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Ink #1
A Circus of Ink
In a world where stories are forbidden, Elle has a dangerous power: Creation. That's why tattooed soldier Jay is sent by the gods to kill her.
But when Elle is faced with the monster sent to deliver her Ending, she catches the glimmer of curiosity in his eyes—an emotion so unusual in his kind. Convinced having a ruthless killer on her side will help her avenge her father and destroy the gods, she makes the decision not to run. And it changes everything.
Soon, the two enemies are forced to seek refuge at the Circus at the Edge of the World, where forbidden passions start to grow. But both are keeping dark secrets. Their deaths have been written by the Creators. And the foretold End is coming.
When all are bound to the story created by the gods, can Elle and Jay rewrite the deadly fate intended for them and the world?
COMING SPRING 2021
But when Elle is faced with the monster sent to deliver her Ending, she catches the glimmer of curiosity in his eyes—an emotion so unusual in his kind. Convinced having a ruthless killer on her side will help her avenge her father and destroy the gods, she makes the decision not to run. And it changes everything.
Soon, the two enemies are forced to seek refuge at the Circus at the Edge of the World, where forbidden passions start to grow. But both are keeping dark secrets. Their deaths have been written by the Creators. And the foretold End is coming.
When all are bound to the story created by the gods, can Elle and Jay rewrite the deadly fate intended for them and the world?
COMING SPRING 2021
Paperback
Published March 31, 2021
307 people are currently reading
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About the author
Lauren Palphreyman
11 books5,656 followersLauren Palphreyman is an author based in London. She writes books full of magic and romance. Cupid's Match, and Devils Inc. are out now.
Her next book, A Circus of Ink comes out spring 2021.
Her next book, A Circus of Ink comes out spring 2021.
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November 3, 2025The cover art for this book is fantastic, as is the premise, but I just couldn’t get in to it.
The dialogue was very basic and there was an awful lot of repetition.
There was no world building, which was a shame because I felt there was so much potential for the story. Unfortunately, we - as the reader - did not have several things explained.
The ‘insta love’ was what stopped this being a three star read as, despite the aforementioned, it was an easy read and I read it in a day.
The dialogue was very basic and there was an awful lot of repetition.
There was no world building, which was a shame because I felt there was so much potential for the story. Unfortunately, we - as the reader - did not have several things explained.
The ‘insta love’ was what stopped this being a three star read as, despite the aforementioned, it was an easy read and I read it in a day.
May 24, 2021
I pretty much loved everything about this.
I can see how it wouldn't be for everyone. The world building is sort of drip fed to you, and lost about it doesn't necessarily make sense. But, I think that's sort of the point. It's a really original concept though, which I haven't read before.
It has a wonderful sort of magical-realism vibe that I just adored and the enemies to lovers romance was absolutely spot on.
I highly recommend this book!
I can see how it wouldn't be for everyone. The world building is sort of drip fed to you, and lost about it doesn't necessarily make sense. But, I think that's sort of the point. It's a really original concept though, which I haven't read before.
It has a wonderful sort of magical-realism vibe that I just adored and the enemies to lovers romance was absolutely spot on.
I highly recommend this book!
July 28, 2021
I really liked the whole storyline and the concept but gosh the characters keep repeating the same thing over and over again. The author should’ve only told us once or twice about the certain things instead of repeating it. Also it’s like the second day and they’re already kissing ?? I also was so confused with a lot of things.
April 19, 2025
2.75⭐️ I truly enjoyed what this book was trying to accomplish. I just found it to be a bit confusing with there not being much world building. The book focused more on the love aspect between the two characters and kind of threw everything else in after. I would’ve enjoyed more learning about the world and there being a slow burn romance.
I did really like Jay, the blotter. Elle was okay she was kind of annoying with her story telling just like a smidge.
This was close to 3 stars but the constant repeating of things and words had me putting the book down. I lost count of how many times “little twist” was mentioned throughout this book. Literally the same thing was being repeated over and over.
That being said it did kind of end on a cliff hanger so I most likely will read the rest of the series to see how it plays out. I truly do like Lauren’s writing so I hope the rest of this series is better!
I did really like Jay, the blotter. Elle was okay she was kind of annoying with her story telling just like a smidge.
This was close to 3 stars but the constant repeating of things and words had me putting the book down. I lost count of how many times “little twist” was mentioned throughout this book. Literally the same thing was being repeated over and over.
That being said it did kind of end on a cliff hanger so I most likely will read the rest of the series to see how it plays out. I truly do like Lauren’s writing so I hope the rest of this series is better!
August 6, 2025
To quote the not late but great philosopher Tyra Banks, “It is so bad, I wanna give you a Zero. But that's not possible. So I give you, a one.”
January 13, 2020
"Words hang in the air of my dingy apartment; Heavy and unspoken. They are new. They crackle between us. Untold stories twist like smoke; I feel them curling around our bodies, pulling us together. Now we have met- our tales are entwined. They will be now until the end- one way or another"
- A Circus of Ink by Lauren Palphreyman
I just cannot put it into words how much I loved this book! I found this book on Wattpad while I was searching for my next read of January and didn't found any physical read around, my eyes landed on one of my favorite author's book- THIS BOOK.
Starting off from the setting, it is the most beautiful world built I have ever read of. The setting of this book is itself the drafts of an unpublished manuscript. You guessed it right! The characters of this book are the elements writers use to write their finished copies, if that makes any sense. Basically, it is a dystopian world where whatever happens is by and through the will of the 'Creators'- the people who create or make stories.
The place is overrun by the dictatorship rule of the creators. Then there are their followers called the 'Blotters'. The Blotters are people made of ink who are ordered and are destined to kill a 'Twist'. 'Twists' are another cult of people, despised by the Creators and the Blotters because they deviate from the paths built by the Creators.
Then there are many more other groups of people called Tellers, Darlings etc. but here, I'll be focusing more on the Twists, Creators and the Blotters. So now, coming back to this story....
This story revolves around Elle who is known to be a Twist and loves to believe and makes people believe in stories. She loves to tell stories in a world which forbids creative and story related stuffs such as ink, paper and being curious. But as creators think it must happen, every twist has an ending. Enters Jay, who is a Blotter and is entitled to kill Elle. He must, he should and he better kill Elle because it is all written.
But he doesn't.
Because he is curious.
I loved both the characters! It was in fact more like my personality got split into two halves and became a new set of characters- south to the north of one another; complete opposite.
Elle was a character I could mostly relate to because she, like me, believes in stories and is uncertain but is still confident. Her love for books and believing in the power of words struck a cord with mine because I too am a typical nerd who loves to believe in stories, has a beyond the world imagination and is curious to keep wondering. I too am always wondering. Reading about her made the inner storyteller in me feel so proud!
And, on the other hand, Jay was the fun most entertaining part of the entire book because like I said, I could, to a point relate to him too. He was freaky, panicky and nervous about every little uncertainty, and sometimes negative. He had my favorite guy character characteristics which included being grumpy but cute, respectful, had sense of humor and (the best part), a hard shell guy with a soft heart!
This book is just the first book of the Ink series, which is then followed by another book called Citadel Of Fire and, since neither of them are published yet (traditionally), I am waiting for it. (I read the unedited Wattpad version of the first book). But even so, I know this book is going to rock the floor! I already love it so much!
This book was the second read of my 2020 and I gave it a full 5 out of 5 stars! Highly recommend it! So if you are a bookworm like me and want to fall more in love with stories and the people who make it, GO READ THIS BOOK. It is beautiful. You won't feel disappointed!
- A Circus of Ink by Lauren Palphreyman
I just cannot put it into words how much I loved this book! I found this book on Wattpad while I was searching for my next read of January and didn't found any physical read around, my eyes landed on one of my favorite author's book- THIS BOOK.
Starting off from the setting, it is the most beautiful world built I have ever read of. The setting of this book is itself the drafts of an unpublished manuscript. You guessed it right! The characters of this book are the elements writers use to write their finished copies, if that makes any sense. Basically, it is a dystopian world where whatever happens is by and through the will of the 'Creators'- the people who create or make stories.
The place is overrun by the dictatorship rule of the creators. Then there are their followers called the 'Blotters'. The Blotters are people made of ink who are ordered and are destined to kill a 'Twist'. 'Twists' are another cult of people, despised by the Creators and the Blotters because they deviate from the paths built by the Creators.
Then there are many more other groups of people called Tellers, Darlings etc. but here, I'll be focusing more on the Twists, Creators and the Blotters. So now, coming back to this story....
This story revolves around Elle who is known to be a Twist and loves to believe and makes people believe in stories. She loves to tell stories in a world which forbids creative and story related stuffs such as ink, paper and being curious. But as creators think it must happen, every twist has an ending. Enters Jay, who is a Blotter and is entitled to kill Elle. He must, he should and he better kill Elle because it is all written.
But he doesn't.
Because he is curious.
I loved both the characters! It was in fact more like my personality got split into two halves and became a new set of characters- south to the north of one another; complete opposite.
Elle was a character I could mostly relate to because she, like me, believes in stories and is uncertain but is still confident. Her love for books and believing in the power of words struck a cord with mine because I too am a typical nerd who loves to believe in stories, has a beyond the world imagination and is curious to keep wondering. I too am always wondering. Reading about her made the inner storyteller in me feel so proud!
And, on the other hand, Jay was the fun most entertaining part of the entire book because like I said, I could, to a point relate to him too. He was freaky, panicky and nervous about every little uncertainty, and sometimes negative. He had my favorite guy character characteristics which included being grumpy but cute, respectful, had sense of humor and (the best part), a hard shell guy with a soft heart!
This book is just the first book of the Ink series, which is then followed by another book called Citadel Of Fire and, since neither of them are published yet (traditionally), I am waiting for it. (I read the unedited Wattpad version of the first book). But even so, I know this book is going to rock the floor! I already love it so much!
This book was the second read of my 2020 and I gave it a full 5 out of 5 stars! Highly recommend it! So if you are a bookworm like me and want to fall more in love with stories and the people who make it, GO READ THIS BOOK. It is beautiful. You won't feel disappointed!
May 7, 2021
There are two things that drew me to this book: the concept and the cover design. The cover is beautiful, and the concept of the story is awesome. The idea of a girl with the power of creation and a boy with his purpose written in ink on his skin is fascinating and has so much potential, and there's a lot about this story that I really enjoyed. The magic is subtle to the point that I'm not even sure I want to call it magic, but it's interesting. I also like the way storytelling is wound into the fabric of this world and the idea of storytellers themselves and the power they have. In many ways, it feels like a metanarrative of sorts.
There are a number of things that have stopped this from being a four- or even five-star review, however. In many ways, I feel like I don't know much about the world that this is set in in terms of how everyday folks live or what the day-to-day life is like. It's dystopian, certainly, but with the way we're immediately launched into the action of the story, there isn't much opportunity to see what this world is like, and I felt a lot of times that I was going off what we were told about the world. Toward the end, we see more of it, but because of how things start off and then how we become immersed in Elle and Jay's narratives, the opportunity to establish this world before the inciting incident changes it is lost.
Something that was really jarring for me was how heavily the focus of the narrative is on how much Elle and Jay lust after each other. While the synopsis sets the expectation they'll be interested in each other, I didn't expect the heavy handedness of their sexual desires. In ways, that overshadowed getting to know the characters and their development for me, and a lot of it I found unnecessary as it didn't move the story forward. There's so much opportunity to explore the way that this world and the changes happening impact the characters, but I feel like we don't get a lot of that. Were this strictly a romance novel, I would have at least expected the sexually-driven interaction, but for this novel and the way it was presented, I wasn't expecting it.
I felt an excess repetition of ideas and messages also detracted from the story. There were also technical errors that escaped editing, which I know happens from time to time. From a technical perspective as well, I found I didn't always understand the use of italics. In some cases, it made sense, but then in others, it seemed just thrown on dialogue. I'm not sure if there was a purpose for that, but I feel like there should be, and if there was, it was lost on me.
Will I read the next in this series? Probably. I'm curious enough about how things will progress and ulimately conclude that I can see myself picking it up to see what happens (for those who've already read the book, you may, like me, see some humour in that). Again, the concept is fascinating to me, although the execution was a bit of a letdown.
There are a number of things that have stopped this from being a four- or even five-star review, however. In many ways, I feel like I don't know much about the world that this is set in in terms of how everyday folks live or what the day-to-day life is like. It's dystopian, certainly, but with the way we're immediately launched into the action of the story, there isn't much opportunity to see what this world is like, and I felt a lot of times that I was going off what we were told about the world. Toward the end, we see more of it, but because of how things start off and then how we become immersed in Elle and Jay's narratives, the opportunity to establish this world before the inciting incident changes it is lost.
Something that was really jarring for me was how heavily the focus of the narrative is on how much Elle and Jay lust after each other. While the synopsis sets the expectation they'll be interested in each other, I didn't expect the heavy handedness of their sexual desires. In ways, that overshadowed getting to know the characters and their development for me, and a lot of it I found unnecessary as it didn't move the story forward. There's so much opportunity to explore the way that this world and the changes happening impact the characters, but I feel like we don't get a lot of that. Were this strictly a romance novel, I would have at least expected the sexually-driven interaction, but for this novel and the way it was presented, I wasn't expecting it.
I felt an excess repetition of ideas and messages also detracted from the story. There were also technical errors that escaped editing, which I know happens from time to time. From a technical perspective as well, I found I didn't always understand the use of italics. In some cases, it made sense, but then in others, it seemed just thrown on dialogue. I'm not sure if there was a purpose for that, but I feel like there should be, and if there was, it was lost on me.
Will I read the next in this series? Probably. I'm curious enough about how things will progress and ulimately conclude that I can see myself picking it up to see what happens (for those who've already read the book, you may, like me, see some humour in that). Again, the concept is fascinating to me, although the execution was a bit of a letdown.
May 14, 2024
I read this back when it was on wattpad as a draft and I instantly fell in love with it. I love the author's writing style, the world, the romance. It gave me one of those magical "I'm high off the wonder of this book" feelings. So excited for the physical.
April 22, 2021
OMG what a book, its like nothing I've ever read before, it hooked me from the start that I could not put it down, and read it in less than a day, oh how I hope there will be another one lol
April 30, 2021
"It's about a man with his life mapped out in ink on his skin, who was bound to the Creators, who was supposed to kill a Twist. But instead, he carried her through a wild and deadly hurricane and came with her to the Circus at the Edge of the World."
The best dystopian-fantasy book ever written! I never thought how much I would fall in love with it. The opening chapter blew my mind away and I couldn’t stop turning pages.
A story with a hunter and prey is something that has always been in one of the common tropes but Lauren Palphreyman twisted the story and the characters to turn it into a masterpiece. Elle was the strongest character I have ever read in fiction. Her passion, her power, her love were so delicately written that I fell in love with her. She was the most complex and beautiful character I ever got the chance to call ‘Heroine’.
Jay is the owner of my heart now. I can’t describe in words all the emotions I felt for him. He was dangerous, funny, seductive and passionate. He had the most intricate emotions and I could feel his confusion every time he ended up doubting his actions. His anxiety, his fear and his feelings deeply touched me and I was ready to go fight for him if I had to.
The plot was amazing! The storyline took so many twists and turns and every scene was beautifully written leaving just the perfect room for imagination. I got attached to the mystery that surrounded the entire book and there are so many questions that still linger my mind.
The chemistry between Elle and Jay was fire! Every scene was addictive and their relationship was so unique. I was enchanted by them.
She looks at me, and fuck, I want to take that look off her face. I want to tell her it'll be okay. It's just a few Blotters. I can handle it. I won't let anyone hurt her. And that fucks me up in the head, that urge to make her better.
Beautiful, soul-touching and passionate – A Circus Of Ink is the perfect read for anyone looking for romance with just the right amount of action and magic.
Content Warning: sex, strong language and violence
December 17, 2024
Repeat it again…
Oh, so much repetition in this book - it’s incredibly annoying. How many times can one describe something as “primal”? How many times can one describe how people smell? How many times can we be told that someone was supposed to be killed but wasn’t? Yes, that’s the entire premise of the story and we get it…after the first statement. I felt like I was reading paragraphs on repeat throughout the entire book. The only thing that kept me reading till the end was the story itself. It was interesting, for sure, regardless of the fact that the characters were semi-flat. I’m torn between 2 and 3 stars because the story was different and inviting but everything else was a little underdone.
Oh, so much repetition in this book - it’s incredibly annoying. How many times can one describe something as “primal”? How many times can one describe how people smell? How many times can we be told that someone was supposed to be killed but wasn’t? Yes, that’s the entire premise of the story and we get it…after the first statement. I felt like I was reading paragraphs on repeat throughout the entire book. The only thing that kept me reading till the end was the story itself. It was interesting, for sure, regardless of the fact that the characters were semi-flat. I’m torn between 2 and 3 stars because the story was different and inviting but everything else was a little underdone.
May 11, 2021
This book is absolutely amazing.
It's magical, that's the only word I have for it.
The story is creative, the characters feel very real, the writing style is simple but poetic and emotional, there is steam and romance.
It's perfect, I can't wait for the second one.
It's magical, that's the only word I have for it.
The story is creative, the characters feel very real, the writing style is simple but poetic and emotional, there is steam and romance.
It's perfect, I can't wait for the second one.
March 21, 2022
Omfg if I don’t get a sequel to this book I am going to scream.
This was… so so so good. I can’t even figure out the words to say how much or why I liked this. Just… WOW. It was like a fantasy dystopia meets Erin Morgenstern and… wow.
There were certainly some flaws (setting, world building probably not as fleshed out as they could have been), but I didn’t have any problems with that. I freaking loved this book. So impressed.
And to the author, if you read this review- that was the best damn first chapter I’ve EVER read.
This was… so so so good. I can’t even figure out the words to say how much or why I liked this. Just… WOW. It was like a fantasy dystopia meets Erin Morgenstern and… wow.
There were certainly some flaws (setting, world building probably not as fleshed out as they could have been), but I didn’t have any problems with that. I freaking loved this book. So impressed.
And to the author, if you read this review- that was the best damn first chapter I’ve EVER read.
December 7, 2020
I read this book a few months ago on Wattpad and it blew my mind, left an impression on my soul, and made me feel personally invested in the H and h's relationship through their ordeal. The writing was beautiful. It gave me Inkheart vibes but even better! There was just the right amount of mystery, drama, romance, action and fantasy that it would appeal to many people. I quickly added it to my personal list of favourite books of all times. I sincerely hope a 2nd book will be written in the near future.
March 30, 2025
I wanted to really love this book, the premise was intriguing and so I went in with high hopes. It fell short however, which was extremely disappointing.
I found the writing repetitive, and at times it became extremely annoying. The plot “twists” felt obvious, and the insta-lust/love just wasn’t believable. I didn’t feel the chemistry between them at all, it felt forced.
I gave it 2 stars because the ideas were good, but it just came up lacking in its execution.
I found the writing repetitive, and at times it became extremely annoying. The plot “twists” felt obvious, and the insta-lust/love just wasn’t believable. I didn’t feel the chemistry between them at all, it felt forced.
I gave it 2 stars because the ideas were good, but it just came up lacking in its execution.
January 18, 2022
There were some great plot ideas here. But it never seemed to get flushed out. Plus the dialogue doesn’t really flow.
May 29, 2021
I had such high hopes for this story. Not only did it have a deeply intriguing and seemingly exciting synopsis and title but that cover art is spectacular. However the overall story fell flat for me. There was a lot of repetition, with the hero calling our mysterious heroine 'little Twist' every other sentence.
I wanted to love the book so much but there was something missing throughout and I'm still not even sure what it was. I think for so much of the story, we're stagnant, waiting for everything to happen. We don't move forward and we don't uncover very many truths. It's just a side stepping dance between the two protagonists.
I definitely thought from the premise we would be entertained by an enemies to lovers type of romance and I guess it was up to a point, however the contention, push and pull and combative nature of their connection felt forced. Their sexual tension and chemistry is palpable though. It's all fireworks and heat and passion simmering between Jay and Elle right from the get go. And for me that's what saved the story for me. I was invested in these two characters. I was lured in, enthralled and dedicated, wanting to make sure they saw through to a happy ending.
A Circus of Ink seems to be setting up the scene for the next part of the adventure so although the action and suspense is good, it's not mind blowing, edge of your seat kind of writing. It will keep you hooked in though.
The world building was also a little lacklustre. I felt it all needed fleshing out a bit more. Certain areas definitely needed more explanation and detail. It was all a passing blur. Something we were told about but never really got to experience. I understand this is the first book, undoubtedly there will be more, everything will make more sense, the characters will make more choices and decisions, the plot will weave and dip and take us on a longer journey, our questions will hopefully be answered and our protagonists will discover all that they set out to find. A happy ever after included. For those reasons I will absolutely be reading the next book in this series. Assuming there is another one.
I wanted to love the book so much but there was something missing throughout and I'm still not even sure what it was. I think for so much of the story, we're stagnant, waiting for everything to happen. We don't move forward and we don't uncover very many truths. It's just a side stepping dance between the two protagonists.
I definitely thought from the premise we would be entertained by an enemies to lovers type of romance and I guess it was up to a point, however the contention, push and pull and combative nature of their connection felt forced. Their sexual tension and chemistry is palpable though. It's all fireworks and heat and passion simmering between Jay and Elle right from the get go. And for me that's what saved the story for me. I was invested in these two characters. I was lured in, enthralled and dedicated, wanting to make sure they saw through to a happy ending.
A Circus of Ink seems to be setting up the scene for the next part of the adventure so although the action and suspense is good, it's not mind blowing, edge of your seat kind of writing. It will keep you hooked in though.
The world building was also a little lacklustre. I felt it all needed fleshing out a bit more. Certain areas definitely needed more explanation and detail. It was all a passing blur. Something we were told about but never really got to experience. I understand this is the first book, undoubtedly there will be more, everything will make more sense, the characters will make more choices and decisions, the plot will weave and dip and take us on a longer journey, our questions will hopefully be answered and our protagonists will discover all that they set out to find. A happy ever after included. For those reasons I will absolutely be reading the next book in this series. Assuming there is another one.
March 6, 2022
~Spoilers~
From the first chapter i was drawn in, it placed its hooks on me and dragged me down. Ive never known a book to start straight into the action, there has always been some background before the fighting started. Not with this book though, in the very first chapter it kicks off with Jay showing up to kill Elle. This drew on my own curiosity, i wanted to know more, why Jay was sent to kill Elle and how she found ways to prevent it. However, as i read on i didn’t enjoy it as much as i thought i would, Elle’s character was a bit of a let down for me personally.
I did like how the characters were curious about each other, even though it is forbidden. The fact that Jay would ‘imagine’ things about Elle when he knew he shouldn’t be just screamed his interest to me. I knew for a fact their chemistry was going to shoot sky high. The fact that he saved Elle after she was knocked unconscious from the chair just made my heart melt a little. He was conflicted, knowing he should have left her their, where the other blotters would’ve killed her but instead he chose to save her and take her home.
Chapter 21 when jay needed to find his purpose, something he would write in his life and he chose that purpose to be making Elle beg for it. I smiled like crazy at that, like damn Jay thats one purpose all right. Im squealing for Elle right now.
A thing i didn’t like about Elle was how naive she was and in a way doesn’t have respect for others. In chapter 37 she annoyed me a little by disrespecting Jay’s wishes, like it could’ve completely backfired on the situation. She seems a little too eager to share her stories, while I’m found of the plot line i wouldn’t say Elle is my favourite character.
Overall thoughts on this book? The plot idea is something i like, i enjoyed where this was going. Elle needs some character development, I wouldn’t say shes a strong main character. I thought I’d see her grow as the book carried on but i didn’t. This book had its ups and downs, there were things i both liked and disliked in this book. I think I’d read book 2 when it comes out to see how the story ends but i wouldn’t say its high on my priority list.
From the first chapter i was drawn in, it placed its hooks on me and dragged me down. Ive never known a book to start straight into the action, there has always been some background before the fighting started. Not with this book though, in the very first chapter it kicks off with Jay showing up to kill Elle. This drew on my own curiosity, i wanted to know more, why Jay was sent to kill Elle and how she found ways to prevent it. However, as i read on i didn’t enjoy it as much as i thought i would, Elle’s character was a bit of a let down for me personally.
I did like how the characters were curious about each other, even though it is forbidden. The fact that Jay would ‘imagine’ things about Elle when he knew he shouldn’t be just screamed his interest to me. I knew for a fact their chemistry was going to shoot sky high. The fact that he saved Elle after she was knocked unconscious from the chair just made my heart melt a little. He was conflicted, knowing he should have left her their, where the other blotters would’ve killed her but instead he chose to save her and take her home.
Chapter 21 when jay needed to find his purpose, something he would write in his life and he chose that purpose to be making Elle beg for it. I smiled like crazy at that, like damn Jay thats one purpose all right. Im squealing for Elle right now.
A thing i didn’t like about Elle was how naive she was and in a way doesn’t have respect for others. In chapter 37 she annoyed me a little by disrespecting Jay’s wishes, like it could’ve completely backfired on the situation. She seems a little too eager to share her stories, while I’m found of the plot line i wouldn’t say Elle is my favourite character.
Overall thoughts on this book? The plot idea is something i like, i enjoyed where this was going. Elle needs some character development, I wouldn’t say shes a strong main character. I thought I’d see her grow as the book carried on but i didn’t. This book had its ups and downs, there were things i both liked and disliked in this book. I think I’d read book 2 when it comes out to see how the story ends but i wouldn’t say its high on my priority list.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 4, 2021
Wait a minute, this is a duology?
This book was good. However, about halfway through the book when Jay is going on about oh the Creators did this and this. It took me out of the story because it was like the creators are the author because the whole first to however many drafts (rings) there were. It’s a cool concept with the idea of stories, but I couldn’t stop thinking “the author did this” “the author made it so” so it was a little hard to get into the world building.
Also, don’t know if anyone has ever watched the animated film Jack and the Cuckoo Clock heart, but the stories Elle told reminded me so much of that movie to the point that again I wasn’t thinking of this story I was thinking of another story.
I like Elle and Jay (even though Jay swore a little too much for my liking. If you are going to swear at least add some variety instead of the f word constantly). What I didn’t like about them is that as soon as they have sex it’s like all their relationship came about and I kind of want more substance in relationships then that.
Now I know this may sound like I’m hating on it but I promise I’m not. I only wished some things were more in the book like the Circus of Ink seeing as how that is the title of the book, but it wasn’t in there as much as I thought it would be. I also wanted more of Elle’s and Jay’s relationship and hopefully there will be more in the second book (if I ever find out what the title is) and hopefully the second book does not split them apart because I think they can do wonderful things together.
I will eagerly be waiting for the second book because I’m curious to see where this will go and if certain things will be brought into the light.
4 out of 5 stars.
Recommend.
This book was good. However, about halfway through the book when Jay is going on about oh the Creators did this and this. It took me out of the story because it was like the creators are the author because the whole first to however many drafts (rings) there were. It’s a cool concept with the idea of stories, but I couldn’t stop thinking “the author did this” “the author made it so” so it was a little hard to get into the world building.
Also, don’t know if anyone has ever watched the animated film Jack and the Cuckoo Clock heart, but the stories Elle told reminded me so much of that movie to the point that again I wasn’t thinking of this story I was thinking of another story.
I like Elle and Jay (even though Jay swore a little too much for my liking. If you are going to swear at least add some variety instead of the f word constantly). What I didn’t like about them is that as soon as they have sex it’s like all their relationship came about and I kind of want more substance in relationships then that.
Now I know this may sound like I’m hating on it but I promise I’m not. I only wished some things were more in the book like the Circus of Ink seeing as how that is the title of the book, but it wasn’t in there as much as I thought it would be. I also wanted more of Elle’s and Jay’s relationship and hopefully there will be more in the second book (if I ever find out what the title is) and hopefully the second book does not split them apart because I think they can do wonderful things together.
I will eagerly be waiting for the second book because I’m curious to see where this will go and if certain things will be brought into the light.
4 out of 5 stars.
Recommend.
April 5, 2021
What a read 😮
To be honest i wasn't expecting liking this book that much, dystopian fantasy is not my favorite genre but this story just made the coffee for me . First of all this is going to be a duology and i'm happy about that cause it's exactly the amount of books this story needs .
The book has 2 different POV one by Elle and the other by jay which by the way is my favorite character .
The story follows ELLE a 19years old young lady who has the ability to tell stories in a world where stories are forbidden , a world ruled by the creators who write the stories and destiny of their people , those gods (creators) can control ink and they created a special beings called blotters to kill all threats and especially twists (people that follow the heresy of don't whorshipping the creators).
GENRE : dark fantasy romance 😉
Anyway i loved the characters , the plot was interesting even if it didn't take all the place it needed in the book it was a little shallow for me , also the world building lacked precision and informations , the story was full of revelations ,twists and emotions , the romance was interesting i liked it , on the other side there wasn't that much of circus elements .
I'm definitly waitinf for book 2 and i recommend this one .
**May content explicit content , strong langage and explicit ass scenes
To be honest i wasn't expecting liking this book that much, dystopian fantasy is not my favorite genre but this story just made the coffee for me . First of all this is going to be a duology and i'm happy about that cause it's exactly the amount of books this story needs .
The book has 2 different POV one by Elle and the other by jay which by the way is my favorite character .
The story follows ELLE a 19years old young lady who has the ability to tell stories in a world where stories are forbidden , a world ruled by the creators who write the stories and destiny of their people , those gods (creators) can control ink and they created a special beings called blotters to kill all threats and especially twists (people that follow the heresy of don't whorshipping the creators).
GENRE : dark fantasy romance 😉
Anyway i loved the characters , the plot was interesting even if it didn't take all the place it needed in the book it was a little shallow for me , also the world building lacked precision and informations , the story was full of revelations ,twists and emotions , the romance was interesting i liked it , on the other side there wasn't that much of circus elements .
I'm definitly waitinf for book 2 and i recommend this one .
**May content explicit content , strong langage and explicit ass scenes
April 7, 2021
What do you get when you have a girl who is challenging all the rules of the world and send someone who was created to follow the rules to kill her?
A Circus of Ink in ways gave me Fahrenheit 451 mixed with Hunger Games vibes. Of course there are no games but the dystopian reality that Lauren Palphreyman creates has similar societal boundaries that need to be overcome in order to save the world. And with this comes the belief that there is only one story and there is no way to change that story. If you do...you die.
Some spoilers follow...
This book for me started a little slow but quickly picked up as you start to learn more about the Circus. A wonderful enemies to lovers story as Jay completely encompasses “you touch her you die”. The way Jay has his life completely turned upside down and still has the ability to trust Elle is a wonderfully amazing rollercoaster ride as he fights his nature for the girl he is falling in love with. Elle is the strong minded heroine everyone needs to prove that sometimes you need to question society and create your own stories.
All in all another wonderful book by Lauren. I can’t wait for the second book to be published and look forward to other books from her as well.
A Circus of Ink in ways gave me Fahrenheit 451 mixed with Hunger Games vibes. Of course there are no games but the dystopian reality that Lauren Palphreyman creates has similar societal boundaries that need to be overcome in order to save the world. And with this comes the belief that there is only one story and there is no way to change that story. If you do...you die.
Some spoilers follow...
This book for me started a little slow but quickly picked up as you start to learn more about the Circus. A wonderful enemies to lovers story as Jay completely encompasses “you touch her you die”. The way Jay has his life completely turned upside down and still has the ability to trust Elle is a wonderfully amazing rollercoaster ride as he fights his nature for the girl he is falling in love with. Elle is the strong minded heroine everyone needs to prove that sometimes you need to question society and create your own stories.
All in all another wonderful book by Lauren. I can’t wait for the second book to be published and look forward to other books from her as well.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 13, 2021
When tattooed Blotter, Jay, meets Elle, the Twist he's been sent to execute, she surprises him with something unexpected. She can create, and the things she creates aren't written in the future on his skin.
Really loved the world building here, even if it fell a little short. The characters and the story were fantastic. The story was cute. I liked the attraction between the characters and their interactions. Loved the story. Very well done. It was slightly predictable, but genuinely fun to read. I wish it was longer, and a stand-alone book, though.
I liked the idea of the Blotters, whose skin portrays the story the creators have forged. I like the twist our little Twist didn't realize. I liked the action and the sexual tension.
It was a fun read, but if another one in this world appears I don't think I'll be reading it... and that's nothing to say of the writing or the story... but it's just I'm not really interested in seeing where this one goes. There could have been more depth to the characters besides dandelions and hurricanes and ink... I felt there was more story than the story given to us through Jay and Elle.
It was a sweet story, well thought out... but not particularly filling if it were a meal. More like a tasty treat. A one and done.
Still, a story is a story. I partook, and I enjoyed... and that's where I leave it. A fondness for the characters and their universe.
Really loved the world building here, even if it fell a little short. The characters and the story were fantastic. The story was cute. I liked the attraction between the characters and their interactions. Loved the story. Very well done. It was slightly predictable, but genuinely fun to read. I wish it was longer, and a stand-alone book, though.
I liked the idea of the Blotters, whose skin portrays the story the creators have forged. I like the twist our little Twist didn't realize. I liked the action and the sexual tension.
It was a fun read, but if another one in this world appears I don't think I'll be reading it... and that's nothing to say of the writing or the story... but it's just I'm not really interested in seeing where this one goes. There could have been more depth to the characters besides dandelions and hurricanes and ink... I felt there was more story than the story given to us through Jay and Elle.
It was a sweet story, well thought out... but not particularly filling if it were a meal. More like a tasty treat. A one and done.
Still, a story is a story. I partook, and I enjoyed... and that's where I leave it. A fondness for the characters and their universe.
July 27, 2023
Nothing like I’ve ever read before
This book was unlike anything I’ve ever read before! The work building, the fantasy, the magic of stories… my heart is quickening just thinking about how good this book was. This book was absolutely made for hardcore book lovers and lovers of stories, and I dramatically feel like it was almost written for me. I loved it so much.
My only complaint is I found soo many errors. Forgotten words in a sentence (left out the word “the” in the following sentence “Sylvia sits on a chair at END OF the table I’m lying on.”), misspelled words (“My family has been based her for decades” her instead of here), and I marked 7 others grammatical errors. I’m not a professional editor or anything but I can read lol, and these errors bother me immensely. If the author would just reach out to me I will gladly send her the errors I found! Lol
But with this complaint, this is an absolute 5 star read, and it kinda blew my mind and changed my world!
My favorite quote which is so relevant in the US today with the book bans going on…
“She knew, you see, that words can be powerful. Why else would stories have been forbidden?”
This book was unlike anything I’ve ever read before! The work building, the fantasy, the magic of stories… my heart is quickening just thinking about how good this book was. This book was absolutely made for hardcore book lovers and lovers of stories, and I dramatically feel like it was almost written for me. I loved it so much.
My only complaint is I found soo many errors. Forgotten words in a sentence (left out the word “the” in the following sentence “Sylvia sits on a chair at END OF the table I’m lying on.”), misspelled words (“My family has been based her for decades” her instead of here), and I marked 7 others grammatical errors. I’m not a professional editor or anything but I can read lol, and these errors bother me immensely. If the author would just reach out to me I will gladly send her the errors I found! Lol
But with this complaint, this is an absolute 5 star read, and it kinda blew my mind and changed my world!
My favorite quote which is so relevant in the US today with the book bans going on…
“She knew, you see, that words can be powerful. Why else would stories have been forbidden?”
April 29, 2021
I loved this book!
Elle, a Twist, and Jay, a Blotter. They're both curious. She twists the rules and he follows her like a "wolf pup". They're bound by ink, and not only by that. They're different, but being different is good. It is a journey of "hope, of love, and of rebellion".
I loved the descriptions, and the dialogues. Everything was well-balanced. The characters were engaging. On the one hand, Elle is a winsome girl full of hopes. On the other hand, Jay is a curious bloke who only follows the Twist because he is curious about "her". Deep inside, the reader understands that there is more to it than that.
Can't wait for the second book of this duology, and see if more dandelion seeds are going to be planted. Stories are hungry, and want to be fed. The readers are too.
However, I want to say that some sentences were too repetitive, especially at the beginning. I mean, it somehow helped me understand what was going on better, but it still felt unnecessary. That is the only negative aspect I can pinpoint for now.
Elle, a Twist, and Jay, a Blotter. They're both curious. She twists the rules and he follows her like a "wolf pup". They're bound by ink, and not only by that. They're different, but being different is good. It is a journey of "hope, of love, and of rebellion".
I loved the descriptions, and the dialogues. Everything was well-balanced. The characters were engaging. On the one hand, Elle is a winsome girl full of hopes. On the other hand, Jay is a curious bloke who only follows the Twist because he is curious about "her". Deep inside, the reader understands that there is more to it than that.
Can't wait for the second book of this duology, and see if more dandelion seeds are going to be planted. Stories are hungry, and want to be fed. The readers are too.
However, I want to say that some sentences were too repetitive, especially at the beginning. I mean, it somehow helped me understand what was going on better, but it still felt unnecessary. That is the only negative aspect I can pinpoint for now.
December 16, 2025
2.5 because I think the plot had so much promise
Characters could have been better if we got more tension and less insta love. It affected the relationship and it affected the overall tension and feel of the book and side characters. Everything eventually spiraled around this couple plot wise and it didn’t do any favors for the book overall.
There were great ideas here, no plot twists as far as I’m concerned, everything was predictable which is also ok.
The repetition is frustrating, I think publication companies telling authors and screenwriters to do that now because of short attention spans and it’s making everyone’s work poorer quality who follows the advice.
For a dystopia we didn’t get a lot of world building which is something I feel is critical to the genre. Again it devalues the tension overall for the plot.
Also if you got pet peeve like I do about nicknames, little twist is overdone and eye rolling by the end.
Characters could have been better if we got more tension and less insta love. It affected the relationship and it affected the overall tension and feel of the book and side characters. Everything eventually spiraled around this couple plot wise and it didn’t do any favors for the book overall.
There were great ideas here, no plot twists as far as I’m concerned, everything was predictable which is also ok.
The repetition is frustrating, I think publication companies telling authors and screenwriters to do that now because of short attention spans and it’s making everyone’s work poorer quality who follows the advice.
For a dystopia we didn’t get a lot of world building which is something I feel is critical to the genre. Again it devalues the tension overall for the plot.
Also if you got pet peeve like I do about nicknames, little twist is overdone and eye rolling by the end.
February 15, 2025
could not finish!!!
What I read, was a one chapter after another of “twist will die” and “Blotter will kill me”
The blurb and book name was a hook. There was constant repetition. Extreme world building and while it was good it was “did you get that? I’ll tell you again “
Now, I’m not going to trash this novel as a literary snob. Like who am I? I looked into this, and it originally appeared on Wattpad. So the constant repetition is from the new uploaded chapters each week. And while I appreciate the author keeping the original and letting it publish this way because it must have been phenomenal weekly. ….Reading it chapter for chapter without this prior knowledge can be unforgiving. It was difficult to get into.
I love wattpad/Galatea books they’re great. But this wasn’t it.
What I read, was a one chapter after another of “twist will die” and “Blotter will kill me”
The blurb and book name was a hook. There was constant repetition. Extreme world building and while it was good it was “did you get that? I’ll tell you again “
Now, I’m not going to trash this novel as a literary snob. Like who am I? I looked into this, and it originally appeared on Wattpad. So the constant repetition is from the new uploaded chapters each week. And while I appreciate the author keeping the original and letting it publish this way because it must have been phenomenal weekly. ….Reading it chapter for chapter without this prior knowledge can be unforgiving. It was difficult to get into.
I love wattpad/Galatea books they’re great. But this wasn’t it.
August 10, 2021
A World Like No Other; A Girl Like No Other
If I could give this book more than 5 stars, I absolutely would. It's absolutely amazing. The writing was so wonderful that I could see the settings and smell the scents. One line that will stick with me forever is this: "but now do you fix a world that doesn't know it's broken?" The characters have touched my soul. Elle is young, but she knows what she's meant to do. That is, until Blogger Jay walks into her housing to kill her. With the world after them and afraid of being Cut, they fight to survive. I am anxiously awaiting the next book in the series. Incredible!
If I could give this book more than 5 stars, I absolutely would. It's absolutely amazing. The writing was so wonderful that I could see the settings and smell the scents. One line that will stick with me forever is this: "but now do you fix a world that doesn't know it's broken?" The characters have touched my soul. Elle is young, but she knows what she's meant to do. That is, until Blogger Jay walks into her housing to kill her. With the world after them and afraid of being Cut, they fight to survive. I am anxiously awaiting the next book in the series. Incredible!
October 10, 2022
I DNFed probably 30% in? I'll just say the biggest reasons as to why, is because 1) redundancy. How many times does it need to be said "I'm a blotter. It is written."? Because we GET IT. 2) um I was not at all attracted to the MMC and this might be my fault for not researching enough before I picked it up. Just way too vulgar and omg the word he uses to refer to his little ding dong is so gag-inducing. I purposely avoid dudes who talk like this for a reason, why do I want to read it in romance? 3) um the world was just a little confusing? I was getting like half of it, but then it just didn't make sense sometimes.
Couldn't get into it.
Couldn't get into it.
Read
July 3, 2021I found the premise interesting and enjoyed the story.
I absolutely hated the romance. Jay is a piece of work, and not because of all the killing he's done, but because he's dismissive (in what world is "crazy little Twist" an endearment, or ignoring her request to call her by name ok?), bullheaded, assholey and emotionally stunted. I get that much of the latter is not his fault, but there was no personal growth.
We owe it to others to not be overwhelmingly assholic and if you won't work on yourself I reserve the right to not like you.
I absolutely hated the romance. Jay is a piece of work, and not because of all the killing he's done, but because he's dismissive (in what world is "crazy little Twist" an endearment, or ignoring her request to call her by name ok?), bullheaded, assholey and emotionally stunted. I get that much of the latter is not his fault, but there was no personal growth.
We owe it to others to not be overwhelmingly assholic and if you won't work on yourself I reserve the right to not like you.
April 14, 2021
This story is fenomenal!!! It's like a story within a story and so much more. It's about words and beliefs, about anything being possible if you believe strong enough.
This story is a dystopian fantasy so well done, so well written that I'm spellbound.
Elle and Jay's story is magical, so beautiful, so strong. This is the first book I could finish this year without struggling with it.
My favorite read this year by far!!!
This story is a dystopian fantasy so well done, so well written that I'm spellbound.
Elle and Jay's story is magical, so beautiful, so strong. This is the first book I could finish this year without struggling with it.
My favorite read this year by far!!!
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