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Caravan of Freaks #1
Pretty Broken Things
To the unknowing, the circus is majestic. Marvelous. Mysterious.
For me, the caravan is a prison. A sadist’s trophy case full of pretty, broken things.
If being caged isn’t enough, three men haunt me like shadows.
The Aerialist might kill me.
The Freak might die.
And The Seer might watch it all happen with a wicked grin on his beautiful face.
If we can come together to defeat The Ringmaster, a terrifying, dark magician, we can find our freedom.
Escaping the Caravan of Freaks is harder than it seems because freedom’s just a pretty way to say I have nothing left to lose.
This is a fantasy romance story filled with fae, demons, magicians, violence, and love. It is not intended for anyone under 18 years of age. This is book one in a series.
For me, the caravan is a prison. A sadist’s trophy case full of pretty, broken things.
If being caged isn’t enough, three men haunt me like shadows.
The Aerialist might kill me.
The Freak might die.
And The Seer might watch it all happen with a wicked grin on his beautiful face.
If we can come together to defeat The Ringmaster, a terrifying, dark magician, we can find our freedom.
Escaping the Caravan of Freaks is harder than it seems because freedom’s just a pretty way to say I have nothing left to lose.
This is a fantasy romance story filled with fae, demons, magicians, violence, and love. It is not intended for anyone under 18 years of age. This is book one in a series.
268 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 5, 2022
51 people are currently reading
373 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
January 8, 2022
I had high hopes for this based on the blurb and the gorgeous cover. A nightmarish circus filled with weird and wonderful characters? What's not to like, right? Unfortunately, this didn't really work for me and I'd probably give this 2.5.
Sparrow is kidnapped from her village in the opening of the book by a troll and guven to the Ringmaster of the Cirus of Freaks to pay off the Troll's debt. We then jump to one year later and Sparrow's enslaved to the circus as a performer, but also has the ability to feed from people's Nightmares and then paralyse and torture them by feeding them back. Now, you might be wondering why she didn't use this power (that isn't mentioned at the time) to escape the troll and not go to the circus in the first place, but this is just one of many inconsistencies I found throughout the novel.
Sparrow suffers from an ailment if many female protagonists, and that is that she is super special with a super special forbidden power. You see, there used to be this all powerful being called Omnicius, who made light magic and dark magic in balance, but he was betrayed and over thrown and locked in osme sort of randomly explained magic box beneath the earth, and then this betrayer went around killing every creature with light magic, or glimmer, so everyone's magic is dark, and then this caused the 'murk' to appear, which is apparently this dark, murky layer that covers the sky - only clearly it can't cover it really, as otherwise all plant life would die, so even though the sun never breaks through th enurk, it also kind of must somehow? I don't know, it's all so silly I'm loosing interest writing this now, to be honest.
Anyway, I got side tracked in my ranting. Sparrow, somehow (because she's super special) has glimmer magic inside of her, which would mean instant death of anyone knew, so she locks it down and tries to suppress it.
I didn't like Sparrow. I found her strangely condescending in her attitude to the dancers, who essentially are forced to sleep with the customers. The fact that she voluntarily chooses to be whipped every night with a barbed whip, rather than sleep with a customer, as if her purity is so much more important than the reta of the women somehow left a bad taste in my mouth, whivh I didn't really understand, because I voously the whole concept is vile, so good on her for refusing, but I suppose their reality was so bleak, the fact she's was the only one special enough and magically strong enough to fight it rubbed me up the wrong way.
I also found the three men were not particularly well characterised, or developed enough for me to feel any real interest in or connection with.
I also found the ending a little silly.
Now, whils this has been a pretty negative review, I am sure I am in the minority here, as there are loads of 5 star reviews, but this just didn't work for me. I need my world building to make more sense and characters I actually like. I thought the prologue was beautifully written, and I was excited after reading it, but it probably was my favourite part.
Sparrow is kidnapped from her village in the opening of the book by a troll and guven to the Ringmaster of the Cirus of Freaks to pay off the Troll's debt. We then jump to one year later and Sparrow's enslaved to the circus as a performer, but also has the ability to feed from people's Nightmares and then paralyse and torture them by feeding them back. Now, you might be wondering why she didn't use this power (that isn't mentioned at the time) to escape the troll and not go to the circus in the first place, but this is just one of many inconsistencies I found throughout the novel.
Sparrow suffers from an ailment if many female protagonists, and that is that she is super special with a super special forbidden power. You see, there used to be this all powerful being called Omnicius, who made light magic and dark magic in balance, but he was betrayed and over thrown and locked in osme sort of randomly explained magic box beneath the earth, and then this betrayer went around killing every creature with light magic, or glimmer, so everyone's magic is dark, and then this caused the 'murk' to appear, which is apparently this dark, murky layer that covers the sky - only clearly it can't cover it really, as otherwise all plant life would die, so even though the sun never breaks through th enurk, it also kind of must somehow? I don't know, it's all so silly I'm loosing interest writing this now, to be honest.
Anyway, I got side tracked in my ranting. Sparrow, somehow (because she's super special) has glimmer magic inside of her, which would mean instant death of anyone knew, so she locks it down and tries to suppress it.
I didn't like Sparrow. I found her strangely condescending in her attitude to the dancers, who essentially are forced to sleep with the customers. The fact that she voluntarily chooses to be whipped every night with a barbed whip, rather than sleep with a customer, as if her purity is so much more important than the reta of the women somehow left a bad taste in my mouth, whivh I didn't really understand, because I voously the whole concept is vile, so good on her for refusing, but I suppose their reality was so bleak, the fact she's was the only one special enough and magically strong enough to fight it rubbed me up the wrong way.
I also found the three men were not particularly well characterised, or developed enough for me to feel any real interest in or connection with.
I also found the ending a little silly.
Now, whils this has been a pretty negative review, I am sure I am in the minority here, as there are loads of 5 star reviews, but this just didn't work for me. I need my world building to make more sense and characters I actually like. I thought the prologue was beautifully written, and I was excited after reading it, but it probably was my favourite part.
January 6, 2022
I need a moment to think about how much I loved this book.
Okay, oh my god! I really loved this book, and I need character art!
Formal review time:
In a world where magic has been eliminated - wait make that Good magic has been eliminated, bad magic known as murk lays over the land and there's a travelling circus filled with wonders and freaks.
The murk feeds on the vilest of desires, and people just want to escape. But if you join the circus whether your joining was voluntary or not, you can never escape. And there's no clowns at this circus, but there are plenty of oddities and magic.
This was a fabulous intro to a new series by Rory Miles!
This is a reverse harem story, but this book is more of the build up and exploring who the characters are and how they interact, which I really appreciated. There's plenty of spice and satisfaction, but there is a good balance of plot and story development.
Highly recommend for those over the age of 18.
I was gifted an advance reader copy in a giveaway, and am gladly leaving this review. I liked it so much I bought another copy of it!
Okay, oh my god! I really loved this book, and I need character art!
Formal review time:
In a world where magic has been eliminated - wait make that Good magic has been eliminated, bad magic known as murk lays over the land and there's a travelling circus filled with wonders and freaks.
The murk feeds on the vilest of desires, and people just want to escape. But if you join the circus whether your joining was voluntary or not, you can never escape. And there's no clowns at this circus, but there are plenty of oddities and magic.
This was a fabulous intro to a new series by Rory Miles!
This is a reverse harem story, but this book is more of the build up and exploring who the characters are and how they interact, which I really appreciated. There's plenty of spice and satisfaction, but there is a good balance of plot and story development.
Highly recommend for those over the age of 18.
I was gifted an advance reader copy in a giveaway, and am gladly leaving this review. I liked it so much I bought another copy of it!
January 4, 2022
When Sparrow (FMC Ro) is kidnapped and sold to repay a debt shes thrown into a world where behind the Glitz and Glamour of the circus hides murky darkness. A life where she shines in the big top but shes held like a bird in a gilded cage behind the curtain.
The sadistic Ringmaster - Igor runs The Caravan of Freaks where all the performers are scared of the consequences of not pleasing him and his high standards. Sparrow is a contradiction of a character i though. Bright and flashy when she performs, meek and submissive towards the Ringmaster so that she doesnt suffer any repercussions bu its when shes her defiant self thats when i liked her the best.
The dynamic between her, The Aerialist - Liam, The Seer - Malachi and The Freak - Koyote was both sweet (especially with Koyote) and steamy with the other two characters but still a slower burn.
Dark in places but with a gripping story and a brilliant cliffhanger ending. I just bloody loved it. Im dying to get my hands one the next book now
The sadistic Ringmaster - Igor runs The Caravan of Freaks where all the performers are scared of the consequences of not pleasing him and his high standards. Sparrow is a contradiction of a character i though. Bright and flashy when she performs, meek and submissive towards the Ringmaster so that she doesnt suffer any repercussions bu its when shes her defiant self thats when i liked her the best.
The dynamic between her, The Aerialist - Liam, The Seer - Malachi and The Freak - Koyote was both sweet (especially with Koyote) and steamy with the other two characters but still a slower burn.
Dark in places but with a gripping story and a brilliant cliffhanger ending. I just bloody loved it. Im dying to get my hands one the next book now
January 5, 2022
I so love all of Rory Miles books. This one is phenomenal. Storyline itself was fantastic Loved reading about Sparrow. She was such a great main character. And what a cliffhanger. No spoilers here. But after reading this story I need the next book. I highly recommend this book times 100. Just so so good!!!
January 11, 2022
Wow this book had me thinking of it for days after I finished it. It was just addicting.
April 26, 2022
A solid start to this series that I am dying to get the rest of. Absolutely obsessed with the carnival/circus setting and the dark and gritty atmosphere.
Sparrow is such a good main character, I love how strong she is without erasing her vulnerability. She is super well rounded in both her personality and how she is navigating through her horrible reality.
As far as the romance aspect of this book, there is a distance between Sparrow and her men that results in a very slow start. Given their circumstances it makes sense and I can’t wait to see how everything develops with them though I wish we would have gotten a little bit more of them forming these initial connections. The guys are already obsessed with Sparrow but for then most part things are just stating to blossom from her pov.
The writing is decent, ultimately kind of simple (not necessarily in a bad way), but the author is very repetitive in their descriptors and scene setting. Just about every time a few of the side characters had a scene the author would re-describe them as if it was the first time meeting them. I mostly noticed this with Star and the constant descriptions of how well she maintains her beard. Similarly, this happens with describing the different areas of the caravan. Repetitive and unnecessary most of the time.
I also feel like we are getting things at a fairly surface level. I’m not quite connecting with the book and *feeling* any emotional depth where I can see that I should.
Other than that, nothing particularly stood out in either a negative or positive way.
This book ends with quite a doozy and I am wildly conflicted on how I feel about it. I absolutely cannot wait for the next book!
Sparrow is such a good main character, I love how strong she is without erasing her vulnerability. She is super well rounded in both her personality and how she is navigating through her horrible reality.
As far as the romance aspect of this book, there is a distance between Sparrow and her men that results in a very slow start. Given their circumstances it makes sense and I can’t wait to see how everything develops with them though I wish we would have gotten a little bit more of them forming these initial connections. The guys are already obsessed with Sparrow but for then most part things are just stating to blossom from her pov.
The writing is decent, ultimately kind of simple (not necessarily in a bad way), but the author is very repetitive in their descriptors and scene setting. Just about every time a few of the side characters had a scene the author would re-describe them as if it was the first time meeting them. I mostly noticed this with Star and the constant descriptions of how well she maintains her beard. Similarly, this happens with describing the different areas of the caravan. Repetitive and unnecessary most of the time.
I also feel like we are getting things at a fairly surface level. I’m not quite connecting with the book and *feeling* any emotional depth where I can see that I should.
Other than that, nothing particularly stood out in either a negative or positive way.
This book ends with quite a doozy and I am wildly conflicted on how I feel about it. I absolutely cannot wait for the next book!
January 1, 2022
So... jumping into PBT it becomes pretty clear that the men in Sparrow's life are next level obsessive which only draws you in further🥵
This is a very different beast to Rory Miles' other works. There is a lot more world-building, a lot more mystique, a lot more general angst to hurt you. Reading PBT, I truly ached for Sparrow's life. Being trapped in the Caravan of Freaks is a misery unto itself.
That misery is made a bit easier when you have men like Liam, Malachi, and Koyote. Not to mention the King's scene getting into all sorts of voyeuristic wonderment.
I had a bit of a difficult time getting into the story but once I was able to wrap my head around it, I was hooked. As I have been to all of Rory's books so far.
The harem at Ro's disposal is sinful. Ugh. I love them the most of all the RH Rory has given her readers to this point. You know the image of Leo Dicaprio biting his fist from Wolf of Wall Street? That was me through EVERY SINGLE SPICY SCENE. So dang hot.
I went into the entire book rooting for Malachi. Something about the Seer just drew me in. Actually reading the book, I adored Liam because the Aerialist is danger incarcerate. BUT. The true star for me? Koyote. The Freak. Hot. Tamales. His innocence. His obsession. His NEED. SWOOOOOOOOON.
Oh. And William? 😏😏😏 I see you, kind sir. I see you.
And finally. That ending.... uhhhhhhhh. Record scratch. TF was that?!
This is a very different beast to Rory Miles' other works. There is a lot more world-building, a lot more mystique, a lot more general angst to hurt you. Reading PBT, I truly ached for Sparrow's life. Being trapped in the Caravan of Freaks is a misery unto itself.
That misery is made a bit easier when you have men like Liam, Malachi, and Koyote. Not to mention the King's scene getting into all sorts of voyeuristic wonderment.
I had a bit of a difficult time getting into the story but once I was able to wrap my head around it, I was hooked. As I have been to all of Rory's books so far.
The harem at Ro's disposal is sinful. Ugh. I love them the most of all the RH Rory has given her readers to this point. You know the image of Leo Dicaprio biting his fist from Wolf of Wall Street? That was me through EVERY SINGLE SPICY SCENE. So dang hot.
I went into the entire book rooting for Malachi. Something about the Seer just drew me in. Actually reading the book, I adored Liam because the Aerialist is danger incarcerate. BUT. The true star for me? Koyote. The Freak. Hot. Tamales. His innocence. His obsession. His NEED. SWOOOOOOOOON.
Oh. And William? 😏😏😏 I see you, kind sir. I see you.
And finally. That ending.... uhhhhhhhh. Record scratch. TF was that?!
January 7, 2022
This was such a different book than I usually read. It took me a bit to get into it just because I don’t usually enjoy circus theme stories, but once I got a few chapters in I started to really enjoy it. The book is definitely dark. It fit with my stance on the circus being scary. I liked the mystical vibes and got hooked on the characters though.
The book starts with Sparrow being kidnapped by a troll to pay off a debt. She is taken to the Caravan of Freaks. The Carnival is run by the Ringmaster, an evil magician that traps people there to work for him. No one is allowed to leave and he makes sure to punish those that don’t obey his rules. Sparrow has been part of the carnival for a year now. She is a cornac but she holds a secret only a few know about. We also meet Liam the aerialist, Malachi the seer, and Koyote the freak. All three men care about Sparrow and want to protect her. I absolutely loved all the guys, but Koyote won my heart. I can’t wait to find out more about him and Malachi.
The title for this book is perfect. All the characters in this story are broken in their own ways. They are forced into this life and have to deal with the pain and suffering every day without any hope of being free. For the story being mainly around the carnival, there is so much mystery and world development. I can’t wait for the next book to see how the relationships grow and what else is in store, especially after that ending!
The book starts with Sparrow being kidnapped by a troll to pay off a debt. She is taken to the Caravan of Freaks. The Carnival is run by the Ringmaster, an evil magician that traps people there to work for him. No one is allowed to leave and he makes sure to punish those that don’t obey his rules. Sparrow has been part of the carnival for a year now. She is a cornac but she holds a secret only a few know about. We also meet Liam the aerialist, Malachi the seer, and Koyote the freak. All three men care about Sparrow and want to protect her. I absolutely loved all the guys, but Koyote won my heart. I can’t wait to find out more about him and Malachi.
The title for this book is perfect. All the characters in this story are broken in their own ways. They are forced into this life and have to deal with the pain and suffering every day without any hope of being free. For the story being mainly around the carnival, there is so much mystery and world development. I can’t wait for the next book to see how the relationships grow and what else is in store, especially after that ending!
January 22, 2022
“To the unknowing, the circus is majestic. Marvelous. Mysterious.”
For Sparrow, it’s hell. She’s kidnapped to pay off someone’s debt and ends up trapped working for the Ringmaster, a dark magician but she’s not alone. Everyone working for the Ringmaster is a slave to the circus.
An aerialist with a deadly touch, a demon ‘freak’ and a mischievous seer… all after Sparrow’s heart and want to protect her from the Ringmaster. Liam is my favorite.😏
•
While Pretty Broken Things is an adult fantasy romance it’s also more then that. It’s not your typical circus setting, it’s a unique plot with interesting characters and the cliffhanger leaves you wanting to jump into the next book BUT it’s not out yet (thanks for torturing me Rory).
There are three more books in this series- the first one felt like it’s setting it up for the rest of the series so I’m excited to see how the second book goes. I need to know what happens with Sparrow and the goal of escaping/defeating the Ringmaster?! I need answers.😱
•
Rory already had me with her dark mafia romance series (vampires). Her new fantasy romance story filled with fae, demons, magicians and more didn’t disappoint. Remember, this has dark themes so it may not be for everyone– and that’s ok. 18+ readers.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.4/5
For Sparrow, it’s hell. She’s kidnapped to pay off someone’s debt and ends up trapped working for the Ringmaster, a dark magician but she’s not alone. Everyone working for the Ringmaster is a slave to the circus.
An aerialist with a deadly touch, a demon ‘freak’ and a mischievous seer… all after Sparrow’s heart and want to protect her from the Ringmaster. Liam is my favorite.😏
•
While Pretty Broken Things is an adult fantasy romance it’s also more then that. It’s not your typical circus setting, it’s a unique plot with interesting characters and the cliffhanger leaves you wanting to jump into the next book BUT it’s not out yet (thanks for torturing me Rory).
There are three more books in this series- the first one felt like it’s setting it up for the rest of the series so I’m excited to see how the second book goes. I need to know what happens with Sparrow and the goal of escaping/defeating the Ringmaster?! I need answers.😱
•
Rory already had me with her dark mafia romance series (vampires). Her new fantasy romance story filled with fae, demons, magicians and more didn’t disappoint. Remember, this has dark themes so it may not be for everyone– and that’s ok. 18+ readers.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.4/5
December 8, 2021
Pretty Broken Things is the carnival story you didn’t know you needed until after you read it. Also, Rory Miles broke my brain at the end and I spent the next few hours going “what just happened.” So yeah, you’re going to want to check out this book! It’s the first in the series, and I’m already itching for the next.
Sparrow gets taken from her life and sold to the Carnival of Freaks to settle a debt that of course had nothing to do with her. But such was life in Valador, nothing is sacred, not even your own life.
The Ringmaster is a depraved man, and everyone who works for him are bound to him and the circus, unable to leave. Performing every day, no matter what.
The Aerialist, The Freak, and The Seer - Liam, Koyote, and Malachi respectively. These three men are Sparrow’s anchors, even when she doesn’t realize it right away. They’ll do whatever they can for her. I can’t wait to see their relationships blossom.
The majority of the story takes place a year after Sparrow joins the carnival. Things start changing for her, but she doesn’t allow it to break her. She hadn’t yet, she’s not going to start now. Her spirit in the face of danger is admirable and even the few friends she’d managed to make there can see it. What’s Rory Miles got in store for us in book 2??
Sparrow gets taken from her life and sold to the Carnival of Freaks to settle a debt that of course had nothing to do with her. But such was life in Valador, nothing is sacred, not even your own life.
The Ringmaster is a depraved man, and everyone who works for him are bound to him and the circus, unable to leave. Performing every day, no matter what.
The Aerialist, The Freak, and The Seer - Liam, Koyote, and Malachi respectively. These three men are Sparrow’s anchors, even when she doesn’t realize it right away. They’ll do whatever they can for her. I can’t wait to see their relationships blossom.
The majority of the story takes place a year after Sparrow joins the carnival. Things start changing for her, but she doesn’t allow it to break her. She hadn’t yet, she’s not going to start now. Her spirit in the face of danger is admirable and even the few friends she’d managed to make there can see it. What’s Rory Miles got in store for us in book 2??
January 12, 2022
Great characters and story
I’ll be honest, I wasn’t sure what to think about this book after reading the blurb. However, the author hasn’t disappointed me yet so I knew I had to give it a shot. It did not disappoint. The book ended up being so much more than the blurb made it out to be. There was mystery, drama, love and a very intense dislike of a few characters. Then that ending… It has me hooked.
Firstly, this isn’t just a regular circus within our modern world. The circus and the world are more complex. The author was able to very simply create and describe this world and is able to bring you right into it. This circus travels around the different lands and it’s run by a very evil and powerful ringmaster. The performers aren’t working of their own accord, most are basically slaves to the circus and the ringmaster. Perfect setting for constant attention.
I think what I really liked about the story was that each of the characters, even the side characters, were so distinguishable. You knew who they were, their purpose and weren’t confused with their interactions.
This book was a surprise and I really enjoyed this read. I cannot wait to see the aftermath of the events from the finale of this book.
4.5/5
I’ll be honest, I wasn’t sure what to think about this book after reading the blurb. However, the author hasn’t disappointed me yet so I knew I had to give it a shot. It did not disappoint. The book ended up being so much more than the blurb made it out to be. There was mystery, drama, love and a very intense dislike of a few characters. Then that ending… It has me hooked.
Firstly, this isn’t just a regular circus within our modern world. The circus and the world are more complex. The author was able to very simply create and describe this world and is able to bring you right into it. This circus travels around the different lands and it’s run by a very evil and powerful ringmaster. The performers aren’t working of their own accord, most are basically slaves to the circus and the ringmaster. Perfect setting for constant attention.
I think what I really liked about the story was that each of the characters, even the side characters, were so distinguishable. You knew who they were, their purpose and weren’t confused with their interactions.
This book was a surprise and I really enjoyed this read. I cannot wait to see the aftermath of the events from the finale of this book.
4.5/5
December 2, 2021
Holy $%&@*, you guys!!! THIS BOOK!! Seriously, just let me live in that world! The world building that has gone into this book is phenomenal. The Caravan of Freaks may seem mystical and magical, but it's all a manipulation and if you can see past that, you will see the haunting darkness that lies beneath.
I am in love with Sparrow, or Ro for short. She finds herself there, not of her own free will, but has adapted. She's defiant, loved by many, envied by a few, and does what she needs to do to survive.
Liam, her aerial partner, is a bit on the possessive side and a bit broody, but I just love him! Koyote is so sweet and I just want to bundle him up and fight off anyone who tries to hurt him (I'm looking at you, Rory 👀👀). And finally, Malachi, he is just *swoon*, LOVE! They all want to protect her and do so in their own ways, but also band together and come to her aid when she needs them.
This whole books is beautiful. It's haunting. It's mysterious. It's AMAZING! I was so immersed in this world that I felt like I was right there. I cannot wait for more in this world. Seriously, don't sleep on this book, it's just.. *sigh* amazing.
I am in love with Sparrow, or Ro for short. She finds herself there, not of her own free will, but has adapted. She's defiant, loved by many, envied by a few, and does what she needs to do to survive.
Liam, her aerial partner, is a bit on the possessive side and a bit broody, but I just love him! Koyote is so sweet and I just want to bundle him up and fight off anyone who tries to hurt him (I'm looking at you, Rory 👀👀). And finally, Malachi, he is just *swoon*, LOVE! They all want to protect her and do so in their own ways, but also band together and come to her aid when she needs them.
This whole books is beautiful. It's haunting. It's mysterious. It's AMAZING! I was so immersed in this world that I felt like I was right there. I cannot wait for more in this world. Seriously, don't sleep on this book, it's just.. *sigh* amazing.
December 1, 2021
Words can't describe how much I love this authors writing style, character building and plot lines. They all fit together like a 2000 piece puzzle and juuuust when you think you have it, you find you've missed a piece and start the frantic search in your house looking for the missing piece.
The missing piece is the next book, and all books after that. To think there are more after this and I don't have them literally breaks my heart and crushes my will to live. I've learnt, after a bit of trial and error, to take the next day off after her releases because I will reread, and read again, therefore work is not important.
These characters feel so fleshed out and almost alive, unlike so many fantasy books out there at the moment. I can almost see them in my mind, they all feel different and I can see who is doing what, even in a multi-person scene and I love that so, so, SO much! Bring on book 2 because I am now an addict to this series.
Send help. It's only the first 😫😫😭😭😭
The missing piece is the next book, and all books after that. To think there are more after this and I don't have them literally breaks my heart and crushes my will to live. I've learnt, after a bit of trial and error, to take the next day off after her releases because I will reread, and read again, therefore work is not important.
These characters feel so fleshed out and almost alive, unlike so many fantasy books out there at the moment. I can almost see them in my mind, they all feel different and I can see who is doing what, even in a multi-person scene and I love that so, so, SO much! Bring on book 2 because I am now an addict to this series.
Send help. It's only the first 😫😫😭😭😭
January 6, 2022
Screams of anguish
Ro hasn't earned her place in this caravan. He only fault was enjoying a few too many and getting home late. Now she's forced to perform for people every night to earn her keep. The men in her life are distant and overly cautious for the most part as not to cause her harm. Koyote is my by far my favorite. He just wants to make her smile no matter what it takes. Liam is next because although he wants her he doesn't want to share all of himself but trusting that she won't reject him. And I'm not a fan of Malachi at all. He's creepy to me. If he didn't end up in the harem I wouldn't be hurt. Although I do think the brother acrobats might play a role in the next book. I feel like there are more performers that care about Sparrow and his it that will come forward like Mol did. I am excited for June. This was a nice change of pace good storyline without all the spice.
Ro hasn't earned her place in this caravan. He only fault was enjoying a few too many and getting home late. Now she's forced to perform for people every night to earn her keep. The men in her life are distant and overly cautious for the most part as not to cause her harm. Koyote is my by far my favorite. He just wants to make her smile no matter what it takes. Liam is next because although he wants her he doesn't want to share all of himself but trusting that she won't reject him. And I'm not a fan of Malachi at all. He's creepy to me. If he didn't end up in the harem I wouldn't be hurt. Although I do think the brother acrobats might play a role in the next book. I feel like there are more performers that care about Sparrow and his it that will come forward like Mol did. I am excited for June. This was a nice change of pace good storyline without all the spice.
December 21, 2021
Sparrow is kidnapped from her home and then traded to the Circus Ringmaster to clear a debt. The Ringmaster proves he is evil from their very first meeting. With the help of three males that have taken a liking to her, and her BFF, can Sparrow survive the Circus and the despicable Ringmaster?
This is such a fantastic and unique read! It is definitely dark, but oh so delicious! The world building in this book is incredible! The picture that is created is vivid and enthralling. I loved this stunning World!
I absolutely adored all of the dynamic, original characters. The characters and character development are amazing! I loved, or loved to hate, every single character!
I don’t want to say anything more and risk giving away spoilers, but I highly recommend this incredible book and am super excited to see what comes next!
This is such a fantastic and unique read! It is definitely dark, but oh so delicious! The world building in this book is incredible! The picture that is created is vivid and enthralling. I loved this stunning World!
I absolutely adored all of the dynamic, original characters. The characters and character development are amazing! I loved, or loved to hate, every single character!
I don’t want to say anything more and risk giving away spoilers, but I highly recommend this incredible book and am super excited to see what comes next!
December 27, 2021
I was absolutely ENRAPTURED by this tale!
I’m struggling to review this book as i don’t want to spoiled anything and I really think you need to go into it blind like I did; I was sucked into the story from the very first chapter.
There’s only one series of Rory’s I haven’t read but I must say, I’ve loved watching her writing and story development grow in all areas; the path she takes us on during this novel is by far her darkest and I adored every second of it.
The world was honestly heartbreaking and the characters just as broken; there’s a lot of suffering and pain in this book but it also doesn’t snuff out the light and kindness that our MC holds which was just incredible to read. The romance was intense and the smut was absolutely off the charts of hotness!
I’m really freaking worried about the events during the last scenes tho!!!!!
I’m struggling to review this book as i don’t want to spoiled anything and I really think you need to go into it blind like I did; I was sucked into the story from the very first chapter.
There’s only one series of Rory’s I haven’t read but I must say, I’ve loved watching her writing and story development grow in all areas; the path she takes us on during this novel is by far her darkest and I adored every second of it.
The world was honestly heartbreaking and the characters just as broken; there’s a lot of suffering and pain in this book but it also doesn’t snuff out the light and kindness that our MC holds which was just incredible to read. The romance was intense and the smut was absolutely off the charts of hotness!
I’m really freaking worried about the events during the last scenes tho!!!!!
December 18, 2021
I never thought I would be into a circus type story but I absolutely loved this one! Ro has had such a tough life and I am getting the sense that we are really just on the edge of her story. Rory has painted a beautiful illusion of what Ro’s reality and potential are but you can sense that you’re only seeing the very corner of that painting. I can’t wait to know more about Ro’s men as well and how they’re going to help her in light of where this book ended and with how powerful the Ringmaster is. I loved Star too and I hope she is ok given the circumstances (and that some retribution is in sight for her as well). I can’t wait for more and here’s hoping Ro unlocks and harnesses everything she’s got inside her!
December 29, 2021
I’ve loved Rory’s books before her depth of characters and world building are always fascinating and intriguing but this book really transported me into something new and wondrous. I’ve noticed a new favourite of the RH world surrounding the circus and I’m so on board with it especially when this sort of darkly captivating story comes around. Sparrow our FMC is kidnapped and paid as a debt to the circus of freaks, the ringmaster rules all challenge him and you won’t like the consequences. Between Sparrow’s mystery gift giver, the Seer who will give her the little help he can and the aerialist who seems to enjoy her fear on the trapeze is their really any hope or trust in this circus of freaks especially when she holds a secret that would mean her death?
January 4, 2022
Sparrow is out late she ends up kidnapped by a troll who trades her to end his debts.
She ends up in the Circus, where several men have been keeping an eye on her.
Liam the Aerials who would do anything to protect her.
Koyote the freak a secret admirer and gift giver.
Malachi the seer who watches over her always.
Igor the cruel ringmaster and dark magician who won't let her go.
Can Sparrow ever go to her old life again can she take the men who love her and escape the ringmaster.
This is a fantastic tale that Rory Miles draws you in but becare you may never view the circus the same again 😉. It is a deliciously dark tale. I highly recommend and I can not wait for book 2 this did end in a omg ending.
She ends up in the Circus, where several men have been keeping an eye on her.
Liam the Aerials who would do anything to protect her.
Koyote the freak a secret admirer and gift giver.
Malachi the seer who watches over her always.
Igor the cruel ringmaster and dark magician who won't let her go.
Can Sparrow ever go to her old life again can she take the men who love her and escape the ringmaster.
This is a fantastic tale that Rory Miles draws you in but becare you may never view the circus the same again 😉. It is a deliciously dark tale. I highly recommend and I can not wait for book 2 this did end in a omg ending.
January 5, 2022
Transports the reader into another world
Sparrow, a fae with forbidden magic, is out late one night when she fins herself running from a troll. As the story progresses an unwilling trade occurs, time does not wear her down, and relying on other performers could be the only way to survive when the kid gloves are removed. Rory Miles transports the reader into another world in Pretty Broken Things. This is a dark romance with scenes of severe punishment perpetrated against the main characters. I look forward to seeing how they handle the situation they find themselves in at the end of the cliffhanger in this book.
I read this book with my Kindle Unlimited subscription and I received a free copy of the book from the author. I had the opportunity to review or not.
Sparrow, a fae with forbidden magic, is out late one night when she fins herself running from a troll. As the story progresses an unwilling trade occurs, time does not wear her down, and relying on other performers could be the only way to survive when the kid gloves are removed. Rory Miles transports the reader into another world in Pretty Broken Things. This is a dark romance with scenes of severe punishment perpetrated against the main characters. I look forward to seeing how they handle the situation they find themselves in at the end of the cliffhanger in this book.
I read this book with my Kindle Unlimited subscription and I received a free copy of the book from the author. I had the opportunity to review or not.
January 10, 2022
I have never read a book set in a circus before so I was a little intrigued. But this is no ordinary circus ... Welcome to the Caravan of Freaks!
Sparrow (Ro) is a pink haired fae and on her way home one night she is captured and kidnapped by a troll. There is no escape as she has to leash her magic as it is forbidden and if anyone realises she posssessses this magic she could be killed. The troll hands her over to The Ringmaster, an evil magician who punishes the performers for the slightest thing and once you are there you can never escape.
This was a little dark and a slow burn why choose romance. It ends with Rory Miles usual rip your hair out in frustration cliff hanger ending and I thoroughly enjoyed it
Sparrow (Ro) is a pink haired fae and on her way home one night she is captured and kidnapped by a troll. There is no escape as she has to leash her magic as it is forbidden and if anyone realises she posssessses this magic she could be killed. The troll hands her over to The Ringmaster, an evil magician who punishes the performers for the slightest thing and once you are there you can never escape.
This was a little dark and a slow burn why choose romance. It ends with Rory Miles usual rip your hair out in frustration cliff hanger ending and I thoroughly enjoyed it
January 12, 2022
OMG……. What the gloriousness is this. This is definitely one of those books I didn’t know that I needed. It sucks you into the dark side of the circus and rolls you around in it until you are obsessed. Sparrow gets thrown into the circus after she is kidnapped and traded to the ringmaster. Right from the start you know the ringmaster is going to be bad news but you get to see the people Sparrow will need to trust in order to survive. Things get going pretty good until you are shoved off that cliff! 😱 Absolutely fantastic!! Rory Miles will do amazing things to your mind with this book and you won’t know what to do with your self at the end! Definitely worth the read! Cannot wait for the next one! 💜🖤
December 5, 2021
This was a departure from what I’ve read previously by this author. But I have to say she rocked it. She created a new world and immersed us in the new relationships between a multitude of characters and the feelings they are all struggling with.
It does end in a cliffhanger but it wasn’t crushing. It felt like a natural place for this first book to end. Of course desperately wanting to know more, but that’s how it goes. Lol.
We learn alittle about Liam’s background in this story but I’m eager to learn about Malachi and Koyote too. ❤️ great start to a new series and one that I am here for. Take me to the circus!
It does end in a cliffhanger but it wasn’t crushing. It felt like a natural place for this first book to end. Of course desperately wanting to know more, but that’s how it goes. Lol.
We learn alittle about Liam’s background in this story but I’m eager to learn about Malachi and Koyote too. ❤️ great start to a new series and one that I am here for. Take me to the circus!
December 13, 2021
This book about broke me! I loved following Sparrow in the circus and seeing an interesting twist. There is some dark and twisted parts but I absolutely loved every second of it.
I will say I was not a big fan of the King but.....
Rory really knocked this one out of the park and you will be gripping the edge of your seat and falling in love with these characters. Each of the men have their own ability and you slowly delve deeper into them and no of them have easy or good pasts. Sparrows performance as well just makes you feel like you are there watching it for yourself. I cannot wait to find out what happens next after that ending!!
I will say I was not a big fan of the King but.....
Rory really knocked this one out of the park and you will be gripping the edge of your seat and falling in love with these characters. Each of the men have their own ability and you slowly delve deeper into them and no of them have easy or good pasts. Sparrows performance as well just makes you feel like you are there watching it for yourself. I cannot wait to find out what happens next after that ending!!
December 30, 2021
I have loved every circus dark romance book that I’ve ever read, and this didn’t disappoint. The world is full of danger, there is no clean, fresh air and sunny days in this realm. Everything in a deals, debts and pretty lies. The circus is no different. At the circus the big top shows the fantasy, while the reality is very different.
I loved reading about Ro, Liam, Malachi,and Koyote. Nothing is as it seems, and everyone has secrets. Some that can be shared and others that are a death sentence. I’m excited to see how this story evolves, and the connections within the harem as well. This is reverse harem, so Ro doesn’t have the choose and that always makes me happy.
I loved reading about Ro, Liam, Malachi,and Koyote. Nothing is as it seems, and everyone has secrets. Some that can be shared and others that are a death sentence. I’m excited to see how this story evolves, and the connections within the harem as well. This is reverse harem, so Ro doesn’t have the choose and that always makes me happy.
January 6, 2022
Phenomenal
This was definitely a darker story than what Rory delivers, but dang... she nailed!! I am in absolute awe of this book. I love everything about it!
The world building made me feel like I was there, and that the murk was trying to bring me in.
The guys are amazing and so very sweet and partially psychotic which definitely does things for me.
Our FMC Ro has a heart of gold even with the horrible postion she finds herself in. I can't wait to see her get her happy ending. She deserves it after the life she has had to live since she was taken.
You outdid yourself Rory and I can't wait for more!
This was definitely a darker story than what Rory delivers, but dang... she nailed!! I am in absolute awe of this book. I love everything about it!
The world building made me feel like I was there, and that the murk was trying to bring me in.
The guys are amazing and so very sweet and partially psychotic which definitely does things for me.
Our FMC Ro has a heart of gold even with the horrible postion she finds herself in. I can't wait to see her get her happy ending. She deserves it after the life she has had to live since she was taken.
You outdid yourself Rory and I can't wait for more!
January 7, 2022
Just....W O W 😮💗!!!
I'll fully admit it took me about two chapters to get into this book, but once I did it was full speed ahead. Be prepared for a massive cliffhanger which will leave you desperate for the followup book 😉. The author did a great job of world building and slowly developing the characters and their relationships. I can't wait to see where this all goes as I'm sure there are MANY reveals to come and probably a few surprises even to the characters themselves. This is a deliciously moody, dark book, and our main characters will have you cheering for them along the way. I cannot wait to see what's to come for them.
I'll fully admit it took me about two chapters to get into this book, but once I did it was full speed ahead. Be prepared for a massive cliffhanger which will leave you desperate for the followup book 😉. The author did a great job of world building and slowly developing the characters and their relationships. I can't wait to see where this all goes as I'm sure there are MANY reveals to come and probably a few surprises even to the characters themselves. This is a deliciously moody, dark book, and our main characters will have you cheering for them along the way. I cannot wait to see what's to come for them.
January 11, 2022
A much slower read for miss Miles than I am originally used to, but I didn’t mind it! I loved her relationship with the seer, I’m not sure why but he was easily my favorite.
Screw the ring master! I literally can’t stand him and truly think sparrow could crush him within seconds if she truly chose too.
I understand she’s in hiding, but why have so much power and do nothing with it? I wish we would have seen more of her hidden darkness.
A different take on the few circus stories I have read but I actually enjoyed this one! It’s dark and twisty and shows what that life could be like in the wrong hands.
I’m excited to see what happens next in this crazy world of freaks!
Screw the ring master! I literally can’t stand him and truly think sparrow could crush him within seconds if she truly chose too.
I understand she’s in hiding, but why have so much power and do nothing with it? I wish we would have seen more of her hidden darkness.
A different take on the few circus stories I have read but I actually enjoyed this one! It’s dark and twisty and shows what that life could be like in the wrong hands.
I’m excited to see what happens next in this crazy world of freaks!
March 1, 2022
DNF (did not finish). What made the book unfinishable in your opinion?
I really couldn't get into this book. The villain who is the ringmaster is cruel and evil. He somehow has enslaved everyone in the circus, and no one tries to fight against him. There's this ongoing hint that the unseelie magic that some of them have is worse than putting up with the ringmaster. I find that a very hard thing to believe considering all the cruel things that bring master dust to everyone. The world building was confusing and didn't make sense to me. I only made it to the 14% mark before I lost interest. So, I'll be giving the book an average rating since I didn't make it very far.
I really couldn't get into this book. The villain who is the ringmaster is cruel and evil. He somehow has enslaved everyone in the circus, and no one tries to fight against him. There's this ongoing hint that the unseelie magic that some of them have is worse than putting up with the ringmaster. I find that a very hard thing to believe considering all the cruel things that bring master dust to everyone. The world building was confusing and didn't make sense to me. I only made it to the 14% mark before I lost interest. So, I'll be giving the book an average rating since I didn't make it very far.
December 9, 2021
I was drawn in from the first page and completely hooked. The world the author creates is so vivid and captivating. Sparrow is a great female character with the perfect combination of strength and vulnerability. Liam, Koyote, Malcom are each unique and interesting male characters and I can wait to see how the dynamic between the develops throughout the series. And the ringmaster? *chef's kiss* he is the perfect villain that you just love to hate. Fair warning, the book does end on a cliffhanger that will leave you impatient for the next book.
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