In a city covered in ice and ruin, a group of magicians face off in a daring game of 
magical feats to find the next headliner of the Conquering Circus, only to find themselves under the threat of an unseen danger striking behind the scenes.
As each act becomes more and more risky and the number of missing magicians piles up, three are forced to reckon with their secrets before the darkness comes for them next.
The Star: Kallia, a powerful showgirl out to prove she’s the best no matter the cost
The Master: Jack, the enigmatic keeper of the club, and more than one lie told
The Magician: Demarco, the brooding judge with a dark past he can no longer hide
Where Dreams Descend is the startling and romantic first book in Janella Angeles’ debut Kingdom of Cards fantasy duology where magic is both celebrated and feared, and no heart is left unscathed.
Magical competitions, mysterious disappearances, lies, secrets, and a gorgeous cover – how could you not want to read this? The strong Phantom of the Opera vibes just made it that much more irresistible.
Such an atmospheric novel – a cold, enigmatic city whose residents hide secrets of its past, long-neglected, decaying buildings within it, and a dark forest at its gates. Powerful magicians exist in this world where some magic isn’t completely understood. Let’s just say I’ll never look at mirrors in quite the same way again.
Kallia, Jack, and Demarco are wonderfully flawed and scarred in various ways, and I’m so glad the author gave each of their POVs. Kallia is a snarky, impulsive character who excels when the odds are against her, all while covering up the fear inside. Demarco is a tough shell to crack initially, but his backstory is tragic. Manipulative Jack still remains the biggest mystery, and I’m so anxious to learn more about him in the sequel. I have to give a shout out to Aaros for his wit and undying loyalty to Kallia. He’s undoubtedly one of the best supporting characters I’ve come across.
Imagery and creativity of the illusions are outstanding – a screenplay of this book would be a visual feast. I could have done without some of the romantic drama (I’m in the minority on that aspect, I know), but this ends with a glorious cliffhanger. The next book can’t come soon enough.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Books and Such 
This sounds very intriguing. Like you, I would prefer not to have the romantic aspect, but the rest sounds really good.
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I enjoyed the competition and magical system more than anything, plus the mystery surrounding Jack is really intriguing. I’ll absolutely continue with the series – just maybe skim over the romance parts, lol.
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There is a lot to like about this book. I love the preview.
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Sounds like a good read:]
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A big thumbs up from me, Denise – excited for the next book!
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Whenever I read a book, I’m always visualizing what the scene looks like, Jacqui, but this novel did a magnificent job. A screenplay of this would be gorgeous.
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I keep seeing this book. It sounds amazing with interesting world and characters. Great review!
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You should absolutely add it to your TBR, Yesha – I think you’d really enjoy it.
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Reading your review of this book gave me goosebumps. Definitely sounds like a delightful read. ❤️
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If you’re a Phantom of the Opera fan (which is really the only musical I enjoy), you’d love this book, Tessa.
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Great review! I cannot wait for this one!
(www.evelynreads.com)
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Now I can’t wait for the sequel, Evelyn.
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Magic that isn’t entirely under control is always very creepy, Teri. Thanks for this review.
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Creepy is right, Robbie – there are things that happen in this book no one can exactly explain. Have a great weekend!
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You too, Teri.
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Oooh this seems very intriguing! And I am all for the romance but…you know this LOL
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I’m surprised you didn’t get an ARC of this one, Sophie – you’d love it!
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Sounds like an interesting read. I’m with you on the romantic drama though, it can definitely take a back seat in my dark fiction novels!!
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I can take a little romance if it’s woven into the story, just not the primary focus. It’s definitely present here, but with everything else going on, I didn’t mind it so much.
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“Wonderfully flawed and scarred” are my favorite characters. Thanks for sharing this, Teri.
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Flawed and scarred are absolutely themes in this book, Staci – two characteristics that make for such interesting characters.
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