The First Bright Thing by J.R. Dawson

Author: J.R. Dawson
Published: June 13th, 2023
Publisher: Tor Books
Rating: 3/5

Goodreads synopsis

If you knew how dark tomorrow would be, what would you do with today?

Ringmaster — Rin, to those who know her best — can jump to different moments in time as easily as her wife, Odette, soars from bar to bar on the trapeze. And the circus they lead is a rare home and safe haven for magical misfits and outcasts, known as Sparks.

With the world still reeling from World War I, Rin and her troupe — the Circus of the Fantasticals — travel the midwest, offering a single night of enchantment and respite to all who step into their Big Top.

But threats come at Rin from all sides. The future holds an impending war that the Sparks can see barrelling toward their show and everyone in it. And Rin’s past creeps closer every day, a malevolent shadow she can’t fully escape.

It takes the form of another circus, with tents as black as midnight and a ringmaster who rules over his troupe with a dangerous power. Rin’s circus has something he wants, and he won’t stop until it’s his.

My thoughts

A Promising Start that Falls Short

I was initially filled with anticipation when I picked up this book, especially since it came highly recommended for fans of “The Night Circus.” At first, I could sense the familiar vibe that drew me into its pages, with its hints of enchantment and mystery. The time travel elements and the infusion of magical realism were precisely what I adore in my stories. However, as I delved deeper, my experience took an unexpected turn.
As I continued reading, my enthusiasm gradually waned, and I found myself contemplating whether to set the book aside unfinished. Yet, I persevered, pushing through despite the growing desire to reach the end. The main issue I encountered was my indifference toward the characters. Despite their potential, they failed to capture my attention or evoke any emotional investment. Without that connection, it became increasingly challenging to fully immerse myself in their journeys.

Another aspect that hindered my enjoyment was the pacing. While some may appreciate a leisurely narrative, I personally found it too sluggish for my taste. The slow momentum made it difficult to sustain my engagement, and I yearned for a swifter progression that would maintain my excitement and propel the plot forward.

Nevertheless, it is important to note that the book’s saving grace lies in its incorporation of time travel and magical realism. These elements injected a captivating layer of intrigue and wonder, showcasing the author’s skill in crafting imaginative worlds. It is through these elements that the book manages to salvage some of its allure and keep readers curious about the possibilities within its pages.

In summary, this book had the potential to be a captivating read, reminiscent of “The Night Circus,” but unfortunately fell short of my expectations. The lack of compelling characters and the sluggish pacing detracted from what could have been a truly enchanting experience. However, fans of time travel and magical realism may still find elements to appreciate within its pages.