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Of Dust and Flame
Ella Olsen was born to perform acrobatic feats in her father's circus, but as an Essentia who can manipulate fire, hanging from ropes at death-defying heights has kept her from her place in the spotlight. Witnessing her beloved father suffer after the financial crisis of 1929, she vowed to do anything to protect the Olsen Brothers' circus from the fate of so many other shows—including making a dangerous deal that could expose her magic to the wrong people.
When Ella is involved in a tragic fire that destroys her circus and all her key memories, she's thrust into a new world that only slightly resembles the one she knew, with acrobats, animal tamers, and a charismatic ringmaster, but in the Cirque du Mystique, everyone is an Essentia like her.
Maddock, a handsome con artist and fellow aerialist, has come to collect payment from the deal Ella can no longer remember making. She must join him in a deadly showcase called The Spectacle where she will be forced to push her powers to their limits. As Ella's memories return, her desire to survive transforms into a quest for answers.
But the closer she gets to the truth, the more history threatens to repeat itself.
When Ella is involved in a tragic fire that destroys her circus and all her key memories, she's thrust into a new world that only slightly resembles the one she knew, with acrobats, animal tamers, and a charismatic ringmaster, but in the Cirque du Mystique, everyone is an Essentia like her.
Maddock, a handsome con artist and fellow aerialist, has come to collect payment from the deal Ella can no longer remember making. She must join him in a deadly showcase called The Spectacle where she will be forced to push her powers to their limits. As Ella's memories return, her desire to survive transforms into a quest for answers.
But the closer she gets to the truth, the more history threatens to repeat itself.
404 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 9, 2024
8 people are currently reading
53 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
April 16, 2024
4.5/5
I am a SUCKER for circus books, I have to admit. Anyone who wasn't certain about The Night Circus' prose, but wanted a story about rival circus performers falling in love - this is for YOU, my friends.
This is a spellbinding historical fantasy that transports readers to the world of 1929, where hardship and uncertainty reign supreme. At the heart of the story is Ella Olsen, a talented acrobat with the ability to manipulate fire, whose life is constantly upended by tragedy and mystery. Along the way, she meets Maddock - who works for a rival circus. At the beginning, she has lost her memories and all she knows is that Maddock has something to do with it. We slowly learn their shared past throughout the novel and it's a fascinating way to go from enemies to lovers. As Ella delves deeper into the secrets of her past, she must navigate a dangerous world filled with deception and betrayal, all while uncovering the truth about herself and her place in the world.
The author's storytelling prowess shines through in the richly detailed setting and complex characters. The juxtaposition of real-world struggles with magical elements adds a compelling layer.
The romance between Ella and Maddock is both tender and tumultuous, adding a layer of complexity to the story as their relationship evolves against the backdrop of Ella slowly regaining her memories.
This is a great read that will appeal to fans of historical fantasy and magical realism alike. Check it out!
Thanks so much to Luna Blooms and the author for the e-copy. This review is based on a complimentary pre-released copy and it is voluntary.
I am a SUCKER for circus books, I have to admit. Anyone who wasn't certain about The Night Circus' prose, but wanted a story about rival circus performers falling in love - this is for YOU, my friends.
This is a spellbinding historical fantasy that transports readers to the world of 1929, where hardship and uncertainty reign supreme. At the heart of the story is Ella Olsen, a talented acrobat with the ability to manipulate fire, whose life is constantly upended by tragedy and mystery. Along the way, she meets Maddock - who works for a rival circus. At the beginning, she has lost her memories and all she knows is that Maddock has something to do with it. We slowly learn their shared past throughout the novel and it's a fascinating way to go from enemies to lovers. As Ella delves deeper into the secrets of her past, she must navigate a dangerous world filled with deception and betrayal, all while uncovering the truth about herself and her place in the world.
The author's storytelling prowess shines through in the richly detailed setting and complex characters. The juxtaposition of real-world struggles with magical elements adds a compelling layer.
The romance between Ella and Maddock is both tender and tumultuous, adding a layer of complexity to the story as their relationship evolves against the backdrop of Ella slowly regaining her memories.
This is a great read that will appeal to fans of historical fantasy and magical realism alike. Check it out!
Thanks so much to Luna Blooms and the author for the e-copy. This review is based on a complimentary pre-released copy and it is voluntary.
April 12, 2024
This was an interesting read. I can safely say I don't think I've read anything remotely similar to this story.
Ella, our FMC is a fiery (quite literally) circus performer. 🎪
Maddock is also a circus performer, but for a rival circus.
The story unravels much like an aerial performer in the silks. We get a back and forth between present day and Ella's memories as they slowly come back to her.
There's a unique magic system. A dash of spice. Good tension at times. Decent to good characters. Story did confuse me a lil at first with the back and forth but it gets easier to follow as it goes. It's a story of found family, healing vs bitterness, trauma, enemies to lovers(ish), girl power, one bed, some references to abuse...
I enjoyed the story and am so happy to report that it does not end in a cliffie.
Ella, our FMC is a fiery (quite literally) circus performer. 🎪
Maddock is also a circus performer, but for a rival circus.
The story unravels much like an aerial performer in the silks. We get a back and forth between present day and Ella's memories as they slowly come back to her.
There's a unique magic system. A dash of spice. Good tension at times. Decent to good characters. Story did confuse me a lil at first with the back and forth but it gets easier to follow as it goes. It's a story of found family, healing vs bitterness, trauma, enemies to lovers(ish), girl power, one bed, some references to abuse...
I enjoyed the story and am so happy to report that it does not end in a cliffie.
May 13, 2024
Okay I’m not going to lie, when I first heard this described as a “circus romance” I was skeptical! But after reading I was pleasantly surprised! Everything about the book works: the era of time, magic system, relationships between characters- all of it! And the included love story was just **chefs kiss**!! If this is what I can expect from other circus themed novels I will have to expand my horizons!
May 22, 2024
My Rating: ★★★★☆
Of Dust and Flames, penned by the talented A. Martin, is a mesmerising journey into the heart of a circus unlike any other. Set against the backdrop of the tumultuous 1920s, this independently published gem offers readers an unforgettable blend of magic, mystery, and mesmerising acrobatics.
Ella Olsen, our fiery protagonist, is a captivating Essentia whose power over flames is as mesmerising as it is dangerous. Martin masterfully crafts Ella's character, imbuing her with depth and vulnerability as she navigates the highs and lows of circus life. From her daring acrobatic feats to her unwavering determination to protect her family's circus, Ella shines as a beacon of strength and resilience.
The world-building in Of Dust and Flames is simply superb. Martin transports readers to the enchanting realm of the Cirque du Mystique, a place where every performer possesses their own unique magical abilities. From the charismatic ringmaster to the enigmatic fellow Essentias, each character adds layers of intrigue to the narrative, keeping readers eagerly turning the pages.
The plot unfolds with a perfect balance of suspense and heart-pounding action. As Ella grapples with lost memories and dangerous deals, readers are taken on a rollercoaster ride of twists and turns that will leave them breathless until the very end. Martin's prose is evocative and immersive, drawing readers into a world where anything is possible and danger lurks around every corner.
One of the standout elements of Of Dust and Flames is its exploration of identity and the power of memory. As Ella uncovers the truth about her past and the secrets hidden within the circus, she is forced to confront difficult truths about herself and the world around her. It's a journey of self-discovery that resonates long after the final page is turned.
In conclusion, Of Dust and Flames is a spellbinding tale that captivates from start to finish. A. Martin's masterful storytelling, coupled with a richly imagined world and compelling characters, make this a must-read for fans of fantasy and historical fiction alike. Whether you're drawn to the magic of the circus or the allure of a mystery waiting to be unraveled, this book has something for everyone. Highly recommended.
Of Dust and Flames, penned by the talented A. Martin, is a mesmerising journey into the heart of a circus unlike any other. Set against the backdrop of the tumultuous 1920s, this independently published gem offers readers an unforgettable blend of magic, mystery, and mesmerising acrobatics.
Ella Olsen, our fiery protagonist, is a captivating Essentia whose power over flames is as mesmerising as it is dangerous. Martin masterfully crafts Ella's character, imbuing her with depth and vulnerability as she navigates the highs and lows of circus life. From her daring acrobatic feats to her unwavering determination to protect her family's circus, Ella shines as a beacon of strength and resilience.
The world-building in Of Dust and Flames is simply superb. Martin transports readers to the enchanting realm of the Cirque du Mystique, a place where every performer possesses their own unique magical abilities. From the charismatic ringmaster to the enigmatic fellow Essentias, each character adds layers of intrigue to the narrative, keeping readers eagerly turning the pages.
The plot unfolds with a perfect balance of suspense and heart-pounding action. As Ella grapples with lost memories and dangerous deals, readers are taken on a rollercoaster ride of twists and turns that will leave them breathless until the very end. Martin's prose is evocative and immersive, drawing readers into a world where anything is possible and danger lurks around every corner.
One of the standout elements of Of Dust and Flames is its exploration of identity and the power of memory. As Ella uncovers the truth about her past and the secrets hidden within the circus, she is forced to confront difficult truths about herself and the world around her. It's a journey of self-discovery that resonates long after the final page is turned.
In conclusion, Of Dust and Flames is a spellbinding tale that captivates from start to finish. A. Martin's masterful storytelling, coupled with a richly imagined world and compelling characters, make this a must-read for fans of fantasy and historical fiction alike. Whether you're drawn to the magic of the circus or the allure of a mystery waiting to be unraveled, this book has something for everyone. Highly recommended.
April 23, 2024
Star rating: 5/5 stars
A spellbinding tale of magic, mystery, and courage, "Of Dust and Flame" by A. Martin is a must-read for fans of fantasy and adventure.
In this captivating story, we follow Ella Olsen, a young woman with the extraordinary ability to manipulate fire, as she navigates a world of danger and intrigue. Born into a circus, Ella has always felt like an outsider, hiding her powers and longing for a chance to shine in the spotlight. But when tragedy strikes and her circus is destroyed in a devastating fire, Ella's life takes an unexpected turn.
Thrown into the world of the Cirque du Mystique, a place where everyone possesses magical abilities like her own, Ella must confront her past and uncover the secrets hidden within her memories. Along the way, she forms an unlikely alliance with Maddock, a charming con artist with his own agenda. Together, they must navigate the treacherous world of the circus and unravel the mysteries that threaten to destroy them both.
A. Martin's writing is rich and evocative, drawing readers into a world filled with vivid imagery and unforgettable characters. From the thrill of the circus performances to the heart-pounding suspense of Ella's quest for truth, every page is infused with excitement and intrigue.
What sets "Of Dust and Flame" apart is its compelling protagonist, Ella Olsen. Strong-willed, determined, and fiercely independent, Ella is a heroine readers will root for from the very first page. Her journey of self-discovery and empowerment is both inspiring and heartwarming, making her a character that will stay with readers long after they've finished the book.
Overall, "Of Dust and Flame" is a breathtaking adventure that will captivate readers of all ages. With its imaginative world-building, gripping plot, and unforgettable characters, this book is sure to leave a lasting impression. Fans of fantasy and magic will not want to miss this thrilling tale.
A spellbinding tale of magic, mystery, and courage, "Of Dust and Flame" by A. Martin is a must-read for fans of fantasy and adventure.
In this captivating story, we follow Ella Olsen, a young woman with the extraordinary ability to manipulate fire, as she navigates a world of danger and intrigue. Born into a circus, Ella has always felt like an outsider, hiding her powers and longing for a chance to shine in the spotlight. But when tragedy strikes and her circus is destroyed in a devastating fire, Ella's life takes an unexpected turn.
Thrown into the world of the Cirque du Mystique, a place where everyone possesses magical abilities like her own, Ella must confront her past and uncover the secrets hidden within her memories. Along the way, she forms an unlikely alliance with Maddock, a charming con artist with his own agenda. Together, they must navigate the treacherous world of the circus and unravel the mysteries that threaten to destroy them both.
A. Martin's writing is rich and evocative, drawing readers into a world filled with vivid imagery and unforgettable characters. From the thrill of the circus performances to the heart-pounding suspense of Ella's quest for truth, every page is infused with excitement and intrigue.
What sets "Of Dust and Flame" apart is its compelling protagonist, Ella Olsen. Strong-willed, determined, and fiercely independent, Ella is a heroine readers will root for from the very first page. Her journey of self-discovery and empowerment is both inspiring and heartwarming, making her a character that will stay with readers long after they've finished the book.
Overall, "Of Dust and Flame" is a breathtaking adventure that will captivate readers of all ages. With its imaginative world-building, gripping plot, and unforgettable characters, this book is sure to leave a lasting impression. Fans of fantasy and magic will not want to miss this thrilling tale.
April 9, 2024
This book completely and utterly hooked me right from the first page. We grow up in awe of circus performers and their daring stunts. I always loved visiting the circus with my family as a child.
Ella and Maddock showed me that the circus is so much more than just a show. They are the show. The performers are the show. They bring it to life through love, determination and bravery. While Ella regains her memories and pieces together the life she lost, she learns to control her Essentia and unravels the mystery surrounding a mysterious heirloom her mother left behind. Her internalized personal struggle with leaving her circus behind for the Spectacle and the performance she has to give possibly leading to her death had me feeling a rollercoaster of emotions. Ella and Maddock's journey to take down the ringmaster of the circus, who had me seething with rage by the end of the book, results in an outcome neither of them could imagine.
A. Martin did a great job between past and present switching between Ella's point of view and the memories shown to her throughout the novel.
I was unable to put it down until I finished it, and it left me thirsty for more!
Ella and Maddock showed me that the circus is so much more than just a show. They are the show. The performers are the show. They bring it to life through love, determination and bravery. While Ella regains her memories and pieces together the life she lost, she learns to control her Essentia and unravels the mystery surrounding a mysterious heirloom her mother left behind. Her internalized personal struggle with leaving her circus behind for the Spectacle and the performance she has to give possibly leading to her death had me feeling a rollercoaster of emotions. Ella and Maddock's journey to take down the ringmaster of the circus, who had me seething with rage by the end of the book, results in an outcome neither of them could imagine.
A. Martin did a great job between past and present switching between Ella's point of view and the memories shown to her throughout the novel.
I was unable to put it down until I finished it, and it left me thirsty for more!
April 12, 2024
absolutely fell in love with book from the first page. It was refreshing from some of the other books I’ve recently been reading and was a fresh take a magic. The mystery, the circus, the main characters A. Martin did such a fabulous job with the story.
Ella is as fiery spirited as her red hair and Maddock silvery locks match his broody demeanor. Not quite sure enemies to lovers is the right term, but definitely close enough their slow burn love will take you on a wonderful journey with you trying to put the puzzle pieces of what exactly is going on right along with Ella as the story bounces between past and present.
Story is split in to 3 acts, had no cliffhanger, and left me wanting more of Ella and Maddock!
Ella is as fiery spirited as her red hair and Maddock silvery locks match his broody demeanor. Not quite sure enemies to lovers is the right term, but definitely close enough their slow burn love will take you on a wonderful journey with you trying to put the puzzle pieces of what exactly is going on right along with Ella as the story bounces between past and present.
Story is split in to 3 acts, had no cliffhanger, and left me wanting more of Ella and Maddock!
April 23, 2024
They say never judge a book by its cover but I sometimes still do and this one is one of them. I love books that have taken place at a circus or some time of circus performance is a main part of the book. This book follows a girl who loses her memories and is trying to get them back. Maddox who is from the rival circus does not seem to want her to get them back though and she wonders what role he has played in her life.
This has an enemies to lovers but maybe not enemies vibes and a morally grey MMC. The FMC, Ella, can make some questionable choices but the more you learn about her the more it makes sense.
I would also like to say thank you for the ARC of this read!
4/5⭐️ 1/5🌶️
This has an enemies to lovers but maybe not enemies vibes and a morally grey MMC. The FMC, Ella, can make some questionable choices but the more you learn about her the more it makes sense.
I would also like to say thank you for the ARC of this read!
4/5⭐️ 1/5🌶️
April 4, 2024
I always enjoyed the circus when I was younger. Never really knowing what can go on behind the scenes, because as a spectator, you only see the show put in front of you.
This story showed me so much more than just the circus, but love, laughter, deceit, longing, patience, revenge, and so much more when power is in the wrong hands. You feel as if you are taking part in the circus throughout the whole story. It's truly magical.
I was absolutely enthralled with this book, and I loved Ella and Maddock's story.
This story showed me so much more than just the circus, but love, laughter, deceit, longing, patience, revenge, and so much more when power is in the wrong hands. You feel as if you are taking part in the circus throughout the whole story. It's truly magical.
I was absolutely enthralled with this book, and I loved Ella and Maddock's story.
April 22, 2024
I haven't read another book like this. And this is a good thing. It's a mixture of fantasy, historical fiction, romance and it ticks all the boxes.
The story takes place around the 1930s and yet, not only it takes you back in time but also combines magical realism in such a way that seems so normal to be there.
The story of Ella is both captivating and very well exposed as the story progresses.
Overall, I liked this book a lot and I sure be following and reading more books of this author!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The story takes place around the 1930s and yet, not only it takes you back in time but also combines magical realism in such a way that seems so normal to be there.
The story of Ella is both captivating and very well exposed as the story progresses.
Overall, I liked this book a lot and I sure be following and reading more books of this author!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 10, 2024
I have never read a circus romance before and I was very intrigued and entertained by this story. The magic, the mystery and the adventure really propel this story into another level and Ella and Maddock made this a very intense and entertaining adventure to go on. The shifts from the past to the present and vice versa were done seamlessly and made this a thrilling adventure that I would highly, highly recommend. Thank you to Luna Blooms PR and A. Martin for the ARC of this wonderful story.
April 12, 2024
This story really brings the magic to life in the circus. I can't say there is much in the way of character and world building, as the story seems to jump right into the middle of everything. But that is the purpose. And the mystery of the story draws you in. Ella might seem to be shallow at first, but she really grows into her own through the story. I couldn't put it down. I would love to read more of this world and about Ella and Maddock.
April 14, 2024
Filled with all the wonder you'd expect from a fantasy or paranormal book entwined beautifully with the excitement of a circus.
Of Dust and Flame is an adventure fueled by mysterious powers, memory loss, hope, & a performance that will leave you satisfied by it's conclusion.
Another Evil Ringmaster against the powerful forces of magic itself & a pair that defies the odds.
I'd love to read more magical circuses.
ARC copy & my opinion is mine.
Of Dust and Flame is an adventure fueled by mysterious powers, memory loss, hope, & a performance that will leave you satisfied by it's conclusion.
Another Evil Ringmaster against the powerful forces of magic itself & a pair that defies the odds.
I'd love to read more magical circuses.
ARC copy & my opinion is mine.
April 10, 2024
Fabulous historical romantasy!
The majority of the story takes place in the 1930s with some memory flashbacks and the setting is fantastically done! We're at the circus so it's glittery and shiny but also grimy and has a sketchy underbelly. The twists and turns will keep you guessing until the end. Both the MMC and FMC are morally grey and their tensions is...wow.
Absolutely loved it!
The majority of the story takes place in the 1930s with some memory flashbacks and the setting is fantastically done! We're at the circus so it's glittery and shiny but also grimy and has a sketchy underbelly. The twists and turns will keep you guessing until the end. Both the MMC and FMC are morally grey and their tensions is...wow.
Absolutely loved it!
May 8, 2024
It's been awhile since I've read a book surrounding circus/circus performers, but this blew me away! I enjoyed the magic system as well as the fantasy adventure this story took me on. The main characters were well written and although you might what to yell/pull your hair out in some parts, they were easy to get to know and love. Definitely a great addition to the genre!
April 10, 2024
This book starts off with Elle starting a circus fire and then forgetting what really happened. The story is intriguing right from the start and the story moves at a fast pace. The book was quite entertaining and I really liked the story weaving and the characters.
April 29, 2024
Read my review at Nevy's Bookshelf
May 10, 2024
this could have been SO cool, but it just was
December 5, 2024
Magical Read!
Of Dust and Flame; Love and hate is at the circus that is set in the 1920’s and is a fantastical story of magic, mayhem and betrayal. This is a creatively written story with characters that are engaging, interesting and drew me in immediately. I really enjoyed this entertaining story. I recommend!
Of Dust and Flame; Love and hate is at the circus that is set in the 1920’s and is a fantastical story of magic, mayhem and betrayal. This is a creatively written story with characters that are engaging, interesting and drew me in immediately. I really enjoyed this entertaining story. I recommend!
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews