A YA Circus Fantasy Adventure (A Dream Travelers Series

***I received the ARC eBook from the author in exchange for an honest review***

Beautiful, mesmerising and magical – all words to describe the Vagabond Circus and this book! Originally I was a little worried because it didn’t have my favourite start (I felt disconnected from the characters that I also had a hard time growing to like even though I could understand their standpoint) but by the end I was dying for more. The damn kindle lied saying I had 10% left but it wasn't technically part of the story (it was actually an awesome-ly teasing sneak peek from the sequel plus other books). So it's a good thing that I have a lot more to look forward to from Sarah!

Suspended revolves around a group of Dream Travelers who are part of the thrilling Vagabond circus. This means that they’ve come from far and wide with different histories and different personalities that definitely stand out from the pages – they were unique. Finley especially, the newest (and somewhat unwelcome) edition was clouded in mystery and everything about him drew you in. There were so many hints along the way about his motivations that I’m dying to re-read it just to have those ‘aha!’ moments. Also after that ending I’m not ready to move on… I’ll be sitting here staring at the wonderful cover of Paralyzed until its release.

I can’t wait to see more interactions between Finley and Zuma. I can’t wait to find out more about the villain that has already sent shivers down my spine. I can’t wait for the emotional scenes bound to make my heart hurt. Basically I can’t wait for more in this fantastic series!

Posted on: http://enchantedbyya.blogspot.co.uk/

An amazingly magical and captivating book that propels you into another of Sarah Noffke's mesmerizing Dream Traveler worlds. In the Vagabond Circus, Dave Raydon gathers orphans and the lost, bringing Dream Travels together, giving them purpose and a sense of belonging. His aim is to bring magic and joy back into ordinary lives, through the gifts and talents of his Dream Traveller circus. Things were running smoothly but everything start to unwind when a new talent is introduced into the mix.
This book captures you from the start, taking you on a mesmerizing journey of intrigue, deception, mystery and romance.
Finley is a complex character with many hidden facets that are slowly revealed throughout the book. He is secretive, cocky and hides behind brash remarks. Zuma is a strong female character, she is passionate about the circus but little else touches her, until she met Finley. The love/hate chemistry between Zuma and Finley is captivating and their developing and ever changing relationship draws you in, you become so embroiled in these characters that you actually hurt when they hurt. Sarah's writing makes you feel their connection and emotions; you experience their mistrust, longing, hope and anxieties. All the characters in this book are appealing and have some depth to them; from Dave's persuasive, open personality to grumpy Sunshine's empathic thoughts, they all add layers to the circuses world. The plot is intriguing, with twists and surprises along the way. It draws you in and keeps you reading and in the end, leaves you dying to get the next book. This is an amazing story with great writing, intriguing plot and well-developed characters. As a side note, having heard a sample of the audiobook due out later this year, I can not wait to hear it. The narrators breathy voice fits the circus perfectly and will bring Sarah's amazing characters to life

Suspended is the first book in the Vagabond Circus series by American author, Sarah Noffke. Finley joins the circus. But not just any circus. This is the Vagabond Circus, where cast and crew are endowed with special talents. They are all Dream Travelers: there are no Middlings in this circus.

Ringmaster Dr Dave Raydon says that “The Vagabond Circus runs for two reasons and only two reasons: first and foremost to give the lost and lonely Dream Travelers a place to be great. And secondly, to show the nonbelievers that there’s still magic in the world”. The Vagabond Circus puts on an amazing show, but Dave feels something is missing.

He upsets his Creative Director Titus when he takes in the untried teenager without any consultation. The Circus is already under financial pressure and can afford no risks. But it soon turns out that Dave’s conviction that Finley’s abilities will save the Vagabond Circus is vindicated. Finley’s performance astounds them all.

But Finley is on a mission, something he isn’t sharing with the other performers, not even his performance partner, the beautiful and charismatic Zuma. And he worries that his attraction to Zuma will distract him from his important task.

Noffke builds an interesting fantasy world and lays the groundwork for further books in the series. Her characters are appealing and her plot is creative with enough twists to keep the reader engrossed. The Kindle book also includes the first chapter of the second book in the series, Paralyzed, as well as chapters from Noffke’s other works. An enchanting read that will appeal to lovers of fantasy.
With thanks to TheReadingRoom and the author for this ecopy to read and review.

The Vagabond Circus is run by Dream Travellers, a band of magical people that want to give the audience back their belief in magic again. The circus is run by ex-psychologist, Dr Dave Raydon, who has his own mental health problems, overcomes them to put on the greatest show on earth. Using each Dream Traveller’s abilities Dr Raydon places them in their ideal role for the show. After Finley joins the team, it starts a chain reaction which involves love, mystery and murder.
Although the circus is run by a big team of people, the author introduces us to just a handful. Zuma, Jack, Jasmine and Finley are the acrobatics, the stars in the circus, working close together they each need to trust other, but with Finley keeping secrets trust is hard to give. Titus is the creative director, working closely with Dr Raydon, the circus is his life. One of my favourite characters was Sunshine, an empath, who had an air of sadness around her, she was not afraid to speak her mind.
The more you read this story the more you know about the character’s lives except Finley, just like his character, his life story and mission is a mystery, it is not till the end of the book do we actually find out why he is at the circus. This kept the story interested as throughout the author teased us with why he was there. The connection with Zuma and Finley and their love/hate relationship kept you guessing whether or not they could pull of the show.
Whilst reading the scenes of the show it reminded me of the Cirque du Soleil as they also have a magical feel to them.
With book 2 and 3 out, I can continue following the adventures of Finley

I enjoyed this story greatly and the ending really left me wanting to know what happens next. The ending line was filled with so much pain and longing and I really hope that Zuma can move past her loss and forgive Finley.

I did feel that some bits in the story dragged out a little bit and things that didn't need a ton of detail or to be explained were and the things that I wanted to be explained more were kind of glanced over. This is the first book in the story and it's the first book of the Authors that I have read so maybe these questions will be answered later.

The main question being what and who are dream travelers, where did they come from, why were they cursed? I want something more in depth than the "bad man" doesn't like them etc....and I did learn he was one of the original acts but the reasoning wasn't in depth enough for me.

I'm honestly still out on if I like Zuma or not she hasn't quite endeared herself to me but I do like Finley's character and Fanny's however Jake(?) I can't stand him at all. The death didn't strike as hard as I felt the Author was going for but all in all for being a first in a series I am intrigued enough to continue on to book two.

Sarah Noffke welcomes us back into her extraordinary world of Dream Travelers. If you're unfamiliar with Dream Travelers, they are people with additional abilities like telekinesis, clairvoyance, illusions, empath, teleportation, etc.

In her book Suspended, those Dream Travelers that find themselves outcasts or misfits can find a home at the Vagabond Circus. Performers use their abilities in lieu of optical illusion to put on amazing shows. When newcomer Finley arrives, his abilities could be exactly what's needed to revive the circus. Problem is, Finley is shrouded in mystery, he's obviously hiding something (or everything) from his past, and strange things are beginning to happen.

Just like the name of the book, as a reader, you are literally suspended throughout the book, never quite knowing which side of the spectrum some of the characters fall. Sarah Noffke is excellent at creating layers within her storylines, so that just when you think you have something figured out, everything changes. While a bit slow to get into on the beginning, as it sets up it first act, it reaches its full potential by the end. Overall, another mesmerizing read by this talented author.

An incredibly enchanting, fantastical, magical world! This is an amazing story where the opening lines will suck you in and hold you tight until the very end. Welcome to the Vagabond Circus! Where nothing is what it seems, yet everything is. The owner of Vagabond Circus has been recruiting Dream Travelers for it’s circus for many years. Dream Travelers are perfect for this as they have extra abilities that actually allow them to do the things in the circus that is usually all smoke and mirrors. Their purpose is to make people happy. Things aren’t going too well with the circus financially but the next big thing falls in their lap. Finley comes to join the circus but has ulterior motives for joining. Finley is an acrobat and is paired with Zuma for the new act. They both have a strange and strong connection with each other. However, there are rules at this circus and no relationships between crew members is one of them. This has been hard for many of the members of the circus...but the show must go on! You follow many of the characters in the circus...The Ringmaster, his assistant, other acrobats and performers. There are many things going on and the author does an insanely great job of keeping everything straight and keeping you right in the middle of it all. One night a tragedy occurs and Finley finds himself right in the middle of the chaos and giving away some of his deepest darkest secrets in the process. You never know what is real and who you can trust. I had many thoughts on the way the story was going to go but the twist at the end will leave you speechless.

“There are those who come to judge the circus and then there are those who come to experience it. The latter go home satisfied. The former go home full of scrutinizing accusations. Those who experience the circus, taking it in and allowing themselves to be awed, have a richness built into their lives afterwards, almost like they’ve gained an extra day to their existence. Those who observe seem to have lost a day. They’re the ones who tear down sandcastles. They’re the ones who say clouds are just clouds when they are irrefutably in the shape of unicorns.”

“Finley was a tornado, changing every second, beautiful and dangerous and unpredictable. But Zuma loved storms. Always had.”

“He stole her focus. He owned her attention just by existing. He did to Zuma what she did to the world.”

This an extraordinary story like none other that I have had the opportunity to read. Hats off and a huge round of applause for Sarah Noffke! The show must go on!

I loved this book! What an amazing world Sarah Noffke creates in this series. I am a tremendously huge fan of X-Men and I wish the Dream Travelers really existed. In fact, I desperately want to see the Vagabond Circus!
The characters are sweet and funny and will touch your heart. I love Finley and can't wait to see what happens to him next. Parts of this book made me laugh out loud and other parts made me teary. I think that's the perfect combination. I recommend this book to everyone and I can't wait to start the next book.

The circus world was mesmerizing. I wish there was a circus like that in real life! It was unique and entertaining. The characters were so good, and different and perplexing and I enjoyed reading about each one of them. It was so interesting learning about their characters and their unique powers.

I liked Dave from the beginning. He was the best ringmaster and I enjoyed reading about his character. He is the soul of the circus.

The chemistry between Finley and Zuma was out of this world! I seriously couldn't get enough of it. And Finley, oh Finley! He was so mysterious, and interesting and drop dead gorgeous! Dare I say it that he was almost as good as Aiden???? (shocking I know!!!!) It goes without saying that I didn't like Jack much, for obvious reasons!

The suspense was killing me all through the book and the revelations of what was actually going on were so intriguing.

Can't wait to see what happens next. ;)

I received an ARC copy of Sarah Noffke's Suspended in exchange for an honest review.
Author Sarah Noffke was a surprise for me. I discovered the Lucidites series not long after it was released and it remains one of my favourite YA trilogies. So I'll admit I was a little nervous, but also excited, to be starting a new trilogy in the same vein. While Suspended shares some elements with the Lucidites, such as dream travelling, it is a different book. The supernatural elements are woven seamlessly into the characters and the story. The mystery about the circus, it's occupants, and the newcomer Finley are evident from the start. As is Finley and Zuma's connection. I love that Sarah takes the time to develop the relationships between each of the characters, which is difficult to do with a whole cast from the circus, but it's done naturally and it's done well. The story unfolds slowly at first, then gathers speed. When I reached the last page I was disappointed -- I have to wait until next week when Paralyzed is released to find out what happens next...

Sarah Noffke has done it again. The Dream Traveler's world has expanded into the lives of an amazing circus act that strives to bring magic back into peoples' lives. The story surrounding the characters was mysterious, interesting, and dangerous, leaving me holding my breath before I turned the page. Each character was believable and endearing in their own way. I loved guessing what their dream traveler were going to be. It's always a fun surprise when they reveal what gifts they have! I can't wait to see what happens in book two.

And that cover is amazing! The colors and figures definitely capture the essence of "Suspended"

I enjoyed reading this book. It is a different type of fantasy book than I normally read, but I was not disappointed! A circus filled with misfits and rejects of the 'normal' world, accepts a new member, and their reality starts to turn upside-down.

The Dream Traveler's concept is intriguing and interesting, hooks ya and keeps you reading and caring for the various characters in the Vagabond Circus.

Well developed characters, and character interactions, good plot, and over all well written.

Now to the people who complained about the cliff hanger ending, didn't you notice that this is Book 1? That should give you a clue that the book is part of a series...

3.5 from me Unfortunately, this book is more than a serial. It is one of THOSE books that literally ends in the middle.I prefer books to either warn that it has NO ENDING, therefore you MUST get the next or not know what comes next. I prefer a book to at least finish scenes. And only then if I know ahead of time.
The above aside, I really enjoyed this story. I have really enjoyed the characters so far. I did enjoy reading up to some of the things that are happening and I assume will be happening soon. I really liked the way this author was able to take something weve all seen before (a group of misfits joined together by the circus) yet put a new twist on it.

Sarah Noffke has written a brilliant and exciting book ‘Suspended’ it gyre within Vagabond traveling circus. They are unlike any other circus, this one is magical and they aim to the skeptics, and their goal is to bring magic into their lives and that magic thrives by the Dream Travelers. Suspended will keep you on the edge of your seat, it will put you in suspense, with the mystery and dupery.

The characters each have a different ability to bring to the circus, each individual has a marvelous personality to them. There is no doubt that Sarah Noffke has put a lot of effort into this book and to the details to each character.

Uncaged Book Reviews:

The story features around the members of the vagabond circus and what happens when a new kid wants to join the show.

This was a great read it ends on a cliffhanger but at an exciting bit. I need to get book two to see what becomes of the Vagabond Circus. Reviewed by Jennifer
Full review at UncagedBooks.com

Suspended is the first book in the Vagabond Circus series.
The book centres on a circus made up of magical people called Dream Travellers. Each member of the Vagabond Circus has one or more special ability that enables them to astound audiences. The circus is in financial difficulty. In order to improve their situation the ringmaster takes on a new employee, Finlay.
Doing this without consulting the others causes some discord but Finlay’s abilities surprise them all and cause the others to think that their leader has made the right choice. Unfortunately Finlay has a hidden agenda that could destroy the Circus.
Sarah Noffke creates interesting characters and wonderful worlds. I did find this book a little hard to get into but once it got going I found it an enjoyable read.

This circus world is entertaining and magical. Enjoyed the characters and their abilities but the book moved slowly until almost the end.
*I received a copy of this book for free in the read and review program thanks to the group For Love of a Book*

Suspended had my attention from the first page. This circus is composed of Dream Travelers only. No animals, no clowns; a definite perk since I am not a fan of traditional circuses. Vagabond is a perfect name for this circus as well. The performers are stray and misfit Dream Travelers. They all have their gifts and they all have their flaws, but they know how to put on a show that leaves the audience in a happy trance. Then there is the underlying drama of the traveling circus and the circumstances that lead to some unfortunate events. They events are the precursors to the next installment of this trilogy (Paralyzed). Can't wait to have it in my hands. Sarah Noffke is my new favorite author.

Dr.Dave wants/needs the world to believe in magic, just a little bit each day keeps the evils of the world from taking over, but what happens when true evil shows up at the Big Top and the Dream waljers cant keep it at bay ? Read this amazingly magically intriguing story to find out !! 4⭐'s for a very unique take on the Circus and true magic . I received a gifted copy and am voluntarily choosing to leave an honest and unbiased review.

Suspended is a mysterious, fun, and easy to read story that is full of imaginative and vivid imagery. The Dream Travelers are an interesting and original concept, and the story’s many twists and turns keep you hooked until the last page.

This story reminded me of The Night Circus meets Alice in Wonderland. I enjoyed getting to know each of the unique characters and their equally unique magical abilities.

Noffke has written a delightfully whimsical book that is sure to delight fantasy and YA readers. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series!

A traveling circus, magic, and mystery. Each person in the circus has their own kind of magic to do tricks for the watchers that at first are skeptical though entertained many do not even realize how real it is. Incredible descriptions of characters, great writing and a story that will not only compel you to believe but may you think!

Sarah Noffke is a natural storyteller. She has a style which becomes familiar quickly and you feel drawn into the story. The characters are not only interesting but well-developed and the storyline moves smoothly. The 4-star rating is mainly due to the cliffhanger ending (never did like those things). Noffke is definitely worth reading, even with the ending. You will not regret reading this book.

This author's writing just gets better and better. Vagabond Circus takes you into a world of dream travelers who are also circus performers. The ringmaster loves and cares for all of the circus folk, but trouble is in the works. A new dream traveler arrives and all kinds of things start to change really fast. Can't wait for Volume 2 Paralyzed!

Uncaged Book Reviews:

The story features around the members of the vagabond circus and what happens when a new kid wants to join the show.

This was a great read it ends on a cliffhanger but at an exciting bit. I need to get book two to see what becomes of the Vagabond Circus. Reviewed by Jennifer
Full review at UncagedBooks.com

Suspended is the first book in the Vagabond Circus series.
The book centres on a circus made up of magical people called Dream Travellers. Each member of the Vagabond Circus has one or more special ability that enables them to astound audiences. The circus is in financial difficulty. In order to improve their situation the ringmaster takes on a new employee, Finlay.
Doing this without consulting the others causes some discord but Finlay’s abilities surprise them all and cause the others to think that their leader has made the right choice. Unfortunately Finlay has a hidden agenda that could destroy the Circus.
Sarah Noffke creates interesting characters and wonderful worlds. I did find this book a little hard to get into but once it got going I found it an enjoyable read.

This circus world is entertaining and magical. Enjoyed the characters and their abilities but the book moved slowly until almost the end.
*I received a copy of this book for free in the read and review program thanks to the group For Love of a Book*

Suspended had my attention from the first page. This circus is composed of Dream Travelers only. No animals, no clowns; a definite perk since I am not a fan of traditional circuses. Vagabond is a perfect name for this circus as well. The performers are stray and misfit Dream Travelers. They all have their gifts and they all have their flaws, but they know how to put on a show that leaves the audience in a happy trance. Then there is the underlying drama of the traveling circus and the circumstances that lead to some unfortunate events. They events are the precursors to the next installment of this trilogy (Paralyzed). Can't wait to have it in my hands. Sarah Noffke is my new favorite author.

This is a story about Vagabond Circus - what a wonderful name for a circus. It is full of mystery with each character being unique and very believable. The ringmaster is quite an intriguing person who wants everyone to believe in magic. Finley the latest character to join the circus is very interesting and the relationship between him and Zuma I really enjoyed.
Once started I found it very difficult to put this book down. I was totally fascinated and excited by it. I don’t want to spoil it for anyone by going into more detail.
My thanks to Sarah Noffke for giving me the opportunity to read this wonderful novel.

Dr.Dave wants/needs the world to believe in magic, just a little bit each day keeps the evils of the world from taking over, but what happens when true evil shows up at the Big Top and the Dream waljers cant keep it at bay ? Read this amazingly magically intriguing story to find out !! 4⭐'s for a very unique take on the Circus and true magic . I received a gifted copy and am voluntarily choosing to leave an honest and unbiased review.

Suspended is a mysterious, fun, and easy to read story that is full of imaginative and vivid imagery. The Dream Travelers are an interesting and original concept, and the story’s many twists and turns keep you hooked until the last page.

This story reminded me of The Night Circus meets Alice in Wonderland. I enjoyed getting to know each of the unique characters and their equally unique magical abilities.

Noffke has written a delightfully whimsical book that is sure to delight fantasy and YA readers. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series!

A traveling circus, magic, and mystery. Each person in the circus has their own kind of magic to do tricks for the watchers that at first are skeptical though entertained many do not even realize how real it is. Incredible descriptions of characters, great writing and a story that will not only compel you to believe but may you think!

Sarah Noffke is a natural storyteller. She has a style which becomes familiar quickly and you feel drawn into the story. The characters are not only interesting but well-developed and the storyline moves smoothly. The 4-star rating is mainly due to the cliffhanger ending (never did like those things). Noffke is definitely worth reading, even with the ending. You will not regret reading this book.

An interesting take on the usual paranormal series.
This book is all about the interaction between the characters rather than loads of action. However this doesn't make it boring, it is more of a drama than anything else.

The ending makes you want to continue on and read the 2nd book (which I am doing now).

This author's writing just gets better and better. Vagabond Circus takes you into a world of dream travelers who are also circus performers. The ringmaster loves and cares for all of the circus folk, but trouble is in the works. A new dream traveler arrives and all kinds of things start to change really fast. Can't wait for Volume 2 Paralyzed!

Loved the storyline. Absolutely loved Dr.Dave and understand his challenges of wanting people to believe in magic but not that he thinks they would not be frightened by it. This story is a wild paranormal ride with a cliffhanger ending, I can't wait to read book 2.

Sarah Noffke has done it again with this amazingly written book. She knows how to pull her readers into her books and leaving them wanting more. I highly recommend her books to all readers. I'm so glad I found her books and will continue to read them as long as she writes them. And promote her any way I can. Sarah is so talented I'm amazed at every turn.

What a magnificent read! The author has done it again. I was enthralled, wishing the whole time I could actually go and see this circus! It's magical, suspenseful, daring and very creative. I'm definitely looking forward to book 2! Bravo!!

I enjoyed this book and was disappointed when it ended. It was an engaging story and there was just enough information about each character without going too much in depth as to be distracting. I look forward to reading more from this author.

I have just finished reading this first instalment of the Vagabond Circus and couldn't put it down. It's a wonderful story drawing you into the intrigue, finding wrong answers and gradually finding out what is going on, with a love story beginning, although not a happy ending. Can't wait to read the others in the series.

I absolutely loved this book. It pulled me in from the very beginning. The wonder and magic keep me on the edge of my seat, just waiting for what was coming up next. I can't wait to read the next book!