Menagerie by Rachel Vincent

Menagerie by Rachel Vincent
ISBN: 9780778316053
Published by MIRA on May 27, 2022
Genres: Contemporary, Paranormal
Pages: 429
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From New York Times bestselling author Rachel Vincent comes a richly imagined, provocative new series set in the dark mythology of the Menagerie

When Delilah Marlow visits a famous traveling carnival, Metzger's Menagerie, she is an ordinary woman in a not-quite-ordinary world. But under the macabre circus black-top, she discovers a fierce, sharp-clawed creature lurking just beneath her human veneer. Captured and put on exhibition, Delilah in her black swan burlesque costume is stripped of her worldly possessions, including her own name, as she's forced to "perform" in town after town.

But there is breathtaking beauty behind the seamy and grotesque reality of the carnival. Gallagher, her handler, is as kind as he is cryptic and strong. The other "attractions"mermaids, minotaurs, gryphons and kelpiesare strange, yes, but they share a bond forged by the brutal realities of captivity. And as Delilah struggles for her freedom, and for her fellow menagerie, she'll discover a strength and a purpose she never knew existed.

Renowned author Rachel Vincent weaves an intoxicating blend of carnival magic and startling humanity in this intricately woven and powerful tale.

"Blood Bound offers a little something for everyone: a convincing magical system for urban fantasy fans; for romance readers, a love that time and distance can't break; and a twist-and-turn plot for mystery buffs. Readers looking for a light and fluffy ride should go elsewhere."

Shelf Awareness

I don’t often re-read books, as usually the change in my age and circumstances, and the book no longer being new and surprising, makes it a less enjoyable read the second time around. This was not so for Menagerie. Even knowing the characters and remembering most of the plot, this re-read of it was engaging, emotionally moving, and entertaining. And I bought Spectacle right away, because I need to continue on this incredible story!

Original review: 

My love for The Menagerie runs deep. So deep that when I realized (after reading) it’s the first in a series, I was thrilled. I need more!

It’s urban fantasy, set in contemporary America but with the open existence of cryptids- mythological creatures of all kinds. As the story starts they are devoid of any civil rights, viewed as dangerous sub-humans that can’t be trusted. The world building is done gradually, subtly, in ways that don’t detract at all from the marvelous pacing of the main story. And by the end, there were still questions left unanswered, in the primary story as well as the world building backstory.

This book is very driven by the plight of the main character, who uses her anger at injustice as fuel, beyond the point of reason. That sounds very summer-blockbuster-movie-character-shallow, but Rachel Vincent makes it work in a compelling way. I never felt connected to Delilah, but I definitely was rooting for her. She’s a wonderful example of a truly strong female character, and a great role model. And the entire Gallagher story made me cheer.

I highly recommend this one to anyone who enjoys mythology, even if you’re not typically an urban fantasy fan. Also to anyone who wants a good female main character, anyone who feels strongly about justice and morality, and those who like a story that ends on hope.

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