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The Electrical Venus
Can this shocking new feeling be love, or is it electrickery?
In a lowly side-show fair in eighteenth-century England, teenager Mim is struggling to find her worth as an act. Not white, but not black enough to be truly exotic, her pet parrot who speaks four languages is a bigger draw than her. But Alex, the one-armed boxer boy, sees her differently. And she, too, feels newly interested in him.
But then Dr Fox arrives with his scientific kit for producing 'electrickery' - feats of electrical magic these bawdy audiences have never seen before. To complete his act, Fox chooses Mim to play the 'Electrical Venus'. Her popularity - and the electric-shocking kisses she can provide for a penny - mean takings are up, slop is off the menu and this spark between her and Fox must surely be love.
But is this starring role her true worth, or is love worth more than a penny for an electrifying kiss?
An intoxicating and atmospheric coming of age story set in the filth and thrill of a travelling show during the height of the Georgian Enlightenment.
In a lowly side-show fair in eighteenth-century England, teenager Mim is struggling to find her worth as an act. Not white, but not black enough to be truly exotic, her pet parrot who speaks four languages is a bigger draw than her. But Alex, the one-armed boxer boy, sees her differently. And she, too, feels newly interested in him.
But then Dr Fox arrives with his scientific kit for producing 'electrickery' - feats of electrical magic these bawdy audiences have never seen before. To complete his act, Fox chooses Mim to play the 'Electrical Venus'. Her popularity - and the electric-shocking kisses she can provide for a penny - mean takings are up, slop is off the menu and this spark between her and Fox must surely be love.
But is this starring role her true worth, or is love worth more than a penny for an electrifying kiss?
An intoxicating and atmospheric coming of age story set in the filth and thrill of a travelling show during the height of the Georgian Enlightenment.
368 pages, Paperback
First published April 19, 2018
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
July 20, 2018
Book Reviewed by Stacey on www.whisperingstories.com
The Electrical Venus is an unusual, mystical tale told by the performers of a travelling circus in 18th century England, run by husband and wife team, The Graingers.
Amongst the many performers, we meet exotic Mim with her skin the colour of coffee and her beautiful face. She is well educated, courtesy of one of the performers who has now left. She has big ambitions in life, plus she also has a pet parrot called George too.
There is also Alex, a boxer with one arm. He likes Mim. He wants to get out of his normal routine and try a new one that features him and Mim together.
One day The Graingers are visited by a Dr. Fox who wants to buy Mim for his own show, one that is all about ‘Electrickery’. He wants her to be the star – His Electrical Venus.
As I stated this is an unusual tale and one I wasn’t sure how I would get on with it. The book cover is so beautiful and the synopsis so inviting that I couldn’t resist. I must admit that the story was just a delight to read.
The characters were all wonderful and so diverse. It really didn’t feel like I was reading a historical novel. The plot moved at a steady pace. Normally I’d be the first to complain that there were no faster parts, but this book didn’t need them.
If you are looking for something different then this book is a great choice. It has lots of laugh-out-loud moments, mainly from the outbursts of Mim’s Parrot, and he had plenty of them. There is also a romantic side to the book. It is quirky, peculiar and was just a fun, engaging book that I truly enjoyed from the first page to the last.
The Electrical Venus is an unusual, mystical tale told by the performers of a travelling circus in 18th century England, run by husband and wife team, The Graingers.
Amongst the many performers, we meet exotic Mim with her skin the colour of coffee and her beautiful face. She is well educated, courtesy of one of the performers who has now left. She has big ambitions in life, plus she also has a pet parrot called George too.
There is also Alex, a boxer with one arm. He likes Mim. He wants to get out of his normal routine and try a new one that features him and Mim together.
One day The Graingers are visited by a Dr. Fox who wants to buy Mim for his own show, one that is all about ‘Electrickery’. He wants her to be the star – His Electrical Venus.
As I stated this is an unusual tale and one I wasn’t sure how I would get on with it. The book cover is so beautiful and the synopsis so inviting that I couldn’t resist. I must admit that the story was just a delight to read.
The characters were all wonderful and so diverse. It really didn’t feel like I was reading a historical novel. The plot moved at a steady pace. Normally I’d be the first to complain that there were no faster parts, but this book didn’t need them.
If you are looking for something different then this book is a great choice. It has lots of laugh-out-loud moments, mainly from the outbursts of Mim’s Parrot, and he had plenty of them. There is also a romantic side to the book. It is quirky, peculiar and was just a fun, engaging book that I truly enjoyed from the first page to the last.
February 7, 2019
Told in duel POVs, The Electrical Venus is a standalone YA novel, set in the heart of Georgian England and following the lives of Mim and Alex. Both of them work at a fair, Mim with a multilingual parrot and Alex being a boxer with only one arm. When the mysterious Mr Fox arrives, Mim soon finds herself having a new role as 'The Electrical Venus' and every evening for just a penny, men can come along and kiss her, the kiss itself feeling like a electric shock.
What let the novel down for me was the strong lack of clear visual surroundings. I was generally curious about the plot-line, but struggled immensely to picture what the characters looked like and the travels that the fair did. Racism does play heavily throughout as Mim is POC, one scene in particular was hard to read, due to the actions towards her by another main character. It was a quick read, with good images and visual posters to add to the experience. I just wanted a little something more!
What let the novel down for me was the strong lack of clear visual surroundings. I was generally curious about the plot-line, but struggled immensely to picture what the characters looked like and the travels that the fair did. Racism does play heavily throughout as Mim is POC, one scene in particular was hard to read, due to the actions towards her by another main character. It was a quick read, with good images and visual posters to add to the experience. I just wanted a little something more!
April 19, 2018
The Electrical Venus tells the story of Mim, a half-caste 'girl-exotic', and Alex 'the one-armed boy'. Both have been raised by the Graingers as part of their travelling circus, earning their keep on stage. Funds are becoming tight and Mim, believing herself at the bottom of the pecking order - her act with George, the outspoken and untameable parrot, is wearing thin - fears being thrown out onto the streets. She and Alex begin to hatch a plan to become useful again, growing closer than ever as they do so, until their schemes are interrupted by the arrival of Sebastian Fox and his dazzling, magical machinery. Mim dreams of life in the spotlight. So when her chance comes in the form of Dr Fox and his 'electrickery' she seizes it with both hands. Life for Mim and Alex will never be the same again.
For all its comparisons with Caraval. The Electrical Venus couldn't be more different. The setting for this one isn't a magical realm, but a realistic eighteenth-century circus in all its, occasionally macabre, glory. We see behind the stage make up and bawdy innuendos to a travelling company who are struggling to get by, clinging to any hope, or act, they stumble across - taking risks as a means to survive. I really liked the narrative style of this book. The majority of the chapters are from first person perspective and feature Mim and Alex imparting their experiences and feelings to their animal colleagues, mainly Pig and George the parrot (who let's be honest is the true star of the show). It had the feeling of a diary format to it, which worked really well. I felt for Alex, he was a sensitive soul determined to better himself in his own way - through hard work and sheer perseverance. I was very interested to learn from the author's notes that The Electrical Venus started life as a radio play for the BBC before it became a novel, which explains the monologue style of narrative. I'll definitely be trying to find the play!
YA historical fiction is a genre that I've only recently begun delving into, but it's one that I'm fast coming to love. Its themes of young love, growing up, the loss of childhood, the fun, the youth, the zest for life and dreams for the future captivate me, and are all brilliantly conveyed in The Electrical Venus. It's a relatively short read, with enough twists that it can easily be read in one sitting - the temptation to read ahead towards the end in particular was overwhelming! If you're looking for fun, character driven historical fiction then this is the book for you.
For all its comparisons with Caraval. The Electrical Venus couldn't be more different. The setting for this one isn't a magical realm, but a realistic eighteenth-century circus in all its, occasionally macabre, glory. We see behind the stage make up and bawdy innuendos to a travelling company who are struggling to get by, clinging to any hope, or act, they stumble across - taking risks as a means to survive. I really liked the narrative style of this book. The majority of the chapters are from first person perspective and feature Mim and Alex imparting their experiences and feelings to their animal colleagues, mainly Pig and George the parrot (who let's be honest is the true star of the show). It had the feeling of a diary format to it, which worked really well. I felt for Alex, he was a sensitive soul determined to better himself in his own way - through hard work and sheer perseverance. I was very interested to learn from the author's notes that The Electrical Venus started life as a radio play for the BBC before it became a novel, which explains the monologue style of narrative. I'll definitely be trying to find the play!
YA historical fiction is a genre that I've only recently begun delving into, but it's one that I'm fast coming to love. Its themes of young love, growing up, the loss of childhood, the fun, the youth, the zest for life and dreams for the future captivate me, and are all brilliantly conveyed in The Electrical Venus. It's a relatively short read, with enough twists that it can easily be read in one sitting - the temptation to read ahead towards the end in particular was overwhelming! If you're looking for fun, character driven historical fiction then this is the book for you.
September 9, 2018
I loved this book about a travelling fair in 18th century England. It's funny, clever and full of colourful 18th-century slang. There are three narrators - two are performers in the fair (Alex the one-armed boxer and 'Electrical Venus' Mim) and one is an omniscient narrator. This feature alone was interesting as I don't think I've read many books with both an omniscient narrator and different first person narrators. Mim and Alex both have acts within the fair - Mim with her parrot, George, and Alex boxing. However when the dashing Dr Fox offers Mim the chance to feature in a new act showcasing the power of electricity she jumps at the chance. The Enlightenment is a central theme of this book, explored through Dr Fox and Mim's research into electricity, taxonomy and more. They say fact is stranger than fiction and this seems very apt in relation to the travelling fair and the 'Electrical Venus' act in particular. And yet the ethical themes explored in this book - just how far one can go in the pursuit for knowledge and how society exploits those perceived as different - seem very topical.
April 29, 2018
I really enjoyed this book! A wonderful set of characters and a great plot. I felt the main character was a well rounded, head strong female lead. The story itself is not something I have come across in my reading before, so it was a refreshingly new idea for me. My main issue with this was that I loved the characters so much I would have loved to have more of a back story for them all and how they banded together, especially Abel and Joe. Definitely think it would have helped make the characters more relatable giving them a more human background as the story itself is a little fantastical.
The layout of this book was also a win for me, with the changing perspectives and the first and third person used. Clearly marked with images at the beginning of each chapter. Very well done.
The layout of this book was also a win for me, with the changing perspectives and the first and third person used. Clearly marked with images at the beginning of each chapter. Very well done.
April 19, 2018
Mim and Alex are part of a travelling carnival show run by Mr Grainger and his wife. Both have been travelling since they were young and as they got older their friendship seems like it could grow to more as they start to notice each other as something more. Then Mr Fox arrives with his Electrickery, philosophy and his inventions and Mim is raised to top billing, leaving Alex behind.
It took me a while to get into this book, it was a bit slow throughout but the prologue adds some suspense which builds to the almost-finale at the end. I found the changing perspectives a little confusing at times and the language made it difficult to picture what was actually happening at first but I got used to it soon enough.
It took me a while to get into this book, it was a bit slow throughout but the prologue adds some suspense which builds to the almost-finale at the end. I found the changing perspectives a little confusing at times and the language made it difficult to picture what was actually happening at first but I got used to it soon enough.
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April 6, 2018My first impression of this book is that it is a romance and that it is about a girl who struggles to show her feelings (love) to a boy called Fox who doesn't really notice her. Therefore this book could be relatable to so many people and maybe even give them some tips ;)
August 28, 2018
Originally posted to I Should Read That
I received this book in exchange for an honest review. This review is spoiler-free.
The Electrical Venus jumped out at me because it is historical young adult fiction -- something I don’t think you see very often. On top of that, the book is set in Georgian England, which is even more of a rarity in YA. Although I didn’t know much about it, I decided to give it a shot.
To be perfectly honest, this book was just not for me. The writing style, the characters, and the story are all just things that I don’t particularly enjoy in books. However, don’t let that sway you because I do think that many people will enjoy The Electrical Venus.
I really liked the fact that this is a historical novel set in an unusual time period for YA. Young adult books can get a little same-y after awhile and it’s so nice to see something fresh and new! It’s an interesting period in time and the inclusion of Doctor Fox and his electricity machine really took advantage of that in the best way. What seems very normal to us would have been a marvel to people of this time and it suited the sideshow setting very well.
I thought the narrative style was interesting, even if it didn’t work for me. There are two point of view characters in this book -- Mim and Alex. Each chapter is told as though they’re speaking to one of the animals in the sideshow’s menagerie. Mim talks to her parrot, who was came with her when Mr. Grainger bought her, while Alex talks to the pig in the menagerie. It was a little strange at first, but you get used to it pretty quickly.
The inclusion of Mim, a mixed race black girl, was refreshing, as some people seem to think that black people just didn’t exist at this period in time -- you rarely get to see diverse casts in historical fiction. She was an interesting character, along with Alex, but I don’t think they’re the kinds of characters I particularly like, nor had the type of romance I usually enjoy. I am a big fan of slow burning romance, which we have in this book, however I don’t like the fact that their issues could have been resolved if they just spoke to each other. The two fight and make up constantly and this just isn’t really my thing.
Overall, The Electrical Venus didn’t really click with me. It’s a hard book to review for that exact reason. However, if you’re looking for books that deal with sex, young romance, or falling for the wrong person, this is a great title to pick up. I think it’s unusual historical setting is very appealing and it’s a fast read.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review. This review is spoiler-free.
The Electrical Venus jumped out at me because it is historical young adult fiction -- something I don’t think you see very often. On top of that, the book is set in Georgian England, which is even more of a rarity in YA. Although I didn’t know much about it, I decided to give it a shot.
To be perfectly honest, this book was just not for me. The writing style, the characters, and the story are all just things that I don’t particularly enjoy in books. However, don’t let that sway you because I do think that many people will enjoy The Electrical Venus.
I really liked the fact that this is a historical novel set in an unusual time period for YA. Young adult books can get a little same-y after awhile and it’s so nice to see something fresh and new! It’s an interesting period in time and the inclusion of Doctor Fox and his electricity machine really took advantage of that in the best way. What seems very normal to us would have been a marvel to people of this time and it suited the sideshow setting very well.
I thought the narrative style was interesting, even if it didn’t work for me. There are two point of view characters in this book -- Mim and Alex. Each chapter is told as though they’re speaking to one of the animals in the sideshow’s menagerie. Mim talks to her parrot, who was came with her when Mr. Grainger bought her, while Alex talks to the pig in the menagerie. It was a little strange at first, but you get used to it pretty quickly.
The inclusion of Mim, a mixed race black girl, was refreshing, as some people seem to think that black people just didn’t exist at this period in time -- you rarely get to see diverse casts in historical fiction. She was an interesting character, along with Alex, but I don’t think they’re the kinds of characters I particularly like, nor had the type of romance I usually enjoy. I am a big fan of slow burning romance, which we have in this book, however I don’t like the fact that their issues could have been resolved if they just spoke to each other. The two fight and make up constantly and this just isn’t really my thing.
Overall, The Electrical Venus didn’t really click with me. It’s a hard book to review for that exact reason. However, if you’re looking for books that deal with sex, young romance, or falling for the wrong person, this is a great title to pick up. I think it’s unusual historical setting is very appealing and it’s a fast read.
August 25, 2019
The Electrical Venus is about a girl called Mim, a boy called Alex and other members of a travelling performing troop. It is about fame and the lack of it, the treatment of women, race, love and knowledge. I enjoyed this book, however I found it was quite rushed and very predictable. Everything happened exactly as I expected it too!
The story is told from two different perspectives; Mims and Alex’s and then sometimes there is a narrative chapter. I did like this change of perspective, however I’m not sure what I thought to them using animals to speak to rather than an internal monologue!
Overall, I found the story quick and enjoyable, but in places rushed and very predictable! Sadly, I think it didn’t quite make a lasting impression!
The story is told from two different perspectives; Mims and Alex’s and then sometimes there is a narrative chapter. I did like this change of perspective, however I’m not sure what I thought to them using animals to speak to rather than an internal monologue!
Overall, I found the story quick and enjoyable, but in places rushed and very predictable! Sadly, I think it didn’t quite make a lasting impression!
April 18, 2018
For my full and lengthier review please check out my blog here:
https://lanaisreading.wordpress.com
Thank you to the publishers for providing me with a finished copy in exchange for an honest opinion.
I truly adored this book in every aspect possible. The story was beautifully written and was so well representative of the characters. This was such a joy to read and I honestly could not put it down. Make sure you pre-order yourselves a copy or get it in-store when it's available. The Plot: This story is about a travelling side-show. It consists of: a talking parrot, a friendly dwarf, a legless angel, a one armed boy and an Electrical Venus. This is a story about prejudice, about Georgian England entertainment, and about finding one's worth.
I have to admit I did not know what to expect going into this book. The blurbdidn't really give away too much so I hadn't know what to expect going into it. However, it was absolutely stunning. I felt as though I really was in Georgian England, what with the writing style and language used. The characters where so real and raw and I honestly was sad to say goodbye to them by the end of the book.
(The following may contain spoilers, read at your own risk...or don't, I'm a sign not the police.)
What I really liked about this book is how the author was not afraid of showing her characters at their core. Nothing is sugar-coated or withheld, they are all real and true, for example Mim. You would think being the protagnoist of the story that she should be painted in a lighter light (nopun-intended) but the author is very much honest about Mim and her thoughts, and I honestly appreciate that. She realised that her worth is not based on how others perceive her as, or how lady-like she is, but by how much she respects herself, and I admire the author so much for including this.
Abel and Joe were lovely additional characters to read about. I especially enjoyed the historical side of this book, learning the way in which people at the time would treat those physically abnormal to them. Alex is also a character I enjoyed to read about, and observe how he grew throughout the novel, and I also really liked the parallels between him and Mr fox.
Mr Fox is a type of character almost every girl has the pleasure (note the sarcasm) to meet at one point in her life, and I think it is so important that he was portrayed here. He did not love Mim for her mind or intelligence, he saw her as an object to display and get attention out of, and I believe it is so important that a character like this has been included as an example (and warning) for all ladies. This book is a perfect example to all young girls that no-one is in charge of your body, except for you, regardless of your race and class.
The final thing that I wanted to talk about before I wrap this review up is the prominent presence of science and knowledge. I honestly think that it is wonderful that the author has included this to encourage young girls to pursue science, whether as a hobby or career. The love that Mim had grown for this knowledge is admirable, and I can't think of a better way to get more girls involved than to create the very enchanting and mesmerising Electrical Venus.
All in all this was a magikal (pun-intended) book and I very much look forward to reading more of Julie Mayhew's work.
https://lanaisreading.wordpress.com
Thank you to the publishers for providing me with a finished copy in exchange for an honest opinion.
I truly adored this book in every aspect possible. The story was beautifully written and was so well representative of the characters. This was such a joy to read and I honestly could not put it down. Make sure you pre-order yourselves a copy or get it in-store when it's available. The Plot: This story is about a travelling side-show. It consists of: a talking parrot, a friendly dwarf, a legless angel, a one armed boy and an Electrical Venus. This is a story about prejudice, about Georgian England entertainment, and about finding one's worth.
I have to admit I did not know what to expect going into this book. The blurbdidn't really give away too much so I hadn't know what to expect going into it. However, it was absolutely stunning. I felt as though I really was in Georgian England, what with the writing style and language used. The characters where so real and raw and I honestly was sad to say goodbye to them by the end of the book.
(The following may contain spoilers, read at your own risk...or don't, I'm a sign not the police.)
What I really liked about this book is how the author was not afraid of showing her characters at their core. Nothing is sugar-coated or withheld, they are all real and true, for example Mim. You would think being the protagnoist of the story that she should be painted in a lighter light (nopun-intended) but the author is very much honest about Mim and her thoughts, and I honestly appreciate that. She realised that her worth is not based on how others perceive her as, or how lady-like she is, but by how much she respects herself, and I admire the author so much for including this.
Abel and Joe were lovely additional characters to read about. I especially enjoyed the historical side of this book, learning the way in which people at the time would treat those physically abnormal to them. Alex is also a character I enjoyed to read about, and observe how he grew throughout the novel, and I also really liked the parallels between him and Mr fox.
Mr Fox is a type of character almost every girl has the pleasure (note the sarcasm) to meet at one point in her life, and I think it is so important that he was portrayed here. He did not love Mim for her mind or intelligence, he saw her as an object to display and get attention out of, and I believe it is so important that a character like this has been included as an example (and warning) for all ladies. This book is a perfect example to all young girls that no-one is in charge of your body, except for you, regardless of your race and class.
The final thing that I wanted to talk about before I wrap this review up is the prominent presence of science and knowledge. I honestly think that it is wonderful that the author has included this to encourage young girls to pursue science, whether as a hobby or career. The love that Mim had grown for this knowledge is admirable, and I can't think of a better way to get more girls involved than to create the very enchanting and mesmerising Electrical Venus.
All in all this was a magikal (pun-intended) book and I very much look forward to reading more of Julie Mayhew's work.
June 4, 2018
This is a charmingly quirky tale of travelling sideshow people and their efforts to entertain the general populace and, most importantly, get coin. With illustrations of handbills that promise the most exotic of treats we get to meet the main players in the novel:
The One Arm'd Boy - Alex suffered a near fatal accident in early childhood and now has only one arm. Raised by the Graingers he has been taught to juggle and perform acrobatic feats for the pleasure of the public.
The Dwaff - Abel is short of stature and light of finger regularly boosting the sideshows earning by picking pockets and rigging games.
The No-Legg'd Brute - Joe has no legs, whether by accident or accident of birth we know not. Despite his appearence and his gruff voice he is a kind and gentle man who performs feats of strength for his slop.
George - An Amazonian Green Parrot whose mimicry knows no bounds and who frequently fails to perform when called upon.
The Girl-Exotic - Sweet Mim, sold to the Grainger's as a baby when her mother couldn't hide her dalliance with, what we assume, was a servant. Coffee coloured skin and a smattering of learning she is the lowest rung on the sideshow ladder. Even the mathematical pig and the dancing geese get better slop than her.
When the show meets up with Dr Sebastian Fox things look to be taking a turn for the better as he introduces them to the delights of Electrickery and their coffers suddenly swell.
You do get drawn in to this peculiar world and the smattering of language from the 18th Century just makes it seem all the more immersive. We follow the fortunes of Mim and Alex as they try to cope with the change in fortunes brought about by the Electrickery and as they each rise and fall in favour time and again. Theirs is a warm friendship that struggles to cope with their adulthood and relative importance to the Graingers and Dr Fox.
Perhaps the best character though is George. He injects the humour in to the book and smoothly interrupts the most sincere soul searching with his outbursts. Albeit in language not suitable for a lady.
This book was so much better than I thought it was going to be with rich characters and a real sense of time and place. There is love, there is peril, there is wealth and there is pecuniary. Most of all there is humanity.
The One Arm'd Boy - Alex suffered a near fatal accident in early childhood and now has only one arm. Raised by the Graingers he has been taught to juggle and perform acrobatic feats for the pleasure of the public.
The Dwaff - Abel is short of stature and light of finger regularly boosting the sideshows earning by picking pockets and rigging games.
The No-Legg'd Brute - Joe has no legs, whether by accident or accident of birth we know not. Despite his appearence and his gruff voice he is a kind and gentle man who performs feats of strength for his slop.
George - An Amazonian Green Parrot whose mimicry knows no bounds and who frequently fails to perform when called upon.
The Girl-Exotic - Sweet Mim, sold to the Grainger's as a baby when her mother couldn't hide her dalliance with, what we assume, was a servant. Coffee coloured skin and a smattering of learning she is the lowest rung on the sideshow ladder. Even the mathematical pig and the dancing geese get better slop than her.
When the show meets up with Dr Sebastian Fox things look to be taking a turn for the better as he introduces them to the delights of Electrickery and their coffers suddenly swell.
You do get drawn in to this peculiar world and the smattering of language from the 18th Century just makes it seem all the more immersive. We follow the fortunes of Mim and Alex as they try to cope with the change in fortunes brought about by the Electrickery and as they each rise and fall in favour time and again. Theirs is a warm friendship that struggles to cope with their adulthood and relative importance to the Graingers and Dr Fox.
Perhaps the best character though is George. He injects the humour in to the book and smoothly interrupts the most sincere soul searching with his outbursts. Albeit in language not suitable for a lady.
This book was so much better than I thought it was going to be with rich characters and a real sense of time and place. There is love, there is peril, there is wealth and there is pecuniary. Most of all there is humanity.
April 19, 2018
The Electrical Venus is the new historical romance from talent writer, actor and novelist Julie Mayhew.
In eighteen-century England Mims is a mixed raced teenager trying to find her place in a traveling group of 'performers'. She is neither black nor white in eighteen century England she is seen as exotic, but that is not enough to be an act, her pet parrot that speaks 4 languages is more interesting than see is.
The only person that truly see any worth in Mims is Alex, the one-armed boxer who have known each other since they were small children. Something is about to change between Mims and Alex when Dr Foxs turn up with a machine that creates "electrickery", and a new show to draw in bigger crowds. He picks Mims to be The Electrical Venus, the show resolves around paying a penny to kiss Mims and feel the shock of love.
But as Mims becomes the star of the show and spends more time with Dr Fox, is the spark between them Love or just electrickery?
The Electrical Venus is split it two narrative which are Mims and Alex point of views, I liked the fact that they were telling their story to their pets. As someone who talks to her dogs, I really like that element.
I have always been fascinated with history, so I enjoyed reading a book based in eighteen century England. I loved how real Julie has made the book feel, even if the treatment of women made the feminist in my very angry.
I admired the way in which Julie dealt with the subject disability (Alex missing his arm) and race. I loved the fact that these factor do not impact how they see each other.
I also don't know if it to do with my age, that sometimes I wanted to shake Mims and set her straight, although this happened less and less as the story continued.
This book was a slow burn for me but I was entertained throughout, I really enjoyed who this story ended I thought it was perfect for the story.
This book reminded me about A Jigsaw of Fire and Stars and Daughter of a Burning City, due to the different mixture of people and traveling performance.
I give this book 3.8 out of 5.
Thanks to Hot Keys Books for sending me this book to read for a honest review.
April 28, 2018
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This is a very sweet book and a pretty quick read. 'The Electrical Venus' definitely lends itself to being more of a romance than any other genre (not always my favourite). But it has the added attraction of being set in a travelling circus in the eighteenth-century, which is setting I find absolutely fascinating. It revolves around our two main characters Mim and Alex, who both have acts in the travelling circus, told from both of their viewpoints and almost in a diary-like format it really gives an insight into both sides of the story. Mim tells her side of the story to her pet parrot and Alex tells his side to one of the pigs who travels with them, it really allows the reader to get behind the romance and understand the thinking on both sides.
Once Mr. Fox turns up with his 'Electrical Venus' act and convinces Mim to be the star of the show the story really starts to move along, picking up pace as it goes. The last quarter of the book really flies by and if anything I wish it kept going for longer rather than ending so suddenly once everything had been wrapped up!
I can't speak for the historical accuracy of the piece, however it is incredibly believable and at no point was I questioning anything that was happening. The setting really lends itself to the story and it creates some fascinating moments that couldn't really be achieved with any other setting, in my opinion.
'The Electrical Venus' is a really lovely read, and perfect to pass by the time with a romance novel to remember.
This is a very sweet book and a pretty quick read. 'The Electrical Venus' definitely lends itself to being more of a romance than any other genre (not always my favourite). But it has the added attraction of being set in a travelling circus in the eighteenth-century, which is setting I find absolutely fascinating. It revolves around our two main characters Mim and Alex, who both have acts in the travelling circus, told from both of their viewpoints and almost in a diary-like format it really gives an insight into both sides of the story. Mim tells her side of the story to her pet parrot and Alex tells his side to one of the pigs who travels with them, it really allows the reader to get behind the romance and understand the thinking on both sides.
Once Mr. Fox turns up with his 'Electrical Venus' act and convinces Mim to be the star of the show the story really starts to move along, picking up pace as it goes. The last quarter of the book really flies by and if anything I wish it kept going for longer rather than ending so suddenly once everything had been wrapped up!
I can't speak for the historical accuracy of the piece, however it is incredibly believable and at no point was I questioning anything that was happening. The setting really lends itself to the story and it creates some fascinating moments that couldn't really be achieved with any other setting, in my opinion.
'The Electrical Venus' is a really lovely read, and perfect to pass by the time with a romance novel to remember.
October 4, 2018
Wonderful historical detail, a 'Showman'-esque setting that will pique interest.
3.5 stars.
A travelling fair in Georgian England. Mim is the lowest of the low, a mixed race adolescent, not even an act, merely a dogsbody. We can see that she and the one-armed Alex, a boxer, have feelings for each other, but the pair only allow their thoughts to be known to their confidantest - the animals they regularly converse with.
When a wealthy new benefactor attempts to lift Mim up and place her centre stage of the fair as a goddess whose kisses give electric shocks to their recipients - the dynamic among the fair crowd changes, and feelings are unearthed.
I liked the language and setting, very reminiscent of other books set during this period. Mim and Alex were likeable, Mim in particular a gauge of racial and class distinction of the time. One scene in particular shocked me, as Mim is forced to kiss whoever wishes to sample her electric lips, one customer sees the results of this on her face.
I felt the story's drive and momentum slowed down when the story moved away from the fair, and personally I didn't like the chapters where Mim and Alex talk to their animals, but as these ended up being integral to the plot I did see their value and realisation.
With shades of the setting and romance of The Greatest Showman, fans may also like to try this book. As an enthusiast for historical fiction, I enjoyed the setting and plot, at the dawn of knowledge on electricity.
For ages 14 and above.
3.5 stars.
A travelling fair in Georgian England. Mim is the lowest of the low, a mixed race adolescent, not even an act, merely a dogsbody. We can see that she and the one-armed Alex, a boxer, have feelings for each other, but the pair only allow their thoughts to be known to their confidantest - the animals they regularly converse with.
When a wealthy new benefactor attempts to lift Mim up and place her centre stage of the fair as a goddess whose kisses give electric shocks to their recipients - the dynamic among the fair crowd changes, and feelings are unearthed.
I liked the language and setting, very reminiscent of other books set during this period. Mim and Alex were likeable, Mim in particular a gauge of racial and class distinction of the time. One scene in particular shocked me, as Mim is forced to kiss whoever wishes to sample her electric lips, one customer sees the results of this on her face.
I felt the story's drive and momentum slowed down when the story moved away from the fair, and personally I didn't like the chapters where Mim and Alex talk to their animals, but as these ended up being integral to the plot I did see their value and realisation.
With shades of the setting and romance of The Greatest Showman, fans may also like to try this book. As an enthusiast for historical fiction, I enjoyed the setting and plot, at the dawn of knowledge on electricity.
For ages 14 and above.
April 10, 2018
Mim, who is being presented as the girl-exotic (she is half black in 18th century England) in the the traveling show she is part of, is struggling with her parrot act. Until she gets the chance to take part in a new act.
Mim has a wonderfully self aware & humorous way of expressing herself. Alex shows how sweet & endearing of a human being he is through his POV. Smile-worthy are the convos and who they have them with in their respective POVs. Also smile-worthy are the thoughts of new, unexpected feelings, between people who have grown up together, now on the cusp of adulthood..
And a 3rd person account, that gives us insight not only on our protagonists, but also the tough life of belonging to a traveling show in that era. Here we enjoy strong, slightly brutal and certainly vivid descriptions. Then with the appearance of Fox, it is as if we'd been holding our breath in anticipation of what he would bring. His electrickery heightening everything. Even though as a character he did not seem to come alive in the story as others.
Honest, the sort of funny that is heartfelt, and full of the melancholy of loneliness, even when you are not alone. Sharing with us the beautiful awkwardness of young love, and weaving its spell to a soul warming delight in its atmosphere. This is a wonderful historical fiction.
Mim has a wonderfully self aware & humorous way of expressing herself. Alex shows how sweet & endearing of a human being he is through his POV. Smile-worthy are the convos and who they have them with in their respective POVs. Also smile-worthy are the thoughts of new, unexpected feelings, between people who have grown up together, now on the cusp of adulthood..
And a 3rd person account, that gives us insight not only on our protagonists, but also the tough life of belonging to a traveling show in that era. Here we enjoy strong, slightly brutal and certainly vivid descriptions. Then with the appearance of Fox, it is as if we'd been holding our breath in anticipation of what he would bring. His electrickery heightening everything. Even though as a character he did not seem to come alive in the story as others.
Honest, the sort of funny that is heartfelt, and full of the melancholy of loneliness, even when you are not alone. Sharing with us the beautiful awkwardness of young love, and weaving its spell to a soul warming delight in its atmosphere. This is a wonderful historical fiction.
April 20, 2018
What an unexpectedly delightful book. It tells the story of Mim, a young mixed race girl living as part of a show troop which includes a one-armed boy, a gentle giant with no legs and a dwarf in 18th century England. The narrative is split between Mim and Alex and each character tells the story by talking to an animal - in Mim's case, George the parrot and for Alex, it is the mathematical pig. This took a bit of getting used to, but it is a fascinating way for the plot to unfold it and really allowed the reader to get under the skin of these characters. Mixed in amongst this are handbills which detail what will be on display and newspaper articles. The plot is simple and well-constructed and the pacing is generally good, although it felt a little bit rushed towards the end. What I think is most impressive here, is that the author has taken marginalised figures from 18th century life and given them a voice. She has taken individuals who are on display because of their differences and shown how they make their own way in the world. It is very compelling and overall, I really enjoyed this book.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
March 26, 2018
I received this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Actual rating 3.5
I'm not quite sure what to say about this one. I liked it but it was nothing particulary amazing and unfortunately it wasn't quite as good for me as the blurb suggests.
I really like Mim, she's a well developed, interesting character and I also enjoyed Alex. They have both had their struggles through life but manage to make the best of them. I loved their relationship and think the romance element of the book was done pretty well.
It was a really quick read too, I didn't find myself getting bored as there was always something happening and I flew through it in 2 sittings- one last night which I forgot to update before going to bed and another this afternoon. I really like books I can get through quickly like this.
The thing that really let this down for me was the writing, it was trying a bit too hard to be edgy YA but came out more like middle grade with a few swear words thrown in. For the record, I'm all for swearing in YA, it makes it far more realistic for me so I actually liked this, it just didn't fit in with the writing style as a whole.
Actual rating 3.5
I'm not quite sure what to say about this one. I liked it but it was nothing particulary amazing and unfortunately it wasn't quite as good for me as the blurb suggests.
I really like Mim, she's a well developed, interesting character and I also enjoyed Alex. They have both had their struggles through life but manage to make the best of them. I loved their relationship and think the romance element of the book was done pretty well.
It was a really quick read too, I didn't find myself getting bored as there was always something happening and I flew through it in 2 sittings- one last night which I forgot to update before going to bed and another this afternoon. I really like books I can get through quickly like this.
The thing that really let this down for me was the writing, it was trying a bit too hard to be edgy YA but came out more like middle grade with a few swear words thrown in. For the record, I'm all for swearing in YA, it makes it far more realistic for me so I actually liked this, it just didn't fit in with the writing style as a whole.
April 19, 2018
** 2.5 stars **
I thought I was going to really enjoy this book and unfortunately ended up being disappointed.
This story follows mixed race Mim who is treated like an animal in her oppressive society, but is chosen by Dr Fox to be ‘the electrical venus’ and gains the headline act in their travelling show but it isn’t all she expected it to be. As well as one armed Alex who struggles with his identity and achieving more than he is expected to be.
Although I enjoyed their relationship to begin with and felt it’s potential, by the end I felt the story was rushed and didn’t flesh it out for me to truly root for them.
I also disliked the characters of Mim who was naive and didn’t develop as the story went on, although I did appreciate the exploration of women’s position in the Georgian era.
One thing I thought was very quirky and unique about this story was how each section was addressed to an animal, such as a parrot or a pig, which I enjoyed and allowed for reflective monologues. However at points the writing did feel immature and unrealistically hyperbolic which meant that I often didn’t enjoy the reading experience.
I thought I was going to really enjoy this book and unfortunately ended up being disappointed.
This story follows mixed race Mim who is treated like an animal in her oppressive society, but is chosen by Dr Fox to be ‘the electrical venus’ and gains the headline act in their travelling show but it isn’t all she expected it to be. As well as one armed Alex who struggles with his identity and achieving more than he is expected to be.
Although I enjoyed their relationship to begin with and felt it’s potential, by the end I felt the story was rushed and didn’t flesh it out for me to truly root for them.
I also disliked the characters of Mim who was naive and didn’t develop as the story went on, although I did appreciate the exploration of women’s position in the Georgian era.
One thing I thought was very quirky and unique about this story was how each section was addressed to an animal, such as a parrot or a pig, which I enjoyed and allowed for reflective monologues. However at points the writing did feel immature and unrealistically hyperbolic which meant that I often didn’t enjoy the reading experience.
April 7, 2018
I’m not always the biggest fan of historical fiction, however reading the synopsis really pulled me into the story and I am glad I requested this book. A coming of age story for Mim, a teenager who is trying to figure out who she is, The Electrical Venus is a gorgeous read.
The characters throughout this book are really well developed, particularly Mim as she develops into the title character, but also Alex too as the book goes on, leading to a really nice finale. If this book is anything, it’s short and sweet and the characters for the amount of pages really are very good.
The story is okay and I feel like it really does have a nice ending to it with moments in the story that really give this book some drama but I feel like the characters are what steals this story and the fact they are characters you rarely see in fiction, makes this an important (for representation) but also an enjoyable read.
(I received an ARC from Netgalley for a honest review).
The characters throughout this book are really well developed, particularly Mim as she develops into the title character, but also Alex too as the book goes on, leading to a really nice finale. If this book is anything, it’s short and sweet and the characters for the amount of pages really are very good.
The story is okay and I feel like it really does have a nice ending to it with moments in the story that really give this book some drama but I feel like the characters are what steals this story and the fact they are characters you rarely see in fiction, makes this an important (for representation) but also an enjoyable read.
(I received an ARC from Netgalley for a honest review).
May 1, 2018
This was a wonderfully quirky drama and love story, embellished with advertising "broadsides" describing the various turns performed by the characters, as well as illustrations for each chapter heading.
The picture drawn of the travelling life in Georgian England was vivid and earthy and the character and development of the heroine was believable and readily engaged my sympathies. The language used felt suitable for the period and soon settled down to something very readable after a slightly challenging opening chapter.
The structure of the story clearly owes a lot to its origins as a radio drama, and the number of monologues in the middle section (albeit relieved by the parrot's timely interjections) did make it drag a little.
However, this was followed by some glorious action and a finale well worth waiting for.
The picture drawn of the travelling life in Georgian England was vivid and earthy and the character and development of the heroine was believable and readily engaged my sympathies. The language used felt suitable for the period and soon settled down to something very readable after a slightly challenging opening chapter.
The structure of the story clearly owes a lot to its origins as a radio drama, and the number of monologues in the middle section (albeit relieved by the parrot's timely interjections) did make it drag a little.
However, this was followed by some glorious action and a finale well worth waiting for.
July 30, 2020
Hmm. An intriguing concept that just didn't work for me. I think it was the tone which put me off, and then switching between narrative viewpoints meant you could never get used to the tone.
Another reviewer described it as 'mystical'. Not at all. It's not mysterious and magically ambiguous. The acts are done through skill, trickery and science. It's a very earthy book.
Who would I reccomend it to? Perhaps age 13+. Though not to teachers, it's a bit bawdy and sweary. But the sentimental ideas about true love and unrequited misunderstandings along with the young protagonists indicate a teenage audience.
Another reviewer described it as 'mystical'. Not at all. It's not mysterious and magically ambiguous. The acts are done through skill, trickery and science. It's a very earthy book.
Who would I reccomend it to? Perhaps age 13+. Though not to teachers, it's a bit bawdy and sweary. But the sentimental ideas about true love and unrequited misunderstandings along with the young protagonists indicate a teenage audience.
May 6, 2018
I just finished reading this sweet YA novel and I have to say, it was pretty emotional. I was sent this book by Hot Key Books and I am so glad. But where to begin. So, ‘The Electrical Venus’ by Julie Mayhew is a YA novel, I wouldn’t consider it fantasy but it definitely has fantastical elements I think a fantasy lover would like.
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Love
Lauren_V
To read the rest of the review, please visit: https://awritersdesires.wordpress.com...
Love
Lauren_V
June 26, 2018
A wonderfully empowering read
I'll admit to being drawn to this book by its cover and it certainly lived up to my initial high judgement.
I love how the characters learn how to own and love themselves, perceived flaws and all.
Mim is a wonderful example of female empowerment and I was pleased that Alex was given the freedom to enjoy sexual freedom without judgement.
Julie Mayhew manages to create an evocative setting without blasting us with reams of descriptive passages to wade through. In fact I swear I could smell that cow's head!!
I'll admit to being drawn to this book by its cover and it certainly lived up to my initial high judgement.
I love how the characters learn how to own and love themselves, perceived flaws and all.
Mim is a wonderful example of female empowerment and I was pleased that Alex was given the freedom to enjoy sexual freedom without judgement.
Julie Mayhew manages to create an evocative setting without blasting us with reams of descriptive passages to wade through. In fact I swear I could smell that cow's head!!
April 15, 2018
It took me a little while to get into this book but about halfway in I was pretty invested in the storyline. I love that my favourite character is a parrot! The last 60 pages were probably the most gripping, and I’d say this is maybe more of a 3.5, but it just wasn’t my favourite. I enjoyed the writing style though and all of the extra additions such as the articles, posters and drawings. It was pretty short but it was just the right length.
July 23, 2018
This was a DNF from me after reading 67%. I couldn't get into the flow of the book. I liked the characters and I was gripped at the start but I always felt like an observer of the story, not taking part in it. Also two DNF's in a row... I might be in a reading slump :( I have read other Julie Mayhew books and loved them!
January 29, 2023
Words cannot describe how much I love this book like Mim and Alex invented romance. I like how the main theme of this book (love) is written as something electrical and something that you cannot run away from it was just so beautifully written. Deffo gonna read it again.
April 11, 2018
REVIEW TO COME
April 19, 2018
4.5*
I think The Electrical Venus will be an underrated gem for the few who read it. I’d not heard of the book before and stumbled upon it, quite by chance, on the Readers First website. I’m so pleased I did!
The story takes place in Georgian England, following a travelling circus. Mim, a mixed-raced girl, begins life there as a somewhat third-rate act. Until the mysterious Sebastian Theodore Fox arrives and presents an opportunity for both the circus and for Mim...
There were three very distinctive perspectives. First, the narrator’s (who gives a lyrical overview). Second, Mim’s. And third, Alex’s. I enjoyed all three and found the writing to be strangely unique.
Never was I bored by this book and, for anybody who likes the setting of a circus, I couldn’t recommend it enough. A quick read, with a wonderful dose of love and electrickery!
I think The Electrical Venus will be an underrated gem for the few who read it. I’d not heard of the book before and stumbled upon it, quite by chance, on the Readers First website. I’m so pleased I did!
The story takes place in Georgian England, following a travelling circus. Mim, a mixed-raced girl, begins life there as a somewhat third-rate act. Until the mysterious Sebastian Theodore Fox arrives and presents an opportunity for both the circus and for Mim...
There were three very distinctive perspectives. First, the narrator’s (who gives a lyrical overview). Second, Mim’s. And third, Alex’s. I enjoyed all three and found the writing to be strangely unique.
Never was I bored by this book and, for anybody who likes the setting of a circus, I couldn’t recommend it enough. A quick read, with a wonderful dose of love and electrickery!
June 26, 2018
Review to come. (hopefully!)
July 15, 2018
I’m officially DNFing this book, because it isn’t worth my time. I hate the formatting, the author’s voice and writing style, the characters, the story arc, pretty much everything.
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