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.
A magical and mysterious historical thriller, perfect for fans of The Night Circus and Water for Elephants.
And it was. In 1905 in Iowa, famous illusionist The Amazing Arden finds herself accused of her husband's murder. Given that Arden is the prime suspect, she's faced with the task of convincing policeman Virgil Holt that she's innocent. But with her reputation for clever trickery behind her, and her attempt at fleeing, it's a difficult task indeed, though soon Arden begins to reveal more about herself that makes Virgil once again question whether to let her go.
The Magician's Lie is utterly captivating. It's described as a historical thriller, but I found it to be less thriller, more mystery with drama and a lot of intrigue. Perhaps a thriller in some ways, but not typically so; there's no big unexpected twist found in typical thrillers, and it focuses more on the character. However, I loved that. It's such a beautifully written tale that kept me hooked from the very first page. The novel revels a lot about the world of illusionists back in that time, and that alone made me keep reading. When Arden reveals all about her life, from her childhood to her life as a renowned performer, I was swept away in the intrigue.
The Magician's Lie is a fast-paced, beautiful debut, and I can't wait to read more from Greer Macallister in future.
Rating: 5/5
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