Plot Summary

Church of Marvels

Leslie Parry
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Church of Marvels

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2015

Book Brief

Leslie Parry

Church of Marvels

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2015
Book Details
Pages

308

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New York City • 1890s

Publication Year

2015

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Set in 1895 New York City, Church of Marvels intertwines the lives of Alphie, who wakes up in an asylum, Sylvan, who rescues an abandoned baby, and Odile, who searches for her missing sister Belle after their circus burns down. Alongside these journeys, the characters confront personal traumas and strive to rebuild their fractured lives in the gritty urban landscape. The book includes themes of abuse and discrimination.

Mysterious

Dark

Emotional

Gritty

Nostalgic

Reviews & Readership

3.9

12,397 ratings

67%

Loved it

24%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Leslie Parry's Church of Marvels is lauded for its intricate storytelling, atmospheric setting, and richly crafted characters. Reviews highlight its evocative depiction of 1895 New York. However, some critique its complex plot as occasionally stilted and hard to follow. A blend of dark beauty and poignant humanity, it’s recommended for lovers of historical fiction.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Church of Marvels?

Church of Marvels by Leslie Parry captivates readers who enjoy intricate historical mysteries interwoven with rich, atmospheric detail. Fans of Erin Morgenstern's The Night Circus and Sarah Waters' Fingersmith will appreciate Parry's depiction of 1895 New York and its colorful, diverse characters. Ideal for those who relish gothic tales and immersive world-building.

3.9

12,397 ratings

67%

Loved it

24%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

308

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New York City • 1890s

Publication Year

2015

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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