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Cirque #1
Cirque: Act I
A boy looked in a window, to see a naughty show
Through the pane of pain, the master clown did blow
The circus is a holy tent, the keeper of my rhyme
Where I forged my chains, creating this pantomime
Pretending to be normal, I wait until after dark
Then I paint the frown on, get a whore from the park
At the bottom of that bed was a darling in a chest
She watched with big eyes, horror hooking her from rest
She dances for the maniac, twirling on her strings
I will make her mine, sharing damaged things
I will be her riddle, she will help me grin
So why does she run away, she has to let me in
No one loves the clown, not even the midget
We’ve gone too far, she will know my secret
Love can break the hardest mask, I know this to be true
Nightmares have hearts too, I only needed you
Through the pane of pain, the master clown did blow
The circus is a holy tent, the keeper of my rhyme
Where I forged my chains, creating this pantomime
Pretending to be normal, I wait until after dark
Then I paint the frown on, get a whore from the park
At the bottom of that bed was a darling in a chest
She watched with big eyes, horror hooking her from rest
She dances for the maniac, twirling on her strings
I will make her mine, sharing damaged things
I will be her riddle, she will help me grin
So why does she run away, she has to let me in
No one loves the clown, not even the midget
We’ve gone too far, she will know my secret
Love can break the hardest mask, I know this to be true
Nightmares have hearts too, I only needed you
260 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 13, 2016
63 people are currently reading
797 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 179 reviews
September 20, 2016
Right off the bat A. Giannoccaro is getting five stars just for creeping me the hell out.
It's no big secret I don't do clowns, not in movies and certainly not in books. Yet here I am reading Cirque. One hair raising page at a time, completely intrigued, horrified and entranced. My partner in crime and buddy read Kirsten; asked me to share the experience. I couldn't get on the horror band wagon fast enough.
So as Sivan smears his white facial paint over his face and blacken his beady eyes hiding all the secrets he doesn't want the world knowing about. I'm chewing my finger nails down to nubs knowing any minute the other shoe is going to drop and it does with trapeze artist Sam.
Some will say Cirque: Act 1 is not that bad or even scary and I really don't care. For me this had a dark sinister quality, highly intense and damn sure not for the feint of heart. No there's no gore or murderous rampage, just one highly induced reviewer dealing with her phobia.
The author does amazing job making the story real and connecting the characters. Her writing was utterly flawless as she teased my nerves, enticing me to keep going....enjoy!
It's no big secret I don't do clowns, not in movies and certainly not in books. Yet here I am reading Cirque. One hair raising page at a time, completely intrigued, horrified and entranced. My partner in crime and buddy read Kirsten; asked me to share the experience. I couldn't get on the horror band wagon fast enough.
So as Sivan smears his white facial paint over his face and blacken his beady eyes hiding all the secrets he doesn't want the world knowing about. I'm chewing my finger nails down to nubs knowing any minute the other shoe is going to drop and it does with trapeze artist Sam.
Some will say Cirque: Act 1 is not that bad or even scary and I really don't care. For me this had a dark sinister quality, highly intense and damn sure not for the feint of heart. No there's no gore or murderous rampage, just one highly induced reviewer dealing with her phobia.
The author does amazing job making the story real and connecting the characters. Her writing was utterly flawless as she teased my nerves, enticing me to keep going....enjoy!
September 22, 2016
5 "No one loves a clown" stars!!!
Always looking for something unique, I'm so glad I was to able read this one. I absolutely loved it!
Ever since he was a teenager, and Sivan caught a real live sex act through a trailer window at the circus, it's not only become his obsession, but also his fetish, and of course his deepest secret. Seeing a powerful man, a clown albeit, be able to take from a beautiful and sad woman changed Sivan forever.
He's perfected the look and has transformed his garage into a sort of circus sanctuary, where he can act out his greatest fantasy. He has only been able to have sexual encounters via role play advertisements as his clown.
His persona is so ingrained that he cannot have a normal relationship.
Until her.
A friend of his sister who performs at a burlesque club with a circus-themed act.
And it all started to fall into place.
Or so he thought.
When his buried secret starts to come out, how can this woman love Sivan when her greatest fear is his hidden alter ego?
I've been highly anticipating anything new from A. Giannoccaro. She is my kind of author and ever since her making a good read for me, I was all on board with this one. The blurb was perfection.
Now I know most of you probably won't read this, as a lot people have coulrophobia (fear of clowns). But I'm telling you, it was a fantastic and interesting story for me. I, personally, thought the creep-factor was low, but I do want to stress my limits are almost nonexistent.
Cirque was not only an intriguing and atypical storyline, I also was immersed in the vivid imagery that the author portrayed. She has a knack for detail and arousing your senses.
The greatest part about this book was my feelings for our hero, Sivan. I simply adored him. His life didn't seem to be much of a life at all. Knowing that his secret would be frowned upon and always paranoid that someone would find out, kept Sivan distant and forever longing to be comfortable in his own skin. My heart went out to him and I am rooting for him to get a HEA of sorts.
This was a sad yet thought-provoking story about struggling with who you are and what feels right when going against the grain of what people define as "normal". Have an open mind about this one. I think it puts things into perspective.
If you are looking for an unconventional read and like your books to veer towards the darker side, maybe give this a shot. I enjoyed this very much, and highly anticipating Act II, this intermission between books is going to suck!
BR with Elfina. Girl, I know you like the messed up read, but I would have never asked you to join knowing you don't like clowns. I hope you don't lose too much sleep trying to power through this with me. xoxox
Always looking for something unique, I'm so glad I was to able read this one. I absolutely loved it!
Ever since he was a teenager, and Sivan caught a real live sex act through a trailer window at the circus, it's not only become his obsession, but also his fetish, and of course his deepest secret. Seeing a powerful man, a clown albeit, be able to take from a beautiful and sad woman changed Sivan forever.
He's perfected the look and has transformed his garage into a sort of circus sanctuary, where he can act out his greatest fantasy. He has only been able to have sexual encounters via role play advertisements as his clown.
I don't have anyone because I have a secret.
Secrets make relationships, even friendships, hard, because we cannot be ourselves.
His persona is so ingrained that he cannot have a normal relationship.
Until her.
A friend of his sister who performs at a burlesque club with a circus-themed act.
And it all started to fall into place.
...she makes me feel like I am living in my world even when I'm not.
She makes him come alive without the paint and I'm scared of what that means.
Or so he thought.
When his buried secret starts to come out, how can this woman love Sivan when her greatest fear is his hidden alter ego?
I've been highly anticipating anything new from A. Giannoccaro. She is my kind of author and ever since her making a good read for me, I was all on board with this one. The blurb was perfection.
Now I know most of you probably won't read this, as a lot people have coulrophobia (fear of clowns). But I'm telling you, it was a fantastic and interesting story for me. I, personally, thought the creep-factor was low, but I do want to stress my limits are almost nonexistent.
Cirque was not only an intriguing and atypical storyline, I also was immersed in the vivid imagery that the author portrayed. She has a knack for detail and arousing your senses.
The greatest part about this book was my feelings for our hero, Sivan. I simply adored him. His life didn't seem to be much of a life at all. Knowing that his secret would be frowned upon and always paranoid that someone would find out, kept Sivan distant and forever longing to be comfortable in his own skin. My heart went out to him and I am rooting for him to get a HEA of sorts.
This was a sad yet thought-provoking story about struggling with who you are and what feels right when going against the grain of what people define as "normal". Have an open mind about this one. I think it puts things into perspective.
If you are looking for an unconventional read and like your books to veer towards the darker side, maybe give this a shot. I enjoyed this very much, and highly anticipating Act II, this intermission between books is going to suck!
BR with Elfina. Girl, I know you like the messed up read, but I would have never asked you to join knowing you don't like clowns. I hope you don't lose too much sleep trying to power through this with me. xoxox
March 9, 2019
What a fascinating story, totally out-of-the-box awesomeness!
The mask one wears to hide the demons that desire to takeover. What's hiding in your closet?
If you've read Ashleigh Giannoccaro before then be prepared to witness her diversity. She went completely out of the norm, her norm, to present complexity and intrigue. This one is mild in comparison to her other books, but still contains the grit, you can't look away. If clowns aren't your thing... I suggest taking a shot, because you might find yourself loving the clown. A little boy who's interest was piqued, one dark, twisted night at the circus, the fire was lit, a need that controls his ability to relate to others. Intimacy never to be found and lust that can never be fulfilled. Until Imogene. Will he let his clown come out to play?
"She has set something off in my mind and I dance a dangerous tango with the memories, the desires and reality."
"Steal her, steal her take her to your circus Clown. Make her love you."
Imogene - plagued by her past, the box contains all her secrets. The Circus is in her blood, her nightmares. Will she join the circus of two or chase her next act of solitude?
I had my thoughts going into this book, but I was blindsided by the originality and the feels it brought on. I felt this sadness take over while reading, I wanted to put make-up on, jump into the book, and I wanted to chase the clown. Totally crazy, I know. There's secrets yet to unfold and I'm dying to see what's to come. Act 1 felt like the first time seeing a circus act, I'm guessing Act 2 is going to be the main attraction.
The mask one wears to hide the demons that desire to takeover. What's hiding in your closet?
If you've read Ashleigh Giannoccaro before then be prepared to witness her diversity. She went completely out of the norm, her norm, to present complexity and intrigue. This one is mild in comparison to her other books, but still contains the grit, you can't look away. If clowns aren't your thing... I suggest taking a shot, because you might find yourself loving the clown. A little boy who's interest was piqued, one dark, twisted night at the circus, the fire was lit, a need that controls his ability to relate to others. Intimacy never to be found and lust that can never be fulfilled. Until Imogene. Will he let his clown come out to play?
"She has set something off in my mind and I dance a dangerous tango with the memories, the desires and reality."
"Steal her, steal her take her to your circus Clown. Make her love you."
Imogene - plagued by her past, the box contains all her secrets. The Circus is in her blood, her nightmares. Will she join the circus of two or chase her next act of solitude?
I had my thoughts going into this book, but I was blindsided by the originality and the feels it brought on. I felt this sadness take over while reading, I wanted to put make-up on, jump into the book, and I wanted to chase the clown. Totally crazy, I know. There's secrets yet to unfold and I'm dying to see what's to come. Act 1 felt like the first time seeing a circus act, I'm guessing Act 2 is going to be the main attraction.
August 17, 2016
I absolutely loved this book!! The author did a great job of setting a scene so that you were right there in the book feeling/hearing/smelling every detail. She made me love the clown and my heart hurt for him. I loved that she told this in an absolutely fresh, modern, and unpredictable way!
"I am him, I am the clown, and no one loves the clown."
Oh, hush, Sivan. Everyone loves you after reading Cirque! Can't wait to read more!
"I am him, I am the clown, and no one loves the clown."
Oh, hush, Sivan. Everyone loves you after reading Cirque! Can't wait to read more!
September 16, 2017
**ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review**
"This is my circus and she is my star act, I'm always just the sad clown who makes them happy."
I just knew I had to read this book the moment I saw the cover. Also I already read a previous book by the author and was intrigued by her dark and twisted mind. I'm always looking for unique books that push boundaries and are so different than your ordinary romance books. By reading the blurb you don't really get a clear idea of what to expect, and I advise you to just go in blind.
"I'm drawn to the man with the painted face in a sick sort of way, a way that makes my stomach knot and turn."
If someone asked me to describe this book in one word, I would say INTENSE. I can't really put it the book in a particular genre. It was creepy, dark, erotic and mysterious. I had no idea what would happen and that is what I loved the most about this book.
"Steal her, steal her, take her to your circus Clown. Make her love you."
The day Sivan sees a clown at a circus he comes obsessed with him. He wants to become him. Clown is inside of him and wants to be unleashed. Sivan is living a double life but his need to become Clown is becoming stronger and stronger each day, especially after he meets Imogene, his sister's friend. The two main characters both have dark secrets that they hide from everyone. I loved that this book was dual POV, because it gives a great insight into what is going on in both of their minds.
"There is a dark, dirty skeleton hanging in his wardrobe, and I want to pull it out and see how it looks in daylight."
I hate clowns. Like many people my fear for clowns started after watching Stephen King's IT at a pretty young age. However I love anything horror. Horror is my favorite movie genre. I just love anything creepy, dark and scary. The author made it possible for me to actually fall for Sivan. I am so intrigued by him, I just couldn't get enough of him. It was heartbreaking to see how much he was struggling with himself, and the same goes for Imogene. Both are such broken characters. The writing was really good, I was hooked and couldn't put this book down. I need Act 2 NOW!
"This is my circus and she is my star act, I'm always just the sad clown who makes them happy."
I just knew I had to read this book the moment I saw the cover. Also I already read a previous book by the author and was intrigued by her dark and twisted mind. I'm always looking for unique books that push boundaries and are so different than your ordinary romance books. By reading the blurb you don't really get a clear idea of what to expect, and I advise you to just go in blind.
"I'm drawn to the man with the painted face in a sick sort of way, a way that makes my stomach knot and turn."
If someone asked me to describe this book in one word, I would say INTENSE. I can't really put it the book in a particular genre. It was creepy, dark, erotic and mysterious. I had no idea what would happen and that is what I loved the most about this book.
"Steal her, steal her, take her to your circus Clown. Make her love you."
The day Sivan sees a clown at a circus he comes obsessed with him. He wants to become him. Clown is inside of him and wants to be unleashed. Sivan is living a double life but his need to become Clown is becoming stronger and stronger each day, especially after he meets Imogene, his sister's friend. The two main characters both have dark secrets that they hide from everyone. I loved that this book was dual POV, because it gives a great insight into what is going on in both of their minds.
"There is a dark, dirty skeleton hanging in his wardrobe, and I want to pull it out and see how it looks in daylight."
I hate clowns. Like many people my fear for clowns started after watching Stephen King's IT at a pretty young age. However I love anything horror. Horror is my favorite movie genre. I just love anything creepy, dark and scary. The author made it possible for me to actually fall for Sivan. I am so intrigued by him, I just couldn't get enough of him. It was heartbreaking to see how much he was struggling with himself, and the same goes for Imogene. Both are such broken characters. The writing was really good, I was hooked and couldn't put this book down. I need Act 2 NOW!
March 30, 2023
AMAZING! ASTONISHING! INCREDIBLE! BREATHTAKING! BRILLIANT! EXTRAORDINARY and every other synonym of amazing.
I read this book in just 5 rounds in less than 2 months. Both of those are personal records. The writing is my second favorite thing about this book. Both characters describe their lives in details, everything they do, see and feel creating a movie that played more effortlessly in my head than most books.
5 stars just doesn't seem like enough. Luckily for me the intermission won't be too long. Starting on Act 2 right this second.
I read this book in just 5 rounds in less than 2 months. Both of those are personal records. The writing is my second favorite thing about this book. Both characters describe their lives in details, everything they do, see and feel creating a movie that played more effortlessly in my head than most books.
5 stars just doesn't seem like enough. Luckily for me the intermission won't be too long. Starting on Act 2 right this second.
September 5, 2016
As an avid reader, there is nothing better than a book that can capture your attention and push the boundaries of your imagination. Cirque is one of those stories. From the first page, the reader is taken into the circus life, were people feel free to embrace their differences, yet there is a unique element added to bring on the creep factor. From there the author takes you on a journey filled with fear, longing and shame.
One day at the circus changes the life of a young boy forever.
One moment of voyeurism shapes the desires within him.
One night the circus within him, grows bigger than he can contain.
Circus nights are what I live for now, these moments when I can be my clown, where I am him.
Like him or not, Sivan is easily one of the most fascinating characters I've read about. On the outside, he seems like a normal guy. He runs his own business and plays rugby. On the inside, he is a clown in hiding. A clown with desires few can fulfill.
Sivan has to resort to fetish ads in order to live out his dreams. The biggest problem he faces is . . .
People are afraid of clowns – thanks Stephen King for making it hard for me.
So finding someone who will accept his brand of kink, is not a simple one. Enter Imogene.
Sivan first meets Imogene at his mother's house, when his sister, Sam, brings her to dinner. I would say this book had delayed instalust. It is not until Sivan later sees Imogene in a circus-like setting, when the lust for her comes to light. She intoxicates him, almost to the point of madness, with the clown begging to be unleased. Yes, this book had an odd mix of sexy and creepy, making it all the more intriguing.
Steal her.
Just like Sivan, Imogene is a very alluring character. Based on how she treats Sam, I should hate her. But honestly, the more I learned about Sam, as revealed from many sources, the more I disliked her. Imogene obviously has a dark side, based on her past. It's what drew her to Sivan in the first place. However, her back story is a sad one, so I had more sympathy for her than hatred.
At first glance, Imogene is Sivan's perfect match.
She was raised in the circus life.
She still lives the circus life. Literally.
She and Sivan share a mutual attraction.
And as a contortionist/thrill seeker, she has the capability to meet Sivan's sexual needs.
There's only one problem . . . her fear is his passion.
“My happiest memories and my worst nightmares are all wrapped up in a shiny big tent and I didn’t know how to feel being here, but I’d like to go home now.”
This book, appropriately, felt like my first experience at a Cirque du Soleil show.
Magical
Mesmerizing
Unchartered
Hauntingly beautiful
An element of fear
Embracing the unusual
The author captured the thrill and wonder under a big top, then threw caution to the wind and took me down a path of pain and heartbreak.
I don't feel like my review has lived up to quality of this story, but hopefully you can tell from my gushing, how much I loved it. Easily one of my favorite reads of 2016!! I can't wait for Act Two.
*An ARC was received for an honest review.
For more reviews, visit
One day at the circus changes the life of a young boy forever.
One moment of voyeurism shapes the desires within him.
One night the circus within him, grows bigger than he can contain.
Circus nights are what I live for now, these moments when I can be my clown, where I am him.
Like him or not, Sivan is easily one of the most fascinating characters I've read about. On the outside, he seems like a normal guy. He runs his own business and plays rugby. On the inside, he is a clown in hiding. A clown with desires few can fulfill.
Sivan has to resort to fetish ads in order to live out his dreams. The biggest problem he faces is . . .
People are afraid of clowns – thanks Stephen King for making it hard for me.
So finding someone who will accept his brand of kink, is not a simple one. Enter Imogene.
Sivan first meets Imogene at his mother's house, when his sister, Sam, brings her to dinner. I would say this book had delayed instalust. It is not until Sivan later sees Imogene in a circus-like setting, when the lust for her comes to light. She intoxicates him, almost to the point of madness, with the clown begging to be unleased. Yes, this book had an odd mix of sexy and creepy, making it all the more intriguing.
Steal her.
Just like Sivan, Imogene is a very alluring character. Based on how she treats Sam, I should hate her. But honestly, the more I learned about Sam, as revealed from many sources, the more I disliked her. Imogene obviously has a dark side, based on her past. It's what drew her to Sivan in the first place. However, her back story is a sad one, so I had more sympathy for her than hatred.
At first glance, Imogene is Sivan's perfect match.
She was raised in the circus life.
She still lives the circus life. Literally.
She and Sivan share a mutual attraction.
And as a contortionist/thrill seeker, she has the capability to meet Sivan's sexual needs.
There's only one problem . . . her fear is his passion.
“My happiest memories and my worst nightmares are all wrapped up in a shiny big tent and I didn’t know how to feel being here, but I’d like to go home now.”
This book, appropriately, felt like my first experience at a Cirque du Soleil show.
Magical
Mesmerizing
Unchartered
Hauntingly beautiful
An element of fear
Embracing the unusual
The author captured the thrill and wonder under a big top, then threw caution to the wind and took me down a path of pain and heartbreak.
I don't feel like my review has lived up to quality of this story, but hopefully you can tell from my gushing, how much I loved it. Easily one of my favorite reads of 2016!! I can't wait for Act Two.
*An ARC was received for an honest review.
For more reviews, visit
August 1, 2016
4.5 explosive stars!
Empty your mind of any books you've previously read by Ashleigh, a true creative genius. Once you've cleared your mind, prepare yourself to enter into the dark mind of a clown. A mind of a man whose childhood became nonexistent before his preteen years. Nonexistent because he was a curious kid and the things he experienced as a child became his obsession as a man. Sivan the clown.
Meet Sivan. A construction company owner obsessed with "his" clown. His obsession to find the perfect woman for his clown is consuming him. Enters Imogene. Imogene is an enigma. More importantly, at least to Sivan, she is a show girl and her specialty is the burlesque circuit. Do you see a pattern? Yeah? Don't. Ashleigh is definitely not going to make it that easy for the reader. Creative genius, remember?
As Cirque continues to unravel we meet Gavin, Sivan's best friend and business partner. He also has a truckload of secrets and demons. Last but not least, there is Sivan's younger sister, Sam. Sam is an attention addict and does unspeakable things to feed her addiction.
Ashleigh did a magnificent job character building and setting the stage for the big hoorah (next book)! The characters' dynamics are expertly woven throughout this story. Cirque is beautifully written and masterfully executed. We learn in this installment things are not as clear as they seem. There is more to come. Never fear. It's not over until the clown's frown is upside down!
Empty your mind of any books you've previously read by Ashleigh, a true creative genius. Once you've cleared your mind, prepare yourself to enter into the dark mind of a clown. A mind of a man whose childhood became nonexistent before his preteen years. Nonexistent because he was a curious kid and the things he experienced as a child became his obsession as a man. Sivan the clown.
Meet Sivan. A construction company owner obsessed with "his" clown. His obsession to find the perfect woman for his clown is consuming him. Enters Imogene. Imogene is an enigma. More importantly, at least to Sivan, she is a show girl and her specialty is the burlesque circuit. Do you see a pattern? Yeah? Don't. Ashleigh is definitely not going to make it that easy for the reader. Creative genius, remember?
As Cirque continues to unravel we meet Gavin, Sivan's best friend and business partner. He also has a truckload of secrets and demons. Last but not least, there is Sivan's younger sister, Sam. Sam is an attention addict and does unspeakable things to feed her addiction.
Ashleigh did a magnificent job character building and setting the stage for the big hoorah (next book)! The characters' dynamics are expertly woven throughout this story. Cirque is beautifully written and masterfully executed. We learn in this installment things are not as clear as they seem. There is more to come. Never fear. It's not over until the clown's frown is upside down!
July 25, 2016
Let me start by being honest. I hate clowns. DETEST THEM. They scare me terribly, however, Sivan. <3 I found myself loving him and wanting to care for him. (I know, I'm weird.) Anyway, this is my second book by this author and she's moving up my favorite list pretty quickly. This was a dark, gripping tale. A tale that will make you think. Does that monster in the dark really want to hurt you? Or does he just want love?
Ashleigh, you did what you said you would do. You made me love the clown.
Now, on to Act 2!!
Ashleigh, you did what you said you would do. You made me love the clown.
Now, on to Act 2!!
September 21, 2017
I didn't think that I would like this book because of the whole scary clown, but this was a good crazy read. Sivan is a very introverted guy he owns a construction company with his best friend, Gavin. When he was a teenager, he watched a circus show, then went secretly backstage following the clown, and witnessed a rough sex scene the clown was having. He was captivated by it and it was engraved so hard in his memory that he strived and aimed all his life to be that clown. That was some weird kinky stuff. When his younger sister Samantha, brings her friend Imogene to dinner things really get interesting. Imogene is a beautiful girl who was born in a circus and lived the circus life with her mother until her father took her away by force at the age of 11 to have a normal life. She performs with Samantha at an underground cirque burlesque. She also has some dark secrets from her past life in the circus a match made in heaven. This was a crazy book and the ending was a surprise. This was my first time reading this author this book was well written with no errors in grammar or spelling. I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
July 21, 2016
Beta Read
Cirque Act 1 ~ 5*+ Read
A.Giannoccaro is one of my favourite authors, I have read every book of hers and Cirque took me by surprise in a very good way, she is known for her very dark pitch black soul destroying books and
Cirque Act 1 is best described as a Psychological erotic thriller that will leave your mind total spinning and I have no doubt Act 2 is going to go darker.
Sivan is a caring son, brother and friend and wants to be seen has a normal boy/man but he hides a deep secret that is fighting for power.
Imogene calls to Sivan like no other but she is also struggling with hidden secrets.
Sam his sister you will either love or hate her >>> me I hated her !
Gavin his best and only true friend is also hiding things yet to be uncovered.
Highly recommended for readers who like a gripping, erotic thriller mind twist book.
Cirque Act 1 ~ 5*+ Read
A.Giannoccaro is one of my favourite authors, I have read every book of hers and Cirque took me by surprise in a very good way, she is known for her very dark pitch black soul destroying books and
Cirque Act 1 is best described as a Psychological erotic thriller that will leave your mind total spinning and I have no doubt Act 2 is going to go darker.
Sivan is a caring son, brother and friend and wants to be seen has a normal boy/man but he hides a deep secret that is fighting for power.
Imogene calls to Sivan like no other but she is also struggling with hidden secrets.
Sam his sister you will either love or hate her >>> me I hated her !
Gavin his best and only true friend is also hiding things yet to be uncovered.
Highly recommended for readers who like a gripping, erotic thriller mind twist book.
July 30, 2016
The boy sees the clown. The boy fantasises about the clown. The boy becomes the Clown.
But Clowns don't have an encore and nobody loves the Clown. In fact people are scared of the clown, like Imogene.
So he mostly hangs his clown inside a closet, but sometimes the Clown whispers in his head and needs a release, so he comes out and takes over.
It's a very hypnotic read. Sivan is a beautiful person with a very sad clown inside him. He wants to find happiness with Imogene. He wants to smile with her but the Clown has a drooping sad mouth and it doesn't let Sivan be happy.
By the and Sivan finds the courage to discard his lonely life and embrace his inner Clown..........
Aaaaaaah.....now to wait for the next Act !
it's very unique subject and the writing is superlative . Ashleigh handle the haunting story with tenderness and poignancy .
But Clowns don't have an encore and nobody loves the Clown. In fact people are scared of the clown, like Imogene.
So he mostly hangs his clown inside a closet, but sometimes the Clown whispers in his head and needs a release, so he comes out and takes over.
It's a very hypnotic read. Sivan is a beautiful person with a very sad clown inside him. He wants to find happiness with Imogene. He wants to smile with her but the Clown has a drooping sad mouth and it doesn't let Sivan be happy.
By the and Sivan finds the courage to discard his lonely life and embrace his inner Clown..........
Aaaaaaah.....now to wait for the next Act !
it's very unique subject and the writing is superlative . Ashleigh handle the haunting story with tenderness and poignancy .
August 1, 2016
I've been wanting to read 'Cirque' ever since I saw the cover. (Ironic- considering I've always had a slight fear regarding 'clowns.')
And ladies and gentlemen...I have to say....I'm cured.
Ashleigh Giannoccaro took me on a dark and erotic journey with 'Cirque'.
The reader can't help but be sucked into Sivan's complex mind via Giannoccarco's brilliant storytelling. And as the story unfolds, so do your emotions right along with it.
For me, the book was indeed a performance. One that deserves a standing ovation.
I can't wait to read the next act.
And ladies and gentlemen...I have to say....I'm cured.
Ashleigh Giannoccaro took me on a dark and erotic journey with 'Cirque'.
The reader can't help but be sucked into Sivan's complex mind via Giannoccarco's brilliant storytelling. And as the story unfolds, so do your emotions right along with it.
For me, the book was indeed a performance. One that deserves a standing ovation.
I can't wait to read the next act.
September 13, 2016
What can I say? I have read dark and gritty but this was a genre on its own.
Let Sivan drag you into his circus. Beware the clown!
Full review to come...
4 Stars
Let Sivan drag you into his circus. Beware the clown!
Full review to come...
4 Stars
October 22, 2020
Oh man this book, metaphorically beautiful.. That's all I can muster up at present.
May 28, 2020
Wow 😱 I really love this kind of books,
Different, special, ones that make you shrink.
Squeeze the juice from my body. And .... boom 💥
Yes, I'm insane for reading such things. If you don't like books that make your mind to roll, or kinky books. It's not for you! But, give it a try, chances are you will also have the feeling that ... they fooled you. The review is * very * short, so as not to reveal unnecessary spoilers 😬😉
Don't know the author. A huge thank you to my friend ,the amazing Kineret who recommended me this crazy duet! 😘
🤡 "𝙽𝚘 𝚘𝚗𝚎 𝚕𝚒𝚔𝚎𝚜 𝚌𝚕𝚘𝚠𝚗𝚜, 𝚗𝚘 𝚘𝚗𝚎 𝚊𝚌𝚌𝚎𝚙𝚝𝚜 𝚝𝚑𝚘𝚜𝚎 𝚠𝚑𝚘 𝚊𝚛𝚎 𝚍𝚒𝚏𝚏𝚎𝚛𝚎𝚗𝚝 𝚝𝚘 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚖; 𝙸 𝚔𝚗𝚘𝚠 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚋𝚎𝚝𝚝𝚎𝚛 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚗 𝚖𝚘𝚜𝚝." 🤡
Ever been afraid of clowns? I only announce that I have dreamed about him several times and did not fall asleep at night throughout the reading. There was a mix of psychology, horror, and darkness here. Or in short all the things I love in one place.
Sivan, an adolescent who goes with his family to the French circus that comes to their town. But, like any adolescent, he has hormones. And he has to release them 🤣 He runs away from the circus and watches the clown and trapeze acts through the hole.
The book was very creepy and so good I couldn't put it out of my hand. It was made of such good elements that I was like that 😱 And as someone who is really into these things. Did I fly? Yes. Did I want to scream? Yes!!!! 😬🙈
When Sivan sees this clown. He sees this look as nauseating and cool. And he dreams of being that clown. This is his future.
🎪 "𝚃𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚒𝚜 𝚖𝚢 𝚌𝚒𝚛𝚌𝚞𝚜 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚜𝚑𝚎 𝚒𝚜 𝚖𝚢 𝚜𝚝𝚊𝚛 𝚊𝚌𝚝, 𝚊𝚕𝚠𝚊���𝚜 𝚓𝚞𝚜𝚝 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚜𝚊𝚍 𝚌𝚕𝚘𝚠𝚗 𝚠𝚑𝚘 𝚖𝚊𝚔𝚎𝚜 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚖 𝚑𝚊𝚙𝚙𝚢." 🎪
Imogen is full of secrets and the most mysterious character I have read in most of my life.
I have never came across such a character. She is sexy ,with fiery red hair!
This book had so many twists and turns that made even me shocked
My jaw reached the floor several times. I had nightmares at night from this duet so much!
Sometimes people think they know everything, but they don't! 🙈
The clowns there Made me want to become one of them 🤣 Maybe in Purim we will look up to that? 🤔
🎭 "𝚃𝚑𝚎 𝚌𝚒𝚛𝚌𝚞𝚜 𝚒𝚜 𝚖𝚊𝚐𝚒𝚌𝚊𝚕, 𝚋𝚞𝚝 𝚗𝚘𝚝 𝚊𝚕𝚕 𝚖𝚊𝚐𝚒𝚌 𝚒𝚜 𝚋𝚎𝚊𝚞𝚝𝚒𝚏𝚞𝚕. 𝚂𝚘𝚖𝚎 𝚘𝚏 𝚒𝚝 𝚒𝚜 𝚍𝚊𝚛𝚔 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚞𝚐𝚕𝚢." 🎭
In conclusion, this duet has taken a lot out of me. He was just excellent. The first part I really liked, but for me the second part of the story was even more insane and crazy as I like it.
And being told psychic and sickly, kinky, taboo even a little ... weird love 🖤 I'm running forward these things! Do not be afraid, or you will ... because the clown will haunt you! 😈☠
September 18, 2016
I just loved Cirque Act 1 by Ashleigh Giannnoccaro. It doesn't just draw you in. It grabs you right from the prologue and immerses you into this slightly dark, super twisted and kinky story!
"...none of these people would accept who I am when the sun sets and the world goes dark. No one likes clowns, no one accepts those who are different to them; I know that better than most."
It felt like magic, the way the author seemed to manipulate my feelings, love and sympathy for these characters. They were not, ultimately very lovable characters, but I loved them just the same and cannot wait to read more from this author!
"Nothing is ever all shining lights and glitter, even when we don’t see it there is darkness, a bad side of the coin."
"...none of these people would accept who I am when the sun sets and the world goes dark. No one likes clowns, no one accepts those who are different to them; I know that better than most."
It felt like magic, the way the author seemed to manipulate my feelings, love and sympathy for these characters. They were not, ultimately very lovable characters, but I loved them just the same and cannot wait to read more from this author!
"Nothing is ever all shining lights and glitter, even when we don’t see it there is darkness, a bad side of the coin."
August 10, 2016
I love the clown… and you will too!
I have always loved Ashleigh Giannoccaro’s books, but Cirque is worlds away from her Colour Me Ugly series. Clowns are not my thing; not by a long shot, but Sivan might have just changed my mind because, I think I love the clown. As the reader, you can’t help but be drawn to him and his dark side. Cirque is freaking brilliant.... this book felt like a voyeuristic trip into a world of hidden desires and high wire acts. I love how the book is able to wrap you in atmosphere of that old carny feel you just want to grab your popcorn and enjoy the show.
Sivan is a loner. Even though he has friends and family who love him, he only feels free when he lets himself go and paints a frown on his face. It’s a secret he’s kept since he was a kid peeking through a window at a circus. As he aged, his obsession only grew. He feels he can’t share his life with anyone because of his secrets... until his world gets turned upside down. Until he meets Imogene.
I loved Imogene from the start. A girl with circus and magic in her blood. One who also hides her secrets as well as the box she contorts her body into at night. Imogene is intrigued and drawn to Sivan unlike anyone ever before; just like Sivan is draw to Imogene. The girl who is scared to fall, is falling in the worst way possible. But followed by a shadow from her past,she's completely unprepared for the nightmare that haunts her. Secrets destroy and skeletons don’t stay hidden forever. In her world, falling is dangerous and you get hurt: so you don’t fall.
I can’t wait for the second act to start... this intermission is gonna kill me! I can’t wait to see what the clown has up his sleeve. All I want to do is care and love Sivan and his darkness, like no one has before and I know you will too. I went into this story not liking clowns, but I came out loving the clown and loving this book.
I have always loved Ashleigh Giannoccaro’s books, but Cirque is worlds away from her Colour Me Ugly series. Clowns are not my thing; not by a long shot, but Sivan might have just changed my mind because, I think I love the clown. As the reader, you can’t help but be drawn to him and his dark side. Cirque is freaking brilliant.... this book felt like a voyeuristic trip into a world of hidden desires and high wire acts. I love how the book is able to wrap you in atmosphere of that old carny feel you just want to grab your popcorn and enjoy the show.
“No one likes clowns, no one accepts those who are different to them; I know that better than most.” - Sivan
Sivan is a loner. Even though he has friends and family who love him, he only feels free when he lets himself go and paints a frown on his face. It’s a secret he’s kept since he was a kid peeking through a window at a circus. As he aged, his obsession only grew. He feels he can’t share his life with anyone because of his secrets... until his world gets turned upside down. Until he meets Imogene.
“We all have skeletons, I like to slow dance with mine, but most people hide them away so no one ever sees them.” - Imogene
I loved Imogene from the start. A girl with circus and magic in her blood. One who also hides her secrets as well as the box she contorts her body into at night. Imogene is intrigued and drawn to Sivan unlike anyone ever before; just like Sivan is draw to Imogene. The girl who is scared to fall, is falling in the worst way possible. But followed by a shadow from her past,she's completely unprepared for the nightmare that haunts her. Secrets destroy and skeletons don’t stay hidden forever. In her world, falling is dangerous and you get hurt: so you don’t fall.
“I’m coming for you, Imogene, your box can’t keep you safe from my bitter love.” - Sivan
I can’t wait for the second act to start... this intermission is gonna kill me! I can’t wait to see what the clown has up his sleeve. All I want to do is care and love Sivan and his darkness, like no one has before and I know you will too. I went into this story not liking clowns, but I came out loving the clown and loving this book.
“Welcome one and all. We have no ringmaster, no rules, and no love here. Laughter will be at your expense and fun is mine alone, your pain will be my enjoyment.”- The Clown
September 19, 2016
Hmmm…..when I started to read „Cirque Act 1“ by Ashleigh Giannoccara my first thought was that I want to run away to the circus. As I read on, that changed into me wanting to run away to Sivan’s circus. And that notion still stands.
Let me say that I will never look at clowns the same way again and it’s all the author’s fault.
This book was something else. Original, kinky, creepy and it messed with my head fiercely at times. But I can’t say that I didn’t enjoy it. That would be a lie.
I can’t say a lot without giving too much away and I don’t want to do it, because Sivan’s story needs to be experienced firsthand. There are many surprising twists and turns and quite a few moments that made my jaw hit the floor. Some things I just didn’t see coming.
When I first read the blurb, I expected the story and Sivan to be darker, though I’m positively surprised that it wasn’t. What was definitely dark were some of the flashbacks. They were as dark and disturbing as night and I liked that Giannoccara didn’t go into gruesome detail. There was enough details to make me hurt with the character, but not so much that I feel like I need therapy. The balance was perfect and I really like that nothing seemed to be in the story just for shock value. Everything had its place and purpose.
Including the interconnection between all the characters, their issues and the story. It was an intricate web of who is connected how to whom and what effect one little action will have on everyone else. I loved to see the domino effect in action, more often than not caused by Sivan’s sister Sam, who drove me batshit crazy, despite me knowing that she has issues on her own. I still wanted to slap her to the moon and back.
There were two things though that bothered me about this book. For one, I felt like something was missing when it came to Sivan and Imogene. Besides the obvious connection, I still don’t know what they like about each other, what makes them possibly fall in love, what makes their relationship tick. It’s clear it is more than sexual attraction or kink, but it’s not clear what. I would’ve loved to find out more on that.
The other thing was the editing. There were typos, commas and words missing, while in other places there were too many words. It was distracting at times.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and am looking forward to Act 2 in order to find out what happens next. And to see if maybe someone does slap Sam to the moon and back…
4 never-thought-a-clown-could-be-sexy stars.
Let me say that I will never look at clowns the same way again and it’s all the author’s fault.
This book was something else. Original, kinky, creepy and it messed with my head fiercely at times. But I can’t say that I didn’t enjoy it. That would be a lie.
I can’t say a lot without giving too much away and I don’t want to do it, because Sivan’s story needs to be experienced firsthand. There are many surprising twists and turns and quite a few moments that made my jaw hit the floor. Some things I just didn’t see coming.
When I first read the blurb, I expected the story and Sivan to be darker, though I’m positively surprised that it wasn’t. What was definitely dark were some of the flashbacks. They were as dark and disturbing as night and I liked that Giannoccara didn’t go into gruesome detail. There was enough details to make me hurt with the character, but not so much that I feel like I need therapy. The balance was perfect and I really like that nothing seemed to be in the story just for shock value. Everything had its place and purpose.
Including the interconnection between all the characters, their issues and the story. It was an intricate web of who is connected how to whom and what effect one little action will have on everyone else. I loved to see the domino effect in action, more often than not caused by Sivan’s sister Sam, who drove me batshit crazy, despite me knowing that she has issues on her own. I still wanted to slap her to the moon and back.
There were two things though that bothered me about this book. For one, I felt like something was missing when it came to Sivan and Imogene. Besides the obvious connection, I still don’t know what they like about each other, what makes them possibly fall in love, what makes their relationship tick. It’s clear it is more than sexual attraction or kink, but it’s not clear what. I would’ve loved to find out more on that.
The other thing was the editing. There were typos, commas and words missing, while in other places there were too many words. It was distracting at times.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and am looking forward to Act 2 in order to find out what happens next. And to see if maybe someone does slap Sam to the moon and back…
4 never-thought-a-clown-could-be-sexy stars.
August 8, 2016
Copy provided by author for exchange with a honest review.
Sirkus selalu ada dalam darah Sivan dan Imogene, walaupun berasal dari pengalaman masa lalu yang berbeda. Sirkus juga yang menjadi dasar obsesi Sivan terhadap badut dan Imogene terhadap box.
Pertama, tambahan point PLUS karena A. Giannocarro berani menulis novel dengan hero yang tak biasa. Seorang pria dengan alter ego seorang badut. Well, tak ada seorangpun yang menyukai badut bukan? Tapi di sini kita bisa mengintip di balik pikiran Sivan tentang apa yang di hasilkan dari "trauma mata" masa kecilnya. Imogene cukup mengejutkan sekaligus membingungan sebagai heroine. Di awal dia tampak kuat dan sangat manipulatif. Tapi saat dia menemukan cinta, karakternya mulai emosional dan lebih banyak angst. Berbeda dengan karakter Sivan yang makin menguat di saat cobaan melanda.
Kedua, cara bercerita masih khas dengan alur perlahan, intens, detail dan narasi angst yang kuat. Di ceritakan dalam dual POV pertama, kisah ini tampil dengan minim repetisi scene. Buku ini juga jauh lebih ringan dari kisah suspens psikologi di buku-buku Ash yang lainnya. Dan terlepas dari kepribadian tersembunyi Sivan ini terasa seperti buku tema keluarga.
Ketiga, storyline buku ini sederhana karena aku yakin ini hanya babak awal dari kisah kehidupan Sivan dan Imogene. Chemistry mereka terbangun perlahan dan scene steamy mereka sedikit tapi WOW.. berkesan. Hal ini membuatku memaafkan minimnya konflik dan ending menggantung yang membuat penasaran akan kelanjutan hubungan mereka.
Ini adalah buku romance psikologi yang berbeda. Buku ini membuatku penasaran apakah seorang badut yang menakutkan juga bisa di cintai? Mungkin akan ada lanjutan buku ini di Cirque Act 2?
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My rating :
Star : 3.5/5
Bikini : 3/5
Sirkus selalu ada dalam darah Sivan dan Imogene, walaupun berasal dari pengalaman masa lalu yang berbeda. Sirkus juga yang menjadi dasar obsesi Sivan terhadap badut dan Imogene terhadap box.
Pertama, tambahan point PLUS karena A. Giannocarro berani menulis novel dengan hero yang tak biasa. Seorang pria dengan alter ego seorang badut. Well, tak ada seorangpun yang menyukai badut bukan? Tapi di sini kita bisa mengintip di balik pikiran Sivan tentang apa yang di hasilkan dari "trauma mata" masa kecilnya. Imogene cukup mengejutkan sekaligus membingungan sebagai heroine. Di awal dia tampak kuat dan sangat manipulatif. Tapi saat dia menemukan cinta, karakternya mulai emosional dan lebih banyak angst. Berbeda dengan karakter Sivan yang makin menguat di saat cobaan melanda.
Kedua, cara bercerita masih khas dengan alur perlahan, intens, detail dan narasi angst yang kuat. Di ceritakan dalam dual POV pertama, kisah ini tampil dengan minim repetisi scene. Buku ini juga jauh lebih ringan dari kisah suspens psikologi di buku-buku Ash yang lainnya. Dan terlepas dari kepribadian tersembunyi Sivan ini terasa seperti buku tema keluarga.
Ketiga, storyline buku ini sederhana karena aku yakin ini hanya babak awal dari kisah kehidupan Sivan dan Imogene. Chemistry mereka terbangun perlahan dan scene steamy mereka sedikit tapi WOW.. berkesan. Hal ini membuatku memaafkan minimnya konflik dan ending menggantung yang membuat penasaran akan kelanjutan hubungan mereka.
Ini adalah buku romance psikologi yang berbeda. Buku ini membuatku penasaran apakah seorang badut yang menakutkan juga bisa di cintai? Mungkin akan ada lanjutan buku ini di Cirque Act 2?
My rating :
Star : 3.5/5
Bikini : 3/5
August 13, 2016
What a fascinating story, totally out-of-the-box awesomeness!
The mask one wears to hide the demons that desire to takeover. What's hiding in your closet?
If you've read Ashleigh Giannoccaro before then be prepared to witness her diversity. She went completely out of the norm, her norm, to present complexity and intrigue. This one is mild in comparison to her other books, but still contains the grit, you can't look away. If clowns aren't your thing... I suggest taking a shot, because you might find yourself loving the clown. A little boy who's interest was piqued, one dark, twisted night at the circus, the fire was lit, a need that controls his ability to relate to others. Intimacy never to be found and lust that can never be fulfilled. Until Imogene. Will he let his clown come out to play?
"She has set something off in my mind and I dance a dangerous tango with the memories, the desires and reality."
"Steal her, steal her take her to your circus Clown. Make her love you."
Imogene - plagued by her past, the box contains all her secrets. The Circus is in her blood, her nightmares. Will she join the circus of two or chase her next act of solitude?
I had my thoughts going into this book, but I was blindsided by the originality and the feels it brought on. I felt this sadness take over while reading, I wanted to put make-up on, jump into the book, and I wanted to chase the clown. Totally crazy, I know. There's secrets yet to unfold and I'm dying to see what's to come. Act 1 felt like the first time seeing a circus act, I'm guessing Act 2 is going to be the main attraction.
The mask one wears to hide the demons that desire to takeover. What's hiding in your closet?
If you've read Ashleigh Giannoccaro before then be prepared to witness her diversity. She went completely out of the norm, her norm, to present complexity and intrigue. This one is mild in comparison to her other books, but still contains the grit, you can't look away. If clowns aren't your thing... I suggest taking a shot, because you might find yourself loving the clown. A little boy who's interest was piqued, one dark, twisted night at the circus, the fire was lit, a need that controls his ability to relate to others. Intimacy never to be found and lust that can never be fulfilled. Until Imogene. Will he let his clown come out to play?
"She has set something off in my mind and I dance a dangerous tango with the memories, the desires and reality."
"Steal her, steal her take her to your circus Clown. Make her love you."
Imogene - plagued by her past, the box contains all her secrets. The Circus is in her blood, her nightmares. Will she join the circus of two or chase her next act of solitude?
I had my thoughts going into this book, but I was blindsided by the originality and the feels it brought on. I felt this sadness take over while reading, I wanted to put make-up on, jump into the book, and I wanted to chase the clown. Totally crazy, I know. There's secrets yet to unfold and I'm dying to see what's to come. Act 1 felt like the first time seeing a circus act, I'm guessing Act 2 is going to be the main attraction.
September 15, 2016
This is a hard book to review. I'm going to try and stay away from the actual story as much as I can because it's better to experience it for yourselves.
Sivan is a very complex character. Although he's your everyday guy on the outside, there is another side of him that's banging on the door demanding to be let out and he's finding it harder and harder to keep his clown at bay. I love Sivan. He is such a complex character that really made me fall in love with him. I loved that you get a real insight into his mind and emotions, you find out his trigger and the author shows you just how deep his obsession runs. When he finally meets someone that he connects with, he's still desperately trying to balance both sides of himself and although he's struggling, he really is trying.
This book is nothing like I expected. I have read and loved Ashleigh's previous books and this is so completely different from them id never have guessed she could write about a really lovable clown.
Cirque is twisty, it's got plenty of complex characters in it, a story that's starting to pick up speed and it left me desperate for the next book. It has a seedy, grubby kind of feel to it in places and it fit the tone of the book brilliantly. The descriptions and the atmosphere this author creates had me actually feeling like I was there with Sivan. I was the invisible stranger on the outskirts looking in and I loved every single second of it.
Sivan is a very complex character. Although he's your everyday guy on the outside, there is another side of him that's banging on the door demanding to be let out and he's finding it harder and harder to keep his clown at bay. I love Sivan. He is such a complex character that really made me fall in love with him. I loved that you get a real insight into his mind and emotions, you find out his trigger and the author shows you just how deep his obsession runs. When he finally meets someone that he connects with, he's still desperately trying to balance both sides of himself and although he's struggling, he really is trying.
This book is nothing like I expected. I have read and loved Ashleigh's previous books and this is so completely different from them id never have guessed she could write about a really lovable clown.
Cirque is twisty, it's got plenty of complex characters in it, a story that's starting to pick up speed and it left me desperate for the next book. It has a seedy, grubby kind of feel to it in places and it fit the tone of the book brilliantly. The descriptions and the atmosphere this author creates had me actually feeling like I was there with Sivan. I was the invisible stranger on the outskirts looking in and I loved every single second of it.
August 27, 2016
I'm sorry...what did I think? *sputters unintelligently, then giggles behind hand* What did I not think?! THAT is the question. Yes, I'm fucking horrified of clowns. Yes, I walked into this thinking, 'Bring it, Ashleigh...Girl, no, seriously! BRING IT!!' I'm a product of POLTERGEIST, and not the new shit—we're talking 80's POLTERGEIST here, people. Remember THAT clown? Pfft, I said opening my Kindle before bed...there's no way in hell you're gonna be able to use that deep seeded (childhood nightmare, really) fear and turn it into something I'm cool with—in the bedroom. Well, I never attested I haven't made a liar out of myself before—I finished it in five hours flat :D
Now...since I've finished my rambling, let's get back to the question that was asked: What did I think? CIRQUE is fucking SICK! TWISTED! A perfectly orchestrated carnival of grit, edge and F* Me hotness!!! Oh my goodness! I loved this beautifully painful story! I loved these characters! I loved the plot. Fuck it, I loved it all!! This is my first time reading anything by Ashleigh Giannoccaro, and hell no…it won’t be my last! Love me some smeared clown make-up all of a sudden ;p And YES!!!! That’s all I’m gonna say! :p
Now...since I've finished my rambling, let's get back to the question that was asked: What did I think? CIRQUE is fucking SICK! TWISTED! A perfectly orchestrated carnival of grit, edge and F* Me hotness!!! Oh my goodness! I loved this beautifully painful story! I loved these characters! I loved the plot. Fuck it, I loved it all!! This is my first time reading anything by Ashleigh Giannoccaro, and hell no…it won’t be my last! Love me some smeared clown make-up all of a sudden ;p And YES!!!! That’s all I’m gonna say! :p
September 26, 2018
I've agonized over this rating for days before I finally settled on this. So just hear me out.
Ashleigh Giannoccaro can write. Boy can she write. That woman crafted a story that had me questioning myself, my feelings, and had me judging a fictional character. I'm almost certain I could happily enter therapy after reading this book. That's a good writer right there. Bravo madam.
Now per the Goodreads rating system, 2 stars means "it was ok". I didn't like the subject matter itself. I can read dark, and have read others in this genre. But something about this one just disturbed me. Maybe it was the fact that it was contemporary. She could have been writing about my neighbor 3 doors down (if I lived in England, but...details). And for some reason that just unnerved me. Or maybe it's the whole clown thing. I'm not a fan of clowns and am even more scared of them now.
That being said, there are many others that enjoyed this book and that's great. I enjoyed the author's writing style, just not the subject matter. This woman can write, again, there is no question or debating that. This book just wasn't for me. That being said...unfortunately I hate how it just ended and now I feel like I need closure and am going to have to pick up Act II.
I'm scared.
Ashleigh Giannoccaro can write. Boy can she write. That woman crafted a story that had me questioning myself, my feelings, and had me judging a fictional character. I'm almost certain I could happily enter therapy after reading this book. That's a good writer right there. Bravo madam.
Now per the Goodreads rating system, 2 stars means "it was ok". I didn't like the subject matter itself. I can read dark, and have read others in this genre. But something about this one just disturbed me. Maybe it was the fact that it was contemporary. She could have been writing about my neighbor 3 doors down (if I lived in England, but...details). And for some reason that just unnerved me. Or maybe it's the whole clown thing. I'm not a fan of clowns and am even more scared of them now.
That being said, there are many others that enjoyed this book and that's great. I enjoyed the author's writing style, just not the subject matter. This woman can write, again, there is no question or debating that. This book just wasn't for me. That being said...unfortunately I hate how it just ended and now I feel like I need closure and am going to have to pick up Act II.
I'm scared.
October 19, 2016
4.5 The Clown Stars
Uniquely captivating. You won't want to put it down.
Thanks Grace for the recommendation.
Uniquely captivating. You won't want to put it down.
Thanks Grace for the recommendation.
December 31, 2016
4.5 stars ⭐
March 8, 2017
Nothing is ever all shining lights and glitter, even when we don't see it there is darkness, a bad side of the coin.
As a young lad Sivan spent many evenings at the circus with his family. He'd sneak off to a familiar trailer and watch with fascination the carnal events taking place between one particular clown and showgirl. Since childhood, Sivan's obsession started and lasted into his adulthood. Now hiding away from the regular world he keeps his secret where it belongs: tucked and hidden away.
Imogene comes from a trying past yet she has circus in her blood- she can't escape and wouldn't want to- she's a natural. Once Sivan sets his eyes on her the attraction is overpowering. But what happens in a world where no one loves clowns?
When I picked this up I knew it would be unlike anything I've read and suffice to say I was happily impressed! This was soooo good! And so unique. I did also get the added thrill of taunting my fiance that I was reading about a sexy clown doing naughty clown things (he is TERRIFIED of clowns).
One thing that really stood out to me was the classic hedonism in this author's writing style- even the words were sexy. The way the dancers moved, the application of make-up, everything had a sexually charged description. Even when there wasn't a lot of action happening, I was lost in the pages.
The characters themselves were also a welcomed change- it isn't often to read a darker romance with a feisty girl with a pixie haircut! No doe eyes here! Imogene was something new and a character unlike any I've ever read before. I couldn't imagine a better fallen hero like Sivan who could make a clown come alive in our day and age. Sivan was a rough and gruff rugby player but deep inside he's truly his own sadistic version of a sad clown.
Overall an amazing read & one that will stay with me for a long time. I highly recommend this book to readers across various genres!! xx
My theme song for the book: *Dirty Pretty by In This Moment*
As a young lad Sivan spent many evenings at the circus with his family. He'd sneak off to a familiar trailer and watch with fascination the carnal events taking place between one particular clown and showgirl. Since childhood, Sivan's obsession started and lasted into his adulthood. Now hiding away from the regular world he keeps his secret where it belongs: tucked and hidden away.
Imogene comes from a trying past yet she has circus in her blood- she can't escape and wouldn't want to- she's a natural. Once Sivan sets his eyes on her the attraction is overpowering. But what happens in a world where no one loves clowns?
When I picked this up I knew it would be unlike anything I've read and suffice to say I was happily impressed! This was soooo good! And so unique. I did also get the added thrill of taunting my fiance that I was reading about a sexy clown doing naughty clown things (he is TERRIFIED of clowns).
One thing that really stood out to me was the classic hedonism in this author's writing style- even the words were sexy. The way the dancers moved, the application of make-up, everything had a sexually charged description. Even when there wasn't a lot of action happening, I was lost in the pages.
The characters themselves were also a welcomed change- it isn't often to read a darker romance with a feisty girl with a pixie haircut! No doe eyes here! Imogene was something new and a character unlike any I've ever read before. I couldn't imagine a better fallen hero like Sivan who could make a clown come alive in our day and age. Sivan was a rough and gruff rugby player but deep inside he's truly his own sadistic version of a sad clown.
Overall an amazing read & one that will stay with me for a long time. I highly recommend this book to readers across various genres!! xx
My theme song for the book: *Dirty Pretty by In This Moment*
Want to read
May 12, 2018💝FREE on Amazon today (5/12/2018)!💝
Blurb:
A boy looked in a window, to see a naughty show
Through the pane of pain, the master clown did blow
The circus is a holy tent, the keeper of my rhyme
Where I forged my chains, creating this pantomime
Pretending to be normal, I wait until after dark
Then I paint the frown on, get a whore from the park
At the bottom of that bed was a darling in a chest
She watched with big eyes, horror hooking her from rest
She dances for the maniac, twirling on her strings
I will make her mine, sharing damaged things
I will be her riddle, she will help me grin
So why does she run away, she has to let me in
No one loves the clown, not even the midget
We’ve gone too far, she will know my secret
Love can break the hardest mask, I know this to be true
Nightmares have hearts too, I only needed you.
Blurb:
A boy looked in a window, to see a naughty show
Through the pane of pain, the master clown did blow
The circus is a holy tent, the keeper of my rhyme
Where I forged my chains, creating this pantomime
Pretending to be normal, I wait until after dark
Then I paint the frown on, get a whore from the park
At the bottom of that bed was a darling in a chest
She watched with big eyes, horror hooking her from rest
She dances for the maniac, twirling on her strings
I will make her mine, sharing damaged things
I will be her riddle, she will help me grin
So why does she run away, she has to let me in
No one loves the clown, not even the midget
We’ve gone too far, she will know my secret
Love can break the hardest mask, I know this to be true
Nightmares have hearts too, I only needed you.
January 1, 2019
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Trigger Warning: Sexual child abuse. There are some details in the form of flash backs.
Pretty good. There are so many unanswered questions and I'll be going directly into the next book. I dont know that I would classify this as horror, maybe more dark suspense.
There are LOTS of secrets in this book and they are woven together quite magnificently. I cant wait to uncover the rest of the story.
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Trigger Warning: Sexual child abuse. There are some details in the form of flash backs.
Pretty good. There are so many unanswered questions and I'll be going directly into the next book. I dont know that I would classify this as horror, maybe more dark suspense.
"I can’t be the clown if I’m never alone, and I need him. I am him, I am the clown, and no one loves the clown."
There are LOTS of secrets in this book and they are woven together quite magnificently. I cant wait to uncover the rest of the story.
"Welcome one and all. We have no ringmaster, no rules, and no love here. Laughter will be at your expense and fun is mine alone, your pain will be my enjoyment. The show has started, please take a seat as we wait for Betty to join me in the ring.”
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