The Box Jumper is a horror novella from Lisa Mannetti.
In this wonderfully disturbing novella, we meet Leona Derwatt, Houdini's assistant on and off stage, and one of his mistresses. Houdini not only takes her into his confidence, teaching her the intricacies of his magic, but teams with her as they confront and expose fraudulent psychics and mediums of their day. The tension in the story involves Houdini's conflicts with fake mediums (who may have been complicit in his death) and Leona's love for him and her troubled life after Houdini’s death. Is Leona actually visited by Houdini's spirit ... or is there something more dark and sinister?
My favorite thing about The Box Jumper is Lisa Mannetti's writing. I'm thinking this must be the first thing I've read from Lisa Mannetti because I would surely remember her writing.
The Box Jumper is a work of fiction, but it is based around the life of Harry Houdini. All of the "facts" about Houdini are fascinating so I'm anxious to do some more reading about his life.
The Box Jumper is told through the viewpoint of Houdini's assistant Leona. I don't want to say much about her or the story as it is a novella length book, but the progression of Leona is skillfully handled. I look forward to checking out more of Mannetti's work.
6/10: Good Read
Review copy provided by publisher
Hmm, interesting. I just saw a movie on Houdini. I like fictional takes on historical people. Facts with fun. Add in good writing and this one sounds great.
ReplyDeleteJenny, The Box Jumper might be a really great book for you.
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad to hear you liked this one. I downloaded it earlier this week but haven't read it just yet - maybe this afternoon since it's short. I have actually read Mannetti before, though. Her book THE GENTLING BOX is was quite good.
ReplyDeleteBecky, I'm so glad you downloaded this one since you love historical fiction and horror. I hope you love it! I've heard great things about The Gentling Box. I think I may actually have it on my Kindle already. You know how that goes. :)
ReplyDeleteIf you've never read anything written by Lisa Mannetti, you must change that. The Box Jumper is a great start. Mannetti delivers a beautiful story about the famous magician, Harry Houdini. Although a work of fiction, this book reflects a great deal of research into Houdini's life and career. For aficionados of magic, fans of dark literature, and anyone who claims to be a fan of spooky, horror fiction, The Box Jumper pleases. Fascinating from the first page, The Box Jumper will take you directly into the world of Harry Houdini, and you will come out on the other side knowing more and feeling like you've just been on a journey of epic proportions.
ReplyDeleteJasmine
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