Book Review | The Weight of Air

Bethany House, Books Review, Historical Fiction, Novels, Romance, Writing Spot

Today’s book review features

The Weight of Air by Kimberly Duffy.

About the Book

In 1911, Mabel MacGinnis is Europe’s strongest woman and has performed beside her father in the Manzo Brothers Circus her entire life. But at his unexpected death, she loses everything she’s ever known and sets off in the company of acrobat Jake Cunningham for America in hope of finding the mother she’s just discovered is still alive.

Isabella Moreau, the nation’s most feted aerialist, has given everything to the circus. But age and injury now threaten her security, and Isabella, stalked by old fears, makes a choice that risks everything. When her daughter Mabel appears alongside the man who never wanted to see Isabella again, Isabella is forced to face the truth of where, and in what, she derives her worth.

In this evocative novel from Kimberly Duffy, the meaning of strength takes center stage as the lives of three circus performers become entangled beneath the glittering lights and flying trapeze of Madison Square Garden.

From Goodreads

Author Information

Discover more about Kimberly Duffy at: kimberlyduffy.com.

Danielle’s Review

I received a complimentary copy of this book.
I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with FTC guidelines.


The Weight of Air by Kimberly Duffy takes us to 1911 and the circus.

The setting alone had me wanting to read this book, plus I have enjoyed the earlier books by this author. But, wow!

This is the type of story that grabs a person and won’t let go. Maybe because I’ve had my own battle with a PMAD (postpartum mood and anxiety disorder), though not the one displayed in the book. I’ll admit that didn’t make this an easy read, but I loved it nonetheless.

I’m so grateful the author decided to tackle such a topic in this story. It isn’t talked about enough and when 1-in-5 women battle a PMAD, there are many, many people facing these struggles. If you’re one of those, please know you’re not alone. One resource I have found helpful is: postpartum.net.

While that is a significant part of the story, there is so much more. The description of the circus, a female strongman, a male arealist, and romance with a bit higher heat level than I’m usually used to. Truly, this was a story of surprise. I can’t say what I was expecting, but this was more in every good way.

If you enjoy historical romance, mother-daughter relationships, and a fascination with the circus, then this story is for you!

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