What do you think?
Rate this book
The Cirque
A good girl trying to find herself.
A troubled boy running from his past.
The seductive allure of the cirque.
One summer that will change them both forever …
Eighteen-year-old ballerina Ariel is determined to experience life outside the dance studio. She auditions for the cirque on a whim, and though ballet training didn’t prepare her for dodging knives, she refuses to flinch and wins the spot of target girl alongside Gabriel, the mysterious knife-thrower. There’s something unmistakably dangerous yet tempting about Gabriel’s crystal blue eyes and tattoos. She’s determined to solve the mystery of his past after learning he’s on the run from the law. Especially since the distraction is just what she needs to avoid admitting to her parents she was dismissed from her ballet contract.
The more she learns about Gabriel, the scars on his body, the foster homes he grew up in, and his fascination with knives, she knows she should run the other way, but that boy’s like crack, oh so bad for you, yet addicting as hell. When he’s arrested and forced to deal with his past, she has to choose between putting her own life back together and dealing with her parents, or taking a chance on Gabriel, as no one else has.
The Cirque is a contemporary new adult romance.
A troubled boy running from his past.
The seductive allure of the cirque.
One summer that will change them both forever …
Eighteen-year-old ballerina Ariel is determined to experience life outside the dance studio. She auditions for the cirque on a whim, and though ballet training didn’t prepare her for dodging knives, she refuses to flinch and wins the spot of target girl alongside Gabriel, the mysterious knife-thrower. There’s something unmistakably dangerous yet tempting about Gabriel’s crystal blue eyes and tattoos. She’s determined to solve the mystery of his past after learning he’s on the run from the law. Especially since the distraction is just what she needs to avoid admitting to her parents she was dismissed from her ballet contract.
The more she learns about Gabriel, the scars on his body, the foster homes he grew up in, and his fascination with knives, she knows she should run the other way, but that boy’s like crack, oh so bad for you, yet addicting as hell. When he’s arrested and forced to deal with his past, she has to choose between putting her own life back together and dealing with her parents, or taking a chance on Gabriel, as no one else has.
The Cirque is a contemporary new adult romance.
265 pages, Paperback
First published February 22, 2013
2 people are currently reading
1462 people want to read
About the author
Ryann Kerekes
3 books128 followersRyann Kerekes writes young adult novels with a strong dose of romance. She lives in Minnesota with a super cute husband and two puppies, one of which may be part monkey. When not writing, she enjoys reading, hiking, laughing and day dreaming about kissing scenes.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
April 2, 2013
A ballerina runs away with the circus.
Yes. You read that right. A ballerina runs away with the circus. There she meets up with tall-dark-and-emotionally-stunted Gabriel. Gabriel is a knife-tossing, tattooed, ripped hunk o' manly man that our little bunhead just can't seem to stop thinking about.
Gabriel, of course, has skeletons in his closet. How else do you think he got so emotastic? It certainly wasn't while eating oatmeal cream pies and watching TV in his moderately upscale suburban home while his parents were at the office. No. No one who comes from a home like that ever has problems. It's the orphans, the strays, who have all the issues and make young girls get all swoony and moist in their no-no parts.
Angel and Devil. It's played up a lot in the book (even in their circus act, for crying out loud!), and I got pretty tired of it, pretty quick. The ballerina is, of course, an idiot. Not because she's a ballerina, but because she was written by a woman who is one among far too many authors who seem to believe all female characters should lack any form of intelligence. Sometimes, when I want to be scared, I sit and wonder if these authors actually believe their female characters are smart...
Anyway, you know what happens in this book. You do. If you've ever read any kind of over-dramatized YA fantasy fiction, you know. It's the same formula every time. Every. Damn. Time. The sexual content doesn't even deviate from the accepted formula; longing, longing, longing, disgust, more longing, sexual tension ratcheted, a third wheel gets in the way, girl acts like a lobotomy patient trying to figure out why main male character has a problem with third wheel cock-blocker (DUR), a reconnection after the third-wheel is dealt with, first kiss is like a fucking volcanic eruption in someone's pants (may not even be the characters' pants, I can't even think straight anymore), makeoutmakeoutmakeoutmakeout OH, WE CAN'T HAVE SEX, THINGS ARE MOVING MUCH TOO QUICKLY.
It's the exact opposite of what sometimes happens in adult romances. You know those stories where the two end up in bed together in like, the third chapter? And you're sitting there like, "They just said hi, why are they bumping uglies already?!" The payoff is too soon. Premature erotication, as it were. <--- I Should probably trademark that, huh?
Where was I? Oh, right, in those books the load is blown far too soon, but in books like this one, the load-blowing comes long after you've stopped caring whether or not there's even a load at all.
I just....you know, I'm so tired of reading about the tortured bad boys. I think that's why I generally enjoy stories where the dork gets the girl. It's refreshing to read about people finding happiness when those people aren't the types I'd want to roll my eyes at and slap around for a solid three hours.
Bah. I have problems with this book. Obviously, right? If this book were my husband, we'd be in court right now, fighting out who gets the house and where the kids are going to go to school. That being said, I've had worse. So I'll be gracious and give it two stars.
Yes. You read that right. A ballerina runs away with the circus. There she meets up with tall-dark-and-emotionally-stunted Gabriel. Gabriel is a knife-tossing, tattooed, ripped hunk o' manly man that our little bunhead just can't seem to stop thinking about.
Gabriel, of course, has skeletons in his closet. How else do you think he got so emotastic? It certainly wasn't while eating oatmeal cream pies and watching TV in his moderately upscale suburban home while his parents were at the office. No. No one who comes from a home like that ever has problems. It's the orphans, the strays, who have all the issues and make young girls get all swoony and moist in their no-no parts.
Angel and Devil. It's played up a lot in the book (even in their circus act, for crying out loud!), and I got pretty tired of it, pretty quick. The ballerina is, of course, an idiot. Not because she's a ballerina, but because she was written by a woman who is one among far too many authors who seem to believe all female characters should lack any form of intelligence. Sometimes, when I want to be scared, I sit and wonder if these authors actually believe their female characters are smart...
Anyway, you know what happens in this book. You do. If you've ever read any kind of over-dramatized YA fantasy fiction, you know. It's the same formula every time. Every. Damn. Time. The sexual content doesn't even deviate from the accepted formula; longing, longing, longing, disgust, more longing, sexual tension ratcheted, a third wheel gets in the way, girl acts like a lobotomy patient trying to figure out why main male character has a problem with third wheel cock-blocker (DUR), a reconnection after the third-wheel is dealt with, first kiss is like a fucking volcanic eruption in someone's pants (may not even be the characters' pants, I can't even think straight anymore), makeoutmakeoutmakeoutmakeout OH, WE CAN'T HAVE SEX, THINGS ARE MOVING MUCH TOO QUICKLY.
It's the exact opposite of what sometimes happens in adult romances. You know those stories where the two end up in bed together in like, the third chapter? And you're sitting there like, "They just said hi, why are they bumping uglies already?!" The payoff is too soon. Premature erotication, as it were. <--- I Should probably trademark that, huh?
Where was I? Oh, right, in those books the load is blown far too soon, but in books like this one, the load-blowing comes long after you've stopped caring whether or not there's even a load at all.
I just....you know, I'm so tired of reading about the tortured bad boys. I think that's why I generally enjoy stories where the dork gets the girl. It's refreshing to read about people finding happiness when those people aren't the types I'd want to roll my eyes at and slap around for a solid three hours.
Bah. I have problems with this book. Obviously, right? If this book were my husband, we'd be in court right now, fighting out who gets the house and where the kids are going to go to school. That being said, I've had worse. So I'll be gracious and give it two stars.
December 3, 2016
4 STARS for this interesting, colourful and passionate story!
My Ariel and Gabriel:
Dismissed from ballet school, our heroine feels empty and lost in her life. She lost a passion for ballet, but it was her whole life. Her only life. But than an opportunity arises - auditions at cirque-style show. Surprisingly, she does not get a role she was hoping for. Instead of a dancer she becomes a target girl and meets mesmerizing but intimidating knife thrower, Gabriel. And that is the moment when this story kick-starts...
At the beginning, Gabriel is not very friendly kind of guy. Hardly talking to Ariel which makes their cooperation awkward and stressfull for her. But Ariel cannot help herself but to be attracted to him and his piercing gaze. To get his attention, Ariel starts playing games with Gabriel. But what Ariel does not know is that Gabriel is hiding a very dangerous secret. Will their be able to form any kind of friendship or will there be a chance for something more between them?
The Cirque is story about young unexperienced girl trying to do something new and different with her life during one summer but finding so much more - true hapiness and aim in her life. The Cirque is story about facing your fears and being able to stand up for yourself. I loved it!
The cirque made perfect and interesting setting for this book. Everything was passionate, alive and colourful. It changed and animated heroine's boring life as well as my reading experience and I enjoyed this story immensely. Highly recommended for all YA fans who love sweet but unique romance stories.
* ARC provided by author as an exchange for honest review *
MORE REVIEWS ON MY BLOG
My Ariel and Gabriel:
Dismissed from ballet school, our heroine feels empty and lost in her life. She lost a passion for ballet, but it was her whole life. Her only life. But than an opportunity arises - auditions at cirque-style show. Surprisingly, she does not get a role she was hoping for. Instead of a dancer she becomes a target girl and meets mesmerizing but intimidating knife thrower, Gabriel. And that is the moment when this story kick-starts...
At the beginning, Gabriel is not very friendly kind of guy. Hardly talking to Ariel which makes their cooperation awkward and stressfull for her. But Ariel cannot help herself but to be attracted to him and his piercing gaze. To get his attention, Ariel starts playing games with Gabriel. But what Ariel does not know is that Gabriel is hiding a very dangerous secret. Will their be able to form any kind of friendship or will there be a chance for something more between them?
The Cirque is story about young unexperienced girl trying to do something new and different with her life during one summer but finding so much more - true hapiness and aim in her life. The Cirque is story about facing your fears and being able to stand up for yourself. I loved it!
The cirque made perfect and interesting setting for this book. Everything was passionate, alive and colourful. It changed and animated heroine's boring life as well as my reading experience and I enjoyed this story immensely. Highly recommended for all YA fans who love sweet but unique romance stories.
* ARC provided by author as an exchange for honest review *
MORE REVIEWS ON MY BLOG
February 17, 2013
Thank you so much Ryann Kerekes for giving me the opportunity to read and review The Cirque!
The Cirque is a unique coming of age tale about Ariel Bastian. Ariel is a ballerina who recently was let go from her position in her ballet company due to her lack of passion. She is a bit relived to be let go, but instantly realizes she needs to do something, so she auditions for the circus. Well, why not!
A dancing position isn’t offered to Ariel but the target girl position is. What is a target girl? Oh sorry, it’s the beautiful girl that the knife thrower propels his knives at. Yes it’s a pretty intense position but even more intense is the knife thrower himself, Gabriel Trent.
Gabriel Trent is a man of few words. He is artistic, handsome and mysterious. Gabriel is protective of Ariel but also is a very introverted personality that sends a lot of mixed signals her way.
While performing with Gabriel and making friends with her fellow performers, Ariel realizes that everybody has “a story” at the cirque.
Gabriel and Ari’s relationship progresses slowly from friendship to love.
Will Ariel come clean with her parents about the circus?
Will Gabriel have to pay for his past?
Can these two have a future outside of the big tent?
The Cirque was a wellwritten young adult novel which made for a good read!
*The circus plays a terrific part of the story and it captures the reader's attention with its flare and mystic.
The Cirque is a unique coming of age tale about Ariel Bastian. Ariel is a ballerina who recently was let go from her position in her ballet company due to her lack of passion. She is a bit relived to be let go, but instantly realizes she needs to do something, so she auditions for the circus. Well, why not!
A dancing position isn’t offered to Ariel but the target girl position is. What is a target girl? Oh sorry, it’s the beautiful girl that the knife thrower propels his knives at. Yes it’s a pretty intense position but even more intense is the knife thrower himself, Gabriel Trent.
Gabriel Trent is a man of few words. He is artistic, handsome and mysterious. Gabriel is protective of Ariel but also is a very introverted personality that sends a lot of mixed signals her way.
While performing with Gabriel and making friends with her fellow performers, Ariel realizes that everybody has “a story” at the cirque.
Gabriel and Ari’s relationship progresses slowly from friendship to love.
Will Ariel come clean with her parents about the circus?
Will Gabriel have to pay for his past?
Can these two have a future outside of the big tent?
The Cirque was a wellwritten young adult novel which made for a good read!
*The circus plays a terrific part of the story and it captures the reader's attention with its flare and mystic.
February 26, 2013
3.5 knife throwing stars!
Ariel joins the circus after she is dismissed from the ballet troop, she is selected to be the target girl for the knife-thrower, Gabriel.
Gabriel keeps his distance from Ari but is always watching out for her. Ari being as inexperienced as she is, falls for the seductive Dmitri but he only has one thing on his mind.
One fated night, Gabriel saves Ari from Dmitri’s clutches and so begins the slow sweet build of the relationship between Ariel and Gabriel.
Ari goes to Gabriel’s trailer to return his shirt and she discovers more about this dark mysterious man:
“I ran my fingers over the books on his desk. He had a lot of classics. I saw Moby Dick, and Pride and Prejudice. Classical music played in the background, breaking our silence and giving everything a sense of calm. After my eyes adjusted to the dimly lit trailer I noticed he’d been painting.”
Can he get any better? Oh yeah he can---he has a dog…
“This is Gertie. She’s a mixed breed. Probably part terrier, part monkey.”
But Gabriel stays guarded, he has secrets and Ari wants to find out what they are. Of course she has some of her own.
Life in the circus continues as the group travels from city to city performing. A couple of new performers hire on and they make for some additional interesting characters and storyline.
Just as Ari feels like she is able to break down some of Gabriel’s walls, he shuts her down and they both have to face up to things from their past that cannot be avoided any longer.
Ari – I’m sorry for everything. I will never forget you. Gabriel
This story was not over-the-top angsty or ridiculous with any WTH moments that so many books in this genre have. I do like me some crazy angst here and there, but it was nice to have a lovely tale of two young people coming to terms with situations in their lives separately and then deciding if they are ready to be together or not.
* I must disclose the fact that I solicited the author for an arc and I did not receive one. No sweat, I spent the $3 and I am glad I did. I have read most of the books by Kendall Ryan and I am pretty sure I will pick up another book by Ryann Kerekes as well…. Nice job!
Oh... don't try this at home on your kids, folks!
Ariel joins the circus after she is dismissed from the ballet troop, she is selected to be the target girl for the knife-thrower, Gabriel.
“He was tall with dark disheveled hair and was reading a book so well read it was missing the cover.”
“He set the book down and picked up half a dozen knives lying beside him. When he met my gaze, sky-blue eyes pierced mine.”
Gabriel keeps his distance from Ari but is always watching out for her. Ari being as inexperienced as she is, falls for the seductive Dmitri but he only has one thing on his mind.
One fated night, Gabriel saves Ari from Dmitri’s clutches and so begins the slow sweet build of the relationship between Ariel and Gabriel.
Ari goes to Gabriel’s trailer to return his shirt and she discovers more about this dark mysterious man:
“I ran my fingers over the books on his desk. He had a lot of classics. I saw Moby Dick, and Pride and Prejudice. Classical music played in the background, breaking our silence and giving everything a sense of calm. After my eyes adjusted to the dimly lit trailer I noticed he’d been painting.”
Can he get any better? Oh yeah he can---he has a dog…
“This is Gertie. She’s a mixed breed. Probably part terrier, part monkey.”
But Gabriel stays guarded, he has secrets and Ari wants to find out what they are. Of course she has some of her own.
Life in the circus continues as the group travels from city to city performing. A couple of new performers hire on and they make for some additional interesting characters and storyline.
Just as Ari feels like she is able to break down some of Gabriel’s walls, he shuts her down and they both have to face up to things from their past that cannot be avoided any longer.
Ari – I’m sorry for everything. I will never forget you. Gabriel
This story was not over-the-top angsty or ridiculous with any WTH moments that so many books in this genre have. I do like me some crazy angst here and there, but it was nice to have a lovely tale of two young people coming to terms with situations in their lives separately and then deciding if they are ready to be together or not.
* I must disclose the fact that I solicited the author for an arc and I did not receive one. No sweat, I spent the $3 and I am glad I did. I have read most of the books by Kendall Ryan and I am pretty sure I will pick up another book by Ryann Kerekes as well…. Nice job!
Oh... don't try this at home on your kids, folks!
July 5, 2016
WARRNING! Some spoilers.
I've had this on my Kindle for ages. I first picked it up just after I finished Defect by the same author because I loved that book. Bu for one reason or another I kept delaying actually starting The Cirque until I completely forgot about it. And if it wasn't for the MacHalo TBR Challenge I would have probably never read it.
The book itself is a typical young/new adult romance and it follows some well established tropes. Like the innocent inexperienced girl and the dark tall brooding man with a troubled past. Ariel a ballerina who just got cut from her ballet company and doesn't know a thing about life or anything other than ballet. So why not audition to join a travelling circus. It doesn't really make sense but I decided to roll with it. She gets the job of being the target girl for Gabriel. Because she's pretty and looks like the perfect victim. Personally I don't get how someone trowing knifes at you is a turn on but oh well. Whatever floats your boat. Gabriel proves to be a really nice guy on the inside despite his past and constantly saves her from her own stupidity and poor decisions. Though I can't blame her completely because after living such a sheltered life she doesn't know how to protect herself from things most girls learn to be on the look out from a very young age. The attempted was handled pretty badly in my opinion. It was glossed over and used as a plot device. The emotional impact on Ariel was non-existent which doesn't make any sense whatsoever.
I liked the resolution and that in the end Ariel's parents proved to be more accepting than she originally thought. And as a whole the book was a pleasurable read despite some serious flaws. The writing had a way of capturing my attention and keeping it on the story and the characters. A great way to relax if you can ignore the bad handling of strong themes.
I've had this on my Kindle for ages. I first picked it up just after I finished Defect by the same author because I loved that book. Bu for one reason or another I kept delaying actually starting The Cirque until I completely forgot about it. And if it wasn't for the MacHalo TBR Challenge I would have probably never read it.
The book itself is a typical young/new adult romance and it follows some well established tropes. Like the innocent inexperienced girl and the dark tall brooding man with a troubled past. Ariel a ballerina who just got cut from her ballet company and doesn't know a thing about life or anything other than ballet. So why not audition to join a travelling circus. It doesn't really make sense but I decided to roll with it. She gets the job of being the target girl for Gabriel. Because she's pretty and looks like the perfect victim. Personally I don't get how someone trowing knifes at you is a turn on but oh well. Whatever floats your boat. Gabriel proves to be a really nice guy on the inside despite his past and constantly saves her from her own stupidity and poor decisions. Though I can't blame her completely because after living such a sheltered life she doesn't know how to protect herself from things most girls learn to be on the look out from a very young age. The attempted was handled pretty badly in my opinion. It was glossed over and used as a plot device. The emotional impact on Ariel was non-existent which doesn't make any sense whatsoever.
I liked the resolution and that in the end Ariel's parents proved to be more accepting than she originally thought. And as a whole the book was a pleasurable read despite some serious flaws. The writing had a way of capturing my attention and keeping it on the story and the characters. A great way to relax if you can ignore the bad handling of strong themes.
March 13, 2013
"I guess I'd like to think that's out there. Love, passion like that. Happy endings."
I really enjoyed The Cirque. I started reading and literally couldn't put it back down until I was finished; I was completely hooked from the very first page. The author's writing style really worked for me and drew me right in. It was perfectly descriptive in all the right places and I could easily see the book playing out like a movie in my head. I could picture the characters, the trailers, the big top, the performances, even Gertie!
Ari is a classically trained ballerina with all the talent and no heart. She doesn't love it, and when she gets fired from the ballet company she has to find something else to occupy her time and give her something to do while she figures out what to tell her parents. She auditions for the local cirque show on a whim and winds up the target girl for the brooding, sexy and mysterious Gabriel; a knife thrower on the run from the law.
I really loved the MCs in this book. I liked that Ari was strong and independent. As scared as she may have been to not have ballet anymore and keep it from her parents, she went ahead and put herself out there and did what she could to try and find herself. I liked seeing her grow into herself and open up a bit. And Gabriel...Ryann Kerekes just wrote him perfectly. I was immediately drawn to him. He was mysterious and sexy and I instantly wanted more. And the sexual tension between Gabriel and Ari was ahhhhmazing! I loved all of their interactions and how they reacted to each other. As different as they were, they were such a good fit and it was so clear how they felt about each other even when they were totally awkward about it. I loved it. I really enjoyed the secondary characters in this book as well. I felt they all had depth and I loved how they related to each other and how we got a bit of each of their back stories. I adored Tanner; obvi I'm a sucker for an amazing gay BFF!
The Cirque was just a great read. The writing was great, I loved the characters, I loved the storyline and it was just really entertaining. My only complaint would be that I found myself just wanting a bit more. The Cirque is classified as NA but in my opinion it felt much more like a YA read to me. There was such amazing sexual tension between Gabriel and Ari and I found myself wishing for a bit more depth in their relationship... more feelings, more emotions, definitely more steam! It was a quick read and I wouldn't have minded if it were a bit longer to get some more emotional connection to Gabriel's backstory and delve further into their relationship. That being said, I loved this book and would definitely recommend!
ARC provided by Author for honest review
I really enjoyed The Cirque. I started reading and literally couldn't put it back down until I was finished; I was completely hooked from the very first page. The author's writing style really worked for me and drew me right in. It was perfectly descriptive in all the right places and I could easily see the book playing out like a movie in my head. I could picture the characters, the trailers, the big top, the performances, even Gertie!
Ari is a classically trained ballerina with all the talent and no heart. She doesn't love it, and when she gets fired from the ballet company she has to find something else to occupy her time and give her something to do while she figures out what to tell her parents. She auditions for the local cirque show on a whim and winds up the target girl for the brooding, sexy and mysterious Gabriel; a knife thrower on the run from the law.
I really loved the MCs in this book. I liked that Ari was strong and independent. As scared as she may have been to not have ballet anymore and keep it from her parents, she went ahead and put herself out there and did what she could to try and find herself. I liked seeing her grow into herself and open up a bit. And Gabriel...Ryann Kerekes just wrote him perfectly. I was immediately drawn to him. He was mysterious and sexy and I instantly wanted more. And the sexual tension between Gabriel and Ari was ahhhhmazing! I loved all of their interactions and how they reacted to each other. As different as they were, they were such a good fit and it was so clear how they felt about each other even when they were totally awkward about it. I loved it. I really enjoyed the secondary characters in this book as well. I felt they all had depth and I loved how they related to each other and how we got a bit of each of their back stories. I adored Tanner; obvi I'm a sucker for an amazing gay BFF!
The Cirque was just a great read. The writing was great, I loved the characters, I loved the storyline and it was just really entertaining. My only complaint would be that I found myself just wanting a bit more. The Cirque is classified as NA but in my opinion it felt much more like a YA read to me. There was such amazing sexual tension between Gabriel and Ari and I found myself wishing for a bit more depth in their relationship... more feelings, more emotions, definitely more steam! It was a quick read and I wouldn't have minded if it were a bit longer to get some more emotional connection to Gabriel's backstory and delve further into their relationship. That being said, I loved this book and would definitely recommend!
ARC provided by Author for honest review
April 3, 2013
This story felt a little different as it was set in a traveling cirque.
Gabriel was the quiet strange outcast that kept to himself until Ari an ex ballet dancer joined the cirque. Throughout the story you watch them slowly fall in love with each other but due to his past Gabriel is reluctant to get involved with Ari.
I liked the supporting characters especially Tanner and his game of Never have I ever. :)
Gabriel was the quiet strange outcast that kept to himself until Ari an ex ballet dancer joined the cirque. Throughout the story you watch them slowly fall in love with each other but due to his past Gabriel is reluctant to get involved with Ari.
I liked the supporting characters especially Tanner and his game of Never have I ever. :)
February 5, 2013
I love this story! Ryann is one awesome writer. If you like H-O-T guys, you should check this out.
Want to read
February 14, 2013 Another gorgeous cover!!
March 11, 2013
I had issues with this book. Big ones.
I didn't like just how unbelievably childish Ari was. The fact that she acknowledges that she's playing one guy off to make another jealous is just too much.
I found it difficult to believe she was THAT naive, considering she lived alone in an apartment that her parents paid for.
I found the early chapters 'glossed' over any feeling and issues she had being tossed out of the ballet, and her choice to join the circus show was so random, never really being addressed.
I was hoping for more. However, I did finish it. That's why it's a 2 star, not 1.
Disappointed.
I didn't like just how unbelievably childish Ari was. The fact that she acknowledges that she's playing one guy off to make another jealous is just too much.
I found it difficult to believe she was THAT naive, considering she lived alone in an apartment that her parents paid for.
I found the early chapters 'glossed' over any feeling and issues she had being tossed out of the ballet, and her choice to join the circus show was so random, never really being addressed.
I was hoping for more. However, I did finish it. That's why it's a 2 star, not 1.
Disappointed.
February 25, 2013
I cannot express my gratitude to Ryann because she saved me from a horrible reading slump. Right now there is slim pickings in the book world. Anyhow, besides that The Cirque was amazing and heart-breaking and refreshing and... you get the point. The only complaint I have is that it ended way too quickly, I wasn't ready for The End when I got there. I will definitely be stalking this fabulous author from here on out:) Happy reading.
March 2, 2013
I hate to say that I did not enjoy this book. In my opinion it was boring. Anticlimactic is the word I would use to describe The Cirque. There wasn't any heat, not enough drama, no real fighting, no mystery, no twist, nada. This book did not move me at all. I had to push myself through it. I didn't experience any emotions at all except boredom. Not a great read, for me. 
March 1, 2013
FOR OTHER REVIEWS LIKE THIS ONE, CHECK OUT MY BLOG ~ BLAME IT ON THE RAIN
I LOVED THIS BOOK!!! With great characters, and original plot/setting, I struggled to put this book down as I just couldn’t get enough!
A cross between Twilight (without the vampires) and Water for Elephants…or maybe I just have Robert Pattinson on my mind…:-s Anyway, I’ve always had a bit of a fascination with travelling shows/circuses, and love reading about them, add in the angst of this love story and I was all over it!
Having done everything her parents wanted her to in life, when Ariel is kicked out of the ballet and is too afraid to tell them, she sees it as a chance to break free and do her own thing. Deciding to join a travelling show, she is a bit of a duck out of water, not really feeling like she fits in, and not really enjoying her role as a target girl when she would much rather be doing her own act.
When she meets Gabriel she is immediately drawn to him…and also a little scared of him. With his brooding personality, and seeming lack of interest in everything, he seems completely closed off from her. Despite this, Ari is determined to get to know him better.
Ahhh Gabriel *sigh* He was completely unlike the typical hero, and that’s what made me love him. He was a surprisingly eclectic character ~ reading romance novels, painting, and listening to classical music, he was unlike any literary bad boy I had ever read about before. When he first meets Ari, Gabriel seems instantly drawn to her (in his own way), always doing his best to protect her, and seeming to take an interest in her, rather than the other people around him.
Gabriel’s past played a huge role in this book as it seemed to be the main reason that him and Ari couldn’t be together. He was so worried that she was just going to leave him, just like everyone else in his life, that he found it extremely hard to let her in and be with her properly, although he wanted to…
…And there lies the angst.
The relationship between the pair is intense to say the least. There desire for each other is so slow burning and controlled that the angst is completely built up before anything actually happens between them which made me completely desperate for it! Their relationship isn’t the typical kind as they go lengths of time not talking to each other, as they try to figure each other out, however, they can never stay away for long…
The supporting characters are what really made this book for me. Each different from the other, Shane, Hope, and Sasha and Tanner, specifically really made this book great! Friends of Ari’s from the start, they are always there for her, and they made me wish that I had friends like that!
Each book I read by this author I like even more than the last, and this one is no exception! As I was reading I could totally imagine this being turned in to a film, as I could imagine every character so clearly, and each scene being played out in my head (fingers crossed). I cannot rave enough about this book and would highly recommend it!
I LOVED THIS BOOK!!! With great characters, and original plot/setting, I struggled to put this book down as I just couldn’t get enough!
A cross between Twilight (without the vampires) and Water for Elephants…or maybe I just have Robert Pattinson on my mind…:-s Anyway, I’ve always had a bit of a fascination with travelling shows/circuses, and love reading about them, add in the angst of this love story and I was all over it!
Having done everything her parents wanted her to in life, when Ariel is kicked out of the ballet and is too afraid to tell them, she sees it as a chance to break free and do her own thing. Deciding to join a travelling show, she is a bit of a duck out of water, not really feeling like she fits in, and not really enjoying her role as a target girl when she would much rather be doing her own act.
When she meets Gabriel she is immediately drawn to him…and also a little scared of him. With his brooding personality, and seeming lack of interest in everything, he seems completely closed off from her. Despite this, Ari is determined to get to know him better.
Ahhh Gabriel *sigh* He was completely unlike the typical hero, and that’s what made me love him. He was a surprisingly eclectic character ~ reading romance novels, painting, and listening to classical music, he was unlike any literary bad boy I had ever read about before. When he first meets Ari, Gabriel seems instantly drawn to her (in his own way), always doing his best to protect her, and seeming to take an interest in her, rather than the other people around him.
Gabriel’s past played a huge role in this book as it seemed to be the main reason that him and Ari couldn’t be together. He was so worried that she was just going to leave him, just like everyone else in his life, that he found it extremely hard to let her in and be with her properly, although he wanted to…
…And there lies the angst.
The relationship between the pair is intense to say the least. There desire for each other is so slow burning and controlled that the angst is completely built up before anything actually happens between them which made me completely desperate for it! Their relationship isn’t the typical kind as they go lengths of time not talking to each other, as they try to figure each other out, however, they can never stay away for long…
The supporting characters are what really made this book for me. Each different from the other, Shane, Hope, and Sasha and Tanner, specifically really made this book great! Friends of Ari’s from the start, they are always there for her, and they made me wish that I had friends like that!
Each book I read by this author I like even more than the last, and this one is no exception! As I was reading I could totally imagine this being turned in to a film, as I could imagine every character so clearly, and each scene being played out in my head (fingers crossed). I cannot rave enough about this book and would highly recommend it!
February 26, 2013
"My plan had been to be carefree and to experience--to live a little--and here I was captivated and obsessed by an intense, possibly disturbed guy."
I adored this story of Gabriel and Ari. After all the drama filled books I have been reading as of late, Cirque was that perfect mix of a light quick read filled with just the right amount of drama and love. I quickly became attached to the Gabriel, Ari, Tanner and Sasha. Cirque was a heartfelt story about seeing below the surface and finding love with some one that appears to be totally wrong for you. Ari learned a hard lesson on how appearances can be deceiving. It is a story about growth, friendship, love and finding one's self.
While I loved all the characters, Gabriel held my attention and stole my heart the most. I am a total sucker for a lost tatted damaged "bad boy." I was captivated by him and his past. He had multiple personalities. In public, he acts as such a jerk, very secretive, likes to be left to his own devices, and ignores Ari. Gabriel shows her such indifference with his hot and cold attitude that she begins to act out in order to get his attention. However, beneath all that defensiveness laid a heart of gold. He honestly had no clue how to act around her, and she did not help with all her game playing to make him jealous. Behind closed doors he begins to open up to her, showing more of his true self, while keeping her close within his sights. Gabriel had such a protective nature to him, he kept close but out of sight while he allowed Ari the room to explore, make mistakes and blossom.
Ari was also lost, just in a different way. I loved her, and I loved watching her try and navigate her journey of self-discovery. One of the things I adored about her is we get to see and feel her age. She acts out in typical teen girl fashion on many occasions. I thought it fit the story perfectly, especially as we watched her grow and mature.
I really adored the growth of the characters and their interactions together. I found them to be well developed. I loved, loved, loved the end! I could not stop smiling as I watched both Ari and Gabriel grow within their friendship, with themselves, and with their love for each other. I hope that we get too see more from these two. Congrats, Ryann on a fantastic book and debut!
Thank you to Ryann for the opportunity and the ARC of Cirque for an honest review.
I adored this story of Gabriel and Ari. After all the drama filled books I have been reading as of late, Cirque was that perfect mix of a light quick read filled with just the right amount of drama and love. I quickly became attached to the Gabriel, Ari, Tanner and Sasha. Cirque was a heartfelt story about seeing below the surface and finding love with some one that appears to be totally wrong for you. Ari learned a hard lesson on how appearances can be deceiving. It is a story about growth, friendship, love and finding one's self.
While I loved all the characters, Gabriel held my attention and stole my heart the most. I am a total sucker for a lost tatted damaged "bad boy." I was captivated by him and his past. He had multiple personalities. In public, he acts as such a jerk, very secretive, likes to be left to his own devices, and ignores Ari. Gabriel shows her such indifference with his hot and cold attitude that she begins to act out in order to get his attention. However, beneath all that defensiveness laid a heart of gold. He honestly had no clue how to act around her, and she did not help with all her game playing to make him jealous. Behind closed doors he begins to open up to her, showing more of his true self, while keeping her close within his sights. Gabriel had such a protective nature to him, he kept close but out of sight while he allowed Ari the room to explore, make mistakes and blossom.
Ari was also lost, just in a different way. I loved her, and I loved watching her try and navigate her journey of self-discovery. One of the things I adored about her is we get to see and feel her age. She acts out in typical teen girl fashion on many occasions. I thought it fit the story perfectly, especially as we watched her grow and mature.
I really adored the growth of the characters and their interactions together. I found them to be well developed. I loved, loved, loved the end! I could not stop smiling as I watched both Ari and Gabriel grow within their friendship, with themselves, and with their love for each other. I hope that we get too see more from these two. Congrats, Ryann on a fantastic book and debut!
Thank you to Ryann for the opportunity and the ARC of Cirque for an honest review.
March 1, 2013
100 Stars for this amazing new Novel!!!!
First off this is a very different book than others. This is a story between a girl who is lost, with no direction trying to find her purpose in life. Who stops doing something that came so naturally to her, but just wasn't what she wanted to be. He was the Bad Boy running from the law, had a hidden past, but wasn't afraid to be what he was. So she joined the Cirque looking for something to do till her parents came back from out of town. Prim and Proper parents she had. Who she thought was going to be very unforgiving when she got fired from her job in the Ballet.
She meets Gabriel, the knife throwing, dark, distant guy. Holy Swoon! Tattooed, scared with piercing sky-blue eyes, and dishelved hair you would just want to run your hands through! He was quiet and untrusting of those that would walk in and out of his life. Since all he knew was unwant and people always left him. He didn't want to get too close.
Then boy meets girl, or girl meets boy and you can actually feel the electricity in the air while you are reading this. I got goose-bumps, and this spark I felt all the way down to my toes! He is very standoffish with her and she desperately tries to get his attention. She never knew she had it all along. She makes mistakes, but who doesn’t when you are finding your life meaning.
That is about as far as I will go with this description. I will not give any more away. This book will break you down then build you back up better than where the pieces were before! I swooned, I loved, I cried, I also almost threw my Kindle against the wall when things were not going as smoothly as I wanted for them. But that is the best part. You have to have the fall out before you get the end result. This end result was PERFECT! My heart is whole again filled with love that is now overflowing! Definitely recommend this book to others!!!!
First off this is a very different book than others. This is a story between a girl who is lost, with no direction trying to find her purpose in life. Who stops doing something that came so naturally to her, but just wasn't what she wanted to be. He was the Bad Boy running from the law, had a hidden past, but wasn't afraid to be what he was. So she joined the Cirque looking for something to do till her parents came back from out of town. Prim and Proper parents she had. Who she thought was going to be very unforgiving when she got fired from her job in the Ballet.
She meets Gabriel, the knife throwing, dark, distant guy. Holy Swoon! Tattooed, scared with piercing sky-blue eyes, and dishelved hair you would just want to run your hands through! He was quiet and untrusting of those that would walk in and out of his life. Since all he knew was unwant and people always left him. He didn't want to get too close.
Then boy meets girl, or girl meets boy and you can actually feel the electricity in the air while you are reading this. I got goose-bumps, and this spark I felt all the way down to my toes! He is very standoffish with her and she desperately tries to get his attention. She never knew she had it all along. She makes mistakes, but who doesn’t when you are finding your life meaning.
That is about as far as I will go with this description. I will not give any more away. This book will break you down then build you back up better than where the pieces were before! I swooned, I loved, I cried, I also almost threw my Kindle against the wall when things were not going as smoothly as I wanted for them. But that is the best part. You have to have the fall out before you get the end result. This end result was PERFECT! My heart is whole again filled with love that is now overflowing! Definitely recommend this book to others!!!!
February 27, 2013
This book had the potential to be a great book, But it lack the depths of building the characters. There was no great display of emotions in any and all characters. Ariel was an extremely boring character, while Gabriel's character you had no real connection with. The monologue was to straight forward with no emotion behind it, and last but not least was the writing style was that of school aged girl. There was no imagination to the what was written, very monotone, generic writing. I really wished to feel the story and characters, but it was just laching the in-depth I was looking for.
March 4, 2013
Sigh...
I love me some tattooed bad boys and this book did not dissapoint me. Gabriel was broody and mysterious about his past and oh so delectable. Ari was strong and trying to forge a way in a world that was completely different than what she was accustom to. While finding her way she also found her passion again in dance though it wanst the same kind. This was a great read, a little angst some love and a whole lot of finding yourself.
February 24, 2013
Review to come
March 9, 2013
This book. This book was so unique, intriguing, and kept me captive from the moment I started. Ariel and Gabriel are such a great couple. Ryann Kerekes created a truly great story.
Ariel is a dancer. A ballerina. While I wasn't a dancer, I understand the pressure she feels. My niece is a ballerina and I see the stress these girls are under, even at an early age. So, when Ariel decided she needed to leave the ballet, I got it. I understood. Now, joining up with a traveling circus is one way to go big, go different. But, Ariel is seeking more than just a change. I felt like she was searching for herself. When she meets her partner, Gabriel, she experiences feelings she's never felt before. He's mysterious, dangerous, and indifferent. Yet, he has his own story and isn't really all that he seems.
Gabriel is exactly the kind of guy I love to read about. He seems bad, but he's really a great guy. He's sensitive, sexy, and he is a bit mysterious. He's also fiercely protective of those he cares about. He doesn't go after the girl right away. He takes his time. He's guarded. He watches, observes. The end result was a really great love. A truly honest love.
I can say that I haven't read many books about circus life. I was so interested in that part of the story for some reason. While we get to see the behind the scenes of what happens in a circus life, I also enjoyed seeing how they felt while they were performing. It seemed like it could be such a rush. Gabriel is a knife thrower and Ariel is his target. Can you imagine what that would be like??? Scary, yet a bit thrilling. It was interesting to see that Ariel was numb to it. She was able to black out the risk and really trust Gabriel. So symbolic of their relationship and the changes she was making in her life.
Overall, The Cirque was a really great story. It brought up some issues for me personally, but I also loved the characters. Gabriel made my heart pitter patter and Ariel made me feel empathetic. If you're looking for a love story that is a little bit different, check this one out!
Quotes:
~ I was hopeful that tonight I could break some of the perfect self-control he applied to me-and nothing else in his life. Swallow fire? Sure. Play with knives? Why not? Fight a ripped acrobat? Anytime. Make out with me? Let's hold off on that.-pg 145
~He expertly held my jaw and tilted his mouth to meet mine. He drove me mad the way he leaned in and kissed me, then pulled back, moving in at a different angle before kissing me again. I could feel him thinking through his every move. I didn't want him thinking-I only wanted him feeling, like I did.-pg 156
~Everything about this moment felt right, from the way Gabriel made me feel cherished, to the way our bodies fit together, like two halves of a whole.-pg 209
Ariel is a dancer. A ballerina. While I wasn't a dancer, I understand the pressure she feels. My niece is a ballerina and I see the stress these girls are under, even at an early age. So, when Ariel decided she needed to leave the ballet, I got it. I understood. Now, joining up with a traveling circus is one way to go big, go different. But, Ariel is seeking more than just a change. I felt like she was searching for herself. When she meets her partner, Gabriel, she experiences feelings she's never felt before. He's mysterious, dangerous, and indifferent. Yet, he has his own story and isn't really all that he seems.
Gabriel is exactly the kind of guy I love to read about. He seems bad, but he's really a great guy. He's sensitive, sexy, and he is a bit mysterious. He's also fiercely protective of those he cares about. He doesn't go after the girl right away. He takes his time. He's guarded. He watches, observes. The end result was a really great love. A truly honest love.
I can say that I haven't read many books about circus life. I was so interested in that part of the story for some reason. While we get to see the behind the scenes of what happens in a circus life, I also enjoyed seeing how they felt while they were performing. It seemed like it could be such a rush. Gabriel is a knife thrower and Ariel is his target. Can you imagine what that would be like??? Scary, yet a bit thrilling. It was interesting to see that Ariel was numb to it. She was able to black out the risk and really trust Gabriel. So symbolic of their relationship and the changes she was making in her life.
Overall, The Cirque was a really great story. It brought up some issues for me personally, but I also loved the characters. Gabriel made my heart pitter patter and Ariel made me feel empathetic. If you're looking for a love story that is a little bit different, check this one out!
Quotes:
~ I was hopeful that tonight I could break some of the perfect self-control he applied to me-and nothing else in his life. Swallow fire? Sure. Play with knives? Why not? Fight a ripped acrobat? Anytime. Make out with me? Let's hold off on that.-pg 145
~He expertly held my jaw and tilted his mouth to meet mine. He drove me mad the way he leaned in and kissed me, then pulled back, moving in at a different angle before kissing me again. I could feel him thinking through his every move. I didn't want him thinking-I only wanted him feeling, like I did.-pg 156
~Everything about this moment felt right, from the way Gabriel made me feel cherished, to the way our bodies fit together, like two halves of a whole.-pg 209
February 25, 2013
Rating: B+ ... Heat: Warm
Ariel has always been a ballerina. She has no dreams or ambitions outside of the ones her mother thrust on her from a very young age. But all of that is about to change when she's let go because the company director can see that her heart's not in it. As Ariel is leaving her last ballet practice ever, debating how to tell her mom her dream is over, she finds a flier for an audition for a small-time cirque... and decides to run away. With the 'circus'.
Where she meets brooding Gabriel, the knife thrower, and becomes his target girl. Gabriel is a mysterious guy with a past no one at the cirque is willing to talk about. All Ari really knows is that he's an orphan--and he may be on the run from the law for a murder. But something about him draws her in.
Gabriel takes the whole hot and cold thing to new proportions. Or... he just moves at a really slow pace. Takes his time. He's not going to rush into a relationship, let alone Ari's bed. I liked how it was always Gabriel putting on the brakes, even if it frustrated me as much as it did Ari. I could understand his need for caution. Orphans, especially those turned over into the foster system, are going to be wary of new people in their lives. I adored him for all his secrets and his quietly protective nature.
As Ariel and Gabriel travel the country, Ari grows. Finds passion. Finds herself. Makes friends for the first time in her life. Life in a ballet company didn't give her many opportunities to bond with other people her age. I loved seeing her gradually let loose and spread her wings. And make a few mistakes along the way. Mistakes that Gabriel is there to help shield her from. The more he lingers near her, the more of himself he lets her see. He is definitely worth the wait.
Cirque is the story of a ballerina turned target girl and follows her on her journey to becoming, simply, Ariel. Combined with the cirque life, it was a fun journey to be a part of. Full of colorful characters and colorful places. Miz Kerekes had me at a knife thrower and his target girl--and completely won me over with a story that is so much more than just that.
-- A Romantic Book Affairs Review.
Find us on Twitter and Facebook too!
Ariel has always been a ballerina. She has no dreams or ambitions outside of the ones her mother thrust on her from a very young age. But all of that is about to change when she's let go because the company director can see that her heart's not in it. As Ariel is leaving her last ballet practice ever, debating how to tell her mom her dream is over, she finds a flier for an audition for a small-time cirque... and decides to run away. With the 'circus'.
Where she meets brooding Gabriel, the knife thrower, and becomes his target girl. Gabriel is a mysterious guy with a past no one at the cirque is willing to talk about. All Ari really knows is that he's an orphan--and he may be on the run from the law for a murder. But something about him draws her in.
Gabriel takes the whole hot and cold thing to new proportions. Or... he just moves at a really slow pace. Takes his time. He's not going to rush into a relationship, let alone Ari's bed. I liked how it was always Gabriel putting on the brakes, even if it frustrated me as much as it did Ari. I could understand his need for caution. Orphans, especially those turned over into the foster system, are going to be wary of new people in their lives. I adored him for all his secrets and his quietly protective nature.
As Ariel and Gabriel travel the country, Ari grows. Finds passion. Finds herself. Makes friends for the first time in her life. Life in a ballet company didn't give her many opportunities to bond with other people her age. I loved seeing her gradually let loose and spread her wings. And make a few mistakes along the way. Mistakes that Gabriel is there to help shield her from. The more he lingers near her, the more of himself he lets her see. He is definitely worth the wait.
Cirque is the story of a ballerina turned target girl and follows her on her journey to becoming, simply, Ariel. Combined with the cirque life, it was a fun journey to be a part of. Full of colorful characters and colorful places. Miz Kerekes had me at a knife thrower and his target girl--and completely won me over with a story that is so much more than just that.
-- A Romantic Book Affairs Review.
Find us on Twitter and Facebook too!
March 5, 2013
How do you go from something you are born to do, to a completely alternate universe? Knowing your whole life you've been groomed to be the best Ballerina known to man. But your life is slowing unraveling right before your very eyes.....
This was such an endearing and sweet story. You have the beautiful naive Ari, who is so lost in life. She has been kicked down by the person who has taught her everything, her Ballet Teacher. Just kicked to curb, goodbye, tata, we've found someone better. To make matters worse, it is her understudy. It was a hard smack in the face, to the poor Ari. She knew she had to walk away with her head held high, to prove to the gutless people she was better than them. Upon leaving the building Ari was hit with a flyer, stating there were tryouts for a circus being held. Ding. A light bulb went off!
Ari was completely unsure of jumping on the circus bandwagon, but knew it was something to at least attempt. She was instantly awarded a spot on the circus crew. But the thing was, she was going to a Human Target. Not exactly what she had in mind, considering she is an-ex ballerina.
Men, hot men, taunted Ari. Her hormones got the best of her, and she decided she would dip her toes in the bucket of circus men. But little did she know, Dmitri wasn't who she thought he was. He was a nastay, nastay, man. He just wanted to use and abuse our beautiful naive girl. Oh but, Gabriel. He is a fine specimen of a delicious piece of pie. He is mysterious and talented. He shows a sweet side, but only on the chance that Ari reciprocates this attraction and sweetness. They start to share something special, only to get it ripped out from under both of them. Because Gabriel's and Ari's lives were coming back to bite them in the rear....
I really enjoyed everything about this sweet and easy read. The characters all held their own, and brought so much to the circus table. For this being Ryann Kerekes first YA novel, I am in love and blown away. Please please please read this book. You will not be sorry. I give this fun and unique read 4 Stars!!
This was such an endearing and sweet story. You have the beautiful naive Ari, who is so lost in life. She has been kicked down by the person who has taught her everything, her Ballet Teacher. Just kicked to curb, goodbye, tata, we've found someone better. To make matters worse, it is her understudy. It was a hard smack in the face, to the poor Ari. She knew she had to walk away with her head held high, to prove to the gutless people she was better than them. Upon leaving the building Ari was hit with a flyer, stating there were tryouts for a circus being held. Ding. A light bulb went off!
Ari was completely unsure of jumping on the circus bandwagon, but knew it was something to at least attempt. She was instantly awarded a spot on the circus crew. But the thing was, she was going to a Human Target. Not exactly what she had in mind, considering she is an-ex ballerina.
Men, hot men, taunted Ari. Her hormones got the best of her, and she decided she would dip her toes in the bucket of circus men. But little did she know, Dmitri wasn't who she thought he was. He was a nastay, nastay, man. He just wanted to use and abuse our beautiful naive girl. Oh but, Gabriel. He is a fine specimen of a delicious piece of pie. He is mysterious and talented. He shows a sweet side, but only on the chance that Ari reciprocates this attraction and sweetness. They start to share something special, only to get it ripped out from under both of them. Because Gabriel's and Ari's lives were coming back to bite them in the rear....
I really enjoyed everything about this sweet and easy read. The characters all held their own, and brought so much to the circus table. For this being Ryann Kerekes first YA novel, I am in love and blown away. Please please please read this book. You will not be sorry. I give this fun and unique read 4 Stars!!
February 14, 2013
OPENING LINES:
I would not cry.
Nope. No way.
I remained stock-still, knowing if I moved, if I so much as drew a deep breath I would lost it. And I wouldn't give him the satisfaction of watching me break down. I'd do that later, once I was alone.
Ariel captivated me right away. I rooted for her the whole book. Sometimes in YA books you have little snooty-too-gooder female characters OR you have the depressive-shy-girl-that is so beautiful she doesn't know it. . .
This is different.
All Ariel had in life was ballet. . and she's not excited about it anymore. What the hell does she do now?
Join a circus.
Isn't that all what we would do?
Oh. You're shaking your head no. Well that's why you aren't in a book, a-hole!
Anyway, let's scooch on over to bad-boy-mysterious Gabriel!
He's hiding something, but he isn't afraid to speak his mind (at times). He's totally awesome. This book isn't soaked in sex like my usual reads, BUT his knife throwing gave me some orgasms, baby!
God I love that he throws knives! It's such an unexpected talent. I wish he'd throw a knife my way. lmao!
Either way, I enjoyed this novel. And if you read my reviews enough you know that I kept a star due to it not being edgy enough for me. Granted, Gabriel and his past came damn close, but not enough for me to thing dark and edgy, which is just my think.
I'd put this more as a sweet new adult romance that takes you on a journey in the background of the circus.
Oh wait! I forgot about the circus!
THE CIRCUS IS KIND OF ITS OWN CHARACTER.
The performers are bright and lively. The acts are interesting. the day to day after circus life is entertaining and even the reasons why people joined are interesting.
I would not cry.
Nope. No way.
I remained stock-still, knowing if I moved, if I so much as drew a deep breath I would lost it. And I wouldn't give him the satisfaction of watching me break down. I'd do that later, once I was alone.
Ariel captivated me right away. I rooted for her the whole book. Sometimes in YA books you have little snooty-too-gooder female characters OR you have the depressive-shy-girl-that is so beautiful she doesn't know it. . .
This is different.
All Ariel had in life was ballet. . and she's not excited about it anymore. What the hell does she do now?
Join a circus.
Isn't that all what we would do?
Oh. You're shaking your head no. Well that's why you aren't in a book, a-hole!
Anyway, let's scooch on over to bad-boy-mysterious Gabriel!
He's hiding something, but he isn't afraid to speak his mind (at times). He's totally awesome. This book isn't soaked in sex like my usual reads, BUT his knife throwing gave me some orgasms, baby!
God I love that he throws knives! It's such an unexpected talent. I wish he'd throw a knife my way. lmao!
Either way, I enjoyed this novel. And if you read my reviews enough you know that I kept a star due to it not being edgy enough for me. Granted, Gabriel and his past came damn close, but not enough for me to thing dark and edgy, which is just my think.
I'd put this more as a sweet new adult romance that takes you on a journey in the background of the circus.
Oh wait! I forgot about the circus!
THE CIRCUS IS KIND OF ITS OWN CHARACTER.
The performers are bright and lively. The acts are interesting. the day to day after circus life is entertaining and even the reasons why people joined are interesting.
March 18, 2013
Ari has spent her whole life training to be a ballerina and when she's let go and released from her contract she doesn't know what to do. On a whim she joins the circus as the girl who gets the knives thrown at her (I have no idea what she's actually called). The knife thrower is an attractive, brooding, dangerous man named Gabriel. Ari is immediately attracted to him, but Gabriel has a troubled past and may even be wanted by the police. Can the good girl ballerina and the bad
As my description may suggest I have very little to say about this book. Why? Because it's just mind-blowingly generic. You could take Ari and Gabriel's characters and insert them to any YA/NA book with the basic good girl/bad boy story line and it wouldn't make a difference. There was nothing unique or interesting about Ari to make me want to get excited for her and the same goes for Gabriel. Maybe a slightly rooted for Gabriel but that's probably because I wasn't in his head hearing all his annoying thoughts.
The circus never really came to life, the descriptions of the actual circus were few and far between. And the supporting characters were also generic. The smooth Russian acrobat who preys on young girls, the damaged but over it best friend, and the gay guy whose parents don't know he's gay.
The more I think and write about this book the less and less I like it so I'm going to stop now while I'm ahead. Moral of the story: I didn't care of this one, but lots of other people seem to like it. But don't say I didn't warn you.
This review first appeared on my blog.
As my description may suggest I have very little to say about this book. Why? Because it's just mind-blowingly generic. You could take Ari and Gabriel's characters and insert them to any YA/NA book with the basic good girl/bad boy story line and it wouldn't make a difference. There was nothing unique or interesting about Ari to make me want to get excited for her and the same goes for Gabriel. Maybe a slightly rooted for Gabriel but that's probably because I wasn't in his head hearing all his annoying thoughts.
The circus never really came to life, the descriptions of the actual circus were few and far between. And the supporting characters were also generic. The smooth Russian acrobat who preys on young girls, the damaged but over it best friend, and the gay guy whose parents don't know he's gay.
The more I think and write about this book the less and less I like it so I'm going to stop now while I'm ahead. Moral of the story: I didn't care of this one, but lots of other people seem to like it. But don't say I didn't warn you.
This review first appeared on my blog.
April 23, 2013
uuhhh this book is difficult to review. The premise sounded really good and I waited for the price to go down to buy the book. And when that happened I bought and read it right away.
So what went wrong?
Ariel is a 18 year old Virgin ballerina. We have Gabriel the bad boy with a past, knife thrower. The meet in the cirque after Ariel is fired from the ballet.
That sums the whole book about up, because the characters are flat, the story line is not going anywhere. This book did not call any deep emotions in me it was kind off boring.
So what went wrong?
Ariel is a 18 year old Virgin ballerina. We have Gabriel the bad boy with a past, knife thrower. The meet in the cirque after Ariel is fired from the ballet.
That sums the whole book about up, because the characters are flat, the story line is not going anywhere. This book did not call any deep emotions in me it was kind off boring.
December 15, 2015
Could not finish. Ari was too immature to really connect with and the narration and some of the dialogue seemed too cheesy. The writing just wasn't good enough to continue reading. All it did was annoying me while reading that I found it wasn't worth knowing how the end turned out. Gabriel could have been a very intriguing character, but even he lacked depth. I was really disappointed.
The only great thing about this book was the cover.
The only great thing about this book was the cover.
March 11, 2013
RATING CLARIFICATION : 3.5 Stars
I liked this one but it didn't WOW me. I wish I knew what to say about this book, but I really don't. I wish the book would've centered more around Gabriel and Ariel's relationship. I felt it took to long to see a connection between the two characters. I really liked the storyline and the setting of the circus. I really did enjoy this story and felt it was worth the read, I just don't know how to express my feelings about it.
I liked this one but it didn't WOW me. I wish I knew what to say about this book, but I really don't. I wish the book would've centered more around Gabriel and Ariel's relationship. I felt it took to long to see a connection between the two characters. I really liked the storyline and the setting of the circus. I really did enjoy this story and felt it was worth the read, I just don't know how to express my feelings about it.
April 10, 2013
I really hate to give bad reviews, but I just could not finish this book...and it has been awhile since I have given up on a book. I read more than halfway thru and just did not really care what happened with these characters. I really wanted to love this book...but all I kept thinking is that I could be reading something else....
February 26, 2013
I loved the concept of this book, but it was too short. The girl annoyed me. She was childish. Gabriel was okay. The story was missing something. I didn't feel it when I read it. It was lacking passion, in all aspects.
March 14, 2013
I liked The Cirque. It was...cute?
I thought the story had potential but ultimately lacked depth. I was also annoyed by how immauture most of the characters were. I think i'd really enjoy a similar book that's more developed.
I thought the story had potential but ultimately lacked depth. I was also annoyed by how immauture most of the characters were. I think i'd really enjoy a similar book that's more developed.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews