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Her Freaks #1
Circus Save Me
It's been over thirty years since the bombs dropped that almost decimated the planet. The fallout changed not only the animals and the landscape, but the people too. Freaks they called them; outcasts of society and hunted for their powers. The Circus has the only people to openly flaunt them, offering a haven for the lost and the damned.
Rhea works for a powerful man in the male-dominated world and she is treated no better than a slave.
Until one day she saves a stranger and it changes her life forever.
Will Rhea find her place within the freaks, or will this be her final show?
Rhea works for a powerful man in the male-dominated world and she is treated no better than a slave.
Until one day she saves a stranger and it changes her life forever.
Will Rhea find her place within the freaks, or will this be her final show?
260 pages, ebook
First published November 1, 2018
308 people are currently reading
1043 people want to read
About the author
Erin O'Kane
65 books487 followersErin O'Kane is an independent author from the UK. She used to work within healthcare, but now is able to follow her dream as a full time author. Writing is her escape and a dream she never thought possible until she was given a push from her friends and family.
She has an addiction to coffee, Lucozade and baked goods. When not writing she will be found on adventures with her husband, reading a book or watching bad romance movies.
She has an addiction to coffee, Lucozade and baked goods. When not writing she will be found on adventures with her husband, reading a book or watching bad romance movies.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 147 reviews
June 29, 2021
2.5 disappointed stars....
The plot sounded so fun when I read it (and it could have been soo, so fun!)
But, alas, that didn't happen.
This book was so RUSHED! I don't think I've ever read a book that was as rushed as this one, it felt like the author was trying to finish it as fast as possible. Everything that happened should have taken at least 3, 4 books.
The characters had potential, but I didn't have time to begin to really like them.
No chemistry, although the possibility was there.
The plot was interesting, but again, there were 3 main plots in this 1 book, so I couldn't really enjoy any of them.
The world seems interesting, I really love the idea of this book, but I didn't really have the time to actually enjoy and discover anything.
The writing was decent, but I can't say for sure, way too many things were happening at the same time.
So, 2.5 stars for the potential and everything that could have been. Frankly, it deserves 2 stars, not 3, just because I was so disappointed at the end.
Oh, and let's not forget the ending. I didn't even realize the book was about to finish, I went to the next page and saw the Acknowledgments page, it was a bit shocking.
All in all, I leave you with the famous (infamous?) quote: I'm not mad, I'm just disappointed.
The plot sounded so fun when I read it (and it could have been soo, so fun!)
But, alas, that didn't happen.
This book was so RUSHED! I don't think I've ever read a book that was as rushed as this one, it felt like the author was trying to finish it as fast as possible. Everything that happened should have taken at least 3, 4 books.
The characters had potential, but I didn't have time to begin to really like them.
No chemistry, although the possibility was there.
The plot was interesting, but again, there were 3 main plots in this 1 book, so I couldn't really enjoy any of them.
The world seems interesting, I really love the idea of this book, but I didn't really have the time to actually enjoy and discover anything.
The writing was decent, but I can't say for sure, way too many things were happening at the same time.
So, 2.5 stars for the potential and everything that could have been. Frankly, it deserves 2 stars, not 3, just because I was so disappointed at the end.
Oh, and let's not forget the ending. I didn't even realize the book was about to finish, I went to the next page and saw the Acknowledgments page, it was a bit shocking.
All in all, I leave you with the famous (infamous?) quote: I'm not mad, I'm just disappointed.
November 21, 2018
I put off writing this review for two weeks because, in all honesty, I was a little disappointed. I’ve read other books by Knight (never O’Kane’s though) and may have gone into Circus Save Me with too high an expectation brought on by those other reading experiences. That’s not to say that Circus Save Me is bad, I did finish it after all, it’s just that there was one glaringly obvious disappointment and that was Rhea.
Rhea is used to having no say in her life, she lives in a world where women number 1 to every 100 men, and where women are hunted, used, and owned. In her world, to be different is to be outcast, and to be different and a woman is unimaginable. After saving a stranger her life changes and she finds herself a free woman working in the circus. And for me, that’s when I started to get annoyed. As we’re being introduced to the performers of the circus, Rhea is having special snowflake moment after special snowflake moment. That animal doesn’t like people, that’s okay, Rhea is an animal whisperer. That person gets into blinding out of control rages, no worries, Rhea can calm them with only her voice and presence. Accidentally catches alight (I mean, come on, they’re making it too easy), everything’s fine, Rhea is a fire whisperer - well not really but spoilers. And then there’s the fact that Rhea has experienced firsthand the dangers of the world she lives in, she knows women are hunted, she’s warned not to go out on her own, and yet she does, repeatedly. And EVERY SINGLE TIME something bad happens. By the end, I wanted to reach into the book and shake some sense into her.
Right, now that I’ve got that off my chest, onto the positives.
O’Kane and Knight have created an interesting world. It’s a very bleak world for women, but it’s full of diverse characters and plenty of obstacles for them to overcome. The different types of abilities adds spice to the story and a little bit of sparkle. And the plot was fast paced enough that it kept me turning the pages until the end.
This is a medium burn reverse harem, with a I-Can’t-Believe-She’d-Still-Be-A-Virgin protagonist who gets tossed from trigger worthy scenes to steamy scenes, and no cliffhanger. I will be unlikely to read any other books in the series due to the upstagemanship of the protagonist and the plot holes, but I implore you to make up your own mind.
Rhea is used to having no say in her life, she lives in a world where women number 1 to every 100 men, and where women are hunted, used, and owned. In her world, to be different is to be outcast, and to be different and a woman is unimaginable. After saving a stranger her life changes and she finds herself a free woman working in the circus. And for me, that’s when I started to get annoyed. As we’re being introduced to the performers of the circus, Rhea is having special snowflake moment after special snowflake moment. That animal doesn’t like people, that’s okay, Rhea is an animal whisperer. That person gets into blinding out of control rages, no worries, Rhea can calm them with only her voice and presence. Accidentally catches alight (I mean, come on, they’re making it too easy), everything’s fine, Rhea is a fire whisperer - well not really but spoilers. And then there’s the fact that Rhea has experienced firsthand the dangers of the world she lives in, she knows women are hunted, she’s warned not to go out on her own, and yet she does, repeatedly. And EVERY SINGLE TIME something bad happens. By the end, I wanted to reach into the book and shake some sense into her.
Right, now that I’ve got that off my chest, onto the positives.
O’Kane and Knight have created an interesting world. It’s a very bleak world for women, but it’s full of diverse characters and plenty of obstacles for them to overcome. The different types of abilities adds spice to the story and a little bit of sparkle. And the plot was fast paced enough that it kept me turning the pages until the end.
This is a medium burn reverse harem, with a I-Can’t-Believe-She’d-Still-Be-A-Virgin protagonist who gets tossed from trigger worthy scenes to steamy scenes, and no cliffhanger. I will be unlikely to read any other books in the series due to the upstagemanship of the protagonist and the plot holes, but I implore you to make up your own mind.
March 3, 2023
I enjoyed this a lot and it was an intriguing beginning to the series. It’s a medium-burn reverse harem set in a bleak post-apocalyptic landscape. A war has decimated the planet and the fallout has caused mutations in the now mostly male populace which outnumber the females 100-1.
Rhea is a female trying to survive under a cruel master this new-world isn’t kind to females so she tries to keep her head down and survive the best way she knows how. She’s always known she was different but to be labelled the freak she is would place a target firmly on her head. Not able to stand by whilst others are unfairly targeted she places herself in danger earning herself some swift reprisals. Now rescued by these so-called freaks Rhea finds for the first time in her life with the ability to embrace exactly who she is.
I loved the whole circus idea and found this an imaginative easy read. A adored Rhea as a character and felt all of the introduced harem here was distinct in their individual personality’s. We have Nix stoic silent and strong but the protector of the group. Rex is the one that relies on his instincts attune with his animistic self. Jesse is all laughter and boyish charm whilst Blain is the venom and rage. Finally, we have Alcide the ringmaster and puppeteer. Every one of them brings something different and Rhea finds herself falling for them all equally.
We have danger and persecution from outside forces, some added internal strife by Rhea’s sudden addition to the family. This all cultivates in a dramatic showdown that brings them all closer together as a solid unit. This didn’t end in a dramatic cliffhanger but I’m still excited to explore where this will go next and despite this one being of medium burn and heat, there was some definite chemistry combined with lots of building tension. This was an interesting start that easily managed to pull me into the unfolding narrative
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
June 3, 2022
This was a fun and interesting start to the trilogy. I didn't exactly enjoy the instalove aspect here mostly because of the heroine's background. She seemed to fall in with this group of strangers way too quickly given her past history of being owned. There were also a few scenes one after the other where she is attacked and it was a bit too much for me. However watching her learn and accept herself was pretty awesome especially once she began to test herself and all her skills. After the events of thirty years ago not everyone who survived remained as they were, some like Spiderman, gain special abilities. There heroine has a real interesting talent of changing her form/body into whatever it needs at the time to protect her. Drowning in the sea brings on gills, falling from staggering heights and she sprouts feathers. Such a cool talent that it makes me sad to realize her life of servitude was unnecessary if she only believed in herself or thought to fight her way out. As a mutated human (freak) not everyone is accepting of them and their talents. In fact they are often ostracized, looked down upon and often attacked just for being themselves. No matter the apocalyptic scenario the biggest threat is always other humans and this story is no different. Looking forward to what's next for this crew and what dangers will arise to threaten their happiness next!
August 14, 2023
This was just bad
This book hits all of my book triggers- lack of world building, lack of character development, stilted dialogue, unrealistic reactions and relationships, info dumps rather than actual storytelling, contrived and painfully obvious "plot twists", mixed tenses, grammar issues, repetitive flogging of a concept the reader has already been beaten over the head with.... this was bad from top to bottom. The part that irked me the most though, was the mishandling of emotional trauma. Someone raised a slave learns to trust in 3 days? Someone still broken is self aware enough to monologue about his broken past and its impact on the present, but not self aware enough to do anything about it? From abject fear of sex to 5 trysts in a week? From drudge to the epitome of every man's dreams and beloved by all animals... again, in a week? Honestly, there was so much wrong with this, I don't think an editor would've done any good, and if there were beta readers then shame on them.
This book hits all of my book triggers- lack of world building, lack of character development, stilted dialogue, unrealistic reactions and relationships, info dumps rather than actual storytelling, contrived and painfully obvious "plot twists", mixed tenses, grammar issues, repetitive flogging of a concept the reader has already been beaten over the head with.... this was bad from top to bottom. The part that irked me the most though, was the mishandling of emotional trauma. Someone raised a slave learns to trust in 3 days? Someone still broken is self aware enough to monologue about his broken past and its impact on the present, but not self aware enough to do anything about it? From abject fear of sex to 5 trysts in a week? From drudge to the epitome of every man's dreams and beloved by all animals... again, in a week? Honestly, there was so much wrong with this, I don't think an editor would've done any good, and if there were beta readers then shame on them.
August 19, 2020
I love all the guys in the harem and the post-apocalyptic circus setting of the book, but the relationships between the characters were very shallow, and they all felt in love for each other way too easily, especially with Rhea's abused background and the dystopian society.
Blain was an asshole all the time just to be an asshole, and it got pretty irritating after half the book. I understand that he had a bad background that is later revealed, but you would think that he'd learn be more careful with his words.
Alcide the circus owner also kept trying to push everyone's freak powers all the time without common safety measures which was honestly insane. For example, His reasoning was just that everyone needed to push themselves further as quick as possible to protect themselves in case of an attack - pretty weak logic IMO for such harsh training measures.
I also thought that the threat of kidnapping and rape as a breeder got a bit repetitive after a while. Yes, it's a real danger in this dystopian world with few females, but there are more ways to lure Rhea off other than just hitting her in the head and having her wake up chained.
And Rhea herself... was a rather magical Mary Sue. Almost everyone immediately loves her except if they're obviously villainous in the book. Fluffy the mutant lion hated everyone except Rex, but Rhea was immediately able to cuddle with him upon first meeting. Nixon the giant would get in these huge rages that nobody could control (even Alcide with his charming abilities?), but on first meeting, Rhea went up to him and calmed him down. She would get herself into trouble, but she'd always show some new magical ability to save herself in the nick of time, or one of the guys would manage to track her down before anything serious happened. I'm also very skeptical how she could manage to live 20+ years and still remain a virgin in this dystopian world....
The giant mess of a hunter battle at the end of the book was just too much too fast. So many characters were killed off and severely injured, but I didn't feel that much empathy. The "redemption" of
I was pretty meh about this book as a whole, but was especially underwhelmed by the conclusion of this book with the hunter battle. The timing of the intimate scenes and the scenes in general were also a bit awkward and not that steamy. I will not be continuing this series.
Blain was an asshole all the time just to be an asshole, and it got pretty irritating after half the book. I understand that he had a bad background that is later revealed, but you would think that he'd learn be more careful with his words.
Alcide the circus owner also kept trying to push everyone's freak powers all the time without common safety measures which was honestly insane. For example, His reasoning was just that everyone needed to push themselves further as quick as possible to protect themselves in case of an attack - pretty weak logic IMO for such harsh training measures.
I also thought that the threat of kidnapping and rape as a breeder got a bit repetitive after a while. Yes, it's a real danger in this dystopian world with few females, but there are more ways to lure Rhea off other than just hitting her in the head and having her wake up chained.
And Rhea herself... was a rather magical Mary Sue. Almost everyone immediately loves her except if they're obviously villainous in the book. Fluffy the mutant lion hated everyone except Rex, but Rhea was immediately able to cuddle with him upon first meeting. Nixon the giant would get in these huge rages that nobody could control (even Alcide with his charming abilities?), but on first meeting, Rhea went up to him and calmed him down. She would get herself into trouble, but she'd always show some new magical ability to save herself in the nick of time, or one of the guys would manage to track her down before anything serious happened. I'm also very skeptical how she could manage to live 20+ years and still remain a virgin in this dystopian world....
The giant mess of a hunter battle at the end of the book was just too much too fast. So many characters were killed off and severely injured, but I didn't feel that much empathy. The "redemption" of
I was pretty meh about this book as a whole, but was especially underwhelmed by the conclusion of this book with the hunter battle. The timing of the intimate scenes and the scenes in general were also a bit awkward and not that steamy. I will not be continuing this series.
November 2, 2021
Circus Save Me by K.A. Knight
I Give this Book a 4.5/5 Star Rating, Listing as 4.
Cliffhanger(?): Can be read as a Standalone actually or a HFN, but it’s clearly not over ☺️
Relationship Type: RH> Reverse Harem- MFMMMM
M/M(?): No.
Heat: Heat is not a focus within this book, so as of right now heat is lower cause the plot is more important, 3/5. Slow-burn-ish.
Romance: 4/5
Pacing: Mid.
Drama: 4/5
Suspense: 3-3.5/5, at some point things are obvious to the reader but not so much to the characters themselves.
The concept for this book is pretty good, I tend to not read Circus themed books very often because they tend to be written cheaply. This held my attention very well, I didn’t even know this series existed until I saw promotions for the third and final book.
I Give this Book a 4.5/5 Star Rating, Listing as 4.
Cliffhanger(?): Can be read as a Standalone actually or a HFN, but it’s clearly not over ☺️
Relationship Type: RH> Reverse Harem- MFMMMM
M/M(?): No.
Heat: Heat is not a focus within this book, so as of right now heat is lower cause the plot is more important, 3/5. Slow-burn-ish.
Romance: 4/5
Pacing: Mid.
Drama: 4/5
Suspense: 3-3.5/5, at some point things are obvious to the reader but not so much to the characters themselves.
The concept for this book is pretty good, I tend to not read Circus themed books very often because they tend to be written cheaply. This held my attention very well, I didn’t even know this series existed until I saw promotions for the third and final book.
January 7, 2022
Holy hell. This book was everything I had hoped it would be. I'm a sucker for books that contain circus elements, and this book was absolutely that. Add in an intense reverse harem?! There is a very unique storyline involving a lower population of women resulting in them being kept as slaves and breeders. That's where our mc Rhea comes in. Her journey is so very important in this book.
This has a slow-burn reverse harem with a diverse group of men. Each of these men has such an unique & intense personality in such a great way. There's the typical angsty character - Blain who is slower to come around to our MC Rhea. Jesse - who is the first to show interest and make an impact on Rhea. Rex - who relates more to animals than people is next on the list to form an attachment to sweet Rhea. Alcide - the ringmaster - who tries to keep constant control and separation... and then sweet sweet lovable giant Nixon.
ALL of the characters are broken and in pain in some way. They all have trauma. But they all open their heart and trust to each other.
I won't give away spoilers, but this entire storyline is unique and so damn good.
This has a slow-burn reverse harem with a diverse group of men. Each of these men has such an unique & intense personality in such a great way. There's the typical angsty character - Blain who is slower to come around to our MC Rhea. Jesse - who is the first to show interest and make an impact on Rhea. Rex - who relates more to animals than people is next on the list to form an attachment to sweet Rhea. Alcide - the ringmaster - who tries to keep constant control and separation... and then sweet sweet lovable giant Nixon.
ALL of the characters are broken and in pain in some way. They all have trauma. But they all open their heart and trust to each other.
I won't give away spoilers, but this entire storyline is unique and so damn good.
May 7, 2019
DNF 72% While there was good editing for grammatical errors, the story was shite. No character development, world building, relationship growth...nada. It was repetitive, several instances occurring multiple times over. Overall juvenile writing style.
Seriously confused as to how this received so many 5 stars....
Seriously confused as to how this received so many 5 stars....
July 15, 2019
Never cared for the circus until now!! Rhea is only lucky gal. Where’s my Jesse or Rex?? And someone please get me my own fluffy!!
June 19, 2024
“i believe in destiny, always have, and you, Rhea? you’re ours”
5 guys 1 girl🤭
2/5🌶️
perfect start to the trilogy!!
my full review will be on the “Her Freaks” complete bind up❤️
5 guys 1 girl🤭
2/5🌶️
perfect start to the trilogy!!
my full review will be on the “Her Freaks” complete bind up❤️
October 31, 2018
It's been 30 years since the bombs dropped. The modern world ended and those who survived lived in a much different world. Humans were decimated and for some reason, women were hit harder than men. Far outnumbered women should have been cherished but instead became property, lesser slaves, mistreated. The lands, animals, and even some people were mutated. Those people became outcasts, labeled freaks. Rhea lives as a man's property, she is also hiding a secret, her powers. Until one day the circus comes to town. She ends up stepping in to save not one, but two of the performers and exposes herself in more ways than one. Her life is forfeit unless she can escape with the show and find a place amidst her own. If she's lucky, she may even find a family, love.
Circus Save Me is a post-apocalyptic dystopian RH. It's also one of the most original books I have come across in a long while. A creative new spin on the original freak-show concept, KA Knight has assembled some of the most eccentric, authentic characters ever brought together for a harem. They are also some of the most likable men in any of the books as well. Their vulnerability and love for one another as family shines through on every page (even the one who has a bit of a grumpy streak). The image of these enormous, incredibly strong men who are shunned, damaged, have trouble speaking up, relate to animals more than people, and only feel comfortable within the safety of the tents is touching. That Rhea manages to connect with each one so quickly and makes them feel worthy is a gift. It makes their connection so emotional.
While I loved the world-building and character-building I wasn't crazy about everything. Blaine crossed the line with his verbal abuse, the other female performer was too predictable, and Rhea ended up in near-rape situations too often. However, the other men made Blaine tolerable, the female issue is resolved, and hopefully, Rhea starts using her common sense and powers to avoid constant danger. The 'freak' animals were all huge positives. I unexpectedly love, love, loved them all.
Overall, this was such an entertaining read and I look forward to more adventures under the big top with Rhea and her men!
Circus Save Me is a post-apocalyptic dystopian RH. It's also one of the most original books I have come across in a long while. A creative new spin on the original freak-show concept, KA Knight has assembled some of the most eccentric, authentic characters ever brought together for a harem. They are also some of the most likable men in any of the books as well. Their vulnerability and love for one another as family shines through on every page (even the one who has a bit of a grumpy streak). The image of these enormous, incredibly strong men who are shunned, damaged, have trouble speaking up, relate to animals more than people, and only feel comfortable within the safety of the tents is touching. That Rhea manages to connect with each one so quickly and makes them feel worthy is a gift. It makes their connection so emotional.
While I loved the world-building and character-building I wasn't crazy about everything. Blaine crossed the line with his verbal abuse, the other female performer was too predictable, and Rhea ended up in near-rape situations too often. However, the other men made Blaine tolerable, the female issue is resolved, and hopefully, Rhea starts using her common sense and powers to avoid constant danger. The 'freak' animals were all huge positives. I unexpectedly love, love, loved them all.
Overall, this was such an entertaining read and I look forward to more adventures under the big top with Rhea and her men!
January 15, 2019
*I received a free copy of this book which I voluntarily chose to write an honest review for.
Welcome to an amazingly written post-apocalyptic world that changes life as we know it completely. Rhea is a woman that is pretty much a slave but her life changes one day when she uses the powers she keeps hidden to save a man she does not even know. This almost gets her killed before it is all said and done but instead she is taken in by the Circus after much pleading. This places her in a place with people like her in a way and we follow as they all learn to be around each other while also learning their powers. Attacks are quite common and I cannot wait to see what happens next after the way this one ends. If you like post-apocalyptic worlds with magic then you might like this one. I really liked it so I give it 4/5 stars.
Welcome to an amazingly written post-apocalyptic world that changes life as we know it completely. Rhea is a woman that is pretty much a slave but her life changes one day when she uses the powers she keeps hidden to save a man she does not even know. This almost gets her killed before it is all said and done but instead she is taken in by the Circus after much pleading. This places her in a place with people like her in a way and we follow as they all learn to be around each other while also learning their powers. Attacks are quite common and I cannot wait to see what happens next after the way this one ends. If you like post-apocalyptic worlds with magic then you might like this one. I really liked it so I give it 4/5 stars.
October 30, 2021
Well, I couldn’t put the damn book down! This was a really great read. Wasn’t sure what to expect after the opening which sets the post WW3 context. I was a bit worried there would be a political undertone but it quickly flipped on its head and sank deeply into introducing the characters in a pretty explosive way. Great chemistry between the characters. I’m totally in love with all the guys (even the douche!). Such a great, action packed read. I’d call this medium burn RH. I thoroughly enjoyed the ride and can’t wait to jump back on for book 2.
December 10, 2018
I'll admit, I really enjoyed this storyline and the interesting, quirky characters, Interesting worldbuilding, which suited the plot really well. A couple minor errors, but I read right over them. Not much offered in the way of surprises (it's easy to guess the bad guys), but the story, while cliched, was fun. A nice change of pace, I'd read another book if the authors offer this as a series.
September 8, 2024
3 Stars because it was a smooth and quick read, there was some character development and I love circus, fantasy and dystopias and this book had all three.
Some mild spoilers ahead
However, while the idea and the setting were interesting and had a lot of potential, the world building was superficial and there were some huge plot holes and inconsistencies that I just couldn't overlook. A lot of things that are happening and actions by the main character and others don't make sense within the setting.
The circus rescues the mc, who is a slave, from her owner but then stays near that town for several more days even though there was a constant threat that the townspeople would attack and her owner claim her back. And there is no reason for them not to move on or at least no reason is ever given.
We also learn that women are very scarce in this world and there are just a few women in the whole town. Yet the mc is a 22 year old virgin and women who are infertile are killed. That makes no sense because, sadly, the men would still find a use for them, even if they can't bear children. Especially the way most men are described.
The actions and reactions of the mc are also often implausible and don't match her upbringing and experiences. We are told that she has always been owned by men and has learned to be submissive and not raise unwanted attention. But she is doing the opposite during the whole story. And while she always stresses that men are scary and dangerous and she can't trust anyone, she immediately trusts various men at the circus. And the first night when she wakes up after being rescued, she is alone and doesn't know where she is and what other people are there besides her rescuers and whether they are trustworthy. But she still leaves the tent alone and wanders around the camp. She also leaves the camp alone several times even though it's dangerous, and it never ends well.
This would be less stupid if she could at least defend herself and didn't spend the majority of the book being a damsel in distress. That was especially annoying since there was no need for her to be quite that helpless as she had a very powerful gift. But even though she is a very special snowflake and incredibly powerful, she regularly forgets to use her gift and has hardly ever practised using it. That is hard to believe because, according to her inner monologue, she is spirited, feisty and defiant and always has to suppress that. So even if she had to hide her gift in public, it would make sense that she had trained with it in private to be able to defend herself. Especially since it would have been possible to practice some of her abilities undetected. The mc came into her power towards the end of the book and started to stand up and fight using her gift. That was a relief and a reason for me to give this 3 stars.
The insta-attraction the mc felt to the men in the circus was a bit annoying. She went from being wary and scared of all men to feeling love and lust for several men she just met and calling them "my guys" within days. I have read and enjoyed reverse harem stories before, but this just felt off and rushed given the mc's background and experiences.
I still really liked the chemistry she had with three of them, which was very different with regard to their individual personalities. With the other two, I didn't feel there was anything romantic or any sexual attraction between them. They felt more like father figures or protectors to her, so it was weird to read about her kissing them.
So, all in all, while this book was OK to read, I will not continue this series.
Some mild spoilers ahead
However, while the idea and the setting were interesting and had a lot of potential, the world building was superficial and there were some huge plot holes and inconsistencies that I just couldn't overlook. A lot of things that are happening and actions by the main character and others don't make sense within the setting.
The circus rescues the mc, who is a slave, from her owner but then stays near that town for several more days even though there was a constant threat that the townspeople would attack and her owner claim her back. And there is no reason for them not to move on or at least no reason is ever given.
We also learn that women are very scarce in this world and there are just a few women in the whole town. Yet the mc is a 22 year old virgin and women who are infertile are killed. That makes no sense because, sadly, the men would still find a use for them, even if they can't bear children. Especially the way most men are described.
The actions and reactions of the mc are also often implausible and don't match her upbringing and experiences. We are told that she has always been owned by men and has learned to be submissive and not raise unwanted attention. But she is doing the opposite during the whole story. And while she always stresses that men are scary and dangerous and she can't trust anyone, she immediately trusts various men at the circus. And the first night when she wakes up after being rescued, she is alone and doesn't know where she is and what other people are there besides her rescuers and whether they are trustworthy. But she still leaves the tent alone and wanders around the camp. She also leaves the camp alone several times even though it's dangerous, and it never ends well.
This would be less stupid if she could at least defend herself and didn't spend the majority of the book being a damsel in distress. That was especially annoying since there was no need for her to be quite that helpless as she had a very powerful gift. But even though she is a very special snowflake and incredibly powerful, she regularly forgets to use her gift and has hardly ever practised using it. That is hard to believe because, according to her inner monologue, she is spirited, feisty and defiant and always has to suppress that. So even if she had to hide her gift in public, it would make sense that she had trained with it in private to be able to defend herself. Especially since it would have been possible to practice some of her abilities undetected. The mc came into her power towards the end of the book and started to stand up and fight using her gift. That was a relief and a reason for me to give this 3 stars.
The insta-attraction the mc felt to the men in the circus was a bit annoying. She went from being wary and scared of all men to feeling love and lust for several men she just met and calling them "my guys" within days. I have read and enjoyed reverse harem stories before, but this just felt off and rushed given the mc's background and experiences.
I still really liked the chemistry she had with three of them, which was very different with regard to their individual personalities. With the other two, I didn't feel there was anything romantic or any sexual attraction between them. They felt more like father figures or protectors to her, so it was weird to read about her kissing them.
So, all in all, while this book was OK to read, I will not continue this series.
November 8, 2018
Not Perfect But Fun And Exciting
I love paranormal books set in the circus. I have read several but I think this might be the first dystopian combined with the circus. There was a lot to love about this book. Primarily, the characters both freak and furry. I love books with animals as solid secondary characters and this book has them. They were awesome! Another aspect I liked was the uniqueness. Don't get me wrong, there are tons of dystopian novels where there are a lot less women than men due to reasons. I guess because of the circus setting it felt different. Anyway, I loved it. Also, the mutations were fun and interesting.
******** Mild Spoilers *******
What I didn't like is women were treated terribly. This I understand but with the exception of some factions, breeding didn't seem to be much of a concern. There is one female to every hundred males...that would be an issue. Also there is mention of women selling themselves or being brutalized but various statement made it seem like lust wasn't a driving factor. For example, one of the factions trying to breed women killed the ones that weren't able to conceive. Sure, they were crazy but you would think that with so few women and so many men that they would be too valuable to kill indiscriminately. Additionally, the h who seems to be very attractive is able to remain pure through her slavery. Instead she is used as a work horse, given almost nothing and abused. I get there is hate for ridiculous differences. I would understand women in this situation being used for breeding or being sold as s#x slaves but the amount of contempt from a majority of the males didn't make sense since I would think some would still have the drive to find a mate and have a family. I guess, for me, it would have worked better with a little bit more world building especially for the main character's time before joining the circus.
I would definitely recommend this book!
I love paranormal books set in the circus. I have read several but I think this might be the first dystopian combined with the circus. There was a lot to love about this book. Primarily, the characters both freak and furry. I love books with animals as solid secondary characters and this book has them. They were awesome! Another aspect I liked was the uniqueness. Don't get me wrong, there are tons of dystopian novels where there are a lot less women than men due to reasons. I guess because of the circus setting it felt different. Anyway, I loved it. Also, the mutations were fun and interesting.
******** Mild Spoilers *******
What I didn't like is women were treated terribly. This I understand but with the exception of some factions, breeding didn't seem to be much of a concern. There is one female to every hundred males...that would be an issue. Also there is mention of women selling themselves or being brutalized but various statement made it seem like lust wasn't a driving factor. For example, one of the factions trying to breed women killed the ones that weren't able to conceive. Sure, they were crazy but you would think that with so few women and so many men that they would be too valuable to kill indiscriminately. Additionally, the h who seems to be very attractive is able to remain pure through her slavery. Instead she is used as a work horse, given almost nothing and abused. I get there is hate for ridiculous differences. I would understand women in this situation being used for breeding or being sold as s#x slaves but the amount of contempt from a majority of the males didn't make sense since I would think some would still have the drive to find a mate and have a family. I guess, for me, it would have worked better with a little bit more world building especially for the main character's time before joining the circus.
I would definitely recommend this book!
January 4, 2022
I feel like 3 stars is being generous and I absolutely hate saying that. The distinction between the two authors is so apparent and it clashes into a disaster. This had such a great potential. It really really did. I adore Knight. I'm currently going through all of her books. But this 😬...
Rhea- weakest and most cliché character I've ever read.
The whole beginning just makes her out to be this holy grail of women. She is just absolutely perfect in every way and just happens to shock all of the men in one single day at just how perfect she is for each of them. The amount of cringe in this first book was almost enough to make me DNF. But I forged on!
It got worse for me the rest of the series. I can save you some trouble. So you know how she gets kidnapped in this book, multiple times? That happens in the second book. Oh yeah, and then again in the third book.
This series had so much potential and if it had been one book with maybe just 1 kidnap plot (probably the second book's kidnap) it would have been so much better.
Collabs with authors are sometimes just off-putting and I truly hate saying that.
My star take aways are from some grammar issues, plot holes that you know but then it's like they remembered "oh yeah what about that" and they patch it up in one sentence, continual inner monologues that are repetitive, conflicts that are repetitive, and sometimes confusing timelines.
I don't recommend this series. I love Knight. But this is a No.
Rhea- weakest and most cliché character I've ever read.
The whole beginning just makes her out to be this holy grail of women. She is just absolutely perfect in every way and just happens to shock all of the men in one single day at just how perfect she is for each of them. The amount of cringe in this first book was almost enough to make me DNF. But I forged on!
It got worse for me the rest of the series. I can save you some trouble. So you know how she gets kidnapped in this book, multiple times? That happens in the second book. Oh yeah, and then again in the third book.
This series had so much potential and if it had been one book with maybe just 1 kidnap plot (probably the second book's kidnap) it would have been so much better.
Collabs with authors are sometimes just off-putting and I truly hate saying that.
My star take aways are from some grammar issues, plot holes that you know but then it's like they remembered "oh yeah what about that" and they patch it up in one sentence, continual inner monologues that are repetitive, conflicts that are repetitive, and sometimes confusing timelines.
I don't recommend this series. I love Knight. But this is a No.
January 4, 2022
Amazingness
Exactly what I've come to expect from K.A Knight. Pure wonderment. There were some things that fell off the mark for me but I figured that is bound to happen with multiple authors. There was excitement, deceit, intrigue and ROMANCE! It wasn't just sex like so many authors I've seen try to make romance books into instead of just calling them eroticas like they are. This had spice but it also had a story and the spice was just added to make it even more nice. ;) There were some heart breaking moments and at one point I was like OMG can she catch a darn break, but then realized to us it seemed like back to back but in the story it happened over time, a short amount but still some time. I think that's one of the things that bothered me. There was no true definition for the passage of time until the end I didn't even know that it took place over a month or so. Then the fact that there was just one POV, nothing wrong with that just with so much happening and people everywhere I'd have loved to see their pov from their separations. Loved it though and definitely going to recommend to others looking for a freak rh. It didn't really broadcast the post apocalypse vibes too much, like it was there ish but not really and really in my brain I started associating it more with infertility and less because a war had happened to cause it all.
Exactly what I've come to expect from K.A Knight. Pure wonderment. There were some things that fell off the mark for me but I figured that is bound to happen with multiple authors. There was excitement, deceit, intrigue and ROMANCE! It wasn't just sex like so many authors I've seen try to make romance books into instead of just calling them eroticas like they are. This had spice but it also had a story and the spice was just added to make it even more nice. ;) There were some heart breaking moments and at one point I was like OMG can she catch a darn break, but then realized to us it seemed like back to back but in the story it happened over time, a short amount but still some time. I think that's one of the things that bothered me. There was no true definition for the passage of time until the end I didn't even know that it took place over a month or so. Then the fact that there was just one POV, nothing wrong with that just with so much happening and people everywhere I'd have loved to see their pov from their separations. Loved it though and definitely going to recommend to others looking for a freak rh. It didn't really broadcast the post apocalypse vibes too much, like it was there ish but not really and really in my brain I started associating it more with infertility and less because a war had happened to cause it all.
June 11, 2019
This was different than what I normally read but still an interesting story. Knight and O’Kane have created a world that I want to see more of! The characters, while sometimes a**holes, are very different and usually lovable – I’m hoping they are expanded, and we will get to see more of their past as we discover their future with Rhea. I like that all the characters bring a different ‘talent’ to the table (or performance if you rather) and no one really has the same talents…. I do enjoy that Rhea appears to bring out the best in the guys as they do for her as she takes on some of their fighting styles as the story progresses. Its interesting to see but definitely adds something to the story. I enjoy the humor with the pun filled animal names that are used in the story – was enough to make me laugh.
I think they only thing that I wasn’t all on board for is how Rhea made things instantly better for everyone. I know she adapts to survive but it was weird at first the effect she had on the guys… was loved by the animals who usually don’t like people check …. Calmed the raging giant check … showed the jerk that he is worthy of being loved check. However, this became less of an issue for me as the story continued to build.
I think they only thing that I wasn’t all on board for is how Rhea made things instantly better for everyone. I know she adapts to survive but it was weird at first the effect she had on the guys… was loved by the animals who usually don’t like people check …. Calmed the raging giant check … showed the jerk that he is worthy of being loved check. However, this became less of an issue for me as the story continued to build.
May 13, 2021
This was a quick, guilty read for me.
I've read a several of Knight's other books, and they are all similar. In fact, that is something that did put me off. I felt like I could tell which passages were written by Knight and which O'Kane had a hand in. Knight often reuses the same phrases and has a distinct style, though There isn't much character development and what does occur seems to happen very quickly in the book's timeline. The characters seem to have an infinite wealth of different powers they can suddenly call upon whenever necessary, which just bothered me. They rarely had well developed flaws to their personalities or powers. The monologues seemed forced and unnatural to the character you had been introduced to. The plot holes and inconsistencies seem to be from the collaborative attempt from the 2 authors.
Complaints aside, I did read the 2nd one. As mentioned, it was a quick read. It didn't take much brain power, was easy to skim, and at base, the plot and characters were good enough to keep me interested.
I've read a several of Knight's other books, and they are all similar. In fact, that is something that did put me off. I felt like I could tell which passages were written by Knight and which O'Kane had a hand in. Knight often reuses the same phrases and has a distinct style, though There isn't much character development and what does occur seems to happen very quickly in the book's timeline. The characters seem to have an infinite wealth of different powers they can suddenly call upon whenever necessary, which just bothered me. They rarely had well developed flaws to their personalities or powers. The monologues seemed forced and unnatural to the character you had been introduced to. The plot holes and inconsistencies seem to be from the collaborative attempt from the 2 authors.
Complaints aside, I did read the 2nd one. As mentioned, it was a quick read. It didn't take much brain power, was easy to skim, and at base, the plot and characters were good enough to keep me interested.
October 24, 2022
I liked her (and this book) in the beginning. By halfway though, I was on the fence about it, and then when she was stolen (because she left by herself even after being told not to), and then was kidnapped, AND THEN…she wakes up in a room, scared, looks around, sees she is shackled, and doesn’t use her super awesome adaptable powers to save herself? She had to wait for backup???
Man that was me, done.
I have very little respect for characters who go against good advice and get themselves into trouble.
Doubly so when on top of that, they’re stupid.
I did eventually carry on with the book.
I found the relationships rushed, and when a vast majority of a rh book is about her relationships with each of them, that becomes a little disappointing.
The powers of all these people were interesting for sure. I liked seeing what they could do.
The book was fine. Unfortunately she embodies one of my pet peeves.
Man that was me, done.
I have very little respect for characters who go against good advice and get themselves into trouble.
Doubly so when on top of that, they’re stupid.
I did eventually carry on with the book.
I found the relationships rushed, and when a vast majority of a rh book is about her relationships with each of them, that becomes a little disappointing.
The powers of all these people were interesting for sure. I liked seeing what they could do.
The book was fine. Unfortunately she embodies one of my pet peeves.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 17, 2024
A post-war world, everything has changed.
After WWIII broke out, the world isn't what it used to be. Millions of lives lost, much of the plant life is gone, no government to rule, everything is in shambles. For every hundred men, there is one female. They are not equals, simply something to be owned, used, and to help repopulate humankind.
Something else has changed, as well. Mutations have occurred in both animals and humans. The humans who have been affected are considered "freaks" and are being hunted by some.
Thankfully, there's strength in numbers. There's a circus, a group of "freaks" who have become family. They perform for crowds using their gifts and talents and travel from town to town, all the while fighting against those who wish them harm. Can they all train to be more, to be able to protect themselves and their family? By the end of this book, lives have already been lost. How many more can they lose? Will they ever find peace?
After WWIII broke out, the world isn't what it used to be. Millions of lives lost, much of the plant life is gone, no government to rule, everything is in shambles. For every hundred men, there is one female. They are not equals, simply something to be owned, used, and to help repopulate humankind.
Something else has changed, as well. Mutations have occurred in both animals and humans. The humans who have been affected are considered "freaks" and are being hunted by some.
Thankfully, there's strength in numbers. There's a circus, a group of "freaks" who have become family. They perform for crowds using their gifts and talents and travel from town to town, all the while fighting against those who wish them harm. Can they all train to be more, to be able to protect themselves and their family? By the end of this book, lives have already been lost. How many more can they lose? Will they ever find peace?
November 26, 2021
A medium reverse harem, Circus Save Me is post-apocalyptic world filled with a mix of adventure, mystery and magic.
It's been 30 years since the bombs dropped, and with women being outnumbered, they have become little more then slaves or "breeders" who are forced to have children to help repopulate. When we first meet Rhea, she is a quiet slave girl with hidden powers, but when she goes against her orders and rescues a stranger in the market place, she is publicly punished for failing her master's orders. After she displays her powers to the town, she is rescued from her master and brought to the Circus where she is a new freak among freaks. Alcide, the ringmaster and the other performers; Blaine, Jesse, Nixon, and Rex quickly become her new family. Will she finally get her freedom? Or is this just another, better, cage?
It's been 30 years since the bombs dropped, and with women being outnumbered, they have become little more then slaves or "breeders" who are forced to have children to help repopulate. When we first meet Rhea, she is a quiet slave girl with hidden powers, but when she goes against her orders and rescues a stranger in the market place, she is publicly punished for failing her master's orders. After she displays her powers to the town, she is rescued from her master and brought to the Circus where she is a new freak among freaks. Alcide, the ringmaster and the other performers; Blaine, Jesse, Nixon, and Rex quickly become her new family. Will she finally get her freedom? Or is this just another, better, cage?
November 28, 2018
Contains sexual content
This was quite different from what I expected. The setting for this is a dystopian world after nuclear attacks. Some have side effects from the radiation and they are labeled "freaks". The "freaks" are often hunted. Also in this world, women are no better than cattle really. The only thing women are good for us breeding , is she can't conceive (because of the radiation) then she is defective and will probably be killed. I think at some there might be a book two, the ending really cried for one. I like the idea of radiation from nuclear attacks giving some people "powers".
There was always something happening in this one, so worried of getting bored. I think if this carries on into more books, it'll become a reverse harem situation. I think it's a great story.
This was quite different from what I expected. The setting for this is a dystopian world after nuclear attacks. Some have side effects from the radiation and they are labeled "freaks". The "freaks" are often hunted. Also in this world, women are no better than cattle really. The only thing women are good for us breeding , is she can't conceive (because of the radiation) then she is defective and will probably be killed. I think at some there might be a book two, the ending really cried for one. I like the idea of radiation from nuclear attacks giving some people "powers".
There was always something happening in this one, so worried of getting bored. I think if this carries on into more books, it'll become a reverse harem situation. I think it's a great story.
December 10, 2019
5 Freakish Stars
Thirty five years after the world is scorched by nuclear war men rule in a cruel patriarchal society where the few women that are left are treated as property... and then there are the “freaks”. Humans and animals that have developed or were born with mutations. These freaks are outcast by society but find a home together in the Circus.
Rhea is not only a woman by a freak as well and after escaping her cruel master and the only life she has ever known she finds herself a home and family amongst the freaks of the circus
While I really enjoyed this book I felt it was more of a build block for what’s to come. I can’t wait to find out what happens to Rhea and her guys as their powers grow
A definite 5/5 🌟
Thirty five years after the world is scorched by nuclear war men rule in a cruel patriarchal society where the few women that are left are treated as property... and then there are the “freaks”. Humans and animals that have developed or were born with mutations. These freaks are outcast by society but find a home together in the Circus.
Rhea is not only a woman by a freak as well and after escaping her cruel master and the only life she has ever known she finds herself a home and family amongst the freaks of the circus
While I really enjoyed this book I felt it was more of a build block for what’s to come. I can’t wait to find out what happens to Rhea and her guys as their powers grow
A definite 5/5 🌟
Read
November 7, 2021Circus 🎪
3.5☆
I'm not sure how I feel about this one.
I should love it.
The storyline is interesting - a circus in a post apocalyptic world.
Reverse harem - right up my street.
Two amazing authors working together, hell yeh.
But there's something that makes it fall short. I don't feel the characters were developed to the best of their ability, the relationships between the FMC and the MMC's were rushed or just not completed. Maybe too much was trying to fit in 🤔
BUT, and it's a big but, I really did enjoy the unique storyline. The characters have so much potential. I want to see how their relationships develop and where the story takes us next, so book 2 is downloading and I'm going in with an open mind!
3.5☆
I'm not sure how I feel about this one.
I should love it.
The storyline is interesting - a circus in a post apocalyptic world.
Reverse harem - right up my street.
Two amazing authors working together, hell yeh.
But there's something that makes it fall short. I don't feel the characters were developed to the best of their ability, the relationships between the FMC and the MMC's were rushed or just not completed. Maybe too much was trying to fit in 🤔
BUT, and it's a big but, I really did enjoy the unique storyline. The characters have so much potential. I want to see how their relationships develop and where the story takes us next, so book 2 is downloading and I'm going in with an open mind!
November 1, 2018
Two thumbs up
Paranormal. NA. Rh. 5 guys. Circus Actors. Futuristic Dystopian. Mutations. The aftermath of a bomb explotion has left the world with less woman, a very low birth rate, and mutations. Rhea is publicly punished for failing her master's orders. After she displays her powers she is rescued by a group of circus guys. Will she get her freedom or was this just another cage. Rhea was a little on the whiny side but I can see she'll grow into herself quickly. You get to know a few of the guys and there are some super sweet and sexy scenes. Loved the story and the characters. Can't wait to get to know everyone and see were their efforts lead.
Paranormal. NA. Rh. 5 guys. Circus Actors. Futuristic Dystopian. Mutations. The aftermath of a bomb explotion has left the world with less woman, a very low birth rate, and mutations. Rhea is publicly punished for failing her master's orders. After she displays her powers she is rescued by a group of circus guys. Will she get her freedom or was this just another cage. Rhea was a little on the whiny side but I can see she'll grow into herself quickly. You get to know a few of the guys and there are some super sweet and sexy scenes. Loved the story and the characters. Can't wait to get to know everyone and see were their efforts lead.
December 19, 2018
Good story
I really liked the idea behind this unique story. First off, I really liked some of her guys and everyone's abilities. However, I kept getting a little annoyed with Rhea. She tries hard to be strong and pushes herself to be better, but she had to keep getting rescued. It seemed like she forgot all about her abilities that could save her while destroying those that were after her and the others. So that part of the story kept bugging me, but overall, it's worth a read. I'm hoping they all get better at fighting together in the next book, because with all of their skills, it seems like they should be a much larger threat than they are.
I really liked the idea behind this unique story. First off, I really liked some of her guys and everyone's abilities. However, I kept getting a little annoyed with Rhea. She tries hard to be strong and pushes herself to be better, but she had to keep getting rescued. It seemed like she forgot all about her abilities that could save her while destroying those that were after her and the others. So that part of the story kept bugging me, but overall, it's worth a read. I'm hoping they all get better at fighting together in the next book, because with all of their skills, it seems like they should be a much larger threat than they are.
September 14, 2020
DNF 55% I like the guys more than Rhea although I can't get over that incident with Alcide. Book started off well but has no depth and just feels really fluffy. I'm not really feeling the connection between Rhea and the guys definitely a mary sue thing going on with Rhea where she does stupid things but she's oh so special. I mean in a world where woman are scarce and she's experienced bad people before, she decides to go shopping in a strange town by herself when she was just warned yesterday not to go out by herself! Is this woman a child?! At least disguise yourself as a man or something, ugh so stupid.
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