![]() There is an allure given to the life of the circus through vivid description, though the reader is always aware that the main theme is arguably one of a more existential nature. Macneal’s writing is sure of itself and successfully delivers a believable and immersive narrative, which contemporary readers are likely able to relate to despite the novel’s historical context. The fantastical entwines with aspects of blunt reality, with the circus acting much as a theatrical setting upon which the protagonist is forced to embrace her natural-born identity rather than the various ones given to her by others. When her fame overpowers that of the ringmaster, however, Nell’s place in the circus, and her marketed identity become threatened, and those closest to her must decide between competing sets of values.įeaturing an array of diverse and interesting characters, each with their own internal conflicts that lend to the overall plot, the novel is able to paint an eloquent picture of Victorian-era England. She forms relationships and curates a community for herself-the likes of which she never experienced back home. Through performing, Nell gains confidence and a newfound sense of ownership, both over her body and the circumstances in which she finds herself. Soon known as the ‘Queen of the Moon and Stars,’ Nell’s image is plastered across posters and she quickly gains fame. Though stung by her father’s disloyalty, Nell finds that she excels within the circus. When Jasper Jupiter’s Circus of Wonders arrives in their small village, Nell’s peculiar appearance is discovered, and in an act of exploitation and betrayal, Nell’s father sells her off as a performer. Her brother is set to be married, and facing his potential absence, she worries over what may become of her life. The villagers scorn Nell for her birthmarks-placed in a patchwork over her skin, they distinguish her as being someone ‘other,’ and as such, she is isolated. ![]() Her life is a quiet one, with the companionship of her brother and father and her enduring love for the neighbouring sea. The novel centers largely around the character development of Nell, a 19-year-old girl from a small coastal village. Although the setting promotes images of affluence and otherworldly beauty, with magic at the helm, the author appears to capitalize on themes of power, control, and identity. ![]() It's no wonder why Daniel Bukszpan, author of The Encyclopedia of Heavy Metal, acknowledges Las Cruces as "one of the genre's leading proponents.Set in a somewhat fantastical version of 1860s era England, Elizabeth Macneal’s newest work, Circus of Wonders, functions as an enthralling escapist novel. Guitarist George Trevino founded Las Cruces back in 1994 in San Antonio, Texas and has since made his mark across The Lone Star State and the American doom-metal scene. Moreover, Las Cruces is currently entertaining new record labels as well as scheduling a summer 2013 U.S. In other news, Las Cruces will now be managed by Leigh Olson Management and Media Relations who is the wife and personal manager of Jeff "Oly" Olson, original drummer of doom-metal legends TROUBLE. The band will also re-release their entire catalogue to include a vinyl edition of 1998's Ringmaster, initially released via Brainticket Records. The album will be a follow up to 2010's Dusk released worldwide via Brainticket Records. Texas doom-metal veterans LAS CRUCES are currently writing new material and preparing to enter the studio for their 2013 as-yet-untitled fourth full-length album.
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