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Humbug
In 1956, Faye Lewis is desperate for a fresh start. Fleeing a broken marriage in Southern Illinois, she takes a job with a traveling circus-only to find herself assigned to the sideshow.
On the fringes of the carnival lies a quaint yet unsettling tent, where spectators pay to witness the bizarre talents and physical anomalies of the "geek" performers. To Faye, it is strange, fascinating... and unlike anything she has ever known.
But as she settles into this peculiar world, something begins to feel wrong.
Beneath the bright lights and spectacle lies a darker truth-one that draws Faye into an odd world shaped by deception, coercion, and quiet brutality.
Humbug is a psychological suspense novel exploring the hidden underbelly of a world often romanticized. Blending themes of illusion, grief, and moral compromise, it asks: how far will someone go to belong-and what does it cost to look away?
On the fringes of the carnival lies a quaint yet unsettling tent, where spectators pay to witness the bizarre talents and physical anomalies of the "geek" performers. To Faye, it is strange, fascinating... and unlike anything she has ever known.
But as she settles into this peculiar world, something begins to feel wrong.
Beneath the bright lights and spectacle lies a darker truth-one that draws Faye into an odd world shaped by deception, coercion, and quiet brutality.
Humbug is a psychological suspense novel exploring the hidden underbelly of a world often romanticized. Blending themes of illusion, grief, and moral compromise, it asks: how far will someone go to belong-and what does it cost to look away?
528 pages, Hardcover
Published May 15, 2026
About the author
A. M. Walton
1 book5 followersA. M. Walton is an author and psychologist with a deep fascination for the complexities of the human mind and emotion. His writing often explores the darker aspects of the human experience, with a particular interest in the hidden sensitivities, fears, and closely guarded secrets of seemingly ordinary people.
When he’s not writing or working as a psychologist, A. M. Walton can usually be found reading suspense novels, spending time with his dogs, or dreaming up new ways to keep readers awake at night.
When he’s not writing or working as a psychologist, A. M. Walton can usually be found reading suspense novels, spending time with his dogs, or dreaming up new ways to keep readers awake at night.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
July 12, 2026
Humbug is a work of psychological suspense by emerging author, A.M. Walton. I was most intrigued with the time period chosen by the author, the 1950s, the physical location of the American Midwest and most importantly, the less unexplored world of the people who make up circus life, both the itinerant workmen and the performers who humiliate themselves or endanger their lives on a routine basis for the amusement of others. There’s something oddly compelling about how people manage to make their own way through life when they don’t fit neatly within societal norms.
In Humbug, we are introduced to the main character Faye, a fairly unremarkable woman of this era who struggles against the confines of an emotionally desolate and sometimes violent, marriage with a husband who, in many ways, has not evolved beyond a stranger. She is not strongly independent by nature and her attempts to secure a new life for herself are harrowing and tentatively undertaken but ultimately bold when she finds work in a circus.
The author interestingly, spends time detailing a couple of marginal figures in Faye’s life whom she clearly relies upon for support rather than her mother or her husband. We get a close look at a doctor whom she continues to see more for the comfort of the long-standing relationship since childhood, despite the current geographical inconvenience. She likewise continues to patronize a store located across state lines which she used to frequent in her high school days. It is perhaps the constancy of these people which is more important to Faye at this time than any particular aspect of their personalities.
The circus “geeks”, Faye befriends, have various physical traits which would be considered unusual and yet, despite their challenges, they are in many ways more grounded. This provides a stark contrast to Faye, our stand-in for “regular” people. Though Humbug is focused on Faye’s development, Walton provides a sensitively wrought and thoughtful portrait of marginalized individuals, protective mothers, hard workers, heart-broken young men and mid-life malaise.
This novel would be of interest to anyone who enjoys intricately drawn character studies, set against an unusual backdrop, which fully examines our weaknesses and strengths as humans.
In Humbug, we are introduced to the main character Faye, a fairly unremarkable woman of this era who struggles against the confines of an emotionally desolate and sometimes violent, marriage with a husband who, in many ways, has not evolved beyond a stranger. She is not strongly independent by nature and her attempts to secure a new life for herself are harrowing and tentatively undertaken but ultimately bold when she finds work in a circus.
The author interestingly, spends time detailing a couple of marginal figures in Faye’s life whom she clearly relies upon for support rather than her mother or her husband. We get a close look at a doctor whom she continues to see more for the comfort of the long-standing relationship since childhood, despite the current geographical inconvenience. She likewise continues to patronize a store located across state lines which she used to frequent in her high school days. It is perhaps the constancy of these people which is more important to Faye at this time than any particular aspect of their personalities.
The circus “geeks”, Faye befriends, have various physical traits which would be considered unusual and yet, despite their challenges, they are in many ways more grounded. This provides a stark contrast to Faye, our stand-in for “regular” people. Though Humbug is focused on Faye’s development, Walton provides a sensitively wrought and thoughtful portrait of marginalized individuals, protective mothers, hard workers, heart-broken young men and mid-life malaise.
This novel would be of interest to anyone who enjoys intricately drawn character studies, set against an unusual backdrop, which fully examines our weaknesses and strengths as humans.
August 27, 2026
Humbug (noun): something intended to deceive; deliberate trickery intended to gain an advantage; a person who is intentionally deceptive or insincere
Well, until this point, Ebenezer Scrooge was the only person I knew to use the word “humbug.” I was quite curious to learn how this book earned that title, and it eventually became clear. (No spoilers!) I also eventually understood the symbolism behind the cover art; however, considering that the circus is the main focus of this story, I feel it would have been super enticing with a really cool, colorful, circus-themed cover.
This was a very different and refreshing novel, and I was totally invested. I cared about the main character, Faye. Her fear toward her abusive husband was palpable, and her infertility issues felt relatable. But that was just where the story began.
Once Faye bravely escapes her nightmarish life, she randomly finds herself working at the circus. She is assigned to work with the sideshow freaks (although they call themselves geeks). They are “survivors in a cruel and unforgiving world -- one that wasn’t quite built for them and likely never would be.” It was so lovely to get to know each of the geeks and to learn about how they “operate” during their shows. Faye and the geeks become a little family, and, like all families, we get to see both high and low moments among them.
I also loved the way the story paints a captivating picture of the otherworldly nature of the circus - a place that “enchanted [spectators] in a way their daily lives couldn’t.” BUT, it also unveils the hidden evils, secrets, and corrupt practices behind the dazzling facade. Like so many things in life, appearance and reality are two very different things.
I would like to thank A.M. Walton for choosing me to read and review his book. It was an honor and a pleasure, and I really enjoyed the experience.
Well, until this point, Ebenezer Scrooge was the only person I knew to use the word “humbug.” I was quite curious to learn how this book earned that title, and it eventually became clear. (No spoilers!) I also eventually understood the symbolism behind the cover art; however, considering that the circus is the main focus of this story, I feel it would have been super enticing with a really cool, colorful, circus-themed cover.
This was a very different and refreshing novel, and I was totally invested. I cared about the main character, Faye. Her fear toward her abusive husband was palpable, and her infertility issues felt relatable. But that was just where the story began.
Once Faye bravely escapes her nightmarish life, she randomly finds herself working at the circus. She is assigned to work with the sideshow freaks (although they call themselves geeks). They are “survivors in a cruel and unforgiving world -- one that wasn’t quite built for them and likely never would be.” It was so lovely to get to know each of the geeks and to learn about how they “operate” during their shows. Faye and the geeks become a little family, and, like all families, we get to see both high and low moments among them.
I also loved the way the story paints a captivating picture of the otherworldly nature of the circus - a place that “enchanted [spectators] in a way their daily lives couldn’t.” BUT, it also unveils the hidden evils, secrets, and corrupt practices behind the dazzling facade. Like so many things in life, appearance and reality are two very different things.
I would like to thank A.M. Walton for choosing me to read and review his book. It was an honor and a pleasure, and I really enjoyed the experience.
July 17, 2026
Humbug by A.M. Walton (Debut Novel) 4.5⭐
Sometimes a book surprises you in the most unexpected ways.
I picked up Humbug without knowing much about it, and what I found was a story that felt equal parts whimsical, mysterious, and quietly profound, true to its name. It has that small-town charm where every character has a story to tell, yet there's an underlying sense that something isn't quite as it seems.
At its heart, Humbug explores:
🪞The power of appearances versus reality.
🪀How nostalgia can both comfort and deceive.
🩺The influence of charismatic people on a community.
☯️The blurred line between truth, illusion, and self-delusion.
What I loved most was the atmosphere. It has a magical realism vibe without being over-the-top, making the ordinary feel just a little extraordinary. The characters are eccentric, flawed, and wonderfully human, and I enjoyed discovering their stories as the plot unfolded.
The pacing is gentle, so if you're looking for a fast-paced thriller, this may not be the right book. Instead, it's a story that asks you to slow down and savour the little details.
There were moments when I wished the narrative moved a bit quicker, but the payoff was worth the patience.
Humbug is about hope, second chances, and the stories we choose to believe. It's warm, thought-provoking, and sprinkled with just enough mystery to keep the pages turning.
If you enjoy character-driven stories with a touch of magic and plenty of heart, Humbug deserves a place on your shelf.
A whimsical, atmospheric tale about small-town secrets, deception, and the seductive power of believing in beautiful illusions.
Sometimes a book surprises you in the most unexpected ways.
I picked up Humbug without knowing much about it, and what I found was a story that felt equal parts whimsical, mysterious, and quietly profound, true to its name. It has that small-town charm where every character has a story to tell, yet there's an underlying sense that something isn't quite as it seems.
At its heart, Humbug explores:
🪞The power of appearances versus reality.
🪀How nostalgia can both comfort and deceive.
🩺The influence of charismatic people on a community.
☯️The blurred line between truth, illusion, and self-delusion.
What I loved most was the atmosphere. It has a magical realism vibe without being over-the-top, making the ordinary feel just a little extraordinary. The characters are eccentric, flawed, and wonderfully human, and I enjoyed discovering their stories as the plot unfolded.
The pacing is gentle, so if you're looking for a fast-paced thriller, this may not be the right book. Instead, it's a story that asks you to slow down and savour the little details.
There were moments when I wished the narrative moved a bit quicker, but the payoff was worth the patience.
Humbug is about hope, second chances, and the stories we choose to believe. It's warm, thought-provoking, and sprinkled with just enough mystery to keep the pages turning.
If you enjoy character-driven stories with a touch of magic and plenty of heart, Humbug deserves a place on your shelf.
A whimsical, atmospheric tale about small-town secrets, deception, and the seductive power of believing in beautiful illusions.
September 7, 2026
As an Illinois resident, I was immediately drawn to A. M. Walton’s Humbug because so much of the story unfolds across Southern Illinois. Setting a 1950s drama against that familiar regional backdrop instantly gave the book a strong sense of place for me. However, I quickly discovered that despite the stylized DNA cover, this isn't a medical thriller or a high-octane mystery—it’s a deeply interior, character-driven historical study.
The narrative follows Faye Lewis as she flees a suffocating, abusive marriage and carves out a new existence working alongside the sideshow performers of a traveling carnival. What I appreciated most was Walton’s eye for atmospheric grit. The traveling carnival feels lived-in and authentic, capturing both the tight-knit warmth and the quiet menace of an itinerant community on the margins of mid-century America. I thought Faye’s psychological struggle—especially the way her trauma leads her to rationalize red flags just to feel secure—felt grounded and human.
My main critique lies in the pacing. At over 600 pages, the story asks for serious patience. I found myself wishing the middle section moved faster, as Faye’s internal monologues tend to loop over the same emotional ground before the plot takes another step forward.
Ultimately, if you go in expecting a brisk, twist-heavy suspense novel, you might find yourself frustrated by the deliberate, telling-versus-showing pace. But for me, the rich Midwestern texture and patient character work made it an interesting, if slightly bloated, exploration of complicity and survival.
The narrative follows Faye Lewis as she flees a suffocating, abusive marriage and carves out a new existence working alongside the sideshow performers of a traveling carnival. What I appreciated most was Walton’s eye for atmospheric grit. The traveling carnival feels lived-in and authentic, capturing both the tight-knit warmth and the quiet menace of an itinerant community on the margins of mid-century America. I thought Faye’s psychological struggle—especially the way her trauma leads her to rationalize red flags just to feel secure—felt grounded and human.
My main critique lies in the pacing. At over 600 pages, the story asks for serious patience. I found myself wishing the middle section moved faster, as Faye’s internal monologues tend to loop over the same emotional ground before the plot takes another step forward.
Ultimately, if you go in expecting a brisk, twist-heavy suspense novel, you might find yourself frustrated by the deliberate, telling-versus-showing pace. But for me, the rich Midwestern texture and patient character work made it an interesting, if slightly bloated, exploration of complicity and survival.
September 17, 2026
A.M. Walton's Humbug is an absorbing work of psychological suspense that stands out for its unusual setting and richly developed characters. Set in the American Midwest during the 1950s, the novel explores the fascinating world of circus life through the eyes of Faye, a woman trapped in a loveless and often violent marriage. Her decision to seek a new beginning among a traveling circus provides the foundation for a compelling story of self-discovery and resilience.
What makes Humbug particularly memorable is Walton's sensitive portrayal of people living on the margins of society. The circus performers, especially the so called "geeks", are depicted with dignity and depth, contrasting sharply with the supposedly conventional world Faye leaves behind. The author also pays careful attention to the quieter relationships in Faye's life, highlighting the importance of familiarity and support during times of personal upheaval.
More than a suspense novel, Humbug is an insightful character study that examines loneliness, belonging, and human vulnerability. Readers who enjoy historical settings, complex characters, and thoughtful explorations of social outsiders will find much to admire in this engaging and atmospheric novel.
What makes Humbug particularly memorable is Walton's sensitive portrayal of people living on the margins of society. The circus performers, especially the so called "geeks", are depicted with dignity and depth, contrasting sharply with the supposedly conventional world Faye leaves behind. The author also pays careful attention to the quieter relationships in Faye's life, highlighting the importance of familiarity and support during times of personal upheaval.
More than a suspense novel, Humbug is an insightful character study that examines loneliness, belonging, and human vulnerability. Readers who enjoy historical settings, complex characters, and thoughtful explorations of social outsiders will find much to admire in this engaging and atmospheric novel.
July 17, 2026
The story is engaging from the very beginning. The reader gradually discovers Faye, the main character, and her desire to change her life and escape from an abusive husband. Choosing a different path, she decides to join a traveling carnival caravan. There, the reader learns a great deal about daily life in a circus, the complexity of the relationships among community members who live and work closely together, and the challenges of balancing personal life and work in such an environment. And, of course, there are dark secrets waiting to be uncovered.
I would have liked the story to move a bit faster, with less description and more action. However, the author has done an excellent job of portraying Faye’s thoughts and emotions, making her a compelling and relatable character. The same care has been given to the supporting characters, each carrying their own secrets and hidden motivations. Overall, this is a book that invites readers who enjoy exploring the complexities of human nature and relationships.
I would have liked the story to move a bit faster, with less description and more action. However, the author has done an excellent job of portraying Faye’s thoughts and emotions, making her a compelling and relatable character. The same care has been given to the supporting characters, each carrying their own secrets and hidden motivations. Overall, this is a book that invites readers who enjoy exploring the complexities of human nature and relationships.
July 23, 2026
This was a fantastic read from beginning to end. The writing is beautiful and descriptive without ever feeling difficult to follow, which made it incredibly easy to become immersed in the story. The characters felt authentic and well-developed, and I found myself genuinely invested in their journeys.
One aspect that really stood out to me was the way the setting was brought to life. The descriptions were so vivid that I could easily picture every scene. The story also explores themes of grief, resilience, and moving forward with a great deal of care and authenticity. Those moments felt honest and emotionally impactful without being overdone.
I also appreciated the attention to detail throughout the book. It prompted me to think differently about things I hadn't really considered before, which is something I always value in a story.
If you're looking for a character-driven novel with beautiful writing, engaging storytelling, and plenty of heart, I'd highly recommend giving this book a read.
One aspect that really stood out to me was the way the setting was brought to life. The descriptions were so vivid that I could easily picture every scene. The story also explores themes of grief, resilience, and moving forward with a great deal of care and authenticity. Those moments felt honest and emotionally impactful without being overdone.
I also appreciated the attention to detail throughout the book. It prompted me to think differently about things I hadn't really considered before, which is something I always value in a story.
If you're looking for a character-driven novel with beautiful writing, engaging storytelling, and plenty of heart, I'd highly recommend giving this book a read.
July 28, 2026
Once the carnival hit I got more invested. Thats where it started feeling like it had its own identity instead of just being about her horrible marriage. The carnival feels warm and horrible at the same time which was good and interesting. You can see why she wants to stay even when its obvious a lot of it is pretty grim.
I liked quite a few of the characters but Phineas and Jon probably stood out the most. Phineas is just sad in a way that slowly gets worse and some of the later stuff with him hit harder than I expected. I also liked Miggie and the girls and the strange family feeling they all had. Nobody there is exactly safe or normal but it still feels more like home to Faye than where she came from.
The writing is very inside her head and sometimes that really works, especially when she starts justifying things to herself and you can see her changing. Other times it hit a bit flat as some emotions or thoughts were triple explained.
Towards the end if felt like it got faster for better or worse.
Was pretty good would recomend if your into character driven stories.
I liked quite a few of the characters but Phineas and Jon probably stood out the most. Phineas is just sad in a way that slowly gets worse and some of the later stuff with him hit harder than I expected. I also liked Miggie and the girls and the strange family feeling they all had. Nobody there is exactly safe or normal but it still feels more like home to Faye than where she came from.
The writing is very inside her head and sometimes that really works, especially when she starts justifying things to herself and you can see her changing. Other times it hit a bit flat as some emotions or thoughts were triple explained.
Towards the end if felt like it got faster for better or worse.
Was pretty good would recomend if your into character driven stories.
August 4, 2026
This story gave an interesting, and sometimes disturbing, look into the carnivals of the '50s.
At first, the protagonist, Faye, bothered me. She complained a lot. But, as the story progressed, aspects of her character and what she'd endured were revealed, and her personality made total sense. By the end, I was cheering her on. My favourite character, however, was Miggie, the bearded lady with two young daughters. She was tough yet nurturing towards her daughters and all the "geeks" (the sideshow performers).
The story, while well-written, had more detail than necessary. Therefore, it dragged on sometimes. There was also a plot point that felt unfinished. The events that happened at the beginning were mentioned here and there but not fully revisited as they would have been in most books. If they were, there would have been more tension around the last third of the book where the high stakes usually occur. Regardless, I'm glad I read this book. I felt a deep connection to each character.
At first, the protagonist, Faye, bothered me. She complained a lot. But, as the story progressed, aspects of her character and what she'd endured were revealed, and her personality made total sense. By the end, I was cheering her on. My favourite character, however, was Miggie, the bearded lady with two young daughters. She was tough yet nurturing towards her daughters and all the "geeks" (the sideshow performers).
The story, while well-written, had more detail than necessary. Therefore, it dragged on sometimes. There was also a plot point that felt unfinished. The events that happened at the beginning were mentioned here and there but not fully revisited as they would have been in most books. If they were, there would have been more tension around the last third of the book where the high stakes usually occur. Regardless, I'm glad I read this book. I felt a deep connection to each character.
August 6, 2026
Humbug pulled me in without my quite realizing it. Set in 1956, it follows Faye as she flees a broken, sometimes violent marriage and lands a job with a traveling circus — specifically the sideshow, where things get stranger the deeper she goes.
What makes it work is that Walton doesn't chase the glamour. The story digs into the messy human reality behind the curtain, and the "geek" performers Faye befriends turn out to be some of the most grounded, memorable characters in the book. It's a character study at heart, atmospheric and lived-in, and Faye's slow transformation from timid to bold feels earned.
Fair warning: it's a genuine slow burn, and on the long side. A few stretches could've been tightened — some dialogue runs to filler, and the pacing sags before the tension finally snaps into place. But if you like moody, character-driven stories with grit and an unusual backdrop, it rewards your patience.
A strong, thoughtful debut. I'd be curious to see what Walton writes next.
What makes it work is that Walton doesn't chase the glamour. The story digs into the messy human reality behind the curtain, and the "geek" performers Faye befriends turn out to be some of the most grounded, memorable characters in the book. It's a character study at heart, atmospheric and lived-in, and Faye's slow transformation from timid to bold feels earned.
Fair warning: it's a genuine slow burn, and on the long side. A few stretches could've been tightened — some dialogue runs to filler, and the pacing sags before the tension finally snaps into place. But if you like moody, character-driven stories with grit and an unusual backdrop, it rewards your patience.
A strong, thoughtful debut. I'd be curious to see what Walton writes next.
August 3, 2026
I was lucky enough to get a #gifted copy of Humbug by A.M. Walton, a debut psychological suspense novel that covers a handful of themes including my favorite- the blurred lines between truth, illusion, and self delusion.
Taking place in the 1950s, Faye leaves her un supportive husband after she finds out she can medically not conceive children, obviously being important to the main character taking place in this time period.
She flees her home and finds her way getting a job at the Carnival, being placed in the Freak Show tent, known as ‘Geeks’, Faye meets other individuals who are physically different but much the same as her as she gets to know them, their secrets, and the secrets of the Carnival.
Humbug is about second chances and how we deal with the truth vs what we want to believe. There are many twists, but this heartfelt novel makes you feel hope, even after the last page 🖤 This is a slower paced novel but worth every page!
Taking place in the 1950s, Faye leaves her un supportive husband after she finds out she can medically not conceive children, obviously being important to the main character taking place in this time period.
She flees her home and finds her way getting a job at the Carnival, being placed in the Freak Show tent, known as ‘Geeks’, Faye meets other individuals who are physically different but much the same as her as she gets to know them, their secrets, and the secrets of the Carnival.
Humbug is about second chances and how we deal with the truth vs what we want to believe. There are many twists, but this heartfelt novel makes you feel hope, even after the last page 🖤 This is a slower paced novel but worth every page!
August 16, 2026
okay this was NOT what i thought i was getting into 😅
i went into this one pretty much blind and all i really knew was that it was set in a traveling circus in the 1950s, which honestly was enough to get me interested.
we follow faye after she leaves a bad marriage and basically starts over by joining the circus and working in the sideshow. and from there things just get weirder and weirder 👀
i was pulled into this one pretty much right away. there were so many different things happening and little pieces being thrown in that i genuinely had no idea where any of it was going or how it was all going to connect.
the tension just kept building until everything started coming together and i was like, OH okay!!!
this was weird, eerie, twisty, and just completely different from the thrillers i normally read. i had no idea what to expect going in and honestly, i think that made it even better 🖤
thank you to @ash.m.walton for sending me a copy! 🖤
i went into this one pretty much blind and all i really knew was that it was set in a traveling circus in the 1950s, which honestly was enough to get me interested.
we follow faye after she leaves a bad marriage and basically starts over by joining the circus and working in the sideshow. and from there things just get weirder and weirder 👀
i was pulled into this one pretty much right away. there were so many different things happening and little pieces being thrown in that i genuinely had no idea where any of it was going or how it was all going to connect.
the tension just kept building until everything started coming together and i was like, OH okay!!!
this was weird, eerie, twisty, and just completely different from the thrillers i normally read. i had no idea what to expect going in and honestly, i think that made it even better 🖤
thank you to @ash.m.walton for sending me a copy! 🖤
July 15, 2026
It’s an interesting, atmospheric read that’s stayed with me; it’s a dark, lived-in kind of story.
Watching Faye leave an isolating, suffocating life to join a traveling circus was a really interesting transition, but she quickly finds that the circus isn’t the safe escape she was hoping for. I loved how the story didn’t just lean into the glamour, but instead dug into the messy, human reality behind the curtain, exposing the darker, more unsettling world beneath it all. It’s a character study at its core, and I really liked seeing how she handles the messiness of it all and the tough calls she has to make along the way.
If you’re looking for a book that really settles into its own moody, unsettling space and offers a character-driven story with plenty of grit and atmosphere, I’d highly recommend giving this one a try.
Watching Faye leave an isolating, suffocating life to join a traveling circus was a really interesting transition, but she quickly finds that the circus isn’t the safe escape she was hoping for. I loved how the story didn’t just lean into the glamour, but instead dug into the messy, human reality behind the curtain, exposing the darker, more unsettling world beneath it all. It’s a character study at its core, and I really liked seeing how she handles the messiness of it all and the tough calls she has to make along the way.
If you’re looking for a book that really settles into its own moody, unsettling space and offers a character-driven story with plenty of grit and atmosphere, I’d highly recommend giving this one a try.
July 21, 2026
The opening pars read like a gumshoe novel, with no description of the medical practice or Dr Murphy, apart from the fact that he was a father figure in the town and cared about his patients. But after the first few pages Walton hits his stride and starts to flesh out the characters and the settings in small-town USA in the 1950s. The story focuses on the struggles of the main protagonist Faye, who is dealing with the possibility of never having children and domestic violence, so she runs away to join the circus. There is quite a bit of unnecessary dialogue which, at times, felt like filler and it slows the pace. A good developmental editor would tighten the words and remove redundancies to amp up the tension. It is a slow burn, and the novel is overly long for the story, but it is still a gritty, interesting read.
August 10, 2026
What an AMAZING story!
Walton is a force to be reckoned with. From the very first page, this story grabs you and doesn’t let go. I adored the descriptive narrative. So often, we find modern fiction a tad like “fast food,” but not Humbug. This was a feast from start to finish, which was so refreshing. Walton doesn’t shy away from the depth of character development, the tools to create an immersive plot (Walton doesn’t shy away from exploring the subtle and direct elements, which layer the deeper we get into the story), and the rich setting (1950s).
What stood out to me about this story more than anything was the liveliness of it. Characters, like Faye, truly come to life because they imperfectly perfect. Flawed, relatable, and raw. It takes craft to write characters like this, so well done, Walton!
It’s stories like this that make storytelling rewarding. Amazing work.
Walton is a force to be reckoned with. From the very first page, this story grabs you and doesn’t let go. I adored the descriptive narrative. So often, we find modern fiction a tad like “fast food,” but not Humbug. This was a feast from start to finish, which was so refreshing. Walton doesn’t shy away from the depth of character development, the tools to create an immersive plot (Walton doesn’t shy away from exploring the subtle and direct elements, which layer the deeper we get into the story), and the rich setting (1950s).
What stood out to me about this story more than anything was the liveliness of it. Characters, like Faye, truly come to life because they imperfectly perfect. Flawed, relatable, and raw. It takes craft to write characters like this, so well done, Walton!
It’s stories like this that make storytelling rewarding. Amazing work.
September 30, 2026
I really didn't know what to expect when I picked this up, but it turned out to be pretty interesting. Set in 1956, the story follows Faye as she trades a bad marriage for a job with a traveling circus.
The book delivered a gritty, atmospheric 1950s setting that feels entirely lived-in. I enjoyed watching Faye's gradual transformation from timid to bold as she connected with the performers, such as Maggie who is wonderfully human. It’s definitely more of a character study at heart than a fast-paced thriller.
That said, fair warning: the book is slow paced, and the prose is not as tight as I would prefer which did make the book drag a bit and was longer than necessary. And the book is LONG. However, the moody tension, deep emotional complexity, and haunting tone made it a memorable story that I'm glad I stuck with.
The book delivered a gritty, atmospheric 1950s setting that feels entirely lived-in. I enjoyed watching Faye's gradual transformation from timid to bold as she connected with the performers, such as Maggie who is wonderfully human. It’s definitely more of a character study at heart than a fast-paced thriller.
That said, fair warning: the book is slow paced, and the prose is not as tight as I would prefer which did make the book drag a bit and was longer than necessary. And the book is LONG. However, the moody tension, deep emotional complexity, and haunting tone made it a memorable story that I'm glad I stuck with.
July 28, 2026
When I tell you I had no idea what I was getting myself into… I mean it. I went in completely blind, and I was not expecting this story at all.
Set in a traveling circus in the 1950s, the story follows Faye as she’s trying to start over after leaving a bad marriage. She ends up working in the sideshow, and from there things just keep getting stranger. The deeper she gets into that world, the more you realize something isn’t right.
I loved how this book slowly pulled me in. It wasn’t full of nonstop action it built the tension little by little until BANG. Everything hit all at once.
This wasn’t your typical psychological suspense. It was eerie, unsettling, and so different from anything I’ve read lately. And it did not disappoint not one bit.
Set in a traveling circus in the 1950s, the story follows Faye as she’s trying to start over after leaving a bad marriage. She ends up working in the sideshow, and from there things just keep getting stranger. The deeper she gets into that world, the more you realize something isn’t right.
I loved how this book slowly pulled me in. It wasn’t full of nonstop action it built the tension little by little until BANG. Everything hit all at once.
This wasn’t your typical psychological suspense. It was eerie, unsettling, and so different from anything I’ve read lately. And it did not disappoint not one bit.
September 1, 2026
A Haunting and Atmospheric Circus Story
I really enjoyed Humbug by A.M. Walton because it pulled me into a strange, atmospheric 1950s traveling circus that felt unsettling but fascinating. I connected with Faye as she escaped a painful marriage and slowly found the courage to rebuild her life. Miggie stood out to me as one of the most memorable figures, and characters like Ellis added to the uneasy mystery of the sideshow world. Faye’s growth resonated with me because it felt realistic, messy, and earned rather than sudden. I did think the pacing was slow in places, and a few sections could have been tighter, but the mood and characters kept me invested. Overall, I found this to be a memorable, emotional debut with a haunting sense of place.
I really enjoyed Humbug by A.M. Walton because it pulled me into a strange, atmospheric 1950s traveling circus that felt unsettling but fascinating. I connected with Faye as she escaped a painful marriage and slowly found the courage to rebuild her life. Miggie stood out to me as one of the most memorable figures, and characters like Ellis added to the uneasy mystery of the sideshow world. Faye’s growth resonated with me because it felt realistic, messy, and earned rather than sudden. I did think the pacing was slow in places, and a few sections could have been tighter, but the mood and characters kept me invested. Overall, I found this to be a memorable, emotional debut with a haunting sense of place.
August 21, 2026
Creepy, gritty, and hard to put down
I've always had a soft spot for vintage circus stories so I picked this up without expecting too much, but it totally sucked me in. The 1950s traveling sideshow setting was done so well, and it definitely avoids the usual romanticized version. You really feel for Faye trying to escape a broken marriage, but watching her get slowly pulled into the shady, manipulative stuff going on behind the curtains was genunely unsettling. It really makes you think about how far someone will go to feel like they belong, and what they're willing to ignore. A great psychological read with tons of dark atmosphere, really glad I stumbled onto it.
I've always had a soft spot for vintage circus stories so I picked this up without expecting too much, but it totally sucked me in. The 1950s traveling sideshow setting was done so well, and it definitely avoids the usual romanticized version. You really feel for Faye trying to escape a broken marriage, but watching her get slowly pulled into the shady, manipulative stuff going on behind the curtains was genunely unsettling. It really makes you think about how far someone will go to feel like they belong, and what they're willing to ignore. A great psychological read with tons of dark atmosphere, really glad I stumbled onto it.
June 15, 2026
Humbug is a story filled with contrast and tension. For the protagonist, she needs to choose between a predetermined world and one that she scandalously seeks of her own volition. The novel picks apart societal and individual norms and lends analysis without ever being intellectual. Sometimes it feels like the author switches places with the characters with his use of honest description and character discourse. The story feels a bit like a dream. Humbug is written with awareness, elegance, kindness and it draws in the reader ever so gently to its unique story.
August 1, 2026
while i liked the premise of the story, it fell flat for me. i truly don’t think i was the right audience for it. it held my attention for the first half, then i found myself skimming through multiple paragraphs.
again, i liked the premise of the story, but at times it felt like the author didn’t trust the readers to infer subtext. there was a lot of telling, and very little showing. in addition, the same handful of phrases was used multiple times per page, and it was distracting me from the actual story.
again, i liked the premise of the story, but at times it felt like the author didn’t trust the readers to infer subtext. there was a lot of telling, and very little showing. in addition, the same handful of phrases was used multiple times per page, and it was distracting me from the actual story.
June 30, 2026
Humbug is slow, heavy, and honestly kind of exhausting, but in a good way. Faye’s life starts out so suffocating, then the carnival becomes this strange escape that is also very much not safe. The whole book feels like grief wearing glitter. It takes patience, but I really liked how “humbug” ends up meaning way more than carnival tricks.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 5, 2026
Humbug surprised me. Walton takes a familiar premise — woman flees a bad marriage , and makes it feel fresh through the circus backdrop and the strange, tender community Faye finds there. The pacing drags a little in the middle, but the characters more than carry it, especially the “geeks” whose humanity anchors the whole book. Faye’s journey from passive to bold never feels rushed or unearned. A strong, thoughtful debut. I’ll be watching for whatever Walton writes next.
July 11, 2026
An evocative and thrilling read that cleverly explores the psychology of belonging in America’s Midwest country towns. This novel grabs you from the first page with intriguing but unsettling characters and a plot that draws you into the dark side of American freakshows and leaves you questioning your own judgement and morality.
September 16, 2026
This was such a different read for me, and I ended up really enjoying it! It was slow and atmospheric, but I became so attached to this little found family that I cried by the end 🥹 I only wish the ending had slowed down and given me more time with each of them. Also, Humbug has officially entered my vocabulary, so there’s that😆
May 17, 2026
I read this book to my mom recently in the hospital. Is a very easy read and contains great visuals of life in the Midwest. Some great surprises keep you on the edge of your seat. Great book!
June 21, 2026
Fantastic read!! Would highly recommend
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