HIGH-WIRE HEARTBREAK by ANNA SCHMIDT

Publication dare 1/1/22

HIGH-WIRE HEARTBREAK by ANNA SCHMIDT is a dual timeline novel taking place in Sarasota Florida at circus magnate, John Ringling’s, winter estate, in both time periods. I found this novel to be a most delightful read, with a well formed plot, unforgettable characters and a subtle Christian message. It is a story of hard times and new beginnings.

When famous author, Chloe Whitfield, comes to the beautiful old Ringling estate, which is now a museum, she meets Dr Ian Flanner who is in charge of the place and its renovation. He, together with others who work at the museum, is very knowledgable about its  history and architecture. Chloe is there to get inspiration for her next historical thriller for which the intriguing Ca D’Zan (House of John) will provide the setting. As she looks into the history, she is fascinated by the story of Lucinda Conroy, the famous aerialist who she believes is her great grandmother.

Running parallel to Chloe’s story, and eventually tying into it, is Lucinda Conroy and Bernardo Russi’s story which starts in 1936 with Lucinda performing a triple back somersault with her partner Bernardo at John Ringling’s seventieth birthday party. Lucy and Nardo’s  story is both heart wrenching and heartwarming.

This is a refreshingly different and most enjoyable read and one I cannot recommend highly enough. 

I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Barbour Publishing The opinions in this review are completely my own.