A new novel by the author of “The Doll Workshop.” A atmospheric Victorian story with references to classic works.
In 1866, a circus arrives in a seaside English village—Jasper Jupiter’s “House of Marvels.” For the local girl Nell, who earns her living by picking flowers and has birthmarks all over her body, the event is a real shock.
Her own father sells Nell to Jasper so she can become another circus performer—the so-called “leopard girl.” But the greatest betrayal brings both fame and friendship with Jasper’s brother Toby into her life. Toby helps her uncover her true talents.
Is the circus the best thing that ever happened to Nell? But is taking part in a show of “human oddities” a worthy fate? How much pain is hidden behind bright posters?