Book Review: The Adventures of Phyllo Cane series by Sharn W. Hutton

Phyllo Cane and the Circus of Wonder (Book 1)

When Phyllo accidentally burns down the big top, he can forget his dream of being a magical confectioner, it’s the Circuit for him instead. Now he must face a daunting string of magical apprenticeships to find his talent and prove his worth. Straight in at the deep end, his first is with the flyers of the high trapeze.

Training is knee-trembling and mind-bogglingly dangerous, but when Phyllo finds himself in another near-fatal disaster, he realises it’s not just his nerves that are holding him back. Other acts crumble. Masked men stalk the cast. Something dark and evil conspires against them all and, Phyllo discovers, if the Circus of Wonder is to survive, he must solve the problems of the past… or lose the magic forever.

Phyllo Cane and the Magical Menagerie (Book 2)

Magically magnificent, fantastic and ferocious... at least, that’s what you’d expect of a fire-breathing dragon.

But what if yours won’t come out of its pen to perform? What if the Ringmaster thinks it’s worth more in the apothecary chop-shop than as part of the troupe?

The Beast Whisperer of the Circus of Wonder must bring her beloved dragon back up to its performing peak fast, if she’s to save it, and she thinks she knows what to do.

The unhappy creature needs a mate, but the male sand dragon is a rare beast indeed, and she’ll never be able to catch one alone.

Time for Phyllo to become the Beast Whisperer’s apprentice…

GENRE: Middle Grade / Young Adult Fantasy

PURCHASE LINKS: Amazon

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Sharn W. Hutton is the author of The Adventures of Phyllo Cane series, the first of which, Phyllo Cane and the Circus of Wonder, was hailed by the judging panel of The Booklife Prize to be ‘dizzyingly bewitching, articulate and intoxicating.’

Prior to this foray into the realms of upper middle grade/YA magical fantasy, Sharn wrote cozy mystery based around the irrepressible Angel Drake, in Angel Drake is Going Solo and the short story, Nothing Ventured. Her first novel, It’s Killing Jerry, was a standalone mystery.

Based in Bushey, Hertfordshire, Sharn works from home in the tiny office at the back of the house, which makes up for what it lacks in size and warmth with a rather nice view of the garden. When she isn’t hitting the keyboard (laptop, not piano) she does enjoy a trip to the theatre or cinema and pretends to use the very expensive exercise machine rusting in the summerhouse.

One day she plans to also learn how to play the piano.

Review & Recommended Listening

Phyllo Cane and the Circus of Wonder (Book 1)

I knew I was in for a treat the moment I unboxed my book mail:

I usually get my books via Book Depository, so my jaw dropped when I saw this! And as you can see pictured up on this post's header, it even came with popcorn and a cute little toy... which took me until book 2 to realize the significance, but hey.

Now I've not exactly read a lot of circus-themed books, but I love the musical film The Greatest Showman. So I came in expecting some of that magic, and the book did not disappoint! I loved seeing the circus through Phyllo's eyes — it's been his whole life, yet he's still full of awe and wonder. And deservingly so; with the author's boundless creativity, there's a lot to enjoy in what (by now) has become a "common" setting. Baking with emotions? Collapsing and teleporting circus tents? A somewhat eccentric family of trapeze artists and a clumsy boy who has to learn how to fly? If you thought you knew what a magical circus is like, prepare to be blown away!

My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Recommended Listening: As I mentioned in my open call for books to review, I’ll now be adding a song to my reviews! It’ll be one that either sums up the book for me, what I’d imagine in a trailer were it a movie, something that I associate with the story or one of the characters for whatever reason… or maybe even an original inspired by it 😉

I mean, is anyone surprised? 😂

Phyllo Cane and the Magical Menagerie (Book 2)

I read The Circus of Wonder right before starting this one, which helped as it's a direct sequel, although you don't really have to worry as there are explanations and additional information whenever previous events, details or characters are brought up. But do get both if you're able; they're both super fun and really easy to read, and you'll have a greater appreciation for Phyllo and what he's going through! The magical circus setting continues to be utterly charming and full of unexpected adventures and twists.

I really admire the author's creativity, because once again we're treated to unique takes on previously done themes and tropes. Beast whispering is not just talking to animals, and Phyllo's newfound talent in that area is actually quite a wonder to behold! We get a whole new lore about dragons, and the mythology and ancient cultures geek that I am, I loved the references to Egypt and such. And we're introduced to so many fascinating new creatures... there's a whole range from forest spirits to metal creations. This series continues to delight and I'm so ready for book 3!

My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Recommended Listening: When I started reading book 2 I initially got How to Train Your Dragon vibes, but by the end I completely agree with the author that this would be fitting for the finale!