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The Ringmaster's Wife
What is revealed when you draw back the curtain of the Greatest Show on Earth?
Rosamund Easling is no stranger to opulence. As the daughter of an earl, she’s grown up with every comfort money can buy. But when hard times befall the family’s Yorkshire estate in the aftermath of the Great War, Rosamund’s father sells her beloved horse, setting the stage for a series of events that would extend beyond even her wildest dreams.
Though expected to marry for a title instead of love, Rosamund feels called to a different life – one of adventure outside the confines of a ladies’ parlor. She abandons all she’s known and follows in pursuit as her horse is shipped to the new owner – an American entertainer by the name of John Ringling. Once introduced to the Ringling Brothers’ circus and knowing she has much to learn, Rosamund agrees to a bareback riding apprenticeship in the shadow of the Ringlings’ winter home—Ca’D’Zan. It is at that mansion, in what would become the last days of the enigmatic Mable Ringling’s life, that Rosamund finds a deeper sense of purpose in the life she’s been given, and the awakening of faith in her heart.
With a supporting cast of characters as mysterious and dazzling as the Ringlings’ big-top world, Rosamund’s journey takes her from the tradition of the English countryside to the last days of America’s Roaring ‘20s—a journey that forever changes what one life might have been.
Rosamund Easling is no stranger to opulence. As the daughter of an earl, she’s grown up with every comfort money can buy. But when hard times befall the family’s Yorkshire estate in the aftermath of the Great War, Rosamund’s father sells her beloved horse, setting the stage for a series of events that would extend beyond even her wildest dreams.
Though expected to marry for a title instead of love, Rosamund feels called to a different life – one of adventure outside the confines of a ladies’ parlor. She abandons all she’s known and follows in pursuit as her horse is shipped to the new owner – an American entertainer by the name of John Ringling. Once introduced to the Ringling Brothers’ circus and knowing she has much to learn, Rosamund agrees to a bareback riding apprenticeship in the shadow of the Ringlings’ winter home—Ca’D’Zan. It is at that mansion, in what would become the last days of the enigmatic Mable Ringling’s life, that Rosamund finds a deeper sense of purpose in the life she’s been given, and the awakening of faith in her heart.
With a supporting cast of characters as mysterious and dazzling as the Ringlings’ big-top world, Rosamund’s journey takes her from the tradition of the English countryside to the last days of America’s Roaring ‘20s—a journey that forever changes what one life might have been.
362 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 7, 2016
266 people are currently reading
7747 people want to read
About the author
Kristy Cambron
20 books2,745 followersKristy Cambron is a USA TODAY bestselling author who writes from the space where beauty, art, and history intersect. She's an award-winning author of historical fiction, including her internationally bestselling novels, THE BUTTERFLY AND THE VIOLIN and THE PARIS DRESSMAKER, as well as nonfiction titles. Her work has been named to Cosmopolitan's Best Historical Fiction Novels, Library Journal’s Best Books, and has been featured at People Magazine, Once Upon a Book Club Box, Frolic, Book Club Girl, BookBub, and Country Woman magazine.
Her new novel, THE FRENCH KITCHEN, is available now -- in which an ex-pat wife haunted by her experiences as an undercover agent in the American OSS during WWII crosses paths with chef Julia Child in a post-war Paris cookery class, complicating the carefully constructed high-society world she’s built to hide her past.
Kristy holds a degree in art history/research writing and spent fifteen years in education and leadership development for a Fortune 100 corporation, partnering with such companies as the Disney Institute, IBM/Kenexa, and Gallup, before stepping away to pursue her passion for storytelling. She's also served as Vice President and a literary agent with Gardner Literary.
Kristy lives in Indiana with her husband and three basketball-loving sons, where she can probably be bribed with a peppermint mocha latte and a good read.
(Note: *Kristy does not use AI in her work. Please visit: kristycambron.com/contact for more information.)
To connect with Kristy, visit:
Kristy's Website: https://kristycambron.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristycambron/
Threads: https://www.threads.com/@kristycambron
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KCambronAuthor/
And sign up for her newsletter: https://kristycambron.myflodesk.com/
Her new novel, THE FRENCH KITCHEN, is available now -- in which an ex-pat wife haunted by her experiences as an undercover agent in the American OSS during WWII crosses paths with chef Julia Child in a post-war Paris cookery class, complicating the carefully constructed high-society world she’s built to hide her past.
Kristy holds a degree in art history/research writing and spent fifteen years in education and leadership development for a Fortune 100 corporation, partnering with such companies as the Disney Institute, IBM/Kenexa, and Gallup, before stepping away to pursue her passion for storytelling. She's also served as Vice President and a literary agent with Gardner Literary.
Kristy lives in Indiana with her husband and three basketball-loving sons, where she can probably be bribed with a peppermint mocha latte and a good read.
(Note: *Kristy does not use AI in her work. Please visit: kristycambron.com/contact for more information.)
To connect with Kristy, visit:
Kristy's Website: https://kristycambron.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristycambron/
Threads: https://www.threads.com/@kristycambron
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KCambronAuthor/
And sign up for her newsletter: https://kristycambron.myflodesk.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 660 reviews
February 15, 2017
3.75
Greats:
Historical research: I loved the facts and fictionalization of John and Mable Ringling's romance. It was precious to get a sense of how deeply he loved her and how she wise she was in undergirding his efforts. (The references in the back were interesting; evidently her influence had been a stabilizing influence on his spending/earning habits also.)
Circus details: I've actually read a few period books about the circus, detailing many facts that felt familiar when reading this story. It was great to be able to read through this story and have the details spring off the page just as vividly as those other authors who actually got to see the true circus in the period when it was touring.
Period literature: Oh, it steals my heart when an author makes the effort to actually find out what books were popular when the characters lived. Not every classic was a bestseller at first, and not every bestseller became a classic. Adding in The Heir Of Redclyffe and other lesser known books delights every corner of my book-loving heart.
Characters: Loved John and Mable...but also loved Rose and Colin! Especially the scene in the ring when he starts playing the violin!
Not so greats:
The timeline: I still love "Butterfly and the Violin" best out of the dual-timeline novels I've read. At times this was choppy, and I felt cheated of a few scenes that had to suffer. It felt more like vignettes in places, rather than getting to fall right into a story and live in it for several hundred pages. This did improve after the halfway point.
Historical oops: Often I find many of these, yet here there was just one—but this one kind of jumped out at me; when Colin fishes Rose out of the water when they meet, there's a mention that she was a woman driving a car alone as though that was odd or before its time. It would have been better phrased to make it clear that her impediment to driving was actually her parents' standards or disapproval; I have an entire shelf full of old books from the decade before WW1 where women were quite at home behind the wheels of early cars and only enlisted chauffeurs if they did not wish to drive or had plenty of money. I wouldn't have noticed it, I dare say, if I weren't well read in the genre of early cars...
Overall, an enjoyable book, though personally I still am partial to The Rose in the Ring and A Peep Behind the Scenes as my first two circus-tale loves. (These are both very old books.)
For lovers of: dual timelines, jazz age, circus, fictionalized historical-figure tales, horses, and romance.
Greats:
Historical research: I loved the facts and fictionalization of John and Mable Ringling's romance. It was precious to get a sense of how deeply he loved her and how she wise she was in undergirding his efforts. (The references in the back were interesting; evidently her influence had been a stabilizing influence on his spending/earning habits also.)
Circus details: I've actually read a few period books about the circus, detailing many facts that felt familiar when reading this story. It was great to be able to read through this story and have the details spring off the page just as vividly as those other authors who actually got to see the true circus in the period when it was touring.
Period literature: Oh, it steals my heart when an author makes the effort to actually find out what books were popular when the characters lived. Not every classic was a bestseller at first, and not every bestseller became a classic. Adding in The Heir Of Redclyffe and other lesser known books delights every corner of my book-loving heart.
Characters: Loved John and Mable...but also loved Rose and Colin! Especially the scene in the ring when he starts playing the violin!
Not so greats:
The timeline: I still love "Butterfly and the Violin" best out of the dual-timeline novels I've read. At times this was choppy, and I felt cheated of a few scenes that had to suffer. It felt more like vignettes in places, rather than getting to fall right into a story and live in it for several hundred pages. This did improve after the halfway point.
Historical oops: Often I find many of these, yet here there was just one—but this one kind of jumped out at me; when Colin fishes Rose out of the water when they meet, there's a mention that she was a woman driving a car alone as though that was odd or before its time. It would have been better phrased to make it clear that her impediment to driving was actually her parents' standards or disapproval; I have an entire shelf full of old books from the decade before WW1 where women were quite at home behind the wheels of early cars and only enlisted chauffeurs if they did not wish to drive or had plenty of money. I wouldn't have noticed it, I dare say, if I weren't well read in the genre of early cars...
Overall, an enjoyable book, though personally I still am partial to The Rose in the Ring and A Peep Behind the Scenes as my first two circus-tale loves. (These are both very old books.)
For lovers of: dual timelines, jazz age, circus, fictionalized historical-figure tales, horses, and romance.
June 22, 2016
The Ringmaster's Wife is my favourite book from Kristy Cambron so far. And that says a lot since I was absolutely obsessed with the Hidden Masterpiece dualogy. The Ringmaster's Wife completely transports you into a simpler time known as the Jazz Age. This book is so well researched where the historical aspects are concerned. As a history buff, I appreciate that. This is a historical novel that is a must read.
February 28, 2024
3.5 stars, personally.
About this book:
“What is revealed when you draw back the curtain of the Greatest Show on Earth?
Rosamund Easling is no stranger to opulence. As the daughter of an earl, she’s grown up with every comfort money can buy. But when hard times befall the family’s Yorkshire estate in the aftermath of the Great War, Rosamund’s father sells her beloved horse, setting the stage for a series of events that would extend beyond even her wildest dreams.
Though expected to marry for a title instead of love, Rosamund feels called to a different life – one of adventure outside the confines of a ladies’ parlor. She abandons all she’s known and follows in pursuit as her horse is shipped to the new owner – an American entertainer by the name of John Ringling. Once introduced to the Ringling Brothers’ circus and knowing she has much to learn, Rosamund agrees to a bareback riding apprenticeship in the shadow of the Ringlings’ winter home—Ca’D’Zan. It is at that mansion, in what would become the last days of the enigmatic Mable Ringling’s life, that Rosamund finds a deeper sense of purpose in the life she’s been given, and the awakening of faith in her heart.
With a supporting cast of characters as mysterious and dazzling as the Ringlings’ big-top world, Rosamund’s journey takes her from the tradition of the English countryside to the last days of America’s Roaring ‘20s—a journey that forever changes what one life might have been.”
Series: As of now, no.
Spiritual Content- Psalm 146:8 at the beginning; A few Scriptures are mentioned & talked about; A few Prayers; Talks about God; ‘H’s are capital when referring to God; Church going; ‘Thank God’s are said; Mentions of God; Mentions of prayers, praying, & blessings over food; Mentions of churches, church going, & ministers; A few mentions of faiths; A couple mentions of those in the Bible; A couple mentions of blessings; A couple mentions of sins; A mention of a Bible;
*Note: A couple mentions of devils; A ‘for God’s sake’ is said.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘heck’, and a ‘stupid’; A mention of wanting to curse; Eye rolling & Sass; Pain, Blood, & Injuries (up to semi-detailed); Being attacked & injuries (up to semi-detailed); Nearly drowning (up to semi-detailed); Fires, explosions, & kerosene (up to semi-detailed); Being threatened; Mentions of a war, battlefields, fighting, & deaths (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of a car accident & almost drowning (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of deaths, injuries, fires, flames, smoke, & explosions; Mentions of threats, an attack, injuries, & bleeding; Mentions of illnesses & fevers; Mentions of pickpockets & stealing; Mentions of card games with betting, gambling, & debts; Mentions of social drinking, drinking, alcohol, & the Prohibition laws of making/selling it; Mentions of cigars & smoking; Mentions of an animal being put down; Mentions of lies & lying; Mentions of gossip & rumors; A few mentions of an accidental death (barely-above-not-detailed); A few mentions of blackmail; A few mentions of tattoos; A couple mentions of coughing up blood; A couple mentions of someone in prison for selling alcohol; A mention of an attempted murder.
Sexual Content- three border-line barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed kisses; Remembering a kiss (barely-above-not-detailed); Touches, Hand Holding, Embraces, & Warmth (up to semi-detailed); Noticing (x2); a ‘vamp’; Mentions of a kiss & kissing; A few mentions of a man’s illegitimate birth; A few mentions of welcoming kisses & married couples kissing; A few mentions of reputations; A few mentions of blushes; A mention of cat calls & men gawking at women; Love, falling in love, & the emotions (x2);
*Note: Mentions of a couple not able to have biological children; A couple mentions of scandalous belly dancing.
-Rosamund Easling
-Armilda “Mable” Burton
-Colin Keary
P.O.V. switches between them
Set in 1926-1929 (Also skips to 1885, 1892-1893, 1904-1906, 1911-1912, 1920, & then the Epilogue is in 2002)
353 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- Two Stars
Early High School Teens- Three Stars
Older High School Teens- Four Stars
My personal Rating- Three Stars (and a half)
Very clean and set in an interesting environment, “The Ringmaster’s Wife” was a light and easy read. I enjoyed the light romance and all the historical facts about the Ringling Brothers’ circus.
This was my second book by this author and I definitely can feel her writing style. The places are always described in a winsome fashion and the characters always meet unique people through out the book. It was overall a very nice read and I enjoyed it. :)
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
About this book:
“What is revealed when you draw back the curtain of the Greatest Show on Earth?
Rosamund Easling is no stranger to opulence. As the daughter of an earl, she’s grown up with every comfort money can buy. But when hard times befall the family’s Yorkshire estate in the aftermath of the Great War, Rosamund’s father sells her beloved horse, setting the stage for a series of events that would extend beyond even her wildest dreams.
Though expected to marry for a title instead of love, Rosamund feels called to a different life – one of adventure outside the confines of a ladies’ parlor. She abandons all she’s known and follows in pursuit as her horse is shipped to the new owner – an American entertainer by the name of John Ringling. Once introduced to the Ringling Brothers’ circus and knowing she has much to learn, Rosamund agrees to a bareback riding apprenticeship in the shadow of the Ringlings’ winter home—Ca’D’Zan. It is at that mansion, in what would become the last days of the enigmatic Mable Ringling’s life, that Rosamund finds a deeper sense of purpose in the life she’s been given, and the awakening of faith in her heart.
With a supporting cast of characters as mysterious and dazzling as the Ringlings’ big-top world, Rosamund’s journey takes her from the tradition of the English countryside to the last days of America’s Roaring ‘20s—a journey that forever changes what one life might have been.”
Series: As of now, no.
Spiritual Content- Psalm 146:8 at the beginning; A few Scriptures are mentioned & talked about; A few Prayers; Talks about God; ‘H’s are capital when referring to God; Church going; ‘Thank God’s are said; Mentions of God; Mentions of prayers, praying, & blessings over food; Mentions of churches, church going, & ministers; A few mentions of faiths; A couple mentions of those in the Bible; A couple mentions of blessings; A couple mentions of sins; A mention of a Bible;
*Note: A couple mentions of devils; A ‘for God’s sake’ is said.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘heck’, and a ‘stupid’; A mention of wanting to curse; Eye rolling & Sass; Pain, Blood, & Injuries (up to semi-detailed); Being attacked & injuries (up to semi-detailed); Nearly drowning (up to semi-detailed); Fires, explosions, & kerosene (up to semi-detailed); Being threatened; Mentions of a war, battlefields, fighting, & deaths (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of a car accident & almost drowning (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of deaths, injuries, fires, flames, smoke, & explosions; Mentions of threats, an attack, injuries, & bleeding; Mentions of illnesses & fevers; Mentions of pickpockets & stealing; Mentions of card games with betting, gambling, & debts; Mentions of social drinking, drinking, alcohol, & the Prohibition laws of making/selling it; Mentions of cigars & smoking; Mentions of an animal being put down; Mentions of lies & lying; Mentions of gossip & rumors; A few mentions of an accidental death (barely-above-not-detailed); A few mentions of blackmail; A few mentions of tattoos; A couple mentions of coughing up blood; A couple mentions of someone in prison for selling alcohol; A mention of an attempted murder.
Sexual Content- three border-line barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed kisses; Remembering a kiss (barely-above-not-detailed); Touches, Hand Holding, Embraces, & Warmth (up to semi-detailed); Noticing (x2); a ‘vamp’; Mentions of a kiss & kissing; A few mentions of a man’s illegitimate birth; A few mentions of welcoming kisses & married couples kissing; A few mentions of reputations; A few mentions of blushes; A mention of cat calls & men gawking at women; Love, falling in love, & the emotions (x2);
*Note: Mentions of a couple not able to have biological children; A couple mentions of scandalous belly dancing.
-Rosamund Easling
-Armilda “Mable” Burton
-Colin Keary
P.O.V. switches between them
Set in 1926-1929 (Also skips to 1885, 1892-1893, 1904-1906, 1911-1912, 1920, & then the Epilogue is in 2002)
353 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- Two Stars
Early High School Teens- Three Stars
Older High School Teens- Four Stars
My personal Rating- Three Stars (and a half)
Very clean and set in an interesting environment, “The Ringmaster’s Wife” was a light and easy read. I enjoyed the light romance and all the historical facts about the Ringling Brothers’ circus.
This was my second book by this author and I definitely can feel her writing style. The places are always described in a winsome fashion and the characters always meet unique people through out the book. It was overall a very nice read and I enjoyed it. :)
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
April 1, 2017
I thought this was a beautiful book. I don't have time to write a review to do it justice, but I truly enjoyed the characters, the dual-historical time period, the historical facts about the Ringling Brothers, the circus, and most of all I loved the inspirational theme of chasing after our dreams and adventures and living them. Kristy Cambron did a really nice job with incorporating music and art appreciation into the story line too. I looked forward to reading this book for months and was very pleased with the experience I had while reading this wonderful novel.
August 10, 2021
Spanning from 1885 to 1929, Kristy Cambron’s latest title The Ringmaster’s Wife, pulls back the curtain of glamour and glitz to reveal the true nature of life under the Big Top. Readers are in for a treat as Cambron has penned a great adventure with a touch of mystery and a whole lot of heart.
In this immersive story I developed a great respect for Mabel Ringling. Her relationship and subsequent marriage to Circus King John Ringling came across as one of mutual love and respect. I admired Mabel’s wisdom and how her focus always seemed to be on people rather than the business. Mabel’s story is interwoven with that of a fictional character named Lady Rosamund Easling. From the moment Rosamund is recruited into the circus by Colin, the two share a special chemistry. Cumulatively their stories speak of bravely pursuing our dreams, forgiveness, and the freedom that is found in love.
With her departure from WWII historical fiction, Kristy Cambron offers fans another side of herself. The Ringmaster’s Wife struck me as more contemplative than her first two works. While at points it felt somber, the overall message is inspiring. The author deftly captures the vintage mystique of the Ringling Circus and infuses it with poignant interpersonal stories. Like the scenes that played out in my mind, I believe a movie adaptation would be stupendous! See for yourself by pre-ordering The Ringmaster’s Wife today (releases June 7th).
I received this book from the author for my honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
In this immersive story I developed a great respect for Mabel Ringling. Her relationship and subsequent marriage to Circus King John Ringling came across as one of mutual love and respect. I admired Mabel’s wisdom and how her focus always seemed to be on people rather than the business. Mabel’s story is interwoven with that of a fictional character named Lady Rosamund Easling. From the moment Rosamund is recruited into the circus by Colin, the two share a special chemistry. Cumulatively their stories speak of bravely pursuing our dreams, forgiveness, and the freedom that is found in love.
With her departure from WWII historical fiction, Kristy Cambron offers fans another side of herself. The Ringmaster’s Wife struck me as more contemplative than her first two works. While at points it felt somber, the overall message is inspiring. The author deftly captures the vintage mystique of the Ringling Circus and infuses it with poignant interpersonal stories. Like the scenes that played out in my mind, I believe a movie adaptation would be stupendous! See for yourself by pre-ordering The Ringmaster’s Wife today (releases June 7th).
I received this book from the author for my honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
June 6, 2016
Mostly a Downton Abbey-meets-Water for Elephants tale, with a hefty dose of Nancy Kerrigan/Tonya Harding drama thrown in, I was swept up into this backstage circus story from the opening scenes. I love how Cambron took time setting her stage, easing her heroine -- and me as the reader -- into the crazy world of the "Greatest Show on Earth." The title is a little misleading, as the true-life story of Mable Ringling takes a pronounced back seat to the fictional romance of heiress-turned-bareback-rider Rosamund and circus manager Colin. Mable was more of a fairy godmother quietly working throughout the lives of the fictional characters, with occasional flashback glimpses that surmised how she might have become that way. I loved the historical detail and backstage excitement of this story, and had to delve into the Kleenex on multiple occasions. The only thing I didn't like was the ending, when a story that had felt refreshingly original up to that point, veered blindly over a Wild Hearts Can't Be Broken, melodramatic cliff. Still, it was a very enjoyable story, and I'm looking forward to Kristy's next one!
April 3, 2018
I'm still digesting this book a little. The first time I read this through, it was my first introduction to the author. She immediately made me want to read more of her works. I was astonished by her writing style and way with words. You can feel and imagine everything! I applaud that immensely.
This story surrounding circus life was fascinating to me. Having recently watched an old film surrounding the life of the circus, I was curious to see if this book was anything similar. And it was. Just for a note here, I don't condone every aspect of a circus, even if life was different back in the 1920s. But I dearly love the excitement and thrill of circus life!
While there are two timelines in this story, I found my second time through to be so much clearer. The first time I read this I struggled with the plot. It felt like the scenes were thrown together and you didn't really know what the character wanted. But the second time through I understood the characters so much more. I think her style of writing has grown on me and I appreciated the way she described life so much better. I have one main gripe about this story, despite the beauty and uniqueness of it.
Since this book is classed as Christian I expected a little more than characters here and there only saying, "Thank God" and so forth. Toward the end there was a little bit more focus on God's grace, but it was very brief. None of the characters go to church or even mention church. Scripture passages or the Bible are never mentioned. The circus was the real thing for the characters...not a lot else.
This author inspires me in so many ways, and I love the sparkles she shows in life, even when life can be messy. Many characters leave their past to follow their dreams, and at first this bothered me a little. Sometimes leaving does not truly help...but then the end brought some truths to light that made those decisions much more real and it made me realize the author wasn't trying to focus on running away. Rather, she wanted to bring to life living each day to the fullest.
Romance wise...there were a few kisses before marriage, but nothing that made me uncomfortable. It was extremely clean and it is a book not soon forgotten once you've read it.
*I received this from the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
This story surrounding circus life was fascinating to me. Having recently watched an old film surrounding the life of the circus, I was curious to see if this book was anything similar. And it was. Just for a note here, I don't condone every aspect of a circus, even if life was different back in the 1920s. But I dearly love the excitement and thrill of circus life!
While there are two timelines in this story, I found my second time through to be so much clearer. The first time I read this I struggled with the plot. It felt like the scenes were thrown together and you didn't really know what the character wanted. But the second time through I understood the characters so much more. I think her style of writing has grown on me and I appreciated the way she described life so much better. I have one main gripe about this story, despite the beauty and uniqueness of it.
Since this book is classed as Christian I expected a little more than characters here and there only saying, "Thank God" and so forth. Toward the end there was a little bit more focus on God's grace, but it was very brief. None of the characters go to church or even mention church. Scripture passages or the Bible are never mentioned. The circus was the real thing for the characters...not a lot else.
This author inspires me in so many ways, and I love the sparkles she shows in life, even when life can be messy. Many characters leave their past to follow their dreams, and at first this bothered me a little. Sometimes leaving does not truly help...but then the end brought some truths to light that made those decisions much more real and it made me realize the author wasn't trying to focus on running away. Rather, she wanted to bring to life living each day to the fullest.
Romance wise...there were a few kisses before marriage, but nothing that made me uncomfortable. It was extremely clean and it is a book not soon forgotten once you've read it.
*I received this from the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
February 6, 2017
The Ringmaster's Wife is an emotion-filled story, rich with historical details, especially details of the Ringling Brothers circus amidst the glamour that was the Jazz Age. Featuring a dual timeline, and the story of two women, Mable Ringling and Lady Rosamund Easling, the novel spans the younger years of Mable's life before the circus is a part of her, up through Rosamund leaving her privileged life back in England to join the circus and the two meeting and connecting over a shared pursuit of a life well lived.
While I've read many dual-time novels, this one is unique in that both time lines are in the past. The way both story lines eventually meet up and connect characters, not just Mable and Rosamund is a really well-used device in this story. Mable is a character to be admired, and both she and Rosamund are the epitome of what it means to leave the comfort of the known and go after their true dreams.
I do think that this is more of a character-driven, introspective novel. While the plot has a few twists, for me, the novel shines most with it's rich details of life behind the scenes of the circus, as well as Mable's life with John Ringling. Her story served as a reminder that, despite loss and heartache, you can still have a well-lived life. Later it makes a nice comparison to the way that Rosamund chooses to react to a heartbreaking situation and the way she rises above it instead of letting bitterness take hold.
This also felt like a very timely read for me, since they recently announced that the Ringling Bros. circus would be shutting down after nearly 150 years.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher, which I chose to review. I was not required to write a positive review.
While I've read many dual-time novels, this one is unique in that both time lines are in the past. The way both story lines eventually meet up and connect characters, not just Mable and Rosamund is a really well-used device in this story. Mable is a character to be admired, and both she and Rosamund are the epitome of what it means to leave the comfort of the known and go after their true dreams.
I do think that this is more of a character-driven, introspective novel. While the plot has a few twists, for me, the novel shines most with it's rich details of life behind the scenes of the circus, as well as Mable's life with John Ringling. Her story served as a reminder that, despite loss and heartache, you can still have a well-lived life. Later it makes a nice comparison to the way that Rosamund chooses to react to a heartbreaking situation and the way she rises above it instead of letting bitterness take hold.
This also felt like a very timely read for me, since they recently announced that the Ringling Bros. circus would be shutting down after nearly 150 years.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher, which I chose to review. I was not required to write a positive review.
February 17, 2018
*wipes tears from eyes* This was truly beautiful.
It's a book full of nostalgia and wistful memories. Like an old, beloved, well-worn story tucked away and revisited often.
It breaks and mends your heart. Reminds you that grace is a gift given to all who are willing to accept it.
It's a story about freedom and dreams. About running towards your future and embracing the impossibilities.
It's about new beginnings and seeing people as they really are--broken, flawed, yet beautiful.
"We only see what we want to see--in people, in love, and in life. What we see is a choice, as is what we offer the world in return. And it's only behind the costumes and the masks that we can be who we truly are."
I am deeply moved, and I will be smiling every time I glance at this book's cover. Because it reminds me of grace. Freedom. Love. Dreams.
And those are things I need to cling to every single day of my life.
4 stars!
(This is my review for now, but a full one may come eventually. This is just what I felt needed to be said, right now. <3)
It's a book full of nostalgia and wistful memories. Like an old, beloved, well-worn story tucked away and revisited often.
It breaks and mends your heart. Reminds you that grace is a gift given to all who are willing to accept it.
It's a story about freedom and dreams. About running towards your future and embracing the impossibilities.
It's about new beginnings and seeing people as they really are--broken, flawed, yet beautiful.
"We only see what we want to see--in people, in love, and in life. What we see is a choice, as is what we offer the world in return. And it's only behind the costumes and the masks that we can be who we truly are."
I am deeply moved, and I will be smiling every time I glance at this book's cover. Because it reminds me of grace. Freedom. Love. Dreams.
And those are things I need to cling to every single day of my life.
4 stars!
(This is my review for now, but a full one may come eventually. This is just what I felt needed to be said, right now. <3)
March 17, 2017
A masterpiece of emotion and evocative storytelling, The Ringmaster's Wife's weaves together the fanciful notions and glamor of the circus amidst the rich tapestry of 1920s history. A superb story with vibrant characters, the sparkle of romance, and the power of courage.
I am lost to the thrills and magic of the circus. Please, don't send help. I want to stay here forever, trapped between the pages and avoiding the reality that I can't run off to the menagerie.
From the moment I opened this book I knew it was going to be special. I have long since been captivated by the circus and Kristy's fabulous writing drew to life every hope and dream within me. I saw the lights, smelled the molasses coated popcorn, and grew teary-eyed at the stunning performances.
I loved the juxtaposition of characters from sweet and determined Lady Rosamund Easling and Irishman Colin Keary in all of his manly fastidious, to Mable and John Ringling and their unique relationship. It felt like a multitude of stories wrapped up into one that painted a beautiful picture of how the Lord orchestrates lives together in ways we would not suspect.
Being a lover of all things from the turn-of-the-century Jazz Age, I appreciated the thorough research Kristy put into this book. I loved the addition of Walt Disney (though brief) and the history of Ca D'Zan. It's now on my travel list.
I urge you all to read this book if for no other reason than to lose yourself in the vibrant world of the circus and how two women's lives were radically affected by grace, hope, determination, and the power of courage. The history is organic to the story, the romance sweet and natural, and the plot will pull you through until the very end. A must read! Brava!
-------
I received a free copy of this book but was under no obligation to read the book or post a review. I do so under my own motivation and the opinions I have expressed in this review are honest and entirely my own.
I am lost to the thrills and magic of the circus. Please, don't send help. I want to stay here forever, trapped between the pages and avoiding the reality that I can't run off to the menagerie.
From the moment I opened this book I knew it was going to be special. I have long since been captivated by the circus and Kristy's fabulous writing drew to life every hope and dream within me. I saw the lights, smelled the molasses coated popcorn, and grew teary-eyed at the stunning performances.
I loved the juxtaposition of characters from sweet and determined Lady Rosamund Easling and Irishman Colin Keary in all of his manly fastidious, to Mable and John Ringling and their unique relationship. It felt like a multitude of stories wrapped up into one that painted a beautiful picture of how the Lord orchestrates lives together in ways we would not suspect.
Being a lover of all things from the turn-of-the-century Jazz Age, I appreciated the thorough research Kristy put into this book. I loved the addition of Walt Disney (though brief) and the history of Ca D'Zan. It's now on my travel list.
I urge you all to read this book if for no other reason than to lose yourself in the vibrant world of the circus and how two women's lives were radically affected by grace, hope, determination, and the power of courage. The history is organic to the story, the romance sweet and natural, and the plot will pull you through until the very end. A must read! Brava!
-------
I received a free copy of this book but was under no obligation to read the book or post a review. I do so under my own motivation and the opinions I have expressed in this review are honest and entirely my own.
July 6, 2018
This is a great book. I have always loved the circus, but I didn't know what went on behind the scenes. The circus is one large family that love each other and at times are jealous of each other. There is a lot of hard work that goes on behind the scenes. Traveling from state to state and city to city to setting up and breaking down the circus in a timely matter. There is always a top act that comes in to replace another top act. I love the way the author tells this story. It is about the life of Lady Rosamund who would have never ended up as a top circus act if her parents had not decided to sell her beautiful black Arabian horse that she loved with all of her heart to the Ringling Brothers Circus. It was a gift from her brother who later died at war. Also Colin became a very important part of the circus after Mable Ringling caught Colin pickpocketing her husband John Ringling and a friend. She demanded that Colin give the watch back that he had taken from her husband or she would turn him in to the police which were right across the street. Colin gave the watch back and while Mable was walking away he called her back and returned a wallet that he had also taken from John Ringling's friend. That is when she called out an address to Colin and told him to be there tomorrow morning to meet with her husband John if he wanted to start a new life. Her husband gave him a job at the circus starting at the bottom and he worked his way up to management as time passed. This is a true love story with good times and bad times which includes marriages, death, sickness, blindness, heart ache, sadness and accidents. The ending is fabulous. A must read. You will never look at the circus the same again.
December 27, 2016
After enjoying the Hidden Masterpieces novels, I completely looked forward to reading The Ringmaster's Wife. Unfortunately, this novel fell short for me.
What I loved about the novel is the rich history about circus life and a few other time period details. I was pleased that one of the main characters, Mable, is based upon an actual historical figure.
As with the Hidden Masterpieces novels, there are two story lines. What is different though is that the two story lines are fairly close chronologically and the story lines ultimately merge. This aspect of the novel was well done.
While I enjoy reading novels were some facts are given up front and others are hidden for later, I didn't feel it was effectively done in this novel. My engagement in the story didn't occur until around page 250. And even at that point it was rather light interest. This novel just didn't pull me in. I would have liked to know more about the families of Mable and Rosamund and their impact on or reaction to the paths they took.
While this novel was a miss for me, I look forward to author's next novel as I did enjoy her debut and sophomore works.
What I loved about the novel is the rich history about circus life and a few other time period details. I was pleased that one of the main characters, Mable, is based upon an actual historical figure.
As with the Hidden Masterpieces novels, there are two story lines. What is different though is that the two story lines are fairly close chronologically and the story lines ultimately merge. This aspect of the novel was well done.
While I enjoy reading novels were some facts are given up front and others are hidden for later, I didn't feel it was effectively done in this novel. My engagement in the story didn't occur until around page 250. And even at that point it was rather light interest. This novel just didn't pull me in. I would have liked to know more about the families of Mable and Rosamund and their impact on or reaction to the paths they took.
While this novel was a miss for me, I look forward to author's next novel as I did enjoy her debut and sophomore works.
June 9, 2017
5+ STARS
LOVED EVERY MINUTE OF THIS STORY
You can tell an excellent book when I devour it as fast as I did this one!
I mean this one had EVERYTHING I demand out of a good book...history, great writing, no smut, vivid descriptions, fast-paced, bite-size chapters...I mean I could go on and on!
I kinda wish I could go back and experience it for the first time ALL over again! What a ride. Such lovely, well-developed characters. So many beautiful moments. *sigh*
I loved just exactly how this book was laid out revealing certain details about a character's past and present in various alternating chapters making the reveals so much more surprising and emotional. (You'll love learning about Colin! So cool!)
Kristy Cambron is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors! She's really gifted! My first introduction to her was The Butterfly and the Violin, which quickly made it to my top favorite books, at the beginning of this year. I appreciate that there is no sensuality in her writing and love the slight "faith-in-God" undertones she introduces that is great for a Christian reader, like me. I've heard people warn other readers about Cambron's "secret-Jesus" books...but having a character express a moment of faith is no different than other author's having one character who is an overtly leftist, Reagan-bashing liberal (as in "Lillian Boxfish Takes a Walk") [which I did not care for that, for the record] or an adulterous cheater (as in "The Little Paris Bookshop") [which again, I did not care for] or an alcoholic or some other such behavior that not everyone "agrees" with or "practices" themselves...but yet authors create these characters and can make them whatever they want or if it's about an actual person..portray them as who they really were. We may not desire to be like a character personally but it doesn't mean the book is a complete bust or a waste because they were written to follow a different "religion" than you or were of a different political view...just some food for thought.
"The Ringmaster's Wife" is loosely based on Mable and John Ringling and Cambron takes the little details that are known about their life and paints us a beautiful picture. The actual circus performers and hands are for the most part invented but real persons of that time-period are mentioned in the story.
Seriously, if this is on your list, bump it up! It's a terrific tale and a quick read and will just leave you feeling warm and cozy during and even after it's done. :)
LOVED EVERY MINUTE OF THIS STORY
You can tell an excellent book when I devour it as fast as I did this one!
I mean this one had EVERYTHING I demand out of a good book...history, great writing, no smut, vivid descriptions, fast-paced, bite-size chapters...I mean I could go on and on!
I kinda wish I could go back and experience it for the first time ALL over again! What a ride. Such lovely, well-developed characters. So many beautiful moments. *sigh*
I loved just exactly how this book was laid out revealing certain details about a character's past and present in various alternating chapters making the reveals so much more surprising and emotional. (You'll love learning about Colin! So cool!)
Kristy Cambron is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors! She's really gifted! My first introduction to her was The Butterfly and the Violin, which quickly made it to my top favorite books, at the beginning of this year. I appreciate that there is no sensuality in her writing and love the slight "faith-in-God" undertones she introduces that is great for a Christian reader, like me. I've heard people warn other readers about Cambron's "secret-Jesus" books...but having a character express a moment of faith is no different than other author's having one character who is an overtly leftist, Reagan-bashing liberal (as in "Lillian Boxfish Takes a Walk") [which I did not care for that, for the record] or an adulterous cheater (as in "The Little Paris Bookshop") [which again, I did not care for] or an alcoholic or some other such behavior that not everyone "agrees" with or "practices" themselves...but yet authors create these characters and can make them whatever they want or if it's about an actual person..portray them as who they really were. We may not desire to be like a character personally but it doesn't mean the book is a complete bust or a waste because they were written to follow a different "religion" than you or were of a different political view...just some food for thought.
"The Ringmaster's Wife" is loosely based on Mable and John Ringling and Cambron takes the little details that are known about their life and paints us a beautiful picture. The actual circus performers and hands are for the most part invented but real persons of that time-period are mentioned in the story.
Seriously, if this is on your list, bump it up! It's a terrific tale and a quick read and will just leave you feeling warm and cozy during and even after it's done. :)
January 27, 2016
This book had me at circus, a topic after my own heart. I love a good circus story. I'll even settle for an average one. This was very much the latter. In fact I think had the book been on any other subject, I wouldn't care for it at all. The writing alone just doesn't hold up, it's redolent of chicklit with all its frothy chirpy bland charm straight down to the lachrymose ending. The author did well by selecting a fascinating topic, two strong female characters, real life and imaginary, and magical setting. Those attributes carry the book along enough to overlook the narrative's shortcomings for the most part. Lovely cover art too. This is the sort of book that isn't good or great, it's nice. If nice if the adjective that works for you when selecting reading material, this is perfect. If circus life swoons you, this might be worth the time. Otherwise, it's more along the lines of a romance novel in quality. Very quick read too. Thanks Netgalley.
July 10, 2016
I just want to start by saying how much I love the cover of this book. It's amazing! I really like the premise for this story. I've always enjoyed circus themed books and movies. I liked how the story starts out in England then goes to the U.S. The scenes were vivid and easy to imagine but for some reason I had trouble connecting with Mabel and Rose. I kept hoping I would feel more for the characters but it just didn't happen for me that's why I gave 4 stars.
August 8, 2022
Wonderful love story of two different couples, and a captivating inside look of the early ringling bros circus. Perfect for lovers of historical fiction set in the 1920's. Also has faith elements as well.
August 14, 2022
Wish I would have written a review soon after finishing. 5 stars, though, and it earned a coveted spot on my keepsake bookshelf. 😀
January 20, 2017
There are two circus queens in this historical novel: a bareback performer and a wife. The book splits into chapters of their stories. We begin with Mabel, a young lady from a farming town with big city aspirations. When a move to Chicago puts her in the sights of one John Ringling, her life seems likes it's just beginning.
The other half of the story involves Rosemund, the daughter of an English Earl, who is also a secret trick rider. After her prized Arabian is sold, she is lured to the States.
Their journeys to find peace run parallel to each other, finding supportive, compassionate men and learning to live freely in grace.
Personal note: a character with consumption is sent to Waverly Hills, a former TB sanitarium in Louisville, KY now a nationally known haunted house. I have spent the night there. I have photos on my Facebook profile. It's about 20 minutes from where I live, an absolutely gorgeous gothic building.
I rate this book a 3.5. The characters of Rosamund and Colin did not exist. Little is actually known of Mabel's personal life as she approved no photographs and gave no interviews. I loosely consider this historical fiction. I like mine to be more fact based. The author, however, does weave an inspiring tale of "seeing what you want" if only one keeps her eyes open.
The other half of the story involves Rosemund, the daughter of an English Earl, who is also a secret trick rider. After her prized Arabian is sold, she is lured to the States.
Their journeys to find peace run parallel to each other, finding supportive, compassionate men and learning to live freely in grace.
Personal note: a character with consumption is sent to Waverly Hills, a former TB sanitarium in Louisville, KY now a nationally known haunted house. I have spent the night there. I have photos on my Facebook profile. It's about 20 minutes from where I live, an absolutely gorgeous gothic building.
I rate this book a 3.5. The characters of Rosamund and Colin did not exist. Little is actually known of Mabel's personal life as she approved no photographs and gave no interviews. I loosely consider this historical fiction. I like mine to be more fact based. The author, however, does weave an inspiring tale of "seeing what you want" if only one keeps her eyes open.
June 27, 2016
Impeccably researched, gorgeously presented, The Ringmaster’s Wife is my favorite book by Kristy Cambron to date. (And I have LOVED her previous books!) In fact, it’s difficult for me to form adequate words to review it because it’s still so full in my heart.
For the majority of the novel, we dance back and forth between Mable’s early life (and the beginnings of her relationship with John Ringling) and Rosamund’s early days with the circus. As the narrative progresses, Cambron weaves these timelines together in seamless – and exquisite – perfection until their lives are linked and their stories merge.
In between and all around, we are treated to the sights and sounds and smells of the Chicago World’s Fair, an Atlantic City pier, and a Jazz Age circus. Cambron’s attention to detail, to history, to setting brings each of these elements vividly and poignantly to life. Colin and Rosamund are each such wonderful representations of redemption and grace, and the subplot of their romance (while mostly in the background) made my heart smile. Mable and John’s story, as imagined by Cambron, has piqued my interest in their actual historical lives and I foresee some nonfiction reading in my future.
The Ringmaster’s Wife by Kristy Cambron is a book to savor. It’s a book to curl up with and curl up into, letting each word settle in your heart as you allow the story to sweep you away. Adventure, thrills, romance, suspense, and friendship soar through this novel with the greatest of ease, thanks to Cambron’s exquisite talent, and the rich history that unfolds so creatively will both entertain and intrigue. The Jazz Age is decidedly not my favorite historical setting for fiction, but if they were all as gorgeously done as The Ringmaster’s Wife I may have to eat my words.
(I received a copy of this book in exchange for only my honest review.)
Read my full review at Reading Is My SuperPower
For the majority of the novel, we dance back and forth between Mable’s early life (and the beginnings of her relationship with John Ringling) and Rosamund’s early days with the circus. As the narrative progresses, Cambron weaves these timelines together in seamless – and exquisite – perfection until their lives are linked and their stories merge.
In between and all around, we are treated to the sights and sounds and smells of the Chicago World’s Fair, an Atlantic City pier, and a Jazz Age circus. Cambron’s attention to detail, to history, to setting brings each of these elements vividly and poignantly to life. Colin and Rosamund are each such wonderful representations of redemption and grace, and the subplot of their romance (while mostly in the background) made my heart smile. Mable and John’s story, as imagined by Cambron, has piqued my interest in their actual historical lives and I foresee some nonfiction reading in my future.
The Ringmaster’s Wife by Kristy Cambron is a book to savor. It’s a book to curl up with and curl up into, letting each word settle in your heart as you allow the story to sweep you away. Adventure, thrills, romance, suspense, and friendship soar through this novel with the greatest of ease, thanks to Cambron’s exquisite talent, and the rich history that unfolds so creatively will both entertain and intrigue. The Jazz Age is decidedly not my favorite historical setting for fiction, but if they were all as gorgeously done as The Ringmaster’s Wife I may have to eat my words.
(I received a copy of this book in exchange for only my honest review.)
Read my full review at Reading Is My SuperPower
January 22, 2017
A great work of historical fiction, and especially timely, given that the Ringling Bros. circus just announced their performances are coming to an end.
June 2, 2023
I loved this book.
The setting, the characters , and the story were all amazing👌
The only reason I did not rate it five stars was because there were points in the story where I got confused, and there were certain things that kind of took me out of the story and some other things that bugged me a about certain characters.
but over all I thoroughly enjoyed my time with this book and would recommend.
The story definitely holds a special place in my heart 🥰.
The setting, the characters , and the story were all amazing👌
The only reason I did not rate it five stars was because there were points in the story where I got confused, and there were certain things that kind of took me out of the story and some other things that bugged me a about certain characters.
but over all I thoroughly enjoyed my time with this book and would recommend.
The story definitely holds a special place in my heart 🥰.
Read
June 30, 2016Why I Choose this Book:
I've read Kristy Cambron's other two books and really liked one of them, and was rather disappointed in the other. I figured I had a 50/50 chance on either really liking or feeling "meh" about her third book.
What I Thought About this Book:
Humm... I think I've done so much editing recently that I'm having a hard time just appreciating a book, so please keep that in mind throughout this review.
Scene by scene I enjoyed the book. There were some beautiful word pictures, the setting was fairly well developed, and there wasn't questionable content (yay!). The characters also started out with promise.
Unfortunately, the story didn't exactly make sense to me. It felt disjointed, as if a bunch of scenes were thrown together to create a partial story that didn't have much of a plot line I kept waiting for a lightbulb moment to go off and have everything make sense, but that never happened. There was a slight lightbulb moment around page 330, that if it would have been at page 30, it would have totally changed the trajectory of the book and would have made a huge difference. Since that didn't happen though, the book was a fail for me.
Conclusion:
I've seen a lot of 4 and 5 star reviews floating around for this book, which means my assessment isn't very popular and therefore you probably shouldn't take my word for it. Instead, y'all should read some other reviews and see what other readers are saying about the book.
Rating:
I'm giving The Ringmaster's Wife 3 stars out of 5, and 4 stars out of 10.
*I received this book free from Litfuse in exchange for an honest review*
I've read Kristy Cambron's other two books and really liked one of them, and was rather disappointed in the other. I figured I had a 50/50 chance on either really liking or feeling "meh" about her third book.
What I Thought About this Book:
Humm... I think I've done so much editing recently that I'm having a hard time just appreciating a book, so please keep that in mind throughout this review.
Scene by scene I enjoyed the book. There were some beautiful word pictures, the setting was fairly well developed, and there wasn't questionable content (yay!). The characters also started out with promise.
Unfortunately, the story didn't exactly make sense to me. It felt disjointed, as if a bunch of scenes were thrown together to create a partial story that didn't have much of a plot line I kept waiting for a lightbulb moment to go off and have everything make sense, but that never happened. There was a slight lightbulb moment around page 330, that if it would have been at page 30, it would have totally changed the trajectory of the book and would have made a huge difference. Since that didn't happen though, the book was a fail for me.
Conclusion:
I've seen a lot of 4 and 5 star reviews floating around for this book, which means my assessment isn't very popular and therefore you probably shouldn't take my word for it. Instead, y'all should read some other reviews and see what other readers are saying about the book.
Rating:
I'm giving The Ringmaster's Wife 3 stars out of 5, and 4 stars out of 10.
*I received this book free from Litfuse in exchange for an honest review*
November 10, 2017
by Andrea Renee Cox
Memories of attending the circus as a young girl came flooding back into my mind as I read The Ringmaster's Wife. The acrobats, the ringmaster, the horses and their riders... all came to life in this book about second chances and fresh starts.
For much of the first half of the book, I was confused by the constant time jumping and multiple dates given. It was a lot to keep track of. But once that settled out some, I was able to really get intrigued by the lives of Mable Ringling and Rosamund Easling, not to mention the interesting world of the circus.
I was disappointed by one thing in particular, which was a singular inappropriate usage of God's name. This is why I have given three, rather than four, stars.
However, the story was greatly meaningful and quite adventuresome. It's one that will stick with me for a long time. The power in those final three chapters was undeniable. (If you haven't got tissues handy, you may want to track some down before you get that far into the story.) Overall, The Ringmaster's Wife is a wonderful tale of offering grace when it isn't deserved or expected, loving people through difficult attitudes and circumstances, and finding the true purpose for the life you choose to live.
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, authors, and sites like Netgalley, Litfuse Publicity Group, and Blogging for Books. They do not require me to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Memories of attending the circus as a young girl came flooding back into my mind as I read The Ringmaster's Wife. The acrobats, the ringmaster, the horses and their riders... all came to life in this book about second chances and fresh starts.
For much of the first half of the book, I was confused by the constant time jumping and multiple dates given. It was a lot to keep track of. But once that settled out some, I was able to really get intrigued by the lives of Mable Ringling and Rosamund Easling, not to mention the interesting world of the circus.
I was disappointed by one thing in particular, which was a singular inappropriate usage of God's name. This is why I have given three, rather than four, stars.
However, the story was greatly meaningful and quite adventuresome. It's one that will stick with me for a long time. The power in those final three chapters was undeniable. (If you haven't got tissues handy, you may want to track some down before you get that far into the story.) Overall, The Ringmaster's Wife is a wonderful tale of offering grace when it isn't deserved or expected, loving people through difficult attitudes and circumstances, and finding the true purpose for the life you choose to live.
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, authors, and sites like Netgalley, Litfuse Publicity Group, and Blogging for Books. They do not require me to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
July 7, 2016
I'm a fan of all of Kristy Cambron's novels, but I fell in love with Cambron's writing as I read The Ringmaster's Wife. Cambron's characters are true to life and distinct, and the emotions resonated within me. While The Ringmaster's Wife is fiction, it's evident Cambron did extensive research on the Jazz Age and world of the Ringling Brothers' Circus -- both under the Big Top and behind the scenes. I highly recommend this novel!
February 23, 2017
History and fiction seamlessly merge in this circus tale that brings an era to life. I enjoyed the dual point of view that shares the stories of two brave women. It is nice to find such an unusual period of history covered in novel form!
July 9, 2017
This was the first book I've read by Kristy Cambron and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
I loved the dual historic timeline, flipping from Mable Burton Ringling to Lady Rosamund Easling. It gave me a good background and understanding of both characters.
At times, I felt the details were a little overly extravagant for the story, taking away from the story itself and the beginning was a little slow for me, but as the story continued I fell into the magic of the circus life and felt myself drawn into the 1920s tale. Getting a taste of the Ringling Brothers circus was a treat and I enjoyed reading about the behind the scenes intricacies and how the show came to be.
I definitely recommend reading this story and I will be adding Kristy Cambron to my list of good authors.
I loved the dual historic timeline, flipping from Mable Burton Ringling to Lady Rosamund Easling. It gave me a good background and understanding of both characters.
At times, I felt the details were a little overly extravagant for the story, taking away from the story itself and the beginning was a little slow for me, but as the story continued I fell into the magic of the circus life and felt myself drawn into the 1920s tale. Getting a taste of the Ringling Brothers circus was a treat and I enjoyed reading about the behind the scenes intricacies and how the show came to be.
I definitely recommend reading this story and I will be adding Kristy Cambron to my list of good authors.
March 13, 2017
This was a very beautifully written novel! It was the first book that I have read by this author and I really enjoyed her writing style. For the first few chapters, I had to work very hard to keep the dual timelines and characters straight. But after getting to know the characters, it was not a problem to time hop through this dual timeline story. In fact, it kept me reading to find out what would happen next!
The pacing of the story was leisurely. It was slow, but not in a bad way. As I moved through the book, I appreciated the way the author introduced sections of the story in a gentle way and then hopped to the other timeline and did the same. I guess this could frustrate some readers, but I really liked it.
The characters and love stories that developed in both timelines were great. I definitely felt connected to John, Mable, Colin, and Rosamund and hoped for the best for them. The Ringmaster’s Wife kept me turning the pages and invested in the lives of these characters!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
The pacing of the story was leisurely. It was slow, but not in a bad way. As I moved through the book, I appreciated the way the author introduced sections of the story in a gentle way and then hopped to the other timeline and did the same. I guess this could frustrate some readers, but I really liked it.
The characters and love stories that developed in both timelines were great. I definitely felt connected to John, Mable, Colin, and Rosamund and hoped for the best for them. The Ringmaster’s Wife kept me turning the pages and invested in the lives of these characters!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
April 18, 2017
Focusing on the Ringling Brothers Circus, Kristy Cambron beautifully interweaves two time periods that sometimes connect and then diverge to create a fascinating read. The details regarding the circus show Cambron's definite research into the history of the Ringling Brothers Circus.
I felt the strongest characters were the women particularly Mable and Rosamund. They were both complex, dream-filled women who, although their lives were all right, weren't satisfied with the status quo. They were willing to step out of their comfort zones in order to capture their dreams. Colin was a wonderful hero. Plagued by his past, he couldn't see his future; but rather felt he had to spend his days atoning for his mistakes. I loved that Mable and Rose were able to open his eyes to what the future could be. All of the characters both animal and human who filled the circus just added to the depth of this story.
A wonderful read that ranks along side Cambron's other books. Any reader of historical fiction would enjoy this book.
FAVORITE QUOTES: "Because you found something far more precious than gold....You found love. It's genuine and warm and everything I'd always looked for. And I know that God has shown you favor because you prized something far more worthy than the rest of us."
"It's the worst kind of extravagance to think we're above adversity. Isn't that what God calls of us, to acknowledge that we are moving with this undercurrent of something that is always at work around us? Something bigger than we could ever be as just one person?"
"Love is patient, Rosamund. It has to be. It is kind. And never self-serving. And because of that, we can't expect everything to be in our timing. What would be the adventure in that? Instead, it is in the knitting of lives and hearts together."
I felt the strongest characters were the women particularly Mable and Rosamund. They were both complex, dream-filled women who, although their lives were all right, weren't satisfied with the status quo. They were willing to step out of their comfort zones in order to capture their dreams. Colin was a wonderful hero. Plagued by his past, he couldn't see his future; but rather felt he had to spend his days atoning for his mistakes. I loved that Mable and Rose were able to open his eyes to what the future could be. All of the characters both animal and human who filled the circus just added to the depth of this story.
A wonderful read that ranks along side Cambron's other books. Any reader of historical fiction would enjoy this book.
FAVORITE QUOTES: "Because you found something far more precious than gold....You found love. It's genuine and warm and everything I'd always looked for. And I know that God has shown you favor because you prized something far more worthy than the rest of us."
"It's the worst kind of extravagance to think we're above adversity. Isn't that what God calls of us, to acknowledge that we are moving with this undercurrent of something that is always at work around us? Something bigger than we could ever be as just one person?"
"Love is patient, Rosamund. It has to be. It is kind. And never self-serving. And because of that, we can't expect everything to be in our timing. What would be the adventure in that? Instead, it is in the knitting of lives and hearts together."
August 22, 2016
I picked this book up from NetGalley, thinking it sounded good based on the description. The daughter of an earl decides that the arranged marriage kind of life is not for her, and she joins the circus. Heck yeah. Strong female character, English gentry, etc. Sounded right up my alley. Unfortunately, I struggled to connect with any of these characters.
There was so much description--paragraphs and paragraphs--that in a literary book I might have enjoyed, but here just felt overdone and dragged out the minimal action in the scene. What was worse was that of the two main female characters, neither were very memorable. However, the more minor of the two (John Ringling's wife) was actually the more sympathetic and interesting character. The problem was that there wasn't enough time spent actually developing that character.
Add to that the overdone and rather unbelievable plot against Rosamund's life, and I was completely irritated by the way this book ended. What felt like a lighthearted romance in the beginning tried to turn into a mystery by the end, only it didn't work for me. The characters' motives were unbelievable, and the way Rosamund and Colin reacted to the murder plot was verging on unbelievable for me as well. I just didn't buy it, and I lost patience with the story itself.
I was overall disappointed in this book. Coming across as overdramatic at times, this story would have been stronger had it been told in one POV. As it was, this book tried to accomplish too much, and thus did too little.
Thanks to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Publishers for the advance review copy!
July 7, 2016
There are some novels where five stars are not nearly enough. The Ringmaster’s Wife is just such a book.
I could not put this story down. Work was neglected, household chores weren’t even a figment of a thought and all I could do was turn page after intriguing page. The language drew me into the story with a tender hand hold and wouldn’t let me go. The characters wrapped their way around my heart and whispered their story with command and grace. The description, oh the description that took me into the Big Top and into the world of a circus from an exciting and frightening decade of change.
A few paltry words of my own are a pitiful attempt to say what all I loved and why I couldn’t dare stop reading. The moments in between were long and filled with thoughts of revisiting this circus, to find out what would happen with beloved Rosamund and Colin, John and Mable.
A circus story of yesteryear with so, so much more to offer the reader. But ultimately a tale that will twine it’s way around your heart and refuse to part. An absolute favorite.
I could not put this story down. Work was neglected, household chores weren’t even a figment of a thought and all I could do was turn page after intriguing page. The language drew me into the story with a tender hand hold and wouldn’t let me go. The characters wrapped their way around my heart and whispered their story with command and grace. The description, oh the description that took me into the Big Top and into the world of a circus from an exciting and frightening decade of change.
A few paltry words of my own are a pitiful attempt to say what all I loved and why I couldn’t dare stop reading. The moments in between were long and filled with thoughts of revisiting this circus, to find out what would happen with beloved Rosamund and Colin, John and Mable.
A circus story of yesteryear with so, so much more to offer the reader. But ultimately a tale that will twine it’s way around your heart and refuse to part. An absolute favorite.
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