alexabookish's review against another edition
4.0
this is hard because i really loved most of this book. i loved the atmosphere and the whole cruise ship carnival vibe, the murders were so good and gruesome(that sounds so weird lol but the murder scenes were just really good). thomas, as always is such a gem. everything he says just makes me fall more in love with him. i also loved that liza was a big part of the story. i really love her and audrey rose’s relationship. they always support each other and lift each other up and i love to see woman supporting women. but okay, Mephistopheles. he can choke, i truly just ugh. he is the reason things went wrong!! audrey rose honestly started to make decisions and do stuff that just irritated me, which is so uncharacteristic because i absolutely love her. but the way she acted with him just really made me question her. the whole love triangle just stressed me out and irritated me. i felt like thomas was a background character, and i didn’t like that. then at the end, i thought audrey rose was gonna like tell thomas everything and completely come clean and truly tell him everything in her heart, but she didn’t. thomas did, he always does, but audrey rose just went with it and didn’t really truly voice her feelings. in the author’s note kerri maniscalco did say that she intentionally made audrey rose do some uncharacteristic things to show she was getting too into her character/act, but i just didn’t really like that.
jenny_readss's review against another edition
Just not for me. I no longer really read YA so while it's fine, I'm going to cut my losses in advance
joanix's review against another edition
2.5
If this book is even receiving any stars it’s because Thomas Cresswell is in it, the aesthetics are nice, the wirting style is okay.
If it weren’t for these, I would have given this book 0⭐️
I officially hate Audrey Rose. She was stupid, egotistical, hypocritical, deceitful, spoiled, and many more bad adjectives.
She does not deserve Thomas Cresswell. He’s never been anything but supportive, kind, and loving towards her and she just takes him for granted. She’s never done anything for him besides taking that knife. She’s never fought for his love, she rarely compliments him, she lied to him, cheated on him,…
Honestly, I feel more sympathy for the killer than for Audrey Rose on this one. I’ve never hated a main character before, but AR managed to be the first.
Being a strong, independent woman doesn’t mean you are allowed to play with other’s feelings. Especially the feelings of someone who has done nothing but be there for you in your darkest moments. It’s beyond me how she made the deal with the ringmaster and didn’t tell Thomas right away. If I met a random guy on a ship after a murder and he wanted to strike a bargain with me and told I couldn’t tell my best friend/lover, telling him would be the first thing I would do. And I would tell him about every encounter. Fine, she was interested in magic tricks. But does that replace the strong bond with someone you love? Mephiswhatever wasn’t even interesting. Or charming. He was just suspect and annoying. How can you ruin something real for someone you met 2 days ago?!
Tbh, I’m even annoyed at Thomas. He should have reacted differently. Get mad at her, not forgive her like that. She cheated on him, lied to him. If it was the other way around, Thomas would be crucified!!!!!!!!!! But because it’s a “strong independent woman” it’s perfectly okay to lie, cheat, and hurt your best friend.
Please…
This book was ridiculous, I feel like DNFing this series just because I don’t want to read anything else AR says. I will read other stuff until I forget about this book and, maybe someday, if I do forget it, I’ll read the final one.
If it weren’t for these, I would have given this book 0⭐️
I officially hate Audrey Rose. She was stupid, egotistical, hypocritical, deceitful, spoiled, and many more bad adjectives.
She does not deserve Thomas Cresswell. He’s never been anything but supportive, kind, and loving towards her and she just takes him for granted. She’s never done anything for him besides taking that knife. She’s never fought for his love, she rarely compliments him, she lied to him, cheated on him,…
Honestly, I feel more sympathy for the killer than for Audrey Rose on this one. I’ve never hated a main character before, but AR managed to be the first.
Being a strong, independent woman doesn’t mean you are allowed to play with other’s feelings. Especially the feelings of someone who has done nothing but be there for you in your darkest moments. It’s beyond me how she made the deal with the ringmaster and didn’t tell Thomas right away. If I met a random guy on a ship after a murder and he wanted to strike a bargain with me and told I couldn’t tell my best friend/lover, telling him would be the first thing I would do. And I would tell him about every encounter. Fine, she was interested in magic tricks. But does that replace the strong bond with someone you love? Mephiswhatever wasn’t even interesting. Or charming. He was just suspect and annoying. How can you ruin something real for someone you met 2 days ago?!
Tbh, I’m even annoyed at Thomas. He should have reacted differently. Get mad at her, not forgive her like that. She cheated on him, lied to him. If it was the other way around, Thomas would be crucified!!!!!!!!!! But because it’s a “strong independent woman” it’s perfectly okay to lie, cheat, and hurt your best friend.
Please…
This book was ridiculous, I feel like DNFing this series just because I don’t want to read anything else AR says. I will read other stuff until I forget about this book and, maybe someday, if I do forget it, I’ll read the final one.
cheyennegabrielle's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
bookedbyruqs's review
4.0
4.5 / 5
It is such a fun roller coaster of emotions and suspense, and I honestly think Kerri could write a dozen books following the adventures of Audrey and Thomas, and I would happily read each and every one of them.
Escaping from Houdini is truly mesmerizing. I love the topic of magic performances and how it all takes place on a cruise. As much as I love following Thomas and Audrey Rose breaking curfews and sneaking out on secret adventures, I do love the change in this book with Thomas having a competitor. It’s interesting how Thomas is still considered a “friend” after all of those stolen moments. I like the pictures before each chapter, especially the late 19th century circus performers because it gives readers an idea of what’s to come and their costumes are really out there! This book is a must read and the series shouldn’t be missed. I highly recommend everyone to read it!
The mystery really kept me on the edge of my seat. It seemed that unlike the other murder that this one was random and that is probably the scariest part. It was so damn intriguing to see how the murders all came together and the characters reactions.
Plot:
Escaping from Houdini picks up where Hunting Prince Dracula left off, with Audrey Rose, Thomas and Doctor Wadsworth already on a luxurious cruiser en route to America. Shortly after the ship sets sail, bodies start turning up, twisted and displayed in the middle of the Moonlight Carnival shows. No one saw anything, and its only the first of a string of horrific murders. With dozens of masked performers lurking around, each and every one could be a killer. On top of that, back in England, Audrey Rose’s cousin Liza goes missing. Could everything be connected? And more importantly, can Audrey Rose and Thomas solve the mystery before the ship reaches America and the murderer disappears for good? Audrey Rose and Thomas waste no time and jump into the investigation.
The show must go on, and what a show it is! Illusionists, magicians, fortune tellers, knife throwers, card readers, and the great Houdini are there to ensnare the audience in their evening shows. Wanting to investigate the carnival crew, Audrey Rose struck a bargain with the dashing and mysterious ringleader Mephistopheles. A bargain that could potentially turn into a scandal costing her her reputation and her relationship with Thomas.
Setting:
The setting in this book is fantastic; it is so delightful and intriguing. Nothing is ever quite what it seems to be on the ship, and there’s a lot of world-building for the circus and its performers that lends to an immersive, captivating arena for the murders. This is my fav setting of the series so far. I really loved the whole ‘murder on the orient express’ vibes of this story, just on a passenger liner rather than a train. Its exciting and mysterious
I really loved the carnival/magic/illusions vibe of this book. I also liked the fact that I really couldn't tell who the murderer was until the end. There were clues and leads that were pointing to too many characters at the same time, but I liked it because it wasn’t predictable.
Kerri Maniscalco knows how to use description. She weaves it so damn well that it makes you feel as if you’re aboard the ship or even Audrey Rose. It is such a unique experience. However, each of Kerri’s books has managed to take me to her unique historical settings.
Characters:
Audrey Rose: was just as determined and passionate as I could remember, fighting for her independence and place in the world controlled by men, and keeping a cool exterior in the face of fire. She was not perfect and made some mistakes, but realized that and was intent on making everything right the best she could.
On the one hand, her deceit is heartbreaking as we see the pain it causes her loved ones, but on the other, Audrey proves herself as a bright young woman who has come to recognize that she has to figure things out for herself and to see if she’s settling, or truly on the path she needs to be on. That said, I think readers everywhere will be pleased with the end of her curious emotional journey.
Thomas: he has developed into this delightfully kind creature when it comes to his love for Audrey, but his humor and snark are still fully present, as is his brilliant wit. Thomas is truly one of my favorite YA love interests of all time, because not only is he funny, charming, and cute—he’s also incredibly respectful and in awe of Audrey’s talents, and even when it breaks his heart, he’s fully prepared to do whatever it takes to ensure that she feels free to make the choices she needs to make. I just love him so, so much.
Finally, our newest prominent player Mephistopheles: the ring-leader of the traveling show. I know that there have been some mixed feelings about him from other reviewers, but I have to say that, despite some of the really twisted things he does, I thought he was a phenomenal addition to the story. He’s got this moral greyness to him that you can never quite determine the shade of, and his motives are rarely, if ever, clear.
Mephistopheles: while many people seem to really hate him for even daring to interfere with Audrey Rose and accuse him of being a rip-off of Thomas or something, I found his character to be quite refreshing and intriguing. He kept me constantly on the edge of my seat as I was never sure where his true intentions lay, and how many of the things he was saying were actually the truth. Despite myself, I fell for his charm and even started slightly shipping him and Audrey Rose.
I have a feeling this was not the last we saw of him (as was partly hinted at the end) and I hope he will appear in the last book.
I liked the sharp tongues exchanges between Audrey and Mephistopheles. I liked the mystery to Mephistopheles’ background because he’s always wearing a mask. I liked the friction between Thomas, Audrey Rose, and Mephistopheles and their endless witticism/sarcasm/banter/charm/well-timed quips. I can’t tell Mephistopheles’ intentions toward Audrey Rose but the air of mystery makes the read interesting.
I still adore Mrs. Harvey. She is just the absolute BEST with her “nightcaps” and look-the-other way style of chaperoning.
I do wish houdini played a larger part in the plot, but i understand why he didn’t.
Audrey + Thomas Relationship:
Just the same as in the past two installments, my favorite parts are each and every moment in which Audrey and Thomas are alone, whether they’re swapping flirty banter, admiring one another’s intellect, sneaking steamy moments in hidden corners, or confessing sweet, tender emotions and desires. That said, this installment relies less on relationship building and more on suspense, intrigue, and a bit of con work.
I am really excited to read the last book of this series and to see how Audrey Rose and Thomas will get their happy ending (because they HAVE to get their happy ending). I also enjoy the sexual tension that is slowly building between them and I hope that we can have more than a few stolen kisses in the next book, although I realize it is not probable with the whole Victorian setting and very strict social conventions
I find the romance between Thomas and Audrey Rose intoxicating because of their limited time, privacy, and secrecy. But on top of that, THE ROMANCE. I swear it just gets better as the books go on. Audrey Rose and Thomas's love is beautiful and I love them with my whole soul. Their relationship is built on such a strong foundation of respect and trust, that when one of them does something strange, the other trusts that they know what their doing. And then this quote:
“If you wish to go, I’ll never make you stay. I might not do and say the proper thing all the time, but I do know that I love you enough to set you free.”
I am on my freaking KNEES for this man.
It is such a fun roller coaster of emotions and suspense, and I honestly think Kerri could write a dozen books following the adventures of Audrey and Thomas, and I would happily read each and every one of them.
Escaping from Houdini is truly mesmerizing. I love the topic of magic performances and how it all takes place on a cruise. As much as I love following Thomas and Audrey Rose breaking curfews and sneaking out on secret adventures, I do love the change in this book with Thomas having a competitor. It’s interesting how Thomas is still considered a “friend” after all of those stolen moments. I like the pictures before each chapter, especially the late 19th century circus performers because it gives readers an idea of what’s to come and their costumes are really out there! This book is a must read and the series shouldn’t be missed. I highly recommend everyone to read it!
The mystery really kept me on the edge of my seat. It seemed that unlike the other murder that this one was random and that is probably the scariest part. It was so damn intriguing to see how the murders all came together and the characters reactions.
Plot:
Escaping from Houdini picks up where Hunting Prince Dracula left off, with Audrey Rose, Thomas and Doctor Wadsworth already on a luxurious cruiser en route to America. Shortly after the ship sets sail, bodies start turning up, twisted and displayed in the middle of the Moonlight Carnival shows. No one saw anything, and its only the first of a string of horrific murders. With dozens of masked performers lurking around, each and every one could be a killer. On top of that, back in England, Audrey Rose’s cousin Liza goes missing. Could everything be connected? And more importantly, can Audrey Rose and Thomas solve the mystery before the ship reaches America and the murderer disappears for good? Audrey Rose and Thomas waste no time and jump into the investigation.
The show must go on, and what a show it is! Illusionists, magicians, fortune tellers, knife throwers, card readers, and the great Houdini are there to ensnare the audience in their evening shows. Wanting to investigate the carnival crew, Audrey Rose struck a bargain with the dashing and mysterious ringleader Mephistopheles. A bargain that could potentially turn into a scandal costing her her reputation and her relationship with Thomas.
Setting:
The setting in this book is fantastic; it is so delightful and intriguing. Nothing is ever quite what it seems to be on the ship, and there’s a lot of world-building for the circus and its performers that lends to an immersive, captivating arena for the murders. This is my fav setting of the series so far. I really loved the whole ‘murder on the orient express’ vibes of this story, just on a passenger liner rather than a train. Its exciting and mysterious
I really loved the carnival/magic/illusions vibe of this book. I also liked the fact that I really couldn't tell who the murderer was until the end. There were clues and leads that were pointing to too many characters at the same time, but I liked it because it wasn’t predictable.
Kerri Maniscalco knows how to use description. She weaves it so damn well that it makes you feel as if you’re aboard the ship or even Audrey Rose. It is such a unique experience. However, each of Kerri’s books has managed to take me to her unique historical settings.
Characters:
Audrey Rose: was just as determined and passionate as I could remember, fighting for her independence and place in the world controlled by men, and keeping a cool exterior in the face of fire. She was not perfect and made some mistakes, but realized that and was intent on making everything right the best she could.
On the one hand, her deceit is heartbreaking as we see the pain it causes her loved ones, but on the other, Audrey proves herself as a bright young woman who has come to recognize that she has to figure things out for herself and to see if she’s settling, or truly on the path she needs to be on. That said, I think readers everywhere will be pleased with the end of her curious emotional journey.
Thomas: he has developed into this delightfully kind creature when it comes to his love for Audrey, but his humor and snark are still fully present, as is his brilliant wit. Thomas is truly one of my favorite YA love interests of all time, because not only is he funny, charming, and cute—he’s also incredibly respectful and in awe of Audrey’s talents, and even when it breaks his heart, he’s fully prepared to do whatever it takes to ensure that she feels free to make the choices she needs to make. I just love him so, so much.
Finally, our newest prominent player Mephistopheles: the ring-leader of the traveling show. I know that there have been some mixed feelings about him from other reviewers, but I have to say that, despite some of the really twisted things he does, I thought he was a phenomenal addition to the story. He’s got this moral greyness to him that you can never quite determine the shade of, and his motives are rarely, if ever, clear.
Mephistopheles: while many people seem to really hate him for even daring to interfere with Audrey Rose and accuse him of being a rip-off of Thomas or something, I found his character to be quite refreshing and intriguing. He kept me constantly on the edge of my seat as I was never sure where his true intentions lay, and how many of the things he was saying were actually the truth. Despite myself, I fell for his charm and even started slightly shipping him and Audrey Rose.
I have a feeling this was not the last we saw of him (as was partly hinted at the end) and I hope he will appear in the last book.
I liked the sharp tongues exchanges between Audrey and Mephistopheles. I liked the mystery to Mephistopheles’ background because he’s always wearing a mask. I liked the friction between Thomas, Audrey Rose, and Mephistopheles and their endless witticism/sarcasm/banter/charm/well-timed quips. I can’t tell Mephistopheles’ intentions toward Audrey Rose but the air of mystery makes the read interesting.
I still adore Mrs. Harvey. She is just the absolute BEST with her “nightcaps” and look-the-other way style of chaperoning.
I do wish houdini played a larger part in the plot, but i understand why he didn’t.
Audrey + Thomas Relationship:
Just the same as in the past two installments, my favorite parts are each and every moment in which Audrey and Thomas are alone, whether they’re swapping flirty banter, admiring one another’s intellect, sneaking steamy moments in hidden corners, or confessing sweet, tender emotions and desires. That said, this installment relies less on relationship building and more on suspense, intrigue, and a bit of con work.
I am really excited to read the last book of this series and to see how Audrey Rose and Thomas will get their happy ending (because they HAVE to get their happy ending). I also enjoy the sexual tension that is slowly building between them and I hope that we can have more than a few stolen kisses in the next book, although I realize it is not probable with the whole Victorian setting and very strict social conventions
I find the romance between Thomas and Audrey Rose intoxicating because of their limited time, privacy, and secrecy. But on top of that, THE ROMANCE. I swear it just gets better as the books go on. Audrey Rose and Thomas's love is beautiful and I love them with my whole soul. Their relationship is built on such a strong foundation of respect and trust, that when one of them does something strange, the other trusts that they know what their doing. And then this quote:
“If you wish to go, I’ll never make you stay. I might not do and say the proper thing all the time, but I do know that I love you enough to set you free.”
I am on my freaking KNEES for this man.
laurenjodi's review against another edition
3.0
Escaping from Houdini
3 Stars
Audrey Rose Wadsworth accompanies her uncle Jonathan and his young apprentice Thomas Cresswell aboard the RMS Etruria bound for New York City. Expecting to enjoy a cruise in the lap of luxury, Audrey Rose and the rest of the passengers are horrified when a young woman is stabbed during a performance of the Moonlight Carnival. Soon the bodies begin piling up and Audrey Rose has her hands full infiltrating the carnival to unmask a killer.
An intriguing mystery set against the backdrop of an ocean liner and amongst a mysteries troupe of circus performers. The inclusion of the Tarot cards in the murders is compelling and adds another layer of tension to the plot.
That said, Audrey Rose's actions in this installment are very problematic. Her interactions with the enigmatic Mephistopheles undermine the development of her romance with Thomas, and do not present her in a good light at all. Hopefully, she has learned her lesson about playing fast and loose with someone's affections.
Overall, not a bad read and Nicola Barber's narration of the audiobook is very good.
3 Stars
Audrey Rose Wadsworth accompanies her uncle Jonathan and his young apprentice Thomas Cresswell aboard the RMS Etruria bound for New York City. Expecting to enjoy a cruise in the lap of luxury, Audrey Rose and the rest of the passengers are horrified when a young woman is stabbed during a performance of the Moonlight Carnival. Soon the bodies begin piling up and Audrey Rose has her hands full infiltrating the carnival to unmask a killer.
An intriguing mystery set against the backdrop of an ocean liner and amongst a mysteries troupe of circus performers. The inclusion of the Tarot cards in the murders is compelling and adds another layer of tension to the plot.
That said, Audrey Rose's actions in this installment are very problematic. Her interactions with the enigmatic Mephistopheles undermine the development of her romance with Thomas, and do not present her in a good light at all. Hopefully, she has learned her lesson about playing fast and loose with someone's affections.
Overall, not a bad read and Nicola Barber's narration of the audiobook is very good.
rina_klsn's review against another edition
5.0
So I did a reading Marathon where I read all books from the series, and to have every book fresh in my memory. (Which I highly recommend)
Escaping from Houdini started really cool and mystrious and I was hooked from the first page on. Like on the first page, they already talk about a wedding and I was here for it.
If you read all the books you get to know the characters and I love how they develop in the series, but this was even better.
It happen sometimes that the middle of a book can be boring, but not this one. It happens way too much to get bored.
And can we talk about that dramatic finale?! Especially the last pages! I nearly cried.
I highly recommend this book! Read it!
P.S. The Writing is awesome, but a bit difficult. I am from Germany and I would say my English is really good, but some words or phrases I didn't understand and need to look up. But it's worth it!
Escaping from Houdini started really cool and mystrious and I was hooked from the first page on. Like on the first page, they already talk about a wedding and I was here for it.
If you read all the books you get to know the characters and I love how they develop in the series, but this was even better.
It happen sometimes that the middle of a book can be boring, but not this one. It happens way too much to get bored.
And can we talk about that dramatic finale?! Especially the last pages! I nearly cried.
I highly recommend this book! Read it!
P.S. The Writing is awesome, but a bit difficult. I am from Germany and I would say my English is really good, but some words or phrases I didn't understand and need to look up. But it's worth it!
lexireed's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
dark
hopeful
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0