when it was in that format and LOVED it. I loved all the background about how a reality show is so "unreal" :-) and I really got caught up in all the characters. That whole freak-out by the ventriloquist will go down in my memory as a truly memorable, if disturbing, scene.
June 27, 2014
3.5 stars.
This was enjoyable in a slow, more-story-than-romance way.. I found some parts dragging, but the magic and reality show stuff were interesting enough. Despite some UF elements - there is little paranormal in this book..I would have liked to learn more about the True Magic thing.
This was enjoyable in a slow, more-story-than-romance way.. I found some parts dragging, but the magic and reality show stuff were interesting enough. Despite some UF elements - there is little paranormal in this book..I would have liked to learn more about the True Magic thing.
October 7, 2018
This book was on my TBR list for a long time, but I could not get myself to read it. I think it was because I did not really care for the cover, and the big age gap was a bit of a turn off. However, I am working through my list, and just started with the book, nevermind the cover. And I am so glad I did, because I really enjoyed this book.
Firstly, the two MC's are both wonderful characters. I totally fell in love with Professor Topaz. He is just so kind hearted, sincere, a truly good character. I rooted for him from the start. Then there is Ricardo the Magnificent. Also a fully developed character, and I could totally see myself being best friends with him. Kudo's to the author for developing not only two well liked main characters, but also a cast full of nuanced secondary characters.
Then there is the reality show. It was very well written, and although I do not like reality shows, I obviously liked to read about it, because I had a blast of a time. Even though the book is really long, the time flew by and I read it in one sitting. The age-gap was also done with sensitivity so it didn't bother me at all.
So, to sum it up: Great book, fantastic characters, sweet romance in an interesting setting.
Firstly, the two MC's are both wonderful characters. I totally fell in love with Professor Topaz. He is just so kind hearted, sincere, a truly good character. I rooted for him from the start. Then there is Ricardo the Magnificent. Also a fully developed character, and I could totally see myself being best friends with him. Kudo's to the author for developing not only two well liked main characters, but also a cast full of nuanced secondary characters.
Then there is the reality show. It was very well written, and although I do not like reality shows, I obviously liked to read about it, because I had a blast of a time. Even though the book is really long, the time flew by and I read it in one sitting. The age-gap was also done with sensitivity so it didn't bother me at all.
So, to sum it up: Great book, fantastic characters, sweet romance in an interesting setting.
March 4, 2013
4+ stars
EDIT 29.Mar.13: POSSIBLE SLIGHT SPOILERS as to some of the themes.
Flashes of genius, especially in the on- and backstage rendering of the Big Brother type fare of manipulated reality ( to which I am frequently subjected because of my hubby's fascination therewith,) married to my passion for illusionists, and my secret suspicion (or hope) that some of them do hide their more profound gifts in plain sight, and featuring the first truly hypnotic and sexy gay character (for me) in his sixties. JCP pulled so many unexpected rabbits out of her hat here that my slight disappointment at the lack of development into something more substantial, in terms of stakes and surprises, in the last third of the book must be forgiven. My expectations had been raised too high by my sheer delight at the sheer unlimited possibilities of Magic Mansion's ingredients.
I derived additional pleasure while reading from knowing the - to me ingenious and not previously encountered - serialization process JCP originally employed, i.e. readers actually voting off contestants every week, the results of which she includes in an appendix. A daring and hugely successful experiment, with the added bonus, for me personally, that JCP made an absolutely perfect decision by way of the outcome of the competition itself.
There are many elements that feel under-explored, such as the nature and use of True magic, which the characters avoid due to the possible consequences (and which, in this case, provides a fitting metaphor for the homosexual closet without JCP having to overly strain the real one, something I incidentally also, as I frequently express, often find in those fantasy m/m romances I like, where prejudice against shape shifters or ignorance of non-human mating customs stand in for the more depressing portrayal of "real" homophobia.)
Also somewhat disappointing were the illusionist's acts of the main characters, which could have been more innovative and clever to match their in some cases near-legendary reputations, and in others their portrayal as rising stars.
The fact that I harp on these points should suggest that, as far as the characters themselves are concerned, I found every last one of them unique and delightful, the fact that they were based on certain recognizable "types" being easily accommodated within the selection process for this kind of a show.
While I appreciated the milder portrayal of the show's producers, far less vicious than say in Ben Elton's
, something darker going on behind the scenes might have given the story the momentum to truly flourish past the mid-point, developing some of the more disturbing and dangerous elements and issues that were raised but then abandoned in favour of a more fluffy, but ultimately less satisfying, "prime-time" ready resolution.
Less satisfying primarily because I now really and achingly want to see my new favourite magical heroes get a chance to save the world as we know it, one sleight-of-nimble-hand and stroke-of-burnished-skin at a time, as a head-lining double act and assisted by some of their new friends. Which appears unlikely to be in their stars but, you never know, when there's magic and love in the air, miracles do happen.
On a side note, I was delighted to have been able to purchase this ebook directly from JCPbooks, who now also accepts my chosen method of internet payment. With the assumption that more of my money is going directly to the artists featured there than if I buy from a big online store, that's where I'll be picking up my next fix.
EDIT 29.Mar.13: POSSIBLE SLIGHT SPOILERS as to some of the themes.
Flashes of genius, especially in the on- and backstage rendering of the Big Brother type fare of manipulated reality ( to which I am frequently subjected because of my hubby's fascination therewith,) married to my passion for illusionists, and my secret suspicion (or hope) that some of them do hide their more profound gifts in plain sight, and featuring the first truly hypnotic and sexy gay character (for me) in his sixties. JCP pulled so many unexpected rabbits out of her hat here that my slight disappointment at the lack of development into something more substantial, in terms of stakes and surprises, in the last third of the book must be forgiven. My expectations had been raised too high by my sheer delight at the sheer unlimited possibilities of Magic Mansion's ingredients.
I derived additional pleasure while reading from knowing the - to me ingenious and not previously encountered - serialization process JCP originally employed, i.e. readers actually voting off contestants every week, the results of which she includes in an appendix. A daring and hugely successful experiment, with the added bonus, for me personally, that JCP made an absolutely perfect decision by way of the outcome of the competition itself.
There are many elements that feel under-explored, such as the nature and use of True magic, which the characters avoid due to the possible consequences (and which, in this case, provides a fitting metaphor for the homosexual closet without JCP having to overly strain the real one, something I incidentally also, as I frequently express, often find in those fantasy m/m romances I like, where prejudice against shape shifters or ignorance of non-human mating customs stand in for the more depressing portrayal of "real" homophobia.)
Also somewhat disappointing were the illusionist's acts of the main characters, which could have been more innovative and clever to match their in some cases near-legendary reputations, and in others their portrayal as rising stars.
The fact that I harp on these points should suggest that, as far as the characters themselves are concerned, I found every last one of them unique and delightful, the fact that they were based on certain recognizable "types" being easily accommodated within the selection process for this kind of a show.
While I appreciated the milder portrayal of the show's producers, far less vicious than say in Ben Elton's
, something darker going on behind the scenes might have given the story the momentum to truly flourish past the mid-point, developing some of the more disturbing and dangerous elements and issues that were raised but then abandoned in favour of a more fluffy, but ultimately less satisfying, "prime-time" ready resolution.Less satisfying primarily because I now really and achingly want to see my new favourite magical heroes get a chance to save the world as we know it, one sleight-of-nimble-hand and stroke-of-burnished-skin at a time, as a head-lining double act and assisted by some of their new friends. Which appears unlikely to be in their stars but, you never know, when there's magic and love in the air, miracles do happen.
On a side note, I was delighted to have been able to purchase this ebook directly from JCPbooks, who now also accepts my chosen method of internet payment. With the assumption that more of my money is going directly to the artists featured there than if I buy from a big online store, that's where I'll be picking up my next fix.
September 7, 2014
As usual, Jordan Castillo Price succeeded in capturing and holding my interest despite everything. The "everything?" The characters I couldn't keep straight; the subject matter, magic and magicians that hasn't interested me since elementary school; the reality TV show, which has never held my attention for more than one episode. ... There's more: a melancholy, handsome, over 65 magician and his True Magic and the 35 year old, adorable magician who reanimates his heart. There are plenty of other competitors, men and women, who form alliances and friendships and rivalries and all compete with the hope of exposure and a chance to advance their careers. These secondary characters were largely disappointing; I learn enough to be mildly interested in some of them but never enough to care much. In many cases I forgot who they were and never quite caught their personalities.
This book was perfection at portraying the essential triviality of this kind of TV program. No one involved cares a bit about magic or magicians, and the tests all play on extraneous details. Of course, there's conniving and bogus feuds and romances. It's all hard to take, and nothing much is advanced as the plot moves from one contest to the other and on to the finale. In the end it felt a bit like I'd put in a hard day at the office.
This book was perfection at portraying the essential triviality of this kind of TV program. No one involved cares a bit about magic or magicians, and the tests all play on extraneous details. Of course, there's conniving and bogus feuds and romances. It's all hard to take, and nothing much is advanced as the plot moves from one contest to the other and on to the finale. In the end it felt a bit like I'd put in a hard day at the office.
June 5, 2016
Awww. You would have to have a heart of stone to not get a fuzzy warm feeling from Professor Topaz and Ricardo the Magnificent's romance. They were adorable, and it's really refreshing to have the love interests in their 30's and 60's rather than younglings.
The story is themed around a reality TV show shoot. I hate reality TV and the way they manipulate contestants, words or even a look to follow their own narrative. Jordan captured this perfectly. There were many poignant moments in the book too
As I would expect with a story by Jordan Castillo Price, this was very well observed and well written. There wasn't as much sex as she would usually have in a story, but what there was, was well pitched and fitted into the narrative. The ending was also lovely. I would heartily recommend Magic Mansion.
The story is themed around a reality TV show shoot. I hate reality TV and the way they manipulate contestants, words or even a look to follow their own narrative. Jordan captured this perfectly. There were many poignant moments in the book too
As I would expect with a story by Jordan Castillo Price, this was very well observed and well written. There wasn't as much sex as she would usually have in a story, but what there was, was well pitched and fitted into the narrative. The ending was also lovely. I would heartily recommend Magic Mansion.
March 6, 2016
DFN at 30%
I tried. I tried hard, I swear.
I love the PsyCop series, and I'm not someone who's afraid of a 300 and more pages book.
I mean, at thirteen I read The Buddenbrook by Thomas Mann, and I loved it.
Years later, I devoured Anna Karenina and War and peace by Tolstoj.
So, I'm not someone that's in search of an easy and fast read.
But I know that a masterpiece it's not around every corner, so I'm happy when I can find a good book, that's all.
The fact is, I can't stand boredom.
And this book for me is The Empire of Boredom.
The writing? Boring. The characters? Boring. The plot? Boring.
I couldn't find even a little connection with the characters. I couldn't find even one single reason to go on with my reading.
Maybe it's not the book, it's me.
Maybe I'll try again in the future.
Maybe.
I tried. I tried hard, I swear.
I love the PsyCop series, and I'm not someone who's afraid of a 300 and more pages book.
I mean, at thirteen I read The Buddenbrook by Thomas Mann, and I loved it.
Years later, I devoured Anna Karenina and War and peace by Tolstoj.
So, I'm not someone that's in search of an easy and fast read.
But I know that a masterpiece it's not around every corner, so I'm happy when I can find a good book, that's all.
The fact is, I can't stand boredom.
And this book for me is The Empire of Boredom.
The writing? Boring. The characters? Boring. The plot? Boring.
I couldn't find even a little connection with the characters. I couldn't find even one single reason to go on with my reading.
Maybe it's not the book, it's me.
Maybe I'll try again in the future.
Maybe.
April 15, 2012
There are books you race through, desperate to find out what's going to happen in the end. And then there are books you find yourself reading more and more slowly, because you never want them to end.
This was definitely one of the latter kind. Classic JCP.
This was definitely one of the latter kind. Classic JCP.
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