Publication Date: Available Now from Legend Press
Source: review copy
The Amazing Arden is the most famous female illusionist of her day, renowned for her notorious trick of sawing a man in half on stage. But one night she swaps her trademark saw for an axe.
When Arden’s husband is found dead later that night, the answer seems clear, most of all to young policeman Virgil Holt.
Captured and taken into custody, all seems set for Arden’s swift confession. But she has a different story to tell. Even handcuffed and alone, Arden is far from powerless, and what she reveals is as unbelievable as it is spellbinding.
I have mixed feelings about The Magician’s Lie (even though I enjoyed it thoroughly) I thought the writing was GREAT, got all caught up in the story then it fell somewhat, away from the description of it. Not necessarily a bad thing but this one does not do what it says on the tin, at least in my opinion. The title suggested some sort of something that never really materialised. The Magician’s life story as told to the policeman that arrested her was highly compelling but somewhat unexpected based on the blurb which seems to imply either a kind of “now you see me” type magic twisty story or at least a strange or unusual outcome.
That was not the case – this was more drama than thriller, more character study than mystery and as THAT it works extremely well. Arden is an intriguing character whose life is fascinating – Virgil is the one chosen to hear her tale and as it unfolds you will find it positively gripping. There is an atmospheric tone to the writing which sets the scene beautifully, there is a wait and see kind of feeling to it, the occasional insight into the world of magic is intriguing and overall this was a wonderful read.
Enjoyable, clever characters and an emotive story make The Magician’s Lie a great story but I would recommend going into it with no expectations and just going with the flow.
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