FICTION

The Illusionists

by Rosie Thomas
Overlook. Jul. 2014. 480p. ISBN 9781468309904. $27.95; ebk. ISBN 9781468309911. F
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Artist's model Eliza Dunlop knows she was meant for something extraordinary, and a chance encounter with a pair of illusionists, the memorably named Devil Wix and his talented partner Carlo Bonomi, quickly draws her into the exciting world of Victorian theater. Courted by a variety of ardent suitors, Eliza finds herself increasingly intrigued by the charismatic Devil and discovers that stage life may be more exciting and dangerous than she ever imagined.
VERDICT Thomas (The Kashmir Shawl) does her best with the romantic story, creating a brooding hero and plucky heroine who historical romance fans should enjoy cheering for. The rest of the plot unfortunately feels underdeveloped in comparison, and the novel could have ended much sooner than it does. Thomas's vivid characters and lively pace combined with well-chosen details of theatrical life at the close of the 19th century, however, make this a generally enjoyable lighter read for historical fiction fans with an interest in the late Victorian era or in the lives of "show folk."
Reviewed by Mara Bandy, Champaign P.L., IL , Jun 01, 2014
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