The Conjurer's Wife: A Short Story

4.1 4.1 out of 5 stars | 1,514 ratings

Price: 1.99

Last update: 12-25-2024


About this item

In nineteenth-century Venice, a young woman’s marriage to an illusionist hides secrets that go deeper than his spectacular acts. The stage is set for transformation in a mesmerizing short story by the New York Times bestselling author of The Lost Apothecary.

In 1820s Venice, world-renowned magician Oscar Van Hoff confounds sold-out crowds with his astounding manifestations. Even his beautiful wife and assistant, Olivia, is mystified. Her job is to smile and recite her lines—onstage and in society. But the thankless routine is bringing out her rebellious side. Then, on the eve of what promises to be Oscar’s greatest performance yet, Olivia uncovers a secret with the power to shatter all her husband’s illusions. Now the finale belongs to her.


From the Publisher

The finale belongs to her

Top reviews from the United States

Stephen in PA
5.0 out of 5 stars Enjoyable and well paced short story
Reviewed in the United States on December 3, 2024
An enjoyable and easy read that was both well paced and beautifully written. A satisfying twist in Oscar and Olivia's magic show and life.
A Lady
4.0 out of 5 stars THE CONJURER'S WIFE: A Short Story of Historical Fiction by Sarah Penner
Reviewed in the United States on December 5, 2024
THE CONJURER'S WIFE is a short story (32 actual pages - starts on page 4 and ends on 36) that even taking my time only took me about 30-40 minutes to complete. It's set just days before the Christmas of 1821 in Venice, Italy. The entire tale takes place in about 24 hours and regardless of the minimal page count I still thought it was a truly unique and spellbinding read. From what I can tell it also appears to be a sort of prequel to Penner's upcoming novel THE AMALFI CURSE.

I'm not much into illusionists and have never been to a magic show but I found the topic very interesting. I have to admit however that the magician's secret was quite shocking and not at all believable. Still, I let that slide since this is fiction and we're dealing with the unexplainable here anyway. Overall I loved that Olivia got the last word (so to speak) and only wish the ending wasn't so rushed. That's typical of short stories though and so no surprise.

I also loved the pageantry and imagery which seemed to come alive in front of my eyes. I felt like I could practically see the gaslights and dress of a bygone era. For such a brief tale I think Ms. Penner did a pretty good job. You will definitely have to suspend belief a bit but for all that it was very well written as well as engaging. Even the ending was satisfying although a little more insight into the future would have been nice. All in all its was a quick and enjoyable story though and one I'm glad I read... =)
Tasha
3.0 out of 5 stars I love the fox
Reviewed in the United States on December 4, 2024
This was a cute story with a lot of potential. I loved how it was simple and to the point but I also long for more.
Tabatha
5.0 out of 5 stars loved it!
Reviewed in the United States on December 7, 2024
This was a nice quick read! Magical and powerful, a tale of a woman that is the assistant to her magician husband. Her thankless position causes her to be a bit rebellious, and while questioning her place, she uncovers dark secrets that change her world.

Cozy and well written!
Cara F
4.0 out of 5 stars Cute and well paced
Reviewed in the United States on December 8, 2024
This was a great little short story. It was entertaining and very well written. I enjoyed the characters and I really didn’t see that ending (twist) coming. Really enjoyed this one.
Hanna
5.0 out of 5 stars a shorty
Reviewed in the United States on December 3, 2024
This story was wonderful. It was well paced and told wonderfully.this story was fast paced but also perfectly timed. Loved the ending of this book gives you a cliffhanger for sure, but it also allows the ability to imagine what it could turn into.
Wryter
4.0 out of 5 stars Interesting
Reviewed in the United States on December 9, 2024
I normally like short stories that have a big twist at the end. His story didn’t have that. It was well written, the characters were interesting, and the story unusual. There were twists throughout the story, but not any that I felt were spectacular. This is worth a read, though.
Khasterok
5.0 out of 5 stars Stunning
Reviewed in the United States on December 4, 2024
I had no idea what to expect-- this gorgeous story surprised me at every turn.

It left me wanting more-- the mark of a terrific writer and a great story.

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