Library Journal
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The story of aerialist Lillian Leitzel, known as "Leitzel, Queen of the Air," and Alfredo Codona, a member of the Flying Codonas, is a true account of the biggest stars ever to appear with the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. They were household names during the early part of the 20th century-the Brad and Angelina of the circus world. Born poor, Leitzel became "Queen of the Circus" and acted like one throughout her life. She had many loves but the greatest was Alfredo, a trapeze flyer, the only one who could perform the Triple: three somersaults in midair. Jensen follows their lives in parallel until their fateful meeting, their eventual marriage, and tragic ends. Though a dramatic story that would interest readers who liked Water for Elephants, it is hindered by the florid prose (e.g., "showgirls of ripened figures" and "he clamped his furry mouth over her lips") and the unfortunate habit of putting words and thoughts in the mouths and heads of people long dead. Verdict More like a novel than a well-researched work of nonfiction, this engaging book will appeal to readers who like books with circus themes.-Rosellen Brewer, Sno-Isle Libs., Marysville, WA (c) Copyright 2013. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

Kirkus
Copyright © Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.

A story of circus fame and all its accompanying troubles from the years when the "greatest show on Earth" was at its glamorous best. Art dealer and former Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel art critic Jensen (The Lives and Loves of Daisy and Violet Hilton: A True Story of Conjoined Twins, 2006, etc.) sets out to explain why his subject, Lillian Leitzel (18911931), was so beloved in her time. Born into a circus family and trained from an early age on the trapeze and rings, her talent was clearly special. She moved easily from a family show to her own success and fame, and Jensen documents the entire road. The author provides an adequate biography, but he doesn't make it obvious why readers today should care. His initial descriptions of her aerial abilities and parentage are arresting, but as the narrative progresses, it starts to feel stale. Leitzel's signature move may have been amazing to behold, but words can only go so far in describing the visual wonder. Despite Jensen's constant reminders about her salary, her living arrangements and her diva style, it is easy to overlook why she was crowned as performing royalty. Interwoven with Leitzel's take of fame is the love story between Leitzel and Alfredo Codona, a trapeze artist. Fraught with the obstacles of chaperones, spouses and danger, the story of the affair is full of intrigue. The community, dedication and the transient nature of the circus are a fantastic backdrop for the action, but those looking for a broader exploration of the entire community should look elsewhere. This book revolves around Leitzel and Alfredo. Despite the inherent tension in the world of the circus and the whiff of glamour surrounding the circus queen, her story will appeal mostly to true circus enthusiasts.]] Copyright Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.

Publishers Weekly
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Jensen, a former art critic, longtime art dealer, and perennial fan of the weird (his last book was The Lives and Loves of Daisy and Violet Hilton: A True Story of Conjoined Twins), explores the lives, love, and tragic ends of two superstars of the Big Top's golden age, aerialist Lillian Leitzel and flyer Alfredo Codona. Both were born into the circus-Leitzel's mother was a famed performer in Eastern Europe, and Alfredo's family ran Mexico's Gran Circo Codona. Leitzel began training on the Roman rings as a young child and made her professional debut in 1902 at just 12 years old-the same age as her mother when Leitzel was born. She became an instant star. She was performing with the legendary Barnum & Bailey Circus in Chicago less than 10 years later when Alfredo first set eyes on her and fell madly in love. Alfredo was determined to win the tiny trapeze artist and master the elusive and deadly Triple, consisting of three consecutive midair somersaults; a decade later he'd perfected the stunt, and shortly thereafter he and Leitzel, a fiery couple, were wed. What follows is a shocking and heartbreaking denouement. Artfully choreographed, this act is sure to draw big audiences. 27 b&w photos. Agent: Eileen Cope, Trident Media Group. (June) (c) Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved.