Step right up and experience The Last Freakshow: Flame and Fortune, the first book in a sprawling five-part series by S.E. Johnson. This epic saga follows the Cortez Family Carnival, a unique troupe of misfits and oddities, across an entire American century. From their humble beginnings to their rise to fame, witness their love, loss, and the extraordinary bonds forged within their unconventional family. Prepare for a thrilling, hilarious, and heartbreaking journey filled with unforgettable characters and surprising twists, as told with the captivating storytelling that has drawn comparisons to John Irving, Stephen King, and Ray Bradbury. This isn't just a freakshow; it's a captivating tale of the human spirit in all its glorious absurdity.
Review The Last Freakshow
Wow, "The Last Freakshow: Flame and Fortune" was quite the ride! I absolutely devoured this book, and honestly, I'm still reeling from the experience. It’s one of those books that just grabs you from the very first page and doesn't let go. The description on the back cover doesn't even begin to capture the sheer scope and ambition of S.E. Johnson's storytelling.
The premise itself – a century-spanning saga of a travelling freakshow – is inherently captivating, but it's the characters that truly steal the show. Johnson has crafted such a vibrant, eclectic cast of misfits and outcasts, each with their own unique quirks, vulnerabilities, and strengths. You fall in love with them, you worry about them, you root for them through thick and thin. It's a truly remarkable ensemble, and I found myself completely invested in their interwoven destinies.
The narrative itself is a beautiful blend of genres. There's the heart-wrenching drama of their personal lives, the thrilling moments of high-stakes performance, the sprinkles of magical realism that add a touch of whimsy, and even darker, more unsettling elements that keep you on the edge of your seat. It seamlessly blends historical fiction with elements of fantasy, creating a unique and utterly compelling reading experience. The pacing is masterful; it never drags, always keeping you engaged with the unfolding story, even as it jumps through decades and across the vast landscapes of America.
One moment you're laughing at the antics of the carnival's inhabitants, the next you're holding your breath as they face incredible hardships, and then you're wiping away a tear at the tenderness and unexpected love that binds them together. It's a truly emotional rollercoaster, and I found myself deeply affected by the characters' journeys. The author skillfully balances the lighthearted and the serious, the joyous and the heartbreaking, creating a story that is both profoundly moving and immensely entertaining.
The comparisons to John Irving, Stephen King, and Ray Bradbury aren't hyperbole; they genuinely capture the essence of the book's unique blend of genres and storytelling styles. This is a book that feels both epic in scope and deeply intimate in its character studies. Johnson's writing is simply dazzling; they clearly possess a rare talent for crafting memorable characters and weaving together a captivating narrative.
While the ending of "Flame and Fortune" left me breathless and wanting more, it also served as a powerful reminder of the incredible journey that lies ahead. This is just the first installment in a five-book series, and the wait for the next book is already excruciating! But that's a testament to the quality of the storytelling; it’s left me so hungry for more of the Cortez Family Carnival and their unforgettable story. This is a true must-read, a literary masterpiece in the making. Highly, highly recommend!
Information
- Dimensions: 6 x 1.25 x 9 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 552
- Publication date: 2024
Book table of contents
- CHAPTER ONE
- CHAPTER Two
- FIRST INTERMISSION
- CHAPTER THREE
- CHAPTER FouR
- CHAPTER FIvE
- SECOND INTERMISSION
- AFTERWORD & ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
Preview Book
